EP3212341B1 - High-pressure cleaning system and a method for operating a high-pressure cleaning system - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a high-pressure cleaning system, comprising a high-pressure cleaning device with a high-pressure pump for increasing the pressure of a cleaning liquid and two or more different discharge units for discharging the cleaning liquid, which can optionally be brought into fluid connection with a pump outlet of the high-pressure pump, the discharge units being connected to an operating unit of the high-pressure cleaning system can be connected or an operating unit is arranged on at least one discharge unit.

The invention also relates to a method for operating a high-pressure cleaning system.

High-pressure cleaning systems with a high-pressure cleaning device and an operating unit as well as a discharge unit held thereon and which can be brought into fluid connection with a pump outlet of the high-pressure pump are in the DE 10 2006 009 855 A1 , of the US 2013/0214059 A1 and in the U.S. 5,381,962 described.

The US 2006/0108449 A1 describes a high-pressure cleaning device and a discharge unit on which a plurality of nozzles with different cross-sections can be optionally arranged.

Also in the DE 20 2013 101 730 U1 it is described that different nozzles can optionally be connected to a discharge unit. Different pump outlet pressures can be set on the high-pressure cleaning device.

In the case of high-pressure cleaning systems, it is known that a plurality of discharge units are provided, which can be optionally connected to the operating unit and thereby brought into fluid connection with the high-pressure pump. Discharge units are also already known on which a respective operating unit is arranged so that the operating unit can be exchanged together with the discharge unit by a user and the desired discharge unit can be brought into fluid connection with the high pressure pump. Depending on the application, in particular the type and condition of the object to be cleaned and the type of cleaning (e.g. rough cleaning, abrasive cleaning, foam cleaning ...), the user selects the suitable discharge unit in order to achieve the best possible cleaning result. Accordingly, the two or more discharge units differ from one another in terms of their discharge characteristics, for example a different outlet pressure of the cleaning liquid, a different jet shape, etc. It is desirable here that the object to be cleaned is not damaged.

The object of the present invention is to provide a high-pressure cleaning system of the type mentioned at the outset which can be handled in a simpler manner.

This object is achieved in a generic high-pressure cleaning system according to the invention in that the high-pressure cleaning system comprises an input unit via which at least one conveying parameter can be specified by a user, the at least one conveying parameter being set according to the specification by a control unit of the high-pressure cleaning system coupled to the input unit, and wherein the high-pressure cleaning system comprises an output unit which is coupled to the control unit and at which, depending on the specification of the user, an indication is provided which comprises a recommendation of at least one discharge unit.

In the high-pressure cleaning system according to the invention, an input unit is provided. The user can specify at least one delivery parameter. Depending on the specification by the user, the high-pressure cleaning device is set according to the specification of the user, in particular by setting an operating point of its high-pressure pump. The user can, for example, specify the at least one conveying parameter depending on the type and / or the nature of the object to be cleaned and, alternatively or additionally, depending on the desired cleaning process. The output unit can be used to provide the user with, for example, visual or acoustic information as to which discharge unit should preferably be used for a cleaning process. Taking into account the specification of the at least one conveying parameter by the user, it is possible to recommend the use of a discharge unit to the user. The note can include the recommendation of more than just one discharge unit. The information can include, for example, that a certain discharge unit requires a minimum pressure as a conveying parameter so that a good cleaning result can be achieved. If, for example, a corresponding pressure or pressure range is specified by the user as the conveying parameter, the corresponding discharge unit can be recommended for use by the control unit. If, for example, a volume flow of the cleaning liquid is specified as the delivery parameter, the use of a discharge unit can be recommended via the note, the nozzle of which has a sufficiently large opening cross-section so that the specified volume flow can actually be discharged. If, for example, the amount of cleaning chemical that is added to the cleaning liquid is specified, a discharge unit can be recommended for use via the note, which is usually used to discharge a cleaning liquid-cleaning chemical mixture so that the best possible cleaning result can be achieved. The information on the output unit also serves to avoid possible damage to the object to be cleaned through the use of an unsuitable discharge unit for specifying the at least one predetermined conveying parameter.

In an advantageous embodiment of the high-pressure cleaning system according to the invention, it is advantageous if the at least one predeterminable delivery parameter comprises the pressure of the cleaning liquid, a volume flow of the cleaning liquid and / or a dosage of a cleaning chemical that can be admixed with the cleaning liquid. In particular, it can be provided that the user can specify the pressure, the volume flow and the dosage independently of one another on the input unit. It is also conceivable that at least two of these parameters can be specified coupled with one another, for example by a user specifying a cleaning profile via the input unit that includes the specification of at least two conveying parameters.

The at least one delivery parameter can advantageously be controlled and / or regulated by the high-pressure cleaning device as a function of the user's specification. For example, the pressure of the cleaning liquid is detected via a pressure sensor, the volume flow via a flow sensor and / or the dosage of the cleaning chemical is detected via a concentration sensor, and a related signal is provided to the control unit. Depending on the signal, the control unit can regulate the pressure, the volume flow and / or the dosage according to the specification by the user.

It has already been mentioned that an operating unit can be arranged on two or more discharge units. The discharge unit can be brought into fluid connection with the pump outlet via the respective operating unit.

Alternatively or in addition, it can be provided that two or more discharge units can optionally be connected to the operating unit. For example, an operating unit that is in fluid connection with the pump outlet is provided, to which one of the two or more discharge units can optionally be connected. This means that more than one discharge unit can be used with just one control unit.

Alternatively or in addition, it can be provided that the high-pressure cleaning system comprises a discharge device which can be connected to the operating unit or on which an operating unit is arranged and which has two or more discharge units, one of which can be selectively selected and brought into fluid connection with the pump outlet. The discharge device comprises more than just a discharge unit. The desired discharge unit can be transferred from a non-use position to a use position. The respectively desired discharge unit can thereby be brought into fluid connection with the pump outlet. Such a discharge device can be arranged on an operating unit or, as mentioned above, can optionally be connected to an operating unit of the high-pressure cleaning system.

• eine Hochdruck-Flachstrahldüse;
• eine Hochdruck-Rotordüse, mit der insbesondere ein auf einem Kegelmantel rotierender Hochdruck-Punktstrahl ausgebbar ist;
• eine Hochdruck-Punktstrahldüse;
• eine Niederdruck-Reinigungsmitteldüse, deren Düsenöffnungsquerschnitt vergleichsweise groß ist im Verhältnis zu denjenigen der Hochdruck-Flachstrahldüse, der Hochdruck-Rotordüse und der Hochdruck-Punktstrahldüse;
• eine Schaumdüse, an der insbesondere ein Behälter für eine aufschäumbare Reinigungschemikalie angeordnet ist;
• eine Waschbürste;
• einen Flächenreiniger, umfassend eine Haube und eine in einem von der Haube begrenzten Aufnahmeraum beweglich angeordnete Düsenanordnung, die von unter Druck stehender Reinigungsflüssigkeit antreibbar ist.

The two or more discharge units can preferably comprise at least one of the following:

• a high pressure flat jet nozzle;
• a high-pressure rotor nozzle with which, in particular, a high-pressure point jet rotating on a conical surface can be emitted;
• a high pressure point jet nozzle;
• a low-pressure cleaning agent nozzle, the nozzle opening cross-section of which is comparatively large in relation to that of the high-pressure flat jet nozzle, the high-pressure rotor nozzle and the high-pressure point jet nozzle;
• a foam nozzle, on which in particular a container for a foamable cleaning chemical is arranged;
• a washing brush;
• a surface cleaner, comprising a hood and a nozzle arrangement which is movably arranged in a receiving space delimited by the hood and which can be driven by pressurized cleaning fluid.

• einen Wert oder einen Wertebereich des mindestens einen Förderparameters;
• eine Betriebsstufe des Hochdruckreinigungsgerätes, wobei mindestens ein Förderparameter in unterschiedlichen Betriebsstufen einen unterschiedlichen Wert oder Wertebereich aufweist. Beispielsweise gibt der Benutzer eine Betriebsstufe vor, die mit der Einstellung mindestens eines Förderparameters verknüpft ist.
• eine Auswahl eines Reinigungsprofils, insbesondere im Hinblick auf einen zu reinigenden Gegenstand, wobei zumindest ein Förderparameter in unterschiedlichen Reinigungsprofilen einen unterschiedlichen Wert oder Wertebereich aufweist. Beispielsweise wird durch Vorgabe eines Reinigungsprofils mindestens ein diesem zugeordneter Förderparameter eingestellt.

The at least one delivery parameter can advantageously be specified by at least one of the following:

• a value or a range of values of the at least one delivery parameter;
• an operating stage of the high-pressure cleaning device, at least one delivery parameter having a different value or range of values in different operating stages. For example, the user specifies an operating level that is linked to the setting of at least one conveying parameter.
• a selection of a cleaning profile, in particular with regard to an object to be cleaned, at least one conveying parameter having a different value or range of values in different cleaning profiles. For example, by specifying a cleaning profile, at least one conveying parameter assigned to it is set.

It can be provided that a value, a value range or an operating level is selected directly via the input unit or increased or decreased by incrementing or decrementing. For example, the operating level is increased or decreased using "+/-" operating elements on the input unit. The value, the value range and / or the operating level can also be preselected by a corresponding numerical input on the input unit.

It has proven to be favorable if two or more operating stages and / or cleaning profiles are coded for the user on the input unit by symbols that are different from one another, for example pictograms, can be selected or displayed. This allows intuitive operation of the input unit. The operating level and / or the cleaning profile can be specified by selecting the appropriate symbol. Linked to the operating stage and / or the cleaning profile, at least one conveying parameter can be specified.

It is favorable if the high-pressure cleaning system comprises a storage unit coupled to the control unit or integrated into it, in which an operating level and / or a cleaning profile are selectably stored via the input unit, with a value or a value range of at least one conveying parameter assigned to the operating level or the cleaning profile is stored. The value or the range of values of at least one conveying parameter in a respective operating stage and / or in a respective cleaning profile can be stored in the memory unit. About the selection of the Operating stage and / or the cleaning profile, the value of the at least one delivery parameter can be predefined in a user-friendly manner.

In particular, the content of the memory unit can be changed. This allows a user to define an operating level and / or a cleaning profile and, linked to this, to store the value or the value range of at least one conveying parameter. This can then be specified in a user-friendly manner by selecting the corresponding operating level and / or the corresponding cleaning profile.

It is advantageous if a preferably wireless data connection to a spatially remote data processing device can be established via the control unit and if data relating to an operating level and / or a cleaning profile can be transmitted from the data processing device to the control unit and stored in the memory unit for selection by the user . Definitions of an operating stage and / or a cleaning profile as well as the value or value range of at least one conveying parameter linked to this can be added to the high-pressure cleaning system in a particularly user-friendly manner. Via the input unit, the user can, for example, initiate the establishment of a data connection between the control unit and the data processing device. The data processing device, for example owned or managed by a manufacturer of the high-pressure cleaning system, can know predefined operating stages and / or cleaning profiles. The corresponding data, via which the value of at least one conveying parameter is set, can be transmitted (in particular "downloaded") from the data processing device to the control unit, for example, and stored in the memory unit. This data can, for example, also have the symbols mentioned above, in particular pictograms, which can be used to select the operating level and / or the cleaning profile.

The output unit is preferably an optical output unit or comprises one, and the information, in particular the recommendation, is preferably displayed on the output unit. The optical output unit allows the information to be provided in a simple and user-friendly manner. For example, the recommended discharge unit is displayed on the output unit by means of text or a symbol or pictogram.

The user's specification for the at least one conveying parameter is advantageously displayed on the output unit. As a result, the user receives, for example, feedback on the output unit as to which value or value ranges of the at least one conveying parameter, which operating stage and / or which cleaning profile he has specified.

The input unit can, for example, comprise at least one switch, button, rotary knob, button or some other type of operating element.

In an advantageous embodiment of the cleaning system according to the invention, the input unit comprises at least one touch-sensitive screen (touchscreen) for specifying the at least one conveying parameter. For example, an operating level and / or a cleaning profile is shown on the screen in coded form by means of a symbol or pictogram. By operating the touchscreen, value or value ranges of at least one conveying parameter that is linked to the operating level and / or the cleaning professional are specified.

The input unit and the output unit preferably form an integrated input / output unit, this preferably comprising a touch-sensitive screen for receiving the specification and outputting the information. In the present case, “integrated” can in particular mean that the integrated units are arranged in a common housing. For example, a self-contained and specially watertight integrated unit is provided.

It proves to be advantageous if the control unit, at least partially, forms an integrated unit with the input unit and / or with the output unit. For example, an integrated control / input / output unit is provided, which is arranged in a closed, waterproof housing. The control unit can at least partially form an integrated unit with the input unit and / or the output unit. This is advantageous, for example, when this integrated unit is arranged on an operating unit or an external additional device. A further part of the control unit can, especially in these two cases, be arranged, for example, in the high-pressure cleaning device and control its high-pressure pump in order to set the at least one delivery parameter.

It has proven to be favorable if the input unit and / or the output unit and / or the control unit are at least partially arranged on the operating unit or are encompassed by it. This makes it easier for the user to handle the system in that inputs can be made on the operating unit and / or outputs can be received on the operating unit.

Alternatively or in addition, it can be provided that the input unit and / or the output unit and / or the control unit, at least partially, are arranged on the high-pressure cleaning device or are encompassed by it.

As an alternative or in addition, it can be provided that the input unit and / or the output unit and / or the control unit are arranged, at least partially, on or encompassed by a preferably portable additional device, in particular a portable computer or a smartphone. This allows particularly user-friendly handling of the high-pressure cleaning system. The preferably portable additional device offers, for example, the possibility, as explained above, of establishing a data connection with the external data processing device and of transmitting data relating to an operating stage and / or a cleaning profile for storage in the memory unit.

In accordance with the above embodiments, it can be provided that the high-pressure cleaning system comprises more than just one input unit and / or more than just one output unit. The control unit can, at least partially, be arranged in the operating unit, in the high-pressure cleaning device and / or in the additional device or be comprised thereof.

It is favorable if data can be transmitted wirelessly from the operating unit and / or from the additional device to the high-pressure cleaning device and / or vice versa. For example, a radio link is used so that the user's specification on the operating unit and / or on the additional device is transmitted to a control unit or a part thereof in the high-pressure cleaning device.

It proves to be advantageous if the high-pressure cleaning system comprises a detection unit coupled to the control unit with which the discharge unit connected to the control unit or the discharge unit arranged on the control unit can be determined.

The recognition unit is arranged, for example, on the operating unit or encompassed by it.

The at least one discharge unit can be recognized, for example, according to at least one of the following: mechanical, electrical, contact-based, wireless, by radio link (for example, RFID).

The detection unit makes it possible to determine whether a discharge unit may be provided which deviates from the recommendation on the output unit. If the discharge unit deviates from a discharge unit according to the recommendation, the control unit can preferably provide a relevant, for example optical or acoustic, indication on the output unit. The user can thereby be advised to check the choice of discharge unit.

As mentioned at the outset, the invention also relates to a method.

The object of the present invention is to provide a method for operating a high-pressure cleaning system of the type mentioned above.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a method for operating a high-pressure cleaning system, which comprises a high-pressure cleaning device with a high-pressure pump for increasing the pressure of a cleaning liquid and two or more different discharge units for discharging the cleaning liquid, which can optionally be brought into fluid connection with a pump outlet of the high-pressure pump, wherein the discharge units can be connected to an operating unit of the high-pressure cleaning system or an operating unit is arranged on at least one discharge unit, the high-pressure cleaning system comprising an input unit via which a user specifies at least one conveying parameter, the at least one conveying parameter from a control unit coupled to the input unit of the high pressure cleaning system is set according to the specification, and wherein the high pressure cleaning system has an output coupled to the control unit A unit on which, depending on the specification of the user, an indication is provided which includes a recommendation of at least one discharge unit.

The advantages that have already been mentioned above in connection with the explanation of the high-pressure cleaning system according to the invention can be achieved using the method. To avoid repetition, reference can therefore be made to the above explanations.

Advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention result from advantageous embodiments of the high-pressure cleaning system according to the invention and its use. The features of the advantageous embodiments can be used to define advantageous exemplary embodiments of the method.

Figur 1:

eine bevorzugte Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Hochdruckreinigungssystems, teilweise schematisch, umfassend ein Hochdruckreinigungsgerät, eine Bedieneinheit, eine Mehrzahl von Austragseinheiten und ein portables Zusatzgerät;

Figur 2:

eine weitere Austragseinheit des Hochdruckreinigungssystems aus Figur 1;

Figur 3:

eine Ansicht der Austragseinheit aus Figur 2 von unten;

Figur 4:

Symbole, die unterschiedliche Betriebsstufen des Hochdruckreinigungsgerätes aus Figur 1 symbolisieren, wobei zumindest ein Förderparameter des Hochdruckreinigungsgerätes in den unterschiedlichen Betriebsstufen (1, 2 oder 3) einen unterschiedlichen Wert oder einen unterschiedlichen Wertebereich annimmt;

Figur 5:

eine Draufsicht auf eine kombinierte Eingabe-/Ausgabeeinheit des Hochdruckreinigungssystems aus Figur 1, wobei der Förderparameter "Druck" die Betriebsstufe 3 einnimmt;

Figur 6:

eine Darstellung entsprechend Figur 5, wobei der Förderparameter "Druck" die Betriebsstufe 2 einnimmt;

Figur 7:

eine Darstellung entsprechend Figur 5, wobei der Förderparameter "Druck" die Betriebsstufe 1 einnimmt;

Figur 8:

ein schematisches Blockdiagramm zur Erläuterung des Aufbaus und der Funktionsweise des Hochdruckreinigungsgerätes aus Figur 1 und

Figur 9:

eine Draufsicht auf eine kombinierte Eingabe-/Ausgabeeinheit, die beispielsweise bei dem Hochdruckreinigungssystem aus Figur 1 zum Einsatz kommen kann.

The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention is used in conjunction with the drawing to explain the invention in greater detail. Show it:

Figure 1:

a preferred embodiment of a high-pressure cleaning system according to the invention, partly schematically, comprising a high-pressure cleaning device, an operating unit, a plurality of discharge units and a portable additional device;

Figure 2:

another discharge unit of the high-pressure cleaning system Figure 1 ;

Figure 3:

a view of the discharge unit Figure 2 from underneath;

Figure 4:

Symbols that indicate the different operating stages of the high-pressure cleaning device Figure 1 symbolize, at least one delivery parameter of the high-pressure cleaning device in the different operating stages (1, 2 or 3) assumes a different value or a different value range;

Figure 5:

a plan view of a combined input / output unit of the high-pressure cleaning system Figure 1 , whereby the conveying parameter "pressure" assumes operating level 3;

Figure 6:

a representation accordingly Figure 5 , whereby the conveying parameter "pressure" assumes operating level 2;

Figure 7:

a representation accordingly Figure 5 , whereby the conveying parameter "pressure" assumes operating level 1;

Figure 8:

a schematic block diagram to explain the structure and mode of operation of the high-pressure cleaning device Figure 1 and

Figure 9:

a plan view of a combined input / output unit, for example in the high-pressure cleaning system Figure 1 can be used.

Figure 1 shows an advantageous embodiment of a high-pressure cleaning system according to the invention, assigned the reference number 10. The high-pressure cleaning system comprises a high-pressure cleaning device 12, which comprises a motor-pump unit 14. The motor-pump unit 14 has a high-pressure pump 16 and a drive motor 18 for this. A cleaning fluid to be pressurized, in particular water, can be fed to the high-pressure pump 16 via a pump inlet 20. The cleaning liquid placed under high pressure can be discharged at a pump outlet 22 of the high pressure pump 16.

A container 24, in which a cleaning chemical is stored, is arranged on the high-pressure cleaning device 12. Via an admixing device 25 ( Figure 8 ) a cleaning chemical can be added to the cleaning liquid in order to increase the cleaning performance of the cleaning liquid. The admixing device 25 is controllable so that the dosage of the cleaning chemical can be adjusted.

The high-pressure cleaning system 10 comprises an operating unit 26 in the form of a high-pressure gun 28. The gun 28 can be connected to the pump outlet 22 via a high-pressure line 30. An operating element in the form of a trigger 32 opens a valve arranged in the pistol 28 when actuated. Pressurized cleaning fluid can thereby be dispensed from the gun 28.

The high-pressure cleaning system 10 also includes a discharge device 34 which can be detachably connected to the operating unit 26. The discharge device 34 comprises three discharge units which are arranged in a common housing 36. The housing 36 is rotatable, for example, about a longitudinal axis 38 of the discharge device 34. This gives the option of bringing one of the three discharge units of the discharge device 34 into fluid connection with the pump outlet 22. If the corresponding discharge unit assumes a position of use, a fluid line enclosed by it is aligned with a fluid line of the pistol 28, to which the discharge device 34 is connected. By rotating the housing 36 about the longitudinal axis 38, one of the three discharge units can be brought into fluid connection with the pump outlet 22 via the gun 28, depending on the user's wishes.

Which discharge unit is in the position of use and which two further discharge units are in the non-use position can be recognized by the user, for example, by means of a marking 40 on the housing 36. The identification 40 comprises an individual symbol assigned to each discharge unit, which symbol can be easily recognized by the user.

In particular, the discharge device 34 comprises a high-pressure flat jet nozzle 42 for emitting a fan-shaped cleaning jet. In addition, the discharge device 34 comprises a high-pressure rotor nozzle 44 with which a high-pressure point jet rotating on a conical surface can be output. The discharge device 34 also includes a low-pressure cleaning agent nozzle 46. The nozzle opening cross-section of the cleaning agent nozzle 46 is significantly larger than the respective nozzle opening cross-section of the flat jet nozzle 42 and the rotor nozzle 44. A cleaning jet can be released from the cleaning agent nozzle 46 at a lower pressure than with the other two nozzles 42, 44 be delivered by a large volume flow.

The high-pressure cleaning system 10 comprises several further discharge units which, instead of the discharge device 34, can optionally be connected to the gun 28. The discharge units can thereby each be brought into fluid connection with the pump outlet 22 via the gun 28. A discharge unit 48 is provided which comprises a high-pressure flat jet nozzle 50.

Furthermore, a discharge unit 52 is provided, which comprises a high-pressure rotor nozzle 54.

Discharge units 56 and 60 are also provided, which include washing brushes 58 and 62, respectively, the washing brushes 58, 62 differing from one another with regard to their shape and function.

In addition, a discharge unit 64 is provided. The discharge unit 64 comprises a foam nozzle 66. Cleaning liquid, to which a foam-forming cleaning chemical can be added via a container 68 of the discharge unit 64, can be foamed via the foam nozzle 66.

The Figures 2 and 3 show a further discharge unit 70 in the form of a surface cleaner 72, which can also be optionally connected to the gun 28 and brought into fluid connection with the pump outlet 22. The surface cleaner 72 comprises a hood 74 at the working end, which delimits a receiving space 76. A nozzle arrangement 78 is provided in the receiving space 76 and is held on the hood 74 so as to rotate about an axis 80. Under the action of the cleaning liquid, the nozzle arrangement 78 is set in rotation and acts on a surface to be cleaned.

Depending on the type and nature of the object to be cleaned and / or depending on the type of cleaning (for example rough cleaning, abrasive cleaning, foam cleaning, brush cleaning ...), the user can use the discharge device 34 with its corresponding discharge unit or one of the further discharge units 48, 52 , 56, 60, 64 or 70 to the gun 28 and apply the cleaning liquid to the object to be cleaned, possibly with added cleaning chemicals and / or foamed.

It is desirable that, depending on the type and quality of the object and depending on the type of cleaning, the best possible cleaning result is achieved and damage to the object is avoided as far as possible.

The different discharge units of the cleaning system 10 have different discharge characteristics in order to achieve different cleaning results. It can, however, be provided that the high-pressure flat jet nozzles 42 and 50 on the one hand and the high-pressure rotor nozzles 44 and 54 on the other hand have identical discharge characteristics.

Like in particular from Figure 8 As can be seen, the high-pressure cleaning system 10 has a control unit 82 in the high-pressure cleaning device 12. The control unit 82 allows the high-pressure pump 16 to be activated in order to set the pressure of the cleaning fluid provided by it. Alternatively or in addition, the volume flow of the cleaning liquid can be adjusted.

A pressure sensor 84 and a flow sensor 86 transmit a pressure signal or a signal relating to the volume flow to the control unit 82. Taking this respective signal into account, the control unit 82 can control the pressure or the volume flow and in particular regulate it as a function of a respective value or value range specified for the control unit 82.

The control unit 82 is also coupled to the admixing device 25 in order to adjust the dosage of the cleaning chemical from the container 24. The signal from a concentration sensor 88, with which the dosage of the cleaning chemical in the cleaning liquid can be determined, can be fed to the control unit 82. This makes it possible to control and in particular regulate the dosage of the cleaning chemical as a function of a value or value range supplied to the control unit 82.

The pressure, the volume flow and the dosage of the cleaning agent chemical are conveying parameters of the high-pressure cleaning device 12. In the high-pressure cleaning device 12, at least one conveying parameter can be specified by a user. This is explained below with reference in particular to the Figures 4 to 8 explained. This is explained by way of example using the delivery parameter “pressure of the cleaning fluid”. However, the following statements apply in a corresponding manner to the delivery parameter "volume flow" and the delivery parameter "dosage of the cleaning agent chemical".

Furthermore, the following explanation of the invention takes place on the basis of the exemplary discharge device 34 with the three different discharge units, which can optionally be transferred into a position of use. However, the following explanations also apply in a corresponding manner to the other discharge units 48, 52, 56, 60, 64 and 70 of the high-pressure cleaning system 10.

The exemplary restriction of the explanation of the invention to the pressure of the cleaning liquid and the use of the discharge device 34 is not limiting for the present invention.

Figure 4 shows, by way of example, three symbols 90, 92 and 94, as they could, for example, be shown in an operating manual for the high-pressure cleaning system 10 in order to make it easier for the user to use it. An illustration of the symbols 90, 92, 94 on the high-pressure cleaning device 12 and / or the operating unit 26 is also conceivable.

The symbol 90 symbolizes an operating level “1” of the high-pressure cleaning device 12. It is made clear to the user that, in operating level “1”, preferably relatively “soft” (for example sensitive) objects should be cleaned. By way of example, the symbol 90 comprises the pictogram of a garden fence.

The symbol 92 symbolizes an operating level “2” of the high-pressure cleaning device 12. It is made clear to the user that in operating level “2”, preferably relatively “medium-hard” (for example normally resistant) objects should be cleaned. By way of example, the symbol 92 includes the pictogram of a motor vehicle.

The symbol 94 symbolizes an operating level “3” of the high-pressure cleaning device 12. It is made clear to the user that in operating level “3”, preferably relatively “hard” (for example very resistant) objects should be cleaned. By way of example, the symbol 94 includes the pictogram of masonry.

The high-pressure cleaning device 12 can be operated in the three different operating stages "1, 2, 3". The respective pressure of the cleaning liquid that is provided by the high-pressure pump 16 differs from one another in the operating stages. In particular, each operating stage has a range of values for the delivery parameter “pressure” which differs from that range of values for the other operating stages. In operating level "1" the pressure of the cleaning fluid is lowest, in operating level "2" the pressure is higher, and in operating level "3" the pressure is highest.

In addition to operating levels "1, 2, 3", intermediate levels are provided, namely operating levels "1.5" and "2.5". In operating level "1.5", the range of values for the delivery parameter "pressure" is higher than in operating level "1", but smaller than in operating level "2". In a corresponding manner, the range of values of the delivery parameter “pressure” is higher in operating level “2.5” than in operating level “2”, but smaller than in operating level “3”.

The high-pressure cleaning system 10 comprises an input unit 96, a control unit 98 coupled to it, and an output unit 100 coupled to the control unit 98. In the present case, the input unit 96, the control unit 98 and the output unit 100 are integrated as an integrated unit 102. The unit 102 is accommodated, for example, in a closed and in particular watertight housing 104. In the present case, the integrated unit 102 is arranged on the pistol 28, for example near the trigger 32. The output unit 100 can thereby be easily grasped by the user and the input unit 96 can be operated in a simple manner.

It is also conceivable to arrange an input unit and an output unit 100 on the high-pressure cleaning device 12, which has already been explained above.

The control unit 98 can communicate with the control unit 82 in the high-pressure cleaning device 12. In particular, wireless communication is possible, for example by radio. For this purpose, the control unit 98 and the control unit 82 have radio elements 112 and 114, respectively.

The control unit 98 and the control unit 82 can in particular be viewed as parts of a common control unit of the high-pressure cleaning system 10, which are spatially separated from one another in the unit 102 on the one hand or in the high-pressure cleaning device 12 on the other hand.

A memory unit 106 is integrated into the control unit 98.

In the present case, the input unit 96 has operating elements in the form of keys 108, 110. The key 108 is marked with the symbol “-”, the key 110 with the symbol “+”.

In the present case, the output unit 100 is an optical output unit for the visual representation of information relating to the state of the high-pressure cleaning system 10, in particular the operating stage assumed by it. Furthermore, the output unit 100 includes an indication with a recommendation as to which of the discharge units of the discharge device 34 should be used depending on an operating stage that is specified by the user on the input unit 96. This is explained below.

The user can use the buttons 108, 110 to specify the operating stages "1 / 1.5 / 2 / 2.5 / 3" of the high-pressure cleaning device 12 in an incremental (button 110) or decremental (button 108). He can use the symbols 90, 92, 94 as a guide, for example. The user's specification is transmitted to the control unit 98. The value range for the pressure assigned to the respective predetermined operating stage is read from the memory unit 106 and a signal relating to this is transmitted wirelessly to the control unit 82. The control unit 82 can control the high-pressure pump 16. As mentioned, the pressure of the cleaning liquid can be regulated.

It is also conceivable that the operating level specified by the user is transmitted to the control unit 82 and that a value range of the pressure assigned to the operating level is read from a memory unit of the control unit 82, on which the pressure regulation is based.

On the one hand, the control unit 82 can use the output unit 100 to visually display the specification of the selected conveying parameter “pressure”, symbolized by the operating stage. For example, in Figure 5 the operating level "3" (hard), which the user has specified.

In addition, an indication is provided on the output unit 100 which includes the recommendation of at least one discharge unit, the indication depending on the specification of the conveying parameter “pressure” by the user.

Using the example of Figure 5 it is shown that an indication 116 is provided at the selected operating level "3". Note 116 includes a first recommendation that has an icon 118. A second recommendation is also provided, which has an icon 120.

The symbol 118 symbolizes a high-pressure flat jet nozzle. The user is therefore advised to use a discharge unit with a high-pressure flat jet nozzle when using operating level "3".

The symbol 120 symbolizes a high-pressure rotary nozzle. This symbolizes for the user that, as an alternative, a discharge unit with a high-pressure rotary nozzle could be used in operating level "3".

With the use of the application device 34 assumed in the present case, the user can use its discharge unit with high-pressure flat jet nozzle 42 or its discharge unit with high-pressure rotor nozzle 44 in order to comply with indication 116. The user can verify the correct selection of the discharge unit via the marking 40.

Instead of the discharge units with the nozzles 42 and 44, the discharge units 48 with the nozzle 50 or 52 with the nozzle 54 could alternatively be connected to the gun 28.

Note 116 is used to recommend to the user the most suitable discharge unit for the selected operating mode so that, on the one hand, the best possible cleaning result can be achieved and, on the other hand, damage to the object to be cleaned is avoided as far as possible.

This is further discussed below with reference to FIG Figure 6 clarified. In the example of Figure 6 If the user has selected the operating level "2" via the input unit 96, which is linked to a lower value range of the conveying parameter "pressure". In this case, the note 116 only includes a recommendation, namely by showing the symbol 118, which relates to a high-pressure flat jet nozzle 42. This symbolizes for the user that the discharge unit with the high-pressure flat jet nozzle 42 of the discharge device 34 should be used. Alternatively, the discharge unit 48 with the high-pressure flat jet nozzle 50 could also be used.

The symbol 120 is omitted in this case and therefore a recommendation to use a high-pressure rotor nozzle 44, for example, because the high-pressure rotor nozzle requires a pressure of the cleaning fluid that exceeds the pressure in operating level "2" to achieve an optimal cleaning effect. The recommendation about the symbol 120 can also be omitted, for example, because in the underlying application, the cleaning of a "medium-soft" object, which is to be feared if a high-pressure rotor nozzle is used.

The invention is further clarified with reference to Figure 7 , in which the assumption of the operating level "1" is symbolized on the input unit 96 according to the specification of the user. Depending on the specification, the note 116 again includes the recommendation to use a high-pressure flat jet nozzle via the symbol 118. The note 116 also includes the recommendation to use a low-pressure cleaning agent nozzle via a corresponding symbol 122.

Accordingly, it is symbolized for the user that the discharge units with the high-pressure flat jet nozzle 42 or the low-pressure cleaning agent nozzle 46 of the discharge device 34 could be used in operating level "1". Alternatively, the discharge unit 48 with the high-pressure flat jet nozzle 50 could be used.

In operating level “1”, a cleaning chemical can be added via the admixing device 25.

The high-pressure cleaning system 10 according to the invention is characterized by particularly user-friendly handling. On the one hand, it is possible to specify at least one conveying parameter via the input unit 96. According to the user's specifications, the high-pressure cleaning device 12 sets the desired conveying parameters as specified. On the other hand, the user receives a response via the output unit 100 that the Note 116 and with it a recommendation on the use of the most suitable discharge unit. The cleaning result can thereby be optimized and the risk of damage to the object to be cleaned can be reduced.

Figure 9 FIG. 12 shows a schematic plan view of an integrated unit 124 which could be used in the high-pressure cleaning system 10 instead of the integrated unit 102. The integrated unit 124 comprises an integrated input / output unit 126, which in the present case is designed as a touch-sensitive screen (touchscreen 128). Furthermore, the control unit 98 is integrated into the unit 124 (not shown).

A plurality of symbols 130, in particular pictograms, are displayed on the touchscreen 128. Each symbol 130 is linked to a cleaning profile that is stored, for example, in the storage unit 106 or in the storage unit of the control unit 82. Each cleaning profile is linked to a range of values, in particular for the “pressure” conveying parameter. Furthermore, with reference to the previous statements, there can also be a link to a further conveying parameter such as the volume flow and / or the dosage of the cleaning chemical.

The user can specify at least one conveying parameter by selecting the corresponding symbol 130 on the touchscreen 128. The state of the high-pressure cleaning device 12 is set under activation by the control unit 82. Depending on the user's specifications, the message 116 is output on the touchscreen 128.

In the example of Figure 9 the user has selected the symbol 130 "masonry" which is visually highlighted. A comparatively high pressure of the cleaning fluid is associated with the cleaning profile for "masonry", for example similar to operating level "3" in the previous example. Correspondingly, in the example according to FIG Figure 9 the recommendation with the symbol 118 to use a discharge unit with a high-pressure flat jet nozzle and the recommendation with the symbol 120 to use a discharge unit with a high-pressure rotor nozzle.

In Figure 1 an additional device 132 is also shown as part of the high-pressure cleaning system. The additional device, preferably portable, is, for example, a portable computer or a smartphone 134. The smartphone 134 can be used as an alternative or in addition to the integrated unit 102 or 124. The touchscreen 138 can be used as an integrated input / output unit 136. An internal data processing device of the smartphone 134 can be used instead of the control unit 98.

When using the smartphone 134 to specify at least one conveying parameter, for example, an input and output is used on the touchscreen 138, as described above using the example of FIG Figure 9 and touchscreen 128 has been explained.

In an advantageous embodiment, the control unit 98 and / or the internal control unit of the smartphone 134 can set up a wireless data connection via a communication network 140 (for example the Internet) to a spatially remote data processing device 142. This has, for example, a radio element 144 for communication with the radio element 112 or a radio element of the smartphone 134.

The data processing device 142 is, for example, owned or managed by a manufacturer of the high-pressure cleaning system 10 and is coupled to a database 146. For example, cleaning profiles can be stored in the database 146. In the present case this is understood in particular to mean that the corresponding cleaning profile comprises a specification of a value or value range of at least one conveying parameter. Data, which include the definition of a cleaning profile can be transmitted via the communication network 140 to the control unit 98 or to the smartphone 134 and stored in the storage unit 106 or in the memory of the smartphone 134. The cleaning profile can be "downloaded" accordingly. For example, the cleaning profile also includes a symbol 130 for display on the touchscreen 128 or 138.

As already explained above, the user can specify at least one conveying parameter for the high-pressure cleaning device 12 by selecting the corresponding symbol 130.

The high-pressure cleaning system 10 can also have a detection unit 148. The detection unit 148 is arranged, for example, on the pistol 28 and coupled to the control unit 98 or the data processing device of the smartphone 134.

The detection unit 148 can be used to detect which discharge unit is connected to the pistol 28 or which of the discharge units of the discharge device 34 is in the position of use. Figure 8 shows schematically a discharge unit 150.

If the detected discharge unit deviates from the discharge unit according to the indication 116, a related indication can be made available to the user. For example, a notice is displayed on the output unit 100. It is also possible for the high-pressure cleaning device 12 and / or the gun 28 to block the discharge of cleaning liquid until a discharge unit is connected to the gun 28 or has been selected in accordance with the indication 116.

The detection unit 148 can detect the discharge unit with or without contact, for example mechanically, electrically or in some other way. For example, contactless detection is carried out using RFID technology.

Claims (17)

1. High-pressure cleaning system, comprising a high-pressure cleaning apparatus (12) having a high-pressure pump (16) for increasing the pressure of a cleaning liquid, and comprising two or more discharge units (48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 70), for discharging the cleaning liquid, which are different from each other and which can be selectively brought into fluid communication with a pump outlet (22) of the high-pressure pump (16), wherein the discharge units (48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 70) are connectable to an operating unit (26) of the high-pressure cleaning system (10) or wherein an operating unit (26) is arranged on at least one discharge unit (48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 70), wherein the high-pressure cleaning system (10) comprises an input unit (96) via which at least one output parameter is predeterminable by a user, wherein the at least one output parameter is adjusted, in accordance with the predetermination, by way of a control unit (82, 98), coupled to the input unit (96), of the high-pressure cleaning system (10), and wherein the high-pressure cleaning system (10) comprises an output unit (100) coupled to the control unit (82, 98), characterized in that on the output unit (100) an indication (116) is provided depending on the predetermination made by the user, said indication (116) comprising a recommendation (118, 120, 122) of at least one discharge unit (48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 70).
2. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that the at least one output parameter predeterminable by the user via the input unit (96) comprises at least one of the following:

   - the pressure of the cleaning liquid;

   - a volumetric flow rate of the cleaning liquid;

   - a dosage of a cleaning chemical admixable to the cleaning liquid.
3. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one output parameter is controllable by the high-pressure cleaning apparatus (12) depending on the predetermination made by the user.
4. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the following applies:

   - two or more discharge units (48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 70) are selectively connectable to the operating unit (26)

   - the high-pressure cleaning system (10) comprises a discharge device (34) which is connectable to the operating unit (26) or on which is arranged an operating unit (26) and which comprises two or more discharge units, one of which can be selectively selected and brought into fluid communication with the pump outlet (22).
5. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two or more discharge units (48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 70) comprise at least one of the following:

   - a high-pressure flat jet nozzle (42, 50);

   - a high-pressure rotary nozzle (44, 54);

   - a high-pressure pinpoint jet nozzle;

   - a low-pressure cleaning agent nozzle (46);

   - a foam nozzle (66);

   - a wash brush (58, 62);

   - a surface cleaner (72), comprising a hood (74) and a nozzle assembly (78) movably arranged in a receiving space (76) bounded by the hood (74), said nozzle assembly (78) being drivable by pressurized cleaning liquid.
6. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one output parameter is predeterminable by the user via the input unit (96) by at least one of the following:

   - a value or range of values of the at least one output parameter;

   - an operating level of the high-pressure cleaning apparatus (12), at least one output parameter having a different value or range of values in different operating levels;

   - a choice of a cleaning profile, in particular with regard to an object to be cleaned, at least one output parameter having a different value or range of values in different cleaning profiles.
7. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with claim 6, characterized in that two or more operating levels and/or cleaning profiles are selectably presented or selectably presentable to the user on the input unit (96, 126, 136) in a manner coded by symbols (130) that differ from one other.
8. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the high-pressure cleaning system (10) comprises a storage unit (106) coupled to or integrated in the control unit (82, 98) in which an operating level and/or a cleaning profile is stored in a manner in which they are selectable via the input unit (96, 126, 136), wherein a value or range of values of at least one output parameter associated with the operating level or the cleaning profile is stored.
9. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the output unit (100, 126, 136) is or comprises a visual output unit (100, 126, 136) and in that at least one of the following is presented on the output unit (100, 126, 136):

   - the indication (116), in particular the recommendation;

   - the user's predetermination of the at least one output parameter.
10. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input unit (96, 126, 136) comprises at least one switch, button (108, 110), rotary knob and/or touch-sensitive screen for predetermining the at least one output parameter.
11. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input unit (96, 126, 136) and the output unit (100, 126, 136) form an integrated input/output unit (102, 124), in particular in that this comprises a touch-sensitive screen (128) for receiving the predetermination and outputting the indication (116).
12. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (98) forms, at least in part, an integrated unit (102, 124) with the input unit (96, 126, 136) and/or with the output unit (100, 126, 136).
13. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input unit (96, 126) and/or the output unit (100, 126) and/or the control unit (98) are, at least in part, arranged on or comprised by the operating unit (26).
14. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input unit and/or the output unit and/or the control unit are, at least in part, arranged on or comprised by the high-pressure cleaning apparatus (12).
15. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input unit (136) and/or the output unit (136) and/or the control unit are, at least in part, arranged on or comprised by a preferably portable accessory device (132), in particular a portable computer or a smartphone (134).
16. High-pressure cleaning system in accordance with claim 13 or 15, characterized in that data are wirelessly transmittable from the operating unit (26) and/or from the accessory device (132) to the high-pressure cleaning apparatus (12) and/or vice versa.
17. Method for operating a high-pressure cleaning system comprising a high-pressure cleaning apparatus (12) having a high-pressure pump (16) for increasing the pressure of a cleaning liquid, and comprising two or more discharge units (48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 70), for discharging the cleaning liquid, which are different from each other and which can be selectively brought into fluid communication with a pump outlet (22) of the high-pressure pump (16), wherein the discharge units (48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 70) are connectable to an operating unit (26) of the high-pressure cleaning system (10) or wherein an operating unit (26) is arranged on at least one discharge unit (48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 70), wherein the high-pressure cleaning system (10) comprises an input unit (96) via which at least one output parameter is predetermined by a user, wherein the at least one output parameter is adjusted, in accordance with the predetermination, by a control unit (82, 98), coupled to the input unit (96), of the high-pressure cleaning system (10), and wherein the high-pressure cleaning system (10) comprises an output unit (100) coupled to the control unit (82, 98), characterized in that on the output unit (100) an indication (116) depending on the predetermination made by the user is provided, said indication (116) comprising a recommendation (118, 120, 122) of at least one discharge unit (48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 70).

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