U.S. patent application number 14/679577 was filed with the patent office on 2017-01-12 for electric utility vehicle.
The applicant listed for this patent is Dane Technologies, Inc.. Invention is credited to Andrew L. Dvorak, Daniel T. Johnson.
Application Number | 20170007090 14/679577 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46548833 |
Filed Date | 2017-01-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170007090 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Johnson; Daniel T. ; et
al. |
January 12, 2017 |
ELECTRIC UTILITY VEHICLE
Abstract
A utility vehicle can comprise a wheeled platform, a motor
coupled to the platform and configured to propel the platform, at
least one cleaning element coupled to the platform, wherein the at
least one cleaning element is movable between a collapsed position
and an expanded position, and one or more controls configured to
move the at least one cleaning element between the collapsed
position and the expanded position. The at least one cleaning
element can also be movable between a raised position and a lowered
position relative to the wheeled platform, and the one or more
controls can further be configured to move the at least one
cleaning element between the raised position and the lowered
position.
Inventors: |
Johnson; Daniel T.; (Medina,
MN) ; Dvorak; Andrew L.; (Minnetonka, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Dane Technologies, Inc. |
Brooklyn Park |
MN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
46548833 |
Appl. No.: |
14/679577 |
Filed: |
April 6, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13538763 |
Jun 29, 2012 |
8997905 |
|
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14679577 |
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61502771 |
Jun 29, 2011 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 11/10 20130101;
A47L 11/20 20130101; A47L 11/4013 20130101; A47L 11/4058 20130101;
A47L 11/4094 20130101; A47L 11/4091 20130101; A47L 11/4011
20130101; A47L 11/24 20130101; A47L 11/4055 20130101; A47L 11/4066
20130101; A47L 11/30 20130101; A47L 11/4061 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47L 11/30 20060101
A47L011/30; A47L 11/40 20060101 A47L011/40 |
Claims
1. A utility vehicle comprising: a platform; a motor coupled to the
platform and configured to propel the platform; at least one
cleaning element coupled to the platform, wherein the at least one
cleaning element is movable between a collapsed position and an
expanded position; and one or more controls configured to move the
at least one cleaning element between the collapsed position and
the expanded position.
2. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein the at least one
cleaning element is movable between a raised position and a lowered
position relative to the platform.
3. The utility vehicle of claim 2, wherein the one or more controls
are further configured to move the at least one cleaning element
between the raised position and the lowered position
4. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein when in the collapsed
position, a width of the at least one cleaning element is narrower
than a width of the platform.
5. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein the at least one
cleaning element is selected from the group consisting of: at least
one dry mop; at least one wet mop; at least one broom; and at least
one vacuum assembly.
6. The utility vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a second
platform configured to be removably coupled to the platform.
7. The utility vehicle of claim 6, wherein the second platform is
configured to carry at least one of a trash receptacle, a mop
bucket, a paper-product receptacle, and a cleaning-supplies
receptacle.
8. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein the platform includes a
seat configured for carrying a user.
9. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein the at least one
cleaning element is detachable from the platform.
10. The utility vehicle of claim 9, further comprising at least one
second cleaning element coupleable to the platform when the at
least one first cleaning element is detached.
11. An electric utility vehicle comprising: a wheeled platform; a
seat coupled to the platform for carrying a user; an electric motor
coupled to the platform and configured to propel the platform; a
pair of cleaning elements coupled to the platform, wherein the pair
of cleaning elements is movable between a raised position and a
lowered position, wherein the pair of cleaning elements is movable
between a collapsed position and an expanded position with respect
to each other; a first control configured to move the pair of
cleaning elements between the raised position and the lowered
position; and a second control configured to move the pair of
cleaning elements between the collapsed position and the expanded
position.
12. The electric utility vehicle of claim 11, further comprising a
wheeled cart configured to be removably coupled to the wheeled
platform.
13. The electric utility vehicle of claim 11, wherein the pair of
cleaning elements is detachable from the wheeled platform, the
electric utility vehicle further comprising a second pair of
cleaning elements coupleable to the wheeled platform when the at
least one first cleaning element is detached.
14. The electric utility vehicle of claim 13, wherein the first
pair of cleaning elements comprises one of a pair of mops or a pair
of brooms and the second pair of cleaning elements comprises the
other of the pair of mops or the pair of brooms.
15. The electric utility vehicle of claim 11, wherein the first
control is configured to move between a first position
corresponding to the raised position of the pair of cleaning
elements and a second position corresponding to the lowered
position of the pair of cleaning elements, further comprising a
mechanical linkage between the first control and the pair of
cleaning elements, the mechanical linkage comprising: a pair of
legs each coupled to a corresponding one of the pair of cleaning
elements; a mounting plate coupled to the pair of legs, the
mounting plate including a pivot point pivotally coupled to the
wheeled platform and a connection point; wherein the connection
point is mechanically coupled to the first control so that mounting
plate and the pair of cleaning elements are pivoted vertically
downward when the first control is moved to the second position and
so that the mounting plate and the pair of cleaning elements are
pivoted vertically upward when the first control is moved to the
first position.
16. The electric utility vehicle of claim 11, wherein the second
control is configured to move between a first position
corresponding to the collapsed position of the pair of cleaning
elements and a second position corresponding to the expanded
position of the pair of cleaning elements, further comprising a
mechanical linkage between the second control and the at least one
cleaning element, the mechanical linkage comprising: a pair of
legs, each coupled to a corresponding one of the pair of cleaning
elements, each leg including a pivot point coupled to the platform
and a connection point, wherein the connection point of each of the
pair of legs is mechanically coupled to the second control so that
the pair of cleaning elements are pivoted laterally outward when
the second control is moved to the second position and so that the
pair of cleaning elements are pivoted laterally inward when the
second control is moved to the first position.
17. A system comprising: a utility vehicle including a platform and
a motor to propel the platform; a first assembly of a first set of
one or more cleaning elements configured to be coupled at a first
location of the wheeled platform; a second assembly of a second set
of one or more cleaning elements configured to be coupled at the
first location of the wheeled platform; and a first mechanism
configured to move one or more cleaning elements coupled to the
wheeled platform between a collapsed position and an expanded
position.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the first set of one or more
cleaning elements comprise a first type of cleaning elements and
the second set of one or more cleaning elements comprise a second
type of cleaning element.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the first type of cleaning
element comprises a first one of a dry mop, a wet mop, a broom, or
a vacuum assembly and the second type of cleaning element comprises
a second one of the dry mop, the wet mop, the broom, or the vacuum
assembly.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application is a continuation of and claims the
benefit of priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/538,763,
entitled "ELECTRIC UTILITY VEHICLE", filed on Jun. 29, 2012, which
claims the benefit of priority, under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(e), to
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/502,771, entitled
"QUICKLEEN ELECTRIC UTILITY MACHINE," filed on Jun. 29, 2011, each
of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The use of cleaning elements, such as a mop, a broom, or a
vacuum, for janitorial services is well known. For a large
facility, such as a large shopping center, an airport, a factory, a
distribution center, or a school, large cleaning elements are often
used to allow for cleaning of relatively large surface areas. The
mops or brooms typically must be manually pushed by a janitor or
other cleaning personnel. Vacuum assemblies can be motor-driven,
but are typically operated by a user pushing or walking behind the
vacuum assembly. Moreover, the cleaning element or elements must be
transported, usually manually transported, from a storage location
to a location that needs to be cleaned.
SUMMARY
[0003] This disclosure describes a multi-purpose, multi-mode
utility vehicle that can be used to rapidly transport one or more
cleaning elements, such as mops, dry mops, brooms, and vacuum
assemblies, and to deploy and use the one or more cleaning
elements. The platform can also be configured to carry or tow a
second platform, such as a janitorial cart, which can carry other
components that can be useful for cleaning or other janitorial
work. For example, the janitorial cart can carry at least one of a
mop bucket, a trash receptacle, a paper-products receptacle, and a
cleaning-supply receptacle. The utility vehicle can allow a user to
dry mop, broom, or vacuum large areas; collect trash, distribute
cleaning supplies; or carry a mop and bucket. Numerous other
capabilities can also be incorporated into or can be made
compatible with the utility vehicle.
[0004] In an example, a utility vehicle comprises a platform, a
motor coupled to the platform and configured to propel the
platform, at least one cleaning element coupled to the platform,
wherein the at least one cleaning element is movable between a
collapsed position and an expanded position, and one or more
controls configured to move the at least one cleaning element
between the collapsed position and the expanded position.
[0005] In an example, an electric utility vehicle comprises a
wheeled platform, a seat coupled to the platform for carrying a
user, an electric motor coupled to the platform and configured to
propel the platform, a pair of cleaning elements coupled to the
platform, wherein the pair of cleaning elements are movable between
a raised position and a lowered position, wherein the pair of
cleaning elements are movable between a collapsed position and an
expanded position with respect to each other, a first control
configured to move the pair of cleaning elements between the raised
position and the lowered position, and a second control configured
to move the pair of cleaning elements between the collapsed
position and the expanded position.
[0006] In an example, a system comprises a utility vehicle
including a platform and a motor to propel the platform, a first
assembly of a first set of one or more cleaning elements configured
to be coupled at a first location of the wheeled platform, a second
assembly of a second set of one or more cleaning elements
configured to be coupled at the first location of the wheeled
platform, and a first mechanism configured to move one or more
cleaning elements coupled to the wheeled platform between a
collapsed position and an expanded position.
[0007] These and other examples and features of the present systems
and methods will be set forth in part in the following Detailed
Description. This Summary is intended to provide an overview of the
present subject matter, and is not intended to provide an exclusive
or exhaustive explanation. The Detailed Description below is
included to provide further information about the present systems
and methods.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] In the drawings, like numerals can be used to describe
similar elements throughout the several views. Like numerals having
different letter suffixes can be used to represent different views
of similar elements. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of
example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments
discussed in the present document.
[0009] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example electric utility
vehicle.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a top view of the example electric utility
vehicle.
[0011] FIG. 3 is an isometric perspective view of the example
electric utility vehicle.
[0012] FIGS. 4A and 4B are front perspective views of example
cleaning elements, such as dry mops, in a closed or retracted
position and in an open or expanded position, respectively.
[0013] FIGS. 5A and 5B are side perspective views of the example
cleaning elements in the retracted position and the expanded
position, respectively, and a control, such as a pedal, that can
move the cleaning elements between the retracted position and the
expanded position.
[0014] FIGS. 6A and 6B are side views of the cleaning elements in a
raised position and a lowered position, respectively, and a
control, such as a pedal, that can move the cleaning elements
between the lowered position and the raised position.
[0015] FIGS. 7A and 7B are front perspective views of the example
cleaning elements in the raised position and the lowered position,
respectively, and the example control that can move the cleaning
elements between the lowered position and the raised position.
[0016] FIG. 8 is a side view of an example electric utility vehicle
with an example detachable set of cleaning elements.
[0017] FIGS. 9A and 9B are side views of a janitorial cart coupled
to a back side of the electric utility vehicle.
[0018] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the example janitorial
cart holding a mop bucket and a trash receptacle.
[0019] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the example janitorial
cart holding a large trash receptacle.
[0020] FIGS. 12A and 12B are side views of an example supplementary
cart coupled to the electric utility vehicle.
[0021] FIG. 13 is a series of perspective views showing the removal
of a first set of cleaning elements and the mounting of a second
set of cleaning elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] An electric utility vehicle is disclosed, and, more
particularly, an electric utility vehicle having one or more
deployable cleaning elements, such as one or more mops, one or more
brooms, or one or more vacuum assemblies, coupled to the electric
utility vehicle. The one or more cleaning elements can be
detachably coupled to a wheeled platform of the electric utility
vehicle, such as on a front end of the vehicle, so that one or more
first cleaning elements can be removed and replaced with one or
more second cleaning elements. For example, a set of dry mops can
initially be coupled to the electric utility vehicle, which can
then be removed and a set of brooms or a vacuum assembly can be
coupled to the electric utility vehicle. Similarly, a replacement
set of dry mops, brooms, a vacuum assembly, or other cleaning
elements can be easily installed onto the electric utility
vehicle.
[0023] The one or more cleaning elements can be easily deployable
by a user of the electric utility vehicle. For example, the one or
more cleaning elements can be movable between a raised position,
e.g., an undeployed position, and a lowered position, e.g., a
deployed position. When in the raised position, the electric
utility vehicle can be moved to a location to be cleaned, where the
one or more cleaning elements can be deployed into the lowered
position to allow for cleaning of the location. One or more
controls can be included on the electric utility vehicle that can
effectuate deploying the cleaning elements from the raised position
to the lowered position, and vice versa.
[0024] The one or more cleaning elements can also be adjustable so
that an effective width of the one or more cleaning elements can be
changed depending on the circumstances of use or the environment
that the electric utility vehicle is in. In an example, the one or
more cleaning elements can be moved between a collapsed position
and an expanded position. When in the collapsed position, the
effective width of the one or more cleaning elements can be narrow
enough for the one or more cleaning elements to fit through tight
spaces, such as through a doorway or a narrow passageway. When in
the expanded position, the effective width of the one or more
cleaning elements can be selected to maximize the electric utility
vehicle's effective cleaning area. The adjustability of the
effective width of the one or more cleaning elements can also allow
a user to more easily maneuver around obstacles when cleaning One
or more controls can be included on the electric utility vehicle
that can effectuate moving the one or more cleaning elements
between the collapsed position and the expanded position.
[0025] The electric utility vehicle can also be configured to
receive or be coupled to one or more additional components, such as
a janitorial cart coupled to a back end of the electric utility
vehicle. The janitorial cart can be carried by the electric utility
vehicle or towed behind the electric utility vehicle. In an
example, the janitorial cart can be configured to carry other
cleaning implements that can be useful to a user, such as a mop and
mop bucket, a trash receptacle, paper products, or cleaning
supplies. The cart can be releasably coupled to the electric
utility vehicle so that the cart can be used independently of the
machine.
[0026] The electric utility vehicle can be configured to be ridden
by a user, such as with a seat, so that the user and the electric
utility vehicle can be rapidly deployed to a cleaning location.
Thus, the electric utility vehicle can improve efficiency by
enabling a user to safely and quickly travel a significant
distance, while also carrying one or more cleaning elements, and if
desired other supplies. The speed of using the electric utility
vehicle can help the user to more efficiently maintain the
appearance of a site and can reduce the risk of a customer or team
member slip-and-fall event. In addition, the electric utility
vehicle can make scheduled cleaning more productive. Furthermore, a
user can carry out several tasks at the same time, allowing the
user to complete a series of tasks with increased efficiency.
[0027] FIGS. 1-3 show several views of an example utility vehicle
10. The utility vehicle 10 can include a platform 12 which can take
any form that can be useful for a user, such as a motorized cart as
shown in FIGS. 1-3. The platform 12 can be a wheeled platform 12
comprising wheels that facilitate movement of the platform 12, as
shown in FIGS. 1-3. Structures other than wheels can be used to
facilitate movement of the platform 12, such as tracks or belts and
the like. A motor 14 can be coupled to the platform 12, such as
within a housing 16 of the wheeled platform 12. In an example, the
motor 14 can comprise an electric motor that can powered by
electricity, e.g., from battery power or DC power. For the sake of
simplicity, the remainder of this disclosure will refer to the
utility vehicle 10 as an electric utility vehicle 10. However, a
person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the
utility vehicle 10 is not limited to electric power. Other suitable
sources of power can include gasoline, propane, and the like.
[0028] The electric utility vehicle 10 can include one or more
features that allow a user to clean an area. For example, a trash
bin 19 can be coupled to the platform 12, such as to a front end 17
of the platform 12, as shown in FIGS. 1-3, or to a back end 18. One
or more cleaning elements 20 can be coupled to the platform 12,
such as to the front end 17 or to the back end 18. Each cleaning
element 20 can comprise a wet mop, a dry mop, a broom, a vacuum
assembly, or any other structure that can be used to clean a
surface, such as a floor, the ground, a sidewalk, a parking lot
surface, and the like. As described in more detail below, the one
or more cleaning elements 20 can be movable, such as between a
collapsed position and an expanded position or between a
non-deployed or raised position and a deployed or lowered position.
The movability of the cleaning elements 20 can provide for easier
maneuverability of the electric utility vehicle 10 when the
cleaning elements 20 are not being used to clean, or when cleaning
an area with one or more obstacles that can need to be negotiated.
The electric utility vehicle 10 can include one or more controls
for moving the cleaning elements 20. One or more of the controls
can also be configured for moving the platform 12, such as to
control the motor 14.
[0029] In the examples shown in FIGS. 1-3, the wheeled platform 12
of the electric utility vehicle 10 can be configured as a cart that
can be ridden by a user. For the sake of brevity and simplicity,
the wheeled platform 12 will be referred to herein as a cart 12 or
a wheeled cart 12. However, the wheeled platform 12 is not limited
to a cart configuration. As shown in the examples of FIGS. 1-3, the
cart 12 can include a seat 22 configured for carrying a user while
the electric utility vehicle 10 moves along the ground.
[0030] If the electric utility vehicle 10 includes controls, such
as to control the motor 14 or to control the cleaning elements 20,
the controls can be accessible by a user when sitting on the seat
22, such as by being reachable and controllable by the user's hands
or feet. The electric utility vehicle 10 can include one or more
motor controls 24 that can be manipulated by a user, such as a user
sitting on the seat 22. The motor controls 24 can be positioned to
be substantially directly in front of the user while sitting on the
seat 22 so that the user can operate the motor controls 24 with his
or her hands. In an example, the motor controls 24 can include one
or more handles 26 that can be grasped by a user to steer the
electric utility vehicle 10, such as by controlling a steering
mechanism that turns one or more wheels of the wheeled cart 12. The
motor controls 24 can also include one or more directional controls
28A, 28B, such as a first lever 28A that can cause the motor 14 to
move the electric utility vehicle 10 in a forward direction and a
second lever 28B that can cause the motor 14 to move the electric
utility vehicle 10 in a rearward direction.
[0031] As described above, the one or more cleaning elements 20 can
be movable to provide for maneuverability of the electric utility
vehicle 10, such as when cleaning an area that includes obstacles
or a narrow profile. FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B show front
perspective views (FIGS. 4A and 4B) and side perspective views
(FIGS. 5A and 5B) of a pair of cleaning elements 20, in this case
dry mops, being moved between a closed or collapsed position (FIGS.
4A and 5A) and an open or expanded position (FIGS. 4B and 5B). In
the example shown in the figures, each of a pair of cleaning
elements 20 are arranged in a substantially parallel, side-by-side
arrangement when in the collapsed position, and are opened
outwardly to define an angle .theta. relative to each other when in
the expanded position. The angle .theta. can be an acute angle or
an obtuse angle.
[0032] The collapsed position can allow the electric utility
vehicle 10 to be more easily maneuvered such as through a narrow
passageway or within a narrow space between obstacles. In an
example as shown in FIG. 4A, the cleaning elements 20 can have a
contracted-position lateral width W.sub.CP that is the same or
narrower than a width W.sub.Cart of the cart 12 (FIG. 2) when in
the collapsed position so that the cleaning elements 20 can fit
into any space that is accessible by the cart 12. The cart width
W.sub.Cart can be less than the width of a standard doorway so that
the cart 12 and the cleaning elements 20 (when in the collapsed
position) can fit through doorways. In an example, the cart width
W.sub.Cart can be less than 48 inches (1.2 meters), less than 36
inches (0.91 meters), less than 32 inches (0.81 meters), less than
30 inches (0.76 meters), or less than 28 inches (0.71 meters).
[0033] The expanded position of the cleaning elements 20 can
provide for a large cleaning width of the cleaning elements 20. As
noted above, in an example, a pair cleaning elements 20 can be
opened to an angle .theta.. In an example, angle .theta. can be
between 0 degrees and 180 degrees, inclusive, for example between
45 degrees and 179 degrees, inclusive, such as between 90 degrees
and 170 degrees, inclusive. In an example, the angle .theta. is an
obtuse angle of between about 90 degrees and about 180 degrees,
inclusive, for example between about 120 degrees and about 179
degrees, inclusive, such as between about 150 degrees and about 170
degrees, for example about 150 degrees, about 155 degrees, about
160 degrees, about 165 degrees, about 166 degrees, about 167
degrees, about 168 degrees, about 169 degrees, about 170 degrees,
about 171 degrees, about 172 degrees, about 173 degrees, about 174
degrees, about 175 degrees, about 176 degrees, about 177 degrees,
about 178 degrees, about 179 degrees, or about 180 degrees. As
shown in FIG. 4B, each cleaning element 20 can have a length
L.sub.CE that is selected for the area to be cleaned. In an
example, the length L.sub.CE of each cleaning element 20 can be
between about 24 inches (0.61 meters) and about 50 inches (1.2
meters). As further shown in FIG. 4B, when in the expanded
position, the cleaning elements 20 can be configured to have a
width W.sub.EP of between about 40 inches (1.2 meters) and about
100 inches (2.54 meters), such as about 48 inches (1.2 meters),
about 50 inches (1.27 meters), about 55 inches (1.40 meters), about
60 inches (1.52 meters), about 66 inches (1.68 meters), about 70
inches (1.78 meters), about 72 inches (1.83 meters), about 75
inches (1.90 meters), about 78 inches (1.98 meters), about 80
inches (2.03 meters), about 84 inches (2.13 meters), or about 90
inches (2.29 meters).
[0034] The electric utility vehicle 10 can include one or more
controls 30 that are operable to allow movement of the one or more
cleaning elements 20 between the collapsed position and the
expanded position, and vice versa. In the example, these one or
more controls 30 can comprise a pedal 30 that can be actuated by
user, such as with the foot of a user sitting on the seat 22. The
pedal 30 can move between a first position associated with the
collapsed position of the cleaning elements 20 (see, e.g., FIG.
4A), and a second position associated with the expanded position of
the cleaning elements 20 (see, e.g., FIG. 4B). When a user moves
the pedal 30 from the first position to the second position, such
as by pulling on the pedal 30 or by pressing on the pedal 30 to
engage a release and return mechanism that can move the pedal 30 to
the second position, a mechanism can move the cleaning elements 20
from the collapsed position to the expanded position. When the user
is ready to move the cleaning elements 20 back to the collapsed
position, such as when he or she is done cleaning an area with the
cleaning elements 20, the user can move the pedal 30 from the
second position to the first position, such as by pressing down on
the pedal 30 with the user's foot, to return the pedal 30 to the
first position so that the mechanism can move the cleaning elements
20 to the collapsed position.
[0035] In an example, the mechanism that moves the cleaning
elements 20 between the collapsed position and the expanded
position can include one or more mechanical linkages between the
pedal 30 and the cleaning elements 20. Each cleaning element 20 can
be coupled to a leg 32, as described below. Each leg 32 can be
pivotally coupled to the cart 12, such as at a pivot point 34, so
that each leg 32 can pivot laterally outward and inward. For
example, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the legs 32 can be coupled at
pivot points 34 so that each leg 32 can pivot generally
horizontally between the collapsed position and the expanded
position. One or more mechanical linkages can connect the pedal 30
to a connection point 36 on each of the legs 32. As the pedal 30 is
moved from the first position to the second position, the
mechanical linkages can cause the connection points 36 to move
laterally outward. The lateral outward movement of the connection
points 36 and the pivotal coupling of the leg 32 at the pivot
points 34 can cause the distal ends of the legs 32 to pivot outward
and move the cleaning elements 20 from the collapsed position to
the expanded position. Returning the pedal 30 to the first position
can cause the mechanical linkages to move the connection points 36
laterally inwardly and pivot the distal ends of the legs 32 and the
cleaning elements 20 from the expanded position to the collapsed
position. In an example, shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the pivot points
34 and the connection points 36 can be included on a pivotable
mounting plate 38 that is pivotably coupled to the cart 12. As
described in more detail below, the mounting plate 38, and thus the
cleaning elements coupled to the mounting plate 38, can be moved
between a raised position and a lowered position.
[0036] In an example, the cleaning elements 20 can be manually
movable between the collapsed position and the expanded position.
For example, an electric utility vehicle could omit the pedal 30,
and a user could manually adjust the cleaning elements 20 to the
desired position.
[0037] Although FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B only show the cleaning
elements 20 in two positions, e.g., a fully collapsed position and
a fully expanded position, the cleaning elements 20 or the one or
more controls 30 can be configured to move to more than one
position. For example, the cleaning elements 20 can be configured
to be movable between a fully collapsed position and a fully
expanded position with one or more positions therebetween of
varying degrees of collapse or expansion. In an example, the
cleaning elements 20 or the one or more controls 30 can be
configured to move to one or more discrete positions between the
fully collapsed position and the fully expanded position, wherein
each discrete position can correspond to a different width W.sub.EP
of the cleaning elements 20 and a different angle .theta. between
the cleaning elements 20. In another example, the cleaning elements
20 or the one or more controls 30 can be configured to continuously
move between a fully-collapsed position and a fully-expanded
position so that a user can select and fine tune the width W.sub.EP
of the cleaning elements 20 while cleaning
[0038] As described above, the one or more cleaning elements 20 can
be movable between a deployed or lowered position and an undeployed
or raised position. FIGS. 6A, 6B, 7A, and 7B show side views (FIGS.
6A and 6B) and front perspective views (FIGS. 7A and 7B) of the
pair of cleaning elements 20 being moved between an undeployed or
raised position (FIGS. 6A and 7A) and a deployed or lowered
position (FIGS. 6B and 7B). As shown in the figures, the one or
more cleaning elements 20 can be pivotably coupled to the cart 12
so that the cleaning elements 20 can be pivoted from being
horizontal or substantially horizontal when in the lowered position
to vertical or substantially vertical when in the raised
position.
[0039] The movability of the cleaning elements 20 between the
raised position and the lowered position can allow the electric
utility vehicle 10 more flexibility during use. For example, a user
can store the electric utility vehicle 10 with the cleaning
elements 20 in the raised position so that the electric utility
vehicle 10 takes up a smaller footprint. Similarly, the cleaning
elements 20 can be kept in the raised position when the electric
utility vehicle 10 is being transported to or from a cleaning site
so that the electric utility vehicle 10 can be more maneuverable.
The cleaning elements 20 can then be easily and rapidly deployed by
moving the cleaning elements 20 from the raised position to the
lowered position.
[0040] The electric utility vehicle 10 can include one or more
controls 40 to move the one or more cleaning elements 20 from the
raised position to the lowered position, and vice versa. The one or
more controls 40 can comprise a pedal 40 that can be actuated by a
user, such as with the foot of a user sitting on the seat 22. The
pedal 40 can move between a first position associated with the
raised position of the cleaning elements 20 (FIGS. 6A and 7A), and
a second position associated with the lowered position of the
cleaning elements 20 (FIGS. 6B and 7B). When a user moves the pedal
40 from the first position to the second position, such as by
pulling the pedal 40 back with the user's foot or by pressing on
the pedal 40 to engage a release and return mechanism that can move
the pedal 40 to the second position. A mechanism can move the
cleaning elements 20 from the raised position to the lowered
position. When the user is ready to move the cleaning elements 20
back to the raised position, such as when he or she is done
cleaning an area with the cleaning elements 20, the user can move
the pedal 40 from the second position to the first position, such
as by pushing on the pedal 40 with the user's foot.
[0041] In an example, the mechanism that moves the cleaning
elements 20 between the raised position and the lower position can
include one or more mechanical linkages between the pedal 40 and
the cleaning elements 20. . Each cleaning element 20 can be coupled
to a leg 32, and the legs 32 can be pivotally coupled to the cart
12, such as at a pivot point 42, so that the legs 32 can pivot
vertically upward and downward. One or more mechanical linkages 44
can connect the pedal 40 to a connection point, such as the
connection point 46 on the mounting plate 38 (best seen in FIG.
6B). As the pedal 40 is moved from the first position to the second
position, the mechanical linkage 44 can cause the connection point
46 to move forward and vertically downward. The forward and
downward movement of the connection point 46 and the pivotal
coupling of the mounting plate 38 at the pivot point 42 can cause
the mounting plate 38 and the legs 32 to pivot vertically downward
and move the cleaning elements 20 from the raised position to the
lowered position. Returning the pedal 40 to the first position can
cause the mechanical linkage 44 to move the connection point 46
rearward and upward and to pivot the mounting plate 38 and the legs
32 to move the cleaning elements 20 from the lowered position to
the raised position.
[0042] In an example, the cleaning elements 20 can be manually
movable between the raised position and the lowered position. For
example, an electric utility vehicle could omit the pedal 40, and a
user could manually adjust the cleaning elements 20 to the desired
position.
[0043] The cleaning elements 20 can be detachably coupled to the
wheeled cart 12 so that a user can remove a first set of one or
more cleaning elements 20 and replace it with a second set of one
or more cleaning elements 20. The second set of cleaning elements
20 can be a replacement set of the same type as the first set of
cleaning elements 20, such as to replace damaged or worn out
cleaning elements 20. The second set of cleaning elements 20 can
also be of a different type of cleaning element than the first set
of cleaning elements 20 so that a user can change from one type of
cleaning to another. For example, the first set of cleaning
elements 20 can be a set of dry mops and the second set of cleaning
elements 20 can be one or more wet mops, one or more brooms, one or
more brushes, or one or more vacuum assemblies.
[0044] FIG. 8 shows a set of cleaning elements 20, such as a set of
dry mops, which is detached from the cart 12. The cleaning elements
20 can include one or more coupling structures that can enable
coupling between the cart 12 and the set of cleaning elements 20.
In an example, the coupling structures can include a coupling frame
48 having one or more arms 50 that can engage with the cart 12. The
arms 50 can engage with a corresponding mating structure or
structures of the cart 12, such as one or more fasteners 52, to
secure the set of cleaning elements 20 to the cart 12. The
fasteners 52 can include one or more of screws, bolts, brads,
nails, quick-release latches, and the like.
[0045] An assembly of dry mops that can be used as the cleaning
elements 20 is sold as part number 100-379 by Dane Technologies,
Inc., Brooklyn Park, Minn., USA. An assembly of brooms that can be
used as the cleaning elements 20 is sold as part number 100-399 by
Dane Technologies, Inc. However, other dry mops or brooms can be
used. Examples of specific cleaning elements 20 that can be used
with the utility vehicle 10 of this disclosure include the dry mops
sold as part number 7305T38 by McMaster-Carr Supply Co., Elmhust,
Ill., USA, and the brooms sold as part number B20436 by
Proline.
[0046] As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the
art, a vacuum assembly can be coupled to an end of the cart 12,
such as the front end 17, in a manner similar to that in which dry
mop cleaning elements 20 or broom cleaning elements 20 can be
coupled to the cart 12, such as to the front end 17 as shown in
FIGS. 1-3, or a vacuum assembly can be coupled to the cart 12 on a
bottom, a side, or a rear of the cart 12 so that the vacuum
assembly can be mounted separate from dry mops, mops, brooms,
brushes, and other cleaning elements. In an example, one or more
components of a vacuum assembly, such as a vacuum motor, a vacuum
fan, vacuum brushes, and the like, can be mounted to a base 54 of
the cart 12.
[0047] The electric utility vehicle 10 can also include means or
structures for mounting or coupling a second platform to the cart
12. In an example, the wheeled cart 12 can include a mounting
structure 60 at a location of the cart 12 that is different from
the location where the one or more cleaning elements 20 are coupled
to the cart 12. For example, the one or more cleaning elements 20
can be coupled to a first location of the cart 12, such as at the
front end 17, while the mounting structure 60 can be located at a
second location of the cart 12, such as at the rear end 18.
[0048] As shown in FIGS. 1, 9A, and 9B, the mounting structure 60
can include one or more hooks 62 that can engage a second platform
70. The second platform 70 can be another wheeled cart, such as a
janitorial cart 70 that can be configured to carry one or more
combinations of objects that can be useful to a user. As shown in
FIG. 9B, the mounting structure 60 can hold the janitorial cart 70
in an elevated position relative to the cart 12 so that when the
janitorial cart 70 is coupled with the mounting structure 60, the
janitorial cart 70 can be lifted off the ground.
[0049] In an example shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the mounting
structure 60 can be raised and lowered so that the janitorial cart
70 can be coupled with the mounting structure 60 without the user
having to lift the janitorial cart 70 off the ground. FIG. 9A shows
the mounting structure 60 in a lowered position so that the hooks
62 are in a position to receive the janitorial cart 70. The
janitorial cart 70 can be rolled into position so that a bar 72 or
other mating structure on the janitorial cart 70 can be in position
to be engaged by the hooks 62, such as in one or more mating
grooves 64 in each hook 62. The janitorial cart 70 can be secured
to the mounting structure 60, such as with clamps or other securing
means, so that the janitorial cart 70 can be securely fastened as
the mounting structure 60 moves to the raised position. A user can
then move the mounting structure 60 to a raised position in order
to lift the janitorial cart 70 upward, as shown in FIG. 9B. In an
example, a lever 74 can be linked to the mounting structure 60 in
order to move the mounting structure 60 to the raised position. In
the example shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the lever 74 is coupled to
the hooks 62 in a fixed manner so that the hooks 62 pivot as the
lever 74 is pivoted by a user. As the lever 74 and hooks 62 pivot,
the hooks 62 can lift the janitorial cart 70.
[0050] The janitorial cart 70 can be a general purpose cart that
can carry one or more objects that can be useful for a user of the
utility vehicle 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, an example of
a janitorial cart 70A can include a first location for holding or
securing a mop bucket 76 and a mop 78 and a second location for
holding or securing a receptacle 80, such as a trash receptacle, a
paper-products receptacle, or a cleaning-supplies receptacle. The
janitorial cart 70 can also be configured to hold other cleaning
implements, such as a broom 82. FIG. 11 shows another example of a
janitorial cart 70B that can hold a large receptacle, such as a
large trash receptacle 84. Other configurations of the janitorial
cart 70 can be envisioned by a person of ordinary skill in the
art.
[0051] In another example, an electric utility vehicle 10 can be
configured to tow a second platform behind the cart 12. FIGS. 12A
and 12B show an example cart 12 that includes a hitch 86 located on
the back end 18 of the cart 12. The hitch 86 can be configured to
couple to a wheeled supplementary cart 88 that can be towed behind
the main cart 12. The supplementary cart 88 can be used to
transport large supplies, such as cleaning supplies or paper
products. The hitch 86 can be configured to be raised or lowered.
In an example, the hitch 86 can be coupled the mounting structure
60 so that the lever 74 can be used to move the hitch 64 from a
lowered position, as in FIG. 12A, to a raised position, as in FIG.
12B. As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the hitch 86 can include a bar
90 that can be engaged in the grooves 64 of the hooks 62 so that
the hitch 86 be lifted by the hooks 62, which in turn are moved by
the lever 74, as described above. As a user pivots the lever 74,
the hooks 62 can lift the hitch 86, which can lift the
supplementary cart 88.
[0052] FIG. 13 shows an example process of removing a first set of
one or more cleaning elements 20A and replacing them with a second
set of one or more cleaning elements 20B. In the example shown in
FIG. 13, the first set of cleaning elements 20A comprises a set of
dry mops 20A and the second set of cleaning elements 20B comprises
a set of brooms 20B. As shown, each cleaning element 20A, 20B can
be coupled to an arm 32, which in turn can be coupled to the
wheeled cart 12, as described above. A bracket 92 can be located at
a distal end of each arm 32, wherein the bracket 92 can be
configured to couple with a mating bracket 94A, 94B of a
corresponding cleaning element 20A, 20B. The bracket 92 can include
one or more fastening structures for securing to the mating bracket
94A, 94B. In an example, the fastening structure can include one or
more spring-loaded detents 96 that can be received by a structure
in the mating bracket 94A, 94B, such as an opening 98A, 98B in the
mating bracket 94A, 94B.
[0053] In the example process shown in FIG. 13, each dry mop 20A
can be removed from a corresponding arm 32 by depressing the
detents 96 to remove them from the openings 98A and moving the
bracket 92 out of engagement with the mating bracket 94A of the dry
mop 20A. Each broom 20B can be coupled with a corresponding arm 32
by positioning the mating bracket 94B relative to the bracket 92
and moving the bracket 92 into the mating bracket 94B until the
detents 96 engage the openings 98B.
[0054] The above Detailed Description is intended to be
illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described
examples (or one or more elements thereof) can be used in
combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as
by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above
description. Also, various features or elements can be grouped
together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be
interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is
essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter can lie in
less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus,
the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed
Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate
embodiment. The scope of the invention should be determined with
reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of
equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the event of
inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so
incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.
[0055] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is
common in patent documents, to include one or more than one,
independent of any other instances or usages of "at least one" or
"one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to
a nonexclusive or, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B
but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In this
document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the
plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and
"wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and
"comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article,
composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in
addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still
deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the
following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc.
are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical
requirements on their objects.
[0056] Method examples described herein can be machine or
computer-implemented, at least in part. Some examples can include a
computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with
instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform
methods or method steps as described in the above examples. An
implementation of such methods or method steps can include code,
such as microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language
code, or the like. Such code can include computer readable
instructions for performing various methods. The code may form
portions of computer program products. Further, in an example, the
code can be tangibly stored on one or more volatile,
non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media,
such as during execution or at other times. Examples of these
tangible computer-readable media can include, but are not limited
to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical disks
(e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes,
memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read only
memories (ROMs), and the like.
[0057] The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R.
.sctn.1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature
of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding
that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning
of the claims.
* * * * *