U.S. patent application number 10/340691 was filed with the patent office on 2004-07-15 for suction wet jet mop.
This patent application is currently assigned to Royal Appliance Manufacturing Company. Invention is credited to Farone, Richard C., Kalman, Jeffrey M., Kisela, David, Saunders, Craig M., Tufts, Lindsey JR., Waldron, Steven D., Wright, Michael F..
Application Number | 20040134016 10/340691 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32711375 |
Filed Date | 2004-07-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040134016 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kisela, David ; et
al. |
July 15, 2004 |
Suction wet jet mop
Abstract
A cleaning device (10, 300, 380, 390, 400, 500) includes a
handle assembly (14). A cleaning head (12, 312, 512) is pivotally
mounted to the handle assembly (14). The cleaning head selectively
holds a cleaning pad (70, 70') for collecting dust and debris from
a surface to be cleaned. A suction nozzle (18, 338, 408, 518) is
carried by the cleaning head. A dirt collecting receptacle (208,
336, 410) is mounted to the housing and is in fluid communication
with the suction nozzle and a suction fan and motor assembly (30).
At least one spray nozzle (22, 24, 332, 406, 560) is disposed on
one of the suction nozzle and the cleaning head. A liquid delivery
system (90) delivers a cleaning fluid to the at least one spray
nozzle. At least a portion of the liquid delivery system is mounted
on the handle assembly.
Inventors: |
Kisela, David; (Cuyahoga
Falls, OH) ; Farone, Richard C.; (Willoughby, OH)
; Waldron, Steven D.; (Courtland, OH) ; Wright,
Michael F.; (Stow, OH) ; Saunders, Craig M.;
(Rocky River, OH) ; Kalman, Jeffrey M.; (Cleveland
Heights, OH) ; Tufts, Lindsey JR.; (Euclid,
OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Jay F. Moldovanyi, Esq.
Fay, Sharpe, Fagan, Minnich & McKee, LLP
7th Floor
1100 Superior Avenue
Cleveland
OH
44114-2518
US
|
Assignee: |
Royal Appliance Manufacturing
Company
|
Family ID: |
32711375 |
Appl. No.: |
10/340691 |
Filed: |
January 10, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
15/320 ;
15/403 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 9/2836 20130101;
A47L 5/28 20130101; A47L 7/0042 20130101; A47L 5/24 20130101; A47L
9/2889 20130101; A47L 9/2857 20130101; A47L 13/22 20130101; A47L
13/42 20130101; A47L 7/0009 20130101; A47L 7/0038 20130101; A47L
9/2842 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
015/320 ;
015/403 |
International
Class: |
A47L 005/00; A47L
009/00; A47L 011/30 |
Claims
Having thus described the preferred embodiments, the invention is
now claimed to be:
1. A cleaning device comprising: a handle assembly; a cleaning head
pivotally attached to a first end of said handle assembly and
configured for receiving a replaceable cleaning pad for collecting
dirt from a floor surface to be cleaned; a spray nozzle mounted on
one of said cleaning head and said handle assembly for delivering a
cleaning fluid to a floor surface to be cleaned; a liquid delivery
system which delivers cleaning fluid to said spray nozzle, at least
a portion of said liquid delivery system being carried by said
handle assembly; a suction nozzle carried by said cleaning head; a
dirt collection assembly for collecting dirt and in fluid
communication with said suction nozzle, said dirt collection
assembly being carried by said handle assembly; and a source of
suction, carried by said handle assembly and fluidly connected with
said dirt collection assembly, for creating a flow of working air
which draws dirt from said suction nozzle into said dirt collection
assembly.
2. The cleaning device of claim 1, wherein said dirt collection
assembly includes a dirt cup which is removably mounted on said
handle assembly.
3. The cleaning device of claim 1, wherein the suction nozzle is
pivotably mounted to said cleaning head.
4. The cleaning device of claim 1, wherein the suction nozzle is
movable between a floor suctioning position, in which the suction
nozzle is positioned adjacent the floor surface to be cleaned and a
retracted position, in which the suction nozzle is positioned away
from the floor surface.
5. The cleaning device of claim 1, wherein the liquid delivery
system includes a fluid supply pump.
6. The cleaning device of claim 1, further including a switch which
is movable between a first position, for selectively actuating said
source of suction, and a second position.
7. The cleaning device of claim 6, wherein when said switch is in
said second position, the flow of working air is stopped and the
liquid delivery system is actuated.
8. The cleaning device of claim 6, wherein said switch is movable
to an intermediate position between said first and second
positions.
9. The cleaning device of claim 8, wherein said switch is biased to
said intermediate position.
10. The cleaning device of claim 1, further comprising: a multiple
axis joint which interconnects said cleaning head and said handle
assembly.
11. The cleaning device of claim 1, wherein said cleaning head has
a substantially flat lower surface.
12. The cleaning device of claim 11, wherein said cleaning pad is
selectively mounted to said lower surface.
13. The cleaning device of claim 11, wherein said spray nozzle is
attached to an upper surface of said cleaning head.
14. The cleaning device of claim 1, wherein said handle assembly
includes an elongate handle and a housing mounted to said handle,
said housing defining said first end of the handle assembly and
defining a socket for selectively receiving said dirt collection
assembly.
15. A cleaning device comprising: a housing; a suction fan and
motor assembly mounted to said housing; a cleaning head pivotally
mounted to said housing, said cleaning head selectively holding a
cleaning pad for collecting dust and debris from a surface to be
cleaned; a suction nozzle carried by said cleaning head; a dirt
collecting receptacle mounted to said housing and in fluid
communication with said suction nozzle and said suction fan and
motor assembly; at least one spray nozzle disposed on one of said
suction nozzle and said cleaning head; and a liquid delivery system
for delivering a cleaning fluid to said at least one spray nozzle,
wherein at least a portion of said liquid delivery system is
mounted on said housing.
16. The cleaning device of claim 15, further comprising a conduit
extending between said suction nozzle and said dirt collecting
receptacle.
17. The cleaning device of claim 16, wherein said conduit comprises
a flexible hose.
18. The cleaning device of claim 15, wherein said dirt collecting
receptacle comprises a dirt cup.
19. The cleaning device of claim 18, further comprising a latch for
selectively securing said dirt cup to said housing.
20. The cleaning device of claim 18, wherein said dirt cup
comprises an inlet and an outlet, wherein said inlet communicates
with an outlet of said suction nozzle and said dirt cup outlet
communicates with an inlet of said suction fan and motor
assembly.
21. The cleaning device of claim 18, further comprising a filter
detachably mounted to said dirt cup.
22. The cleaning device of claim 15, wherein said cleaning head is
substantially rectangular with a generally flat bottom surface.
23. The cleaning device of claim 15, wherein said cleaning head is
pivotably connected to said housing via a universal joint.
24. The cleaning device of claim 15, wherein said suction fan and
motor are powered by an alternating current via a power cord.
25. The cleaning device of claim 15, further comprising at least
one battery mounted to said housing for powering said suction fan
and motor.
26. The cleaning device of claim 15, wherein said cleaning head
comprises a bottom surface including at least one securing member
for securing said cleaning pad to said cleaning head.
27. The cleaning device of claim 15, wherein said cleaning head
includes a generally rectangular support plate, said support plate
being pivotally connected with said housing and carrying said spray
nozzle and said suction nozzle on an upper surface thereof.
28. The cleaning device of claim 15, wherein the suction nozzle is
movable between a suctioning position, in which said suction nozzle
is positioned adjacent to a surface to be cleaned, and a retracted
position, in which said suction nozzle is spaced away from said
surface.
29. The cleaning device of claim 28, further including a biasing
mechanism for biasing said suction nozzle to said retracted
position.
30. The cleaning device of claim 29, wherein said biasing mechanism
includes a spring.
31. The cleaning device of claim 28, further including a latch for
selectively restraining said suction nozzle in the suctioning
position.
32. The cleaning device of claim 15, further comprising a handle
mounted to said housing.
33. The cleaning device of claim 32, further comprising a switch
located on said handle for controlling an actuation of at least one
of said suction fan and motor assembly and said fluid distribution
system.
34. The cleaning device of claim 33, wherein said switch has a
first position in which said suction fan and motor assembly is
actuated and said fluid delivery system is disabled and a second
position in which said fluid delivery system is actuated and said
suction fan and motor assembly is disabled.
35. A cleaning device comprising: a cleaning head selectively
holding a cleaning pad; a handle for directing said cleaning head
along a surface to be cleaned; a housing mounted to at least one of
said handle and said cleaning head; a suction fan and motor
assembly mounted to said housing; a dirt collecting receptacle
mounted to said housing; a suction nozzle fluidly connected with
said dirt collecting receptacle; and a liquid delivery system
mounted to at least one of said housing and said suction nozzle for
delivering a cleaning solution to the surface to be cleaned.
36. The cleaning device of claim 35, wherein said dirt collecting
receptacle comprises a dirt cup.
37. The cleaning device of claim 35, wherein said housing is
selectively secured to said handle via at least one clip.
38. The cleaning device of claim 35, wherein said cleaning head is
pivotally connected to said handle via a universal joint.
39. The cleaning device of claim 35, further comprising a switch
for alternatively actuating said suction fan and motor assembly and
said liquid delivery system.
40. The cleaning device of claim 35, wherein said suction nozzle is
removably secured to said cleaning head via at least one clip.
41. A cleaning device comprising: a housing; a suction nozzle
communicating with said housing; a suction fan and motor assembly
mounted to said housing; a dirt collecting receptacle mounted to
said housing and in fluid communication with said suction nozzle
and said suction fan and motor assembly; a liquid delivery system
mounted to said housing for delivering a cleaning solution to a
surface to be cleaned; a handle mounted to said housing for
grasping to move said cleaning device along the surface to be
cleaned; a switch for actuating at least one of said suction fan
and motor assembly and said liquid delivery system; and a cleaning
head pivotally mounted to said housing, said cleaning head
selectively holding a cleaning pad for collecting dust and debris
from a surface to be cleaned.
42. The cleaning device of claim 41, wherein said switch is located
on said handle.
43. The cleaning device of claim 41, wherein said suction fan and
motor assembly are operated only while said switch is moved to a
first position.
44. The cleaning device of claim 43, wherein said liquid delivery
system is operated only while said switch is moved to a second
position.
45. The cleaning device of claim 44, wherein the fluid delivery
system includes a pump which is actuated by said switch in said
second position.
46. The cleaning device of claim 44, wherein said switch is biased
to a third, off, position between said first and second
positions.
47. A cleaning device having two separate and distinct modes of
operation, wherein a first mode of operation comprises suctioning
debris from a surface to be cleaned, and a second mode of operation
comprises application of a cleaning liquid to the surface, a
cleaning pad being used to collect dirty cleaning liquid and dust
and debris from the surface to be cleaned, said cleaning device
comprising: a housing; a suction fan and motor assembly mounted to
said housing; a dirt collecting receptacle mounted to said housing;
a suction nozzle fluidly connected with said suction fan and motor
assembly and said dirt collecting receptacle for performing said
first mode of operation; a liquid delivery system mounted at least
in part to said housing for delivering a cleaning liquid to the
surface during said second mode of operation; and, a cleaning head
pivotally mounted to said housing, said cleaning head selectively
holding said cleaning pad used during said second mode of
operation.
48. The cleaning device of claim 47, wherein said two modes of
operation are mutually exclusive.
49. A cleaning device having a liquid delivery system for cleaning
a surface, comprising: an elongate handle assembly having first and
second ends; a cleaning head pivotally mounted to said first end of
said handle assembly; a cleaning pad mounted to said cleaning head
for collecting dirty cleaning liquid and dust and debris from a
surface to be cleaned; a spray nozzle for spraying liquid from said
liquid delivery system in a first cleaning mode, said spray nozzle
being mounted to said cleaning head; a suction nozzle carried by
one of said cleaning head and said elongate handle assembly and
pivotable between a first position, in which the nozzle is located
adjacent the surface to be cleaned in a second cleaning mode, and a
second position, in which the nozzle is spaced away from the
surface to be cleaned.
50. The cleaning device of claim 49, wherein said cleaning head is
pivotally mounted to said first end by a universal joint such that
said cleaning head is pivotable relative to said housing about
first and second axis.
51. The cleaning device of claim 49, further including a latch
which engages the suction nozzle in at least one of said first and
second positions.
52. The cleaning device of claim 51, further including a foot
operated switch for releasing said latch from engagement.
53. A method of cleaning a surface with a device comprising a
handle assembly and a cleaning head pivotally attached to said
handle assembly, the method comprising: suctioning dirt from the
surface through a suction nozzle attached to one of said cleaning
head and said handle assembly; moving said suction nozzle in
relation to said cleaning head to a position spaced away from the
surface; while the suction nozzle is spaced away from the surface,
applying a liquid to the surface from a liquid delivery system at
least partially mounted on said handle assembly; and directing the
cleaning head over the surface with the handle assembly such that
liquid from the surface is transferred to the cleaning head.
54. The method of claim 53, wherein the suctioning and liquid
applying steps are controlled by a switch, the suctioning step
including the subsidiary step of moving the switch to a first
position which causes suction to be applied to the suction nozzle
and prevents the liquid delivery system from applying liquid to the
surface, and the liquid applying step including the subsidiary step
of moving the switch to a second position in which the suction is
not applied to the suction nozzle and causes the liquid delivery
system to apply liquid to the surface.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to floor care devices. More
particularly, the present invention relates to a combined floor mop
and vacuum suction device.
[0003] 2. Discussion of the Art
[0004] A wide variety of products exist which are capable of
cleaning hard surfaces, such as ceramic tile floors, hardwood
floors, and the like. Many of these products comprise a directing
handle and a sponge for absorbing a fluid cleaning composition. The
sponge is rinsed periodically to remove dirt, soil, and other
residues.
[0005] Non-woven sheets have been used for dry dust-type cleaning,
as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,629,047 and
5,144,729. The sheets are designed to attract particulate dirt
electrostatically and minimize the amount of residue left on the
surface being wiped. However, such tools are designed for light
floor cleaning and are unsuited to handle large particles of dirt,
such as pebbles, crumbs, and the like.
[0006] Recently, cleaning tools have been developed with disposable
cleaning pads for removal of dirt from damp surfaces. For example,
U.S. Pat. No. 5,094,559 describes a mop that includes a disposable
cleaning pad comprising a scrubber layer for removing soil from a
soiled surface, a blotter layer for absorbing fluid after the
cleaning process, and a liquid impervious layer positioned between
the scrubber and blotter layers. During the cleaning action with
the scrubber layer, the impervious sheet prevents fluid from moving
to the absorbent blotter layer. After the cleaning action is
completed, the pad is removed from the mop handle and reattached
such that the blotter layer contacts the floor. This operation is
time consuming for the user and involves the handling of a soiled,
wet pad.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,419,015 describes a mop having removable,
washable work pads. Each pad has an upper layer, which is capable
of attaching to hooks on a mop head, a central layer of synthetic
plastic microporous foam, and a lower layer for contacting a
surface during the cleaning operation.
[0008] There remains a need for a device that is capable of
removing quantities of dry dirt from a floor surface and also of
performing wet cleaning of the surface.
[0009] The present invention provides a new and improved floor
cleaning device and method of use, which overcome the
above-referenced problems and others.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a
cleaning device is provided. The device includes a handle assembly.
A cleaning head is pivotally attached to a first end of the handle
assembly and is configured for receiving a replaceable cleaning pad
for collecting dirt from a floor surface to be cleaned. A spray
nozzle is mounted to the cleaning head and/or handle assembly for
delivering a cleaning fluid to a floor surface to be cleaned. A
liquid delivery system delivers cleaning fluid to the spray nozzle.
At least a portion of the liquid delivery system is carried by the
handle assembly. A suction nozzle is carried by the cleaning head.
A dirt collection assembly for collecting dirt is in fluid
communication with the suction nozzle. The dirt collection assembly
is carried by the handle assembly. A source of suction is carried
by the handle assembly and is fluidly connected with the dirt
collection assembly for creating a flow of working air which draws
dirt from the suction nozzle into the dirt collection assembly.
[0011] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a cleaning device is provided. The device includes a housing. A
suction fan and motor assembly is mounted to the housing. A
cleaning head is pivotally mounted to the housing. The cleaning
head selectively holds a cleaning pad for collecting dust and
debris from a surface to be cleaned. A suction nozzle is carried by
the cleaning head. A dirt collecting receptacle is mounted to the
housing and is in fluid communication with the suction nozzle and
the suction fan and motor assembly. At least one spray nozzle is
disposed on one of the suction nozzle and the cleaning head. A
liquid delivery system delivers a cleaning fluid to the at least
one spray nozzle. At least a portion of the liquid delivery system
is mounted on the housing.
[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a cleaning device is provided. The device includes a cleaning head
which selectively holds a cleaning pad. A handle directs the
cleaning head along a surface to be cleaned. A housing is mounted
to at least one of the handle and the cleaning head. A suction fan
and motor assembly is mounted to the housing. A dirt collecting
receptacle is mounted to the housing. A suction nozzle is fluidly
connected with the dirt collecting receptacle. A liquid delivery
system is mounted to at least one of the housing and the suction
nozzle for delivering a cleaning solution to the surface to be
cleaned.
[0013] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a cleaning device is provided. The device includes a housing and a
suction nozzle communicating with the housing. A suction fan and
motor assembly is mounted to the housing. A dirt collecting
receptacle is mounted to the housing and is in fluid communication
with the suction nozzle and the suction fan and motor assembly. A
liquid delivery system is mounted to the housing for delivering a
cleaning solution to a surface to be cleaned. A handle is mounted
to the housing for grasping to move the cleaning device along the
surface to be cleaned. A switch actuates at least one of the
suction fan/motor assembly and the liquid delivery system. A
cleaning head is pivotally mounted to the housing. The cleaning
head selectively holds a cleaning pad for collecting dust and
debris from a surface to be cleaned.
[0014] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a cleaning device is provided. The device has two separate and
distinct modes of operation. A first mode of operation comprises
suctioning debris from a surface to be cleaned and a second mode of
operation comprises the application of a cleaning liquid to the
surface. A cleaning pad is used to collect dirty cleaning liquid
and dust and debris from a surface to be cleaned. The cleaning
device includes a housing and a suction fan and motor assembly
mounted to the housing. A dirt collecting receptacle is mounted to
the housing. A suction nozzle is fluidly connected with the suction
fan and motor assembly and the dirt collection receptacle for
performing the first mode of operation. A liquid delivery system is
mounted at least in part to the housing for delivering a cleaning
liquid to the surface during the second mode of operation. A
cleaning head is pivotally mounted to the housing and selectively
holds the cleaning pad used during the second mode of
operation.
[0015] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a cleaning device is provided. The device has a liquid delivery
system for cleaning a surface. An elongate handle assembly has
first and second ends. A cleaning head is pivotally mounted to the
first end of the handle assembly. A cleaning pad, mounted to the
cleaning head, collects dirty cleaning liquid and dust and debris
from a surface to be cleaned. A spray nozzle sprays liquid from the
liquid delivery system in a first cleaning mode. The spray nozzle
is attached to the cleaning head. A suction nozzle is carried by
the cleaning head member and is pivotable between a first position,
in which the nozzle is located adjacent the surface to be cleaned
in a second cleaning mode, and a second position, in which the
nozzle is spaced away from the surface.
[0016] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method of cleaning a surface with a device comprising a handle
assembly and a cleaning head pivotally attached to the handle
assembly is provided. The method includes suctioning dirt from the
surface through a suction nozzle movably attached to the cleaning
head. The suction nozzle is moved to a position away from the
surface. While the suction nozzle is positioned away from the
surface, a liquid is applied to the surface from a liquid delivery
system at least partially mounted on the handle assembly. The
cleaning head is directed over the surface using the handle
assembly such that liquid from the surface is transferred to the
cleaning head.
[0017] The advantages of the present invention will be readily
apparent to those skilled in the art, upon a reading of the
following disclosure and a review of the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The invention is described in conjunction with accompanying
drawings. The drawings are for purposes of illustrating exemplary
embodiments of the invention and are not to be construed as
limiting the invention to such embodiments. It is understood that
the invention may take form in various components and arrangement
of components and in various steps and arrangement of steps beyond
those provided in the drawings and associated description.
[0019] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a
floor cleaning device according to the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a lower portion of
the floor cleaning device of FIG. 1, showing one embodiment of a
suction nozzle in a lowered (floor cleaning) position;
[0021] FIG. 3 is an enlarged front perspective view of a lower end
of the cleaning device of FIG. 1, showing the suction nozzle in a
raised position;
[0022] FIG. 4 is a schematic side elevational view, in partial
section, of the floor cleaning device of FIG. 1;
[0023] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a cleaning head
and universal joint of the floor cleaning device of FIG. 1, with
the suction nozzle and suction hose removed for clarity;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view of a floor cleaning pad
attached to a lower surface of the cleaning head of FIG. 5, with
one corner of the pad peeled back to reveal its multi-layer
construction;
[0025] FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of a housing of the
floor cleaning device of FIG. 1 with a dirt cup and fluid reservoir
attached;
[0026] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a fluid distribution system of
the floor cleaning device of FIG. 1;
[0027] FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view, partially cut away,
of a handle assembly of the floor cleaning device of FIG. 1;
[0028] FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of the suction
nozzle of FIG. 1;
[0029] FIG. 11 is a greatly enlarged side sectional view of a foot
release pedal and latch of the floor cleaning device of FIG. 1,
with the latch in a suction nozzle engaging position;
[0030] FIG. 12 is a greatly enlarged side sectional view of the
foot release pedal and latch of the floor cleaning device of FIG.
11, with the latch in a disengaged position;
[0031] FIG. 13 is an exploded side elevational view of the housing
of FIG. 7 with the dirt cup removed;
[0032] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the dirt cup and
filter of FIG. 13;
[0033] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a
floor cleaning device according to the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 15A is an enlarged perspective view of the clip of FIG.
15 with the suction nozzle attached;
[0035] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a
floor cleaning device according to the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a
floor cleaning device according to the present invention; and
[0037] FIG. 17A is an enlarged view of the battery pack of FIG.
17;
[0038] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a
cleaning device according to the present invention;
[0039] FIG. 19 is a side elevational view of the cleaning device of
FIG. 18, showing a cleaning head and pad attached;
[0040] FIG. 20 is an enlarged exploded view of a suction nozzle of
a cleaning device according to a sixth embodiment of the present
invention; and
[0041] FIG. 21 is a side view of the cleaning device of FIG. 20,
with the spray nozzles removed for clarity.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0042] Referring now to the FIGURES, wherein the showings are for
purposes of illustrating several preferred embodiments of the
invention only and not for purposes of limiting the same, FIG. 1
illustrates a floor cleaning device 10 suited to the cleaning of
vinyl, ceramic, and finished wood floors, and other hard surfaces.
The floor cleaning device 10 incorporates both mopping and suction
functions, allowing an operator to change rapidly from dirt
suctioning to mopping.
[0043] The cleaning device 10 includes a cleaning head 12 for
contacting a floor surface F (FIG. 4), and an elongate handle
assembly 14, which is pivotally attached to the cleaning head by a
universal joint 16, best shown in FIG. 2. During floor cleaning,
the handle assembly 14 is positioned at an acute angle to the
direction of travel of the cleaning head 12, for directing the
cleaning head across a floor surface to be cleaned.
[0044] With reference now to FIG. 2, a suction nozzle 18 extends
forward of a leading edge 20 of the cleaning head 12 and is movable
between a floor suctioning position, illustrated in FIG. 2, and a
raised position, illustrated in FIG. 3. One or more spray nozzles
22, 24 (two in the illustrated embodiment) are attached to the
cleaning head 12 for delivering a spray of a cleaning fluid to the
floor surface. The spray nozzles 22, 24 preferably produce a fine
spray which contacts the floor forward of the cleaning head 12. The
cleaning head 12 picks up at least a portion of the sprayed
cleaning fluid, together with dirt loosened from the floor surface.
The spray created by the nozzles 22, 24 may be a fluidic
oscillating spray, a fan angled spray, or a uniform distribution
spray, as desired.
[0045] The cleaning fluid can be a liquid, such as water or a
suitable conventional cleaning solution. Suitable cleaning liquids
include those marketed by Procter and Gamble and by Clorox for use
with their Swiffer.TM. Wet Jet and ReadyMop.TM. floor cleaning
devices. For example, the cleaning fluid can include a detergent in
water for improving the removal of dirt from the floor. The
cleaning liquid may include other additives, such as antimicrobial
agents, bleaches, and the like. For cleaning wood floors, the
cleaning fluid can be formulated to minimize damage to the floor
and may include a wax or other wood floor coating ingredients.
[0046] With reference now to FIG. 4, mounted on the handle assembly
14 is a housing 29 which accommodates a fan and motor assembly 30,
a dirt collection assembly 32, a power source 34, such as one or
more replaceable/rechargeable batteries, a cleaning fluid supply
reservoir 36, and a cleaning fluid delivery pump 38, which will be
described in greater detail below.
[0047] With reference to FIG. 5, the universal joint 16 permits
rotation of the cleaning head 12 relative to the handle assembly 14
about two rotational axes, as indicated by arrows R.sub.1 and
R.sub.2. The rotational axes are angularly spaced, preferably by
about 90.degree.. The universal joint 16 includes a first
rotational joint or clevis 39 comprising first and second spaced
and generally parallel arms 40, 42, which extend from one side of a
central portion 44. The arms 40, 42 include aligned apertures 46,48
for receiving a respective pivot pin 50 extending therethrough. The
pins extend into aligned apertures 51,53 positioned in spaced
flanges 52, 54 protruding from the cleaning head 12. In other
words, the clevis 39 is rotatably mounted on the cleaning head 12.
The handle assembly 14 is thus able to pivot forward or rearward,
relative to the cleaning head 12, as shown by arrow R.sub.1 in FIG.
5.
[0048] The universal joint 16 includes a second clevis or
rotational joint 55, oriented perpendicular to the first clevis 39.
The second clevis 55 includes first and second spaced and generally
parallel arms 56, 58, similar to arms 40, 42, which extend from an
opposite side of the central portion 44 to the arms 40,42. The arms
56, 58 are pivotally connected to flanges 60, 62 (see FIG. 13) at a
lower end 64 of the housing 29 by pivot pins 66. This allows the
handle assembly 14 to pivot relative to the universal joint 16 as
shown by arrow R.sub.2 (FIG. 5). The second rotational joint 55
thus has a rotational axis perpendicular to the axis of the first
rotational joint 39. It will be appreciated that other conventional
methods of attachment of the handle assembly 14 to the cleaning
head 12 are also contemplated. The central portion 44 includes a
large aperture 68 for accommodating a hose, as will be discussed
below.
[0049] With reference now to FIG. 6, the cleaning device 10
includes a cleaning fabric pad 70, which is removably attached to a
substantially flat lower surface 72 of the cleaning head 12. The
lower surface 72 can be defined by a rectangular plastic or foam
plate 73. The cleaning pad 70 may be formed from multiple layers or
be a single sheet of material. In one embodiment, the pad has a
multilayer construction including an upper layer 70A, which is
capable of attaching to a strip of conventional hook material 73A
secured to the plate 73, a central layer 70B of an absorbent
material, such as a synthetic plastic microporous foam, and a lower
layer 70C for contacting a surface meant to be cleaned during the
cleaning operation. The pad upper layer 70A, which includes a loop
material, and the hook material 73A cooperate to form a hook and
loop fastening system of the well known Velcro.TM. type. The hook
material 73A can be adhesively attached or molded onto the surface
72, although other attachment methods are contemplated. Thus, the
bottom surface 72 of the cleaning head 12 engages at least a
portion of the cleaning pad 70 during use.
[0050] The lower layer 70C is preferably formed from a fabric which
is sufficiently durable such that the layer will retain its
integrity during the cleaning process. It is permeable to water and
other liquids, which pass through the lower layer into the
absorbent layer 70B, where they are trapped. The pad is preferably
disposable, although reusable pads, which can be cleaned by
washing, are also contemplated. It is also contemplated that
different types of pad may be used depending on the type of
cleaning to be performed. For example, if the user plans to do only
dry cleaning at a particular time, a pad 70 comprising an
electrostatic layer suited to picking up dry dirt may be employed.
Such pads are particularly suitable for removal and entrapment of
dust, lint, hair, grass, and the like. Pads particularly suited to
polishing and/or buffing wood floors may be selected for wood floor
cleaning operations.
[0051] With reference once more to FIG. 2, the spray nozzles 22, 24
are preferably attached to an upper surface 74 of the cleaning head
12, adjacent the leading edge 20. The upper surface is defined by a
support plate 76, formed from metal or plastic, which is attached
at a lower surface thereof to the plate 73. In this way, the spray
nozzles 22, 24 move in the direction of the cleaning head 12 when
the cleaning device is maneuvered. For floor mopping operations,
the cleaning device 10 can be maneuvered, for example, forwards and
backwards or side to side by moving the handle assembly 14 as
required. As a result, the movement of the handle will be
translated, via the universal joint 16, to the cleaning head
12.
[0052] Alternatively, the spray nozzles 22, 24 may be mounted
elsewhere on the cleaning head 12, such as on the suction nozzle
18, or mounted to the universal joint 16 or handle assembly 14.
[0053] With reference once more to FIG. 4, the housing 29 includes
a front socket 80, which receives the dirt cup assembly 32. The
lower end 64 of the housing 29 is pivotally connected with the
universal joint, as described above. The housing 29 also defines a
rear socket 81 with an upper opening 82 for receiving the cleaning
fluid reservoir 36, which may be in the form of a replaceable
bottle. The handle assembly 14 also includes a hand grip 84, which
is connected with the housing 29 by a hollow rod 86.
[0054] As shown in FIG. 8, a liquid delivery system 90, which
includes the pump 38, delivers the cleaning liquid from the bottle
36 to the spray nozzles 22, 24. As the bottle 36 is inserted into
the housing, the bottle is automatically connected with the liquid
delivery system 90. One suitable connection mechanism for the
bottle is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,321,941, which is
incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. Specifically, a
closure or cap 92 of the bottle 36 is brought into engagement with
a bottle piercing assembly 94, which is movably mounted in the
socket 81. The bottle piercing assembly 94 includes piercing
needles 96, 98, which puncture a portion of the cap, such as an
elastomeric gasket 99. One of the needles 96 is connected with a
vent valve 100, which allows air to enter the bottle 36 as the
cleaning liquid is dispensed. That is, as cleaning fluid is pumped
from the bottle 36, ambient air is admitted through the vent valve
100 to replace the fluid so that the container 36 does not collapse
or generate a vacuum within the container 36. The other needle 98
is fluidly connected with the pump 38.
[0055] The reservoir 36 may be about a 25 cm tall by about 6 cm
diameter bottle blow molded from a high density polyethylene with a
closure injection molded of polypropylene. The gasket 99 may be
injection molded of silicone rubber.
[0056] The pump 38 can be a gear pump, peristaltic pump, or any
other known liquid pump. One suitable gear pump 38 is described in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,328,543, which is incorporated herein in its
entirety by reference. A check valve 114 is positioned in a fluid
supply conduit 116, such as a flexible tube, downstream of the pump
38. A drive motor 118 for the pump 38 is powered by the power
source 34. For example, a low-voltage DC motor 118 is readily
powered by the batteries 34. Although batteries 34 represent one
means for powering and operating the pump 38, other alternatives
may be used. For example, an electric power cord (not shown) can be
selectively connected to a source of AC power for supplying
electrical power to the pump 38, fan motor 30, and any other
electrically operated components of the device, or, the pump may be
manually operated.
[0057] The check valve 114 may be a spring loaded ball valve or
other type of check valve commonly known in the art. The check
valve 114 limits dribbling of fluid from the spray nozzles 22, 24,
particularly when the suction nozzle 18 is in operation. The check
valve 114 generates a cracking pressure so that fluid entering into
the spray nozzles 22, 24 has sufficient energy to drive the fluid
through the spray nozzles 22, 24 and break the fluid up into fine
droplets in preferably a fan-shaped pattern.
[0058] Although gear pumps are able to lift fluid from a container
below them, gear pump precision and power determines the suction
head available. In order to minimize precision and power, and
therefore size and cost, the reservoir 36 can be located directly
above the gear pump 38 so that a static head is always present to
prime the pump, and no suction is required. Because of the
continuous static head from the reservoir 36, the check valve 114
preferably has a cracking pressure greater than the static head, so
that no leakage occurs through an inactive pump. The cracking
pressure is preferably higher than the static head to the extent
that fluid passing through the check valve 114 when the pump
operates has sufficient pressure to cause the spray nozzles 22, 24
to produce a fine spray.
[0059] Cleaning liquid passes from the pump 38 via a fluid supply
conduit 116 to the spray nozzles 22, 24. Optionally, a filter
assembly, 132, in the supply conduit 116, filters dirt and other
small particles from the cleaning liquid, such as small amounts of
cap gasket material dislodged during puncturing the cap.
Optionally, a shut off valve 134 in the supply conduit 116 is
selectively closable to prevent the flow of liquid to the spray
nozzles 22, 24. Specifically, the valve 134 can include a housing
136, which receives a movable valve stem 138. The valve stem is
biased to an open position (fluid flow) by a spring 140, within the
housing 136. When pressure is applied to the valve stem 138, the
fluid flow is shut off. Optionally, the pump 38 runs continuously
in both mopping and suction modes and the valve 134 is used to
close off the flow. Alternatively or additionally, the pump 38 can
be switched off during the suction mode.
[0060] As shown in FIG. 8, a T-connector 142, downstream of the
pump 38 and valve 134, splits the fluid conduit 116 into two
flowpaths 144, 146, one for each of the nozzles 22, 24. The fluid
delivery system 90 thus described includes conduit 116, flowpaths
144, 146, pump 38, check valve 114, filter 132, and shut off valve
138. It will be readily appreciated, however, that alternative
fluid delivery systems, such as those employing gravity feed,
pressure on the bottle by squeezing with the user's hand, or other
means of supplying the fluid to the nozzles 22, 24, are also
contemplated.
[0061] A manually operable actuation system 150, best shown in FIG.
9, operates both the fan and motor assembly 30 and the valve 134
and/or pump 38. The actuation system 150 includes a thumb or
finger-operated switch 152, which can be mounted to the hand grip
84. The switch 152 is operable to convert the device 10 from the
spray/mopping mode to the vacuum suction mode. Specifically, when
the switch 152 is moved to a first position S.sub.1 (pushing the
switch forward in the illustrated embodiment), a plunger or
actuation rod 154, which is carried within the hollow rod 86, is
pushed in a generally downward direction, illustrated by arrow A,
away from the hand grip 84. The plunger 154 carries an actuating
member 156, such as a protrusion, which actuates a first
microswitch 158 only when the switch 152 is in the first position.
The actuation of the first microswitch 158 energizes the fluid
supply pump 38 and/or the valve stem 138 of the shut off valve 134
to move to the open position, thereby permitting the supply of
liquid from the bottle 36 to the spray nozzles 22, 24.
[0062] In the first switch position Si, the floor cleaning device
10 is thus operable in a floor spraying/mopping mode. In this mode,
the pump 38 withdraws cleaning solution from the reservoir 36 and
directs it to the supply nozzles 22, 24, via the fluid supply
conduit 116 and flowpaths 144, 146. A user maneuvers the cleaning
head 12 over the floor, using the handle assembly 14. The sprayed
cleaning fluid and dirt from the floor are collected on the
replaceable pad 70 as the cleaning head passes across the
floor.
[0063] When the switch 152 is moved to a second position S.sub.2
(in the illustrated embodiment by pulling it rearward), the plunger
154 is pulled upwardly in the direction of Arrow B until the
actuating member 156 actuates a second microswitch 160. The second
microswitch 160 is mounted, either in the rod 86 or in the housing
29, in spaced relation to the first microswitch 158. Only while the
switch 152 is in the second position S.sub.2 is the second
microswitch 160 actuated, which causes the fan motor assembly 30 to
operate, creating a suction force on the suction nozzle 18.
Additionally, when the plunger 154 is retracted, by pulling upward,
the protrusion 156 is released from engagement with the first
microswitch 158, closing the shut off valve 134 and/or switching
off the pump 38, and thereby closing off and/or switching off fluid
flow to the spray nozzles 22, 24.
[0064] In the second switch position S.sub.2, the floor cleaning
device 10 is operable in a suction mode. The user maneuvers the
cleaning head 12 over the floor surface using the handle assembly
14. The suction fan motor assembly 30 creates a flow of working air
at a suction inlet 162 (FIG. 4) of the suction nozzle 18. Dirt and
dust from the floor enter the suction nozzle inlet 162 and are
carried along a working air flowpath 164, defined in part by the
suction nozzle 18, and into the dirt collection assembly 32, along
with the working air. If both suction and mopping operations are to
be carried out, the suction operation can be performed first and
then the device 10 can be converted to the spray/mopping mode by
changing the switch position.
[0065] The use of a single switch 152 in this manner prevents
accidental operation of the spray nozzles 22, 24 while suction is
applied to the suction nozzle 18, thereby avoiding introduction of
the sprayed liquid directly into the dirt collection assembly 32 or
suction fan assembly 30. It is believed that whenever liquid is
being sprayed on the floor surface (i.e., when the pump 38 is
energized), the suction should be automatically shut off, and
whenever the suction is operating (i.e., when the fan motor is
energized), the liquid supply should be automatically shut off It
will be appreciated, however, that a conventional air/liquid
separator or valve (not shown) may alternatively be employed in the
dirt collection assembly, thereby avoiding the need to shut of the
suction when the spray nozzles are operating.
[0066] The switch 152 may also have a central neutral position
S.sub.3, in which neither the suction fan 30 nor the liquid
delivery system 90 is operating. This position may be used, for
example, during a floor mopping operation where the use of
additional liquid is not desired, such as when cleaning a wood
floor or an already wet floor, or when a cleaning cloth 70 is used
which is already impregnated with a cleaning or polishing fluid.
The forward and rear switch positions may include means for
retaining the switch in the set position until actively disengaged,
such as a rocker switch or a switch which engages detents.
Alternatively, the switch 152 may be a slide switch which is
spring-biased to the neutral position S.sub.3 when the finger
pressure is withdrawn. Other embodiments are also contemplated,
such as a switch which is spring biased to one of the first and
second positions S.sub.1, S.sub.2.
[0067] It will be appreciated that the positions of the two
microswitches 158, 160 may be reversed, such that the fan motor
assembly 30 is operated by pushing on the switch 152 and the liquid
spray is operated by pulling on the switch. Additionally, while the
switch 152 is most conveniently positioned on or adjacent the hand
grip 84, it is also contemplated that the switch 152 may be
positioned elsewhere on the device 10. For example, a foot operated
rocker switch may be provided on the cleaning head, or the switch
may be located on the housing.
[0068] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the suction nozzle 18 is spring
biased to the retracted (raised) position. For example, as shown in
FIGS. 2 and 3, the suction nozzle 18 includes a nozzle housing 172,
which is generally triangular in shape, and defines the suction
inlet 162, in the form of an elongate slot at its distal end. A
tubular portion 174 of the suction nozzle 18 extends from a narrow
end of the nozzle housing 172. The suction nozzle 18 is pivotally
mounted on the cleaning head 12. The suction nozzle 18 is connected
with the dust collection assembly 32 by a flexible suction hose 176
(FIG. 7). In one embodiment (FIG. 1), the hose 176 is directly
connected to the tubular portion 174 of the suction nozzle and
bends as the suction nozzle 18 pivots. In another embodiment,
illustrated in FIG. 2, a rigid tubular member 177 is connected with
the end of the hose 176. The rigid member 177 is pivotally
connected to the tubular portion 174. In either embodiment, the
tubular portion 174 of the suction nozzle 18 pivots relative to the
cleaning head 12 around a pivot axis 178. As best shown in FIG. 10,
a torsion spring 180 is mounted between the suction nozzle 18 and
the cleaning head 12. It biases the suction nozzle 18 to the
retracted position. This ensures that cleaning fluid from the spray
nozzles 22, 24 is not sucked directly into the suction nozzle 18
just after it is sprayed out through the nozzles 22 and 24 in the
wet floor cleaning mode.
[0069] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the suction nozzle 18 can be
held against upward movement by a latch 190 or other suitable
restraining member. In one embodiment, the latch 190 is generally
triangular in cross section. The latch 190 can be pivotable, as
indicated by arrow R.sub.3, around a pivot point 192 between an
engagement position (FIG. 11), in which a distal end of the latch
engages the suction nozzle 18 and a disengaged position (FIG. 12),
in which the suction nozzle is free to move upwardly, under the
bias of the torsion spring. The latch 190 can be normally
restrained in the engaged position by a foot operated release
member 194, which includes a foot operated switch 195, conveniently
positioned on the cleaning head 12 (FIG. 2). A restraint bar 196
depends from the switch 195 of the release member 194 and defines a
V-shaped indent 198, which is configured to accommodate the latch
190 when pivoted to the disengaged position.
[0070] A restraining surface 200 of the restraint bar, located
beneath the indent 198, can prevent the latch 190 from moving to
the disengaged position until the foot operated release member 194
is depressed, e.g., by pressing on the switch 195 with the user's
foot. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, the restraining surface
200 can engage a rear surface 202 of the latch, such that a tip of
the latch is over the nozzle housing 172, inhibiting it from moving
upward. When the release member 194 is depressed, the latch 190 is
able to pivot to the disengaged position, shown in FIG. 12.
Specifically, the upward pressure of the nozzle housing 172, under
the biasing force of the torsion spring 180, causes the latch 190
to move to the disengaged position. The suction nozzle is then free
to pivot upward, away from the floor. When the foot pressure on the
pedal 195 is released, the foot operated release member 194 is
biased upward by a coil spring 206. As the release member 194 moves
upward, the surface 200 engages the latch 190, pivoting it forward
into the engaged position.
[0071] To reengage the suction nozzle 18 with the latch 190, the
user pushes the suction nozzle downward with either the foot or
hand and reengages the latch.
[0072] In an alternate embodiment, a lower end of the plunger 154
is operatively connected with the suction nozzle 18, such that the
suction nozzle 18 is moved from the floor suctioning position (FIG.
2) to the retracted position (FIG. 3) when the switch is moved to
the second position S.sub.3.
[0073] With reference now to FIG. 13, the dirt collection assembly
32 includes a dirt collection receptacle 208, such as a removable,
generally transparent dirt cup, fabricated from a thermoplastic
material, or other suitable material. As best shown in FIG. 4, when
the dirt cup 208 is positioned within the socket 80 in the housing
29, the suction nozzle 18 is fluidly connected with an inlet 212 of
the dirt cup 208 by the flexible suction hose 176. The suction hose
176 passes through aperture 68 in the universal joint 16 and enters
the housing 29 through a suitably positioned lower opening 214
located between the two flanges 60, 62.
[0074] As shown in FIG. 14, an open end 216 of the dirt cup 208
selectively accommodates a removable filter assembly 218, which
filters dirt and debris from the working air before it leaves the
dirt cup. The filter assembly 218 can include a flexible filter 220
to retain smaller particles within the dirt cup 208. The filter 220
is supported on a filter cage 222, and is removable with the cage
from the dirt cup for cleaning. The dirt cup 208 is removed from
the socket 80 in the housing and emptied of collected dirt at
intervals. This entails removing the filter assembly 218 from the
dirt cup and tipping out collected dirt. The filter assembly 218
may also be cleaned at this time, or less frequently, for example,
by rinsing the filter 220 in warm water or detergent solution.
[0075] As shown in FIG. 5, during operation of the suction system,
the dirt cup 208 is secured in place in the socket 80 by a latch
mechanism 230 or other suitable conventional fastening mechanism.
With reference now to FIG. 13, the latch mechanism 230 can release
a spring biased tab 232 from a slot 234 formed in the outlet end of
the dirt cup 208.
[0076] The fan and motor assembly 30 includes a motor 240 capable
of operating on a dc voltage of about 7.2-9.6 volts DC, provided by
the power source 34 (FIG. 4). The motor drives a fan 242 which
creates a suction force on the dirt cup 190, drawing air and dirt
from the floor suction nozzle 18 into the dirt cup. A flap valve
244 (FIG. 7) is positioned at the dirt cup inlet 212, which is
normally in a closed position. When the fan motor operates, the
suction force opens the flap valve 244, allowing dirt and air to be
drawn into the dirt cup. The flap valve 244 may be formed from
rubber or other suitable flexible material. When the fan motor is
switched off, the flap valve falls back to its closed position,
sealing off the suction nozzle 18 from the dirt cup 208 and
preventing collected dirt from falling out of the device through
the suction nozzle.
[0077] When the fan motor assembly 30 is operational, the working
air follows a short and efficient flow path. Dirt-laden air is
drawn in through the suction inlet 162 of the suction nozzle and is
carried upward along the short flexible hose 176 and exits out the
dirt cup inlet 212, which is slightly elevated, relative to the
base of the dirt cup 208. Heavier dirt particles fall to the base
of the dirt cup 190 under gravity. Lighter particles may be drawn
upward to the filter assembly 218, where they are trapped on the
filter 220. Working air is drawn through the filter 220 by fan 242,
flows around the motor 240, and is directed out of the housing by
the fan and motor assembly 30 through suitably positioned louvers
224 therein.
[0078] In place of the dirt cup 208 and filter assembly 218,
another suitable conventional dirt collection assembly may be
employed, such as a replaceable filter bag made from paper, cloth,
or other porous material, a cyclonic flow dust separation system,
or the like.
[0079] With reference now to FIG. 15, an alternative embodiment of
a cleaning device 300 is shown. The device 300 includes a cleaning
head 312, which is pivotally attached to a handle assembly 314 by a
universal joint 316 analogous to universal joint 16. In this
embodiment, however, the spray cleaning and suctioning functions
are provided by a removable cleaning attachment 320, which is
carried in part by the handle 314 and in part by the cleaning head
312.
[0080] The cleaning attachment 320 includes a housing 322, which
accommodates a fluid supply pump, fan motor assembly, optionally, a
power source, such as batteries (although in the illustrated
embodiment the device is provided with a power cord 324 for
attaching the device to a source of electrical power), and other
internal components similar to those shown in FIG. 4, although in
slightly different positions. A cleaning fluid tank 330 is
removably mounted to a lower end of the housing 322 and is fluidly
connected with a single spray nozzle 332 by a fluid supply conduit
334 in the form of a flexible hose. A dirt collection assembly 336,
analogous to dirt collection assembly 202, is received in a socket
80 of the housing 322 and is connected with a floor suction nozzle
338 by a flexible conduit 340. The housing 322 includes
conventional clips (not shown) or other known connecting members,
which allow it to be conveniently fitted to a rod 342 of the handle
assembly 314 and removed therefrom when the spraying/suctioning
functions of the attachment 320 are not being used. Alternatively,
a lower portion (not shown) of the rod 342 can be removed from the
handle assembly 314, and the housing 322 can be selectively
connected between an upper portion of the rod 342 and the universal
joint 316.
[0081] The suction nozzle 338 can be readily attached to the
cleaning head 312 with screws, bolts, clips, or other suitable
known attachment members (not shown). In one embodiment the
cleaning head has a plurality of clips 350 (four in the illustrated
embodiment). The clips are configured for selectively receiving and
gripping edges of a cleaning pad or sheet analogous to pad 70. In
one embodiment, the suction nozzle 338 can include a pair of arms
having resilient flexible umbrella-shaped protrusions 352 (FIG.
15A), which cooperate with a corresponding pair of the gripping
members 350 to selectively hold the suction nozzle to the cleaning
head until it is desired to remove the cleaning assembly 320 from
the device. In this embodiment, the suction nozzle does not pivot,
but remains angled toward the floor surface, even during spraying.
However, spraying and vacuuming can be performed separately, as
discussed above.
[0082] The cleaning assembly 320 also includes a spray trigger 360,
which clips on to or is otherwise selectively attached to a hand
grip 362 of the handle assembly. The trigger is connected by a cord
or rod to a valve (not shown) for releasing fluid from the tank.
Alternatively or additionally, the spray trigger 360 actuates the
pump. The fan motor assembly is actuated by a switch 364, which may
be located on the housing 322.
[0083] The cleaning assembly 320 allows a conventional stick
cleaning device, such as the Swiffer.TM. device sold by Proctor
& Gamble, to be converted to a suction/spray mop whenever these
functions are desired. For example, when only dry dirt is to be
removed with the pad 70, the attachment can be removed from the
device and stored until needed. When it is desired to use the
suction and/or wet mopping functions, of the attachment 320, the
housing 322 is connected to the handle 314, the suction nozzle 338
is connected to the cleaning head 312, and spray trigger 360
clipped on to the hand grip 362, which takes only a short time. The
device 300 is then ready for spraying and or suction operations in
a manner similar to that described for the device 10. For the
latter functions, the conventional electrostatic cleaning cloth of
the Swiffer.TM. device would be replaced with a cleaning and
mopping cloth, of the type identified by numeral 70 in FIG. 6.
[0084] With reference now to FIG. 16, a cleaning device 380
analogous to device 300 (or analogous to device 10) may be
configured to employ a wall mounted charger 382 for recharging the
batteries (not shown) within the housing. Alternatively, as shown
in FIG. 17, a device 390, analogous to device 300 (or to device 10)
may be configured with a socket 392 adapted to receive a drop in
battery pack 394 shown enlarged in FIG. 17A. One such battery pack
is sold by Black and Decker, Inc. of Towson, Md., under the mark
Versapack.TM.. As with device 300, cleaning device 380 includes a
removable cleaning attachment 396.
[0085] With reference now to FIG. 18, a hand held wet/dry cleaning
device suited to cleaning above floor surfaces, such as table tops,
ledges and the like, as well as floor surfaces is shown. One such
cleaning device is generally described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,347,428,
which is incorporated herein in its entirety, by reference.
According to the present invention, a cleaning device 400 includes
a housing 402, which supports a cleaning liquid container 404 for
supplying a cleaning solution to a spray nozzle 406. A suction
nozzle 408 is mounted below the spray nozzle for suctioning sprayed
cleaning solution and dirt from a surface to be cleaned. The
suction nozzle fluidly communicates with a dirty liquid container
410, removably mounted to a lower surface 412 of the housing 402.
An arcuate gripping handle 416 is connected to the housing at both
its ends.
[0086] As shown in FIG. 19, the cleaning device 400 may be fitted
with a cleaning head 420 for mopping the surface. Specifically, a
stem 422 is selectively connected with a lower surface of the
housing by a suitable known fitment. The stem 422 can have a
universal joint 424 (analogous to universal joint 16), or another
suitable joint, at its lower end through which the stem is
pivotally connected to the cleaning head 420. The cleaning head 420
carries a removable cleaning pad 426, analogous to pad 70, for
mopping and dusting the surface.
[0087] The device includes an on/off switch 430. The switch is
connected to a power source via an electrical cord 431. When
powered, a fan and motor assembly in the housing 402 draws a
suction force on the suction nozzle 408. A switch 432 connects the
power source with a cleaning fluid supply pump (not shown), which
delivers cleaning fluid from the tank 404 to the spray nozzle 406.
The switch 432 may be a three position switch, analogous to switch
152, and have a first (forward) position for operation of the
spray, a second (rearward) position for powering the suction and a
neutral (intermediate) position in which neither the spray nor the
suction is operational.
[0088] With reference now to FIGS. 20 and 21, a cleaning device 500
similar to the cleaning device 10 of FIG. 1 is shown. Cleaning
device 500 has a cleaning head 512 pivotally connected to a handle
assembly 514 by a universal joint 516 and receives a cleaning pad
70' as with the device 10. In place of the latch mechanism 190 and
torsion spring 180 of device 10, a suction nozzle 518 is manually
pivoted between lower and raised positions.
[0089] More particularly, the suction nozzle 518 is pivotably
mounted on the support plate via a pair of spaced apart arms 520,
522, which extend from a rearward end 524 of the suction nozzle.
The arms 520, 522 each have a hole 526, 528 respectively through
which pivot pins 530 extend to rotatably secure the suction nozzle
to corresponding flanges 532, 534 extending from an upper surface
536 of the support plate 512.
[0090] Each of the nozzle arms 520, 522 has a forward and rearward
concave surface 540, 542 which engage or ride upon a respective
detent 544 in the form of a flat spring. Ends of the flat spring
544 snap fit into corresponding slots 546, 548 defined in the
support plate upper surface 536, adjacent the respective support
plate flange 532, 534. The suction nozzle 18 is manually pivoted or
rotated from an operating (suction) position, in which the nozzle
is adjacent the floor surface, to a non-operating
(retracted/raised) position. In the suction position, illustrated
in FIG. 21, the forward surface 540 engages the flat spring 544. In
the retracted position, the rearward surface 542 engages the flat
spring. The suction nozzle 518 is able to move from one position to
the other, under slight manual pressure, since the surfaces 540,
542 ride along the detent until the suction nozzle is locked into
one of the two positions.
[0091] In the suction position, the suction nozzle is aligned
adjacent to and generally parallel with the floor surface to be
cleaned, with a suction inlet 550 pointing towards the floor. Air
entrained dirt is drawn from the suction nozzle 518 to a dirt
receptacle 552, via a flexible hose 554, as with the cleaning
device 10. In the retracted position, the inlet is spaced away from
the floor and spray nozzles 560 are able to spray the cleaning
fluid onto the floor surface without interference by the suction
nozzle 518.
[0092] It will be appreciated that the suction nozzle 518 with its
nozzle arms 520, 522 and curved surfaces 540, 542 may replace
nozzle 18 in the embodiment of FIG. 1. The flat spring 544 acts as
a latch and thus the latch 190 is not needed.
[0093] The invention has been described with reference to the
preferred embodiments. Obviously, modifications and alterations
will occur to others upon reading and understanding the preceding
detailed description. It is intended that the invention be
construed as including all such modifications and alterations
insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the
equivalents thereof.
* * * * *