EP3725207A2 - A multi-orientation cleaning device - Google Patents
A multi-orientation cleaning device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3725207A2 EP3725207A2 EP20151451.0A EP20151451A EP3725207A2 EP 3725207 A2 EP3725207 A2 EP 3725207A2 EP 20151451 A EP20151451 A EP 20151451A EP 3725207 A2 EP3725207 A2 EP 3725207A2
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- cleaning
- storage container
- fluid
- pump
- orientation
- 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.)
- Granted
Links
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 144
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 119
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 25
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 19
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- 230000037361 pathway Effects 0.000 claims description 31
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 7
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920000742 Cotton Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001410 Microfiber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000000443 aerosol Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002939 deleterious effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003658 microfiber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003595 mist Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003607 modifier Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000029058 respiratory gaseous exchange Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006467 substitution reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 210000002268 wool Anatomy 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B15/00—Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
- B05B15/30—Dip tubes
-
- 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
- A47L13/00—Implements for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L13/10—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing
- A47L13/20—Mops
- A47L13/22—Mops with liquid-feeding devices
-
- 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
- A47L13/00—Implements for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L13/10—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing
- A47L13/20—Mops
- A47L13/24—Frames for mops; Mop heads
- A47L13/254—Plate frames
-
- 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
- A47L13/00—Implements for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L13/10—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing
- A47L13/42—Details
- A47L13/46—Securing scouring or polishing cloths or sponges to the handles by gripping means, tongs, or the like
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B1/00—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means
- B05B1/30—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to control volume of flow, e.g. with adjustable passages
- B05B1/3006—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to control volume of flow, e.g. with adjustable passages the controlling element being actuated by the pressure of the fluid to be sprayed
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B15/00—Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
- B05B15/40—Filters located upstream of the spraying outlets
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B9/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent material, without essentially mixing with gas or vapour
- B05B9/03—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent material, without essentially mixing with gas or vapour characterised by means for supplying liquid or other fluent material
- B05B9/04—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent material, without essentially mixing with gas or vapour characterised by means for supplying liquid or other fluent material with pressurised or compressible container; with pump
- B05B9/08—Apparatus to be carried on or by a person, e.g. of knapsack type
- B05B9/085—Apparatus to be carried on or by a person, e.g. of knapsack type with a liquid pump
- B05B9/0855—Apparatus to be carried on or by a person, e.g. of knapsack type with a liquid pump the pump being motor-driven
- B05B9/0861—Apparatus to be carried on or by a person, e.g. of knapsack type with a liquid pump the pump being motor-driven the motor being electric
Definitions
- the present application is a continuation-in-part application of United States Patent Application Serial No. 16/032,846 filed on July 11, 2018 , which is a divisional application of United States Patent Application Serial No. 15/704,993 filed on September 14, 2017 , now United States Patent 10,070,766 , which claims the benefit of United States Provisional Application Serial No. 62/394,643 filed on September 14, 2016 and claims the benefit of United States Provisional Application Serial No. 62/452,891 filed on January 31, 2017 .
- the present application is also a continuation-in-part application of United States Patent Application Serial No. 15/849,797 filed on December 21, 2017 , which is a divisional application of United States Application Serial No.
- the present disclosure is related to cleaning devices. More particularly, the present disclosure is related to cleaning devices that spray cleaning fluids to assist the cleaning of hard surfaces.
- Cleaning devices that allow for the cleaning of hard surfaces such as, but not limited to, window, walls, counters, floors, mirrors, tiles, tables, and others are known. Some prior art cleaning devices are also known to include cleaning fluid spraying systems - that allow the user to spray cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned.
- a cleaning device includes a power source and a pump in selective electrical communication with the power source.
- a storage container is provided.
- a valve assembly is disposed in the storage container and in fluid communication with the pump, the valve assembly being configured to selectively flow cleaning fluid from a first portion and a second portion of the storage container.
- a cleaning element having a spray nozzle is in fluid communication with the pump.
- further embodiments of the device may include the valve assembly having a first fluid pathway in fluid communication with the first portion and a second fluid pathway in fluid communication with the second portion.
- further embodiments of the device may include a first valve fluidly coupled to the first fluid pathway between the first portion and the pump, the first valve being configured to selectively fluidly couple the first portion to the pump based at least in part on the orientation of the device.
- further embodiments of the device may include the first valve fluidly couples the first portion to the pump when the first portion is vertically lower than the second portion.
- further embodiments of the device may include the first valve fluidly decoupling the first portion from the pump when the first portion is vertically higher than the second portion.
- further embodiments of the device may include a vent member fluidly coupled between an interior portion of the storage container and an ambient environment.
- further embodiments of the device may include the vent member selectively flowing air into the interior environment in response to activation of the pump.
- further embodiments of the device may include the storage container including a removable cap, the cap being sealingly coupled to the storage container. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the storage container being removably coupled to the pump. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the storage container being refillable by the end user. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the storage container being made from a substantially rigid material. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include a tube fixedly coupled between the storage container and the pump to define a flow path therebetween.
- a method of cleaning a surface includes providing a storage container, a cleaning head and a pump that are connected to one another. Cleaning fluid is flowed through a first fluid pathway when the storage container is in a first orientation. Cleaning fluid is flowed through a second fluid pathway when the storage container is in a second orientation. Cleaning fluid is flowed from the first fluid pathway or the second fluid pathway to the cleaning head.
- further embodiments of the method may include the storage container being in a first orientation when the cleaning fluid flows through the first fluid pathway and is in a second orientation when the cleaning fluid flows through the second fluid pathway, the first orientation being different than the second orientation.
- further embodiments of the method may include closing a valve in the first fluid pathway when the storage container is in the second orientation. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include refilling the storage container with cleaning fluid. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include fluidly decoupling the storage container from the pump before refilling the storage container.
- a cleaning device including a power source and a pump in selective electrical communication with the power source.
- a storage container is in fluid communication with the pump.
- a cleaning head having a first opening and a spray nozzle is provided, the spray nozzle being in fluid communication with the pump, the spray nozzle being disposed to direct cleaning fluid through the opening.
- An adapter member is removably coupled to the cleaning head.
- a cleaning element is removably coupled to the adapter member.
- further embodiments of the device may include the adapter member having a hook and loop fastener, the cleaning element being removably coupled to the adapter member via the hook and loop member.
- further embodiments of the device may include the cleaning element being a disposable cleaning element.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for a cleaning device that can be operated in multiple orientations, including on a floor, a window, a wall, and/or the ceiling.
- the cleaning device includes a substantially rigid cleaning fluid container.
- the substantially rigid cleaning fluid container is refillable.
- the substantially rigid cleaning fluid container is translucent, allowing the user to see how much cleaning fluid remains.
- the device 20 includes a handle or pole 22.
- the pole 22 has a handle end 24, which can include one or more actuators 26 and/or pole connectors 28. In some embodiments, there may be one or more additional actuators (not shown) on the device 20, such as on a housing 36 for example.
- the pole 22 may be extendable in a similar manner to that described in commonly-owned United States Patent Application Serial No. 16/032,846 entitled “Hard Surface Cleaning Devices" filed on July 11, 2018, the contents of which is incorporated by reference herein.
- the pole 22 is coupled to a dispensing section 30.
- the pole 22 includes a lock member 32 and the dispensing section 30 includes a locking opening 34. The engagement of the lock member 32 in the locking opening 34 secures the pole 22 to the dispensing section 30.
- the dispensing section 30 includes the housing 36. As will be discussed in more detail herein, the housing 36 contains a cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly. In an embodiment, the cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly is operably coupled to the actuator 26 and any other actuators on the device 20 for causing the cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly to dispense cleaning fluid during operation.
- the dispensing section 30 is connected to a cleaning head 38 by a connector 40.
- the connector 40 may be any suitable hinged attachment that allows the head 38 to rotate about a single or two orthogonal axis during operation.
- a cleaning element 42 couples to the head 38.
- the element 42 may connect with the head 38 via straps 44, or by other suitable means, such as a hook and loop fastener for example.
- the cleaning element 42 may be a cleaning pad made from a suitable material, such as but not limited to microfiber, cotton, wool, non-woven fibers, or any combination thereof.
- the cleaning element 42 may further include other elements, such as but not limited to brush bristles, a squeegee, a scraper, or any other cleaning element or combinations thereof.
- an adapter plate 41 FIG. 19 ) may be provided that allows the user to switch between a cleaning element 42A that uses straps 44 and a cleaning element 42 that uses hook and loop fasteners 43.
- the adapter plate 41 includes tabs 45 that couple with the cleaning head 38, such as by engaging around the edge of the cleaning head 38 with one or more snapfits.
- the adapter plate 41 also includes an opening 47 that allows cleaning fluid from the nozzles to be directed therethrough.
- the cleaning element 42A is a disposable cleaning element that is intended to be discarded.
- the cleaning element 42, 42A is re-usage and is washable when it accumulates debris.
- the dispensing section 30 is further fluidly coupled to the head 38 by a conduit or dispensing tube 46 that exits an outlet 48 below removable cover 50 in the housing 36.
- the tube 46 couples with a pump and provides a fluid pathway for transferring cleaning fluid to the head 38.
- the tube 46 connects with a spray nozzle 54 via an inlet 52.
- the head 38 and the cleaning element 42 each include a central opening 56, 58 respectively.
- the nozzle 54 is recessed with respect to the bottom surface of the head 38, which offsets the nozzle from the cleaning surface to facility distribution of the cleaning fluid and prevent the nozzles from being damaged during use.
- device 10 - by capturing the spray of the cleaning fluid between head 38 and the surface being cleaned - prevents airborne cleaning fluid from being present in the air near the user's mouth and nose, particularly as the device is held at or above head level while cleaning windows, mirrors, and the like.
- the cleaning fluid often includes chemicals with a viscosity low enough to be formed into a mist - namely atomized or formed into an aerosol - by the spraying through nozzles 54.
- the atomized cleaning fluid can disadvantageously pass through the breathing space - an outcome that device 20 reduces by constraining the spray of the cleaning fluid between head 38 and the surface being cleaned.
- the device 20 is configured to pump cleaning fluid from container 60 to one or more spray nozzles 54 (one shown) directly onto the surface being cleaned.
- central opening 56 that is in alignment or registration with an opening 58 in the cleaning member 42, 42A (and the adapter plate 41 in some embodiments) so that spray nozzles 54 spray the cleaning fluid through the openings onto the surface being cleaned.
- head 38 defines a chamber around nozzles 54 and positions the nozzles 54 a predefined distance from the surface being cleaned.
- device 20 is configured to capture any spray of the cleaning fluid within head 38 and is particularly configured to ensure coverage of the surface being cleaned by allowing the spray from the nozzles 54 to have sufficient space, volume, or time to form larger droplets until all the chemical is on the surface being clean.
- the assembly 60 is disposed within the housing 36 and is accessed by the user via the removable cover 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 50 is removed through the actuation of a latch 62.
- the assembly 60 includes a storage container 64, a pump 66 and a power source 68.
- An outlet tube 70 defines a fluid pathway from the container 64 to the pump 66.
- An outlet tube 72 defines a fluid pathway from the pump 66 to the dispensing tube 46. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the dispensing tube 46 and the outlet tube 72 may be a single conduit.
- the storage container 64 is made from a substantially rigid material and includes a removable cover 74.
- the cover 74 allows the container 64 to be easily refilled.
- the container 64 is made from a translucent material to allow the user to view how much cleaning solution remains in the container 64.
- the cover 74 may include a seal that engages a portion of the container 64 to prevent fluid from leaking.
- the opposite end 76 of the container 64 includes a output cap 78 having an opening 80 ( FIG. 10 ) sized to receive a pivot arm 82.
- An optional seal 84 is disposed between the output cap 78 and the container 64 to provide a seal therebetween.
- the pivot arm 82 includes a trunnion 86 that engages a bearing surface in the housing assembly 88 that allows the container 64 to pivot. It should be appreciated that pivoting the container 64 from the operating position (as shown) to a more outward orientation facilitates the insertion and removal of the container 64 from the system 20.
- the output cap 78 further includes a second seal, such as o-ring 90 for example. The o-ring 90 forms a seal between the inner surface of opening 80 and the output cap 78 to prevent fluid from leaking from the container 64.
- the container 64 includes a valve assembly 92 as shown in FIGS 9A - 16 .
- the valve assembly 92 is coupled to the container housing through a tab 94 on the output cap 78.
- the container housing includes a hole on the end 76 that includes a pair of slots (not shown).
- the seal 90 is positioned on the output cap 78 and the tabs 94 interlock with the slots.
- Coupled to the output cap 78 is a valve housing 96.
- the valve housing 96 has a generally cylindrical shape with an opening 98 sized to receive the output cap 78.
- the outer diameter of the output cap 78 is press fit into the opening 98 to secure the output cap 78 to the container housing.
- the disk valve 102 is a normally closed valve that prevents cleaning solution from flowing from the container 64.
- the disk valve 102 automatically opens in response to operation of the pump 66.
- the disk valve 102 includes a flexible member 103 ( FIG. 13 ) having a one or more slits 105.
- the flexible member 103 deflects in response to pressure from the activation of the pump 66. The deflection of the flexible member 103 opens the slits 105 allows fluid from the container 64 to flow into the outlet tube 70 through the pivot arm 82.
- the flow valve 104 includes a conduit 106 that is sized to be received in the end of the valve housing 96.
- the conduit 106 fluidly couples the valve housing 96 to a directional chamber 108 ( FIG. 15 ).
- the directional chamber 108 also has a second inlet 110 that is fluidly coupled to a ball valve chamber 112.
- the ball valve chamber 112 includes a spherical member 114 that freely moves along the length of the ball valve chamber 112 based on the orientation of the valve assembly 92.
- the directional chamber 108 further includes a port 116.
- the port 116 receives and couples to a first tube adapter 118.
- first take-up tube 120 Coupled to an opposite side of the first tube adapter 118 is a first take-up tube 120. Coupled to the opposite end of the first take-up tube 120 is a first filter 122. It should be appreciated that a first fluid path is defined from the interior of the container 64 to the disk valve 102 by the first filter 122, first take-up tube 120, the port 116, the directional chamber 108 and the conduit 106.
- the input tube member 124 includes an input chamber 126 that is selectively fluidly coupled to the ball valve chamber 112 via a passageway 128.
- the passageway 128 is fluidly coupled to a pair of inlets 130 ( FIG. 16 ) arranged on one end of the ball valve chamber 112.
- the inlets 130 have a length that is larger than the diameter of the spherical member 114.
- an additional seal (not shown) may be disposed between input tube member 124 and the housing of ball valve chamber 112.
- a fluid pathway may be formed between the input chamber 126 and the directional chamber 108 based on the position of the spherical member 114.
- the valve assembly 92 When the valve assembly 92 is in a first position (e.g. with the cleaning element vertically above the container 64), the spherical member 114 will move against the second inlet 110 as shown in FIG. 15C to block fluid flow from the ball valve chamber 112 to the directional chamber 108 creating a fluid pathway 123 from the filter 122 to the disk valve 102.
- the valve assembly is in a second position (e.g.
- the spherical member 114 will move to an opposite end of the ball valve chamber as shown in FIG. 15B creating a fluid pathway from the input chamber 126 to the directional chamber 108 via the passageway 128 and inlets 130.
- Coupled to the input tube member 124 is a second take-up tube 132 via a second tube adapter 133. Coupled to an opposite end of the second take-up tube 132 is a second filter 134. It should be appreciated that when the valve assembly 92 is in the second position as shown in FIG. 15B (e.g. the inlets 130 are in fluid communication with the directional chamber 108), a second fluid pathway 135 is defined from the interior of the container 64 to the disk valve 102 by the second filter 134, second take-up tube 132, the input chamber 126, the passageway 128, the inlets 130, the ball valve chamber 112,through inlet 110, the directional chamber 108, and the conduit 106.
- the storage container 64 further includes one or more vents 134 that provide an air pathway from the environment to the interior of container 64.
- the vent 134 includes a slit 135 that is configured in a normally closed position (e.g. no air flow). In response to a pressure within the interior 136, falling below a threshold, a portion of the vent 134 deflects, allowing air flow into the interior 136. It should be appreciated that the vent 134 prevents the generation of low pressures (e.g. below ambient) that could interfere with the operation of the pump 66.
- valve assembly 92 When the valve assembly 92 is disposed within the interior 136 ( FIG. 9B ) of the container 64, with the pivot arm 82 coupled to the container 64, the valve assembly 92 extends along the length of the container 64 with the first filter 122 being disposed adjacent the opening 138 that is enclosed by the cap 74 and the second filter 134 being arranged adjacent the opposite end 76. As will be discussed in more detail herein, the valve assembly 92 is configured to allow the cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly 60 to draw cleaning fluid from the interior 136 with the device 20 positioned in any orientation (e.g. cleaning element 42 on a horizontal surface, a vertical surface, an angled surface, a floor, a wall, or a ceiling).
- any orientation e.g. cleaning element 42 on a horizontal surface, a vertical surface, an angled surface, a floor, a wall, or a ceiling.
- container 64 can be permanently connected via a tube (tether) such that no pivot arm 82 is provided.
- the tube 70 connects directly to the output cap 78 and is sized long enough so that the end user can remove the container from the housing to fill the bottle.
- the user first fills the container 64 with the desired cleaning fluid.
- the container 64 may be filled with the cleaning fluid and coupled to the pivot arm 82, or external to the device 20.
- the user installs the container 64 (if filled externally) by sliding the pivot arm 82 into the opening 80 in output cap 78.
- the seal 90 engages the inner surface of the opening 80 to both seal and secure the output cap 78 to the pivot arm 82.
- the coupling of the container 64 to the pivot arm 82 may be performed with the pivot arm 82 rotated relative to a longitudinal axis of the housing 36 or with the pivot arm 82 in the operating position.
- the pivot arm 82 can be rotated to the operating position ( FIG. 5 ) to position the container 64 within the housing 36, and the cover 50 may be installed to enclose the container 64 within the housing 36.
- the valve assembly 92 When the user positions the device 20 with the cleaning element 46 vertically below pole 22, such as when cleaning a floor or the bottom of a pane of glass from a standing position for example, the valve assembly 92 is oriented with the second filter 134 being vertically lower than the first filter 122. It should be appreciated that when in this position, the spherical member 114 is positioned with the inlets 130 in an "open" configuration to allow a fluid path from the second filter 134 to the disk valve 102. It should further be appreciated that any cleaning fluid in the container 64 will flow towards the end 76 under the influence of gravity. Thus, unless the storage container 64 is substantially filled with cleaning fluid, the first filter 122 will not be in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid, while the second filter 134 will be in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid.
- the cleaning fluid will flow from the interior 136 through the second filter 134, along the second fluid pathway through the disk valve 102 and into the pump, where it is subsequently flowed to the nozzles 54 via the dispensing tube 46.
- the second filter 134 may no longer be in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid since the cleaning fluid will flow to the end of the storage container 64 adjacent the cap 74. It should be appreciated that this orientation may occur when the user is cleaning a higher section of a wall or window, or the ceiling for example.
- the first filter 122 will be in fluid communication with the cleaning solution.
- the spherical member 114 will move against the inlet 110 to seal the directional chamber 108 from the ball valve chamber 112.
- the cleaning fluid will flow into the first filter 122 and along the first fluid pathway to the disk valve 102 and into the pump, where it is subsequently flowed to the nozzles 54 via the dispensing tube 46.
- valve assembly 92 provides advantages in allowing the device 20 to be operated in a variety or orientations while still allowing the flow of cleaning fluid from the storage container and the user can use chemical of their choosing.
Landscapes
- Cleaning By Liquid Or Steam (AREA)
- Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present application is a continuation-in-part application of United States Patent Application Serial No.
16/032,846 filed on July 11, 2018 15/704,993 filed on September 14, 2017 10,070,766 62/394,643 filed on September 14, 2016 62/452,891 filed on January 31, 2017 15/849,797 filed on December 21, 2017 14/983,883 filed on December 30, 2015 9,877,631 Application 62/185,382 filed on June 26, 2015 - The present disclosure is related to cleaning devices. More particularly, the present disclosure is related to cleaning devices that spray cleaning fluids to assist the cleaning of hard surfaces.
- Cleaning devices that allow for the cleaning of hard surfaces such as, but not limited to, window, walls, counters, floors, mirrors, tiles, tables, and others are known. Some prior art cleaning devices are also known to include cleaning fluid spraying systems - that allow the user to spray cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned.
- However, it has been determined by the present disclosure that such prior art cleaning devices are less than optimal.
- Accordingly, there is a need for improved hard surface cleaning devices that improve upon, overcome, alleviate, and/or mitigate the deleterious effects and inefficiencies of prior art devices
- According to one aspect of the disclosure a cleaning device is provided. The cleaning device includes a power source and a pump in selective electrical communication with the power source. A storage container is provided. A valve assembly is disposed in the storage container and in fluid communication with the pump, the valve assembly being configured to selectively flow cleaning fluid from a first portion and a second portion of the storage container. A cleaning element having a spray nozzle is in fluid communication with the pump.
- In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the valve assembly having a first fluid pathway in fluid communication with the first portion and a second fluid pathway in fluid communication with the second portion. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include a first valve fluidly coupled to the first fluid pathway between the first portion and the pump, the first valve being configured to selectively fluidly couple the first portion to the pump based at least in part on the orientation of the device. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the first valve fluidly couples the first portion to the pump when the first portion is vertically lower than the second portion.
- In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the first valve fluidly decoupling the first portion from the pump when the first portion is vertically higher than the second portion. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include a vent member fluidly coupled between an interior portion of the storage container and an ambient environment. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the vent member selectively flowing air into the interior environment in response to activation of the pump.
- In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the storage container including a removable cap, the cap being sealingly coupled to the storage container. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the storage container being removably coupled to the pump. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the storage container being refillable by the end user. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the storage container being made from a substantially rigid material. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include a tube fixedly coupled between the storage container and the pump to define a flow path therebetween.
- According to another aspect of the disclosure a method of cleaning a surface is provided. The method includes providing a storage container, a cleaning head and a pump that are connected to one another. Cleaning fluid is flowed through a first fluid pathway when the storage container is in a first orientation. Cleaning fluid is flowed through a second fluid pathway when the storage container is in a second orientation. Cleaning fluid is flowed from the first fluid pathway or the second fluid pathway to the cleaning head.
- In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include the storage container being in a first orientation when the cleaning fluid flows through the first fluid pathway and is in a second orientation when the cleaning fluid flows through the second fluid pathway, the first orientation being different than the second orientation.
- In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include closing a valve in the first fluid pathway when the storage container is in the second orientation. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include refilling the storage container with cleaning fluid. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include fluidly decoupling the storage container from the pump before refilling the storage container.
- According to yet another aspect of the disclosure a cleaning device is provided. The device including a power source and a pump in selective electrical communication with the power source. A storage container is in fluid communication with the pump. A cleaning head having a first opening and a spray nozzle is provided, the spray nozzle being in fluid communication with the pump, the spray nozzle being disposed to direct cleaning fluid through the opening. An adapter member is removably coupled to the cleaning head. A cleaning element is removably coupled to the adapter member.
- In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the adapter member having a hook and loop fastener, the cleaning element being removably coupled to the adapter member via the hook and loop member. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the cleaning element being a disposable cleaning element.
- These and other advantages and features will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawings.
- The subject matter, which is regarded as the disclosure, is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other features, and advantages of the disclosure are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaning device according to an embodiment; -
FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the cleaning device ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of a portion of the cleaning device ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a partially disassembled view of the cleaning device ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of the cleaning device ofFIG. 1 with a cover removed, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 6 is an enlarge perspective view of the cleaning device ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of a cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly for the cleaning device ofFIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 8 is a side view of the cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 9A is a perspective view, partially in section of the cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 9B is a perspective view, partially in section of the cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cleaning fluid storage container for use in the assembly ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a storage container valve assembly for use with the cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 12 is a disassembled view of the storage container valve assembly ofFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 13 is an end view of the storage container valve assembly ofFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 14 is a side view of the storage container valve assembly ofFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 15A is a sectional view of the storage container valve assembly ofFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 15B is a sectional view of the storage container oriented in a position (cleaning element vertically lower) where the cap of the storage container is vertically higher than the output cap; -
FIG. 15C is a sectional view of the storage container oriented in a position (cleaning element vertically higher) where the cap of the storage container is vertically lower than the output cap; -
FIG. 16 is another sectional view of the storage container valve assembly ofFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a vent device for use with the storage container ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 18 is a top view of the vent device ofFIG. 17 ; and -
FIG. 19 andFIG. 20 are perspective views of a cleaning device with an adapter plate in accordance with an embodiment. - The detailed description explains embodiments of the disclosure, together with advantages and features, by way of example with reference to the drawings.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for a cleaning device that can be operated in multiple orientations, including on a floor, a window, a wall, and/or the ceiling. In one or more embodiments provided herein, the cleaning device includes a substantially rigid cleaning fluid container. In one or more embodiments, the substantially rigid cleaning fluid container is refillable. In one or more embodiments, the substantially rigid cleaning fluid container is translucent, allowing the user to see how much cleaning fluid remains.
- Referring now to
FIGS. 1-4 , an embodiment of acleaning device 20 is shown that may be used for cleaning surfaces, such as but not limited to floors, tabletops, counters, windows, walls and ceilings for example. Thedevice 20 includes a handle orpole 22. Thepole 22 has ahandle end 24, which can include one ormore actuators 26 and/or pole connectors 28. In some embodiments, there may be one or more additional actuators (not shown) on thedevice 20, such as on ahousing 36 for example. Thepole 22 may be extendable in a similar manner to that described in commonly-owned United States Patent Application Serial No.16/032,846 pole 22 is coupled to adispensing section 30. In an embodiment, thepole 22 includes alock member 32 and the dispensingsection 30 includes a lockingopening 34. The engagement of thelock member 32 in thelocking opening 34 secures thepole 22 to thedispensing section 30. - The dispensing
section 30 includes thehousing 36. As will be discussed in more detail herein, thehousing 36 contains a cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly. In an embodiment, the cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly is operably coupled to theactuator 26 and any other actuators on thedevice 20 for causing the cleaning fluid storage and dispensing assembly to dispense cleaning fluid during operation. The dispensingsection 30 is connected to a cleaninghead 38 by aconnector 40. Theconnector 40 may be any suitable hinged attachment that allows thehead 38 to rotate about a single or two orthogonal axis during operation. A cleaningelement 42 couples to thehead 38. Theelement 42 may connect with thehead 38 viastraps 44, or by other suitable means, such as a hook and loop fastener for example. The cleaningelement 42 may be a cleaning pad made from a suitable material, such as but not limited to microfiber, cotton, wool, non-woven fibers, or any combination thereof. The cleaningelement 42 may further include other elements, such as but not limited to brush bristles, a squeegee, a scraper, or any other cleaning element or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, an adapter plate 41 (FIG. 19 ) may be provided that allows the user to switch between acleaning element 42A that uses straps 44 and acleaning element 42 that uses hook andloop fasteners 43. In an embodiment, theadapter plate 41 includestabs 45 that couple with the cleaninghead 38, such as by engaging around the edge of the cleaninghead 38 with one or more snapfits. Theadapter plate 41 also includes anopening 47 that allows cleaning fluid from the nozzles to be directed therethrough. In some embodiments, thecleaning element 42A is a disposable cleaning element that is intended to be discarded. In other embodiments, the cleaningelement - The dispensing
section 30 is further fluidly coupled to thehead 38 by a conduit or dispensingtube 46 that exits anoutlet 48 belowremovable cover 50 in thehousing 36. As will be discussed in more detail herein, thetube 46 couples with a pump and provides a fluid pathway for transferring cleaning fluid to thehead 38. Thetube 46 connects with aspray nozzle 54 via aninlet 52. In the illustrated embodiment, thehead 38 and thecleaning element 42 each include acentral opening nozzle 54 is recessed with respect to the bottom surface of thehead 38, which offsets the nozzle from the cleaning surface to facility distribution of the cleaning fluid and prevent the nozzles from being damaged during use. - Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that device 10 - by capturing the spray of the cleaning fluid between
head 38 and the surface being cleaned - prevents airborne cleaning fluid from being present in the air near the user's mouth and nose, particularly as the device is held at or above head level while cleaning windows, mirrors, and the like. In the example wheredevice 20 is used in window cleaning, the cleaning fluid often includes chemicals with a viscosity low enough to be formed into a mist - namely atomized or formed into an aerosol - by the spraying throughnozzles 54. When prior art window cleaning devices are used to clean items at or above the user's mouth and nose, the atomized cleaning fluid can disadvantageously pass through the breathing space - an outcome thatdevice 20 reduces by constraining the spray of the cleaning fluid betweenhead 38 and the surface being cleaned. - As discussed herein, the
device 20 is configured to pump cleaning fluid fromcontainer 60 to one or more spray nozzles 54 (one shown) directly onto the surface being cleaned. Here,central opening 56 that is in alignment or registration with anopening 58 in the cleaningmember adapter plate 41 in some embodiments) so thatspray nozzles 54 spray the cleaning fluid through the openings onto the surface being cleaned. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory,head 38 defines a chamber aroundnozzles 54 and positions the nozzles 54 a predefined distance from the surface being cleaned. In an embodiment,device 20 is configured to capture any spray of the cleaning fluid withinhead 38 and is particularly configured to ensure coverage of the surface being cleaned by allowing the spray from thenozzles 54 to have sufficient space, volume, or time to form larger droplets until all the chemical is on the surface being clean. - It has been determined by the present disclosure that, in some embodiments, there is a relationship between the height of
nozzle 54 from the surface being cleaned (measured to the surface of the pad) and the volume of the chamber, examples of which are illustrated in Table 1.TABLE 1 COMPARISON OF NOZZLE HEIGHT AND CHAMBER VOLUME Example No. Approx Nozzle height from Pad surface (mm) Approx chamber volume around nozzle (cc) 1 3.75 37 2 7 10 3 25 10 - Referring now to
FIGS. 5 - 9B , an embodiment is shown of the cleaning fluid storage and dispensingassembly 60. Theassembly 60 is disposed within thehousing 36 and is accessed by the user via theremovable cover 50. In the illustrated embodiment, thecover 50 is removed through the actuation of alatch 62. Theassembly 60 includes astorage container 64, apump 66 and apower source 68. Anoutlet tube 70 defines a fluid pathway from thecontainer 64 to thepump 66. Anoutlet tube 72 defines a fluid pathway from thepump 66 to the dispensingtube 46. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the dispensingtube 46 and theoutlet tube 72 may be a single conduit. Thestorage container 64 is made from a substantially rigid material and includes aremovable cover 74. It should be appreciated that thecover 74 allows thecontainer 64 to be easily refilled. In an embodiment, thecontainer 64 is made from a translucent material to allow the user to view how much cleaning solution remains in thecontainer 64. Thecover 74 may include a seal that engages a portion of thecontainer 64 to prevent fluid from leaking. - The
opposite end 76 of thecontainer 64 includes aoutput cap 78 having an opening 80 (FIG. 10 ) sized to receive apivot arm 82. Anoptional seal 84 is disposed between theoutput cap 78 and thecontainer 64 to provide a seal therebetween. In an embodiment, thepivot arm 82 includes atrunnion 86 that engages a bearing surface in thehousing assembly 88 that allows thecontainer 64 to pivot. It should be appreciated that pivoting thecontainer 64 from the operating position (as shown) to a more outward orientation facilitates the insertion and removal of thecontainer 64 from thesystem 20. In the illustrated embodiment, theoutput cap 78 further includes a second seal, such as o-ring 90 for example. The o-ring 90 forms a seal between the inner surface of opening 80 and theoutput cap 78 to prevent fluid from leaking from thecontainer 64. - The
container 64 includes avalve assembly 92 as shown inFIGS 9A - 16 . Thevalve assembly 92 is coupled to the container housing through atab 94 on theoutput cap 78. In an embodiment, the container housing includes a hole on theend 76 that includes a pair of slots (not shown). To couple thepivot arm 82 to thestorage container 64, theseal 90 is positioned on theoutput cap 78 and thetabs 94 interlock with the slots. Coupled to theoutput cap 78 is avalve housing 96. Thevalve housing 96 has a generally cylindrical shape with anopening 98 sized to receive theoutput cap 78. In an embodiment, the outer diameter of theoutput cap 78 is press fit into theopening 98 to secure theoutput cap 78 to the container housing. The compression of theoutput cap 78 forms a seal with the container 64.Also disposed within theopening 98 is adisk valve 102 held in place by alocking ring 100. As will be discussed in more detail herein, thedisk valve 102 is a normally closed valve that prevents cleaning solution from flowing from thecontainer 64. Thedisk valve 102 automatically opens in response to operation of thepump 66. In an embodiment, thedisk valve 102 includes a flexible member 103 (FIG. 13 ) having a one ormore slits 105. Theflexible member 103 deflects in response to pressure from the activation of thepump 66. The deflection of theflexible member 103 opens theslits 105 allows fluid from thecontainer 64 to flow into theoutlet tube 70 through thepivot arm 82. - Coupled to the
valve housing 96 is adirectional flow valve 104. Theflow valve 104 includes aconduit 106 that is sized to be received in the end of thevalve housing 96. Theconduit 106 fluidly couples thevalve housing 96 to a directional chamber 108 (FIG. 15 ). Thedirectional chamber 108 also has asecond inlet 110 that is fluidly coupled to aball valve chamber 112. Theball valve chamber 112 includes aspherical member 114 that freely moves along the length of theball valve chamber 112 based on the orientation of thevalve assembly 92. Thedirectional chamber 108 further includes aport 116. Theport 116 receives and couples to afirst tube adapter 118. Coupled to an opposite side of thefirst tube adapter 118 is a first take-uptube 120. Coupled to the opposite end of the first take-uptube 120 is afirst filter 122. It should be appreciated that a first fluid path is defined from the interior of thecontainer 64 to thedisk valve 102 by thefirst filter 122, first take-uptube 120, theport 116, thedirectional chamber 108 and theconduit 106. - Fluidly coupled to the
ball valve chamber 112 is aninput tube member 124. Theinput tube member 124 includes aninput chamber 126 that is selectively fluidly coupled to theball valve chamber 112 via apassageway 128. In an embodiment, thepassageway 128 is fluidly coupled to a pair of inlets 130 (FIG. 16 ) arranged on one end of theball valve chamber 112. Theinlets 130 have a length that is larger than the diameter of thespherical member 114. In some embodiments, an additional seal (not shown) may be disposed betweeninput tube member 124 and the housing ofball valve chamber 112. It should be appreciated that as thespherical member 114 moves within theball valve chamber 112, a fluid pathway may be formed between theinput chamber 126 and thedirectional chamber 108 based on the position of thespherical member 114. When thevalve assembly 92 is in a first position (e.g. with the cleaning element vertically above the container 64), thespherical member 114 will move against thesecond inlet 110 as shown inFIG. 15C to block fluid flow from theball valve chamber 112 to thedirectional chamber 108 creating afluid pathway 123 from thefilter 122 to thedisk valve 102. With the valve assembly is in a second position (e.g. with the cleaning element vertically below the container 64), thespherical member 114 will move to an opposite end of the ball valve chamber as shown inFIG. 15B creating a fluid pathway from theinput chamber 126 to thedirectional chamber 108 via thepassageway 128 andinlets 130. - Coupled to the
input tube member 124 is a second take-uptube 132 via asecond tube adapter 133. Coupled to an opposite end of the second take-uptube 132 is asecond filter 134. It should be appreciated that when thevalve assembly 92 is in the second position as shown inFIG. 15B (e.g. theinlets 130 are in fluid communication with the directional chamber 108), a secondfluid pathway 135 is defined from the interior of thecontainer 64 to thedisk valve 102 by thesecond filter 134, second take-uptube 132, theinput chamber 126, thepassageway 128, theinlets 130, theball valve chamber 112,throughinlet 110, thedirectional chamber 108, and theconduit 106. - It should be appreciated that when the
storage container 64 is in the orientation similar toFIG. 15B where thefilter 134 is lower than thefilter 122, a fluid pathway exists between thefilter 122 and thedirectional chamber 108. Without being constrained or bound by any theory, it is believed that the constant presence of liquid in the valve when drawing cleaning fluid fromfilter 134 is sufficient enough that it continues to draw cleaning fluid fromfilter 134 instead of air fromfilter 122. It should further be appreciated that when thestorage container 64 is substantially or completely full, such that thefilter 122 is at least partially in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid, then cleaning fluid may be drawn through either or both offilter 122 and filter 134 when the storage container is oriented with thefilter 134 lower than thefilter 122. - In one embodiment, shown in
FIG. 10 andFIGS. 17-18 , thestorage container 64 further includes one ormore vents 134 that provide an air pathway from the environment to the interior ofcontainer 64. It should be appreciated that while the illustrated embodiment shows asingle vent 134, this is for exemplary purposes and in other embodiments a plurality of vents positioned at different locations on thecontainer 54 may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, thevent 134 includes aslit 135 that is configured in a normally closed position (e.g. no air flow). In response to a pressure within the interior 136, falling below a threshold, a portion of thevent 134 deflects, allowing air flow into the interior 136. It should be appreciated that thevent 134 prevents the generation of low pressures (e.g. below ambient) that could interfere with the operation of thepump 66. - When the
valve assembly 92 is disposed within the interior 136 (FIG. 9B ) of thecontainer 64, with thepivot arm 82 coupled to thecontainer 64, thevalve assembly 92 extends along the length of thecontainer 64 with thefirst filter 122 being disposed adjacent theopening 138 that is enclosed by thecap 74 and thesecond filter 134 being arranged adjacent theopposite end 76. As will be discussed in more detail herein, thevalve assembly 92 is configured to allow the cleaning fluid storage and dispensingassembly 60 to draw cleaning fluid from the interior 136 with thedevice 20 positioned in any orientation (e.g. cleaning element 42 on a horizontal surface, a vertical surface, an angled surface, a floor, a wall, or a ceiling). - In
other embodiments container 64 can be permanently connected via a tube (tether) such that nopivot arm 82 is provided. In this embodiment, thetube 70 connects directly to theoutput cap 78 and is sized long enough so that the end user can remove the container from the housing to fill the bottle. - In operation, the user first fills the
container 64 with the desired cleaning fluid. It should be appreciated that thecontainer 64 may be filled with the cleaning fluid and coupled to thepivot arm 82, or external to thedevice 20. Once thecap 74 is placed on, the user installs the container 64 (if filled externally) by sliding thepivot arm 82 into theopening 80 inoutput cap 78. Theseal 90 engages the inner surface of theopening 80 to both seal and secure theoutput cap 78 to thepivot arm 82. It should be appreciated that the coupling of thecontainer 64 to thepivot arm 82 may be performed with thepivot arm 82 rotated relative to a longitudinal axis of thehousing 36 or with thepivot arm 82 in the operating position. Once thecontainer 64 is installed, thepivot arm 82 can be rotated to the operating position (FIG. 5 ) to position thecontainer 64 within thehousing 36, and thecover 50 may be installed to enclose thecontainer 64 within thehousing 36. - When the user positions the
device 20 with the cleaningelement 46 vertically belowpole 22, such as when cleaning a floor or the bottom of a pane of glass from a standing position for example, thevalve assembly 92 is oriented with thesecond filter 134 being vertically lower than thefirst filter 122. It should be appreciated that when in this position, thespherical member 114 is positioned with theinlets 130 in an "open" configuration to allow a fluid path from thesecond filter 134 to thedisk valve 102. It should further be appreciated that any cleaning fluid in thecontainer 64 will flow towards theend 76 under the influence of gravity. Thus, unless thestorage container 64 is substantially filled with cleaning fluid, thefirst filter 122 will not be in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid, while thesecond filter 134 will be in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid. As such, when thepump 66 is operated, the cleaning fluid will flow from the interior 136 through thesecond filter 134, along the second fluid pathway through thedisk valve 102 and into the pump, where it is subsequently flowed to thenozzles 54 via the dispensingtube 46. - Conversely, when the
device 20 is reoriented such that theend 76 is vertically higher than thecap 74, thesecond filter 134 may no longer be in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid since the cleaning fluid will flow to the end of thestorage container 64 adjacent thecap 74. It should be appreciated that this orientation may occur when the user is cleaning a higher section of a wall or window, or the ceiling for example. When in this position, thefirst filter 122 will be in fluid communication with the cleaning solution. Further, when theend 76 is vertically higher than thecap 74, thespherical member 114 will move against theinlet 110 to seal thedirectional chamber 108 from theball valve chamber 112. As a result, when thepump 66 is activated, instead of pulling air from theend 76 of thestorage container 64, the cleaning fluid will flow into thefirst filter 122 and along the first fluid pathway to thedisk valve 102 and into the pump, where it is subsequently flowed to thenozzles 54 via the dispensingtube 46. - It should be appreciated that the
valve assembly 92 provides advantages in allowing thedevice 20 to be operated in a variety or orientations while still allowing the flow of cleaning fluid from the storage container and the user can use chemical of their choosing. - It should also be noted that the terms "first", "second", "third", "upper", "lower", and the like may be used herein to modify various elements. These modifiers do not imply a spatial, sequential, or hierarchical order to the modified elements unless specifically stated. The term "about" is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application.
- The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and/or groups thereof.
- While the disclosure is provided in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the disclosure is not limited to such disclosed embodiments. Rather, the disclosure can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Additionally, while various embodiments of the disclosure have been described, it is to be understood that the exemplary embodiment(s) may include only some of the described exemplary aspects. Accordingly, the disclosure is not to be seen as limited by the foregoing description, but is only limited by the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (20)
- A cleaning device comprising:a power source;a pump in selective electrical communication with the power source;a storage container;a valve assembly disposed in the storage container and in fluid communication with the pump, the valve assembly being configured to selectively flow cleaning fluid from a first portion and a second portion of the storage container; anda cleaning element having a spray nozzle in fluid communication with the pump.
- The device of claim 1, wherein the valve assembly includes a first fluid pathway in fluid communication with the first portion and a second fluid pathway in fluid communication with the second portion.
- The device of claim 2, further comprising a first valve fluidly coupled to the first fluid pathway between the first portion and the pump, the first valve being configured to selectively fluidly couple the first portion to the pump based at least in part on the orientation of the device.
- The device of claim 3, wherein the first valve fluidly couples the first portion to the pump when the first portion is vertically lower than the second portion.
- The device of claim 4, wherein the first valve fluidly decouples the first portion from the pump when the first portion is vertically higher than the second portion.
- The device of claim 1, further comprising a vent member fluidly coupled between an interior portion of the storage container and an ambient environment.
- The device of claim 6, wherein the vent member selectively flows air into the interior environment in response to activation of the pump.
- The device of claim 1, wherein the storage container includes a removable cap, the cap being sealingly coupled to the storage container.
- The device of claim 1, wherein the storage container is removably coupled to the pump.
- The device of claim 1, wherein the storage container is refillable by the end user.
- The device of claim 1, wherein the storage container is made from a substantially rigid material.
- The device of claim 1, further comprising a tube fixedly coupled between the storage container and the pump to define a flow path therebetween.
- A method of cleaning a surface, the method comprising:providing a storage container, a cleaning head and a pump that are connected to one another;flowing cleaning fluid through a first fluid pathway when the storage container is in a first orientation;flowing cleaning fluid through a second fluid pathway when the storage container is in a second orientation; andflow cleaning fluid from the first fluid pathway or the second fluid pathway to the cleaning head.
- The method of claim 13, wherein the storage container is in a first orientation when the cleaning fluid flows through the first fluid pathway and is in a second orientation when the cleaning fluid flows through the second fluid pathway, the first orientation being different than the second orientation.
- The method of claim 14, further comprising closing a valve in the first fluid pathway when the storage container is in the second orientation.
- The method of claim 13, further comprising refilling the storage container with cleaning fluid.
- The method of claim 16, further comprising fluidly decoupling the storage container from the pump before refilling the storage container.
- A cleaning device comprising:a power source;a pump in selective electrical communication with the power source;a storage container in fluid communication with the pump;a cleaning head having a first opening and a spray nozzle, the spray nozzle being in fluid communication with the pump, the spray nozzle being disposed to direct cleaning fluid through the opening;an adapter member removably coupled to the cleaning head; anda cleaning element removably coupled to the adapter member.
- The method of claim 18, wherein the adapter member includes a hook and loop fastener, the cleaning element being removably coupled to the adapter member via the hook and loop member.
- The method of claim 19, wherein the cleaning element is a disposable cleaning element.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US16/251,769 US10973387B2 (en) | 2015-06-26 | 2019-01-18 | Multi-orientation cleaning device |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP3725207A2 true EP3725207A2 (en) | 2020-10-21 |
EP3725207A3 EP3725207A3 (en) | 2020-12-02 |
EP3725207B1 EP3725207B1 (en) | 2024-04-10 |
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EP20151451.0A Active EP3725207B1 (en) | 2019-01-18 | 2020-01-13 | A multi-orientation cleaning device |
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Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN115555361A (en) * | 2022-11-17 | 2023-01-03 | 长沙中联重科环境产业有限公司 | Intelligent cleaning mechanism for outer wall of garbage can and control method thereof |
Family Cites Families (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20030089383A1 (en) * | 2001-11-13 | 2003-05-15 | Biggs Blyth S. | Egronomic sprayer mop and method |
US8370991B2 (en) * | 2010-09-01 | 2013-02-12 | Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited | Supply tank assembly for an extractor cleaning machine |
US20140041147A1 (en) * | 2012-08-10 | 2014-02-13 | Chad Pagoria | Surface cleaner including forward-facing liquid tanks |
-
2020
- 2020-01-13 EP EP20151451.0A patent/EP3725207B1/en active Active
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN115555361A (en) * | 2022-11-17 | 2023-01-03 | 长沙中联重科环境产业有限公司 | Intelligent cleaning mechanism for outer wall of garbage can and control method thereof |
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EP3725207A3 (en) | 2020-12-02 |
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