BASE STATION AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A CLEANING SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for operating a cleaning system according to the preamble of claim 1 and to a base station for fluidically connecting a plurality of mobile cleaning devices according to the preamble of claim 12.

[0002] A base station in the sense of the present invention is a constructive, preferably stationary, device for servicing a (mobile) cleaning device, in particular for emptying or vacuuming a collecting container of the cleaning device.

[0003] EP 3 033 982 A1 discloses such a base station for cleaning and / or emptying a handheld vacuum cleaner, wherein the base station can be connected to an optional adapter module in order to connect a vacuum robot to the base station in addition to the handheld vacuum cleaner.

[0004] US 2018 / 0304462 A1 discloses a cleaning system with a movable base station and several cleaning units, each of which is supplied with power and a cleaning agent via a line.

[0005] The present invention is based on the object of providing an improved method for operating a cleaning system, an improved base station for fluidically connecting multiple cleaning devices, and an improved filter device for a base station, thereby enabling or supporting fast, flexible, energy-efficient, and / or user-friendly maintenance of the cleaning devices. In particular, the base station should have a simple, robust, and / or compact design.

[0006] The object underlying the invention is achieved by a method according to claim 1 or a base station according to claim 12. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0007] A cleaning system within the meaning of the present invention is a system with multiple components for cleaning surfaces, in particular floors, indoors and / or outdoors. Such a cleaning system comprises at least one, preferably several, (mobile) cleaning devices and a preferably stationary base station for maintaining the cleaning devices. The cleaning devices are connected to the base station after use or a cleaning process in order to charge the cleaning devices (electrically), preferably automatically or automatically, and / or to empty or vacuum them, preferably automatically or automatically.

[0008] A cleaning device within the meaning of the present invention is preferably a hand-held vacuum cleaner, in particular a movable floor vacuum cleaner, a canister vacuum cleaner or stick or upright vacuum cleaner, or a (partially) autonomous or self-propelled or self-flying vacuum cleaner robot, hereinafter referred to as vacuum robot.

[0009] However, a cleaning device within the meaning of the present invention can also be any other device for cleaning and / or maintaining surfaces, in particular floors. For example, floor cleaning devices or robots, polishing devices or robots, window cleaning devices or robots, or lawn mowers or robots are also generally considered cleaning devices within the meaning of the present invention.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, several cleaning devices are serviced simultaneously by means of the base station, in particular emptied or vacuumed and / or filled with a cleaning agent, particularly preferably automatically or independently.

[0011] The proposed base station is therefore designed for simultaneous maintenance, in particular emptying / vacuuming and / or filling, of the cleaning devices.

[0012] Preferably, the base station comprises a working machine, in particular a blower and / or a pump, and a container in order to simultaneously suck suction material out of the cleaning devices and / or pump a cleaning agent into the cleaning devices.

[0013] This enables particularly fast and efficient maintenance of the cleaning equipment and increases the availability of the cleaning equipment.

[0014] According to a further aspect of the present invention, which can also be implemented independently, the cleaning devices are maintained, in particular emptied / vacuumized or filled, and / or electrically charged, by the base station or independently / automatically according to a prioritization - in particular predefined or electronically stored.

[0015] Preferably, a first, in particular (semi-)autonomous and / or self-propelled or self-flying, cleaning device, such as a vacuum robot, is emptied or vacuumed and / or filled subordinately and / or a second, in particular hand-guided, cleaning device is emptied or vacuumed and / or filled primarily by the base station.

[0016] For example, it may be provided to interrupt emptying / vacuuming and / or filling of the first cleaning device when the second cleaning device is (fluidically) connected to the base station. Additionally or alternatively, it may be provided to only start emptying / vacuuming and / or filling of the first cleaning device when the second cleaning device is fully charged, emptied / vacuumed and / or filled, or is being used by a user.

[0017] Prioritization increases the availability of the prioritized cleaning device, especially a handheld cleaning device, and thus increases user-friendliness.

[0018] In a particularly preferred process variant, the cleaning devices are emptied / vacuumized and / or filled either one after the other or according to a prioritization or simultaneously.

[0019] The base station preferably has a control device and a shut-off device, such as a shut-off valve, which is in particular controlled or connected to the control device in order to optionally fluidically connect the first cleaning device, the second cleaning device and / or both cleaning devices to the base station or the container of the base station.

[0020] The proposed filter device for the base station preferably has multiple connection openings for filling the filter. The filter device preferably has a first connection opening for the first cleaning device and a second (separate) connection opening for the second cleaning device. This makes it possible to use the filter device simultaneously for multiple cleaning devices or fluid connections and / or to fill them from different sides.

[0021] A filter device within the meaning of the present invention is a device for filtering a fluid, in particular air, preferably to separate particles from the fluid. A filter device within the meaning of the present invention is preferably a disposable item. For example, a filter device within the meaning of the present invention can be designed as a filter bag, filter pouch, or filter cartridge.

[0022] The proposed filter device is preferably designed to be extendable or expandable and has - at least in the expanded state - an elongated, in particular cylindrical, shape.

[0023] The connection openings of the filter device are preferably arranged on each end face of the filter device, in particular such that the fluid to be cleaned can flow into the filter device axially or from above and below. This enables a particularly compact design of the base station and easy installation and removal of the filter device.

[0024] The filter unit can optionally be equipped with a partition wall that divides the filter unit into two chambers. This prevents all the vacuumed material from accumulating at the bottom or at the first connection opening of the filter unit, thus impairing the suction of the cleaning device connected there.

[0025] The aforementioned aspects, features and method steps of the invention as well as the aspects, features and method steps of the present invention resulting from the claims and the following description can in principle be implemented independently of one another, but also in any desired combination or sequence.

[0026] Further aspects, advantages, features, and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. It shows: Fig. 1 is a schematic side view of a proposed cleaning system with a proposed base station according to a first embodiment and several cleaning devices connected thereto in the connection position; Fig. 2 is a schematic side view of the cleaning system with the proposed base station according to a second embodiment; Fig. 3A is a perspective view of the base station according to Fig. 2 when inserting a proposed filter device; Fig. 3B a perspective view of the base station according to Fig. 2 with inserted and partially expanded filter device; and Fig. 3C a perspective view of the base station according to Fig. 2 with fully expanded filter device.

[0027] In the figures, some of which are not to scale and are merely schematic, the same reference symbols are used for the same, identical or similar parts and components, whereby corresponding or comparable properties and advantages result, even if a repeated description is omitted.

[0028] Fig. 1 shows schematically a proposed cleaning system 1 with a proposed base station 10.

[0029] The representation according to Fig. 1 shows the cleaning system 1 or the base station 10 in the installed / mounted state or in the usual position of use, in which the base station 10 (rear side) rests or is fastened to a wall 2 and preferably (floor side) rests on a floor 3 or ends or is arranged close to the floor.

[0030] The cleaning system 1 is preferably equipped with several components.

[0031] Preferably, the cleaning system 1 - in addition to the base station 10 - has at least one (mobile) cleaning device 20, 30, wherein the cleaning device 20, 30 can be fluidically and / or electrically coupled to the base station 10, in particular in order to empty / vacuum and / or electrically charge the cleaning device 20, 30, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0032] At the Fig. 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the cleaning system 1 comprises several, here two different, cleaning devices 20, 30, wherein in this case a first cleaning device 20 is designed as a vacuum robot and a second cleaning device 30 is designed as a handheld vacuum cleaner. However, other configurations are also conceivable, for example, in which the cleaning system 1 comprises several vacuum robots.

[0033] The following describes the use of the base station 10 with two cleaning devices 20, 30. However, it is also possible for the cleaning system 1 to have only one cleaning device 20, 30 or for the base station 10 to be used with only one cleaning device 20, 30.

[0034] The cleaning system 1 is primarily used indoors or for cleaning indoors. However, it is also generally possible to use the cleaning system 1 in outdoor spaces / areas or to use it for cleaning outdoor spaces / areas.

[0035] As already explained above, the base station 10 is designed for the (electrical) charging and / or (automated) maintenance, in particular for emptying or vacuuming and / or filling, of one or more cleaning devices 20, 30. For this purpose, the cleaning devices 20, 30 are coupled to the base station 10, thereby establishing a fluidic and / or electrical connection between the base station 10 and the cleaning devices 20, 30.

[0036] The connection / coupling of the cleaning devices 20, 30 to the base station 10 can be done manually—for example, in the case of a handheld vacuum cleaner—or automatically or autonomously—for example, in the case of a robot vacuum cleaner. In the embodiments shown, the first cleaning device 20 connects automatically or autonomously to the base station 10 after a cleaning process, and the second cleaning device 30 is hung manually or by a user in the base station 10 in order to electrically charge and / or vacuum or fill the cleaning devices 20, 30 using the base station 10.

[0037] The base station 10 is preferably elongated and / or box-shaped or cabinet-like.

[0038] It is preferred that the base station 10 be fixedly or immovably connected to the wall 2. However, the base station 10 can also be designed as a freestanding and / or mobile or movable device.

[0039] Preferably, the base station 10 is mounted on the wall 2 in such a way that the base station 10 rests on the floor 3 in the installed state and lies flat against the wall 2. However, other solutions are also possible, in particular in which the base station 10 is arranged at a distance from the floor 3 in the installed state or is suspended from the wall 2, as in Fig. 2 shown.

[0040] The base station 10 is preferably constructed in several parts or has a modular design. The base station 10 particularly preferably has several modules or can be expanded with one or more modules.

[0041] The base station 10 preferably has a base module 40 and / or a head module 50, in particular wherein the head module 50 is arranged (directly) above the base module 40 in the position of use or in the installed state.

[0042] Preferably, the base module 40 is designed for electrically and / or fluidically connecting the first cleaning device 20 and / or the head module 50 is designed for electrically and / or fluidically connecting the second cleaning device 30. Thus, the first cleaning device 20 can be (electrically) charged, filled, and / or emptied by means of the base module 40 and / or the second cleaning device 30 can be (electrically) charged, filled, and / or emptied by means of the head module 50, in particular from the side, from below, and / or from above.

[0043] The floor module 40 is preferably designed to supply the first cleaning device 20 with electrical energy or to Fig. 1to charge the only schematically indicated accumulator 20A of the first cleaning device 20 when and / or as soon as the cleaning device 20 is connected to the base station 10.

[0044] Fig. 1 shows the cleaning system 1 or the first cleaning device 20 in the coupling or connection position, in which the cleaning device 20 is electrically connected to the base station 10 or the floor module 40.

[0045] Preferably, the floor module 40 forms a receptacle 40A for the first cleaning device 20 to at least partially accommodate the first cleaning device 20. The first cleaning device 20 can thus at least partially move into the floor module 40 to establish a fluidic and / or electrical connection with the base station 10 or the floor module 40.

[0046] The floor module 40 preferably has a particularly flat or ramp-shaped base part 40B, a rear wall 40C and / or a particularly box-like upper part 40D, preferably wherein the receptacle 40A is delimited downwards by the base part 40B, on the rear wall side by the rear wall 40C and upwards by the upper part 40D.

[0047] When the base station 10 is installed, the base part 40B rests on the floor 3 and the rear wall 40C preferably rests on the wall 2.

[0048] In order to electrically connect the base station 10 or the floor module 40 to the first cleaning device 20, the base station 10 or the floor module 40 has a (first) electrical connection 40E.

[0049] The electrical connection 40E is preferably formed by one or more electrical contacts or - in particular for wireless energy transmission - by one or more coils, wherein the electrical contacts or coils are arranged on or in the base part 40B, the rear wall 40C and / or the upper part 40D, in particular on a side of the base part 40B, the rear wall 40C and / or the upper part 40D facing the receptacle 40A.

[0050] The first cleaning device 20 has an electrical connection 20B corresponding to the electrical connection 40E of the base module 40, which is preferably formed by one or more electrical contacts or - in particular for wireless energy transmission - by one or more coils on an outer side and / or a bottom side of the cleaning device 20.

[0051] The base station 10, in particular the base module 40, is equipped with an optional power supply 10A - preferably with corresponding charging electronics - and / or a power connection 10B for connection to a power grid indicated only schematically in order to enable a power supply to the first cleaning device 20, the second cleaning device 30, the base module 40 and / or the head module 50.

[0052] The base station 10, in particular the head module 50, is preferably designed to hold or partially accommodate the second cleaning device 30. In particular, the second cleaning device 30 can be attached to the head module 50 or suspended in the head module 50.

[0053] Preferably, the base station 10, in particular the head module 50, has a holder 10C to hold the second cleaning device 30, in particular in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner and / or above or at a distance from the floor 3.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the holder 10C is formed by a hook, wherein the second cleaning device 30 has a bracket corresponding to the hook for suspending the cleaning device 30. However, other solutions are also possible.

[0055] The head module 50 has a particularly box-shaped housing 50A, preferably wherein the housing 50A has or forms the holder 10C.

[0056] The second cleaning device 30 is preferably attachable to a front side 50C of the head module 50. In particular, the front side 50C has the holder 10C. However, solutions are also possible in which the second cleaning device 30 is connected or hung laterally on the base station 10 or the head module 50.

[0057] Preferably, the electrical connection between the base station 10 or the head module 50 and the second cleaning device 30 is established by or simultaneously with attaching or mechanically coupling the cleaning device 30 to the base station 10 or the head module 50.

[0058] In order to establish an electrical connection between the base station 10 or the head module 50 and the second cleaning device 30, the base station 10 or the head module 50 has a (second) electrical connection 50E.

[0059] The electrical connection 50E is preferably formed by one or more electrical contacts or—particularly for wireless power transmission—by one or more coils. The electrical contacts or coils are preferably arranged on or in the front side 50C of the head module 50.

[0060] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the electrical connection 50E is integrated into the holder 10C (as in Fig. 2 shown).

[0061] The second cleaning device 30 preferably has a battery 30A and an electrical connection 30B corresponding to the electrical connection 50E of the head module 50, preferably wherein the electrical connection 30B is connected to the battery 30A of the second cleaning device 30 via one or more electrical lines.

[0062] The electrical connection 30B of the second cleaning device 30 is preferably formed by one or more electrical contacts or - in particular for wireless energy transmission - by one or more coils on an outer side of the second cleaning device 30.

[0063] The electrical connection between the base station 10 or the head module 50 and the second cleaning device 30 or its battery 30A is established by wirelessly or wiredly coupling the electrical connection 30B of the second cleaning device 30 to the electrical connection 50E of the head module 50. Particularly preferably, the electrical connection is established automatically when the second cleaning device 30 is hung or mechanically coupled to the base station 10 or the head module 50.

[0064] In the Fig. 1 In the connection position shown, the second cleaning device 30 is electrically connected to the base station 10 or the head module 50, in particular the electrical connection 50E, so that the second cleaning device 30 or the accumulator 30A of the second cleaning device 30 is electrically connected to the base station 10 or the head module 50 and the accumulator 30A can be charged by means of the base station 10.

[0065] Preferably, the electrical connector 50E is powered by the first 10A power supply. Optionally, the head module 50 is also equipped with a second or separate power supply and / or a second or separate power connector.

[0066] Solutions are also possible, particularly for outdoor use, in which the cleaning system 1 or the base station 10 is designed as a self-sufficient or grid-independent cleaning system. For example, the cleaning system 1 or the base station 10 can have one or more solar modules and / or accumulators or be designed as a photovoltaic stand-alone system.

[0067] The base module 40 and the head module 50 are preferably electrically connected to one another, in particular such that the electrical connection 40E of the base module 40 and the electrical connection 50E of the head module 50 are electrically connected to the (common) power supply 10A.

[0068] As already explained, the base station 10 is preferably designed - in addition to or alternatively to the electrical connection - for the fluidic, in particular pneumatic, connection of at least one, preferably several, cleaning devices 20, 30.

[0069] In order to fluidically connect the base station 10 or the floor module 40 to the first cleaning device 20, the base station 10 or the floor module 40 is preferably equipped with a (first) fluidic, in particular pneumatic, connection 40F.

[0070] The fluidic connection 40F of the base station 10 or the floor module 40 is preferably arranged in the base part 40B, in the rear wall 40C, or in the upper part 40D and / or formed by a nozzle, an opening, or the like in the base part 40B, in the rear wall 40C, or in the upper part 40D. Preferably, the fluidic connection 40F is arranged directly next to the electrical connection 40E.

[0071] At the Fig. 1In the illustrated embodiment, the rear wall 40C has the fluidic connection 40F. The first cleaning device 20 can thus fluidically connect laterally to the base station 10 or the floor module 40. However, other solutions are also possible here, in particular in which the fluidic connection 40F is integrated into the base part 40B or the upper part 40D. In this case, the first cleaning device 20 can fluidically connect at the bottom or top to the base station 10 or the floor module 40 when it moves onto the base part 40B or is located below the floor module 40.

[0072] It is preferred that the first cleaning device 20 connects both fluidically and electrically to the base station 10 or the floor module 40 (automatically) when it moves onto the base part 40B and / or against the rear wall 40C or is in the connection position.

[0073] The base station 10 or the floor module 40 preferably has a (first) container 40G, a (first) filter 40H and / or a (first) working machine 40J, such as a blower or a pump, preferably wherein the fluidic connection 40F is fluidically connected to the container 40G, the filter 40H and / or the working machine 40J.

[0074] The container 40G, the filter 40H and / or the working machine 40J are / is preferably arranged in the upper part 40D of the base module 40.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter 40H is designed as a filter bag that is arranged in the container 40G and attached to an inlet of the container 40G.

[0076] By connecting the first cleaning device 20 to the base station 10 or the floor module 40, a fluidic connection is preferably established between a collecting container 20C, indicated only schematically, of the first cleaning device 20 and the base station 10 or the floor module 40, in particular the container 40G or the working machine 40J.

[0077] By means of the working machine 40J, it is possible to convey a fluid between the first cleaning device 20 or its collecting container 20C and the base station 10 or its container 40G or vice versa.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the working machine 40J is designed as a blower or is designed to convey suction material from the collection container 20C of the first cleaning device 20 into the container 40G of the base station 10 or to vacuum out the collection container 20C.

[0079] In the connection position of the first cleaning device 20, the cleaning device 20 is thus fluidically connected, particularly preferably both fluidically and electrically, to the base station 10, in particular the base module 40, in particular in such a way that the collecting container 20C of the first cleaning device 20 can be emptied or filled and / or the accumulator 20A can be charged.

[0080] The container 40G preferably has a volume that is larger than the volume of the collection container 20C of the first cleaning device 20, preferably twice or three times larger, so that the entire contents of the collection container 20C can be accommodated by the container 40G.

[0081] In addition or alternatively to the base module 40, the head module 50 is designed for the fluidic connection of a cleaning device 20 or 30, here the second cleaning device 30.

[0082] For this purpose, the base station 10 or the head module 50 has a (second) fluidic, in particular pneumatic, connection 50F, preferably wherein the fluidic connection 50F is formed by an opening, a nozzle or the like on the front side 50C of the head module 50.

[0083] The fluidic connection 50F is preferably arranged directly next to the electrical connection 50E of the head module 50.

[0084] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the fluidic connection 50F of the head module 50 is integrated into the holder 10C for the second cleaning device 30 (as shown in Fig. 2 shown).

[0085] The base station 10 or the head module 50 preferably has a (second) container 50G, a (second) filter 50H and / or a (second) working machine 50J, such as a blower or a pump, preferably wherein the fluidic connection 50F is fluidically connected to the container 50G, the filter 50H and / or the working machine 50J.

[0086] In the connection position of the second cleaning device 30, the cleaning device 30 is fluidically connected, particularly preferably both fluidically and electrically, to the base station 10, in particular the head module 50, in particular in such a way that a collecting container 30C of the second cleaning device 30 can be emptied or filled and / or the accumulator 30A can be charged.

[0087] As already described in connection with the electrical connection between the base station 10 and the second cleaning device 30, the optional fluidic connection between the base station 10 or the head module 50 and the second cleaning device 30 or its collection container 30C is preferably also established automatically when the second cleaning device 30 is suspended in the base station 10 or the head module 50.

[0088] The filter 50H is preferably designed as a filter bag and / or arranged in the container 50G. Preferably, the filter 50H is connected to or attached to an inlet of the container 50G.

[0089] By means of the working machine 50J, it is possible to convey a fluid from the second cleaning device 30 or its collection container 30C to the base station 10 or its container 50G or vice versa.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the working machine 50J is designed as a blower and / or is designed to reduce the pressure in the container 50G and thus to convey suction material from the collecting container 30C of the second cleaning device 30 into the container 50G or to vacuum out the collecting container 30C.

[0091] Preferably, the base station 10 or the head module 50 is equipped with a flap 10D in order to open the base station 10, in particular the head module 50 or the container 50G and / or the base module 40 or the container 40G, to empty it and / or to change the filter 50H or 40H.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the flap 10D is designed as a removable or pivoting cover. However, it is also possible, for example, to provide the front side 50C with the flap 10D, as shown in Fig. 2 shown.

[0093] Due to the fluidic connection between the base station 10 and the cleaning devices 20, 30, it is possible to fill or empty the cleaning devices 20, 30 in the connection position, in particular to vacuum them.

[0094] For example, suction material can be sucked out of the collection container 20C of the first cleaning device 20 via the fluidic connection 40F of the base module 40 and / or suction material can be sucked out of the collection container 30C of the second cleaning device 30 via the fluidic connection 50F of the head module 50 and transferred into the container 40G of the base module 40 or into the container 50G of the head module 50. In this way, manual emptying of the cleaning devices 20, 30 can be eliminated.

[0095] However, it is also possible for a liquid, such as a cleaning agent, to be conveyed or pumped into the collection container 20C of the first cleaning device 20 or into the collection container 30C of the second cleaning device 30 via the fluidic connection 40F of the base module 40 and / or via the fluidic connection 50F of the head module 50. In this case, the working machine(s) 40J and 50J are preferably designed as pump(s).

[0096] The base module 40 and the head module 50 are preferably fluidically connected to one another or connectable to one another, in particular in order to fluidically connect the first cleaning device 20 to the head module 50 or the second cleaning device 30 to the base module 40 or to empty or fill the second cleaning device 30 by means of the base module 40 or the first cleaning device 20 by means of the head module 50.

[0097] Particularly preferably, the fluidic connection 40F of the base module 40 and the fluidic connection 50F of the head module 50 are fluidically connected to a common container or a common working machine, in particular the container 40G or the working machine 40J of the base module 40 or the container 50G or the working machine 50J of the head module 50, in order to empty or fill the cleaning devices 20, 30 by means of the common container and / or the common working machine.

[0098] At the Fig. 1In the configuration shown, both cleaning devices 20, 30 are fluidically connected to the head module 50 or its container 50G and / or its working machine 50J, so that the contents of the collection container 20C of the first cleaning device 20 and the contents of the collection container 30C of the second cleaning device 30 can be conveyed into the container 50G by means of the (common) working machine 50J. Alternatively, both cleaning devices 20, 30 could be fluidically connected to the base module 40 or its container 40G and / or its working machine 40J.

[0099] The container 50G or the filter 50H has an inlet, wherein in the illustrated embodiment both cleaning devices 20, 30 or both fluidic connections 40F, 50F are fluidically connected to the inlet or via corresponding lines.

[0100] Preferably, the base station 10 has an optional (controlled) shut-off device 10E, such as a shut-off flap or a valve, to control the air flow and / or the air flow. In particular, the shut-off device 10E can be used to fluidically connect either the first cleaning device 20 or the fluidic connection 40F or the second cleaning device 30 or the fluidic connection 50F to the container 50G or the filter 50H.

[0101] The base station 10 preferably has a control unit 10F that controls the (electrical) charging, emptying, and / or filling of the cleaning devices 20, 30. For this purpose, the control unit 10F is preferably electrically connected to the (first) electrical connection 40E, the (second) electrical connection 50E, the power supply unit 10A, the (first) work machine 40J, the (second) work machine 50J, and / or the shut-off device 10E.

[0102] As already explained, the cleaning system 1 or the base station 10 is preferably modular and can be expanded by one or more modules.

[0103] Due to the modularity of the cleaning system 1 or the base station 10, an existing module, for example, the floor module 40, can be connected to another module, for example, the head module 50, in order to connect another cleaning device 20, 30 to the base station 10 and / or to add additional functions to the base station 10, such as vacuuming. Furthermore, one or more functions can be performed by the added module.

[0104] In the example shown, although both modules 40, 50 can be used to vacuum and charge the cleaning devices 20, 30, it is preferred that one or more functions are performed by the base module 40 or the head module 50.

[0105] In the following, a further, particularly preferred embodiment of the cleaning system 1 or the base station 10 is described with reference to the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3A to 3C described.

[0106] The second embodiment corresponds at least substantially to the first embodiment, so that - even if not explicitly stated - the explanations given in connection with the first embodiment apply accordingly to the second embodiment and vice versa.

[0107] In particular, the embodiment described below has one or more features that are exclusively related to Fig. 1have been described. Furthermore, one or more features of the second embodiment can also be provided in the first embodiment. In particular, the proposed method can be carried out both with the base station 10 according to the first embodiment and with the base station 10 according to the second embodiment.

[0108] As already stated at the beginning, the base station 10 is designed to service the cleaning devices 20, 30 simultaneously and / or according to a prioritization - in particular a predefined and / or electronically stored prioritization - in particular to empty or vacuum them and / or to fill them with a cleaning agent and / or to charge them (electrically), particularly preferably automatically or independently.

[0109] In the Fig. 2In the embodiment shown, the base station 10 has a blower as a working machine 40J or 50J in order to suck up suction material from the cleaning devices 20, 30.

[0110] The following describes the simultaneous or prioritized emptying or vacuuming of the cleaning devices 20, 30. However, the cleaning devices 20, 30 can also be electrically charged and / or filled with a cleaning agent, for example, simultaneously or in a prioritized manner.

[0111] As already explained in connection with the first embodiment, the base station 10 can have one or more containers 40G or 50G, one or more filters 40H or 50H and / or one or more working machines 40J or 50J.

[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, it is preferred that the base station 10 comprises a container 50G, a filter 50H arranged in the container 50G, hereinafter referred to as filter device 70, and a working machine 50J.

[0113] The container 50G is preferably elongated and / or at least substantially cylindrical. Preferably, the container 50G is arranged coaxially within the housing 50A. In particular, the main axis A of the preferably elongated base station 10 also forms a longitudinal axis of the container 50G.

[0114] Preferably, the container 50G or its longitudinal axis is aligned at least substantially vertically in the installed state of the base station 10.

[0115] It is preferred that the container 50G is larger than the collection container 20C of the first cleaning device 20 and / or the collection container 30C of the second cleaning device 30, in particular by at least twice or three times, so that the entire contents of the collection container 20C of the first cleaning device 20 and / or the collection container 30C of the second cleaning device 30 can be accommodated by the container 50G.

[0116] Particularly preferably, the volume of the container 50G is larger than the combined volume of the collection container 20C of the first cleaning device 20 and the collection container 30C of the second cleaning device 30, in particular by at least twice or three times. In this way, it is possible to accommodate the entire contents of both collection containers 20C, 30C of the cleaning devices 20, 30 in the container 50G.

[0117] The container 50G preferably has a volume of more than 1 l or 1.5 l, particularly preferably more than 2 l or 3 l.

[0118] The container 50G is fluidically connected via a first or lower supply line 10J to the first fluidic connection 40F, via a second or upper supply line 10K to the second fluidic connection 50F and / or via a particularly lateral suction line 10L to the working machine 50J and / or an outlet in the housing 50A.

[0119] In the illustrated embodiment, the lines 10J, 10K and 10L are arranged such that air can flow axially or from above and below into the container 50G and can flow radially or laterally out of the container 50G.

[0120] Preferably, the first supply line 10J opens axially from below and the second supply line 10K opens axially from above into the container 50G. This enables a particularly simple air flow and a particularly compact design of the base station 10. However, other arrangements are also conceivable, in particular in which the first supply line 10J is guided laterally past the container 50G in order to open into the second supply line 10K or, together with the second supply line 10K, into the container 50G, as in Fig. 1 shown.

[0121] The container 50G is preferably designed to accommodate the filter device 70.

[0122] The filter device 70 is preferably a (disposable) filter, in particular a (disposable) filter cartridge, which is preferably exchanged or replaced by a new filter or a new filter cartridge after use or when a certain fill level is reached.

[0123] Preferably, the container 50G is accessible or openable via the flap 10D, in particular to insert or remove the filter device 70. In contrast to the first embodiment, the flap 10D is preferably arranged on the front side 50C of the base station 10, in particular such that the container 50G can be opened from the front or on the front side 50C of the base station 10, and the filter device 70 can be replaced.

[0124] Fig. 2 shows the filter device 70 in the inserted state, in which the filter device 70 is fluidly connected to the lines 10J, 10K and 10L.

[0125] The filter device 70 has - at least in the inserted state - an elongated or cylindrical shape and / or a shape corresponding to the container 50G.

[0126] Preferably, the filter device 70 is arranged coaxially in the housing 50A. In particular, the main axis A of the base station 10 (also) forms a longitudinal axis of the filter device 70.

[0127] Preferably, the filter device 70 or its longitudinal axis is oriented at least substantially vertically when inserted. This allows for optimal use of the installation space of the base station 10.

[0128] The filter device 70 preferably has a first or lower connection part 70A, a second or upper connection part 70B, a filter element or medium 70C and / or a filter chamber 70D, preferably wherein the connection parts 70A, 70B delimit the filter chamber 70D axially and the filter element 70C delimits the filter chamber 70D radially.

[0129] The connecting parts 70A, 70B preferably each form an end face and / or an axial end of the preferably elongated or cylindrical filter device 70.

[0130] The filter element 70C is preferably arranged between the first connecting part 70A and the second connecting part 70B.

[0131] The connecting parts 70A, 70B are preferably each rigid and / or formed by a rigid, preferably plate- or disc-like, element.

[0132] The filter element 70C is preferably flexible and / or formed by a particularly flexible and / or multi-layer filter material or medium, such as a fabric, paper and / or a nonwoven fabric.

[0133] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter device 70, in particular the filter element 70C, is folded and / or designed as an extendable bellows. This makes it possible to reduce the transport size of the filter device 70.

[0134] The filter device 70 preferably has a first or lower connection opening 70E and a second or upper connection opening 70F, preferably wherein the connection openings 70E, 70F are arranged on different end sides of the filter device 70.

[0135] Preferably, the first connection opening 70E is arranged in the first connection part 70A and the second connection opening 70F is arranged in the second connection part 70B.

[0136] The arrangement of the connection openings 70E, 70F makes it possible to fill the filter device 70—especially simultaneously—from different sides or from above and below. This simplifies the air flow in the base station 10. In particular, no separate line is required that runs laterally next to the container 50G and guides air from bottom to top or vice versa. This enables a particularly compact design of the base station 10.

[0137] However, it is also possible for the filter device 70 to have only one connection opening 70E or 70F, as already explained in connection with the first embodiment.

[0138] The filter device 70 is preferably connected to the first fluidic connection 40F of the base station 10 via the first connection opening 70E or the first supply line 10J and to the second fluidic connection 50F of the base station 10 via the second connection opening 70F or the second supply line 10K.

[0139] In particular, air can be sucked into the filter chamber 70D via the first connection opening 70E or the first supply line 10J or from below and via the second connection opening 70F or the second supply line 10K or from above.

[0140] Optionally, the filter device 70 has a first or lower closure or non-return flap 70G and a second or upper closure or non-return flap 70H for retaining suction material, wherein the first non-return cap 70G is assigned to the first connection opening 70E and the second non-return cap 70H is assigned to the second connection opening 70F.

[0141] The connection openings 70E, 70F can be closed or opened by the non-return valves 70G, 70H. In particular, the connection openings 70E, 70F are (exclusively) actuated, in particular closed or opened, mechanically or by the air flow.

[0142] Preferably, the check valves 70G, 70H are each formed by at least one flexible / bendable element, such as a rubber flap, which bends in the direction of flow or releases the respective connection opening 70E or 70F only when air is sucked in via the corresponding connection opening 70E or 70F.

[0143] The filter chamber 70D is preferably divided into several, here two, filter chambers 70K, 70L.

[0144] Preferably, the filter device 70 has a partition wall 70J which is arranged in the filter space 70D and / or divides the filter space 70D into a first or lower filter chamber 70K and a second or upper filter chamber 70L.

[0145] The first connection opening 70E is preferably assigned to the first filter chamber 70K, and the second connection opening 70F to the second filter chamber 70L. Thus, the first connection opening 70E forms an inlet for the first filter chamber 70K, and the second connection opening 70F forms an inlet for the second filter chamber 70L.

[0146] The filter chambers 70K, 70L are preferably of the same size, but can also be of different sizes, preferably with the first filter chamber 70K being smaller than the second filter chamber 70L, as in Fig. 2 indicated.

[0147] Preferably, the partition 70J is airtight or impermeable. However, it is also possible for the partition 70J to be permeable or formed by a permeable material, in particular a filter material.

[0148] Preferably, the partition wall 70J is arranged at the level of the outlet of the container 50G in order to enable uniform suction of the filter chambers 70K, 70L.

[0149] By dividing the filter space 70D into the two filter chambers 70K, 70L, it is prevented that all of the suction material collects in the filter device 70 below or at the first connection opening 70E and thus impairs the air supply or blocks the opening of the first non-return valve 70G.

[0150] The filter device 70, in particular the first connecting part 70A and / or the second connecting part 70B, are or are preferably fastened / held in the container 50G in a form-fitting or force-fitting manner.

[0151] The base station 10, in particular the container 50G, has a holder 50K to hold the filter device 70 - in particular at the top and bottom - in the container 50G.

[0152] The base station 10, in particular the container 50G, preferably has a first or lower holding part 50L for the first connection part 70A and a second or upper holding part 50M for the second connection part 70B, preferably wherein the holding parts 50L, 50M form the holder 50K.

[0153] The first holding part 50L is preferably designed to hold the first connecting part 70A in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner or to fix it at the bottom. In the illustrated embodiment, the first holding part 50L is formed by one or more snap hooks that engage around the first connecting part 70A.

[0154] The second holding part 50M is preferably designed to hold the second connecting part 70B in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner or upwards. In the illustrated embodiment, the second holding part 50M is formed by a groove or a slot into which the second connecting part 70B is inserted / hung.

[0155] As already explained, the filter device 70 is replaceable or removable from the container 50G. In the following, Fig. 3A to 3C the insertion of the filter device 70 into the base station 10 is explained in more detail.

[0156] The filter device 70, in particular the filter space 70D or the filter chambers 70K, 70L, is or are reduced in size or compressed in the as-delivered state of the filter device 70 - preferably by folding the filter element 70C - preferably to less than 90% or 80%, particularly preferably to less than 60% or 40%, of the volume of the filter device 70, in particular the filter space 70D or the filter chambers 70K, 70L, in the inserted or (fully) expanded state of the filter device 70.

[0157] Fig. 3A shows the base station 10 with the flap 10D swung open or the container 50G opened and the filter device 70 in the delivery state or in the compressed state.

[0158] Preferably, the filter device 70 is first expanded or pulled apart in the base station 10 or in the container 50G. However, it is also possible in principle to expand the filter device 70 outside the base station 10 or the container 50G and to insert it in the expanded state into the base station 10 or the container 50G.

[0159] As in Fig. 3B As shown, the filter device 70 is preferably first fastened at the top or on the second holding part 50M, in particular pushed into the second holding part 50M, and (subsequently) pulled apart or unfolded.

[0160] In particular, first the second connecting part 70B is inserted or pushed into the holder 50K or the second holding part 50M and then the first connecting part 70A is pulled downwards or in the direction of the first holding part 50L.

[0161] However, it is also possible in principle to first fasten the filter device 70, in particular the first connecting part 70A, at the bottom or on the first holding part 50L and then to pull the second connecting part 70B upwards or in the direction of the second holding part 50M.

[0162] Fig. 3B shows the filter device 70 in the inserted but not yet fully expanded state. Fig. 3C shows the filter device 70 in the fully expanded state, in which the first connecting part 70A is attached to the first holding part 50L and the second connecting part 70B is attached to the second holding part 50M.

[0163] In a final step, the flap 10D is closed, preferably airtight or in such a way that air flows into the container 50G exclusively via the supply lines 10J, 10K when the working machine 50J is in operation.

[0164] As already explained, the cleaning devices 20, 30 are (automatically) emptied / vacuumed by the base station 10 simultaneously or according to a prioritization or one after the other, particularly preferably either simultaneously or according to a prioritization.

[0165] It is therefore preferred that in the connection position of the cleaning devices 20, 30 the air flow in the base station 10 can be changed, in particular in order to be able to vacuum either only one cleaning device 20 or 30 or both cleaning devices 20, 30 (simultaneously).

[0166] In the following we will return to the Fig. 2 Reference is made to describe in more detail the operation of the base station 10, in particular the emptying of the cleaning devices 20 and 30 by means of the base station 10.

[0167] In order to change the air flow in the base station 10, the base station 10 has the shut-off device 10E, preferably wherein the shut-off device 10E is designed as a shut-off flap and is arranged in one of the supply lines 10J or 10K.

[0168] At the Fig. 2 In the embodiment shown, the base station 10 has two shut-off devices 10E and 10M, in particular controlled or connected to the control unit 10F, preferably wherein the first shut-off device 10E is assigned to the first supply line 10J and the second shut-off device 10M is assigned to the second supply line 10K.

[0169] By means of the first shut-off device 10E, it is possible to control the flow in the first supply line 10J or to selectively open or close the first supply line 10J or to selectively establish or interrupt a fluidic connection between the filter space 70D, in particular the first filter chamber 70K, and the first cleaning device 20, in particular its collecting container 20C.

[0170] By means of the second shut-off device 10M, it is possible to control the flow in the second supply line 10K or to selectively open or close the second supply line 10K or to selectively establish or interrupt a fluidic connection between the filter space 70D, in particular the second filter chamber 70L, and the second cleaning device 30, in particular its collecting container 30C.

[0171] However, solutions are also possible in which only one shut-off device 10E or 10M is used to empty or vacuum the cleaning devices 20 or 30 simultaneously and / or sequentially. For example, the (first) shut-off device 10E can be designed as a 3 / 2-way or 3 / 3-way valve connected to both supply lines 10J, 10K and the inlet to the container 50G.

[0172] The control unit 10F is designed to control the shut-off devices 10E, 10M—in particular independently of one another—that is, to selectively close or open them. The shut-off devices 10E, 10M preferably each have a corresponding actuator (not shown) that is controlled by the control unit 10F.

[0173] The shut-off devices 10E, 10M or the supply lines 10J, 10K are preferably normally closed and / or are preferably only (automatically) activated or opened when the associated cleaning device 20 or 30 is connected to the base station 10 or has assumed the connection position. This prevents suction material from escaping from the base station 10 or the container 50G.

[0174] Preferably, the shut-off devices 10E, 10M are controlled or operated independently of one another. This makes it possible to open or close only one or both (simultaneously) shut-off devices 10E, 10M, or to empty / vacuum only one or both (simultaneously) cleaning devices 20, 30.

[0175] In particular, it is possible to first actuate or open a shut-off device 10E or 10M, for example the first shut-off device 10E, and then - in particular additionally or alternatively - another shut-off device 10E or 10M, for example the second shut-off device 10M, in particular in order to first empty / vacuum a cleaning device 20 or 30, for example the first cleaning device 20, and then - in particular additionally or alternatively - another cleaning device 20 or 30, for example the second cleaning device 30.

[0176] The suction process, i.e. the emptying / suctioning of the cleaning devices 20 or 30, is preferably started by opening the respective shut-off device 10E or 10M.

[0177] The working machine 50J is preferably activated or switched on (immediately) before, together with or (immediately) after the opening of the respective shut-off device 10E or 10M, in particular by means of the control device 10F.

[0178] The suction process of the cleaning devices 20 or 30 is preferably terminated by closing the respective shut-off device 10E or 10M.

[0179] The working machine 50J is preferably deactivated or switched off (immediately) before, together with or (immediately) after the closing of the respective shut-off device 10E or 10M.

[0180] The suction process, in particular the opening of the respective shut-off device 10E or 10M and / or the activation of the working machine 50J, can be started immediately or with a time delay, for example 10 seconds, after the cleaning devices 20, 30 have been connected (automatically).

[0181] The suction process, in particular the opening of the respective shut-off device 10E or 10M and / or activation of the working machine 50J, can also be carried out or started (automatically) depending on the fill level of the respective collection container 20C or 30C, in particular only when a predefined fill level of the respective collection container 20C or 30C is exceeded.

[0182] Preferably, the cleaning devices 20, 30 are equipped with appropriate sensors (not shown) to determine the fill level of the collection containers 20C and 30C, respectively.

[0183] It can therefore be provided that a cleaning device 20 or 30 is connected to the base station 10, for example in order to (electrically) charge the cleaning device 20 or 30, but is not vacuumed because the fill level of the respective collection container 20C or 30C has not yet reached or exceeded a predefined value and, for example, a (further) cleaning process with the cleaning device 20 or 30 is still possible.

[0184] Preferably, the suction process is carried out for a specific or predefined period of time, for example 10 or 20 seconds, or is terminated depending on the fill level of the respective collection container 20C or 30C, in particular after the fill level of the respective collection container 20C or 30C falls below a predefined fill level.

[0185] In particular, the respective shut-off devices 10E or 10M and / or the working machine 50J are (automatically) closed or deactivated after a specific or predefined period of time, for example 10 or 20 seconds, or depending on the fill level of the respective collecting container 20C or 30C, in particular after the fill level of the respective collecting container 20C or 30C falls below a predefined fill level.

[0186] For example, the first supply line 10J or the first shut-off device 10E is opened or the suction process is started as soon as the first cleaning device 20 is connected to the base station 10 or is in the connection position.

[0187] As soon as the first cleaning device 20, in particular the collection container 20C, is completely emptied, the first supply line 10J or the first shut-off device 10E is closed (automatically).

[0188] In the event that during the vacuuming process of a cleaning device 20 or 30 a further cleaning device 20 or 30, for example the second cleaning device 30, is connected to the base station 10, the second supply line 10K or the second shut-off device 10M is preferably additionally opened, in particular in order to vacuum both cleaning devices 20, 30 simultaneously.

[0189] In a particularly preferred method variant, the power, in particular the speed, of the working machine 50J is increased—at least temporarily—when both cleaning devices 20 and 30 are connected to the base station 10 or are being vacuumed simultaneously and / or both shut-off devices 10E, 10M are open. In this way, the cleaning devices 20, 30 can (always) be vacuumed evenly or with the same power per cleaning device 20, 30, regardless of whether only one vacuuming process is taking place or multiple vacuuming processes are taking place simultaneously.

[0190] Particularly preferably, the power, in particular the speed, of the working machine 50J is (again) reduced if a cleaning device 20 or 30 has been emptied before another cleaning device 20 or 30 and / or a shut-off device 10E or 10M is closed and another shut-off device 10E or 10M remains open.

[0191] However, it is also possible that the vacuuming process of a cleaning device 20 or 30, for example the first cleaning device 20, is (temporarily) stopped or interrupted when another cleaning device 20 or 30, for example the second cleaning device 30, is connected to the base station 10.

[0192] Particularly preferably, the first supply line 10J or the first shut-off device 10E is closed or the vacuuming process of the first cleaning device 20 is interrupted and (instead) the second supply line 10K or the second shut-off device 10M is opened or the vacuuming process of the second cleaning device 30 is started when the second cleaning device 30 is connected to the base station 20, in particular in order to exclusively or primarily vacuum the second cleaning device 30.

[0193] Only when the suction process of the second cleaning device 30 is completed or the second cleaning device 30 is completely emptied, the suction process of the first cleaning device 20 is started / continued or the first shut-off device 10E is (re)opened.

[0194] Consequently, according to a particularly preferred method variant, the second cleaning device 30 has priority over the first cleaning device 20, i.e., it is emptied and / or filled by the base station 10 with priority over the first cleaning device 20. Particularly preferably, the cleaning devices 20, 30 are emptied / vacuumed by the base station 10 according to a prioritization.

[0195] Most preferably, the emptying / vacuum extraction and / or filling of the first cleaning device 20 is only started or only (re)started when the second cleaning device 30 is removed from the base station 10 and / or is used by a user.

[0196] Preferably, the base station 10 has one or more sensors 10N, 10P to detect whether the first cleaning device 20 or the second cleaning device 30 is connected to the base station 10.

[0197] In the illustrated embodiment, the base station 10 has a first or lower sensor 10N and a second or upper sensor 10P, wherein the first sensor 10N is assigned to the base module 40 or the first cleaning device 20 and the second sensor 10P is assigned to the head module 50 or the second cleaning device 30.

[0198] By means of the first sensor 10N it is possible to detect whether the first cleaning device 20 is in the connection position, in particular below the base station 10, and / or can be fluidically coupled to the base station 10.

[0199] By means of the second sensor 10P, it is possible to detect whether the second cleaning device 30 is in the connection position, in particular is hung in the base station 10, and / or can be fluidically coupled to the base station 10.

[0200] The sensors 10N, 10P can be, for example, resistive, inductive, magnetic, capacitive, piezoelectric and / or optoelectronic sensors.

[0201] Additionally or alternatively, the electrical connections 40E or 50E can be used for the detection of the cleaning devices 20, 30 or for the sensors 10N, 10P.

[0202] As in Fig. 2 As indicated, the cleaning system 1 or the base station 10 can be coupled with other devices (in terms of data).

[0203] Preferably, the cleaning system 1 or the base station 10 is designed for data exchange or signal transmission with other devices.

[0204] Preferably, the cleaning system 1 is equipped with a mobile device 4, such as a tablet, smartphone or the like, and / or a central device 5 and / or can be connected (for data purposes).

[0205] A central device within the meaning of the present invention is preferably a computer, a server, or a server network. However, a central device can also be a virtual unit comprising several computers and / or servers and / or be implemented through so-called cloud computing.

[0206] Preferably, the mobile device 4 and / or the central device 5 are / is arranged spatially separated and / or spaced from the base station 10.

[0207] Preferably, a wired or wireless data connection can be established between the base station 10, the first cleaning device 20, the second cleaning device 30, the mobile device 4 and / or the central device 5, in particular in order to transmit a signal and / or information or to exchange it between the base station 10, the first cleaning device 20, the second cleaning device 30, the mobile device 4 and / or the central device 5.

[0208] The data exchange or signal transmission between the cleaning devices 20, 30 and the base station 10 can take place directly or indirectly, in particular via the mobile device 4 or the central device 5.

[0209] A signal in the sense of the present invention is preferably a means for transmitting information, a (modulated) wave, in particular in a conductor, a bit sequence, a packet in the information technology sense or the like.

[0210] Preferably, a signal within the meaning of the present invention is transmittable via a wireless or wired data connection. Particularly preferably, one or more pieces of information are associated with a signal and / or contained in the signal, which can be transmitted via the signal.

[0211] In order to enable data exchange or to transmit a signal between the base station 10, the first cleaning device 20, the second cleaning device 30, the mobile device 4 and / or the central device 5, the base station 10 preferably has a communication device 10Q, the first cleaning device 20 has a first communication device 20Q and / or the second cleaning device 30 has a second communication device 30Q.

[0212] The communication device 10Q or the communication devices 20Q, 30Q preferably each have a receiver for receiving and / or a transmitter for transmitting a signal. Particularly preferably, the communication device 10Q or the communication devices 20Q, 30Q have a radio interface, in particular a WPAN interface, a near-field communication interface, in particular an NFC interface, a WLAN interface, or another, particularly preferably wireless, interface.

[0213] Additionally or alternatively, the electrical connections 20B, 30B are used for the preferably wired data exchange between the base station 10, the first cleaning device 20 and / or the second cleaning device 30, in particular when the cleaning devices 20, 30 are in the connection position.

[0214] As already explained, the suction process or emptying of the cleaning devices 20, 30 is preferably started / carried out automatically or independently, in particular as soon as the cleaning devices 20, 30 are in the connection position or are detected by the sensors 10N, 10P.

[0215] By means of the data exchange, however, it is also possible for the base station 10, in particular the vacuuming process or the emptying of the cleaning devices 20, 30, to be controlled, in particular started and / or ended, by means of the mobile device 4, the central device 5 and / or a cleaning device 20 or 30.

[0216] For example, an (existing) control element of a cleaning device 20 or 30, such as the on / off switch, can be used to start the vacuuming process of the cleaning device 20 or 30. Thus, no separate control element needs to be provided for starting the vacuuming process on the cleaning device 20 or 30.

[0217] Preferably, the first cleaning device 20, in particular the communication device 20Q, and / or the second cleaning device 30, in particular the communication device 30Q, transmits information or a status signal with information, in particular about the cleaning process carried out, the fill level of the respective collection container 20C or 30C and / or the charge state of the respective accumulator 20A or 30A to the base station 10, in particular the communication device 10Q, the mobile device 4 and / or the central device 5, in particular in order to control, start or end the vacuuming process and / or charging process by means of the base station 10.

[0218] Data transmission preferably occurs when the cleaning devices 20, 30 are connected to the base station 10 and / or are in use. However, it is also possible for data transmission between the base station 10 and the cleaning devices 20, 30 to occur continuously or at intervals.

[0219] The base station 10 preferably has a data processing device 10R, preferably wherein the data processing device 10R is formed by a computer and / or has at least one (central) processor and / or a working memory.

[0220] The data processing device 10R is preferably electrically connected to the communication device 10Q and the control unit 10F and / or spatially spaced from the communication device 10Q and the control unit 10F. However, the data processing device 10R can also be integrated into the communication device 10Q or the control unit 10F.

[0221] Preferably, the data processing device 10R is designed to evaluate the signals or information received by means of the communication device 10Q and / or to transmit them as input values ​​to the control unit 10F.

[0222] In particular, the status signal transmitted by the cleaning devices 20, 30 is evaluated in order to - for example, depending on the fill level - vacuum the first cleaning device 20 and / or the second cleaning device 30, i.e. to open the first shut-off device 10E and / or the second shut-off device 10M and / or to activate the work machine 50J.

[0223] However, it is also possible for the mobile device 4 and / or the central device 5 to control / control the base station 10, in particular the shut-off devices 10E, 10M and / or the work machine 50J, depending on the received status signal.

[0224] Preferably, the base station 10, in particular the data processing device 10R, has a memory, such as a hard disk, an EPROM or the like, in which one or more pieces of information, in particular relating to the prioritization of the cleaning devices 20, 30, are or can be stored.

[0225] However, it is also possible that the mobile device 4 and / or the central device 5 contains or stores one or more pieces of information on the prioritization of the cleaning devices 20 and 30, respectively.

[0226] Preferably, the data processing device 10R, the mobile device 4, and / or the central device 5 access the memory to control the extraction process based on the information stored therein. Particularly preferably, the data processing device 10R, the mobile device 4, and / or the central device 5 can modify the data stored in the memory, in particular, change the prioritization.

[0227] Preferably, the base station 10 is operated and / or configured using the mobile device 4. In particular, it is possible to change the prioritization of the cleaning devices 20, 30 and / or to configure a vacuuming process using the mobile device 4, in particular to change the (automatic) start, the length, and / or the (automatic) end of a vacuuming process, and / or to start or end a vacuuming process.

[0228] Alternatively or additionally, the base station 10 may have an input device, such as a touch-sensitive screen (not shown), which enables a user to configure the base station 10, in particular to change the prioritization, the (automatic) start, the length and / or the (automatic) end of a vacuuming process, and / or to start or end a vacuuming process.

[0229] The term "prioritization" in the sense of the present invention is preferably to be understood as a fixed and / or (electronically) stored priority / ranking of the cleaning devices 20 or 30 when waiting by means of the base station 10.

[0230] Preferably, the prioritization is or contains information assigned to the cleaning devices 20 or 30, preferably stored (electronically) in the mobile device 4, the central device 5 and / or the base station 10, which determines the sequence / order of the maintenance and / or by means of which it is determined which cleaning device 20 or 30 is emptied and / or filled with priority or with secondary priority.

[0231] In particular, by means of the prioritization, the shut-off devices 10E, 10M are controlled in such a way that the prioritized or priority cleaning device 20 or 30 is fluidically connected to the base station 10, in particular the filter device 70, and / or is sucked out by the base station 10 before the subordinate cleaning device 20 or 30.

[0232] Individual aspects, features and method steps of the present invention can be implemented independently, but also in any combination and / or order.

[0233] Further aspects, which can be implemented independently or in any combination, are listed below: 1. Method for operating a cleaning system (1) with a plurality of mobile cleaning devices (20, 30) and a base station (10) for the cleaning devices (20, 30), preferably wherein the base station (10) is designed according to one of aspects 8 to 11, wherein the cleaning devices (20, 30) are emptied and / or filled with a cleaning agent by the base station (10) simultaneously or according to a prioritization. 2. Method according to aspect 1, wherein the cleaning devices (20, 30) are optionally emptied or filled simultaneously or one after the other. 3. Method according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein a first cleaning device (20) is emptied and / or filled subordinately and / or a second cleaning device (30) is emptied and / or filled primarily by means of the base station (10). 4. Method according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein emptying and / or filling of a first cleaning device (20) is interrupted when a second cleaning device (30) is connected to the base station (10). 5.Method according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein emptying and / or filling of a first cleaning device (20) is started or continued when a second cleaning device (30) has been completely emptied or filled and / or is in use. 6. Method according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein emptying and / or filling of the cleaning devices (20, 30) is started or ended depending on the fill level of the cleaning devices (20, 30). 7. Method according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein emptying and / or filling of a first cleaning device (20) is controlled by means of a second cleaning device (30) and / or a mobile device (4). 8.Base station (10) for fluidically connecting a plurality of mobile cleaning devices (20, 30), wherein the base station (10) is designed for simultaneously emptying the cleaning devices (20, 30) and / or for simultaneously filling the cleaning devices (20, 30) with a cleaning agent, and / or wherein the base station (10) has a filter device (70) according to one of aspects 12 to 15. 9. Base station according to aspect 8, wherein the base station (10) has a base module (40) and a head module (50) fluidically connected to the base module (40), wherein the base module (40) has a fluidic, in particular pneumatic, connection (40F) for a first cleaning device (20) and / or the head module (50) has a fluidic, in particular pneumatic, connection (50F) for a second cleaning device (30). 10.Base station according to aspect 8 or 9, wherein the base station (10) has a working machine (50J), in particular a blower and / or a pump, for fluid exchange with the cleaning devices (20, 30). 11. Base station according to aspect 10, wherein the base station (10) has at least one shut-off device (10E, 10M) for fluidically connecting the working machine (50J) selectively to one or more cleaning devices (20, 30). 12. Filter device (70) for a base station (10) according to one of aspects 8 to 11, wherein the filter device (70) has a plurality of connection openings (70E, 70F) for filling the filter device (70). 13. Filter device according to aspect 12, wherein the filter device (70) has a plurality of check valves (70G, 70H), wherein each connection opening (70E, 70F) is assigned a check valve (70G, 70H). 14.The filter device according to aspect 12 or 13, wherein the connection openings (70E, 70F) are arranged on different sides of the filter device (70). 15. The filter device according to any one of aspects 12 to 14, wherein the filter device (70) has a partition wall (70J) that divides the filter device (70) into two chambers (70K, 70L), each chamber (70K, 70L) having one of the connection openings (70E, 70F). List of reference symbols:

[0234] 1 cleaning system 40B Footrest 2 Wall 40C back wall 3 Floor 40D Top 4 mobile device 40E electrical connection 5 Central facility 40F fluidic connection 10 Base station 40G container 10A power supply 40H filter 10B Power connection 40J Work machine 10C bracket 50 Head module 10D flap 50A Housing 10E (first) shut-off device 50C front 10F control unit 50E electrical connection 10J first supply line 50F fluidic connection 10K second supply line 50G container 10L Suction line 50H filter 10M second shut-off device 50J Work machine 10N first sensor 50K bracket 10P second sensor 50L first holding part 10Q Communication device 50M second holding part 10R Data processing facility 70 Filter device 20 first cleaning device 70A first connecting part 20A accumulator 70B second connecting part 20B electrical connection 70C filter element 20C Collection container 70D filter room 20Q first communication device 70E first connection opening 30 second cleaning device 70F second connection opening 30A accumulator 70G first check valve 30B electrical connection 70H second check valve 30C Collection container 70J partition 30Q second communication device 70K first filter chamber 70L second filter chamber 40 Floor module 40A Recording A Main axis

Claims

1. Method for operating a cleaning system (1) with a plurality of mobile cleaning devices (20, 30) and a base station (10) for the cleaning devices (20, 30), characterized in that the cleaning devices (20, 30) are emptied and / or filled with a cleaning agent by the base station (10) according to a prioritization, wherein emptying and / or filling of a first cleaning device (20) is started or continued when a second cleaning device (30) has been completely emptied and / or filled and / or is in use.

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the cleaning devices (20, 30) are emptied and / or filled one after the other.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a first cleaning device (20) is emptied and / or filled by means of the base station (10) subordinated and / or a second cleaning device (30) is emptied and / or filled by means of the base station (10) with priority.

4. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base station (10) has a shut-off apparatus (10E) to control the air flow, wherein by means of the shut-off apparatus (10E) selectively the first cleaning device (20) or the second cleaning device (30) is connectable to a container (50G) of the base station (10).

5. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base station (10) has two shut-off devices (10E, 10M) to change the air flow in the base station (10), preferably wherein the shut-off devices (10E, 10M) are controlled independently of each other.

6. Method according to claim 5, characterized in that the shut-off devices (10E, 10M) are automatically closed as a function of the filling level of the collecting containers (20C, 30C) of the cleaning devices (20, 30).

7. Method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that first one shut-off apparatus (10E, 10M) and subsequently another shut-off apparatus (10E, 10M) is actuated, to first empty / suck out one cleaning device (20, 30) and subsequently another cleaning device (20, 30).

8. Method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the first shut-off apparatus (10E) is closed and / or the suction process of the first cleaning device (20) is interrupted and instead the second shut-off apparatus (10M) is opened and / or the suction process of the second cleaning device (30) is started, when the second cleaning device (30) is connected to the base station (20) to exclusively and / or prioritized suck out the second cleaning device (30).

9. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that the suction process of the first cleaning device (20) is started / continued and / or the first shut-off apparatus (10E) is opened only when the suction process of the second cleaning device (30) is completed and / or the second cleaning device (30) is completely emptied.

10. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that emptying and / or filling of the cleaning devices (20, 30) is started or ended depending on the filling level of the cleaning devices (20, 30).

11. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that emptying and / or filling of a first cleaning device (20) is controlled by means of a second cleaning device (30) and / or a mobile device (4).

12. Base station (10) for fluidically connecting of a plurality of mobile cleaning devices (20, 30), characterized in that the base station (10) is configured for emptying the cleaning devices (20, 30) and / or for filling the cleaning devices (20, 30) with a cleaning agent according to an electronically saved prioritization, and in that the base station (10) is configured to start emptying and / or filling of a first cleaning device (20) only when a second cleaning device (30) is completely emptied and / or filled or is used by a user.

13. Base station according to claim 12, characterized in that the base station (10) has a bottom module (40) and a head module (50) fluidically connected to the bottom module (40), the bottom module (40) having a fluidic, in particular pneumatic, connection (40F) for a first cleaning device (20) and / or the head module (50) having a fluidic, in particular pneumatic, connection (50F) for a second cleaning device (30).

14. Base station according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the base station (10) has a working machine (50J), in particular a blower and / or a pump, for fluid exchange with the cleaning devices (20, 30), wherein the base station (10) has at least one shut-off apparatus (10E, 10M) for fluidically connecting the working machine (50J) selectively to one or more cleaning devices (20, 30).