Holding plate with latching elements

Abstract

The invention relates to a holding plate (2) for a vacuum cleaner filter bag (1), comprising a through-opening (14) and a holding element (12) which protrudes from a plane defined by the through-opening. The holding plate has a maximum width, perpendicularly to an insertion direction of the holding plate, ranging from 55 mm to 94 mm, the distance between the center of the through-opening and the holding plate edge located at the front in the insertion direction ranges from 28 mm to 53 mm, and the position of the holding element satisfies one of three definitions. The invention additionally relates to a device (20) for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag (1) in a vacuum cleaner (7) and to a vacuum cleaner.

Description

[0001] Holding plate with locking elements

[0002] The present invention relates to a holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag, as well as a device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag with such a holding plate in a vacuum cleaner.

[0003] Conventional vacuum cleaner filter bags typically comprise an air-filtering filter medium and a retaining plate connected to the filter medium for holding the vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner. The retaining plate contains an opening through which the airflow laden with dust and dirt enters the filter bag during vacuuming. To ensure proper operation of the vacuum cleaner, the vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner filter bag should be compatible. For example, the filter bag must be the correct size to achieve optimal use of space within the vacuum cleaner's dust collection chamber and optimal dust and dirt absorption capacity of the filter bag. To this end, manufacturers are increasingly ensuring that vacuum cleaners can only be operated with filter bags specifically designed for that vacuum cleaner.

[0004] EP 2 744 383 A1 discloses a holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag, which has a key formed on one side and a concave recess on the outer lateral edge section on the opposite side. In an installed position, a spring on the device presses laterally into the concave recess of the holding plate, so that the key is pressed against a correspondingly designed lock in the vacuum cleaner housing. This coordination between the key on the holding plate and the lock on the vacuum cleaner, also referred to below as coding, prevents the use of a filter bag that is not intended or suitable for the vacuum cleaner.

[0005] Changing a vacuum cleaner filter bag with these properties requires many, sometimes complicated, handling steps. For example, when inserting a new, empty filter bag, the holding plate must first be pushed precisely into a narrow slot in a holding plate holder. In addition, the holding plate can easily become jammed during removal due to the spring force only acting on one side and to the side. This generally makes changing the vacuum cleaner filter bag complicated and time-consuming. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag that offers simple handling during a vacuum cleaner filter bag change. In view of this, it is an object of the present invention to provide a holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag that enables uncomplicated changing of the associated vacuum cleaner filter bag.

[0006] This object is achieved by the holding plate for a vacuum cleaner filter bag according to claim 1 and by the device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner according to claim 8. Further aspects can be found in the associated subclaims.

[0007] According to the invention, the holding plate comprises a passage opening and a holding element which protrudes from a plane defined by the passage opening, wherein the holding plate has a maximum width perpendicular to an insertion direction of the holding plate of between 55 mm and 94 mm, wherein a distance between the center of the passage opening and a front edge of the holding plate in the insertion direction is between 28 mm and 53 mm, and wherein the position of the holding element fulfills one of the following criteria: a) the holding element is located in a region which is arranged at a distance of between 28 mm and 40 mm around the center of the passage opening, and wherein the region is formed around a center axis of the passage opening perpendicular to the insertion direction and in a plane of the holding plate in an angular range between 0° and 180°;b) the holding element is located, as viewed from the centre of the through-opening, in an area which is arranged at a distance of between 0 mm and 20 mm along the direction of insertion and at a distance of between 22 mm and 45 mm in a direction perpendicular to the direction of insertion; c) the holding element is located, as viewed from the centre of the through-opening, in an area which is arranged at a distance of between 0 mm and 20 mm opposite the direction of insertion and at a distance of between 29 mm and 57 mm in a direction perpendicular to the direction of insertion.

[0008] A retaining plate with these properties is designed for easy handling when changing a vacuum cleaner filter bag, with the retaining plate attached to it. The retaining plate is held in a designated position, which is defined by the position of the retaining element, by a counterpart to this retaining element on the device side (i.e., on the side of the vacuum cleaner). It is not necessary to slide the retaining plate into a narrow slot to hold the retaining plate in the designated position. The need for a spring arranged laterally of the retaining plate is also eliminated.

[0009] The retaining element can protrude vertically from the plane. The retaining plate can have a maximum width of 93 mm. The distance between the center of the through-hole and the front edge of the retaining plate in the insertion direction can be 50 mm.

[0010] The retaining element is an element of the retaining plate that is designed for force- or form-fitting engagement with a counterpart. Alternatively, the retaining plate can also be defined as a base plate comprising the retaining element and the through-opening. In this case, the retaining element protrudes from the base plate.

[0011] The maximum width of the retaining plate refers to the maximum distance between two edges on the outer contour of the retaining plate along a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0012] The retaining plate can be designed to be inserted into a device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner. The device comprises a counterpart that can be engaged with the retaining element.

[0013] The insertion direction refers to the direction in which the retaining plate is inserted or inserted into the device for its intended use. Accordingly, an edge can be defined that is at the front in the insertion direction.

[0014] The passage opening is an opening in the support plate through which the dust- and dirt-laden air is directed during operation of the vacuum cleaner. In a vacuum cleaner filter bag, the filter medium is attached to the support plate, allowing air to pass through the passage opening into the interior of the filter medium. The passage opening can be circular. The center of the passage opening can be located on a central axis of the support plate. This central axis can divide the support plate into two halves, each with half the maximum width.

[0015] The position definition of the retaining element and certain length definitions are referenced to the center point of the passage opening. With the specific position of the retaining element according to criteria a) to c), it has been found that this arrangement enables a stable mounting of the retaining plate in a vacuum cleaner while simultaneously keeping handling easy for the customer.

[0016] Criterion a) can alternatively be formulated as follows: The retaining element is located in a circular ring section with an inner radius of 34.5 mm and an outer radius of 51 mm in an angular range between 0° and 180° around the center of the passage opening and, starting from a central axis of the passage opening, perpendicular to the insertion direction and in a plane of the retaining plate. The above-mentioned criteria b) and c) for the position of the retaining element can be described using the maximum width of the retaining plate as follows: b) the retaining element is located, viewed from the center of the passage opening, in an area that is at a distance of between 0 mm and 20 mm from the center of the passage opening along the insertion direction, and at a distance between (B ma x / 2 - 4 mm) and (B max / 2 - 25 mm) perpendicular to the direction of insertion; c) the retaining element is located, as seen from the center of the passage opening, in an area which is at a distance between 0 mm and 20 mm opposite to the direction of insertion, and at a distance between (B ma x / 2 - 0 mm) and (B ma x / 2 - 18 mm) in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0017] With regard to definition a), the holding element can further be arranged on the side of the front edge of the holding plate, viewed from the central axis of the passage opening perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0018] The holding element can be designed as a locking element in the form of a locking hook, or the holding element can be designed in the form of a clamping element which in particular comprises two clamping jaws.

[0019] A locking hook creates a positive connection with a corresponding counterpart, while the clamping element creates a frictional or force-fit connection. Both types of connection are sufficiently stable and therefore allow for a secure mounting of the retaining plate. Furthermore, both alternatives for the retaining element design ensure easy handling when changing the vacuum cleaner filter bag.

[0020] The retaining plate may further comprise an additional retaining element according to one of criteria a), b), and c). The additional retaining element may be arranged such that the arrangement of the two retaining elements is symmetrical about an axis. This axis may run parallel to the insertion direction and optionally through the center of the passage opening.

[0021] Alternatively, the additional retaining element can also be designed such that it meets a different one of criteria a) to c) than the (first) locking element. For example, if the retaining element is arranged according to criterion a), the additional retaining element can be arranged according to criterion b) or c).

[0022] For a holding plate with two retaining elements, two counterparts are also provided on the device side. This improves the holding of the holding plate in the vacuum cleaner compared to a holder with only one retaining element. A symmetrical arrangement of the retaining elements is particularly advantageous in this regard, because the holding or engagement takes place on both sides of the holding plate. However, non-symmetrical arrangements also offer greater stability than a single retaining element.

[0023] The retaining plate can further comprise a recess in an outer contour of the retaining plate. The retaining plate can comprise a further recess in the outer contour of the retaining plate. The further recess can be arranged such that the arrangement of the two recesses is symmetrical to an axis that runs, in particular, parallel to the insertion direction through the center of the through-opening. Optionally, the recess and, if applicable, the further recess are not located in the front edge in the insertion direction.

[0024] The purpose of the recess becomes clear in the context of the device. A locking hook on a locking element can penetrate through the recess on the retaining plate into a retaining plate receptacle on which the retaining plate is arranged, and there engage with the retaining plate receptacle. There is no locking between the retaining plate and the locking element's locking hook. This additional locking of the locking element secures or holds the retaining plate in its specified position.

[0025] The retaining plate can comprise a first key portion formed in a first region of the outer contour of the retaining plate, wherein the first key portion comprises a plurality of projections and recesses arranged between two adjacent projections. The key portion can be configured to cooperate with an engagement element on the device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner. The key portion and the engagement element are brought into engagement with one another.

[0026] The key portion essentially fulfills two functions, which result from interaction with an engagement element of the device. The device can comprise an engagement element that can be engaged with the key portion. This engagement can, on the one hand, hold the retaining plate in the device in the intended position. On the other hand, this engagement can also be used to implement coding, in that engagement is only achieved when the key portion and the engagement element fit together. Thus, a retaining plate that is not provided for cannot be used in a vacuum cleaner with such a device.

[0027] Furthermore, the retaining plate can be designed largely freely as long as it adheres to the specified dimensions. Furthermore, the retaining plate can comprise a second key portion formed in a second region of the outer contour of the retaining plate, wherein the second key portion comprises a plurality of projections and recesses arranged between two adjacent projections, and wherein the first region is opposite the second region with respect to an axis parallel to the insertion direction, for example, the central axis running through the center of the through-opening.

[0028] Key sections formed in both areas of the outer contour allow engagement with the locking element in both areas. This improves the stability of the retaining plate on the retaining plate holder.

[0029] The first key portion and the second key portion may comprise a plurality of projections, as well as recesses arranged between two adjacent projections. In particular, each of the key portions may comprise two, three, four, or more projections. Accordingly, each key element may comprise one, two, three, or more recesses.

[0030] The projections and recesses ensure a secure interlock between the engagement element and the key sections. Furthermore, the interlocking makes the holder more stable when a plurality of projections and recesses are involved. A higher number of projections can contribute to improved stability of the holder in the described device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag.

[0031] The projections can have a substantially rectangular or trapezoidal shape. These shapes are well suited to being gripped by a clamp of the engagement element, thus improving the stability of the mount.

[0032] The individual projections of the key sections can be of identical design. The individual projections can be of different design in terms of their shape and / or size. The spacing between adjacent projections, where the spacing is determined by the width of the corresponding recesses, particularly along the insertion direction, can also be of identical or different design in one or both key sections.

[0033] The projections of the first key portion and the second key portion can be elastic. Elastic in this case can mean that the projections deform in response to a tensile force exerted by the user. The vector of this tensile force lies in particular perpendicular to an extension direction of the projections and in the plane of the passage opening. This feature is advantageous when there is a positive connection between an engagement element of a holding plate receptacle and the key portions when the locking element is in the closed position. A positive connection per se no longer allows any displacement of the holding plate on the holding plate receptacle. However, if the projections that engage with the engagement element are elastic, a (minor) displacement of the holding plate can still occur without affecting the positive connection.Such a displacement may be necessary, for example, to release the engagement between the retaining element and its counterpart.

[0034] The retaining plate may be mirror-symmetrical with respect to the first key portion and the second key portion.

[0035] The retaining plate may be symmetrical with respect to a plane parallel to the thickness direction of the retaining plate.

[0036] The recess(es) may be spatially separated from the first key section and / or second key section.

[0037] The retaining plate may further comprise a gripping portion, where the retaining plate has a local thickening. This gripping portion is located, in particular, on a front edge of the retaining plate opposite the insertion direction.

[0038] The locking mechanism between the retaining plate and the locking hook of the locking element can be released by sliding it. To do this, the user can easily grasp the retaining plate at the handle and pull accordingly. The local thickening makes it easier for the user to hold the retaining plate while pulling.

[0039] The retaining element can be formed integrally with the retaining plate. This means that the retaining element and the rest of the retaining plate can be made of the same material.

[0040] The retaining plate can thus be manufactured from a single material, making the process particularly simple and efficient. For example, the retaining plate can be manufactured using injection molding. This allows for a wide variety of shapes.

[0041] Alternatively, the retaining element can comprise a different material than the rest of the retaining plate. In particular, the retaining plate can be manufactured using two-component injection molding.

[0042] These considerations regarding the manufacturing and material of the retaining element apply equally to any additional retaining element that may be provided. The retaining element can comprise a different material than the rest of the retaining plate. For example, it may be desirable for the retaining element to be made of a softer or more elastic material. This makes the retaining element (e.g., as a locking hook) more flexible, so that the holder is reversible and the retaining element is less likely to break under stress. In such a case, the two-component injection molding process is suitable for production because molds comprising two different materials can be produced efficiently.

[0043] Suitable materials for the retaining plate, in particular for the retaining element, are plastic materials such as polyoxymethylene (POM), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or mixtures thereof. The retaining plate can comprise a material made from recycled materials and / or renewable raw materials. Recycled materials include, for example, reused (recycled) plastic. Renewable raw materials include, in particular, paper, cardboard, hay, or other plant-based materials. Examples of recycled plastic are recycled polypropylene (rPP), recycled polyethylene (rPE), recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), or mixtures thereof. In particular, these can be recycled plastics according to one or more of the DIN standards EN 15342:2008-02, EN 15344:2008-02, EN 15345:2008-02, or EN 15346:2015-01.

[0044] Vacuum cleaner filter bags, including the retaining plate, can be disposable. They can be designed to be disposed of after use when full. Therefore, for sustainability reasons, it is advantageous to manufacture at least the retaining plate from one of the aforementioned recycled or renewable raw materials.

[0045] The present invention also relates to a vacuum cleaner filter bag comprising a filter medium, in particular comprising a nonwoven fabric, and a retaining plate firmly connected to the filter medium, wherein the retaining plate is a retaining plate as described above. The connection can be an adhesive connection or a welded connection. The vacuum cleaner filter bag can be a flat bag.

[0046] The present invention further provides a device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner. The device comprises a holding plate receptacle with a support surface, wherein the support surface is designed to receive a previously described holding plate, and a closing element pivotable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closing element comprises a counterpart to the holding element of the holding plate, wherein the counterpart is designed to be engaged with the holding element of the holding plate in the closed position of the closing element, so that the closing element is held in the closed position by this engagement. These features simplify handling for a user of the vacuum cleaner, especially when inserting and removing the vacuum cleaner filter bag. It is sufficient to place the holding plate of the vacuum cleaner filter bag onto the holding plate receptacle.Furthermore, the force that holds the retaining plate in its specified position does not act sideways, preventing it from jamming. When removing the vacuum cleaner filter bag, the retaining plate can be easily lifted out of the vacuum cleaner as soon as the locking element is in the open position.

[0047] The retaining plate holder serves to hold the retaining plate. The retaining plate holder has a support surface that accommodates the retaining plate, for example, by placing the retaining plate on the support surface. The support surface can be a flat surface. This allows the retaining plate holder to be designed simply. The retaining plate can be placed onto the retaining plate holder from above and removed again in the opposite direction. A retaining plate held by the retaining plate holder rests on the support surface of the retaining plate holder.

[0048] Even if the retaining plate holder has a structure, the support surface can still be considered a plane if a flat retaining plate rests / is arranged on the support surface. For example, the support surface can be the plane spanned by the contact points between the retaining plate and the retaining plate holder.

[0049] The locking element can be pivoted between an open and a closed position. Thus, the locking element can have a pivot axis. The pivot axis can be located in the plane of the support surface of the retaining plate holder. Alternatively, the pivot axis can be arranged above the support surface of the retaining plate holder.

[0050] The retaining plate holder can further comprise a bearing element configured to hold the retaining plate against movement perpendicular to the support surface of the retaining plate holder. The bearing element can also be configured to hold the retaining plate against lateral movement on the retaining plate holder parallel to the support surface.

[0051] In other words, the bearing element can be designed to hold / secure the retaining plate against movement perpendicular to the support surface and to hold / secure it against movement parallel to the support surface. Thus, the bearing element restricts movement of the retaining plate at least along two axes. These two axes are perpendicular to each other. The bearing element can be a rigid component of the retaining plate holder. Alternatively, the bearing element can be a flexible component of the retaining plate holder and can be pivoted, for example, into its intended storage position, in which the retaining plate is fixed, when the retaining plate is arranged on the retaining plate holder.

[0052] The advantage of this arrangement of the bearing element is that the retaining plate can be placed freely on the retaining plate holder without being obstructed by the bearing element. This further increases user comfort.

[0053] The device may further comprise a spring element that exerts a spring force that pushes the locking element toward the open position. Alternatively, the spring element may exert a force that counteracts a holding force of the locking hook.

[0054] If the locking element is not engaged with the retaining plate, the spring force ultimately forces the locking element into the open position, or at least toward the open position. When the locking hook is engaged with the retaining plate, the locking element is held in the closed position by the locking mechanism, counter to the spring force. For this purpose, the retaining plate is fixed by the bearing element, preventing the retaining plate from being lifted from the retaining plate holder by the spring force.

[0055] The spring element may comprise a leg spring, a torsion spring, a roller spring, a coil spring, a wheel spring, a bow spring, a bar spring or a leaf spring or may include a combination of the aforementioned spring types.

[0056] The spring element can be attached to the retaining plate holder and / or the locking element. Alternatively, the spring element can also be attached to another component, such as a vacuum cleaner housing. In the case of a leg spring, the center of the leg spring can be located on the pivot axis of the locking element. One of the two legs of the leg spring presses against the locking element, while the other leg presses against the retaining plate holder or the housing.

[0057] When the locking mechanism between the locking element and the retaining plate is released, the locking element opens automatically due to the spring force and does not require a separate handling step by the user. This simplifies the use of the device.

[0058] The locking element of the device can comprise an engagement element on a side facing the retaining plate receptacle, which is designed to engage with the first key portion and / or second key portion of the retaining plate. The device can therefore be designed, in particular, to receive a retaining plate with a first and / or second key element.

[0059] The engagement element, which is formed on or in the locking element, is designed to hold the retaining plate in the predetermined position when the locking element is in the closed position. For this purpose, the engagement element is engaged with the key portion of the retaining plate. The retaining plate and the engagement element can engage or be engaged in a form-fitting manner. Alternatively, the engagement can allow freedom of movement so that the retaining plate remains movable (slidable) on the retaining plate receptacle. This can be achieved, for example, by maintaining a distance between the engagement element and the key portion when the two elements are engaged or by components of the engagement element and / or the key portion in the retaining plate being elastic.

[0060] The terms “interlock” and “be engaged” are to be understood as synonymous in the context of this description.

[0061] The specified position is the position on the retaining plate holder in which the retaining plate must be positioned for the vacuum cleaner to operate as intended. Specifically, this means that the dust-laden air conveyed through a suction hose and / or suction nozzle is directed through the opening of the retaining plate into the vacuum cleaner filter bag. In this case, the opening of the retaining plate is positioned in accordance with the suction hose or an associated suction nozzle.

[0062] The engagement element can comprise one or both of the following configurations. The engagement element can comprise a projection that engages with a recess in the retaining plate when the closure element is in the closed position. The engagement element can comprise a clip that engages a projection in the retaining plate when the closure element is in the closed position. The second configuration can also mean that the clip partially abuts the projection in the retaining plate when the closure element is in the closed position.

[0063] All of the options mentioned ensure secure holding of the retaining plate in the specified position through the interlocking of the engagement element and the projection / recess in the retaining plate. Furthermore, a positive fit can be achieved in this way. This retaining principle is applicable, on the one hand, for a flexible design of the retaining plate, and, on the other hand, the retaining plate and engagement element can be specifically matched to one another. This latter point allows for so-called coding, whereby those retaining plates can be used together with the device that feature this interlocking through a specific pattern of projections and recesses.

[0064] The engagement element may comprise a plurality of projections and / or clips. In particular, the respective number may correspond to the number of projections and recesses in the retaining plate.

[0065] The device may further comprise a further counterpart, wherein the further counterpart is designed to be brought into engagement with the further holding element of the holding plate in the closed position of the closing element, so that the closing element is held in the closed position by this engagement.

[0066] By engaging a second counterpart with a corresponding retaining element of the retaining plate, the load on each individual retaining element and counterpart is reduced, increasing the stability and reliability of the device. Furthermore, by locking the retaining plate on different sides of the retaining plate, one-sided loading of the retaining plate due to a one-sided pull is avoided, because the force acts symmetrically on the retaining plate and not on one side. This also improves the stability of the device.

[0067] The locking element can comprise a locking hook on a side facing the retaining plate receptacle, wherein the locking hook is designed to lock with the retaining plate receptacle when the locking element is in the closed position. In particular, the holding force of the locking hook is greater than the spring force.

[0068] It was already explained in connection with the bearing element that it may be necessary to hold the retaining plate against a force perpendicular to the support surface. In particular, in the presence of spring force, the retaining plate would be lifted from the support surface when it is engaged with the locking element. As an alternative to the bearing element, the locking hook can lock into the retaining plate holder. In this way, the locking element is held in the closed position after locking, and the retaining plate cannot be lifted from the support surface. There is no locking with the retaining plate. The aforementioned recess in the retaining plate serves the purpose of allowing the locking element's locking hook to slide past the recess on the retaining plate into the retaining plate holder.

[0069] The device can also comprise a stop element, which is part of the locking element and is designed such that abutment of the retaining plate against the stop element leads to a pivoting of the locking element from the open position toward the closed position. Abutment of the retaining plate against the stop element can also lead to a (complete) pivoting of the locking element into the closed position. The latter optionally also includes the locking of the locking hook with the retaining plate.

[0070] The stop element can serve as an indicator that the holding plate is in the specified position on the holding plate holder. The user can easily see that the holding plate has been inserted correctly by the triggered pivoting of the locking element. This ensures correct use of the vacuum cleaner by reliably inserting the holding plate into the specified position. In addition, in order to hold the holding plate in the specified position, the locking element must be pivoted into the closed position. This can happen at least partially automatically with the help of the stop element. It is also possible for the stop element to pivot completely into the closed position when the user moves the holding plate into the specified position, which improves comfort for the user and makes handling the device easier.

[0071] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner comprising a housing with a lid and the described device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag, wherein the device is arranged in a dust collection chamber of the vacuum cleaner, wherein the lid is pivotally attached to the housing and is provided for closing the dust collection chamber, wherein the lid of the housing is closable when the closing element is in the closed position, and wherein the lid of the housing is not closable when the closing element is in the open position.

[0072] The locking element in the open position prevents the housing cover from being closed. For example, the cover can be a pivoting part of the housing that locks into place with the rest of the housing for closure. The locking element in the open position can block the pivoting of the cover by protruding from the housing in the open position, preventing the cover from locking into place with the rest of the housing.

[0073] The locking element remains in the open position if a spring element is provided and no retaining plate is arranged on the retaining plate holder, because the locking hook cannot engage and the spring force pushes the locking element towards the open position. However, if the lid cannot be closed and remains open, no suction can take place because the vacuum cleaner draws ambient air into the fan through the open lid and achieves no suction. Damage to the vacuum cleaner caused by vacuuming without a vacuum cleaner filter bag, which can be caused in particular by dust and dirt getting into the fan, can be effectively prevented.

[0074] Further features and advantages are explained below using the example figures. They show:

[0075] Figure 1 is a plan view, not to scale, of a first retaining plate;

[0076] Figure 2 is a plan view, not to scale, of a second retaining plate;

[0077] Figure 3 is a plan view, not to scale, of a third retaining plate;

[0078] Figure 4 is an oblique view of a device for holding a vacuum cleaner in a

[0079] Vacuum cleaner with a holding plate arranged therein;

[0080] Figure 5 is an oblique view of the device with a holding plate arranged therein in a vacuum cleaner; and

[0081] Figure 6 shows a vacuum cleaner comprising a device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner and a holding plate as an oblique view.

[0082] In the following and in the figures, the same reference numerals are used for the same or corresponding features in the various embodiments, unless otherwise specified.

[0083] Figure 1 shows a top view of a retaining plate 2 according to the invention for a vacuum cleaner filter bag, which is not necessarily to scale. It shows the top side of the retaining plate 2. The retaining plate 2 has a passage opening 14 through which the suction air stream laden with dirt and dust is directed into the interior of the vacuum cleaner filter bag during vacuuming. The center of the passage opening 14 is designated M. A seal 15, which consists, for example, of or comprises a thermoplastic elastomer, is located around the passage opening 14.

[0084] The holding plate 2 has a holding element 12 that protrudes perpendicularly from a plane defined by the through-opening 14. According to an alternative definition, the holding plate 2 comprises a base plate and the holding element 12, wherein the holding element 12 protrudes perpendicularly from the base plate. It is possible for the holding element 12 to be attached to an outer contour 9 of the holding plate. The outer contour 9 can be identified with the circumferential outer edge of the holding plate 2. The holding element 12 is designed in the form of a latching hook. The latching hook comprises a joining part. This is the outer projection of the latching hook, which is designed for latching.

[0085] In the figure, the maximum width B max of the retaining plate 2 is shown. According to the invention, this ranges between 55 mm and 94 mm. For example, the maximum width is 93 mm. A distance between the center point M of the through-opening 14 and a front edge 19 in the insertion direction E is, according to the invention, between 28 mm and 53 mm, for example, 50 mm. The insertion direction E is the direction in which the retaining plate is inserted or pushed into a device for holding the retaining plate.

[0086] The retaining element 12 is located in an area, as seen from the center point M of the through-opening 14, which is arranged at a distance of between 0 mm and 20 mm opposite the insertion direction E, and at a distance of between 29 mm and 57 mm in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction E. The retaining element 12 does not have to completely fill this area, but merely has to be arranged within it. This area is shown in the figure as a dashed rectangle. The retaining element 12 does not have to completely fill this area, but merely has to be located within this area.

[0087] It should be noted that the retaining element 12 does not necessarily have to be arranged to the right of the through-opening 14, but can be located symmetrically to the left of the through-opening 14. "Left" and "right" refer to the position of the locking recess 12a relative to the through-opening 14 in the plan view of the retaining plate 2.

[0088] The provision of the retaining element on the retaining plate offers a further advantage in addition to the aforementioned ease of handling. The retaining element can potentially break off if the retaining plate is handled improperly. However, since the retaining element is now attached to the retaining plate, a new vacuum cleaner filter bag with a new retaining plate can simply be inserted. The situation would be different if the retaining element were provided on the device itself. If the retaining element were to break off, the device holding the retaining plate in the vacuum cleaner would be unusable, and in the worst case, the vacuum cleaner would no longer be usable.

[0089] The holding plate 2 shown can be part of a vacuum cleaner filter bag (not shown). The vacuum cleaner filter bag comprises a filter medium, wherein the filter medium is connected to the holding plate, for example glued or welded. When vacuuming, an air stream laden with dirt and dust is guided through the passage opening 14 into the filter medium. The vacuum cleaner filter bag can, for example, be a flat bag. Figure 2 shows a further holding plate 2 according to the invention as a plan view. This largely coincides with the holding plate according to Figure 1, so that further explanation is omitted at this point. One difference between the two embodiments is that the holding element 12 is in the form of a clamping element.The clamping element comprises in particular two clamping jaws, between which a corresponding device-side counterpart is clamped in order to achieve a holding of the holding plate 2 by means of this force connection.

[0090] Regarding the position of the clamping element, the same definitions apply as in the description of Figure 1 regarding the locking hook, in particular with regard to the sizes xi, yi and B shown. ma x. For example, for the mounting plate shown: B ma x = 93 mm, xi = 0 mm, yi = 40 mm. An area according to the invention in which the clamping elements are provided is shown by the dashed rectangles.

[0091] Furthermore, the holding plate 2 comprises a further holding element 12, which is also designed as a clamping element, in particular identical to the (first) holding element 12. The further holding element 12 is located in an opposite half of the holding plate 2 with respect to an axis that runs parallel to the insertion direction E, in particular through the center point M of the passage opening 14. The two holding elements can be arranged symmetrically with respect to this axis.

[0092] It is understood that a retaining plate 2 according to the invention can also comprise two locking hooks as retaining elements 12 at the aforementioned positions instead of the two clamping elements. It is also conceivable for the (first) retaining element to be in the form of a locking hook and the further (second) retaining element to be in the form of a clamping element, or vice versa.

[0093] A third variant of a holding plate is shown in Figure 3. It results from the following modifications of the holding plate according to Figure 1:

[0094] First, the holding plate 2 has a further holding element 12 in the form of a locking hook with a joining part that protrudes vertically from the base plate. The further locking hook is also designed to interact with a corresponding counterpart in the device. In particular, the two locking hooks 12 are arranged symmetrically with respect to an axis that runs parallel to the insertion direction E.

[0095] It is understood that a retaining plate 2 according to the invention can also comprise two clamping elements as retaining elements at the aforementioned positions instead of the two locking hooks. It is also conceivable for the (first) clamping element to be in the form of a locking hook and the further (second) clamping element to be in the form of a clamping element, or vice versa. Arranging the retaining elements 12 in halves of the retaining plate 2 that are opposite one another with respect to the axis is advantageous because the retaining is achieved in the same way on both sides of the retaining plate 2. This makes the retaining element more stable overall than with just one retaining element.

[0096] In addition, a first key section 8 is formed in a first portion of the outer contour 9. This comprises a plurality of projections 8a. These projections 8a lie in a plane of the retaining plate 2. The projections 8a can, in particular, be rectangular or trapezoidal (also referred to as teeth). However, the shape of the projections 8a is not limited by this. A recess 8b is located between two adjacent projections 8a or teeth. The first key section 8 shown has a total of four projections 8a and three recesses 8b, although other suitable values ​​can also be used.

[0097] A second key section 8 is formed in a second section of the outer contour 9. The first section is opposite the second section, with the same definition of "opposite" being applied as in connection with the holding elements 12. The same considerations apply to the second key section 8 as to the first key section 8. The two key sections can be symmetrical or congruent. In other words, the holding plate 2 is mirror-symmetrical with respect to the two key sections 8. However, the two key sections 8 can also differ in shape.

[0098] The two key sections 8 are designed to interact with an engagement element of the device, so that the holding plate 2 is held in a predetermined position. In particular, this holding / fixing is achieved by an interlocking between the engagement element and the key sections (see Figure 4). Since the key sections are formed in both areas of the outer contour 9 of the holding plate 2, the holding is not only on one side, and the holding plate 2 can be better secured against displacement, especially rotation.

[0099] The first key section 8 and the second key section 8 also serve for coding so that only holding plates with the correct key section can be used in combination with a device described below (see Figures 4 and 5). This effectively prevents unsuitable vacuum cleaner filter bags from being used for a vacuum cleaner. This aspect is explained in more detail in connection with Figures 4 and 5. A recess 13 is also arranged in the outer contour 9. Due to the recess 13, a width of the holding plate 2 along a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction E is smaller in the area of ​​the recess 13 than in an area directly adjacent to the recess 13.The recess 13 serves the purpose of preventing a locking hook of the device according to Figure 4 from locking into the retaining plate 2 because of the recess, but rather allowing it to penetrate past the retaining plate 2 into a retaining plate receptacle and lock there. The retaining plate 2 includes a further recess 13 in the outer contour 9, to which the same considerations apply.

[0100] Overall, the holding plate 2 is axially symmetrical with respect to an axis parallel to the insertion direction and through the center point M of the passage opening 14.

[0101] It goes without saying that different components of the illustrated retaining plates can also be combined. For example, a retaining plate can have two key sections combined with one or two clamping elements. Optionally, a recess can also be provided in the outer contour of such a retaining plate.

[0102] Figure 4 shows an oblique view of a device 20 according to the invention for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner. The device comprises a holding plate receptacle (not shown) with a support surface and a closing element 4. A holding plate 2 is arranged on the support surface, as shown in more detail in Figure 3 (i.e., in particular, comprising two holding elements 12, each in the form of a latching hook, as well as a first and second key element and two recesses 13). The closing element 4 can be pivoted between a closed position and an open position. Figure 4 shows the closing element 4 in the open position.

[0103] Two counterparts 21 are formed on the locking element 4 for the two locking hooks on the retaining plate 2. The counterparts 21 are arranged on the side of the locking element 4 facing the retaining plate receptacle or the retaining plate 2. The counterparts 21 can, for example, be recesses or holes with an undercut, so that the joining part of the locking hooks engages with the corresponding undercut when the locking element 4 is pivoted into the closed position.

[0104] The device 20 further comprises a spring element 3. The spring element 3 exerts a spring force on the closing element 4, so that it is pushed towards the open position. The spring element 3 is connected to the closing element 4 and to the holding plate receptacle 5, but is not limited to this arrangement, as there are several ways of implementing the spring element 3 to achieve the aforementioned effect. For example, as shown in the figure, a leg spring can be arranged on the pivot axis 11 of the closing element 4, which exerts a torque when the closing element 4 is pivoted towards the closed position. More precisely, the center of the leg spring is located on the pivot axis 11, and one of the two legs presses against the closing element 4, while the other leg presses against the holding plate receptacle 5 or a part of the housing.The connection to the retaining plate holder 5 serves to ensure the stability of the suspension of the spring element 3. Another possibility is a curved leaf spring or flat spring mounted on the support surface of the retaining plate holder 5. When the locking element 4 is in the closed position, it presses on the leaf or flat spring, which accordingly exerts a spring force toward the open position.

[0105] The locking element 4 has an engagement element 10 on an edge section facing the holding plate receptacle 5. This engagement element is designed to engage with a recess and / or a projection in the holding plate. Specifically, for the holding plate shown in Figure 3, this means that the engagement element 10 comprises at least one projection that can engage with the recess in the holding plate 2, and / or that the engagement element 10 comprises at least one clamp that can engage around a projection in the holding plate 2. In the example shown, the engagement element 10 comprises a plurality of projections and clamps (one clamp and two projections). This pattern can thus be complementary to the key section 8 of the holding plate 2, which can accordingly comprise three recesses. This means that the number of projections and clamps corresponds in particular to the number of recesses and projections in the associated key sections 8 of the holding plate 2.The clamps can also nestle against a projection in the holding plate 2.

[0106] Finally, the device 20 can include an optional stop element (not shown). The stop element is generally a part of the locking element 4 and is designed such that abutment of the retaining plate against the stop element leads to a pivoting of the locking element toward the closed position. For example, the stop element is a projection on the locking element 4 against which the retaining plate strikes in the predetermined position. Since the pivot axis 11 of the locking element does not coincide with the stop point of the retaining plate, a torque is exerted on the locking element 4, which leads to its pivoting. The stop element thus serves, among other things, as an indicator that the retaining plate is in the predetermined position on the retaining plate holder 5. The user can therefore directly recognize the triggered pivoting of the locking element 4 and that the retaining plate has been inserted correctly.It is also possible that abutment of the retaining plate against the stop element leads to a (complete) pivoting of the locking element 4 into the closed position. When the retaining plate is inserted into the specified position on the retaining plate holder 5, the locking element 4 is pivoted into the closed position and thereby locks into the retaining plate.

[0107] The locking element 4 can be essentially U-shaped with two legs. The two legs are particularly symmetrical, with a locking hook 12 being provided on both legs. The retaining plate is therefore held symmetrically at the two edge sections of the retaining plate, which enables optimal retention and even distribution of the acting forces. One advantage of the U-shape is that the two legs securely fix the retaining plate, but at the same time, sufficient space remains between the two legs to prevent the opening and seal of the retaining plate from coming into contact with the locking element. The U-shape therefore represents an efficient design that does not restrict the function or geometry of the retaining plate.

[0108] Furthermore, the locking element 4 comprises two locking hooks 22 on the side facing the holding plate 2 (and also on the side facing the holding plate receptacle). These locking hooks 22 are arranged in such a way that when the locking element 4 is pivoted into the closed position, they are pivoted past the recesses 13 on the holding plate 2 and no locking occurs with the holding plate 2. Instead, the locking hooks 22 are locked to the holding plate receptacle. This locking holds the locking element 4 in the closed position against the spring force. In addition to the holding function, the locking hooks 22 and the recesses 13 can also be used to implement the coding mentioned above. The holding plate 2 must have the recesses 13 in the positions that match the locking hooks 22 in order to be used in this device.Unsuitable vacuum cleaner filter bags (with correspondingly unsuitable holding plates) cannot be used because the closing element 4 cannot then be pivoted into the closed position and locked there with the holding plate holder.

[0109] Figure 5 shows a further device according to the invention for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner, viewed from an oblique angle. Some elements of the device 20 were already introduced in Figure 4 and are therefore not explained again.

[0110] On the support surface of the holding plate receptacle there is a holding plate 2 according to Figure 2 (in particular comprising at least one holding element 12 in the form of a clamping element with two clamping jaws). The closing element 4 is in the closed position. The closing element 4 comprises a counterpart that is brought into engagement with the holding element 12 as soon as the closing element 4 is in the closed position. The counterpart 21 is clamped between the two clamping jaws of the holding element 12, so that a frictional connection is formed between the holding element 12 and the counterpart. The counterpart 21 is, for example, a pin or dome that is clamped between the two clamping jaws. It is also conceivable that the counterpart 21 is a stiffening rib of the closing element 4. Such stiffening ribs are inserted between an inner and an outer wall of the closing element 4 in order to increase its dimensional stability.

[0111] The force connection holds the locking element 4 in the closed position, even against the force of the spring element 3.

[0112] The closing element 4 can be designed such that, in the closed position, an upper surface of the closing element 4 extends tangentially with a portion of the retaining plate receptacle 5. This allows the user to intuitively recognize that the retaining plate 2 is correctly arranged in the specified position. This ensures that the retaining plate 2, with its seal 15 located around the opening 14, is correctly positioned in all three axes relative to the intake nozzle of a vacuum cleaner, so that the dust-laden air is completely directed through the opening 14.

[0113] Finally, Figure 6 shows a vacuum cleaner according to the present invention. The vacuum cleaner 7 comprises a housing 7a with a pivotable lid 6, which is provided for closing the dust collection chamber of the vacuum cleaner 7. This is shown in the open position (also called the service position), in which a dust collection chamber arranged inside the housing 7a is exposed. Located in the dust collection chamber is a vacuum cleaner filter bag 1 with a holding plate 2. The holding plate 2 is arranged on a holding plate receptacle 5 of the device 20. The device 20 is the previously described device for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag in a vacuum cleaner.

[0114] When the closing element 4 is in the open position, as shown in Figure 4, the closing element 4 protrudes upwards. This means that the cover 6 of the housing 7a cannot be closed because the closing element 4 prevents the cover 6 from pivoting completely, so that the cover 6 can lock with the rest of the housing 7a. The closing element 4 thus serves as a so-called suction lock. As previously explained, the closing element 4 remains in the open position if no vacuum cleaner filter bag 1 has been inserted into the vacuum cleaner 7 because the locking hook 12 cannot lock onto the holding plate 2 of the vacuum cleaner filter bag and the spring force of the spring element 3 presses the closing element into the open position. The housing 7a or the cover 6 cannot therefore be closed without a vacuum cleaner filter bag inserted.

[0115] Vacuuming is not possible with the housing 7a open (or incompletely closed) because the vacuum cleaner 7 draws ambient air into the fan through the open housing 7a and consequently fails to develop any suction power. Damage to the vacuum cleaner 7 or the fan caused by the suction of dust and dirt can be reliably prevented in this way because the vacuum cleaner cannot be used for vacuuming without the vacuum cleaner filter bag 1 inserted.

[0116] This shows the dual function of the locking element 4 on the device 20. It prevents possible damage to the vacuum cleaner 7 by ensuring that only correct / suitable vacuum cleaner filter bags are used, and also by ensuring that the vacuum cleaner 7 cannot be used without a vacuum cleaner filter bag inserted.

Claims

Claims 1 . A holding plate (2) for a vacuum cleaner filter bag (1), comprising: a passage opening (14), and a holding element (12) which protrudes from a plane defined by the passage opening (14), wherein the holding plate (2) has a maximum width perpendicular to an insertion direction (E) of the holding plate of between 55 mm and 94 mm, wherein a distance between the center point (M) of the passage opening (14) and a front edge (19) of the holding plate (2) in the insertion direction (E) is between 28 mm and 53 mm, and wherein the position of the holding element (12) fulfills one of the following criteria: a) the holding element (12) is located in a region which is arranged at a distance of between 28 mm and 40 mm around the center point (M) of the passage opening (14), and wherein the region around a center axis of the passage opening (14) perpendicular to the insertion direction (E) and in a plane of the holding plate (2) in an angular range between 0° and 180°;b) the holding element (12) is located, as viewed from the center point (M) of the through-opening (14), in a region which is arranged at a distance of between 0 mm and 20 mm along the insertion direction (E) and at a distance of between 22 mm and 45 mm in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction (E); c) the holding element (12) is located, as viewed from the center point (M) of the through-opening (14), in a region which is arranged at a distance of between 0 mm and 20 mm opposite the insertion direction (E) and at a distance of between 29 mm and 57 mm in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction (E); 2. Holding plate (2) according to claim 1, wherein the holding element (12) is designed as a locking element in the form of a locking hook, or wherein the holding element (12) is designed in the form of a clamping element which comprises at least two clamping jaws.

3. Holding plate (2) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a further holding element (12) according to one of the criteria a), b) and c), which is arranged such that the arrangement of the two holding elements (12) is symmetrical to an axis which runs parallel to the insertion direction (E).

4. Holding plate according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a recess (13) in an outer contour (9) of the holding plate (2).

5. Holding plate (2) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a first key portion (8) which is formed in a first region of an outer contour (9) of the holding plate (2), wherein the first key portion (8) comprises a plurality of projections (8a) and recesses (8b) arranged between two adjacent projections.

6. Holding plate (2) according to claim 5, further comprising a second key portion (8) which is formed in a second region of the outer contour (9) of the holding plate (2), wherein the second key portion (8) comprises a plurality of projections (8a) and recesses (8b) arranged between two adjacent projections (8a), and wherein the first region is opposite the second region with respect to an axis parallel to the insertion direction (E).

7. Holding plate (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding element (12) is formed integrally with the holding plate (2), or wherein the holding element (12) comprises a different material than the rest of the holding plate (2).

8. Device (20) for holding a vacuum cleaner filter bag (1) in a vacuum cleaner (7), the device (20) comprising: a holding plate receptacle (5) with a support surface, wherein the support surface is designed to receive a holding plate (2) according to one of the preceding claims, and a closing element (4) pivotable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closing element (4) comprises a counterpart (21) to the holding element (12) of the holding plate (2), wherein the counterpart (21) is designed to be brought into engagement with the holding element (12) of the holding plate (2) in the closed position of the closing element (4), so that the closing element (4) is held in the closed position by this engagement.

9. Device (20) according to claim 8, wherein the holding plate holder (5) further comprises a bearing element (16) which is designed to hold the holding plate (2) against a movement perpendicular to the support surface of the holding plate holder (5), and / or wherein the bearing element (16) is designed to hold the holding plate (2) against a lateral movement on the holding plate holder (5) parallel to the support surface.

10. Device (20) according to claim 8 or 9, further comprising a spring element (3) which exerts a spring force which presses the closing element (4) towards the open position.

11. Device (20) according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the holding plate receptacle (5) is designed to receive a holding plate (2) according to claim 5 or 6, and wherein the locking element (4) comprises, on a side facing the holding plate receptacle (5), an engagement element (10) which is designed to be brought into engagement with the first key portion (8) and / or second key portion (8) of the holding plate (2).

12. Device (20) according to one of claims 8 to 11 for a holding plate (2) according to one of claims 3 to 7, further comprising a further counterpart (21), wherein the further counterpart (21) is designed to be brought into engagement with the further holding element (12) of the holding plate (2) in the closed position of the closing element (4), so that the closing element (4) is held in the closed position by this engagement.

13. Device (20) according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the closing element (4) comprises a latching hook (22) on a side facing the holding plate receptacle (5), and wherein the latching hook (22) is designed to latch with the holding plate receptacle (5) in the closed position of the closing element (4).

14. Device (20) according to one of claims 9 to 13, further comprising a stop element which is a part of the closing element (4) and is designed such that a stop of the holding plate (2) on the stop element leads to a pivoting of the closing element (4) from the open position towards the closed position.

5. Vacuum cleaner (7) comprising a housing (7a) with a lid (6) and a device (20) according to one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the device (20) is arranged in a dust collection chamber of the vacuum cleaner (7), wherein the lid (6) is pivotally attached to the housing (7a) and is provided for closing the dust collection chamber, wherein the lid (6) of the housing (7a) is closable when the closing element (4) is in the closed position, and wherein the lid (6) of the housing (7a) is not closable when the closing element (4) is in the open position.

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