High pressure cleaning device

Abstract

The invention relates to a high-pressure cleaning device (1) comprising a connection (2) for a liquid source (14), a feed pump (3), a motor (4) for driving the feed pump (3), a delivery line (5) through which liquid can be conveyed from the connection (2) to a spray opening (6) of the delivery line (5) by means of the feed pump (3), and a valve (8) arranged in the delivery line (5). The motor (4) has two operating states. The two operating states comprise an off state and an on state. The valve (8) has two valve states, comprising a closed state (20) and an open state (40). In the closed state (20), the valve (8) prevents the flow of liquid through the delivery line (5). In the open state (40), the valve (8) allows the flow of liquid through the delivery line (5).The high-pressure cleaning device (1) is designed in such a way that the adjustment of the operating state of the motor (4) is only possible when the valve (8) is in the open state (40).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a high-pressure cleaning device according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] From EP 2 483 561 B1, a high-pressure cleaning device is known that includes a bypass valve and a hydraulically controlled plunger for switching off the pump of the high-pressure cleaning device. If the pressure in the pressure line increases due to the closure of the spray nozzle, the bypass valve opens, and due to a pressure differential caused by the cleaning fluid, the plunger is moved by the cleaning fluid in such a way that it switches off the pump of the high-pressure cleaning device. Nevertheless, a high pressure remains in the pressure line, so that when an operator operates an actuator to open the spray nozzle, considerable force must be exerted to open a corresponding valve in the pressure line against this pressure. The processes for regulating the pressure and for opening and closing the valve in the pressure line using the actuator are associated with high design complexity and considerable wear of the components.

[0003] US 2015 / 0102121 A1 concerns a high-pressure cleaner with a drive motor for a pump that is only switched on when a valve in a main line is open.

[0004] DE 44 11 567 C2 discloses a high-pressure cleaner with a bypass line. The pressure and / or the flow rate in the main line can be controlled via the bypass line by means of a shut-off valve, which is adjustable by means of an actuator that can be controlled via a radio link.

[0005] US Patent 8,444,068 B2 describes a high-pressure cleaning device with a motor control mechanism that shuts off the motor if the pressure or flow rate becomes too high. The high pressure occurs when the motor runs against the closed valve.

[0006] WO 2019 / 023044 A1 concerns a motor-driven sprayer. To prevent excessive spray pressure, a mechanism is provided which allows the motor's operating state to be adjusted only when the valve is open.

[0007] The invention is based on the objective of further developing a generic high-pressure cleaning device in such a way that it can be used comfortably and with low wear and tear and can be manufactured with minimal design effort.

[0008] This problem is solved by a high-pressure cleaning device with the features of claim 1.

[0009] According to the invention, the high-pressure cleaning device is designed such that the motor's operating state can only be changed when the valve is in the open position. The motor's two operating states are the off state and the on state. In the off state, the motor is off and is not supplied with electrical energy. In the on state, the motor is on and is supplied with electrical energy. Because the high-pressure cleaning device is designed such that the motor's operating state can only be changed when the valve is in the open state, the motor can only be switched from the off state to the on state when the valve is open. This prevents the motor and the pump from exerting high pressure on the valve during fluid pumping.Because the high-pressure cleaner is designed so that the motor's operating state can only be changed when the valve is open, the motor can only be switched from the on to the off state when the valve is open. This ensures that the pressure present in the delivery line due to the pumping of the liquid can be at least partially relieved when the motor is switched from the on to the off state. This prevents the valve from being subjected to high pressure after being switched to the closed state. The components involved in switching the motor on and off are not subjected to pressure from the liquid pumped by the pump.

[0010] Because the high-pressure cleaning device is designed so that the motor's operating state can only be adjusted when the valve is in the open position, a high pressure build-up in the delivery line is prevented. This allows the valve to be designed for much lower pressures. Due to the lower pressure in the delivery line, especially when the valve is closed and the motor is off, only minimal force is required to open the valve. The operator only needs to exert a small amount of force, as they do not have to work against high liquid pressure in the delivery line. This enables convenient use of the high-pressure cleaning device according to the invention.

[0011] In particular, the high-pressure cleaner is designed so that the valve position can only be adjusted when the motor is off. This means the valve can only be moved from the closed to the open position when the motor is off. Similarly, the valve can only be moved from the open to the closed position when the motor is off. This allows the valve to be designed for low pressures, resulting in minimal valve wear.

[0012] The high-pressure cleaner is advantageously designed so that the valve can only be adjusted to the closed position after the motor has been switched off. This ensures that no high pressure can build up in the delivery line of the high-pressure cleaner when the valve is closed. At the time the valve is closed, the motor of the feed pump is already off. Therefore, the feed pump cannot increase the pressure of the liquid against the closed valve. Because the valve is only closed after the motor has switched off, pressure in the delivery line can dissipate even before the valve closes. This makes closing the valve easier and more convenient for the user. This allows for comfortable use of the high-pressure cleaner according to the invention.

[0013] The motor can be switched to the "on" position only after the valve has been set to the open position. This prevents the pump from increasing the pressure on the closed valve. Therefore, when the valve is closed, there is no significant pressure on it. This allows for easy and convenient opening of the valve. The user does not need to exert much force.

[0014] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the high-pressure cleaning device comprises an actuating element. Advantageously, the high-pressure cleaning device is designed such that an electrical signal can be generated directly by the actuating element, and that the motor can be set to at least one of two operating states as a result of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element.

[0015] In particular, the high-pressure cleaner is designed so that the transmission of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuator to the motor for setting it to at least one of its two operating states is at least partially wireless. Advantageously, the electrical signal triggered by the actuator can be transmitted wirelessly to the motor. This allows for particularly simple manufacturing of the high-pressure cleaner. Furthermore, it enables convenient use of the high-pressure cleaner. There is no need to consider the routing of a cable. The actuator can be positioned anywhere along the high-pressure cleaner's delivery line.

[0016] The high-pressure cleaner is advantageously designed so that the motor's setting to at least one of its two operating states occurs directly as a result of the electrical signal generated by the actuating element, independent of the pressure conditions in the delivery line. In particular, the motor's adjustment from the on state to the off state occurs without any element that is dependent on the pressure in the delivery line. Because the motor can be set to the on state or the off state directly as a result of the electrical signal generated by the actuating element, high pressure in the delivery line can be avoided when the valve is in the closed position.Since the switching on or off of the motor does not have to be done via a hydraulic mechanism, but is realized as a result of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element, the components involved are much less prone to wear.

[0017] Because the motor can be switched between the on and off states directly by the electrical signal generated by the actuator, rapid starting and stopping of the motor is possible. This design of the high-pressure cleaner eliminates the need for a hydraulic motor shut-off. As a result, numerous components of the high-pressure cleaner can be eliminated. These eliminated components are subject to significant wear in conventional designs. This is not the case for the components required in a high-pressure cleaner design where the motor is switched on and off directly by an electrical signal generated by the actuator – without the application of hydraulic force. This enables low-wear operation.Due to the smaller number of components required to switch the motor on and off, only minimal design effort is needed to manufacture the high-pressure cleaning device.

[0018] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the high-pressure cleaning device features a valve actuating element that can be operated separately from the actuating element. The valve actuating element allows the valve to be set to one of two valve states. Advantageously, the high-pressure cleaning device is designed such that the actuating element for setting the operating state of the motor can only be actuated when the valve is in the open state by means of the valve actuating element. In particular, the valve actuating element is designed such that, when actuated, it releases the actuating element for actuation. When the valve actuating element is actuated, the valve is in the open state. When the valve actuating element is not actuated, actuation of the actuating element is not possible. When the actuating element is actuated, the motor is in the on state.The high-pressure cleaner may be designed so that the valve actuator is locked when actuated. When the valve actuator is locked, it is held in the same position it would otherwise be in when operated by a user. Active operation of the valve actuator by the user is not required when the valve actuator is locked.

[0019] In particular, the valve is set to one of its two states mechanically by means of the valve actuator. The force applied by the operator is transmitted directly to the valve.

[0020] The valve can be advantageously adjusted to one of two valve states using the actuating element. InIn this case, the actuating element serves both to adjust the operating state of the motor and to adjust the valve state. In In this case, no valve actuation element is provided.

[0021] In particular, the valve is set to one of its two states mechanically by means of the actuating element. The force applied by the operator is transmitted directly to the valve.

[0022] In particular, the actuating element has a pivoting lever with a first end position. Advantageously, the valve is only set to the closed position in the first end position of the pivoting lever. Specifically, the high-pressure cleaner is designed such that the motor is switched off before the first end position of the pivoting lever is reached, as a result of the electrical signal directly generated by the pivoting lever. However, it can also be provided that the motor is switched off upon reaching the first end position of the pivoting lever. This establishes a time sequence for switching off the motor and moving the valve to the closed position. The valve closes after the motor is switched off. It can also be provided that the valve closes when the motor is switched off.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that, when the motor is off and the valve is closed, the fluid in the delivery line exerts a pressure on the valve that is at most 15 bar, in particular at most 10 bar, and preferably at most the applied operating pressure. The applied line pressure is the pressure in the delivery line before the pump is first started up after connecting the fluid source. The applied line pressure is the pressure prevailing in the supply line to the fluid source. Because the valve is subjected to a pressure of at most 15 bar, in particular at most 10 bar, and preferably at most corresponding to the applied line pressure, the actuating element can be operated with minimal force. The valve can be opened with minimal force.

[0024] The valve is conveniently the only valve in the delivery line. This allows for simple construction of the high-pressure cleaner. Only a small number of components are required.

[0025] In particular, the valve is located in the delivery line between the delivery pump and the dispensing nozzle. However, it can also be arranged that the valve is located in the delivery line between the connection and the delivery pump.

[0026] Advantageously, the high-pressure cleaning device is designed such that the motor is set to at least one of the two operating states as a result of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element, independent of the pressure conditions in the delivery line. Specifically, the motor is set to at least one of the two operating states after the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element is generated, independent of the pressure conditions in the delivery line. In particular, the liquid in the delivery line is not involved in the transmission of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element to the motor. The transmission of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element to the motor is expediently carried out exclusively electrically and / or electromagnetically.

[0027] The high-pressure cleaner features a trigger gun. The trigger mechanism is conveniently located on the trigger gun, allowing for intuitive use. The trigger gun, and in particular the spray nozzle, can be aimed at a target while simultaneously opening the valve using the trigger mechanism. The trigger mechanism also activates the pump motor. This ensures easy and convenient operation of the high-pressure cleaner. The pump is conveniently designed to be separate from the trigger gun.

[0028] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the high-pressure cleaning device is designed such that the volume flow rate of the liquid conveyed through the delivery line can be adjusted by means of an electrical volume signal selectable via the actuating element. In particular, the electrical volume signal controls the delivery rate of the delivery pump. The larger the electrical volume signal, the greater the delivery rate of the delivery pump.

[0029] The high-pressure cleaning device may also be provided with a regulating line that connects the section of the delivery line between the feed pump and the spray nozzle to the section of the delivery line between the connection and the feed pump. In particular, a regulating valve is arranged in the regulating line. Advantageously, the regulating valve is adjustable by means of the electrical volume signal generated directly by the actuating element. The regulating valve can be continuously adjusted in steps or continuously between a fully closed and a fully open state. Between the fully closed and fully open states, the regulating valve can have different degrees of closure. It may be provided that the volume flow rate is adjustable by the degree of closure of the regulating valve.

[0030] It may be possible for the volume signal to be selectable in several different levels. Advantageously, the electrical volume signal is continuously selectable via the actuating element. In particular, the electrical volume signal is continuously adjustable. This allows the volume flow of liquid conveyed through the delivery line to be continuously adjusted.

[0031] In particular, the operator can freely select the pumping capacity of the feed pump using the actuating element, depending on the required flow rate. It can also be provided that the operator can freely select the closing degree of the regulating valve using the actuating element, depending on the required flow rate.

[0032] In particular, the actuating element has a first end position in which the valve is closed. In particular, the actuating element has a second end position in which the valve is open. Between the first and second end positions, the actuating element travels a distance. Advantageously, the high-pressure cleaning device is designed such that the delivered volume flow rate is, at least in certain sections, proportional to the distance traveled by the actuating element. In other words, at least in one section of the path, the more forcefully the actuating element is pressed, the greater the delivered volume flow rate. In particular, the strength of the electrical volume signal is, at least in certain sections, proportional to the distance traveled by the actuating element.

[0033] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the high-pressure cleaning device has a bypass line that connects the delivery line between the delivery pump and the spray nozzle to the delivery line between the connection and the delivery pump. In particular, a pressure relief valve is arranged in the bypass line.

[0034] In particular, the liquid source is an external liquid source. The high-pressure cleaning device is designed separately from the external liquid source.

[0035] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained below with reference to the drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a high-pressure cleaning device with an induction motor for the feed pump, wherein the induction motor is in the on state and the valve in the feed line is in the open state, Fig. 2 a schematic representation of the high-pressure cleaning device made of Fig. 1, wherein the motor is in the off state and the valve is in the closed state, Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a high-pressure cleaning device with a brushless DC motor for driving the feed pump, Fig. 4 a schematic diagram showing the dependencies of the volume flow in the delivery line, the voltage signal of a potentiometer and the back pressure that the actuating element presents to the operator when operating the actuating element, on the distance that the actuating element has traveled between a first and a second end position, and Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a high-pressure cleaning device with an actuating element for setting the operating state of the motor of the feed pump and a valve actuating element for setting the valve state of the valve.

[0036] Fig. 1Figure 1 shows a high-pressure cleaning device 1. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 comprises a pump unit 21 and a spray gun 11. The pump unit 21 and the spray gun 11 are connected to each other via a delivery line 5. The pump unit 21 has a connection 2. A liquid source 14 is connected to the connection 2. In the exemplary embodiments, the liquid source 14 is an external liquid source. In these exemplary embodiments, the external liquid source is the tap of a domestic water supply. It is also possible for the liquid source to be an integral part of the high-pressure cleaning device.

[0037] The liquid source 14 supplies liquid to the delivery line 5. A delivery pump 3 is arranged in the delivery line. The delivery pump 3 pressurizes the liquid. Downstream of the delivery pump 3, the pressure in the delivery line 5 is higher than upstream of the delivery pump 3. The delivery pump 3 is separate from the spray gun 11. Various spray guns can be connected to the delivery pump 3. The high-pressure cleaner 1 has a motor 4 to drive the delivery pump 3. The motor 4 is arranged in the pump unit 21. The motor 4 can be a brushless DC motor. A brushless DC motor is also called an EC motor. However, the motor can also be a universal motor. In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 1 Motor 4 is an induction motor. In an induction motor, a rotating magnetic field of the stator sets the rotor in motion. The induction motor in the exemplary embodiment according to the Figures 1 and 2 It is operated with alternating current. The voltage source can be provided, for example, by the mains voltage. In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 3 Motor 4 is a brushless DC motor. The brushless DC motor can also be operated with a battery or rechargeable battery. The battery may be integrated into the high-pressure cleaner 1.

[0038] As in the Figures 1 to 3 The high-pressure cleaning device 1, as shown, includes a main switch 17. The main switch 17 serves to interrupt the power supply to the entire high-pressure cleaning device 1. The main switch 17 is located on the pump unit 21.

[0039] The motor 4 of the feed pump 3 pumps liquid from the connection 2 of the feed line 5 to a spray opening 6 of the feed line 5. The spray opening 6 is located on the gun 11.

[0040] The motor 4 of the high-pressure cleaner 1 has two operating states. The two operating states include an on state 30 ( Fig. 1 ) and an off state 10 ( Fig. 2 In the off state (10), motor 4 is off. No electrical power is supplied to operate motor 4. In the on state (30), motor 4 is on. In on state 30, motor 4 is driven by electrical power.

[0041] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 has a valve 8. The valve 8 is arranged in the delivery line 5. The valve 8 has two valve states. The two valve states include a closed state 20 ( Fig. 2 ) and an open state 40 ( Fig. 1In the open position 40, the valve allows liquid to flow through the delivery line. In the closed position 20, the valve 8 prevents liquid from flowing through the delivery line 5. In the open position 40 of the valve 8, liquid is sprayed out of the dispensing opening 6. In the closed position 20 of the valve 8, no liquid is sprayed out of the dispensing opening 6.

[0042] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 has an actuating element 7. The actuating element 7 is separate from the main switch 17. In all embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the motor 4 can be set to one of two operating states by means of the actuating element 7. The motor 4 can be switched from the off state 10 to the on state 30 by means of the actuating element 7.

[0043] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is, in the embodiments according to the Figures 1 to 3 The valve 8 is designed so that it can be adjusted to one of two valve states by means of the actuating element 7. The actuating element 7 allows the valve 8 to be moved from the closed state 20 to the open state 40. The actuating element 7 allows the valve 8 to be moved from the open state 40 to the closed state 20. In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 5 A valve actuating element 27 is provided for adjusting the valve state of valve 8. The valve actuating element 27 is designed separately from the actuating element 7. Fig. 5 The valve state of valve 8 cannot be adjusted by means of the actuating element 7.

[0044] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed in all embodiments such that the operating state of the motor 4 can only be changed when the valve 8 is in the open state 40. The motor 4 can only be switched from the off state 10 to the on state 30 when the valve 8 is in the open state 40. The motor 4 can only be switched from the on state 30 to the off state 10 when the valve 8 is in the open state 40.

[0045] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed in all embodiments such that the valve position of valve 8 can only be adjusted when the motor 4 is in the off state 10. Valve 8 can only be moved from the closed state 20 to the open state 40 when the motor 4 is in the off state 10.

[0046] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed in all embodiments such that an electrical signal can be generated directly by the actuating element 7. In these embodiments, the electrical signal is generated by allowing or preventing a current flow. The resistance of a potentiometer is changed by actuating the actuating element 7, such that current can or cannot flow through the circuit in which the potentiometer is located. Alternatively, the actuating element can also actuate a switch that closes or opens a circuit, thereby allowing or preventing a current flow. In these embodiments, the actuating element 7 acts mechanically on the potentiometer and thus directly generates an electrical signal.The interruption of an electric current is also referred to as the generation of an electrical signal or as an electrical signal.

[0047] As a result of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element 7, the motor 4 can be set to at least one of its two operating states in all embodiments. The electrical signal can be an "on" signal or an "off" signal. In the embodiments, if the actuating element 7 generates an "on" signal, it allows current to flow in a circuit. In the embodiments, if the actuating element 7 generates an "off" signal, it prevents current from flowing in a circuit.

[0048] As a result of the generation of the electrical on signal, motor 4 is switched from its off state 10 to its on state 30. As a result of the generation of the electrical off signal, motor 4 is switched from its on state 30 to its off state 10.

[0049] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed in all embodiments such that the setting of the motor 4 into one of the two operating states of the motor 4 takes place as a result of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element 7, independently of the pressure conditions in the delivery line 5.

[0050] When the motor 4 is in its on state and the valve 8 is in its open state 40, fluid is conveyed from the connection 2 through the delivery line 5 to the spray opening 6 in all embodiments. This state is achieved by means of the actuating element 7. Before the high-pressure cleaner 1 is put into operation, the motor 4 is in the off state 10. The actuating element 7 is not actuated. The valve 8 is in the closed state 20. This state of the high-pressure cleaner 1 is described in Fig. 2 As shown. With valve 8 closed and motor 4 of the feed pump 3 switched off, no liquid is pumped through the delivery line 5.

[0051] In the exemplary embodiments, valve 8 is configured according to the Figures 1 to 3 by means of the actuating element 4 from its in Fig. 2 depicted closed state 20 in its in Fig. 1The open state 40 shown is transferred. Only then is the electrical signal for transferring the motor 4 from its in Fig. 2 depicted state 10 in its in Fig. 1 The depicted on-state 30 is triggered. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the motor 4 can only be set to on-state 30 after the valve 8 has been set to the open state 40. In the embodiment according to Fig. 5 The valve state of valve 8 is adjusted by the valve actuating element 27.

[0052] In the exemplary embodiment according to the Figs. 1 and 2It is provided that the valve 8 can be mechanically switched between the closed state 20 and the open state 40 by means of the actuating element 7. It can also be provided that the valve 8 can be switched electrically between the closed state 20 and the open state 40 as a result of an electrical valve signal directly generated by the actuating element 7. This allows the actuating element 7 to be located remotely from the valve 8. It can also be provided that the transmission of the valve signal directly generated by the actuating element to the valve 8 is at least partially wireless.

[0053] The generation of an electrical valve signal can be achieved by allowing or preventing the flow of current. In this process, the resistance in a circuit is changed by actuating the actuator, such that current can or cannot flow through the circuit. For example, the actuator may also actuate a switch that closes or opens a circuit, thereby allowing or preventing current flow. Preventing current flow is also referred to as generating an electrical valve signal.

[0054] In the closed state 20 of the valve 8, the valve 8 is completely closed in all embodiments. In the open state 40 of the valve 8, the valve 8 is at least partially open. In the open state 40 of the valve 8, fluid can flow through the valve 8. The open state 40 of the valve 8 may include several different degrees of opening. In the embodiments, the valve 8 is completely open in the open state 40. In the embodiments, the valve 8 is arranged in the delivery line 5 between the delivery pump 3 and the dispensing opening 6. The valve 8 is arranged in the gun 11. However, it may also be arranged in the delivery line between the connection 2 and the delivery pump 3.

[0055] In all embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element 7 is transmitted wirelessly to the motor 4. In this case, the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element 7 is converted into an electromagnetic signal and transmitted in this way. However, it is also possible for the electrical signal to be transmitted to the motor via a cable. In the embodiments, the actuating element 7 is electrically connected to a transmitter 15. When the actuating element 7 is actuated, an electrical signal is generated directly by the actuating element 7, transmitted electrically to the transmitter 15, and sent by the transmitter 15 as a wireless signal. The transmitter 15 is arranged on the spray gun 11. In the embodiments, the transmitter 15 is powered by a battery 23.

[0056] To receive the wireless signal, the high-pressure cleaner 1 includes a receiver 16. The receiver 16 receives the wireless signal sent by the transmitter 15 and transmits it to the motor 4. For this purpose, the receiver 16 is electrically connected to the motor 4. The received wireless signal is then transmitted electrically from the receiver 16 to the motor 4. The on signal from the actuator 7 can be transmitted to the motor 4 via the transmitter 15 and the receiver 16. The off signal from the actuator 7 can also be transmitted to the motor 4 via the transmitter 15 and the receiver 16. The signal sent from the transmitter 15 to the receiver 16 can be a radio signal. In the exemplary embodiments, the signal sent from the transmitter 15 to the receiver 16 is a Bluetooth signal.

[0057] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed in all embodiments such that the setting of the motor 4 into at least one of the two operating states occurs as a result of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element 7, independently of the pressure conditions in the delivery line 5. The liquid in the delivery line 5 is not involved in the transmission of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element 7 to the motor 4. The transmission of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element 7 to the motor 4 occurs exclusively electrically and / or electromagnetically. In the embodiments, the transmission of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element 7 to the motor 4 includes a conversion of the electrical signal into an electromagnetic signal.After being received by the receiving device 16, the electromagnetic signal is converted back into an electrical signal.

[0058] In the exemplary embodiments, the actuating element 7 is arranged on the pistol 11. In the exemplary embodiments, the transmitter is arranged on the pistol 11. The receiver 16 is arranged on the pump unit 21.

[0059] When actuating element 7 in the Fig. 2 In the depicted state of the high-pressure cleaner 1, the valve 8 is first opened and then – with further actuation of the actuating element 7 – the motor 4 is switched on. The high-pressure cleaner 1 is then in the state shown in Fig. 1 The illustrated state. Liquid is conveyed from connection 2 through the delivery line 5 to the dispensing opening 6. Liquid ejects from the dispensing opening 6 at high pressure. The actuation of the actuating element 7 in the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 3 It is done in the same way.

[0060] When the operator wants to end the spraying process, they release the actuation of the actuator 7. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the valve 8 can only be moved from the off state 10 to the closed state 20 after the motor 4 has been set to the off state 10. When the actuation of the actuator 7 is released, the motor 4 is first moved from the on state 30 to the off state 10. Only then – upon further release of the actuation of the actuator 7 – is the valve 8 moved from the open state 40 to the closed state 20. In the exemplary embodiments according to the Figures 1 to 3 The valve state of valve 8 is set by the actuating element 7. In the exemplary embodiments according to the Figures 1 to 3A single component, namely the actuating element 7, is provided for setting the operating state of the motor 4 and for setting the valve state of the valve 8. In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 5 The valve state of valve 8 is determined by the position of the valve actuating lever 27. Two components are provided here: one for adjusting the operating state of motor 4 and the other for adjusting the valve state of valve 8.

[0061] After the valve 8 is transferred from the open state 40 to the closed state 20, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is again in the position described in Fig. 2In the illustrated state, the motor 4 is off and the valve 8 is closed. The same applies analogously to the other embodiments. No liquid is conveyed in the delivery line 8. Only the pressure generated by the liquid source 14 is present at the valve 8. The pressure generated by the liquid source 14 is also referred to as line pressure. When the motor 4 is off, the liquid in the delivery line 5 exerts a pressure on the valve 8 in its closed position 20 that is at most equal to the line pressure. In particular, when the motor 4 is off, the liquid in the delivery line 5 exerts a pressure on the valve 8 in its closed position 20 that is at most 15 bar, or at most 10 bar in the embodiments.

[0062] In the exemplary embodiments, the actuating element 7 is a pivot lever 9. The pivot lever 9 has a first end position. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 according to the Figures 1 to 3The design is such that the valve 8 is only in the closed position 20 in the first end position of the pivot lever 9. The motor 4 is switched to the off position 10 before the first end position of the pivot lever 9 is reached. It can also be provided that the motor 4 is switched to the off position upon reaching the first end position of the pivot lever 9. An actuating element designed in a form other than a pivot lever also has a corresponding first end position.

[0063] In all embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the volume flow rate of the liquid conveyed through the delivery line 5 can be adjusted by means of an electrical volume signal selectable via the actuating element 7. The more the actuating element 7 is actuated, the stronger the volume signal. To adjust the volume signal magnitude, the actuating element 7 is mechanically connected to the potentiometer in the embodiments. The output voltage of the potentiometer is evaluated. The output voltage is adjustable via the actuating element 7. In the embodiments, the magnitude of the volume signal depends on the magnitude of the output voltage.

[0064] It can also be provided that the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element 7, which sets the motor 4 to at least one of the two operating states, is the volume signal. If the volume signal falls below a certain value or is zero, it is the off signal, which sets the motor 4 to the off state 10. If the volume signal exceeds a certain value or is not zero, it is the on signal, which sets the motor 4 to the on state 30. However, it can also be provided that the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element 7, which sets the motor 4 to at least one of the two operating states, and the volume signal are completely separate signals.

[0065] In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 3 and in the exemplary embodiment according Fig. 5The electrical volume signal causes an adjustment of the delivery rate of the feed pump 4. The larger the electrical volume signal, the greater the delivery rate of the feed pump 4. The larger the electrical volume signal, the greater the speed of the motor 4.

[0066] In the exemplary embodiment according to the Figures 1 and 2The rotational speed of motor 4 is approximately constant. The volume flow rate of the liquid in the delivery line 5 is adjusted differently. The high-pressure cleaner 1 has a regulating line 18. The regulating line 18 connects the section of the delivery line 5 between the feed pump 3 and the spray nozzle 6 with the section of the delivery line 5 between the port 2 and the feed pump 3. When the feed pump 3 is operating, the pressure in the section of the delivery line 5 between the feed pump 3 and the spray nozzle 6 is higher than in the section of the delivery line 5 between the port 2 and the feed pump 3. Due to this pressure gradient, liquid can flow through the regulating line 18 from the section of the delivery line 5 between the feed pump 3 and the spray nozzle 6 to the section of the delivery line 5 between the port 2 and the feed pump 3. A regulating valve 19 is located in the regulating line 18.The regulating valve 19 is adjustable by means of the electrical overpressure signal generated directly by the actuating element 7. The regulating valve 19 can be continuously adjusted in steps or continuously between a fully closed and a fully open state. Between the fully closed and fully open states, the regulating valve 19 can have different degrees of closure. In the exemplary embodiment according to the... Figures 1 and 2The regulating valve 19 is continuously adjustable. Depending on the degree of closure of the regulating valve 19, the volume flow rate of the liquid in the delivery line 5 can be adjusted. The more the regulating valve 19 is closed, the greater the volume flow rate of the liquid in the delivery line 5. The more the regulating valve 19 is closed, the greater the volume flow rate of the liquid in the delivery line 5 that is present at the dispensing opening 6.

[0067] To adjust the closing degree of the regulating valve 19, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 indicates according to the Figures 1 and 2 a servomotor 22.

[0068] In the exemplary embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the electrical volume signal generated directly by the actuating element 7 is transmitted wirelessly to the pump unit 21. In this case, the electrical volume signal generated directly by the actuating element 7 is converted into an electromagnetic signal and transmitted in this way. However, it can also be provided that the electrical volume signal is transmitted to the pump unit 21 via a cable. In the exemplary embodiments, the actuating element 7 is electrically connected to the transmitter 15. When the actuating element 7 is actuated – provided the motor 4 is in the on state 30 – an electrical volume signal is generated directly by the actuating element 7, transmitted electrically to the transmitter 15, and sent by the transmitter 15 as a wireless signal.

[0069] The wireless signal transmitted by the transmitting device 15, which was generated by means of the volume signal, is received by the receiving device 16.

[0070] In the exemplary embodiment according to the Figures 1 and 2 The signal is then forwarded to the actuator 22, which adjusts the closing degree of the regulating valve 19 according to the original volume signal.

[0071] In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 3 The signal is then forwarded to motor 4, which then adjusts the speed according to the original volume signal.

[0072] To transmit the signal from the receiver 16, triggered by the volume signal, the receiver 16 is electrically connected to the motor 4. The received wireless signal, triggered by the volume signal, is then transmitted electrically from the receiver 16 to the motor 4. The volume signal can be transmitted from the actuator 7 to the pump unit 21 via the transmitter 15 and the receiver 16. The signal sent from the transmitter 15 to the receiver 16, triggered by the volume signal, can be a radio signal. In the exemplary embodiments, the signal sent from the transmitter 15 to the receiver 16 is a Bluetooth signal.

[0073] It may be provided that the volume signal is selectable in several different levels. In the exemplary embodiments, the electrical volume signal is continuously selectable by means of the actuating element 7. The electrical volume signal is continuously adjustable.

[0074] In the exemplary embodiment, the operator can, according to the Figures 1 and 2 The closing degree of the regulating valve 19 can be freely selected according to the required volume flow using the actuating element 7.

[0075] In the exemplary embodiment, the operator can according to Fig. 3 The pumping capacity of the feed pump 3 can be freely selected using the actuating element 7, depending on the required volume flow.

[0076] In all embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 has a bypass line 12. The bypass line 12 connects the section of the delivery line between the feed pump 3 and the spray nozzle 6 with the section of the delivery line between the connection 2 and the feed pump 3. A pressure relief valve 13 is arranged in the bypass line 12. The pressure relief valve 13 opens in the event of overpressure in the section of the delivery line between the feed pump 3 and the spray nozzle 6. Overpressure can occur, for example, if the motor 4 is not in the off state 30 due to a defect, and yet the valve 8 is in the closed state 20. The pressure relief valve 13 ensures the safe operation of the high-pressure cleaning device 1.

[0077] As in Fig. 2 The actuating element 7 is shown in its first end position, in which the valve 8 is closed. The actuating element 7 has a Fig. 1The second end position is shown, in which the valve 8 is in the open state. The actuating element 7 travels a distance between the first end position and the second end position.

[0078] In the exemplary embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the delivered volume flow rate is at least partially proportional to the distance traveled by the actuating element 7. In other words, at least in one section of the path: the harder the actuating element 7 is pressed, the greater the delivered volume flow rate. The strength of the electrical volume signal is at least partially proportional to the distance traveled by the actuating element 7.

[0079] This is shown in the diagram after Fig. 4 This diagram applies to the embodiments described in the following sections. Figures 1 to 3The abscissa (x-axis) shows the displacement of the actuating element. The first end position of the actuating element 7 is between the positions of the displacement labeled s0 and s1. The second end position of the actuating element 7 is between the positions of the displacement labeled s3 and s4. The following holds true: s0 < s1 < s2 < s3 < s4. Furthermore, s1 is not equal to s2. Additionally, s1 is not equal to s3.

[0080] Two different quantities are plotted on the y-axis. Curve 25 shows the volumetric flow rate of the liquid in the delivery line 5 in the area upstream of the spray nozzle 6. Curve 35 shows the back pressure exerted by the actuating element 7 against an operator.

[0081] Position s0 corresponds to the one in Fig. 2The position of the actuating element 7 is shown. The actuating element 7 is unactuated. The valve 8 is closed. The motor 4 is off. The volume flow 25 is zero. The regulating valve 19 is fully open. In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 3 Similarly, the engine speed is 4 zero.

[0082] When the operator actuates the actuator 7 in this situation, it first travels the distance from position s0 to position s1. During this movement, the valve 8 is mechanically opened. The operator must apply a force to open the valve 8. The back pressure 35 of the actuator 7 increases along its path from position s0 to position s1. At position s1 of the actuator 7, the motor 4 is in its off state in all embodiments. The volume flow 25 is zero.

[0083] If the actuating element 7 is actuated further, it travels the distance from position s1 to position s2. Only at position s2 does the actuating element 7 directly generate the electrical signal that triggers the setting of the motor 4 to the on state 30. Between positions s2 and s4, the motor 4 is in on state 30. On state 30 is exemplified in Fig. 1 The feed pump 3 is now pumping liquid through the delivery line 5. The flow rate 25 is no longer zero. The speed of the motor 4 in Fig. 3 is not equal to zero. The regulating valve 19 in the Figures 1 and 2 is fully open.

[0084] In the region between positions s2 and s3 of the actuator 7's travel distance, the motor 4 is in the on state 30. The valve 8 is open. In this region, the actuator 7 directly generates an electrical volume signal. The volume signal becomes stronger with a greater travel distance of the actuator 7. Accordingly, the volume flow rate 25 also increases. In this region, the strength of the electrical volume signal 25 is proportional to the travel distance of the actuator 7. The rotational speed of the motor 4 in Fig. 3 The distance traveled by the actuating element 7 increases with increasing distance. The regulating valve 19 in the Figures 1 and 2The valve closes continuously as the actuating element 7 travels an increasing distance. With increasing volume flow 25, the pressure in the delivery line 5 also increases. The actuating element 7 is biased into position s0. In the exemplary embodiments, a spring pushes the actuating element 7 into position s0. The counter-pressure 35 on the actuating element 7 increases slightly with the increasing distance traveled by the actuating element 7 due to the greater spring force.

[0085] The section of the actuator 7's travel path between positions s3 and s4 is linked to a boost function. The boost function provides an even greater flow rate and thus higher pressure for the fluid in the delivery line 5 in the area of ​​the outlet opening 6. To reach this section, the operator must first exert a greater force on the actuator 7. If the operator continues to actuate the actuator 7 from position s3, the back pressure on the actuator 7 initially increases sharply. This increase in back pressure is due to the design. In the exemplary embodiments, the actuator 7 must overcome a detent cam, which presents a resistance to the actuator 7.Due to the greater force required by the operator, the actuating element 7, after overcoming the greatest resistance, covers the remaining distance to position s 4 very quickly and abruptly. Therefore, the volume flow rate 25 increases very rapidly in this area. This is perceived by the operator as a jump in the volume flow rate 25. A larger volume flow rate 25, and thus a higher pressure, is suddenly available. The boost function is activated. After overcoming the greatest resistance between positions s 3 and s 4, the resistance decreases again as the actuating element 7 travels to position s 4.

[0086] When the operator releases the actuating element 7 in position s 4, the spring pushes the actuating element 7 back into position s 0. On its path from position s 4 to position s 0, the actuating element 7 first generates an electrical signal at position s 2, which sets the motor 4 to the off state 10, and then mechanically sets the valve 8 to the closed state 20 at position s 1.

[0087] Fig. 5 shows an alternative embodiment of a high-pressure cleaning device 1. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 according to Fig. 5 Except for the design of the actuating element 7, it corresponds to the high-pressure cleaning device according to Fig. 3 .

[0088] The following is exclusively the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 5 described. The high-pressure cleaning device according to Fig. 5The valve actuating element 27 is present. The valve actuating element 27 can be actuated independently of the actuating element 7. The valve 8 can be set to one of two valve states by means of the valve actuating element 27. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the actuating element 7 can only be actuated to set the operating state of the motor 4 if the valve 8 is brought into the open state 40 by means of the valve actuating element 27.

[0089] The valve actuating element 27 is in the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 5The valve 8 is pre-tensioned to a home position in which it is in the closed state 20 due to the position of the valve actuator 27. The valve actuator 27 is pre-tensioned to this home position by a spring. When the valve actuator 27 is actuated, it is pushed out of the home position against the force of the spring. This moves the valve 8 into the open state 40. After the valve actuator 27 has moved out of the home position, it is in an open position. The adjustment of the valve 8 to one of the two valve states by means of the valve actuator 27 is mechanical. The force applied by the operator is transmitted directly to the valve 8.

[0090] In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 5The actuating element 7 is not intended for adjusting the valve state of valve 8. The valve state of valve 8 can only be adjusted by means of the valve actuating element 27.

[0091] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that actuation of the actuating element 7 is only possible when the valve actuating element 27 is moved from its home position. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that actuation of the actuating element 7 is only possible when the valve actuating element 27 is in the open position. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that actuation of the actuating element 7 is only possible when the valve 8 is in the open state 40. Actuation of the actuating element 7, in the embodiment according to [reference to relevant figure], results in [further action / action]. Fig. 5a setting of the motor 4 to the on state 30. If the actuating element 7 is not actuated, the actuating element 7 is in a position in which the motor 4 is in the off state 40 due to the position of the actuating element 7.

[0092] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the speed of the motor 4 depends on the position of the actuating element 7. In the exemplary embodiment, the distance traveled by the actuating element 7 is at least partially proportional to the speed of the motor 4.

[0093] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that when the actuating element 7 is engaged, the valve actuating element 27 is locked in the open position. When the valve actuating element 27 is locked, it remains in the open position even without user intervention. Active operation of the valve actuating element 27 by a user is not required when the valve actuating element 27 is locked. When the actuating element 7 is not engaged, the valve actuating element 27 is disengaged. This ensures that the valve 8 is always in the open position 40 when the motor 4 is in the on position 30.

[0094] In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 5The valve actuating element 27 and the actuating element 7 are arranged on the gun 11 of the high-pressure cleaning device 1. The valve actuating element 27 and the actuating element 7 are oriented relative to each other so that they can be operated with a single hand. The valve actuating element 27 can be operated with the thumb, and simultaneously the actuating element 7 can be operated with one of the other fingers of the same hand.

[0095] In all embodiments, the actuating element 7 is pre-tensioned to a position in which the motor 4 is in the off state 10 due to the position 4 of the actuating element 7. In these embodiments, the actuating element 7 is pre-tensioned to this position by means of a spring.

Claims

1. High-pressure cleaning device comprising: - a connection (2) for a liquid source (14), - a delivery pump (3), - a motor (4) for driving the delivery pump (3), - a delivery line (5), through which liquid can be conveyed by means of the delivery pump (3) from the connection (2) to a spray outlet (6) of the delivery line (5), and - a valve (8), which is arranged in the delivery line (5), wherein the motor (4) has two operating states, wherein the two operating states comprise an OFF state (10) and an ON state (30), wherein the valve (8) has two valve states, wherein the two valve states comprise a closed state (20) and an open state (40), wherein the valve (8), in the closed state (20), prevents a flow of liquid through the delivery line (5), and wherein the valve (8), in the open state (40), permits a flow of liquid through the delivery line (5), characterized in that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) is configured such that changing the operating state of the motor (4) is possible only when the valve (8) is in the open state (40), whereby the motor (4) can be switched from the OFF state (10) to the ON state (30) only when the valve (8) is in the open state (40), and the motor (4) can be switched from the ON state (30) to the OFF state (10) only when the valve (8) is in the open state (40).

2. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) is configured such that the valve (8) can be set to the closed state (20) only after the motor (4) has been set to the OFF state (10).

3. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the high-pressure cleaning device comprises an actuating element (7), and the high-pressure cleaning device is configured - such that an electrical signal can be generated directly by the actuating element (7), and - such that the motor (4) can be set to at least one of the two operating states as a result of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element (7).

4. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 3, characterized in that the transmission of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element (7) to the motor (4) for setting the motor (4) to at least one of the two operating states takes place at least partially wirelessly.

5. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) is configured such that the setting of the motor (4) to at least one of the two operating states as a result of the electrical signal generated directly by the actuating element (7) takes place independently of the pressure conditions in the delivery line (5).

6. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) comprises a valve actuating element (27) that can be actuated separately from the actuating element (7), that the valve (8) can be set to one of the two valve states by means of the valve actuating element (27), and that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) is configured such that the actuating element (7) can be actuated for setting the operating state of the motor (4) only when the valve (8) has been brought into the open state (40) by means of the valve actuating element (27).

7. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the valve (8) can be set to one of the two valve states by means of the actuating element (7).

8. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 6, characterized in that the actuating element (7) has a pivot lever (9) with a first end position, that the valve (8) is set to the closed state (20) only in the first end position of the pivot lever (9), and, in particular, that the motor (4) is set to the OFF state (10) before the first end position is reached.

9. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that in the OFF state (10) of the motor (4), a pressure acts on the valve (8) in the closed state (20) by the liquid in the delivery line (5), said pressure being at most 15 bar, in particular at most 10 bar, preferably at most corresponding to the prevailing line pressure.

10. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the valve (8) is arranged in the delivery line (5) between the delivery pump (3) and the spray outlet (6).

11. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) comprises a gun (11), that the actuating element (7) is arranged on the gun (11), and that the delivery pump (3) is formed separately from the gun (11).

12. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) is configured such that the magnitude of the volume flow of the liquid conveyed through the delivery line (5) can be set by an electrical volume signal selectable by means of the actuating element (7).

13. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 12, characterized in that the electrical volume signal can be selected continuously and can be adjusted continuously by means of the actuating element (7).

14. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 13, characterized in that the actuating element (7) has a first end position in which the valve (8) is in the closed state (20), that the actuating element (7) has a second end position in which the valve (8) is in the open state (40), that the actuating element (7) moves over a travel distance between the first end position and the second end position, and that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) is configured such that the conveyed volume flow is, at least over sections, proportional to the travel distance covered by the actuating element (7).

15. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) comprises a bypass line (12), that the bypass line (12) connects the delivery line (5) between the delivery pump (3) and the spray outlet (6) to the delivery line (5) between the connection (2) and the delivery pump (3), and that a pressure relief valve (13) is arranged in the bypass line (12).

Images