Liquid tank for a cleaning machine, and cleaning machine

Abstract

A liquid tank for a cleaning machine (10) is proposed, comprising a shell (124) with a receiving space (130), a cover device (146), which is positioned on the shell (124) and closes the receiving space (130), wherein the cover device (146) is openable, and a sealing device (156), which is seated on the shell (124) and / or on the cover device (146) and, with the cover device (146) closed, ensures fluid-tight sealing between the cover device (146) and the shell (124), wherein the cover device (146) is articulated on the shell (124) so as to be pivotable about a cover pivot axis (150), wherein a movable handle (202) is arranged on the cover device (146), said handle having a base position (208) when the cover device (146) is closed, and wherein an operating device (220) is connected to the handle (202), and a supporting device (166) for the operating device (220) is arranged on the shell (124), wherein, in the closed position (154) of the cover device (146), and with the handle (202) being moved out of the base position (208), the operating device (220) is supported on the supporting device (166) and causes the cover device (146) to be pivoted out of the closed position (154) about the cover pivot axis (150).

Description

[0001] Liquid tank for a cleaning machine and cleaning machine

[0002] The invention relates to a liquid tank for a cleaning machine, comprising a tray with a receiving space, a lid device which is positioned on the tray and closes the receiving space, wherein the lid device is openable, and a sealing device which is seated on the tray and / or the lid device and ensures a fluid-tight seal between the lid device and the tray when the lid device is closed.

[0003] The invention further relates to a cleaning machine comprising at least one cleaning tool.

[0004] DE 20 2011 111 145 Ul discloses a device for surface cleaning with a scrubbing arrangement.

[0005] DE 103 24 826 A1 discloses a floor cleaning machine which can be moved over a floor and has at least two dirt collecting containers.

[0006] WO 2020 / 207557 A1 discloses a surface cleaning machine comprising a cleaning head with at least one cleaning roller unit driven for rotational movement, and a tank device for dirty fluid. A probe device is provided for determining the filling level of the tank device for dirty fluid.

[0007] EP 3 750 466 A1 discloses an autonomous floor cleaner with a carrying handle. DE 10 2005 030 982 A1 discloses a gas- and liquid-tight closure for a container.

[0008] DE 10 2006 061 202 Al discloses a floor nozzle for a hard floor.

[0009] US 2008 / 0190969 A1 discloses a precision lid for closing a container for liquid.

[0010] CN 2003-341706 discloses a container closure.

[0011] The invention is based on the object of providing a liquid tank of the type mentioned at the outset which can be used in a simple manner by an operator.

[0012] This object is achieved according to the invention in the liquid tank mentioned at the outset in that the lid device is pivotably connected to the shell about a lid pivot axis, that a movable handle is arranged on the lid device, which has a basic position when the lid device is closed, and that an operating device is connected to the handle and a support device for the operating device is arranged on the shell, wherein when the lid device is in the closed position and the handle is moved out of the basic position, the operating device is supported on the support device and causes the lid device to pivot out of the closed position about the lid pivot axis.

[0013] The basic problem is that when a lid is opened, the liquid tank is jolted, which can cause (dirt-laden) liquid to spill out.

[0014] In the solution according to the invention, a controlled opening takes place starting from a closed lid device via the movable handle, so that jerking during opening and thus also spilling out of liquid can be largely avoided.

[0015] The handle with the operating device, which is supported on the support device of the shell, allows the frictional force of the sealing device to be overcome in a controlled manner during the opening process, thus avoiding any jerking action.

[0016] A liquid tank according to the invention can be used in different types of cleaning machines.

[0017] It is advantageous if the support device comprises at least one column with a contact surface for the active device, wherein the contact surface in particular forms a guideway for the handle and / or a sliding surface for the active device. The column provides a kind of platform, via which the active device can be supported on the shell. This results in a simple structural design, since the at least one column guides the contact surface closer to the lid device.

[0018] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the at least one column is located on a base of the tray, wherein, when the lid device is closed, said column is positioned opposite the base; the at least one column extends in a vertical direction away from a base of the tray; a plurality of spaced-apart columns are provided, and in particular, exactly two columns are provided.

[0019] This results in a structurally simple design and easy operation. The columns can also be used for other purposes, such as as a holder, particularly for hanging attachment to a cleaning machine.

[0020] If a plurality of spaced columns are provided, controlled opening can be achieved in a simple manner, whereby a large receiving volume can be achieved.

[0021] It is advantageous if at least one recess for the support device on the shell is arranged on the lid device. This allows the support device on the shell to be acted upon via the operating device located on the lid device, in order to achieve relative movement between the lid device and the shell by pivoting the handle. The recess can be continuous or, for example, like a blind hole.

[0022] At least one of the following is then preferably provided: at least when the lid device is closed, at least one column and in particular exactly one column of the support device is positioned in a corresponding recess; a sealing device is provided which, when the lid device is closed, ensures a fluid-tight seal between the support device and the lid device at the at least one recess; a sealing device is arranged at the at least one recess and / or at least one column of the support device; the active device acts on the support device at the at least one recess. This results in a structurally simple design, wherein support of the active device on the shell is possible during the opening process.The sealing device results in a fluid-tight closure of the lid device to the tray when the lid device is in the closed position.

[0023] In a structurally advantageous embodiment, the operating device comprises at least one cam that acts on the support device. The corresponding contour of the at least one cam allows the kinematics of the opening process for the movement of the lid device relative to the tray to be defined. The at least one cam is a control cam for the controlled opening of the lid device starting from the closed position of the lid device, in particular to prevent sudden opening with the risk of liquid spilling out.

[0024] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: a plurality of spaced-apart cams are provided; one and in particular exactly one cam is assigned to a column and in particular exactly one column of the support device and can be supported on this.

[0025] This results in a structurally simple design.

[0026] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: starting from the basic position of the handle and the closed position of the lid device, the operating device is supported on the support device when the handle is moved up to a certain pivoting angle of the lid device about the lid pivot axis; after exceeding the certain pivoting angle, the operating device is spaced from the support device and no longer acts on it.

[0027] The operating mechanism then rests on the support device only for the defined opening process. Once the specified swivel angle is reached and then exceeded, the operating mechanism no longer has any effect. This results in a structurally simple design.

[0028] In particular, it is advantageous if the sealing device is arranged on the lid and moves with the handle, which causes the lid to pivot. This allows the lid to open in a controlled manner. In particular, the frictional force of the sealing device can be overcome, thus preventing a sudden opening with the risk of liquid spilling out.

[0029] Accordingly, it is advantageous if the action device is adapted to the support device in such a way that, when the lid device is opened, the frictional force of the sealing device is overcome by moving the handle. This allows the frictional connection between the lid device and the bowl to be eliminated when the lid device is closed, minimizing the risk of liquid spilling out of the liquid tank.

[0030] In one embodiment, which is structurally simple, the handle is pivotally mounted on the lid assembly around a handle pivot axis. This provides easy access for the operator.

[0031] For example, a stop is arranged on the lid assembly, which limits the handle's pivoting angle away from the lid assembly. Starting from the handle's basic position, which can be defined as a zero pivot angle, a maximum pivot angle can be set.

[0032] It is provided that at least one of the following is present: the handle pivot axis is spaced from the lid pivot axis; the handle pivot axis is parallel to the lid pivot axis; the handle pivot axis is oriented transversely to a vertical extension direction of the support device.

[0033] This makes it easy to use.

[0034] In particular, it is advantageous if at least one of the following is present: the handle is designed as a pulling device for an operator to pull on the lid device; the handle with the operating device is designed as a lever.

[0035] The handle allows for controlled opening. Furthermore, the lid assembly can be fully opened using the handle. The handle then serves as a handling element for the operator, and preferably, together with the operating mechanism, it also forms a lever for controlled opening of the lid assembly.

[0036] It is advantageous if the handle is designed as a bow handle, in particular with at least one of the following: the handle comprises a first bow element, a second bow element spaced from the first bow element, and a third bow element which is connected to the first bow element and is connected to the second bow element, wherein the handle is movably mounted on the lid device via the first bow element and the second bow element; a first cam of the active device is seated on the first bow element and a second cam of the active device is seated on the second bow element; a bow of the bow handle surrounds a locking button of the liquid tank.

[0037] This results in ease of use. When the handle bar surrounds a fluid tank locking button, the design saves space.

[0038] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the handle is positioned in a fixing area for securing the fluid tank to the cleaning machine. This results in a space-saving design.

[0039] It is particularly advantageous if a spring device is assigned to the handle, which exerts a spring force on the handle, wherein the spring force strives to bring the handle into the home position. An operator must therefore exert a force to move the handle from its home position. As soon as the handle is released, it returns to the home position. If, for example, the lid device is returned from an open position to the closed position, the active device in cooperation with the support device does not hinder closing if the operator does not engage the handle. In one embodiment, the shell has a first end and an opposite second end, wherein a distance direction between the first and the second end lies perpendicular to the lid pivot axis.

[0040] A lid pivot bearing for pivoting the lid assembly around the lid pivot axis is located in the area of ​​the first end, and the handle is positioned closer to the second end than the lid pivot bearing. This allows the lid assembly to be opened widely and, in particular, completely. In particular, the lid pivot bearing is then a hinge bearing.

[0041] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: when the liquid tank is fixed to the cleaning machine, the second end of the liquid tank lies on an outer contour of the cleaning machine or is closer to an outer contour of the cleaning machine than the first end; at the first end, the shell is straight.

[0042] This results in a structurally simple design. It optimizes space utilization and allows for a large storage volume.

[0043] It is advantageous if the maximum pivot angle of the lid assembly relative to the tray, starting from a closed lid assembly, is at least 90°, preferably at least 120°, preferably at least 150°, preferably at least 175°, and preferably approximately 180°. This allows the liquid tank to be easily emptied and cleaned.

[0044] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the sealing device between the shell and the lid device is arranged circumferentially on the lid device and / or on the shell; the sealing device comprises a radial seal; in the closed position of the lid device, the lid device is fixed to the shell by means of a frictional connection, wherein in particular the sealing device contributes to the frictional connection.

[0045] This results in a fluid-tight seal of the liquid tank between the bowl and the lid device when the lid device is closed, in a structurally simple manner.

[0046] In one embodiment, an inlet device for coupling liquid into the receiving space is arranged on the cover device.

[0047] This allows a large recording volume to be provided.

[0048] It can be provided that at least one channel is arranged on the lid device, which has a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, with the outlet opening into the receiving space. This allows for a high receiving volume.

[0049] It is advantageous if the outlet has a normal orifice that is oriented transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the bottom of the bowl when the lid is closed. This allows for a high intake volume.

[0050] For the same reason, it is advantageous if the at least one channel is oriented at an acute angle to the lid pivot axis with respect to a longitudinal direction, wherein the acute angle is in particular in the range between 30° and 60°. Reference is made to PCT / EP2023 / 052810 It is also advantageous if a sensor device is arranged on the lid device. This allows the tray to be kept free of a sensor device or the like to a certain extent. The sensor device is in particular a fill level sensor device for determining a fill level in the receiving volume during operation of the liquid tank. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor device can, for example, also be a sensor or comprise a sensor which determines a degree of contamination of liquid in the liquid tank.

[0051] The solution according to the invention is particularly advantageous when the liquid tank has a flat design, such as when used on a floor-cleaning robot. In particular, the ratio of the height of the tray to the width of the tray (perpendicular to the height) is less than or equal to one, and in particular less than or equal to 0.5.

[0052] The liquid tank is preferably designed as a unit which can be removed as a whole from the cleaning machine and can then be emptied and cleaned separately from the cleaning machine.

[0053] In one embodiment, the liquid tank is designed as a dirty fluid tank. It serves to hold liquid-laden dirty fluid.

[0054] According to the invention, a cleaning machine of the type mentioned at the outset is provided, which comprises at least one liquid tank according to the invention.

[0055] In one embodiment, the cleaning machine has a cleaning head, such as a floor head, on which the at least one cleaning tool is arranged, wherein the at least one liquid tank is removably positioned on the cleaning head. A corresponding cleaning machine is, for example, a floor cleaning robot or a hand-held floor mop. In particular, the cleaning machine is designed as a surface cleaning machine, and in particular as a floor cleaning machine, which serves to clean surfaces such as floors.

[0056] A cleaning machine according to the invention can be designed as a hand-held and / or hand-guided or as a self-propelled and self-steering cleaning machine (robot).

[0057] In particular, the cleaning machine is designed as a wet cleaning machine, with at least one fluid tank serving to hold liquid-laden dirty fluid. A humidification device can be provided, through which the at least one cleaning tool and / or a surface to be cleaned can be exposed to a cleaning fluid. The cleaning machine then provides the fluid, which is then collected again (with dirt) in the fluid tank.

[0058] In one embodiment, the cleaning machine has at least one driven roller as a cleaning tool. For example, this driven roller has a textile lining to absorb the dirt fluid.

[0059] According to the invention, a liquid tank according to the invention is used on a floor cleaning machine which is self-propelled and self-steering, or which is hand-guided and / or hand-held.

[0060] The following description of preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the drawings, serves to further explain the invention. They show:

[0061] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a cleaning machine according to the invention in the form of a self-steering and self-propelled floor cleaning robot; Figure 2 shows a bottom view of the cleaning machine according to Figure 1;

[0062] Figure 3 shows the cleaning machine according to Figure 1, wherein a liquid tank according to an embodiment of a liquid tank according to the invention is removed from the cleaning machine;

[0063] Figure 4 is a sectional view of the liquid tank according to Figure 3 in the plane 4 according to Figure 3 with a lid device in the closed position;

[0064] Figure 5 is a sectional view in plane 5 according to Figure 3;

[0065] Figure 6 is a sectional view in plane 5 according to Figure 3 during a controlled opening process of the lid device, wherein a handle is pivoted and the lid device is pivoted into a tray;

[0066] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the liquid tank when opening the lid device with the handle pivoted;

[0067] Figure 8 shows a further view of the liquid tank according to Figure 3 with the lid device partially opened;

[0068] Figure 9 shows the liquid tank according to Figure 3 with the lid device fully opened;

[0069] Figure 10 shows a partial area of ​​the liquid tank according to Figure 3 in the area of ​​the handle when the handle is pivoted; and

[0070] Figure 11 is a view similar to Figure 7, wherein, starting from the fully open position shown in Figure 9, the lid device is pivoted back into the closed position with the handle not pivoted.

[0071] One embodiment of a cleaning device according to the invention is a self-propelled and self-steering floor cleaning device (Figures 1 to 3). This floor cleaning device 10 comprises a cleaning head (floor head) 12, which comprises a self-propelled and self-steering traveling body 14. During cleaning operation, the floor cleaning device 10 is placed with its traveling body 14 on a floor 16 to be cleaned.

[0072] A drive system (not shown in the drawings) is arranged on the traveling body 14. This system drives wheels 18. In one embodiment, a first wheel 18a and a second wheel 18b are provided.

[0073] The wheels 18 are driven by the drive to rotate around a wheel axle 19.

[0074] Furthermore, a support roller 20 is arranged on the traveling body 14, which has a rotation axis 21. The support roller 20 is pivotable about a (steering) axis 22, which is perpendicular to the rotation axis 21.

[0075] In one embodiment, the support roller 20 is a passive steering roller which is not driven (and in particular is not driven in a rotation about the rotation axis 21 and in a pivoting movement about the axis 22).

[0076] A change in direction of the floor cleaning device 10 on the floor head 12 is effected by corresponding control of the wheels 18a and 18b by a control device which is arranged on the traveling body 14, wherein in particular for a change in direction these can be rotated at different speeds.

[0077] In principle, it can also be provided that the support roller 20 is an active steering roller for directional control of the floor cleaning device 10. The floor cleaning device 10 has a main direction of travel 24. This main direction of travel 24 is the direction of travel of the floor cleaning device 10 when the support roller 20 is aligned such that its rotational axis 21 is parallel to the wheel axle 19.

[0078] The floor head 12 has a support surface 26 above the carriage 14. The support surface 26 is defined by the wheels 18 and the support roller 20. A cleaning roller 28 is located on the support surface 26.

[0079] A navigation device 30 is arranged on the traveling body 14. The navigation device 30 is a sensor device and comprises at least one sensor element. The navigation device 30 is connected in a signal-effective manner to the control device for controlling the traveling operation of the floor cleaning device 10. The navigation device comprises, for example, one or more optical sensors, one or more radar sensors, one or more IR sensors, and / or one or more ultrasonic sensors.

[0080] The vehicle body 14 has a front end 32 and a rear end 34 relative to the main direction of travel 24. In the area of ​​the rear end 34, a tank combination 36 comprising a dirt fluid tank 38, which is designed as a liquid tank suitable for holding a liquid-laden dirt fluid, and a cleaning fluid tank 40 is removably arranged on the vehicle body 14. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0081] Dirt fluid is defined as a fluid that is essentially flowable. It can be composed of dirt particles or a mixture of dirt particles and a liquid (especially water, possibly with a surfactant cleaning agent added).

[0082] The traveling body 14 has a bottom side 42 and an upper side 44 opposite the bottom side. The wheels 18 and the support roller 20 are arranged on the bottom side 42. The navigation device 30 is arranged, at least in part, on the upper side 44.

[0083] Between the underside 42 and the upper side 44, the traveling body 14 has a wall 46.

[0084] A bumper 48 is arranged on the wall 46 in the area of ​​the front end 32, which can be used to tactilely detect collisions of the floor cleaning device 10 with obstacles. The bumper 48 is or includes one or more tactile sensor elements that are connected to the control device for signal transmission.

[0085] A center 50 is assigned to the bottom head 12 (Figure 1). The center 50 is a geometric center of gravity of the bottom head 12 (with tanks 38, 40). This center 50 can be assigned a height direction (axial direction) 52 perpendicular to the installation plane 26 and, accordingly, a circumferential direction. The impact body 48 extends along the wall 46 in the circumferential direction, in particular over an angular range of at least 120° and preferably of at least 150°.

[0086] Cliff sensors 54 are arranged on the underside of the chassis 42, which are connected to the control unit for signaling purposes. These cliff sensors 54 serve to prevent the floor cleaning device 10 from falling, for example, when reaching a staircase, by detecting "cliffs" accordingly.

[0087] The floor cleaning device 10 has a particularly rechargeable battery device, which is arranged on the chassis 14. For example, a corresponding battery compartment 56 is provided, which is accessible from the underside 42 and is closed by a cover 58.

[0088] Additional elements such as a sensor 60 for carpet detection, a WiFi module, etc. can be arranged on the chassis. Charging contacts 62 are also arranged on the chassis to enable charging of the battery device at a charging station.

[0089] In the embodiment shown, charging contacts 62 are arranged on the underside 42.

[0090] The base head 12 has an outer contour 64 in the shape of a circle in a top view in the height direction 52 of the upper side 44. A distance in the radial direction perpendicular to the height direction 52 from the center 50 to an upper edge of the wall 46 is at least approximately equal (corresponding to the radius of the circle).

[0091] It is also fundamentally possible for the outer contour 64 to have an approximately circular shape, in which case a distance to the outer contour from the center 50 deviates by a maximum of 15% from a corresponding mean value.

[0092] The traveling body 14 (the bottom head 12 without the tank combination 36) has as its outer contour the shape of a circular segment with a first chord 66. The first chord 66 is oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the main direction of travel 24.

[0093] In one embodiment, it is oriented at least approximately parallel to the wheel axis 19.

[0094] Relative to the front end 32, the first tendon 66 lies beyond the center 50. It lies at the rear end 34. Between the first tendon 66 and the front end 32 lies the center 50.

[0095] In the plan view of the upper side 44 in the height direction 52, the tank combination 36 also has the shape of a second circular segment with a second chord 68 as its outer contour. The first circular segment of the outer contour 64 of the traveling body 14 and the second circular segment of the outer contour of the tank combination 36 complement each other to form the circular outer contour of the base head 12.

[0096] When the tank combination 36 is mounted on the vehicle body 14, the second chord 68 is parallel to the first chord 66 and immediately adjacent thereto.

[0097] A receiving shaft 70 for the cleaning roller 28 is arranged or formed on the traveling body 14. The receiving shaft 70 is located on the traveling body 14 in the region of the rear end 34. The receiving shaft 70 has a longitudinal extension direction 72 that is transverse and in particular perpendicular to the main direction of travel 24. The longitudinal extension direction 72 is also at least approximately parallel to the wheel axis 19.

[0098] In one embodiment, the longitudinal direction 72 is parallel to the first chord 66.

[0099] The receiving shaft is open to the underside 42 of the traveling body 14, which is a floor side (facing the installation plane 26), so that a cleaning roller 28 held in the receiving shaft 70 can act on the floor 16 to be cleaned.

[0100] Towards the upper side 44 and thus facing away from the lower side 42, the receiving shaft 70 is closed by a cover wall.

[0101] Between the cover wall 74 and the underside 42, the traveling body has a wall 76, which delimits the receiving shaft 70 towards an interior of the traveling body 14. The travel drive, the control device, etc., are arranged in the interior of the traveling body 14.

[0102] The receiving shaft 70 is open to the rear end 34 via an opening 80. The traveling body 14 has a first lateral side 82 and an opposite lateral side 84. The lateral sides 82, 84 are relative to the main direction of travel 24.

[0103] In the plan view in the height direction 52 from above (Figure 1) of the base body 12, the front end 32 is followed clockwise by the second lateral side 84, then on the traveling body 14 the rear end 34 and then the first lateral side 82.

[0104] On the first lateral side 82, a side wall 86 is located on the traveling body 14. This side wall 86 delimits the receiving shaft 70 towards the first lateral side 82. The side wall 86 has an extension transverse to the first chord 66.

[0105] The side wall 86 follows the circular outer contour 64.

[0106] The receiving shaft 70 has an opening 88 opposite the side wall 86 on the second lateral side 84.

[0107] A drive motor 90 for the cleaning roller 28 is located on the side wall 86.

[0108] The drive motor 90 is supplied with electrical energy by the battery device in the battery compartment 56.

[0109] In principle, it is also possible for the drive motor 90 to be located, for example, behind the wall 76. A torque transmission device is then arranged on the side wall 86.

[0110] The drive motor 90 is associated with a drive shaft 92, which is rotatable about a rotational axis 94. The drive shaft 92 extends into the receiving shaft 70. During operation of the floor cleaning device 10, it is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the cleaning roller 28. The drive shaft 92 drives a rotational movement of the cleaning roller 28 about a rotational axis that coincides with the rotational axis 94.

[0111] In the embodiment shown, the drive shaft 92 is directly connected to the drive motor 90, i.e. it is an output shaft of the drive motor 90 or coaxially connected to such an output shaft.

[0112] The drive shaft 92 is rotatably mounted. In the illustrated embodiment, it is mounted directly on the drive motor 90. It forms a first pivot bearing 96 for the rotating support of the cleaning roller 28 during rotation about the rotation axis 94.

[0113] The rotation axis 94 is transverse and in particular perpendicular to the main direction of travel 24.

[0114] The rotation axis 94 is parallel to the installation plane 26.

[0115] The rotation axis is transverse and in particular perpendicular to the height direction 52 (which is a normal axis to the installation plane 26).

[0116] Furthermore, the rotation axis 94 is particularly parallel to the wheel axis 19. Furthermore, it is particularly parallel to the first chord 66.

[0117] The longitudinal extension direction 72 of the receiving shaft 70 is parallel to the rotation axis 94.

[0118] The floor cleaning device 10 comprises a cassette 98. The cassette 98 serves to hold the cleaning roller 28 in the receiving shaft 70 during operation of the floor cleaning device 10, and to hold the cleaning roller 28 when inserted into the carriage 14 and when removed from the carriage 14.

[0119] A cassette is understood to be an inherently rigid or stable structure, which is, in a sense, a receiving container for the cleaning roller 28 (but does not have to be closed), and can be handled as an independent unit.

[0120] The cassette 98 includes a cover 100. The cover 100 serves to close the opening 88 of the receiving shaft 70 when the cassette 98 is inserted. When the cassette 98 is inserted into the carriage 14, the cover 100 is located opposite the side wall 86.

[0121] The cover 100 is adapted in its geometric shape to the outer contour 64 of the traveling body 14 and in particular is curved accordingly in order to follow the circular contour.

[0122] A locking device 102 is provided to fix the cover 100 to the moving body 14 and thus to lock the cassette 98 to the moving body 14. This locking device comprises, for example, an unlocking button 104, which is arranged on the moving body 14 and acts on a locking pawl. In one embodiment, a counter-element for the locking pawl is arranged on the cover 100, wherein the counter-element has an opening into which the locking pawl can be inserted. By actuating the unlocking button 104, the locking pawl, which is in particular spring-supported, can be displaced from the counter-element, and the corresponding locking of the cover 100 to the moving body 14 is released.

[0123] A second pivot bearing 108 is located on the cover for the rotation of the cleaning roller 28 around the rotation axis 94.

[0124] In one embodiment, the second pivot bearing 108 is designed as a ball bearing. The cleaning roller 28 can be fixed to the second pivot bearing 108 in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0125] When the cassette 98 is properly secured to the carriage 14, the cleaning roller 28 is rotatably mounted opposite one another on the first pivot bearing 96 and the second pivot bearing 108. The cleaning roller 28 is supported accordingly at its opposite end faces. The cleaning roller 28 is held on both sides between the first pivot bearing 96 and the second pivot bearing 108. The cleaning roller 28 is held in the receiving shaft 70 in a suspended manner between the first pivot bearing 96 and the second pivot bearing 108 and is supported at its respective end faces. This allows the use of cleaning rollers 28 with a greater length (in a longitudinal direction parallel to the rotation axis 94) and also allows the absorption of greater torsional moments. This prevents the cleaning roller 28 from wobbling.

[0126] An embodiment of the cassette 98 is described in the unpublished international patent application PCT / EP2023 / 052810 of February 6, 2023, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0127] The cleaning roller 28 comprises a carrier 110 on which a cleaning medium 112 is arranged. The carrier 110 is an annular cylinder with openings at least at its front ends. It is also possible to have a continuous opening.

[0128] The cleaning medium 112 is a covering that is fixed to the carrier 110. For use as a wet mop device of the cleaning machine 10, the cleaning medium 112 is in particular a textile covering, such as a microfiber covering, which is attached to the carrier 110. It is also possible for the cleaning medium 112 to be formed by bristles, in particular if the floor cleaning device 10 is designed or used as a sweeping device. It is also possible, for example, for the cleaning medium 112 to comprise both bristles and textile covering areas. The floor cleaning device 110 comprises a moistening device 114. The moistening device 114 allows the cleaning roller 28 and / or the surface 16 to be cleaned to be exposed to cleaning fluid. The cleaning fluid is in particular fresh water, to which a cleaning agent, in particular a surfactant, may be added.The cleaning fluid tank 40 is part of the humidification device 114 and holds this cleaning fluid.

[0129] In one embodiment, a distribution device of the moistening device 114 for cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid tank 40 is arranged on the cassette 98. The distribution device comprises one or more distribution channels. Cleaning fluid can be supplied to the cleaning roller 28 via these channels, either by gravity or pump.

[0130] In this context, reference is made to PCT / EP2023 / 052810 and incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0131] A scraper element is mounted on the cassette 98. The scraper element is, in particular, removable from the cassette 98. The scraper element serves to scrape dirt fluid from the cleaning roller 28 (from the filling of the cleaning roller 28) and to guide dirt fluid via a corresponding guide device to the dirt fluid tank 38. In this context, reference is made to PCT / EP2023 / 052810, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0132] One embodiment of a scraper element is formed in one piece. It comprises a body. A channel device is integrated into the body. In one embodiment, the channel device comprises a channel with an inlet opening and an outlet opening. With the scraper element properly positioned on the cassette 98 and the cassette 98 held on the carriage body 14, the inlet opening faces the cleaning roller 28, and the outlet opening faces an inlet of the dirty fluid tank 38.

[0133] The stripping element is in particular held movably in the cassette 98.

[0134] In one embodiment, a sweeping device 120 for coarse dirt is arranged on the cassette 98. It serves to deliver coarse dirt to the cleaning roller 28 or, to some extent, to load it with coarse dirt particles.

[0135] With regard to an embodiment of such a sweeping device 120, reference is made to PCT / EP2023 / 052810.

[0136] In the tank combination 36, the cleaning fluid tank 40 is positioned above the dirty fluid tank 38, i.e. the dirty fluid tank 38 is closer to the installation plane 26 than the cleaning fluid tank 40.

[0137] A receptacle is formed on the carriage body 14. The cleaning fluid tank 40 has a tab designed to be immersed in the receptacle. A sliding guide is arranged on the carriage body 14 at the receptacle, and corresponding counter-elements are arranged on the tab. Furthermore, a locking device is provided, by which the tab can be locked in the receptacle with the carriage body. Reference is made in this context to PCT / EP2023 / 052810.

[0138] The cleaning fluid tank 40 has a top side 122. When the cleaning fluid tank 40 is seated on the base head 12, i.e., connected to the carriage 14, this top side 122 is aligned flush with a top side of the base head 12. The cleaning fluid tank 40 has a connection adapted to a connection on the cassette 98 for providing cleaning fluid. The dirty fluid tank 38 is an exemplary embodiment of a fluid tank according to the invention. It comprises (Figures 3 to 11) a tray 124. The tray 124 has a (tray) bottom 126, on which a wall 128 is arranged. A receiving space 130 for dirty fluid, and in particular liquid-containing dirty fluid, is formed between the wall 128 and the bottom 126.

[0139] The fluid tank 38 has a first end 132 and a second end 134 opposite the first end. The fluid tank 38 is removably positioned on the traveling body 14. The first end 132 lies on the second chord 68. The second end 134 lies on an outer side of the bottom head 12 when the fluid tank 38 is properly mounted on the traveling body 14.

[0140] At the first end 132, the liquid tank 28 has a straight extension. A wall portion 136 of the wall 128 at the first end 132 has a substantially straight extension. This extension is perpendicular to the plane of the drawing, for example, in Figure 4.

[0141] In one embodiment, a rounded area 138 is located on the wall part 136 facing the cleaning roller 28 when the liquid tank 38 is positioned on the base head 12, which rounded area is adapted to the cylindrical shape of the cleaning roller 28.

[0142] The wall 128 has a second wall part 140, which is connected to the first wall part 136 on both sides. The second wall part 140 follows the outer contour of the base head 12 or determines the outer contour of the base head 12 on the dirty fluid tank 38 when the latter is attached to the base head 12.

[0143] The second wall part 140 has the shape (with respect to its outer envelope) of a circular arc if the floor cleaning device 10 is circular in plan view or a correspondingly adapted shape, for example, if the floor head 12 has an oval shape in plan view.

[0144] The wall 128 extends in a height direction 142 (Figure 4) away from the base 126 and is connected thereto in particular in one piece.

[0145] In one embodiment, a roller 144 is located on the bottom 126 on an underside. This roller 144 lies on the installation plane 126 and serves for (additional) support of the base head 12 in the area of ​​the tank combination 36 when the liquid tank 38 is fixed to the base head 12.

[0146] The liquid tank 38 comprises a lid device 146. The lid device 146 is arranged at a distance from the base 126 in the vertical direction 142 and closes the receiving space 130 upwards. The lid device 146 is openable (see, for example, Figure 9).

[0147] In principle, the cover device 146 can be designed in several parts with several individual covers. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover device 146 comprises a single cover.

[0148] The lid assembly 146 is pivotally connected to the tray 124 via a lid pivot bearing 148. A pivot axis 150 of the lid pivot bearing 148 is transverse and, in particular, perpendicular to the vertical direction 142. The pivot axis 150 is at least approximately parallel to an inner side 152 (Figure 5) of the base 126.

[0149] The pivot axis 150 is at least approximately parallel to the first wall part 136.

[0150] The lid pivot bearing 148 is located on the first wall part 136 and thus on the first end 132 of the shell 124. The lid pivot bearing 148 is located in an upper region of the first wall part 136 with respect to the height direction 142.

[0151] In one embodiment, the lid pivot bearing 148 is designed as a hinge bearing. This allows the lid device 146 to be opened such that the tray 124 with the receiving space 130 is completely exposed upwards relative to the vertical direction 142 (see Figure 9).

[0152] The cover device 146 is adapted in its shape to the shell 124. In a closed position 154 of the cover device 146 (compare Figures 3 to 5), the receiving space 130 is fluid-tightly sealed outside an inlet device for dirty fluid and, in particular, fluid-tightly sealed in the height direction 142 by the cover device 146.

[0153] To provide fluid tightness, a sealing device 156 is provided between the shell 124 and the lid device 146 and in particular between the wall 128 of the shell 124 and the lid device 146.

[0154] In one embodiment, the sealing device 156 is fixedly arranged on the cover device 146. It is designed as a one-piece or multi-piece circumferential sealing device 156, which extends circumferentially on the cover device 146 and, in particular, is closed circumferentially adapted to the shape of the wall 128.

[0155] The sealing device 156 is designed as a radial seal or comprises at least one radial component 158. In the closed position 154 of the cover device 146, the radial component 158 ​​rests against an inner side of the wall 128, i.e., lies in the receiving space 130.

[0156] The closed position 154 is defined, for example, by a stop 160 (see Figure 5) formed on the shell 124. The stop 160 can be formed, for example, on the wall 128 or, as explained later, on a support device. The stop 160 limits the pivotability of the lid device 146 toward the base 126.

[0157] The closed position 154 is defined in particular such that in it the cover device 146 is oriented at least approximately parallel to the base 126, at least with respect to envelope surfaces.

[0158] In the closed position 154, the radial component 158 ​​of the sealing device 156 exerts a force on the wall 128, or a counterforce acts. As a result, the closed position 154 is held by the sealing device 156 with respect to an opening of the cover device 146. To open the cover device 146 from the closed position 154, a corresponding force must be applied.

[0159] A first column 162 and a second column 164 are fixed to the shell 124 and thereby to the base 126 at a distance from one another (see, for example, Figure 8). The first column 162 and the second column 164 are spaced apart from one another in a direction parallel to the direction of the pivot axis 150. In particular, they are aligned parallel.

[0160] The first column 162 and the second column 164 each extend in the height direction 142 away from the floor 126.

[0161] In particular, they are formed integrally on the shell 124.

[0162] A support device 166 is formed via the columns 162, 164, which will be explained in more detail below.

[0163] In one embodiment, a holder 168 is arranged on each of the first column 162 and the second column 164, via which the liquid tank 38 can be suspended from the cleaning liquid tank 40 in the tank combination 36. Reference is made in this context to PCT / EP2023 / 052810. In this embodiment, the columns 162, 164 are multifunctional in that they form the support device 166 and have corresponding holders 168.

[0164] Apart from the columns 162, 164, the shell 124 is designed without any components in one embodiment.

[0165] In the illustrated embodiment (see, for example, Figure 9), the base 126 has a bulge 170. This bulge 170 forms a receptacle for the roller 144.

[0166] Furthermore, a bulge 172 is provided on the second wall part 140 and the base 126, which serves in particular as a handle for easier removal of the liquid tank 38 from the traveling body 14.

[0167] The cover device 146 has a first through-hole 174 and a second through-hole 176. These are spaced apart from one another in the direction parallel to the pivot axis 150. The first through-hole 174 is associated with the first column 162, and the second through-hole 176 is associated with the second column 164.

[0168] In an alternative embodiment, the recesses 174, 176 are not continuous and are formed, for example, like blind holes.

[0169] In the closed position 154 of the cover device 146, the first column 162 extends through the first continuous recess 174, and the second column 166 extends through the second continuous recess 176 (see Figure 3). As a result, an upper region of the respective column is accessible from an upper side of the liquid tank 38 in order to maintain the support function of the support device 166 outside the receiving space 130 and, in the illustrated embodiment, to additionally enable retention in the tank combination 36 in the cleaning liquid tank 40.

[0170] Each of the continuous recesses 174, 176 is assigned a sealing device 178 (see Figure 9). This sealing device 178 can be arranged circumferentially on the corresponding column 162 or 164, respectively, or additionally or alternatively, can be arranged circumferentially on the respective continuous recess 174, 176. In the illustrated embodiment, the respective sealing device 178 is arranged on the cover device 146 at the respective continuous recess 174 and 176.

[0171] When the lid device 146 is closed, the sealing device 178 (and 156) ensures a fluid-tight closure of the tray 124 to the lid device 146.

[0172] The shell 124 has a central plane 180 (see Figure 9). The central plane 180 is perpendicular to the pivot axis 150 and (notionally) divides the shell 124 into two regions. In particular, it is provided that the central plane 180 lies between the first column 162 and the second column 164. The columns 162, 164 are adjacent to the central plane 180 and, in particular, are closer to the central plane 180 than to an outer end 182 of the shell 124. The outer end 182 corresponds, in particular, to a region where the first wall part 138 and the second wall part 140 meet.

[0173] In one embodiment, a sensor device 184 is arranged on the cover device 146. The sensor device 184 serves, in particular, to determine the fill level of dirty fluid (liquid-containing dirty fluid) in the liquid tank 38. It can, for example, be capacitive or similar. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the sensor device 184 to also analyze dirty fluid within the receiving space 130, for example, to determine the degree of contamination of a surface to be cleaned.

[0174] The liquid tank 38 has an inlet device 186 for coupling dirty fluid into the receiving space 130 (in the closed position 154 of the cover device 146 and with the liquid tank 38 fixed to the traveling body 14).

[0175] In one embodiment, the inlet device 186 is arranged on the lid device 146.

[0176] In one embodiment, the inlet device 186 comprises a channel 188 positioned on an inner side of the cover device 146. The channel 188 is located in a region of the cover device 146 between the first continuous recess 174 and the second continuous recess 176. The channel 188 has an inlet 190 and an outlet 192. The channel 188 extends in a longitudinal direction 194 between the inlet 190 and the outlet 192. Dirt fluid coupled in via the inlet 190 can flow into the channel 188 and then pass from the outlet 192 into the receiving space 130.

[0177] The inlet 190 is fluidically connected to the traveling body 14 when the liquid tank is located on the traveling body 14 in order to be able to absorb corresponding dirty fluid.

[0178] The outlet 192 has a mouth normal 196 which, when the cover device 146 is closed, is oriented substantially perpendicular to the bottom 126 (parallel to the height direction 142).

[0179] Regarding the design and function of the channel 188, reference is made to PCT / EP2023 / 052810. A fixing device 198 is arranged on the cover device 146, via which the liquid tank 38 can be connected to the base head 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixing device 198 can be used to fix the liquid tank 38 to the cleaning fluid tank 40, which in turn can be fixed to the carriage 14.

[0180] In this embodiment, the liquid tank 38 is removable from the cleaning liquid tank 40, and the tank combination 36 with liquid tank 38 and cleaning liquid tank 40 can be removed as a combination from the traveling body 14.

[0181] However, it is also fundamentally possible for the liquid tank 38 to be fixed directly to the traveling body 14 via the corresponding fixing device 198.

[0182] The fixing device 198 is positioned on an outer side of the cover device 146, which faces away from the receiving space 130 when the cover device 146 is closed.

[0183] In one embodiment, the fixing device 198 comprises a locking button 200, which includes a corresponding latch. The locking button 200 can be used to establish a corresponding fixation (when held by the holders 168) and then release it by operator intervention.

[0184] The locking button 200 is positioned on the cover device 146 in an area between the through recesses 174 and 176.

[0185] A handle 202 is movably mounted on the lid assembly 146. In one embodiment, the handle 202 is pivotally connected to the lid assembly 146 via a handle pivot bearing 204 (see, for example, Figure 5) about a pivot axis 206. In one embodiment, the pivot axis 206 is parallel to the pivot axis 150 of the lid pivot bearing 148.

[0186] The pivot axis 206 is spaced from the pivot axis 150.

[0187] In one embodiment, the handle pivot bearing 204 is located closer to the second end 134 of the shell 124 than to the first end 132 (in the closed position 154 of the lid assembly 146).

[0188] The handle 202 has a basic position 208 (Figures 3 to 5) in which it is applied to the cover device 146.

[0189] The home position 208 of the handle 202 is a position in which the handle 202 is located when the cover device 146 is closed and the liquid tank 38 is properly fixed to the traveling body 14.

[0190] A spring device 210 (see Figure 10) is associated with the handle 202, which exerts a spring force on the handle 202. The spring device 210 is designed such that the spring force tends to move the handle 202 into the home position 208. In order to pivot the handle 202 out of the home position 208, the spring force of the spring device 210 must be overcome (among other things).

[0191] In one embodiment, the spring device 210 comprises one or more leg springs.

[0192] In one embodiment, the handle 202 is designed as a bow handle with a bow 212. The bow 212 comprises a first bow element 214, which is pivotally connected to the lid assembly 146 about the pivot axis 206 via the handle pivot bearing 204. The bow 212 further comprises a second bow element 216, which is spaced from the first bow element 214 in a direction parallel to the pivot axis 206 and is aligned parallel to the latter. The second bow element 216 is also pivotally connected to the lid assembly 146 about the pivot axis 206 via the handle pivot bearing 204 and, like the first bow element 214, is pivotally connected to the lid assembly 146 outside the receiving space 130 (in the closed position 154), i.e., is pivotally connected to an upper side of the lid assembly 146.

[0193] The first bracket element 214 and the second bracket element 216 are connected to each other via a third bracket element 218. The third bracket element 218 forms a bridge between the first bracket element 214 and the second bracket element 216. It is oriented, for example, parallel to the pivot axis 206.

[0194] The locking button 200 is arranged between the first bracket element 214 and the second bracket element 216.

[0195] In one embodiment, the bracket 212 is configured such that the third bracket element 218 is located in the region of the second end 134 (relative to the closed position 154), that is, it is closer to the second end 134 than the handle pivot bearing 204.

[0196] An operating device 220 is arranged on the handle 202, which is connected to the handle 202 in a rotationally fixed manner and can be pivoted therewith about the pivot axis 206. The operating device 220 cooperates with the support device 166 and is guided thereon.

[0197] The columns 162, 164 have a contact surface 222 for the active device 220. The active device 220 is slidably guided on this contact surface 222, or the contact surface 222 forms a guideway for the active device 220 and thus also for the handle 202. In one embodiment, the active device 220 comprises at least one cam. In the embodiment shown, a first cam 224 is arranged on the first bracket element 214 (see Figure 5), and a second cam 226 is arranged accordingly on the second bracket element 216.

[0198] The first cam 224 lies in the first through-hole 174, the second cam 226 lies in the second through-hole 176.

[0199] The first cam 224 acts on the first column 162, the second cam 226 acts on the second column 164. The cams 224, 226 are arranged and designed with the corresponding contact surfaces 222 on the columns 162, 164 so that they act synchronously.

[0200] The handle 202 is designed as a pull handle and serves to open the lid device 146.

[0201] The handle 202 acts with the action device 220 on the support device 166 of the shell 124. The design is such that by pivoting the handle 202, an easier opening of the lid device 146 from the closed position 154 is achieved and, in particular, excessive sloshing of liquid in the receiving space 130 is avoided.

[0202] The liquid tank 38 works as follows:

[0203] During wet cleaning, liquid-laden dirty fluid is injected into the receiving chamber 130. The injection can be fan-free, with the dirty fluid being scraped off the cleaning roller 28 by the scraping element 116 and directly injected into the fluid tank 38. The injection can alternatively be achieved via a suction flow or can be fan-assisted. After the cleaning process is completed, the fluid tank 38 must be emptied and, if necessary, cleaned.

[0204] For this purpose, it is removed from the base head 14.

[0205] This corresponding state is shown in Figure 3. The lid device 146 is in the closed position 154, and the handle 202 is in its home position 208.

[0206] Corresponding sections of the liquid tank 38 are also shown in Figures 4 and 5.

[0207] An operator then pivots the handle 202 away from the lid device 146 about the pivot axis 206. As a result, the operating device 220 acts on the support device 166. The cams 224, 226 slide on the corresponding contact surfaces 22 of the columns 162, 164 (see Figures 5, 6). As a result, the lid device 146 is pivoted in a defined manner about the pivot axis 150 and opened. The opening process via the handle 202 by pivoting away from the lid device 146 is defined and is a type of gentle opening. The frictional force of the sealing device 178 is overcome; the force of the frictional connection of the fixed lid device 146 in the closed position 154 is overcome in a defined manner.

[0208] The handle 202 with the operating device 220 forms a lever for the defined pivoting lifting of the lid device 146 on the tray 124.

[0209] This prevents a sudden opening, which can lead to sloshing of liquid in the liquid tank 38.

[0210] The inventive solution achieves a defined opening process of the lid device 146 starting from the closed position 154. The handle 202, particularly with its design as a bracket 212, is designed as a pull handle. An operator can pull it and, after the initial opening process, further open the lid device 146 by pivoting it about the pivot axis 150.

[0211] When a certain pivot angle is reached, the active device 220 lifts off the support device 166; the cams 224, 226 are no longer in contact with the corresponding contact surfaces 222 of the columns 162, 164. See Figure 8.

[0212] The lid device 146 can be opened further. It is particularly provided that an opening angle starting from the closed position 154, which is defined as the zero-angle position, is at least 90°, preferably at least 140°, and preferably at least 180°, and for example, exactly 180°.

[0213] A corresponding example is shown in Figure 9. There, the lid device 146 is fully open. This allows for easy emptying of the liquid tank 38, which can be easily cleaned, for example, under a faucet.

[0214] When an operator releases the handle 202, it returns to the home position 208 due to the action of the spring device 210 (see Figure 10).

[0215] When the lid device 146 is then pivoted back, i.e., when the liquid tank 38 is to be closed, the operating device 220 does not hinder the closing process, since, accordingly, no sliding of the operating device 220 occurs on the corresponding contact surfaces 222 until the closed position 154. These are, to a certain extent, rendered ineffective upon pivoting back. As mentioned above, in the closed position 154, contact of the operating device 220 with the contact surfaces 222 can, in principle, form a stop (toward the base 126) for a defined closed position 154.

[0216] The solution according to the invention is particularly advantageous when the liquid tank 38 has a relatively small height in the vertical direction 142, for example, 20 cm or less. In this case, the risk of contaminated liquid spilling out upon opening is particularly high.

[0217] In the solution according to the invention, the lid device 146 is pivotally connected to the shell 124 via the lid pivot bearing 148. The connection can be detachable or non-detachable. In principle, the lid device 146 can remain permanently connected to the shell 124.

[0218] The solution according to the invention achieves a controlled opening of the liquid tank 38. This largely eliminates the risk of generating a jerk when opening the lid device 146, which could lead to liquid spilling out of the (open) receiving space 130. This is particularly advantageous when the liquid tank 38 is flat with relatively small dimensions in the vertical direction 142.

[0219] This provides an operator with a simple and "clean" operation regarding emptying of the liquid tank 38.

[0220] An embodiment of a liquid tank 38 according to the invention was described above in connection with a cleaning robot. A corresponding liquid tank can also be used on other cleaning machines, such as hand-guided and / or hand-held cleaning machines, and also on other types. The injection of dirty fluid (containing liquid) into the receiving space of the liquid tank can take place without a fan, by means of a suction flow, or with fan assistance. A liquid tank according to the invention is advantageously used in connection with a wet cleaning device, such as a wet mop. However, it is also fundamentally possible for the injected liquid not to originate from the device itself, but rather to be provided externally.

[0221] List of reference symbols

[0222] Floor cleaning device

[0223] Ground head

[0224] Floor to be cleaned on the vehicle body

[0225] Wheels a Wheel b Wheel

[0226] wheel axle

[0227] Support roller

[0228] axis of rotation

[0229] axis

[0230] Main direction of travel

[0231] Installation level

[0232] cleaning roller

[0233] Navigation device

[0234] Front end

[0235] Rear end

[0236] Tank combination

[0237] Dirty fluid tank

[0238] Cleaning fluid tank

[0239] bottom

[0240] Top

[0241] wall

[0242] Impact body

[0243] center

[0244] Altitude direction

[0245] Cliff sensor

[0246] Battery compartment

[0247] Cover sensor

[0248] Charging contact Outer contour First chord Second chord Receiving shaft Longitudinal direction Wall

[0249] opening

[0250] First lateral side Second lateral side Side wall opening

[0251] Drive motor Drive shaft Rotation axis First pivot bearing Cassette

[0252] Lid

[0253] Locking device Release button Second pivot bearing Carrier

[0254] Cleaning medium Humidification device Wiper element

[0255] inlet

[0256] Sweeping device top

[0257] Peel

[0258] Floor Wall Receiving space First end Second end First wall part

[0259] Rounding area of ​​the second wall part

[0260] Altitude direction

[0261] role

[0262] Lid device

[0263] Lid pivot bearing

[0264] Swivel axis

[0265] Inside closed position

[0266] Sealing device

[0267] Radial component

[0268] Stop first column second column

[0269] Support device

[0270] holder

[0271] bulge

[0272] Bulge first continuous recess second continuous recess sealing device

[0273] Middle plane outer end

[0274] Sensor device

[0275] Inlet device

[0276] channel

[0277] inlet

[0278] Outlet

[0279] Longitudinal direction

[0280] Muzzle standard fixing device locking button handle

[0281] Handle pivot bearing Pivot axis Basic position Spring device Bracket First bracket element Second bracket element Third bracket element Active device Contact surface First cam Second cam

Claims

Patent claims 1. A liquid tank for a cleaning machine (10), comprising a tray (124) with a receiving space (130), a lid device (146) which is positioned on the tray (124) and closes the receiving space (130), wherein the lid device (146) is openable, and a sealing device (156) which is seated on the tray (124) and / or the lid device (146) and, when the lid device (146) is closed, ensures a fluid-tight seal between the lid device (146) and the tray (124), characterized in that the lid device (146) is pivotally connected to the tray (124) about a lid pivot axis (150), that a movable handle (202) is arranged on the lid device (146), which has a basic position (208) when the lid device (146) is closed, and that an operating device (220) and a support device (166) for the active device (220) is arranged on the shell (124),wherein, when the lid device (146) is in the closed position (154) and the handle (202) is moved out of the basic position (208), the operating device (220) is supported on the support device (166) and causes the lid device (146) to pivot out of the closed position (154) about the lid pivot axis (150).

2. Liquid tank according to claim 1, characterized in that the support device (166) comprises at least one column (162, 164) with a contact surface (222) for the active device (220), wherein in particular the contact surface (222) forms a guide track for the handle (202) and / or forms a sliding surface for the active device (220).

3. Liquid tank according to claim 2, characterized by at least one of the following: - the at least one column (162, 164) is located on a bottom (126) of the tray (124), wherein when the lid device (146) is closed, it is positioned opposite the bottom (126); - the at least one column (162, 164) extends in a height direction (142) away from a bottom (126) of the shell (124); - a plurality of spaced columns (162, 164) are provided and in particular exactly two columns (162, 164) are provided.

4. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one recess (174, 176) for the support device (166) on the shell (124) is arranged on the cover device (146).

5. Liquid tank for a cleaning machine according to claim 4, characterized by at least one of the following: - at least when the cover device (146) is closed, at least one column (162, 164) and in particular exactly one column (162; 164) of the support device (166) is positioned in a corresponding recess (174; 176); - a sealing device (178) is provided which, when the cover device (146) is closed, ensures a fluid-tight seal between the support device (166) and the cover device (146) at the at least one recess (174; 176); - a sealing device (178) is arranged on the at least one recess (174; 176) and / or on at least one column (162; 164) of the support device (166); - the active device (220) acts on the support device (166) at the at least one recess (174; 176).

6. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the acting device (220) comprises at least one cam (224, 226) which acts on the support device (166).

7. Liquid tank according to claim 6, characterized by at least one of the following: - a plurality of spaced cams (224, 226) are provided; - one and in particular exactly one cam (224; 226) is assigned to a column (162; 164) and in particular exactly one column (162; 164) of the support device (166) and can be supported on this.

8. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the following: - starting from the basic position (208) of the handle (202) and the closed position (154) of the lid device (146), the active device (220) is supported on the support device (166) when the handle (202) is moved up to a specific pivot angle of the lid device (146) about the lid pivot axis (150); after the specific pivot angle is exceeded, the active device (220) is spaced from the support device (166) and no longer acts on it.

9. Liquid tank according to claim 8, characterized in that the sealing device (156) is arranged on the lid device (146) and is moved when the handle (202) is moved, which leads to a pivoting of the lid device (146).

10. Liquid tank according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the active device (220) is adapted to the support device (166) in such a way that when the lid device (146) is opened by moving the handle (202), a frictional force of the sealing device (156) is overcome.

11. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle (202) is pivotally movable about at least one pivot axis (206) on the lid device (146).

12. Liquid tank according to claim 11, characterized in that a stop is arranged on the lid device (146), which forms a pivoting angle limitation of the handle (202) away from the lid device (146).

13. Liquid tank according to claim 11 or 12, characterized by at least one of the following: - the handle pivot axis (206) is spaced from the lid pivot axis (150); - the handle pivot axis (206) is parallel to the lid pivot axis (150); the handle pivot axis (206) is oriented transversely to a vertical extension direction (142) of the support device (166).

14. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one of the following: - the handle (202) is designed as a pulling device for an operator to pull on the lid device (146); - the handle (202) with the operating device (220) is designed as a lever.

15. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle (202) is designed as a bow handle (212), in particular with at least one of the following: - the handle (202) comprises a first bracket element (214), a second bracket element (216) spaced from the first bracket element (214), and a third bracket element (218) which is connected to the first bracket element (214) and to the second bracket element (216), wherein the handle (202) is movably mounted on the cover device (146) via the first bracket element (214) and the second bracket element (216); - a first cam (224) of the active device (220) is seated on the first bracket element (214) and a second cam (226) of the active device (220) is seated on the second bracket element (216); - a bracket (212) of the handle surrounds a locking button (200) of the liquid tank.

16. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle (202) is positioned at a fixing area for fixing the liquid tank to the cleaning machine.

17. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle (202) is assigned a spring device (210) which exerts a spring force on the handle (202), wherein the spring force strives to bring the handle (202) into the basic position (208).

18. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tray (124) has a first end (132) and an opposite second end (134), wherein a spacing direction between the first end (132) and the second end (134) is perpendicular to the lid pivot axis (150), that a lid pivot bearing (148) for the pivotability of the lid device (146) about the lid pivot axis (150) is located in the region of the first end (132), and that the handle (202) is positioned closer to the second end (134) than the lid pivot bearing (148).

19. Liquid tank according to claim 18, characterized by at least one of the following: - when the liquid tank is fixed to the cleaning machine, the second end (134) of the liquid tank lies on an outer contour of the cleaning machine or is closer to an outer contour of the cleaning machine than the first end (132); - at the first end (132) the shell (124) is straight.

20. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a maximum pivot angle of the lid device (146) to the tray (124) starting from a closed lid device (146) is at least 90°, preferably at least 120°, preferably at least 150° and preferably at least 175° and preferably approximately 180°.

21. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one of the following: - the sealing device (156) between the shell (124) and the lid device (146) is arranged circumferentially on the lid device (146) and / or on the shell (124); - the sealing device (156) comprises a radial seal; - in the closed position (154) of the lid device (146), the lid device (146) is fixed to the shell (124) by means of frictional engagement, wherein in particular the sealing device (156) contributes to the frictional engagement.

22. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an inlet device (186) for coupling liquid into the receiving space (130) is arranged on the cover device (146).

23. Liquid tank according to claim 22, characterized in that at least one channel (188) is arranged on the cover device (146), which channel has an inlet for liquid (190) and an outlet for liquid (192), wherein the outlet opens into the receiving space (130).

24. Liquid tank according to claim 23, characterized in that the outlet (192) has a mouth normal which, when the lid is closed, is oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to a bottom (126) of the tray (124).

25. Liquid tank according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that the at least one channel (188) is oriented at an acute angle to the lid pivot axis (150) with respect to a longitudinal direction (194), wherein in particular the acute angle lies in the range between 30° and 60°.

26. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a sensor device (184) is arranged on the cover device (146).

27. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tray (124) has a height which is at most as large as a width of the tray (124) perpendicular to the height and in particular the height is at most 50% of the width.

28. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a design as a unit (38) which is removable from the cleaning machine.

29. Liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a design as a dirty fluid tank (38).

30. Cleaning machine comprising at least one cleaning tool (28) and at least one liquid tank according to one of the preceding claims.

31. Cleaning machine according to claim 30, characterized by a cleaning head (12) on which the at least one cleaning tool (28) is arranged, wherein the at least one liquid tank (38) is removably positioned on the cleaning head (12).

32. Cleaning machine according to claim 30 or 31, characterized by a design as a surface cleaning machine and in particular a floor cleaning machine.

33. Cleaning machine according to one of claims 30 to 32, characterized by a design as (i) a hand-held and / or hand-guided cleaning machine, or (ii) as a self-propelled and self-steering cleaning machine.

34. Cleaning machine according to one of claims 30 to 33, characterized by a design as a wet cleaning machine, wherein the at least one liquid tank (38) serves to hold liquid-containing dirty fluid.

35. Cleaning machine according to one of claims 30 to 34, characterized by a moistening device (114) by means of which the at least one cleaning tool (28) and / or a surface to be cleaned (16) can be exposed to a cleaning liquid.

36. Cleaning machine according to one of claims 30 to 35, characterized by at least one driven roller (28) as a cleaning tool.

37. Use of a liquid tank according to one of claims 1 to 29 on a floor cleaning machine which is (i) self-propelled and self-steering, or (ii) which is hand-guided and / or hand-held.

Images