EP3269286B1 - Rinsing device - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to a rinsing device for increasing the quality of the rinsing of a cleaning device in order to facilitate and improve the cleanliness of a surface cleaning.

Such a device, for private or professional use, can be used to improve the rinsing of any type of cleaning device, and in particular those of the wet mop type such as mop, wipe or mop mops, to name only these examples.

STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

For many years now, many types of wet mops have been proposed in order to facilitate the cleaning of floors. All these brushes have thus made it possible to obtain significant gains in terms of cleaning quality and ease of use.

However, all these brushes also raise rinsing and spinning problems, good rinsing and good spinning being essential to maintain the quality of cleaning over time. In fact, during cleaning, the cleaning head of the broom becomes covered with dirt which should be removed during rinsing so as not to risk re-depositing them later on the surface to be cleaned. Additionally, some brooms may have difficulty picking up new dirt if their cleaning head is already heavily covered with dirt.

Therefore, many wiping devices have been proposed: some are mounted in a bucket, others are provided directly on the broom. However, all of them have in common that they use a single reservoir of cleaning liquid for rinsing the mop head: the latter is thus soaked in the cleaning liquid and then wrung out using the wringing device. However, regardless of the effectiveness of the wringing device, the cleaning liquid is gradually contaminated by the dirt released by the cleaning head: therefore, quickly, the quality of the rinsing deteriorates, dirt can be redeposited on the mop head when the mop is soaked in the cleaning fluid reservoir. As a result, hygiene and cleaning quality end up degrading, which mechanically extends cleaning time. Such a device is disclosed in the document US 2007 113,418 .

There is therefore a real need for a rinsing device making it possible to increase the quality of the rinsing of a cleaning device. in order to facilitate and improve the cleanliness of a surface cleaning and which is devoid, at least in part, of the drawbacks inherent in the aforementioned known devices.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a rinsing device for a cleaning device, comprising a first tank intended to collect dirty water coming from the cleaning device, a second tank intended to store clean water, and a pumping device, mechanical. , configured to pump clean water from the second tank to humidify the cleaning device.

Thus, by virtue of such a rinsing device, it is possible to collect the dirty water coming from the cleaning device in a dedicated tank and to reinject into the cleaning device clean water, coming from a separate tank. Therefore, the dirt present on the cleaning device is released and discharged into the dirty water tank and does not contaminate the clean water tank: the cleaning device is therefore rinsed with water which remains clean throughout the entire cycle. cleaning.

As a result, the cleaning device is restored to a high state of cleanliness at the end of each of the rinsing cycles so that the cleanliness and quality of cleaning remains high throughout the cleaning.

This rinsing device is also more ecological since it makes it possible to reduce the quantities of water and detergent used, the head of the cleaning device no longer having to be completely immersed in the cleaning liquid. Such a configuration also allows a reduced bulk.

In the present description, the terms “axial”, “radial”, “tangential”, “interior”, “exterior” and their derivatives are defined with respect to the main axis of the rinsing device; The term “axial plane” is understood to mean a plane passing through the main axis of the rinsing device and the term “radial plane” means a plane perpendicular to this main axis; finally, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are defined in relation to the circulation of clean water in the rinsing device. In addition, the term “clean water” is understood to mean any cleaning liquid comprising essentially water, optionally mixed with a detergent or another cleaning product. cleaning. The pumping device is rotary, centrifugal or wheel for example.

According to the present invention, the pumping device is configured to be activated through the cleaning device. The rinsing device is thus very easy to use: the user can keep the cleaning device in hand, avoiding hazardous handling that risks dropping the cleaning device, and is not forced, for example, to activate a joystick or a particular pedal. In addition, the rinsing device can be activated while remaining at a distance, which ensures a more hygienic use, the user not being forced to directly manipulate the rinsing device or the cleaning head of the cleaning device; this further reduces the risk of the user being splashed during rinsing.

The pumping device is configured to pump clean water when an activating member of the pumping device is rotated.

According to the present invention, the pumping device is configured to pump clean water when an activating member of the pumping device is rotated by the cleaning device. Such a configuration is particularly suitable when the cleaning device is provided with a drive mechanism in rotation, in particular of the type allowing spinning by centrifugation. Indeed, in such a case, the pumping device is triggered by the activation of the wiping device of the cleaning device, without it being necessary to provide a separate actuator: in a single gesture, the user can thus start spinning and pumping clean water.

The pumping device is from rotary type.

In some embodiments, the pumping device includes an Archimedean screw. Such a setup is everything particularly effective for raising water, substantially vertically, from a reservoir to a level located above the reservoir.

In some embodiments, the rinsing device includes a tray provided to contact the cleaning device. Such a plate offers a large surface allowing easier cooperation with the rinsing device.

In some embodiments, the pumping device is configured to run clean water along the tray. The cleaning device can then soak up clean water when in contact with the surface of the tray.

In some embodiments, the second reservoir comprises a cover and the tray is formed by this cover.

In some embodiments, the surface of the tray slopes outward. It can in particular be conical or domed. In this way, excess clean water can be drained from the surface of the tray, preferably to the dirty water tank: this avoids leaving stagnant water, possibly contaminated by the broom, on the surface of the tray. .

In certain embodiments, the rinsing device comprises a connection member configured to cooperate with a connection member of the cleaning device. This makes it possible to index the position of the cleaning device on the rinsing device in order to facilitate the use of the latter. These connection members can also block the cleaning device to prevent it from moving during rinsing. They can also allow the transmission of a torque from the cleaning device to the rinsing device.

In certain embodiments, the connection member is mounted in rotation with respect to the plate. This allows relative rotational movement between the cleaning device and the rinsing device, which can facilitate wringing out of the cleaning device.

In some embodiments, the flushing device includes an elevation mechanism configured to move the connecting member between at least a lower level and an upper level. Thus, when the connection member is located at the lower level, the cleaning device is in contact with the clean water supplied by the pumping device and can therefore be rinsed; conversely, when the connection member is located on the upper level, the cleaning device is located away from clean water and can then be wrung out without being rewetted.

In some embodiments, the elevation mechanism is configured such that when the connector member is positioned at the lower level, the cleaner is flush with the surface of the tray. The passage of clean water from the surface of the tray to the cleaning device is thus facilitated.

In some embodiments, at least two centimeters, and preferably three centimeters, separate the upper level from the lower level. Thus, the risk that the cleaning device continues to be moistened in the upper position is reduced, even when the cleaning device has fringes hanging towards the tray. The cleaning device can then be wrung out effectively.

In certain embodiments, the elevation mechanism comprises a cam surface, integral in translation with the plate, and at least one follower element, integral in translation with the connection member. In the present description, it is considered that two parts are “integral in translation” when the displacement of one part according to a translational movement integrally drives the movement of the other part according to the same translational movement; on the other hand, these two parts are free to rotate independently of one another, one being able for example to be mounted in rotation with respect to the other.

In other embodiments, the cam surface is integral in translation with the connection member while the follower element is integral in translation with the plate.

In some embodiments, the lifting mechanism is configured to include at least one lower stable position, in which the connection member is at the lower level, and at least one upper stable position, in which the member connection is on the upper level.

In some embodiments, the elevation mechanism includes a return member configured to return the follower member to a stable position, the follower member being able to move from one stable position to the next by exerting a predetermined force on it. against the return force of the return element. Thus, the user only needs to push the cleaning device down to move from one stable position to the next. In particular, when the cleaning device comprises a rotational drive device transforming a vertical movement of a sleeve or of the cleaning device itself into a rotational movement, the simple activation of this drive device can make it possible to move from one stable position to the next.

In other embodiments, the lifting device is devoid of a return element. In such a case, gravity can make it possible to define the stable positions: the user then passes from one stable position to another by lifting the cleaning device.

In some embodiments, the elevation mechanism includes several successive lower stable positions. Preferably, it comprises at least three successive lower stable positions. In this way, the cleaning device remains sufficient time in its lower position to allow effective rinsing before going up to the upper position.

In some embodiments, the lifting mechanism comprises at least one intermediate stable position in which the connecting member is located at an intermediate level between the lower level and the upper level. In this way, the cleaning device does not rise suddenly and abruptly from the lower level to the upper level but passes through at least one intermediate level: the lifting movement is therefore gradual, which avoids surprising the user. The risk of splashing during elevation is also reduced.

In some embodiments, the lifting mechanism is configured such that the force to be exerted against the return force of the return member to leave an upper stable position is greater, preferably at least twice. more important than the force to be exerted to leave a lower stable position. In this way, the risk of the cleaning device moving from the upper position to the lower position unintentionally is reduced. In particular, when the cleaning device is provided with a rotary drive device actuated by vertical reciprocating movements, it is possible to actuate the latter without necessarily exceed this greater predetermined force and therefore without going back down to the lower position: the user must thus voluntarily exert a greater force to reach the next stable position at the chosen moment. Thus, it is possible to perform as many spinning movements as desired while remaining in the upper position, away from clean water.

In certain embodiments, the flushing device comprises a clutch mechanism configured to allow or prevent, according to a predetermined condition, the transmission of the rotation from the connecting member to the activating member. This leaves greater freedom in the management of clean water: in particular, this avoids pumping clean water, and therefore wasting the latter, when it is not necessary, in particular when the cleaning is in the upper spin position.

In some embodiments, the clutch mechanism is configured to allow transmission of the rotation of the connection member to the activation member when the connection member is at the lower level and to prevent this transmission when the connection unit is located on the upper level.

In some embodiments, the connection member comprises a finger which engages a cavity of the activation member when the connection member is at the lower level and exits from the cavity of the activation member. when the connection member is located at the upper level.

In some embodiments, the pumping device is configured to pump clean water when the cleaning device exerts pressure on the rinsing device, preferably on an activating member of the pumping device. The rinsing device is thus very easy to use since it suffices to press against the rinsing device with the aid of the cleaning device to trigger a rinsing cycle.

In certain embodiments, the pumping device comprises a compression chamber, a piston movable in the compression chamber between a rest position and a compression position, and a valve connecting the compression chamber to an ejection duct. Thus, when the piston descends into the chamber of compression, under the effect of the pressure of the cleaning device, the clean water contained in the compression chamber is compressed until it reaches the opening pressure of the valve: the valve then opens and l Clean water is ejected under pressure towards the cleaning head via the ejection duct.

In some embodiments, the pumping device includes a spring exerting a return force on the piston. The pumping device thus returns to its initial state, ready for a new cycle, when the pressure exerted by the cleaning device is released.

In some embodiments, the activating member is formed by the piston. The cleaning device can then exert pressure directly or indirectly on the piston to trigger a rinsing cycle.

In some embodiments, the valve is provided within the piston.

In certain embodiments, the ejection duct passes axially through the piston. Such a potentially axisymmetric configuration facilitates the production of the device.

In some embodiments, the second reservoir and the compression chamber are fluidly connected by a filling passage at least when the piston is in its rest position. Thus, the compression chamber can be filled with clean water with a view to its ejection by the pumping device.

In some embodiments, the filling passage is calibrated so as to prohibit a reflux flow rate greater than 1 cl / s, preferably 0.5 cl / s, coming from the compression chamber. Such a reflux flow rate is sufficiently low, compared to the normal activation speed of the pumping device, to allow the pressure rise in the compression chamber during the descent of the piston and the ejection of clean water during opening of the valve.

In some embodiments, at least one seal is installed in the fill passage. Such a seal makes it possible to limit the reflux flow in the filling passage while allowing filling of the compression chamber.

In some embodiments, the fill passage includes at least one constricted section having a width of less than 0.1mm. Such a narrowed section makes it possible to limit the reflux flow rate in the filling passage while allowing filling of the compression chamber.

In some embodiments, the width of this narrowed section decreases as the piston advances to its compression position.

In some embodiments, the filling passage is interrupted when the piston is in its compression position. Thus, the reflux flow rate is zero, or practically zero, when the piston descends into the compression chamber, which facilitates the rise in pressure.

In some embodiments, at least one check valve is installed in the fill passage.

In some embodiments, the tray is connected to the activating member of the pumping device. Pressing the plate thus activates the pumping device.

In certain embodiments, the tray comprises a plurality of nozzles connected to the pumping device, for example to the ejection duct. It is thus possible to inject clean water directly into the cleaning head of the cleaning device, as close as possible to the latter.

In some embodiments, the tray includes at least one wiping member. They may in particular be protuberances projecting from the plate in order to exert a wiping pressure on the cleaning head of the cleaning device.

In some embodiments, the tray includes at least one squeeze roller. Such a roller, mounted to rotate about an axis, makes it possible to exert an axial wiping pressure on the cleaning head of the cleaning device while reducing the tangential friction force exerted on the latter.

In some embodiments, the tray includes at least one tuft of brush bristles and preferably rows of brush bristles. Such brushing bristles facilitate the removal of coarse dirt possibly present on the head of the cleaning device.

In some embodiments, at least one wiper member is mounted movably, and preferably on a spring, on the plate. This facilitates wringing while reducing the tangential frictional force exerted on the head of the cleaning device.

In some embodiments, the tray is removable. The term “removable” is understood to mean the fact that it is possible to separate the plate from the rest of the rinsing device without using special tools. This allows easy cleaning of the tray and access to the reservoirs as well as to the pumping device mechanism.

In some embodiments, the flushing device includes a platen rotational drive mechanism configured to drive the platen in rotation when the cleaner exerts pressure on the platen. Such a rotation of the plate makes it possible to improve the wiping of the cleaning device. The rotation of the plate could also be driven by means of a drive mechanism carried by the cleaning device.

In some embodiments, the drive mechanism includes a fixed cam surface and at least one follower element integral with the platen. The configuration could however be reversed.

In certain embodiments, the follower element is a pin integral with the piston of the pumping device. The drive mechanism and the pumping mechanism are therefore linked and can be activated simultaneously and in a single movement when the cleaning device exerts pressure against the plate.

In some embodiments, the drive mechanism is configured to drive the platen through a given angle between 30 and 180 °, preferably equal to 60 or 120 °, when the cleaning device exerts pressure on the platen. The inventor has in fact observed that such angles allow a good compromise between the efficiency of the wiping and ease of use, in particular in terms of the magnitude of the force to be exerted to activate the drive mechanism.

In some embodiments, the rinsing device includes a blocking device configured to prevent clean water from the second reservoir from reaching the cleaning device when the cleaning device exerts pressure on the activating member of the tank. pumping device. Such a locking device makes it possible, for example, to completely wring out the cleaning device at the end of use, without re-humidifying it, in order to obtain a sufficiently dry state allowing it to be stored. Such a locking device is also useful for wringing the cleaning device more intensely, without reinjecting an additional quantity of water, in order to clean a fragile surface such as a parquet for example.

In certain embodiments, the blocking device comprises an obstacle mounted on the plate movably between a blocking position in which it is interposed in front of the nozzles and a retracted position in which it moves away from the nozzles. In such a case, clean water is pumped, ejected by the nozzles, but intercepted by the blocking device and then recovered by the dirty water tank.

In certain embodiments, the rinsing device takes the form of a bucket, the second reservoir being mounted in the interior volume of the bucket and the bottom of the bucket forming the first reservoir.

In some embodiments, the rinsing device includes a second reservoir feed chimney extending from the second reservoir to the upper edge of the bucket. This facilitates the filling of the second reservoir.

The present disclosure also relates to an assembly comprising a cleaning device and a rinsing device according to any one of the preceding embodiments. This cleaning device may or may not be provided with an integrated wiping device, for example a centrifugal wiping device.

In some embodiments, the cleaning device includes an integrated wringing device, preferably of the centrifuge type.

The aforementioned characteristics and advantages, as well as others, will appear on reading the following detailed description of embodiments of the proposed device. This detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are diagrammatic and are intended above all to illustrate the principles of the invention.

• La FIG 1 est une vue en perspective d'un dispositif de rinçage selon un premier exemple.
• Les FIG 2A et 2B sont des vue en perspectives d'un dispositif de nettoyage associé au dispositif de rinçage de la FIG 1.
• La FIG 3 est une vue en coupe axiale du dispositif de rinçage de la FIG 1.
• La FIG 4 est une vue en perspective de la coupe de la FIG 3.
• La FIG 5 est une vue éclatée du dispositif de rinçage de la FIG 1.
• La FIG 6 est une vue agrandie du cadre VI de la FIG 3.
• La FIG 7 est une vue en coupe et en perspective des cylindres de came.
• La FIG 8 est une vue partiellement en coupe des cylindres de came et du piston.
• La FIG 9 est un schéma illustrant une développée des surfaces de came.
• Les FIG 10A et 10B sont des vues de dessus du dispositif de rinçage de la FIG 1 avec le dispositif de blocage dans deux positions différentes.
• La FIG 11 est une vue en perspective d'un dispositif de rinçage selon un deuxième exemple.
• La FIG 12 est une vue en coupe axiale, selon le plan XII, du dispositif de rinçage de la FIG 11.
• La FIG 13 est une vue en coupe axiale, selon le plan XIII, perpendiculaire au plan XII, du dispositif de rinçage de la FIG 11.
• La FIG 14 est une vue éclatée du dispositif de rinçage de la FIG 11.
• La FIG 15 est une vue en perspective de la pièce de transmission.
• La FIG 16 est une vue en coupe et en perspective des cylindres de came.
• La FIG 17 est une autre vue en coupe et en perspective, partiellement tronquée, des cylindres de came assemblés.
• La FIG 18 est une vue en coupe des cylindres de came et du cylindre suiveur.
• La FIG 19 est une vue en perspective de l'organe de connexion.
• La FIG 20 est un schéma illustrant une développée des surfaces de came.
• La FIG 21 est une vue en perspective du dispositif d'élévation dans sa position supérieure.

In these drawings, from one figure (FIG) to another, identical elements (or parts of elements) are identified by the same reference signs.

• The FIG 1 is a perspective view of a rinsing device according to a first example.
• The FIG 2A and 2B are perspective views of a cleaning device associated with the rinsing device of the FIG 1 .
• The FIG 3 is an axial sectional view of the device for rinsing the FIG 1 .
• The FIG 4 is a perspective view of the section of the FIG 3 .
• The FIG 5 is an exploded view of the rinsing device of the FIG 1 .
• The FIG 6 is an enlarged view of frame VI of the FIG 3 .
• The FIG 7 is a sectional and perspective view of the cam cylinders.
• The FIG 8 is a partially sectional view of the cam cylinders and piston.
• The FIG 9 is a diagram illustrating a development of the cam surfaces.
• The FIG 10A and 10B are top views of the rinsing device of the FIG 1 with the locking device in two different positions.
• The FIG 11 is a perspective view of a rinsing device according to a second example.
• The FIG 12 is an axial sectional view, along plane XII, of the device for rinsing the FIG 11 .
• The FIG 13 is an axial sectional view, along the plane XIII, perpendicular to the plane XII, of the device for rinsing the FIG 11 .
• The FIG 14 is an exploded view of the rinsing device of the FIG 11 .
• The FIG 15 is a perspective view of the transmission part.
• The FIG 16 is a sectional and perspective view of the cam cylinders.
• The FIG 17 is another sectional and perspective view, partially cut away, of the assembled cam cylinders.
• The FIG 18 is a sectional view of the cam cylinders and the follower cylinder.
• The FIG 19 is a perspective view of the connection member.
• The FIG 20 is a diagram illustrating a development of the cam surfaces.
• The FIG 21 is a perspective view of the lifting device in its upper position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE (S) OF IMPLEMENTATION

In order to make the invention more concrete, examples of rinsing devices are described in detail below, with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is recalled that the invention is not limited to these examples.

The FIG 1 shows, in perspective, a rinsing device 1 according to a first embodiment. This rinsing device is also visible at FIG 3 , 4 and 5 . It takes the general shape of a bucket 8, provided with a handle 2, and comprises a bottom wall 3 and an outer circular wall 4 delimiting an inner volume 5. In this inner volume 5, a central pillar 10 is mounted, a tank 40 and a plate 60.

The bottom wall 3 has at its center an annular protuberance forming an annular promontory 3a surrounding a central cavity 3b. A mounting base 9, comprising a threaded cylindrical part 9a and a horizontal flange 9b, is mounted in the central cavity 3b, the flange 9b being screwed onto the annular promontory 3a.

The lower part of the internal volume 5 of the bucket 8, between the bottom wall 3 and the lower wall 45 of the tank 40, constitutes a first tank 41 intended for the recovery of dirty water. The tank 40, comprising said lower wall 45, an outer circular wall 46 and a removable cover 47, for its part forms a second reservoir 42 intended for storing clean water, optionally mixed with a detergent or another cleaning liquid. The tank 40 is also equipped with a chimney 48 extending from the second tank 42 towards the upper end of the bucket 8, allowing easier filling of the second tank 42. In addition, the tank 40 comprises a central cavity 50, s 'sinking below the level of the lower wall 45 and delimited by a wall 50a projecting from the lower wall 45.

The plate 60, mounted on the central pillar 10, comprises at its center a connection pad 61, mounted on the plate 60 via a bearing 62, configured to cooperate with a connection cavity 91 provided under the head 92 of the brush 90 associated with the plate. rinsing device 1 and shown on the FIG 2A and 2B . This broom 90 also has a cleaning lining 93, of the micro-fiber mop type for example, removably attached to the lower surface of the head 2, using hook-and-loop strips or buttonholes for example. The broom 90 further comprises a handle 94 mounted on the head 92 via an articulation 95 of the Cardan type and a free wheel 96 allowing the head 92 to rotate only in one direction relative to the handle 94.

The plate 60 further comprises wringing rollers 63, provided in this example three in number, regularly distributed around the central axis A of the rinsing device 1, and extending radially from this axis A. Each wringing roller 63, of substantially frustoconical shape, is mounted so as to be able to rotate on a base 64; the axis of rotation 65 of the rollers 63 is slightly inclined so that the upper segment of each roll 63 is horizontal.

In addition, each base 64 is mounted on the plate 60 so as to benefit from a certain freedom of movement in the axial direction, springs 66 making it possible to return each base 64, and therefore each roller 63, to its position making the most. protrusion on the plate 60.

The tray 60 also includes tufts of brush bristles 66 facilitating cleaning of the broom 90. In the present example, the tray 60 comprises three rows of brush bristles 66, each provided along a squeeze roller 63.

The plate 60 further comprises water ejection nozzles 67 intended to eject clean water from the second reservoir 42 onto the mop 93 of the broom 90. More specifically, in the present example, the plate 60 comprises three conduits. radial 68 regularly distributed around the central axis A, and therefore extending radially in a star from this axis A on the surface of the plate 60. Each of the radial ducts 68 is pierced with a plurality of aligned orifices forming the nozzles water ejection 67. In addition, the inner end of the radial conduits 68 fluidly communicates with an axial conduit 69 of the plate 60, extending along the central axis A from the underside of the plate 60, by which arrives clean water from the second tank 42.

The plate 60 also comprises a locking device 70, in the present example taking the form of a three-branched propeller. 71. This locking device is rotatably mounted between two positions shown in FIG 10A and 10B . In the first position, called blocking and shown in FIG 10A , each branch 71 covers a radial duct 68 so that the ejection nozzles 67 are all masked by the blocking device 70. In the second position, called erasure and shown in FIG 10B , each branch 71 is in abutment against a cleat 72 provided on the plate 60 and uncovers the radial duct 68 so that no obstacle is interposed between the nozzles 67 and the brush 90. A cam device or simply a groove 73 is also provided on the surface of the plate 60, facing each branch 71, in order to guide the rotation of the blocking device 70 and ensure the stability of the blocking and erasing positions, respectively.

The plate 60 further comprises a connection sleeve 74 to the central pillar 10, cylindrical, extending axially from the underside of the plate 60, coaxially with the axial duct 69 over a length which is however less than the latter.

The central pillar 10 houses for its part a pumping device, making it possible to pump clean water from the second tank 42 in the direction of the ejection nozzles 37, and a device for driving in rotation, operating simultaneously with the pumping device. , making it possible to drive the plate 60 in rotation.

The central pillar 10 firstly comprises a mounting sleeve 11 comprising a threaded cylindrical portion 12, received and screwed into the mounting base 9. The mounting sleeve 11 also comprises a horizontal annular support portion 13 carrying three threaded blocks 13a. .

The vessel 40 is then mounted on the mounting sleeve 11, its central cavity 50 extending within the cylindrical portion 12 of the mounting sleeve 11.

An annular seal 51, the section of which takes the shape of an L, is then placed in a circular groove 52 provided in the lower wall 45 of the tank 40. A return spring 59, helical, is further installed in the cavity. central 50, vertically along the central axis A, its lower portion engaging around a protuberance 58 projecting vertically from the bottom of the central cavity 50, at the center of the latter.

The central pillar 10 then comprises an armature 14, a piston 15, a first cam cylinder 23 and a second cam cylinder 24 assembled with each other.

The piston 15, of generally cylindrical shape, although having material withdrawals to reduce its mass, comprises a lower cavity 16 open at its lower end and provided with a neck 17 at its upper end.

This neck 17 defines an orifice allowing the lower cavity 16 to communicate with an ejection duct 18 formed axially in the piston 15. A ball 19 inserted in the ejection duct 18 is pressed against the neck 17 with the aid of 'a spring 20 resting on a shoulder (not shown) of the ejection duct 18: the ball 19 and the spring 20 thus form a valve closing the neck 17 unless a sufficient threshold pressure is exerted against the ball 19 from the lower cavity 16 of the piston.

The piston 15 further comprises an upper cavity 21 open at its upper end and communicating with the ejection duct 18 at its lower end.

The piston 15 also comprises pins 22, here three in number, provided at regular intervals on the outer surface of piston 15.

The cam cylinders 23, 24, better visible on the FIG 7 and 8 , are generally cylindrical parts whose inner surface is provided with reliefs forming cam surfaces 25, 26. The cam cylinders 23, 24 are configured to fit together so as to enclose the pins 22 of the piston 15 between the surface of upper cam 25, carried by the first cam cylinder 23, and the lower cam surface 26, carried by the second cam cylinder 24.

Therefore, as will be explained later, the movement of the pins 22, and therefore the movement of the entire piston 15, is constrained by the cam surfaces 25 and 26.

Once the piston 15 and the two cam cylinders 25, 26 are assembled, the assembly is inserted into the cylindrical internal cavity of the frame 14 and the whole is positioned within the tank 40 so that the contour 14a of the frame 14 rests on the annular seal 51, that the second cam cylinder 24 rests on the wall 50a surrounding the central cavity 50 of the tank 40, that the lower end of the piston 15, provided with a skirt 15a, enters the central cavity 50, and the upper end of the return spring 59 is received in the lower cavity 16 of the piston 15 and rests against a shoulder 16b of the lower cavity 16.

The frame 14 is then screwed onto the threaded blocks 13a of the mounting sleeve 13, through coincident bores of the tank 40, which makes it possible to secure the assembly formed by the mounting sleeve 13, the tank 40, l 'frame 14, cam cylinders 23, 24 and piston 15.

The central pillar 10 further comprises a casing 27 covering the frame 14, the contour 28 of which also applies to the annular seal 51, and provided with an upper opening 29 through which the top of the frame 14 and the piston 15 protrude.

The casing 27 is then screwed onto the frame 14, which makes it possible to completely secure all the parts of the central pillar 10. Therefore, the whole of the central pillar 10 can easily be removed from the interior volume 5 of the bucket 8 by unscrewing the mounting sleeve 12 of the mounting base 9 secured to the bottom wall 3 of the bucket 8.

The plate 60 is then removably mounted on the central pillar 10. More precisely, the connection bush 74 of the plate 60 is received in the upper cavity 21 of the piston 15 until the lower end of the connection bush 74 is resting against the lower wall of the upper cavity 21 of the piston 15. In doing so, the axial duct 69 of the plate enters the ejection duct 18 of the piston, an O-ring 75 being provided between an external shoulder of the axial duct 69 and the lower wall of the upper cavity 21 of the piston 15.

In order to ensure the rotational locking of the plate 60 relative to the piston 15, the connection sleeve 74 of the plate 60 is provided with axial grooves cooperating with axial grooves 79 of the upper cavity 21 of the piston 15.

In addition, in order to ensure axial locking of the plate 60 relative to the piston 15, the plate 60 is provided with a pawl 76 comprising a finger configured to penetrate a locking hole of the piston: the pawl 76 is pushed radially in direction of the central axis A, therefore in the direction of the locking hole, using a spring; the pawl 76 further has a handle protruding from the top surface of the platen 60 allowing a user to push the finger of the pawl 76 out of the locking lumen for disassembly of the plate 60.

In addition, the plate 60 has guide tabs 77, here three in number and mounted under the bases 64, capable of sliding along the casing 27 of the central pillar 10 when the plate 60 goes up and down in the bucket 8 in order to stabilize the plate 60 relative to the central pillar 10 and strengthen its mechanical strength.

The operation of the rinsing device 1 will now be explained with the aid of the appended FIGS.

In order to operate the rinsing device 1, whether at the start of cleaning to initially moisten the mop 93 of the broom 90 or during cleaning to rinse the mop 93, evacuate the dirt trapped by the latter and re-humidify it beforehand. a new cleaning cycle, the locking device 70 is positioned in its exhaust position then the head 92 of the brush 90 is applied against the plate 60 until the connection pad 61 engages in the connection cavity 91 of broom 90.

In this position, the mop 93 of the broom is in contact with the wringing rollers 63 and the rows of brushing bristles 66. The user then exerts a downward force on the broom 90 so as to exert pressure against the plate 60. and thus to drive the piston 15 downwards against the return force of the return spring 59.

As can be seen on the FIG 9 , during this movement, each pin 22 of the piston 15 will follow the cam surfaces 25, 26 and therefore cause a rotation of the piston 15. More precisely, the first cam surface 25 comprises, in the clockwise direction, a succession of gorges 25a and peaks 25b connected by successively descending ramps 25c then ascending 25d. The second cam surface 26 for its part comprises, in the clockwise direction, a succession of descending ramps 26a, in sawtooth, separated by ditches 26b. In each unitary pattern of the cam surfaces 25, 26, i.e. disregarding the repetition of the pattern of the cam surfaces 25, 26, each descending ramp 26a extends from an angular position located in rear, in a clockwise direction, of the groove 25a to an angular position situated beyond the next peak 25b.

The first and second cam surfaces 25, 26 are thus periodic and have the same number of repetitions, which is moreover a multiple of the number of pins 22 carried by the piston 15. In the present example, the pattern of the cam surfaces 25 , 26 is repeated three times, so that 120 ° separate two grooves 25a and therefore two positions of stable equilibrium of the piston 15.

Thus, during the downward movement, each pin 22, initially housed in a groove 25a of the first cam surface 25, located at an angular coordinate a1, follows a first downward vertical movement M1 until it meets a downward ramp 26a of the second cam surface 26.

As the downward movement continues, the pin 22 continues its descent by sliding along the ramp 26a until it falls into the ditch 26b located at the angular coordinate a2, thus following a second movement M2 during which the piston 15 performs a first clockwise rotation movement of a2-a1 degrees.

The downward movement of the brush 90, of the plate 60 and of the piston 15 ends when the piston 15 arrives in its compression position in abutment at the bottom of the central cavity 50 of the tank 40: the pins 22 are then found at the bottom of the ditches 26b of the second cam surface 26.

The user can then release the pressure exerted on the plate: the return spring 59 therefore pushes the piston 15 upwards.

During this upward movement, each pin 22 follows a third upward vertical movement M3 until it meets the upward ramp 25d of the first cam surface 25.

As the upward movement continues, the pin 22 continues its ascent by sliding along the ramp 25d until it is lodged in the next groove 25a, located at an angular coordinate a3, thus following a fourth movement M4 during which the piston performs a second rotational movement of a3-a2 degrees clockwise.

Thus, at the end of a compression cycle, the piston 15, and therefore the plate 60, has rotated a3-a1 degrees clockwise. In a preferred example, to ensure regularity of the rotation, the ditches 26b are located halfway between the grooves 25a so that the piston 15 travels 60 ° during the descent and 60 ° during the ascent.

During a compression cycle, the plate 60 is therefore driven in rotation. Therefore, due to the friction differences at the interface between the plate 60 and the brush head 92, at the bearing 62 and at the freewheel 96, a relative rotational movement takes place between the plate 60 and the mop head 92: the wringing rollers 63 and the rows of brushing bristles 66 thus move along the mop 93, which allows it to be wrung out and cleaned.

During this wringing, the dirty water rejected by the mop 93 flows around the plate 60, falls to the bottom of the bucket 8 and is thus collected in the first tank 41 intended for the dirty water.

After several compression cycles, the wringing rollers 63 and the rows of brushing bristles 66 have traversed the entire surface of the mop 93, thus completing the wringing and cleaning of the latter.

At the same time, at each compression cycle, clean water from the second tank 42 is pumped and injected into the mop 93. Indeed, as can be seen more clearly on the FIG 6 , which is an enlargement of frame VI of the FIG 3 , a filling passage P connects the second reservoir 42 and the central cavity 50, forming a compression chamber, of the tank 40.

The passage section of this filling passage P is limited to two places. Firstly upstream, the seal 51 makes it possible to limit the flow of clean water entering the filling passage P at the interface between the frame 14 and the casing 27 on the one hand and the lower wall 45 of the tank 40 on the other hand. Downstream then, the passage section of the filling passage P is limited by the narrowness of the clearance J left between the wall 50a of the compression chamber 50 and the skirt 15a of the piston 15. In this example, when the piston 15 is in its high rest position, the clearance J measures approximately 0.1 mm.

However, although limited, this flow rate is sufficient for the compression chamber 50 to be able to fill completely during the interval between two uses of the rinsing device 1, that is to say while the user is using the device. broom 90 to clean the targeted surface. Thus, in the present example, the compression chamber 50 is able to fill completely in less than 30 seconds; for this, the filling rate via the filling passage P is approximately 1 cl / s.

On the other hand, this flow rate is sufficiently low with respect to the actuation time of the rinsing device 1 to neglect, or at least minimize, the reflux flow rate from the compression chamber 50 to the second reservoir 42 during the actuation of the rinsing device 1, that is to say during the descent of the piston 15 into the compression chamber 50.

In particular, the reflux rate may be less than the filling rate. In the present example, the wall 50a has a bevelled profile which causes the clearance J to decrease during the descent of the piston 15 into the compression chamber 50. Thus, the reflux flow rate via the filling passage P is less than 0, 5 cl / s. In practice, it is estimated that the quantity of water capable of flowing back through the filling passage P during a compression cycle is limited to 1 or 2 mL, which is small enough to allow the pressure to rise in the chamber. compression 50 and the ejection of water through the ejection duct 18.

Therefore, upon activation of the rinsing device 1, the compression chamber 50 is initially filled with clean water. The rapid descent of the piston 15 increases the water pressure in the compression chamber 50 while the neck 17 of the piston 15 is blocked by the ball 19 and the backflow of water via the filling passage P, hampered, is negligible considering the speed of compression. Once the threshold pressure has been reached, the ball 19 is pushed against its spring 20 and clean water is expelled via the ejection duct 18, the axial duct 69, the radial ducts 68 and the nozzles 67 until the end. mop 93 of broom 90.

All the water is not expelled at once, it is possible to repeat the operation to eject a quantity of clean water several times in succession in the direction of the mop 93. Thanks to the rotating drive of the plate 60 occurring simultaneously with the ejection of water, and thanks to the relative movement then appearing between the plate 60 and the mop head 92, it is thus possible to rinse a large area, if not the entire area , mop 93.

At the end of several compression cycles, for example five consecutive cycles, at a frequency of approximately one cycle per second, the water level in the compression chamber 50 becomes insufficient to carry out a new ejection of water, this which is a signal for the user that the rinsing is finished and that he can use the broom 90 again to clean the target surface. During this time, the compression chamber 50 can again fill up.

At the end of use of the broom 90, when the target surface is completely cleaned and you want to store the broom 90 in a cupboard for example, it is possible to use the rinsing device one last time by moving this time - ci the locking device 70 in its locking position. Thus, each compression cycle will make it possible to rotate the plate 60, and therefore to clean and wring the mop 93 of the broom 90, without however re-humidifying the latter, the water ejected by the nozzles 67 being intercepted by the branches. 71 of the blocking device 70 and thus directly diverted to the first tank 41 dedicated to dirty water.

The FIG 11 shows, in perspective, a rinsing device 101 according to a second exemplary embodiment. This rinsing device 101 is also visible at FIG 12 , 13 and 14 . It takes the general form of a bucket 108, provided with a handle 102, and comprises a bottom wall 103 and an outer circular wall 104 delimiting an inner volume 105. A tank 140 is mounted in this inner volume 105. This device rinsing 101 is provided to cooperate with a brush 90 of the same type as that of the first example shown in the FIG 2A and 2B except that the brush 90 is provided with a device for driving the brush head 92 in rotation.

The bottom wall 103 has at its center a cylindrical protuberance forming a promontory 103a provided at its center with a protuberance 103b.

The tank 140 is suspended by three arms 151 from a suspension ring 152 mounted astride the upper edge of the outer circular wall 104 of the bucket 108. In this suspended state, the tank 140 also rests on the top of the promontory 103a, the protuberance 103b engaging in a cavity 153 provided at the center of the lower wall 145 of the tank 140.

The lower part of the internal volume 105 of the bucket 108, between the bottom wall 103 and the lower wall 145 of the tank 140, constitutes a first reservoir 141 intended for the recovery of dirty water. The tank 140, comprising said lower wall 145, an outer circular wall 146 and a removable cover 147, for its part forms a second reservoir 142 intended for storing clean water, optionally mixed with a detergent or another cleaning liquid.

A pumping device 110, making it possible to pump clean water coming from the second tank 142 in the direction of the plate 160 formed by the cover 147 of the second tank 142, as well as a lifting device 120, making it possible to adjust the position of the brush 90 relative to the plate 160, are mounted within the tank 140 along the central axis A of the rinsing device 101.

The tank 140 comprises at its center a column 149 extending along the central axis A over approximately half the height of the tank 140, the previously mentioned cavity 153 corresponding moreover to the interior space of this column. 149.

A centering sleeve 111, split, is threaded with play around the column 149 and rests on a shoulder of the lower wall 145 of the tank 140.

A pumping cylinder 112 is placed in the center of the tank 140, around the column 149. It comprises an outer wall 113, substantially cylindrical, extending substantially over the entire height of the tank 140, and an inner wall 114. , substantially cylindrical, extending along column 149 only. An Archimedean screw 115, double in the present example, is formed between the outer wall 113 and the inner wall 114 of the pumping cylinder 112. The pumping cylinder 112 also includes an annular skirt 116 extending substantially radially from it. upper end of the outer wall 113.

The top of the column 149 is provided with a bowl on which is placed a ball 117. A cap piece 118, in the form of a top hat, is then attached over the ball 117 and the top of the column 149, the top of the ball 117 being received in a bowl provided in the interior space of the cap part 118: the cap part 118 is thus mounted in rotation with respect to the column 149.

A transmission part 121 is then put in place within the tank 140. This part is also visible on the FIG 15 , 16 , 17 and 18 . It comprises a lower cylinder 122 connected to an upper cylinder 123, of larger diameter and forming a first cam cylinder, and further comprises a central column 124 of smaller diameter than the lower cylinder 122. The lower cylinder 122 is received with clearance between the centering sleeve 111 and the internal wall 114 of the pumping cylinder 112 while the internal cavity 124a formed by the column central 124 is engaged around the cap piece 118 until an axial stop 124b of the internal cavity 124a rests on the top of the cap piece 118.

The lower cylinder 122 has latching fingers 122a provided to engage irreversibly in notches 114a of the inner wall 114 of the pumping cylinder 112 so as to make the pumping cylinder 112 integral with the transmission part 121.

The lower cylinder 122 also has internal ribs 122b making it possible to axially block the transmission part 121 by screwing on a thread 149a of the column 149 of the tank 140.

The central column 124 of the transmission part 121 further comprises at its upper end an upper cavity 124c, open upwards, within which protrude two diametrically opposed radial lugs 124d.

A spring 125 is then placed around the central column 124 of the transmission part 121, the lower end of the spring 125 resting on a shoulder of the central column 124.

A cup 126, carrying a first bearing 127, is then positioned at the top of the spring 125, a shoulder of the cup 126 resting on the upper end of the spring 125.

A follower cylinder 128, also visible on the FIG 18 , is then positioned within the transmission part 121. The follower cylinder comprises an outer cylinder 129 extending over the entire height of the upper cylinder of the transmission part 121 and an inner cylinder 130, of diameter substantially equal to that of the column 124 of the transmission part 121, extending over about one third of the length of the outer cylinder 129, the outer cylinder 129 and the inner cylinder 130 being connected by a radial ring 131. The inner cylinder 130 engages inside the spring 125 while the lower surface of the radial ring 131 is connected to the first bearing 127.

The follower cylinder 128 also comprises, at the lower end of its outer cylinder 129, two pins 137 diametrically opposites extending radially outward. As is best seen on the FIG 18 , the rear, upper and lower edges of each pin 137 are chamfered.

A second cam cylinder 132, substantially cylindrical, also visible on the FIG 16 , 17 and 18 , is engaged between the first cam cylinder 123, formed by the outer cylinder of the transmission part 121, and the follower cylinder 128, the second cam cylinder 132 being fixed to the first cam cylinder 123.

The cam cylinders 123, 132 are portions of generally cylindrical parts whose interior surface is provided with reliefs forming cam surfaces 135, 136. The cam cylinders 123, 132 are configured to fit together so as to enclose the pins. 137 of the follower cylinder 128 between the lower cam surface 135, carried by the first cam cylinder 123, and the upper cam surface 136, carried by the second cam cylinder 132.

Therefore, as will be explained later, the movement of the pins 137, and therefore the movement of the entire follower cylinder 128, is constrained by the cam surfaces 135 and 136.

Finally, a connection pad 161, also visible on the FIG 19 , is mounted on the follower cylinder 132 by means of a second bearing 162. Analogously to the first example, this connection pad 161 is configured to cooperate with a connection cavity 91 provided under the head 92 of the associated brush 90 to the rinsing device 101. The lower end of the connection pad 161 extends towards the upper cavity 124c of the column 124 of the transmission part 161 and comprises a clutch finger 163 provided with two diametrically opposed radial lugs 163a.

The operation of the rinsing device 101 will now be explained with the aid of the appended FIGS.

In order to operate the rinsing device 101, whether at the start of cleaning to initially moisten the mop 93 of the broom 90 or during cleaning to rinse the mop 93, evacuate the dirt trapped by the latter and re-humidify it before a new cleaning cycle, the head 92 of the brush 90 is applied against the connection pad 161 so as to engage the latter in the connection cavity 91 of the brush 90.

In this position, the mop 93 of the broom is in contact with the plate 160 formed by the cover 147 of the tank 140. The user then actuates the device for driving the broom 90 in rotation by performing back-and-forth movements. comes vertical with the brush 90 or with a movable member of the brush, such as a sleeve, depending on the model of the rotary drive device. The head 92 of the brush 90 then begins to rotate, causing with it the rotation of the connection pad 161.

In addition, in this position, the clutch finger 163 of the connection pad 161 enters the upper cavity 124c of the column 124 of the transmission part 121 so that the pins 163a of the clutch finger 163 push the pins 124d of the column 124, thus causing the transmission part 121 in rotation.

Therefore, since the pumping cylinder 112 is integral with the transmission part 121, the Archimedean screw 115 of the pumping cylinder 112 is rotated, which causes the rise of clean water in the pumping cylinder 112 from the clean water tank 142, the clean water then being released along the skirt 116 before flowing along the plate 160 formed by the cover 147 of the tank 140. The mop 93 of the broom 90 rotating in contact of the tray 160 can then be rinsed with this clean water and be re-humidified. In addition, the surface of the tray 160 is slightly inclined outwardly so as to allow the discharge of excess clean water to the dirty water tank 141.

Furthermore, with each reciprocating movement, the brush 90 exerts a downward force against the connection pad 161, and therefore against the follower cylinder 128, against the return force of the spring 125.

As can be seen on the FIG 20 , during this movement, each pin 137 of the follower cylinder 128 will follow the cam surfaces 135, 136.

More precisely, the first cam surface 135 comprises, in the clockwise direction, a succession of grooves 135a and of sawtooth peaks 135b connected by descending ramps 135c. The second cam surface 136 for its part comprises, in the clockwise direction, a succession of grooves 136a and sawtooth peaks 136b connected by ascending ramps 136c. Systematically, a groove 135a of the first cam surface 135 is located opposite an ascending ramp 136c of the second cam surface 136 and a groove 136a of the second. cam surface 136 is located opposite a descending ramp 135c from the first cam surface 135.

The first and second cam surfaces 135, 136 are periodic and have the same number of repetitions, which is otherwise a multiple of the number of pins 137 carried by the follower cylinder 128. In the present example, the pattern of the cam surfaces 135 , 136 repeats twice.

Thanks to the spring 125, all the grooves 136a of the second cam surface 136 define stable positions for the pins 137 of the follower cylinder 128.

On the FIG 20 , for purposes of explanation, a pawn 137 has been represented in each of the stable positions available: it should however be understood that these stable positions are in reality occupied successively by the pawns 137. A unitary pattern thus comprises six lower stable positions 138a located at a lower level, an upper stable position 138b located at an upper level, and two intermediate stable positions 138c and 138d located at two different levels, increasing between the lower level and the upper level. A vertical distance of about 4 cm separates the lower level from the upper level.

The force to be exerted against the spring 125 to pass from one stable position 138a-138d to the next is then a function of the vertical distance separating this stable position from the groove 135a of the first cam surface 135 located immediately after in clockwise. In this case, with the exception of the case of the upper stable position 138b, a vertical displacement of 1 cm maximum is sufficient to reach the following groove 135a: therefore, a moderate force exerted downwards is sufficient to allow the passage to the next stable position. In practice, the back-and-forth movement necessary for activating the device for driving the rotation of the brush 90 is then sufficient to progress from a stable position to a stable position until reaching the upper stable position 138b.

Thus, the broom 90 remains in the lower position, in contact with the plate 160, during five back-and-forth movements, which is considered sufficient to rinse the mop 63, then the broom 90 rises. gradually over three back-and-forth movements before reaching its upper position.

Indeed, as shown in the FIG 21 , when the pins 137 are in their upper stable position 138b, the follower cylinder 128, and therefore the connection pad 161, are caused to rise to protrude about 4 cm on the level of the plate 160.

In such a position, the mop 93 of the broom 90 is no longer in contact with the plate 160 and therefore with the water present on the surface of the latter. The brush 90 can then be wrung out by centrifugation while continuing to actuate the drive device in rotation.

This time, the only back and forth movements necessary for the spinning no longer have sufficient amplitude to allow, without voluntary action by the user, the passage to the next stable position which is a stable position. lower 138a located approximately 4 cm lower: the pawns 137 then go back and forth in the vertical channel 139 located in the axis of the upper stable position 138b. Therefore, it is possible to operate the rotary drive device as long as necessary in order to obtain the desired level of spinning while remaining in the upper position.

During this wringing, the dirty water rejected by the mop 93 flows around the plate 160, falls to the bottom of the bucket 108 and is thus collected in the first tank 141 intended for the dirty water.

In addition, when the connection pad 161 is located in the upper position, its clutch finger 163 disengages from the upper cavity 124c of the column 124 of the transmission part 121. Therefore, the transmission part 121 and the screw of Archimedes 115 are no longer driven, which stops the pumping device 110 and therefore the rise of clean water.

Once the spinning is finished, it is possible either to exert on the broom 90 a downward force sufficient to reach the first lower stable position 138a and to start a rinsing cycle again, or to detach the broom 90 in order to clean the floor. To restart a rinsing and spinning cycle, it is then sufficient to attach the brush 90 again to the connection pad 161, the force required for this connection sufficient to reach the first lower stable position 138a.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments, it is evident that modifications and changes can be made to these examples without departing from the general scope of the invention as defined by the claims. In particular, individual characteristics of the different illustrated / mentioned embodiments can be combined in additional embodiments. Therefore, the description and the drawings should be taken in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

It is also obvious that all the characteristics described with reference to a method can be transposed, alone or in combination, to a device, and conversely, all the characteristics described with reference to a device can be transposed, alone or in combination, to a method.

Claims (5)

1. A rinsing device for a cleaning device, comprising:

   a first tank (41) provided to collect dirty water coming from the cleaning device (90),

   a second tank (42) provided to store clean water, and

   a rotary-type mechanical pumping device (15, 50) configured to pump clean water coming from the second tank (42) in order to humidify the cleaning device (90),

   characterized in that the pumping device (110) is configured to pump clean water when a member for activating (124) the pumping device (110) is driven in rotation by the cleaning device (90).
2. The rinsing device according to claim 1, comprising a tray (160) provided to receive the cleaning device (90), and
   wherein the pumping device (110) is configured to run clean water along the tray (160).
3. The rinsing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tray (60) comprises a plurality of nozzles (67) connected to the pumping device.
4. An assembly comprising a cleaning device (90) and a rinsing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.
5. The assembly according to claim 4, wherein the cleaning device (90) comprises an integrated wringing device, preferably of the centrifugal type.

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