Dirty fluid tank for a floor cleaning machine, floor cleaning machine, and cleaning station

Abstract

The invention relates to a dirty fluid tank for a floor cleaning machine, comprising a container (302) with a container base (308), with a lateral wall (306), and with a receiving space (310) for dirty fluid and comprising a cover (304) which closes the container (302) with the receiving space (310) so as to be openable, wherein at least one of the following is provided on the cover (304): - an emptying hollow body (362) for discharging dirty fluid from the receiving space (310); and - a locking device (402) for locking the cover (304) to the lateral wall (306).

Description

[0001] A 501 227 t

[0002] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0003] Dirt fluid tank for a floor cleaning machine, floor cleaning machine and cleaning station

[0004] The invention relates to a dirt fluid tank for a floor cleaning machine, comprising a container with a container bottom, with a side wall and with a receiving chamber for dirt fluid, and a lid which opens to close the container with the receiving chamber.

[0005] The invention further relates to a floor cleaning machine comprising a cleaning head body, at least one cleaning roller which is attached to the cleaning head body, a drive for the at least one cleaning roller to the rotating drive, a supply device for cleaning fluid by means of which cleaning fluid can be supplied to the at least one cleaning roller and / or a floor to be cleaned, and a dirt fluid tank which is in particular detachably attached to the cleaning head body.

[0006] Furthermore, the invention relates to a cleaning station for a floor cleaning machine.

[0007] The EP 4 520 242 Al reveals a self-driving cleaning robot with a body and a water tank positioned inside the body.

[0008] WO 2023 / 087919 Al also reveals a self-driving cleaning robot with a water tank.

[0009] WO 2024 / 012139 Al discloses a cleaning robot system comprising a cleaning robot and a base station. A 501 227 t

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[0011] - 2 -

[0012] KR 1020230150464 A discloses an unmanned cleaning system with a cleaning vehicle for carrying out wet cleaning, and a docking station.

[0013] EP 4 413 909 Al discloses a surface cleaning device with a dirty water tank.

[0014] Cleaning machines are known from CN 220800897 U, CN 112971634 A, CN 217744257 U and CN 2169482620 U.

[0015] 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.

[0016] 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.

[0017] The German patent application, which was also not pre-published,

[0018] 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. A 501 227 t

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[0020] - 3 -

[0021] 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.

[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 by means of 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 at A 501 227 t

[0025] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0026] - 4 - the cleaning roller is coupled to the at least one drive shaft in a torque-effective manner on the cleaning head of at least one cassette.

[0027] The invention is based on the objective of providing a dirt fluid tank for a floor cleaning machine of the type mentioned above, which is of simple design and, in particular, easy to clean.

[0028] This problem is solved according to the invention in the aforementioned dirty fluid tank by arranging at least one of the following on the lid: a drainage hollow body for removing dirty fluid from the receiving chamber; a locking device for locking the lid to the side wall.

[0029] The emptying hollow body, which is arranged on the lid, allows for easy emptying of the receiving chamber and, in particular, automated emptying, for example at a cleaning station.

[0030] The intake volume of the intake chamber is only minimally reduced by the arrangement of the emptying hollow body on the lid.

[0031] A suitable drain connection can be optimally attached to the dirty fluid tank, in order to enable automated draining at a cleaning station in particular.

[0032] The placement of the emptying chamber on the lid allows for easy cleaning to remove dirt buildup. This, in turn, maintains the cleaning function of the floor cleaning machine. A 501 227 t

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[0034] - 5 -

[0035] Furthermore, this also makes it easy to clean the container.

[0036] The emptying body is designed, in particular, as a pipe or hose, or as a combination of pipe and hose. The emptying body can have an outer cross-section that is round or angular, such as square or rectangular. It can have an inner cross-section that is round, for example, circular, or square or rectangular. The emptying body can be an element that is closed on all sides, even when removed from the lid, or the lid can form a wall for the emptying body, and when the emptying body is in contact with the lid, then complete closure is achieved.

[0037] By positioning the locking mechanism on the lid, the intake space is minimally or even completely unaffected. This, in turn, results in easy cleaning and a simple design.

[0038] It is advantageous if the emptying body has at least one opening that corresponds to an emptying connection of the wastewater tank. This allows wastewater to be extracted or pumped out of the receiving chamber via the emptying body.

[0039] Accordingly, it is advantageous if the emptying body has at least one second opening, which, when the lid is closed, is positioned within the receiving chamber and, in particular, close to the bottom of the container. Dirty fluid can be drawn from the receiving chamber into the emptying body via this second opening to empty the dirty fluid tank.

[0040] It is particularly advantageous if at least one second opening is positioned on or in a recess in the bottom of the container, when the A 501 227 t

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[0042] - 6 -

[0043] The lid is closed. This allows the dirty fluid tank to be emptied via the emptying hollow body with a high degree of emptying.

[0044] In one embodiment, the emptying hollow body has a first section which is fixed to the lid. This results in effective fixation of the emptying hollow body relative to the dirty fluid tank with minimal reduction of the intake volume.

[0045] It is also advantageous if the emptying body has a second section attached to the first section, which projects into the receiving chamber. Dirty fluid can then be drawn in and thus extracted via this second section.

[0046] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the first section is detachably fixed to the lid; the first section is attached, at least with a partial area, to an inner surface of the lid which, when the lid is closed, faces the bottom of the container; the first section has at least one opening which is associated with a drain connection of the wastewater tank; the first section has at least one partial area which is oriented at an acute angle to a central plane of the container, the central plane being located between lateral ends of the container; the first section is completely closed and is in particular designed as a pipe or hose, or the first section has a wall for complete closure which is part of the lid. A 501 227 t

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[0049] This results in an effective and, in particular, easily removable arrangement of the emptying body on the lid. Orientation at an acute angle optimizes space utilization on the lid.

[0050] In principle, the emptying hollow body can be a single element (which may be one-piece or multi-piece) that is completely closed and essentially has an inlet opening and an outlet opening. It is also possible that, particularly in the first section, complete closure is only achieved by its placement on the lid, with part of the lid forming a wall to completely close the first section when the first section is seated against the lid (with a corresponding fluid-tight seal between the first section and the inside of the lid).

[0051] In one embodiment, the first section has a first sub-area and a second sub-area, wherein the first sub-area is provided with at least one opening and a second section of the emptying hollow body is attached to the second sub-area. This results in an efficient and space-saving arrangement of the emptying hollow body on the lid.

[0052] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the first section is oriented transversely to the second section; the first section, when the lid is closed, is connected to or forms a drain connection of the wastewater tank; the first section is shorter than the second section; A 501 227 t

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[0054] - 8 - the first sub-area and the second sub-area are firmly and in particular integrally connected to each other.

[0055] The first sub-section and the second sub-section result in an optimization of the emptying hollow body on the one hand with regard to the connection with the second section and on the other hand with regard to the connection with an emptying connection.

[0056] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the second section projects into the receiving chamber when the lid is closed; at least one second opening of the emptying hollow body, through which dirty fluid can be coupled from the receiving chamber into the emptying hollow body, is located on the second section; the second section is designed as a nozzle; when the lid is closed, the second section extends from the first section along the lid to the bottom of the container; the second section is oriented transversely to the lid and / or transversely to at least a partial area of ​​the first section; the second section has a longitudinal axis that is parallel to or oriented at an acute angle of no more than 60° to a vertical axis of the receiving chamber, relative to the bottom of the container; the second section is detachable from the first section;The second section is attached to the first section and / or the first section is attached to the second section. A 501 227 t;

[0057] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0058] - 9 -

[0059] The second section extends into a liquid level within the receiving chamber. Dirty fluid can then be drained from the receiving chamber via this section. This results in a space-saving arrangement of the second section with minimal impact on the receiving chamber's volume.

[0060] If the second section is detachable from the first, then the emptying chamber (and also the lid) can be cleaned effectively. Attaching the first section to the second section, or vice versa, creates an effective connection that can be easily disassembled.

[0061] It is particularly advantageous if the emptying chamber is detachably attached to the lid. This allows it to be removed for cleaning both the lid and the emptying chamber itself.

[0062] It is advantageous if the emptying body is made of a flexible material, particularly a soft or rubbery material, at least in one or more sections. This allows it to be easily clamped to a suitable holder on the lid, for example. It can then be easily removed and, after cleaning, reinserted.

[0063] Furthermore, it is advantageous if a holder for the emptying hollow body is arranged on the lid, in particular with at least one of the following: the holder is arranged on an inner side of the lid, which faces the bottom of the container when the lid is closed; the holder is designed as an insert for the emptying hollow body; A 501 227 t

[0064] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0065] - 10 - the holder is located in the area of ​​an inlet opening for dirt fluid, which is positioned on the lid and through which dirt fluid can be coupled into the receiving chamber.

[0066] This results in a simple structural design with easy cleaning of the dirt fluid tank and the emptying hollow body.

[0067] It is particularly advantageous if the dirt fluid tank is equipped with a drain connection that is in fluid contact with the drain body. This allows the dirt fluid tank to be emptied from the outside without having to remove it from the floor cleaning machine. For example, at a cleaning station, the dirt fluid tank can be emptied by suction via a suction pipe or hose connected to the drain connection.

[0068] Therefore, it is advantageous if the drain connection has at least one opening for inserting a suction pipe or hose. This allows for easy implementation of automated draining, for example at a cleaning station.

[0069] It can be provided that (i) the opening is arranged on the lid and connected to the emptying body, or (ii) the opening has a first opening area located on the lid and connected to the emptying body, and a second opening area located on the side wall, where, when the lid is closed, the first and second opening areas cooperate to form the opening. This allows for a simple implementation of an emptying connection. In case (i), the emptying connection is only located on the lid. In case (ii) A 501 227 t 14 August 2025 t-241

[0070] - 11 - the lid and the container cooperate to form the drain connection.

[0071] It is advantageous if the first opening is located at the edge of the lid that is immersed in the receiving chamber when the lid is closed. This results in optimized sealing of the dirt fluid tank with a simple design when the lid is closed.

[0072] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the drain connection is located at a distance from the bottom of the container in a vertical direction when the lid is closed; the drain connection is located above a maximum level for dirty fluid in the receiving space in a vertical direction; the drain connection is located on a central plane of the container, the central plane being relative to lateral ends; the drain connection is located on the same plane as a guide element for a floor to be cleaned, which is positioned on the container.

[0073] The drain connection does not interfere with the normal cleaning operation of the floor cleaning machine.

[0074] The drain connection can be integrated into the wastewater tank in a space-saving manner if it is arranged on the same plane as a guide element for a floor to be cleaned (such as a roller or a skid). This plane is, in particular, a plane that is perpendicular to, for example, an axis of the guide element or perpendicular to a distance between the lateral ends of the container. A 501 227 t

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[0076] - 12 -

[0077] It is particularly advantageous if the side wall has an inner and an outer area, with the inner area facing the cleaning head of the floor cleaning machine when the dirt fluid tank is fixed to the machine, and the outer area facing away from the cleaning head. The inner and outer areas can be designed with different geometric shapes. For example, the inner area can be straight to allow the lid to pivot. The outer area can, for instance, follow the overall shape of the floor cleaning machine.

[0078] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the interior is straight with respect to a connecting line with the bottom of the container; the exterior is curved with respect to a connecting line with the bottom of the container and in particular is convexly curved.

[0079] The straight design of the interior allows for optimal connection to a cleaning head body, particularly one with a cleaning roller. A swivel bearing mechanism for hinged storage of the lid on the container can be easily implemented.

[0080] A high intake volume can be achieved by curving the outer surface. It can also be adapted to the general contour of the floor cleaning machine.

[0081] It is advantageous if a drain connection is located on the exterior. This allows, for example, the easy connection of a suction pipe or hose when approaching a cleaning station. A 501 227 t

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[0084] It is advantageous if the transition between the side wall and the bottom of the container is rounded and, in particular, concave. This helps to minimize the adhesion of dirt particles.

[0085] It is particularly advantageous if a recessed area is formed on the bottom of the container, which is associated with the emptying hollow body, with at least one of the following features: a transition of the recessed area to a container bottom area where the recessed area is located is rounded and, in particular, has a concave shape; the bottom of the recessed area is lower than the rest of the container bottom with respect to a vertical direction of the receiving space; the recessed area projects into a transition between a side wall and the container bottom; the recessed area is closer to an inner area of ​​the side wall than to an outer area of ​​the side wall and, in particular, is located on the inner area; the recessed area is off-center with respect to a median plane between lateral ends of the container.

[0086] The recessed area allows for almost complete suction or pumping of the dirty fluid from the dirty fluid tank. It creates a kind of lowest point where the dirty fluid accumulates.

[0087] The projection into a transition in the side wall allows for optimized emptying of the wastewater tank. A 501 227 t

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[0090] It is particularly advantageous if the tank bottom, at least in relation to the emptying position of the wastewater tank, has a slope towards the recessed area. This results in virtually complete emptying. This slope can be achieved through the design and construction of the tank bottom and / or by positioning the tank bottom, for example, at a cleaning station during an emptying process.

[0091] A structurally simple design results if at least one of the following is arranged on the lid: an inlet connection for cleaning fluid for coupling cleaning fluid into the receiving chamber; a sensor device for determining a fill level of cleaning fluid in the receiving chamber; a holding device for holding and, in particular, suspending the cleaning fluid tank on the floor cleaning machine; at least one handle, in particular for opening the lid; a sealing device for a fluid-tight seal with the container.

[0092] This makes it possible to create a container with a high capacity for cleaning fluid.

[0093] In one embodiment, the lid is pivotally positioned on the container and / or removable. This results in easy operation.

[0094] It is particularly advantageous if the container, in terms of cross-sectional area perpendicular to a vertical direction of the receiving space, is simply A 501 227 t

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[0096] - 15 - is continuous and / or free of internal components and, in particular, is simply continuous with respect to its cross-sectional areas, as mathematically and topologically defined. No internal components, such as columns that restrict the storage volume or that could lead to dirt accumulation, are arranged in the container at a distance from its edges (defined by the side walls and the bottom of the container).

[0097] It is particularly advantageous if the locking mechanism is located on the outside of the lid and, in particular, has no components within the receiving area. This results in a structurally simple design and allows the receiving area to be designed with a large volume.

[0098] In one embodiment, the locking device comprises a latching hook assembly with at least one latching hook, wherein an engagement element (engagement recess) is arranged on the side wall, which is associated with the at least one latching hook, and the latching hook assembly is slidably mounted on an outer surface of the cover and is, in particular, spring-supported. The spring support presses the latching hook assembly with the at least one latching element into the engagement element, thus locking the cover to the side wall. This locking can be released by moving the latching hook assembly.

[0099] It is advantageous if the locking mechanism is coupled to a handle located on the lid, which is primarily used for opening the lid. This allows, for example, the locking mechanism to be released or a released locking mechanism to be secured.

[0100] In a structurally advantageous embodiment, the handle is pivotally mounted on the lid, specifically on an outer surface of the lid. This results in easy operation. A simple A 501 227 t

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[0103] Implement a locking mechanism, a release mechanism, and a safety mechanism.

[0104] In one embodiment, the handle is assigned at least one deflection element by which the locking hook assembly can be moved into at least one disengaged position relative to the direction of engagement. The deflection element forms a connection between the handle and the locking hook assembly. The deflection element allows, for example, the locking hook assembly to be moved (activated via the handle), or when the locking hook assembly is moved, the at least one deflection element moves and releases the handle. The handle can then, in turn, lock the disengaged position of the locking hook assembly via the at least one deflection element.

[0105] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: the at least one deflection element is pivotably mounted on the lid and, in particular, pivotably mounted on an outside of the lid; the at least one deflection element has a first web which is coupled to the locking hook device in such a way that it moves when the locking hook device is moved and, in particular, performs a pivoting movement and / or that a movement of the first web causes a movement of the locking hook device; the at least one deflection element has a second web which is connected to a first web and which can be coupled to or is coupled to the handle and which, by means of the handle, causes a movement of the at least one deflection element.

[0106] The at least one deflection element can act on the locking hook device via the first bridge, or the locking hook device acts via the A 501 227 t

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[0108] - 17 - first bridge onto the at least one deflection element, and a coupling to the handle can be achieved via the second bridge.

[0109] According to the invention, a floor cleaning machine of the type mentioned above is provided, which is equipped with at least one dirt fluid tank according to the invention, wherein the dirt fluid tank is in particular detachably fixed to the cleaning body.

[0110] The advantages of the floor cleaning machine according to the invention have already been explained above in connection with the dirt fluid tank according to the invention.

[0111] It is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: an outer surface of the side wall of the dirt fluid tank forms at least a partial area of ​​an outer surface of the floor cleaning machine; the bottom of the tank forms at least a partial area of ​​an underside of the floor cleaning machine; a drain connection is arranged on an outer surface of the side wall.

[0112] Because the outer surface of the side wall forms the exterior of the floor cleaning machine, emptying can be carried out easily. For example, a suitable cleaning station can be approached and a suction pipe or hose can be easily connected.

[0113] In principle, the floor cleaning machine according to the invention can be designed as a handheld or hand-guided floor cleaning machine. (See A 501 227 t.)

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[0115] - 18 - In one embodiment, this is designed to be self-driving and self-steering (as a cleaning robot) and in particular as a mopping robot which picks up dirt fluid.

[0116] According to the invention, a cleaning station is provided for a floor cleaning machine according to the invention, which includes a suction device for dirt fluid with a suction pipe or suction hose for coupling to the dirt fluid tank and suction of dirt fluid from the receiving chamber.

[0117] This allows for automated emptying of the dirt fluid tank without having to remove it from the floor cleaning machine, for example.

[0118] In particular, the floor cleaning machine can approach at least one station. The suction pipe or hose is then connected to a corresponding emptying cavity of the at least one dirt fluid tank, and dirt fluid can be extracted from the dirt fluid tank via the suction device.

[0119] The following description of preferred embodiments, in conjunction with the drawings, serves to further explain the invention. The drawings show:

[0120] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a floor cleaning machine according to the invention in a perspective view (view from above), wherein the floor cleaning machine is designed as a cleaning robot;

[0121] Figure 2 shows the floor cleaning machine according to Figure 1 in a perspective bottom view; A 501 227 t 14 August 2025 t-241

[0122] - 19 -

[0123] Figure 3 shows a first perspective view of an embodiment of a dirt fluid tank for the floor cleaning machine according to Figure 1;

[0124] Figure 4 shows another perspective view of the dirty fluid tank according to Figure 3;

[0125] Figure 5 shows a sectional view of the dirt fluid tank according to Figure 3, with the section plane indicated in Figure 4;

[0126] Figure 6 shows the dirt fluid tank according to Figure 3 with the lid open, with a draining hollow body fixed to the lid;

[0127] Figure 7 shows the same view as Figure 6, with the emptying hollow body removed and the emptying hollow body divided into two sections;

[0128] Figure 8 shows a variant of the dirt fluid tank according to Figure 3, in which the lid is removed from a container and a draining hollow body is removed from the lid;

[0129] Figure 9 shows a similar view to Figure 8 in another variant of the dirt fluid tank;

[0130] Figure 10 shows a perspective partial sectional view of the dirt fluid tank according to Figure 3 (with the lid closed);

[0131] Figure 11 shows another perspective view of the dirty fluid tank according to Figure 3 with the lid partially open;

[0132] Figure 12 shows a similar view to Figure 10 during a lid opening process; A 501 227 t

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[0135] Figure 13 shows a sectional view of the dirt fluid tank according to Figure 3 along line 13-13 according to Figure 5;

[0136] Figure 14 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a cleaning station for the floor cleaning machine (without floor cleaning machine);

[0137] Figure 15 shows a sectional view of the cleaning station according to Figure 14 with the floor cleaning machine according to Figure 1 positioned at it;

[0138] Figure 16 is an enlarged representation of area A according to Figure 15 (in one direction out of the plane of the drawing according to Figure 15);

[0139] Figure 17 is a perspective view of area A according to Figure 15;

[0140] Figure 18 shows a further embodiment of a dirty fluid tank with a discharge hollow body (second embodiment of the discharge hollow body); and

[0141] Figure 19 shows another embodiment of a dirty fluid tank with another embodiment of a discharge hollow body (third embodiment of the discharge hollow body).

[0142] A cleaning machine, an embodiment of which is shown in Figures 1 and 2 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.

[0143] The cleaning machine 10 is a self-propelled and self-steering machine.

[0144] Floor cleaning device (Figures 1, 2). The cleaning machine is a mop- A 501 227 t

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[0147] Robots for cleaning hard floors, or a vacuuming and mopping robot suitable for cleaning both textile and hard floors.

[0148] 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).

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] The cleaning machine 10 has a main travel direction 26. This

[0153] Main direction of travel 26 is a forward direction. During a journey of the A 501 227 t

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[0156] In the main direction of travel 26, the axis of rotation of the support roller 24 of the cleaning head 14 (of the cleaning machine 10) 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.

[0157] On a flat surface on which the cleaning head 14 is placed, the placement plane coincides with a surface of the flat surface.

[0158] 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.

[0159] 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.)

[0160] 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 A 501 227 t

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[0162] - 23 - for example, one or more optical sensors, one or more wheel sensors, one or more IR sensors and / or one or more ultrasonic sensors.

[0163] It is specifically intended that the cleaning machine 10 can independently locate a cleaning station (charging station) by means of the navigation device 34 and the control device.

[0164] 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 tank assembly 44 for cleaning fluid are positioned in the area of ​​the rear end 38 (see also Figure 1).

[0165] 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).

[0166] 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.

[0167] 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.

[0168] On the underside of the cleaning body 36, clip sensors 52 are arranged, which are connected to the control unit and transmit signals. A 501 227 t

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[0171] These cliff sensors 52 serve to prevent the cleaning machine 10 from falling, for example in the area of ​​a staircase, by detecting corresponding "cliffs".

[0172] 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. The charging contacts 54 form a first set of charging contacts.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] 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.

[0176] 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. A 501 227 t

[0177] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0178] - 25 -

[0179] 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.

[0180] 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.

[0181] 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.

[0182] 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.

[0183] 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 an A 501 227 t

[0184] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0185] - 26 -

[0186] The central plane of the cleaning head body 16 is defined along a longitudinal axis running 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.

[0187] 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.

[0188] 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.

[0189] 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.

[0190] 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.

[0191] A cassette 92 is provided for positioning the cleaning roller 32 in the receptacle 84. See, for example, the unpublished DE 10 2024 103 709.1 of February 9, 2024, and DE 10 2024 109 736.1 of April 8, 2024. The cassette 92 includes a holding device for the cleaning roller 32. When the cassette 92 is properly inserted into the receptacle 84 of the cleaning head body 16 A 501 227 t, the holding device

[0192] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0193] - 27 - is positioned, the cleaning roller 32 is driven to rotate about a rotation axis 96.

[0194] 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.

[0195] A cassette holder for holding the cassette 92, and thus in turn holding the cleaning roller 32, is positioned in the receptacle 84 on the cleaning head body 16. The cassette holder 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).

[0196] The cassette 92 with the cleaning roller 32 can be inserted into and removed from the cleaning head 14.

[0197] 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.

[0198] The cleaning roller 32 has a cylindrical outer shape with an axial axis parallel to the rotation axis 96.

[0199] A guide device is provided which serves to guide the cassette 92 on the cassette holder and to hold it in position in the receptacle 84. The cassette 92 can be attached to the cleaning head 14 via an A 501 227 t

[0200] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0201] - 28 -

[0202] The fixing device is designed as a push-to-release touch latch. In one embodiment, the fixing device 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 dated February 9, 2024, and DE 10 2024 109 736.1 dated April 8, 2024.

[0203] The holding device 94 has a circumferential wall. 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. A second section of the circumferential wall is designed as a flap 144. This flap is movably mounted on the first section of the circumferential wall via a pivot bearing assembly. 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.

[0204] The flap 144 (the second area of ​​the circumferential wall) 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.

[0205] In an open position of the flap 144, which can be achieved by overcoming the spring force of the spring mechanism, particularly 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). A 501 227 t

[0206] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0207] - 29 -

[0208] A scraper device 166 for the cleaning roller 32 is arranged on the flap 144.

[0209] 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.

[0210] 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.

[0211] 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.

[0212] 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, during operation of the cleaning machine 10, is located in the closed A 501 227 t

[0213] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0214] - 30 -

[0215] The position of the flap 144 (and the properly inserted cassette 92 on the cleaning head 14) allows the cleaning fluid to penetrate the bristles 172 of the cleaning roller 32. The scraper bar, through which the dirt fluid can be loosened and drained from the bristles 172, extends essentially over the entire length of the cleaning roller 32 (with the direction of the axis of rotation 96 as its longitudinal axis).

[0216] The scraper strip 176 is arranged and designed in such a way that it leads in a funnel shape to the outlet device 174.

[0217] 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.

[0218] When the cassette 92 is properly positioned on the cleaning head 14, the outlet 174 (with the flap 144 closed) is positioned so that it introduces the cleaning fluid directly into the cleaning fluid tank 42. Specifically, the conveyance of the cleaning fluid from the cleaning roller 32 into the cleaning fluid 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.

[0219] 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. A 501 227 t

[0220] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0221] - 31 -

[0222] 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.

[0223] 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.

[0224] 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.

[0225] 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.

[0226] In one embodiment, the cleaning machine 10 comprises an active

[0227] Lifting device to move the cassette holder 98 in one direction from an up- A 501 227 t

[0228] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0229] - 32 - to lift away from the mounting level, so that in particular the cleaning roller 32 is spaced away from this mounting level and is spaced away from the surface to be cleaned. In this context, reference is made to the

[0230] 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.

[0231] 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.

[0232] 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). Here, the side cleaning tool 270 is referred to as the first cleaning tool and the cleaning roller 32 as the second cleaning tool.

[0233] 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.

[0234] 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.

[0235] 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 relative to the cleaning roller 32 such that it touches the cleaning roller 32, or a minimum distance A 501 227 t

[0236] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0237] - 33 - in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 96 of at most 1 cm, or that it overlaps the cleaning roller 32.

[0238] 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.

[0239] 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.

[0240] 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.

[0241] 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.

[0242] In particular, the impact area 274 is designed to be compressible due to its self-supporting construction, so that as a rule the A 501 227 t

[0243] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0244] - 34 -

[0245] Holding area 278 does not come into contact with the surface to be cleaned or with a wall or the like.

[0246] In one embodiment, the actuation area 274 of the side cleaning tool 270 is designed as a circular disc, which is accordingly located on the holding area 278.

[0247] 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.

[0248] 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.

[0249] 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.

[0250] 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.

[0251] Reference is made in this context to DE 10 2024 109 736.1 of April 8, 2024. A 501 227 t

[0252] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0253] - 35 -

[0254] In one embodiment, the side cleaning tool 270 is further provided to be positionally and vertically displaceable relative to the cleaning head body 16. Reference is made in this context to DE 10 2024 109 736.1 dated April 8, 2024. By displacing the side cleaning tool 270 vertically relative to a mounting plane, the side cleaning tool 270 can be mounted in a floating position or moved 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 for cleaning purposes.

[0255] 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.

[0256] 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.

[0257] Dirt fluid is released at the scraper device 166 and coupled into the dirt fluid tank 42 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.) A 501 227 t

[0258] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0259] - 36 -

[0260] 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.

[0261] 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.

[0262] The dirty fluid tank 42 (Figures 3 to 13) comprises a container 302 and a lid 304. The container 302 has a side wall 306 and a container bottom 308 (see, for example, Figure 6). The container 302 has a receiving chamber 310 for dirty fluid, which is formed by the container bottom 308 and the side wall 306.

[0263] In one embodiment, the side wall 306 has an inner area 312 and an outer area 314 (see, for example, Figure 6). When the dirt fluid tank 42 is fixed to the cleaning head body 16, the inner area 312 faces the cleaning head body 16. The outer area 314 faces the outside and, in particular, defines the rear end 38.

[0264] With respect to a connecting line 316 of the interior area 312 with the container bottom 308, in one embodiment the interior area 312 of the side wall 306 is straight. The exterior area 314 is designed to be A 501 227 t

[0265] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0266] - 37 - corresponding connecting line 318 with the container bottom 308 is curved and in particular (as seen from the receiving space 316) is convexly curved.

[0267] The side wall 306 comprises a first lateral transition wall 320 and a second lateral transition wall 322 between the inner area 312 and the outer area 314. These lateral transition walls 320 and 322 are spaced apart from each other. A first lateral end 324 of the container 302 (and thus of the wastewater tank 42) is formed at the first lateral transition wall 320. A second end 326 of the container 302 (and thus of the wastewater tank 42) is formed at the second lateral transition wall 322.

[0268] The container base 302 has a first region 328, to which the inner region 312 is attached. This first region 328 is essentially flat. A second region 330 of the container base 308 is connected to the first region 328. The outer region 314 of the side wall 306 is attached to this second region 330. The second region 330 is inclined relative to the first region 328, such that, with respect to a vertical direction 332 (see Figure 3) of the container 302, which is oriented perpendicular to the first region 328 of the container base 308, the first region 328 of the container base 308 is lower than the second region 330.

[0269] When the dirt fluid tank 42 is attached to the cleaning head 14, the bottom of the container 308 forms part of the underside of the cleaning head 14.

[0270] A roller 336 is arranged on a central plane 334 (Figure 5) on the bottom of the container 308. This plane lies centrally between the first lateral end 324 and the second lateral end 326 and is oriented parallel to the vertical direction 332. The roller is rotatable about an axis 338. (At the cleaning head A 501 227 t)

[0271] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0272] - 38 -

[0273] The mounted dirt fluid tank 42 is additionally supported on the floor to be cleaned via this roller 336. In particular, the roller 336 lies on the installation level.

[0274] Alternatively, a sliding skid can be used, for example.

[0275] The recording chamber 310 is a continuous structure. No fixtures or similar elements are located within the recording chamber 310 that are spaced away from or not attached to the side wall 306. With respect to cross-sectional areas perpendicular to the vertical direction 332, the recording chamber 310 is topologically simply connected along these cross-sectional areas. This results in a large recording volume. In particular, no columns or similar structures are positioned within the recording chamber 310.

[0276] At a transition 340 between the side wall 306 and the container bottom 308 in the receiving chamber 310, a rounded and, in particular, concave shape is present in order to avoid, in particular, "sharp" edges in the receiving chamber 310. A corresponding rounding or concave shape is also present at the transition from the first area 328 to the second area 330 of the container bottom 308.

[0277] A recess 342 (see, for example, Figure 6) is arranged or formed on the bottom of the container 308. A depression is formed in the first area 328 of the bottom of the container 308 above the recess 342. The recess 342 has, for example, a circular shape.

[0278] The recess 342 is located on a corresponding container base section 344, which surrounds the recess 342. With respect to this container base section 344, the recess 342 has a base 346 that is lower in the vertical direction 332. The recess 342 serves to empty the container 302 via a discharge opening, in particular by suction, as described in more detail below. A 501 227 t

[0279] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0280] - 39 -

[0281] A transition 348 from the depression 342 to the container bottom area 344 is rounded and, for example, concave.

[0282] The recess 342 is offset from the central plane 334 (see Figure 5), i.e., off-center. It is located on the inner area 312 of the side wall 306 and projects, in particular, into the transition 340 there.

[0283] The lid 304 serves to openably and fluid-tightly close the container 302 with the receiving chamber 310. In one embodiment, the lid 304 is pivotally mounted on the container 302 and, in particular, on the inner area 312 of the side wall 306 via a pivot bearing 350 (Figure 3) about a pivot axis 352.

[0284] The pivot axis 352 lies transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the median plane 334. It is transversely and, in particular, perpendicular to the vertical direction 332.

[0285] It is at least approximately parallel to a distance direction between the first lateral end 324 and the second lateral end 326.

[0286] In this embodiment, the lid 304 is designed as a hinged lid. By pivoting it away from the container 302, the lid 304 can be opened accordingly (see Figure 6). It is possible for the lid 304 to be held securely against the container 302 by means of the pivot bearing 350, allowing it to pivot about the pivot axis 352.

[0287] In an alternative embodiment (Figure 9), a corresponding pivot bearing 350' is designed such that, when a certain pivot position is reached ("maximum pivot position"), the lid 304 can be removed from the container 302. A 501 227 t

[0288] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0289] - 40 -

[0290] It may be provided (see Figure 8) that the lid 304 of the dirty fluid tank 42 can be removed, for example, by removing locking pins on the pivot bearing 350. The lid 304 has an outer surface 354 and an opposing inner surface 356 (see, for example, Figure 6). When the lid 304 is closed, the inner surface 356 faces the bottom of the tank 308.

[0291] When (with the lid 304 closed) the dirt fluid tank 42 is attached to the cleaning head 14, then the outside 354 of the dirt fluid tank 42 faces the tank assembly 44 for cleaning fluid.

[0292] The lid 304 has an inlet port 358 for dirt fluid.

[0293] This input port 358 includes an opening 360 (see Figure 6) which extends through between the outer surface 354 and the inner surface 356. This opening 360 is located, in particular, on the central plane 334.

[0294] The inlet port 358 is designed for connection to the outlet device 174 of the cassette 92. With the dirt fluid tank 42 fixed to the cleaning head 14, dirt fluid can be coupled into the receiving chamber 310 via the inlet port 358 during operation of the cleaning machine 10.

[0295] A detachable emptying body 362 is fixed to the inside 356 of the lid 304 (Figures 5 to 9). The emptying body 362 serves to empty the receiving chamber 310, particularly when the lid 304 is closed, by pumping or suction, especially at a cleaning station.

[0296] In this embodiment, the emptying hollow body 362 is designed as an emptying tube. As described in more detail below, it extends between a first opening 384 and a second opening 386. It is completely closed, even when removed from the cover 304. A 501 227 t

[0297] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0298] - 41 -

[0299] In the illustrated embodiment, this emptying hollow body, in its design as an emptying pipe, has a circular cross-section. Other cross-sectional shapes, such as a rectangular or square cross-section, are also possible.

[0300] On the inside of the lid 356, a holder 364 (see, for example, Figure 6) is positioned for the emptying hollow body 362. This holder is specifically designed as an insert receptacle, which is open to the outside. When the lid 304 is closed, the insert receptacle is open towards the bottom 308 of the container.

[0301] The holder 364, in its design as an insert holder, is designed such that the emptying hollow body 362 is removable from the lid 304 and can be inserted into the holder 364.

[0302] The holder 364 is located on the inside 356 of the cover 304 in the area of ​​the opening 360. Starting from the central plane 334, it lies with a partial area 366 at an acute angle to this central plane 334 (when the cover 304 is closed).

[0303] A circumferential rim 368 is arranged on the inside of the lid 304. When the lid 304 is closed, this circumferential rim 368 is immersed in the receiving chamber 310 (see, for example, Figure 10). In one embodiment, a sealing device 370 is located on the rim 368, which, when the container 302 is closed, ensures a fluid-tight seal between the side wall 306 and the lid 304.

[0304] The dirty fluid tank 42 has a drain port 372 (see, for example, Figure 4). The dirty fluid tank 42 can be emptied via this drain port 372, even with the lid 304 closed, by suction or pumping out the dirty fluid. This can be done, for example, at a cleaning station, as described in more detail below. A 501 227 t

[0305] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0306] - 42 -

[0307] The drain connection 372 has an opening 374 through which, for example, a suction pipe or a suction hose can be passed in order to couple it with the drain hollow body 362.

[0308] The opening 374 has a first area 376, which lies at the edge 368 and at the holder 364. The holder 364 with the insert receptacle leads to this first area 376, so that the emptying hollow body 372 is in fluid-effective contact.

[0309] In one embodiment, the first area 376 lies on the central plane 334 when the cover 304 is closed.

[0310] The opening 374 also has a second area 378, which is located on the side wall 306 and specifically on the outer surface 314. This area is also located on the middle plane 334.

[0311] When the lid 304 is closed, the opening 374 of the drain connection 372 is formed by the second area 378 and the first area 376.

[0312] The emptying hollow body 362 is removable and attached to the inside 356 of the lid 304. It can be removed, particularly for cleaning (of the emptying hollow body 362 and the dirty fluid tank 42), when the lid 304 is open. See, for example, Figure 7.

[0313] In one embodiment, the emptying hollow body 362 comprises a first section 380 and a second section 382. The first section 380 serves to fix the emptying hollow body 362 to the lid 304. The second section 382 projects from the first section 380 into the receiving chamber 310 up to the bottom of the container 308 and thus to the recess 342. A 501 227 t

[0314] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0315] - 43 -

[0316] In one embodiment, the second section 382 is detachable from the first section 380 (see Figure 7).

[0317] The first section 380 has a first opening 384. This first opening serves for fluid-effective connection with the first area 376 of the opening 374 when the draining hollow body 362 is seated on the holder 364.

[0318] The emptying hollow body 362 has a second opening 386. This second opening 386 is located at the end of the second section 382. During an emptying process of the receiving chamber 310, dirty fluid can be drawn (or pumped) into the emptying hollow body 362 via the second opening 386.

[0319] The second section 382 forms a kind of protrusion which extends from the lid 304 parallel to the vertical direction 332 at a small acute angle to the vertical direction 332 from the lid 304 into the receiving space 310.

[0320] In one embodiment, the first section 380 has a first sub-section 388 and a second sub-section 390. These are connected to each other and, in particular, are integrally connected.

[0321] The first section 388 has the first opening 384. The second section 382 is detachably attached to the second section 390. The second section 382 can, for example, be plugged onto the second section 390 of the first section 380.

[0322] The first section 388 serves primarily to connect to the first section 376 of the opening 374. The second section 390 serves primarily to fix it to the holder 364.

[0323] The first subsection 388 has a longitudinal axis 392a, which is oriented transversely to a longitudinal axis 392b of the second subsection 390. The length of the A 501 227 t

[0324] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0325] - 44 - the length of the first sub-area 388 in the longitudinal axis 392a is smaller than the length of the second sub-area 390 along the longitudinal axis 392b.

[0326] The holder 364 is aligned such that the longitudinal axis 392b, when the emptying hollow body 362 is fixed, lies at an acute angle to the central plane 334 (when the lid 304 is closed).

[0327] In one embodiment, the emptying hollow body 362 is made of a flexible material (soft material), at least in some areas. This allows the emptying hollow body 362, at least with its first section 380, to be easily held on the holder 364, for example by clamping.

[0328] The emptying hollow body 362 is positioned on the lid 304 in such a way that, when the lid 304 is closed, the second section 382 of the emptying hollow body 362 extends to the bottom of the container 308 and to the recessed trough 342. This results in effective emptying.

[0329] It is specifically intended that the bottom of the container 308 is inclined towards the depression 342 during an emptying process. This can be achieved through design measures and / or by appropriately positioning the wastewater tank 42 during an emptying process.

[0330] In one embodiment, the second section 382 of the emptying hollow body 382 is immersed so far into the depression 342 that there is still a distance between the second opening 386 and the bottom 346 of the depression 342, but with respect to the vertical direction 332 the second opening 386 is located below the container bottom area 344.

[0331] In one embodiment, the drain connection 372 is arranged centrally (of the median plane 334) on the waste fluid tank 42. A 501 227 t

[0332] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0333] - 45 -

[0334] It is specifically intended that the drain connection 372 is positioned below an associated maximum level for dirty fluid in the dirty fluid tank 42 with respect to the vertical direction 332.

[0335] In one embodiment, a sensor device 394 is arranged on the lid 304, which serves to determine a fill level of dirt fluid in the receiving chamber 310 or at least to determine when a maximum level has been reached.

[0336] In one embodiment, the sensor device 394 comprises sensor elements which project from the inside 356 of the cover 304 into the receiving space 310.

[0337] The lid 304 is designed such that, when closed, it abuts the side wall 306, and in particular an end face of the side wall 306, with a region 396 which lies specifically outside the rim 368. This achieves a positive locking connection of the lid 304 to the container 302 with respect to the container bottom 308.

[0338] In one embodiment, the dirt fluid tank 42 is held on the cleaning head body 16 by the lid 304, and in particular suspended from it. Spaced-apart mounting receptacles 398a, 398b are provided on the lid for this purpose. These are located on the outer surface 354 of the lid 304.

[0339] The inlet port 358 for dirt fluid is positioned between the mounting brackets 398a, 398b (see Figure 3).

[0340] In another embodiment of a waste fluid tank, shown in Figure 18, a discharge hollow body 500 is provided, which is designed for fixing to a lid 304 for the container 302. In this embodiment of the discharge hollow body 500, it is formed in one piece and, in particular, as a single unit. A 501 227 t

[0341] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0342] - 46 -

[0343] It comprises a first section 502 and a second section 504. The second section 504 is designed as a trunk, which is attached to the first section 502.

[0344] In the embodiment shown, the second section 504 is at an obtuse angle to the first section 502.

[0345] The first section 502 is designed as an open channel 506. It has a channel base 508 and side walls 510. The side walls 510 are attached to the channel base 508 and, in particular, are integrally formed with it. Opposite the channel base 508, the channel 506 is open (not visible in Figure 18).

[0346] A holder 512 for inserting the emptying hollow body 500 is attached to the lid 304. The holder 512 serves as an insertion receptacle and is adapted accordingly to the shape of the first section 502.

[0347] A wall 514 of the cover 304 in the area of ​​the holder 512 forms a wall of the channel 506 for the complete closure of the channel 506.

[0348] When the emptying hollow body 500 is inserted into the holder 512 with its open side, which is opposite the channel bottom 508, it is inserted in such a way that the side walls 510 contact the wall 514 at an upper end face and a fluid-tight seal is achieved.

[0349] In one embodiment, a corresponding sealing device for fluid-tight sealing is attached to the holder 512 on the wall 514.

[0350] With the emptying hollow body 500 fixed, the emptying hollow body 500 is also completely closed at the first section 502 via the wall 514 of the cover 304. A 501 227 t

[0351] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0352] - 47 -

[0353] In this embodiment, the interior of the first section 502 can be effectively cleaned after removal of the cover 304 due to the open side of the channel 506 opposite the channel floor 508. The first section 502, particularly the area where the second section 504 is held, is cuboid in shape.

[0354] In a further embodiment of a drainage hollow body, shown in Figure 19 at a distance from the cover 304 and designated 520, a first section 522 and a second section 524 are provided. The first section 522 is cuboid in shape, at least in a partial area, with an open channel. A wall 526 of the manhole cover 304 completely closes this channel when the drainage hollow body 520 is properly inserted into the cover 304.

[0355] The first section 522 has a sleeve 528 attached. The second section 524 can be inserted into this sleeve 528 and fixed in place.

[0356] In this embodiment, the emptying hollow body 520 is designed in two parts, with the second section 524 being removable from the first section 522 for improved cleanability.

[0357] When inserted into the cover 304, the emptying hollow body 500 or 520 is in fluid-effective communication with the emptying port 372. The corresponding second section 504 or 524 projects into the receiving chamber 310 for coupling and, in particular, suctioning of dirty fluid from the receiving chamber 310.

[0358] A locking hook device 400 is provided to fix (lock) the lid 304 to the container 302 in the opposite direction. The locking hook device 400 is positioned so as to be slidable in a displacement direction 402 on the outside 354 of the lid 304 (see, for example, Figure 10). A 501 227 t

[0359] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0360] - 48 -

[0361] The locking hook assembly 400 comprises at least one locking hook 404. In the illustrated embodiment, two locking hooks 404 are provided (see Figure 11). Corresponding openings 406 are formed on the edge 368 through which the respective locking hook 404 can pass (see Figure 11).

[0362] In one embodiment, locking hooks 404 are positioned on both sides of the first area 376 of the opening 374, i.e. the first area 376 lies between locking hooks 404 and corresponding openings 406.

[0363] An engagement device 408, in particular in the form of an engagement recess for the locking hooks 404, is provided on the side wall 306 and specifically on the outer surface 314 (see, for example, Figure 10).

[0364] When a locking hook 404 engages in the engagement device 408, the lid 304 is fixed to the container 302 with respect to opening, and to open the lid 304 the locking hooks 404 must first be led out of the corresponding engagement recess 408.

[0365] The locking hook assembly 400 with the locking hooks 404 is spring-supported by a spring assembly 410 (see Figure 10). The spring assembly 410 is arranged and designed such that, in the closed position of the cover 304, it presses the locking hooks 404 into the engagement device 408. To release the locking hooks from the engagement device 408, the spring force of the spring assembly 410 must be overcome.

[0366] The dirty fluid tank 42 includes a locking device 412 for releasably locking the lid 304 to the container 302. The latching hook device 400 is part of this locking device 412. The locking device 412 is located on the lid 304, specifically on the outer surface 354 of the lid 304. In particular, no support elements for the locking device 412 are provided within the receiving space 310. A 501 227 t

[0367] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0368] - 49 -

[0369] A handle 414 (second handle) is located on the lid 304, specifically on the outer side 354, which can be pressed down onto the base of the container 308. It serves to release the fixing of the dirt fluid tank 42 to the cleaning head body 16.

[0370] The second handle 414 is located in the center of the lid 304 (relative to the center plane 334).

[0371] On the outer surface 354 of the cover 304, deflection elements 420 are pivotally attached to a pivot bearing assembly 418. In particular, each locking hook 404 is assigned a deflection element 420.

[0372] A pivot axis 422 of the pivot bearing assembly 418 is parallel to the pivot axis 352 of the cover 304 for mounting on the container 302. A deflection element 420 has a first web 422a and a second web 422b, which are connected at an angle to each other.

[0373] The locking hook device 400 has a receptacle 424 for each deflection element 420. The receptacle 424 is slidable with the locking hook device 400.

[0374] The first web 422a of the corresponding deflection element 420 is immersed in the respective receptacle 424.

[0375] A first handle 426 is mounted on the lid 304 and is pivotable about a pivot axis 428 (see Figure 11). This pivot axis 428 is, in particular, parallel to the pivot axis 352 or parallel to the pivot axis 422.

[0376] This first handle 426 surrounds the second handle 414 in a bow-like shape.

[0377] It is used to open the lid 304 on the container 302 by pulling. A 501 227 t

[0378] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0379] - 50 -

[0380] Pins 430 associated with the deflection elements 420 are positioned on the first handle 426, which can act on the second web 422b of the associated deflection element 420.

[0381] By pivoting the first handle 426 upwards, the deflection elements 422 are pivoted due to the contact of the second web 422b with the respective pins 430. This causes the locking hooks 404 to move out of the engagement device 408, and the locking mechanism is released. A first step in the opening process is achieved (see Figure 11 or Figure 12). The positive locking connection between the locking hooks 404 and the engagement device 408 is released. By further pulling on the first handle 426, the cover can then be fully opened, for example, to the position shown in Figure 6.

[0382] No elements of the locking device 402 required for the function of the locking device 402 are positioned within the receiving space 310. In particular, no support elements or the like are provided within the receiving space 310.

[0383] A cleaning station 450 is provided. The cleaning station 450 serves to empty, and in particular to automatically empty, the dirty fluid tank 42 when it is located on the cleaning machine 10, via the emptying hollow body 362. The cleaning station 450 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 450, and cleaning cleaning tools, and in particular the first cleaning tool 270 and the second cleaning tool 32 (in this context, reference is made to German patent application no.

[0384] 10 2024 122 020.8 of 2 August 2024), the refilling and in particular the automatic refilling of the tank device 44 etc. A 501 227 t

[0385] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0386] - 51 -

[0387] The cleaning station 450 comprises a base plate 452 with a ramp 454 for the floor cleaning machine 10. A superstructure 456 is attached to the base plate 452.

[0388] The assembly 456 includes a connection device 458 for the functional coupling of the floor cleaning machine 10.

[0389] For example, a charging contact is connected at the connection device 458.

[0390] According to the invention, it is provided that a suction pipe or suction hose 460 is positioned at the connection device 458.

[0391] This is fixed in position. The floor cleaning machine is then designed to approach cleaning station 450 in such a way that the suction pipe 460 is immersed in the drain port 372 (into the opening 374). Alternatively, it can be designed that, after the floor cleaning machine 10 is correctly positioned at cleaning station 450, the corresponding suction pipe 460 extends and connects to the drain port 372.

[0392] The cleaning station 450 has a suction device 462. This is fluidly coupled to the suction pipe 460. A corresponding suction flow can be generated. This suction flow then draws dirty fluid from the receiving chamber 310 of the cleaning station 450 and collects it in a corresponding container 464 of the cleaning station 450. The container 464 is removable and emptied.

[0393] According to the invention, a dirt fluid tank 42 is provided in which functional components are arranged on the lid 304.

[0394] The emptying hollow body 362 is designed to be fixed to the lid 304 in a detachable manner. It can then be removed and cleaned as needed. A 501 227 t

[0395] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0396] - 52 -

[0397] The intake volume of the intake chamber 310 is only minimally reduced by the drainage hollow body 362. A relatively large portion of the drainage hollow body 362 is positioned outside the maximum intake level of the intake chamber 310 (namely, the first section 380).

[0398] The emptying hollow body 362 extends to the recessed trough 342, resulting in an effective emptying process at the cleaning station 450.

[0399] In particular, the cleaning machine 10 with the dirt fluid tank 42 is positioned at the cleaning station 450 in such a way that, when an emptying process is to be carried out, the bottom of the container 308 of the dirt fluid tank 42 is inclined towards the recess 342 (see Figure 17).

[0400] This inclination is, for example, on the order of 3°. It is indicated in Figure 17 by reference numeral 466.

[0401] This allows for effective emptying with a high degree of emptying.

[0402] According to the invention, a dirty fluid tank 42 is provided, from which automated emptying at a cleaning station 450 can be easily carried out. The dirty fluid tank 42 can be easily cleaned by means of the emptying hollow body 362, which is held, in particular, removablely on the lid 304, including the emptying hollow body 362. For this purpose, an operator removes the dirty fluid tank 42 from the cleaning head 14, opens the lid 304, and then removes the emptying hollow body 362 and cleans it as well as the container 302 with the lid 304.

[0403] The locking device 412 allows the cover 304 to be opened easily. This effectively prevents unintentional opening during a cleaning process of the floor cleaning machine 10. A 501 227 t 14 August 2025 t-241

[0404] - 53 -

[0405] The locking device 412 is positioned on the outside 354 of the cover 304 and does not require any counter elements within the receiving space 310. This results in a large receiving volume for dirt fluid in the dirt fluid tank 42.

[0406] A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241

[0407] - 54 -

[0408] Reference symbol list

[0409] 10 cleaning machines

[0410] 14 Cleaning head

[0411] 16 cleaning head bodies

[0412] 18 Drive system

[0413] 20 wheels

[0414] 20a First wheel

[0415] 20b second wheel

[0416] 22 Wheel axle

[0417] 24 support roller

[0418] 26 Main direction of travel

[0419] 27 Longitudinal axis

[0420] 30 brush roller

[0421] 32 Cleaning roller (second cleaning tool)

[0422] 34 Navigation system

[0423] 36 Front end

[0424] 38 Rear end

[0425] 42, 42' Dirty fluid tank

[0426] 44 Tank system for cleaning fluid

[0427] 48 Top

[0428] 50 impact bodies

[0429] 52 Cliff sensor

[0430] 54 charging contacts

[0431] 55 additional charging contacts

[0432] 56 Battery system

[0433] 74a Side brush

[0434] 74b Side brush

[0435] 78 lids

[0436] 80 First lateral side

[0437] 82 second lateral side A 501 227 t

[0438] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0439] - 55 -

[0440] 84 recording

[0441] 86 Cross wall

[0442] 88 Opening

[0443] 90 lids

[0444] 92 cassette

[0445] 96 Rotation axis

[0446] 142 first pump

[0447] 144 flap

[0448] 166 Scraper device

[0449] 168 Sleeve

[0450] 172 crew

[0451] 174 Mouth device

[0452] 176 wiper strip

[0453] 200 drive motor

[0454] 270 Side cleaning tool (first cleaning tool)

[0455] 274 Area of ​​application

[0456] 278 stopping area

[0457] 282 Outside

[0458] 284 Rotation axis

[0459] 290 pump

[0460] 302 containers

[0461] 304 lids

[0462] 306 side wall

[0463] 308 Container bottom

[0464] 310 Recording Room

[0465] 312 Interior

[0466] 314 Outdoor area

[0467] 316 connecting line

[0468] 318 connecting line

[0469] 320 first lateral transition wall

[0470] 322 second lateral transitional wall

[0471] 324 first lateral end

[0472] 326 second lateral end A 501 227 t 14 August 2025 t-241

[0473] - 56 -

[0474] 328 first area

[0475] 330 second area

[0476] 332 Altitude direction (vertical axis)

[0477] 334 Middle level

[0478] 336 roll

[0479] 338 axle

[0480] 340 Transition

[0481] 342 Recessed trough

[0482] 344 Container bottom area

[0483] 346 Floor

[0484] 348 Transition

[0485] 350, 305' Swivel bearing

[0486] 352 Swivel axis

[0487] 354 Outside

[0488] 356 Inside

[0489] 358 Input connection

[0490] 360 opening

[0491] 362 Emptying hollow bodies

[0492] 364 holders

[0493] 366 Sub-area

[0494] 368 Rand

[0495] 370 Sealing device

[0496] 372 Drain connection

[0497] 374 Opening

[0498] 376 first area

[0499] 378 second area

[0500] 380 first section

[0501] 382 second section

[0502] 384 first opening

[0503] 386 second opening

[0504] 388 first sub-area

[0505] 390 second sub-area

[0506] 392a, 392b Longitudinal axis A 501 227 t 14 August 2025 t-241

[0507] - 57 -

[0508] 394 Sensor device

[0509] 396 area

[0510] 398a, 398b Holding device

[0511] 400 locking hook device

[0512] 402 Locking device

[0513] 404 Locking hooks

[0514] 406 Opening

[0515] 408 Intervention device

[0516] 410 Spring assembly

[0517] 412 Locking device

[0518] 414 Handle (second handle)

[0519] 416 counterpart

[0520] 418 Swivel bearing assembly

[0521] 420 Deflection element

[0522] 422 Swivel axis

[0523] 422a first jetty

[0524] 422b second jetty

[0525] 424 recording

[0526] 426 first handle

[0527] 428 Swivel axis

[0528] 430 pen

[0529] 450 cleaning station

[0530] 452 Base plate

[0531] 454 Entrance

[0532] 456 Construction

[0533] 458 Connection device

[0534] 460 extraction pipe

[0535] 462 Extraction system

[0536] 464 Container

[0537] 466 Inclination

[0538] 500 emptying hollow bodies (second embodiment)

[0539] 502 first section

[0540] 504 second section A 501 227 t

[0541] August 14, 2025 t-241

[0542] - 58 -

[0543] Channel 506

[0544] 508 Canal floor

[0545] 510 side walls

[0546] 512 holders

[0547] 514 Wall

[0548] 520 Emptying hollow body (third embodiment)

[0549] 522 first section

[0550] 524 second section

[0551] 526 Wall

[0552] 528 Sleeve

Claims

A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 59 - Patent claims 1. Dirty fluid tank for a floor cleaning machine, comprising a container (302) with a container bottom (308), with a side wall (306) and with a receiving chamber (310) for dirty fluid, and a lid (304) which opens to close the container (302) with the receiving chamber (310), characterized in that at least one of the following is arranged on the lid (304): a discharge hollow body (362; 500; 520) for draining dirty fluid from the receiving chamber (310); a locking device (402) for locking the lid (304) with the side wall (306).

2. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 1, characterized in that the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520) has at least one first opening (384) which is associated with an emptying connection (372) of the dirty fluid tank.

3. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520) has at least one second opening (386) which is positioned in the receiving space (310) when the lid (304) is closed and is positioned close to the bottom of the container (308) in particular.

4. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 3, characterized in that the at least one second opening (386) is positioned on or in a recess (342) of the container bottom (308) when the lid (304) is closed. A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 60 - 5. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520) has a first section (380; 502; 522) which is fixed to the lid (304).

6. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 5, characterized in that the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520) has a second section (382; 504; 524) which is attached to the first section (380; 502; 522) and which projects into the receiving space (310).

7. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by at least one of the following: the first section (380; 502; 522) is detachably fixed to the lid (304); the first section (380; 502; 522) is seated with at least a partial area on an inner surface (356) of the lid (304), which, when the lid (304) is closed, faces the bottom (308) of the container; the first section (380; 502; 522) has at least one first opening (384) which is associated with a drain connection (372) of the dirty fluid tank; the first section (380; 502; 522) has at least one sub-section which is oriented at an acute angle to a median plane (334) of the container (302), wherein the median plane (334) lies between lateral ends (324, 326) of the container (302); A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 61 - the first section (380) is fully enclosed and in particular designed as a hose or tube (362), or the first section (502; 522) is associated with a wall (514; 526) for enclosed design, which is part of the cover (304).

8. Dirty fluid tank according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the first section (380) has a first sub-section (388) and a second sub-section (390), wherein the first sub-section (388) is provided with at least one opening (384) and a second section (380) of the emptying hollow body (362) is located on the second sub-section (390).

9. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 8, characterized by at least one of the following: the first sub-section (388) is oriented transversely to the second sub-section (390); the first sub-section (388) is connected to or forms a drain connection (372) of the dirty fluid tank when the lid (304) is closed; the first sub-section (388) has a shorter length than the second sub-section (390); the first sub-section (388) and the second sub-section (390) are firmly and, in particular, integrally connected to each other. A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 62 - 10. Dirty fluid tank according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized by at least one of the following: the second section (382; 504; 522) projects into the receiving chamber (310) when the lid (304) is closed; at least one second opening (386) of the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520), through which dirty fluid can be coupled from the receiving chamber (310) into the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520), is located on the second section (382; 504; 524); the second section (382; 504; 524) is designed as a nozzle; The second section (382; 504; 524) extends from the first section (380; 502; 522) along the lid (304) to the bottom of the container (308) when the lid (304) is closed; the second section (382; 504; 524) is oriented transversely to the lid (304) and / or transversely to at least a partial area (390) of the first section (380); the second section (382; 504;524) has a longitudinal axis which is oriented parallel to or at an acute angle of at most 60° to a vertical axis (332) of the receiving space (310), with reference to the bottom of the container (308); the second section (382; 524) is detachable from the first section (380; 522); the second section (382; 524) is attached to the first section (380; 522) and / or the first section (380) is attached to the second section (382). A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 63 - 11. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520) is detachably attached to the lid (304).

12. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520) is made at least in one or more partial areas from a flexible material and in particular a soft material and in particular a rubber-like material.

13. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a holder (364; 512) for the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520) is arranged on the lid (304), in particular with at least one of the following: the holder (364; 512) is arranged on an inner side (356) of the lid (304), which faces the bottom (308) of the container when the lid (304) is closed; the holder (364; 512) is designed as an insert for the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520); the holder (364; 512) is located in the area of ​​an inlet opening (360) for dirty fluid, which is positioned on the lid (304) and through which dirty fluid can be coupled into the receiving space (310).

14. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a drain connection (372) is arranged on the dirty fluid tank, which is in fluid-effective connection with the drain hollow body (362; 500; 520). A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 64 - 15. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 14, characterized in that the drain connection (372) has at least one opening (374) for immersing a suction pipe (460) or suction hose.

16. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 15, characterized in that (i) the opening is arranged on the lid (304) and is connected to the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520), or (ii) the opening (374) has a first opening area (376) which is located on the lid (304) and is connected to the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520), and has a second opening area (378) which is located on the side wall (306), wherein when the lid (304) is closed the first opening area (376) and the second opening area (378) cooperate with each other and form the opening (374).

17. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 16, characterized in that the first opening area (376) is located on a lid edge (368) which is immersed in the receiving chamber (310) when the lid (304) is closed.

18. Dirty fluid tank according to one of claims 14 to 17, characterized by at least one of the following: the draining port (372) is located, with respect to a height direction (332), at a distance from the bottom of the tank (308) when the lid (304) is closed; the draining port (372) is located, with respect to a height direction (332) of the receiving space (310), above a maximum level for dirty fluid in the receiving space (310); the draining port (372) is located on a central plane (334) of the tank (302), wherein the central plane (334) is located with respect to lateral ends (324, 326); A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 65 - the drain connection (372) is on the same level (334) as a guide element (336) for a floor to be cleaned, which is positioned on the container (302).

19. Dirt fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side wall (306) has an inner area (312) and an outer area (314), wherein the inner area (312) faces a cleaning head body (16) of the floor cleaning machine when the dirt fluid tank is fixed to the floor cleaning machine and the outer area (314) of the side wall (306) faces away from the cleaning head body (16).

20. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 19, characterized by at least one of the following: the inner area (312) is straight with respect to a connecting line with the bottom of the tank (308); the outer area (314) is curved with respect to a connecting line with the bottom of the tank (308) and in particular is convexly curved.

21. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that a drain connection (372) is located on the outer surface (314).

22. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a transition (340) between the side wall (306) and the tank bottom (308) is rounded and in particular is concave. A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 66 - 23. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a recessed depression (342) is formed on the bottom of the tank (308), which is associated with the emptying hollow body (362; 500; 520), with at least one of the following: a transition (348) of the recessed depression (342) to a tank bottom area (344) on which the recessed depression (342) is located is rounded and in particular has a concave shape; a bottom (346) of the recessed depression (342) is lower than the rest of the tank bottom with respect to a height direction (332) of the receiving space (310); the recessed depression (342) projects into a transition (340) of the side wall (306) to the tank bottom (308); the depression (342) is closer to an interior area (312) of the side wall (306) than to an exterior area (314) of the side wall (306) and is located in particular on the interior area (312);The depression (342) is located off-center with respect to a central plane (334) between the lateral ends (324, 326) of the container (302).

24. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 23, characterized in that the tank bottom (308) has an inclination towards the depression (342) at least with respect to an emptying position of the dirty fluid tank. A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 67 - 25. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the following is arranged on the lid (304): an inlet connection (358) for dirty fluid for coupling dirty fluid into the receiving chamber (310); a sensor device (394) for determining a fill level of dirty fluid in the receiving chamber (310); a holding device for holding and, in particular, suspending the dirty fluid tank on the floor cleaning machine; at least one handle (426, 414), in particular for opening the lid (304); a sealing device (370) for fluid-tight sealing with the container (302).

26. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lid (304) is pivotably mounted on the container (302) and / or removable from the container (302).

27. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container (302) is simply connected and / or free of internal components with respect to cross-sectional areas perpendicular to a height direction (332) of the receiving space (310) and in particular is simply connected with respect to the cross-sectional areas.

28. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking device (402) is arranged on an outer side (354) of the lid (304). A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 68 - 29. Dirty fluid tank according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking device (402) has a latching hook device (400) with at least one latching hook (404), wherein an engagement device (408) is arranged on the side wall, which is associated with the at least one latching hook (404), and that the latching hook device (400) is slidably located on an outer surface (354) of the lid (304) and is in particular spring-supported.

30. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 29, characterized in that the locking hook device (400) is coupled to a handle (426) which is located on the lid (304) and serves in particular to open the lid (304).

31. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 30, characterized in that the handle (426) is pivotably mounted on the lid (304) and in particular is mounted on an outer side (354) of the lid (304).

32. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 30 or 31, characterized in that at least one deflecting element (420) is assigned to the handle (426) by which the locking hook device (400) can be brought into at least one non-engagement position with respect to the engagement device (408).

33. Dirty fluid tank according to claim 32, characterized by at least one of the following: the at least one deflecting element (420) is pivotably mounted on the lid (304) and in particular pivotably mounted on an outer side (354) of the lid (304); A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 69 - the at least one deflection element (420) has a first web (422a) which is coupled to the locking hook device (400) in such a way that it moves when the locking hook device (400) is moved and in particular performs a pivoting movement and / or that a movement of the first web (422a) causes a movement of the locking hook device (400); the at least one deflection element (420) has a second web (422b) which is connected to a first web (422a) and which can be coupled to or is coupled to the handle (426) and which causes a movement of the at least one deflection element (420) by means of the handle (426).

34. Floor cleaning machine comprising a cleaning head body (16), at least one cleaning roller (32) which is mounted on the cleaning head body (16) and rotates during a cleaning process, an application device for cleaning fluid by means of which the at least one cleaning roller (32) and / or a floor to be cleaned can be supplied with cleaning fluid, and at least one dirt fluid tank (42) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the dirt fluid tank (42) is in particular detachably fixed to the cleaning head body (16).

35. Floor cleaning machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one of the following: an outer surface (314) of the side wall (306) of the dirt fluid tank (42) forms at least a partial area of ​​an outer surface of the floor cleaning machine; the bottom of the tank (308) forms at least a partial area of ​​an underside of the floor cleaning machine; A 501 227 t August 14, 2025 t-241 - 70 - a drain connection (372) is arranged on an exterior (314) of the side wall (306).

36. Floor cleaning machine according to claim 34 or 35, characterized by a self-driving and self-steering design and in particular characterized by a design as a mopping robot.

37. Cleaning station for a floor cleaning machine according to one of claims 34 to 36, comprising a suction device (462) for dirt fluid with a suction pipe (460) or suction hose for coupling to the dirt fluid tank (42) and suction of dirt fluid from the receiving chamber (310).

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