CLEANING SYSTEM COMPRISING AT LEAST ONE HAND-GUIDED CLEANING CART AND TWO OR MORE FUNCTIONAL DEVICES

The invention relates to a cleaning system comprising a hand-guided cleaning cart which comprises rollers and is movable over a supporting surface, for transporting and storing cleaning utensils for manual cleaning, wherein the cleaning system comprises at least one receiving device arranged at the cleaning cart and two or more different functional devices for operation and/or use of the at least one cleaning cart, wherein the functional devices are selectively connectable to the at least one receiving device, and wherein the at least one receiving device and the functional devices comprise cooperating connecting elements.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a cleaning system comprising a hand-guided cleaning cart which comprises rollers and is movable over a supporting surface, for transporting and storing cleaning utensils for manual cleaning.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Despite modern cleaning machines, in particular in the field of interior cleaning, some of which can be automated, cleaning carts are of great importance in the field of daily cleaning. A particular emphasis is on cleaning tasks that are to be manually performed in larger buildings, such as office buildings, hotels, nursing facilities, hospitals, airports, event buildings, or the like. The cleaning carts serve to carry cleaning utensils. Examples of these include, in particular, manually guided cleaning machines (vacuums, cordless brooms, hard floor cleaners, brush vacuum cleaners . . . ), or cleaning tools, receptacles for storing cleaning accessories, cleaning liquids or cleaning chemicals, receptacles for holding dirty liquid or waste, cleaning cloths, or other items for surface cleaning. The cleaning carts comprise rollers so that they can be moved by a user over a supporting surface.

An object underlying the present invention is to provide a cleaning system that has increased versatility.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In an aspect of the invention, a cleaning system is provided. The cleaning system comprises a hand-guided cleaning cart which comprises rollers and is movable over a supporting surface, for transporting and storing cleaning utensils for manual cleaning. The cleaning system further comprises at least one receiving device arranged at the cleaning cart and two or more different functional devices for operation and/or use of the at least one cleaning cart. The functional devices are selectively connectable to the at least one receiving device. The at least one receiving device and the functional devices comprise cooperating connecting elements.

The present invention relates to a cleaning system comprising a hand-guided cleaning cart which comprises rollers and is movable over a supporting surface, for transporting and storing cleaning utensils for manual cleaning, wherein the cleaning system comprises at least one receiving device arranged at the cleaning cart and two or more different functional devices for operation and/or use of the at least one cleaning cart, wherein the functional devices are selectively connectable to the at least one receiving device, and wherein the at least one receiving device and the functional devices comprise cooperating connecting elements.

The cleaning cart in accordance with the invention comprises a receiving device. Two or more different functional devices are provided. The functional devices can be selectively connected to the receiving device via respective cooperating connecting elements. For example, this gives the possibility of providing, during manufacture and/or setup of the cleaning cart, different configurations of the cleaning cart which will depend on the choice of the respective functional device, by use of only one receiving device. The cleaning system has thereby proven to be particularly versatile because separate receiving devices need not be provided. This reduces the number of components required for the different configurations of the cleaning cart, thereby preferably allowing manufacturing costs to be reduced.

In particular, the cleaning system in accordance with the present invention can comprise more than one hand-guided cleaning cart. For example, two or more cleaning carts are provided. Two or more cleaning carts of the at least two cleaning carts can be of different configuration or can be of identical configuration.

In particular, it can be advantageous for the different functional devices to be releasably connectable to the at least one receiving device by having the connecting elements at the receiving device and at the functional devices be releasably connectable to one another. This enhances the versatility of the cleaning system. For example, depending on the cleaning task to be performed and its attendant cleaning utensils that are to be carried along, and/or user preferences, the user can swap out one functional device for another. This can preferably be accomplished when the cleaning cart is operating.

It is advantageous in particular for the two or more functional devices to be connected to the at least one receiving device by hand and/or without tools and/or for the two or more functional devices to be released from the at least one receiving device by hand and/or without tools.

It can be advantageous for the cleaning system to comprise more than two different functional devices. This increases the cleaning system's versatility in which the at least one cleaning cart can selectively be equipped with one of the more than two functional devices.

It can be advantageous for the cleaning system to comprise a plurality of identically configured functional devices. This can be advantageous, for example, where the cleaning system comprises more than two cleaning carts that are to be equipped with identically configured functional devices.

Alternatively or in addition, provision can be made for a cleaning cart to be equipped with two or more identically configured functional devices.

It can be advantageous for the cleaning system to comprise two or more cleaning carts and for at least one receiving device to be arranged at the respective cleaning cart, wherein at least one of the functional devices is selectively connectable to a receiving device of one of the cleaning carts. In this way, the cleaning system is rendered highly versatile. The user can attach, preferably releasably attach, the functional device to the designated, best suited or preferred cleaning cart as desired, preferred and/or needed.

Preferably, receiving devices of the two or more cleaning carts are of identical configuration.

Provision can be made for two or more different functional devices to be associated with a respective cleaning cart for operation and/or use of the respective cleaning cart.

It is advantageous for the functional devices to comprise at least one handle device having at least one, and preferably two, handle elements for the user. Via the handle device, the cleaning cart can be moved on the supporting surface in a user-friendly manner.

By way of example, a handle device can be provided in which the at least one handle element is arranged at the functional device in a non-movable manner. For example, said handle device comprises two non-movable handle elements.

Alternatively or in addition, a handle device can be provided in which the at least one handle element, for example two handle elements, is adapted to be moved relative to a base element comprised by the handle device. For example, this allows the user to adjust the position of the handle element to the user's needs, whereby the user-friendliness of the cleaning system is enhanced. For example, provision can be made for height adjustment of the at least one handle element.

It can prove to be advantageous for the at least one movable handle element to be pivotable about a pivot axis relative to the base element. The pivot axis is preferably oriented parallel to a contact plane of the cleaning cart defined by the rollers. Correspondingly, with a horizontal supporting surface, the pivot axis can be oriented horizontally.

For example, the possibility exists for two handle elements of the handle device to be pivoted in common about the pivot axis, in particular for height adjustment.

Advantageously, the handle device comprises or forms a securing device for securing the handle element against movement relative to the base element. The at least one handle element adjusted to the needs of the user is thereby secured in the preferred position. This increases the user-friendliness of the cleaning system.

By way of example, a handle device can be provided in which the at least one handle element is oriented in a plane parallel to a contact plane of the cleaning cart defined by the rollers. For example, the user can vertically grasp around the handle element when adopting a horizontal hand pose.

Alternatively or in addition, for example, a handle device can be provided in which the at least one handle element is oriented in a plane transverse and in particular perpendicular to a contact plane of the cleaning cart defined by the rollers. For example, the handle element is oriented vertically with a horizontally oriented supporting surface. For example, the user can horizontally grasp around the handle element when adopting a vertical hand pose.

It is advantageous for the functional devices to comprise a coupling device for coupling the cleaning cart to a further cleaning cart of the cleaning system. By virtue of the possibility of connecting together two or more cleaning carts, the user-friendliness and versatility of the cleaning system is increased. By way of example, cleaning carts can be connected together for empty trips, i.e., mere transport with no cleaning tasks being performed. It is also conceivable that cleaning carts are equipped for the cleaning tasks they are intended to carry out at a central location, whence they are conjointly transferred to a destination where they are separated from one another. This can analogously be done after the cleaning tasks have been completed. The cleaning carts can be connected together and transferred to a central location for waste disposal and/or re-setup.

It can be advantageous for the cleaning system to comprise at least one further cleaning cart which comprises a receiving device and a functional device in the form of a coupling device which is connected to the receiving device of the further cleaning cart, and for the cleaning carts to be connectable together via the intercoupling coupling devices.

That said, it is advantageously provided for the cleaning carts to be releasably connectable together via the coupling devices.

Preferably, connecting and/or releasing can be performed without tools and/or by hand.

It is advantageous for the coupling devices and/or the receiving devices of the two cleaning carts to be of identical configuration. This facilitates manufacture of the cleaning system and helps reduce manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the ease of handling of the cleaning system is improved by virtue of the fact that identical coupling devices and/or receiving devices are used.

It is advantageous for the cleaning system to comprise at least one clamping holder for cleaning utensils which has an elastically deformable holding part that can be transferred from a holding position in which it at least partially engages behind the cleaning utensil to an expanded release position in which the cleaning utensil can be removed from the clamping holder and inserted therein. By way of the clamping holder, cleaning utensils can be fastened and carried on the cleaning cart in an easy-to-handle manner. For example, the clamping holder can be configured in the manner of a clamping holder as it is described in WO 85/00132 A1, WO 2005/042212 A1 or JP 2010-112538 A. In such clamping holders, the cleaning utensil can have applied thereto a force directed towards the holding part. The holding part snaps from the release position into the holding position, and the cleaning utensil is secured. By pulling on the cleaning utensil, the holding part snaps from the holding position into the release position, and the cleaning utensil is thereby released.

Advantageously, the clamping holder is configured for holding long-handled cleaning tools, for example handled flat mops, handled wiping mops or brooms.

Preferably, the at least one clamping holder can be fixed or fixable to at least one functional device and/or to the at least one receiving device.

In particular, it is preferably provided for the at least one clamping holder to be releasably connectable to the at least one functional device and/or the at least one receiving device. For example, this allows a required number of clamping holders to be carried on the cleaning cart, depending on the cleaning tasks and preferences or needs of the user.

The clamping holders can have differing sizes, conforming to cleaning utensils of differing sizes.

It is advantageous for the at least one clamping holder to be connectable to and/or releasable from the receiving device and/or the functional device without tools and/or by hand.

It has proven to be advantageous for the at least one functional device and/or the at least one receiving device to comprise at least one fixing device for in particular releasably fixing the at least one clamping holder. The clamping holder can be fixed to the receiving device via the functional device and/or to the functional device.

Advantageously, here, a plurality of fixing devices is provided for the respective fixing of a clamping holder.

In particular, the possibility exists for the functional device to allow for at least one clamping holder, and preferably a plurality of clamping holders, to be attached to the receiving device and hence to the cleaning cart.

In particular, a functional device can be provided which is configured as an adapter device and has a base element to which at least one clamping holder is fixed or fixable.

To provide user-friendly handling, it can prove to be advantageous, for example, for the fixing device and a projection arranged at the at least one clamping holder to be configured to connect together in a push-and-twist type connection, wherein the projection is insertable in the fixing device in an insertion direction and lockable to the fixing device by rotation about an axis oriented in the insertion direction. For example, the push-and-twist connection allows for a bayonet style connection to be formed between the clamping holder and the fixing device for user-friendly and quick fastening of the clamping holder. Advantageously, the projection is spring-loaded in the fixing device in such a way that unintentional unlocking thereof can be obviated.

In particular, provision can be made for the fixing device to be arranged at the at least one functional device which comprises a preferably plate-shaped base element having at least one through-opening, and for the holding part, in the state of being fixed to the fixing device, and the fixing device to be arranged on sides of the base element that face away from each other, and for the projection to extend through the through-opening.

It is advantageous, in particular in combination with the last-mentioned preferred embodiment, for the at least one receiving device to comprise or form at least one recess in which the fixing device engages in a connection state of the at least one functional device to the receiving device. Here, in the fastened state of the functional device, the fixing device is inserted in the recess. This makes for a compact attachment of the at least one clamping holder to the receiving device.

It is advantageous for the cleaning system to comprise at least one holding part for cleaning utensils, which holding part has at least one hook element for suspending the cleaning utensil therefrom, wherein the at least one holding part can be fixed to the cleaning cart via at least one functional device. The versatility of the cleaning system is increased by the at least one holding part. Cleaning utensils can be suspended from the at least one hook element, and the hook element can be fixed to the cleaning cart by way of the functional device.

For example, the at least one holding part, with at least one holding section thereof, engages in a recess which is formed between the at least one functional device assuming a connection state and the cleaning cart, wherein the holding part is hangingly fixed to the functional device and/or the receiving device via the at least one holding section. For example, the holding section engages in the recess in a form-locking manner and hangs on the functional device and/or receiving device.

Advantageously, the cleaning system comprises at least one cover device which can be connected to the receiving device and which covers connecting elements arranged at the receiving device. For example, the cover device can comprise a cover element which comprises a panel for covering at least the connecting elements. Preferably, the receiving device can thereby be protected from tampering and/or ingress of dirt. For example, by covering the receiving device with no functional device attached, the cleaning cart can be imparted a more pleasing appearance.

Preferably, all connecting elements of the receiving devices can be covered via the cover element.

Preferably, the cover element is plate-shaped.

Advantageously, the at least one cover device does not project beyond an outer contour of the cleaning cart, advantageously wherein the cover device aligns with an outer contour of the cleaning cart.

Preferably, the functional devices and/or the at least one cover device are releasably connectable to the at least one receiving device. With respect to the functional devices, reference may be had to what has been described above. Preferably, the cover device can be released from the receiving device in order to attach to the cleaning cart a functional device in lieu of the cover device.

Preferably, provision can be made for at least one of the functional devices to comprise at least one blocking element by way of which the functional device is secured to the receiving device against release therefrom when the blocking element assumes a blocking position, and can be released from the receiving device when the blocking element assumes a release position. Preferably, the at least one blocking element is formed separately from connecting elements of the functional device.

In particular, the connecting elements of the at least one receiving device and of a respective functional device form a connecting device.

It is advantageous for two or more functional devices to comprise connecting elements of identical configuration. This allows for simplifying the structural configuration of the receiving device. For example, here, connecting elements can be arranged at the receiving device that can be coupled to each of the functional devices.

In practice, it can prove to be advantageous for the functional devices each to comprise a base element having a first side that faces towards the at least one receiving device and on which is arranged at least one connecting element, and a second side that faces away from the first side and on which is arranged at least one of the following:a handle element;a clamping holder for cleaning utensils;a locking element for connecting to a further cleaning cart, for example a locking element of a functional device held to the further cleaning cart.

It is advantageous for the at least one connecting element arranged at the at least one receiving device not to project beyond an outer contour of the cleaning cart. Accidental impact to the connecting element can thereby be prevented.

It is advantageous for the functional devices and the at least one receiving device to each comprise a plurality of functionally equivalent connecting elements. These functionally equivalent connecting elements are in each case arranged at a distance apart from each other at the receiving device and at the functional device, wherein in each case two or more connecting elements of the receiving device and of a respective functional device cooperate in the connection state thereof. By providing at least two connecting elements each at the receiving device and at the functional devices, a more reliable connection can be ensured. This is further helped by the distance between the respective connecting elements.

In particular, a plurality of functionally equivalent clamping elements and/or functionally equivalent latching elements can in each case be provided at the at least one receiving device and the respective functional device.

Generally, for example, a force-locking and/or form-locking connection of a respective functional device to the at least one receiving device is advantageous.

It can be advantageous for the connecting elements to comprise at least one receptacle and to comprise, in the connection state of the at least one functional device, at least one projection engaging in the receptacle, in particular wherein the at least one receptacle is arranged at the at least one receiving device, and the at least one projection is arranged at the respective functional device.

For example, the respective projection clampingly engages in the at least one receptacle, in particular in a form-locking manner. The projection can be a latching projection which latches with a latching receptacle.

In a preferred embodiment, the connecting elements comprise clamping elements via which the at least one functional device is clampingly connected to the at least one receiving device. In particular, a tapered channel-shaped clamping receptacle and a tapered frustopyramidally shaped or frustoconically shaped clamping projection which engages in the clamping receptacle in a form-locking manner can be provided as clamping elements.

The connecting elements in a preferred embodiment can comprise latching elements via which the at least one functional device is latchingly connected to the at least one receiving device. In particular, here, a releasable latching can be provided.

For example, latching hooks and latching receptacles are provided as latching elements which are in latching engagement one with the other.

It is advantageous for the functional devices to comprise a base element, at least one latching projection which resiliently projects therefrom, and at least one blocking element which is movably and in particular rotatably held to the base element, wherein, when in a blocking position, the at least one blocking element is in contact against the latching projection and, when in a release position, the latching projection is out of contact with the blocking element. In particular, this affords the possibility of a two-stage fixing of the functional device to the receiving device. The latching projection can latch with a corresponding latching receptacle of the receiving device. The functional device is hereby already secured to the receiving device. The adjustable blocking element is additionally provided. In this way, in the blocking position of the blocking element, since the blocking element is in contact against the latching projection, the latching projection is secured against unlatching. On the other hand, unlatching is enabled in the release position of the blocking element.

It can be provided that the blocking element, when in the blocking position, applies to the latching projection a blocking force acting on the at least one receiving device, and the latching projection, when in a release position, is out of contact with the blocking element and the blocking force removed. This allows for a form-locking and at the same time force-locking connection of the latching projection to the latching receptacle.

By way of example, the at least one blocking element is pivotably held to the base element for changing from the blocking position to the release position and vice versa.

It is advantageous for a plurality of latching projections to be provided at the respective functional device which are in each case in contact against the at least one blocking element in its blocking position. For example, at least two latching projections are provided between which the blocking element is arranged. In a preferred embodiment, for example, four latching projections are provided which are positioned around the blocking element and can in each case latch with the receiving device and be secured against unlatching by way of the blocking element.

Advantageously, the functional device comprises an indicating device for a user to determine whether the at least one blocking element assumes the blocking position or the release position. This provides a simple and intuitive way for the user to determine whether the functional device is reliably connected to the receiving device. The indicating device can, for example, be of static configuration and comprise pictograms by way of which a respective position of the blocking element can be recognized.

Advantageously, the cleaning cart comprises a plurality of receiving devices which are configured identically to one another. This increases the versatility of the cleaning system. A respective functional device can selectively be connected to one of the receiving devices.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, provision is made for the cleaning cart to comprise a frame.

By way of example, the frame can comprise a base part to which the rollers are held, and a frame part arranged above the base part and arranged at a distance apart from the base part.

By way of example, the base part can be referred to as the “frame lower part”.

The frame part can be referred to as the “frame upper part”, for example.

As used herein, positional and orientational terms, such as “above”, “top”, “below”, “bottom”, are to be understood to relate to an intended use of the cleaning system. In particular, here, the cleaning cart is supported via the rollers on the supporting surface, wherein the rollers are arranged at the bottom of the cleaning cart.

A corpus or a rack in particular can also be considered to be a frame in the present case.

The frame, in particular the corpus, can for example comprise or enclose a receiving space. By way of example, cleaning utensils can be received in the receiving space.

Preferably, provision can be made for the at least one receiving device to be arranged at the frame on the outer side thereof. In the present case, this can be understood to mean, in particular, that the at least one receiving device is arranged at the frame on a side thereof that faces away from the receiving space, for arrangement of the at least one functional device at the frame on the outer side thereof.

Provision can be made for at least one receiving device to be arranged at the frame part or to be formed integrally with the frame part. For example, this allows for the functional devices to be arranged on the cleaning cart at the top side thereof.

Alternatively or in addition, provision can be made for at least one receiving device to be arranged at the base part or to be formed integrally with the base part. For example, this allows for the functional devices to be arranged on the cleaning cart at the bottom side thereof.

Provision can be made for two or more receiving devices to be arranged or formed at the frame part and/or at the base part.

In particular, here, provision can be made for two receiving devices to be arranged at the frame part and/or at the base part on sides of the frame that face away from each other and/or on two sides of the frame that are adjacent to one another at an angle.

It can prove to be advantageous for the base part and/or the frame part to be rectangular-shaped in plan view and for a receiving device to be arranged on each of the four sides of the rectangle thus defined. This makes for a cleaning system having a particularly high versatility.

Preferably, the base part and/or the frame part comprises or forms at least one of the following:receiving elements for mounting side walls and/or doors of the cleaning cart;receiving elements for mounting profile elements via which the base part and the frame part are connected together.

This allows for integrating multiple functions in the base part and/or the frame part and simplifies the structural configuration of the cleaning system.

Preferably, the base part and/or the frame part is formed in one piece, in particular as a moulded plastics part.

FIG.1shows, in perspective representation, an advantageous embodiment of a cleaning system in accordance with the invention, generally designated by the reference numeral10. The cleaning system10comprises at least one cleaning cart. In the present case, two cleaning carts12and14are provided.

The cleaning carts12,14serve to receive cleaning tools and further cleaning utensils, for example receptacles for cleaning liquids, waste, packs of cleaning chemicals, cleaning cloths, and the like, not shown in the drawing. In particular, the cleaning system10is used in the performance of cleaning tasks that are to be manually carried out in larger buildings, for example office buildings, hotels, nursing facilities, hospitals, airports, event buildings, or the like.

The cleaning carts12,14in the present case have different dimensions. In particular, in the present case, the cleaning cart14is about twice the size of the cleaning cart12. Here, the cleaning cart12has in plan view a generally square basic shape and the cleaning cart14a generally rectangular basic shape. However, this is not limiting to the scope of the present invention.

A respective cleaning cart12,14comprises a frame16which comprises a base part18and a frame part20spaced apart therefrom in a height direction. In particular, in the present case, the base part18is a frame lower part and the frame part20is a frame upper part.

As used herein, positional and orientational terms, such as “bottom” “top”, “below”, “above”, or the like, are to be understood to relate to an intended use of the cleaning carts12,14. Here, a respective cleaning cart12,14is positioned on a supporting surface24via rollers22held to the base part18. A contact plane defined by the rollers22coincides with the plane defined by the supporting surface24.

A respective cleaning cart12,14can be moved on the supporting surface24via the rollers22.

The rollers of the cleaning cart can be steered rollers or unsteered rollers.

The supporting surface24is assumed to be oriented horizontally, without limitation.

The frame16further comprises profile elements26by which the base part18and the frame part20are connected together, in particular at corner regions of the respective cleaning cart12,14.

A respective cleaning cart12,14forms a corpus28having side walls30and a top wall32. The corpus28encloses a receiving space in which cleaning utensils can be received. At least part of the side walls30can be formed by doors31which can be opened to access cleaning utensils in the receiving space.

Preferably, the base part18and the frame part20are one-piece constructions made from a plastics material.

The cleaning system10comprises at least one receiving device34at each cleaning cart12,14. A respective functional device36comprised by the cleaning system10can be connected to a respective receiving device34and can thereby be attached to the cleaning cart12,14.

In accordance with the invention, at least one cleaning cart12,14and a plurality of different functional devices36are provided.

In the present case, the cleaning system10comprises a plurality of functional devices36for selective use on a respective cleaning cart12,14and/or for selective operation of a respective cleaning cart12,14. The functional devices36are configured differently from one another with respect to their respective function and/or use, as will be explained in the following.

In the present case, it is advantageously provided for each cleaning cart12,14to comprise two or more receiving devices34. Advantageously, the receiving devices34of a respective cleaning cart12,14are of identical configuration. In a corresponding manner, the receiving devices34of different cleaning carts12,14are of identical configuration so that, in particular, all receiving devices34of the cleaning system10can be of identical configuration.

Correspondingly, it is preferably provided for one of the functional devices36to be selectively connected to one of the receiving devices34of the cleaning cart12or to one of the receiving devices34of the cleaning cart14.

Advantageously, provision is made for at least one receiving device34to be arranged or formed at a respective frame part20and/or at a respective base part18. Here, for example, it can prove to be advantageous to provide, at the frame part20, a receiving device34for arranging a functional device36in the form of a handle device, or a coupling device, or for receiving cleaning utensils. For example, it can be advantageous to provide, at the base part18, a receiving device34for arranging a functional device36in the form of a coupling device, or for receiving cleaning utensils.

In the present example, the cleaning cart12comprises a plurality of receiving devices34at the frame part20. Here, the receiving devices34are arranged on respective sides of the in plan view rectangularly shaped frame part20, in particular on sides38thereof that face away from one another and on sides38,39thereof that are arranged at an angle to one another. Of these, only one side38and one side39are visible inFIGS.2and7.

The base part18of the cleaning cart12comprises receiving devices34on sides38thereof that face away from one another. Of these, only one side38is visible inFIG.2.

The frame part20of the cleaning cart14comprises receiving devices34on sides38thereof that face away from each other and on sides38,39thereof that are adjacent to one another at an angle. Of these, only two sides38,39are visible inFIG.2.

The base part18of the cleaning cart14comprises receiving devices34on sides38thereof that face away from each other. Of these, only one side38is visible inFIG.2.

As can be seen fromFIGS.7and8in particular, a respective receiving device34is arranged on an outer side40of the frame16, and frame part20in particular. This applies analogously to the base part18. The functional device36arranged at the receiving device34is thereby arranged on a side of the frame16that faces away from the receiving space.

The receiving device34comprises connecting elements42. In the present case, two connecting elements42are provided, positioned at a distance apart relative to each other and functionally equivalent to one another. In particular, here, these connecting elements42are clamping elements44in the form of clamping receptacles46. In the present example, the clamping receptacles46are channel-shaped with a frustoconical shape having a taper starting from the outer side40.

Furthermore, other connecting elements42are provided, arranged at a distance apart from each other and functionally equivalent to one another and, in the present case, in the form of latching elements48. The latching elements48are latching receptacles50. The latching receptacles50extend in the shape of a channel, starting from the outer side40. Here, the latching receptacles50can have a tapered configuration. The latching receptacles50comprise an undercut

The connecting elements42are positioned such that a respective clamping element44and a respective latching element48are positioned directly laterally next to one another. Functionally equivalent clamping elements44and latching elements48are formed symmetrically about a central transverse plane54at the receiving device34.

The connecting elements42extend starting from an end wall56of the frame part20, which end wall56in the present case is substantially plate-shaped. The end wall56is set back with respect to an outer contour58of the frame part20via a step60.

In particular, the connecting elements42do not extend beyond the outer contour58.

The end wall56has further formed therein through-openings62, in the present case three in number. A first through-opening62is arranged in the area of the central transverse plane54, the other through-openings62are positioned symmetrically to one another about the central transverse plane54. Via a respective through-opening62, a fixing device at a functional device36can engage in a recess64arranged behind the end wall56.

The base part18and the frame part20in the present case further comprise receiving elements for receiving the profile elements26and the side walls30, in particular the doors31.

The various functional devices36, already mentioned, which expand the scope of application of the cleaning system10, in the present case comprise a handle device66(FIGS.3to5), two coupling devices68(FIGS.1and6), an adapter device70with clamping holders72(FIGS.14to16) and a handle device74(FIG.17).

A respective functional device36is connectable to a respective receiving device34. In particular, this gives the possibility of selectively connecting a respective functional device36to a respective particular receiving device34. The cleaning system10is thereby rendered highly versatile. For example, the selection of a desired functional device36can be made on the manufacturer's side by default or according to customer's preferences. Alternatively or in addition, the desired functional device can be attached to the receiving device34during setup of the cleaning cart12,14.

In each case, it can be seen that a respective functional device36comprises a base element76. The base element76is, at least in sections thereof, dimensioned such that it can be placed in contact against the end wall56within the area surrounded by the step60. Correspondingly, the base element76is preferably plate-shaped or comprises a plate-shaped section.

Arranged at the base element76are connecting elements78. The connecting elements78project from the base element76in a direction towards the receiving device34. The connecting elements78are identical in each case for the functional devices36to enable connection thereof to the receiving device34.

In the present case, the connecting elements78correspond to the connecting elements42. In particular, the possibility exists for the respective functional device36to be releasably connected to the respective receiving device34. Here, both the connecting and the releasing can be effected by hand and without tools. The cleaning system10is thereby rendered particularly easy to handle and versatile. For example, the possibility exists of removing unused functional devices36. Alternatively or in addition, provision can be made for the user to use the functional device(s) that is or are best suited to the user's preferences and/or the cleaning task to be performed.

As can be seen fromFIGS.4and16in particular, using the example of the handle device66and the example of the adapter device70, the connecting elements78comprise a pair of functionally equivalent clamping elements80arranged at a distance apart from each other at the base element76and in the present case configured as clamping projections82. The clamping projection82has an approximately frustoconically shaped configuration and conforms in its shape to the clamping receptacle46.

The connecting elements78further comprise functionally equivalent latching elements84corresponding to each other and arranged at a distance apart from each other at the base element76, in the present case configured as latching hooks86. The latching hooks86are latching projections which are resiliently held to the base element76.

In the present case, two times four latching elements84are provided. In each case, four latching elements84are arranged in grouped relation to each other laterally next to a respective clamping projection82. In each case, two latching elements84are provided in opposing relation to one another.

The latching elements84can engage in the latching receptacles50. Here, a respective latching element84extends adjacent to a respective wall of the latching receptacle50. In each case, the latching hook86can latch with the latching receptacle50at the undercut52thereof.

The connecting elements78are arranged at the base element76such that the clamping elements80are arranged symmetrically to each other and the two ensembles of four latching elements84each are symmetric to each other. In the connection state of the functional device36to the receiving device34, the corresponding plane of symmetry is the central transverse plane54. The functional device36can have a generally symmetrical configuration relative to this plane of symmetry.

For connecting a respective functional device36to a receiving device34, the clamping projections82are inserted into the clamping receptacles46. In each case, four latching hooks86are inserted into a latching receptacle50. The functional device36is moved until the base element76is in contact against the end wall56. The clamping projections82clamp against the clamping receptacles46, and the latching hooks86engage in the undercuts52.

Conversely, to release the functional device36, it is pulled off the receiving device34. The latching hooks86and the latching receptacles50unlatch, and the clamping of the clamping projections82against the clamping receptacles46is released.

However, the functional devices36can comprise at least one blocking element88by way of which the latching of the latching hooks86with the latching receptacles50can be secured against unlatching. In the present case, the handle devices66and74, the coupling devices68and the adapter device70each comprise blocking elements88. However, here, the configuration of the blocking elements88for the adapter device70differs from the configuration of the blocking elements88for the three other functional devices36.

Reference is first made toFIGS.8to11regarding the handle devices66,74and the coupling devices68.

Each functional device36comprises two blocking elements88. Here, a respective blocking element88is associated with a group of four latching hooks86.

The blocking element88has a blocking projection90. The blocking projection90is +-shaped in cross-section and defines an axis92.

The blocking projection90is arranged between the latching hooks86. Here, the blocking projection90is dimensioned such that, in a blocking position of the blocking element88, a respective segment94can be in contact against a latching hook86, on a side thereof that faces away from the latching receptacle50. This prevents the latching hook86from being allowed to move relative to the base element76and thereby become unlatched from the latching receptacle50.

Provision can be made for the respective segment94, in the blocking position of the blocking element88, to apply to the latching hook86a blocking force directed towards the latching receptacle50. The latching hook86is thereby secured to the latching receptacle50not only by form-locking connection via the blocking element88but in addition via force-locking connection.

By moving, and in particular rotating, the blocking element88about the axis92, the contact between the segment94and the latching hook86can be cancelled. The angle of rotation is, for example, substantially 45°. In this case, the segments94are oriented such that they are arranged between latching hooks86that are adjacent to one another.

Once rotated, the blocking elements88assume a release position. In the release position, the latching hooks86can be moved relative to the base element76and thereby unlatched from the latching receptacles50.

For connecting the functional device36, the blocking element88assumes the release position so that the latching hooks86can resiliently deform and subsequently engage in the undercuts52. The blocking element88can be transferred to the blocking position by rotation about the axis92.

As a result, in addition to the clamping and latching connection of the functional device36to the receiving device34, further securement of the functional device36is ensured via the blocking elements88.

The blocking projection90extends through a through-opening96formed in the base element76. On the side facing away from the receiving device34, the blocking element88has an actuating element98, in the present case a projection oriented away from the blocking projection90in a direction transverse to the axis92. The actuating element98facilitates to the user the handling of the blocking element88.

As can be seen fromFIGS.5,6,12and17in particular, the respective functional device36has an indicating device100. The indicating device100comprises pictograms102,104arranged at the base element76, for example embossed or integrally formed thereon.

The pictograms102,104are arranged such that they can be covered by the actuating element98. Depending on what position the actuating element98is in, the pictogram102,104that symbolizes the position of the blocking element88is covered.

The pictogram102is an open lock, whereby the release position of the blocking element88is symbolized. The release position is assumed when the functional device36is being connected to the receiving device34(FIGS.5and6). The pictogram104is a closed lock, this being indicative of the blocking element88assuming the blocking position. The pictogram104is covered when the functional device36has been connected to the receiving device34and the blocking element88assumes the blocking position (FIG.17).

Differently from what has been described above, the blocking elements88in the adapter device70have a different type of actuating element98. The actuating element98is of disk-shaped configuration and engages in the through-opening96. On the side of the actuating element98that faces away from the receiving device34, a slot-shaped or cross-slot-shaped recess106can be formed (FIG.14).

A user can engage the recess106by inserting for example a fingernail, a coin or a screwdriver in order to rotate the blocking element88about the axis92.

In particular, here, provision can be made for the orientation of the slot in a direction towards one of the pictograms102,104to indicate the state of the blocking element88. For example, in the example ofFIG.14, the recess106points to the closed lock of the pictogram104, this being indicative of the blocking position of the blocking element88.

As can be seen fromFIGS.14and16, the adapter device70comprises at least one clamping holder72. Of these, only one clamping holder72is shown inFIG.16. In total, a maximum of three clamping holders72can be connected to the receiving device34via the adapter device70, although this number could be different.

The clamping holder72comprises a base element108and, held thereto, a variable-shape, and in particular elastically deformable, holding part110. The holding part110is configured to assume a release position (FIGS.14and16). In the release position, cleaning utensils, such as the handle of a cleaning tool, can be placed in contact against the holding part110. With the application of force, the holding part110can snap over from the expanded release position to a holding position in which it at least partially engages behind the cleaning utensil. The cleaning utensil is thereby held to the clamping holder72. Here, the cleaning utensil engages (not shown) in a recess112at the base element108.

Conversely, the cleaning utensil can be removed by pulling thereon. Here, the holding part110deforms and snaps from the holding position into the release position.

For fixing a respective clamping holder72, the adapter device70has a fixing device114. The fixing device114is arranged at the base element76on the side thereof that faces towards the receiving device34. A through-opening116associated with the fixing device114is provided at the base element76.

The clamping holder72comprises a projection118. In the present case, the projection118is arranged at the base element108, on the side thereof that faces away from the holding part110.

The fixing device114and the projection118are configured to be connected by way of a bayonet style push-and-twist connection.

To this end, the projection118is inserted through the through-opening116into the fixing device114and rotated substantially 90° with respect to an axis120defined by the direction of insertion. The projection118is thereby locked to the fixing device114. It is advantageous here if a spring element is provided to make unintentional unlocking more difficult.

In the target position of the clamping holder72as shown in the exploded representation ofFIG.16, the clamping holder72would first have to be rotated through 90° about the axis120, the projection118inserted into the fixing device114, followed by rotating the clamping holder72through 90° again (arrows122,124).

In the connection state of the adapter device70, the fixing device114extends through the through-opening62and engages in the recess64.

It is advantageous for the clamping holders72to be releasably connectable to the adapter device70. Depending on the cleaning task to be performed and/or preferences of the user, the required number of clamping holders72can be carried at the desired position. In particular, the clamping holder72can be connected to and released from the fixing device114by hand and without tools.

As can be seen fromFIGS.3to6,9and17in particular, at least one clamping holder72can also be attached to the handle device66, the respective coupling device68and the handle device74.

By way of example, the handle device66comprises one fixing device114.

The coupling device68likewise comprises one fixing device114(not illustrated),FIG.6shows the through-opening116associated therewith.

The handle device74allows up to three clamping holders72to be connected. In

FIG.17, the corresponding fixing devices114are not illustrated, but the through-openings116associated therewith are shown.

The coupling device68and the handle device74have a socket-shaped base element (FIGS.6and17). Said base element76is dimensioned such that the fixing device(s)114, in the connection state of the coupling device68and the handle device74, is (are) arranged outside the receiving device34.

In the following, the handle devices66and74and the coupling device68will be discussed.

The handle device66has two handle elements126. The handle elements126are fixedly and non-movably arranged at the base element76.

In the present case, the handle elements126are oriented in a plane parallel to the contact plane. The user can vertically grasp around the handle elements126when adopting a horizontal hand pose.

The handle device74comprises two handle elements128arranged at a distance apart from each other at the base element76. The handle elements128are oriented perpendicularly to the contact plane, in particular vertically. For example, the user can horizontally grasp around the handle elements126when adopting a vertical hand pose.

The handle elements128can be pivoted in common about a pivot axis130, relative to the base element76. The pivot axis130is oriented parallel to the contact plane. This allows the user to adjust the handle elements128in height and thereby adjust them to the user's body height.

A securing device132is provided in order to secure the handle elements128against pivoting relative to the base element76. In the present case, the securing device132is configured as a quick-action clamping device which can preferably be operated by the user by hand and without tools.

In the present case, the cleaning system10comprises at least one holding part134for cleaning utensils.FIG.17illustratively shows two holding parts134.

The respective holding part134comprises two hook elements136for suspending cleaning utensils therefrom.

It is advantageous for the holding part134to be fixable to the cleaning cart12,14via a functional device36, in the present example the handle device74. To this end, the holding part134comprises a holding section138. The holding section138in the present case comprises two projections140, configured as hooks. Via the projections140, the holding section138can preferably engage in a form-locking manner in a recess formed between the base element76and the receiving device34. The projection140is hooked onto the base element76.

Depending on the needs of the user and/or cleaning utensils to be carried along, the holding part134can selectively be attached to the cleaning cart12,14by being positioned between the functional device36and the cleaning cart12,14, or removed from there.

As can be seen fromFIGS.1and6in particular, the cleaning system10in the present case comprises two coupling devices68. The coupling devices68are preferably configured as identical parts. Each coupling device68can be connected to one of the receiving devices34. If a coupling device68is attached to each cleaning cart12,14, the cleaning carts12,14can be connected together via the coupling devices68.

In particular, a releasable connection is provided so that the cleaning carts12,14can be separated from each other again as required.FIG.1shows a connection state of the two cleaning carts12,14.

In particular, the connection of the coupling devices68to each other and their release from one another can be accomplished by hand and without tools.

For connecting the coupling devices68, each of them has, at a socket section142thereof, a locking element144in the form of a pin. A corresponding locking element148in the form of a receptacle for the pin is provided on a further socket section146. The coupling devices68are positioned relative to each other such that a respective pin can engage in the respective receptacle. When the pin is removed from the receptacle, the coupling devices68can be released from one another.

The cleaning system10can comprise at least one cover device150(FIG.13). Preferably, a plurality of cover devices150can be provided,

Each cover device150comprises connecting elements152that can couple to the connecting elements42. In the present example, the connecting elements152are two latching hooks which are configured identically to the latching hooks86.

The latching hooks project from a plate-shaped cover element154which is dimensioned such that it can be placed in contact against the end wall56, in surrounded relation to the step60. The latching hooks latch with the latching receptacles50. The receiving device34is covered via the cover element154. This is illustratively shown inFIG.2at side39, at the top of the cleaning cart12, and inFIG.1at side38, at the bottom of the cleaning cart12,14.

LIST OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS