SUCTION DEVICE WITH LIQUID LEVEL PROBES

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a suction device comprising a suction material container with an interior space, and a measuring device for a liquid level in the suction material container.

[0002] DE 10 2004 053 639 A1 discloses a measuring device consisting of one or more cascade-connected measuring probes made of two or more rigid or flexible plates arranged flat relative to one another.

[0003] DE 20 2016 105 301 U1 discloses a floor cleaning device with a dirty water tank.

[0004] TW 201318592 A1 discloses a suction device.

[0005] US 2011 / 0119950 A1 discloses a liquid aspirator.

[0006] US 2009 / 0266442 A1 discloses a device for determining a filling level of a container.

[0007] US 2002 / 0042965 A1 discloses a vacuum cleaner with a humidity sensor.

[0008] DE 32 05 831 A1 discloses a vacuum liquid suction device with a heated electronic temperature sensor.

[0009] DE 10 2013 008 628 A1 discloses a vacuum cleaner with a fill level detection device for detecting a fill level of a dirt substance in a dirt collection chamber, wherein the fill level detection device has at least one capacitive sensor with at least one electrically chargeable measuring electrode assigned to the dirt collection chamber, wherein an electrical capacitance of the at least one capacitive sensor can be changed by the dirt substance in the dirt collection chamber.

[0010] The invention is based on the object of providing a suction device of the type mentioned above in which a liquid level can be detected in a simple manner.

[0011] This object is achieved according to the invention in the suction device mentioned at the outset in that the measuring device has at least a first flexurally elastic element and a second flexurally elastic element, wherein the second flexurally elastic element is spaced apart from the first flexurally elastic element, that the first flexurally elastic element and the second flexurally elastic element protrude into the interior of the suction material container and that the first flexurally elastic element is held suspended at a first fixing point and a second fixing point and / or the second flexurally elastic element is held suspended at a first fixing point and a second fixing point.

[0012] For example, a voltage drop between the first flexible element and the second flexible element can be used to detect whether there is liquid between the first flexible element and / or the second flexible element.

[0013] Due to the flexibility, the risk of damage to a corresponding probe device of the measuring device with the first flexible elastic element and the second flexible elastic element is reduced.

[0014] A flexible design of the first flexible element and the second flexible element can be used to achieve a self-cleaning effect. When the corresponding flexible element is deflected and allowed to snap back to its original position, incrustations and the like can be removed.

[0015] A probe assembly with flexible elements can be designed with minimal space requirements. Furthermore, the probe assembly has only minimal impact on the air flow during suction operation, for example.

[0016] It is advantageous if the first flexurally elastic element and / or the second flexurally elastic element are movable and have an initial position, wherein upon deflection from the initial position, the first flexurally elastic element and / or the second flexurally elastic element automatically return to the initial position, wherein, in particular, the first flexurally elastic element and / or the second flexurally elastic element are arranged and / or configured to be resilient. This allows an automatic self-cleaning effect to be achieved in a simple manner.

[0017] In particular, the first flexible element and / or the second flexible element are designed as linear elements, particularly in the shape of a rope, wire, or thread. This results in a small space requirement. The liquid level can be reliably determined, particularly with respect to a threshold value. The air flow during suction operation is minimally influenced by the flexible elements.

[0018] The first flexible element is suspended from a first fixing point and a second fixing point, and / or the second flexible element is suspended from a first fixing point and a second fixing point. This allows a gap to be formed through which air can flow. The air flow during suction operation is thus only minimally influenced by the flexible elements.

[0019] In particular, it is advantageous if the first flexible element hangs freely between its first fixation point and its second fixation point, and / or if the second flexible element hangs freely between its first fixation point and its second fixation point. This allows the flexible elements to be easily positioned on the suction device.

[0020] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the first flexible element is curved between the first fixation point and the second fixation point and / or the second flexible element is curved between the (its) first fixation point and the (its) second fixation point. This allows a relatively large measuring range to be achieved. A free space can be provided through which air can flow. This minimally influences the suction flow through the flexible elements. The risk of damage to the flexible elements can be kept low.

[0021] In particular, the distance between the first fixation point and the second fixation point is at least 2 cm, in particular at least 4 cm, in particular at least 6 cm, in particular at least 8 cm, in particular at least 10 cm, in particular at least 12 cm, in particular at least 14 cm, and in particular at least 16 cm. This allows for reliable liquid level determination, in particular with respect to a threshold value.

[0022] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: a distance direction between the first fixing point and the second fixing point is oriented transversely to a height direction of the suction device (and, for example, transversely or parallel to a wheel axis); the distance direction is oriented transversely to a wheel axis of a wheel device; the distance direction is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the suction device; the distance direction is oriented parallel to a longer side of the suction device; This makes it easy to determine the liquid level in the suction container.

[0023] It is also advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the first fixing point is located in the region of a first end of the first flexurally elastic element and / or the second flexurally elastic element; the second fixing point is located in the region of a second end of the first flexurally elastic element and / or the second flexurally elastic element.

[0024] This makes it easy to create a probe device and fix it to the suction device.

[0025] In particular, it is provided that the first flexurally elastic element and the second flexurally elastic element are spaced apart from one another in a direction that is transverse to a vertical direction of the suction device and / or parallel to a wheel axis of a wheel device and / or perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the suction device. This allows for a simple liquid level determination.

[0026] In one embodiment, a suction head is provided, which is detachably mounted on the suction container. This allows easier access to the suction container for emptying and cleaning.

[0027] It is advantageous if the first flexible element and / or the second flexible element are attached to the suction head. This allows for a permanent electrical connection, for example, to an evaluation device. This also makes it possible to automatically deflect the flexible elements when the suction head is removed, thus enabling a self-cleaning effect.

[0028] However, it is also possible for the first flexible element and / or the second flexible element to be attached to the suction container. In principle, it is also possible for one flexible element to be attached to the suction head and the other flexible element to be attached to the suction container.

[0029] In one embodiment, the suction head has a support surface which is assigned a support plane, wherein the suction head can be placed over the support surface when it is separated from the suction material container, and wherein the first flexurally elastic element and / or the second flexurally elastic element lie on the support plane or protrude beyond it. When the suction head is placed upright when it is removed from the suction material container, a deflection of a flexurally elastic element or at least contact with a surface can be achieved. This allows a deflection or mechanical contact to be achieved in order to carry out a self-cleaning effect. If, for example, the suction head is lifted during a deflection, a corresponding flexurally elastic element can snap back and incrustations can thus be loosened, for example.

[0030] It is advantageous if the first flexurally elastic element and / or the second flexurally elastic element are oriented at an acute angle (in an initial position) to a vertical axis of the suction device, whereby a distance between the first flexurally elastic element and the second flexurally elastic element decreases away from a fixation point. This provides an insertion aid. If, for example, the flexurally elastic elements are arranged on the suction head, then the latter can be placed more easily onto the suction material container. This can also be achieved if the flexurally elastic elements protrude beyond a mounting plane of the suction head, so that they bend from a side wall to an inner side.

[0031] Advantageously, the first flexible element and the second flexible element are designed as electrical conductors. This allows a voltage to be applied between them. A voltage change can be detected, particularly when a liquid medium passes between the first flexible element and the second flexible element.

[0032] In one embodiment, the measuring device comprises an application device that applies an application signal to the first flexurally elastic element and the second flexurally elastic element. The measuring device comprises a detection device that detects a response signal to the application signal. The response signal is dependent on the medium between the first flexurally elastic element and the second flexurally elastic element. The response signal contains information about the liquid level.

[0033] In one embodiment, the application signal is a voltage signal for a voltage applied between the first flexurally elastic element and the second flexurally elastic element, and the response signal is a voltage signal. If a voltage is applied to the flexurally elastic elements and there is air between them, then no current flows. If there is liquid between the flexurally elastic elements, then a current can flow and, for example, a short-circuit current can flow. This reduces a voltage and this voltage change is detectable. From the voltage change, it can be determined whether a threshold value for a liquid level has been reached and, in particular, whether the liquid level has reached the probe device with the flexurally elastic elements.

[0034] It is advantageous if the measuring device is connected to a control device with a signal effect, with at least one of the following: When a certain liquid level is reached, the control device switches off suction operation; When a certain liquid level is reached, an indication is given; When a certain liquid level is reached, suction operation is blocked.

[0035] This prevents the vacuum cleaner from flooding by shutting it down in a timely manner or preventing it from being restarted. A visual and / or acoustic indicator advantageously alerts the operator that the suction container needs to be emptied.

[0036] The vacuum cleaner is designed, for example, as a stand-alone device and, in particular, as a wet / dry vacuum cleaner. This results in effective suction operation.

[0037] The following description of preferred embodiments, in conjunction with the drawings, serves to further explain the invention. They show: Figure 1 is a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a suction device according to the invention; Figure 2 is a sectional view along the line 2-2 according to Figure 1 ; Figure 3 an enlarged view of area A according to Figure 1 ; Figure 4 a sectional view along the line 4-4 according to Figure 3 ; Figure 5 a sectional view along the line 5-5 according to Figure 3 ; Figure 6 a sectional view along the line 6-6 according to Figure 3 ; Figure 7 a sectional view along the line 7-7 according to Figure 3 ; Figure 8 an enlarged view of area B according to Figure 3 ; Figure 9 an enlarged view of the area C according to Figure 3 ; Figure 10 shows an embodiment of a channel piece in plan view; Figure 11 shows a sectional view along the line 11-11 according to Figure 10; Figure 12 a perspective view of the channel section according to Figure 10 ; Figure 13 a further sectional view of the suction device according to Figure 1 ; Figure 14 an enlarged view of the area D according to Figure 13 ; Figure 15 a sectional view along the line 15-15 according to Figure 13 ; Figure 16 an enlarged view of the area E according to Figure 15 ; Figure 17 a similar representation as in Figure 16 in a variant; and Figure 18 schematically shows a measuring device for determining a liquid level.

[0038] An embodiment of a vacuum cleaner according to the invention, which is shown in the figures and designated by 20, is designed as a stand-alone vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaner 20 is designed, in particular, as a wet / dry vacuum cleaner capable of sucking up liquids and dust.

[0039] The suction device 20 comprises a suction material container 22. The suction material container 22 has a base 24 and a wall 26. The wall 26 and the base 24 define an interior space 28. The interior space 28 can accommodate suction material. It is also possible for a suction material bag to be positioned in the interior space 28 (for dry vacuuming operation).

[0040] In one embodiment, the suction material container 22 and thus the suction device 20 are designed to be mobile. A wheel device 30 is arranged on the suction material container 22. A wheel axle 32 is in Figure 1 oriented transversely to the drawing plane.

[0041] A steerable roller 34 is positioned on the suction material container 22 at a distance from the wheel device 30, or several steerable rollers 34 are positioned.

[0042] A suction head 36 is located on the suction material container 22. The suction head 36 is removable from the suction material container 22 to allow access to the interior 28, in particular to be able to empty and clean the interior 28.

[0043] A fixing device 38 is provided, by means of which the suction head 36 can be fixed to the suction material container 22.

[0044] The suction device 20 has a vertical axis 40 extending from the suction material container 22 to the suction head 36. The vertical axis 40 is transverse and, in particular, perpendicular to the wheel axis 32.

[0045] If the suction device 20 is placed on a flat base 42, then this height axis is perpendicular to this base 42.

[0046] A suction connection 44 is assigned to the suction material container 22. In one embodiment, the suction connection 44 is positioned on the suction head 36.

[0047] A suction hose 46 can be connected to the suction connection 44.

[0048] A pipe element 46, which is in particular curved, leads from the suction connection 44 into the interior space 28. The pipe element 46 has a nozzle 48 which projects into the interior space 28.

[0049] It is also possible that the suction connection 44 is arranged directly on the suction material container 22.

[0050] If a suction bag is used, a corresponding opening connection of the suction bag can be pushed onto the nozzle 48.

[0051] The suction device 20 comprises a suction unit 50 for generating a suction flow. This suction flow acts on the interior 28 of the suction material container 22. Suction can be achieved via this suction flow. The suction flow is present at the suction connection 44. Figure 1 it is indicated by a double arrow.

[0052] The suction device 20 has a filter device 52. The filter device 52 is removably arranged, for example, on the suction head 36.

[0053] The filter device 52 has a clean side 54 and a dirty side 56. The dirty side 56 faces the interior 28 of the suction material container 22.

[0054] The suction flow flows through the filter device 52 and is cleaned by the filter device 52. Starting from the clean side 54 of the filter device 52, the suction flow is not contaminated.

[0055] A cleaning device 58 for the filter device 52 is arranged on the suction head 36. This allows the filter device 52 to be cleaned. For example, the cleaning device 58 generates air blasts that cause dirt particles adhering to the filter device 52 to fall into the interior 28 of the suction material container 22.

[0056] The suction unit device 50 comprises a blower 60 with a blower motor 62. The blower 60 has an impeller 64 which is driven in rotation by the blower motor 62.

[0057] The blower motor 62 has a motor axis 66 which is coaxial with a rotation axis for the impeller 64.

[0058] In one embodiment, the motor axis 66 is oriented at an acute angle 68 to the height axis 40.

[0059] The acute angle 68 is approximately 65° in one embodiment.

[0060] It is also possible in principle that the motor axis 66 is oriented parallel to the height axis 40, for example.

[0061] The suction device 20 has a process air guide device, designated as a whole by 70. This process air guide device 70 is arranged on the suction head 36. Process air is guided to the suction head 36 via this device and discharged as process air exhaust air. This guided process air is air purified by the filter device 52. During wet operation of the suction device 20, it can generally be contaminated with liquid.

[0062] A fan holder 72 is arranged on the suction head 36. This fan holder 72 forms a base plate for securing the fan motor 62.

[0063] In one embodiment, the blower motor 62 is integrated into the blower 60; the blower motor 62 and the blower 60 in particular have a common housing 74 in which motor elements such as the stator and rotor are arranged, and in which the impeller 64 is arranged.

[0064] In this sense, the blower holder 72 then holds the blower 60 with the blower motor 62.

[0065] A receptacle 76 for the blower 60 / the blower motor 62 is arranged or formed on the suction head 36.

[0066] The process air guide device 70 has one or more channels 78 which lead from the clean side 54 of the filter device 52 to the blower 60.

[0067] A duct piece 80 is arranged on the fan holder 72 and the fan 60 / fan motor 62. This duct piece 80 has a duct 82, which is connected to the exhaust air side of the fan. Process air exhaust can be discharged to the environment of the suction device 20 via this duct 82. Furthermore, the duct piece 80 is arranged and configured such that it is positioned on the inlet side with respect to the fan 60. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0068] The duct piece 80 is formed in one piece or in one part. It is particularly designed such that it is a unit that can be handled as a whole during the manufacture of the suction device 20 and, in particular, can be fixed as a whole to the suction head 36. One function of the duct piece 80 is to provide the duct 82 of the guide device 70 for process air for discharging exhaust air. The duct piece 80 also has a sealing function and a bearing function. The material for the duct piece 80 is selected accordingly. In particular, the duct piece is made of a single material.

[0069] In one embodiment, the channel piece is made of a vulcanized rubber material such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene rubber).

[0070] In another embodiment, the channel piece 80 is made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

[0071] The duct piece 80 is arranged on the fan holder 72. It is also arranged on the fan 60 / the fan motor 62. Furthermore, a hood 84, which is associated with the fan motor 62, is arranged on the duct piece 80.

[0072] The channel section 80 has a path region 86, along which the channel 82 is formed. This path region 86 has a wall 88 that delimits the channel 82 to the outside, away from the blower 60 / the blower motor 62. The channel section 80 is open opposite the wall 88. A further wall 90 for closing the channel 82 is formed by the blower 60 / the blower motor 62 and thereby by the housing 74.

[0073] The path region 86 has a path around an axis that is coaxial with the motor axis 66. This means that a corresponding path of the path region 86 can be represented by polar coordinates, with the motor axis 66 forming the pole. The corresponding path can be represented by the distance from the pole (from the motor axis 66) and a polar angle.

[0074] For example, the track in track area 86 is circular.

[0075] In one embodiment (compare for example the Figure 6 ), the path of the wall 88, for example, is spiral-shaped. The underlying spiral is, for example, an Archimedean spiral or a logarithmic spiral. The path region 86 is then designed, in particular, as a volute.

[0076] In particular, it is provided that a diameter 92 of the channel 82 (compare Figure 6) continuously widens towards an exit 94 of the channel section 80.

[0077] In particular, the channel 82 is circular in cross-section and the outlet 94 has a circular cross-section (see, for example, also Figure 12 ).

[0078] The channel section 80 has (compare the Figures 10 to 12 ) a first opening 96 and a second opening 100 spaced apart in the axial direction 98. The axial direction 98 is coaxial with the motor axis 66.

[0079] The first opening 96 and the second opening 100 are parallel to each other. They are oriented transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the axial direction 98.

[0080] The first opening 96 and the second opening 100 are each bounded on the outside by the wall 88. The duct section 80 is open on the inside. This allows for easy connection to the blower 60.

[0081] The channel piece 80 has a first portion 102. The first portion 102 surrounds the first opening 96 and forms a wall for the first opening 96.

[0082] The channel piece 80 further has a second portion 104. The second portion 104 surrounds the second opening 100 and forms a wall for the second opening 100.

[0083] A third portion 106 of the channel section 80 is arranged between the first portion 102 and the second portion 104. This third portion 106 forms the wall 88 as the outer wall for the channel 82.

[0084] The first sub-area 102 is supported by a first side 108 (compare for example the Figures 8 , 9) on the fan holder 72. The fan 60 / fan motor 62 is supported on a second side 110 of the first sub-region 102 opposite the first side 108. The first sub-region 102 is thus positioned between the fan 60 / fan motor 62 and the fan holder 72.

[0085] The duct piece 80 forms a first sealing device over the first portion 102. This seals the blower motor 62 / the blower 60 from the duct 82.

[0086] The first opening 96, which is formed by the first partial region 102, is designed as a connection or receives a connection via which the channel 82 is connected to the blower 60 on the inlet side with respect to process air.

[0087] The first portion 102 of the duct piece 80 also provides a floating mounting of the blower 60 / the blower motor 62 on the blower holder 72.

[0088] The first opening 96 has a first area 112, which provides for the connection of the channel 82 to the blower 60.

[0089] The first opening 96 further has a second region 114, on which the second side 110 lies, and which adjoins the first region 112 in the axial direction 98.

[0090] The second region 114 has a larger diameter than the first region 112.

[0091] A support surface 116 is formed on the second side 110, against which the blower 60 / the blower motor 62 is supported. The support surface 116 has a first contact surface 118 and a second surface 120. The first contact surface 118 serves to axially support the blower 60 / the blower motor 62 with respect to the axial direction 98. The second contact surface 120 also serves to radially support the blower 60 / the blower motor 62 in a radial direction transverse to the axial direction 98. The first contact surface 118 and the second contact surface 120 merge continuously into one another. The corresponding support surface, which is formed by the first contact surface 118 and the second contact surface 120, is annular.

[0092] The blower 60 / blower motor 62 is positioned and held at the second area 114.

[0093] The blower 60 / blower motor 62 with the hood 84 is positioned in the first opening 96.

[0094] On its outer side, the first partial area 102 has a shoulder 122.

[0095] The receptacle 76 in the suction head 36 has a (counter) shoulder 124 adapted to the shoulder 22, against which the shoulder 122 of the channel piece 80 rests.

[0096] This blocks axial and radial displacement of the channel piece 80 relative to the suction head 36.

[0097] The counter-step 124 forms a second receptacle for the channel piece 80 on the suction head 36.

[0098] The second partial region 104 has a first web 126 which extends substantially parallel to the axial direction 98 and points in the direction of the second partial region 104.

[0099] The housing 74 has a groove 128. The first web 126 is immersed in this annular groove 128.

[0100] On an inner side 129 of the channel piece 80, a receptacle 130, which is, for example, a groove, is formed on the channel piece 80. This receptacle 130 is formed between the first partial region 102 and the third partial region 106.

[0101] A wall region 132 of the housing 74 of the blower 60 / the blower motor 62 is immersed in this receptacle 130, this wall region 132 delimiting the groove 128.

[0102] A wall region 134 of the hood 84 is also immersed in the groove 128, with the first web 126 lying between the wall region 134 of the hood 84 and the wall region 132 of the blower 60 / the blower motor 62.

[0103] The first web 126 and in particular the second portion 104 forms a fluid seal between the hood 84 and the blower 60 / the blower motor 62.

[0104] It is also possible for the hood 84 to be mounted floatingly on the blower 60 / the blower motor 62 via the second portion 104 of the duct piece 80.

[0105] A second axial sealing device is formed by the channel piece 80 over the second partial area 104, which ensures an airtight seal between the hood 84 and the housing 74.

[0106] The hood 84 is dome-shaped. It has an opening 136, particularly coaxial with the motor axis 66 (see Figure 4 ).

[0107] A fan wheel 140 is arranged on a shaft 138 of the blower motor 62 and is associated with the opening 136. The fan wheel 140 is, in particular, spaced apart from the impeller 64. When the shaft 138 rotates, the fan wheel 140 rotates about the same axis of rotation as the impeller 64, i.e., an axis coaxial with the motor axis 66. Cooling air can thus be drawn in through the opening 136.

[0108] The opening 136 is in corresponding connection with a connection on the suction head 36, through which cooling air can be sucked in.

[0109] The hood 84 surrounds a partial area of ​​the blower motor 62. Between it and this partial area, one or more channels 142 of an air cooling device for the blower motor 62 are formed.

[0110] Cooling air sucked in through the opening 136 can flow in the channel(s) 142 and thereby flow around a corresponding housing area 144 of the blower motor 62.

[0111] An outlet 146 is arranged on the hood 84, to which a pipe 148 is connected, which leads to an outlet 51 for cooling air on the suction head 36 (compare Figure 2 ; in Figure 2 the direction of cooling air is indicated by a double arrow in broken lines).

[0112] Furthermore, a second web 152 or a plurality of second webs 152 are arranged on the second partial region 104 (compare the Figures 8 , 10, 12 ). These are located on an upper side of the channel piece 80 and point upwards away from the second partial area 104.

[0113] In particular, the second web(s) 152 are aligned at least approximately parallel to the axial direction 98.

[0114] The receptacle 76 on the suction head 36 is a first receptacle 154 (compare Figure 8 ) into which the second web(s) 152 are at least partially immersed.

[0115] On the second portion 104 of the channel piece 80, one or more tabs 156 (compare Figure 10 ). A corresponding tab 156 has an opening 158 (compare Figure 7 ). A counter element 160 is arranged on the suction head, associated with the blower holder 72. This counter element is designed, in particular, as a pin element that is immersed in the opening 158.

[0116] In one embodiment, two tabs 156 and correspondingly two counter elements 160 are provided.

[0117] During the manufacture of the suction device 20, the duct piece 80 can be positioned in a rotationally fixed manner relative to the blower holder 72 by fixing the tabs 156 to the corresponding counter elements 160 and thereby correctly aligned.

[0118] From the outlet 94 of the channel section 80, a pipe element 162 (compare Figure 6 ) to an outlet on the suction head 36, via which process air exhaust air can be released into the environment of the suction device 20.

[0119] It is also possible that the channel section 80 with its outlet 94 leads directly into the outlet.

[0120] The duct piece 80 is a multifunctional component, which is particularly realized in a one-piece component: It forms the duct 82 through which process air exhaust air can be discharged from the blower 60.

[0121] A connection of the blower 60 to the duct 82 is formed at least partially via the first opening 96 of the duct piece 80.

[0122] The duct piece 80 forms a first sealing device over the first partial area 102, via which the blower 60 / the blower motor 62 are sealed fluid-tight with respect to the blower holder 72. Furthermore, the duct piece 80 ensures that no liquid-laden suction flow can reach the blower motor 62.

[0123] Furthermore, the blower 60 / blower motor 62 is mounted in a floating manner over the first section 102 of the duct section 80. This allows for a certain degree of vibration isolation and reduces noise generation.

[0124] The first sealing device is in particular an axial sealing device.

[0125] Furthermore, the duct piece 80 forms a second sealing device via the second partial region 104, via which the hood 84 is mounted in a fluid-tight manner on the fan 60 / the fan motor 62. This achieves fluid-tightness of the cooling air guide device for cooling the fan motor 62.

[0126] Furthermore, a certain degree of vibration decoupling of the hood 84 can be achieved.

[0127] The channel piece 80 is in particular radially pressed and positioned in the receptacle 76.

[0128] The blower 60 / the blower motor 62 is clamped axially, in particular. A corresponding mount 162 is provided, which ensures this axial clamping. The blower motor 62 / the blower 60 can thus be easily fixed in the suction head 36. The suction device 20 can be manufactured in a simple manner. This results in a space-saving arrangement with high fluid tightness.

[0129] The duct piece 80 is placed over the blower 60 with the blower motor 62.

[0130] The duct section 80 also allows for effective flow guidance with low flow resistance. This results in high efficiency for the operation of the suction device 20.

[0131] The suction device 20 can be manufactured simply and cost-effectively. The number of components can be minimized thanks to the multifunctional design of the duct section 80.

[0132] The suction device 20 comprises a measuring device 164 (in particular Figures 13 to 18) for determining a liquid level 166 in the suction material container 22. In particular, measuring device 164 is designed as a threshold device, which checks whether a specific threshold value for a liquid level 166 has been reached; in a wet suction operation of the suction device 20, liquid is sucked in and collected in the suction material container 22. The suction device 20 should be prevented from becoming "flooded."

[0133] By determining the liquid level 166 and in particular a threshold value, the measuring device 164 can, for example, be used to switch off a suction operation in a timely manner.

[0134] The measuring device 164 comprises a probe device 168. The probe device 168 has a first flexurally elastic element 170 and a second flexurally elastic element 172. The first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 are spaced apart from one another in a transverse direction 174, which is in particular parallel to the wheel axis 32.

[0135] In one embodiment, the probe device 168 is arranged on the suction head 36.

[0136] It is also possible in principle for the probe device 168 to be arranged on the suction material container 22, or for it to be arranged with a first part on the suction head 36 and with a second part on the suction material container 22.

[0137] The arrangement of the probe device 168 completely on the suction head 36 has the advantage that electrical components of the measuring device 164, which are arranged in the suction head 36, can be in firm electrical contact with the probe device 168. If the probe device 168 is arranged on the suction material container 22, then appropriate electrical contact must be ensured when the suction head 36 is placed on the suction material container 22.

[0138] The first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 protrude into the interior 28 of the suction material container 22 in an operative position when the suction head 36 is placed on the suction material container 22.

[0139] In one embodiment (in particular Figures 15 and 16), the first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 are each designed as a linear element 176. It is wire-shaped, rope-shaped, or thread-shaped and made of an electrical conductor.

[0140] The first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 are each held on a holder 182 of the suction head 36 via a first fixing point 178 and a second fixing point 180.

[0141] Between the first fixing point 178 and the second fixing point 180, the respective flexible element 170, 172 is freely suspended.

[0142] Relative to the height axis 40, the first fixing point 178 and the second fixing point 180 are at the same height, with the fixing points 178, 180 for both flexurally elastic elements 170, 172 being at the same height.

[0143] The first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 have an arcuate shape between the respective first fixation point 178 and the second fixation point 180.

[0144] The first fixation point 178 is located in the region of a first end 184 of the respective flexible element 170, 172. The second fixation point 180 is located in the region of a second end 186.

[0145] In one embodiment, the corresponding flexurally elastic element 170 is fixed to the holder 162 by arranging a pin element 188 in the region of its ends 184, 186, which is fixed to the holder 162 and, for example, is pressed in there. The pin element 188 is, for example, pressed or glued to the line element 176.

[0146] In a starting position (compare for example the Figures 13 , 16), the first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 extend along the vertical axis 40 with a point or region 190 that has a minimal distance from the bottom 24 of the suction material container 22. This region 190 is, in particular, an apex point in the case of an arcuate configuration of the flexurally elastic elements 170, 172.

[0147] When the liquid level 166 reaches the range 190, a corresponding threshold value is reached. Range 190 thus defines the threshold value for the level detection of the measuring device 164.

[0148] The area 190 lies in particular for the first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 at the same height in the height axis 40. (Due to the oblique cut in Figure 13 the areas 190 of the flexurally elastic elements 170, 172 appear offset there.)

[0149] The first fixation point 178 and the second fixation point 180 are spaced apart from each other in a direction 192 by a distance 194. The direction 192 is transverse to the transverse direction 174 and transverse to the height axis 40.

[0150] In one embodiment, the direction 192 is a longitudinal direction of the suction device 20. In particular, in one embodiment, the suction device 20 has a larger dimension in the direction 192 than in the transverse direction 174.

[0151] The distance 194 is in particular at least 2 cm, preferably at least 4 cm, preferably at least 6 cm, preferably at least 8 cm and in particular preferably at least 10 cm.

[0152] Preferably, the distance 194 is at least 12 cm or at least 14 cm or at least 16 cm.

[0153] In principle, the distance 194 can be selected to be as large as a hanging position of the flexible elements 170, 172 with protrusion into the interior 28 of the suction material container 22 is still possible.

[0154] In the Figures 1 and 15 a variant 196 is indicated in which the flexible elastic element has a greater length, i.e. the distance 194 is greater than in the embodiment according to Figure 13 .

[0155] The first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 each have parallel, spaced-apart, opposing envelope planes 198a, 198b. The line element 176 lies between these envelope planes 198a, 198b.

[0156] The first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 are designed to be so rigid that they have a fixed position, namely the initial position, without any force influence. They are arranged and designed to be movable so that a deflection from this initial position is possible. This is shown in Figure 14 There, an initial position 200 is shown for the first flexurally elastic element 170 and 172. The double arrow 202 indicates a deflection relative to this initial position 200.

[0157] The flexurally elastic elements 170, 172 are arranged and configured such that, upon deflection from the initial position 200 and upon removal of the corresponding deflection force, they automatically return to their initial position 200. In particular, they are arranged and configured to be resilient such that they snap back into their initial position.

[0158] This reduces the risk of damage to the probe device 168. Furthermore, the snap-back action allows for a type of "automatic" cleaning of the flexible elements 170, 172.

[0159] When the liquid level 166 reaches the area 190, the flexible elements 170, 172 are generally exposed to contaminated liquid. Contaminants can settle on the flexible elements 170, 172.

[0160] If a flexible element 170, 172 is moved from the initial position 200 and snaps back via the resilient design after the deflection force has ceased, then incrustations can detach from the flexible element 170, 172 (from the line element 176).

[0161] In one embodiment, the flexible elements 170, 172 are in the initial position 200 at an acute angle 204 (compare Figure 13) is inclined relative to the height axis 40, wherein a distance 206 between the first flexurally elastic element and the second flexurally elastic element 172 decreases towards the region 190.

[0162] At the Figure 14 In the arrangement shown, the distance 206 decreases towards the bottom 24 of the suction material container 22.

[0163] The acute angle 204 is in particular related to the envelope planes 198a, 198b.

[0164] This provides an insertion aid when the suction head 36 with the probe device 168 is placed on the suction material container 22.

[0165] In particular, this makes it possible for the first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 to be positioned at a relatively large distance in the transverse direction 174 and in particular at the edge of the suction head 36.

[0166] It is advantageously provided that the first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 are arranged at an equal distance in the direction 192. This equal distance in the direction 192 is not absolutely necessary for proper functioning.

[0167] The suction head 36 has on its underside (which faces the bottom 24 of the suction material container 22 when the suction head 36 is placed on the suction material container 22) a mounting surface 208 (compare Figure 1 ) with a corresponding installation surface. When the suction head 36 is removed from the suction material container 22, it can be placed on a base using this installation surface 208.

[0168] It is intended that the first flexible element 170 and the second flexible element 172, in their initial position 200, lie on the corresponding installation plane for the installation surface 208 or protrude beyond it. (In principle, they can also be set back from this.)

[0169] In particular, if the flexible elements 170, 172 protrude beyond the installation plane in their initial position 200, they are bent when the suction head 36 is placed on a base. When the suction head 26 is then raised, they snap back into their initial position 200. This creates the cleaning effect described.

[0170] By arranging the flexurally elastic elements 170, 172 at the acute angle 204 to the height axis 40, in particular, an inward bending occurs, i.e. the flexurally elastic elements 170, 172 are bent towards each other.

[0171] In a variant of an embodiment, which in Figure 15 As indicated by reference numeral 210, a corresponding flexurally elastic element is fixed to the suction head 22 such that corresponding fixing points 212, 214 are not at the same height relative to the vertical axis 40. For example, the first fixing point 212 is located in the region of an underside of the suction head 36, and the second fixing point 214 is located on the nozzle 48.

[0172] In a variant of an embodiment ( Figure 17 ), a flexible element 170 is fixed to a holder 216 of the suction head 36, with a receptacle 218 arranged on the holder, respectively associated with the first fixing point 178 and the second fixing point 180. The receptacle 218 has a first part 220 in which a screw is positioned. It has a second part 222 through which the flexible element 170 extends.

[0173] The screw in the first part 220 allows the flexible element to be fixed and, in particular, clamped in the second part 222.

[0174] The receptacle 218 has an 8-shape with respect to its openings.

[0175] The suction device 20 has a control device 224 ( Figure 18 ), which is arranged in particular in the suction head 36. The control device controls the blower motor 62. The control device 224 is connected to one or more switches.

[0176] The control device 224 controls an optical and / or acoustic display 226.

[0177] The measuring device 164 comprises an evaluation circuit 228. This is implemented, for example, in an ASIC.

[0178] For a measuring operation of the measuring device 164, a voltage VccProbe_enable is applied between the first flexible element 170 and the second flexible element 172 as a loading signal via the evaluation circuit 228. A falling voltage Voltage In is measured as a response signal.

[0179] A resistance R_probe exists between the first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172 due to a medium between them. If there is no fluid between the first flexurally elastic element 170 and the second flexurally elastic element 172, then this resistance can be ideally considered to be infinitely large.

[0180] If fluid is present between the first flexible element 170 and the second flexible element 172, a current, particularly a short-circuit current, can flow. As a result, the resistance becomes finite, and the voltage Voltage In changes. This change is a measure that the fluid level 166 has reached the area 190. This allows the threshold value to be detected accordingly, and the fluid level 166 can be determined, at least digitally.

[0181] Corresponding measurement signals are provided by the evaluation circuit 228 and the control device 224. In one embodiment, the control device 224 then switches off the suction operation by appropriately applying pressure to the blower motor 62.

[0182] A warning indication may be given. It is also possible, for example, that if the corresponding threshold is detected, the vacuum cleaner 20 cannot be restarted for vacuuming operation.

[0183] In particular, the VccProbe_enable signal, which is an actuation signal, is emitted in a temporally pulsed manner, so that a measurement is not performed continuously. The Voltage In signal is a corresponding response signal and contains, at least in digital form, the liquid level 166, i.e., whether the threshold value has been reached or not.

[0184] According to the invention, a probe device 168 is provided that is flexible. The flexible elements 170, 172 greatly reduce the risk of breakage. The probe device 168 occupies relatively little space in the suction container 22 due to the linear elements 176. A flexible design aids in the self-cleaning of the flexible elements 170, 172. This allows for easy breakage of incrustations.

[0185] The self-cleaning effect can also occur automatically when the suction head 36 is placed on the support surface 208.

[0186] The first flexible elements 170, 172 are each made of an electrical conductor. They are rope-shaped with a certain inherent rigidity, although they can also be designed to be flexible. They are made, for example, of a wire material or of a thread or fiber material with conductive fibers, such as carbon fibers.

[0187] In one embodiment, the flexible elements 170, 172 are arranged centrally on the suction device 20 with respect to the direction 192. In particular, they are arranged spaced apart from one another in the transverse direction 174. This allows for a simple and reliable determination of whether a threshold value for the liquid level has been reached.

[0188] By means of a flexurally elastic design of the flexurally elastic elements 170, 172, a snapping back from the initial position 200 can be achieved for a self-cleaning effect.

[0189] By suspending them at spaced-apart fixing points 178, 180, air can flow through the flexible elements 170, 172. The suction air flow is not obstructed.

[0190] The probe device 168 can be arranged in such a way that, due to the acute angle 204, an insertion aid for placing the suction head 36 on the suction material container 22 is achieved. List of reference symbols

[0191] 20Suction device 22Suction material container 24Floor 26Wall 28Interior 30Wheel device 32Wheel axle 34Rollers 36Suction head 38Fixing device 40Elevation axis 42Base 44Suction connection 46Pipe element 48Connector 50Suction unit device 52Filter device 54Clean side 56Dirty side 58Cleaning device 60Blower 62Blower motor 64Impeller 66Motor axle 68Acute angle 70Guiding device for process air 72Blower holder 74Housing 76Receptacle 78Duct 80Duct section 82Duct 84Hood 86Track area 88Wall 90Wall 92Diameter 94Exit 96First opening 98Axial direction 100Second opening 102First section 104Second section 106Third section 108First side 110Second side 112First section 114Second section 116Support surface 118First support surface 120Second support surface 122Step 124(Counter) step 126First web 128Groove 129Inside 130Receptacle 132Wall area 134Wall area 136Opening 138Shaft 140Fan wheel 142Channel 144Housing area 146Outlet 148Tube 150Outlet 152SecondWeb 154First receptacle 156Tab 158Opening 160Counter element 162Holder 164Measuring device 166Liquid level 168Probe device 170First flexible element 172Second flexible element 174Transverse direction 176Line element 178First fixation point 180Second fixation point 182Holder 184First end 186Second end 188Pin element 190Area 192Direction 194Distance 196Variant 198aEnvelope plane 198bEnvelope plane 200Starting position 202Double arrow 204Acute angle 206Distance 208Installation surface 210Variant 212First fixation point 214Second fixation point 216Holder 218Receptacle 220First part 222Second part 224Control device 226Display 228Evaluation circuit

Claims

1. Suction appliance, comprising a suction material container (22) with an inner space (28), and comprising a measuring device (164) for a liquid level (166) in the suction material container (22), characterized in that the measuring device (164) has at least one first flexurally elastic element (170) and a second flexurally elastic element (172), wherein the second flexurally elastic element (172) is spaced at a distance from the first flexurally elastic element (170), in that the first flexurally elastic element (170) and the second flexurally elastic element (172) project into the inner space (28) of the suction material container (22), and in that the first flexurally elastic element (170) is held suspended on a first fixing point (178) and a second fixing point (180) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172) is held suspended on a first fixing point (178) and a second fixing point (180).

2. Suction appliance in accordance with Claim 1, characterized in that the first flexurally elastic element (170) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172) are movable and have a starting position (200), wherein the first flexurally elastic element (170) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172) automatically return to the starting position (200) when they are deflected from the starting position (200), wherein, in particular, the first flexurally elastic element (170) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172) are resiliently arranged and / or configured.

3. Suction appliance in accordance with Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first flexurally elastic element (170) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172) are configured as a line element (176) and, in particular, are of rope-shaped, wire-shaped, or thread-shaped configuration.

4. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, <b>characterized by at least one of the following: - the first flexurally elastic element (170) is freely suspended between the first fixing point (178) and the second fixing point (180) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172) is freely suspended between the first fixing point (178) and the second fixing point (180); - the first flexurally elastic element (170) is of arcuate configuration between the first fixing point (178) and the second fixing point (180) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172) is of arcuate configuration between the first fixing point (178) and the second fixing point (180); - a distance (194) between the first fixing point (178) and the second fixing point (180) is at least 2 cm, in particular at least 4 cm, in particular at least 6 cm, in particular at least 8 cm, in particular at least 10 cm, in particular at least 12 cm, in particular at least 14 cm, and in particular at least 16 cm.

5. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized by at least one of the following: - a distance direction (192) between the first fixing point (178) and the second fixing point (180) is oriented transversely to a height direction (40) of the suction appliance; - the distance direction (192) is oriented transversely to a wheel axle (32) of a wheel device (30); - the distance direction (192) lies in parallel with a longitudinal axis of the suction appliance; - the distance direction (192) is oriented in parallel with a longer side of the suction appliance.

6. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, <b>characterized by at least one of the following: - the first fixing point (178) is located in the region of a first end (184) of the first flexurally elastic element (170) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172); - the second fixing point (180) is located in the region of a second end (186) of the first flexurally elastic element (170) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172).

7. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that a distance between the first flexurally elastic element (170) and the second flexurally elastic element (172) is parallel with a wheel axle (32) and / or is transverse to a height direction (40) and / or is transverse to a longitudinal axis (192).

8. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized by a suction head (36), which is releasably arranged on the suction material container (22), and in particular characterized in that the first flexurally elastic element (170) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172) are held on the suction head (36) or in that the first flexurally elastic element (170) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172) are held on the suction material container (22).

9. Suction appliance in accordance with Claim 8, characterized in that the suction head (36) has a placement surface (208), which has a placement plane associated therewith, wherein the suction head (36) is able to be set down by way of the placement surface (208) when it is separated from the suction material container (22), and in that the first flexurally elastic element (170) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172) lie on the placement plane or project beyond it.

10. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the first flexurally elastic element (170) and / or the second flexurally elastic element (172) are oriented at an acute angle (204) to a height axis (40) of the suction appliance, wherein a distance between the first flexurally elastic element (170) and the second flexurally elastic element (172) decreases away from a fixing point (178; 180).

11. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the first flexurally elastic element (170) and the second flexurally elastic element (172) are configured as electrical conductors.

12. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the measuring device (164) comprises an impinging device (228), which applies an impinging signal to the first flexurally elastic element (170) and the second flexurally elastic element (172), and in that the measuring device (164) comprises a detection device (228), which detects a reaction signal to the impinging signal, wherein the reaction signal is dependent on the medium between the first flexurally elastic element (170) and the second flexurally elastic element (172), and in particular characterized in that the impinging signal is a voltage signal for a voltage that is applied between the first flexurally elastic element (170) and the second flexurally elastic element (172), and in that the reaction signal is a voltage signal.

13. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the measuring device (164) is in signal-operative connection with a control device (224), with at least one of the following: - when a certain liquid level is reached, the control device (224) switches off a suction operation; - when a certain liquid level is reached, an indication takes place; - when a certain liquid level is reached, a suction operation is blocked.

14. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, <b>characterized by a configuration in accordance with least one of the following: - as a stand-alone appliance; - as a wet-dry vacuum cleaner.