Ventilation system cleaning equipment

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus (100) for cleaning hollow spaces of a vehicle ventilation system with a cleaning agent, in particular, the apparatus (100) comprising a receiving part (101) for receiving a cleaning agent container (600) and a cleaning part (102), the cleaning part (102) forming a carrier frame (103) configured to allow a pocket-shaped cleaning cloth (700) to be placed over the cleaning part (102) so as to form an internal volume, the cleaning part (102) being connected to the receiving part (101) so that cleaning agent from the cleaning agent container (600) securable in the receiving part (101) can flow from the receiving part (101) into the internal volume.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for cleaning hollow spaces, in particular of ventilation systems of vehicles, with a cleaning agent, and to a method for manufacturing the device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, many hollow spaces in vehicle ventilation systems need to be cleaned at regular intervals, since dirt often accumulates, which reduces the air quality and, for example, produces unpleasant odors. For example, when replacing an interior air filter, such as a pollen filter, a perimeter cleaning must be carried out before installing a new filter in the ventilation system housing or so-called air filter box. From a technical perspective, the cleaning operation when replacing an interior air filter is a fundamental contribution to the overall regular hygiene of the ventilation system in a vehicle.

[0003] The cleaning required around the air filter in the vehicle cabin is usually carried out by chemical and mechanical cleaning, using chemical cleaning solutions to break down and bind organic matter, and mechanically removing the dirt, for example with a cloth.

[0004] This multi-stage cleaning process often leads to long and complicated cleaning cycles because in the first stage, chemical cleaning solutions are applied directly to the filter box by a spray probe, followed by mechanical cleaning by hand wiping with a cloth.

[0005] With the optimization of air filter media, the height of the air filter housing in the vehicle cabin has become significantly lower. This means that it is difficult to wipe off dirt from the air filter box in the vehicle cabin after adding chemical cleaning solutions. The height of the opening and hollow space volume of the air filter box are not sufficient for subsequent mechanical cleaning using hands and cloths. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present invention aims to simplify the cleaning process, in particular of hollow spaces in vehicles. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] This problem is solved by a device for cleaning hollow spaces and a method for manufacturing the device according to the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0008] In a first aspect of the invention, an apparatus for cleaning hollow spaces of a vehicle's ventilation system (e.g., an interior air filter system or an air filter box of a ventilation system) with a cleaning agent is described. The apparatus has a receiving part for receiving a cleaning agent container and a cleaning part, the cleaning part forming a carrier frame on which a pocket-shaped cleaning cloth can be placed so that an internal volume can be formed (within the placed cleaning cloth). The cleaning part is connected to the receiving part so that cleaning agent from a cleaning agent container that can be fixed to the receiving part can flow from the receiving part into the internal volume.

[0009] In another aspect, a method for manufacturing an apparatus for cleaning hollow spaces, particularly those of a vehicle ventilation system, with a cleaning agent is described. The method includes providing a receiving part for receiving a cleaning agent container and a cleaning part, the cleaning part forming a carrier frame configured to allow a pocket-shaped cleaning cloth to be placed over the cleaning part so as to form an internal volume. The method further includes connecting the cleaning part to the receiving part so that cleaning agent from a cleaning agent container securable to the receiving part can flow from the receiving part into the internal volume.

[0010] For efficient ventilation and air conditioning of the vehicle, the ventilation system has ventilation ducts with multiple housings or hollow spaces through which a desired amount of air can be conducted to predetermined areas of the vehicle. One or more locations in the ventilation system are provided with (pollen) air filters, which must be replaced at predetermined maintenance intervals. The hollow spaces of the ventilation system can be accessed through smaller openings, through which chemical cleaning agents can be introduced or mechanical cleaning elements, such as cleaning cloths, can be inserted.

[0011] The device according to the invention has a cleaning section formed with a carrier frame on which a pocket-shaped cleaning cloth can be placed, so that the carrier frame holds the cleaning cloth securely and can be placed together with the carrier frame into a hollow space, for example of a ventilation system, for carrying out machine cleaning.

[0012] In particular, the support frame is configured to tension the pocket-shaped cleaning fabric so that an internal volume can be formed. For example, the support frame separates the opposing front and rear planar cleaning sections of the cleaning fabric. The width of the support frame, on which the cleaning fabric is tensioned, is preferably less than 2 cm, and more preferably less than 1 cm, so that the support frame, along with the cleaning fabric, can be inserted even into small ventilation openings or openings in the filter box that would be too narrow for a user's hand to fit through. The support frame can be, for example, jointed to the receptacle. Furthermore, the support frame can be configured to be elastically deformable so as to elastically adapt to the specific shape of the hollow space of the ventilation system.

[0013] The cleaning cloth may be made of felt, fiber, or woven material, for example. The cleaning cloth may be made of a microfiber cloth. For example, the cleaning cloth may be made of an organic material, such as cotton. Furthermore, the cleaning cloth may be made of a plastic-like woven fabric.

[0014] The device further comprises a receptacle, in which a cleaning agent container can be interchangeably received and fixed in a predetermined position. In particular, the cleaning agent container contains a cleaning liquid that can be released, for example, in the form of a spray, an aerosol, or a foam. The receptacle can simultaneously form a grip for the device. A user can grasp the receptacle and handle the device, for example, by introducing the receptacle into the hollow space to be cleaned.

[0015] The receiving section is connected to the cleaning section so that the cleaning agent can flow from the cleaning agent container into the interior volume of the cleaning section, thereby wetting and moistening the cleaning cloth. The cleaning agent container can hold the cleaning agent at a pressure of, for example, 0.5 to 12 bar. The cleaning agent container further has an outlet small tube or riser tube having a diameter of 0.5 mm to 10 mm. The support frame tensions the cleaning cloth, forming a pocket-like interior volume within the cleaning cloth, allowing the cleaning agent to reach a wide area of ​​the inner surface of the cleaning cloth and penetrate the entire surface of the cleaning cloth homogeneously and evenly.

[0016] In this way, by placing the cleaning unit together with the cleaning cloth saturated with the cleaning agent into the hollow space to be cleaned, chemical cleaning and mechanical cleaning can be performed simultaneously. The cleaning cloth automatically soaks up the cleaning agent, allowing the cleaning agent to be applied to the surface to be cleaned within the hollow space. At the same time, the cleaning cloth is fixed by the support frame, allowing the user to perform mechanical cleaning by sliding the cleaning unit with the cleaning cloth over the surface. In this case, it is sufficient to place only the cleaning unit, not the user's hands, into the hollow space to be cleaned. Therefore, a two-step cleaning process, in which the cleaning agent is first applied and then mechanical cleaning with the cleaning cloth, is unnecessary. The device of the present invention allows for the simultaneous chemical cleaning and mechanical cleaning steps, thereby enabling efficient cleaning of hollow spaces in ventilation systems. The device of the present invention allows for easy handling and protects against injuries from sharp corners in the air filter box or ventilation system when cleaning by hand.

[0017] In another exemplary embodiment, the receiver has a clamping element configured to clamp and hold the detergent container. As an example, the detergent container may have a flange or a collar that can be inserted into the receiver in the insertion direction. The clamping element clamps the detergent container in a predetermined holding position of the detergent container, for example by clamping against a flange or a surface of the detergent container. The clamping force is selected so that the detergent container does not fall out of the receiver due to the weight of the detergent container, and a release force must be applied by the user in the direction opposite to the insertion direction.

[0018] After the cleaning cloth is pulled onto the carrier frame, the detergent container can be inserted into the grip or receptacle. The contents of the detergent container (e.g., a spray can) are released by pressing it, wetting the cleaning cloth from the inside. The detergent container is designed so that the detergent to be dispensed, under pressure, flows evenly from the detergent container into the pocket-like cleaning cloth's internal volume, even to the edge areas, so that the detergent is evenly absorbed over the entire inner surface of the cleaning cloth. The hollow space can be chemically and mechanically cleaned accordingly. A new pollen filter can then be inserted into the clean environment.

[0019] In another exemplary embodiment, the clamping element comprises a resilient material. As an example, the clamping element may be formed from a rubber-like material, such as hard rubber.

[0020] In another exemplary embodiment, a spring element is provided in the receiver, which can press the clamping element against the detergent container, and which can generate the required clamping force by pressing the clamping element towards the detergent container instead of or in addition to the restoring force of the clamping element, e.g., by making it from an elastic material.

[0021] In another exemplary embodiment, the receiver comprises a latch element which can be pressed into a recess in the detergent container by, for example, a spring element, for example, the latch element can be slidably arranged in the receiver and preloaded in the direction of the detergent container by a spring force.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment, a flow channel is formed between the receiving part and the cleaning part, and is configured so that the outlet element of the cleaning agent container protrudes into the flow channel when the cleaning agent container is received in the receiving part. The flow channel has a diameter of, for example, between 0.5 mm (millimeters) and 10 mm. The cleaning agent container can have, for example, an outlet valve with a corresponding outlet small tube. The flow channel in the receiving part can be arranged so that the outlet small tube protrudes into the flow channel when the cleaning agent container is fixed at a predetermined position in the receiving part. To facilitate reception in the flow channel, the opening of the flow channel to the receiving part can be formed in a funnel shape, which ensures that the outlet small tube is received centered in the flow channel when the cleaning agent container is inserted into the receiving part. A sealing element, for example a rubber sealing ring, can be provided at the opening of the flow channel so that the receiving small tube of the cleaning agent container is sealed by the wall of the flow channel.

[0023] In another exemplary embodiment, the carrier frame has at least two spaced apart carrier bars, the carrier bars extending from the receptacle spaced apart along a longitudinal direction and spaced apart along a transverse direction extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The carrier bars are configured to allow cleaning cloths to be placed over the carrier bars, forming an internal volume between the carrier bars. The longitudinal direction defines the direction of extension of the carrier bars from the receptacle toward the free ends of the opposing carrier bars. The transverse direction is defined perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and defines the spacing of the carrier bars relative to each other along the transverse direction. The carrier bars can extend parallel from the receptacle, thereby having the same transverse spacing at both the receptacle and their respective free ends. Alternatively, the carrier bars can extend V-shaped from the receptacle, such that the transverse spacing between the carrier bars at the receptacle is smaller than the spacing at the free ends of the carrier bars. Alternatively, the carrier bars may extend from the receiver so that the lateral spacing between the carrier bars at the receiver is greater than the spacing at the free ends of the carrier bars.

[0024] The carrier bars may have, for example, a circular or rectangular cross section, in particular the carrier bars may have a rectangular cross section and may be thin-walled or band-like.

[0025] In another exemplary embodiment, the carrier bar has upper and lower side edges along a width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions. The upper and lower side edges are configured so that the applied cleaning cloth rests at least partially on the upper and lower side edges to form an internal volume. The width direction, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions, determines the width of the carrier bar. The carrier bar may have, for example, a rectangular cross section, and the width defines the distance between the upper and lower side edges in the width direction. If the cross section is rectangular, the thickness of the carrier bar is particularly defined along the transverse direction, and the length of the carrier bar is particularly defined along the longitudinal direction. In particular, the carrier bar is band-shaped, i.e., has a rectangular cross section, and its width is at least 5 times, at least 10 times, or particularly 20 times or more greater than its thickness.

[0026] The spacing between the upper and lower side edges defines the spacing between the upper and lower surfaces of the cleaning cloth when the corresponding surfaces of the cleaning cloth are placed on it. The larger the spacing between the upper and lower side edges, the larger the spacing between the upper and lower surfaces of the cleaning cloth and the larger the internal surface area.

[0027] In another exemplary embodiment, at least one upper connecting bridge is provided between the upper side edges of the carrier bars, on which a region of the cleaning cloth can rest. The connecting bridge thus prevents the cleaning cloth from dropping between the carrier bars toward the internal volume and thereby interfering with the distribution of the cleaning agent. At the same time, the connecting bridge serves to secure or stiffen the carrier bars. The connecting bridge can be made of the same material as the carrier bars and can be formed monolithically or integrally with the carrier bars.

[0028] In another exemplary embodiment, at least one lower connecting bridge is provided between the lower side ends of the carrier bars, on which a region of the cleaning cloth can be placed. The lower connecting bridge can be formed corresponding to the upper connecting bridge. A region of the internal volume is located between the upper and lower connecting bridges. Since the cleaning cloth is placed on the connecting bridge, the upper and lower connecting bridges prevent the cleaning cloth from folding between the carrier bars and interrupting the internal volume.

[0029] Alternatively, the corresponding connecting bridge can be fixed in the center, i.e., between the upper and lower side ends of the carrier bar, and can have, for example, small holes or passages for forming an internal volume in its extension to another carrier bar in the lateral direction, so that the internal volume in the longitudinal direction is not interrupted.

[0030] In another exemplary embodiment, the lower and upper connecting bridges extend parallel to each other between the carrier bars. Alternatively, the connecting bridges can be angled relative to each other in extension. Thus, the connecting bridges can be angled relative to each other by 30 to 60 degrees, in particular 45 degrees.

[0031] In another exemplary embodiment, the lower connecting bridge and the upper connecting bridge are arranged one above the other in the width direction, in other words, the connecting bridges overlap radially in the width direction.

[0032] In another exemplary embodiment, the lower connecting bridges and the upper connecting bridges are offset from each other in the direction of extension of the carrier bar (i.e., the longitudinal direction). In other words, the upper continuous bridges are spaced apart from adjacent lower continuous bridges in the longitudinal direction. This ensures that the longitudinal internal volume is formed over the entire length with fewer connections, and reduces the risk of the upper surface of the cleaning cloth contacting the lower surface of the cleaning cloth, thereby interrupting the internal volume.

[0033] In another exemplary embodiment, at least the upper connecting bridges are arranged on the upper side ends of the carrier bar, so that the resting areas of the upper connecting bridges for the cleaning cloths are spaced apart in the width direction from the upper side ends. Additionally or alternatively, at least the lower connecting bridges are arranged on the lower side ends of the carrier bar, so that the resting areas of the lower connecting bridges for the cleaning cloths are spaced apart in the width direction from the lower side ends. In other words, the upper cloth surface contacts the upper surfaces of the upper connecting bridges on the carrier bar and, between two adjacent upper connecting bridges, the surfaces of the corresponding upper side ends of the carrier bar. This results in a zigzag resting surface of the upper cloth surface along the carrier bar. The same is true for the lower cloth surface along the lower side ends of the carrier bar. This increases the friction of the cleaning cloths on the carrier bar, for example, and prevents the cleaning cloths from unintentionally detaching from the carrier frame.

[0034] In another exemplary embodiment, the carrier frame has fixed bridges connecting the free ends of the carrier bars, so that the carrier bars have a rigid connection at each of their ends, thereby making it possible to obtain a robust construction.

[0035] In another exemplary embodiment of the method, the receiving part and the cleaning part are manufactured integrally by injection molding, so that the receiving part and the cleaning part are formed as one piece and in one piece.

[0036] Alternatively, the receiving part and the cleaning part can be manufactured separately and connected by a releasable (eg threaded connection) or fixed connection (eg adhesive connection).

[0037] In another exemplary embodiment, the cleaning part, in particular the carrier frame, is arranged in a jointed manner relative to the receiving part so that the cleaning part can be displaced relative to the receiving part. This creates an angle between the receiving part and the cleaning part, which can facilitate handling, especially when cleaning hollow spaces that are difficult to access during cleaning. A joint can be provided between the receiving part and the cleaning part accordingly. The joint allows the cleaning part to pivot around a rotation axis relative to the receiving part, like a hinge. Furthermore, a joint with two or more pivot axes (e.g., a ball joint) can also be provided.

[0038] Additionally or alternatively, the cleaning part, in particular the carrier frame, can have elastic regions so that the cleaning part can be deformed relative to the receiving part, which also makes it possible to form an angle between the receiving part and the cleaning part.

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, the carrier frame is formed with at least one hook element. The hook element is configured to hook onto the material of the cleaning cloth or the receiving opening to prevent slippage. The hook element forms a so-called protrusion extending from the surface of the carrier frame, particularly from the carrier frame toward the cleaning cloth. This allows the hook element to penetrate or pierce the cleaning cloth, forming a complementary engagement and preventing the cleaning cloth from slipping relative to the carrier frame. Furthermore, the hook element may be configured with a sharp point at its free end to penetrate into the cleaning cloth for hooking. Alternatively, the cleaning cloth may have a receiving hole through which the hook element can be gripped. In this case, the free end of the hook element may be blunt to prevent injury.

[0040] The hook elements can be made of the same material as the carrier frame and can be manufactured integrally and as one piece with the carrier frame, for example in one manufacturing step, or alternatively can be made of a different material to the carrier frame and fixed to the carrier frame, for example by an adhesive or screw connection.

[0041] In this case, the hook elements may be formed as straight (I) shaped projections. Alternatively, the hook elements may be formed curved, for example crescent shaped, or have an L-shape.

[0042] In particular, it is possible to provide a single hook element, but preferably two spaced apart hook elements, each formed, for example, on opposing carrier bars, and it is also possible to fasten a number of further hook elements to the carrier frame for fastening cleaning cloths.

[0043] The hook elements are used to secure the cleaning cloth to the carrier frame, preventing the cleaning cloth from slipping. The cleaning cloth is easily stretchable, so it can be easily stretched and pulled onto the hook elements when the cleaning cloth is placed over the carrier frame.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the hook elements are formed on the carrier bar of the carrier frame and extend from the carrier bar in particular in the direction of the receptacle. This allows the cleaning cloth to be placed over the carrier frame from the fixing bridge in the direction of the receptacle. After being placed over the carrier frame, the opening area of ​​the cleaning cloth is located in the area between the receptacle and the cleaning part. When the hook elements extend from the carrier frame in the direction of the receptacle, the cleaning cloth can be hooked at the opening area of ​​the cleaning cloth, effectively preventing the cleaning cloth from slipping relative to the carrier frame.

[0045] Alternatively, the hook elements may be fixed to one of the fixed bridges or upper or lower connecting bridges and extend from that bridge accordingly.

[0046] In the exemplary embodiment, the hook element is configured such that its free end is between the two opposing carrier bars, and the hook fastening with the cleaning cloth is performed at the free end of the hook element. When the free end of the hook element in the exemplary embodiment extends inward, i.e., into the area between the two opposing carrier bars, the hook element is prevented from overhanging outward, i.e., beyond the carrier bars, thereby preventing unintentional contact between the free end of the hook element and the area of ​​the surface to be cleaned, and thus preventing scratches or other damage to the surface to be cleaned.

[0047] In summary, the device of the present invention allows for limited access to the interior air filter housing in a vehicle. By adjusting the dimensions of the device, a higher cleaning effect can be achieved, especially in the corners and edges of the ventilation system filter box. The device combines the requirements for chemical and mechanical cleaning components in one cleaning tool. The device of the present invention achieves a more even distribution of the cleaning solution on the surface to be wetted than by applying it to a cloth or by directly pouring it into the filter box. Finally, the device of the present invention allows for more even removal of dirt from the filter box than by performing a mechanical cleaning step using hands and a cloth. The device of the present invention can be configured so that the size of the detergent container is appropriate for a single cleaning with the cleaning solution, further ensuring a hygienic result by using a single cloth.

[0048] It should be noted that the embodiments described herein represent only a limited selection of possible variant embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, since the features of the individual embodiments can be combined with each other in any appropriate manner, a large number of different embodiments should be considered as clearly disclosed by those skilled in the art by the variant embodiments explicitly described herein. In particular, some embodiments of the present invention are described in device claims, and other embodiments of the present invention are described in method claims. However, those skilled in the art will immediately realize by reading this application that, unless expressly stated otherwise, in addition to combinations of features belonging to one type of the inventive subject matter, any combination of features belonging to different types of the inventive subject matter is also possible. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0049] For a further explanation and better understanding of the present invention, exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of an apparatus for cleaning a hollow space in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is a plan view of the device in FIG. [Figure 3] 1 is a side view of an apparatus for cleaning a hollow space with corresponding upper and lower side ends of a carrier bar in an exemplary embodiment of the invention; [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an apparatus for cleaning a hollow space in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a receiver according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are exemplary views of a cleaning agent container received within a receptacle. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic view of an apparatus for cleaning a hollow space, in which a cleaning cloth is fixed to a cleaning section in an exemplary embodiment of the invention; [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic view of an apparatus for cleaning hollow spaces having hook elements for fastening a cleaning cloth in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] 1 is a schematic view of an apparatus for cleaning hollow spaces having hook elements for fastening a cleaning cloth in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0050] The same or similar elements in different drawings are given the same reference numerals. The representations in the drawings are schematic.

[0051] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view and FIG. 2 illustrates a plan view of an apparatus 100 for cleaning a hollow space in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] The invention relates in particular to an apparatus 100 for cleaning hollow spaces of a vehicle ventilation system with a cleaning agent. The apparatus 100 comprises a receiving part 101 for receiving a cleaning agent container 600 (see FIG. 6) and a cleaning part 102, the cleaning part 102 forming a carrier frame 103 configured so that a pocket-shaped cleaning cloth 700 (see FIG. 7) can be placed over the cleaning part 102 so that an internal volume can be formed. The cleaning part 102 is connected to the receiving part 101 so that cleaning agent from the cleaning agent container 600, which can be fixed to the receiving part 101, can flow from the receiving part 101 into the internal volume.

[0053] The carrying frame 103 can be covered with a pocket-shaped cleaning cloth 700. The carrying frame 103 thus holds the cleaning cloth 700 in a fixed manner, so that the cleaning cloth 700 together with the carrying frame 103 can be placed in a hollow space, for example, of a ventilation system, for carrying out machine cleaning.

[0054] Furthermore, the device 100 has a receptacle 101. A cleaning agent container 600 can be interchangeably received in the receptacle 101 and fixed in a predetermined position. The cleaning agent container 600 contains a cleaning liquid which can be dispensed, in particular, in the form of a spray, foam or aerosol, for example.

[0055] The receiving section 101 is connected to the cleaning section 102 so that the detergent can flow out of the detergent container 600 into the interior volume of the cleaning section 102 evenly, even to the edge regions, thereby wetting the cleaning cloth 700 from the inside. The support frame 103 stretches the cleaning cloth 700, forming a pocket-like interior volume within the cleaning cloth 700, allowing the detergent to reach the inner surface of the cleaning cloth 700 over a wide area and penetrate the entire surface of the cleaning cloth uniformly.

[0056] The carrier frame 103 has at least two spaced apart carrier bars 104 that extend spaced apart from one another from the receiver 101 along a longitudinal direction 1 and along a transverse direction q that extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 1. The carrier bars 104 are shaped such that the cleaning cloth 700 can be placed over the carrier bars 104 to form an internal volume between the carrier bars 104. The longitudinal direction 1 defines the extension of the carrier bars 104 from the receiver 101 in the direction of the free ends of the opposing carrier bars 104.

[0057] The carrier bars 104 extend parallel to the receptacle 101 and are equally spaced apart in the transverse direction q at their respective free ends as well as at the receptacle 101 .

[0058] The distance between the upper side edge 301 and the lower side edge 302 defines the distance between the upper and lower surfaces of the cleaning cloth 700 by placing the corresponding surfaces of the cleaning cloth 700. The greater the distance between the upper side edge 301 and the lower side edge 302, the greater the distance between the upper and lower surfaces of the cleaning cloth 700, and the larger the internal surface area formed.

[0059] At least one upper connecting bridge 106 is provided between the upper side edges 301 of the carrier bars 104, on which a region of the cleaning cloth 700 can rest, so that the connecting bridge 106 prevents the cleaning cloth 700 from dropping between the carrier bars 104 towards the internal volume and thereby interfering with the distribution of the cleaning agent.

[0060] Furthermore, at least one lower connecting bridge 107 is provided between the lower side ends 302 of the carrier bars 104, on which a region of the cleaning cloth 700 can rest. The lower connecting bridge 107 can be formed corresponding to the upper connecting bridge 106. A region of the internal volume is located between the upper connecting bridge 106 and the lower connecting bridge 107. Since the cleaning cloth 700 rests on the connecting bridges 106, 107, the upper connecting bridge 106 and the lower connecting bridge 107 prevent the cleaning cloth 700 from folding between the carrier bars 104 and interrupting the internal volume. The lower connecting bridge 107 and the upper connecting bridge 106 extend parallel to each other between the carrier bars 104.

[0061] 1, the lower connecting bridges 107 and the upper connecting bridges 106 are offset from each other in the extension direction of the carrier bar 104 (i.e., the longitudinal direction 1). In other words, the upper continuous bridges 106 are spaced apart from adjacent lower continuous bridges 107 in the longitudinal direction 1. This ensures that the internal volume in the longitudinal direction 1 is formed over the entire length in the longitudinal direction 1 with fewer connections, and reduces the risk of the upper surface of the cleaning cloth 700 coming into contact with the lower cloth surface of the cleaning cloth 700, thereby interrupting the internal volume.

[0062] Furthermore, the carrier frame 103 has fixed bridges 105 connecting the free ends of the carrier bars 104. The carrier bars 104 thus have a rigid connection at each of their ends, resulting in a robust construction.

[0063] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view and FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of an apparatus 100 for cleaning a hollow space, the apparatus having upper and lower side ends 301, 302 of corresponding carrier bars 104 in an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0064] The carrier bar 104 has an upper side edge 301 and a lower side edge 302 along a width direction b that is formed perpendicular to the longitudinal direction l and the transverse direction q. The upper side edge 301 and the lower side edge 302 are configured such that the applied cleaning cloth 700 rests at least partially on the upper side edge 301 and the lower side edge 302 to form an internal volume.

[0065] The carrier bar 104 has a rectangular cross section, the width of which defines the distance between the upper lateral edge 301 and the lower lateral edge 302 in the width direction b. When the cross section is rectangular, the thickness of the carrier bar 104 is defined in particular along the transverse direction q, and the length of the carrier bar 104 is defined in the longitudinal direction 1. In particular, the carrier bar 104 is formed in the shape of a band, i.e. has a rectangular cross section and is at least five times wider than it is thicker.

[0066] The upper connecting bridges 106 are arranged on the upper side ends 301 of the carrier bars 104, so that the resting areas of the upper connecting bridges 106 for the cleaning cloths 700 are spaced apart from the upper side ends 301 in the width direction b. In addition, at least the lower connecting bridges 107 are arranged on the lower side ends 302 of the carrier bars 104, so that the resting areas of the lower connecting bridges 107 for the cleaning cloths 700 are spaced apart from the lower side ends 302 in the width direction b. In other words, the upper cloth surface contacts the upper surfaces of the upper connecting bridges 106 at the carrier bars 104 and also contacts the surfaces of the upper side ends 301 of the corresponding carrier bars 104 between two adjacent upper connecting bridges 106. This results in a zigzag resting surface of the upper cloth surface along the carrier bars 104. The same applies to the lower cloth surface along the lower side ends 302 of the carrier bars 104.

[0067] The flow channel 402 is shown in the cross section of Figure 3. The flow channel 402 is formed in such a way that when the cleaning agent container 600 is received in the receiving part 101 between the receiving part 101 and the cleaning part 102, an outflow element 603 (see Figure 6) of the cleaning agent container 600 protrudes into the flow channel 402. The cleaning agent container 600 is fixed to the receiving part 101, for example, by means of a clamping element 401. This allows the cleaning agent to flow out of the outflow element 603 through the flow channel 402 between the receiving part 101 and the cleaning part 102, in particular through the internal volume, to the free end of the carrier bar 104 or to the fixed bridge 105.

[0068] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of receiver 101 of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] The receptacle 101 has a clamping element 401 configured to hold the detergent container 600 by clamping. The clamping element 401 is, for example, elastic. The clamping element 401 can be configured, for example, as an elastic tab in the housing of the receptacle 101. As shown in FIG. 5, two clamping elements 401 can be configured as tabs and formed on the receptacle 101 facing each other. Accordingly, a user can grasp the receptacle 101 and press the clamping elements 401 against each other. The clamping element 401 has, for example, a clamping wedge at its free end, which can apply a high pressing force to the detergent container 600 located inside. As shown in FIG. 6, the clamping wedge can be engaged with a flange 601 of the detergent container 600 for improved fastening.

[0070] The detergent container 600 may have, for example, an outlet valve with a corresponding outlet small tube (outlet element 602). The channel 402 in the receiver 101 can be arranged so that the outlet small tube protrudes into the channel 402 when the detergent container 600 is fixed at a predetermined position in the receiver 101. To facilitate easier reception into the channel 402, the opening of the channel 402 into the receiver 101 can be made funnel-shaped or stepped, so that the outlet small tube is received in the center of the channel 402 when the detergent container 600 is inserted into the receiver 101. The receiving small tube of the detergent container 600 can be sealed by the wall of the channel 402 by providing a sealing element, for example a rubber sealing ring, at the opening of the channel 402.

[0071] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary view of a cleaning agent container 600, such as a spray can, for receiving the receptacle 101.

[0072] The cleaning agent container 600 can hold cleaning agent at a pressure of, for example, 0.5 to 12 bar. As an example, the cleaning agent container 600 can have a flange 601 or a collar that can be inserted into the receptacle 101 in an insertion direction. The clamping element 401 clamps onto the flange 601 or a surface of the cleaning agent container 600, thereby clamping and fixing the cleaning agent container 600 in a predetermined holding position of the cleaning agent container 600. The clamping force is selected so that the weight of the cleaning agent container 600 does not cause the cleaning agent container 600 to fall out of the receptacle 101, and a release force in the direction opposite to the insertion direction by the user is required.

[0073] FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic diagram of an apparatus 100 for cleaning a hollow space, with a cleaning cloth 700 secured to the cleaning portion 102, in an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0074] In particular, the carrier frame 103 is configured to tension the pocket-shaped cleaning fabric 700 so that an internal volume (internal volume) can be formed. By way of example, the carrier frame 103 separates the opposing front and rear planar cleaning portions 102 of the cleaning fabric 700. The width b of the carrier frame 103, over which the cleaning fabric 700 is tensioned, is in particular less than 2 cm, in particular less than 1 cm, so that the carrier frame 103 together with the cleaning fabric 700 can be inserted even into a small opening in the filter box, which a user's hand would not fit through.

[0075] In this way, the cleaning unit 102 can be placed into the hollow space to be cleaned together with the cleaning cloth 700 soaked in the cleaning agent, and both chemical and mechanical cleaning can be performed simultaneously. The cleaning agent container 600 dispenses the cleaning agent into the internal volume, and the cleaning agent is distributed throughout the entire internal volume, automatically soaking the cleaning cloth 700 in the cleaning agent.

[0076] 8 and 9 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the device 100 having hook elements 801 for securing the cleaning cloth 700 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Two hook elements 801 are formed on the carrying frame 103. The hook elements are configured to hook onto the material of the cleaning cloth 700 or the receiving opening 901 to prevent slippage. The hook elements 801 form protrusions extending from the surface of the carrying frame 103, particularly from the lower end of the carrying bar 104, toward the receiving portion 101. This allows the hook elements 801 to penetrate into or pierce the cleaning cloth 700, forming a complementary engagement and preventing the cleaning cloth 700 from slipping relative to the carrying frame 103.

[0077] In FIG. 9, cleaning cloth 700 has a receiving opening 901 through which free ends 802 of hook elements 801 can be grasped.

[0078] The hook elements 801 may be manufactured using the same material as the carrying frame 103, and may be manufactured as an integral and one-piece piece with the carrying frame 103, for example in one manufacturing step.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, the hook element 801 has a crescent-shaped configuration that reduces the risk of the cleaning cloth 700 unintentionally detaching from the hook element 801 when the free end 802 is inserted into the receiving opening 901 of the cleaning cloth 700.

[0080] The cleaning cloth 700 is placed on the carrier frame 103 from the fixed bridge 105 toward the receiving section 101. After being placed on the carrier frame 103, the opening area of ​​the cleaning cloth 700 is in the area between the receiving section 101 and the cleaning section 102 (see FIG. 9 ). When the hook elements 801 extend from the carrier frame 103 toward the receiving section 101, the cleaning cloth 700 can be hook-fixed at the opening area of ​​the cleaning cloth 700, thereby effectively preventing the cleaning cloth 700 from slipping relative to the carrier frame 103.

[0081] In particular, the free ends 802 of the hook elements 801 are located between the two opposing carrier bars 104. The hook fastening with the cleaning cloth 700 is performed at the free ends 802 of the hook elements 801. When the free ends 802 of the hook elements 801 extend inward, the corresponding hook elements 801 are prevented from extending outward, i.e., beyond the carrier bars 104, thereby preventing unintentional contact between the free ends 802 of the hook elements 801 and the area of ​​the surface to be cleaned.

[0082] It should be noted that "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and that the indefinite article does not exclude a plurality. It should also be noted that features or steps described with reference to one of the above embodiments can be used in combination with other features or steps of the above embodiments. Reference signs in the claims should not be considered as limiting. (Other possible items) (Item 1) A device (100) for cleaning hollow spaces, in particular of a vehicle ventilation system, with a cleaning agent, said device (100) comprising: a receiving portion (101) for receiving a cleaning agent container (600); A cleaning section (102) is provided. The cleaning section (102) forms a support frame (103) configured so that a pocket-shaped cleaning cloth (700) can be placed over the cleaning section (102) to form an internal volume, The cleaning section (102) is connected to the receiving section (101) so that the cleaning agent in the cleaning agent container (600) can flow from the receiving section (101) into the internal volume of the device (100). (Item 2) 2. The device (100) according to item 1, wherein the receiving portion (101) has a clamping element (401) configured to hold the cleaning agent container (600) by clamping. (Item 3) 3. The device (100) according to item 2, wherein the clamping element (401) comprises an elastic material. (Item 4) 4. The device (100) according to item 2 or 3, wherein the clamping element (401) is formed by a spring element, by means of which the clamping element (401) can be pressed against the cleaning agent container (600). (Item 5) 2. The device (100) according to item 1, wherein the receiving portion (101) has a latch element that can be pressed into a recess in the cleaning agent container (600). (Item 6) 6. The device (100) according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein a flow path (402) is formed between the receiving portion (101) and the cleaning portion (102), and the flow path is formed such that an outlet element (603) of the cleaning agent container (600) protrudes into the flow path (402) when the cleaning agent container (600) is received in the receiving portion (101). (Item 7) 7. The device (100) according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the cleaning part (102), in particular the carrier frame (103), is arranged in a jointed manner relative to the receiving part (101) so that the cleaning part (102) is displaceable relative to the receiving part (101). (Item 8) 8. The device (100) according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the cleaning part (102), in particular the carrying frame (103), has elastic regions so that the cleaning part (102) is deformable relative to the receiving part (101). (Item 9) the support frame (103) has at least two spaced apart support bars (104) that extend from the receiving portion (101) in a longitudinal direction (l) spaced apart from one another and in a transverse direction (q) extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (l); 9. The device (100) according to any one of items 1 to 8, wherein the carrier bars (104) are configured such that the cleaning cloth (700) can be placed over the carrier bars (104) and the internal volume can be formed between the carrier bars (104). (Item 10) Item 10. The device (100) according to item 9, wherein the carrier bar (104) has an upper side edge (301) and a lower side edge (302) along a width direction (b) formed perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (l) and the transverse direction (q), and the upper side edge (301) and the lower side edge (302) are formed so that the cleaning cloth (700) placed thereon is at least partially placed on the upper side edge (301) and the lower side edge (302) to form the internal volume. (Item 11) Item 11. The device (100) according to item 10, wherein at least one upper connecting bridge (106) is provided between the upper side ends (301) of the carrier bars (104), on which a region of the cleaning cloth (700) can be placed. (Item 12) Item 12. The device (100) according to item 10 or 11, wherein at least one lower connecting bridge (107) is provided between the lower side ends (302) of the carrier bars (104), on which a region of the cleaning cloth (700) can be placed. (Item 13) 13. The device (100) according to items 11 and 12, wherein the lower connecting bridge (107) and the upper connecting bridge (106) extend parallel to each other between the carrier bars (104). (Item 14) 13. The device (100) according to items 11 and 12, wherein the lower connecting bridge (107) and the upper connecting bridge (106) are arranged one above the other in the width direction. (Item 15) 13. The device (100) according to items 11 and 12, wherein the lower connecting bridge (107) and the upper connecting bridge (106) are arranged offset from each other in the extension direction of the carrier bar (104). (Item 16) at least the upper connecting bridge (106) is arranged on the upper side edge (301) of the carrier bar (104) so ​​that the resting area of ​​the upper connecting bridge (106) for the cleaning cloth (700) is spaced apart from the upper side edge (301) in the width direction (b); and / or 16. The device (100) according to any one of items 11 to 15, wherein at least the lower connecting bridge (107) is arranged on the lower side end (302) of the carrier bar (104) so ​​that the placement area of ​​the lower connecting bridge (107) for the cleaning cloth (700) is spaced apart from the lower side end (302) in the width direction (b). (Item 17) 16. The device (100) according to any one of items 9 to 15, wherein the support frame (103) has fixed bridges (105) connecting the free ends of the support bars (104). (Item 18) 18. The device (100) according to any one of items 1 to 17, wherein the receiving section (101) and the cleaning section (102) are integrally formed. (Item 19) The carrying frame (103) is formed with at least one hook element (801), 19. The device (100) of any one of items 1 to 18, wherein the hook element (801) is configured to hook onto the material of the cleaning cloth (700) or the receiving opening (901) to prevent slippage. (Item 20) 20. The device (100) according to item 19, wherein the hook elements (801) are formed on the carrier bars (104) of the carrier frame (103) and extend from the carrier bars (104) in particular in the direction of the receivers (101). (Item 21) 21. The device (100) according to item 19 or 20, wherein the hook element (801) is formed such that the free end of the hook element (801) is between two opposing carrier bars (104). (Item 22) A method for manufacturing a device (100) for cleaning hollow spaces, in particular of a vehicle ventilation system, with a cleaning agent, said method comprising the steps of: providing a receiving portion (101) for receiving a cleaning agent container (600); providing a cleaning section (102); The cleaning section (102) forms a support frame (103) configured so that a pocket-shaped cleaning cloth (700) can be placed over the cleaning section (102) to form an internal volume, and The method includes connecting the cleaning section (102) and the receiving section (101) so that the cleaning agent in the cleaning agent container (600), which is securable to the receiving section (101), can flow from the receiving section (101) into the internal volume. (Item 23) 23. The method according to item 22, wherein the receiving part (101) and the cleaning part (102) are integrally manufactured by injection molding. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 100 devices 101 Receptor 102 Cleaning section 103 Support frame 104 Support bar 105 Fixed Bridge 106 Upper Connecting Bridge 107 Lower Connecting Bridge 301 Upper side edge 302 Lower side edge 401 Clamping Elements 402 Flow path 403 Funnel-shaped reception 600 detergent containers 601 flange 602 Outflow Elements 700 cleaning cloths 801 hook element 802 Free end 901 Receptor opening l Longitudinal direction q Horizontal b Width direction

Claims

1. 1. A device for cleaning hollow spaces, in particular of a ventilation system of a vehicle, with a cleaning agent, said device comprising: a receiving portion for receiving the cleaning agent container; and A cleaning unit is provided. The cleaning unit forms a support frame configured to allow a pocket-shaped cleaning cloth to be placed over the cleaning unit so that an internal volume can be formed, The cleaning unit is connected to the receiver such that cleaning agent in the cleaning agent container, which is securable to the receiver, can flow from the receiver into the internal volume.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the receptacle comprises a clamping element configured to hold the cleaning agent container in a clamping manner.

3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the clamping element comprises a resilient material.

4. 3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the clamping element is formed by a spring element, by means of which the clamping element can be pressed against the cleaning agent container.

5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the receiver comprises a latch element that is pressable into a recess in the detergent container.

6. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein a flow path is formed between the receiving portion and the cleaning portion, the flow path being configured such that an outlet element of the cleaning agent container protrudes into the flow path when the cleaning agent container is received in the receiving portion.

7. 2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning part, in particular the carrier frame, is arranged in a jointed manner relative to the receiving part such that the cleaning part is displaceable relative to the receiving part.

8. 2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning part, in particular the carrier frame, has elastic regions such that the cleaning part is deformable relative to the receiving part.

9. the support frame has at least two spaced apart support bars extending longitudinally from the receptacle and spaced apart from one another along a transverse direction extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the carrier bars are configured such that the cleaning cloth can be placed over the carrier bars and the interior volume can be formed between the carrier bars.

10. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein the carrier bar has upper and lower side edges along a width direction formed perpendicular to the longitudinal and lateral directions, the upper and lower side edges being shaped so that the cleaning cloth placed thereon rests at least partially on the upper and lower side edges to form the internal volume.

11. 11. The device of claim 10, wherein at least one upper connecting bridge is provided between the upper side ends of the carrier bars, on which a region of the cleaning cloth can be placed.

12. 12. The device of claim 11, wherein at least one lower connecting bridge is provided between the lower side ends of the carrier bars, on which a region of the cleaning cloth can be placed.

13. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the lower connecting bridge and the upper connecting bridge extend parallel to each other between the carrier bars.

14. The device of claim 12 , wherein the lower connecting bridge and the upper connecting bridge are disposed one above the other in the width direction.

15. 13. The device according to claim 12, wherein the lower connecting bridge and the upper connecting bridge are arranged offset from each other in the extension direction of the carrier bar.

16. at least the upper connecting bridge is arranged on the upper side edge of the carrier bar so that the resting area of ​​the upper connecting bridge for the cleaning cloth is spaced apart from the upper side edge in the width direction; and / or 13. The device according to claim 12, wherein at least the lower connecting bridge is arranged on the lower side end of the carrier bar so that the resting area of ​​the lower connecting bridge for the cleaning cloth is spaced apart from the lower side end in the width direction.

17. 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the carrier frame has fixed bridges connecting the free ends of the carrier bars.

18. 18. The device of claim 1, wherein the receiving portion and the cleaning portion are integrally formed.

19. the carrier frame has at least one hook element formed thereon; 18. The device of any one of claims 9 to 17, wherein the hook element is configured to hook onto the material of the cleaning cloth or the receiving opening to prevent slippage.

20. 20. The device according to claim 19, wherein the hook elements are formed on the carrier bars of the carrier frame and extend from the carrier bars in particular in the direction of the receivers.

21. 20. The device of claim 19, wherein the hook element is formed so that a free end of the hook element is between two opposing carrier bars.

22. 1. A method for manufacturing a device for cleaning hollow spaces, in particular of a ventilation system of a vehicle, with a cleaning agent, said method comprising the steps of: providing a receptacle for receiving a cleaning agent container; providing a cleaning section; the cleaning unit forms a support frame configured to allow a pocket-shaped cleaning cloth to be placed over the cleaning unit so that an internal volume can be formed; and 10. A method comprising: coupling the cleaning portion and the receptacle such that cleaning agent in the cleaning agent container securable to the receptacle can flow from the receptacle into the interior volume.

23. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the receiving portion and the cleaning portion are integrally manufactured by injection molding.

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