MOBILE CLEANING UNIT FOR CLEANING RESPIRATORY PRODUCTS

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a mobile cleaning unit and a method for cleaning and, optionally, disinfecting respiratory devices or components thereof. Such devices and methods can be used generally to clean respiratory devices or their components, for example, respiratory devices for rescue workers such as firefighters, technical relief organizations, or paramedics; respiratory devices for divers; or, more generally, for individuals working in hazardous or critical environments, as well as for armed forces and security forces such as police officers. The proposed devices and methods can also be used for respiratory devices in the medical field, such as breathing masks for oxygen supply and surgery. In particular, the cleaning of breathing masks or demand valves is a generally suitable area of ​​application. Technical background

[0002] Breathing apparatus, such as respirators or demand valves, is generally part of the personal protective equipment of, for example, rescue workers, armed forces, or security personnel. A wide variety of breathing apparatus for different applications is known from current technology. For example, rescue workers such as firefighters use respirators with filters to remove harmful components from the inhaled air. In many cases, however, a demand valve is used, either as an alternative or in addition to a filter, through which the user is ventilated with a breathing gas, such as compressed air. Demand valves, which are also frequently referred to as breathing regulators, generally allow a user to breathe from a compressed gas cylinder or other compressed gas connection and thus, for example, to remain underwater or in other unbreathable or toxic atmospheres.For this purpose, the pressurized gas, for example compressed air, from the pressurized gas connection is adjusted by the lung regulator to a pressure prevailing in the user's working environment.

[0003] Breathing apparatus or its components must generally be cleaned, sanitized, dried, inspected, and, if necessary, repaired and repackaged after each use. Cleaning is intended to remove all contamination resulting from use or storage, ensuring that the breathing apparatus is macroscopically clean and hygienically sound before being made available, for example, for the next steps in reprocessing. The same requirements generally apply to other components of breathing apparatus, such as attachments and accessories for breathing masks, like filters or demand valves. Since breathing apparatus and its components are generally safety-relevant devices, several requirements must be observed during their cleaning.In addition to thorough cleaning and sanitization, it is often necessary to ensure that accessories remain assigned to their respective breathing masks for technical reasons. Furthermore, it is generally required that gas-carrying areas of certain components of breathing apparatus, such as gas-carrying areas of demand valves, must not come into contact with cleaning fluid, such as water and / or cleaning solution.

[0004] In many cases, respiratory equipment, such as breathing masks and their accessories, is either cleaned by hand or washed in modified washing machines using protective bags and / or adapters. For example, EP 0 935 687 B1 discloses a washing machine that has a tub with a drum. The drum's outer shell has a convex structure facing inwards, with holes arranged at the corners of the convexity's outer edges. Such washing machines allow for particularly gentle cleaning of equipment for rescue workers.

[0005] From EP 1 088 928 A1, a holding system for respiratory masks in a laundry treatment machine is known. The holding system has a carrying handle which is arranged to rotate in a drum of the laundry treatment machine and to which the respiratory masks can be attached.

[0006] Devices for treating protective suits are known from DE 200 03 743 U1 and DE 298 22 172 U1. These devices use clothes hangers that incorporate flexible air outlet nozzles. The clothes hangers are each attached to a swiveling device. Cleaning breathing apparatus using these devices is generally not possible or only possible with great difficulty.

[0007] From DE 10 2005 033 618 B3, a device for cleaning respiratory masks is known. The device comprises a lockable housing and at least one receptacle arranged in a carrier for at least one respiratory mask. Furthermore, a nozzle arrangement and a brush arrangement are provided, whereby brushing of the respiratory masks occurs through movement of the masks. However, the disclosed device does not allow for the individual assignment and cleaning of mask accessories. Furthermore, the cleaning of gas-carrying elements, such as demand valves, is not possible with the disclosed device. Also known from DE 200 03 744 U1 is a device for cleaning, disinfecting, and drying respiratory masks, which has a carrying frame with an associated nozzle system and individual treatment stations.This device is also fundamentally unsuitable for cleaning gas-carrying elements and accessories.

[0008] A cleaning device for compressed air breathing apparatus is known from DE 10 2007 009 936 A1. This device has a receiving chamber limited by a protective grille and rotating nozzle carriers. The nozzle carriers are located outside the protective grille. A disadvantage of the depicted device, however, is that cleaning fluid can penetrate into gas-carrying areas.

[0009] The cleaning of sensitive components of respiratory devices, such as demand valves, is generally carried out manually. Manual cleaning can sometimes be supplemented by placing the components in ultrasonic cleaning devices. However, a method and a device for cleaning demand valves are known from DE 10 2007 012 768 B4. In this method, the items to be cleaned are placed on holders of a rotating element and immersed several times in a liquid bath containing cleaning fluid, disinfectant, and rinsing fluid. Demand valves are first pressurized with compressed air to create a seal between the valve and hose connection and then immersed in the liquid bath.However, a disadvantage of such immersion methods is that elaborate supports with corresponding actuators are required to ensure the removal of cleaning fluid from the various cavities after cleaning through appropriate movements.

[0010] DE 100 20 835 A1 describes a device for treating respiratory masks. It includes a receptacle for loading respiratory masks, to which the masks are connected via the breathing apparatus connection. The document further describes that a collection unit for collecting treatment agents and a pump for supplying these agents are provided in a compartment of the device.

[0011] US Patent 3,881,503 A discloses a device for washing and decontaminating anesthesia equipment. It features a nozzle system through which high-pressure jets of water can be sprayed onto the items being cleaned.

[0012] German patent DE 11 74 169 B describes a device for cleaning respiratory masks. A rotatable tubular frame is provided in a housing, in which the masks to be cleaned are clamped onto holders. The respirators are moved by the rotatable frame through a bath of cleaning fluid in a trough.

[0013] WO 2011 / 144518 A2 describes a cleaning device for cleaning breathing apparatus. The cleaning device comprises at least one cleaning chamber for accommodating at least one breathing apparatus and at least one fluid system for supplying the breathing apparatus with at least one cleaning fluid. The cleaning device further comprises at least one pressurization device with at least one pressure port. The pressure port is connectable to at least one gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus. The pressurization device is configured to pressurize the gas-carrying element with pressurized gas.

[0014] Despite the advantages gained from established methods and devices for cleaning breathing apparatus, some technical challenges remain. In particular, extended operations, such as large fires, present emergency responders with technical and logistical challenges. Since on-site cleaning would only be possible manually, contaminated protective equipment is collected on-site and transported back to the command center for cleaning. This necessitates equipping emergency personnel with replacement equipment on-site, increasing operational costs and logistical effort. Especially during larger operations and those involving significant distances to the command center or a suitably equipped breathing apparatus workshop, the availability of personal protective equipment is often limited.Furthermore, in the case of chemical accidents or other hazardous material incidents, for example, the transport of contaminated personal protective equipment is associated with the risk of spreading the hazardous materials and contaminating additional surfaces or people, who then also have to undergo a cleaning process.

[0015] WO 2013 / 024455 A1 discloses a mobile diving base comprising a substructure that includes various elements such as a tray, storage compartments, hanging devices or carrying cases for diving cylinders, compressor hoses for filling the diving cylinders, a rotating hanging bar for wetsuits and drysuits, a conveyor belt with hoses and sprays for washing diving equipment in drawers, and another conveyor belt with hoses and sprays for washing wetsuits, diving cylinders, and BCDs. The diving base may also include a ramp or access stairs and a protective canopy. In particular, WO 2013 / 024455 A1 describes a mobile cleaning unit comprising: at least one cart with at least one support surface and at least one chassis; at least one compressed gas source mounted on the cart; and at least one cleaning device mounted on the cart for cleaning breathing apparatus.The cleaning device comprises at least one cleaning chamber for receiving at least one breathing apparatus, and at least one fluid device for supplying the breathing apparatus with at least one cleaning fluid, wherein the fluid device has at least one nozzle. Technical objective

[0016] It would therefore be desirable to provide a device and a procedure that address the problems described above in handling personal protective equipment. In particular, devices and procedures should be provided that simplify logistics during large-scale operations and that prevent the risk of uncontrolled spread of hazardous substances through the transport of personal protective equipment. Disclosure of the invention

[0017] Accordingly, a mobile cleaning unit and a method for cleaning breathing apparatus are proposed, comprising the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination apparent to a person skilled in the art, are described in the dependent claims.

[0018] In the following, the terms "have," "exhibit," "comprise," or "include," or any grammatical variations thereof, are used in a non-exclusive manner. Accordingly, these terms can refer both to situations in which, apart from the features introduced by these terms, no other features are present, and to situations in which one or more additional features are present. For example, the expression "A has B," "A exhibits B," "A comprises B," or "A includes B" can refer both to the situation in which, apart from B, no other element is present in A (i.e., a situation in which A consists solely of B) and to the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more other elements are present in A, such as element C, elements C and D, or even further elements.

[0019] Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more," as well as grammatical variations of these terms, when used in connection with one or more elements or features and intended to express that the element or feature may be present once or multiple times, are generally used only once, for example, when the feature or element is first introduced. Upon subsequent mention of the feature or element, the corresponding term "at least one" or "one or more" is generally no longer used, without restricting the possibility that the feature or element may be present once or multiple times.

[0020] Furthermore, the terms "preferably," "in particular," "for example," or similar terms are used in the following text in conjunction with optional features without limiting alternative embodiments. Features introduced by these terms are optional features, and it is not intended that these features limit the scope of protection of the claims, and in particular the independent claims. As the person skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be implemented using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by "in one embodiment of the invention" or by "in an exemplary embodiment of the invention" are understood as optional features without limiting alternative embodiments or the scope of protection of the independent claims.Furthermore, these introductory expressions are intended to leave all possibilities of combining the features introduced herein with other features, whether optional or non-optional features, unaffected.

[0021] The first aspect proposed is a mobile cleaning unit for cleaning and, optionally, disinfecting respiratory equipment. The mobile cleaning unit includes: at least one wagon with at least one support surface and at least one chassis; at least one compressed gas source mounted on the wagon, in particular a compressed air source;and at least one cleaning device mounted on the cart for cleaning the breathing apparatus, the cleaning device comprising: ∘ at least one cleaning chamber for receiving at least one breathing apparatus, ∘ at least one fluid device for supplying the breathing apparatus with at least one cleaning fluid, the fluid device having at least one nozzle, ∘ at least one holder for receiving the breathing apparatus that can be inserted into the cleaning chamber, the holder being configured to align the breathing apparatus relative to the fluid device, ∘ at least one pressurizing device connectable to the pressurized gas source with at least one pressure port, the pressure port being connectable to at least one gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus, the pressurizing device being configured to supply the gas-carrying element with pressurized gas while the breathing apparatus is supplied with the cleaning fluid.

[0022] The term "breathing apparatus," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to devices that are in any way designed to supply breathing gas to at least one human and / or animal user. These breathing apparatuses may be complete, ready-to-use devices or components thereof, so that no distinction is made in the following discussion between breathing apparatuses and their components. In particular, the breathing apparatuses may include breathing masks, respirators, hoses, valves, filters, compressed gas cylinders, demand valves, or combinations of these and / or other elements.

[0023] The term "cleaning," as used here, is also a broad term to which its usual and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to the removal of adhering dirt or other contaminants from goods to be cleaned, and optionally also to a germ-reducing and / or germicidal effect, or even a disinfecting effect.

[0024] The term "cleaning unit," as used here, is also a broad term, and its usual and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be applied. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a unit, i.e., a device or a group of devices that can be handled as a whole or together, and which is designed for cleaning items. Accordingly, a "mobile cleaning unit" can be understood as a cleaning unit that is mobile, in particular in such a way that it can be moved from one place to another by one or two people, preferably without the aid of transport equipment such as forklifts or pallet trucks, for example, by rolling it.

[0025] The term "cart," as used here, is also a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a mobile receiving device, especially a rolling receiving device, for receiving one or more objects in at least one interior space and / or on at least one support surface. In particular, the cart can be designed as a trolley and / or as a roll container. Accordingly, the cart has at least one support surface, i.e., a surface on which goods to be transported can be placed.The support surface can be at least partially flat and can, for example, be the surface of at least one support plate or base plate, which may be made of plastic, wood-based material, wood, or metal. The cart can also have a chassis, i.e., a device by which the cart can be rolled, such as one or more rollers, wheels, cylinders, or balls. In particular, the cart can have, for example, three or four wheels, one or two of which may be rotatable. Furthermore, the chassis can have at least one parking brake by which, for example, the wheels or the chassis can be locked. The cart can be equipped with a device that enables or facilitates pushing it by hand, such as a handle.

[0026] The term "compressed gas," as used here, is also a broad term, to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to any gas that has a pressure above normal atmospheric pressure, i.e., a pressure above 1 bar. In particular, this can be a pressure above 1.5 bar, especially above 2 bar, and most preferably above 3 bar. In particular, the compressed gas can be compressed air, also known as pressurized air.

[0027] Accordingly, the term "compressed gas source," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a source for supplying compressed gas within the meaning of the above definition, for example, compressed air. The compressed gas source can therefore be, in particular, a compressed air source, or it can comprise at least one compressed air source. The compressed gas source can, in particular, comprise a device for storing compressed gas, for example, at least one compressed gas cylinder, and / or at least one device for compressing gas, in particular a compressor.Alternatively or additionally, the compressed gas source can also have at least one external pressure connection for connecting at least one external compressed gas source, for example a building-provided compressed gas line, an external compressor or an external compressed gas cylinder.

[0028] The pressurized gas source is mounted on the cart. In general, in this or any other context, the term "mounted on the cart" should be understood to mean the term as it is understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to any fixed mounting of at least one object in or on the cart. The object mounted on the cart may, for example, be connected to the cart by means of at least one fixing device, such as a detachable connection, at least one fixing strap, at least one screw, at least one clamp, at least one friction-fit fixing device, at least one positive-locking fixing device, or a combination of two or more of these fixing devices.Furthermore, the vehicle may also have at least one receptacle in which the object to be mounted is received, for example at least one compartment for receiving the object, such as a lockable compartment, shelf compartment or container compartment.

[0029] Furthermore, as explained above, at least one cleaning device for cleaning the breathing apparatus is mounted on the vehicle. The term "cleaning device" is to be understood in principle as the meaning that a person skilled in the art attributes to this term. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to any device that is set up to clean at least one item as defined above.

[0030] The cleaning device comprises at least one cleaning chamber for accommodating at least one breathing apparatus. The term "cleaning chamber," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood to have its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a space partially or completely enclosed by at least one wall or at least one housing, in which cleaning as defined above can take place. This cleaning chamber can, in principle, be designed as a closed, open, or openable cleaning chamber.It is particularly preferred if the cleaning chamber is enclosed on all sides or at least in two dimensions by a housing, which may be completely closed but may also have one or more through-holes and / or openings. The cleaning chamber may be designed as a rigid cleaning chamber, i.e., a cleaning chamber that does not change its position and / or orientation during a cleaning process. However, it may also be designed as a movable cleaning chamber, for example, a pivotable and / or rotatable cleaning chamber that changes its position and / or orientation within the cleaning device during a cleaning process, for example, by twisting, rotating, spinning, vibrating, or similar movements.In this respect, the cleaning chamber can, for example, be designed as the wash chamber of a dishwasher and the cleaning device as a dishwasher, and / or the cleaning chamber can be designed as the drum of a washing machine and the cleaning device in the form of a washing machine. For example, commercial or domestic dishwashers and / or washing machines can be modified according to the invention. In particular, however, it can be a modified dishwasher of the type commonly used for commercial purposes, especially a single-chamber dishwasher with exactly one cleaning chamber, whose fluid system has two separate systems, namely a wash system and a separate rinse system with a separate rinse tank in which a rinse fluid can be pre-tempered during the wash cycle.

[0031] The cleaning device further comprises at least one fluid system for supplying the breathing apparatus with at least one cleaning fluid. The term "cleaning fluid" can generally be understood to mean the ordinary and common meaning that a person skilled in the art attributes to this term. In particular, this term can be understood to mean any liquid suitable for cleaning the item being cleaned, in this case, especially the breathing apparatus. It can be an aqueous liquid, for example, water with or without the addition of surfactants, such as detergents, rinse aids, or the like. As explained above, one, two, or even more cleaning fluids can be used in the cleaning device, for example, a rinsing fluid and a final rinse fluid.For example, the rinsing liquid can be water with the addition of one or more cleaning concentrates, and the rinsing liquid can be, for example, fresh water with or without the addition of rinse aid.

[0032] The term "fluid device," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a device by means of which the breathing apparatus housed within the cleaning chamber can be directly or indirectly exposed to the cleaning fluid in any manner. This exposure can occur, for example, by direct application, by spraying, dripping, irradiation, or a combination of the aforementioned and / or other direct application methods, in which cleaning fluid exiting the fluid device impinges directly on the breathing apparatus. This type of application is particularly suitable for a fixed cleaning chamber, such as in a dishwasher.Alternatively or additionally, the fluid supply can also be arranged so that the fluid supply completely or partially fills the cleaning chamber with cleaning fluid, ensuring that the cleaning fluid contained in the cleaning chamber comes into contact with the cleaning fluid in at least one position of the cleaning chamber. This method of supply is particularly useful when the cleaning chamber is designed as a movable chamber, for example, in the form of a drum. Combinations of the aforementioned supply methods and / or other supply methods are also possible. Regardless of whether the cleaning chamber is rigid or movable, the supply of cleaning fluid can be carried out simply by supplying the breathing apparatus with the cleaning fluid only once.Alternatively or additionally, cleaning can also be carried out using a recirculating system by repeatedly applying cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus. Such recirculating systems and cycles are known, for example, from conventional dishwashers or washing machines. In particular, a combined operation within a single cleaning program is also possible, in which the breathing apparatus is rinsed or washed once or several times using a recirculating system with at least one cleaning fluid, followed by at least one rinse cycle in which the breathing apparatus is treated once with a rinse fluid without recirculating the cleaning fluid. At least one drying cycle can then follow. The cleaning device can be designed as an automated program and can include a control unit configured to execute at least one cleaning program.

[0033] The fluid device has at least one nozzle. The term "nozzle," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a device in which a fluid is supplied to an opening by a supply device and can exit from that opening, for example, in one or more drops or jets. The nozzle can, in particular, be accommodated in one of the several nozzle arms within the cleaning chamber, for example, in one or more rotatable nozzle arms. For example, the cleaning device can have one or more nozzle arms above the breathing apparatus holder and one or more nozzle arms below the breathing apparatus holder.As explained above, a separate nozzle system can be provided for the rinsing process in recirculation mode and a separate nozzle system for the final rinsing process. The final rinsing nozzle system can, for example, be fed directly from a separate final rinsing tank, while the main rinsing nozzle system can be fed from a tank located at the bottom of the cleaning chamber. However, other configurations are also possible.

[0034] The cleaning device has at least one holder that can be inserted into the cleaning chamber to accommodate the breathing apparatus. The term "holder," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood to have its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a device designed to accommodate one or more elements and to store or hold them in a fixed position, especially in a specific orientation. In particular, the holder can have at least one basket. The holder can be permanently installed in the cleaning chamber, but it can also be movable and / or designed as a removable holder that can be taken out of the cleaning chamber, preferably without the need for any additional tools.In particular, the holder can have at least one basket that can be removed from the cleaning chamber. The holder is designed to align and preferably fix the breathing apparatus relative to the fluid system. For example, this fixation can be achieved such that the breathing apparatus is exposed to cleaning fluid at critical points, but the cleaning fluid can preferably flow out of these critical areas after exposure, for example, from concave curves of breathing masks. The holder can also be designed to pivot, so that different positions can be assumed during various steps of a cleaning process. For example, at least one first position can be provided for exposure to the cleaning fluid, and at least one second position for emptying the breathing apparatus.The first position, at least, can also change during the program, allowing for application from multiple directions without requiring any adjustments to the fluid system, such as the nozzles, in their position and / or orientation, although such adjustments are still possible. Emptying can be achieved, for example, by tilting and / or rotating the holder, enabling the emptying of breathing masks and / or the inner sections of hoses. Alternatively, or in addition to a holder for securing the breathing apparatus, it is also possible to place the breathing apparatus in the cleaning chamber without alignment or fixation.

[0035] In general, the cleaning device can therefore be a modified dishwasher and / or a modified washing machine, or comprise such a dishwasher or washing machine in a modified state. It is particularly preferred if the cleaning device is configured such that the cleaning fluid is applied by irradiation, spraying, or dripping. In particular, the breathing apparatus should not be immersed in the cleaning fluid during application, or at least not completely, so that the cleaning fluid can flow off and / or drip off the breathing apparatus immediately upon or immediately after contact.This prevents the cleaning fluid from penetrating the gas-carrying element during prolonged exposure or even when the breathing apparatus is pressurized, and / or prevents cleaning fluid residue from remaining in the breathing apparatus. For example, this is ensured if the cleaning device is designed as a dishwasher, in which the breathing apparatus is held in a holder and is sprayed with cleaning fluid from at least one nozzle, for example, from above and / or below the holder, and after spraying, the cleaning fluid can flow and / or drip directly from the breathing apparatus into a wash tank.

[0036] The holder can be designed, in particular, to have several different recesses configured to accommodate different types of breathing apparatus and / or different components of the breathing apparatus. Specifically, the holder can comprise multiple compartments and / or recesses in which different components of a breathing apparatus can be accommodated and, if necessary, fixed and / or spatially aligned, while the components remain related to one another so that, after cleaning, they can be re-assigned and reassembled without mixing. For example, the holder can comprise at least two groups of recesses, each with a plurality of recesses, with each group of recesses being assigned to a breathing apparatus and each group of recesses comprising several different types of recesses for accommodating different components of a breathing apparatus.

[0037] The cleaning device further comprises at least one pressurization device, connectable to the pressurized gas source and having at least one pressure port. The term "pressurization device," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood to have its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a device provided by the cleaning device which is configured to supply pressurized gas. Specifically, the pressurization device can comprise at least one pressurized gas port and / or at least one pressurized gas valve on the cleaning device, which is connectable to the pressurized gas source on one side and to the pressure port on the other.For example, the pressurization device can be a component of the cleaning device, which can be controlled, for instance, by a control unit of the cleaning device, so that, for example, pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source can be supplied to the pressure connection via at least one valve in one or more program steps. The gas pressure supplied by the pressurized gas source can be passed on undiminished or throttled. The pressurization device can, for example, have a nozzle for direct or indirect connection to the pressurized gas source, such as a threaded nozzle and / or a nozzle with a quick-release coupling. The pressurization device also has at least one pressure connection for connection to the at least one gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus. The term "pressure connection" is to be understood in its usual sense, as understood by those skilled in the art.In particular, a pressure connection can be understood to be any connection of the pressurization device through which the pressurization gas can be supplied to the device. This pressure connection can be located inside the cleaning chamber and / or be accessible from inside the cleaning chamber. The provision of multiple pressure connections is also conceivable. The pressure connection should be connectable to at least one gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus in the cleaning chamber, preferably to several gas-carrying elements of several breathing apparatuses in the cleaning chamber. The term "gas-carrying element" is a broad term to which the usual meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed.In general, this term can be understood as an element that, when a breathing apparatus is used by a human or animal user, is exposed to a breathing gas or can otherwise come into contact with the breathing gas. In particular, this can be a demand valve and / or a breathing hose with at least one valve. Specifically, the gas-carrying element can be an element that has at least one hose and / or at least one other type of gas-carrying device with an interior space and / or at least one valve, which, as a rule, must not be exposed to cleaning fluid.For example, the gas-carrying element can be a section of the breathing apparatus that is subjected to a pressure above normal operating pressure, such as a gas-carrying section of a breathing apparatus operating above normal pressure, for example, above 1.5 bar, and especially above 2 bar. Specifically, it can be a breathing gas-carrying section of a demand valve, which can be either a single-stage or a multi-stage demand valve. The gas-carrying element can be, for example, part of a first stage and / or a second stage and / or potentially further stages of the demand valve, or it can be the entire demand valve. For example, the gas-carrying element can be a section between a hose connection and a valve of a demand valve, or it can encompass such a section.

[0038] A connection between the pressure port and the gas-carrying element can be understood to be, in particular, a fluidic connection, especially a gas connection, such that the pressurized gas from the pressurization device can be transferred into the gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus, especially into an interior space of the gas-carrying element, preferably without any leakage and / or pressure loss occurring at this connection. Furthermore, the connection between the pressure port and the gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus can optionally comprise at least one mechanical connection, in particular a positive-locking and / or force-locking connection, so that the breathing apparatus can be firmly connected to the pressure port.For example, this could be a screw connection, a clamp connection, or a clamping connection, for which the pressure connection and / or the breathing apparatus may each have at least one mechanical connecting element. In particular, this could be a plug connection in the form of a quick-release coupling and / or a threaded connection, for example, a coupling piece for a breathing connection of a regulator. A quick-release coupling is generally understood to be a gas-tight and / or liquid-tight plug connection between two fluid-carrying components, which can be mechanically secured by a simple and quick-to-install and release mechanism, in particular without the use of a screw closure, for example, by at least one clamping hook and / or a bayonet fitting and / or a screw closure, such as a union nut.The connection can be made without tools.

[0039] In particular, the pressure connection can include multiple fixed or interchangeable adapters for connecting to different types of gas-carrying elements. These adapters allow multiple gas-carrying elements to be connected directly or indirectly to the pressure connection, for example, different types and / or models of gas-carrying elements, such as those from different manufacturers or brands. For instance, an adapter set may include multiple different couplings (e.g., quick-release couplings) and / or threads for connecting different gas-carrying elements. These may include different quick-release coupling systems and / or standard threads. Alternatively or additionally, the pressure connection (at least one) can also be a fixed pressure connection for a specific type of connector.It must be designed for a specific type of gas-carrying element. It is particularly advantageous if the pressure connection and / or the coupling system are designed so that, on the one hand, no gas can escape when no counterpart is connected, and that in this case, no other medium, for example cleaning fluid, can enter the gas-carrying element.

[0040] The pressurization device is configured to pressurize the gas-carrying element with compressed gas during the application of the cleaning fluid. Particularly preferably, the pressurization device is configured such that the pressurization with the compressed gas is carried out in such a way that all cleaning fluid is kept out of the pressurized interior of the breathing apparatus. The cleaning device can, in particular, be designed such that the pressurization via the pressurization device takes place during at least one cleaning process, for example, during at least one program step of a single-step or multi-step cleaning program. In particular, the pressurization with the compressed gas can take place simultaneously with the application of the cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus.The pressure connection can therefore be located, in particular, inside the cleaning chamber, so that simultaneous application of pressurized gas and cleaning fluid is possible.

[0041] The pressurization device, as described above, can be connected to the compressed gas source. This connection can be permanent or detachable. The connection can be established, for example, by at least one compressed gas hose. This at least one compressed gas hose can, for instance, be provided between at least one compressed gas cylinder and / or at least one compressor of the compressed gas source and the pressurization device. The compressed gas hose can, for example, have appropriate connecting elements on both ends, in particular corresponding threads and / or quick-release couplings.

[0042] The cart can, in particular, have at least one push frame with at least one handle, especially a push bar. For example, the cart can have a horizontally extending support surface and a push frame extending vertically upwards from one end of the support surface, for example with a horizontal crossbar as a handle. The handle can, in particular, be equipped with a brake, for example, a brake that can act directly or indirectly on the chassis. In particular, the handle can have at least one dead man's brake, i.e., a brake that is automatically activated when a user releases the handle.

[0043] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the mobile cleaning unit allows the breathing apparatus to be purged with compressed gas. Accordingly, the mobile cleaning unit can, for example, also include at least one compressed gas gun, in particular a compressed air gun, which can be connected to the compressed gas source. This gun can be easily maneuverable via a compressed gas hose and can be hung on a bracket of the mobile cleaning unit when not in use.

[0044] The compressed gas source can, in particular, comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a compressed gas cylinder; a compressor; a compressed gas connection for connecting an external pressure source. As described above, the compressed gas source can, in particular, be detachably mounted on the cart, for example, by means of suitable mounts and / or fixing elements such as one or more compartments and / or tension straps.

[0045] The mobile cleaning unit can further comprise at least one wastewater tank mounted on the cart. The wastewater tank can be any type of tank, for example, a container made of stainless steel and / or plastic for liquids, with at least one opening, which is preferably closable. The wastewater tank can, for example, hold a sufficient quantity of wastewater for at least one cleaning cycle, for example, at least 5 liters or at least 10 liters. The wastewater tank can, in particular, be connected to at least one drain of the cleaning device. The wastewater tank can, in particular, be detachably mounted on the cart, for example, by at least one fixing element and / or by at least one mounting compartment for the wastewater tank. The wastewater tank can furthermore have at least one drain opening for disposing of the liquids contained therein.For example, a permanent or a detachable connection, such as a hose connection, can exist between the wastewater tank and the drain of the cleaning device.

[0046] The mobile cleaning unit may also include at least one fresh water treatment system mounted on the vehicle for treating fresh water. The fresh water treatment system may be connected, in particular directly or indirectly, to at least one inlet of the cleaning device. For example, it may be necessary on-site to first filter low-quality fresh water and / or to completely or partially remove certain impurities and / or salts. Accordingly, the term "fresh water treatment system" can generally be understood to mean whatever meaning a person skilled in the art would attribute to this term. In particular, the fresh water treatment system may be or comprise a device designed to remove at least one interfering component and / or impurity from the supplied fresh water.In particular, the fresh water treatment plant may include at least one device selected from the group consisting of: a reverse osmosis plant; an ion exchanger; a fresh water filter.

[0047] Accordingly, it may also be necessary to dispose of wastewater on-site, ensuring that no contaminants from the cleaning equipment enter the environment and groundwater, particularly if the operation involves the use of environmental toxins. The wastewater tank described above offers one solution, although transporting the wastewater to a disposal site can involve considerable logistical effort. Alternatively or additionally to a wastewater tank, the mobile cleaning unit can also include at least one wastewater treatment plant mounted on the vehicle. The term "wastewater treatment plant" can be understood generally as it is understood by experts. Specifically, a wastewater treatment plant can be or include a device that removes at least one undesirable substance from the wastewater.Accordingly, the wastewater treatment plant can, for example, comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of a filter and a reverse osmosis system. Other configurations are also possible. The wastewater treatment plant can be connected to, and in particular connected to, the at least one outlet of the purification device. If both a wastewater tank and a wastewater treatment plant are provided, a switchable valve can, for example, be provided by means of which a selection can be made as to whether wastewater from the outlet is disposed of in the wastewater treatment plant or in the wastewater tank. A combination of both is also possible.

[0048] Furthermore, sufficient quantity and / or quality of fresh water is not always available during operation. Accordingly, the mobile cleaning unit can, for example, include at least one fresh water tank mounted on the vehicle. The fresh water tank can be any container, for example, made of plastic and / or metal, particularly stainless steel, capable of holding a sufficient quantity of fresh water for at least one cleaning cycle, for example, a quantity of at least 5 liters or, in particular, at least 10 liters. The fresh water tank can be connected to, and in particular connected to, at least one inlet of the cleaning device.For example, at least one switchable valve can be provided, allowing the user to select, automatically or manually, whether fresh water from an external source (possibly after treatment by a water treatment plant) or from the fresh water tank is supplied to the cleaning device. The fresh water tank can also be used in combination with other elements, such as a water treatment plant, which may also be integrated into the mobile cleaning unit. Alternatively, the fresh water tank can be connected directly to the cleaning device.

[0049] As mentioned above, the cart can, for example, have one or more compartments for storing components of the mobile cleaning unit and / or accessories. Accordingly, the mobile cleaning unit can, for example, have at least one cabinet mounted on the cart for storing cleaning equipment. Furthermore, the cabinet can also be configured to accommodate one or more of the aforementioned components, such as one or more of the following: the wastewater tank, the freshwater tank, the freshwater treatment plant, the wastewater treatment plant, the compressed gas source, a generator, and a battery.The compartments can be closed off, for example, by means of appropriate doors, or they can simply be designed as open shelves, with the latter preferably providing a fixing for the elements contained therein by other means, for example by means of appropriate tension straps or similar fixing elements.

[0050] The mobile cleaning unit may also have at least one worktop mounted on the cart. For example, this worktop may be provided or formed by at least one surface of the at least one cabinet element. In particular, the worktop may be made of a durable material, such as stainless steel.

[0051] Furthermore, a suitable power source for operating the cleaning device and / or other components of the mobile cleaning unit is not always available during operation. Therefore, the mobile cleaning unit may also have at least one power generator mounted on the vehicle. This could, for example, be a fuel-powered generator. This generator may be housed in at least one compartment of the vehicle, such as a roll container, or it may be located separately. Additionally, the mobile cleaning unit may also have at least one power distribution unit, which can be connected to an external power supply and provide appropriate power outlets for components of the mobile cleaning unit, such as the cleaning device and / or other components.This can also include, for example, a current transformation, so that the mobile cleaning unit can also include at least one transformer and / or at least one current transformer.

[0052] The mobile cleaning unit may also include at least one wastewater lifting station. The term "wastewater lifting station," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a system designed to discharge wastewater accumulating below a backflow level without causing backflow and / or to raise wastewater to a higher level, in particular by pumping it. The wastewater lifting station may operate automatically. The wastewater lifting station may be permanently or detachably connected to the vehicle.

[0053] The mobile cleaning unit may further include at least one fresh water connection, for example, at least one inlet nozzle that can supply one or more consumers of the mobile cleaning unit with fresh water, in particular the cleaning device. The inlet nozzle may, for example, have at least one corresponding thread. The inlet nozzle may also, for example, have at least one distributor to supply multiple consumers, for example, via one or more valves.

[0054] The mobile cleaning unit may further include at least one wastewater connection mounted on the vehicle, wherein the wastewater connection is connected to at least one drain of the cleaning device. The wastewater connection may, for example, be designed to be connectable to at least one external drain.

[0055] The mobile cleaning unit may also include at least one sink mounted on the cart. In particular, this sink may be integrated into a work surface. The sink and / or the mobile cleaning unit may also include at least one hand shower mounted on the cart, in particular a pull-out hand shower.

[0056] The mobile cleaning unit can be designed in such a way that it can be stacked and / or arranged in a standardized manner. This can be advantageous, for example, for transport in a trolley and / or a transport container. Accordingly, the trolley can, for instance, have a base dimension corresponding to a standardized transport pallet, specifically a base dimension selected from: 800 mm × 600 mm; 1200 mm × 800 mm; 1200 mm × 1000 mm; 1200 mm × 900 mm; 1140 mm × 1140 mm. Multiples of a base dimension or other standard dimensions are also possible in principle.

[0057] The application of the cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus can be carried out, in particular, by direct application, whereby cleaning fluid exiting the fluid system directly impacts the breathing apparatus. The application method can be, in particular, spraying, dripping, irradiation, or a combination thereof.

[0058] As explained above, the pressure connection can, in particular, include a connecting element. In addition to a pressure connection, the connecting element can also be configured to establish at least one additional mechanical connection with the breathing apparatus. The connecting element can, in particular, be selected from the group consisting of a positive-locking connecting element and a friction-locking connecting element. The pressure connection can, in particular, have a plurality of different adapters for connection to different types of gas-carrying elements.

[0059] The bracket can be, in particular, a removable bracket. The pressure connection can be, in particular, at least partially integrated into the bracket. This integration can be rigid or flexible. For example, the pressure connection can be rigidly attached to the bracket or connected to the bracket via a hose. The hose can, for example, have a free nozzle located within the bracket, allowing a demand valve to be connected to a coupling loosely located within the bracket, such as a basket. The bracket can, in particular, have a detachable compressed gas connection to the rest of the cleaning device.For example, at least one hose connection may be provided to connect the holder to at least one pressure port and / or to another element of the pressurization device, which is, for example, permanently integrated inside the cleaning chamber. For example, the holder may include a basket that can be removed from the cleaning chamber, with the pressure port integrated into the holder and connected to other components of the pressurization device, which are permanently integrated into the cleaning chamber, via at least one pressurized gas hose. When the basket is inserted into the cleaning chamber, the connection is closed, and conversely, when the basket is removed from the cleaning chamber, the connection is opened. For example, the pressurized gas hose may have one or more quick-release couplings.Other types of pressure connection between the pressure port and other components of the pressurization device are also possible.

[0060] As explained above, the cleaning device can, in particular, comprise a single-chamber dishwasher or be designed wholly or partially as a single-chamber dishwasher. The single-chamber dishwasher can, in particular, have at least one fluid tank separate from the cleaning chamber, especially a rinse tank, wherein at least one cleaning fluid can be conditioned, in particular heated, independently of any cleaning process taking place in the cleaning device.

[0061] The cleaning device can be configured, in particular, to execute a cleaning program with at least two different program steps. Accordingly, the cleaning device can be designed, in particular, wholly or partially, as an automated program.

[0062] The cleaning device can be advantageously further developed in various ways. For example, as described above, the pressure connection can include at least one positive-locking and / or force-locking connecting element to establish an additional mechanical connection with the breathing apparatus. This can be, in particular, a quick-release coupling system and / or a threaded connection. Alternatively or additionally, other mechanical connecting elements can also be used.

[0063] As described above, the cleaning fluid can, in particular, comprise at least one aqueous cleaning fluid, i.e., water or water with the addition of one or more additives, which may be in dissolved form, in emulsion form, or in suspension form. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning fluid can also comprise at least one cleaning solution. A cleaning solution is generally understood to be a solution of at least one surfactant in at least one solvent, for example, also water. This could, for instance, be a commercial cleaning solution that can also be used in dishwashers and / or washing machines. However, special cleaning solutions can also be developed and / or used.Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning fluid can also include a cleaning fluid with at least one rinse aid, i.e., an additive that facilitates drying of the breathing apparatus and / or causes liquid to bead up and roll off at least one surface of the breathing apparatus. Such rinse aids, which can also contain one or more surfactants, are generally known from the field of dishwashing technology. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning fluid can also include at least one rinse fluid, which can be, for example, water and / or water with one or more additives. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning fluid can also include a cleaning fluid with at least one disinfectant, whereby a disinfectant can be understood to be any substance that has a germicidal effect.Such disinfectants are also generally known from the prior art. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning fluid can also comprise demineralized water. As explained in more detail below, the demineralized water can, for example, be provided in a suitable demineralization device of the cleaning device, such as an ion exchanger. Alternatively or additionally, the demineralization device can also comprise, for example, a reverse osmosis unit. Again, alternatively or additionally, the cleaning fluid can also comprise a heated cleaning fluid. Such heated cleaning fluids are particularly suitable for rinsing, whereby heated cleaning fluids are generally understood to be cleaning fluids that have a temperature of at least 25 °C. Temperatures of 30 °C to 70 °C and especially 60 °C are particularly preferred.These temperatures have proven particularly suitable for cleaning flexible elastomer materials, such as those commonly used in respiratory devices.

[0064] As described above, for the purposes of the present invention, commercially available washing machines and / or dishwashers can be modified, for example, commercial washing machines and / or commercial dishwashers. This modification can be carried out by equipping the washing machines or dishwashers with a pressurization device according to the features described above. The cleaning device can, for example, be designed as a front-loading dishwasher or a hood-type dishwasher. A front-loading dishwasher is understood to be a dishwasher with a cleaning chamber that can be opened by a user positioned in front of the dishwasher via a flap and / or a slider.A hood-type dishwasher is defined as a dishwasher whose cleaning chamber includes a hinged and / or retractable hood that can be separated from other components of the cleaning chamber, such as a base. Such hood-type dishwashers are generally known from the field of commercial dishwashing technology. The cleaning chamber can be designed to be fixed in place. The cleaning chamber can also be designed to be lockable during the cleaning process, particularly by providing an automatic locking mechanism that is preferably triggered during a program and can be automatically released afterward. Due to their compact size, front-loading dishwashers are particularly suitable for the proposed mobile cleaning unit.

[0065] In a further aspect, the use of the proposed mobile cleaning unit in one or more of the described configurations for cleaning at least one breathing apparatus is suggested. The breathing apparatus may, in particular, be selected from the group consisting of: a regulator for divers; a diving mask; a regulator for rescue workers, especially firefighters; a breathing mask for rescue workers; a self-contained breathing apparatus; a regulator for police; a regulator for armed forces; a breathing mask for police; a breathing mask for armed forces; a regulator for medical purposes; a breathing mask for medical purposes.

[0066] In a further aspect, a method for cleaning a breathing apparatus is proposed, for example, one or more of the aforementioned breathing apparatuses. The method comprises the use of the proposed mobile cleaning unit in one or more of the described embodiments. Preferably, the breathing apparatus is exposed to the at least one cleaning fluid, and during this exposure, at least one gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus is preferably exposed to the compressed gas.

[0067] The proposed mobile cleaning unit and method offer numerous advantages over known devices and methods of this type. In particular, the mobile cleaning unit can be designed like a mobile dishwashing unit. The cleaning device can, for example, be mounted on a cart, especially a roll container and / or a handcart, especially a handcart with a deadman's brake, preferably together with other functional assemblies.In addition to the pressurized gas source, these further functional assemblies can include, for example, one or more of the following: a fresh water connection; a wastewater connection; a water treatment system for supplying the dishwasher, for example, an ion exchanger and / or a reverse osmosis system; a handwashing sink, preferably with a pull-out spray head; a cabinet for storing cleaning chemicals and other accessories; a worktop; a generator, for example, with a voltage of 400 V; a wastewater lifting station; a fresh water tank; a wastewater tank; an air compressor for blowing out and / or pre-drying the cleaned items. Combinations of the aforementioned assemblies and / or other components described above can also be easily integrated.

[0068] The scope of the mobile cleaning unit can be freely designed and combined according to requirements. The mobile cleaning unit can be designed to fit existing systems, for example in fire engines, and can be used interchangeably with other mobile equipment carriers or equipment items, such as in equipment trucks or roll-off containers of fire engines.

[0069] The entire mobile cleaning unit can be connected to on-site utilities, for example to create temporary solutions, or operated completely autonomously, depending on the configuration. In this way, a temporary breathing apparatus workshop with automated reprocessing of soiled personal protective equipment can be set up directly at the deployment site using the mobile cleaning unit.

[0070] A suitable mobile cleaning unit can be offered in a standardized form, requiring minimal space. This ensures independence from permanent building structures. Automated reprocessing of personal protective equipment components is thus possible on-site, eliminating the need for additional transport of the soiled items.

[0071] The mobile cleaning unit is particularly advantageous for extended operations requiring significant personnel resources and / or for deployments in remote areas, such as large-scale incidents in rural regions or forest fires. It can also be used effectively in military operations or firefighting operations in inaccessible areas. The mobile cleaning unit can be equipped with extensive additional equipment and can optionally be configured to operate completely autonomously without external energy or utilities such as water. Brief description of the characters

[0072] Further details and features will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments, particularly in conjunction with the dependent claims. The respective features can be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments. The exemplary embodiments are shown schematically in the figures. Identical reference numerals in the individual figures denote identical or functionally equivalent elements, or elements that correspond to one another with respect to their functions.

[0073] Specifically, we show: Figure 1 shows a sectional view of a cleaning device for use in a mobile cleaning unit; Figure 2 shows a detailed view of an equipped holder of the cleaning device according to Figure 1 Figures 3A and 3Bone trolley for use in the mobile cleaning unit in a rear view ( Fig. 3A ) and a side view ( Fig. 3B); Figure 3C a roll-off container for fire brigade use, with a plurality of vehicles according to the Figures 3A and 3B ; and Figure 4 shows an embodiment of a mobile cleaning unit for cleaning breathing apparatus. Description of the exemplary implementations

[0074] In the Figures 1-3 Various components of an exemplary embodiment of a mobile cleaning unit 410 are shown, which are in Figure 4 in one embodiment shown in its entirety in a side view. The following are shown. Figure 1 and 2 a cleaning device 110. The Figures 3A and 3B show a carriage 310 in the form of a trolley 312 in a rear view ( Figure 3A ) and a side view ( Figure 3B). Figure 3C shows a majority of wagon 310 according to the Figures 3A and 3B in a roll-off container 314 for fire brigade use, in perspective view. Figure 4Finally, the mobile cleaning unit 410, equipped with its various components, is shown in a side view. These figures will be explained together below.

[0075] The mobile cleaning unit 410, which is located in Figure 4 The side view shown includes one in the Figures 3A and 3B The illustrated cart 310, which in this exemplary embodiment is designed as a roll-off cart 312 or comprises such a roll-off cart 312. For example, it can be a standardized roll container which, based on its basic dimensions and preferably also on other dimensions, is used in a fire engine, a utility vehicle, or, as in Figure 3CThe figure shows a roll-off container 314 for fire service operations. The cart 310 comprises at least one support surface 316, for example, as the surface of a base plate 318, and a chassis 320. Furthermore, the cart 310 can have at least one handle 324 and preferably at least one brake 326, for example, a dead man's brake. As a possible embodiment of such a cart 310, reference can be made, for example, to the universal roll containers of Günzburger Steigtechnik GmbH, 89312 Günzburg, Germany. However, other carts, roll containers, or roll containers can also be used in principle. In particular, fully or partially enclosed roll containers can also be used.

[0076] As will be explained in more detail below, various elements of the mobile cleaning unit 410 are permanently or detachably mounted on the carriage 310. In particular, the mobile cleaning unit 110 comprises, as shown in Figure 4Identifiable, at least one cleaning device 110 and at least one pressurized gas source 416. Further details are described below.

[0077] In Figure 1 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the cleaning device 110, which is designed for cleaning one or more breathing apparatus 112 and which can be used in the mobile cleaning unit 410, for example according to Figure 110. Figure 4 The cleaning device 110 is in Figure 1shown schematically in a sectional view. The cleaning device 110 can, for example, be configured as a dishwasher 114, whereby commercial dishwashers, such as undercounter dishwashers from Meiko Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG, 77652 Offenburg, can be retrofitted accordingly. The cleaning device 110 comprises a cleaning chamber 116, for example a washing chamber 118. This cleaning chamber 116 can be opened, for example, by a door 120, such as a swing door, a sliding door, or a flap, and / or by another opening device. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning chamber 116 can also be designed as a cleaning chamber covered by a hood. In the Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the dishwasher 114 is designed, for example, as a front-loading dishwasher. However, other configurations are also possible.

[0078] The cleaning device 110 has at least one fluid unit 122 for supplying the breathing apparatus 112 contained in the cleaning chamber 116 with one or more cleaning fluids. For example, the fluid unit 122 can comprise one or more nozzles 124, which may be arranged, for example, above and / or below the breathing apparatus 112 and / or at other locations within the cleaning chamber 116, for example, on one or more side walls. For example, the fluid unit 122 can be configured as in the illustrated embodiment according to Figure 1The fluid system 122 comprises a washing nozzle system 126, also referred to as a rinsing nozzle system, for example, with one or more nozzle arms with multiple nozzles 124, preferably rotatably and / or pivotably mounted below and / or above the breathing apparatus 112. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid system 122 can also comprise a rinsing nozzle system 128, for example, with one or more rinsing nozzle arms, which are preferably again rotatably and / or pivotably mounted, and which, for example, can again be arranged above and / or below the breathing apparatus 112. However, other arrangements and / or configurations are also possible in principle.

[0079] The fluid system 122 can further comprise one or more additional elements, such as one or more pipelines, one or more pumps, and / or one or more tanks. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, at least one washing line system 130 is provided for supplying the washing nozzle system 126 with cleaning fluid 132, for example, a cleaning solution, from one or more washing tanks 134. For example, a washing tank 134 can be provided in the bottom region of the cleaning chamber 116 and / or connected to the cleaning chamber 116 in another way, so that the cleaning fluid 132 can flow and / or drip back into the washing tank 134 after being applied to the breathing apparatus 112. The fluid system 122 can also include one or more circulating pumps 136 for supplying the washing nozzle system 126 with the cleaning fluid 132 from the washing tank 134.Furthermore, one or more heating elements 138 may be provided to heat the cleaning fluid 132 of the wash tank 134 and / or other tanks, for example in the form of a wash tank heater inside the wash tank 134. To monitor the heating of the cleaning fluid 132, one or more temperature sensors 140 may be provided, for example inside the wash tank 134. Furthermore, one or more level sensors 142 may be provided, for example a level sensor 142 as a level sensor of the wash tank 134.

[0080] The wash tank 134 can, for example, be emptied into a drain 148 via a drain line 144 and optionally via a drain pump 146. The drain 148 can, for example, be connected to a wastewater tank 412 of the mobile cleaning unit 410, which is located, for example, in Figure 4The diagram shows the unit and is, for example, mounted on vehicle 310. Alternatively or additionally, the wastewater can also be discharged into a building-provided drain. Both options can be used in combination, including the option of switching between them, for example, when a wastewater tank has reached its capacity limit. Furthermore, as described above, the mobile cleaning unit 410 can have a wastewater pumping station, which is not shown here, for example, to compensate for differences in wastewater levels. For example, reference can be made to pumping stations from SFA Sanibroy GmbH in 63128 Dietzenbach, Germany.

[0081] Optionally, one or more can also be included in Figure 1Inlets (not shown) are provided for the washing tank 134 to fill it with cleaning fluid 132. These can optionally be supplied on-site and / or connected to a fresh water tank 414, which is located, for example, in Figure 4 as shown. Alternatively or additionally, filling can also be carried out via the rinse nozzle system 128, which is described in more detail below, for example via a fresh water inlet 171. The fresh water inlet 171 can, for example, be connected to a fresh water tank 414 of the mobile cleaning unit 410, optionally via the reverse osmosis unit 170, which is described in more detail below.

[0082] Furthermore, a dosing system 150 may be provided, for example, at least one dosing system for introducing one or more additives into the cleaning fluid 132 of the wash tank 134, such as a cleaner concentrate, a rinse aid, a disinfectant, or combinations of the aforementioned and / or other additives. Storage containers for the dosing system 150 may, for example, also be located on the wagon 310.

[0083] The cleaning fluid 132 can be applied to the breathing apparatus 112, particularly in a recirculating system, by spraying and / or splashing the cleaning fluid 132 from the wash tank 134 onto the breathing apparatus 112 via the rinsing nozzle system or wash nozzle system 126, and then draining or dripping back into the wash tank 134 for reuse. Optionally, one or more filters, such as coarse filters and / or fine filters, can be provided to at least partially purify the cleaning fluid 132 from the wash tank 134.

[0084] The rinse nozzle system 128 can, for example, be supplied with a further cleaning fluid 154, such as a rinse solution, via at least one rinse line system 152. In this case, Figure 1An optional embodiment is shown in which the cleaning device 110 is designed as a dual-circuit system. Accordingly, the second cleaning fluid 154 is supplied, for example, from a separate tank, which in the illustrated embodiment is designed as a rinse tank 156, separate from the wash tank 134. For example, this rinse tank 156 can be designed as a boiler and can, for example, include a rinse tank heater 158. Alternatively or additionally to a rinse tank heater 158, other types of heating elements can also be provided for the second cleaning fluid 154, for example, one or more flow heaters. The same applies to the first cleaning fluid 132 in the wash tank 134.The rinse tank 156 can again be equipped with one or more temperature sensors 160 and / or one or more level sensors 162, and can be supplied with cleaning fluid 154, for example fresh water, via one or more inlets 164. The at least one inlet 164 can have one or more valves 166. For example, the inlet 164 can be connected or connectable to a building's fresh water supply via the fresh water inlet 171, or, optionally, as described above, it can be connected directly or indirectly to the fresh water tank 414. A combination of the aforementioned options, including the option of switching between the two, is also possible.Alternatively or additionally, at least one reverse osmosis unit 170 can be provided on-site as part of the cleaning device 110 or as part of the mobile cleaning unit 410, via which the rinse tank 156 and / or one or more other tanks of the cleaning device 110 can be supplied with a permeate, for example, purified water. Furthermore, at least one dosing system 168 can be provided, via which one or more additives can be mixed with the cleaning fluid 154 in the rinse tank 156, for example, one or more rinse aid concentrates.

[0085] The purge nozzle system 128 can preferably be operated in single-use mode, i.e., not in recirculation mode, so that the purge fluid from the purge tank 154 only comes into contact with the breathing apparatus 112 once. For this purpose, the fluid system 122 can, for example, comprise one or more pressure booster pumps 172.

[0086] The cleaning of the breathing apparatus 112 in the cleaning device 110 according to Figure 1This can be achieved, for example, by first placing one or more breathing apparatus 112 into the cleaning chamber 116 using a suitable holder 174, which will be explained in more detail below. The door 120 can then be closed, and a cleaning program can preferably be started, which can be controlled, for example, by a control unit 176, such as a central machine control or a decentralized control unit. For example, the wash tank 136 can first be filled with cleaning fluid 132 and / or a precursor to this cleaning fluid 132, such as fresh water, in particular demineralized fresh water, using the rinse nozzle system 128. This can then be conditioned within the wash tank 134, for example, by adding one or more additives via the dosing system 150 and / or by heating using the heating element 138.Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning fluid 132 may also remain in the wash tank 134 after a rinsing program of a previous cleaning cycle, in order to be used as cleaning fluid 132 and / or as a component thereof in a subsequent cleaning cycle, since rinse fluid usually has a comparatively high degree of purity even after exposure to the breathing apparatus 112.

[0087] The breathing apparatus 112 can then be cleaned, preferably in recirculation mode, in one or more washing program steps, in particular by washing. This allows adhering contaminants to be removed from the breathing apparatus 112, and / or allows for the hygienization of the breathing apparatus 112.

[0088] Following at least one washing program step, one or more rinsing steps can preferably be carried out. For this purpose, the wash tank 134 can optionally be emptied via the drain line 144 and the drain pump 146. During at least one washing program step, the rinsing tank 156 can already be filled with the rinsing fluid 154, for example, fresh water with or without additives, such as demineralized fresh water. Subsequently, one or more additives can be mixed in via the dosing system 150 and / or the cleaning fluid 154 can be heated as a rinsing fluid using the rinsing tank heater 158 and / or a flow heater. The rinsing fluid 154, thus preconditioned, can then be applied to the breathing apparatus 112 via the rinsing nozzle system 128 in at least one rinsing step, so that it is rinsed and / or rinsed clean.After at least one rinsing step, at least one drying step can optionally follow. This drying step can be passive, simply by waiting, or it can be actively assisted, for example, by at least one drying fan and / or another type of drying device of the cleaning unit 110, such as an infrared radiator system and / or a microwave radiation system. Various configurations are conceivable. Following the optional drying step, the door 120, which is preferably locked until then, can be automatically released and / or opened. The entire program sequence can be controlled, for example, by the control unit 176, whereby several program sequences can also be selected.

[0089] It is pointed out that the in Figure 1The illustrated embodiment of the cleaning device 110 represents only one of several different embodiments. Thus, individual, several, or even all of the elements described above can also be implemented in a different configuration. The rinsing chamber 118 can be, alternatively or additionally to the rigid, stationary design according to Figure 1 It can also be designed to be swiveling and / or rotatable. Furthermore, the fluid circuit shown can be significantly modified.

[0090] As shown above, the at least one breathing apparatus 112 is preferably held within the cleaning device 110 by means of at least one holder 174. Such a holder 174 is shown in an enlarged view in Figure 2 shown as an example in a sectional view. The bracket 174 can, for example, be made of plastic and / or metal and can, for example, be as shown in Figure 2The bracket 174 can be designed as a basket. It can include one or more support surfaces 178 and / or one or more retaining elements 180, for example, one or more baskets 182 and / or one or more connecting elements 184 for a mechanical connection to the breathing apparatus 112 and / or its fixation. Accordingly, the bracket 174 can, for example, be designed to align and / or fix one or more components of the breathing apparatus 112 relative to one or more of the nozzles 124. For example, the breathing apparatus 112 can include at least one breathing mask 186, the alignment of which by the support surface 178 can be such that a viewing window 188 always faces the upper nozzle system, whereas the inside of the breathing mask 186 faces downwards, so that cleaning fluid 132, 154 entering via the lower nozzles can drain away again after exposure without leaving any residue inside the breathing mask 186.The basket 182 can, for example, be designed to hold accessories 190, which may also be part of the breathing apparatus 112, for instance, to maintain an association with other components of the breathing apparatus 112 during the cleaning process. In this way, it can be ensured, for example, that different types of breathing apparatus 112 can be cleaned without mixing incompatible accessories. Furthermore, the breathing apparatus 112 may, for example, include one or more demand valves 192 and / or one or more stages of such demand valves 192. Such demand valves 192 typically include one or more valves 194 inside, for example, diaphragm and / or rocker valves, by which one or more gas-carrying elements 196 are separated from an external space.For example, gas-carrying elements 196 can be provided inside one or more gas lines 198 of the lung regulator 192, whereby the inner walls of the gas line 198 must generally not come into contact with cleaning fluid 132, 154. The gas line 198 can, for example, terminate in one or more connections 200, such as one or more quick-release couplings.

[0091] To prevent the at least one gas-carrying element 196 of the breathing apparatus 112, for example, the gas line 198 of the demand valve 192, from coming into contact with cleaning fluid 132, 154, it is provided that this gas-carrying element 196 is pressurized with compressed gas, for example, during one or more program steps in which the breathing apparatus 112 is pressurized with the cleaning fluid 132, 154. For this purpose, the cleaning device 110, in this or other embodiments, has at least one pressurization device 202. This pressurization device 202 is configured to pressurize the at least one gas-carrying element 196 with compressed gas. For this purpose, the pressurization device 202 has at least one pressure connection 204, which can be connected to the gas-carrying element 196 in such a way that such gas pressure can be applied.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, this pressure connection 204 is exemplary configured as part of the holder 174. Alternatively or additionally, the pressure connection 204 can also be provided at other locations on the cleaning device 110, preferably inside the cleaning chamber 116. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the pressure connection 204 can be configured as a connection 206 for the demand valve 192. In general, in this or other embodiments, the pressure connection 204 can be configured such that it can be connected to several types of gas-carrying elements 196, for example, to different types and / or different kinds of gas-carrying elements 196.For example, the pressure connection 204 can comprise a plurality of adapters 205 and / or the cleaning device 110 can be supplied with an adapter set containing several adapters 205 of different pressure connections 204, thus providing a high degree of flexibility with regard to the type of gas-carrying elements 196. For example, the connection 206 for the demand valve 192 can comprise a quick-release coupling that corresponds to the connection 200 of the gas line 198 and is preferably pressure-tight. In this or other cases, the pressure connection 204 can therefore also comprise at least one connecting element 208 and / or be designed as a connecting element 208 for establishing a mechanical connection with the breathing apparatus 112 and, in particular, the gas-carrying element 196.

[0093] To supply the pressure connection 204 and the gas-carrying element 196 with compressed gas, for example compressed air, the cleaning device 110 and / or the mobile cleaning unit 410 in the illustrated embodiment or in other embodiments can comprise at least one internal and / or at least one external compressed gas source 416, as shown in Figure 4 shown. For example, a pressurized gas source 416 can be arranged on the carriage 310. This pressurized gas source 416 can, for example, comprise at least one compressor and / or at least one pressurized gas cylinder. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning device 110, as shown in Figure 1The unit shown may also be equipped with at least one external pressure connection 210 in order to be connected via this external pressure connection 210 to at least one external compressed gas source, for example, an external compressed gas cylinder and / or an external compressed gas line, which may be located, for example, on the building side or on a utility vehicle or other fire service vehicle. The external pressure connection 210 and / or the internal compressed gas source 416 may, for example, be connected to the pressure connection 204 via at least one compressed gas line 212. If the pressure connection 204 is connected to a bracket 174, as shown in the Figure 1 and 2As shown, the pressurized gas line 212 can, for example, be detachably connected to the bracket 174 and / or the pressure port 204 to optionally allow the bracket 174 to be reversibly removed from the cleaning device 110. For this purpose, one or more couplings 214 can be provided, which in turn can be connected to the pressure port 204 via one or more pressurized gas lines 216. A distribution system can also be provided inside or outside the bracket 174, for example, to supply pressurized gas to multiple pressure ports 204 via a single pressurized gas line 212. Furthermore, one or more adapters 205 can be provided, for example, to allow adaptation to multiple different types of gas-carrying elements 196 and / or breathing apparatus 112.The pressurization device 202 can be designed to be separable at one or more points, for example, to allow the holder 174 to be removed from the cleaning chamber 116 and, for example, fitted with components. For this purpose, the coupling 214 can, for example, be designed to be detachable. Furthermore, in this or other embodiments of the cleaning device 110, the pressurization device 202 can optionally include one or more valves 218, for example, controllable valves, for example (as in ). Figure 1(shown) in the pressurized gas line 212 and / or in or upstream of the external pressure connection 210. These valves 218 can, for example, be controlled by the control unit 176. Thus, for example, the pressurization of the at least one gas-carrying element 196 by means of the pressurization device 202 can be controlled in this or other ways in this or other embodiments of the invention, for example, by selectively applying the pressurization before the breathing apparatus 112 is supplied with cleaning fluid 132, 154. Alternatively or additionally, the pressurization can also be carried out only in one or more program steps, for example, only in one or more program steps during the supply of cleaning fluid 132, 154 to the breathing apparatus 112.Optionally, the application of compressed gas, such as compressed air, can be switched off during other program steps and / or carried out in a different form, for example with a changed pressure. In this way, the pressurization can be adapted to the different program steps.

[0094] The in Figure 4 The mobile cleaning unit 410 shown can include additional elements besides those mentioned above. In particular, the mobile cleaning unit can have at least one compressed gas gun 418 connected to the compressed gas source 416. Furthermore, for example, a cabinet element 420 and / or a worktop 422 can be provided. In addition, for example, a sink 424 can be provided on the trolley 310, preferably with at least one hand shower 426, which can, for example, be designed as a pull-out hand shower.

[0095] The cabinet element 420 can, for example, store cleaning agents 428 and / or other utensils. Furthermore, one or more of the aforementioned elements of the mobile cleaning unit 410 can be wholly or partially integrated into the cabinet element 420. The mobile cleaning unit 410 can also include at least one power source, for example, at least one generator 430. Reference symbol list

[0096] 110 Cleaning device 112 Breathing apparatus 114 Dishwasher 116 Cleaning chamber 118 Rinse chamber 120 Door 122 Fluid device 124 Nozzles 126 Wash nozzle system 128 Rinse nozzle system 130 Wash line system 132 Cleaning fluid, Wash fluid 134 Wash tank 136 Circulation pump 138 Heating element 140 Temperature sensor 142 Level sensor 144 Drain line 146 Drain pump 148 Drain 150 Dosing system 152 Rinse line system 154 Cleaning fluidRinse fluid 156 Rinse tank 158 Rinse tank heater 160 Temperature sensor 162 Level sensor 164 Inlet 166 Valve 168 Dosing system 170 Reverse osmosis unit 171 Fresh water inlet 172 Pressure booster pump 174 Bracket 176 Control unit 178 Support surface 180 Mounting element 182 Basket 184 Connecting element 186 Breathing mask 188 Viewing lens 190 Accessories 192 Demand valve 194 Valve 196 Gas-carrying element 198 Gas line 200 Connection 202 Pressurization device 204 Pressure connection 205 Adapter 206 Connection for demand valve 208 Connecting element 209 Integrated pressurized gas source 210 External pressure connection 212 Pressurized gas line 214 Coupling 216 Compressed gas line 218 Valves 310 Cart 312 Trolley 314 Roll-off container 316 Support surface 318 Base plate 320 Chassis 322 Push frame 324 Handle 326 Brake 410 Mobile cleaning unit 412 Wastewater tank 414 Fresh water tank 416 Compressed gas source 418 Compressed gas gun 420 Cabinet element 422 Worktop 424 Sink 426 Hand shower 428 Cleaning agent 430 Generator

Claims

1. Mobile cleaning unit (410) for cleaning breathing apparatus (112), comprising: - at least one trolley (310) with at least one support surface (316) and with at least one running gear (320); - at least one pressurized-gas source (416) mounted on the trolley (310); and - at least one cleaning appliance (110) which is mounted on the trolley (310) and which serves for the cleaning of the breathing apparatus (112), wherein the cleaning appliance (110) comprises: o at least one cleaning chamber (116) for accommodating at least one breathing apparatus (112), o at least one fluid device (122) for applying at least one cleaning liquid to the breathing apparatus (112), wherein the fluid device (122) has at least one nozzle (124), characterized in that the cleaning appliance comprises: o at least one holder (174) which can be introduced into the cleaning chamber (116) and which serves for accommodating the breathing apparatus (112), wherein the holder (174) is configured to orient the breathing apparatus (112) relative to the fluid device (122), o at least one pressure-applying appliance (202) which is connectable to the pressurized-gas source (416) and which has at least one pressure connector (204), wherein the pressure connector (204) is connectable to at least one gas-conducting element (196) of the breathing apparatus (112), wherein the pressure-applying appliance (202) is configured to charge the gas-conducting element with pressurized gas while the cleaning fluid is applied to the breathing apparatus - and in that the trolley (310) has at least one push frame (322) with at least one handle (324), wherein the handle (324) is equipped with a brake (326).

2. Mobile cleaning unit (410) according to the preceding claim, wherein the mobile cleaning unit (410) furthermore has at least one pressurized-gas pistol (418) which is connectable to the pressurized-gas source (416) and which serves for blow-drying the breathing apparatus (112).

3. Mobile cleaning unit (410) according to either of the preceding claims, furthermore comprising at least one element selected from the following group: - at least one waste water tank (412) mounted on the trolley (310), wherein the waste water tank (412) is connectable to at least one drain (148) of the cleaning appliance (110); - at least one waste water treatment system mounted on the trolley (310), wherein the waste water treatment system is connected to at least one drain (148) of the cleaning appliance (110); - at least one waste water lifting system mounted on the trolley (310); - at least one fresh water tank (414) mounted on the trolley (310), wherein the fresh water tank (414) is connectable to at least one feed (171) of the cleaning appliance (110); - at least one fresh water treatment system which is mounted on the trolley (310) and which serves for the treatment of fresh water, wherein the fresh water treatment system is connectable to at least one feed (171) of the cleaning appliance (110).

4. Mobile cleaning unit (410) according to any of the preceding claims, furthermore comprising at least one cabinet element (420) which is mounted on the trolley (310) and which serves for accommodating cleaning utensils.

5. Mobile cleaning unit (410) according to any of the preceding claims, furthermore comprising at least one work surface (422) mounted on the trolley (310).

6. Mobile cleaning unit (410) according to any of the preceding claims, furthermore comprising at least one power unit (430) mounted on the trolley (310).

7. Mobile cleaning unit (410) according to any of the preceding claims, furthermore comprising at least one washbasin (424) mounted on the trolley (310).

8. Mobile cleaning unit (410) according to any of the preceding claims, furthermore comprising at least one hand shower (426) mounted on the trolley (310).

9. Mobile cleaning unit (410) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the trolley (310) has a basic dimension of a standardized transport pallet.

10. Mobile cleaning unit (410) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the application of the at least one cleaning liquid to the breathing apparatus (112) is performed in the form of a direct application, wherein cleaning fluid emerging from the fluid device (122) impinges directly on the breathing apparatus (112), wherein the application is selected from application in spray form, application in droplet form, application in jet form or a combination of the stated types of application.

11. Mobile cleaning unit (410) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pressure connector (204) has a multiplicity of different adapters (205) for connection to different types of gas-conducting elements (196) .

12. Mobile cleaning unit (410) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pressure connector (204) is at least partially integrated into the holder (174).

13. Method for cleaning a breathing apparatus (112), comprising the use of a mobile cleaning unit (410) according to any of the preceding claims relating to a mobile cleaning unit (410).