EP2967271B1 - Steamer cleaner for removing residue from surfaces - Google Patents
Steamer cleaner for removing residue from surfaces Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2967271B1 EP2967271B1 EP14775272.9A EP14775272A EP2967271B1 EP 2967271 B1 EP2967271 B1 EP 2967271B1 EP 14775272 A EP14775272 A EP 14775272A EP 2967271 B1 EP2967271 B1 EP 2967271B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- housing
- cleaning solution
- reservoir
- self
- vaporizing zone
- 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.)
- Active
Links
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 claims description 67
- 230000008016 vaporization Effects 0.000 claims description 33
- 229940112822 chewing gum Drugs 0.000 claims description 14
- 235000015218 chewing gum Nutrition 0.000 claims description 14
- 238000013020 steam cleaning Methods 0.000 claims description 11
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000002572 peristaltic effect Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- ATUOYWHBWRKTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Propane Chemical compound CCC ATUOYWHBWRKTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 6
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 description 6
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229910001369 Brass Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000013019 agitation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000010951 brass Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000002485 combustion reaction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000001294 propane Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 3
- 235000000346 sugar Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 241000272186 Falco columbarius Species 0.000 description 2
- 239000012459 cleaning agent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000003467 diminishing effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000009408 flooring Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005201 scrubbing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000377 silicon dioxide Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004215 Carbon black (E152) Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000001273 butane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002826 coolant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229930195733 hydrocarbon Natural products 0.000 description 1
- 150000002430 hydrocarbons Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- IJDNQMDRQITEOD-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-butane Chemical compound CCCC IJDNQMDRQITEOD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- OFBQJSOFQDEBGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-pentane Natural products CCCCC OFBQJSOFQDEBGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 235000021309 simple sugar Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010025 steaming Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007704 transition Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009834 vaporization Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013022 venting Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- 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
-
- 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
- A47L11/34—Machines for treating carpets in position by liquid, foam, or vapour, e.g. by steam
-
- 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
- A47L11/4072—Arrangement of castors or wheels
-
- 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
- A47L11/408—Means for supplying cleaning or surface treating agents
- A47L11/4086—Arrangements for steam generation
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B08—CLEANING
- B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
- B08B1/00—Cleaning by methods involving the use of tools
- B08B1/10—Cleaning by methods involving the use of tools characterised by the type of cleaning tool
- B08B1/12—Brushes
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B08—CLEANING
- B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
- B08B3/00—Cleaning by methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B08—CLEANING
- B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
- B08B3/00—Cleaning by methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
- B08B3/02—Cleaning by the force of jets or sprays
- B08B3/024—Cleaning by means of spray elements moving over the surface to be cleaned
-
- 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
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F23—COMBUSTION APPARATUS; COMBUSTION PROCESSES
- F23C—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR COMBUSTION USING FLUID FUEL OR SOLID FUEL SUSPENDED IN A CARRIER GAS OR AIR
- F23C5/00—Disposition of burners with respect to the combustion chamber or to one another; Mounting of burners in combustion apparatus
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B08—CLEANING
- B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
- B08B2220/00—Type of materials or objects being removed
- B08B2220/02—Chewing gum
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a self-contained and maneuverable device using a cleaning solution formed into steam to remove residue of chewing gum and the like, or stain residue, from horizontal surfaces, including both hard surfaces such as paving or sidewalks, and soft surfaces such as a carpet.
- the present invention provides a self contained and easily maneuverable cleaning machine creating a steamed cleaning solution to be applied to the residue or stain to be removed, but does not require external power and is well balanced so as to be easily portable and capable of use by a single person in a variety of locations.
- Chewing gum traditionally has a base of hydrocarbon polymers mixed with sugar and flavorings, and when such gum is chewed, the inner temperature of the mouth results in softening of the gum while the sugar and flavorings are released.
- the softened base is often discarded onto the ground where it will adhere tightly afterward, and with time the gum residue will often blacken and become rather unsightly. And, as we know, people will often step on discarded gum and carry the gum waste to adhere in another place.
- Another device disclosed in United States patent no 7,100,540 , describes a portable steam and heat generator using a backpack or truck bed for carrying a solution and fuel to be delivered to an applicator wand heating the solution to develop steam by passing the solution through a coiled pipe to be heated. Though not necessarily a steam cleaning device; this device does demonstrate structures attempting to heat a solution quickly, and near the final application of the heated solution.
- an object of the present invention to provide a self-contained and easily portable device that can be operated easily by one person to remove chewing gum residue, or other waste product adhered to a surface, or even stains, quickly and effectively.
- a self-contained steam cleaning device capable of steam cleaning and removal of residue such as chewing gum and the like from surfaces, includes an elongated housing preferably having wheels on a lower end portion and a handle on an upper portion, preferably an ergonomic handle, to enable the housing to be moved relatively easily by a single user.
- a reservoir for a cleaning solution preferably an environmentally benign sugar solution, or a known cleaning solution such as Gum Remover Solution sold by Merlin Chemicals Ltd. of Liphook,
- Hants of the United Kingdom, is provided within a lower portion of the housing.
- the upper portion of the housing receives a tank for gas, preferably propane, that with the lower reservoir enables the device to be balanced easily upon the wheels when in use.
- a vaporizing zone including a gas burner is preferably isolated within the reservoir for delivering heat to convert the cleaning solution into a steam.
- the reservoir serves as a heat exchanger with the vaporizing zone to both preheat the cleaning solution within the reservoir and to dissipate unwanted heat from the vaporizing zone.
- Conduit structures including a pump are provided for connecting the reservoir to the vaporizing zone to deliver the cleaning solution to the vaporizing zone. Conduit structures are also provided between the gas tank for connecting the gas tank to the gas burner in the vaporizing zone. Lastly, a brush is connected by conduit structure to the vaporizing zone and located externally at the lower end of the housing for receiving the steamed cleaning solution and applying it to the gum residue or the like.
- the brush can be made of a material such as brass for cleaning harden surfaces such as concrete, or nylon for use indoors on such items as carpeting or flooring.
- the reservoir includes a silica cloth insulation to aid in serving as a heat exchanger with the vaporizing zone.
- Air for the combustion is drawn in from a front opening in the housing near the gas burner and escapes from a rearward opening.
- the pump delivering the cleaning solution to the vaporizing zone be a battery-powered peristaltic pump providing a constant fluid pressure sufficient to drive the steam produced in the vaporizing zone to an escape tube leading to the brush.
- the cleaning solution delivered to the vaporizing zone be the entire cleaning solution to be used for removing the residue so that no ancillary cleaning solutions need be used.
- chewing gum residue or similar products adhering to a surface can be cleaned easily by a single person without the need for ancillary power sources.
- the gas is ignited by a piezo ignition switch after the pump has been switched on to ensure that the cleaning solution is inside the vaporizing coil.
- the flow is adjusted so that there is steam escaping from the nozzle and a slight hot water drip as well.
- a 2 liter reservoir can be used that will typically last between 1.5 -2 hours depending on the required flow rate.
- Batteries are provided for the pump and ignition; and the device may be made in two sections connected by a hinge to enable the device to be folded into a compact condition for storage and transportation.
- the device is shown in Fig. 1 , and one person can operate the device by using the ergonomic handle 15 to guide the device so that the brass or nylon brush 7 at the opposite end can be held onto a residue of chewing gum or the like for a couple of seconds, firstly to heat the gum with the steam of a cleaning solution, and then by agitation to remove the gum.
- a cleaning solution from reservoir 9 shown in the cut-away of Fig. 2 is pumped through conduit 5 to a small metal coil 10 of tubing that is then heated by a burner 6 fed by gas supply pipe 4 from a gas supply 1 of butane or propane to vaporize the cleaning solution.
- Pump 13 pressurizes the conduits for the cleaning solution so that it is fed as a heated steam through reduced-diameter exit pipe 8 to the brush 7 where, with agitation, the user can soften the chewing gum residue (if it has hardened) and remove it. Or, similarly, remove stains.
- the cleaning solution preferred is Gum Remover Solution sold by Merlin Chemicals Ltd. of Liphook, Hants, the United Kingdom; or a simple sugar solution has also been found effective.
- the reservoir 9 for the cleaning solution has a silica cloth insulation, and is in the lower section of the device and is formed in two sections formed around the heating chamber serving as the vaporizing zone of the device.
- the reservoir 9 holding the cleaning solution acts as a cooling medium to take some of the unwanted heat away from the heating chamber after the coil 10 is heated by the burner 6; and can serve to preheat the cleaning solution in the reservoir 9.
- the coil 10 can be shaped in a spoon-like manner so the turns of the coil have a reducing diameter as they extend from the flame, and this allows the flame to apply heat to more surface area on the shaped coil.
- An opening 12 serves as an exit for heat from the combustion area.
- Fig. 4 illustrates an embodiment for the internal structures wherein the spacing A-A for the two coils 10 a and 10 b is 100 mm to exemplify the geometry.
- the pump 13 preferably is a peristaltic pump to ensure a small and consistent flow is carried to the coil 10. If a diaphragm type pump were used, it may cause the cleaning solution to foam and give an inconsistent flow to the coil 10.
- Air for the combustion is drawn in from a front opening in the housing behind the burner 6 and escapes from a side opening 12.
- a wind baffle 18 may be provided in a lower region of the housing serving as the exhaust to prevent back flow of air that may inadvertently cool the vaporizing zone or possibly extinguish the flame from the gas burner, or direct it away from the coil.
- the fuel is ignited by a piezo ignition switch after switching on the pump to ensure that the cleaning solution is inside the coil 10.
- the flow is adjusted so that approximately there is steam escaping from the nozzle and a slight drip as well, and a flow of 16-20 ml/minute has been found to be successful in providing steam and a drip of hot cleaning solution.
- a 2 liter tank will last between 1.5 -2 hours depending on the required flow rate.
- Batteries 2 are provided for the pump and ignition; and wheels 3 enable the device of the present invention to be maneuverable.
- the reservoir for the cleaning solution can be filled through removable cap 11 and a control for the flow of fuel is actuated by knob 16 controlling a needle valve.
- the device may be made in two sections connected by hinge 14 to enable the device to be folded into a compact condition, as shown in Fig. 3 , for storage and transportation.
- the gas typically propane, is delivered through a micro adjustment inlet to regulate the gas pressure.
- the vaporizing zone includes the gas burner 6, coils 10 a and 10 b , and exhaust tube.
- the interconnected coils 10 a and 10 b form a pipe assembly delivering the cleaning solution from reservoir 9 to the gas burner 6.
- this pipe assembly includes a first coil portion 10a serving as a vaporizing coil having the radius of turns diminishing to form a generally frustroconical configuration.
- the gas burner 6 is positioned centrally adjacent the portion of the vaporizing coil 10a with the larger radius with the diminishing turns leading away from the gas burner 6. In this way, the flame from the burner can heat a greater surface area of the pipe assembly containing the cleaning solution to be vaporized.
- the pipe assembly includes a non-linear conduit portion 22 leading to the turns of the vaporizing coil 10a having the smaller radius for delivering the cleaning solution to the vaporizing coil, and a heat-exchanging second coil 10 b for delivering the cleaning solution to the conduit portion 22.
- the heat-exchanging second coil 10 b has the radius of turns increasing from the conduit portion to form a generally frustroconical configuration, and receives the cleaning solution through conduits from the reservoir 9.
- the heat-exchanging second coil 10 b is located to receive the exhaust from the gas burner 6 as it enters the exhaust tube. In this way, the cleaning solution is preheated within heat-exchanging coil 10 b before being delivered to the vaporizing coil 10 b . Thus, the cleaning solution is preheated in the reservoir due to the vaporizing zone being located within the reservoir, and the exhaust leading to heat-exchanging coil 10 b .
- the conduit portion 22 also serves as a heat exchanger with the exhaust from the gas burner to preheat the cleaning solution further just before it enters the vaporizing coil 10a.
- the cleaning solution is preheated to provide a very quick transition to steam in the vaporizing coil.
- the cleaning solution delivered to the vaporizing zone be the entire cleaning solution to be used for removing the residue so that no ancillary cleaning solutions need be used.
- the exhaust tube as shown in Fig. 4 has venting holes 24 at its end portion downstream of the burner 6, and the end portion is closed off by a rear wall 23. With baffle 18, these structures for the exhaust tube protect against back drafts when the device is used outdoors in windy conditions. The exhaust from the burner 6 will flow outwards through the holes 24 and out through vents in the walls of the housing.
- a portion 25 of the conduit delivering the cleaning solution to the vaporizing zone extends along the exhaust tube to further serve as a heat exchanger receiving heat from the exhaust tube to preheat the cleaning solution.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Cleaning By Liquid Or Steam (AREA)
- Cleaning In General (AREA)
Description
- The present invention relates to a self-contained and maneuverable device using a cleaning solution formed into steam to remove residue of chewing gum and the like, or stain residue, from horizontal surfaces, including both hard surfaces such as paving or sidewalks, and soft surfaces such as a carpet.
- Several devices have been proposed to remove stains or chewing gum and other products such as oil, tar and the like which can form a residue that can adhere stubbornly to outdoor surfaces such as sidewalks, as well as indoors on carpeting or flooring. It is often desired to remove stubbornly adhered products such as discarded chewing gum, particularly in many areas traveled by persons on foot, as in the front of restaurants, pedestrian malls, inside a stadium, or on a busy shopping street. Also, stains on outdoor surfaces or on indoor carpeting also are desirable to be removed.
- The present invention provides a self contained and easily maneuverable cleaning machine creating a steamed cleaning solution to be applied to the residue or stain to be removed, but does not require external power and is well balanced so as to be easily portable and capable of use by a single person in a variety of locations.
- Chewing gum traditionally has a base of hydrocarbon polymers mixed with sugar and flavorings, and when such gum is chewed, the inner temperature of the mouth results in softening of the gum while the sugar and flavorings are released. The softened base is often discarded onto the ground where it will adhere tightly afterward, and with time the gum residue will often blacken and become rather unsightly. And, as we know, people will often step on discarded gum and carry the gum waste to adhere in another place.
- It has been well understood that a heated cleaning agent can be used to remove such gum residue and similar waste; but prior removal devices typically require connection to external power, are cumbersome, and often time consuming to use.
- There have been many proposals to remove such waste as chewing gum residue. One such device is disclosed in United Kingdom patent application no.
GB 2491661 published December 12, 2012 - Another device, disclosed in United States patent no
7,100,540 , describes a portable steam and heat generator using a backpack or truck bed for carrying a solution and fuel to be delivered to an applicator wand heating the solution to develop steam by passing the solution through a coiled pipe to be heated. Though not necessarily a steam cleaning device; this device does demonstrate structures attempting to heat a solution quickly, and near the final application of the heated solution. - Similarly, published United States patent applications nos.
US 2002/0026954 andUS 2011/0232685 disclose cleaning methods and apparati having a hand held wand connected to a separate transport for fuel and cleaning solution. - It has also been proposed to remove residual chewing gum by use of cryogenic or extremely cold gas to spray onto the gum residue to freeze the residue, but it is not easy to move all of the gum residue without undue scrubbing. Also, use of a flame to burn the gum residue has been proposed. Such techniques, however, are not generally safe to use, especially in public places. Use of hot or steaming water with a chemical cleaning agent added has also been proposed, but such devices typically will use a lot of water and may cause unwanted pollution.
- It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide a self-contained and easily portable device that can be operated easily by one person to remove chewing gum residue, or other waste product adhered to a surface, or even stains, quickly and effectively.
- It is another object of the present invention to provide a cleaning device that is not only self-contained, but well balanced, so that one person by using a handle on one end of the device can guide a brass or nylon brush at the opposite end against the residue of chewing gum or the like for just a couple of seconds, firstly to heat the residue with the steam of a cleaning solution, and then by agitation, to remove the residue quickly and effectively.
- And it is a further object of the present invention to provide such a cleaning device that efficiently can heat the cleaning solution to vaporize it into steam quickly, yet remain a self contained, portable and easily maneuverable device.
- It is desired, therefore, to provide a device that in practice can create steam of a cleaning solution to be applied through a scrubbing bush by a well-balanced and maneuverable machine so that pressure can be supplied easily to the brush delivering the steam, and in this way, remove such items as chewing gum residue in as little as 2 or 3 seconds.
- According to the present invention, a self-contained steam cleaning device capable of steam cleaning and removal of residue such as chewing gum and the like from surfaces, includes an elongated housing preferably having wheels on a lower end portion and a handle on an upper portion, preferably an ergonomic handle, to enable the housing to be moved relatively easily by a single user. A reservoir for a cleaning solution, preferably an environmentally benign sugar solution, or a known cleaning solution such as Gum Remover Solution sold by Merlin Chemicals Ltd. of Liphook,
- Hants, of the United Kingdom, is provided within a lower portion of the housing. The upper portion of the housing receives a tank for gas, preferably propane, that with the lower reservoir enables the device to be balanced easily upon the wheels when in use.
- A vaporizing zone including a gas burner is preferably isolated within the reservoir for delivering heat to convert the cleaning solution into a steam. By placing the vaporizing zone within the reservoir for the cleaning solution, the reservoir serves as a heat exchanger with the vaporizing zone to both preheat the cleaning solution within the reservoir and to dissipate unwanted heat from the vaporizing zone.
- Conduit structures including a pump are provided for connecting the reservoir to the vaporizing zone to deliver the cleaning solution to the vaporizing zone. Conduit structures are also provided between the gas tank for connecting the gas tank to the gas burner in the vaporizing zone. Lastly, a brush is connected by conduit structure to the vaporizing zone and located externally at the lower end of the housing for receiving the steamed cleaning solution and applying it to the gum residue or the like. The brush can be made of a material such as brass for cleaning harden surfaces such as concrete, or nylon for use indoors on such items as carpeting or flooring.
- In preferred form, the reservoir includes a silica cloth insulation to aid in serving as a heat exchanger with the vaporizing zone.
- Air for the combustion is drawn in from a front opening in the housing near the gas burner and escapes from a rearward opening. It is preferred that the pump delivering the cleaning solution to the vaporizing zone be a battery-powered peristaltic pump providing a constant fluid pressure sufficient to drive the steam produced in the vaporizing zone to an escape tube leading to the brush. With the well balanced device, the brush can be moved across the residue by simple movement with the attached wheels to quickly remove the residue; often within 2 or 3 seconds.
- It is contemplated that the cleaning solution delivered to the vaporizing zone be the entire cleaning solution to be used for removing the residue so that no ancillary cleaning solutions need be used.
- By use of a device according to the present invention, chewing gum residue or similar products adhering to a surface can be cleaned easily by a single person without the need for ancillary power sources.
- Thus, removal of such residues can be completed in areas where there is not any external source of power; or the need to provide long power cords or separate trolleys or carts for the equipment.
- In operation, the gas is ignited by a piezo ignition switch after the pump has been switched on to ensure that the cleaning solution is inside the vaporizing coil. The flow is adjusted so that there is steam escaping from the nozzle and a slight hot water drip as well. A 2 liter reservoir can be used that will typically last between 1.5 -2 hours depending on the required flow rate.
- Batteries are provided for the pump and ignition; and the device may be made in two sections connected by a hinge to enable the device to be folded into a compact condition for storage and transportation.
- These and other objects, and advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the description given below which is made in conjunction with the following drawing figures:
-
-
Fig 1 is a prospective view of a self-contained steam cleaning device of the present invention; -
Fig. 2 illustrates the internal components thereof; -
Fig. 3 illustrates the device ofFig. 1 in its hinged condition; -
Fig. 4 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the internal components. - The device is shown in
Fig. 1 , and one person can operate the device by using the ergonomic handle 15 to guide the device so that the brass ornylon brush 7 at the opposite end can be held onto a residue of chewing gum or the like for a couple of seconds, firstly to heat the gum with the steam of a cleaning solution, and then by agitation to remove the gum. - A cleaning solution from reservoir 9 shown in the cut-away of
Fig. 2 is pumped through conduit 5 to asmall metal coil 10 of tubing that is then heated by a burner 6 fed by gas supply pipe 4 from a gas supply 1 of butane or propane to vaporize the cleaning solution. Pump 13 pressurizes the conduits for the cleaning solution so that it is fed as a heated steam through reduced-diameter exit pipe 8 to thebrush 7 where, with agitation, the user can soften the chewing gum residue (if it has hardened) and remove it. Or, similarly, remove stains. - For cleaning gum residue, the cleaning solution preferred is Gum Remover Solution sold by Merlin Chemicals Ltd. of Liphook, Hants, the United Kingdom; or a simple sugar solution has also been found effective.
- The reservoir 9 for the cleaning solution has a silica cloth insulation, and is in the lower section of the device and is formed in two sections formed around the heating chamber serving as the vaporizing zone of the device.
- In this way, the reservoir 9 holding the cleaning solution acts as a cooling medium to take some of the unwanted heat away from the heating chamber after the
coil 10 is heated by the burner 6; and can serve to preheat the cleaning solution in the reservoir 9. Thecoil 10 can be shaped in a spoon-like manner so the turns of the coil have a reducing diameter as they extend from the flame, and this allows the flame to apply heat to more surface area on the shaped coil. An opening 12 serves as an exit for heat from the combustion area. - The distance from the burner 6 and the
coil 10 is set so the flame is able to vaporize the cleaning solution quickly. A spacing of 24.54 mm for the geometry and dimensions shown inFig. 4 has been found effective.Fig. 4 illustrates an embodiment for the internal structures wherein the spacing A-A for the two coils 10a and 10b is 100 mm to exemplify the geometry. - Due to the fact that the pump 13 is continually pushing the cleaning solution into the
coil 10, the steam will find the easiest access point which is the escape tube 8 leading to thebrush 7. The escape tube 8 has a reduced diameter to increase the volume of the steam flow. The pump 13 preferably is a peristaltic pump to ensure a small and consistent flow is carried to thecoil 10. If a diaphragm type pump were used, it may cause the cleaning solution to foam and give an inconsistent flow to thecoil 10. - Air for the combustion is drawn in from a front opening in the housing behind the burner 6 and escapes from a side opening 12. As shown in
Fig. 4 , a wind baffle 18 may be provided in a lower region of the housing serving as the exhaust to prevent back flow of air that may inadvertently cool the vaporizing zone or possibly extinguish the flame from the gas burner, or direct it away from the coil. - In operation, the fuel is ignited by a piezo ignition switch after switching on the pump to ensure that the cleaning solution is inside the
coil 10. The flow is adjusted so that approximately there is steam escaping from the nozzle and a slight drip as well, and a flow of 16-20 ml/minute has been found to be successful in providing steam and a drip of hot cleaning solution. - A 2 liter tank will last between 1.5 -2 hours depending on the required flow rate.
-
Batteries 2 are provided for the pump and ignition; andwheels 3 enable the device of the present invention to be maneuverable. - The reservoir for the cleaning solution can be filled through removable cap 11 and a control for the flow of fuel is actuated by
knob 16 controlling a needle valve. - The device may be made in two sections connected by
hinge 14 to enable the device to be folded into a compact condition, as shown inFig. 3 , for storage and transportation. - The gas, typically propane, is delivered through a micro adjustment inlet to regulate the gas pressure.
- In the embodiment of
Fig. 4 , the vaporizing zone includes the gas burner 6, coils 10a and 10b, and exhaust tube. The interconnected coils 10a and 10b form a pipe assembly delivering the cleaning solution from reservoir 9 to the gas burner 6. To increase efficiency in heating the cleaning solution quickly to steam, this pipe assembly includes a first coil portion 10a serving as a vaporizing coil having the radius of turns diminishing to form a generally frustroconical configuration. The gas burner 6 is positioned centrally adjacent the portion of the vaporizing coil 10a with the larger radius with the diminishing turns leading away from the gas burner 6. In this way, the flame from the burner can heat a greater surface area of the pipe assembly containing the cleaning solution to be vaporized. - To further increase efficient of the vaporization of the cleaning solution to steam, the pipe assembly includes a non-linear conduit portion 22 leading to the turns of the vaporizing coil 10a having the smaller radius for delivering the cleaning solution to the vaporizing coil, and a heat-exchanging second coil 10b for delivering the cleaning solution to the conduit portion 22. The heat-exchanging second coil 10b has the radius of turns increasing from the conduit portion to form a generally frustroconical configuration, and receives the cleaning solution through conduits from the reservoir 9.
- The heat-exchanging second coil 10b is located to receive the exhaust from the gas burner 6 as it enters the exhaust tube. In this way, the cleaning solution is preheated within heat-exchanging coil 10b before being delivered to the vaporizing coil 10b. Thus, the cleaning solution is preheated in the reservoir due to the vaporizing zone being located within the reservoir, and the exhaust leading to heat-exchanging coil 10b. The conduit portion 22 also serves as a heat exchanger with the exhaust from the gas burner to preheat the cleaning solution further just before it enters the vaporizing coil 10a.
- In this way, the cleaning solution is preheated to provide a very quick transition to steam in the vaporizing coil.
- It is contemplated that the cleaning solution delivered to the vaporizing zone be the entire cleaning solution to be used for removing the residue so that no ancillary cleaning solutions need be used.
- The exhaust tube as shown in
Fig. 4 has ventingholes 24 at its end portion downstream of the burner 6, and the end portion is closed off by arear wall 23. With baffle 18, these structures for the exhaust tube protect against back drafts when the device is used outdoors in windy conditions. The exhaust from the burner 6 will flow outwards through theholes 24 and out through vents in the walls of the housing. - Further, a
portion 25 of the conduit delivering the cleaning solution to the vaporizing zone extends along the exhaust tube to further serve as a heat exchanger receiving heat from the exhaust tube to preheat the cleaning solution.
Claims (7)
- A self-contained steam cleaning device for removing residue such as stains, chewing gum and the like from surfaces, including an elongated housing with a handle (15) and a reservoir (9) adapted to receive a cleaning solution, a vaporizing zone including a gas burner (6) within said housing for delivering heat to convert said cleaning solution into a steam, conduit structure including a pump (13) for connecting said reservoir (9) to said vaporizing zone to deliver said cleaning solution to said vaporizing zone, said housing adapted to receive a gas tank (1), where there is a conduit structure within said housing for connecting said gas tank (1) to said gas burner (6), and a cleaning element such as a brush (7) connected by the conduit structure to said vaporizing zone and located externally of said housing for receiving said steam and applying it to the residue to be removed, characterized in that said elongated housing has an upper portion, a lower portion, and a lower end portion, the upper portion of said housing being adapted to receive the gas tank (1), and the lower portion of said housing accommodates the reservoir (9), and further, the handle (15) is located on the upper portion of said housing, and the lower end portion of the housing has wheels (3) as to enable the housing to be moved by a single user.
- A self-contained steam cleaning device as set forth in claim 1, said vaporizing zone being isolated within said reservoir (9) and including insulation to serve as a heat exchanger with said vaporizing zone.
- A self-contained steam cleaning device as set forth in claim 1, the cleaning solution to be received within said reservoir (9) being the entire cleaning solution to be used for removing the residue.
- A self-contained steam cleaning device as set forth in claim 1, said pump (13) being a peristaltic pump.
- A self-contained steam cleaning device as set forth in claim 1, said conduit structure located adjacent said burner (6) for delivering said cleaning solution, said pipe assembly including a first coil portion (10a) separated by a length of tubing to a second coil portion (10b), said burner (6) positioned centrally adjacent said first coil portion (10a).
- A self-contained steam cleaning device as set forth in claim 1, said housing being adapted to be positioned upon said two wheels (3) to be attached respectively on opposite sides of said housing to locate said cleaning element in a position upon the surface area to be cleaned with the operator able to apply a desired pressure to said cleaning element from the weight of said device by manipulating the device on said wheels (3).
- A self-contained steam cleaning device as set forth in claim 1, said reservoir (9) being located within the lower portion of the housing and said gas tank (1) being located in the upper portion of said housing.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201361784389P | 2013-03-14 | 2013-03-14 | |
PCT/US2014/023975 WO2014159513A1 (en) | 2013-03-14 | 2014-03-12 | Steamer cleaner for removing residue from surfaces |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2967271A1 EP2967271A1 (en) | 2016-01-20 |
EP2967271A4 EP2967271A4 (en) | 2017-02-22 |
EP2967271B1 true EP2967271B1 (en) | 2019-04-24 |
Family
ID=51625184
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP14775272.9A Active EP2967271B1 (en) | 2013-03-14 | 2014-03-12 | Steamer cleaner for removing residue from surfaces |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
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EP (1) | EP2967271B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN105916425B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2014159513A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB201419365D0 (en) | 2014-10-30 | 2014-12-17 | Whitbread Martin And Brading Jared | Steam dispensing apparatus |
CN108784559A (en) * | 2017-04-28 | 2018-11-13 | 盈太企业股份有限公司 | Steam generation device and steam appliance |
CN107184104A (en) * | 2017-05-25 | 2017-09-22 | 九阳股份有限公司 | A kind of cleaning method of cooking equipment |
DE202021102732U1 (en) | 2021-05-19 | 2021-05-27 | Leifheit Aktiengesellschaft | Attachment for a steam cleaning device and steam cleaning device with weed killing function |
Family Cites Families (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4327459A (en) * | 1980-04-14 | 1982-05-04 | Metropolitan Vacuum Cleaner Co., Inc. | Combined steam and vacuum cleaner |
FR2762531B1 (en) * | 1997-04-28 | 1999-08-13 | Superba Sa | OMNIDIRECTIONAL PORTABLE VAPOR CLEANING DEVICE FOR HARD OR SOFT SURFACES |
US20020026954A1 (en) | 1997-07-01 | 2002-03-07 | Richard Arthur Tyler | Cleaning method and apparatus |
CA2418548A1 (en) * | 2003-02-07 | 2004-08-07 | Steven Vaughan | Method and apparatus for controlling weeds |
EP1498063A1 (en) * | 2003-07-18 | 2005-01-19 | WALSER & CO. AG | Method and device for cleaning of surfaces, in particular floor surfaces |
CA2739334A1 (en) | 2008-10-01 | 2010-04-08 | Dr. Gum Inc. | Apparatus and method for removing gum deposits, adhesive substances, paint and the like from surfaces |
GB2491661B (en) * | 2011-06-06 | 2014-05-07 | Merlin Chemicals Ltd | Cleaning apparatus with burner and heat exchange head |
CN202442312U (en) * | 2012-02-26 | 2012-09-19 | 邹爱贞 | Multifunctional steam generator |
CN102860794B (en) * | 2012-09-18 | 2014-10-22 | 苏州诚河清洁设备有限公司 | Integrated machine for absorbing dust and cleaning steam |
-
2014
- 2014-03-12 CN CN201480023987.7A patent/CN105916425B/en active Active
- 2014-03-12 EP EP14775272.9A patent/EP2967271B1/en active Active
- 2014-03-12 WO PCT/US2014/023975 patent/WO2014159513A1/en active Application Filing
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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CN105916425B (en) | 2019-06-11 |
EP2967271A4 (en) | 2017-02-22 |
CN105916425A (en) | 2016-08-31 |
EP2967271A1 (en) | 2016-01-20 |
WO2014159513A1 (en) | 2014-10-02 |
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