Surface-cleaning appliance, and method for operating a surface-cleaning appliance

Abstract

The invention relates to a surface-cleaning appliance comprising: a cleaning head (14); at least one cleaning roller (32) which is rotatable about a rotational axis (96); a drive motor (200) for the at least one cleaning roller (32); and a wetting device (302) for wetting the at least one cleaning roller (32) with cleaning fluid, wherein: the wetting device (302) comprises a nozzle device (340) having a plurality of nozzles (344); the wetting device (302) comprises a channel device (304) on which the nozzle device (340) is arranged; the channel device (304) has a multi-part design comprising a channel cover (308) and a channel body (306); and the channel cover (308) is removably fixed to the channel body (306).

Description

[0001] A 501 228 t Applicant: Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG

[0002] August 7, 2025 Alfred-Kärcher-Strasse 28 - 40 t-248 71364 Winnenden

[0003] Surface cleaning device and method for operating a surface cleaning device

[0004] The invention relates to a surface cleaning device comprising a cleaning head, at least one cleaning roller rotatable about a rotational axis, a drive motor for the at least one cleaning roller, and a humidification device for moistening the at least one cleaning roller with cleaning fluid, wherein the humidification device comprises a nozzle device with a plurality of nozzles.

[0005] The invention further relates to a method for operating a surface cleaning device which, in operation, acts on a surface to be cleaned with a cleaning roller rotating about a rotational axis and in which the cleaning roller is supplied with cleaning fluid via a nozzle device.

[0006] DE 10 2022 124 120 Al discloses a floor cleaning device.

[0007] The WO 2024 / 165209 Al reveals a cleaning system.

[0008] US patent 2024 / 0197132 Al discloses a surface cleaning device.

[0009] CN 109008838 A reveals a carpet cleaning machine.

[0010] US Patent 5,657,504 discloses a mobile mop with roller, attachment element and dirt collection device.

[0011] CN 211212976 U, DE 10 2021 103 489 Al, CN 217772224 U, CN 218186691U and CN 118252428 A disclose cleaning machines or parts thereof. A 501 228 t

[0012] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0013] - 2 -

[0014] CN 117958666 A relates to a cleaning device comprising 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.

[0015] 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.

[0016] The German patent application, which was also not pre-published,

[0017] 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.

[0018] EP 3 453 302 Bl 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 with the dirty fluid tank of the cleaning machine is located at a lower gravitational potential than an associated drain connection of the dirty fluid tank when the cleaning machine station is properly positioned.

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[0021] The cleaning machine is located at 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.

[0022] The CN 109316135 B, the CN 219089113 U and the CN 216020828 U reveal cleaning stations for pads.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] The invention is based on the objective of providing a surface cleaning device of the type mentioned above, which can be cleaned effectively. A 501 228 t

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[0028] This problem is solved in the surface cleaning device mentioned at the outset according to the invention in that the humidification device has a channel device on which the nozzle device is arranged, that the channel device is designed in multiple parts with a channel cover and a channel body, and that the channel cover is detachably fixed to the channel body.

[0029] The removable manhole cover allows access to the inside of the sewer system, making it easy to clean.

[0030] According to the invention, a closed channel system with a channel body and channel cover is provided, which enables an effective supply of cleaning fluid to the at least one cleaning roller. Removing the channel cover from the channel body allows for effective cleaning of the channel system (outside of a cleaning operation of the surface cleaning device).

[0031] The nozzles of the nozzle assembly can be designed in different ways. For example, they can be designed as openings ("holes") in the ductwork and, for example, in the duct body or the manhole cover (or another part of the ductwork). They can also be designed as tubes that protrude beyond a base.

[0032] The aforementioned problem is solved alternatively or in combination according to the invention in that the nozzles of the nozzle assembly are formed by tubes which are arranged on a base and each have a nozzle opening towards the at least one cleaning roller, and that, during rotation of the at least one cleaning roller, the at least one cleaning roller passes by the tubes at least in the area of ​​the respective opening. A 501 228 t

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[0035] Cleaning fluid is supplied to at least one cleaning roller via the tubes during operation. This cleaning roller makes contact with the tubes, at least in one of their openings. This effectively cleans the tubes, preventing blockages and similar issues. In particular, it also helps to remove any limescale deposits. Effective pressure can be built up to supply the cleaning fluid. Furthermore, it helps to compensate for roller wear.

[0036] The tubes effectively extend the nozzles of the nozzle assembly towards the at least one cleaning roller, and the at least one cleaning roller rubs against the tubes during operation, meaning it makes contact with them as it passes by.

[0037] The nozzle assembly with the tubes can be implemented on a channel assembly which is designed as a single piece, or which, as above, is designed as a multi-part assembly with a removable cover.

[0038] It is advantageous if the base with the nozzle assembly is made of a soft material. In particular, it is a rubber element, for example, made of silicone or EPDM. This allows for easy removal and cleaning. Specifically, the base with the nozzle assembly can be designed as a manhole cover that is removable and can be fixed in place.

[0039] In an advantageous embodiment, the base with the nozzle assembly forms a manhole cover for a channel assembly. This allows the nozzle assembly to be easily integrated into the channel assembly. In one embodiment, a base with tubes forms the nozzle assembly and the manhole cover. If the base with the nozzle assembly forms a manhole cover, then this manhole cover is positioned facing the at least one cleaning roller. A 501 228 t

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[0042] It is particularly advantageous if the manhole cover is a soft component, especially a rubber element made of materials such as silicone or EPDM. This allows for easy fixation to the manhole body by pressing it into a contour. Similarly, removal is also simple.

[0043] It is particularly advantageous if the channel assembly is arranged on a holding device for the at least one cleaning roller, and / or on a cleaning head body of the cleaning head. This allows cleaning fluid to be efficiently supplied to the at least one cleaning roller during the cleaning operation of the surface cleaning device. The holding device can, for example, be removable as part of a cassette attached to a cleaning head body, or it can be an integral part of the cleaning head.

[0044] In particular, one of the following is planned:

[0045] (i) the channel body is fixed or detachably attached to a cleaning head body of the cleaning head; or

[0046] (ii) the channel body is firmly attached to the holding device; or

[0047] (iii) the channel body is detachably attached to the holding device.

[0048] The channel body can be permanently or detachably attached to the cleaning head body. In this case, the channel assembly can be considered part of the cleaning head body.

[0049] The channel body can be firmly attached to the holding device. In particular, the holding device is part of a cassette. The channel cover can then be removed from the channel body. A 501 228 t

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[0052] The channel body can be detachably attached to the holding device. The manhole cover can then be permanently attached to the holding device, or it can be removable.

[0053] In one embodiment, the manhole cover has a wall that covers a portion of the holding device towards the at least one cleaning roller, particularly when the nozzle assembly is mounted on the manhole cover. In addition to its function as a cover for the manhole system, the manhole cover then also has a further function outside the manhole system due to the design of its wall.

[0054] It is possible that the manhole cover can be removed from the manhole body (i) in a direction towards the axis of rotation of the at least one cleaning roller, or (ii) in a direction away from the manhole body from the axis of rotation of the at least one cleaning roller. In particular, it is provided that in case (i) the at least one cleaning roller is removed. In case (ii) the cleaning roller may be present or removed. For example, if the manhole cover has a nozzle assembly, then case (i) is provided.

[0055] It is particularly advantageous if the holding device is arranged on a cassette on which at least one cleaning roller is rotatably mounted, and if the cassette is removable from the cleaning head. Then, if attached to the holding device, the channel cleaning unit can also be removed along with the cassette. The channel cover can then be easily removed to clean the channel at the cassette. Alternatively, it can be provided that the channel cleaning unit is removable from the holding device, and in particular, that a channel cover can be removed when the channel cleaning unit is detached.

[0056] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided:

[0057] (i) the nozzle assembly forms the manhole cover; A 501 228 t

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[0060] (ii) the manhole cover is spaced apart from the nozzle assembly;

[0061] (iii) the manhole assembly, including the manhole cover and the manhole body, is removable as a whole and the manhole cover is removable from the manhole body.

[0062] In one embodiment, the nozzle assembly forms a manhole cover. This allows for simple manufacturing of the manhole assembly. The nozzle assembly is integrated into a manhole cover, and particularly a removable one. In this case, the manhole assembly can be opened downwards, so to speak.

[0063] It is also possible for the manhole cover to be spaced apart from the nozzle assembly. In this case, the manhole assembly can then be opened upwards, so to speak.

[0064] It is also possible that the entire duct assembly is removable, including the manhole cover. This allows the entire duct assembly to be detached, for example, from its mounting bracket and especially from its cassette, particularly for cleaning or replacement.

[0065] In one design embodiment, the manhole cover is attached to the pipe body via a snap-fit ​​connection and / or press fit, and is detachably connected to it. This connection can be easily made and detached, especially if the manhole cover is made of a soft material. For example, the manhole cover may also have a tab that allows an operator to easily remove it (by essentially pulling it off).

[0066] It is particularly advantageous if the channel system is in fluid-active connection with a tank system for cleaning fluid. This A 501 228 t

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[0069] The tank for cleaning fluid is located, in particular, on a cleaning head body. This ensures a continuous supply of cleaning fluid during the cleaning operation of the surface cleaning device.

[0070] It is advantageous if the channel system has a connection for cleaning fluid, which is particularly detachable from the cleaning head. This connection is located, for example, on a cassette and can be detached from the cleaning head body. This allows for a simple, fluid-acting connection to the cleaning fluid tank when the cassette is inserted.

[0071] In a structurally advantageous embodiment, the channel assembly comprises a first flow chamber and a second flow chamber. The nozzle assembly is arranged in the second flow chamber, and a connection port for cleaning fluid is in direct fluid-active communication with the first flow chamber. Cleaning fluid exiting the nozzle assembly must first flow through the first flow chamber. The first flow chamber forms an inlet channel for cleaning fluid to the second flow chamber. The second flow chamber is a distribution channel for cleaning fluid to the at least one cleaning roller. This results in an efficient supply of cleaning fluid to the at least one cleaning roller. Uniform distribution at the nozzle assembly and thus also on the at least one cleaning roller is achieved.

[0072] Advantageously, the first flow chamber extends along a first longitudinal axis and the second flow chamber extends along a second longitudinal axis, with at least one of the following: the first longitudinal axis and / or the second longitudinal axis are parallel to the axis of rotation of the at least one cleaning roller; A 501 228 t

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[0074] - 10 - the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are at least approximately parallel to each other; the length of the first flow chamber along the first longitudinal axis is less than the length of the second flow chamber along the second longitudinal axis; the second flow chamber extends along the second longitudinal axis substantially over the entire length of the at least one cleaning roller parallel to the axis of rotation; the second flow chamber lies above the first flow chamber with respect to the direction of gravity when the surface cleaning device is properly set up; the first flow chamber is an inlet channel for the second flow chamber; the second flow chamber is a distribution channel for cleaning fluid to the at least one cleaning roller.

[0075] By arranging the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis parallel to the axis of rotation, or by ensuring parallelism to each other, an effective, space-saving design of the channel system is achieved.

[0076] The greater length of the second flow chamber compared to the first allows for an effective and uniform supply of cleaning fluid over a greater length of at least one cleaning roller, thereby enabling an effective supply of cleaning fluid from the first flow chamber to the second. A 501 228 t

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[0079] If the second flow chamber is located above the first flow chamber with respect to the direction of gravity, then an effective supply and distribution of cleaning fluid onto the at least one cleaning roller results.

[0080] Furthermore, it is advantageous if a wall lies between the first flow chamber and the second flow chamber, having at least one of the following features: the wall has at least one, and in particular exactly one, opening for the fluid-effective connection of the second flow chamber with the first flow chamber; the wall has an opening centrally located with respect to the second longitudinal axis of the second flow chamber; a transverse wall is provided for the first flow chamber, which is oriented transversely to the first longitudinal axis, with at least one opening between the first flow chamber and the second flow chamber adjacent to the transverse wall; the wall is arranged on the manhole cover and is in particular removable.

[0081] The wall separates the first flow chamber and the second flow chamber except for one or more openings, in order to achieve a functional separation with the first flow chamber as an inlet channel and the second flow chamber as a distribution channel.

[0082] The transverse wall makes it possible to transfer from the first flow chamber to the second flow chamber at least approximately in the middle (relative to the A 501 228 t).

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[0084] - 12 - second longitudinal axis of the second flow chamber) to couple cleaning fluid from the first flow chamber. This results in an effective uniform distribution.

[0085] If the wall is positioned at the manhole cover and, in particular, is removable with the manhole cover, then the sewer system can be easily cleaned.

[0086] It is advantageous if the manhole cover has a handle. This allows the cover to be easily removed from the pipe, particularly by pulling. The handle is especially beneficial if the manhole cover is designed as a soft part.

[0087] It is advantageous if the tubes protrude above the base by a height between 0.5 mm and 2.5 mm, and particularly by 1 mm to 2 mm. This allows them to come into contact with at least one of the cleaning roller's bristles, thus achieving a kind of self-cleaning of the surface cleaning device during operation, specifically with regard to the nozzle assembly.

[0088] In one embodiment, the at least one cleaning roller has a textile covering, particularly made of a microfiber material, and the tubes project into the textile covering. This allows for a simple passing motion with mechanical contact between the textile covering and the tubes, thus creating a cleaning effect for the tubes (for the nozzle assembly). Furthermore, roller wear can be compensated for.

[0089] The surface cleaning device according to the invention is designed in particular as a floor cleaning device. It can, in principle, be either stationary or hand-held. In one embodiment, the surface cleaning device is a self-propelled and self-steering device, i.e., a cleaning robot and in particular a mopping robot. A 501 228 t

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[0092] According to the invention, a method of the type mentioned at the outset is provided in which the nozzle device has tubes past which the at least one cleaning roller is guided, wherein the cleaning roller with a coating brushes the tubes.

[0093] The method according to the invention has the advantages already explained in connection with the surface cleaning device according to the invention.

[0094] Further advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention have already been explained in connection with the surface cleaning device according to the invention.

[0095] In particular, the surface cleaning device according to the invention can be operated with the method according to the invention, or the method according to the invention can be carried out on the surface cleaning device according to the invention.

[0096] The following description of preferred embodiments, in conjunction with the drawings, serves to further explain the invention. The drawings show:

[0097] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a surface cleaning machine according to the invention in the form of a floor cleaning machine as a cleaning robot in a perspective top view;

[0098] Figure 2 shows the surface cleaning machine according to Figure 1 in a perspective bottom view;

[0099] Figure 3 shows a cassette with a cleaning roller of the surface cleaning machine according to Figure 1; A 501 228 t

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[0102] Figure 4 shows a partial sectional view of the cleaning machine according to Figure 1 with a first embodiment of a channel device;

[0103] Figure 5 shows the cassette according to Figure 3 with the first embodiment of the channel device, wherein the representation according to Figure 5 is a partial representation in which only a part of the channel device is shown;

[0104] Figure 6 shows the cassette according to Figure 5 without the cleaning roller;

[0105] Figure 7 shows a similar view to Figure 6, with a manhole cover, which has a nozzle device, removed;

[0106] Figure 8 shows the cassette according to Figure 5 with the manhole cover removed;

[0107] Figure 9 shows another embodiment of a cassette with a second embodiment of a channel device with an open channel cover;

[0108] Figure 10 shows the cassette in a perspective sectional view with the manhole cover closed;

[0109] Figure 11 shows a similar view to Figure 10 in a variant;

[0110] Figure 12 shows a partial representation of an embodiment of a cassette with a third embodiment of a channel device;

[0111] Figure 13 shows the cassette according to Figure 12 with the channel assembly partially removed; and

[0112] Figure 14 shows the cassette according to Figure 13 with the channel assembly completely removed, showing a channel cover removed from a channel body. A 501 228 t

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[0115] A surface cleaning machine, an embodiment of which is shown in Figures 1 to 3 and which is designated 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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).

[0118] 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.

[0119] A support roller 24 is also arranged on the cleaning head body 16, spaced apart from the wheels 20. The support roller 24 has a pivot axis. It is pivotable about a steering axis, which is perpendicular to this pivot axis. It is possible, in principle, for the support roller 24 to be a passive steering roller, which is not driven (and in particular not driven to rotate about the corresponding pivot axis and to pivot about the steering axis). A change in the direction of the cleaning head 12 is effected by corresponding control of the wheels 20a, 20b by a control unit.

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[0121] - 16 - device which is positioned on the cleaning head body 16. A change of direction is effected in particular by rotating the wheels 20a, 20b at different speeds.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] On a flat surface on which the cleaning head 14 is placed, the placement plane coincides with a surface of the flat surface.

[0125] In one embodiment, a vacuum operation is provided for the cleaning machine 10. (In an alternative embodiment, such a vacuum operation is not provided, and the corresponding components described are then not present.) For vacuum 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.

[0126] During cleaning operation of the cleaning machine 10, the brush roller 30 and / or the cleaning roller 32 are positioned at the installation level and act on the surface to be cleaned. (It is generally possible that during cleaning operation both the brush roller 30 and the cleaning roller 32 act on the surface to be cleaned, or that only the brush roller 30 acts on the surface to be cleaned. A 501 228 t

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[0128] - 17 - cleaning surface. It can also be provided that only the cleaning roller 32 acts 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.)

[0129] 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.

[0130] It is specifically intended that the cleaning machine 10 can independently locate the cleaning station 12 by means of the navigation device 34 and the control device.

[0131] 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 reservoir 42 and a cleaning fluid reservoir 44 are positioned in the area of ​​the rear end 38 (see also Figure 1).

[0132] 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).

[0133] The cleaning head body 16 has a bottom surface facing the installation plane. It has a top surface opposite the bottom surface. A 501 228 t

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[0135] - 18 - page 48. The wheels 20 and the support wheels 24 are arranged on the underside. The navigation device 34 is positioned at least partially on the upper surface 48.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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".

[0138] 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.

[0139] A dirt collection container (not shown in the figures) is detachably arranged on 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. A 501 228 t

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[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] The battery unit 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.

[0146] The cleaning head body 16 has a connection 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 where 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.

[0147] 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 extended by an A 501 228 t

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[0150] Rotation axis rotatable, which is oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the installation plane, or is oriented at a small acute angle, in particular less than 10°, to the installation plane.

[0151] 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.

[0152] The cleaning head body 16 has a first lateral side 80 and an opposite second lateral side 82. The first lateral side 80 and the second lateral side 82 are, in particular, mirror-symmetrical about a median 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.

[0153] 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.

[0154] The receptacle 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. A 501 228 t

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[0157] The opening 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.

[0158] 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.

[0159] 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.

[0160] 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.

[0161] 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).

[0162] The cassette 92 with the cleaning roller 32 can be inserted into and removed from the cleaning head 14. A 501 228 t

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[0165] 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 axle 22. It is in particular parallel to the axis of rotation 96.

[0166] The cleaning roller 32 has a cylindrical outer shape with an axial axis parallel to the rotation axis 96.

[0167] 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.

[0168] 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 section of the circumferential wall 106. A second section of the circumferential wall 106 is designed as a flap 144. This flap is movably mounted on the first section 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. A 501 228 t

[0169] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0170] - 23 -

[0171] Reference is made in this context to DE 10 2024 109 736.1 of 8 April 2024.

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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).

[0174] A scraper device 166 for the cleaning roller 32 is arranged on the flap 144.

[0175] 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 surfactant cleaning agent) by a humidification device. This fluid is supplied by the cleaning fluid tank 44.

[0176] By acting on the surface to be cleaned, dirt can be loosened and carried away by the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32.

[0177] 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. A 501 228 t

[0178] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0179] - 24 -

[0180] 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.

[0181] 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 cleaning head 14 with the cassette 92 properly inserted), penetrates the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32. The scraper bar, through which dirt 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).

[0182] The scraper strip 176 is arranged and designed in such a way that it leads in a funnel shape to the outlet device 174.

[0183] 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 forced into contact with 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. A 501 228 t

[0184] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0185] - 25 -

[0186] 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.

[0187] 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.

[0188] A flange 180 is arranged on the end face of the holding device 94 of the cassette 92. This 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.

[0189] 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 edge flange 180.

[0190] 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. It is specifically provided that in A 501 228 t

[0191] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0192] - 26 - movable cassette holder 98 the drive motor 200 is firmly connected to the cassette holder 98 and is movable with it.

[0193] 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.

[0194] 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.

[0195] 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.

[0196] 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.

[0197] In one embodiment, the cleaning machine 10 comprises an active lifting device for lifting the cassette holder 98 away from a mounting plane in one direction, such that, in particular, the cleaning roller 32 is spaced apart from this mounting plane and also from the surface to be cleaned. Reference is made in this context to the

[0198] DE 10 2024 103 726.1 of February 9, 2024, is referenced. 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. A 501 228 t

[0199] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0200] - 27 -

[0201] 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.

[0202] 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.

[0203] 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.

[0204] The side cleaning tool 270 is used for wiping cleaning of the surface to be cleaned between an end face of the cleaning roller 32 and the second lateral side 82 and preferably beyond the second lateral side 82.

[0205] 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 touches the cleaning roller 32, or there is a minimum distance of at most 1 cm in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 96, or that it overlaps the cleaning roller 32.

[0206] 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. A 501 228 t

[0207] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0208] - 28 -

[0209] 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.

[0210] 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.

[0211] 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.

[0212] 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.

[0213] In one embodiment, the contact area 274 of the side cleaning tool 270 is designed as a circular disc, which is accordingly seated on the holding area 278. A 501 228 t

[0214] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0215] - 29 -

[0216] 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.

[0217] 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.

[0218] 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.

[0219] 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.

[0220] 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.

[0221] Reference is made in this context to DE 10 2024 109 736.1 of 8 April 2024.

[0222] 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. Es A 501 228 t

[0223] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0224] - 30 - In this context, reference is made to DE 10 2024 109 736.1 dated April 8, 2024. By shifting the side cleaning tool 270 vertically 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.

[0225] 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.

[0226] 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.

[0227] 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.)

[0228] In one embodiment, the cleaning machine 10 comprises a

[0229] Pump 290, which is located on the cleaning head body 16 and the side A 501 228 t

[0230] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0231] - 31 - cleaning tool 270 is assigned. 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 in Figure 3 by reference numeral 292.

[0232] 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 142 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.

[0233] The surface cleaning machine 10 comprises a humidification device, designated as a whole by 302, for moistening the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32 with cleaning fluid during cleaning operation. The cleaning fluid is taken from the tank 44 for cleaning fluid and conveyed by means of the first pump 142.

[0234] The humidification device 302 comprises a channel device 304, which has a supply and distribution function for cleaning fluid with respect to the cleaning roller 32. A first embodiment of a channel device 304 is shown in Figures 4 to 8.

[0235] The channel device 304 is arranged on the cassette 92. In particular, it is firmly connected to the cassette 92.

[0236] It is positioned adjacent to flap 144 and, in particular, to the pivot bearing assembly 146. A 501 228 t

[0237] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0238] - 32 -

[0239] The channel system 304 has a channel body 306 and a manhole cover 308.

[0240] In the first embodiment of a channel device 304, the channel body 306 is firmly connected to the cassette 92 and the channel cover 308 is removable from the channel body 306 and thus also from the cassette 92.

[0241] The channel body 306 extends along a longitudinal axis 310 (Figure 5). The longitudinal axis 310 is parallel to the axis of rotation 96 of the cleaning roller 32.

[0242] The channel body 306 extends essentially over the entire length of the cleaning roller 32 with respect to a longitudinal axis parallel to the axis of rotation 96.

[0243] The channel body 306 has a channel base 312, to which a side wall 314 is attached. The channel body 306, with the channel base 312 and the side wall 314, has a substantially cuboid shape.

[0244] The side wall 304 is firmly connected to the channel base 312. The channel base 312 and / or the side wall 314 is firmly fixed to the cassette 92 (the holding device 94).

[0245] In Figure 5, the canal floor 312 has been removed for illustrative purposes.

[0246] With reference to an inner contour 316 of the cassette 92, which faces the cleaning roller 32 (Figure 4), the channel body 306 forms a kind of recessed bulge in a radial direction away from the axis of rotation 96.

[0247] The manhole cover 308 is removable from the manhole body 306. It is oriented towards the radial axis 96 (away from the inner contour 316) of the manhole body 306 A 501 228 t

[0248] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0249] - 33 - removable when the cleaning roller 32 is not attached to the cassette 92 (compare Figures 7, 8). The channel assembly 304 is held on the circumferential wall 106 (with the inner contour 316). It is positioned, with respect to a circumferential direction, between a first end 318 and a second end 320 of the cassette 92. The second end 320 is an end which faces the dirt fluid reservoir 42. The first end 316 faces the cassette holder 98. The channel assembly 304 is positioned, in particular, between a counter element 322 of the cassette 92 for the cassette holder 98 and the flap 144.

[0250] In particular, the cleaning roller 32 is moistened from above, relative to the direction of gravity, during the proper operation of the surface cleaning machine 10, and especially when used as a floor cleaning machine. With respect to a direction of rotation 324 of the axis of rotation 92 during cleaning operation, a specific area of ​​the brush 172 is initially exposed to cleaning fluid. It then rotates in direction 324 towards the surface to be cleaned and then from the surface to be cleaned towards the scraper bar 176, whereby fluid is detached from the brush 172.

[0251] In one embodiment, the manhole cover 308 is designed as a soft part. It is rubber-like and made, for example, of a silicone material or EPDM.

[0252] This results in easy fixation and removal from the channel body 306.

[0253] In one embodiment, the manhole cover 308 has a channel section 326. This channel section 326 cooperates with the channel device 304.

[0254] The manhole cover 308 further comprises a wall section 328 with a wall 330. This wall section 328 is connected to the channel section 326 and, in particular, is integrally connected. The wall 330 rests against the inner contour 316 of the cassette 32 when the manhole cover 308 is attached to the A 501 228 t

[0255] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0256] - 34 -

[0257] Channel body 306 is positioned (see, for example, Figure 4). For example, the wall 330 covers an area below the pivot bearing assembly 146 towards the cleaning roller 32.

[0258] The wall 330 of the wall area 328 generally serves to cover a partial area of ​​the cassette 92 towards the cleaning roller 32. It serves, for example, as a splash guard.

[0259] The wall 330 can also serve as a tab for gripping by an operator to detach ("pull off") the manhole cover 308 from the cassette 92.

[0260] In one embodiment, the channel area 326 of the manhole cover 308 comprises a cover base 332. An outer wall 334 is attached to the cover base 332. The outer wall 334 projects from the cover base 332.

[0261] When the manhole cover 308 is fixed to the manhole body 306, the outer wall is positioned inside the manhole body 306 and corresponding wall parts of the outer wall 334 touch the associated wall parts of the side wall 314.

[0262] The outer wall 334 comprises opposing wall sections 336a, 336b. Between the wall sections 336a, 336b of the outer wall 334 is a wall 338, which is an inner wall. The wall 338 is oriented parallel to the wall sections 336a, 336, with the wall sections 336a, 336b themselves being oriented parallel to each other.

[0263] When the manhole cover 308 is fixed to the manhole body 306, the wall 338 divides the manhole assembly 304 into a first flow chamber 339 and a second flow chamber 341.

[0264] A nozzle assembly 340 is arranged on the manhole cover 308, by means of which cleaning fluid can be applied to the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32. A 501 228 t

[0265] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0266] - 35 -

[0267] The nozzle assembly 340 has a base 342 on which a plurality of nozzles 344 are mounted.

[0268] The base 342 with the nozzles 344 is part of the cover base 332. The nozzles are located on an area of ​​the cover base 332 which lies between the inner wall and the outer wall part 336b and is adjacent to the second flow chamber 341.

[0269] The first flow chamber 339 is formed between the wall 338 (the inner wall 338) and the wall section 336a. It extends along a first longitudinal axis 346, which is parallel to the longitudinal axis 310 or parallel to the rotation axis 96. The first flow chamber 339 serves as an inlet channel for the second flow chamber 341.

[0270] The channel assembly 304 is assigned a coupling port 348 for cleaning fluid. This port is, in particular, fixedly arranged on the channel body 306. The coupling port 348 is part of the cassette 92. It interacts with a mating port on the cleaning head body 16. When the cassette 92 is inserted into the receptacle 84 on the cleaning head body 16, the mating port and the coupling port 348 connect to establish a fluid connection to the tank assembly 44 for cleaning fluid.

[0271] The coupling port 348 is in fluid-effective communication with the first flow chamber 339.

[0272] In one embodiment, the flow chamber 339 extends from the coupling port 348 to the end 350 with a transverse wall 353, which is located approximately centrally with respect to a second longitudinal axis 351 of the first flow chamber 339. A 501 228 t

[0273] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0274] - 36 -

[0275] In the region of this end 350, the wall 338 (inner wall 338) has an opening 352. This opening 352, which is located centrally with respect to the second longitudinal axis 351 of the second flow chamber 341, connects the second flow chamber 341 with the first flow chamber 339 in a fluid-effective manner and is an inlet opening for cleaning fluid.

[0276] The nozzles 344 are located in the second flow chamber 341, distributed particularly evenly with respect to the second longitudinal axis 351. A plurality of discrete nozzles 344 are provided, which are distributed evenly, in particular, over the entire length of the second flow chamber 341 and also essentially over the entire length of the brush 172 of the cleaning roller 32. This ensures a uniform supply of cleaning fluid.

[0277] The first longitudinal axis 346 and the second longitudinal axis 351 are in particular parallel and spaced apart from each other.

[0278] It is specifically intended, especially if the surface cleaning device is a floor cleaning device, that the first flow chamber 339 lies on a lower gravitational potential than the second flow chamber 341 (compare Figure 4).

[0279] The nozzles 344 of the nozzle assembly 340 are located on the base 342. In one embodiment, the nozzles are formed by openings (holes) in the base 342 and thus in the manhole cover 308 (not shown in the drawings). Other nozzle configurations are also possible.

[0280] The nozzles 344 of the nozzle assembly 340, which are located at the base 342 of the manhole cover 308, are designed in one embodiment as tubes 354 (Figure 6) that project beyond the base 342 towards the cleaning roller 32. The height 356 by which these project beyond the base is, for example, on the order of 1.5 mm. A 501 228 t

[0281] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0282] - 37 -

[0283] The tubes 354 extend to such a height 356 above the base 342 that they touch the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32.

[0284] During a rotation of the cleaning roller 32 around the axis of rotation 96 in the cleaning operation of the surface cleaning machine 10, the bristle 172 of the cleaning roller 32 passes by the tubes 354, particularly in the area of ​​openings 358 of the tubes 354 towards the cleaning roller 32 ("dispensing openings").

[0285] This passing motion (contacting the bristles 172 with the tubes 354) effectively cleans them in the area of ​​the opening 358. This prevents limescale and dirt deposits. Targeted liquid delivery to the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32 is achieved.

[0286] Furthermore, a certain amount of wear on the brush 172 of the cleaning roller 32 can be compensated for by the protruding tubes 354.

[0287] The tubes 354 protrude particularly into the filling 172 of the cleaning roller 32.

[0288] The manhole cover 308, with its outer wall 334, is fixed to the channel body 306 by means of an interference fit or snap-hook connection. In Figure 4, a snap hook is indicated by reference numeral 360. Due to its design as a soft part, the manhole cover 308 can be pressed into the channel body 306 by an operator, thus achieving the interference fit or snap-hook connection 360.

[0289] In one embodiment, the manhole cover 308 is provided with a tab 362. This tab serves as a grip for an operator to remove the manhole cover 308. The tab 362 can be formed by the wall 330. A 501 228 t

[0290] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0291] - 38 -

[0292] According to the invention, a multi-part channel device 304 is provided.

[0293] In the channel device 304, a channel body 306 is permanently connected to the cassette 92 (it can also be detachably connected to the cassette 92).

[0294] The manhole cover 308 is designed as a soft part which is removable from the manhole body.

[0295] The removal is possible when the cleaning roller 32 is removed from the cassette 92.

[0296] With the manhole cover 308 removed, both the manhole cover 308 and the interior of the manhole body 306 at the cassette 92 can be cleaned in a targeted manner.

[0297] The nozzle assembly 340 is integrated into the manhole cover 308. In one embodiment, it comprises tubes 354 which project towards the cleaning roller 32 and which, during operation, pass over a front portion of the tubes 354 (in the area of ​​the openings 358) during operation. This results in targeted application of cleaning fluid to the cleaning roller 32, including "automatic" cleaning of the tubes 354 via the cleaning roller 32.

[0298] The channel assembly 304 has a first flow chamber 339 as an inlet channel and a second flow chamber 341 as a distribution channel. These are arranged on the channel assembly 304. The partition between the first flow chamber 339 and the second flow chamber 341 is the inner wall 338, which is located on the removable channel cover 308.

[0299] This design, with a first flow chamber 339 and a second flow chamber 341, ensures a more uniform supply of liquid to the cleaning roller 32. Liquid is not directly coupled from the coupling port 348 into the second flow chamber 341. A 501 228 t

[0300] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0301] - 39 - but the liquid must flow through the first flow chamber 339 as an inlet channel, so that in particular a more uniform supply to the tubes 354 is achieved.

[0302] The inlet channel 339 (the first flow chamber 339) is fluidly connected to the second flow chamber 341 centrally via the opening 352, so that an outflow from the first flow chamber 339 into the second flow chamber 341 occurs centrally on both sides (indicated in Figure 5 by the corresponding flow arrows). This results in a uniform liquid distribution.

[0303] The integration of the inner wall 338 into the manhole cover 308 results in good cleanability.

[0304] In the embodiment described above, the channel device 304 is arranged on the cassette 92.

[0305] In principle, the design of the channel device with a removable manhole cover and / or the design with tubes as nozzles, over which the cleaning roller passes, is also possible if, for example, the cleaning roller is arranged directly on the cleaning head body. In this case, the corresponding channel device with a removable manhole cover is then arranged on the cleaning head body.

[0306] In another embodiment of a channel device 364 (Figures 9 to 11) a cassette 366 is provided, which serves to hold the cleaning roller 32 (the cleaning roller is not shown in Figures 9 to 11).

[0307] A channel body 368 is fixedly arranged on the cassette 366. The channel body 368 includes a nozzle assembly 370, which is also fixedly arranged on the cassette 366. A 501 228 t

[0308] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0309] - 40 -

[0310] The nozzle assembly 370 includes, for example, tubes 354. An inner wall 372 on the channel body 368, which divides flow spaces as described above, is also fixedly arranged on the cassette 366.

[0311] A manhole cover 374 is provided, which is removable and attached to the manhole body 368. It is designed as a soft part, as described above with reference to the manhole cover 308.

[0312] It can be removed in one direction away from the rotation axis 96 of the cleaning roller 32. It can be removed radially outwards.

[0313] For example, it can also be removed or attached when the cleaning roller 32 is on the cassette 366.

[0314] By removing the manhole cover 374, access to the manhole body 368 is provided (compare figure 9) and the manhole assembly 364 can be cleaned accordingly, particularly with the cassette 366 removed.

[0315] The manhole cover 374, for example, is attached to the channel body 368 via a snap-fit ​​connection (see Figure 10), with the snap hooks indicated by reference numeral 376. Alternatively or additionally, a manhole cover 374' may feature an interference fit (Figure 11). For example, the manhole cover 374' is designed as a two-component part with an insert 378 in a recess 380, which serves to place it on the channel body 368 and on the walls of the channel body 368, thus enabling an interference fit.

[0316] In principle, as described above, this embodiment of the channel device 364 is also possible if it is located on the cleaning head body 16 and no cassette is provided.

[0317] In another embodiment of a cassette 380 (Figures 12 to 14) a channel device 382 is provided, which as a whole is separated from the cassette A 501 228 t

[0318] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0319] - 41 - is detachable and fixable. The channel assembly 382 has a channel body 384 and a channel cover 386. A nozzle assembly with tubes 354, for example, is attached to the channel body 384.

[0320] To clean the channel assembly 382, ​​it can be removed as a whole from the cassette 380 (Figure 13). To clean the channel assembly 382, ​​the channel cover 386 can then be removed from the channel body 384, particularly with the channel assembly 382 removed from the cassette 380 (Figure 14). The channel assembly 382 can then be cleaned.

[0321] The channel device 382 can be provided with a first flow chamber and a second flow chamber as described above.

[0322] For example, there are 384 nozzles on the channel body, which are formed in particular by tubes corresponding to the tubes 354.

[0323] The manhole cover 386, for example, is designed as a soft part. In principle, it is also possible that the channel body 384 is designed as a soft part.

[0324] In the embodiment of the channel device 382, ​​the terms "cover" and "body" are interchangeable. The channel cover 386 can also be considered the channel body and the channel body 384 the channel cover.

[0325] In the illustrated embodiment, the channel assembly 382 is provided for removal as a whole towards the axis of rotation 96 of the cleaning roller 32 (with the cleaning roller 32 removed).

[0326] In principle, training with removal in the opposite direction can also be provided. A 501 228 t

[0327] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0328] - 42 -

[0329] In principle, a channel assembly with channel body and channel cover that can be removed as a whole can also be fixed to a cleaning head body if no cassette is provided. According to the invention, a channel assembly for the direct supply of cleaning fluid to the cleaning roller 32 is provided, which is designed in multiple parts with channel covers 308, 374, 374', 386 and channel bodies 306, 368, 384. The channel cover and the channel body are detachable relative to each other, so that one or more flow chambers of the corresponding channel assembly can be accessed for cleaning purposes.

[0330] According to the invention, it is alternatively or additionally provided that tubes 354 protrude into a covering 172 of the cleaning roller 32 in order to prevent, in particular, calcification and to maintain a uniform liquid supply even in the event of wear of the cleaning roller 32.

[0331] A 501 228 t

[0332] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0333] - 43 -

[0334] Reference symbol list

[0335] 10 cleaning machines

[0336] 14 Cleaning head

[0337] 16 cleaning head bodies

[0338] 18 Drive system

[0339] 20 wheels

[0340] 20a First wheel

[0341] 20b Second wheel

[0342] 22 Wheel axle

[0343] 24 support roller

[0344] 26 Main direction of travel

[0345] 27 Longitudinal axis

[0346] 30 brush roller

[0347] 32 Cleaning roller (second cleaning tool)

[0348] 34 Navigation system

[0349] 36 Front end

[0350] 38 Rear end

[0351] 42 Dirty fluid tank system

[0352] 44 Tank system for cleaning fluid

[0353] 48 Top

[0354] 50 impact bodies

[0355] 52 Cliff sensor

[0356] 54 charging contacts

[0357] 55 additional charging contacts

[0358] 56 Battery system

[0359] 74a Side brush

[0360] 74b Side brush

[0361] 78 lids

[0362] 80 First lateral side

[0363] 82 Second lateral side

[0364] 84 Recording A 501 228 t

[0365] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0366] - 44 -

[0367] 86 Cross wall

[0368] 88 Opening

[0369] 90 lids

[0370] 92 cassette

[0371] 94 Holding device

[0372] 96 Rotation axis

[0373] 98 cassette holders

[0374] 106 Perimeter wall

[0375] 142 first pump

[0376] 144 flap

[0377] 146 Swivel bearing assembly

[0378] 166 Scraper device

[0379] 168 Sleeve

[0380] 172 crew

[0381] 174 Mouth device

[0382] 176 wiper strip

[0383] 180 wheel flange

[0384] 182 swivel bearings

[0385] 200 drive motor

[0386] 270 Side cleaning tool (first cleaning tool)

[0387] 274 Area of ​​application

[0388] 278 stopping area

[0389] 282 Outside

[0390] 284 Rotation axis

[0391] 286 bearing holders

[0392] 288 Double Arrow

[0393] 290 pump

[0394] 292 Nozzle assembly

[0395] 302 Humidification unit

[0396] 304 Channel system (First embodiment)

[0397] 306 Channel bodies

[0398] 308 manhole covers

[0399] 310 Longitudinal axis A 501 228 t

[0400] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0401] - 45 -

[0402] 312 Canal floor

[0403] 314 Side wall

[0404] 316 Inner contour

[0405] 318 First End

[0406] 320 Second End

[0407] 322 Counter element

[0408] 324 Direction of rotation

[0409] 326 Canal area

[0410] 328 Wall area

[0411] 330 wall

[0412] 332 Lid bottom

[0413] 334 Outer wall

[0414] 336a Wall section

[0415] 336b Wall section

[0416] 338 Wall (Interior wall)

[0417] 339 First flow chamber

[0418] 340 nozzle assembly

[0419] 341 Second flow chamber

[0420] 342 Base

[0421] 344 nozzles

[0422] 346 First longitudinal axis

[0423] 348 Coupling connection

[0424] 350 End

[0425] 351 Second longitudinal axis

[0426] 352 Opening

[0427] 353 Cross wall

[0428] 354 tubes

[0429] 356 Height

[0430] 358 Opening

[0431] 360 Snap Hooks

[0432] 362 tab

[0433] 364 Channel system (Second embodiment)

[0434] 366 Cassette A 501 228 t

[0435] August 7, 2025 t-248

[0436] - 46 -

[0437] 368 channel bodies

[0438] 370 nozzle assembly

[0439] 372 Inner wall

[0440] 374 manhole covers

[0441] 374' Manhole cover

[0442] 376 snap hooks

[0443] 378 Deposit

[0444] 380 cassette

[0445] 382 Channel device (Third embodiment)

[0446] 384 Channel bodies

[0447] 386 manhole covers

Claims

A 501 228 t August 7, 2025 t-248 - 47 - Patent claims 1. Surface cleaning device comprising a cleaning head (14), at least one cleaning roller (32) rotatable about a rotational axis (96), a drive motor (200) for the at least one cleaning roller (32), and a humidification device (302) for humidifying the at least one cleaning roller (32) with cleaning fluid, wherein the humidification device (302) comprises a nozzle device (340) with a plurality of nozzles (344), characterized in that the humidification device (302) has a channel device (304; 364; 382) on which the nozzle device (340) is arranged, that the channel device (304; 364; 382) is designed in multiple parts with a channel cover (308; 374; 374'; 386) and a channel body (306; 368; 384), and that the channel cover (308; 374; 374'; 386) is detachably fixed to the channel body (306; 368; 384).

2. Surface cleaning device according to claim 1 or the preamble of claim 1, characterized in that the nozzles (344) of the nozzle assembly (340) are formed by tubes (354) which are arranged on a base (342) and each have a nozzle opening (358) towards the at least one cleaning roller (32), and that in rotational operation of the at least one cleaning roller (32) the at least one cleaning roller (32) passes by the tubes (354) at least in the area of ​​the respective nozzle opening (358).

3. Surface cleaning device according to claim 2, characterized in that the base (342) with the nozzle assembly (340) is a soft part.

4. Surface cleaning device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the base (342) with the nozzle device (340) forms a channel cover (308) for a channel device (304). A 501 228 t August 7, 2025 t-248 - 48 - 5. Surface cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the manhole cover (308; 374; 374'; 386) is a soft part.

6. Surface cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the channel device (304) is arranged on a holding device (94) for the at least one cleaning roller (32), and / or is arranged on a cleaning head body (16) of the cleaning head (14).

7. Surface cleaning device according to claim 6, characterized by one of the following: (i) the channel body is fixedly or detachably attached to a cleaning head body (16) of the cleaning head (14); or (ii) the channel body (368) is firmly attached to the holding device (94); or (iii) the channel body (384) is detachably attached to the holding device (94).

8. Surface cleaning device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the manhole cover (308) has a wall (330) which covers a partial area of ​​the holding device (94) towards the at least one cleaning roller (32), in particular when the nozzle device (340) is arranged on the manhole cover.

9. Surface cleaning device according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the channel cover (308; 374) is removable from the channel body (306) (i) in a direction towards the axis of rotation (96) of the at least one cleaning roller (32) from the channel body (306), or (ii) is removable from the channel body (368) in a direction away from the axis of rotation (96) of the at least one cleaning roller (32). A 501 228 t August 7, 2025 t-248 - 49 - 10. Surface cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding device (94) is arranged on a cassette (92; 366; 380) on which the at least one cleaning roller (32) is rotatably mounted, and that the cassette (92; 366; 380) is removable from the cleaning head (14).

11. Surface cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one of the following: (i) the nozzle assembly (340) forms the manhole cover (308); (ii) the manhole cover (374) is spaced apart from the nozzle assembly (370); (iii) the channel assembly (382) with the channel cover (386) and the channel body (384) is removable as a whole and the channel cover (386) is removable from the channel body (384).

12. Surface cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the manhole cover (308; 374; 374'; 386) is detachably connected to the manhole body (306; 368; 384) via a snap hook connection and / or press fit connection.

13. Surface cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the channel device (304; 364; 382) is in fluid-effective connection with a tank device (44) for cleaning fluid.

14. Surface cleaning device according to claim 13, characterized in that the channel device (304; 364; 382) is associated with a coupling connection (348) for cleaning fluid, which is in particular detachable from the cleaning head (14). A 501 228 t August 7, 2025 t-248 - 50 - 15. Surface cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the channel device (304; 364; 382) has a first flow chamber (339) and a second flow chamber (341), wherein the nozzle device (340) is arranged on the second flow chamber (341) and a coupling connection (348) for cleaning fluid is in direct fluid-effective connection with the first flow chamber (339), and cleaning fluid which exits at the nozzle device (340) must first flow through the first flow chamber (339).

16. Surface cleaning device according to claim 15, characterized in that the first flow chamber (339) extends along a first longitudinal axis (346) and the second flow chamber (341) extends along a second longitudinal axis (351), with at least one of the following: the first longitudinal axis (346) and / or the second longitudinal axis (351) are parallel to the axis of rotation (96) of the at least one cleaning roller (32); the first longitudinal axis (346) and the second longitudinal axis (351) are at least approximately parallel to each other; a length of the first flow chamber (339) along the first longitudinal axis (346) is less than a length of the second flow chamber (341) along the second longitudinal axis (351); the second flow chamber (341) extends in the second longitudinal axis (351) substantially over the entire length of the at least one cleaning roller (32) parallel to the axis of rotation (96); A 501 228 t August 7, 2025 t-248 - 51 - the second flow chamber (341) is located above the first flow chamber (339) with respect to the direction of gravity when the surface cleaning device is properly set up; the first flow chamber (339) is an inlet channel for the second flow chamber (341); the second flow chamber (341) is a distribution channel for cleaning fluid to the at least one cleaning roller (32).

17. Surface cleaning device according to claim 16, characterized in that a wall (338) lies between the first flow chamber (339) and the second flow chamber (341) having at least one of the following: the wall (338) has at least one and in particular exactly one opening (352) for the fluid-effective connection of the second flow chamber (341) with the first flow chamber (339); the wall (338) has an opening (352) centrally located with respect to the second longitudinal axis (351) of the second flow chamber (341); a transverse wall (353) is provided for the first flow chamber (339), which is oriented transversely to the first longitudinal axis (346), wherein at least one opening (352) lies between the first flow chamber (339) and the second flow chamber (341) adjacent to the transverse wall (353); the wall (338) is arranged on the manhole cover (308) and is in particular removable with the manhole cover (308). A 501 228 t August 7, 2025 t-248 - 52 - 18. Surface cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the manhole cover (308) has a handle tab (362).

19. Surface cleaning device according to one of claims 2 to 18, characterized in that the tubes (354) project above the base (342) with a height (356) in the range between 0.5 mm and 2.5 mm and in particular in a range between 1 mm and 2 mm.

20. Surface cleaning device according to one of claims 2 to 19, characterized in that the at least one cleaning roller (32) has a textile covering (172) and the tubes (354) project into the textile covering (172).

21. Surface cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a design as a floor cleaning device.

22. Surface cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a self-propelled and self-steering design.

23. Method for operating a surface cleaning device which, in operation, acts on a surface to be cleaned with a cleaning roller (32) rotating about a rotational axis (96) and in which the cleaning roller (32) is supplied with cleaning fluid via a nozzle device (340), characterized in that the nozzle device (340) has tubes (354) past which the at least one cleaning roller (32) is guided, wherein the cleaning roller (32) with a bristle (172) brushes the tubes (354).

Images