JP2008532636A - Hard and soft floor cleaning tools and machines - Google Patents

Abstract

  The cleaning tool (100) generally includes a hub (108) having a longitudinal axis (110) and a plurality of cleaning members (106). The cleaning member is formed of a fibrous material and is connected to the hub. In one embodiment, the cleaning members are arranged along the longitudinal axis. A floor cleaning machine (102) is also disclosed and includes a moving body (105), a cleaning tool (100) and a motor (112). The moving body supports the cleaning tool and the motor and is configured to travel on the surface (104). The motor is configured to drive rotation of the cleaning hub about the longitudinal axis.

Description

Field of the Invention Generally, dry and wet floor cleaning operations are performed by dry carpet vacuum cleaners, wet carpet vacuum cleaners, hard floor sweepers and hard floor scrubbers. Typically, dry carpet vacuum cleaners include a sweeping brush that rotates in a horizontal plane (ie, parallel to the surface being cleaned) and a vacuum-driven waste collection system. The rotation of the bristle brush rubs against the surface of the carpet and sweeps dust and debris into the removal position by a vacuum driven waste collection system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Generally, wet carpet vacuum cleaners include a polishing brush, a carpet cleaning liquid applicator, and a vacuum driven waste collection system. The carpet cleaning liquid applicator applies a very small amount of cleaning liquid or dry cleaning liquid foam to the surface of the carpet. The polishing brush polishes the carpet with the cleaning solution, and the vacuum-driven waste collection system draws the dirty cleaning solution from the carpet into the collection tank. To prevent the vacuum driven waste collection system from becoming clogged with large dust particles, the carpet is typically vacuum cleaned with a dry carpet vacuum cleaner prior to performing a wet carpet cleaning operation.

  A hard floor sweeper is similar to a carpet cleaner in that it uses a rotating sweep brush to sweep away dust and debris from the surface, which is then collected by a vacuum-driven waste collection system. . Such hard floor sweepers often include a dust-proof system that sprays water onto the surface before the sweeping brush contacts the surface to prevent dust on the surface from being swept into the air.

  In general, hard floor sweepers are not used on carpet surfaces due to the problem of static buildup, which can reset the sweeper electronics. Even when the sweeper is “grounded” using electrostatic straps, chains, and other components, problems with static build-up arise.

  In general, hard floor scrubbers include a cleaning liquid applicator, one or more rotating scrubber brushes, and a vacuum driven waste collection system. The cleaning liquid applicator usually sprays the cleaning liquid or foam-like cleaning liquid onto a hard floor surface that is to be cleaned by a rotating scrubber brush. The scrubber brush includes a horizontal scouring member (bristle brush or cleaning pad) that rotates about the longitudinal axis. Vacuum-driven waste collection systems typically include a squeegee located at the rear end of the cleaner adjacent to the floor-cleaning member to store liquid and waste. The vacuum sucks the stored liquid and debris through a hose and deposits the collected waste in a collection tank.

  Before performing a hard floor polishing operation, it is usually necessary to first sweep the floor. This is because the scrubber vacuum driven waste collection system is necessary to prevent clogging with large dust particles. Dual-use hard floor cleaners have been developed that include both hard floor sweepers and hard floor scrubbers, thereby eliminating the need for two separate machines. Generally, such cleaners include two vacuum-driven waste collection systems, one for collecting dry or slightly moist garbage collected by a sweeping system, and the other for For dirty cleaning fluids generated by polishing systems.

  Various floor cleaning operations, such as those involving both carpet and hard floor areas (eg airports, offices, schools, etc.), various floor cleaners, eg dry and wet carpet vacuum cleaning Machine, and hard floor sweepers and scrubbers.

  It takes time to perform the cleaning operation using such various machines. First, the carpet surface area must be aspirated with a dry carpet vacuum cleaner. Next, the carpet surface area must be cleaned with a wet carpet vacuum cleaner. Finally, the hard floor area must be cleaned using both a hard floor sweeper and a hard floor scrubber, or by both sweeping and polishing operations with a dual-purpose hard floor cleaner.

  Such various surface cleaning operations are costly due to the number of machines involved. Not only must each machine be properly maintained, but the machine operator must be trained for each machine and sufficient storage space must be available to store the machine.

  In addition, vacuum systems for dry and wet carpet cleaners, and hard floor sweepers and scrubbers consume a large percentage of the energy required to operate them. In addition to high energy costs, the operation time of battery-powered systems such as walk-behind hard floor scrubbers and sweepers is significantly limited by their vacuum system. As a result, a larger battery is required to provide the desired long run time. Such a battery increases the cost of the machine due to the expense of the battery itself. In addition, the machine becomes even more expensive because it needs to be larger to accommodate larger batteries.

  Also, significant noise caused by dry and wet carpet cleaners and hard floor sweeper and scrubber vacuum systems is a problem. For example, in a company, it is common to perform a floor cleaning operation during off-hours to prevent the machine from interfering with visitors and employees. Nevertheless, the cleaning operation often needs to be performed during peak business hours, resulting in significant hindrance.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention provide solutions to these and other problems and propose other advantages over the prior art.

  Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to a cleaning tool and a mobile floor cleaner that includes the cleaning tool. An embodiment of the cleaning tool includes a hub having a longitudinal axis and a plurality of cleaning members. The cleaning member is formed of a fibrous material and is connected to the hub. In one embodiment, the cleaning members are arranged along the longitudinal axis.

  An embodiment of the floor cleaning machine includes a moving body configured to travel over the surface. The mobile supports the cleaning tool, and the cleaning tool is configured to polish the surface. In addition, the cleaning machine includes a motor that drives rotation of the cleaning hub about the longitudinal axis.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION One aspect of the present invention is directed to a cleaning tool configured for use in a surface cleaner, such as a hard and soft mobile floor cleaner. Another aspect of the invention is directed to a mobile floor cleaner that includes a cleaning tool.

  FIG. 1 is a front plan view of a representative cleaning tool 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a simplified side view of an exemplary mobile floor cleaning machine 102 of an embodiment of the present invention that includes a cleaning tool 100. The machine 102 is configured to support the cleaning tool 100 for contacting the surface 104 and rotate the cleaning tool 100 to polish the surface 104. Embodiments of the surface 104 can be a hard (eg, cement, tile, stone, etc.) or a soft (eg, carpet, rug, etc.) floor.

  In one embodiment, the cleaning tool 100 includes a plurality of cleaning members 106 connected to a hub 108. The hub 108 has an associated longitudinal axis 110 and the cleaning member is configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis when mounted on the cleaning machine 102. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the longitudinal axis 110 extends substantially parallel to the surface 104 when the cleaning tool 100 is mounted on the machine 102.

  The hub 108 shows a configuration in which a cleaning member is connected and rotated around the longitudinal axis 110 by the motor 112 of the cleaning machine 102. In this way, the hub 108, when viewed as a whole, includes one or more components that serve the purpose of supporting rotation around the longitudinal axis 110 when the cleaning member 104 is mounted on a cleaning machine. It can take many different shapes including.

  In one embodiment, the hub 108 is cylindrical and the longitudinal axis 110 is concentric with the cylindrical hub 108. The hub 108 can also take alternative non-cylindrical shapes while still serving the cleaning member support function.

  In one embodiment, the cleaning members 106 are arranged along the longitudinal axis 110, for example as shown in FIG. Embodiments of the cleaning tool 100 include aligning the cleaning member 106 along less than 48 inches of the hub 108, less than 36 inches of the hub 108, and less than 24 inches of the hub 108.

  In other embodiments of the cleaning tool 100, the cleaning member 106 is arranged around the longitudinal axis 110. That is, as shown in FIG. 5B, the cleaning members 106 are angularly displaced around the longitudinal axis 110.

  When the hub 108 is attached to the machine 102, the motor 112 is configured to rotate the hub 108 and the connected cleaning member 106 about the longitudinal axis 110. In one embodiment, the hub 108 includes an end 114 that is received by the machine 102. In one embodiment, the end 114 is secured by an easily removable mechanism that allows convenient replacement of the tool 100. In another embodiment, the hub 108 includes a sleeve configured to slide over the shaft of the machine 102 that is rotated by the motor 112. In yet another embodiment, the hub 108 includes the shaft of the cleaning machine 102 to which the cleaning member 106 is connected.

  The cleaning member 106 can be connected to the hub 108 directly or indirectly (ie, via an intermediate component). In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, connecting the cleaning member 106 to the hub 108 compresses the cleaning member 106 between end members 116, eg, rigid disks, that are secured to the hub 108. Including. Other means for securing the cleaning member 106 to the hub 108 or its components include using adhesives, clamps, staples, screws, brackets, and other suitable mechanical means. In another embodiment, the cleaning member 106 extends into the hub 108 through a slot.

  The cleaning member 106 can take various shapes. In one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3A, the cleaning member 106 is disk-shaped. Further embodiments include a cleaning member having an alternative shape, examples of which are illustrated in FIGS. In one embodiment, the cleaning member 106 includes a slit or notch 118, as illustrated in FIG. 3B. Other exemplary cleaning member shapes of embodiments of the present invention include ellipses, squares (FIG. 3C), rectangles (FIG. 3D), triangles, irregular shapes, symmetric shapes, and other shapes.

  In one embodiment, the cleaning member 106 is a flat member having a width 120 and a length 122 (FIG. 3A) and is greater than a thickness 124 (FIG. 1). The width and length edges, or the circular edges of the disc-like cleaning member, define the plane of the cleaning member 106 when placed horizontally or flat. In one embodiment, thickness 124 is in the range of 0.002 to 0.25 inches, and width 120 and length 122 are in the range of 2 to 24 inches.

  In one embodiment, the cleaning member 106 (ie, the plane 126) is oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis 110 as shown in FIGS. 1, 4A and 4B. FIG. 4A is a front view of a portion of an exemplary cleaning tool 100 illustrating an exemplary cleaning member 106 that contacts the surface 104 during rotation of the cleaning tool 100. An additional cleaning member 106 and hub 108 are shown in phantom. 4B is a side cross-sectional view of the exemplary cleaning tool of FIG. 4A. In another embodiment, the cleaning member 106 is substantially concentric with the longitudinal axis 110. In one embodiment, the hub 108 extends through an opening 128 (FIGS. 3A-3C) in the cleaning member 106, as shown in FIG. 4B.

  In yet another embodiment, the cleaning member 106 is oriented generally parallel to the longitudinal axis, as illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, each of which is representative of an embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a front view and a side partial view of a cleaning tool 100. In FIG. 5A, only one cleaning member 106 is drawn to simplify the drawing, while in FIG. 5B, a plurality of cleaning members 106 are shown.

  In another embodiment, the cleaning member includes a proximal end 130 that is directly or indirectly connected to the hub 108 and a longitudinal direction when the cleaning member 106 extends or rotates about the longitudinal axis 110. And a distal end 132 that is radially offset from the distal end from the axis 110. When the hub 108 extends through the opening 128 (FIGS. 4A and 4B) of the cleaning member 106, the proximal end 130 is the edge of the opening 128.

  In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4B, the proximal end 130 includes an elongated edge 133 oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis 110. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5A, the elongated edge 133 of the proximal end 130 is oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 110.

  In one embodiment, at least the surface contact portion (eg, distal end 132 or outer edge) of the cleaning member 106 comprises a fibrous material. As used herein, the term “fibrous material” is intended to describe a material comprising a plurality of intertwined fibers or a knitted fabric of a single fiber. Thus, the hair of the conventional sweeper scouring head is not formed from a fibrous material because it does not include such intertwined or knitted fibers.

  The fibrous material of the cleaning member 106 facilitates the collection, capture, or grabbing of solid and liquid waste from the surface 104 during the cleaning operation, and the waste is then disposed of in the waste container of the machine 102. 134 can be discharged. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 5B, the fibrous material can also bend at the distal end 132 when the cleaning member 106 is in contact with the surface 104 under relatively low pressure. become. This allows the cleaning member 106 to expand the cleaning surface of the cleaning member 106 beyond the tip of the distal end 132. In addition, the flexibility of the distal end 132 of the cleaning member 106 allows the cleaning member to conform to the surface 104 being polished. As will be described in more detail below, such waste collection characteristics of the cleaning member 106 eliminates the need for a vacuum driven waste collection device, such as used in prior art hard or soft floor cleaning machines.

  One exemplary fibrous material that can be used in a cleaning member to provide the desired solid or liquid waste collection function is manufactured by microfiber, such as Toray Ultrasuede Inc. (USA) of New York, NY. It is what. In another embodiment, the fibrous material comprises polyester and polyamide, such as approximately 70% polyester and 30% polyamide. In another embodiment, the fibrous material includes spandex (eg, 3%) to provide elasticity to the cleaning member 106, thereby providing additional flexibility to the cleaning member 106 to the surface being polished. It becomes possible to fit. Other embodiments of the fibrous material include Kevlar and / or nylon. The durability of the cleaning member 106 can be increased using such a material.

  Each cleaning member 106 can include one or more fibrous material layers. In one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning member 106 forms a single fibrous material layer having a desired thickness 124. Also, a multi-layer cleaning member 106 can be formed, preferably comprising two or more fibrous materials that are connected to each other at their edges.

  In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the cleaning member 106 includes a first layer 136 formed of a fibrous material and a second layer formed of another material different from the fibrous material. 6 is a cross-sectional side view taken generally along line 6-6 of the embodiment of the cleaning member 106 depicted in FIG. 3A.

  In one embodiment, the second layer 138 is configured to provide the desired rigidity to the cleaning member 106. For example, a stiffer cleaning member 106 is used for cleaning operations on more rebound surfaces such as concrete or stone, and less rigid on more sensitive surfaces such as hard wooden floors. It may be desirable to have a cleaning member 102 or to provide a desired scouring action on the surface. Exemplary materials that form the second layer 138 include foam, rubber, plastic, and other materials.

  In one embodiment, the second layer 138 is substantially surrounded by the first layer 136, as illustrated in FIG. As such, the second layer 138 can define a desired thickness for the cleaning member 106, and various thicknesses of the cleaning member 106 are included. For example, the portion of the cleaning member 106 that is adjacent to the proximal end or edge 130 can be thicker than the portion that is adjacent to the distal end 132, so that the distal end 132 of the adjacent cleaning member 106 is juxtaposed. When arranged in a mold, a gap can be created between them.

  In another embodiment of the present invention, as shown (virtually) in FIGS. 1 and 4A, the cleaning tool 100 includes a plurality of spacer members 140 between adjacent cleaning members 106. The spacer member 140 provides additional space between the distal ends 132 of adjacent cleaning members 106, which allows the cleaning member 106 to flatten against the surface 104 (FIG. 4A) Performance is improved. In one embodiment, the spacer member 140 is formed of a material that is not liquid absorbent, such as foam, plastic, rubber, or other suitable material. In one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 7, the spacer member 140 is attached to one or both sides of the cleaning member 106, and FIG. 7 is a side view of a representative cleaning member 106.

  With reference to FIGS. 2, 8 and 9, a more detailed description of an embodiment of the floor cleaning machine 102 is provided. FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the representative floor cleaning machine 102 shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a simplified diagram of a floor cleaning machine 102 according to various embodiments of the present invention.

  The floor cleaning machine 102 generally includes a moving body 150, the cleaning tool 100 described above, and a motor 112. The cleaning tool 100 and the motor 112 are both supported on the moving body.

  In one embodiment, the motor 112 is a motor powered by line power through a battery or suitable cable supported on a mobile (not shown). Alternatively, the motor 112 can be a combustion engine.

  Overall, the motor 112 is configured to rotate the cleaning tool 100 about the longitudinal axis 110 during the cleaning operation of the surface 104. In one preferred embodiment, the motor 112 rotates the cleaning tool as indicated by the arrow 142 shown in FIGS. In this embodiment, the distal end 132 of the cleaning member 106 that contacts the surface 104 moves forward as indicated by the arrow 143. In another embodiment, motor 112 rotates cleaning tool 100 in a direction opposite to the direction indicated by arrow 142.

  The linear velocity at which the distal end 132 of the cleaning member 106 touches the surface (hereinafter “tip velocity”) is the angular velocity at which the cleaning member rotates about the horizontal axis and the longitudinal direction at the distal end 132. Depending on the distance extending radially from the axis 110. In one embodiment, an angular speed of approximately 200-500 revolutions per minute (rpm) is used for the cleaning tool 100 that includes a disk-shaped cleaning member 106 having a radius of approximately 8 inches. It should be noted that this significantly reduces the angular speed at which conventional sweepers and scrubbers rotate their tools, which is approximately 600-800 rpm. Reducing the speed at which the cleaning tool 100 of the present invention rotates not only results in significant energy savings, but also reduces the operating noise level of the surface cleaner 102.

  Embodiments of the mobile body 150 include a frame or housing with wheels or other mobile supports shown generally as 152, which allows the mobile body 150 to travel over the surface 104. Although the floor cleaning machine 102 is depicted as a walk-behind machine, embodiments of the machine also include a riding-type mobile.

  In one embodiment, one or more front wheels 152A pivot to allow easy direction control of the machine 102. In another embodiment, one or more wheels 152, such as rear wheel 152B, are driven by a motor, such as motor 112 or a separate motor (not shown).

  In another embodiment, none of the wheels 152 are motor driven. Instead, the mobile is manually propelled by the operator. In one embodiment, the machine 102 includes a handle 154 that extends rearward from the moving body, as opposed to the front 143. The operator pushes the handle 154 to propel the machine 102 forward 143 over the surface 104 and pulls the handle to move the machine 102 backward over the surface 104.

  In one embodiment, the machine 102 includes a housing 158 that can be part of the moving body 150. The housing 158 generally encloses the components of the machine 102 and provides other functions. One embodiment of the housing 158 includes a bottom opening 160 (FIG. 8) through which the distal end 132 of the cleaning tool 100 can extend toward the surface 104 as shown in FIG.

  One embodiment of the housing includes an opening 162 that exposes the waste container 134 to the cleaning tool 100. Liquid and solid waste collected by the cleaning member 106 during rotation of the cleaning tool 100 is discharged into the waste container 134 through the opening 162.

  Another embodiment of the housing 158 is substantially compatible with the outer surface of at least a portion of the upper side 166 of the cleaning tool 100 (eg, the distal end 132 of the cleaning member 106) during operation, as shown in FIGS. A surrounding portion 164. The enclosure 164 functions to guide the waste collected by the cleaning tool 100 to the opening 162 where the waste is discharged into the waste container 134 when the cleaning tool rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow 142. Discharged inside. In an embodiment of the invention, the gap between the enclosure 164 and the upper side 166 of the cleaning member 106 is less than 0.3 inches, preferably less than 0.2 inches.

  Other embodiments of the housing 158 include a removable cover (not shown) through which the components of the machine 102 can be accessed.

  Preferably, the skarting 168 (FIGS. 2 and 8) extends downward from the outer periphery of the bottom opening 160 toward the surface 104 to prevent spray from the rotating cleaning tool 100 from leaking under the cleaner 102. To do. Embodiments of skarting 168 include flexible shield members 168A located on opposite sides of opening 160, flexible shield members 168B located on the rear side of opening 160, and / or flexible shield members located on the front side of opening 160. 168C included. In one embodiment, the skarting 168 includes at least a shield member 168A.

  A waste container 134 is supported on the mobile body 150 and may form part of the housing 158. As described above, the waste container 134 is positioned to receive the waste (eg, liquid and solid waste) indicated by the arrow 169 and the waste is dumped from the rotating cleaning member 106 through the opening 162. Is done. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 9, the waste container 134 is positioned behind the machine 102 and opening 162.

  In another embodiment, the waste container 134 is located on the front side of the cleaning tool 100, which is opposite to the location of the container 134 shown in FIGS. In one embodiment, the cleaning tool 100 rotates in a direction opposite to the direction indicated by the arrow 142.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, the waste container 134 is detachable from the cleaner 102 for easy disposal of the waste contained therein. In another embodiment of the present invention, the waste container 134 includes a disposable container or liner in which the waste 169 from the cleaning tool 100 is collected. A disposable container can be discharged when it is full. This embodiment of the present invention reduces contact between the user of the cleaner 102 and the collected waste.

 One embodiment of the floor cleaning machine 102 includes a cleaning liquid dispenser 170 supported on the moving body 150. One embodiment of the dispenser 170 includes a supply of cleaning liquid 172, as shown in FIG. In one embodiment, the supply of cleaning liquid 172 is held in a container 173 (FIG. 2) supported on the mobile body 150. An embodiment of container 173 includes a fixed tank and a removable container.

  The dispenser 170 is generally configured to apply a cleaning liquid 172 to the cleaning member 106 of the cleaning tool 100 as shown by arrows 174 in FIGS. In another embodiment, the cleaning liquid dispenser 170 applies cleaning liquid from the supply 172 to the surface 104, as indicated by arrow 176, but preferably the front side rather than the back side of the cleaning tool 100 as shown in FIG. Call it. In yet another embodiment, the cleaning liquid dispenser 170 applies cleaning liquid to both the surface 104 and the cleaning member 106.

  One embodiment of the supply 172 of cleaning liquid 172 simply includes water 178 (eg, tap water, distilled water, deionized water, deionized highly filtered water (soft water) supply, etc.). It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such cleaning fluids will include additional elements normally found in water supplies.

  Another embodiment of the supply of cleaning liquid 172 includes mixed water (eg, tap water, distilled water, deionized water, etc.) and a cleaning agent (eg, synthetic detergent or other chemical additive). In one embodiment, water and cleaning agent are premixed and stored in container 173 as cleaning liquid. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the dispenser 170 includes separate supplies of water 178 and cleaning agent 180 supported on the mobile body 150, which are mixed by the mixing member 182 to provide cleaning liquid. 172 is created. In one embodiment, the supply of cleaning agent 180 is contained in a removable container supported on the mobile body 150.

  Embodiments of the mixing member 182 include tee joints, valves, and / or other flow regulation components that join the fluid flow junction, for example, the piping from the cleaning agent supply 180, to the piping from the feed water 178. In one embodiment, the mixing member 182 includes an injector and injects a flow of cleaning agent 180 into the flow of water 178 at a predetermined rate that achieves the desired mixing rate. In one embodiment, the injector operates to draw up the cleaning agent 180 using a venturi member. In operation, the flow of water 178 through the injector creates a vacuum that draws the flow of cleaning agent 180 into the flow of water 178 at the desired rate. One such suitable injector is a 50580 siphon manufactured by Spraying Systems Company of Wheaton, Illinois.

  In one embodiment of the invention, the detergent supply 180 is highly concentrated (eg, 30% or more solids). One embodiment of the cleaning agent 180 includes a polymeric surfactant that cleans and disinfects or decomposes scum, mold, mildew, contamination and odor. In addition, the surfactant is preferably safe for application to carpets, natural fibers, fixtures, tiles, chrome, glass fibers, baked enamels, porcelain, vinyl, stainless steel, artificial marble and other materials. .

  In addition to including one or more surfactants, the cleaning agent 180 may include a builder, a solvent, or other components. In one embodiment of the invention, the detergent comprises an anionic surfactant, a non-anionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, or a combination thereof. A particularly preferred surfactant is DETERIC CP-Na-38 manufactured by DeForest Enterprises, Inc. of Boca Raton, Florida.

  Further embodiments of the cleaning liquid 172 include one or more additives, such as antifungal and / or antimicrobial additives.

  A typical cleaning solution uses unfiltered tap water (ie, hard water) that contains hard minerals such as iron and manganese. If not wiped clean, the surface can take a long time to dry. In addition, stains or residues often form on hard surfaces due to hard minerals in the moisture. In one embodiment of the invention, the water used to form the cleaning liquid 172 comprises deionized highly filtered water (i.e., soft water), which may be a residue formed on the surface after the cleaning operation. Is reduced.

  In another embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning liquid dispenser 170 includes a filter 184 that matches the flow of the cleaning liquid 172. The filter 184 operates to remove hard minerals (eg, iron and manganese) from the cleaning solution 172 water before the cleaning solution water is applied to the cleaning tool 100 or the surface 104. In one embodiment, if separate supplies of water 178 and cleaning agent 180 are used, the filter 184 can be matched to the water supply 178, but before the mixing member 182. Embodiments of filter 184 include filtering members, such as ceramic, glass fiber, hard block carbon, and / or other water filtering materials. One preferred water filter is General Electric's “SmartWater” model C filter system, which reduces the addition of chlorine residue, minerals and rust to all residues.

  When the cleaning liquid 172 includes water and a cleaning agent, the ratio of water to cleaning agent / additive in the cleaning liquid 172 is preferably very high, for example 1000: 1. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the ratio of water to detergent is approximately 3000: 1. Such a high ratio of water to cleaning agent provides effective cleaning of the surface 104 while reducing the potential for visible residue left behind. In addition, the low proportion of cleaning agent in the cleaning liquid results in almost no chemical waste from the cleaning operation. As a result, embodiments of the present invention leave little cleaning agent residue after application to the surface 104, generate little chemical waste, and extend the life of the cleaning agent 180 supply.

  One embodiment of the cleaning liquid dispenser 170 includes a pump 186 and a cleaning liquid distributor 188. The pump 186 is configured to drive the flow of cleaning liquid from the supply 172 to the distributor 188. Embodiments of the present invention include driving the cleaning liquid at flow rates of less than 100 square centimeters per minute (cc / min.), 50 cc / min., 20 cc / min., And 10 cc / min. One suitable pump 186 is SLV10-AC41 manufactured by ShurFlo.

  In one embodiment of the invention, pump 186 pulsates to provide the dispenser with a desired flow rate of cleaning liquid. For example, the pump 186 can be used for 0.5 seconds every 13 second cycle. Such pulsation of pump 186 provides a cleaning fluid flow rate of approximately 20 square centimeters per minute to cleaning member 106. Other wash / rinse cycles can also be performed using different pulsation periods, as described below.

  Distributor 188 discharges cleaning liquid 172 to a desired location (eg, cleaning member 106 and / or surface 104). In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the distributor 188 includes at least one nozzle 190 that directs a flow of cleaning liquid to the cleaning member 106 (shown) or the surface 104. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the distributor 188 includes a single wide angle spray nozzle 190 to spray the cleaning liquid 172 across the surface of the cleaning member 106. One such suitable nozzle is R187C manufactured by Rain Drip, Inc.

  In another embodiment of the present invention, the machine 102 includes an aerator that is configured to foam the cleaning liquid with air. The aerator can be combined with the cleaning liquid distributor 188 in the form of an air rating nozzle.

  The control unit 200 (FIG. 9) controls the operation of the machine 102 including the operation of the motor 112 and the pump 186. The control unit 200 can be provided with a user input unit 202 to start various cleaning operations or cycles described below. The user input unit 202 can be accessed via, for example, a control panel 204 provided on the handle 154.

  One embodiment of the machine 102 lacks a vacuumed waste collection system, such as a vacuumed squeegee. Instead, the machine 102 relies on the liquid and solid waste collection characteristics of the fibrous cleaning member 106 to pick up solids and liquids on the surface 104 and polish the surface 104, especially when wet with cleaning liquid. The collected waste 170 is discharged into the waste container 134 in accordance with the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the cleaning member 106.

  The lack of a vacuumed waste collection system results in a quieter cleaning operation and a much higher energy efficiency of the machine 102. As a result, the machine 102 of the present invention is more suitable for use during business hours than prior art cleaners having a vacuumed waste collection system. In addition, the machine 102 of the present invention can be made smaller and lighter than prior art cleaners and have a longer operating time (e.g., powered by a battery).

  One embodiment of the machine 102 includes a vacuumed waste collection system supported on the mobile 150. Embodiments of the vacuumed waste collection system are configured to remove waste collected from the surface 104 at a location remote from the waste container 134 and / or the machine 102 (eg, through a vacuum hose).

  Wetting the fibrous material (eg, microfiber) used in the cleaning member 106 allows the cleaning member 106 to release static electricity, thereby eliminating the need for an electrostatic discharge member, such as a chain. As a result, the machine 102 avoids electrostatic discharge problems that can damage conventional surface cleaners, making the machine 102 suitable for both hard and soft floor cleaning operations.

  As a result, the cleaning tool 100 can perform both carpet and hard floor cleaning operations without having to adjust the machine 102. In this way, a single machine 102 operated by one person can perform a carpet cleaning operation at one point and move directly to a hard floor cleaning operation without stopping and adjusting the machine 102 at other times. Is possible. This provides significant advantages over prior art cleaning methods including using different machines for hard and soft floor cleaning operations.

  The use of a low cleaning liquid flow rate also helps to quickly dry hard and soft floor surfaces 104.

  One embodiment of the present invention includes a method for cleaning hard and soft floor surfaces using the machine 102 without reconfiguring the machine 102. In this method, the machine 102 rotates on the hard floor surface while rotating the cleaning tool 100 so that the cleaning member 106 contacts the hard floor surface, and then maintains the rotation of the cleaning tool 100 so that the cleaning member 106 is soft. Move on the soft floor while touching the floor. Further embodiments include applying cleaning fluid to the cleaning member, rotating the cleaning member 106 to move it forward (arrow 143) on the surface, and waste picked up by the cleaning member 106 within the waste container 134. Collecting 170.

  In another embodiment of the present invention, the machine 102 includes a motorized cleaning tool lift 210 supported by a moving body 150, exemplarily illustrated in FIG. The cleaning tool lift 210 is configured to raise and lower the cleaning tool 100 relative to the housing 202 and the surface 104 being cleaned. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning tool lift 210 automatically adjusts the position of the cleaning tool 100 so that the cleaning tool 100 applies a substantially constant downward force on the surface 104. The downward force can be adjustable via the user input 202, for example via the control panel 204. Thus, for example, when the machine 102 moves from a carpet surface to a hard floor surface, during which substantially the same downward force is applied to either surface, the cleaning tool 100 can be lowered. U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,675,935, 4,679,271 and 4,757,566 describe suitable cleaning tool lifts.

  Even if the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the cleaning tool 100 is exerted to discharge much of the liquid and debris collected by the cleaning member 106 into the waste container 206, the cleaning member 106 becomes slightly damp after the cleaning operation. May remain untouched. Therefore, when a long time has passed after the last cleaning operation, bacteria and mold may develop on the cleaning tool. This problem can be remedied by performing a drying cycle and including antifungal and / or antimicrobial components in the cleaning solution.

In one embodiment of the invention, the machine 102 includes a UV sterilizer 220 (FIG. 9) having a radiation source that operates under the control of a controller 200 (eg, Direct Logic model number D0-05DR-D). To do. The UV sterilizer 220 is configured to control bacterial and fungal growth of the cleaning tool 100 as indicated by arrows 222. The radiation source is preferably housed within the housing 158 and is sufficiently covered to prevent significant leakage of ultraviolet radiation and to eliminate the need for the operator to protect the eyes. The ultraviolet radiation source is preferably substantially constant relative to the surface of the cleaning member 106 across the entire width of the cleaning tool 100 on a scale sufficient to provide a degree of sanitization to the surface of the cleaning member 106. Configured to provide ultraviolet radiation. Preferably, the amount of radiation given to the surface of cleaning member 106 is in the range of 10-60 mW / cm ² .

  The ultraviolet radiation source can include one or more ultraviolet lamps or other suitable ultraviolet sources. The UV lamp is preferably a mercury flood lamp having a ballast (built-in ballast) built into the lamp. Alternatively, the UV lamp can be external ballast driven. An optional cooling device, such as a fan, may be provided to ensure sufficient cooling of the UV source. In one embodiment, the wavelength of ultraviolet radiation generated by the ultraviolet source is in the range of ultraviolet C-waves and is less than 280 nanometers. In one embodiment of the invention, the primary energy of the ultraviolet source is a wavelength in the range of 240-260 nanometers. One suitable UV source is manufactured by UVP-Inc., Upland, Calif., Production number 90-0012-01, which emits a mercury spectrum with a primary energy at a wavelength of 254 nanometers.

  In another embodiment of the invention, the UV radiation source of UV sterilizer 220, or another UV source, provides UV radiation (arrow 224) to surface 104 to kill bacteria and other bacteria thereon. Let Embodiments of ultraviolet radiation provided to the surface 104 include the amount of radiation described above.

  Embodiments of the machine 102 can perform a number of different cleaning operations or cycles. The cycle can be performed automatically by the control unit 200 or in response to the user input unit 202. An example of such a cleaning cycle is described below.

  A start or pre-wetting cycle of the machine 102 can be performed prior to the cleaning operation to ensure that the cleaning tool 100 is sufficiently moistened with the cleaning liquid. In one embodiment of the present invention, a predetermined amount of cleaning liquid is applied to the cleaning member 106 by the cleaning liquid dispenser 170 while the cleaning tool 100 is rotated by the motor 112. The centrifugal force applied to the cleaning liquid caused by the rotation of the cleaning tool 100 limits the amount of cleaning liquid remaining on the cleaning member 106 upon completion of this pre-wetting cycle.

  In one embodiment of the invention, the pre-wetting cycle is performed only if the cleaning tool 100's determination of liquid content indicates that it needs to be performed. In one embodiment of the present invention, a history of motion information is maintained in the built-in memory 226 of the machine 102, which includes information that can be used to determine the wetness of the cleaning tool 100. For example, information regarding when the machine 102 was last operated, information regarding the time and amount of cleaning fluid last applied to the cleaning tool 100, information regarding the time the pre-wetting cycle was last performed, etc. are stored in the memory 226. From which it can be determined whether a pre-wetting cycle should be performed.

  In another embodiment of the invention, the sensor is used to determine the wetness of the cleaning tool 100 and if the sensor indicates that the wetness is below a threshold, a prewetting cycle is performed.

  In general, the surface cleaning operation is performed by applying a desired amount of cleaning liquid to the cleaning member 106 of the cleaning tool 100 when the cleaning tool 100 is rotated by the motor 112. The cleaning member 106 picks up solid and liquid waste from the surface 104 (eg, tile, stone, cement, carpet, wood, etc.) and at the same time polishes the surface 104 with a cleaning member 106 moistened with a cleaning liquid. As shown in FIGS. 4A and 5B, the cleaning member 106 bends in response to the cleaning tool 100 and conforms to the surface 104. In this manner, the distal end 132 of the cleaning member 106 that contacts the surface 104 is preferably slightly flattened to provide the desired polish of the surface 104 while at the same time remaining as a result of the machine 102 on the hard surface. Reduces the possibility of forming "muscles". In addition, when the cleaning member 106 is oriented vertically, it can enter the gap to remove dirt and liquids therein.

  During the surface cleaning operation, the cleaning tool 100 is continuously cleaned by draining the waste 170 (liquid and particulates) into the waste container 134 and applying a new cleaning liquid 172 to the cleaning member 106. The tool cleaning operation can be performed by wetting the cleaning tool 100 and rotating it on the dirty surface 104 without operating the machine 102. A plurality of tool cleaning operations can be performed to remove excessive debris from the cleaning member 106.

  In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a cleaning liquid jet to the cleaning tool 100 or surface 104, for example to clean spots or dry mess on the surface 104. In one embodiment of the present invention, the operator of the machine 102 applies a user input 202 (eg, a button press) to the controller 200 to temporarily reduce the amount of cleaning liquid 172 released by the cleaning liquid dispenser 170. Can be increased.

  Additional user inputs 202 can adjust the rotational speed of the cleaning tool 100 and / or the pressure applied to the surface 104 by the cleaning tool 100 to provide the desired scouring operation of the surface 104.

  The machine 102 can also perform a rinse cycle to remove dirt and cleaning liquid from the cleaning tool 100. Generally, the cleaning tool 100 is sprinkled with water during rotation, thereby rinsing the tool. In one embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning liquid 172 is made by mixing a separate supply of water 178 and cleaning agent 180 (FIG. 9), and water from the built-in water supply 178 can be used as a cleaning liquid dispenser 170 or other device. Through and can be directed to the cleaning tool 100.

  Further, the drying cycle can be executed by rotating the cleaning tool 100 at a high angular velocity without applying the cleaning liquid by the machine 102. Due to the high rotational speed of the cleaning tool 100, the liquid absorbed by the cleaning member 106 is discharged into the waste container 134.

  The machine 102 can also be used to apply a coating, such as a wax coating, to the surface. In this embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning liquid 172 is replaced with a liquid wax applied to the cleaning tool 100 or the surface 104 and applied to the surface 104 by rotation of the cleaning member 106 at a desired pressure.

  Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, although the cleaning tool has been described as being used with a mobile floor cleaner, those skilled in the art will recognize that the cleaning tool, along with other surface cleaning machines configured to provide rotation of the cleaning tool by a motor. It is understood that it is operable.

It is a front top view of the typical cleaning tool of embodiment of this invention. 1 is a simplified side view of an exemplary mobile floor cleaning machine of an embodiment of the present invention including a cleaning tool. FIG. FIG. 2 is a simplified plan view of a representative cleaning member of an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a simplified plan view of a representative cleaning member of an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a simplified plan view of a representative cleaning member of an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a simplified plan view of a representative cleaning member of an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a front view of a portion of an exemplary cleaning tool illustrating an exemplary cleaning member that contacts a surface during cleaning tool rotation, with several components virtually illustrated. FIG. FIG. 4B is a side cross-sectional view of the exemplary cleaning tool of FIG. 4A. It is a partial front view of the typical cleaning tool of embodiment of this invention. 1 is a partial side view of an exemplary cleaning tool of an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of the cleaning member schematically taken at line 6-6 of the cleaning member depicted in FIG. 3A, according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a side view of the typical cleaning member of embodiment of this invention. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the exemplary floor cleaning machine shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a simplified diagram of a floor cleaning machine of various embodiments of the present invention.

Claims (15)

A hub having a longitudinal axis;
A plurality of cleaning members connected to the hub and arranged along the longitudinal axis and comprising fibrous material;
A plurality of spacer members respectively positioned between the pair of cleaning members;
Cleaning tool for use on floor cleaning machines, including   The cleaning tool of claim 1, wherein each cleaning member comprises a flat member comprising a fibrous material, each of which has a length and a width that are greater than the thickness of the flat member.   The cleaning tool according to claim 2, wherein each cleaning member includes a proximal end connected to the hub, the proximal end including an elongated edge extending transversely to the longitudinal axis.   The cleaning tool of claim 2, wherein each cleaning member includes a proximal end connected to the hub, the proximal end including an elongated edge extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.   The cleaning tool of claim 2, wherein the thickness of each cleaning member is in the range of 0.002 inches to 0.25 inches.   The cleaning tool according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning member is disk-shaped, and the outer edge of the cleaning member includes a fibrous material and is configured to bend in response to contact with the surface.   The cleaning tool of claim 1, wherein the cleaning member comprises a microfiber.   The cleaning tool according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning member includes a first layer formed of a fibrous material and a second layer formed of a material different from the fibrous material. A moving body configured to travel on the surface;
A cleaning tool supported on a moving body and configured to polish a surface,
A hub having a longitudinal axis;
A plurality of cleaning members connected to the hub and arranged along the longitudinal axis and comprising fibrous material;
A plurality of spacer members respectively positioned between the pair of cleaning members;
A cleaning tool including
A motor supported on the moving body and configured to drive rotation of the hub about the longitudinal axis;
Including floor cleaning machine.   The machine of claim 9, wherein the cleaning member is disk-shaped and the outer edge of the cleaning member includes a fibrous material and is configured to bend in response to contact with the surface. A machine further comprising a cleaning liquid dispenser supported on the moving body, wherein the cleaning liquid dispenser comprises:
A container configured to contain a supply of water;
A water filter configured to receive a flow of water from the container;
A pump configured to drive the flow of water from the container through the water filter;
A distributor configured to discharge a flow of water to one of the cleaning members and the surface;
The machine of claim 6, comprising:   A handle further extending rearwardly from the mobile body, wherein the motor is configured to drive the rotation of the hub to move forward as opposed to rearward when the cleaning member is in contact with the surface. 11. The machine according to 11.   The machine of claim 11, further comprising a waste container supported on the mobile and located on a rear side of the cleaning tool.   The housing further includes a housing having a bottom opening through which a portion of the cleaning tool extends through the bottom opening, an enclosure substantially matching the upper side of the cleaning tool, and an opening for the waste container, the cleaning tool being an opening to the waste container. 14. A machine according to claim 13, wherein the collected waste is discharged into the waste container through.   The machine of claim 11, wherein the mobile does not support a vacuumed waste collection system.

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