U.S. patent application number 11/801196 was filed with the patent office on 2008-05-15 for surface treatment apparatus.
Invention is credited to Douglas C. Dayton, Sung K. Park.
Application Number | 20080109975 11/801196 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38556432 |
Filed Date | 2008-05-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080109975 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Park; Sung K. ; et
al. |
May 15, 2008 |
Surface treatment apparatus
Abstract
A surface treatment apparatus comprising an elongated
application head including at least one application implement, a
lockable swivel arm connected to a terminal end of the application
head, a lockable universal positioning joint connected to the
swivel arm, and an extendible wand connected to the universal
positioning joint. The universal positioning joint is disposed
between the swivel arm and the extendible wand and is configured to
pivotally join the swivel arm and the extendible wand such that the
application head is adjustably disposed at any one of a multiple of
positions relative to the extendible wand.
Inventors: |
Park; Sung K.; (Waban,
MA) ; Dayton; Douglas C.; (Harvard, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Carol H. Peters;Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and
Popeo, P.C., One Financial Center
Boston
MA
02111
US
|
Family ID: |
38556432 |
Appl. No.: |
11/801196 |
Filed: |
May 8, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60799201 |
May 9, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
15/105 ;
15/144.4; 401/138; 451/344 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B25G 1/04 20130101; B25G
3/38 20130101; A47L 1/08 20130101; B25G 1/06 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
15/105 ;
15/144.4; 401/138; 451/344 |
International
Class: |
A47L 1/08 20060101
A47L001/08; A47L 1/06 20060101 A47L001/06; A47L 13/00 20060101
A47L013/00; B24B 23/00 20060101 B24B023/00 |
Claims
1. A window cleaning apparatus comprising: an elongated cleaning
head including at least one cleaning implement; a lockable swivel
arm connected to a terminal end of the cleaning head; a lockable
universal positioning joint connected to the swivel arm; and an
extendible wand connected to the universal positioning joint,
wherein the universal positioning joint is disposed between the
swivel arm and the extendible wand and is configured to pivotally
join the swivel arm and the extendible wand such that the cleaning
head is adjustably disposed at any one of a multiple of positions
relative to the extendible wand.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the universal positioning
joint is configured to permit the cleaning head to be disposed
substantially perpendicular to the extendible wand.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the universal positioning
joint is configured to permit the cleaning head to be disposed
substantially parallel to the extendible wand.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the universal positioning
joint is configured to permit the cleaning head to be disposed in
at least one of: (i) a substantially perpendicular orientation
relative to the extendible wand, (ii) a substantially parallel
position relative to the extendible wand, and (iii) any one of a
multiple of positions between a substantially perpendicular
orientation and a substantially parallel orientation to the
extendible handle.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the universal positioning
joint includes a locking mechanism configured to releasably lock
the swivel arm and the extendible wand when disposed in at least a
first position and when disposed in at least a second unlocked
position to permit the swivel arm and the extendible wand to pivot
about the universal positioning joint.
6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the universal positioning
joint includes a locking mechanism configured to releasably lock
the swivel arm and the extendible wand when disposed in at least a
first position and when disposed in at least a second unlocked
position to permit the swivel arm and the extendible wand to pivot
about the universal positioning joint to incrementally and
adjustably position the cleaning head at any one of a multiple of
positions relative to the extendible wand.
7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the locking mechanism is
configured to permit at least one of: the swivel arm and the
extendible wand to pivot about 360 degrees about the universal
locking joint.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning
implement comprises at least one of: (i) a wiper blade, (ii) a
sponge, and (iii) a scrubber rail along at least a portion of the
length of the cleaning head.
9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the at least one surface
cleaning implement is disposed along one of: (i) a first side of
the cleaning head and (ii) a second side of the cleaning head
opposite to the first side.
10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the cleaning head defines a
cross sectional profile of at least one of: (i) less than about one
inch and (ii) less than about two inches.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the swivel arm includes a
locking mechanism configured to releasably lock the swivel arm when
disposed in at least a first position and when disposed in at least
a second unlocked position to permit the swivel arm to pivot about
the locking mechanism.
12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the extendible wand includes
a first portion connected to the universal positioning joint, the
first portion being configure to be telescopically and slidably
received by a second portion of the extendible wand, such that, the
first portion retracts into and extends from the second portion to
shorten or to lengthen the extendible wand.
13. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a handle connected
to the extendible wand opposite to the universal positioning joint,
the interior of the handle defining a fluid reservoir and the
handle comprising an actuating mechanism disposed and configured in
fluid communication with the fluid reservoir to express fluid from
the reservoir.
14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the fluid reservoir is in
fluid communication with an interior channel defined by the
interior of the extendible wand such that the interior channel
receives fluid expressed from the fluid reservoir.
15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the interior channel of the
extendible wand is in fluid communication with an interior channel
defined through the universal positioning joint, an interior
channel defined by the interior of the swivel arm and an interior
channel within the interior of the cleaning head.
16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the handle further comprises
a pressurizing mechanism configured and disposed to pressurize
fluid contained within the fluid reservoir.
17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cleaning head further
comprises one or more jets or nozzles to express fluid from the
interior of the cleaning head.
18. A surface treatment apparatus comprising: an elongated
application head including at least one application implement; a
lockable swivel arm connected to a terminal end of the application
head; a lockable universal positioning joint connected to the
swivel arm; and an extendible wand connected to the universal
positioning joint, wherein the universal positioning joint is
disposed between the swivel arm and the extendible wand and is
configured to pivotally join the swivel arm and the extendible wand
such that the application head is adjustably disposed at any one of
a multiple of positions relative to the extendible wand.
19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the universal positioning
joint is configured to permit the application head to be disposed
substantially perpendicular to the extendible wand.
20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the universal positioning
joint is configured to permit the application head to be disposed
substantially parallel to the extendible wand.
21. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the universal positioning
joint is configured to permit the application head to be disposed
in at least one of: (i) a substantially perpendicular orientation
relative to the extendible wand, (ii) a substantially parallel
position relative to the extendible wand, and (iii) any one of a
multiple of positions between a substantially perpendicular
orientation and a substantially parallel orientation relative to
the extendible handle.
22. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the universal positioning
joint includes a locking mechanism configured to releasably lock
the swivel arm and the extendible wand when disposed in at least a
first position and when disposed in at least a second unlocked
position to permit the swivel arm and the extendible wand to pivot
about the universal positioning joint.
23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the universal positioning
joint includes a locking mechanism configured to releasably lock
the swivel arm and the extendible wand when disposed in at least a
first position and when disposed in at least a second unlocked
position to permit the swivel arm and the extendible wand to pivot
about the universal positioning joint to incrementally and
adjustably position the cleaning head at any one of a multiple of
positions relative to the extendible wand.
24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the locking mechanism is
configured to permit at least one of: the swivel arm and the
extendible wand to pivot about 360 degrees about the universal
locking joint.
25. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the at least one application
implement comprises at least one of: (i) a wiper, (ii) a sponge,
(iii) a scrubber rail, (iv) a roller, (v) a scraper, (vi) a sander,
(vii) a brush, and (viii) an applicator along at least a portion of
the length of the application head.
26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the at least one application
implement is disposed along one of: (i) a first side of the
application head and (ii) a second side of the application head
opposite to the first side.
27. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the application head defines
a cross sectional profile of at least one of: (i) less than about
one inch and (ii) less than about two inches.
28. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the swivel arm includes a
locking mechanism configured to releasably lock the swivel arm when
disposed in at least a first position and when disposed in at least
a second unlocked position to permit the swivel arm to pivot about
the locking mechanism.
29. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the extendible wand includes
a first portion connected to the universal positioning joint, the
first portion being configure to be telescopically and slidably
received by a second portion of the extendible wand, such that, the
first portion retracts into and extends from the second portion to
shorten or to lengthen the extendible wand.
30. The apparatus of claim 18, further comprising a handle
connected to the extendible wand opposite to the universal
positioning joint, the interior of the handle defining a fluid
reservoir and the handle comprising an actuating mechanism disposed
and configured in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir to
express fluid from the reservoir.
31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the fluid reservoir is in
fluid communication with an interior channel defined by the
interior of the extendible wand such that the interior channel
receives fluid expressed from the fluid reservoir.
32. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein the interior channel of the
extendible wand is in fluid communication with an interior channel
defined through the universal positioning joint, an interior
channel defined by the interior of the swivel arm and an interior
channel within the interior of the application head.
33. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the handle further comprises
a pressurizing mechanism configured and disposed to pressurize
fluid contained within the fluid reservoir.
34. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the application head further
comprises one or more jets or nozzles to express fluid from the
interior of the application head.
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY TO PRIOR APPLICATION
[0001] This patent application claims priority to U.S. provisional
patent application No. 60/799,201, filed May 9, 2006, the
disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A surface treatment apparatus for accessing and treating
surfaces includes a lockable universal positioning joint to permit
the apparatus to be articulated and configured in an ergonomically
safe and comfortable user form factor.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Accessing and contacting surfaces that are typically
difficult or impossible to reach with a human arm, or with the
assistance of tools or implements that help to extend the length of
a user's arm, often require the user to be located in an
uncomfortable and unsafe position. Prior art tools and implements
exist that help to extend the length of a human arm for purposes of
accessing and contacting a surface, such as, for cleaning,
treating, sealing, polishing, painting, texturizing, sanding, and
otherwise affecting the surface. Such tools and implements however
often position an end user in an uncomfortable position such that
the user experiences body and arm strain in an effort to
appropriately use a tool. In addition, a user's efforts to employ a
particular tool or implement may place the user in an unsafe or
dangerous position. Further, a tool or implement may not be
appropriately and effectively employed, and therefore does not
achieve its full potential, because of a user's inability to safely
and comfortably use the tool or implement. In the context of window
cleaning, this is apparent whereby prior art tools or implements
often require a user to be in an uncomfortable and/or unsafe
position when attempting to access and contact difficult to reach
areas of window surfaces, such as, for example, exterior window
surfaces and window surfaces of relatively tall and wide
windows.
SUMMARY
[0004] An object of the invention includes an improved surface
treatment apparatus and, more particularly, an improved window
cleaning apparatus, which defines an ergonomic form factor that
permits a user of the apparatus to effectively, safely and
comfortably employ the apparatus to access and contact surfaces for
treatment and/or cleaning.
[0005] In general, in an aspect, the invention provides a window
cleaning apparatus comprising an elongated cleaning head including
at least one cleaning implement, a lockable swivel arm connected to
a terminal end of the cleaning head, a lockable universal
positioning joint connected to the swivel arm, and an extendible
wand connected to the universal positioning joint. The universal
positioning joint is disposed between the swivel arm and the
extendible wand, and is configured to pivotally join the swivel arm
and the extendible wand such that the cleaning head is adjustably
disposed at any one of a multiple of positions relative to the
extendible wand.
[0006] Implementations of the invention may include one or more of
the following features. The apparatus further comprises the
universal positioning joint configured to permit the cleaning head
to be disposed substantially perpendicular to the extendible wand.
The universal positioning joint is configured to permit the
cleaning head to be disposed substantially parallel to the
extendible wand. The universal positioning joint is configured to
permit the cleaning head to be disposed in at least one of: (i) a
substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the extendible
wand, (ii) a substantially parallel position relative to the
extendible wand, and (iii) any one of a multiple of positions
between a substantially perpendicular orientation and a
substantially parallel orientation to the extendible handle. The
universal positioning joint includes a locking mechanism configured
to releasably lock the swivel arm and the extendible wand when
disposed in at least a first position and when disposed in at least
a second unlocked position to permit the swivel arm and the
extendible wand to pivot about the universal positioning joint. The
universal positioning joint includes a locking mechanism configured
to releasably lock the swivel arm and the extendible wand when
disposed in at least a first position and when disposed in at least
a second unlocked position to permit the swivel arm and the
extendible wand to pivot about the universal positioning joint to
incrementally and adjustably position the cleaning head at any one
of a multiple of positions relative to the extendible wand. The
locking mechanism is configured to permit at least one of: the
swivel arm and the extendible wand to pivot about 360 degrees about
the universal locking joint.
[0007] Implementations of the invention may also include one or
more of the following features. The at least one cleaning implement
comprises at least one of: (i) a wiper blade, (ii) a sponge, and
(iii) a scrubber rail along at least a portion of the length of the
cleaning head. The at least one surface cleaning implement is
disposed along one of: (i) a first side of the cleaning head and
(ii) a second side of the cleaning head opposite to the first side.
The cleaning head defines a cross sectional profile of at least one
of: (i) less than about one inch and (ii) less than about two
inches.
[0008] Implementations of the invention may also include one or
more of the following features. The swivel arm includes a locking
mechanism configured to releasably lock the swivel arm when
disposed in at least a first position and when disposed in at least
a second unlocked position to permit the swivel arm to pivot about
the locking mechanism. The extendible wand includes a first portion
connected to the universal positioning joint, the first portion
being configure to be telescopically and slidably received by a
second portion of the extendible wand, such that, the first portion
retracts into and extends from the second portion to shorten or to
lengthen the extendible wand.
[0009] Implementations of the invention may further include one or
more of the following. The apparatus includes a handle connected to
the extendible wand opposite to the universal positioning joint,
the interior of the handle defining a fluid reservoir and the
handle comprising an actuating mechanism disposed and configured in
fluid communication with the fluid reservoir to express fluid from
the reservoir. The fluid reservoir is in fluid communication with
an interior channel defined by the interior of the extendible wand
such that the interior channel receives fluid expressed from the
fluid reservoir. The interior channel of the extendible wand is in
fluid communication with an interior channel defined through the
universal positioning joint, an interior channel defined by the
interior of the swivel arm and an interior channel within the
interior of the cleaning head. The handle further comprises a
pressurizing mechanism configured and disposed to pressurize fluid
contained within the fluid reservoir. The apparatus further
includes one or more jets or nozzles to express fluid from the
interior of the cleaning head.
[0010] In general, in another aspect, the invention provides a
surface treatment apparatus comprising an elongated application
head including at least one application implement, a lockable
swivel arm connected to a terminal end of the application head, a
lockable universal positioning joint connected to the swivel arm,
and an extendible wand connected to the universal positioning
joint. The universal positioning joint is disposed between the
swivel arm and the extendible wand and is configured to pivotally
join the swivel arm and the extendible wand such that the
application head is adjustably disposed at any one of a multiple of
positions relative to the extendible wand.
[0011] Implementations of the invention may include one or more of
the following features. The universal positioning joint is
configured to permit the application head to be disposed
substantially perpendicular to the extendible wand. The universal
positioning joint is configured to permit the application head to
be disposed substantially parallel to the extendible wand. The
universal positioning joint is configured to permit the application
head to be disposed in at least one of: (i) a substantially
perpendicular orientation relative to the extendible wand, (ii) a
substantially parallel position relative to the extendible wand,
and (iii) any one of a multiple of positions between a
substantially perpendicular orientation and a substantially
parallel orientation relative to the extendible handle. The
universal positioning joint includes a locking mechanism configured
to releasably lock the swivel arm and the extendible wand when
disposed in at least a first position and when disposed in at least
a second unlocked position to permit the swivel arm and the
extendible wand to pivot about the universal positioning joint. The
universal positioning joint includes a locking mechanism configured
to releasably lock the swivel arm and the extendible wand when
disposed in at least a first position and when disposed in at least
a second unlocked position to permit the swivel arm and the
extendible wand to pivot about the universal positioning joint to
incrementally and adjustably position the cleaning head at any one
of a multiple of positions relative to the extendible wand. The
locking mechanism is configured to permit at least one of: the
swivel arm and the extendible wand to pivot about 360 degrees about
the universal locking joint.
[0012] Implementations of the invention may also include one or
more of the following features. The at least one application
implement comprises at least one of: (i) a wiper, (ii) a sponge,
(iii) a scrubber rail, (iv) a roller, (v) a scraper, (vi) a sander,
(vii) a brush, and (viii) an applicator along at least a portion of
the length of the application head. The at least one application
implement is disposed along one of: (i) a first side of the
application head and (ii) a second side of the application head
opposite to the first side. The application head defines a cross
sectional profile of at least one of: (i) less than about one inch
and (ii) less than about two inches.
[0013] Implementations of the invention may also include one or
more of the following features. The swivel arm includes a locking
mechanism configured to releasably lock the swivel arm when
disposed in at least a first position and when disposed in at least
a second unlocked position to permit the swivel arm to pivot about
the locking mechanism. The extendible wand includes a first portion
connected to the universal positioning joint, the first portion
being configure to be telescopically and slidably received by a
second portion of the extendible wand, such that, the first portion
retracts into and extends from the second portion to shorten or to
lengthen the extendible wand.
[0014] Implementations of the invention may further include one or
more of the following features. The apparatus includes a handle
connected to the extendible wand opposite to the universal
positioning joint, the interior of the handle defining a fluid
reservoir and the handle comprising an actuating mechanism disposed
and configured in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir to
express fluid from the reservoir. The fluid reservoir is in fluid
communication with an interior channel defined by the interior of
the extendible wand such that the interior channel receives fluid
expressed from the fluid reservoir. The interior channel of the
extendible wand is in fluid communication with an interior channel
defined through the universal positioning joint, an interior
channel defined by the interior of the swivel arm and an interior
channel within the interior of the application head. The handle
further comprises a pressurizing mechanism configured and disposed
to pressurize fluid contained within the fluid reservoir. The
application head further comprises one or more jets or nozzles to
express fluid from the interior of the application head.
[0015] Various aspects of the invention may provide one or more of
the following capabilities. A surface treatment apparatus may be
provided including a lockable universal positioning joint that
articulates the apparatus to configure the apparatus in an
ergonomically safe and comfortable form factor that permits a user
of the apparatus to safely and comfortably access and contact
surfaces. A surface treatment apparatus may include a lockable
universal positioning joint to define an optimal geometry between
an application head and an extendible wand to permit a user of the
apparatus to easily and safely access and contact a surface,
including a difficult to reach surface, wherein the application
head may include one or more implements for cleaning, treating,
and/or otherwise affecting the surface. The extendible wand may
incorporate an adjustable length into the apparatus. The position
of the application head relative to the extendible wand, and/or the
length of the extendible wand, may enable the surface treatment
apparatus to be configured for a particular surface treatment
application or task. The positions of the application head and
extendible wand, and/or the length of the extendible wand, may
permit a user of the apparatus to access and contact a surface
without placing the user in an uncomfortable and/or unsafe
position. The universal positioning joint may articulate the
apparatus to position the application head vertically above a
user's hand and arm, horizontally parallel to a user's hand, and/or
at any one of a multiple of positions to enable the user to
effectively, comfortably and safely perform a surface treatment
motion or stroke and to facilitate movement of the apparatus to
avoid or increment the apparatus around obstacles in its path. The
surface treatment apparatus may include any of a number of fluid
delivery systems for increasing efficacy in delivering fluid to the
application head and a surface to be treated. A fluid delivery
system of the apparatus may enable a portable and convenient fluid
supply. The fluid delivery system may include a handle attached to
the apparatus including an internal fluid reservoir and a channel
or conduit system in fluid communication with the reservoir to
deliver fluid to the application head. The fluid reservoir may be
pressurized to express fluid under pressure into the channel or
conduit system of the apparatus for immediate and effective
delivery of fluid to the application head. A surface treatment
apparatus may be provided including a first and a second universal
positioning joint that articulates the apparatus to configure the
apparatus in an ergonomically safe and comfortable form factor that
permits a user of the apparatus to safely and comfortably access
and contact surfaces. Such apparatuses for surface treatment may be
provided for cleaning window surfaces.
[0016] These and other advantages of the invention, along with the
invention itself, will be more fully understood after a review of
the following figures, detailed description, and claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of a surface treatment apparatus according to the
invention configured as a window cleaning apparatus.
[0018] FIGS. 2-3 are schematic perspective views illustrating a
user employing the window cleaning apparatus shown in FIG. 1 in a
vertical motion or stroke.
[0019] FIGS. 4-5 are schematic perspective views illustrating a
user employing the window cleaning apparatus shown in FIG. 1 in a
horizontal motion or stroke
[0020] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an internal
configuration of a cleaning head of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1
and FIG. 7.
[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary
embodiment of a window cleaning apparatus according to the
invention.
[0022] FIG. 8A-8B are cross-sectional views of quick connect
couplings of a handle, an extendible wand and/or an extension
element of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 7.
[0023] FIGS. 9-10 are perspective views illustrating a remote fluid
supply container for connection to the apparatus shown in FIG. 1
and FIG. 7.
[0024] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating another
embodiment of a handle of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 and FIG.
7.
[0025] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
fluid delivery system of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 and FIG.
7.
[0026] FIG. 13 is another exemplary embodiment of the apparatus
according to the invention including a first and a second universal
positioning joint.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] The invention provides a surface treatment apparatus
including an application head, a lockable swivel arm configured to
position or angle the head, a lockable universal positioning joint
configured to articulate the apparatus, an extendible wand
incorporating an adjustable length into the apparatus, and a
handle. The swivel arm and the universal positioning joint
configure and orient the apparatus relative to a surface and/or a
position of a user's hand and/or arm. The apparatus defines a form
factor that permits movement of the application head along various
directions, enables extension of the application head to contact
remote or difficult to reach surfaces, and facilitates moving or
incrementing the head about obstacles along its path. The apparatus
essentially defines an ergonomically safe and comfortable user form
factor that permits a user of the apparatus to articulate the
application head and/or the extendible wand at a preferred angle or
orientation relative to a surface and/or the user's arm and body,
to extend the wand for sufficient length, and to facilitate contact
and movement of the application head along the surface. The
application head may be configured in any of a variety of
constructions and may incorporate one or more of a range of
implements to achieve different functions or surface treatments
using the apparatus. The apparatus according to the invention
essentially enables a user to safely and comfortably access or
reach surfaces and, in particular, difficult to reach surfaces,
with the apparatus without the user positioning their arm or body
in unsafe and uncomfortable positions, and to contact and move the
apparatus along a surface in a motion or stroke that is effective
and comfortable to the user.
[0028] For purposes of disclosure, and not to limit the invention,
the invention is described below in the context of window cleaning
and the apparatus includes a window cleaning apparatus and the
application head includes a cleaning head constructed and arranged
to contact and clean interior and exterior window surfaces. Those
of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other embodiments of
the surface treatment apparatus according to the invention are
possible that incorporate one or more application heads and
implements, each constructed and arranged to perform one or more
functions in a variety of surface treatment applications including,
but not limited to, treating, sealing, polishing, painting,
texturizing, sanding and otherwise affecting a surface. Other
embodiments are within the scope of the invention.
[0029] Referring to FIG. 1, in an aspect, the invention provides a
window cleaning apparatus 10 including a cleaning head 12, a
lockable swivel arm 14, a lockable universal positioning joint 16,
an extendible wand 18, and a handle 20. The lockable universal
positioning joint 16 and the lockable swivel arm 14 are constructed
and arranged to adjustably articulate the apparatus 10 such that
the cleaning head 12 is disposed at an optimal angle or orientation
relative to the extendible wand 18 and a user's hand and arm to
enable the user to safely and comfortably contact the window
surface with the cleaning head 12 and to move the cleaning head 12
along the window surface in an effective and comfortable motion or
stroke. The extendible wand 18 adjustably configures the apparatus
10 with sufficient length to permit a user to access all portions
of window surface, such as difficult to reach exterior
surfaces.
[0030] Referring to FIGS. 2-3, and with further reference to FIG.
1, the swivel arm 14 and/or the universal joint 16 adjust the
apparatus 10 and, in particular, adjust the geometry of the
cleaning head 12 and the extendible wand 18 relative to one another
and to a user's hand and arm, while the extendible wand 18 adjusts
the length L.sub.1 of the apparatus 10, to help to configure the
apparatus 10 for use in cleaning different types and sizes of
windows. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a user applies the apparatus 10
to clean an exterior window surface of a casement window whereby
the extendible wand 18 provides sufficient length L.sub.1 to permit
the user to reach all areas of the window surface, including
difficult to reach areas, with the cleaning head 12 without the
user extending their arm far outside the window and without the
user experiencing body strain and discomfort. The length L.sub.1 of
the extendible wand 18 is slidably adjustable, as shown by arrow
300 in FIG. 1. The swivel arm 14 and/or the universal positioning
joint 16 position the cleaning head 12 at an optimal geometry for a
particular cleaning application. As described below, the swivel arm
14 and/or the extendible wand 18 pivot about the universal position
joint 16, as shown by arrow 200 in FIG. 1 to adjust the geometry of
the cleaning head 12 and the extendible wand 18 and a user's hand
and arm. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the cleaning head 12 is
positioned in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to
the extendible wand 18 and above a user's hand and arm to enable
access to exterior surfaces of a window, while the user remains in
a safe and comfortable position inside the window casement. In
addition, the geometry of the cleaning head 12 relative to the
extendible wand 18 and a user's hand and arm helps to permit the
user to safely and comfortably move the cleaning head 12 along the
exterior window surface. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a user performs
a vertical cleaning motion or stroke from inside the window
casement.
[0031] As described below, the swivel arm 14 further disposes the
cleaning head 12 by pivoting, as shown by arrow 100 in FIG. 1, to
position or angle the cleaning head 12 toward a window surface to
help to facilitate effective contact of the cleaning head 12 with
the window surface.
[0032] In addition, as shown in FIG. 3 and as will be described
below, the apparatus 10 defines a low or narrow profile to permit
the apparatus 10 to extend between two panes of, for instance, a
double hung window to enable window surface cleaning. As described
above, the geometry of the cleaning head 12 relative to the
extendible wand 18 and a user's arm and hand help to facilitate
access to difficult to reach window surfaces, such as those shown,
and to enable the user to safely and comfortably clean such
surfaces.
[0033] Referring to FIGS. 4-5, and with further reference to FIG.
1, the swivel arm 14 and/or the universal joint 12 also position
the cleaning head 12 in a substantially horizontal orientation
relative to the extendible wand 18 and a user's hand whereby the
cleaning head 12 is horizontally parallel to the wand 18 and a
user's hand. In addition, the cleaning head 12 may be further
aligned with the wand 18 and a user's hand to dispose the head 12
at approximately the same height as the wand 18 and the user's
hand. This configuration of the apparatus 10 is useful for cleaning
exterior surfaces of windows that are relatively wide and would
typically require a user to reach far outside a window casement,
with difficulty, danger and discomfort to the user, to enable the
user to reach all areas of an exterior window surface. As
mentioned, the length L.sub.1 of the extendible wand 18 configures
the apparatus 10 with sufficient length to enable a user to reach
all areas of an exterior surface of a wide window with the cleaning
head 12 without the user dangerously extending their arm or body
far outside the window and experiencing body and arm strain. The
swivel arm 14 and/or the universal joint 16 dispose the cleaning
head 12 at an optimal geometry relative to the wand 18 and a user's
hand to help to achieve effective contact of the cleaning head 12
with a window surface and to enable the user to safely and
comfortably move the cleaning head 12 along the window surface in
an upward/downward vertical motion or stroke.
[0034] In addition, configuration or orientation of the apparatus
10, as shown in FIGS. 2-5, may be adjusted, e.g., turned about 45
degrees, such that a user can employ the apparatus 10 to accomplish
a safe and comfortable back and forth horizontal motion or stroke
across a window surface. Further, the cleaning head 12 and the
extendible wand 18 may define any other geometry than those shown
in FIGS. 2-5 to position or orient the cleaning head 12 relative to
a user's hand and/or arm and to optimize a form factor the
apparatus 10 defines relative to a particular type and size of
window.
[0035] Referring to FIG. 6, and with further reference to FIG. 1,
the cleaning head 12 is a low profile member including at least one
cleaning implement, such as, for instance, a wiper blade 12A, as
shown in FIGS. 1 and 6. Preferably, the cleaning head 12 is an
elongated member and the at least one cleaning implement covers at
least a portion of the length of the member to provide the
apparatus 10 with sufficient and effective surface cleaning area.
The length of the cleaning head 12 and the cleaning implement may
be any of a range of lengths, depending upon the window cleaning
application.
[0036] The cleaning head 12 may be one-sided, wherein the cleaning
head 12 includes a single implement, such as the wiper blade 10A,
disposed along a first side of the cleaning head 12. Optionally,
the cleaning head 12 may be two-sided, wherein a second implement,
such as, for instance, a scrubber rail or sponge 12B, may be
disposed along a second side of the cleaning head 12, e.g.,
opposite to the first side, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, to
incorporate the cleaning head 12 with multiple functions. In
addition, the implement and, in particular, the wiper blade 10A and
the scrubber rail or sponge 12B may be removably secured to the
cleaning head 12 such that the wiper blade 10A and the rail or
sponge 10B can be removed for cleaning, storage, or repair or for
replacement with other cleaning implements. The invention is not
limited to the type of implement disposed along the cleaning head
12 and envisions the cleaning head 12 is configured to accept any
of variety of other implements including, but not limited to, a
scraper, a brush, a roller, a drier, an applicator, and any other
implement configured to clean, treat and/or otherwise contact a
window surface for a particular application.
[0037] The wiper 12A and the scrubber rail or sponge 12B are
disposed and angled along at least a portion of the length of the
cleaning head 12 and are configured to contact a surface, e.g.,
substantially the entire length of the wiper 12A or the scrubber
rail or sponge 12B contacts a surface, to be cleaned.
[0038] The interior of the cleaning head 12 defines an internal
fluid channel 12C configured to receive fluid from a fluid channel
the interior of the swivel arm 14 defines, as described below. The
internal fluid channel 12C extends along at least a portion of the
interior of the cleaning head 12 to distribute fluid through the
member. The cleaning head 12 further includes one or more spray
jets or nozzles 12D disposed along the cleaning head 12 and
configured in fluid communication with the internal fluid channel
12C. Each spray jet or nozzle 12D includes an outlet 12E configured
in fluid communication with the internal fluid channel 12C to
receive fluid from the channel 12C to enable the jet or nozzle 12D
to express fluid from the cleaning head 12. The jets or nozzles 12D
may be positioned substantially equidistant from one another along
the cleaning head 12. Optionally, one or more of the jets or
nozzles 12D are adjustable such that the positions of the outlets
12E are altered to change the direction in which the jets or
nozzles 12D express fluid.
[0039] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, the jets or nozzles 12D are
disposed along the second side of the cleaning head 12 preferably
above the scrubber rail or sponge 12B, or other implement(s), to
express fluid from the cleaning head 12 above the rail or sponge
12B to a surface to be cleaned. For instance, when the rail or
sponge 12B contacts a surface to be cleaned, one or more jets or
nozzles 12D express fluid above the rail or sponge 12B to help to
prevent running or streaking of fluid along the surface below the
rail or sponge 12B to thereby facilitate efficient application of
fluid and surface cleaning. Alternatively, or additionally, the
jets or nozzles 12D may be disposed along the first side of the
cleaning head 12 above the wiper blade 12A, or other
implement(s).
[0040] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the low profile
of the cleaning head 12 that results from the compact dimensions of
the cleaning head 12 and the low profile of the wiper blade 12A,
the scrubber rail or sponge 12B, and/or the plurality of jets or
nozzles 12D. As shown, the cleaning head 12 may define a width
W.sub.1 that is relatively narrow, e.g., approximately one inch or
two inches. In addition, the width W.sub.1 of the cleaning head 12
may be related to the application, e.g., the type of windows or
other surfaces, in which the apparatus 10 is being used. As an
example, FIG. 6 shows the cleaning head 12 positioned between the
separate panes 60A and 60B of a double hung window, illustrating
the low profile of the cleaning head 12 that permits the apparatus
10 and, in particular, the cleaning head 12 to access the interior
surfaces of the panes 60A and 60B for cleaning.
[0041] With further reference to FIG. 1, the lockable swivel arm 14
is connected to a terminal end 12F of the cleaning head 12 and is
configured to swivel or pivot, as shown by arrow 100 in FIG. 1,
about a lockable swivel joint 14A to permit adjustment of a
position or an angle of the cleaning head 12. The swivel arm 14
includes a first portion 14B connected to the cleaning head
terminal end 12F and slidably received by a second portion 14C that
is connected to the lockable universal positioning joint 16. The
swivel joint 14A is defined at about the point at which the first
and the second portions 14B and 14C interface and is constructed
and arranged to releasably lock the first and the second portions
14B and 14C and to permit the portions 14B and 14C to pivot about
one another, as shown by arrow 100 in FIG. 1, when disposed in an
unlocked position. The swivel joint 14A may include any of a
variety of locking mechanisms constructed and arranged to
releasably lock the first and second portions 14B and 14C in place
to securely position the swivel arm 14 and the cleaning head 12 at
a desired or required position or angle. Suitable locking
mechanisms enable the swivel joint 14A to be configured as a fluid
tight joint and may include, but are not limited to, screw clamps,
cam locks, collet locks, ratchet locks, friction clamps, tooth
locking mechanisms, cammed magnetic locks, magnetic cable locks and
similar configurations.
[0042] When unlocked, the swivel joint 14A helps to facilitate
position adjustment and angling of the cleaning head 12 relative to
a surface to be cleaned such that the cleaning head 12 effectively
contacts the surface for cleaning. In addition, the swivel arm 14
helps to further facilitate adjustment of a position and/or an
angle of the cleaning head 12 to help configure an optimal geometry
of the cleaning head 12 relative to the extendible wand 18 such
that a user of the apparatus 10 achieves, as described above, an
ergonomically comfortable and effective extension of the apparatus
10 and a cleaning motion or stroke of the cleaning head 12.
Further, the swivel arm 14 helps to angle or position the cleaning
head 12 to enable a user to manipulate the apparatus 10 and/or the
cleaning head 12 to move around obstacles in the path of the
cleaning head 12. The cleaning head 12 permits a user to move
around or next to, for instance, window frames, panes, and other
obstacles with a comfortable and effective cleaning motion or
stroke.
[0043] As shown in FIGS. 1-5, the first portion 14B of the swivel
arm 14 defines a right angle to dispose the cleaning head 12 at a
distance from the extendible wand 18 sufficient to permit pivoting
movement and angling adjustment of the cleaning head 12 toward a
window surface to facilitate effective contact of the cleaning head
12 with the window surface. The angle of the swivel arm 14 also
helps to dispose the universal locking joint 16 at a position
opposite to the cleaning head 12 that is in alignment with
approximately the center of the elongated cleaning head 12, as
shown in FIG. 1. In this configuration, the apparatus 10 conveys
pressure or force that a user applies to the apparatus 10 to the
cleaning head 12, such that, the pressure or force the cleaning
head 12 applies to a surface is substantially consistent along at
least a portion of the length of the cleaning head 12 in contact
with the surface. The contact the cleaning head 12A makes with a
surface and the pressure or force the cleaning head 12 applies to
the surface, e.g., during movement of the cleaning head 12 along
the surface, is substantially consistent along at least a portion
of the length of the cleaning head 12 in contact with the surface.
For example, when a user applies pressure or force to the apparatus
10 configured as shown in FIG. 1, the wiper blade 12A contacts and
applies pressure or force to a surface substantially consistently
along at least a portion of its length in contact with a surface.
As a result, the motion or stroke of the wiper blade 12A along a
surface is more consistent and effective.
[0044] The angle of the swivel arm 14 further helps a user of the
apparatus 10 to manipulate or work the cleaning head 12, and, more
particularly, any cleaning implement attached to the cleaning head
12, into comers and narrow openings, around or adjacent obstacles
in the cleaning head path, such as window panes and frames, and
other difficult to access or clean areas of window surfaces.
[0045] Still referring to FIG. 1, and with further reference to
FIGS. 2-5, the apparatus 10 includes the lockable universal
positioning joint 16 constructed and arranged to articulate the
apparatus 10 whereby a position or an angle of the cleaning head 12
relative to the swivel arm 14, the extendible wand 18 and/or the
handle 20 is achieved to adjustably position or orient the cleaning
head 12 and/or the extendible wand 18 at an appropriate and optimal
geometry. As mentioned, the universal joint 16 configures the
apparatus 10 in an ergonomically safe, comfortable and effective
user form factor. Such form factor enables a user to access
difficult to reach areas of window surfaces with the apparatus 10
and to produce an effective and comfortable cleaning motion or
stroke along window surfaces with the cleaning head 12 while the
user remains in a safe and comfortable position inside window
casements. The form factor also helps to eliminate the need for a
user to extend their arm and/or body dangerously and/or
uncomfortably outside a window casement.
[0046] As shown in FIGS. 2-5, the joint 16 permits the swivel arm
14 and/or the extendible wand 18 to pivot, in a direction shown by
arrow 200 in FIG. 1, about the joint 16 to position or orient the
cleaning head 12 in a variety of positions relative to the swivel
arm 14, the extendible wand 18, and/or the handle 20, as may be
required or desired for a particular application. The geometry of
the cleaning head 12 relative to the extendible wand 18, the swivel
arm 14 and/or the handle 20 may permit a user's hand and arm to be
disposed approximately below the cleaning head 12 during use of the
apparatus 10, or to be disposed parallel to and, optionally, inline
with the cleaning head 12 to configure the apparatus 10 in the
required or desired form factor.
[0047] The universal positioning joint 16 includes a locking
mechanism constructed and arranged to releasably and securely lock
the swivel arm 14 and the extendible wand 18 in a given position
and is configured as a fluid tight joint. Suitable locking
mechanisms include, but are not limited to, screw clamps, cam
locks, collet locks, ratchet locks, friction claims and any locking
configurations or combinations.
[0048] With further reference to FIG. 1, an interior of the swivel
arm 14 defines an internal fluid supply channel (not shown) that is
disposed in fluid communication with an internal fluid supply
channel (not shown) that an interior of the positioning joint 16
defines. The internal fluid supply channels of the arm 14 and the
joint 16 help to deliver fluid to the internal channel 12C of the
cleaning head 12.
[0049] The internal fluid supply channel of the positioning joint
16 may include an enclosed, gasketed cavity internally disposed
within the joint 16. Alternatively, the fluid supply channel of the
joint 16 may be disposed along an outer surface of the joint 16,
and configured at one end to connect to the internal fluid channel
of the extendible wand 18 and at another opposite end to the
internal fluid channel of the swivel arm 14 via fluid-tight ports.
In this case, the channel would extend from an output port of the
extendible wand 18, along the external surface of the joint 16, and
terminate into an input port defined in the swivel arm 14 to convey
fluid from the wand 18 to the swivel arm 14.
[0050] As described below, an interior of the extendible wand 18
defines an internal fluid supply channel in fluid communication
with the channel of the joint 16 to deliver fluid expressed from an
interior reservoir 21 of the handle 20 to the channels of the joint
16 and the arm 14 and ultimately to the internal fluid channel 12C
of the cleaning head 12.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 1, the extendible wand 18 is constructed
and arranged to adjust the length and the geometry of the apparatus
10 relative to the application or surface, e.g., the type and size
of a window, in which the apparatus 10 is used. The extendible wand
18 includes a first portion 18A that is telescopically and slidably
received by a second portion 18B. The first portion 18A moves
inward into the interior of the second portion 18B to reduce the
length L.sub.1 of the extendible wand 18 and extends outwardly from
the interior of the first portion 18A to increase the length
L.sub.1 of the extendible wand, as shown by arrow 300 in FIG.
1.
[0052] The extendible wand 18 is further configured along one end
18C of the second portion 18B to releasably lock the first and the
second portions 18A and 18B in place. Such a configuration may
include, but is not limited to, a sliding joint 18C configured as a
fluid tight seal between the two portions 18A and 18B when the
portions are disposed in a locked position. Alternatively, the
extendible wand 18 includes a locking mechanism to releasably lock
the first and the second portions 18A and 18B and to define a fluid
tight seal. The locking mechanism may include any of a variety of
locking mechanisms, including, but not limited to, a sliding joint,
a collet and O-ring combination, a cam and lever combination fitted
with O-rings, a screw-type fastener, a spring notch, and other
similar configurations.
[0053] As shown in FIG. 1, the handle 20 is connected to a second
end 18D of the extendible wand 18 and includes within its interior
a fluid reservoir 21 configured to contain a fluid, e.g., a
cleaning, coating, sealing, or drying fluid. The handle 20 further
includes a manual air pump 22 disposed along a terminal end of the
handle and in fluid communication with the reservoir 21 to deliver
or pump air into the reservoir 21. The pump 22 is slidably
connected to the handle 20 to permit the pump 22 to be actuated by
moving the pump into and out of the handle 20, as shown by arrow
400 in FIG. 1. The action of the pump 22 introduces air into the
reservoir 21 which pressurizes the interior of the reservoir 21
such that the reservoir 21 contains fluid under pressure. The
handle 20 further includes an actuating trigger 23 that, when
manual actuated, e.g., pulled, the trigger 23 enables an amount of
pressure to be released from the reservoir 21 and, as a
consequence, an amount of fluid to be expressed from the reservoir
21 into the internal channel of the extendible wand 18. The
invention is not limited in this respect and envisions other means
of pressurizing and expressing fluid from the fluid reservoir 21 of
the handle 20, as described below.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 7, the length L.sub.2 of the apparatus 10
may be further adjusted, e.g., lengthened, with the attachment of
one or more extension elements 30 via a quick disconnect coupling
32 along one end of the element 30 configured to removably connect
to the second end 18D of the extendible wand 18, and a quick
disconnect coupling 34 along another end of the element 30
configured to removably connect to a distal end 20A of the handle
20. The quick connect couplings 32 and 34 are configured as fluid
tight couplings.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 8, exemplary couplings are illustrated.
Any of the disconnect couplings 32 and 34 shown in FIG. 7 may be
configured as coupling 40 or 50. In addition, the second end 18D of
the extendible wand 18 and the distal end 20A of the handle 20
shown in FIG. 7 may be configured as coupling 45 or 55. The
couplings 40 and 50 include an O-ring fluid seal to configure the
couplings 40 and 50 as fluid tight joints or connections between
the extension element 30 and the extendible wand 18 and the handle
20. The invention is not so limited and anticipates that fluid
tight joints or connections between the extension element 30, the
extendible wand 18 and the handle 20 can be configured and achieved
with other designs including, but not limited to, elastomeric
scrapers, spring and elastomer sealing and other similar
configurations and devices.
[0056] The coupling 40 further includes one or more snap locks or
lock tabs 42 configured for quick release from complementary snap
locks 46 configured along the coupling 45. The coupling 50 further
includes screw threads 52 configured to mate with complementary
screw threads 56 along the coupling 55 to achieve a screw thread
seal. The invention is not limited to these configurations and
envisions the connection of the extension element 30 and the
extendible wand 18 or the handle 20 can be configured and achieved
with liquid tight screw connections, quick release catches, quick
release slide collars and other similar configurations and
devices.
[0057] As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the coupling 40 and 50 includes
an interior fluid channel or conduit 43 and 53 defined by the
coupling interior that is disposed in fluid communication with an
interior channel or conduit 47 and 57 of its complementary coupling
45 and 55 to permit the extension element 30 to internally receive
fluid from the reservoir 21 of the handle 20 and to channel fluid
to the internal channel of the extendible wand 18.
[0058] With further reference to FIG. 7, in another aspect, the
invention provides an apparatus 80 including the components
described above and in reference to FIGS. 1-6 including an
alternative handle 24. The handle 24 including an integrated fluid
pump 25 and a manually-actuated trigger 26 operatively coupled to
the fluid pump 25. As shown in the perspective view of an interior
of the handle 24 of FIG. 7, the fluid pump 25 is in fluid and
operative communication with a fluid reservoir 27 and is
operatively connected to a fluid pipe 28 disposed in contact with
fluid contained in the reservoir 27. The fluid pump 25
configuration is known and further details need not be disclosed
here. Actuation of the trigger 26, e.g., pulling trigger 26, causes
the fluid pump 25 to draw fluid from the fluid reservoir 27 into
the fluid pipe 28 and to express fluid from the fluid pipe 28
through the pump 25 and into the internal fluid supply channel
within the interior of the extendible wand 18, and, if connected,
within the interior(s) of one or more extension elements 30, to
ultimately supply the internal fluid channel 12C of the cleaning
head 12 with fluid. The fluid pump 25 is constructed and arranged
to express fluid from the fluid pipe 28 with pressure sufficient to
cause fluid to flow to the cleaning head 12.
[0059] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the apparatus 10 shown in FIGS.
1 and 7 may be removably connected to a remote fluid supply
container 60. In the preferred embodiment, the container 60 is
portable and its interior defines an internal reservoir 61 to
contain a volume of fluid to supply or refill the handle reservoir
21 and 27, such as, through a fluid tube 62. The fluid tube 62 is
connected at one end to an output port 63 defined in the container
21 and in fluid communication with the container reservoir 61, and
is connected at another end to an input port 64 defined in the
handle 20 and 24 and in fluid communication with the handle
reservoir 21 and 27. Each end of the fluid tube 62 and/or the input
and output ports 63 and 64 is configured with a quick connect
coupling constructed and arranged to release the fluid tube 62 and
to accomplish fluid tight seals at the ports 63 and 64. The
container 60 further includes a clip 65 to attach to, for instance,
a user's belt, to enable the container to be portable during use of
the apparatus 10. In addition, the container 60 includes a cap 66
to permit refilling the internal reservoir 61. In the preferred
embodiment, the container 60 defines a configuration, shape, and/or
profile that permit the container 60 to be comfortably disposed
proximate to a user's body during use of the apparatus 10. As shown
in FIGS. 9 and 10, the container 60 defines a concave surface 67.
The concave surface 67 is configured to help to promote portability
of the container 60 and to dispose the container 60 in close
proximity to a user of the apparatus 10 and/or to the user's body
during use of the apparatus 10, such as, when the container 60 is
attached or clipped to, for instance, the user's belt to enable the
container 60 to be carried by a user with comfort and ease.
[0060] Referring FIG. 11, in a further aspect, the invention
provides an apparatus 10 as shown in either FIG. 1 or FIG. 7
including an alternative handle 70. The handle 70 is solid and
includes an integrated pressurizing pump 25, as shown in FIG. 7,
and an actuating trigger 72. Actuation of the pump 25 is achieved
by manually actuating the trigger 72, which draws fluid from the
container 60 through the fluid tube 62 and into the internal fluid
supply channel of the extendible wand 18. In this embodiment, the
fluid supply is maintained solely by the container 60 in contrast
to the handle 21 and 24 including the internal reservoir 21 and
27.
[0061] Referring to FIG. 12, in another aspect, the invention
provides an apparatus 80 including the components of the apparatus
10 described above and in reference to FIGS. 1-11 with an
alternative fluid delivery system. The apparatus 80 includes, as an
alternative to the fluid channels or conduits defined by the
interiors of the extendible wand 18 and the one or more extension
elements 30, an external fluid supply tube 82 disposed external to
the fluid reservoir 27. The supply tube 82 is connected at one end
to an output port 84 defined in the handle 24 and in fluid
communication with the reservoir 27. The supply tube 82 is further
connected at another end to an input port 84 defined in the swivel
arm 14 and in fluid communication with the internal fluid supply
channel defined by the interior of the swivel arm 14 and with the
internal fluid channel 12C of the cleaning head 12. Each end of the
fluid supply tube 82 and/or each of the input and output ports 82
and 84, 3 and 64 are configured with quick connect couplings that
are constructed and arranged to releasably connect the supply tube
82 to the handle 24 and the swivel arm 14 and to accomplish fluid
tight seals between the supply tube 82 and the ports 63 and 64.
Alternatively, or additionally, the supply tube 82 may be connected
with the cleaning head 12 to supply fluid to the internal fluid
channel 12C. In this case, the cleaning head 12 would include an
input port, e.g., defined along a terminal end of the elongated
member, to releasably connect with the supply tube 82. The input
port may be configured with a quick connect coupling that is
constructed and arranged to releasably connect the supply tube 82
and to accomplish a fluid tight seal. Although the apparatus 10 and
the handle 24 shown in FIG. 7 is illustrated in FIG. 12 and
configured with the alternative fluid delivery system employing the
fluid supply tube 82, it is understood that the apparatus 10 with
the pump handle 20 shown in FIG. 1 may be similarly configured with
the alternative fluid delivery system employing the fluid supply
tube 82.
[0062] Referring to FIG. 13, the apparatus 10 and 80 described
above and with reference to FIGS. 1-12 may further include a second
lockable universal positioning joint 90 disposed between the
extendible wand 18 and the handle 20 and 24. The joint 90 is
constructed and arranged to releasably lock the extendible wand 18
and the handle 20 and 24 in any one of a multiple of positions
relative to one another and to permit the wand 18 and the handle 20
and 24 to pivot about the joint 90 when the joint 90 is in an
unlocked position. Similar to the universal positioning joint 16
located between the swivel arm 14 and the wand 18, the joint 90
enables a user of the apparatus 10 and 80 to articulate the handle
20 and 24 and the wand 18 relative to one another, as well as to
articulate the handle 20 and 24 and/or the wand 18 relative to the
cleaning head 12 to optimize their geometry. Alternatively, the
second universal joint 90 may be disposed anywhere along the length
L.sub.1 of the extendible wand 18.
[0063] The second joint 90, alone or in conjunction with the joint
16, permits the apparatus 10 and 80 to be configured in an
ergonomically safe and comfortable form factor that enables a user
to employ the apparatus 10 and 80 to, for instance, reach and
access window surfaces located relatively remotely from the user
and the handle 20 and 24. The apparatus 10 and 80 is also
configured to receive a second removable handle 95 constructed and
arranged to apply pressure or force to the apparatus 10 and 80 to
effect cleaning of window surfaces, e.g., located at relatively
long distances from the handle 20 and 24.
[0064] The second handle 95 is configured to be releasably
connected to the apparatus 10 and 80 via a collet 96 that is
configured to be slidably received by the extendible wand 18 and/or
the handle 20 and 24 to dispose the collet 96 along the apparatus
10 and 80 proximate to the positioning joint 90. The handle 95 may
be connected to the collet 96 via a screw-down connection to
releasably connect the handle 95 to the apparatus 10 and 80. Other
connections between the handle 95 and the collet 96 are envisioned.
The collet 96 may be configured with an adjustable diameter whereby
the collet 96 may be disposed along the apparatus 10 and 80 at
different positions relative to the positioning joint 90.
[0065] The handle 95 may also define a right angle grip or handle.
In this case, the right angle of the handle 95 helps to convey
pressure or force a user applies to the handle 95 and the apparatus
10 to the cleaning head 12, such that, the cleaning head 12
contacts and applies pressure or force to a surface substantially
consistently along at least a portion of its length in contact with
the surface.
[0066] Having thus described at least one illustrative aspect of
the invention, various alterations, modifications and improvements
will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Such alterations,
modifications and improvements are intended to be within the scope
and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description
is by way of example only and is not intended as limiting. The
invention's limit is defined only in the following claims and the
equivalents thereto.
* * * * *