SK284746B6 - Suction device attachment for wet cleaning surfaces - Google Patents

Abstract

The attachment piece (1) for wet cleaning surfaces (2) especially vertical position (2) contains the fluid application device (3), which is position adjustable to the separately performed housing (15). In the housing (15) is creates, to the exhaust opening (21), in the crack form a suction channel (20), whereby the housing (15) covers the fluid application device (3) in an arc formation. The fluid application device is secured in the arc interior, to at least one slide (25), which penetrates the housing (15) of the exhaust flue (20) and on the upside of the housing (15) is equipped by the handle (26) for position adjustment of the fluid application device (3).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, which comprises a liquid applicator which is positionally adjustable relative to a separate housing.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Wet surface cleaning devices, in particular vertical window areas, are known in many embodiments. Known cleaning devices of this kind usually consist of a suction device which, in addition to the suction device, also contains a container for cleaning liquid. The cleaning liquid is supplied from the suction apparatus via a pressure line to the actual cleaning attachment from which it is applied to the surface to be cleaned by means of nozzles, bristles, sponges or the like. The deposited liquid is then again sucked off by a suction apparatus, which is most often provided with a suction mouth in the form of a slot, to which the suction channel is connected. These cleaning devices are usually designed as industrial devices and are accordingly bulky and expensive and also unsuitable for normal household use.

EP-0 243 323 discloses a cleaning apparatus in which a liquid applicator is supplied with a cleaning liquid, or in this case with a cleaning steam, by means of a pressure line. In this case, the liquid applicator is provided with a sponge for the application of the cleaning liquid to the surface to be cleaned, which inside the suction bell housing is pivoted into a working position about an axis parallel to the surface to be cleaned. Evenly with the longitudinal side of the sponge or its axis, and thus transversely to the usual direction of cleaning, a slot-shaped suction mouth is placed above the surface to be cleaned, which only rests on the surface to be cleaned with a sealing lip. The suction bell housing and suction mouth are connected to a suction channel, within which a pressure line for cleaning fluid supply is also located. Here, the cleaning attachment and the cleaning apparatus form a unit from a functional point of view and cannot be used alone.

Non-published WO 96/01614 discloses a vacuum cleaner for wet surface cleaning, which can advantageously also be used in the sense of the present invention as an illustrative device for suction devices per se, for example also as an illustrative device for domestic vacuum cleaners. It is essential, as well as here, that the pressure supply from the suction apparatus to the liquid applicator can be omitted and that the suction apparatus can also only be suctioned, i.e. it contains no reservoirs and pressure devices, in particular for the cleaning liquid. For this purpose, the liquid application device of the vacuum cleaner attachment is provided with its own cleaning liquid reservoir so that a separate supply of cleaning liquid is eliminated. The possibility of adjusting the position of the liquid applicator is further described in the cited document, which is achieved by the liquid applicator enveloping the suction channel housing with an annular connecting element and displaceably guided on the housing in the axial direction against the action of an internally located spring. suction channel housing. The uncovered line described is susceptible to pollution and, due to its good accessibility, also carries the risk of injury.

In the suction channel of the suction head there is furthermore a moisture absorbing filter which removes moisture from the sucking liquid-air mixture and accumulates this moisture. This equipment achieves a feature which is essential for the use of the vacuum cleaner in conjunction with domestic vacuum cleaners, i.e. the separation of the individual phases of the extracted liquid-air mixture from one another. This is necessary in the case of the use of conventional household vacuum cleaners with regard to their electric propulsion and the way of extraction for safety reasons. However, this phase separation, which is based on filtering, is in contrast to conventional suction technologies due to the high pressure drop across the filter. This drawback is particularly pronounced when a further gas-permeable membrane is used which still retains the liquid phase which passes when the storage capacity of the filter material in which the liquid phase is deposited is exceeded.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of these drawbacks, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved construction of a vacuum cleaner of this kind for wet cleaning surfaces so that they can be handled and operated more reliably, especially when used in conjunction with conventional household vacuum cleaners.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This problem is solved and the drawbacks of known vacuum cleaners of this kind are largely eliminated by the vacuum cleansing nozzle for wet surfaces, especially vertical surfaces, which comprises a liquid applicator which is positionally adjustable relative to a separate housing according to the invention, in that the casing is provided with a suction channel extending into the aperture in the form of a slot, the casing overlapping the liquid applicator which is disposed inside the arc on at least one sliding passage through the casing of the suction channel and equipped with a handle for adjusting the position of the liquid applicator. Thus, the liquid applicator is at least partially covered and hence also protected by an arc of the suction channel housing that is designed separately from the liquid applicator. Due to the separate construction of the suction channel housing and the liquid applicator, the liquid applicator also constitutes a substantially separate unit, which can be simply replaced by another or separated from the suction channel housing, for example to change the cleaning cloth, bristles or the like. Within the arc, that is, in the operating position between the surface to be cleaned and the suction channel that covers the liquid applicator, the liquid applicator is mounted on at least one displacement device. Optionally, the attachment may be a detachable connection or the pusher itself may be detached from the suction channel housing through which it passes, and on the top of the suction channel housing, the pusher is provided with a handle for adjusting the position of the liquid applicator. Thus, the various individual operating positions of the liquid applicator mentioned above are not adjusted by manipulating the rotary knobs or the like on the side of the vacuum attachment, as in EP-0 243 323, which substantially obstruct the window frame or corner. Similarly, compared to the ejection extension described in WO 96/01614, handling and reliability are greatly simplified.

Especially for household vacuum cleaners, their limited suction power must also be taken into account. Long exhaust ducts, such as hoses, and possible filtering devices represent additional aerodynamic resistances that further reduce suction power. The suction power of the suction nozzle can be further improved in combination with the aforementioned features in that the suction mouth is divided into individual suction sections which, in the direction of suction, enter into the suction mouth in relation to the cleaning liquid to be applied to the surface to be cleaned. common suction chamber.

Advantageously, a plurality of suction branches are connected to the suction chamber and are further associated in the suction direction into a common section of the suction channel. This equipment achieves a uniform velocity profile at the inlet to the suction mouth. This is also due to the fact that a plurality of suction branches which are connected to a common suction chamber achieve a uniform vacuum there. Further, in the direction of suction, the suction branches are then combined into a common cross section of the suction channel, which then terminates in the suction device.

To increase the suction power also contributes to the fact that the suction mouth defining the inner wall immediately and continuously passes into the sealing flap. These sealing flaps, which serve to draw down the cleaning fluid to be applied, are usually held in a U-shaped groove in the suction channel housing. As a result, there is a degree in the wall in which, depending on the circumstances, the evacuated water can accumulate during extraction.

A further increase in the speed of the exhaust air or of the water-air mixture is achieved in that the suction mouth is tapered into a suction nozzle with a width of up to 5 mm, preferably up to 2 mm, in cross-section opposite the suction channel section. roughly corresponds to its width. This equipment largely suppresses dripping from the suction mouth after the suction attachment or the suction apparatus has been disconnected, since when the suction liquid is precipitated, for example also in the area of the common suction chamber, this liquid will collect in the area of this cross-sectional change. The leakage of liquid through a suction nozzle or orifice with such a small width is almost eliminated due to the surface tension of the water droplets. In addition, the described equipment also achieves the fact that only very small solid bodies are sucked out, so that it is indeed justified if only the sucked-in air / air mixture is referred to.

As already indicated, it is contemplated that the position of the liquid applicator is changed, for example from an inactive position when the vacuuming attachment merely withdraws and / or draws liquid from the surface to be cleaned and no liquid is applied to the operating position when the applied liquid is sucked. and to a further position in which the cleaning liquid is only applied and there is no suction and / or removal of the cleaning liquid from the cleaning surface. In order to change the position of the liquid applicator, a guide is provided inside the arc in which there is a linearly displaceable liquid applicator in the displacement device. Despite the arc overlap of the specially designed suction channel housing through the liquid applicator, the linear displacement of the liquid applicator is preferred because the guide for such displacement is structurally simple.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the liquid applicator moves from the inactive position when it is retracted behind the suction mouth to the middle working position by the action of a spring, the liquid applicator is movable against the spring force in this intermediate position independently of the slider. the middle position by means of the slider is moved to a position in front of the suction mouth and where it is supported by the slider against the housing of the suction channel. Two sliders can be used, which are located transverse to the prevailing working direction and are connected to the ends of the liquid applicator.

Nevertheless, it is preferred to centrally locate a single slider, which then extends approximately centrally through the housing of the suction channel, with the slider and possibly the guide being positioned between the suction branches. The slider then does not pass through its own exhaust duct so that sealing problems or the like are eliminated.

In order to be a vacuum cleaner for the cleaning of wet surfaces, especially vertical surfaces, which comprises a liquid applicator and a suction channel housing which extends into a suction mouth, through which the suction device sucks a liquid-air mixture from the surface, also usable in conjunction with In the household, a solution is provided that between the suction mouth and the suction apparatus there is additionally a phase separation device in which the liquid-air mixture is distributed by centrifugal forces when the flow direction is diverted into the liquid phase and the gas phase. Due to this phase separation or phase separation, the suction device itself does not suck in any liquid. Thus, there are no problems with the presence of liquid in the electric suction apparatus, nor air-conditioning problems associated with the suction of liquids.

From the safety point of view, a vacuum cleaner for wet surface cleaning is also preferred, in which a valve against spray water is located downstream of the phase separation device for closing the cross section of the suction channel in the case of insufficient phase separation.

Conventional modern household vacuum cleaners are now equipped with overload protection, so closing the suction channel is no problem and the suction device is reliably protected against the ingress of liquids, even if larger amounts of water occur that exceed the performance of the appliance. phase separation. This problem is solved in one embodiment of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention in that in the phase separation device the separated water is collected in a container outside the suction channel. This measure avoids a narrowing of the cross-section of the suction channel and maintains low flow losses in the suction channel. The described solution has the further advantage that the liquid does not enter the actual suction channel when the liquid leaks from the container to the separated water.

A further refinement of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention is that the separated water container is operatively separable to the drawer attachment. Irrespective of the spatial position and the attachment to the support element of the suction attachment, the possibility exists that the full drained water container can be quickly replaced by an empty drained water container, or that the filled drained water container can be emptied and then reused, i.e. vacuum suction attachment. The described measure greatly facilitates the handling of the extension according to the invention.

In particular, this may in one preferred embodiment be arranged such that the separated water reservoir annularly forms and / or surrounds the suction channel and / or forms the outer wall of the suction nozzle. In this way, a construction is obtained which, with minimum dimensions, is characterized by a balanced and largely symmetrical geometry of the vacuum lance.

From the point of view of simple handling of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention, it is furthermore advantageous if the water separator is designed to be plugged into the vacuum cleaner attachment.

In a further refinement of the suction nozzle, the drained water container is disposable cartridge.

This is particularly advantageous if the separated water container according to another embodiment is filled with a liquid absorbing absorbent. This avoids splashing and pouring of the liquid inside the separated water container. Due to this equipment, even when entering the drained water tank, for example, due to improper handling of the suction lance, no liquid can escape and possibly enter the downstream suction channel.

Especially in this case, it is possible to further use the solution in that the drained water container is connected in the direction of suction downstream of the discharged liquid into the discharged water container connected to the suction channel with the suction channel. The suction channel is designed so that, without any liquid flowing through the suction channel, for example by filling the separating water container with a liquid absorbing material, a vacuum is created in the separating water container which promotes phase separation. At the same time, this equipment also prevents leakage of liquid from the inlet to the separated water tank.

The centrifugal forces required to separate the phases are usually generated by deflecting the flow direction, for example, so that the flow is deflected by the thrust faces, which results in the flow path inside the exhaust duct being substantially Z-shaped. then, the drained liquid can be placed in the reservoir. It is of course advantageous if said outlet is located at a location where the radius of the flow direction is the smallest.

However, it is particularly preferred that the centrifugal forces are induced by swirling the liquid-air mixture. That is, the flow of the aspirated liquid-air mixture is rotated. In conjunction with the movement of the mixture in the suction direction, it is achieved that the paths along which the particles move are in the form of helices. Due to the centrifugal forces, heavier particles, i.e. entrained water droplets, impurities or the like, then travel towards the outer perimeter and can be separated from the gas phase there.

Such a rotating flow component can be induced in the swirl section of the suction channel.

The aspirated liquid-air mixture is therefore introduced as tangentially as possible into the swirl section, which has a substantially rotationally symmetrical, preferably circular cross-section. Due to the negative pressure from the suction apparatus, the flow of the liquid-air mixture within the swirling section again obtains the movement component in the suction direction, but at the same time retains its rotational component. The phase separation device is thus designed as a cyclone separator known in the art for phase separation and which can also be used here.

In the matter of separating the liquid from the gas phase, it is further suggested that the swirling of the flow of the liquid-air mixture is achieved by guide vanes located on the outside of the nozzle body. The nozzle body is preferably designed to be hemispherical or mushroom-shaped, with the rounded outer side facing the general direction of flow. In particular, the rounded head of the nozzle body then has a smaller diameter compared to the suction channel.

The thus formed annular space is then partially obstructed by guide vanes located on the outside of the head of the jet body. These guide vanes cause radial acceleration of the incoming liquid-air mixture. In one embodiment of the vacuum lance, the guide vanes are oriented radially.

However, an embodiment of the vacuum adapter in which the guide blade is formed by a continuous helix has also proved to be advantageous. The helix is wrapped around the nozzle body and is preferably an integral part of the nozzle body. Also, this helical guide blade achieves radial acceleration of the incoming liquid-air mixture.

A further improvement of the suction nozzle according to the invention is that the guide blade in the radial direction is flush with the inner wall of the suction channel. It is thus ensured that, irrespective of the design of the guide vanes, the guide body fixation in the suction channel in the radial direction is achieved by means of these guide vanes, so that further fastening elements and means for positively positioning the nozzle body in the suction channel can be omitted.

In the case of the use of a guide blade in the form of a continuous through helix, it is further preferred that the helix is double-walled. The guide blade of the nozzle body in this case resembles a double-threaded thread.

It is furthermore advantageous if the nozzle body is provided with radial passages for the gas phase. The nozzle body, which is preferably rotationally symmetrical, is hollow for this purpose, and the suction takes place from the inside thereof. The radial passageways extend approximately transversely to the direction of the axis. By utilizing the swirling to achieve the radial acceleration forces and the sharp deviation of the flow direction in the region of the radial passages, which achieve the inertia forces, the liquid phase is separated from the gas phase.

In this respect, it is further proposed that the radial passages in the nozzle body are adapted to pass the gas phase from the outside of the nozzle body radially inwards. Due to the acceleration in the radial direction, it is achieved that the liquid phase is discharged through these radial passages into the annular space located outside the radial direction.

An embodiment in which the radial passages in the flow direction are located downstream of the guide vanes is advantageous. In this sense, a solution can also be used in that the part of the jet body in the axial direction behind the guide vanes has a slightly smaller diameter than the rounded part of the jet body carrying the guide vanes. Said radial passageways are located in the region of the transition between the two parts of the nozzle body.

In order to separate the residual moisture from the gas phase, the so-called nozzle-dispersed liquid droplets, the nozzle body is at least partially filled with liquid-absorbing material in the region upstream of the radial passages. This material, for example foam, is located behind the undercut shoulder in the inner space of the nozzle body. Due to the sharp deviation of the flow direction in the region of the radial passageways, the air flow inside the nozzle body deviates initially against the general flow direction. The rounded region of the head of the nozzle body then subsequently reverses in the general direction of flow. In the region of this reversal there is a liquid-absorbing material which removes any residual moisture from the gas phase.

The nozzle body is located upstream of the separated water container in the flow direction. The separated liquid phase is transported along the outer surface of the nozzle body further around the radial passages further downstream to be subsequently collected in a drained water reservoir located downstream of the nozzle body.

In order to prevent the mixing of the liquid phase from the gas phase at the transition point between the nozzle body and the separated water container, where these phases are to be mixed again, the nozzle body is spring pressed against the front side of the separated water container. The separated water reservoir and the nozzle body can thus be designed as separate parts, thus giving the possibility that the separated water reservoir can be designed as a replacement. The water separator is preferably a liquid-absorbent material, for example a sponge-separating material.

The phase separation can also be carried out in such a way that the liquid-air mixture with the rotating movement component in the suction channel impinges on a funnel-shaped constriction which almost fills the cross-section of the suction channel and which is further guided by the gas phase while the liquid phase is separated over the edge of the funnel-shaped constriction. and discharged, for example, to the aforementioned ring-shaped water reservoir. Due to centrifugal forces, heavier water droplets, entrained particles and the like will concentrate at the outer edge of the cross-section of the suction channel, from where they are discharged away through the funnel-shaped constriction. The funnel funnel dimensions must be adapted to the operating conditions already described, for example, the diameter of the suction channel, the flow rate, the proportion of the liquid phase in the liquid-air mixture and the like. In practice, it has proved to be useful if a clearance gap of several millimeters remains between the funnel-shaped constriction and the wall of the suction channel.

In a further embodiment, downstream of the phase separation device, there is also a water spray valve which is arranged such that a valve slider is disposed downstream of the flow direction within the suction channel, closing the cross section of the suction channel in the flow direction against the spring force. In this embodiment, the liquid present and the suction vacuum act on the slider in the same direction, thereby also ensuring a reliable closure of the slider. In this case, the spring can be designed as a tension or compression spring, and is then positioned in the upstream or downstream direction of the slider in engagement with the slider.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the slider is guided annularly in the tubular section and the gas phase passes through radially outwardly directed slider passages. These passages may simply engage the annular shoulder when the slider is closed and thus be closed, or may be located in a radial direction within the exhaust duct, the cross section of which is tapered by the annular shoulder.

A further preferred embodiment of the sliding extension according to the invention is that the water separator is filled with an absorbent increasing its volume with increasing humidity, and by this increasing the volume the water spray valve is closed. Said closure can be achieved, for example, by means of a simple rod or lever assembly, possibly also directly in such a way that one of the walls of the separated water tank is movable and bears against the water slider of the valve.

Especially in the annular design of the separated water reservoir, it is advantageous if the volume increase in the axial direction acts on the valve slider against splashing water such that when the absorbent capacity of the absorbent is exhausted, the valve slider closes against splashing water.

For example, the slider has the shape of a plate and is located transverse to the flow direction of the gas phase only.

Similarly, a cone-shaped slider is known per se, for example from so-called industrial vacuum cleaners, which are equipped for liquid evacuation.

As already mentioned, the water spray valve spring can be designed as a compression spring.

Another possibility is that said spring is designed as a tension spring.

The subject of the invention is also a vacuum cleaner which is provided with a cleaning cloth which is tensioned through a liquid applicator wetted from behind, wherein the cleaning cloth is provided at the edges with frame sidewalls for an exact fit to the liquid applicator. The cleaning cloth is usually removably attached to the holder to allow replacement of the cleaning cloth, for example when it is worn or dirty. There are various embodiments of shaped or animal fastening of the cleaning fabric. It is known, for example, that the edge of the cleaning fabric can be fastened with clips or adhesive tape. Furthermore, joints are known in which the cleaning fabric is suspended by bristles, as is the case, for example, with commercially available brushes. It is also known from the state of the art to make a connection by means of sewn bags, which are received by the corresponding tongues. The disadvantages of these solutions are, on the one hand, the relatively large dimensions of the fastening elements and, on the other hand, the strenuous handling of the fastening of the fabric, which may possibly result in an inaccurate position of the cleaning fabric. The embodiment with sewn bags or the like has the drawback of a very expensive sewing. Only the solution according to the invention offers the possibility of cost-effective, simple and quick attachment of the cleaning fabric. The fasteners themselves have small constructional dimensions, are lightweight and self-cleaning. As a result, the cleaning cloth can be replaced with one hand while holding the vacuum cleaner attachment with the other hand.

Said frame sidewalls are preferably designed as reinforced trims on a cleaning fabric. The scrubbing fabric is trimmed to the desired longitudinal edges after cutting to the desired dimensions.

A solution is possible in which the frame sidewalls are attached to the cleaning fabric. For example, the frame sidewalls may be sprayed or glued onto the cleaning fabric.

However, a particularly preferred embodiment is that the frame sidewalls are formed from a cleaning liquid. In this way, otherwise the usual flanging or sewing of the edges of the cleaning fabric is eliminated. The described solution can be further improved by spraying layers of plastic at the edges of the cleaning fabric, and this manufacturing operation can be carried out fully automatically. This embodiment is particularly advantageous when a plastic identical or similar to the mass of the cleaning fabric is used, since then the entire cleaning fabric can be easily recycled.

When attached to the liquid applicator, the cleaning fabric is applied or stretched to the pressing surface of the liquid applicator. For example, the reinforced trim or frame sidewalls of the cleaning fabric are allowed to snap into corresponding regions of the liquid applicator. In practice, this can be accomplished by providing the liquid applicator with groove recesses for receiving the frame sidewalls. These groove recesses preferably extend transversely to the usual working direction of the liquid applicator and are formed on both sides of the application or wetting surface.

For ease of handling, it is preferred that said groove recesses are undercut, thereby substantially simplifying the handling of the cleaning fabric. The reinforced trims or frame sidewalls are pressed into the recesses or grooves thus produced with a finger.

Another possible alternative is an embodiment in which the groove recesses are provided with resiliently pliable fingers for positioning the frame sidewalls precisely. Preferably, these resilient pliable fingers are distributed over the entire length of the groove recesses with uniform spacing. If the reinforced edging is made flexible, the fastening can also be achieved only by friction.

One further advantageous embodiment of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention consists in that the groove recess is provided with perpendicular sections perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, wherein the frame side panel alternately rests on one and the other side of the floor recess. In this way, the possibility of a simple and reliable fastening of the cleaning fabric, which is provided with frame sidewalls formed by reinforced beading, is achieved. The fastening is performed without the need for moving or additional elements by simply inserting the frame sidewall of the cleaning fabric into a groove recess consisting of said offset sections. During assembly, the frame sidewall or the reinforced edging is pressed into the groove recess, which consists of offset sections, slightly cranked. After insertion, the frame sidewall is straight again along its length. For this purpose, mutually matching receptacles for the frame side wall are provided in the individual recessed sections of the groove recess. On the inlet side, these offset sections are provided with ledges which alternately partially overlap through the receptacles for the frame sidewall, which is located below these ledges in the inserted position. In this way, the cleaning fabric is reliably fastened in the groove recess by the region of its frame sidewall or the reinforced trim. The groove recess itself does not contain any movable elements, so that the vacuum attachment can have a massive construction in this area. The frame sidewall or the reinforced bead, which can be formed both by sewing the edge of the cleaning fabric and by sewing, welding or spraying onto the cleaning fabric, is used as a spring for reversibly attaching the cleaning fabric to the vacuum cleaner attachment. This spring is therefore attached to the replaceable part, i.e. the cleaning cloth. Accordingly, when the cleaning fabric is changed, this elastic element is also replaced. The clamping force can be adjusted in almost any range by the dimensions and geometric proportions of the groove recess. It is also conceivable for the frame sidewall of the cleaning fabric to be slid into the groove recess provided with mutually offset sections, the individual offset sections being constructed so that the frame sidewall alternates slightly against one another with a slight undulation. the side of the offset sections. In addition, an animal effect is achieved.

It is further preferred that six to ten offset sections are provided along the length of the groove recess.

Further improvements in the groove recess are provided with a finger access opening to facilitate and facilitate disassembly of the cleaning fabric. Due to this access opening, the frame sidewall or the reinforced trim of the cleaning fabric can be gripped, whereby the frame sidewall can be easily pulled out through the mouth of the groove recess due to its elasticity.

The finger access opening extends through the side wall of the vacuum cleaner attachment. When removing the cleaning cloth, it is thus possible to grip the end of the frame sidewall.

Further preferred is an embodiment in which the finger access opening fully replaces a small portion of the length of the groove recess such that a portion of the length of the frame sidewall is fully exposed in the finger access opening.

Finally, it has proven to be particularly advantageous if the cleaning fabric is designed to be twice mirror-symmetrical. The cleaning fabric can then be attached to the liquid applicator in up to four different positions so that its cleaning capacity can be fully utilized.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention is further illustrated by the following non-limiting examples of embodiments thereof, which are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 shows an axial longitudinal section through a first embodiment of a vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention with flow ratios indicated to explain these ratios; FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the suction mouth of FIG. 1, FIG. 3 is a bottom view in the direction of the arrow III of FIG. 1, with the liquid applicator removed, FIG. 4 shows an axial longitudinal section of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention with the liquid applicator in the inactive position, FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the liquid delivery device of FIG. 4, FIG. 6 shows an axial longitudinal section through the vacuum attachment with the application device in the active position when the application liquid is also aspirated, FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the liquid delivery device of FIG. 6, FIG. 8 shows a closed water spray valve; FIG. Fig. 9 shows a liquid applicator in an operative position advanced in front of a suction mouth in which only a cleaning liquid is applied but not sucked; 10 shows a disposable cartridge, FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a container with a device for closing the valve against splashing water when the storage capacity of the absorbent mass in the container is exhausted; FIG. 12 is an axial longitudinal section through a region of the cartridge with a phase separation device upstream of the cartridge; FIG. 13 is a detailed top plan view of the cleaning fabric of the liquid applicator; FIG. 14 is a side view of the cleaning fabric; FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the area of the liquid applicator through which the cleaning fabric is stretched; FIG. 16 shows a section XVI XVI of FIG. 15, from which the attachment region of the cleaning fabric is apparent, FIG. 17 shows a side view of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention, FIG. 18 is a view corresponding to FIG. 15, but relates to a further embodiment of stretching the cleaning fabric; FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of the groove recess that serves to attach the cleaning fabric, the view in the direction of the arrow XIX in FIG. 18, FIG. 20 is a view corresponding to FIG. 19, but during insertion of the cleaning fabric, FIG. 21 shows a further illustration corresponding to FIG. 19, after the frame side of the cleaning fabric has been fully inserted into the groove recess, FIG. 22 is a section along line XXIIXXII of FIG. 21, FIG. 23 is a section along line XXIII - XXIII of FIG. 21, FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the groove recess area of the vacuum cleaner attachment with the frame sidewall of the cleaning fabric inserted; FIG. 25 is a view corresponding to FIG. 12, but relating to another embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In FIG. 1 shows the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 in a longitudinal section perpendicular to the surface to be cleaned 2, with the liquid applicator 3 in the working position to which it is elastically pressed.

The liquid applicator 2 is provided with its own container 4 for a cleaning liquid (not shown). Thanks to this equipment it is possible to discharge the pressure supply line for the cleaning liquid from the vacuum cleaner. Thus, the basic prerequisites are provided for the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 to be used, for example, with conventional household vacuum cleaners. The capillary device, which here consists of a row of bristles 5 extending into the container 4 and resting on the transverse plate 6, ensures by the capillary forces a slow, uniform transport of the cleaning liquid up to the surface to be cleaned. As a result, the row of bristles 5 thus positioned also has a good mechanical cleaning effect which is comparable to that of a scraper. The cleaning liquid, after leaving the capillaries between the individual bristles, wets the back side of the cleaning fabric 7, which is stretched through a row of bristles 5 perpendicular to the usual cleaning direction 8 indicated by a double arrow.

One edge of the cleaning fabric 7 is clamped in the clip 9 of the applicator 3 for liquid. The opposite edge of the cleaning fabric 7, for example a micro-fleece, is connected transversely to the cleaning direction 8 with the frame side panels 16, which here have a circular cross-section. The frame side panels 16 are snapped into the undercut recesses 17 in the housing of the liquid applicator 3.

The liquid applicator 3 shown in FIG. 1, shown in the operating position, in the direction of the bi-directional arrow 10, it is displaceable against the action of a spring 11, which here is designed as a compression spring and mounted on pin 12. On the opposite end, this spring 11 rests on a pin 13 on the opaque plate 14 of the suction channel housing 15 20th

An exhaust duct 20 is disposed within the housing 15, and exhaust duct 20 is also understood to mean the entire evacuation of the liquid-air mixture from the cleaned surface 2 from the exhaust port 21 through the suction hose 22 to a suction device not shown here, for example a conventional domestic vacuum cleaner. .

The suction mouth 21 has, as shown in FIG. 1, is substantially in the form of a slot and is disposed along its length parallel to the liquid applicator 3, i.e. across from the conventional cleaning direction 8.

The housing 15, in which the suction channel 20 extending into the slot-shaped suction mouth 21, extends over a liquid arc at an angle of approximately 70 °. The overlap of the sheath 15 may also be in the marginal areas transverse to the cleaning direction 8, but it is preferred that these areas are not overlapped and can possibly reach cleaning surfaces perpendicular to the cleaning surface 2, for example to a window frame or the like.

The liquid applicator 3 is attached within said arc to a centrally disposed slider 25 which extends through the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 and is designed as a handle 26 for adjusting the position of the liquid applicator 3 according to FIG. 4, 6 and 9. The slider 25 is substantially ribbon-shaped and has a 180 ° bend 27 so that the handle 26 can be compressed in the manner of a protruding leaf spring. By depressing the latch 28 from its locked position in the middle of the three recesses 29, it can then be moved within the groove 30 in the housing 15 of the suction channel 20. By engaging the latch 28 in one of the recesses 29, the slider 25 can be locked in one of three different positions.

In FIG. 4 is a handle 26 as compared to FIG. 1 shown in a rearwardly displaced position. Consequently, by means of the slider 25, the liquid applicator 3 is also moved against the action of the spring 11 to the inactive position in which it is retracted against the suction mouth 21. In this inactive position of the liquid applicator 3 only the suction mouth is in contact with the surface to be cleaned. 21, with its sealing flap 31. In this position, the sealing flap 31 can, for example, draw and / or suck off the cleaning liquid that has been applied to the surface to be cleaned 2.

However, the actual application of the cleaning liquid does not take place in this position of the application device 3 on the liquid.

In order to position the liquid applicator 3 against the action of the spring 11 on the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 in its inactive position, as shown in FIG. 4, the slide 25 of the liquid applicator 3 is provided with a carrier 32, here with a circular cross-section that extends transversely to the cleaning direction 8, see FIG. 5. The carrier 32 is mounted in a guide recess 33 in which it is otherwise freely movable, see also FIG. 6 and 7.

In the inactive position of FIG. 4 and 5, the gripper 32 engages the deflection surface 34 of the guide recess 33 and prevents the latch 28 from engaging the rear recess 29 from moving the liquid applicator 3, the slider 25 engaging the housing 15 of the suction channel 20.

By pressing the handle 26, the latch 28 in the rear recess 29 is released and the slider 25 can be moved towards the middle recess 29. As a result, the driver 32 leaves the bounding surface 34 and the liquid applicator 3 is moved to the intermediate working position FIG. 1 or FIG. 6. The carrier 32 is now located approximately in the middle of the guide recess 33, thereby allowing the liquid applicator 3 to be resiliently moved in the direction of the bi-directional arrow 10 but limited by the delimiting surfaces 34, 35. The slide 25 can be moved in the guide. For this purpose, the lateral areas of the slider 25 (not shown) can be guided in corresponding grooves 36 in the housing 15 of the suction channel 20.

Furthermore, inside said arc are also provided guides 37, 38 for the linear displacement of the applicator 3, which is controlled by the displacement 25. The guide 37 is formed by an extension 39 on the applicator 3, which is terminated by a sliding stone 40 with a circular cross section. linearly displaceable in the guide channel 44 of the housing 15 of the suction channel 20. Said guides 37 are preferably located transverse to the cleaning direction 8 with their ends in the direction of the longitudinal dimension of the liquid applicator 3. On the other hand, the guide 38 is preferably located in the middle, see also FIG. This guide is preferably formed by a mushroom-shaped head 41 with a hat 42 with a circular cross-section that extends into the undercut grooves 43 in the liquid applicator 3, see FIG. 7. The surface of the hat 42, the undercut groove 43, the guide recess 33 and the guide channel 44 extend in mutually parallel planes. As a result, in the central position of the guide 38, also, provided that the head 41 is rotationally symmetrical, a pivoting movement about its axis 45 is also possible. Said pivoting movement about the axis 45 is limited by abutment of the sliding blocks 40. shaped bearing surface.

Further displacement of the slider 25 from the position of FIG. 6 to the position shown in FIG. 9 results in the gripper 32 engaging the deflection surface 35 of the guide recess 33. The liquid applicator 3 is thus brought to a position in which it exits the suction mouth 21. If the latch 28 then snaps into the front recess 29, the applicator is supported. 3 to the liquid by means of a slide 25 on the casing 15 of the suction channel 20. Further displacement of the liquid applicator 3 can still be limited by the stops of the lines 37, 38. In this position, only the application of the liquid to the surface to be cleaned 2 is possible.

Referring to FIG. 1 to 3, a suction device is described in more detail below.

The outer side of the cross-section of the suction mouth 21 facing the surface to be cleaned is tapered against the downstream section 51 of the suction channel 20 into a suction nozzle 50 having a width of less than 5 mm, here approximately 1.5 mm to 2 mm. In the direction of suction, this cross-sectional narrowing has a length approximately equal to its width. Downstream of the suction nozzle 50 there is a first diverting of the flow direction of the aspirated liquid-air mixture, in the sealing flap 31 a corner 57 is formed for this purpose in which the flow direction changes. Thus, the sealing lip 31 extends through the section 51 of the suction channel 20, which extends to the suction nozzle 50, immediately and continuously into the inner wall 52 of the suction mouth 21 of the suction channel 20. Further, flow of the sucked liquid-air mixture is further 54 again diverted into the Z-shaped path before the liquid-air mixture enters the suction chamber 53. This deflection at 54, due to the knife-like faces 55, 56 and in conjunction with the shape of the suction nozzle 50, prevents the suction device from being disconnected. , such as a vacuum cleaner, dripping from the suction mouth 21.

The slot-shaped suction mouth 21 is divided into individual suction sections 60 in its longitudinal direction and thus across the cleaning direction 8, see also FIG. 3 and the deviating representation of FIG. 1 and 3, which is also slightly offset in the region of the suction mouth 21. Ribs 61 with different heights and different adjustment angles serve to divide them into individual suction sections 60. This angle of alignment opposite the vertical, that is to the side edges 62 of the suction mouth 21, increases. In addition, the length of the suction sections 60 also increases towards the outward direction 8.

These measures ensure uniform suction throughout the length of the suction mouth 21. Thus, the ribs 61 define a plurality of sections 51 of the suction channel 20 that open into the common suction chamber 53. More, two suction branches 63, are connected to this common suction chamber 53. 64, which are idealized here by only raising the paths 65 of the aspirated liquid-air mixture. The paths 65 and suction branches 63, 64 are further associated in the exhaust direction indicated by the arrow 66 at a location 67 to a common cross section of the exhaust duct 20.

Since the slider 25 in the exemplary embodiment extends through the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 towards its mouth 21 approximately centrally, the slider 25 and here the guide 38 is located between the suction branches 63, 64. FIG. 3, where the liquid applicator 1 is not shown, the head 41 of the guide 38 located on the axis 68 is evident. It is also evident that the central location of the pin 13 for the spring 11 is stationary against the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 on the support plate 14. Said pin 13 is simultaneously located between the grooves 36 for lateral guidance of the slider 25.

A phase separation device 70 is located downstream of the junction of the suction branches 63, 64 in the direction of suction indicated by the arrow 66 and is located here in the suction head 1, i.e. between the suction mouth 21 and the suction suction device not shown here. for example a vacuum cleaner, see also FIG. 4. The phase separation device 70 divides the liquid-air mixture into a liquid and a gaseous phase, in this case by centrifugal forces due to a deflection of the flow direction, which can be achieved, for example, by opposing Z-shaped obliquely in the suction channel 20 surfaces 55, 56 which act as reflective walls. Here, however, the centrifugal forces exerted by the swirling of the liquid-air mixture stream. In the swirl section 71, a liquid-air mixture is aspirated, as also indicated by arrow 66 in FIG. 3, introduced into the swirling section 71 across its longitudinal axis 72. The movement of the aspirated liquid-air mixture thus obtains a rotating component, which is likewise produced in known cyclone separators in a similar manner. Thus, from the end of the swirl section 71 of the exhaust duct 20, a rotating liquid-air mixture emerges in which heavier particles, i.e. liquid phase particles, move radially outwardly, i.e. to the funnel-shaped constriction 73, which fills almost the entire cross-section of the exhaust duct. 20. Only the gas phase is guided through the interior 74 of the funnel-shaped constriction 73. The liquid phase is separated and discharged through the rim 75 of the funnel-shaped constriction 73 into the container 76. This container 76 has a rotationally symmetrical shape and surrounds the inner space 74, which is part of the suction channel 20. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the interior 74 and the reservoir 76 are provided with a common partition 77. The reservoir 76 is closed by a bottom 78 which also rests on the housing 15 of the exhaust duct 20. A star support 80 is indicated in the region of the inlet 79 to the reservoir 76. the anti-splash sheet 81 with annularly extending through holes 82 that acts as a valve when the aspirated cleaning fluid accumulates in the rear portion 83 of the cartridge 76. In addition, the anti-splash sheet 71 is also elastically expanded against the casing 15 of the exhaust duct 20. As a rule, the container 76 is preferably still filled with a liquid-absorbing material in which these liquids are deposited, so that the cleaning liquid is bound and largely contained in the container 76. this prevents it from leaking from the cartridge 76, for example in the case of improper handling.

The reservoir 76 is connected to the suction channel 20, which in this case is formed by the interior space 74 of the funnel-like constriction 73, in the direction of suction after the liquid inlet 79 through suction channels 84, 85. Thus, a vacuum is created inside the reservoir 76. 71 supports phase separation.

In FIG. 10, an alternative embodiment of the cartridge 90 is shown which is operably coupled to the vacuum cleaner attachment 91 during operation. Such a design will substantially facilitate the emptying of the cartridge 90. For this purpose, the vacuum cleaner attachment 91 needs to be disconnected from the suction hose 22, which is simply possible by means of a locking device 92. The cartridge 90 having a cross-sectional shape can then simply be slid on a wall 94 which defines an inner space 93 of the funnel, where the container 90 is then positioned between the wall 94 and the wall 95 of the suction channel housing 96. In particular, if the container 90 is filled with a liquid soaking material, it may be a disposable cartridge.

In the direction of suction, downstream of the phase separation device 70, there is also a water spray valve 100 which closes the suction channel 20 inside the suction nozzle 1. If suddenly sucking in a larger amount of liquid, the power of the phase separation device 70 may be insufficient. In the channel 20, a liquid-air mixture with a high liquid phase content is sucked from the phase separation device 70 in the suction direction. In order to prevent this liquid-air mixture from entering the suction hose 22 into a suction device (not shown), for example a dust vacuum cleaner, the valve 100 closes the cross-section of the suction channel 20 with a plate-shaped slider 101. 8 and 9. This is counteracted by the action of the compression spring 102, the resilient force of which determines the closing of the slider 101 when a larger amount of liquid is present.

Alternatively, it is also possible to use a water spray valve with, for example, a ball slider in an embodiment known from so-called industrial dust extractors. Here, the plate-shaped slider 101 is guided axially in the tubular section 103 and, in its open position, passes the exhaust air flow through the passages 104 at its periphery. In the closed position shown in FIG. 8, the passages 104 are closed by an annular shoulder 105 which reduces the cross-section of the suction channel 20 and which is also supported by the compression spring 102. The plate-shaped slider 101 located between the passages 104 thus closes the free cross-section of the suction channel 20 stocking 105.

Instead of a compression spring 102, a plurality of tension springs may be used, which are located between the projection 106 which is fixedly connected to the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 and the star-shaped supports 107 of the slider 101.

In another embodiment of FIG. 11, a water spray valve 110 is shown which has yet another function. The container 111 is filled with a liquid-absorbing material, an absorbent 112, which increases in volume as it receives the liquid. However, in the space between the radial walls 113, 114, the volume of the absorbent 112 can only increase in the axial direction, the container 111 being designed in two parts in the axial direction for this purpose. As a result, the front seating of FIG. 11 of the left half 115 of the cartridge 111 onto the suction channel housing 117 and as the volume of the absorbent 112 increases in the axial direction, the right half 116 of the cartridge 111 will move to the right. The bottom 118 of the cartridge 111 will carry the slider 119 of the valve 110 against the splashing water by the slider 120 toward the closed position as it moves. With the corresponding adjustment of the shutter slider 119 of the valve 110 against the splashing water and the increase in the volume of the absorbent 112 due to liquid intake here in the axial direction, the valve 110 will then close against the splashing water when the storage capacity of the absorbent 112 is exhausted. In this case, after the release device 92 has been released, the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 can be removed and the container 111 with exhausted storage capacity of the absorbent 112 contained therein, which can be designed for single use, can be replaced by a new container 111. Otherwise only the absorbent 112 needs to be replaced. which may optionally be reusable, i.e., regenerate and / or dry for reuse.

The connection of the suction nozzle 1 to the suction hose 22 is carried out in a conventional manner. A suction hose 22, such as a conventional household vacuum cleaner, is provided at the end with, for example, an injection sleeve 125, which is locked in the connection flange 126. A sealing ring 127 is disposed between this connection flange 126 and the suction hose housing 125. also facing the seat 128 of the valve 110 against splashing water. After pressing the button 130, which is pivotable about the axis 129, against the action of the leaf spring 131, the locking catch 132 is released and the vacuum adapter 1 can then be detached from the suction hose 22.

It is a matter for the skilled person to decide whether the spray water valve 100 will be a structural part of the suction hose 22 or the suction nozzle 1. Depending on this, the connection or splitting construction is carried out, since the two possible solutions are practically applicable.

In FIG. 12, an alternative embodiment of a phase separation device 70 is shown. Here, upstream of the container 90, which is filled with the liquid-absorbing material, is a downstream jet body 150. This jet body 150 is substantially mushroom-shaped and has a rounded first hemispherical portion 151 with its rounded side facing the general direction of flow. The downstream second portion 152 is cylindrical in shape and is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the suction channel 20. The diameter of the second cylindrical portion 152 is slightly smaller than the largest diameter of the first hemisphere portion 151.

The nozzle body 150 is hollow, and its first hemispherical portion 151 is provided on its outside with radially oriented guide vanes 153 whose tear edges 154 terminate at the level of the passage of the first portion 151 into the second portion 152 of the nozzle body 150.

In the region of the step transition from the first part 151 to the second part 152 of the nozzle body 150, radial passages 155 are formed which extend substantially transversely to the axial direction.

Because the liquid phase in the exhaust air stream has a higher inertia and specific gravity than the gas phase, there is a swirl in the area of the guide vanes 153 and a sharp diversion due to radial passages 155 to separate the liquid phase from the gas phase. The liquid phase thus separated is then introduced into and stored in the reservoir 90. Any residual moisture, the so-called entrained drops of liquid, is then filtered by the liquid-absorbing material 156, for example a sponge, located inside the first portion 151 of the hemisphere-shaped jet body 150. To prevent the separate liquid and gaseous phases from being mixed again in the region of transition from the nozzle body 150 to the cartridge 90, the nozzle body 150 is pressed against the front face 157 of the cartridge 90. This is accomplished by a compression spring 158 which abuts the region of the suction channel 20 and with its other end on the faces of the guide vanes 153 facing this compression spring 158.

Due to the described alternative embodiment of the phase separation device 70, a position-independent liquid phase separation is achieved in a minimal design space. Thus, a number of advantages in terms of function and handling are achieved, since no electrical energy and thus no energy converters such as motors or electromagnets are required for phase separation. In addition, the phase separation device 70 thus constructed does not contain any moving parts.

An alternative embodiment of the cleaning fabric 160 is shown in detail in Figures 13 and 14. This cleaning fabric 160 is trimmed to the desired dimensions at its two opposite edges 161 and 162 with reinforced flanges 163, which are frame sidewalls.

16. The thickened selvedges 163 may, for example, be sprayed or glued onto the cleaning fabric 160. In the illustrated embodiment, a preferred embodiment is shown in which the frame sidewalls 16 and / or reinforced skirts 163 are formed from the material of the cleaning fabric 160. Thus, otherwise conventional flanging or other edge reinforcement 161,162 of the cleaning fabric 160 is omitted. 163 has a circular cross-section, wherein the cleaning fabric 160 extends between the thickened skins 163 in the radial direction of the thickened skins 163.

As already mentioned, the cleaning fabric 160 is stretched through the liquid applicator 3, which is moistened from the rear side, see FIG. For this purpose, the cleaning fabric 160 is applied to the application surface of the liquid applicator 3, and the reinforced bands 163 snap into grooves 164 and 165 formed on both sides of the liquid applicator 3. These groove recesses 164, 165 are designed as undercut grooves so that the thickened flanges 163 are firmly attached thereto. For this purpose, the groove recesses 164, 165 are provided at least on one edge with a projecting protrusion 166, 167. The thickened skirts 163 are pressed into the groove recesses 164, 165 to secure the cleaning fabric 160. During this pressing, the projections 166 must be overcome. 167 of these groove recesses 164, 165, which assume that the reinforced flanges 163 are resilient. Upon pressing, the protrusions 166, 167 engage the thickened skirts 163, thereby reliably securing the position of the cleaning fabric 160 on the liquid applicator 3.

In one alternative embodiment, the groove recesses 164,165 may be provided with resilient fingers to form the fit of the thickened flanges 163. Further, it is conceivable that an attachment of the thickened flanges 163 in the groove recesses 164, 165 will only be ensured by friction, provided that the thickened flanges 163 are resiliently flexible.

As can be seen in particular from FIG. 15, only a small portion of the total area of the cleaning fabric 160 is used in the application of the vacuum cleaner attachment. This cleaning area 168 is shown in FIG. 13, which is a plan view of the cleaning fabric 160, shown in shaded pattern. In order to take full advantage of the cleaning capacity of the cleaning fabric 160, the cleaning fabric 160 is twice mirror-symmetrical, so that it can be attached to the liquid applicator 3 in four different positions.

The thickened flanges 163 and the groove recesses 163, 164 into which the thickened flanges 163 fit can, in contrast to the described embodiments, also have other cross-sectional shapes. For example, it is conceivable that the cross-sections will have the shape of a groove and tongue in the form of a dovetail joint.

Further, it is conceivable that the reinforced skirts 163 will be formed on the entire periphery, i.e. on all sides of the cleaning fabric 160. These additional reinforced skirts 163 are attached to the liquid applicator 2 when the cleaning fabric 160 is attached to the liquid applicator 2. 3, it has proven to be particularly advantageous if the further reinforced flanges form a resilient connection between the reinforced flanges 163 which are pressed into the groove recesses 164, 165.

Due to the described embodiment of the cleaning fabric 160, a cost-effective, simple and quick attachment of the cleaning fabric 160 to the liquid applicator 3 is achieved. The mounting has small constructional dimensions and is also self-cleaning. The cleaning cloth 160 can be replaced by hand, no tools required. The cleaning cloth 160, together with the fastening elements consisting of the reinforced flanges 163, can also be washed.

If the cleaning fabric 160 is provided with a reinforced plastic bead 163 sprayed on the circumference, expensive sewn flanges and the like will be dispensed with. The production of the cleaning fabric 160 can then be fully automated. It has proved to be a particular advantage that the use of the same or similar materials for the cleaning fabric 160 and the reinforced trim 163 also achieves a good recyclability of the cleaning fabric 160.

In FIG. 17 to 24, an alternative embodiment of the attachment of the cleaning fabric 160 is shown. This cleaning fabric 160 is tensioned through the liquid applicator 3 in the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 and is moistened from behind by the liquid applicator 3, see FIG. 18. For this purpose, the cleaning fabric 160 is applied to the application surface of the liquid applicator 3, and subsequently the frame sidewalls 16 of the cleaning fabric 160, which are embedded in the reinforced flanges 163, are pressed into the groove recesses 164, 165 formed on both sides. of the liquid applying device 3.

The groove recesses 164, 165 are designed such that each of these groove recesses 164, 165 is provided perpendicularly along its length perpendicular to the longitudinal axis x-x of the groove recess 164, 165 with offset sections 169, 170. In the illustrated embodiment, it is along the length of the groove recesses 164, 165 formed by eight offset sections 169, 170.

Referring to FIG. 19 to 24, an exemplary embodiment of the groove recess 164. Each offset section 169, 170 of the groove recess 164 consists essentially of an inlet region 171 and 172, respectively, facing the mouth of the groove recess 164, and a gripping region 173 and 174 at the bottom of the groove. recesses 164, wherein the attachment regions 173,174 have in comparison with the entry regions

171, 172 enlarged cross-section. The alignment is designed such that the attachment areas 173,174 on one side in alignment extend into respective entry areas 171,

172, due to the increased cross-section of the attachment areas

173, 174 bridges are formed between these gripping areas 173, 174 and their respective mouths of the groove recess 164, which protrude into the respective inlet areas 171, 172, extending into the projections 175, 176.

The offset portions 169, 170 are alternately formed along the length of the groove 164 so that parallel to the longitudinal axis x-x of the groove 164 and the longitudinal x-x-directed projections 175, 176 form a slot-through opening along the length of the groove 164.

177. The individual attachment regions 173, 174, when viewed in the direction of the length of the groove recess 164, form a receptacle 178 which is approximately adapted to the contour of the intermediate frame shafts 16 or the reinforced flanges 163, see FIG. 22 and 23.

The thickened skirt 163 is pushed into the groove recesses 164 or 165 when the cleaning fabric 160 is installed. Due to the offset position of the individual offset sections 169 and 170, the thickened skirt 163 can be slightly deformed. Thus, the thickened skirt 163 is crimped crimped, corresponding to the inlet regions 171, 172 of the offset portions 169, 170. Subsequently, the thickened skirt 163 in the region of the recess 178 is automatically sprung into a straight shape in the direction of the longitudinal axis x - x. The cleaning cloth 160, which follows the reinforced trim 163, passes through the slit through hole 177.

Due to the embodiment of the invention, it is possible to simply attach the cleaning fabric 160, which is provided with reinforced flanges 163, by simply inserting it into the groove recess 164 with its offset sections 169, 170 spaced along its length, without requiring any moving or accessory components. . The thickened selvedges 163 may be formed from the material of the cleaning fabric 160 itself and stitched. Furthermore, it is possible that the thickened skirts 163 are sewn, welded or sprayed onto the cleaning fabric 160.

The thickened skirt 163 is straight in the inserted state, but must be slightly deformed during assembly so that it cannot fall out of the groove 164 spontaneously.

It has proven to be advantageous here that the thickened skirt 163 acts as a spring attached to the replacement part, i.e. the cleaning fabric 160. The clamping force can be adjusted to virtually any extent by the dimensions of the groove recesses 164, 165. no movable or flexible components, the region of these groove recesses 164, 165 can be of a massive construction.

The offset portions 169, 170 of the groove recesses 164, 165 can alternatively also be designed such that after the introduction of the reinforced selvedge 163, which can also be accomplished by lateral insertion, the reinforced selvedge 163 remains slightly wavy and follows the contour of the offset portions 169, 170. As a result, the cleaning fabric 160 is additionally clamped in the region of the thickened trim 163.

To facilitate easy disassembly of the cleaning fabric 160, the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 is provided with a finger access aperture 179. This finger access aperture 179 is formed in the region of the side wall 180 of the extension 1 and extends through the side wall 180. This finger access aperture 179 replaces a small portion of the length of the groove recess 164 or 165, so that the finger access aperture 179 is completely the exposed portion of the length of the frame sidewall 16 or the reinforced trim 163 of the cleaning fabric 160. Thus, the exposed portion can be easily gripped. Thereafter, the cleaning fabric 160 is removed by either pulling the thickened skirts 160 from the groove recesses 164, 165 in the direction of the longitudinal axis x - x of the groove recesses 164, 165 or by pulling the thickened skins 163 from the groove recesses 164, 165 through the inlet regions 171, 172. which are formed on offset sections 169,170.

In FIG. 25 another alternative embodiment of the phase separation device 70 of FIG. 12. The nozzle body 150, which is also upstream here of the reservoir 90, which is filled with liquid-absorbing material, is also provided with guide vanes 153, which are here, however, designed as continuous helices. The guide vanes 153 thus form a two-threaded thread which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the suction channel 20. The nozzle body 150 has a rounded hemispherical shape, with the rounded side of its head facing the general direction of flow. The diameter of the nozzle body 150 is smaller than the diameter of the suction channel 20 in which the nozzle body 150 is located.

The guide vanes 153, which are helically disposed around the nozzle body 150, are aligned in a radial direction with the inner wall of the suction channel 20, and in a preferred embodiment in which the nozzle body 150 is integrally formed with the guide vanes 153, the guide vanes 153 provide radial fixation of the nozzle body 150 in the suction channel 20.

The nozzle body 150, which is provided with guide vanes 153, is positioned downstream of the cartridge 90 in the flow direction. Thus, a free space 200 is created between the nozzle body 150 and the cartridge 90.

Through the helical guide vanes 153, the liquid phase is reliably separated from the gas phase, and the separated liquid phase is then introduced into the container 90 and stored therein 90. The gas phase, which is dehumidified by the described embodiment of the guide vanes 153, flows after leaving guide vanes 153 through clearance 200.

Also in this case, it is conceivable to have an embodiment in which the nozzle body 150 is constructed similarly to FIG. 12, a cylindrical section whose diameter is smaller than the largest diameter of the hemisphere 150 is connected thereto. This cylindrical section is provided transversely to the axial direction with radial passageways through which a gas phase separated from the liquid phase passes. A sponge or similar mass may be disposed within the nozzle body 150 within its head region.

The features of the invention described in the foregoing description and claims and illustrated in the drawings may be relevant to the practice of the invention both individually and in any combination. All the features described are important to the invention. The scope of the invention is also determined by the content of the respective priority application, the full content of which is hereby claimed.

Claims (50)

A vacuum cleaner attachment (1) for wet cleaning surfaces (2), in particular vertical surfaces (2), comprising a liquid applicator (3) which is adjustable in position in a separate housing (15), characterized in that: 2. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that a suction channel (20) extending into the slot-like suction mouth (21) is provided in the housing (15), the housing (15) overlapping the liquid applicator (3) which is mounted on the at least one slide (25). ), which passes through the housing (15) of the suction channel (20) and is provided on the upper side of the housing (15) with a handle (26) for adjusting the position of the applicator (3) to the liquid. Vacuum attachment according to claim 1, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) is divided transversely to its longitudinal direction into individual suction sections (60) which open into a common suction chamber (53) in the suction direction. Vacuum attachment according to claim 2, characterized in that a plurality of suction branches (63, 64) are connected to the suction chamber (53), which are further associated in the suction direction into a common section (67) of the suction channel (20). ). Vacuum adapter according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) defining the inner wall (52) immediately and continuously passes into the sealing flap (31). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) is tapered into a suction nozzle (50) with a width of up to 5 mm, preferably up to 5 mm, preferably up to a section (51) of the suction channel (20). 2 mm, wherein the length of the suction nozzle (50) in the suction direction approximately corresponds to its width. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to Claim 1, characterized in that a guide (37, 38) is arranged inside the arc, in which the slider (25) has a linearly displaceable liquid applicator (3). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liquid applicator (3) is provided with a spring (11) for moving the liquid applicator (3) from the inactive position when it is pulled behind the suction mouth (21). ), to a central operating position, wherein the liquid applicator (3) is independently movable from the slider (2) movably against the force of the spring (11) and is displaceably positioned by the slider (25) from this middle position to the position and where it is supported by the slider (25) against the housing (15) of the suction channel (20). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the slider (25) passes through the housing (15) of the suction channel (20) centrally and that the slider (25) and possibly the guide (38) are located between the suction branches (15). 63, 64). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a phase separation device (70) is disposed between the suction mouth (21) and the suction apparatus, in which the liquid-air mixture is distributed by centrifugal forces when the flow direction is diverted into liquid. phase and gaseous phase. Vacuum attachment according to claim 9, characterized in that a downstream valve (100) is provided downstream of the phase separation device (70) for closing the cross-section of the suction channel (20) in the case of insufficient phase separation. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims 9 and 10, characterized in that the phase separation device (70) is provided outside the suction channel (20) with a separating water tank (76, 90). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 11, characterized in that the separated water container (90) is operatively separable from the drawer attachment (91). Vacuum lance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the separated water container (76) annularly forms and / or surrounds the suction channel (20) and / or forms the outer wall of the lance lance (1). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the separated water container (90) is designed to be plug-in to the extendable attachment (91). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the separated water container (90, 111) is designed as a disposable cartridge. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 15, characterized in that the separated water container (111) is filled with a liquid-absorbing absorbent (H2). The extension according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the separated water container (76) is connected to the suction channel (84, 85) with the suction channel in the suction direction downstream of the discharged liquid inlet (79). (20). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the phase separation device (70) is designed as a cyclone separator. Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the phase separation device (70) is provided with guide vanes (153), which are located outside the flow body (150) in the phase separation device (70). . Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 19, characterized in that the guide blade (153) has the shape of a continuous helix. Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims 19 and 20, characterized in that the guide vane (153) is aligned in the radial direction with the inner wall of the suction channel (20). Vacuum attachment according to claim 20, characterized in that the continuous helix of the guide blade (153) is double-ended. A vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 19, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is provided with radial gas phase passages (155). A vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 23, characterized in that the radial passages (155) in the nozzle body (150) are adapted to pass the gaseous phase from the outside of the nozzle body (150) radially inwards. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims 23 and 24, characterized in that the radial passages (155) in the nozzle body (150) are located downstream of the guide vanes (153). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims 19 to 25, characterized in that the flow body (150) is at least partially filled with liquid-absorbing material (156) in the region upstream of the radial passages (155). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims 19 to 26, characterized in that the flow body (150) is placed upstream of the separated water container (90). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims 19 to 27, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is pressed by a spring (158) to the front side (157) of the water separator (90). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a funnel-shaped constriction (73) is provided in the suction channel (20) for guiding the gas phase and for separating the liquid phase over the edge (75) of the funnel-shaped constriction (73). almost fills the cross section of the suction channel (20). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a valve slider (101) is arranged transverse to the flow direction inside the suction channel (20) and closes the cross section of the suction channel in the direction of flow against the spring force (102). channel (20). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 30, characterized in that the slider (101) is guided annularly in the tubular section (103) and the gas phase passes through radially outwardly directed passages (104) of the slider (101). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the water separator (111) is filled with an absorbent (112) increasing its volume with increasing humidity, and by this increasing the volume the water spray valve (110) closes. Vacuum attachment according to claim 32, characterized in that the separated water container (111) has an annular design and an increase in the volume of the absorbent (112) in the axial direction to close the valve (110) against splashing water. Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the slider (101) has the shape of a plate. Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the slider (101) is conical in shape. Vacuum attachment according to claim 30, characterized in that the spring (102) is designed as a compression spring. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 30, characterized in that the spring (102) is designed as a tension spring. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is provided with a cleaning cloth (7, 160) which is tensioned through a liquid applicator (3) which is wetted from behind, wherein the cleaning cloth (7, 160) is provided on the edges with frame sidewalls (16) for precise fit on the liquid applicator (3). Vacuum attachment according to claim 38, characterized in that the frame sidewalls (16) are designed as reinforced beadings (163). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims 38 and 39, characterized in that the frame sidewalls (16) are attached to the cleaning fabric (7, 160). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims 38 to 40, characterized in that the frame sidewalls (16) are formed of a cleaning fabric (160). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liquid applicator (3) is provided with groove recesses (17, 164, 165) for receiving the frame side members (16). 43. The vacuum cleaner attachment of claim 42, wherein the groove recesses (164, 165) are undercut. Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims 42 and 43, characterized in that the groove recesses (164, 165) are provided with resiliently pliable fingers for positioning the frame side members (16) in a precise manner. Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims 42 to 44, characterized in that the groove recess (164, 165) is provided with perpendicular sections (169, 170) perpendicular to its longitudinal axis (x-x), wherein the frame sidewall (16) alternately engages one side and the other side of the groove recess (164, 165) alternately. Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims 42 to 45, characterized in that six to ten offset sections (169, 170) are formed along the length of the groove recess (164, 165). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims 42 to 46, characterized in that the groove recess (164, 165) is provided with a finger access opening (179). 48. The vacuum cleaner attachment of claim 47, wherein the finger access opening (179) extends through a side wall (180) of the vacuum cleaner attachment (1). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims 47 and 48, characterized in that the finger access opening (179) fully replaces a small part of the length of the groove recess (164, 165) so that in the access opening (179) a portion of the length of the frame sidewall (16) is fully exposed to the finger. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning fabric (160) is designed to be twice mirror-symmetrical.