Surface cleaning device

Abstract

Surface cleaning device, characterized in that it comprises: a nozzle that defines a dirt inlet to a return channel of the surface cleaning device, a roller brush adjacent to the nozzle that stirs up and picks up dirt from the floor to be cleaned, a roller brush chamber configured to partially enclose the roller brush, with the nozzle confined within the roller brush chamber, a liquid distributor located inside the roller brush chamber that applies cleaning fluid to at least one of the two components, the roller brush or the floor surface to be cleaned, a foam-generating component located near the roller brush chamber, comprising the following: an air pump connected to the atmosphere to extract gas, a liquid pump connected to a cleaning fluid storage chamber to pump liquid, a drive motor for the air pump to power the operation of the air pump, a drive motor for the liquid pump to drive the forward or reverse operation of the liquid pump, wherein the output axis of the drive motor for the air pump and the output axis of the drive motor for the liquid pump are arranged either parallel or perpendicular to each other, a gas-liquid mixing chamber to which the air pump and the liquid pump are each connected via pipes, allowing the mixing chamber to receive the gas delivered by the air pump and the liquid produced by the liquid pump, thus facilitating the mixing of gas and liquid within the chamber, a foam outlet that is connected to the gas-liquid mixing chamber to release foam towards the surface to be cleaned or the roller brush.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present utility model relates to a surface cleaning device. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Existing wet surface cleaners require the addition of cleaning agent to the cleaning solution tank during operation to improve cleaning performance. However, the ratio of cleaning agent to water is difficult to control manually. Too much cleaning agent leads to slippery surfaces, while omitting or using too little cleaning agent results in poor cleaning outcomes.

[0003] Applying foam to the floor surface presents one approach to solving these technical problems. For example, Chinese utility model patent CN219229787U discloses a surface cleaning device that injects foam to clean target surfaces. This device uses a single drive mechanism to operate both an air pump and a liquid pump for foam generation, thus saving space and reducing costs.

[0004] Another requirement is to improve the efficiency of foam generation more effectively and to avoid unnecessary foam residue during cleaning, which necessitates further research. CONTENTS OF THE PRESENT SAMPLE FOR USE

[0005] The present utility model relates to a surface cleaning device.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present utility model, a surface cleaning device is provided comprising: a nozzle defining a dirt inlet for a return channel leading to the surface cleaning device; a roller brush adjacent to the nozzle, which agitates and collects the contaminants from the floor to be cleaned; a roller brush chamber configured to partially enclose the roller brush, with the nozzle confined within the roller brush chamber; a liquid distributor located within the roller brush chamber, which applies cleaning fluid to at least one of the two components, the roller brush or the floor to be cleaned; and a foam-generating component positioned near the roller brush chamber, comprising: an air pump connected to atmospheric pressure to deliver gas.a liquid pump connected to the cleaning fluid storage chamber to pump liquid; a drive motor for the air pump to power the operation of the air pump; a drive motor for the liquid pump to power the forward or reverse operation of the liquid pump; wherein the output axes of the drive motor for the air pump and the drive motor for the liquid pump are substantially parallel or substantially perpendicular to each other; an air-liquid mixing chamber to which the air pump and the liquid pump are each connected by piping, allowing the air-liquid mixing chamber to receive the gas produced by the air pump and the liquid produced by the liquid pump, and facilitating the mixing of the gas and the liquid within the air-liquid mixing chamber;A foam outlet connected to the gas-liquid mixing chamber to discharge foam towards the surface to be cleaned or the roller brush; wherein, upon transmission of a start signal to the foam-generating component, the drive motor for the liquid pump drives the liquid pump to operate in the forward direction simultaneously with or after the start of the drive motor for the air pump; and wherein, upon transmission of a stop signal to the foam-generating component, the drive motor for the liquid pump ceases the drive of the liquid pump in the forward direction or switches from the drive of the liquid pump in the forward direction to the drive in the reverse direction, simultaneously with or before the cessation of operation of the drive motor for the air pump.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present utility model, a first drive is provided which is connected to the roller brush. During operation of the surface cleaning device, the first drive is supplied with energy to cause the roller brush to rotate automatically. After the operation of the first drive has ceased, the drive motor for the liquid pump drives the liquid pump in reverse.

[0008] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model, a first drive is provided which is connected to the roller brush. During operation of the surface cleaning device, the first drive is supplied with energy to drive the roller brush so that it rotates around its own axis. Simultaneously with or after the first drive is switched off, the drive motor for the liquid pump is switched off.

[0009] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model, a supply pump connected to the liquid distributor is provided. During operation of the surface cleaning device, the supply pump is powered to distribute cleaning fluid via the liquid distributor to the roller brush, thereby moistening the roller brush. Simultaneously with or after the supply pump is switched off, the drive motor for the liquid pump drives the liquid pump in the reverse direction.

[0010] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model, a supply pump connected to the liquid distributor is provided. During operation of the surface cleaning device, the supply pump is powered to distribute cleaning fluid via the liquid distributor to the roller brush, thereby moistening it. The drive motor for the liquid pump is switched off simultaneously with or after the supply pump is switched off.

[0011] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model, a check valve is provided on the pipeline from the air pump to the air-liquid mixing chamber to prevent liquid or foam from flowing back into the air pump.

[0012] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model, the foam outlet is positioned in front of the roller brush.

[0013] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model, the foam outlet is located inside the roller brush chamber and adjacent to the roller brush.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present utility model, the foam outlet is arranged outside the roller brush chamber and adjacent to it.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present utility model, the surface cleaning device comprises a wet / dry vacuum cleaner or a self-propelled cleaning robot. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present utility model and, together with the accompanying descriptions, serve to explain the principles of the utility model. These drawings are included to facilitate a better understanding of the utility model and form part of this description. Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of the structure of a surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cleaning head system according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foam-generating component according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a gas-liquid mixing chamber according to an embodiment of the present utility model. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The present utility model is now described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings and embodiments. It is understood that the specific embodiments described here serve only to illustrate the relevant content and do not constitute any limitations to the scope of the present utility model. It should also be noted that, for the sake of clarity, the drawings only show the parts relevant to the present utility model.

[0018] It should be noted that the embodiments and features within the embodiments of this utility model can be combined with one another, provided they are compatible. The technical solutions of this utility model are now described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and in conjunction with the embodiments.

[0019] Unless otherwise stated, the exemplary embodiments / examples shown are to be understood as illustrations of exemplary features of various details that offer possibilities for the practical implementation of the technical concept of the present utility model. Unless otherwise stated, the features of different embodiments / examples can therefore be additionally combined, separated, exchanged and / or rearranged without deviating from the technical concept of the present utility model.

[0020] The hatching and / or shading used in the drawings generally serves to better distinguish the boundaries between adjacent components. Unless otherwise specified, the presence or absence of hatching or shading therefore does not imply any preference or requirement regarding the specific material, material properties, dimensions, proportions, commonalities between the components shown, and / or other features, characteristics, or properties of the components. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity and / or descriptiveness, the dimensions and relative sizes of the components may be exaggerated in the drawings. Where exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, certain process steps may be carried out in a different sequence than described.For example, two processes described consecutively can be carried out essentially simultaneously or in reverse order to the described sequence. Furthermore, identical reference symbols denote identical components.

[0021] When a component is described as being "on" or "above" another component, or as being "connected to" or "coupled with" another component, that component may be directly on top of, directly connected to, or directly coupled with the other component, or there may be intermediate components. However, when a component is described as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled with" another component, there are no intermediate components. For this purpose, the term "connection" can refer to physical connections, electrical connections, etc., with or without intermediate components.

[0022] For descriptive purposes, this utility model may use spatial relative terms such as "below," "under," "in the way," "below," "above," "on," "over," "higher," and "side" (e.g., as in "side wall") to describe the relationship of one component to another component, as shown in the drawings. Beyond the orientations shown in the drawings, spatial relative terms are intended to encompass various orientations of the device during use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the drawings were reversed, a component described as "below" or "under" another component or feature would subsequently be positioned "above" that other component or feature. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both the "above" and "below" orientations.Furthermore, the device can be positioned alternatively (e.g. rotated by 90 degrees or in other orientations), with the corresponding spatial relative descriptions being interpreted accordingly.

[0023] The terminology used here is for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered restrictive. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular forms such as "one" and "the" are intended to include plural forms. When the terms "comprehensive" and / or "inclusive" and their variants are used herein, they indicate the presence of the specified features, units, steps, processes, parts, components, and / or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, units, steps, processes, parts, components, and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that the terms "essentially," "approximately," and other similar expressions as used here are intended as approximations rather than degrees of certainty.They are therefore used to account for inherent deviations in the stated measurements, calculations and / or values ​​that would be known to a person skilled in the art.

[0024] Among the various surface cleaning machines, wet cleaning machines are suitable for deep cleaning hard floor surfaces such as tiles and hardwood. Wet cleaning machines comprise a fluid supply system and a fluid recovery system, the former serving to apply cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned, and the latter serving to remove waste fluid and dirt from the surface. The fluid supply system typically includes multiple cleaning fluid reservoirs for storing cleaning fluid, a fluid dispenser for applying cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned, and fluid supply lines for conveying cleaning fluid from the reservoirs to the dispenser.The wet surface cleaning device further includes an agitator for stirring the cleaning fluid on the surface to be cleaned, thereby softening and dissolving stubborn dirt adhering to the surface. Fluid recovery systems typically include a recovery tank, a nozzle positioned next to the surface to be cleaned and connected to the recovery tank via a working air line, and a vacuum suction source connected to the working air line. This configuration draws the cleaning fluid from the surface to be cleaned, through the nozzle and the working air line, into the recovery tank.

[0025] There is a continuous need for improvements in surface cleaning equipment, including higher cleaning efficiency, improved control over the composition of cleaning solutions, and other refinements.

[0026] One such advancement is foam-based surface cleaning technology, which applies highly effective foam to enhance cleaning efficiency. This type of surface cleaner applies foam to the floor at a high flow rate and utilizes foam bursting technology to remove stubborn, caked-on dirt from hard floor surfaces. By applying this foam to hard floor surfaces, the roller brushes of the surface cleaning equipment can transfer the dirt from the floor into the foam and cleaning solution. The dirty solution is then removed from the floor surface and returned to the equipment's recovery tank as a recyclable fluid.

[0027] The quality of foam production in existing floor cleaning machines is difficult to predict because an integrated drive mechanism synchronously controls both the air and liquid pumps. While this saves considerable space in the design and reduces costs, the synchronous drive and control of the air and liquid pumps makes precise individual control difficult. As a result, the amount of foam often deviates from the operator's expectations. After the foam cleaning mode is complete, the inherent viscosity of the foam causes residual foam to remain at the foam outlet. Typically, users who desire higher cleaning performance tend to activate the foam cleaning mode frequently during floor cleaning.This leads to foam residue accumulating at the outlet after cleaning, which is an undesirable visual effect for users and, in the long term, poses a risk of the outlet becoming clogged.

[0028] The present utility model independently controls the air pump and the liquid pump within the foam generation unit. Through automated control logic, it improves foam dispensing efficiency and cleaning effectiveness while simultaneously minimizing foam residue at the outlet.

[0029] Fig. Figure 1 shows an exemplary surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model. The surface cleaning device is not limited to this embodiment; the surface cleaning device of the present utility model also includes an autonomous surface cleaning robot.

[0030] As in Fig. Figure 1 shows that the surface cleaning device 100 is used to clean a floor. Preferably, the surface cleaning device 100 is capable of wet-cleaning the floor and returning the liquid to the surface cleaning device 100 after cleaning.

[0031] The surface cleaning device 100 also includes a frame part 130. The frame part 130 is pivotally connected to the cleaning head system. More precisely, the frame part 130 is pivotally connected to the main floor brush part 140 of the cleaning head system.

[0032] A handle 170 is provided on the frame part 130. When the user grasps the handle 170, the frame part 130 can form a predetermined angle to the cleaning head system, which facilitates the operation of the surface cleaning device 100 by the user in the cleaning state.

[0033] The surface cleaning device 100 can further include a cleaning fluid storage chamber 113. The cleaning fluid storage chamber 113 is designed in the form of a box. Cleaning fluid is stored in the cleaning fluid storage chamber 113. The cleaning fluid can be, for example, clean water. A supply pump can be connected to the cleaning fluid storage chamber 113, enabling the cleaning fluid to be transported from the cleaning fluid storage chamber 113 to the main floor brush part 140.

[0034] A receiving chamber is formed on the frame section 130. The cleaning fluid storage chamber 113 can be positioned within the receiving chamber. Part of the outer surface of the cleaning fluid storage chamber 113 forms part of the outer surface of the surface cleaning device 100.

[0035] The cleaning fluid reservoir 113 can be removed from the frame part 130 and manually filled with cleaning fluid by the user. Of course, the cleaning fluid reservoir 113 of this utility model can also be filled via a cleaning fluid connection provided on the frame part 130.

[0036] If a cleaning fluid connection is provided on frame part 130, the cleaning fluid storage chamber 113 can be positioned inside the frame part 130. In this case, the cleaning fluid storage chamber 113 does not form part of the outer surface of the surface cleaning device.

[0037] The surface cleaning device 100 further comprises a recovery tank 123. The frame section 130 is designed with a receiving compartment. The recovery tank 123 is detachably attached to the frame section 130, allowing the user to remove the recovery tank 123 when it contains a significant amount of liquid. The user can then empty the wastewater from the recovery tank 123 and remove solid waste. At this point, part of the outer surface of the recovery tank 123 forms part of the outer surface of the surface cleaning device 100.

[0038] The cleaning head system comprises a main floor brush part 140. The main floor brush part 140 is configured to move across the floor to be cleaned and can form a receiving chamber for the cleaning head system. At least part of the foam-generating component 300 is arranged within this receiving chamber. In the present utility model application, the cleaning fluid, which contains cleaning agents, can also be stored in a foam reservoir on the floor brush. The cleaning agent reservoir can be removed from the main floor brush part 140 and refilled manually by the user.

[0039] The cleaning head system further includes a nozzle. The nozzle defines a dirt inlet that is connected to the return channel. In a preferred embodiment, the nozzle can be formed within the main floor brush part 140 and positioned behind the roller brush 150 to facilitate the collection of dirty water at the roller brush 150.

[0040] The nozzle is connected to the recovery tank 123 via the return channel. In the present utility model application, part of the return channel is arranged within the cleaning head system, while another part is arranged within the frame part 130. Consequently, the mixture of wastewater and air can be returned to the recovery tank 123 via the return channel.

[0041] The cleaning head system also includes a 150 mm roller brush. The 150 mm roller brush is located next to the nozzle. It is configured to agitate the floor being cleaned. This means that as the surface cleaning device performs 100 cleaning cycles, the 150 mm roller brush rotates. Consequently, the 150 mm roller brush establishes frictional contact with the floor, thus cleaning it. During this frictional contact, cleaning fluid can be supplied to the 150 mm roller brush, enabling wet cleaning of the floor.

[0042] The surface cleaning device 100 further comprises a vacuum generator. The vacuum generator is fluidically connected to the fluid recovery system to enable a forced flow of gas through the vacuum generator within the return channel. In one example, the vacuum generator can be a suction motor. The suction motor is capable of generating a vacuum. This vacuum can be applied to the recovery tank 123, allowing the gas to flow from the suction nozzle into the recovery tank 123, and consequently, the wastewater to flow in the same direction. Preferably, the vacuum generator is fluidically connected to the suction nozzle to generate a working gas that flows through the recovery path during the cleaning cycle.

[0043] The cleaning head system includes a liquid distributor. The liquid distributor is configured to deliver the cleaning fluid to the roller brush 150 and / or the floor to be cleaned. In a preferred embodiment, the liquid distributor can be configured as an outlet structure or as a nozzle structure, whereby the cleaning fluid can be sprayed onto the surface of the roller brush 150 or the floor to be cleaned under the action of the liquid supply pump. Alternatively, the liquid distributor can be positioned within the roller brush 150, thereby supplying the cleaning fluid to the inner surface of the roller brush's pile.

[0044] Accordingly, the cleaning fluid storage chamber 113 and the fluid distributor are connected to each other via a distribution channel. Part of the distribution channel is located within the cleaning head system, while another part is located within the frame section 130.

[0045] Preferably, components such as a feed pump and a heating device can be arranged on the distribution channel. The feed pump pressurizes the fluid within the cleaning fluid storage chamber 113 and feeds it to the fluid distributor, subsequently delivering it to the roller brush 150 or the floor surface to be cleaned. The heating device allows the cleaning fluid in the cleaning fluid storage chamber 113 to be heated before it is fed to the fluid distributor and then dispensed to the roller brush 150 or the floor surface to be cleaned.

[0046] The cleaning head system can further comprise a cover body 141. The cover body 141 is positioned on the main floor brush part 140 and configured to partially enclose the roller brush 150. In one example, the main floor brush part 140 forms a receiving chamber. The roller brush 150 is rotatably (self-rotating) mounted within the receiving chamber. In this case, the cover body 141 also forms part of the receiving chamber. In other words, the cover body 141 and the main floor brush part 140 together form the receiving chamber.

[0047] The cleaning head system can further include a foam outlet 182. The foam outlet 182 is configured to discharge the foam generated by the foam-generating component 300. The foam outlet 182 is positioned on the lid body 141.

[0048] In the present utility model, the foam outlet 182 serves to convey the foam produced by the foam-generating component 300 outwards from the lid body 141. In one example, the foam outlet 182 is provided in a single instance. The foam outlet 182 is positioned centrally at the front end of the cleaning head system. In another example, two foam outlets 182 are provided, arranged symmetrically at the front end of the cleaning head system. Correspondingly, three or more foam outlets 182 are evenly distributed laterally along the front end of the floor brush.

[0049] In the present utility model, the foam outlet 182 is arranged near the front end of the cleaning head system to spray foam towards the front of the cleaning head system. Preferably, the foam outlet 182 is directed downwards so that the foam can be directed onto the floor surface in front of the cleaning head system. This facilitates the cleaning of soiled floor surfaces by the roller brush 150 and thus improves the cleaning effect. In another example, the foam outlet can be positioned within the main body of the floor brush and directed towards the roller brush, allowing the foam to be sprayed onto the surface of the main body of the roller brush. This coats the surface of the main body of the roller brush with foam, thereby improving the roller brush's ability to pick up dirt particles from the floor.

[0050] The foam exiting the foam outlet spreads laterally across the surface to be cleaned in front of the cleaning head system, with the spread width not exceeding the projected width of the cleaning head system on the surface to be cleaned. This maximizes foam utilization and prevents waste.

[0051] The structure of the foam-generating component of the present utility model will now be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0052] Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the foam-generating component according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0053] As in Fig. Figure 3 shows that the foam-generating component 300 comprises an air pump 310, a liquid pump 320 and a gas-liquid mixer 330.

[0054] The air pump 310 is connected to the atmosphere to draw gas directly from the atmosphere and is able to supply gas to the gas-liquid mixer 330, for example at a high flow rate.

[0055] In one example, the air pump 310 can be driven by the drive motor for the air pump 340 to generate gas at a high flow rate. The drive motor for the air pump 340 is connected to the air pump 310 via a transmission mechanism. When the drive motor for the air pump 340 rotates, it enables the operation of the air pump 310 and the continuous delivery of gas at a high flow rate to the outside.

[0056] The air pump 310 can comprise structures such as a centrifugal pump, a piston pump, an impeller pump, or a diaphragm pump. This utility model does not restrict the type of air pump 310, provided that the air pump 310 is capable of generating high-pressure gas.

[0057] In one example, the liquid pump 320 communicates with the cleaning fluid storage chamber to supply fluid. The drive motor for the liquid pump 341 can drive it. The drive motor for the liquid pump 341 is connected to the liquid pump 320 via a transmission mechanism. When the drive motor for the liquid pump 341 operates in a forward rotation state, it enables the liquid pump 320 to operate in a first operating state, continuously dispensing fluid containing cleaning agents and / or foaming agents. When the drive motor for the liquid pump 341 operates in a reverse rotation state, it enables the liquid pump 320 to operate in a second operating state. In the second operating state, the liquid pump 320 generates an inward suction force. The liquid pump 320 is preferably a peristaltic pump.Experts will recognize that the peristaltic pump is merely a preferred embodiment. Other pump types, such as impeller pumps or piston pumps, can alternatively be used within the scope of this utility model.

[0058] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, both the air pump 310 and the liquid pump 320 are connected to the gas-liquid mixer 330. This arrangement allows the gas-liquid mixer 330 to receive the gas produced by the air pump 310 and the liquid produced by the liquid pump 320. The gas and liquid are then mixed in the gas-liquid mixer 330 to produce the foam.

[0059] In a specific configuration, such as in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the gas-liquid mixer 330 comprises a first inlet 331, a second inlet 332 and a gas-liquid mixing chamber 333.

[0060] The first inlet 331 is configured for liquid intake. In this utility model, the first inlet 331 can be connected to the liquid pump 320 via a first line. The second inlet 332 can be connected to the air pump 310 via a second line.

[0061] The gas-liquid mixing chamber 333 serves to mix the liquid and the gas. The first inlet 331 and the second inlet 332 are arranged at a predetermined angle to each other. In a preferred embodiment, the first inlet 331 and the second inlet 332 are arranged perpendicular to each other, as shown in Fig.Figure 3 illustrates this. The first inlet 331 is essentially horizontal, while the second inlet 332 is essentially vertical. The second inlet 332 is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the liquid flow direction within the gas-liquid mixing chamber 333. This arrangement facilitates more effective incorporation of gas into the liquid, thereby generating abundant foam.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the gas-liquid mixer 330 further comprises a column-shaped filter 334. The column-shaped filter 334 comprises one or more elongated filter openings. The mixture of gas and liquid is conveyed through the elongated filter openings to the foam outlet and discharged from there.

[0063] In the present utility model, the dispensing speed of the foam can be controlled by adjusting the speed of the drive motor.

[0064] The foam-generating component 300 of the present utility model further comprises a drive motor for the air pump 340 and a drive motor for the liquid pump 341. The drive motor for the air pump 340 drives the air pump 310, while the drive motor for the liquid pump 341 drives the liquid pump 320. The air pump 310 and the liquid pump 320 operate either at the same frequency or at different frequencies. In one example, the drive motor 340 for the air pump and the drive motor 341 for the liquid pump can be arranged substantially parallel within the floor brush body to facilitate the routing of the piping. Alternatively, the drive motor 340 for the air pump and the drive motor 341 for the liquid pump can be arranged substantially perpendicular to each other to save space in the design.In a preferred embodiment, the liquid pump 320 is driven in reverse by the drive motor for the liquid pump 341. This arrangement prevents foam from being discharged to the outside via the foam outlet 182, but instead causes the foam to flow back from the foam outlet 182 to the gas-liquid mixer 330. This facilitates foam recovery and prevents residual foam from remaining in the foam outlet 182.

[0065] In one example, the air pump 310 and the liquid pump 320 are each connected to the gas-liquid mixer 330 via a second line and a first line.

[0066] The present utility model comprises a one-way valve 311 within the second line of the air pump 310. The purpose of installing the one-way valve 311 is to protect the structural integrity of the air pump 310 and to prevent the backflow of liquid or other substances into the pump, which could impair its performance. In particular, it prevents foam from being drawn back into the air pump during reverse operation of the liquid pump 320. It also prevents liquid from the liquid pump 320, which is obstructed by a blocked channel in the foaming device, from flowing freely to the foam outlet 182 and instead forces it back into the air pump under hydraulic pressure.

[0067] By using a drive motor for the air pump 340 to drive the air pump 310 and a drive motor for the liquid pump 341 to drive the liquid pump 320, the foam quality can be adapted to different operating conditions. Adaptation to various work scenarios is achieved by regulating the respective activation time and operating duration of the liquid pump 320 and the air pump 310. Furthermore, the peristaltic pump configuration resolves issues of liquid adhesion that prevent dispensing. The air pump uses a dedicated drive motor to achieve high flow rates in a compact volume, resulting in a small overall pump size and low costs.Furthermore, the separate arrangement of the drive motor for the air pump 340 and the drive motor for the liquid pump 341 increases the reliability of the foaming component, which can significantly improve the cleaning efficiency of the foaming component.

[0068] The advantages of the foam-generating component according to the present utility model will now be illustrated using a specific application example of the surface cleaning device.

[0069] In particular, a control procedure for the surface cleaning device of the present utility model comprises the following steps: Determining whether the surface cleaning device is activated. If the surface cleaning device is not activated, it is activated. If the surface cleaning device is activated, it detects a signal to foam the surface to be cleaned. The device performs a self-check to determine its current status. Based on this status, it is determined whether it meets predefined conditions. If so, the foam treatment of the surface to be cleaned is permitted. The foam treatment process comprises the following steps: Sending an activation signal to the foam-generating component. The activation signal can be triggered by the user operating the interactive interface of the surface cleaning device. The user interface includes, among other things, physical or virtual buttons located on the surface cleaning device itself, or physical or virtual buttons on other operating devices outside the surface cleaning device. When the button is pressed, the activation signal is transmitted to the control unit. The control unit processes the signal and sends an execution signal to the foam-generating component to start the foaming process.Furthermore, in other operating states, for example during self-cleaning phases or automated, time-controlled cleaning programs of self-driving cleaning robots, the start signal can be sent automatically according to user-defined cleaning plans.

[0070] After the activation signal is transmitted to the foam-generating component, both the drive motor for the liquid pump and the drive motor for the air pump simultaneously start operation and initiate the foam generation process. At this point, the drive motor for the liquid pump drives the liquid pump forward, conveying the cleaning solution, which contains detergent and / or foaming agent, to the gas-liquid mixing chamber. The drive motor for the air pump drives the air pump to introduce atmospheric air into the gas-liquid mixing chamber. The cleaning solution and the atmospheric air mix in the gas-liquid mixing chamber, and the resulting foam is expelled, for example, after passing through the column-shaped filter 334.

[0071] The gas-liquid mixing chamber may retain residual cleaning fluid after previous use. Therefore, when gas and liquid are reintroduced into the gas-liquid mixer 330 for mixing, the mixing ratio may become unbalanced. For example, the gas-liquid ratio of the cleaning fluid may become supersaturated, resulting in the liquid flowing from the foam outlet 182 containing only a small amount of foam during the initial foam generation phase. To improve usability, the control unit can optionally instruct the air pump drive motor to be energized for an initial period when an execution signal is sent to the foam-generating component. During this initial period, the liquid pump drive motor remains de-energized.During the first time interval, ambient air and residual cleaning solution in the gas-liquid mixer 330 form foam, which exits from the foam outlet 182. Alternatively, in another scenario (in which no residual cleaning solution remains in the gas-liquid mixer 330), the foam outlet 182 only releases ambient air during the first time interval, without any cleaning solution exiting.

[0072] The foam cleaning mode serves as a supplementary rather than a primary function throughout the entire cleaning cycle. Consequently, the foam cleaning mode can be activated and deactivated at least once during the entire cleaning cycle. Care must be taken to avoid the scenario described above, where, after deactivation, only cleaning fluid or predominantly cleaning fluid with minimal foam output is discharged upon reactivation. Therefore, if a deactivation signal is sent to the foam-generating component, both the drive motor for the air pump and the drive motor for the liquid pump must be separately adapted for control.

[0073] In particular, when the deactivation signal is transmitted to the foam-generating component, the drive motor for the liquid pump must be deactivated immediately and simultaneously with the power cut-off of the pneumatic drive motor. Alternatively, and preferably, when the power cut-off of the pneumatic drive motor, the current direction of the drive motor for the liquid pump is reversed, causing the liquid pump to immediately switch from forward to reverse operation. It is understood that during reverse operation of the liquid pump, any residual foam or liquid in the foam outlet 182 is at least partially drawn back into the air-liquid mixing chamber. Furthermore, any residual foam or liquid in the gas-liquid mixer 330 is returned to the liquid pump or the cleaning fluid reservoir.This ensures that no foam remains in foam outlet 182 after the foam cleaning mode is deactivated. Furthermore, this reduces the phenomenon of liquid being expelled first when the foam cleaning is subsequently activated.

[0074] During cleaning, it is necessary to control the actuator's operation, for example, to maintain the rotation of the roller brush. During wet cleaning, the liquid distributor's supply pump delivers cleaning solution to the roller brush to remove stubborn stains from the floor. If the aforementioned actuators are deactivated or malfunctioning when the cleaning mode is started, excessive foam may accumulate on the floor, preventing its complete removal. Foam residue reduces friction on hard surfaces, increases the risk of slipping, and poses a safety hazard.

[0075] Therefore, at the start of the cleaning process, the roller brush motor is powered to set the brush in a stirring motion, thus picking up dirt from the floor to be cleaned. While powered, the roller brush continues to rotate to collect residual dirt, which is then vacuumed into the recovery tank of the surface cleaning device. This allows foam application to continue while the roller brush rotates, as no excessive foam residue remains on the floor surface. However, when the roller brush motor is switched off, the brush stops rotating, and residue collection ceases. Consequently, continued operation of the foam generation device would result in excessive foam residue accumulating on the floor or the brush surface, which could not be removed.Consequently, in one embodiment of the present utility model, the drive motor for the liquid pump—the main component of the foam-generating component—is to be switched off and stopped either simultaneously with or after the roller brush motor is switched off. This prevents further foam from being dispensed onto the floor or the roller brush. It should be noted that continued reverse rotation of the drive motor for the liquid pump increases the internal pressure. Therefore, the drive motor for the liquid pump should be switched off after the third time period has elapsed to prevent damage to the foam-generating component.

[0076] At the start of the cleaning process, the fluid pump is switched on to deliver cleaning fluid from the reservoir to the roller brush, moistening it. This improves the brush's ability to pick up floor particles, while residual dirt is subsequently sucked into the surface cleaning unit's collection container by negative pressure. Similar to the previous example, foam application remains possible as long as the fluid pump continuously supplies fluid. Because the fluid supply continues, the foam is further diluted, preventing excessive foam residue from accumulating on the floor surface. However, if the fluid pump is switched off, no more cleaning fluid is supplied, even if the roller brush continues to rotate.Consequently, continuing operation of the foaming component would result in excessive foam residue remaining on the floor or the surface of the roller brush, which could not be removed. Therefore, in one embodiment of the present utility model, the drive motor for the liquid pump—the main component of the foaming component—is to be switched off and stopped either simultaneously with or after the liquid pump is switched off. This prevents further foam from being dispensed onto the floor or the roller brush. It should also be understood that continuous reverse rotation of the drive motor for the liquid pump increases the internal pressure. Consequently, the drive motor for the liquid pump should be switched off after the fourth time period has elapsed to prevent damage to the foaming component.It should be understood that the aforementioned first, second, third, and fourth time durations serve solely to distinguish between different scenarios; their different designations do not necessarily imply different actual durations. The first, second, third, and fourth time cue durations mentioned above may partially overlap, be completely identical, or be entirely different.

[0077] The processing method for the surface cleaning device of the present utility model enables the cleaning of the roller brush of the surface cleaning device. After completion of the cleaning process, contaminants are removed from the roller brush, thereby preventing the emission of odors.

[0078] Specifically, the processing procedure for the surface cleaning device includes: Receiving a signal from the surface cleaning device to perform a foam treatment on the roller brush of the surface cleaning device; Determining whether the surface cleaning device is docked to the pallet; If the surface cleaning device is not docked to the pallet, docking the surface cleaning device to the pallet and subsequently triggering the request to perform a foam treatment on the roller brush of the surface cleaning device; If the surface cleaning device is docked, it performs a self-check to determine its current status. Based on this status, it assesses whether predefined conditions are met. If so, the foam treatment of the roller brush is authorized.This foam treatment can be considered a sub-cycle within the self-cleaning process, which improves the self-cleaning efficiency of both the roller brush and the associated piping.

[0079] In the present utility model, the handle of the surface cleaning device can be equipped with a foam feed button. During operation, pressing this button generates a foam treatment signal for the surface to be cleaned.

[0080] Alternatively, the foam treatment signal can be generated by methods such as operating an application.

[0081] During the foaming process, the efficiency of the foaming must be ensured so that the foam adheres completely to the surface of the roller brush. This allows the inherent cleaning power of the foam to more effectively remove adhering contaminants from the brush surface. For example, it should be prevented that additional liquid is washed onto the surface of the roller brush to avoid diluting the foam during the self-cleaning process. Therefore, the liquid distributor should stop supplying liquid to the roller brush during the foaming phase of the self-cleaning cycle. The supply pump is switched off during at least one phase of the foaming cycle to interrupt the continuous liquid supply to the roller brush.In a preferred example, during the self-cleaning cycle, the power supply to the supply pump is interrupted as soon as the foam treatment signal is received.

[0082] Simultaneously with or after the foam-generating component receives the foam-trigger signal, the drive motor for the air pump is supplied with power, while the drive motor for the liquid pump and the supply pump remain without power; and after the first time period has elapsed, the drive motor for the liquid pump is supplied with power and instructed to drive the liquid pump in the forward direction.

[0083] After completion of the foam treatment, the supply pump is reactivated to supply the roller brush with cleaning fluid, while the diluted foam and cleaning fluid mixture is returned to the surface cleaning device under vacuum.

[0084] In this description, the terms “an exemplary mode / example”, “some exemplary modes / examples”, “example”, “specific example”, or “some examples” refer to the inclusion of the specific features, structures, materials, or properties described in connection with that mode / example or example in at least one exemplary mode / example or example of the present application. In this specification, the illustrative expression of the aforementioned terms need not necessarily refer to the same example / mode or example. Furthermore, the described specific features, structures, materials, or properties may be combined appropriately in one or more examples / modes or examples.Furthermore, provided that this does not contradict each other, experts may combine and integrate different embodiments or examples described here, as well as features from different embodiments or examples.

[0085] Furthermore, the terms “first” and “second” are used solely for descriptive purposes and should not be interpreted as indicating or suggesting any relative significance or as indicating the number of technical features specified. Consequently, features designated as “first” or “second” may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In the description of this application, “several” means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless expressly and specifically stated otherwise.

[0086] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments mentioned above serve only to clearly illustrate the present utility model and do not constitute any limitations to its scope. For those skilled in the field, other variations or modifications may be made based on the above disclosure, which likewise remain within the scope of the present utility model. 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] CN 219229787U

[0003]

Claims

[1] Surface cleaning device, characterized by , that it includes: a nozzle that defines a dirt inlet to a return channel of the surface cleaning device, a roller brush adjacent to the nozzle that stirs up and picks up dirt from the floor to be cleaned, a roller brush chamber configured to partially enclose the roller brush, with the nozzle confined within the roller brush chamber, a liquid distributor located inside the roller brush chamber that applies cleaning fluid to at least one of the two components, the roller brush or the floor surface to be cleaned, a foam-generating component located near the roller brush chamber, comprising the following: an air pump connected to the atmosphere to extract gas, a liquid pump connected to a cleaning fluid storage chamber to pump liquid, a drive motor for the air pump to power the operation of the air pump, a drive motor for the liquid pump to drive the forward or reverse operation of the liquid pump, wherein the output axis of the drive motor for the air pump and the output axis of the drive motor for the liquid pump are arranged either parallel or perpendicular to each other, a gas-liquid mixing chamber to which the air pump and the liquid pump are each connected via pipes, allowing the mixing chamber to receive the gas delivered by the air pump and the liquid produced by the liquid pump, thus facilitating the mixing of gas and liquid within the chamber, a foam outlet that is connected to the gas-liquid mixing chamber to release foam towards the surface to be cleaned or the roller brush. [2] Surface cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized by that the surface cleaning device further comprises a first drive connected to the roller brush, wherein during operation of the surface cleaning device the first drive is supplied with energy to rotate the roller brush, wherein after the operation of the first drive has ceased the drive motor for the liquid pump drives the liquid pump to operate in the reverse direction. [3] Surface cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized bythat the surface cleaning device further comprises a first drive connected to the roller brush, wherein during operation of the surface cleaning device the first drive is supplied with energy to drive the roller brush so that it rotates about its own axis, wherein the drive motor for the liquid pump is switched off simultaneously with or after the first drive is switched off. [4] Surface cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized bythat the surface cleaning device further comprises a liquid supply pump connected to the liquid distributor, wherein during operation of the surface cleaning device the liquid supply pump is supplied with energy to distribute cleaning fluid via the liquid distributor to the roller brush and thereby moisten the roller brush, wherein the surface cleaning device simultaneously with or after switching off the liquid supply pump causes the drive motor for the liquid pump to drive the liquid pump to operate in the reverse direction. [5] Surface cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized by, that the surface cleaning device further comprises a liquid supply pump connected to the liquid distributor, wherein during operation of the surface cleaning device the liquid supply pump is supplied with energy to deliver cleaning fluid via the liquid distributor to the roller brush and thereby moisten the roller brush, wherein the drive motor for the liquid pump is switched off simultaneously with or after the liquid supply pump is switched off. [6] Surface cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized by , that a one-way valve is provided on the pipeline from the air pump to the gas-liquid mixing chamber to prevent the liquid or foam from flowing back into the air pump. [7] Surface cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized by that the foam outlet is positioned in front of the roller brush. [8] Surface cleaning device according to claim 7, characterized by that the foam outlet is located inside the roller brush chamber and near the roller brush. [9] Surface cleaning device according to claim 7, characterized by , that the foam outlet is located outside the roller brush chamber and next to the roller brush chamber. [10] Surface cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized by that the surface cleaning device is a wet / dry vacuum cleaner or a self-driving cleaning robot.

Images