GB2537605A

GB2537605A - Cleaning apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2537605A
Application number: GB1506410.8A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Grove Philip; Phungula Lindani; Barrett Edward
Original assignee: Techtronic Industries Co Ltd
Current assignee: Techtronic Industries Co Ltd
Priority date: 2015-04-15
Filing date: 2015-04-15
Publication date: 2016-10-26
Also published as: GB201506410D0

Abstract

A suction attachment 14 for a cleaning device 10, the cleaning device 10 being suitable for wet-cleaning a flat surface, comprises a handle 16 graspable by a user for manoeuvring the cleaning device 10 and a cleaning head 18 having a cleaning outlet (60, fig 3) for applying a cleaning fluid to the surface. The suction attachment 14 includes a skirt (64, fig 4) adapted to surround at least partially the cleaning outlet (60, fig 3) and is configured for securement to the cleaning head 16, an outlet mouth (66, fig 4) defined by the skirt (64, fig 4), a waste outlet passage (46, fig 3) for channelling fluid away from the outlet mouth (66, fig 4), a venturi (52, fig 3) disposed within the waste outlet passage (46, fig 3) and a pressurised fluid outlet (70, fig 5) at least partially disposed within the waste outlet passage (46, fig 3) at a position between the outlet mouth (66, fig 4) and the venture (52, fig 3), configured for outputting a pressurised fluid in a direction generally towards the venturi (52, fig 3) so as to generate suction at the outlet mouth (66, fig 4). A cleaning apparatus having the same venturi arrangement is also claimed. The attachment allows a device such as a pressure washer to collect spent cleaning fluid using suction.

Description

Ref: A13719GB Title: Cleaning apparatus

Description of Invention

This invention relates to a suction attachment for a cleaning device of the type being suitable for wet-cleaning a flat surface. In particular, but not exclusively, the invention relates to suction attachments for converting a pressure washer device to provide suction, so as to draw spent fluid away from the surface being cleaned.

Pressure washers for cleaning flat surfaces are well known. Such washers typically include a hose or the like for connection to a source of pressurised fluid (e.g. such as water), and a cleaning head providing jet nozzles that direct the pressurised water onto the surface to be washed. Commonly, the jet nozzles are provided on a rotating arm, and angled so that the arm is caused to rotate as the pressurised fluid is forced through the nozzles.

A problem associated with washing a surface with pressurised fluid is that a large quantity of fluid may be used during cleaning. The liquid remains on the surface, during and after cleaning has taken place. The surface may be left to dry naturally, but in most circumstances this is impractical, so the surplus fluid must be mopped up.

It is known to provide washing devices that incorporate suction apparatus to remove a portion of the fluid used during cleaning. Such devices typically include a waste outlet pipe that leads away from the cleaning head of the device, to channel water away from the surface. These outlet pipes are located rearmost of the cleaning head, so that excess fluid on the surface is channelled into the outlet pipe, under suction, as the device moves forwards across the surface being cleaned. A problem associated with known cleaners of this sort is that the waste outlet pipes, being centrally positioned, can be obstructive to a user handling the device.

In addition, cleaners that provide both pressure-washing and suction capabilities employ cleaning heads specifically configured for those purposes.

Converting an existing vacuum cleaner, to perform additionally as a pressure-washer, would be by no means straightforward, and significant modification and engineering to the cleaning head would be required to arrive at such a dual-function device.

The present invention seeks to ameliorate one or more problems associated with the prior art.

According to an aspect of the invention, we provide a suction attachment for a cleaning device, the cleaning device being suitable for wet-cleaning a flat surface and including: a handle graspable by a user for manoeuvring the cleaning device; and a cleaning head having a cleaning outlet for applying a cleaning fluid to the surface; and the suction attachment including: a skirt adapted to surround at least partially the cleaning outlet, and is configured for securement to the cleaning head; an outlet mouth defined by the skirt; a waste outlet passage for channelling fluid away from the outlet mouth; a venturi disposed within the waste outlet passage and a pressurised fluid outlet at least partially disposed within the waste outlet passage at a position between the outlet mouth and the venturi, configured for outputting a pressurised fluid in a direction generally towards the venturi so as to generate suction at the outlet mouth.

The pressurised fluid outlet may comprise a fluid spray nozzle.

The cleaning device may be of a type providing a pressurised fluid source configured to provide pressurised fluid to the cleaning outlet via a first fluid supply passage, and the suction attachment may further include a branching member for insertion at a position on the first fluid supply passage so as to channel a portion of the pressurised fluid supplied via the first fluid supply passage to the pressurised fluid outlet, via a second fluid supply passage.

At least a portion of the first fluid supply passage may be formed within the 10 handle, and the branching member may be configured to be secured between the handle and the cleaning head.

The handle may include at least a first and a second handle portion, and at least a portion of the first fluid supply passage may be formed within each of the first and second handle portions. In that case, the branching member may be configured to be secured between the first and second handle portions.

The first and second portions of the handle may provide respective securing portions for securement to one another, and the branching member may provide corresponding third and fourth securing portions for securement to the first and second securing portions, respectively.

The second fluid supply passage may be a flexible hose.

The skirt may provide a sealing formation configured to lie between the floor head and the surface being cleaned so as to seal at least partially a cleaning volume defined between the floor head and the surface being cleaned and surrounding the cleaning outlet.

The sealing formation may form a wall substantially surrounding the cleaning outlet, and defining a wall of the cleaning volume.

The sealing formation may include a brush strip formed of bristles. The sealing formation may include a strip formed of at least one of rubber, foam, or a plastics material.

The outlet mouth may be provided by a gap in the sealing formation.

An outlet channel may be formed between the outlet mouth and the waste outlet passage, and a wall of the outlet channel may be provided by a portion of the sealing formation.

The outlet channel may be disposed substantially tangentially to the cleaning volume.

The outlet channel may be configured so as to be disposed either to the left hand or the right hand side of the cleaning device when the suction attachment is secured to the cleaning device, relative to the forward direction of use, so that the waste outlet passage which is connected to the outlet channel is also disposed to either the left hand or right hand side of the cleaning device, respectively.

The cleaning head may provide a plurality of cleaning outlets.

The cleaning head may provide a jet nozzle forming the or each cleaning outlet, configured to direct at least a portion of the cleaning fluid leaving the or each cleaning outlet towards the surface to be cleaned. The jet nozzle may be formed on an arm configured to rotate about an axis. The arm may provide multiple jet nozzles each providing a respective cleaning outlet.

The jet nozzles may be configured to direct at least a portion of the cleaning fluid leaving the outlet substantially tangentially to the rotation of the arm. The jet nozzles may be orientated so that cleaning fluid leaving the outlet is directed substantially tangentially in the same rotational direction as the tangential outlet channel.

The suction attachment may further include a plurality of wheels.

The waste outlet passage may be fluidly connected to a passage provided within the handle so that fluid flowing through the waste outlet passage passes through the handle.

The suction attachment may further comprise one or more attachment parts for attaching a portion of the waste outlet passage to a portion of the handle.

At least a portion of the waste outlet passage may be inclined upwardly in the direction away from the outlet mouth, wherein the venturi may be disposed in the inclined portion of the waste outlet passage.

The suction attachment may include: a plurality of outlet mouths defined by the skirt, associated with each outlet mouth, a respective waste outlet passage for channelling fluid away from the outlet mouth; a respective venturi disposed within the waste outlet passage and a respective pressurised fluid outlet at least partially disposed within the waste outlet passage at a position between the outlet mouth and the venturi, configured for outputting a pressurised fluid in a direction generally towards the venturi so as to generate suction at the outlet mouth.

According to another embodiment of the invention, we provide a cleaning device for wet-cleaning a flat surface, including: a handle graspable by a user for manoeuvring the cleaner; a cleaning head having a cleaning outlet for applying a cleaning fluid to the surface, a skirt adapted to surround at least partially the cleaning outlet; an outlet mouth defined by the skirt; a waste outlet passage for channelling fluid away from the outlet mouth; a venturi disposed within the waste outlet passage and a pressurised fluid outlet at least partially disposed within the waste outlet passage at a position between the outlet mouth and the venturi, configured for outputting a pressurised fluid in a direction generally towards the venturi so as to generate suction at the outlet mouth.

The pressurised fluid outlet may comprise a fluid spray nozzle.

The device may further include: an inlet for receiving pressurised fluid from a pressurised fluid source, configured to provide pressurised fluid to the cleaning outlet via a first fluid supply passage, and a branching member at a position on the first fluid supply passage so as to channel a portion of the pressurised fluid supplied via the first fluid supply passage to the pressurised fluid outlet, via a second fluid supply passage.

At least a portion of the first fluid supply passage may be formed within the handle, and the branching member may be secured between the handle and the cleaning head.

The handle may include at least a first and a second handle portion, and at least a portion of the first fluid supply passage may be formed within each of the first and second handle portions, and the branching member may be secured between the first and second handle portions.

The second fluid supply passage may be a flexible hose.

The skirt may provide a sealing formation configured to lie between the floor head and the surface being cleaned so as to seal at least partially a cleaning 10 volume defined between the floor head and the surface being cleaned and surrounding the cleaning outlet.

The sealing formation may include a brush strip formed of bristles.

The sealing formation may include a strip formed of at least one of rubber, foam, or a plastics material.

The outlet mouth may be provided by a gap in the sealing formation.

An outlet channel may be formed between the outlet mouth and the waste outlet passage, a wall of the outlet channel being provided by a portion of the sealing formation.

The cleaning head may provide a plurality of cleaning outlets.

The cleaning head may provide a jet nozzle forming the or each cleaning outlet, configured to direct at least a portion of the cleaning fluid leaving the or each cleaning outlet towards the surface to be cleaned.

The jet nozzle may be formed on an arm configured to rotate about an axis.

The arm may provide multiple jet nozzles each providing a respective cleaning outlet.

The jet nozzles may be configured to direct at least a portion of the cleaning fluid leaving the outlet substantially tangentially to the rotation of the arm.

The jet nozzles may be orientated so that cleaning fluid leaving the outlet is directed substantially tangentially in the same rotational direction as the tangential outlet channel.

The cleaning device may further include a plurality of wheels.

The cleaning device may further comprise one or more attachment parts for attaching a portion of the waste outlet passage to a portion of the handle.

At least a portion of the waste outlet passage may be inclined upwardly in the direction away from the outlet mouth, wherein the venturi is disposed in the inclined portion of the waste outlet passage.

The cleaning device may include: a plurality of outlet mouths defined by the skirt, associated with each outlet mouth; a respective waste outlet passage for channelling fluid away from the outlet mouth; a respective venturi disposed within the waste outlet passage and a respective pressurised fluid outlet at least partially disposed within the waste outlet passage at a position between the outlet mouth and the venturi, configured for outputting a pressurised fluid in a direction generally towards the venturi so as to generate suction at the outlet mouth.

Embodiments of the invention are described herein, by way of example only, with reference to the following figures, in which Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cleaning device and suction attachment according to embodiments of the present invention; Figure 2 is a plan view of a portion of a cleaning device and suction attachment according to embodiments; Figure 3 is a view of the underside of the portion shown in Figure 2; Figure 4 is a plan view of a portion of a suction attachment according to 25 embodiments; and Figure 5 is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of a waste outlet passage, venturi and pressurised fluid outlet, according to embodiments of the invention.

We now describe a combined pressure washer and suction cleaner 10. The cleaner 10 may be formed as a standalone cleaning device, incorporating the features described herein, or may be formed as a separate pressure washing device 12 and a suction attachment 14 for converting the pressure washing device 12 into a combined pressure washer and suction cleaner. The suction attachment 14 could be provided as a separate entity, for retro-fitting to an existing pressure-washer, for example.

With reference to the figures, Figure 1 shows a cleaning device 12 suitable for wet-cleaning a flat surface. The cleaning device 12 includes a handle 16 graspable by a user for manoeuvring the cleaning device 12, and a cleaning head 18 having a cleaning outlet 60 for applying a cleaning fluid to the surface.

The cleaning fluid may be water, for example. Optionally, the handle 16 may be pivotable relative to the cleaning head 18 about a pivot connection 21. The cleaning fluid may contain a detergent, or may contain any other form of treatment fluid for application to a surface to improve or change the appearance or coating of the surface, for example. In embodiments, the cleaning device 12 provides a plurality of cleaning outlets 60.

In embodiments, and as shown in Figure 1, the cleaning head provides a cover 24 for housing the cleaning components of the cleaning head 18. Since the cleaning head 18 typically includes high-pressure fluid sprays, it is preferable to shield a user from the spray of fluid leaving the device, and to limit spray formed when the fluid contacts the surface being cleaned. To that end, the cover 24 is generally formed as a shell, open towards the surface being cleaned, and providing an upper surface and an outer wall to block fluid travelling in directions other than downwards from the cleaning head 18. The cleaning head 18 may provide an integral handle 34 to allow a user easily to manoeuvre the device 12, particularly for storing the device when not in use.

In Figures 1, 2 and 3, the cleaning device 12 is shown in combination with a suction attachment 14. The suction attachment 14 includes a skirt 64 which is adapted to surround at least partially the cleaning outlet 60 (or each cleaning outlet 60, or at least one of the cleaning outlets 60), and is configured for securement to the cleaning head 18. An outlet mouth 66 is defined by the skirt 64. In other words, the skirt 64 is disposed around the cleaning head 18, and in particular around the cleaning outlet(s) 60, wherein a break in the skirt 64 (or an aperture defined by the skirt 64) provides an outlet mouth 66 through which fluid may be drawn. A waste outlet passage 46 is provided, for channelling fluid away from the outlet mouth 66. A venturi is disposed within the waste outlet passage 46. By the term venturi, and with reference to Figure 5, we mean a passage having a narrow portion 74, 76, 78 that has a reduced cross-sectional area compared to adjoining portions 72, 80 at either end of the narrow portion 74, 76, 78. Such a passage is commonly used to generate a suction flow, as is known in the art. By saying that the venturi is disposed within the waste outlet passage 46, we mean that the venturi passage is formed in-line with the waste outlet passage 46 so that the narrow portion of the passage forms part of the waste outlet passage 46.

Fluid drawn out through the outlet mouth 66 and into the waste outlet passage 46 is subsequently channelled through a waste pipe 28 to a waste facility (such as a drain, waste tank, or the like).

A pressurised fluid outlet 70 is at least partially disposed within the waste outlet passage 46 at a position between the outlet mouth 66 and the venturi, configured for outputting a pressurised fluid in a direction generally towards the venturi. In embodiments, and as shown, the pressurised fluid outlet 70 comprises a fluid spray nozzle (commonly referred to as a venturi spray nozzle when used in combination with a venturi). The reduction of pressure, and increased fluid speed, in the narrow portion 74, 76, 78 of the passage (due to the Venturi effect) causes fluid to be drawn through the passage. In this way, suction is generated at the outlet mouth 66. In embodiments, the fluid spray nozzle sprays fluid within a substantially conical field, and in embodiments the angle of the spray can typically be in the range of 15° from the central axis of the nozzle. The fluid spray nozzle may be formed of brass, or another metal, or plastic, or any other suitable material.

In embodiments, the skirt 64 is attached to a body 26 of the suction attachment 14. The body 26 provides connection mechanisms for connecting the suction attachment 14 to the cleaning head 18 of the cleaning device 12. The connection mechanisms may include sockets or apertures for receiving screws, bolts, or the like, or may include clips or tabs for securement to corresponding portions of the cleaning head 18. In this way, the skirt 64 is secured to the cleaning head 18, indirectly, via the body of the suction attachment 14. In embodiments, the body 26 provides an outer wall that lies around the skirt 64 (i.e. to the outside of the skirt 64, on the side facing away from the cleaning outlet(s) 60). In other embodiments, the skirt 64 itself forms the outermost wall of the suction attachment 14.

The body 26 provides a plurality of wheels 36, for supporting and moving the suction attachment 14, and cleaning device 12 when connected, over the surface. The wheels 36 preferably are of a size chosen such that the skirt 64 of the suction attachment 14 lies adjacent the surface. In this way, the 'clearance' gap between the skirt 64 and the surface may be minimal. As such, the skirt 64 provides a sealing formation configured to lie between the floor head 18 and the surface being cleaned so as to seal at least partially a cleaning volume 62 defined between the floor head 18 and the surface being cleaned. Each wheel 36 is connected to a respective wheel-securing portion 42 of the body 26 that provides a swivel-connection between the wheel 36 and the body 26. Since each wheel is capable of swivelling relative to the body 26, the cleaner 10 is easily manoeuvrable over the surface.

In effect, the sealing formation forms a wall substantially surrounding the cleaning outlet(s) 60, and defines a wall of the cleaning volume 62. The cleaning volume 62 surrounds the cleaning outlet(s) 60, so that while the device is operating, fluid is dispensed by the cleaning outlet(s) 60 generally within the cleaning volume 62. The outlet mouth 66 defined by the skirt 64 provides an aperture (i.e. a gap in the sealing formation) through which fluid may be drawn from the cleaning volume 62, to limit the volume of surface fluid.

In embodiments, the sealing formation includes a brush strip formed of bristles. In addition, or instead, the sealing formation includes a strip formed of at least one of rubber, foam, or a plastics material. Ideally the sealing formation should be formed of a material that is flexible, to allow the member to deform slightly in order to pass over small objections on the surface being cleaned, for example. The sealing formation should also be firm, to avoid excessive wear, and to avoid deforming too easily where suction is applied to the cleaning volume 62, for example. In other words, the sealing formation must generally keep its shape during use, in order to provide the walls of the cleaning volume 62, but should be capable of deformation when a sufficient force is applied (as in the case of a user pushing the apparatus over a small object).

In embodiments, the cleaning device 12 is of a type providing a pressurised fluid source configured to provide pressurised fluid to the cleaning outlet(s) 60 via a first fluid supply passage. A separate pump (not shown) may provide fluid to the cleaning device 12, under pressure. Alternatively, the device itself may comprise a pump. Either way, a source of cleaning fluid, typically water, must be connected to the cleaning device 14. In embodiments, and as shown in Figure 1, the device may provide an inlet 22 for cleaning fluid. The inlet may provide a securing formation (such as a screw-threaded portion, for example) for securing a pipe to the inlet, for connecting to a pump or other supply of cleaning fluid.

In embodiments, a branching member 15 is provided, for insertion at a position on the first fluid supply passage so as to channel a portion of the pressurised fluid supplied via the first fluid supply passage to the pressurised fluid outlet 70, via a second fluid supply passage 38. In embodiments, at least a portion of the first fluid supply passage is formed within the handle 16, so that the handle 16 provides a passage for transporting fluid between the inlet 22 and the cleaning head 18. The second fluid supply passage 38 is flexible (e.g. a flexible length of hose), to allow relative movement between the handle 16 and the waste outlet passage 46 during use. The second fluid supply passage 38 may be clipped, tied, or otherwise secured, to a portion of the handle 16. Additionally, or alternatively, the second fluid supply passage 38 may be clipped, tied, or otherwise secured to a portion of the waste outlet passage 46 and/or to a portion of the waste pipe 28. In this way, the likelihood that the second fluid supply passage 38 twists or buckles to impede flow through the passage 38 is reduced, and the likelihood of the passage 38 being caught and pulled accidentally during use, by a user, or by an obstacle, is also reduced.

Embodiments of the invention are configured so that the handle 16 of the cleaning device 12 includes multiple handle portions 17a, 17b connected endto-end by corresponding connecting formations (indicated at 20) -for example, by a screw-fit, push-fit, latch arrangement, or other suitable mechanism. In such embodiments, each portion 17a, 17b may provide a portion of the passage for transporting fluid. In this way, the handle 16 may be lengthened or shortened by adding / removing handle portions 17a, 17b. A modular handle 16 of this type may also easily be disassembled for storage. In such embodiments, the first and second portions 17a, 17b of the handle provide respective securing portions (indicated at 20) for securement to one another.

The branching member 15 may be configured to be secured between the handle 16 and the cleaning head 18 (i.e. as shown in Figure 1). In other embodiments, where the handle includes at least a first and a second handle portion 17a, 17b, the branching member 15 may be configured to be secured between the first and second handle portions 17a, 17b.

The branching member 15 comprises a T-joint (i.e. a 3-way joint) so that the cleaning fluid supplied via the first fluid supply passage is split into two streams -one stream directed to the cleaning outlet(s) 18, the other directed to the pressurised fluid outlet 70. The branching member 15 is configured so that the ratio of fluid supplied to the cleaning outlets(s) 60, to the fluid supplied to the pressurised fluid out 70 is between 3:1 and 1:3. Preferably, the ratio is between 2:1 and 1:1, and more preferably the ratio is approximately 11:9 (i.e. approximately 1.2:1).

In embodiments, the branching member 15 includes a valve, operable to alter the ratio of fluid supplied to the cleaning outlet(s) to the fluid supplied to the pressurised fluid outlet 70. The valve may be operable by a user, via a manual dial or switch. In embodiments, the valve may be operable to close one or other of the branches, so that, for example, no cleaning fluid is supplied to the cleaning outlet(s) 60 (i.e. to allow the cleaner 10 to operate using suction only), or no cleaning fluid is supplied to the pressurised fluid outlet 70 (i.e. so that the cleaner 10 performs pressure-washing without suction).

In embodiments, a valve is provided on the first fluid supply passage, operable to change the amount of cleaning fluid supplied from the pressurised fluid source to the cleaner 10. The valve may be operable to prevent flow of fluid to the cleaner 10 from the pressurised fluid source, and/or to reduce the flow rate, to affect the amount of fluid used to perform cleaning and/or the pressure of the fluid leaving the cleaning outlets 60, for example. The valve may be operable using a trigger provided on the handle, for easy operation by a user.

In embodiments in which the branching member 15 is secured between portions of the handle 17a, 17b, the branching member 15 provides corresponding third and fourth securing portions for securement to the first and second securing portions of the respective handle portions 17a, 17b. Of course, in embodiments where the branching member is secured between the cleaning head 18 and the handle 16, again, suitable securing formations are provided for connection to each of those parts. A connecting cuff 32 may be provided on the cleaning head 18, to which the handle 16 or the branching member 15 is connectable. In either case, the securing formations may provide screw-fit or push-fit formations, latching arrangements, or any other suitable mechanism as is known in the art.

In embodiments, and as shown, the cleaning head 18 provides a plurality of jet nozzles, each providing a cleaning outlet 60. The jet nozzles are configured to direct at least a portion of the cleaning fluid leaving the or each cleaning outlet 60 towards the surface to be cleaned. The jet nozzles are formed on an arm 56 configured to rotate about an axis 58. In embodiment, and as shown, the axis 58 is located centrally on the cleaning head 18. Where the cleaning head 18 is round, the arm 56 is configured to rotate about the centre point, so that the nozzles move around the perimeter (or within the perimeter) of the cleaning head 18. By "within the perimeter" we mean radially closer to the centre point.

In embodiments, the jet nozzles are configured to direct at least a portion of the cleaning fluid leaving the outlet substantially tangentially to the rotation of the arm 56. As shown in Figure 3, for example, when viewed from below, the nozzles face clockwise relative to the perimeter of the cleaning head 18. As cleaning fluid is fired from the nozzles, under pressure, at least a portion of the fluid will be directed substantially tangentially relative to the perimeter of the cleaning head 18, and the arm 56 will be caused to rotate anticlockwise about the axis 58 (view from below). Of course, in other embodiments, the directions and orientation of the nozzles may be reversed.

While in the above example embodiments the cleaning head 18 is provided with a rotary spray arm 56 providing jet nozzles, it should be understood that the suction attachment 14 of the present invention can be used with cleaning devices which have different arrangements of cleaning outlets.

When the suction attachment 14 is connected to the cleaning head 18, the sealing formation lies around or within the perimeter of the cleaning head 18. An outlet channel 50 is formed between the outlet mouth 66 and the waste outlet passage 46. A wall of the outlet channel 50 is provided by a portion of the sealing formation, as shown in Figure 4. A portion of the outlet channel 50 is disposed substantially tangentially to the cleaning volume 62 defined by the sealing formation. The outlet channel 50 is configured so as to be disposed either to the left hand or the right hand side of the cleaning device 12 (relative to the forward direction of use) when the suction attachment 14 is secured to the cleaning device 12. By positioning the outlet channel 50 to the side of the cleaning head 18, the waste outlet passage 46 which is connected or adjoins the outlet channel 50 is also disposed to either the left hand or right hand side of the cleaning device 12, respectively. This means that the waste pipe 28 is connected at one side or other of the cleaning device 12, rather than being disposed directly behind the device (in the forward direction of movement), so that the waste pipe 28 does not impede a user operating the device.

Where the outlet channel 50 is disposed tangentially to the sealing formation, it is advantageous that the jet nozzles are orientated so that cleaning fluid leaving the outlets 60 is directed substantially tangentially in the same rotational direction as the tangential outlet channel 50. So, in other words, cleaning fluid leaving the jets comes into contact with the surface being cleaned, and is generally moving approximately tangentially to the cleaning head 18 and to the cleaning volume 62 defined by the sealing formation. The fluid may come into contact with a wall of the cleaning volume 62 (i.e. the sealing formation), and swirl around that volume in the rotational direction in which it left the nozzle. The outlet mouth 66 is formed in the sealing formation, providing a gap through which fluid may enter the outlet channel 50. Since the outlet channel 50 is positioned substantially tangentially to the sealing formation and to the cleaning volume 62 defined by the sealing formation, fluid passing through the outlet mouth 66 naturally swirls into the outlet passage 60 in the same rotational direction that it was moving in within the cleaning volume 62. This configuration allows fluid to be drawn into the outlet channel 50 easily, and reduces turbulence of the fluid within the cleaning volume and outlet channel 50.

In embodiments, in a similar manner to the provision of the first fluid supply passage within the handle 16 of the cleaning device 12, a portion of the waste pipe 28 may be formed within the handle 16. In such embodiments, the handle 16 includes two channels, running lengthwise of the handle 16. A first one of the channels provides the first fluid supply passage (for supplying cleaning fluid to the floor head 18) and the second one for returning dirty fluid from the waste outlet passage 46 of the suction attachment 14. Such a configuration reduces the length of pipes required, so that the apparatus is simplified, and provides fewer obstacles and impediments to movement of the cleaner 10 and/or a user operating the cleaner 10.

As discussed, the waste outlet passage 46 provides a venturi and a pressurised fluid outlet 70. In embodiments, and as shown in Figure 5, the pressurised fluid outlet is a pressurised fluid spray, disposed within the waste outlet passage 46, configured so that it faces towards the narrow portion 74, 76, 78 of the venturi, and away from the outlet mouth 66 ('away' being in terms of the direction of flow, rather than physical orientation). The pressurised fluid outlet 70 extends into the waste outlet passage 46 from a connector 30, which fluidly connects the outlet 70 to the second fluid supply passage 38. The connector 30 may provide a securing arrangement 68 for securing an end of the second fluid supply passage 38. The securing arrangement 68 may include a threaded portion, a clip, a clamp, or any other means suitable for securing a hose (for example) or other conduit. In embodiments, the passage providing the venturi is inclined upwardly in the direction away from the outlet mouth 66 (i.e. in the direction of flow).

With reference to Figure 5, the portion of the waste outlet passage 46 providing the venturi includes an inlet part 72 and an outlet part 80. The pressurised spray nozzle 70, and connector 30, are provided on the inlet part 72 of the passage. Viewed in the direction of flow (i.e. away from the outlet mouth 66) the passage narrows (portion 74), to a passage of narrower diameter 76, and then widens gradually (portion 78) to the outlet part 80. As fluid passes through the narrowed portion of the passage, the pressure of the fluid decreases and the speed of the fluid increases, thus creating the effect of suction at the inlet portion 72.

The inclination of the passage through the venturi results in the fluid being drawn uphill slightly, at the point where the suction is generated, which assists with the fluid flow rate away from the venturi towards the waste pipe 28. It has been found that moving the fluid uphill at the point of suction is preferable to relying on the pressure of the fluid to maintain its momentum through the waste pipe 28.

In embodiments, the inlet part 72 of the passage has a diameter of approximately 35mm, and the narrowing portion 74 is formed between walls narrowing at approximately 30° to a diameter of between 16mm and 32mm. The narrow portion 76 of the passage is approximately 29mm in length, which then widens at approximately 10° through the widening portion 78. A further widening portion then widens to approximately 52°, to a diameter of approximately 46mm at the outlet part 80 of the passage.

More generally, the inlet part 72 of the passage has a diameter of between 16mm and 50mm, and the narrowing portion 74 is formed between walls narrowing at between 10° and 50° to a diameter of between 10mm and 40mm. The narrow portion 76 of the passage is typically between 16mm and 45mm in length, which then widens at an angle between 5° and 30° through the widening portion 78. A further widening portion then widens at an angle in the range of 25° to 70°, to a diameter of between 25mm and 65mm at the outlet part 80 of the passage.

In embodiments, the pressurised fluid outlet 70 is disposed between 20mm and 65mm from the narrowing portion 74 of the venturi. Preferably, the separation is between 30mm and 38mm, and more preferably the separation is approximately 35mm.

In embodiments, the suction attachment 14 is provided with a plurality of outlet mouths 66 defined by the skirt 64, each associated with a respective waste outlet passage 46. Each waste outlet passage 46 channels fluid away from its respective mouth 66, as previously described, to a respective venturi disposed within the waste outlet passage 46. In such an embodiment, a respective pressurised fluid outlet 70 is at least partially disposed within the waste outlet passage at a position between each respective outlet mouth 66 and venturi, configured for outputting a pressurised fluid in a direction generally towards the venturi so as to generate suction at its respective outlet mouth 66.

In alternative embodiments, the suction attachment may be provided with multiple waste outlet passages 46, each equipped with its own venturi and respective pressurised fluid outlet 70, each connected fluidly to its own respective outlet mouth 66.

It should be understood that the features of the described embodiments are suitable to be combined in any combination, unless specifically stated otherwise.

When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A suction attachment for a cleaning device, the cleaning device being suitable for wet-cleaning a flat surface and including: a handle graspable by a user for manoeuvring the cleaning device; and a cleaning head having a cleaning outlet for applying a cleaning fluid to the surface; and the suction attachment including: a skirt adapted to surround at least partially the cleaning outlet, and is configured for securement to the cleaning head; an outlet mouth defined by the skirt; a waste outlet passage for channelling fluid away from the outlet mouth; a venturi disposed within the waste outlet passage and a pressurised fluid outlet at least partially disposed within the waste outlet passage at a position between the outlet mouth and the venturi, configured for outputting a pressurised fluid in a direction generally towards the venturi so as to generate suction at the outlet mouth.
2. A suction attachment according to claim 1, wherein the pressurised fluid outlet comprises a fluid spray nozzle.
3. A suction attachment according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the cleaning device is of a type providing a pressurised fluid source configured to provide pressurised fluid to the cleaning outlet via a first fluid supply passage, and wherein the suction attachment further includes: a branching member for insertion at a position on the first fluid supply passage so as to channel a portion of the pressurised fluid supplied via the first fluid supply passage to the pressurised fluid outlet, via a second fluid supply passage.
4. A suction attachment according to claim 3, wherein at least a portion of the first fluid supply passage is formed within the handle, and wherein the branching member is configured to be secured between the handle and the cleaning head.
5. A suction attachment according to claim 3, wherein the handle includes at least a first and a second handle portion, and at least a portion of the first fluid supply passage is formed within each of the first and second handle portions, and wherein the branching member is configured to be secured between the first and second handle portions.
6. A suction attachment according to claim 5, wherein the first and second portions of the handle provide respective securing portions for securement to one another, and wherein the branching member provides corresponding third and fourth securing portions for securement to the first and second securing portions, respectively.
7. A suction attachment according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the second fluid supply passage is a flexible hose. 20
8. A suction attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the skirt provides a sealing formation configured to lie between the floor head and the surface being cleaned so as to seal at least partially a cleaning volume defined between the floor head and the surface being cleaned and surrounding the cleaning outlet.
9. A suction attachment according to claim 8, wherein the sealing formation forms a wall substantially surrounding the cleaning outlet, and defining a wall of the cleaning volume.
10. A suction attachment according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the sealing formation includes a brush strip formed of bristles.
11. A suction attachment according to claim any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the sealing formation includes a strip formed of at least one of rubber, foam, or a plastics material.
12. A suction attachment according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the outlet mouth is provided by a gap in the sealing formation.
13. A suction attachment according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein an outlet channel is formed between the outlet mouth and the waste outlet passage, a wall of the outlet channel being provided by a portion of the sealing formation.
14. A suction attachment according to claim 13, wherein the outlet channel is disposed substantially tangentially to the cleaning volume.
15. A suction attachment according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the outlet channel is configured so as to be disposed either to the left hand or the right hand side of the cleaning device when the suction attachment is secured to the cleaning device, relative to the forward direction of use, so that the waste outlet passage which is connected to the outlet channel is also disposed to either the left hand or right hand side of the cleaning device, respectively.
16. A suction attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning head provides a plurality of cleaning outlets.
17. A suction attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning head provides a jet nozzle forming the or each cleaning outlet, configured to direct at least a portion of the cleaning fluid leaving the or each cleaning outlet towards the surface to be cleaned.
18. A suction attachment according to claim 17, wherein the jet nozzle is formed on an arm configured to rotate about an axis.
19. A suction attachment according to claim 18, wherein the arm provides multiple jet nozzles each providing a respective cleaning outlet.
20. A suction attachment according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the jet nozzles are configured to direct at least a portion of the cleaning fluid leaving the outlet substantially tangentially to the rotation of the arm.
21. A suction attachment according to claim 20, wherein the jet nozzles are orientated so that cleaning fluid leaving the outlet is directed substantially tangentially in the same rotational direction as the tangential outlet channel.
22. A suction attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the suction attachment further includes a plurality of wheels.
23. A suction attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the waste outlet passage is fluidly connected to a passage provided within the handle so that fluid flowing through the waste outlet passage passes through the handle.
24. A suction attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising one or more attachment parts for attaching a portion of the waste outlet passage to a portion of the handle.
25. A suction attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the waste outlet passage is inclined upwardly in the direction away from the outlet mouth, wherein the venturi is disposed in the inclined portion of the waste outlet passage.
26. A suction attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, including: a plurality of outlet mouths defined by the skirt, associated with each outlet mouth, a respective waste outlet passage for channelling fluid away from the outlet mouth; a respective venturi disposed within the waste outlet passage and a respective pressurised fluid outlet at least partially disposed within the waste outlet passage at a position between the outlet mouth and the venturi, configured for outputting a pressurised fluid in a direction generally towards the venturi so as to generate suction at the outlet mouth.
27. A cleaning device for wet-cleaning a flat surface, including: a handle graspable by a user for manoeuvring the cleaner; a cleaning head having a cleaning outlet for applying a cleaning fluid to the surface, a skirt adapted to surround at least partially the cleaning outlet; an outlet mouth defined by the skirt; a waste outlet passage for channelling fluid away from the outlet mouth; a venturi disposed within the waste outlet passage and a pressurised fluid outlet at least partially disposed within the waste outlet passage at a position between the outlet mouth and the venturi, configured for outputting a pressurised fluid in a direction generally towards the venturi so as to generate suction at the outlet mouth.
28. A cleaning device according to claim 27, wherein the pressurised fluid outlet comprises a fluid spray nozzle.
29. A cleaning device according to claim 28 or claim 29, further including: an inlet for receiving pressurised fluid from a pressurised fluid source, configured to provide pressurised fluid to the cleaning outlet via a first fluid supply passage, and a branching member at a position on the first fluid supply passage so as to channel a portion of the pressurised fluid supplied via the first fluid supply passage to the pressurised fluid outlet, via a second fluid supply passage.
30. A cleaning device according to claim 29, wherein at least a portion of the first fluid supply passage is formed within the handle, and wherein the branching member is secured between the handle and the cleaning head.
31. A cleaning device according to claim 29, wherein the handle includes at least a first and a second handle portion, and at least a portion of the first fluid supply passage is formed within each of the first and second handle portions, and wherein the branching member is secured between the first and second handle portions.
32. A cleaning device according to claim 31, wherein the first and second portions of the handle provide respective securing portions for securement to one another, and wherein the branching member provides corresponding third and fourth securing portions for securement to the first and second securing portions, respectively.
33. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein the second fluid supply passage is a flexible hose.
34. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 27 to 33, wherein the skirt provides a sealing formation configured to lie between the floor head and the surface being cleaned so as to seal at least partially a cleaning volume defined between the floor head and the surface being cleaned and surrounding the cleaning outlet.
35. A cleaning device according to claim 34, wherein the sealing formation forms a wall substantially surrounding the cleaning outlet, and defining a wall of the cleaning volume.
36. A cleaning device according to claim 34 or claim 35, wherein the sealing formation includes a brush strip formed of bristles.
37. A cleaning device according to claim any one of claims 34 to 36, wherein the sealing formation includes a strip formed of at least one of rubber, foam, or a plastics material.
38. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 34 to 37, wherein the outlet mouth is provided by a gap in the sealing formation.
39. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 34 to 38, wherein an outlet channel is formed between the outlet mouth and the waste outlet passage, a wall of the outlet channel being provided by a portion of the sealing formation.
40. A cleaning device according to claim 39, wherein the outlet channel is disposed substantially tangentially to the cleaning volume. 25
41. A cleaning device according to claim 39 or claim 40, wherein the outlet channel is configured so as to be disposed either to the left hand or the right hand side of the cleaning device when the suction attachment is secured to the cleaning device, relative to the forward direction of use, so that the waste outlet passage which is connected to the outlet channel is also disposed to either the left hand or right hand side of the cleaning device, respectively.
42. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 27 to 41, wherein the cleaning head provides a plurality of cleaning outlets.
43. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 27 to 42, wherein the cleaning head provides a jet nozzle forming the or each cleaning outlet, configured to direct at least a portion of the cleaning fluid leaving the or each cleaning outlet towards the surface to be cleaned.
44. A cleaning device according to claim 43, wherein the jet nozzle is formed on an arm configured to rotate about an axis.
45. A cleaning device according to claim 44, wherein the arm provides multiple jet nozzles each providing a respective cleaning outlet.
46. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 43 to 45, wherein the jet nozzles are configured to direct at least a portion of the cleaning fluid leaving the outlet substantially tangentially to the rotation of the arm.
47. A cleaning device according to claim 46, wherein the jet nozzles are orientated so that cleaning fluid leaving the outlet is directed substantially tangentially in the same rotational direction as the tangential outlet channel.
48. A cleaning device according to any one of the preceding claims, further including a plurality of wheels.
49. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 27 to 48, wherein the waste outlet passage is fluidly connected to a passage provided within the handle so that fluid flowing through the waste outlet passage passes through the handle.
50. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 27 to 49, further comprising one or more attachment parts for attaching a portion of the waste outlet passage to a portion of the handle.
51. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 27 to 50, wherein at least a portion of the waste outlet passage is inclined upwardly in the direction away from the outlet mouth, wherein the venturi is disposed in the inclined portion of the waste outlet passage.
52. A cleaning device according to any one of claim 27 to 51, including: a plurality of outlet mouths defined by the skirt, associated with each outlet mouth, a respective waste outlet passage for channelling fluid away from the outlet mouth; a respective venturi disposed within the waste outlet passage and a respective pressurised fluid outlet at least partially disposed within the waste outlet passage at a position between the outlet mouth and the venturi, configured for outputting a pressurised fluid in a direction generally towards the venturi so as to generate suction at the outlet mouth.
53. A suction attachment as described herein and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.
54. A cleaning device as described herein and/or as shown in the 25 accompanying drawings.
55. Any novel feature or novel combination of features substantially as described herein and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.