Surface cleaning device

Abstract

Surface cleaning device (1) for wet cleaning a surface (S, S'), comprising a tool device (300) with at least one tool (301) which is driven by means of at least one drive (302) to perform a tool movement to act on the surface (S, S'), wherein the tool arrangement (300) comprises at least two disc tools (305, 305', 305'') which are each driven in a rotary direction about an axis of rotation (D', D'') and in opposite directions to each other, wherein the two disc tools (305', 305'') generate a propulsive force (V) along a propulsive direction (R), wherein the propulsive force (V) assists or causes a movement of the surface cleaning device (1) during wet cleaning of the surface (S, S'), and wherein, to generate the thrust force (V), the disc tools (305', 305'') are each subjected to an axial force (A) that is unevenly distributed and / or locally concentrated in the circumferential direction of the respective disc tool (305', 305'').

Description

[0001] The invention relates to improvements in the field of wet cleaning of surfaces, in particular floor surfaces, for example floor surfaces in buildings.

[0002] Specifically, the invention relates to a surface cleaning device for wet cleaning a surface.

[0003] From DE 10 2013 215 198 A1, a surface cleaning device is known, comprising a guide section, a base section, a tool assembly, a fluid dispensing unit, and a fluid intake. The known surface cleaning device is designed for wet cleaning of floor surfaces and is configured as a scrubber-dryer. The known surface cleaning device has a fresh water tank, which is fluid-conductingly connected to the fluid dispensing unit, and a dirty water tank, which is connected to the fluid intake. The fresh water tank and the dirty water tank, and thus also the fluid dispensing unit and the fluid intake, are fluidically separated from each other. During wet cleaning with the known surface cleaning device, fresh water is dispensed from the fresh water tank onto the surface to be cleaned via the fluid dispensing unit. The surface moistened with the dispensed fluid is then processed by means of the tool assembly, for example, to loosen dirt.The dispensed fluid, mixed with the dissolved dirt, is collected by the fluid intake, stored in the dirty water tank, and disposed of after wet cleaning. Besides the various advantages offered by this known surface cleaning device, particularly compared to a mop on the one hand and larger cleaning machines (ride-on machines) on the other, a disadvantage is that the separate fluid tanks of the known surface cleaning device naturally have a limited capacity. For example, if the fresh water is exhausted, the wet cleaning process must be interrupted to refill the fresh water tank. If the dirty water tank is full, the wet cleaning process must be interrupted to empty the dirty water tank.If a cleaning agent is used in the fresh water in addition to clean water, it is taken up with the wastewater into the wastewater tank and disposed of, even though the cleaning agent's effectiveness is often not yet exhausted.

[0004] The object of the invention is to enable improved wet cleaning of surfaces. In particular, it aims to enable improved wet cleaning of floor surfaces, especially floor surfaces in buildings.

[0005] This problem is solved by providing a surface cleaning device with the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims. The wording of the claims is incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] This problem is further solved by providing a surface cleaning device with the features of claim 11. This surface cleaning device according to the invention is designed for wet cleaning a surface and comprises an optional guide element, an optional base element, a tool assembly, a fluid discharge, a fluid intake, a fluid path, and a conveying device. The surface to be cleaned can, in principle, be horizontal, vertical, or otherwise oriented. The surface cleaning device according to the invention is particularly advantageous for wet cleaning floor surfaces, such as floors in buildings, which can be, in particular, hard floors or carpets. The guide element extends longitudinally between a proximal end and a distal end and is designed for manually guiding the surface cleaning device over the surface to be cleaned.The base is connected to the distal end of the guide section. The tool assembly is designed to act on the surface to be cleaned. The fluid dispensing unit is designed to release fluid onto the surface to be cleaned. The fluid intake unit is designed to receive fluid from the surface that has been dispensed onto the surface. The fluid path connects the fluid intake unit to the fluid dispensing unit for the return of fluid received via the fluid intake unit. The conveying unit is designed to convey fluid along the fluid path. This allows fluid received from the surface via the fluid intake unit to be (re)dispensed onto the surface via the fluid dispensing unit.

[0007] The invention is based on the understanding that wet cleaning of surfaces does not necessarily have to be carried out with fresh water. Even contaminated water or water previously used for wet cleaning can be reused and / or repeatedly without practically impairing the cleaning result, or even with an improved cleaning result.

[0008] The invention offers numerous advantages, each of which, individually and in combination, allows for improved wet cleaning of surfaces: The invention reduces resource consumption and enables environmentally friendly wet cleaning. Fluid consumption is reduced by recirculating the fluid absorbed via the fluid intake and releasing it again via the fluid discharge. If a cleaning agent is added to the fluid, its consumption can also be reduced.

[0009] The invention allows for a compact and lightweight design of the surface cleaning device. According to the invention, a fluid tank for storing fluid is generally unnecessary. Specifically, separate fresh water and wastewater tanks are no longer required. The resulting compact design enables efficient and thorough wet cleaning by machine, even of smaller and / or hard-to-reach areas. The resulting lightweight design allows the surface cleaning device to be moved with reduced effort, which improves ergonomics and also allows for increased cleaning speed (area cleaned per unit of time).

[0010] The invention enables improved cleaning results at the same or even increased cleaning speed. It has been shown that the amount of fluid dispensed per unit of time (dispensing rate) significantly influences the cleaning result. Generally, the higher the dispensing rate, the better the cleaning result. With surface cleaning devices known from the prior art, which have a fresh water tank and a separate dirty water tank, the dispensing rate is inherently limited by the limited volume of fresh water available in the fresh water tank. The fluid recirculation system according to the invention eliminates this disadvantage, allowing (theoretically) arbitrarily high dispensing rates to be used.

[0011] The achievable cleaning speed is also increased by the fact that the disposal of collected fluid (dirty water) and the refilling of discharged fluid (fresh water) can be completely eliminated. In surface cleaning devices known from the prior art, which have a fresh water tank and a separate dirty water tank, disposal is achieved by emptying the dirty water tank or replacing it with an empty one. To refill the discharged fluid, the fresh water tank can be refilled or replaced with a full fresh water tank. The invention eliminates these steps. In practice, the fluid used will need to be replaced from time to time, but the intervals for such replacement will regularly be significantly longer than the intervals for refilling / emptying separate fluid tanks that are typical in the prior art.This saves time and further increases cleaning speed. It also offers ergonomic advantages for the user.

[0012] In comparison to surface cleaning devices known from the prior art, which are limited by separate fresh and dirty water tanks, the invention allows for improved cleaning performance, in particular a significantly increased area performance.

[0013] Furthermore, according to the invention, complex filter or treatment devices aimed at cleaning the absorbed fluid before re-distribution can generally be dispensed with. The implementation of the invention is therefore particularly simple and thus cost-effective, while simultaneously ensuring the most compact dimensions and low weight of the surface cleaning device.

[0014] The guide element, also known as the hand guide, serves to manually guide the surface cleaning device over the area to be cleaned. Preferably, the guide element has a handle at its proximal end. When the surface cleaning device is used as intended, the proximal end is generally facing the user, while the distal end faces away. The distal end is at least indirectly connected to the base. This connection can be detachable, permanent, rigid, and / or movable. The longitudinal extension of the guide element allows the user to maintain an upright posture while wet cleaning floors. The guide element is optional. In some embodiments of the invention, the surface cleaning device does not have a guide element.

[0015] During wet cleaning, the base section rests on or against the surface to be cleaned. In configurations with a guide section, the base section is connected to the distal end of the guide section. This connection can be permanent, detachable, rigid, and / or movable. The base section is optional. In some embodiments of the invention, the surface cleaning device does not have a base section.

[0016] The tool assembly is designed to act on the surface to be cleaned and / or to loosen dirt from the surface to be cleaned. The tool assembly is preferably designed to act mechanically on the surface so that the dirt is loosened mechanically, in particular abrasively. In a preferred embodiment, the tool assembly is a scouring device or a scrubbing device. In embodiments with a base, the tool assembly is arranged on the base. During wet cleaning, the tool assembly rests on or against the surface, at least in sections.

[0017] The fluid discharge and fluid intake are connected by means of a fluid path. A conveying device is provided for transporting the fluid along the fluid path. The discharged fluid binds and / or dissolves dirt present on the surface. It is understood that the fluid intake not only allows the intake of the discharged (uncontaminated) fluid, but is also designed to receive the dirt bound and / or dissolved in the fluid. In preferred embodiments, the surface cleaning device includes a separation device for separating the absorbed dirt from the fluid. By separating the dirt, the degree of contamination of the absorbed fluid is reduced, for example, by separating (retaining, collecting, filtering, and / or separating) undissolved and / or dissolved dirt particles, absorbed small parts, lint, hair, or the like before the fluid is discharged again.The problem according to the invention is also solved if the absorbed fluid is released back onto the surface to be cleaned without prior dirt separation. The fluid release can also be referred to as liquid discharge, the fluid absorption can also be referred to as liquid uptake, and the fluid path can also be referred to as liquid path. The terms "fluid" and "liquid" can be used interchangeably in this description.

[0018] The solution according to the invention is not limited to the wet cleaning of surfaces. In principle, its use in the wet treatment of surfaces, for example wet sanding, is also conceivable and possible.

[0019] In an embodiment of the invention, the fluid path comprises a fluid reservoir with a reservoir volume, a reservoir inlet, and a reservoir outlet. The reservoir inlet is fluidly connected to the fluid intake. The reservoir outlet is fluidly connected to the fluid discharge. The reservoir inlet and the reservoir outlet are fluidly connected to each other via the reservoir volume. The fluid reservoir serves as an intermediate storage for the fluid. In embodiments without a fluid reservoir, fluid discharge and fluid intake occur without intermediate storage, so that, in principle, continuous fluid intake and discharge must take place at essentially identical rates. The fluid reservoir enables the use of different rates. For example, more fluid can be absorbed than discharged per unit of time, or vice versa.The difference between the fluid delivered and received over a certain period is buffered or balanced by the fluid reservoir. The fluid reservoir can, in principle, have any design and properties suitable for the intended purpose. For example, the fluid reservoir can have one or more fluid tanks. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid reservoir can be formed by cross-sections and / or cavities of other components of the surface cleaning device, such as the guide section, the base section, and / or the tool assembly.

[0020] In one embodiment of the invention, the fluid reservoir is attached to the guide element. This allows the weight and dimensions of the base element to be kept low. Alternatively, the fluid reservoir is attached to the base element. This also allows the weight and dimensions of the guide element to be kept low. A further alternative is that the fluid reservoir is attached section by section to the guide element and section by section to the base element. This allows the weight and volume of the fluid reservoir to be distributed partly between the guide element and partly between the base element. Preferably, the fluid reservoir is provided in a removable manner. The removable design makes cleaning or replacement of the fluid reservoir particularly easy.

[0021] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid reservoir is a component of a carrying device, the carrying device being designed to be worn on the user's body. Wearing the fluid reservoir on the user's body eliminates the need to attach it to the guide and / or base section, thus preventing the fluid reservoir from increasing their dimensions and weight. The carrying device can be designed to be worn on the user's back, for example, as a backpack, a hip belt, or the like. In one embodiment, the fluid reservoir forms the aforementioned component of the carrying device and is also designed for optional attachment to the base section and / or the guide section. Depending on the cleaning task, the user can decide how the fluid reservoir should be attached / carried.When cleaning horizontal surfaces, attaching the fluid reservoir to the base and / or guide section can be advantageous, as the weight of the reservoir increases the pressure of the cleaning tool against the horizontal surface. When cleaning inclined, especially vertical, surfaces, carrying the fluid reservoir on the user's body can be advantageous, as the weight of the guide section and / or base section is not increased by the fluid reservoir, allowing for easier manual guidance of the cleaning device along the inclined, especially vertical, surface.

[0022] In a further embodiment of the invention, the reservoir volume is a maximum of 10 liters, preferably a maximum of 8 liters, preferably a maximum of 6 liters, preferably a maximum of 5 liters, preferably a maximum of 4 liters, preferably a maximum of 3 liters, preferably a maximum of 2 liters, and most preferably between 0.5 liters and 2.0 liters. The size of the reservoir volume determines the available amount of fluid. A larger amount of fluid allows for the absorption of a larger amount of dirt, but at the same time results in a relatively high weight. By limiting the reservoir volume to a maximum of 10 liters or one of the aforementioned maximum values, the dimensions of the fluid reservoir can be kept compact. The weight of the reservoir volume is then also relatively low when full and can be easily moved by a user. A reservoir volume between 0.5 liters and 2.0 liters has proven to be particularly advantageous in this regard.Firstly, this results in particularly compact dimensions and a very low weight. Secondly, a reservoir volume between 0.5 and 2.0 liters still allows for a sufficient amount of fluid to dissolve and / or bind dirt generated during wet cleaning. With a reservoir volume of less than 0.5 liters, the fluid will regularly become heavily contaminated after only a short time during wet cleaning. With a reservoir volume of more than 2.0 liters, the weight becomes noticeable and cannot be easily moved and / or carried by all potential users under all circumstances. The range of 0.5 to 2 liters therefore represents an optimum. In practice, the reservoir volume of the surface cleaning device will not usually be completely filled with the absorbed / dispensed liquid.It has been shown that a fill level and / or liquid level between 30% and 60%, preferably between 40% and 55%, particularly preferably 50% of the reservoir volume is particularly advantageous.

[0023] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid reservoir is made at least partially of a transparent material. This allows the user to easily assess the degree of fluid contamination from the outside without opening the reservoir. Preferably, the fluid reservoir is made at least predominantly of the transparent material. More preferably, the fluid reservoir is made entirely of the transparent material. A transparent plastic material is preferred. Alternatively, at least partial manufacturing from shatterproof glass is conceivable and feasible.

[0024] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid reservoir comprises at least one fluid tank. Preferably, the fluid reservoir comprises a single fluid tank. In this embodiment, the reservoir volume is the tank volume of the fluid tank. The reservoir inlet is the tank inlet of the fluid tank, and the reservoir outlet is the tank outlet of the fluid tank. The fluid tank can, in principle, have any design suitable for the present purpose.

[0025] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank, in particular its tank volume and / or a tank shell forming the tank volume, is designed in the form of a longitudinally elongated hollow cylinder. Preferably, a design in the form of a tube is provided. The longitudinally elongated hollow cylindrical design of the fluid tank offers particular advantages when the fluid tank is designed for attachment to the longitudinally elongated guide element or for carrying on the user's body. When attached to the guide element, the longitudinally elongated hollow cylindrical design allows for compact dimensions and an advantageous weight distribution. The same applies when the longitudinally elongated hollow cylindrical fluid tank is carried on the user's body. The longitudinally elongated hollow cylinder has a different cross-sectional shape depending on the embodiment. In principle, the hollow cylinder can have a square, rounded, oval, or circular cross-section.Furthermore, it is understood that the cross-section of the hollow cylinder can vary along its longitudinal axis. The aforementioned design as a tube or pipe is particularly preferred. Tubes are readily available on the market in various diameters, wall thicknesses, and other properties, and / or can be manufactured inexpensively. This allows for particularly simple production of the fluid tank or tank shell. In the case of a hollow cylindrical, especially tubular, design of the tank shell, the fluid tank preferably has a tank cap or other closures for sealing the end face of the tank shell. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid tank is made of plastic. A hollow cylindrical, especially tubular, design in combination with plastic construction is particularly advantageous.

[0026] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank, in particular its tank volume and / or the tank shell forming the tank volume, comprises several parts that are fluid-tightly joined together along a longitudinal axis of the fluid tank. Such a multi-part design achieves a modular structure of the fluid tank, especially the tank shell. In a preferred embodiment, the tank shell consists of these several parts. When assembled, the several parts enclose the tank volume. In a preferred embodiment, each of the several parts is a hollow cylinder section, specifically a pipe section. In one embodiment, the several parts are identical. In another embodiment, the several parts differ with respect to at least one property, for example, the enclosed tank volume, diameter, length, or the like.In a preferred embodiment, the multiple parts are fluid-tightly connected along the longitudinal axis. In this case, immediately adjacent parts are connected by means of a plug connection, which in a particularly preferred embodiment is a bayonet connection or bayonet lock. However, other joining methods are also conceivable instead of such a plug connection. For example, the multiple parts can be screwed together or snapped into place. Due to the modular design of the fluid tank, especially the tank shell, the tank volume can be easily adjusted. To reduce the tank volume, fewer parts can be used. To increase the tank volume, a larger number of parts can be used.

[0027] In a further embodiment of the invention, the several parts are detachably joined, in particular by being plugged together. This detachable assembly allows the user to easily adjust the tank volume. To increase the tank volume, another part can be inserted. To decrease the tank volume, one or more parts can be removed. Furthermore, the detachable connection of the parts allows for particularly easy cleaning of the fluid tank and any equipment located within the tank.

[0028] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid path includes a blocking device. The blocking device serves to selectively interrupt the fluid return. The blocking device can be switched between an enabled state and a blocked state. In the enabled state, the fluid path between the fluid intake and the fluid discharge remains open for fluid return. In the blocked state, the fluid path between the fluid intake and the fluid discharge is blocked by the blocking device. The blocking device can, in principle, have any design suitable for the present purpose. For example, the blocking device can include or be a fluid control valve, in particular a shut-off valve, a switching valve, or the like.

[0029] In a further embodiment of the invention, the reservoir volume, when blocked, is divided into a fluid discharge reservoir volume and a fluid intake reservoir volume by means of the blocking device, thus interrupting fluid return. The fluid discharge reservoir volume has the reservoir outlet and is separated from the reservoir inlet by means of the blocking device. The fluid intake reservoir volume has the reservoir inlet and is separated from the reservoir outlet by means of the blocking device. In the unblocked state, the subdivision of the reservoir volume by means of the blocking device is lifted, so that fluid return is possible. By selectively subdividing the reservoir volume, the user can choose whether the received fluid should be returned to the fluid discharge or instead stored in the fluid intake reservoir volume for later disposal.The shut-off device allows the surface cleaning unit to be operated with fluid recirculation or conventionally without fluid recirculation, depending on the application. It is also conceivable and possible to initially clean without fluid recirculation. If the user finds that a satisfactory cleaning result has not been achieved after emptying the fluid dispensing reservoir, subsequent cleaning with fluid recirculation can be performed. A reverse operation is also possible: cleaning is performed first with fluid recirculation, followed by emptying the reservoir, refilling it with fresh fluid, and finally cleaning without fluid recirculation. In configurations with multiple fluid tanks, the shut-off device can be positioned and / or designed between adjacent fluid tanks with respect to the fluid flow direction.In designs with a multi-part tank shell, the locking device can be arranged and / or formed between adjacent parts. For example, the locking device can be a fluid-tight locking element that can be inserted between adjacent parts of the tank shell or introduced into the tank volume in some other way.

[0030] In a further embodiment of the invention, the locking device is integrated into the reservoir volume, in particular the tank volume of the fluid tank. By integrating the locking device into the reservoir volume, for example the tank volume, the locking device is protected from external influences and the external dimensions of the surface cleaning device are not increased.

[0031] In a further embodiment of the invention, the locking device comprises a fluid control element, in particular a switching valve or the like. The fluid control element can be actuated to switch between the enabled state and the locked state. In one embodiment, manual actuation is provided. In another embodiment, automatic actuation is provided, for example by means of an actuator, motor, flowing fluid, or the like. In a further embodiment, the fluid control element can be electrically controlled and / or actuated to switch between the enabled state and the disconnected state.

[0032] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid path includes a separation device designed to remove dirt from the fluid flowing along the fluid path. The separation device allows dirt to be removed from the collected fluid, thus preventing excessive dirt accumulation in the fluid and / or fluid path. By removing dirt, the degree of contamination of the collected fluid is reduced, for example, by removing (retaining, collecting, filtering, and / or separating) undissolved and / or dissolved dirt particles, small parts, lint, hair, or the like before the fluid is released again. Dirt removal by means of the separation device enables the available fluid quantity to be used for longer cleaning times and / or larger cleaning areas without impairing the cleaning results.The separation device can have any design suitable for the intended purpose. In principle, the separation device can be arranged at one or more points along the fluid path between the fluid intake and the fluid discharge.

[0033] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separation device comprises at least one filter device. Alternatively, the separation device is a filter device. The filter device is configured to filter dirt from fluid flowing along the fluid path. The filter device can, in principle, be arranged at one or more points along the fluid path between the fluid intake and the fluid discharge.

[0034] In a further embodiment of the invention, the filter device comprises at least one sieve filter with a mesh size between 0.06 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably between 0.09 mm and 0.3 mm, and particularly preferably between 0.125 mm and 0.25 mm. In one embodiment, the filter device comprises several sieve filters. The multiple sieve filters can be arranged fluid-conducting in series or parallel to one another. The multiple sieve filters can have identical or different mesh sizes. Alternatively, the mesh size can be described as being between mesh (US) 230 and mesh (US) 25, preferably between mesh (US) 170 and mesh (US) 50, and particularly preferably between mesh (US) 120 and mesh (US) 60. The aforementioned ranges of values ​​for the mesh size of the at least one sieve filter have proven to be particularly advantageous.In a preferred embodiment, the filter device comprises a first screen filter and a second screen filter, wherein the first and second screen filters are connected in series, with the first screen filter being arranged upstream of the second screen filter with respect to the fluid flow direction. Preferably, the first screen filter has a first mesh size, and the second screen filter has a different second mesh size. Particularly preferably, the first mesh size is larger than the second mesh size. The respective mesh size is decisive for the size of the filterable dirt particles. With a mesh size of, for example, 0.7 mm, dirt particles with a size of 0.7 mm or larger are retained by the mesh of the screen filter and thus filtered. Smaller dirt particles with a size of less than 0.7 mm can pass through the mesh and are not filtered.The filter device comprises at least one filter unit, which need not necessarily be a sieve filter. Alternatively or additionally to the sieve filter, the filter device may comprise at least one foam filter or the like. The filter device, and in particular its at least one filter unit, is preferably designed such that dirt particles, small parts, hair, lint, or the like of a size suitable for the present cleaning task can be filtered out of the fluid. In particular, clogging of the fluid path should be avoided.

[0035] In a further embodiment of the invention, the filter device includes a filter cleaning device designed to clean the filter device. The filter cleaning device allows the filter device to be freed from filtered dirt.

[0036] This prevents the filter from becoming clogged, for example, by the filter cleaning device wiping and / or rinsing away dirt from the filter. The filter cleaning device can, in principle, have any design suitable for the intended purpose. In one embodiment, the filter cleaning device is designed for manual operation. In another embodiment, the filter cleaning device cleans the filter automatically without user intervention.

[0037] In a further embodiment of the invention, the filter cleaning device comprises a cleaning element movable relative to the filter device and a movement mechanism for moving the cleaning element. In one embodiment, the cleaning element is rotatably movable. In another embodiment, the cleaning element is translationally movable. A combined translational and rotational movement of the cleaning element is also conceivable and possible. The movable cleaning element allows dirt to be removed from the filter device. The movement mechanism serves to move the cleaning element and can, in principle, have any design suitable for the present purpose.

[0038] In a further embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism is configured for manual operation by a user. This eliminates the need for a separate drive to power the cleaning element. In one embodiment, the movement mechanism is a rotary mechanism for transmitting a rotary motion and / or torque applied by the user to the cleaning element. In a further embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism is a translational mechanism for transmitting a translational motion and / or force generated by the user to the cleaning element.

[0039] In a further embodiment of the invention, the motion mechanism is configured for automatic drive by means of flowing fluid. In this embodiment, fluid flowing along the fluid path drives the motion mechanism. This eliminates the need for a separate drive motor and also eliminates the need for manual movement of the cleaning element by the user. Instead, the motion mechanism utilizes the flow energy of the fluid to move the cleaning element.

[0040] In a further embodiment of the invention, the cleaning element includes a scraper element designed to wipe a surface of the filter assembly. For cleaning purposes, the scraper element moves relative to the filter assembly along said surface. This scrapes off dirt adhering to the surface of the filter assembly. This embodiment allows for particularly simple and reliable cleaning of the filter assembly.

[0041] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separation device includes a centrifugation device. Alternatively, the separation device is a centrifugation device. The centrifugation device is configured to centrifuge fluid flowing along the fluid path. In other words, the centrifugation device generates centrifugal accelerations and thus centrifugal forces within the fluid flow, by means of which dirt is separated from the fluid flow. In principle, the centrifugation device can be arranged at any point or at several points along the fluid path between the fluid intake and the fluid discharge.

[0042] In a further embodiment of the invention, the centrifugation device comprises a fluid guide element configured to impart rotation to the flowing fluid. In one embodiment, the fluid guide element is formed by a section of the fluid path. In embodiments with a fluid reservoir, specifically a fluid tank, the fluid guide element can be formed by a section of the fluid reservoir or fluid tank, for example, by a section of a tank shell and / or a tank lid of the fluid tank. In another embodiment, the fluid guide element is a component separate from the fluid reservoir, specifically the fluid tank. In one embodiment, the fluid guide element is movable to generate the rotation. In another embodiment, the fluid guide element is instead stationary.

[0043] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid guide element is rotatably movable. In one embodiment, the fluid guide element is configured for rotational movement by means of the fluid flowing along the fluid path. This eliminates the need for a separate drive for the rotational movement. In a further embodiment, the fluid guide element is configured for rotational movement by means of a drive. Such a driven rotational movement of the fluid guide element can cause particularly high centrifugal accelerations in the fluid flow. This allows even dirt particles with very low mass to be separated.

[0044] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separator is arranged upstream and / or downstream of the fluid reservoir. Alternatively, the separator is arranged between the reservoir inlet and the reservoir outlet. Alternatively or additionally, the separator is arranged between the reservoir inlet and the reservoir outlet, preferably within the reservoir volume. Depending on the location or locations where the separator is arranged, different advantages are achieved.

[0045] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separator is integrated into the fluid reservoir, in particular the fluid tank. This protects the separator from external influences and prevents the separator from increasing the external dimensions of the surface cleaning device. If the fluid reservoir, in particular the fluid tank, is designed to be removable, this also advantageously applies to the separator.

[0046] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid path includes a detection device designed to detect the degree of contamination of the fluid flowing in the fluid path, particularly by a user. The detection device allows the user to determine the degree of contamination of the fluid during wet cleaning. This enables the user to ascertain whether the fluid can still be used, needs to be replaced with fresh fluid, or needs to be diluted with fresh fluid. The detection device can be arranged at one or more points along the fluid path. In principle, the detection device can have any design suitable for the present application. In embodiments with a separator, the detection device can be associated with the separator and / or formed by a component of the separator.

[0047] In a further embodiment of the invention, the detection device includes a sensor unit configured to detect the degree of soiling and to output a sensor signal representing that degree. In this embodiment, the degree of soiling is measured using the sensor unit. The sensor unit is preferably an optical sensor unit configured to optically detect the degree of soiling. The sensor signal output by the sensor unit represents the degree of soiling. In one embodiment, the sensor signal is output as acoustic, optical, or other information for the user to perceive. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor signal can be used to control the surface cleaning device and / or individual functions of the surface cleaning device.For example, the surface cleaning device, in particular the conveying device, the tool device, the locking device, the separating device, a disinfection device, etc., can be controlled, in particular switched on and / or off, depending on the sensor signal as soon as the degree of contamination reaches or exceeds a defined maximum value.

[0048] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid path includes a disinfection device designed to disinfect at least one section of the fluid path and / or the fluid flowing along the fluid path. The disinfection device kills germs (bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms) absorbed along with the fluid. This prevents germs absorbed at one point on the surface during wet cleaning from being spread to other areas of the surface, a phenomenon also known as cross-contamination. Furthermore, it prevents the aforementioned germs from multiplying within the fluid path once the surface cleaning device is switched off and not used for an extended period. This counteracts the formation of odors and putrefaction. The disinfection device can be arranged at one or more points along the fluid path.In principle, the disinfection device can have any design suitable for the intended purpose. For example, the disinfection device can be configured to dose a disinfectant into the fluid.

[0049] In a further embodiment of the invention, the disinfection device includes a UV light source. The UV light source serves to emit ultraviolet light (UV light). It is known that germs can be rendered harmless by ultraviolet light. UV light sources are available on the market in various designs, dimensions, and other technical specifications, and offer a particularly cost-effective and robust design for the disinfection device.

[0050] In a further embodiment of the invention, the disinfection device forms or comprises a section of the fluid path, wherein said section is made of an antibacterial material. The antibacterial material counteracts the proliferation of germs within the fluid path. In one embodiment, said section of the fluid path is a hose or pipe made of the antibacterial material. Alternatively or additionally, the antibacterial material can be applied as a coating to said section.

[0051] In a further embodiment of the invention, the disinfection device is arranged upstream and / or downstream of the fluid reservoir and / or between the reservoir inlet and the reservoir outlet, in particular within the reservoir volume. Depending on whether the disinfection device is arranged upstream, downstream, and / or within the reservoir volume, different advantages arise.

[0052] In a further embodiment of the invention, the disinfection device is integrated into the fluid reservoir, in particular the fluid tank. Integrating the disinfection device into the fluid reservoir, in particular the fluid tank, protects it from external influences. Furthermore, installation space outside the fluid reservoir can be saved. In embodiments with a removable fluid reservoir, the disinfection device is removable together with the fluid reservoir. This allows the fluid reservoir to be disinfected using the disinfection device even when removed. This embodiment of the invention is particularly advantageous when the disinfection device includes a UV light source. The UV light source can be easily integrated into the fluid reservoir, specifically the fluid tank, for example, into a tank lid or into a wall of the fluid tank's casing.

[0053] In a further embodiment of the invention, the conveying device comprises a pumping device and / or a suction device. The pumping device is configured to pump the fluid through the fluid path. The pumping device can be arranged at one or more points along the fluid path. The pumping device can include one or more pumps. In different embodiments, the pumping device operates according to different principles and is, for example, configured to pump the fluid by means of overpressure, underpressure, and / or displacement. The suction device is configured to draw the fluid through the fluid path. The suction device can be arranged at one or more points along the fluid path.The suction device operates according to different principles in its various configurations and can, for example, include at least one suction turbine, suction pump, or other device for generating a vacuum within the fluid path. In one configuration, the suction device, particularly the suction turbine, is arranged on the guide section. In another configuration, the suction device, particularly the suction turbine, is arranged on the base section. In yet another configuration, the suction device, particularly the suction turbine, is a component of a carrying device designed for attachment to the user's body. In yet another configuration, the suction device, particularly the suction turbine, can be selectively attached to the guide section, the base section, and / or the carrying device. In one configuration, the pumping device is arranged on the guide section.In another embodiment, the pumping device is arranged on the base. In another embodiment, the pumping device is a component of a carrying device designed to be worn on the user's body. In yet another embodiment, the pumping device can be optionally attached to the guide element, the base, and / or the carrying device.

[0054] In a further embodiment of the invention, the flow rate of the conveying device, in particular the pumping device and / or the suction device, can be adjusted by a user of the surface cleaning device. By adjusting the flow rate, the user can change the amount of fluid delivered to the surface per unit of time and / or the amount of fluid absorbed by the surface per unit of time, preferably independently of each other.

[0055] In a further embodiment of the invention, the pumping device is arranged downstream of the reservoir outlet and is configured to pump fluid from the reservoir volume through the fluid discharge point via the reservoir outlet. Alternatively or additionally, the suction device is configured to generate a negative pressure within the fluid reservoir in order to draw fluid from the fluid intake point through the reservoir inlet into the reservoir volume. In this embodiment, the flow rate of the pumping device determines the amount of fluid discharged per unit of time, and the flow rate of the suction device determines the amount of fluid drawn in per unit of time. It is understood that any air drawn in during fluid intake, which may be in addition to or as a component of the fluid, is preferably removed from the fluid path, in particular the fluid reservoir, before the fluid is discharged again.For example, the suction device may have an exhaust vent specifically designed for this purpose.

[0056] In a further embodiment of the invention, the pumping device comprises a peristaltic pump that causes external mechanical deformation of an elastic section of tubing within the fluid path to pump the fluid. Peristaltic pumps are particularly common in medical technology because direct contact between the fluid being pumped and the moving part of the pump is not required. To pump the fluid, the pump acts only on the aforementioned section of tubing without coming into contact with the fluid itself. This prevents dirt present in the fluid from accumulating on or in the pump and impairing its function. In this embodiment of the invention, the pumping device is therefore particularly reliable and robust.

[0057] In a further embodiment of the invention, the hose section of the fluid path can be removed from and / or separated from the housing of the peristaltic pump, particularly without tools. This makes cleaning the hose section especially easy. Furthermore, this embodiment allows for particularly easy disassembly of the peristaltic pump for maintenance or repair. In a preferred embodiment, the housing has a housing cover that can be opened, particularly without tools, and in the open state of the housing cover, the hose section can be inserted into or removed from the housing. Preferably, a pump element designed to deform the elastic hose section is arranged in said housing, for example, a translationally movable pump element in the form of a finger (finger pump) or a rotationally movable rotor (rotor pump).

[0058] In a further embodiment of the invention, the suction device comprises a suction turbine configured for drawing in air, in particular wherein an intake filter is arranged upstream of the suction turbine, which is configured for separating liquid and / or particles from the conveyed fluid. The suction turbine is configured to generate a negative pressure within the fluid reservoir, in particular the fluid tank. This negative pressure is generated by drawing air from the fluid reservoir, specifically the fluid tank, by means of the suction turbine. The negative pressure causes fluid to be drawn from the fluid intake through the reservoir inlet into the reservoir volume. The fluid drawn in and received via the fluid intake will generally be a mixture of ambient air, liquid, specifically water with an optional cleaning additive, and dirt.To prevent damage to the suction turbine, an intake filter is preferably provided. The intake filter allows liquid and / or dirt to be separated before it reaches the suction turbine. The suction turbine is preferably located above the fluid level in the fluid reservoir.

[0059] In a further embodiment of the invention, the tool assembly comprises at least one tool which is driven by at least one drive to perform a tool movement to act on the surface. Preferably, the tool assembly comprises said drive. In different embodiments, the at least one tool performs different tool movements, for example, an oscillating, translational, rotary, and / or eccentric tool movement. It is understood that different combinations of tool movements are also conceivable and possible, for example, an oscillating rotary movement or an oscillating translational movement. During wet cleaning, the at least one tool contacts the surface to be cleaned. The tool movement loosens adhering dirt from the surface. The fluid dispensed by means of the fluid discharge supports the dirt removal and binds the loosened dirt.In a preferred embodiment, the weight of the surface cleaning device is supported at least predominantly, preferably substantially entirely, and particularly preferably entirely, on the surface via the base, specifically the at least one tool. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the working width of the tool assembly is less than 100 cm, preferably less than 50 cm, more preferably less than 40 cm, more preferably less than 30 cm, and particularly preferably between 30 cm and 45 cm. Preferably, different tool assemblies with different working widths are provided for different cleaning tasks, for example, a first working width of 64 cm, a second working width of 46 cm, and a third working width of 37 cm.

[0060] In a further embodiment of the invention, the at least one tool is a scrubbing tool for wet scrubbing the surface, wherein the surface cleaning device is a scrubber dryer machine. This is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention. The at least one scrubbing tool can, in principle, have any design suitable for wet scrubbing the surface. For example, the at least one scrubbing tool can be designed as a single piece or in multiple parts. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one scrubbing tool can comprise or be at least one brush, pad, fleece, or the like.

[0061] In a further embodiment of the invention, the tool assembly comprises at least one roller tool which is driven rotationally about a horizontal axis of rotation. In other words, the roller tool is driven rotationally about an axis of rotation oriented parallel to the surface. In one embodiment, the axis of rotation extends straight along the longitudinal axis. In another embodiment, the axis of rotation extends in a curved longitudinal axis. The roller tool acts on the surface with its circumferential surface.

[0062] In a further embodiment of the invention, the tool assembly comprises at least one disc tool that is driven rotationally about a vertical axis of rotation. In other words, the at least one disc tool is driven rotationally about an axis of rotation that is oriented orthogonally to the surface. The disc tool acts on the surface with its end face. The end face can, in principle, have any contour and, for example, be circular, oval, angular, or star-shaped.

[0063] In a further embodiment of the invention, the tool assembly comprises two disc tools, each driven by a rotary axis and rotating in opposite directions. This counter-rotating drive of the two disc tools ensures that reaction forces and / or inertial forces arising from the action of the disc tools on the surface are balanced. This force balancing prevents the operation of the tool assembly from affecting the ease of manual movement and / or maneuverability of the surface cleaning device. In particular, it prevents the user from having to work against any forces exerted by the tool assembly to move the surface cleaning device across the surface during wet cleaning. This ensures that the user can move the surface cleaning device across the surface in different directions with virtually identical effort, especially forwards, backwards, and laterally.Such mobility is particularly advantageous when wet cleaning confined spaces, for example when wet cleaning toilet cubicles or the like.

[0064] In a further embodiment of the invention, the two disc tools generate a propulsive force along a propulsion direction, whereby the propulsive force assists or causes movement of the surface cleaning device during wet cleaning. The propulsion generated by the disc tools (propulsive force along the propulsion direction) enables particularly smooth, energy-saving, and therefore ergonomic movement of the surface cleaning device. If the propulsion is strong enough to cause movement of the surface cleaning device, the user can dispense with pulling and / or pushing the device. Even if the propulsive force is such that it assists (but does not completely cause) movement, the user still benefits from smoother maneuverability.The disc tools can be configured in various ways to generate the penetrating force along the direction of penetration, for example, by a slight inclination / tilt of the disc tool's axis of rotation and / or by applying local force to the disc tools. In both cases, an uneven distribution of frictional forces around the axis of rotation is created between the respective disc tool and the surface. This uneven distribution of frictional forces generates the penetrating force along the direction of penetration. An uneven distribution of frictional forces can also be achieved, in principle, by partially covering the contact area between the respective disc tool and the surface. Alternatively or additionally, a friction-reducing agent, such as a lubricant, can be locally introduced between the respective disc tool and the surface.

[0065] In a further embodiment of the invention, the axes of rotation of the disc tools for generating the tractive force are slightly inclined. Specifically, the axes of rotation of the disc tools are inclined towards or away from each other, starting from a precise orthogonal / vertical alignment in a common plane. The inclination with respect to the precise vertical / orthogonal alignment is preferably between 0.5° and 5°, and particularly preferably between 1° and 3°. Preferably, the two disc tools are driven at identical speeds but in opposite directions of rotation.

[0066] In a further embodiment of the invention, the disc tools are each subjected to an axial force that is unevenly distributed and / or locally concentrated in the circumferential direction of the respective disc tool to generate the propulsive force. The uneven and / or locally concentrated axial force causes the aforementioned uneven distribution of frictional force and thus the propulsion. In one embodiment, to generate the respective axial force, each of the disc tools is preferably assigned a preloading element or pressure element arranged radially spaced from the respective axis of rotation. This element may, for example, comprise a wheel pressing against the disc tool, a pressing roller, a sliding spring, or the like.

[0067] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid dispensing unit has at least one outlet opening, in particular arranged on the base, through which fluid exits for dispensing onto the surface and / or exits the fluid path. In a particularly simple embodiment, the fluid dispensing unit is formed by a section of the fluid path, and the at least one outlet opening is an outlet opening of the fluid path. In one embodiment, the outlet opening is arranged on the base. This allows the fluid to be dispensed in the immediate vicinity of the surface. In a further embodiment, the at least one outlet opening is arranged away from the base, in particular on the guide element. This allows the fluid to be dispensed over a larger area of ​​the surface.

[0068] In a further embodiment of the invention, the at least one outlet opening is arranged in the area of ​​the tool assembly, in particular of one of the tools of the tool assembly. By arranging the at least one outlet opening in the area of ​​the tool assembly, in particular of the at least one tool, an adequate supply of fluid to the tool assembly is ensured. An adequate fluid supply to the tool assembly improves the result of the wet cleaning, since the dispensed fluid facilitates the removal of dirt by means of the tool assembly. In one embodiment, the at least one outlet opening is directed towards the at least one tool of the tool assembly. The fluid is therefore dispensed onto the at least one tool. In a further embodiment, the at least one outlet opening is arranged on a section of the tool. In this case, the fluid is dispensed onto the surface via the tool.

[0069] In a further embodiment of the invention, the at least one outlet opening is directed towards a circumferential surface and / or an end face of one or more of the tools of the tool assembly. This allows the moving tool to improve the distribution of the discharged fluid on the surface to be cleaned. The circumferential surface can, for example, be the circumferential surface of the roller tool. The end face can, for example, be the end face of the disc tool.

[0070] In a further embodiment of the invention, a section of the fluid path located upstream of the at least one outlet opening extends longitudinally through a cross-section of one of the tools of the tool assembly. In this embodiment, the fluid discharge consequently occurs through a cross-section of the tool. For example, the fluid can be guided along a horizontal and / or vertical axis of rotation of the tool before being discharged through the at least one outlet opening. This embodiment of the invention offers compact dimensions and facilitates fluid discharge in the immediate vicinity of the at least one tool. Furthermore, the discharged fluid is distributed more evenly over the surface and thus utilized more efficiently.

[0071] In a further embodiment of the invention, the at least one outlet opening is arranged upstream of the fluid intake, in particular a suction bar of the fluid intake, with respect to a direction of movement, in particular a forward direction, of the surface cleaning device during wet cleaning of the surface. This arrangement of the at least one outlet opening ensures an advantageous fluid discharge and intake with respect to the direction of movement, specifically the forward direction, of the surface cleaning device. Consequently, with a forward direction of movement, the fluid is discharged onto the surface via the at least one outlet opening and absorbed by the fluid intake, in particular a suction bar, which is arranged downstream of the at least one outlet opening with respect to the direction of movement.

[0072] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid discharge has a section of the fluid path, wherein the section is detachably attached at its opposite ends and is exposed between the ends. This allows the section to be easily detached from the surface cleaning device for cleaning, replacement, or repair. The section can, for example, be a hose and / or pipe section. Preferably, the opposite ends of the section can be detached without tools. For this purpose, each end can have a fluid connector, for example, a hose and / or pipe coupling. The fluid path can also be formed by cross-sections and / or cavities of the tool assembly, the base part, and / or the guide part.In this case, however, the fluid path is not "free" as defined in this design and therefore cannot be easily removed for cleaning, maintenance, or repair. Even if it is covered by cladding parts or other components, especially those that cannot be removed without tools, the section is not "free" as defined in this design.

[0073] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid path between the fluid intake and the fluid discharge is designed as a detachable hose. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid path between the fluid intake and a fluid reservoir is designed as a detachable hose. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid path between a fluid reservoir, specifically between a tank outlet of the fluid tank, and the fluid discharge, in particular an outlet opening of the fluid discharge, is designed as a detachable hose and / or pipe. In one embodiment, the respective section of the fluid path is designed at least predominantly as a detachable hose and / or pipe. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid path is designed essentially entirely as a detachable hose and / or pipe.In a particularly preferred embodiment, the respective section of the fluid path is designed entirely as a detachable hose and / or pipe. Preferably, detachability without tools is provided, for example, by equipping the respective hose and / or pipe with a fluid connector at its opposite ends. This embodiment of the invention allows for particularly easy cleaning of the fluid path. For cleaning purposes, the hose and / or pipe is detached, preferably without tools, and flushed, for example, with fresh water or a cleaning solution. In surface cleaning devices known from the prior art, the fluid path often extends through cross-sections or cavities of load-bearing components of the surface cleaning device, which are either not removable for cleaning or only removable with considerable effort.This embodiment of the invention offers particular advantages over the prior art.

[0074] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid intake has a suction bar arranged and / or attached to the base section, which rests on the surface during wet cleaning. The fluid is drawn from the surface by means of the suction bar, in particular by suction. For this purpose, the suction bar preferably forms a suction channel or suction area in which a vacuum and / or airflow is generated by means of the conveying device, in particular a suction element of the conveying device, to draw the fluid from the surface. The suction bar can, in principle, have any shape suitable for the present purpose. For example, the suction bar can be curved and / or extend straight along its length. Preferably, the suction bar extends along a working width of the tool assembly, preferably perpendicular to the direction of travel.In a preferred embodiment, the suction bar is arranged behind the fluid discharge and / or the tool device with respect to a direction of movement, in particular the direction of travel, of the surface cleaning device during wet cleaning of the surface.

[0075] In a further embodiment of the invention, the suction bar is movable relative to the tool assembly and can be lifted off the surface. Due to the liftable design of the suction bar, the surface can initially be wet-cleaned without the intake of fluid, which can also be described as pre-cleaning. In embodiments where the tool assembly is designed as a scrubbing device, this can also be referred to as pre-scrubbing.

[0076] In a further embodiment of the invention, the suction bar is extended longitudinally in a plane oriented parallel to the surface and is curved at least partially around the tool assembly, in particular at least one tool of the tool assembly. The curved longitudinal extension of the suction bar allows for more thorough fluid intake. Since the suction bar is curved at least partially around the tool assembly, fluid can also be absorbed by the surface in a lateral region of the tool assembly.

[0077] In a further embodiment of the invention, the suction bar is arranged behind the fluid discharge point, in particular at least one outlet opening of the fluid discharge point, with respect to a direction of movement, in particular the direction of travel, of the surface cleaning device during wet cleaning of the surface. Such an arrangement of the suction bar ensures that, when the surface cleaning device moves along the direction of movement, fluid is first discharged onto the surface and then picked up from the surface by means of the trailing suction bar.

[0078] In a further embodiment of the invention, the suction bar has at least one first sealing lip resting on the surface. During wet cleaning, the first sealing lip forms a fluid-tight seal on the surface. As a result, fluid present on the surface is drawn in by the first sealing lip during movement of the surface cleaning device and then suctioned away. The first sealing lip prevents a film of liquid from remaining on the surface and thus enables the most complete possible absorption of the fluid. The first sealing lip is preferably made of an elastomeric material, for example, rubber, silicone, or the like.

[0079] In a further embodiment of the invention, the suction strip has a second sealing lip resting on the surface and a suction channel formed between the first and second sealing lips. The suction channel is arranged at one end of the fluid path and, during operation of the surface cleaning device, is subjected to a vacuum generated by the conveying device, in particular by the suction device of the conveying device. The second sealing lip is preferably made of an elastomeric material, for example, rubber, silicone, or the like. Preferably, the second sealing lip is arranged in front of the first sealing lip with respect to a forward direction of movement, in particular the propulsion direction, of the surface cleaning device. The second sealing lip can therefore also be referred to as the front sealing lip. The first sealing lip can also be referred to as the rear sealing lip.Preferably, the second sealing lip has recesses that open into the suction channel and are spaced apart from each other, particularly along a longitudinal direction of the second sealing lip. Fluid that has accumulated in front of the second sealing lip can pass through the recesses into the suction channel and be drawn off from the surface there.

[0080] In a further embodiment of the invention, the surface cleaning device includes a power supply unit configured to provide at least the conveying device and / or the tooling unit with electrical operating energy. In one embodiment, the power supply unit includes a mains connection device for connecting the surface cleaning device to an electrical power grid. In this case, wired operation of the surface cleaning device is provided. In another embodiment, the power supply unit is configured for wireless power supply. In embodiments with a locking device, a separating device, a detection device, and / or a disinfection device, and provided that the aforementioned devices are configured for electrical operation, the power supply unit is preferably also configured to supply power to these devices.

[0081] In a further embodiment of the invention, the power supply unit comprises at least one energy storage device. Preferably, the at least one energy storage device is a rechargeable battery. The at least one energy storage device enables cordless operation of the surface cleaning device. Compared to corded operation, in which the surface cleaning device is connected to a power grid via an electrical cable, cordless operation allows for a greater working radius. This also increases the cleaning speed. In one embodiment, the at least one energy storage device is permanently installed and therefore not intended for removal by the user. This prevents the energy storage device from being unintentionally replaced with an unsuitable or damaged one, thus avoiding consequential damage.In a further embodiment, the energy storage unit is designed for user removal, enabling a quick exchange of an empty energy storage unit for a full one. In another embodiment, the energy supply unit comprises multiple energy storage units, each designed to supply energy to different components of the surface cleaning device. In embodiments with a removable fluid tank, the tank preferably has at least one of the multiple and / or at least one separate energy storage unit, thus allowing energy to be supplied to components that may be associated with the fluid tank (for example, the shut-off device, the separating device, the separating device, and / or the disinfection device) even when the fluid tank is removed.

[0082] In a further embodiment of the invention, the energy supply unit, in particular the at least one energy storage device, is attached to the guide section and / or the base section. The attachment is preferably removable. Attaching it to the guide section allows the dimensions and weight of the base section to be kept low. Conversely, attaching it to the base section allows the dimensions and weight of the guide section to be kept low. Partially attaching the energy supply unit to the guide section and the base section allows for a balanced weight distribution and efficient use of the available installation space. The removable attachment of the at least one energy storage device enables quick and easy replacement. This avoids downtime of the surface cleaning device while the energy storage device is being recharged.This contributes to increasing the cleaning speed and improving the utilization of the surface cleaning device.

[0083] In a further embodiment of the invention, the power supply unit, in particular the at least one energy storage device, is a component of a carrying device, the carrying device being designed for carrying on the user's body. Carrying the power supply unit, in particular the at least one energy storage device, on the user's body allows the dimensions of the surface cleaning device to be compact and the weight to be kept low. In one embodiment, the carrying device is a backpack for carrying on the user's back. In another embodiment, the carrying device is a strap that can be placed around the user's hip and / or shoulder. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the power supply unit, in particular the at least one energy storage device, can be optionally detachably attached to the guide part, the base part, and / or the carrying device.This allows the user to decide, depending on the cleaning task, whether the power supply unit should be attached to the base, the guide section, or the support frame. When wet cleaning horizontal surfaces, mounting it on the base and / or the guide section is usually advantageous, as the weight of the power supply unit can increase the contact pressure of the cleaning tool on the surface being cleaned. When cleaning inclined, especially vertical, surfaces, mounting the power supply unit on the support frame is usually advantageous in order to minimize the weight that has to be moved along the inclined, especially vertical, surface.

[0084] In a further embodiment of the invention, the surface cleaning device also features a propulsion unit configured to generate a propulsive force along a direction of travel, wherein the propulsive force assists or causes movement of the surface cleaning device during wet cleaning. The propulsion unit reduces the effort required by the user to move the surface cleaning device. If the propulsive force is sufficiently strong to not merely assist but cause movement, the user can simply control the direction of travel. In this case, no effort is required from the user to move the surface cleaning device during wet cleaning. The propulsion unit can, in principle, be designed in any way suitable for the intended purpose.For example, the propulsion device can comprise a drive motor and a drive element that can be driven by the drive motor. The drive element can be a drive wheel, a drive roller, or the like. To generate the propulsion, the at least one drive element rests against the surface to be cleaned and generates the propulsive force through a rolling and / or rotational movement. The latter movement can be slip-free or slip-loaded. The propulsion generated by the propulsion device is preferably controllable by manually changing the speed of the rolling or rotational movement. The propulsion generated by the propulsion device can be provided as an alternative or in addition to propulsion generated by the tool device.

[0085] In a further embodiment of the invention, the surface cleaning device also features a connecting device by means of which the guide part, in particular its distal end, and the base part are movably connected relative to each other, wherein the direction of movement of the base part during wet cleaning of the surface can be controlled by a movement of the guide part relative to the base part. The connecting device allows the user to intuitively and easily control the direction of movement of the base part by means of the guide part. This control is achieved by moving the guide part relative to the base part. In one embodiment, the base part and the guide part are pivotally and / or rotatably connected relative to each other by means of the connecting device. In this case, the relative movement is a pivoting and / or rotating movement.Preferably, the connecting device is configured such that the base part can be rotated about its vertical axis parallel to the surface by means of a relative movement of the guide part, thereby changing / controlling the direction of movement of the base part. In one embodiment, the connecting device allows the guide part to pivot relative to the base part in at least one pivot plane. In one embodiment, the guide part is pivotable relative to the base part by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, more preferably at least 90°, more preferably at least 120°, more preferably at least 150°, and more preferably at least 180° within the aforementioned pivot plane.In a further embodiment, the connecting device allows the guide part to pivot relative to the base part in at least two, in particular orthogonal, pivot planes. In one embodiment, the guide part is pivotable relative to the base part by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, more preferably at least 90°, more preferably at least 120°, more preferably at least 150°, and more preferably at least 180° within a first pivot plane of said two pivot planes.In one embodiment, the guide element is pivotable relative to the base element by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, more preferably at least 90°, more preferably at least 120°, more preferably at least 150°, and more preferably at least 180° within a second pivot plane of said two pivot planes. Preferably, the guide element is simultaneously pivotable at least within the first pivot plane and the second pivot plane, particularly in any combination of angles within the aforementioned angular ranges.In one embodiment, the guide element is pivotable at least in one plane with respect to an imaginary or actual vertical orientation of the guide element, at least in one direction, for example, rearward, forward, and / or laterally, by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, and more preferably up to 90°. In a further embodiment, the connecting device allows the guide element to pivot in all directions relative to the base element. Preferably, the guide element is pivotable in all directions with respect to an imaginary or actual vertical orientation of the guide element, by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, and more preferably up to 90°.

[0086] In a further embodiment of the invention, the connecting device forms a gimbal connection between the guide part, in particular its distal end, and the base part. This allows the base part to be rotated about its vertical axis and in a plane of rotation parallel to the surface to be cleaned by rotating the guide part about its longitudinal axis, thus controlling the direction of movement of the base part. The gimbal connection allows this controllability of the base part's direction of movement even with different orientations of the guide part's longitudinal axis relative to its vertical axis. In other words, the gimbal connection allows the base part to be rotated by turning the guide part while resting on the surface, even if the guide part is inclined.The gimbal connection between the guide section and the base section allows for particularly easy and intuitive maneuverability of the base section while simultaneously ensuring a simple design of the connection mechanism. The gimbal connection can be designed in various ways. In one embodiment, the connection mechanism features a universal joint with two orthogonal joint axes, which can be formed by structural elements or be axes in the geometric sense. In another embodiment, the gimbal connection is formed by a solid joint, a spring joint, or the like.

[0087] In a further embodiment of the invention, the base part is rotatable by means of a rotation of the guide part about its vertical axis by at least 10°, preferably by at least 30°, more preferably by at least 45°, more preferably by at least 60°, more preferably by at least 90°, more preferably by at least 120°, more preferably by at least 150°, more preferably by at least 180°, more preferably by at least 210°, more preferably by at least 240°, more preferably by at least 270°, more preferably by at least 300°, more preferably by at least 330°, more preferably by at least 360°.

[0088] The fluid tank according to the invention is intended for a surface cleaning device for wet cleaning a surface, in particular for a surface cleaning device according to the preceding description. The fluid tank according to the invention has a tank volume, a tank outlet, and a tank inlet. The tank outlet is configured for a fluid-conducting connection to the fluid output of the surface cleaning device. The tank inlet is configured for a fluid-conducting connection to the fluid intake of the surface cleaning device. The tank inlet and the tank outlet are fluid-conductingly connected to each other via the tank volume. This enables the fluid tank according to the invention to return fluid taken up from the surface by the fluid intake of the surface cleaning device to the fluid output of the surface cleaning device. The fluid tank acts as an intermediate storage or buffer for the taken-up fluid before its re-dispensing by the fluid output.The fluid tank forms a section of a fluid path of the surface cleaning device, the fluid path connecting the fluid discharge to the fluid intake. The tank inlet opens into the tank volume. The tank volume opens into the tank outlet. In one embodiment, the tank outlet and / or the tank inlet are formed on a tank shell of the fluid tank, the tank shell enclosing and / or forming the tank volume. In another embodiment, the fluid tank has at least one tank lid designed for opening and closing the tank volume and / or the tank shell, and which includes the tank inlet. In yet another embodiment, the fluid tank has a further tank lid designed for opening and closing the tank volume and / or the tank shell, and which includes the tank outlet. In one embodiment, the fluid tank, and in particular its tank shell, is manufactured as a single piece.In a further embodiment, the fluid tank, and in particular its tank shell, is made of multiple parts. The fluid tank can, in principle, be designed and constructed in any way suitable for the intended purpose. Preferably, the fluid tank is made of a dimensionally stable material. Suitable materials include, for example, plastic, metal, metal-coated plastic, and / or plastic-coated metal.

[0089] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank is designed for attachment to a longitudinally extended guide section of the surface cleaning device and / or to a base section of the surface cleaning device. The guide section of the surface cleaning device extends longitudinally between a proximal end and a distal end and is designed for manually guiding the surface cleaning device over the surface to be cleaned. The base section is connected to the distal end of the guide section and rests on or against the surface during wet cleaning. Further features of the guide section and the base section will become apparent, mutatis mutandis, from the disclosure of the surface cleaning device according to the invention and its embodiments. Preferably, the fluid tank is provided in a removable manner. This allows the fluid tank to be easily removed from the surface cleaning device for cleaning, repair, or replacement.By attaching the fluid tank to the longitudinally extended guide section, the dimensions and weight of the base section can be kept to a minimum. Attaching the fluid tank to the base section allows the dimensions and weight of the guide section to be kept compact. Attaching the fluid tank to both the guide section and the base section achieves a balanced weight distribution and improved utilization of available installation space. For attachment to the longitudinally extended guide section, the fluid tank preferably has an elongated shape.

[0090] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank is designed to be carried on the user's body and / or attached to a carrying device, the carrying device being designed for carrying on the user's body. Carrying the fluid tank on the user's body allows the dimensions and weight of the surface cleaning device to be kept low. This applies in particular to the guide section and / or the base section of the surface cleaning device. Carrying the fluid tank on the user's body offers advantages, especially when wet-cleaning inclined, particularly vertical, surfaces, since in this case the weight of the fluid tank does not have to be moved along the inclined, particularly vertical, surface together with the surface cleaning device.Attaching the fluid tank to the guide section and / or the base section can offer advantages when wet cleaning horizontal surfaces, as this increases the contact pressure of the base section and any tool assembly due to the weight of the fluid tank and the fluid it contains. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid tank can be optionally attached to the base section, the guide section, and / or the aforementioned carrying device. This allows the user to decide how to carry the fluid tank, depending on the cleaning task. The carrying device could, for example, be a backpack for carrying on the user's back. Alternatively, the carrying device could be a belt for wearing around the user's hips and / or shoulders.

[0091] In a further embodiment of the invention, the tank volume is a maximum of 10 liters, preferably a maximum of 8 liters, preferably a maximum of 6 liters, preferably a maximum of 5 liters, preferably a maximum of 4 liters, preferably a maximum of 3 liters, preferably a maximum of 2 liters, and most preferably between 0.5 liters and 2.0 liters. In this embodiment of the invention, the tank volume, and thus also the fluid tank, is comparatively small and compact. By limiting the tank volume to a maximum of 10 liters or one of the aforementioned maximum values, the dimensions of the fluid tank can be kept compact. The weight of the fluid tank is then also relatively low when filled and can be easily moved by a user. A tank volume between 0.5 liters and 2.0 liters has proven to be particularly advantageous, as it achieves both particularly compact dimensions and a particularly low weight.On the other hand, a tank volume between 0.5 and 2.0 liters still allows for a sufficient amount of fluid to dissolve and / or bind dirt generated during wet cleaning. With a tank volume of less than 0.5 liters, the fluid will regularly become heavily contaminated after only a short period of wet cleaning. With a tank volume of more than 2.0 liters, the weight becomes considerable and cannot be easily moved and / or carried by all potential users under all circumstances. The range of 0.5 to 2 liters therefore represents an optimum. In practice, the tank volume of the surface cleaning device will not always be completely filled with the absorbed / discharged liquid. It has been shown that a fill level and / or liquid level between 30% and 60%, preferably between 40% and 55%, and most preferably 50% of the tank volume is particularly advantageous.

[0092] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank, in particular its tank volume and / or a tank shell forming the tank volume, is designed in the form of a longitudinally elongated hollow cylinder. Preferably, a design in the form of a tube is provided. The longitudinally elongated hollow cylindrical design of the fluid tank offers particular advantages when the fluid tank is designed for attachment to the longitudinally elongated guide element or for carrying on the user's body. When attached to the guide element, the longitudinally elongated hollow cylindrical design allows for compact dimensions and an advantageous weight distribution. The same applies when the longitudinally elongated hollow cylindrical fluid tank is carried on the user's body. The longitudinally elongated hollow cylinder has a different cross-sectional shape depending on the embodiment. In principle, the hollow cylinder can have a square, rounded, oval, or circular cross-section.Furthermore, it is understood that the cross-section of the hollow cylinder can vary along its longitudinal axis. The aforementioned design as a tube or pipe is particularly preferred. Tubes are readily available on the market in various diameters, wall thicknesses, and other properties. This allows for particularly simple manufacturing of the fluid tank or tank shell. With a hollow cylindrical, especially tubular, design of the tank shell, the fluid tank preferably has a tank cap or other closures for sealing the end face of the tank shell. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid tank is made of plastic. A hollow cylindrical, especially tubular, design combined with plastic construction is particularly advantageous.

[0093] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank, in particular its tank volume and / or the tank shell forming the tank volume, comprises several parts that are fluid-tightly joined together along a longitudinal axis of the fluid tank. Such a multi-part design achieves a modular structure of the fluid tank, especially the tank shell. In a preferred embodiment, the tank shell consists of these several parts.

[0094] When assembled, the multiple parts enclose the tank volume. In a preferred embodiment, each of the multiple parts is a hollow cylinder section, specifically a pipe section. In one embodiment, the multiple parts are identical. In another embodiment, the multiple parts differ with respect to at least one property, for example, the enclosed tank volume, diameter, length, or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the multiple parts are fluid-tightly connected along the longitudinal axis. In this case, immediately adjacent parts are connected by means of a plug connection, which in a particularly preferred embodiment is a bayonet connection or bayonet lock. However, other joining methods are also conceivable instead of such a plug connection.For example, the multiple parts can be screwed together or snapped into place. Thanks to the modular design of the fluid tank, especially the tank shell, the tank volume can be easily adjusted. To reduce the tank volume, fewer parts can be used; to increase the tank volume, more parts can be used.

[0095] In a further embodiment of the invention, the several parts are detachably joined, in particular by being plugged together. This detachable assembly allows the user to easily adjust the tank volume. To increase the tank volume, another part can be inserted. To decrease the tank volume, one or more parts can be removed. Furthermore, the detachable connection of the parts allows for particularly easy cleaning of the fluid tank and any equipment located within the tank.

[0096] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank, in particular the tank shell forming the tank volume, is made at least partially, preferably entirely, of a transparent material, especially plastic. This allows the user to easily determine the degree of contamination of the fluid from the outside without opening the fluid tank. Preferably, the fluid tank is made at least predominantly of the transparent material. More preferably, the fluid tank is made entirely of the transparent material. Manufacturing from transparent plastic is preferred. Alternatively, manufacturing from shatterproof glass is conceivable and possible.

[0097] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank has a locking device. The locking device can be switched between a release state and a locked state. In the release state, the fluid-conducting connection between the tank inlet and the tank outlet is / remains open across the tank volume. In the locked state, the tank volume is divided by the locking device into a fluid delivery tank volume and a fluid intake tank volume. The fluid delivery tank volume has the tank outlet and is separate from the tank inlet. The fluid intake tank volume has the tank inlet and is separate from the tank outlet. The locking device serves to selectively interrupt the return of fluid. The locking device can be switched between a release state and a locked state. In the release state, the fluid path between the fluid intake and the fluid delivery is / remains open for fluid return.In the blocked state, the fluid path between the fluid intake and fluid discharge points is blocked by the blocking device. The blocking device can, in principle, have any design suitable for the intended purpose. For example, the blocking device can include or be a fluid control valve, in particular a shut-off valve, a switching valve, or the like. In the blocked state, the tank volume is divided into the fluid discharge tank volume and the fluid intake tank volume by the blocking device, thus interrupting the return of fluid. The fluid discharge tank volume has a tank outlet and is separated from the tank inlet by the blocking device. The fluid intake tank volume has a tank inlet and is separated from the tank outlet by the blocking device. In the released state, the division of the tank volume by the blocking device is lifted, so that fluid can be returned.The user can select whether to divide the tank volume into sections, allowing them to choose whether the collected fluid is returned to the fluid outlet or stored in the fluid intake tank for later disposal. The fluid tank's shut-off device enables the surface cleaning unit to operate with fluid return or conventionally without, depending on the application. It is also possible to initially clean without fluid return. If the user finds that the cleaning result is unsatisfactory after emptying the fluid outlet tank, subsequent cleaning with fluid return can be performed. In designs with a multi-part tank, particularly a multi-part tank shell, the shut-off device can be positioned and / or integrated between adjacent parts.For example, the locking device can be a locking element that can be inserted fluid-tight between adjacent parts of the tank shell or introduced into the tank volume in some other way.

[0098] In a further embodiment of the invention, the locking device comprises at least one fluid control element, in particular a switching valve. The fluid control element can be actuated to switch between the enabled state and the locked state. In one embodiment, manual actuation is provided. In another embodiment, automatic actuation is provided, for example by means of an actuator, motor, flowing fluid, or the like. In a further embodiment, the fluid control element can be electrically controlled and / or actuated to switch between the enabled state and the disconnected state.

[0099] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank includes a separator designed to remove dirt from the fluid flowing between the tank inlet and outlet. This separator removes dirt from the fluid, preventing excessive dirt accumulation. By removing dirt, the degree of contamination of the fluid is reduced, for example, by removing (retaining, collecting, filtering, and / or separating) undissolved and / or dissolved dirt particles, small parts, lint, hair, or the like before the fluid is released again. Dirt removal by the separator allows the available fluid quantity to be used for longer cleaning times and / or larger cleaning areas without compromising cleaning results.The separator device can have any design suitable for the intended purpose. In principle, the separator device can be located at one or more points within the fluid tank.

[0100] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separation device comprises at least one filter device. Alternatively, the separation device is a filter device. The filter device is designed to filter dirt from the fluid. The filter device can, in principle, be arranged at one or more locations within the fluid tank.

[0101] In a further embodiment of the invention, the filter device is arranged, in particular directly, downstream of the tank inlet within the tank volume. Preferably, the filter device is arranged upstream of a liquid level of the fluid located in the fluid tank. Such an arrangement of the filter device separates dirt before it can mix with the liquid level in the fluid tank.

[0102] In a further embodiment of the invention, the filter device is arranged, in particular directly, upstream of the tank outlet within the tank volume. Preferably, in this embodiment of the invention, the filter device is arranged below the liquid level in the fluid tank.

[0103] In a further embodiment of the invention, the filter device comprises a coarse filter for filtering coarse dirt and a fine filter for filtering fine dirt. Preferably, the coarse filter and the fine filter are arranged in series. Preferably, the coarse filter is arranged upstream of the fine filter. Preferably, the coarse filter and the fine filter are arranged within the tank volume. However, it is conceivable and possible for the coarse filter to be arranged upstream of the tank inlet outside the tank volume. Alternatively or additionally, the fine filter can be arranged downstream of the tank outlet outside the tank volume.

[0104] In a further embodiment of the invention, the filter device is removable from the fluid tank volume through a closable opening and / or attached to a tank lid of the fluid tank. By making the filter device removable from the tank volume and / or attached to the tank lid, it can be cleaned, maintained, and / or replaced particularly easily. The tank lid is designed to openably close the tank volume, in particular the tank shell that forms the tank volume.

[0105] In a further embodiment of the invention, the filter device comprises at least one sieve filter with a mesh size between 0.06 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably between 0.09 mm and 0.3 mm, and particularly preferably between 0.125 mm and 0.25 mm. In one embodiment, the filter device comprises several sieve filters. The multiple sieve filters can be arranged fluid-conducting in series or parallel to one another. The multiple sieve filters can have identical or different mesh sizes. Alternatively, the mesh size can be described as being between mesh (US) 230 and mesh (US) 25, preferably between mesh (US) 170 and mesh (US) 50, and particularly preferably between mesh (US) 120 and mesh (US) 60. The aforementioned ranges of values ​​for the mesh size of the at least one sieve filter have proven to be particularly advantageous.In a preferred embodiment, the filter device comprises a first screen filter and a second screen filter, wherein the first and second screen filters are connected in series, with the first screen filter being arranged upstream of the second screen filter with respect to the fluid flow direction. Preferably, the first screen filter has a first mesh size, and the second screen filter has a different second mesh size. Particularly preferably, the first mesh size is larger than the second mesh size. The respective mesh size is decisive for the size of the filterable dirt particles. With a mesh size of, for example, 0.7 mm, dirt particles with a size of 0.7 mm or larger are retained by the mesh of the screen filter and thus filtered. Smaller dirt particles with a size of less than 0.7 mm can pass through the mesh and are not filtered.The filter device comprises at least one filter unit, which need not necessarily be a sieve filter. Alternatively or additionally to the sieve filter, the filter device may comprise at least one foam filter or the like. The filter device, and in particular its at least one filter unit, is preferably designed such that dirt particles, small parts, hair, lint, or the like of a size suitable for the present cleaning task can be filtered out of the fluid. In particular, clogging of the fluid path should be avoided.

[0106] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank also includes a filter cleaning device designed to clean the filter assembly. The filter cleaning device removes filtered dirt from the filter assembly. This prevents clogging of the filter assembly, for example, by the filter cleaning device wiping and / or rinsing away dirt from the filter assembly. The filter cleaning device can, in principle, have any design suitable for the present purpose. In one embodiment, the filter cleaning device is designed for manual operation. In another embodiment, the filter cleaning device cleans the filter assembly automatically without user intervention. In a preferred embodiment, the filter cleaning device is arranged together with the filter assembly within the tank volume.

[0107] In a further embodiment of the invention, the filter cleaning device comprises a cleaning element movable relative to the filter device and a movement mechanism for moving the cleaning element. In one embodiment, the cleaning element is rotatably movable. In another embodiment, the cleaning element is translationally movable. A combined translational and rotational movement of the cleaning element is also conceivable and possible. The movable cleaning element allows dirt to be removed from the filter device. The movement mechanism serves to move the cleaning element and can, in principle, have any design suitable for the present purpose.

[0108] In a further embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism is configured for manual operation by a user. This eliminates the need for a separate drive to power the cleaning element. In one embodiment, the movement mechanism is a rotary mechanism for transmitting a rotary motion and / or torque applied by the user to the cleaning element. In a further embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism is a translational mechanism for transmitting a translational motion and / or force generated by the user to the cleaning element.

[0109] In a further embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism is configured for automatic drive by means of flowing fluid. In this embodiment, the movement mechanism is driven by fluid flowing into the tank volume through the tank inlet and / or by fluid flowing through the tank volume towards the tank outlet and / or by fluid flowing out of the tank outlet. This eliminates the need for a separate drive motor and also eliminates the need for manual movement of the cleaning element by the user. Instead, the movement mechanism utilizes the flow energy of the fluid to move the cleaning element.

[0110] In a further embodiment of the invention, the cleaning element includes a scraper element designed to wipe a surface of the filter assembly. For cleaning purposes, the scraper element moves relative to the filter assembly along said surface. This scrapes off dirt adhering to the surface of the filter assembly. This embodiment allows for particularly simple and reliable cleaning of the filter assembly.

[0111] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separation device includes a centrifugation device configured for centrifuging fluid flowing along the fluid path. Alternatively, the separation device is a centrifugation device. The centrifugation device is configured for centrifuging the fluid. In other words, the centrifugation device generates centrifugal accelerations and thus centrifugal forces within the fluid flow, by means of which contaminants are separated from the fluid flow. The centrifugation device can, in principle, be arranged at any one or more locations within the fluid tank.

[0112] In a further embodiment of the invention, the centrifugation device includes a fluid guide element configured to impart rotation to the flowing fluid. In one embodiment, the fluid guide element is formed by a section of the fluid tank. In another embodiment, the fluid guide element is movable to generate the rotation. In yet another embodiment, the fluid guide element is stationary. In yet another embodiment, the fluid guide element is arranged and / or formed on an inner wall of the fluid tank, in particular on the tank shell of the fluid tank. For this purpose, the inner wall may, for example, have spiral protrusions or the like. Preferably, the fluid guide element is integrated into the tank lid of the fluid tank.

[0113] This allows for simplified manufacturing. This design is particularly advantageous when the fluid tank has a tubular tank shell. In this case, the fluid guide element does not need to be formed on the tank shell, and the tubular tank shell can be manufactured from a semi-finished pipe in a particularly simple manner.

[0114] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid guide element is rotatably movable with respect to the tank inlet and / or tank outlet. In one embodiment, the fluid guide element is configured for rotational movement by means of the fluid flow. This eliminates the need for a separate drive for the rotational movement. In a further embodiment, the fluid guide element is configured for rotational movement by means of a drive. Such a driven rotational movement of the fluid guide element can generate particularly high centrifugal accelerations in the fluid flow. This allows even very low-mass dirt particles to be separated.

[0115] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank includes a disinfection device designed to disinfect the tank volume and / or the fluid flowing between the tank inlet and outlet. The disinfection device kills germs (bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms) absorbed along with the fluid. This prevents germs picked up in one area of ​​the surface during wet cleaning from being spread to other areas, a phenomenon also known as cross-contamination. Furthermore, it prevents these germs from multiplying within the fluid tank once the surface cleaning device is switched off and not used for an extended period. This counteracts the formation of odors and putrefaction. The disinfection device can be located at one or more points within the fluid tank.In principle, the disinfection device can have any design suitable for the intended purpose. For example, the disinfection device can be configured to dose a disinfectant into the fluid tanks. Preferably, the disinfection device is arranged in the direction of flow between the tank inlet and the tank outlet within the tank volume. In one embodiment, the disinfection device has an antibacterial coating applied to an inner wall of the fluid tank. In another embodiment, the fluid tank, and in particular its tank shell, is made of an antibacterial material.

[0116] In a further embodiment of the invention, the disinfection device includes a UV light source. The UV light source serves to emit ultraviolet light (UV light). It is known that germs can be rendered harmless by ultraviolet light. UV light sources are available on the market in various designs, dimensions, and other technical specifications, and offer a particularly cost-effective and robust design for the disinfection device.

[0117] In a further embodiment of the invention, the UV light source is arranged within the tank volume and / or on a tank lid of the fluid tank. By arranging the UV light source within the tank volume, the tank volume can be disinfected with UV light. This counteracts the proliferation of germs and / or the formation of odors and putrefaction in a particularly simple and effective manner. The arrangement on a tank lid makes the UV light source easily accessible and / or removable from the tank volume. This simplifies cleaning, maintenance, or replacement of the UV light source. Furthermore, by arranging the UV light source within the tank volume, it is protected from external influences and damage, and the external dimensions of the fluid tank can be kept compact.

[0118] In a further embodiment of the invention, the UV light source is arranged outside the tank volume. By arranging it outside the tank volume, the UV light source is protected from moisture and contamination by fluid within the tank volume. Furthermore, the UV light source is particularly easily accessible. Optionally, the fluid tank has a UV-transparent section through which UV light emitted by the UV light source can enter the tank volume. Preferably, the UV-transparent section of the fluid tank is transparent or at least translucent to UV light. Optionally, the fluid tank also has a light guide and / or a reflector by means of which the UV light emitted by the UV light source can be directed into the tank volume. The light guide and / or reflector also allows the UV light source to be arranged further away from the tank volume.This allows for improved utilization of available installation space and a UV light source that is protected from damage and contamination. Furthermore, the UV light can be focused, diffused, or otherwise shaped using the light guide and / or reflector to improve its disinfection effect.

[0119] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank and / or the tank volume is closed or closable, allowing the fluid tank to be pressurized to a vacuum in order to draw fluid into the fluid tank through the tank inlet. In other words, the fluid tank, with the exception of the openings required for its function, such as the tank inlet and outlet, is designed as a closed container. Such a closed design of the fluid tank differs, for example, from an open basin or the like. Due to the closed design, the fluid tank can be pressurized with the aforementioned vacuum by means of a pumping device in order to draw fluid from the fluid intake of the surface cleaning device through the tank inlet into the tank volume. In one embodiment, the pumping device is a component of the fluid tank.In a further embodiment of the invention, the conveying device is a component of the surface cleaning device.

[0120] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank has a connecting section configured for mechanical and / or fluid-conducting connection to a suction device of the surface cleaning unit. The fluid tank and / or its volume is closed or closable, allowing the suction device to create a vacuum for drawing fluid into the fluid tank through the tank inlet. The connecting section serves as a mechanical and / or fluidic connection for the suction device, enabling the suction device to draw air from the tank volume. The vacuum is generated by this vacuum extraction. The extracted air is preferably released to the environment via an exhaust vent. In one embodiment, the suction device includes the exhaust vent. In another embodiment, the fluid tank includes the exhaust vent. Preferably, the suction device is a suction turbine.In a particularly simple embodiment, the connecting section is an air outlet that is fluid-conducting and connected to the suction device. The suction device can also be located further away from the fluid tank on the surface cleaning device and / or a carrying device and be fluid-conducting and connected to the air outlet by means of a hose, pipe, or other fluid line. In a further embodiment, the connecting section also serves as the mechanical connection between the suction device and the fluid tank. For example, the connecting section of the fluid tank can be designed to complement a connecting section of the suction device, so that the two connecting sections can be joined together to form a fluid-tight connection. This connection can be, in particular, a plug-in, bayonet, snap-fit, clamp, or other type of connection. Preferably, the connection is detachable.

[0121] In a further embodiment of the invention, the connecting section is arranged at a proximal end of the fluid tank. Alternatively or additionally, the connecting section is arranged above a fluid level within the fluid tank. The arrangement above the fluid level relates to the intended use of the fluid tank and / or the surface cleaning device. In other words, when wet cleaning a surface using the surface cleaning device, the connecting section is preferably arranged above the fluid level. The proximal end of the fluid tank faces away from the surface and / or is located further away from the surface than a distal end of the fluid tank.By arranging the connecting section at the proximal end of the fluid tank and / or above the liquid level, it can be prevented that liquid enters the suction device of the surface cleaning machine via the connecting section and damages it.

[0122] The further fluid tank according to the invention is also intended for a surface cleaning device for wet cleaning a surface, in particular for a surface cleaning device according to the preceding description. The further fluid tank according to the invention has a tank volume, a tank outlet, a tank inlet, and a separating device. The tank outlet is configured for a fluid-conducting connection to the fluid discharge of the surface cleaning device. The tank inlet is configured for a fluid-conducting connection to the fluid intake of the surface cleaning device. The tank inlet and the tank outlet are fluid-tightly separated from each other by means of the separating device, and the tank volume is divided by means of the separating device to form a fluid discharge tank volume and a fluid intake tank volume. The fluid discharge tank volume has the tank outlet and is fluid-tightly separated from the tank inlet by means of the separating device.The fluid intake tank has a tank inlet and is fluid-tightly separated from the tank outlet by means of a separating device. The separating device is movable relative to the tank inlet and outlet. When the separating device moves, the fluid intake tank volume increases and simultaneously the fluid discharge tank volume decreases, and / or vice versa. The further fluid tank according to the invention allows for the separate storage of the fluid to be discharged and the fluid received. The fluid discharge tank volume serves to store the fluid to be discharged, which will typically be fresh water, a cleaning solution, or another liquid for wet cleaning the surface. During wet cleaning, the fluid is discharged from the fluid discharge tank volume onto the surface via the tank outlet by the fluid discharge of the surface cleaning device.Under the influence of the surface cleaning device, for example, a tool attachment of the surface cleaning device, dirt is loosened from the surface. The dispensed fluid supports the dirt loosening and binding process. Subsequently, the previously dispensed fluid, including the loosened and / or bound dirt, is collected from the surface by the fluid intake of the surface cleaning device and directed through the tank inlet into the fluid intake volume of the fluid tank. Prior art teaches the use of separate fluid tanks for dispensing and receiving fluid. Conventional surface cleaning devices for wet cleaning therefore typically have two separate fluid tanks with different functions: a fresh water tank for dispensed fluid and a dirty water tank for collected fluid. The solution according to the invention makes the use of separate fluid tanks for fluid dispensing and fluid intake obsolete.The further fluid tank according to the invention serves simultaneously to store the fluid to be discharged and the fluid received, wherein the proportions of the volumes provided for this purpose in relation to the total available tank volume, i.e., the fluid receiving tank volume and the fluid discharge tank volume, are variable by means of the movement of the separating device. The fluid discharge tank volume decreases over the duration of the wet cleaning process and with an increasing amount of fluid discharged, while simultaneously the fluid receiving tank volume increases to accommodate an increasing amount of fluid over the duration of the wet cleaning process. The decrease in the fluid discharge tank volume with the simultaneous increase in the fluid receiving tank volume is effected by the aforementioned movement of the separating device. To change the volumes, the separating device can, in principle, be translationally, rotationally, and / or pivotally movable.The separating device is arranged at least partially or partially within the tank volume. In one embodiment, the movement of the separating device is effected by a separate drive. In another embodiment, the movement is effected by manual actuation. In a further embodiment of the invention, the movement occurs automatically when fluid flows out of the fluid discharge tank volume and / or fluid flows into the fluid receiving tank volume. In one embodiment of the invention, the entire separating device is movable. In a further embodiment, only a section, a component, and / or a part of the separating device is movable for changing the fluid discharge tank volume and the fluid receiving tank volume.

[0123] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separating device is configured such that an outflow of fluid from the fluid discharge tank volume and / or an inflow of fluid into the fluid receiving tank volume causes the movement of the separating device. In this embodiment of the invention, the separating device is movable under the influence of the outflowing and / or inflowing fluid. This eliminates the need for a separate drive or manual actuation to move the separating device. For example, the outflow of fluid from the fluid discharge tank volume can create a negative pressure in the fluid discharge tank volume, which moves the separating device to reduce the fluid discharge tank volume while simultaneously increasing the fluid receiving tank volume.Alternatively or additionally, an overpressure can be created in the fluid receiving tank volume by an inflow of fluid, or an increasing weight of the inflowing fluid can act on the separation device, so that the fluid receiving tank volume is increased and at the same time the fluid discharge tank volume is reduced.

[0124] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separating device comprises a separating element that is relatively movable and fluid-tight against an inner wall of the fluid tank, wherein a relative movement of the separating element is accompanied by a change in the fluid discharge tank volume and the fluid receiving tank volume. The fluid discharge tank volume and the fluid receiving tank volume are fluid-tightly separated from each other by means of the separating element. The separating element is relatively movable and fluid-tight against the inner wall of the fluid tank, in particular against the inner wall of a tank shell of the fluid tank. The said tank shell encloses the total available tank volume of the fluid tank, which is composed of the fluid receiving tank volume and the fluid discharge tank volume. A relative movement of the separating element along the inner wall causes the fluid discharge tank volume to decrease and, simultaneously, the fluid receiving tank volume to increase.The relative movement of the separating element is guided along the inner wall. For this purpose, the separating element can be supported directly or indirectly on the inner wall in a way that allows relative movement. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid tank can have a guide device for guiding the relative movement of the separating element.

[0125] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separating element is translationally movable. In one embodiment, the separating element is translationally movable along a longitudinal axis of the fluid tank relative to the inner wall. In a further embodiment, the separating element is movable relative to a transverse axis of the fluid tank relative to the inner wall.

[0126] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separating element is relatively movable along a longitudinal axis of the fluid tank. In this embodiment, the fluid tank preferably extends longitudinally along the longitudinal axis. With an imaginary vertical orientation of the longitudinal axis, the separating element moves between an upper (proximal) end and a lower (distal) end of the fluid tank. Preferably, the tank inlet is arranged above the tank outlet, and the separating element moves from top to bottom to reduce the fluid discharge tank volume while simultaneously increasing the fluid intake tank volume. A reversed arrangement of the tank outlet and tank inlet with a correspondingly reversed direction of movement of the separating element is also possible.Preferably, the separating element is relatively movable over a movement distance that is at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80% of the total length of the fluid tank, in particular the tank volume and / or the tank shell.

[0127] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separating element has a disc-shaped and / or plate-shaped base body. This design enables a compact construction of the separating element. The base body serves in particular to accommodate and / or attach any further components and / or parts of the separating element or the separating device. Due to its disc and / or plate shape, the base body has a flat design with a low profile. This prevents the available tank volume from being excessively reduced by the volume occupied by the separating element.

[0128] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separating element has at least one sealing element, for example a sealing ring and / or a sealing lip, on its outer contour facing the inner wall. The sealing element rests against the inner wall in a fluid-tight and relatively movable manner. In one embodiment, the sealing element is formed integrally with the separating element. In another embodiment, the sealing element is a separate component that is fixed to the outer contour of the separating element, in particular to one or the base body of the separating element. The sealing element is preferably made of an elastomeric material, for example rubber, silicone, or the like. Preferably, two axially spaced sealing elements, for example sealing rings and / or sealing lips, are provided. The separating element is relatively movable translationally along the longitudinal axis of the fluid tank, meaning axially parallel to said longitudinal axis.Such a spaced arrangement of the at least two sealing elements prevents the separating element from tilting during movement along the inner wall and improves the guidance of the movement of the separating element.

[0129] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separating device comprises an elastically deformable separating element that is fluid-tightly attached to one or more of the inner walls of the fluid tank, wherein elastic deformation of the separating element is accompanied by a change in the fluid discharge tank volume and the fluid receiving tank volume. In this embodiment, the separating element is therefore not in a relatively movable position against the inner wall of the fluid tank. Instead, the separating element is rigidly connected to the inner wall and is elastically deformable to change the fluid discharge tank volume and the fluid receiving tank volume. Preferably, the elastically deformable separating element is a sealing membrane. The elastic separating element is deformed by the outflow of fluid from the fluid discharge tank volume and / or the inflow of fluid into the fluid receiving tank volume.The deformation causes a decrease in the fluid discharge tank volume and a simultaneous increase in the fluid intake tank volume and / or vice versa.

[0130] In a further embodiment of the invention, the tank volume is fixed. In principle, embodiments with variable tank volumes are also conceivable and possible. However, a fixed, unchanging tank volume is preferred.

[0131] In a further embodiment of the invention, the tank volume is a maximum of 10 liters, preferably a maximum of 8 liters, preferably a maximum of 6 liters, preferably a maximum of 5 liters, preferably a maximum of 4 liters, preferably a maximum of 3 liters, preferably a maximum of 2 liters, and most preferably between 0.5 liters and 2.0 liters. In this embodiment of the invention, the tank volume, and thus also the fluid tank, is comparatively small and compact. By limiting the tank volume to a maximum of 10 liters or one of the aforementioned maximum values, the dimensions of the fluid tank can be kept compact. The weight of the fluid tank is then also relatively low when filled and can be easily moved by a user. A tank volume between 0.5 liters and 2.0 liters has proven to be particularly advantageous, as it achieves both particularly compact dimensions and a particularly low weight.On the other hand, a tank volume between 0.5 and 2.0 liters still allows for a sufficient amount of fluid to dissolve and / or bind the dirt generated during wet cleaning. With a tank volume of less than 0.5 liters, the fluid will regularly become heavily contaminated after only a short period of wet cleaning. With a tank volume of more than 2.0 liters, the tank becomes noticeably heavy, making it difficult for some potential users to move and / or carry under all circumstances. The range of 0.5 to 2 liters therefore represents an optimum. In one design, the fluid discharge tank volume and the fluid intake tank volume can each be adjusted in opposite directions between 0 and 10 liters.In further embodiments, the volumes in question vary in opposite directions between 0 liters and 6 liters, more preferably between 0 liters and 5 liters, more preferably between 0 liters and 4 liters, more preferably between 0 liters and 3 liters, more preferably between 0 liters and 2 liters, more preferably between 0 liters and 0.5 liters.

[0132] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separating device is convertible between a connected state and a separated state, wherein in the connected state the fluid-tight separation between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet is eliminated, and wherein in the separated state the fluid-tight separation between the tank inlet and the tank outlet is formed or remains formed. The convertibility of the separating device between the connected state and the separated state serves to selectively connect and separate the fluid-conducting tank between the tank inlet and the tank outlet, and thus also between the fluid delivery tank volume and the fluid receiving tank volume. In the connected state, the tank inlet and the tank outlet, and thus also the fluid delivery tank volume and the fluid receiving tank volume, are fluid-conductingly connected to one another. This fluid-conducting connection allows the return of received fluid for redistribution onto the surface to be cleaned.In one embodiment of the invention, the separating device can be manually switched between the connected and disconnected states. Further embodiments provide for automatic switching and / or switching driven by an actuator, drive, or the like. In one embodiment of the invention, the separating device has a fluid control element that is movable between an open and a closed state. In the open state, the separating device assumes the connected state. In the closed state, the separating device assumes the disconnected state. In one embodiment, the separating device can be removed from the tank volume by the user. When removed, the separating device assumes the connected state. When not removed, the separating device assumes the disconnected state.

[0133] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separating device, in particular the separating element, comprises at least one fluid control element. The fluid control element can, for example, be a switching valve. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid control element is movable between an open state and a closed state. In the open state, the separating device assumes the connected state. In the closed state, the separating device assumes the separated state. The fluid control element can be moved between the open and closed states manually, by means of an actuator or motor, or automatically, for example, under the influence of fluid located in the tank volume.

[0134] In a further embodiment of the invention, the separating device, in particular the separating element, comprises a separating device designed to remove dirt from the fluid contained in the tank volume. Alternatively or additionally, the separating device, in particular the separating element, comprises a disinfection device designed to disinfect the fluid receiving tank volume, the fluid discharge tank volume, and / or fluid flowing between the tank inlet and the tank outlet. When fluid is recirculated, i.e., when the separating device is connected, the separating device serves to remove dirt from the received fluid. This allows the recirculated fluid to be discharged onto the surface to be cleaned with a reduced degree of contamination. Further features of the separating device are described in the preceding disclosure and the claims.For example, in one embodiment, the separation device includes a filter assembly. In one embodiment, the filter assembly comprises at least one screen filter with a mesh size between 0.06 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably between 0.09 mm and 0.3 mm, and particularly preferably between 0.125 mm and 0.25 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the filter assembly is integrated into the separation device, in particular the separating element. In a further embodiment, the filter assembly comprises several filters, one of which is integrated into the separation device, in particular the separating element, and another of which is arranged away from the separating element. The several filters are preferably screen filters. One of the several filters can be a coarse filter. Another of the several filters can be a fine filter.In a further embodiment, a filter cleaning device is provided, which is configured for cleaning the filter device. For further features of the filter cleaning device, reference is made to the preceding disclosure and the claims, and express reference is made to them. In a further embodiment, the separation device includes a centrifugation device, which is configured for centrifuging fluid flowing in the connection state between the tank inlet and the tank outlet. Regarding further features of the centrifugation device, reference is made to the preceding disclosure and the claims, and express reference is made to them. The separation device, in particular the separation element, may also include a disinfection device. Further features of the disinfection device are also apparent from the preceding disclosure and the claims. For example, the disinfection device may include a UV light source.The separating device, in particular the separating element, may also include a detection device. Further features of the detection device are also apparent from the preceding disclosure and the claims. For example, the detection device may include a sensor device.

[0135] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank is designed for attachment to a longitudinally extended guide section of the surface cleaning device and / or a base section of the surface cleaning device. Preferably, a removable attachment is provided. Attaching the fluid tank to the longitudinally extended guide section allows the weight and dimensions of the base section to be kept to a minimum. By attaching the fluid tank to the base section in sections or partially, the weight and volume of the fluid tank can be distributed evenly, both between the guide section and the base section. The removable attachment makes cleaning or replacing the fluid tank particularly easy.Preferably, the guide section of the surface cleaning device extends longitudinally between a proximal end and a distal end and is designed for manual guidance of the surface cleaning device over the surface to be cleaned. More preferably, the base section of the surface cleaning device is connected to the distal end of the guide section. During wet cleaning, the base section rests on or against the surface to be cleaned.

[0136] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank is designed to be carried on the user's body and / or attached to a carrying device, the carrying device being designed for carrying on the user's body. Carrying the fluid tank on the user's body allows the dimensions and weight of the surface cleaning device to be kept low. This applies in particular to the guide section and / or the base section of the surface cleaning device. Carrying the fluid tank on the user's body offers advantages, especially when wet cleaning inclined, and in particular, vertical surfaces, since in this case the weight of the fluid tank does not have to be moved along the inclined, and in particular vertical, surface together with the surface cleaning device.Attaching the fluid tank to the guide section and / or the base section can offer advantages when wet cleaning horizontal surfaces, as this increases the contact pressure of the base section and any tool assembly due to the weight of the fluid tank and the fluid it contains. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid tank can be optionally attached to the base section, the guide section, and / or the aforementioned carrying device. This allows the user to decide how to carry the fluid tank, depending on the cleaning task. The carrying device could, for example, be a backpack for carrying on the user's back. Alternatively, the carrying device could be a belt for wearing around the user's hips and / or shoulders.

[0137] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank, in particular its tank volume and / or a tank shell forming the tank volume, is designed in the form of a longitudinally elongated hollow cylinder. Preferably, a design in the form of a tube is provided. The longitudinally elongated hollow cylindrical design of the fluid tank offers particular advantages when the fluid tank is designed for attachment to the longitudinally elongated guide element or for carrying on the user's body. When attached to the guide element, the longitudinally elongated hollow cylindrical design allows for compact dimensions and an advantageous weight distribution. The same applies when the longitudinally elongated hollow cylindrical fluid tank is carried on the user's body. The longitudinally elongated hollow cylinder has a different cross-sectional shape depending on the embodiment. In principle, the hollow cylinder can have a square, rounded, oval, or circular cross-section.Furthermore, it is understood that the cross-section of the hollow cylinder can vary along its longitudinal axis. The aforementioned design as a tube or pipe is particularly preferred. Tubes are readily available on the market in various diameters, wall thicknesses, and other properties. This allows for particularly simple manufacturing of the fluid tank or tank shell. With a hollow cylindrical, especially tubular, design of the tank shell, the fluid tank preferably has a tank cap or other closures for sealing the end face of the tank shell. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid tank is made of plastic. A hollow cylindrical, especially tubular, design combined with plastic construction is particularly advantageous.

[0138] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank, in particular its tank volume and / or the tank shell forming the tank volume, comprises several parts that are fluid-tightly joined together along a longitudinal axis of the fluid tank. Such a multi-part design achieves a modular structure of the fluid tank, especially the tank shell. In a preferred embodiment, the tank shell consists of these several parts. When assembled, the several parts enclose the tank volume. In a preferred embodiment, each of the several parts is a hollow cylinder section, specifically a pipe section. In one embodiment, the several parts are identical.In a further embodiment, the multiple parts differ with respect to at least one property, such as the enclosed tank volume, diameter, cross-section, length, material used, or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the multiple parts are fluid-tightly connected along the longitudinal axis. In this case, immediately adjacent parts are connected by means of a plug connection, which in a particularly preferred embodiment is a bayonet connection or bayonet lock. However, other joining methods are also conceivable instead of such a plug connection. For example, the multiple parts can be screwed together or snapped into place. Due to the modular design of the fluid tank, especially the tank shell, the tank volume can be easily adjusted.To reduce the tank volume, fewer parts can be used. To increase the tank volume, a larger number of parts can be used.

[0139] In a further embodiment of the invention, the several parts are detachably joined, in particular by being plugged together. This detachable assembly allows the user to easily adjust the tank volume. To increase the tank volume, another part can be inserted. To decrease the tank volume, one or more parts can be removed. Furthermore, the detachable connection of the parts allows for particularly easy cleaning of the fluid tank and any equipment located within the tank.

[0140] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid tank, in particular the tank shell forming the tank volume, is made at least partially, preferably entirely, of a transparent material, especially plastic. This allows the user to easily determine the degree of contamination of the fluid from the outside without opening the fluid tank. Preferably, the fluid tank is made at least predominantly of the transparent material. More preferably, the fluid tank is made entirely of the transparent material. Manufacturing from transparent plastic is preferred. As an alternative, partial manufacturing from shatterproof glass is conceivable and possible.

[0141] The surface cleaning system according to the invention comprises a base station and a surface cleaning device according to the invention, which is optionally equipped with one of the fluid tanks according to the invention. The base station is designed to accommodate the surface cleaning device and includes a fluid system for emptying, filling, and / or rinsing the fluid path and / or the fluid tank of the surface cleaning device. The base station serves to store the surface cleaning device. For this purpose, the base station is designed to accommodate the surface cleaning device. Furthermore, the base station allows for emptying, filling, and / or rinsing the fluid path and / or the fluid tank of the surface cleaning device. For this purpose, the base station includes the fluid system. Preferably, the fluid system is designed for automatic emptying, filling, and / or rinsing.

[0142] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid system comprises a fluid connection device configured for a fluid-conducting connection with the fluid path, fluid intake, fluid output, and / or fluid tank of the surface cleaning device. Preferably, the fluid connection device is configured for automatic fluid-conducting connection. For example, the base station can have a detection device that recognizes whether the surface cleaning device is attached to the base station or not. If the surface cleaning device is detected, the fluid connection device can automatically establish the aforementioned fluid-conducting connection.

[0143] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fluid system comprises a tank system with a dirty liquid tank, a fresh liquid tank, and / or a rinsing liquid tank. The dirty liquid tank can be connected to the fluid path, in particular the fluid tank, by means of the fluid connection device. The dirty liquid tank serves to receive dirty liquid from the fluid path, in particular the fluid tank. The fresh liquid tank can be connected to the fluid path, in particular the fluid tank, by means of the fluid connection device. The fresh liquid tank serves as a reservoir for fresh liquid to refill the fluid path, in particular the fluid tank. The rinsing liquid tank can be connected to the fluid path, in particular the fluid tank, by means of the fluid connection device. The rinsing liquid tank serves to discharge rinsing liquid into the fluid path, in particular the fluid tank.Optionally, the dispensed rinsing fluid can be returned to the rinsing fluid tank. Disposal of used rinsing fluid in the dirty fluid tank is also conceivable and possible. Alternatively or additionally to the tank system, the fluid system can have one or more fixed water connections, for example, a fresh water connection and / or a wastewater connection.

[0144] In a further embodiment of the invention, the base station has a holding device designed for detachable mechanical coupling with the surface cleaning device, in particular the guide section and / or the base section of the surface cleaning device, and by means of which the surface cleaning device is held to the base station, particularly when the base station is being moved. The holding device serves to hold the surface cleaning device to the base station. For this purpose, the holding device is designed for detachable mechanical coupling with the surface cleaning device. For example, the holding device can be configured to form a snap-fit, plug-in, clamp, or other detachable mechanical connection with the surface cleaning device, in particular the guide section and / or the base section.

[0145] In a further embodiment of the invention, the base station has a propulsion device that enables manual or motor-driven movement of the base station. The propulsion device allows the base station to be moved. This allows the position of the base station on or relative to the surface to be changed. In particular, the base station can be moved along with the surface cleaning device during wet cleaning. For this purpose, the propulsion device allows for manual and / or motor-driven movement. In a preferred embodiment, the propulsion device has several wheels, rollers, or the like, which are supported on the surface to be cleaned and allow the base station to move along them.

[0146] A method is provided for cleaning a surface using a surface cleaning device, in particular a surface cleaning device as described above. The surface to be cleaned is preferably a floor surface, for example, a floor surface in a building, such as a hard floor or carpet. The method comprises the following steps: dispensing fluid onto the surface by means of a fluid dispensing device of the surface cleaning device; receiving the dispensed fluid by means of a fluid intake device of the surface cleaning device; conveying the received fluid by means of a conveying device of the surface cleaning device, wherein the fluid is conveyed along a fluid path of the surface cleaning device.which connects the fluid intake for the return of the absorbed fluid with the fluid discharge; discharge of the returned fluid onto the surface by means of the fluid discharge. The method allows for particularly resource-efficient and environmentally friendly wet cleaning of surfaces. For this purpose, the fluid used for wet cleaning, after being absorbed from the surface by means of the fluid intake, is conveyed via the fluid path of the surface cleaning device to its fluid discharge and discharged (again) onto the surface to be cleaned by means of this. Further advantages of the method become apparent, mutatis mutandis, from the disclosure of the surface cleaning device according to the invention, to which explicit reference is made. Further optional steps of the method become apparent from the disclosure of the surface cleaning device according to the invention, the fluid tanks according to the invention,of the surface cleaning system according to the invention and its respective embodiments. The following are merely examples of some optional process steps: Acting on the surface to be cleaned by means of a tool assembly of the surface cleaning device, in particular by means of a movable tool of the surface cleaning device; Discharging the fluid to be dispensed from a fluid tank of the surface cleaning device and introducing the collected fluid into the fluid tank; Separating dirt from the collected fluid by means of a separation device of the surface cleaning device, in particular by means of a filter device and / or a centrifugation device of the separation device; Disinfecting the fluid path, in particular the fluid tank, of the surface cleaning device by means of a disinfection device of the surface cleaning device.in particular, wherein UV light is emitted by means of a UV light source of the disinfection device; interruption of the fluid return by means of a blocking device and / or a separating device of the surface cleaning device; manual control of a direction of movement of a bottom part of the surface cleaning device, wherein the direction of movement of the bottom part is controlled by action on a longitudinally extended guide part of the surface cleaning device, wherein the longitudinally extended guide part and the bottom part are connected to each other by means of a connecting device, in particular a gimbal connection, in such a way that they are movably relative to each other, wherein a rotation of the guide part about its longitudinal axis causes a rotation of the bottom part about its vertical axis. It is understood thatthat embodiments of the method may include the aforementioned optional process steps individually or in any combination. Further features of the optional process steps will become apparent from the disclosure of the surface cleaning device, the fluid tanks according to the invention, the surface cleaning system according to the invention, and their embodiments.

[0147] A method is provided for converting a surface cleaning machine, wherein the surface cleaning machine is configured for wet cleaning a surface and is designed, in particular, as a scrubber-dryer. The method comprises the following steps: disconnecting a first fluid-conducting connection of the surface cleaning machine, wherein the first fluid-conducting connection is formed between a fluid intake of the surface cleaning machine and a dirty water tank of the surface cleaning machine; disconnecting a second fluid-conducting connection of the surface cleaning machine, wherein the second fluid-conducting connection is formed between a fluid outlet of the surface cleaning machine and a fresh water tank of the surface cleaning machine; removing the fresh water tank and / or the dirty water tank, in particular wherein the fresh water tank and / or the dirty water tank is removed from a guide part of the surface cleaning machine;Attaching a fluid tank according to the preceding description, in particular wherein the fluid tank is attached to a guide part, a base part and / or a support device of the surface cleaning device; fluid-conducting connection of a tank inlet of the fluid tank to the fluid intake of the surface cleaning device; fluid-conducting connection of a tank outlet of the fluid tank to the fluid discharge point.

[0148] Further advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the claims and from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, which are illustrated with reference to the drawings.

[0149] They show: Fig. 1 in schematic block representation an embodiment of a surface cleaning device according to the invention, Fig. 2 in schematic block representation a further embodiment of a surface cleaning device according to the invention, Fig. 3 in schematic side view a further embodiment of a surface cleaning device according to the invention, Fig. 4 in schematic block representation a tool device, a fluid discharge, a fluid intake, a fluid path and a conveying device of the surface cleaning device according to Fig. 3, Fig. 5 in schematic block representation which in Fig. 4 components of the surface cleaning device shown, together with other optional components / equipment of the surface cleaning device, Fig. 6 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a surface cleaning device according to the invention, Fig. 7 a perspective detail view of the surface cleaning device after Fig. 6 in the area of ​​a floor section, Fig. 8 the detailed view after Fig. 7 in a viewing direction rotated by approximately 180°, Fig. 9 a perspective detail view of the surface cleaning device according to the Fig. 6 to 8 in the area of ​​an upper housing assembly of a guide part with the fluid tank removed, Fig. 10 a perspective sectional view in the area of ​​the upper housing assembly with attached fluid tank and through an upper tank lid of the fluid tank, Fig. 11 a perspective and partially cut-out view of the upper fuel tank cap, Fig. 12 to 16 different perspective views of an embodiment of a surface cleaning device according to the invention to illustrate the maneuverability of the surface cleaning device during wet cleaning of a surface, Fig. 17 an embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention for a surface cleaning device in a simplified schematic sectional view, wherein the fluid tank has a locking device represented as a functional block, Fig. 18 another embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a specifically designed locking device, wherein the locking device assumes a locked state, Fig. 19 the fluid tank after Fig. 18, wherein the locking device assumes a release state, Fig. 20 another embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention in a simplified schematic sectional view, wherein the fluid tank has a separation device represented as a functional block, Fig. 21 an embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a specifically designed separation device, wherein the separation device comprises a filter device and / or a centrifugation device, each of which is represented as a functional block, Fig. 22 an embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a filter device, wherein the filter device comprises a first filter and a second filter, Fig. 23 the fluid tank after Fig. 22 in an exploded view, Fig. 24 another embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with filter device, wherein the filter device comprises a coarse filter and a fine filter. Fig. 25 another embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with filter device and with a filter cleaning device, Fig. 26 Another embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a filter device and with a filter cleaning device, wherein the filter cleaning device comprises a cleaning element and a movement mechanism, Fig. 27, Fig. 28 further embodiments of the fluid tank according to Fig. 26 each with a specifically designed filter cleaning system, Fig. 29 in schematic sectional view along a section line Q'-Q' according to Fig. 21 another embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a centrifugation device having a stationary fluid guide element, Fig. 30 in schematic sectional view along a section line Q'-Q' according to Fig. 21 another embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a centrifugation device comprising a rotatably movable fluid guide element, Fig. 31 in a schematically simplified sectional view a further embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a disinfection device represented as a functional block, Fig. 32 another embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with disinfection device, wherein the disinfection device comprises a UV light source arranged outside a tank volume of the fluid tank, Fig. 33 another embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with disinfection device, wherein its UV light source is arranged in the tank volume, Fig. 34 the fluid tank after Fig. 33 in exploded view, Fig. 35 in a schematically simplified sectional view a further embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a connecting section for mechanical and / or fluid-conducting connection with a suction device of the conveying device of the surface cleaning device, Fig. 36 in exploded view of the fluid tank after Fig. 35 together with the suction device, Fig. 37 in a schematically simplified sectional view a further embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a separating device shown as a functional block, Fig. 38, Fig. 39, Fig. 40 schematically simplified sectional views of a further embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a separating device, wherein the separating device has a separating element that is movably arranged between different positions in the tank volume, Fig. 41 a schematic sectional view of the movable separating element, Fig. 42, Fig. 43, Fig. 44 schematically simplified sectional views of further fluid tanks according to the invention with a separating device, wherein the separating elements are designed differently and / or are movable, Fig. 45 in schematic block representation a further embodiment of a separating device for a fluid tank according to the invention, wherein the separating device has a movable separating element and a locking device, Fig. 46 another schematic representation of the separating device according to Fig. 45, Fig. 47 an embodiment of the separation device, wherein the separation device, in addition to the locking device, comprises a separation device, a detection device and / or a disinfection device, each of which is represented as a generic functional block, Fig. 48, Fig. 49, Fig. 50 in a schematically simplified sectional view another embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a separating device, wherein the separating element is elastically deformable and assumes different deformation states, Fig. 51 in a schematically simplified sectional view a further embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention, Fig. 52 the fluid tank after Fig. 51 along a section line QQ according to Fig. 51, Fig. 53 In a schematically simplified sectional view, a further embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention with a modular structure, Fig. 54 the fluid tank after Fig. 53 in exploded view, Fig. 55 a simplified side view of a surface cleaning device not according to the invention, with a fresh water tank and a separate dirty water tank, Fig. 56 a schematic side view of a further embodiment of a surface cleaning device according to the invention, which uses an embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention and the non-inventive surface cleaning device according to Fig. 55 is formed, Fig. 57 in schematic block representation an arrangement with an embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention and an additional tank, Fig. 58 in schematic block representation an embodiment of a surface cleaning system according to the invention with a surface cleaning device and a base station, Fig. 59 in schematic block representation an embodiment of a method for wet cleaning a surface using a surface cleaning device.

[0150] According to Fig. 1 is a surface cleaning device 1 for wet cleaning a surface S. The surface S to be cleaned is, in this case, a floor surface S', for example, a floor surface in a building, such as, in particular, a hard floor or carpet.

[0151] The surface cleaning device 1 is in Fig. 1 schematically simplified representation and features a tool device 300, a fluid discharge 400, a fluid intake 500, a fluid path 600 and a conveying device 700.

[0152] The tool assembly 300 is configured to act on surface S. The fluid outlet 400 is configured to discharge fluid F onto surface S. The fluid intake 500 is configured to receive fluid F from surface S. The fluid path 600 connects the fluid intake 500 to the fluid outlet 400 via a fluid-conducting system. The conveying device 700 is configured to convey fluid F along the fluid path 600. This allows fluid F, received by the fluid intake 500, to be returned along the fluid path 600 to the fluid outlet 400 via the conveying device 700 and then discharged onto surface S.

[0153] For wet cleaning of surface S, the surface cleaning device 1 can be moved across surface S along a direction of movement B. During this process, surface S is moistened with the dispensed fluid F. To loosen dirt from surface S, the tool assembly 300 acts upon the surface. Moistening surface S improves dirt removal and binding of the loosened dirt. The previously applied fluid F, along with the loosened dirt, is then collected by the fluid intake 500 and conveyed by the conveyor 700 along the fluid path 600 to the fluid outlet 400 for redelivery.

[0154] The aforementioned fluid recirculation reduces the fluid consumption required for wet cleaning. Furthermore, a separate fluid tank for storing fluid is generally unnecessary, specifically the separate fresh and dirty water tanks typically found in other technologies. This allows the surface cleaning unit 1 to be designed to be particularly compact and lightweight. The compact and lightweight design also simplifies handling of the surface cleaning unit 1 by a single user. Specifically, the surface cleaning unit 1 can be moved with reduced effort. The fluid recirculation also enables improved cleaning results at the same or even increased cleaning speed (area cleaned per unit of time). The cleaning result is primarily determined by the amount of fluid dispensed per unit of time (dispensing rate). In principle, higher dispensing rates lead to better cleaning results.In previously known surface cleaning devices without fluid recirculation and with separate fresh water and wastewater tanks, the discharge rate is limited by design. This applies to surface cleaning device 1 according to... Fig. This is not the case with device 1. Furthermore, the surface cleaning device 1 allows for increased cleaning speed, as refilling the dispensed fluid and disposing of the collected fluid are essentially unnecessary. This saves time and effort.

[0155] In the embodiment according to Fig. In addition to the tool assembly 300, the fluid dispensing unit 400, the fluid intake unit 500, the fluid path 600, and the conveying unit 700, the surface cleaning device 1 also includes further components and / or devices 100, 200, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, and 1800. These optional components and / or devices each offer particular advantages, both individually and in combination.

[0156] The aforementioned optional components and / or devices are a guide part 100, a bottom part 200, a fluid reservoir 800, a fluid tank 900, a carrying device 1000, a locking device 1100, a separating device 1200, a separating device 1300, a detection device 1400, a disinfection device 1500, a power supply device 1600, a thrust device 1700 and a connecting device 1800.

[0157] The guide element 100 is designed for manually guiding the surface cleaning device 1 during wet cleaning of the surface S and can also be referred to as a hand guide element. Therefore, in configurations with a guide element 100, the surface cleaning device can also be described as hand-guided. In preferred configurations, the guide element 100 extends longitudinally between a proximal end and a distal end. The longitudinal design of the base section allows the user to maintain an upright posture even when cleaning floor surfaces S'.

[0158] The base section 200 rests against surface S during wet cleaning and can also be referred to as the surface cleaning head. In configurations with a guide section 100, the base section 200 is connected to the distal end of the guide section 100. In configurations without a guide section, the base section can be designed, for example, for autonomous, electric, or electronic guidance. Autonomous guidance can be achieved, for example, through artificial intelligence and / or remote control, such as via a local (wireless) or mobile data network.

[0159] The tool assembly 300, the fluid outlet 400, the fluid intake 500, the fluid path 600, and the conveying device 700 can each be arranged on the guide part 100 and / or on the base part 200. The tool assembly 300, the fluid outlet 400, and the fluid intake 500 are preferably arranged on the base part 200.

[0160] The fluid reservoir 800 has a reservoir volume 801, a reservoir inlet 802 which is or can be connected to the fluid intake 500 via a fluid-conducting connection, and a reservoir outlet 803 which is or can be connected to the fluid discharge 400 via a fluid-conducting connection. The reservoir inlet 802 and the reservoir outlet 803 are fluid-conductingly connected to each other via the reservoir volume 801. The reservoir volume 801 serves as a storage or buffer for the fluid F to be discharged and received. During wet cleaning, fluid F received by the fluid intake 500 is introduced into the reservoir volume 801 via the reservoir inlet 802 and from there discharged from the reservoir volume 801 via the reservoir outlet 803 for re-discharge by means of the fluid discharge 400. The fluid reservoir 800 is designed differently in different embodiments, specifically as a fluid tank 900 or an arrangement of several fluid tanks.Alternatively or additionally, the reservoir volume 801 can be formed at least sectionally by cross-sections and / or cavities of the guide part 100, the bottom part and / or the tool device 300.

[0161] The fluid tank 900 has a tank volume 901, a tank inlet 802, and a tank outlet 903. The tank inlet 902 is fluidly connected or connectable to the fluid intake 500. The tank outlet 903 is fluidly connected or connectable to the fluid discharge 400. The tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903 are fluidly connected or connectable to each other via the tank volume 901. The fluid tank 900 can be considered a special embodiment of the fluid reservoir 800. The fluid tank 900 can, in principle, have any design suitable for the present purpose. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid tank 900 is detachably attached to the guide element 100. However, attachment to the base element 200 and / or the optional support device 1000 is also conceivable and possible.

[0162] In the embodiment shown, the reservoir volume 801, specifically the tank volume 901, is 2 liters. In other embodiments, the reservoir volume 801, specifically the tank volume 901, is a maximum of 10 liters.

[0163] The fluid reservoir 800, specifically the fluid tank 900, is made at least partially of a transparent material, in this case a transparent plastic K. The fluid reservoir 800 can have several fluid-conducting or connectable sub-reservoirs. The same applies to the fluid tank 900. In this case, however, the fluid reservoir 800, specifically the fluid tank 900, is a single container.

[0164] The carrying device 1000 is designed to be carried on the user's body and is specifically configured as a backpack device 1001 or a belt device 1002. The backpack device 1001 can be worn on the user's back. The belt device 1002 can be worn around the user's hips and / or shoulders. The carrying device 1000 serves to accommodate further components and / or equipment of the surface cleaning device 1. For example, the conveyor device 700, the fluid reservoir 800 and / or the fluid tank 900, as well as the power supply device 1600, in particular its at least one energy storage unit 1601, can be designed to be carried on the carrying device 1000.

[0165] The shut-off device 1100 allows for the selective interruption or blocking of fluid return. For this purpose, the shut-off device 1100 can be switched between an open state and a closed state. In the open state, fluid return is maintained. In the closed state, fluid return is interrupted by means of the shut-off device 1100. For this purpose, the fluid-conducting connection between the fluid inlet 500 and the fluid outlet 400 is blocked by the shut-off device 1100. In configurations without a fluid reservoir 800 and / or fluid tank 900, the shut-off device 1100 interrupts the fluid path 600. In configurations with a fluid reservoir 800 and / or fluid tank 900, the shut-off device 1100 is designed for the fluid-tight separation of the reservoir inlet 802 and the reservoir outlet 803, specifically the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903.This function of the shut-off device 1100 is illustrated by the dashed lines drawn in the reservoir volume 801 and the tank volume 901. When the shut-off device 1100 is in the closed position, the reservoir volume 801 is divided into a fluid discharge reservoir volume 8011 and a fluid intake reservoir volume 8012. The fluid discharge reservoir volume 8011 has the reservoir outlet 803 and is separated from the reservoir inlet 802 by means of the shut-off device 1100. The fluid intake reservoir volume 8012 has the reservoir inlet 802 and is separated from the reservoir outlet 803 by means of the shut-off device 1100. The same applies, mutatis mutandis, to a subdivision of the tank volume 901 into a fluid discharge tank volume 9011 and a fluid intake tank volume 9012.

[0166] The separation device 1200 also serves to divide the reservoir volume 801, specifically the tank volume 901, into the aforementioned partial volumes 8011, 8012 and 9011, 9012, respectively. The separation device 1200 allows for a variable subdivision according to the proportions of the total available volume 801, 901, whereby the discharge volumes 8011, 9011 and the intake volumes 8012, 9012 vary during the wet cleaning process. As the fluid discharge reservoir volume 8011 decreases, the fluid intake reservoir volume 8012 increases. The same applies to the fluid discharge tank volume 9011 and the fluid intake tank volume 9012.

[0167] The separator 1300 is designed to separate dirt from the fluid F received by the fluid intake 500. The separator 1300 removes dirt from the fluid and reduces its degree of contamination. The separator 1300 can be located at any point or at several points along the fluid path 600. In configurations with a fluid reservoir 800, dirt separation by the separator 1300 can occur upstream of the reservoir volume 801 (upstream), downstream of the reservoir volume 801 (downstream), and / or within the reservoir volume 801. The same applies to dirt separation in relation to the tank volume 901 in configurations with a fluid tank 901. In the illustrated embodiment, the separator 1300 includes a filter unit 1301.Alternatively or additionally, the separator 1300 includes a centrifuge 1350. The filter unit 1301 is designed to filter the fluid F. The centrifuge 1350 is designed to generate centrifugal forces in the fluid F.

[0168] The detection device 1400 is configured to detect the degree of contamination G of the fluid F received by means of the fluid intake 500. In a particularly simple embodiment, the detection device 1400 has a sight glass or the like arranged in the fluid path 600, through which the user can visually determine the degree of contamination G. In the embodiment shown, the detection device 1400 has a sensor device 1401, which is configured to measure the degree of contamination G and to output a sensor signal 1402 representing the degree of contamination G. The sensor signal 1402 can be controlled by an optional control device 1900 of the surface cleaning device 1 (see Fig. 6) processed and output as a signal perceptible to the user. Alternatively or additionally, further components and / or devices of the surface cleaning device 1 can be controlled depending on the sensor signal 1402.

[0169] The disinfection device 1500 is configured for disinfecting at least sections of the fluid path 600 and / or the fluid F flowing therein. In embodiments with a fluid reservoir 800, specifically a fluid tank 900, the disinfection device 1500 is preferably configured for disinfecting the reservoir volume 801, specifically the tank volume 901. In a particularly simple embodiment, the disinfection device 1500 is formed by a section of the fluid path 600 that is made of or coated with an antibacterial material. In the illustrated embodiment, the disinfection device 1500 has at least one UV light source 1501. The UV light source 1501 is configured to emit UV light and can, in principle, be arranged at any point along the fluid path 600, upstream, downstream, and / or in the reservoir volume 801, specifically the tank volume 901.

[0170] The power supply unit 1600 provides electrical operating energy to the surface cleaning device 1. At least the tool assembly 300 and the conveyor assembly 700 can be supplied with electrical operating energy by means of the power supply unit 1600. In the illustrated embodiment, the power supply unit 1600 also serves to provide energy to any further (optional) components, for example, the sensor assembly 1401 and the UV light source 1501. In the illustrated embodiment, the power supply unit 1600 has at least one energy storage device 1601 in the form of a rechargeable battery. In embodiments with a guide part 100, a base part 200, or a support device 1000, the energy storage device 1601 can be attached to the guide part 100, the base part 200, and / or the support device 100. A removable attachment is preferred.Furthermore, the energy storage device 1601 can be optionally attached to the base part 100, the guide part 200, and the carrying device 1000, so that the user can decide, depending on the cleaning task, on which of the aforementioned components / devices 100, 200, or 1000 the energy storage device 1601 should be attached to and carried during wet cleaning. In an embodiment not shown in the figures, the energy supply device has several energy storage devices, which can supply the same or different components / devices with energy. The multiple energy storage devices can each be arranged on the base part, the guide part, or the carrying device. For example, one energy storage device on the base part can supply energy to the tool device, and another energy storage device on the guide part can supply energy to the disinfection device and / or the sensor device.

[0171] The thrust device 1700 is designed to generate a thrust force V along a thrust direction R. This thrust force V assists the manual movement of the surface cleaning device 1. If the thrust force V is sufficiently strong, the movement of the surface cleaning device 1 can also be driven solely by the thrust device 1700. In this case, the user can limit themselves to controlling the direction R of the movement B, for example, by guiding the direction R via the guide element 100. Such thrust (thrust force along the thrust direction) can also be generated using the tool device 300, as will be explained in more detail below. The thrust device 1700 can be used as an alternative to, or in addition to, a tool device designed to generate thrust.

[0172] The connecting device 1800 serves as a relatively movable connection between the guide part 100 and the base part 200. The connecting device 1800 is designed such that the direction of movement B, specifically the forward direction R, can be controlled by moving the guide part 100 relative to the base part 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting device 1800 forms a gimbal connection 1801 between the guide part 100 and the base part 200. As will be explained in more detail below, the gimbal connection 1801 allows for particularly simple and intuitive maneuvering of the surface cleaning device 1. That is, the direction of movement B, in particular the forward direction R, of the base part 200 can be controlled particularly easily and intuitively by manually moving the guide part 100 via the gimbal connection 1801.

[0173] In the illustrated embodiment, the conveying device 700 comprises a pumping device 701 and a suction device 750. In embodiments with a fluid reservoir 800, the pumping device 701 is arranged downstream of the reservoir outlet 803 and is configured to pump fluid F from the reservoir volume 801 through the fluid discharge 400 via the reservoir outlet 803. The same applies to embodiments with a fluid tank 900. The suction device 750 is configured to generate a vacuum within the fluid reservoir 801 in order to draw fluid F from the fluid intake 500 through the reservoir inlet 802 into the reservoir volume 801. The same applies to embodiments with a fluid tank 900. In an embodiment not shown in the figures, the suction device 750 is configured for (optional) carrying on the user's body by means of the carrying device 1000.

[0174] The Fig. Figures 3 to 5 show a further exemplary embodiment of a surface cleaning device according to the invention 1.

[0175] According to Fig. 3. The surface cleaning device 1 comprises a guide part 100, a base part 200, a fluid discharge 400, a fluid intake 500, a fluid path 600, a conveying device with a pumping device 701 and a suction device 750, a fluid tank 900, a separating device 1300, a power supply device 1600, and a connecting device 1800. The basic function and design of the aforementioned components and / or devices of the surface cleaning device 1 are described in relation to the embodiment according to the Fig. Sections 3 to 5 are not explained in detail again. Instead, reference is made to the disclosure regarding the embodiments according to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Reference is made to and express reference is made to the information already disclosed therein. This also applies to the embodiment according to the Fig. 3 to 5, unless otherwise described.

[0176] Further regarding Fig. 3 The guide element 100 extends longitudinally along a longitudinal axis 101 between a proximal end 102 and a distal end 103. At its proximal end 102, the guide element 100 has a handle 1021. The distal end 103 faces the base element 200 and thus also the surface S to be cleaned, which in this case is a floor surface S' extending in an XY plane.

[0177] The base part 200 is arranged at the distal end 103 of the guide part 100 and is connected to the guide part 100 by means of the connecting device 1800.

[0178] The connecting device 1800 forms a gimbal connection 1801. In the embodiment shown, the connecting device 1800 has a first pivot axis 1802 and a second pivot axis 1803. The two pivot axes 1802, 1803 can be axes in the geometric sense or physically existing axes. The mobility of the guide part 100 relative to the base part 200 resulting from the gimbal connection 1801, and the resulting controllability of the direction of movement B of the base part 200, will be described in detail below. Fig. Explained in sections 12 to 16.

[0179] The tool assembly 300 is arranged on the base part 200 and comprises at least one movable tool 301 and a drive motor 302. As can be seen from the Fig. 4 and Fig. As will be explained in section 5, two tools are present. The at least one tool 301 can be driven by the drive 302 to perform a rotary tool movement. In embodiments not shown in the figures, the tool assembly can have oscillating translational and / or eccentrically driven tools. The driven tool movement of the at least one tool 301 is relative to the base part 200. The driven tool movement loosens dirt from the surface S.

[0180] In the embodiment shown, the at least one tool 301 is a scrubbing tool 303 designed for wet scrubbing of the surface S. The surface cleaning device 1 is designed as a scrubber dryer 1'.

[0181] The at least one tool 301 can, for example, be a roller tool 304 or a disc tool 305, the latter being the case in the embodiment specifically shown. Any roller tool 304 is driven rotaryally about a horizontal axis of rotation. The disc tool 305 shown is driven rotaryally about a vertical axis of rotation.

[0182] The fluid dispensing device 400 has at least one outlet opening 401 through which fluid can be dispensed onto the surface S to be cleaned. In all embodiments, the fluid F is not dispensed directly from the outlet opening onto the surface S, but can also be dispensed indirectly via the tool assembly. For example, by first applying the fluid to the movable tool and then transferring it to the surface S. The in Fig. The arrangement of the fluid discharge 400 and its outlet opening 401 shown in Figure 3 is therefore to be understood as purely exemplary. The outlet opening 401 is arranged in front of the movable tool 301 and the fluid intake 500 with respect to the direction of movement B, which can specifically be a thrust direction R. In an embodiment not shown in the figures, the fluid discharge occurs through the tool assembly, for example, through a rotary axis of the at least one disc tool.

[0183] Further according to Fig. Figure 3 shows that the fluid intake 500 has a suction bar 501 arranged and / or attached to the base part 200. During wet cleaning, the suction bar 501 rests on the surface S. In the illustrated embodiment, the suction bar 501 is movable relative to the tool assembly 300 in a manner not shown in detail, and can therefore be lifted from the surface S, particularly in a vertical direction Z. By lifting the suction bar 501, the surface S can first be pre-scoured without receiving any fluid. After pre-scouring, the suction bar 501 can be placed against the surface S and the previously applied fluid, along with the dirt loosened from the surface S, can be collected.

[0184] In the embodiment shown, the suction strip 501 has a first sealing lip 502, a second sealing lip 503, and a suction channel 504 formed between the first sealing lip 502 and the second sealing lip 503. The first sealing lip 502 can be distinguished with respect to the Fig. The direction of movement B shown in Figure 3 can also be referred to as the rear sealing lip. The second sealing lip 503 can also be referred to as the front sealing lip. During wet cleaning, both sealing lips 502 and 503 lie tightly against the surface S. The front sealing lip 503 has recesses (not shown in detail) that open into the suction channel 504 and extend longitudinally along the suction bar 501 (see also Figure 3). Fig. 4, Fig. 5) are arranged at intervals from each other. This allows fluid that has accumulated in front of the first sealing lip 503 to pass through the recesses into the suction channel 504 and from there via the fluid path 600 first into the fluid tank 900 and from there back to the fluid outlet 400.

[0185] The Fluid Path 600 is in Fig. Figure 3 schematically depicts the system and comprises a first fluid path section 601 and a second fluid path section 602. The first fluid path section 601 can also be referred to as the intake path. The second fluid path section 602 can also be referred to as the discharge path. The fluid path 600 extends from the fluid intake 500, specifically its suction channel 504, through the fluid tank 900 to the fluid discharge 400, specifically to the at least one outlet opening 401. In this case, the first fluid path section 601 connects the fluid intake 500 to the fluid tank 900. The second fluid path section 602 connects the fluid tank 900 to the fluid discharge 400.

[0186] The fluid path 600 and its individual sections can generally be designed as a hose and / or pipe. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid path 600 can be formed, at least section by section, by cross-sections or cavities of other components or devices of the surface cleaning device 1, for example, by cross-sections or cavities of the guide part 100, the base part 200, and / or the tool assembly 300.

[0187] Further according to Fig. Figure 3 shows that the fluid tank 900 is attached to the guide element 100 and is removable in a manner not shown in detail. The fluid tank 900 has a tank volume 901, a tank inlet 902, and a tank outlet 903. The tank inlet 902 is connected to the fluid intake 500, specifically to its fluid channel 504, by means of the first fluid path section 601. The tank outlet 903 is connected to the fluid delivery 400, specifically to the at least one outlet opening 401, by means of the second fluid path section 602. The tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903 are fluid-conductingly connected to each other via the tank volume 901. The fluid path 600 between the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903 extends through the tank volume 901. In other words, the tank volume 901 forms a further section of the fluid path.

[0188] To convey the fluid F along the fluid path 600 and thus also through the fluid tank 900, the conveying device comprises a pumping device 701 and a suction device 750. In the illustrated embodiment, the pumping device 701 is arranged downstream of the tank outlet 903 in the fluid path 600. By means of the pumping device 701, fluid located in the tank volume 901 can be pumped through the tank outlet 903 and from there via the fluid path 600, specifically the second fluid path section 602, through the outlet opening 401 and thus discharged onto the surface S.

[0189] The suction device 750 serves to generate a negative pressure within the tank volume 901. For this purpose, the suction device 750 draws air from the tank volume 901, releasing the extracted air to the environment via exhaust openings (not shown in detail). The negative pressure thus generated in the tank volume 901 causes the fluid intake 500 to draw in previously discharged fluid, ambient air, and any dirt, and to discharge it into the tank volume 901 via the fluid path 600, specifically the first fluid path section 601. The suction device 750 is arranged above a fluid level P in the tank 900. The pumping device 701 is arranged below the fluid level P.

[0190] Further according to Fig. 3 the separator device 1300 is arranged in the tank volume 901.

[0191] The power supply unit 1600 includes an energy storage device 1601 in the form of a rechargeable battery. In the illustrated embodiment, the energy storage device 1601 is attached to the guide element 100 and is removable in a manner not shown in detail.

[0192] Further features of the surface cleaning device 1 according to Fig. 3 are in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 shown. Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic top view of the tool device 300, the fluid discharge 400 and the fluid intake 500, with the fluid path 600 and the conveying device 700 being shown in a simplified manner.

[0193] As already mentioned in relation to Fig. As explained in section 3, the tool assembly 300 comprises two tools, specifically designed as disc tools 305', 305''. The two disc tools 305', 305'' are described in relation to Fig. 4 also referred to as first disc tool 305' and second disc tool 305''. The two disc tools 305', 305'' are arranged side by side with respect to a transverse direction Y of the surface S to be cleaned and thus also with respect to a transverse axis of the surface cleaning device 1.

[0194] In the illustrated embodiment, the working width of the tool assembly 300, extending orthogonally to the direction of movement B shown, specifically the direction of travel V, is approximately 35 cm. In this case, the working width corresponds to the outer distance between the two disc tools 305', 305''. In embodiments not shown in the figures, the working width is between 15 cm and 100 cm.

[0195] The first disc tool 305' is driven rotaryally about a first axis of rotation D'. The second disc tool 350'' is driven rotaryally about a second axis of rotation D''. In this case, the first disc tool 305' is driven clockwise. The second disc tool 305'' is driven counterclockwise. Starting from a precisely vertical orientation parallel to the vertical axis Z, the two axes of rotation D', D'' are inclined towards each other by a few degrees. This slight inclination of the two axes of rotation D', D'' creates an unequal surface pressure in the circumferential direction of the disc tools 305', 305'' in contact with the surface S. The surface pressure increases radially from the respective axis of rotation D', D'' towards the center of the tool assembly 300 and thus along the transverse axis of the surface cleaning device 1.The respective drive movement generates unequal frictional forces due to the unequal surface pressure and thus the aforementioned propulsion, that is, a propulsive force V along a propulsion direction R.

[0196] To generate the thrust, instead of or in addition to the described inclined position of the axes of rotation D', D'', a local force application to the disc tools 305', 305'' can be provided. In this case, the disc tools 305', 305'' are each subjected to an axial force A directed backwards onto the disc tools 305', 305'' parallel to the vertical axis Z. The respective axial force A in turn generates an unevenly distributed surface pressure and thus, during operation of the tool assembly 300, unevenly distributed frictional forces, which result in the thrust force V. The surface cleaning device 1 can have a pre-tensioning device or the like to apply the respective axial force A.

[0197] What next based on Fig. As shown in Figure 4, two outlet openings 401 are present. The arrangement of the two outlet openings 401 in relation to the disc tools 305', 305'' is to be understood as exemplary. The outlet openings 401 can also be arranged on or below the disc tools 305', 305''. In this case, the fluid path extends at least partially through a cross-section of the disc tools 305', 305'', for example, through the axes of rotation D', D''.

[0198] Further regarding Fig. Figure 4 shows that the suction bar 501 is curved longitudinally in sections around the tool assembly 300, specifically around the disc tools 305', 305'', with respect to the XY plane and thus parallel to the surface S to be cleaned. With respect to the feed direction R, the suction bar 501 is arranged behind the two outlet openings 401 and the two disc tools 305', 305''.

[0199] Based on Fig. Figure 5 shows that the fluid path 600 of the surface cleaning device 1 can have alternative or additional devices. Instead of or in addition to the fluid tank, a fluid reservoir 800 can be provided. Furthermore, the fluid path 600 can have a shut-off device 1100, a separation device 1200, a detection device 1400 and / or a disinfection device 1500.

[0200] The Fig. Figures 6 to 11 show a further embodiment of a surface cleaning device 1 according to the invention, which is designed as a scrubber-dryer 1'. The design and function of the surface cleaning device 1 according to the Fig. 6 to 11 is essentially identical in design and function to the surface cleaning device 1 according to the Fig. 3 to 5. To avoid repetition, the following primarily explains differences and further details of the design and function. Otherwise, reference is made to the disclosure regarding the surface cleaning device according to the Fig. 3 to 6 and also the disclosure on surface cleaning equipment according to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 referred.

[0201] For the surface cleaning device 1 according to the Fig. From 6 to 11, the first fluid path section 601 is designed as a hose, which can also be referred to as the receiving hose 6013. The receiving hose 6013 extends longitudinally between a first hose end 6011 and a second hose end 6012. The first hose end 6011 is attached to the suction bar 501 and fluid-conductingly connected to its suction channel 504. The second hose end 6012 is attached in a manner described in more detail below and fluid-conductingly connected to the tank inlet 902.

[0202] The intake hose 6013 is freely accessible and, in particular, is not routed through the cross-sections of other components or devices of the surface cleaning device 1, is not covered by panels, or otherwise shielded. This allows the intake hose 6013 to be easily and quickly removed for cleaning by loosening the fastenings of the first hose end 6011 and the second hose end 6012.

[0203] The second fluid path section 602 (see Fig. 7, Fig. 8) leads from the tank outlet 903, which leads into the Fig. 6 to 11 are not shown in detail, up to the fluid output of 400.

[0204] The fluid discharge 400 is, in this case, at least partially integrated into the base part 200 and has outlet openings 401 arranged in the area of ​​the tool assembly 300, which are located in the Fig. 6 to 9 are not visible in detail.

[0205] The second fluid path section 602 comprises several hose sections 6021, 6022, 6023, and 6024, which are connected to each other by hose connectors (without reference numerals). The hose sections 6021, 6022, 6023, and 6024 can also be designated as the first hose section 6021, the second hose section 6022, the third hose section 6023, and the fourth hose section 6024. Similar to the receiving hose 6013, the hose sections 6021, 6022, 6023, and 6024 are exposed and thus easily accessible and removable for cleaning.

[0206] The pumping device 701 is a hose pump 702, which can also be referred to as a peristaltic pump. The hose pump 702 acts on the second fluid path section 602 and is designed to cause external mechanical deformation of a section of the second fluid path section 602. As a result of this elastic deformation, the fluid is pumped through the second fluid path section 602. Specifically, the hose pump 702 is arranged between the first hose section 6021 and the fourth hose section 6024.A further hose section, not shown in detail, connecting these two hose sections 6021 and 6024, lies within a housing 7021 of the peristaltic pump 702. For the purpose of pumping the fluid, this hose section is deformed by a movable pumping element of the peristaltic pump 702 (not shown), which in this case is a pump rotor mounted rotatorily in the housing 7021. Specifically, it is pinched along a point that moves with the movement of the pump rotor. The housing 7021 is closed with an openable cover 7022. The aforementioned hose section can be removed from the housing 7021 without tools after opening the cover 7022.

[0207] In the embodiment according to the Fig. Figures 6 to 11 show that the guide section 100 has a first housing 104 and a second housing 105. The two housing assemblies 104 and 105 are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis 101 of the guide section 100. The housing assemblies 104 and 105 are spaced further away from the base section 200 along the longitudinal axis 101 than the second housing assemblies 105, so that the housing assemblies 104 and 105 can also be referred to as the upper or proximal housing 104 and the lower or distal housing 105. The two housing assemblies 104 and 105 serve to accommodate and / or attach further components and / or devices of the surface cleaning device 1. In particular, the fluid tank 900 is located between the two housing assemblies 104 and 105.

[0208] In Fig. Figure 9 shows that the upper housing assembly 104 in the embodiment shown has a first housing section 1041 and a second housing section 1042.

[0209] The first housing section 1041 serves to accommodate the suction device 750. In the illustrated embodiment, the suction device 750 is designed as a suction turbine 751 and is accommodated in the first housing section 1041. The suction device 750, specifically the suction turbine 751, is located in the Fig. 6 to 11 are not visible in detail and are concealed by the first housing section 1041. The first housing section 1041 has an intake opening 1043 and several exhaust openings 1044. The intake opening 1043 is visible when the fluid tank 900 is attached, which is located in Fig. 9 is hidden, and fluid-conductingly connected to its tank volume 901. This allows air to be drawn from tank volume 901 by means of the suction turbine 751, creating a negative pressure. The air drawn from tank volume 901 by means of the suction turbine 751 is released to the environment via the exhaust openings 1044.

[0210] The second housing section 1042 serves to attach the receiving hose 6013 and connects it fluidly to the tank volume 901. For this purpose, the second housing section 1042 has a passage 1045 which opens at one end into the tank inlet 902 and at the other end into the second hose end 6012 (see Fig. 10).

[0211] The lower housing assembly 105 also serves to mount the energy storage device 1601 and the pumping device 701. The energy storage device 1601 and the fluid tank 900 are arranged and supported on a proximally oriented upper surface of the second housing assembly 105. The pumping device 701 is attached to an opposite, and thus distally oriented, underside of the lower housing assembly 105.

[0212] The surface cleaning device 1 has a control unit 1900, which is configured to control individual functions of the surface cleaning device 1, for example, to switch the power supply on and off by means of the power supply unit 1600, to control a drive speed of the tool unit 300, to control a feed rate of the conveying unit 700, for example, to preferably stepless adjustment of the said feed and take-off rates, or the like. The control unit has several manually operable control elements 1901, which can be designed, for example, as switches, pushbuttons, rotary knobs, or the like. In the embodiment shown, the control unit 1900 is housed in the upper housing unit 104.

[0213] In the embodiment according to the Fig. 6 to 11 the fluid tank 900 has a specific design with a tank shell 904, a first tank lid 907 and a second tank lid 908.

[0214] The tank shell 904 is, in this case, a hollow cylinder 905, specifically a tube 906. The tank shell 904, specifically the hollow cylinder 905 or the tube 906, is open at its axially opposite ends and can be closed by means of the tank lids 907, 908. The tank shell 904 can, in principle, have any hollow cross-section, although the hollow cylindrical and, in particular, tubular design shown is preferred. The tank shell 904 encloses the tank volume 901. In other words, the tank shell 904 forms the tank volume 901.

[0215] The first tank cap 907 and the second tank cap 908 function as end-end closures of the tank shell 904 and can also be referred to as the upper or proximal tank cap 907 and the lower or distal tank cap 908. The tank caps 907 and 908 are detachably connected to opposite end ends of the tank shell 904. However, a permanent connection between the tank caps and the tank shell is also conceivable and possible.

[0216] The upper tank cap 907 is mounted on and / or detachably attached to the upper housing assembly 104. The lower tank cap 908 is mounted on and / or detachably attached to the lower housing assembly 105.

[0217] The tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903 can, in principle, each be located on the tank shell or on one of the tank lids. In the embodiment shown, the latter is the case. Specifically, the tank inlet 902 is formed on the upper tank lid 907 (see figure). Fig. 10, Fig. 11).

[0218] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper tank lid 907 has a first lid section 9071 and a second lid section 9072. The tank inlet 902 is arranged on the first lid section 9071 and opens into an annular inlet channel 9021, which is provided with fluid guide elements 9022 arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction of the inlet channel 9021. At its end facing away from the tank inlet 902, the inlet channel 9021 opens into the tank volume 901.

[0219] The first cover section 9071 also has an opening 9073 extending axially into the tank volume 901. When the upper tank cover 907 is installed, this opening opens into the tank volume 901. When the fluid tank 900 is installed, the opening is aligned coaxially with the intake opening 1043 of the upper housing assembly 104 and is fluid-conducting to it. To generate the vacuum, the air in the tank volume 901 is drawn through the opening 9073 and via the intake opening 1043 by means of the suction device 750. The annular design of the inlet channel 9021 counteracts atomization of the drawn-in fluid (aerosol formation), more precisely, the liquid components of the drawn-in fluid, thus preventing any impairment of the suction device 750 designed for drawing in air.

[0220] The tank outlet 903 is formed on the lower tank lid 908 in a manner not shown in detail. The tank outlet 908 opens into a passage in the lower housing assembly 105 (not shown in detail) and from there into the second fluid path section 602, specifically the fourth hose section 6024 (see Fig. 8).

[0221] The connecting device 1800 in turn forms a cardan joint 1801 with a first joint axis 1802 and a second joint axis 1803 (see Fig. 7) In this case, the first articulation axis 1802 is oriented orthogonally to the direction of travel R. The second articulation axis 1803 is parallel to the direction of travel R and thus orthogonal to the first articulation axis 1802. In this case, the first (distal) articulation axis 1802 lies closer to the bottom section 200 along the longitudinal axis 101 than the second (proximal) articulation axis 1803.

[0222] In a top view looking along the Z-axis, the intersection point of the first joint axis 1802 and the second joint axis 1803 lies within a contour of the base part 200, including the tool assembly 300 and the suction bar 501, projected onto the surface S to be cleaned. Specifically, the intersection point is not located behind the aforementioned contour.

[0223] It is understood that the gimbal connection 1801 can also be formed by a joint without physical joint axes, an elastic section or the like.

[0224] Due to the gimbal connection 1801, a rotation of the guide part 100 about its longitudinal axis 101 causes the base part 200 to rotate about its vertical axis 201, without the base part 200 lifting off or tilting from the surface S. During wet cleaning, the vertical axis 201 of the base part 200 is parallel to the Z-axis and thus orthogonal to the surface S. Consequently, the base part 200 is rotated in an XY plane parallel to the surface S to be cleaned and / or while resting on the surface S. The rotation of the base section 200 serves to control the direction of movement B and thus, in this case, specifically the direction of advance R. The gimbal connection 1801 allows the aforementioned controllability with different orientations of the longitudinal axis 101 relative to the vertical axis 201, that is, with differently inclined guide section 100. The guide section 100 is located relative to the plane of the drawing. Fig. 3 pivotally movable about the first pivot axis 1802 forwards and backwards, and out of and into the plane of the drawing about the second pivot axis 1803. In other words, the guide part 100 in the illustrated embodiment is pivotally movable in all directions.

[0225] In the Fig. Figures 12 to 16 exemplify the maneuverability of the base section 200 via manual movement of the guide section 100 while simultaneously advancing the tool assembly 300. The explanations following the Fig. Sections 12 to 16 apply to surface cleaning equipment according to the Fig. 2 to 5 and 6 to 11 equally.

[0226] Fig. Figure 12 shows a situation in which the bottom section 200 moves in a straight line along the direction of travel R over the area S to be cleaned. The guide section 100 is inclined obliquely backwards relative to the Z-axis and with respect to the direction of travel R, so that a [missing information] in the Fig. Figures 12 to 16 show a user (not shown) in an upright position who can grasp the handle 1021 and walk behind the surface cleaning device 1. Without rotating the guide section 100, there is no change in the direction of movement B, here the forward direction R, of the base section 200. Provided the forward force V is sufficiently strong, the user does not need to exert any force to move the base section 200 – at least not in the forward direction R. If the forward force V merely serves to assist a manual movement, an additional manual force in the longitudinal direction of the guide section 100 is required to move the base section 200 in the forward direction R. To change the direction of movement, the user can rotate the guide section 100 about its longitudinal axis 101. In this case, this is done by the user applying a torque to the handle 1021.

[0227] Such a situation is exemplified in Fig. Figure 13 shows that the guide element 100 was rotated counterclockwise with respect to a viewing direction along the guide element 100 towards the base element 200. This rotation of the guide element 100 causes the base element 200 to rotate counterclockwise around the vertical axis 201 on the surface S to be cleaned, so that the direction of travel R is steered to the left with respect to the aforementioned viewing direction.

[0228] Starting from the in Fig. In the situation shown in Figure 13, the user can further rotate the base part 200 to change the direction of movement by continuing to rotate the guide part 100 counterclockwise. As shown in Fig. As shown in 14, the bottom part 200 can be constructed in this way, starting from the point shown in Fig. The orientation shown in Figure 12 is rotated by at least 180° so that the direction of movement initially pointing away from the user, in this case the direction of propulsion R, now runs towards the user.

[0229] The based on the Fig. The maneuverability of the base section 200, as illustrated in Figures 12 to 14, is also given when the guide section 100 is inclined laterally from the vertical (see Figures 12 to 14). Fig. 15).

[0230] The maneuverability of the floor section 200, achieved through the gimbal connection in 1801, allows for particularly simple and efficient wet cleaning of floor surfaces S', especially along walls, as exemplified in Fig. Figure 16 shows that the surface cleaning device 1 can be guided easily and ergonomically along the wall (without reference signs) by means of a corresponding inclination of the guide part 100 and due to the thrust (thrust force V along the thrust direction R).

[0231] To enable the most complete possible absorption of the fluid discharged by the fluid outlet 400 by the fluid intake 500, it is desirable that the fluid intake 500, in this case the suction bar 501, is always positioned behind the tool assembly 300 with respect to the direction of movement of the base part 200. In other words, it is desirable that the fluid intake 500 always follows the fluid outlet 400 and / or the tool assembly 300, which would not be guaranteed, for example, if the base part 200 were simply pulled backward or moved laterally. The gimbal connection 1801, in combination with the drive of the tool assembly 300, allows for particularly easy tracking of the fluid intake 500.

[0232] In Fig. Figure 17 shows an embodiment of a fluid tank 900 according to the invention, comprising a tank volume 901, a tank inlet 902, a tank outlet 903, and a locking device 1100. The fluid tank 900 is intended for use on one of the surface cleaning devices according to the Fig. Numbers 1 to 16 are planned.

[0233] The locking device 1100 is in Fig. 17 generically represented as a functional block and configured for the selective interruption of fluid recirculation through the tank volume 901. For this purpose, the locking device is configured to operate in a locked state ( Fig. 18) and transferable to a release state ( Fig. 19) In the release state, the fluid return is not interrupted, and the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903 are / remain fluidly connected. In the blocking state, the blocking device 1100 causes a reversible division of the tank volume 901 into a fluid discharge tank volume 9011 and a fluid receiving tank volume 9012. In the blocking state, the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903 are fluidically separated from each other by means of the blocking device 1100. The blocking device 1100 can, in principle, have any design suitable for the present purpose.

[0234] During the Fig. 18 and Fig. Further features of the locking device 1100 are shown in the specific embodiment shown in Figure 19. In particular, the locking device 1100 has a fluid control element 1101 which is configured to selectively close and open a passage 1102. In the locked state ( Fig. 18) The opening 1102 is closed by means of the fluid control element 1101. In the release state ( Fig. 19) the opening 1102 is open and the fluid receiving tank volume 9012 and the fluid discharge tank volume 9011 are fluid-conductingly connected to each other via the opening 1102.

[0235] During the Fig. 18 and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 19, the locking device 1100, specifically its fluid control element 1101, is arranged in the tank volume 901. For this purpose, the fluid control element 1101 is fixed to an inner wall 913 of a tank shell 904 of the fluid tank 900.

[0236] In the embodiment shown, the fluid control element 1101 is arranged such that the tank volume 901 is divided into approximately equal partial volumes. Consequently, the fluid delivery tank volume 9011 and the fluid intake tank volume 9012 are of equal size.

[0237] In the embodiment shown, the fluid control element 1101 can be manually switched between the release state and the blocking state in a manner not shown in detail and has an actuating element for this purpose which is not shown.

[0238] In an embodiment not shown in the figures, the fluid control element 1101 is configured for automatic and / or self-activating transitions between the locked and unlocked states. For example, an automatic and / or self-activating transition can occur depending on the sensor signal 1402 of the sensor device 1401 (see Fig. 2) take place.

[0239] In Fig. Figure 20 shows a further embodiment of a fluid tank 900 according to the invention, comprising a tank volume 901, a tank inlet 902, a tank outlet 903, and a separator 1300. The separator 1300 is shown in Fig. 20 is represented as a generic functional block and is designed to separate dirt from fluid flowing through the tank volume 901 between the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903. The separating device 1300 can, in principle, have any design suitable for this purpose. The separating device 1300 can, in principle, be arranged upstream, downstream, or within the tank volume 901.

[0240] In Fig. Figure 21 shows an embodiment in which the separation device 1300 comprises a filter device 1301. Alternatively or additionally to the filter device 1301, the separation device 1300 comprises a centrifugation device 1350.

[0241] The filter unit 1301 is designed to filter out dirt from the returned fluid. The centrifuge unit 1350 serves to separate the dirt by means of centrifugal forces. For this purpose, the centrifuge unit 1350 is designed to generate centrifugal forces or accelerations within the fluid. In other words, the centrifuge unit 1350 creates a fluid vortex.

[0242] In the Fig. 22 and Fig. Figure 23 shows an embodiment with a specifically designed filter assembly 1301. In the embodiment shown, the filter assembly 1301 has a first filter unit 1302 and a second filter unit 1303. In further embodiments, the filter assembly has only one filter unit or more than the two filter units shown here.

[0243] In this case, the first filter unit 1302 is arranged in the area of ​​the tank inlet 902, and the second filter unit 1303 is arranged in the area of ​​the tank outlet 903. Specifically, the first filter unit 1302 is arranged upstream of the tank inlet 902, outside the tank volume 901. The first filter unit 1302 is detachably attached, in a manner not shown in detail, to an outer wall 914 of a tank shell 904 of the fluid tank 900. Alternatively, the first filter unit 1302 can also be arranged on a tank lid of the fluid tank, for example, on the upper tank lid 907 of the [unclear text]. Fig. 6 to 11 fluid tanks shown.

[0244] The second filter unit 1303 is located within the tank volume 901. Specifically, the second filter unit 1303 is attached to a lower tank lid 908 of the fluid tank 900. The tank lid 908 serves as an end-face closure for the tank volume 901 and is detachably connected to an open end of the tank shell 904 for this purpose. A plug connection (not shown) is provided between the tank shell 904 and the (lower) tank lid 908. Attaching the second filter unit 1303 to the tank lid 908 allows for easy removal for cleaning, repair, and / or replacement.

[0245] During the Fig. 22 and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 23, the two filter units 1302 and 1303 are each designed as sieve filters 1304. The mesh size of the sieve filters 1304, not shown in detail in the figures, is between 0.06 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably between 0.09 mm and 0.3 mm, and more preferably between 0.125 mm and 0.25 mm. It is understood that the first filter unit 1302 and the second filter unit 1303 can have different mesh sizes, for example, to achieve coarse and fine filtration. The mesh size of sieve filters is often also specified as a unit of measurement, mesh (US). With regard to this dimension, the mesh size of the sieve filters 1304 is in this case between mesh (US) 230 and mesh (US) 25, preferably between mesh (US) 170 and mesh (US) 50, more preferably between mesh (US) 120 and mesh (US) 60.

[0246] In Fig. Figure 24 shows a further embodiment of a fluid tank 900 according to the invention with a filter device 1301, which in turn has a first filter unit 1302 and a second filter unit 1303.

[0247] The first filter unit 1302 is located within the tank volume 901 and thus, with respect to the flow direction of the fluid through the tank 900, between the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903. The first filter unit 1305 is located above an exemplary fluid level P within the tank volume 901. The first filter unit 1302 is attached to an inner wall 913 of a tank shell 904 of the fluid tank 900 by means of a fastening element 1307.

[0248] The second filter unit 1303 is similar to the embodiment according to the Fig. 22 and Fig. 23 is arranged in the area of ​​the tank outlet 903 within the tank volume 901. The second filter unit 1303 is located below the liquid level P. The in Fig. The liquid level P shown in Figure 24 is to be understood as exemplary and can of course also be higher or lower than shown.

[0249] The first filter unit 1302 is a coarse filter 1305, and the second filter unit 1303 is a fine filter 1306. The coarse filter 1305 is designed to filter out coarse dirt. Any finer dirt remaining after coarse filtration is filtered out by the fine filter 1306. When using the fluid tank 900, that is, during wet cleaning with one of the filters described above... Fig. In the surface cleaning devices 1 to 16 shown, the contaminated fluid enters the tank volume 901 through the tank inlet 902, passes through the coarse filter 1305, where coarse dirt is filtered out of the contaminated fluid. After coarse filtration, the fluid forms the liquid level P, which in this case lies below the coarse filter 1305. Upon discharge from the tank volume 901, the fluid passes through the fine filter 306, where finer dirt is filtered out.

[0250] In the embodiment shown, the coarse filter 1305 and the fine filter 1306 are each designed as sieve filters, wherein the mesh size of the coarse filter is larger than the mesh size of the fine filter.

[0251] In Fig. Figure 25 shows a further embodiment of a fluid tank 900 according to the invention with a filter device 1301. For cleaning the filter device 1301, the fluid tank 900 also has a filter cleaning device 1320. In particular, in the embodiment shown, the filter cleaning device 1320 is configured to clean a filter unit 1302 of the filter device 1301, wherein the filter unit 1302 is arranged within the tank volume 901 in the area of ​​the tank outlet 903. The filter cleaning device 1320 can have any design suitable for the present purpose and can be operated manually and / or automatically for cleaning. Filter cleaning can be carried out continuously, at predetermined regular intervals, and / or selectively by the user.The filter cleaning device 1320 prevents excessive accumulation of filtered dirt on or in the filter device 1301 and thus prevents impairment of the function of the filter device 1301.

[0252] In Fig. Figure 26 shows a further embodiment with a specifically designed filter cleaning device 1320, which in this case comprises a movable cleaning element 1321 and a motion mechanism 1322 for generating the movement of the cleaning element 1321. For the purpose of filter cleaning, the movable cleaning element 1321 acts directly or indirectly on the filter device 1301, in this case on its filter unit 1302. In different embodiments, the movable cleaning element 1321 is movable in different ways, for example, translationally, rotationally, and / or pivotally. The motion mechanism 1322 can be configured to transmit a manual drive force, a motor drive force, and / or a drive force induced by the fluid.

[0253] In Fig. Figure 27 shows an embodiment with a manually operated cleaning device 1320'. The filter cleaning device 1320' has a translationally movable filter cleaning element 1321' and a motion mechanism 1322' for translationally moving the filter cleaning element 1321'. The motion mechanism 1322' has a motion transmission element 1323', which in this case is a push-pull rod with a handle element 1324' arranged at one end. The motion transmission element 1323' is guided translationally by means of a guide device 1325'. To clean the filter device 1301, in this case specifically the filter unit 1302, the user can manually grasp the handle element 1324' and move the motion transmission element 1323', and thus also the filter cleaning element 1321' arranged at the other end, up and down along the filter unit 1302. This up-and-down movement allows the filter unit 1302 to be freed from accumulated dirt.

[0254] In Fig. Figure 27 shows the motion mechanism 1322' outside the tank volume 901. Of course, an arrangement of the motion mechanism 1322', in particular the motion transmission element 1323', within the tank volume 901 is also conceivable and possible.

[0255] In Fig. Figure 28 shows a further embodiment with a filter cleaning device 1320'', which comprises a filter cleaning element 1321'' and a movement mechanism 1322''. The filter cleaning element 1321'' is rotatably movable. The movement mechanism 1322'' can be driven by fluid forces. In particular, the movement mechanism 1322'' is configured to be driven by fluid flowing in through the tank inlet 902. The filter cleaning device 1320'' can therefore be operated without any separate action by the user.

[0256] The motion mechanism 1322'' comprises a motion transmission element 1323'' in the form of a shaft, which is rotatably mounted by means of a guide device 1325''. The motion mechanism 1322'' also comprises a drive element 1324'' in the form of a paddle wheel, which is arranged at one end of the motion transmission element 1323''. The filter cleaning element 1321'' is arranged at the other end of the motion transmission element 1323''.

[0257] The drive element 1324'' is set in rotation by the inflowing fluid. This rotation is transmitted via the motion transmission element 1323'' to the filter cleaning element 1321''. The rotary motion allows the filter device 1301, specifically the filter unit 1302, to be freed from accumulated dirt.

[0258] In Fig. 28 the movement mechanism 1322'' is arranged completely within the tank volume 901. In embodiments not shown in the figures, the movement mechanism is arranged similarly to the embodiment according to Fig. 27, arranged at least partially or sectionally outside the tank volume.

[0259] The filter cleaning elements 1321', 1321'' are each designed as a scraper element 1326', 1326''. The two scraper elements 1326', 1326'' are designed to scrape a surface 1308 of the filter device 1301, specifically of the filter unit 1302.

[0260] By wiping the surface 1308, accumulated dirt can be removed. If the filter unit 1302 is designed as a sieve filter, this wiping action will remove dirt from its mesh.

[0261] In Fig. Figure 29 shows an embodiment of a fluid tank 900 according to the invention with a specifically designed centrifugation device 1350. The fluid tank 900 is in Fig. 29 in a simplified cross-section along a section line Q'-Q' according to Fig. 21 shown.

[0262] The centrifuging device 1350 has a fluid guide element 1351 which is configured to set the flowing fluid into rotation. The rotation of the fluid generates a centrifugal acceleration which, with respect to the plane of the drawing, Fig. 29 and the tank outlet 903, shown there as an example, are directed radially outwards. The centrifugal acceleration causes any dirt contained in the fluid to be moved radially outwards.

[0263] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 29, the fluid guide element 1351 is arranged in the area of ​​the tank inlet 902 and is designed in the form of a fixed inlet nozzle 1352. The inlet nozzle 1352 is directed approximately tangentially to an inner wall 913 of a tank shell 904 enclosing the tank volume 901.

[0264] In Fig. Figure 30 shows another embodiment with a centrifugation device 1350. To generate the aforementioned centrifugal acceleration, the centrifugation device 1350 again has a fluid guide element 1351. In contrast to the embodiment according to Fig. 29 is the fluid guiding element 1351 of the embodiment according to Fig. 30 movable and specifically designed as a paddle wheel 1353. The paddle wheel 1353 is rotatably mounted in the tank volume 901 by means of a rotary bearing 1354. For centrifuging the liquid, the paddle wheel 1353 is driven by a drive 1355, which is located in Fig. 30 is represented generically as a functional block and is functionally connected to the impeller 1353 in a manner not shown in detail.

[0265] The tank inlet 902 opens at the Fig. In the embodiment shown in 30, the flow is approximately radial into the tank volume 901. It is understood that, similar to the embodiment shown in 30, the flow is approximately radial into the tank volume 901. Fig. 29 A tangential inlet to the tank may also be provided, through which the rotation of the impeller 1353 can be assisted or driven without the need for the drive 1355. The centrifuging device 1350 according to Fig. 30 can in principle be located at any point in the tank volume 901 between the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903.

[0266] The in Fig. The arrangement shown in Figure 30 at the level of the tank inlet 902 is to be understood as exemplary.

[0267] In Fig. Figure 31 shows an embodiment of a fluid tank 900 according to the invention, comprising a tank volume 901, a tank inlet 902, a tank outlet 903, and a disinfection device 1500. The disinfection device 1500 is designed to disinfect the tank volume 901, can in principle have any design suitable for this purpose, and is in Fig. Figure 31 is shown as a generic functional block. The disinfection device 1500 can be arranged upstream, downstream, and / or within the tank volume 901. Furthermore, the disinfection device 1500 can be arranged on the outside or inside of the tank shell 904 of the fluid tank 900, which forms the tank volume 901. Integration of the disinfection device 1500 into the tank shell 904 is also conceivable and possible.

[0268] In Fig. Figure 32 shows a further embodiment with disinfection device 1500, wherein this has a UV light source 1501 which is configured to emit UV light 1502. The UV light 1502 can render germs harmless and thus counteract the formation of odors and putrefaction. In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 32, the UV light source 1501 is arranged outside the tank volume 901 on an outer surface of the tank shell 904 facing away from the tank volume 901. The UV light 1502 is emitted from the outside inwards through the tank shell 904 into the tank volume 901. For this purpose, in the embodiment shown, the tank shell 904 is transparent to the UV light 1502, at least in the area of ​​the UV light source 1501. In this embodiment, the UV light 1502 is emitted directly from the UV light source 1501 into the tank volume 901. In an embodiment not shown in the figure, a reflector, light guide, or the like is provided for the indirect emission of the UV light.

[0269] In the Fig. 33 and Fig. Figure 34 shows a further embodiment with a disinfection device comprising a UV light source 1501'. In contrast to the UV light source 1501 of the embodiment according to Fig. 32 The UV light source 1501' is arranged within the tank volume 901. For simplified removal from the tank volume 901, the UV light source 1501' is attached to a tank lid 908 of the fluid tank 900. The tank lid 908 serves as an end-end closure for the tank volume 901 and is detachably joined to an open end of the tank shell 904, for example by means not shown in detail. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 34, the UV light source 1501' can be removed together with the tank cap 908. This makes it particularly easy to clean, repair, or replace the UV light source 1501'.

[0270] In the Fig. 35 and Fig. Figure 36 shows an embodiment of a fluid tank 900 according to the invention, comprising a tank volume 901, a tank inlet 902, a tank outlet 903, a tank shell 904, and a connecting section 909. The connecting section 909 serves to provide a mechanical and / or fluid-conducting connection between the fluid tank 900 and a suction device 750 of the surface cleaning devices 1 according to the Fig. 1 to 16.

[0271] In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting section 909 is arranged at a proximal end 910 of the tank shell 904. The tank shell 904 extends axially between the proximal end 910 and a distal end 911. The tank inlet 902 is located in the region of the proximal end 910. The tank outlet 903 is located in the region of the distal end 911.

[0272] The suction device 750 is designed in this case as a suction turbine 751. A complementary connecting section 752 is associated with the suction turbine 751. The complementary connecting section 752 serves for the mechanical and / or fluid-conducting connection with the connecting section 909 of the tank shell 904. It is understood that the connecting section of the fluid tank can also be arranged or formed on a tank lid. Therefore, a connection section directly on the tank shell is not provided for in all embodiments.

[0273] The suction turbine 751 is also associated with an intake filter 753. The intake filter 753 prevents the suction turbine 751 from drawing liquid and dirt from the tank volume. The intake filter can be part of the fluid tank's filter system.

[0274] The connecting section 909 and the complementary connecting section 752 are designed to form a detachable plug connection. It is also conceivable and possible to form a snap-fit, clamping, and / or screw connection.

[0275] In Fig. Figure 37 shows an embodiment of a fluid tank 900 according to the invention, comprising a tank volume 901, a tank inlet 902, a tank outlet 903, and a partition 1200. The partition 1200 is designed to divide the tank volume 901 into a fluid delivery tank volume 9011 and a fluid receiving tank volume 9012, with the proportions being variable. The partition 1200 can, in principle, have any design suitable for this purpose and is available in Fig. 37 is represented as a generic functional block.

[0276] The separation device can be arranged partially and / or sectionally inside and / or outside the tank volume 901.

[0277] The separating device 1200 is at least partially or sectionally movable relative to the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903. By means of a relative movement of the separating device 1200, the fluid discharge tank volume 9011 and the fluid intake tank volume 9012 are changed with respect to their respective proportions of the total available tank volume 901. Specifically, the fluid discharge tank volume 9011 decreases while the fluid intake tank volume 9012 simultaneously increases, and / or vice versa.

[0278] The fluid-tight separation between the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903, formed by the separating device 1200, can be selectively removed in preferred embodiments, similar to the situation with the shut-off device 1100. Conversely, the shut-off device 1100 can be movable within the tank volume 901 in order to change the proportions of the fluid discharge tank volume and the fluid intake tank volume to the total available tank volume.

[0279] The movement of the separating device 1200 for changing the proportions of the fluid discharge tank volume 9011 and the fluid intake tank volume 9012 of the total available tank volume 901 can be driven manually, by motor and / or automatically.

[0280] In the Fig. 38, Fig. 39 and Fig. Figure 40 shows an embodiment with a specifically designed separating device comprising a separating element 1201. The separating element 1201 rests against an inner wall 913 of the fluid tank 900 in a relatively movable and fluid-tight manner. A relative movement of the separating element 1201 along the inner wall 913 causes the proportions of the fluid discharge tank volume 9011 and the fluid receiving tank volume 9012 to be changed in relation to the total available tank volume 901.

[0281] In Fig. Figure 38 shows a first situation in which the separating element 1201 occupies a first position. In this first position, a first liquid level P1 exists in the fluid delivery tank volume 9011. The fluid receiving tank volume 9012 is empty, that is, it has no liquid level.

[0282] The outflow of fluid from the fluid delivery tank volume 9011 reduces the first fluid level P1 to a second fluid level P2 ( Fig. 39). By the outflow of fluid through the tank outlet 903 and / or the inflow of fluid through the tank inlet 902, the separating element 1201 is moved from its first position ( Fig. 38) moved to a second position ( Fig. 39). In this second position of the separating element 1201, there is a reduced fluid discharge tank volume 9011' and an increased fluid receiving tank volume 9012'. In the increased fluid receiving tank volume 9012', the inflowing fluid has formed a third fluid level P3.

[0283] In Fig. Figure 40 shows a third situation in which the separating element 1201 assumes a third position, with a further reduced fluid discharge tank volume 9011'' and a further increased fluid receiving tank volume 9012''. In the third situation shown, the further reduced fluid discharge tank volume 9011'' is completely empty, i.e., it has no liquid level. In the further increased fluid receiving tank volume 9012'', the inflowing fluid has formed a fourth liquid level P4.

[0284] Assuming that a (theoretically) complete return of the discharged and absorbed fluid takes place over the duration of the wet cleaning process, the liquid volume of the first liquid level P1 corresponds to a liquid volume of the fourth liquid level P4.

[0285] During the Fig. 38, Fig. 39 and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 40, the separating element 1201 is translationally movable. Specifically, the separating element 1201 is translationally movable along a longitudinal axis 912 of the fluid tank.

[0286] The separating element 1201 is in this case translationally movable between the said first position and the third position over a distance which corresponds to 70% of an axial total length of the tank volume 901 and / or an axial distance between the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903.

[0287] In Fig. Figure 41 shows further details of the separating element 1201. Specifically, the separating element 1201 has a base body 1202 and, in this case, two sealing elements 1203, 1204, which are specifically designed as sealing rings. In the embodiment shown, the base body 1202 of the separating element 1201 is plate- or disc-shaped. In other words, the base body is flat with respect to the longitudinal axis 912. The two sealing elements 1203, 1204 are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis 912 and are arranged on an outer contour of the base body 1202, which is not further specified. The two sealing elements 1203, 1204 serve to provide a fluid-tight seal and guide the separating element on the inner wall 913 of the fluid tank 900. The axial distance between the two sealing elements 1203, 1204 prevents the separating element 1201 from tilting with respect to the longitudinal axis 912 and achieves improved movement guidance.

[0288] In the Fig. 42, Fig. 43, Fig. Figure 44 shows further embodiments with movable separating elements 1201', 1201'', 1201''' for the proportionally variable separation of the tank volume 901.

[0289] In contrast to the separating element 1201 of the embodiment according to the Fig. From 38 to 40, the separating element 1201' is not axially movable, but transversely to the longitudinal extent of the fluid tank.

[0290] The separating element 1201'' of the embodiment according to Fig. 43 is pivotable about an unspecified pivot axis.

[0291] The separating element 1201''' of the embodiment according to Fig. 44 itself acts as a kind of container and is buoyant on a liquid level P located in the tank volume 901. If the liquid level P drops, the position of the separating element 1201''' changes and the volume available for receiving fluid flowing into the tank increases.

[0292] In Fig. Figure 45 shows a separating device 1200 for a fluid tank according to the invention, wherein the separating device 1200 comprises a movable separating element 1201 and a locking device 1100. The basic function and possible design of the movable separating element 1201 are described in relation to the Fig. 38 to 44 Revealed.

[0293] The locking device 1100 of the disconnecting device 1200 serves to selectively deactivate the disconnecting function of the disconnecting device 1200. For this purpose, the disconnecting device 1100 can be switched between a connected state and a disconnected state.

[0294] In the separation state, the fluid-tight separation between the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903 and the associated proportional division of the tank volume 901 into the fluid discharge tank volume 9011 and the fluid intake tank volume 9012 is / remains maintained.

[0295] In the release state, this separation / division is eliminated and the tank inlet 902 is fluid-conductingly connected to the tank outlet. In this way, the Fig. 45 The combination of movable separating device 1200 and locking device 1100 shown allows for the optional cancellation of fluid recirculation and a change in the proportions of the fluid discharge tank volume 9011 and the fluid intake tank volume 9012 to the total available tank volume 901.

[0296] In Fig. Figure 46 shows a specific embodiment in which the locking device 1100 is integrated into the movable separating element 1201. Specifically, the locking device 1100 has a fluid control element 1101 by means of which a passage (not shown) of the separating element 1201 can be selectively opened and released.

[0297] In Fig. Figure 47 shows a further specific embodiment of a separating device 1200. The separating device 1200 again has a movable separating element 1201. In addition, the separating device 1200 has, according to Fig. 47 A locking device 1100, specifically with a fluid control element 1101, a separation device 1300, specifically with a filter device 1301 and / or a centrifugation device 1350, a detection device 1400, specifically with a sensor device 1401, and / or a disinfection device 1500, specifically with a UV light source 1501. The locking device 1100, the separation device 1300, the detection device 1400, and the disinfection device 1500 can be provided alternatively or in any combination. Preferably, the respective devices 1100, 1300, 1400, and 1500 are arranged or formed on the movable separating element 1201 and are thus movable together with the separating element 1201 when it is moved.Regarding possible further features of the barrier device 1100, the separator device 1300, the detection device 1400, and the disinfection device 1500, reference is made to the previously disclosed information concerning these devices. Further specific features of the separation device 1200, in particular of the separation element 1201, will become apparent in combination with the aforementioned previous disclosure.

[0298] In the Fig. 48, Fig. 49 and Fig. Figure 50 shows a further embodiment of a fluid tank 900 according to the invention, comprising a tank volume 901, a tank inlet 902, a tank outlet 903, and a separation device with a separating element 1210. The separating element 1210 serves to change the proportions of the total available tank volume 901 that are available for the discharge and intake of fluid.

[0299] Specifically, the separating element 1210 is elastically deformable and fluid-tight, fixed to a tank shell 904 of the fluid tank. The elastically deformable separating element 1210 creates a fluid-tight separation between the tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903.

[0300] In the Fig. 48, Fig. 49 and Fig. Figure 50 shows the elastically deformable separating element 1210 in different deformation states. In a first deformation state ( Fig. 48) The tank volume 901 is divided by means of the separating element 1210 into a fluid delivery tank volume 9011 and a fluid intake tank volume 9012. In a second deformation state ( Fig. 49) is the separator element 1210 with respect to the character level of the Fig. 48 to 50 elastically deflected to the left, resulting in a reduced fluid discharge tank volume 9011' and an increased fluid intake tank volume 9012'. In a third deformation state ( Fig. 50) the separating element 1210 is deflected even further elastically and a further reduced fluid discharge tank volume 9011'' and a further increased fluid intake tank volume 9012'' result.

[0301] In the embodiment shown, the elastic deformation of the separating element 1210 is caused by an outflow of fluid from the tank outlet 903 and / or an inflow of fluid through the tank inlet 902.

[0302] In the specific design according to the Fig. 48 to 50, the elastically deformable separating element 1210 is a sealing membrane 1211.

[0303] It goes without saying that the in relation to Fig. 47 functions of the blocking device 1100, the separating device 1300, the detection device 1400 and / or the disinfection device 1500 can also be integrated into the elastically deformable separating element 1210.

[0304] In the Fig. 51 and Fig. Figure 52 shows a further embodiment of a fluid tank 900 according to the invention, comprising a tank volume 901, a tank inlet 902, and a tank outlet 903. The fluid tank 900 according to the Fig. 51 and Fig. 52 features a specifically designed tank shell 904. Specifically, the tank shell 904 is a hollow cylinder 905. The hollow cylinder 905 can, in principle, have any cross-sectional shape, for example, a square, convex-concave, round, or oval cross-sectional shape. The cross-sectional shape can vary along the tank shell. In the specific design according to the Fig. 51 and Fig. 52 The hollow cylinder 905 has an annular cross-sectional shape and is therefore a tube 906, more precisely: a circular tube.

[0305] The tank shell 904 is extended axially along a longitudinal axis 912 between a proximal end 910 and a distal end 911. The tank shell 904 is located in the Fig. 51 and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 52, the tank shell is closed at the proximal end 910 and at the distal end 911. However, the tank shell can also be open at at least one of the ends 910, 911 and be closable by means of a tank cap. A design of the tank shell 904 that is open axially on both sides and can be closed with tank caps is preferred. The hollow cylinder 905, and in particular the tube 906, are therefore preferably open axially on both sides.

[0306] According to Fig. 51 The tank inlet 902 and the tank outlet 903 are formed and / or arranged directly on the tank shell 904. However, if the fluid tank has tank caps attached to the end face of the tank shell, the tank inlet and / or the tank outlet can also each be formed on one of the tank caps.

[0307] The one in the Fig. 51 and Fig. The fluid tank 900 shown in Figure 52 has a total available tank volume 901 of 1.5 liters. In other embodiments not shown in the figures, the tank volume is a maximum of 10 liters and a minimum of 0.5 liters.

[0308] According to Fig. 52 the tank shell 904 is made of a transparent material T, which is specifically a plastic K.

[0309] The tank shell 904 can, in principle, be designed as a single piece or in multiple parts. A multi-part design, as used in the [reference to a specific document / section], is preferred. Fig. 53 and Fig. 54 is shown.

[0310] According to Fig. In Figure 53, the fluid tank 900, specifically the tank shell 904, is assembled from several parts 9041, 9042, 9043, and 9044. These several parts 9041 to 9044 are hollow cylinder sections, specifically pipe sections. Depending on the configuration, these several parts 9041 to 9044 are joined in different ways, for example, by plug-in, snap-fit, clamping, screw, or other connection methods. The joints between the several parts 9041 to 9044 can be permanent or detachable.

[0311] During the Fig. 53 and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 54, a plug connection is formed between each immediately adjacent part, so that a total of three plug connections 914, 915, 916 are present. The plug connections 914, 915, 916 are detachable and therefore allow easy disassembly and reassembly of the fluid tank 900. This allows any internal components of the fluid tank located within the tank volume 910, such as one of the aforementioned devices (locking device 1100, separating device 1200, separating device 1300, detection device 1400, disinfection device 1500), to be easily removed. This also simplifies cleaning. Furthermore, the total available tank volume can be increased by increasing the number of parts used or decreased by removing one or more parts. The volume of the fluid tank 900 is determined according to Figure 54. Fig. 53 and Fig. 54 available tank volumes from the sum of the partial volumes 9013 to 9016 of the several parts 9041 to 9044.

[0312] It goes without saying that the characteristics of the fluid tanks are determined according to the Fig. 17 to 54 can be combined with one another as desired to form further embodiments according to the invention. For example, those relating to the Fig. The characteristics explained in sections 51 to 54 can be readily applied to those relating to the Fig. The information provided for fluid tanks 17 to 50 is transferable and vice versa. Furthermore, it is understood that the individually described features of the fluid tanks are, according to the... Fig. 17 to 50, that is, the blocking device 1100, the separating device 1200, the separating device 1300, the detection device 1400 and the disinfection device 1500, can of course also be present in any combination on one and the same fluid tank.

[0313] It is further pointed out that the in the Fig. The elongated shape of the fluid tanks shown in Figures 17 to 54 is to be understood as exemplary. This elongated shape offers particular advantages when the fluid tank is to be attached to the guide section of the surface cleaning device or carried on the support device. If the fluid tank is also to be attached to the base of the surface cleaning device, a shape different from that shown in the figures will generally be advantageous, for example, a less elongated, more compact, and / or flatter shape.

[0314] In Fig. Figure 55 shows a schematic side view of a surface cleaning device 1a not according to the invention. The surface cleaning device 1a not according to the invention has a longitudinally extended guide section 100a, a base section 200a, a tool assembly 300a, a fluid discharge 400a, and a fluid intake 500a. Furthermore, the surface cleaning device 1a not according to the invention has separate tanks for receiving fresh water and wastewater, namely a fresh water tank 80 and a wastewater tank 90, which are not fluidically connected to each other. The fresh water tank 80 and the wastewater tank 90 are each attached to the longitudinally extended guide section 100.

[0315] The fresh water tank 80 has a tank outlet 81 which is connected to the fluid discharge 400a via a fluid path not otherwise specified. A pumping device 701 is arranged in said fluid path for the purpose of pumping fresh water.

[0316] The wastewater tank 90 has a tank inlet 91, which is connected to the fluid intake 500a via a further, unspecified, separate fluid path. The wastewater tank 90 also has an opening 92, which is fluid-conducting and connected to a suction device 750. To receive wastewater, the suction device 750 draws air from inside the wastewater tank 90 through the opening 92. The resulting negative pressure causes wastewater to be drawn from the fluid intake 500a, via the fluid path, through the tank inlet 91 and into the wastewater tank 90.

[0317] The cleaning result and cleaning speed are limited by the available amount of fresh water in the fresh water tank 80 and the maximum amount of dirty water that can be absorbed in the dirty water tank 90.

[0318] In Fig. Figure 56 shows a conversion of the non-inventive surface cleaning device 1a into an inventive surface cleaning device 1a'. For the purpose of the conversion, the fresh water tank 80 and the dirty water tank 90 are removed from the guide part 100a. Existing fluid-conducting connections of the fresh water tank 80 and the dirty water tank 90 with the aforementioned separate fluid paths are disconnected. Alternatively, it is conceivable and possible to remove only one of the two separate tanks 80, 90. A fluid tank 900' according to the invention, with a tank volume 901, a tank inlet 902, and a tank outlet 903, is then attached to the guide part 100a. The tank inlet 902 is fluid-conductingly connected to the fluid intake 500a. The tank outlet 903 is fluid-conductingly connected to the fluid discharge 400a. An opening (without reference numeral) of the fluid tank 900' is connected fluid-conducting to the suction device 750.

[0319] The functional blocks (without reference numbers) shown in tank volume 901 illustrate that the fluid tank 900' has one or more of the following features, referenced in the Fig. 17 to 54 explained facilities may be available, in particular a blocking device 1100, a separation device 1200, a separating device 1300, a detection device 1400 and / or a disinfection device 1500.

[0320] In Fig. Figure 57 shows an arrangement comprising an embodiment of a fluid tank 900 according to the invention, an additional tank 950, a fluid control element 960 and a pumping device 701.

[0321] The fluid tank 900 has a tank volume 901, a tank inlet 902, and a tank outlet 903. The tank inlet 902 is for fluid-conducting connection to a fluid intake of one of the surface cleaning devices according to the Fig. 1 to 16 are set up. The tank outlet 903 is fluid-conductingly connected to the fluid control element 960.

[0322] The auxiliary tank 950 has an auxiliary tank volume of 951 and is fluid-conductingly connected to the fluid control element 960.

[0323] The fluid control element 960 serves to control the fluid discharge from the fluid tank 900 and the auxiliary tank 950 and is controllable between different states for this purpose.

[0324] In a first state of the fluid control element 960, the tank outlet 903 is fluid-conductingly connected to the pumping device 701, so that fluid located in the tank volume 901 can be pumped out of the fluid tank 900 via the tank outlet 903 for delivery to a surface to be cleaned. In the first state of the fluid control element 960, the auxiliary tank volume is closed towards the pumping device 701; no fluid is discharged from the auxiliary tank 950.

[0325] In the second state of the fluid control element 960, the auxiliary tank volume 951 is fluid-conductingly connected to the pumping device 701, so that fluid from the auxiliary tank 950 can be dispensed onto the surface to be cleaned. In the second state, the tank outlet 903 is not connected to the pumping device 701, so that no fluid can be dispensed from the fluid tank 900.

[0326] In a third state of the fluid control element 960, the tank volume 901 and the auxiliary tank volume 951 are fluid-conductingly connected to the pumping device 701, so that a combined discharge of fluid from the fluid tank 900 and from the auxiliary tank 950 can take place.

[0327] In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid control element 960 is continuously controllable between the aforementioned states. This allows a continuous mixing of fluid from tank volume 901 with fluid from the auxiliary tank volume 951.

[0328] The arrangement according Fig. 57 is for use on one of the surface cleaning devices according to the Fig. Numbers 1 to 16 are planned.

[0329] The 950 auxiliary tank allows for the stepless addition of substances such as fresh water or an additive. This results in even better cleaning performance.

[0330] In Fig. Figure 58 shows an embodiment of a surface cleaning system 10 according to the invention. Fig. Figure 58 shows the surface cleaning system 10 in a simplified block diagram.

[0331] The surface cleaning system 10 comprises an embodiment of a surface cleaning device 1 according to the invention, for example one of the surface cleaning devices according to the Fig. 1 to 16.

[0332] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface cleaning device 1 comprises a tool assembly 300, a fluid dispensing unit 400, a fluid intake 500, a fluid path 600, and a conveying unit 700. For the function and basic design of these components of the surface cleaning device 1, reference is made to the preceding disclosure. In the present case, the surface cleaning device 1 also comprises a fluid reservoir 800, which is specifically designed as a fluid tank 900.

[0333] The surface cleaning device 1 is, in this case, a scrubber-dryer 1' and is designed for wet scrubbing a surface S to be cleaned. The surface S to be cleaned is, in this case, a floor surface S', for example, a floor surface in a building.

[0334] Due to the specific design of the surface cleaning device 1, the surface cleaning system 10 can also be referred to as a scrubber-dryer 1' or scrubber-dryer system 10'.

[0335] The surface cleaning system 10 further comprises a base station 2000, which is designed to accommodate the surface cleaning device 1 and includes a fluid system 2100. In the embodiment shown, the base station 2000 also includes an optional holding device 2200 and an optional propulsion device 2300.

[0336] The fluid unit 2100 is designed for emptying, filling, and / or rinsing the fluid path 600, specifically the fluid tank 900, of the surface cleaning device 1. The emptying, filling, and / or rinsing preferably occurs automatically without direct user intervention. In this case, the emptying, filling, and / or rinsing is accomplished via a fluid connection unit 2100. The fluid connection unit 2100 is designed for automatic fluid-conducting connection to the fluid path 600. This connection can be established via the fluid outlet 400, the fluid inlet 500, a designated opening in the fluid tank 900, and / or any other connection point on the fluid path 600.

[0337] In the embodiment shown, the fluid device 2100 also has a tank device 2120, which can be fluidly connected to the surface cleaning device 1 by means of the fluid connection device 2110.

[0338] The tank system 2120 comprises a wastewater tank 2121, a fresh water tank 2122, and a rinse water tank 2123. The wastewater tank 2121 serves to collect and subsequently dispose of wastewater from the fluid path 600, specifically fluid tank 900, of the surface cleaning device 1. The fresh water tank 2122 serves to refill the fluid path 600, specifically fluid tank 900, with fresh water. The rinse water tank 2123 serves to rinse the fluid path 600, specifically fluid tank 900, with rinse water or another rinsing fluid.

[0339] The holding device 2200 is designed for detachable mechanical coupling with a designated section of the surface cleaning device 1. In embodiments with a guide section and / or base section, the holding device 2200 is preferably designed for mechanical coupling with the guide section and / or base section. The holding device 2200 serves to detachably secure the surface cleaning device 1 to the base station 2000. The holding device 2200 also prevents the unintentional loosening of the fluid-conducting connection between the fluid connection device 2110 and the fluid path 600, specifically the fluid tank 900, of the surface cleaning device 1.

[0340] The propulsion device 2300 enables manual or motorized movement of the base station 2000. In a particularly simple design, the propulsion device 2300 features transport rollers, drive wheels, or the like. The propulsion device 2300 allows for easy repositioning of the base station 2000 on or relative to the surface to be cleaned. Specifically, the user can move the base station 2000 along with the surface cleaning device 1 or reposition it from time to time. The surface cleaning device 1 can be moved together with the base station 2000 while attached to it and / or held in place by the holding device 2200.In an embodiment not shown in the figures, the propulsion device is set up to autonomously track the base station, so that the base station follows the surface cleaning device at a distance during its use.

[0341] In Fig. Figure 59 shows an embodiment of a method 3000 for wet cleaning a surface using a surface cleaning device, which is preferably a surface cleaning device 1 according to the Fig. It concerns numbers 1 to 16. Fig. Figure 59 shows the procedure 3000 in a simplified block representation.

[0342] Procedure 3000 includes steps 3100, 3200, 3300 and 3400.

[0343] In step 3100, fluid is dispensed onto the surface to be cleaned. This is done via a fluid dispenser on the surface cleaning device.

[0344] In step 3200, the previously dispensed fluid is collected from the surface by means of a fluid intake on the surface cleaning device.

[0345] In step 3300, the previously collected fluid is conveyed by a conveying device of the surface cleaning unit. The fluid is conveyed along a fluid path of the surface cleaning unit, which connects the fluid intake for returning the collected fluid with the fluid discharge.

[0346] In step 3400, the recycled fluid is released onto the surface via the fluid discharge.

[0347] The specific details of the procedure arise directly and unambiguously from the preceding disclosure regarding the Fig. 1 to 58. For example, embodiments of the procedure may include at least one of the following steps: Separation of dirt from the collected fluid by means of a separation device of the surface cleaning device, in particular by means of a filter device and / or a centrifugation device; disinfection of a section of a fluid path of the surface cleaning device, in particular of a fluid tank, by means of a disinfection device of the surface cleaning device, in particular by the emission of UV light by means of a UV light source; detection of a degree of contamination of the collected fluid by means of a detection device of the surface cleaning device, in particular a sensor device; Blocking the fluid return by means of a blocking device on the surface cleaning device; Manually guiding the surface cleaning device over the surface to be cleaned, in particular by means of a guide part of the surface cleaning device; controlling a direction of movement of the surface cleaning device, wherein, for the purpose of control, a guide part is rotated about its longitudinal axis in order to rotate a bottom part of the surface cleaning device about its vertical axis and resting on the surface to be cleaned; generating a propulsion to support or effect the movement of the surface cleaning device, wherein the propulsion is generated by means of a tool device and / or a propulsion device of the surface cleaning device.

[0348] It is understood that the foregoing list of further optional process steps is not exhaustive. Further optional process steps and further details of the optional process steps already mentioned by way of example will follow from the description of the surface cleaning devices, the fluid tanks, the surface cleaning system according to the invention, and the disclosure of the respective embodiments. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2013 215 198 A1

[0003]

Claims

[1] Surface cleaning device (1) for wet cleaning a surface (S, S'), comprising a tool device (300) with at least one tool (301) which is driven by means of at least one drive (302) to perform a tool movement to act on the surface (S, S'), wherein the tool arrangement (300) comprises at least two disc tools (305, 305', 305'') which are each driven in a rotary direction about an axis of rotation (D', D'') and in opposite directions to each other, wherein the two disc tools (305', 305'') generate a propulsive force (V) along a propulsive direction (R), wherein the propulsive force (V) assists or causes a movement of the surface cleaning device (1) during wet cleaning of the surface (S, S'), and wherein, to generate the thrust force (V), the disc tools (305', 305'') are each subjected to an axial force (A) that is unevenly distributed and / or locally concentrated in the circumferential direction of the respective disc tool (305', 305''). [2] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 1, further comprising a pre-tensioning device which is configured to apply the respective axial force (A). [3] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, to generate the respective axial force (A), a preloading element is preferably assigned to each of the disc tools (305', 305'') arranged radially spaced from the respective axis of rotation (D', D''). [4] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 3, wherein the pretensioning element has a roller pressing on the respective disc tool (305', 305''). [5] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one tool (301) is a scrubbing tool (303) for wet scrubbing the surface (S, S'), and wherein the surface cleaning device (1) is a scrubber-dryer (1'). [6] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tool device (300) has at least one roller tool (304) which is driven rotationally about a horizontal axis of rotation. [7] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the axes of rotation (D', D'') of the disc tools (305', 305'') are slightly inclined to generate the propulsive force (V). [8] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a guide part (100) which extends longitudinally between a proximal end (102) and a distal end (103) and is designed for manually guiding the surface cleaning device (1) over the surface (S, S'). [9] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 8, further comprising a bottom part (200) which is connected to the distal end (103) of the guide part (100), in particular wherein the tool device (300) is arranged on the bottom part (200). [10] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a fluid discharge (400) which is configured to discharge fluid (F) onto the surface (S, S') and a fluid intake (500) which is configured to receive fluid (F) discharged onto the surface (S, S') by means of the fluid discharge (400) from the surface (S, S'). [11] Surface cleaning device (1) for wet cleaning a surface (S, S'), comprising a guide element (100) which extends longitudinally between a proximal end (102) and a distal end (103) and is designed for manually guiding the surface cleaning device (1) over the surface (S, S'), a base part (200) that is connected to the distal end (103) of the guide part (100), a tool device (300) which is arranged on the base part (200) and is set up to act on the surface (S, S'), a fluid outlet (400) designed to discharge fluid (F) onto the surface (S, S'), a fluid intake (500) which is designed to receive fluid (F) discharged onto the surface (S, S') by means of the fluid discharge (400), a fluid path (600) that connects the fluid intake (500) for the return of fluid (F) taken up by means of the fluid intake (500) to the fluid discharge (400) in a fluid-conducting manner, a conveying device (700) which is set up to convey fluid (F) along the fluid path (600), whereby fluid absorbed by the surface (S, S') via fluid uptake (500) can be discharged onto the surface (S, S') via fluid discharge (400). [12] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 11, wherein the fluid path (600) has a fluid reservoir (800) with a reservoir volume (801), a reservoir inlet (802) which is fluidly connected to the fluid intake (500), and a reservoir outlet (803) which is fluidly connected to the fluid discharge (400), wherein the reservoir inlet (802) and the reservoir outlet (803) are fluidly connected to each other via the reservoir volume (801). [13] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 12, wherein the fluid reservoir (800) is attached to the guide part (100) and / or to the base part (200), in particular detachably. [14] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the fluid reservoir (800) is a component of a carrying device (1000), wherein the carrying device (1000) is designed to be carried on the body of a user. [15] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the reservoir volume (801) is a maximum of 10 liters, preferably a maximum of 8 liters, preferably a maximum of 6 liters, preferably a maximum of 5 liters, preferably a maximum of 4 liters, preferably a maximum of 3 liters, preferably a maximum of 2 liters, and particularly preferably between 0.5 liters and 2.0 liters. [16] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the fluid reservoir (800) is made at least partially, preferably completely, of a transparent material (T), in particular plastic (K). [17] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the fluid reservoir (800) has a fluid tank (900), in particular consisting of a fluid tank (900). [18] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 17, wherein the fluid tank (900), in particular its tank volume (901) and / or a tank shell (904) of the fluid tank (900) forming the tank volume (901), is designed in the form of an elongated hollow cylinder (905), in particular a tube (906), and / or is made of plastic (K). [19] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the fluid tank (900), in particular its tank volume (901) and / or a tank shell (904) forming the tank volume (901), comprises several parts (9041, 9042, 9043, 9044), in particular hollow cylinder sections and / or pipe sections, which are fluid-tightly joined together, in particular plugged together, along a longitudinal axis (912) of the fluid tank (900). [20] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 19, wherein the several parts (9041, 9042, 9043, 9044) are detachably joined together, in particular plugged together. [21] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 11 to 20, wherein the fluid path (600) has a locking device (1100) which can be switched between a release state and a locking state, in particular being switchable, wherein in the release state the fluid path (600) between the fluid intake (500) and the fluid discharge (400) is released, and wherein in the locking state the fluid path (600) between the fluid intake (500) and the fluid discharge (400) is blocked by means of the locking device (1100) in order to interrupt the return of fluid (F). [22] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 21, in combination with one of claims 12 to 20, wherein in the blocked state the reservoir volume (801) is divided by interrupting the return of fluid (F) by means of the blocking device (1100) into a fluid delivery reservoir volume (8011) which has the reservoir inlet (802) and is separated from the reservoir outlet (803), and a fluid intake reservoir volume (8012) which has the reservoir inlet (802) and is separated from the reservoir outlet (803). [23] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 22, wherein the locking device (1100) is integrated into the reservoir volume (801), in particular a tank volume (901) of the fluid tank (900). [24] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the locking device (11) comprises a fluid control element (1101), in particular a switching valve. [25] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 11 to 24, wherein the fluid path (600) has a separation device (1300) which is configured to separate dirt from fluid (F) flowing along the fluid path (600). [26] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 25, wherein the separation device (1300) has or is at least one filter device (1301). [27] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 26, wherein the filter device (1301) has at least one sieve filter (1304) whose mesh size is between 0.06 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably between 0.09 mm and 0.3 mm, particularly preferably between 0.125 mm and 0.25 mm. [28] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the separation device (1300) has or is a centrifugation device (1350) which is configured to centrifuge fluid (F) flowing along the fluid path (600). [29] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 28, wherein the centrifuging device (1350) has a fluid guiding element (1351, 1352, 1353) which is configured to set the flowing fluid into rotation. [30] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 29, wherein the fluid guide element (1353) is rotatably movable. [31] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 25 to 30 in combination with one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the separating device (1350) is arranged upstream and / or downstream of the fluid reservoir (800) and / or between the reservoir inlet (802) and the reservoir outlet (803), in particular in the reservoir volume (801). [32] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 31, wherein the separating device (1350) is integrated into the fluid reservoir (800), in particular the fluid tank (900). [33] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 11 to 32, wherein the fluid path (600) has a detection device (1400) which is designed to detect a degree of contamination (G) of fluid (F) flowing along the fluid path (600), in particular by a user. [34] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 33, wherein the detection device (1400) has a sensor device (1401) which is configured to detect the degree of soiling (G) and to output a sensor signal (1402) representing the degree of soiling (G). [35] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 11 to 34, wherein the fluid path (600) has a disinfection device (1500) which is configured to disinfect at least one section of the fluid path (600) and / or fluid (F) flowing along the fluid path (600). [36] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 35, wherein the disinfection device (1500) comprises a UV light source (1501, 1501'). [37] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 35 or 36, wherein the disinfection device (1500) forms or comprises a section of the fluid path (600) which is made of an antibacterial material. [38] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 35 to 37 in combination with one of claims 12 to 20, wherein the disinfection device (1500) is arranged upstream and / or downstream of the fluid reservoir (800) and / or between the reservoir inlet (802) and the reservoir outlet (803), in particular in the reservoir volume (801). [39] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 38, wherein the disinfection device (1500) is integrated into the fluid reservoir (800), in particular the fluid tank (900). [40] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 11 to 39, wherein the conveying device (700) comprises a pumping device (701) and / or a suction device (750). [41] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 40, wherein a delivery rate of the conveying device (700), in particular the pumping device (701) and / or the suction device (750), can be adjusted by a user. [42] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 41 in combination with one of claims 12 to 20, wherein the pumping device (701) is arranged downstream of the reservoir outlet (803) and is configured to pump fluid (F) from the reservoir volume (801) through the fluid discharge (400) via the reservoir outlet (803), and / or wherein the suction device (750) is configured to generate a vacuum within the fluid reservoir (800) in order to draw fluid (F) from the fluid intake (500) through the reservoir inlet (802) into the reservoir volume (801). [43] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 40 to 42, wherein the pumping device (701) comprises or is a peristaltic pump (702) which causes an external mechanical deformation of an elastic hose section (6021, 6024) of the fluid path (600) for pumping the fluid (F). [44] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 43, wherein the elastic hose section (6021, 6024) can be removed from a housing (7021) of the peristaltic pump (702) and / or separated from the peristaltic pump (702), in particular without tools. [45] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 40 to 44, wherein the suction device (750) has or is a suction turbine (751) which is configured to draw in air, in particular wherein an intake filter (753) is connected upstream of the suction turbine (751) which is configured to separate liquid and / or particles from the conveyed fluid (F). [46] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 11 to 45, wherein the tool device (300) has at least one tool (301) which is driven by means of at least one drive (302), in particular the tool device (300), to perform a tool movement, in particular oscillating, translational, rotary and / or eccentric, to act on the surface (S, S'). [47] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 46, wherein the at least one tool (301) is a scrubbing tool (303) for wet scrubbing the surface (S, S'), and wherein the surface cleaning device (1) is a scrubber-dryer (1'). [48] ​​Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 46 or 47, wherein the tool device (300) has at least one roller tool (304) which is driven rotationally about a horizontal axis of rotation. [49] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 46 to 48, wherein the tool device (300) has at least one disc tool (305, 305', 305'') which is driven rotationally about a vertical axis of rotation (D', D''). [50] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 49, wherein the tool device (300) has two disc tools (305', 305'') which are driven in a rotational direction about an axis of rotation (D', D'') and in opposite directions to each other. [51] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 50, wherein the two disc tools (305', 305'') generate a propulsion force (V) along a propulsion direction (R), wherein the propulsion force (V) assists or causes a movement of the surface cleaning device (1) during wet cleaning of the surface (S, S'). [52] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 51, wherein the axes of rotation (D', D'') of the disc tools (305', 305'') are slightly inclined to generate the propulsive force (V). [53] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 51 or 52, wherein to generate the propulsive force (V) the disc tools (305', 305'') are each subjected to an axial force (A) that is unevenly distributed and / or locally concentrated in the circumferential direction of the respective disc tool (305', 305''). [54] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 10 to 53, wherein the fluid discharge (400) has at least one outlet opening (401), in particular arranged on the bottom part (200), through which fluid (F) exits for discharge onto the surface (S, S') and / or exits from a / the fluid path (600). [55] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 54, wherein the at least one outlet opening (401) is arranged in the area of ​​the tool device (300), in particular a tool (301) of the tool device (300). [56] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 54 or 55, wherein the at least one outlet opening (401) is directed towards a circumferential surface and / or an end face of a tool (301) of the tool device (300). [57] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 54 to 56, wherein a section of the fluid path (600) located upstream of at least one outlet opening (401) extends longitudinally through a cross-section of a tool (301) of the tool device (300). [58] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 54 to 57, wherein the at least one outlet opening is arranged in relation to a direction of movement (B), in particular a / the direction of propulsion (V), of the bottom part (200) during wet cleaning of the surface (S, S') in front of the fluid intake (500), in particular a suction bar (501) of the fluid intake (500). [59] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 54 to 58, wherein the fluid discharge (400) has a section (602), in particular a hose section (6021, 6022, 6023, 6024), of the fluid path (600), wherein the section (602), in particular hose section (6021, 6022, 6023, 6024), is detachably attached at its opposite ends, in particular without tools, and is exposed between the ends, in particular continuously. [60] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 10 to 59, wherein a fluid path (600) between the fluid intake (500) and the fluid discharge (400) and / or between the fluid intake (500) and a fluid reservoir (800) and / or between a fluid reservoir (800) and the fluid discharge (400) is designed at least predominantly, preferably substantially completely, more preferably completely, as a, in particular tool-free, removable hose line (6013, 6021, 6022, 6023, 6024). [61] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 9 to 60, wherein the fluid intake (500) has a suction bar (501) arranged and / or attached to the base part (200), which rests on the surface (S, S') during wet cleaning. [62] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 61, wherein the suction bar (501) is movable relative to the tool device (300) and can be lifted off the surface (S, S'). [63] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 61 or 62, wherein the suction bar (501) is curved longitudinally in a plane oriented parallel to the surface (S, S') and at least sectionally around the tool device (300), in particular at least one tool (301) of the tool device (300). [64] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 61 to 63, wherein the suction bar (501) is arranged behind the fluid discharge (400), in particular at least one outlet opening (401) of the fluid discharge (400), with respect to a direction of movement (B), in particular a direction of propulsion (V), of the floor part (200) during wet cleaning of the surface (S, S'). [65] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 61 to 64, wherein the suction bar (501) has at least one first sealing lip (502) resting on the surface (S, S'). [66] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 65, wherein the suction bar (501) has a second sealing lip (503) resting on the surface (S, S') and a suction channel (504) formed between the first sealing lip (502) and the second sealing lip (503), in particular wherein the second sealing lip (503) has recesses which each open into the suction channel (504). [67] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a power supply device (1600) which is equipped to supply at least the tool device (300) with electrical operating energy. [68] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 67, wherein the power supply device (1600) comprises at least one energy storage device (1601), in particular a rechargeable battery. [69] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 67 or 68, wherein the power supply device (1600), in particular the at least one energy storage device (1601), is attached to the guide part (100) and / or to the base part (200), in particular detachably. [70] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 67 to 69, wherein the power supply device (1600), in particular the at least one energy storage device (1601), is a component of a carrying device (1000), wherein the carrying device (1000) is designed to be carried on the body of a user. [71] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a propulsion device (1700) which is configured to generate a propulsion force (V) along a propulsion direction (R), wherein the propulsion force (V) assists or causes a movement of the surface cleaning device (1) during wet cleaning of the surface (S, S'). [72] Surface cleaning device (1) according to one of claims 9 to 71, further comprising a connecting device (1800) by means of which the guide part (100), in particular the distal end (103) of the guide part (100), and the bottom part (200) are movably connected to each other, wherein a direction of movement (B) of the bottom part (200) during wet cleaning of the surface (S, S') can be controlled by a movement of the guide part (100) relative to the bottom part (200). [73] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 72, wherein the connecting device (1800) forms a gimbal connection (1801) between the guide part (100), in particular the distal end (103) of the guide part, and the base part (200), whereby by means of a rotation of the guide part (100) about its longitudinal axis (101) the base part (200) can be rotated about its vertical axis (201) and in a plane of rotation parallel to the surface (S, S') while resting on the surface (S, S') in order to control the direction of movement (B) of the base part (200), wherein the gimbal connection (1801) allows said controllability of the direction of movement (B) of the base part (200) for different orientations of the longitudinal axis (101) of the guide part (100) with respect to the vertical axis (201) of the base part (200). [74] Surface cleaning device (1) according to claim 73, wherein the bottom part (200) can be rotated by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, more preferably at least 90°, more preferably at least 120°, more preferably at least 150°, more preferably at least 180°, more preferably at least 210°, more preferably at least 240°, more preferably at least 270°, more preferably at least 300°, more preferably at least 330°, more preferably at least 360° by means of a rotation of the guide part (100).

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