U.S. patent application number 17/034862 was filed with the patent office on 2021-02-04 for multi-functional cleaning and floor care system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Kaivac, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Kaivac, Inc.. Invention is credited to Joshua L. Harrell, Robert W. Kyde, David W. Lloyd, John T. Richter, Robert S. Robinson.
Application Number | 20210030237 17/034862 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005109794 |
Filed Date | 2021-02-04 |
![](/patent/app/20210030237/US20210030237A1-20210204-D00000.png)
![](/patent/app/20210030237/US20210030237A1-20210204-D00001.png)
![](/patent/app/20210030237/US20210030237A1-20210204-D00002.png)
![](/patent/app/20210030237/US20210030237A1-20210204-D00003.png)
![](/patent/app/20210030237/US20210030237A1-20210204-D00004.png)
![](/patent/app/20210030237/US20210030237A1-20210204-D00005.png)
![](/patent/app/20210030237/US20210030237A1-20210204-D00006.png)
![](/patent/app/20210030237/US20210030237A1-20210204-D00007.png)
![](/patent/app/20210030237/US20210030237A1-20210204-D00008.png)
![](/patent/app/20210030237/US20210030237A1-20210204-D00009.png)
![](/patent/app/20210030237/US20210030237A1-20210204-D00010.png)
United States Patent
Application |
20210030237 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Robinson; Robert S. ; et
al. |
February 4, 2021 |
Multi-Functional Cleaning and Floor Care System
Abstract
A multi-functional cleaning and floor care system may have: a
fresh liquid reservoir; a vacuum assembly including a vacuum
recovery tank and a vacuum motor assembly; a wheeled chassis
configured to support at least one of the fresh liquid reservoir
and the vacuum recovery tank; and a spigot fluidly connected to the
fresh liquid reservoir, with the spigot adjustable between a fully
open position and a fully closed position. The system also may
have: a liquid spreader assembly connected to at least one of the
fresh liquid reservoir, the vacuum assembly, and the wheeled
chassis, with the liquid spreader assembly including a frame and a
spreader pad; and a squeegee head assembly connected to at least
one of the fresh liquid reservoir, the vacuum assembly, and the
wheeled chassis, with the squeegee head assembly fluidly
connectable to the vacuum recovery tank.
Inventors: |
Robinson; Robert S.;
(Hamilton, OH) ; Harrell; Joshua L.; (Cincinnati,
OH) ; Kyde; Robert W.; (Fairfield, OH) ;
Lloyd; David W.; (Hamilton, OH) ; Richter; John
T.; (Hamilton, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Kaivac, Inc. |
Hamilton |
OH |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Kaivac, Inc.
Hamilton
OH
|
Family ID: |
1000005109794 |
Appl. No.: |
17/034862 |
Filed: |
September 28, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13563718 |
Jul 31, 2012 |
10786131 |
|
|
17034862 |
|
|
|
|
61548221 |
Oct 18, 2011 |
|
|
|
61513662 |
Jul 31, 2011 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 11/30 20130101;
A47L 11/4044 20130101; A47L 11/4055 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47L 11/30 20060101
A47L011/30; A47L 11/40 20060101 A47L011/40 |
Claims
1. A multi-functional cleaning and floor care system, comprising: a
reservoir defining an interior space operable to hold a fresh
cleaning liquid; a vacuum recovery tank; a vacuum motor assembly
fluidly connected to the vacuum recovery tank; a wheeled chassis
configured to support at least one of the fresh liquid reservoir
and the vacuum recovery tank; a spigot fluidly connected to the
reservoir interior space, the spigot adjustable between a fully
open position and a fully closed position, whereby when the
reservoir contains a fresh cleaning liquid, a user may regulate the
flow of the fresh cleaning liquid from the reservoir through the
spigot by adjusting the spigot; a liquid spreader assembly
connected to at least one of the fresh liquid reservoir, the wet
vacuum assembly, and the wheeled chassis, the liquid spreader
assembly including a frame and a spreader pad; and a squeegee head
assembly connected to at least one of the fresh liquid reservoir,
the wet vacuum assembly, and the wheeled chassis, the squeegee head
assembly fluidly connectable to the vacuum recovery tank, the
liquid spreader assembly operable to spread on a floor surface at
least a portion of the fresh cleaning liquid from the reservoir,
and the squeegee head assembly operable to vacuum at least a
portion of the liquid on the floor surface into the vacuum recovery
tank.
2. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 1
wherein the liquid spreader assembly is connected to the
reservoir.
3. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 2
wherein the liquid spreader assembly is releasably connected to the
reservoir.
4. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 1
wherein the liquid spreader assembly is connectable and
disconnectable by a user without the use of a tool.
5. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 1
wherein the squeegee head assembly is connected to the
reservoir.
6. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 5
wherein the squeegee head assembly is releasably connected to the
reservoir.
7. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 1
wherein the squeegee head assembly is connectable and
disconnectable by a user without the use of a tool.
8. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 1
wherein the liquid spreader assembly is moveable to an up position
and a down position by a user without the use of a tool.
9. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 1
wherein the squeegee head assembly is moveable to an up position
and a down position by a user without the use of a tool.
10. A multi-functional cleaning and floor care system, comprising:
a reservoir defining an interior space operable to hold a fresh
cleaning liquid; a wheeled chassis configured to support the fresh
liquid reservoir; a spigot fluidly connected to the reservoir
interior space, the spigot adjustable between a fully open position
and a fully closed position, whereby when the reservoir contains a
fresh cleaning liquid, a user may regulate the flow of the fresh
cleaning liquid from the reservoir through the spigot by adjusting
the spigot; and a liquid spreader assembly connected to at least
one of the fresh liquid reservoir and the wheeled chassis, the
liquid spreader assembly including a frame and a spreader pad, the
liquid spreader assembly operable to spread on a floor surface at
least a portion of the fresh cleaning liquid from the
reservoir.
11. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 10
wherein the liquid spreader assembly is connected to the
reservoir.
12. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 11
wherein the liquid spreader assembly is releasably connected to the
reservoir.
13. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 10
wherein the liquid spreader assembly is connectable and
disconnectable by a user without the use of a tool.
14. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 10
wherein the liquid spreader assembly is moveable to an up position
and a down position by a user without the use of a tool.
15. A multi-functional cleaning and floor care system, comprising:
a reservoir defining an interior space operable to hold a fresh
cleaning liquid; a vacuum recovery tank; a vacuum motor assembly
fluidly connected to the vacuum recovery tank; a wheeled chassis
configured to support at least one of the fresh liquid reservoir
and the vacuum recovery tank; a spigot fluidly connected to the
reservoir interior space, the spigot adjustable between a fully
open position and a fully closed position, whereby when the
reservoir contains a fresh cleaning liquid, a user may regulate the
flow of the fresh cleaning liquid from the reservoir through the
spigot by adjusting the spigot; and a squeegee head assembly
connected to at least one of the fresh liquid reservoir, the wet
vacuum assembly, and the wheeled chassis, the squeegee head
assembly fluidly connectable to the vacuum recovery tank, the
squeegee head assembly operable to vacuum at least a portion of the
liquid on the floor surface into the vacuum recovery tank.
16. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 15
wherein the squeegee head assembly is connected to the
reservoir.
17. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 16
wherein the squeegee head assembly is releasably connected to the
reservoir.
18. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 15
wherein the squeegee head assembly is connectable and
disconnectable by a user without the use of a tool.
19. The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of claim 15
wherein the squeegee head assembly is moveable to an up position
and a down position by a user without the use of a tool.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent document is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/563,718, entitled "Multi-Functional
Cleaning and Floor Care System" and filed on Jul. 31, 2012. The
entire disclosure of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/563,718 is
incorporated into this patent document by reference. This patent
document claims the benefit of the filing date: of Provisional
Application No. 61/513,662, entitled "Floor Care System Including
Liquid Reservoir and Spreader" and filed on Jul. 31, 2011; and of
Provisional Application No. 61/548,221, entitled "Floor Care System
Including Liquid Reservoir, Spreader, and Vacuum" and filed on Oct.
18, 2011. The entire disclosure of each of Provisional Application
No. 61/513,662 and Provisional Application No. 61/548,221 is
incorporated into this patent document by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to cleaning and floor care machines,
and more particularly, to multi-functional cleaning and floor care
machines.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Floors can be difficult and expensive to maintain. If not
cared for properly, they not only become unsightly, they can drive
customers away, cause slip and fall accidents, and even become a
health hazard. Unfortunately, traditional mopping can make matters
worse. Mopping is slow, ineffective, and even potentially
dangerous--leaving floors slippery, wet, and with very few of the
soils and biopollutants removed. Grouted floors are even trickier.
In fact, during mopping, grout lines actually "squeegee" soil and
soap scum from mops. When the water evaporates, soils, mineral
deposits, soap scum, and potentially harmful biopollutants are left
to penetrate and coat the porous grout. Grout lines that started
out light gray or white soon become stained and darkened.
[0004] Traditional cleaning tools, like mops and wipes, remove very
few soils, germs and other indoor pollutants. In fact, studies show
they often simply spread them around. Then, workers end up crawling
around on their hands and knees wiping soiled surfaces and fixtures
by hand.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] In one aspect of the invention, a multi-functional cleaning
and floor care system may have a reservoir defining an interior
space operable to hold a fresh cleaning liquid, a vacuum recovery
tank, a vacuum motor assembly fluidly connected to the vacuum
recovery tank; and a wheeled chassis configured to support at least
one of the fresh liquid reservoir and the vacuum recovery tank. The
system also may have a spigot fluidly connected to the reservoir
interior space, with the spigot adjustable between a fully open
position and a fully closed position, whereby when the reservoir
contains a fresh cleaning liquid, a user may regulate the flow of
the fresh cleaning liquid from the reservoir through the spigot by
adjusting the spigot. In addition, the system may have: a liquid
spreader assembly connected to at least one of the fresh liquid
reservoir, the wet vacuum assembly, and the wheeled chassis, with
the liquid spreader assembly including a frame and a spreader pad;
and a squeegee head assembly connected to at least one of the fresh
liquid reservoir, the wet vacuum assembly, and the wheeled chassis,
the squeegee head assembly fluidly connectable to the vacuum
recovery tank. The liquid spreader assembly may be operable to
spread on a floor surface at least a portion of the fresh cleaning
liquid from the reservoir, and the squeegee head assembly may be
operable to vacuum at least a portion of the liquid on the floor
surface into the vacuum recovery tank.
[0006] In another aspect of the invention, a multi-functional
cleaning and floor care system may have a reservoir defining an
interior space operable to hold a fresh cleaning liquid, a wheeled
chassis configured to support the fresh liquid reservoir, and a
spigot fluidly connected to the reservoir interior space, the
spigot adjustable between a fully open position and a fully closed
position, whereby when the reservoir contains a fresh cleaning
liquid, a user may regulate the flow of the fresh cleaning liquid
from the reservoir through the spigot by adjusting the spigot. In
addition, the system may have a liquid spreader assembly connected
to at least one of the fresh liquid reservoir and the wheeled
chassis, with the liquid spreader assembly including a frame and a
spreader pad. The liquid spreader assembly may be operable to
spread on a floor surface at least a portion of the fresh cleaning
liquid from the reservoir.
[0007] In a further aspect of the invention, a multi-functional
cleaning and floor care system may have a reservoir defining an
interior space operable to hold a fresh cleaning liquid, a vacuum
recovery tank, a vacuum motor assembly fluidly connected to the
vacuum recovery tank, and a wheeled chassis configured to support
at least one of the fresh liquid reservoir and the vacuum recovery
tank. The system also may have a spigot fluidly connected to the
reservoir interior space, with the spigot adjustable between a
fully open position and a fully closed position, whereby when the
reservoir contains a fresh cleaning liquid, a user may regulate the
flow of the fresh cleaning liquid from the reservoir through the
spigot by adjusting the spigot. In addition, the system may have a
squeegee head assembly connected to at least one of the fresh
liquid reservoir, the wet vacuum assembly, and the wheeled chassis,
with the squeegee head assembly fluidly connectable to the vacuum
recovery tank. The squeegee head assembly also may be operable to
vacuum at least a portion of the liquid on the floor surface into
the vacuum recovery tank.
[0008] Additional aspects of the invention are directed to a liquid
spreader assembly, or a squeegee head assembly, or a combination of
a liquid spreader assembly and a squeegee head assembly--for use
with a multi-functional cleaning and floor care system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are a part of this
specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention. And
together with the general description of the invention given above,
and the detailed description of the drawings given below, the
accompanying drawings explain the principles of the invention.
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system, in accordance with
the principles of the invention;
[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a left side view of a portion of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of FIG. 1:
[0013] FIG. 4 is another left side view of a portion of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of FIG. 1, with the
liquid spreader assembly and the squeegee vacuum head assembly
shown in an up position;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the multi-functional cleaning and
floor care system of FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 6 is a portion of the bottom view of FIG. 5, enlarged
for magnification purposes;
[0016] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of FIG. 1, taken
along line 7-7 of FIG. 6;
[0017] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of FIG. 1, taken
along line 8-8 of FIG. 6;
[0018] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of FIG. 1, taken
along line 9-9 of FIG. 6;
[0019] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of FIG. 1, taken
along line 10-10 of FIG. 6:
[0020] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system, in accordance with
the principles of the invention;
[0021] FIG. 12 is a left side view of a portion of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of FIG. 11;
[0022] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a portion of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of FIG. 11;
[0023] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system, in accordance with
the principles of the invention;
[0024] FIG. 15 is a left side view of a portion of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of FIG. 14; and
[0025] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a portion of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of FIG. 14.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] To facilitate understanding of the invention, like reference
numbers are used for like elements in the various embodiments
described in detail below.
[0027] With reference to FIG. 1, the particular multi-functional
cleaning and floor care system embodiment 10 shown comprises a
fresh liquid reservoir assembly 12, a wet/dry vacuum assembly 14, a
four-bend handle 16, a liquid spreader assembly 18, a squeegee head
assembly 20, and a length of vacuum hose 22 fluidly connecting the
squeegee head assembly to the wet/dry vacuum assembly.
[0028] The fresh liquid reservoir assembly 12 has a reservoir 24
and a wheeled chassis 26 integral with the reservoir. The reservoir
has a circumferential sidewall 28 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 and 2), a
bottom wall 30 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1, 2 and 5), and an upper end 32
(see, e.g., FIGS. 1-4)--with the circumferential sidewall including
a front wall 34 (see, e.g., FIG. 1), a back wall 36 (see, e.g.,
FIG. 1), a left sidewall 38 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1-4), and a right
sidewall 40 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1, 7 and 8). The reservoir defines an
interior space, and the reservoir upper end defines an
opening--with the reservoir capable of holding a fresh cleaning
liquid (e.g., water or another cleaning liquid or solution). The
chassis includes the structure that supports the wheels. The
reservoir assembly has four wheels--two swivel casters at the front
(as at 42 in FIG. 1), and two fixed-axle wheels at the back (as at
44 in FIGS. 1, 9, and 10). At the front, the chassis includes a
reinforced post or leg at the front lower-left corner, and a
reinforced post or leg at the front lower-right corner. Each of
these legs includes a cylindrical bore for receiving the post of
the corresponding caster. At the back, the chassis includes a wheel
frame at the back lower-left corner, and a wheel frame at the back
lower-right corner. If desired, the reservoir and integral wheeled
chassis also may be referred to as a trolley-bucket.
[0029] The reservoir assembly 12 further has a spigot 46 (see,
e.g., FIGS. 6-8) fluidly connected to the reservoir interior space,
with the spigot having a valve that is adjustable between a fully
open position and a fully closed position. An extension arm 48
(see, e.g., FIG. 1) is connected to the spigot and includes an
upwardly extending section. A user may operate the spigot between a
fully open position and a fully closed position by rotating the
extension arm. In this fashion, when the reservoir 24 contains a
fresh cleaning liquid (e.g., water or another cleaning liquid or
solution), a user may turn or rotate the extension arm, thereby
adjusting the spigot valve and regulating the flow of the fresh
cleaning liquid from the reservoir through the spigot.
[0030] With reference to FIG. 1, the wet/dry vacuum assembly 14 has
a vacuum recovery tank 50 and a vacuum motor assembly 52 fluidly
connected to the vacuum recovery tank. The vacuum motor assembly is
positioned on top of the vacuum recovery tank, and is releasably
fastened to the vacuum recovery tank with latches. The vacuum
recovery tank has a top wall 54 (FIG. 1), a bottom wall 56 (FIGS.
2, 7, and 8), a front wall 58 (FIG. 1), a back wall 60 (see, e.g.,
FIGS. 1 and 2), a left sidewall 62 (see, e.g., FIG. 1), and a right
sidewall 64 (see, e.g., FIG. 1). A suction inlet 66 (FIG. 1) is
located toward the top of the front wall; and a discharge outlet
(not shown) is located at the bottom of the front wall. Four swivel
caster wheels (as at 70, FIG. 2) extend downward from the bottom
wall.
[0031] The wet/dry vacuum assembly 14 is removably positioned on
top of the reservoir 24, and the four-bend handle 16 is removably
connected to the reservoir. A strap assembly (as at 72 in FIG. 1)
on each side of the vacuum recovery tank 50 releasably connects the
wet/dry vacuum assembly to the four-bend handle. The wet/dry vacuum
assembly is transportable on the reservoir. In addition, each of
the reservoir assembly and the wet/dry vacuum assembly is operable
both when the wet/dry vacuum assembly is positioned on top of the
reservoir, and when the wet/dry vacuum assembly is separated from
the reservoir.
[0032] The reservoir assembly 12 is further shown and described in
commonly-owned U.S. Pat. No. 8,544,141, entitled "Cleaning Cart
Systems" and issued on Oct. 1, 2013, and in commonly-owned U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/477,040, entitled "Modular
Multi-Functional Cleaning and Floor Care System" and filed on May
21, 2012. In addition, the wet/dry vacuum assembly 14, and the
interaction between the reservoir assembly and the wet/dry vacuum
assembly, are further shown and described in commonly-owned U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/477,040. The entire disclosure of
each of U.S. Pat. No. 8,544,141 and U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 13/477,040 is incorporated into this patent document by
reference.
[0033] With reference to FIG. 2, the liquid spreader assembly 18
and the squeegee head assembly 20 are releasably connected to the
fresh liquid reservoir assembly 12 via a hitch assembly 74. The
hitch assembly is connected to the reservoir bottom wall 30 at the
back of the reservoir 24, and extends rearward from the reservoir
assembly.
[0034] As seen in FIGS. 2 and 6, the hitch assembly 74 has a pair
of parallel brackets 76, 78 (FIG. 6) and a crossbar 80 mounted at
the exterior surface of the reservoir bottom wall 30. Bracket 76
(see, e.g., FIGS. 6, 9, and 10) is positioned between the left rear
wheel and the spigot 46, and bracket 78 is positioned between the
right rear wheel and the spigot. As seen in FIG. 6, the bottom wall
of each bracket has a pair of longitudinal slots (as at 82), so
that each bracket may be adjusted forward and aft as desired. The
crossbar 80 is circular in cross-section, and is held in position
by the brackets.
[0035] The liquid spreader assembly 18 has a frame 84, a spreader
pad 86 releasably attached to a bottom surface of the frame, a pair
of connecting arms 88, 90 (see, e.g., FIGS. 6, 9, and 10), and a
strap 92 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2-4). These items may be made of any
suitable materials. The pad may be releasably attached to the frame
using any suitable material(s) or method(s). For example, the frame
bottom surface may have one or more strips of hook-type fasteners
(of the hook-and-loop variety) that engage an upper surface of the
pad. The pad may be any suitable pad, with one example being a
microfiber pad. One end of each connecting arm is attached to an
upper surface of the frame; and the other end is releasably and
rotatably attached to the crossbar 80. As best seen in FIG. 9, the
crossbar-engaging end 94 of connecting arm 88 includes an integral
resilient generally C-shaped member that releasably snap-fits onto
and around the crossbar. In similar fashion, the crossbar-engaging
end of connecting arm 90 includes an integral resilient generally
C-shaped member (not shown) that releasably snap-fits onto and
around the crossbar. As best seen in FIGS. 2-4, the strap 92 has
male and female snap members along its length. The lower portion of
the strap is affixed to connecting arm 88; and female snaps at
different locations along an upper portion of the strap may be
releasably connected to a male snap (not shown) at a rear wall
member to the left of the extension arm, at the back of the
reservoir 24.
[0036] Depending on the particular upper portion female snap
selected, a user may put the liquid spreader assembly 18 in a down
position (see, e.g., FIG. 3) or in an up position (FIG. 4). When
the liquid spreader assembly is in the down position, the spreader
pad 86 is in a floor contacting relationship with a floor surface.
When the liquid spreader assembly is in the up position, the
spreader pad is in a non-contacting relationship with the floor
surface (FIG. 4). A user may install or remove the liquid spreader
assembly quickly and easily, without the use of any tools. To
install the assembly, the user aligns the open portion of the
C-shaped member of each connecting arm 88, 90 with the crossbar 80,
exerts a pushing force on the arms thereby snap-fitting the
C-shaped members onto the crossbar, and fastens the upper portion
of the strap 92 to the reservoir 24. To remove the assembly, the
user may unfasten the upper portion of the strap, and then exert a
pulling force on the arms to release the arms from the
crossbar.
[0037] The squeegee head assembly 20 has a frame assembly 96 (see,
e.g., FIGS. 9 and 10), a pair of connecting arms 98, 100 (see,
e.g., FIGS. 2, 3, and 6-10), and a strap 102 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2-4,
7, and 8). These items may be made of any suitable materials. The
frame assembly has a frame 104 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2, 9, and 10),
squeegee blades (as at 106 and 108 in FIGS. 9 and 10), and wheels
(as at 110 in FIGS. 6, 9, and 10) along the length of the frame.
The frame has a front, a back, a top, a first end, a second end,
and a crown 112 (see, e.g., FIG. 2). A first row of squeegee blades
(aligned end-to-end) depends from the front; and a second row of
squeegee blades (aligned end-to-end) depends from the back. A tube
segment of circular cross-section extends from the crown and serves
to define a suction outlet for the assembly. The tube segment also
serves as a connector, by which a user can releasably connect
(e.g., via a friction fit) the assembly to an end portion of a
length of vacuum hose--with the other end of the length of vacuum
hose being releasably connectable to the suction inlet of the
vacuum recovery tank.
[0038] In addition, the squeegee head assembly 20 has a plow member
114, 116 (see, e.g., FIG. 2) at each of the frame first and second
ends. Each plow member has a first section that extends forward and
down from the frame front, and a second section integral with the
first section, the second section extending across the top of the
frame, from the frame front toward the frame back. Each plow member
can be helpful in facilitating power cord management. For example,
if a user pushes or pulls the system 10 in a direction such that
the squeegee head assembly trails behind the spigot, and a portion
of a power cord is located to the left or right of the reservoir
assembly but within the path of a laterally extending portion of
the squeegee head assembly, the plow facilitates smooth movement of
the power cord portion--either up and over the squeegee head
assembly, or laterally away from the squeegee head assembly.
[0039] One end of each connecting arm 98, 100 is attached to an
upper surface of the squeegee head assembly frame 104; and the
other end is releasably and rotatably attached to the crossbar 80.
As best seen in FIG. 10, the crossbar-engaging end 120 of
connecting arm 98 includes an integral resilient generally C-shaped
member that releasably snap-fits onto and around the crossbar. In
similar fashion, the crossbar-engaging end of connecting arm 100
includes an integral resilient generally C-shaped member (not
shown) that releasably snap-fits onto and around the crossbar. As
best seen in FIGS. 1-4, the strap 102 has male and female snap
members along its length. The lower portion of the strap is affixed
to connecting arm 100; and female snaps at different locations
along upper portions of the strap may be releasably connected to a
male snap (not shown) at a rear wall member to the right of the
extension arm, at the back of the reservoir 24.
[0040] Depending on the particular upper portion female snap
selected, a user may put the squeegee head assembly 20 in a down
position (see, e.g., FIG. 3) or in an up position (FIG. 4). When
the squeegee head assembly is in the down position, the first and
second rows of squeegee blades are in a floor contacting
relationship with a floor surface. When the squeegee head assembly
is in the up position, the first and second rows are in a
non-contacting relationship with the floor surface (FIG. 4). A user
may install or remove the squeegee head assembly quickly and
easily, without the use of any tools. To install the assembly, the
user aligns the open portion of the C-shaped member of each
connecting arm 98, 100 with the crossbar 80, exerts a pushing force
on the arms thereby snap-fitting the C-shaped members onto the
crossbar, and fastens an upper portion of the strap 102 to the
reservoir 24. To remove the assembly, the user may unfasten an
upper portion of the strap, and then exert a pulling force on the
arms to release the arms from the crossbar.
[0041] In use, the user may open the reservoir spigot and turn on
the wet-dry vacuum. Then the user may pull or push the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system (e.g., in a
serpentine pattern) over the floor surface to be cleaned. As the
user pulls or pushes the system along, cleaning solution is
dispensed, spread, and vacuumed in one easy step.
[0042] The modular design of the multi-functional cleaning and
floor care system allows for quick and easy part replacement and
changing from one cleaning mode to another. The design makes this
process as simple as snapping on and snapping off. The modular
design also allows the user to shift quickly and easily between a
spread-only mode, a vacuum-only mode, and a spread-and-vacuum
mode.
[0043] The connecting arms are designed so that, if a user catches
part of the liquid spreader assembly or squeegee head assembly on
an obstacle (e.g., a corner of a wall or heavy table), the
connecting arms may detach (i.e., snap off) from the hitch--thereby
preventing the liquid spreader assembly and the squeegee head
assembly from breaking. Also, the connecting arms are designed to
have some degree of twist; in this fashion, if either end of the
squeegee head assembly frame brushes up against an obstacle, the
squeegee head assembly can flex to get around the obstacle.
[0044] The connecting arms are free to rotate around the hitch.
This allows the arms to be rotated and stored in the upward-most
position. In the upward position, the user can easily have access
to the spreader pad (e.g., a microfiber pad) for replacement. The
rigid design of the connecting arms allows the user to either pull
or push the floor care system. This allows easy maneuvering into
tight spaces and backing into corners or edges. If needed or
desired in order to clean an edge or alcove, the user can
disconnect the vacuum hose from the floor tool assembly and quickly
attach the vac hose to a vacuum wand for trimming and cleaning
these hard to reach areas.
[0045] The wet-dry vacuum of the multi-functional cleaning and
floor care system may be powered in any suitable way. For example,
the vacuum motor assembly may be connected to an electrical outlet
(e.g., a wall outlet) via a power cord. Alternatively, the system
may include a battery or the like.
[0046] In use, the multi-functional cleaning and floor care system
may be used for a wide variety of floor care needs. For example,
the system may be used to apply a general-purpose cleaning
solution, a stripping solution, a disinfectant, or a degreasing
solution. The system may be used, e.g., for daily floor cleaning,
stripping floors, and finishing floors. Also, the system may be
used in any of a number of locations and facilities, e.g.,
hallways, lobbies, cafeterias, gymnasiums, warehousing, shop
floors, healthcare, and retail.
[0047] In use, a multi-functional cleaning and floor care system,
in accordance with the principles of the invention, may be operated
in a number of different configurations and ways--determined
largely by the particular cleaning- or other floor care-activity to
be performed.
[0048] For example, for general or routine cleaning, a user may
fill the reservoir with cleaning solution, put the liquid spreader
assembly and the squeegee head assembly in the down position, open
the spigot to dispense cleaning solution, turn on the vacuum motor,
and start cleaning. If extra dwell time is desired--for example,
for heavy soil situations or for disinfection purposes--the user
can simply raise the squeegee head assembly to the up position, and
leave the liquid spreader assembly in place in the down position.
In this manner, the system will disperse a thin uniform layer of
solution as it leaves the spigot. Then, if desired, after a
sufficient amount of dwell time, the user may simply lower the
squeegee head assembly to the down position and vacuum up the
solution.
[0049] If a user wants to apply and remove a floor stripper
solution, the system allows them to do so in a highly productive
manner. For example, to apply the solution, the user may move the
four-bend handle to the front of the reservoir assembly, move the
squeegee head assembly to the up position, keep the liquid spreader
assembly in the down position, open the spigot, and pull the system
(i.e., with the liquid spreader assembly trailing behind the
spigot). To vacuum up the stripper solution, the user may remove
the liquid spreader assembly, lower the squeegee head assembly to
the down position, turn on the vacuum motor, and push the system
(i.e., with the squeegee head assembly and the back of the liquid
reservoir now leading (i.e., the reservoir back now being at the
front), and the front of the liquid reservoir now trailing behind
the back. In this way, the user does not walk through the stripper
solution--either in applying or removing the solution.
[0050] Additional embodiments and configurations of the
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of the present
invention are described in further detail below. And as noted
above, to facilitate understanding of the invention, like reference
numbers are used for like elements across the various
embodiments.
[0051] With reference to FIGS. 11-13, the particular
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system embodiment 200
shown is identical to system 10 (shown in FIGS. 1-10), except that
system 200 does not include the wet/dry vacuum assembly, the
squeegee head assembly, and the length of vacuum hose.
[0052] With reference to FIGS. 14-16, the particular
multi-functional cleaning and floor care system embodiment 300
shown is identical to system 10 (shown in FIGS. 1-10), except that
system 300 does not include the liquid spreader assembly.
[0053] In an alternate embodiment (not shown), the liquid spreader
assembly and the squeegee head assembly may be fastened to a Kaivac
No-Touch Cleaning.RTM. machine commercially available from Kaivac,
Inc. of Hamilton Ohio. As needed, a bracket may be mounted to the
back of a Kaivac No-Touch Cleaning.RTM. machine so as to locate the
hitch at a suitable height above the floor. A quick disconnect
fitting and spray wand may be mounted to the bracket, so that the
spray line of the No-Touch Cleaning.RTM. machine may be attached to
the spray wand. The spray wand may have a suitably sized nozzle
such that the cleaning solution from the No-Touch Cleaning.RTM.
machine may be dispensed at a proper location relative to the
liquid spreader assembly and the squeegee head assembly (e.g., in
front of both assemblies).
[0054] The multi-functional cleaning and floor care system of the
present invention may be made using any suitable material(s) and
manufacturing technique(s). For example, if desired, the reservoir
may be made of polypropylene using injection molding, and the
vacuum recovery tank may be made of polyethylene via rotational
molding. Also, if desired, the vacuum motor assembly may have the
following specifications: 85 inches of lift; 60 cfm; 75 decibels;
for the U.S., 110 Volts, 60 Hz, 10 amps; for Universal, 100-240
Volts, 50-60 Hz, 5.5 amps; and heavy duty two-stage vacuum
motor.
[0055] While the present invention has been illustrated by a
description of embodiments, and while the illustrative embodiments
have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention
of the inventors to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the
following claims to such detail. Additional advantages and
modifications readily will appear to those skilled in the art upon
a reading of this patent document. The invention, in its broader
aspects, is therefore not limited to the specific details,
representative apparatus and methods, and illustrative examples
shown and described in this patent document. Accordingly,
departures may be made from such details without departing from the
spirit or scope of the inventors' general inventive concept.
* * * * *