Floor cleaning machine with dockable suction foot

Abstract

A floor cleaning machine (1) is shown and described, comprising a frame (3), a suction foot (25) that can be coupled to the frame (3), the suction foot (25) being able to be connected to the frame (3) via a coupling unit (37), the coupling unit (37) comprising: a coupling element (39) arranged on one side of the suction foot (25) and the frame (3), a holder (41) attached to the other side of the suction foot (25) and the frame (3) with a recess (43, 43') for receiving the coupling element (39), and a coupling latch (47) pivotably arranged on the holder (41) about a first pivot axis (45), which can be switched between a closed state in which the coupling latch (47) is pivoted about the first pivot axis (45) so that it closes the recess (43, 43') in such a way that the coupling element (39) cannot be pulled out. from the recess (43, 43') is prevented, and can be pivoted to an open state in which the recess (43, 43') is released,and a lever (49) connected to the coupling latch (47) by which the coupling latch (47) can be pivoted into the open position, wherein the coupling latch (47) has an inclined surface (55) at its distal end (51) which is designed such that the coupling latch (47) is pivoted from the closed position to the open position when the coupling element (39) rests against the inclined surface (55) and is moved in the direction of the recess (43, 43').

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a floor cleaning machine with a connectable suction foot.

[0002] Floor cleaning machines with a suction foot, which can be moved across a floor surface to be cleaned, are known from the prior art. These machines include a cleaning unit with one or more driven brush elements designed to engage the floor surface and loosen dirt. Furthermore, an application device is provided to deliver cleaning fluid to the brush elements, thus improving the removal of dirt. The dirt loosened from the floor surface can be suctioned up by a suction foot attached to the floor cleaning machine by means of a vacuum and conveyed into a dirty water container. To maximize the amount of dirty water the suction foot can collect, it is wider than the floor cleaning machine itself.

[0003] The suction foot of most floor cleaning machines can typically be connected and disconnected via a coupling mechanism. Disconnecting the suction foot is particularly necessary when transporting the floor cleaning machine or maneuvering it through confined spaces, such as doorways or narrow passages. Especially during transport, it's crucial to ensure the machine can pass through these narrow spaces without risking damage to the suction foot. Furthermore, disconnecting the suction foot is essential for maintenance purposes, such as when replacing or cleaning the suction foot or parts thereof.

[0004] With these types of floor cleaning machines, reliably and easily connecting and disconnecting the suction foot has proven problematic. Known coupling mechanisms connect the suction foot to the machine via pins, screws, or levers, requiring the user to hold these pins, screws, or levers in place when attaching the suction foot. Furthermore, these coupling mechanisms require the user to bend down to connect the suction foot, as their complexity necessitates several steps. This results in a significant time investment for connecting the suction foot to the floor cleaning machine.

[0005] Based on the prior art, the object of the present invention is therefore to provide a floor cleaning machine of the type mentioned at the outset in which the suction foot can be coupled to and detached from the floor cleaning machine in a particularly simple and time-efficient manner.

[0006] 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 arrangement with at least one, preferably driven, cleaning element. The cleaning element is designed to engage with the floor surface to be cleaned. The floor cleaning machine has a suction foot that can be coupled to the frame, the suction foot being connected to the frame via a coupling unit. The coupling unit has a coupling element arranged on one side of the suction foot and the frame, and a holder attached to the other side of the suction foot and the frame, with a recess having an open end for receiving the coupling element.The coupling unit has a coupling latch pivotally mounted on the holder about a first pivot axis. This latch can pivot between a closed state, in which it is pivoted about the first pivot axis to close the recess and prevent the coupling element from being pulled out, and an open state, in which it is pivoted about the first pivot axis to release the recess and allow the coupling element to be moved out. The coupling unit has a lever connected to the coupling latch, which can be used to pivot the latch into the open state.The coupling latch has at its distal end, away from the first pivot axis, a first inclined surface pointing away from the recess, which is designed such that the coupling latch is pivoted from the closed position to the open position when the coupling element rests against the inclined surface and is moved in the direction of the recess.

[0007] The floor cleaning machine comprises a cleaning element arrangement with at least one, preferably driven, cleaning element. 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 suction foot that can be coupled to the frame, with the suction foot being connected to the frame via a coupling unit. The term "frame" refers to the stationary part of the floor cleaning machine that is connected to the chassis. The frame can be made of steel or aluminum, or of a composite material. Additional components, in particular a housing, covers, cross and longitudinal braces, and electronic components, can be attached to the frame.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the suction foot has a base from which a front and a rear sealing lip extend downwards, running essentially parallel to each other and, during suction operation when the suction foot is moved over the floor surface to be cleaned, essentially perpendicular to them, so that a suction chamber is formed between the sealing lips and below the base. The base has a connection through which the suction chamber can be connected to the machine's vacuumed dirty water tank, so that dirty water present on the floor surface to be cleaned can be suctioned out.

[0010] The coupling unit comprises a coupling element arranged on one side of the suction base and the frame, and a holder attached to the other side of the suction base and the frame. The holder has a recess with an open end for receiving the coupling element. The coupling element and the holder can each be integral with the suction base or the frame, or they can be separate components connected to the suction base or the frame by fasteners. Preferably, the coupling element and the holder are made of the same material as the frame of the floor cleaning machine. The open-end recess is dimensioned to accommodate the coupling element. The coupling element and the recess can have an arcuate or circular cross-section to allow the coupling element to be fully accommodated within the recess.This geometry ensures an even distribution of the load, thus increasing the mechanical stability of the coupling unit. The full-surface engagement of the coupling element within the recess allows for a secure and stable connection, enabling even load distribution and reduced wear on both the coupling element and the recess. This extends the service life of the coupling unit.

[0011] The coupling unit has a coupling latch pivotally mounted on the holder about a first pivot axis. This latch pivots between a closed state, in which it closes the recess and prevents the coupling element from being pulled out, and an open state, in which it releases the recess and allows the coupling element to be moved out. A coupling latch is a mechanical locking element that, by pivoting about the first pivot axis, either locks the coupling element in the recess or releases it. The coupling latch can be made of the same material as the holder of the coupling unit.Alternatively, the coupling latch can be made from a less robust and lighter material, which can lead to easier pivoting of the coupling latch around the first pivot axis.

[0012] The first pivot axis is preferably arranged parallel to the floor surface and perpendicular to a forward direction in which the floor cleaning machine can be guided across the floor surface. This arrangement of the first pivot axis enables a smooth and linear pivoting of the coupling latch in the forward direction.

[0013] In the closed position, the coupling latch prevents the coupling element from being pulled out of the recess by completely sealing the opening. Therefore, the suction foot can be securely coupled to the floor cleaning machine when the coupling element is inserted into the recess and the coupling latch is closed. In the open position, the coupling latch pivots out of the way, allowing the coupling element to be removed. Consequently, the suction foot can be disconnected from the floor cleaning machine when the coupling latch is open and the coupling element can be removed. This coupling mechanism offers the advantage of reliably securing the coupling element within the recess to prevent accidental disconnection.In addition, the swiveling mechanism of the coupling trap allows for quick and easy opening and closing, which contributes to the ease of use of the coupling mechanism when coupling and uncoupling the suction foot with the floor cleaning machine.

[0014] The coupling unit features a lever connected to the coupling latch, which allows the latch to be pivoted into the open position. The lever can be integrally formed with the coupling latch or designed as a separate component connected to the coupling latch via fasteners. The lever can be made of the same material as the coupling latch. Alternatively, at least sections of the lever can be made of a material that offers enhanced grip and ease of use. The lever allows the coupling latch to pivot around the first pivot axis between the closed and open positions. The lever can be designed for easy access and operation by the user. To this end, the lever can have protrusions or indentations to improve ease of use.

[0015] The coupling latch has a first inclined surface at its distal end, away from the first pivot axis, which points away from the recess. This surface is designed such that the coupling latch pivots from the closed position to the open position when the coupling element rests against the inclined surface and is moved towards the recess. The distal end is the end opposite the first pivot axis, which closes the recess in the closed position. The surface at the distal end, pointing away from the recess, is inclined. This means that the inclined surface is at an angle, preferably less than 90°, to the direction of movement of the coupling element when the coupling element is inserted into the recess.By placing the coupling element against the inclined surface and moving it towards the recess, a force or torque can be generated that forces the coupling latch into the open position. This force causes the coupling latch to pivot into the open position, thus releasing the recess and allowing the coupling element to be inserted. This coupling mechanism ensures efficient and safe handling of the coupling unit, as the inclined surface allows the recess to open automatically under load by pivoting the coupling latch.

[0016] In summary, it can be stated that a floor cleaning machine is provided in which the suction foot can be coupled to and detached from the floor cleaning machine in a particularly simple and time-efficient manner.

[0017] In one embodiment, the lever extends away from the clutch latch in a direction away from its distal end. The lever extends so far away from the clutch latch in this direction that the first pivot axis lies between the lever and the distal end of the clutch latch. This allows the first pivot axis to serve as a fulcrum, enabling the lever to generate a torque that pivots the clutch latch from the closed to the open position. The length of the lever can be dimensioned to generate a sufficiently large torque around the first pivot axis, allowing the clutch latch to be pivoted particularly easily and with minimal effort. This results in exceptional ease of use, as the clutch latch can be pivoted with minimal effort.

[0018] In one embodiment, the holder has two arms, preferably parallel and spaced apart from each other, wherein the recess is formed by two slots extending, preferably parallel, within the arms and open at one end, wherein the coupling latch is arranged between the arms, and wherein the coupling element is designed as a bolt configured to be received in both slots and to extend between them. This arrangement enables precise and secure guidance of the coupling element, since the slots are precisely matched to the dimensions of the bolt. Alternatively, the bolt can be made in multiple parts, for example, by two partial bolts, each partial bolt being received in a slot of one arm.The two arms ensure that the coupling element is held at at least two points, resulting in a stable hold for the suction cup and reducing the risk of it tilting. Inserting the bolt into the slots secures it firmly and stably, minimizing the risk of slippage or falling out during operation. The parallel alignment of the slots allows for an even distribution of forces and a particularly simple design, leading to increased overall stability of the coupling unit. This enables a robust and durable connection of the suction cup, which is especially advantageous for applications subject to high mechanical stress on the suction cup.

[0019] In one embodiment, the slots forming the recesses extend along a first longitudinal axis, which is perpendicular to the base surface and with the open ends of the slots pointing towards the base surface. The slots can therefore be arranged vertically to the base surface. This vertical arrangement can facilitate the coupling and uncoupling of the suction cup. For the coupling process, the suction cup can be positioned below the holder and then inserted upwards into the slots, with the coupling element being held in place by the coupling latch. During uncoupling, the coupling element can be pivoted into the open position and, under the influence of gravity, slide automatically out of the recess. This arrangement offers increased user-friendliness by utilizing gravity.Secondly, this can save time and reduce the likelihood of errors when decoupling the suction cup.

[0020] In one embodiment, the slots forming the recesses extend along a longitudinal axis, the longitudinal axis being arranged at an angle to the base surface. This angle is in the range of 90° to 0°, preferably in the range of 80° to 10°, and more preferably in the range of 70° to 20°. This angle facilitates easy decoupling, as the coupling element can automatically slide out of the recess under the influence of gravity when the coupling latch releases it. The angle also facilitates easy coupling, as the recesses are more easily accessible to the user due to their orientation.

[0021] Preferably, the angle of the first longitudinal axis is 90° to the floor surface. This allows the suction cup to be coupled and uncoupled in a direction parallel to the floor surface. This has the advantage that the recesses are more easily accessible for a user, thus simplifying at least the coupling of the suction cup.

[0022] In one embodiment, the bolt is attached to a first and a second support arm and extends between them. The support arms have guide ramps designed to center the suction foot relative to the arms when the bolt is positioned opposite the open ends of the slots. These guide ramps can be understood as inclined or inclined guide surfaces that contact the arms of the holder and guide the support arms along them in such a way that the suction foot centers itself relative to the arms. The guide ramps can also be understood as converging surfaces inclined towards each other. This arrangement achieves centering of the suction foot relative to the arms, allowing the suction foot to be coupled to the floor cleaning machine even if the coupling element is not perfectly centered between the arms.This allows for particularly simple pairing with increased ease of use.

[0023] In one embodiment, the holder extends from a first end to a second end, with the holder pivotably connected to the frame at the first end about a second pivot axis, and the coupling latch being located at the second end. Because the holder is pivotably mounted on the frame, the user does not need to lift the suction cup to couple it. Instead, the user can position the suction cup below the holder so that the coupling element is guided into the recess by pivoting the holder about the second pivot axis. This allows for particularly easy coupling of the suction cup with reduced effort.

[0024] Preferably, the second pivot axis is arranged parallel to the first pivot axis. This allows for parallel and synchronous movement of the holder and the coupling latch. This has the advantage of enabling the simplest and most reliable coupling and uncoupling of the suction foot with the floor cleaning machine.

[0025] In one embodiment, the holder has an actuating element arranged at its second end. The actuating element can be designed such that a user can operate it with their foot. For example, the actuating element can have a pedal. The actuating element can be made of a material with a higher coefficient of friction than the material of the holder, thus providing the actuating element with greater grip or adhesion.

[0026] In one embodiment, the recess widens towards the open end. Widening of the recess means that the recess tapers from its open end to an end opposite the open end. Thus, the cross-section of the recess widens in the direction of the open end. The recess is preferably conical or funnel-shaped. This allows for particularly easy insertion of the coupling element into the recess, as the coupling element can be threaded into the recess due to the widened open end.

[0027] In one embodiment, the holder has a stop designed to limit the relative movement of the suction foot towards the front end of the floor cleaning machine such that when a section of the suction foot rests against the stop, the coupling element is aligned with the open end of the recess. The stop serves to define a coupling position for the suction foot when it is detached from the floor cleaning machine. The suction foot can be placed on the floor surface and moved across it until the section of the suction foot rests against the stop. When the section of the suction foot rests against the stop, the holder can be pivoted about its second pivot axis towards the floor surface to couple the suction foot. Alternatively, the suction foot can be lifted until the coupling element is held in the recess by the coupling catch.This results in a particularly simple and user-friendly coupling of the suction foot with the floor cleaning machine.

[0028] In one embodiment, the coupling unit has a preload element that biases the coupling latch towards the closed position. The preload element can include a spring element that exerts a spring force on the coupling latch in the direction of the closed position. By biasing the coupling latch towards the closed position, the latch is held in the closed position when it is not pivoted by the coupling element or the lever. Furthermore, this bias element causes the coupling latch to pivot into the closed position automatically. This results in automatic closing when the suction cup is coupled, thus increasing ease of use. Alternatively, the coupling latch can be pressed into the closed position by gravity.

[0029] In one embodiment, the coupling unit has a first contact surface and the suction foot a second contact surface, the contact surfaces being designed to abut each other when the coupling element is received in the recess, so that the suction foot is aligned horizontally, essentially parallel to the floor surface to be cleaned. The contact surfaces are preferably corresponding to each other, allowing them to be in full contact. The contact surfaces ensure that the suction foot remains in a position parallel to the floor surface, even when the holder is pivoted about the second pivot axis in such a way that the suction foot is moved into a position where it is spaced away from the floor surface. Thus, the contact surfaces are intended to prevent the suction foot from tilting about an axis parallel to the floor surface when the suction foot is in a raised position.This ensures that the suction foot does not drag on the floor surface when the floor cleaning machine is moved across the floor surface and the suction foot has been raised, thus preventing damage to the suction foot.

[0030] The present invention will now be explained with reference to a drawing showing only one preferred embodiment, in which Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a first embodiment of a floor cleaning machine according to the invention, Figure 2 shows a schematic partial view of the floor cleaning machine with a decoupled suction foot, Figure 3 shows another schematic partial view of the floor cleaning machine with a decoupled suction foot, Figure 4 shows a schematic partial view of the floor cleaning machine with a coupled suction foot in the lowered position, Figure 5 shows a schematic partial view of the floor cleaning machine with a coupled suction foot in the raised position, Figure 6 shows a schematic partial view of the coupling unit of the first embodiment from the Figures 1 to 5 Figure 7 shows a schematic partial view of a second embodiment of the coupling unit and Figure 8 shows a schematic partial view of a third embodiment of the coupling unit.

[0031] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a first 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 7 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.

[0032] Furthermore, the floor cleaning machine 1 has a cleaning element arrangement 9 with a cleaning element 11, wherein the cleaning element 11 is designed to engage with the floor surface 7 to be cleaned. For example, the cleaning element 11 can be a brush, in which case the engagement elements are bristles whose free ends engage with the floor surface 7 to be cleaned. However, it is equally conceivable that the cleaning element 11 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 7 to be cleaned.

[0033] The floor cleaning machine 1 has a housing 13 for enclosing the floor cleaning machine 1. The housing 13 can accommodate a fresh water tank for receiving fresh water and a dirty water tank for receiving dirty water.

[0034] The floor cleaning machine 1 has a guide handle assembly 15, which is located at the rear of the machine when viewed in the forward direction. The guide handle assembly 15 serves as a support, allowing the user to hold, control, and steer the floor cleaning machine 1. Positioning the guide handle assembly 15 at the rear contributes to more precise steering with less effort. The guide handle assembly 15 can be ergonomically shaped, resulting in improved comfort and reduced physical strain during operation, which is particularly advantageous during extended use of the floor cleaning machine 1.

[0035] The chassis 5 has a first chassis axle 17 and a second chassis axle 19, with a first roller 21 spaced apart from each other mounted on the first chassis axle 17 and a second roller unit 23 arranged on the second chassis axle 19. The first roller 21 and the second roller unit 23 are configured to roll over the floor surface 7 to be cleaned.

[0036] The floor cleaning machine 1 has a suction foot 25. In the present embodiment, the suction foot 25 has, as shown in Figure 3The figure shows a first wheel 27, a second wheel 29, a third wheel 31, and a fourth wheel 33, designed to roll over the floor surface 7 to be cleaned, and whose contact points with the floor surface 7 define a wheel plane 35. The first and second wheels 27, 29 can also be referred to as front wheels, which are arranged at a front end of the suction foot 25. The third and fourth wheels 31, 33 can also be referred to as rear wheels, which are arranged at a rear end of the suction foot 25. The wheel plane 35 runs parallel to the floor surface to be cleaned, so that a predefined and uniform distance between the suction foot 25 and the floor surface 7 to be cleaned and a uniform cleaning result can be achieved.

[0037] In an alternative embodiment, the suction foot 25 has three wheels designed to roll over the floor surface 7 to be cleaned, with a first and second wheel forming the front wheels and a third wheel forming the rear wheel.

[0038] The floor cleaning machine 1 is designed to be moved forward over the floor surface 7 to be cleaned during cleaning operation, with the suction foot 25 being arranged at a rear end of the floor cleaning machine 1 when viewed in the forward direction. The suction foot 25 is designed to be guided over the floor surface 7 to be cleaned and to collect cleaning fluid from the floor surface 7.

[0039] The suction foot 25 can be coupled to the frame 3 of the floor cleaning machine 1. The coupling of the suction foot 25 to the floor cleaning machine 1 is described below. Figure 2 described.

[0040] Figure 2Figure 1 shows a schematic partial view of the floor cleaning machine 1 with a decoupled suction foot 25. The suction foot 25 can be connected to the frame 3 via a coupling unit 37. The coupling unit 37 has a coupling element 39 arranged on the suction foot 25 and a holder 41 attached to the frame 3, the holder having a recess 43, 43' with an open end for receiving the coupling element 39. The coupling element 39 is connected to the suction foot 25, and the holder 41 is connected to the frame 3. The coupling element 39 and the holder 41 can be integrally formed with the frame 3 and the suction foot 25, or they can be separate components connected to the suction foot 25 or the frame 3 via fasteners.

[0041] The open-ended recess 43, 43' is dimensioned to accommodate the coupling element 39. Both the coupling element 39 and the recess 43, 43' have an arcuate or circular arc-shaped cross-section, allowing the coupling element 39 to be received and bear against the recess 43, 43' over a large area. This geometry ensures an even distribution of the load, thus increasing the mechanical stability of the coupling unit 37. The large-area reception of the coupling element 39 in the recess 43, 43' enables a secure and stable connection, resulting in even load distribution and reduced wear on both the coupling element 39 and the recess 43, 43'. This extends the service life of the coupling unit 37.

[0042] The recess 43, 43' widens towards its open end. This widening of the recess 43, 43' means that it tapers from its open end to an end opposite the open end. Thus, the cross-section of the recess 43, 43' widens towards the open end. The recess 43, 43' is conical or funnel-shaped. This allows for particularly easy insertion of the coupling element 39 into the recess 43, 43', as the coupling element 39 can be threaded into the recess 43, 43' due to the widened open end.

[0043] The coupling unit 37 has a coupling latch 47 pivotably arranged on the holder 41 about a first pivot axis 45, which is pivotable between a closed state, in which the coupling latch 47 is pivoted about the first pivot axis 45 in such a way that it closes the recess 43, 43' in such a way that the coupling element 39 cannot be pulled out of the recess 43, 43', and an open state, in which the coupling latch 47 is pivoted about the first pivot axis 45 in such a way that the recess 43, 43' is released and the coupling element 39 can be moved out of the recess 43, 43'.

[0044] A coupling latch 47 is a mechanical locking element that, by pivoting about the first pivot axis 45, either locks the coupling element 39 in the recess 43, 43' or releases it from the recess 43, 43'. The coupling latch 47 can be made of the same material as the holder 41 of the coupling unit 37. Alternatively, the coupling latch 47 can be made of a less robust and lighter material, which may result in easier pivoting of the coupling latch 47 about the first pivot axis 45.

[0045] The first pivot axis 45 is arranged parallel to the floor surface 7 and perpendicular to a forward direction in which the floor cleaning machine 1 can be guided over the floor surface 7.

[0046] The coupling unit 37 has a lever 49 connected to the coupling latch 47, which allows the coupling latch 47 to be pivoted into the open position. The lever 49 can be integrally formed with the coupling latch 47 or designed as a separate component connected to the coupling latch 47 via fasteners. The lever 49 can be made of the same material as the coupling latch 47. Alternatively, the lever 49 can be made, at least partially, of or coated with a material that offers increased grip and ease of use. The lever 49 allows the coupling latch 47 to be pivoted about the first pivot axis 45 between the closed and open positions. The lever 49 is dimensioned to be easily accessible and operable by a user.

[0047] The lever 49 extends from the clutch latch 47 in a direction away from a distal end 51 of the clutch latch 47. The lever 49 extends from the clutch latch 47 in this direction away from the distal end 51 such that the first pivot axis 45 lies between the lever 49 and the distal end 51 of the clutch latch 47. This allows the first pivot axis 45 to serve as a pivot point, and the lever 49 can generate a torque with which the clutch latch 47 can be pivoted from the closed to the open position. The length of the lever 49 can be dimensioned such that a sufficiently large torque is generated around the first pivot axis 45, allowing the clutch latch 47 to be pivoted particularly easily and with minimal effort.

[0048] The coupling unit 37 has a preload element 53 that preloads the coupling latch 47 towards the closed position. The preload element 53 can include a spring element that exerts a spring force on the coupling latch 47 in the direction of the closed position. Preloading the coupling latch 47 towards the closed position ensures that the coupling latch 47 is held in the closed position when it is not pivoted by the coupling element 39 or the lever 49. Furthermore, this preload element 53 causes the coupling latch 47 to pivot into the closed position automatically. This results in automatic closing when the suction cup 25 is coupled, thus increasing ease of use.

[0049] The distal end 51 is the end of the coupling latch 47 furthest from the first pivot axis 45 (see Fig. 4), which closes the recess 43, 43' in the closed state. The surface at the distal end 51, which points away from the recess 43, 43', is an inclined surface 55. This means that the inclined surface 55 is at an angle of less than 90° to the direction of movement of the coupling element 39 when the coupling element 39 is inserted into the recess 43, 43'. By applying the coupling element 39 to the inclined surface 43 and moving the coupling element 39 towards the recess 43, 43', a force or torque can be generated that forces the coupling latch 47 into the open state. The force causes the coupling latch 47 to pivot into the open position, so that the recess 43, 43' is released and the coupling element 39 can be guided into the recess 43, 43'.This coupling mechanism can ensure efficient and safe handling of the coupling unit 37, since the inclined surface 55 allows the recess 43, 43' to be opened automatically by pivoting the coupling latch 47 under a load.

[0050] The holder 41 extends between a first end 57 and a second end 59, wherein the holder 41 is pivotably connected to the frame 3 at the first end 57 about a second pivot axis 61, and wherein the coupling latch 47 is arranged at the second end 59. Because the holder 41 is pivotably arranged on the frame 3, a user does not have to lift the suction cup 25 to couple it.

[0051] Rather, the user can position the suction foot 25 below the holder 41 in such a way that the coupling element 39 is guided into the recess 43, 43' by pivoting the holder 41 about the second pivot axis 61. This allows for particularly easy coupling of the suction foot 25 with reduced effort.

[0052] The second pivot axis 61 is arranged parallel to the first pivot axis 45. This allows for parallel and synchronous movement of the holder 41 and the coupling latch 47. This has the advantage of enabling the simplest and most reliable coupling and uncoupling of the suction foot 25 with the floor cleaning machine 1.

[0053] The holder 41 has an actuating element 63 arranged at its second end 59. The actuating element 63 can be designed such that a user can actuate it with their foot. For example, the actuating element 63 can have a pedal 65 for this purpose. The actuating element 63 can be made of a material that has a higher coefficient of friction than the material of the holder 41, thus giving the actuating element 63 greater grip or adhesion.

[0054] The holder 41 has a stop 67 designed to limit relative movement of the suction foot 25 towards a front end of the floor cleaning machine 1. The function of the suction foot 25's alignment is described below. Figure 3 explained.

[0055] Figure 3Figure 1 shows another schematic partial view of the floor cleaning machine 1 with the suction foot 25 decoupled. As already mentioned, the holder 41 has the stop 67, which is designed to limit the relative movement of the suction foot 25 such that when a suction foot section 69 is in contact with the stop 67, the coupling element 39 is aligned with the open end of the recess 43, 43'. The stop 67 serves to define a coupling position of the suction foot 25 when the suction foot 25 is decoupled from the floor cleaning machine 1. The suction foot 25 can be placed on the floor surface 7 and moved across the floor surface 7 until the suction foot section 69 is in contact with the stop 67. When the suction foot section 69 is in contact with the stop 67, the holder 41 can be pivoted about the second pivot axis 61 towards the floor surface 7 to couple the suction foot 25.The inclined surface 55 at the distal end 51 of the coupling latch 47 comes into contact with the coupling element 39, causing the coupling latch 47 to pivot from the closed to the open position against the action of the pretensioning element 53. Subsequently, once the coupling element 39 has passed the distal end, the coupling latch 47 pivots back to the closed position. Alternatively, the suction foot 25 can be raised until the coupling element 39 is held in the recess 43, 43' by the coupling latch 47. This results in a particularly simple and user-friendly coupling of the suction foot 25 to the floor cleaning machine 1.

[0056] In the embodiment described here, the holder 41 has two arms 71, 71', preferably parallel and spaced apart from each other, wherein the recess 43, 43' is formed by two slots extending, preferably parallel, in the arms 71, 71' and open at one end, wherein the coupling latch 47 is arranged between the arms 71, 71' and wherein the coupling element 39 is designed as a bolt configured to be received in both slots and to extend between them. The coupling latch 47 is, as shown in Figure 6 The coupling element 39 is arranged between arms 71 and 71', and is designed as a bolt configured to engage in both slots and extend between them. This arrangement enables precise and secure guidance of the coupling element 39, as the slots are precisely matched to the dimensions of the bolt.

[0057] In an alternative embodiment, the bolt is made in multiple parts, for example by two partial bolts, each partial bolt being received in a slot of an arm 71, 71'.

[0058] The two arms 71, 71' ensure that the coupling element 39 is held at at least two points, resulting in a stable mounting of the suction foot 25 and reducing the risk of it tilting. Inserting the bolt into the slots secures it firmly and stably, minimizing the risk of slippage or dislodging during operation. The parallel alignment of the slots allows for an even distribution of the forces absorbed and a particularly simple design, leading to increased overall stability of the coupling unit 37. This enables a robust and durable coupling of the suction foot 25, which is especially advantageous for applications subject to high mechanical stress on the suction foot 25.

[0059] The bolt is attached to a first and a second retaining arm 73, 75 and extends between them. The retaining arms 73, 75 have insertion ramps 77, 77' which are designed to center the suction cup 25 relative to the arms 71, 71' when the bolt is positioned opposite the open ends of the slots. The insertion ramps 77, 77' can be understood as inclined or inclined guide surfaces that contact the arms 71, 71' of the holder 41 and guide the retaining arms 73, 75 along the guide surfaces in such a way that the suction cup 25 is centered relative to the arms 71, 71'. The insertion ramps 77, 77' can be understood as converging surfaces inclined towards each other. The insertion ramps 77, 77' converge towards each other.This arrangement ensures that the suction foot 25 is centered relative to the arms 71, 71', so that the suction foot 25 can be coupled to the floor cleaning machine 1 even if the coupling element 39 is not initially positioned completely centered between the arms 71, 71'. This allows for particularly easy coupling with increased ease of use. The coupled state of the suction foot 25 with the holder 41 is described below with reference to... Figure 4 described.

[0060] Figure 4 shows a schematic partial view of the floor cleaning machine 1 with a coupled suction foot 25.

[0061] In the coupled state, the coupling latch 47 is in the closed position, in which it blocks the extraction of the coupling element 39 from the recess 43, 43' by completely closing the opening. Thus, the suction foot 25 is firmly coupled to the floor cleaning machine 1 when the coupling element 39 is received in the recess 43, 43' and the coupling latch 47 is in the closed position. In the open position, the coupling latch 47 is pivoted out of the way of the recess 43, 43', allowing the coupling element 39 to be extracted from the recess 43, 43'. Accordingly, the suction foot 25 can then be decoupled from the floor cleaning machine 1 when the coupling latch 47 is in the open state and the coupling element 39 can thus be led out of the recess 43, 43'.

[0062] Such a coupling mechanism 37 has the advantage of reliably securing the coupling element 39 in the recess 43, 43' to prevent accidental release. Furthermore, the pivoting mechanism of the coupling latch 47 allows for quick and easy opening and closing, which contributes to the ease of operation of the coupling mechanism 37 when coupling and uncoupling the suction foot 25 with the floor cleaning machine 1.

[0063] The suction foot 25 has a base 79 from which a front sealing lip 81 and a rear sealing lip 83 extend downwards, running essentially parallel to each other and, during suction operation when the suction foot 25 is moved over the floor surface 7 to be cleaned, essentially perpendicular to it, so that a suction chamber 85 is formed between the sealing lips 81, 83 and below the base 79. The base 79 has a connection 83 through which the suction chamber 85 can be connected to the vacuumed dirty water tank of the floor cleaning machine 1, so that dirty water located on the floor surface 7 to be cleaned can be suctioned out. As already mentioned, the suction foot 25 can be raised into a position, which is described below. Figure 5 will be explained.

[0064] Figure 5Figure 1 shows a schematic partial view of the floor cleaning machine 1 with a coupled suction foot 25 in the raised position. In the raised position, the suction foot 25 is coupled to the floor cleaning machine 1, and the wheel plane 35 is spaced away from the floor surface 7. To prevent the suction foot 25 from tilting in the raised position, the coupling unit 37 has a first contact surface 89, and the suction foot 25 has a second contact surface 91. The contact surfaces 89 and 91 are designed to abut each other when the coupling element 39 is received in the recess 43, 43', so that the suction foot 25 is aligned horizontally, substantially parallel to the floor surface 7 to be cleaned. The contact surfaces 89 and 91 are corresponding to each other, allowing them to bear against each other over their entire surface.The contact surfaces 89 and 91 ensure that the suction foot 25 remains in a position parallel to the floor surface 7, even when the holder 41 is pivoted about the second pivot axis 61 such that the suction foot 25 is moved into a position where it is spaced away from the floor surface 7. Thus, the contact surfaces 89 and 91 prevent the suction foot 25 from tilting about an axis parallel to the floor surface 7 when it is in a raised position. This prevents the suction foot 25 from dragging on the floor surface 7 when the floor cleaning machine 1 is moved across it and the suction foot 25 is raised, thereby preventing damage to the suction foot.

[0065] The following describes the construction of the coupling unit 37 based on Figure 6 explained in more detail.

[0066] Figure 6shows a schematic partial view of the coupling unit 37 of the first embodiment from the Figures 1 to 5 As in Figure 6 As shown, the actuating element 63 and the lever 49 can have a marking 93 that indicates the position of the lever 49 of the coupling latch 47. The marking 93 acts as a position indicator, showing the position of the lever 49, for example, closed and open. The marking 93 allows the user to see both the position of the lever 49 and the direction in which the lever 49 must be pivoted to open the coupling latch 47 and decouple the suction cup 25.

[0067] The slots forming the recesses 43, 43' extend along a first longitudinal axis 95, 95', the first longitudinal axis 95, 95' being perpendicular to the base surface 7 and the open ends of the slots pointing towards the base surface 7. The slots can therefore be arranged vertically to the base surface 7. This vertical arrangement can facilitate the coupling and uncoupling of the suction foot 25. For the coupling process, the suction foot 25 can be positioned as shown in Figure 2The coupling element 39 is positioned below the holder 41 and then inserted upwards into the slots, with the coupling element 39 being held in the slots by the coupling latch 47. During decoupling, the coupling element 39 can be pivoted into the open position and, under the influence of gravity, automatically slide out of the recess 43, 43'. This arrangement offers increased user-friendliness by utilizing gravity. Furthermore, it saves time and reduces the likelihood of errors when decoupling the suction foot 25. An alternative embodiment, in which the longitudinal axis 95, 95' is arranged perpendicular to the base surface 7, is shown in Figure 7 shown.

[0068] Figure 7Figure 1 shows a schematic partial view of a second embodiment of the coupling unit 37. The slots forming the recesses 43, 43' extend along a first longitudinal axis 95, 95', which is perpendicular to the base surface 7 and whose open ends point in a direction opposite to the base surface 7. The slots can therefore be arranged vertically to the base surface 7. This vertical arrangement can facilitate the coupling and uncoupling of the suction foot 25. For the coupling process, the suction foot 25 can be inserted from above into the holder 41 and then inserted downwards into the slots, with the coupling element 39 being held in the recess 43, 43' by gravity. In this embodiment, the coupling catch 47 serves as a safety device, ensuring that the coupling element 39 is held in the slots and cannot accidentally come out of them.During decoupling, the coupling element 39 can be guided upwards out of the slots by the user lifting the suction foot 25. This arrangement offers increased user-friendliness by utilizing gravity. Furthermore, it saves time and reduces the likelihood of errors when coupling the suction foot 25.

[0069] Another alternative embodiment is described in Figure 8 shown.

[0070] Figure 8Figure 1 shows a schematic partial view of a third embodiment of the coupling unit 37. In this third embodiment, the slots forming the recesses 43, 43' run along the longitudinal axis 95, 95', which is at an angle of 90° to the base surface 7. This allows the suction foot 25 to be coupled and uncoupled in a direction parallel to the base surface 7. This has the advantage that the recesses 43, 43' are more easily accessible to a user, thus facilitating at least the coupling of the suction foot 25.

[0071] In summary, it can therefore be stated that according to the invention a floor cleaning machine is provided in which the suction foot can be coupled to and detached from the floor cleaning machine in a particularly simple and time-efficient manner. Reference symbol list:

[0072] 1 Floor cleaning machine 3 Frame 5 Chassis 7 Floor surface 9 Cleaning element arrangement 11 Cleaning element 13 Housing 15 Guide handle arrangement 17 First chassis axle 19 Second chassis axle 21 First roller unit 23 Second roller unit 25 Suction foot 27 First wheel 29 Second wheel 31 Third wheel 33 Fourth wheel 35 Wheel plane 37 Coupling unit 39 Coupling element 41 Holder 43, 43' Recess 45 First pivot axis 47 Coupling latch 49 Lever 51 Distal end 53 Preload element 55 Inclined surface 57 First end 59 Second end 61 Second pivot axis 63 Actuating element 65 Pedal 67 Stop 69 Suction foot section 71, 71' Arm 73 first retaining arm 75 second retaining arm 77, 77' insertion ramp 79 base 81 front sealing lip 83 rear sealing lip 85 extraction chamber 87 connection 89 first contact surface 91 second contact surface 93 marking 95, 95' longitudinal axis

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 (7) to be cleaned, a cleaning element arrangement (9) with at least one, preferably driven, cleaning element (11), wherein the cleaning element (11) is designed to engage with the floor surface (7) to be cleaned, a suction foot (25) that can be coupled to the frame (3), wherein the suction foot (25) can be connected to the frame (3) via a coupling unit (37), the coupling unit (37) comprising: a coupling element (39) arranged on one side of the suction foot (25) and the frame (3), a holder (41) attached to the other side of the suction foot (25) and the frame (3) with a recess (43, 43') having an open end for receiving the coupling element (39), and a pivot point on the holder (41) about a first pivot axis (45) pivotally arranged coupling latch (47),which is pivotable between a closed state, in which the coupling latch (47) is pivoted about the first pivot axis (45) such that it closes the recess (43, 43') in such a way as to prevent the coupling element (39) from being pulled out of the recess (43, 43'), and an open state, in which the coupling latch (47) is pivoted about the first pivot axis (45) such that the recess (43, 43') is released and the coupling element (39) can be moved out of the recess (43, 43'), and a lever (49) connected to the coupling latch (47) with which the coupling latch (47) can be pivoted into the open state, wherein the coupling latch (47) at its distal end (51), away from the first pivot axis (45), forms a first opening from the recess (43, 43') has a guiding inclined surface (55) which is designed such that the coupling latch (47) is pivoted from the closed position to the open position,when the coupling element (39) rests against the inclined surface (55) and is moved in the direction of the recess (43, 43').

2. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the lever (49) extends away from the coupling latch (47) in a direction that points away from the distal end (51).

3. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the holder (41) has two arms (71, 71') extending, preferably parallel and spaced apart from each other, wherein the recess (43, 43') is formed by two slots extending, preferably parallel, in the arms (71, 71') and open at one end, wherein the coupling latch (47) is arranged between the arms (71, 71') and wherein the coupling element (39) is designed as a bolt configured to be received in both slots and to extend between them.

4. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to claim 3, wherein the slots forming the recesses (43, 43') extend along a first longitudinal axis (95, 95'), wherein the first longitudinal axis (95, 95') is arranged perpendicular to the floor surface (7) and the open ends of the slots point towards the floor surface (7).

5. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to claim 3, wherein the slots forming the recesses (43, 43') extend along a first longitudinal axis (95, 95'), wherein the first longitudinal axis (95, 95') is arranged at a first angle to the floor surface (7), wherein the first angle is in a range of 90° - 0°, preferably in a range of 80° - 10°, more preferably in a range of 70° - 20°.

6. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the bolt is attached to a first and a second retaining arm (73, 75) and extends between them, and wherein the retaining arms (73, 75) have insertion ramps (77, 77') which are designed to center the suction foot (25) relative to the arms (71, 71') when the bolt is positioned opposite the open ends of the slots.

7. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holder (41) extends from a first end (57) to a second end (59), wherein the holder (41) is pivotably connected to the frame (3) at the first end (57) about a second pivot axis (61), and wherein the coupling latch (47) is arranged at the second end (59).

8. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to claim 7, wherein the holder (41) has an actuating element (63) arranged at the second end (59).

9. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recess (43, 43') widens towards the open end.

10. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holder (41) has a stop (67) which is designed to limit a relative movement of the suction foot (25) towards a front end of the floor cleaning machine (1) such that when a section of the suction foot (25) is in contact with the stop (67) the coupling element (39) is aligned with the open end of the recess (43, 43').

11. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling unit (37) has a pretensioning element (53) that pretensions the coupling latch (47) towards the closed state.

12. Floor cleaning machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling unit (37) has a first contact surface (89) and the suction foot (25) has a second contact surface (91), wherein the contact surfaces (89, 91) are designed to abut each other when the coupling element (39) is received in the recess (43, 43') so that the suction foot (25) is aligned horizontally, substantially parallel to the floor surface (7) to be cleaned.

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