BACKPORTABLE BATTERY-POWERED VACUUM CLEANER

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a backpack-mounted, battery-operated vacuum device comprising a collection container, a technical unit connected to the collection container in an operating position of the vacuum device, and a backpack carrying device connected to the collection container and / or the technical unit in the operating position for carrying the vacuum device on the back of an operator, wherein the collection container is made of a foamed plastic material, wherein the collection container is designed to be removable from the technical unit without tools, wherein the vacuum device comprises a battery, in particular a rechargeable battery, and wherein the technical unit comprises a housing.

[0002] A vacuum device of the type described above is known, for example, from DE 10 2016 112 420 A1. With this known vacuum device, also referred to as a backpack dust collector, emptying the collection container is very laborious. Cleaning the collection container is also only possible with considerable effort. Furthermore, it is always desirable to design backpack devices to be as lightweight as possible.

[0003] Furthermore, backpack suction devices are known from publications WO 2019 / 169225 A1, US 5,267,371, US 2006 / 0005346 A1, CN 201 595 772 U and US 1,099,560.

[0004] It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve a backpack-mounted battery-operated vacuum device of the type described above in such a way that it is, in particular, easier to handle.

[0005] This problem is solved according to the invention in a backpack-mounted battery-operated suction device of the type described above by the fact that the suction device comprises a coupling device for mechanically coupling the battery to the housing of the technical unit and that the technical unit or its housing comprises a part of the coupling device.

[0006] Such a further developed vacuum cleaner has the particular advantage that the overall weight of the vacuum cleaner can be significantly reduced by constructing the collection container from a foamed plastic material. Making the collection container detachable from the technical unit, especially without tools, further simplifies emptying the container, with or without a dust collection bag. In particular, the collection container can be positioned below the technical unit in the direction of gravity during normal use of the vacuum cleaner, allowing easy access. Moreover, this design allows for the optional use of collection containers of different sizes, which can be connected to the technical unit depending on the application. Overall, this also allows for the development of a vacuum cleaner with excellent ergonomics. According to the invention, the technical unit comprises a housing.Such a housing makes it possible, in particular, to protect all components encompassed by the technical unit, such as the suction device or the control unit. According to the invention, the suction device includes a battery. In particular, the battery can be in the form of a rechargeable battery. The battery can, in particular, be permanently installed on the suction device so that it cannot be detached from the suction device by a user during normal use of the suction device. In such a configuration, the battery can, in particular, be arranged in or on the technical unit. If the battery is permanently installed on the suction device, a charging option is provided on the suction device to charge the battery without removing it from the suction device. According to the invention, the suction device includes a coupling device for mechanically coupling the battery to the housing of the technical unit.Such a coupling device enables a secure connection between the battery and the vacuum cleaner during use. The coupling device can also be designed, in particular, to establish an electrical connection between the technical unit and the battery, in order to supply electrical components of the technical unit with electrical energy from the battery. According to the invention, the technical unit or its housing comprises a part of the coupling device.

[0007] It is advantageous if the vacuum unit includes a suction device. In particular, the technical unit can incorporate the suction device. This allows for a particularly compact design of the vacuum unit. For example, by arranging the suction device in or on the technical unit, a self-contained unit can be formed from which the collection container can be easily removed without tools. "Without tools" in this sense means, in particular, that no additional tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, or the like are required to disconnect the collection container from the technical unit. In a tool-free design of this kind, all elements required for separating the technical unit and the collection container are located on or integrated into the vacuum unit and can be operated by one or more people.

[0008] Preferably, the technical unit comprises a control unit that interacts with the suction device. Actuating elements and display elements of the suction device can be arranged or configured to interact with this control unit. Preferably, all such components, including current-carrying or current-conducting elements, are arranged or configured on the technical unit.

[0009] It is advantageous if all current-carrying and conductive components are located or integrated exclusively within or on the technical unit. This allows, in particular, the electrical approval test to focus solely on the technical unit, as all other components of the vacuum cleaner neither contain nor include any current-carrying or conductive components.

[0010] To give the suction device sufficient stability, it is advantageous for the housing to be made of a plastic material. In particular, the plastic material can be a thermoset or a thermoplastic, or a mixture of thermosets and / or thermoplastics. The plastic material can also be a glass fiber reinforced plastic. This allows for a simple and cost-effective housing design with a reasonable weight.

[0011] The housing can be manufactured easily if it is produced by injection molding. In particular, it can be produced using a compact injection molding process.

[0012] To enable the use of different batteries, for example from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), with the vacuum cleaner, it is advantageous if the control unit and the battery are completely mechanically and electrically separated from each other in a disconnected position and mechanically and electrically coupled in a coupled position. For example, such a design allows a discharged battery to be disconnected from the vacuum cleaner and replaced with a charged one. This way, the vacuum cleaner can be used immediately after a battery replacement as described.

[0013] Preferably, in the operating position, the control unit is arranged between the battery and the collection container. This makes it possible, in particular, to design the vacuum cleaner such that, during intended use—i.e., when the vacuum cleaner is carried on the back of an operator—the battery is positioned on or above the control unit in the direction of gravity, and the collection container is positioned below the control unit in the direction of gravity. Such a design allows for easy battery replacement without requiring any modifications to the collection container. Conversely, the collection container can also be detached from the control unit in this way without having to remove the battery from the control unit.

[0014] It is advantageous if the housing has a top and a bottom, if the top and bottom of the housing face in opposite directions, and if, in the operating position, the battery is connected to the top of the housing and the bottom of the housing to the collection container. This design makes it easy to establish a stable connection between the control unit and the battery on the one hand, and between the control unit and the collection container on the other, independently of each other. The terms "top" and "bottom" refer to the orientation when the vacuum cleaner is used as intended, i.e., when it is carried on the back by an operator.

[0015] The vacuum unit can be made particularly compact if the underside of the housing seals the collection container in the operating position. Specifically, the underside of the housing can seal the top of the collection container. This design makes it possible, in particular, to pull the collection container downwards from the control unit for emptying. It is not necessary for the operator to remove the vacuum unit from their back.

[0016] Preferably, an air duct inlet is arranged or formed on the underside of the housing. This design makes it possible, in particular, to direct air flowing into the collection container from there through the air duct inlet to a suction device in the technical unit.

[0017] Advantageously, the air duct inlet is fluidly connected to a vacuum side of the suction device. This allows, in particular, air to be drawn from the collection container through the air duct inlet to the suction device. This enables larger cross-sections of the air duct to be achieved, resulting in very good performance data for the suction device, especially high vacuum and thus improved suction power.

[0018] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the technical unit can be at least partially enclosed by a protective housing. This provides additional protection for the technical unit and all its components, particularly its housing. Furthermore, by selecting the appropriate material for the protective housing, damage to objects and buildings can be minimized if the suction device comes into contact with them.

[0019] It is advantageous if the protective housing is made of one piece or in multiple parts, particularly two pieces. Depending on the design of the suction device, its assembly can be simplified if the protective housing is made of one piece, particularly monolithic, or in multiple parts.

[0020] The suction device can be assembled particularly easily if the protective housing or its components are designed to be connected to the technical unit and to each other without tools. In particular, a first snap-fit ​​or latching connection device can be provided for connecting the described parts. This first snap-fit ​​or latching connection device can, in particular, comprise interoperating snap-fit ​​or latching elements that are arranged or formed on the technical unit on one side and on the protective housing or its components on the other. These can be engaged without the aid of tools, i.e., in particular without the use of wrenches, screwdrivers, or the like.

[0021] The suction device can be designed to be particularly lightweight if the protective housing is made of a foamed plastic material. In particular, it can be made of the same foamed plastic material as the collection container. This also simplifies the manufacturing of the suction device, as only a minimal number of different materials are required for its production.

[0022] The suction device can be manufactured simply and cost-effectively if the foamed plastic material is or contains expanded polypropylene (EPP). This plastic material can be easily molded into the desired components with sufficient stability.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the back-carrying device may comprise a carrying frame and two shoulder straps arranged or formed on the carrying frame. The shoulder straps may, in particular, be arranged or formed symmetrically on the carrying frame so that the suction device can be worn ergonomically and symmetrically on the back of an operator. The shoulder straps may, in particular, be adjustable in length to allow persons of different sizes to wear the suction device comfortably.

[0024] It is advantageous if the technical unit is connected to the carrying frame. In particular, the technical unit and the carrying frame can be connected in such a way that a person cannot separate the two components as intended. Connecting the technical unit to the carrying frame allows for a defined positioning of the suction device on the operator's back. This also improves the overall stability of the suction device.

[0025] It is advantageous if the backpack carrying device, in particular the carrying frame, is connected to the protective housing. This design makes it possible, in particular, to detach the protective housing and the associated backpack carrying device as a single unit from the technical unit without having to disconnect the backpack carrying device, especially the carrying frame, from the protective housing. This simplifies, for example, maintenance of the suction device.

[0026] Preferably, at least part of the protective housing is arranged between the support frame and the technical unit. In particular, the support frame and the technical unit can be connected to each other through the protective housing, for example, by means of screws. With such a design, the protective housing can first be coupled to the technical unit for mounting the suction device, and then the support frame can be connected to the technical unit. In this case, the support frame and the technical unit can be connected without them directly touching each other. The protective housing then acts as a kind of spacer. Especially if the protective housing is made of a softer material than the housing, this also improves handling comfort for the operator.The backpack carrying device, in particular the carrying frame, can also be connected only to the protective housing, so that a connection between the technical unit and the backpack carrying device is made indirectly via the connection between the technical unit and the protective housing on the one hand, and between the protective housing and the backpack carrying device on the other.

[0027] It is advantageous if the collection container defines a receiving space and comprises a top, a bottom, and a surrounding wall extending from the bottom to the top, and if the top is open. In particular, the top can be completely or substantially completely open. Such a collection container with a suitably designed, open top allows for optimized airflow and thus a high-performance suction unit with minimal energy consumption.

[0028] It is advantageous if the surrounding wall of the collection container comprises a rear wall section, a front wall section opposite it, and two lateral wall sections connecting the rear and front wall sections and extending in opposite directions. This design makes it particularly possible to create a cuboid or essentially cuboid collection container.

[0029] Preferably, a suction port, connected or connectable to a suction hose, is arranged or formed on the collection container. In particular, the suction port is located on one of the two side wall sections. Dirt can be sucked into the collection container through the suction port. Arranging the suction port on one of the two side wall sections allows for particularly ergonomic handling of the vacuum cleaner, as an operator can then easily grasp and guide a suction hose extending laterally from the collection container.

[0030] The handling of the vacuum cleaner can be further improved if it includes a suction hose that can be connected to the suction inlet at one end and has a suction nozzle at the other, and / or can be connected to a suction nozzle or suction tube. The suction hose can therefore be connected to the suction inlet at one end or remain permanently attached. The other end of the suction hose can be designed as a suction nozzle or be temporarily or permanently connected to a separate suction nozzle, such as a floor nozzle or similar, or to a suction tube. This allows the vacuum cleaner to be used universally for various cleaning purposes.

[0031] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the vacuum cleaner includes a suction tube, and if the suction tube can be connected to the suction hose and also has a suction nozzle and / or can be connected to one. A suction tube offers the particular advantage that an operator can comfortably vacuum floors without having to bend over. Compared to a suction hose, the suction tube provides improved stability and guidance to the suction channel within it. Various suction nozzles can be optionally connected to the suction tube, depending on the intended application.

[0032] It is advantageous if the upper surface of the collection container is mirror-symmetrical with respect to two mutually perpendicular mirror planes. Such a design allows, in particular, the collection container to be coupled to the technical unit in at least two positions rotated 180° relative to each other, regardless of the specific shape of the upper surface. This has the particular advantage that, if a single suction connection is arranged or formed on a lateral wall section of the collection container, the container can be easily rotated 180° and engaged with the technical unit, thus enabling the vacuum cleaner to be operated equally well by left- and right-handed users. In other words, only one type of collection container is required, which can be positioned differently relative to the technical unit.

[0033] Preferably, the two mirror planes intersect in a line of intersection, with the line of intersection defining a longitudinal axis of the collection container. This allows for a defined coupling with the technical unit. In particular, the line of intersection can run parallel to the direction of gravity during the intended use of the suction device.

[0034] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the collection container is designed to be entirely mirror-symmetrical or substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to the two mirror planes. Substantially mirror-symmetrical here means, in particular, that the collection container is symmetrical apart from a suction connection located or formed on one side of the container, i.e., asymmetrically, which causes the collection container to deviate from double mirror symmetry. However, the suction connection can be designed such that it is symmetrical with respect to one of the two mirror planes.

[0035] Preferably, the underside of the housing is designed to be mirror-symmetrical with respect to the two mirror planes. Designing the housing of the technical unit in this way enables coupling with a collection container, the upper surface of which is also mirror-symmetrical with respect to the two mirror planes.

[0036] It is advantageous if the technical unit and the collection container are held together by clamping in the operating position. This can be achieved, for example, using conical clamping surfaces. Conical in this sense means that the interacting clamping surfaces of the technical unit and the collection container are inclined relative to, for example, the longitudinal axis of the collection container, with the surfaces in contact during operation running parallel to each other.

[0037] It is advantageous if the collection container has a circumferential first clamping surface with a cross-section that increases in the direction of the technical unit. This design makes it possible, in particular, to provide a correspondingly inclined circumferential clamping surface on the technical unit, which then engages in the collection container and rests against the first clamping surface in the operating position.

[0038] Preferably, a second, circumferential clamping surface is formed on the housing, which rests against the first clamping surface in the operating position. As already mentioned, a clamping connection between the collection container and the technical unit can be easily achieved through the interaction of the first and second clamping surfaces. Furthermore, optimal sealing of the collection container can be achieved simply and cost-effectively without additional sealing elements.

[0039] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the suction device may include a locking device for securing the connection between the collection container and the technical unit in the operating position. If the collection container and the technical unit are, for example, clamped together in the operating position as described, the locking device serves the purpose of additionally securing this clamping connection. If the collection container is arranged below the technical unit in the direction of gravity, the locking device thus prevents the collection container from unintentionally detaching from the technical unit due to the acting force of gravity.

[0040] The securing device can be easily designed if it includes at least one securing element that holds the collection container to the technical unit in the operating position. For example, this at least one securing element can be in the form of a hook that engages with a corresponding recess in the operating position. Such a hook can be located on the technical unit, the collection container, or the backpack carrying device. Alternatively or additionally, a securing element in the form of a strap can be provided that encircles the collection container. The free ends of the strap are, for example, located or fixed to the technical unit or to the backpack carrying device.

[0041] It is advantageous if the at least one locking element, in its operating position, at least partially encircles the collection container and is connected to the carrying device on one side and to the technical unit on the other. In particular, the at least one locking element can encircle the underside of the collection container, thus preventing it from moving away from the technical unit due to its weight. The at least one locking element can, for example, be connected to or connectable to the front of the housing. A detachable connection between the at least one locking element and the housing makes it possible, in particular, to release the collection container by disconnecting it from the technical unit for emptying.

[0042] It is advantageous if the suction device includes a tool-free coupling mechanism for detachably connecting the at least one safety link to the backpack carrying system and / or the technical unit. For example, one end of the at least one safety link can be permanently connected to either the technical unit or the backpack carrying system, while the other end of the at least one safety link can be detachably connected to the other component of the suction device. This simplifies handling of the suction device, as only one end of the safety link needs to be released to detach the collection container.The tool-free coupling mechanism can, for example, include a hook with a tension lever to release the at least one locking element, which may be band-shaped, by pivoting the tension lever. This allows the hooked free end of the at least one locking element to be detached, for example, from the technical unit. The reverse procedure can then be used to secure the device.

[0043] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the suction device may include a permanent filter, and the permanent filter may be held in an operating position between the technical unit and the collection container. Such a permanent filter, in particular, prevents coarse dirt from the collection container from entering the technical unit, especially the suction device arranged therein.

[0044] Preferably, the permanent filter comprises a holding frame and a filter element held on the holding frame. The filter element can, for example, be in the form of a fleece. Such a permanent filter is particularly easy to handle and replace when necessary.

[0045] It is advantageous if the mounting frame has a circumferential clamping section, if the clamping section has two clamping surfaces facing away from each other, and if, in the operating position, the clamping surfaces are in contact with the first clamping surface on one side and the second clamping surface on the other. Designing the mounting frame in this way makes it possible, in particular, to clamp the permanent filter directly between the collection container and the technical unit when required. The clamping surfaces, which are conically shaped as described, thus allow the vacuum cleaner to be used either with or without such a permanent filter. No additional elements are required for inserting the permanent filter, neither on the mounting frame, nor on the technical unit, nor on the collection container.

[0046] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the vacuum cleaner includes a HEPA filter that closes the air duct inlet in the operating position. The HEPA filter can, for example, comprise a HEPA filter element. Such HEPA filters fall into filter classes H13 and H14 according to EN1822-1:2009.

[0047] Conveniently, the HEPA filter is coupled to the control unit in the operating position. This allows the user to operate the vacuum cleaner with the HEPA filter without using the permanent filter. The HEPA filter is then securely held to the control unit and does not fall off when the collection container is detached for emptying.

[0048] For ease of use of the vacuum cleaner, it is advantageous if the HEPA filter is positioned or designed between the permanent filter and the air duct inlet in the operating position. In particular, the HEPA filter can, as described, close the air duct inlet so that the air flowing through the vacuum cleaner must always pass through the HEPA filter.

[0049] It is advantageous if the particulate filter comprises a particulate filter frame and a particulate filter element held to it, and if the particulate filter frame is coupled to the technical unit in the operating position. In particular, the particulate filter frame can be coupled to the technical unit by a second locking or snap-fit ​​connection. Such a connection allows for easy and quick detachment and reattachment of the particulate filter to the technical unit. For example, the particulate filter element can be held loosely on the particulate filter frame so that it can be quickly and easily replaced and, if necessary, cleaned in the event of contamination.

[0050] To generate a suction flow, it is advantageous for the suction device to include a blower. For example, the blower can include a rotatably mounted rotor driven by an electric motor. This could, for instance, be an electronically commutated motor. Compared to a brushed motor, which would also be conceivable, such an EC motor has a longer service life.

[0051] Preferably, the blower is arranged or formed within a blower chamber integrated into the housing. This allows, in particular, the housing itself to be designed for optimal airflow. Specifically, the blower chamber can be optimized to the dimensions of a rotor to achieve the most efficient suction flow with minimal energy consumption.

[0052] It is advantageous if the suction device has a discharge opening, either arranged or formed, and if a pressure side of the suction device is fluidly connected to the discharge opening. This design makes it possible, in particular, to discharge the air conveyed by the suction device in a controlled manner. In principle, the discharge opening can be positioned anywhere on the suction device.

[0053] Preferably, the discharge opening comprises several discharge slots. In particular, the discharge slots are arranged or formed on the housing. In this case, air can then be directed through the described air duct inlet on the underside of the housing, to the negative pressure side of the suction device, through the suction device to the pressure side of the suction device, and from there to the discharge opening, specifically entirely within the housing of the technical unit. The collection container is then connected upstream of this described air duct, so that contaminants, for example, can be drawn into the collection container via a suction hose or a suction pipe that is fluidly connected to the suction port on the collection container, and then through the top of the collection container and, if necessary, through the permanent filter and / or the HEPA filter to the air duct inlet of the technical unit.Providing multiple discharge slots allows, in particular, for a defined and directed release of the air conveyed by the suction unit. Optionally, the protective housing can also partially restrict the airflow on the pressure side. In this way, the protective housing can at least partially fulfill a dual function: on the one hand, protecting the housing of the technical unit from damage, and on the other hand, restricting a portion of the airflow, i.e., the air channels formed within the suction unit.

[0054] Preferably, the exhaust opening is located or formed on a front side of the suction device. In this context, the front side is the side of the suction device facing away from the back-mounted carrying device. Air flowing from the suction device can thus escape freely. This minimizes flow resistance, thereby improving the performance of the suction device.

[0055] Preferably, the discharge opening is arranged or formed on the technical unit. This makes it possible, in particular, to form the discharge opening on the housing of the technical unit, which is preferably formed in one piece. This minimizes the number of parts required to form the suction device and simplifies its assembly. Preferably, the discharge opening is formed on a front side of the technical unit. The front side can, in particular, be the front of the housing facing away from the back-carrying device.

[0056] It is advantageous if the discharge opening defines at least two outlet areas, if an air guidance device is arranged or formed on the technical unit, and if the air guidance device comprises at least two separate air channels, each of which is fluidly connected on one side to the pressure side of the suction device and on the other side to one of the at least two outlet areas. The at least two separate air channels may also be partially enclosed by the protective housing. A design with at least two separate air channels has the particular advantage that their cross-sections can be optimized to convey identical or substantially identical volume flows of air through identically sized outlet areas. This allows for the optimization of flow conditions at the suction device and thus improves its performance.

[0057] For ease of use, it is advantageous if the collection container has feet. This makes it possible, in particular, to place the vacuum cleaner on its feet.

[0058] The feet are conveniently molded onto the collection container. In particular, they can protrude outwards, i.e., away from the collection area. This allows the vacuum unit to be placed securely and stably in an upright position, specifically with the longitudinal axis of the collection container parallel or essentially parallel to the direction of gravity.

[0059] For ease of use, it can also be advantageous if the vacuum cleaner includes a dust bag, if the dust bag has an opening, if the dust bag is positioned within the collection container, and if the dust bag opening and a suction port on the vacuum cleaner are fluidly connected in the operating position. Air flowing into the vacuum cleaner, along with any dirt it contains, is thus directed through the suction port directly into the dust bag. If the dust bag is permeable to air, the air can flow through it, but contaminants in the airflow are retained.

[0060] Preferably, the suction bag is designed to be air-permeable. This allows air flowing into the collection container to pass through the suction bag, while preventing dirt contained in the airflow from passing through. This dirt is then retained in the suction bag. The suction bag can be easily removed from the collection container, allowing for simple disposal of the dirt collected by the vacuum cleaner.

[0061] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one retaining element for an accessory can be arranged or formed on the backpack carrying device. In particular, the retaining element can be designed to hold a suction tube or suction hose. For example, the retaining element can be arranged on the carrying frame pointing away from the suction device. In this way, for example, a suction tube can be temporarily attached to the retaining element, which can then serve as additional support for the suction device when it is placed on the feet of the collection container described above.

[0062] For easier handling of the vacuum cleaner, it is further advantageous if it includes a carrying handle and if the carrying handle is located on a side of the vacuum cleaner facing away from the collection container. In particular, the carrying handle can be positioned facing away from the top of the housing of the technical unit. This allows an operator to grasp the vacuum cleaner with one hand and carry it safely.

[0063] It is advantageous if the carrying handle, in its operating position, is connected on one side to the backpack carrying device and on the other side to the technical unit or a part of the protective housing. In particular, such a positioning of the carrying handle can enable an operator to carry the suction device in a balanced manner.

[0064] Preferably, in the operating position, the center of gravity of the suction device lies below the carrying handle when one of its longitudinal axes is aligned parallel to the direction of gravity. This makes it possible, in particular, to carry the suction device with one hand with minimal effort, without it tending to swing when lifted.

[0065] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the vacuum cleaner is designed as a canister vacuum. A canister vacuum in this sense is a vacuum cleaner whose collection container, when the vacuum cleaner is in its intended use, is positioned below the suction unit in the direction of gravity. If, for example, the suction unit is detached from the collection container, all the dirt collected in the container remains inside, as the container is open at the top, i.e., facing against the direction of gravity. Therefore, dirt cannot unintentionally fall out of the collection container. Designing the backpack-mounted, battery-operated vacuum cleaner as a canister vacuum can thus be achieved, in particular, by positioning the technical unit above the collection container in its operating position, facing against the direction of gravity, when in its intended use.

[0066] The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, in conjunction with the drawings, serves for further explanation. The drawings show: Figure 1: a schematic perspective overall view of an embodiment of a suction device; Figure 2: another schematic perspective overall view of the suction device made of Figure 1 Figure 3: a schematic exploded view of the suction device made of Figure 1 Figure 4: an enlarged view of an upper part of the suction device made of Figure 1 Figure 5: a partially cutaway view of the suction device made of Figure 1 from the front; Figure 6: an enlarged view of area A from Figure 5 with a permanent filter applied; Figure 7: a view similar to Figure 5 , but without a permanent filter; Figure 8: an enlarged view of area B in Figure 7 Figure 9: a perspective, partially cutaway view of the suction device made of Figure 1in the upper area; Figure 10: an enlarged sectional view of the suction device in the area of ​​a coupling device for connecting it to a battery in a locked position; Figure 11: a similar view Figure 10 , however in an unlocked position; Figure 12: a partially cutaway side view of the suction device; Figure 13: an enlarged view of area C from Figure 12 Figure 14: a top view of the suction device in Figure 1 with the protective housing partially removed; Figure 15: a partially perspective view of the suction device made of Figure 1 with the protective housing partially removed; and Figure 16: a schematic representation of the basic structure of an exemplary embodiment of a suction device.

[0067] In Figure 1Figure 10 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a backpack-mounted, battery-operated suction device. It comprises a collection container 12, a technical unit 14, and a backpack carrier 16 for carrying the suction device 10 on the back of an operator.

[0068] A battery 18 is used to operate the suction device 10; in the illustrated embodiment, this battery is designed in the form of a rechargeable battery 18.

[0069] Other optional components of the suction unit 10 are a permanent filter 20 and a HEPA filter 22.

[0070] Furthermore, the suction device 10 includes a protective housing 24, which partially surrounds the technical unit 14.

[0071] The components of the suction device 10 mentioned above are explained in more detail below.

[0072] In Figure 1The embodiment of the suction device 10 is shown in an upright position, in which a longitudinal axis 26 of the same is aligned parallel to the direction of gravity symbolized by the arrow 28.

[0073] The in Figure 1 The suction device 10 shown in the operating position is constructed according to the so-called canister vacuum principle and thus forms a battery-operated backpack canister vacuum 30.

[0074] The suction cup principle is as shown schematically in Figure 16The technical unit 14, with a suction device arranged therein, is positioned above the collection container 12 in the direction of gravity. In this configuration, the technical unit 14 seals the collection container 12 from above. When the technical unit 14 is removed from the collection container 12, or when the collection container 12 is separated from the technical unit 14, the dirt collected in the collection container 12 remains there and cannot fall out due to gravity, since the collection container 12 is sealed at the bottom.

[0075] The collection container 12 has an essentially cuboid shape and defines a receiving space 34 for collecting suctioned dirt, also referred to as suction material.

[0076] The collection container 12 comprises a collection container top 36, a collection container bottom 38 opposite it, and a circumferential collection container wall 40 extending from the collection container bottom 36 to the collection container top 38. The collection container top 36 is open, essentially completely, and defines a collection container opening 42.

[0077] The surrounding collection container wall 40 comprises a rear wall section 44, a front wall section 46 opposite it, and two lateral wall sections 48 and 50 extending opposite each other and connecting the rear wall section 44 and the front wall section 46.

[0078] A suction connection 52 is arranged on the collection container 42, specifically on the side wall section 48. The suction connection 52 is located closer to the top of the collection container 36 than to the bottom of the collection container 38.

[0079] The suction port 52 is rotatable about a suction port longitudinal axis 54, which extends transversely to the longitudinal axis 26. A free end of the suction port 52 is designed in the form of a coupling piece 56, which can be coupled to a corresponding coupling piece 58 at one end of a suction hose 60.

[0080] The suction hose 60 has a further coupling piece 62 at a second end, which can be coupled to an optional suction pipe 64, namely a free end 66 thereof. A suction nozzle 68 is optionally arranged at the other end of the suction pipe 64 or can be detachably connected to the suction pipe 64. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the suction nozzle 68 is designed in the form of a floor nozzle 70.

[0081] Optionally, the floor nozzle 70 can also be connected directly to the suction hose 60, namely the coupling piece 62, depending on the desired application of the suction device 10.

[0082] The suction hose 60 can optionally also be used without the floor nozzle 70. In this case, the coupling piece 62 forms a suction nozzle 74.

[0083] The suction tube 68 can also be used without the suction nozzle 68. In this case, a free end of the suction tube 64 also forms a suction nozzle 76.

[0084] The collection container 12 is designed such that its upper surface 36 is mirror-symmetrical with respect to two mutually perpendicular mirror planes 78 and 80. The two mirror planes 78 and 80 intersect in a line of intersection which defines the longitudinal axis 26 of both the suction device 10 and the collection container 12.

[0085] The collection container 12 is designed as a whole in a mirror-symmetrical or essentially mirror-symmetrical manner with respect to the two mirror planes 78 and 80. However, a deviation from the mirror symmetry results from the one-sided arrangement of the suction connection 52.

[0086] The collection container 12 is formed in one piece, namely monolithically, except for the suction connection 52.

[0087] The collection container 12 has support feet 82, arranged or formed, essentially at the four corners of the underside 38 of the collection container, extending away from the underside 38. The support feet 82 are integrally formed with the collection container 12. In another embodiment, the support feet 82 are formed as separate components and attached to the collection container by force-fit and / or form-fit.

[0088] The collection container 12 is made of a foamed plastic material. The protective housing 24 is also made of a foamed plastic material.

[0089] In the embodiment of the suction device 10 shown in the figures, both the protective housing 24 and the collection container 12 are made of the same foamed plastic material. Expanded polypropylene (EPP) is used as the plastic material in the illustrated and described embodiment.

[0090] A circumferential first clamping surface 84 is formed on the collection container 12, extending to the top of the collection container 36. The first clamping surface 84 is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis 26 by a clamping angle 86. In the embodiment shown in the figures, this angle is approximately 20°, while in alternative embodiments it ranges from approximately 5° to approximately 25°. Due to the described inclination, the first clamping surface 84 has a cross-section that increases towards the technical unit 14. In other words, the receiving space 34 widens conically towards the top of the collection container 36.

[0091] The technical unit 14 comprises a housing 88, which in the illustrated embodiment is designed in multiple parts. It comprises a lower housing part 90, which is connected to a base plate 92, and an upper housing part 94, which is connected to the lower housing part 90 in the operating position of the suction device 10. A coupling device 98 is arranged on an upper housing surface 96 of the housing 88, which is designed for mechanically coupling the battery 18 to the technical unit 14, in particular its housing 88.

[0092] The housing 88 is formed from a plastic material by injection molding. In the illustrated and described embodiment, the plastic material is a thermoset. A compact injection molding process is used to form the housing 88 in the described embodiment. In another embodiment, the plastic material is a thermoplastic. In yet another embodiment, the plastic material is wholly or partially a glass fiber reinforced plastic.

[0093] The housing 88 further comprises a lower housing surface 100, which is formed by the lower housing part 90. The upper housing surface 96 is formed on the upper housing part 94 and points in the opposite direction with respect to the lower housing surface 100.

[0094] In the Figure 1In the illustrated operating position of the suction device 10, the battery 18 is connected to the upper housing 96, specifically to the coupling device 98 arranged thereon. The lower housing 100 is clamped to the collection container 12 in the operating position.

[0095] In the operating position, the housing 88 closes the collection container 12 with the lower part of the housing 100, namely the upper part of the collection container 36.

[0096] An air duct inlet 102 is formed on the underside 100 of the housing. It is divided into several smaller openings, which are separated from each other by webs. The base plate 92 has a corresponding opening 104 to the air duct inlet 102.

[0097] The opening 104 is located directly below a blower chamber 106, which is formed in the housing 88. The blower chamber 106 is thus open downwards in the direction of gravity.

[0098] The suction device 32 of the suction unit 10 is arranged in the blower chamber 106. It comprises a blower 108 with a rotor 110, which is driven by an electric motor 112 in the form of an EC motor. A longitudinal axis 114 of the suction device 32 is aligned coaxially with the opening 104.

[0099] The blower chamber 106 has a lateral outlet opening 116 through which air drawn in by the blower 108 via the air duct inlet 102 can flow laterally into a distribution chamber 118. The distribution chamber 118 has an upper outlet 120 and a lower outlet 122. The upper outlet 120 has a cross-sectional area approximately the same as the lower outlet 122. Furthermore, these are arranged side by side. The upper outlet 120 opens into a right outlet chamber 124, and the lower outlet 122 into a left outlet chamber 126. The two outlet chambers 124 and 126 are partially bounded by a front face 128 of the protective housing 24.

[0100] Furthermore, a blow-out opening 130 is arranged or formed on the suction device 10, which fluidly connects the outlet chambers 124 and 126 with an environment 132 of the suction device 10.

[0101] The outlet opening 116 of the blower chamber 106 defines a pressure side 134 of the suction device 32. The pressure side 134 is fluidly connected to the discharge opening 130.

[0102] The discharge opening 130 comprises a right discharge area 136 and a left discharge area 138. The two discharge areas 136 and 138 each comprise two discharge slots 140 and 142, respectively. The discharge slots 140 and 142 are formed on the housing 88, namely on the lower housing part 90.

[0103] The discharge opening 130 is located on a front side 144 of the suction device 10, directly below the front side 128 of the protective housing 24. Thus, the discharge opening 130 is located on, or rather formed within, the technical unit 14, specifically on one of its front sides. With respect to the direction of gravity, the discharge opening 130 is bounded above by the front side 128 of the protective housing 24 and below by the front wall section 46 of the collection container 12.

[0104] The technical unit 14 further comprises an air guidance device 146, which includes two separate air guidance channels 148 and 150, each of which is fluidly connected to the pressure side 134 of the suction device 32. Conversely, the air guidance channels 148 and 150 are each fluidly connected to one of the two outlet areas 136 and 138. In the embodiment shown and described in the figures, the right outlet chamber 124 forms the air guidance channel 148, and the left outlet chamber 126 forms the air guidance channel 150.

[0105] Furthermore, a control chamber 152 is formed on the housing 88, which is arranged next to the blower chamber 106 in the direction of gravity. A control device 154 is arranged in the control chamber 152, which is connected to the suction device 32 in a control-effective manner.

[0106] In one embodiment, the control device 154 comprises a receiver unit (not shown in the figures) which can receive control signals, for example, from a separate control unit for activating and deactivating the suction device 32. Optionally, different operating modes can also be predefined, which can be activated via the external control unit. Communication between the control device 154 and a separate control unit, which can be designed, for example, as a belt controller attached to the belt of an operator of the suction device or to a carrying strap of the backpack device 16, can be effected, in particular, wirelessly, for example via Bluetooth, or via a connecting cable.

[0107] In the embodiment of the suction device 10 shown in the figures and described above, all current-carrying or current-conducting components are arranged or formed on the technical unit 14 in the manner described.

[0108] The opening 104 defines a negative pressure side 156 of the suction device 32. Thus, the air duct inlet 102 is fluidly connected to the negative pressure side 156 of the suction device.

[0109] In the described embodiment, the protective housing 24 is formed in one piece, namely monolithically. In other embodiments, the protective housing 24 can also be formed in multiple parts.

[0110] In the described embodiment, the protective housing 24 and the technical unit 14 are designed to be connected to each other without tools. For this purpose, the protective housing 24 and the technical unit 14 are provided with interoperable locking or snap elements of a first locking or snap connection device 158. These enable the protective housing 24 to be connected to the technical unit 14 in a manner familiar to those skilled in the art by simply pushing them together and snapping them into place.

[0111] The protective housing 24 has an opening 160 on its upper side, which corresponds to the coupling device 98. Furthermore, the protective housing 24 is open at the bottom.

[0112] For assembly, i.e., for connecting the protective housing 24 with the technical unit 14, the protective housing 24 is guided parallel to the direction of gravity from above over the technical unit 14 until the coupling device 98 partially penetrates the opening 160 and the locking or snapping elements of the first locking or snapping connection device 158 engage with each other.

[0113] The lower housing surface 102 of the housing 88 is mirror-symmetrical with respect to the two mirror planes 78 and 80. Furthermore, a second circumferential clamping surface 162 is formed on the housing 88, specifically on the lower housing part 90. In the operating position, where the technical unit 14 and the collection container 12 are connected, this second clamping surface rests against the first clamping surface 84. The second clamping surface 162 is inclined at the same clamping angle 86 with respect to the longitudinal axis 26 as the first clamping surface 84. This allows, as schematically shown in Figure 8The figure shows that the clamping surfaces 84 and 162 lie flat against each other in the operating position, thus sealing the receiving chamber 34 all around. An additional sealing element for sealing the collection container 12 relative to the technical unit 14 is not required. In an alternative embodiment, an additional sealing element is provided for sealing the collection container 12 relative to the technical unit 14.

[0114] The back-carrying device 16 comprises a carrying frame 164 and two shoulder straps 166, also referred to as carrying straps, arranged or formed on the frame. These straps are arranged or formed symmetrically with respect to the mirror plane 78 on the carrying frame 164, which is also mirror-symmetrical to this mirror plane 78. The shoulder straps 166 extend from an upper end of the carrying frame 164 to a lower end thereof and are long enough for an operator to place one of the two shoulder straps 166 on one shoulder at a time.

[0115] A retaining hook 168 is arranged or formed centrally on the support frame 164 and in the operating position pointing against the direction of gravity.

[0116] In one embodiment, a retaining element 170 for an accessory 172, for example the suction tube 64, is arranged or formed on the back-carrying device 16. The retaining element 170 comprises two spring-loaded clip arms 174, formed symmetrically to the mirror plane 72 on the support frame 164 and pointing away from the protective housing 24 in one direction, which partially grip and clamp the accessory 172. Figure 14 The retaining element 170 and a clip arm 174 are shown schematically with dashed lines. Alternatively or additionally, in another embodiment, one or more hooks are provided as retaining elements 170 to temporarily attach accessories to the suction device 10.

[0117] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the support frame 164 is first connected to the protective housing 24. This is done by means of screws (not shown in the figures). This unit, consisting of the support frame 164 and the protective housing 24, is then slid over the technical unit 14 in the direction of gravity and clipped or locked into place. The support frame 164 and the technical unit 14 are thus firmly connected. A part of the protective housing 24, namely its rear wall which rests against the support frame 164, is thus positioned between the support frame 164 and the technical unit 14.

[0118] In an alternative embodiment, the support frame 164 and the technical unit 14 are also permanently connected. Fasteners in the form of screws serve to connect the support frame 164 and the technical unit 14. In this alternative embodiment, it is not intended that a user will disconnect this connection. Before connecting the technical unit 14 and the support frame 164, however, the protective housing 24 must first be connected to the technical unit 14. The support frame 164 is then connected to the coupled unit consisting of the protective housing 24 and the technical unit 14. Thus, in this embodiment as well, a part of the protective housing 24, namely its rear wall which rests against the support frame 164, is positioned between the support frame 164 and the technical unit 14. The connection between the support frame 164 and the technical unit 14 provides additional security for the protective housing 24 connected to the technical unit 14.

[0119] The suction device 10 also has a carrying handle 176. The carrying handle 176 is arranged or formed on the suction device 10 on a side of the device facing away from the collection container 12. In the embodiment shown in the figures, it points in the opposite direction to gravity in the operating position.

[0120] The convexly curved carrying handle 176, pointing away from the suction device 10, extends above the battery 18 when the latter is coupled to the technical unit 14. It is attached on one side to the backpack carrying device 16 and on the other side to the protective housing 24, and thus indirectly to the technical unit 14.

[0121] The described arrangement of the carrying handle 176 results in the center of gravity of the suction device 10 being located below the carrying handle 176 in the operating position, i.e. when the longitudinal axis 26 is aligned parallel to the direction of gravity.

[0122] In Figure 1The schematic representation shows that the technical unit 14 and the battery 18 are mechanically and electrically coupled to each other in a coupling position. Figure 4 The battery 18 and the technical unit 14 are shown in a separation position, completely separated mechanically and electrically from each other.

[0123] In the Figures 10 and 11 The coupling device 98 is partially shown in section, specifically in Figure 10 the coupling position in which the battery 18 and the coupling device 98, which is fixed to the technical unit 14, are engaged with each other. In this coupling position, connection contacts 178 are also in contact with connection contacts of the battery 18 (not shown in the figures) in order to establish an electrical connection between the battery 18 and the control unit 154.

[0124] In the Figures 10 and 11The figure also shows in particular how the battery 18 is mechanically secured to the coupling device 98. A lever 182, held in a locking position by a spring 180, engages with a projection 184 arranged on the lever in a corresponding recess 186 on an underside of the battery 18.

[0125] A sliding element 188 is used to unlock the battery 18. This element is slidable parallel to an underside of the battery 18 towards the lever 182, which is pivotable about a pivot axis 190. An actuating surface 192 of the sliding element 188, projecting laterally below the battery 18, is freely accessible to a user, allowing the sliding element 188 to be moved towards the pivot axis 190. A wedge-shaped end of the sliding element 188, pointing towards the pivot axis 190, is chamfered and defines a sliding surface 194 for another end 196 of the lever 182.

[0126] The end 196 and the end of the lever 182 carrying the projection 184 point in essentially opposite directions. When the sliding element 188 is advanced towards the pivot axis 190, the end 196 slides onto the sliding surface 194, causing the lever 182 to pivot against the action of the spring 118. The projection 184 is thereby moved out of the recess 186, so that, as shown in Figure 11 As shown, the battery 18 can be pulled away from the coupling device 98 parallel to its underside in the direction of the actuating surface 192.

[0127] When the battery 18 is inserted into the coupling device 98, a chamfered side surface 198 of the lever 182 comes into contact with the underside of the battery 18 as the battery 18 is advanced, pivoting the lever 182 away from the battery 18. This compresses the spring 118 through the lever 182. As soon as the recess 186 is positioned directly above the projection 184, the lever 182 is moved into the recess 186 by the action of the spring 180, which is designed as a compression spring, and locks the battery 18 in the coupling position, which is schematically shown in Figure 10 is shown.

[0128] As schematically in Figure 9As shown in the dashed line, a suction bag 200 can be used when operating the suction device 10. The suction bag 200 carries a frame plate 102, which has an opening 204. The opening 204 corresponds to a section 206 of the suction connection 52 that projects into the receiving chamber 34. Thus, in the operating position, an interior 208 of the suction bag 200 and the surroundings 132 of the suction device 10 are fluidly connected to each other via the suction connection 52 and the opening 204.

[0129] The suction bag 200 is made of an air-permeable material, for example a porous paper material.

[0130] As already described and in Figure 8 As shown schematically, the technical unit 14 and the collection container 12 can be directly clamped together by placing the first clamping surface 84 and the second clamping surface 162 against each other.

[0131] Optionally, the permanent filter 20 can also be used. This comprises a holding frame 210 to which a filter element 212 is attached. In the operating position, the filter element 212 extends transversely to the direction of gravity. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the filter element 212 is made of a nonwoven material.

[0132] The retaining frame 210 has a circumferential clamping wall section 214 with two clamping surfaces 216 and 218 facing away from each other. In the operating position, the clamping wall section 214 widens continuously in cross-section in one direction opposite to the direction of gravity. It is also inclined relative to the longitudinal axis 26 by the clamping angle 86.

[0133] A circumferential flange 220 projects from the circumferential edge of the clamping wall section 214, which points towards the technical unit 14, and extends away from the longitudinal axis 26. A double S-shaped frame section 222 extends from the other end of the clamping wall section 214, defining an upwardly open circumferential groove 224 and a circumferential groove 226 that opens towards the collection container 12. The filter element 212 is held at the free end of the frame section 222.

[0134] The special shape of the described retaining frame 210 allows the permanent filter 20 to be used to close the collection container opening 42. In this configuration, the flange 220 rests on the top of the collection container 36, and the clamping surface 216 of the clamping wall section 214 rests against the first clamping surface 84 on the collection container 12. The clamping surface 218 rests against the second clamping surface 162 when the technical unit 14 is attached. The technical unit 14 engages in the groove 224 with a circumferential projection 228, on which the second clamping surface 162 is formed.

[0135] The groove 226 is positioned so that the frame plate 202 of the suction bag 200 can engage in it, thereby holding the suction bag 200 in a defined manner as described at the suction port 52.

[0136] If the permanent filter 20 is inserted, the clamping wall section 214 is held clampingly between the clamping surfaces 84 and 162.

[0137] The optional HEPA filter 22 can be coupled to the technical unit 14 in the operating position. It is then arranged in such a way that it completely closes the air duct inlet 102. Therefore, only air that has passed through the HEPA filter 22 can flow through the air duct inlet 102.

[0138] The particulate filter 22 comprises a particulate filter frame 230 and a particulate filter element 232 held thereon. The particulate filter element 232 is designed in the form of a HEPA filter element.

[0139] A second snap-fit ​​or latching connection device 234 serves to temporarily connect the particulate filter 22 to the technical unit 14. This device comprises cooperating latching elements 236 on the one hand on the particulate filter frame 230 and on the other hand on the technical unit 14, namely on the lower housing part 90 of the housing 88. Figure 8The schematic shows how the particulate filter 22 is connected to the housing 88 in a snap-fit ​​manner.

[0140] In Figure 6 This is shown schematically when both the HEPA filter 22 is connected to the technical unit 14 and the permanent filter 20 is also used. In the Figure 6 In the illustrated operating position, the HEPA filter 22 is therefore arranged between the permanent filter 20 and the air duct inlet 102. Air drawn from the collection container 12 by the suction device 32 then flows first through the permanent filter 20, then through the HEPA filter 22, and finally through the air duct inlet 102 and the opening 104 into the blower chamber 106. Naturally, the permanent filter 20 and the HEPA filter 22 can also be used in combination with the suction bag 200.

[0141] So far, only a clamping connection between the collection container 12 and the technical unit 14 has been described. To prevent the collection container 12 from detaching from the technical unit 14 due to its weight, a locking device 238 is provided on the suction device 10. It serves to secure the connection between the collection container 12 and the technical unit 14 in the operating position.

[0142] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the securing device 238 comprises a securing element 240, which holds the collection container 12 in the operating position on the technical unit 14. It is designed in the form of a band 242, with a first end 244 of the band being attached to a lower end 246 of the support frame 164. The band 242 partially surrounds the collection container 12, specifically the underside 38 of the collection container, and runs along the front wall section 46 of the collection container 12.

[0143] A second end 248 of the band 242 is formed in the form of a loop and is held on a retaining pin 250 oriented transversely to the direction of gravity on a tensioning lever 252. The tensioning lever 252 is pivotally mounted at one end on a bearing pin 254. The bearing pin 254 extends parallel to the retaining pin 250 and is held at the lower end 256 of a retaining hook 258. An upper end 260 of the retaining hook 258 is bent towards the longitudinal axis 26 and back towards the collection container 12, defining a retaining groove 262.

[0144] In the operating position, the safety device 238 is locked, as shown schematically in Figure 12As shown, a recess is formed on the technical unit 14 between the outlet areas 136 and 138, in which a projection 264 is formed that points away from the collecting container 12. This projection engages in the retaining groove 262 of the retaining hook 258. The tensioning lever 252 is pivoted with its free end towards the front of the technical unit 14. In this position, the retaining pin 250 is arranged above the bearing pin 254, and the belt 242 is tensioned around the bottom of the collecting container 12.

[0145] To detach the collection container 12 from the technical unit 14, the clamping lever 252 must be pivoted away from the technical unit with its free end about a pivot axis extending transversely to the longitudinal axis 26 from the bearing pin 254. During this pivoting movement, the retaining pin 250 also moves about the pivot axis, first away from the collection container 12 and then back towards it. This releases the belt 242, and the retaining hook 258 can be detached from the technical unit 14 by moving it upwards, so that the projection 264 exposes the retaining groove 262. The belt 242, guided in a groove 266 formed on the outside of the collection container 12, can now be removed, and the collection container 12 can be lifted downwards. The described design of the suction device 10 as a canister vacuum 30 ensures that dirt cannot fall out of the collection container 12, regardless of whether a suction bag 200 is used or not.

[0146] In the manner described, the suction device 10 is equipped with a tool-free coupling mechanism 268 for detachably connecting the safety element 240 to the technical unit 14. In an alternative embodiment, the other end of the safety element 240 can optionally also be coupled to the backpack device 16 in a similar tool-free manner.

[0147] The described suction device 10 has a schematic structure as described in Figure 16 As shown. In the operating position, the technical unit 14 is arranged between the battery 18 and the collection container 12.

[0148] The described suction device 10, also known as a backpack vacuum, can be designed to be very lightweight and compact in the manner described, with excellent performance data; in particular, a high vacuum pressure with a large flow rate, a long operating time and very good ergonomics can be achieved.

[0149] The partially symmetrical design of the collection container 12 makes it possible to connect it to the suction port 52 on the left or right with the technical unit 14, so that the suction device 10 can be used for either left- or right-handed operation.

[0150] In further embodiments, different sized collection containers 12 can be used, so that different sized collection containers 12 can be used for different applications. Reference symbol list

[0151] 10 Vacuum cleaner 12 Collection container 14 Technical unit 16 Backpack 18 Battery 20 Permanent filter 22 HEPA filter 24 Protective housing 26 Longitudinal axis 28 Arrow 30 Canister vacuum cleaner 32 Suction device 34 Recording chamber 36 Collection container top 38 Collection container bottom 40 Collection container wall 42 Collection container opening 44 Rear wall section 46 Front wall section 48 Side wall section 50 Side wall section 52 Suction connection 54 Suction connection longitudinal axis 56 Coupling piece 58 Coupling piece 60 Suction hose 62 Coupling piece 64 Suction tube 66 End 68 Suction nozzle 70 Floor nozzle 72 Coupling piece 74 Suction nozzle 76 Suction nozzle 78 Mirror plane 80 Mirror plane 82 Base 84 First clamping surface 86 Clamping bracket 88 Housing 90 Lower housing part 92 Base plate 94 Upper housing part 96 Upper housing 98 Coupling device 100 Lower housing 102 Air duct inlet 104 Opening 106 Blower chamber 108 Blower 110 Rotor 112 Electric motor 114 Longitudinal axis 116 Outlet opening 118 Distribution compartment 120 Upper outlet 122 Lower outlet 124 Right outlet chamber126 Left exhaust chamber 128 Front 130 Exhaust opening 132 Surroundings 134 Pressure side 136 Right exhaust area 138 Left exhaust area 140 Exhaust slot 142 Exhaust slot 144 Front 146 Air guide device 148 Air guide duct 150 Air guide duct 152 Control chamber 154 Control device 156 Vacuum side 158 First locking or snap connection device 160 Opening 162 Second clamping surface 164 Carrying frame 166 Shoulder strap 168 Retaining hook 170 Retaining element 172 Accessory 174 Clip arm 176 Carrying handle 178 Connection contact 180 Spring 182 Lever 184 Projection 186 Recess 188 Sliding element 190 Swivel axis 192 Actuating surface 194 Sliding surface 196 End 198 Side surface 200 Suction bag 202 Frame plate 204 Opening 206 Section 208 Interior 210 Retaining frame 212 Filter element 214 Clamping wall section 216 Clamping surface 218 Clamping surface 220 Flange 222 Frame section 224 Groove 226 Groove 228 Projection 230 HEPA filter frame 232 HEPA filter element 234 Second locking or snap connection device 236 Locking element238 Locking device 240 Locking element 242 Band 244 First end 246 Lower end 248 Second end 250 Retaining pin 252 Tensioning lever 254 Bearing pin 256 Lower end 258 Retaining hook 260 Upper end 262 Retaining groove 264 Projection 266 Groove 268 Coupling mechanism

Claims

1. Battery-operated backpack suction appliance (10), comprising a collection container (12), a technical unit (14) connected to the collection container (12) in an operating position of the suction appliance (10), and a backpack device (16) connected to the collection container (12) and / or the technical unit (14) in the operating position for the suction appliance (10) to be worn on the back of an operator, wherein the collection container (12) is made of a foamed plastic material and in that the collection container (12) is configured to be removable from the technical unit (14) in a toolless manner, wherein the suction appliance (10) comprises a battery (18), in particular a rechargeable battery (18), and wherein the technical unit (14) comprises a housing (88), characterized in that the suction appliance comprises a coupling device for mechanically coupling the battery to the housing of the technical unit, and in that the technical unit or the housing thereof comprise part of the coupling device.

2. Suction appliance in accordance with Claim 1, characterized in that a) the suction appliance (10), in particular the technical unit (14), comprises a suction device (32), wherein in particular the technical unit (14) comprises a control device (154) that cooperates with the suction device (32), and / or b) current-carrying and current-conducting components are arranged or formed exclusively in or on the technical unit (14) and / or c) the coupling device is configured in such a way that an electrical connection between the technical unit and the battery is formed in order to be able to supply electrical components of the technical unit with electrical energy from the battery.

3. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the housing (88) a) is made of a plastic material, in particular a thermoset, a thermoplastic, a glass fiber-reinforced plastic, or of a mixture of one or more thermosets and / or thermoplastics, and / or b) is formed by injection molding, in particular by a compact injection molding process.

4. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that a) the technical unit (14) and the battery (18) are mechanically and electrically completely separated from one another in a separated position and are mechanically and electrically coupled to one another in a coupling position and / or b) the technical unit (14) is arranged between the battery (18) and the collection container (12) in the operating position and / or c) the housing (88) comprises a housing top side (96) and a housing bottom side (100), in that the housing top side (96) and the housing bottom side (100) face in opposite directions, and in that in the operating position the battery (18) is connected to the housing top side (96) and the housing bottom side (100) is connected to the collection container (12), wherein in particular - the housing bottom side (100) in the operating position closes the collection container (12), in particular a collection container top side (36) of the collection container (12) and / or - an air channel inlet (102) is arranged or formed on the housing bottom side (100), wherein further in particular the air channel inlet (102) is fluidically connected to a negative pressure side (156) of the suction device (32).

5. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the technical unit (14) is at least partially surrounded by a protective housing (24), wherein in particular the protective housing (24) a) is of one-piece or multi-part, in particular two-part, configuration and / or b) or components thereof are configured to be connectable to the technical unit (14) and to one another in a toolless manner, in particular by a first latching or snapping connecting device (158), and / or c) is made of a foamed plastic material, in particular of the same foamed plastic material as the collection container (12), and / or d) is connected to the backpack device (16).

6. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the backpack device (16) comprises a support frame (164) and two shoulder straps (166) arranged or formed on the support frame (164), wherein in particular a) the technical unit (14) is connected to the support frame (164) and / or b) the support frame (164) is connected to the protective housing (24) and / or c) at least part of the protective housing (24) is arranged between the support frame (164) and the technical unit (14).

7. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that a) the collection container (12) defines a receiving space (34) and comprises a collection container top side (36), a collection container bottom side (38), and a peripheral collection container wall (40) extending from the collection container bottom side (38) to the collection container top side (36), and in that the collection container top side (38) is open, in particular completely or substantially completely, wherein in particular the peripheral collection container wall (40) comprises a rear wall portion (44), a front wall portion (46) opposite said rear wall portion (44), and two lateral wall portions (48, 50) connecting the rear wall portion (44) and the front wall portion (46) to one another and extending opposite one another, and / or b) a suction port (52) that is connected or connectable to a suction hose is arranged or formed on the collection container (12), in particular on one of the two lateral wall portion (48, 50), wherein in particular the suction appliance (10) comprises a suction hose (60), which, on the one hand, is connectable or connected to the suction port (52) and, on the other hand, comprises a suction nozzle (74) and / or is coupleable to a suction nozzle (68) or a suction pipe (64), wherein further in particular the suction appliance (10) comprises a suction pipe (64) and in that the suction pipe (64), on the one hand, is coupleable to the suction hose (60) and, on the other hand, comprises a suction nozzle and / or is coupleable to a suction nozzle (68).

8. Suction appliance in accordance with Claim 7, characterized in that the collection container top side (36) of the collection container (12) is of mirror symmetrical configuration with respect to two mirror planes (78, 80) extending perpendicularly to one another, wherein in particular a) the two mirror planes (78, 80) intersect in a line of intersection and the line of intersection defines a longitudinal axis (26) of the collection container (12) and / or b) the collection container (12) as a whole is of mirror symmetrical or substantially mirror symmetrical configuration with respect to the two mirror planes (78, 80) and / or c) the housing bottom side (102) is of mirror symmetrical configuration with respect to the two mirror planes (78, 80).

9. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that a) the technical unit (14) and the collection container (12) are clampingly held against one another in the operating position and / or b) formed on the collection container (12) is a peripheral first clamping face (84), which has a cross section that increases in the direction toward the technical unit (14), wherein in particular formed on the housing (88) is a peripheral second clamping face (162), which abuts against the first clamping face (84) in the operating position.

10. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the suction appliance (10) comprises a securing device (238) for securing a connection of the collection container (12) and the technical unit (14) in the operating position, wherein in particular a) the securing device (238) comprises at least one securing member (240), which holds the collection container (12) against the technical unit (14) in the operating position, and / or b) the at least one securing member (240) in the operating position at least partially engages around the collection container (12), in particular the collection container bottom side (38), and is connected to the backpack device (16) on the one hand and to the technical unit (14), in particular the front side of the housing (88), on the other hand, and / or c) the suction appliance (10) comprises a toolless coupling mechanism (268) for releasably connecting the at least one securing member (240) to the backpack device (16) and / or to the technical unit (14).

11. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the suction appliance (10) comprises a permanent filter (20) and in that the permanent filter (20) in the operating position is held between the technical unit (14) and the collection container (12), wherein in particular the permanent filter (20) comprises a holding frame (210) and a filter element (212), in particular in the form of a nonwoven, held on the holding frame (210), wherein further in particular the holding frame (210) comprises a peripheral clamping wall portion (214), the clamping wall portion (214) comprises two clamping faces (216, 218) that face away from one another, and the clamping faces (216, 218) in the operating position abut against the first clamping face (84) on the one hand and against the second clamping face (162) on the other hand.

12. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of Claims 4 to 11, characterized in that an air channel inlet (102) is arranged or formed on the housing bottom side (100) and in that the suction appliance (10) comprises a particulate filter (22), which in the operating position closes the air channel inlet (102), wherein in particular the particulate filter (22) a) in the operating position is coupled to the technical unit (14) and / or b) in the operating position is arranged or formed between the permanent filter (20) and the air channel inlet (102) and / or c) comprises a particulate filter frame (230) and a particulate filter element (232) held thereon and the particulate filter frame (230) is coupled to the technical unit (14) in the operating position, in particular by a second latching or snapping connecting device (234).

13. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of Claims 2 to 12, characterized in that a blow-out opening (130) is arranged or formed on the suction appliance (10) and in that a pressure side (134) of the suction device (32) is fluidically connected to the blow-out opening (130), wherein in particular the blow-out opening (130) a) comprises a plurality of blow-out slits (140, 142), wherein in particular the blow-out slits (140, 142) are arranged or formed on the housing (88), and / or b) is arranged or formed on a front side (144) of the suction appliance (10) and / or c) is arranged or formed on the technical unit (14), in particular on a front side of the technical unit (14), and / or d) defines at least two outlet regions (136, 138), an air guidance device (146) is arranged or formed on the technical unit (14), the air guidance device (146) comprises at least two air guidance channels (148, 150) that are separate from one another and that each are fluidically connected to the pressure side (134) of the suction device (32) on the one hand and to a respective one of the at least two outlet regions (136, 138) on the other hand.

14. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that feet (82) are arranged or formed on the collection container (12), wherein in particular the feet (82) are molded on the collection container bottom side (38).

15. Suction appliance in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that a) the suction appliance (10) comprises a suction bag (200), in that the suction bag (200) comprises a suction bag opening (204), in that the suction bag (200) is arranged in the collection container (12), and in that the suction bag opening (204) and a suction port (52) of the suction appliance (10) are fluidically connected to one another in the operating position, wherein in particular the suction bag (200) is of air-permeable configuration, and / or b) at least one holding element (170) for an accessory (172), in particular for a suction pipe (64) or a suction hose (60), is arranged or formed on the backpack device (16), and / or c) the suction appliance (10) comprises a carrying handle (176) and in that the carrying handle (176) is arranged or formed on the suction appliance (10) on an appliance side that faces away from the collection container (12), wherein in particular - the carrying handle (176) in the operating position is connected to the backpack device (16) on the one hand and to the technical unit (14) or part of the protective housing (24) on the other hand and / or - a center of gravity of the suction appliance (10) in the operating position when a longitudinal axis (26) of the suction appliance (10) is oriented in parallel to the direction of gravity (28) lies below the carrying handle (176), and / or d) the suction appliance (10) is configured in the form of a canister vacuum cleaner (30).