Cleaning station for a cleaning machine, combination of cleaning station and cleaning machine, method for cleaning a cleaning machine, and cleaning machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a cleaning station for a cleaning machine (10), wherein the cleaning machine (10) has at least a first cleaning tool (270) and a second cleaning tool (32), and the cleaning station comprises a first receptacle (316) for the first cleaning tool (270) and a second receptacle (318) for the second cleaning tool (32), wherein a fluid connection device (332) fluidically connects the first receptacle (316) and the second receptacle (318), and dirty fluid, which accumulates at the cleaning station when the first cleaning tool (32) is cleaned, flows via the fluid connection device (332) to the second receptacle (318), and wherein the second receptacle (318) is arranged and designed in such a way that dirty fluid flowing in through the cleaning machine (10) can be received by means of the second cleaning tool (32) and can be coupled into the cleaning machine (10).

Description

[0001] Cleaning station for a cleaning machine, combination of cleaning station and cleaning machine, method for cleaning a cleaning machine and cleaning machine

[0002] The invention relates to a cleaning station for a cleaning machine, wherein the cleaning machine has at least a first cleaning tool and a second cleaning tool.

[0003] The invention further relates to a combination of a cleaning station and a cleaning machine.

[0004] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for cleaning a cleaning tool of a cleaning machine at a cleaning station, wherein the cleaning machine has at least a first cleaning tool and a second cleaning tool.

[0005] The invention further relates to a cleaning machine and in particular a floor cleaning machine, comprising a cleaning head, at least one cleaning roller which is arranged on the cleaning head and is driven to rotate about a rotational axis in a cleaning operation, and a first set of charging contacts.

[0006] The CN 109316135 B, the CN 118303802 A, the CN 117958696 A and the KR 1020060081514 A reveal stations for cleaning robots

[0007] Cleaning stations are described in CN 117958671 A, CN 117958700 A, CN 117958696 A, CN 117958692 A, and CN 118303802 A. CN 117958666 A relates to a cleaning device with a first cleaning arrangement and a second cleaning arrangement, wherein the first cleaning arrangement is configured to perform a back-and-forth motion in one operating mode. The second cleaning arrangement is configured to rotate continuously in one operating mode.

[0008] German patent application no. 10 2024 109 736.1, filed by Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG on April 8, 2024, which has not been previously published, discloses a surface cleaning device comprising a cleaning head with a cleaning head body, at least one cleaning roller rotatable about an axis of rotation, a drive motor for the at least one cleaning roller, and at least one side cleaning tool rotatable and / or oscillatable about at least one axis of movement. The at least one side cleaning tool is coupled to the at least one cleaning roller via a gear mechanism, and the rotation of the at least one cleaning roller drives the movement of the at least one side cleaning tool.

[0009] The German patent application, which was also not pre-published,

[0010] Patent No. 10 2024 109 746.9 of Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG dated April 8, 2024 discloses a surface cleaning device with a cleaning head and a receptacle for a cassette for at least one cleaning roller, wherein at least one side cleaning tool is held on the cassette.

[0011] EP 3 453 302 B1 discloses a cleaning machine station for a cleaning machine, comprising a receiving chamber for a cleaning head of the cleaning machine and a discharge device for dirty fluid with one connection. The discharge device for dirty fluid includes a suction pump and / or the at least one connection of the discharge device for fluid-effective connection to the dirty fluid tank of the cleaning machine is at a lower gravitational potential than an associated drain connection of the dirty fluid tank when the cleaning machine is properly positioned and the cleaning machine is held by the cleaning machine station. The discharge device for dirty fluid has at least one connection for discharging dirty fluid from the cleaning machine station and / or includes a station dirty fluid tank.

[0012] The CN 109316135 B, the CN 219089113 U and the CN 216020828 U reveal cleaning stations for pads.

[0013] DE 10 2021 006 683 Al discloses a cleaning system for a self-driving robotic vacuum cleaner for cleaning floor surfaces and with a cleaning station.

[0014] WO 2023 / 152082 A1 discloses a surface cleaning device comprising a cleaning head, at least one cleaning roller, and a drive motor with at least one drive shaft for the at least one cleaning roller, wherein the drive motor and the at least one drive shaft are arranged on the cleaning head, and wherein the at least one drive shaft rotates about a rotational axis during operation of the surface cleaning device. The at least one cassette is detachably positioned on the cleaning head with a holding device for the at least one cleaning roller.The holding device has at least two spaced-apart stops for the at least one cleaning roller, by which the at least one cleaning roller is detachably held on the at least one cassette when the at least one cassette is removed from the cleaning head, and when the at least one cassette is arranged on the cleaning head, the at least one cleaning roller is torque-effectively coupled to the at least one drive shaft.

[0015] The invention is based on the objective of providing a cleaning station for a cleaning machine with a plurality of cleaning tools, which has a simple structural design and is easy to operate.This problem is solved in the cleaning station of the type mentioned at the outset according to the invention in that the cleaning station comprises a first receptacle for the first cleaning tool and a second receptacle for the second cleaning tool, wherein a fluid connection device fluidly connects the first receptacle and the second receptacle and dirty fluid, which accumulates during cleaning of the first cleaning tool at the cleaning station, flows via the fluid connection device to the second receptacle, and wherein the second receptacle is arranged and designed such that incoming dirty fluid can be received by the cleaning machine by means of the second cleaning tool and can be coupled (introduced) into the cleaning machine.

[0016] The cleaning machine itself serves to clean, for example, a floor surface. Through the cleaning process, the cleaning machine and especially its cleaning tools become dirty. At the cleaning station, at least the first cleaning tool is cleaned. (The cleaning station may also have additional functions, such as cleaning the second cleaning tool, charging the cleaning machine's battery, refilling a cleaning water tank on the cleaning machine, and emptying a cleaning fluid tank on the cleaning machine.)

[0017] In the cleaning station according to the invention, the dirty fluid generated during the cleaning of the first cleaning tool at the cleaning station is supplied to the second cleaning tool via the fluid connection device. The second cleaning tool receives this (liquid-containing) dirty fluid and stores it (at least as an intermediate storage medium) in the cleaning machine. The dirty fluid generated during the cleaning of the first cleaning tool at the cleaning station is thus removed by the cleaning machine and temporarily stored there. Therefore, the dirty fluid generated during the cleaning of the first cleaning tool at the cleaning station does not need to be discharged directly at the cleaning station. This allows the cleaning station to be designed in a structurally simple manner and is also easy to operate.For the first or second cleaning cycle, for example, no external drain connection is required. An operator does not need to empty the cleaning station of the dirty fluid that accumulates during the cleaning of the first cleaning tool.

[0018] In particular, it is then also possible to convey the cleaning fluid from the second intake (which accumulated during the cleaning of the first cleaning tool at the first intake) via the cleaning machine into the cleaning mesh.

[0019] Beyond the additional functions mentioned above, this allows the cleaning station to be designed and manufactured in a structurally advantageous way. It is easy to operate.

[0020] In an advantageous embodiment, the cleaning machine comprises a side cleaning tool as the first cleaning tool and a cleaning roller as the second cleaning tool. The at least one side cleaning tool is an addition to the cleaning roller to increase the cleaning width. In this context, reference is made by way of example to the two unpublished applications No. 10 2024 109 736.1 and No. 10 2024 109 746.9 (applicant in each case Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG, filing date in each case April 8, 2024). The cleaning station according to the invention allows the first cleaning tool to be effectively cleaned after floor cleaning, and the cleaning roller, as the second cleaning tool, allows the resulting dirt fluid to be effectively introduced into a dirt fluid tank of the corresponding cleaning machine.In a structurally advantageous embodiment, the second receptacle is a trough, and the second cleaning tool is a roller with textile and / or sponge coverings. Positioned in the trough, the second cleaning tool can effectively collect the dirt fluid generated during the cleaning of the first cleaning tool and feed it into the cleaning machine (into a dirt fluid tank).

[0021] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the second receptacle has a longitudinal axis, wherein, when the second cleaning tool is positioned at the second receptacle, a rotational axis of the second cleaning tool is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second receptacle; the second receptacle is closed with respect to a dirt fluid drain; the second receptacle is designed as a trough, wherein a dirt fluid supply is provided via the fluid connection device and a dirt fluid discharge is provided via the second cleaning roller; the second receptacle has a wall in the form of a cylindrical section; the second receptacle is open to a top surface which faces away from a mounting surface of the cleaning station.

[0022] If the longitudinal axis of the second intake is parallel to a rotational axis of the second cleaning tool, effective positioning at the cleaning station and effective intake of dirt fluid are achieved.

[0023] It is particularly advantageous if the second inlet is designed to be closed with respect to the discharge of the dirty fluid. The dirty fluid itself is drawn into the cleaning machine by coupling it in. This results in a structurally favorable design. No connection or similar component is required. Leakage problems are avoided.

[0024] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the second intake is designed as a trough, with the dirt fluid being supplied via the fluid connection device from the first intake and dirt fluid being discharged via the second cleaning roller.

[0025] In a structurally advantageous embodiment, the second receptacle has a wall in the form of a cylindrical section. This allows the second cleaning tool to be effectively accommodated.

[0026] In particular, the second receptacle is open at the top. This allows the second cleaning tool to be effectively positioned in the second receptacle. For example, when the cleaning machine is configured as a mobile floor cleaning machine, it can be driven up to and over the cleaning station in such a way that the second cleaning tool is positioned in the second receptacle (and the first cleaning tool in the first receptacle).

[0027] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the first cleaning tool has a compressible bristle; the first cleaning tool has a textile and / or sponge bristle; the first cleaning tool includes a pad; the first cleaning tool is circular in a cleaning area with respect to its outer circumference. If the first cleaning tool has a compressible bristle, then appropriate compression can be applied at the cleaning station to ensure effective cleaning of the first cleaning tool.

[0028] When the first cleaning tool is designed as a pad, effective side cleaning is achieved.

[0029] It is particularly advantageous if the first intake is located at a higher elevation than the second. With appropriate positioning of the cleaning station, this allows the first intake to be positioned at a higher gravitational potential than the second. This, in turn, allows the dirty fluid to flow from the first intake to the second intake under the influence of gravity.

[0030] In one embodiment, the first recess is designed as a depression on the cleaning station with a bottom and a wall. This results in a structurally simple design. Even with this simple design, effective splash protection can be achieved. Furthermore, targeted channeling of the dirty fluid to the second recess can be easily accomplished.

[0031] In a structurally simple embodiment, the base comprises at least one inclined plane towards the at least one fluid connection device. This results in simple drainage of dirty fluids, which is primarily gravity-driven.

[0032] In one embodiment, the first receptacle is circular with respect to a wall. This allows for the efficient cleaning of a circular first cleaning tool, particularly in the form of a side pad, at the cleaning station. It is especially advantageous if the first receptacle is equipped with a wiping device for removing the cleaning fluid from the first cleaning tool. This results in effective cleaning. The wiping action effectively removes the cleaning fluid from the first cleaning tool.

[0033] For the same reason, it is advantageous if the first intake is equipped with a compression device to compress the bristles of the first cleaning tool. This allows for the effective removal of dirt fluid.

[0034] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the wiping device includes at least one wiping strip for an underside of the first cleaning tool; the wiping device includes at least one wiping strip for a circumferential side of the first cleaning tool; the compression device includes at least one compression strip for an underside of the first cleaning tool; the compression device includes at least one compression strip for a circumferential side of the first cleaning tool; the wiping device and the compression device are integrally formed together.

[0035] The scraper device, which in particular has at least one scraper bar, effectively removes dirt fluid from the first cleaning tool. In particular, the compression device and the scraper device are integrally designed together, so that compression and scraping occur to achieve effective dirt fluid removal.

[0036] In one embodiment, the first intake is assigned at least one step with a scraper bar and, in particular, a scraper edge. This allows the dirt fluid to be effectively removed from the first cleaning tool. Furthermore, compression can be achieved.

[0037] It is advantageous if the step has a curved wiping edge. This results in an effective wiping function, particularly on a circular second cleaning tool. Specifically, the wiping edge on the step has at least an approximate circular shape. Preferably, the radius of this circular shape is larger than the radius of the first recess.

[0038] In one embodiment, the base of the first receptacle extends from the at least one scraper strip of the at least one step and leads to a projection of the at least one step on the base, which is spaced apart from the at least one scraper strip. This allows the first receptacle to be formed in a simple manner, essentially with an integrated scraper and compression device. Furthermore, this results in effective fluid drainage from the second receptacle to the first receptacle.

[0039] In a structurally advantageous embodiment, the base has at least one inclined plane extending from the at least one scraper strip towards the projection in order to achieve effective drainage of dirt fluid towards the second intake.

[0040] In one embodiment, a shoulder is arranged on a wall of the first receptacle, which reduces the distance to a central axis of the first receptacle. This allows for wiping and compression on a circumferential side of the at least one cleaning tool. This results in effective removal of the dirt fluid.

[0041] It is particularly advantageous if a scraper strip and / or a compression element is located on the shoulder. This results in effective removal of dirt fluid.

[0042] In one embodiment, the first receptacle has a first segment on which a scraping device is arranged. This results in a structurally advantageous embodiment.

[0043] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: a first bottom area of ​​a bottom of the first receptacle, which is a bottom area of ​​the first segment, comprises an inclined plane towards a second segment; the first segment has a segment angle in the range between 70° and 180°; a direction of rotation of the first cleaning tool, when positioned on the first receptacle, is in a direction from the scraper device or a part of the scraper device to a transition to an adjacent second segment; a first bottom area of ​​the first segment is at a higher level than a second bottom area of ​​a second segment adjacent to the first segment; a circumferential scraper bar and / or a circumferential compression element is located on the first segment; the first segment is located laterally next to the second receptacle; the first segment lies on a longitudinal axis of the second receptacle.

[0044] With these features, and a structurally simple design of the cleaning station, it is possible to effectively remove dirt fluid in the area of ​​the first intake (and the fluid connection device) and feed it to the second intake.

[0045] In particular, the first image has a second segment that is adjacent to and connected to the first segment. This results in a structurally simple design.

[0046] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: a second bottom area of ​​the second segment includes a sliding plane towards the fluid connection device; the second segment transitions into the second receptacle; the second segment is open towards the fluid connection device and / or the second receptacle; a ramp is located at a transition between the first segment and a second segment; the second segment has a segment angle which is the difference between 360° and a segment angle of the first segment.

[0047] This results in the efficient removal of dirty fluid to the second intake. It also ensures effective cleaning of the first cleaning tool at the cleaning station. It is particularly advantageous if the first intake is positioned laterally to the second intake. The first intake serves primarily to clean a side tool, acting as the first cleaning tool in relation to the second cleaning tool. Dirty fluid can thus be efficiently channeled from the first intake to the second.

[0048] It is advantageous to have a moistening device for the first cleaning roller during the cleaning process (at the cleaning station). This allows cleaning fluid to be supplied to the first cleaning tool. The resulting dirty fluid is then discharged via the second cleaning tool in the second receptacle.

[0049] In one embodiment, the humidification unit is integrated into the cleaning station. In a structurally advantageous embodiment, the humidification unit is integrated into the cleaning machine. This simplifies the design of the cleaning station.

[0050] In one embodiment, the cleaning station includes a rinsing device for flushing dirty fluid from the first intake to the second intake, wherein the rinsing device is particularly integrated into the cleaning station. The primary function of the rinsing device is to ensure that dirty fluid is rinsed from the second intake to the first intake. This minimizes, in particular, the adhesion of dirt to the cleaning station.

[0051] It is advantageous if the rinsing device includes at least one nozzle, wherein in particular a fluid jet is directed towards the at least one nozzle and in particular is directed in such a way that effective rinsing takes place towards the second intake.

[0052] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: at least one nozzle is arranged on a stage of the first receptacle and, in particular, a nozzle jet is directed towards the connecting device; at least one nozzle is arranged outside the first receptacle at a transition to the second receptacle and, in particular, a nozzle jet is directed towards the second receptacle; at least one nozzle is arranged on a wall of the first receptacle.

[0053] At least one nozzle can be effectively integrated into the cleaning station. This provides an effective rinsing option for cleaning fluid at the cleaning station.

[0054] In one embodiment, the cleaning station comprises a body on which the cleaning station can be erected (placed on a base) and on which the first and second receptacles are arranged. The body includes a ramp for the cleaning machine to bring the first cleaning tool into the first receptacle and the second cleaning tool into the second receptacle. If, for example, the cleaning machine is designed as a floor cleaning machine, it can be driven onto the cleaning station via the ramp in order to position the cleaning tools accordingly.

[0055] In one embodiment, a set of charging contacts is positioned at a height distance from a body on which the first and second receptacles are arranged. This allows a battery unit to be charged, particularly during a cleaning process for the first cleaning tool, or eliminates the need to "reposition" the battery unit before or after a cleaning process for the first cleaning tool at the cleaning station.

[0056] According to the invention, a combination of the type mentioned above is provided, with a cleaning station according to the invention, wherein the cleaning machine comprises at least a first cleaning tool and a second cleaning tool, and wherein the cleaning machine comprises a dirt fluid tank device for receiving dirt fluid.

[0057] The combination according to the invention has the advantages already explained in connection with the cleaning station according to the invention.

[0058] When the cleaning machine with the integrated dirt fluid tank is positioned at the cleaning station, dirt fluid generated during the cleaning of the first cleaning tool can be introduced into the dirt fluid tank via the second cleaning tool.

[0059] The dirt fluid tank unit can be removed from the cleaning machine and emptied, or it can be emptied at the cleaning station via the cleaning station.

[0060] In particular, the second cleaning tool on the cleaning roller is equipped with a covering made of textile material and / or a sponge material. Such a cleaning machine can be used, for example, to effectively clean a floor.

[0061] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the cleaning machine includes a scraper device for removing the cleaning fluid from the second cleaning tool and feeding it to the cleaning fluid reservoir. This results in an efficient cleaning process. For example, the scraper device has at least one strip that is immersed in a textile covering. This immersion occurs during a cleaning cycle on a surface to be cleaned. It also occurs when the cleaning fluid is removed by the second cleaning tool from the second intake of the cleaning station.

[0062] In one embodiment, the first cleaning tool is a side cleaning tool for the second cleaning tool. This allows for a larger cleaning width when cleaning a surface (during an actual cleaning operation of the cleaning machine).

[0063] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the cleaning machine includes a humidification device for the first cleaning tool, wherein in particular the humidification device is used for cleaning an area to be cleaned with the first cleaning tool, and wherein the humidification device is used for cleaning the first cleaning tool at the cleaning station; a pressing device by means of which the first cleaning tool can be pressed into the first receptacle and in particular against at least one scraper bar of the cleaning station.

[0064] The cleaning machine's humidification system allows the first cleaning tool to be moistened during a cleaning process on a surface to be cleaned, thus ensuring effective cleaning. Furthermore, the first cleaning tool can be supplied with clean cleaning fluid when it is being cleaned at the cleaning station.

[0065] The pressure device for the first cleaning tool allows it to be pressed against the surface to be cleaned during a cleaning process. The pressure device can also be used to press the first cleaning tool into its first holder during a cleaning process and, in particular, to press it against at least one wiper blade, in order to effectively remove dirt fluid from the cleaning tool during cleaning at the cleaning station.

[0066] In one embodiment, the cleaning machine is self-propelled and self-steering. It is designed as a robot, and in particular as a floor cleaning robot.

[0067] According to the invention, a method of the type mentioned at the outset is further provided, in which the cleaning machine is positioned at the cleaning station and the first cleaning tool is positioned at a first receptacle of the cleaning station and the second cleaning tool is positioned at a second receptacle of the cleaning station, in which the first cleaning tool is then moved at the cleaning station in the first receptacle relative to the cleaning station and dirt fluid is wiped off, the wiped-off dirt fluid is or is led to the second receptacle, and in which the second cleaning tool is moved in the second receptacle relative to the second receptacle and dirt fluid is picked up from the second receptacle, and in which the picked-up dirt fluid is coupled into a dirt fluid tank device of the cleaning machine.

[0068] The method according to the invention has the advantages already explained in connection with the cleaning station according to the invention.

[0069] The movement, and in particular the rotation, of the first cleaning tool at the first intake causes the cleaning fluid to detach from the first cleaning tool. The removed cleaning fluid flows to the second intake. There, the second cleaning tool, through its movement and in particular its rotation, picks up the cleaning fluid and feeds it into the cleaning fluid reservoir of the cleaning machine.

[0070] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the movement of the first cleaning tool relative to the cleaning station is carried out via the cleaning machine and is in particular a rotation; the movement of the second cleaning tool in the second holder, which is in particular a rotation, is carried out via the cleaning machine.

[0071] This results in effective removal or absorption of dirt fluid at the cleaning machine.

[0072] In a structurally advantageous embodiment, cleaning fluid is supplied to the first cleaning tool at the cleaning station, particularly via the cleaning machine. The cleaning machine, with any existing tank system for cleaning fluid, is then used to provide cleaning fluid for cleaning the first cleaning tool at the cleaning station.

[0073] Furthermore, it is advantageous if rinsing fluid is supplied to the first and / or second intake via the cleaning station. This helps to minimize dirt adhesion to the cleaning station.

[0074] According to the invention, a cleaning machine and in particular a floor cleaning machine of the type mentioned at the outset is also provided.

[0075] A second set of charging contacts is provided, wherein, with respect to a longitudinal axis of the cleaning head, at least one cleaning roller is positioned between the first set of charging contacts and the second set of charging contacts.

[0076] This allows the corresponding cleaning machine to be charged at different cleaning stations or charging stations.

[0077] When the cleaning machine is positioned at a cleaning station according to the invention to clean the first cleaning tool, a battery unit of the cleaning machine can be charged via the second set of charging contacts without the need for repositioning. This means that charging can also take place during the cleaning process, or, after a charging process, no repositioning is necessary for a cleaning process of the first cleaning tool, or, after a cleaning process of the first cleaning tool at the cleaning station, no repositioning is necessary to charge the battery unit of the cleaning machine.

[0078] It is particularly advantageous if the first set of charging contacts is arranged on an underside of the cleaning head and preferably the second set of charging contacts is arranged on a lateral side and especially at a rear end of the cleaning head.

[0079] The following description of preferred embodiments, in conjunction with the drawings, serves to explain the invention in more detail.

[0080] They show:

[0081] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a cleaning station with a cleaning machine positioned at it (in the form of a self-propelled and self-steering cleaning machine);

[0082] Figure 2 shows a bottom view of an embodiment of a cleaning machine according to Figure 1; Figure 3 shows an embodiment of a cassette with a first cleaning tool and a second cleaning tool of the cleaning machine according to Figures 1 and 2;

[0083] Figure 4A schematically shows an embodiment of a cleaning station with a positioned first cleaning tool and a second cleaning tool in a partial sectional view;

[0084] Figure 4B schematically shows the supply of dirt fluid, which accumulates during cleaning of the first cleaning tool at the cleaning station according to Figure 4A, into a dirt fluid tank device;

[0085] Figure 5A schematically shows another embodiment of a cleaning station in partial sectional view with the first cleaning tool and second cleaning tool positioned;

[0086] Figure 5B, corresponding to Figure 5A, shows the extraction of dirty fluid from the cleaning station and its coupling into a dirty fluid tank system of the cleaning machine;

[0087] Figure 6 shows a perspective partial view of the cleaning station according to Figure 1 (without cleaning machine);

[0088] Figure 7 shows a sectional view through the cleaning machine and the

[0089] Cleaning station according to Figure 1 in the area of ​​a first receptacle during a cleaning process for the first cleaning tool; Figure 8 a similar representation to Figure 6, wherein the first cleaning tool is positioned at the first receptacle of the cleaning station and the second cleaning tool is positioned at a second receptacle of the cleaning station and the rest of the cleaning machine is not shown, and wherein a circumferential scraper bar is provided;

[0090] Figure 9 shows an enlarged representation of the area of ​​the first recording according to Figure 8;

[0091] Figure 10 shows an enlarged partial view of the area of ​​the first recording according to Figure 6 with an embodiment of a rinsing device;

[0092] Figure 11 shows a similar representation to Figure 10 with a further embodiment of a rinsing device;

[0093] Figure 12 shows a similar view to Figure 6 with a further embodiment of a rinsing device;

[0094] Figure 13 shows a partial view (one tray) of another embodiment of a cleaning station (without a cleaning machine); and

[0095] Figure 14 shows an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning station with structure.

[0096] A cleaning machine, an embodiment of which is shown in Figures 1 to 3 and designated by 10, has a cleaning mode in which a surface, and in particular a floor, can be cleaned. The cleaning machine 10 has cleaning tools for this purpose. During a cleaning operation of the cleaning machine 10, the cleaning machine 10 itself becomes dirty, and in particular its cleaning tools become dirty. A cleaning station 12 is provided, which serves to clean the cleaning machine 10 and in particular one or more cleaning tools themselves – outside of a cleaning operation of the cleaning machine 10. In this context, the cleaning station 12 itself has a cleaning mode for cleaning the cleaning machine 10.

[0097] In the solution according to the invention, the cleaning station 12 is primarily intended for cleaning (at least) one cleaning tool of the cleaning machine 10. It can have additional functions, such as, in particular, charging a battery of the cleaning machine 10 when the cleaning machine 10 is positioned at the cleaning station 12, cleaning the cleaning machine 10 outside of cleaning tools (for example, rinsing the cleaning machine 10 is provided), the automatic emptying of a dirt fluid tank, filling, and in particular automatic filling, of a tank for cleaning fluid, etc.

[0098] The cleaning machine 10 is a self-propelled and self-steering floor cleaning device (Figures 1 to 3). The cleaning machine is a mopping robot for cleaning hard floors, or a vacuuming and mopping robot suitable for cleaning both textile and hard floors.

[0099] The cleaning machine 10 comprises a cleaning head 14, which in turn comprises a self-propelled and self-steering cleaning head body 16 (drive body). In cleaning operation, the cleaning machine 10 with the cleaning head 14 is placed on a surface to be cleaned (and in particular a floor).

[0100] A drive unit 18 is arranged on the cleaning head body 16. This drive unit powers wheels 20 (Figure 2). In one embodiment, a first wheel 20a and a second wheel 20b are provided, which have a common wheel axle 22. The wheels 20 are driven by the drive unit 18 to rotate about the wheel axle 22.

[0101] A support roller 24 is arranged on the cleaning head body 16 at a distance from the wheels 20. The support roller 24 has a pivot axis. It is pivotable about a steering axis perpendicular to this pivot axis. It is possible for the support roller 24 to be a passive steering roller that is not driven (and in particular, not driven to rotate about the corresponding pivot axis or to pivot about the steering axis). A change in the direction of the cleaning head 12 is achieved by controlling the wheels 20a and 20b accordingly via a control device located on the cleaning head body 16. A change in direction is achieved, in particular, by rotating the wheels 20a and 20b at different speeds.

[0102] In an alternative embodiment, the support roller 24 is provided to be an active steering roller for directional control of the cleaning head 14. The control is accordingly carried out by the control device.

[0103] The cleaning machine 10 has a main direction of travel 26. This main direction of travel 26 is a forward direction. When the cleaning head 14 (of the cleaning machine 10) travels in the main direction of travel 26, the axis of rotation of the support roller 24 is aligned parallel to the wheel axle 22. A longitudinal axis 27 of the cleaning head 14 is parallel to the main direction of travel 26.

[0104] On a flat surface on which the cleaning head 14 is placed, the placement plane coincides with a surface of the flat surface. In one embodiment, a suction operation is provided for the cleaning machine 10. (In an alternative embodiment, such a suction operation is not provided, and the corresponding components described are then not present.) For suction operation, the cleaning machine 10 comprises (at least) a brush roller 30 (hereinafter also referred to as the third cleaning tool). It further comprises another cleaning roller 32 (hereinafter also referred to as the second cleaning tool), by means of which, in particular, wet-wiping cleaning can be carried out.

[0105] During cleaning operation of the cleaning machine 10, the brush roller 30 and / or the cleaning roller 32 are positioned on the installation plane and act on the surface to be cleaned. (It is generally possible for both the brush roller 30 and the cleaning roller 32 to act on the surface to be cleaned during cleaning operation, or for only the brush roller 30 to act on the surface to be cleaned. It is also possible for only the cleaning roller 32 to act on the surface to be cleaned. In this case, it is generally provided that it is adjustable which cleaning tool acts on the surface to be cleaned.)

[0106] A navigation device 34 is arranged on the cleaning head body 16. This navigation device 34 is a sensor device and comprises at least one sensor element. The navigation device 34 is connected to the control device for controlling the operation of the cleaning machine 10. The navigation device 34 comprises, for example, one or more optical sensors, one or more wheel sensors, one or more IR sensors, and / or one or more ultrasonic sensors.

[0107] It is specifically designed that the cleaning machine 10 can independently locate the cleaning station 12 by means of the navigation device 34 and the control device. The cleaning head body 16 has a front end 36 and a rear end 38 with respect to the main direction of travel 26 (forward direction 26). A dirt fluid tank 42 and a cleaning fluid tank 44 are positioned in the area of ​​the rear end 38 (see also Figure 1).

[0108] The term "dirt fluid" refers to a fluid that is generally flowable. It can be composed of dirt particles or it can be a mixture of dirt particles and a liquid (especially water, possibly with a surfactant cleaning agent added).

[0109] The cleaning head body 16 has a bottom surface facing the installation plane. It has a top surface 48 opposite the bottom surface. The wheels 20 and the support wheels 24 are arranged on the bottom surface. The navigation device 34 is positioned at least partially on the top surface 48.

[0110] A bumper 50 is arranged on the cleaning head body 16 in the region of the front end 36, which allows collisions of the cleaning machine 10 with obstacles to be detected tactilely. The bumper 50 is or comprises one or more tactile sensor elements that are connected to the control unit via a signal.

[0111] Cliff sensors 52 are arranged on the underside of the cleaning body 36 and are connected to the control unit via a signal. These cliff sensors 52 serve to prevent the cleaning machine 10 from falling, for example in the area of ​​stairs, by detecting corresponding "cliffs".

[0112] Charging contacts 54 are also arranged on the underside of the cleaning head body 16, by means of which a battery unit 56 of the cleaning machine 10, which is located on the cleaning head body 16, can be charged when the cleaning machine 10 is positioned accordingly at the cleaning station 12. The charging contacts 54 form a first set of charging contacts.

[0113] A dirt collection container (not shown in the figures) is detachably attached to the cleaning head body 16. The dirt collection container serves primarily to collect dry dirt and is associated with the brush roller 30. The brush roller 30 is positioned on the cleaning head body 16 between the front end 36 and the rear end 38. It has an axis of rotation that is parallel to the wheel axle 22. It is driven by a drive mechanism.

[0114] In the region of the rear end 38, lateral to the cleaning head body 16 are further charging contacts 55 (see Figure 1). These further charging contacts 55 form a second set of charging contacts.

[0115] The first set of charging contacts 54 allows charging of the corresponding battery unit "from below". The second set of charging contacts 55 allows charging from the side, particularly against a wall.

[0116] The cleaning roller 32 (second cleaning tool) is positioned between the first set of charging contacts 54 and the second set of charging contacts 55 with respect to the longitudinal axis 27. The first set of charging contacts 54 is closer to the front end 36 than to the rear end 38; the second set of charging contacts 55 is closer to the rear end 38 than to the front end 36.

[0117] The battery of the cleaning machine 10 can alternatively be charged via the first set of charging contacts 54 and the second set of charging contacts 55. A connection is located on the cleaning head body 16, through which the corresponding dirt collection container is connected to a blower unit. During cleaning operation of the cleaning machine 10, the blower unit generates a suction flow. This suction flow acts on an area in which the brush roller 30 is positioned. Dry dirt is thereby drawn in and deposited in the dirt collection container. The dirt collection container can be detached from the cleaning head 14 for emptying and cleaning.

[0118] In one embodiment, side brushes 74a, 74b (fourth, fifth cleaning tool) are located on the cleaning head body 16 between the front end 36 and the brush roller 30. These extend beyond the circumference of the cleaning head body 16. Each side brush 74a, 74b is assigned its own drive motor. The side brushes 74a, 74b are each rotatable about an axis of rotation which is oriented transversely and, in particular, perpendicular to the mounting plane, or at a small acute angle, in particular less than 10°, to the mounting plane.

[0119] The cleaning head body 16 has an openable and, in particular, hinged cover 78 on its upper surface 48. The cover 78 covers the tank assembly 44 on its upper surface 48. It also covers the receptacle for the dirt collection container, which is associated with the brush roller 30. The cover 78 must be opened to remove the dirt collection container.

[0120] The cleaning head body 16 has a first lateral side 80 and an opposing second lateral side 82. The first lateral side 80 and the second lateral side 82 are, in particular, mirror-symmetrical about a central plane of the cleaning head body 16 and are located along a longitudinal axis that runs from the front end 36 to the rear end 38. The first lateral side 80 and the second lateral side 82 can be flat or curved. A receptacle 84 for the cleaning roller 32 is arranged on the cleaning head body 16 between the first lateral side 80 and the second lateral side 82. The receptacle 84 is, in particular, a receiving shaft. The receptacle is open towards the underside and thus towards the mounting plane, so that the cleaning roller 32, positioned in the receptacle 84, can act on the surface to be cleaned.

[0121] The mounting 84 is positioned in the area of ​​the rear end 38 of the cleaning head body 16. Specifically, it is positioned between the brush roller 30 and the rear end 38. It is positioned between the dirt fluid tank assembly 42 and the brush roller 30.

[0122] The receptacle 84 is closed on its first lateral side 80 by a transverse wall 86. The transverse wall 86 is, in particular, fixedly arranged on the cleaning head body 16 or is an integral part of the cleaning head body 16.

[0123] On the second lateral side 82, the receptacle 84 is open via an opening 88. A cover 90 is associated with the opening 88, by means of which the opening 88 on the second lateral side 82 can be closed.

[0124] A cassette 92 (Figure 3) is provided for positioning the cleaning roller 32 in the receptacle 84. The cassette 92 includes a holding device 94 for the cleaning roller 32. When the cassette 92 is properly positioned in the receptacle 84 of the cleaning head body 16, the cleaning roller 32 is driven by the holding device 94 to rotate about a rotation axis 96.

[0125] The axis of rotation 96 is parallel to the installation plane. It is transverse and, in particular, perpendicular to the main direction of travel 26 (forward direction 26). It is transverse and, in particular, perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the cleaning head body 16. The axis of rotation 96 is at least approximately parallel to the axis of rotation of the brush roller 30. The axis of rotation 96 is at least approximately parallel to the wheel axis 22.

[0126] A cassette holder 98 is positioned in the receptacle 84 on the cleaning head body 16 to hold the cassette 92 and thus, in turn, to hold the cleaning roller 32 in the receptacle 84. The cassette holder 98 is a non-removable component of the cleaning head 14. It can be fixedly positioned on the cleaning head 14, or, in one embodiment, movably and, in particular, pivotably positioned on the cleaning head body 16 (see below).

[0127] The cassette 92 with the cleaning roller 32 can be inserted into and removed from the cleaning head 14.

[0128] A removal and insertion direction for the cassette 92 on the cleaning head 14 is in particular transverse and preferably perpendicular to the main direction of travel 26. It is furthermore in particular parallel to the wheel axis 22. It is in particular parallel to the axis of rotation 96.

[0129] The cleaning roller 32 has a cylindrical outer shape with an axial axis parallel to the rotation axis 96.

[0130] A guide device is provided to guide the cassette 92 on the cassette holder 98 and to hold it in position in the receptacle 84. The cassette 92 can be fixed to the cleaning head 14 by means of a fixing device. In one embodiment, the fixing device is designed as a push-to-release touch latch. This is positioned in the area of ​​the transverse wall 86. This provides a push-to-release mechanism. An axial fixation (relative to the removal direction) can be achieved, and the release of the axial fixation (for removal of the cassette 92 from the receptacle 84) can be achieved by applying pressure to the cassette. Reference is made in this context to DE 10 2024 103 698.2 of 9 February 2024 and DE 10 2024 109 736.1 of 8 April 2024.

[0131] The holding device 94 has a circumferential wall 106. When the cassette 92 is properly positioned in the receptacle 84, the axis of rotation 96 is parallel to the axis of rotation 96 of the cleaning roller 32. The cleaning roller 32 can be positioned "jamming-free" on a first region of the circumferential wall 106. A second region of the circumferential wall 106 is designed as a flap 144. This flap is movably mounted on the first region of the circumferential wall 106 via a pivot bearing 146. A spring support is provided for the flap 144. The spring force of the spring assembly tends to press the flap 144 against the cleaning roller 32 and thereby hold it clamped to the holding device 94. Reference is made in this context to DE 10 2024 109 736.1 dated April 8, 2024.

[0132] The flap 144 (the second area of ​​the circumferential wall 106) is in a closed position, in which the flap 144 clamps the cleaning roller 32 against the cassette 92 (Figure 3). The spring mechanism exerts a clamping force perpendicular to the axis of rotation 96 to maintain this clamping position.

[0133] In an open position of the flap 144, which can be achieved by overcoming the spring force of the spring device, in particular by manual operation by an operator, the cleaning roller 32 can be removed from the cassette 92 (when the cassette 92 is removed from the cleaning head 14).

[0134] A scraper device 166 for the cleaning roller 32 is arranged on the flap 144.

[0135] The cleaning roller 32 is designed specifically as a wiper roller or wet cleaning roller. It has a sleeve 168, which in particular has an open interior. A bristle 172, made in particular of a textile material and, for example, a microfiber material, is attached to the sleeve 168. During the cleaning operation of the cleaning machine 10, the bristle 172 is moistened with cleaning fluid (pure water or pure water with a surfactant cleaning agent) supplied by the cleaning fluid tank 44 via a moistening device. By acting on the surface to be cleaned, dirt can be loosened and carried away by the bristle 172 of the cleaning roller 32.

[0136] It is also possible that the cleaning roller 32 is a bristle roller and therefore equipped with bristle bundles, or that the cleaning roller 32 has a hybrid covering with textile and bristle areas. It can also have sponge areas.

[0137] When the cleaning machine 10 is in operation with the flap 144 in the closed position, the scraper device 166 is pressed onto the cleaning roller 32 and, in doing so, onto the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32. The scraper device 166 is arranged and designed such that the dirt fluid is detached from the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32 and directed to a discharge device 174. The scraper device 166 has both a detachment function for the dirt fluid and a conveying function for the dirt fluid.

[0138] The scraper device 166 and the outlet device 174 are located on the flap 144. The scraper device 166 comprises at least one scraper bar 176, which, when the cleaning machine 10 is in operation with the flap 144 in the closed position (and the cassette 92 properly inserted on the cleaning head 14), penetrates the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32. The scraper bar, through which dirty fluid can be loosened and drained from the bristles 172, extends substantially over the entire length of the cleaning roller 32 (with the direction of the axis of rotation 96 as its longitudinal axis). The scraper bar 176 is arranged and designed such that it leads in a funnel shape to the outlet device 174.

[0139] The spring force of the spring assembly presses the flap 144 against the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32, and the scraper bar 176 is pressed into the bristles 172. The scraper assembly 166 is spring-loaded. This allows, for example, manufacturing tolerances or wear of the cleaning roller 32 to be compensated for, since the spring-loaded pivot bearing assembly 146 automatically ensures the correct positioning of the scraper bar 176 on the cleaning roller 32 for its function of removing and discharging dirt.

[0140] When the cassette 92 is properly positioned on the cleaning head 14, the outlet 174 (with the flap 144 closed) is positioned such that it allows the cleaning fluid to be fed directly into the cleaning fluid tank 42. Specifically, the conveyance of the cleaning fluid from the cleaning roller 32 to the tank 42 is fanless, achieved by direct coupling via a direct transport path from the cassette 92 and from the outlet 174 at the flap 144 of the cassette 92 into the tank 42.

[0141] For further details regarding cassette 92, please refer to DE 10 2024 109 736.1 dated April 8, 2024. Furthermore, please refer to DE 10 2024 103 709.1 dated February 9, 2024.

[0142] A flange 180 is arranged on the end face of the holding device 94 of the cassette 92. This flange forms a contact surface for the cleaning roller 32. When the cleaning roller 32 rests against the circumferential wall 106, it cannot fall out of the cassette 92 at the corresponding end face due to the flange 180. At the opposite end face, the cassette 92 has a pivot bearing 182. The cleaning roller 32 can be mounted onto this pivot bearing 182 in a rotationally fixed manner for rotation about the axis of rotation 96. This pivot bearing 182 is an integral part of the cassette 92 and faces away from the flange 180.

[0143] The cleaning machine 10 comprises a drive motor 200 for the rotary drive of the cleaning roller 32, rotating about the axis of rotation 96. In one embodiment, the drive motor 200 is an internal motor with respect to the cleaning roller 32 (see Figure 2). The drive motor 200 is an integral part of the cleaning head 14. It is connected to the control unit via control lines and to the battery unit 56 via an electrical connection. In particular, it is provided that, with a movable cassette holder 98, the drive motor 200 is rigidly connected to the cassette holder 98 and is movable with it.

[0144] In the case of a non-movable cassette holder 98, the drive motor 200 is arranged, for example, on the transverse wall 86 and is in particular directly or indirectly connected to it.

[0145] In one embodiment, the cassette holder 98 is movably positioned within the receptacle. Reference is made in this context to German patent application No. 10 2004 103 726.1 dated February 9, 2024. A pivot bearing device is provided by which the cassette holder 98 is pivotably mounted on the cleaning head 14. One pivot axis is parallel to the rotation axis 96. The pivot axis is parallel to a mounting plane.

[0146] The movable and spring-loaded mounting of the cleaning roller 32 via the cassette holder 98 allows for a kind of floating mounting of the cleaning roller 32 on the cleaning head 14. This makes it possible for the cleaning roller 32 to avoid obstacles by moving the cassette holder 98, as the cleaning roller 32 briefly lifts itself away from the surface to be cleaned (lifts upwards) via the cassette holder 98.

[0147] In one embodiment, the cleaning machine 10 comprises an active lifting device to lift the cassette holder 98 away from a mounting plane in one direction, such that, in particular, the cleaning roller 32 is spaced away from this mounting plane and also from the surface to be cleaned. Reference is made in this context to the

[0148] Reference is made to DE 10 2024 103 726.1 of February 9, 2024. This can be useful, for example, if only carpet cleaning is to be carried out using the brush roller 30. The lifting device allows the cleaning roller 32 to be deactivated with respect to surface contact.

[0149] The corresponding lifting movement can also be useful, for example, if the cleaning of the cleaning machine 10 (and especially the cleaning roller 32) takes place at the cleaning station 12.

[0150] The cleaning machine 10 comprises a side cleaning tool 270 (first cleaning tool) in addition to the cleaning roller 32 and the side brushes 74a, 74b (and the brush roller 30). With regard to the cleaning of the cleaning machine 10 at the cleaning station 12, the side cleaning tool 270 is referred to as the first cleaning tool and the cleaning roller 32 as the second cleaning tool.

[0151] In one embodiment, the side cleaning tool 270 is arranged on the cassette 92 and is removable from the cleaning head body 16 together with the cassette 92. Reference is made in this context to DE 10 2024 109 736 .1 dated April 8, 2024.

[0152] The side cleaning tool 270 serves for wiping the surface to be cleaned between an end face of the cleaning roller 32 and the second lateral side 82, and preferably extending beyond the second lateral side 82. The side cleaning tool 270 has an impact area 274 with which the side cleaning tool 270 acts on the surface to be cleaned. In a working position of the side cleaning tool 270, this impact area 274 is arranged with respect to the cleaning roller 32 such that it either touches the cleaning roller 32, or maintains a minimum distance of at most 1 cm in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 96, or overlaps the cleaning roller 32.

[0153] The side cleaning tool 270 is specifically designed as a wiping tool for wet wiping. In one embodiment, the contact area 274 is formed by a textile material and / or a sponge material.

[0154] The side cleaning tool 270 is arranged on the cassette 92 in such a way that, when the cassette 92 is fixed to the cleaning head body 16, the impact area 274 is positioned below the cover 90 for the opening 88 when the cover 90 is closed, and is positioned between a mounting plane and an underside of the cover 90 facing the mounting plane.

[0155] In one embodiment, the contact area 274 is designed to be self-supporting. The side cleaning tool 270 has a holding area 278 to which the contact area 274 is fixed. The side cleaning tool 270 has an underside that faces the mounting surface. This underside is formed by the contact area 274 and is spaced apart from the holding area 278, so that the holding area 278 does not act on a surface to be cleaned.

[0156] Furthermore, the side cleaning tool 270 has an outer surface 282 that projects beyond the second lateral surface 82. The outer surface 282 is also located at the impact area 274 and is spaced apart from the holding area 278. When the tool comes into contact with, for example, a wall, the impact area 274 on the outer surface 282 contacts this wall, and primarily not the holding area 278.

[0157] In particular, the impact area 274 is designed to be compressible due to its self-supporting design, so that as a rule the holding area 278 does not come into contact with the surface to be cleaned or with a wall or the like.

[0158] In one embodiment, the impact area 274 of the side cleaning tool 270 is designed as a circular disc, which is accordingly located on the holding area 278.

[0159] It is specifically provided that, during cleaning operation, the side cleaning tool 270 is driven to rotate about a rotational axis 284. The rotational axis 284 lies transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the rotational axis 96 of the cleaning roller 32; the rotational axis 284 of the first cleaning tool 270 lies transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the rotational axis 96 of the second cleaning tool 32.

[0160] In an alternative embodiment, it can be provided that the side cleaning tool 270 is operated in an oscillating manner during operation and accordingly the rotation axis 284 is an oscillation axis.

[0161] The axis of rotation 284 of the side cleaning tool 270 lies transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to a mounting plane of the cleaning machine 10 on a surface to be cleaned during a cleaning process.

[0162] In one embodiment, the side cleaning tool 270 is held on the cassette 92 via a bearing holder 286, the rotary bearing 182 being also held on the bearing holder 286.

[0163] The cleaning machine 10 has a corresponding drive for rotating the side cleaning tool 270 about the axis of rotation 284. In one embodiment, the movement of the side cleaning tool 270 about the axis of rotation 284 (rotating or oscillating) is driven by the cleaning roller 32. The primary drive for the rotation / oscillation of the side cleaning tool 270 is then the drive motor 200.

[0164] Reference is made in this context to DE 10 2024 109 736.1 of 8 April 2024.

[0165] In one embodiment, the side cleaning tool 270 is further provided with positional and vertical displacement relative to the cleaning head body 16. This is indicated in Figure 3 by the double arrow 288. This displacement is parallel to the axis of rotation 284. In this context, reference is made to DE 10 2024 109 736.1 dated April 8, 2024. By vertical displacement of the side cleaning tool 270 relative to a mounting plane, the side cleaning tool 270 can be mounted in a floating position or brought into an inactive position for a cleaning process of the cleaning machine 10 on a surface to be cleaned. It is also possible, for example, to press the side cleaning tool 270 against the cleaning station 12 for cleaning at the cleaning station 12.

[0166] The side cleaning tool 270, as the first cleaning tool, is in a sense a lateral continuation of the cleaning roller 32, as the second cleaning tool.

[0167] During cleaning operation of the cleaning machine 10 on a surface to be cleaned, the cassette 92 with the side cleaning tool 270 is fixed in the receptacle 84. The cover 90 is closed. The cleaning roller 32 rotates around the axis of rotation 96. A moistening device moistens the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32 with cleaning fluid from the tank 44. The cleaning roller 32 acts on the surface to be cleaned (in particular, a floor). Dirt is loosened, and the rotating cleaning roller 32 provides mechanical action. Dirt is loosened and carried along in the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32.

[0168] Dirty fluid is released at the scraper device 166 and coupled into the tank device 42 for dirty fluid via the outlet device 174. (Additionally, and especially prior to wet cleaning, dry cleaning can be carried out via the brush roller 30 and the side brushes 74a, 74b.)

[0169] In one embodiment, the cleaning machine 10 comprises a pump 290, which is located on the cleaning head body 16 and is associated with the side cleaning tool 270. This pump 290 is fluidly connected to the tank assembly 44 for cleaning fluid via a suction side. On the pressure side, it is connected to a nozzle assembly by means of which the side cleaning tool 270, and in particular its contact area 274, can be supplied with cleaning fluid from the tank assembly 44. This nozzle assembly is indicated by reference numeral 292 in Figure 3.

[0170] The cleaning roller 32 and the side cleaning tool 270 can then be supplied with cleaning fluid via the tank 44 for cleaning fluid, whereby the provision of pump 290 enables a separate and therefore independent supply of cleaning fluid. It is specifically provided that pump 290 is a second pump, and that a first pump is provided for the cleaning tool 32 to supply it with cleaning fluid. Reference is made in this context to DE 10 2024 109 736.1 dated April 8, 2024.

[0171] The receptacles 316 and 318 are arranged on the body 302 between the first end face 308 and the second end face 310, spaced apart from both. As described above, the cleaning station 12 can be equipped with additional devices such as a charging station for the battery unit 56, a draining device for the dirty fluid tank unit 42, a filling device for the tank unit 44 for cleaning fluid, etc. Such additional devices can, for example, be implemented as superstructures on the body 302 (see Figure 14).

[0172] In particular, such structures are then arranged on the body 302 at an area 322 (compare figure 1), which lies between the receptacles 316, 318 and the second end face 310, with respect to the longitudinal direction between the first end face 308 and the second end face 310.

[0173] When the cleaning machine 10 is properly positioned at the cleaning station 12 (after driving onto the ramp 312), then, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear end 38 of the cleaning machine 10 is aligned with the second end face 310 of the body 302; the dirt fluid tank 42 and the cleaning fluid tank 44 are aligned with the second end face 310. The front end 306 is aligned with the first end face 308 of the body 302.

[0174] It is specifically intended that, when the cleaning machine 10 is properly positioned at the cleaning station 12, it will stand completely on the body 302.

[0175] The first recess 316 is formed as a depression on the upper surface 306 of the body 302. It has a base 324, which is recessed relative to the upper surface 306 of the body 302. It also has a wall 326, which projects beyond the base 324.

[0176] The shape of the first receptacle 316 is adapted to the shape of the first cleaning tool 270 and to the impact area 174. In one embodiment, the first receptacle 316 is circular (at least in a partial area) when viewed from above (from the top 306).

[0177] The second recess 318 is designed as a trough with a longitudinal axis 328 (Figure 6) which is parallel to the transverse direction 320. The longitudinal axis 328 lies transversely and, in particular, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction between the first end face 308 and the second end face 310. The longitudinal axis 328 is transversely and, in particular, perpendicular to an approach direction 330 of the cleaning machine 10 at the approach ramp 312.

[0178] The second receptacle 318 is open towards the top 306 and closed towards the bottom 304. It serves to hold the second cleaning tool 32 in the form of the cleaning roller 32. When the cleaning roller 32 is positioned in the second receptacle 318, the axis of rotation 96 is at least approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis 328.

[0179] The second receptacle 318 (and the first receptacle 316) are arranged in relation to the access ramp 312 such that when the cleaning machine 10 drives up the access ramp 312, the first cleaning tool 270 is positioned in the first receptacle 316, and the second cleaning tool 32 is positioned in the second receptacle 318.

[0180] The first intake 316 and the second intake 318 are connected to each other via a fluid connection device 332. Fluid (especially contaminated fluid) can flow from the first intake 316 to the first second intake 318 via the fluid connection device 332.

[0181] With respect to a height direction 334 of the body 302, the first image 316 lies at least partially above the second image 318. If the cleaning station 12 with its body 302 is positioned horizontally with respect to the direction of gravity, then the first image 316 lies vertically above the second image 318. This allows fluid to flow from the first image 316 to the second image 318 under gravitational influence.

[0182] The second receptacle 318 has the fluid connection device 332 as its only "fluid connection". The second receptacle 318 is formed on an otherwise closed basin which has no discharge connection. As will be explained in more detail below, fluid is extracted from the second receptacle 318 via the cleaning roller 32 (the second cleaning tool 32) positioned therein. Pumping out the second receptacle 318, for example, is not provided for.

[0183] The second receptacle 318 is adapted to the shape of the second cleaning tool 32 by means of a wall 336. In particular, the wall 336 is designed as a cylindrical section.

[0184] (Contaminated) liquid, which is coupled into the second receptacle 318 via the fluid connection device 332 and is drained from the first receptacle 316 via the fluid connection device 332, is picked up in the second receptacle 318 by the cleaning machine 10 with the cleaning roller 32. Accordingly, it is advantageous if, with correct positioning of the second cleaning tool 32 in the second receptacle 318 (after the cleaning machine 10 has moved onto the cleaning station 12), there is a small gap between the wall 336 and the covering of the cleaning roller 32, and in particular, there is contact between the wall 336 at least at a base area of ​​the wall 336 and the cleaning roller 32.

[0185] In one embodiment, the first

[0186] Intake 316 transitions into the second intake 318. This area 338 is the fluid connection device 332 or forms part of this fluid connection device 332.

[0187] The first intake 316 is associated with a scraper 340, which serves to scrape off dirt fluid from the first cleaning tool 270 and in particular from the contact area 274. Furthermore, the first intake 316 is associated with a compression device 342, which serves to compress the contact area 274 of the first cleaning tool 270 in order to effect or improve the removal of dirt fluid.

[0188] It is specifically provided that the scraping device 340 and the compression device 342 are integrally designed together and form a single unit.

[0189] In one embodiment, the first intake 316 comprises a first segment 344. In the illustrated embodiment, the first segment has a segment angle 346 (see also Figure 10) of approximately 90°. A second segment 348, which has a segment angle of approximately 180°, adjoins the first segment.

[0190] At a transition 350 from the first segment 344 to the second segment 348, there is a ramp with an inclined plane 352 (with respect to an envelope). Dirty fluid can flow from the first segment 344 into the second segment 348 via this inclined plane 352.

[0191] A ground area of ​​the first segment 344 lies at a higher level relative to the elevation direction 334 than a ground area of ​​the second segment 348.

[0192] A third segment 354 lies between the first segment 344 and the second segment 348. The first receptacle 316 transitions into the second receptacle 318 at the third segment 354. The third segment 354 forms at least part of the fluid connection device 332.

[0193] The third segment 354 complements the first segment 344 and the second segment 348 to form a 360° angle.

[0194] The second segment 348 has an inclined plane towards the third segment 354. The third segment 354 is also formed as an inclined plane.

[0195] This ensures the flow of liquid from the first intake 316 to the second intake 318.

[0196] A step 356 is formed at the transition from the third segment 354 to the first segment 344. This step 356 has an edge 358. The edge 358, or rather the area around the edge 358, forms a scraper strip for the scraper device 340 and a compression strip for the compression device 352. At the step 356, with respect to the top surface 306 and parallel to the vertical direction 334 extending from the third segment 354 to the first segment 344, the height of the receptacle 316 decreases (as a recess on the top surface 306).

[0197] This allows for compression of the contact area 274 of the first cleaning tool 270 with respect to its underside (compare Figures 4A, 5A). Furthermore, this achieves the wiping function. Dirty fluid is, in effect, squeezed out and wiped off, and then fed via the corresponding bottom areas of the second receptacle 318.

[0198] In one embodiment, the step 356 is curved at edge 358 (Figure 8). The curvature can be circular. Relative to the second mounting 318 (i.e., as seen from the second mounting 318), the curvature is concave. Edge 358 can, in particular, have a circular shape. A corresponding

[0199] The circle radius is larger than the circle radius for the first image 316.

[0200] In one embodiment, the wiping device 340 and the compression device 342 further comprise a wiping bar 360, which also serves as a compression bar, for the comprehensive compression and wiping of the impact area 274 and the first cleaning tool 270 (Figures 8, 9).

[0201] The 360° scraper bar is located particularly at step 356.

[0202] In the area of ​​the scraper bar 360, the diameter of the first inlet 316 is reduced. This also compresses the contact area 274 of the cleaning tool 270 with respect to the outer side 282, resulting in scraping.

[0203] Stage 356, as shown in Figures 4A and 5A, serves to compress in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 284.

[0204] The scraper bar 360 serves to compress the impact area 274 of the cleaning tool 270 in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation 284.

[0205] The cleaning process according to the invention for the first cleaning tool 270 is carried out as follows:

[0206] The cleaning machine 10 is positioned at the cleaning station 12. The positioning is such that the first cleaning tool 270 (the side cleaning tool 270, which includes a pad) is positioned in the first receptacle 316 and immersed into it. The second cleaning tool 32 (the cleaning roller 32) is positioned in the second receptacle 318 and immersed into the corresponding recess or tray. For a cleaning operation, the cleaning tool 270 is also actively pressed into the first receptacle 316 by the positioning device of the cleaning tool 270.

[0207] This results in a partial compression of the impact area 274, particularly with respect to the vertical direction 334 (compare Figures 4A, 4B, Figure 7).

[0208] During the cleaning process for the first cleaning tool 270, it is rotated around the axis of rotation 96 by the cleaning machine 10. The rotation is such that a specific area of ​​the contact area 274 of the cleaning tool 270 is rotated from the third segment 354 at the step to the first segment 344 and then to the second segment 348. This results in the sequential compression of all areas of the contact area 270 with respect to the vertical direction 334. The entire contact area 274 is rotated past the step 356 with respect to its underside and is thereby compressed.

[0209] Furthermore, compression takes place at the scraper bar 360 over the entire circumference of the impact area 274, and in successive stages.

[0210] Cleaning fluid is supplied to the first cleaning tool 270 at the cleaning station 12. In one embodiment, the cleaning fluid is supplied via the nozzle assembly 292 of the cleaning machine 10 from the cleaning fluid tank assembly 44. This allows for a simple design of the cleaning station 12.

[0211] Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible for the cleaning fluid for cleaning the cleaning tool 270 at the cleaning station 12 to be provided by the cleaning station 12 itself. In particular, during a cleaning process at the cleaning station 12, the cleaning tool 270 is supplied with fluid at its contact area 274 via a top surface of the contact area 274 (compare Figures 4A, 5A, 7, 8).

[0212] At the contact area 274 of the first cleaning tool 270, dirty fluid containing liquid is detached. This dirty fluid collects at the first receptacle 316 and is discharged via the fluid connection device 332 into the second receptacle 318.

[0213] In the second intake 318, the second cleaning tool 32 (the cleaning roller 32) rotates on the cleaning machine 10 and thereby collects dirty fluid, and in particular essentially all of the dirty fluid, which comes from the first intake 316. It is coupled via the scraper device 166 and the outlet device 174 into the tank device 42 for dirty fluid of the cleaning machine 10.

[0214] Dirty fluid, which is detached from the first cleaning tool 270 during the cleaning of the first cleaning tool 270, does not remain at the cleaning station 12, but is taken up by the cleaning machine 10 in the dirt fluid tank device 42.

[0215] From there, pumping can be carried out via the cleaning station 12, for example, or an operator can empty the dirt fluid tank unit 42 "manually".

[0216] For cleaning station 12, no external connection for draining dirty fluid from the cleaning station 12 is required with respect to the first inlet 316 and the second inlet 318. This allows for a structurally advantageous design and, in particular, a manufacturingly simple design. It can be made liquid-tight. The cleaning machine 10 handles both the intake of dirty fluid during the cleaning of the first cleaning tool 270 and the discharge of dirty fluid at cleaning station 12. The drive for the discharge of this dirty fluid is the drive already present on the cleaning machine 10 for the cleaning roller 32, namely the drive motor 200.

[0217] In an advantageous embodiment, the provision of cleaning fluid for cleaning the first cleaning tool 270 at the cleaning station 12 is also carried out by the cleaning machine 10 via the nozzle device 292 and via cleaning fluid from the tank device for cleaning fluid, which is a tank device 44 of the cleaning machine 10.

[0218] Figures 4A and 4B illustrate the corresponding steps. At the first intake 316, the dirty fluid is detached from the first cleaning tool 270 and flows through a dirty fluid line via the fluid connection device 332 to the second intake 318 (Figure 4B). In the second intake 318, the second cleaning tool 32 of the cleaning machine 10 receives the dirty fluid, and in particular the majority of it, and connects it to its dirty fluid tank 42.

[0219] In one embodiment, an additional rinsing of the first receptacle 316 with cleaning fluid is provided. For this purpose, a rinsing device 362 with at least one nozzle 364 is provided (Figure 5A). This rinsing device 362 serves to spray the first receptacle 316 with cleaning fluid as a rinsing fluid, in order to largely prevent the adhesion of dirt particles.

[0220] In one embodiment (Figure 10), the flushing device 362 comprises a nozzle 366, which is arranged at the transition 350 between the first segment 344 and the second segment 348, and is directed towards the step 356. In particular, the nozzle 366 is arranged such that a nozzle jet 368 containing flushing fluid is directed towards the fluid connection device 332.

[0221] In a further embodiment of a flushing device 362 (Figure 11), a nozzle 370 is provided, which is arranged in the area of ​​the stage 356. This nozzle 370 has a nozzle jet 372, which is directed towards the second receptacle 318.

[0222] In another embodiment (Figure 12), a flushing device 362 is provided with a nozzle 374. This nozzle 374 is positioned on the stage 356. The nozzle 374 is oriented such that a nozzle jet 378 is directed towards the fluid connection device 332.

[0223] In the embodiment shown in Figure 12, the segment division differs from that described above. The step 356 (which is radially oriented and, in particular, curved) is located further away from the second receptacle 318 than in the embodiment shown in Figure 11.

[0224] Multiple nozzles can also be provided. The corresponding arrangements shown in Figures 10, 11, and 12 can also be combined.

[0225] The rinsing fluid for the rinsing unit 362 can be supplied from the cleaning machine 10 and, in particular, from the tank unit 44. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the rinsing fluid to be supplied from a corresponding tank unit of the cleaning station 12 (not shown in the drawings).

[0226] In another embodiment of a cleaning station, a tray 380 is provided (Figure 13), which is detachably or permanently connected to the body 302 (not shown in Figure 13). The tray 380 comprises a first receptacle 382 for the first cleaning tool 270 and a second receptacle 384 for the second cleaning tool 32. The second receptacle 384 is correspondingly trough-shaped, and the first receptacle 382 is correspondingly circular.

[0227] The first intake 382 is located at a higher level than the first intake 384. A fluid connection device 386 is provided for a fluid-effective connection between the first intake 382 and the second intake 384.

[0228] Contaminated fluid can flow from the first intake 382 via the fluid connection device 386 and into the second intake 384. From there, it can be picked up again by the second cleaning tool 32.

[0229] The first recording 382 includes a step 388. A ridge 390 is attached to the step. This ridge 390 is a raised section on the base 392 of the first recording. The ridge 390 acts as a scraper and compression strip.

[0230] During the cleaning process of the first cleaning tool 270, it must be guided past the bridge 390. Due to the upward projection from the base 392, greater compression occurs than if only an edge were present. Dirty fluid is thus wiped from the contact area 274 of the first cleaning tool 270.

[0231] Otherwise, a cleaning station with the 380 tray works as described above.

[0232] In one embodiment of a cleaning station 400 (Figure 14), the body 302 is provided with the first receptacle 316 and the second receptacle 318 as described above. A superstructure 402 is attached to the area 322. The superstructure 402 has an area 404 through which the superstructure 402 is connected to the body 302. An area 406 is attached to the area 404. This area 406 is spaced apart from the body 302.

[0233] A recess 408 is formed between the body 302 and the area 406. This recess 408 is bounded by a wall 410 of the area 404.

[0234] In one embodiment, a discharge opening for the dirty fluid tank 42 is located at area 406. Alternatively or additionally, a discharge opening for a dry dirt collection container is arranged at area 406. Connections for the cleaning machine 10 are then arranged at area 406 or area 404 (with a corresponding fluid-acting connection).

[0235] Charging contacts 412 of the cleaning station 400 are located on the wall 410 at a height distance from the body 302. These charging contacts 412 are accordingly connected to a charging device of the cleaning station 400.

[0236] The charging contacts 412 are used to contact the second set of charging contacts 55 of the cleaning machine 10.

[0237] If the cleaning machine 10 is properly positioned at the cleaning station 400 and the second tool 270 is positioned in the first holder 316 and the first tool 32 is positioned in the second holder 318, then there is also an electrical contact connection between charging contacts 412 and the second set of charging contacts 55.

[0238] This makes it possible to charge the battery of the cleaning machine 10 during the cleaning process for the first cleaning tool 270 at the cleaning station 400, or to charge it before or after this cleaning process, without requiring any movement and, in particular, without requiring the cleaning machine 10 to be repositioned at the cleaning station 400. The first set of charging contacts 54 can, for example, be used at a cleaning station or charging station where no configuration corresponding to configuration 402 is provided.

[0239] Reference symbol list

[0240] Cleaning machine

[0241] Cleaning station

[0242] Cleaning head

[0243] Cleaning head body

[0244] Drive system

[0245] Wheels a First wheel b Second wheel

[0246] wheel axle

[0247] support roller

[0248] Main direction of travel

[0249] Longitudinal axis

[0250] brush roller

[0251] Cleaning roller (second cleaning tool)

[0252] Navigation system

[0253] Front end

[0254] Rear end

[0255] Dirty fluid tank system

[0256] Tank system for cleaning fluid

[0257] Top

[0258] Impactor

[0259] Cliff sensor

[0260] Charging contacts, additional charging contacts

[0261] Battery unit a Side brush b Side brush

[0262] Lid

[0263] First lateral side Second lateral side

[0264] Recording

[0265] transverse wall

[0266] opening

[0267] Lid

[0268] cassette

[0269] Holding device

[0270] axis of rotation

[0271] Cassette holder

[0272] perimeter wall

[0273] flap

[0274] Swivel bearing assembly

[0275] Scraper device

[0276] sleeve

[0277] estuary

[0278] scraper strip

[0279] wheel flange

[0280] pivot bearing

[0281] drive motor

[0282] Side cleaning tool (first cleaning tool)

[0283] Impact area

[0284] Stopping area

[0285] Outside

[0286] axis of rotation

[0287] Warehouse holder

[0288] Double arrow

[0289] pump

[0290] Nozzle assembly

[0291] Body

[0292] bottom

[0293] Top

[0294] First end face

[0295] Second end of the ramp

[0296] web

[0297] First recording

[0298] Second recording

[0299] transverse direction

[0300] Area

[0301] Floor

[0302] wall

[0303] Longitudinal axis

[0304] Approach direction

[0305] Fluid connection device

[0306] Altitude

[0307] wall

[0308] Area

[0309] Scraper device

[0310] Compression device

[0311] First segment

[0312] Segment angle

[0313] Second segment

[0314] transition

[0315] Inclined plane

[0316] Third segment

[0317] Level

[0318] Edge (scraper strip / compression strip)

[0319] scraper bar

[0320] Flushing device

[0321] nozzle

[0322] nozzle

[0323] jet stream

[0324] nozzle

[0325] jet stream

[0326] nozzle

[0327] Jet spray bowl

[0328] First recording

[0329] Second recording

[0330] Fluid connection device

[0331] Level

[0332] web

[0333] Floor

[0334] Cleaning station

[0335] Construction

[0336] Area

[0337] Area

[0338] Exclusion

[0339] wall

[0340] Charging contacts

Claims

Patent claims 1. Cleaning station for a cleaning machine (10), wherein the cleaning machine (10) has at least one first cleaning tool (270) and a second cleaning tool (32), and the cleaning station comprises a first receptacle (316) for the first cleaning tool (270) and a second receptacle (318) for the second cleaning tool (32), wherein a fluid connection device (332) fluidly connects the first receptacle (316) and the second receptacle (318), and dirty fluid which accumulates during cleaning of the first cleaning tool (32) at the cleaning station flows via the fluid connection device (332) to the second receptacle (318), and wherein the second receptacle (318) is arranged and designed such that incoming dirty fluid can be received by the cleaning machine (10) by means of the second cleaning tool (32) and can be coupled into the cleaning machine (10).

2. Cleaning station according to claim 1, characterized in that the second receptacle (318) is a trough and the second cleaning tool (32) is a roller with a textile covering and / or sponge covering.

3. Cleaning station according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by at least one of the following: the second receptacle (318) has a longitudinal axis, wherein, when the second cleaning tool (32) is positioned on the second receptacle (318), a rotational axis (96) of the second cleaning tool (32) is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second receptacle (318); The second intake (318) is designed to be closed with respect to a dirty fluid outflow; the second intake (318) is designed as a trough, wherein a dirty fluid supply is provided via the fluid connection device (332) and a dirty fluid discharge is provided via the second cleaning tool (32); the second intake (318) has a wall (336) in the form of a cylindrical section; the second intake (318) is open to a top side which faces away from a mounting surface of the cleaning station.

4. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one of the following: the first cleaning tool (270) has a compressible bristle (274); the first cleaning tool (270) has a textile bristle and / or sponge bristle; the first cleaning tool (270) comprises a pad; the first cleaning tool (270) is circular at a cleaning area with respect to an outer circumference.

5. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first intake (316) is located at a higher level than the second intake (318).

6. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first receptacle (316) is designed as a recess on the cleaning station with a bottom (324) and a wall (336).

7. Cleaning station according to claim 6, characterized in that the floor (324) comprises at least one inclined plane (352) towards the at least one fluid connection device (332).

8. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first intake (316) has a circular shape with respect to a wall (326).

9. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first receiving (316) is associated with a scraping device (340) for scraping off dirt fluid from the first cleaning tool (270).

10. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first intake (316) is associated with a compression device (342) for compressing a packing (274) of the first cleaning tool (270).

11. Cleaning station according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by at least one of the following: the wiping device (340) comprises at least one wiping strip (358) for an underside of the first cleaning tool (270); the wiping device (340) comprises at least one wiping strip (360) for a circumferential side of the first cleaning tool (270); The compression device (342) comprises at least one compression bar (358) for a bottom side of the first cleaning tool (270); the compression device (342) comprises at least one compression bar (358) for a circumferential side of the first cleaning tool (270); the wiper device (340) and the compression device (342) are integrally formed together.

12. Cleaning station according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the first intake (316) is assigned at least one step (356) with a scraper bar (358) and in particular a scraper edge. 13 Cleaning station according to claim 12, characterized in that the step (356) has a curved scraper edge (358).

14. Cleaning station according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that a floor (324) of the first intake (316) extends from the at least one scraper bar (358) of the at least one step (356) and leads to a projection of the at least one step (356) on the floor (324), which is spaced apart from the at least one scraper bar (358).

15. Cleaning station according to claim 14, characterized in that the floor (324) has at least one inclined plane (352) starting from the at least one scraper bar (358) towards the base.

16. Cleaning station according to one of claims 9 to 15, characterized in that a step is arranged on a wall (326) of the first receptacle (316) which causes a reduction in distance to a central axis of the first receptacle (316).

17. Cleaning station according to claim 16, characterized in that a scraper bar (360) and / or a compression element (360) is located on the step.

18. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first receiving (316) has a first segment (344) on which a scraping device (340) is arranged.

19. Cleaning station according to claim 17, characterized by at least one of the following: a first bottom area of ​​a bottom (324) of the first receptacle (316), which is a bottom area of ​​the first segment (344), comprises an inclined plane (352) towards a second segment (348); the first segment (344) has a segment angle in the range between 70° and 180°; a direction of rotation of the first cleaning tool (270) when positioned at the first receptacle (316) is in a direction from the scraper device (340) or a part of the scraper device to a transition to an adjacent second segment (348); A first floor area of ​​the first segment (344) lies at a higher level than a second floor area of ​​a second segment (348) adjacent to the first segment; a circumferential scraper strip (360) and / or a circumferential compression element (360) is attached to the first segment (344); the first segment (344) is located laterally next to the second receptacle (318); the first segment (344) lies on a longitudinal axis of the second receptacle (318).

20. Cleaning station according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that the first intake (316) has a second segment (348) which is adjacent to the first segment (344) and connects to the first segment (344).

21. Cleaning station according to claim 20, characterized by at least one of the following: a second bottom area of ​​the second segment (348) comprises a sliding plane towards the fluid connection device (332); the second segment (348) transitions into the second receptacle (318); the second segment (348) is open towards the fluid connection device (332) and / or towards the second receptacle (318); a ramp (352) is located at a transition between the first segment (344) and a second segment (348); The second segment (348) has a segment angle which is the difference between 360° and a segment angle of the first segment (344).

22. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first receptacle (316) is arranged laterally to the second receptacle (318).

23. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a humidification device for the first cleaning roller (270) during a cleaning process for the first cleaning roller (270).

24. Cleaning station according to claim 23, characterized in that the humidification device is integrated into the cleaning machine (10).

25. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a rinsing device (362) for rinsing dirty fluid from the first intake (316) to the second intake (318), wherein in particular the rinsing device (362) is integrated into the cleaning station.

26. Cleaning station according to claim 25, characterized in that the rinsing device (362) comprises at least one nozzle (366; 370; 374), wherein in particular a fluid jet (368; 372; 378) is directed towards the at least one nozzle (366; 370; 374).

27. Cleaning station according to claim 26, characterized by at least one of the following: at least one nozzle (366) is arranged on a stage (356) of the first intake (316) and in particular a nozzle jet (368) is directed towards the fluid connection device (332); at least one nozzle (370) is arranged outside the first receptacle (316) at a transition to the second receptacle (318) and in particular a nozzle jet (372) is directed towards the second receptacle (318); at least one nozzle (374) is arranged on a wall (326) of the first receptacle (316).

28. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a body (302) on which the cleaning station can be set up, and on which the first receptacle (316) and the second receptacle (318) are arranged, wherein the body (302) comprises a ramp (312) for the cleaning machine (10) for bringing the first cleaning tool (270) into the first receptacle (316) and the second cleaning tool (32) into the second receptacle (318).

29. Cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a body (302) on which the cleaning station can be set up and on which the first receptacle (316) and the second receptacle (318) are arranged, and a set of charging contacts (412) which are spaced at a height distance from the body (302).

30. Combination of a cleaning station and a cleaning machine (10), with a cleaning station according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning machine (10) comprises at least a first cleaning tool (270) and a second cleaning tool (32), and wherein the cleaning machine (10) comprises a dirt fluid tank device (42) for receiving dirt fluid.

31. Combination according to claim 30, characterized in that the second cleaning tool (32) is a cleaning roller with a covering of textile material and / or a sponge material.

32. Combination according to claim 30 or 31, characterized in that the cleaning machine (10) comprises a scraper device (166) for scraping off dirt fluid from the second cleaning tool (32) and for supplying it to the dirt fluid tank device (42).

33. Combination according to one of claims 30 to 32, characterized in that the first cleaning tool (270) is a side cleaning tool for the second cleaning tool (32).

34. Combination according to one of claims 30 to 33, characterized by at least one of the following: the cleaning machine (10) comprises a humidification device for the first cleaning tool (270), wherein in particular the humidification device is used for cleaning an area to be cleaned with the first cleaning tool (270), and wherein the humidification device is used for cleaning the first cleaning tool (270) at the cleaning station; a pressing device by means of which the first cleaning tool (270) can be pressed into the first receptacle (316) and in particular against at least one scraper bar (358) of the cleaning station.

35. Combination according to one of claims 30 to 34, characterized in that the cleaning machine (10) is self-propelled and self-steering.

36. Method for cleaning a cleaning tool (270) of a cleaning machine (10) at a cleaning station (12), wherein the cleaning machine (10) has at least a first cleaning tool (270) and a second cleaning tool (32), wherein the cleaning machine (10) is positioned at the cleaning station (12) and the first cleaning tool (270) is positioned at a first receptacle (316) of the cleaning station (12) and the second cleaning tool (32) is positioned at a second receptacle (318) of the cleaning station (12), wherein the first cleaning tool (270) is then moved at the cleaning station (12) in the first receptacle (316) relative to the cleaning station (12) and dirt fluid is wiped off, the wiped-off dirt fluid is or is directed to the second receptacle (318),and in which the second cleaning tool (32) is moved in the second receptacle (318) relative to the second receptacle (318) and thereby dirt fluid is taken up from the second receptacle (318), and in which the taken-up dirt fluid is coupled into a dirt fluid tank device (42) of the cleaning machine (10).

37. Method according to claim 36, characterized by at least one of the following: the movement of the first cleaning tool (270) relative to the cleaning station (12) is carried out via the cleaning machine (10) and is in particular a rotation; the movement of the second cleaning tool (32) in the second receptacle (318), which is in particular a rotation, is carried out via the cleaning machine (10).

38. Method according to claim 36 or 37, characterized in that cleaning fluid is supplied to the first cleaning tool (270) at the cleaning station (12), in particular via the cleaning machine (10).

39. Method according to one of claims 36 to 38, characterized in that rinsing fluid for the first intake (316) and / or the second intake (318) is supplied to the first intake (316) and / or the second intake (318) via the cleaning station (12).

40. Cleaning machine comprising a cleaning head (14), at least one cleaning roller (32) which is arranged on the cleaning head (14) and is driven to rotate about a rotational axis (96) in a cleaning operation, and a first set of charging contacts (54) which are arranged on the cleaning head (14), characterized in that a second set of charging contacts (55) is arranged on the cleaning head (14), wherein, with respect to a longitudinal axis (27) of the cleaning head (14), the at least one cleaning roller (32) is positioned between the first set of charging contacts (54) and the second set of charging contacts (55).

41. Cleaning machine according to claim 40, characterized in that the first set of charging contacts (54) is positioned on an underside of the cleaning head (14).

42. Cleaning machine according to claim 40 or 41, characterized in that the second set of charging contacts (55) is positioned on a lateral side and in particular on a rear end (38) of the cleaning head (14).

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