Valve assembly for a suction device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) for a suction device, in particular for construction vacuum cleaners, wherein the valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) comprises the following: a shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) which can be moved between a closed position and an open position; An actuating device with at least one actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504) configured to move the shut-off body (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) from the closed position to the open position, wherein the actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504) of the actuating device is movable along a first actuating path (128, 228, 328), wherein the shut-off body (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) is movable along a second actuating path (130, 230, 330) between the closed position and the open position, and wherein the second actuating path (130, 230, 330) is longer than the first actuating path (128, 228, 328).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a valve arrangement for a suction device, particularly, but not exclusively, for filter cleaning in construction vacuum cleaners. The invention further relates to a suction device with the novel valve arrangement.

[0002] Cleaning the filters on construction vacuums is a crucial aspect of maintenance that significantly impacts the performance and lifespan of the device. Construction vacuums are used in demanding environments where they must collect large quantities of dust, dirt, and other particles. Dirty or clogged filters can severely impair suction power, lead to motor overheating, and ultimately damage the vacuum. Regular and thorough filter cleaning ensures that the construction vacuum operates efficiently and that workplace air quality is not compromised by stirred-up particles.

[0003] Construction vacuums use various filter types, each requiring specific cleaning methods. One way to remove dust and dirt is to use fresh air to clean the filter cartridges. This is known as filter tapping with fresh air. Filter tapping with air is an efficient method for cleaning construction vacuum filters. This technique uses outside air (fresh air) to remove dust and dirt particles from the pores and pleats of the filter. Fresh air is forced from a clean side of the filter towards the dirty side to dislodge the contaminants and collect them in the collection container.

[0004] It is known to automatically clean the filter with fresh air. This allows the filter to be backflushed with fresh air at regular intervals during operation of the vacuum cleaner. By regularly cleaning the filter during operation, construction dust and other contaminants accumulate in the filter much more slowly, thus extending the vacuum cleaner's service life before manual cleaning or filter replacement. However, each time the filter is cleaned with fresh air, the suction flow provided by the vacuum cleaner is briefly interrupted or reduced. It is generally desirable to perform the cleaning with fresh air as quickly as possible to minimize this loss of suction.

[0005] A key component of efficient and cost-effective backflushing is the valve technology, which relies on high and powerful dynamics to quickly clean the filter and ensure a virtually uninterrupted suction flow within the vacuum cleaner. Construction vacuums with a backflushing function feature valve arrangements designed to allow outside air to flow into the vacuum cleaner housing at regular intervals. The outside air is typically drawn in by the negative pressure inside the vacuum cleaner as long as the valve arrangement is open. To ensure fast and efficient backflushing, the largest possible ventilation opening must be opened within a short time.

[0006] Currently, solenoid valves are frequently used to quickly and repeatedly open and close ventilation openings. These solenoid valves have a solenoid that moves a shut-off element relative to the ventilation openings. The disadvantage of such solenoid valves lies in their displacement-dependent force curve; that is, with increasing distance, the magnetic force decreases exponentially, limiting the possible valve stroke and thus the achievable opening cross-section. To compensate for this disadvantage, increasingly larger and more expensive solenoids or complex mechanical / pneumatic levers are used on the market, which only result in a slight increase in performance.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to improve existing valve arrangements in such a way that large valve strokes can be achieved in a cost-effective manner. The complexity of the valve arrangement should not be increased or even decreased.

[0008] The aforementioned problem is solved by the subject matter of independent claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the valve arrangement according to the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0009] Accordingly, the present invention relates to a valve arrangement for a suction device, in particular for construction vacuum cleaners, wherein the valve arrangement comprises the following: a shut-off element which can be moved between a closed position in which the shut-off element covers at least one ventilation opening and an open position in which the shut-off element is spaced away from the at least one ventilation opening; an actuating device with at least one actuating means which is designed to move the shut-off element from the closed position to the open position, wherein the actuating means of the actuating device is movable along a first actuating path, wherein the shut-off element is movable along a second actuating path between the closed position and the open position, and wherein the second actuating path is longer than the first actuating path.

[0010] The present invention is based on the idea that even a relatively short movement of the actuating element is sufficient to transmit an impulse to the shut-off element. This impulse allows the shut-off element to be positioned further away from the valve seat than would be possible solely through the movement or stroke of the actuating element. Accordingly, small movements or strokes of the actuating element can create large opening cross-sections for the inflow of ambient air into the interior of the suction device. The invention is therefore based on at least a partial decoupling of the movements of the actuating element and the shut-off element. In other words, the shut-off element is movable relative to the actuating element. Since the actuation path of the actuating element can be kept particularly short by this concept, it results in a saving of installation space.On the other hand, the short actuation path allows for the use of more economical actuating elements. This is advantageously used in magnetic actuating devices today, allowing for the use of smaller magnets that are still sufficient to achieve the relatively short stroke of the actuating element.

[0011] According to another embodiment, the shut-off element is spaced away from the actuating means in the open position.

[0012] According to a further embodiment, the distance between the shut-off element and the actuating means in the open position is variable and depends in particular on an impulse applied to the shut-off element by the actuating means. The length of the second actuation path of the shut-off element is not limited, as is often the case, for example, with a stop in the prior art. Due to this freedom of movement of the shut-off element, the length of the second movement path depends essentially only on the impulse transmitted by the actuating means.

[0013] It is conceivable to control the actuating mechanism and the impulse it generates based on the desired opening position. For example, the impulse can be adjusted according to the desired length of the second movement path and the associated opening cross-section of the valve. The impulse can also be controlled based on filter contamination data. For instance, a higher degree of contamination could lead to stronger impulses and thus the inflow of more ambient air during filter cleaning, and vice versa.

[0014] According to a further embodiment, one direction of the first actuation path essentially corresponds to one direction of the second actuation path. This allows the impulse of the actuating means to be transferred to the shut-off element particularly effectively.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the actuating element is designed to guide the shut-off element, at least as long as it is moved together with the actuating element. The actuating element thus fulfills a dual function as both a pulse generator and a guide. This allows for further space savings.

[0016] According to a further embodiment, the actuating device has a guide element designed to guide the shut-off element, at least as long as it undergoes relative movement with respect to the actuating element. It should be noted here that the guide element preferably does not form a stop and merely defines a direction of movement for the shut-off element along the second actuating path.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the actuating device has an electromagnet.

[0018] In another embodiment, the electromagnet acts as the guide. In other words, the electromagnet fulfills a dual function. On the one hand, it accelerates the magnetic armature and transmits a pulse to the shut-off element. On the other hand, the electromagnet—that is, its housing—guides the shut-off element during its relative movement with respect to the actuating element, such as the magnetic armature. This saves further installation space and reduces the number of components.

[0019] According to another embodiment, the actuating means is a magnetic armature.

[0020] In another embodiment, the actuating device has a plunger or lifter which can be actuated by a pneumatic, hydraulic, or mechanical actuator. For example, the mechanical actuator could be a camshaft or a lever mechanism. The pneumatic, hydraulic, or mechanical actuators can each be activated manually or automatically.

[0021] According to a further embodiment, at least a portion of the shut-off element is arranged concentrically with the actuating means. This concentric arrangement allows for a particularly effective and linear transmission of the impulse between the actuating means and the shut-off element.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the shut-off element has a recess for receiving at least a portion of the actuating element, at least in the closed position of the shut-off element. This reduces the space required for the valve arrangement according to the invention.

[0023] According to a further embodiment, at least a portion of the shut-off element is arranged concentrically with the guide means. Due to the concentric arrangement of the shut-off element with the guide means, the shut-off element can be moved along the guide means with minimal losses.

[0024] In a further embodiment, the shut-off element has a through-opening for receiving at least a portion of the guide element, at least in the open position of the shut-off element. This reduces the space required for the valve arrangement according to the invention.

[0025] In a further embodiment, the shut-off element is pre-tensioned into its closed position. For example, the pre-tension can be generated by the pressure within the suction device. Since a vacuum is maintained in the housing throughout the entire operation of the suction device, the shut-off element of the valve arrangement according to the invention is automatically pre-tensioned into its closed position at all times. No additional pre-tensioning means, such as return springs, are required for this purpose.

[0026] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a suction device, in particular a construction vacuum cleaner, which has the following features: a suction unit for generating a suction flow; at least one filter; and a filter cleaning device, wherein the filter cleaning device has at least one of the valve arrangements mentioned above.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the suction device has a housing with at least one ventilation opening.

[0028] According to another embodiment, at least the actuating means, in particular the entire valve assembly, is arranged on an outside of the housing.

[0029] According to a further embodiment, the suction unit is designed to generate a negative pressure in an intermediate space between the at least one filter and the suction unit, wherein the valve arrangement is designed such that the shut-off element is biased into its closed position by the negative pressure in the intermediate space.

[0030] Further advantages arise from the following description of the figures. The figures, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0031] They show: Fig. 1 View of a preferred embodiment of a suction device in suction operation; Fig. 2 View of a preferred embodiment of a suction device during filter cleaning. Fig. 3 Schematic representation of a valve arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention in the closed position; Fig. 4 Schematic representation of the valve arrangement according to Fig. 3 in an intermediate position; Fig. 5 Schematic representation of the valve arrangement according to Fig. 3in the open position; Fig. 6 Schematic representation of a valve arrangement according to a further embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 7 Schematic representation of a valve arrangement according to a further embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 8 Schematic representation of a valve arrangement according to a further embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 9 Schematic representation of a valve arrangement according to a further embodiment of the present invention in the closed position; Fig. 10 Schematic representation of a valve arrangement according to a further embodiment of the present invention in the open position; Detailed description

[0032] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a suction device 1 in suction operation. The suction device 1 comprises a dirt collection container 2, a filter 3, and a suction unit 4. The suction unit 4 can include a turbine 5, the turbine 5 being driven by a motor to generate a suction flow S. Technically, the turbine 5 operates as a compressor, drawing in air to generate the suction flow S.

[0033] The suction flow S is used to draw in dust, dirt, or a liquid mixture of water and dirt. The suction flow S flows within the suction device 1 in a flow channel or flow path, which is also designated by the reference numeral S. The suction device 1 has an inlet opening 9, and the suction flow S or flow path S preferably forms between the inlet opening 9 and the suction unit 4 or the turbine 5. The inlet opening 9 is preferably located in the dirt collection container 2 of the suction device 1.

[0034] A filter 3 is arranged between the inlet opening 9 and the suction unit 4. This filter is designed to filter dirt and dust from the suction flow S to prevent contamination of the suction unit 4. The filter 3 has a dirty side 7, which preferably faces the dirt collection container 2, and a clean side 8, which faces the suction unit 4 and the vacuum head.

[0035] In the context of the invention, the term "dirty side 7" refers not only to the corresponding side of the filter 3, but preferably also to the area of ​​the flow path S between the filter 3 and the inlet opening 9. The phrases "on the dirty side" and "between the filter 3 and the inlet opening 9" are preferably to be understood synonymously within the meaning of the invention. During operation of the suction device 1, the suction flow S flows from the dirty side 7 towards the clean side 8 through the filter 3, whereby dust and dirt are filtered out of the suction flow S as they pass through the filter 3. This direction of the suction flow S from the dirty side 7 towards the clean side 8 is described in Fig. 1 represented by the arrows marked with the reference symbol S.

[0036] The filter 3 can become clogged or blocked with a filter cake during operation of the suction device 1, which can reduce the suction power of the suction device 1. In this case, it is necessary to perform a so-called filter cleaning, i.e., cleaning of the filter 3 of the suction device 1. In the context of the present invention, this filter cleaning is carried out by backwashing, i.e., a brief reversal of the direction of the suction flow S. During this backwashing, the filter 3 is flushed with a backwash flow R, which flows from the clean side 8 of the filter 3 towards its dirty side 7. The backwash flow R is Fig. 2The backwash flow R can be generated by opening a further inlet opening 11 of the suction device 1, wherein this further inlet opening 11 can preferably be arranged in the upper area of ​​the suction device 1 or in the head of the suction device 1 ("suction device head").

[0037] The further inlet opening 11 can be equipped with a valve arrangement ( Figures 3 to 5 ) can be opened or closed. Through the additional inlet opening 11, ambient air 10 can flow into the suction device 1 when the valve is opened and act directly or indirectly on the filter 3.

[0038] The suction device 1 can have a throttle valve 6, which is preferably arranged in the region of the inlet opening 9 in the dirt collection container 2 of the suction device 1. The throttle valve 6 is particularly located in the suction flow S. The throttle valve 6 can be used to fully or partially open or close the at least one inlet opening 9 of the suction device 1. In particular, the inlet opening 9 of the suction device 1 can be opened or closed continuously, so that the suction flow S can preferably be continuously adjusted, and in particular throttled, by the throttle valve 6.

[0039] One embodiment of the valve arrangement 100 according to the invention is described in the Figures 3 to 5 The valve arrangement 100 can, for example, be mounted at the inlet opening 11 according to Figure 1 and 2 be arranged in the Figures 3 to 5The inlet opening 11 is, for example, represented as one or more ventilation openings 110, 112. The ventilation openings 110, 112 extend through the housing 108 of the suction device. The valve arrangement 100 is preferably located on the outside of the housing 108. However, it is also conceivable to arrange the valve arrangement 100 on the inside of the housing 108.

[0040] The suction openings are arranged such that they are connected to a part of the housing 108, which is located between the clean side 8 of the filter 3 and the suction unit 4. During operation of the suction device, a negative pressure exists in this part of the housing relative to the ambient air. Consequently, outside air tends to flow into the interior of the housing 108 through the ventilation openings 110, 112.

[0041] The valve assembly includes a shut-off element 102. The shut-off element is designed such that, in the Fig. 3In the closed position shown, all ventilation openings 110, 112 are covered. In other words, in the closed position, a base body 114 of the shut-off body 102 prevents ambient air (10, Fig. 1 ) can penetrate into the interior of the housing 108 via the ventilation openings 110, 112. For this purpose, one or more seals (not shown) can be arranged between the shut-off element 102 and the housing 108. Thus, the outside of the housing 108 serves as the valve seat for the shut-off element 102.

[0042] Since a negative pressure exists within the part of the housing connected to the ventilation openings 110, 112 during operation of the suction device, the shut-off element 102 is forced into its position. Fig. 3 The closed position shown is pre-tensioned. A closing force Fv acts on the shut-off element 102, which is primarily the product of the negative pressure in the housing and the opening area of ​​the ventilation openings 110, 112.

[0043] The shut-off element is designed to be movable relative to the housing 108. In particular, the shut-off element 102 can be moved away from and towards the ventilation openings 110, 112. In the embodiment shown here, the shut-off element 102 is translationally movable, especially vertically to the outer surface of the housing 108. In other words, the shut-off element 102 can be raised relative to the housing 108 to open the ventilation openings 110, 112. However, it is also fundamentally possible to move the shut-off element in any other way suitable for opening the ventilation openings. For example, the shut-off element could also be moved parallel to the outer surface of the housing 108. A pivoting movement of the shut-off element 102 is also conceivable.

[0044] The valve assembly 100 further comprises an actuating device. The actuating device serves in particular to move the shut-off element 102 from its position in Figure 3 shown closing position in the Figure 5 to convert the open position shown. For this purpose, the actuating device has at least one actuating means. In the case of the Figures 3 to 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating element is designed as a magnetic armature 104. The magnetic armature 104 works in conjunction with an electromagnet 106 of the actuating device. The actuating device according to the embodiment of Figures 3 to 5 It is therefore designed as a lifting magnet. The electromagnet 106 allows the magnetic armature 104 to be selectively lifted, i.e., moved away from the housing / valve seat 108.

[0045] The stroke 124 of the magnetic armature 104 is the Figure 4 to be removed. The stroke 124 corresponds to a first movement path 128 of the magnetic armature 104 between the in Figure 3 shown closing position and the one in Figure 4 The intermediate position of the shut-off valve is shown. This is the position shown in Figure 4 The position shown represents an intermediate position, since although the first movement path 128 of the magnetic armature 104 is in the Figure 4 shown in the position where the magnetic armature can no longer move further away from the housing 108, although the shut-off element 102 has not yet fully reached its open position. In the Figure 4 In the intermediate position of the shut-off element 102 shown, the movement, i.e., the stroke and thus the first movement path 128, of the magnetic armature sh 104 is limited by a stop. In particular, in the Figures 3 to 5 The illustrated embodiments show the stop being effected by the lifting magnet 106 itself.

[0046] The magnetic armature 104 is positively connected to the butterfly valve 102 in the opening direction of the shut-off body 102. In particular, the base body 114 of the shut-off body 102 has, according to the embodiment of the Figures 3 to 5 A recess with a shoulder area 118 is provided, which is designed to receive the magnetic armature 104. The diameter of the magnetic armature 104 is dimensioned such that an outer surface 120 of the magnetic armature 104 interacts with the shoulder area 118. The shoulder area 118 serves as the force transmission area of ​​the shut-off element 114 during the stroke 124 of the magnetic armature 104. When the electromagnet 106 is activated, the magnetic armature 104 is lifted and, through the force transmission in the shoulder area 118, carries the shut-off element 102 with it. This is particularly relevant in the intermediate position of the shut-off element 102 in Figure 4 shown.

[0047] The Figure 3It can further be seen that the recess of the sealing element 102 is part of a through-opening 116 that extends longitudinally along the base body 114. The base body 114 is therefore essentially ring-shaped. The recess has a larger diameter than the through-opening 116. The recess can, in particular, be a blind hole, for example, if the magnetic armature 104 is cylindrical, as in the example shown here.

[0048] In the embodiment shown here, the through-opening 116 serves in particular as a guide opening for the shut-off element 102. The through-opening 116 is specifically adapted to the outer circumference of the electromagnet 106. According to this example, the electromagnet 106 serves as a guide for the movement of the shut-off element 102. Figures 4 and 5It can be seen that the shut-off body 102 surrounds the electromagnet 106, that is, the electromagnet 106 is received in the through-opening 116 of the shut-off body 102.

[0049] According to the invention, the shut-off body is movable relative to the actuating means designed as a magnetic armature 104. This enables the shut-off body 102 to describe a second path of movement 130, which is longer than the first path of movement 128 of the magnetic armature 104 ( Fig. 5 In other words, the barrier body 102 is free-floating, because its path of movement 130 is not limited by the first path of movement 128 of the magnetic armature 104. The second path of movement 130 of the barrier body 102 is determined according to the [reference to be added]. Figures 3 to 5In this embodiment, the design is not limited by any further stop. Thus, the length of the second movement path 130 depends solely on the impulse of the magnetic armature 104. The magnetic armature therefore serves to accelerate the shut-off element 102 during its first movement path 128. As soon as the magnetic armature 104 reaches its stop, in this case the electromagnet 116, it is abruptly decelerated. However, since the shut-off element 102 is limited neither by the stop nor by the magnetic armature 104, it can remain in its upward movement until its inertial force is reduced by a combination of gravity and the negative pressure in the housing.

[0050] As soon as the stroke acceleration of the shut-off body 102 caused by the impulse of the magnetic armature 104 has ceased (i.e., drops to zero), the shut-off body is in its in Figure 5The open position shown. In other words, the open position of the shut-off element 102 depends essentially on the acceleration effect of the magnetic armature 104, that is, on the transmitted impulse. This also means that the open position of the shut-off element 102 is variable, depending on the acceleration potential of the magnetic armature 102. It is conceivable, in principle, that the magnetic armature (or any other actuating element of the actuating device) can be adjusted such that the transmitted impulse is variable and thus the second movement path 130 of the shut-off element is adjustable.

[0051] Due to the partial mechanical decoupling of the shut-off element 102 from the magnetic armature (actuator) 104, particularly large opening cross-sections for the ingress of ambient air can be easily achieved. Specifically, a relatively short stroke (i.e., the first movement path 128 of the magnetic armature 104) is sufficient to achieve a relatively large distance between the shut-off element 102 and the ventilation openings 110, 112, and thus from the valve seat. This relative mobility allows the shut-off element to fully utilize the acceleration force of the magnetic armature.

[0052] If the shut-off element 102 were fixedly connected to the magnetic armature 104, its second path of movement 130 would be limited to the first path of movement 128, or to the stroke 124 of the magnetic armature 104. This is shown schematically in the intermediate position according to Figure 4shown, in which the flow paths 122, 126, through which ambient air enters the housing 108, have a comparatively small flow cross-section. From the point in Fig. 4 In the intermediate position shown, i.e., the end of the first movement path 128, the shut-off body 102 is decoupled from the magnetic armature 104, resulting in a relative movement of the shut-off body with respect to the magnetic armature 104 in the stroke direction.

[0053] Another embodiment of a valve arrangement according to the invention is the one described in the Figure 6 shown. The valve arrangement 200 according to Figure 6 It also features a shut-off element 202, which serves to open or close ventilation openings 210 and 212. In the Figure 6 The shut-off valve is marked with reference numeral 202 in its closed position. The open position of the shut-off valve is shown with a dashed line and marked with reference numeral 203.

[0054] The shut-off element 202 has essentially the same structure as the shut-off element 102 according to the embodiments of the Figures 3 to 5 The shut-off body 202 also has a base body with a through-opening 216. A recess, which may be designed, for example, as a blind hole, defines a shoulder area 218, which serves as a stop for an actuating element of an actuating device.

[0055] The actuating device according to the embodiment from Figure 6 differs from the actuating device according to the Figures 3 to 5 In particular, the actuating device features according to Figure 6An actuating element designed as a plunger 204 is provided. The plunger 204 is also designed to transmit an impulse to the shut-off element 202. For this purpose, the plunger 204 is translationally movable, in particular perpendicular to the surface of the housing 208. In the embodiment shown here, the plunger 204 is mechanically driven, in particular by a camshaft 206. However, it is also conceivable in principle to drive the plunger 204 in any other suitable way, for example by pneumatics or hydraulics.

[0056] The valve assembly 200 further comprises a guide element 205, which is designed to guide the shut-off body 202 between its closed position and its open position (203), in particular perpendicular to the housing 208. For this purpose, the guide element 205 is received in the through-opening 216 of the shut-off body 202. Consequently, the shape and size of the guide element 205 correspond to the contour of the through-opening 216. In the embodiment shown here, the guide element 205 is in particular part of the actuating device. For example, the guide element 205 can be connected to the plunger 204. This has the advantage that the guide element 205 can move along the first path of movement 228 of the plunger 205. This allows the guide element to be designed in a space-saving manner and yet still cover the entire second path of movement 230 of the shut-off body 202.The guide means can, for example, be designed as a cylinder which extends away from an end of the plunger 205 facing the shut-off body 202.

[0057] In operation, the valve arrangement 200 can be used to close the ventilation openings 210, 212 or to temporarily open them at regular intervals. For this purpose, the actuating device can transmit a pulse to the freely moving or freely floating shut-off element 202 to move it from the closed position to the open position. In particular, the camshaft 206 serves this purpose, which is driven by the Figure 6 The indicated rotation displaces the plunger 205 translationally towards the shut-off body 202, thus generating a force F which counteracts the compressive force Fv. The force F is transmitted via the edge region 220 to the shoulder region 218 of the shut-off body 202.

[0058] The first actuation path 228 of the plunger 204 is in Figure 6 as the eccentric radius of the camshaft 206. As also in the embodiment according to the Figures 3 to 5 During the first actuation path 228, the plunger 204 is positively connected to the shut-off element 202. During this first actuation path 228, the plunger 204 and the shut-off element 202 move together, thereby transferring an impulse from the plunger 204 to the shut-off element 202. After the plunger 204 reaches its end position, i.e., the end of the first actuation path 228, the shut-off element moves relative to the actuating element, which is designed as the plunger 204.

[0059] The shut-off element 202 can therefore move beyond the first actuation path. In particular, it is freely movable along the second actuation path 230 between its closed and open positions. In this embodiment, the second actuation path 230 is also a translational actuation path, which is perpendicular to the housing 208 at the valve seat.

[0060] Figure 7 shows a further embodiment of the valve arrangement 300 according to the invention. The embodiment according to Figure 7 differs from the embodiments according to the Figures 3 to 6 in particular by the fact that the actuating device has a lever element 332 which serves to move the actuating means designed as a lifter 304 along a first actuating path 328.

[0061] The valve arrangement 300 according to Figure 7is designed to be mounted on an outer surface of the housing 308 of a suction device. The valve arrangement 300 included a shut-off element 302, which is essentially identical to the shut-off elements 102, 202 according to the Figures 3 to 6 The shut-off element 302 has a base body 314 with a through-opening 316. A recess forms a shoulder area 318. The shut-off element 302 can therefore be ring-shaped. In its closed position, the shut-off element is designed to cover or close the ventilation openings 310, 312. In its open position, the shut-off element is designed to release the ventilation openings 310, 312.

[0062] The shut-off valve is in Figure 7The shut-off body is shown in its closed and open positions. In the closed position, the section is designated with reference numeral 302. In the open position (shown with dashed lines), the shut-off body is designated with reference numeral 303. The shut-off body 302 is operatively connected to the actuating element of the actuating device, which is designed as a lifter 304. For this purpose, the lifter 304 has a substantially cylindrical base body 305, which also serves as a guide for the shut-off body. The cylindrical base body 305 has a flange 320 at a first end region, which extends around the base body 305. In the closed position of the shut-off body 302, the flange is positively engaged with the shoulder 318.

[0063] A lever element 332 is attached to the second end region of the base body 305, which is opposite the first end region. Specifically, the lever element 332 is connected to the second end region of the base body 305 via a pivot axis 333. An actuating surface is located at one end of the lever element 332 opposite the pivot axis 333. This surface can be used by the user to move the locking element 302 from its closed position to its open position. In particular, the force F applied to the actuating surface 336 is transmitted to the lever 304 via a lever bearing 334.

[0064] As in Figure 7 As indicated, the length and orientation of the lever element define the first actuation path 328 of the actuating element designed as a lifter 304. By actuating the lever element 332, the lifter 304 is disengaged from the position in Figure 7The position shown is moved upwards, that is, away from the housing 308. The movement of the lifter 304 is transmitted via the flange 320 to the shoulder area 318 of the shut-off body 302. The shut-off body 302 moves together with the plunger 304 until an intermediate position 70 is reached, in which the first movement path 328 is completed. This combined movement transmits an impulse to the shut-off body 302. Since the shut-off body 302 is movable relative to the actuating element designed as a lifter 304, it is moved further along the second actuating path 330 by the impulse. This continues in particular until the acceleration of the shut-off body drops to 0 and it thus reaches the closed position designated 303.

[0065] The Figure 8 Figure 8 shows a further embodiment of the valve arrangement according to the invention. The valve arrangement 800 according to Figure 800 is shown in Figure 800. Figure 8 essentially corresponds to the valve arrangement according to the Figures 3 to 5In particular, the actuating device is in accordance with Figure 8 Also shown above is a magnetic actuating device with an electromagnet 406 and a magnetic armature 404. Regarding the basic structure of the shut-off element 402 and the magnetic armature 404 or the electromagnet 406 relative to each other, reference should again be made to the description of the Figures 3 to 5 taken.

[0066] The embodiment according to Figure 8 differs essentially in that it is in the embodiment according to Figure 7The magnetic armature, in the closed position of the shut-off body 402, is arranged in the recess such that a distance exists between the edge region 420 and the shoulder 418 in the direction of movement of the magnetic armature 404. The distance shown here can also be referred to as the acceleration distance. The positioning distance of the magnetic armature 404 from the shut-off body 402 serves to accelerate the actuating element, designed as a magnetic armature 404, before it comes into contact with the shut-off body 402 and transmits an impulse to the shut-off body.

[0067] According to this embodiment, the shut-off element 402 and electromagnet 406 can be essentially identical to the embodiment according to the Figures 3 to 5The magnetic armature 404 is designed such that its height is less than the depth of the recess in the shut-off body. According to this embodiment, the power of the electromagnet could be reduced, since it initially only needs to accelerate the weight of the magnetic armature. When the magnetic armature 404 strikes the shoulder 418 of the shut-off body, it already possesses a certain amount of kinetic energy, which can be transferred as momentum to the shut-off body.

[0068] Since the magnetic armature already possesses kinetic energy upon impact with the barrier element 402, a shorter shared path of motion is sufficient to accelerate the barrier element. In other words, the moving element, designed as a magnetic armature, only needs to be moved together with the barrier element for a short distance. In the embodiment according to Figure 8This is used such that the electromagnet 406 already penetrates the through-opening 416 of the shut-off body 402 when the shut-off body 402 is already in the closed position. Thus, the shut-off body 402 can be guided through the electromagnet 406 along its entire second path of movement.

[0069] Figures 9 and 10 show a further embodiment of the valve arrangement according to the invention. Valve arrangement 500 essentially corresponds to valve arrangement 100 according to the invention. Figure 3 The valve assembly 500 also has a magnetic actuating device. The actuating device comprises an electromagnet 506 and a magnetic armature 504. The magnetic armature 504 serves to move the shut-off element 502 from its closed position to its open position.

[0070] The valve arrangement 500 according to the figure in 9 and 10 differs from the valve arrangement 100 kilometers. Figures 3 to 5The direction of movement, i.e., the second actuation path of the shut-off element 502, can only be determined by the guide means. Instead of using the electromagnet as a guide means, the embodiment has been described as follows: Figures 9 and 10It is proposed to provide an additional guide element 508. The guide element 508 can, for example, be a spring plate or a spring wire that defines the second path of movement of the shut-off element 502. In particular, the guide element 508 can pivot the shut-off element 502 between its closed and open positions. The guide element 508, which is formed by a wheel, can simultaneously be designed to pre-tension the shut-off element 502 into its closed position. This is particularly advantageous when large opening cross-sections are required, i.e., when the shut-off element is to be positioned at a particularly large distance from the valve seat / housing in its open position. In this case, the vacuum in the housing of the suction device may not be sufficient to close the shut-off element again.

[0071] In the embodiment according to the Figures 9 and 10The through-opening 516 of the shut-off element is preferably dimensioned such that the shut-off element 502 does not touch the electromagnet 506 along its second actuation path, i.e., between the closed position and the open position. The Figures 9 and 10 The guide system 508 shown is therefore executed smoothly.

[0072] Of course, it is also possible to use the external guide device 508 together with other actuating devices, such as those found, for example, in the Figures 6 to 8 shown, to connect. Reference symbol list

[0073] 1 Suction device 2 Dirt collection container 3 Filter 3 Suction unit 4 Turbine 5 Throttle valve 6 Dirty side 7 Clean side 8 Inlet opening 9 Ambient air 10 Inlet opening in the suction device head 11 Central control unit 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 Valve assembly 102, 202, 302, 402, 502 Shut-off element 104, 404, 504 Magnetic armature 204 Plunger 304 Lifter 106, 406, 506 Electromagnet 108, 208, 308 Housing 110, 210, 310 Ventilation opening 112, 212, 312 Ventilation opening 114, 214, 314 Base body 116, 216, 316, 416, 516 Through opening 118, 218, 318, 418 Shoulder 120, 220, 320, 420 Edge area 122 Airflow 124 Stroke 126 Airflow 128, 228, 328 First movement path 130, 230, 330 Second movement path Suction flow / flow channel Cross section

Claims

1. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) for a suction device, in particular for construction vacuums, wherein the valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) comprises the following: - a shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) which can be adjusted between a closed position, in which the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) covers at least one ventilation opening (110, 112, 210, 212, 310, 312), and an open position, in which the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) is separated from the at least one ventilation opening (110, 112, 210, 212, 310, 312) is spaced apart, is transferable;- an actuating device with at least one actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504) configured to move the shut-off body (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) from the closed position to the open position, wherein the actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504) of the actuating device is movable along a first actuating path (128, 228, 328), wherein the shut-off body (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) is movable along a second actuating path (130, 230, 330) between the closed position and the open position, and wherein the second actuating path (130, 230, 330) is longer than the first actuating path (128, 228, 328) is.; 2. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to claim 1, wherein the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) is spaced apart from the actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504) in the open position.

3. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to claim 2, wherein the distance of the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) from the actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504) is variable in the open position and is particularly dependent on an impulse applied to the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) by the actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504).

4. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one direction of the first actuation path (128, 228, 328) substantially corresponds to one direction of the second actuation path (130, 230, 330).

5. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504) is configured to guide the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502), at least as long as it is moved together with the actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504).

6. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the actuating device has a guide means (508) which is configured to guide the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) at least as long as it undergoes a relative movement with respect to the actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504), and wherein the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) preferably has a through-opening (116, 216, 316, 416, 516) for receiving the guide means at least in the open position of the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502).

7. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the actuating device has an electromagnet (106, 406, 506) and the actuating means (104, 404, 504) is preferably a magnetic armature (104, 404, 504).

8. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to claim 7 in combination with claim 6, wherein the electromagnet (106, 406, 506) forms the guide means.

9. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the actuating device has a plunger (304) or lifter (404) which can be actuated by a pneumatic, hydraulic or mechanical actuator.

10. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least a partial area of ​​the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) is arranged concentrically with the actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504).

11. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the shut-off body (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) has a recess for receiving the actuating means at least in the closed position of the shut-off body (102, 202, 302, 402, 502).

12. Valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to claim 6 or 8, wherein at least a partial area of ​​the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) is arranged concentrically with the guide means.

13. Suction device (1), in particular a construction vacuum cleaner, comprising: - a suction unit for generating a suction flow; - at least one filter; and - a filter cleaning device, wherein the filter cleaning device comprises at least one valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

14. Suction device according to claim 13, wherein the suction device has a housing with at least one ventilation opening (110, 112, 210, 212, 310, 312), and wherein the actuating means (104, 204, 304, 404, 504), in particular the entire valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500), of the filter cleaning device is arranged on an outside of the housing.

15. Suction device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the suction unit is configured to generate a negative pressure in an intermediate space between the at least one filter and the suction unit, and wherein the valve arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) is configured such that the shut-off element (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) is biased into its closed position by the negative pressure in the intermediate space.

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