CA2357057A1 - Mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus - Google Patents
Mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2357057A1 CA2357057A1 CA 2357057 CA2357057A CA2357057A1 CA 2357057 A1 CA2357057 A1 CA 2357057A1 CA 2357057 CA2357057 CA 2357057 CA 2357057 A CA2357057 A CA 2357057A CA 2357057 A1 CA2357057 A1 CA 2357057A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- housing
- large area
- cleaning apparatus
- debris
- surface cleaning
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L11/02—Floor surfacing or polishing machines
- A47L11/20—Floor surfacing or polishing machines combined with vacuum cleaning devices
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
- A47L11/4013—Contaminants collecting devices, i.e. hoppers, tanks or the like
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
- A47L11/4036—Parts or details of the surface treating tools
- A47L11/4044—Vacuuming or pick-up tools; Squeegees
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/02—Nozzles
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01H—STREET CLEANING; CLEANING OF PERMANENT WAYS; CLEANING BEACHES; DISPERSING OR PREVENTING FOG IN GENERAL CLEANING STREET OR RAILWAY FURNITURE OR TUNNEL WALLS
- E01H1/00—Removing undesirable matter from roads or like surfaces, with or without moistening of the surface
- E01H1/08—Pneumatically dislodging or taking-up undesirable matter or small objects; Drying by heat only or by streams of gas; Cleaning by projecting abrasive particles
- E01H1/0827—Dislodging by suction; Mechanical dislodging-cleaning apparatus with independent or dependent exhaust, e.g. dislodging-sweeping machines with independent suction nozzles ; Mechanical loosening devices working under vacuum
- E01H1/0836—Apparatus dislodging all of the dirt by suction ; Suction nozzles
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01H—STREET CLEANING; CLEANING OF PERMANENT WAYS; CLEANING BEACHES; DISPERSING OR PREVENTING FOG IN GENERAL CLEANING STREET OR RAILWAY FURNITURE OR TUNNEL WALLS
- E01H1/00—Removing undesirable matter from roads or like surfaces, with or without moistening of the surface
- E01H1/10—Hydraulically loosening or dislodging undesirable matter; Raking or scraping apparatus ; Removing liquids or semi-liquids e.g., absorbing water, sliding-off mud
- E01H1/108—Removing liquids or semi- liquids, e.g. absorbing rain water, sucking-off mud
Abstract
A mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus comprises a vehicle, a vacuum source, and wheels. A housing is mounted on the vehicle and defines a substantially hollow interior, and has a perimeter portion that terminates downwardly in a surface facing peripheral bottom edge that defines a suctioning bottom opening.
A duct has an inlet end disposed in suctioning relation with respect to the substantially hollow interior of the housing and connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via an internal airflow passageway to an opposite outlet end disposed exteriorly to the housing in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source. The peripheral bottom edge is disposed adjacent the surface being cleaned, and a selectively movable portion permits ingress by debris to the interior of the housing, to thereby permit passage by debris through the duct and into the vacuum source.
A duct has an inlet end disposed in suctioning relation with respect to the substantially hollow interior of the housing and connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via an internal airflow passageway to an opposite outlet end disposed exteriorly to the housing in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source. The peripheral bottom edge is disposed adjacent the surface being cleaned, and a selectively movable portion permits ingress by debris to the interior of the housing, to thereby permit passage by debris through the duct and into the vacuum source.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to mobile large area surface c:Leaning apparatus, and more particularly relates to such large area surface cleaning apparatus for suctioning both dust and debris from a surface.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
When cleaning sidewalks, factories, warehouses, and the like, many types of fine particulate material, such as dust, and also many types of larger debris, such as litter, may be encountered.
A~~cordingly, the need for thorough, yet quick and inexpensive cleaning of various types of fine particulate matter and larger types of debris on sidewalks, factories, warehouses, and the like, has spawned dozens of designs for walk behind push-type mobile surface cleaning units, walk behind self-propelled mobile surface cleaning units, and ride-on mobile surface cleaning units.
a0 Part of the reason for the number of different units is that each manufacturer is trying to achieve a useful balance between suctioning up fine particulate matter and suctioning up litter.
Fine particulate matter typically is spread in a thin layer over at .''? least a large portion of the surface. Accordingly, the covered surface must be vacuumed in its entirety. In order to vacuum up fine particulate matter, it is well-known to use a vacuuming head that has a dust suctioning opening disposed in its bottom area . In use, the vacuuming head closely engages the surface being cleaned, thereby causing the vacuum source to create a low pressure within the vacuuming head. This low pressure causes air to be forcefully drawn between the vacuuming head and the surface being cleaned.
The forcefully drawn air carries fine particulate matter into the vacuum head.
Further, such vacuuming heads on mobile surface cleaning units are typically quite wide in order to permit a maximum area of the surface to be covered per unit time. Accordingly, the cross-sectional area between the vacuuming head and the surface being cleaned, through which the air and fine particulate matter are 1J drawn, is correspondingly large. Therefore, in order to vacuum up fine particulate matter using a wide vacuuming head, a mobile vacuum unit must have high vacuum lift characteristics.
Conversely, in order to suction up litter, which has a comparatively large overall surface area for its light weight, a mobile vacuum unit must produce high air velocity. Litter vacuuming units typically are designed such that, in use, the operator moves a vacuum hose over the litter, without the vacuum hose necessarily contacting the surface being cleaned in order to establish a vacuuming effect. Debris is merely suctioned up the hose by the high flow of air, and is deposited in the receptacle for subsequent disposal or dumping.
However, as is well known in the prior art, it is very difficult in the design of mobile surface cleaning units to concurrently achieve both high vacuum lift characteristics (typically measured by a column of water or mercury) and produce high air velocity using an air impeller.
Another reason that it is very difficult in the design of mobile surface cleaning units to concurrently achieve both high vacuum lift characteristics and produce high air velocity is the necessity to filter out fine particulate matter from the flow of air produced. The fine particulate filters required by present-day 1.5 legislation cannot pass very large volumes of air and still function properly.. Accordingly, it is difficult to produce a unit that has the necessary high air velocity for suctioning up fine particular matter.
0 There is no known prior art unit that can maintain its vacuuming head in close proximity to a surface in order to properly suction dust and dirt, and also concurrently permit the suctioning up of litter, or conversely, there is no known prior art unit that can vacuum up of debris while still maintaining its vacuuming head <v in close proximity to a surface in order to properly suction dust and dirt.
The present invention relates to mobile large area surface c:Leaning apparatus, and more particularly relates to such large area surface cleaning apparatus for suctioning both dust and debris from a surface.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
When cleaning sidewalks, factories, warehouses, and the like, many types of fine particulate material, such as dust, and also many types of larger debris, such as litter, may be encountered.
A~~cordingly, the need for thorough, yet quick and inexpensive cleaning of various types of fine particulate matter and larger types of debris on sidewalks, factories, warehouses, and the like, has spawned dozens of designs for walk behind push-type mobile surface cleaning units, walk behind self-propelled mobile surface cleaning units, and ride-on mobile surface cleaning units.
a0 Part of the reason for the number of different units is that each manufacturer is trying to achieve a useful balance between suctioning up fine particulate matter and suctioning up litter.
Fine particulate matter typically is spread in a thin layer over at .''? least a large portion of the surface. Accordingly, the covered surface must be vacuumed in its entirety. In order to vacuum up fine particulate matter, it is well-known to use a vacuuming head that has a dust suctioning opening disposed in its bottom area . In use, the vacuuming head closely engages the surface being cleaned, thereby causing the vacuum source to create a low pressure within the vacuuming head. This low pressure causes air to be forcefully drawn between the vacuuming head and the surface being cleaned.
The forcefully drawn air carries fine particulate matter into the vacuum head.
Further, such vacuuming heads on mobile surface cleaning units are typically quite wide in order to permit a maximum area of the surface to be covered per unit time. Accordingly, the cross-sectional area between the vacuuming head and the surface being cleaned, through which the air and fine particulate matter are 1J drawn, is correspondingly large. Therefore, in order to vacuum up fine particulate matter using a wide vacuuming head, a mobile vacuum unit must have high vacuum lift characteristics.
Conversely, in order to suction up litter, which has a comparatively large overall surface area for its light weight, a mobile vacuum unit must produce high air velocity. Litter vacuuming units typically are designed such that, in use, the operator moves a vacuum hose over the litter, without the vacuum hose necessarily contacting the surface being cleaned in order to establish a vacuuming effect. Debris is merely suctioned up the hose by the high flow of air, and is deposited in the receptacle for subsequent disposal or dumping.
However, as is well known in the prior art, it is very difficult in the design of mobile surface cleaning units to concurrently achieve both high vacuum lift characteristics (typically measured by a column of water or mercury) and produce high air velocity using an air impeller.
Another reason that it is very difficult in the design of mobile surface cleaning units to concurrently achieve both high vacuum lift characteristics and produce high air velocity is the necessity to filter out fine particulate matter from the flow of air produced. The fine particulate filters required by present-day 1.5 legislation cannot pass very large volumes of air and still function properly.. Accordingly, it is difficult to produce a unit that has the necessary high air velocity for suctioning up fine particular matter.
0 There is no known prior art unit that can maintain its vacuuming head in close proximity to a surface in order to properly suction dust and dirt, and also concurrently permit the suctioning up of litter, or conversely, there is no known prior art unit that can vacuum up of debris while still maintaining its vacuuming head <v in close proximity to a surface in order to properly suction dust and dirt.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus that suctions up both fine particulate matter, such as dust, and larger debris, such as S litter, from a surface.
It is another obj ect of the present invention to provide a mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus that suctions up both fine particulate matter, such as dust, and larger debris, such as litter, from a surface in one pass.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus that suctions up both fine particulate matter, such as dust, and larger debris, such as litter, from a surface with increased effectiveness and efficiency.
SUI~1ARY OF T8E INVENTION
2U In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is disclosed a novel mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus for suctioning both dust and debris from a surface being cleaned.
The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus comprises a vehicle carrying a vacuum source and having wheels for permitting travel along the surface being cleaned. A housing defines a substantially hollow interior, and has a perimeter portion that terminates downwardly in a surface facing peripheral bottom edge that defines a suctioning bottom opening. The housing is operatively mounted on the vehicle such that, in use, at least a portion of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge is disposed adjacent the surface being cleaned in dust suctioning relation thereto, and has a selectively movable portion for permitting ingress by debris in to the interior of the housing when the apparatus is in use. A duct has an inlet end disposed in dust and debris suctioning relation with respect to the substantially hollow interior of the housing and connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via an internal airflow passageway to an opposite outlet end disposed exteriorly to the housing and is operatively connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source. There is a means for moving the selectively movable portion to permit the ingress by debris into the interior of the housing, to thereby permit access by debris through the duct and into the vacuum source. A selectively operable control means is provided for controlling the means for moving the selectively movable portion.
Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which is briefly described herein below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:
Figure 1A is a perspective view of a first preferred embodiment of the mobs_le large area surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention;
Figure 1B is a top plan view partially cut away of a portion of the first preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 1A;
It is another obj ect of the present invention to provide a mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus that suctions up both fine particulate matter, such as dust, and larger debris, such as litter, from a surface in one pass.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus that suctions up both fine particulate matter, such as dust, and larger debris, such as litter, from a surface with increased effectiveness and efficiency.
SUI~1ARY OF T8E INVENTION
2U In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is disclosed a novel mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus for suctioning both dust and debris from a surface being cleaned.
The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus comprises a vehicle carrying a vacuum source and having wheels for permitting travel along the surface being cleaned. A housing defines a substantially hollow interior, and has a perimeter portion that terminates downwardly in a surface facing peripheral bottom edge that defines a suctioning bottom opening. The housing is operatively mounted on the vehicle such that, in use, at least a portion of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge is disposed adjacent the surface being cleaned in dust suctioning relation thereto, and has a selectively movable portion for permitting ingress by debris in to the interior of the housing when the apparatus is in use. A duct has an inlet end disposed in dust and debris suctioning relation with respect to the substantially hollow interior of the housing and connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via an internal airflow passageway to an opposite outlet end disposed exteriorly to the housing and is operatively connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source. There is a means for moving the selectively movable portion to permit the ingress by debris into the interior of the housing, to thereby permit access by debris through the duct and into the vacuum source. A selectively operable control means is provided for controlling the means for moving the selectively movable portion.
Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which is briefly described herein below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:
Figure 1A is a perspective view of a first preferred embodiment of the mobs_le large area surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention;
Figure 1B is a top plan view partially cut away of a portion of the first preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 1A;
Figure 1C is a side elevational view partially cut away of the first preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 1A, with the door in a closed position;
Figure 1D is a side elevational view similar to Figure 1C, but with the door in an open position, and with debris entering into t:he interior of the housing;
Figure 2A is a perspective view of a second preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, with the j aw member in a closed position;
Figure 2B is a side elevational view partially cut away of the second preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 2A, but with the jaw member in an open position, and with debris entering into the interior of the housing;
Figure 3A is a perspective view of a third preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, with each of the doors in a closed position; and, Figure 3B is a top plan view partially cut away of the third preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 3A, but with each of the doors in an open position, and with debris entering into the interior of the housing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED E1~ODIMENT
Referring to Figures 1A through 3B of the drawings, it will be noted that Figures 1A through 1D illustrate the first preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention, Figures 2A and 2B illustrate the second preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention, and Figures 3A and 3B
illustrate the third preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention.
Reference will now be made to Figures 1A through 1D, which show a first preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 20. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 is for suctioning both dust and debris from a surface 22 being cleaned, such as a factory or warehouse floor, a sidewalk, or any other substantially flat surface.
g Briefly, the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 comprises a vehicle 25 carrying a vacuum source 69 and having wheels 27. A housing 30 mounted on the vehicle 25 defines a substantially hollow interior 32, and has a perimeter portion 34 that terminates downwardly in a surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 that defines a suctioning bottom opening 48, and a selectively movable portion 50. A duct 60 has an inlet end 62 connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via an internal airflow passageway 64 to an opposite outlet end 66 that is disposed at the vacuum source 69 so as to be in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source 69. A means 80 is provided for moving the selectively movable portion 50. A
selectively operable control means 90 is also provided.
The various elements of the first preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 will now be described in greater detail.
In the mobile large area surface clean apparatus 20, the vehicle 25 carries the vacuum source 69 that comprises an impeller 69a, a motor 69b, two filters 69c, and a debris receptacle 69d, as is well known in the art. The impeller could alternatively be replaced by a vacuum pump. Also, it is well known that the vacuum source, although is commonly located after the receptacle 69d, can also precede the receptacle and thereby have debris flow through it. The debris receptacle, as illustrated, has a rear dump door 69e to permit removal of debris therefrom. It is also well known in the industry to use removable top plates, tipping canisters, reusable canisters, bags, and so on. Preferably, the duct 60 is made from a rigid metal or plastic material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, UHMW (ultra-high molecular weight) plastic, or any other suitable material, as is well known in the industry.
The vehicle 25 also has four wheels 27, specifically two steerable front wheels 27f (only one shown) and two larger rear wheels 27r. The wheels 27f, 27r are for permitting travel along the surface 22 being cleaned. The apparatus 20 is self propelled and steered by a user holding onto the steering wheel 28.
Alternatively, the rear wheels 27r of the apparatus 20 could be powered by an electric motor or internal combustion engine (not shown) and also could be steerable by means of the steering wheel 28 through a suitable linkage (not shown).
The housing 30 includes a perimeter portion 34 having a front portion 35, a back portion 36, a left end portion 37, and a right end portion 38. As can be best seen in Figures 1A and 1B, the housing 30 is elongate from the left end portion 37 to its right end portion 38, and is preferably about two to three feet long (from the left end portion 37 to the right end portion 38), and is generally proportionate to the diameter of the duct 60, (about two to four inches high at the center), and about two to four inches from front to back, depending on the specific configuration of t'he housing 30.
The particular housing 30 illustrated is also tapered downwardly from a raised central portion 39 towards each of the left and right ends portions 37, 38, and is also tapered from front to back towards each of the left and right end portions 37,38. In this manner, the left and right end portions 37,38 can be used to vacuum under slightly raised objects.
As can be best seen in Figures 1A and 1B, the front portion 35 of the perimeter portion 34 of the housing 30 comprises a left front portion 351 and a right front portion 35r that are each sloped rearwardly and inwardly towards a central opening 40 that is disposed in the front portion 35 between the left front portion 351 and the right front portion 35r, in debris receiving relation with respect to a surface 22 being cleaned. The rearwardly and inwardly sloping left and right front portions 351, 35r, cause debris to be deflected towards the central opening 40 when the housing 30 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 is pushed forwardly along the surface 22 being cleaned.
Further, as can be best seen in Figure 1B, the back portion 36 cf the perimeter portion 34 of the housing 30 comprises a left back portion 361 and a right back portion 36r that are each sloped rearwardly and inwardly towards the inlet end 62 of the duct 60, so as to cause debris that enters the interior 32 of the housing 30 to be deflected towards the inlet end 62 of the duct 60 when the housing 30 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 moves forwardly along the surface 22 being cleaned.
The substantially hollow interior 32 of the housing 30 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 can best be seen in Figures 1C and 1D. The perimeter portion 34 of the housing 30 terminates downwardly in the substantially straight surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46. The surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 defines, as aforesaid, the suctioning bottom opening 48 that is continuous with the interior 32 of the housing 30.
The housing 30 is operatively mounted on the vehicle 25, such that, in use, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 is disposed adjacent the surface 22 being cleaned, in dust suctioning relation thereto. The term "dust suctioning relation" refers to the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 being a very small distance above the surface 22 being cleaned (or actually partially touching it) in order to cause the air being suctioned into the interior 32 of the housing 30 between the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 and the surface 22 being cleaned to maintain a sufficient air speed and vacuum to suction dust and other fine particulate matter into the interior 32 of the housing 30, or in other words, to maintain the housing 30 in dust suctioning relation with respect to the surface 22 being cleaned. The distance of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 above the surface 22 being cleaned is determined by the vertical adjustment of an adjustable mounting bracket (not shown) or alternatively by small wheels or skid plates mounted in vertically adjustable relation on the housing 30. This vertical adjustment may even be set such that the surface facing peripheral bottom edge at least partially contacts the surface 22 being cleaned.
In the first preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 comprises numerous downwardly projecting bristles 46b that permit the housing 30 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 to slide along a smooth floor without doing damage to either the floor or to the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 of the housing 30. The bristles 46b also provide an airflow passageway between the surface 22 being cleaned and the remainder of the housing 30, which airflow passageway has a relatively small cross-sectional area that is preferably less than or even approximately the same as the same cross-sectional area of the internal airflow passageway 64 of the duct 60, so as to permit a suitable high speed airflow therethrough, and subsequently into the housing 30 through the suctioning bottom opening 48. In this manner, air and dust can enter the interior 32 of the housing 30, thus maintaining the housing 30 in dust suctioning relation with respect to the surface 22 being cleaned, as aforesaid. Alternatively, rubber squeegees can be used in place of the bristles 46b for applications where water is to be suctioned. Also, alternatively, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 may be substantially straight or may be ridged.
The selectively movable portion 50 of the housing 30 permits access by debris to the interior 32 of the housing 30, as can be best seen in Figure 1D. In the first preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the selectively movable portion 50 comprises a first door 50 mounted on the front portion of the housing 30, substantially directly in front of the inlet end 62 of the duct 60, by means of a door hinge 52 having a door hinge pivot axis "DHP1", and permits access to the interior 32 of the housing 30, as aforesaid, through the debris passing opening 40. As is apparent from Figures 1A through 1D, the door hinge pivot axis "DHPl" is oriented substantially horizontally at the top of the first door 50. In this manner, the first door 50 is movable from a closed position, as is best seen in Figures 1A through 1C, upwardly and rearwardly to an open position, as indicated by arrow "A" in Figure 1D, thereby to permit ingress by debris 24 into the interior 32 of the housing 30, as indicated by arrows "B". A coil spring (not shown) is preferably integrated within the door hinge 52 so as to spring bias the first door 50 to its closed position.
The debris passing opening 40 is adjacent the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46, and preferably the debris passing opening 40 extends upwardly from the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46, so as to most readily accommodate the passage of debris therethrough.
As can be best seen in Figures 1B through 1D, the duct 60 is mounted at its inlet end 62 to the housing 30 such that the inlet end 62 is disposed in dust and debris suctioning relation with respect to the substantially hollow interior 32 of the housing 30.
The inlet end 62 of the duct 60 is connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via the internal airflow passageway 64 to the opposite outlet end 66 disposed exteriorly to the housing 30, and connected to the vacuum source 69. The outlet end 66 is thereby also in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source 69, to thereby permit passage by debris through the duct 60 and into the vacuum source 69.
There is also means 8U for moving the selectively movable portion 50, or in other words the first door 50, from its closed position, as seen in Figures 1A through 1C, to a fully open position, as seen in Figure 1D, against the biasing of the coil spring in the hinge 52 t:o thereby permit ingress by debris into the interior 32 of the housing 30, and to thereby permit ingress by debris through the duct 60 and into the vacuum source 69. The means 80 for moving the selectively movable portion 50 comprises a manually operable cable 81 disposed within a sheath 82 and secured at its lower end 83 to the first door 50 by means of an "eye"
connector 84. The cable 81 is secured at its upper end 86 to the selectively operable control means 90 for controlling the means 80 for moving the selectively movable portion 50.
The selectively operable control means 90 comprises a hand operated lever 92 pivotally mounted onto a flange 29 on the vehicle 25 adjacent the seat 26. The cable 81 is secured at its upper end 86 to the hand operated lever 92. It is to be clearly understood that various other means may also be used to operate the door 50, such as an electric solenoid, among others, and that this patent is in no way limited in i is scope by the selection of the manually operable cable 81 and lever 92 in this first preferred embodiment.
In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, it is contemplated that although it is preferable to mount the housing 30 at the front of the vehicle 25 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20, it is also possible to mount the housing 30 on the vehicle 25 at any longitudinal position, from front to back.
For instance, the housing 30 could be mounted generally centrally from front to back, such as under a small tractor or the like.
Reference will now be made to Figures 2A and 2B, which show a second preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 of the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 220. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 is for suctioning both dust and debris from a surface 222 being cleaned, such as a factory floor, or any other substantially flat surface.
Briefly, the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 comprises a vehicle 225 carrying a vacuum source 269 and having wheels 227. A housing 230 is operatively mounted on the vehicle 225, and defines a substantially hollow interior 232, and has a perimeter portion 234 that terminates downwardly in a surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 that defines a suctioning bottom opening 248, and a selectively movable portion 250. A duct 260 has an inlet end 262 connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via an internal airflow passageway 264 to an opposite outlet end 266 that is disposed at the vacuum source 269 so as to be in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source 269.
Means 280 are provided for moving the selectively movable portion 250. Selectively operable control means 290 are also provided.
The various elements of the second preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 will now be described in greater detail.
In the mobile large area surface clean apparatus 220, the vehicle 225 carries the vacuum source 269 that comprises an impeller 269a, a motor 269b, two filters 269c, and a debris receptacle 269d, as is well known in the art. The impeller could alternatively be replaced by a vacuum pump. Also, it is well known that the vacuum source, although is commonly beyond the receptacle, c.an also precede the receptacle and thereby have debris flow through it. The debris receptacle, as illustrated, has a rear dump door 269c to permit removal of debris therefrom. It is also well known in the industry to use removable top plates, tipping canisters, removable canisters, bags, and so on. Preferably, the duct 260 is made from a rigid metal or plastic material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, UHMW (ultra-high molecular weight) plastic, or any other suitable material, as is well known in the industry.
The vehicle 225 also has four wheels 227, specifically two steerable front wheels 227f and two larger rear wheels 227r (only one shown). The wheels 227f,227r are for permitting travel along the surface 222 being cleaned. The apparatus 220 is self propelled and steered by a user holding onto the steering wheel 228.
Alternatively, the rear wheels 227r of the apparatus 220 could be powered by an electric motor or internal combustion engine (not shown) and also could be steerable by means of the steering wheel 228 through a suitable linkage (not shown).
The housing 230 includes a perimeter portion 234 having a front portion 235, a back portion 236, a left end portion 237, and a right end portion 238. As can be best seen in Figure 2A, the housing 230 is elongate from its left end portion 237 to its right end portion 238, and is preferably about two to three feet long (from the left end portion 237 to the right end portion 238) , about two to four inches high, and about two t.o four inches from front to back, depending on the specific configuration of the housing 230.
The particular housing 230 illustrated is also tapered downwardly from a raised central portion 239 towards each of the left and right ends portions 237, 238, and is also tapered from front to back towards each of the left and right end portions 237,238. In this manner, the left and right end portions 237,238 can be used to vacuum under slightly raised objects.
As can be best seen in Figure 2A, the front portion 235 of the perimeter portion 234 of the housing 230 comprises left and right forwardly projecting tabs 237t, 238t disposed one adjacent each end of the left and right end portions 237, 238 of the perimeter portion 234. The left and right forwardly projecting tabs 237t, 238t each retain debris at the front portion 235 of the perimeter portion 234 of the housing 230 and preclude the retained debris from escaping from the area in front of the front portion 235, when the housing 230 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 is pushed forwardly along the surface 222 being cleaned.
Further, as can be best seen in Figure 2A, the back portion 236 of the perimeter portion 234 of the housing 230 comprises left and right portions 2361, 236r that are each sloped rearwardly and inwardly towards the inlet end 262 of the duct 260, so as to cause debris that enters the interior of the housing 230 to be deflected towards the inlet end 262 of the duct 260 when the housing 230 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 is pushed forwardly along the surface 222 being cleaned.
The substantially hollow interior 232 of the housing 230 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 can best be seen in Figure 2B. The perimeter portion 234 of the housing 230 terminates downwardly in the substantially straight surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246. The surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 defines, as aforesaid, the suctioning bottom opening 248 that is continuous with the interior of the housing 230.
The housing 230 is operatively mounted on the vehicle 225, such that in use, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 is disposed adjacent the surface 222 being cleaned, in dust suctioning relation thereto. The term "dust suctioning relation" refers to the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 being a very small distance above the surface 222 being cleaned (or actually partially touching it) in order to cause the air being suctioned into the interior 232 of the housing 230 between the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 and the surface 222 being cleaned to maintain a sufficient air speed and vacuum to suction dust and other fine particulate matter into the interior 232 of the housing 230, or in other words, to maintain the housing 230 in dust suctioning relation with respect to the surface 222 being cleaned.
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The distance of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 above the surface 222 being cleaned is determined by the vertical adjustment of an adjustable mounting bracket (not shown) or alternatively by small wheels or skid plates mounted in vertically adjustable relation on the housing 230. This vertical adjustment m.ay even be set such that the surface facing peripheral bottom edge at least partially contacts the surface 222 being cleaned.
In the second preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 comprises numerous downwardly projecting bristles 246b that permit the housing 230 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 to slide along a smooth floor without doing damage to either the floor or the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 of the housing 230. The bristles also provide an airflow passageway between the surface 222 being cleaned and the remainder of the housing 230, which airflow passageway has a relatively small cross-sectional area, essentially the same cross-sectional area of the internal airflow passageway of the duct 260, so as to permit a suitable high speed airflow and subsequently into the housing 230 through the suctioning bottom opening 248. In this manner, air and dust can enter the interior of the housing 230, thus maintaining the housing 230 in dust suctioning relation with respect to the surface 222 being cleaned, as aforesaid. Alternatively, rubber squeegees can be used in place of the bristles for applications where water is to be suctioned.
Also alternatively, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 may be substantially straight or may be rigid.
The selectively movable portion 250 of the housing 230 permits access by debris to the interior of the housing 230, as can be best seen in Figure 2B. In the second preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the selectively movable portion 250 comprises a jaw member 250 that includes a jaw section. 251a of the perimeter portion 234 and a j aw section 251b of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246. The jaw member 250 is mounted on the top portion of the housing 230 by means of a jaw hinge 252 having a jaw hinge pivot axis "JHP", for movement between a closed position whereat the jaw section 251b of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 is in substantial alignment with the remainder of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246, so as to, in use, contact a surface 222 being cleaned, and an open position whereat the jaw section 251b of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 is removed from the substantial alignment with the remainder of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246, thereby to permit the access by debris to the interior 232 of the housing 230.
As best seen in Figures 2A and 2B, the jaw hinge pivot axis "JHP" is oriented substantially horizontally and is disposed on top of the housing 230. In this manner, the jaw member 250 is movable upwardly from a closed position, as best seen in Figure 2A, to an open position, as indicated by arrow "C" in Figure 2B, such that ___ _._.u...., _.,.~~,~,....
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the jaw section 251b of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 is disposed generally above the remainder of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246, and thereby to permit access by debris 224 to the interior of the housing 230, as indicated by arrows "D" .
A coil spring (not shown) is preferably integrated within the jaw hinge 252 so as to spring bias the jaw member 250 to its closed position.
The debris passing opening 240 is adjacent the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246, and preferably the debris passing opening 240 extends upwardly from the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246, so as to most readily accommodate the passage of debris therethrough.
As can be best seen in Figure 2B, the duct 260 is mounted at its inlet end 262 such that the inlet end 262 disposed in dust and debris suctioning relation with respect to the substantially hollow interior 232 of the housing 230. The inlet end 262 of the duct 260 is connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via the internal airflow passageway 264 to the opposite outlet end 266 disposed exteriorly to the housing 230, and connected to the vacuum source 269. The outlet end is thereby also in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source 269, to thereby permit passage by debris through the duct 260 and into the vacuum source 269.
There is also means 280 for moving the selectively movable portion 250, or in other words the jaw member 250, from its closed position, as best seen in Figure 2A, to a fully open position, as best seen in Figure 2B, against the biassing of the coil spring in the hinge 252, to thereby permit ingress by debris into the interior of the housing 230, and to thereby permit passage by debris through the duct 260 and into the vacuum source 269. The means 280 for moving the selectively movable portion 250 comprises a manually operable cable 281 disposed within a sheath 282 secured at its lower end 283 to the jaw 250 by means of an "eye" connector 284. The cable 281 is secured at its upper end 286 to the selectively operable control means for controlling the means for moving the selectively movable portion 250.
The selectively operable control means comprises a hand operated lever 292 pivotally mounted onto a flange 229 on the vehicle 225 adjacent the seat 226. The cable 281 is secured at its upper end 286 to the hand operated lever 292. It is to be clearly understood that various other means may also be used to operate the door 250, such as an electric solenoid, among others, and that this patent is in no way limited in its scope by the selection of the manually operable cable 281 and lever 292 in this second preferred embodiment.
In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, it is contemplated that although it is preferable to mount the housing 230 in front of the vehicle 225 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220, it is also possible to mount the housing 230 on the vehicle 225 at any longitudinal position, from front to back. For instance, the housing 230 could be mounted generally centrally from front to back, such as under a small tractor or the like.
Reference will now be made to Figures 3A and 3B, which show a third preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 320. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 320 is similar to the first preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20, except that the selectively movable portion 332 comprises both a first door 334 and a second door 336 that together cover the debris passing opening 338. The first and second doors 334,336 each are mounted on the front portion 340 of the housing 342, substantially directly in front of the inlet 362 of the duct 360, by means of a door hinges 344,346 respectively, having a substantially vertically oriented door hinge pivot axis "DHP2" and "DHP3", respectively, and permit access to the interior 347 of the housing 342, as aforesaid, through the debris passing opening 338. In this manner, the first and second doors 334,336 are movable, preferably in unison, from their closed positions, as is best seen in Figure 3A to their open positions, as indicated by arrows "E" in Figure 3B, thereby to permit passage by debris 324 into the interior 347 of the housing 342, as indicated by arrows "F". A coil spring (not shown) is preferably integrated within each of the door hinges 344 so as to spring bias the first and second doors 334,336 to their respective closed positions.
A pliable rubber strip 350 is mounted one onto the outer vertical edge 352 of each of the first and second doors 334,336 to effect a seal between the doors when they are in their closed position.
The means for moving the selectively movable portion 332, or in other words the first and second doors 334,336, from their closed position, as best seen in Figure 3A, to their open positions, as best seen in Figure 3B, comprises a first electrically operated solenoid 361 and a second electrically operated solenoid 362. As can be best seen in Figure 3B, the first and second solenoids 361, 362 are each pivotally mounted to the roof 343 of the housing 342 by means of a threaded fastener 364 in order to accommodate swivelling of the solenoids 361, 362 as they move the first and second doors 334,336. The piston arms 361p,362p of the first and second solenoids 361,362, respectively, is pivotally connected to a co-operating tab 366 projecting rearwardly from the first and second doors 334,336, respectively. The selectively operable control means 370 comprises a hand operable momentary contact single-pole single-throw pushbutton switch 372 mounted onto the steering wheel 328, and electrically connected to the first and second solenoids 361,362 by a wire 378.
As can be understood from the above description and from the accompanying drawings, the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention permits suctioning of both dust and large debris from a surface, especially in one pass;
and provides a mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus that permits suctioning of dust and debris from a surface with increased efficiency and effectiveness, all of which features are unknown in the prior art.
Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field of the invention, and such variations are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. For instance, the housing of the mobile surface cleaning apparatus could be mounted generally centrally under the vehicle, between the front and rear wheels. As such, a tractor or tractor-like vehicle could be used as the vehicle in the present invention. Also, the housing of the mobile surface cleaning apparatus could be mounted at the rear of the vehicle. Further, other modifications and alterations may be used in the design and manufacture of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the accompanying claims.
Figure 1D is a side elevational view similar to Figure 1C, but with the door in an open position, and with debris entering into t:he interior of the housing;
Figure 2A is a perspective view of a second preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, with the j aw member in a closed position;
Figure 2B is a side elevational view partially cut away of the second preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 2A, but with the jaw member in an open position, and with debris entering into the interior of the housing;
Figure 3A is a perspective view of a third preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, with each of the doors in a closed position; and, Figure 3B is a top plan view partially cut away of the third preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 3A, but with each of the doors in an open position, and with debris entering into the interior of the housing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED E1~ODIMENT
Referring to Figures 1A through 3B of the drawings, it will be noted that Figures 1A through 1D illustrate the first preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention, Figures 2A and 2B illustrate the second preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention, and Figures 3A and 3B
illustrate the third preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention.
Reference will now be made to Figures 1A through 1D, which show a first preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 20. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 is for suctioning both dust and debris from a surface 22 being cleaned, such as a factory or warehouse floor, a sidewalk, or any other substantially flat surface.
g Briefly, the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 comprises a vehicle 25 carrying a vacuum source 69 and having wheels 27. A housing 30 mounted on the vehicle 25 defines a substantially hollow interior 32, and has a perimeter portion 34 that terminates downwardly in a surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 that defines a suctioning bottom opening 48, and a selectively movable portion 50. A duct 60 has an inlet end 62 connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via an internal airflow passageway 64 to an opposite outlet end 66 that is disposed at the vacuum source 69 so as to be in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source 69. A means 80 is provided for moving the selectively movable portion 50. A
selectively operable control means 90 is also provided.
The various elements of the first preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 will now be described in greater detail.
In the mobile large area surface clean apparatus 20, the vehicle 25 carries the vacuum source 69 that comprises an impeller 69a, a motor 69b, two filters 69c, and a debris receptacle 69d, as is well known in the art. The impeller could alternatively be replaced by a vacuum pump. Also, it is well known that the vacuum source, although is commonly located after the receptacle 69d, can also precede the receptacle and thereby have debris flow through it. The debris receptacle, as illustrated, has a rear dump door 69e to permit removal of debris therefrom. It is also well known in the industry to use removable top plates, tipping canisters, reusable canisters, bags, and so on. Preferably, the duct 60 is made from a rigid metal or plastic material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, UHMW (ultra-high molecular weight) plastic, or any other suitable material, as is well known in the industry.
The vehicle 25 also has four wheels 27, specifically two steerable front wheels 27f (only one shown) and two larger rear wheels 27r. The wheels 27f, 27r are for permitting travel along the surface 22 being cleaned. The apparatus 20 is self propelled and steered by a user holding onto the steering wheel 28.
Alternatively, the rear wheels 27r of the apparatus 20 could be powered by an electric motor or internal combustion engine (not shown) and also could be steerable by means of the steering wheel 28 through a suitable linkage (not shown).
The housing 30 includes a perimeter portion 34 having a front portion 35, a back portion 36, a left end portion 37, and a right end portion 38. As can be best seen in Figures 1A and 1B, the housing 30 is elongate from the left end portion 37 to its right end portion 38, and is preferably about two to three feet long (from the left end portion 37 to the right end portion 38), and is generally proportionate to the diameter of the duct 60, (about two to four inches high at the center), and about two to four inches from front to back, depending on the specific configuration of t'he housing 30.
The particular housing 30 illustrated is also tapered downwardly from a raised central portion 39 towards each of the left and right ends portions 37, 38, and is also tapered from front to back towards each of the left and right end portions 37,38. In this manner, the left and right end portions 37,38 can be used to vacuum under slightly raised objects.
As can be best seen in Figures 1A and 1B, the front portion 35 of the perimeter portion 34 of the housing 30 comprises a left front portion 351 and a right front portion 35r that are each sloped rearwardly and inwardly towards a central opening 40 that is disposed in the front portion 35 between the left front portion 351 and the right front portion 35r, in debris receiving relation with respect to a surface 22 being cleaned. The rearwardly and inwardly sloping left and right front portions 351, 35r, cause debris to be deflected towards the central opening 40 when the housing 30 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 is pushed forwardly along the surface 22 being cleaned.
Further, as can be best seen in Figure 1B, the back portion 36 cf the perimeter portion 34 of the housing 30 comprises a left back portion 361 and a right back portion 36r that are each sloped rearwardly and inwardly towards the inlet end 62 of the duct 60, so as to cause debris that enters the interior 32 of the housing 30 to be deflected towards the inlet end 62 of the duct 60 when the housing 30 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 moves forwardly along the surface 22 being cleaned.
The substantially hollow interior 32 of the housing 30 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 can best be seen in Figures 1C and 1D. The perimeter portion 34 of the housing 30 terminates downwardly in the substantially straight surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46. The surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 defines, as aforesaid, the suctioning bottom opening 48 that is continuous with the interior 32 of the housing 30.
The housing 30 is operatively mounted on the vehicle 25, such that, in use, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 is disposed adjacent the surface 22 being cleaned, in dust suctioning relation thereto. The term "dust suctioning relation" refers to the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 being a very small distance above the surface 22 being cleaned (or actually partially touching it) in order to cause the air being suctioned into the interior 32 of the housing 30 between the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 and the surface 22 being cleaned to maintain a sufficient air speed and vacuum to suction dust and other fine particulate matter into the interior 32 of the housing 30, or in other words, to maintain the housing 30 in dust suctioning relation with respect to the surface 22 being cleaned. The distance of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 above the surface 22 being cleaned is determined by the vertical adjustment of an adjustable mounting bracket (not shown) or alternatively by small wheels or skid plates mounted in vertically adjustable relation on the housing 30. This vertical adjustment may even be set such that the surface facing peripheral bottom edge at least partially contacts the surface 22 being cleaned.
In the first preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 comprises numerous downwardly projecting bristles 46b that permit the housing 30 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20 to slide along a smooth floor without doing damage to either the floor or to the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 of the housing 30. The bristles 46b also provide an airflow passageway between the surface 22 being cleaned and the remainder of the housing 30, which airflow passageway has a relatively small cross-sectional area that is preferably less than or even approximately the same as the same cross-sectional area of the internal airflow passageway 64 of the duct 60, so as to permit a suitable high speed airflow therethrough, and subsequently into the housing 30 through the suctioning bottom opening 48. In this manner, air and dust can enter the interior 32 of the housing 30, thus maintaining the housing 30 in dust suctioning relation with respect to the surface 22 being cleaned, as aforesaid. Alternatively, rubber squeegees can be used in place of the bristles 46b for applications where water is to be suctioned. Also, alternatively, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46 may be substantially straight or may be ridged.
The selectively movable portion 50 of the housing 30 permits access by debris to the interior 32 of the housing 30, as can be best seen in Figure 1D. In the first preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the selectively movable portion 50 comprises a first door 50 mounted on the front portion of the housing 30, substantially directly in front of the inlet end 62 of the duct 60, by means of a door hinge 52 having a door hinge pivot axis "DHP1", and permits access to the interior 32 of the housing 30, as aforesaid, through the debris passing opening 40. As is apparent from Figures 1A through 1D, the door hinge pivot axis "DHPl" is oriented substantially horizontally at the top of the first door 50. In this manner, the first door 50 is movable from a closed position, as is best seen in Figures 1A through 1C, upwardly and rearwardly to an open position, as indicated by arrow "A" in Figure 1D, thereby to permit ingress by debris 24 into the interior 32 of the housing 30, as indicated by arrows "B". A coil spring (not shown) is preferably integrated within the door hinge 52 so as to spring bias the first door 50 to its closed position.
The debris passing opening 40 is adjacent the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46, and preferably the debris passing opening 40 extends upwardly from the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 46, so as to most readily accommodate the passage of debris therethrough.
As can be best seen in Figures 1B through 1D, the duct 60 is mounted at its inlet end 62 to the housing 30 such that the inlet end 62 is disposed in dust and debris suctioning relation with respect to the substantially hollow interior 32 of the housing 30.
The inlet end 62 of the duct 60 is connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via the internal airflow passageway 64 to the opposite outlet end 66 disposed exteriorly to the housing 30, and connected to the vacuum source 69. The outlet end 66 is thereby also in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source 69, to thereby permit passage by debris through the duct 60 and into the vacuum source 69.
There is also means 8U for moving the selectively movable portion 50, or in other words the first door 50, from its closed position, as seen in Figures 1A through 1C, to a fully open position, as seen in Figure 1D, against the biasing of the coil spring in the hinge 52 t:o thereby permit ingress by debris into the interior 32 of the housing 30, and to thereby permit ingress by debris through the duct 60 and into the vacuum source 69. The means 80 for moving the selectively movable portion 50 comprises a manually operable cable 81 disposed within a sheath 82 and secured at its lower end 83 to the first door 50 by means of an "eye"
connector 84. The cable 81 is secured at its upper end 86 to the selectively operable control means 90 for controlling the means 80 for moving the selectively movable portion 50.
The selectively operable control means 90 comprises a hand operated lever 92 pivotally mounted onto a flange 29 on the vehicle 25 adjacent the seat 26. The cable 81 is secured at its upper end 86 to the hand operated lever 92. It is to be clearly understood that various other means may also be used to operate the door 50, such as an electric solenoid, among others, and that this patent is in no way limited in i is scope by the selection of the manually operable cable 81 and lever 92 in this first preferred embodiment.
In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, it is contemplated that although it is preferable to mount the housing 30 at the front of the vehicle 25 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20, it is also possible to mount the housing 30 on the vehicle 25 at any longitudinal position, from front to back.
For instance, the housing 30 could be mounted generally centrally from front to back, such as under a small tractor or the like.
Reference will now be made to Figures 2A and 2B, which show a second preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 of the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 220. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 is for suctioning both dust and debris from a surface 222 being cleaned, such as a factory floor, or any other substantially flat surface.
Briefly, the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 comprises a vehicle 225 carrying a vacuum source 269 and having wheels 227. A housing 230 is operatively mounted on the vehicle 225, and defines a substantially hollow interior 232, and has a perimeter portion 234 that terminates downwardly in a surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 that defines a suctioning bottom opening 248, and a selectively movable portion 250. A duct 260 has an inlet end 262 connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via an internal airflow passageway 264 to an opposite outlet end 266 that is disposed at the vacuum source 269 so as to be in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source 269.
Means 280 are provided for moving the selectively movable portion 250. Selectively operable control means 290 are also provided.
The various elements of the second preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 will now be described in greater detail.
In the mobile large area surface clean apparatus 220, the vehicle 225 carries the vacuum source 269 that comprises an impeller 269a, a motor 269b, two filters 269c, and a debris receptacle 269d, as is well known in the art. The impeller could alternatively be replaced by a vacuum pump. Also, it is well known that the vacuum source, although is commonly beyond the receptacle, c.an also precede the receptacle and thereby have debris flow through it. The debris receptacle, as illustrated, has a rear dump door 269c to permit removal of debris therefrom. It is also well known in the industry to use removable top plates, tipping canisters, removable canisters, bags, and so on. Preferably, the duct 260 is made from a rigid metal or plastic material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, UHMW (ultra-high molecular weight) plastic, or any other suitable material, as is well known in the industry.
The vehicle 225 also has four wheels 227, specifically two steerable front wheels 227f and two larger rear wheels 227r (only one shown). The wheels 227f,227r are for permitting travel along the surface 222 being cleaned. The apparatus 220 is self propelled and steered by a user holding onto the steering wheel 228.
Alternatively, the rear wheels 227r of the apparatus 220 could be powered by an electric motor or internal combustion engine (not shown) and also could be steerable by means of the steering wheel 228 through a suitable linkage (not shown).
The housing 230 includes a perimeter portion 234 having a front portion 235, a back portion 236, a left end portion 237, and a right end portion 238. As can be best seen in Figure 2A, the housing 230 is elongate from its left end portion 237 to its right end portion 238, and is preferably about two to three feet long (from the left end portion 237 to the right end portion 238) , about two to four inches high, and about two t.o four inches from front to back, depending on the specific configuration of the housing 230.
The particular housing 230 illustrated is also tapered downwardly from a raised central portion 239 towards each of the left and right ends portions 237, 238, and is also tapered from front to back towards each of the left and right end portions 237,238. In this manner, the left and right end portions 237,238 can be used to vacuum under slightly raised objects.
As can be best seen in Figure 2A, the front portion 235 of the perimeter portion 234 of the housing 230 comprises left and right forwardly projecting tabs 237t, 238t disposed one adjacent each end of the left and right end portions 237, 238 of the perimeter portion 234. The left and right forwardly projecting tabs 237t, 238t each retain debris at the front portion 235 of the perimeter portion 234 of the housing 230 and preclude the retained debris from escaping from the area in front of the front portion 235, when the housing 230 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 is pushed forwardly along the surface 222 being cleaned.
Further, as can be best seen in Figure 2A, the back portion 236 of the perimeter portion 234 of the housing 230 comprises left and right portions 2361, 236r that are each sloped rearwardly and inwardly towards the inlet end 262 of the duct 260, so as to cause debris that enters the interior of the housing 230 to be deflected towards the inlet end 262 of the duct 260 when the housing 230 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 is pushed forwardly along the surface 222 being cleaned.
The substantially hollow interior 232 of the housing 230 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 can best be seen in Figure 2B. The perimeter portion 234 of the housing 230 terminates downwardly in the substantially straight surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246. The surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 defines, as aforesaid, the suctioning bottom opening 248 that is continuous with the interior of the housing 230.
The housing 230 is operatively mounted on the vehicle 225, such that in use, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 is disposed adjacent the surface 222 being cleaned, in dust suctioning relation thereto. The term "dust suctioning relation" refers to the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 being a very small distance above the surface 222 being cleaned (or actually partially touching it) in order to cause the air being suctioned into the interior 232 of the housing 230 between the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 and the surface 222 being cleaned to maintain a sufficient air speed and vacuum to suction dust and other fine particulate matter into the interior 232 of the housing 230, or in other words, to maintain the housing 230 in dust suctioning relation with respect to the surface 222 being cleaned.
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The distance of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 above the surface 222 being cleaned is determined by the vertical adjustment of an adjustable mounting bracket (not shown) or alternatively by small wheels or skid plates mounted in vertically adjustable relation on the housing 230. This vertical adjustment m.ay even be set such that the surface facing peripheral bottom edge at least partially contacts the surface 222 being cleaned.
In the second preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 comprises numerous downwardly projecting bristles 246b that permit the housing 230 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220 to slide along a smooth floor without doing damage to either the floor or the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 of the housing 230. The bristles also provide an airflow passageway between the surface 222 being cleaned and the remainder of the housing 230, which airflow passageway has a relatively small cross-sectional area, essentially the same cross-sectional area of the internal airflow passageway of the duct 260, so as to permit a suitable high speed airflow and subsequently into the housing 230 through the suctioning bottom opening 248. In this manner, air and dust can enter the interior of the housing 230, thus maintaining the housing 230 in dust suctioning relation with respect to the surface 222 being cleaned, as aforesaid. Alternatively, rubber squeegees can be used in place of the bristles for applications where water is to be suctioned.
Also alternatively, the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 may be substantially straight or may be rigid.
The selectively movable portion 250 of the housing 230 permits access by debris to the interior of the housing 230, as can be best seen in Figure 2B. In the second preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the selectively movable portion 250 comprises a jaw member 250 that includes a jaw section. 251a of the perimeter portion 234 and a j aw section 251b of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246. The jaw member 250 is mounted on the top portion of the housing 230 by means of a jaw hinge 252 having a jaw hinge pivot axis "JHP", for movement between a closed position whereat the jaw section 251b of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 is in substantial alignment with the remainder of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246, so as to, in use, contact a surface 222 being cleaned, and an open position whereat the jaw section 251b of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 is removed from the substantial alignment with the remainder of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246, thereby to permit the access by debris to the interior 232 of the housing 230.
As best seen in Figures 2A and 2B, the jaw hinge pivot axis "JHP" is oriented substantially horizontally and is disposed on top of the housing 230. In this manner, the jaw member 250 is movable upwardly from a closed position, as best seen in Figure 2A, to an open position, as indicated by arrow "C" in Figure 2B, such that ___ _._.u...., _.,.~~,~,....
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the jaw section 251b of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246 is disposed generally above the remainder of the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246, and thereby to permit access by debris 224 to the interior of the housing 230, as indicated by arrows "D" .
A coil spring (not shown) is preferably integrated within the jaw hinge 252 so as to spring bias the jaw member 250 to its closed position.
The debris passing opening 240 is adjacent the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246, and preferably the debris passing opening 240 extends upwardly from the surface facing peripheral bottom edge 246, so as to most readily accommodate the passage of debris therethrough.
As can be best seen in Figure 2B, the duct 260 is mounted at its inlet end 262 such that the inlet end 262 disposed in dust and debris suctioning relation with respect to the substantially hollow interior 232 of the housing 230. The inlet end 262 of the duct 260 is connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via the internal airflow passageway 264 to the opposite outlet end 266 disposed exteriorly to the housing 230, and connected to the vacuum source 269. The outlet end is thereby also in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation with the vacuum source 269, to thereby permit passage by debris through the duct 260 and into the vacuum source 269.
There is also means 280 for moving the selectively movable portion 250, or in other words the jaw member 250, from its closed position, as best seen in Figure 2A, to a fully open position, as best seen in Figure 2B, against the biassing of the coil spring in the hinge 252, to thereby permit ingress by debris into the interior of the housing 230, and to thereby permit passage by debris through the duct 260 and into the vacuum source 269. The means 280 for moving the selectively movable portion 250 comprises a manually operable cable 281 disposed within a sheath 282 secured at its lower end 283 to the jaw 250 by means of an "eye" connector 284. The cable 281 is secured at its upper end 286 to the selectively operable control means for controlling the means for moving the selectively movable portion 250.
The selectively operable control means comprises a hand operated lever 292 pivotally mounted onto a flange 229 on the vehicle 225 adjacent the seat 226. The cable 281 is secured at its upper end 286 to the hand operated lever 292. It is to be clearly understood that various other means may also be used to operate the door 250, such as an electric solenoid, among others, and that this patent is in no way limited in its scope by the selection of the manually operable cable 281 and lever 292 in this second preferred embodiment.
In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, it is contemplated that although it is preferable to mount the housing 230 in front of the vehicle 225 of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 220, it is also possible to mount the housing 230 on the vehicle 225 at any longitudinal position, from front to back. For instance, the housing 230 could be mounted generally centrally from front to back, such as under a small tractor or the like.
Reference will now be made to Figures 3A and 3B, which show a third preferred embodiment of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 320. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 320 is similar to the first preferred embodiment mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus 20, except that the selectively movable portion 332 comprises both a first door 334 and a second door 336 that together cover the debris passing opening 338. The first and second doors 334,336 each are mounted on the front portion 340 of the housing 342, substantially directly in front of the inlet 362 of the duct 360, by means of a door hinges 344,346 respectively, having a substantially vertically oriented door hinge pivot axis "DHP2" and "DHP3", respectively, and permit access to the interior 347 of the housing 342, as aforesaid, through the debris passing opening 338. In this manner, the first and second doors 334,336 are movable, preferably in unison, from their closed positions, as is best seen in Figure 3A to their open positions, as indicated by arrows "E" in Figure 3B, thereby to permit passage by debris 324 into the interior 347 of the housing 342, as indicated by arrows "F". A coil spring (not shown) is preferably integrated within each of the door hinges 344 so as to spring bias the first and second doors 334,336 to their respective closed positions.
A pliable rubber strip 350 is mounted one onto the outer vertical edge 352 of each of the first and second doors 334,336 to effect a seal between the doors when they are in their closed position.
The means for moving the selectively movable portion 332, or in other words the first and second doors 334,336, from their closed position, as best seen in Figure 3A, to their open positions, as best seen in Figure 3B, comprises a first electrically operated solenoid 361 and a second electrically operated solenoid 362. As can be best seen in Figure 3B, the first and second solenoids 361, 362 are each pivotally mounted to the roof 343 of the housing 342 by means of a threaded fastener 364 in order to accommodate swivelling of the solenoids 361, 362 as they move the first and second doors 334,336. The piston arms 361p,362p of the first and second solenoids 361,362, respectively, is pivotally connected to a co-operating tab 366 projecting rearwardly from the first and second doors 334,336, respectively. The selectively operable control means 370 comprises a hand operable momentary contact single-pole single-throw pushbutton switch 372 mounted onto the steering wheel 328, and electrically connected to the first and second solenoids 361,362 by a wire 378.
As can be understood from the above description and from the accompanying drawings, the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention permits suctioning of both dust and large debris from a surface, especially in one pass;
and provides a mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus that permits suctioning of dust and debris from a surface with increased efficiency and effectiveness, all of which features are unknown in the prior art.
Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field of the invention, and such variations are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. For instance, the housing of the mobile surface cleaning apparatus could be mounted generally centrally under the vehicle, between the front and rear wheels. As such, a tractor or tractor-like vehicle could be used as the vehicle in the present invention. Also, the housing of the mobile surface cleaning apparatus could be mounted at the rear of the vehicle. Further, other modifications and alterations may be used in the design and manufacture of the mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the accompanying claims.
Claims (18)
1. A mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus for suctioning both dust and debris from a surface being cleaned, said mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus comprising:
a vehicle carrying a vacuum source and having wheels for permitting travel along said surface being cleaned;
a housing defining a substantially hollow interior, and having a perimeter portion that terminates downwardly in a surface facing peripheral bottom edge that defines a suctioning bottom opening, and operatively mounted on said vehicle such that, in use, said surface facing peripheral bottom edge is disposed adjacent with said surface being cleaned in dust suctioning relation thereto, and having a selectively movable portion for permitting ingress by debris into said interior of said housing when said apparatus is in use;
a duct having an inlet end disposed in dust and debris suctioning relation with respect to said substantially hollow interior of said housing and connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via an internal airflow passageway to an opposite outlet end disposed exteriorly to said housing and operatively connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation with said vacuum source;
means for moving said selectively movable portion to permit said ingress by debris into said interior of said housing, to thereby permit access by debris through said duct and into said vacuum source; and, selectively operable control means for controlling said means for moving said selectively movable portion.
a vehicle carrying a vacuum source and having wheels for permitting travel along said surface being cleaned;
a housing defining a substantially hollow interior, and having a perimeter portion that terminates downwardly in a surface facing peripheral bottom edge that defines a suctioning bottom opening, and operatively mounted on said vehicle such that, in use, said surface facing peripheral bottom edge is disposed adjacent with said surface being cleaned in dust suctioning relation thereto, and having a selectively movable portion for permitting ingress by debris into said interior of said housing when said apparatus is in use;
a duct having an inlet end disposed in dust and debris suctioning relation with respect to said substantially hollow interior of said housing and connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation via an internal airflow passageway to an opposite outlet end disposed exteriorly to said housing and operatively connected in fluid communication and in debris transfer relation with said vacuum source;
means for moving said selectively movable portion to permit said ingress by debris into said interior of said housing, to thereby permit access by debris through said duct and into said vacuum source; and, selectively operable control means for controlling said means for moving said selectively movable portion.
2. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein said selectively movable portion comprises a first door movable from a closed position to an open position, thereby to permit said access by debris to said interior of said housing.
3. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein said first door is disposed substantially directly in front of said inlet end of said duct.
4. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 2, wherein said first door is mounted on said housing by means of a door hinge having a door hinge pivot axis.
5. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 4, wherein said door hinge pivot axis is oriented substantially vertically.
6. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 4, wherein said door hinge pivot axis is oriented substantially horizontally.
7. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 2, wherein said selectively movable portion further comprises a second door.
8. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein said selectively movable portion permits access by debris to said interior of said housing, as aforesaid, through a debris passing opening.
9. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 8, wherein said debris passing opening is adjacent said surface facing peripheral bottom edge.
10. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 9, wherein said debris passing opening extends upwardly from said surface facing peripheral bottom edge.
11. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein said perimeter portion of said housing has a front portion, and said opening is disposed in said front portion.
12. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein said perimeter portion of said housing has a front portion comprising left and right portions that are each sloped rearwardly and inwardly, and said opening is disposed in said front portion between said left and right portions, in debris receiving relation with respect to a surface being cleaned.
13. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein said selectively movable portion comprises a jaw that includes a jaw section of said perimeter portion and a jaw section of said surface facing peripheral bottom edge, and wherein said jaw is mounted on said housing for movement between a closed position whereat said jaw section of said surface facing peripheral bottom edge is in substantial alignment with the remainder of said surface facing peripheral bottom edge, so as to, in use, contact a surface being cleaned, and an open position whereat said jaw section of said surface facing peripheral bottom edge is removed from said substantial alignment with the remainder of said surface facing peripheral bottom edge, thereby to permit said access by debris to said interior of said housing.
14. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 13, wherein said jaw moves upwardly from said closed position to said open position, such that said jaw section of said surface facing peripheral bottom edge is disposed generally above the remainder of said surface facing peripheral bottom edge.
15. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 14, wherein said selectively movable portion comprises a jaw mounted on said housing by means of a jaw hinge having a jaw hinge pivot axis.
16. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 15, wherein said jaw hinge pivot axis is substantially horizontally oriented.
17. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein said means for moving said selectively movable portion comprises a manually operable cable.
18. The mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein said means for moving said selectively movable portion comprises a electrically powered solenoid.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2357057 CA2357057A1 (en) | 2001-08-10 | 2001-08-10 | Mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2357057 CA2357057A1 (en) | 2001-08-10 | 2001-08-10 | Mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2357057A1 true CA2357057A1 (en) | 2003-02-10 |
Family
ID=4169920
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2357057 Abandoned CA2357057A1 (en) | 2001-08-10 | 2001-08-10 | Mobile large area surface cleaning apparatus |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2357057A1 (en) |
Cited By (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP1772562A1 (en) * | 2005-10-07 | 2007-04-11 | Dulevo International s.p.a. | Device for suction of waste and similar |
| WO2009039624A3 (en) * | 2007-09-26 | 2009-05-22 | Roger Vanderlinden | Pick-up head having a re-circulating air system for a mobile sweeping vehicle |
| WO2009039623A3 (en) * | 2007-09-25 | 2009-05-22 | Roger Vanderlinden | Sealed pick-up head for a mobile sweeper |
| EP2135540A1 (en) | 2008-06-18 | 2009-12-23 | Hako-Werke GMBH | Floor cleaning machine |
| WO2016034251A1 (en) * | 2014-09-05 | 2016-03-10 | Alfred Kärcher Gmbh & Co. Kg | Suction bar device for a floor cleaning machine, floor cleaning machine, and method for cleaning tile floors |
| CN112695685A (en) * | 2020-12-25 | 2021-04-23 | 刘宏伟 | Gardens artificial hillock cleaning device |
-
2001
- 2001-08-10 CA CA 2357057 patent/CA2357057A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP1772562A1 (en) * | 2005-10-07 | 2007-04-11 | Dulevo International s.p.a. | Device for suction of waste and similar |
| US7293327B2 (en) | 2005-10-07 | 2007-11-13 | Dulevo International, S.P.A. | Device for suction of waste and similar |
| CN1978791B (en) * | 2005-10-07 | 2012-10-10 | 杜勒沃国际股份公司 | Device for suction of waste |
| WO2009039623A3 (en) * | 2007-09-25 | 2009-05-22 | Roger Vanderlinden | Sealed pick-up head for a mobile sweeper |
| WO2009039624A3 (en) * | 2007-09-26 | 2009-05-22 | Roger Vanderlinden | Pick-up head having a re-circulating air system for a mobile sweeping vehicle |
| EP2135540A1 (en) | 2008-06-18 | 2009-12-23 | Hako-Werke GMBH | Floor cleaning machine |
| WO2016034251A1 (en) * | 2014-09-05 | 2016-03-10 | Alfred Kärcher Gmbh & Co. Kg | Suction bar device for a floor cleaning machine, floor cleaning machine, and method for cleaning tile floors |
| CN112695685A (en) * | 2020-12-25 | 2021-04-23 | 刘宏伟 | Gardens artificial hillock cleaning device |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Dead |