Suction nozzle with overlapping sealing elements

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a suction nozzle for a suction device, in particular for a handheld vacuum cleaner or for a robotic vacuum cleaner.

[0002] A vacuum device typically has a suction nozzle with a suction opening through which an airflow draws contaminants or dirt, especially dust particles, from a floor to be cleaned. This airflow can be generated by a fan. The airflow propels the dirt from the suction opening into a dirt collection container within the vacuum device.

[0003] Dust pickup from carpets and / or hard floors, especially when cleaning surfaces with gaps and / or crevices, is typically facilitated by a good seal between the suction nozzle and the floor being cleaned. This seal creates particularly high negative pressure under the nozzle, which loosens and carries away dirt particles. The seal can be achieved with a rubber lip and / or fusible strips. However, this type of seal has the disadvantage that coarse dirt – especially during the return stroke of the suction nozzle, i.e., when the nozzle is moved backward – is pushed behind the nozzle and not vacuumed up.

[0004] This document addresses the technical problem of providing a suction nozzle for a suction device that enables reliable and thorough collection of dust and coarse dirt. A suction nozzle according to the preamble of claim 1 is disclosed, for example, in US-A-2807825.

[0005] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claim. Advantageous embodiments are defined in particular in the dependent patent claims, described in the following description, or illustrated in the accompanying drawing.

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a suction nozzle for a suction device (in particular for a vacuum cleaner or a robotic vacuum cleaner) is described. The suction nozzle can have a longitudinal axis extending along the working direction (intended for the suction nozzle). Furthermore, the suction nozzle can have a transverse axis arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A plane can be defined by the longitudinal and transverse axes that runs parallel to the surface to be cleaned, on which the suction nozzle is positioned during operation of the suction device. The suction nozzle can also have a vertical axis arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse axes. A Cartesian coordinate system is defined by the longitudinal, transverse, and vertical axes.

[0007] The suction nozzle comprises (within the nozzle housing) a suction opening, with the opening facing the surface to be cleaned (e.g., the floor) during operation. The suction opening may have transverse edges extending along the transverse axis and / or longitudinal edges extending along the longitudinal axis. The suction nozzle may be designed to be moved, in particular pushed, in a forward direction (along the longitudinal axis). The suction opening may have a front transverse edge positioned at the front with respect to the forward direction and a rear transverse edge positioned at the rear with respect to the forward direction.

[0008] The suction nozzle further comprises an arrangement of spaced-apart sealing elements located on its underside. Each sealing element can have a curved shape. Preferably, the individual sealing elements can be circular, oval, egg-shaped, or teardrop-shaped. In particular, the (closed) contour of each sealing element can be circular, oval, egg-shaped, or teardrop-shaped. Furthermore, the area enclosed by the contour of each sealing element can be completely filled with (sealing) material.

[0009] If the individual sealing elements have a shape that deviates from the circular shape, the sealing elements can have a main axis and a secondary axis, whereby the sealing elements can have a greater extent along the main axis than along the secondary axis (perpendicular to the main axis).

[0010] The sealing elements can each be made of a textile-based and / or compressible and / or elastic material. Furthermore, the sealing elements can each have a height along the vertical axis, which is, for example, between 4 mm and 8 mm.

[0011] The arrangement of sealing elements comprises, for example, a first row of sealing elements spaced one after the other along the transverse axis of the suction nozzle by a first transverse distance. In other words, directly adjacent sealing elements of the first row can each have a (constant) first transverse distance from each other. Furthermore, the arrangement of sealing elements comprises, for example, a second row of sealing elements spaced one after the other along the transverse axis by a second transverse distance. In other words, directly adjacent sealing elements of the second row can each have a (constant) second transverse distance from each other. The arrangement of sealing elements can comprise exactly one or at least two rows of sealing elements.

[0012] The first and second rows of sealing elements are arranged one behind the other along the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle. In a preferred example, the arrangement of sealing elements is located at the rear transverse edge of the suction nozzle opening. In this particular case, the first and second rows can be arranged one behind the other along the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle such that the first row of sealing elements faces away from the suction nozzle opening and the second row of sealing elements faces the suction nozzle opening. A dirt particle drawn into the suction nozzle by the arrangement of sealing elements can thus first pass through at least one sealing element of the first row and then at least one sealing element of the second row.

[0013] The sealing elements are preferably arranged such that sealing elements of the first row overlap along the longitudinal axis and / or along the transverse axis with sealing elements of the second row (without the sealing elements touching each other).

[0014] This describes a suction nozzle which has (at its rear transverse edge) an arrangement of locally insulated sealing elements, with a multitude of suction channels formed by the spaces between the sealing elements. The individual suction channels can extend along a flow direction (which essentially runs along the longitudinal axis) from a first end of the respective suction channel, facing away from the suction inlet opening, to a second end of the respective suction channel, facing the suction inlet opening. Dirt particles can be drawn through the individual dust channels along the flow direction. The overlap of the sealing elements from different rows can cause the individual suction channels to have a serpentine shape along the flow direction.The overlap allows for a particularly pronounced curvature of the serpentine path of the suction channels. This enables the creation of a suction nozzle with high suction power and excellent coarse dirt pickup (where the coarse dirt is drawn through the individual suction channels into the suction opening).

[0015] The sealing elements of the first row are preferably arranged offset from the sealing elements of the second row along the transverse axis, so that along the transverse axis, a sealing element of one row alternates with a sealing element of the other row. This offset arrangement further enhances the serpentine shape of the suction channels, thereby increasing the suction power of the suction nozzle.

[0016] Preferably, the suction nozzle has an arrangement of sealing elements only on the rear transverse edge and / or not on the front transverse edge of the suction opening. This allows for a suction nozzle that can reliably vacuum up dust and / or dirt particles in the immediate vicinity of a room wall in a forward direction.

[0017] When using sealing elements that deviate from a circular shape, the individual sealing elements are preferably arranged such that the main axis of each sealing element runs parallel to the longitudinal axis, and / or the narrow side of each sealing element faces away from the suction opening of the suction nozzle. In this way, funnels can be formed by arranging the sealing elements, providing a relatively large collection area for coarse dirt. This further improves the coarse dirt collection capacity.

[0018] The first transverse spacing (of the sealing elements in the first row) is preferably larger, in particular by 20% to 50%, than the second transverse spacing (of the sealing elements in the second row). As explained above, the first row of sealing elements can face away from the suction opening. By using a relatively large first transverse spacing, the funnel effect of the arrangement of sealing elements can be further enhanced, thereby further improving the suction nozzle's capacity to collect coarse dirt.

[0019] The sealing elements of the first row can have a first diameter, and the sealing elements of the second row can have a second diameter (e.g., along the main axis or along the secondary axis). The second diameter is preferably larger, in particular by 20% to 50%, than the first diameter. The first diameter can be, for example, 9 to 13 mm, preferably 10 mm. The second diameter can be, for example, 13 to 16 mm, preferably 14 mm. As explained above, the first row of sealing elements can face away from the suction opening. By using sealing elements in the first row that have a relatively small first diameter, the funneling effect of the arrangement of sealing elements can be further enhanced, thereby further improving the suction nozzle's capacity to collect coarse dirt.

[0020] The first and / or second row of sealing elements can each comprise 5 or more, in particular 10 or more, sealing elements. In particular, the first row can comprise exactly 8 to 12, preferably exactly 9 to 11, and in particular exactly 10 sealing elements. The second row can comprise exactly 9 to 13, preferably exactly 10 to 12, and in particular exactly 11 sealing elements. By using such a number of sealing elements (and a corresponding number of suction channels), a particularly advantageous compromise between suction performance and coarse dirt holding capacity can be achieved.

[0021] The overlap along the transverse axis can be 5 to 20%, particularly 10 to 15%, of the second diameter of the sealing elements in the second row. The overlap along the longitudinal axis can be 5 to 20%, particularly 10 to 15%, of the first diameter of the sealing elements in the first row. Such an overlap allows serpentine suction channels to be formed, providing a particularly advantageous compromise between suction performance and coarse dirt holding capacity.

[0022] The individual suction channels can exhibit at least one change in the direction of curvature along the flow direction. Specifically, the individual suction channels can have a curvature in a first direction in a first section, and a curvature in a second section following the flow direction, opposite to the first. This change in curvature reduces the pressure loss within the arrangement of sealing elements, thereby increasing the suction capacity. The change in curvature can be achieved efficiently and reliably by the multi-row arrangement of sealing elements.

[0023] The individual suction channels of the multiple suction channels can each have a cross-section at their first end with a first cross-sectional area that is larger than the second cross-sectional area at their second end. The first cross-sectional area can be 20% to 50% larger than the second. In other words, the individual suction channels of the multiple suction channels can each be funnel-shaped from their first end to their second end. This can be achieved, for example, by using different lateral spacings between the sealing elements in the first and second rows. The funnel effect of the sealing element arrangement can further improve the capacity to collect coarse dirt.

[0024] The individual suction channels can be limited along the vertical axis by the surface to be cleaned and by the underside of the suction nozzle. The flow direction can be perpendicular to the vertical axis (within the plane formed by the longitudinal and transverse axes). Furthermore, the individual suction channels can be limited along the transverse axis by directly adjacent sealing elements.

[0025] The arrangement of sealing elements is preferably designed such that the suction channels, in particular evenly distributed, are arranged along the entire rear transverse edge. Five or more, in particular ten or more, suction channels can be arranged along the rear transverse edge, e.g., between eight and twelve. The uniform provision of suction channels along the transverse axis ensures a uniform suction effect (for coarse dirt).

[0026] The individual suction channels can have a cross-section perpendicular to the flow direction, which must not fall below a minimum width along the entire length of the channel, from the first end to the second end. This minimum width can be, for example, between 3 mm and 6 mm. This ensures reliable collection of coarse dirt.

[0027] The sealing elements of the second row of the arrangement of sealing elements (i.e., the row facing the suction opening) can each have a transverse edge extending in a straight line along the transverse axis on the side facing the suction opening, which in particular corresponds to a secant of the base contour of the respective sealing element. As already explained above, the base contour of the individual sealing elements is preferably circular, oval, egg-shaped, or teardrop-shaped. The individual sealing elements of the second row can each be truncated on the side facing the suction opening, resulting in a straight transverse edge. Consequently, the effective contour of the individual sealing elements corresponds (apart from the straight transverse edge) to the base contour and to the straight transverse edge on the side facing the suction opening.

[0028] The sealing elements of the second row can therefore be shortened along the longitudinal axis. This allows the overall spatial extent of the arrangement of sealing elements, and consequently of the suction nozzle, to be reduced along the longitudinal axis without significantly impairing the efficiency of coarse dirt collection.

[0029] The underside of the suction nozzle, facing the surface to be cleaned, can slope diagonally from a bend line running along the longitudinal axis towards the suction opening. The underside of the suction nozzle can, for example, be positioned at a specific base distance from the surface to be cleaned. From the bend line, this distance can decrease gradually, reaching a specific minimum distance at the edge of the suction opening. Such a design of the underside of the suction nozzle allows for a particularly advantageous suction opening shape (e.g., for accommodating a brush roller).

[0030] The transverse edges of the sealing elements in the second row can each be positioned at the bend line. The sealing elements can then extend away from the suction opening, starting from the bend line (along the longitudinal axis).

[0031] By placing the arrangement of sealing elements directly at the bend line, a particularly compact suction nozzle can be provided.

[0032] The basic contour of the individual sealing elements can be designed such that the width of each sealing element increases smoothly along the transverse axis in a first section towards the suction opening (e.g., starting from zero) up to a maximum width, and then decreases smoothly from this maximum width in a subsequent second section (e.g., back to zero). The sealing elements can thus each have a width that increases in the first section and decreases again in the subsequent second section. At the intermediate point between the first and second sections, each individual sealing element can have a specific maximum width. The maximum width of the sealing elements in the second row can be greater (e.g., by 20% or more) than the maximum width of the sealing elements in the first row.The basic contour can be the same for all sealing elements in the arrangement of sealing elements (both in the first row and in the second row).

[0033] As explained above, the sealing elements of the first row can have a first diameter, and the sealing elements of the second row can have a second diameter. The second diameter can be larger than the first diameter. The first diameter can correspond to the maximum width of the sealing elements of the first row, and the second diameter can correspond to the maximum width of the sealing elements of the second row.

[0034] The increase in width of the base contour can occur in the first section and / or the second section along an outwardly curved path (resulting, for example, in a teardrop, oval, circular, or egg shape). The first section can have a first length, and the second section can have a second length along the longitudinal axis. The first length can be equal to or greater than the second length, for example, by 20% or more. The latter is particularly true for teardrop and egg shapes.

[0035] By designing the sealing elements in this way, particularly advantageously shaped (serpentine) suction channels can be provided between the sealing elements for the absorption of coarse dirt.

[0036] The straight transverse edges of the sealing elements in the second row can each be positioned in the second section of the respective sealing element, particularly at a distance from the intermediate point that corresponds to between 20% and 80% of the second length. The individual sealing elements of the second row can thus be truncated in the second section (after the intermediate point and after the maximum width has been reached and the width of the individual sealing elements decreases again). This ensures that the straight transverse edges of the sealing elements do not significantly impede the airflow in the suction ducts, thus maintaining a particularly high level of coarse dirt filtration.

[0037] Preferably, only the sealing elements of the second row have a straight transverse edge. The sealing elements of the first row can have the complete base contour. This allows for a particularly compact suction nozzle with especially good coarse dirt pickup.

[0038] According to another aspect, a suction device for cleaning a surface (especially a floor) is described. The suction device can be designed as a vacuum cleaner, a robotic vacuum cleaner, or a (possibly multi-use) handheld device. The suction device includes the suction nozzle described in this document. Furthermore, the suction device typically includes a fan designed to create a suction airflow through the suction nozzle.

[0039] It should be noted that any aspects of the suction nozzle and / or suction device described in this document can be combined in a variety of ways. In particular, the features of the claims can be combined in a variety of ways.

[0040] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawing.

[0041] This shows: Figure 1 an exemplary suction nozzle; Figure 2a a side view of a suction nozzle; Figure 2b a sectional view of a suction nozzle; Figure 3a a view of a bottom side of a suction nozzle; Figure 3b exemplary dimensions of the sealing elements on the bottom side of a suction nozzle; Figure 4 differently shaped sealing elements; Figure 5 a side view of several sealing elements; Figure 6a a sectional view of a suction nozzle; Figure 6b a suction nozzle with an exemplary arrangement of cut-off sealing elements; and Figure 6c a suction nozzle with another exemplary arrangement of cut-off sealing elements.

[0042] As stated at the outset, this document deals with the provision of a suction nozzle for a vacuum device that enables the reliable and thorough collection of (relatively small) dust particles and (relatively large) coarse dirt. In this context, it shows Fig. 1 a suction nozzle 100, in particular a floor nozzle, for a hand-held suction device, wherein the suction nozzle 100 has a suction mouth 101 on the underside facing the floor to be cleaned.

[0043] Fig. 2a shows an exemplary side view of the suction nozzle 100. Fig. 1 In particular, it shows Fig. 2a The suction nozzle 101 is located on the underside of the suction nozzle 100, positioned above the surface 220 to be cleaned, in particular above the floor to be cleaned. The suction nozzle 100 can have one or more wheels 203 arranged such that the one or more wheels 203 roll on the surface 220 to be cleaned when the suction nozzle 101 faces the surface 220 to be cleaned. The suction nozzle 100 can be designed to be pushed forward by a user of the suction device and pulled backward in the opposite direction. The one or more wheels 203 can be positioned in the rear region of the suction nozzle 100 and / or behind the suction nozzle 101 with respect to the forward direction. The forward and reverse directions can be along the x-axis of the Fig. 2a The depicted Cartesian coordinate system runs along the lines. The x-axis can also be referred to as the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle 100.

[0044] The in Fig. 2a The suction nozzle 100 shown has a sealing strip 202 on its underside, which is designed to seal the suction opening 101 against the surface 220 to be cleaned, so that a negative pressure is created at the suction opening 101, the negative pressure being aggravated by the suction opening 101 to attract dirt particles, in particular dust particles. The sealing strip 202 can extend continuously along at least one edge of the suction opening 101. Fig. 2a The sealing strip 202 shown is arranged on the rear transverse edge of the suction opening 101, which extends along the y-axis of the Fig. 2a The depicted Cartesian coordinate system runs along this line. The y-axis can also be referred to as the transverse axis of the suction nozzle 100.

[0045] Fig. 2b shows a section along the in Fig. 1 depicted section plane A - A. From Fig. 2b It can be seen that the suction nozzle 100 has a (possibly electrically driven) brush roller 204 inside the suction mouth 101, which is designed to act mechanically through the suction mouth opening of the suction mouth 101 on the surface 220 to be cleaned in order to loosen dirt particles. The axis of rotation of the brush roller 204 can correspond to the transverse axis of the suction nozzle 100. Furthermore, it shows Fig. 2b a wheel 205 arranged on the front of the suction nozzle 100, which further improves the mobility of the suction nozzle 100 over the surface 220 to be cleaned.

[0046] The use of a continuous sealing strip 202, which runs along the entire rear transverse edge of the suction opening 101 of the suction nozzle 100, has the disadvantage that relatively large dirt particles, i.e., coarse dirt, cannot pass through the sealing strip 202 and are therefore, especially when the suction nozzle 100 moves backward, pushed in front of the suction opening 101 and thus not sucked up. A continuous sealing strip 202 therefore impairs the coarse dirt pickup of the suction nozzle 100, especially during a backward movement, i.e., during a return stroke.

[0047] Fig. 3a and 3bFigure 1 shows the underside of a suction nozzle 100, wherein the suction nozzle 100 has a sealing strip 202 with a plurality of curved sealing elements 300 at the rear transverse edge 301 of the suction mouth 101, wherein the individual sealing elements 300 are spaced apart from each other, so that a suction channel 302 with a curved, in particular serpentine, course is formed between directly adjacent sealing elements 300.

[0048] The individual suction channels 302 each extend (with respect to the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle 100) from the rear area of ​​the suction nozzle 100 to the rear transverse edge 301 of the suction mouth 101. This direction can be referred to as the flow direction 303, since the suction air flows through the individual suction channels 302 along this direction.

[0049] The individual suction channels 302 are arranged with respect to the z-axis of the in Fig. 3a The Cartesian coordinate system shown (which can also be referred to as the height axis of the suction nozzle 100) is bounded on the one hand by the surface 220 to be cleaned and on the other hand by the underside of the suction nozzle 100. Furthermore, the individual suction channels 302 are bounded in the transverse direction (i.e., with respect to the y-axis) by the individual sealing elements 300, each of which has a specific height along the height axis (i.e., along the z-axis).

[0050] The individual suction channels 302 have a cross-section (perpendicular to the flow direction) that is adapted to the maximum diameter of the dirt particles that the suction nozzle 100 is intended to pick up. If the suction nozzle 100 is designed to pick up protective particles with a diameter of d mm (e.g., d between 1 and 5 mm), the individual suction channels 302 can be designed such that the cross-section of the individual suction channels 302 along the entire channel length in the flow direction does not fall below the diameter d.

[0051] By providing a large number of locally insulated sealing elements 300, a sealing strip 202 with individual suction channels 302 can be provided, wherein the individual suction channels 302 are designed to guide relatively coarse dirt particles to the suction opening 101 of the suction nozzle 100. This improves the coarse dirt pickup of the suction nozzle 100.

[0052] The use of curved sealing elements 300 further results in the individual suction channels 302 being curved along the flow direction 302. The individual suction channels 302 preferably exhibit at least one change in the direction of curvature along the channel length. In particular, a suction channel 302 can have a first section (along the flow direction) in which the suction channel 302 has a curvature in a first direction (e.g., towards a first longitudinal edge of the suction opening 101), and a subsequent second section (along the flow direction) in which the suction channel 302 has a curvature in an opposite second direction (e.g., towards the opposite second longitudinal edge of the suction opening 101).By providing suction channels 302 that have at least one change in curvature along the direction of flow, the pressure loss of the suction air at the opening of the suction mouth 101 (caused by the individual suction channels 302) can be reduced, so that the suction nozzle 100 continues to have a high suction performance.

[0053] The individual suction channels 302 are preferably funnel-shaped with respect to the flow direction 303. In particular, a suction channel 302 can have a smaller cross-sectional area at the (second) end facing the suction opening 101 than at the (first) end facing away from the suction opening 101. This further improves the efficiency of the suction nozzle 100 with regard to the intake of coarse dirt.

[0054] In the Figuren 3a and 3bIn the illustrated example, the sealing strip 202 has (exactly) two rows 305, 306 of sealing elements 300, with each row 305, 306 of sealing elements 300 arranged along the transverse axis. The sealing elements 300 are each circular in shape. The sealing elements 300 in the second row 306 (facing the suction opening 101) have a larger second diameter 312 than the sealing elements 300 in the first row 305 (facing away from the suction opening 101), which have a first diameter 311. The second diameter 312 can be, for example, between 12 and 16 mm, approximately 14 mm, and / or the first diameter 311 can be, for example, between 8 and 12 mm, approximately 10 mm. The second diameter 312 can be, for example, between 8 and 12 mm, approximately 10 mm. B. be 20 - 50% larger than the first diameter 311.By using sealing elements 300 of different sizes, arranged in several transverse rows 305, 306, the serpentine and / or funnel-shaped suction channels 302 can be provided in a particularly efficient and reliable manner.

[0055] The sealing elements 300 in the first row 305 can each have a (uniform) first transverse spacing 315 from each other along the transverse axis. Furthermore, the sealing elements 300 in the second row 306 can each have a (uniform) second transverse spacing 316 along the transverse axis. The first transverse spacing 315 can be larger than the second transverse spacing 316. This allows the funnel shape of the individual suction channels 302 to be further enhanced. The first transverse spacing 315 can be between 11 and 15 mm, e.g., 13 mm, and / or the second transverse spacing 316 can be between 7 and 11 mm, e.g., 9 mm. The first transverse spacing 315 can be, for example, 20–50% larger than the second transverse spacing 316.

[0056] The sealing elements 300 are preferably arranged offset from one another along the transverse axis in the two rows 305, 306, such that along the transverse axis a sealing element 300 of the second row 306 is arranged in the gap between two directly consecutive sealing elements 300 of the first row 305, and / or such that along the transverse axis a sealing element 300 of the first row 305 is arranged in the gap between two directly consecutive sealing elements 300 of the second row 306. Such an offset arrangement of the sealing elements 300 in the two rows 305, 306 allows serpentine suction channels 302 to be provided in a particularly efficient and reliable manner.

[0057] The two rows 305, 306 of sealing elements 300 are preferably arranged so close to each other (with respect to the longitudinal axis) that the sealing elements 300 of the first row 305 each have an overlap 304 (along the longitudinal axis) with the sealing elements 300 of the second row 306. The overlap 304 can be, for example, between 1 and 3 mm, e.g., 2 mm. By using overlapping sealing elements 300, the serpentine shape of the individual suction channels 302 can be further enhanced, thereby reducing pressure loss and increasing suction performance.

[0058] On the other hand, the two rows 305, 306 of sealing elements 300 are preferably spaced so far apart (with respect to the longitudinal axis) that the minimum distance 317 (i.e., the smallest or minimum distance) between two directly adjacent sealing elements 300 (in different rows 305, 306) does not fall below a certain value, and thus the cross-sectional area of ​​the individual suction channels 302 does not fall below a certain value. The minimum distance 317 can depend on the diameter of the dirt particles that are to pass through the individual suction channels 302. The minimum distance 317 can, for example, be between 2 and 5 mm, e.g., at 3 mm. The minimum distance 317 can correspond to the smallest cross-sectional area of ​​the individual suction channels 302 of the sealing arrangement 202.

[0059] Fig. 4 Figure 1 shows differently shaped, curved sealing elements 300. The sealing elements 300 can, for example, have an oval shape 401, with the main axis of the oval sealing elements 300 preferably running parallel to the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle 100. Alternatively, the individual sealing elements 300 can have an egg shape 402, with the tip of the individual egg-shaped sealing elements 300 preferably facing away from the suction opening 101 of the suction nozzle 100. In another example, the individual sealing elements 300 can have a teardrop shape 403, with the (narrower) teardrop end preferably facing away from the suction opening 101 of the suction nozzle 100.

[0060] Fig. 5 Figure 1 shows a side view of individual sealing elements 300. Each of the individual sealing elements 300 can have bristle-like material 500 facing the surface 220 to be cleaned. This ensures a reliable seal between the individual air ducts 302 and the surface 220 to be cleaned.

[0061] Thus, a relatively high level of sealing between the suction nozzle 101 and the floor 220 (and therefore reliable dust collection) can be achieved by an arrangement 202 of several differently sized (possibly round) sealing elements 300, in particular bundles of fuzzy material (and thus reliable dust collection), in combination with sufficiently large openings for coarse material collection. A two-row arrangement 202 of sealing elements 300 can be selected to minimize the space required in the sliding direction (i.e., along the longitudinal direction). This allows the length of the floor nozzle 100 (along the longitudinal direction) to be limited. Furthermore, the path of coarse dirt through the sealing rows 305, 306 to the suction nozzle 101 can be limited. However, a sealing element arrangement 202 with more than two rows 305, 306 can also be used (which improves the quality of the seal).

[0062] In a single-row sealing arrangement 202, the suction air is typically drawn straight through the openings (i.e., straight suction channels 302 are formed), which can lead to a relatively high pressure loss under the nozzle 100, thereby impairing the suction performance of the suction nozzle 100.

[0063] The individual (circular) sealing elements 300 preferably overlap between the first row 305 and the second row 306 in the sliding direction of the nozzle 100. An overlap 314 along the longitudinal axis and / or an overlap 318 along the transverse axis can occur. This overlap 314, 318 causes the suction air to travel a longer – non-linear – path (within the individual suction channels 302), thus reducing the pressure loss.

[0064] A symmetrical arrangement of the sealing elements 300 ensures that the coarse dirt has an almost identical path to the suction opening 101 at every entry position behind the nozzle 100. As a result, the tilting of particles within the sealing arrangement 202 can be avoided, and the intake of coarse material can be improved.

[0065] Preferably, a sealing strip 202 is arranged (only) behind the suction nozzle 101 (i.e., at the rear transverse edge 301 of the suction nozzle 101), since most of the coarse material is picked up by the appropriate suction nozzle angle during the initial stroke. An additional seal at the front transverse edge of the suction nozzle 101 is therefore typically unnecessary and would increase the space required in the front area of ​​the suction nozzle 100, which would impair the pickup of dirt at the front of the suction nozzle 100 (e.g., against a wall).

[0066] The second diameter 312 of the front sealing elements 300 (i.e., the second row 306 of sealing elements 300) can be approximately 15 mm, and / or the first diameter 311 of the rear sealing elements 300 (i.e., the first row 305 of sealing elements 300) can be approximately 12 mm. For example, diameters 311 and 312 of 10–20 mm are conceivable.

[0067] The rear sealing elements 300 (305 in the first row) are preferably smaller compared to the front sealing elements 300 (306 in the second row) due to their reduced surface area and funnel effect. The funnel effect results in a relatively large collection area during the return stroke of the suction nozzle 100. This allows more coarse material to be directed towards the suction opening 101 and prevents coarse material from being pushed behind the nozzle 100.

[0068] The clear opening between the sealing elements 300 can be selected such that coarse dirt passes through the openings between the sealing elements 300 and that the pressure loss under the nozzle 100 is limited. A predominant portion of the rear suction airflow should be directed to the suction opening 101, and it can be ensured that only a minimal proportion flows through the fluffy material of the sealing elements 300. The clear opening 315, 316 in the transverse direction can be, for example, 4–8 mm in the front row 306 and / or 8–12 mm in the rear row 305. The clear opening 317 between the fluffy rows 305, 306 can be approximately 4–8 mm. An overlap 314 in the sliding direction between the first and second rows 305, 306 of 5–20% is possible. Alternatively or additionally, an overlap 318 transverse to the sliding direction (in pairs) can be present between sealing elements 300 of the first row 305 and sealing elements 300 of the second row 306. This can, for example,between 5 and 20%. For example, an overlap of 318 in the transverse direction of 0.4 mm (± 20%) may be present.

[0069] The height of the sealing elements 300 (along the vertical axis) can be approximately 6 mm, with the fuzzy material 500 of the individual sealing elements 300 preferably being compressible and / or elastic. The use of a compressible and / or elastic material allows for the compensation of unevenness in the ground 220, thus ensuring a consistently good seal against the ground 220. The fuzzy material 500 can be designed to be recessed (e.g., approximately 1 mm) into the ground 220 to guarantee continuous ground contact. Depending on the design of the nozzle 100, other heights and overlaps are also conceivable.

[0070] The plateau (i.e., the underside of the suction nozzle 100) on which the sealing elements 300 are arranged is preferably arranged parallel to the base 220. This ensures that each individual sealing element 300 seals equally well against the base 220.

[0071] Examples of materials 500 for the individual sealing elements 300 are textile-based materials, e.g., made from fibers such as cotton, velvet, calico, felt, satin, silk, burlap, synthetic fibers, thread lifters, velour, fabric, etc. Textile material is preferred because it is compressible and can compensate for tolerances in the ground clearance. Furthermore, these materials generate relatively little noise when moving across the ground 220 and are relatively durable. Due to a relatively low coefficient of friction, abrasive wear is relatively low.

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, non-textile-based materials can be used, such as leather, cork, wood, paper, cardboard, furs, plastic or animal bristles, foam materials, rubber, plastics, metals, etc.

[0073] As in Fig. 4 The sealing elements 300 can be shown to have a round shape or an oval shape 401, or be egg-shaped 402 or droplet-shaped 403.

[0074] Oval or egg-shaped sealing elements 300 preferably have their long side (i.e., the main axis) facing in the direction of travel. With an egg or droplet shape, it can be advantageous to position the narrow side (in the case of an egg) or the tip (in the case of a droplet) away from the suction opening 101. This positioning promotes the funnel effect described above, which results in a larger collection area during the return stroke. More coarse material is thus directed towards the suction opening 101 and not pushed behind the nozzle 100.

[0075] With the arrangement 202 of sealing elements 300 described in this document, it is possible to provide an optimized compromise between dust and coarse material intake. Coarse dirt still has a relatively short path to reach the suction opening 101 (in a serpentine pattern). The overlapping 314, 318 of sealing elements 300 in different rows 305, 306 improves the seal without impairing coarse material intake.

[0076] The multi-row, and in particular double-row, arrangement 202 of sealing elements 300 has the advantage that the air is not drawn in a straight line through the openings between the sealing elements 300, thus reducing the pressure loss below the nozzle 100. By using sealing elements 300 of different sizes, the space requirement in the longitudinal direction can be reduced. This allows for a relatively large clear opening with a relatively small longitudinal dimension. Furthermore, by using relatively small sealing elements 300 in the rear row 305, a relatively large collection area for coarse dirt can be provided during operation in the return stroke. The suction nozzle 100 preferably has an arrangement 202 of sealing elements 300 only on the rear side to enable particularly reliable suction in the forward direction (even near a wall).

[0077] A suction nozzle 100 is described, which has an offset and / or overlapping arrangement 202 of (round) sealing elements 300, in particular fusible elements, wherein the sealing elements 300 are arranged in two or more rows 305, 306. Furthermore, the sealing elements 300 are preferably (exclusively) arranged on the rear side of the suction opening 101. This allows a rear seal for a suction airflow to be achieved, so that a relatively high negative pressure can be built up against the floor 220, which is advantageous for improved crevice extraction. On the other hand, the existing gaps between the (optionally round) sealing elements 300 allow coarse dirt to pass through largely unhindered, so that the coarse dirt can be transported to the suction opening 101.

[0078] The number of sealing elements 300 of the second transverse row 306 (which is arranged directly behind the suction opening 101) can be 9 to 13, 10 to 12, and in particular 11 along the transverse axis (with a typical nozzle width of approximately 250 mm). The number of sealing elements 300 of the first transverse row 305 (which is arranged behind the second row 306) can be 8 to 12, 9 to 11, and in particular 10 along the transverse axis (with a typical nozzle width of approximately 250 mm).

[0079] A vacuum cleaner nozzle 100 with a housing is thus described, which has a suction opening 101 arranged on the underside of the housing and which extends along the transverse axis perpendicular to the working direction (i.e., the x- or longitudinal axis). In the working direction behind the suction opening 101, at least a first and second transverse row 305, 306 of individual (optionally round) sealing elements 300 can be arranged, wherein the sealing elements 300 are spaced apart from one another and / or offset. The sealing elements 300 of the first row 305 preferably have an overlap and / or overlap 314, 318 with the sealing elements 200 of the second row 306 at their maximum extension along the longitudinal axis and / or the transverse axis.

[0080] A suction airflow entering from the rear is thus not directed in a straight line, but only in a serpentine or S-shaped pattern, towards the suction opening 101. Suction channels 302 are thereby formed between the sealing elements 300, which guide the suction airflow with the particles to the suction opening 101.

[0081] The overlap 318 along the transverse axis can be 5–20%, particularly 10–15%, of the second diameter 312 of the sealing elements 300 of the second row 306. For example, an overlap 318 along the transverse axis of between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm, approximately 0.4 mm, can be present. The suction nozzle 100 can thus be optimized for operation with standard coarse dirt of size 0.7–3 mm, preferably 1–2 mm.

[0082] The overlap 314 along the longitudinal axis can be 0–20%, in particular 10–15%, of the first diameter 311 of the sealing elements 300 of the first row 305. The suction nozzle 100 can thereby be optimized for operation with standard coarse dirt of size 0–3 mm, preferably 1–2 mm.

[0083] The second diameter 312 of the sealing elements 300 of the second row 306 can be 13–16 mm (with a typical nozzle width of approximately 250 mm), preferably 14 mm (for the specific embodiment with standard coarse dirt). The first diameter 311 of the sealing elements 300 of the first row 305 can be 9–13 mm (with a typical nozzle width of approximately 250 mm), preferably 10 mm (for the specific embodiment with standard coarse dirt).

[0084] The free passage 317 between the sealing elements 300 (i.e., the minimum distance between the sealing elements 300 of the first and second rows 305, 306) can be 3 to 6 mm, particularly preferably 3.5 and 4.5 mm. The coarse dirt particles may optionally have a larger diameter. Due to the relatively soft sealing elements 300 and the elasticity of the material 500 of the sealing elements 300, the effective free distance between directly adjacent sealing elements 300 can increase. In particular, a relatively hard coarse dirt particle can cause the relatively soft sealing element 300 to expand, allowing the coarse dirt particle to pass through without necessarily increasing the free passage 317, which could lead to a reduced vacuum and thus a reduced suction capacity.The use of sealing elements 300 made of an elastic material 500 thus allows the use of a relatively small distance 317 between the sealing elements 300, thereby increasing the suction power of the suction nozzle 100.

[0085] The individual sealing elements 300 can extend in a working position on a base 220 4 to 7 mm, preferably 5 - 7 mm, and in particular 6 mm (in the special embodiment with the standard coarse dirt), along the height or z-axis.

[0086] Fig. 6a shows another sectional view of a suction nozzle (corresponding to the view from Fig. 2b As can be seen from the view, the underside 602 of the housing 600 of the suction nozzle 100, facing the surface 220 to be cleaned, has a varying distance 603 to the surface 220 to be cleaned. The housing 600 has a front and a back side along its longitudinal axis (i.e., the x-axis). For example, one or more front wheels 205 can be arranged on the front side. One or more rear wheels 203 can be arranged on the back side. The wheels 203, 205 can be used to define a specific distance 603 (e.g., a base distance) between the underside 602 of the housing 600 of the suction nozzle 100 and the surface 220 to be cleaned (with the wheels 203, 205 rolling on the surface 220 to be cleaned).

[0087] The individual sealing elements 300 of the arrangement 202 of sealing elements 300 can have a specific height along the vertical axis (i.e., along the z-axis). The height of the individual sealing elements 300 can correspond to the distance 603 between the underside 602 of the housing 600 and the surface 220 to be cleaned. This ensures that the individual sealing elements 300 contact the surface 220 to be cleaned during suction operation, thus acting as a barrier to the suction airflow. In this way, the (serpentine) suction channels 302 between the individual sealing elements 300 can be reliably formed.

[0088] As from the Figuren 2b and 6aAs can be seen, the underside 602 of the housing 600 can be designed such that the distance 603 from the rear side along the longitudinal axis up to a kink line 604 (which runs along the transverse axis, i.e., the y-axis) is essentially constant and corresponds to a specific base distance. The arrangement 202 of sealing elements 300 can be located (if necessary, entirely) within this area. The height of the sealing elements 300 can correspond to the base distance. The base distance can be 2 mm or more.

[0089] From the bend line 604, the distance 603 to the surface 220 to be cleaned can be gradually reduced from the base distance to a suction nozzle edge 605, where the underside 602 of the housing 600 has a reduced distance, which is referred to in this document as the suction nozzle distance. The suction nozzle distance can be, for example, 1 mm or less. The underside 602 of the housing 600 of the suction nozzle 100 runs at an angle in this section (along the longitudinal axis) and forms a slope 601, which can be referred to as the approach ramp. By reducing the distance 603 between the underside 602 of the housing 600 of the suction nozzle 100 and the suction nozzle 101, the suction effect of the suction nozzle 100 can be improved.

[0090] In one embodiment (not shown), for example, a portion of the sealing elements 300 can have a decreasing height (along the vertical axis) extending from the bend line 604 along the longitudinal axis, corresponding to the reduction of the distance 603 between the underside 602 of the housing 600 of the suction nozzle 100. This can be the case, for example, for (in particular, for all) the sealing elements 300 of the second row 306 of sealing elements 300. This ensures that the sealing elements 300 contact the surface 220 to be cleaned with a force that is essentially constant along the longitudinal axis. This results in a particularly reliable formation of the suction channels 302, thereby achieving reliable pickup of coarse dirt (especially during a backward movement of the suction nozzle 100).

[0091] Alternatively, the arrangement 202 of sealing elements 300 can be designed such that the sealing elements 300 do not extend beyond the bend line 604 (towards the suction opening 101). For this purpose, the sealing elements 300 (of the second row 306) can be limited by the bend line 604.

[0092] In the Figuren 6b and 6c Particularly advantageous embodiments of the arrangement 202 of sealing elements 300 are shown. The sealing elements 300 of the arrangement 202, in particular of the second row 306, have been cut off along the transverse axis, so that the sealing elements 300 of the arrangement 202, in particular of the second row 306, each have a straight transverse edge.

[0093] As explained above, the individual sealing elements 300 can have a teardrop-shaped base contour (see Fig. 6b , left side), an egg-shaped base contour (see Fig. 6b , center), or an oval base contour (see Fig. 6b , right side). The (longer) main axis is preferably aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis. The individual sealing elements 300 (of the second row 306) can thus be cut transversely to the main axis, so that the sealing elements 300 each have an effective contour that corresponds to a combination of the respective basic contour (teardrop-shaped, egg-shaped or oval) and the straight transverse edge.

[0094] Fig. 6c Figure 1 shows an example with sealing elements 300, each of which has a circular base contour. The sealing elements 300 of the second row 306 are cut off along the (straight) bend line 604, so that the effective contour of the sealing elements 300 has a circular section and a straight section.

[0095] The individual sealing elements 300 have a width along the transverse axis that increases from the rear of the housing 600 of the suction nozzle 100 along the longitudinal axis (e.g., starting from zero) to a maximum width and then decreases again from the maximum width (e.g., back to zero). The sealing elements 300 thus have a first section with increasing width and a second section with decreasing width. The first section can have a first length along the longitudinal axis, and the second section can have a second length along the longitudinal axis. The first length is preferably equal to or greater than the second length (especially when using teardrop-shaped or egg-shaped sealing elements 300).

[0096] The sealing elements 300 (of the second row 306) are preferably cut off in the second section (with decreasing width) so that the sealing elements 300 still have their maximum width. For example, between 20% and 90% of the second section's length can be cut off.

[0097] To reduce the space requirement of the arrangement 202 of sealing elements 300, at least a part of the sealing elements 300 (in particular all sealing elements 300 of the second row 306) can be cut off in a straight line by a secant that runs parallel to the suction opening 101 and / or parallel to the transverse axis (in each case on the side facing the suction opening 101).

[0098] By cutting off the sealing elements 300 of the arrangement 202, the overall length of the arrangement 202 along the longitudinal axis can be reduced, which makes it possible to reduce the spatial extent of the suction nozzle 100 along the longitudinal axis. On the other hand, the efficiency of coarse dirt collection is not affected by cutting off the sealing elements 300, since the funnel shape of the suction channels 302 formed by the sealing elements 300 is not influenced by the straight transverse edge of the sealing elements 300 (of the second row 306). The coarse dirt is drawn from the rear of the housing 600 of the suction nozzle 100 through the suction channels 302 to the suction opening 101 and therefore cannot become trapped on the straight transverse edge of a sealing element 300.

[0099] Furthermore, cutting off the sealing elements 300 avoids the need for indentations and / or recesses for the individual sealing elements 300 on the underside 602 of the housing 600 of the suction nozzle 100, thus preventing turbulence in the suction opening 101 that could be caused by such indentations and / or recesses, and the associated loss of suction power. In particular, cutting off the sealing elements 300 avoids any interference with the surface of the suction opening 101.

[0100] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown. In particular, it should be noted that the description and the figures are intended only to illustrate the principle of the suction nozzle and / or the suction device described in this document. Reference symbol list

[0101] 100 Suction nozzle 101 Suction mouth 202 Sealing arrangement 203, 205 Wheel 204 Brush roller 220 Surface to be cleaned (floor) 300 Sealing element (fluff bundle) 301 (Rear) transverse edge of the suction mouth 302 Suction channel 303 Flow direction 305, 306 Row of sealing elements 311, 312 Diameter 314 Overlap (along the longitudinal axis) 315, 316 Transverse spacing 317 Minimum distance between two sealing elements 318 Overlap (along the transverse axis) 401, 402, 403 Shape of a sealing element 500 Material of a sealing element 600 Housing of the suction nozzle 601 Slope 602 Underside 603 Spacing 604 Bend line 605Suction mouth edge

Claims

1. Suction nozzle (100) for a suction apparatus; wherein the suction nozzle (100) comprises, - a suction mouth (101), with a suction mouth opening on an underside of the suction nozzle (100) which faces an area to be cleaned (220) during operation of the suction nozzle (100); and - an arrangement (202) of sealing elements (300) spaced apart from one another in each case, arranged on the underside of the suction nozzle (100); wherein - the arrangement (202) of sealing elements (300) comprises a first row (305) of sealing elements (300), which are spaced apart from one another one after the other along a transverse axis of the suction nozzle (100) by a first transverse distance (315) in each case; - the arrangement (202) of sealing elements (300) comprises a second row (306) of sealing elements (300), which are spaced apart from one another one after the other along the transverse axis by a second transverse distance (316) in each case; - the first row (305) and the second row (306) are arranged behind one another along a longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle (100); and - the sealing elements (300) are arranged such that sealing elements (300) of the first row (305) have an overlap (314, 318) with sealing elements (300) of the second row (306) along the longitudinal axis and / or along the transverse axis; wherein the sealing elements (300) of the first row (305) have a first diameter (311); wherein the sealing elements (300) of the second row (306) have a second diameter (312); characterised in that the second diameter (312) is greater than the first diameter (311).

2. Suction nozzle (100) according to claim 1, wherein - the suction nozzle (100) is designed and / or is provided to be moved along the longitudinal axis over the area to be cleaned (220); - the suction mouth opening of the suction mouth (101) has a rear transverse edge (301) which is arranged at the rear of the suction mouth opening of the suction mouth (101) relative to a forward direction of the suction nozzle (100) running along the longitudinal axis, and which edge runs along the transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; and - the arrangement (202) of sealing elements (300) is arranged on the rear transverse edge (301) of the suction mouth opening of the suction mouth (101).

3. Suction nozzle (100) according to claim 2, wherein the suction nozzle (100) only has an arrangement (202) of sealing elements (300) on the rear transverse edge (301) and / or does not have an arrangement (202) of sealing elements (300) on a front transverse edge of the suction mouth opening of the suction mouth (101).

4. Suction nozzle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the individual sealing elements (300) each have a - circular, - oval - egg-shaped, or - droplet-shaped base contour.

5. Suction nozzle (100) according to claim 4, wherein the individual sealing elements (300) are arranged such that - a main axis of the individual sealing elements (300) runs parallel to the longitudinal axis; and / or - a narrow side of the individual sealing elements (300) faces away from the suction mouth opening of the suction mouth (101) in each case.

6. Suction nozzle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first transverse distance (315) is greater, in particular greater by 20 % to 50 %, than the second transverse distance (316).

7. Suction nozzle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first row (305) and the second row (306) are arranged behind one another along the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle (100) such that the first row (305) of sealing elements (300) faces away from the suction mouth opening of the suction mouth (101) and the second row (306) of sealing elements (300) faces the suction mouth opening of the suction mouth (101).

8. Suction nozzle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein - the first row (305) and / or the second row (306) has, in each case, 5 or more, in particular 10 or more sealing elements (300); and / or - the first row (305) has precisely 8 to 12, preferably precisely 9 to 11 and in particular precisely 10 sealing elements (300); and / or - the second row (306) has precisely 9 to 13, preferably precisely 10 to 12 and in particular precisely 11 sealing elements (300).

9. Suction nozzle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein - the overlap (318) along the transverse axis amounts to between 5 and 20 %, in particular between 10 and 15 % of a second diameter (312) of the sealing elements (300) of the second row (306); and / or - the overlap (314) along the longitudinal axis amounts to between 5 and 20 %, in particular between 10 and 15 % of a first diameter (311) of the sealing elements (300) of the first row (305).

10. Suction nozzle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a number of suction channels (302) is formed by way of intermediate spaces between the sealing elements (300); wherein the individual suction channels (302) of the number of suction channels (302), in each case - run along a direction of flow (303) from a first end of the respective suction channel (302), which faces away from the suction mouth opening, to a second end of the respective suction channel (302), which faces the suction mouth opening; and - have a serpentine course along the direction of flow (303).

11. Suction nozzle (100) according to claim 10, wherein - the individual suction channels (302) of the number of suction channels (302) have a cross section with a first cross-sectional area on the first end of the respective suction channel (302) in each case, which is greater than a second cross-sectional area of the cross section on the second end of the respective suction channel (302); wherein the first cross-sectional area is greater than the second cross-sectional area in particular by 20 % to 50 %; and / or - the individual suction channels (302) of the number of suction channels (302) are designed in each case as funnel-shaped from the first end to the second end of the respective suction channel (302).

12. Suction nozzle (100) according to one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the individual suction channels (302) of the number of suction channels (302) have a cross section perpendicular to the direction of flow (303) in each case, which, along the total channel length from the first end to the second end of the respective suction channel (302), does not fall below a minimum width; wherein the minimum width is in particular between 3 mm and 6 mm.

13. Suction nozzle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing elements (300) of the second row (306) have, in each case, on a side facing the suction mouth (101), a transverse edge running in a straight line along the transverse axis, which edge, in each case, in particular corresponds to a secant of a base contour of the respective sealing element (300).

14. Suction nozzle (100) according to claim 13, wherein - an underside (602) of the suction nozzle (100) facing the area to be cleaned (220) runs from a bend line (604), which runs along the longitudinal axis, along the transverse axis to the suction mouth (101), obliquely to the area to be cleaned (220); and - the transverse edges of the sealing elements (300) of the second row (306) are arranged in each case on the bend line (604).

15. Suction nozzle (100) according to one of claims 13 to 14, wherein - the base contour of the individual sealing elements (300) is designed such that a width of the respective sealing element (300) increases gradually along the transverse axis in a first section along the longitudinal axis to the suction mouth (101), starting from zero to a maximum width, and reduces gradually in an adjoining second section starting from the maximum width down to zero; - the individual sealing elements (300) have the maximum width at an intermediate point between the first and the second section; - the first section has a first length and the second section has a second length along the longitudinal axis; - the first length is in particular the same as or greater than the second length by approximately 20 % or more; and - the transverse edges of the sealing elements (300) of the second row (306) are arranged in each case in the second section of the respective sealing element (300), in particular at a distance of between 20 % and 80 % of the second length from the intermediate point.