Cleaning device, and method for cleaning a surface using a cleaning device

Abstract

The invention relates to a cleaning device, in particular in the form of a spray-extraction device, comprising: a suction unit; a dirty-water container for receiving a dirty liquid drawn in by the suction unit; a handpiece having a suction nozzle for placement against a surface to be cleaned; a fresh-water container for receiving cleaning liquid that can be dispensed onto the surface to be cleaned from a liquid outlet provided on the handpiece, wherein the liquid outlet is fluidically connected to the fresh-water container; and a cleaning-device hose which is fluidically connected or can be fluidically connected to the suction unit at one end and to the suction nozzle at the other end, wherein the cleaning device comprises a control element arranged or formed on the handpiece for activating and deactivating the suction unit and for activating and deactivating dispensing of the cleaning liquid. The invention also relates to an improved method for cleaning a surface using a cleaning device.

Description

[0001] A 501 242 z Applicant: Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG

[0002] October 17, 2025 Alfred-Kärcher-Strasse 28 - 40 z-390 / 415 71364 Winnenden

[0003] Cleaning device and method for cleaning a surface with a cleaning device

[0004] The invention relates to a cleaning device, in particular in the form of a spray extraction device, comprising a suction device, at least one liquid container for receiving a dirty solution sucked up with the suction device, a handpiece with a suction nozzle for applying to a surface to be cleaned and a cleaning device hose which is fluidly connected or connectable to the suction device on one side and to the suction nozzle on the other.

[0005] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for cleaning a surface with a cleaning device, in particular in the form of a spray extraction device, which cleaning device comprises a suction device, at least one liquid container for receiving a dirty water solution sucked up with the suction device, a handpiece with a suction nozzle for contact with a surface to be cleaned and a cleaning device hose which is fluidly connected or connectable to the suction device on one side and to the suction nozzle on the other.

[0006] A cleaning device of the type described above is known, for example, from unpublished German patent application 10 2022 111 009.5. In the known spray extraction device, all functions are activated by a main switch on the cleaning device body. In other words, switching on the main switch activates the suction device and also a cleaning fluid pump for conveying cleaning fluid from the fresh water tank to the fluid outlet. The fluid dispensing in the known device is controlled by a valve. Due to the operating concept of the known spray extraction device, all essential components of the cleaning device are supplied with electrical energy as long as the cleaning device is switched on.

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[0008] - 2 - is. The energy consumption of such a cleaning device is therefore correspondingly high.

[0009] A carpet cleaning machine is known from DE 28 36 248 Al. A vacuum cleaner is described in DE 195 38 342 Al. A vacuum cleaner with a water pump is disclosed in CN 201445459 U. US 2024 / 0335078 Al deals with a surface cleaning device.

[0010] It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve a cleaning device and a method of the type described above in such a way as to enable efficient operation of the cleaning device.

[0011] This problem is solved in a cleaning device of the type described above according to the invention by the fact that the cleaning device comprises an operating device arranged or formed on the handpiece for activating and deactivating the suction device and for activating and deactivating a dispensing of the cleaning fluid.

[0012] The cleaning device, as proposed, allows the user to selectively activate and deactivate the suction unit and / or the dispensing of the cleaning fluid. The electrical components for this are only supplied with power when actually needed. Furthermore, such a cleaning device is easy to handle and ergonomically advantageous for the user. In particular, the user can activate and deactivate the suction unit and the dispensing of the cleaning fluid with the hand holding and guiding the handpiece. This eliminates the need to operate any controls on the device body. The user's other hand remains free for other tasks. The cleaning fluid can be, in particular, water without additives, such as tap water or demineralized water. A 501 242 z

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[0014] - 3 -

[0015] It is advantageous if a movable cleaning element is arranged or designed on the handpiece and if the operating device is designed to activate and deactivate a drive mechanism for moving the cleaning element. This design allows the user, in particular, to move the cleaning element precisely as needed to mechanically treat soiling on the surface to be cleaned, especially on upholstery, thus removing soiling not only with the cleaning fluid but also mechanically with the cleaning element itself. The cleaning element can also be activated with the user's hand, which holds the handpiece.

[0016] The cleaning device can be easily designed if the cleaning element is in the form of a rotatable brush roller. This can be positioned or designed specifically between the liquid outlet and the suction nozzle.

[0017] According to a further preferred embodiment, the cleaning device may include a detergent dispensing unit for adding detergent to the cleaning fluid before dispensing it onto the surface to be cleaned, and the operating device may be designed to activate and deactivate the detergent dispensing unit. Adding a detergent to the cleaning fluid can, in particular, loosen and remove stubborn soiling even more effectively. Specifically, the detergent used may contain chemical substances adapted to the type of soiling, which dissolve the soiling without damaging the surface to be cleaned, for example, the upholstery of a car seat.

[0018] It is advantageous if the cleaning agent dispensing device includes a cleaning agent pump for conveying cleaning agent from a cleaning agent container enclosed within the cleaning device to the fluid outlet connected to it. The operating device can therefore be used, in particular, to activate and deactivate the cleaning agent pump. (See A 501 242 z)

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[0020] - 4 - is therefore only operated if cleaning agent is actually to be applied to the surface to be cleaned along with the cleaning fluid, for example water.

[0021] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the operating device is arranged on the handpiece or designed for one-handed operation of the cleaning device's functions that can be activated and / or deactivated with it. This design has the particular advantage that a user can hold the handpiece with a single hand and simultaneously activate and deactivate all relevant functions of the cleaning device without needing a second hand or having to reposition their hand holding the handpiece, i.e., without having to change the hand's position with that hand.

[0022] The control unit and handpiece are advantageously designed to be detachably connected. This allows the handpiece to be equipped with different control units. In particular, this enables the use of control units with large buttons and displays for users who have difficulty with small buttons and displays. Furthermore, it is optionally possible to use a mobile device, such as a smartphone, as the control unit and to connect it to the handpiece when using the cleaning device. For example, a holder for a mobile device can be provided on the handpiece for this purpose. Alternatively, the control unit can be integrated into the handpiece. This allows for a particularly ergonomic integration of the control unit into the handpiece.

[0023] For cleaning devices that include handpieces without operating controls, it can be advantageous if a mobile device, particularly a smartphone, serves as or incorporates the operating controls. Such a design offers, in particular, the option of retrofitting existing cleaning devices, for example, with a communication device within the cleaning device that enables data and information exchange between the cleaning device and the mobile device via a standard A 501 242 z

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[0025] - 5 -

[0026] Wireless standards, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, make this possible. This allows the proposed operating concept for the cleaning device to be easily retrofitted to conventional cleaning devices.

[0027] According to a further preferred embodiment, the handpiece may have a grip area, the operating device may include a first control element for activating and deactivating the suction device, and the first control element may be arranged or formed on the grip area, in particular on the upper surface of the grip area. This design allows a user, in particular, to operate the first control element with the hand with which they are holding the handpiece by the grip area, for example, with their thumb.

[0028] Preferably, the operating device comprises a second control element for activating and deactivating the drive unit for moving the cleaning element, and the second control element is arranged or formed on the handle area, in particular on the upper surface of the handle area. The user can also operate the second control element with a finger of the hand holding the handpiece, for example, also with their thumb, to activate and deactivate the drive unit.

[0029] It is advantageous if the operating device includes a fourth control element for activating and deactivating the liquid dispensing, and if the fourth control element is located or designed on the handle area, particularly on the back of the handle area. This design allows a user, in particular, to operate the fourth control element with another finger of their hand, for example, the index or middle finger, without having to release their hand from the handle area.

[0030] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the cleaning device includes a cleaning fluid pump for conveying cleaning fluid from the fresh water tank to the fluid outlet, and if the fourth control element A 501 242 z

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[0032] - 6 - ment is designed to activate and deactivate the cleaning fluid pump. This design ensures that cleaning fluid can only be dispensed when the cleaning fluid pump is activated.

[0033] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the operating device includes a third control element for activating and deactivating the cleaning agent dispensing device, and if the third control element is located or designed on the handle area, particularly on the back of the handle area. The third control element can be used, in particular, to activate or deactivate the cleaning agent pump of the cleaning agent dispensing device. Here, too, a user can use, for example, their index or middle finger. In particular, the third and fourth control elements can be arranged one behind the other in a longitudinal direction of the handle area such that the fourth control element can be operated with the middle finger and the third control element with the index finger.Furthermore, the third control element can be designed such that, when activated, it not only activates and deactivates the cleaning agent dispensing device, but also simultaneously activates the cleaning fluid pump to deliver cleaning agent, allowing cleaning fluid to be dispensed via the handpiece. This ensures, in particular, that the cleaning agent is not applied undiluted, i.e., without cleaning fluid, to the surface to be cleaned.

[0034] Advantageously, the operating elements of the control unit are designed as electrical pushbuttons and / or switches. Communication between the operating elements of the control unit and, in particular, a control and / or regulating unit of the cleaning device can thus be wired via at least one control line or wirelessly via radio. The control unit can be powered, for example, by a battery, preferably a rechargeable battery, if no wired connection to the control and / or regulating unit is required. A 501 242 z

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[0036] - 7 -

[0037] According to a further preferred embodiment, the cleaning device may include a display device for showing the operating states of functions that can be activated and deactivated by the control device. The display device enables a user, in particular, to immediately recognize which functions of the cleaning device are activated or deactivated. The operating states can be indicated to the user, for example, visually or audibly.

[0038] Preferably, the display device is arranged or integrated into the handpiece. This way, the user has the suction nozzle in view during cleaning anyway and can immediately see the operating status of the cleaning device on the handpiece without having to take their eyes off the surface to be cleaned.

[0039] In principle, it is conceivable and also advantageous to permanently and inseparably connect the display unit and the handpiece as intended. However, it is also advantageous to design the display unit and the handpiece to be detachably connected. For example, a display unit can be retrofitted to the handpiece in this way. A mobile device, such as a smartphone, can be used for this purpose.

[0040] The handpiece can be designed to be particularly compact if the operating device includes the display device.

[0041] Preferably, the display of the mobile device serves as the display unit. This design has the particular advantage that the necessary application, i.e., a software program installed on the mobile device, can be updated at any time. Furthermore, it also offers the option of allowing the user to arrange the controls as desired, provided the software program running on the mobile device permits this. If the display of the mobile device is a touchscreen, controls and indicators can be easily displayed, activated, and deactivated. A 501 242 z

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[0044] It is advantageous if the display device includes a first indicator element to show the operating status of the suction device. A user can then immediately see whether the suction device is activated or deactivated. For example, this can be indicated by a green illuminated symbol.

[0045] Advantageously, the first display element is spatially aligned with the first control element. This allows the user to operate the cleaning device particularly intuitively.

[0046] It is advantageous if the display device includes a second indicator element for showing the operating status of the drive unit. This allows the user, in particular, to immediately recognize whether the drive unit is activated or deactivated, and thus whether the cleaning element is moving or not.

[0047] For intuitive operation of the cleaning device, it is advantageous if the second display element is spatially located adjacent to the second control element. For example, the second display element could include a suitable symbol that lights up in color, such as green, when activated.

[0048] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the display device includes at least one indicator for showing the fill level of the dirty water tank and / or the clean water tank. Designing the display device in this way has the particular advantage that it can be shown directly to the user at the handpiece when one or both tanks of the cleaning device have a fill level at which either the dirty water tank is so full that it needs to be emptied, or the clean water tank is so empty that it needs to be refilled in order to continue cleaning with the cleaning device. The display device can include a single indicator for both tanks, so that A 501 242 z

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[0050] - 9 - initially, a non-specific display indicates which container needs to be emptied or filled. However, the display device can also include a separate display element for each container in order to show the user the fill level of each container separately – especially critical fill levels.

[0051] According to a further preferred embodiment, the cleaning device may include a main switch for turning the cleaning device on and off, and the main switch may be arranged or formed on a part of the cleaning device body. In particular, it may be arranged or formed on the top surface of the cleaning device body. The main switch merely puts the cleaning device into a ready-to-use state. The respective functions of the cleaning device can be activated and deactivated as described via the operating device on the handpiece.

[0052] Ideally, the main switch is paired with an operating status indicator for the cleaning device. This can be a visual indicator, for example, a color-changing display to signal to the user that some action is required, such as emptying or refilling a container. Alternatively, the indicator can simply show that the cleaning device is switched on and ready for operation. In this case, for instance, the indicator might glow green. Optionally, it can also change color, such as yellow or red, when action is required, for example, to empty or refill a container.

[0053] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the cleaning device has a control and / or regulating device that interacts with the operating device for controlling the suction device, the cleaning fluid pump, the drive device for the cleaning element and the cleaning agent dispensing device. A 501 242 z

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[0055] - 10 - tung includes. Control signals generated or emitted by the operating device can then be easily passed on from the control and / or regulating device to the respective component.

[0056] For communication between the operating device and the control and / or regulating device, it is advantageous if they interact via wired or wireless means, particularly radio. A wired solution requires at least one control cable, which can, for example, run along or inside the cleaning device hose from the cleaning device body to the handpiece. Such cabling is unnecessary with wireless communication, such as via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

[0057] According to a further preferred embodiment, the cleaning device may include a control device for determining and displaying a value corresponding to the suction nozzle's position on the surface to be cleaned. Such a control device makes it possible, in particular, to check whether the suction nozzle is optimally positioned on the surface to be cleaned. If it is tilted during placement or if the surface is strongly curved, leaks occur in the area of ​​the suction nozzle and its suction inlet, allowing air to flow laterally into the suction nozzle through the suction inlet. The airflow is then no longer drawn solely through the fabric of, for example, an upholstery being cleaned. This reduces the negative pressure in the suction flow path between the suction nozzle and the suction unit. Consequently, the drying result is also impaired.To improve this, a user would then have to repeatedly go over the surface to be cleaned with the suction nozzle. The proposed control device, however, assists the user during cleaning. A system value is determined and displayed to the user. This system value corresponds to the nozzle system on the surface to be cleaned. This refers in particular to how well, for example, the suction nozzle is sealed against the surface being cleaned. The better sealed the suction nozzle, the better the nozzle system. The better the nozzle system, the less leakage air (A 501 242 e.g.).

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[0059] - 11 - can flow into the suction airflow. The negative pressure generated by the suction device in the suction airflow can therefore be maximized by a well-designed nozzle system. The greater the negative pressure in the suction airflow, the more efficiently the surface to be cleaned can be vacuumed. Consequently, the drying result can be significantly improved. With the suction nozzle optimally positioned on the surface to be cleaned, i.e., with an optimal nozzle system, a single pass of the suction nozzle over the surface is usually sufficient. Unlike conventional cleaning devices where a sight glass on the suction nozzle indicates even slight fluid movement and thus encourages the user to pass the surface over it multiple times, the cleaning device, as proposed, offers objective support to the user during cleaning through its control system.For example, the system value can be displayed in such a way that the user is objectively informed about the drying result, regardless of their subjective impression. The system value can be displayed qualitatively or quantitatively; quantitatively, for example, by providing a numerical value. Qualitatively, the system value can be displayed, in particular, by a color signal or a visual signal indicating to the user that, for example, the suction nozzle is not optimally positioned against the surface being cleaned, meaning the nozzle system is not functioning optimally. If a user treats the surface taking the displayed system value into account, they can clean and, in particular, dry it more quickly and efficiently. This has the advantage, for example, with battery-operated cleaning devices, that the limited energy available from a rechargeable battery, for instance, can be used optimally.Unnecessary repainting of an already sufficiently dry surface can therefore be avoided by the proposed control device.

[0060] It is advantageous if the control device includes at least one sensor device for measuring at least one extraction parameter and a data processing unit that interacts with the at least one sensor device. A 501 242 z

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[0062] - 12 - Control device for determining the system value as a function of at least one extraction parameter. In this case, the control device is therefore designed in particular to enable an objective measurement of at least one extraction parameter. The at least one measured extraction parameter is then processed by the data processing device, and the system value is determined as a function of the at least one extraction parameter, in particular by calculation. The data processing device may in particular also be designed in the form of or include an electronic comparison circuit. Sensor devices may in particular be designed in the form of a vacuum sensor or a particle sensor. The vacuum sensor may in particular be positioned so that a vacuum in the suction flow path between the suction nozzle and the suction device can be measured with it.A particle sensor can be positioned as an alternative or additional measure to the vacuum sensor for measuring particles, especially on the handpiece, directly after a suction inlet of the suction nozzle.

[0063] Advantageously, the display device is designed to indicate the specific system value, particularly visually, audibly, and / or haptically. For example, the system values ​​can be displayed quantitatively and / or qualitatively. A qualitative indication can, for instance, be in the form of a color signal. A green color signal can indicate to a user, in particular, that the nozzle system is functioning correctly. A red signal can, for example, indicate a malfunctioning nozzle system. System values ​​can be displayed visually, and in particular, separately for each sensor if multiple sensors are used. Optionally, a single system value can also be displayed, which is determined from several extraction parameters measured by multiple sensors, particularly through calculation.A faulty nozzle system can also be signaled acoustically or haptically by a movable slider that is controlled by the control device.

[0064] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the display device includes an optical display element to generate a signal corresponding to the asset value, an A 501 242 z.

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[0066] - 13 - Recommended direction of movement for the handpiece indicated by a running light signal. Such an optical display element can, in particular, be assigned to a system value that is determined by identifying the particles with the particle sensor. Thus, different display elements can be provided to indicate specific display parameters in the form of system values ​​using different sensor devices. A user can therefore clean a surface in a simple and intuitive way.

[0067] The problem set out at the beginning is further solved in a method of the type described at the beginning according to the invention in that the suction device is activated and deactivated by actuation by an operating device arranged or formed on the handpiece and that the dispensing of the cleaning fluid is activated and deactivated by actuation of the operating device.

[0068] As already explained above in connection with the cleaning device according to the invention, a user can easily and safely clean a surface, in particular the upholstery of a car seat or a piece of seating furniture.

[0069] The following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, in conjunction with the drawing, serves for further explanation. The drawing shows:

[0070] Figure 1: a perspective view of an embodiment of a cleaning device from the front in a storage position;

[0071] Figure 2: a perspective view of the arrangement from Figure 1 from behind;

[0072] Figure 3: a view of the arrangement from Figure 2 in the direction of arrow A;

[0073] Figure 4: a perspective view of the arrangement from Figure 1 with the liquid containers removed; A 501 242 z

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[0076] Figure 5: a sectional view of the cleaning device in a plane perpendicular to the impeller axis;

[0077] Figure 6: a partially cut-away side view of the cleaning device from Figure 2 in the direction of arrow A;

[0078] Figure 7: a partially cutaway view of the cleaning device without the liquid container;

[0079] Figure 8: a perspective exploded view of the two liquid containers;

[0080] Figure 9: a sectional view of the two liquid containers in the working position along line 9-9 in Figure 8;

[0081] Figure 10: an enlarged perspective partial view of the cleaning device in the area of ​​a hose attachment device;

[0082] Figure 11: an enlarged partial view of the cleaning device in the area of ​​a connection cable holding device;

[0083] Figure 12: a view similar to Figure 11 of the connecting cable holding device with pivoted safety projection;

[0084] Figure 13: a schematic representation of the cleaning device in the transport position with the transport handle extended when carried by a user;

[0085] Figure 14: a partially cutaway view of the transport device in the area of ​​the transport handle in a plane parallel to the rear of the device; A 501 242 z

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[0088] Figure 15: a schematic representation of the cleaning device being pulled by a user in the manner of a trolley;

[0089] Figure 16: a schematic perspective view of a cleaning device placed on a staircase with the stair support device activated;

[0090] Figure 17: a partial sectional view of the cleaning device from Figure 16 in a plane parallel to the back of the device;

[0091] Figure 18: another perspective view of the arrangement from Figure 16;

[0092] Figure 19: a schematic representation of an operating mode of the cleaning device on a display device on a handpiece of the cleaning device;

[0093] Figure 20: a view analogous to Figure 19 when depicting a different operating motor;

[0094] Figure 21: a view analogous to Figure 19 when illustrating another operating mode;

[0095] Figure 22: a view analogous to Figure 19 when illustrating another operating mode;

[0096] Figure 23: a partially enlarged view of the cleaning device with fill level indicators of the two liquid containers;

[0097] Figure 24: a partial view of one side of the cleaning device, with the two level indicators showing the first fill positions of the liquid containers; A 501 242 z

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[0100] Figure 25: a view analogous to Figure 24, where the two level indicators show different fill positions of the liquid containers;

[0101] Figure 26: a partial view of the cleaning device with main switch and cleaning agent tank level indicator;

[0102] Figure 27: a view analogous to Figure 26 with a half-full cleaning agent container;

[0103] Figure 28: a view analogous to Figure 26 with an empty cleaning agent container;

[0104] Figure 29: a schematic perspective view of the cleaning device during the cleaning of an upholstery;

[0105] Figure 30: an enlarged perspective view of a handpiece of the cleaning device with flexible suction nozzle;

[0106] Figure 31: a perspective view of the arrangement from Figure 30 from below;

[0107] Figure 32: an exploded view of the arrangement from Figure 30;

[0108] Figure 33: a longitudinal sectional view of the arrangement from Figure 30;

[0109] Figure 34: a sectional view along line 34-34 in Figure 33;

[0110] Figure 35: a sectional view along line 35-35 in Figure 33;

[0111] Figure 36: a partially open exploded view of the suction nozzle in the area of ​​the suction inlet;

[0112] Figure 37: a cross-sectional view of the arrangement from Figure 36 in a coupled position; A 501 242 z

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[0115] Figure 38: a partial view of the arrangement from Figure 31 with the nozzle attachment removed;

[0116] Figure 39: a perspective view of the nozzle attachment looking towards a nozzle attachment coupling section;

[0117] Figure 40: a perspective view of the nozzle attachment looking towards the deformable suction system element;

[0118] Figure 41: a schematic flowchart to illustrate an assistance function of the cleaning device;

[0119] Figure 42: a schematic representation of an embodiment of a cleaning device with an electrical energy storage device;

[0120] Figure 43: a schematic representation of an embodiment of a cleaning device with a control device;

[0121] Figure 44: another schematic representation of an embodiment of a cleaning device; and

[0122] Figure 45: another schematic representation of an embodiment of a cleaning device in the form of a suction device.

[0123] Figures 1 to 18 schematically illustrate an embodiment of a cleaning device 10. It is designed in the form of a spray extraction device 12.

[0124] The cleaning device 10 comprises a cleaning device body 14. A 501 242 z

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[0127] The cleaning device body 14 is equipped with a suction device 16, at least one liquid container 18 for receiving a dirty water liquor sucked up by the suction device 16 and a transport device 20 with at least one wheel 22.

[0128] The drive mechanism 20 defines a support level 24. This protrudes beyond a device underside 26 of the cleaning device body 14.

[0129] In the illustrated embodiment of the cleaning device 10, the suction device 16 is spatially positioned between the support surface 24 and the at least one liquid container 18. This arrangement is particularly evident in Figures 5 and 6.

[0130] The cleaning device body 14 further comprises a top surface 28, which runs parallel or substantially parallel to the bottom surface 26 or to the base 24. A vertical axis defined by the cleaning device body 14 runs transversely, i.e., perpendicularly, to the base 24. This axis, in turn, runs parallel to the direction of gravity 32, which is symbolized by an arrow in Figure 6.

[0131] A device height 34 parallel to the vertical axis 30 corresponds to a distance 36 from the top of the device 28 to the base plane 24. A perpendicular projection of the device housing onto the base plane 24 defines a base area 38 of the cleaning device 10. A device width 40 and a device length 42 define the base area 38. The base area 38 extends perpendicular to the device height 34. The device height 34 is greater than the device length 42. The device height 34 is also greater than the device width 40. This holds true in any section plane perpendicular to the vertical axis 30.

[0132] The device width 40 is defined as the distance between two opposing device sides 44 and 46. The device length 42 is defined as the distance between a device front 48 and a device rear 50 facing away from it. A 501 242 z

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[0135] A front upper edge 52 of the cleaning device body 14 is formed between the front 48 and the top 28 of the device. A rear lower edge 74 is formed between the rear 50 and the bottom 26 of the device. A cutting plane 56 of the cleaning device 10, which includes the front upper edge 52 and the rear lower edge 54, intersects the drive mechanism 20, the suction device 16, and the at least one liquid container 18.

[0136] The cleaning device body 14 is cuboid or essentially cuboid in shape. The front side 48 of the device is aligned parallel or essentially parallel to the rear side 50 of the device. The two sides 44 and 46 of the device are aligned parallel or essentially parallel to each other.

[0137] The cleaning device body 14 has a center of gravity 58, the position of which is shown schematically in Figure 3. A distance 60 of the center of gravity 58 from the rear of the device 50 is less than a distance 62 of the center of gravity 58 from the front of the device 48.

[0138] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the driving device 20 comprises a total of four wheels 22, thus at least two wheels 22.

[0139] In the embodiment shown in the figures, two of the four wheels 22 are designed to be steerable, namely in the form of caster wheels 64. These protrude at least partially beyond the underside 26 of the device, as can be clearly seen in Figure 3.

[0140] The casters 64 define caster axes 66 running parallel to the support plane 24. Furthermore, the casters 64 are rotatable about caster axes 68 parallel or substantially parallel to the vertical axis 30. This design makes it possible to rotate the stationary cleaning device 10 on the spot without having to lift it. A 501 242 z

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[0143] Two of the wheels 22 are designed in the form of running wheels 70. These define a common running wheel axis 72, which runs parallel to the support plane 24 and parallel to the device width 40.

[0144] The swivel casters 64 have a swivel diameter 74, the running wheels 70 a running wheel diameter 76. The running wheel diameter 76 is significantly larger than the swivel caster diameter 74. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the ratio of the two diameters is approximately 3.4:1.

[0145] The two wheels 70 protrude partially both from the underside of the device 26 and from the back of the device 50.

[0146] The suction device 16 includes a fan 78 for generating a negative pressure. The fan 78 includes an impeller 80 for conveying air. A fan drive 82, shown schematically in Figure 7 and in the form of an electric motor, serves to drive the impeller 80. The fan drive 82 is arranged or formed between the two impellers 70. The impeller axis 72 intersects the fan drive 82.

[0147] The fan impeller 80 is arranged or formed between the impeller axis 72 and the at least one fluid reservoir 18. The fan impeller axis 84 is inclined relative to the vertical axis 30, but slightly less than the section plane 56 with respect to the vertical axis 30.

[0148] A vertical projection of the wheels 70 onto the support plane 24 limits a wheel projection surface 86.

[0149] A perpendicular projection of the center of gravity 58 onto the support plane 24 lies within the wheel projection surface 86. A 501 242 z

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[0152] The cleaning device 10 can be pivoted from a stationary position, as schematically shown in Figure 6, in which the base 24 is oriented perpendicular to the direction of gravity 32, about the impeller axis 72 into a pulling position, schematically shown in Figure 15. In the pulling position, the center of gravity 58 is positioned above or substantially above the impeller axis 72. However, the exact position of the center of gravity 58 in the pulling position depends on how the cleaning device 10 is pulled and the height of the user 212. This will be explained in more detail later.

[0153] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the at least one liquid container 18 forms at least a part of the top of the device 28. This can be seen particularly well in Figure 6.

[0154] The cleaning device 10, schematically depicted in the figures, comprises two liquid containers 18. One of the two liquid containers 18 is designed in the form of a dirty water container 88, the other in the form of a fresh water container 90. The fresh water container 90 forms at least part of the device's front 48.

[0155] The compact cleaning device 10 assumes a stationary position during the intended operation of the cleaning device 10.

[0156] The wastewater tank 88 has a wastewater tank base 92, which projects away from the top of the unit 28. A wastewater inlet 94 and an air outlet 96 are arranged or formed on the wastewater tank base 92. The wastewater tank 88 and the fresh water tank 90 can be coupled together. For this purpose, two recesses 98 are provided for the positive or substantially positive engagement of corresponding projections 100 of the fresh water tank 90.

[0157] A filling opening 102 is provided on the fresh water tank 90, specifically in an upper area of ​​the A 501 242 z as shown schematically in Figure 5.

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[0159] - 22 -

[0160] The filling opening 102 of the cleaning device 10 points towards the wastewater tank 88 in a ready-to-use position. A closing element 104 is provided for closing the filling opening 102.

[0161] The filling opening 102 is located in an area between the projections 100 of the fresh water tank 90. ​​This design allows the fresh water tank to be filled while lying down, i.e., in a position rotated 90° relative to the orientation of the fresh water tank 88 shown in Figure 5, so that the filling opening 102 points against the direction of gravity 32 during filling. The fresh water tank 90 can thus be filled with fresh water, which forms a cleaning fluid, from a tap until the water level reaches the filling opening 102.If the filled fresh water tank 90 is pivoted back by 90° to its upright position as schematically shown in Figure 5, the incoming fresh water can flow, in particular, into the two indentations of the fresh water tank 90 formed by the projections 100, so that the fill level of the fresh water tank 90 is lower in the direction of gravity 32 than the filling opening 102. Fresh water cannot escape from the fresh water tank 90 even if a user forgets to close the filling opening 102 with the closing element 104.

[0162] The two liquid containers 18 are designed to be detachably connected. In a separation position shown schematically in Figure 8, they are completely separated from each other. In an operating position, as shown schematically in Figure 4, the wastewater container 88 and the fresh water container 90 are coupled together. In the operating position, the wastewater container 88 overlaps the fresh water container 90 at least partially, in fact completely, as can be clearly seen in Figures 3, 4, 5, and 6.

[0163] The cleaning device includes the following components for coupling the two liquid containers 18.

[0164] 10 a liquid container coupling device 106. This comprises on the A 501 242 z

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[0166] - 23 - coupling elements 108, 110 and 112 arranged or formed between both liquid containers 18, which are disengaged in the separation position and are engaged by force and / or form locking in the working position.

[0167] One of the coupling elements, namely the coupling element 112, is formed on a pivotable locking lever 114. It points, contrary to the direction of gravity 32, towards a section of the wastewater tank 88 that projects above the fresh water tank 90. ​​In the coupled position, the coupling element 112 engages in a groove-shaped coupling element 110.

[0168] On the underside of the fresh water tank 90, projections are formed which are not shown in the figures and which can be inserted into coupling elements 108 formed on both sides of the two recesses 90 on the waste water tank 88, forming receptacles.

[0169] To decouple the fresh water tank 90 from the dirty water tank 88, the locking lever 114 must be grasped on a handle section 116 and moved against the direction of gravity 32. The coupling element 112 then releases the coupling element 110, allowing the fresh water tank 90 to pivot forward out of the cleaning unit body 14 about a pivot axis defined by the coupling elements 108 and be removed from the dirty water tank 88. Separating the fresh water tank 90 from the dirty water tank 88, and vice versa, can be easily done in the stationary position without having to remove the dirty water tank 88 from the cleaning unit body 14.

[0170] The cleaning device body 14 has a liquid container receptacle 118 for receiving the liquid containers 18 in an operating position of the cleaning device 10. The liquid container receptacle 118 is oriented in the direction A 501 242 z

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[0172] - 24 - open towards the top of the device 28. It is also open towards the front of the device 48 and towards the sides 44 and 46.

[0173] A fresh water outlet 122 is arranged or formed on the bottom 120 of the fresh water tank 90. ​​The fresh water outlet 122 is closed by a valve 124. The valve 124 is designed such that, in the open position when the fresh water tank 90 is removed from the liquid container receptacle 118, it automatically closes the fresh water outlet 122. When the fresh water tank 90 is inserted into the liquid container receptacle 118, the valve 124 opens automatically, allowing fresh water to be pumped out of the fresh water tank 90 by a fresh water pump 126.

[0174] To carry the wastewater tank 88 or the unit consisting of the wastewater tank 88 and the fresh water tank 90 in the working position, as exemplified in Figure 4, a pivotable container carrying handle 128 is arranged or formed on the wastewater tank 88. Part of the container carrying handle 128, namely a handle section 130 thereof, runs parallel to the support plane 24. The container carrying handle 128 is pivotable about a pivot axis 132 running parallel to the support plane 24.

[0175] The container carrying handle 128 comprises two hook-shaped handle locking elements 134 which, in a locking position as shown schematically in Figures 1 to 3, engage in corresponding recesses 136 on the cleaning device body 14 in a force-fit and / or form-fit manner. In the locking position, the container carrying handle 128 extends over the fresh water container 90 at the front of the device 48. In particular, the handle section 130 extends below the top of the device 28 in front of the front of the device 48.

[0176] As shown schematically in dashed lines in Figure 3, the container carrying handle 128 must be moved from the locked position to a removal position. A 501 242 z

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[0178] - 25 - In the position in which the liquid containers 18 can be removed from the liquid container receptacle 118, the handle section 130 is pivoted about the pivot axis 132 such that two parallel legs 138 of the container carrying handle 128, extending from the pivot axis 132 to the handle section 130, are aligned parallel to the direction of gravity 132. In this pivoted position, the handle locking elements 134 release the recesses 136 on the cleaning device body 14. The unit consisting of the two liquid containers 18 can now be removed from the liquid container receptacle 118 upwards and forwards away from the cleaning device body 14, as shown schematically in Figure 4.

[0179] A separator 140 for separating liquid and gaseous components of the dirty water liquor sucked up by the cleaning device 10 is arranged or formed on one of the two liquid containers 18, namely the wastewater container 88. The dirty water liquor enters from below through the dirty water inlet 94 via a channel 142 extending parallel to the direction of gravity 32 into a deflection area 150 formed on a container lid. This deflection area diverts the dirty water liquor onto a slightly inclined drain surface 146 on the wastewater container 88 relative to a plane perpendicular to the vertical axis 30. From there, a liquid component of the dirty water liquor can then flow off and be collected in a receiving chamber 148 of the wastewater container 88.

[0180] The wastewater tank 88 is perforated by a second channel 152, which defines a channel inlet 154 pointing towards the tank lid 144. The channel 152 extends from the channel inlet 154 to the air outlet 96 at the bottom of the wastewater tank 92.

[0181] The described separation device 140 comprises a single separation stage. Optionally, a second separation stage can also be provided in other embodiments. A 501 242 z

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[0183] - 26 -

[0184] The container lid 144 forms part of the upper surface of the device 28. As explained, the deflection area 150 of the separation device 140, comprising a deflection bend 156, is arranged or formed on the container lid 144.

[0185] The cleaning device 10 comprises a cleaning device hose 158. A free end of the cleaning device hose 158 is connected to a hose connection 160 of the cleaning device 10, either permanently or temporarily for selective disconnection. The hose connection 160 is located on or in the area of ​​the front of the device 48. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the hose connection 160 is recessed slightly into the cleaning device body 14 relative to the front of the device 48.

[0186] The hose connection 160 is positioned below the fresh water tank 90, specifically in a recess 162 of the tank. The cleaning device hose 158 is led out of the front of the device 48 in the area of ​​the recess 162.

[0187] The distance 164 between the hose connection 160 and the support surface 24 is greater than the stair pitch 166 defined in DIN 18065, which corresponds to the height of a stair step. In particular, the distance 164 is greater than at least 14 cm and, in the embodiment shown in the figures, is also greater than at least 20 cm.

[0188] The distance 164 is approximately one third of the device height 34.

[0189] Furthermore, in the cleaning device 10, the dirty water inlet 94 is fluidly connected to the hose connection 160.

[0190] The air outlet 96 is fluidly connected to a suction-side suction inlet 168 of the suction device 16. This design allows a flow of dirty water from the cleaning device hose 158 through A 501 242 z

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[0192] - 27 - to connect the hose connection 160 to the channel 142 and through it into the wastewater tank 88, and to create an airflow from the wastewater tank 88 through the channel 152 and through the air outlet 96 into the fan 78.

[0193] A pressure-side suction outlet 170 of the suction device 16 is fluidly connected to an exhaust outlet 172 of the cleaning device 10.

[0194] A filter device 174, shown schematically as a dashed line in Figure 5, is arranged or formed between the suction outlet 170 and the exhaust outlet 172. The filter device 174 comprises at least one filter element. This can be in the form of an odor filter, specifically an activated carbon filter.

[0195] The exhaust air outlet 172 is located or formed on the underside 26 of the device.

[0196] The cleaning device body 14 comprises a suction chamber 176 in which the suction device 16 is housed. The two liquid containers 18 are arranged above the suction chamber 26 of the cleaning device 10 in the operating position opposite to the direction of gravity 32.

[0197] The cleaning device body 14 also includes a technical chamber 178. This chamber serves to house a control and / or regulating device 180 of the cleaning device 10. The technical chamber 178 is arranged adjacent to the rear of the device 50. Furthermore, the technical chamber 178 adjoins the liquid container receptacle 118. The technical chamber 178 forms part of the upper surface 28 of the device.

[0198] The technical chamber 178 is arranged or designed above the suction device chamber 176, contrary to the direction of gravity. Therefore, A 501 242 z

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[0200] - 28 - that the technical chamber 178 is adjacent to the liquid container receptacle 118, in the operating position it is also adjacent to the wastewater tank 88.

[0201] The technical chamber 178 also contains a cleaning agent container 182, which serves to hold a cleaning agent, and a cleaning agent dosing device 184. The cleaning agent dosing device 184 includes a cleaning agent pump 186 for pumping the cleaning agent out of the cleaning agent container 182. The cleaning agent container 182 can be removed from the technical chamber 78 for filling.

[0202] The fresh water pump 126 is also located in the technical chamber 178.

[0203] For ease of handling the cleaning device 10, a hose fastening device 188 is arranged or formed on the cleaning device body 14. It comprises two rubber loops 190, which are attached to the top of the device 28. The free ends of the rubber loops 190 can be engaged with hooks 192, which are arranged on a device handle 194 that projects from the top of the device 28 in the form of a U-shaped bracket. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the rubber loops 190 enclose the cleaning device hose 158 to securely fasten it during transport of the cleaning device 10.

[0204] For the storage of accessories and small parts, an accessory receptacle 196 is arranged or formed on the cleaning device body 14, in a transition area between the rear of the device 50 and the side of the device 46.

[0205] The cleaning device 10, shown schematically in the figures, is designed as a mains connection device and comprises a cleaning device body A 501 242 z.

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[0207] - 29 -

[0208] 14. Extended connection cable 198 with a plug 200 for plugging into a socket.

[0209] To secure the connecting cable 198 in a defined manner during transport of the cleaning device 10, the cleaning device body includes a connecting cable holding device 202. This is formed in the transition area between the rear of the device 50 and the side of the device 44 and comprises two spaced-apart retaining projections 204. A securing projection 208, projecting transversely, in particular vertically, with respect to a longitudinal axis 206 of the retaining projection, is arranged on at least one of the two retaining projections 204.

[0210] The locking projection 208 is designed to be rotatable about the longitudinal axis 206 of the retaining projection. It can be rotated by 180° so that the locking projection 208 points either in the direction of gravity, as schematically shown in Figure 11, or against the direction of gravity, as schematically shown in Figure 12.

[0211] To remove the connecting cable, which is coiled as shown schematically in Figure 2, from the connecting cable holder 202, the locking protrusions 208 can be rotated so that their free ends point towards each other. This described position of the locking protrusions 208 is thus exactly the opposite of the orientation of the locking protrusions 208 shown in Figure 2. Because the locking protrusions 208 can be rotated, the connecting cable 198 can be removed from the cleaning device body 14 without having to unwind it.

[0212] The cleaning device 10 includes a transport device 210 for moving the cleaning device 10 by a user 212.

[0213] In an embodiment not shown in the figures, the transport device 210 may include a return carrying device. This may be arranged or formed, in particular, on the rear of the device 50. The A 501 242 z

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[0215] - 30 -

[0216] User 212 can then carry the cleaning device 10 on his back 214 in the manner of a backpack.

[0217] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the transport device 210 comprises a transport handle 216 with a transport handle section 218 extending parallel to the support plane 24. Optionally, a carrying pad 220, shown schematically as a dashed line in Figure 14 and pointing towards the cleaning device body 14, is arranged or formed on the transport handle section 218.

[0218] In an embodiment not shown in the figures, the transport handle 216 is arranged or designed to pivot on the cleaning device body 14.

[0219] In the embodiment of the cleaning device 10 shown schematically in the figures, the transport handle 216 is extendable, i.e. telescopically arranged or designed.

[0220] In a storage position of the cleaning device 10, the transport handle 216 is pushed forward as far as possible towards the cleaning device body 14 or alternatively pivoted towards it.

[0221] The transport handle 216 defines an extension direction 222. This direction, together with the vertical axis 30, forms an extension angle 224. The extension angle 224 has a value in the range of 0° to approximately 25°. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the extension angle 224 is slightly less than 15°.

[0222] The transport handle 216 is extendable from the top of the device 28 near the rear of the device 50, extending from the cleaning device body 14. In an extended, particularly a fully extended, transport position of the transport handle 216, the transport A 501 242 z

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[0224] - 31 - handle section 218 extends over a rear surface 226 defined by the rear of the device 50. This allows the user 212 to reach through an opening defined by the transport handle 216 and the top of the device 28 with one arm 228 and place the transport handle section 218 on one shoulder 230. This allows the cleaning device 10 to be carried easily and ergonomically close to the user's body 212, for example, to transport the cleaning device 10 up or down stairs.

[0225] On a level surface, the cleaning device 10 can be pulled behind a user. For this purpose, it is pivoted from the stationary position to the pulling position as described. The user 212 can grasp the transport handle section 218 with one hand 232 and pull the cleaning device 10 behind them while walking. In the pulling position, the swivel casters 64 are lifted from the floor 234 over which the cleaning device 10 is being pulled. The cleaning device 10 then rests on the floor 234 only with its two wheels 70.

[0226] The device handle 194 is arranged on the cleaning device body 14, or rather, is formed with a device handle section 236 running parallel to the support plane 24. In the storage position, the transport handle section 218 rests against the device handle section 236 as shown schematically in Figure 16.

[0227] The cleaning device 10 also includes a stair support device 238. This makes it possible to place the cleaning device 10 on a stair step 240 with the transport device 20 and to support it on a lower stair step 242.

[0228] The stair support device 238 comprises an extendable support element 244, which, in the embodiment shown in the figures, has two support surfaces 246. Alternatively, only a single support surface 246 can be provided. A 501 242 z

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[0230] - 32 -

[0231] In the transport position of the cleaning device 10 shown in Figure 2, the support surfaces 246 are retracted relative to the base 24. In the support position shown schematically in Figures 16 to 18, the support surfaces 246 project beyond the base 24.

[0232] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the stair support device 238 is designed separately from the transport device 210.

[0233] In alternative embodiments of cleaning devices 10 not shown, the transport device 210 on the cleaning device body 14 can also be arranged or designed such that the transport handle 216 can be pushed from the transport position, as schematically shown in Figure 15, so far into the cleaning device body 14 that it protrudes from the underside 26 of the device above the support level 24 in order to place and support the cleaning device 10 on a staircase 248 in an analogous manner as schematically shown in Figure 16.

[0234] The cleaning device 10 includes a main switch 250, which is arranged or formed on the top of the device 28. In the embodiment shown schematically in the figures, the main switch 250 is arranged in the area of ​​a top surface 252 of the technical chamber 178.

[0235] Figure 42 schematically shows an embodiment of a cleaning device 10 with an electrical energy storage device 254 in the form of a rechargeable battery 256 to operate the cleaning device 10 independently of the mains.

[0236] Optionally, the cleaning device 10 can have both a mains connection and an electrical energy storage device 254.

[0237] The cleaning device 10, schematically depicted in the figures, is designed in the form of a spray extraction device. A 501 242 z

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[0239] - 33 -

[0240] Figure 45 schematically shows an embodiment of a cleaning device 10 in the form of a suction device 258. The suction device 258 comprises only a single liquid container 18, namely the dirty water container 88. The suction device 258 can only vacuum up a dirty solution. However, it is not possible to apply a cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned using the cleaning device 10 in the form of the suction device 258.

[0241] Figure 29 shows, by way of example, the cleaning device 10 in its stationary position while cleaning a cushion 260 of a piece of seating furniture 262. To apply a cleaning fluid and optionally a cleaning agent to the cushion 260, a user guides a handpiece 264 of the cleaning device 10 with their hand 232. The handpiece 264 is connected to a free end 266 of the cleaning device hose 158.

[0242] The construction of the handpiece 264 and in particular of a suction nozzle 268 encompassed by it is explained in more detail below in conjunction with Figures 29 to 40.

[0243] The suction nozzle 268 is arranged or formed at a front end of the handpiece 264. It defines a suction inlet 270, which is fluidly connected to the suction-side suction device inlet 168 via the cleaning device hose 158, in which a suction channel 272 is formed.

[0244] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the handpiece 264 is detachably connected to the cleaning device hose 158. A coupling device 274 is provided for this purpose, which enables the detachable connection of the handpiece 264 to the cleaning device hose 158.

[0245] In embodiments not shown, the handpiece 264 is permanently attached to the cleaning device hose 158 and is not intended to be separated from it. A 501 242 z

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[0247] - 34 -

[0248] For dispensing a cleaning fluid, a fluid outlet 276 is provided on the handpiece 264, specifically on a spray nozzle 278. This nozzle is arranged at a distance from the suction nozzle 268. Between the fluid outlet 276, which serves to dispense cleaning fluid onto a surface to be cleaned, and the suction nozzle 268, a cleaning element 280 in the form of a rotatable brush roller 282 is provided. This roller comprises a roller body 284, from which bristle bundles 286, comprising a plurality of bristles, project radially with respect to a roller axis 288.

[0249] The roller axis 288 of the roller body 284 extends transversely, namely vertically and laterally offset to a grip area axis 290, which is defined by a grip area 292 of the handpiece 264.

[0250] A drive unit 294 in the form of an electric motor is arranged on the handpiece 264 to rotate the brush roller 282. The electric motor can rotate the roller body 284 via a gear unit comprising gears 296, 298 and 300.

[0251] The liquid outlet 276 of the spray nozzle 278 is directed towards the surface to be cleaned, preferably such that the bristle bundles 286, which project from the roller body 284 towards the surface to be cleaned, are not sprayed and a major part of the dispensed liquid directly impacts the surface to be cleaned. Alternatively, particularly with stationary or oscillating brushes, it can also be advantageous if their bristles or bristle bundles are directly wetted with cleaning fluid and optionally also with cleaning agent.

[0252] The suction nozzle 268 comprises a deformable suction element 302. It defines a suction surface 304 for contact with the surface to be cleaned, for example, the upholstery 260. The suction inlet 270 is arranged on or formed within the suction element 302. A 501 242 z

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[0254] - 35 -

[0255] The suction inlet 270 is formed in the form of an opening 306 in the suction system element 302 in the area of ​​the suction system surface 304. The suction inlet 270 also has the form of a slot 308.

[0256] The slot 308 has a slot length 310 and a slot width 312. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the ratio of slot length 310 to slot width 312 is in the range of approximately 20:1 to approximately 80:1. In particular, the ratio is in the range of approximately 30:1 to approximately 50:1. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the ratio is approximately 40:1.

[0257] The slot 308 is divided into several slot sections 318 by several transverse webs extending perpendicular to a longitudinal direction 314 of the slot. The number of transverse webs 316 preferably ranges from 2 to 20. In the embodiment shown in the figures, nine transverse webs are provided, thus defining ten slot sections 318.

[0258] The crossbars 316 taper away from the suction system element 302, in particular in a wedge shape.

[0259] The suction system surface 304 surrounds the suction inlet 270 on all sides.

[0260] The suction inlet 270 defines a suction inlet area. This is calculated as the product of the slot length 310 and the slot width 312.

[0261] The suction surface 304 has a length 320 parallel to the slot length 310 and a width 322 parallel to the slot width 312. In the basic position of the suction element 302, in which it is undeformed, the suction surface 304 is flat. The size of the suction surface 304 is thus the product of its length 320 and width 322. The ratio of the suction surface 304 to the suction inlet area is in the range of approximately 5:1 to approximately 100:1. Preferably, the ratio is in the range of approximately 5:1.

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[0263] - 36 - to 40: 1. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the ratio is approximately 11 : 1.

[0264] The deformable suction system element 302 is elastic or flexible. This allows it to be easily deformed. The suction system surface 304, which is flat in its basic position, can thus be applied to surfaces that are curved in one or more ways.

[0265] The suction nozzle 268 comprises a suction nozzle body 324 and a nozzle attachment 326. The nozzle attachment 326 comprises the suction system element 302.

[0266] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the suction nozzle body 324 is detachably connected to the nozzle attachment 326. In an operating position, as shown schematically in Figure 37, the suction nozzle body 324 and the nozzle attachment 326 are gas-tightly connected to each other. In a separation position, also shown schematically in Figure 37, the suction nozzle body 324 and the nozzle attachment 326 are completely separated from each other.

[0267] On the suction nozzle body 324 and the nozzle attachment 326, cooperating connecting elements 328 and 330 are arranged or formed, which are engaged with each other in the working position in which the suction nozzle body 324 and the nozzle attachment 326 are connected to each other, and which are disengaged in the separation position. The connecting elements 328 and 330 are designed in the form of detent elements, specifically in the form of detent projections 332 and corresponding detent recesses 334, which positively engage the detent projections 332 in the working position.

[0268] In alternative embodiments not shown, the suction system element 302 and the suction nozzle body 324 are materially bonded and gas-tight. The suction system element 302 and, with it, the nozzle attachment 326 are then either injection-molded onto the suction nozzle body 324 or bonded to it. A 501 242 z

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[0270] - 37 -

[0271] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the nozzle attachment 326 comprises a nozzle attachment coupling section 336. The suction nozzle body 324 comprises a suction nozzle body coupling section 338. In a coupling position, which also defines the operating position, the nozzle attachment coupling section 336 and the suction nozzle body coupling section 338 are engaged with each other by force and / or form locking, as shown schematically in Figure 37, and in a separation position, as shown schematically in Figure 36, they are disengaged.

[0272] The locking recesses 338 are formed as circumferential grooves on the nozzle attachment coupling section 336, and the locking projections 332 are formed as circumferential projections on the suction nozzle body coupling section 338. The nozzle attachment coupling section 336 also forms a receptacle 340 for the suction nozzle body coupling section 338. The locking recesses 334 are arranged or formed in the area of ​​the receptacle 340.

[0273] A free inner cross-section 340 of the nozzle attachment 326 in a plane parallel to the suction system element 302 and the suction system surface 304 encompassed by it increases from the suction inlet 270 towards the nozzle attachment coupling section 336.

[0274] To connect the suction nozzle body 324 and the nozzle attachment 326, in particular to facilitate their connection, the suction nozzle body 324 and the suction nozzle body coupling section 338, respectively, are made of a first material. The suction system element 302 and the nozzle attachment coupling section 336 are made of a second material. The modulus of elasticity of the first material is greater than the modulus of elasticity of the second material, in particular ten times greater.

[0275] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first material is a rigid plastic. For example, this could be polyamide (PH). A 501 242 z

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[0277] - 38 -

[0278] The second material is rubber, a silicone, or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). For example, it could be ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), styrene block copolymer (TPS), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), and / or thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO).

[0279] To better adapt the suction system element to surfaces to be cleaned, especially those with three-dimensional shapes, the nozzle attachment 326 includes an elastically and / or flexibly deformable bellows element 344. This bellows element 344 movably connects the nozzle attachment coupling section 336 and the suction system element 302. The bellows element 344 has a material thickness that is slightly less than that of the suction system element 302. This allows the nozzle attachment 326 to deform between the suction system element 302 and the nozzle attachment coupling section 336 in a direction transverse to, and especially perpendicular to, the suction system surface 304. The bellows element 344 also limits a flow section of a suction flow path 412 extending from the suction system element 302 to the nozzle attachment coupling section 336.

[0280] The bellows element 344 and the suction system element 302 are formed in one piece, namely monolithically.

[0281] Furthermore, the nozzle attachment 326 is entirely monolithic, meaning it is made in one piece.

[0282] The suction nozzle 268 is located at a front end of the handle area 292 and points obliquely forward. The suction surface 304 runs parallel or substantially parallel to the handle area axis 290. The suction nozzle 268 and the handle area 292 are formed as a single unit. Starting from the suction nozzle body coupling section 338, a suction channel 346 extends to a rear end of the handpiece 264, where it connects via the A 501 242 z

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[0284] - 39 -

[0285] The coupling device 274 is connected or connectable to the cleaning device hose 158.

[0286] A fluid hose 348 is routed through the cleaning device hose 158 and is fluidly connected to the fresh water reservoir 90. This allows cleaning fluid to be pumped from the fresh water reservoir 90 to the handpiece by the fresh water pump 126 and through a fluid channel 350 of the handpiece to the fluid outlet 276. A section of the suction nozzle 268, projecting transversely from the grip area 292, is closed at the front by a sight glass 352. This allows the user to see into the suction channel, specifically into an area directly adjacent to the suction nozzle body coupling section 338.

[0287] On a rear side facing away from the sight glass 352, a housing part 354 is arranged, which, extending from the nozzle attachment coupling section 336, includes a hood-like receptacle 356 for the cleaning element 280. The cleaning element 280 is approximately half-received in the receptacle 356. The free ends of the bristle bundles 286 protrude approximately to a plane defined by the suction surface 304.

[0288] As described, and as can be seen particularly well in Figure 33, the cleaning element 280 is arranged in an area between the liquid outlet 276 and the suction system element 302. The cleaning element 280 also extends parallel to the suction system element 302.

[0289] Particle sensors 358 are arranged or formed on both sides of the section of the suction duct 346 extending behind the sight glass 352. Their function will be explained below.

[0290] Furthermore, an operating device 360 ​​is arranged or formed in the transition area from the handle area 292 to the suction nozzle 268. A 501 242 z

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[0292] - 40 -

[0293] The 360 ​​control unit is designed to activate and deactivate the suction unit 16. It can also be used to activate and deactivate the dispensing of cleaning fluid.

[0294] The operating device 360 ​​is further designed to activate and deactivate the drive device 294 for moving the cleaning element 280.

[0295] The cleaning device 10 comprises a cleaning agent dispensing device 362 in the form of a cleaning agent dosing device 184 for adding cleaning agent to the cleaning fluid before dispensing it onto the surface to be cleaned. The operating device 360 ​​is designed to activate and deactivate the cleaning agent dispensing device 362. The cleaning agent dispensing device 362 includes the cleaning agent pump 186 for pumping cleaning agent from the cleaning agent container 182 to the fluid outlet 276 connected to it.

[0296] The operating device 360 ​​is arranged or designed on the handpiece 264 such that it can be operated with a single hand 232 of a user 212. Thus, the operating device 360 ​​is designed for one-handed operation of functions of the cleaning device 10 that can be activated and / or deactivated with it.

[0297] In embodiments not shown, the operating device 360 ​​is designed to be detachable from the handpiece 264. Thus, the operating device 360 ​​and the handpiece 264 can be detachably connected. In such a case, a mobile device, for example a smartphone, can comprise or form the operating device 360.

[0298] In the embodiments shown in the figures, the operating device 360 ​​is permanently and indetachably connected to the handpiece 264 as intended. A 501 242 z

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[0300] - 41 -

[0301] The operating device 360 ​​is partly arranged or formed on a handle area top 364 and partly on a handle area back 366.

[0302] The operating device 360 ​​comprises a first operating element 368 for activating and deactivating the suction device 16. It is arranged or formed on the upper surface of the handle area 364.

[0303] A second control element 370 of the control device 360 ​​serves to activate and deactivate the drive device 294, with which the cleaning element 280 can be moved. The second control element 370 is also arranged or formed on the upper surface of the handle area 364, next to the first control element 368.

[0304] The operating device 360 ​​includes a third operating element 372 for activating and deactivating the cleaning agent dispensing device 362. The third operating element 372 is arranged or formed on the handle area 292 on the rear side 366 of the handle area.

[0305] A fourth control element 376 of the control device 360 ​​for activating the liquid dispensing is arranged or formed on the handle area 292 on the rear side 366 of the handle area. The cleaning device 10 includes a cleaning fluid pump 374 in the form of the fresh water pump 126 for pumping cleaning fluid from the fresh water tank 90 to the liquid outlet 276. The fourth control element 376 is designed for activating and deactivating only the cleaning fluid pump 374.

[0306] All four operating elements 368, 370, 372 and 376 of the operating unit 360 are designed as electrical pushbuttons and / or switching elements. These are connected to the control and / or regulating unit 180 via control lines (not shown) in a control-effective manner. A 501 242 z

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[0308] - 42 -

[0309] By actuating the third control element 372, the fourth control element 376 is also actuated simultaneously, so that when the third control element 376 is actuated, not only cleaning agent is dispensed from the liquid outlet 276, but also cleaning fluid.

[0310] The cleaning device 10 also includes a display unit 378 for indicating the operating states of functions that can be activated and deactivated by the operating unit 360. The display unit 378 is arranged on or formed on the handpiece 264.

[0311] In an embodiment not shown, the display device 378 is designed to be detachable from the handpiece 264. Thus, the display device 378 and the handpiece 264 can be detachably connected to each other.

[0312] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the operating device 360 ​​comprises the display device 378.

[0313] In one embodiment where the mobile device forms the operating unit 360, the display of the mobile device forms the display unit 378.

[0314] The display device 378 comprises a first display element 380 for indicating an operating status of the suction device 16. The first display element 380 is spatially arranged in relation to the first control element 368. It is positioned in front of the first control element 368 in the direction of the suction nozzle 268.

[0315] A second display element 382 of the display device 378 serves to indicate an operating status of the drive device 294. The second display element 382 is spatially arranged in relation to the second control element 370. It is positioned next to the first display element 380 and in front of the second control element 370, facing the suction nozzle 268. A 501 242 z

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[0317] - 43 -

[0318] The display device 378 further comprises a third display element 384 for indicating a fill level of the wastewater tank 88 and / or the fresh water tank 90. ​​The third display element 384 can also be used to indicate a fill level of the detergent tank 182.

[0319] The cleaning device 10 also includes an operating status indicator 368, which is spatially assigned to the main switch 250. The operating status indicator 368 is designed as an optical display element and surrounds the main switch 250 in a ring shape. The operating status indicator 368 can indicate an operating status of the cleaning device 10 by means of different colors. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0320] As already explained, the control and / or regulating device 180 of the cleaning device 110 serves to control the suction device 16, the cleaning fluid pump 374, the drive device 294 and the cleaning agent dispensing device 362.

[0321] In the embodiments shown in the figures, the operating unit 360 and the control and / or regulation unit 180 interact via a wired connection. In alternative embodiments, the interaction between the operating unit 360 and the control and / or regulation unit 180 can also be wireless, in particular via radio, for example Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

[0322] The cleaning device 10 can be used in particular to clean a surface, for example the surface of the cushion 260 as shown schematically in Figure 29.

[0323] To use the cleaning device 10, the main switch 250 must first be activated. This puts the cleaning device 10 into a standby state. This can then be indicated by a corresponding color display on the operating status indicator 386. A 501 242 z

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[0325] - 44 -

[0326] A user 212 can now grasp the handpiece 264 as schematically shown in Figure 29 and then, using the thumb 388 of their hand 232, selectively operate either the first control element 368 or the second control element 370 to activate either the suction device 16 or, alternatively or additionally, the drive device 294. The first indicator element 380 symbolizes a suction nozzle and also includes an arrow symbolizing a suction flow. The second indicator element 382 symbolizes the cleaning element 280. The third indicator element 384 symbolizes a container with a fill level indicator.

[0327] When the user 212 activates the fourth control element 376 with his index finger 392, the cleaning fluid pump 374 is activated and cleaning fluid is dispensed through the fluid outlet 276.

[0328] If cleaning agent is to be added to the cleaning fluid – preferably water – the user 212 can actuate the third control element 372 with their middle finger 390. Actuation of this element activates both the cleaning fluid pump 374 and the cleaning agent dispensing device 362, allowing cleaning fluid with added cleaning agent to be dispensed from the fluid outlet 276.

[0329] Figures 19 to 22 show, by way of example, the use of the operating device 360 ​​and the display device 378.

[0330] Figures 19 to 28 use hatching to symbolize colors. The color "green" is represented by dots. The color "yellow" is represented by hatching with percent signs. The color "red" is represented by a grid pattern. Display elements without texture are deactivated; therefore, they do not light up. A 501 242 z

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[0332] - 45 -

[0333] In Figure 19, the first indicator element 380 and the second indicator element 382 are both illuminated in green. This means that both the suction device 16 and the drive device 294 of the cleaning element 280 are activated.

[0334] Figure 20 schematically shows a green illuminated first indicator element 380. The second indicator element 382 is not illuminated. Thus, only the suction device 16 is activated. The cleaning element 280 is not moving. The third indicator element 384 is illuminated yellow, because at least one container of the cleaning device 10, i.e., the dirty water container 88, the fresh water container 90, and / or the cleaning agent container 182, has reached a state that, while still allowing the cleaning device 10 to continue operating, will require either emptying the dirty water container 88, refilling the fresh water container 90, or refilling the cleaning agent container 182 in the foreseeable future.

[0335] In Figure 21, the suction device 380 is activated as indicated by the first indicator 380. The drive unit 294 is deactivated. The third indicator 384 is illuminated in red. This means that the dirty water tank 88 is full, or that the detergent tank 182 or the fresh water tank 90 is empty. The user 212 can directly read which of the three tanks is affected from corresponding indicators, which will be explained in more detail below and which are arranged or formed on the cleaning device body 14.

[0336] In Figure 22, none of the three indicator elements 380, 382, ​​and 384 are illuminated. Therefore, the suction device 16 and the drive unit 294 are deactivated. The fill levels in the dirty water tank 88, the fresh water tank 90, and the detergent tank 182 are within acceptable limits.

[0337] As schematically shown in Figures 19 to 21, a fourth indicator element 394 is arranged in the area of ​​the part of the operating device 360 ​​that is formed on the handle in the upper part 364. It is U-shaped and A 501 242 z

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[0339] - 46 - open, pointing towards the suction nozzle 268. The fourth indicator element 394 can display the same color states as indicator elements 380, 382 and 384, i.e. green, yellow and red. However, it can also remain off.

[0340] Before the functionality of the fourth display element 394 is explained, the functionality of three first, second and third level indicator elements 396, 398 and 400, assigned to the dirty water tank 88, the fresh water tank 90 and the detergent tank 128, is first explained in conjunction with the figures 23 to 28.

[0341] The first and second level indicator elements 396 and 398 are arranged on a frame surrounding the liquid container receptacle 118, such that the first level indicator element 396 is directly adjacent to the dirty water container 88 and the second level indicator element 398 to the fresh water container 90. The third level indicator element 400 is arranged on the rear of the device 50 immediately next to the detergent dosing device 184, which has a receptacle for the detergent container 182. Reference is made to Figure 2 in this regard.

[0342] The three level indicator elements 396, 398, and 400 are optical indicators and can illuminate green, yellow, or red depending on the fill level in the respective container. A green level indicator element 396 signals that the wastewater tank 88 is empty. If the first level indicator element 396 illuminates yellow, the wastewater tank 88 is half full. If the first level indicator element 396 illuminates red, the wastewater tank 90 is full.

[0343] Similarly, a full fresh water tank 90 can be indicated by a green illuminated second level indicator element 398, a half-full fresh water tank 90 by a yellow illuminated second level indicator element, and an empty fresh water tank 90 by a red illuminated second level indicator element 398. A 501 242 z

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[0345] - 47 -

[0346] Similarly, the third level indicator element 400 in Figures 26, 27 and 28 shows a full cleaning agent container 182 in Figure 26, a half-full cleaning agent container 182 in Figure 27 and an empty cleaning agent container 182 in Figure 28.

[0347] In Figure 26, the operating status indicator 386 is shown illuminated in red. The operating status indicator 386 can be used, in particular, to be activated and illuminate in a color, for example red or yellow, when any operating state of a component of the cleaning device 10 is not functioning or is only functioning to a limited extent, or when, for example, the fill level in one of the containers of the cleaning device 10 is in a critical state, for example empty in the case of the fresh water container 90 or full in the case of the dirty water container 88. In particular, the operating status indicator 386 can thus also signal the same information to the user 212 as the third display element 384 on the handpiece 264.

[0348] The cleaning device 10 also includes a control unit 402 for determining and displaying a system value that corresponds to the contact of the suction nozzle 268 with the surface to be cleaned. In other words, the control unit 402 provides feedback to the user 212 as to whether the suction nozzle 268 is in contact with the surface to be cleaned as completely as possible. If the contact is not complete, leakage air can flow between the surface to be cleaned and the suction element 302 to the suction inlet 270, thereby reducing the negative pressure in the suction flow path 412 between the suction inlet 270 and the suction unit 16. The nozzle contact refers to, or indicates, how the suction nozzle 268 with the suction element 302 is in contact with the surface to be cleaned.If the suction system surface 304 lies flat against the surface to be cleaned, there are practically no leakage air currents into the suction inlet 270, so that a maximum negative pressure can be achieved with the suction device 16 in the suction flow guide 412. A 501 242 e.g.

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[0350] - 48 -

[0351] The asset value can be displayed using the fourth display element, 394. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0352] Figure 43 shows a purely schematic representation of the construction of a cleaning device 10 with control device 402. The suction flow path 412 extends through the cleaning device hose 158 from the suction inlet 270 to the suction device 16.

[0353] The control device 402 comprises at least one sensor device 404 for measuring at least one extraction parameter. A data processing device 406 of the cleaning device 10 interacts with the sensor device 404 to determine the system value as a function of the at least one measured extraction parameter. Furthermore, the control device 402 comprises a display device 358 for displaying the determined system value. The display device 358 includes the fourth display element 394 for optically displaying the system value. Alternatively or additionally, acoustic and / or haptic display elements may also be provided to signal the system value to the user 212. The optical display element 394 is designed to display a color signal corresponding to the system value. The fourth display element 394 can either remain off, illuminate green as shown by way of example in Figure 21, or illuminate red as shown by way of example in Figure 22.

[0354] The at least one sensor device 404 of the cleaning device 10 is designed in particular in the form of a vacuum sensor 410 for measuring a vacuum as a suction parameter in the suction flow path 412 between the suction nozzle 268 and the suction-side suction device inlet 168 of the suction device 16.

[0355] In the embodiments shown in the figures, the vacuum sensor 410 is arranged or formed on or in the area of ​​the suction device inlet 168. A 501 242 z

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[0357] - 49 -

[0358] The control device 402 also includes a sensor device 404 in the form of a particle sensor 358, which is designed to measure particles, in particular liquid particles, as suction parameters in the suction flow path 412 between the suction nozzle 268 and the suction-side suction device inlet 168 of the suction device 16.

[0359] In the schematic diagram of the structure of a cleaning device 10 shown in Figure 44, the particle sensor 358 is depicted as an optional element with a dashed line. It is arranged or formed in the handpiece 264, specifically downstream of the suction nozzle 268 in the direction of flow.

[0360] The fourth display element 394 is designed to generate or display a running light signal corresponding to the system value, indicating a recommended direction of movement for the handpiece 264. This running light can be implemented with the fourth display element 394 in such a way that it does not illuminate uniformly in color, but rather in a running light pattern, radiating from free ends 416, which point towards the suction nozzle 268, to a central area 418, which points towards the grip area 292. Such a running light intuitively signals to the user 212 a direction of movement towards their hand 232. The running light prompts the user to move the handpiece 264 towards themselves over the surface to be cleaned.

[0361] In the embodiments shown in the figures, the fourth display element 394 is arranged or formed in the handpiece 264. Alternatively or additionally, it can also be arranged or formed on the cleaning device body 14 of the cleaning device 10.

[0362] The data processing unit 406 is designed to compare the measured extraction parameter with an extraction parameter limit value and to determine a reference value that indicates whether the extraction parameter is lower or higher than the extraction parameter limit value. The determined reference value is then assigned to the system value. Thus, the value specified by A 501 242 z

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[0364] - 50 -

[0365] The system compares the measured system value to determine whether it is above or below the extraction parameter limit. Accordingly, there are two displayable states, which can be indicated to the user by the colors red and green.

[0366] Figure 44 schematically shows the operating device 360 ​​and the display device 378 connected to the control and / or regulating device 180 via a connecting cable 408. The connecting cable 408 can comprise several lines to exchange control and data signals between the handpiece 264 and the control and / or regulating device 180.

[0367] The cleaning device 10, with the control unit 402, enables the user 212 to be assisted during cleaning. A schematic representation of the functionality is shown in Figure 41. The control unit 402 is activated when the suction unit 16 is activated via the first control element 368. The first indicator element 380 then illuminates green. This corresponds to step S1 in Figure 41. After activation of the suction unit 16, the sensor unit 404, in particular the vacuum sensor 410, is activated in step S2. In step S3, the control unit compares the vacuum value measured by the vacuum sensor with a vacuum limit value that is still sufficient for an adequately good suction result. If the measured vacuum is lower than the vacuum limit value, the user 212 receives feedback in step S4 via the fourth indicator element 394. In this case, the fourth indicator element 394 remains red.

[0368] In step S5, the particle sensor 358 determines whether, and in particular how many and how large, particles are present in the area of ​​the suction nozzle 268. If no particles are detected or the measured value falls below a particle limit, the feedback on the fourth display element 394 is maintained. However, if particles are detected in step S5, the feedback to the user 212 via the fourth display element 394 changes in step S6.

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[0370] - 51 -

[0371] Display element 394. This switches to a running light mode and indicates to the user 212 that the surface to be cleaned is not yet dry enough and requires further vacuuming. The running light intuitively guides the user to move the suction nozzle 268 back over the surface to be cleaned and towards them again.

[0372] If, during step S3, the vacuum sensor detects a vacuum value greater than the vacuum limit, the fourth indicator 394 signals to the user 212 that a nozzle system is required. The fourth indicator then illuminates continuously in green.

[0373] The control unit 402 can optionally be used to adjust the suction power of the suction unit, depending on the comparison result obtained in step S3. If the measured negative pressure is lower than the specified negative pressure limit, the power consumption of the fan drive can optionally be reduced using the control and / or regulation unit 180, thus reducing the suction power of the suction unit 16. Only when the suction nozzle 268 is once again in full contact with the surface to be cleaned, as desired, and the measured negative pressure is again higher than the specified negative pressure limit, is the suction power of the suction unit increased again. In this way, a surface can be cleaned energy-efficiently, particularly with a cleaning device 10 that is operated independently of the mains power supply using a battery 256.

[0374] A 501 242 z

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[0376] - 52 -

[0377] Reference symbol list

[0378] 10 Cleaning device

[0379] 12 Spray extraction machine

[0380] 14 Cleaning device bodies

[0381] 16 Suction unit

[0382] 18 liquid containers

[0383] 20 Driving equipment

[0384] 22 wheel

[0385] 24th level of insurgency

[0386] 26 Device underside

[0387] 28 Device top

[0388] 30 Vertical axis

[0389] 32 Direction of gravity

[0390] 34 Device height

[0391] 36 distance

[0392] 38 Footprint

[0393] 40 device width

[0394] 42 device length

[0395] 44 Device page

[0396] 46 Device page

[0397] 48 Device front

[0398] 50 Device back

[0399] 52 front upper edge

[0400] 54 rear lower edge

[0401] 56 Section plane

[0402] 58 Focus

[0403] 60 distance

[0404] 62 distance

[0405] 64 Swivel caster

[0406] 66 Swivel caster axle

[0407] 68 Steering axle A 501 242 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 415

[0408] - 53 -

[0409] 70 wheel

[0410] 72 Wheel axle

[0411] 74 swivel caster diameter

[0412] 76 wheel diameter

[0413] 78 fans

[0414] 80 fan impeller

[0415] 82 Fan drive

[0416] 84 Fan impeller axle

[0417] 86 wheel projection area

[0418] 88 wastewater tanks

[0419] 90 fresh water tanks

[0420] 92 Wastewater tank bottom

[0421] 94 Dirty Fleet Inlet

[0422] 96 Air outlet

[0423] 98 Jump back

[0424] 100 lead

[0425] 102 Befü Hope

[0426] 104 Locking element

[0427] 106 Liquid container coupling device

[0428] 108 Coupling element

[0429] 110 coupling element

[0430] 112 Coupling element

[0431] 114 Locking lever

[0432] 116 Handle section

[0433] 118 Liquid container holder

[0434] 120 Fresh water tank bottom

[0435] 122 Fresh water outlet

[0436] 124 valve

[0437] 126 Fresh water pump

[0438] 128 Container carrying handle

[0439] 130 handle section

[0440] 132 Swivel axis

[0441] 134 Handle locking element A 501 242 z 17 October 2025 z-390 / 415

[0442] - 54 -

[0443] 136 Exclusion

[0444] 138 thighs

[0445] 140 Separation device

[0446] Channel 142

[0447] 144 container lids

[0448] 146 Drainage area

[0449] 148 Container storage space

[0450] 150 deflection range

[0451] Channel 152

[0452] 154 Channel Inlet

[0453] 156 Deflection bends

[0454] 158 Cleaning device hose

[0455] 160 hose connection

[0456] 162 recess

[0457] 164 distance

[0458] 166 steps

[0459] 168 Suction device inlet

[0460] 170 Suction device outlet

[0461] 172 Exhaust outlet

[0462] 174 Filter unit

[0463] 176 Suction unit chamber

[0464] 178 Technical Chamber

[0465] 180 Control and / or regulating device

[0466] 182 cleaning agent containers

[0467] 184 Cleaning agent dosing device

[0468] 186 Cleaning agent pump

[0469] 188 Hose fastening device

[0470] 190 rubber loop

[0471] 192 hooks

[0472] 194 Device handle

[0473] 196 Accessory mount

[0474] 198 connection cables

[0475] 200 plugs A 501 242 z

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[0477] - 55 -

[0478] 202 Connection cable holding device

[0479] 204 Holding advantage

[0480] 206 Longitudinal axis of the retaining projection

[0481] 208 Safety margin

[0482] 210 Transport equipment

[0483] 212 users

[0484] 214 Back

[0485] 216 Transport handle

[0486] 218 Transport handle section

[0487] 220 carrying pads

[0488] 222 Direction of withdrawal

[0489] 224 Extension angle

[0490] 226 Device rear level

[0491] 228 Arm

[0492] 230 shoulder

[0493] 232 Hand

[0494] 234 Floor

[0495] 236 Device handle section

[0496] 238 Stair support device

[0497] 240 steps

[0498] 242 steps

[0499] 244 Support element

[0500] 246 support surface

[0501] 248 Stairs

[0502] 250 main switches

[0503] 252 Top

[0504] 254 Energy storage device

[0505] 256 Battery

[0506] 258 suction device

[0507] 260 cushions

[0508] 262 pieces of seating furniture

[0509] 264 Handpiece

[0510] 266 free end A 501 242 z 17 October 2025 z-390 / 415

[0511] - 56 -

[0512] 268 Suction nozzle

[0513] 270 Intake

[0514] 272 Suction channel

[0515] 274 Coupling device

[0516] 276 Liquid outlet

[0517] 278 Spray nozzle

[0518] 280 cleaning element

[0519] 282 Brush roller

[0520] 284 roller bodies

[0521] 286 bristle bundles

[0522] 288 Roller axle

[0523] 290 Grip area axis

[0524] 292 Grip area

[0525] 294 Drive unit

[0526] 296 gear

[0527] 298 gear

[0528] 300 gear

[0529] 302 Suction system element

[0530] 304 Suction system area

[0531] 306 Breakthrough

[0532] 308 slots

[0533] 310 slot length

[0534] 312 slot width

[0535] 314 Slot longitudinal direction

[0536] 316 Crossbar

[0537] 318 Slot section

[0538] 320 length

[0539] 322 width

[0540] 324 Suction nozzle bodies

[0541] 326 Nozzle attachment

[0542] 328 Connecting element

[0543] 330 Connecting element

[0544] 332 locking projection A 501 242 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 415

[0545] - 57 -

[0546] 334 Rest recess

[0547] 336 Nozzle attachment coupling section

[0548] 338 Suction nozzle body coupling section

[0549] 340 recording

[0550] 342 Cross section

[0551] 344 Bellows element

[0552] 346 Suction channel

[0553] 348 Fluid hose

[0554] 350 Fluid channel

[0555] 352 Sight glass

[0556] 354 Housing part

[0557] 356 recording

[0558] 358 particle sensor

[0559] 360 control unit

[0560] 362 Cleaning agent dispensing device

[0561] 364 Grip area top

[0562] 366 Grip area back

[0563] 368 first control element

[0564] 370 second control element

[0565] 372 third control element

[0566] 374 Cleaning fluid pump

[0567] 376 fourth control element

[0568] 378 Display unit

[0569] 380 first display element

[0570] 382 second display element

[0571] 384 third display element

[0572] 386 Operating status indicator

[0573] 388 thumbs up

[0574] 390 middle fingers

[0575] 392 Index finger

[0576] 394 fourth display element

[0577] 396 first level indicator element

[0578] 398 second level indicator element A 501 242 z 17 October 2025 z-390 / 415

[0579] - 58 -

[0580] 400 third level indicator element

[0581] 402 Control device

[0582] 404 Sensor device

[0583] 406 Data processing equipment

[0584] 408 connecting cables

[0585] 410 Vacuum sensor

[0586] 412 Suction flow guidance

[0587] 416 free end

[0588] 418 Center area

Claims

A 501 242 z 17. October 2025 z-390 / 415 - 59 - Patentansprüche 1. Cleaning device (10), in particular in the form of a spray extraction device (12), comprising a suction device (16), a dirty water container (88) for receiving a dirty water solution sucked up by the suction device (16), a handpiece (264) with a suction nozzle (268) for applying to a surface to be cleaned, a fresh water container (90) for receiving cleaning fluid that can be discharged onto the surface to be cleaned from a liquid outlet (276) on the handpiece (264), wherein the liquid outlet (276) is fluidly connected to the fresh water container (90), and a cleaning device hose (158) which is fluidly connected or connectable on one side to the suction device (16) and on the other side to the suction nozzle (268), characterized in thatthat the cleaning device (10) comprises an operating device (360) arranged or formed on the handpiece (264) for activating and deactivating the suction device (16) and for activating and deactivating a dispensing of the cleaning fluid.

2. Cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that a movable cleaning element (280) is arranged or formed on the handpiece (264) and that the operating device (360) is designed to activate and deactivate a drive device (294) for moving the cleaning element (280).

3. Cleaning device according to claim 2, characterized in that the cleaning element (280) is designed in the form of a rotatable brush roller (282).

4. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning device (10) comprises a cleaning agent dispensing device (362) for adding cleaning agent to the cleaning fluid before dispensing it onto the surface to be cleaned. A 501 242 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 415 - 60 - and that the operating device (360) is designed to activate and deactivate the cleaning agent dispensing device (362).

5. Cleaning device according to claim 4, characterized in that the cleaning agent dispensing device (362) comprises a cleaning agent pump (186) for conveying cleaning agent from a cleaning agent container (182) encompassed by the cleaning device (10) to the fluid outlet (276) connected thereto.

6. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating device (360) is arranged or designed on the handpiece (264) for one-handed operation of functions of the cleaning device (10) that can be activated and / or deactivated with it.

7. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating device (360) and the handpiece (264) are designed to be detachably connectable.

8. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a mobile terminal, in particular a smartphone, comprises or forms the operating device (360).

9. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handpiece (264) has a grip area (292), that the operating device (360) comprises a first operating element (368) for activating and deactivating the suction device (16), and that the first operating element (368) is arranged or formed on the grip area (292), in particular on a grip area top (364).

10. Cleaning device according to claim 9, characterized in that the operating device (360) comprises a second operating element (370) for activating and deactivating the drive device (294) for moving the cleaning element (280) and that the second operating element (370) A 501 242 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 415 - 61 - is arranged or formed on the handle area (292), in particular on the upper surface of the handle area (364).

11. Cleaning device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the operating device (360) comprises a fourth operating element (376) for activating and deactivating the liquid dispensing and that the fourth operating element (376) is arranged or formed on the handle area (292), in particular on a handle area rear (366).

12. Cleaning device according to claim 11, characterized in that the cleaning device (10) comprises a cleaning fluid pump (374) for pumping cleaning fluid from the fresh water reservoir (90) to the fluid outlet (276) and that the fourth control element (376) is designed to activate and deactivate the cleaning fluid pump (374).

13. Cleaning device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the operating device (360) has a third operating element (372) for activating and deactivating the cleaning agent dispensing device (362) and that the third operating element (372) is arranged or formed on the handle area (292), in particular on the back of the handle area (366).

14. Cleaning device according to one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that the operating elements (368, 370, 372, 376) of the operating device (360) are designed in the form of electrical pushbuttons and / or switching elements.

15. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning device (10) comprises a display device (378) for displaying operating states of functions that can be activated and deactivated with the operating device (360). A 501 242 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 415 - 62 - 16. Cleaning device according to claim 15, characterized in that the display device (378) is arranged or formed on the handpiece (264).

17. Cleaning device according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the display device (378) and the handpiece (264) are designed to be detachably connectable.

18. Cleaning device according to one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the operating device (360) comprises the display device (378).

19. Cleaning device according to one of claims 15 to 18, characterized in that a display of the mobile device forms the display device (378).

20. Cleaning device according to one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that the display device (378) comprises a first display element (380) for displaying an operating state of the suction device (16).

21. Cleaning device according to claim 20, characterized in that the first display element (380) is spatially arranged in relation to the first control element (368).

22. Cleaning device according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the display device (378) comprises a second display element (382) for displaying an operating state of the drive device (294).

23. Cleaning device according to claim 22, characterized in that the second display element (382) is spatially arranged in relation to the second control element (370). A 501 242 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 415 - 63 - 24. Cleaning device according to one of claims 15 to 23, characterized in that the display device (378) has at least one display element (378) for indicating a fill level of the dirty water tank (88) and / or the fresh water tank (90).

25. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning device (10) comprises a main switch (250) for switching the cleaning device (10) on and off and that the main switch (250) is arranged or formed on a cleaning device body (14) of the cleaning device (10), in particular on a device top (28).

26. Cleaning device according to claim 25, characterized in that the main switch is associated with an operating status indicator (368) of the cleaning device (10), in particular an optical operating status indicator (368).

27. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning device (10) comprises a control and / or regulating device (180) cooperating with the operating device (360) for controlling the suction device (16), the cleaning fluid pump (374), the drive device (294) for the cleaning element (280) and the cleaning agent dispensing device (362).

28. Cleaning device according to claim 27, characterized in that the operating device (360) and the control and / or regulating device (180) interact in a wired or wireless manner, in particular via radio.

29. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning device (10) has a control device A 501 242 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 415 - 64 - (402) comprises a system for determining and displaying a nozzle system of the suction nozzle (268) on the surface to be cleaned.

30. Cleaning device according to claim 29, characterized in that the control device (402) comprises at least one sensor device (404) for measuring at least one extraction parameter and a data processing device (406) cooperating with the at least one sensor device (404) for determining the system value as a function of the at least one extraction parameter.

31. Cleaning device according to claim 29 or 30, characterized in that the display device (378) is designed to display the specific asset value, in particular optically and / or acoustically and / or haptically.

32. Cleaning device according to claim 31, characterized in that the display device (378) comprises an optical display element (394) for generating a running light signal corresponding to the system value and indicating a recommended direction of movement for the handpiece (264).

33. Method for cleaning a surface with a cleaning device (10), in particular in the form of a spray extraction device (12), which comprises a suction device (16), a dirty water container (88) for receiving a dirty water solution sucked up by the suction device (16), a handpiece (264) with a suction nozzle (268) for being placed against a surface to be cleaned, a fresh water container (90) for receiving cleaning fluid that can be discharged onto the surface to be cleaned from a liquid outlet (276) on the handpiece (264), wherein the liquid outlet (276) is fluidly connected to the fresh water container (90), and a cleaning device hose (158), which A 501 242 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 415 - 65 - is fluidly connected or connectable on the one hand to the suction device (16) and on the other hand to the suction nozzle (268), characterized in that the suction device (16) is activated and deactivated by actuating an operating device (360) arranged or formed on the handpiece (264) and that the dispensing of the cleaning fluid is activated and deactivated by actuating the operating device (360).

Images