U.S. patent application number 16/788342 was filed with the patent office on 2020-08-13 for floor cleaning apparatus with cleaning fluid delivery system.
The applicant listed for this patent is BISSELL Inc.. Invention is credited to Colin J. Bloemendaal, Danielle Boils, Xinliang Feng, Feng Chun Li, Guoshun Wang, Jincheng Xia, JianJun Yu.
Application Number | 20200253447 16/788342 |
Document ID | 20200253447 / US20200253447 |
Family ID | 1000004651731 |
Filed Date | 2020-08-13 |
Patent Application | download [pdf] |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20200253447 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wang; Guoshun ; et
al. |
August 13, 2020 |
FLOOR CLEANING APPARATUS WITH CLEANING FLUID DELIVERY SYSTEM
Abstract
The present disclosure provides a sweeper that includes a fluid
delivery system for providing cleaning fluid to a floor surface.
The sweeper can be configured to perform multiple cleaning
functions, including wet mopping and dry sweeping. The sweeper can
have a collection cup and a microfiber brushroll which mechanically
propels dirt and liquid from the surface to be cleaned into the
collection cup.
Inventors: |
Wang; Guoshun; (Shenzhen,
CN) ; Xia; Jincheng; (Shenzhen, CN) ; Feng;
Xinliang; (Shenzhen, CN) ; Li; Feng Chun;
(Shenzhen, CN) ; Yu; JianJun; (Foshan City,
CN) ; Boils; Danielle; (Saint Joseph, MI) ;
Bloemendaal; Colin J.; (Grand Rapids, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BISSELL Inc. |
Grand Rapids |
MI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004651731 |
Appl. No.: |
16/788342 |
Filed: |
February 12, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62804342 |
Feb 12, 2019 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 13/22 20130101;
A47L 11/24 20130101; A47L 11/4005 20130101; A47L 11/4016 20130101;
A47L 11/4041 20130101; A47L 11/4083 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47L 11/40 20060101
A47L011/40; A47L 11/24 20060101 A47L011/24; A47L 13/22 20060101
A47L013/22 |
Claims
1. A sweeper for cleaning a floor surface, comprising: a housing
adapted to move along a surface to be cleaned, the housing having a
brush chamber and an inlet opening configured to be adjacent the
surface to be cleaned as the housing moves across a surface; a
fluid delivery system including a supply tank configured to store
cleaning fluid and a fluid distributor configured to apply cleaning
fluid to the surface to be cleaned; a collection cup rearward of
the inlet opening and the brush chamber, and removably mounted to
the housing; a brushroll in the brush chamber mounted in the
housing for rotation about an axis, a portion of the brushroll
projecting through the inlet opening to sweep the surface to be
cleaned, the brushroll having a sweeping medium comprising
microfiber material capable of absorbing liquid, the brushroll
configured to mechanically propel dirt and liquid from the surface
to be cleaned into the collection cup; and a brushroll motor
drivingly connected to the brushroll for rotation of the brushroll
about the axis; wherein the collection cup comprises an entrance
opening and a collection chamber that is in fluid communication
with the brush chamber via the entrance opening, whereby dirt and
liquid mechanically propelled through the entrance opening by the
brushroll are collected within the collection chamber defined by
the collection cup.
2. The sweeper of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises opposing
lateral sides, and the collection cup is removable from the housing
through one of the opposing lateral side of the housing for
emptying.
3. The sweeper of claim 1, comprising a pocket in which the
collection cup is mounted, wherein the housing comprises opposing
lateral sides and the pocket is accessible through one of the
opposing lateral sides, wherein the collection cup is slidable
through the one of the opposing lateral sides to remove the
collection cup from the pocket.
4. The sweeper of claim 1, comprising a battery mounted to the
housing and electrically connected to the brushroll motor.
5. The sweeper of claim 4, comprising a USB charging port on one of
the housing and the battery.
6. The sweeper of claim 4, wherein the collection cup is positioned
between the brushroll and the battery.
7. The sweeper of claim 1, wherein the brush chamber comprises a
brushroll clearance that varies radially relative to the axis to
increase or decrease the compression of the brushroll by the brush
chamber.
8. The sweeper of claim 1, comprising a ramp provided at a rear
portion of the brush chamber for guiding dirt and liquid toward the
entrance opening and into the collection chamber, the ramp
extending from a rear side of the inlet opening upwardly to the
entrance opening of the collection cup.
9. The sweeper of claim 8, comprising a cover on the housing which
encloses the collection cup and the brushroll, the cover comprising
an upper inside surface which overlies the ramp, and wherein the
upper inside surface of the cover is angled downwardly in a
rearward direction toward the collection cup.
10. The sweeper of claim 1, comprising: an interference edge facing
the brush chamber and interfacing with a leading portion of the
brushroll; and a squeegee is provided on the housing, rearwardly of
the brushroll, and configured to contact the surface to be cleaned
below the housing as the housing moves along the surface to be
cleaned.
11. The sweeper of claim 1, comprising a cover on the housing which
encloses the collection cup and the brushroll, wherein the cover is
removable from the housing without the use of tools, and wherein
the collection cup is configured to be removed from the housing for
emptying without removing the cover from the housing.
12. The sweeper of claim 11, wherein the cover is at least
partially formed from one of a translucent material and a
transparent material, such that the brushroll and the collection
chamber defined by the collection cup are at least partially
visible to a user through the cover without removing the cover.
13. The sweeper of claim 11, comprising a brushroll latch securing
the brushroll within the brush chamber, wherein the brushroll is
removably mounted in the brush chamber by the brushroll latch,
wherein the brushroll latch is inaccessible with the cover on the
housing and accessible with the cover removed from the housing.
14. The sweeper of claim 1, comprising an upright body pivotally
mounted to the housing, wherein the fluid distributor is located on
the upright body and configured to spray cleaning fluid outwardly
and forwardly in front of the housing directly onto the surface to
be cleaned.
15. The sweeper of claim 1, wherein the brushroll comprises a
hybrid brushroll including a plurality of bristles, with the
microfiber material arranged between the bristles.
16. The sweeper of claim 1, comprising: an upright body, wherein
the supply tank is mounted to the upright body; and a swivel joint
coupling the upright body to the housing, the swivel joint defining
a first axis about which the upright body is configured to be
pivoted front-to-back with respect to the housing and a second axis
about which the upright body is configured to be pivoted
side-to-side with respect to the housing.
17. The sweeper of claim 1, comprising: an upright body pivotally
mounted to the housing, a single rear wheel disposed at a rear of
the housing and centered below the upright body; and a pair of
forward wheels disposed on the housing, forwardly of the single
rear wheel.
18. The sweeper of claim 1, comprising: an upright body pivotally
mounted to the housing, the upright body comprising a handle and a
frame, wherein the supply tank is mounted to the frame, and wherein
the handle pivotally-coupled with the frame to pivot between an
extended position and a folded position.
19. The sweeper of claim 1, wherein the sweeper is an autonomous
sweeper comprising an autonomous drive system configured to drive
the housing autonomously over the surface to be cleaned.
20. The sweeper of claim 1, wherein the sweeper is a multi-function
sweeper configured to perform both dry sweeping and wet mopping.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/804,342, filed Feb. 12, 2019, which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Floor and other surface cleaning apparatus are well known
devices for removing dirt (including dust, hair, and other debris)
from a floor surface. One specific category of floor cleaning
apparatus is the sweeper (e.g. carpet sweepers) which uses
mechanical action to clean floors. Typically, sweepers comprise a
cleaning foot or base with at least one agitator, such as a
brushroll. The agitator or brushroll can be power driven, such as
by a motor. Alternatively, sweepers can have agitators driven by
manual propulsion. Usually, the agitator or brushroll throws the
dirt into a bin. In some sweepers, the bin is a cavity that can be
emptied by opening a panel in the sweeper housing. Other sweepers
comprise a separate bin mounted in the sweeper housing, and the
dust bin can be removed from the sweeper for emptying. Some
sweepers also comprise a handle assembly pivotally mounted to the
base for moving the sweeper across the surface to be cleaned.
Customarily, the sweeper handle assembly comprises an elongated
stick-like portion that can be grasped by a user while standing an
upright position. Autonomous or robotic sweepers are also
known.
[0003] While sweepers have been adequate for removing dry or loose
dirt from bare floor surfaces such as tile, linoleum, and hardwood
floors, cleaning a bare floor surface commonly involves other
steps. Namely, after dry dirt is removed, the bare floor surface is
mopped or wet-cleaned using a cleaning fluid. Thus, cleaning a bare
floor often requires multiple cleaning tools.
[0004] The most common cleaning implement for mopping or
wet-cleaning is a traditional sponge or rag mop. Mops are capable
of loosening dirt from the floor and have excellent absorbency;
however, when the mop requires more cleaning solution, it is placed
in a bucket to soak up warm cleaning solution and returned to the
floor. Each time more cleaning solution is required, the mop is
usually placed in the same bucket, and after several repetitions
the cleaning solution becomes dirty and cold. As a result, dirty
cleaning solution is used to remove dirt from the bare surface.
Furthermore, the mop head wears with use and must be replaced
periodically. Textured cloths can be used as an agitator, but they
also require regular replacement. Additionally, cloths are not as
absorbent as mops and, therefore, can leave excessive soiled
cleaning solution on the floor.
[0005] Some household cleaning devices have been developed to
simplify the cleaning process by reducing the number of cleaning
steps required and eliminating the need for multiple cleaning
implements These devices alleviate some of the problems described
above that are associated with the individual tools. Such cleaning
devices are usually adapted for vacuuming or sweeping dry dirt and
dust prior to application of cleaning solution, applying and
agitating the cleaning solution, and, subsequently, vacuuming the
soiled cleaning solution into a recovery tank, thereby leaving only
a small amount of cleaning solution on the bare surface. Common
agitators are rotating brushes, rotating mop cloths, and stationary
or vibrating sponge mops. A good portion of the multifunctional
cleaning devices utilize an accessory that is attached to the
cleaning device to convert between dry and wet cleaning modes.
Other devices are capable of performing all functions without
accessories, but have complex designs and features that can be
difficult and confusing to operate, as well as being heavy and
expensive. Further, upon completion of a cleaning task, the
agitator is wet and dirty, and often does not adequately dry out
between cleaning operations, thereby reducing cleaning efficacy of
the device during a subsequent cleaning.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0006] A surface cleaning apparatus is provided herein. In certain
embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus is a multi-function
sweeper that can be used to clean hard floor surfaces such as tile
and hardwood completely, by performing both dry sweeping and wet
mopping.
[0007] According to one embodiment of the invention, a sweeper for
cleaning a floor surface includes a housing, or base, adapted to
move along a surface to be cleaned, the housing having a brush
chamber and an inlet opening configured to be adjacent the surface
to be cleaned as the housing moves across a surface, a fluid
delivery system including a supply tank configured to store
cleaning fluid and a fluid distributor configured to apply cleaning
fluid to the surface to be cleaned, a collection cup rearward of
the inlet opening and the brush chamber, and removably mounted to
the housing, a brushroll in the brush chamber mounted in the
housing for rotation about an axis, a portion of the brushroll
projecting through the inlet opening to sweep the surface to be
cleaned, the brushroll having a sweeping medium comprising
microfiber material capable of absorbing liquid, the brushroll
configured to mechanically propel dirt and liquid from the surface
to be cleaned into the collection cup, and a brushroll motor
drivingly connected to the brushroll for rotation of the brushroll
about the axis. The collection cup can have an entrance opening and
a collection chamber that is in fluid communication with the brush
chamber via the entrance opening, whereby dirt and liquid
mechanically propelled through the entrance opening by the
brushroll are collected within the collection chamber defined by
the collection cup.
[0008] In one embodiment, the sweeper comprises an upright body
pivotally mounted to the housing or base.
[0009] In one embodiment, the collection cup can be removed through
a lateral side of the base for emptying. The collection cup can
slide out of a housing of the base transversely to remove the
collection cup from the base.
[0010] In one embodiment, the sweeper is preferably battery
powered. A battery pack is mounted to the base and is connected to
a motor drivingly connected to the brushroll. The collection cup
can be positioned between the brushroll and the battery.
Optionally, the sweeper can have a USB charging port that can be
used to charge the battery.
[0011] In one embodiment, the brushroll is removable from the base.
Optionally, a brushroll latch can secure the brushroll within a
brush chamber on the base.
[0012] In one embodiment, the brushroll is a hybrid brushroll that
includes multiple agitation materials to optimize cleaning
performance for different cleaning modes, including wet mopping and
dry sweeping.
[0013] In one embodiment, the base includes a brush chamber in
which the brushroll is mounted for rotation about a brushroll
rotational axis. The brush chamber can be configured with a
brushroll clearance that varies radially relative to the brushroll
rotational axis to increase or decrease the compression of the
brushroll by the brush chamber and to increase or decrease the
interference between the brush chamber, the brushroll, and a
surface to be cleaned, which balances cleaning performance or
efficacy of the sweeper with battery life.
[0014] According to one embodiment of the invention, the sweeper is
provided with an interference edge, such as a rigid wiper,
configured to interface with a portion of the brushroll to scrape
excess liquid off the brushroll and/or aid in distributing cleaning
fluid evenly along the length of the brushroll. The rigid wiper can
be integrated with a removable cover on the base. Optionally, the
wiper can be rigid, i.e. stiff and non-flexible, so the wiper does
not yield or flex by engagement with the brushroll. In certain
embodiments, the rigid wiper interfaces with a hybrid brushroll
that includes multiple agitation materials to optimize cleaning
performance during different cleaning modes, including wet mopping
and dry sweeping.
[0015] In one embodiment, a squeegee is provided rearwardly of the
brushroll and wipes the surface to be cleaned while introducing
liquid and dirt into the inlet opening to reduce streaking on the
surface to be cleaned, as well as to prevent dry dirt from
scattering when the brushroll is rotating.
[0016] In one embodiment, the base can include a removable cover
which encloses one or both of the collection cup and the brushroll.
The cover can be at least partially formed from a translucent or
transparent material, such that an interior space of the base is
visible to the user through the cover. For example, one or both of
the brushroll and the collection chamber defined by the collection
cup can be at least partially visible to a user through the cover,
which can allow the user to view the brushroll and ascertain of the
brushroll needs cleaning, and/or to view the dirt collected in the
collection chamber to ascertain if the collection cup needs
emptying. Optionally, the collection cup can be removed from the
base for emptying, without removing the cover.
[0017] In one embodiment, the fluid delivery system can include a
supply tank, optionally provided on the upright body, and a fluid
distributor for applying the cleaning fluid to the surface to be
cleaned. The fluid distributor can be located on the upright body
and can be configured for spraying directly onto the floor.
Alternatively, the fluid distributor can be positioned inside the
base and configured for spraying indirectly onto the floor, such as
by spraying onto the brushroll.
[0018] In one embodiment, the fluid delivery system can include a
flow control system for controlling the flow of fluid from the
supply tank to the fluid distributor. The flow control system can
include a pump. The pump can be located on the upright body and
mechanically actuated by a trigger on the handle. Optionally, a
push rod can mechanically couple the trigger with the pump.
[0019] In another embodiment, the flow control system can include
an electrically-powered pump, such as a solenoid pump.
[0020] In one embodiment, the sweeper can comprise a swivel joint
between the upright body and the base, such as a multi-axis Cardan
joint or a ball joint. The swivel joint defines a first axis, which
is generally perpendicular to the direction of travel of the
sweeper and the upright body can be pivoted from front-to-back with
respect to the base about the first axis. The swivel joint further
defines a second axis, which is generally parallel to the direction
of travel of the sweeper, and about which the upright body be
pivoted from side-to-side with respect to the base. Accordingly,
the swivel joint is configured to permit the base to swivel
multi-axially with respect the upright body. Wiring and/or conduits
can optionally supply electricity and/or liquid (or other fluids)
between the base and the upright body, or vice versa, and can
extend though the swivel joint.
[0021] In one embodiment, the base of the sweeper can comprise a
single rear wheel disposed at a rear of the base. The rear wheel
can be centered below the upright body, and optionally below a
swivel joint coupling the upright body to the base. A pair of
forward wheels can be disposed on the base forwardly of the single
rear wheel.
[0022] In one embodiment, the sweeper can comprise an upright body
having a foldable handle and a frame. The handle can be
pivotally-coupled with the frame to pivot between an extended
position and a folded position.
[0023] In one embodiment, the sweeper can comprise at least one
user interface through which a user can interact with the sweeper.
Optionally, the sweeper can comprise a rechargeable battery for
cordless operation. The battery can power the user interface, and
can also power a motor drivingly connected to the brushroll.
[0024] The at least one user interface can comprise a human-machine
interface (HMI) having one or more input controls operably
connected to systems in the sweeper to affect and control its
operation, and/or a status user interface (SUI) which communicates
a condition or status of the sweeper to the user.
[0025] According to another embodiment of the invention, the
sweeper comprises an upright body pivotally mounted to a base that
is adapted to move along a surface to be cleaned. The base has an
inlet opening and a driven brushroll mounted for rotation in the
inlet opening for sweeping the surface to be cleaned. A collection
cup is operatively associated with the inlet opening for receiving
the dirt and liquid mechanically propelled into the collection cup
by the brushroll. The sweeper includes a fluid delivery system for
delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned.
[0026] In another embodiment, the sweeper can comprise an
autonomous or robotic sweeper. The components of the various
functional systems of the sweeper, including a fluid delivery
system, a collection system, and an autonomous drive system, can be
mounted in an autonomously moveable housing.
[0027] These and other features and advantages of the present
disclosure will become apparent from the following description of
particular embodiments, when viewed in accordance with the
accompanying drawings and appended claims.
[0028] Before the embodiments of the invention are explained in
detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to
the details of operation or to the details of construction and the
arrangement of the components set forth in the following
description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention may be
implemented in various other embodiments and of being practiced or
being carried out in alternative ways not expressly disclosed
herein. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and
terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and
should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including" and
"comprising" and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items
listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional
items and equivalents thereof. Further, enumeration may be used in
the description of various embodiments. Unless otherwise expressly
stated, the use of enumeration should not be construed as limiting
the invention to any specific order or number of components. Nor
should the use of enumeration be construed as excluding from the
scope of the invention any additional steps or components that
might be combined with or into the enumerated steps or components.
Any reference to claim elements as "at least one of X, Y and Z" is
meant to include any one of X, Y or Z individually, and any
combination of X, Y and Z, for example, X, Y, Z; X, Y; X, Z; and Y,
Z.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning apparatus
in the form of a sweeper, according to a first embodiment of the
invention;
[0030] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the sweeper from FIG. 1,
where the break lines indicate that a portion of a handle of the
sweeper is not shown for clarity;
[0031] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of a
handle of the sweeper from FIG. 1;
[0032] FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of a
portion of a fluidly delivery system of the sweeper from FIG.
1;
[0033] FIG. 5 is a partially-exploded view of the sweeper from FIG.
1;
[0034] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional front view of a portion of the
sweeper from FIG. 1, showing a supply tank and latches for securing
the supply tank on the sweeper;
[0035] FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of a base of the sweeper
from FIG. 1;
[0036] FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIG. 7, showing a collection cup
removed from the sweeper;
[0037] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of collection cup latch for the
collection cup of the sweeper from FIG. 1;
[0038] FIG. 10 is a partially-exploded view of the base of the
sweeper from FIG. 1, where a portion of the base is removed for
clarity;
[0039] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the base of the sweeper
from FIG. 1;
[0040] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning
apparatus in the form of a sweeper, according to a second
embodiment of the invention;
[0041] FIG. 13 is an enlarged perspective view of a base of the
sweeper from FIG. 12;
[0042] FIG. 14 is a schematic control diagram for the sweeper from
FIG. 12;
[0043] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning
apparatus in the form of a sweeper, according to a third embodiment
of the invention;
[0044] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning
apparatus in the form of an autonomous sweeper, according to a
fourth embodiment of the invention; and
[0045] FIG. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the
autonomous sweeper of FIG. 16.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0046] The invention generally relates to a surface or floor
cleaning apparatus, which may be in the form of a sweeper having a
fluid delivery system.
[0047] The functional systems of the surface cleaning apparatus or
sweeper can be arranged into any desired configuration, such as an
upright device having a base and an upright body for directing the
base across the surface to be cleaned. Other optional
configurations include a portable device adapted to be hand carried
by a user for cleaning relatively small areas. Any of the
aforementioned cleaners can be adapted as a powered sweeper,
optionally including an on-board battery for cordless operation. As
used herein, the term "multi-function sweeper" includes a sweeper
that can be used to clean hard floor surfaces, such as tile and
hardwood, completely, by performing both dry sweeping and wet
mopping.
[0048] The apparatus can include a fluid delivery system for
storing cleaning fluid and delivering the cleaning fluid to the
surface to be cleaned and a collection system for collecting fluid
and dirt from the surface to be cleaned and storing the fluid and
dirt on-board the apparatus.
[0049] The fluid delivery system can include a supply tank for
storing a supply of cleaning fluid and, a fluid distributor for
applying the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned. The
supply tank and fluid distributor can be provided on an upright
handle assembly or body of the apparatus. Alternatively, the supply
tank and fluid distributor can be provided on a cleaning foot or
base adapted to move over the surface to be cleaned.
[0050] The collection system can include an inlet opening, a
collection cup for collecting fluid and dirt from the surface for
later disposal, and an agitator or brushroll for sweeping the
surface to be cleaned so that the dirt and liquid swept up and
absorbed by the brushroll is mechanically propelled into the
collection cup. It is noted that in some embodiments, at least some
liquid absorbed by the brushroll and at least some dirt may remain
on the brushroll, rather than being propelled into the collection
cup. The inlet opening, collection cup, and brushroll can be
provided on a cleaning foot or base adapted to move over the
surface to be cleaned. Optionally, the agitator or brushroll can be
motorized.
[0051] While primarily discussed herein in terms of a sweeper, the
features of the surface cleaning apparatus disclosed herein are
applicable to other types of surface cleaning apparatus, including
any surface cleaning apparatus having a cleaning fluid delivery
system, such as apparatus having a suction source to create a
partial vacuum to suck up dirt and liquid from floors and from
other surfaces, i.e. a vacuum cleaner, extraction cleaner, or deep
cleaner.
[0052] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning apparatus
according to one aspect of the present disclosure, shown as a
sweeper and generally designated 10. As discussed in further detail
below, the sweeper 10 is provided with various features and
improvements, which are described in further detail below. As
illustrated herein, the sweeper 10 can be an upright multi-surface
sweeper having a housing that includes an upright handle assembly
or body 12 and a cleaning foot or base 14 mounted to or coupled
with the upright body 12 and adapted for movement across a surface
to be cleaned. The sweeper 10 includes a fluid delivery system and
a collection system, which are described in further detail below,
and which can include components supported on either one or both of
the body 12 and base 14.
[0053] For purposes of description related to the figures, the
terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front,"
"vertical," "horizontal," "inner," "outer," and derivatives thereof
shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in FIG. 1 from the
perspective of a user behind the sweeper 10, which defines the rear
of the sweeper 10. However, it is to be understood that the
disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except
where expressly specified to the contrary. The term "dirt" includes
dirt, dust, hair, and other debris, unless otherwise noted.
[0054] The upright body 12 can comprise a handle 16 and a frame 18.
The frame 18 can comprise a main support section supporting at
least a supply tank 20, and may further support additional
components of the body 12. The handle 16 can include a hand grip 22
and a trigger 24 mounted to the hand grip 22, which controls fluid
delivery from the supply tank 20 via an electronic or mechanical
coupling with the tank 20.
[0055] With additional reference to FIG. 2, the trigger 24 can
project at least partially exteriorly of the hand grip 22 for user
access. The trigger 24 can rotate about a pivot 26, and can be
biased outwardly from the hand grip 22 as described in further
detail below. Other actuators, such as a thumb switch, can be
provided instead of the trigger 24.
[0056] The upright body 12 can comprise any type of elongated
handle or body suitable for the purposes described herein and can
be adapted to pivot about one or more axes. For example, the
upright body 12 can be pivoted about a pivot axis 30 through a
range of angles relative to the surface to be cleaned. The pivot
axis 30 can lie substantially parallel to the surface to be
cleaned, and can extend transversely or laterally through the base.
Optionally, the upright body 12 can be configured so as to swivel
about its longitudinal axis in addition to pivoting about the pivot
axis 30.
[0057] In the embodiment shown, the upright body 12 can be
pivotally attached to the base 14 for rotation about the pivot axis
30 by a moveable joint assembly 32. The joint assembly 32 can be
formed at a lower end of the frame 18 and moveably mounts the base
14 to the upright body 12. In the embodiment shown herein, the
upright body 12 can pivot up and down about at least the pivot axis
30 relative to the base 14. The joint assembly 32 can include a
yoke 34 pivotally connected on opposing lateral sides of the base
14, with said pivotal connection defining the pivot axis 30. The
yoke 34 is further fixed with the upright body 12, either directly
or via an extension 36 on a lower end of the upright body 12, which
can particularly extend from a lower end of the frame 18. In
another embodiment, the joint assembly 32 can alternatively
comprise a universal joint, such that the upright body 12 can pivot
about at least two axes relative to the base 14.
[0058] The fluid delivery system of the sweeper 10 can include a
fluid delivery or supply pathway, including and at least partially
defined by the supply tank 20, for storing cleaning fluid and
delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned. The
cleaning fluid can comprise one or more of any suitable cleaning
fluids, including, but not limited to, water, compositions,
concentrated detergent, diluted detergent, etc., and mixtures
thereof. For example, the fluid can comprise a mixture of water and
concentrated detergent.
[0059] The supply tank 20 can be provided on the upright body 12.
The supply tank 20 can be mounted to the frame 18 in any
configuration. In the present embodiment, the supply tank 20 can be
removably mounted at the front of the frame 18 such that the supply
tank 20 partially rests in the upper front portion of the frame 18
and partially against the handle 16, and can be removable from the
frame 18 for filling or refilling.
[0060] The supply tank 20 includes at least one supply chamber 38
for holding cleaning fluid and a supply valve assembly 40
controlling fluid flow through an outlet of the supply chamber 38.
Alternatively, the supply tank 20 can include multiple supply
chambers, such as one chamber containing water and another chamber
containing a cleaning agent. For a removable supply tank 20, the
supply valve assembly 40 can mate with a valve receiver 42 on the
frame 18 and can be configured to automatically open when the
supply tank 20 is seated on the frame 18 to release fluid to the
fluid delivery pathway.
[0061] In addition to the supply tank 20, the fluid delivery
pathway can include a fluid distributor 44 having at least one
outlet for applying the cleaning fluid to the surface to be
cleaned. In one embodiment, the fluid distributor 44 is provided on
the upright body 12 and can be configured to deliver cleaning fluid
to the surface to be cleaned directly by spraying outwardly and
forwardly in front of the base 14. More specifically, the fluid
distributor 44 can spray cleaning fluid forwardly of a front
leading edge 46 of the base 14. As shown, the fluid distributor 44
is provided on a front side 48 of the frame 18, optionally below
the supply tank 20 and above the joint 32. In other embodiments,
the fluid distributor 44 can be provided on the base 14 and can be
configured to deliver cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned
directly or indirectly.
[0062] The fluid distributor 44 can comprise at least one spray tip
50, which can be angled or otherwise formed to spray at an outward
and downward angle. Other embodiments of fluid distributors 44 are
possible, such as a spray manifold having multiple outlets, a spray
nozzle configured to spray cleaning fluid laterally or rearwardly
from the upright body 12 to the side of or to the rear of the base
14, or a spray nozzle configured to spray cleaning fluid outwardly
from the base 14 in front of the sweeper 10.
[0063] The fluid delivery system can further comprise a flow
control system for controlling the flow of fluid from the supply
tank 20 to the fluid distributor 44. In one configuration, the flow
control system can comprise a pump 52 which pressurizes the system.
The trigger 24 can be operably coupled with the flow control system
such that pressing the trigger 24 will deliver fluid from the fluid
distributor 52. The pump 52 can be positioned within the frame 18
and is in fluid communication with the supply tank 20 via the valve
assembly 40. Optionally, a fluid supply conduit 54 can pass
interiorly within the frame 18 to fluidly connect an outlet of the
pump 52 with an inlet of the fluid distributor 44. The fluid supply
conduit 54 can be angled downwardly such that gravity aids in the
flow of cleaning fluid from the pump 52 to the fluid distributor
44. In another embodiment, the pump 52 and fluid distributor 44 can
be provided in the base 14, with a fluid supply conduit passing
exteriorly or interiorly to the joint assembly 32 to fluidly
connect the supply tank 20 to the pump 52.
[0064] The pump 52 can be selectively mechanically actuated by the
trigger 24. In one embodiment, the trigger 24 is operably connected
to a push rod 56, which is in turn in register with the pump 52. As
show, the push rod 56 can be slidably mounted within the handle 16.
The push rod 56 can move linearly or slide within a cavity 58
formed within the handle 16, which can be tubular or otherwise
formed with a hollow interior space defining the cavity 58 for
receiving the push rod. 56. It is noted that the handle 16 and the
push rod 56 can be monolithic or one-piece components, or made from
multiple pieces or segments coupled together.
[0065] With additional reference to FIGS. 3-4, the trigger 24 can
have a trigger arm 60 within the hand grip 22 that is in register
with an upper end 62 of the push rod 56. Pressing a portion 64 of
the trigger 24 external to the hand grip 22 rotates the entire
trigger 24 about the pivot 26, including the trigger arm 60, which
is levered against the upper end 62 of the push rod 56 to force the
push rod 56 downwardly within the handle 16 or toward the pump
52.
[0066] A lower end 66 of the push rod 56 is in register with a
portion of the pump 52. Movement of the lower end lower end 66 of
the push rod 56 against the pump 52 actuates the pump 52 to deliver
cleaning fluid to the distributor 44. In one example, the pump 52
can be a positive displacement pump, such as a piston pump. In
another example, the pump 52 can be a centrifugal pump.
[0067] The push rod 56 can be constrained for linear sliding
movement within the handle 16. Optionally, the joint connecting the
push rod 56 to the handle 16 can be at least one pin-in-slot joint
88 that limits the movement of the push rod 56 relative to the
handle 16 to a linear sliding movement. The pin-in-slot joint 88
can be formed by an axle in the form of a shaft pin 90 provided
within the cavity 58 of the handle 16, and a slot 92 on a portion
of the push rod 56. In the illustrated embodiment, multiple
pin-in-slot joints 88 are provided for securing the push rod 56 at
multiple locations along its length, for instance at the upper end
62 and lower end 66 of the push rod 56. The slot 92 can be
elongated in the direction of linear sliding movement of the push
rod 56.
[0068] In operation, when the trigger 24 is depressed, the trigger
arm 60 pushes the upper end 62 of the push rod 56, which slides
downwardly within the handle 16. The lower end 66 of the push rod
56 actuates the pump 52. The pump 52 forces the cleaning fluid
through the fluid supply conduit 54 and through the distributor 44,
where cleaning fluid is sprayed outwardly for delivery onto the
surface to be cleaned. The push rod 56 can further be biased to
slide upwardly when the trigger 24 is released.
[0069] In one embodiment, the pump 52 can include a pump housing 68
defining a chamber 70 having an inlet coupled with the valve
receiver 42 and selectively closed by a one-way pump inlet valve
72, and an outlet coupled with the fluid supply conduit 54 and
selectively closed by a one-way pump outlet valve 74. A piston 76
is arranged within the pump housing 68 and is configured for linear
reciprocal movement within the pump chamber 70. The piston 76 can
include a piston head 78 located outside the pump housing 68, in
register with the lower end 66 of the push rod 56.
[0070] A downstroke of the piston 76 is effected by the push rod 56
via the actuation of the trigger 24. A return spring 80, such as a
coil spring, can bias the piston 76 upwardly within the pump
housing 68 to effect an upstroke. The return spring 80 can be
positioned between the pump housing 68 and the piston 76. The
return spring 80 can further be configured to bias the push rod 56
upwardly within the handle 16 or toward the hand grip 22 to a
non-dispensing position, and also optionally bias the trigger 24
outwardly from the hand grip 22 to a non-dispensing position.
Alternatively, one or more additional biasing members can be
provided for biasing the push rod 56 and/or the trigger 24 to a
non-dispensing position.
[0071] In operation, the upstroke of the piston 76 draws cleaning
fluid through the pump inlet valve 72 into the pump chamber 70. On
the downstroke of the piston 76, the cleaning fluid is discharged,
through the pump outlet valve 74, into the fluid supply conduit
54.
[0072] As mentioned above, the supply valve assembly 40 can mate
with the valve receiver 42 on the frame 18 and can be configured to
automatically open when the supply tank 20 is seated on the frame
18 to release cleaning fluid to the fluid delivery pathway. In one
embodiment, the valve receiver 42 includes a plunger 82 which will
push open the valve assembly 40, against the biasing force of a
valve spring 84, when the supply tank 20 is seated on the frame 18
to release cleaning fluid to the pump inlet valve 72. Optionally, a
receiver conduit 86 can pass interiorly within the frame 18 to
fluidly connect an outlet of the valve receiver 42 with the pump
inlet valve 72.
[0073] In another embodiment, the pump 52 can be an
electrically-actuated pump, such as, but not limited to, a solenoid
pump having a single, dual, or variable speed. In such an
embodiment, the push rod 56 can have one end in register with a
switch that activates the pump 52. Alternatively, the push rod 56
can be eliminated, and the trigger 24 can be electronically coupled
with a switch and a PCB configured to control the duty cycle of the
pump 52.
[0074] In another configuration of the fluid supply pathway, the
pump 52 can be eliminated and the flow control system can comprise
a gravity-feed system having a valve fluidly coupled with an outlet
of the supply tank 20, whereby when valve is open, fluid will flow
under the force of gravity to the fluid distributor 52. The valve
can be mechanically actuated, such as by providing the push rod 56
with one end in register with the valve, such that pressing the
trigger 24 forces the push rod 56 to open the valve.
[0075] Optionally, a heater (not shown) can be provided for heating
the cleaning fluid prior to delivering the cleaning fluid to the
surface to be cleaned. In one example, an in-line heater can be
located downstream of the supply tank 20, and upstream or
downstream of the pump 52 or other flow control system. Other types
of heaters can also be used.
[0076] With reference to FIG. 5, the upright body 12 can include a
tank receiver or socket 94 for receiving the supply tank 20. As
shown herein, in one embodiment the tank socket 94 can be defined
by portions of the frame 18, and more particularly a portion of the
frame 18 in front of the handle 16. The socket 94 can be configured
to releasably retain the supply tank 20 to the upright body 12,
such that a user can conveniently apply sufficient force to the
supply tank 20 itself to pull the supply tank 20 out of the socket
94. Optionally, the tank 20 can have a handle to facilitate removal
and handling of the tank 20. In the illustrated embodiment, a
handle for the supply tank 20 is provided as hand grip indentations
96 formed in the body of the tank 20.
[0077] Referring to FIG. 6, in the embodiment illustrated herein,
the socket 94 can include a bottom wall 98 and a peripheral wall
100 extending away from the bottom wall 98 on the frame 18. The
lower end of the supply tank 20 can abut the bottom wall 98 of the
socket 94 when the supply tank 20 is secured therein. Optionally, a
portion of the supply tank 20 including the hand grip indentations
96 can extend upwardly above the peripheral wall 100 for easily
gripping the supply tank 20 for removal from the socket 94.
[0078] Optionally, the socket 94 can include a pair of tank latches
102 for securing the supply tank 20 to the upright body 12. The
tank latches 102 facilitate correct installation and better sealing
of the supply tank 20, which alleviates user error and misassembly.
The tank latches 102 can be configured to releasably latch or
retain, but not lock, the supply tank 20 to the upright body 12,
such that a user can conveniently apply sufficient force to the
supply tank 20 itself to pull the supply tank 20 off the frame 18.
In one embodiment, the tank latches 102 for the supply tank 20 can
comprise spring-biased latches configured to release the supply
tank 20 upon application a sufficient force to overcome the biased
latching force of the latches 102. The tank latches 102 can be
disposed below the bottom wall 98 in an opposing relationship to
engage opposing portions of the supply tank 20, such as opposing
sides of the valve assembly 40.
[0079] The valve receiver 42 can be located in the socket 94, such
as in the bottom wall 98, for receiving the supply valve assembly
40 controlling fluid flow through an outlet of the supply chamber
38 when the supply tank 20 is seated within the socket 94. The
supply valve assembly 40 can be adapted to open upon the seating of
the supply tank 20 within the socket 94, and to close upon removal
of the supply tank 20 from the socket 94.
[0080] Referring to FIG. 2, the base 14 can include a base housing
104 supporting at least some of the components of the fluid
delivery and collection systems, a collection cup 106, a brushroll
108 or other agitator, and a removable cover 110 on the base
housing 104 which encloses one or both of the collection cup 106
and the brushroll 108 or other agitator. Wheels can be provided on
the base housing 104 for moving the sweeper 10 over the surface to
be cleaned, and optionally can include a pair of front wheels 112
and a pair of rear wheels 114. The rear wheels 114 can be provided
on rearward portion of the base housing 104, rearward of components
such as the brushroll 108 and collection cup 106.
[0081] It is noted that, while the fluid distributor 44 is shown as
being on the upright body 12, alternatively, the fluid distributor
44 can be positioned inside the base 14 and configured for spraying
indirectly onto the floor, such as by spraying onto the brushroll
108. One example of a suitable fluid distributor configured for
spraying onto a brushroll 108 is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
10,092,155, issued Oct. 9, 2018, which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.
[0082] The collection system of the sweeper 10 is configured to
remove fluid and dirt from the surface to be cleaned and store the
collected fluid and dirt onboard the sweeper 10 for later disposal.
The collection system can include at least an inlet opening 116,
the collection cup 106, and the brushroll 108. The inlet opening
116 can be provided on the base 14 can be adapted to be adjacent
the surface to be cleaned as the base 14 moves across a surface.
The brushroll 108 can be provided adjacent to the inlet opening
116, with at least a portion of the brushroll 108 projecting
through the inlet opening 116 to sweep the surface to be cleaned so
that the dirt and liquid swept up by the brushroll 108 is
mechanically propelled into the collection cup 106.
[0083] The brushroll 108 can be provided at a forward portion of
the base 14 and received in a brush chamber 118 on the base 14. The
brushroll 108 can be mounted for rotational movement in a direction
R about a central rotational axis X (see FIG. 11). The brush
chamber 118 can be forward of the collection cup 106, and can be
defined at least in part by the inlet opening 116 and cover 110, as
described in more detail below. A squeegee 120 is mounted to the
base housing 104, behind the brushroll 108, and is configured to
contact the surface as the base 14 moves across the surface to be
cleaned.
[0084] Referring to FIG. 5, the base housing 104 generally includes
a front side 122, a rear side 124, and two lateral sides 126, 128,
although other configurations of the base housing 104 are possible.
In the illustrated embodiment, the base housing 104 comprises a
bottom housing 130 and a top housing 132 which is received on a
rear portion of the bottom housing 130. The cover 110 is received
on a forward portion of the bottom housing 130, generally in front
of the top housing 132. The bottom housing 130 and the cover 110
can together define a forward enclosure which can contain
components of the sweeper 10 such as, but not limited to, the
collection cup 106 and the brushroll 108. The bottom and top
housings 130, 132 together define a rear enclosure which can as
contain other components of the sweeper 10, as described in further
detail below. The squeegee 120 can be mounted or otherwise provided
on the bottom housing 130, and can extend between the lateral sides
126, 128 of the base housing 104.
[0085] The collection cup 106 can any type of collection bin or
tank suitable for the purposes described herein, including the
collection of dirt and liquid, and can define a collection chamber
134 for receiving the dirt and liquid mechanically propelled into
the collection cup 106 by the brushroll 108. The collection cup 106
has a generally open top that defines an entrance opening 136 into
the collection chamber 134 and which is in fluid communication with
the brush chamber 118. Dirt and liquid that is swept up by the
brushroll 108 can be propelled through the entrance opening 136
into the collection cup 106.
[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the collection cup 106 is
elongated transversely, and can be rectilinear in shape, including
a closed bottom wall 138, spaced front and rear side walls 140,
142, and lateral side walls 144, 146 extending between the front
and rear walls 140, 142. The side walls 140-146 can collectively
define the open top or entrance opening 136 into the collection
chamber 134.
[0087] The collection cup 106 is removable from the base 14 for
emptying. The base 14 can include a collection cup receiver, such
as a collection cup pocket 148, for receiving the collection cup
106. As shown herein, in one embodiment, the pocket 148 can be
defined by portions of the base housing 104 and the cover 110. The
collection cup 106 can slide into the pocket 148 to install the
collection cup 106 on the base 14 and can slide out of the pocket
148 to remove the collection cup 106 from the base 14.
[0088] In one embodiment, the collection cup 106 can be removed
through the lateral side 128 of the base housing 104 for emptying.
The collection cup 106 can slide out of the base housing 104
transversely to remove the collection cup 106 from the base 14. In
the embodiment illustrated herein with the pocket 148, the pocket
148 can comprise a pocket opening 150 at the lateral side 128 of
the base housing 104 through which the collection cup 106 can
transversely slide.
[0089] Referring to FIGS. 7-9, optionally, the sweeper 10 can
include a collection cup latch 152 for securing the collection cup
106 to the base 14. The collection cup latch 152 can be configured
to releasably lock the collection cup 106 on the base 14 so that
that a user must actuate the latch 152 before removing the
collection cup 106 from the base 14. Alternatively, collection cup
latch 152 can be configured to releasably latch or retain, but not
lock, the collection cup 106 on the base 14, such that a user can
conveniently apply sufficient force to the collection cup 106
itself to pull the collection cup 106 off the base 14.
[0090] In one embodiment, the collection cup latch 152 can comprise
a latch body 154 biased by a spring 156 to a latched or locked
position shown in FIG. 9. A slot 158 formed through a wall of the
collection cup 106, such as the rear wall 142, is in register with
a slot 160 formed through the pocket 148 when the collection cup
106 is fully inserted into the pocket 148. A latching end 162 of
the latch body 154 is biased toward the aligned slots 158, 160 by
the spring 156.
[0091] The collection cup latch 152 can further comprise a
user-engageable collection cup release button 164 operably coupled
with the latch body 154. The latch body 154 can be disposed on an
inside of the base 14, with the release button 164 on the exterior
of the base 14, such as on the lateral side 128 of the base housing
104. The latch body 154 can be mounted for linear sliding movement
within the base 14, or can move otherwise within the base 14, to
move the latching end 162 out of the aligned slots 158, 160. Upon
application a sufficient force on the release button 164 to
overcome the force of the spring 156, the latch body 154 slides or
otherwise moves away from the collection cup 106, moving the
latching end 162 out of the aligned slots 158, 160, and freeing the
collection cup 106 for removal from the base 14.
[0092] A handle 166 can be provided on the collection cup 106 to
facilitate the removal of the collection cup 106 from the base 14
for emptying. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 166 can be
provided on the lateral side wall 146 of the collection cup 106.
Conveniently, the handle 166 can be provided on the same side as
the release button 164.
[0093] Referring to FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the removable cover
110 can be coupled to the forward portion of the base housing 104.
The cover 110 can be removable from the base housing 104 without
the use of tools. At least one cover latch 168 can be provided to
releasably secure the cover 110 on the base housing 104, as
described in further detail below. When secured on the base housing
104, the cover 110 can define at least a portion of the brush
chamber 118 which partially encloses the brushroll 108.
Additionally or alternatively, the cover 110 can define at least a
portion of the collection chamber 134 when the collection cup 106
is installed on the base 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the
cover 110 includes a curved forward end 170 which can wrap around
and in front of the brushroll 108 to define the brush chamber 118
and a rearward end 172 which can extend over the collection chamber
134 to cover the entrance opening 136 of the collection cup
106.
[0094] The forward end 170 of the cover 110 can comprise a lower
edge 174 defining a front opening 176 on the base 14. The lower
edge 174 is spaced from the surface to be cleaned, such that a
portion of the brushroll 108 is exposed from the front of the base
14 in addition to being exposed from the bottom of the base 14. The
front opening 176 allows the lower edge 174 to move over larger
dirt on the surface to be cleaned, and prevents the base 14 from
plowing larger dirt in front of the base 14 on forward strokes of
the sweeper 10. Larger dirt instead moves through the front opening
176 and is swept up by the brushroll 108. In one non-limiting
example, the height of the front opening 176, i.e. the distance
between the floor surface F and the lower edge 174 can be >0 mm
and .ltoreq.the length of the microfibers of a microfiber material
220 covering the brushroll 108. In one embodiment, the length of
the microfibers of a microfiber material 220 can be .ltoreq.16 mm,
alternatively .ltoreq.13 mm, alternatively 11-13 mm, inclusive.
[0095] By removing the cover 110, the brushroll 108, brush chamber
118, and/or collection cup 106 can be easily accessed for cleaning
or maintenance of the sweeper 10. In embodiments where the cover
110 defines the forward enclosure with the bottom housing 130,
removing the cover 110 can provide access to the forward enclosure
from above, so that a user does not have to turn the sweeper 10
over, or even move it from its normal operational position with the
base 14 on the surface to be cleaned.
[0096] The cover 110 can comprise a hand grip, such as a carry
handle 178, which can be used to lift the cover 110 away from the
base housing 104. The sweeper 10 can be configured with sufficient
clearance between carry handle 178 on the cover 110 and the yoke 34
of the joint assembly 32 so that the cover 110 can be lifted away
from the base 14 by the carry handle 178 regardless of the
rotational orientation of the upright body 12 relative to the base
14.
[0097] The cover 110 be at least partially formed from a
translucent or transparent material, such that an interior space of
the base 14 is visible to the user through the cover 110.
Optionally, one or both of the brushroll 108 and the collection
chamber 134 defined by the collection cup 106 can be at least
partially visible to a user through the cover 110. This can allow
the user to view the brushroll 108 and ascertain of the brushroll
108 needs cleaning, and/or to view the dirt collected in the
collection chamber 134 to ascertain if the collection cup 106 needs
emptying. As shown, the cover 110 can be molded from a translucent
or transparent material using plastic injection molding.
Alternatively, the cover 110 can be formed with one or more viewing
windows in register with one or both of the brushroll 108 and the
collection chamber 134 defined by the collection cup 106, with the
viewing windows being formed from a translucent or transparent
material.
[0098] In the embodiment shown herein, the collection cup 106 can
be removed from the base 14 for emptying, without removing the
cover 110. Alternatively, the collection cup 106 can be coupled
with or otherwise combined with the cover 110 such that removing
the cover 110 also removes the collection cup 106 for easy cleanout
of both the brush chamber 118 and the collection cup 106 at the
same time.
[0099] Optionally, the brushroll 108 can be configured to be
removed by the user from the base 14, such as for cleaning and/or
drying the brushroll 108. The brushroll 108 can be removably
mounted in the brush chamber 118 by a brushroll latch 180 which is
coupled with the brushroll 108. Accordingly, the cover 110 may be
removed from the base housing 104 prior to removing the brushroll
108. The brushroll latch 180 can be inaccessible with the cover 110
on the housing 104, and accessible with the cover 110 removed from
the housing 104. Once the cover 110 is removed, the brush chamber
118 and latch 180 can be accessed from above, so that a user does
not have to turn the sweeper 10 over, or even move it from its
normal operational position with the base 14 on the surface to be
cleaned to remove the brushroll 108 from the brush chamber 118. In
other embodiments, the brushroll 108 and latch 180 can be
configured such that prior removal of the cover 110 is not
required.
[0100] The brushroll latch 180 can be received by a mating
component on the base housing 104. The mating component can be
provided at one of the lateral sides 126, 128 of the base 14. In
one embodiment, the base housing 104 can include spaced lateral
sidewalls 182, 184 which define the brush chamber 118 therebetween.
The mating component can be a cradle 186 provided on an inner
surface of one of the lateral sidewalls 184. The brushroll latch
180 can be provided on one end of the brushroll 108 and received
within the cradle 186 to mount the brushroll 108 within the brush
chamber 118. The opposite end of the brushroll 108 can have a
splined drive connection 188 with a transmission for driving the
brushroll 108, as described in further detail below.
[0101] Referring to FIG. 10, the collection system can further
include a motor 190 drivingly connected to the brushroll 108, as
described below. The sweeper 10 can be cordless or battery powered.
In the illustrated embodiment, a rechargeable battery 194 (e.g. a
battery pack or a plurality of battery cells) is provided for
cordless operation. In one example, the battery 194 can be a
lithium ion battery. In another exemplary arrangement, the battery
194 can comprise a user replaceable battery. In an alternative
embodiment, the sweeper 10 can have a power cord configured to be
plugged into a household outlet for powering the electronic
components of the sweeper 10.
[0102] The motor 190 can be adapted to drive the brushroll 108 at a
speed sufficient to mechanically propel dirt and liquid swept up
and absorbed by the brushroll 108 into the collection cup. In one
embodiment, a speed of 500 RPM or greater is sufficient such that
at least some of the dirt and/or liquid swept up by the brushroll
108 is thrown by centrifugal force into the collection cup during
rotation of the brushroll 108 by the motor 190. Alternatively, the
motor 190 can be adapted to drive the brushroll 108 at 1000 RPM or
greater, alternatively at about 2000 RPM.
[0103] The sweeper 10 can further include a controller 196 operably
coupled with the various function systems of the sweeper 10 for
controlling its operation, such as being operably coupled with the
brush motor 190 to provide brush motor control and the battery 194
for controlling a battery charging operation. The controller 196
can be a microcontroller unit (MCU) that contains at least one
central processing unit (CPU). The controller 196 can be provided
at various locations on the sweeper 10, and in the illustrated
embodiment is located in the base 14, within the base housing 104.
Alternatively, the controller 196 can be provided on the upright
body 12, such as within the frame 18.
[0104] The sweeper 10 can further include at least one status
indicator 198, such as an LED, which can communicate status
information to the user. Such status information can include a
power status, i.e. whether the sweeper 10 is powered on or off, or
a battery status, i.e. whether the battery 194 is currently
charging and/or the battery charge level. As shown herein, the
status indicator 198 can be provided on the base 14 is visible to a
user from the exterior of the sweeper 10. Alternatively, the status
indicator 198 can be provided on the upright body 12, such as on
the handle 16 or frame 18.
[0105] The battery 194 can be provided at various locations on the
sweeper 10, such as in the base 14 or on the upright body 12, such
as within the frame 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery
194 is mounted within the base 14 and is electrically connected to
the brush motor 190. In particular, the battery 194 can be located
within a battery compartment 200 located on or within the base 14,
which can protect and retain the battery 194 on the sweeper 10.
Optionally, the battery compartment 200 can be formed within the
rear enclosure defined by the bottom and top housings 130, 132
(FIG. 5), which can also contain the brush motor 190 and the
controller 196. Vents 202 can be provided in the rear enclosure,
such as in the bottom housing 130 as shown in the illustrated
embodiment, for cooling the motor 190 and the battery 194.
[0106] As shown, the battery compartment 200 can be located between
the rear wheels 114 on the base 14. Optionally, the collection cup
106 can be positioned between the brushroll 108 and the battery
194, i.e. between the brush chamber 118 and the battery 194. In an
alternative embodiment, the battery 194 and battery compartment 200
can be provided on the upright body 12. The brush motor 190 can be
positioned between the battery 194 and the collection cup 106,
although other locations are possible.
[0107] Referring additionally to FIG. 7, the motor 190 can be
selectively energized by a brush power switch 192. The brush power
switch 192 can be located on the base 14, although other locations
are possible. With the brush power switch 192 located on the base
14, the switch 192 can conveniently be actuated by a user's foot to
turn the motor 190 on and off. Regardless of its location, the
brush power switch 192 can be operated independently of the trigger
24 (FIG. 2) so that cleaning fluid can be dispensed when the
brushroll 108 is rotating for simultaneous wet mopping and
sweeping, the brushroll 108 can be turned off while still
dispensing cleaning fluid via the trigger for a wet mopping-only
mode, or the brushroll 108 can be turned on while not dispensing
cleaning fluid for a dry sweeping-only mode.
[0108] In embodiments where the sweeper 10 has a rechargeable
battery 194, an appropriate charger can be provided with the
sweeper 10. In one embodiment, the sweeper 10 can have a USB
charging port 204 that can be used to charge the battery 194. A USB
charging cable (not shown) can be provided for plugging the sweeper
10 into a household outlet. As shown herein, the USB charging port
204 can be provided on the base 14 and is accessible to a user from
the exterior of the sweeper 10. Alternatively, the USB charging
port 204 can be provided on the upright body 12, such as on the
handle 16 or frame 18. In an alternative embodiment, the sweeper 10
can have charging contacts on the base 14, and a docking station
(not shown) can be provided for receiving the sweeper 10 for
recharging the battery 194 can be provided.
[0109] Referring to FIG. 10, the brushroll 108 can be operably
coupled to and driven by a drive assembly including the motor 190
in the base 14. The drive coupling or transmission between the
brushroll 108 and the motor 190 can comprise one or more belts,
gears, shafts, pulleys or combinations thereof. One example of a
transmission for the brushroll 108 is shown in FIG. 10. The
transmission connects the brush motor 190 to the brushroll 108 for
transmitting rotational motion of a shaft (not shown) of the brush
motor 190 to the brushroll 108. The transmission can include a belt
206, a motor pulley 208 coupled with the motor 190 and a brushroll
pulley 210 coupled with brushroll 108, with the belt 206 coupling
the motor pulley 208 with the brushroll pulley 210. The
transmission can further include a drive head 212 keyed to or
otherwise fixed with the brushroll pulley 210. The drive head 212
can couple with the splined drive connection 188 of the brushroll
108 and can be provided at the lateral sidewall 182 opposite the
cradle 186. The motor pulley 208 can be keyed to or otherwise fixed
with the shaft of the motor 190. It is noted that in FIG. 10, a
portion of the base 14 has been removed in order to view the
transmission and an optional drive housing 214 for the
transmission; particularly, the cover 110 and top housing 132 have
been removed. The drive housing 214 can be formed with or otherwise
coupled to the lateral sidewall 182 on the transmission side. It is
noted that the collection cup 106 slides through the opposite
lateral sidewall 184, i.e. the non-transmission or non-belt
side.
[0110] One embodiment of the brushroll 108 for the sweeper 10 is
shown in FIG. 10. In the present example, brushroll 108 can be a
hybrid brushroll suitable for wet mopping or dry sweeping. In one
embodiment, the brushroll 108 comprises a dowel 216, a plurality of
bristles 218 extending from the dowel 216, and microfiber material
220 provided on the dowel 216 and arranged between the bristles
218. One example of a suitable hybrid brushroll is disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 10,092,155, which is incorporated above. The bristles
218 can be arranged in a plurality of tufts or in a unitary strip.
Dowel 216 can be constructed of a polymeric material such as
acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene or styrene, or
any other suitable material such as plastic, wood, or metal.
Bristles 218 can be tufted or unitary bristle strips and
constructed of nylon, or any other suitable synthetic or natural
fiber. The microfiber material 220 can be constructed of polyester,
polyamides, or a conjugation of materials including polypropylene
or any other suitable material known in the art from which to
construct microfiber. The microfiber of the microfiber material 220
can be a synthetic fiber that is one denier or less, and/or that
has a diameter of less than 10 micrometers.
[0111] Other embodiments of the brushroll 108 are possible. For
example, the brushroll 108 can comprise tufted bristles as the only
sweeping medium. Alternatively, the brushroll 108 can comprise a
sweeping medium made of a soft and compressible material, such as
microfiber material. For example, the brushroll 108 can comprise
the microfiber material 220 as the only sweeping medium. In still
other embodiments, the brushroll 108 can comprise nylon fiber,
foam, elastomeric blades and paddles, or any other sweeping medium
suitable for mechanically propelling dirt and liquid into the
collection cup 106. Additionally, while a horizontally-rotating
brushroll 108 is shown herein, in some embodiments, dual
horizontally-rotating brushrolls, one or more vertically-rotating
brushrolls can be provided on the sweeper 10.
[0112] Referring to FIG. 11, as disclosed above, the brushroll 108
can be provided adjacent to the inlet opening 116 with a portion of
the brushroll 108 projecting through the inlet opening 116 to
contact the surface below the base 14. The brushroll 108 rotates to
sweep the surface to be cleaned so that the dirt and liquid swept
up by the brushroll 108 is mechanically propelled into the
collection cup 106. A ramp 222 can be provided at a rear portion of
the brush chamber 118 for guiding dirt and liquid toward the
entrance opening 136 into the collection chamber 106. Optionally,
the ramp 222 itself can define part of the brush chamber 118,
particularly a rear part of the brush chamber 118. The ramp 222 can
extend from the rear side of the inlet opening 116 upwardly to the
entrance opening 136. The ramp 222 can optionally form a portion of
a divider 224 partitioning the brush chamber 118 off from the
collection cup pocket 148 in the base 14, and can aid in trapping
any dirt or liquid removed from the surface to be cleaned by the
sweeper 10 in the collection cup 106. In at least some embodiments,
the ramp 222 can have an angle with respect to the floor surface F
of >0 degrees and .ltoreq.90 degrees.
[0113] In at least some embodiments of the brushroll 108, liquid
swept up and absorbed by the rotating brushroll 108 can spin off
the brushroll 108 and fly backwards into the collection cup 106.
Some liquid may strike an upper inside surface 226 of the cover 110
before dropping into the collection cup 106. At least a portion of
the upper inside surface 226 of the cover 110 can overlie at least
a portion of the ramp 222. The upper inside surface 226 can
advantageously be angled downwardly in a rearward direction or
toward the collection cup 106 to encourage liquid to drop or flow
into the collection cup 106. In at least some embodiments, the
upper inside surface 226 can have an angle with respect to the
floor surface F of .gtoreq.0 degrees (i.e. parallel to the floor
surface F) and .ltoreq.45 degrees. Additionally, in embodiments
where ramp 222 is present, some liquid spun off the brushroll 108
can fly along or above the ramp 222. Still further, in embodiments
where the brushroll 108 comprises an absorbent material capable of
absorbing liquid, such as microfiber material 220, some liquid can
be absorbed by the brushroll 108. At least some of this absorbed
liquid may be spun off the brushroll 108 and collected in the
collection cup 106, and/or at least some of this absorbed liquid
may be retained by the brushroll 108.
[0114] The cover 110 can include an interference edge 228, such as
a rigid wiper, facing the brush chamber 118 and interfacing with
the brushroll 108. The interference edge 228 can be a thin or
narrow edge, such as a blade or scraper, and can be integrally
formed with the cover. Alternatively, the interference edge 228 can
be separately formed and coupled to the cover 110.
[0115] The interference edge 228 can be on the inside of the
forward end 170. In the illustrated embodiment, the interference
edge 228 comprises the rear-facing side of the lower edge 174
defining the front opening 176 on the base 14. Alternatively, the
interference edge 228 can be provided separately form the lower
edge 174 on the inside of the forward end 170, or elsewhere on the
inside of the cover 110. The lower edge 174 or interference edge
228 can further define the leading edge of the inlet opening
116.
[0116] The interference edge 228 is configured to engage with a
leading portion of the brushroll 108, as defined by the direction
of rotation R of the brushroll 108 about brush rotational axis X.
As the brushroll 108 rotates, the interference edge 228 can scrape
excess liquid off the brushroll 108 and can help redistribute the
liquid evenly along the length of the brushroll 108, which can help
to reduce streaking on the surface to be cleaned.
[0117] The interference edge 228 can be rigid, i.e. stiff and
non-flexible, so the edge 228 does not yield or flex by engagement
with the brushroll 108. In one example, the interference edge 228,
and optionally the cover 110, can be formed of rigid thermoplastic
material, such as poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polycarbonate,
or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).
[0118] The squeegee 120 can be provided adjacent a trailing edge
230 of the inlet opening 116, behind the brushroll 108, in order to
aid in dirt and liquid collection and is configured to contact the
surface as the sweeper 10 moves across the surface to be cleaned.
Particularly with respect to liquid on the surface to be cleaned,
the squeegee 120 wipes residual liquid from the surface to be
cleaned during a forward stroke or forward movement of the sweeper
10, so that it can be collected by the brushroll 108 on a
backstroke or backward movement of the sweeper 10, thereby leaving
a moisture and streak-free finish on the surface to be cleaned. As
used herein, a stroke refers to movement of the sweeper 10 relative
to the surface being cleaned in a single direction, from the
perspective of a user positioned behind the sweeper 10.
[0119] The squeegee 120 can be an elongated blade that generally
spans at least the width of the inlet opening 116, or can generally
span the width of the base 14, and can be supported by the bottom
housing 130. Optionally, the squeegee 120 can be angled forwardly
to encourage the squeegee 120 to skim over liquid and small dirt on
a backstroke of the sweeper 10. Alternatively, the squeegee 120 can
be disposed generally orthogonal to the surface to be cleaned, or
vertically. The squeegee 120 can comprise a smooth forward-facing
surface and a rear surface with a plurality of nubs 232 on the end
thereof as shown, or optionally comprise smooth front and rear
surfaces. The nubs 232 can reduce the contact area of the squeegee
120 with the surface to be cleaned on a backstroke of the sweeper
10 to reduce the push force required to move the sweeper 10.
[0120] The squeegee 120 can be coupled with the trailing edge 230
of the inlet opening 116, and the trailing edge 230 can be
configured to engage with a trailing portion of the brushroll 108,
as defined by the direction of rotation R of the brushroll 108. The
trailing edge 230 can further be defined by a lower end of the ramp
222. As the brushroll 108 rotates, the trailing edge 230 compresses
a portion of the brushroll 108, and the brushroll 108 can remain
compressed against the lower end of the ramp 222 a short distance
before diverging from the ramp 222.
[0121] The squeegee 120 can be pliant, i.e. flexible or resilient,
in order to bend readily according to the contour of the surface to
be cleaned and/or the brushroll 108, yet remain undeformed by
normal use of the sweeper 10. Optionally, the squeegee 120 can be
formed of a resilient polymeric material, such as ethylene
propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a
rubber copolymer such as nitrile butadiene rubber, or any material
known in the art of sufficient rigidity to remain substantially
undeformed during normal use of the sweeper 10.
[0122] The brushroll 108 has an uncompressed diameter 234 that
defines a circumference or outside surface 236 of the brushroll 108
in an uncompressed state. The brush chamber 118 can be configured
with a brushroll clearance that varies radially relative to the
brushroll rotational axis X. The brushroll clearance can vary from
positive to negative values. At some points about the radius, the
brush chamber 118 can have a positive clearance value, where the
brush chamber 118 is spaced from the outside surface 236 of the
brushroll 108 and the brushroll 108 is uncompressed. At other
points, the brush chamber 118 can have a negative clearance value,
where the brush chamber 118 interferes with the outside surface 236
of the brushroll 108 and the brushroll 108 is compressed. At yet
other points, the brush chamber 118 can have a zero clearance
value, where the brush chamber 118 just meets the outside surface
236 of the brushroll 108 but the brushroll 108 is uncompressed. Is
it noted that in operation, the base 14 moves over the surface to
be cleaned on wheels 112, 114.
[0123] An exemplary floor surface F is shown in FIG. 11 in phantom
line. FIGS. 2, 5, and 10 show the brushroll 108 uncompressed,
whereas in operation, the brushroll 108 may be compressed where it
engages the floor surface F as shown in FIG. 11, and at other
points as described in further detail below. In particular, the
bottom portion of the brushroll 108 can compress flat against the
floor surface F.
[0124] In the illustrated embodiment, where the brush chamber 118
is defined at least in part by the cover 110 and the ramp 222, the
brushroll clearance at various points can vary to increase or
decrease the compression of the brushroll 108 by the brush chamber
118 and increase or decrease the interference between the brush
chamber 118, the brushroll 108, and the floor surface F, thereby
balancing cleaning performance or efficacy of the sweeper 10 with
battery life.
[0125] For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the
brushroll clearance at points A, B, C, and D are configured to
balance cleaning performance with battery life. Optionally, one or
more of the brushroll clearance at points A, B, C, and D can depend
on the radius of the brushroll 108 and more particularly on the
length of the microfibers of the microfiber material 220.
[0126] The brushroll clearance at point A, i.e. between the
brushroll 108 and the curved forward end 170 of the cover 110 which
can wrap around and in front of the brushroll 108, can have a zero
clearance value, such that the inside surface of the forward end
170 just meets the outside surface 236 of the brushroll 108, and
the brushroll 108 is uncompressed at point A. Alternatively, the
brushroll clearance at point A can be in the range of -5 mm to +5
mm, or .gtoreq.-half the length of the microfibers of the
microfiber material 220, i.e. the uncompressed diameter 234 of the
brushroll 108 will be compressed by a distance equal to half the
length of the microfibers of the microfiber material 220 at point
A.
[0127] The brushroll clearance at point B, i.e. between the
brushroll 108 and the interference edge 228 of the cover 110, can
have a negative clearance value, such that the interference edge
228 interferes with the outside surface 236 of the brushroll 108
and the brushroll 108 is compressed at point B. In one non-limiting
example, the brushroll clearance at point B can be -7 mm, i.e. the
uncompressed diameter 234 of the brushroll 108 will be compressed
by 7 mm at point B. Alternatively, the brushroll clearance at point
B can be in the range of -7 mm to +2 mm, or .gtoreq.-the length of
the microfibers of the microfiber material 220, i.e. the
uncompressed diameter 234 of the brushroll 108 will be compressed
by a distance equal to the length of the microfibers of the
microfiber material 220 at point B.
[0128] The brushroll clearance at point C, i.e. between the
brushroll 108 and the trailing edge 230 of the inlet opening 116,
can have a negative clearance value, such that the trailing edge
230 of the inlet opening 116 interferes with the outside surface
236 of the brushroll 108 and the brushroll 108 is compressed at
point C. In one non-limiting example, the brushroll clearance at
point C can be -5 mm, i.e. the uncompressed diameter 234 of the
brushroll 108 will be compressed by 5 mm at point C. Alternatively,
the brushroll clearance at point C can be in the range of -5 mm to
0 mm, or .gtoreq.-the length of the microfibers of the microfiber
material 220, i.e. the uncompressed diameter 234 of the brushroll
108 will be compressed by a distance equal to the length of the
microfibers of the microfiber material 220 at point C.
[0129] The brushroll clearance at point D, i.e. between the
brushroll 108 and the floor surface F, can have a negative
clearance value, such that the floor surface F interferes with the
outside surface 236 of the brushroll 108 and the brushroll 108 is
compressed at point D. In one non-limiting example, the brushroll
clearance at point D can be -8 mm, i.e. the uncompressed diameter
234 of the brushroll 108 will be compressed by 8 mm at point D. It
is noted that the brushroll clearance at point D, i.e. between the
brushroll 108 and the floor surface F, can be a function of the
spatial relationship between the brushroll 108, the brush chamber
118, and the wheels 112, 114. Alternatively, the brushroll
clearance at point D can be in the range of -8 mm to 0 mm, or
.gtoreq.-the length of the microfibers of the microfiber material
220, i.e. the uncompressed diameter 234 of the brushroll 108 will
be compressed by a distance equal to the length of the microfibers
of the microfiber material 220 at point D.
[0130] FIG. 11 also shows the squeegee 120 unbent, whereas in
operation, the squeegee 120 may be bent where it engages the floor
surface F. On a forward stroke of the sweeper 10, the squeegee 120
can bend backward about the trailing edge 230, with the smooth
forward-facing surface the squeegee 120 in contact with the floor
surface F, and on a backstroke of the sweeper 10, the squeegee 120
can bend forward with the rear surface having the plurality of nubs
232 in contact with the floor surface F.
[0131] The at least one cover latch 168 can be provided to
releasably secure the cover 110 on the base housing 104. The at
least one cover latch 168 can be received in a latch catch 250 (see
FIG. 10) provided on the base housing 104, and be biased by a
spring 252 to a latched position. The at least one cover latch 168
can be configured to releasably latch or retain, but not lock, the
cover 110 to the base housing 104, such that a user can
conveniently apply sufficient force to the cover 110 itself, such
as via the carry handle 178, to pull the cover 110 off the base
housing 104. In one embodiment, the cover 110 can include a pair of
cover latches 168, and the base housing 104 can have a
corresponding pair of latch catches 250. More particularly, the
latch catches 250 can be provided on the top housing 132 of the
base housing 104.
[0132] A sweeper 10' according to a second embodiment of the
invention is described with respect to FIGS. 12-14. Many of the
components of the second embodiment are similar to the first
embodiment, and like features are indicated with the same reference
numeral bearing a prime (') symbol. Any one or combination of the
previously described features, including transversely-slidable
collection cup, hybrid brushroll, interference edge, squeegee, or
brushroll chamber with varying brushroll clearances, can be
incorporated into this embodiment of the invention.
[0133] In the second embodiment, the upright body 12' is swivelably
mounted base 14' through a swivel joint 260. The swivel joint 260
can comprises a multi-axis Cardan joint as shown in the figures,
but can alternatively comprise a ball joint to swivelably connect
the base 14' to the upright body 12'. The swivel joint 260 is
adapted to pivotally connect the base 14' to the upright body 12'
and defines a first axis 262, which is generally perpendicular to
the direction of travel of the sweeper 10. The upright body 12' can
be pivoted from front-to-back with respect to the base 14' about
axis 262. The swivel joint 260 further defines a second axis 264,
which is generally parallel to the direction of travel of the
sweeper 10, and about which the upright body 12' can be pivoted
from side-to-side with respect to the base 14'. Accordingly, the
swivel joint 260 is configured to permit the base 14' to swivel
multi-axially with respect the upright body 12'. Wiring and/or
conduits can optionally supply electricity and/or liquid (or other
fluids) between the base 14' and the upright body 12', or vice
versa, and can extend though the swivel joint 260.
[0134] The upright body 12' can pivot, via the swivel joint 260, to
an upright or storage position, an example of which is shown in
FIG. 12, in which the upright body 12' is oriented substantially
upright relative to the surface to be cleaned and in which the
sweeper 10' is self-supporting, i.e. the sweeper 10' can stand
upright without being supported by something else. A locking
mechanism (not shown) can be provided to lock the swivel joint 260
against movement about at least one of the axes 262, 264 of the
swivel joint 260 in the storage position, which can allows the
sweeper 10' to be self-supporting. From the storage position, the
upright body 12' can pivot, via the swivel joint 260 to a reclined
or use position (not shown), in which the upright body 12' is
pivoted rearwardly relative to the base 14' to form an acute angle
with the surface to be cleaned. In this position, a user can
partially support the apparatus by holding the hand grip 22'.
[0135] In one embodiment, the base 14' of the sweeper 10' can
comprise a single rear wheel 266 disposed at a rear of the base
14'. The use of a single rear wheel 266 rather than a pair of
wheels can reduce the overall contact area of the sweeper 10' with
the surface to be cleaned, thereby reducing the occurrence and
appearance of streaks caused by wheels rolling on a cleaned wet
surface. A pair of forward wheels (not shown) can optionally be
disposed on the base 14' forwardly of the single rear wheel 266.
The rear wheel 266 can be centered below the upright body 12', and
optionally below the swivel joint 260 coupling the upright body 12'
to the base 14'. More particularly, the rear wheel 266 can be
rotatably mounted to a yoke 268 of the swivel joint 260, with the
rotational axis of the wheel 266 coincident with the first axis 262
about which the upright body 12' can be pivoted from front-to-back
with respect to the base 14'. The yoke 268 is pivotally connected
to the base 14' on lateral sides thereof opposing the wheel 266.
The yoke 268 is further fixed with the upright body 12', either
directly or via an extension (not shown) on a lower end of the
upright body 12', which can particularly extend from a lower end of
the frame 18'.
[0136] In the second embodiment, the handle 16' is pivotal with
respect to the frame 18' via a handle pivot or coupler 270 to
rotate or fold down toward the frame 18'. In particular, the handle
16' can pivot between an extended position, shown in FIG. 12, to a
folded position (not shown). One example of a suitable handle pivot
or coupler is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,924,842, issued Mar. 27,
2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
[0137] The sweeper 10' can include at least one user interface 272,
274 through which a user can interact with the sweeper 10'. The
user interface 272, 274 can enable operation and control of the
sweeper 10' from the user's end, and can also provide feedback
information from the sweeper 10' to the user. The user interface
272, 274 can be electrically coupled with electrical components,
including, but not limited to, circuitry electrically connected to
various components of the fluid delivery and collection systems of
the sweeper 10', as described in further detail below.
[0138] In the illustrated embodiment, the sweeper 10' includes a
human-machine interface (HMI) 272 having one or more input
controls, such as but not limited to buttons, triggers, toggles,
keys, switches, or the like, operably connected to systems in the
sweeper 10' to affect and control its operation. The sweeper 10'
also includes a status user interface (SUI) 274 which communicates
a condition or status of the sweeper 10' to the user. The SUI 274
can communicate visually and/or audibly, and can optionally include
one or more input controls. The HMI 272 and the SUI 274 can be
provided as separate interfaces or can be integrated with each
other, such as in a composite use interface, graphical user
interface, or multimedia user interface. As shown, the HMI 272 can
be provided at a front side of the hand grip 22', with the trigger
24' provided on a rear side of the hand grip 22', opposite the HMI
272, and the SUI 274 can be provided on a front side of the frame
18', below the handle 16' and above the base 14', and optionally
above the supply tank 20', which can optionally be provided on a
rear side of the frame 18' as shown. In other embodiments, the HMI
272 and SUI 274 can be provided elsewhere on the sweeper 10'. One
example of a suitable HMI and/or SUI is disclosed in U.S.
Provisional Application No. 62/747,922, filed Oct. 19, 2018, now
PCT/US2019/057196 filed Oct. 21, 2019, which is incorporated herein
by reference in its entirety. Either user interface 272, 274 can
comprise a proximity-triggered interface, as described in the '922
application.
[0139] The HMI 272 can include one or more input controls 276 in
register with a printed circuit board (PCB, not shown) within the
hand grip 22'. In one embodiment, one input control 276 is a power
input control which controls the supply of power to one or more
electrical components of the sweeper 10', as explained in further
detail below, one of which may be the SUI 274. The input control
276 can comprise a button, trigger, toggle, key, switch, or the
like, or any combination thereof. In one example, the input control
276 can comprise a capacitive button.
[0140] The SUI 274 can include a display 278, such as, but not
limited to, an LED matrix display or a touchscreen. In one
embodiment, the display 278 can include multiple status indicators
which can display various detailed apparatus status information,
such as, but not limited to, battery status, Wi-Fi connection
status, cleaning fluid level in the supply tank, dirt/liquid level
in the collection cup, filter status, floor type, self-cleaning, or
any number of other status information. The status indicators can
be a visual indicator, and may include any of a variety of lights,
such as LEDs, textual displays, graphical displays, or any variety
of known status indicators.
[0141] The SUI 274 can include at least one input control 280,
which can be adjacent the display 278 or provided on the display
278. The input control 280 can comprise a button, trigger, toggle,
key, switch, or the like, or any combination thereof. In one
example, the input control 280 can comprise a capacitive button. In
one example, the input control 280 can comprise a self-cleaning
mode input control which initiates a self-cleaning mode of
operation. Examples of self-cleaning cycles are disclosed in U.S.
Patent Application Publication No. 2018/0344112, filed May 31,
2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
[0142] FIG. 14 is a schematic control diagram for the sweeper 10'.
The controller 196' of the sweeper 10' can be operably coupled with
the various function systems of the sweeper 10' for controlling its
operation. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 196' is
operably coupled with the HMI 272 for receiving inputs from a user
and with the SUI 274 for providing one or more indicia about the
status of the sweeper 10'. In one embodiment, the controller 196'
can comprise a microcontroller unit (MCU) that contains at least
one central processing unit (CPU). The controller 196' can be
provided at various locations on the sweeper 10', such as being
integrated with the SUI 274. Alternatively, the controller 196' can
be integrated with the HMI 272, or can be separate from both the
HMI 272 and SUI 274.
[0143] As discussed above, the power input control 276 which
controls the supply of power to one or more electrical components
of the sweeper 10', and in the illustrated embodiment controls the
supply of power to one or more of the SUI 274, the pump 52', and/or
the brush motor 190'. Electrical components of the sweeper 10',
including the pump 52' for the flow control system and/or the brush
motor 190' for the brushroll 108', can be electrically coupled to a
power source such as battery 194' or a power cord plugged into a
household outlet. In the illustrated embodiment, the pump 52' can
be an electrically-actuated pump, such as, but not limited to, a
solenoid pump having a single, dual, or variable speed.
Alternatively, the pump 52' can be a mechanically actuated by the
trigger 24' as described above for the first embodiment.
[0144] The battery 194' can be located within a battery housing 282
located on the upright body 12' or base 14' of the sweeper 10',
which can protect and retain the battery 194' on the sweeper 10'.
In the illustrated embodiment, the battery housing 282 is provided
on a lower end of the frame 18' of the upright body 12'.
[0145] A sweeper 10'' according to a third embodiment of the
invention is described with respect to FIG. 15. Many of the
components of the third embodiment are similar to the first
embodiment, and like features are indicated with the same reference
numeral bearing a double prime ('') symbol. Any one or combination
of the previously described features, including
transversely-slidable collection cup, hybrid brushroll,
interference edge, squeegee, or brushroll chamber with varying
brushroll clearances, can be incorporated into this embodiment of
the invention.
[0146] In the third embodiment, the sweeper 10'' has a battery in
the form of a rechargeable battery pack 290 that is removable from
the base 14''. The battery pack 290 has a USB charging port 292
that can be used to charge the battery. A USB charging cable (not
shown) can be provided for plugging the sweeper 10'' into a
household outlet.
[0147] The battery pack 290 can be removable from a battery
compartment 294 located on or within the base 14'', which can
protect and retain the battery pack 290 on the sweeper 10''.
Optionally, the battery compartment 294 can be formed as an
open-topped pocket or cavity on the base housing 104''. The battery
compartment 294 can be rearward of the cover 110'' so that the
battery pack 290 can be removed without having to remove the cover
110''.
[0148] As shown herein, the USB charging port 292 can be accessible
to a user from the exterior of the sweeper 10'' for attachment of
the USB charging cable. The battery compartment 294 can have an
aperture 296 in register with the USB charging port 292 when. In
the illustrated embodiment, the aperture 296 is provided in the
base housing 104'', and more particularly on the rear side of the
bottom housing 130'', although other locations are possible.
[0149] A sweeper 300 according to a fourth embodiment of the
invention is described with respect to FIGS. 16-17. The sweeper 300
of the third embodiment is an autonomous or robotic sweeper, and
mounts the components of the various functional systems of the
sweeper 300 in an autonomously moveable unit or housing 302,
including a fluid delivery system, a collection system, and an
autonomous drive system. Any of the previously described features
of fluid delivery and collection system in the first and second
embodiments, including transversely-slidable collection cup, hybrid
brushroll, interference edge, squeegee, or brushroll chamber with
varying brushroll clearances, can be incorporated into this
embodiment of the invention.
[0150] The sweeper 300 can include at least one user interface 304
through which a user can interact with the sweeper 300. The
interface 304 can enable operation and control of the sweeper 300
from the user's end, and can also provide feedback information from
the sweeper 300 to the user. The user interface 304 can be
electrically coupled with electrical components, including, but not
limited to, circuitry electrically connected to various components
of the fluid delivery and collection systems of the sweeper 300.
The user interface 304 can have one or more input controls, such as
but not limited to buttons, triggers, toggles, keys, switches, or
the like, operably connected to systems in the sweeper 300 to
affect and control its operation. In one example, a power button
306 controls the supply of power to one or more electrical
components of the sweeper 300. The user interface 304 communicate
visually and/or audibly. Additionally or alternatively, a user
interface for the sweeper 300 can be provided as an application
executed on a smartphone for controlling one or more functions of
the sweeper 300.
[0151] The sweeper 300 can further include a controller 308
operably coupled with the various function systems of the sweeper
300 for controlling its operation. The controller 308 can be a
microcontroller unit (MCU) that contains at least one central
processing unit (CPU). The controller 308 can be operably coupled
with the user interface 304 for receiving inputs from a user and
for providing one or more indicia about the status of the sweeper
300 to the user, and can further be operably coupled with at least
one sensor 310 for receiving input about the environment and can
use the sensor input to control the operation of the sweeper 300.
Some non-limiting examples of sensors 310 include distance sensors
for determining the distance of the sweeper relative to obstacles,
cliff sensors that provide distance feedback so that the sweeper
can avoid excessive drops such as stairwells or ledges, bump
sensors for determining front or side impacts to the sweeper, wall
following sensors that provide distance feedback so that the
sweeper can follow near a wall without contacting the wall,
accelerometers to sense linear, rotational and magnetic field
acceleration, lift-up sensors which detect when the sweeper is
lifted off the surface to be cleaned, such as when the user picks
up the sweeper, and floor condition sensors, such as an infrared
dirt sensor, a stain sensor, an odor sensor, and/or a wet mess
sensor, for detecting a condition of the surface to be cleaned.
[0152] The autonomous sweeper 300 can include a power supply
on-board the housing 302, which can be a rechargeable battery 312
(e.g. a battery pack or a plurality of battery cells, such as a
lithium ion battery or battery pack.
[0153] The autonomous drive system is configured for autonomously
moving the sweeper 300 over the surface to be cleaned. The sweeper
300 can be configured to move randomly about a surface while
cleaning the floor surface, using input from various sensors to
change direction or adjust its course as needed to avoid obstacles,
or can include a navigation/mapping system for guiding the movement
of the sweeper 300 over the surface to be cleaned. In one
embodiment, the sweeper 300 includes a navigation and path planning
system that is operably coupled with the drive system. The system
builds and stores a map of the environment in which the sweeper 300
is used, and plans paths to methodically clean the available area.
An artificial barrier system (not shown) can optionally be provided
with the sweeper 300 for containing the sweeper 300 within a
user-determined boundary.
[0154] The drive system can include drive wheels 314 for driving
the autonomous sweeper 300 across a surface to be cleaned. The
drive wheels 314 can be operated by a common drive motor or
individual drive motors (not shown) coupled with the drive wheels
314 by a transmission, which may include a gear train assembly or
another suitable transmission. The drive system can receive inputs
from the controller 308 for driving the sweeper 300 across a floor,
based on inputs from the navigation/mapping system. The drive
wheels 314 can be driven in a forward or reverse direction in order
to move the housing 302 forwardly or rearwardly, and can be
operated simultaneously or individually in order to turn the
housing 302 in a desired direction. The controller 308 can receive
input from the navigation/mapping system for directing the drive
system to move the sweeper 300 over the surface to be cleaned. The
navigation/mapping system can include a memory that stores maps for
navigation and inputs from various sensors, which is used to guide
the movement of the sweeper 300.
[0155] The fluid delivery system can include a supply tank 318 for
storing a supply of cleaning fluid and at least one fluid
distributor 320 in fluid communication with the supply tank 318 for
depositing a cleaning fluid onto the surface. The cleaning fluid
can be a liquid such as water or a cleaning solution specifically
formulated for hard surface cleaning. The fluid distributor 320 can
be one or more spray nozzles provided on the housing 302 of the
sweeper 300. Alternatively, the fluid distributor 320 can be a
manifold having multiple outlets. A fluid delivery pump 322 is
provided in the fluid pathway between the supply tank 318 and the
fluid distributor 320 to control the flow of fluid to the fluid
distributor 320. Various combinations of optional components can be
incorporated into the fluid delivery system as is commonly known in
the art, such as a heater for heating the cleaning fluid before it
is applied to the surface or one more fluid control and mixing
valves.
[0156] The fluid distributor 320 can be positioned to dispense
cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned, either directly onto
the surface to be cleaned, such as by having an outlet of the fluid
distributor 320 positioned in opposition to the surface, or
indirectly onto the surface to be cleaned, such as by having an
outlet of the fluid distributor 320 positioned to dispense onto a
an agitator such as a brushroll 326. In one embodiment, the fluid
distributor 320 is positioned to dispense cleaning fluid onto the
surface to be cleaned underneath the housing 302.
[0157] Alternatively, the fluid distributor 320 can dispense
cleaning fluid directly onto a surface to be cleaned outwardly from
the housing 302 so that the user can see exactly where cleaning
fluid is being dispensed. For example, the fluid distributor 320
can dispense cleaning fluid forwardly, rearwardly, laterally, or
anywhere outward from the housing 302 of the sweeper 300. As shown
herein, the fluid distributor 320 is positioned on the exterior of
the housing 302 to spray cleaning fluid forwardly of the sweeper
300, such that both the fluid distributor 320 and the cleaning
fluid it dispenses is easily viewed during operation of the sweeper
300.
[0158] The autonomous sweeper 300 can include a brush chamber 324
at a front of the housing 302 in which the brushroll 326 is
mounted. As used herein for the sweeper 300, "front" or "forward"
and variations thereof are defined relative to the direction of
forward travel of the autonomous sweeper 300, unless otherwise
specified. The brushroll 326 is mounted for rotation about a
substantially horizontal axis, relative to the surface over which
the housing 302 moves. In one embodiment, the brushroll 326 can be
a hybrid brushroll as described above with reference to FIG. 10,
although the autonomous sweeper 300 can include any embodiment of
brushroll otherwise described herein. A brush motor 328 can be
provided within the housing 302 to drive the brushroll 326. A drive
transmission (not shown), for example including a belt, operably
connects a motor shaft of the motor 328 with the brushroll 326 for
transmitting rotational motion of the motor shaft to the brushroll
326. Alternatively, the brushroll 326 can be driven mechanically by
the autonomous movement of the sweeper 300.
[0159] The collection system can include an inlet opening 330, a
collection cup 332 for collecting liquid and dirt from the surface
for later disposal, and the agitator or brushroll 326. The inlet
opening 330 can be provided on a lower side 334 of the housing 302
adapted to be adjacent the surface to be cleaned as the housing 302
moves autonomously across a surface. The brushroll 326 can be
provided adjacent to the inlet opening 330 for sweeping the surface
to be cleaned so that the dirt and liquid swept up by the brushroll
326 is mechanically propelled into the collection cup 332.
[0160] In one embodiment, a squeegee 336 can be provided adjacent a
trailing edge 338 of the inlet opening 330, behind the brushroll
326, in order to aid in dirt and liquid collection and is
configured to contact the surface as the housing 302 moves across
the surface to be cleaned. The squeegee 336 can be an elongated
blade that generally spans at least the width of the inlet opening
330, or can generally span the width of the housing 302, and can be
similar to the squeegee as described above with reference to FIG.
11, although the autonomous sweeper 300 can include any embodiment
of squeegee or wiper blade otherwise described herein.
[0161] Optionally, a bottom housing or sole plate 340 can at least
partially retain the brushroll 326 in the brush chamber 324, and
can include the inlet opening 330 of the collection system. The
squeegee 336 can be supported by the bottom housing or sole plate
340.
[0162] The brushroll 326 can be mounted at the front of the
autonomous sweeper 300, whereas brushrolls on most autonomous
surface cleaners are mounted near middle of the unit, and hidden
under an opaque plastic housing. The housing 302 of the illustrated
sweeper 300 can be configured to accommodate the brushroll 326 in
the forward location, such as by having an overall "D-shape" when
viewed from above, with the housing 302 having a straight front
edge 342 and a rounded rear edge 344. The housing 302 can further
include lateral sides 346, 348 that generally extend between the
straight front edge 342 and the rounded rear edge 344, and can be
straight, rounded, or otherwise contoured. As described in more
detail below, in one embodiment, the collection cup 332 can be
removable though one of the lateral sides 346, 348 of the housing
302.
[0163] A removable cover 350 can be provided on the housing 302
which encloses one or both of the collection cup 332 and the
brushroll 326 or other agitator. The cover 350 can be releasably
secured to the housing 302 by at least one cover latch 352, which
can be substantially similar to the cover latch 168 described above
with reference to FIG. 11, although the autonomous sweeper 300 can
include any embodiment of cover latch otherwise described herein.
The cover 350 be at least partially formed from a translucent or
transparent material, such that an interior space of the sweeper
300, such as one or both of the brushroll 326 and a collection
chamber 354 defined by the collection cup 332, is visible to the
user through the cover 350, as described above with reference to
FIG. 5.
[0164] When secured on the housing 302, the cover 350 can define at
least a portion of the brush chamber 324 which partially encloses
the brushroll 326. Additionally or alternatively, the cover 350 can
define at least a portion of the collection chamber 354 when the
collection cup 332 is installed on the housing 302. In the
illustrated embodiment, the cover 350 includes a curved forward end
356 which can wrap around and in front of the brushroll 326 to
define the brush chamber 324 and a rearward end 358 which can
extend over the collection chamber 354 to cover the open top of the
collection cup 332. The cover 350 can define at least the straight
front edge 342 of the housing 302; more particularly, the curved
forward end 356 of the cover 350 can define at least the straight
front edge 342 of the housing 302.
[0165] Optionally, the brushroll 326 can be configured to be
removed by the user from the housing 302, such as for cleaning
and/or drying the brushroll 326. The brushroll 326 can be removably
mounted in the brush chamber 324 by a brushroll latch (not shown),
which can be substantially similar to the brushroll latch 180
described above with reference to FIG. 5, although the autonomous
sweeper 300 can include any embodiment of brushroll latch otherwise
described herein. The cover 350 can be removed to expose the
brushroll 326, which can then be removed from above as previously
described for FIG. 5.
[0166] The collection cup 332 can any type of collection bin or
tank suitable for the purposes described herein, including the
collection of dirt and liquid. The collection cup 332 has a
generally open top that defines an entrance opening 360 into the
collection chamber 354 and which is in fluid communication with the
brush chamber 324. Dirt and liquid that is swept up by the
brushroll 326 can be propelled through the entrance opening 360
into the collection cup 332. In the illustrated embodiment, the
collection cup 332 is substantially similar to the collection cup
106 described above with reference to FIG. 5, although the
autonomous sweeper 300 can include any embodiment of collection cup
otherwise described herein.
[0167] The collection cup 332 is removable from the housing 302 for
emptying. The housing 302 can include a collection cup receiver,
such as a collection cup pocket 362, for receiving the collection
cup 332. The collection cup 332 can slide into the pocket 362 to
install the collection cup 332 on the housing 302 and can slide out
of the pocket 362 to remove the collection cup 332 from the housing
302.
[0168] In one embodiment, the collection cup 332 can be removed
through the lateral side 346 of the housing 302 for emptying. The
collection cup 332 can slide out of the housing 302 transversely to
remove the collection cup 332 from the housing 302. In the
embodiment illustrated herein with the pocket 362, the pocket 362
can comprise a pocket opening 364 at the lateral side 346 of the
housing 302 through which the collection cup 332 can traversely
slide. Optionally, the sweeper 300 can include a collection cup
latch for securing the collection cup 332 to the housing 302 which
can be substantially similar to the collection cup latch 152
described above with reference to FIGS. 7-9, although the
autonomous sweeper 300 can include any embodiment of collection cup
latch otherwise described herein.
[0169] In the embodiment shown herein, the collection cup 332 can
be removed from the housing 302 for emptying, without removing the
cover 350. Alternatively, the collection cup 332 can be coupled
with or otherwise combined with the cover 350 such that removing
the cover 350 also removes the collection cup 332 for easy cleanout
of both the brush chamber 324 and the collection cup 332 at the
same time.
[0170] As disclosed above, the brushroll 326 can be provided
adjacent to the inlet opening 330 for agitating the surface to be
cleaned so that the dirt and liquid swept up by the brushroll 326
is mechanically propelled into the collection cup 332. A ramp 366
can be provided at a rear portion of the brush chamber 324 for
guiding dirt and liquid toward the entrance opening 360 into the
collection chamber 354. Optionally, the ramp 366 itself can define
part of the brush chamber 324, particularly a rear part of the
brush chamber 324. The ramp 366 can extend upwardly from the rear
side of the inlet opening 330 to the entrance opening 360. The ramp
366 can optionally form a portion of a divider 368 partitioning the
brush chamber 324 off from the collection cup pocket 362 in the
housing 302, and can aid in trapping any dirt or liquid removed
from the surface to be cleaned by the sweeper 300 in the collection
cup 332. In at least some embodiments, the ramp 366 can have an
angle with respect to the floor surface F of >0 degrees and
.ltoreq.90 degrees.
[0171] The trailing edge 338 can further be defined by a lower end
of the ramp 366. As the brushroll 326 rotates, the trailing edge
338 compresses a portion of the brushroll 326, and the brushroll
326 can remain compressed against the lower end of the ramp 366 a
short distance before diverging from the ramp 366. In the
illustrated embodiment, the squeegee 336 can be coupled with the
trailing edge 338, and therefore supported by the ramp 336, or can
be supported by the bottom housing or sole plate 340 as described
above.
[0172] In at least some embodiments of the brushroll 326, liquid
swept up by the rotating brushroll 326 can spin off the brushroll
326 and fly backwards into the collection cup 332 in a similar
manner as for the first embodiment, described above with respect to
FIG. 11. As with the first embodiment, some liquid may strike an
upper inside surface 370 of the cover 350 before dropping or
flowing into the collection cup 332. In at least some embodiments,
the upper inside surface 370 can have an angle with respect to the
floor surface F of .gtoreq.0 degrees (i.e. parallel to the floor
surface F) and .ltoreq.45 degrees.
[0173] The cover 350 can include an interference edge 372 facing
the brush chamber 324 and interfacing with the brushroll 326. The
interference edge 372 can be substantially similar to the
interference edge 228 described above with reference to FIG. 11,
although the autonomous sweeper 300 can include any embodiment of
interference edge otherwise described herein. Briefly, the
interference edge 372 is configured to engage with a leading
portion of the brushroll 326, and as the brushroll 326 rotates, the
interference edge 372 can scrape excess liquid off the brushroll
326 and can help redistribute the liquid evenly along the length of
the brushroll 326, which can help to reduce streaking on the
surface to be cleaned.
[0174] The brushroll 326 has an uncompressed diameter 374 that
defines a circumference or outside surface 376 of the brushroll 326
in an uncompressed state. The brush chamber 324 can be configured
with a brushroll clearance that varies radially relative to the
brushroll rotational axis X. The brushroll clearance can vary from
positive to negative values, as described above for the first
embodiment. Briefly, in the illustrated embodiment, where the brush
chamber 324 is defined at least in part by the cover 350 and the
ramp 366, the brushroll clearance at various points can vary to
increase or decrease the compression of the brushroll 326 and
interference between the brush chamber 324, the brushroll 326, and
the floor surface F, thereby balancing cleaning performance or
efficacy of the autonomous sweeper 300 with battery life. In one
example, such as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the brushroll
clearance at points A, B, C, and D can be defined as described
above for the first embodiment in FIG. 11, and can optionally have
the same values.
[0175] To the extent not already described, the different features
and structures of the various embodiments of the invention, may be
used in combination with each other as desired, or may be used
separately. That one surface cleaning apparatus is illustrated
herein as having all of these features does not mean that all of
these features must be used in combination, but rather done so here
for brevity of description. Thus, the various features of the
different embodiments may be mixed and matched in various cleaning
apparatus configurations as desired to form new embodiments,
whether or not the new embodiments are expressly described.
[0176] The above description relates to general and specific
embodiments of the disclosure. However, various alterations and
changes can be made without departing from the spirit and broader
aspects of the disclosure as defined in the appended claims, which
are to be interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent
law including the doctrine of equivalents. As such, this disclosure
is presented for illustrative purposes and should not be
interpreted as an exhaustive description of all embodiments of the
disclosure or to limit the scope of the claims to the specific
elements illustrated or described in connection with these
embodiments. Any reference to elements in the singular, for
example, using the articles "a," "an," "the," or "said," is not to
be construed as limiting the element to the singular.
[0177] Likewise, it is also to be understood that the appended
claims are not limited to express and particular compounds,
compositions, or methods described in the detailed description,
which may vary between particular embodiments that fall within the
scope of the appended claims. With respect to any Markush groups
relied upon herein for describing particular features or aspects of
various embodiments, different, special, and/or unexpected results
may be obtained from each member of the respective Markush group
independent from all other Markush members. Each member of a
Markush group may be relied upon individually and or in combination
and provides adequate support for specific embodiments within the
scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *