High-pressure cleaning device and method for operating a high-pressure cleaning device

Abstract

The invention relates to a high-pressure cleaning device (1) comprising a main line (5) through which liquid can be pumped by means of a high-pressure pump (3), an operating device (7) that generates a control signal dependent on an actuation, in particular on the degree of actuation, of the operating device (7), and a pressure adjusting device (25) that adjusts the pressure in the main line (5) based on the control signal. In a normal mode of the high-pressure cleaning device (1), the pressure in the main line (5) can be adjusted within a normal pressure range by means of the pressure adjusting device (25). During actuation of the operating device (7) in normal mode, the high-pressure cleaning device (1) can be switched to a special mode by means of an operating mode signal. In special mode, a setpoint is determined from one or more control signals and the setpoint is stored, at least temporarily.In special mode, the pressure in the main line (5) can be adjusted within a special pressure range using the pressure adjusting device (25). This special pressure range is limited compared to the normal pressure range. The special pressure range is determined using the setpoint.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a high-pressure cleaning device according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Such a high-pressure cleaning device is known from EP 4 282 546 A1. The pressure in the main line of the high-pressure cleaning device can be influenced by pivoting a lever along a travel path. When the lever is pivoted to different positions along its travel path, the liquid is sprayed out at different pressures. In some applications, a specific pressure or pressure range needs to be precisely maintained or selected. For this, the user must hold the lever in a specific position for an extended period, which is inconvenient.

[0003] The present invention is based on the objective of further developing a generic high-pressure cleaning device in such a way that a specific pressure or pressure range can be conveniently and precisely maintained or selected.

[0004] This problem is solved by a high-pressure cleaning device with the features of claim 1.

[0005] Another object of the invention is to further develop a generic method for operating a high-pressure cleaning device in such a way that a specific pressure or pressure range can be conveniently and precisely maintained or selected.

[0006] This problem is solved by a method having the features of claim 10.

[0007] The high-pressure cleaning device includes a main line through which liquid can be pumped by means of a high-pressure pump. In particular, the high-pressure cleaning device, and especially the main line, includes a spray nozzle. In particular, the high-pressure cleaning device, and especially the main line, includes a connection for a liquid source. In particular, liquid can be pumped from the connection to the spray nozzle through the main line by means of the high-pressure pump.

[0008] The high-pressure cleaning device includes an operating device. The operating device generates a control signal that depends on its actuation. In particular, the control signal depends on the degree of actuation of the operating device. The operating device is adjustable along a travel range. In particular, the operating device is continuously adjustable along this travel range. In particular, each position of the operating device, especially of a pressure control element of the operating device, is associated with the generation of a specific, and in particular different, pressure signal. The high-pressure cleaning device includes a pressure adjustment device. The pressure adjustment device sets the pressure in the main line based on the control signal generated by the operating device. This allows the pressure in the main line to be changed by means of the operating device.The operating device can be used to generate various control signals.

[0009] According to the invention, the high-pressure cleaning device can be switched to a special mode by means of an operating mode signal while the control device is in normal mode. In special mode, a setpoint is determined and stored, at least temporarily. The setpoint is determined from one or more control signals. In special mode, the pressure in the main line can be adjusted within a special pressure range using the pressure adjustment device. The special pressure range is limited compared to the normal pressure range. In particular, the special pressure range lies entirely within the normal pressure range. The special pressure range is determined using the setpoint.

[0010] Because the setpoint is based on one or more control signals, it is indirectly linked to the pressure in the main line set by the pressure control device. Since the special pressure range is determined using the setpoint, the operator can use the information about the main line pressure associated with the setpoint for other functions of the high-pressure cleaner. This function consists of determining the special pressure range using the setpoint. This special pressure range is limited compared to the normal pressure range.The operator can also simply generate a specific control signal using the control device. Without this control signal actually setting the pressure in the main line within the normal pressure range using the pressure adjusting device in normal mode, the operator can determine the setpoint based on this control signal and use this setpoint to define the special pressure range. Because the pressure values ​​to which the pressure adjusting device can set the pressure in the main line are limited to the special pressure range in special mode, a specific pressure or pressure range can be conveniently and precisely maintained or selected.

[0011] In particular, the operating device includes a pressure control element that serves to generate the control signal.

[0012] In particular, the pressure adjustment device in the normal mode of the high-pressure cleaner can only adjust the pressure in the main line within the normal pressure range. Specifically, the operating mode signal is different from the control signal. Specifically, the operating mode signal can be generated by the operator, particularly by operating the high-pressure cleaner.

[0013] In particular, liquid can be sprayed out, especially through the spray nozzle, in the normal mode of the high-pressure cleaner. However, it may also be possible to operate the control device in normal mode without spraying out any liquid. The control signal or signals generated by the control device can also be used in this case to determine a setpoint, which is then stored and used to define the special pressure range.

[0014] In particular, the high-pressure cleaning device includes a control unit. Specifically, the control unit generates a pressure signal based on the control signal it receives. Specifically, the control unit transmits the pressure signal to the pressure setting device. Specifically, the special pressure range is determined using the setpoint, so that in special mode, compared to normal mode, there is a different mapping of incoming control signals to the control unit and outgoing pressure signals.

[0015] In special mode, the control signal generated by the operating device, particularly its pressure control element, at the time of switching to special mode is stored, at least temporarily, as a setpoint. This occurs specifically during liquid spraying. Therefore, if the operator generates a specific control signal using the operating device, and the pressure control device adjusts the pressure in the main line based on this signal, the operator can switch to special mode by triggering the operating mode signal as soon as the high-pressure cleaner sprays liquid at a pressure of interest to the operator. The point in time at which the switch to special mode occurs is determined, in particular, by the point in time at which the operating mode signal is generated.By storing the control signal generated at this time, at least temporarily, as a setpoint, the user can use this setpoint to record, and in particular save, information about the pressure in the main line. With this information, they can trigger further functions of the high-pressure cleaner. In particular, the setpoint determined in this way can be used to define the special pressure range. It can also be provided that, in special mode, the control signal generated by the operating device at the time of switching to special mode is first multiplied by a factor and then stored, at least temporarily, as a setpoint. Similarly, it can be provided that an absolute value is added to or subtracted from the control signal generated at the time of switching to special mode, and the resulting value is stored as a setpoint.

[0016] It can also be provided that the setpoint is determined as the time average of several control signals from a time interval. The time interval can be immediately before the generation of the operating mode signal. In particular, the control signals are stored as a function of time in normal mode. In particular, the time interval is from 1 s to 20 s, in particular from 1 s to 10 s, in particular at most 10 s, in particular at most 5 s, in particular 10 s, in particular 5 s. It can also be provided that the time interval is after the generation of the operating mode signal.

[0017] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the special mode is a first special operating mode. In particular, the special pressure range in the first special operating mode is a single pressure value. This single pressure value is, in particular, the pressure value corresponding to the setpoint in the normal mode. Specifically, in the first special operating mode, the pressure setting device sets the pressure in the main line to the single pressure value independently of the control signal. In other words, in the first special operating mode, the pressure in the main line is set by the pressure setting device solely based on the setpoint. The generation of control signals by the operating device that deviate from the setpoint is ignored in the first special operating mode. For setting the pressure in the main line, the control signals generated by the operating device that deviate from the setpoint are irrelevant.

[0018] The first special operating mode can also be referred to as the fixed pressure mode. In particular, it can be provided that the operating device is locked in a fixed position with a fixed actuation level in the first special operating mode. Specifically, a change in the actuation level of the operating device is not possible in the first special operating mode. However, it can also be provided that, regardless of the actuation level of the operating device in the first special operating mode, only the setpoint value serves as the basis for providing the pressure in the main line by means of the pressure adjusting device. The first special operating mode can be used to select a specific pressure in the main line, in particular a specific pressure at which the liquid is dispensed.If the operator operates the control device and subsequently wishes to continue operation with the current pressure in the main line, or with a pressure value based on this current pressure, this can be achieved by switching to the first special operating mode using a first operating mode signal. Specifically, the control signal generated at the time of switching to the first special operating mode is then multiplied by a factor, in particular by a factor of 1, and stored, at least temporarily, as a setpoint. In particular, the pressure setting device adjusts the pressure in the main line in the first special operating mode based on this setpoint.In particular, the pressure regulating device sets the pressure in the main line to a value corresponding to the pressure set by the pressure regulating device in normal mode when a control signal corresponding to the setpoint is generated. The operator then does not have to laboriously maintain a constant position of the control device; instead, the high-pressure cleaner operates reliably at the same pressure in the first special operating mode. This can even be the case if the control device, particularly for generating a control signal as the basis for pressure setting by the pressure regulating device, is not used at all. Specifically, the pressure in the main line is set by the pressure regulating device independently of the control device's operation. This enables convenient operation of the high-pressure cleaner.

[0019] In a further development of the invention, the special mode is provided that a second special operating mode. In particular, in the second special operating mode, at least one extreme value of the special pressure range is determined based on the setpoint. Specifically, the special pressure range within which the pressure in the main line can be adjusted by means of the pressure control device is limited by a pressure value determined based on the setpoint. This can be, in particular, the upper limit and / or the lower limit of the special pressure range in the second special operating mode. Specifically, in the second special operating mode, the pressure value assigned to the setpoint in the normal mode is determined as the largest or smallest pressure value of the special pressure range.

[0020] If the maximum pressure value of the special pressure range in the second special operating mode corresponds to the pressure value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode, the special pressure range is limited upwards by this pressure value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode. In the second special operating mode, regardless of the degree of actuation of the control device, only the pressure in the main line can be adjusted using the pressure setting device up to this maximum pressure value, which corresponds to the pressure value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode.

[0021] If the pressure value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode in the second special operating mode is the lowest pressure value of the special pressure range, the special pressure range is limited at the bottom by the pressure value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode. Operation is then only possible above this lowest pressure value. This is the case regardless of the degree of actuation of the control device.

[0022] It may again be provided that the degree of actuation of the operating device in the second special operating mode is limited by the position of the operating device, in particular the pressure control element, which it assumes in normal mode when a control signal corresponding to the setpoint is generated. In particular, it may be provided that in the second special operating mode the operating device can only be actuated between an initial position, in particular a rest position, and a position corresponding to the position in which a control signal corresponding to the setpoint is generated in normal mode.

[0023] Alternatively, it can be provided that the operating device, in particular the pressure control element, is operable in the second special operating mode exclusively between the position in which a control signal corresponding to the actuated value is generated in normal mode, and an end position, in particular an end position. In particular, the initial position, in particular the rest position, corresponds to the position of the operating device, in particular the pressure control element, that it assumes in the unactuated state in normal mode. In particular, the end position, in particular the end position, corresponds to the position of the operating device, in particular the pressure control element, that it assumes in the fully actuated state in normal mode.

[0024] It can also be provided that both extreme values ​​of the special print range are determined based on the setpoint. For example, a lower special print limit value of the special print range can correspond to a specific lower percentage of the pressure assigned to the setpoint in normal mode. Similarly, an upper special print limit value of the special print range can correspond to a specific upper percentage of the pressure assigned to the setpoint in normal mode. The upper percentage is greater than the lower percentage. Specifically, the upper percentage is greater than 100% and the lower percentage is less than 100%. In particular, the average of the lower and upper percentages is between 90% and 110%, specifically 100%.

[0025] In particular, the lower and upper special pressure limits restrict the special pressure range in the second special operating mode. Operation is then only possible within these pressure limits. This is the case regardless of the degree of actuation of the operating device.

[0026] In a further development of the invention, the special mode is a third special operating mode. In particular, the operating device, especially the pressure control element of the operating device, is adjustable along a travel path between two extreme positions. The extreme positions correspond in particular to the extreme positions of the operating device, especially the pressure control element, in normal mode. The extreme positions are in particular the extremes of the maximum possible travel path of the operating device, especially the pressure control element. In particular, an extreme position is the initial position, especially the rest position. In particular, an extreme position is the end position, especially the final position. In particular, the degree of actuation of the operating device corresponds to a position of the operating device, especially the pressure control element, along the travel path. In particular, the extreme positions in normal mode are linked to the extreme values ​​of the normal pressure range.In particular, in the third special operating mode, the extreme positions are linked to the extreme values ​​of the special print range. This distributes the smaller special print range across the entire travel that, in normal mode, was assigned to the larger normal print range. In effect, a rescaling takes place. This allows for a more precise selection of print values ​​from the special print range. Therefore, in the third special operating mode, a precise selection of a print value can be made conveniently.

[0027] In particular, the entire spectrum of control signals is distributed across the smaller special print area. Specifically, the mapping between the control signals generated by the operating device, especially the print control element, and the print values ​​is modified compared to normal mode. Specifically, the print values ​​of the special print area are distributed evenly across the maximum possible travel of the operating device, especially the print control element.

[0028] In particular, it can be provided that in the third special operating mode, at least one extreme value of the special print range is determined based on the setpoint. Specifically, in the third special operating mode, the pressure value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode is determined as the largest or smallest pressure value of the special print range. This particular configuration of the third special operating mode represents, in a sense, a combination of the third special operating mode with the second special operating mode. In this configuration of the third special operating mode, the special print range is limited upwards or downwards by the pressure value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode, and at the same time, the special print range is distributed across the maximum possible travel of the operating device, in particular the control element.

[0029] In this configuration of the third special operating mode, it can also be provided that both extreme values ​​of the special print range are determined based on the setpoint. For example, a lower special print limit value of the special print range can correspond to a specific lower percentage of the pressure assigned to the setpoint in normal mode. Similarly, an upper special print limit value of the special print range can correspond to a specific upper percentage of the pressure assigned to the setpoint in normal mode. The upper percentage is greater than the lower percentage. In particular, the upper percentage is greater than 100% and the lower percentage is greater than 100%. Specifically, the average of the lower and upper percentages is between 90% and 110%, and in particular, 100%.

[0030] Specifically, the operating mode signal is a first mode signal for switching the high-pressure cleaner to the first special operating mode, a second mode signal for switching the high-pressure cleaner to the second special operating mode, or a third mode signal for switching the high-pressure cleaner to the third special operating mode. Each mode signal can be generated differently by the operator. This allows the various special operating modes to be easily selected.

[0031] In a further development of the invention, the high-pressure cleaning device has a button. In particular, the operating mode signal can be generated by pressing the button. Specifically, the operating mode of the high-pressure cleaning device can be switched back from special mode to normal mode by pressing the button. In normal mode, the pressure of the main lines can be adjusted within the normal pressure range by means of the pressure adjustment device, which is unlimited compared to the special pressure range. Specifically, the button allows switching back and forth between normal mode and special mode.

[0032] The high-pressure cleaner has a first button, the activation of which generates the first mode signal, enabling the first special operating mode. The high-pressure cleaner also has a second button, the activation of which generates the second mode signal, enabling the second special operating mode. Finally, the high-pressure cleaner has a third button, the activation of which generates the third mode signal, enabling the third special operating mode. Activating each button allows the user to switch back from the respective special operating mode to normal mode. The buttons also allow the user to toggle between the respective special operating mode and normal mode.It is also possible that a single button is used for all special operating modes combined. The system switches between the individual special operating modes depending on how often this button is pressed.

[0033] In a further development of the invention, it is provided that the high-pressure cleaner is always initially set to normal mode when switched on. If the high-pressure cleaner is put into operation after a longer period of time or by a different user, the user will always find the high-pressure cleaner under the same reliable conditions. However, it can be provided that the setpoints are stored for an extended period. When the high-pressure cleaner is put back into operation, one of the special operating modes can then be operated based on a previously stored setpoint. This makes it possible to operate the high-pressure cleaner with the previously preferred operating values ​​even after a long period of inactivity.

[0034] In particular, the main line between the connection and the high-pressure pump has a suction chamber. In particular, the main line between the high-pressure pump and the dispensing nozzle has a pressure chamber. In particular, the pressure chamber is fluidically connected to the suction chamber via a bypass line. In particular, a bypass valve is arranged in the bypass line. In particular, a free cross-sectional area of ​​the bypass line is adjustable for regulating the pressure in the pressure chamber by means of the bypass valve. In particular, the bypass valve for adjusting the free cross-sectional area of ​​the bypass line is adjustable by means of the operating device, in particular the pressure control element.

[0035] In particular, the pressure adjusting device comprises the bypass line and the bypass valve. Specifically, the pressure adjusting device includes a device for adjusting the free cross-sectional area of ​​the bypass line, in particular for adjusting the bypass valve. Specifically, the device for adjusting the free cross-sectional area of ​​the bypass line, in particular for adjusting the bypass valve, is an actuator. Specifically, the pressure adjusting device includes the actuator.

[0036] In an alternative embodiment of the high-pressure cleaning device, the pressure adjustment device is not based on the bypass line. In particular, no bypass line is provided at all. Instead, the pressure in the main line, especially in the pressure chamber, is adjustable by setting the output of the high-pressure pump within the normal pressure range. Specifically, a motor is provided for driving the high-pressure pump. In this alternative embodiment, the pressure adjustment device specifically comprises the motor for driving the high-pressure pump and the high-pressure pump itself.

[0037] In the inventive method for operating a high-pressure cleaning device, the high-pressure cleaning device comprises a main line through which liquid can be pumped by means of the high-pressure pump, an operating device that generates a control signal dependent on an actuation, in particular on the degree of actuation of the operating device, and a pressure adjustment device that adjusts the pressure in the main line based on the control signal. In a normal mode of the high-pressure cleaning device, the pressure in the main line can be adjusted within a normal pressure range by means of the pressure adjustment device. According to the invention, the high-pressure cleaning device is switched to a special mode by means of an operating mode signal during actuation of the operating device in normal mode.In special mode, a setpoint is determined from a control signal generated by the operating device, particularly at the time of switching to special mode, or from several control signals generated by the operating device, and the setpoint is temporarily stored. Specifically, the setpoint is determined from the time average of the several control signals. This can be the time average in the time interval immediately before the time of switching to special mode. Specifically, the time interval is from 1 s to 20 s, particularly from 1 s to 10 s, particularly at most 10 s, particularly at most 5 s, particularly 10 s, particularly 5 s. It can also be provided that the time interval lies after the generation of the operating mode signal. According to the invention, in special mode, the pressure of the main line can be adjusted within a special pressure range by means of the pressure adjusting device.The special printing range is limited compared to the normal printing range. The special printing range is determined according to the inventive method using the setpoint.

[0038] The method according to the invention has the advantages mentioned above with regard to the high-pressure cleaning device in question. The method according to the invention can be further developed analogously to the high-pressure cleaning device according to the invention and is associated with the same advantages.

[0039] 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, Fig. 2 and Fig. 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 3Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a high-pressure cleaning device with an unactuated operating device, in particular with an unactuated pressure control element and an unactuated valve control element, wherein the high-pressure cleaning device comprises a pressure adjustment device in the form of a bypass line with a bypass valve and an actuator for the bypass valve, Fig. 6 a schematic representation of the high-pressure cleaning device made of Fig. 5 with partially actuated operating device, namely 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 fully actuated operating device, namely with actuated valve control element and actuated pressure control element, Fig. 8 a schematic representation of an alternative embodiment of a high-pressure cleaning device with fully actuated operating device, namely with actuated valve control element and actuated pressure control element, wherein the high-pressure cleaning device comprises a pressure adjustment device in the form of a high-pressure pump and a motor for its drive, Fig. 9 a sectional view through the hand-held spray unit made of the Figs. 2 to 4 With the operating device unactuated, namely with the pressure control element and valve element unactuated, Fig. 10 shows a sectional view analogous to Fig. 9 With a partially actuated operating device, namely 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. 9With the operating device fully engaged, namely with the valve control element and pressure control element engaged, Fig. 12 shows a detail from Fig. 9 and Fig. 13 a representation of a detail from Fig. 11 .

[0040] Fig. 1 shows a pump unit 18 of a in Fig. 5 schematically represented high-pressure cleaning device 1. The pump unit 18 can also be designed according to the alternative embodiment shown in the Fig. 8 be designed.

[0041] In both versions of the high-pressure cleaning device 1, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 includes a spray unit 11. The spray unit 11 can be used as described in Fig. 5 or Fig. 8 schematically depicted as a pistol. A dispensing opening 6 is arranged on the pistol. Alternatively, the dispensing unit 11 can be designed as a pistol with a lance 28, as shown in the Figs. 2 to 4shown. In this case, the spray opening 6 is located on the lance 28.

[0042] In all versions, the pressure in a main line 5 can be changed, in particular adjusted, by means of a pressure adjusting device 25. The versions according to Fig. 5 and 8 differ in the design of the pressure adjustment devices 25.

[0043] In total, four different embodiments are shown in the drawing. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the following description applies to all embodiments – even if the corresponding features are only described in connection with one of the figures.

[0044] 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.

[0045] As in Fig. 5 or 8As 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.

[0046] As in the Fig. 1 and 5 or 8As 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 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.

[0047] As in Fig. 5 or 8As shown, the pump unit 18 and the spray unit 11 are fluidically connected to each other via a main line 5 in all embodiments. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 includes the main line 5. The main line 5 fluidically connects the port 2 to the spray opening 6. The port 2 is located on the pump unit 18. The spray opening 6 is located on the spray unit 11. In the exemplary embodiment according to the Figs. 2 to 4 The 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] The high-pressure pump 3 is arranged in the pump unit 18, specifically in a housing of the pump unit 18. The high-pressure pump 3 is designed separately 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 referred to as 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 provided, the motor can also be a brushless DC motor. In this case, the battery can be integrated into the high-pressure cleaner 1. Specifically, the pump unit 18 can be integrated into the handheld spray unit 11. In this case, the entire high-pressure cleaner 1 is portable and handheld during operation. Specifically, the pump unit and the spray unit are then integrally designed. Specifically, the pump unit and the spray unit are then arranged in a common housing. Specifically, the pump unit and the spray unit are then rigidly connected to each other, specifically not via a flexible hose.

[0050] As in Fig. 5 or 8As 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.

[0051] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 includes 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 comprise a closed state 20 and a fully open state 40, as also shown by way of example in the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 8 in the Fig. 5 and 6As shown. In 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.

[0052] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 includes a [unclear] in the Figs. 5 to 7 or in an alternative version in Fig. 8 The pressure adjusting device 25 shown. By means of the pressure adjusting device 25, the pressure in the main line 5, in particular in the pressure chamber 10, can be changed, in particular adjusted.

[0053] 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 pressure adjusting device 25 can be operated by means of the operating device 7.

[0054] In particular, 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 injection unit 11.

[0055] The operating device 7 generates a control signal that depends on an actuation, in particular the degree of actuation of the operating device 7. Based on the control signal, the pressure adjusting device 25 sets the pressure in the main line 5, in particular in the pressure chamber 10.

[0056] In the exemplary embodiments, the operating device 7 comprises a valve control element 41 and a pressure control element 42. The valve control element 41 serves to actuate the main line valve 8, in particular to switch between the closed state 20 and the fully open state 40. The pressure control element 42 serves to actuate the pressure adjusting device 25. Alternatively, the operating device 7 can also consist of a single control element that serves to actuate both the main line valve 8 and the pressure adjusting device 25. For example, the single control element can be adjustable along a travel path.When the single control element is initially actuated, the main line valve 8 is first opened. After a portion of its travel has traversed, the pressure adjusting device 25 is actuated, and the pressure in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, is changed, specifically adjusted. Depending on the degree of actuation, i.e., depending on the extent of the travel, the pressure adjusting device 25 then adjusts the pressure in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10. Specifically, the single control element generates a control signal that depends on the degree of actuation of the control element. The pressure adjusting device 25 uses this signal to adjust the pressure in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10.

[0057] In the exemplary embodiments, the operating device 7 comprises the pressure control element 42 and the valve control element 41. 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, at least no change in pressure in the main line 5 is triggered by the pressure control element 42, and in particular not by the pressure adjusting device 25. This separation of mechanical actuation and functional release is achieved through control technology.

[0058] 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 changed, in particular preset, by means of the pressure control element 42. The pressure of the liquid in the pressure chamber 10 can also be changed, in particular preset, 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 changed, in particular preset, by means of the pressure control element 42 when the main line valve 8 is fully open 40. It can 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 changed, in particular adjusted, by means of the pressure control element 42.

[0059] For the pressure adjusting device 25, in the Figs. 5 to 7 a first embodiment and in Fig. 8 A second embodiment is shown.

[0060] In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 5 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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 bypass valve 13 is adjustable by means of an actuator 16. The actuator 16 is arranged in the pump unit 18. By means of the actuator 16, the bypass valve 13 can be adjusted such that the free cross-sectional area of ​​the bypass line 12 is adjustable.

[0063] In the exemplary embodiment according to the Figs. 5 to 7The pressure adjusting device 25 comprises the bypass line 12, the bypass valve 13 and the actuator 16.

[0064] The operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, generates a control signal that depends on an actuation, in particular on the degree of actuation of the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42. The pressure setting device 25 sets the pressure in the main line 5, in particular in the pressure chamber 10, based on the control signal.

[0065] 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. Depending on the adjustment position of the pressure control element 42, the pressure control element 42 generates a control signal. Various control signals can be generated by means of the pressure control element 42. In particular, control signals of varying intensities can be generated by means of the pressure control element 42. Specifically, the intensity of a control signal increases depending on the degree of actuation of the control element 42. Based on the control signal, and in particular its intensity, the pressure adjusting device 25 sets the pressure in the main line 5, and in particular in the pressure chamber 10. Specifically, the size of the free cross-sectional area can be adjusted by means of the pressure control element 42 in at least six, and in particular 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. "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 they actuate the pressure control element 42.

[0066] Depending on the degree of closure of the bypass valve 13, the volume flow rate of the liquid in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, 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, especially in the section between the high-pressure pump 3 and the spray opening 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 opening 6.

[0067] 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, and especially at the discharge opening 6, can be regulated.

[0068] In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 8 The pressure in the main line 5, in particular in the pressure chamber 10, is changed, in particular adjusted, by means of an alternative pressure adjusting device 25. In contrast to the embodiment according to the Figs. 5 to 7 In the exemplary embodiment, according to Fig. 8 No bypass line is provided. For the adjustment, in particular the setting of the pressure in the main line 5, especially in the pressure chamber 10, the following is provided in the exemplary embodiment: Fig. 8The motor speed of motor 4 for driving the high-pressure pump 3 is variable. In this case, the pressure control element 42 serves to specify, in particular to set, a motor speed of motor 4. In the embodiment according to Fig. 8 The pressure adjusting device 25 comprises the motor 4 and the high-pressure pump 3. In this embodiment as well, the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, generates a control signal dependent on an actuation, in particular on the degree of actuation of the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, and the pressure adjusting device 25 adjusts the pressure in the main line 5, in particular in the pressure chamber 10, based on the control signal. In the embodiment according to Fig. 8 The speed of the motor 4 is changed, in particular adjusted, in at least indirectly depending on the control signal, in particular on the intensity of the control signal.

[0069] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the motor speed of the motor 4 is adjusted depending on the adjustment position of the pressure control element 42. The higher the motor speed of the motor 4, the greater the volume flow, and in particular the pressure, of the liquid in the main line 5, especially in the pressure chamber 10.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] The operating device 7 is biased in an unactuated state. Both the valve control element 41 and the pressure control element 42 are independently biased in an unactuated state. A spring, not shown in the figures, can be used for this purpose in each case.

[0073] In the exemplary embodiments, the operating device 7 is designed such that the pressure control element 42 can only be actuated when the valve control element 41 is actuated. However, it can also be provided that the pressure control element 42 can be actuated when the valve control element 41 is not actuated.

[0074] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that when the valve control element 41 is actuated, the main line valve 8 is transferred from the fully closed state 20 to the fully open state 40.

[0075] The pressure control element 42 is located within a Fig. 5 or Fig. 8The pressure control element 42 is adjustable within the adjustment range 31 shown. Within this adjustment range, the pressure control element 42 can assume various positions, particularly depending on the degree of actuation. It may be possible for the pressure control element 42 to be adjustable only in steps. In the exemplary embodiments, the pressure control element 42 is continuously adjustable to different positions within the adjustment range 31.

[0076] 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, in particular a degree of actuation, of the operating device 7, especially the pressure control element 42 of the operating device 7. The detector 15 can detect any continuous adjustment position of the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, within the adjustment range 31. The detector 15 may 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 operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, is possible. The pressure control element 42 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 operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, as shown in the . Figs. 9 to 11 The mechanical connecting element 44 couples the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, and the detector 15. The operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, interacts with the detector 15 by means of the mechanical connecting element 44.

[0077] 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 13The 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. 12 The position element 45 is shown when the pressure control element 42 is not actuated. Fig. 13The position element 45 is shown with the pressure control element 42 fully actuated. Actuation of the pressure control element 42 causes the position element 45 to be moved along the detector travel s along the maximum detector travel sm. In this process, the position element 45 is moved relative to a measuring unit of the detector 15, in this exemplary embodiment a coil. The change in position of the position element 45 is detected by the measuring unit of the detector 15. In this exemplary embodiment, the control signal is generated. The control signal corresponds to the signal generated in the detector 15 when the position of the pressure control element 42, and in particular the position of the position element 45, is detected. The control signal is generated indirectly by the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42.In particular, the control signal is generated indirectly depending on the actuation, especially the degree of actuation, of the operating device 7, especially the pressure control element 42. However, the control signal can also be a different signal generated on the signal path between the operating device 7 and the pressure setting device 25.

[0078] The mechanical connecting element 44 mechanically connects the positioning element 45 and the pressure control element 42.

[0079] As especially in the Figs. 5 to 8As 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 cleaner 1 is designed such that control signals of greater or lesser intensity are generated as the distance of the pressure control element 42 from the rest position 37 increases. In the exemplary embodiment, the intensity of the control signals increases with increasing distance of the pressure control element 42 from the rest position 37. With increasing intensity of the control signals, the pressure setting device 25, in a normal mode of the high-pressure cleaner 1, sets a higher or at least no lower pressure in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10.When the pressure control element 42 is in the end position 38, it, and in particular the detector 15, generates a control signal of maximum intensity. In the normal mode of the high-pressure cleaner 1, the pressure setting device 25 then sets the maximum possible pressure in the main line 5, in particular in the pressure chamber 10. The pressure control element 42 is biased in the rest position 37.

[0080] 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 11The corresponding distance of the pressure point 54 to the pressure control pivot axis 52 is referred to as the maximum pressure distance d. The pressure point 54 is located, with respect to the pressure control pivot axis 52, on the side of the pressure control 42 that is actuated by the operator. The pressure point 54 is the point on the pressure control 42 that, with respect to the position of the pressure control pivot axis 52, is located on the side of the pressure control 42 that corresponds to a grip area 14 ( Fig. 3 or 4 ), against which the hand, in particular the middle hand, in particular the palm, of a user rests during operation of the high-pressure cleaning device 1, is turned away and which represents the maximum pressure distance d ( Figs. 8 to 11 ) to the pressure control element pivot axis 52. The rest position 37 is defined in the exemplary embodiments by the position of the reference point when the pressure control element 42 is not actuated.

[0081] 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.

[0082] The pressure control element 42 is adjustable along its maximum travel wm ( Figs. 5 to 11 The 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.

[0083] In all embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 is designed such that the pressure adjusting device 25 adjusts itself 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, in particular the control signal, based on which the pressure adjusting device 25 adjusts the pressure in the main line 5, in particular in the pressure chamber 10. In the embodiments, in all operating modes of the high-pressure cleaning device 1, there is a fixed, unchanging relationship between the adjustment position of the control device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, and the generated control signal, in particular the intensity of the generated control signal. The assignment of adjustment position and control signal, in particular the intensity of the control signal, is always the same, regardless of the selected operating mode.

[0084] In the exemplary embodiments, the valve control element 41 is a [unclear] by means of a [unclear] in the Figs. 9 to 11 The valve control element pivot axis 51 is pivotable. In particular, the valve control element 41 is pivotably mounted about the valve control element pivot axis 51 in the injection unit 11, especially in a housing of the injection unit 11. In particular, the pressure control element 42 is a pivotable lever mounted about a pivot axis 51 in the Figs. 9 to 11 illustrated pressure control element swivel axis 52 swiveling swivel lever.

[0085] 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 provided that the control unit 22 is arranged in the injection unit 11. The signal generated by the detector 15, in particular the control signal, is transmitted directly or indirectly, in particular in the form of a wireless, especially electromagnetic, signal to the control unit 22.

[0086] It may be provided that the control signal is converted into other signals after its generation and before being received by the control unit 22. This conversion, however, takes place in such a way that the other signals are determined based on the control signal. In particular, the intensity of the other signals is determined based on the intensity of the control signal. Specifically, the intensity of the other signal is proportional to the intensity of the control signal. Although the control signal may be amplified or converted into another signal on its way to the control unit 22, the control signal always serves as the basis for determining the other signal. Specifically, the other signals are exclusively electrical and / or electromagnetic signals.In particular, a possible signal chain between the control signal and the control unit 22 comprises exclusively electrical and / or electromagnetic signals, and in particular no mechanical and / or hydraulic signal transmission.

[0087] The signal received by the control unit 22 is used to change, and 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, particularly by means of the pressure adjusting device 25. Specifically, a pressure signal is generated by the control unit 22 based on the control signal received by the control unit 22. The pressure signal is transmitted by the control unit 22 to the pressure adjusting device 25. The pressure signal is transmitted directly or indirectly, particularly in the form of a wireless, especially electromagnetic, signal, from the control unit 22 to the pressure adjusting device 25. However, it can also be provided that the pressure signal is transmitted via cable, particularly as an electrical signal. The pressure adjusting device 25 adjusts the pressure in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, according to the pressure signal.

[0088] The high-pressure cleaner 1 can be operated in normal mode. Normal mode is an operating mode of the high-pressure cleaner 1. In normal mode, the pressure in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, can be adjusted within a normal pressure range by means of the pressure adjusting device 25. In the exemplary embodiments, the normal pressure range is the largest possible pressure range that can be set with the pressure adjusting device 25. The normal pressure range has a normal minimum value and a normal maximum value for the pressure. In the exemplary embodiments, the normal minimum value is zero. The normal maximum value is the highest pressure value that can be set with the pressure adjusting device 25 in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, especially under the boundary conditions determined by the other components of the high-pressure cleaner 1. However, it may also be provided that the normal pressure range does not utilize the entire possible pressure value range.Typically, however, the normal pressure range is the largest pressure range in which the pressure in an operating mode of the high-pressure cleaning device 1 in the main line 5, especially in the pressure chamber 10, can be adjusted.

[0089] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 has a special mode in all embodiments. The special mode is an operating mode of the high-pressure cleaning device 1. The high-pressure cleaning device 1 can be operated in normal mode or in special mode. In special mode, the pressure in the main line 5, in particular in the pressure chamber 10, can be adjusted within a special pressure range by means of the pressure adjusting device 25. The special pressure range is limited compared to the normal pressure range. The special pressure range has a special minimum value and a special maximum value for the pressure. The special minimum value and the special maximum value limit the special pressure range. The special minimum value is also referred to as the lower special pressure limit. The special maximum value is also referred to as the upper special pressure limit. The special minimum value is greater than the normal minimum value and / or the special maximum value is less than the normal maximum value.It can also be stipulated that the special minimum value and the special maximum value are the same. Such a single value is also referred to as a special print range.

[0090] In the special mode, the control signals received by the control unit 22 and the pressure signals emitted by the control unit are assigned differently in the exemplary embodiments compared to the normal mode. It is possible that, due to the same incoming control signal, a different pressure signal is generated by the control unit 22 in special mode than in normal mode. Consequently, the pressure setting device 25 then sets a different pressure in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10.

[0091] The high-pressure cleaning device 1 can be switched to special operating mode in normal mode by means of an operating mode signal while the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, is being actuated. In the exemplary embodiments, the operating mode signal is triggered by the user. For this purpose, a Fig. 2 , in Fig. 5 or in Fig. 8Button 55 is provided. Button 55 is used to generate the operating mode signal. The operating mode signal can be generated by pressing button 55, particularly when the high-pressure cleaner 1 is in normal mode. Button 55 is located on the spray unit 11. Specifically, button 55 can be pressed with at least one three-jointed finger (the thumb) while operating the control device 7, especially the pressure control element 42. In particular, the operating mode of the high-pressure cleaner 1 can be switched from special mode to normal mode by pressing button 55.

[0092] In the exemplary embodiments, the operating mode signal is transmitted to the control unit 22. This can be done by means of an electrical signal, in particular via a cable. In the exemplary embodiments, the operating mode signal is transmitted wirelessly, in particular electromagnetically, to the control unit 22. Upon receiving the operating mode signal, the control unit 22 switches the high-pressure cleaner 1 from normal mode to special mode.

[0093] In special mode, a control value is determined from the control signal generated by the operating device 7, in particular by the pressure control element 42. It can also be provided that the control value is determined from several control signals. In both cases, this is in particular one or more control signals that were generated before or during the switch to special mode. In the exemplary embodiments, the control unit 22 receives the control signal or signals and determines the control value from them. In particular, the control value corresponds to an intensity of a control signal that is generated by the operating device 7, in particular by the pressure control element 42. In particular, the control signal on the basis of which the control value is determined is a control signal that is generated by the operating device 7, in particular by the pressure control element 42, in an adjustment position between the rest position 37 ( Fig. 6) and the final position ( Fig. 7 ) is generated. It can also be provided that, based on the control signal as described above, another signal is generated, on the basis of which the setpoint is then determined.

[0094] The determined setpoint is stored, at least temporarily. In the exemplary embodiments, this is done by the control unit 22.

[0095] In special mode, the special print range is determined using the setpoint. The special print range is limited at the top by an upper special pressure limit value. The upper special pressure limit value is also referred to as the special maximum value. The special print range is limited at the bottom by a lower special pressure limit value. The lower special pressure limit value is also referred to as the special minimum value. Specifically, the special minimum value and / or the special maximum value are determined using the setpoint. In the exemplary embodiments, this is done by the control unit 22.

[0096] The special mode can be a first special operating mode, a second special operating mode, and / or a third special operating mode. In the exemplary embodiments, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 can be operated in the first special operating mode, in the second special operating mode, or in the third special operating mode.

[0097] The operating mode signal can be a first mode signal, a second mode signal, and / or a third mode signal. The first mode signal is used to change the operating mode of the high-pressure cleaner 1 to the first special operating mode. The second mode signal is used to change the operating mode of the high-pressure cleaner 1 to the second special operating mode. The third mode signal is used to change the operating mode of the high-pressure cleaner 1 to the third special operating mode.

[0098] In particular, each mode signal can be generated by the operator in a different way. Specifically, the individual mode signals are generated by pressing button 55. The first mode signal is generated upon initial pressing. Pressing button 55 in the first special operating mode generates the second mode signal. Pressing button 55 in the second special operating mode generates the third mode signal. In the exemplary embodiments, each of the three special operating modes has its own button for generating the corresponding mode signal.

[0099] In the first special operating mode, the special pressure range is a single pressure value. In the exemplary embodiments, this single pressure value corresponds to the pressure value that the pressure setting device 25 would specify for the pressure in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, in normal mode if the operating device 7, particularly the pressure control element 42, were to generate the setpoint as a control signal. In the exemplary embodiments, in the first special operating mode, the pressure setting device 25 sets the pressure in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, to the single pressure value, independently of the control signal generated by the operating device 7, particularly the pressure control element 42, in the first special operating mode. In the first special operating mode, the pressure in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, is set by the pressure setting device 25 solely based on the setpoint.Control signals received by the control unit 22 in the first special operating mode are not used to generate pressure signals. The pressure signal sent by the control unit 22 to the pressure setting device is generated solely based on the setpoint. This occurs independently of the actuation level of the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42.

[0100] In particular, it can be provided that the operating device 7, especially the pressure control element 42, is fixed in a fixed adjustment position, especially with a fixed actuation degree, in the first special operating mode. Specifically, in the first special operating mode, a change in the adjustment position, especially the actuation degree, of the operating device 7, especially the pressure control element 42, is not possible. This is not the case in the exemplary embodiments. In the first special operating mode, adjustment of the operating device 7, especially the pressure control element 42, to the same adjustment positions as in normal mode is possible. However, the different control signals generated in the various adjustment positions are not used to generate different pressure signals.

[0101] In particular, the control signal generated at the time of switching to the first special operating mode is multiplied by a factor and stored, at least temporarily, as a setpoint. If the resulting setpoint is greater than the maximum intensity of a control signal that can be generated in normal mode, the setpoint is determined according to this maximum intensity.

[0102] In the exemplary embodiments, the factor is 1. In other words, the setpoint corresponds to the control signal generated at the time of switching to the first special operating mode. This applies in particular to the intensity of this control signal.

[0103] In the second special operating mode, at least one extreme value of the special pressure range is determined based on the setpoint. In particular, the special pressure range, within which the pressure in the main line 5, especially in the pressure chamber 10, can be adjusted by means of the pressure adjusting device 25, is limited by a pressure value determined based on the setpoint. In the exemplary embodiments, in the second special operating mode, the pressure value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode is determined as the special maximum value or the special minimum value of the special pressure range.

[0104] If the special maximum value corresponds to the setpoint, the control unit 22 only outputs pressure signals that are no greater than the pressure signal that would be generated in normal mode upon receiving a control signal corresponding to the setpoint. If the control unit 22 receives control signals that are greater than the setpoint, it nevertheless only generates the pressure signal corresponding to the setpoint as a control signal in normal mode. This limits the pressure value specified by the pressure setting device 25 in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, to the special maximum value.

[0105] If the special minimum value corresponds to the setpoint, the control unit 22 only outputs pressure signals that are at least as high as the pressure signal that would be generated in normal mode upon receiving a control signal corresponding to the setpoint. If the control unit 22 receives control signals that are lower than the setpoint, it nevertheless only generates the pressure signal corresponding to the setpoint as the control signal in normal mode. This limits the pressure value specified by the pressure setting device 25 in the main line 5, particularly in the pressure chamber 10, to values ​​that are at least equal to the special minimum value.

[0106] The restriction of the pressure signal spectrum can be independent of the degree of actuation, in particular the adjustment position, of the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42. It can be provided that the degree of actuation of the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, in the second special operating mode is limited by the adjustment position of the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, which the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, assumes in normal mode when generating a control signal corresponding to the setpoint. In particular, it can be provided that the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, in the second special operating mode can only be actuated between the rest position 37 and an adjustment position that corresponds to the adjustment position at which a control signal corresponding to the setpoint is generated in normal mode.

[0107] Alternatively, it can be provided that the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, can be operated in the second special operating mode exclusively between the adjustment position, in which a control signal corresponding to the setpoint is generated in normal mode, and the end position 38.

[0108] Such limitations of the travel of the operating device 7, in particular of the pressure control element 42, can be effected mechanically, in particular by the control unit 22.

[0109] In the exemplary embodiments, unrestricted operation of the control device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, is also possible in the second special operating mode. As described, control signals that would be used in normal mode to generate pressure signals above the special maximum value or below the special minimum value are used to generate a pressure signal that sets the special maximum value or the special minimum value by means of the pressure setting device 25. In the control unit 22, the incoming control signals for a portion of the control signal spectrum are assigned to other pressure values ​​or to a pressure value corresponding to the setpoint in normal mode.

[0110] It can also be provided that, in the second special operating mode, both the special maximum value and the special minimum value of the special print range are determined based on the setpoint. The special minimum value can, for example, correspond to a specific lower percentage of the print value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode. The special maximum value of the special print range can, for example, correspond to a specific upper percentage of the print value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode. The upper percentage is greater than the lower percentage. In particular, the upper percentage is greater than 100% and the lower percentage is less than 100%. In particular, the average of the lower and upper percentages is between 90% and 110%, specifically 100%.The assignment of the control signals in the control unit 22 then takes place as already described, except that the limitation of the emitted pressure signals occurs at both the upper and lower ends of the pressure signal spectrum. In a middle range of the control signal spectrum, the assignment between control signal and pressure signal remains unchanged compared to normal mode. In the upper range, only one pressure signal is generated, which in normal mode is assigned to the control signal corresponding to the setpoint multiplied by the upper percentage value. In the lower range, only one pressure signal is generated, which in normal mode is assigned to the control signal corresponding to the setpoint multiplied by the lower percentage value. In particular, adjustment of the operating device 7, especially the pressure control element 42, is possible along the entire adjustment range 31.The restriction of the special print area is achieved exclusively through a new assignment of control signals and print signals in control unit 2.

[0111] In the third special operating mode, the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, is positioned exactly as in normal mode along the travel path between the rest position 37 ( Fig. 6 ) and the final position 38 ( Fig. 7 ) adjustable. This also applies to the embodiment shown in the following example. Fig. 8In the third special operating mode, the rest position 37 is linked to the special minimum value and the end position 38 to the special maximum value. The control signals generated by the operating device 7, in particular the pressure control element 42, are linked in the control unit 22 in the third special operating mode to other pressure signals sent by the control unit 22 to the pressure setting device 25. The pressure signal spectrum is limited in the third special operating mode. Compared to the second special operating mode, the number of possible pressure signals that can be generated is greater in the third special operating mode. The intervals between different, immediately adjacent pressure signals, or between their intensities, are smaller than in normal mode, and especially than in the second special operating mode. In particular, in the third special operating mode, each control signal is assigned a different pressure signal. This is not the case in the second special operating mode in the exemplary embodiments.In the third special operating mode, the entire available spectrum of control signals is distributed across a limited spectrum of pressure signals, particularly more finely than in normal mode. This means that selecting a specific pressure value using the operating device 7, especially the pressure control element 42, is possible within a limited special pressure range, but with greater precision and smaller intervals between the pressure values. Specifically, the pressure values ​​of the special pressure range are distributed evenly across the entire adjustment range 31 of the operating device 7, especially the pressure control element 42.

[0112] In the third special operating mode, it can also be provided that, as in the second special operating mode, at least one extreme value of the special pressure range is determined based on the setpoint. In particular, the special pressure range, within which the pressure in the main line 5, especially in the pressure chamber 10, can be adjusted by means of the pressure adjusting device 25, is limited by a pressure value determined based on the setpoint. In the exemplary embodiments, in the third special operating mode, the pressure value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode is determined as the special maximum value or the special minimum value of the special pressure range. In this embodiment of the third special operating mode, the special pressure range is limited upwards or downwards by the pressure value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode, and at the same time, the special pressure range is distributed over the maximum possible adjustment range 31 of the operating device 7, especially the control element 42.

[0113] The other previously described configurations of the second special operating mode can also be combined with the third special operating mode, whereby the maximum possible adjustment range 31 is always utilized in the third special operating mode. In particular, both the special maximum value and the special minimum value of the special print range can be determined based on the setpoint in the third special operating mode as well. The special minimum value can, for example, correspond to a specific lower percentage of the print value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode. The special maximum value of the special print range can, for example, correspond to a specific upper percentage of the print value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode. The further possible configurations in this regard are described above in connection with the second special operating mode.

[0114] The use of the high-pressure cleaning device 1, in particular the operating device 7, in normal mode is described in the Figs. 5 to 7 also for example the embodiment according to Fig. 8 shown, 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 the main line 5, in particular the pressure chamber 10, fully actuated ( ) and the maximum pressure specified by the pressure adjusting device 25 ( ) 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. In the exemplary embodiment according to the Figs. 5 to 7In normal mode, the pressure adjusting device 25 enables the maximum pressure by completely closing the bypass valve 13 ( Fig. 7 ). In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 8 The pressure adjusting device 25 enables the maximum pressure in normal mode by having the motor 4 drive the high-pressure pump 3 with maximum intended power.

[0115] In Fig. 5The operating device 7 is in the unactuated state 30. The intensity of the control signal is minimal or even zero. This applies to all operating modes. 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 orifice 6. In normal mode, the bypass valve 13 is fully open due to the minimal or non-existent intensity of the control signal. The pressure in the pressure chamber 10 is thereby minimized for the closed state 20 of the main line valve 8. In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 8 In normal mode, motor 4 is not driven in the same state as the control device 7 due to the minimal or non-existent intensity of the control signal. Motor 4 remains stationary.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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 As shown, liquid is ejected from the dispensing opening 6. The pressure control element 42 is not actuated. The intensity of the control signal is minimal or non-existent. Due to the minimal or non-existent intensity of the control signal, the bypass valve 13 is fully open in normal mode. In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 8Due to the minimal or non-existent intensity of the control signal, motor 4 is not driven in normal mode. Motor 4 remains stationary. The pressure in the section of the main line 5 between the high-pressure pump 3 and the discharge port 6, or in the pressure chamber 10, is minimal in both embodiments in normal mode for the fully open state 40 of the main line valve 8.

[0118] 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. Due to this adjustment position of the pressure control element 42, a control signal with an intensity between the maximum and minimum intensity is generated. This applies to all operating modes in the exemplary embodiments. This control signal is received by the control unit 22. The control unit 22 then sends a pressure signal, which in normal mode corresponds to the received control signal, to the pressure adjustment device 25. The pressure adjustment device 25 then adjusts the pressure in the main line 5, in particular in the suction chamber 10, to a value between the extreme values ​​of the normal pressure range available in normal mode. In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 6 The bypass valve 13 is then 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 outlet 6, or in the pressure chamber 10, is greater than in Fig. 6 , but smaller than in Fig. 7 In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 8With the pressure control element 42 lightly actuated, the motor 4 operates in normal mode at a power output between its maximum intended power and zero, due to the intensity of the control signal between its minimum and maximum values. When the high-pressure cleaner 1, in this state with the main line valve 8 fully open and the pressure control element 42 in an adjustment position between the rest position 37 and the end position 38, is switched to special mode, in which the operating mode signal is generated by actuating the control surface 55, the control unit 22 receives the same control signals as in normal mode in the exemplary embodiments, but may not send the same pressure signal to the pressure adjustment device 25 as in normal mode. In one embodiment of the invention, in each special mode, the control signal received by the control unit 22 at that time is stored as a control value when the operating mode signal is generated.

[0119] In the first special operating mode, the pressure control element 42 can be adjusted to other positions, and therefore different control signals arrive at the control unit 22. However, the control unit 22 always sends only the same pressure signal to the pressure setting device 25. This pressure signal corresponds to the pressure signal that the control unit 22 sends to the pressure setting device 25 in normal mode when it receives a control signal corresponding to the setpoint.

[0120] In one of the described embodiments of the second special operating mode, when receiving control signals below the setpoint, the control unit 22 always sends only the pressure signal to the pressure setting device 25, which in normal mode is assigned to the setpoint. For the reception of the other control signals, the high-pressure cleaning device 1 behaves as in normal mode.

[0121] In one described embodiment of the third special operating mode, the pressure signal assigned to the setpoint in normal mode by the control unit 22 is now assigned by the control unit 22 to the smallest control signal that can be generated by the pressure control element 42. The largest generable control signal continues to be assigned to the largest generable pressure signal. Each value from the entire control signal spectrum is assigned a pressure signal at regular intervals between the pressure signal assigned to the setpoint in normal mode and the maximum pressure signal generable in normal mode.

[0122] In Fig. 7The normal mode is shown again. The pressure control element 42 is moved to the end position 38. A control signal of maximum intensity is generated. In normal mode, the bypass valve 13 is completely closed due to the control signal of maximum intensity. No liquid can flow back from the pressure chamber 10 into the suction chamber 9 through the bypass line 12. In the embodiment according to Fig. 8 Due to the control signal of maximum intensity, the motor 4 is operated in normal mode at its maximum intended power. The pressure in the pressure chamber 10 is at its maximum for the open state 40 of the main line valve 8 in both embodiments. The valve control element 41 remains fully actuated. The main line valve 8 remains in the fully open state 40. The control device 7 is in the fully actuated state 50. In normal mode, liquid is ejected from the dispensing orifice 6 at maximum pressure.

[0123] If the system was previously switched to special mode as described, liquid may not be ejected at maximum pressure, even though the pressure control element 42 is fully actuated. In the first special operating mode, the pressure setting device 25 then specifies a fixed pressure value, regardless of the adjustment position of the pressure control element 42. In the above, in connection with the transition from Fig. 6 to Fig. 7 In the described variants of the second and third special operating modes, the pressure adjusting device 25 would receive the highest possible pressure signal from the control unit 22 and accordingly liquid would be ejected at maximum pressure.

[0124] In all embodiments, the high-pressure cleaner 1 is designed such that when the high-pressure cleaner 1 is switched on, in particular by means of the main switch 19, it is always initially set to normal mode. If the high-pressure cleaner 1 was in special mode when switched off, in particular by means of the main switch 19, it is in normal mode when switched on, in particular by means of the main switch 19.

Claims

1. High-pressure cleaning device comprising: - a main line (5) through which liquid can be conveyed by means of a high-pressure pump (3), - an operating device (7) which generates a control signal dependent on an actuation, in particular on a degree of actuation, of the operating device (7), and - a pressure adjusting device (25) which adjusts the pressure in the main line (5) based on the control signal, wherein in a normal mode of the high-pressure cleaning device (1) the pressure in the main line (5) can be adjusted within a normal pressure range by means of the pressure adjusting device (25), characterized by the fact thatThe high-pressure cleaning device (1) can be switched to a special mode by means of an operating mode signal during operation of the control device (7) in normal mode, that in special mode a control value is determined from a control signal or several control signals and the control value is stored at least temporarily, that in special mode the pressure in the main line (5) can be adjusted within a special pressure range by means of the pressure setting device (25), that the special pressure range is limited compared to the normal pressure range, and that the special pressure range is determined using the control value.

2. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that In special mode, the control signal generated by the operating device (7) at the time of switching to special mode is stored at least temporarily as a setpoint.

3. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact thatthe special mode is a first special operating mode, and that the special pressure range in the first special operating mode is a single pressure value, in particular the pressure value corresponding to the setpoint in the normal mode, and in particular that the pressure setting device (25) sets the pressure in the main line (5) to the single pressure value in the first special operating mode independently of the control signal.

4. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that The special mode is a second special operating mode in which at least one extreme value of the special print range is determined based on the setpoint, and in particular, in the second special operating mode, the print value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode is determined as the largest or smallest print value of the special print range.

5. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact thatThe special mode is a third special operating mode in which the operating device (7), in particular a pressure control element (42) of the operating device (7), is adjustable along a positioning path between two extreme positions (37, 38), that in normal mode the extreme positions (37, 38) are linked to the extreme values ​​of the normal pressure range, and that in the third special operating mode the extreme positions (37, 38) are linked to the extreme values ​​of the special pressure range.

6. High-pressure cleaning device according to claim 5, characterized by the fact that In the third special operating mode, at least one extreme value of the special print range is determined based on the setpoint, in particular that in the third special operating mode the print value assigned to the setpoint in normal mode is determined as the largest or smallest print value of the special print range.

7. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact thatthe high-pressure cleaning device (1) has a button (55), and that the operating mode signal can be generated by pressing the button (55), and in particular that the operating mode of the high-pressure cleaning device (1) can be switched back to normal mode in special mode by pressing the button (55).

8. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by the fact that the operating mode signal may be a first mode signal for adjusting the high-pressure cleaning device (1) to the first special operating mode or a second mode signal for adjusting the high-pressure cleaning device (1) to the second special operating mode or a third mode signal for adjusting the high-pressure cleaning device (1) to the third special operating mode, and in particular that each mode signal may be generated by the operator in another way.

9. High-pressure cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by the fact thatThe high-pressure cleaner (1) is always initially set to normal mode when the high-pressure cleaner (1) is switched on.

10. Method for operating a high-pressure cleaning device, wherein the high-pressure cleaning device (1) comprises: - a main line (5) through which liquid can be conveyed by means of the high-pressure pump (3), - an operating device (7) which generates a control signal dependent on an actuation, in particular on a degree of actuation, of the operating device (7), and - a pressure adjusting device (25) which adjusts the pressure in the main line (5) based on the control signal, wherein in a normal mode of the high-pressure cleaning device (1) the pressure in the main line (5) can be adjusted within a normal pressure range by means of the pressure adjusting device (25), characterized by the fact thatthe high-pressure cleaning device (1) is switched to a special mode by means of an operating mode signal during the operation of the control device (7) in normal mode, that in special mode a control value is determined from a control signal generated by the control device (7), in particular at the time of switching to the special mode, or from several control signals generated by the control device (7), and the control value is stored at least temporarily, that in special mode the pressure in the main line (5) can be adjusted within a special pressure range by means of the pressure setting device (25), that the special pressure range is limited compared to the normal pressure range, and that the special pressure range is determined using the control value.

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