DE102023105939A1 - DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

In order to improve a device, which is in particular a hand-held device and/or hot fluid device and/or cleaning device, comprising a device housing, it is proposed that the device housing defines a housing interior and a hot fluid generation unit of the device and in particular device technology of the device are arranged in the housing interior, and wherein a handle region of the device for a handle unit is arranged above a water tank region for a water tank with respect to a vertical direction of the device housing, and wherein an arrangement point for an application unit is formed on a front side of the device housing, and the front side and a rear side of the device housing are opposite sides of the device housing in a main direction of the device housing, and the main direction runs at least approximately perpendicular to the vertical direction.

Description

The invention relates to a device, in particular a hand-held device and/or a hot fluid device and/or cleaning device.

The object underlying the invention is to provide an improved device.

In embodiments of the invention, this object is achieved by a device which comprises a device housing, wherein the device housing defines a housing interior and a hot fluid generation unit of the device and in particular device technology of the device are arranged in the housing interior and wherein a handle region of the device for a handle unit is arranged above a water tank region for a water tank with respect to a vertical direction of the device housing and wherein an arrangement point for an application unit is formed on a front side of the device housing and the front side and a rear side of the device housing are opposite sides of the device housing in a main direction of the device housing and the main direction runs at least approximately perpendicular to the vertical direction.

In particular, an advantage of embodiments of the solution according to the invention is that a compact arrangement in the housing interior and/or a compact device housing is made possible.

In some preferred embodiments, the device is at least partially a modular device. In particular, at least one unit of the device is a separate module, for example at least the handle unit and/or the application unit is a separate module. In particular, the device housing is a housing of a device module.

In some favorable embodiments, the device is an at least partially, in particular at least largely, integral device. In particular, at least most of the units of the device are integrally formed. For example, at least the handle unit and/or the application unit are formed by the at least partially integral device. In particular, the device housing is a housing of the at least partially integral device.

No further details have been provided so far regarding the handle unit and the design of the handle region of the device housing.

Advantageously, the handle unit comprises at least one handle element which forms a handle for the device.

In some advantageous embodiments, the handle unit is a handle module that is separate from the device housing and has at least one handle element. In particular, the device housing is a housing of a device module.

In some advantageous embodiments, the device housing has a recess in the area of the handle region for a separate handle unit, in particular for a separate handle module.

In some advantageous embodiments, the handle unit is at least partially formed from the device housing. In particular, at least one handle element of the handle unit is formed from the device housing.

In particular, the handle element of the handle unit has two opposite longitudinal ends.

In advantageous embodiments, the handle element of the handle unit is arranged on at least one of two opposite longitudinal ends of the handle element on at least one further element of the handle unit, preferably arranged in one piece. In particular, at least one of the embodiments described below is provided.

In some advantageous embodiments, at least one further element of the handle unit is arranged on each of two opposite longitudinal ends of the handle element, in particular arranged in one piece, so that in particular the handle element has no free longitudinal end.

In some preferred embodiments, at least one end, in particular one of two longitudinal ends, of the handle unit is a free end.

Preferably, at least one support element for the handle unit, for example as part of the handle unit, is arranged on the handle element, in particular for at least partially supporting the handle element on at least a part of the device housing.

In particular, at least one further element, which is arranged at a longitudinal end of the handle element, is a support element for the handle unit.

Advantageously, the support on at least one side, preferably on both sides, of the handle element, a stable design is achieved. In particular, the support on at least one side, preferably on both sides, ensures safe and/or user-friendly handling of the device.

Advantageously, the device housing comprises at least one support element for at least partially supporting the handle unit.

In some advantageous embodiments, the handle unit comprises a contact element and the contact element is designed and arranged to rest on and/or support the support element of the device housing. This is particularly advantageous in the case of a handle unit designed as a separate handle module.

Advantageously, the contact element comprises a contact surface, in particular of a large area, and at least in an assembled state, the contact element rests with its contact surface on the support element of the device housing.

In particular, the support element has a preferably large-area support surface, against which the handle unit rests with its contact element, in particular with the contact surface of the contact element, at least in an assembled state.

Advantageously, the contact element is arranged on the handle element in particular via at least one support element.

Advantageously, the contact element is arranged on the two support elements and extends between them.

In some favorable embodiments, the support element is at least partially formed by the handle unit. In particular, the support element is arranged on at least one support element, for example on the two support elements. In particular, the support element extends at least between the two support elements. This is advantageously provided in embodiments in which the handle unit is at least partially formed from the device housing.

Preferably, the handle unit forms at least most of its elements integrally. In particular, at least the handle element and/or at least one support element, preferably two support elements, and/or the contact element or the support element are integrally formed by the handle unit.

In particular, the support element delimits the grip region in the vertical direction. In particular, the grip region is located at least above the support element.

In particular, in embodiments with a support element having a support surface, the support surface delimits the grip region and advantageously the recess for the grip unit is located above the support surface and in particular the support surface delimits the recess in the vertical direction downwards.

In some embodiments, the handle unit is formed in particular by the device housing in relation to the vertical direction above the support element.

In favorable embodiments, the handle unit has a through-opening. The through-opening is advantageously provided and designed for a user's hand to reach through in order to grasp and hold the handle of the handle unit.

In particular, the handle element limits the access opening on one side.

Advantageously, the access opening is partially surrounded by at least one support element, preferably by the two support elements.

For example, the access opening is surrounded by the contact element or the support element, in particular opposite the handle element.

Advantageously, the access opening is enclosed on the circumference transverse to a access direction by elements of the handle unit.

In particular, the penetration direction runs at least approximately parallel to a transverse direction of the device housing.

A transverse direction of the device housing runs transversely, in particular at least approximately perpendicular, to the main direction and/or the vertical direction of the device housing.

Preferably, the grip region extends in the transverse direction of the device housing continuously along the extension of the device housing in this transverse direction.

Conveniently, the handle region extends into a rear area of the device housing in relation to the main direction.

Preferably, the handle region extends from the rear of the device housing into a rear area of the device housing.

• - dass sich die Griffregion höchstens entlang von 70%, insbesondere von höchstens 60%, der gesamten Längserstreckung des Gerätegehäuses in der Hauptrichtung erstreckt, und/oder
• - dass sich die Griffregion mindestens entlang von 30%, insbesondere von mindestens 40%, der gesamten Längserstreckung des Gerätegehäuses in der Hauptrichtung erstreckt, und/oder
• - dass sich die Griffregion zumindest in etwa in einer bezogen auf die Hauptrichtung hinteren Hälfte des Gerätegehäuses erstreckt.

In favorable embodiments, the grip region extends at least approximately along half of a longitudinal extension of the device housing in the main direction. In particular, it is provided that

• - that the handle region extends along a maximum of 70%, in particular a maximum of 60%, of the total longitudinal extension of the device housing in the main direction, and/or
• - that the handle region extends at least along 30%, in particular at least 40%, of the entire longitudinal extension of the device housing in the main direction, and/or
• - that the handle region extends at least approximately in a rear half of the device housing in relation to the main direction.

In advantageous embodiments, the device housing forms an arrangement section with at least one arrangement point for a handle unit and/or an arrangement point for an application unit.

• - dass der Anordnungsabschnitt bezogen auf die Vertikalrichtung und die Hauptrichtung des Gerätegehäuses in einem oberen und vorderen Bereich des Gerätegehäuses ausgebildet ist, und/oder
• - dass an dem Anordnungsabschnitt zumindest eine Befestigungseinheit für eine Griffeinheit und/oder eine Befestigungseinheit für eine Applikationseinheit ausgebildet ist, und/oder
• - dass an dem Anordnungsabschnitt zumindest ein Teil der Griffeinheit und/oder zumindest ein Teil der Applikationseinheit ausgebildet ist.

In particular, at least one of the following training courses is provided,

• - that the arrangement section is formed in an upper and front region of the device housing with respect to the vertical direction and the main direction of the device housing, and/or
• - that at least one fastening unit for a handle unit and/or one fastening unit for an application unit is formed on the arrangement section, and/or
• - that at least a part of the handle unit and/or at least a part of the application unit is formed on the arrangement section.

For example, a fastening unit for a handle unit, in particular designed as a separate handle module, is formed at the arrangement location for a handle unit.

For example, at least a part of the handle unit, in particular the handle element, is formed at the arrangement point for the handle unit. This is advantageously provided if the handle unit is at least partially, in particular at least largely, formed from the device housing.

In advantageous embodiments, a support surface for the handle unit is formed on the arrangement section.

In particular, the arrangement section extends in the main direction at least substantially from the front side to the handle region.

In particular, the grip region is delimited in relation to the main direction towards the front by at least a region of the arrangement section.

In particular, this delimiting region of the arrangement section has the arrangement location for the handle unit. Preferably, this delimiting region of the arrangement section has a support surface for at least part of the handle unit. Advantageously, the support surface at least partially surrounds the arrangement location.

For example, a fastening unit for an application unit, in particular designed as a separate application module, is formed at the arrangement point for an application unit.

For example, at least part of the application unit is formed at the arrangement location for the application unit. In particular, the application unit is formed at least partially, preferably largely, from the device housing.

For example, an arrangement direction of the handle unit at the arrangement location for the handle unit is oriented obliquely with respect to the main direction and/or the vertical direction.

Advantageously, the arrangement direction encloses an angle with the main direction which is greater than 20°, in particular greater than 30°, and/or which is smaller than 80°, in particular smaller than 70°, for example smaller than 60°.

In particular, the arrangement direction encloses an angle with the vertical direction which is in particular greater than 20°, for example greater than 30°, and/or which is smaller than 80°, in particular smaller than 70°, for example smaller than 60°.

In particular, an arrangement direction of the handle unit at the arrangement location for the handle unit is defined by an extension of the fastening unit for the handle unit formed at the arrangement location, in particular an extension of a fastening receptacle of the fastening unit, or by the extension of a part of the handle unit formed at the arrangement location.

Advantageously, the handle element extends, for example at least between the two opposite longitudinal ends, at least approximately parallel to the main direction, in particular at least in an assembled state.

The handle unit advantageously has a curved arrangement element, so that the handle unit can be arranged in the oblique arrangement direction at the arrangement point for the handle unit and, on the other hand, the handle element extends at least approximately parallel to the main direction, at least in the assembled state. In particular, the arrangement element merges into the handle element at one end and the arrangement element can at least be arranged at the arrangement point at one arrangement end. The arrangement element is advantageously curved between its two ends.

Depending on the embodiment, the design of the arrangement element at its arrangement end is different. For example, a fastening unit is formed at the arrangement end, in particular if the handle unit is designed as a separate handle module. For example, the arrangement end is formed at the arrangement point, in particular if the handle unit is at least partially formed from the device housing, and preferably the arrangement section merges into the arrangement element, in particular integrally.

It is particularly advantageous if the arrangement point for an application unit is oriented obliquely downwards with respect to the main direction and the vertical direction.

For example, the fastening unit for an application module formed at the arrangement location, in particular a fastening receptacle of the fastening unit, extends obliquely downwards.

For example, the part of the application unit formed at the arrangement point extends obliquely downwards from the arrangement point.

In particular, the arrangement point oriented obliquely downwards is defined by an arrangement direction of the application unit oriented obliquely downwards. The arrangement direction advantageously forms an angle with the main direction that is greater than 20°, in particular greater than 30°, and/or less than 80°, in particular less than 70°, for example less than 60°. In particular, the arrangement direction forms an angle with the vertical direction that is in particular greater than 20°, for example greater than 30°, and/or less than 80°, in particular less than 70°, for example less than 60°.

For example, the arrangement direction is defined by an extension of the fastening unit formed at the arrangement location for the application unit and/or the part of the application unit formed at this arrangement location.

It is particularly advantageous if the handle unit and the application unit can be arranged at least along an arrangement axis on the arrangement section.

Preferably, the arrangement axis runs obliquely to the main direction and/or obliquely to the vertical direction.

Advantageously, an axial direction of the arrangement axis encloses an angle with the main direction that is greater than 20°, in particular greater than 30°, and/or less than 80°, in particular less than 70°, for example less than 60°. In particular, an axial direction of the arrangement axis encloses an angle with the vertical direction that is in particular greater than 20°, for example greater than 30°, and/or less than 80°, in particular less than 70°, for example less than 60°.

In particular, an axial direction of the arrangement axis is defined by at least the arrangement direction of the handle unit and/or the arrangement direction of the application unit and/or at least by the orientation of the arrangement location for the handle unit and/or the arrangement location for the application unit.

In particular, an advantage of the arrangement of the handle unit and the application unit along the arrangement axis on the arrangement section is that, due to this essentially rectilinear arrangement, bending forces in the arrangement section are at least reduced or can even be completely avoided and thus the arrangement section is less stressed and, for example, a risk of the arrangement section breaking is at least reduced.

In particular, the arrangement of the handle unit and the application unit along the arrangement axis is advantageous in an at least partially modular construction of the device, since this enables an at least substantially straight-line composite construction from the application unit to the handle unit.

In particular, the arrangement axis runs through the arrangement point for the handle unit and the arrangement point for the application unit.

In particular, an outer wall segment of the device housing is formed on the arrangement section.

Advantageously, the outer wall segment of the arrangement section extends at least between the arrangement location for the handle unit and the arrangement location for the application unit.

• - dass das schräge Wandsegment an dem Anordnungsabschnitt zumindest näherungsweise parallel zu der Anordnungsachse verläuft, und/oder
• - dass das schräge Wandsegment an dem Anordnungsabschnitt von der Frontseite schräg zu einer Oberseite des Gerätegehäuses verläuft und insbesondere zu der Griffregion hin verläuft.

In particular, the outer wall segment on the arrangement section runs obliquely to the main direction and/or obliquely to the vertical direction of the device housing. In particular, at least one of the following is provided,

• - that the inclined wall segment on the arrangement section runs at least approximately parallel to the arrangement axis, and/or
• - that the inclined wall segment on the arrangement section runs obliquely from the front side to an upper side of the device housing and in particular runs towards the handle region.

Advantageously, the inclined wall segment achieves a stable formation in the arrangement section, in particular if at least the handle unit and/or the application unit can be arranged in an inclined arrangement direction.

Preferably, device electronics are arranged at least partially, in particular at least mostly, in the arrangement section.

No further details have been provided so far regarding the possibilities for interaction between a user and the device.

Preferably, the device comprises at least one display device with at least one display element. For example, at least one operating state of the device can be displayed using the display device.

In particular, information and/or instructions about the device and/or units of the device can be presented to a user.

In particular, the device comprises at least one operating device with at least one operating element for operating the device.

Advantageously, a user can use the operating device and its exactly one control element or its multiple control elements to at least switch the device on and off and/or switch between different operating modes and/or perform a necessary action on the device.

In particularly advantageous embodiments, the device, in particular the device housing, has at least one interaction side.

In particular, at least one display element of the display device and preferably at least most of the display elements of the display device are arranged on the interaction side. In particular, at least one operating element of the operating device and preferably at least most of the operating elements of the operating device are arranged on the interaction side.

In particularly favorable embodiments, the interaction side is formed at least substantially on the arrangement section and preferably on its preferably obliquely extending wall segment.

For example, one advantage of this is that the display elements on the interaction side are easily visible to a user. In particular, the control elements on the interaction side are easily accessible to a user, especially with the hand holding the handle on the handle unit.

No further details have been provided so far regarding further developments of the device and/or the device housing.

In particular, a recess for receiving a water tank, in particular a water tank that can be detachably attached, is formed in the water tank region of the device housing.

In particular, the recess for the water tank is located on the back of the device.

Advantageously, a fastening mechanism for detachably fastening a water tank to the device housing is arranged in the water tank region. For example, the fastening mechanism is at least partially formed from the device housing.

In favorable embodiments, the handle region and the water tank region are spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction.

In particular, the device housing has a rear section. In particular, the rear section formed from at least part of the device housing.

Preferably, the rear portion extends in the main direction of the device housing at least along the handle region.

Preferably, the rear portion extends in the main direction of the device housing at least along the water tank region.

In particular, the rear portion is defined as extending forward in the main direction as the extent of that region of the handle region and the water tank region which extends further forward in the main direction extends forward.

It is particularly advantageous if the rear section of the device housing extends between the handle region and the water tank region to the back of the device housing.

Conveniently, the rear portion of the device housing limits the handle region and/or the water tank region in relation to the vertical direction.

In particular, the rear portion of the device housing extends between the recess in the handle region and the recess in the water tank region to the rear of the device housing.

In particular, the recess is formed in the vertical direction up to the rear portion and is thus delimited by the rear portion. In particular, the recess is formed in the water tank region in the vertical direction up to the rear portion and is thus delimited by the rear portion.

In particular, the device comprises a power supply unit, which is advantageously arranged at least largely in the interior of the housing.

In particular, the power supply unit is at least partially, preferably at least mostly, arranged in the rear section.

Advantageously, the power supply unit is arranged at least partially between the handle region and the water tank region with respect to the vertical direction.

In some favorable embodiments, the power supply unit is designed to be connectable to an external power connection. In particular, the power supply unit then supplies units and/or device technology of the device with electrical energy by providing a connection to the external power connection. For example, the power supply unit comprises at least one cable with a power plug.

In particular, a power supply opening for the power supply unit is formed on a rear side of the device housing, in particular on the rear section. For example, the power supply opening is provided and designed for a cable to be passed through.

In some favorable embodiments, the power supply unit is designed for an internal provision of electrical energy in the device. In particular, the power supply unit comprises an energy storage device, for example a battery and/or a rechargeable battery. In particular, the power supply unit supplies units and/or technology of the device with electrical energy provided from the energy storage device.

In advantageous embodiments, the device comprises at least one cartridge.

In particular, the cartridge is arranged inside the housing.

Advantageously, the cartridge is arranged adjacent to the water tank region, in particular adjacent to the water tank region with respect to the main direction.

In particular, the cartridge comprises a container with an interior space, wherein advantageously an inlet for a liquid opens into the interior space at an inlet opening and an outlet for a liquid opens into the interior space at an outlet opening.

In particular, the container of the cartridge comprises several wall sections and the several wall sections delimit the interior space.

In advantageous embodiments, the container expands at least substantially in an expansion plane and in a height direction, wherein the height direction runs at least approximately perpendicular to the expansion plane. In particular, the expansion plane is spanned by two expansion directions. The two expansion directions run, for example, at least approximately perpendicular to one another.

In favourable embodiments, the extension of the container in the height direction smaller, for example at least 30% smaller, than an expansion of the container in at least one, preferably in both, of the two expansion directions.

For example, one of the two expansion directions runs in the direction in which the container has its smallest extension relative to the expansion plane, and/or one of the two expansion directions runs in a direction in which the container has its greatest extension relative to the expansion plane.

Preferably, the container has two wall sections arranged oppositely in the height direction.

Advantageously, the two wall sections arranged oppositely in the height direction extend at least largely, for example at least between their respective end regions, parallel to the expansion plane of the container.

Preferably, the inlet opening and the outlet opening are formed on opposite sides of the container in the height direction, in particular opposite sides of the interior.

In particular, the inlet opening is formed in one of the two wall sections which are arranged opposite to each other in the height direction and/or the outlet opening is formed in one of the two, for example in the other of the two wall sections which are arranged opposite to each other in the height direction.

For example, it is advantageous that little installation space is required for the cartridge between the inlet and the outlet, since they can be arranged opposite to the small height direction.

For example, by arranging the inlet opening and the outlet opening in a length-optimized manner, a liquid flowing through the cartridge can still be processed along the longest possible distance in the interior of the cartridge.

For example, the cartridge can be arranged in a space-saving manner between a unit which can be and/or is connected to the inlet, in particular a water tank, and a unit which can be and/or is connected to the outlet, for example.

It is particularly advantageous if the inlet, in particular an inlet nozzle thereof, extends in the vertical direction away from the container.

Preferably, the outlet, for example an outlet nozzle thereof, extends in the height direction away from the container.

Advantageously, a region of the interior space into which the inlet opening opens and a region of the interior space into which the outlet opening opens are located opposite one another in the interior space in at least one, preferably in both, of the two expansion directions and/or in the height direction of the container.

It is particularly advantageous if the region of the interior space into which the inlet opening opens and a region into which the outlet opening opens are opposite regions with respect to a direction in which the interior space has at least approximately its greatest extent.

In particular, the direction in which the interior space at least approximately has its greatest extent runs diagonally to the height direction and/or diagonally to at least one, preferably both, of the two expansion directions of the container. In particular, the direction in which the interior space at least approximately has its greatest extent runs along a spatial diagonal of the interior space.

Preferably, the cartridge is designed for an at least approximately vertical orientation. Advantageously, the cartridge is used in an at least approximately vertical orientation. Preferably, the cartridge is arranged in an at least approximately vertical orientation in the device.

• - dass die Auslassöffnung in einem auf eine Vertikalrichtung des Geräts bezogenen und/oder auf die Schwerkraftrichtung bezogenen unteren Bereich des Innenraums angeordnet ist und/oder dass die Einlassöffnung in einem auf eine Vertikalrichtung des Geräts bezogenen und/oder auf die Schwerkraftrichtung bezogenen oberen Bereich des Innenraums angeordnet ist, und/oder
• - dass die Höhenrichtung des Behälters zumindest näherungsweise senkrecht zu einer Vertikalrichtung des Geräts und/oder zu der Schwerkraftrichtung ausgerichtet ist, und/oder
• - dass eine der zwei Ausdehnungsrichtungen des Behälters zumindest näherungsweise parallel zu einer Vertikalrichtung des Geräts und/oder zu der Schwerkraftrichtung ausgerichtet ist, und/oder
• - dass eine Wandfläche eines Wandabschnittes, in welchem die Einlassöffnung ausgebildet ist, und/oder eine Wandfläche eines Wandabschnittes, in welchem die Auslassöffnung ausgebildet ist, zumindest näherungsweise parallel zu einer Vertikalrichtung des Geräts und/oder zu der Schwerkraftrichtung verläuft, und/oder
• - dass eine Erstreckungsrichtung des Wandabschnittes, in welchem die Einlassöffnung ausgebildet ist, und/oder eine Erstreckungsrichtung des Wandabschnittes, in welchem die Auslassöffnung ausgebildet ist, zumindest näherungsweise parallel zu einer Vertikalrichtung des Geräts und/oder zu der Schwerkraftrichtung verläuft, wobei insbesondere in dieser parallel verlaufenden Erstreckungsrichtung der Wandabschnitt seine größte Erstreckung aufweist und/oder in einem auf diese parallel verlaufende Erstreckungsrichtung bezogenen Endbereich des Wandabschnitts die Einlassöffnung oder Auslassöffnung ausgebildet ist, wobei vorteilhafterweise die Einlassöffnung in einem oberen Endbereich und/oder die Auslassöffnung in einem unteren Endbereich ausgebildet ist und oben/unten auf eine Vertikalrichtung des Gerätes und/oder auf die Schwerkraftrichtung bezogen ist.

In particular, the proper vertical alignment provides for at least one of the following:

• - that the outlet opening is arranged in a lower region of the interior relative to a vertical direction of the device and/or relative to the direction of gravity and/or that the inlet opening is arranged in an upper region of the interior relative to a vertical direction of the device and/or relative to the direction of gravity, and/or
• - that the height direction of the container is at least approximately perpendicular to a vertical direction of the device and/or to the gravity direction of force, and/or
• - that one of the two expansion directions of the container is aligned at least approximately parallel to a vertical direction of the device and/or to the direction of gravity, and/or
• - that a wall surface of a wall section in which the inlet opening is formed and/or a wall surface of a wall section in which the outlet opening is formed runs at least approximately parallel to a vertical direction of the device and/or to the direction of gravity, and/or
• - that an extension direction of the wall section in which the inlet opening is formed and/or an extension direction of the wall section in which the outlet opening is formed runs at least approximately parallel to a vertical direction of the device and/or to the direction of gravity, wherein in particular in this parallel extension direction the wall section has its greatest extension and/or the inlet opening or outlet opening is formed in an end region of the wall section related to this parallel extension direction, wherein advantageously the inlet opening is formed in an upper end region and/or the outlet opening is formed in a lower end region and top/bottom is related to a vertical direction of the device and/or to the direction of gravity.

For example, the vertical orientation of the cartridge means that the flow of liquid through the interior is at least not impaired by gravity and advantageously at least somewhat supported. For example, one advantage of the vertical orientation is that the cartridge can be arranged in a compact manner in the device.

• - dass zumindest eine direkte Verbindung in dem Innenraum zwischen der Einlassöffnung und der Auslassöffnung zumindest in einem unbefüllten Zustand des Innenraums barrierefrei ist und/oder
• - dass die Einlassöffnung und die Auslassöffnung eine Verbindung, insbesondere eine direkte Verbindung, in dem Innenraum zwischen der Einlassöffnung und der Auslassöffnung längenoptimierend in entgegengesetzten Bereichen des Innenraums angeordnet sind.

In advantageous embodiments, the cartridge, in particular its container, is designed

• - that at least one direct connection in the interior between the inlet opening and the outlet opening is barrier-free at least when the interior is unfilled and/or
• - that the inlet opening and the outlet opening form a connection, in particular a direct connection, in the interior between the inlet opening and the outlet opening, and are arranged in opposite regions of the interior in a length-optimized manner.

A particular advantage of this is that a liquid flowing through the cartridge can flow as unhindered as possible from the inlet opening through the interior to the outlet opening, since the connection between the inlet opening and the outlet opening is barrier-free. In this way, flow resistance in the interior for the liquid is at least reduced or even minimized.

In particular, a benefit of this is that a liquid flowing through the cartridge must flow along the longest possible path through the interior from the inlet opening to the outlet opening, since the inlet opening and the outlet opening are arranged in opposite regions of the interior in such a way that the connection between the inlet opening and the outlet opening is designed to be length-optimized.

Advantageously, the cartridge is intended and designed for at least partial treatment of a liquid flowing through the cartridge.

Advantageously, for the at least partial treatment of the liquid in a filled state of the cartridge, a fluid modification material is arranged in the interior and the interior is advantageously filled with the fluid modification material.

A length-optimized connection between the inlet opening and the outlet opening is advantageous, for example, because the liquid flows around the fluid modification material and is processed over as long a distance as possible. Since the flow around the fluid modification material already creates a certain flow resistance, it is advantageous if the connection is otherwise barrier-free, so that the flow resistance in the cartridge for the liquid is kept as small as possible and, ideally, the liquid flowing through the interior is not exposed to any further flow resistance apart from the fluid modification material.

Preferably, it is provided that at least one connecting space area around the direct connection between the inlet opening and the outlet opening is barrier-free at least in the unfilled state of the interior.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the interior is at least largely barrier-free, at least in an unfilled state.

In particular, an advantage of a barrier-free connecting space area that is as large as possible and in particular of an at least substantially barrier-free interior space is that the liquid can flow as unhindered as possible from the inlet opening to the outlet opening through the interior space.

In particular, the connection and/or the connection space area and/or the interior is barrier-free if at least no elements of the container and in particular no elements of the cartridge and preferably also no further elements are arranged therein.

No further information has been provided regarding the fluid modification material.

In particular, it is provided that in a filled state of the interior, the interior is at least partially, preferably at least largely, filled with a fluid modification material.

In particular, the fluid modification material is designed for the physical and/or chemical modification of the liquid flowing through the cartridge.

In particular, it is intended that the liquid flowing through the cartridge comprises at least water. For example, at least one additive is added to the water.

Fortunately, the fluid modification material at least treats the water.

In particular, it is provided that the fluid modification material is at least partially designed for at least partial, in particular physical and/or chemical, removal of substances from the liquid, in particular for at least partial decalcification of the water.

In particular, the fluid modification material can have a wide variety of components.

Preferably, the fluid modification material comprises at least one resin.

It is particularly advantageous if the fluid modification material is a granular medium.

In particular, in the filled state, the interior of the container and in particular the otherwise barrier-free connection between the inlet opening and the outlet opening and their connecting space area are at least partially, preferably at least largely filled with the preferably granular fluid modification material.

In particular, the granular medium has the advantage that it has a large surface area for interaction with the liquid for its processing and can be conveniently flowed around by the liquid.

For example, it is easy to fill the interior with the granular medium and/or remove the used granular medium from the interior.

In favorable embodiments, the hot fluid generation unit is arranged in a lower region in the device housing with respect to the vertical direction.

In particular, the hot fluid generation unit is arranged below a geometric longitudinal center plane of the device housing in relation to the vertical direction. In particular, the longitudinal center plane runs at least approximately perpendicular to the vertical direction. In particular, the lower region is formed below the longitudinal center plane and comprises at most 60%, in particular at most 50%, and/or at least 30%, for example at least 40%, of the total extent of the device housing in the vertical direction.

In favorable embodiments, the hot fluid generation unit is arranged in a front area in the device housing.

In particular, the hot fluid generation unit is arranged in front of a geometric vertical center plane of the device housing with respect to the main direction. The vertical center plane runs at least approximately perpendicular to the main direction. In particular, the front region is formed in front of the vertical center plane and comprises at most 60%, in particular at most 50%, and/or at least 30%, for example at least 40%, of a total extension of the device housing in the main direction.

In some advantageous embodiments, the hot fluid generation unit comprises at least one continuous flow heater.

In some advantageous embodiments, the hot fluid generating unit comprises at least one boiler and at least one heating element for providing hot fluid in the boiler.

In advantageous embodiments, the device, in particular at least one, for example, integral or separate application unit of the device, is designed at least in one function for the application of a fluid, in particular a hot fluid.

In particular, the device, in particular at least one, for example, integral or separate application unit of the device, is designed in at least one function for cleaning, wherein the fluid, for example the hot fluid, is advantageously applied at least partially for cleaning.

In some favorable embodiments, the device, in particular at least one, for example, integral or separate application unit of the device, is designed in at least one function for ironing, wherein in particular a fluid, in particular a hot fluid, is at least partially applied.

In particular, the fluid comprises water.

In particular, the hot fluid comprises hot water, in particular at least partially water vapor and/or at least partially hot, liquid water, advantageously hot water atomized into fine droplets.

Preferably, a temperature of the hot fluid is at least 60 °C, preferably at least 80 °C, for example at least 90 °C. In some preferred embodiments, the temperature of the hot fluid is at least 100 °C.

In particular, at least one application unit is designed to act on an object, in particular an article and/or a surface, in particular according to a function of the device.

Preferably, at least one application unit is designed to apply a fluid, preferably a hot fluid.

In particular, at least one application unit is designed for a cleaning application. In particular, at least one cleaning element can be arranged on the application unit and advantageously at least one application unit comprises at least one cleaning element. Preferably, at least one application unit is designed for a cleaning application using a fluid, in particular a hot fluid.

In particular, the device technology required for at least one function of the device is arranged at least partially, preferably at least largely, in the interior of the housing.

For example, the device comprises at least one control technology, in particular electrical, and/or at least one functional unit and/or a power supply unit and/or interaction technology for the user's interaction with the device, for example operating elements and/or display elements. At least a part of this is advantageously arranged on the device housing and/or in the interior of the housing.

In particular, at least one functional unit of the device module is at least one of the following, a hot fluid generation unit and/or a pump and/or a motor unit.

In advantageous embodiments, the device housing forms a standing surface on its underside, wherein the underside is a bottom side with respect to the vertical direction.

This means that the device can be conveniently placed on its underside.

Advantageously, the base is at least approximately perpendicular to the vertical direction of the device housing.

In particular, the base is at least a substantially flat surface.

In some advantageous embodiments, the device housing comprises several, for example two, shell parts.

In particular, the shell parts form outer walls of the device housing.

It is particularly advantageous if at least one shell part is a plastic part and preferably at least some, for example all, of several shell parts are each a plastic part.

Conveniently, at least one shell part is an injection-molded part and preferably at least some, for example all, of a plurality of shell parts are each an injection-molded part.

In some advantageous embodiments, the device housing is at least substantially formed from the plurality of shell parts.

In particular, a feature is formed above and below at least largely in relation to a reference quantity if the feature is formed in at least half, preferably in at least three quarters, in particular in at least 90%, of the reference quantity and/or is formed in the entire reference quantity except for technically conditioned and/or technically irrelevant restrictions.

The foregoing and the following are features and/or elements which are considered particularly and/or preferably and/or advantageously and/or conveniently and/or provided in a variant and/or the like, optional features and/or elements which, for example, represent inventive further developments but are not absolutely necessary for the basic inventive solution and its success.

Preferred embodiments and features of the invention and, for example, advantages thereof are the subject of the following detailed description and the graphic representation of embodiments in different variants.

1. 1. Gerät (100), welches insbesondere ein Handgerät und/oder Heißfluidgerät und/oder Reinigungsgerät ist, umfassend ein Gerätegehäuse (212), wobei das Gerätegehäuse (212) ein Gehäuseinneres (214) definiert und in dem Gehäuseinneren (214) eine Heißfluiderzeugungseinheit (378) des Gerätes (100) und insbesondere Gerätetechnik (100) des Gerätes angeordnet sind und wobei eine Griffregion (296) des Gerätes (100) für eine Griffeinheit (262) bezogen auf eine Vertikalrichtung (246) des Gerätegehäuses (212) oberhalb einer Wassertankregion (354) für einen Wassertank (352) angeordnet ist und wobei an einer Frontseite (222) des Gerätegehäuses (212) eine Anordnungsstelle (232, 272) für eine Applikationseinheit (236) ausgebildet ist und die Frontseite (222) und eine Rückseite (224) des Gerätegehäuses (212) in einer Hauptrichtung (226) des Gerätegehäuses (212) entgegengesetzte Seiten des Gerätegehäuses (212) sind und die Hauptrichtung (226) zur Vertikalrichtung (246) zumindest näherungsweise senkrecht verläuft.
2. 2. Gerät (100) nach Ausführungsform 1 wobei die Griffeinheit (262) ein zu dem Gerätegehäuse (212) separates Griffmodul (114) mit zumindest einem Griffelement (264) ist und dass insbesondere das Gerätegehäuse (212) ein Gehäuse eines Gerätemoduls (112) ist.
3. 3. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Gerätegehäuse (212) im Bereich der Griffregion (296) eine Aussparung (298) für eine separate Griffeinheit (262) aufweist.
4. 4. Gerät (100) nach Ausführungsform 1, wobei die Griffeinheit (262) zumindest teilweise, insbesondere zumindest ein Griffelement (264) der Griffeinheit (262), aus dem Gerätegehäuse (212) ausgebildet ist.
5. 5. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei ein Griffelement (264) der Griffeinheit (262) an zumindest einem von zwei gegenüberliegenden Längsenden (266, 268) des Griffelementes (264) an zumindest ein weiteres Element der Griffeinheit (262), insbesondere einstückig, angeordnet ist.
6. 6. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei an beiden von zwei gegenüberliegenden Längsenden (266, 268) des Griffelementes (264) jeweils zumindest ein weiteres Element der Griffeinheit (262), insbesondere einstückig, angeordnet ist, sodass insbesondere das Griffelement (264) kein freies Längsende aufweist.
7. 7. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen außer der direkt voranstehenden Ausführungsform, wobei eines von zwei Längsenden (266, 268), der Griffeinheit (262) ein freies Ende ist.
8. 8. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei ein Stützelement (276, 278) für die Griffeinheit (262) an das Griffelement (264) angeordnet ist, insbesondere zum zumindest teilweisen Abstützen des Griffelementes (264) an zumindest einem Teil des Gerätegehäuses (212).
9. 9. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Gerätegehäuse (212) zumindest ein Abstützelement (288) für ein zumindest teilweises Abstützen der Griffeinheit (262) umfasst.
10. 10. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei die Griffeinheit (262) ein Anlageelement (288) umfasst und das Anlageelement (288) zur Anlage und/oder zum Abstützen an dem Abstützelement (284) des Gerätegehäuses (212) ausgebildet und angeordnet ist, wobei insbesondere das Anlageelement (288) über zumindest ein Stützelement (276, 278) an das Griffelement (264) angeordnet ist.
11. 11. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Abstützelement (288) zumindest teilweise an der Griffeinheit (262), insbesondere an zumindest einem Stützelement (276, 278), ausgebildet ist.
12. 12. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Abstützelement (284) die Griffregion (296) in der Vertikalrichtung (246) begrenzt.
13. 13. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei die Griffregion (296) sich zumindest in etwa entlang der Hälfte einer Längserstreckung des Gerätegehäuses (212) in der Hauptrichtung (226) erstreckt, insbesondere dass sich die Griffregion (296) höchstens entlang von 70 %, insbesondere von höchstens 60 %, der gesamten Längserstreckung des Gerätegehäuses (212) in der Hauptrichtung (226) erstreckt, und/oder dass sich die Griffregion (296) mindestens entlang von 30 %, insbesondere von mindestens 40 %, der gesamten Längserstreckung des Gerätegehäuses (212) in der Hauptrichtung (226) erstreckt, und/oder dass sich die Griffregion (296) zumindest in etwa in einer bezogen auf die Hauptrichtung (226) hinteren Hälfte des Gerätegehäuses (212) erstreckt.
14. 14. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Gerätegehäuse (212) einen Anordnungsabschnitt (322) mit zumindest einer Anordnungsstelle (232, 272) für eine Griffeinheit (262) und/oder einer Anordnungsstelle (232, 272) für eine Applikationseinheit (236) ausbildet, insbesondere dass der Anordnungsabschnitt (322) bezogen auf die Vertikalrichtung (246) und die Hauptrichtung (226) des Gerätegehäuses (212) in einem oberen und vorderen Bereich des Gerätegehäuses (212) ausgebildet ist, und/oder dass an dem Anordnungsabschnitt (322) zumindest eine Befestigungseinheit (132) für eine Griffeinheit (262) und/oder eine Befestigungseinheit (132) für eine Applikationseinheit (236) ausgebildet ist, und/oder dass an dem Anordnungsabschnitt (322) zumindest ein Teil der Griffeinheit (262) und/oder zumindest ein Teil der Applikationseinheit (236) ausgebildet ist.
15. 15. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei an dem Anordnungsabschnitt (322) für die Griffeinheit (262) eine Stützfläche ausgebildet ist.
16. 16. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei die Anordnungsstelle (232, 272) für eine Applikationseinheit (236) bezogen auf die Hauptrichtung (226) und die Vertikalrichtung (246) schräg nach unten orientiert ist.
17. 17. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei an den Anordnungsabschnitt (322) die Griffeinheit (262) und die Applikationseinheit (288) entlang einer Anordnungsachse (326) zumindest anordenbar sind, wobei insbesondere die Anordnungsachse (326) schräg zu der Hauptrichtung (226) und/oder schräg zu der Vertikalrichtung (246) verläuft.
18. 18. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei die Anordnungsachse (326) durch die Anordnungsstelle (232, 272) für die Griffeinheit (262) und die Anordnungsstelle (232, 272) für die Applikationseinheit (288) verläuft.
19. 19. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei an dem Anordnungsabschnitt (322) ein äußeres Wandsegment (332) des Gerätegehäuses (212) schräg zu der Hauptrichtung (226) und/oder schräg zu der Vertikalrichtung (246) verläuft, insbesondere dass das schräge Wandsegment (332) zumindest näherungsweise parallel zu der Anordnungsachse (322) verläuft, und/oder dass das schräge Wandsegment (322) von der Frontseite (222) schräg zu einer Oberseite (242) des Gerätegehäuses (212) verläuft und insbesondere zu der Griffregion (296) hin verläuft.
20. 20. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Gerät (100) zumindest eine Anzeigeeinrichtung mit zumindest einem Anzeigeelement umfasst, insbesondere zur Anzeige zumindest eines Betriebszustandes des Gerätes (100).
21. 21. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Gerät (100) zumindest eine Bedienungseinrichtung mit zumindest einem Bedienelement (346) zur Bedienung des Gerätes (100) umfasst.
22. 22. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Gerät (100) zumindest eine Interaktionsseite (342) aufweist, an welcher zumindest ein Anzeigeelement der Anzeigeeinrichtung und/oder zumindest ein Bedienelement (346) der Bedienungseinrichtung angeordnet ist.
23. 23. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei die Interaktionsseite (342) zumindest im Wesentlichen an dem Anordnungsabschnitt (322), insbesondere an dem schräg verlaufenden Wandsegment (332), ausgebildet ist.
24. 24. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei in der Wassertankregion (354) das Gerätegehäuse (212) eine Ausnehmung (356) zur Aufnahme eines, insbesondere lösbar befestigbaren, Wassertankes (352) ausgebildet ist.
25. 25. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei in der Wassertankregion (354) ein Befestigungsmechanismus für eine lösbare Befestigung eines Wassertankes (352) an dem Gerätegehäuse (212) angeordnet ist.
26. 26. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei in der Vertikalrichtung (246) die Griffregion (296) und die Wassertankregion (354) voneinander beanstandet sind.
27. 27. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei zwischen der Aussparung (298) in der Griffregion (296) und der Ausnehmung (356) in der Wassertankregion (354) sich ein hinterer Abschnitt (364) des Gerätegehäuses (212) bis zu der Rückseite (224) des Gerätegehäuses (212) erstreckt.
28. 28. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei eine Stromversorgungseinheit (172) des Gerätes (100) zumindest teilweise zwischen der Griffregion (296) und der Wassertankregion (354) bezogen auf die Vertikalrichtung (246) angeordnet ist.
29. 29. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Gerät (100) zumindest eine Kartusche (410) für eine Modifikation eines Fluids umfasst und dass insbesondere in dem Gehäuseinneren (214) zumindest eine Kartusche (410) angeordnet ist, wobei insbesondere eine Kartusche (410) angrenzend an die Wassertankregion (354) angeordnet ist.
30. 30. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei eine Kartusche (410) des Gerätes (100) einen Behälter (422) insbesondere mit einem Innenraum (424) umfasst und insbesondere, dass der Behälter (422) sich zumindest im Wesentlichen in einer Ausdehnungsebene (468) und in einer Höhenrichtung (476), welche zumindest näherungsweise senkrecht zu der Ausdehnungsebene (468) verläuft, ausdehnt, wobei insbesondere die Ausdehnungsebene (468) durch zwei zueinander zumindest näherungsweise senkrecht verlaufende Ausdehnungsrichtungen (472, 474) aufgespannt wird, wobei insbesondere eine Ausdehnung des Behälters (422) in der Höhenrichtung (476) kleiner ist als eine Ausdehnung des Behälters (422) in zumindest einer der zwei Ausdehnungsrichtungen (472, 474), und/oder insbesondere, dass eine Einlassöffnung (514) des Behälters (422) und eine Auslassöffnung (518) des Behälters (422) an in der Höhenrichtung (476) entgegengesetzten Seiten des Behälters (422) ausgebildet sind, und/oder insbesondere, dass ein Bereich des Innenraums (424), in welchen eine Einlassöffnung (514) des Behälters (422) mündet, und ein Bereich des Innenraums (424), in welchen eine Auslassöffnung (518) des Behälters (422) mündet, in zumindest einer der zwei Ausdehnungsrichtungen (472, 474) und/oder in der Höhenrichtung (476) entgegengesetzt in dem Innenraum (424) gelegen sind.
31. 31. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei eine Kartusche (410) des Gerätes (100), welche einen Behälter (422) umfasst, für eine zumindest näherungsweise vertikale Ausrichtung ausgebildet ist und/oder in einer zumindest näherungsweise vertikalen Ausrichtung verwendet wird und/oder in einer zumindest näherungsweise vertikalen Ausrichtung in dem Gerät (100) angeordnet ist, wobei insbesondere der Behälter (422) einen Innenraum (424) aufweist und eine in den Innenraum (424) mündende Auslassöffnung (518) und/oder eine in den Innenraum (424) mündende Einlassöffnung (514) aufweist, wobei insbesondere in der ordnungsgemäßen vertikalen Ausrichtung zumindest eines der Nachfolgenden vorgesehen ist dass die Auslassöffnung (518) in einem auf eine Vertikalrichtung (246) des Geräts (100) und/oder auf die Schwerkraftrichtung bezogenen unteren Bereich des Innenraumes (424) angeordnet ist und/oder dass die Einlassöffnung (514) in einem auf eine Vertikalrichtung (246) des Geräts (100) und/oder auf die Schwerkraftrichtung bezogenen oberen Bereich des Innenraumes (424) angeordnet ist, und/oder dass eine Höhenrichtung (476) des Behälters (422) zumindest näherungsweise senkrecht zu einer Vertikalrichtung (246) des Geräts (100) und/oder zu der Schwerkraftrichtung ausgerichtet ist, und/oder dass eine von zwei Ausdehnungsrichtungen (472, 474) des Behälters (422) zumindest näherungsweise parallel zu einer Vertikalrichtung (246) des Geräts (100) und/oder zu der Schwerkraftrichtung ausgerichtet ist, und/oder dass eine Wandfläche (432, 434) eines Wandabschnittes (428) des Behälters (422), in welchem die Einlassöffnung (514) ausgebildet ist, und/oder eine Wandfläche (432, 434) eines Wandabschnittes (428) des Behälters (422), in welchem die Auslassöffnung (518) ausgebildet ist, zumindest näherungsweise parallel zu einer Vertikalrichtung (246) des Geräts (100) und/oder zu der Schwerkraftrichtung verläuft.
32. 32. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei die Heißfluiderzeugungseinheit (378) in einem unteren Bereich in dem Gerätegehäuse (212) und/oder in einem vorderen Bereich in dem Gerätegehäuse (212) angeordnet ist.
33. 33. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei die Heißfluiderzeugungseinheit (378) zumindest einen Durchlauferhitzer umfasst.
34. 34. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Gerätegehäuse (212) an seiner, bezogen auf die Vertikalrichtung (246), Unterseite eine Standfläche (252) ausbildet, wobei insbesondere die Standfläche (252) zumindest näherungsweise senkrecht zur der Vertikalrichtung (246) verläuft und/oder die Standfläche (252) eine zumindest im Wesentlichen ebene Fläche ist.
35. 35. Gerät (100) nach einer der voranstehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Gerätegehäuse (212) mehrere Schalenteile umfasst, wobei insbesondere die Schalenteile äußere Wände des Gerätegehäuses (212) ausbilden, wobei insbesondere zumindest ein Schalenteil ein Plastikteil und/oder ein Spritzgussteil ist.

The description of solutions according to the invention thus includes in particular the various feature combinations defined by the following numbered embodiments:

1. 1. Device (100), which is in particular a hand-held device and/or hot fluid device and/or cleaning device, comprising a device housing (212), wherein the device housing (212) defines a housing interior (214) and a hot fluid generation unit (378) of the device (100) and in particular device technology (100) of the device are arranged in the housing interior (214), and wherein a handle region (296) of the device (100) for a handle unit (262) is arranged above a water tank region (354) for a water tank (352) with respect to a vertical direction (246) of the device housing (212), and wherein an arrangement point (232, 272) for an application unit (236) is formed on a front side (222) of the device housing (212), and the front side (222) and a rear side (224) of the device housing (212) are arranged in a Main direction (226) of the device housing (212) are opposite sides of the device housing (212) and the main direction (226) is at least approximately perpendicular to the vertical direction (246).
2. 2. Device (100) according to embodiment 1, wherein the handle unit (262) is a handle module (114) separate from the device housing (212) with at least one handle element (264) and that in particular the device housing (212) is a housing of a device module (112).
3. 3. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the device housing (212) has a recess (298) for a separate handle unit (262) in the area of the handle region (296).
4. 4. Device (100) according to embodiment 1, wherein the handle unit (262), in particular at least one handle element (264) of the handle unit (262), is formed from the device housing (212).
5. 5. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a handle element (264) of the handle unit (262) is arranged on at least one of two opposite longitudinal ends (266, 268) of the handle element (264) on at least one further element of the handle unit (262), in particular in one piece.
6. 6. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one further element of the handle unit (262) is arranged, in particular in one piece, at each of two opposite longitudinal ends (266, 268) of the handle element (264), so that in particular the handle element (264) has no free longitudinal end.
7. 7. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments except the directly preceding embodiment, wherein one of two longitudinal ends (266, 268) of the handle unit (262) is a free end.
8. 8. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a support element (276, 278) for the handle unit (262) is arranged on the handle element (264), in particular for at least partially supporting the handle element (264) on at least a part of the device housing (212).
9. 9. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the device housing (212) comprises at least one support element (288) for at least partially supporting the handle unit (262).
10. 10. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the handle unit (262) comprises a contact element (288) and the contact element (288) is designed and arranged to rest on and/or to support the support element (284) of the device housing (212), wherein in particular the contact element (288) is arranged on the handle element (264) via at least one support element (276, 278).
11. 11. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the support element (288) is formed at least partially on the handle unit (262), in particular on at least one support element (276, 278).
12. 12. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the support element (284) delimits the grip region (296) in the vertical direction (246).
13. 13. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the grip region (296) extends at least approximately along half of a Longitudinal extension of the device housing (212) in the main direction (226), in particular that the handle region (296) extends at most along 70%, in particular at most 60%, of the entire longitudinal extension of the device housing (212) in the main direction (226), and/or that the handle region (296) extends at least along 30%, in particular at least 40%, of the entire longitudinal extension of the device housing (212) in the main direction (226), and/or that the handle region (296) extends at least approximately in a rear half of the device housing (212) with respect to the main direction (226).
14. 14. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the device housing (212) forms an arrangement section (322) with at least one arrangement point (232, 272) for a handle unit (262) and/or an arrangement point (232, 272) for an application unit (236), in particular that the arrangement section (322) is formed in an upper and front region of the device housing (212) with respect to the vertical direction (246) and the main direction (226) of the device housing (212), and/or that at least one fastening unit (132) for a handle unit (262) and/or a fastening unit (132) for an application unit (236) is formed on the arrangement section (322), and/or that at least a part of the handle unit (262) and/or at least a part of the application unit (236) is formed.
15. 15. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a support surface is formed on the arrangement section (322) for the handle unit (262).
16. 16. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the arrangement location (232, 272) for an application unit (236) is oriented obliquely downwards with respect to the main direction (226) and the vertical direction (246).
17. 17. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the handle unit (262) and the application unit (288) can be arranged at least along an arrangement axis (326) on the arrangement section (322), wherein in particular the arrangement axis (326) runs obliquely to the main direction (226) and/or obliquely to the vertical direction (246).
18. 18. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the arrangement axis (326) runs through the arrangement location (232, 272) for the handle unit (262) and the arrangement location (232, 272) for the application unit (288).
19. 19. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein on the arrangement section (322) an outer wall segment (332) of the device housing (212) runs obliquely to the main direction (226) and/or obliquely to the vertical direction (246), in particular that the oblique wall segment (332) runs at least approximately parallel to the arrangement axis (322), and/or that the oblique wall segment (322) runs obliquely from the front side (222) to an upper side (242) of the device housing (212) and in particular runs towards the handle region (296).
20. 20. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the device (100) comprises at least one display device with at least one display element, in particular for displaying at least one operating state of the device (100).
21. 21. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the device (100) comprises at least one operating device with at least one operating element (346) for operating the device (100).
22. 22. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the device (100) has at least one interaction page (342) on which at least one display element of the display device and/or at least one operating element (346) of the operating device is arranged.
23. 23. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the interaction side (342) is formed at least substantially on the arrangement section (322), in particular on the obliquely extending wall segment (332).
24. 24. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein in the water tank region (354) the device housing (212) is formed a recess (356) for receiving a water tank (352), in particular a water tank that can be detachably attached.
25. 25. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a fastening mechanism for a releasable fastening of a water tank (352) to the device housing (212) is arranged in the water tank region (354).
26. 26. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the handle region (296) and the water tank region (354) are spaced from each other in the vertical direction (246).
27. 27. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein between the recess (298) in the handle region (296) and the recess (356) in the water tank region (354), a rear portion (364) of the device housing (212) extends to the rear side (224) of the device housing (212).
28. 28. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a power supply unit (172) of the device (100) is arranged at least partially between the handle region (296) and the water tank region (354) with respect to the vertical direction (246).
29. 29. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the device (100) comprises at least one cartridge (410) for a modification of a fluid and that in particular at least one cartridge (410) is arranged in the housing interior (214), wherein in particular a cartridge (410) is arranged adjacent to the water tank region (354).
30. 30. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a cartridge (410) of the device (100) comprises a container (422), in particular with an interior space (424), and in particular that the container (422) expands at least substantially in an expansion plane (468) and in a height direction (476) which runs at least approximately perpendicular to the expansion plane (468), wherein in particular the expansion plane (468) is spanned by two expansion directions (472, 474) which run at least approximately perpendicular to one another, wherein in particular an expansion of the container (422) in the height direction (476) is smaller than an expansion of the container (422) in at least one of the two expansion directions (472, 474), and/or in particular that an inlet opening (514) of the container (422) and an outlet opening (518) of the container (422) are formed on opposite sides of the container (422) in the height direction (476), and/or in particular that a region of the interior (424) into which an inlet opening (514) of the container (422) opens and a region of the interior (424) into which an outlet opening (518) of the container (422) opens are located opposite each other in the interior (424) in at least one of the two extension directions (472, 474) and/or in the height direction (476).
31. 31. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a cartridge (410) of the device (100), which comprises a container (422), is designed for an at least approximately vertical orientation and/or is used in an at least approximately vertical orientation and/or is arranged in an at least approximately vertical orientation in the device (100), wherein in particular the container (422) has an interior (424) and an outlet opening (518) opening into the interior (424) and/or an inlet opening (514) opening into the interior (424), wherein in particular in the correct vertical orientation at least one of the following is provided that the outlet opening (518) is arranged in a lower region of the interior (424) related to a vertical direction (246) of the device (100) and/or to the direction of gravity and/or that the inlet opening (514) is in a vertical direction (246) of the device (100) and/or in the upper region of the interior (424) relative to the direction of gravity, and/or that a height direction (476) of the container (422) is aligned at least approximately perpendicular to a vertical direction (246) of the device (100) and/or to the direction of gravity, and/or that one of two extension directions (472, 474) of the container (422) is aligned at least approximately parallel to a vertical direction (246) of the device (100) and/or to the direction of gravity, and/or that a wall surface (432, 434) of a wall section (428) of the container (422) in which the inlet opening (514) is formed, and/or a wall surface (432, 434) of a wall section (428) of the container (422) in which the outlet opening (518) is formed is at least approximately parallel to a vertical direction (246) of the device (100) and/or to the direction of gravity.
32. 32. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the hot fluid generation unit (378) is arranged in a lower region in the device housing (212) and/or in a front region in the device housing (212).
33. 33. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the hot fluid generation unit (378) comprises at least one continuous flow heater.
34. 34. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the device housing (212) forms a standing surface (252) on its underside relative to the vertical direction (246), wherein in particular the standing surface (252) runs at least approximately perpendicular to the vertical direction (246) and/or the standing surface (252) is an at least substantially flat surface.
35. 35. Device (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the device housing (212) comprises a plurality of shell parts, wherein in particular the shell parts form outer walls of the device housing (212), wherein in particular at least one shell part is a plastic part and/or an injection-molded part.

Preferred features and advantages of the invention are the subject of the following detailed description and drawing of an embodiment.

• 1: ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines Gerätes in drei unterschiedlichen Gerätekonfigurationen, wobei in diesen Gerätekonfigurationen das Gerät ein langes Gerät ist und insbesondere Verlängerungsmodule in der Gerätekonfiguration eingesetzt sind;
• 2: ein Ausführungsbeispiel des Gerätes in einer Gerätekonfiguration als Handgerät;
• 3: eine Variante des Ausführungsbeispiels des Gerätes in einer Gerätekonfiguration als Handgerät;
• 4: ein Ausführungsbeispiel des Gerätes in einer Gerätekonfiguration mit einem flexiblen Verlängerungsmodul;
• 5: eine ausschnittsweise vergrößerte Darstellung einer Befestigungseinheit eines Gerätemoduls mit aufgenommener Befestigungseinheit eines Griffmoduls;
• 6: eine Darstellung ähnlich wie 5 einer Befestigungseinheit eines Griffmoduls, aber mit aufgenommener Befestigungseinheit eines Verlängerungsmoduls;
• 7: eine Darstellung eines Inneren eines Gerätes eines Ausführungsbeispiels;
• 8: eine Darstellung eines Inneren eines Gerätes einer Variante eines Ausführungsbeispiels;
• 9: eine Schnittdarstellung eines Gerätegehäuses eines Gerätemoduls;
• 10: eine Schnittdarstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Griffmoduls;
• 11: eine Schnittdarstellung einer Variante eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Griffmoduls;
• 12: eine Schnittdarstellung eines Gerätegehäuses eines Gerätes eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels mit integraler Griffeinheit;
• 13: eine Schnittdarstellung eines Gerätegehäuses eines Gerätes einer Variante eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels mit einer integralen Griffeinheit;
• 14: eine ausschnittsweise vergrößerte Darstellung eines Anordnungsabschnitts des Gerätegehäuses, wobei an dem Anordnungsabschnitt eine Griffeinheit und/oder eine Applikationseinheit anordenbar ist;
• 15: eine Aufsicht auf eine Kartusche; und
• 16: eine Schnittdarstellung der Kartusche gemäß dem in 15 eingezeichneten Schnitt XVI-XVI.

In the drawing show:

• 1 : an embodiment of a device in three different device configurations, wherein in these device configurations the device is a long device and in particular extension modules are used in the device configuration;
• 2 : an embodiment of the device in a device configuration as a handheld device;
• 3 : a variant of the embodiment of the device in a device configuration as a handheld device;
• 4 : an embodiment of the device in a device configuration with a flexible extension module;
• 5 : a partially enlarged view of a fastening unit of a device module with an incorporated fastening unit of a handle module;
• 6 : a representation similar to 5 a fastening unit of a handle module, but with an incorporated fastening unit of an extension module;
• 7 : a representation of an interior of a device of an embodiment;
• 8 : a representation of an interior of a device of a variant of an embodiment;
• 9 : a sectional view of a device housing of a device module;
• 10 : a sectional view of an embodiment of a handle module;
• 11 : a sectional view of a variant of an embodiment of a handle module;
• 12 : a sectional view of a device housing of a device of a further embodiment with an integral handle unit;
• 13 : a sectional view of a device housing of a device of a variant of a further embodiment with an integral handle unit;
• 14 : a partially enlarged view of an arrangement section of the device housing, wherein a handle unit and/or an application unit can be arranged on the arrangement section;
• 15 : a top view of a cartridge; and
• 16 : a sectional view of the cartridge according to the 15 marked section XVI-XVI.

An embodiment of a device designated as a whole by 100 is designed as a modular device and comprises several modules. The several modules can be assembled in different device configurations 105 to form the device 100. In particular, in the different device configurations 105, different modules and/or modules in different orders are assembled to form the device 100.

As an example, three different device configurations 105I, 105II, 105III of the device 100 are shown in the 2 and 3 and a device configuration 105IV of the device 100 in the 2 and a device configuration 105V of device 100 in the 4 shown.

The device 100 comprises at least one device module 112 and/or a handle module 114 and/or at least one application module 116 and/or at least one extension module 118.

In variants of the embodiment, more or fewer modules can be provided. For example, in some variants, the device module 112 has an integral handle unit and, for example, no separate handle module 114 is then provided. For example, in some variants, it is provided that the device module 112 also comprises at least one application unit and, in particular, no separate application module 116 is provided.

In particular, the device 100 can be configured for different applications through the various device configurations 105.

In particular, in at least one device configuration 105, here in the exemplary 1 In the device configurations 105I,II,III shown, the device is a long handheld device. In a device configuration 105 corresponding to a long handheld device, at least one extension module 118 is used, which is attached to at least the device module 112 and/or the handle module 114 and/or the application module 116.

For example, in a device configuration 105 corresponding to a long handheld device, here in the device configuration 105I, the device module 112 and the application module 116 are attached to one another and at least one extension module 118, for example two extension modules 118I,II, are inserted between the device module 112 and the handle module 114.

For example, in a device configuration 105 corresponding to a long handheld device, here in the device configuration 105II, at least one extension module 118, here the extension module 118II, is inserted between the device module 112 and the application module 116 and at least one extension module 118, here the extension module 118I, is inserted between the device module 112 and the handle module 114.

For example, in a device configuration 105 corresponding to a long handheld device, here in the device configuration 105III, the device module 112 and the handle module 114 are attached to one another and at least one extension module 118 is inserted between the device module 112 and the application module 116, here for example the two extension modules 118I and 118II.

In particular, a device configuration 105I, II, III corresponding to a long handheld device is advantageous in order to increase the direct radius of action in which the user can use the device 100. For example, a long handheld device is advantageous because it enables the user to perform functions of the device 100 in different and/or at least in a certain body position, in particular in an upright body position. In particular, the device 100 in a device configuration 105 in which it is a long handheld device is advantageous in order to enable a user to clean a floor and/or wall areas of different heights in an upright body position.

In particular, it is advantageous that, depending on the device configuration 105I,II,III, the device module 112 can be arranged at a different distance from the handle module 114 and/or from the application module 116 in order to achieve handling adapted to the application and/or a more user-friendly arrangement of the modules.

In particular, in a device configuration 105, here in the exemplary 2 and 3 illustrated device configuration 105IV, the device 100 is a small handheld device, wherein in this device configuration 105IV the device module 112 is only assembled with the handle module 114 and the application module 116.

For example, a device configuration 105IV corresponding to a small handheld device is advantageous for providing a user with a handy and compact device.

For example, in some variants, a device configuration 105V is provided in which at least one extension module 118 is inserted between the device module 114 and the application module 116, but no handle module 114 is provided in this device configuration 105V, as exemplified in 4 is shown.

For example, such a device configuration 105V without a handle module 114 is advantageous if the device module 114 can be placed in one place and/or the application module 116 can be grasped by a user in order to be able to act on an object and/or a surface and/or another thing with the device 100.

The device module 112 comprises at least partially, preferably at least largely, the device technology required for the at least one function of the device 100. For example, the device technology that the device module 112 has comprises at least one functional unit for a function of the device 100 and/or a, in particular electronic, controller for controlling the device technology, in particular for controlling the at least one functional unit, and/or display elements and/or operating elements and/or a power supply unit. An advantageous embodiment of a device module 112 is described in more detail below.

In advantageous variants of the embodiment, the device 100 is a fluid device and at least one functional unit of the device module 112 is a hot fluid generation unit.

The handle module 114 comprises at least one element that forms a handle. An advantageous embodiment of a handle module 114 is explained in more detail below.

The application module 116 is designed to act on an object, in particular on an object and/or a surface, according to at least one function of the device 100.

In particular, the application module 116 is designed for a device 100 designed as a fluid device for applying a hot fluid, for example for cleaning and/or ironing. In particular, the application module 116 comprises at least one outlet opening for the hot fluid. For example, the application module comprises at least one outlet nozzle, preferably for a targeted and/or pressurized application of the hot fluid.

In some favorable variants, an application module 116 is designed for a cleaning function. In particular, at least one cleaning element can be arranged on the application module 116 and/or, for example, the application module 116 has at least one cleaning element. For example, at least one cleaning element is a cleaning cloth and/or a cleaning brush.

For example, in some variants, an application module 116 is designed for treating an object, for example for ironing items of clothing. For the ironing function, a corresponding application module 116 preferably has an ironing surface, in particular a metal one, in which outlet openings for the hot fluid are advantageously formed.

In particular, at least one extension module 118, in particular the plurality of extension modules 118, are provided and designed to increase the direct radius of action for a user in which he can use the device 100 and/or to enable the user to use the device 100 in a more comfortable, in particular upright, body position.

In particular, an extension module 118 is formed at least largely from an extension module body. The extension module body advantageously extends longitudinally between two ends. In particular, a fastening unit 132 is arranged at each of the two ends of the extension module body.

In some variants, at least one extension module 118 is designed such that it functionally connects the device module 112 and the application module 116 when this extension module 118 is inserted between the device module 112 and the application module 116. In particular, at least one extension module 118 is designed such that this extension module 118 functionally connects the device module 112 and the handle module 114 when this extension module 118 is inserted between the device module 112 and the handle module 114.

For example, in a device 100 designed as a fluid device, at least one extension module 118 is designed to guide a fluid, in particular a hot fluid, from the device module 112 to the application module 116 and in particular it comprises a line for a fluid for this purpose. For example, in a simple variant, a cavity in the extension module body forms at least most of the line for the fluid, with this cavity extending continuously between the two ends of the extension module body.

In some inexpensive variants, an extension module 118 does not have to functionally connect at least the handle module 114 and the device module 112 and only has to fulfill the extension function, so that the extension module 118 can be designed in a structurally simple manner.

For example, this is advantageously provided if no device technology is formed in the handle module 114 or if device technology formed in the handle module 114, for example at least one operating element, communicates wirelessly with the device technology formed in the device module 112.

In some favorable extension modules 118, at least their extension module body is rigidly designed and advantageously the respective fastening unit is rigidly arranged at the corresponding end of the extension module body. In particular, such rigid extension modules 118 are for a long handheld device corresponding device configurations 105I,II,III, as shown by way of example in 1 shown are advantageous.

In some inexpensive extension modules 118, the extension module body is at least partially, for example completely, flexible between its two ends, as is the case, for example, in the 4 illustrated embodiment. For example, this can achieve favorable handling for some applications, for example of the application module 116, at least largely independently of any movement of the device module 112.

Although a flexible extension module 118 is included in the 4 illustrated embodiment for a device configuration 105V without a handle module 114, wherein in some applications an inserted flexible extension module 118 can be advantageous in a device configuration 105 with a handle module 114.

In particular, each of the modules 112, 114, 116, 118 has at least one fastening unit 132 with which the corresponding module 112, 114, 116, 118 and a further module 112, 114, 116, 118 can be fastened to one another.

In particular, the device module 112 has two fastening units 132. In particular, a handle-side fastening unit 132 is for assembly with the handle module, either which is formed by directly fastening the two modules to one another or with at least one extension module 119 inserted and fastened therebetween. In particular, an application-side fastening unit is formed for assembly with at least one application module 116, either by directly fastening the two modules to one another or with at least one extension module 119 inserted and fastened therebetween.

Each of the extension modules 118 advantageously has two fastening units 132 in order to be able to be fastened to two further modules.

In particular, the handle module 114 has exactly one fastening unit 132.

In particular, the application module 116 has exactly one fastening unit 132.

In particular, the fastening units 132 each have at least one released state and at least one fastened state. In the released state, a fastening unit 132 is not fastened to another fastening unit of another module 132 and the two modules are detached from each other unless they are fastened to each other with other fastening units. In a fastened state, two fastening units 132 are fastened to each other and the two modules which have the two fastening units 132 are fastened to each other.

In particular, two different types of fastening units 132 are provided, for example a first type 132a and a second type 132b, wherein a fastening unit 132, 132a of one type and a fastening unit 132, 132b of the other type can be fastened to one another.

In particular, the handle module 114 has a fastening unit 132 of one type, for example a fastening unit of the first type 132a, and the handle-side fastening unit 132 of the device module 112 is of the other type, for example a fastening unit of the second type 132b, or vice versa.

In particular, the application module 116 has a fastening unit 132 of one type, for example a fastening unit of the second type 132b, and the application-side fastening unit 132 of the device module 112 is of the other type, for example a fastening unit of the first type 132a, or vice versa.

In some favorable variants, the fastening units 132 of the handle module 114 and of the application module 116 are of the same type, for example a fastening unit of the first type 132a each, and accordingly the handle-side and application-side fastening units of the device module 112 are of the same type and of a different type than the handle module 114 and the application module 116.

In some variants, the fastening units 132 on the handle module 114 and on the application module 116 are of different types and thus the handle-side fastening unit 132 and the application-side fastening unit 132 on the device module 112 are also of different types.

Advantageously, a fastening unit of one type, here for example a fastening unit of the first type 132a, has a fastening receptacle 136 and a fastening unit 132 of the other type, here for example a fastening unit of the second type 132b, has a fastening counterpart 138, as shown by way of example in the 5 and 6 is shown.

The fastening counterpart 138 is designed to be received in the fastening receptacle 136 in the fastened state. In particular, in a released state of a fastening unit 136, no fastening counterpart 138 of another fastening unit 132 is arranged and received in its fastening receptacle 136. In particular, in a released state of a fastening unit 132, its fastening counterpart 138 is not arranged and received in any fastening receptacle 136 of another fastening unit 132.

In particular, a respective fastening mechanism is provided, which is at least partially formed on each of the fastening units 132. In particular, the fastening mechanism is designed to hold fastening units 132 fastened to one another in the fastened state. In particular, in the fastened state, the fastening mechanism holds the fastening counterpart 138 in the fastening receptacle 136 in which the fastening counterpart 138 is received. Advantageously, the fastening mechanism is a detachable fastening mechanism and in a release position of the fastening mechanism, the fastening units 132 fastened to one another can be separated from one another and placed in their released state. For example, in the release position of the fastening mechanism, the fastening counterpart 138 can be removed from a fastening ment holder 136, in which the fastening counterpart is accommodated.

For example, the fastening mechanism is a locking mechanism. A fastening unit 132 of one type has a locking member which is received in a locking receptacle of a fastening unit 132 of the other type for fastening. In particular, the locking member can be pressed out of the locking receptacle so that the locking mechanism is in the release position.

Preferably, the device 100, in particular at least most of the device module 112, comprises a detection device 152 for detecting at least some device configurations 105.

In particular, the sensor 156 is associated with a fastening unit 132 and in particular arranged in this.

Conveniently, at least one fastening unit 132 of the device module 112, in particular at least the handle-side fastening unit 132, comprises a sensor 156, as shown by way of example in the 5 and 6 is shown.

In some variants, at least one fastening unit of at least the handle module 114 and/or the application module 116 and/or at least one extension module 118 comprises a sensor 156.

Advantageously, at least one sensor 156 and in particular the fastening units 132 of at least some of the further modules are designed such that the sensor 156 can at least partially detect whether the fastening unit 132 assigned to it is in a fastened state with another fastening unit 132.

In favorable variants, two subtypes of corresponding fastening units 132 are provided for at least one fastening unit 132 that is assigned to a sensor 156. The corresponding fastening units 132 of the two subtypes are fastening units 132 that can be fastened to the fastening unit 132 that is assigned to a sensor in a fastened state. For example, the corresponding fastening units 132 of the two subtypes are of a different type than the fastening unit 132 with the assigned sensor 156.

The fastening units 132 of the two subtypes differ in such a way that a detection result of the sensor 156 in a fastened state of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it with a fastening unit 132 of one of the two subtypes is different from a detection result of the sensor 156 in a fastened state of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it with a fastening unit 132 of the other of the two subtypes.

Advantageously, the corresponding fastening units 132 of one subtype are provided for modules of at least one category and the corresponding fastening units 132 of the other subtype are provided for the modules of the remaining categories. In particular, the categories of modules are the device module 112, the handle module 114, at least one application module 116 and the extension modules 118.

Advantageously, at least one sensor 156 can thus distinguish between a fastened state of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it with a corresponding fastening unit 132 of one of the two subtypes on the one hand and other states of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it. It can thus be advantageously recognized whether the module with the fastening unit 132 assigned to the at least one sensor is fastened to a module of at least one category.

In favorable variants, at least one sensor 156 is triggered in a fastened state of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it with a corresponding fastening unit 132 of one of the two subtypes, while this at least one sensor 156 is not triggered in a fastened state of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it with a corresponding fastening unit 132 of the other subtype and in a released state of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it.

In some variants, a detection result of at least one sensor 156 is different in at least three states of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it, namely in a fastened state with a corresponding fastening unit 132 of one subtype, a fastened state with a fastening unit 132 of the other subtype and in a released state, so that at least these three different states can be distinguished based on the detection result of this at least one sensor 156.

In advantageous variants, the handle-side fastening unit 132 of the device module 112 and a sensor 156 assigned to it as well as the fastening unit 132 of at least most of the other modules are designed such that this sensor 156 can be switched between a fastened state of the handle-side fastening unit 132 assigned to it with a fastening unit 132 of an extension module 118 on the one hand and other states of the handle-side fastening unit 132 assigned to it on the other hand.

In some advantageous variants, the handle-side fastening unit 132 and a sensor 156 associated with it as well as the fastening units 132 of at least most of the other modules are designed such that this sensor 156 can at least distinguish between a fastened state of the handle-side fastening unit 132 associated with it with a fastening unit of the handle module 114 on the one hand and other states of the handle-side fastening unit 132 associated with it on the other hand.

In some favorable variants, the application-side fastening unit 132 and a sensor 156 assigned to it as well as the fastening units 132 of at least most of the other modules are designed such that this sensor 156 can at least partially distinguish between different states of the application-side fastening unit 132 assigned to it, in particular at least between a fastened state with a fastening unit of an extension module 118 and/or a fastened state with a fastening unit 132 of at least one application module 116 and/or a released state.

In some variants in which several application modules 116 are provided, for example, the several application modules 116 have different subtypes of fastening units 132, so that in the case of at least one fastening unit 132 with an associated sensor 156, for example in the case of a fastening unit 132 of an extension module 118 and/or in the case of the application-side fastening unit 132 of the device module 112, this associated sensor 156 can distinguish between attached states of the fastening unit 132 associated with it with fastening units 132 of different application modules and thus it can be recognized which of the different application modules 116 is used in the device configuration 105.

In some variants, the fastening unit 132 of the handle module 114 and a sensor 156 associated with it, as well as the fastening units 132 of at least most of the other modules, are designed such that this associated sensor 156 can distinguish at least between some states of the fastening unit 132 associated with it, in particular between a fastened state with a fastening unit 132 of an extension module 118 and/or a fastened state with a fastening unit 132 of the device module 112 and/or a released state.

In particular, a sensor 156 in the fastening unit 132 associated with it has a detection area 162, as shown by way of example in the 5 and 6 is shown.

Conveniently, at least some of the corresponding fastening units 132 have an element 164 to be detected, wherein in a fastened state of the fastening units 132 the element 164 to be detected is arranged in the detection region 162 and is thus detected by the sensor 156.

In particular, only corresponding fastening units 132 of a subtype have an element 164 to be detected.

Corresponding fastening units 132 of a different subtype are designed such that in a fastened state with the fastening unit 132 having the detection area 162, no section of the corresponding fastening unit 132 of the other subtype that enables detection is arranged in the detection area 162. In particular, in such a fastened state with a fastening unit 132 of the other subtype, the sensor 156 of the fastening unit 132 with the detection area 162 is not triggered.

Advantageously, in this embodiment, this sensor 156 can distinguish between a fastened state of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it with a fastening unit 132 which has an element 164 to be detected, on the one hand, and further states of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it, in particular a released state and/or a fastened state with a fastening unit 132 without a section enabling detection, on the other hand.

For example, a detection area 162 of at least one sensor 156 is formed in a fastening receptacle 136 of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it and is advantageously formed at least in one end area, for example at one end 166 of the fastening receptacle 136. The fastening receptacle 136 extends from a receiving opening 168 to the end area and end 166 of the fastening receptacle 136.

In particular, a fastening counterpart 138 of fastening units in modules of which a fastened state is to be detected is longer than a fastening counterpart 138 of fastening units 132 in Modules that should not trigger the sensor 156. This is exemplified in the 5 and 6 for the fastening receptacle 136 of the handle-side fastening unit 132 of the device module 112 and a fastening counterpart 138 of a fastening unit 132 of an extension module 138, which is longer than a fastening counterpart 138 of a fastening unit 132 of the handle module 114. However, a fastening unit 132 of the application-side fastening unit 132 or a fastening receptacle 136 of a fastening unit 132 of another module and/or fastening counterparts 138 of fastening units of other modules can also be designed accordingly, so that the representations in the 5 and 6 are also representative of such designs.

In some advantageous variants, at least one sensor 156 is a contact sensor. In particular, the contact sensor is arranged at least partially in its detection area 162.

In particular, an element 164 to be detected for the contact sensor is a contact section of the corresponding fastening unit 132, wherein in a fastened state of the fastening unit 132 assigned to the contact sensor with the corresponding fastening unit 132, the contact section protrudes into the detection area 162 and triggers the contact sensor.

In particular, corresponding fastening units 132 of a subtype are designed such that in a fastened state with a fastening unit 132 to which a contact sensor is assigned, no section of the corresponding fastening unit 132 of this subtype protrudes into the detection area 162 of the contact sensor and thus the contact sensor is not triggered in such a fastened state.

In some advantageous variants, at least one sensor 156 of the detection device 152 is a non-contact sensor.

In particular, a non-contact sensor is a magnetic sensor, in particular a Hall sensor.

In particular, a corresponding fastening unit 132 of a subtype has a magnet as the element 164 to be detected. For example, a corresponding fastening unit 132 of another subtype does not comprise a magnet.

Thus, the magnetic sensor can distinguish between a fastened state of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it with a corresponding fastening unit 132 of the one subtype with a magnet on the one hand and other states of the fastening unit 132 assigned to it, in particular a released state and a fastened state with a corresponding fastening unit 132 of the other subtype without a magnet.

Preferably, the device 100, in particular at least its device technology in the device module 112 and/or at least one functional unit, can be operated in at least two different operating modes.

Advantageously, the at least two operating modes comprise at least one continuous operating mode and/or at least one action operating mode. The at least one continuous operating mode and the at least one action operating mode are active operating modes in a switched-on state.

In addition, the device 100, in particular at least its device technology and/or at least one functional unit thereof, has at least one switched-off state.

Advantageously, the device 100, in particular at least its device technology and/or at least one functional unit, has at least one sleep mode in the switched-on state.

In particular, the device 100 in connection with the hot fluid generation unit has at least one continuous operation mode and an action operation mode in a switched-on state and, for example, a sleep mode in the switched-on state.

In particular, the hot fluid generation unit emits a hot fluid in an active operating mode. In particular, in a rest mode, at least the emission of hot fluid is interrupted. For example, in a rest mode, however, heating elements of the hot fluid generation unit are still at least partially active.

In particular, in a rest mode, no fluid is passed through a hot fluid generation unit designed as a continuous flow heater and released as hot fluid.

In particular, in a hot fluid generation unit having a boiler unit for heating a fluid, no hot fluid is dispensed in a rest mode, but for example hot fluid or at least a heated fluid is kept ready in the boiler unit.

In particular, in the continuous operation mode, it is provided that at least the functional unit, in particular the device 100, remains in the continuous operation mode after switching to it until the continuous operation mode is actively ended by an actuation by a user.

In particular, a user can switch the device to continuous operation mode by operating a control element and end the continuous operation mode by operating the control element.

For example, after switching to the at least one continuous operation mode, the hot fluid generation unit continuously releases hot fluid until the continuous operation mode is terminated by a user actuation.

In the at least one action operating mode, it is provided that at least the functional unit, for example the device 100, remains in an active mode after switching to the action mode, but only if a required action by a user is carried out in time. In some variants, in order to remain in at least one action mode, an action by the user must be carried out after a predetermined time interval at the latest. In particular, the duration of the predetermined time interval is a few seconds, for example between one second and ten seconds. In some variants, a permanent action by the user is required to remain in at least one action operating mode.

For example, in at least one action operating mode, the hot fluid generating unit dispenses hot fluid as long as the user performs the required action in a timely manner and the dispensing of the hot fluid ends when the required action is not performed, i.e. the user does not perform the required action within the predetermined time interval or ends the continuous action.

It is particularly favorable if the device 100 switches between the at least two operating modes depending on a state detected by the detection device 152.

This is particularly advantageous if at least one functional unit of the device 100 is to be and/or is to be operated in different device configurations 105 in different operating modes.

For example, it is intended, in particular for safety-related reasons, that the hot fluid generation unit in a device configuration 105IV, which corresponds to a small handheld device, is operated only in an action operating mode.

In particular, advantageous variants provide for the detection device 152 to be designed to detect whether an extension module 118 is attached to the handle-side fastening unit 132 of the device module 112. In particular, in such a variant, it is provided that the hot fluid generation unit is operated in at least one action operating mode as standard, so that the hot fluid is only provided when the user takes regular and timely action. If in such a variant the detection device 152 detects that an extension module 118 is attached to the handle-side fastening unit 132 of the device module 112, the operating mode of at least the hot fluid generation unit is switched to a continuous operating mode, so that hot fluid is continuously released from the time of switching until the continuous operating mode is actively terminated.

In some variants, the detection device 152 is at least designed such that it at least detects whether the handle module 114 is attached to the device module 112 on the handle-side fastening unit 132. In particular, in such variants, at least the hot fluid generation unit switches to at least one action operating mode if the detection device 152 detects that the handle module 114 is attached to the handle-side fastening unit 132 with the device module 112.

In some favorable variants, the detection device 152 is at least designed such that it can detect whether an application module 116 is attached to the application-side attachment unit 132 of the device module 112. In particular, in such variants, it is provided that at least the operating mode of the hot fluid generation unit is switched to at least one action operating mode when the application-side attachment unit 132 of the device module 112 is in a fastened state with a fastening unit 132 of an application module 116. It is particularly advantageous in such variants if the detection device 152 is also designed to detect whether an extension module 118 with its fastening unit 132 is attached to the handle-side attachment unit 132. Then it is provided that at least the operating mode of the hot fluid generation unit is switched to a continuous operating mode when the handle-side fastening unit 132 is in a fastened state with a fastening unit 132 of an extension module 118, even if the application module 116 with its fastening unit 132 is attached, since then a device configuration corresponding to a long handheld device, for example the device configuration 105I, is formed and in this the hot fluid generation unit can be operated in a continuous operation mode.

A structure of a device 100 is described below in connection with, for example, illustrations in the 7 to 14 described in more detail. In some variants of this embodiment, the device 100 is modular, for example, made up of at least one device module 112 and/or a handle module 114 and/or at least one application module 116 and/or at least one extension module 118, in particular as explained above. In other variants of the embodiment, the device 100 is at least partially constructed as an integral device 100. Unless explicitly referred to one of these variants below, the corresponding description applies to the different variants of the device 100. Possible differences between the various variants of the embodiment are explained in more detail below.

The device 100 in particular comprises a device housing 212 and the device housing 212 defines a housing interior 214.

By way of example, a device housing 212 and a housing interior 214 in variants are shown in detail in the 7 and 8 shown.

In particular, the device housing 212 is formed from several parts. For example, two shell parts are provided which essentially define the housing interior 214. In particular, the housing parts are formed at least largely from a plastic.

An example is the 9 a housing part that at least co-defines the housing interior 214, for example a shell part, is shown for a variant in which a device module 112 and further modules that can be attached to the device module, in particular a handle module 114 and an application module 116 and, for example, at least one extension module 118, are provided. The device housing 212 is a housing of the device module 112.

Examples of variants of a handle module 114 in the 10 and 11 a part, in particular a shell part, which at least co-forms a handle module 114, is shown.

Examples include the 12 and 13 Variants of a housing part that at least co-defines the housing interior 214, for example a shell part, are shown for an embodiment in which the device 100 is at least partially an integral device 100. For example, a handle is also formed by the device housing 212. The device housing 212 is a housing of the at least partially integral device 100.

In particular, the device housing 212 has a front side 222 and a rear side 224, wherein the front side 222 and the rear side 224 are opposite sides of the device housing 212 with respect to a main direction 216.

In particular, an arrangement point 232 for an application unit 236 is formed on the front side 222, wherein an application unit 236 is at least arrangeable and/or arranged at the arrangement point 232.

In some variants of the device 100, the arrangement point 232 is a fastening unit 132, which is preferably at least partially designed as explained above. In these variants, the application unit 236 is a separate application module 116, which is preferably at least partially designed as explained above. The separately designed application unit 236 has a corresponding fastening unit 132, with which this application unit 236 can be fastened, in particular detachably, to the arrangement point 232 designed as a fastening unit 132.

In some variants of the device 100, the application unit 236 is formed integrally with the device housing 212. In particular, at least a part of the application unit 236 is then arranged, in particular fixedly arranged, on at least one part of the device housing 212 that also defines the housing interior 214 at the arrangement point 232. For example, these parts are joined together at the arrangement point 222. For example, in such variants, at least a part of the application unit 236 and at least one housing part that also defines the housing interior 214 are at least partially formed in one piece.

In particular, the device housing 212 has a top 242 and a bottom 244, wherein the top 242 and the bottom 244 are opposite sides of the device housing 212 in a vertical direction 246 of the device housing 212.

The vertical direction 246 and the main direction 226 of the device housing 212 run at least approximately perpendicular to each other.

In particular, the device housing 112 has a particularly flat base 252 on the underside 244. In particular, the base 252 extends at least substantially in the main direction 226 and the transverse direction 256.

A transverse direction 256 runs at least approximately perpendicular to the main direction 226 and at least approximately perpendicular to the vertical direction 246 of the device housing 212. For example, the device housing 212 has two lateral sides which are opposite sides of the device housing 212 in the transverse direction 256.

In this description, the direction indications front and rear are to be understood with respect to the main direction 226, the direction indications top and bottom are to be understood with respect to the vertical direction 246, and the direction indication sideways are to be understood with respect to the transverse direction 256.

The device 100 comprises a handle unit 262. The handle unit 262 comprises at least one handle element 264, which forms a handle.

In some advantageous embodiments, the handle unit 262 is designed as a separate handle module 114. Examples are shown in the 10 and 11 Variants of a handle unit 262 designed as a handle module 114 are shown.

In some advantageous embodiments, the handle unit 262 is formed at least partially, preferably at least largely, from the device housing 212, in particular from at least one housing part that also defines the housing interior 214. Variants with a handle unit 262, which is in particular at least partially integrated into the device housing 212, are shown by way of example in the 12 and 13 shown.

Unless explicitly stated below, the description of a handle unit 262 refers both to embodiments and variants thereof in which the handle unit 262 is a separate handle module and to other embodiments and variants thereof in which the handle unit 262 is at least partially integrated into the device housing 212.

The handle element 264 extends longitudinally between a front end 266 and a rear end 268, wherein the front end 266 is advantageously arranged in front of the rear end 268 with respect to the main direction 226.

The device housing 212 has an arrangement point 272 at which the handle unit 262 can be arranged and/or is arranged on at least a part of the device housing 212.

In embodiments in which the handle unit 262 is a separate handle module 114, a fastening unit 132 is formed at the arrangement point 272 for the handle unit 262. In addition, the handle module 114 forming the handle unit 262 has a fastening unit 132, which is preferably arranged at the front end 266 of the handle element 264. In particular, the fastening units 132 are at least partially formed as explained above.

In embodiments in which the handle unit 262 is at least partially integrated into the device housing 212, the handle element 264 or an arrangement element for the handle element preferably merges into a further element and/or a further section of the device housing 212, in particular in one piece, at the arrangement point 272, and/or the handle element 264 or the arrangement element and the further element and/or the further section of the device housing 212 are joined together, for example, at the arrangement point 272.

In particular, the location 272 is formed at the front end 266 of the handle member 264 or the location member.

For example, the locating element extends from the locating location to the front end 266 of the handle element 264.

In some advantageous embodiments, the handle element 264 has at least one free end 266, 268, which is in particular the rear end 268, as exemplified in variants in the 2 , 7 , 10 and 12 is shown.

In some advantageous embodiments, at least one further element of the handle unit 262 is arranged at the front end 266 of the handle element 264 and at least one further element of the handle unit 262 is arranged at the rear end 268 of the handle element 264, as shown by way of example in variants in the 3 , 8 , 11 and 13 is shown.

Conveniently, the handle unit 262 comprises at least one support element 276, 278, preferably at least one front support element 276 and/or one rear support element 278.

Advantageously, the at least one support element 276, 278 is arranged at one of the longitudinal ends 266, 268 of the handle element 264 and In particular, the front support element 276 is arranged at the front longitudinal end 266 and/or the rear support element 278 is arranged at the rear longitudinal end 268.

Conveniently, the device housing 212 comprises at least one support element 284, on which the at least one support element 276, 278, in particular the at least two support elements 276 and 278, are supported.

In variants in which the handle unit 262 is a separate handle module 114, the support element 284 comprises in particular a support surface 286 on which the at least one support element 276, 278 or the plurality of support elements 276 and 278 are supported in a fastened state.

In some variations, it is provided that the at least one support element 276, 278 rests directly on the support surface 286 and is supported on the support element 284.

In advantageous variations, it is provided that the handle unit 262 has a contact element 288, which is advantageously formed at least partially in one piece with at least one support element 276, 278, and in a fastened state the contact element 288 rests against the support surface 286 of the support element 284. In particular, the support element 276 can thus advantageously be indirectly supported over a large area on the support element 284 via the contact element 288.

In particular, in some variants, the abutment element 288 extends between the two support elements 276 and 278 and the abutment element 288 is arranged with opposite longitudinal ends on one of the two support elements 276 and 278.

In variants with at least partially integrated handle unit 262, at least one support element 276, 278 and preferably the two support elements 276 and 278 are arranged to support each other on the support element 288, in particular formed on the support element 288.

For example, the two support elements 276 and 278 extend, in particular at least substantially in the vertical direction 246, from the handle element 264, so that the support element 284 and/or the contact element 288 is spaced from the handle element 264.

Conveniently, the handle unit 262 has a through-opening 292, wherein the handle element 264, in particular with a downwardly oriented side, partially delimits the through-opening 292.

For example, the front support element 276 limits the access opening 292 at the front and the rear support element 278 limits the access opening 292 at the rear.

Preferably, an element arranged opposite the handle element 264 in the vertical direction 246 delimits the access opening 292 at the bottom. For example, the element arranged opposite is an element of the device housing 212. In some favorable variants, the element arranged opposite is an element of the handle unit 262, which extends, for example, between the two support elements 276 and 278. In particular, the element arranged opposite is a support element 284 or a contact element 288, depending on the variant.

Advantageously, the through-opening 292 is formed continuously in the transverse direction 256 so that a user of the device 100 can reach through the through-opening 292 in this direction to grasp the handle formed by the gripping element 264.

Thus, the device housing 212 has a handle region 296 in which, depending on the variant of an embodiment, a handle unit 262 is formed and/or can be arranged and at least fastened to the device housing 212.

Thus, in some variants of some embodiments, the grip element 264 and advantageously at least one support element 276, 278 and, for example, the support element 284 are formed in the grip region 296.

In some embodiments, the device housing 212 has a recess 298 in the handle region 296, into which the separate handle unit 262 attachable to the device housing 212 can be inserted.

Conveniently, the arrangement point 272 for the handle unit 262, which preferably comprises a fastening unit 132, is arranged at a front end of the recess 298.

For example, the recess 298 is essentially limited at the bottom by the support surface 286.

In particular, the grip region 296 is located above a longitudinal center plane 312 of the device housing 212 and behind a vertical center plane 314 of the device housing 212.

In particular, the longitudinal center plane 312 extends at least substantially in the main direction 226 and the transverse direction 256 and runs at least approximately perpendicular to the vertical direction 246. In particular, at least 40% of a total extension of the device housing 212 in the vertical direction 246 is located above and/or below the longitudinal center plane 312.

In particular, the vertical center plane 314 extends at least substantially in the vertical direction 246 and in the transverse direction 256, and the vertical center plane 314 runs at least approximately perpendicular to the main direction 226. In particular, at least 40% of a total extent of the device housing 212 in the main direction 226 is located in front of and/or behind the vertical center plane 314.

Between the arrangement point 232 for the application unit 236 and the arrangement point 272 for the handle unit 262, the device housing 212 has an arrangement section 322.

An example is the 14 the arrangement section 322 is shown in an enlarged view for a variant in which the arrangement points 232, 272 for the application unit 236 and for the handle unit 262 are designed as fastening units 132.

A design of the arrangement section 322 as explained below is advantageously provided in variants in which at least one of the arrangement points 232, 272 is designed as a fastening unit 132 and/or in which at least the application unit 236 and/or the handle unit 262 are at least partially integrally formed together with the device housing 212. The representation in the 14 also representative for other variants and, fortunately, the ones associated with the 14 explained trainings at least partially also in other variants, for example those for which the representations in the 12 and 13 are exemplary.

In particular, the arrangement location 272 for the handle unit 262 is arranged further up with respect to the vertical direction 246 than the arrangement location 232 for the application unit 236.

Advantageously, the arrangement section 322 is oriented obliquely downwards in its extension forwards towards the front side 222.

In particular, the arrangement section 322 extends at least substantially along a geometric arrangement axis 326. The arrangement axis 326 runs through the two arrangement locations 232 and 272.

In particular, an axial direction of the arrangement axis 326 is defined by an elongated extension of an arrangement element at the arrangement location 232, 272. For example, an arrangement element is a fastening counterpart 138 and/or a fastening receptacle 136 or an element at which a part of the application unit 236 or handle unit 262 on the one hand and a part of the arrangement section 322 merge into one another and/or are joined to one another.

A central axis of an arrangement element advantageously runs on the arrangement axis 326 or at least approximately parallel to the arrangement axis 326, wherein the central axis is defined by an elongated extension of the arrangement element. If the central axis is offset from the arrangement axis 326, the offset between the two axes is preferably smaller than the elongated extension of the arrangement element, in particular smaller than half of this elongated extension.

Preferably, device electronics are arranged at least partially, in particular at least mostly, in the arrangement section 322.

The arrangement section 322 advantageously has an outer wall segment 332 of the device housing 212. In particular, the outer wall segment 332 runs obliquely to the main direction 226 and obliquely to the vertical direction 246 between the two arrangement points 232 and 272. For example, the outer wall segment 332 of the arrangement section 322 runs at least partially parallel to the arrangement axis 326 and/or at least partially obliquely, advantageously only slightly obliquely, to the arrangement axis 326.

In particular, the device housing 212 has an interaction side 342. Preferably, the interaction side 342 is formed on the arrangement section 322 and in particular on its wall segment 332.

On the interaction side 342, the device 100 has at least one operating element 246 of an operating device of the device 100 and/or at least one display element of a display device of the device 100.

In particular, at least one control element 346 is designed to switch the device on and off. At least one control element 346 is advantageously provided, the actuation of which is required as an action in at least one action operating mode. In particular, at least one control element 346 is a button.

At least one state of the device 100 is displayed using at least one display element. For example, a display element shows whether the device is switched on and/or off. In particular, a display element shows at least one operating mode in which the device is operated.

Depending on the variant, at least one display element is a simple light source, in particular a light-emitting diode. In some variants, at least one display element is designed for a more complex reproduction of information about a status of the device and is, for example, a display.

In particular, the arrangement of the control elements and/or display elements for interaction between the user and the device on the slanted interaction side 242 of the arrangement section 322 is favorable, since these elements are thus conveniently accessible and/or visible to a user when using the device 100 in different orientations. The arrangement of the control elements 346 on the arrangement section 322 and in particular close to the arrangement point 272 for the handle unit 262 is favorable, since these control elements 346 are thus easily accessible to the user who holds the device 100 by the handle of the handle unit 262.

Conveniently, the device 100 comprises a water tank 352. The water tank 352 can be arranged in a water tank region 354 of the device housing 212 on the device housing 212 and can be detachably fastened to the device housing 212.

In particular, the water tank 352 has a storage space for storing a liquid.

The water tank 352 advantageously has a fluid connection. The fluid connection can be used to connect the storage space of the water tank 352 to a line device in the device housing 212 in a fluid-conducting manner. A hose is advantageously arranged in the storage space, one end of which leads to the fluid connection. A weight is arranged at another end of the hose and at this end the hose opens into the storage space. Advantageously, even when the device 100 is oriented in different directions, the end of the hose opening into the storage space is arranged in a lower area of the storage space in relation to gravity. This means that this end of the hose is located in the liquid even when the liquid level in the storage space is low and the liquid can be drained off via the hose.

In particular, the device housing 212 has a recess 356 in the water tank region 354, wherein the water tank 352 is received in the recess 356 for fastening.

In particular, a fastening mechanism for the water tank 352 is at least partially formed on the device housing 212 in the water tank region 354. For example, a fastening mechanism designed as a locking mechanism comprises locking members and locking receptacles. The locking receptacles and the locking members lock with one another for a releasable fastening of the water tank 352. In particular, at least some locking members are formed on the water tank 352 and corresponding locking receptacles on the device housing 212 and/or at least some locking members are formed on the device housing 212 and corresponding locking receptacles are formed on the water tank 352.

Advantageously, the water tank region 354 is formed in a rear region with respect to the main direction 226 and a lower region of the device housing 212 with respect to the vertical direction 246.

In particular, the device housing 212 has an edge portion 358 which delimits the recess 356 for the water tank 352. Advantageously, the edge portion 358 initially extends from the rear side 224 of the device housing 212 essentially forwards in the main direction 226 and then extends downwards in the vertical direction 246 to the underside 244 of the device housing 212.

The device housing 212 includes a rear portion 364 which extends to the back side 224.

In particular, the rear portion 364 is at least partially delimited at the top by the element delimiting the handle region 296, that is to say in particular by the contact element 388 or the support element 284, and at least partially delimited at the bottom by the edge portion 158 of the water tank region 354.

In particular, the rear portion 364 is at least partially a narrow portion with respect to its extension in the vertical direction 246, since the handle region 296 is formed at least partially above the rear portion 364 and the water tank region 354 is formed below the rear portion 364. For example, a narrow extension of the rear portion 364 is in the vertical direction 246 at most 20% of the total extension of the device housing 212 in the vertical direction 246.

In particular, the rear portion 364 extends forward from the rear side 224 along the handle region 296 and the water tank region 354 and to the front end of that region 296, 354 which extends further forward in the main direction 226.

For example, the handle region 296 extends further forward than the water tank region 354. In the area along the main direction 226 in which the handle region 296 still advantageously extends forward, but no longer the water tank region 352, the rear portion 364 advantageously widens downwards to the bottom 244 of the device housing 212.

The device 100 includes a power supply unit 372. The power supply unit 372 is conveniently arranged at least substantially in the rear portion 364.

In inexpensive variants, the device 100 is a wired device and the power supply unit 372 includes a cable with a power stretcher for connection to a power outlet.

In particular, the device housing 212 has a power supply opening 374 through which the cable is introduced into the housing interior 214. Conveniently, the power supply opening 374 is formed on the rear side 224 at the rear portion 364.

For example, the cable leads through the rear section 364 to at least one further element of the power supply unit 372, from which the electrical energy is distributed to units and/or electronics in the device housing interior 214. The power supply unit 372 advantageously comprises a transformer in order to transform an output voltage provided by the power connection to a voltage required by the device technology.

In some variants, the power supply unit 372 comprises an energy storage device, for example a battery and/or accumulator. In these variants too, the power supply unit 372 advantageously comprises a distribution element in order to distribute the electrical energy provided by the energy storage device.

A hot fluid generating unit 378 of the device 100 is advantageously arranged in a front region of the device housing 212 with respect to the main direction 226 and preferably close to the arrangement location 232 for the application unit 236. In particular, the hot fluid generating unit 378 is arranged below the arrangement section 322 with respect to the vertical direction 246.

In some advantageous variants, the hot fluid generation unit 378 comprises a flow heater for heating the liquid.

In some inexpensive variants, the hot fluid generation unit 378 includes a boiler with heating elements for heating the liquid.

In particular, the hot fluid generation unit 378 heats the liquid to a hot fluid with a temperature of at least 60 °Celsius, preferably at least 80 °Celsius, for example at least 90 °Celsius. For example, the hot fluid comprises hot liquid and/or a gaseous medium, in particular water vapor.

In particular, the device 100 comprises a conduit device for guiding a fluid in the housing interior 214.

The hot fluid generation unit 378 can be connected to the water tank 352 in a fluid-conducting manner via the line device, at least when the latter is attached to the device housing 212.

In particular, a line section of the line device leads to the arrangement point 232 for the application unit 236.

In particular, the application unit 236 can be connected to the line device at least in a fluid-conducting manner. Advantageously, an integral application unit 236 is connected to the line device in a fluid-conducting manner. Advantageously, a separate application module 116 is connected to the line device in a fluid-conducting manner at least in an assembled device configuration 105.

In particular, in an active operating mode, the hot fluid generation unit 378 delivers hot fluid to the application unit 236 via the line device. In particular, no hot fluid is supplied to the application unit 236, at least in a rest mode and/or a switched-off state.

A pump 382 is advantageously arranged in the line device. In particular, the pump 382 is arranged between the water tank region 354 and the hot fluid generation unit 378 with respect to the main direction 226. In particular, the pump 382 is arranged in the rear section 364 and there preferably arranged in the area widened to the underside 244.

Preferably, the device 100 comprises a cartridge 410. In particular, a fluid modification material 414 is arranged in the cartridge 410 for at least partially processing the liquid from the water tank 352.

Advantageously, the liquid provided by the water tank 352 comprises water, in particular at least mainly water. For example, at least one additive is added to the water. Advantageously, the fluid modification material 414 is designed to at least partially descale the water.

Conveniently, the cartridge 410 is arranged in the rear portion 364 and there preferably in the area widened to the underside 244.

Preferably, the cartridge 410 is arranged with respect to the main direction 226 between the water tank region 354 and the hot fluid generation unit 378 and in particular between the water tank region 354 and the pump 382.

An example is a cartridge 410 in the 15 and 16 shown.

The cartridge 410 includes a container 422 having an interior space 424. In particular, the container 422 is constructed from a plurality of outer wall sections 428.

Conveniently, the outer wall portions 428 enclose the interior space 424 and form an exterior of the container 422.

Conveniently, the container 422 is at least substantially cuboid-shaped and a wall section 428 is formed on each side of the container 422.

For example, the container 422 has six outer wall sections 428I to 428VI.

Insofar as the wall sections 428 are at least substantially identical, the plurality of wall sections 428 are described together and in particular the reference to a wall section 428 is to be understood such that at least one of the plurality of wall sections 428, preferably at least some, for example all, of the plurality of wall sections 428 have the described feature.

In particular, when describing a wall section and/or an element/feature of a wall section, reference is to be made to at least one specific wall section in particular, a Roman numeral designating this specific wall section is appended to the corresponding reference symbol. The corresponding Roman numeral is to be understood merely as a designation of the specific wall section and the Roman numeral does not imply any further information, in particular the Roman numerals do not imply any ranking of the wall sections 428 and/or they do not imply any information about the total number of wall sections.

In particular, each of the wall sections 428 has a respective inner wall surface 432 and a respective outer wall surface 434. The inner wall surface 432 and the outer wall surface 434 of a wall section 428 are opposite wall surfaces of the wall section 428 in a thickness direction 438 of the wall section 428.

With the inner wall surface 432, the wall section 428 delimits the interior space 424 and the outer wall surface 434 faces an environment of the container 422 and in particular an environment of the cartridge 410. In particular, the interior space 424 is enclosed by the inner wall surfaces 432 of all wall sections 428.

In particular, each of the wall sections 428 extends substantially in an extension surface. The extension surface runs at least locally at least approximately perpendicular to the thickness direction 438 of the wall section 428.

In preferred variants, at least some of the wall sections 428 are flat wall sections and their extension surface is an extension plane which is spanned by two extension directions 442, 444 which run at least approximately perpendicular to one another. In a flat wall section 428, its thickness direction 438 is oriented in the same direction at least over a large part of the extension of the flat wall section 428.

In some variants, at least one wall section 428 is curved. In the case of a curved wall section 428, its extension surface is also correspondingly curved and the orientation of the thickness direction 438 of the curved wall section 428 changes along the extension of the curvature.

For example, a respective wall section 428 extends in a longitudinal extension direction 442 and in a transverse extension direction 444, wherein the longitudinal extension direction 442 and the transverse extension direction 444 spans the geometric extension surface.

A respective wall section 428 extends in its extension area to at least one end region 452, 454 and in particular it extends between several end regions 452, 454.

For example, a wall section 428 extends in its longitudinal extension direction 442 between two opposite longitudinal end regions 452 and/or a wall section 428 extends in its transverse extension direction 444 between two opposite transverse end regions 454.

In particular, an extension of a wall section 428 in an extension direction 442, 444, for example in its longitudinal extension direction 442 and/or in its transverse extension direction 444, is larger, preferably substantially larger, than its thickness measured in the thickness direction 438.

In particular, at most 30% of a total extension of a wall section 428 in its extension direction 442, 444, for example in its longitudinal extension direction 442 and/or in its transverse extension direction 444, is located in an end region 452, 454.

In particular, two wall sections 428 with respective end regions 452, 454 are arranged next to one another in an edge region 462. In particular, the end regions 452, 454 of three wall sections 428 and thus also the edge regions 462 between these wall sections 428 meet in a respective corner region 466.

For example, at least some wall sections are rounded in their end regions 452, 454 and accordingly the container 422 has at least some rounded edge regions 462 and/or corner regions 466, as shown by way of example in 15 is shown.

In particular, the container 422 expands in an expansion plane 468. The expansion plane 468 is spanned by two expansion directions 472 and 474, which, for example, run at least approximately perpendicular to one another.

In particular, the container 422 has a smaller extension in a height direction 476 than in the two extension directions 472 and 474. In particular, the height direction 476 runs at least approximately perpendicular to the extension plane 468.

A height of the container 422 is measured in the height direction 476. For example, the height of the container 422 is at most 70%, in particular at most 50% of a smallest extension of the container 422 in the extension directions 472, 474.

In particular, two wall sections 428, for example a wall section 428I and a wall section 428II, are spaced apart from one another in the height direction 476 and are advantageously arranged opposite one another in the height direction 476. Preferably, these two wall sections 428I,II extend at least approximately parallel to the geometric extension plane 468. In particular, the extension directions 442I,II of these two wall sections 428I,II, which are spaced apart from one another in the height direction 476, run essentially parallel to the geometric extension plane 468.

In particular, the two wall sections 428I and 428II, which are spaced apart from one another in the height direction 476, have substantially the same shape in their extension surfaces and thus define, for example, a base area of the container 422.

In particular, the wall sections 428I,II, which are spaced apart from one another in the height direction 476, are essentially rectangular, so that the base area of the container 422 is also essentially rectangular, wherein preferably the corners are rounded, as shown by way of example in 15 is shown.

In particular, at least one wall section 428 extends between the two wall sections 428I,II, which are spaced apart from one another in the height direction 476, and is arranged in respective edge regions 462 on the two wall sections 428I,II.

In particular, the container 422 is essentially cylindrical in shape, with a wall section 428 extending in opposite base surfaces of the cylindrical shape and at least one wall section 428 extending in a lateral surface of the cylindrical shape.

For example, lateral wall sections 428, here the wall sections 428III to 428VI, extend in one of their extension directions 442, 444 in the height direction 476 between the two wall sections 428I,II, which in the Height direction 476 are spaced from each other, and in their other extension direction 442, 444 between two other lateral wall sections 428III, IV, V, VI.

For example, two wall sections are arranged opposite one another in each of the two expansion directions 472, 474 of the container 422. For example, the wall sections 428III and 428V are arranged opposite one another in the expansion direction 472 and the wall sections 428IV and 428VI are arranged opposite one another in the expansion direction 474.

In particular, the container 422 is formed from at least two different container parts 482, 484. In particular, the respective container parts 482, 484 are each formed in one piece.

At least some of the container parts 482, 484, in particular all of the container parts 482, 484, each comprise at least one wall section 428.

Advantageously, one of the container parts, here the container part 484, is formed essentially from a wall section 428 and another container part, here the container part 482, comprises the remaining wall sections 428.

In particular, one container part 484, which is essentially formed from a wall section 428, is designed as a lid for the other container part 482. In particular, one of the wall sections spaced apart in the height direction 476, here the wall section 428II, essentially forms the one, in particular lid-like, container part 484.

Wall sections 428, which are formed by a same container part 482, 484 and are arranged next to one another in an edge region 462, are preferably formed onto one another in their edge region 462.

Wall sections 428, which are formed into different container parts 482, 484 and are arranged next to one another in an edge region 462, are preferably connected to one another in a form-fitting manner in their edge region 462, at least in an assembled state of the container 422. The two wall sections 428 advantageously have interlocking elements 492, 494 for this purpose. For example, one of the two form-locking elements 492, 494 has a groove and the other of the two form-locking elements 492, 494 has a projection that engages in the groove.

The container 422 has an inlet 512 which opens into the interior 424 at an inlet opening 514. The container 422 has an outlet 516 which opens into the interior 424 at an outlet opening 518.

In particular, the inlet opening 514 is formed in one container part 482, 484 and the outlet opening 518 is formed in another container part 482, 484.

The inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518 are connected to one another in the interior space 424 in a fluid-conducting manner at least along a connection 526. Thus, a liquid flowing through the inlet opening 514 into the interior space 424 can reach the outlet opening 518 along the connection 526.

In particular, the connection 526 runs at least along a geometric connecting line 528. In particular, the connecting line 528 runs straight and along the shortest distance between the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518. For example, the connecting line 528 is the straight line that runs through a center point of the inlet opening 514 and a center point of the outlet opening 518.

Advantageously, the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518 are arranged such that the connection 526 between the two openings 514 and 518 is optimized in length.

In particular, a length optimization of the connection 526 and in particular a length optimization of the connecting line 528 is to be understood as meaning that it is designed to be as long as possible, whereby practical and/or technical conditions must be taken into account, for example. For example, an opening 514, 518 cannot be designed arbitrarily close to an edge of one of the container parts 482, 484, but rather a sufficiently large edge section must be present to ensure the stability of the container part 482, 484.

In particular, the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518 are arranged such that the shortest connection 526 between the two openings 514, 518 is the longest possible.

For the length optimization, it is preferably provided that the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518 are formed in wall sections 428 that are arranged opposite one another in a direction. In particular, the inlet opening 514 is formed in the wall section 428II and this wall section 428II is connected in the height direction 476 to the wall section 428I in which the outlet opening 518 is formed, arranged opposite one another.

In particular, the inlet opening 514 is formed in an end region 452, 454 of the wall section 428 in which the inlet opening 514 is formed. In particular, the outlet opening 518 is formed in an end region 452, 454 of the wall section 428 in which the outlet opening 518 is formed.

In particular, the two end regions 452, 454, in each of which an opening from the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518 is formed, are located opposite each other in at least one direction.

In particular, the longitudinal extension direction 442II of the wall section 428II in which the inlet opening 514 is formed and the longitudinal extension direction 442I of the wall section 428I in which the outlet opening 518 is formed run at least approximately parallel to one another and/or the transverse extension direction 444II of the wall section 428II in which the inlet opening 514 is formed and the transverse extension direction 444I of the wall section 428I in which the outlet opening 518 is formed run at least approximately parallel to one another.

In particular, the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518 are formed in regions of their wall sections 428, wherein these regions are opposite regions in at least one extension direction 442, 444, preferably in both extension directions 442, 444, of their wall sections 448.

In particular, the region in which the inlet opening 514 is formed in its wall section and the region in which the outlet opening 518 is formed in its wall section 428 are located opposite to each other with respect to at least one of the expansion directions 472, 474 of the container 422, preferably in both expansion directions 472, 474 of the container 422.

In particular, the projection of the inlet opening 514 and the projection of the outlet opening 518 on at least one geometric projection plane are located opposite to each other in at least one direction.

In particular, the projection of the inlet opening 514 and the projection of the outlet opening 518 in a projection plane 534 running at least substantially perpendicular to the height direction 476 are located opposite to one another in at least one direction, in particular in at least one extension direction 472, 474 of the container 422, preferably in both extension directions 472, 474 of the container 422, opposite to one another and/or in at least one extension direction 442, 444 of a wall section 428 in which the inlet opening 514 or the outlet opening 518 is formed, preferably in at least some of these extension directions 442, 444 of the wall sections 428 in which the inlet opening 514 or the outlet opening 518 is formed, opposite to one another.

In particular, the projection of the inlet opening 514 and the projection of the outlet opening 518 are located opposite each other in a projection plane 536 that runs parallel to the height direction 476, in a direction that runs perpendicular to the height direction 476 and in the projection plane 536.

In particular, further projection planes in which the projections of the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518 are located opposite to each other in at least one direction are projection planes which run at least approximately perpendicular to at least one extension direction 472, 474 of the container 422 and/or projection planes which run at least approximately perpendicular to at least one extension direction 442, 444 of a wall section 428 in which the inlet opening 514 or the outlet opening 518 is formed.

In particular, the inlet opening 514 is formed in at least one edge region 462, wherein this edge region 462 is formed by the wall section 428 in which the inlet opening 514 is formed, and at least one further wall section 428. Preferably, the inlet opening 514 is formed in a corner region 466 of the container 422, wherein this corner region 466 is formed by the wall section in which the inlet opening 514 is formed and at least two further wall sections 428. In particular, in this exemplary embodiment, the corner region 466 and thus also edge regions 462 in which the inlet opening 514 is formed extend at least transversely through one wall section 428II or to the height direction 476, and further wall sections 428IV and 428V, one of whose extension directions 442, 444 runs at least substantially parallel to the height direction 476.

In particular, the outlet opening 518 is formed in at least one edge region 462 of the container 422, wherein this edge region 462 by the wall section 428 in which the outlet opening 518 is formed, and at least one further wall section 428. Preferably, the outlet opening 518 is formed in a corner region 466 of the container 422, this corner region being formed by the wall section 428 in which the outlet opening 518 is formed, and at least two further wall sections 428. In particular, in this exemplary embodiment, the corner region 466 and thus also edge regions 462 in which the outlet opening 518 is formed are formed by a wall section 428I which extends at least transversely to the height direction 476, and further wall sections 428III and 428VI, one of whose extension directions 442, 444 run at least substantially parallel to the height direction 476.

Advantageously, the wall sections 428 which form the edge region 462 and in particular the corner region 466 in which the inlet opening 514 is formed are different wall sections than those wall sections 428 which form the edge region 462 and in particular the corner region 466 in which the outlet opening 518 is formed.

In particular, the edge region 462 and in particular the corner region 466 in which the inlet opening 514 is formed, on the one hand, and the edge region 462 and in particular the corner region 466 in which the outlet opening 518 is formed, on the other hand, are oppositely located regions 462, 466 in at least the height direction 476 and/or in at least one of the two expansion directions 472, 474 of the container 422, preferably in both of the two expansion directions 472, 474. Advantageously, these edge regions 462 and/or corner regions 466 are oppositely located in several of these directions 476, 472, 474.

In particular, the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518 are formed in regions of the interior space 424, in particular in edge regions 462 and/or corner regions 466, which are located opposite one another along a spatial diagonal of the interior space 424.

In particular, the spatial diagonal runs obliquely to at least the height direction 476 and/or obliquely to the two extension directions 472, 474.

In particular, a connection 526 between the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518 is thus designed to optimize its length, since the two openings 514, 518 are formed in opposite regions, in particular opposite edge regions 462 and/or corner regions 466, of the container 422.

Advantageously, the connection 526 between the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518 is designed to be barrier-free at least in an unfilled state of the cartridge 410. Advantageously, the direct connection 526, which runs in particular along the connecting line 528 between the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518, is designed to be barrier-free at least in the unfilled state.

Advantageously, a connecting space region 542 is designed to be barrier-free, at least in the unfilled state. The connecting space region 542 extends in a connecting direction 544 from the inlet opening 514 along the connection 526 to the outlet opening 518 and extends transversely to the connecting direction 544.

In particular, the connecting space region 542 extends along the direct connecting line 528 from the inlet opening 514 to the outlet opening 518.

Advantageously, the connecting space region 542 extends transversely to the connecting direction 544 at least with an extent which at least substantially corresponds to the extent of the inlet opening 514 and/or the extent of the outlet opening 518 and in particular corresponds to at least twice this extent.

It is particularly advantageous if the connecting space region 542 extends at least up to the inner wall surface 432 of the wall section 428 in which the inlet opening 514 is formed, and up to the inner wall surface 432 of the wall section 428 in which the outlet opening 518 is formed, and/or preferably up to inner wall surfaces 432 of at least some other wall sections 428, in particular up to the inner wall surfaces 432 of all wall sections 428.

In particular, the entire interior space 424 is designed to be barrier-free, at least in the unfilled state.

In particular, an area of the interior 424 is designed to be barrier-free if no container part and/or no other part of the cartridge 410 and/or no other part protrudes into it. In particular, a barrier-free area is free of any parts.

In particular, the barrier-free connection 526 and the barrier-free connecting space area 542 is advantageous because a large amount of fluid modification material 414 can be filled into the barrier-free area, in particular into the entire barrier-free interior space 424, and in the filled state, a liquid flowing from the inlet opening 514 to the outlet opening 518 can easily flow around the filled fluid modification material 414, but otherwise the flow of the liquid is not hindered by the barrier-free nature of the connection 526.

By arranging the inlet opening 514 and the outlet opening 518 such that the length of the connection 526 between the two openings 514 and 518 is optimized, as much fluid modification material 414 as possible is flowed around by the fluid flowing through the connection 526, which is as long as possible.

Conveniently, the fluid modification material 414 is a granular medium.

In particular, this enables a favorable filling of the interior space 424 and the granular medium offers a large surface for reaction with the liquid flowing through the interior space 424.

In particular, the fluid modification material 414 is designed for treating the liquid, for example for decalcifying water.

Advantageously, a sieve 554 is arranged in the inlet opening 514. In particular, a sieve 558 is arranged in the outlet opening 518. In particular, the sieve 554 in the inlet opening 514 and/or the sieve 558 in the outlet opening 518 is designed such that it at least largely prevents the in particular granular fluid modification material 414 from escaping from the interior 424 through the opening 514, 518. In particular, at least the sieve 554, 558 in the inlet opening 514 and/or in the outlet opening 518 is designed such that the liquid flowing through it can pass through this sieve 554, 558 as unhindered as possible. For example, at least the sieve 554 in the inlet opening 514 is designed such that any foreign particles that may be present in the incoming liquid are stopped by the sieve 554 and thus at least in reduced numbers or, advantageously, at least substantially not at all, enter the interior space 424.

In particular, the inlet 512 comprises an inlet nozzle 564. The inlet nozzle 564 comprises a flow space for the liquid leading to the inlet opening 514, wherein the flow space is surrounded on the circumference by a nozzle wall. The inlet nozzle 564, in particular its flow space and/or its nozzle wall, advantageously extends between the inlet opening 514 and one end of the inlet nozzle 564 transversely, in particular at least approximately perpendicularly, to the extension directions 424, 444 of the wall section 428 in which the inlet opening 514 is formed, and/or in particular at least substantially parallel to the height direction 476.

In particular, the outlet 516 comprises an outlet nozzle 568. The outlet nozzle 568 comprises a flow space for the liquid, wherein the flow space leads to the outlet opening 518 and is circumferentially surrounded by a nozzle wall of the outlet nozzle 568. The outlet nozzle 568, in particular its flow space and/or its nozzle wall, advantageously extends from the outlet opening 518 to one end of the outlet nozzle 568 transversely, in particular at least approximately perpendicularly, to the extension directions 442, 444 of the wall section 428 in which the outlet opening 518 is formed, and/or substantially parallel to the height direction 476.

Advantageously, the cartridge 410 is arranged in the housing interior 214 of the device housing 212 such that the height direction 476 of the container 422 runs at least substantially parallel to the main direction 226.

Conveniently, the wall portion 428 in which the inlet opening 514 is formed faces the water tank region 354. In particular, the inlet nozzle 564 extends toward the water tank region 354.

Advantageously, the wall section 428 in which the outlet opening 518 is formed faces forwards with respect to the main direction 226 and, for example, faces the hot fluid generating unit 378 and/or the pump 382. In particular, the outlet nozzle 568 extends forwards in the main direction 226, for example in the direction of the hot fluid generating unit 378 and/or in the direction of the pump 382.

In particular, the cartridge 410 can be arranged in a space-saving manner adjacent to the water tank region 354 and in particular between the water tank region 354 of the device housing 212 on the one hand and the hot fluid generation unit 378 and/or the pump 382 on the other hand, since the container 422 has its smallest extension in the height direction 476. Nevertheless, it is possible for the liquid flowing through the cartridge 410 to flow around as much fluid modification material 414 as possible, since the connection 526 between the inlet opening 514 and the Outlet opening 518 is designed to optimize its length.

Preferably, the cartridge 410 is arranged in the device housing 212 such that the inlet 512 with the inlet opening 514 is arranged above the outlet 516 with the outlet opening 518 with respect to the vertical direction 246 of the device housing 212.

The inlet 512 is advantageously arranged in an uppermost region of the container 422 and in particular in an uppermost region of the cartridge 410 relative to the vertical direction 246 of the device housing 212. The outlet 516 is advantageously arranged in a lowermost region of the container 422 and in particular in a lowermost region of the cartridge 410 relative to the vertical direction 246 of the device housing 212.

In particular, the water tank 352 can be connected to the inlet 512 of the cartridge 410 in a fluid-conducting manner via at least one line section of the line device. The water tank 352, when it is attached to the device housing 212, is advantageously connected to the inlet 512 of the cartridge 410 in a fluid-conducting manner via the at least one line section.

The outlet 516 is advantageously fluid-conductingly connected to at least one line section of the line device and in particular fluid-conductingly connected via the line device to the hot fluid generation unit 378 and/or to the pump 382.

Since the inlet 512 is advantageously arranged above the outlet 516, the flow of the liquid through the cartridge 410 is at least not hindered by gravity in at least most orientations of the device 100 during use of the device 100 and is advantageously at least supported by gravity, since the inlet opening 514 is also arranged above the outlet opening 518 with respect to the direction of gravity. Advantageously, this arrangement of the inlet opening 514 above the outlet opening 518 is also present in at least most possible device configurations 105 of the device 100.

LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

100

Device

105

Device configuration

112

Device module

114

Handle module

116

Application module

118

Extension module

132

Mounting unit

136

Mounting bracket

138

Mounting counterpart

152

Detection device

156

sensor

162

Detection range

164

element to be detected

166

End of the mounting bracket

168

Receiving opening

212

Device housing

214

Housing interior

222

Front

224

back

226

Main direction

232

Arrangement point (for application unit)

236

Application unit

242

Top

244

bottom

246

Vertical direction

252

Stand area

256

transverse direction

262

Handle unit

264

Handle element

266

front longitudinal end

268

rear longitudinal end

272

Location (for handle unit)

276

Support element

278

Support element

284

Support element

286

Support surface

288

Investment element

292

Access opening

296

Grip region

298

Recess

312

Longitudinal median plane

314

vertical center plane

322

Arrangement section

326

Arrangement axis

332

outer wall segment

342

Interaction page

346

Control element

352

Water tank

354

Water tank region

356

Recess

358

Edge section

364

rear section

372

Power supply unit

374

Power supply opening

378

Hot fluid generation unit

382

pump

410

cartridge

414

Fluid modification material

422

container

424

Interior

428

Wall section

432

inner wall area

434

outer wall surface

438

Thickness direction

442

(Longitudinal) extension direction

444

(Transverse) extension direction

452

(Longitudinal) end area

454

(Transverse) end area

462

Edge area

466

Corner area

468

Expansion plane

472

Expansion direction

474

Expansion direction

476

Altitude direction

482

Container part

484

Container part

492

Form-locking element

494

Form-locking element

512

inlet

514

Inlet opening

516

Outlet

518

Outlet opening

526

Connection

528

Connecting line

534

Projection plane

536

Projection plane

542

Connecting room area

544

Connection direction

554

Sieve

558

Sieve

564

Inlet nozzle

568

Outlet nozzle

Claims (35)

Device (100), which is in particular a hand-held device and/or hot fluid device and/or cleaning device, comprising a device housing (212), wherein the device housing (212) defines a housing interior (214) and a hot fluid generation unit (378) of the device (100) and in particular device technology (100) of the device are arranged in the housing interior (214), and wherein a handle region (296) of the device (100) for a handle unit (262) is arranged above a water tank region (354) for a water tank (352) with respect to a vertical direction (246) of the device housing (212), and wherein an arrangement point (232, 272) for an application unit (236) is formed on a front side (222) of the device housing (212), and the front side (222) and a rear side (224) of the device housing (212) in a main direction (226) of the device housing (212) are opposite sides of the device housing (212) and the main direction (226) is at least approximately perpendicular to the vertical direction (246). Device (100) to Claim 1 characterized in that the handle unit (262) is a handle module (114) separate from the device housing (212) with at least one handle element (264) and that in particular the device housing (212) is a housing of a device module (112). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device housing (212) has a recess (298) for a separate handle unit (262) in the area of the handle region (296). Device (100) to Claim 1 , characterized in that the handle unit (262), in particular at least one handle element (264) of the handle unit (262), is formed from the device housing (212). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a handle element (264) of the handle unit (262) is connected at least one of two opposite longitudinal ends (266, 268) of the handle element (264) to at least one further Element of the handle unit (262), in particular in one piece. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one further element of the handle unit (262) is arranged, in particular in one piece, at each of two opposite longitudinal ends (266, 268) of the handle element (264), so that in particular the handle element (264) has no free longitudinal end. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims except the directly preceding claim, characterized in that one of two longitudinal ends (266, 268) of the handle unit (262) is a free end. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a support element (276, 278) for the handle unit (262) is arranged on the handle element (264), in particular for at least partially supporting the handle element (264) on at least a part of the device housing (212). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device housing (212) comprises at least one support element (288) for at least partially supporting the handle unit (262). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle unit (262) comprises a contact element (288) and the contact element (288) is designed and arranged to contact and/or to support the support element (284) of the device housing (212), wherein in particular the contact element (288) is arranged on the handle element (264) via at least one support element (276, 278). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support element (288) is formed at least partially on the handle unit (262), in particular on at least one support element (276, 278). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support element (284) delimits the grip region (296) in the vertical direction (246). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle region (296) extends at least approximately along half of a longitudinal extension of the device housing (212) in the main direction (226), in particular - that the handle region (296) extends at most along 70%, in particular at most 60%, of the entire longitudinal extension of the device housing (212) in the main direction (226), and/or - that the handle region (296) extends at least along 30%, in particular at least 40%, of the entire longitudinal extension of the device housing (212) in the main direction (226), and/or - that the handle region (296) extends at least approximately in a rear half of the device housing (212) with respect to the main direction (226). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device housing (212) forms an arrangement section (322) with at least one arrangement point (232, 272) for a handle unit (262) and/or an arrangement point (232, 272) for an application unit (236), in particular - that the arrangement section (322) is formed in an upper and front region of the device housing (212) with respect to the vertical direction (246) and the main direction (226) of the device housing (212), and/or - that at least one fastening unit (132) for a handle unit (262) and/or a fastening unit (132) for an application unit (236) is formed on the arrangement section (322), and/or - that at least a part of the handle unit (262) and/or at least a part of the application unit (236) is formed. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a support surface is formed on the arrangement section (322) for the handle unit (262). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement location (232, 272) for an application unit (236) is oriented obliquely downwards with respect to the main direction (226) and the vertical direction (246). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle unit (262) and the application unit (288) can be arranged at least along an arrangement axis (326) on the arrangement section (322), wherein in particular the arrangement axis (326) runs obliquely to the main direction (226) and/or obliquely to the vertical direction (246). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement axis (326) runs through the arrangement point (232, 272) for the handle unit (262) and the arrangement point (232, 272) for the application unit (288). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the arrangement section (322) an outer wall segment (332) of the device housing (212) runs obliquely to the main direction (226) and/or obliquely to the vertical direction (246), in particular - that the oblique wall segment (332) runs at least approximately parallel to the arrangement axis (322), and/or - that the oblique wall segment (322) runs obliquely from the front side (222) to an upper side (242) of the device housing (212) and in particular runs towards the handle region (296). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (100) comprises at least one display device with at least one display element, in particular for displaying at least one operating state of the device (100). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (100) comprises at least one operating device with at least one operating element (346) for operating the device (100). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (100) has at least one interaction page (342) on which at least one display element of the display device and/or at least one operating element (346) of the operating device is arranged. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the interaction side (342) is formed at least substantially on the arrangement section (322), in particular on the obliquely extending wall segment (332). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the water tank region (354) of the device housing (212) a recess (356) is formed for receiving a water tank (352), in particular a water tank that can be detachably attached. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a fastening mechanism for a releasable fastening of a water tank (352) to the device housing (212) is arranged in the water tank region (354). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the vertical direction (246) the handle region (296) and the water tank region (354) are spaced from each other. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that between the recess (298) in the handle region (296) and the recess (356) in the water tank region (354) a rear portion (364) of the device housing (212) extends to the rear side (224) of the device housing (212). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a power supply unit (172) of the device (100) is arranged at least partially between the handle region (296) and the water tank region (354) with respect to the vertical direction (246). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (100) comprises at least one cartridge (410) for a modification of a fluid and that in particular at least one cartridge (410) is arranged in the housing interior (214), wherein in particular a cartridge (410) is arranged adjacent to the water tank region (354). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a cartridge (410) of the device (100) comprises a container (422), in particular with an interior (424), and - in particular that the container (422) expands at least substantially in an expansion plane (468) and in a height direction (476) which runs at least approximately perpendicular to the expansion plane (468), wherein in particular the expansion plane (468) is spanned by two expansion directions (472, 474) which run at least approximately perpendicular to one another, wherein in particular an expansion of the container (422) in the height direction (476) is smaller than an expansion of the container (422) in at least one of the two expansion directions (472, 474), and/or - in particular that an inlet opening (514) of the container (422) and an outlet opening (518) of the container (422) are formed on opposite sides of the container (422) in the height direction (476), and/or - in particular, that a region of the interior (424) into which an inlet opening (514) of the container (422) opens, and a region of the interior (424) into which an outlet opening (518) of the container (422) opens, are located opposite each other in the interior (424) in at least one of the two extension directions (472, 474) and/or in the height direction (476). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a cartridge (410) of the device (100), which comprises a container (422), is designed for an at least approximately vertical orientation and/or is used in an at least approximately vertical orientation and/or is arranged in an at least approximately vertical orientation in the device (100), wherein in particular the container (422) has an interior (424) and an outlet opening (518) opening into the interior (424) and/or an inlet opening (514) opening into the interior (424), wherein in particular in the correct vertical orientation at least one of the following is provided - that the outlet opening (518) is arranged in a lower region of the interior (424) related to a vertical direction (246) of the device (100) and/or to the direction of gravity and/or that the inlet opening (514) is in a lower region of the interior (424) related to a vertical direction (246) of the device (100) and/or in the upper region of the interior (424) relative to the direction of gravity, and/or - that a height direction (476) of the container (422) is aligned at least approximately perpendicular to a vertical direction (246) of the device (100) and/or to the direction of gravity, and/or - that one of two extension directions (472, 474) of the container (422) is aligned at least approximately parallel to a vertical direction (246) of the device (100) and/or to the direction of gravity, and/or - that a wall surface (432, 434) of a wall section (428) of the container (422) in which the inlet opening (514) is formed, and/or a wall surface (432, 434) of a wall section (428) of the container (422) in which the outlet opening (518) is designed to run at least approximately parallel to a vertical direction (246) of the device (100) and/or to the direction of gravity. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hot fluid generation unit (378) is arranged in a lower region in the device housing (212) and/or in a front region in the device housing (212). Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hot fluid generation unit (378) comprises at least one continuous flow heater. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device housing (212) forms a standing surface (252) on its underside with respect to the vertical direction (246), wherein in particular the standing surface (252) runs at least approximately perpendicular to the vertical direction (246) and/or the standing surface (252) is an at least substantially flat surface. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device housing (212) comprises a plurality of shell parts, wherein in particular the shell parts form outer walls of the device housing (212), wherein in particular at least one shell part is a plastic part and/or an injection-molded part.

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