FLOOR CLEANING MACHINE AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A FLOOR CLEANING MACHINE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a floor cleaning machine comprising a floor head, at least one cleaning roller arranged on the floor head, a tank device arranged on the floor head, and at least one sweeping element assigned to the at least one cleaning roller.

[0002] The invention further relates to a method for operating a floor cleaning machine, in which a cleaning roller is arranged on a floor head and coarse dirt is fed to the rotating cleaning roller via a sweeping element.

[0003] WO 2018 / 099567 A1 discloses a cleaning device with a movable sliding element for dirty fluid.

[0004] US 2017 / 0071437 A1 discloses a cleaning robot.

[0005] WO 2008 / 135120 A1 discloses a mobile sweeper with a brush roller and sweeping edge.

[0006] US 2004 / 0181888 A1 discloses another cleaning device.

[0007] US 2003 / 0028982 A1 discloses a sweeping device.

[0008] EP 1 179 314 A1 discloses a sweeper with a sweeping roller.

[0009] US 4,701,969 discloses a sweeping device with a rotating brush.

[0010] Further sweeping devices are disclosed in CN 104939758 and CN 2899698.

[0011] US 2006 / 0150363 A1 discloses a floor cleaning machine.

[0012] CN 2516091 discloses a floor cleaning machine.

[0013] Surface cleaning machines are known from WO 2016 / 058901 A1, WO 2016 / 058856 A1, WO 2017 / 063663 A1, WO 2016 / 058879 A1, and WO 2016 / 058956 A1. A surface cleaning machine is also known from WO 2016 / 058907 A1. A floor cleaning machine according to the preamble of claim 1 is known, for example, from US-A-20030204923.

[0014] The invention is based on the object of providing a floor cleaning machine of the type mentioned above, which has an optimized coarse dirt collection function.

[0015] This object is achieved according to the invention in the floor cleaning machine mentioned at the outset in that the at least one sweeping element is arranged on the tank device and that at least one partial area of ​​the tank device, on which the at least one sweeping element is arranged, is movable relative to the floor head during a cleaning operation.

[0016] It has been shown that it is advantageous if the at least one sweeping element is positioned at a defined, fixed distance from the floor to be cleaned with respect to a sweeping edge. The movable arrangement of the tank device or the corresponding portion of the tank device relative to the floor head allows a corresponding fixed distance to be set, even if the diameter of the cleaning roller changes, for example, due to wear, or allows for adaptation to manufacturing tolerances regarding the cleaning roller or a bearing of the cleaning roller.

[0017] In particular, it is provided that the at least one sweeping element and the tank device are designed such that the at least one sweeping element is located at a defined, fixed distance from a floor to be cleaned during cleaning operation. It has been shown that if this fixed distance is too small, the at least one sweeping element can get caught or jammed, for example, on joints or transitions in the floor to be cleaned. If this distance is too large, dirt particles can be driven over and not picked up. By setting a defined, fixed distance, this results in optimized operation for the operator, whereby snagging or the like on uneven floor areas such as joints is reduced, and it also results in optimized cleaning results with regard to coarse dirt.

[0018] It has been shown that it is advantageous if the defined distance from the floor is greater than zero, in particular greater than 0.5 mm, in particular greater than 0.7 mm, and in particular approximately 1 mm. This defined distance is, in particular, a height difference between a sweeping edge of the at least one sweeping element and the floor. This effectively prevents snagging on uneven ground.

[0019] It has also proven advantageous if the defined distance is less than 1.5 mm, especially less than 1.3 mm, and in particular approximately 1 mm. This results in an optimized cleaning result with regard to coarse dirt. Corresponding particles can be collected by the at least one sweeping element, fed to the at least one cleaning roller, and removed by it.

[0020] In an advantageous embodiment, the at least one sweeping element is arranged on a floor or on a side wall of the tank device. This allows the at least one sweeping element to be easily positioned relative to the associated at least one cleaning roller.

[0021] It is particularly advantageous if at least one support element for a floor to be cleaned is arranged on the at least one sweeping element and / or the tank device, which support element holds the at least one sweeping element at a defined fixed distance from the floor to be cleaned.

[0022] The at least one support element contacts the floor to be cleaned. This results in an optimized cleaning result with ease of use for the user. Due to the mobility of the tank unit or the section of the tank unit where the at least one sweeping element is located, this defined distance is (and still is) fixed to the floor head, even with different diameters of the at least one cleaning roller.

[0023] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the at least one support element is designed as a rib on the at least one sweeping element and / or the tank device; a plurality of support elements are provided; between adjacent support elements there is a free area which does not contact the floor to be cleaned; the support elements are arranged in a row, wherein in particular a longitudinal direction of the row is at least approximately parallel to a rotational axis of the at least one cleaning roller; the at least one support element is designed as a sliding element or rolling element for the floor to be cleaned.

[0024] The support element(s) provide a fixed distance between the at least one sweeping element and the floor to be cleaned. This results in an optimized cleaning effect, even for coarse dirt particles, with the floor cleaning machine being easy to operate. The at least one support element glides or rolls over the floor to be cleaned. A plurality of support elements results in optimized positioning of the at least one sweeping element. The free space between adjacent support elements minimizes the frictional force with regard to the floor to be cleaned and minimizes the influence of the support elements on the floor to be cleaned. The arrangement in a row, which is located, for example, on the at least one sweeping element, results in a simple structural design.

[0025] It is particularly advantageous if the tank device or the portion of the tank device on which the at least one sweeping element is arranged is mounted in a floating manner on a tank device holder of the floor head. This always results in a defined, fixed distance between the sweeping edge of the at least one sweeping element and the floor to be cleaned, even with different diameters of the at least one cleaning roller (for example, due to wear or manufacturing tolerances).

[0026] In a structurally simple design, the tank device or the portion of the tank device on which the at least one sweeping element is arranged is suspended from the floor head. This makes it easy to achieve a corresponding floating support with mobility of the tank device or the portion of the tank device, in order to adjust a defined, fixed distance between the sweeping edge of the sweeping element and the floor.

[0027] It is particularly advantageous if the tank device or the part of the tank device on which the at least one sweeping element is arranged is mounted on the base head so as to be movable at least in a z-direction, with at least one of the following: the z-direction is oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to a rotational axis of the at least one cleaning roller; the z-direction is oriented transversely and in particular at least approximately perpendicularly to a support plane of the at least one cleaning roller for a floor to be cleaned; the z-direction is oriented at least approximately parallel to a removal direction of the tank device from the floor head.

[0028] This makes it easy to set a fixed distance between a sweeping edge of the sweeping element and a floor to be cleaned in a cleaning operation.

[0029] It is possible for the tank device or the portion of the tank device on which the at least one sweeping element is arranged to be mounted on the base head so that it can move in at least one further direction transverse to the z-direction. This results in further tolerance compensation.

[0030] In particular, it is provided that the at least one sweeping element is arranged and configured such that it feeds dirt particles to the at least one cleaning roller, wherein such dirt particles are entrained by the at least one cleaning roller as a result of rotation of the at least one cleaning roller. The at least one sweeping element effectively collects dirt particles and makes them "available" to the at least one cleaning roller, wherein the at least one cleaning roller then in turn conveys the dirt particles for their final delivery to the tank device.

[0031] In an advantageous embodiment, the tank device is designed as a tank device for dirty fluid. This is particularly adjacent to the at least one cleaning roller. Dirty fluid (including, if applicable, coarse dirt particles) can then be conveyed directly from the at least one cleaning roller into the tank device. In particular, this conveying can take place without the need for a fan.

[0032] In an advantageous embodiment, at least one supply channel for dirty fluid is provided from the at least one cleaning roller to a receiving space of the tank device. This allows for the effective separation of dirty fluid from the at least one cleaning roller via a short flow path and its coupling into the tank device.

[0033] Advantageously, a sealing device is provided, which is arranged on the tank device or the partial area of ​​the tank device on which the at least one sweeping element is located, and which seals the at least one supply channel from a coupling element for the at least one supply channel, regardless of the position of the tank device or the partial area of ​​the tank device relative to the floor head. This allows a fluid-tight supply of dirty fluid to the receiving space of the tank device to be achieved even with a movable tank device or movable partial area of ​​the tank device (in particular with mobility relative to the coupling element).

[0034] In particular, the coupling element is located on the base head, with in particular at least one of the following: the sealing device is movable and / or elastic; at least one scraper for the at least one cleaning roller is located on the coupling element; the tank device or the portion of the tank device on which the at least one sweeping element is arranged is movable relative to the coupling element during cleaning operation.

[0035] This allows for the removal of dirt fluid from the cleaning roller in an optimized manner. A fluid-tight supply channel for supplying dirt fluid to a receiving space of the tank unit can be easily created. The tank unit can be designed to be movable, ensuring a fixed distance between the sweeping edge and the floor to be cleaned, regardless of the diameter of the at least one cleaning roller.

[0036] In a structurally simple embodiment, the tank device or the portion of the tank device on which the at least one sweeping element is arranged is force-driven, in particular gravity-driven, or, for example, pressed against a floor to be cleaned in the direction of a support plane of the at least one cleaning roller by a spring device. The position of the tank device can thus easily adjust itself to maintain a fixed distance between a sweeping edge of the sweeping element and the floor to be cleaned, regardless of the diameter of the at least one cleaning roller.

[0037] In an advantageous embodiment, a stripping device is provided for stripping contaminating fluid from the at least one cleaning roller and coupling it into the tank device. The stripping device allows the at least one cleaning roller to be wrung out, so to speak, in order to remove contaminating fluid from it.

[0038] In a favorable embodiment, the at least one cleaning roller has a textile lining, such as a microfiber lining, and in particular, a scraper of a scraping device is immersed in the textile lining. This results in an optimized removal effect for the dirt fluid from the at least one cleaning roller.

[0039] In one embodiment, the at least one cleaning roller is constructed in two parts and features a central drive. This enables cleaning close to the edges. The at least one cleaning roller can be designed and positioned such that it extends to a lateral end of the floor head.

[0040] It is advantageous to provide a tank for cleaning fluid and a supply device for cleaning fluid from the tank to the at least one cleaning roller and / or to a floor to be cleaned. This results in an improved cleaning result due to a wiping effect. Cleaning fluid (which is particularly fresh water or fresh water with, for example, a surfactant cleaning agent additive) can be used to loosen dirt on a surface to be cleaned. The at least one cleaning roller acts mechanically on the dirt due to its rotation.

[0041] It is advantageous to provide a pin bar with pins for hair collection, with pins particularly attached to a textile trim or immersed in the textile trim of at least one cleaning roller. This allows hair to be picked up and collected from the floor to be cleaned, resulting in an optimized cleaning result.

[0042] It is advantageous if, relative to the normal rotational direction of the at least one cleaning roller during cleaning operation, the at least one sweeping element is arranged upstream of a scraper for the at least one cleaning roller. This allows dirt particles collected by the at least one sweeping element to be carried along by the at least one cleaning roller and thereby removed from the sweeping element. These then reach the scraper, where the dirt fluid (including the dirt particles) can be removed.

[0043] In one embodiment, a first cleaning roller and a second cleaning roller are provided, wherein the second cleaning roller is arranged at a distance from the first cleaning roller on the floor head, in particular with at least one of the following: A first axis of rotation of the first cleaning roller and a second axis of rotation of the second cleaning roller are oriented parallel to each other; in a normal operating mode of the floor cleaning machine, the first cleaning roller and the second cleaning roller rotate in opposite directions.

[0044] This results in optimized cleaning results. In particular, the tank unit is positioned between the first and second cleaning rollers, allowing it to be positioned "stably."

[0045] In particular, a first sweeping element is assigned to the first cleaning roller and / or a second sweeping element is assigned to the second cleaning roller. The first sweeping element and the second sweeping element are advantageously arranged on the same tank device.

[0046] In one embodiment, the floor cleaning machine is handheld and hand-guided. A holding device for an operator is provided, which is arranged on the floor head (and is in particular pivotably arranged), whereby the floor cleaning machine can be operated by a standing operator.

[0047] In an alternative embodiment, the floor cleaning machine is self-propelled and self-steering and is designed in particular as a wiping robot.

[0048] According to the invention, a method for operating a floor cleaning machine is provided, in which a cleaning roller is arranged on a floor head and coarse dirt is fed to the rotating cleaning roller via a sweeping element, wherein the sweeping element is arranged on a tank device and the tank device or a portion of the tank device on which the sweeping element is arranged is movable relative to the floor head in a cleaning operation, and in which a defined fixed distance of the sweeping element from the floor exists in the cleaning operation.

[0049] The method according to the invention has the advantages already explained in connection with the floor cleaning machine according to the invention.

[0050] In particular, the method according to the invention can be carried out on the floor cleaning machine according to the invention or the floor cleaning machine according to the invention can be operated with the method according to the invention.

[0051] It is particularly advantageous if the sweeping element is supported on the floor to be cleaned by at least one support element (during cleaning operation), with the at least one support element being arranged on the sweeping element and / or the tank device. This makes it easy to achieve a defined, fixed distance between the sweeping edge of the sweeping element and the floor to be cleaned. This defined distance remains constant even if the diameter of the at least one cleaning roller changes, for example, due to wear, or if manufacturing tolerances exist with the cleaning rollers.

[0052] The following description of preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the drawings, serves to further explain the invention. They show: Figure 1 shows a partial view of an embodiment of a floor cleaning machine according to the invention, wherein a holding (rod) device is shown in a partial view and, in the case of a two-part (front) cleaning roller, only a part is shown; Figure 2 shows a side view of the floor cleaning machine according to Figure 1 ; Figure 3 an enlarged view of area A according to Figure 2 at the moment the cleaning roller is placed on a floor to be cleaned; Figure 4 the same view as Figure 3 , wherein the cleaning roller is mounted longer and its diameter has been reduced; Figure 5 shows an embodiment of a tank device or a partial area of ​​a tank device in perspective view; Figure 6 shows a side view of the tank device or the partial area according to Figure 5 ; Figure 7 a sectional view along the line 7-7 according to Figure 6 ; Figure 8 a sectional view of the floor cleaning machine according to Figure 1in the area of ​​the front cleaning roller in a first position of a pin strip; Figure 9 the same view as Figure 8 in a second position of the pin strip; Figure 10 the same view as Figure 8 in a third position of the pin strip; Figure 11: a perspective view of an embodiment of a pin strip; Figure 12: a further perspective view of the pin strip according to Figure 11 ; Figure 13: another perspective view of the pin strip according to Figure 11 ; Figure 14 a side view of the pin strip according to Figure 11 ; Figure 15 a front view of the pin strip according to Figure 11 ; Figure 16 shows a further embodiment of a floor cleaning machine according to the invention (in the form of a self-propelled and self-steering floor cleaning machine); and Figure 17 shows a further embodiment of a hand-held and hand-guided floor cleaning machine.

[0053] An embodiment of a floor cleaning machine according to the invention, which is shown in the Figures 1 and 2 shown in a partial view and designated 10, is designed as a hand-held and hand-guided floor cleaning machine which can be operated by a standing operator.

[0054] The floor cleaning machine 10 comprises a floor head 12. At least one cleaning roller 14 is arranged on the floor head 12. In the illustrated embodiment, a first cleaning roller 14a and a second cleaning roller 14b are rotatably mounted on the floor head 12. The first cleaning roller 14a and the second cleaning roller 14b are spaced apart and oriented parallel to each other.

[0055] The first cleaning roller 14a is rotatable about a first rotational axis 16a. The second cleaning roller 14b is rotatable about a second rotational axis 16b. The first rotational axis 16a and the second rotational axis 16b are parallel to each other.

[0056] A first shaft 18 for the first cleaning roller 14a is arranged on the floor head 12. A second shaft (not visible in the drawings) is assigned to the second cleaning roller 14b. The first shaft 18 and the second shaft are each connected to a drive motor via a gear mechanism. This drive motor is located, in particular, on the floor head 12.

[0057] It is provided that at least for a normal operating mode of the floor cleaning machine 10, the first cleaning roller 14a and the second cleaning roller 14b are operated in opposite directions and in particular are operated at the same rotational speed.

[0058] For embodiments of the drive motor and the transmission device, reference is made to the unpublished German patent application No. 10 2019 109 946.3 of April 15, 2019, filed by the same applicant. Reference is made to this document in its entirety.

[0059] In one embodiment, the first cleaning roller 14a and the second cleaning roller 14b are each formed in two parts. The first shaft 18 comprises a first shaft portion 20 and a second shaft portion 22. The respective first part, such as the first part 24 of the first cleaning roller 14a, is seated on the first shaft portion 20. The second part of the first cleaning roller 14a is in the Figures 1 and 2 not shown. The second part 26 of the second cleaning roller 14b is visible there.

[0060] A center drive is provided for the rotational drive of the first cleaning roller 14a and the second cleaning roller 14b. A torque-effective coupling of the drive motor to the cleaning rollers 14a and 14b takes place in a central region between the outer ends. In particular, the first cleaning roller 14a and the second cleaning roller 14b extend to a side edge 28 of the floor head 12. This enables cleaning close to the edge.

[0061] In this context, reference is made to DE 10 2019 109 946 as an example.

[0062] In one embodiment, a cleaning roller 14 comprises a textile trim 30 which is arranged on a corresponding cylindrical holder 32.

[0063] In a cleaning operation of the floor cleaning machine 10, the floor head 12 is attached to a floor 34 to be cleaned ( Figure 2) is supported by the first cleaning roller 14a and the second cleaning roller 14b. The floor head 12 with its cleaning rollers 14a, 14b has a support plane 36 for the floor 34. The floor 34 to be cleaned is, in particular, a hard floor.

[0064] The floor cleaning machine 10 comprises a holding device 38. This is designed in particular as a holding rod device (in the Figures 1 and 2 only a part of it is shown). The holding device 38 is pivotally connected to the base head 12 via a pivot joint 40. A pivot axis 42 of the pivotability of the holding device 38 relative to the base head 12 is oriented in particular parallel to the first axis of rotation 16a and the second axis of rotation 16b.

[0065] There may also be further pivoting about a pivot axis 44, which is locked transversely to the pivot axis 42. The pivot axis 42 is in particular parallel to the support plane 36.

[0066] The floor cleaning machine 10 is hand-guided. The holding device 38 is designed such that an operator can guide the floor cleaning machine 10 over the floor 34 to be cleaned, with the floor head 12 supported on the floor 34 via the cleaning rollers 14a, 14b, and the operator standing on the floor 34 at a distance from the floor head 12 itself. The hand-guided floor cleaning machine 10 is particularly designed such that it can be operated by a standing operator. Reference is made in this context to DE 10 2019 109 946.

[0067] A tank device 46 is detachably arranged on the base head 12. The tank device 46 is detachably positioned on a tank device holder 48 of the base head 12. The tank device 46 is in a removal direction 50 ( Figure 1 ) can be detached downwards from the base head 12.

[0068] The removal direction 50 is oriented in particular perpendicular to the support plane 36.

[0069] The tank device 46 is positioned on the holder 48 between the first cleaning roller 14a and the second cleaning roller 14b. The tank device 46 serves to hold the dirt fluid that is "taken" from the cleaning rollers 14a, 14b and fed to the tank device 46.

[0070] In the embodiment shown, a single tank device 46 is provided for the first cleaning roller 14a and the second cleaning roller 14b.

[0071] In principle, it is also possible for the first cleaning roller 14a and the second cleaning roller 14b to each be assigned a separate tank, so that the tank device comprises two separate or connected parts.

[0072] The tank device 46 is arranged in particular so that dirt fluid from the cleaning rollers 14 can be coupled directly without a fan (without suction). This will be explained in more detail below.

[0073] The tank device 46 (see also the Figures 5 to 7 ) comprises a trough 52 with (at least) one receiving space 54 for dirty fluid. The trough 52 has a bottom 56, on which a circumferential wall 58 is arranged. The receiving space 54 is formed between the bottom 56 and the wall 58.

[0074] In one embodiment, the tub 52 has an at least approximately cuboid outer shape.

[0075] The tank device 46 comprises a lid 60. The lid 60 ( Figure 7 ) it may be a separate element from the base head 12. In particular, the tank device 46 with the cover 62 can then be removed from the tank device holder 48.

[0076] In an alternative embodiment, the lid of the tank device 46 on the base head 12 is formed, for example, by the tank device holder 48. In this embodiment, only the tray 52 is removable from the base head 12, and the corresponding lid remains on the base head 12.

[0077] During a cleaning operation of the floor cleaning machine 10, an underside of the floor 56 of the tank device 46 faces the floor 34 to be cleaned. A first side wall 62 of the wall 58 faces the first cleaning roller 14a, and a second side wall 64 opposite the first side wall 62 of the wall 58 faces the second cleaning roller 14b.

[0078] In one embodiment, the first side wall 62 and the second side wall 64 each have a recess 66, which serves to partially accommodate the gear mechanism via which the corresponding shaft (such as the first shaft 18) is torque-effectively coupled to the drive motor. The recess 66 is arranged centrally on the corresponding side wall 62, 64.

[0079] In one embodiment, fixing elements 68 are arranged on the trough 52. These are particularly dome-shaped. The fixing elements 68 serve to fix the tank device 46 via the trough 52 to the tank device holder 48 (see Figure 7 ) and in particular for a hanging fixation and thereby a floating mounting of the tub 52 on the floor head 12 (compare Figure 7 ). This is explained in more detail below.

[0080] The fixing elements 68 also serve, in particular, for centering and, if necessary, additionally fixing the cover 60 to the tub 52, provided such a separate cover 60 is provided. The cover 60 then has corresponding recesses 74 ( Figure 7 ), through which the fixing elements 68 are immersed.

[0081] A first sweeping element 70, which is assigned to the first cleaning roller 14a, is arranged on the floor head 12. Furthermore, a second sweeping element 72, which is assigned to the second cleaning roller 14b, is arranged on the floor head 12. The sweeping elements 70, 72 serve to collect dirt particles (especially coarse dirt particles) and feed them to the respective assigned cleaning roller 14a or 14b. These dirt particles can then be carried along by the cleaning roller 14a or 14b and coupled into the tank device 46.

[0082] The first sweeping element 70 and the second sweeping element 72 each have a sweeping edge 76. The sweeping edge 76 is adjacent to the textile trim 30 of the corresponding cleaning roller 14 and can be adjacent to it or immersed in it. In this context, reference is made to WO 2016 / 058956 A1, to which express reference is made.

[0083] The respective sweeping element 70, 72 with its sweeping edge 76 extends in particular at least approximately over the entire length of the associated cleaning roller 14. The sweeping edge 76 is aligned parallel to the corresponding axis of rotation 16a, 16b.

[0084] The first sweeping element 70 is arranged on the first side wall 62 at a distance from the bottom 56 of the tub 52. Similarly, the second sweeping element 72 is arranged on the second side wall 64 at a distance from the bottom 56.

[0085] It is possible that the respective sweeping element 70, 72 is made of a rigid material or has a certain inherent elasticity.

[0086] The sweeping elements 70, 72 have, in particular facing the respective cleaning roller 14a, 14b, a contour which is adapted to the cleaning roller 14a, 14b.

[0087] The first sweeping element 70 and the second sweeping element 72 are arranged on the tub 52 and on the respective side walls 62 and 64 (front and rear side walls).

[0088] It is also possible in principle for the first sweeping element 70 and / or the second sweeping element 72 to be arranged on the floor 56 with a corresponding design of the trough 52.

[0089] The first sweeping element 70 and the second sweeping element 72 are each firmly connected to the tub 52 so that they can be removed from the floor head 12 with the tub 52 and are moved towards the floor head 12 when the tub 52 is movable.

[0090] It is intended that during operation of the floor cleaning machine 10, the respective sweeping edge 76 of the first sweeping element 70 and the second sweeping element 72 is at a defined fixed distance D from the floor 34 to be cleaned (compare the Figures 3 and 4 ). This defined distance D is independent of the diameter of the associated cleaning roller 14 and thus independent, for example, of wear of the textile trim 30. It is also independent of manufacturing tolerances.

[0091] The distance D is specified for an optimized cleaning result with regard to the coarse dirt collection function of the sweeping element 70, 72. If the distance D is too small, the respective sweeping element 70 or 72 can become caught in joints, transitions, or the like on the floor 34 to be cleaned, resulting in difficulty in operation. If the distance D is too large, the coarse dirt collection function is impaired.

[0092] In particular, the distance D is greater than zero and preferably greater than 0.5 mm and preferably greater than 0.7 mm. Furthermore, it is particularly provided that the defined distance D is less than 1.5 mm and in particular less than 1.3 mm.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the distance D is approximately 1 mm.

[0094] In order to provide this defined distance D during cleaning operation of the floor cleaning machine 10, support elements 78 are provided ( Figures 3 , 4), with which the first sweeping element 70 or the second sweeping element 72 is supported on the floor 34 to be cleaned. The support elements 78 are designed as sliding elements which slide over the floor 34 during the cleaning operation of the floor cleaning machine 10.

[0095] The support elements 78 are designed such that the sweeping edge 76 is at a distance D from the floor 34.

[0096] In one embodiment, the support elements 78 are formed by spaced-apart ribs 80 arranged on the respective sweeping element 70, 72. These ribs 80 extend beyond the sweeping edge 76 toward the support plane 36 to achieve the support function on the floor 34.

[0097] Between adjacent support elements 78 or ribs 80 there is a free space over which the corresponding sweeping element 70, 72 does not contact the ground 34.

[0098] In particular, a row of support elements 78, particularly in the form of ribs, is provided on each sweeping element 70, 72. A corresponding row has a longitudinal direction parallel to the corresponding rotational axis 16a, 16b of the associated cleaning roller 14a or 14b.

[0099] Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for support elements 78 to be arranged on the tank device 46 and thereby on the bottom 56 of the trough 52.

[0100] During operation of the floor cleaning machine 10, the tank device 46 rests on the floor 34 to be cleaned via the support elements 78. To ensure that the distance D remains independent of the specific situation of the cleaning roller 14, the tank device 46 or a portion of the tank device (the trough 52) is mounted in a floating manner on the floor head 12 and thereby on the tank device holder 48. The tank device 46 has mobility in a z-direction 82 with respect to the portion where the sweeping elements 70, 72 are arranged. This z-direction 82 is transverse and, in particular, perpendicular to the support plane 36 of the cleaning rollers 14 on the floor 34.

[0101] Furthermore, the z-direction 82 is oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the rotation axes 16a, 16b.

[0102] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the z-direction 82 is oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the pivot axis 42.

[0103] Due to the mobility of the trough 52 with the sweeping elements 70, 72 in the z-direction 82 and the corresponding floating bearing on the floor head 11, the sweeping edge 76 is always at a fixed distance D from the floor 34, regardless of the specific diameter of the cleaning rollers 14. The mobility of the trough 52 in the z-direction 82 results in an automatic adjustment of this fixed distance D of the sweeping edge 76 from the floor 34 during cleaning operation. The support elements 78 ensure the "correct" positioning of the sweeping elements 70, 72 relative to the floor 34.

[0104] In one embodiment, the mobility of the tank device 46 or the partial area where the sweeping elements 70, 72 (of the trough 52) are located is achieved by a suspended mounting of the trough 52 on the base head 12. In particular, the mounting is such that, on the one hand, this fixed distance D can be adjusted, and, on the other hand, that when the base head 12 is lifted from the base 34, the trough 52 does not fall off.

[0105] For example, corresponding counter-fixing elements are assigned to the fixing elements 68 on the tank device holder 48, which enable mobility in the z-direction 82 and prevent falling off. In particular, a release force and / or a special release movement are then necessary to be able to remove the tank device 46 from the base head 12 in the removal direction 50.

[0106] In particular, the mobility in the z-direction 82 is then also adjusted in such a way that the compensation with respect to the fixed distance D is made possible without the tank device 46 sitting "too loosely" on the base head 12.

[0107] In one embodiment, for example, a web is located on each adjacent fixing element 68, which web is then positioned in a corresponding receptacle of the tank device holder 48 when the tank device 46 is fixed to the base head 12 and is movable in the z-direction 82, wherein the mobility is limited to a corresponding distance, and without additional measures, a release of the tank device 46 from the tank device holder 48 is blocked.

[0108] It is fundamentally possible for the tank device 46 as a whole with the lid 60 to be movable in the z-direction 82 relative to the base head 12, or for the tub 52, for example, to be movable in the z-direction 82 relative to a lid 60 or a lid formed by the tank device holder 48.

[0109] It can additionally be provided that the tank device 46 or the part of the tank device 46 on which the sweeping elements 70, 72 are located, in at least one transverse direction 84a, 84b (cf. Figure 5 ) is movable to the z-direction 82 and is mounted floatingly on the tank device holder 48.

[0110] The floor cleaning machine 10 comprises a tank device 86 for cleaning fluid ( Figure 1 ). This tank device 86 for cleaning fluid holds a cleaning fluid, which can be fed directly or indirectly to the floor 34 to be cleaned via a feed device 88.

[0111] The cleaning fluid is, in particular, fresh water, to which a cleaning agent additive, in particular a surfactant, may be added. It is also possible in principle for the tank device 86 to have separate tanks for fresh water and cleaning agent additive, and for the corresponding mixing to take place.

[0112] In one embodiment, cleaning fluid is supplied to the corresponding cleaning roller 14 via the supply device 88; the textile trim 30 of the corresponding cleaning roller 14 is then moistened via cleaning fluid.

[0113] The cleaning fluid can be used to loosen dirt on a floor 34. Additionally, the corresponding cleaning roller 14 exerts a mechanical action on the dirt. The cleaning roller 14 performs a rotating wiping motion on the floor 34.

[0114] In one embodiment, the tank device 86 is arranged on the holding device 38. It is also possible, in principle, for it to be arranged on the base head 12.

[0115] In this case, reference is made to WO 2017 / 15345 A1 or DE 10 2019 109 946 as examples.

[0116] Furthermore, reference is made to WO 2016 / / 058901 A1 as an example. For example, during a cleaning operation of the floor cleaning machine 10, in which the cleaning rollers 14 are rotated, cleaning agent is automatically supplied from the tank device 86 via the supply device 88 to the cleaning rollers 14 by appropriately opening a valve or switching a pump.

[0117] A scraper device 90 is arranged on the floor head 12, associated with the cleaning rollers 14 (see Figure 8). The wiper device 90 comprises a wiper 92, which is immersed in the textile lining 30 of the associated cleaning roller 14a, 14b. The corresponding wiper 92 allows dirty fluid to be released from the associated cleaning roller 14 and conveyed into the tank device 46. Reference is made in this context to WO 2019 / 086083 A1.

[0118] For this purpose, (at least) one supply channel 94 is provided, which opens into the receiving space 54.

[0119] In one embodiment, the scraper 92 is arranged on a coupling element 96. An opening 97 for the feed channel 94 is arranged on the coupling element 96. The scraper 92 forms an opening wall for the opening 97. In particular, the tank device 46 or the partial area where the sweeping elements 70, 72 are located is movable in the z-direction 82 relative to the coupling element 96.

[0120] In order to enable this mobility on the tank device 46 and to obtain a tight supply channel 94, a sealing device 98 is provided which seals the supply channel 94 with respect to the coupling element 96 in order to obtain a fluid-tight supply channel 94 at different positions of the tank device 46 in the z-direction to the coupling element 96.

[0121] The scraper 92 is positioned at a distance from the respective sweeping element 70, 72.

[0122] In one embodiment, the corresponding cleaning roller 14 rotates in a direction of rotation 100 such that the scraper 92 is arranged downstream of the corresponding sweeping element 70 or 72. This allows coarse dirt picked up by the corresponding sweeping element 70, 72 to be transported by the corresponding cleaning roller 14 to the scraper 92. Dirt fluid is separated at the scraper 92 and conveyed into the receiving space 54 via the at least one supply channel 94.

[0123] For example, it is possible for the coupling element 96 and / or the supply channel 94 to be arranged on a cover 60 of the tank device 46. Reference is made in this context to WO 2019 / 029821 A1.

[0124] It is then particularly advantageous if the tub 52 is movable relative to this cover 60 in order to enable mobility in the z-direction 82 in order to be able to adjust the fixed distance D with respect to the sweeping edges 76 from the floor 34.

[0125] With regard to the floating tank device 46, the floor cleaning machine 10 functions as follows: During a cleaning operation of the floor cleaning machine 10, the latter is placed onto the floor 34 to be cleaned via the cleaning rollers 14a, 14b and moved over the floor.

[0126] The cleaning rollers 14a, 14b are supplied with cleaning fluid from the tank device 86. The cleaning rollers 14a, 14b rotate in the direction of rotation 100 and, in particular, they rotate in opposite directions.

[0127] The textile lining 30 is moistened. The cleaning rollers 14a, 14b act with a corresponding lining area on the floor 34 to be cleaned. A mechanical action occurs, and dirt is moistened to improve its removal.

[0128] Coarse dirt is collected via the sweeping elements 70, 72 and can be carried along by the corresponding cleaning roller 14a, 14b in the direction of rotation 100.

[0129] Dirt fluid, including coarse dirt, can be detached from the cleaning roller 14 at the respective scraper 92 and is then transported into the tank device 46 and thereby into the corresponding receiving space 54.

[0130] The sweeping elements 70, 72 are arranged on the trough 52 and thus on the tank device 46 or on a portion of the tank device 46. The trough 52 with the sweeping elements 70, 72 is mounted on the floor head 12 in a floating manner in the z-direction 82. During cleaning operation, the trough 52 is supported by the support elements 78 on the floor 34 to be cleaned. The fixed, defined distance D between the sweeping edge 76 and the floor 34 is automatically set.

[0131] This automatic adjustment takes place with different trim thicknesses B of the corresponding cleaning roller 14a, 14b (compare the Figures 3 and 4 ). The trim thickness B may change, for example, due to wear of the cleaning roller 14, or may also vary due to manufacturing tolerances.

[0132] For example, the textile trim 30 is also compressed more strongly on the floor 34 to be cleaned in a placement area than outside (compare the Figures 3 and 4 ). When the tank device 46 is full, the width B may be smaller than when it is empty.

[0133] The floating mounting of the tank device 46 or the tub 52 enables mobility of the tub 52 relative to the rotational axis 16a or 16b of the corresponding cleaning roller 14 in the z-direction 82. Compare the Figures 3 and 4 , in which the tub 52 takes different positions relative to the axis of rotation 16a.

[0134] As mentioned, this results in a fixed distance D between the sweeping edge 76 and the floor 34, regardless of the situation on the cleaning roller 14. This, in turn, results in an optimized coarse dirt collection function for the respective sweeping element 70, 72. On the one hand, this prevents hooking on the floor 34 and, on the other hand, prevents larger particles from "slipping through" under the respective sweeping element 70, 72.

[0135] The corresponding function is ensured independently of manufacturing tolerances and over the service life of the cleaning roller 14 with wear of the textile trim 30 (with reduction of the diameter of the cleaning rollers 14).

[0136] In one embodiment, the tank device 46 or the trough 52 is mounted on the floor head 12 in such a way that it is pressed against the floor 34 by gravity, so that the support elements 78 rest on the floor 34. The weight of the trough 52 causes the automatic positioning of the sweeping edge 76 at the fixed distance D from the floor 32.

[0137] Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for a spring device 102 to press the tray 52 in a direction 104 towards the support plane 36 (compare Figure 3 ). The spring device 102 is supported in particular on the tank device holder 48 and on the tub 52 in order to press the support elements 78 against the floor 34.

[0138] A pin strip 106 with a plurality of pins 108 is arranged on the base head 12. The pins 108 of the pin strip 106 are pins that rest against the textile trim 30 or protrude into the textile trim 30 of the associated cleaning roller 14a, 14b.

[0139] The pin strip 106 is used to hold hair in the manner of a hairbrush.

[0140] The pins 108 are in particular made of a plastic material.

[0141] The pin strip 106 is arranged on the base head 12 in such a way that it can be removed in its entirety by an operator. The operator can then clean the pin strip 106 of any hair caught in it.

[0142] The pin strip 106 comprises a carrier 110 on which the pins 108 are arranged. The pins 108 protrude beyond the carrier 110.

[0143] The pins 108 extend in a pin direction 114. They have a flat end face 116. In particular, a pin 108 has a diameter in the range between 0.1 mm and 0.5 mm at the end face 116. In one embodiment, this diameter at the end face 116 is approximately 0.3 mm.

[0144] In one embodiment, the pin strip 106 is formed on a coupling element 118. The coupling element 118 is positioned on the base head 12. The coupling element 118 is removable as a whole from the base head 12, or the pin strip 106 is removable from the coupling element 118.

[0145] The coupling element 118 comprises a holder 120. The carrier 110 of the pin strip 106 with the pins 108 is fixedly or detachably attached to the holder 120 (see above).

[0146] Furthermore, the wiper 92 is located on the holder 120 of the coupling element 118 at a distance from the pins 108.

[0147] In one embodiment, the mouth 97 is further formed at least partially on the coupling element 118.

[0148] A first row 122a and a second row 122b of pins 108 are arranged on the carrier 110, which is in particular fixedly attached to the holder 120.

[0149] The first row 122a and the second row 122b extend in a longitudinal direction 124 ( Figure 11 ). In particular, the end faces 116 of the pins 108 in a row 122a or 122b lie on a line parallel to the longitudinal direction 124.

[0150] When the pin strip 106 is positioned on the base head 12, the longitudinal direction 124 is parallel to the corresponding first axis of rotation 16a for the first cleaning roller 14a or to the second axis of rotation 16b for the second cleaning roller 14b.

[0151] The longitudinal direction 124 is furthermore at least approximately parallel to the support plane 36.

[0152] The second row 122b is spaced apart from the first row 122a in a transverse direction 126.

[0153] In the embodiment shown, the pins 108 in the first row 122a and in the second row 122b are each in a line.

[0154] In principle, it is possible for pins to be offset in the transverse direction 126 within a row.

[0155] In particular, the rows 122a, 122b have a length that essentially corresponds to the length of the associated cleaning roller 14a, 14b, or is slightly shorter. This ensures hair collection essentially over the entire length of the corresponding cleaning roller 14.

[0156] Coupling elements 128 and, in particular, locking elements are located on the holder 120 and, in particular, on the carrier 110, via which the pin strip 106 can be connected and, in particular, locked to a corresponding counter-element on the base head 12. The coupling elements 128 and their counter-elements are designed such that an operator can easily detach and reinsert the pin strip 106 or the coupling element 128, in particular for cleaning purposes.

[0157] The pins 108 of the pin strip 106 are in contact with the textile trim 30 or are immersed in it during operation of the floor cleaning machine 10, see in particular Figure 10 .

[0158] During operation of the floor cleaning machine 10, the scraper 92 is provided with a depth T 1 ( Figure 10 ) into the textile lining 30 of the corresponding cleaning roller 14. A corresponding immersion depth of pins 108 is at T 2 .

[0159] The immersion depth T 2 lies in the range between (inclusive) 0 mm and (inclusive) 4 mm, whereby an immersion depth of 0 mm means that the pins 108 rest with the end face 112 on the textile trim 30.

[0160] In particular, it is provided that the pins 108 protrude into the textile trim 30 to the same or lesser depth than the wiper 92 (as an outlet wall for wiping off dirty fluid and coupling it into the tank device 46).

[0161] In particular, a difference T 1 - T 2 is in the range between (including) 0 mm and (including) 1 mm.

[0162] On the pin strip 106, pins 108, and in particular all pins 108, are aligned in the pin direction 114. This pin direction 140 is oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the corresponding rotational axis 16a or 16b of the associated cleaning roller 14.

[0163] The pin direction 140 is further oriented parallel or obliquely to the z-direction 82. A corresponding angle 130 of the pin direction 114 to the z-direction 82 (and thus also to a normal of the support plane 36) is, for example, in the range between 0° and 10°.

[0164] Furthermore, the pin direction 140 is parallel or at an acute angle 132 to the wiper 92 (compare Figure 10 ). This angle 132 lies in particular in the range between 0° and 25°.

[0165] An optimized result for hair pickup has been achieved when the pin direction 114 and the scraper 92 are not aligned parallel to each other, but are aligned at an acute angle and in particular an acute angle of approximately 20°.

[0166] The pins 108 on the pin strip 106 are arranged similarly to elements on a hairbrush to achieve optimized hair collection. Relative to the direction of rotation 100, the pin strip 106 is positioned downstream of the stripper 92. Hair that has not been coupled into the opening 97 can be collected by the pin strip 106.

[0167] The pin strip 106 is spring-loaded on the base head 12. Alternatively or additionally, the scraper 92 is force-loaded to the mouth 97 and, in particular, is spring-loaded on the base head 12.

[0168] In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling element 118 is mounted on the base head 12 in a force-loaded and, in particular, spring-loaded manner. As a result, the pin strip 106 and the wiper 92 are jointly mounted on the base head 12 in a force-loaded and, in particular, spring-loaded manner.

[0169] The coupling element 118 is movable in a movement axis 134 and is in particular displaceably mounted on the base head 12.

[0170] The coupling element 118 is located on a displacement guide 136. The movement axis 134 is oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the respective rotation axis 16a or 16b.

[0171] The movement axis 134 lies in particular at an acute angle to the z-direction 82.

[0172] The movement axis 134 is also at an acute angle to the normal of the support plane 36.

[0173] The movement axis 134 is in particular aligned with a central axis of the associated cleaning roller 14.

[0174] In one embodiment, the movement axis 134 is oriented parallel to the wiper 92.

[0175] The coupling element 118 is assigned a spring device 138 for applying force (see Figure 8). The spring device 138 exerts a spring force which tends to press the coupling element 118 with the pin strip 106 and the wiper 92 against the textile trim 30 of the associated cleaning roller 14.

[0176] In one embodiment, the coupling element 118 comprises a contact element 140 with a contact surface 142 as a contact surface for the textile trim 30. The contact surface 142 can rest against the textile trim 30 without penetrating it.

[0177] In particular, the pins 108 and the wiper 92 extend over the contact surface 142. The contact element 140 forms a stop for the coupling element 118 on the corresponding cleaning roller 14. It is designed such that the pins 108 dip into the textile trim 30 with the desired immersion depth T 2 and the wiper 92 with the desired immersion depth T 1.

[0178] Regardless of the diameter 30 of the corresponding cleaning roller 14, it is guaranteed that the corresponding (preset) immersion depth T 1 and immersion depth T 2 are achieved. The spring device 138 presses the contact element 140 against the surface of the cleaning roller 14, regardless of the diameter of the cleaning roller 14.

[0179] Even if, for example, the diameter of the cleaning roller 14 decreases due to wear of the textile lining 30, the depth T 1 and T 2 specified for an optimized cleaning result is maintained.

[0180] Corresponding manufacturing tolerances can also be compensated by the movable mounting and spring mounting of the coupling element 118.

[0181] The coupling element 118 ensures a consistent distance from the textile lining 30, regardless of the condition or design of the corresponding cleaning roller 14. This results in optimized stripping results for both dirt fluids and hair. The immersion depths T 1 and T 2 are independent of tolerances, roller diameter, and wear. This ensures optimized dirt pickup (including hair pickup). On the one hand, insufficient penetration is prevented (which can negatively impact dirt pickup), and on the other hand, excessive penetration is prevented (which can result in increased power consumption of the floor cleaning machine 10 as well as increased motor and transmission loads).

[0182] The spring device 138 can be formed by one or more coil springs. The force can also be applied, for example, via one or more rubber buffers. It is also possible for a pressure cylinder, for example, to be provided for the application of force.

[0183] In principle, it is also possible for the contact of the contact element 140 to the textile trim 30 of the associated cleaning roller 14 to be driven solely by gravity.

[0184] In the described embodiment, a coupling element 118 is provided on which both the pin strip 106 and the wiper 92 are arranged.

[0185] It is fundamentally possible that separate movable and in particular displaceable elements are provided for the pin strip 106 and for the wiper 92.

[0186] It is also possible that either only the pin strip 106 is mounted in a movable and in particular displaceable manner, or only the wiper 92 is mounted in a displaceable manner.

[0187] In the Figures 8 to 10 different positions of the coupling element 118 on its displacement guide 136 relative to the first cleaning roller 14a are shown.

[0188] The Figures 8 and 9 The positions shown are transitional positions to explain the basic functionality.

[0189] In Figure 10 a final position is shown in which the contact surface 142 rests on the outside of the textile trim 30, so that the pins 108 and the wiper 92 penetrate into the textile trim 30 with the respectively predetermined immersion depth T 1 and T 2.

[0190] As mentioned above, it can also be provided, for example, that the pins 108 only touch the textile trim 30 and do not penetrate into it (with an immersion depth T 2 of 0 mm).

[0191] The Figure 9 The position shown is in particular also a position for the coupling element 118, for example when the cleaning roller 14 is to be replaced.

[0192] It is possible that a floating tank, as described with reference to the floor cleaning machine 10, can also be used with a floor cleaning machine 144 ( Figure 16 ) is used, which is self-propelled and, in particular, self-steering. On such a floor cleaning machine, which has a floor head 146, a tank device for cleaning fluid is then arranged, in particular, on the floor head.

[0193] With regard to the floating mounting of the tank device for dirty fluid, on which one or more sweeping elements are arranged, the functionality is the same as described above.

[0194] The floor cleaning machine 144 may also be equipped with one or more pin strips 106 for hair collection.

[0195] Furthermore, it is possible that a corresponding pin strip 106 and / or a wiper 92 for a corresponding cleaning roller 14 are mounted in a movable and in particular displaceable manner and in particular in a force-loaded manner.

[0196] Another embodiment of a floor cleaning machine 148 ( Figure 16 ) comprises a floor head 150. The floor head 150 is supported on a floor to be cleaned by a single cleaning roller 152 during a cleaning operation. A removable tank device 154 for dirt fluid is located on the floor head 150.

[0197] The base head 150 is provided with a pin strip corresponding to the pin strip 106, which is located in particular on the tank device 154.

[0198] It is provided in particular that the pin strip 106 and / or a corresponding wiper for the cleaning roller 152 are mounted in a movable and in particular displaceable manner and in particular in a spring-loaded manner, as described above. List of reference symbols

[0199] 10 Floor cleaning machine 12 Floor head 14 a First cleaning roller 14 b Second cleaning roller 16 a First rotary axis 16 b Second rotary axis 18 First shaft 20 First shaft section 22 Second shaft section 24 First part 26 Second part 28 Side edge 30 Textile trim 32 Holder 34 Floor 36 Support plane 38 Holding device 40 Swivel joint 42 Swivel axis 44 Swivel axis 46 Tank device 48 Tank device holder 50 Removal direction 52 Tray 54 Receiving space 56 Floor 58 Wall 60 Cover 62 Side wall 64 Side wall 66 Recess 68 Fixing element 70 First sweeping element 72 Second sweeping element 74 Recess 76 Sweeping edge 78 Support elements 80Ribs 82z-direction 84a,84bTransverse direction 86Tank device for cleaning fluid 88Feed device 90Scraper device 92Scraper 94Feed channel 96Coupling element 97Orifice 98Sealing device 100Direction of rotation 102Spring device 104Direction 106Pin strip 108Pin 110Carrier 112End face 114Pin direction 116End face 118Coupling element 120Holder 122aFirst row 122bSecond row 124Longitudinal direction 126Transverse direction 128Coupling element 130Shaft 132Shaft 134Movement axis 136Displacement guide 138Spring device 140Contact element 142Contact surface 144Floor cleaning machine 146Floor head 148Floor cleaning machine 150Floor head 152Cleaning roller 154Tank device DDistance to the floor 34 T 1 , T 2 Immersion depth,

Claims

1. Floor cleaning machine, comprising a floor head (12; 146), at least one cleaning roller (14), which is arranged on the floor head (12; 146), a tank device (46), which is arranged on the floor head (12; 146), and at least one sweeping element (70; 72), which is associated with the at least one cleaning roller (14), wherein the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is arranged on the tank device (46), characterized in that at least a partial region (52) of the tank device (46) on which the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is arranged is floatingly mounted and is movable relative to the floor head (12; 146) in a cleaning operation.

2. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with Claim 1, characterized in that the at least one sweeping element (70, 72) and the tank device (46) are configured such that the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is at a defined fixed distance (D) from a floor (34) to be cleaned in a cleaning operation, in particular with at least one of the following: - the defined distance (D), in particular with respect to a sweeping edge (76), from the floor (34) is greater than zero and, in particular, greater than 0.5 mm and, in particular, greater than 0.7 mm and, in particular, is about 1 mm; - the defined distance (D), in particular with respect to a sweeping edge (76), is smaller than 1.5 mm and, in particular, smaller than 1.3 mm and, in particular, is about 1 mm.

3. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is arranged on a base (56) or on a side wall (62; 64) of the tank device (46).

4. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that arranged on the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) and / or the tank device (46) is at least one support element (78) for a floor (34) to be cleaned, which keeps the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) at a defined fixed distance (D) from the floor (34) to be cleaned, and in particular characterized by at least one of the following: - the at least one support element (78) is configured as a rib (80) on the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) and / or the tank device (46); - a plurality of support elements (78) are provided; - located between adjacent support elements (78) is a free region, which does not contact the floor (34) to be cleaned; - the support elements (78) are arranged in a row, wherein, in particular, a longitudinal direction of the row is at least approximately parallel to an axis of rotation (16a, 16b) of the at least one cleaning roller (14); - the at least one support element (78) is configured as a sliding element or rolling element for the floor (34) to be cleaned.

5. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized by at least one of the following: - the tank device (46) or the partial region (52) of the tank device (46) on which the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is arranged is floatingly mounted on a tank device holder (48) of the floor head (12; 146); - the tank device (46) or the partial region (52) of the tank device (46) on which the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is arranged is mounted suspended on the floor head (12; 146); - the tank device (46) or the partial region (52) of the tank device (46) on which the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is arranged is mounted on the floor head (12; 146) so as to be movable at least in a z-direction (82), with at least one of the following: - the z-direction (82) is oriented transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to an axis of rotation (16a, 16b) of the at least one cleaning roller (14); - the z-direction (82) is oriented transversely and, in particular, at least approximately perpendicularly to a contact plane (36) of the at least one cleaning roller (14a, 14b) for a floor (34) to be cleaned; - the z-direction (82) is oriented at least approximately parallel to a removal direction (50) of the tank device (46) from the floor head (12; 146); - the tank device (46) or the partial region (52) of the tank device (46) on which the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is arranged is mounted on the floor head (12; 146) so as to be movable in at least one direction (84a; 84b) transverse to the z-direction (82).

6. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is arranged and configured such that it feeds dirt particles to the at least one cleaning roller (14), such dirt particles being entrained by the at least one cleaning roller (14) as a result of the rotation of the at least one cleaning roller (14), in particular with at least one of the following: - the tank device (46) is configured as a tank device for dirty fluid; - at least one supply channel (94) for supplying dirty fluid from the at least one cleaning roller (14) to a receiving space (54) of the tank device (46) is provided; - a sealing device (98) is provided, which is arranged on the tank device (46) or the partial region (52) of the tank device (46) on which the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) sits, and which seals the at least one supply channel (94) independently of a position of the tank device (46) or the partial region (52) of the tank device (46) relative to an input-coupling element (118) for the at least one supply channel (94); - the input-coupling element (118) sits on the floor head (12; 146), in particular with at least one of the following: - the sealing device (98) is of movable and / or elastic configuration; - at least one scraping element (92) for the at least one cleaning roller (14) sits on the input-coupling element (118); - an opening (97) for the at least one supply channel (94) is arranged on the input-coupling element (118); - the at least one scraping element (92) forms an opening wall; - the tank device (46) or the partial region (52) of the tank device (46) on which the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is arranged is movable relative to the input-coupling element (118) in a cleaning operation.

7. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the tank device (46) or the partial region (52) of the tank device (46) on which the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is arranged is gravity-driven, or is pressed by a spring device (102) in the direction of a contact plane (36) of the at least one cleaning roller (14a; 14b) on a floor (34) to be cleaned.

8. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized by a scraping device (90) for scraping dirty fluid from the at least one cleaning roller (14) and for coupling into the tank device (46).

9. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized by at least one of the following: - the at least one cleaning roller (14) has a textile covering (30), and in particular a scraper (92) of a scraping device (90) penetrates into the textile covering (30); - the at least one cleaning roller (14) is of two-part configuration and a center drive is provided; - a tank device (86) for cleaning liquid and a supply device (88) for supplying cleaning liquid to the at least one cleaning roller (14) and / or to a floor (34) to be cleaned are provided.

10. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized by a pin strip (106) with pins (108) for picking up hair, wherein, in particular, pins (108) penetrate into or abut against a textile covering (30) of the at least one cleaning roller (14).

11. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the at least one sweeping element (70; 72) is arranged upstream from a scraper (92) for the at least one cleaning roller (14) with respect to a normal direction of rotation (100) of the at least one cleaning roller (14) in a cleaning operation.

12. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized by a first cleaning roller (14a) and a second cleaning roller (14b), which is arranged on the floor head (12) at a distance from the first cleaning roller (14a), in particular with at least one of the following: - a first axis of rotation (16a) of the first cleaning roller (14a) and a second axis of rotation (16b) of the second cleaning roller (14b) are oriented in parallel to one another; - in a normal operating mode of the floor cleaning machine, the first cleaning roller (14a) and the second cleaning roller (14b) rotate in opposite directions, in particular characterized in that a first sweeping element (70) is associated with the first cleaning roller (14a) and / or a second sweeping element (72) is associated with the second cleaning roller (14b).

13. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized by a holding device (38) for an operator, which is arranged on the floor head (12), wherein the floor cleaning machine, in particular, is of hand-held or hand-guided configuration, and wherein same, in particular, is operable by an operator in a standing position, or characterized by a self-propelled and self-steering configuration.

14. Method for operating a floor cleaning machine, in particular in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, in which a cleaning roller (14) is arranged on a floor head (12) and coarse dirt is fed to the rotating cleaning roller (14) by way of a sweeping element (70), wherein the sweeping element (70) is arranged on a tank device (46) and the tank device (46) or a partial region (52) of the tank device (46) on which the sweeping element (70) is arranged is floatingly mounted and is movable relative to the floor head (12) in a cleaning operation, and in which there is a defined fixed distance (D) of the sweeping element (70) from a floor (34) in the cleaning operation.

15. Method in accordance with Claim 14, characterized in that the sweeping element (70) is supported on the floor (34) to be cleaned by way of at least one support element (78), wherein the at least one support element (78) is arranged on the sweeping element (70) and / or the tank device (46).