Device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner, and holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag

Abstract

The invention relates to an device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner. The device comprises a holding plate receiving area for receiving a holding plate of the vacuum cleaner filter bag on a bearing surface of the holding plate receiving area and a closing element which can be pivoted between an open position and a closed position, said closing element comprising a latching hook. In a closed position of the closing element, the latching hook latches on a holding plate received on the holding plate receiving area such that the closing element is held in the closed position by the latching hook, and the closing element comprises, on the side facing the holding plate receiving area, an engagement element which is designed to engage with a projection or a cutout*** in the holding plate such that the closing element, in the closed position thereof, holds the holding plate, which is received by the holding plate receiving area, in a specified position.

Description

[0001] Device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner and holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag

[0002] The present invention relates to a device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner and a holding plate of a vacuum cleaner filter bag which is designed for use in the device.

[0003] Conventional vacuum cleaner filter bags typically comprise an air-filtering filter medium and a retaining plate connected to the filter medium for connecting the filter bag to the vacuum cleaner. The retaining plate contains an opening through which the air stream, laden with dust and dirt, is drawn into the filter bag during vacuuming. To ensure proper operation of the vacuum cleaner, the vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner filter bag should be compatible. For example, the filter bag must be the correct size to achieve optimal use of space within the vacuum cleaner's dust collection chamber and optimal dust and dirt absorption capacity. To this end, manufacturers are increasingly ensuring that vacuum cleaners can only be operated with filter bags specifically designed for that vacuum cleaner.

[0004] EP 2 744 383 A1 discloses a holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag, which has a key formed on one side and a concave recess on the outer lateral edge section on the opposite side. In an installed position, a spring on the device presses laterally into the concave recess of the holding plate, so that the key is pressed against a correspondingly designed lock in the housing of the stick vacuum cleaner. A positive engagement takes place between the key and lock, so that the holding plate is held in position. By coding the holding plate with a key that must fit the device-side lock, it is avoided that a filter bag that is not suitable for the vacuum cleaner is used.

[0005] Changing a vacuum cleaner bag with these characteristics requires many, sometimes complicated, steps. For example, when inserting a new, empty filter bag, the retaining plate must first be carefully pushed into a narrow slot in a retaining plate holder. Furthermore, the retaining plate can easily become jammed during removal due to the spring force acting only on one side and sideways.

[0006] In view of this, it is an object of the present invention to provide a device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner, as well as an associated holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag, which prevent a possible tilting of the holding plate and simplify handling.

[0007] This object is achieved by the device according to claim 1 and the holding plate according to claim 7. Further aspects can be found in the respective subclaims.

[0008] According to the invention, a device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner is provided.The device comprises a holding plate receptacle for receiving a holding plate of the vacuum cleaner filter bag on a support surface of the holding plate receptacle, and a closing element which can be pivoted between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closing element comprises a latching hook, wherein the latching hook is designed to latch, in a closed position of the closing element, onto a holding plate received on the holding plate receptacle, so that the closing element is held in the closed position, and wherein the closing element comprises, on a side facing the holding plate receptacle, an engagement element which is designed to be engaged with a key portion of the holding plate, so that the closing element, in its closed position, holds the holding plate received by the holding plate receptacle in a predetermined position.

[0009] These features make handling easier for the vacuum cleaner user, especially when inserting and removing the vacuum cleaner filter bag, because the holding plate cannot become jammed. It is sufficient to place the holding plate of the vacuum cleaner filter bag onto the holding plate holder instead of having to push it into a narrow slot. The engagement element, which engages with a key section of the holding plate, holds the holding plate on the holding plate holder in a predetermined position when the locking element is in the closed position. In this sense, the engagement element forms the lock, which can be engaged with the key section of the holding plate. If necessary, the holding plate only needs to be moved slightly so that it engages cleanly with the engagement element.Furthermore, the force holding the retaining plate in its specified position isn't applied sideways, preventing it from jamming. When removing the vacuum cleaner filter bag, it can be easily lifted out of the vacuum cleaner without the risk of jamming or having to be threaded out of a slot-like slot.

[0010] The retaining plate holder serves to hold the retaining plate. The retaining plate holder has a support surface that accommodates the retaining plate, for example, by placing the retaining plate on the support surface. The support surface can be a flat surface. This allows the retaining plate holder to be designed simply. The retaining plate can be placed onto the retaining plate holder from above and removed again in the opposite direction. A retaining plate held by the retaining plate holder rests on the support surface of the retaining plate holder.

[0011] Even if the retaining plate holder has a structure, the support surface can still be considered a plane if a flat retaining plate rests / is arranged on the support surface. For example, the support surface can be the plane spanned by the contact points between the retaining plate and the retaining plate holder.

[0012] The locking element can be pivoted between an open and a closed position. Thus, the locking element can have a pivot axis. The pivot axis can be located in the plane of the support surface of the retaining plate holder. Alternatively, the pivot axis can be arranged above the support surface of the retaining plate holder.

[0013] A locking hook (also known as a snap hook) is an element for the positive connection of components. A locking hook can comprise a joining part that can be brought into engagement with the component to be connected and creates the locking connection. For example, the joining part can be a projection on the locking hook that is designed to engage with the other component. The locking hook can be elastic, so that it deforms when pressed against the retaining plate. A joining part of the locking hook then locks with the retaining plate, thus creating the positive connection. The locking connection can be reversible, in that the positive connection between the retaining plate and the locking hook can be released.

[0014] The engagement element, which is formed on or in the locking element, is designed to hold the holding plate in the predetermined position when the locking element is in the closed position. For this purpose, the engagement element is engaged with the key portion of the holding plate. Possible configurations of the engagement element and the holding plate are mentioned below. The holding plate and the engagement element can engage or be engaged in a form-fitting manner. Alternatively, the engagement can allow freedom of movement so that the holding plate remains movable (slidable) on the holding plate receptacle. This can be achieved, for example, by leaving a gap between the engagement element and the key portion when the two elements are engaged.

[0015] The terms "interlock" and "engage" are synonymous within the context of this description. The specified position is the position on the retaining plate holder in which the retaining plate must be positioned for the vacuum cleaner to operate as intended. Specifically, this means that the dust-laden air guided through a suction hose and / or suction nozzle is directed through an opening in the retaining plate into the vacuum cleaner filter bag. In this case, the opening in the retaining plate is positioned corresponding to the suction hose or an associated suction nozzle.

[0016] The retaining plate holder can further comprise a bearing element configured to hold the retaining plate against movement perpendicular to the support surface of the retaining plate holder. The bearing element can also be configured to hold the retaining plate against lateral movement on the retaining plate holder parallel to the support surface.

[0017] In other words, the bearing element can be configured to hold / secure the retaining plate against movement perpendicular to the support surface and to hold / secure it against movement parallel to the support surface. Thus, the bearing element restricts movement of the retaining plate at least along two axes. These two axes are, incidentally, perpendicular to each other.

[0018] For improved stability, when locking the locking element and the retaining plate, it is advisable to secure the retaining plate against any lateral or sideways movement on the retaining plate holder and / or against removal from the retaining plate holder. Furthermore, the bearing element defines the predefined position of the retaining plate on the retaining plate holder, thus providing the user with guidance on how to insert the retaining plate. This simplifies correct handling for the user and prevents any incorrect insertion of the retaining plate.

[0019] The bearing element can be a rigid component of the retaining plate holder. Alternatively, the bearing element can be a flexible component of the retaining plate holder and can, for example, be pivoted into its intended storage position, in which the retaining plate is fixed, when the retaining plate is arranged on the retaining plate holder.

[0020] The advantage of this arrangement of the bearing element is that the retaining plate can be placed freely on the retaining plate holder without being obstructed by the bearing element. This further increases user comfort.

[0021] The device can further comprise a spring element that exerts a spring force that presses the closing element towards the open position. Alternatively, the spring element can exert a force that counteracts a holding force of the locking hook. If the locking hook is not locked to the retaining plate, the spring force ultimately causes the closing element to be pushed into the open position or at least towards the open position. If the locking hook is locked to the retaining plate, the locking element is held in the closed position by the locking mechanism against the spring force. For this purpose, the retaining plate is fixed accordingly by the bearing element so that the retaining plate is not lifted from the retaining plate receptacle by the spring force.

[0022] The spring element may comprise a leg spring, a torsion spring, a roller spring, a coil spring, a wheel spring, a bow spring, a bar spring or a leaf spring or may include a combination of the aforementioned spring types.

[0023] The spring element can be attached to the retaining plate holder and / or the locking element. Alternatively, the spring element can also be attached to another component, such as a housing of the vacuum cleaner. In the embodiment of a leg spring, the center of the leg spring can be located on the pivot axis of the locking element. One of the two legs of the leg spring presses against the locking element, while the other leg presses against the retaining plate holder or the housing.

[0024] When the locking mechanism between the locking element and the retaining plate is released, the locking element opens automatically due to the spring force and does not require a separate handling step by the user. This simplifies the use of the device.

[0025] The engagement element can comprise one or both of the following configurations. The engagement element can comprise a projection that engages with a recess in the retaining plate when the closure element is in the closed position. The engagement element can comprise a clip that engages a projection in the retaining plate when the closure element is in the closed position. The second configuration can also mean that the clip partially abuts the projection in the retaining plate when the closure element is in the closed position.

[0026] All of the options mentioned ensure secure holding of the retaining plate in the specified position through the interlocking of the engagement element and the projection / recess in the retaining plate. Furthermore, a positive fit can be achieved in this way. This retaining principle is applicable, on the one hand, for a flexible design of the retaining plate, and, on the other hand, the retaining plate and engagement element can be specifically matched to one another. This latter point allows for so-called coding, whereby those retaining plates can be used together with the device that feature this interlocking through a specific pattern of projections and recesses.

[0027] The engagement element may comprise a plurality of projections and / or clips. In particular, the respective number may correspond to the number of projections and recesses in the retaining plate.

[0028] The locking element can further comprise two locking hooks (a first locking hook and a second locking hook) arranged such that they engage on different sides of the retaining plate. This can also mean that the two locking hooks are arranged on different, in particular opposite, sides of the locking element.

[0029] By having a second locking hook that engages with the retaining plate, the load on each individual locking hook is reduced, increasing the stability and reliability of the device. Damage to one locking hook is less likely, and in the event of damage, a second locking hook is available. If the retaining plate is locked on different sides of the retaining plate, one-sided loading of the retaining plate due to a one-sided pull of the locking hook is also avoided, because the force of the locking hook acts symmetrically on the retaining plate and not on one side. This also improves the stability of the device.

[0030] The device can also comprise a stop element, which is part of the locking element and is designed such that abutment of the retaining plate against the stop element leads to a pivoting of the locking element from the open position toward the closed position. In a preferred embodiment, abutment of the retaining plate against the stop element can also lead to a complete pivoting of the locking element into the closed position. In this case, the locking hook can also be locked to the retaining plate. In particular, the stop element can be part of the locking element.

[0031] The stop element can serve as an indicator that the holding plate is in the specified position on the holding plate holder. The user can easily see that the holding plate has been inserted correctly by the triggered pivoting of the locking element. This ensures correct use of the vacuum cleaner by reliably inserting the holding plate into the correct / specified position. In addition, in order to hold the holding plate in the specified position, the locking element must be pivoted into the closed position. This can happen at least partially automatically with the help of the stop element. In a preferred embodiment, it is also possible for the stop element to pivot completely into the closed position when the user moves the holding plate into the specified position, which improves comfort for the user and makes handling the device easier.

[0032] The following describes a holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag, as it can be used in the device explained above.

[0033] The present invention relates to a holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag, which is designed to be held by one of the devices described above. The holding plate comprises a latching hook bearing portion formed in a first edge portion of the holding plate, and a first key portion formed in the first edge portion, wherein the latching hook bearing portion is designed to cooperate with the latching hook of the closing element so that the closing element latches with the latching hook bearing portion in the closed position, and wherein the first key portion is designed to cooperate with the engagement element so that the holding plate is held in the predetermined position when the closing element is in the closed position.

[0034] The retaining plate can be configured to be received in the retaining plate receptacle of the devices described above. Furthermore, the retaining plate can be configured to interact with the locking element of the device such that the latching hook engages with the latching hook bearing portion, and to interact with the engagement element such that the first key portion, together with the engagement element, secures the retaining plate in the predetermined position. The engagement element can be engaged with the first key portion.

[0035] Furthermore, coding can be implemented using the described shape of the holding plate. The latching hook bearing section and the first key section ensure that the holding plate and the locking element of the device only interact in the manner described if the key section is aligned with the engagement element and the latching hook bearing section is aligned with the position of the latching hook. Otherwise, the locking element cannot be moved into the closed position because, for example, the holding plate and the locking element might block each other. In addition, there must be a locking connection between the latching hook and the holding plate on the latching hook bearing section. If these two elements are not aligned, locking cannot occur, and the locking element is therefore not properly held in the closed position.This effect is even more pronounced if the device also has a spring element as described, because the locking element is then always pivoted into the open position.

[0036] This ensures that the vacuum cleaner is only used in combination with a designated vacuum cleaner filter bag that has a retaining plate designed for the device. If the incorrect retaining plate is used, the locking element cannot be properly closed.

[0037] The retaining plate may further comprise a second key portion formed in a second edge portion of the retaining plate, wherein the first edge portion is opposite the second edge portion, and wherein the second key portion is configured to cooperate with the engagement element such that the retaining plate is held in the predetermined position when the closure element is in the closed position. The engagement element can be engaged with the second key portion.

[0038] Key sections formed in both edge sections also allow engagement with the locking element at both edge sections. This improves the stability of the retaining plate on the retaining plate holder.

[0039] The retaining plate may further comprise a latching hook release portion which is adjacent to the latching hook bearing portion and also formed in the first edge portion of the retaining plate, wherein the latching hook release portion is configured to release the latching hook because no latching with the latching hook takes place.

[0040] A width of the locking hook bearing section can correspond to a width or length of the locking hook. In particular, the width of the locking hook bearing section can correspond to a width or length of the joining part of the locking hook.

[0041] The positive connection between the locking hook and the retaining plate (or the locking hook bearing section) becomes releasable in this way, in particular reversibly releasable. Since the locking hook bearing section and the locking hook release section are adjacent, i.e. are arranged next to one another in the first edge section of the retaining plate, a displacement of the retaining plate results in the locking hook no longer being locked to the locking hook bearing section, but being released at the locking hook release section. Consequently, the locking connection can be released by a displacement of the retaining plate. Since the locking hook bearing section and the locking hook release section are adjacent, even a slight displacement is sufficient. Such a slight displacement can in particular correspond to a width or length of the locking hook or its joining part.For a user, this simplifies the handling of the holding plate and device, as the locking mechanism can be achieved simply by slightly moving the holding plate.

[0042] The first key portion and the second key portion may comprise a plurality of projections, as well as recesses arranged between two adjacent projections. In particular, each of the key portions may comprise two, three, four, or more projections. Accordingly, each key element may comprise one, two, three, or more recesses. In this sense, the first and second key portions correspond to the previously introduced projection and / or the previously introduced recess used to define the engagement element. In other words, the engagement element engages with the first key portion, or the first key portion and the second key portion of the retaining plate.

[0043] The projections and recesses ensure a secure interlock between the engagement element and the key sections. Furthermore, the interlocking makes the holder more stable when a plurality of projections and recesses are involved. A higher number of projections can contribute to improved stability of the holder in the described device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag.

[0044] The projections can have a substantially rectangular or trapezoidal shape. These shapes are well suited to being gripped by a clamp of the engagement element, thus improving the stability of the mount.

[0045] The individual projections of the key sections can be of identical design. The individual projections can be of different design in terms of their shape and / or size. The spacing between adjacent projections, where the spacing is determined by the width of the corresponding recesses, can also be of the same or different design in one or both key sections.

[0046] The projections of the first key portion and the second key portion may be elastic.

[0047] This feature is advantageous when there is a positive fit between the engagement element and the key sections when the locking element is in the closed position. A positive fit per se no longer allows any displacement of the retaining plate on the retaining plate receptacle. However, if the projections that mesh with the engagement element are elastic, a (minor) displacement of the retaining plate can still occur without affecting the positive fit. This displacement can already be sufficient to release the locking of the locking hook on the retaining plate by the locking hook moving into the area of ​​the locking hook release section, so that the locking element can be moved into the open position and the positive fit is released.

[0048] The retaining plate may be mirror-symmetrical with respect to the first key portion and the second key portion.

[0049] The first key section or the first key section and the second key section can be arranged at one end or termination of the first (second) edge section. The locking hook bearing section can be arranged in the respective edge section spatially separated from the associated key section.

[0050] A further latching hook bearing section can be formed in the second edge section of the retaining plate. In particular, a further latching hook release section is formed adjacent to the further latching hook bearing section. Not only can the first key section and the second key section be congruent, this can also apply to the latching hook bearing section and the further latching hook bearing section, as well as the latching hook release section and the further latching hook release section. Optionally, the first edge section of the retaining plate and the second edge section of the retaining plate are congruent. In a preferred embodiment, the retaining plate can be mirror-symmetrical with respect to the first edge section and the second edge section.

[0051] As explained with regard to the key sections, the use of a second locking hook also ensures that the locking hook's holding force is better distributed and one-sided loading of the retaining plate is reduced. This is especially true when the locking hooks engage at different edge sections. In this case, the locking hook's holding force is not one-sided. A further advantage is that even if one locking hook is damaged, the retaining plate and device can still be used with the second / additional locking hook.

[0052] The retaining plate may be symmetrical with respect to a plane parallel to a thickness direction of the retaining plate.

[0053] The holding plate may further comprise a grip portion at which the holding plate has a local thickening.

[0054] As previously explained, the locking mechanism between the retaining plate and the locking hook of the locking element can be released by sliding it. To do so, the user can easily grasp the retaining plate at the handle section and pull accordingly. The local thickening provides the user with a good grip on the retaining plate.

[0055] The retaining plate can be made from recycled and / or renewable raw materials. Recycled materials include, for example, reused (recycled) plastic. Renewable raw materials include, in particular, paper, cardboard, hay, or other plant-based materials. Examples of recycled plastic are recycled polypropylene (rPP), recycled polyethylene (rPE), recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), or mixtures thereof. In particular, recycled plastics can be made according to one or more of the DIN standards EN 15342:2008-02, EN 15344:2008-02, EN 15345:2008-02, or EN 15346:2015-01.

[0056] Vacuum cleaner filter bags, including the retaining plate, can be disposable. They can be designed to be disposed of after use when full. Therefore, for sustainability reasons, it is advantageous to make at least the retaining plate from one of the materials mentioned.

[0057] The present invention also relates to a vacuum cleaner filter bag comprising a filter medium, in particular comprising a nonwoven fabric, and a retaining plate firmly connected to the filter medium, wherein the retaining plate is a previously described retaining plate. The connection between the retaining plate and the filter medium can be airtight. The connection can be an adhesive connection, a clamp connection, or a welded connection. The vacuum cleaner filter bag can be a flat bag.

[0058] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner comprising a housing with a lid and the described device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag, wherein the device is arranged in a dust collection chamber of the vacuum cleaner, wherein the lid is pivotally attached to the housing and is provided for closing the dust collection chamber, wherein the lid of the housing is closable when the closing element is in the closed position, and wherein the lid of the housing is not closable when the closing element is in the open position.

[0059] The locking element in the open position prevents the housing lid from being closed. For example, the lid can be a pivoting part of the housing that locks into place with the rest of the housing to close it. The locking element in the open position can block the pivoting of the lid by protruding from the housing in the open position, preventing the lid from locking into place with the rest of the housing. The locking element remains in the open position if a spring element is provided and no retaining plate is arranged on the retaining plate holder. This is because the locking hook cannot rust and the spring force pushes the locking element towards the open position. If, as a result, the lid cannot be closed and remains open, however, no suction can take place because the vacuum cleaner draws ambient air into the fan through the open lid and achieves no suction.This effectively prevents damage to the vacuum cleaner caused by vacuuming without a vacuum cleaner filter bag, which can be caused in particular by dust and dirt getting into the fan.

[0060] A described holding plate can be arranged on the holding plate receptacle of the device, which is arranged in the dust collection chamber of the vacuum cleaner, wherein the holding plate can be moved away from a pivot axis of the closing element by not more than 2 mm, in particular not more than 1 mm, in the closed position of the closing element when the engagement element engages with the first key portion or the first key portion and the second key portion of the holding plate.

[0061] The interlocking of the engagement element and the projections or recesses in the retaining plate does not necessarily represent a positive fit. The retaining plate can be movable a short distance away from the pivot axis of the locking element. This can be achieved by an interlocking, in which the retaining plate has a corresponding freedom of movement because there is a distance between the engagement element and the projections of the key section(s). Alternatively, the projections of the key sections can be elastic, so that the retaining plate remains movable even with a positive fit. While the retaining plate is arranged in the predetermined position on the retaining plate holder and the locking element is in the closed position, the locking hook(s) is / are rusted to the locking hook bearing section of the retaining plate.When the retaining plate is moved on the retaining plate holder, this rust is released and the locking hook(s) reach the locking hook release section. Since rust is not possible there, the locking element can be opened. This can be done either manually or by means of a spring element mentioned above. In summary, the limited mobility of the retaining plate allows for easy release of the rust along with the locking element.

[0062] The invention further provides a method for inserting a vacuum cleaner filter bag into a vacuum cleaner, wherein the vacuum cleaner filter bag comprises a retaining plate as described above. The method comprises providing a described device, wherein the closing element is in the open position, placing the retaining plate onto the retaining plate receptacle, closing the closing element by pivoting it into the closed position, wherein the latching hook latches with the retaining plate and the engagement element engages with the first key portion and the second key portion in the retaining plate, so that the closing element is held in the closed state and the retaining plate is held in a predetermined position on the retaining plate receptacle.

[0063] For the user, the method using the described retaining plate and the described device offers a handling advantage because the retaining plate does not have to be threaded into a slot as in the prior art, but simply needs to be placed on the retaining plate receptacle. When the locking element is pivoted from the open to the closed position, the engagement element and the first and second key sections engage with each other, so that the retaining plate is held in the predetermined position. Any deviation between the predefined position and the support position can be compensated for by the retaining plate being automatically moved into the predetermined position when the engagement element and the key section(s) engage. In addition, the locking element cannot lock in the closed position if no retaining plate is arranged on the retaining plate receptacle.

[0064] The invention also provides a method for removing a vacuum cleaner filter bag from a vacuum cleaner, wherein the vacuum cleaner filter bag comprises a retaining plate as described above. The method comprises providing a described device for retaining a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner, wherein the closing element is in the closed position and the retaining plate is arranged on the retaining plate receptacle, pulling the retaining plate in a direction parallel to the plane of the retaining plate receptacle such that the locking between the retaining plate and the locking hook(s) is released, pivoting the closing element into the open position, and removing the vacuum cleaner filter bag.

[0065] Removing the vacuum cleaner filter bag also offers the user a handling advantage, as the retaining plate is exposed when the locking element is open, allowing the vacuum cleaner filter bag to be easily removed (upward) from the dust collection chamber. For example, there's no need to thread the retaining plate out of a slot.

[0066] The locking element can pivot automatically after the locking mechanism is released. A spring element, for example, is suitable for this purpose, exerting a spring force that pushes the locking element toward the open position. This saves the user from having to manually pivot it and increases user comfort. Further features and advantages are explained below using the example figures. They show:

[0067] Figure 1 shows a holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag according to a first embodiment in a plan view;

[0068] Figure 2 shows a holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag according to a second embodiment in a plan view;

[0069] Figure 3 shows a device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner with the closing element in the open position in an oblique view;

[0070] Figure 4 shows the device together with a holding plate and the closing element in the closed position in an oblique view; and

[0071] Figure 5 shows a vacuum cleaner comprising a device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner and a holding plate in an oblique view.

[0072] In the following and in the figures, the same reference numerals are used for the same or corresponding features in the various embodiments, unless otherwise specified.

[0073] Figure 1 shows a top view of a holding plate 2 for a vacuum cleaner filter bag 1 according to a first embodiment. Thus, the top side of the holding plate 2 is shown. The vacuum cleaner filter bag 1 itself comprises a filter medium and a holding plate 2 connected to the filter medium, wherein the connection can be an adhesive, clamped, or welded connection. The holding plate 2 has an opening 14 through which the suction air stream laden with dirt and dust is directed into the filter medium during vacuuming. A seal 15, which consists, for example, of or comprises a thermoplastic elastomer, is located around the opening 14. The vacuum cleaner filter bag 1 can be a flat bag.

[0074] The holding plate 2 has a first edge portion 9a and a second edge portion 9b, with the first edge portion 9a opposite the second edge portion 9b. The opening 14 can be arranged between the first edge portion 9a and the second edge portion 9b.

[0075] On or in the first edge section 9a there is firstly a latching hook bearing section 12a which is designed to interact with the latching hook of a device as described in detail with reference to Figures 3 and 4, such that the latching hook latches onto the latching hook bearing section 12a with the holding plate 2. In the example shown, the first edge section 9a has a concave recess for this purpose. The latching hook bearing section 12a is that part of the concave recess which leads to a decreasing width of the holding plate 2. In particular, the upper part of the concave recess shown in the figure is relevant as the latching hook bearing section 12a, as will become clear from the further description. Adjacent to the locking hook bearing section 12a, there is a locking hook release section 13 in the first edge section 9a. Here, no locking takes place between the holding plate 2 and the locking hook, so that the locking hook is released.In the case of a concave recess, the locking hook release section 13 is in particular that section around the local minimum of the width of the holding plate 2.

[0076] Other shapes for the latching hook bearing section 12a and the latching hook release section 13 are also conceivable. It is important that a local curvature is present in the first edge section 9a. Also possible, for example, are a convex projection or a rectangular or trapezoidal recess (for which a definition as concave or convex does not necessarily apply because the radius of curvature is zero).

[0077] As can be seen, the locking hook bearing section 12a and the locking hook release section 13 are adjacent or contiguous to one another. This has the advantage that the locking of the retaining plate 2 with the locking hook can be released by a slight displacement of the retaining plate 2. When the locking hook is locked to the locking hook bearing section 12a, the retaining plate 2 can be displaced, for example, essentially parallel to the first edge section 9a, such that the locking hook no longer rests against the locking hook bearing section 12a, but is located in the area of ​​the locking hook release section 13. Here, however, there is no locking between the locking hook 12 and the retaining plate 2, so that the locking hook is exposed (reaching into the void). The locking is thus released.

[0078] A width of the locking hook bearing section 12a can correspond to a width or length of the locking hook. In particular, the width of the locking hook bearing section 12a can correspond to a width or length of the joining part of the locking hook. The joining part of the locking hook is shown in Figure 3.

[0079] In addition, a first key section 8 is formed in the first edge section 9a. This comprises a plurality of projections 8a. These projections 8a lie in a plane of the holding plate 2 or parallel to the support surface. The projections 8a can, in particular, be rectangular or trapezoidal (also referred to as teeth). However, the shape of the projections 8a is not limited by this. Between two adjacent projections 8a or teeth there is a recess 8b. The first key section 8 shown has a total of four projections 8a and three recesses 8b, although other suitable values ​​can also be used.

[0080] A second key section 8 is formed in the second edge section 9b. The same considerations apply to the second key section 8 as to the first key section 8. The two key sections can be symmetrical or congruent. In other words, the retaining plate 2 is mirror-symmetrical with respect to the two key sections 8. However, the two key sections can also differ in shape.

[0081] The two key sections are designed to interact with an engagement element of the device, so that the holding plate 2 is held in a predetermined position. In particular, this holding / fixing is achieved by an interlocking between the engagement element and the key sections (see Figure 4). Since the key sections are formed in both edge sections 9a, 9b of the holding plate 2, the holding is not only one-sided, and the holding plate can be better secured against displacement, especially rotation.

[0082] The first key section 8 and the second key section 8 also serve as a coding system, ensuring that only retaining plates with the correct key section can be used in combination with a device described below. This effectively prevents unsuitable vacuum cleaner filter bags from being used for a vacuum cleaner. This aspect is explained in more detail below.

[0083] The holding plate 2 further comprises a gripping portion 18. This can be formed on a third edge portion of the holding plate 2. The gripping portion 18 has a local thickening. In other words, the holding plate 2 has a greater thickness in the region of the gripping portion. In this area, a user can easily grasp the holding plate 2 and pull it in a direction parallel to the support surface. This step is required to release a locking connection between the holding plate 2 and the locking hook. The gripping portion thus improves the user's handling of the holding plate 2. Alternatively, instead of thickening this edge portion, it is conceivable to achieve a better grip by applying a texture to the surface of the holding plate and possibly dispense with the thickening.

[0084] Figure 2 shows a holding plate 2 according to a second embodiment. This largely overlaps with the first embodiment, so a repeated explanation is omitted here. One difference is that a further latching hook bearing section 12a is formed on or in the second edge section 9b. Adjacent to the further latching hook bearing section 12a, a further latching hook release section 13 is also formed on or in the second edge section 9b. The further latching hook bearing section 12a and the further latching hook release section 13 fulfill the same tasks and have the same properties as previously explained with regard to the latching hook bearing section 12a and the latching hook release section 13.Thus, a locking connection can take place between the holding plate 2 and two locking hooks, wherein a first locking hook locks onto the locking hook bearing section 12a and a second locking hook locks onto the further locking hook bearing section 12a.

[0085] A locking at both edge sections of the holding plate 2 has the advantage of a better distribution of the force acting on the holding plate, which is exerted by the locking hooks 12, and the force is not applied to the holding plate 2 on one side.

[0086] The first edge section 9a and the second edge section 9b can be symmetrical or congruent. Overall, the retaining plate 2 can be mirror-symmetrical with respect to the two edge sections 9a, 9b. Such a symmetrical design not only has the aforementioned advantage of better force distribution, but also simplifies the manufacture and storage of the retaining plate compared to an asymmetrical design.

[0087] Figure 3 shows an oblique view of a device 20 according to the invention for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag 1 in a vacuum cleaner. The device 20 comprises a holding plate receptacle 5 with a support surface and a closing element 4. The closing element 4 can be pivoted between a closed position and an open position. Figure 3 shows the closing element 4 in the open position.

[0088] The holding plate holder 5 is designed to hold a holding plate of a vacuum cleaner filter bag on the support surface of the holding plate holder 5. For this purpose, the holding plate can, for example, be placed on the support surface of the holding plate holder 5. Compared to slot-like inserts for the holding plate known from the prior art, the insertion of the holding plate is considerably simplified with the device shown because the user no longer has to thread the holding plate into the insert, but merely needs to place the holding plate on the holding plate holder 5. The holding plate holder 5 has a recess (shown with opposite hatching in Figure 3) which is located below the opening of the holding plate when this holding plate is arranged on the holding plate holder.The purpose of this is to ensure that a filter medium attached to the holding plate has sufficient space and that the dust-laden air can be guided through the opening into the filter medium. The closing element 4 has an engagement element 10 on an edge section facing the holding plate receptacle 5. This engagement element is designed to engage with a recess and / or a projection in the holding plate. Specifically, for the holding plate from Figures 1 and 2, this means that the engagement element 10 comprises at least one projection that can engage with the recess in the holding plate, and / or that the engagement element 10 comprises at least one clamp that can engage around a projection in the holding plate. In the example shown, the engagement element 10 comprises a plurality of projections and clamps, in particular one clamp and two projections.This pattern can thus be complementary to the key section of the retaining plate, which accordingly comprises three recesses. This means that the number of projections and clips corresponds in particular to the number of recesses and projections in the corresponding key sections of the retaining plate. The clips can also nestle against a projection in the retaining plate. The precise functions of the engagement element 10 become even clearer when the locking element 4 is in the closed position; see Figure 4.

[0089] Furthermore, a locking hook 12 is arranged on the locking element 4. Like the engagement element 10, the locking hook 12 is also arranged on the side of the locking element 4 facing the holding plate receptacle 5. The function of the locking hook 12 will be explained in more detail in connection with Figure 4. The locking hook comprises a joining part. This is the outer projection of the locking hook 12, which is designed for locking. In a preferred embodiment, the locking hook 12 of the locking element 4 can also protrude through a recess in the holding plate receptacle 5 in order to achieve better locking on the holding plate 2.

[0090] The holding plate holder 5 further comprises a bearing element 16. The bearing element 16 is designed to hold the holding plate against movement perpendicular to the support surface of the holding plate holder 5. The holding plate cannot therefore be removed upwards, i.e. vertically to the support surface of the holding plate holder 5. In addition, the bearing element 16 also fixes the holding plate against lateral movements of the holding plate parallel to the support surface of the holding plate holder 5. As a result, the holding plate 5 can essentially only be moved along one axis. This one axis, along which the holding plate remains movable, can, for example, be perpendicular to the pivot axis of the locking element. This makes it easier for a user to find the predetermined position of the holding plate on the holding plate holder.

[0091] The device 20 further comprises a spring element 3. The spring element 3 exerts a spring force on the closing element 4, so that it is pushed towards the open position. The spring element 3 is connected to the closing element 4 and to the holding plate receptacle 5, but is not limited to this arrangement, as there are several ways of implementing the spring element 3 to achieve the aforementioned effect. For example, as shown in the figure, a leg spring can be arranged on the pivot axis 11 of the closing element 4, which exerts a torque when the closing element 4 is pivoted towards the closed position. Alternatively, a torsion or spiral spring can also be used. The center of the leg spring is located on the pivot axis 11, and one of the two legs presses against the closing element 4, while the other leg presses against the holding plate receptacle 5 or a part of the housing.The connection to the retaining plate holder 5 serves to ensure the stability of the suspension of the spring element 3. Another possibility is a curved leaf spring or flat spring mounted on the support surface of the retaining plate holder 5. When the locking element 4 is in the closed position, it presses on the leaf or flat spring, which accordingly exerts a spring force toward the open position.

[0092] Finally, the device 20 comprises a stop element 17. The stop element 17 is essentially a part of the locking element 4 and is designed such that abutment of the retaining plate against the stop element 17 leads to a pivoting of the locking element toward the closed position. For example, the stop element 17 is a projection on the locking element 4 against which the retaining plate strikes in the predetermined position. Since the pivot axis 11 of the locking element 17 does not coincide with the stop point of the retaining plate, a torque is exerted on the locking element 4, which leads to its pivoting. The stop element 17 thus serves, among other things, as an indicator that the retaining plate is in the predetermined position on the retaining plate holder 5. The user can therefore directly recognize the triggered pivoting of the locking element 4, indicating that the retaining plate has been inserted correctly.

[0093] In an alternative embodiment, it is also possible for the retaining plate to strike the stop element 17 to completely pivot the locking element 4 into the closed position. When the retaining plate is inserted into the predetermined position on the retaining plate holder 5, the locking element 4 is pivoted into the closed position and thereby locks into the retaining plate.

[0094] The locking element 4 can be essentially U-shaped with two legs. The two legs are particularly symmetrical. The retaining plate is therefore held symmetrically at the two edge sections of the retaining plate, which enables optimal retention and even distribution of the acting forces. An advantage of the U-shape is that the two legs firmly fix the retaining plate, but at the same time, sufficient space remains between the two legs to prevent the opening and seal of the retaining plate from coming into contact with the locking element. The U-shape therefore represents an efficient design that does not restrict the function or geometry of the retaining plate.

[0095] Figure 4 shows the device 20 from Figure 3 with the closing element 4 in the closed position. Also shown is a retaining plate 2 located on the retaining plate receptacle 5. This can, in particular, be a retaining plate 2 according to the first or second embodiment. Since most of the components have already been explained with reference to Figure 3, they will not be introduced again here.

[0096] As shown in the figure, the engagement element 10 of the locking element 4 and the first key portion 8 of the retaining plate 2 engage with each other, so that the retaining plate 2 is held in the predetermined position. The engagement can be a positive fit. This also shows the engagement between the engagement element 10 and the key portion 8 of the retaining plate. The projections of the engagement element 10 engage in the recesses of the retaining plate 2, and the clamps of the engagement element 10 encompass the projections in the key portion 8 of the retaining plate.

[0097] The locking hook 12 is engaged with the locking hook bearing section 12a of the retaining plate. This holds the locking element 4 in the closed position against the spring force of the spring element 3. Also important in this context is the bearing element 16, which fixes the retaining plate against movement perpendicular to the support surface of the retaining plate holder 5. In other words, the retaining plate 2 is held on the retaining plate holder 5 by the bearing element 16 against the spring force (due to the locking between the locking element 4 and the retaining plate 2 by the locking hook). As a result, the retaining plate 2 cannot be lifted upwards away from the retaining plate holder 5.

[0098] In one embodiment, the locking element 4 can additionally have a projection that can be brought into engagement with the recess comprising the latching hook bearing section 12 and the latching hook release section 13. This projection can, in particular, also encompass the latching hook 12. This engagement further improves the stability of the mounting of the retaining plate.

[0099] The closing element 4 can be designed such that, in the closed position, an upper surface of the closing element 4 extends tangentially with a portion of the retaining plate receptacle 5. This allows the user to intuitively recognize that the retaining plate 2 is correctly arranged in the specified position. This ensures that the retaining plate 2, with its seal 15 located around the opening 14, is correctly positioned in all three axes relative to the intake nozzle of a vacuum cleaner, so that the dust-laden air is completely directed through the opening 14.

[0100] To release the locking connection between the locking hook 12 and the holding plate 2, the holding plate must be moved on the holding plate receptacle 5 so that the locking hook 12 reaches the area of ​​the locking hook release section 13. The locking hook 12 is then released and the spring force of the spring element 3 presses the locking element 4 into the open position. To enable this displacement, it is conceivable that the engagement between the engagement element 10 and the key section 8 of the holding plate is not a perfect form-fit, but rather allows freedom of movement for the holding plate. For this purpose, the projections and clamps of the engagement element 10 can, for example, leave a (small) distance between the recesses and projections in the key section 8 of the holding plate. It is also possible for the projections in the key section 8 to be elastic.The necessary displacement of the retaining plate 2 can also be achieved by such elasticity of the projections, for example, if the grip portion 18 of the retaining plate 2 is pulled with sufficient force. The necessary displacement can be less than 2 mm, in particular less than 1 mm.

[0101] The above statements were made for the first key section 8 of the holding plate 2, but also apply in the same way to the second key section 8.

[0102] Finally, Figure 5 shows a vacuum cleaner 7 according to the present invention. The vacuum cleaner 7 comprises a housing 7a with a pivotable lid 6, which is provided for closing the dust collection chamber of the vacuum cleaner 7. This is shown in the open position (also called the service position), in which a dust collection chamber arranged inside the housing 7a is exposed. Located in the dust collection chamber is a vacuum cleaner filter bag 1 with a holding plate 2. The holding plate 2 is arranged on a holding plate receptacle 5 of the device 20. The device 20 is the previously described device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner.

[0103] When the closing element 4 is in the open position, as shown in Figure 3, the closing element 4 protrudes upwards. This means that the lid 6 of the housing 7a cannot be closed because the closing element 4 prevents the lid 6 from pivoting completely, so that the lid 6 can lock with the rest of the housing 7a. The closing element 4 thus serves as a so-called suction lock. As previously explained, the closing element 4 remains in the open position if no vacuum cleaner filter bag 1 has been inserted into the stick vacuum cleaner 7 because the locking hook 12 cannot lock onto the holding plate 2 of the vacuum cleaner filter bag and the spring force of the spring element 3 presses the closing element into the open position. The housing 7a or the lid 6 cannot therefore be closed without a vacuum cleaner filter bag inserted.

[0104] Vacuuming is not possible with the housing 7a open (or incompletely closed) because the vacuum cleaner 7 draws ambient air into the blower through the open housing 7a and consequently develops no suction effect. Damage to the vacuum cleaner 7 or the blower caused by the suction of dust and dirt can be reliably prevented in this way because the vacuum cleaner cannot be used for vacuuming without the vacuum cleaner filter bag 1 inserted. This demonstrates the dual function of the locking element 4 on the device 20. It prevents possible damage to the vacuum cleaner 7 by ensuring that only correct / suitable vacuum cleaner filter bags are used and also that the vacuum cleaner 7 cannot be used without the vacuum cleaner filter bag inserted.

Claims

Claims 1. A device (20) for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag (1) in a vacuum cleaner (7), the device (20) comprising: a holding plate receptacle (5) for receiving a holding plate (2) of the vacuum cleaner filter bag (1) on a support surface of the holding plate receptacle (5), and a closing element (4) pivotable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closing element (4) comprises a latching hook (12), wherein the latching hook (12) is designed to latch, in a closed position of the closing element (4), onto a holding plate (2) received on the holding plate receptacle (5), so that the closing element (4) is held in the closed position by the latching hook (12), and wherein the closing element (4) comprises, on a side facing the holding plate receptacle (5), an engagement element (10) designed to be engaged with a key portion (8) of the holding plate (2).so that the closing element (4) in its closed position holds the holding plate (2) received by the holding plate holder (5) in a predetermined position., 2. Device (20) according to claim 1, wherein the holding plate holder (5) further comprises a bearing element (16) which is designed to hold the holding plate (2) against a movement perpendicular to the support surface of the holding plate holder (5), and / or wherein the bearing element (16) is designed to hold the holding plate (2) against a lateral movement on the holding plate holder parallel to the support surface (5).

3. Device (20) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a spring element (3) which exerts a spring force which presses the closing element (4) towards the open position.

4. Device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the engagement element (10) comprises: a projection which engages with a recess (8b) in the holding plate (2) when the closing element (10) is in the closed position, and / or a clamp which engages around a projection (8a) in the holding plate (2) when the closing element (10) is in the closed position.

5. Device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closing element (4) further comprises two locking hooks (12) which are arranged such that they lock onto different sides of the holding plate (2), in particular opposite sides of the holding plate (2).

6. Device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a stop element (17) which is a part of the closing element (4) and is designed such that a stop of the holding plate (2) on the stop element (17) leads to a pivoting of the closing element (4) from the open position towards the closed position.

7. A holding plate (2) for a vacuum cleaner filter bag (1), which is designed to be held by a device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding plate (2) comprises: a latching hook bearing portion (12a) formed in a first edge portion (9a) of the holding plate (2), and a first key portion (8) formed in the first edge portion (9a), wherein the latching hook bearing portion (12a) is designed to cooperate with the latching hook (12) of the closing element, so that the closing element (4) latches with the latching hook bearing portion (12a) in the closed position, and wherein the first key portion (8) is designed to cooperate with the engagement element (10) so that the holding plate (2) is held in the predetermined position when the closing element (10) is in the closed position.

8. The retaining plate (2) according to claim 7, further comprising a second key portion (8) formed in a second edge portion (9b) of the retaining plate (2), wherein the first edge portion (9a) is opposite the second edge portion (9b), and wherein the second key portion (8) is configured to cooperate with the engagement element (10) so that the retaining plate (2) is held in the predetermined position when the locking element (10) is in the closed position.

9. Holding plate (2) according to claim 7 or 8, further comprising a latching hook release portion (13) which is adjacent to the latching hook bearing portion (12a) and is formed in the first edge portion (9a) of the holding plate (2), wherein the latching hook release portion (13) is designed to release the latching hook (12) because no latching with the latching hook (12) takes place.

10. Holding plate (2) according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the first key portion (8) and / or the second key portion (8) comprise a plurality of projections (8a) and recesses (8b) arranged between two adjacent projections.

11. Holding plate (2) according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the holding plate (2) is mirror-symmetrical with respect to the first key portion (8) and the second key portion (8).

12. Holding plate (2) according to one of claims 8 to 11, wherein a further latching hook bearing section (12a) is formed in the second edge section (9b), wherein a further latching hook release section (13) adjacent to the further latching hook bearing section (12a) is arranged in the second edge section (9b), and wherein optionally the holding plate (2) is mirror-symmetrical with respect to the first edge section (9a) and the second edge section (9b).

13. Holding plate (2) according to one of claims 7 to 12, comprising a material made of recycled and / or renewable raw materials.

14. Vacuum cleaner (7) comprising a housing (7a) with a lid (6) and a device (20) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the device (20) is arranged in a dust collection chamber of the vacuum cleaner (7), wherein the lid (6) is pivotally attached to the housing (7a) and is provided for closing the dust collection chamber, wherein the lid (6) of the housing (7a) is closable when the closing element (4) is in the closed position, and wherein the lid (6) of the housing (7a) is not closable when the closing element (4) is in the open position.

15. Vacuum cleaner (7) according to claim 14, wherein a holding plate (2) according to one of claims 7 to 13 is further arranged on the holding plate receptacle (5) of the device (20), wherein the holding plate (2) in the closed position of the locking element (12), when the engagement element (10) with the first key portion (8) or the first key sel section (8) and the second key section (8) of the holding plate (2) engages with each other, is movable by not more than 2 mm, in particular not more than 1 mm, away from a pivot axis of the locking element (4).

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