A sorting system for suction machine

Abstract

The invention relates to an appliance designed for use, especially in urban or industrial vacuum cleaners, where waste is sucked up and subsequently collected in a container. The appliance comprises a flap positioned above the container, capable of partial pivoting around an axis parallel to the plane containing the opening of the container. The flap can be placed in more than one predefined position. This variable positioning allows the sucked items to be deposited in different containers or compartments according to the characteristics thereof. The appliance can be controlled manually or automatically on the basis of electronic or optical sensors.

Description

A sorting system for suction machineField of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of cleaning hard surfaces and, more particularly, to sorting the waste in the containers of street vacuum cleaner machines.Background of the invention

[0002] Road vacuum cleaners are commonly used for cleaning roads since they facilitate the cleaning of large surface areas more efficiently allowing the operator to be more productive and significantly reducing the physical effort required to remove significant amounts of rubbish or waste in a short time.

[0003] These road vacuum cleaners have principally a traction system to ease their movement and a sucking system to suck the rubbish or any kind of waste on the roads and collect it in a container.

[0004] This type of appliance is usually equipped with a suction hose, which is handled by an operator, and wherein the end of the hose comes into contact with the areas to be sucked from debris or waste, enabling the direct vacuuming of the waste and its conveyance towards a receptacle or a container placed on the appliance.

[0005] Today’s legislation makes it increasingly necessary to recycle any waste that can be recycled. Therefore, separating different types of waste materials is a pivotal measure to enhance their recyclability. It is beneficial if the sorting of waste happens at an early stage, such as during waste collection, rather than introducing additional steps like sorting, which can further promote because, in today’s vacuum machines, waste is not separated according to its nature or composition. Currently, all vacuumed waste is collected in a single container, rendering its subsequent recyclability exceptionally challenging without additional processing steps. i

[0006] Incorporating a sorting device within or onto the sucking appliance presents a substantial challenge due to the need to consider the unique constraints of the appliance, such as the standardized dimensions of the containers, the additional expected cost, the space limitation, the increased complexity, the reliability of the sorting step, the technical issues, and many more. Thus, providing a sorting appliance in or on the vacuum cleaner represents a considerable challenge, since it is necessary to take into account the specific constraints of the appliance, for example, the often- standardized dimensions of the containers as well as the diameters of the pipes and flexible tubes used to lead the waste toward the container. These diameters can be varied or adjusted to make the machine capable of vacuuming objects of variable size.

[0007] An excavator for suction material, particularly for removing soil from underground pipes has been disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5425188. This apparatus features two tank portions equipped with a top flap to direct the suctioned material into one of these portions. However, the function of the flap is not intended to separate the suctioned material but to allow a continuous suction excavator operation while emptying one of the tank portions. The same functionality has been disclosed in DE. Pat. 102020001928 where a suction nozzle can be directed toward one container while the other is being emptied. Additionally, for sorting or separating the suctioned material, a refuse collecting vehicle equipped with a refuse collecting apparatus has been disclosed in WO 2022 / 189165.

[0008] A waste separation appliance with a flexible tube has been disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 20180297084. In this appliance, one of the end of the flexible tube is rendered, enabling it to shift or pivot between positions to allow waste to be deposited and collected in a different container or compartment. A drawback of such a mobile end of the tube is the susceptibility to waste entrapment, resulting in potential blockages or system failures. Furthermore, the described solution lacks ergonomic, sustainable, and durable attributes.

[0009] The present invention aims to provide a new and improved sucking appliance that overcomes some of the above problems and limitations by providing the possibility of sorting the sucked items during the cleaning process in a reliable manner, eliminating the necessity for additional steps, all while preserving the same efficiencyand comfort of the operator. In addition, the present invention mitigates the potential for technical complications, such as item blockages, during the sorting process.Summary of the invention

[0010] The present invention is related to a suction machine for separating and sorting sucked items being placed on surfaces to be cleaned, comprising at least :- an air flow generator means for providing an air stream in order to collect sucked items from the surfaces to be cleaned;- a container comprising at least 2 compartments, each having an opening situated within a plane (A), preferably oriented horizontally;- an actuator;- a conveying means, preferably in the form of a hose for the transportation of sucked items from the surfaces to be cleaned to the container, comprising a proximal end and a distal end, said distal end being suitable for receiving the sucked items; characterized in that said suction machine further comprises at least;- a flap being able to pivot at least partially relative to the container about an axis (B) that is parallel to the plane (A); wherein the actuator is suitable for actuating the pivoting movement of the flap about the axis (B), so as to pivot the flap in a position, said position being one among several predefined positions, such that each position allows the drop-off and collection of sucked items in an individual compartment or of said container, with the help of the airstream.

[0011] Preferably, the suction machine comprises a cover having an opening with a distal end and a proximal end configured to allow the passage of sucked items during the operation of said suction machine from the hose to the container.

[0012] Preferably, the flap comprises a first fold and a second fold on each edge in the longitudinal direction of said flap.

[0013] Preferably, the first fold is arranged on a side facing the proximal end of the opening. The first fold may be positioned below, above, or at any elevation relative to the opening.

[0014] Preferably, the second fold is arranged on a side facing the opening of the container.

[0015] Preferably, the flap is arranged to pivot to a first position directed to the first compartment and a second position directed to the second compartment.

[0016] Preferably, the flap is connected to a connecting rod actuated by the actuator.

[0017] Preferably, the torsion spring acts as a safety device to prevent the actuator from being forcibly expelled or retracted in the event of obstruction or blockage of the flap.

[0018] Preferably, the mounting mechanism is affixed to said suction machine to maintain the flap in a location between the proximal end of the hose and the opening of the container, preferably in a location on top of the opening of the container.

[0019] Preferably, the actuator is actuated by a control unit controlled manually by an operator which actuates said actuator for selectively pivoting the flap from one position to another position.

[0020] Preferably, each position of the flap is indicated by an indicator.

[0021] Preferably, the suction machine comprises an air flow generator for producing a suction at the distal end of the hose.

[0022] Preferably, the proximal end of the hose is affixed in a stationary position above the opening of the container.

[0023] The present invention is also related to an urban or industrial vacuum cleaner.Brief description of the drawings

[0024] Figure. 1 ; An overview of an urban or industrial vacuum cleaner, so as to illustrate the main field of use of the invention.

[0025] Figure. 2; The principle of separation of the appliance of the invention.

[0026] Figure. 3; The front perspective view of the sorting mechanism of the invention according to a preferred embodiment.

[0027] Figure. 4; The back perspective view of the sorting mechanism of the invention according to a preferred embodiment.

[0028] Figure. 5; The exploded view of the sorting mechanism of the invention according to a preferred embodiment.

[0029] Figure. 6; The see-through 3D visualization of the cover showing the sorting mechanism of the appliance of the invention.

[0030] Figure. 7; The see-through 3D visualization of a cross-section of the cover showing the sorting mechanism of the appliance of the invention.

[0031] Figure. 8; The see-through 3D visualization of the two positions of the flap representing the two sorting positions.

[0032] Figure. 9; The see-through 3D visualization of the entire assembly, encompassing the sorting mechanism with the cover, and the container.Detailed description of the invention

[0033] The present invention will be described in greater detail in one or more preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the appended figures and for which elements or details can be combined. The same principle applies when combining elements from the figures which illustrate the principal component of the current invention.

[0034] Figure 1 is a general view of a contemporary urban or industrial vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaner is illustrated by the reference 100. It is supplied with a suction hose 50 which is intended for manual manipulation by the operator or cleaning agent, ensuring that its distal end 52 maintains contact with the ground or maintains a close distance to the ground sufficient to suck items with the suction power provided by the vacuum cleaner. The proximal end 51 of said hose 50, preferably resilient and flexible, is connected directly to the vacuum cleaner, more precisely to the distal end 42 of the opening 41 (not shown in Figure 1 ) covered by the cover 40. A container 30 collecting the waste, a driving means 60, and a moving steer 61 are also seen in Figure 1.

[0035] Figure 2 demonstrates the underlying separation principle of the invention, although not all of the invention’s features are fully depicted. Within the vacuum cleaner,the hose 50 is connected from its proximal distal end 51 to a distal end 42 of the opening 41 that has the form of a pipe, preferably rigid. The opening 41 is configured to allow and direct the incoming sucked items or waste drawn through the hose 50 into the container 30. Figure 2 illustrates the opening 41 in a vertical direction, but other directions, such as horizontal or inclined, may also be suitable. The hose 50 is preferably made flexible to allow easy manipulation by the operator and to reach broader areas without the necessity of moving the whole vacuum cleaner 100 by its moving steer 61 , and its driving means 60.

[0036] The conveying means incorporated within the suction machine 100 may be in the form of a hose 50. It is crucial to note that alternative forms may also be conceivable. More importantly, the conveying means may comprise a distal end 52 being suitable for receiving the collected or sucked items and a proximal end 51 affixed in a stationary position either to the cover 40 through the opening 41 (Figure. 2) or directly to a filtration station or sorting station. It is worth mentioning that the hose 50 has only a single distal end 52, characterized by at least a degree of freedom in movement, while the other proximal end 51 remains firmly fixed in a stable, immovable position. More than one hose 50, whether of the same or different types or configurations, may be employed for the same suction machine 100. In the context of street vacuum cleaners, the hose 50 may be substituted with a suction opening, preferably positioned toward the surface to be cleaned, responsible for conveying the collected items through internal tubes or channels until they reach their final destination, such as container 30.

[0037] The main feature of the invention is the manner in which the flap 20 is flapping into at least two predefined positions to allow the sorting of waste. Each position (Figure 2a and Figure 2b) of the flap 20 represents a sorting position to allow a specific waste to be stored in a specific compartment 32 or 33 or specific container 30. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, two positions, Figure 2a and Figure 2b, are provided for sorting the waste into two compartments 32, 33 or two different containers 30. More than 2 compartments or containers may be placed in the vacuum cleaner to allow the sorting of more than two types of waste in order to separate the sucked items or waste according to specific material or size or color or type, or any characteristics or properties in general thereof.

[0038] Figure 3 shows the configuration of flap 20, designed for at least partial pivotal movement about a horizontal axis B parallel to plane A containing the plane of the opening 31 of the container 30 (shown in Figure 2). The flapping movement is initiated by an actuator 2, consisting for example of an electric motor connected to connecting rods 6 and / or 7 through a linear cylinder. The connecting rod 7 may be connected to the connecting rod 6 by a torsion spring 4 shown in detail in detail C of Figure 3. The connecting rod 6 or 7 may be directly connected to the flap 20. Alternative actuation systems or mechanisms, including but not limited to pneumatic or rotational systems, can also be employed. The electrical motor drives the said linear cylinder to effect linear motion and thereby flap the flap 20 from one position to another. The detail C of Figure 3 shows a torsion spring 4 that may serve to allow the actuating mechanism, in this embodiment the linear cylinder of the actuator 2 that is actuated by an electric motor, to move without any possible opposing force exerted by the flap 20, even in instances where the flap 20 is obstructed by any means or blocked by any sucked item. The torsion spring 4 may also serve to protect the operator in case he / she opens the cover 40 to perform any action that requires the opening of the cover 40 and access to the inside of the suction machine 100. In other words, if an obstruction impedes the movement of flap 20 when the operator initiates its action, and the obstructing item has not yet reached compartment 32 or 33 of the container 30, the torsion spring 4 may compress, facilitating the flap movement and avoiding potential damage to the linear cylinder and therefore the electric motor or in general the actuator 2 due to resistance to the movement. Additionally, the torsion spring 4 may serve the additional purpose of facilitating the adjustment of the mechanical stops governing the two or more positions of the flap 20 pivot without encountering counter forces.

[0039] Figure 4 illustrates the back side of the primary feature described previously. The positioning indication system for the flap primarily comprises two indicator components 17 and 18, both affixed to a common axis B, which corresponds to the pivotal movement of the flap 20. The indicator 17 is intended to be fixed, while the indicator 18 is configured to track the flapping movement of the flap 20. It should be noted that alternate embodiments may exist, providing additional means for the operator to consistently differentiate whether the flap 20 has been pivoted to direct the sucked items towards compartment 32 or compartment 33. In other embodiments, electronic sensors may be mounted to track the position of the flap 20. Each of thesesensors may provide a signal that can be processed by a signal processing means to infer therefrom the position of the flap 20. The system can then repay this information to the operator through various means, such as illuminated indicator or any suitable visual or sudatory signals.

[0040] According to one embodiment, each end of the two positions of the flap 20, which is linked to a connecting rod 6 or 7, is equipped with a stopper 11 or a bumper comprising a silent block made of a shock-absorbing material like rubber. This configuration may serve a dual purpose: firstly, to effectively dampen abrupt change of the pivot movement of the flap 20 and, secondly, to minimize operational noise, thereby promoting quiet operation.

[0041] The actuator 2 is preferably operated through a control unit, or a command means integrated within the handle 70 (shown in Figure 1 ), which the operator utilizes to manipulate and reposition the hose 50 across the area to be cleaned. Alternatively, the control unit may be conveniently situated in the moving steer 61 or in another accessible location for the operator to enable immediate action, thereby facilitating prompt adjustment of the flap 20 to direct the sucked items into the designated compartments 32 or 33, as intended. The moving steer 61 may comprise a switch or a button or a knob or a screen, or any controller that, when activated, selectively positions the flap 20 to direct the flow of the sucked item to the desired compartment 32 or 33 or facilitates seamless transition of the flap 20 between different positions as required. The decision of the operator is depending on the type of the sucked waste or item.

[0042] According to another embodiment, an automated selection process may be employed based on the detection of specific characteristics related, for example, to the nature or composition of the collected item identified through electronic, optical or other advanced detectors or sensors. Preferably, the detectors or sensors are positioned upstream of the sorting mechanism, for example, at the distal end 52 or the inlet of the hose 50 or the opening 41 of the cover 40. This arrangement may allow adequate time for the sorting mechanism to align with the desired position while ensuring that the prior collected item, which has not yet reached the container 30, is directed into the incorrect compartment 32 or 33 too rapidly. Various types of detectors or sensors may be employed, including those recognized in the prior art, such asdetectors capable of identifying the presence of metal components such as NIR (Near Infrared) detectors. The signals generated by these detectors will be transferred toward a command module, which will command the actuation of the sorting mechanism of the invention depending on the detected components. Generally, the NIR or equivalent detectors may exhibit a longer response time compared to metal component detectors. Therefore, the NIR or equivalent detectors are preferably installed further away from the distal end 51 of the hose 50 than the metal component detectors. Additionally, other smart systems or algorithms rooted in image processing and machine learning may also be implemented to enhance the precision and efficiency of the system in determining the appropriate position for the flap 20.

[0043] The response time, from the moment the operator initiates an action via the control unit, actuates the actuator 2 to the point at which the collected item reaches the sorting mechanism, is contingent upon the type or characteristics. These attributes encompass variations in size, weight, shape, and other factors. Furthermore, the interaction of each item with the inner lining of the hose 50 can differ, impacting the time elapsed from the point of entry at the distal end 52 of the hose 50 to its arrival at the flap 20 of the sorting mechanism. Consequently, this time may fluctuate for each distinct item. The operator may rely on an auditory cue or a live status display provided by a camera placed within the cover, showing real-time sorting mechanism status. All the mentioned elements may be considered when determining the optimal response time for positioning the flap 20 in the correct position.

[0044] Figure 5 shows an exploded view of the constituent components of the sorting mechanism of the suction machine 100. It is seen that the flap 20 comprises a central part provided with an extended first fold 20a, situated on a side facing the proximal end 43 of the opening 41 and a second extended fold 20b, positioned on the side facing the opening 31 of the container 30. The first fold 20a may be oriented parallel to the opening 31. Notably, the position of the first fold 30a ensures no obstruction or misleading of the collected waste from being directed to the intended compartment. Both folds 20a and 20b are positioned along the longitudinal direction of the flap 20. In other words, the folds 20a and 20b may act as extensions of the central part of the flap 20 projecting towards the longitudinal direction but with a different angle. It is important to note that the flap 20 may take various configurations, including one with a single extending fold, multiple folds, or no fold. Additionally, the flap 20 may beconstructed as a single unit or comprise multiple components. Preferably, the folds 20a and 20b are oriented longitudinally along the central part of the flap 20. While the sorting process may function without the need of any fold, the presence of folds 20a and 20b may enhance a better reliability by minimizing the risk of the collected item ending up in the incorrect compartment. It also boosts robustness by reducing the chances of sucked items becoming stuck between two compartments and / or between the flap 20 and the proximal end 43 of the opening 41 . The flap 20 may be affixed to the mounting mechanism 1 , which is typically attached to the suction machine. Alternatively, the flap 20 can be directly affixed to the suction machine 100 or the container 30. More importantly, the flap 20 possesses the capability to pivot, at least partially, relative to the mounting mechanism 1 about an axis B, which is parallel to the plane A containing the opening 31 of the container 30. Consequently, any pivoting position of the flap 20 directs the collected items toward either compartment 32 or 33. The flap 20 is also coupled to connecting rods 6 and / or 7, actuated by the actuator 2 to facilitate instantaneous pivoting motion. In other embodiment, the flap 20 may be capable of one or a combination of movements, including but not limited to flipping, sliding, turning, spinning, etc... providing the sucked item to follow a specific path to be collected in a desired compartment 32 or 33.

[0045] According to another embodiment, the sorting mechanism may comprise multiple flaps, such as two flaps strategically positioned within the cover 40, operating in synchronization to effectively guide the collected items into the designated compartments, namely compartment 32 or 33.

[0046] Sorting operations will be predicated upon specific attributes and certain characteristics of the collected waste or items.

[0047] Figure 6 illustrates a see-through 3D visualization of the backside of the cover 40 where the main components of the sorting system and the indicator system are mainly presented. The flap 20 is positioned in a position where the first extended fold 20a is arranged on a side facing or adjacent to the opening 31 , allowing the passage of the collected items into a single compartment 32 or 33 (Shown in Figure 2). The second extended fold 20b is arranged on a side facing the opening 31 of the container 30. It is important to emphasize that the flap 20 may exhibit a wide range of motions or / and angles. Furthermore, It is worth highlighting that both sides of the flap20 may serve to sort the collected items. The operator may quickly and easily determine the position of the flap 20 by looking at the indicator 17, 18, conveniently positioned on one of the sides of the suction machine 100.

[0048] According to another embodiment, The flap 20 may be capable of pivoting or rotating a complete 360 along the axis B.

[0049] According to another embodiment, the pivoting axis B of the flap 20 may be placed vertically toward the plane A of the opening 31 of the container 30 where the same principle of two or more predefined positions of the flap 20 may serve to sort the collected items.

[0050] According to another embodiment, the flap 20 may have one or more pivoting axes placed vertically or horizontally toward the plane A of the opening 31 of the container 30.

[0051] A filtration system for filtering for example, sand or water, may be installed in the suction machine 100 to avoid mixing of sand or water in the compartment 32 or 33 with the collected and sorted items.

[0052] The flap 20 may pivot at least partially relative to the container 30 about an axis B that aligns parallel to the plane A, encompassing the opening 31 of the container 30 or compartments 32 and 33. Preferably, the flap 20 maintains a fixed position within the region between the opening 41 , through which the collected items are transferred from the hose 50 to the container 30, and the opening 31 of the container 30. In cases where the container 30 is oriented horizontally, the flap 20 is preferably situated directly over the opening 31 of the container 30. Generally, the flap 20 may be situated at an approximate distance from the opening 31 of the container 30, thereby facilitating the sorting of collected items before their entry into either compartment 32 or 33. In all scenarios, the flap 20 should be able to pivot in order to allow the sorting and, therefore, the direction of the collected items with the help of the air stream, ensuring their placement in the intended compartment 32 or 33 before passing through the opening 31 of the container 30.

[0053] Figure 7 illustrates a see-through 3D visualization of the front side of the cover 40, which showcases the primary components of the sorting system. The mounting mechanism 1 , where the actuator 2 as well as the flap 20 is mounted, maybe connected to the suction machine 100. Alternatively, the flap 20 may also be directly attached to the container 30. The mounting mechanism 1 prioritizes the robustness of the system while simultaneously maintaining its mechanical simplicity. This is achieved by utilizing a limited number of components, which may also streamline maintenance procedures as may be necessary. Furthermore, the mounting mechanism 1 may serve to facilitate the mounting and installation of the sorting system inside the suction machine 100, where space is confined as much as possible, ensuring easy manipulation by the operator. Additionally, in the event of maintenance requirements, the operator may have the advantage of disassembling the mounting mechanism 1 for the inspection or replacement of any defective part. Another notable advantage of the mounting mechanism 1 is its rapid disassembly capability in the event of sorting mechanism failure. By, for example, simply unscrewing a limited number of screws, the operator can rapidly replace the entire mounting mechanism with an operational sorting system which significantly reduces the downtime of the suction machine 100.

[0054] The actuator 2 is linked to the connecting rod 7. Upon activation, the connecting rod 6 is propelled through the operation of a torsion spring 4. The said torsion spring 4 serves as a safety device, preventing the actuator 2 from being forcibly expelled or retracted in the event of the flap 20 being obstructed or blocked by a collected item or by any other impediment. The connecting rod 7 may be linked to a linear cylinder so that when the actuator 2 is activated, the said connecting rod 7 will pivot, which, in turn, actuate the pivotal motion of the flap 20 due to their interconnection. Two stoppers 11 are incorporated in the mounting mechanism 1 to effectively stop the pivoting motion of the connecting rod 7 and, consequently, the positioning of the flap 20 at a predetermined or predefined position. This mechanism minimizes both shock and noise, thus enhancing operational smoothness.

[0055] According to another embodiment, the actuator 2 may also be coupled to the connecting rod 6, wherein the propulsion of the connecting rod 7 is achieved through the action of the torsion spring 4, thereby maintaining identical functionality and purpose.

[0056] The suction arrangement comprises a suction means such as but not limited to a fan or any airflow generator or any negative pressure generator connected to the hose 50, which can generate a negative pressure into the container 30. Duringoperation, the operator positions the distal end 52 of the hose 50 to face closely the area to be cleaned. The negative pressure generator facilitates the creation of an air stream, which, in turn, enables the transportation of collected items from the distal end 52 of the hose 50 to either compartment 32 or 33 within the container 30. This air stream, generated by the negative pressure generator, is designed to efficiently collect a wide range of common waste items, sometimes relatively heavy, typically found in public areas, such as, but not limited to, filled bottles, metallic parts, food, and more. Furthermore, this air stream may be employed to guide the collected items to their designated compartment 32 or 33 by directing the air stream or airflow using the flap 20. In essence, the flap 20 may function as an air stream flow blade or fin, guiding the air along a specific path to ensure that the collected items are routed to the correct and intended compartment 32 or 33, thus streamlining the collection process.

[0057] Figure 8a and Figure 8b present the two positions of the flap 20 representing the two sorting positions of the collected waste. Each sorting configuration facilitates the directed traversal of the collected items along a distinct trajectory, guiding them into the desired compartment 32 or 33. In Figure 8a the frontal surface of the flap 20 facing the opening 41 helps to redirect the collected waste into the intended compartment 32 or 33. In more detail, the collected waste passes through the opening 41 and either hits the frontal surface of the flap 20 and drops to the intended compartment or directly drops to the compartment. Both folds 20a and 20b leave almost no possibility of the collected item being deposited into the alternate compartment. Conversely, in Figure 8b the rear surface of the flap 20 may become functional. In more details, the collected waste traverses the opening 41 , impacting either the inner surface of the back of the cover 40 or the rear surface of the flap 20 to end up in the intended compartment 32 or 33 or dropping directly into said compartment 32 or 33. It is important to mention that the two folds 20a and 20b play an important role by assisting the displacement of any collected item situated between the opening 41 and the opening 31 of the container 30. This assist occurs while the operator actuates the actuator 2 to change the flap 20 from one position to another, eliminating the possibility or significantly minimizing the risk of any collected item to be blocked. The shape of the flap 20 with the two folds 20a and 20b may not only facilitate the directed movement of collected waste when stationary but also push the collectedwaste to the intended compartment 32 or 33 during transitional phases between sorting positions.

[0058] The sorting system and the controller 2 are designed to facilitate the sequential sorting of collected items individually. This process involves the operator making decisions for each collected item by activating a control mechanism, such as a button. Activation of this mechanism initiates the pivotal movement of the flap 20, directing the respective collected item to the designated compartment 32 or 33 of the container 30. The decision of the operator may involve leaving the flap 20 in its current position if the collected item belongs to the same category or type as the preceding one. However, intentional action from the operator is required to alter the position of flap 20 when the collected item differs in type or category, necessitating its placement in a different compartment.

[0059] The actuator 2 controls the movement of flap 20, which remains consistently positioned according to the stopper 11 . This means that no force is exerted on the actuator 2 when the flap 20 is in a predefined position. Force is only exerted by the actuator 2 when the operator activates it to transition the flap 20 from one position to another.

[0060] Figure 9 presents a see-through 3D visualization of the entire assembly, encompassing the sorting mechanism with the cover 40 and the container 30. The cover 40 houses the sorting mechanism, featuring the pivotal flap 20. To facilitate access to the container 30, an operator may elevate the cover 40 using a handle 80. This action allows the operator to access the container 30, facilitating tasks such as emptying one or both of its compartments 32 and 33.

[0061] It is worth noting that the sorting mechanism within the suction machine 100 may, of course, be used or implemented in an apparatus of different types and sizes while keeping the above-mentioned advantages. For example, it is conceivable to design a suction appliance that may offer two, three or even more positions about the axis B for sorting into a corresponding number of containers. Additionally, there is room for considering alternative configurations for other aspects of this invention.

Claims

Claims1 . A suction machine (100) for separating and sorting sucked items being placed on surfaces to be cleaned, comprising at least :- an air flow generator means for providing an air stream in order to collect sucked items from the surfaces to be cleaned;- a container (30) comprising at least 2 compartments (32) and (33), each having an opening (31 ) situated within a plane (A), preferably oriented horizontally;- an actuator (2);- a conveying means, preferably in the form of a hose (50) for the transportation of sucked items from the surfaces to be cleaned to the container (30), comprising a proximal end (51 ) and a distal end (52), said distal end (52) being suitable for receiving the sucked items;- a flap (20) being able to pivot at least partially relative to the container (30) about an axis (B) that is parallel to the plane (A); wherein the actuator (2) is suitable for actuating the pivoting movement of the flap (20) about the axis (B), so as to pivot the flap (20) in a position, said position being one among several predefined positions, such that each position allows the drop-off and collection of sucked items in an individual compartment (32) or (33) of said container (30), with the help of the airstream; characterized in that the flap (20) comprises a first fold (20a) and a second fold (20b) on each edge in the longitudinal direction of said flap (20).

2. The suction machine (100) according to claim 1 , wherein said suction machine (100) further comprises a cover (40) having an opening (41 ) with a distal end (42) and a proximal end (43) configured to allow the passage of sucked items during the operation of said suction machine (100) from the hose (50) to the container (30).

3. The suction machine (100) according to claim 1 , wherein the second fold (20b) is arranged on a side facing the opening (31 ) of the container (30).

4. The suction machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flap (20) is arranged to pivot to a first position directed to the firstcompartment (32) and a second position directed to the second compartment (33).

5. The suction machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flap (20) is connected to connecting rod (6) and / or connecting rod (7) actuated by the actuator (2).

6. The suction machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a safety device, preferably a torsion spring (4), acts as a safety device to prevent the actuator (2) from being forcibly expelled or retracted in the event of obstruction or blockage of the flap (20).

7. The suction machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a mounting mechanism (1 ) affixed to said suction machine (100) to maintain the flap (20) in a location between the proximal end (51 ) of the hose (50) and the opening (31 ) of the container (30), preferably in a location on top of the opening (31 ) of the container (30).

8. The suction machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the actuator (2) is connected to the mounting mechanism (1 ).

9. The suction machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator (2) is actuated by a control unit (60) controlled manually by an operator which actuates said actuator (2) for selectively pivoting the flap (20) from one position to another position.

10. The suction machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each position of the flap (20) is indicated by an indicator (17, 18).

11. The suction machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said suction machine (100) further comprises an air flow generator for producing a suction at the distal end (52) of the hose (50).

12. The suction machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the proximal end (51 ) of the hose (50) is affixed in a stationary position above the opening (31 ) of the container (30).

13. The suction machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the suction machine is an urban or industrial vacuum cleaner.

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