EP4021656B1 - Cleaning basket for cleaning a breathing apparatus - Google Patents

Description

Technical area

The invention relates to a cleaning basket for cleaning and optionally also disinfecting breathing apparatus or components of breathing apparatus. The invention further relates to a cleaning system and a method for cleaning breathing apparatus. Such devices and methods can be used in general to clean breathing apparatus or components thereof, for example breathing apparatus for rescue workers such as fire departments, technical aid organizations or paramedics, breathing apparatus for divers or generally people in hostile or critical work environments, as well as for armed forces and security forces such as police officers. The proposed devices and methods can also be used for breathing devices in the medical field, for example breathing masks for oxygen supply and operations. Other areas of application are also conceivable.

Technical background

Breathing devices such as respiratory masks or regulators are usually part of the personal protective equipment of rescue workers, armed forces or security forces, for example. A large number of breathing devices for different purposes are known from the prior art. For example, rescue workers such as fire departments use respiratory masks with filters to remove harmful components from the sucked-in breathing air. In many cases, however, as an alternative or in addition to a filter, a so-called regulator is used, through which the user can be ventilated with a breathing gas, for example compressed air. Regulators, which are often also referred to as breathing regulators, generally allow a user to breathe from a compressed gas cylinder or other compressed gas connection and in this way, for example, not to feel underwater or in another in a breathable or toxic atmosphere. For this purpose, the compressed gas, for example compressed air, from the compressed gas connection is adjusted by the regulator to a pressure prevailing in the user's working environment.

The respiratory devices or their components must generally be cleaned, hygienised, dried, checked and, if necessary, repaired and packaged after each use. Cleaning is intended to remove all contamination resulting from use or storage so that the breathing apparatus can be macroscopically clean and hygienically provided, for example for the next steps in reprocessing. The same requirements generally also apply to components of breathing apparatus, such as attachments and accessories for breathing masks, such as filters or regulators.

In many cases, respiratory devices, such as respiratory masks and their accessories, are either cleaned by hand or washed in modified laundry washing machines using protective bags and/or using adapters. For example, is off EP 0 935 687 B1 generally known as a washing machine which has a tub with a drum. A shell of the drum has a curvature structure directed towards the inside of the drum, with holes being arranged in its corner points on edge contours of the curvature directed towards the outside of the drum. With such washing machines, particularly gentle cleaning of equipment for rescue workers is possible.

Out of EP 1 088 928 A1 a holding system for respiratory masks in a laundry treatment machine is known. The holding system has a support bracket which is arranged to rotate in a drum of the laundry treatment machine and to which the respiratory masks can be connected.

Out of DE 200 03 743 U1 and from DE 298 22 172 U1 Devices for treating protective suits are known. Clothes hangers are used, which include flexible air outlet nozzles. The clothes hangers are each attached to a swivel device. Cleaning breathing apparatus is generally not possible or only possible with difficulty using the devices shown.

1. a) mindestens ein Pflegeadapter wird mit mindestens einer Öffnung des Schutzanzugs lösbar und dichtend verbunden,
2. b) über den mindestens einen Pflegeadapter wird ein Reinigungs- und Desinfektionsfluid in das Innere des Schutzanzugs geleitet und das in das Innere des Schutzanzugs geleitete Reinigungs- und Desinfektionsfluid aus dem Schutzanzug abgeführt,
3. c) über den mindestens einen Pflegeadapter wird ein Trocknungsgas zur Trocknung des Schutzanzugs in das Innere des Schutzanzugs geleitet und das in das Innere des Schutzanzugs geleitete Trocknungsgas aus dem Schutzanzug abgeführt,
4. d) der mindestens eine Pflegeadapter wird von der mindestens einen Öffnung des Schutzanzugs getrennt.

Also DE 10 2015 108 857 A1 describes a method for caring for at least one protective suit, in particular a chemical protective suit, comprising the steps:

1. a) at least one care adapter is releasably and sealingly connected to at least one opening of the protective suit,
2. b) a cleaning and disinfection fluid is passed into the interior of the protective suit via the at least one care adapter and the cleaning and disinfection fluid passed into the interior of the protective suit is removed from the protective suit,
3. c) a drying gas for drying the protective suit is passed into the interior of the protective suit via the at least one care adapter and the drying gas passed into the interior of the protective suit is removed from the protective suit,
4. d) the at least one care adapter is separated from the at least one opening of the protective suit.

Out of DE 10 2005 033 618 B3 a device for cleaning respiratory masks is known. The device comprises a lockable housing and at least one receptacle for at least one respiratory mask arranged in a carrier. Furthermore, a nozzle arrangement and a brush arrangement are provided, whereby a movement of the respiratory masks causes the respiratory masks to be brushed. However, using the disclosed device, individual assignment and cleaning of mask accessories is not possible. Furthermore, the cleaning of gas-carrying elements, such as regulators, is not possible with the disclosed device. Also from DE 200 03 744 U1 a device for cleaning, disinfecting and drying respiratory masks is known, which has a support frame with an assigned nozzle system and individual treatment stations. This device is also fundamentally not suitable for cleaning gas-carrying elements and accessories.

Out of DE 10 2007 009 936 A1 a cleaning device for compressed air breathing apparatus is known. This has a receiving space limited by a protective grille and rotating nozzle holders. The nozzle holders are located outside the protective grille. However, the disadvantage of the device shown is that cleaning liquid can penetrate into gas-conducting areas.

However, the cleaning of sensitive components of breathing devices, such as regulators, is usually done manually. If necessary, manual cleaning can be supported by placing it in ultrasonic cleaning devices. Out of DE 10 2007 012 768 B4 However, a method and a device for cleaning regulators are known. The objects to be cleaned are placed on holders of a rotating element and immersed several times in a liquid bath with cleaning liquid, disinfectant liquid and rinsing liquid. Pulmonary valves are first supplied with compressed air to create a seal between the valve and the hose connection and then immersed in the liquid bath. Disadvantageous However, the disadvantage of such immersion processes is that complex holders with appropriate actuators are required in order to ensure that cleaning fluid is removed from the various cavities after cleaning through appropriate movements.

DE 100 20 835 A1 describes a device for treating respiratory masks. A receptacle for equipping respiratory masks is provided, in which the respirators are coupled to the receptacle using the breathing apparatus connection. It is further described that a collection device for collecting treatment agents is provided in a cabin of the device, as well as a pump for supplying the treatment agents.

US 3,881,503 A discloses an apparatus for washing and decontaminating anesthesia equipment. A nozzle system is provided through which jets of water can be sprayed onto the items to be cleaned under high pressure.

In DE 11 74 169 B A device for cleaning respiratory masks is described. A rotatably mounted tubular frame is provided in a housing, in which the masks to be cleaned are clamped onto holders. Using the bogie, the respiratory masks are moved with a rotating movement through a bath of cleaning liquid in a tub.

WO 2011/144518 A2 describes a cleaning device for cleaning breathing apparatus. The cleaning device comprises at least one cleaning chamber for accommodating at least one breathing device and at least one fluid device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the breathing device. The cleaning device further has at least one pressurization device with at least one pressure connection. The pressure connection can be connected to at least one gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus. The pressurization device is set up to pressurize the gas-carrying element with compressed gas.

DE 10 2012 220 646 B3 describes a range for cleaning breathing apparatus, comprising at least two holders. A first holder is provided for cleaning breathing masks, with a pressurization device, as well as a second holder for cleaning support frames.

US 2014/0365360 A1 describes a helmet cleaning device. This includes a rectangular housing with a cleaning chamber with a transparent hinged lid and a helmet holder. The helmet mount includes openings that are connected to a vacuum cleaning device. During operation, some of the openings can be used for steam cleaning and other openings can be used to vacuum dirt and other materials.

Despite the advantages that have been and are being achieved with the devices and methods described above, numerous technical challenges remain. A technical challenge with respiratory masks, also known as breathing masks, is that they often have a complex design and have cavities in which cleaning fluid can accumulate. Cleaning fluid often collects during and at the end of a cleaning program, particularly in the area of the seals, which are typically constructed in a labyrinth-like manner. These liquid residues typically have to be emptied by hand after the respiratory masks have been removed from the cleaning devices, which can, however, affect the hygiene of the cleaned respiratory masks. In addition, manual emptying involves additional effort when operating the cleaning device. If, on the other hand, the respiratory masks are not sufficiently emptied, the drying time increases accordingly during subsequent drying, either within the cleaning device itself or, for example, in a separate drying cabinet. Another challenge in connection with liquid residues in the respiratory masks is that these liquid residues can end up on the floor of the work area when the respiratory masks are removed from the cleaning device. This can create a risk of accidents in the workplace.

Task of the invention

It would therefore be desirable to provide a cleaning basket, a cleaning system and a method for cleaning and, optionally, also for disinfecting breathing apparatus, which at least largely avoid the disadvantages of known devices and methods of the type mentioned. In particular, cleaning of respiratory masks should be made possible, which includes sufficient hygiene and accelerated drying of the respiratory masks compared to conventional devices and methods, while at the same time reducing the risk of accidents due to leaking cleaning fluid, in particular leaking cleaning liquid.

General description of the invention

This task is addressed by a cleaning basket, a cleaning system and a method for cleaning and optionally also disinfecting breathing apparatus, with the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous developments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, are presented in the dependent claims.

Hereinafter, the terms "have", "have", "comprise" or "include" or any grammatical variations thereof are used in a non-exclusive manner used. Accordingly, these terms can refer both to situations in which, in addition to the features introduced by these terms, no further features are present, or to situations in which one or more further features are present. For example, the expression "A has B", "A includes B", "A includes B" or "A includes B" can refer to the situation in which, apart from B, no other element is present in A (i.e. to a situation in which A consists exclusively of B), as well as to the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more other elements are present in A, for example element C, elements C and D or even other elements .

Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more" as well as grammatical variations of these terms, if they are used in connection with one or more elements or features and are intended to express that the element or feature is provided single or multiple times can usually only be used once, for example when the feature or element is introduced for the first time. If the feature or element is subsequently mentioned again, the corresponding term “at least one” or “one or more” is generally no longer used, without limiting the possibility that the feature or element can be provided once or multiple times.

Furthermore, the terms “preferably”, “in particular”, “for example” or similar terms are used below in connection with optional features, without alternative embodiments being restricted thereby. Thus, features introduced by these terms are optional features and these features are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the claims and in particular the independent claims. Thus, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be carried out using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by "in an embodiment of the invention" or by "in an embodiment of the invention" are understood to be optional features, without this being intended to limit alternative embodiments or the scope of protection of the independent claims. Furthermore, these introductory expressions should remain unaffected by all possibilities of combining the features introduced here with other features, be they optional or non-optional features.

In a first aspect of the present invention, a cleaning basket for cleaning breathing apparatus is proposed.

The term "cleaning basket" as used herein, also referred to as "rinsing basket", is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a portable receiving device in which items to be cleaned can be received, introduced into a cleaning device, for example a dishwasher, and then removed from the cleaning device again in a cleaned state. Alternatively, the cleaning basket can also be permanently installed in a cleaning device, for example. For example, the cleaning basket can be fastened in a rail system of the cleaning device and inserted into a cleaning chamber of the cleaning device via this and pulled out of the cleaning chamber again after cleaning. Furthermore, cleaning baskets can also be used to temporarily store items to be cleaned. The cleaning basket can in particular have a large number of openings so that liquid can drip downwards. The cleaning basket can in particular have a substantially cuboid shape, with a basket bottom, which can have, for example, a square or generally rectangular floor plan, and which has a support surface for placing the cleaning basket on a flat work surface. Optionally, one or more basket walls can extend upwards from the basket base, for example with a raised edge and further optionally other elements such as handles.

The term "breathing apparatus" as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and current meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a device which is suitably designed to protect the respiratory tract of a user from harmful influences. For example, the breathing device can be a device which is set up to completely or partially filter ambient air and/or to provide breathing gas to at least one user. These breathing devices can be complete, ready-to-use breathing devices, or they can also be components thereof, so that there is no conceptual distinction made below between breathing devices and their components.

The breathing apparatus can in particular include at least one breathing mask, also referred to as a breathing mask. The term "respirator" as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a device which is part of a breathing apparatus and which is designed to completely or partially cover the face of a user, in particular an area of the mouth and/or nose area. The covering can serve in particular to protect the user's respiratory tract from pollutants and/or to introduce respiratory gases into the respiratory tract and/or to expel respiratory gases from the respiratory tract. The respiratory mask can also cover other parts of the user's face and/or head, for example the eyes. Accordingly, the respiratory mask can in particular also have at least one transparent viewing window. The respirator mask can also have at least one seal for sealing an interior space of the respirator mask from an external space, the interior space being delimited, for example during operation of the respirator mask, by the respirator mask itself, the user's head and the seal of the respirator mask. In particular, the respiratory mask can be designed to be convex, forming at least one cavity that is partially closed off by the respiratory mask, the edges of which are formed, for example, by the at least one seal. In particular, the respiratory mask can have a preferably completely or partially flexible wall which covers the mouth and nose and optionally other areas of the face such as the eyes. The seal can in particular have at least one sealing lip, which seals the respiratory mask against the face, so that the interior space is formed as a sealed area between the face and the respiratory mask. Furthermore, as will be explained in more detail below, the respiratory mask can have at least one fixation for attachment to the user's head, for example at least one strap, at least one fixation band or at least one attachment which consists of several bands and is often referred to as a strap or spider. The breathing mask can, for example, have at least one opening and can, for example, be set up to enable a supply of air or breathing gas. For example, the breathing mask can have at least one thread for connecting a breathing gas supply. Furthermore, the respiratory mask can have, for example, at least one exhalation valve. The respiratory mask can, for example, be made entirely or partially from a flexible material, in particular from at least one elastomeric material, for example rubber and/or silicone.

In addition, the breathing apparatus can include other components. In particular, the breathing apparatus can further have at least one of the following elements: hoses, valves, filters, compressed gas containers, regulators or combinations of the elements mentioned and/or other elements.

The term "cleaning" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a process in which the items to be cleaned are freed from adhering macroscopic or microscopic contaminants and/or in which such contaminants are at least partially eliminated. In addition, a disinfectant effect can optionally be exerted.

The proposed cleaning basket for cleaning breathing apparatus includes at least one basket frame. Furthermore, the cleaning basket comprises at least one mask holder for holding at least one respiratory mask in the cleaning basket. Furthermore, the cleaning basket comprises at least one suction element, which has at least one suction opening and is designed to extend into the respiratory mask held by the mask holder. The suction element is set up to be subjected to negative pressure and to suck cleaning fluid from at least one interior of the respiratory mask into the suction opening. This application of negative pressure can take place in particular during or after the breathing apparatus is exposed to cleaning fluid.

The term "basket rack" as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a mechanical basic structure of the cleaning basket, which can in particular have a basket bottom, as well as additionally one or more basket walls, which can extend in particular from the basket bottom. The basket frame can in particular be made entirely or partially from at least one material selected from the group consisting of plastic and metal. The basket frame can, for example, be designed entirely or partially as a wire frame, for example as a wire mesh. Alternatively or additionally, the basket frame can also be designed entirely or partially as a plastic frame, for example as a plastic frame with several openings, for example as a plastic grid. Overall, the basket frame can, for example, have one or more openings so that cleaning fluid can flow out of an interior of the basket frame. The basket frame can, for example, have a cuboid basic structure in whole or in part, for example with a rectangular support surface.

The term "mask holder" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a device which is set up to hold at least one respiratory mask, in particular during a cleaning process. The mask holder can in particular have at least one projection which extends from the cleaning basket and in particular from a bottom of the cleaning basket and/or a wall of the cleaning basket, for example into an interior of the cleaning basket and/or upwards from the cleaning basket, and which is set up to hold and/or fix the at least one respiratory mask, in particular at a distance from a bottom of the cleaning basket. The mask holder can, for example, be made entirely or partially from at least one plastic and/or entirely or partially from at least one metallic material. The mask holder can also be completely or partially connected to the basket frame or can also be designed in one piece with the basket frame.

The term "suction element" as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a device or an element which is set up to remove at least one fluid from a predetermined area by the process of suction, in particular by applying a negative pressure. In particular, the suction element can have at least one element selected from the group consisting of a tube, a hose and a channel, wherein the element has at least one opening through which fluid can pass into the element and wherein the element itself can be subjected to a negative pressure . For example, the element can have at least one connection to at least one negative pressure source or vacuum source or to the connection of at least one negative pressure source or vacuum source, the connection being fluidly connected to the at least one opening, which can also be referred to as a suction opening.

Accordingly, the term "suction port" as used herein is a broad term that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to an opening in a wall of the suction element, through which fluid can enter an interior, for example into a lumen of the suction element that can be subjected to a negative pressure. The opening can basically have any cross section, for example a round, oval or polygonal cross section. For example, a single opening or a plurality of openings can be provided in the wall of the suction element. For example, the at least one suction opening can comprise at least one through opening in at least one wall of a tube, a hose or a channel of the suction element.

The suction element can be completely or partially connected to the mask holder and/or integrated into the mask holder. Accordingly, the suction element can, for example, also be designed as a component of the mask holder and/or can be firmly or detachably connected to the mask holder. Alternatively or additionally, however, the suction element can also be completely or partially firmly or detachably connected to other components of the cleaning basket or can be completely or partially integrated into other components of the cleaning basket. The suction element can also be connected to the basket frame. A fixed or detachable connection is conceivable. For example, the suction element can be set up to be detachably connected to one or more other components of the cleaning basket, for example the basket frame or the mask holder, and to be removed, for example, for cleaning purposes.

As stated above, the suction element is designed to extend into the respirator mask held by the mask holder. Accordingly, the suction element can in particular have an elongated element, for example an element whose longitudinal extent exceeds its lateral extent by at least a factor of 2, for example by at least a factor of 3. In particular, the suction element can accordingly be designed, for example, as a hose or tube or as a loop of a hose or tube in order to extend into at least one interior of the respiratory mask. Spatially, the suction element can in particular be positioned in such a way that it protrudes from the mask holder or protrudes from the mask holder, so that when the respiratory mask is received on the mask holder, the suction element is in an interior space, which is formed, for example, by a wall of the respiratory mask. which assigns to the mask holder, extends into it. The suction element can be designed to be rigid or preferably flexible, as will be explained in more detail below, so that the suction element can, for example, be flexibly introduced into the interior and, for example, can be specifically introduced into a space on a seal of the respiratory mask in order to suck out cleaning fluid there .

The suction element is furthermore set up, as stated above, to be subjected to negative pressure. As stated above, this application of negative pressure and thus the suction process can take place during the application of the at least one cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus or after the application of the cleaning fluid, for example during a drying step or before a drying step. By applying negative pressure to the suction element, cleaning fluid is sucked out of the at least one interior of the respiratory mask into the suction opening. For this purpose, as stated above, the suction element can, for example, have at least one lumen, which is enclosed, for example, by a wall of the suction element, for example a lumen of a tube, a hose or a channel of the suction element. The suction opening can, for example, penetrate the wall that encloses the lumen, so that cleaning fluid can enter the lumen through the suction opening. The lumen can in particular be elongated. The lumen can, for example, be connected or connectable at at least one connection point to at least one negative pressure source, also referred to as a vacuum source, for example at at least one connection point or another type of connection point.

The term "cleaning fluid" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a liquid which can have a cleaning effect when it comes into contact with the items to be cleaned. Accordingly, the term “cleaning fluid” will also be used below instead of the term “cleaning fluid” without restricting the use of other fluid media. In particular, the cleaning liquid can comprise an aqueous liquid, for example water and/or water with one or more additives, for example with one or more cleaning concentrates and/or rinse aids and/or disinfectants. The breathing apparatus can be supplied with cleaning fluid in such a way that a single cleaning fluid is used or in such a way that a combination of several cleaning fluids is used. If several cleaning liquids are provided, the application of the different cleaning liquids can take place simultaneously or sequentially. For example, the cleaning basket with the breathing apparatus can remain stationary within a cleaning chamber of a cleaning device and can be successively supplied with the various cleaning liquids and/or cleaning fluids.

As further stated above, the cleaning fluid may in particular comprise at least one cleaning fluid selected from the group consisting of: an aqueous cleaning fluid; a cleaning fluid with at least one cleaning solution; a cleaning fluid with at least one rinse aid; a cleaning fluid with at least one disinfectant; a rinse fluid; demineralized water; a heated cleaning fluid, in particular a cleaning fluid heated to a temperature of 30 ° C to 70 ° C and particularly preferably 60 ° C.

“Applying cleaning fluid” can generally be understood to mean bringing the item to be cleaned, in this case the breathing apparatus, into any contact with the at least one cleaning fluid. This can be done, for example, in the form of a direct application, for example by spraying, dripping, irradiating or a combination of the mentioned and/or other types of direct application, in which the cleaning fluid directly hits the item to be cleaned, for example the breathing apparatus and/or the breathing mask. This configuration of the application can take place in particular with a fixed cleaning chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the application can also take place in such a way that the cleaning chamber is completely or partially filled with cleaning fluid, so that the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber come into contact with the cleaning fluid at least in one position of the cleaning chamber. This design of the application can be used in particular in a design of the cleaning chamber as a movable cleaning chamber, for example in the form of a drum. Combinations of the above-mentioned types of exposure and/or other types of exposure are also possible. Regardless of whether the cleaning chamber is designed to be rigid or movable, the application of the cleaning fluid can be carried out in a simple operation in that the cleaning fluid only acts once on the items to be cleaned, for example the breathing apparatus and/or the breathing mask. Alternatively or additionally, cleaning can also be carried out in circulation mode by applying cleaning fluid several times to the items to be cleaned. Such circulation operations and circulation circuits are known, for example, from conventional dishwashers.

The suction element can in particular have at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a suction tube with the at least one suction opening, in particular a curved suction tube; a suction hose with the at least one suction opening; a U-tube with the at least one suction opening; a pipe loop; a disk-shaped suction element with the at least one suction opening; a spoon-shaped suction element with the at least one suction opening. Other forms are also fundamentally possible. For example, other pipe or tubular elements are basically possible. Alternatively or additionally, one or more suction elements can also be used which do not have a tubular shape, but which, for example, have at least one suction opening and at least one internal structure with which cleaning fluid can be sucked off. For example, as stated above, it is conceivable to have a disk-shaped or spoon-shaped element through which the respiratory mask is held and/or received in the cleaning basket. This element can have at least one suction opening, for example at its deepest point, and cleaning fluid can be sucked off, for example over the entire interior or via integrated channels.

As stated above, the suction element can in particular be designed at least partially, for example at least in sections, to be flexible, in particular resilient. Accordingly, the suction element can, for example, be designed to be deformable, the deformation being possible, for example, by force that can be applied manually. The deformation can be plastic or elastic. For example, the suction element can be made from a plastically or elastically deformable or more bendable metal or plastic tube. The use of a bellows, for example, is also conceivable to enable deformation.

In particular, the suction element can have at least one suction tube and/or at least one flexible tongue for insertion into the interior of the respiratory mask. This flexible tongue can be designed, for example, as a conductor loop or as a curved end of a tube or hose of the suction element. In particular, the at least one suction opening can be made in the flexible tongue, so that it can be arranged within the interior of the respiratory mask when the flexible tongue extends into this interior of the respiratory mask. Alternatively or additionally, the suction element can also be designed in such a way that the flexibility does not arise or does not arise exclusively from its shape or from its material, but rather that a rigid suction element is attached resiliently or elastically and can therefore be easily inserted into the interior of the breathing mask .

The suction element can in particular be connected directly or indirectly to the mask holder, in particular at least partially integrated into the mask holder. In particular, the suction element can be integrated into the mask holder in such a way that the suction opening is arranged between the basket frame and a point of the mask holder that projects furthest from the basket frame. This can in particular serve to ensure that the suction opening is at the lowest possible point within the interior of the respiratory mask is arranged, where, due to gravity, the cleaning fluid collects.

As stated above, the basket frame can in particular have at least one basket base and basket walls. The basket bottom and/or the basket walls can in particular be made entirely or partially from at least one metallic material and/or entirely or partially from at least one plastic material. The mask holder and the suction element can be connected to the basket frame, permanently or releasably.

In particular, the mask holder can have at least one projection protruding from the basket frame. For example, the respiratory mask can be attached or clamped onto this projection.

The mask holder can in particular have a wire frame, for example made of a round wire, so that the sensitive respiratory masks are not damaged by sharp edges when they are clamped on. The wire frame can be made from a metallic material or, for example, from a plastic material.

The cleaning basket can in particular have at least one suction line. This suction line can be designed, for example, as a pipe, hose or channel and can, for example, be firmly connected to the basket frame or can also be integrated into the basket frame, for example in a basket base of the basket frame. The suction element can be fluidly connected to the suction line. For example, the suction element can be connected in one piece to the suction line or can also be designed independently of the suction line, but be fluidly connected to it. In particular, a lumen of the suction element can be connected or connectable to a lumen of the suction line. The suction line can in particular have at least one connection for connecting, in particular for releasably connecting, a suction device, which can in particular be a completely or partially part of a cleaning device. For example, the at least one connection can have a pressure port or a screw connection to which a vacuum line of the cleaning device, into which the cleaning basket can be or is inserted, is connected. The pressure port can, for example, have a quick-release fastener, for example a bayonet fastener.

The suction device, with which the at least one suction line can be connected and which will be described in more detail below, can be integrated completely or partially into the cleaning device, which accommodates the at least one cleaning basket. Alternatively or in addition, the suction device can also be at least partially integrated into the cleaning basket. For example, components of a suction device, such as a Venturi nozzle described in more detail below, can be located directly on or in the cleaning basket, for example connected to the basket frame or integrated into the basket frame. In this case, for example, the suction line can be connected directly or indirectly to this suction device which is completely or partially integrated into the cleaning basket or which is permanently or releasably connected to the cleaning basket, with a fixed or releasable connection being conceivable.

If the suction device is completely or partially integrated into the cleaning basket, the cleaning device can, for example, support, control or even supply energy to the suction device. In particular, the suction device can be set up to be supplied with compressed air by the cleaning device, for example if the suction device has at least one pump, for example a Venturi nozzle. In this case, a vacuum supply from the cleaning device is not absolutely necessary.

A complete or partial integration of the suction device into the cleaning basket can also be advantageous for reasons of installation space. For example, installation space for the suction device can be saved in the cleaning device itself.

An embodiment in which the suction device is completely or partially integrated into the cleaning basket can in particular also be used to pick up the items to be cleaned by type. For example, a cleaning basket according to the invention can be equipped with respiratory masks, while other cleaning baskets can be equipped with regulators, for example, as in WO 2011/144518 A2 described. In the latter case, the cleaning device can already have a pressurization device, for example a compressed air source, which can then also be used to operate the suction device. For example, by means of an upstream valve, the desired timing of the pressurization can then be controlled by controlling the cleaning device, for example by selecting the corresponding cleaning program. For example, when cleaning the regulators, pressurization can take place permanently, whereas when cleaning the respiratory masks, the pressurization and thus the operation of the suction device can only take place at the end of a rinsing process, for example.

Several different types of cleaning baskets can be used in the cleaning device, including the cleaning basket proposed here. It is also conceivable that the cleaning baskets and in particular the cleaning basket proposed here are coded and, for example, have at least one identifier. The at least one identifier can, for example, comprise at least one optical, electronic or magnetic identifier, for example a barcode or an RFID label. Purely mechanical coding and scanning, for example using an electromechanical cam switch, are also conceivable. In general, the cleaning device can be set up, for example, to recognize the cleaning basket and, for example, to select and/or adapt a cleaning program accordingly, controlled in particular by the controller. This detection can take place, for example, via at least one sensor of the cleaning device.

As stated above, the cleaning basket is set up with the suction element to suck cleaning fluid that has penetrated into the breathing mask of the breathing apparatus from the interior of the breathing mask. In addition, however, the cleaning basket can still be set up to protect at least one gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus during cleaning with the cleaning fluid by pressurizing it, for example in WO 2011/144518 A2 described. Accordingly, the cleaning basket can further have at least one pressure connection that can be connected to at least one gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus, wherein the gas-carrying element can be pressurized with compressed gas while the cleaning fluid is being applied to the breathing apparatus. In this way, a suction of undesirably penetrated cleaning fluid from an interior of the respiratory mask can be combined with an efficient prevention of undesirably penetrated cleaning fluid in the at least one gas-carrying element, such as the regulator. The pressure connection can in particular comprise at least one positive and/or non-positive connecting element in order to additionally establish a mechanical connection to the breathing apparatus, in particular a quick coupling and/or a thread. The cleaning basket can in particular have a detachable compressed gas connection for connecting the pressure connection to a pressurization device of a cleaning device, in particular a cleaning device into which the cleaning basket can be inserted.

As stated above, the pressure connection can also be used for suction, particularly if the suction device is fully or partially integrated into the cleaning basket. The pressure connection can therefore serve several functions.

As stated above, the cleaning basket can be set up to clean the breathing apparatus with at least one respiratory mask, and optionally with at least one gas-carrying element. In addition, however, the cleaning basket can also be set up to clean other components of the breathing apparatus. In particular, at least one small parts basket for holding small parts of the breathing apparatus can also be arranged in the cleaning basket, in particular a lockable small parts basket with a basket lid.

• mindestens einen erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungskorb, beispielsweise gemäß einer oder mehrerer der oben beschriebenen Ausgestaltungen und/oder gemäß einer oder mehrerer der nachfolgend noch näher beschriebenen Ausführungsformen, und
• mindestens eine Reinigungsvorrichtung, wobei die Reinigungsvorrichtung mindestens eine Reinigungskammer zur Aufnahme des mindestens einen Reinigungskorbs aufweist, wobei die Reinigungsvorrichtung weiterhin mindestens eine Beaufschlagungsvorrichtung zur Beaufschlagung des Atemgeräts mit mindestens einem Reinigungsfluid aufweist.

In a further aspect of the present invention, a cleaning system for cleaning a breathing apparatus is proposed, in particular for cleaning breathing apparatus with at least one breathing mask and optionally at least one regulator. The cleaning system includes:

• at least one cleaning basket according to the invention, for example according to one or more of the embodiments described above and / or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below, and
• at least one cleaning device, wherein the cleaning device has at least one cleaning chamber for receiving the at least one cleaning basket, wherein the cleaning device further has at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus.

The cleaning system further comprises at least one suction device that can be connected to the suction element of the cleaning basket to generate the negative pressure. As stated above, the suction device can be integrated completely or partially into the cleaning device. Alternatively or additionally, the suction device can also be fully or partially integrated into the cleaning basket.

The term "cleaning system" as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a system, i.e. to a totality of at least two functionally interacting components, which serves for cleaning in the sense of the above definition.

The term "cleaning device" as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a device which is set up to remove cleaning material from adhering macroscopic or even microscopic impurities or to at least partially eliminate such impurities. In addition, a disinfectant effect can optionally be exerted. The cleaning device can, as will be explained in more detail below, be designed in particular as a dishwasher, in particular as a dishwasher. The dishwasher can be designed, for example, as a single-chamber dishwasher, in particular as a commercial single-chamber dishwasher with a multi-circuit dishwasher, as a front door dishwasher or as a hood dishwasher, in particular as a push-through dishwasher. Dishwashers with water changes, especially so-called single-circuit systems, can also be used. Alternatively or in addition to dishwashers, other types of cleaning devices can also be used.

The cleaning device includes at least one cleaning chamber. The term "cleaning chamber" as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to a completely or partially closed chamber within which the cleaning process can be carried out completely or partially. The cleaning chamber can in particular have at least one housing which completely or partially encloses the cleaning chamber. A single cleaning chamber can be provided, or in principle several cleaning chambers can also be provided, for example sequentially. The cleaning chamber can, for example, have at least one opening for loading the cleaning chamber with the items to be cleaned. For example, this can be an opening with a flap arranged on a front side of the cleaning chamber and/or a top side of the cleaning chamber. Alternatively, hoods are also possible to close the cleaning chamber, for example in the context of so-called hood dishwashers or pass-through dishwashers. Other configurations are also possible in principle.

The cleaning chamber is set up to accommodate the at least one cleaning basket. For this purpose, the cleaning chamber can, for example, have at least one basket holder, for example at least one rail into which the cleaning basket can be inserted and/or at least one holding device or transport device, by means of which the basket can be moved into the cleaning chamber, out of the cleaning chamber or through the cleaning chamber can be transported through.

The cleaning device further has at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus. The application device can thus be designed in particular to apply the at least one cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus in the cleaning chamber. The application device can, for example, have at least one tank for holding the at least one cleaning fluid and, for example, one or more nozzles. In particular, the application device can, for example, have at least two nozzle arms accommodated in the cleaning chamber. In addition, the application device can have further elements, such as one or more pumps for transporting the cleaning fluid to the at least one nozzle and one or more pipes. The application device can in particular be controlled by at least one control of the cleaning device.

The term "applying device" as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any basically arbitrary device by means of which the items to be cleaned within the cleaning chamber can be acted upon with the at least one cleaning fluid, in particular the at least one cleaning liquid. The application device has, for example, at least one nozzle system with at least one nozzle, for example with one or more nozzle arms, which can be arranged, for example, above and/or below the items to be cleaned. Furthermore, the application device can comprise at least one pump and at least one line system for providing cleaning fluid to the nozzle system. For example, a nozzle system and a line system for supplying cleaning liquid from a tank can be provided, as well as at least one corresponding pump. Alternatively or additionally, for example, at least one nozzle system can be supplied directly from a supply line without the need for a pump. The cleaning device can in particular be designed as a cleaning device with two tanks, a washing tank and a rinsing tank. Accordingly, the application device can in particular comprise a washing system and a rinsing system, wherein, for example, the washing system can have the washing tank and a washing nozzle system as well as a washing line system and a washing pump, for example a circulation pump. The rinsing system can, for example, have a rinsing tank that is separate from the washing tank, as well as a rinsing nozzle system, a rinsing line system and optionally a rinsing pump. The rinsing nozzle system and the washing nozzle system can, for example, be designed completely or partially separately.

Optionally, however, these nozzle systems can also be combined in whole or in part, for example in a common housing.

As stated above, the application device can in particular have at least one nozzle. This at least one nozzle can in particular comprise at least one nozzle selected from the group consisting of: a spray nozzle; a flushing nozzle; a spray arm, in particular a rotatable spray arm; a nozzle that can be operated in circulation mode.

The cleaning device can, for example, be set up to carry out at least one cleaning program by means of the application device, for example controlled by at least one control of the cleaning device, in which the items to be cleaned, for example the at least one cleaning basket with the breathing device, are accommodated stationarily in the cleaning chamber and one after the other in one or several cleaning steps of the cleaning program are applied in different ways with cleaning fluid, for example initially in at least one washing step with the at least one washing fluid and in at least one final rinsing step with the at least one final rinsing fluid. Furthermore, at least one drying step can be provided, which, for example, can be downstream of the application of the cleaning fluid in one cleaning chamber when the items to be cleaned are stationary. Accordingly, the cleaning device can be designed in particular as a program machine. Alternatively, the cleaning device can also be designed, for example, as a transport cleaning device, in which the cleaning basket with the breathing device is transported through one or more cleaning zones.

The term "tank" as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a completely or partially closed container which is set up to hold at least one fluid, in particular at least one liquid. As stated above, the at least one tank can have, for example, at least one washing tank. This at least one washing tank can, for example, be arranged in a bottom of the cleaning chamber or can also be fluidly connected to a bottom of the cleaning chamber, so that cleaning fluid can flow from the cleaning chamber into the washing tank. For example, the washing tank can be separated from the cleaning chamber by at least one sieve. In addition to the at least one washing tank, the at least one tank can also further comprise one or more further tanks. For example, at least one tank can have at least one rinsing tank, which can be designed separately from the washing tank, for example. In the at least one final rinse tank, for example, at least one final rinse fluid, also referred to as a final rinse fluid, can be prepared, for example tempered, while a washing step is still taking place in the cleaning chamber. The rinsing tank can, for example, include at least one boiler.

The cleaning system furthermore has, as stated above, the at least one suction device which can be connected to the suction element of the cleaning basket to generate the negative pressure. This suction device can be fully or partially integrated into the cleaning basket. Alternatively or additionally, the suction device can also be integrated completely or partially into the cleaning device.

The term "suction device" as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any device that is set up to suck at least one fluid, in particular a liquid, from a target space. The suction device can in particular have at least one pump and/or at least one vacuum source. The suction device can be completely or partially permanently integrated into the cleaning device or can also have, for example, a vacuum connection of the cleaning device, by means of which the cleaning device can be connected to a vacuum line, for example an on-site vacuum line. Alternatively or additionally, however, the cleaning device itself can also have at least one negative pressure source, also referred to as a vacuum source, in particular at least one pump. The suction device can be firmly connected to the suction element of the cleaning basket or can also be detachably connected to it. Alternatively or additionally, the suction device can also be completely or partially integrated into the cleaning basket, for example in the form of at least one Venturi nozzle.

The cleaning system can further have at least one pressurization device with at least one pressure connection. A pressurization device can generally be understood as a device which is set up to be able to provide a fluid, in particular a gas, with a pressure above the normal pressure, for example a pressure of at least 1.5 bar, preferably a pressure of at least 2 bar.

A pressure connection can in principle be understood to mean any connection of the pressurization device, via which the fluid, in particular the gas, can be made available to the pressure application device. In particular, this pressure connection can be arranged inside the cleaning chamber and/or be accessible from the inside of the cleaning chamber. Providing a plurality of pressure connections is also conceivable.

The pressure connection should be connectable to at least one gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus in the cleaning chamber, preferably with several gas-carrying elements of several breathing apparatuses in the cleaning chamber. A gas-carrying element can generally be understood to mean an element which is exposed to a breathing gas when the breathing apparatus is used by a human or animal user or which can come into contact with the breathing gas in some other way. In particular, this can be a regulator and/or a breathing tube with at least one valve. In particular, the gas-conducting element can be an element which has at least one hose and/or at least one other type of gas-conducting device with an interior and/or at least one valve, which are generally not allowed to be exposed to cleaning fluid. For example, the gas-carrying element can be an area of the breathing apparatus which is subjected to a pressure above the normal pressure during operation, for example a gas-carrying area of a breathing apparatus above a normal pressure, for example above 1.5 bar, in particular above 2 bar . In particular, it can be a breathing gas-carrying area of a regulator, whereby the regulator can basically be a single-stage or a multi-stage regulator. The gas-carrying element can, for example, be part of a first stage and/or a second stage and/or possibly further stages of the regulator or even a complete regulator. For example, the gas-carrying element can be an area between a hose connection and a valve of a regulator, or the gas-carrying element can include such an area.

A connection between the pressure connection and the gas-carrying element can generally be understood to mean a fluidic connection, in particular a gas connection, so that the pressurized fluid of the pressurization device is transferred into the gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus, in particular into an interior of the gas-carrying element can, preferably without fluid loss and/or pressure loss occurring in this connection. In addition, the connection between the pressure connection and the gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus can optionally be at least include a mechanical connection, in particular a positive and/or non-positive connection, so that the breathing apparatus can be firmly connected to the pressure connection. For example, this can be a screw connection and/or a clamp connection and/or a clamping connection, for which purpose the pressure connection and/or the breathing apparatus can each have at least one mechanical connecting element. In particular, this can be a plug connection in the form of a quick coupling and/or a thread, for example a coupling piece for a breathing connection of a regulator. A quick coupling is generally understood to mean a gas-tight and/or liquid-tight plug connection between two fluid-conducting components, which can be mechanically secured by a mechanical fixation that can be produced and released in a simple and quick manner, in particular without using a screw cap, for example by at least one clamping hook and/or a bayonet lock and/or a screw lock, for example a union nut. The connection can in particular be made without tools. In particular, the pressure connection can comprise a plurality of fixed or interchangeable adapters for connection to different types of gas-carrying elements. By means of these adapters, a plurality of different gas-carrying elements can be connected directly or indirectly to the pressure connection, for example different types and/or different types of gas-carrying elements, for example different makes or manufacturers. For example, an adapter set with a plurality of different coupling pieces (for example coupling pieces of a quick coupling) and/or threads can be provided for connecting different gas-carrying elements. For example, these can be different quick coupling systems and/or standard threads. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one pressure connection can also be designed as a fixed pressure connection for a specific type of connecting element or for a specific type of gas-carrying element. It is particularly advantageous if the pressure connection and/or the coupling system are set up in such a way that, on the one hand, no gas can escape if no counterpart is connected, and that in this case no other medium, for example cleaning fluid, can enter the gas-carrying element.

The pressurization device is set up to pressurize the gas-carrying element with compressed gas. A compressed gas can generally be understood to mean any gas that has a pressure above normal pressure, i.e. a pressure above 1 bar. In particular, this can be a pressure above 1.5 bar, in particular above 2 bar, and particularly preferably above 3 bar. In particular, the pressure application device can be set up in such a way that that the pressurization with the compressed gas takes place in such a way that all cleaning fluid is kept away from an interior of the breathing apparatus that is pressurized with the compressed gas. The compressed gas can be, for example, compressed air or another gaseous medium with an excess pressure, for example nitrogen, carbon dioxide or the like. In particular, an inert gas can be used as compressed gas. The cleaning device can in particular be designed such that the pressurization via the pressurization device takes place during at least one cleaning process, for example during at least one program step of a single-step or multi-step cleaning program. In particular, the pressurized gas can be applied at the same time as the cleaning fluid is applied to the breathing apparatus. The pressure connection can accordingly be arranged in particular within the cleaning chamber, so that the simultaneous application of compressed gas and cleaning fluid can take place.

• mindestens einem externen Druckanschluss zur Verbindung mit einer externen Druckgasquelle, insbesondere einer bauseitigen Druckgasleitung und/oder einer Druckgasflasche;
• einer in die Reinigungsvorrichtung integrierten Druckgasquelle, insbesondere eine integrierte Druckgasflasche und/oder einen integrierten Kompressor.

The pressurization device can in particular have at least one element selected from the group consisting of:

• at least one external pressure connection for connection to an external compressed gas source, in particular an on-site compressed gas line and/or a compressed gas bottle;
• a compressed gas source integrated into the cleaning device, in particular an integrated compressed gas bottle and/or an integrated compressor.

As stated above, the pressure connection can in particular comprise at least one positive and/or non-positive connecting element. This connecting element can be set up to establish a mechanical connection to the breathing apparatus in addition to the gas-tight connection. In particular, this at least one connecting element can have at least one quick coupling and/or at least one thread. In general, the pressure connection can be completely or partially integrated into the cleaning basket. The cleaning basket can generally have, in particular, at least one detachable compressed gas connection to the cleaning device. The pressurization device can in particular have at least one valve, in particular at least one valve, which can be controlled by the control of the cleaning device.

The cleaning basket can in particular have at least one connection, for example at least one detachable suction connection, for connecting the suction element to the suction device. This connection can, for example, be manually connectable to the suction device, for example by the suction connection having at least one releasable coupling element, for example a quick coupling Schaub connection or a bayonet lock. Alternatively or additionally, the connection can also be set up in such a way that a connection of the suction element to the suction device is automatically established, for example when the cleaning basket is introduced into the cleaning chamber of the cleaning device. For example, the cleaning basket with the connection, for example the detachable suction connection, can be pressed against a suction port or a suction opening of the cleaning device when the cleaning basket is introduced into the cleaning chamber. For example, a press connection can be created between the connection and the suction port and/or the suction opening of the cleaning device when the cleaning chamber is closed, for example by an opening device of the cleaning device, for example a door, pressing against the cleaning basket.

As stated above, the suction device can in particular comprise at least one vacuum source, which can be fully or partially integrated into the cleaning device. Alternatively or additionally, however, the suction device can also have at least one vacuum connection, which can be connectable to an on-site vacuum source, for example a vacuum line. In particular, the suction device can comprise at least one device selected from the group consisting of: a jet pump, in particular a Venturi nozzle; a pump. This device can in particular be integrated completely or partially into the cleaning device and/or the cleaning basket.

The suction device can in particular be set up to return cleaning fluid sucked out of the breathing mask into a fluidic system of the cleaning device, in particular into at least one tank of the cleaning device. For this purpose, the suction device can in particular separate cleaning fluid from a fluid stream sucked out of the interior of the respiratory mask. The cleaning system, in particular the cleaning device and/or in particular the suction device, can thus have at least one liquid separator.

The suction device can in particular have at least one valve. Accordingly, the suction device can be operated in a controlled manner, for example, so that the suction process can only be carried out at certain times, for example. The at least one valve can be controlled, for example, by a control of the cleaning device, so that the suction process can be carried out, for example, as part of at least one program step of a cleaning program.

The suction device can in particular have at least one suction line, wherein the suction line can be connected to a connection of the cleaning basket. As stated above, this suction line can, for example, have at least one suction port and/or a suction opening, which can be connected to at least one connection, for example at least one suction connection, of the cleaning basket and in particular of the suction element, for example manually and/or automatically.

As stated above, the cleaning device can be designed in various ways. The cleaning device can be designed as a single-chamber cleaning device or as a multi-chamber cleaning device. The cleaning device can be designed as a stationary cleaning device, in which the cleaning basket remains stationary in the cleaning chamber during the cleaning process, or as a transport cleaning device, in which the cleaning basket is transported through the cleaning chamber. In particular, the cleaning device can comprise a single-chamber dishwasher, in particular a single-chamber dishwasher for commercial use, in particular with at least two tanks. The single-chamber dishwasher can therefore in particular have at least one fluid tank formed separately from the cleaning chamber, wherein at least one cleaning fluid in the fluid tank can be conditioned, in particular heated, independently of a cleaning process taking place in the cleaning device. In addition, the single-chamber dishwasher can have at least one washing tank, which is connected, for example, to the cleaning chamber. Alternatively, however, the cleaning device can also include a dishwasher, for example a single-chamber dishwasher, which is designed as a so-called water-change dishwasher and which, for example, only has a tank and no separate fluid tank.

As stated above, the cleaning device can in particular have at least one controller and be set up to carry out at least one cleaning program with at least two different program steps. The term "control" as used herein is a broad term that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a special or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a one-part or multi-part device of the cleaning device, which is set up to completely or partially control and/or regulate an operation of the cleaning device. In particular, the controller can be set up to change, in particular to control and/or regulate, one or more operating parameters of the cleaning device, for example at least one temperature, at least one pressure, at least one pump output, at least a valve position, at least one heating output or a combination of two or more of the operating parameters mentioned. The controller can in particular comprise at least one data processing device, for example at least one processor. The control can in particular be set up in terms of programming, for example to control or carry out at least one cleaning program of the cleaning device. Accordingly, the setup of the control can be implemented partially by hardware or/also, alternatively or additionally, completely or partially by software. Furthermore, the controller can include at least one volatile and/or non-volatile data memory. Furthermore, the controller can comprise at least one interface, for example a human-machine interface for inputting commands and/or outputting information, and/or a wireless or wired interface for unidirectional or bidirectional exchange of data and/or commands between the cleaning device and at least one further device. The control can in particular comprise at least one computer and/or at least one processor. The control can in particular be a central or decentralized machine control of the cleaning device.

The control can in particular be set up, for example set up programmatically, to control the application of negative pressure to the suction element in at least one program step of the cleaning program, so that penetrating cleaning fluid from the at least one interior of the respirator mask is at least partially sucked into the suction opening.

In a further aspect, a method for cleaning a breathing apparatus is proposed. The procedure includes the steps detailed below. These steps can be carried out in the order mentioned. However, a different order is also possible in principle. Furthermore, two or more of the method steps mentioned can be carried out overlapping in time or simultaneously. Furthermore, one or more of the method steps mentioned can be carried out simply or repeatedly. In addition to the steps mentioned, the method can include further method steps that are not mentioned.

1. a) Bereitstellen mindestens eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungskorbs, beispielsweise nach einer oder mehreren der oben beschriebenen Ausgestaltungen und/oder gemäß einer oder mehreren der nachfolgend noch näher beschriebenen Ausführungsformen;
2. b) Befestigen mindestens einer Atemschutzmaske des Atemgeräts an dem mindestens einen Maskenhalter des Reinigungskorbs;
3. c) Einbringen des Absaugelements in mindestens einen Innenraum der Atemschutzmaske, derart, dass mindestens ein Teil des Absaugelements mit der mindestens einen Absaugöffnung in den Innenraum hineinragt;
4. d) Beaufschlagen des Atemgeräts mit mindestens einem Reinigungsfluid, und
5. e) Beaufschlagung des Absaugelements mit Unterdruck und Absaugen von Reinigungsfluid aus dem Innenraum über die Absaugöffnung.

The procedure includes the following steps:

1. a) providing at least one cleaning basket according to the invention, for example according to one or more of the embodiments described above and/or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below;
2. b) attaching at least one respiratory mask of the breathing apparatus to the at least one mask holder of the cleaning basket;
3. c) introducing the suction element into at least one interior space of the respiratory mask, such that at least a part of the suction element protrudes into the interior space with the at least one suction opening;
4. d) applying at least one cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus, and
5. e) Applying negative pressure to the suction element and suctioning cleaning fluid from the interior via the suction opening.

The method can in particular be carried out in such a way that a cleaning system according to the invention is used, for example according to one or more of the embodiments described above and/or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below. In particular, the application in process step d) can take place in the cleaning chamber of the cleaning device. The application in step e) can also take place by means of the cleaning device or controlled by the cleaning device. For possible configurations, reference can be made to the above description of the cleaning system.

As stated above, the suction in method step e) can take place wholly or partially during the application of the at least one cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus in step d) or wholly or partially after method step d). In particular, process step e) can be carried out at least partially after process step d). This subsequent storage can be done by starting the suction later in time while the cleaning basket remains stationary. Alternatively, in the case of a moving cleaning basket, for example a transport cleaning device, the subsequent storage can also take place spatially, for example by first applying the at least one cleaning fluid in at least one zone and then suctioning in at least one zone.

The procedure may further include the following step:
f) Pressurizing at least one gas-carrying element of the breathing apparatus with compressed gas.

Process step f) can in particular be carried out at least temporarily simultaneously with one or both of process steps d) and e). In particular, method step f) can be carried out with one or both of these method steps overlapping in time. In particular, the application of the compressed gas can take place simultaneously with the application of the cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus.

The procedure may further include the following step:
g) at least one drying step, whereby the breathing apparatus is dried.

The drying step can take place inside the cleaning chamber or outside the cleaning chamber. For example, the drying step can be carried out by transferring the items to be cleaned from the cleaning chamber into a drying area, for example into a drying cabinet. The drying step can, for example, include heating the breathing apparatus, for example drying using hot air. Other drying processes are also known, for example from dishwashing technology, for example condensation drying. Method step e), i.e. applying negative pressure to the suction element and suctioning off cleaning fluid, can in particular take place at least partially before carrying out the drying step or also completely or partially during the drying step. Drying that is carried out completely or partially after suction can generally be carried out more efficiently than without the suction described.

The proposed cleaning basket, the proposed cleaning system and the proposed method for cleaning breathing apparatus have numerous advantages over conventional devices and methods of the type mentioned. In particular, the above-described technical challenges of known devices and methods of the type mentioned can be addressed.

The suction element can in particular be designed as a flexible or movable suction element and/or as a suction pipe. By means of the suction element, residues of the cleaning fluid, in particular residues of the cleaning fluid, in particular the cleaning liquid, which remain after cleaning in a scoop volume of the respiratory mask, for example in a partial area of the interior, can be sucked off. This suction element can be subjected to negative pressure, for example by means of an internal or external suction device. For example, an external pressure line or one already present in the cleaning device, for example the dishwasher, can be used to provide or generate a negative pressure. For example, a compressed air line can be used to supply compressed air. The negative pressure for suctioning off the liquid residues can be generated, for example, by means of at least one jet pump, in particular a Venturi nozzle.

Furthermore, cleaning fluid can be separated after suction. For example, the cleaning system can be set up to drain and/or separate a cleaning fluid/air mixture, in particular a water/air mixture. In particular, the suction device can be set up to remove the cleaning fluid/air mixture from the outlet of the suction device, in particular shielded from the actual cleaning chamber, to the bottom of the cleaning chamber. This can prevent the breathing apparatus from being wetted again with cleaning fluid, especially residual liquid.

The interior of the respiratory mask can in particular be referred to as a scoop volume or can have at least one scoop volume. In dishwashing and dishwashing technology, scoop volume typically refers to geometries of items to be cleaned from which cleaning liquid cannot drain independently. In the case of respiratory masks, these scoop volumes typically form between the mask wall and a circumferential sealing lip, which serves to seal the respiratory mask from the user's face. Alternatively or additionally, the scoop volume can also be formed in an extension at a lower end of the respiratory mask, to which a filter and/or a breathing apparatus are usually connected. This at least one scoop volume can be completely or partially freed of remaining cleaning fluid by means of the proposed suction element. In this way, the disadvantages of conventional cleaning devices described above can be avoided. In particular, the drying process can be accelerated, the cleaning result can be improved and cleaning fluid can at least largely be prevented from leaking onto a floor in the work area.

The suction element can be adapted to the respective intended use in terms of its geometry and/or its properties. In particular, the suction element can have at least one connection for negative pressure and at least one suction opening with which, for example, residual liquid can be sucked out. The suction element can in particular be designed such that the suction opening can easily be introduced to the lowest point or at least in the vicinity of the lowest point of the suction volume. Furthermore, the suction element can also be set up to support fixation of the respiratory mask on the mask holder in the cleaning basket.

The suction element can be mounted flexibly in the cleaning basket, in particular in terms of its spatial orientation and/or position. For example, a variable orientation and/or shape of the suction element may be possible. Mobility, for example, in different directions, for example in all three spatial directions, as well as alternatively or additionally, if necessary, a spring-loaded suspension on the cleaning basket can additionally support these requirements.

One or more mask holders can be provided in the cleaning basket. If several mask holders are provided, each mask holder can, for example, be assigned at least one suction element. If several suction elements are provided in the cleaning basket, they can be connected to a common suction line, for example a common channel. This suction line can in turn be connected or connectable to a suction device. For example, the suction line can be connected or can be connected to a suction pump, for example to a suction port of a Venturi nozzle, and can thereby be subjected to negative pressure. As stated above, the suction device can also be completely or partially integrated into the cleaning basket itself, so that, for example, the cleaning device only provides pressure, for example compressed air, for the operation of the suction device, for example the Venturi nozzle.

A connection between the suction element of the cleaning basket and the suction device can be fixed or detachable. For example, one or more hose connections can be provided, which can be designed to be easily detachable, for example by means of one or more quick couplings. Various materials are conceivable as materials for channels and connections, for example plastics, stainless steel, elastomers or combinations of the materials mentioned and/or other materials. The materials used should generally meet the requirements during the cleaning process, particularly with regard to thermal and/or chemical stability.

In general, the negative pressure can be applied in various ways using the suction device. So, apart from a pump integrated into the cleaning device, suction can also, alternatively or additionally, be generated using other means. For example, the suction device can also have at least one water jet pump, which can be operated with fresh water, for example fresh water from an on-site source. Alternatively or additionally, as stated above, a connection to an on-site vacuum supply is possible or, alternatively or additionally, an electric motor-operated suction device.

The suction device can be controlled, for example, via at least one valve, for example via at least one solenoid valve. The valve can in particular be controlled by at least one control of the cleaning device, in particular at least one machine control, for example depending on a cleaning program. Optionally, as explained above, a compressed air supply can also be switched on. Depending on requirements, this can also be done between individual program steps Residual liquid can be sucked out of the scoop volume, for example to improve the cleaning and rinsing results.

The activation of the suction device and its control can, for example, be carried out as needed, for example by a corresponding cleaning basket activating the device with the aid of a basket recognition present in the cleaning device. For example, the cleaning device can have at least one detection device, for example at least one sensor, which detects the type of cleaning basket and which can in particular be set up to detect whether the cleaning basket has the at least one suction element or whether it is a cleaning basket without such Suction element is. Accordingly, the control can then be set up to activate a suction device or not.

The cleaning device can also have one or more compressed air nozzles in order to blow the breathing apparatus with compressed air and/or compressed gas. For example, the cleaning device can have one or more flexible and/or movable compressed air nozzles, by means of which compressed air and/or compressed gas can be directed specifically to the at least one respiratory mask, in particular to support the drainage of cleaning fluid and to improve the drying result. In this way, for example, residues of cleaning fluid on one or more viewing panels of the respiratory mask can be avoided or at least reduced, especially in an area relevant to visibility. The one or more compressed air nozzles can, for example, be equipped with at least one switching element of their own, for example with at least one valve, which can be controlled by the controller.

Overall, with the proposed suction element and the proposed suction device, for example, a residual amount of liquid in a suction volume of the respiratory mask can be reduced. In this way, for example, manual pouring out after cleaning can be avoided. In particular, the scoop volume can be sucked off at the end of the program sequence or before the end of the program sequence, for example after exposure to the cleaning fluid. A suction of cleaning fluid between two program steps is also conceivable, for example between two program steps in which the breathing apparatus is supplied with different types of cleaning fluid. For example, a suction step can be interposed between a washing step and a final rinsing step in order to completely or partially remove washing fluid from the interior, in particular from the scoop volume, before final rinsing. In this way, a final rinse result in particular can be further improved.

Furthermore, drying time can also be significantly improved, both when drying inside the cleaning chamber and when drying outside the cleaning chamber, for example in a drying cabinet. For example, by means of the at least one suction element and/or by means of the at least one suction device, a residual amount of cleaning fluid in the respiratory mask can be reduced compared to conventional methods. This reduces the necessary drying time, for example within the cleaning device itself and/or in a drying cabinet.

Furthermore, the washing result can also be further improved by the at least one compressed air nozzle described above. By using additional compressed air nozzles, residue-free drying can be achieved in important areas, such as on a viewing window, while at the same time minimizing the use of rinse aid and reducing drying time.

Short description of the characters

Further details and features emerge from the following description of exemplary embodiments, in particular in connection with the subclaims. The respective features can be implemented alone or in combination with each other. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments. The exemplary embodiments are shown schematically in the figures. The same reference numbers in the individual figures designate elements that are the same or have the same function or correspond to one another in terms of their functions.

Figur 1

ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines Reinigungssystems zur Reinigung von einem Atemgerät in einer Schnittdarstellung von der Seite;

Figur 2

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Reinigungskorbs schräg von oben;

Figur 3

eine Draufsicht auf den Reinigungskorb gemäß Figur 2;

Figur 4

eine perspektivische Detailansicht eines Maskenhalters des Reinigungskorbs gemäß Figur 2 ohne Atemschutzmaske; und

Figur 5

eine perspektivische Teilschnittansicht des Maskenhalters mit aufgespannter Atemschutzmaske.

Show in detail:

Figure 1

an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning system for cleaning a breathing apparatus in a sectional view from the side;

Figure 2

a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning basket diagonally from above;

Figure 3

a top view of the cleaning basket according to Figure 2 ;

Figure 4

a perspective detailed view of a mask holder of the cleaning basket according to Figure 2 without a breathing mask; and

Figure 5

a perspective partial sectional view of the mask holder with the respiratory mask stretched on.

Description of the exemplary embodiments

In Figure 1 is, in a sectional view from the side, an embodiment of a cleaning system 110 for cleaning a breathing apparatus 112 shown. The breathing apparatus includes at least one respiratory mask 114 and, optionally, additional components such as gas-carrying elements 116, for example regulators.

In this exemplary embodiment, the cleaning system 110 includes a cleaning device 118 and at least one cleaning basket 120. The cleaning basket 120 is in Figure 1 shown schematically. Detailed views of a possible design of this cleaning basket 120 are in the Figures 2-5 shown. This shows Figure 2 a perspective view of the cleaning basket 120 diagonally from above, Figure 3 shows a top view of the cleaning basket 120, Figure 4 shows a perspective detailed view of a mask holder 122 without a respiratory mask 114, and Figure 5 shows a perspective partial sectional view of the mask holder 122 with the respiratory mask 114 stretched on. These figures are explained in context below.

The cleaning device 118 has a housing 124 in which various components of the cleaning device 118 are accommodated. For example, a control 126 of the cleaning device 118 can also be accommodated in this housing 124. The housing 124 encloses a cleaning chamber 128 for receiving the at least one cleaning basket 120. The housing 124 can, for example, have an opening device 130, by means of which the cleaning chamber 128 can be opened or closed in order to introduce the cleaning basket 120 into the cleaning chamber 128. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the opening device 130 is shown as a hood 132. Accordingly, the cleaning device 118 can be designed, for example, as a pass-through dishwasher. However, other configurations are also possible, for example configurations in which the opening device 130 is designed as a flap or door. The cleaning chamber 128 is in Figure 1 shown in open state. Within the cleaning chamber 128, for example, a basket holder 134 can be provided, for example a rail system.

The cleaning device 118 includes at least one application device 136 for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the breathing device 112. With regard to possible configurations of the loading device 136, reference can be made, for example, to the above prior art, for example WO 2011/144518 A2 . In particular, the application device 136 can have at least one nozzle system 138. Furthermore, the application device 136 can have at least one, preferably at least two, tanks for holding the at least one cleaning fluid, as well as one or more pumps.

Like for example in Figure 2 As can be seen, the cleaning basket 120 in the illustrated exemplary embodiment comprises a basket frame 140 with a basket wall 142 and a basket bottom 144. The cleaning basket 120 further comprises the already mentioned at least one mask holder 122, with four mask holders 122 being provided as an example in the exemplary embodiment shown. These can, for example, be aligned in such a way that the respiratory masks that are stretched point into the four corners of the cleaning basket 120. A different number is also possible. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the mask holders 122 are connected to the basket frame 140 in a fixed or detachable manner, for example, they can be detachably placed on the basket frame 140 as a frame.

The mask holders 122 can, for example, be designed as wire loops, for example made of round wire, as can be seen in the figures. However, other embodiments are also possible in principle, for example embodiments in which the mask holders 122 have a head shape or a face shape.

Like for example in Figure 5 recognizable, the at least one respiratory mask 114 can be placed or clamped onto the mask holder 122. This can preferably be done in such a way that at least one viewing window 146 of the respiratory mask 114 points upwards. On the underside, however, at least one interior space 148 of the respiratory mask 114 is generally formed, which is partially enclosed by the respiratory mask 114 and is generally opened downwards in the unclamped state. Nevertheless, one or more scoop volumes 150 usually form in this interior space 148, for example in the area of one or more seals 152 and/or in a connection area 154 for at least one gas-carrying element 116. Since the respiratory mask 114 is usually cleaned from above and from below and is supplied with cleaning fluid, such as in the arrangement according to Figure 1 , as a rule, cleaning fluid collects in this interior 148, as described above, which cannot flow off completely after the application of the cleaning fluid has ended. In many cases, this residual amount of cleaning fluid disrupts the cleaning process and a subsequent drying process within the cleaning device 118 and/or in a separate drying cabinet and can also lead to safety problems due to the risk of slipperiness if it leaks onto a floor in front of the cleaning device 118.

To avoid this problem, the cleaning basket 120 also has at least one suction element 156. This suction element 156 is designed, for example, as a tube, as a hose, as a channel or in another way such that a lumen 157 is preferably formed in its interior, by means of which the suction element 156 is supplied with vacuum or can be subjected to negative pressure. For example, in this as well as in other exemplary embodiments, the suction element 156 can be designed as a curved pipe loop 158 or can comprise a pipe loop 158, with the pipe loop 158 or its curved region preferably pointing downwards.

The suction element 156 comprises at least one suction opening 160, which is formed, for example, in the lowest point of the pipe loop 158. Like for example in Figure 5 As can be seen, the suction element 156 is set up in such a way that it can extend into the interior 148 of the respiratory mask 114 held by the mask holder 122. For example, at least one suction element 156 can be assigned to each mask holder 122. The suction element 156 is set up to be subjected to negative pressure, for example by applying a corresponding vacuum or negative pressure to the lumen 157. In this way, cleaning fluid can be sucked out of the interior 148 into the suction opening 160 in order to completely or partially remove the cleaning fluid from the interior 148, in particular from the scoop volume 150.

In order to facilitate the introduction of the suction element 156 into the interior 148, the suction element 156 can in particular be designed to be at least partially flexible, in particular resilient. Like for example in Figure 4 recognizable, the suction element 156 can be mounted, for example, resiliently for this purpose. The suction element 156 can, as shown by way of example in the figures, extend, for example, directly or indirectly from the mask holder 122, whereby, for example by means of a spring bearing 162, an extent of this extension can be made variable. In this way, for example, the pipe loop 158 shown can be designed as a flexible tongue. Furthermore, this flexibility can ensure, for example, that the suction opening 160 is arranged, for example, near the lowest point of the suction volume 150.

The cleaning basket 120 also has at least one suction line 164, the suction element 156 being fluidly connected to the suction line 164 in such a way that the suction element 156 can be subjected to a negative pressure via the suction line 164. If several suction elements 156 are provided in the cleaning basket 120, this suction line 164 can provide a common or separate application of negative pressure for these suction elements 156. The suction line 164 can be rigid or flexible.

The suction line 164 can in particular have at least one connection 166 for connecting the at least one suction element 156 to a vacuum source. In particular, the connection 166 can enable a connection, preferably a detachable connection, to a suction device 168, which is exemplary in Figure 1 is shown. There are several options that can also be combined with one another. For example, the suction device 168 can be completely integrated into the cleaning device 118, as in Figure 1 shown. Alternatively or additionally, however, the suction device 168 can also rely entirely or partially on on-site devices, for example a vacuum line. Alternatively or additionally, the suction device 168 can also be integrated completely or partially into the cleaning basket 120.

In particular, the suction device 168, as in Figure 1 shown have a pump 170. This pump can be designed, for example, as a jet pump 172 and can include a Venturi nozzle 174. For example, the cleaning device can have a compressed gas line 176, which is connected to the Venturi nozzle 174, for example via a valve 178. The Venturi nozzle 174 is in turn connected or connectable to the connection 166 of the cleaning basket 120, for example via a suction line 180. This connection can take place automatically, for example, when the cleaning basket 120 is introduced into the cleaning chamber 128, or manually. An automatic connection can be established, for example, when the opening device 130 is closed. One or more valves can also be introduced into the suction line 180, for example at least one check valve 182. It should be noted that, instead of the jet pump 172 shown, another type of suction device 168 can also be used alternatively or additionally, for example a different type of vacuum pump or liquid pump.

Furthermore, the suction device 168 can have at least one liquid separator 184, which is also exemplary in Figure 1 is shown. This can be connected, for example, to the Venturi nozzle 174 and/or to another type of jet pump 172. The liquid separator 184 can, for example, be set up in such a way that separated cleaning fluid, which has been sucked out of the interior 148, is guided back into a fluidic system of the cleaning device 118. For example, the liquid separator 184 can be arranged entirely or partially in the cleaning chamber 128 or connected to it. For example, separated cleaning fluid can be returned directly or indirectly to a tank of the cleaning device 118.

For further possible components of the cleaning basket 120 can be seen as an example WO 2011/144518 A2 to get expelled. In particular, the cleaning basket 120 can have at least one small parts basket for holding small parts, in which, for example, accessories can be cleaned without an association with the respiratory masks 114 being lost.

Furthermore, the suction described here can also be used using the principle of in WO 2011/144518 A2 described pressurization of gas-carrying elements 116 can be combined with cleaning fluid while the breathing apparatus 112 is being acted upon in order to prevent cleaning fluid from penetrating into the gas-carrying elements 116. As in Figure 1 recognizable, this principle can be based on the same compressed gas line 176 as the suction. However, separate pressurization is also possible.

To implement this pressurization for gas-carrying elements 116, the cleaning basket 120 can additionally have at least one pressure connection 188, which, for example, in the Figures 1 , 3 and 5 is recognizable. This pressure connection 188 can be set up to pressurize the gas-carrying element 116 with compressed gas while the breathing apparatus 112 is supplied with the cleaning fluid. For this purpose, the pressure connection 188 can have at least one quick coupling 190, for example. The pressure connection 188 can, for example, be connectable to a pressurization device 194 of the cleaning device 118 via a detachable compressed gas connection 192. This connection can in turn be established manually or, for example, can be established automatically, for example when closing the opening device 130. The pressurizing device 194 can, for example, comprise a compressed gas source integrated into the cleaning device 118 or, as exemplified in Figure 1 shown, rely on an external compressed gas source, for example an on-site compressed gas supply 196. This on-site compressed gas supply 196 can, for example by means of a branch 198, optionally also be used at the same time for the operation of the suction device 168. The pressurization device 194 can, for example, comprise a compressed gas line 200, which can be connected to the compressed gas connection 192. At least one check valve 202 can optionally be provided in the compressed gas line 200.

The pressurization device 194 can also be used to additionally, for example by means of one or more nozzles, which in Figure 1 are not shown, blowing the breathing apparatus 112 with compressed gas, for example compressed air. This can be used, for example, during drying to prevent cleaning fluid from running off from the breathing apparatus 112, in particular from the breathing mask 114, to additionally promote.

The cleaning device 118 can in particular be designed as a program machine and can be set up to carry out at least one cleaning program with several program steps using the controller 126. For example, the application of the cleaning fluid can take place in at least one program step, for example this at least one program step can include at least one washing step and at least one final rinsing step. During this application of cleaning fluid, the above-described pressure can be applied to the at least one gas-carrying element 116. Suction can already take place during this exposure or in a subsequent program step. This can be done, for example, in a separate suction step. This step can also be integrated entirely or partially into a drying process, which, as described above, can take place entirely or partially in the cleaning device 118. Alternatively or additionally, however, the drying can also take place completely or partially outside the cleaning chamber 128, for example after carrying out the suction step, for example in a drying cabinet.

Reference symbol list

110

Cleaning system

112

Respiratory Equipment

114

Respirator mask

116

gas-carrying element

118

Cleaning device

120

Cleaning basket

122

Mask holder

124

Housing

126

steering

128

Cleaning chamber

130

Opening device

132

Hood

134

Basket holder

136

loading device

138

Nozzle system

140

Basket frame

142

Wicker wall

144

Basket bottom

146

viewing window

148

inner space

150

scoop volume

152

poetry

154

Connection area

156

Suction element

157

Lumens

158

pipe loop

160

Suction opening

162

Spring bearing

164

suction line

166

Connection

168

Suction device

170

pump

172

jet pump

174

Venturi nozzle

176

Compressed gas line

178

Valve

180

suction line

182

check valve

184

Liquid separator

186

Small parts basket

188

Pressure connection

190

Quick coupling

192

Compressed gas connection

194

Pressurization device

196

Compressed gas supply

198

junction

200

Compressed gas line

202

check valve

Claims (15)

1. A cleaning basket (120) for cleaning breathing apparatus (112), comprising at least one basket rack (140), furthermore comprising at least one mask holder (122) for holding at least one protective breathing mask (114) in the cleaning basket (120), furthermore comprising at least one suction element (156), wherein the suction element (156) has at least one suction opening (160), wherein the suction element (156) is configured to be charged with negative pressure,
   characterized in, that

   the suction element (156) is configured to extend into the protective breathing mask (114) held by the mask holder (122) and

   that the suction element (156) is configured to suck cleaning fluid out of at least one interior space (148) of the protective breathing mask (114) into the suction opening (160).
2. The cleaning basket (120) as claimed in the preceding claim, wherein the suction element (156) has at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a suction pipe with the at least one suction opening; a curved suction pipe with the at least one suction opening; a suction tube with the at least one suction opening; a U pipe with the at least one suction opening; a pipe loop; a disk-shaped suction element with the at least one suction opening; a spoon-shaped suction element with the at least one suction opening.
3. The cleaning basket (120) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the suction element (156) is configured to be at least partially flexible, wherein the suction element (156) has at least one flexible tongue for introduction into the interior space of the protective breathing mask (114), wherein at least one suction opening is introduced in the flexible tongue.
4. The cleaning basket (120) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the suction element (156) is connected to the mask holder (122).
5. The cleaning basket (120) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning basket (120) has at least one suction line (164), wherein the suction element (156) is fluidically connected to the suction line (164), and wherein the suction line (164) has at least one connection (166) for the connection of a suction device (168).
6. The cleaning basket (120) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning basket (120) furthermore has at least one pressure connection (188) which is connectable to at least one gas-conducting element (116) of the breathing apparatus (112), wherein the gas-conducting element (116) can be charged with compressed gas while the cleaning fluid is being applied to the breathing apparatus (112), wherein the cleaning basket (120) has a releasable compressed gas connection (192) for connecting the pressure connection (188) to a pressurization device (194) of a cleaning device (118).
7. A cleaning system (110) for cleaning breathing apparatus (112), comprising

   - at least one cleaning basket (120) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, and

   - at least one cleaning device (118), wherein the cleaning device (118) has at least one cleaning chamber for receiving the at least one cleaning basket (120), wherein the cleaning device (118) furthermore has at least one application device (136) for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus (112),

   wherein the cleaning system (110) furthermore has at least one suction device (168) which is connectable to the suction element (156) of the cleaning basket (120) and is configured for generating the negative pressure.
8. The cleaning system (110) as claimed in the preceding claim, wherein the cleaning basket (120) has a releasable connection (166) for connecting the suction element (156) to the suction device (168).
9. The cleaning system (110) as claimed in one of the preceding claims relating to a cleaning system (110), wherein the suction device (168) comprises at least one pump (170), wherein the pump (170) has at least one jet pump (172), wherein the jet pump (172) has at least one Venturi nozzle (174), wherein the cleaning device (118) has a compressed gas line (176) which is connected to the Venturi nozzle (174).
10. The cleaning system (110) as claimed in one of the preceding claims relating to a cleaning system (110), wherein the suction device (168) is configured to return cleaning fluid sucked out of the protective breathing mask (114) into a fluidic system of the cleaning device (118) .
11. The cleaning system (110) as claimed in one of the preceding claims relating to a cleaning system (110), wherein the suction device (168) has at least one liquid separator (184).
12. The cleaning system (110) as claimed in one of the preceding claims relating to a cleaning system (110), wherein the suction device (168) has at least one suction line (180), wherein the suction line (180) is connectable to a connection (166) of the cleaning basket (120).
13. The cleaning system (110) as claimed in one of the preceding claims relating to a cleaning system (110), wherein the cleaning device (118) has at least one controller (126) and is configured to carry out a cleaning program with at least two different program steps, wherein the controller (126) is configured, in at least one program step of the cleaning program, to activate charging of the suction element (156) with negative pressure such that penetrating cleaning fluid is sucked out of the at least one interior space (148) of the protective breathing mask (114) at least partially into the suction opening (160).
14. A method for cleaning breathing apparatus (112), comprising:

    a) providing at least one cleaning basket (120) as claimed in one of the preceding claims relating to a cleaning basket (120);

    b) fastening at least one protective breathing mask (114) of the breathing apparatus (112) to the at least one mask holder (122) of the cleaning basket (120);

    c) introducing the suction element (156) into at least one interior space (148) of the protective breathing mask (114) in such a manner that at least one part of the suction element (156) with the at least one suction opening (160) projects into the interior space (148);

    d) applying at least one cleaning fluid to the breathing apparatus (112); and

    e) charging the suction element (156) with negative pressure and sucking cleaning fluid out of the interior space (148) via the suction opening (160).
15. The method as claimed in the preceding claims, wherein the method furthermore comprises:
    f) charging at least one gas-conducting element (116) of the breathing apparatus (112) with compressed gas.

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