Cleaning assembly for sucking material by a suction device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cleaning assembly (300) for sucking materials by a suction device (254; 268), comprising: an adapter device (10; 110) having a first turbine assembly (12; 112) drivable by a primary suction air flow of the suction device (254; 268), a second turbine assembly (18; 118) drivable to generate a secondary suction air flow for sucking materials, and a transfer adapter connected to the first turbine assembly (12; 112) and the second turbine assembly (18; 118). an adapter device (10; 110) in which driving of a first turbine assembly (12; 112) by the primary suction air flow can be used to drive a second turbine assembly (18; 118) to generate a secondary suction air flow via a transmission assembly (20; 120); and at least one collection container assembly (41) adapted to separate and contain suction material suctioned by the secondary suction air flow from the secondary suction air flow.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning assembly for sucking up a substance by means of a suction device. [Background technology]

[0002] Suction devices with a cleaning function, so-called suction cleaning devices, are known in the prior art. These suction cleaning devices can be configured as dry vacuum cleaners, wet vacuum cleaners, or even combined wet / dry vacuum cleaners. Dry vacuum cleaners are typically used primarily in homes because they are relatively inexpensive and many variations are available on the market. This also applies to commercial cleaning, such as hotel room cleaning. However, suction devices that are not specifically designed for cleaning purposes are also known. In such cases, they are generally referred to as vacuum sources rather than suction devices.

[0003] When liquid or moist air is sucked in using a dry suction machine, this can lead to many problems. The liquid can enter the suction turbine of the dry suction machine and damage the suction turbine. The liquid can also generally contain water. Furthermore, the liquid can come into contact with other electrical components of the dry suction machine in addition to the suction turbine. This can damage or destroy the electrical components. Furthermore, liquid coming into contact with electrical components can pose a safety risk to operators. Furthermore, dry suction machines generally include an air filter, which is located upstream of the suction turbine to remove impurities such as dust from the air sucked in by the suction turbine before it is supplied to the suction turbine. If the air filter comes into contact with liquid or if the concentration of moisture from the sucked air increases within the air filter, damage to the filter can occur.

[0004] The problems exemplarily described above mean that dry suction machines cannot be used for wet suction or combined wet / dry suction.

[0005] However, there are situations in which it is beneficial to also suction liquid or moist air. For example, most surfaces to be cleaned require treatment with a liquid to achieve good cleaning results. However, the liquid applied to the surface to be cleaned often must be removed from the surface after treatment, along with any dirt absorbed by the liquid. Flood cleanup is also a consideration. During floods, it is often necessary to remove a mixture of water and dirt from building parts, especially basements. It is desirable for this removal to be carried out quickly in order to minimize damage to the building's construction materials. Typical dry vacuum cleaners are inadequate for all of the above-mentioned uses. Wet vacuum cleaners or combined wet / dry vacuum cleaners are often not present in homes, for example. This is due in part to their high purchase cost and their often space-consuming design. During floods, wet vacuum cleaners or combined wet / dry vacuum cleaners are often not available quickly enough because demand is high and commercially available wet vacuum cleaners or combined wet / dry vacuum cleaners quickly sell out.

[0006] When cleaning hotel rooms, they are generally cleaned with a dry vacuum cleaner. The associated bathrooms and associated wet areas, on the other hand, are only cleaned with a dry vacuum cleaner if it is ensured that moisture is not sucked in. However, it is especially advantageous for the cleaning of wet areas to be able to suck in the liquid dispensed during the cleaning process, or a mixture of liquid and / or air. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a simple solution for sucking liquids in. It is also an object of the present invention to provide an inexpensive solution for sucking liquids in. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] At least one of the above-mentioned problems is solved by a cleaning assembly according to claim 1. The dependent claims relate to advantageous refinements of the invention.

[0009] The present invention provides a cleaning assembly for sucking a substance by means of a suction device, comprising: an adapter device, a first turbine assembly drivable by the primary suction airflow of the suction device; a second turbine assembly operable to generate a secondary suction airflow for drawing in the suction material; a transmission assembly coupled to the first turbine assembly and the second turbine assembly; an adapter device, wherein driving of the first turbine assembly by the primary suction airflow is available to drive a second turbine assembly via a transmission assembly to generate a secondary suction airflow; at least one collection bin assembly adapted to separate and contain inhaled matter inhaled by the secondary inhalation airflow; The present invention relates to a cleaning assembly including:

[0010] In the present invention, "making available" may include the driving action generated on the first turbine assembly by the primary intake airflow acting at least in part on and / or being transmitted to the transmission assembly, and the transmission assembly being arranged to transmit this driving action at least in part to the second turbine assembly to drive the second turbine assembly.

[0011] The present invention allows the primary intake airflow to be used as a driving means for generating a secondary intake airflow. At the same time, two distinct intake airflows are generated. The primary intake airflow serves the function of driving a primary turbine assembly, which in turn drives a second turbine assembly for generating the secondary intake airflow via a transmission assembly. The secondary intake airflow serves the function of sucking or collecting the sucked material from the surface to be cleaned. The sucked material can be solid material, such as dust or dirt particles, or liquid and / or moisture. Of course, the sucked material is preferably at least partially separated from the secondary intake airflow before being fed to the secondary turbine assembly, thereby avoiding damage to the secondary turbine assembly. That is, the second turbine assembly may be configured to draw air through the catch basin assembly or catch basin of the catch basin assembly with the secondary inlet air flow, the catch basin assembly or catch basin being adapted to separate and at least partially contain the inlet matter from the secondary inlet air flow.

[0012] The present invention makes it possible to provide a dry suction device as a suction device, which can suck in liquids and / or moist air. The adapter device in this case separates the primary suction air flow from the secondary suction air flow, thereby preventing damage to the dry suction device by suction substances, especially moist air and / or liquids. That is, the suction device sucks in the primary suction air flow but not the secondary suction air flow. This also prevents the risk of a short circuit in the dry suction device.

[0013] The cleaning assembly according to the invention is a compact and convenient solution that allows a dry vacuum cleaner to suck up suction material containing liquid and / or moist air. In this case, the suction material is separated from the secondary suction air flow and stored in a collection container. Therefore, there is no risk of moist or wet suction material coming into contact with the dry vacuum cleaner, because the primary and secondary suction air flows are structurally separated from each other and guided in the adapter device.

[0014] In one refinement of the invention, it can be provided that the collection vessel assembly is designed to be connectable to an adapter device, and in this case, it can be provided, for example, that the collection vessel assembly is separable from the adapter device, i.e., the cleaning assembly can be disassembled into a number of small individual parts, for example, for transport purposes, for storage, for emptying the collection vessel assembly, or for maintenance thereof.

[0015] In one alternative configuration, it may be provided that the adapter device and the collection vessel assembly are firmly, in particular rigidly, connected to one another in the coupled state, which allows for simple force transmission between the adapter device and the collection vessel assembly.

[0016] In one refinement of the invention, it may be provided that the adapter device and the collection vessel assembly are formed as an integral component. In other words, the adapter device and the collection vessel assembly are permanently connected to one another and structurally coupled to one another. This allows for a particularly compact construction of the cleaning assembly. Furthermore, the adapter device and the collection vessel assembly then form one structural unit.

[0017] In one alternative configuration of the invention, the cleaning assembly may further include a hose assembly adapted to connect the adapter device and the collecting receptacle assembly. This allows the adapter device to be spatially separated from the collecting receptacle assembly, while still allowing a secondary suction air flow to be directed from the collecting receptacle assembly to the adapter device. That is, the adapter device can be carried by the operator, for example, in the form of a backpack. Meanwhile, other components of the cleaning assembly, such as the collecting receptacle assembly or the cleaning tool, can also be operated, and in particular moved, by the operator. This allows the parts to be operated by the operator to be relatively lightweight.

[0018] In one aspect of the invention, it may be provided that the collection vessel assembly and / or the adapter device includes a geometric body of revolution.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present invention, the collection vessel assembly may be substantially tubular, in particular cylindrical. This facilitates a particularly compact design. Furthermore, the tubular design reduces the number of internal corners and edges, thereby reducing the accumulation of components of the suction material on the corners and edges of the collection vessel assembly. Furthermore, the tubular design allows for a good grip for the operator. In addition to the tubular design, other geometric shapes or combinations thereof may also be provided. Spherical, rectangular, cuboidal, prismatic, cylindrical, pyramidal, conical, or other polygonal bodies, as well as extrudable bodies, are conceivable. Generally, the term "tubular" refers to an elongated hollow body configured to guide the medium.

[0020] In one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the length of the collection vessel assembly is several times its height and / or width and / or diameter, preferably in a ratio of at least 5:1, particularly preferably at least 8:1.

[0021] In one embodiment of the invention, the collection vessel assembly may include at least one viewing window, which allows an operator to view the interior of the collection vessel assembly and thereby detect, for example, the level of the fill surface of the suction material in the collection vessel assembly. In this way, the operator can also more easily recognize when the collection vessel assembly needs to be emptied.

[0022] In one refinement of the invention, it may be provided that the collection vessel assembly or collection vessel comprises a transparent material at least over a certain section. For example, the collection vessel assembly may be made entirely of a transparent material. This also allows the operator to see into the collection vessel assembly and thus to detect, for example, the level of the fill surface of the suction material in the collection vessel assembly. In this way, the operator can more easily recognize when the collection vessel assembly needs to be emptied.

[0023] In one aspect of the invention, the collection receptacle assembly includes a discharge opening that allows for removal of the trapped material from the collection receptacle assembly. A cover assembly may be provided that allows for opening or closing the discharge opening. Additionally or alternatively, the dischargeability of the collection receptacle assembly may be defined via an interface by which the collection receptacle assembly is connected to or connectable with an adapter device.

[0024] In one embodiment of the present invention, it may be provided that the collection receptacle assembly and / or the adapter device are formed as a support structure for the cleaning assembly. This results in a particularly stable configuration of the cleaning assembly, i.e., forces and / or torques can be transmitted, for example, from one region of the collection receptacle assembly to another region of the collection receptacle assembly. This facilitates cleaning using the cleaning assembly, because the cleaning tool is also connected to the collection receptacle assembly, and moving the collection receptacle assembly can also move the cleaning tool. Additionally or alternatively, it may be provided that the adapter device or the cleaning assembly includes a support structure to which the collection receptacle assembly can be connected.

[0025] In one embodiment of the present invention, the collecting receptacle assembly and / or the adapter device may be configured to be variably, in particular tiltably, movably. In this case, the collecting receptacle assembly may be variably, in particular tiltably, movably together with and / or separately from other components of the cleaning assembly. This allows for easy handling of the collecting receptacle assembly and / or the adapter device. "Variably" may include the collecting receptacle assembly and / or the adapter device being swivelable in one plane, in two planes, and / or in multiple planes. Furthermore, swivelability about one or more pivot axes or a rotation point may be defined. The planes, pivot axes, or rotation points may be configured to be fixed or variably oriented relative to the collecting receptacle assembly and / or the adapter device. The planes and / or pivot axes may be oriented perpendicular to each other or at a specified angle. In this context, when we refer to "positionable" or "pivotable," this can also encompass "tiltable" or "tiltable." "Positionable" can mean that purely translational position changes are not included; that is, "positionable" can be limited to one or more rotational position changes or combined translational-translational position changes.

[0026] In one embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning assembly may include a closure body that, in its closed position, is configured to close a passage through which the primary or secondary intake air flow passes during operation. Furthermore, the closure body may be configured to release the primary or secondary intake air flow in its open position. In the case of the secondary intake air flow, the closure body, in its closed position, can reliably ensure that the suctioned material, particularly liquid, does not escape from the collection receptacle assembly to the second turbine assembly. This also allows for reliable storage and transportation of the cleaning assembly. The closure body may be configured to assume the closed position when the suctioned material in the collection receptacle assembly reaches a predetermined level or amount. In the case of the primary intake air flow, the closure position can reliably ensure that the suctioned material does not accidentally reach the suction device despite the separation of the two intake air flows.

[0027] In another aspect of the invention, the cleaning assembly includes a force actuator for generating an actuation force that can urge the closure into a closed position and / or an open position. The force actuator can include a magnetic force for generating the actuation force. The force actuator can be actuable and / or deactuable. The force actuator can be controllable. Preferably, the force actuator is controlled or activated and / or deactivated in relation to a control signal. The control signal can be based on signals from sensors in the collection receptacle assembly, such as a tilt sensor and / or a fill level sensor.

[0028] In one refinement of the invention, the cleaning assembly includes a control assembly adapted to control at least the force actuator, preferably based on a signal, for example, a signal from a fill level sensor provided in the collection receptacle assembly for measuring the fill level of the suctioned material, for example, a signal from a tilt sensor or the like for measuring the tilt of the collection receptacle assembly.

[0029] In one refinement of the invention, the cleaning assembly includes at least one gripping assembly, which is adapted for gripping by an operator and is rigidly or connectably connected to the adapter device and / or the collection container assembly. This can facilitate the handling of the cleaning assembly for the operator. This can also facilitate handling of the cleaning assembly outside of use and operation, for example during transport or storage. The connectable configuration allows the operator to provide the gripping assembly when it is actually advantageous to the operator, and to correspondingly disconnect the gripping assembly when it is not needed. "Rigidly connected" can include an integral configuration.

[0030] In one configuration of the present invention, it may be provided that the gripping assembly has an operable coupling mechanism for coupling, which is adapted to couple and / or decouple the gripping assembly to the adapter device and / or the collection container assembly during operation. That is, the gripping assembly can be easily added or removed. That is, the operator can provide the gripping assembly only when it is actually advantageous. When the cleaning assembly is to be stored, for example, the gripping assembly can be easily removed to keep the cleaning assembly compact.

[0031] In another aspect of the present invention, the grip assembly may include a handgrip portion that can be grasped by a user and a grip base portion, the grip base portion being adapted for connection with the adapter device and / or the transfer assembly, and the position of the handgrip portion relative to the handgrip base portion may be adjustable. This allows the operator to easily adjust the ergonomic position of the grip assembly. When the cleaning assembly is stored, the grip assembly can be brought to a compact position.

[0032] In one refinement of the invention, it may be provided that the cleaning assembly further comprises a tool connection interface for connection to a cleaning tool, and that the secondary suction air flow can be led from the cleaning tool by means of the tool connection interface. The tool connection interface makes it possible to connect various cleaning tools to the cleaning assembly, which makes the cleaning assembly versatile.

[0033] The tool connection interface is preferably formed on the collection container assembly or on a tool connection module connected to the collection container, so that the sucked-in material can be supplied directly to the collection container assembly, thereby providing a compact overall construction of the cleaning assembly.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present invention, it may be provided that the tool connection interface includes an electrical contact assembly adapted to form an electrical contact with the cleaning tool. This electrical contact can serve, for example, to transmit sensor signals to or from the cleaning tool. Furthermore, via this electrical contact, the cleaning tool can be supplied with an electric current, for example, to operate an electric motor for driving the cleaning tool, for example, a cleaning brush or a cleaning roller.

[0035] In one refinement of the invention, it may be provided that the tool connection interface is adapted to substantially rigidly couple the cleaning tool or part of the cleaning tool, which allows force transmission to the cleaning tool during operation.

[0036] In one aspect of the present invention, it may be provided that the cleaning assembly includes at least one current supply interface for forming an electrical contact with a current source. Advantageously, the current supply interface is formed on the adapter device or the collection container assembly. The current supply interface allows the current source to provide additional electrical energy. This additional electrical energy can be used, for example, to operate a cleaning tool connected to the cleaning assembly.

[0037] In one configuration of the invention, it may be provided that the current supply interface includes a holding assembly, the holding assembly being adapted to removably receive the accumulator battery.

[0038] In one refinement, the cleaning assembly includes a primary connection interface for connection with the suction device, through which a primary suction air flow can be delivered from the adapter device to drive the first turbine assembly. It may be provided that the primary connection interface is adapted to the suction device, particularly in terms of its geometric shape and / or size. For this purpose, an adjustment mechanism may be provided that can be operated to change the geometric shape or size of the primary connection interface. Additionally or alternatively, the primary connection interface may have multiple interface sections for connection with each suction device. These interface sections may have various geometric shapes or sizes. Overall, this configuration allows corresponding or connecting portions of suction devices with various geometric shapes to be connectable with the primary connection interface. Therefore, the adapter device can be connected to or compatible with a large number of commercially available suction devices. The adapter device is therefore versatile and can be connected to a variety of suction devices. The primary connection interface may include a screw thread, a bayonet closure, a clamping mechanism, or the like.

[0039] In one embodiment of the present invention, the primary connection interface may be configured to substantially rigidly couple the suction device to the adapter device, allowing for force transmission between the suction device and the adapter device. If the secondary connection interface and the collection container are also configured rigidly, they can form a single rigid unit, which can be easily manipulated.

[0040] In one refinement of the invention, the cleaning assembly further includes a hose assembly, which is connected to the adapter device for guiding the primary suction air flow. Preferably, the hose assembly is connected to the primary connection interface in this case. The hose assembly allows the suction device to be arranged separately and movably relative to the adapter device. That is, the suction device can be carried, for example, by the operator in the form of a backpack. The primary suction air flow can then be guided from the adapter device via the hose assembly. This allows the cleaning assembly to remain relatively lightweight and be easily manipulated by the operator. Preferably, the hose assembly is elastically shaped.

[0041] In one refinement of the invention, the cleaning assembly further includes a hose assembly connecting the adapter device and the collecting container assembly to each other. The hose assembly is preferably connected to the primary connection interface in this case. The hose assembly allows at least the adapter device to be arranged separately and movably relative to the collecting container assembly. That is, the adapter device, together with the suction device, can be carried by the operator, for example, in the form of a backpack. The primary suction air flow can then be directed out of the collecting container assembly via the hose assembly. This allows the part of the cleaning assembly that the operator must carry on his arm to remain relatively lightweight. Preferably, the hose assembly is elastically configured.

[0042] In one refinement of the invention, the cleaning assembly comprises at least one fresh water container for containing fresh water. In this case, "fresh water" means a liquid, in particular water intended for cleaning, preferably uncontaminated. A cleaning substance, such as soap, cleaning agent or the like, may be added to the fresh water. Preferably, the cleaning assembly comprises a water delivery assembly, which is adapted to deliver fresh water from the fresh water container to the surface to be cleaned. For this purpose, the water delivery assembly may preferably be provided with an operable valve. This valve allows the operator to adjust the amount of water delivered.

[0043] In one aspect of the invention, the catch bin assembly includes a riser pipe adapted to direct the secondary intake airflow at least partially into the catch bin assembly.

[0044] One aspect relates to an adapter device for a suction device, in particular a suction cleaning device, comprising a first turbine assembly drivable by a primary suction air flow of the suction device, a second turbine assembly drivable to generate a secondary suction air flow, and a transmission assembly connected to the first turbine assembly and the second turbine assembly, wherein the drive of the first turbine assembly by the primary suction air flow can be used to drive the second turbine assembly via the transmission assembly to generate the secondary suction air flow.

[0045] "Making available" may include the driving action generated by the primary intake airflow on the first turbine assembly acting at least in part on and / or being transmitted to the transmission assembly, and the transmission assembly being arranged to transmit this driving action at least in part to the second turbine assembly to drive the second turbine assembly.

[0046] In one embodiment, the primary intake air flow can be used as a driving means for generating a secondary intake air flow. At the same time, two distinct intake air flows are generated. The primary intake air flow serves the function of driving the primary turbine assembly, which in turn drives the second turbine assembly for generating the secondary intake air flow via a transmission assembly. The secondary intake air flow serves the function of sucking or collecting the sucked material from the surface to be cleaned. The sucked material can include solid materials, such as dust or dirt particles, or liquid and / or moisture. Of course, the sucked material is preferably at least partially separated from the secondary intake air flow before being supplied to the secondary turbine assembly, thereby avoiding damage to the secondary turbine assembly. The second turbine assembly can be configured to suck air from a collection container, which is designed to collect liquid, via the secondary intake air flow. Generally speaking, the collection vessel may be adapted to at least partially contain the inhaled material.

[0047] The present invention allows for the provision of a dry suction device, which can suck in liquids and / or moist air. The adapter device separates the primary suction air flow from the secondary suction air flow, thereby preventing damage to the dry suction device by the suction material, in particular moist air and / or liquids, and thus avoiding the risk of a short circuit in the dry suction device.

[0048] In one refinement of the invention, the adapter device further comprises a barrier assembly providing at least one liquid barrier between the first turbine assembly and the second turbine assembly. The barrier assembly can then serve as a kind of splash guard. This splash guard prevents, for example, liquid from reaching the first turbine assembly from the second turbine assembly. That is, the barrier assembly can comprise a labyrinth-like assembly. A related aspect of the invention further provides that the barrier assembly separates the first turbine assembly and the second turbine assembly substantially liquid-tight, in particular fluid-tight, from each other. This ensures that at least liquid, and in particular moisture, cannot reach the second turbine assembly from the first turbine assembly. This prevents liquid from entering the secondary intake air flow, which could damage the intake device. "Fluid-tight separation" in this case means that there is no exchange of media between the second turbine assembly and the first turbine assembly. Therefore, the two intake air flows are guided completely separate from each other, at least within the adapter device. This ensures extremely safe and reliable operation of the adapter device with a dry suction pump. In other words, the barrier assembly may be configured to separate the primary intake air flow and the secondary intake air flow from each other, so that liquid and / or moisture cannot substantially flow from the secondary intake air flow into the primary intake air flow. In one refinement of the invention, it may be provided that the barrier assembly includes a seal assembly. The seal assembly may include a labyrinth seal.

[0049] In one aspect of the invention, the barrier assembly may be adapted to at least partially support or at least partially form the transfer assembly, which allows for a compact construction of the adapter device.

[0050] In one advantageous configuration of the present invention, the adapter device further includes a primary connection interface adapted for connection with the suction device for driving the first turbine assembly with the primary suction air flow. It may be provided that the primary connection interface is adapted to the suction device, particularly in terms of its geometric shape and / or size. For this purpose, an adjustment mechanism may be provided that can be operated to change the geometric shape or size of the primary connection interface. Additionally or alternatively, the primary connection interface may have multiple interface sections for connection with the respective suction devices. These interface sections may have various geometric shapes and / or sizes. Overall, these configurations allow corresponding or connecting components of suction devices with various geometric shapes to be connectable with the primary connection interface. This allows the adapter device to be connected to or compatible with a large number of suction devices available on the market. This makes the adapter device versatile and connectable to a variety of suction devices. The primary connection interface may include a screw thread, a bayonet closure, a clamping mechanism, a threaded coupling, or the like.

[0051] Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that the adapter device is connectable to a primary connection module. In this case, the primary connection module has a primary connection interface as described above. That is, the adapter device may be provided with a connection part having a defined geometric shape for connection to the primary connection module. Thus, the structure of the adapter device remains simple due to the connection part, and the adapter device is nevertheless connectable or compatible with a number of suction devices, each via the primary connection module.

[0052] In one refinement of the invention, it is provided that the transmission assembly mechanically, pneumatically, hydraulically, or electrically couples the first turbine assembly to the second turbine assembly, or a combination thereof, in order to make the drive of the first turbine assembly available for driving the second turbine assembly. For example, it may be provided that the transmission assembly is configured to generate electrical energy based on the drive of the first turbine assembly. In this case, the second turbine assembly can be driven by electrical energy. That is, the transmission assembly may have a corresponding generator and a corresponding motor-type drive. Furthermore, the transmission assembly may be configured so that the drive of the first turbine assembly causes a fluid, such as hydraulic oil, in the transmission assembly to be manipulated. In this case, the transmission assembly is further configured to drive the second turbine assembly based on the manipulation of the fluid.

[0053] In one refinement of the invention, it may be provided that the transmission assembly includes a shaft, the first turbine assembly is adapted to drive the shaft, and the shaft is adapted to drive a second turbine assembly to generate the secondary intake air flow. The shaft may be driven indirectly or directly. Furthermore, the second turbine assembly may also be driven indirectly or directly. In other words, in the case of a direct drive, it may be provided that the shaft connects the first turbine assembly and the second turbine assembly to each other in a particularly rigid manner. In the case of an indirect drive, for example, a clutch and / or a transmission, in particular a transmission with a speed-up or speed-down function, is conceivable.

[0054] In one refinement of the invention, it may be provided that the barrier assembly at least partially supports the shaft, which allows the barrier assembly to take on additional functions, and overall this facilitates a compact construction of the adapter device.

[0055] In one advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first turbine assembly includes a primary turbine wheel, which is adapted to rotate about a primary rotation axis, and the second turbine assembly includes a secondary turbine wheel, which is adapted to rotate about a secondary rotation axis, the primary and secondary rotation axes being arranged substantially parallel to each other or coincident with each other. It should be noted that the primary turbine wheel can be driven by a primary intake airflow, and the secondary turbine wheel is adapted to generate a secondary intake airflow. In one preferred embodiment of the invention, the primary and secondary rotation axes are congruent, i.e., coincident with each other. This configuration refers to a special form of parallelism, i.e., a completely coincident arrangement of the two rotation axes. This allows for a particularly compact design of the adapter device.

[0056] In this regard, it may be specified that the secondary intake air flow, when the second turbine assembly is operating, first flows parallel to the secondary rotation axis, thereby supplying the secondary turbine wheel, and then flows radially relative to the secondary rotation axis, thereby flowing away from the secondary turbine wheel. The movement of the secondary turbine wheel thereby acts as an additional barrier between the secondary intake air flow and the primary intake air flow, preventing, in particular, the passage of liquid and / or moisture. This may be due to centrifugal forces acting on liquid and / or moisture and / or dirt that may have adhered to the secondary turbine wheel during operation and carrying such liquid and / or moisture and / or dirt away in the radial direction. Alternatively, the secondary intake air flow may also continue to flow parallel to the rotation axis or at any angle relative to the rotation axis, thereby flowing away from the secondary turbine wheel. It may also be specified that the secondary intake air flow exits within a specified angular range around the secondary rotation axis. Preferably, the primary intake airflow enters the adapter device and flows to the primary turbine wheel from outside this angular range.

[0057] In one refinement, it may be provided that the adapter device includes a speed reducer or speed increaser. The speed reducer or speed increaser may be provided in a transmission assembly. For this purpose, a transmission device may be provided that changes the rotational speed of the first turbine assembly to another rotational speed for the second turbine assembly. However, the speed reducer or speed increaser may also be formed by different configurations of the turbine wheels of the turbine assemblies, for example by different blade geometries of the turbine wheels or different sizes of the turbine wheels.

[0058] In one advantageous refinement of the invention, the adapter device includes an operable valve assembly, which is adapted to adjust the amount of air from the primary intake air flow acting on the first turbine assembly. The operable valve assembly may be configured as a throttle flap in this case. The operable valve assembly allows the adapter device to be connected to intake devices with various intake powers or intake air flows. If the intake device has a very strong intake power, for example, the valve assembly can be at least partially open, so that only a portion of the primary intake air flow acts on the first turbine assembly. In the case of intake devices with a small intake power, the valve assembly can be completely or almost completely closed. The term "operable" can include the fact that the valve assembly adjusts the amount of air from the primary intake air flow acting on the first turbine assembly in relation to the strength of the primary intake air flow. A spring assembly is contemplated that opens or closes the flap of the valve assembly in relation to the strength of the primary intake air flow. The term "strength" may include a defined volumetric flow. In addition to the spring assembly, another mechanism may be provided that is at least partially automatic.

[0059] In one advantageous embodiment of the invention, the adapter device further includes a secondary connection interface for connecting the adapter device to a module, such that in the connected state a secondary suction air flow can be at least partially led out of the module. The module preferably includes a collection container for collecting liquid and / or dirt, but may also include a suction pipe, a floor unit, or a cleaning tool. The secondary connection interface may include a thread, a bayonet closure, a clamping mechanism, a screw connection, or the like.

[0060] In one refinement of the invention, it can be provided that a module capable of directing a secondary intake air flow is formed integrally with the adapter device, which can include, for example, a collecting container for collecting liquid and / or dirt.

[0061] In one refinement of the invention, the adapter device further comprises a collection container for collecting liquid and / or dirt.

[0062] In one refinement of the invention, the adapter device further comprises at least one first electrical contact assembly for supplying the adapter device with an electric current, and preferably further comprises a second electrical contact assembly for at least partially transmitting the electric current to a module coupled to the adapter device, the module comprising, for example, a cleaning tool that can be driven by an electric motor, the cleaning tool being drivable by an electric current.

[0063] In one refinement of the invention, the adapter device includes a generator adapted to generate and supply a current to a module, such as a tool, connected to the adapter device. For this purpose, the adapter device may be provided with at least one connection for discharging the current. The generator may be powered by the primary or secondary suction air flow. The generator may generate a voltage level of, for example, 12 or 24 volts. This voltage level differs from the voltage level of standard suction devices, which typically operate at 230 volts. Of course, this voltage level is hardly dangerous and is typically used to power tools or sensors.

[0064] In one advantageous embodiment of the invention, the adapter device may further be provided with a receiving interface for coupling with an additional energy source, preferably a battery, which allows the adapter device to be supplied with additional energy, e.g., current, which may be intended, for example, to supply a module coupled to the adapter device, e.g., a cleaning tool that can be driven by an electric motor.

[0065] In one configuration of the invention, the adapter device further includes a gripping assembly formed on or connectable to the adapter device, the gripping assembly adapted to be manipulated by an operator to move the adapter device, which facilitates manipulation of the adapter device by the operator.

[0066] In one refinement of the invention, the adapter device further comprises a housing, in which case the first turbine assembly and / or the second turbine assembly and / or the transmission assembly are at least partially enclosed by the housing.

[0067] In another refinement of the invention, the housing comprises at least one first housing part and a second housing part, which are configured to be connectable to one another. For example, the housing parts may be connectable to one another by a bayonet closure, a screw thread or the like. The housing parts facilitate assembly and maintenance of the adapter device. That is, the housing may be configured modularly.

[0068] In one refinement of the invention, the adapter device is modular. That is, for example, the first turbine assembly and / or the second turbine assembly and / or the transmission assembly and / or the housing or housing portion may each form a module. It may further be provided that these modules are designed to be separably connectable to one another. The modular design and connectability allow for simple assembly. Furthermore, the adapter device can be easily disassembled for cleaning, maintenance, or replacement. Furthermore, the turbine wheels of the turbine assembly can be easily exchanged, for example, to adapt the adapter device to vacuum sources with different suction outputs.

[0069] In one embodiment of the present invention, the transmission assembly and / or the second turbine assembly and / or the first turbine assembly may be configured to be activatable and deactivatable, particularly controllable. A control unit may be provided for this purpose, which may, for example, activate and deactivate the transmission assembly. Furthermore, a sensor assembly may be provided, in which case the transmission assembly and / or the second turbine assembly and / or the first turbine assembly may be activatable and deactivatable based on a signal from the sensor assembly. The sensor may be a fill level sensor for measuring the fill level of the suction material in the collection container. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor may be a humidity sensor. The signal may indicate, for example, the exceeding of a specified humidity value in the secondary suction air flow. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor may be a tilt sensor.

[0070] In one refinement of the invention, the adapter device may have at least one tertiary connection interface, in which case the secondary intake air flow can be at least partially discharged via the tertiary connection interface. The tertiary connection interface may be adapted, for example, for connection with a hose. That is, the tertiary connection interface may include a suction connection. In this way, air and / or liquid drawn in by the secondary intake air flow, i.e., the drawn-in substance, can be at least partially discharged via the tertiary connection interface and supplied to a hose for discharge. This is particularly advantageous when the drawn-in substance is not or only partially removed from the secondary intake air flow before entering the adapter device. Even in this case, the drawn-in substance cannot enter the primary intake air flow and the suction device. Liquids that can be drawn in by the adapter device and discharged from the adapter device via the tertiary connection interface are conceivable. That is, drawn-in substances such as liquids can be drawn into the adapter device in a controlled manner and then discharged again. That is, large amounts of liquid can be drawn in and deliberately discharged, as is often necessary, for example, after flood disasters. Instead of or in addition to the tertiary connection interface, a module such as a hose can also be formed integrally with the adapter device for the discharge of the suctioned substance.

[0071] Furthermore, the present invention provides: an adapter device according to one of the previously described types; an intake device coupled to the first turbine assembly for generating a primary intake airflow; The present invention relates to a cleaning assembly including:

[0072] The suction device can be a suction cleaning device, in particular a dry vacuum cleaner, for example a handheld vacuum cleaner or a general-purpose dust vacuum cleaner. The suction device can be powered by a battery.

[0073] The adapter device may be rigidly attached to the cleaning assembly and / or formed integrally with the cleaning assembly. Alternatively, the adapter device may be formed as a replaceable module of the cleaning assembly. Generally, the term "adapter" may be broadly interpreted to include an integral configuration as well as a modular configuration connected to another component via an interface. "Integral" means forming a single, integrated unit with one or more other components or modules. Furthermore, even when the term "interface" is used, an integral configuration of components connected to each other via so-called "contacts" (interfaces) may be specified instead of a connectable configuration.

[0074] The advantages, features and configurations described in connection with the adapter device also apply correspondingly to the cleaning assembly, and vice versa.

[0075] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0076] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an adapter device according to the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic view of an adapter device according to the invention connected to a collection vessel; [Figure 3] 10 is an exploded view of another embodiment of an adapter device according to the present invention; FIG. [Figure 4] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of an adapter device according to the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cleaning assembly. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an exemplary exploded view of a collection vessel assembly. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a partially exploded view of an exemplary cleaning assembly. [Figure 8] 1 is an exemplary illustration of a cleaning assembly coupled to an exemplary suction device. FIG. [Figure 9] 10A-10C are exemplary diagrams illustrating an adapter device with an exemplary connectable suction device. [Figure 10a] FIG. 10 is an exemplary exploded view of a third grip assembly. [Figure 10b] FIG. 10 is an exploded view illustrating an example of a fourth grip assembly. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 illustrates a cleaning assembly with an exemplary cleaning tool. [Figure 12a] FIG. 10 is a detailed view illustrating an exemplary connection module. [Figure 12b] FIG. 10 is another detailed view of an exemplary connection module. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a detailed view illustrating an example tool connection module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0077] 1 relates to a schematic diagram of an adapter device 10 according to the invention for an intake system. The adapter device 10 includes a first turbine assembly 12, which is drivable by a primary intake air flow 14. The adapter device 10 further includes a second turbine assembly 16, which is drivable to generate a secondary intake air flow 18. The adapter device 10 further includes a transmission assembly 20, which is coupled to the first turbine assembly 12 and the second turbine assembly 16. The transmission assembly 20 is configured such that the drive of the first turbine assembly 12 by the primary intake air flow 14 is available to drive the second turbine assembly 16 to generate the secondary intake air flow 18.

[0078] "Making available" may mean that the driving force generated by the primary intake air flow 14 on the first turbine assembly 12 acts at least partially on and / or is transmitted to the transmission assembly 20, and that the transmission assembly 20 is adapted to transmit this driving force at least partially to the second turbine assembly 16 to drive the second turbine assembly 16.

[0079] The adapter apparatus 10 includes a housing 22 that encloses the first turbine assembly 12, the second turbine assembly 16, and the transmission assembly 20. The adapter apparatus 10 further includes a barrier assembly 24 that is disposed within the housing 22 and divides the housing 22 into a first or upper housing section 26 and a second or lower housing section 28. The barrier assembly 24 extends through the schematic illustration of the transmission assembly 20. The barrier assembly 24 provides a substantially fluid-impermeable barrier such that, for example, liquid or air cannot be exchanged between the housing sections 26, 28, at least within the housing 22.

[0080] The first turbine assembly 12 has a primary connection interface 30 formed at its upper end, which is adapted to be coupled to a suction device. For this purpose, the primary connection interface 30 is formed with a circular cross section, although other shapes are also possible. In this embodiment, for simplicity, the suction device is not shown. However, the primary suction air flow 14 generated by the suction device and acting on the first turbine assembly 12 is shown. When the suction device is connected to the primary connection interface 26 and in operation, resulting in the generation of the primary suction air flow 14, the primary suction air flow 14 originates from an suction opening 32 formed on the side of the first turbine assembly 12, flows through the first turbine assembly 12, exits the first turbine assembly 12 through the primary connection interface 30, and enters the suction device. At this time, the primary suction air flow 14 drives the first turbine assembly 12. The transmission assembly 20 is adapted to make the drive of the first turbine assembly 12 available for driving the second turbine assembly 16. To this end, the transmission assembly 20 may include, as shown in this example, a shaft assembly 34. This shaft assembly 34 mechanically couples the first turbine assembly 12 with the second turbine assembly 16, thereby transmitting the mechanical motion of the first turbine assembly 12, in particular the turbine wheel of the first turbine assembly 12, to the second turbine assembly 16, in particular the turbine wheel of the second turbine assembly 16. Driving the second turbine assembly 16 generates a secondary intake air flow 18. That is, the secondary intake air flow 18 flows through a secondary connection interface 36 formed in the second turbine assembly 16 at the lower end of the housing 22 to an outlet opening 38. This outlet opening 38 is formed laterally in the housing 22 and laterally in the second turbine assembly 16 .In other words, when the second turbine assembly 16 is driven, a suction action occurs at the secondary connection interface 36, so that air, i.e., the secondary suction air flow 18, can be sucked in through the secondary connection interface 36. The secondary connection interface 36 is configured to be connected to a module, such as a suction pipe, a tool, or a floor unit. In this embodiment, the secondary connection interface 36 has a circular cross-section, although other shapes are also possible. The secondary suction air flow 18 can be used to suck in liquids or other suction substances. In this case, the adapter device 10 allows the primary suction air flow 14 to be separated from the secondary suction air flow 18. This means that suction substances, particularly liquids or moisture, cannot flow from the secondary suction air flow 18 into the primary suction air flow 14 or into the suction device. Nevertheless, the primary suction air flow 14 generated by the suction device can be used to generate a secondary suction air flow. Thus, by means of the adapter device 10, a suction device in the form of a dry suction pump can be functionally converted for wet suction. If, like a pump, a suction substance such as a liquid is to be sucked in by the adapter device 10 and discharged again, the outlet opening 38 can be configured as a connection interface, i.e., as a so-called tertiary connection interface, for a hose for conveying the liquid. Large volumes of liquid can thus be sucked in and discharged.

[0081] The housing 22 is cylindrical, although it may also be rectangular, circular, etc. Instead of connecting the modules via the secondary connection interface 36, the housing 22 may also be provided with a connection interface or coupling assembly, such as a thread or bayonet closure, by which a secondary suction air flow can be led out of the module, e.g., a collection vessel, for suction of the suction material.

[0082] 2 shows a schematic diagram of an adapter device 10 according to the invention, connected to a collection vessel 40 of a collection vessel assembly 41. The adapter device 10 is based on the adapter device 10 shown in FIG. 1, but differs in the following respects: As shown in FIG. 2, the lower housing section 28 forms the collection vessel 40 or collection vessel assembly 41. The first turbine assembly 12 is arranged inside the larger upper housing section 26. Due to the enlarged upper housing section 26, the primary connection interface 30 is formed in a pipe section 31, which connects the first turbine assembly 12 to the primary connection interface 30. A liquid collection area 42 is provided in the collection vessel 40. The secondary suction air flow 18 generates a negative pressure in the collecting container 40, so that the sucked material, in particular air and / or liquid and / or dirt, can be sucked in, for example, from the surface to be cleaned, via a suction pipe 44 arranged at the lower end of the housing 22 and leading into the collecting container 40. The liquid is separated in the liquid collecting area 42, so that only air is led out of the collecting container 40 via the secondary suction air flow 18. For this purpose, the suction pipe 44 projects through and beyond the liquid collecting area 42, so that the outlet opening 46 of the suction pipe 44 is arranged above the liquid collecting area 42. Furthermore, in the collection container 40, a splash-proof barrier 48 is formed between the outlet opening 46 and the second turbine assembly 16, and this splash-proof barrier 48 shields the outlet opening 46 in an umbrella-like manner at a distance from the outlet opening 46, preventing the suctioned material from reaching the second turbine assembly 16 directly after flowing out from the suction pipe 44.

[0083] FIG. 3 shows a schematic exploded view of another embodiment of an adapter device 110 according to the present invention. The adapter device 110 is based on the functional form of the adapter device 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, but has a special structure. The adapter device 110 includes a first housing section 126, a first turbine assembly 112 with a primary turbine wheel 150, a barrier assembly 124, a second turbine assembly 118 with a secondary turbine wheel 152, a transmission assembly 120 including a rigid shaft 154, and a second housing section 128. The shaft 154 is arranged along an axis A about which it rotates during operation. The shaft 154 is adjusted to position a first ball bearing 156 and a second ball bearing 158 in a central cylindrical region of the shaft 154. Additionally or alternatively, other types of rolling bearings may be provided. The ball bearings 156, 158 are adapted to radially and axially support the shaft 154 relative to the barrier assembly 124, with the shaft 154 rotatably disposed relative to the barrier assembly. To this end, the barrier assembly 124, which is substantially axially symmetrical about the axis A and symmetrical about a central plane disposed substantially perpendicular to the axis A, defines an opening 160 along its central axis, which coincides with the axis A. The opening 160 is adapted to position and receive the ball bearings 156, 158 and to contact the outer peripheral surfaces of the ball bearings. For this purpose, an interference fit may be provided. On both sides of the axis A, the shaft 154 defines a smaller-diameter outer peripheral geometry (not shown) that is adapted to position corresponding inner peripheral geometries formed on the primary turbine wheel 150 and the secondary turbine wheel 152, also disposed along the axis A. The peripheral geometry is adjusted to form a positive connection so that rotation of the primary turbine wheel 150 or the secondary turbine wheel 152 causes rotation of the shaft 154, and conversely, rotation of the shaft 154 causes rotation of the primary turbine wheel 150 or the secondary turbine wheel 152.Instead of or in addition to a positive connection, a force-fit connection may also be provided. The shaft 154 has an external thread at each end, again with a smaller diameter, onto which shaft nuts 162, 164 can be threaded. The first shaft nut 162 is adapted to axially mount the primary turbine wheel 150 to the shaft 154, and the second shaft nut 164 is adapted to axially mount the secondary turbine wheel 152 to the shaft 154 on the other side. The peripheral geometry regions adjacent to the central cylindrical region form a step or stop against the central cylindrical region, against which the first shaft nut 162 presses the primary turbine wheel 150, and the second shaft nut 164 presses the secondary turbine wheel 152. In this case, each stage is used to position the primary turbine wheel 150 or secondary turbine wheel 152 at a small distance relative to the barrier assembly 124, so that the primary turbine wheel 150 or secondary turbine wheel 152 is positioned to rotate freely relative to the barrier assembly and ball bearings 156, 158.

[0084] The primary turbine wheel 150 and the secondary turbine wheel 152 are substantially identical and are simply rotated 180 degrees around the shaft 154. Therefore, for simplicity, the following features described for one of the turbine wheels 150, 152 also apply to the other turbine wheel. The primary turbine wheel 150 is substantially flat on its side facing the barrier assembly 124 and has only an opening with an inner circumferential geometry for positioning and accommodating the shaft 120. The secondary turbine wheel 152 has a centrally located suction opening 166 on its side opposite the barrier assembly 124. The suction opening 166 is surrounded by an annular side surface 168 and protrudes relative to the side surface 168. The secondary turbine wheel 152 is formed with a number of turbine blades 170 positioned inward, which are arranged to generate airflow during movement of the secondary turbine wheel 152 or to cause movement of the secondary turbine wheel 152 based on the airflow. The turbine blades 170 are arranged to generate an airflow from the suction openings 166 outward toward radial openings 172 formed in the outer peripheral surface of the secondary turbine wheel 152 when the secondary turbine wheel 152 rotates in a first rotational direction about the axis A. This airflow corresponds to a secondary suction airflow. The first rotational direction corresponds to the rotational direction of the adapter device 110 during operation. When the secondary turbine wheel 152 rotates in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, the airflow originates from the radial openings 172 and passes through the secondary turbine wheel 152 toward the suction openings 166. As explained above, the primary turbine wheel 150 is configured similarly to the secondary turbine wheel 152, although the shape of the turbine blades may be modified or adapted.This can be attributed to the fact that the primary turbine wheel 150 is obviously configured to be driven using an intake air flow, i.e., a so-called primary intake air flow, directed from the radial opening 172 of the primary turbine wheel 150 to the air outlet opening 174 formed similarly to the intake opening 166, whereas the secondary turbine wheel 152 is, as described, adjusted to generate an air flow, i.e., a so-called secondary intake air flow, directed from the intake opening 166 to the radial opening 172 based on the rotation of the secondary turbine wheel 152 in the first rotational direction.

[0085] The suction opening 166 is adjusted to position and receive the second shaft nut 164 so that the second shaft nut 164 contacts the secondary turbine wheel 152 with an inner surface thereof and fixes the secondary turbine wheel 152 in an axial position on the shaft 154.

[0086] Accordingly, the air outlet opening 174 is adapted to position and receive the first shaft nut 162 so that the first shaft nut 162 contacts the primary turbine wheel 150 with an inboard surface thereof, axially fixing the primary turbine wheel 150 to the shaft 154. The inboard arrangement of the shaft nuts 162, 164 has the advantage of only slightly impairing the air flow.

[0087] The barrier assembly 124 is disk-shaped and substantially axially symmetrical about the axis A and about a central plane of the barrier assembly 124 that is disposed perpendicular to the axis A. Ribs 176 are formed on both sides in the direction of the axis A and are used to stiffen the barrier assembly 124. Since no passages are formed in the direction of the axis A other than the opening 160, fluid cannot pass through the barrier assembly 124. At least one seal assembly may be provided in the opening 160 for the ball bearings 156, 158, thereby preventing fluid from passing between the ball bearings 156, 158 and the barrier assembly 124. Similarly, a seal assembly may be provided in the region between the ball bearings 156, 158 and the shaft 154. The ball bearings 156, 158 are also formed fluid-tight. The barrier assembly 124 defines an annular center web 180 on its peripheral surface 178. On one side of the center web 180, along axis A toward the first turbine assembly 112, a first radial connecting surface 182 is defined, which is adapted to contact the first housing section 126 and attach the first housing section 126 to the barrier assembly 124. On the other side of the center web 180, in the opposite direction along axis A toward the second turbine assembly 118, a second radial connecting surface 184 is defined, which is adapted to contact the second housing section 128 and attach the second housing section 128 to the barrier assembly 124. For attachment, the connecting surfaces 182, 184 are each provided with a plurality of mounting pins 186, which together with the housing sections 126, 128 form a respective bayonet closure. Instead of a bayonet closure, another mounting assembly, such as a screw thread, may be provided. Additionally or alternatively, clips may be provided that lock together for attachment and can be separated again. Bayonet closures offer the advantage of simple operation.For a bayonet closure, coupling teeth are provided on the first connecting surface 182. The peripheral surface 178, such as the connecting surfaces 182, 184, may be provided with respective seal assemblies to provide a fluid-tight coupling between the respective housing portions 126, 128 and the barrier assembly 124.

[0088] The first housing part 126 has a crown-shaped section 188. This crown-shaped section 188 is hollow and is adapted to surround, in particular, the primary turbine wheel 150 and the barrier assembly 124 when attached by at least the first connecting surface 182. The crown-shaped section 188 has a number of air passage openings 190 that provide air contact for the primary turbine wheel 150 with the surrounding environment. That is, the primary intake airflow can flow through the air passage openings 190 to the primary turbine wheel 150 during operation. The crown-shaped section 188 also has an inner peripheral surface 192 that is adapted to contact the first connecting surface 182. For this purpose, the inner peripheral surface 192 has counterparts for a bayonet closure in the form of a plurality of groove assemblies that are adapted to position and receive respective coupling teeth provided on the barrier assembly 124.

[0089] The first housing part 126 further includes a primary connection interface 130 in the form of a tubular section. This tubular section is adapted to be connected to a hose or nozzle of a suction device, such as a dry vacuum cleaner. For this purpose, the hose or nozzle can be engaged by surrounding the tubular section or pressed into the tubular section. The tubular section is hollow and extends until it projects into the crown-shaped section 188. The first housing part 126 further includes a first connecting lug 183 and a second connecting lug 185. These connecting lugs are formed on opposite sides of the first housing part 126 in the radial direction with respect to the axis A. The connecting lugs, in cooperation with a coupling assembly optionally formed on the suction device, are used to firmly but removably connect the suction device to the primary connection interface 130.

[0090] Between the crown-shaped section 188 and the tubular section 130, an outwardly opening air passage opening 195 is formed, and the first housing part 126 is adapted to be connected to an operable valve assembly 194. In this embodiment, the valve assembly 194 is formed as a two-part annular throttle flap, the two parts of which can be separably clipped together. The throttle flap can rotate relative to the first housing part 126 about the axis A. The throttle flap also has air passage openings which, depending on the rotational position, either coincide with or close the air passage openings of the first housing part 126. This means that the amount of primary intake air flowing through the primary turbine wheel 150 can be adjusted.

[0091] The second housing part 128 also has a crown-shaped section 196 with air passage openings for allowing the air conveyed by the secondary turbine wheel 152, i.e., the secondary intake airflow, to escape to the surrounding environment. The crown-shaped section 196 is formed similarly to the crown-shaped section 188 of the first housing part 126, for example, with regard to the mounting assembly, and therefore reference is made to the crown-shaped section 188 of the first housing part 126 for other features, such as the bayonet closure.

[0092] The second housing portion 128 further includes a secondary connection interface 136, which is formed as an annular protrusion. The secondary connection interface 136 is part of a bayonet closure, i.e., includes a plurality of groove assemblies. The secondary connection interface 136, particularly the annular protrusion, is configured to be coupled to a module, such as a collection vessel. For this purpose, a seal assembly may be provided between the secondary connection interface 136 and the module, thereby providing a fluid-tight connection. Alternatively or additionally, the secondary connection interface 136 may be formed in a tubular air inlet region 198 formed in the second housing portion 128 and present in this embodiment. The annular protrusion is supported by a plurality of ribs against the tubular air inlet region 198.

[0093] 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the adapter device 110 according to the present invention, in an assembled or mated state. Specifically, the first housing section 126 is attached to the barrier assembly 124 by a bayonet closure. For this purpose, an inner peripheral surface 192 contacts the first connecting surface 182, forming a substantially fluid-tight connection. The first housing section 126 surrounds the primary turbine wheel 150 but is radially spaced from it. An air passage opening 190 in the crown-shaped section 188 allows the primary intake airflow to enter and flow through the adapter device 110 or the first turbine assembly 116. Because the air passage opening 195 is closed by the valve assembly 194, the primary intake airflow can only enter through the air passage opening 190. This allows the primary intake airflow to act entirely on the first turbine assembly 112 to drive the primary turbine wheel 150. For simplicity reasons, no intake device is connected to the primary connection interface 130. However, arrows show how the primary intake airflow and the formed secondary intake airflow flow.

[0094] The second housing section 128 is attached to the barrier assembly 124 by means of an associated bayonet closure. For this purpose, the inner peripheral surface of the crown-shaped section 196 contacts the second connecting surface 184 of the barrier assembly 124. The second housing section 128 surrounds the secondary turbine wheel 152 but is spaced apart from it in the radial direction. Offset air passage openings in the crown-shaped section 196, which are therefore not visible in the cross-sectional view, allow the secondary intake airflow to enter the adapter device 110 or the second housing section 128 via the air inlet area 198 and flow through the second turbine assembly 118. For simplicity's sake, no modules are arranged at the secondary connecting interface 130. However, arrows indicate the flow of the secondary intake airflow.

[0095] That is, the primary intake airflow flows through the first turbine assembly 116 and acts on the primary turbine wheel 150 by applying a circumferentially directed driving force to the individual turbine blades 173 of the primary turbine wheel 150. Thus, the primary intake airflow drives the first turbine assembly 116. Since the primary turbine wheel 150 is non-rotatably connected to the transmission assembly 120, including the shaft 154, when assembled, the rotational drive of the first turbine wheel 150 drives the shaft 154, which in turn drives the secondary turbine wheel 152, which is also non-rotatably connected to the shaft 154 when assembled. The rotation of the secondary turbine wheel 152 acts on the air present in the second turbine assembly 118, forcing it radially outward from the adapter device 110 through the air passage openings and drawing air in through the air inlet region 198. Thus, a secondary suction air flow is formed, which can be used to suck in the suction material.

[0096] It can be seen that there are two intake air flows that are different from each other and structurally separated from each other. In this regard, the barrier assembly 124, among other things, ensures that the intake air flows are spatially separated from each other. During operation, the rotation of the primary turbine wheel 150 also serves to ensure that any remaining intake material, such as moisture or liquid, present is carried outward and does not enter the primary intake air flow.

[0097] It can further be seen that in operation, shaft 154 and turbine wheels 150, 152 rotate about a common axis A.

[0098] Various structural measures may be provided to prevent air, dirt, moisture and / or liquids, in particular water or the like, from entering the incoming primary intake air flow from the outgoing secondary intake air flow in the region of the crown-shaped sections 188, 196. For example, the air passage opening 190 and the air passage opening of the second housing section 128 may be circumferentially offset relative to one another, with an additional structural barrier between them, or the air passage opening 190 may be provided on only one side of the adapter device, while the air passage opening of the second housing section 128 may be located on the opposite side in this regard.

[0099] To allow the liquid to be removed, it can be provided that, as in the first exemplary embodiment, a tertiary connection interface is provided in place of the air passage opening in the second housing section 128. This tertiary connection interface can be configured, for example, as a connection for a hose.

[0100] For example, a region of the primary connection interface 130, such as its outer peripheral wall, may be adapted to couple with a grip assembly. Alternatively, a grip assembly may be formed on the outer peripheral wall. The grip assembly, including, for example, a hand grip, may be used to manipulate the adapter device 110 by an operator.

[0101] FIG. 5 illustrates a cleaning assembly 300 according to the present invention, which includes the adapter device 110 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a collection vessel assembly 200, a first gripping assembly 202, and a second gripping assembly 204.

[0102] The collection vessel assembly 200 includes a collection vessel 201 that is substantially tubular and has a substantially constant inner diameter. Other geometric shapes may be defined. The collection vessel 201 is thus hollow and extends along a collection vessel axis S, which, in the illustrated connected state, coincides with the axis A of the adapter device 110. Furthermore, the collection vessel is configured as a body of revolution. The ratio of the wall thickness of the collection vessel 201 to the radius of the collection vessel 201 is at least 1:10, preferably at least 1:20. The collection vessel assembly 200 is connected to the adapter device 110 via a secondary connection interface 136 of the adapter device 110, which in this embodiment is a bayonet closure. For this purpose, four pins are formed at the first end 206 of the collection vessel 201, extending radially outward from the peripheral wall surface 208 of the adapter device 110 and engaging in openings in the bayonet closure of the adapter device 110. In other words, the collection vessel 201 has a portion formed complementary to the portion of the bayonet closure on the adapter device 110. The collection vessel assembly 200 and the adapter device 110 can be decoupled from each other by rotating them relative to each other in a first rotational direction. Furthermore, the collection vessel assembly 200 and the adapter device 110 can be firmly coupled to each other by rotating them in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction. Instead of a bayonet closure, the secondary connection interface 136 can have another type of connection, such as a threaded or screw-based attachment or the like.

[0103] The secondary connection interface 136 provides a rigid, environmentally fluid-tight connection between the adapter device 110 and the collection canister assembly 200. That is, the movement of the adapter device 110 and the movement of the collection canister assembly 200 are coupled to each other, such that movement or tilting of the collection canister assembly 200 also results in a corresponding movement or tilting of the adapter device 110, and conversely, movement or tilting of the adapter device 110 also results in a corresponding movement or tilting of the collection canister assembly 200.

[0104] The peripheral wall surface 208 further has a number of annular notches 209. The notches 209 are formed as narrowings in the outer diameter of the collecting receptacle 201. The notches 209 extend with a predetermined width in the direction of the collecting receptacle axis S, with the ratio of the width to the spacing between adjacent notches 209 being at least 1:3, preferably at least 1:4. The peripheral wall surface 208 further has a first gripping assembly 202 and a second gripping assembly 204. The first gripping assembly 202 has two coupling rings 210 and a two-part gripping portion 212. The coupling rings 210 either completely surround the peripheral wall surface 208 or engage in one of the notches 209. The two-part gripping portion 212 is formed similarly to a parallelogram and has a gripping region 214 that is adapted to be grasped by an operator. The gripping area 214 forms the upper side of a parallelogram, which is oriented substantially parallel to the collection vessel axis S.

[0105] The second gripping assembly 204 also has a coupling ring 216 that completely surrounds and engages the peripheral wall surface 208. The second gripping assembly 204 further has an L-shaped retaining bracket 218 that has a gripping region 220. The longitudinal axis of the gripping region 220 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the collection receptacle axis S. The retaining bracket 218 is connected to the coupling ring 216 by a lockable pivot joint 222 that can be opened by slightly unscrewing the joint in order to pivot the retaining bracket 218 relative to the coupling ring 216 about a pivot axis A1 that is oriented perpendicular to the collection receptacle axis S.

[0106] A coupling ring 210 can be placed in each notch 209 as required. Instead of the notches 209, the peripheral wall surface 208 can be formed with a constant outer diameter, in which case the coupling ring 210 can be attached to the peripheral wall surface 208, preferably by a clamping action. This additionally increases variability for the operator, since in that case the operator is not limited to coupling in notches 209 that are uniformly spaced apart from one another.

[0107] The collection receptacle assembly 200 further includes a tool connection module 224 with a tool connection interface 226. The tool connection interface 226 is configured to be connected to a cleaning tool. The tool connection interface 226 includes a tube section 228 formed concentrically with the collection receptacle axis S and two connection lugs 229 arranged on either side of the tube section 228. The tool connection module 224 further includes a connection flange 230 having an annular configuration and surrounding and engaging a second end 232 of the collection receptacle 201 formed on the other side of the first end 206. The connection flange 230 further includes a bayonet closure or bayonet closure portion that cooperates with an associated bayonet closure portion formed on the collection receptacle assembly 200 to connect the tool connection module 224 to the collection receptacle assembly 200.

[0108] The collection vessel assembly 200 is formed transparent. This allows an operator to see the interior of the collection vessel assembly 200 and, for example, the inhaled material collected in the collection vessel assembly 200. Alternatively, a sight window may be provided, in which case only a portion of the collection vessel assembly 200 is transparent. For this purpose, the collection vessel assembly 200 or the sight window may comprise, for example, a transparent material, in particular a transparent polymer, such as acrylic glass, polycarbonate, or polystyrene. In addition to or as an alternative to a transparent configuration, a translucent material, in particular a translucent polymer, may also be provided.

[0109] A riser pipe 234 is disposed within the collection receptacle assembly 200. The riser pipe 234 is not clearly visible in the simplified drawings, but will be described in more detail below. The riser pipe 234 extends along the collection receptacle axis S from the second end 232 toward the first end 206. However, along the collection receptacle axis S, the riser pipe 234 is spaced apart from the first end 206. In other words, the length of the riser pipe 234 is approximately 60 to 90 percent, preferably 85 percent, of the length of the collection receptacle assembly 200. The riser pipe 234 is detachably connected to the tool connection module 224. To this end, the riser pipe 234 is provided with an external thread that is threaded into an internal thread formed in the tool connection module 224.

[0110] The riser pipe 234 is used to guide or suck the secondary intake air flow together with the intake material into the collection vessel 201. The end of the riser pipe 234 near the first end 206 is open so that the secondary intake air flow with the intake material can escape into the collection vessel 201. This configuration of the riser pipe 234 also serves to separate the intake material from the secondary intake air flow and increase its concentration in the collection vessel 201. Gravity pulls the intake material toward the second end 232 of the collection vessel 201, so that the intake material increases in concentration at the second end 232, while the lighter intake air flow can flow toward the first end 206 and thus into the adapter device 110.

[0111] To remove the suctioned material from the collection receptacle 201 or to empty the collection receptacle 201, the adapter device 110 can be disconnected from the collection receptacle assembly 200. For this purpose, in this embodiment, a bayonet closure (secondary connection interface) can be opened. Alternatively, the tool connection module 224 can also be disconnected from the collection receptacle 201. Furthermore, the collection receptacle 201 can include a discharge opening that can be opened or closed as needed.

[0112] 6 shows an exploded view of the collection vessel assembly 200. A seal assembly 236 is disposed at the first end 206 of the collection vessel 201. The seal assembly 236 is adapted to fluid-tightly couple the collection vessel 201 to the adapter device 110. In this embodiment, the seal assembly 236 is formed as an O-ring.

[0113] The collection vessel assembly 200 further includes a splash protection assembly 238. The splash protection assembly 238 is disposed at the end of the riser pipe 234 facing the first end 206 and is connectable to the riser pipe 234. The splash protection assembly 238 is configured to form a barrier for the inhaled materials drawn into the riser pipe 234 by the secondary inhaled air flow. This causes the inhaled materials to flow out of the riser pipe 234 in a radial direction rather than flowing along the collection vessel axis S toward the first end 206. This facilitates separating the inhaled materials from the secondary inhaled air flow and increasing their concentration in the collection vessel 201. In other words, the inhaled materials are prevented from flowing out of the riser pipe 234 in the direction of the adapter device 110. The splash protection assembly 238 includes a tubular section 240 and a disk-shaped section 242. The tubular section 240 is adapted to be connected to the riser pipe 234 by pushing the tubular section 240 onto the riser pipe 234. Other connection types are also conceivable, such as connections using interlocking threads. The disk-shaped section 242 is closed in the direction of the collection vessel axis S and prevents the passage of the suctioned material. The tubular section 240 includes radially arranged passage openings 244 that allow the suctioned material or the secondary suction air flow to pass or exit radially from the riser pipe 234.

[0114] Instead of the riser 234, a flexible suction hose may also be provided. Furthermore, the suction hose may be guided externally to the collecting vessel assembly 200 and may enter the collecting vessel 201 below the first end 206, possibly via a connection. This also makes it possible to introduce a secondary suction air flow into the collecting vessel 201 below the first end 206, preferably at a distance relative to the first end 206.

[0115] A seal assembly 246 in the form of an O-ring is disposed between the riser pipe 234 and the tool connection module 224 .

[0116] Electrical contacts 248 are formed on both connection lugs 229 of the tool connection module 224, forming an electrical contact assembly 249. This contact assembly is used to establish electrical contact with a cleaning tool when the cleaning tool is connected to the tool connection module 224. In this embodiment, electrical lines 250 are also formed on the collection container 201. These electrical lines may be arranged as insulated conductors inside or outside the collection container 201. Alternatively, the electrical lines 250 may be embedded in the material of the collection container 201 over at least a predetermined portion of the material. Further electrical contacts (not shown) may be formed on the second end 232. These electrical contacts are adapted to establish electrical contact between the electrical lines 250 and the tool connection module 224 and its electrical contacts 248. Similarly, electrical contacts (not shown) may be formed on the first end 206 and are adapted to form electrical contact between the adapter device 110 and the electrical lines 250. In this embodiment, each one of the electrical lines 250 is directly connected to each one of the electrical contacts 248.

[0117] 7 relates to a partially exploded view of the cleaning assembly 300. The collection receptacle assembly 200 is shown in an assembled state, i.e., the tool connection module 224 is firmly connected to the collection receptacle 201 by a bayonet closure. Furthermore, a riser 234 with a splash protection assembly 238 is arranged inside the collection receptacle 201 and firmly connected to the tool connection module 224. No cleaning tool is connected to the tool connection module 224. The gripping portions 212 and 214 are disconnected from the collection receptacle 201, in which case they can be connected to the respective notches 209 in the peripheral wall 208 of the collection receptacle 201.

[0118] In the partially exploded view shown in FIG. 7, the collecting vessel assemblies 200 are shown decoupled from the adapter device 110 and spaced apart from one another along the axis A or the collecting vessel axis S. An anti-ingestion device 252 is further arranged between the adapter device 110 and the collecting vessel assembly 200. The anti-ingestion device 252 is adapted for connection to the adapter device 110. More precisely, the anti-ingestion device 252 can be connected to the tubular air inlet area 198. For this purpose, a corresponding bayonet closure part is formed, which may alternatively provide for a connection using a threaded connection or the like. Alternatively, the anti-ingestion device 252 may be formed integrally with the adapter device 110. That is, in the coupled state and during operation of the adapter device 110 according to the present invention, a secondary ingestion air flow originates from the second turbine assembly 118 and is drawn from the collection receptacle assembly 200 via the tubular air inlet region 198 and thus via the anti-ingestion device 252. The anti-ingestion device 252 (not shown in detail) includes an internally positioned air guide assembly for supplying air from the collection receptacle assembly 200 to the adapter device 110. The external shape of the anti-ingestion device 252 is formed so that it is substantially fluid-tightly aligned with the tubular air inlet region 198, and in particular with the radially inner surface of the air inlet region 198, in the coupled state, so that the secondary ingestion air flow can only flow via the air guide assembly located internally of the anti-ingestion device 252. In the coupled state with the adapter device 110, the anti-ingestion device 252 extends along the axis A. When the adapter device 110 is further coupled to the collection can assembly 200, the anti-ingestion device 252 further extends along the collection can axis S. The anti-ingestion device 252 is further spaced from the inner surface of the collection can 201.

[0119] The anti-ingestion device 252 (not shown in detail) includes a closing body that, in its closed position, closes the air guide assembly so that at least liquid, and preferably neither liquid nor air, can reach the adapter device 110 from the collection receptacle assembly 200, and that, in its open position, opens the air guide assembly to suck air from the collection receptacle assembly 200. Furthermore, the anti-ingestion device 252 includes a force actuator for generating an actuating force by which the closing body can be pressed into the closed and / or open positions. The anti-ingestion device 252 is advantageously controllable, so that the open and closed positions can be acquired in conjunction with a control signal. The open position is particularly acquired when standard suction operation by the adapter device 110 is desired. The closed position is particularly preferably acquired when the level of suction material in the collection receptacle 201 exceeds a predetermined amount and / or the suction operation of the adapter device 110 is terminated. This prevents suction material from passing from the collection canister assembly 200 into the adapter device 110 during rotation, tilting, transport, storage, or the like. Preferably, the actuation force of the force actuator comprises a magnetic force.

[0120] The anti-ingestion device 252 is an optional component of the cleaning assembly 300. Thus, the cleaning assembly 300 may be provided without the anti-ingestion device 252.

[0121] FIG. 8 illustrates the cleaning assembly 300 shown in FIG. 5 coupled with an exemplary suction device 254. The suction device 254 is a general-purpose dry vacuum cleaner that can be powered by household current, and virtually any other type of suction device may be provided. The suction device 254 includes a body 256 that can be moved along a floor surface by rolling using two wheels 258 located at the lower rear end of the body 256 and one wheel (not shown) located at the front. All of the wheels 258 protrude at least partially from the underside of the body 256 to maintain the body 256 at a predetermined distance from the floor. The body 256 also includes a carrying grip 260 located at the upper rear end of the body 256 and formed in an arc shape.

[0122] A resilient suction hose 262 is connected to the main body 256. The suction hose 262 includes a handgrip portion 264 with a suction nozzle 266 that can be held by an operator. The handgrip portion 264 and the suction nozzle 266 are substantially rigid. The suction nozzle 266 is connected to the primary connection interface 130 of the adapter device 110 by a clamping action. For this purpose, the suction nozzle 266 is tubular, with an outer diameter that substantially corresponds to or slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the tubular section of the primary connection interface 130, so that the suction nozzle 266 is at least partially pressed into the tubular section of the primary connection interface 130.

[0123] The suction device 254 is adapted to generate a negative pressure during operation. To this end, the suction device 254 includes a turbine assembly (not shown) adapted to generate a negative pressure in the suction hose 262 and discharge the drawn-in air into the surrounding environment of the body 256. The negative pressure created in the suction hose 262 generates a primary drawn-in air flow that originates from the surrounding environment of the adapter device 110, passes through the air passage opening 190, and enters the first turbine assembly 116, thereby driving the primary turbine wheel 150. The suction airflow then flows further through the primary connection interface 130 and out of the adapter device 110, where it flows through the suction nozzle 266, the hand grip portion 264, and the suction hose 262 into the main body 256 of the suction device 254, and then from the main body 256 to the surrounding environment of the suction device 254 downstream of the turbine assembly.

[0124] That is, the cleaning assembly 300 can be driven by the suction device 254. During operation of the cleaning assembly 300, the body 256 can remain on the floor. The operator can freely move the cleaning assembly 300 and use it as needed for cleaning. The cleaning assembly 300 according to the present invention advantageously allows the suction device 254 configured as a dry vacuum cleaner to be used to drive the cleaning assembly 300. This ensures that suctioned materials, in particular liquids or moist air, cannot escape from the cleaning assembly 300, in particular from the secondary suction air flow, and thus cannot enter the primary suction air flow, i.e., into the suction device 254. For reasons of simplicity, the cutouts 209 are not shown.

[0125] 9 relates to an exemplary partial view of the adapter device 110 with various suction devices or hand grips that can be coupled to the primary connection interface 130. The suction devices or hand grips are shown spaced apart from the primary connection interface 130 as shown in an exploded view and are shown disconnected from the primary connection interface 130. First, the suction hose 262 known from FIG. 8 is shown, with a hand grip portion 264 and a suction nozzle 266. Also shown are an alternative suction device 268 in the form of a handheld vacuum cleaner, a third grip assembly 269, and a fourth grip assembly 271.

[0126] The suction device 268 includes a substantially cylindrical body 270 having a grip assembly 272 formed at its rear end for gripping by an operator. The grip assembly 272 includes an upper grip portion 274 that is contiguous with the body 270 and extends away from the body 270. In this embodiment, the upper grip portion 274 is rectangular-shaped; however, the upper grip portion 274 may also be circular or otherwise shaped. Preferably, the upper grip portion 274 is ergonomically shaped so that it can be comfortably gripped by an operator. Extending below the upper grip portion 274 is a lower grip portion 276 that is arcuate. One end of the lower grip portion 276 is integral with the rear end of the upper grip portion 274, and the other end is integral with the body 270. The lower grip portion 276 is substantially L-shaped and substantially rectangular, although the lower grip portion 276 may also be circular or otherwise shaped. Preferably, the lower grip portion 276 is ergonomically shaped so that it can be comfortably grasped by an operator.

[0127] The front end of the cylindrically formed body 270 is adapted to be connected to the primary connection interface 130 of the adapter device 110. For this purpose, a tubular section (not shown in detail) is formed inside the body 270 and is adapted to be connected to a tubular section provided at the primary connection interface 130 as well as to the suction nozzle 266 of the suction device 254. In addition, however, the body 270 has an operable coupling assembly 275. This coupling assembly 275 has operable rocker arms 276, 278. The coupling assembly 275 is adapted to cooperate with the connecting lugs 183, 185 of the first housing part 126 of the adapter device 110. In the coupled state, the rocker arms 276, 278 engage the respective connecting lugs 183, 185 from behind at one end, thus preventing the suction device 368 from being disconnected from the adapter device 110. However, the operator can manipulate the second ends of the rocker arms 276, 278 so that each rocker arm 276, 278 no longer engages the respective connecting lug 183, 185 from behind, thus releasing the suction device 268 to be decoupled from the adapter device 110. The function of such rocker arms will be explained in more detail further below. The rocker arms may be configured in one of several ways—as described below.

[0128] The main body 270 further has air passage openings 280 formed on its sides, which are adapted to guide the primary intake airflow formed by the primary connection interface 130 and the intake turbine disposed inside the intake device 268 to the surrounding environment.

[0129] The suction device 268 is configured to be detachably connected to a battery, which provides electrical energy for driving the suction turbine. For this purpose, a receptacle may be provided in the suction device 268, by means of which the battery is connected to the suction device 268. A switch 282 is arranged on the upper side of the suction device 268, by means of which the suction turbine is switched on and off depending on the position of the switch 282.

[0130] The suction device 268 is shown as an example to demonstrate that the adapter device 110 or cleaning assembly 300 can also be connected to and operated by a compact, battery-operated suction device.

[0131] The third gripping assembly 269 and the fourth gripping assembly 271 are also configured to be coupled to the primary connection interface 130. To this end, the third gripping assembly 269 and the fourth gripping assembly 271 each have a coupling ring 284 that is adapted to be coupled to the outer peripheral wall surface of the tubular section of the primary connection interface 130. Furthermore, the gripping assemblies 269 and 271 can be grasped by an operator. To this end, the third gripping assembly 269 has a gripping body 286 that includes a gripping portion shaped similar to a parallelogram. The peripheral wall surface of the coupling ring 284 is integrally formed with the gripping body 286. Furthermore, the third gripping assembly 269 includes a rocker arm 288 that is adapted to cooperate with either the first connecting lug 183 or the second connecting lug 185 of the first housing part 126 of the adapter device 110. The rocker arm 288 firstly allows the third gripping assembly 269 to be firmly but releasably coupled to the adapter device 110. At the same time, in the coupled state, rotation of the third gripping assembly 269 about the axis A is prevented, since the rocker arm 288 engages one of the two connecting lugs 183, 185 from behind in a rotation-locked manner.

[0132] With respect to the rocker arm, the rocker arm may refer to a so-called coupling mechanism that is adapted to couple and / or discouple the grip assembly to the adapter device and / or collection vessel assembly when operated.

[0133] The fourth grip assembly 271 includes a grip body 290 disposed below the coupling ring 284. The grip body 290 is configured similarly to a pistol grip and is adapted to be at least partially encircled and grasped by the operator's hand. The fourth grip assembly 271 also includes a rocker arm 292, the function of which is similar to the rocker arm described above. The coupling ring 284 is integrally formed with the grip body 290.

[0134] 10a illustrates an exploded view of the third grip assembly 269. The third grip assembly 269 includes a first housing portion 294 and a second housing portion 296. The first housing portion 294 includes one half of the grip body 286 and one half of the coupling ring 284. The second housing portion 296 includes the other half of the grip body 286 and the other half of the coupling ring 284. The inside of the second housing portion 296 includes four openings 298 into which thread inserts 302 can be inserted. When inserted, the thread inserts 302 are rigidly coupled to the second housing portion 296. The first housing portion 294 includes four through openings 304 that are adjusted to position and receive the screws 306. These screws 306 may be threadedly engaged with each thread insert 302 , thereby rigidly connecting the first housing portion 294 with the second housing portion 296 .

[0135] At least the second housing part 296 has a locating pin 308 that is adapted to position and pivotally support the rocker arm 288. To this end, the rocker arm 288 has a central opening 310 that is adapted to position and receive the locating pin 308. The rocker arm 288 further has a first leg 312 and a second leg 314. Both legs 312, 314 are adapted to contact the second housing part 296 over at least a predetermined section when attached to the second housing part 296. Both legs 312, 314 are slightly arcuate. This allows an operator to manipulate the end of the first leg 312 that protrudes from the second housing part 296 when attached to the second housing part 296, thereby elastically deforming and tensioning at least the second leg 314. This causes a lug 311 formed in the region of the passage opening 310 between the legs 312, 314 to be displaced about the longitudinal axis K of the locating pin 308. In that case, when the third gripping assembly 269 is coupled to the adapter device 110, the lug 311 no longer engages from behind with the first connecting lug 183 or the second connecting lug 185 of the first housing part 126 of the adapter device 110, so that the third gripping assembly 269 can be decoupled from the adapter device 110. This mechanism enables the third gripping assembly 269 to be firmly but detachably coupleable with the primary connection interface 130 or the first housing part 126 of the adapter device 110.

[0136] To assemble the third grip assembly 269, first, the thread insert 302 and the rocker arm 288 are inserted into the second housing portion 296. The first housing portion 294 is then mated with the second housing portion 296 so that the axis of the through opening 304 is aligned with the axis of the opening 298. The screw 306 is then guided through the through opening 304 and threadedly engaged with the thread insert 302.

[0137] 10b illustrates an exploded view of the fourth grip assembly 271. The fourth grip assembly 271 includes a first housing portion 316 and a second housing portion 318. The first housing portion 316 includes one half of the grip body 290 and one half of the coupling ring 284. The second housing portion 318 includes the other half of the grip body 290 and the other half of the coupling ring 284. Three locating openings 320 are formed inside the second housing portion 318 and are adapted to position and receive respective thread inserts 322 as previously described. The first housing portion 316 includes three through openings 324 and are adapted to position and receive respective screws 326 therein.

[0138] Both housing portions 316, 318 have respective locating openings 328 that are adjusted to align and receive respective ends of a guide pin 330 formed on the rocker arm 292. Only the locating opening 328 formed in the second housing portion 318 is visible in this drawing. Both housing portions 316, 318 have respective openings 332. When the rocker arm 292 is inserted into the locating openings 328, the rocker arm 292 is pivotally supported about the axis K of the guide pin 330. Furthermore, in this case, one end of the first leg 334 protrudes through the opening 332 and can be manipulated by an operator. A lug 338 is formed at the end of the second leg 336 of the rocker arm 292. This lug 338 is adapted to engage from behind one of the connecting lugs 183, 185 to firmly but releasably connect the fourth gripping assembly 271 to the adapter device 110, as previously described.

[0139] The first leg 334 further includes a projection 340 that is adapted to support a spring mechanism 342 that, when the fourth gripping assembly 271 is installed, presses against the first leg 334 in a first rotational direction about the axis K. When the fourth gripping assembly 271 is attached to the adapter device 110, the lug 338 presses against one of the connecting lugs 183, 185 from behind. To separate the lug 338 from each connecting lug 183, 185, an operator grasps the end of the first leg 334 that protrudes from both housing sections 316, 318 and presses this end in a second rotational direction about the axis K that is opposite to the first rotational direction. At this time, the operator must apply force against the actuating force of the spring mechanism 342.

[0140] To assemble the fourth grip assembly 271, first, the thread insert 322 is inserted into the locating opening 320 provided in the second housing portion 318. Further, the spring mechanism 342 is inserted into the locating opening 344 formed in at least one of the housing portions 316, 318. In this case, the spring mechanism 342 acts on the protrusion 340 and is inserted into the second housing portion 318 together with the rocker arm 292. Next, the first housing portion 316 is mated with the second housing portion 318 so that the axis of the pass-through opening 324 is aligned with the axis of the opening 328. Next, the screw 326 is guided through the pass-through opening 324 and threadedly engaged with the thread insert 322.

[0141] 11 relates to a view of the cleaning assembly 300 with exemplary cleaning tools 346, 348, and 350. The cleaning tools 346, 348, and 350 are each adapted to be attached to the tool connection interface 226. The cleaning assembly 300 is shown assembled and without a suction device coupled to the cleaning assembly 300.

[0142] The first cleaning tool 346 includes a floor unit 352 having a first brush 354 and a second brush 356 arranged thereon, the first brush 354 being adapted to rotate about a first brush axis B1, and the second brush 356 being adapted to rotate about a first brush axis B2. The brush axes B1, B2 are spaced apart from one another. The brushes 354, 356 are adapted to contact the floor surface to be cleaned during operation. The floor unit 352 further includes an arc-shaped suction strip assembly 356 having a suction lip 359 arranged thereon. The suction lip 359 is adapted to contact the floor surface and draw and combine material, particularly liquid, from the floor surface. The first cleaning tool 346 further comprises a connection module 358, which is adapted to be connected to the tool connection module 224. For this purpose, the connection module 358 comprises a tubular section 360, which is adapted to be connected to the tube portion 228. More precisely, the tubular section 360 is pushed onto the tube portion 228. The tubular section 360 further comprises a second end, to which a suction hose 362 is connected. The suction hose 362 connects the tubular section 360 to the suction strip assembly 356, so that during operation, a secondary suction air flow originates from the suction strip assembly 356, passes through the suction hose 362 and the tubular section, and enters the tube portion 228 of the tool connection interface 226, thereby sucking in the suction material. For this purpose, the suction strip assembly 356 is formed with a suction opening, preferably near the floor surface, through which the secondary suction air flow can flow into the suction hose 362 together with the suction material.

[0143] The connection module 358 is connected to the floor unit 352 via a joint assembly 364. The joint assembly 364 has a first pivot axis SA1 and a second pivot axis SA2, which are oriented perpendicular to each other and spaced apart from each other. The joint assembly 364 allows the connection module 358 and, for example, the container assembly 200 connected to the connection module 358 to be pivotably disposed relative to the floor unit 352. This allows for easy handling of the cleaning assembly 300.

[0144] The second cleaning tool 348 also has a connection module 358 as described above, except that the tubular section 360 is provided with a take-up head 366 instead of a suction hose. The take-up head 366 is formed integrally with the tubular section 360 or the connection module 358. The take-up head 366 resembles the shape of a small, substantially equilateral triangle, the lower side of which forms a suction lip 368 with an suction opening 370. The take-up head 366 is hollow or has at least one large air flow passage or multiple small air flow passages that open into the suction opening 370 so that a secondary suction air flow can originate from the suction lip 368, enter the suction opening, and flow through the take-up head 366 to the tubular section 360. The suction lip 368 can be formed from a rubber-like material. The suction lip 368 is adapted to at least partially contact the floor surface during operation, thereby providing suction material to the suction opening 370 .

[0145] The third cleaning tool 350 includes a floor unit 372, on which a first cleaning roller 374 and a second cleaning roller 376 are disposed. The first cleaning roller 374 has a first roller axis W1, about which the first cleaning roller 374 can be rotated. The second cleaning roller 346 has a second roller axis W2, about which the second cleaning roller 374 can be rotated. The roller axes W1 and W2 are parallel to and spaced apart from each other. When the third cleaning tool 350 is placed on a floor surface, the roller axes W1 and W2 are oriented substantially parallel to the floor surface. The cleaning rollers 374 and 376 may include brushes and / or fins. The cleaning rollers 374 and 376 contact the floor surface during operation. The third cleaning tool 350 also includes a connection module 358 as previously described. In this case, the connection module 358 has a tubular section adapted to be connected to the pipe portion 228. More precisely, a tubular section 360 is pushed onto the pipe portion 228. The connection module 358 is further connected to the floor unit 372 by a swivel joint 378. The swivel joint 378 has a pivot axis SA3 that is parallel to and spaced apart from the roller axes W1 and W2. The swivel joint 378 allows the connection module 358 to be pivoted relative to the floor unit 372 about the pivot axis SA3. A housing 380 is formed in the connection module 358, which surrounds the tubular section 360. The tubular section 360 is connected to a suction hose 382 which connects the connection module 358 with the floor unit 372 via a swivel joint 378. The suction hose 382 is adapted to direct a secondary intake airflow from the floor unit 372 to the tubular section 360.The floor unit 372 is provided with a motorized drive unit, which is adjusted to rotate the cleaning rollers 374, 376 around the roller axes W1, W2. For this purpose, the motorized drive unit is connected to the cleaning rollers 374, 376 via a belt assembly, which in this embodiment is formed outside the housing of the floor unit 350. Of course, the belt assembly may also be formed inside the housing. Furthermore, instead of a belt assembly, another mechanical coupling may be provided.

[0146] 12a and 12b show detailed views of the connection module 358 of the first cleaning tool 346, and are used to illustrate, among other things, the mechanisms used to enable the connection module 358 to be coupled to the tool connection interface 226. As previously described, the connection module 358 includes a tubular section 360. Furthermore, the connection module 358 includes a first positioning opening 384 and a second positioning opening 386. The positioning openings 384, 386 are formed on opposite sides of the tubular section 360, forming a rectangular parallelepiped cutout in the connection module 358. The connection module 358 also includes a closure bracket 388, which is formed as a separate component from the connection module 358 but is coupled thereto. Each end of the closure bracket 388 includes a respective hook 390, which extends into the positioning openings 384, 386 without manipulation of the closure bracket 388. "Without operation" means that the closure bracket 388 is preloaded in a first direction R1 by a spring assembly / mechanism (not shown in detail), so that the hooks 390 protrude into the positioning openings 384, 386, but can be moved in the opposite direction to the direction R1 against the spring force of the spring assembly relative to the rest of the connection module 358. To do this, the operator presses the closure bracket 388 in the opposite direction to the direction R1, causing the closure bracket 388 to move in the opposite direction to the direction R1. This movement causes the hooks 390 to exit the positioning openings 384, 386 in the opposite direction to the direction R1, thereby opening these positioning openings 384, 386. Both positioning openings 384, 386 are adjusted to position and receive the respective connection lugs 229 formed on the tool connection interface 226. In this case, in the coupled state, the hooks 390 engage through the respective passage openings 410 provided in each connection lug 229. The hook 390 thereby creates a locking action that prevents the connection module 358 from being disconnected from the tool connection interface 226 without manipulation of the closure bracket 388 .

[0147] The connection module 358 has an upper housing portion 392 and a lower housing portion 394, with through-holes 396 formed in the lower housing portion 394 positioned to receive screws (not shown). These screws are adapted to thread into threaded areas 398 formed in the upper housing portion 392 and to rigidly couple the upper and lower housing portions 392, 394 together. When the upper housing portion 392 is coupled to the lower housing portion 394, the closure bracket 388 is clamped between the two housing portions against the spring force of the spring mechanism. Therefore, the closure bracket 388 cannot be removed from the rest of the connection module 358 without separating the two housing portions 392, 394 from each other.

[0148] The tubular section 360 has a guide protrusion 400 that extends along the longitudinal axis LA1 of the tubular section 360 and along the inner surface of the tubular section 360. The guide protrusion 400 is adapted to engage within a guide groove formed on the outer side of the tube portion 228.

[0149] The first positioning opening 384 has a first electrical contact plate 402, and the second positioning opening 386 has a second electrical contact plate 404. The contact plates 402, 404 are provided to contact one of the electrical contacts 248 and form electrical contacts with the electrical contacts 248 when coupled to the tool connection interface 226. The electrical contact plates 402 are coupled to respective electrical lines 406. The electrical lines 406 are coupled to at least one motorized drive device, for example, so that an electric current is supplied to the electrical lines. The motorized drive device may be provided to rotate the cleaning roller 374 or the brush.

[0150] In the connection module 358 of the second cleaning tool 348, the electrical contact plates 402, 404 can be dispensed with, since in this case the second cleaning tool 348 does not have a drivable tool.

[0151] The connection module 358 of the third cleaning tool 350 is configured substantially similarly to the first cleaning tool 346 on the side facing the tool connection interface 226, but additionally comprises the already-described housing 380. The housing 380 may form a closure bracket 388. Alternatively, the connection module 358 of the third cleaning tool 350 may comprise only the tubular section 360 and the housing 380 on the side facing the tool connection interface 226. In this case, the tubular section 360 is pressed onto the tube section 228 to achieve a clamping effect with this tube section 228.

[0152] 13 relates to a detailed view of the tool connection module 224 according to one embodiment. The tool connection module 224 is coupled to the collection container 201 and is rigidly attached thereto. The tube portion 228 is formed with the previously described guide groove 408, which extends along the axis A on the outer peripheral wall surface of the tube portion 228. The guide groove 228 is adapted to position and receive the guide protrusion 400.

[0153] The tool connection module 224 is further formed with two connecting lugs 229 which protrude from the rear side of the tool connection module 224 in the direction of the axis A. The tool connection module 224 is formed in the shape of a plate and has respective passage openings 410 which are used to position and receive the hooks 390 as explained above.

[0154] Further electrical contacts 248 are formed in the through-passage openings 410. The electrical contacts 248 are further formed at least partially below the connecting lugs 229. Furthermore, the electrical contacts 248 have respective positioning projections 412 onto which respective plug assemblies 414, in the present embodiment in the form of flat plug sleeves, are pressed. Each plug assembly 414 is electrically conductively connected to a respective electrical line 250. The electrical lines 250 are attached to the rear side of the tool connection module 224 in the region of the respective positioning projections 412 by respective line holders 416. For this purpose, the line holders 416 have respective clamping jaws that clamp the respective lines 250. The electrical lines 250 are preferably designed to supply a voltage of 12 V, 24 V, or 48 V.

[0155] The electrical lines 250 and associated structural features are optional, whereas additional electrical lines may be provided to form electrical contact with or supply current to the cleaning tool.

[0156] The collection vessel assembly 200 or the adapter device 110 may be formed with a current supply interface for making electrical contact with a current source, preferably coupled to the electrical line 250. The current supply interface may include a holder for receiving the current supply, which may be configured to receive a battery.

[0157] Features described in relation to one particular embodiment may also be defined separately in the cleaning assembly, in particular in the adapter device. The same applies to features described in relation to the cleaning assembly. These features may also be defined in the adapter device, and vice versa.

Claims

1. A cleaning assembly (300) for sucking up a substance by a suction device (254; 268), - Adapter device (10; 110), A first turbine assembly (12; 112) that can be driven by the primary intake airflow of the aforementioned suction device (254; 268), A second turbine assembly (18; 118) that is driveable to generate a secondary intake airflow for drawing in the intake material, A transmission assembly (20; 120) connected to the first turbine assembly (12; 112) and the second turbine assembly (18; 118), Includes, The drive of the first turbine assembly (12; 112) by the primary intake airflow can be used via the transmission assembly (20; 120) to drive the second turbine assembly (18; 118) to generate the secondary intake airflow, and the adapter device (10; 110) - At least one collection container assembly (41) adjusted to separate and contain the inhaled material drawn in by the secondary intake airflow, A cleaning assembly (300) including [the part].

2. The cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 1, wherein the collection container assembly (41) is rigidly connected to or formed to be connectable to the adapter device (10; 110).

3. The cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the collection container assembly (41) is substantially formed in a tubular shape.

4. The cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 1, wherein the collection container assembly (41) includes a transparent material over at least a predetermined section.

5. The cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 1, wherein the collection container assembly (41) includes at least one viewing window.

6. The cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 1, wherein the collection container assembly (41) and / or the adapter device (10; 110) are formed as a support structure.

7. The cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 1, wherein the collection container assembly (41) and / or the adapter device (10; 110) are formed to be position-variable, and in particular to be tiltable.

8. Furthermore, the cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 1, comprising at least one grip assembly (202; 204; 269; 271), the grip assembly (202; 204; 269; 271) being adjusted to be gripped by an operator and being firmly connected to or formed to connect to the adapter device (10; 110) and / or the collection container assembly (41).

9. The cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 8, wherein the grip assemblies (202; 204; 269; 271) have an operable coupling mechanism for connection, the coupling mechanism being adjusted to connect and / or disconnect the grip assemblies (202; 204; 269; 271) to the adapter devices (10; 110) and / or the collection container assembly (41) when operated.

10. The cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 1, further comprising a tool connection interface (226) for connection with cleaning tools (346; 348; 350), wherein the secondary suction airflow can be led out from the cleaning tools (346; 348; 350) by the tool connection interface (226).

11. The cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 10, wherein the tool connection interface (226) includes an electrical contact assembly (249) which is configured to form an electrical contact with the cleaning tools (346; 348; 350).

12. The cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the tool connection interface (226) is adjusted to substantially rigidly connect the cleaning tools (346; 348; 350).

13. Furthermore, the cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 1 includes at least one current supply interface for forming electrical contact with a current source, in particular a battery.

14. Furthermore, the cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 1 includes a primary connection interface (130) for connection to the suction device (254; 268), through which the primary suction airflow can be led out from the adapter device (10; 110) to drive the first turbine assembly (12; 112).

15. The cleaning assembly (300) according to claim 14, wherein the primary connection interface (130) is adjusted to substantially rigidly connect the suction device (254; 268) to the adapter device (10; 110).

Images