High-pressure cleaning device and spraying device for a high-pressure cleaning device
The high-pressure cleaning device addresses ergonomic and flexible operation challenges by decoupling pressure and valve controls, enabling single-hand operation and reducing mechanical wear, thereby improving user convenience and device durability.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ANDREAS STIHL AG & CO KG
- Filing Date
- 2024-10-21
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-22
AI Technical Summary
Existing high-pressure cleaning devices lack ergonomic and flexible operation, particularly in the handling of the hand-held spray units, due to the coupling of pressure and valve controls, leading to increased wear and operational complexity.
A high-pressure cleaning device with a hand-held spray unit featuring independent valve and pressure control elements, allowing ergonomic operation with a single hand or finger, decoupling mechanical actuation, and utilizing control technology to minimize wear and facilitate convenient adjustment of pressure and valve states.
Enables comfortable and flexible operation of the high-pressure cleaning device by allowing independent control of pressure and valve functions, reducing mechanical wear and simplifying the operation process, thus enhancing user convenience and device longevity.
Smart Images

Figure IMGAF001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] The invention relates to a high-pressure cleaning device according to the preamble of claim 1 and a hand-held spray unit for a high-pressure cleaning device according to the preamble of claim 15.
[0002] From WO 2016 / 102075 A1, a high-pressure cleaning device with a hand-held spray unit is known, in which a lever is provided for opening and closing a main line valve for the passage of liquid at the spray unit. Before commissioning the high-pressure cleaning device, one of three pressure levels can be selected by means of a panel located remotely from the lever. This allows the pressure in the main line of the high-pressure cleaning device to be preset.
[0003] The invention is based on the objective of further developing a generic high-pressure cleaning device or a generic handheld spray unit in such a way that comfortable and flexible operation of the high-pressure cleaning device or the handheld spray unit is possible, particularly during operation of the high-pressure cleaning device. This objective is achieved by a high-pressure cleaning device with the features of claim 1.
[0004] This problem is solved by a hand-held spray unit for a high-pressure cleaning device with the features of claim 15.
[0005] In both cases, the high-pressure cleaning device comprises a connection for a liquid source, a high-pressure pump, a main line through which liquid can be pumped from the connection to a spray nozzle in the main line by means of the high-pressure pump, and a main line valve located in the main line. In a closed position, the main line valve prevents the flow of liquid through the main line. In a fully open position, the main line valve allows the flow of liquid through the main line. Specifically, the flow cross-section of the main line at the location of the main line valve is maximized when the main line valve is fully open.
[0006] The high-pressure cleaning device according to the invention comprises an operating device. The hand-held spray unit according to the invention comprises an operating device. The main line valve can be switched between the fully open state and the closed state by means of the operating device.
[0007] According to the invention, the operating device comprises a valve control element and a pressure control element. The valve control element is provided for switching the main line valve between the fully open and closed states. The pressure control element is provided for setting, in particular adjusting, the pressure of the liquid in the main line in the section between the high-pressure pump and the dispensing nozzle. In particular, the pressure control element allows the setting, in particular adjusting, of the pressure of the liquid in the main line in the section between the high-pressure pump and the dispensing nozzle when the main line valve is fully open. The pressure control element can be operated independently of the valve control element. In particular, the pressure control element can be operated independently of the valve control element, at least during a first part of its travel when the unactuated pressure control element is being actuated.In particular, the valve control can be actuated without simultaneously actuating the pressure control. In particular, the pressure control can be actuated without simultaneously actuating the valve control. In particular, the valve control and the pressure control are not coupled to each other, especially not mechanically. However, such a coupling may also be provided. In particular, it may be provided that the pressure control can be mechanically pressed without simultaneously pressing the valve control. In particular, the high-pressure cleaning device, especially the handheld spray unit, may be designed such that the pressure control does not trigger any function when actuated without simultaneously actuating the valve control. In particular, no change in pressure is triggered by the pressure control.This separation of mechanical actuation and functional release is achieved primarily through control technology. As a result, the pressure control element and the valve control element are subject to minimal wear. A mechanical coupling between the pressure control element and the valve control element is not required. The high-pressure cleaning device, particularly the handheld spray unit, includes a control unit. Specifically, signals are sent to the control unit when the pressure control element and / or the valve control element are actuated. The control unit only allows a change in pressure following actuation of the pressure control element if the valve control element is also actuated simultaneously. This prevents an increase in pressure on the closed main line valve, thus minimizing wear on the main line valve.
[0008] Because the high-pressure cleaner, and in particular the spray unit, includes a control device with a valve control and a pressure control, it is easy to operate. Both the pressure control and the valve control can be operated ergonomically.
[0009] In particular, the handheld spray unit is an integral part of the high-pressure cleaner. Specifically, the spray nozzle is located on the handheld spray unit. Specifically, the operating device is located on the handheld spray unit. This allows for convenient operation of the operating device during the operation of the high-pressure cleaner, especially while handling the handheld spray unit.
[0010] In particular, the handheld dispensing unit features a grip area. Specifically, a user can guide the handheld dispensing unit by gripping the handle area. Specifically, the valve and pressure controls can be operated with a single hand while gripping the handle area. This allows for comfortable and ergonomic operation of the device. The use of a second hand is not required while dispensing liquid and simultaneously adjusting the pressure in the main line. Specifically, the valve and pressure controls can be operated with a single finger while gripping the handle area.This allows the operator to switch the main line valve and control the pressure of the liquid in the main line between the high-pressure pump and the spray nozzle with a single finger. This is particularly possible while the liquid is being sprayed from the nozzle. This enables convenient and flexible operation of the spray unit, especially the high-pressure cleaner. The operator can ergonomically control the spray unit with a single finger.
[0011] In particular, the pressure control can be operated with a single three-jointed finger while gripping the handle. For example, the pressure control can be operated with the index finger while gripping the handle. Specifically, while the pressure control is being operated with this single three-jointed finger, the valve control can be operated with another three-jointed finger of the same hand. For example, while the pressure control is being operated with the index finger, the valve control can be operated with the middle finger of the same hand. This allows for particularly ergonomic operation of the handheld spray unit, especially the high-pressure cleaner. The thumb is not a three-jointed finger, but a two-jointed one.
[0012] In a further embodiment of the invention, the valve control element is a pivoting lever that can be pivoted about a pivoting axis. In particular, the pressure control element is a pivoting lever that can be pivoted about a pivoting axis. Specifically, the valve control element has a valve point located at a maximum valve distance from the pivoting axis, which is accessible, and in particular actuated, by the operator from the outside. The valve point has the maximum valve distance from the pivoting axis in the sense that it is the point of the valve control element that, in the unactuated state of the valve control element, is accessible to the operator for actuating the valve control element, in particular by placing a finger directly on the valve point, and simultaneously has the greatest distance from the pivoting axis.In particular, the pressure control element has a pressure point located at a maximum pressure distance from the pivot axis of the pressure control element, which is accessible and actuated by the operator from the outside. The pressure point has the maximum pressure distance from the pivot axis of the pressure control element in the sense that it is the point on the pressure control element that, in the unactuated state, is accessible to the operator for actuating the pressure control element, in particular by placing a finger directly on the pressure point, and simultaneously has the greatest distance from the pivot axis of the pressure control element. In particular, the maximum valve distance is greater than the maximum pressure distance. Due to the greater leverage that can be exerted when operating the valve control element, the valve control element can be operated with minimal effort. A large torque can be generated with minimal force.This allows for convenient and effortless opening of the main valve using the valve control element. Due to the small maximum pressure difference, the pressure control element can be designed to be small and compact. This enables ergonomic operation of the control device. Furthermore, the different maximum distances for the maximum valve distance and the maximum pressure difference allow the control device to be designed so that both the pressure control element and the valve control element can be operated independently of the other. In particular, the maximum valve distance is at least 150%, and especially 200%, of the maximum pressure difference. Because of the small maximum pressure difference, the pressure control element, designed as a swivel lever, has a small swivel range. This makes the pressure control element ergonomically easy to operate.
[0013] In a further embodiment of the invention, the valve control element has a recess. The pressure control element is at least partially received in the recess. In particular, the pressure control element projects through the recess of the valve control element. This allows the control device, which comprises the valve control element and the pressure control element, to be designed compactly overall. Simultaneous operation of the valve control element and the pressure control element is thus possible. In particular, while the valve control element is being actuated, the pressure control element can be actuated simultaneously with the same hand, in particular with the same finger, and in particular with the same three-segmented finger. It is particularly possible to operate the pressure control element with a three-segmented finger and the valve control element with an immediately adjacent three-segmented finger of the same hand, in particular simultaneously.
[0014] In particular, the pressure control element is pivotally mounted on the valve control element. The pivot axis of the pressure control element passes through the valve control element. This design of the operating device, consisting of the pressure control element and the valve control element, results in good ergonomics. Specifically, the pivot axis of the pressure control element is positioned at a distance from the pivot axis of the valve control element. This allows for a small pivot circle for the pressure control element, even with a large pivot circle for the valve control element. The arrangement of the two pivot axes thus enables ergonomic operation, particularly of the pressure control element.
[0015] In particular, the high-pressure cleaner features a motor to drive the high-pressure pump. The motor has an off state and an on state. The motor's position between the off and on states can be adjusted using the valve control. This additional functionality, assigned to the valve control, allows for particularly convenient operation of the high-pressure cleaner, especially the handheld spray unit. Specifically, it can be designed so that the motor switches to the off state when the valve control is moved to an unactuated position. Thus, when the main line valve is closed, the motor is switched off shortly before, simultaneously with, or shortly after the valve closes. This prevents the motor from generating unwanted pressure against the closed main line valve via the high-pressure pump.
[0016] In particular, the high-pressure cleaning device, especially the handheld spray unit, includes a detector. The detector is designed to detect the adjustment position of the pressure control element. Specifically, the detector comprises a potentiometer or a Hall sensor. A mechanical connecting element is arranged between the detector and the pressure control element. Advantageously, the detector determines the value of the pressure set by the pressure control element in the main line based on the detector's position traveled by a position element of the detector. The position element is adjustable along a maximum detector travel.
[0017] In particular, the pressure control element is adjustable along a maximum travel range. Specifically, this maximum travel range corresponds to at least 110%, in particular at least 150%, and in particular at least 200% of the maximum detector travel range. This enables a translation between the pressure control element and the position element of the detector. Due to the greater maximum travel range of the pressure control element compared to the maximum detector travel range of the position element, the desired pressure in the main line can be set with great precision using the pressure control element.
[0018] In particular, the main line between the connection and the high-pressure pump has a suction chamber. The main line between the high-pressure pump and the spray nozzle has, in particular, a pressure chamber. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the pressure chamber is fluidically connected to the suction chamber via a bypass line. A bypass valve is, in particular, arranged in the bypass line. To regulate the pressure in the pressure chamber, the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line can be adjusted by means of the bypass valve. Advantageously, the bypass valve can be adjusted to set the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line by means of the pressure control element. The cross-sectional area of the bypass line can, in particular, be preset by means of the pressure control element. This enables convenient operation of the high-pressure cleaning device.
[0019] In particular, the high-pressure cleaning device is designed such that the bypass valve adjusts the size of the free cross-sectional area depending on the adjustment position of the pressure control element. Specifically, the size of the free cross-sectional area can be adjusted by means of the pressure control element in at least six steps, in particular in at least 10 steps, in particular in a maximum of 30 steps, and in particular in a maximum of 20 steps. This allows the pressure in the section between the high-pressure pump and the spray nozzle to be adjusted with great precision, in particular quasi-continuously. Specifically, the size of the free cross-sectional area can be adjusted quasi-continuously by means of the pressure control element. This gives the operator the impression that the pressure in the section of the main line between the high-pressure pump and the spray nozzle can be continuously set, in particular adjusted.It can be provided that the pressure of the liquid in the main line between the high-pressure pump and the spray nozzle can be continuously adjusted using the pressure control element, particularly when the main line valve is fully open. This allows for convenient operation of the high-pressure cleaner. The pressure in the main line in the section between the high-pressure pump and the spray nozzle can be precisely adjusted to the respective operating conditions.
[0020] In a particular embodiment of the invention, the high-pressure cleaning device is designed such that the motor's operating state can only be changed between the off and on states when the valve is fully open. This prevents the motor and high-pressure pump from exerting high pressure on the main line valve while pumping the liquid. Because the high-pressure cleaning device is designed so that the motor's operating state can only be changed when the main line valve is fully open, the motor can only be switched from the on to the off state when the main line valve is fully open.This ensures that the pressure present in the main line due to the high-pressure pump's operation can at least partially dissipate when the motor is switched from the on to the off position. This prevents the main line valve from being subjected to high pressure after being switched to the closed position. The components involved in switching the motor on and off are not subjected to any pressure, or only to low pressure, from the fluid pumped by the pump. Due to the lower pressure in the main line, especially when the valve is closed and the motor is off, only minimal force is required to adjust the valve to the fully open position. The operator only needs to exert minimal force, as they do not have to work against high fluid pressure in the main line.This enables convenient use of the high-pressure cleaning device according to the invention.
[0021] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained below with reference to the drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a pump unit of a high-pressure cleaner, Figs. 2 and 3 perspective views of a hand-held spray unit of the high-pressure cleaner, Fig. 4 a side view of the hand-held spray unit according to the Fig. 2 and 3 Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a high-pressure cleaning device with unactuated pressure control element and unactuated valve control element, Fig. 6 a schematic representation of the high-pressure cleaning device made of Fig. 5 with actuated valve control element and unactuated pressure control element, Fig. 7 a schematic representation of the high-pressure cleaning device made of Fig. 5with actuated valve control element and with actuated pressure control element, Fig. 8 a schematic representation of the hand-held spray unit of the high-pressure cleaning device made of Fig. 5 with actuated valve control element and actuated pressure control element, wherein the hand of the actuating user is schematically represented, Fig. 9 a sectional view of a section through the hand-held spraying unit made of the Figs. 2 to 4 With the pressure control element and valve control element unactuated, Fig. 10 shows a sectional view analogous to Fig. 9 With the valve control element actuated and the pressure control element unactuated, Fig. 11 shows a sectional view analogous to the sectional view from Fig. 9 With the valve control element and pressure control element actuated, Fig. 12 shows a detail from Fig. 9 and Fig. 13 a representation of a detail from Fig. 11 .
[0022] Fig. 1 shows a pump unit 18 of a in Fig. 5schematically illustrated high-pressure cleaning device 1. In a first embodiment, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 comprises a Fig. 2 The spray unit 11 shown. In a second embodiment, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 comprises a spray unit 11. Fig. 5 illustrated injection unit 11. As in Fig. 5 As shown, the pump unit 18 and the dispensing unit 11 are fluidically connected to each other via a main line 5. In the second embodiment, the dispensing unit 11 is a gun. This is shown in Fig. 5 schematically represented. However, it may also be provided that the dispensing unit 11 comprises a gun and a lance, as shown in the Figs. 2 to 4 The following description applies to both embodiments unless explicitly stated otherwise – even if the corresponding features are only described in connection with one of the figures.
[0023] The high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the spray unit 11, is designed for cleaning objects with pressurized cleaning fluid. In the exemplary embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is portable. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 has a Fig. 1 The illustrated handle 23 is attached. The high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the pump unit 18 of the high-pressure cleaning device 1, can be carried on the handle 23. In normal operation, the high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the pump unit 18, is intended to be switched off.
[0024] As in Fig. 5As shown, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 has a high-pressure pump 3. The high-pressure pump 3 is part of the pump unit 18. The cleaning fluid in the high-pressure cleaning device 1, particularly in the pump unit 18, can be pressurized by means of the high-pressure pump 3. The cleaning fluid can be pressurized to a pressure of at least 10 bar, in particular at least 15 bar, in particular at least 30 bar, and in particular at least 100 bar, by means of the high-pressure pump 3. In particular, the cleaning fluid can be pressurized to a maximum pressure of 600 bar, in particular at most 500 bar, by means of the high-pressure pump 3. The high-pressure pump 3 comprises at least one piston (not shown). The at least one piston is movable back and forth to generate pressure on the cleaning fluid. Typically, the high-pressure pump 3 comprises three pistons.
[0025] As in the Fig. 1 and 5As shown, the high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the pump unit 18, comprises a connection 2 for a liquid source 17. In the exemplary embodiments, the liquid source 17 is an external liquid source. In these exemplary embodiments, the external liquid source is the tap of a domestic water supply. It can also be provided that the liquid source is an integral part of the high-pressure cleaning device 1. The high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the handheld spray unit 11, comprises a spray opening 6. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 comprises the main line 5. The main line 5 of the high-pressure cleaning device 1 fluidically connects the connection 2 to the spray opening 6. The connection 2 is arranged on the pump unit 18. The spray opening 6 is arranged on the spray unit 11. In the exemplary embodiment according to the Figs. 2 to 4The dispensing opening 6 is arranged on a lance 28 of the dispensing unit 11. In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 5 The dispensing opening 6 is arranged on the dispensing unit 11, which is designed as a pistol.
[0026] By means of the high-pressure pump 3, liquid can be pumped through the main line 5 from the connection 2 to the spray opening 6. The liquid source 17 supplies liquid to the main line 5. The high-pressure pump 3 is located in the main line 5. The high-pressure pump 3 pressurizes the liquid. The high-pressure pump 3 is located between a suction chamber 9 and a pressure chamber 10 of the main line 5. This is shown in Fig. 5The main line 5 has a suction chamber 9 between the connection 2 and the high-pressure pump 3. The main line 5 has a pressure chamber 10 between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray opening 6. In the exemplary embodiments, the suction chamber 9 is formed by a section of the main line 5 between the connection 2 and the high-pressure pump 3. In the exemplary embodiments, the pressure chamber 10 is formed by a section of the main line 5 between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray opening 6. This section of the main line 5 extends, in particular, precisely from the high-pressure pump 3 to precisely the spray opening 6. The high-pressure pump 3 pumps liquid from the suction chamber 9 to the pressure chamber 10. The pressure in the pressure chamber 10 is higher than in the suction chamber 9. The suction chamber 9 and the pressure chamber 10 are components of the main line 5. Downstream of the high-pressure pump 3, the pressure in the main line 5 is higher than upstream of the high-pressure pump 3.
[0027] The high-pressure pump 3 is arranged in the pump unit 18. The high-pressure pump 3 is separate from the spray unit 11. Various spray units 11 can be connected to the high-pressure pump 3. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 has a motor 4 to drive the high-pressure pump 3. The motor 4 is arranged in the pump unit 18. The motor 4 can be a brushless DC motor. A brushless DC motor is also called an EC motor. The motor can also be a universal motor. In the exemplary embodiments, the motor 4 is an induction motor. In an induction motor, a rotating magnetic field of the stator sets the rotor in motion. The induction motor in the exemplary embodiments is operated with alternating current. The voltage source can be provided, for example, by the mains voltage.If battery or rechargeable battery operation is intended, the motor can also be a brushless DC motor. In this case, the battery may be integrated into the high-pressure cleaner 1. Specifically, the pump unit 18 may be integrated into the handheld spray unit 11. In this case, the entire high-pressure cleaner 1 is portable and handheld during operation.
[0028] As in Fig. 5 As shown, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 includes a main switch 19. The main switch 19 serves to interrupt the power supply to the entire high-pressure cleaning device 1. The main switch 19 is arranged on the pump unit 18.
[0029] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 comprises a main line valve 8. The main line valve 8 is arranged in the main line 5. In the exemplary embodiments, the main line valve 8 is arranged in the spray unit 11. The main line valve 8 has two valve states. The two valve states include a closed state 20 ( Fig. 5 ) and a fully open state 40 ( Fig. 6In the fully open position 40, the main line valve 8 allows liquid to flow through the main line 5. In the fully open position 40, the flow cross-section of the main line 5 at the position of the main line valve 8 is at its maximum. Further opening of the main line valve 8 does not result in a larger flow cross-section for the liquid in the main line 5 at the position of the main line valve 8 when it is fully open 40. In the closed position 20, the main line valve 8 prevents liquid from flowing through the main line 5, in particular completely. When the main line valve 8 is fully open 40, liquid is sprayed out of the spray opening 6 during operation of the high-pressure cleaning device 1. When the main line valve 8 is closed 20, no liquid is sprayed out of the spray opening 6.In the exemplary embodiments, the main line valve 8 is arranged between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray opening 6. However, it can also be provided that the main line valve 8 is arranged in the pump unit 18. It can also be provided that the main line valve 8 is arranged between the connection 17 and the high-pressure pump 3.
[0030] The high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the spray unit 11, has an operating device 7. The operating device 7 is separate from the main switch 19. The main line valve 8 can be switched between the fully open state 20 and the closed state 40 by means of the operating device 7. In the exemplary embodiments, the operating device 7 is arranged on the spray unit 11.
[0031] The operating device 7 comprises a valve control element 41 and a pressure control element 42. The pressure control element 42 can be operated independently of the valve control element 41. The high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the spray unit 11, is designed such that the valve control element 41 can be actuated without actuating the pressure control element 42. It is possible that the high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the spray unit 11, is designed such that the pressure control element 42 can be actuated without simultaneously actuating the valve control element 41. However, such a coupling can also be provided. In particular, it can be provided that the pressure control element 42 can be mechanically pressed without simultaneously pressing the valve control element 41.In the exemplary embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the pressure control element 42 does not trigger any function when actuated without simultaneously actuating the valve control element 41. In this case, no change in pressure in the main line 5 is triggered by the pressure control element 42. This separation of mechanical actuation and functional release is achieved through control technology.
[0032] The main line valve 8 can be switched between the fully open state 40 and the closed state 20 by means of the valve control element 41. The pressure of the liquid in the main line 5 in the section between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray outlet 6 can be set by means of the pressure control element 42. The pressure of the liquid in the pressure chamber 10 can also be set by means of the pressure control element 42. In particular, the pressure of the liquid in the main line 5 in the section between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray outlet 6 can be set by means of the pressure control element 42 when the main line valve 8 is fully open 40. It may be provided that the pressure of the liquid in the main line 5 in the section between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray outlet 6 can be adjusted by means of the pressure control element 42.
[0033] As in Fig. 5As shown, the high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the pump unit 18, has a bypass line 12. The pressure chamber 10 is fluidically connected to the suction chamber 9 via the bypass line 12. The bypass line 12 also allows for a further fluidic connection between the suction chamber 9 and the pressure chamber 10, separate from the fluidic connection between the suction chamber 9 and the pressure chamber 10 via the high-pressure pump 3.
[0034] When the high-pressure pump 3 is in operation, the pressure in pressure chamber 10 is higher than in suction chamber 9. Due to this pressure gradient, fluid can flow from pressure chamber 10 to suction chamber 9 through bypass line 12. A bypass valve 13 is located in bypass line 12. The free cross-sectional area of the bypass line 12 can be adjusted by means of the bypass valve 13. This allows the pressure in pressure chamber 10 to be regulated. With a larger free cross-sectional area, pressure equalization between pressure chamber 10 and suction chamber 9 occurs to a greater extent. If a high pressure is desired in pressure chamber 10, the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line 12 is reduced by means of the bypass valve 13. The larger the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line 12, and especially of the bypass valve 13, the greater the volume flow through the bypass line 13, and especially through the bypass valve 13, during operation, under otherwise unchanged conditions.
[0035] The bypass valve 13 can be adjusted incrementally or continuously between a fully closed and a fully open state. Between the fully closed and fully open states, the bypass valve 13 can have different degrees of closure. In the exemplary embodiments, the bypass valve 13 is continuously adjustable, at least in sections. It can also be provided that the bypass valve is continuously adjustable without interruption between the fully closed and fully open states. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the bypass valve 13 adjusts the size of the free cross-sectional area depending on the adjustment position of the pressure control element 42. In particular, the size of the free cross-sectional area can be adjusted by means of the pressure control element 42 in at least six, and especially in at least ten, steps.It can also be provided that the size of the free cross-sectional area is continuously adjustable by means of the pressure control element. In the exemplary embodiments, the size of the free cross-sectional area is adjustable by means of the pressure control element 42, in particular in a maximum of 30, and in particular in a maximum of 20 steps. In the exemplary embodiments, the size of the free cross-sectional area is quasi-continuously adjustable by means of the pressure control element 42.
[0036] The term "quasi-continuous" in this context means that the different pressure levels are so close together that it appears to the user as if the pressure is being continuously adjusted when he operates the pressure control element 42.
[0037] Depending on the degree of closure of the bypass valve 13, the volume flow rate of the liquid in the main line can be adjusted. The more the bypass valve 13 is closed, the smaller the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line 12. The more the bypass valve 13 is closed, the greater the volume flow rate of the liquid in the main line 5, particularly in the section between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray outlet 6. The more the bypass valve 13 is closed, the greater the volume flow rate of the liquid in the main line 5 at the spray outlet 6.
[0038] The bypass valve 13 is adjustable by means of the operating device 7, in particular by means of the pressure control element 42. In the exemplary embodiments, the pressure control element 42 serves to adjust the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line 12. By adjusting the bypass valve 13, the pressure in the main line 5, in particular in the pressure chamber 10, especially at the discharge opening 6, can be regulated. It can also be provided that the pressure in the pressure chamber is regulated in another way. For example, instead of using the bypass line and the bypass valve, the motor speed of the motor 4 can be varied. In this case, the pressure control element 42 serves to specify, in particular to set, a motor speed of the motor 4.
[0039] The operating device 7 can be used to switch the main line valve 8 between the fully open state 20 and the closed state 40, as well as to specify, in particular adjust, the pressure in the main line 5 in the section between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray opening 6.
[0040] The spray unit 11 is movable relative to the pump unit 18. In the exemplary embodiments, the main line 5 between the pump unit 18 and the spray unit 11 is designed as a flexible hose. The spray opening 6 is located on the spray unit 11. The spray unit 11 can be directed with its spray opening 6 at an object to be cleaned. The spray unit 11 is handheld. The operating device 7 is located on the spray unit 11. A user can guide the spray unit 11 with one hand and simultaneously operate the operating device 7 with the same hand.
[0041] The handheld spray unit 11 has a grip area 14. The operating device 7 is located in the grip area 14. Both the valve control element 41 and the pressure control element 42 are located in the grip area 14. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed so that a user can hold the handheld spray unit 11 with one hand by gripping the handle area 14 and simultaneously operate the operating device 7, in particular both the valve control element 41 and the pressure control element 42, with the same hand. This is particularly advantageous in Fig. 8The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed in such a way that a user can hold the handheld spray unit 11 with one hand by grasping the handle area 14 and simultaneously operate the control device 7, in particular both the valve control element 41 and the pressure control element 42, with only three-jointed fingers of the same hand. In particular, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed in such a way that a user can hold the handheld spray unit 11 with one hand by grasping the handle area 14 and simultaneously operate the control device 7, in particular both the valve control element 41 and the pressure control element 42, with a single finger, in particular with a single three-jointed finger.
[0042] In the exemplary embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device is designed such that a user can hold the hand-held spray unit 11 by grasping the handle area 14 with one hand and simultaneously operate the control device 7 with only a single three-segmented finger of the same hand, in particular with the index finger.
[0043] In typical operation of the high-pressure cleaning device 1, particularly the spray unit 11, operation of the control device 7 with the thumb is not intended. However, it may be possible to operate the control device 7 with the thumb in exceptional cases and special operating situations. This is typically the case when cleaning a roof.
[0044] The pressure control element 42 can be operated with a single three-jointed finger when gripping the handle area 14. While the pressure control element 42 is being operated with this single three-jointed finger, the valve control element 41 can be operated with another three-jointed finger of the same hand.
[0045] The operating device 7 is biased into an unactuated state. Both the valve control element 41 and the pressure control element 42 are independently biased into an unactuated state. A spring, not shown in the figures, can be used for this purpose in each case.
[0046] In the exemplary embodiments, the operating device 7 is designed such that the pressure control element 41 can only be actuated when the valve control element 42 is actuated. However, it can also be provided that the pressure control element 41 can be actuated when the valve control element 42 is not actuated.
[0047] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that when the valve control element 42 is actuated, the main line valve 8 is transferred from the fully closed state 20 to the fully open state 40.
[0048] The pressure control element 41 is located within a Fig. 5 The pressure control element 41 is adjustable within the illustrated adjustment range 31. Within this adjustment range 31, the pressure control element 41 can assume various adjustment positions. It may be provided that the pressure control element 41 is adjustable only in steps. In the exemplary embodiments, the pressure control element 41 is continuously adjustable to different positions within the adjustment range 31.
[0049] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 includes a detector 15. The detector 15 is in the Figs. 5 to 8 schematically represented. In the sectional views of the technical drawings according to the Figs. 9 to 11The detector 15 is shown in more detail. The detector 15 is designed to detect an adjustment position of the pressure control element 41 of the operating device 7. The detector 15 can detect any continuous adjustment position of the pressure control element 41 within the adjustment range 31. The detector 15 can be a Hall sensor. In the exemplary embodiment, the detector 15 is a potentiometer. The operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, and the detector 15 are arranged on the injection unit 11 such that the detection of the adjustment position of the pressure control element 41 is possible. The pressure control element 41 interacts with the detector 15 at least indirectly. In the exemplary embodiments, a mechanical connecting element 44 is arranged between the detector 15 and the pressure control element 42, as shown in the Figs. 9 to 11The mechanical connecting element 44 couples the pressure control element 42 and the detector 15. The pressure control element 42 interacts with the detector 15 via the mechanical connecting element 44.
[0050] The detector 15 has a position element 45. The position element 45 is adjustable along a maximum detector path sm. The maximum detector path sm and the position element 45 are described in the Figs. 12 and 13 The image is shown enlarged. Based on the detector path s traveled by a position element 45 of the detector 15 along its maximum detector path sm, the detector 15 determines the value of the pressure in the main line 5 as specified by the pressure control element 42. In the exemplary embodiments, the position element 45 is a slide of the detector 15, which is designed as a potentiometer. However, it is also possible for the position element to be a magnet of the detector, which is designed as a Hall sensor. Fig. 12The position element 45 is shown when the pressure control element 42 is not actuated. Fig. 13 Figure 45 shows the position element 45 when the pressure control element 45 is fully actuated. Actuation of the pressure control element 45 causes the position element 45 to be moved along the detector travel s along the maximum detector travel sm. In this movement, the position element 45 is moved relative to a measuring unit of the detector 15, in this embodiment a coil. The change in position of the position element 45 is detected by the measuring unit of the detector 15. The mechanical connecting element 44 mechanically connects the position element 45 and the pressure control element 42.
[0051] As especially in the Figs. 5 to 7As shown, the pressure control element 42 is adjustable along a travel path within an adjustment range 31 from a rest position 37 to positions with increasing distance from the rest position 37. The pressure control element 42 reaches its maximum distance from the rest position 37 in an end position 38. In the end position 38, the pressure control element has traversed its maximum travel path wm. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that, with increasing distance of the pressure control element 42 from the rest position 37, the pressure of the liquid in the section of the main line 5 between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray opening 6, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, increases or at least does not decrease. In the exemplary embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that, with increasing distance of the pressure control element 42 from the rest position 37, the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line 12 is reduced and / or at least not increased by the bypass valve 13.A smaller volume of the fluid pumped by the high-pressure pump 3 can flow back from the pressure chamber 10 to the suction chamber 9 via the bypass line 12. In the end position 38, the pressure in the section of the main line 5 between the high-pressure pump 3 and the discharge opening 6, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, is at its maximum for the fully open state 40 of the main line valve 8.
[0052] It can be provided that the pressure remains constant along a section of the adjustment range. In particular, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 can be designed such that the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line 12 remains the same along a section of the adjustment range, i.e., in several adjacent adjustment positions. In this way, several different pressure levels can be provided. Such a pressure level can be selected by adjusting the pressure control element 42 to adjustment positions within a section of the adjustment range with a constant free cross-sectional area of the bypass line. Several pressure levels can be provided.
[0053] The distance to the rest position 37 refers to the distance of a reference point on the pressure control element 42. In the exemplary embodiments, the pressure control element 42 is a pivot lever that can be pivoted about a pressure control element pivot axis 52. In the exemplary embodiment, the reference point is the point on the pressure control element 42 with the greatest distance to the pressure control element pivot axis 52. This point is referred to as the pressure point 54 and is shown in the Figs. 9 to 11 The pressure point 54 is located on the side of the pressure control element 42 that is actuated by the operator, with respect to the pressure control element pivot axis 52. The corresponding distance of the pressure point 54 to the pressure control element pivot axis 52 is referred to as the maximum pressure distance d. In the exemplary embodiments, the rest position 37 is defined by the position of the reference point when the pressure control element 42 is not actuated.
[0054] When the pressure control element 42, designed as a pivot lever, is actuated in its rest position 37, the pressure control element 42 – and thus also the reference point – pivots along its travel path within the adjustment range 31. In this case, the travel path is a segment of a circle. The distance of the pressure control element 42 to its rest position 37 corresponds to the distance of the reference point to its rest position 37, measured along the circular travel path. For clarity, the travel path is shown in the Figs. 9 to 11 radially slightly offset from pressure point 54. In fact, the arc segment line runs from the position of pressure point 54 in Fig. 9The pressure point 54 moves along a circular path with respect to the pivoting movement about the pressure control pivot axis 52. It is also possible to measure the distance as an angular distance between the reference point and the rest position with respect to a pivoting movement about the pressure control pivot axis 52.
[0055] The pressure control element 42 is adjustable along its maximum travel wm ( Figs. 5 to 7 and 9 and 11The maximum travel wm of the pressure control element 42 is at least 110%, in particular at least 150%, and in particular at least 200% of the maximum detector travel sm of the position element 45. The movement of the pressure control element 42 along its travel is translated into a movement of the position element 45 along its travel. A pivoting movement of the pressure control element 42 is thereby converted into a linear movement of the position element 45. For this purpose, the mechanical connecting element 45 comprises several joints.
[0056] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the bypass valve 13 adjusts the size of the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line 12 depending on the adjustment position of the pressure control element 42. For this purpose, the detector 15 detects the adjustment position of the pressure control element 42 and generates a signal, based on which the bypass valve 13 is adjusted.
[0057] In the exemplary embodiments, the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42 and the valve control element 41, protrudes from the grip area 14. The grip area 14 particularly defines a Fig. 8The illustrated handle opening 29 penetrates the dispensing unit 11 completely, particularly in the direction of the pressure control pivot axis 52, and especially in the direction of the valve control pivot axis 51. When grasping and / or holding the dispensing unit 11, the operator reaches through the handle opening 29 with their hand, particularly with one or more of their fingers, especially three-fingered fingers. The handle opening 29 is bounded on the side opposite the grip area 14 by a hand guard 32. The handle opening 29 has a fully circumferential rim. In the exemplary embodiments, the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42 and the valve control element 41, project into the handle opening 29. This is particularly the case when the operating device 7 is not actuated.
[0058] In the exemplary embodiments, the valve control element 41 is a [unclear] by means of a [unclear] in the Figs. 9 to 11The illustrated valve control element pivot axis 51 is a pivoting lever. In particular, the pressure control element 42 is a pivoting lever that can be moved into the Figs. 9 to 11 illustrated pressure control element swivel axis 52 swiveling swivel lever.
[0059] The valve control element 41 has a valve point 53. The valve point 53 is the point of the valve control element 41 that, with respect to the position of the valve control element pivot axis 51, is located on the side of the valve control element 41 facing the handle area 14 and that has the maximum valve distance v to the valve control element pivot axis 51. Specifically, the valve point 53 is the point of the valve control element 41 that has the maximum valve distance v to the valve control element pivot axis 51. In particular, the valve point 53 is the point of the valve control element 41 that, with respect to the position of the valve control element pivot axis 51, is located on the side of the valve control element 41 facing the handle area 14, that has the maximum valve distance v to the valve control element pivot axis 51, and that can simultaneously be actuated with a finger when the valve control element 41 is in the unactuated state.In other words, the valve point 53 is not covered by any other components, in particular not by the housing that limits the handle opening 29, so that it is accessible with a finger.
[0060] The pressure control element 42 has the one in the Figs. 9 to 11 Pressure point 54 is shown. Pressure point 54 is the point on the pressure control element 42 that, with respect to the position of the pressure control element pivot axis 52, is located on the side of the pressure control element 42 facing the grip area 14 and that has the maximum pressure distance d to the pressure control element pivot axis 52. In particular, pressure point 54 is the point on the pressure control element 42 that has the maximum pressure distance d to the pressure control element pivot axis 52.
[0061] The maximum valve distance v is greater than the maximum pressure distance d. This allows the valve control element 41 to be operated by a user with a longer lever arm than the pressure control element 42. In the exemplary embodiments, the maximum valve distance v is at least 150%, and in particular at least 200%, of the maximum pressure distance d.
[0062] As in the Figs. 2 to 4 and especially in the Figs. 9 to 11As can be seen, the valve control element 41 has a recess 43. The pressure control element 42 is at least partially received in the recess 43. In particular, the pressure control element 42 projects out of the recess 43 of the valve control element 41. Specifically, the pressure control element 42 projects out of the recess 43 of the valve control element 41 into the handle opening 29. The recess 43 has a rim. This rim is continuous. In particular, the rim is continuous around the pressure control element 42. The rim defines an opening area of the recess. The pressure control element 42 extends through this opening area into the valve control element 41.When the pressure control element 42 is fully actuated, i.e., when the pressure control element 42 is pivoted maximally towards the valve control element 41, and especially when the valve control element itself is fully actuated, the pressure control element 42 disappears almost completely into the valve control element 41. In particular, the pressure control element 42 is integrated into the valve control element 41. When the pressure control element 42 is depressed, one and the same finger can simultaneously rest with a portion of the finger against the pressure control element 42 and another portion of the finger against the valve control element 41. In this case, the pressure control element 42 is recessed in the recess 43 of the valve control element 41.
[0063] In the exemplary embodiments, the pressure control element 42 is pivotably mounted on the valve control element 41. The pressure control element pivot axis 52 extends through the valve control element 41. In particular, the pressure control element pivot axis 52 is arranged at a distance a from the valve control element pivot axis 51. When the valve control element 41 pivots about the valve control element pivot axis 51, the pressure control element pivot axis 52 pivots together with the valve control element 41. The pressure control element pivot axis 52 is located on the side of the valve control element 41 facing the handle area 14, relative to the valve control element pivot axis 51.When the operating device 7 is moved from the unactuated state to the fully actuated state (when both the valve control element 41 and the pressure control element 42 are maximally actuated), the pressure point 54 of the pressure control element follows a path resulting from the superposition of two pivoting movements. Firstly, the pressure control element pivot axis 52 is pivoted about the valve control element pivot axis 51; secondly, the pressure point 54 is pivoted about the pressure control element pivot axis 52. Therefore, the pressure point 54 is pivoted about both the valve control element pivot axis 51 and the pressure control element pivot axis 52.
[0064] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed so that a user can hold the handheld spray unit 11 with one hand by gripping the handle area 14 and simultaneously operate the control element 7 using only three-jointed fingers of the same hand. This is in Fig. 8It may also be provided that the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed in such a way that a user can hold the handheld spray unit 11 by grasping the handle area with one hand and at the same time operate the control element with only a single three-jointed finger of the same hand, in particular with the index finger.
[0065] As in Fig. 8 The grip area 14 is shown as being grasped by a single user's hand. The hand has a thumb 61. The thumb 61 is a two-jointed finger. The hand has four three-jointed fingers. The three-jointed fingers are an index finger 62, a middle finger 63, a ring finger 64, and a little finger 65.
[0066] The grip area 14 has a thumb side 33 and a control element side 34. The control device 7, in particular the valve control element 41 and the pressure control element 42, is arranged on the control element side 34. The thumb side 33 of the grip area 14 is designed for the support of the thumb 41. The control element side 34 is designed for the support of the three-jointed fingers 62, 63, 64, 65. The thumb side 33 and the control element side 34 are opposite each other. The grip area 14 extends along a longitudinal axis 48. In a side view of the grip area 14, the longitudinal axis 48 runs between the thumb side 46 and the control element side 47. The grip area 14 is essentially rod-shaped. In particular, the longitudinal axis 48 runs longitudinally along the grip area 14. The longitudinal axis 48 is, in particular, straight.The longitudinal axis 48 of the handle does not intersect the grip area 14, which is intended for finger placement. The longitudinal axis 48 of the handle runs approximately centrally through the grip area 14. When the valve control element 41 is fully actuated, the longitudinal axis 48 of the handle runs approximately, and in particular exactly, parallel to a portion of the handle surface of the valve control element 41.
[0067] During the dispensing of liquid, the dispensing unit 11 can be held with a single hand. The grip area 14 can be grasped with all fingers 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, including the thumb 61. The thumb 61 does not need to be used to adjust the pressure in the section of the main line 5 between the high-pressure pump 3 and the dispensing opening 6.
[0068] Middle finger 63, ring finger 64 and little finger 65 rest against the valve control element 41. The valve control element 41 can be actuated using middle finger 63, ring finger 64 and little finger 65.
[0069] The extension of the pressure control element 42 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 48 of the handle is smaller than the extension of the valve control element 41 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 48 of the handle. The extension of the pressure control element 42 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 48 of the handle is at most 50%, in particular at most 30%, of the extension of the valve control element 41 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 48 of the handle.
[0070] The handle opening 29 has an opening length 1 measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis 48 of the handle. The opening length 1 corresponds, in particular, to the greatest distance, measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis 48 of the handle, between the edge sections of the handle opening 29. The valve control element 41 extends at least over the entire opening length l. The valve control element 41 extends at most 150%, in particular 130%, of the opening length l. The pressure control element 42 extends at most 50%, in particular at most 30%, of the opening length l. The pressure control element 42 extends at least 10% of the opening length 1. This allows the pressure control element 42 to be operated with the index finger 62 and simultaneously the valve control element 41 with the middle finger 63, the ring finger 64 and / or the little finger 65 of the same hand. The pressure point 54 ( Fig. 9The pressure control element 42 is located closer to the valve control element pivot axis 51 than the valve point 53 of the valve control element 41. In particular, the pressure control element 42 extends from an upper edge of the handle opening 29, which is located closer to the valve control element pivot axis 51 than an opposite lower edge of the handle opening 29.
[0071] The index finger 62 rests against the pressure control element 42. The pressure control element 42 can be operated using the index finger 62. It is possible to operate the pressure control element 42 exclusively using the index finger 62. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the pressure in the section of the main line 5 between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray nozzle 6 can be adjusted by a single three-segmented finger, in this embodiment by the index finger 62. Simultaneously, the spray unit 11 can be held and guided with the same hand. Spraying liquid is convenient and safe while operating the pressure control element 42. The thumb 61 can be used to securely hold the spray unit 11. The thumb 61 does not need to be used to operate a button or lever.
[0072] The high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the spray unit 11, is designed so that the operating device 7 can be operated by a user during the use of the high-pressure cleaning device 1 both for switching the main line valve 8 between the fully open state 40 and the closed state 20 and for adjusting the pressure in the pressure chamber 10, in particular for adjusting the bypass valve 13, using only three-jointed fingers 62, 63, 64, 65 of the same hand.
[0073] The use of the operating device 7 is in the Figures 5 to 7 chronologically beginning with the closed state 20 of the main line valve 8 in the unactuated state 30 of the operating device 7, in particular in the unactuated state of the pressure control element 42 ( Fig. 5) and ending with the main line valve 8 fully open (40) and a bypass valve 13 fully closed (50) Fig. 7 ) the operating device 7, in which both the valve control element 41 and the pressure control element 42 are fully, in particular maximally, actuated.
[0074] In Fig. 5 The operating device 7 is in the unactuated state 30. Neither the valve control element 41 nor the pressure control element 42 is actuated. The main line valve 8 is closed. No liquid is ejected from the dispensing opening 6. The bypass valve 13 is fully open. The pressure in the pressure chamber 10 is thereby minimized for the closed state 20 of the main line valve 8.
[0075] Starting from the in Fig. 5In the depicted unactuated state 30 of the operating device 7, the valve control element 41 of the operating device 7 is first actuated. This moves the main line valve 8 from the closed state 20 to the open state 40.
[0076] This semi-actuated state 60 of the operating device 7, in which only the valve control element 41 and not the pressure control element 42 is actuated, is in Fig. 6 The diagram shows liquid being ejected from the dispensing opening 6. The pressure control element 42 is not actuated. The bypass valve 13 is fully open. The pressure in the section of the main line 5 between the high-pressure pump 3 and the dispensing opening 6, or in the pressure chamber 10, is minimal for the fully open state 40 of the main line valve 8.
[0077] During the transition from the in Fig. 6 the depicted semi-actuated state 60 of the operating device 7 to the one in Fig. 7In the fully actuated state 50 of the operating device 7 shown, the valve control element 41 remains actuated. The main line valve 8 remains in the fully open state 40. The pressure control element 42 is slightly actuated, specifically in an adjustment position between the unactuated and the fully actuated states of the pressure control element 42. The pressure control element 42 assumes an adjustment position between the rest position 37 ( Fig. 6 ) and an end position 38 ( Fig. 7 ) of the pressure control element 42. The bypass valve 13 is neither fully open nor fully closed, but half open. The pressure in the section of the main line 5 between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray opening 6, or in the pressure chamber 10, is greater than in Fig. 6 , but smaller than in Fig. 7 .
[0078] In Fig. 7The pressure control element 42 is moved to the end position 38. The bypass valve 13 is completely closed. No more liquid can flow back from the pressure chamber 10 into the suction chamber 9 through the bypass line 12. The pressure in the pressure chamber 10 is at its maximum for the open state 40 of the main line valve 8. The valve control element 41 remains fully actuated. The main line valve 8 remains in the fully open state 40. The operating device 7 is in the fully actuated state 50. Liquid is ejected from the discharge opening 6 at maximum pressure.
[0079] Based on the one in Fig. 7 The depicted state can be found in the Figs. 7 to 5 depicted states in reverse order until the Fig. 5The illustrated state is traversed to stop the ejection of liquid from the ejection opening 6. First, the pressure control element 42 is released, causing the pressure in the pressure chamber 10 to drop again because the bypass valve 13 is continuously opened. Finally, the actuation of the valve control element 41 is stopped, so that the main line valve 8 closes and the ejection process ends. The bypass valve 13 is then fully open and ensures pressure equalization between the pressure chamber 10 and the suction chamber 9.
[0080] The high-pressure cleaner 1 has a [feature / component] in the Figs. 5 to 7The control unit 22 is shown. The control unit 22 is arranged in the pump unit 18. It can also be arranged in the spray unit 11. The signal generated by the detector 15 is transmitted directly or indirectly, in particular in the form of a wireless, especially electromagnetic, signal to the control unit 22. The signal received by the control unit 22 is used to change, in particular to adjust, the pressure in the section of the main line 5 between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray opening 6, and in particular to adjust the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line 12 by means of the bypass valve 13. For this purpose, the control unit 22 sends a further signal to the bypass valve 13.
[0081] The bypass valve 13 is adjustable by means of an actuator 16. The actuator 16 is located in the pump unit 18. The actuator 16 allows the bypass valve 13 to be adjusted such that the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line 12 is adjustable. Based on the signal received by the control unit 22 from the detector 15, the control unit 22 generates a further signal, which is transmitted to the actuator 16. In the exemplary embodiment, the further signal is transmitted electrically via a cable. However, it is also possible for the further signal to be transmitted wirelessly, in particular electromagnetically. Based on the further signal, the actuator 16 adjusts the bypass valve 13. The actuator 16 allows the bypass valve 13 to be adjusted so that a continuous adjustment of the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line 12 is possible.The size of the free cross-sectional area can be continuously adjusted, at least section by section, by means of the operating device 7, in particular by means of the pressure control element 42.
[0082] In the exemplary embodiment, the main line valve 8 is opened mechanically by the valve control element 41. In the exemplary embodiments, the main line valve 8 comprises a [missing information - likely a specific element or component] in the Figs. 9 to 11The diagram shows a valve spring 73, a valve member 74, and a valve seat 75. The valve spring 73 biases the valve member 74 against the valve seat 75. In the unactuated state of the valve control element 41, the valve spring 73 presses the valve member 74 against the valve seat 75. The main line valve 8 is in the closed position 20. When the valve control element 41 is actuated, a force acts on the main line valve 8, which moves the main line valve 8 from the closed position 20 to the fully open position 40. The valve control element 41 acts, in particular with its side facing away from the handle area 14 with respect to the valve control element pivot axis 51, especially its longitudinal end, on a valve tappet 76 of the main line valve 8, so that the valve tappet 76 moves the valve member 74 away from the valve seat 75 against the force of the valve spring 73, and in this way brings the main line valve 8 into the fully open state 40.Then liquid can flow through the main line 5 to the dispensing opening 6.
[0083] In the exemplary embodiments, the control unit 22 receives a signal when the valve control element 41 is actuated. The control unit 22 only allows a change in pressure as a result of actuating the pressure control element 42 if a signal originating from actuating the valve control element 41 is also simultaneously received in the control unit 22. However, it can also be provided that the pressure adjustment is possible independently of actuating the valve control element 41.
[0084] The motor 4 of the high-pressure cleaner 1, in particular the pump unit 18, has two operating states. These two operating states comprise an on state and an off state. In the off state, the motor 4 is off. No electrical power is supplied to operate the motor 4. In the on state, the motor 4 is running. In the on state, the motor 4 is driven by electrical power.
[0085] The high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the spray unit 11, is designed in all embodiments such that the motor 4 can be set to one of two operating states by means of the control device 7, in particular by means of the valve control element 41. The motor 4 can be switched from the off state to the on state by means of the control device 7, in particular by means of the valve control element 41.
[0086] The high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the spray unit 11, is designed in all embodiments such that the operating state of the motor 4 can only be changed when the main line valve 8 is in the fully open position 40. The motor 4 can only be switched from the off state to the on state when the main line valve 8 is in the fully open position 40. The motor 4 can only be switched from the on state to the off state when the valve 8 is in the fully open position 40.
[0087] The high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the spray unit 11, is designed in all embodiments such that the adjustment of the valve state of the main line valve 8 is only possible when the motor 4 is in the off state. The main line valve 8 can only be moved from the closed state 20 to the fully open state 40 when the motor 4 is in the off state. The main line valve 8 can only be moved from the fully open state 40 to the closed state 20 when the motor 4 is in the off state.
[0088] The high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the spray unit 11, is designed in all embodiments such that an electrical signal can be generated directly by the operating device 7, in particular directly by the valve control element 41. In the embodiments, the electrical signal is generated by allowing or preventing a current flow. This involves the... Figs. 9 to 11The illustrated switch 21 is actuated, which closes or opens an electrical circuit and thus allows or prevents current flow. In the exemplary embodiments, the switch 21 is a microswitch. However, it can also be provided that a potentiometer is used instead of the switch 21. In this case, the resistance of the potentiometer is changed by actuating the operating device 7, in particular the valve control element 41, such that current can or cannot flow through the circuit in which the potentiometer is arranged.
[0089] The operating device 7, in particular the valve control element 41, acts mechanically on the switch 21 in the exemplary embodiments and thus directly generates an electrical signal. The interruption of a current flow is also referred to as the generation of an electrical signal or as an electrical signal.
[0090] As a result of the electrical signal generated directly by the control device 7, in particular by the valve control element 41, the motor 4 can be set to at least one of its two operating states in all embodiments. The electrical signal can be an "on" signal or an "off" signal. If the control device 7, in particular the valve control element 41, generates an "on" signal in the embodiments, it allows current to flow in a circuit. If the control device 7, in particular the valve control element 41, generates an "off" signal in the embodiments, it prevents current from flowing in a circuit.
[0091] As a result of the generation of the electrical "on" signal, motor 4 is switched from its "off" state to its "on" state. As a result of the generation of the electrical "off" signal, motor 4 is switched from its "on" state to its "off" state.
[0092] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed in all embodiments such that the setting of the motor 4 into one of the two operating states of the motor 4 as a result of the electrical signal generated directly by the operating device 7, in particular directly by the valve control element 41, is independent of the pressure conditions in the main line 5.
[0093] When the motor 4 is in its on state and the main line valve 8 is in its fully open state 40, fluid is conveyed from the connection 2 through the main line 5 to the spray opening 6 in all embodiments. This state is achieved by actuating the control device 7, in particular by actuating the valve control element 41. Before the high-pressure cleaner 1 is put into operation, the motor 4 is in the off state. The control device 7, in particular the valve control element 41, is not actuated. The main line valve 8 is in the closed state 20. This state of the high-pressure cleaner 1 is described in Fig. 5 or in Fig. 9 As shown. With the main line valve 8 closed and the motor 4 of the high-pressure pump 3 switched off, no fluid is pumped through the main line 5.
[0094] The main line valve 8 is installed according to the embodiments shown below. Figs. 5 to 7or 9 to 11 by means of the valve control element 41 from its in Fig. 5 or Fig. 9 depicted closed state 20 in its in the Fig. 6 and 7 The fully open state 40 is shown in Figures 8 and 9. Only after the main line valve 8 is opened is the electrical signal for switching the motor 4 from its off state to its on state triggered by the valve control element 41. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the motor 4 can only be switched to the on state after the main line valve 8 has ceased to be in the closed state 20. In the exemplary embodiment according to the Figs. 9 to 11The valve control element 41 has a switching arm 24 for this purpose. The switching arm 24 switches the switch 21 in the manner and sequence described. When the valve control element 41 is actuated, the switching arm 24 pivots about the valve control element pivot axis 51 as part of the valve control element 41. During this pivoting movement, the closed state 20 of the main line valve 8 is first ended, i.e., the main line valve 8 is opened, and then the switch 21 is switched by means of the switching arm 24. In the exemplary embodiments, the switch 21 is pressed when the valve control element 41 is not actuated, in particular by the switching arm 24. When the switch is pressed, the electrical power supply to the motor 4 is interrupted. After the valve control element 41 pivots, i.e., when the valve control element 41 is actuated, the switching arm 24 is moved away from the switch 21 in such a way that the switch 21 is no longer pressed.Only when switch 21 is not pressed is the motor 4 supplied with electrical power. The high-pressure pump 3 only pumps fluid when the main line valve 8 is open, specifically in the fully open position 40. When the valve control element 41 is released, switch 21 is first pressed, specifically by means of the switching arm 24, thereby interrupting the supply of electrical power to the motor 4. Only then does the valve control element 41 actuate the main line valve 8, thereby moving it to the closed position 20.
[0095] The switching arm 24 is a projection of the valve control element 41. The switching arm 24 is arranged on the side of the valve control element 41 that faces the handle area 14 with respect to the valve control element pivot axis 51. The main line valve 8 is switched by the side of the valve control element 41, in particular by the longitudinal end of the valve control element 41, that faces away from the handle area 14 with respect to the valve control element axis 41. The valve control element axis 41 is functionally located between the switching arm 24 and the longitudinal end of the valve control element 41 for switching the main line valve 8. The valve control element 41 is pivotably mounted in the injection unit 11, in particular in a housing of the injection unit 11, about the valve control element pivot axis 51.
Claims
1. High-pressure cleaning device comprising: - a connection (2) for a liquid source (17), - a high-pressure pump (3), - a main line (5) through which liquid can be conveyed from the connection (2) to a spray opening (6) of the main line (5) by means of the high-pressure pump (3), - a main line valve (8) arranged in the main line (5), and - an operating device (7), wherein the main line valve (8) prevents the flow of liquid through the main line (5) in a closed state (20), and wherein the main line valve (8) allows the flow of liquid through the main line (5) in a fully open state (40), and wherein the main line valve (8) can be switched between the fully open state (20) and the closed state (40) by means of the operating device (7). characterized by the fact thatthe operating device (7) has a valve control element (41) and a pressure control element (42), such that the pressure control element (42) can be operated independently of the valve control element (41), that the main line valve (8) can be switched between the fully open state (40) and the closed state (20) by means of the valve control element (41), and that the pressure of the liquid in the main line (5) in the section between the high-pressure pump (3) and the spray opening (6), in particular in the fully open state (40) of the main line valve (8), can be preset by means of the pressure control element (42).
2. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) has a hand-held spray unit (11), the spray opening (6) is arranged on the hand-held spray unit (11), and the operating device (7) is arranged on the hand-held spray unit (11).
3. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that the handheld dispensing unit (11) has a grip area (14) so that a user can guide the handheld dispensing unit (11) by gripping the grip area (14), and so that the valve control element (41) and the pressure control element (42) can be operated together with a single hand, in particular with a single finger, of the user when gripping the grip area (14).
4. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 3, characterized by the fact that the pressure control element (42) can be operated with a single three-segmented finger when gripping the handle area (14), and the valve control element (41) can be operated with another three-segmented finger of the same hand while the pressure control element (42) is being operated with the single three-segmented finger.
5. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact thatthe valve control element (42) is a pivoting lever pivotable about a valve control element pivot axis (51), the pressure control element (42) is a pivoting lever pivotable about a pressure control element pivot axis (52), the valve control element (41) has a valve point (53) arranged at a maximum valve distance (v) to the valve control element pivot axis (51), the pressure control element (42) has a pressure point (54) arranged at a maximum pressure distance (d) to the pressure control element pivot axis (52), and the maximum valve distance (v) is greater than the maximum pressure distance (d), in particular the maximum valve distance (v) is at least 150%, in particular at least 200% of the maximum pressure distance (d).
6. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by the fact thatthe valve control element (41) has a recess (43), and the pressure control element (42) is at least partially incorporated into the recess (43), in particular protruding through it.
7. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the pressure control element (42) is pivotably mounted on the valve control element (41), in particular about the pressure control element pivot axis (52).
8. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by the fact that the pressure control element pivot axis (52) is arranged at a distance (a) from the valve control element pivot axis (51).
9. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by the fact that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) has a motor (4) for driving the high-pressure pump (3), that the motor (4) has an off state and an on state, that the motor (4) is adjustable between the off state and the on state by means of the valve control element (41).
10. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by the fact that the high-pressure cleaning device (1) comprises a detector (15), and that the detector (15) is designed to detect an adjustment position of the pressure control element (42), and in particular that the detector (15) has a potentiometer or a Hall sensor.
11. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 10, characterized by the fact thata mechanical connecting element (44) is arranged between the detector (15) and the pressure control element (42), that the detector (15) determines the value of the pressure specified by the pressure control element (42) in the main line (5) based on a detector path (s) traveled by a position element (45) of the detector (15), that the position element (45) is adjustable along a maximum detector path (sm), that the pressure control element (42) is adjustable along a maximum actuation path (wm), and that the maximum actuation path (wm) corresponds to at least 110%, in particular at least 150%, in particular at least 200% of the maximum detector path (sm).
12. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by the fact thatthe main line (5) between the connection (2) and the high-pressure pump (3) has a suction chamber (9), that the main line (5) between the high-pressure pump (3) and the spray opening (6) has a pressure chamber (10), that the pressure chamber (10) is fluidically connected to the suction chamber (9) via a bypass line (12), that a bypass valve (13) is arranged in the bypass line (12), that a free cross-sectional area of the bypass line (12) is adjustable for regulating the pressure in the pressure chamber (10) by means of the bypass valve (13), and that the bypass valve (13) is adjustable for adjusting the free cross-sectional area of the bypass line (12) by means of the pressure control element (42).
13. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by the fact thatby means of the pressure control element (42) the pressure of the liquid in the main line (5) in the section between the high pressure pump (3) and the spray opening (6), in particular in the fully open state (40) of the main line valve (8), can be continuously preset.
14. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized by the fact that The high-pressure cleaning device (1) is designed in such a way that the adjustment of the operating state of the motor (4) between the off state and the on state is only possible when the main line valve (8) is in the fully open state (40).
15. Handheld spray unit (11) for a high-pressure cleaning device, wherein the high-pressure cleaning device (1) comprises: - a connection (2) for a liquid source (17), - a high-pressure pump (3), - a main line (5) through which liquid can be pumped from the connection (2) to a spray opening (6) of the main line (5) by means of the high-pressure pump (3), and - a main line valve (8) arranged in the main line (5), wherein the main line valve (8) prevents the flow of liquid through the main line (5) in a closed state (20), and wherein the main line valve (8) allows the flow of liquid through the main line (5) in a fully open state (40), wherein the handheld spray unit (11) has an operating device (7) for switching between the fully open state (40) and the closed state (20). characterized by the fact thatthe operating device (7) has a valve control element (41) for switching the main line valve (8) between the fully open state (40) and the closed state (20), that the operating device (7) has a pressure control element (42) for specifying the pressure of the liquid in the main line (5) in the section between the high-pressure pump (3) and the spray opening (6), in particular in the fully open state (40) of the main line valve (8), and that the pressure control element (42) can be operated independently of the valve control element (41).
Citation Information
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