Suction nozzle, handpiece, and cleaning device

Abstract

The invention relates to a suction nozzle for a cleaning device, in particular for a spray-extraction device, wherein the suction nozzle comprises a suction inlet and is arranged or formed on a handpiece of the cleaning device, or is connected or can be connected to a handpiece of the cleaning device, wherein the suction nozzle comprises a deformable suction-contact element, wherein the deformable suction-contact element defines a suction-contact surface for planar engagement with a surface to be cleaned, and wherein the suction inlet is arranged or formed on the suction-contact element. The invention also relates to an improved handpiece and an improved cleaning device.

Description

[0001] A 501 243 z Applicant: Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG

[0002] October 17, 2025 Alfred-Kärcher-Strasse 28 - 40 z-390 / 374 / 415 71364 Winnenden

[0003] Suction nozzle, handpiece and cleaning device

[0004] The invention relates to a suction nozzle for a cleaning device, in particular for a spray extraction device, wherein the suction nozzle comprises a suction inlet and is arranged or formed on a handpiece of the cleaning device or is connected or connectable to a handpiece of the cleaning device.

[0005] Furthermore, the invention relates to a handpiece for a cleaning device, in particular for a spray extraction device, comprising a suction nozzle.

[0006] Furthermore, the invention relates to a cleaning device, in particular in the form of a spray extraction device, comprising a suction device and at least one liquid container for receiving a dirty water solution sucked up by the suction device, wherein the cleaning device comprises a cleaning device hose which is fluidly connected or connectable on the one hand to the suction device and on the other hand to a handpiece.

[0007] Suction nozzles, handpieces and cleaning devices are described, for example, in the unpublished German patent application 10 2022 111 009.5.

[0008] One problem with the use of such cleaning devices is, in particular, a limited suction effect on uneven surfaces, especially upholstery surfaces.

[0009] It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve a suction nozzle, a handpiece and a cleaning device of the type described above in such a way as to enable better suction on curved surfaces, in particular upholstery surfaces.

[0010] This problem is solved according to the invention in a suction nozzle of the type described above by the fact that the suction nozzle has a deformable suction system. A 501 243 z

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[0012] - 2 - element includes that the deformable suction system element defines a suction system surface for flat application to a surface to be cleaned and that the suction inlet is arranged or formed on the suction system element.

[0013] Known suction nozzles for extracting liquid from liquid- and air-permeable materials, such as the surface of upholstery on a piece of furniture or a vehicle seat, typically have only a small contact area. In contrast, the proposed improved suction nozzle of the type described above enables significantly improved contact and sealing, not only on flat but also on curved surfaces. Unlike known suction nozzles, good contact (i.e., good, even contact) and sealing of the proposed nozzle on the surface does not require high pressure to be applied to the nozzle and the surface. This also eliminates the need for excessive compression of the upholstery.With known nozzles, leaks typically occur when they are placed at an angle on the surface to be cleaned or when the surface is highly curved. These leaks allow air to enter the suction inlet not only through the surface being cleaned but also directly from the surrounding environment. This results in limited suction, as the unwanted air ingress reduces the negative pressure in the suction flow path between the suction inlet and the suction unit of a cleaning device. The proposed suction nozzle allows for a flat contact surface with the deformable suction element, enabling optimal sealing of the nozzle relative to the surface being cleaned. Consequently, the negative pressure generated by the cleaning device does not decrease—or at least not significantly—unlike in the prior art. This improves the drying results achieved with the suction nozzle, as proposed.The suction system element enables, in particular, an airtight connection to the surface to be cleaned, so that virtually no leakage air currents can occur that could impair the suction effect, for example, through upholstery fabric. In particular, the suction system element can be used in such a way as A 501 243 e.g.

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[0015] - 3 - The device must be designed to be malleable, allowing it to be applied airtight to an upholstery surface curved in multiple directions or planes, thus achieving excellent suction results. Cleaning upholstery, in particular, can therefore be carried out by a user without significant effort, as the malleable suction element can be applied flat to curved upholstery surfaces, ensuring a good seal and effective suction.

[0016] Advantageously, the suction system element is designed to be deformable in two dimensions, and especially in three. This allows it to be reliably applied to a two- or multi-dimensionally curved surface. The suction system element can thus be placed on or against the surface to be cleaned, creating a virtually complete seal. The entire suction flow can then only enter the suction nozzle through the suction inlet, and in particular through the material being cleaned. This ensures that the full suction power is available for removing dirt and cleaning fluid from the surface being cleaned, especially from upholstery.

[0017] It is advantageous if the suction nozzle comprises a nozzle body and a nozzle attachment, and if the nozzle attachment includes or forms the suction system element. This design makes it possible, in particular, to construct the suction nozzle in two or more parts. Specifically, it allows it to be made of different materials. For example, the nozzle body can be made of a rigid material, while the nozzle attachment and, in particular, the suction system element can be made of a soft, deformable material.

[0018] It is advantageous if the suction nozzle body and the nozzle attachment are designed to be detachably connected and are gas-tight in a working position and separated in a disconnected position. This design makes it particularly possible to replace the nozzle attachment as needed. Depending on the cleaning task to be performed, A 501 243 z

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[0020] - 4 - then the optimal nozzle attachment can be used. For example, different sized nozzle attachments with different sized suction inlets can be provided. Damaged or worn nozzle attachments can thus be easily replaced.

[0021] It is advantageous if the suction nozzle body and the nozzle attachment are equipped with interacting connecting elements that are engaged in the working position and disengaged in the disconnected position. These interacting connecting elements can be designed, in particular, as snap-fit ​​elements. For example, a snap-fit ​​or latching connection device can be provided to connect the nozzle body and nozzle attachment, enabling quick connection and also quick disconnection of the suction nozzle body and nozzle attachment.

[0022] Preferably, the suction system element is bonded to the suction nozzle body in a material-bonded and gas-tight manner. In particular, the suction system element can be injection-molded or bonded to the suction nozzle body. This allows for a one-piece formation of the nozzle attachment and the suction nozzle body. Unintentional leaks in the area of ​​the connecting elements when suction nozzle bodies and nozzle attachments are detachably connected can thus be reliably prevented.

[0023] According to a further preferred embodiment, the nozzle attachment may include a nozzle attachment coupling section, the suction nozzle body may include a suction nozzle body coupling section, and the nozzle attachment coupling section and the suction nozzle body coupling section may be engaged by force and / or form in a coupling position and disengaged in a separation position. This design of the nozzle attachment and suction nozzle body allows the two parts to be connected and separated easily and reliably. A 501 243 z

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[0026] It is advantageous if the free inner cross-section of the nozzle attachment increases in a plane parallel to the suction system element, starting from the suction inlet and moving towards the nozzle attachment coupling section. This allows for a minimum cross-section of the suction nozzle in the area of ​​the suction inlet, ensuring the highest possible flow velocity of the dirt solution being vacuumed in this area. This results in particularly good suction performance.

[0027] It is advantageous if the nozzle attachment coupling section has a receptacle for the suction nozzle body coupling section. This allows the nozzle attachment coupling section to be slid onto the suction nozzle body coupling section. This ensures a reliable all-around seal.

[0028] It is advantageous if the suction nozzle body and the suction nozzle body coupling section are made of a first material, if the suction system element and / or the nozzle attachment coupling section are made of a second material, and if the elastic modulus of the first material is greater than the elastic modulus of the second material. In particular, the elastic modulus of the first material can be at least ten times greater than the elastic modulus of the second material. This design allows for the creation of easily handled, stable suction nozzles with essentially non-deformable, i.e., deformation-resistant, suction nozzle bodies or suction nozzle body coupling sections. Deformability is then essentially or exclusively limited to the suction system element and / or the nozzle attachment coupling section. Deformability is achieved in particular through a suitable selection of the second material.

[0029] It is advantageous if the second material is highly lubricious and / or has a low-friction coating. This design allows the suction system element to glide virtually frictionlessly over the surface to be cleaned. A 501 243 z

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[0032] For a stable design of a suction nozzle body or a suction nozzle body coupling section, it is advantageous if the first material is a rigid plastic. In particular, the rigid plastic can be polyamide (PA).

[0033] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the second material is a rubber, a silicone, or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). In particular, the second material can be or contain ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), styrene block copolymer (TPS), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), or thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO). This allows for the creation of particularly well-formed suction system elements.

[0034] For particularly good suction results, it is advantageous if the suction inlet is designed in the form of at least one opening in the suction system element within the area or surface of the suction system. A dirty solution can then be drawn through this opening into the suction nozzle.

[0035] Particularly high flow velocities of the dirt liquor to be sucked up in the area of ​​the suction inlet can be achieved if the suction inlet is designed in the form of a slot with a slot length and a slot width.

[0036] For a good seal and contact between the suction system element and the surface to be cleaned, it is advantageous if the ratio of slot length to slot width is in the range of approximately 20:1 to approximately 80:1. In particular, the ratio can be in the range of approximately 30:1 to approximately 50:1.

[0037] To prevent the slot from collapsing during suction and thus from unwantedly closing the suction inlet, it is advantageous if the A 501 243 z

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[0040] The slot is divided into at least two slot sections by at least one transverse rib extending perpendicular to one of the slot's longitudinal directions. This transverse rib stabilizes the shape of the slot and thus the suction inlet of the nozzle during vacuuming. This effectively prevents the suction inlet from becoming unintentionally blocked during operation.

[0041] Preferably, the number of cross ribs is in the range of 2 to 20. In particular, the number of cross ribs can be in the range of 5 to 10. Multiple cross ribs improve the dimensional stability of the slot during extraction.

[0042] To minimize flow resistance, it is advantageous if at least one crossbar tapers away from the suction element. In particular, it can taper into a wedge shape.

[0043] For a good seal of the suction system element on a surface to be cleaned, it is advantageous if the suction system surface surrounds the suction inlet on all sides.

[0044] For optimal suction results, it is advantageous if the suction inlet defines a suction inlet area and if the ratio of the suction system area to the suction inlet area is in the range of approximately 5:1 to approximately 100:1. In particular, the ratio can be in the range of approximately 5:1 to approximately 40:1. The larger the value of the ratio, the larger the suction system area in contact with the surface to be cleaned. This allows for a good, and especially wide, seal around the suction inlet. The width of the suction system area around the suction inlet is preferably greater than the width of the suction inlet itself. If the suction inlet is shaped like a slot, the width of the suction system area is preferably at least five to ten times wider than the slot width. A 501 243 z

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[0047] For optimal adaptation of the suction system element to a surface to be cleaned, it is advantageous if it is designed to be elastic and / or flexible.

[0048] To further improve the deformability and adaptation of the nozzle attachment to a curved, especially multidimensionally curved, surface, it is advantageous if the nozzle attachment includes an elastically and / or flexibly deformable bellows element that connects the nozzle attachment coupling section and the suction system element. Deformation is thus not limited to the suction system element itself. Deformation in a direction transverse, especially perpendicular, to the suction system surface can then also be achieved by the bellows element. This allows larger surface curvatures to be optimally sealed with the suction nozzle during cleaning without requiring significant force.

[0049] The suction nozzle can be manufactured easily if the bellows element and the suction system element are formed in one piece, especially monolithically. For example, such a unit consisting of the bellows element and the suction system element can be easily produced by injection molding.

[0050] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the nozzle attachment is formed in one piece, particularly monolithically. This allows for simple manufacturing, for example by injection molding. It is also conceivable to injection mold the suction system element onto the nozzle attachment coupling section or to bond the suction system element to the nozzle attachment coupling section using a material-bonded process, for example by gluing or welding.

[0051] The problem stated at the outset is further solved according to the invention in a handpiece of the type described above by the fact that the suction nozzle is designed in the form of one of the suction nozzles described above. A 501 243 z

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[0054] The handpiece then offers the advantages already described above in connection with advantageous embodiments of suction nozzles. The handpiece can be guided by hand over a surface to be cleaned, for example, a curved cushion. Due to its special design, the suction nozzle, and in particular the suction system element it encompasses, adapts optimally and automatically to the surface. This prevents leakage airflow without requiring significant effort. With a good seal, multiple passes over the surface to be cleaned with the suction nozzle are not necessary. This allows for cleaning that is not only more efficient, but also faster and more energy-saving.

[0055] For cleaning a surface, especially upholstery, it is advantageous if the handpiece includes a liquid outlet for applying cleaning fluid to the surface. Dirt on the surface, such as a sofa cushion or car seat, can thus be loosened. The resulting solution of dirt and cleaning fluid can then be immediately vacuumed up with the suction nozzle. Water can be used as the cleaning fluid, optionally with the addition of a cleaning agent.

[0056] To improve the efficiency of cleaning a surface, especially an upholstery pad or fabric, it is advantageous for the handpiece to include at least one cleaning element. For example, this cleaning element can be a rotating brush roller. Alternatively or additionally, it can be a fixed brush, immovably attached to the handpiece, such as one or more rows of bristles. The flexible deformability of the suction element allows the user to adjust the overall orientation of the handpiece relative to the surface being cleaned as desired, without compromising the seal. Thus, the user can decide whether, as described in A 501 243 z

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[0058] - 10 - strong and at what angle the at least one cleaning element – ​​and thus the entire handpiece – should be brought into contact with the surface to be cleaned. He does not need to pay attention to optimal positioning of the suction element on the surface to be cleaned, because the deformable suction element automatically compensates for any change in the handpiece's orientation – at least to a certain extent.

[0059] For efficient surface cleaning, it is advantageous if the at least one cleaning element extends parallel to the suction element. Ideally, for example, a liquid outlet and the at least one cleaning element are arranged in the cleaning direction in front of the suction element, so that the surface to be cleaned is first exposed to cleaning fluid, then mechanically treated with the at least one cleaning element, and finally the dirty solution can be extracted from the surface with the suction nozzle.

[0060] Surfaces can be cleaned efficiently and quickly, particularly by positioning the at least one cleaning element in an area between the liquid outlet and the suction system element. As already explained, a cleaning fluid can be applied to the surface to be cleaned with a single pass. This is followed by mechanical cleaning with the at least one cleaning element, and finally, the dirty cleaning solution is extracted from the surface in a continuous pass.

[0061] The problem set out at the beginning is further solved in a cleaning device of the type described at the beginning according to the invention by the fact that the handpiece is designed in the form of one of the handpieces described above.

[0062] The cleaning device then exhibits the advantages already described above in connection with preferred embodiments of handpieces. Insbe- A 501 243 z

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[0064] - 11 - In particular, such a cleaning device can be used to clean curved surfaces, especially upholstery surfaces, in a simple and reliable way.

[0065] Ideally, the cleaning device is designed as a vacuum cleaner or a spray extraction machine. Depending on the type of device, surfaces, especially upholstery, can be cleaned either dry or wet.

[0066] The following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, in conjunction with the drawing, serves for further explanation. The drawing shows:

[0067] Figure 1: a perspective view of an embodiment of a cleaning device from the front in a storage position;

[0068] Figure 2: a perspective view of the arrangement from Figure 1 from behind;

[0069] Figure 3: a view of the arrangement from Figure 2 in the direction of arrow A;

[0070] Figure 4: a perspective view of the arrangement from Figure 1 with the liquid containers removed;

[0071] Figure 5: a sectional view of the cleaning device in a plane perpendicular to the impeller axis;

[0072] Figure 6: a partially cut-away side view of the cleaning device from Figure 2 in the direction of arrow A;

[0073] Figure 7: a partially cutaway view of the cleaning device without the liquid container; A 501 243 z

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[0076] Figure 8: a perspective exploded view of the two liquid containers;

[0077] Figure 9: a sectional view of the two liquid containers in the working position along line 9-9 in Figure 8;

[0078] Figure 10: an enlarged perspective partial view of the cleaning device in the area of ​​a hose attachment device;

[0079] Figure 11: an enlarged partial view of the cleaning device in the area of ​​a connection cable holding device;

[0080] Figure 12: a view similar to Figure 11 of the connecting cable holding device with pivoted safety projection;

[0081] Figure 13: a schematic representation of the cleaning device in the transport position with the transport handle extended when carried by a user;

[0082] Figure 14: a partially cutaway view of the transport device in the area of ​​the transport handle in a plane parallel to the back of the device;

[0083] Figure 15: a schematic representation of the cleaning device being pulled by a user in the manner of a trolley;

[0084] Figure 16: a schematic perspective view of a cleaning device placed on a staircase with the stair support device activated;

[0085] Figure 17: a partial sectional view of the cleaning device from Figure 16 in a plane parallel to the rear of the device; A 501 243 z

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[0088] Figure 18: another perspective view of the arrangement from Figure 16;

[0089] Figure 19: a schematic representation of an operating mode of the cleaning device on a display device on a handpiece of the cleaning device;

[0090] Figure 20: a view analogous to Figure 19 when depicting a different operating motor;

[0091] Figure 21: a view analogous to Figure 19 when illustrating another operating mode;

[0092] Figure 22: a view analogous to Figure 19 when illustrating another operating mode;

[0093] Figure 23: a partially enlarged view of the cleaning device with fill level indicators of the two liquid containers;

[0094] Figure 24: a partial view of one side of the cleaning device, with the two level indicators showing the first filling positions of the liquid containers;

[0095] Figure 25: a view analogous to Figure 24, where the two level indicators show different fill positions of the liquid containers;

[0096] Figure 26: a partial view of the cleaning device with main switch and cleaning agent tank level indicator;

[0097] Figure 27: a view analogous to Figure 26 with a half-full cleaning agent container;

[0098] Figure 28: a view analogous to Figure 26 with an empty cleaning agent container; A 501 243 z

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[0101] Figure 29: a schematic perspective view of the cleaning device during the cleaning of an upholstery;

[0102] Figure 30: an enlarged perspective view of a handpiece of the cleaning device with flexible suction nozzle;

[0103] Figure 31: a perspective view of the arrangement from Figure 30 from below;

[0104] Figure 32: an exploded view of the arrangement from Figure 30;

[0105] Figure 33: a longitudinal sectional view of the arrangement from Figure 30;

[0106] Figure 34: a sectional view along line 34-34 in Figure 33;

[0107] Figure 35: a sectional view along line 35-35 in Figure 33;

[0108] Figure 36: a partially open exploded view of the suction nozzle in the area of ​​the suction inlet;

[0109] Figure 37: a cross-sectional view of the arrangement from Figure 36 in a coupled position;

[0110] Figure 38: a partial view of the arrangement from Figure 31 with the nozzle attachment removed;

[0111] Figure 39: a perspective view of the nozzle attachment looking towards a nozzle attachment coupling section;

[0112] Figure 40: a perspective view of the nozzle attachment looking towards the deformable suction system element; A 501 243 z

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[0115] Figure 41: a schematic flowchart to illustrate an assistance function of the cleaning device;

[0116] Figure 42: a schematic representation of an embodiment of a cleaning device with an electrical energy storage device;

[0117] Figure 43: a schematic representation of an embodiment of a cleaning device with a control device;

[0118] Figure 44: another schematic representation of an embodiment of a cleaning device; and

[0119] Figure 45: another schematic representation of an embodiment of a cleaning device in the form of a suction device.

[0120] 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.

[0121] The cleaning device 10 includes a cleaning device body 14.

[0122] 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.

[0123] The drive mechanism 20 defines a support level 24. This protrudes beyond a device underside 26 of the cleaning device body 14.

[0124] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0127] 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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 pointing away from it.

[0130] 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.

[0131] The cleaning device body 14 is cuboid or essentially cuboid in shape. The front of the device 48 is aligned parallel or essentially parallel to the rear of the device 50. The A 501 243 z

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[0133] - 17 - Both sides of the device 44 and 46 are aligned parallel or essentially parallel to each other.

[0134] 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.

[0135] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the driving device 20 comprises a total of four wheels 22, thus at least two wheels 22.

[0136] 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.

[0137] The casters 64 define caster axes 66 running parallel to the support plane 24. Furthermore, the casters 64 can be rotated 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0142] The two wheels 70 protrude partially both from the underside of the device 26 and from the back of the device 50.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] A vertical projection of the wheels 70 onto the support plane 24 limits a wheel projection surface 86.

[0146] A perpendicular projection of the center of gravity 58 onto the support plane 24 lies within the wheel projection surface 86.

[0147] 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.

[0148] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the at least one liquid container 18 forms at least part of the upper surface 28 of the device. This is particularly evident in Figure 6. A 501 243 z

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[0151] The cleaning device 10, shown schematically 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 front of the device 48.

[0152] The compact cleaning device 10 assumes a stationary position during the intended operation of the cleaning device 10.

[0153] 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.

[0154] A filling opening 102 is provided on the fresh water tank 90, specifically in an upper area of ​​the wastewater tank 88, as shown schematically in Figure 5. In the operating position of the cleaning device 10, the filling opening 102 points towards the wastewater tank 88. A closing element 104 is provided for closing the filling opening 102.

[0155] 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 that is 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 from a tap, which A 501 243 z

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[0157] - 20 - a cleaning fluid is formed, and the fresh water level is filled until it reaches the filling opening 102. When the filled fresh water tank 90 is pivoted back 90° into its upright position as shown schematically 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 water level in the fresh water tank 90 is lower than the filling opening 102 in the direction of gravity 32. Fresh water cannot escape from the fresh water tank 90 even if a user forgets to close the filling opening 102 with the sealing element 104.

[0158] 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.

[0159] To couple the two liquid containers 18, the cleaning device 10 includes a liquid container coupling device 106. This includes coupling elements 108, 110 and 112 arranged or formed on the two liquid containers 18, which are disengaged in the separation position and are engaged by force and / or form in the working position.

[0160] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0163] 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.

[0164] 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.

[0165] 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 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.

[0166] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0168] - 22 -

[0169] 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.

[0170] 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.

[0171] As shown schematically in dashed lines in Figure 3, the container carrying handle 128 must be pivoted about the pivot axis 132 with the handle section 130 to move it from the locking position to a removal position in which the liquid containers 18 can be removed from the liquid container receptacle 118. This pivoting motion ensures 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.

[0172] On one of the two liquid containers 18, namely on the wastewater container 88, a separator 140 is provided for separating liquid and gaseous components of the dirty water A 501 243 z sucked up by the cleaning device 10.

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[0174] - 23 - arranged or formed. The dirty water 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, which deflects the dirty water onto a slightly inclined drainage surface 146 on the wastewater tank 88 relative to a plane running perpendicular to the vertical axis 30. From there, a liquid component of the dirty water can then flow off and be collected in a receiving chamber 148 of the wastewater tank 88.

[0175] The wastewater tank 88 is penetrated 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.

[0176] The described separation device 140 comprises a single separation stage. Optionally, a second separation stage can also be provided in other embodiments.

[0177] 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.

[0178] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0180] - 24 -

[0181] The hose connection 160 is positioned below the fresh water tank 90, specifically in a recess 162 of the same. The cleaning device hose 158 is led out of the front of the device 48 in the area of ​​the recess 162.

[0182] 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.

[0183] The distance 164 is approximately one third of the device height 34.

[0184] Furthermore, in the cleaning device 10, the dirty water inlet 94 is fluidly connected to the hose connection 160.

[0185] The air outlet 96 is fluidly connected to a suction-side suction inlet 168 of the suction device 16. This configuration makes it possible to create a flow of dirty water from the cleaning device hose 158 through the hose connection 160 to the channel 142 and through this into the dirty water tank 88, as well as an airflow from the dirty water tank 88 out through the channel 152 and through the air outlet 96 into the fan 78.

[0186] A pressure-side suction outlet 170 of the suction device 16 is fluidly connected to an exhaust outlet 172 of the cleaning device 10.

[0187] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0189] - 25 -

[0190] The exhaust air outlet 172 is located or formed on the underside 26 of the device.

[0191] 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.

[0192] 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.

[0193] The technical chamber 178 is arranged or designed above the suction chamber 176 against the direction of gravity. Because the technical chamber 178 adjoins the liquid container receptacle 118, it also adjoins the wastewater tank 88 in the operating position.

[0194] 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.

[0195] The fresh water pump 126 is also located in the technical compartment 178. A 501 243 z

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[0197] - 26 -

[0198] 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.

[0199] 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.

[0200] The cleaning device 10 shown schematically in the figures is designed as a mains connection device and includes a connecting cable 198 leading out of the cleaning device body 14 with a plug 200 for plugging into a socket.

[0201] 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.

[0202] 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- A 501 243 z

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[0204] - 27 - rungsvorsprung 208 either in the direction of gravity, as schematically shown in Figure 11, or against the direction of gravity, as schematically shown in Figure 12.

[0205] 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.

[0206] The cleaning device 10 includes a transport device 210 for moving the cleaning device 10 by a user 212.

[0207] In an embodiment not shown in the figures, the transport device 210 can include a carrying device. This can be arranged or formed, in particular, on the rear of the device 50. The user 212 can then carry the cleaning device 10 on their back 214 like a backpack.

[0208] 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.

[0209] In an embodiment not shown in the figures, the transport handle 216 is pivotably arranged or designed on the cleaning device body 14. A 501 243 z

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[0211] - 28 -

[0212] 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.

[0213] 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.

[0214] 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°.

[0215] 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 handle section 218 projects beyond 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.

[0216] 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. The swivel casters 64 are in the pulling position from a floor 234 over which the cleaning device 10 is being pulled.

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[0218] - 29 - is lifted off. The cleaning device 10 then rests on the floor 234 only with its two wheels 70.

[0219] 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.

[0220] 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.

[0221] 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.

[0222] 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.

[0223] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the stair support device 238 is designed separately from the transport device 210.

[0224] 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 A 501 243 z

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[0226] - 30 - protrudes from the underside of the device 26 above the support level 24 in order to place and support the cleaning device 10 on a staircase 248 in an analogous manner as shown schematically in Figure 16.

[0227] 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.

[0228] 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.

[0229] Optionally, the cleaning device 10 can have both a mains connection and an electrical energy storage device 254.

[0230] The cleaning device 10, shown schematically in the figures, is designed in the form of a spray extraction device.

[0231] 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.

[0232] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0234] - 31 -

[0235] 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.

[0236] 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.

[0237] 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.

[0238] 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.

[0239] 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.

[0240] The roller axis 288 of the roller body 284 extends transversely, namely perpendicularly and laterally offset from a grip area axis 290, which is defined by a grip area 292 of the handpiece 264. A 501 243 z

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[0242] - 32 -

[0243] 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.

[0244] 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.

[0245] The suction nozzle 268 comprises a deformable suction system element 302. It defines a suction surface 304 for flat contact with the surface to be cleaned, for example the upholstery 260. The suction inlet 270 is arranged on or formed on the suction system element 302.

[0246] 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.

[0247] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0249] - 33 -

[0250] 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.

[0251] The crossbars 316 taper away from the suction system element 302, in particular in a wedge shape.

[0252] The suction system surface 304 surrounds the suction inlet 270 on all sides.

[0253] 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.

[0254] 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 to 40:1. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the ratio is approximately 11:1.

[0255] 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.

[0256] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0258] - 34 -

[0259] 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.

[0260] 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.

[0261] In alternative embodiments not shown, the suction system element 302 and the suction nozzle body 324 are joined in a material-bonded and gas-tight manner. 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.

[0262] 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 positive locking, as shown schematically in Figure 37, and in a separation position, as shown schematically in Figure 36, they are disengaged. A 501 243 z

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[0264] - 35 -

[0265] 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.

[0266] 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.

[0267] 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.

[0268] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first material is a hard plastic. For example, this could be polyamide (PH).

[0269] 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).

[0270] To better adapt the suction system element to surfaces to be cleaned, especially those with three-dimensional shapes, the nozzle attachment 326 A 501 243 z

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[0272] - 36 - an elastically and / or flexibly deformable bellows element 344. This connects the nozzle attachment coupling section 336 and the suction system element 302 in a movably connected manner. The bellows element 344 has a material thickness that is slightly less than that of the suction system element 302. This allows the deformation of the nozzle attachment 326 between the suction system element 302 and the nozzle attachment coupling section 336 in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular to the suction system surface 304, to be achieved by the bellows element 344. The bellows element 344 also limits a flow section of a suction flow guide 412 extending from the suction system element 302 to the nozzle attachment coupling section 336.

[0273] The bellows element 344 and the suction system element 302 are formed in one piece, namely monolithically.

[0274] Furthermore, the nozzle attachment 326 is entirely monolithic, meaning it is made in one piece.

[0275] 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 to, or substantially parallel to, the handle area axis 290. The suction nozzle 268 and the handle area 292 are formed as a single unit. A suction channel 346 extends from the suction nozzle body coupling section 338 to a rear end of the handpiece 264, where it is connected, or can be connected, to the cleaning device hose 158 by means of the coupling device 274.

[0276] 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 connected forward to an A 501 243 z.

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[0278] - 37 -

[0279] Sight glass 352 is closed. This allows a user to see into the suction channel, specifically into an area that is directly adjacent to the suction nozzle body coupling section 338.

[0280] 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.

[0281] 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.

[0282] 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.

[0283] Furthermore, an operating device 360 ​​is arranged or formed in the transition area from the handle area 292 to the suction nozzle 268.

[0284] 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 the cleaning fluid.

[0285] The operating device 360 ​​is further designed to activate and deactivate the drive device 294 for moving the cleaning element 280. A 501 243 z

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[0287] - 38 -

[0288] 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.

[0289] 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.

[0290] 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.

[0291] In the embodiments shown in the figures, the operating device 360 ​​is permanently and in a non-removable manner connected to the handpiece 264 as intended.

[0292] The operating device 360 ​​is partly arranged or formed on a handle area top 364 and partly on a handle area back 366.

[0293] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0295] - 39 -

[0296] 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.

[0297] 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.

[0298] 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.

[0299] All four operating elements 368, 370, 372 and 376 of the operating unit 360 are designed in the form of 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.

[0300] 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.

[0301] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0303] - 40 -

[0304] 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.

[0305] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the operating device 360 ​​comprises the display device 378.

[0306] In one embodiment where the mobile device forms the operating unit 360, the display of the mobile device forms the display unit 378.

[0307] 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.

[0308] 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.

[0309] 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.

[0310] 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 in the form of an optical display element and surrounds the main switch 250 in a ring shape. The operating status indicator 368 can display an A 501 243 z

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[0312] - 41 -

[0313] The operating status of cleaning device 10 is indicated by different colors. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0314] 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.

[0315] 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.

[0316] 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.

[0317] 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.

[0318] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0320] - 42 -

[0321] 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.

[0322] If the cleaning fluid - preferably water is used for this purpose -

[0323] - If cleaning agent is to be added, the user 212 can actuate the third control element 372 with their middle finger 390. As a result of actuation of this element, both the cleaning fluid pump 374 and the cleaning agent dispensing device 362 are activated, so that cleaning fluid with the added cleaning agent can be dispensed from the liquid outlet 276.

[0324] Figures 19 to 22 show, by way of example, the use of the operating device 360 ​​and the display device 378.

[0325] 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.

[0326] 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.

[0327] 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 still allows the cleaning device 10 to continue operating, but in A 501 243 z

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[0329] - 43 - in the foreseeable future either the emptying of the wastewater tank 88 or the refilling of the fresh water tank 90 or the refilling of the cleaning agent tank 182 will be required.

[0330] 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.

[0331] 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.

[0332] 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 upper surface 364 of the handle area. It is U-shaped and open in the direction of the suction nozzle 268. The fourth indicator element 394 can display the same color states as the indicator elements 380, 382, ​​and 384, namely green, yellow, and red. However, it can also remain off.

[0333] Before the functionality of the fourth indicator element 394 is explained, the functionality of three first, second, and third level indicator elements 396, 398, and 400, assigned to the wastewater tank 88, the fresh water tank 90, and the detergent tank 128, respectively, will first be explained in conjunction with Figures 23 to 28. A 501 243 z

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[0335] - 44 -

[0336] 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.

[0337] 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.

[0338] 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 90, and an empty fresh water tank 90 by a red illuminated second level indicator element 398.

[0339] 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.

[0340] 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 present or is not present.

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[0342] - 45 - functions only to a limited extent or if, 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.

[0343] 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.

[0344] The asset value can be displayed using the fourth display element, 394. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0345] 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.

[0346] The control device 402 comprises at least one sensor device 404 for measuring at least one extraction parameter. With the sensor device A 501 243 z

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[0348] - 46 -

[0349] Working together, the control unit 404 includes a data processing unit 406 of the cleaning device 10 for determining the system value as a function of at least one measured extraction parameter. Furthermore, the control unit 402 includes a display unit 358 for displaying the determined system value. The display unit 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.

[0350] 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.

[0351] 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.

[0352] 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.

[0353] 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. A 501 243 z

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[0355] - 47 -

[0356] 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.

[0357] 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.

[0358] The data processing unit 406 is designed to compare the measured extraction parameter with an extraction parameter limit value and to determine a comparison value that indicates whether the extraction parameter is lower or higher than the extraction parameter limit value. The determined comparison value is then assigned to the system value. Thus, the system value determined by comparison indicates whether a value above or below the extraction parameter limit value was measured. Accordingly, there are two displayable states, which can be signaled to the user by the colors red and green.

[0359] Figure 44 schematically shows the operating device 360 ​​and the display device 378 operatively connected to the control and / or regulating device 180 via a connecting cable 408. The connecting cable 408 can comprise several lines to transmit control and data signals between the A 501 243 z

[0360] October 17, 2025 z-390 / 374 / 415

[0361] - 48 -

[0362] to replace handpiece 264 and the control and / or regulating device 180.

[0363] 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.

[0364] 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 if the measured value falls below a particle threshold, the feedback on the fourth display element 394 remains unchanged. However, if particles are detected in step S5, the feedback to the user 212 via the fourth display element 394 changes in step S6. This element switches to a running light mode, indicating to the user 212 that the surface to be cleaned is not yet as dry as desired and requires further vacuuming. The running light intuitively guides the user to move the suction nozzle 268 back over the surface to be cleaned towards them.

[0365] If, in step S3, the vacuum sensor detects a vacuum value that is greater than the vacuum limit, the fourth display element A 501 243 z signals

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[0367] - 49 -

[0368] 394 provides the user with a nozzle system. The fourth indicator element then lights up constantly green.

[0369] 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.

[0370] A 501 243 z

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[0372] - 50 -

[0373] Reference symbol list

[0374] 10 Cleaning device

[0375] 12 Spray extraction machine

[0376] 14 Cleaning device bodies

[0377] 16 Suction unit

[0378] 18 liquid containers

[0379] 20 Driving equipment

[0380] 22 wheel

[0381] 24th level of insurgency

[0382] 26 Device underside

[0383] 28 Device top

[0384] 30 Vertical axis

[0385] 32 Direction of gravity

[0386] 34 Device height

[0387] 36 distance

[0388] 38 Footprint

[0389] 40 device width

[0390] 42 device length

[0391] 44 Device page

[0392] 46 Device page

[0393] 48 Device front

[0394] 50 Device back

[0395] 52 front upper edge

[0396] 54 rear lower edge

[0397] 56 Section plane

[0398] 58 Focus

[0399] 60 distance

[0400] 62 distance

[0401] 64 Swivel caster

[0402] 66 Swivel caster axle

[0403] 68 Steering axle A 501 243 z

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[0405] - 51 -

[0406] 70 wheel

[0407] 72 Wheel axle

[0408] 74 swivel caster diameter

[0409] 76 wheel diameter

[0410] 78 fans

[0411] 80 fan impeller

[0412] 82 Fan drive

[0413] 84 Fan impeller axle

[0414] 86 wheel projection area

[0415] 88 wastewater tanks

[0416] 90 Fresh Water Containers

[0417] 92 Wastewater tank bottom

[0418] 94 Dirty Fleet Inlet

[0419] 96 Air outlet

[0420] 98 Jump back

[0421] 100 lead

[0422] 102 Bef ü Hoffnung

[0423] 104 Locking element

[0424] 106 Liquid container coupling device

[0425] 108 Coupling element

[0426] 110 coupling element

[0427] 112 Coupling element

[0428] 114 Locking lever

[0429] 116 Handle section

[0430] 118 Liquid container holder

[0431] 120 Fresh water tank bottom

[0432] 122 Fresh water outlet

[0433] 124 valve

[0434] 126 Fresh water pump

[0435] 128 Container carrying handle

[0436] 130 handle section

[0437] 132 Swivel axis

[0438] 134 Handle locking element A 501 243 z

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[0440] - 52 -

[0441] 136 Exclusion

[0442] 138 thighs

[0443] 140 Separation device

[0444] Channel 142

[0445] 144 container lids

[0446] 146 Drainage area

[0447] 148 Container storage space

[0448] 150 deflection range

[0449] Channel 152

[0450] 154 Channel Inlet

[0451] 156 Deflection bends

[0452] 158 Cleaning device hose

[0453] 160 hose connection

[0454] 162 recess

[0455] 164 distance

[0456] 166 steps

[0457] 168 Suction device inlet

[0458] 170 Suction device outlet

[0459] 172 Exhaust outlet

[0460] 174 Filter unit

[0461] 176 Suction unit chamber

[0462] 178 Technical Chamber

[0463] 180 Control and / or regulating device

[0464] 182 cleaning agent containers

[0465] 184 Cleaning agent dosing device

[0466] 186 Cleaning agent pump

[0467] 188 Hose fastening device

[0468] 190 rubber loop

[0469] 192 hooks

[0470] 194 Device handle

[0471] 196 Accessory mount

[0472] 198 connection cables

[0473] 200 plugs A 501 243 z

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[0475] - 53 -

[0476] 202 Connection cable holding device

[0477] 204 Holding advantage

[0478] 206 Longitudinal axis of the retaining projection

[0479] 208 Safety margin

[0480] 210 Transport equipment

[0481] 212 users

[0482] 214 Back

[0483] 216 Transport handle

[0484] 218 Transport handle section

[0485] 220 carrying pads

[0486] 222 Direction of withdrawal

[0487] 224 Extension angle

[0488] 226 Device rear level

[0489] 228 Arm

[0490] 230 shoulder

[0491] 232 Hand

[0492] 234 Floor

[0493] 236 Device handle section

[0494] 238 Stair support device

[0495] 240 steps

[0496] 242 steps

[0497] 244 Support element

[0498] 246 support surface

[0499] 248 Stairs

[0500] 250 main switches

[0501] 252 Top

[0502] 254 Energy storage device

[0503] 256 Battery

[0504] 258 suction device

[0505] 260 cushions

[0506] 262 pieces of seating furniture

[0507] 264 Handpiece

[0508] 266 free end A 501 243 z

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[0510] - 54 -

[0511] 268 Suction nozzle

[0512] 270 Intake

[0513] 272 Suction channel

[0514] 274 Coupling device

[0515] 276 Liquid outlet

[0516] 278 Spray nozzle

[0517] 280 cleaning element

[0518] 282 Brush roller

[0519] 284 roller bodies

[0520] 286 bristle bundles

[0521] 288 Roller axle

[0522] 290 Grip area axis

[0523] 292 Grip area

[0524] 294 Drive unit

[0525] 296 gear

[0526] 298 gear

[0527] 300 gear

[0528] 302 Suction system element

[0529] 304 Suction system area

[0530] 306 Breakthrough

[0531] 308 slots

[0532] 310 slot length

[0533] 312 slot width

[0534] 314 Slot longitudinal direction

[0535] 316 Crossbar

[0536] 318 Slot section

[0537] 320 length

[0538] 322 width

[0539] 324 Suction nozzle bodies

[0540] 326 Nozzle attachment

[0541] 328 Connecting element

[0542] 330 Connecting element

[0543] 332 Locking projection A 501 243 e.g

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[0545] - 55 -

[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 rear

[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 501 243 z

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[0580] - 56 -

[0581] 400 third level indicator element

[0582] 402 Control device

[0583] 404 Sensor device

[0584] 406 Data processing equipment

[0585] 408 connecting cables

[0586] 410 Vacuum sensor

[0587] 412 Suction flow guidance

[0588] 416 free end

[0589] 418 Center area

Claims

A 501 243 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 374 / 415 - 57 - Patent claims 1. Suction nozzle (268) for a cleaning device (10), in particular for a spray extraction device (12), wherein the suction nozzle (268) comprises a suction inlet (270) and is arranged or formed on a handpiece (264) of the cleaning device (10) or is connected or connectable to a handpiece (264) of the cleaning device (10), characterized in that the suction nozzle (268) comprises a deformable suction system element (302), that the deformable suction system element (302) defines a suction system surface for flat contact with a surface to be cleaned, and that the suction inlet (270) is arranged or formed on the suction system element (302).

2. Suction nozzle according to claim 1, characterized in that the suction system element (302) is designed to be deformable in two dimensions, in particular in three dimensions.

3. Suction nozzle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction nozzle (268) comprises a suction nozzle body (324) and a nozzle attachment (326) and that the nozzle attachment (326) comprises or forms the suction system element (302).

4. Suction nozzle according to claim 3, characterized in that the suction nozzle body (324) and the nozzle attachment (326) are designed to be detachably connectable to one another and are gas-tightly connected to one another in a working position and separated from one another in a separating position.

5. Suction nozzle according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that cooperating connecting elements (328, 330), in particular in the form of locking elements, are formed on the suction nozzle body (324) and on the nozzle attachment (326), which are in engagement with each other in the working position and are disengaged in the separation position. A 501 243 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 374 / 415 - 58 - 6. Suction nozzle according to claim 3, characterized in that the suction system element (302) is materially bonded and gas-tightly connected to the suction nozzle body (324), in particular by injection molding or bonding.

7. Suction nozzle according to one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the nozzle attachment (326) comprises a nozzle attachment coupling section (336), that the suction nozzle body (324) comprises a suction nozzle body coupling section (338) and that the nozzle attachment coupling section (336) and the suction nozzle body coupling section (338) are engaged in a force-locking and / or form-locking position in a coupling position and are disengaged in a separating position.

8. Suction nozzle according to claim 7, characterized in that a free inner cross-section (342) of the nozzle attachment (326) increases in a plane parallel to the suction system element (302) starting from the suction inlet (270) in the direction towards the nozzle attachment coupling section (336).

9. Suction nozzle according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the nozzle attachment coupling section (336) has a receptacle (340) for the suction nozzle body coupling section (338).

10. Suction nozzle according to one of claims 3 to 9, characterized in that the suction nozzle body (324) or the suction nozzle body coupling section (338) is made of a first material, that the suction system element (302) and / or the nozzle attachment coupling section (336) is made of a second material, and that the modulus of elasticity of the first material is greater than the modulus of elasticity of the second material, in particular at least ten times greater.

11. Suction nozzle according to claim 10, characterized in that the second material is designed to be highly lubricious and / or is provided with a lubricious coating. A 501 243 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 374 / 415 - 59 - 12. Suction nozzle according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the first material is a hard plastic, in particular polyamide (PA).

13. Suction nozzle according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the second material is a rubber, a silicone or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), in particular an ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM), a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a styrene block copolymer (TPS), a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) and / or a thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO).

14. Suction nozzle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction inlet (270) is formed in the form of at least one opening (306) of the suction system element (302) in the area or in the suction system surface (304).

15. Suction nozzle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction inlet (270) is designed in the form of a slot (308) with a slot length (310) and a slot width (312).

16. Suction nozzle according to claim 15, characterized in that the ratio of slot length (310) and slot width (312) is in a range of about 20:1 to about 80:1, in particular in a range of about 30:1 to about 50:

1.

17. Suction nozzle according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the slot (308) is divided into at least two slot sections (318) by at least one transverse web (316) extending transversely to a slot longitudinal direction (314).

18. Suction nozzle according to claim 17, characterized in that a number of crossbars (316) have a value in a range of two to 20, in particular a value in a range of 5 to 10. A 501 243 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 374 / 415 - 60 - 19. Suction nozzle according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the at least one transverse web (316) tapers in the direction away from the suction system element (302), in particular in a wedge shape.

20. Suction nozzle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction system surface (304) surrounds the suction inlet (270) on all sides.

21. Suction nozzle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction inlet (270) defines a suction inlet area and that the ratio of the suction system area (304) to the suction inlet area is in a range of about 5:1 to about 100:1, in particular in a range of about 5:1 to about 40:

1.

22. Suction nozzle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction system element (362) is elastic and / or flexible.

23. Suction nozzle according to one of claims 7 to 20, characterized in that the nozzle attachment (322) comprises an elastically and / or flexibly deformable bellows element (344) which movably connects the nozzle attachment coupling section (336) and the suction system element (302).

24. Suction nozzle according to claim 23, characterized in that the bellows element (344) and the suction system element (302) are formed in one piece, in particular monolithically.

25. Suction nozzle according to one of claims 3 to 24, characterized in that the nozzle attachment (326) is formed in one piece, in particular monolithically. A 501 243 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 374 / 415 - 61 - 26. Handpiece (264) for a cleaning device (10), in particular for a spray extraction device (12), comprising a suction nozzle (268), characterized in that the suction nozzle (268) is designed in the form of a suction nozzle (268) according to one of the preceding claims.

27. Handpiece according to claim 26, characterized by a liquid outlet (276) for applying a cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned.

28. Handpiece according to claim 26 or 27, characterized in that the handpiece (264) comprises at least one cleaning element (280), in particular in the form of a rotatable brush roller (282).

29. Handpiece according to claim 28, characterized in that the at least one cleaning element (280) extends parallel to the suction system element (302).

30. Handpiece according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that the at least one cleaning element (380) is arranged in an area between the liquid outlet (276) and the suction system element (302).

31. Cleaning device (10), in particular in the form of a spray extraction device (12), comprising a suction device (16) and at least one liquid container (18) for receiving a dirty water solution sucked up with the suction device (16), wherein the cleaning device (10) comprises a cleaning device hose (158) which is fluidly connected or connectable on the one hand to the suction device (16) and on the other hand to a handpiece (264), characterized in that the handpiece (264) is designed in the form of a handpiece (264) according to one of claims 26 to 30. A 501 243 z October 17, 2025 z-390 / 374 / 415 - 62 - 32. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning device (10) is designed in the form of a suction device (258) or a spray extraction device (12).

Images