Separation unit for a suction device with a restricted movable flap

Abstract

A separation unit (113) for a suction device (100) is described. The separation unit (113) comprises a collecting container enclosed by a housing wall (227), wherein the collecting container has an inlet opening (211) arranged on the housing wall (227) for a suction air flow (212), which is covered with a flexible flap (200). The flexible flap (200) is fastened to the housing wall (227) via a main edge (301) of the flap (200) and has a first partial region and a second partial region following along the main edge (301). The flap (200) is designed such that the flap (200) is bent away from the housing wall (227) into the collecting container by a force acting on the flap (200) from the outside, thereby exposing the inlet opening (211) at least in part.The separation unit (113) is designed such that the bending away of the first partial region of the flap (200) is more restricted than the bending away of the second partial region of the flap (200).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a separation unit for a suction device, in particular for a cordless and / or hand-held vacuum cleaner.

[0002] A suction device, in particular a handheld vacuum cleaner, typically comprises a suction unit that can be carried and guided by a user by hand. The suction unit has a fan that is operated with electrical energy from an electrical energy storage device of the suction unit. The fan is designed to generate a suction air flow in order to suck contaminants through the suction mouth of the suction unit into the separation unit of the suction unit, wherein the separation unit has a collection container for contaminants. To increase the suction power of the suction unit, the suction air flow is preferably introduced into the separation unit and / or guided within the separation unit in such a way that the suction air flow flows in a cyclone-like manner around the central filter unit of the separation unit.

[0003] DE 10 2021 203 242 A1 describes a dirt separator for a vacuum cleaner. CN 1 12 401 741 A describes a vacuum cleaner.

[0004] This document deals with the technical task of further optimising the flow direction of the suction air flow within the separation unit of a suction unit, in particular in order to achieve a permanently high suction power even during prolonged use of the suction unit.

[0005] The object is achieved 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 drawings.

[0006] According to one aspect, a separation unit for a suction device is described. The separation unit comprises a collecting container enclosed by a housing wall. The separation unit can have a longitudinal axis, and the housing wall of the collecting container can be (circularly) cylindrical around the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis can run centrally within the collecting container. The housing wall can, for example, correspond to the outer surface of a hollow cylinder and / or the longitudinal axis can correspond to the vertical axis of the hollow cylinder. The collecting container can extend from a first end face (e.g., end face or end plane) along the longitudinal axis to a second end face (e.g., end face or end plane). The first end face can face the fan of the suction device. A lid for emptying the collecting container can be arranged on the opposite second end face.

[0007] The collection container can have a specific overall length along the longitudinal axis from the first end face to the second end face (e.g., between 10 cm and 20 cm). Furthermore, the collection container can have a specific overall diameter transverse to the longitudinal axis (i.e., in the radial direction to the longitudinal axis) (e.g., between 8 cm and 12 cm).

[0008] The first end face (where the fan is arranged) can extend substantially entirely within a specific transverse plane arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The second end face (where the lid is arranged) can extend within a plane arranged obliquely to the longitudinal axis, wherein the oblique arrangement of the second end face and in particular of the lid can be advantageous for emptying the collecting container.

[0009] The collection container has an inlet opening arranged on the housing wall, which is preferably closed and / or covered with a (flexible) flap. The flap can be made of a plastic, in particular of a flexible and / or elastic plastic. The inlet opening is preferably arranged on the top side of the collection container (which is intended to be oriented upwards during operation). Furthermore, the inlet opening is preferably arranged on the first end side of the collection container. At least the inlet opening is preferably closer to the first end side of the collection container along the longitudinal axis than to the opposite second end side of the collection container.

[0010] The separation unit can further comprise a filter unit arranged in the collection container, which is designed to retain dirt particles from the suction air flow (entering the collection container through the inlet opening) on ​​the surface of the filter unit, wherein the surface of the filter unit is preferably (circular) cylindrical around the longitudinal axis. The separation unit is preferably designed such that the suction air flow entering the collection container through the inlet opening flows in a cyclone-like manner (along the circumferential direction) around the filter unit. For this purpose, the separation unit can be designed such that the suction air flow entering the collection container through the inlet opening has a flow direction that runs essentially in the circumferential direction around the longitudinal axis.

[0011] The (cylindrical) filter unit and the (cylindrical) collection container preferably have the same central longitudinal axis. The collection area for collecting the vacuumed dirt particles is typically located between the surface of the filter unit and the inside of the collection container.

[0012] The flap on the inlet opening can have a (rectangular) total surface for (completely) covering the (rectangular) inlet opening. The flap and the inlet opening can each have two (opposite along the circumferential direction) longitudinal edges and two (opposite along the longitudinal axis) transverse edges. The flap can be attached to the housing wall at a main edge. The main edge can be aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis (i.e., the main edge can correspond to a longitudinal edge). Alternatively, the flap can be freely movable at the two transverse edges and at the other longitudinal edge (so that the flap can bend away from the inlet opening into the collecting container in order to open or expose a portion of the inlet opening).

[0013] The flap has a first partial region and a second partial region following along the main edge (in particular along the longitudinal axis). The first partial region of the flap can face the first end face of the collecting container (and the first transverse edge of the flap), and the second partial region of the flap can face the second end face of the collecting container (and the second transverse edge of the flap). Alternatively or additionally, the first partial region of the flap can be closer to the first end face of the collecting container than the second partial region of the flap.

[0014] The flexible flap is designed such that a force acting on the flap from the outside (in the radial direction) bends the flap away from the housing wall or the inlet opening and / or into the collection container, thereby at least partially clearing the inlet opening. The flap can, for example, be bent toward the surface of the filter unit. The force for bending the flap away can be caused by the suction air flow flowing from the outside through the inlet opening into the collection container.

[0015] The separation unit can be designed such that the deflection of the first portion of the flap is more restricted and / or limited than the deflection of the second portion of the flap. Thus, an impulse can be efficiently and reliably applied (by the flap) to the suction air flow through the inlet opening, thereby improving the suction power of the suction device and / or the dust separation efficiency of the separation unit.

[0016] The separation unit is preferably designed such that the suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening flows (in the circumferential direction) around the longitudinal axis (in particular around the surface of the filter unit). The separation unit can further be designed such that, because the bending of the first partial region of the flap is more restricted than the bending of the second partial region of the flap, the flap is aligned with respect to the incoming suction air flow such that the suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening receives an impulse in the direction of the longitudinal axis. This can cause the suction air flow to flow helically around the longitudinal axis within the collecting container.In this way, the dirt particles carried along with the suction air flow can be moved away from the inlet opening (towards the second end face of the collection container) in an efficient and reliable manner, whereby the suction power and / or the separation quality can be increased to a significant extent.

[0017] The separation unit can have a (mechanical) obstacle (arranged within the collection container) that selectively restricts the deflection of the first portion of the flap, and in particular, does not restrict the deflection of the second portion of the flap. The separation unit can, for example, have a support surface (formed by the obstacle) for supporting the first portion of the flap, wherein the support surface is designed to restrict the deflection of the first portion of the flap. The support surface can be designed to accommodate the rear side of the flap facing away from the inlet opening (in the region of the first portion of the flap). In particular, the separation unit can be designed such that the rear side of the first portion of the flap rests on the support surface when a force acts on the flap in a radial direction from the outside (where the force is caused, for example, by the suction air flow).

[0018] By providing a mechanical barrier, the suction air flow circulating around the longitudinal axis within the collection container can be partially blocked in the area of ​​the rear side of the flap (facing the collection container). As a result, the closing force acting on the rear side of the flap is reduced, thereby reducing the force required to open the flap. As a result, the suction power of the suction device can be further increased.

[0019] The separation unit is preferably designed such that the deflection of the second portion of the flap is essentially unobstructed, in particular not by a (mechanical) obstacle. This ensures that the inlet opening can continue to be opened sufficiently wide to accommodate coarse dirt.

[0020] The separation unit may comprise an ejection and / or compression element configured to be moved within the collection container in order to compress dirt particles located in the collection container and / or expel them (via the second end face) from the collection container. The ejection and / or compression element may, in particular, be configured to be moved (starting from a basic position, e.g., located on the first end face) along the longitudinal axis across the surface of the filter unit (in particular toward the second end face of the collection container).

[0021] The ejection and / or compression element can be configured to form a (mechanical) obstacle that selectively restricts the deflection of the first partial region of the flap (and not the second partial region of the flap). For this purpose, the ejection and / or compression element is preferably arranged in the basic position in alignment with the first partial region of the flap along the radial direction (relative to the longitudinal axis). By using the ejection and / or compression element as an obstacle, the selective restriction of the freedom of movement of the first partial region of the flap can be achieved in a particularly efficient and reliable manner.

[0022] The ejection and / or compression element is preferably designed as a ring with an inner edge facing the surface of the filter unit and an outer edge facing the housing wall. A surface of the ring extending between the inner edge and the outer edge (facing the second end face of the collection container) can be efficiently and reliably designed as a support surface for depositing the first portion of the flap.

[0023] The normal vector of the support surface (perpendicular to the support surface) can run obliquely to the longitudinal axis. The angle between the longitudinal axis and the normal vector of the support surface is preferably between 10° and 45°. Furthermore, the normal vector of the support surface can have a directional component that points radially out of the collection container. With such a support surface, the flap can be oriented in a particularly advantageous manner to create a helical suction air flow within the collection container.

[0024] The (annular) ejection and / or compression element can have an annular surface that encompasses the support surface for the first portion of the flap. The annular surface of the ejection and / or compression element can extend radially from the inner edge to the outer edge. The annular surface can face the second end face of the collection container. The normal vector of the annular surface can align parallel to the longitudinal axis with increasing angular distance from the support surface. The annular surface of the ejection and / or compression element can thus have a section that is inclined (with respect to the longitudinal axis) (serving as a support surface for the flexible flap). Outside the inclined section, the annular surface of the ejection and / or compression element can extend substantially within the transverse plane (aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis).Thus, even when an inclined support surface is provided for the flap, a reliable compression and / or ejection function of the ejection and / or compression element can still be provided.

[0025] The flap can have a linear predetermined bending point, which enables the second partial area to bend around an additional bending axis. The predetermined bending point and / or the additional bending axis can extend linearly between the first partial area and the second partial area. The main edge of the flap can form a main bending axis of the flap (around the longitudinal axis). The predetermined bending point and / or the additional bending axis can be aligned obliquely to the main bending axis.

[0026] The predetermined bending point can be implemented as a local (linear) thinning and / or by a locally modified material of the flap. In particular, the flap can have a thinner and / or different material locally along the additional bending axis (compared to the areas of the flap without the predetermined bending point). The linear predetermined bending point can be designed, in particular, as a film hinge, especially when the flap is made of a plastic, especially a flexible plastic.

[0027] The flap can be designed such that the second partial area of ​​the flap is bent into the collection container around the additional bending axis by a force acting on the second partial area from the outside (in the radial direction). By providing a flap with a linear predetermined bending point, the impulse caused by the flap (along the longitudinal axis) can be further amplified to create a helical suction air flow in a particularly reliable manner.

[0028] As already explained above, the additional bending axis of the desired bending point can run obliquely to the main bending axis (i.e., to the main edge), in particular such that the desired bending point forms a triangular second sub-region. This allows the impulse generated by the flap (along the longitudinal axis) to be further amplified.

[0029] According to a further aspect, a further separation unit for a suction device is described. As already explained, the separation unit comprises a collecting container enclosed by a housing wall. The collecting container can extend along the longitudinal axis from the first end face to the opposite second end face. A (cylindrical) filter unit can be arranged in the collecting container. The features of the separation unit, and in particular of the collecting container, described above can also be applied individually or in combination to this separation unit.

[0030] The collecting container has an inlet opening for a suction air flow arranged on the housing wall. The inlet opening is preferably covered by a flexible flap (as explained above). The inlet opening is preferably arranged on the first end face of the collecting container. At least the inlet opening can be closer to the first end face of the collecting container along the longitudinal axis than to the opposite second end face of the collecting container.

[0031] The separation unit is preferably designed such that a suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening has a flow direction running in the circumferential direction relative to the longitudinal axis. The separation unit can be designed, in particular, as a centrifugal separator. For this purpose, the flow direction of the suction air flow at the inlet opening can have a directional component in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, the flow direction of the suction air flow at the inlet opening can have a (relatively small) directional component in the radial direction. On the other hand, the flow direction of the suction air flow at the inlet opening typically has essentially no directional component along the longitudinal axis.

[0032] The separation unit can comprise a diversion element having a surface that acts on the suction air flow entering the collection container through the inlet opening. The surface of the diversion element can be designed as a guide surface for directing the suction air flow. At least a portion of the suction air flow flowing into the collection container through the inlet opening can thus impinge on the surface of the diversion element, in particular on an inclined section of the diversion element. The normal vector of the inclined section of the surface of the diversion element can run obliquely to the longitudinal axis. The normal vector of the inclined section of the surface of the diversion element preferably has an angle to the longitudinal axis of between 10° and 45°, in particular between 15° and 25°.

[0033] By using a diversion element with an inclined section, an impulse can be created on the suction air flow flowing through the inlet opening, thereby improving the suction power of the suction device and / or the dust separation quality of the separation unit.

[0034] The inclined section of the surface of the diverting element can, in particular, be oriented such that the suction air flow entering the collection container through the inlet opening receives a pulse in the direction of the longitudinal axis. This can cause the suction air flow within the collection container to flow helically around the longitudinal axis. This can efficiently and reliably move the dirt particles entrained by the suction air flow away from the inlet opening (toward the second end face of the collection container), thereby significantly increasing the suction power and / or separation efficiency.

[0035] The inclined section of the surface of the diverting element is preferably arranged radially aligned with the inlet opening (in particular with the first transverse edge of the inlet opening facing the first end face) relative to the longitudinal axis. Thus, a pulse can be applied to the suction air flow directly behind the inlet opening in the flow direction in order to generate the helical suction air flow in a particularly reliable manner.

[0036] The surface of the diversion element can be designed such that the normal vector of the surface of the diversion element is increasingly aligned, in particular smoothly, parallel to the longitudinal axis with increasing distance along the flow direction of the suction air flow, in particular such that the normal vector of the surface of the diversion element is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis from a predefined distance. By smoothly changing the orientation of the surface of the diversion element, the flow direction of the suction air flow can be oriented toward the longitudinal axis in a particularly efficient manner (in particular without causing turbulence).

[0037] The normal vector of the inclined section of the surface of the diverting element preferably has a directional component that points radially out of the collecting container. A surface designed in this way can achieve a helical suction air flow within the collecting container in a particularly reliable manner.

[0038] Furthermore, the normal vector of the inclined portion of the surface of the diverting element is preferably oriented toward the second end face of the collecting container. This allows a particularly reliable helical suction air flow within the collecting container toward the second end face of the collecting container.

[0039] It should be noted that at least a portion of the inclined section of the surface of the diverting element can serve as a support surface for the flexible flap of the separation unit (as explained above). This allows a particularly reliable change in the flow direction of the suction air stream.

[0040] As already explained, the housing wall of the collecting container preferably extends cylindrically, in particular circularly cylindrically, around the longitudinal axis. The diversion element can extend annularly along the inner side of the housing wall around the longitudinal axis. The annular diversion element can have an outer edge facing the housing wall and an inner edge facing away from the housing wall, in particular facing the filter unit of the separation unit.

[0041] The surface of the diverting element can be arranged at a first angular position relative to the longitudinal axis along the radial direction, in alignment with the inlet opening (in particular with the first transverse edge of the inlet opening). The inclined section of the surface of the diverting element can thus be arranged in the region of the first angular position (e.g., starting from the first angular position). The first angular position can, for example, have the value 0°.

[0042] At the first angular position, the inner edge can have an inner edge distance with a first distance value from a reference plane arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (where the reference plane corresponds, e.g., to the rear side of the diverting element facing away from the surface of the diverting element). At the first angular position, the outer edge can have an outer edge distance with a second distance value from the reference plane. The first distance value can be smaller than the second distance value.

[0043] As already explained, the collection container can have a specific total length from the first end face to the second end face. The second distance value can, for example, be between 0.5% and 2% of the total length higher or greater than the first distance value. This allows the inclined section of the surface of the diversion element to be provided in a particularly reliable manner.

[0044] The inner edge distance and the outer edge distance can adjust themselves, in particular smoothly, with increasing angular distance, so that the inner edge distance and the outer edge distance have the same distance value, in particular the first distance value, from a second angular position onwards. The second angular position is preferably spaced (in the circumferential direction) between 70° and 110°, approximately 90°, from the first angular position. By adjusting the distance value, the normal vector of the surface of the diversion element can be gradually aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis. This can achieve a particularly reliable change in the flow direction of the suction air flow.

[0045] The inner edge distance and the outer edge distance can each have the same distance value starting from the second angular position. The common distance value can increase (smoothly) with increasing angular distance from the second angular position, in particular such that the inner edge distance and the outer edge distance have a third distance value at a third angular position. The third angular position can be spaced, for example, between 350° and 360°, for example between 353° and 359°, from the first angular position. Furthermore, the third distance value can be higher or greater than the first distance value by 5% or more, in particular between 5% and 20%, of the total length of the collecting container.

[0046] The surface of the annular diversion element may have a step between the third angular position and the first angular position at which the distance value of the inner edge distance and the outer edge distance is (abruptly) reduced to the second distance value and to the first distance value, respectively.

[0047] Thus, a diversion element can be provided that has a ramp-shaped surface (in the circumferential direction) that acts on the suction air flow in the collection container (and thus serves as a guide surface for the suction air flow). This allows a helix-like suction air flow to be achieved in a particularly reliable manner.

[0048] As already explained, the separation unit can comprise an (annular) ejection and / or compression element that is designed to be moved within the collection container in order to compress dirt particles arranged in the collection container and / or to expel them from the collection container. The ejection and / or compression element can in particular be designed to be moved (starting from the basic position, e.g. arranged on the first end face) along the longitudinal axis over the surface of the filter unit (in particular towards the second end face of the collection container). In the basic position, the ejection and / or compression element is preferably arranged along the radial direction (with respect to the longitudinal axis) in alignment with the inlet opening (in particular with the first transverse edge of the inlet opening).

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the ejection and / or compression element is designed as a diverting element having a surface that acts on the suction air flow. In other words, the diverting element can be designed as an (annular) ejection and / or compression element. This allows the flow direction of the suction air flow to be determined particularly efficiently.

[0050] According to a further aspect, a further separation unit for a suction device is described. As already explained, the separation unit comprises a (cylindrical) collecting container enclosed by a housing wall. The collecting container can extend along the longitudinal axis from the first end face to the opposite second end face. A (cylindrical) filter unit can be arranged in the collecting container. The features of the separation unit, and in particular of the collecting container, described above can also be applied individually or in combination to this separation unit.

[0051] The collection container has an inlet opening for a suction air flow arranged on the housing wall. The inlet opening is preferably covered by a flexible flap (as explained above). The inlet opening is preferably arranged on the first end face of the collection container. At least the inlet opening can be closer to the first end face of the collection container along the longitudinal axis than to the opposite second end face of the collection container.

[0052] The separation unit is preferably designed such that a suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening has a flow direction running in the circumferential direction relative to the longitudinal axis. The separation unit can be designed, in particular, as a centrifugal separator. For this purpose, the flow direction of the suction air flow at the inlet opening can have a directional component in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, the flow direction of the suction air flow at the inlet opening can have a (relatively small) directional component in the radial direction. On the other hand, the flow direction of the suction air flow at the inlet opening typically has essentially no directional component along the longitudinal axis.

[0053] The separation unit may comprise an (annular) diverting element having a surface that acts on the suction air flow entering the collection container through the inlet opening. At least a portion of the suction air flow entering the collection container through the inlet opening can thus impinge on the surface of the diverting element. The surface of the diverting element may be configured as a guide surface for guiding the suction air flow.

[0054] The surface of the (annular) diversion element can extend, at least in a partial section, in a helical and / or spiral shape along the inside of the housing wall around the longitudinal axis, so that the surface of the diversion element has a step with a first edge and a second edge, wherein the first edge and the second edge are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis. The pitch of the helical and / or spiral shape can extend along (in particular parallel to) the longitudinal axis. Furthermore, the pitch can correspond to the height of the step between the first edge and the second edge. The second edge can, for example, be spaced from the first edge by 5% or more, in particular between 5% and 20%, of the total length of the collecting container along the longitudinal axis (i.e., the pitch of the helical and / or spiral shape can correspond to 5% or more, in particular between 5% and 20%, of the total length of the collecting container).

[0055] By providing a helical and / or spiral-shaped guide surface for the suction air flow entering the collection container, an impulse can be efficiently and reliably applied to the suction air flow in the direction of the longitudinal axis. This can cause the suction air flow to flow helically around the longitudinal axis within the collection container. This can efficiently and reliably move the dirt particles entrained by the suction air flow away from the inlet opening (toward the second end face of the collection container), thereby increasing the suction power and / or separation efficiency.

[0056] The step of the surface of the diverting element preferably runs obliquely to the longitudinal axis. In particular, the step of the surface of the diverting element can have an angle to the longitudinal axis of between 1° and 7°, in particular between 2° and 6°, approximately 5°. An inclined step can reliably prevent turbulence at the (second) edge of the step, thereby further increasing the suction power and / or separation efficiency of the separation unit.

[0057] The surface of the diverting element can be rounded in the circumferential direction at the first edge and / or the second edge (e.g., with a specific rounding radius). By rounding the first and / or second edge, turbulence in the suction air flow at the step can be avoided in a particularly reliable manner, thereby further increasing the suction power and / or separation efficiency of the separation unit.

[0058] As already explained, the diversion element can be annular (around the longitudinal axis). The step, in particular the first edge of the step, can be arranged at a specific angular position relative to the longitudinal axis. This angular position can be referred to as the first angular position (and can correspond, for example, to 0°). The surface of the diversion element can then extend (exactly once) around the longitudinal axis starting from the first angular position (and can thus cover an angular range of 360°).

[0059] The surface of the diverting element (in particular the first edge of the step) can be arranged at the first angular position with respect to the longitudinal axis along the radial direction in alignment with the inlet opening, in particular in alignment with the first transverse edge of the (rectangular) inlet opening facing the first end face. Furthermore, the surface of the diverting element can be increasingly displaced along the longitudinal axis toward the second end face following the first angular position with increasing angular distance from the first angular position, so that the helical surface of the diverting element is formed.

[0060] As already explained, the first edge of the step can be arranged at the first angular position. The second edge of the step can be arranged at an angular position referred to in this document as the fourth angular position. The fourth angular position and the first angular position can be spaced apart by 2° or more, approximately between 2° and 7°, e.g., by 5°. The surface of the diverting element, in particular the outer edge of the surface of the diverting element facing the inside of the housing wall, can extend substantially rectilinearly from the second edge at the fourth angular position to the first edge at the first angular position. In this way, the inclined step of the diverting element can be provided in a particularly reliable manner.

[0061] From a second angular position, the surface of the diversion element can be increasingly shifted along the longitudinal axis towards the second end face with increasing angular distance from the second angular position up to a third angular position, so that the helical surface is formed. The second angular position can be spaced (in the circumferential direction) between 70° and 110°, approximately by 90°, from the first angular position. The third angular position can be spaced (in the circumferential direction) between 1° and 15° from the first angular position, in particular from the first angular position increased by 360°. The surface of the diversion element can have a consistent, constant gradient in the circumferential direction between the second angular position and the third angular position. This can result in particularly reliable and efficient deflection of the suction air flow towards the longitudinal axis.

[0062] The surface of the diverting element can have a smaller gradient along the circumferential direction between the third angular position and the fourth angular position than between the second angular position and the third angular position. In particular, the surface of the diverting element can have substantially no gradient along the circumferential direction between the third angular position and the fourth angular position. The fourth angular position can be spaced between 5° and 10° from the third angular position. By providing a flattened section of the surface at the second edge of the step, the extent of turbulence in the suction air flow at the step of the diverting element can be further reduced.

[0063] The normal vector of the surface of the diverting element may have directional components in the radial direction and in the axial direction with respect to the longitudinal axis between the first angular position and the second angular position (to provide the aforementioned inclined portion of the surface of the diverting element).

[0064] On the other hand, the normal vector of the surface of the diverting element between the second angular position and the third angular position can have directional components in the circumferential direction and in the axial direction relative to the longitudinal axis. Furthermore, the normal vector of the surface of the diverting element between the second angular position and the third angular position preferably has no directional component in the radial direction. The normal vector of the surface of the diverting element can thus be oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis following the second angular position. This is particularly advantageous if the diverting element is additionally designed as an ejection and / or compression element.

[0065] As already explained, the separation unit can comprise an (annular) ejection and / or compression element that is designed to be moved within the collection container in order to compress dirt particles arranged in the collection container and / or to expel them from the collection container. The ejection and / or compression element can in particular be designed to be moved (starting from the basic position, e.g. arranged on the first end face) along the longitudinal axis over the surface of the filter unit (in particular towards the second end face of the collection container). In the basic position, the ejection and / or compression element is preferably arranged along the radial direction (with respect to the longitudinal axis) in alignment with the first transverse edge of the inlet opening.

[0066] The surface of the annular ejection and / or compression element has an inner edge facing the surface of the filter unit, which is designed to clean the surface of the filter unit when the annular ejection and / or compression element is moved along the longitudinal axis.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the ejection and / or compression element is designed as a diverting element having a surface that acts on the suction air flow. In other words, the diverting element can be designed as an (annular) ejection and / or compression element. This allows the flow direction of the suction air flow to be determined particularly efficiently.

[0068] According to a further aspect, a suction device, in particular a handheld vacuum cleaner, is described, which comprises the separation unit described in this document. The suction device further comprises a fan configured to generate a suction air flow from the suction mouth of the suction device, through the inlet opening of the separation unit, through the filter unit, and to the fan.

[0069] It should be noted that any aspects of the separation unit and the suction device described in this document can be combined in a variety of ways. In particular, the features of the patent claims can be combined in a variety of ways. Furthermore, the features described in this document for a separation unit can be used individually or in combination in the various described variants of the separation unit.

[0070] The invention will be described in more detail below with reference to embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0071] Showing: Figure 1 shows an exemplary suction device with a suction unit, a suction pipe, and a nozzle; Figures 2a to 2c show different views of a suction unit and the separation unit of a suction unit; Figures 3a to 3b show different views of flexible flaps for covering the inlet opening of a separation unit; Figure 3c shows a schematic representation of a flap in a top view and a side view; Figures 4a to 4d show different views of the flap resting against a contact surface (of the ejection and / or compression element) of the separation unit; Figures 5a to 5c show different views of an exemplary ejection and / or compression element; Figure 5d shows an exemplary profile of the height of the edges of the ejection and / or compression element along the circumferential direction; and Figures 6a and 6b show an exemplary ejection and / or compression element with a ramp running in the circumferential direction for aligning the suction air flow.

[0072] As stated at the beginning, this document is concerned with achieving a particularly advantageous orientation of the cyclone-like suction air flow within the separation unit of a suction device, in particular in order to provide a high suction power even after prolonged use of the suction device without emptying the collection container of the separation unit. In this context, Fig. 1 an exemplary (handheld) vacuum cleaner 100 (as an example of a suction device) comprising a suction unit 110 with an electrical energy storage device 111. The suction unit 110 comprises a (hand) handle 112, which can be grasped by a user with one hand to hold the suction unit 110. The fan of the suction unit 110 creates a suction air flow through the suction mouth 114 of the suction unit 110, via the separation unit 113 of the suction unit 110, and up to the fan. The suction unit 110 can be designed to be used independently as a suction device.

[0073] An accessory 120, 130 can be connected to the suction unit 110 via a coupling 121. In the example shown, the suction unit 110 is connected via a coupling 121 to a suction pipe 120, which in turn is connected via a coupling 121 to a floor nozzle 130.

[0074] Figuren 2a bis 2c show different views of a suction unit 110 and a separation unit 113. The suction air flow 212 caused by the fan 230 is sucked through the suction mouth 114 of the suction unit 110 into the separation unit 113. The separation unit 113 has an outer housing wall 227 which encloses a filter unit 225. A collecting container is formed by the housing wall 227. The suction air flow 212 is sucked through an (inlet) opening 211 formed on the housing wall 227 into the collecting container enclosed by the housing wall 227. When introduced into the collecting container, the suction air flow 212 is preferably directed such that the suction air flow 212 circulates in a cyclone-like manner around the (circular-cylindrical) filter unit 225. The suction air flow 212 is further sucked through the surface of the filter unit 225 towards the central longitudinal axis 220 of the separation unit 113.The contaminants from the suction air flow 212 are retained on the surface of the filter unit 225 and remain in the collection area 226 formed between the filter unit 225 and the housing wall 227.

[0075] The (circular-cylindrical) collecting container formed by the housing wall 227 extends along the longitudinal axis 220 from a first end face 221 (facing the fan 230) to a second end face 222 (facing away from the fan 230). A lid 224 covering the collecting container can be arranged on the second end face 222. The lid 224 can be opened (e.g., folded open) so that contaminants from the collecting area 226 of the collecting container can be removed via the second end face 222.

[0076] An ejection and / or compression element 240 may be arranged within the collection container and is designed to be moved along the longitudinal axis 220. The ejection and / or compression element 240 may, as in Fig. 2b shown, be formed as a ring arranged around the filter unit 225. The ejection and / or compression element 240 can extend radially (relative to the longitudinal axis 220) from the surface of the filter unit 225 to the inside of the housing wall 227.

[0077] The ejection and / or compression element 240 can be arranged in a basic state on the first end face 221 of the collection container. Furthermore, the ejection and / or compression element 240 can be configured to be moved along the longitudinal axis 220 from the first end face 221 to the second end face 222, such that the ejection and / or compression element 240 pushes the contaminants arranged in the collection area 226 toward the second end face 222. This makes it possible to compress the contaminants arranged in the collection area 226 (in the region of the second end face 222) so that the surface of the filter unit 225 is substantially free of contaminants, thus continuing to provide a high suction power.Furthermore, the ejection and / or compression element 240 can conveniently push contaminants out of the collection container along the longitudinal axis 220 via the second end face 222 (and the opened lid 224) in order to empty the collection container.

[0078] Such as in Fig. 2b As shown, the housing wall 227 of the collecting container has a frame 210 that surrounds the opening 211 to the collecting area 226 of the collecting container. The frame 210 is preferably arranged in the immediate vicinity of the first end face 221 of the collecting container. A flexible flap 200 is arranged within the frame 210 and is designed such that the flap 200 closes the opening 211 surrounded by the frame 210 when no suction air flow 212 is produced by the fan 230, ie when no forces act on the flap 200 in a radial direction from the outside into the collecting container. The collection container can thus be closed by the flexible flap 200, so that it can be reliably prevented that contaminants can fall out of the collection container through the opening 211 (e.g., when the separation unit 113 is separated from the suction unit 110 in order to empty the separation unit 113).

[0079] The flap 200 can have a preload that presses the flap 200 toward the frame 210. This can ensure that the flap 200 is closed in a particularly reliable manner when no suction air flow 212 is generated.

[0080] The flap 200 is preferably made of a flexible material (e.g., a flexible plastic), so that the flap 200 is bent away from the frame 210 toward the filter unit 225 under the influence of a force acting on the flap 200 from the outside (caused, for example, by the suction air flow 212), thereby exposing at least part of the opening 211. This allows the suction air flow 212 to enter the collection container from the outside.

[0081] As from Fig. 2b As can be seen, the suction unit 110 can be designed such that the suction air flow 212, starting from the suction mouth 114, initially has a flow direction that is aligned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 220. At the inlet opening 211 and / or at the frame 210, the flow direction of the suction air flow 212 is deflected by approximately 90°, so that the suction air flow 212 flows in the circumferential direction (and thus substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220) through the inlet opening 211 into the collecting container.

[0082] During suction operation, the inlet opening 211 is preferably arranged (with respect to the circumferential direction) on the top side of the housing wall 227 of the collection container. This allows gravity to act on the contaminants in the suction air stream 212 to transport the contaminants into the collection container. On the other hand, due to the orientation of the inlet opening 211, it may happen that (particularly relatively large) dirt particles remain on the outside of the flap 200 and increasingly accumulate on the outside of the flap 200, possibly leading to a blockage of the inlet opening 211.

[0083] The dirt located on the outside of the flap 200 may fall off when the separation unit 113 is separated from the suction unit 110, which may be unpleasant for a user. Furthermore, if the inlet opening 211 becomes clogged, the suction operation must be interrupted, and the separation unit must be cleaned, which may also be unpleasant.

[0084] The flap 200 preferably has one or more predetermined bending points 201, 202 (as shown by way of example in the Figuren 3a bis 3b shown), by means of which the opening angle of at least a partial region of the flap 200 can be increased. A predetermined bending point 201, 202 can be designed, in particular, as a (film) hinge. The flap 200 can have a main hinge 201 that runs along a (main) edge of the frame 210 and that enables opening of the entire flap 200 (i.e., the entire surface of the flap 200). Furthermore, the flap 200 has one or more (linear) predetermined bending points 202, each of which enables additional opening of a respective partial region of the flap 200.

[0085] The flap 200 can, as shown in the example Fig. 3c shown, have a total area 300, e.g., a rectangular total area, wherein the total area 300 completely covers the inlet opening 211. The total area 300 is delimited by a main edge 301 and one or more (in particular three) secondary edges 302. The main edge 301 is typically fixedly connected to the frame 210 of the inlet opening 211, so that the flap 200 cannot be moved away from the frame 210 at the main edge 301. The one or more secondary edges 302 are not connected to the frame 210 of the inlet opening 211 and can be moved away from the frame 210 (by the action of a radial force) to open the inlet opening 211.

[0086] A linear main bending point 201 (e.g., in the form of a film hinge) can be arranged on the main edge 301, which enables a rotational movement of the entire surface 300 of the flap 200 about the linear main bending point 201 (i.e., the main bending axis). The angle of rotation enabled by the main bending point 201 is typically limited (e.g., to 45° or less, or to 30° or less), so that the entire surface 300 of the flap 200 can only be opened up to a certain opening angle by the force of the suction air flow 212. This has the advantage that the flow direction of the suction air flow 212 through the inlet opening 211 has a particularly large directional component in the circumferential direction and only a relatively small directional component in the radial direction. In this way, a robust cyclone-like suction air flow 212 can be reliably achieved within the collection container of the separation unit 113.

[0087] On the other hand, the limitation of the opening angle of the main desired bending point 201 at the main edge 301 of the flap 200 can lead to relatively large dirt particles getting stuck on the outside of the flap 200.

[0088] The flap 200 can therefore have at least one further (linear) predetermined bending point 202, which enables additional rotation or bending of a partial area 305 of the total surface 300 of the flap 200 about the respective predetermined bending point 202 (i.e., about the respective bending axis). A further predetermined bending point 202 (in particular, a further film hinge) thus enables a partial area 305 of the total surface 300 (facing away from the main edge 301) to additionally move away from the frame 210 (in particular under the influence of a relatively large dirt particle). As a result, the inlet opening 211 can be opened further in the corresponding partial area of ​​the inlet opening 211, so that even relatively large dirt particles can reach the collection container.

[0089] The additional bending or rotating away of a partial area 305 of the total surface 300 of the flap 200 is typically not caused by a suction air flow 212 that only has relatively small dirt particles. This further ensures that the flow direction of the suction air flow 212 has the largest possible directional component in the circumferential direction and only a relatively small directional component in the radial direction. On the other hand, the additional bending or rotating away of the partial area 305 of the total surface 300 of the flap 200 can be caused if a relatively large dirt particle, carried along by the suction air flow 212, acts on this partial area 305 of the total surface 300 (and thereby causes a relatively large force in the radial direction).

[0090] By additionally incorporating one or more film hinges 202, which are arranged transversely, longitudinally, diagonally, at the front and / or rear, or in various combinations on the elastic dust retention flap 200, it is thus possible for the flap 200 to open further in at least one or more partial areas 305 of the total area 300 when relatively large particles and / or a relatively large amount of dirt are present in the suction air flow 212, thus preventing dirt from becoming trapped between the flap 200 and the inlet opening 211 of the collection container. Furthermore, the wall orientation of the suction air flow 212 (toward the inside of the housing wall 227) is maintained for better dust separation. This wall orientation is achieved (at relatively high air volumes) by the main film hinge 201 (which, for example, runs along the longitudinal axis 220).At relatively lower air volumes, one or more subsequent longitudinally extending film hinges 202 can cause the flap 200 to open (at least one or more partial areas 305). Thus, even with a relatively low air volume, good wall orientation of the incoming suction air can be ensured.

[0091] The first end face 221 of the collection container of the separation unit 113 is typically oriented upwards during the suction operation of the suction unit 110, while the second end face 222 of the collection container is oriented downwards. Thus, during the suction operation, the contaminants (e.g., dust particles) arranged in the collection area 226 are subject to gravity, moving at least some of the contaminants toward the second end face 222. As a result, during the suction operation, fewer contaminants tend to be located near the first end face 221 than near the second end face 222. Therefore, to maintain the highest possible suction power, it is typically advantageous if the inlet opening 211 for admitting the suction air flow 212 into the collection container is arranged as close as possible to the first end face 221 of the collection container.

[0092] In order to keep the collection area 226 of the collection container of the separation unit 113 in the area of ​​the inlet opening 211 as free as possible from impurities, and thereby to provide a permanently high suction power, it is advantageous if the suction air flow 212 flows helically around the filter unit 225 and towards the second end face 222. For this purpose, the flap 200 on the inlet opening 211 can be designed to align the suction air flow 212 flowing through the inlet opening 211 such that the directional vector of the direction of movement of the suction air flow 212 has a first vector component in the circumferential direction and a second vector component in the longitudinal direction (i.e., along the longitudinal axis 220). The pitch of the helical flow direction of the suction air flow 212 can be defined by the ratio between the first vector component and the second vector component.

[0093] The flap 200 can have one or more (linear) predetermined bending points 202, which make it possible to bend or rotate one or more corresponding partial regions 305 of the total surface 300 of the flap 200 about a respective (bending) axis, wherein the respective (bending) axis runs obliquely with respect to the longitudinal axis 220. The normal vector perpendicular to the bending axis of a predetermined bending point 202 can, in particular, have a directional component oriented toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container. This can cause the suction air flow 212 to be directed toward the second end face 222 by the partial region 305 of the total surface 300 of the flap 200 bent about this bending axis, thereby creating a helical suction air flow 212 in the collecting container of the separation unit 113.

[0094] Fig. 2b shows an exemplary flap 200 with a (linear) predetermined bending point 202, which defines a bending axis that is oriented obliquely to the longitudinal axis 220 such that the flow direction of the suction air stream 212 is directed (by a specific angle) toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container through the partial region 305 of the flap 200 bent around the bending axis. This can cause contaminants to accumulate more on the second end face 222 of the collecting container, and the inlet opening 211 remains free to receive additional contaminants. This can achieve a permanently high suction power.

[0095] Fig. 4a shows an exemplary separation unit 113 with a flexible flap 200, which is pressed away from the frame 210 of the inlet opening 211 into the collection container by the action of the suction air flow 212. The flexible flap 200 is placed on a support surface 403 within the collection container. In particular, the (first) portion of the flap 200 facing the first end face 221 of the collection container is placed on a support surface 403.

[0096] The storage surface 403 can be configured such that the flap 200 placed on the storage surface 403 has a normal vector (perpendicular to the surface 300 of the flap 200) with a directional component along the longitudinal axis 220. This can be achieved in particular by the storage surface 403 having a normal vector that has a directional component along the longitudinal axis and a directional component in the radial direction.

[0097] As explained above, the suction air flow 212 typically flows in the circumferential direction through the inlet opening 211. As a result, the flap 200 is bent about the main bending axis of the main bending point 201 (running parallel to the longitudinal axis 220). Without the provision of a support surface 403, the normal vectors on the curved surface 300 of the flap 200 would only have directional components in the circumferential direction and in the radial direction. Due to the support surface 403, which acts on the (first) partial region of the flap 200 facing the first end face 221 of the collecting container, the flap 200 is bent such that the normal vectors of the curved surface 300 of the flap in the supported (first) partial region also have a directional component along the longitudinal axis 220, wherein this directional component faces the second end face 222 of the collecting container.

[0098] By means of a flap 200 oriented in this way, the flap 200 can impart an impulse to the suction air flow 212 flowing in through the inlet opening 211, which (at least slightly) rotates the flow direction of the suction air flow 212 toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container, so that the flow direction, in addition to a directional component in the circumferential direction, also has a directional component along the longitudinal axis 220 (toward the second end face 222). In this way, a helical suction air flow 212 can be created within the collecting container in an efficient and reliable manner.

[0099] The storage surface 403 can be provided in a particularly efficient manner by the ejection and / or compression element 240. The ejection and / or compression element 240 can have an outer edge 401 facing the inside of the housing wall 227 and an inner edge 402 facing the surface of the filter unit 225. The storage surface 403 can be formed by the surface of the ejection and / or compression element 240 that faces the second end face 222 of the collection container and that extends from the inner edge 402 to the outer edge 401 of the ejection and / or compression element 240. This surface of the ejection and / or compression element 240 typically serves to push the contaminants in the collection area 226 of the collection container toward the second end face 222 of the collection container.

[0100] Fig. 4b shows the storage area 403 in a perspective through the inlet opening 211 of the collection container. Figuren 4c and 4dshow how the flexible flap 200 is placed on the support surface 403 formed by the ejection and / or compression element 240 and is thereby bent towards the second end face 222 of the collecting container.

[0101] Figuren 5a bis 5c show further details of an exemplary (annular) ejection and / or compression element 240. As particularly shown in Fig. 5b As can be seen, the (annular) surface 503 of the ejection and / or compression element 240 facing the second end face 222 of the collecting container for providing the storage surface 403 for the flexible flap 200 can have an orientation 520 which runs obliquely to the longitudinal axis 220, so that the orientation 520 (ie the normal vector) of the surface 503 of the ejection and / or compression element 240 does not run parallel to the longitudinal axis 220, but has a directional component which points outwards in the radial direction.

[0102] The outer edge 401 of the ejection and / or compression element 240 can have an outer edge distance 511 from a reference plane 510 (which is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220) in the region of the support surface 403. The reference plane 510 can correspond, for example, to the rear side of the ejection and / or compression element 240 (facing the first end face 221). The inner edge 402 of the ejection and / or compression element 240 can have an inner edge distance 512 from the reference plane 510 in the region of the support surface 403. The inner edge distance 512 is greater than the outer edge distance 511, so that the support surface 403, which runs (essentially rectilinearly) between the inner edge 402 and the outer edge 401, is inclined outward in the radial direction.

[0103] As explained further below, the surface 503 of the ejection and / or compression element 240 facing the second end face 222 can be used to directly influence the flow direction of the suction air stream 212. It is therefore advantageous to limit the oblique orientation 520 of the surface 503 of the ejection and / or compression element 240 to the partial region (in particular to the angular region) of the ejection and / or compression element 240 that is arranged directly below the inlet opening 211 along the radial direction. In other partial regions (in particular in other angular regions) of the ejection and / or compression element 240, it may be advantageous to align the surface 503 parallel to the longitudinal axis 220.

[0104] Fig. 5d shows an exemplary distance 511 of the outer edge 401 (dashed) and an exemplary distance 512 of the inner edge 402 (dotted) as a function of the angular position 530 around the longitudinal axis 220. The inclined support surface and / or the inclined section 403 is provided in the angular range between the first angular position 531 and the second angular position 532. The orientation 520 of the surface 503 of the ejection and / or compression element 240 is changed smoothly from a maximum angle (e.g., 20°) relative to the longitudinal axis 220 (at the first angular position 531) to a parallel arrangement to the longitudinal axis 220 (at the second angular position 532). This is advantageous for guiding the suction air flow 212 by the surface 503 of the ejection and / or compression element 240.From the second angular position 532, the orientation 520 of the surface 503 of the ejection and / or compression element 240 may be oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 220.

[0105] As from Fig. 5d As can be seen, the outer edge 401 has a constant first distance value 541 to the reference plane 510 between the first angular position 531 and the second angular position 532. On the other hand, the inner edge distance 512 of the inner edge 402 is reduced smoothly (possibly linearly) from a relatively high second distance value 542 (at the first angular position 531) to the first distance value 541 (at the second angular position 532).

[0106] The angled flap 200 can create a spiral-shaped suction air flow 212 directed toward the second end face of the collection container. As a result, the volume flow of the suction air flow 212 acting on the rear side of the flap 200, thereby creating a closing force to close the inlet opening 211, can be reduced. As a result, the effective opening degree of the inlet opening 211 can be increased, thereby reducing the flow resistance of the inlet opening 211 and increasing the suction power.

[0107] The spiral-shaped suction air flow 212 can also cause contaminants to be conveyed to the second end face 222 of the collecting container and thus not reach the first end face 221 behind the ejection and / or compression element 240.

[0108] The angled placement of the flap 200 on a support surface 403 of the ejection and / or compression element 240 allows the ejection and / or compression element 240 to be activated even during suction operation of the suction unit 110 to compress contaminants (without having to switch off the fan 230). This further increases the comfort of the suction unit 110.

[0109] This results in improved separation efficiency in a centrifugal separator 113. This can be achieved, in particular, by generating a spiral air flow around the filter after the air flow 212 has passed through the inlet opening 211.

[0110] In a centrifugal separator 113 for a vacuum cleaner 100, in which the inlet 211 is covered by a movable (preferably one-piece) elastic flap 200, the flap 200 can have two (preferably connected) sections, an upper (i.e., first) section (relative to the longitudinal axis 220) and a lower (i.e., second) section. The flap 200 is opened by the sucked-in air 212. In doing so, the upper section or the upper edge of the flap 200 touches an obstacle (e.g., a bevel on the scraper ring, i.e., on the ejection and / or compression element 240).As a result, the flap 200 is opened asymmetrically (not a complete cross-sectional opening) with respect to the longitudinal axis 220 (as seen through the air flow 212), so that the air flow 212 experiences at least a downward spiral movement (toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container) due to the inclined position of the flap 200 in the upper portion of the flap 200 (facing the first end face 221). In other words, not only is a spiral air flow created perpendicularly around the longitudinal axis 220, but also a spiral swirl or impulse in the direction of the air flow. This creates not only an air flow around the internal filter unit 225, but also a swirl and / or impulse in the direction of the suction flow. This allows dirt particles to reach the inside of the housing wall 227 of the collecting container more easily, thus improving the separation efficiency.

[0111] Thus, a centrifugal separator (i.e., a separation unit) 113 is described with an inlet 211 covered by a movable, elastic flap 200. The centrifugal separator 113 further comprises an obstacle (e.g., in the form of a support surface 403) that restricts the opening movement of the flap 200 at the upper or first edge (facing the first end face 221 of the collecting container).

[0112] The flap 200 can be arranged in a rest position between the inlet opening 211 and the centrifugal separator 113. The inlet opening 211 and the flap 200 can each be approximately rectangular. The obstacle can be arranged in or on the centrifugal separator 113. The obstacle can be formed, in particular, by the scraper ring, i.e., by the ejection and / or compression element 240 (optionally with a bevel at the inflow area).

[0113] As in connection with Fig. 5d As explained above, the surface 503 of the ejection and / or compression element 240 can have an inclined section 403 in which the normal vector of the surface 503 runs obliquely to the longitudinal axis 220. The inclined section 403 can serve, at least in part, as a support surface for the flap 200. The ejection and / or compression element 240 can generally be regarded as a diversion element that is designed to at least partially divert the suction air flow 212 that has entered the collecting container. It should be noted that the aspects described in this document with reference to an ejection and / or compression element 240 are generally applicable to a diversion element.

[0114] The normal vector of the inclined section 403 of the surface 503 can have a directional component in the radially outward direction (out of the collecting container). Furthermore, the normal vector of the inclined section 403 of the surface 503 can have a directional component in the axial direction along the longitudinal axis 220 toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container. The angle between the longitudinal axis 220 and the normal vector of the inclined section 403 can be smoothly reduced from a maximum value (e.g., 20°) at the first angular position 531 to 0° at the second angular position 532. The second angular position 532 can be spaced approximately 90° along the circumferential direction from the first angular position 531. Such a course of the surface 503 can create a helical suction air flow 212 within the collecting container in a particularly reliable and efficient manner.

[0115] As is particularly evident from Fig. 5d As can be seen, the surface 503 of the ejection and / or compression element 240 (generally the diversion element) can be designed such that the distance value of the inner edge distance 512 and the outer edge distance 511 (ie the distance of the surface 503 of the ejection and / or compression element 240) from the reference plane 510 increases with increasing angular position 530, so that a spiral ramp is provided in the circumferential direction. In the Fig. 5d In the example shown, the distance 511, 512 of the surface 503 increases from the second angular position 532 to the third angular position 533, starting from the first distance value 541, smoothly (e.g., with a constant gradient in the circumferential direction) up to a third distance value 543. The third distance value 543 can, for example, be greater than the first distance value 541 by up to 20% of the total length of the collecting container (along the longitudinal axis 220). The third angular position 533 can, for example, correspond to an angle between 340° and 360°. By providing a ramp-shaped surface 503, the flow direction of the suction air flow 212 entering the collecting container can be changed in a particularly reliable manner in order to bring about a helical or spiral-shaped suction air flow 212.

[0116] In the Fig. 5d In the example shown, the surface 503 optionally has a constant third distance value 543 between the third angular position 533 and a fourth angular position 534. The fourth angular position 534 can, for example, be spaced between 2° and 10° from the third angular position 533. By providing such a flattened region of the surface 503, the gradient of the ramp-shaped surface 503 and the height (along the longitudinal axis 220) of the step 500 formed thereby can be flexibly adjusted to effect an optimized change in the flow direction of the suction air flow 212.

[0117] Between the fourth angular position 534 and the first angular position 531, the distance value of the distance 511, 512 of the surface 503 is reduced relatively abruptly to the first distance value 541 (at the outer edge 401) or to the second distance value 542 (at the inner edge 402), so that a step 500 is created. Between the fourth angular position 534 and the first angular position 531, there is preferably an angular distance of 1° or more, in particular of 3° or more, so that the step 500 has a negative gradient that is less than infinity in magnitude; and / or the normal vector of the surface 503 in the region of the step 500 has a specific angle (e.g., of 1° or more, in particular of 3° or more) relative to the transverse plane of the collecting container that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220; and / or the surface 503 in the region of the step 500 has a specific angle (e.g., of 1° or more, in particular of 3° or more) relative to the longitudinal axis 220.

[0118] The first (lower) edge 501 of the step 500 may be arranged at the first angular position 531, and the second (upper) edge 502 of the step 500 may be arranged at the fourth angular position 534. The surface 503 may be substantially straight between the first edge 501 and the second edge 502. In particular, the inner edge 402 and the outer edge 401 may each be substantially straight between the first edge 501 and the second edge 502.

[0119] Thus, an ejection and / or compression element 240 (generally a diversion element) with a ramp-shaped and / or spiral-shaped surface 503 can be provided. The step 500 of the surface 503 can be slightly inclined. This reliably prevents the suction air flow 212 from breaking off at the second (upper) edge 502 of the step 500, thereby achieving a high separation efficiency of the separation unit 113.

[0120] As already explained, the separation unit 113 can thus have a scraper ring (i.e., an ejection and / or compression element 240) which, in the region of the inlet opening 211 of the collecting container, has a specific incline (e.g., approximately 20°) relative to a reference plane 510 (wherein the reference plane 510 is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220). The incline of the surface 503 relative to the reference plane 510 can be in the radial direction. The surface 503 of the scraper ring (i.e., the ejection and / or compression element 240) can thus have an inclined section 403.

[0121] The first edge 501 of the ejection ring (i.e., the ejection and / or compression element 240) can be arranged flush with the transverse edge of the inlet opening 211 (facing the first end face 221 of the collecting container). Furthermore, the inclined section 403 can extend from the first edge 501 of the ejection ring (i.e., the ejection and / or compression element 240) in the circumferential direction over a specific angular range. The inflowing air 212 is deflected by this inclined surface 403 toward the second end face 222, thereby creating a monocyclone directed toward the second end face 222 within the collecting container.

[0122] The scraper ring (i.e., the ejection and / or compression element 240) is preferably shaped such that the surface 503 of the scraper ring (i.e., the ejection and / or compression element 240) has the inclination only in the region of the inlet opening 211 (e.g., limited to an angular range of 90°). Apart from the inclined portion 403, the surface 503 of the scraper ring (i.e., the ejection and / or compression element 240) can extend within the transverse plane of the collecting container (which is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220).

[0123] Due to the inclined section 403 and the resulting monocyclone directed toward the second end face 222, the suction air flow 212 can be directed specifically toward the second end face 222, resulting in better dirt separation and reduced turbulence in the suction air flow 212. Furthermore, the air flow toward the first end face 221 is reduced, so that deposition of dirt particles on the rear side of the ejection ring (i.e., the ejection and / or compression element 240) can be avoided.

[0124] The inclined section 403 can cause the flap 200 to close reliably when using an optional flap 200 at the inlet opening 211.

[0125] As already explained, the surface 503 of the scraper and / or ejection ring (i.e., the ejection and / or compression element 240) preferably does not have an inclination over the entire circumference, but only within the inclined section 403. This can ensure that the scraper and / or ejection ring (i.e., the ejection and / or compression element 240) continues to have the greatest possible stroke along the longitudinal axis 220 in order to eject dirt particles from the collection container.

[0126] Thus, if necessary in addition to a helical air guide, a swirl or impulse can be created in order to achieve a helical air guide within the collecting container. For this purpose, the spiral surface 503 on the scraper ring (i.e. on the ejection and / or compression element 240) in the inflow region of the collecting container (i.e. at the inlet opening) can be inclined by approximately 20° (radially outwards) relative to the transverse plane (arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220). The inclination preferably drops back to 0°, e.g. after a quarter circle. Preferably, the inner boundary line (i.e. the inner edge 512) of the air guide surface (i.e. the surface 503) is arranged elevated (with respect to the longitudinal axis 220) relative to the outer boundary line (i.e. relative to the outer edge 401).

[0127] The suction air 212 can thus be directed specifically onto the spiral-shaped surface 503, additionally generating a swirl or impulse on the suction air 212 along the air flow. This allows for improved separation of dust particles by the separation unit 113.

[0128] In one example, the inclination may extend across the entire spiral surface 503. In other words, the inclined portion 403 may extend across the entire surface 503 and across the entire angular range (of 360°) to further increase the momentum of the suction air flow 212 toward the second end face 222 of the collection container.

[0129] Figuren 6a and 6b show, by way of example, the step 500 of the ramp-shaped surface 503 of the ejection and / or compression element 240. As in Fig. 6bAs shown, the surface 503 at the step 500 preferably has a certain angle 621 (e.g., between 1° and 7°, approximately 5°) relative to the longitudinal axis 220. In this way, turbulence of the suction air flow 212 at the second (upper) edge 502 of the step 500 can be reliably avoided, thereby further increasing the separation efficiency of the separation unit 113.

[0130] The ejection ring (i.e., the ejection and / or compression element 240) can thus be provided with a ramp in the circumferential direction, through which the incoming dust and / or dirt is conveyed toward the second end face 222 of the collection container. This can positively influence the efficiency of the suction device 100 and the dust load of the collection container of the separation unit 113.

[0131] The step 500 of the ejection ring (i.e., of the ejection and / or compression element 240) following the ramp preferably has an inclined wall (with respect to the longitudinal axis 220), wherein the wall of the step 500 is preferably arranged in the circumferential direction directly in front of or directly on (the first transverse edge of) the inlet opening 211 of the collecting container. For example, an inclination of the wall (of the step 500) of approximately 95° relative to the transverse plane (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220) can be achieved. An inclined wall can prevent the suction air flow 212 from breaking off in this area, thereby causing turbulence and thus negatively affecting the efficiency and dust load of the separation unit 113.

[0132] The wall (of step 500) can be rounded (with a specific radius) at the first (lower) edge 501 and / or at the second (upper) edge 502. This allows turbulence in the suction air flow 212 to be avoided in a particularly reliable manner.

[0133] A movable scraper and / or ejection ring (i.e., an ejection and / or compression element 240) for a cyclone filter (i.e., for a filter unit 225) in a vacuum cleaner 100 is thus described, wherein the scraper and / or ejection ring (i.e., the ejection and / or compression element 240) has a spirally ascending air guide surface (i.e., surface 503). At the end of the gradient, at the point where the spiral meets itself again, offset by the gradient, an edge surface (i.e., a step 500) is formed, said edge surface not being at a right angle to the cross-sectional area of ​​the cyclone filter (i.e., the filter unit 225), but rather being inclined at between 93° and 98°, preferably at 95°. In this way, flow separation at the height jump (i.e., at the step 500) can be reliably avoided. In this way, the efficiency of a vacuum cleaner 100 can be improved, particularly with regard to dust separation.Furthermore, the dust load of the collection container of the vacuum cleaner 100 can be improved.

[0134] The step 500 (ie the inclined wall) preferably has rounding radii at the respective surface ends of the inclined wall (ie at the first edge 501 and / or at the second edge 502 of the step 500).

[0135] The surface normal (ie, the normal vector) of the inclined wall (ie, the step 500) can be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220 (in particular, parallel to a radial direction). Alternatively, the surface normal of the wall can be oriented at an angle of 0° to +- 30° to the perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220.

[0136] At the beginning and / or end of the inclined wall (i.e., step 500), the air-guiding surface, i.e., surface 503, may have a plane without a gradient (in the circumferential direction). Alternatively or additionally, the air-guiding surface (i.e., surface 503) may have a continuous or discontinuous gradient of the spiral or helix.

[0137] The inner edge 402 of the air guide surface (i.e., the surface 503) preferably has a relatively small distance (e.g., of approximately 1 mm) from the surface of the filter unit 225.

[0138] The measures described in this document can improve the efficiency, particularly the dust separation, of a suction unit 110. Furthermore, the dust loading of the collection container of a separation unit 113 can be optimized.

[0139] 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 a separation unit 113 and / or a suction device 100. List of reference symbols

[0140] 100Suction device (vacuum wiper) 110Suction unit 111Electrical energy storage device 112Handle 113Separation unit 114Suction mouth 120Accessory (suction pipe) 121Coupling 130Nozzle 200(Dust retention) flap 201Main bending point (film hinge) 202Additional bending point (film hinge) 210Frame 211Inlet opening (collection container) 212Suction air 220Longitudinal axis 221First end face (collection container) 222Second end face (collection container) 224Cover 225Filter unit 226Collection area 227Housing wall 230Blower 240Diversion element / discharge and / or compression element 300Total area (flap) 301Main edge 302(free) edge 305Partial area (of the total area) 401Outer edge 402Inner edge 403Inclined section / storage area 500Step 501First (lower) edge 502Second (upper) edge 503Surface of the diversion element or the ejection and / or compression element 510Reference plane (back) 511Outer edge distance 512Inner edge distance 520Normal vector orOrientation (surface) 530Angular position 531, 532, 533, 534Different angular positions 541, 542, 543Distance values ​​621Angle.

Claims

1. Separation unit (113) for a suction device (100); wherein - the separation unit (113) comprises a collecting container enclosed by a housing wall (227); - the collecting container has an inlet opening (211) arranged on the housing wall (227) for a suction air flow (212), which is covered with a flexible flap (200); - the flexible flap (200) is fastened to the housing wall (227) above a main edge (301) of the flap (200); - the flap (200) has a first partial region and a second partial region following along the main edge (301); - the flap (200) is designed such that the flap (200) is bent away from the housing wall (227) into the collecting container by a force acting on the flap (200) from the outside and thereby releases the inlet opening (211) at least in part;and - the separation unit (113) is designed such that the bending away of the first partial region of the flap (200) is more restricted than the bending away of the second partial region of the flap (200).; 2. Separation unit (113) according to claim 1, wherein the separation unit (113) has an obstacle by which the bending away of the first portion of the flap (200) is selectively restricted, and in particular not the bending away of the second portion of the flap (200).

3. Separation unit (113) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the separation unit (113) is designed such that the bending away of the second partial region of the flap (200) is substantially not restricted, in particular not by an obstacle.

4. Separation unit (113) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein - the separation unit (113) has a storage surface (403) for depositing the first partial region of the flap (200); and - the storage surface (403) is designed to restrict the bending away of the first partial region of the flap (200).

5. Separation unit (113) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein - the separation unit (113) has a longitudinal axis (220); - the housing wall (227) of the collecting container is cylindrical around the longitudinal axis (220); - the collecting container extends from a first end face (221) along the longitudinal axis (220) to a second end face (222); - the inlet opening (211) is closer to the first end face (221) along the longitudinal axis (220) than to the second end face (222); and - the first partial region of the flap (200) faces the first end face (221), and the second partial region of the flap (200) faces the second end face (222).

6. Separation unit (113) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein - the separation unit (113) is designed such that the suction air flow (212) entering the collecting container through the inlet opening (211) flows around a longitudinal axis (220); - the main edge (301) runs parallel to the longitudinal axis (220); and - the separation unit (113) is designed such that, because the bending away of the first partial region of the flap (200) is more restricted than the bending away of the second partial region of the flap (200), the suction air flow (212) entering the collecting container through the inlet opening (211) receives an impulse in the direction of the longitudinal axis (220), so that the suction air flow (212) flows helically around the longitudinal axis (220) within the collecting container.

7. Separation unit (113) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein - the separation unit (113) comprises an ejection and / or compression element (240) which is designed to be moved within the collection container in order to compress dirt particles arranged in the collection container and / or to eject them from the collection container; and - the ejection and / or compression element (240) is designed to form an obstacle by which the bending away of the first partial region of the flap (200) is selectively restricted.

8. Separation unit (113) according to claim 7, wherein - the collection container extends along a longitudinal axis (220) from a first end face (221) to a second end face (222); - the separation unit (113) comprises a filter unit (225) arranged in the collection container, which filter unit is designed to retain dirt particles from the suction air flow (212) on a surface of the filter unit (225); and - the ejection and / or compression element (240) is designed to be moved along the longitudinal axis (220) over the surface of the filter unit (225).

9. Separation unit (113) according to claim 8, wherein the ejection and / or compression element (240) is arranged in a basic position along the radial direction with respect to the longitudinal axis (220) in alignment with the first partial region of the flap (200).

10. Separation unit (113) according to one of claims 8 to 9, wherein - the housing wall (227) of the collecting container is cylindrical, in particular circularly cylindrical, around the longitudinal axis (220); - the surface of the filter unit (225) is cylindrical, in particular circularly cylindrical, around the longitudinal axis (220); and - the ejection and / or compression element (240) is designed as a ring with an inner edge (402) facing the surface of the filter unit (225) and an outer edge (401) facing the housing wall (227).

11. Separation unit (113) according to claim 10, wherein the ejection and / or compression element (240) has a storage surface (403) extending between the inner edge (402) and the outer edge (401) for depositing the first partial region of the flap (200).

12. Separation unit (113) according to claim 11, wherein - a normal vector of the storage surface (403) runs obliquely to the longitudinal axis (220); - the normal vector of the storage surface (403) has, in particular, a directional component that points radially out of the collection container; and - an angle between the longitudinal axis (220) and the normal vector of the storage surface (403) is, in particular, between 10° and 45°.

13. Separation unit (113) according to claim 12, wherein - the ejection and / or compression element (240) has an annular surface (503) between the inner edge (402) and the outer edge (401), which comprises the support surface (403) for the first partial region of the flap (200); and - the normal vector of the annular surface (503) aligns parallel to the longitudinal axis (220) with increasing angular distance from the support surface (403).

14. Separation unit (113) according to one of the preceding claims - the flap (200) has a linear predetermined bending point (202) which enables bending of the second partial region about an additional bending axis; and - the flap (200) is designed such that the second partial region of the flap (200) is bent about the additional bending axis into the collecting container by a force acting on the second partial region from the outside.

15. Suction device (100) comprising - a separation unit (113) designed according to one of the preceding claims; and - a fan (230) designed to cause a suction air flow (212) from a suction mouth (114), through the inlet opening (211) of the separation unit (113), through a filter unit (225) and to the fan (230).

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