Floor cleaning machine with locking unit

Abstract

A floor cleaning machine (1) is shown and described, comprising a swivel arm (25) pivotably mounted on a frame (3) about a first pivot axis (27), a locking unit (29) for locking the swivel arm (25) to the frame (3) in at least one pivot direction, a locking lever (31) pivotably connected about a second pivot axis (33) to a component of the swivel arm (25) and the frame (3), wherein the locking lever (31) has a locking projection (35) spaced apart from the second pivot axis (33) and extending away from the locking lever (31) in the direction of the second pivot axis (33), and a cam (37) connected to the other component of the swivel arm (25) and the frame (3), wherein the cam (37) has a first recess (39) in which the locking projection (35) can be received, and wherein the swivel arm (25) between a cleaning position,in which the cleaning element arrangement (7) engages with the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection (35) is released from the cam (37), and can be pivoted to a locking position in which the cleaning element arrangement (7) is spaced from the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection (35) engages with the first recess (39) of the cam (37), being held in the first recess (39) by a force acting on the cleaning element arrangement (7).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a floor cleaning machine with a locking unit for locking a swivel arm which is connected to a cleaning element arrangement.

[0002] In floor cleaning machines that have a cleaning element assembly connected to a swivel arm, the cleaning element assembly can be swiveled between a cleaning position in which it engages with the floor surface to be cleaned and a raised position in which it is spaced away from the floor surface. The cleaning position is used to clean the floor surface with the cleaning element assembly. The raised position allows the floor cleaning machine to be moved across the floor surface without the cleaning element assembly engaging with it. To maintain the raised position, floor cleaning machines with a locking function for the swivel arm connected to the cleaning element assembly are known from the prior art.In known locking mechanisms, the pivot arm is brought into a locking position by pivoting it laterally into a locking notch. Alternatively, locking units are known in which the pivot arm is connected to a separate locking element to hold it in the locking position.

[0003] A disadvantage of the known locking mechanisms is that, due to the high weight of the swivel arm and the cleaning element assembly, lateral pivoting of the swivel arm requires considerable force. When using a separate locking element, it is necessary to hold the swivel arm in the locked position and connect it to the separate locking element. Furthermore, these locking mechanisms pose a risk that the swivel arm will not be correctly moved into or held in the locked position, creating a risk of damage to the swivel arm or the cleaning element assembly if it falls to the ground. These locking mechanisms also present an increased risk of injury during operation and maintenance when pivoting the swivel arm.

[0004] Based on the prior art, the object of the present invention is therefore to provide a floor cleaning machine with a locking mechanism with which the cleaning element arrangement can be held in a position spaced away from the floor surface and released from this position in a particularly simple and safe manner.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by a floor cleaning machine with the features of claim 1. The floor cleaning machine has a frame and a chassis arranged on the frame for moving the floor cleaning machine over a floor surface to be cleaned. Furthermore, the floor cleaning machine has a cleaning element assembly with at least one, preferably driven, cleaning element, wherein the cleaning element is configured to engage with the floor surface to be cleaned. The floor cleaning machine has a pivot arm, which is connected to the cleaning element assembly and pivotably mounted on the frame about a first pivot axis, and a locking unit for locking the pivot arm to the frame in at least one pivot direction.The locking unit comprises a locking lever pivotally connected to the pivot arm and frame about a second pivot axis. The locking lever has a locking projection spaced from the second pivot axis and extending away from the locking lever in the direction of the second pivot axis. The locking unit further comprises a cam connected to the pivot arm and frame, the cam having a first recess in which the locking projection can be received. The first pivot axis is located between the second pivot axis and the cleaning element assembly.The swivel arm can be pivoted between a cleaning position in which the cleaning element assembly engages with the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection is released from the cam, and a locking position in which the cleaning element assembly is spaced away from the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection engages with the first recess of the cam, being held in the first recess by a force acting on the cleaning element assembly. This force is preferably gravity.The cam is designed such that when the swivel arm is pivoted towards the locking position, the locking projection is pivoted by the cam from a neutral position in a first direction and, upon reaching a first turning point, is pivoted in a second direction opposite to the first, so that the locking projection engages with the first recess. The cam is further designed such that the locking projection is pivoted in the second direction when the swivel arm is pivoted beyond the locking position to a second turning point. When the swivel arm is pivoted from the second turning point towards the cleaning position, the locking projection is pivoted in the second direction by the cam.

[0006] The floor cleaning machine comprises a frame and a chassis attached to the frame for moving the machine across the floor surface to be cleaned. The frame is defined as the stationary part of the machine that is connected to the chassis. The frame may be made of steel, aluminum, or a composite material. Additional components, in particular a housing, covers, cross and longitudinal braces, and electronic components, may be attached to the frame. The chassis may have two or more wheels or rollers by means of which the floor cleaning machine can be moved across the floor surface. The chassis may include an electric drive to power the wheels or rollers, thereby facilitating the movement of the machine.

[0007] Furthermore, the floor cleaning machine comprises a cleaning element arrangement with at least one, preferably driven, cleaning element, wherein the cleaning element is designed to engage with the floor surface to be cleaned. For example, the cleaning element can be a rotating, driven brush, in which case the engagement elements are bristles whose free ends engage with the floor surface to be cleaned. However, it is equally conceivable that the cleaning element is a so-called pad, in which the engagement element is formed by a flat material provided on the pad, the surface of which comes into contact with the floor surface to be cleaned. The present invention is not limited to these two examples, however, and any other form of cleaning element can also be used.

[0008] The floor cleaning machine has a swivel arm connected to the cleaning element assembly and pivotably mounted on the frame about a first pivot axis, and a locking unit for locking the swivel arm to the frame in at least one pivot direction. The swivel arm serves to connect the cleaning element assembly to the frame so that it can pivot about the first pivot axis. The first pivot axis preferably runs parallel to the floor surface. This allows the cleaning element to be pivoted away from the floor surface, so that the cleaning element no longer interacts with the floor surface. The swivel arm is preferably made of the same material as the frame of the floor cleaning machine.The cleaning element can be locked in at least one position by the locking unit, allowing the floor cleaning machine to be moved while the cleaning element remains away from the floor surface, without requiring a user to hold the swivel arm in a swiveling position continuously.

[0009] The locking unit comprises a locking lever pivotably connected to the pivot arm and the frame about a second pivot axis. The locking lever has a locking projection spaced apart from the second pivot axis and extending away from the locking lever in the direction of the second pivot axis. The locking lever has the locking projection and is pivotably connected to the pivot arm or the frame about the second pivot axis, such that the locking projection is pivotably mounted on the pivot arm or the frame about the second pivot axis. The locking projection is spaced apart from the second pivot axis, such that the distance of the locking projection from the second pivot axis defines the pivot radius of the locking projection. The locking projection extends in the direction of the second pivot axis.This means that the locking projection extends from the locking lever parallel to the second pivot axis, i.e., it protrudes from the plane of the locking lever. The locking projection can, for example, have one of the following forms: pin, bolt, stud, or hook. This allows for a particularly simple design of the locking unit.

[0010] Furthermore, the locking unit features a cam that is connected to the other components of the pivot arm and the frame. The cam has a first recess in which the locking projection can be received. A cam is understood to be a guide designed to engage with and guide the locking projection. Because the locking projection is located on the pivotable locking lever, the cam is able to deflect or guide the locking projection in a controlled manner, causing it to pivot. The cam can be integral with the pivot arm or the frame, or it can be a separate component connected to the pivot arm or the frame via fasteners. The first recess of the cam is designed to receive the locking projection.This means that the dimensions of the first recess are adapted to the dimensions of the locking projection in order to accommodate the locking projection in the first recess. This allows the cam and the locking projection to engage with each other, so that the locking projection can be firmly connected to the cam and thus to the swivel arm or frame, thereby holding the swivel arm in position.

[0011] The first pivot axis is located between the locking unit and the cleaning element assembly. The pivot arm can be pivoted between a cleaning position in which the cleaning element assembly engages with the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection is released from the cam, and a locking position in which the cleaning element assembly is spaced away from the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection engages with the first recess of the cam, being held in the first recess by a force acting on the cleaning element assembly. This force can be generated by gravity acting on the cleaning element assembly. Alternatively or additionally, the force can be generated by a spring element.The first pivot axis is positioned between the second pivot axis (and thus the locking unit) and the cleaning element assembly in such a way that it acts as a pivot point. The cleaning element assembly is typically heavier than the pivot arm or the end of the pivot arm opposite the cleaning element, so that gravity pushes the cleaning element assembly towards the floor surface, generating a torque around the first pivot axis. Because the first pivot axis is located between the cleaning element assembly and the second pivot axis (or the locking unit), the torque acts in the opposite direction to the floor surface. When the locking projection engages with the first recess, the cam can then easily absorb the torque acting on the locking projection, thus holding the cleaning element assembly in the locked position.

[0012] The cam is designed such that when the pivot arm is moved towards the locking position, the locking projection is pivoted by the cam from a neutral position into a first direction and, upon reaching a first turning point, is pivoted into a second direction opposite to the first, so that the locking projection engages with the first recess. The neutral position is the position that the locking projection or locking lever assumes when it is not in contact with the cam and is not deflected by it. Therefore, the neutral position of the locking lever and the locking projection can be defined as the position in which the locking lever is in equilibrium due to gravity and / or a force exerted by a preload element.This position is reached when the locking lever and locking projection are brought into their most stable, possibly lowest, position within the swivel range by gravity and / or the force exerted by a preload element, while the floor cleaning machine is standing on a horizontal surface. In this position, the locking projection is in the lowest possible position of its range of motion, which corresponds to an equilibrium position, free from any interference by the cam. This has the advantage that the locking projection can assume a defined position if it is not deflected by the cam.

[0013] When the locking projection and locking lever are pivoted from their neutral position, for example along a first guide surface of the cam, a restoring force acts on the locking lever and the locking projection, pushing them back into their neutral positions. This restoring force causes the locking lever to pivot back towards the neutral position when the first reversal point is reached. The first reversal point is the point at which the locking projection comes out of contact with the first guide surface, meaning that the locking projection is no longer pivoted further in the first direction by the cam along the first guide surface.Preferably, the first turning point is reached when the locking projection comes out of contact with the first guide surface of the cam and is located in a direction perpendicular to the base surface below the first guide surface. The first guide surface can be a flat surface or a surface of varying shape. The first guide surface is understood to be the surface that is configured to pivot the locking projection in the first direction. Preferably, the first turning point lies in a direction perpendicular to the base surface below the first guide surface and below the first recess. This has the advantage that, upon reaching the first turning point, the locking projection pivots back towards the neutral position due to gravity and / or, if applicable, the force exerted by a preloading element, until it engages with the first recess.This ensures that the locking position can be reached simply by pivoting the swivel arm around the first pivot axis, without the need to pivot the swivel arm laterally or to require a separate locking element.

[0014] The cam is further designed such that the locking projection is pivoted in the second direction when the pivot arm is pivoted beyond the locking position to a second reversal point. Analogous to the first reversal point, the second reversal point is the point at which the locking projection comes out of contact with the first recess or a second guide surface adjacent to the first recess; that is, the locking projection is no longer pivoted in the first direction by the cam along the second guide surface. Preferably, the second reversal point is reached when the locking projection comes out of contact with the second guide surface of the cam. The second guide surface can be a flat surface or a surface of varying shape.The second guide surface is understood to be the surface adjacent to the first recess and configured to pivot the locking projection in the first direction or to hold it in the pivoted position. Preferably, the second pivot point lies in a direction perpendicular to the base surface, below the second guide surface and below the first recess. More preferably, the second pivot point lies in a direction perpendicular to the base surface, below the first pivot point. This has the advantage that, upon reaching the second pivot point, the locking projection pivots back towards the neutral position due to gravity and / or, if applicable, the force of a preloading element.This ensures that the locking projection can be released from the first recess simply by pivoting the swivel arm around the first pivot axis, without the need to pivot the swivel arm laterally or to require a separate locking element.

[0015] When the swivel arm pivots from the second pivot point towards the cleaning position, the locking projection is pivoted in the second direction by the cam. When the locking projection is pivoted in the second direction, for example along a third guide surface of the cam, a restoring force in the first direction acts on the locking lever and the locking projection, pushing them back into the neutral position. Pivoting the locking projection in the second direction ensures that, once it reaches the neutral position, it can be returned to the locking position. This provides a locking mechanism that always locks and unlocks the swivel arm by pivoting it in one direction.Accordingly, the locking unit follows the functionality of a push button, resulting in particularly simple locking and unlocking.

[0016] The pivoting of the locking projection in the second direction can occur either immediately after passing the second turning point towards the cleaning position or only shortly before the cleaning position is reached. This has the advantage of increasing the design flexibility of the cam profile, allowing for further positions of the locking projection.

[0017] The guide can be made of one or more parts. For example, the guide can consist of an inner guide and an outer guide, with the inner and outer guides forming a guide, at least partially, in which the locking projection is guided. This allows one part of the guide to be used for pivoting the locking projection in the cleaning position and another part for pivoting it in the locking position. This further increases the design flexibility of the guide.

[0018] In summary, it can be stated that the floor cleaning machine according to the invention provides a locking and unlocking function with which the cleaning element arrangement can be held in a position spaced away from the floor surface and released from this position in a particularly simple and safe manner.

[0019] In one embodiment, the locking lever is arranged vertically in the neutral position, such that preferably a line connecting the locking projection and the second pivot axis runs vertically. The neutral position is then the position the locking lever assumes due to gravity. The locking lever is arranged vertically in the neutral position—that is, when it is free from the cam, i.e., not in contact with it—when the locking projection is located centrally, i.e., centrally on the longitudinal axis of the locking lever. This has the advantage that the weight of the locking lever and the locking projection is distributed evenly around the pivot axis. This makes it easier for the locking projection to move into the neutral position under the influence of gravity, since no asymmetrical torque acts that would pull the locking lever out of this position.In the neutral position, the weight forces of the locking lever and locking projection act along the same axis, which has a stabilizing effect. This ensures a clear, stable, and defined neutral position.

[0020] When the locking projection is pivoted in the second direction, for example along the third guide surface of the cam, a restoring force acts on the locking lever and the locking projection in the first direction, pushing the locking lever and the locking projection back into the neutral position. This restoring force causes the locking projection to pivot back into the neutral position when it is released from the cam. This has the advantage that the locking projection automatically pivots back into the neutral position, so that the locking projection can always engage with and release itself from the cam automatically.

[0021] In one embodiment, the cam is arranged such that the first recess is offset in the first direction relative to the neutral position of the locking projection, so that when the locking projection engages with the first recess, it is pivoted in the first direction relative to the neutral position. This has the advantage that the restoring force, which pushes the locking projection back into the neutral position, presses the locking projection against the first recess. This allows for a particularly simple and secure engagement of the locking projection with the first recess.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the cam has a first pivot limiting element that prevents the locking projection from pivoting back to the neutral position when the pivot arm is pivoted beyond the first reversal point. As already mentioned, the locking projection pivots back towards the neutral position due to the force of gravity acting upon it and / or the force of a preload element when the locking projection is released from the cam. The first pivot limiting element is arranged in one direction perpendicular to the base surface below the first reversal point and in the other direction in front of the first recess. This allows a clearance to be formed between the cam and the first pivot limiting element, along which the locking projection can pivot into the first recess.The first pivot limiting element is preferably arranged and designed such that it comes into contact with the locking projection. The first pivot limiting element further ensures that the locking projection does not pivot back to the neutral position when the pivot arm is pivoted beyond the first and second pivot points. This is achieved by pivoting the locking projection past the first pivot limiting element between the first pivot point and the first pivot limiting element, thus ensuring a gradual pivoting of the locking projection. This prevents the locking projection from pivoting past the first recess when the pivot arm is pivoted beyond the first pivot point.

[0023] In a further preferred embodiment, the cam has a second pivot limiting element that prevents the locking projection from pivoting in the second direction beyond the neutral position when the pivot arm is pivoted beyond the second turning point. The second pivot limiting element is preferably arranged and designed such that it comes into contact with the locking projection. The second pivot limiting element is arranged perpendicular to the base surface below the second turning point and spaced apart from the first recess in the second direction. The second pivot limiting element serves to prevent the locking projection from pivoting beyond the neutral position in the second direction after it has passed the second turning point, which could cause the locking projection to oscillate around the neutral position.Accordingly, the second swivel limiting element minimizes the swiveling of the locking projection around the neutral position, ensuring that the locking projection swivels into and remains in the neutral position. This allows the swivel arm to be moved directly from the locked position to the cleaning position without the user having to wait for the locking projection to reach the neutral position.

[0024] Preferably, the backdrop comprises an element with a first surface that acts as the first pivot limiting element and a second surface that acts as the second pivot limiting element. This has the advantage that the first and second pivot limiting elements are formed by a single element, thus reducing the number of backdrop components and resulting in a simpler design.

[0025] Preferably, the first and / or second pivot limiting element has an arcuate, and more preferably a circular, cross-section. This reduces the risk of the locking projection jamming against the first and / or second pivot limiting element.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the cam is designed such that the locking projection pivots back from a position deflected in the second direction to the neutral position when the pivot arm is pivoted towards the cleaning position beyond a third reversal point. Analogous to the first reversal point, the third reversal point is the point at which the locking projection comes out of contact with a third guide surface, meaning that the locking projection is no longer pivoted further in the second direction by the cam, due to the third guide surface. Preferably, the third reversal point is reached when the locking projection comes out of contact with the third guide surface of the cam. The third guide surface can be a flat surface or a curved surface.The third guide surface is defined as the surface extending from the second to the third pivot point, designed to pivot the locking projection in the second direction. Preferably, the third pivot point is located above the third guide surface in a direction perpendicular to the base surface. This has the advantage that, upon reaching the third pivot point, the locking projection pivots back towards the neutral position due to gravity and / or the force of a preloading element. This allows the locking projection to be pivoted back to the neutral position simply by pivoting the swivel arm around the first pivot axis into the cleaning position, without requiring lateral pivoting of the swivel arm or a separate locking element.

[0027] In one embodiment, the third pivot point forms the highest point of the cam relative to the base surface, so that when the locking projection passes the third pivot point, it is released from the cam and pivots back into the neutral position. Once the locking projection has pivoted beyond the third pivot point, it can be pivoted back into the locking position by pivoting the pivot arm again. This allows for a particularly simple locking and unlocking of the pivot arm by simply pivoting the pivot arm around the first pivot axis in one direction.

[0028] Preferably, the locking projection pivots back into the neutral position when it is released from the cam or the third guide surface. This allows the locking projection to pivot back automatically, so that it returns to the neutral position without any action from the cam or any other component. This provides a locking unit that allows for a simple design and requires minimal material.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the cleaning element assembly is pivotably arranged about a third pivot axis at a first end of the pivot arm. Preferably, the third pivot axis is parallel to the first and / or second pivot axis. This ensures that the cleaning element assembly rests flat on the floor surface even when the floor cleaning machine is guided over a floor surface that is at least partially inclined. It also reduces the risk of the cleaning element assembly becoming jammed on unevenness in the floor surface.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the pivot arm has a second end opposite the first end, at which an actuating element is arranged. The actuating element can be designed such that a user can actuate it with a foot. For example, the actuating element can have a pedal for this purpose. The actuating element can be made of a material that has a higher coefficient of friction than the material of the pivot arm, thereby providing the actuating element with greater grip or adhesion.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the pivot arm can be pivoted beyond the locking position to an end position in which the locking lever is in the neutral position and the pivot arm is in contact with the frame. When the pivot arm is in the end position, the locking projection is in its lowest position below the second reversal point. Since the locking projection has been released from the cam in this position, it can pivot towards the neutral position. This allows the locking projection to be guided out of the first recess and released from the cam, thus enabling the pivot arm to be moved into the cleaning position.

[0032] In one embodiment, the swivel arm has a stop element that is in contact with the frame in the end position of the swivel arm. The stop element allows for precise definition of the end position of the swivel arm. Preferably, the stop element includes a damping element. The stop element minimizes damage to the swivel arm or the frame.

[0033] In one embodiment, the chassis has a first chassis axle and a second chassis axle, with at least one roller unit rotatably arranged about each of the chassis axles, the first pivot axis being arranged in a direction parallel to the floor surface between the first and second chassis axles. By arranging the first pivot axis between the first and second chassis axles, the risk of the floor cleaning machine tipping over when a force is applied to the first pivot axis can be reduced.

[0034] In one embodiment, the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis are arranged parallel to each other. This parallel arrangement allows for parallel and synchronous movement of the pivot arm and the locking projection. This has the advantage of enabling the simplest and most reliable locking and unlocking of the pivot arm.

[0035] In one embodiment, the third pivot axis is arranged parallel to the first and second pivot axes. This allows for parallel and synchronous movement of the pivot arm and the cleaning element.

[0036] The present invention will now be explained with reference to a drawing showing only one preferred embodiment, in which Figure 1a schematic side view of an embodiment of a floor cleaning machine according to the invention shows, Figure 2 a further schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment of the floor cleaning machine according to the invention Figure 1 shows, Figures 3a and 3b Schematic partial views of the exemplary embodiment of the floor cleaning machine according to the invention from the Figure 1 and 2 show, Figures 4a to 4c Schematic partial views of the locking unit of the exemplary embodiment from the Figures 1 to 3b show and Figures 5a to 5c Further schematic partial views of the locking unit of the exemplary embodiment from the Figures 1 to 3b show.

[0037] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a floor cleaning machine 1 according to the invention. The floor cleaning machine 1 has a frame 3 and a chassis 5 arranged on the frame 3 for moving the floor cleaning machine 1 over a floor surface to be cleaned. The frame 3 is understood to be the stationary part of the floor cleaning machine 1 that is connected to the chassis 5. The frame 3 can, for example, be made of a steel or aluminum construction or of a composite material.

[0038] Furthermore, the floor cleaning machine 1 has a cleaning element arrangement 7 with a driven cleaning element 9, wherein the cleaning element 9 is designed to engage with the floor surface to be cleaned. The cleaning element 9 is driven by a drive unit 11. For example, the cleaning element 9 can be a brush, in which case the engagement elements are bristles whose free ends engage with the floor surface to be cleaned. However, it is equally conceivable that the cleaning element 9 is a so-called pad, in which the engagement element is formed by a flat material provided on the pad, the surface of which comes into contact with the floor surface to be cleaned.

[0039] The floor cleaning machine 1 has a housing 13 for enclosing the floor cleaning machine 1 and a handle 15 for guiding the floor cleaning machine 1 over the floor surface to be cleaned. The housing 13 can accommodate a fresh water tank for collecting fresh water and a dirty water tank for collecting dirty water.

[0040] The chassis 5 has a first chassis axle 17 and a second chassis axle 19, as shown in the Figures 3a and 3bThe figure shows a first roller unit 21 in the form of two opposing wheels arranged on the first chassis axle 17, and a second roller unit 23 in the form of a guide wheel arranged on the second chassis axle 19. The guide wheel is rotatable about a pivot axis that is arranged perpendicular to the second drive axle 19. The chassis 5 has an electric drive for powering the first roller unit 21, which facilitates moving the floor cleaning machine 1 across the floor surface. In an alternative embodiment, the chassis 5 does not have an electric drive, so that the floor cleaning machine 1 is pushed by the user across the floor surface to be cleaned.

[0041] The floor cleaning machine 1 has a swivel arm 25 which is connected to the cleaning element arrangement 7 and swivels about a first pivot axis 27, as shown in the Figures 3a and 3bThe floor cleaning machine 1 is shown pivotally mounted on the frame 3. Furthermore, the floor cleaning machine 1 has a locking unit 29 for locking the pivot arm 25 to the frame 3. The pivot arm 25 serves to connect the cleaning element assembly 7 to the frame 3 so that it can pivot about the first pivot axis 27. The first pivot axis 27 is arranged parallel to the floor surface and parallel to the first drive axis 17 of the chassis 5. During straight-ahead travel, the first pivot axis 27 is also arranged parallel to the second drive axis 19 of the chassis 5. This allows the cleaning element 9 to pivot away from the floor surface, so that the cleaning element 9 no longer engages with the floor surface. The pivot arm 25 can be made of the same material as the frame 3 of the floor cleaning machine 1.The cleaning element 9 can be locked in at least one position by the locking unit 29, so that the floor cleaning machine 1 can be moved while the cleaning element 9 remains away from the floor surface without a user having to keep the swivel arm 25 permanently swiveled.

[0042] The locking unit 29 has a locking lever 31 which pivots about a second pivot axis 33, as in the Figures 3a and 3bThe locking lever 31 is pivotably connected to the pivot arm 25, and the locking lever 31 has a locking projection 35 that is spaced apart from the second pivot axis 33 and extends away from the locking lever 31 in the direction of the second pivot axis 33. The locking lever 31 has the locking projection 35 and is pivotably connected to the pivot arm 25 about the second pivot axis 33, such that the locking projection 35 is pivotably arranged on the pivot arm 25 about the second pivot axis 33. The locking projection 35 is spaced apart from the second pivot axis 33, such that the distance of the locking projection 35 from the second pivot axis 33 determines the pivot radius of the locking projection 35.The locking projection 35 extends in the direction of the second pivot axis 33, whereby it is understood that the locking projection 35 extends from the locking lever 31 parallel to the second pivot axis 33, i.e., protrudes from the plane of the locking lever 31. In the present embodiment, the locking projection 35 has the form of a bolt. Alternatively, the locking projection 35 can be designed as a pin, stud, or hook. This allows for a particularly simple construction of the locking unit 29.

[0043] Furthermore, the locking unit 29 has a cam 37 which is connected to the frame 3. A cam 37 is understood to be a guide designed to engage with and guide the locking projection 35. Because the locking projection 35 is arranged on the pivotable locking lever 31, the cam 37 is able to deflect or guide the locking projection 35 in a controlled manner, causing it to pivot. The cam 37 can be integral with the frame 3 or designed as a separate component that is connected to the frame 3 via fasteners or other components.

[0044] In an alternative embodiment, the locking lever 31 is pivotably connected to the frame 3 about the second pivot axis 33 and the cam 37 is connected to the pivot arm 25, which also results in the pivot arm 25 being locked to the frame 3.

[0045] The floor cleaning machine 1 in Figure 1 Figure 1 shows the swivel arm 25 in a cleaning position in which the cleaning element assembly 7 engages with the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection 35 is released from the cam 37. The swivel arm 25 is positioned between the cleaning position and a locking position that is shown in Figure 2. Figure 2 It is shown to be swivelling.

[0046] Figure 2 shows a further schematic view of the embodiment of the floor cleaning machine 1 according to the invention. Figure 1 In Figure 2 The swivel arm 25 is shown in the locking position, in which the cleaning element assembly 7 is spaced away from the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection 35 engages with the cam 37. The locking unit 29 is subsequently described with reference to the Figures 3a and 3b explained in more detail.

[0047] Figures 3a and 3bshow schematic partial views of the exemplary embodiment of the floor cleaning machine 1 according to the invention. Figure 1 and 2 , where Figure 3a the swivel arm 25 in the cleaning position and Figure 3b The pivot arm 25 is shown in the locked position. The cam 37 has a first recess 39 in which the locking projection 35 can be received. The first recess 39 of the cam 37 is designed to receive the locking projection 35; that is, the dimensions of the first recess 39 are adapted to the dimensions of the locking projection 35 in order to receive the locking projection 35 in the first recess 39. This allows the cam 37 and the locking projection 35 to engage with each other, so that the locking projection 35 can be held firmly against the cam 37 and thus against the frame 3, thereby holding the pivot arm 25 in position.

[0048] The cleaning element 9 is pivotably arranged about a third pivot axis 41 at a first end 43 of the pivot arm 25. In the present embodiment, the third pivot axis 41 is parallel to the first pivot axis 27 and / or the second pivot axis 33. This ensures that the cleaning element 9 rests flat on the floor surface even when the floor cleaning machine 1 is guided over an inclined floor surface. It also reduces the risk of the cleaning element 9 becoming jammed on unevenness in the floor surface.

[0049] The pivot arm 25 has a second end 45 opposite the first end 43, on which an actuating element 47 is arranged. The actuating element 47 can be designed such that a user can actuate it with a foot. In the present embodiment, the actuating element 47 has a pedal. The actuating element 47 can be made of a material that has a higher coefficient of friction than the material of the pivot arm 25, thereby providing the actuating element 47 with greater grip or adhesion.

[0050] The first pivot axis 27 is arranged in a direction parallel to the floor surface between the first chassis axle 17 and the second chassis axle 19. This reduces the risk of the floor cleaning machine 1 tipping over when a force is applied to the first pivot axis 27.

[0051] As in the Figures 3a and 3bAs shown, the first pivot axis 27, the second pivot axis 33, and the third pivot axis 41 are arranged parallel to each other. This allows for parallel movement of the pivot arm 25, the locking projection 35, and the cleaning element 9. This has the advantage of enabling the simplest and most reliable locking and unlocking of the pivot arm 25.

[0052] The first pivot axis 27 is arranged between the locking unit 29 or the second pivot axis 33 and the cleaning element 9. As already mentioned, the pivot arm 25 can be pivoted between the cleaning position in which the cleaning element 9 engages with the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection 35 is released from the cam 37, and the locking position in which the cleaning element 9 is spaced away from the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection 35 engages with the first recess 39 of the cam 37, being held in the first recess 39 by gravity acting on the cleaning element 9. It is also conceivable that, additionally or alternatively, a spring force acts here, pressing the cleaning element assembly towards the floor surface.

[0053] The first pivot axis 27 is positioned between the locking unit 29 and the cleaning element 9 such that it acts as a pivot axis for the cleaning element assembly 7. The cleaning element 9 typically has a higher weight than the pivot arm 25 or the second end 45 of the pivot arm 25 opposite the cleaning element 9, so that the cleaning element 9 is pressed towards the floor surface by gravity alone, generating a torque about the first pivot axis 27. Because the first pivot axis 27 is arranged between the cleaning element 9 and the locking unit 29 or the second pivot axis 33, the torque acts in the opposite direction to the floor surface.When the locking projection 35 engages with the first recess 39, the cam 37 can absorb the torque acting on the locking projection 35 in a particularly simple way, so that the cleaning element 9 can be held in the locking position.

[0054] The operating principle of the locking unit 29 is described below with reference to the Figures 4a to 4c and 5a to 5c explained in more detail. Figures 4a to 4c schematic partial views of a locking unit 29 of the exemplary embodiment from the Figures 1 to 3b , whereby the Figures 4a to 4c The locking unit 29 is shown in various positions that the locking unit 29 can have when locked.

[0055] In Figure 4aThe locking unit 29 is shown in a position corresponding to the cleaning position of the swivel arm 25. In this position, the locking projection 35 is released from the cam 37 and positioned perpendicular to the base surface above the cam 37. This position of the locking lever 31 and the locking projection 35 is referred to as the neutral position. The neutral position is the position that the locking projection 35 or the locking lever 31 assumes when it is not in contact with the cam 37 and is not deflected by it. Therefore, the neutral position of the locking lever 31 and the locking projection 35 can be defined as the position in which the locking lever 31 is in equilibrium due to gravity and / or the force of a preloading element.This position is reached when the locking lever 31 and the locking projection 35 are brought into their most stable, possibly lowest, position within the swivel range by gravity and / or the force of a preloading element, while the floor cleaning machine 1 is standing on a horizontal surface. In this position, the locking projection 35 is possibly in the lowest position of its range of motion, which corresponds to an equilibrium position, free from any engagement by the cam 37. This has the advantage that the locking projection 35 can assume a defined position when it is not deflected by the cam 37.

[0056] In the neutral position, the locking lever 31 is preferably arranged vertically to the base surface, such that a line connecting the locking projection and the second pivot axis runs vertically. For this purpose, the locking projection 35 is arranged centrally, that is, centrally on a longitudinal axis of the locking lever 31. This has the advantage that the weight of the locking lever 31 and the locking projection 35 is distributed evenly around the second pivot axis 33. This makes it easier for the locking projection 35 to move into the neutral position under the influence of gravity, since no asymmetrical torque acts that would pull the locking lever 31 out of this position. In the neutral position, the weight forces of the locking lever 31 and the locking projection 35 preferably act along the same axis, which has a stabilizing effect. This supports a clear, stable, and defined neutral position.

[0057] The cam 37 is designed such that when the pivot arm 25 is pivoted towards the locking position, the locking projection 35 is pivoted from the neutral position into a first direction 49 by the cam 37 and, upon reaching a first turning point 51, pivots into a second direction 53 opposite to the first, so that the locking projection 35 engages with the first recess 39.

[0058] In Figure 4b The locking unit 29 is shown in a position between the cleaning position, as in Figure 4a shown, and the locking position, as shown in Figure 5aAs shown, the locking projection 35 and the locking lever 31 are pivoted along a first guide surface 55 of the cam 37 from the neutral position in the first direction 49, so that a restoring force acts on the locking lever 31 and the locking projection 35, which pushes the locking lever 31 and the locking projection 35 back into the neutral position, opposite to the first direction 49. This restoring force causes the locking projection 35 to pivot back towards the neutral position when it reaches the first turning point 51. The first turning point 51 is understood to be the point at which the locking projection 35 comes out of contact with the first guide surface 55, that is, at which the locking projection 35 is no longer pivoted by the cam 37, along the first guide surface 55, in the first direction 49.

[0059] The first reversal point 51 is reached when the locking projection 35 comes out of contact with the first guide surface 55 of the cam 37 and the locking projection 35 is located in a direction perpendicular to the base surface below the first guide surface 55. In the present embodiment, the first guide surface 55 is a flat surface. Alternatively, the first guide surface 55 can be a surface of varying or curved shape. The first guide surface 55 is understood to be the surface that is configured to pivot the locking projection 35 in the first direction 49. The first reversal point 51 lies in a direction perpendicular to the base surface below the first guide surface 55 and below the first recess 39. This has the advantage that, upon reaching the first reversal point 51, the locking projection 35 pivots back towards the neutral position due to gravity until it engages with the first recess 39.This ensures that the locking position can be assumed simply by pivoting the swivel arm 25 about the first pivot axis 27, without pivoting the swivel arm 25 laterally or requiring a separate locking element.

[0060] In Figure 4cThe locking unit 29 is shown in a position where the pivot arm 25 has been pivoted from the cleaning position to an end position. In this end position, the locking projection 35 rests against a first pivot limiting element 57. The first pivot limiting element 57 prevents the locking projection 35 from pivoting back to the neutral position when the pivot arm 25 is pivoted beyond the first reversal point 51. As already mentioned, in the embodiment described here, the locking projection 35 pivots back towards the neutral position due to the force of gravity acting upon it when the locking projection 35 is released from the cam 37. The first pivot limiting element 57 is arranged in one direction perpendicular to the floor surface below the first reversal point 51 and in the first direction 49 in front of the first recess 39.This creates a clearance 59 between the cam 37 and the first pivot limiting element 57, along which the locking projection 35 can pivot into the first recess 39. The first pivot limiting element 57 is arranged and designed such that it comes into contact with the locking projection 35. The first pivot limiting element 57 further prevents the locking projection 35 from pivoting back to the neutral position when the pivot arm 25 is pivoted beyond the first pivot point 51. Thus, the locking projection 35 can only pivot back to the neutral position once it has passed the first pivot limiting element 57 in the direction of the first recess 39, by pivoting the locking projection 35 between the first pivot point 51 and the first pivot limiting element 57 in the direction of the first recess 39.This achieves a stepwise pivoting of the locking projection 35, so that the locking projection 35 cannot be pivoted past the first recess 39 when the pivot arm 25 is pivoted beyond the first turning point 51.

[0061] The swivel arm 25 has a stop element 61 which, in the end position of the swivel arm 25, is in contact with the frame 3. The stop element 61 enables a precise definition of the end position of the swivel arm 25. In the present embodiment, the stop element 61 is designed as a projection on the swivel arm 25. Alternatively, the stop element 61 can have a damping element. The stop element 61 minimizes damage to the swivel arm 25 or the frame 3.

[0062] The Figures 5a to 5c further schematic partial views of the locking unit 29 of the exemplary embodiment from the Figures 1 to 3b , whereby the Figures 5a to 5cThe locking unit 29 is shown in different positions. Figure 5aThe locking unit 29 is shown in the locked position. In the locked position, the locking projection 35 has passed the first reversal point 51, so that it has pivoted in the second direction 53 and engages with the first recess 39, being held in the first recess 39 by a force of gravity acting on the cleaning element 9. The cam 37 is arranged such that the first recess 39 is offset in the first direction 49 relative to the neutral position of the locking projection 35, so that when the locking projection 35 engages with the first recess 39, it is at least partially pivoted in the first direction 49. This has the advantage that the restoring force, which pushes the locking projection 35 back into the neutral position, presses the locking projection 35 against the first recess 39.This allows for a particularly simple and secure engagement of the locking projection 35 with the first recess 39. The following refers to the... Figures 5b and 5c The unlocking of the locking projection 35 is described.

[0063] In Figure 5bThe locking unit 29 is shown in the position it assumes when the locking projection 35 is moved from the locking position to the cleaning position. The cam 37 is designed such that the locking projection 35 pivots in the second direction 53 when the pivot arm 25 is pivoted beyond the locking position to a second reversal point 63. Analogous to the first reversal point 51, the second reversal point 63 is the point at which the locking projection 35 comes out of contact with the first recess 39 or a second guide surface 65 adjacent to the first recess 39; that is, the locking projection 35 is no longer pivoted by the cam 37, along the second guide surface 65, in the first direction 49. The second reversal point 63 is reached when the locking projection 35 comes out of contact with the second guide surface 65 of the cam 37.In the present embodiment, the second guide surface 65 is a flat surface. Alternatively, the second guide surface 65 can be a curved surface. The second guide surface 65 is understood to be the surface adjacent to the first recess 39 and configured to pivot the locking projection 35 in the first direction 49 or to hold it in the pivoted position. The second reversal point 63 lies in a direction perpendicular to the base surface below the second guide surface 65 and below the first recess 39. Furthermore, the second reversal point 63 lies in a direction perpendicular to the base surface below the first reversal point 51. This has the advantage that, upon reaching the second reversal point 63, the locking projection 35 pivots back towards the neutral position due to gravity.This ensures that the locking projection 35 can be released from the first recess 39 simply by pivoting the swivel arm 25 about the first pivot axis 27, without the swivel arm 25 being pivoted laterally or a separate locking element being required.

[0064] When the swivel arm 25 is in its end position, the locking projection 35 is in its lowest position below the second pivot point 63. Since the locking projection 35 has been released from the cam 37 in this position, it can pivot into the neutral position. This allows the locking projection 35 to be moved out of the first recess 39 and released from the cam 37, thus enabling the swivel arm 25 to pivot into the cleaning position.

[0065] The locking unit 29 has a second pivot limiting element 67 that prevents the locking projection 35 from pivoting in the second direction 53 beyond the neutral position when the pivot arm 25 is pivoted beyond the second reversal point 63. The second pivot limiting element 67 is arranged and designed such that it comes into contact with the locking projection 35. The second pivot limiting element 67 is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the base surface below the second reversal point 63 and in the first direction 49 behind the first recess 39. The second pivot limiting element 67 serves to prevent the locking projection 35 from pivoting beyond the neutral position in the second direction 53 after passing the second reversal point 63, which could cause the locking projection 35 to oscillate around the neutral position.Accordingly, the second pivot limiting element 67 minimizes the pivoting of the locking projection 35 around the neutral position, so that the locking projection 35 pivots into the neutral position and remains there. This allows the pivot arm 25 to be moved directly from the locking position to the cleaning position without the user having to wait for the locking projection 35 to reach the neutral position. (From the in .) Figure 5b The locking unit 29 can be moved into the cleaning position shown below. This will be demonstrated below. Figure 5c described.

[0066] In Figure 5cThe locking unit 29 is shown in the position it assumes when the locking projection 35 is moved from the locking position to the cleaning position. When the pivot arm 25 is pivoted from the second reversal point 63 towards the cleaning position, the locking projection 35 is pivoted by the cam 37 from the neutral position in the second direction 53, and when the locking projection 35 is released from the cam 37, it pivots back to the neutral position. The locking projection 35 is pivoted along a third guide surface 69 of the cam 37 from the neutral position in the second direction 53, so that a restoring force in the first direction 49 acts on the locking lever 35 and the locking projection 35, which pushes the locking lever 31 and the locking projection 35 back to the neutral position.This restoring force causes the locking projection 35 to pivot back into the neutral position when it is released from the cam 37. This has the advantage that the locking projection 35 automatically pivots back into the neutral position, so that the locking projection 35 can always engage with and release itself from the cam 37 automatically.

[0067] The cam 37 is designed such that the locking projection 35 pivots back from the second direction 53 to the neutral position when the pivot arm 25 is pivoted towards the cleaning position beyond a third reversal point 71. Analogous to the first reversal point 51, the third reversal point 71 is the point at which the locking projection 35 comes out of contact with the third guide surface 69, meaning that the locking projection 35 is no longer pivoted by the cam 37, along the third guide surface 69, in the second direction 53. The third reversal point 71 is reached when the locking projection 35 comes out of contact with the third guide surface 69 of the cam 37. In the present embodiment, the third guide surface 69 is a flat surface. Alternatively, the third guide surface 69 can be a curved surface.The third guide surface 69 is defined as the surface extending from the second pivot point 63 to the third pivot point 71, designed to pivot the locking projection 35 in the second direction 53. The third pivot point 71 lies perpendicular to the base surface above the third guide surface 69. This has the advantage that, upon reaching the third pivot point 71, the locking projection 35 pivots back towards the neutral position due to gravity. This allows the locking projection 35 to be pivoted back to the neutral position simply by pivoting the swivel arm 25 about the first pivot axis 27 into the cleaning position, without requiring the swivel arm 25 to pivot laterally or a separate locking element.

[0068] In the present embodiment, the third pivot point 71 forms the highest point of the cam 37 relative to the base surface, so that when the locking projection 35 passes the third pivot point 71, it is released from the cam 37 and pivots back into the neutral position. Once the locking projection 35 has pivoted beyond the third pivot point 71, it can be pivoted back into the locking position by pivoting the pivot arm 25 again. This allows the pivot arm 25 to be locked and unlocked in a particularly simple manner by simply pivoting it about the first pivot axis 27 in one direction.

[0069] In particular, the present invention makes it possible to lock the swivel arm 25 by pivoting it towards the floor surface and to unlock it by pivoting it in the same direction. This results in particularly simple handling of the floor cleaning machine 1, since a user only ever needs to pivot the swivel arm 25 in one direction to lock and unlock it.

[0070] In summary, it can be stated that the floor cleaning machine 1 provides a locking and unlocking function with which the cleaning element arrangement 7 can be held in a position spaced away from the floor surface and released from this position in a particularly simple and safe manner. Reference symbol list:

[0071] 1 Floor cleaning machine 3 Frame 5 Chassis 7 Cleaning element assembly 9 Cleaning element 11 Drive unit 13 Housing 15 Handle 17 First chassis axle 19 Second chassis axle 21 First roller unit 23 Second roller unit 25 Swivel arm 27 First swivel axis 29 Locking unit 31 Locking lever 33 Second swivel axis 35 Locking projection 37 Cam 39 First recess 41 Third swivel axis 43 First end 45 Second end 47 Actuating element 49 First direction 51 First reversal point 53 Second direction 55 First guide surface 57 First swivel limiting element 59 Clearance 61 Stop element 63 Second reversal point 65 Second guide surface 67 Second swivel limiting element 69 Third guide surface 71 Third reversal point

Claims

1. Floor cleaning machine (1) comprising a frame (3), a chassis (5) arranged on the frame (3) for moving the floor cleaning machine (1) over a floor surface to be cleaned, a cleaning element arrangement (7) with at least one, preferably driven, cleaning element (9), wherein the cleaning element (9) is designed to engage with the floor surface to be cleaned, a pivot arm (25) which is connected to the cleaning element arrangement (7) and pivotably mounted on the frame (3) about a first pivot axis (27), a locking unit (29) for locking the pivot arm (25) to the frame (3) in at least one pivot direction, wherein the locking unit (29) comprises a locking lever (31) which is pivotably connected about a second pivot axis (33) to a joint between the pivot arm (25) and the frame (3), wherein the locking lever (31) has a locking projection (35),the second pivot axis (33) is spaced apart from the second pivot axis (33) and extends away from the locking lever (31) in the direction of the second pivot axis (33), and a cam (37) which is connected to the other from the pivot arm (25) and the frame (3), wherein the cam (37) has a first recess (39) in which the locking projection (35) can be received, wherein the first pivot axis (27) is arranged between the second pivot axis (33) and the cleaning element assembly (7), wherein the pivot arm (25) can be pivoted between a cleaning position in which the cleaning element assembly (7) engages with the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection (35) is released from the cam (37), and a locking position in which the cleaning element assembly (7) is spaced apart from the floor surface to be cleaned and in which the locking projection (35) engages with the first recess (39) of the cam (37). interveneswherein it is held in the first recess (39) by a force acting on the cleaning element arrangement (7), wherein the cam (37) is designed such that the locking projection (35) is pivoted from a neutral position in a first direction (49) by the cam (37) when the pivot arm (25) is pivoted towards the locking position, and is pivoted in a second direction (53) opposite to the first when a first turning point (51) is reached, so that the locking projection (35) engages with the first recess (39), and that the locking projection (35) is pivoted in the second direction (53) when the pivot arm (25) is pivoted beyond the locking position to a second turning point (63),and that when the swivel arm (25) is pivoted from the second turning point (63) towards the cleaning position, the locking projection (35) is pivoted by the cam (37) in the second direction (53).

2. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the locking lever (31) is arranged vertically in the neutral position, such that preferably a connecting line between the locking projection (35) and the second pivot axis (33) runs vertically, wherein the neutral position is the position that the locking lever (31) assumes due to a force, preferably gravity.

3. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the cam (37) is arranged such that the first recess (39) is offset in the first direction (49) relative to the neutral position of the locking projection (35), so that when the locking projection (35) engages with the first recess (39), it is pivoted in the first direction (49) relative to the neutral position.

4. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cam (37) has a first pivot limiting element (57) which prevents the locking projection (35) from pivoting back into the neutral position when the pivot arm (25) is pivoted beyond the first reversal point (51).

5. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cam (37) has a second pivot limiting element (67) which prevents the locking projection (35) from pivoting in the second direction (53) beyond the neutral position when the pivot arm (25) is pivoted beyond the second reversal point (63).

6. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cam (37) is designed such that the locking projection (35) pivots back in the first direction (49) towards the neutral position when the pivot arm (25) is pivoted in the direction of the cleaning position beyond a third reversal point (71).

7. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to claim 6, wherein the third reversal point (71) forms the highest point of the cam (37) relative to the floor surface, so that when the locking projection (35) passes the third reversal point (71), it is released from the cam (37) and pivots back into the neutral position.

8. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning element arrangement (7) is pivotably arranged about a third pivot axis (41) at a first end (43) of the pivot arm (25).

9. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to claim 8, wherein the swivel arm (25) has a second end (45) opposite the first end (43), at which an actuating element (47) is arranged.

10. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pivot arm (25) can be pivoted beyond the locking position to an end position in which the pivot arm (25) is in contact with the frame (3) and the locking projection (35) is preferably in the neutral position.

11. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to claim 10, wherein the swivel arm (25) has a stop element (61) which is in contact with the frame (3) in the end position of the swivel arm (25).

12. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chassis (5) has a first chassis axle (17) and a second chassis axle (19), wherein at least one roller unit (21, 23) is rotatable about each of the chassis axles (17, 19) with which the chassis (5) can roll over the floor surface to be cleaned, wherein the first pivot axis (27) is arranged in a direction parallel to the floor surface between the first chassis axle (17) and the second chassis axle (19).

13. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first pivot axis (27) and the second pivot axis (33) are arranged parallel to each other.

14. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to claim 13, wherein the third pivot axis (41) is arranged parallel to the first pivot axis (27) and to the second pivot axis (33).

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