JP6735999B2 - System and method for handrail cleaning - Google Patents

Description

Claiming Priority This application is a continuation-in-part application of US Patent Application Publication No. 15/859,868, filed January 2, 2018, and claims the benefit thereof. It claims the benefit of US Patent Application Publication No. 15/294,721, filed October 15, 2016, and is now US Patent No. 9,856,115. It claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 14/745,412, filed June 20, 2015, and is currently U.S. Patent No. 9,764,929. It claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 62/051,671 filed September 17, 2014. All of these are incorporated herein in their entirety as if fully set forth herein.

The present disclosure relates generally to handrails, and more specifically to systems and methods for cleaning handrails.

Handrails are used in stairs, ADA-applied lamps, escalators, and many walkways to help users maintain balance and safety. As a result, handrails are touched by the human hand and all the elements on it, as well as those found in buildings and outdoors. Handrails have been shown to contain bacteria and viruses, so they should be cleaned regularly to maintain the health and safety of users, especially children, the elderly, and others who may be immunocompromised. There is a need to. Cleaning the balustrade can come with its own risks. It may be necessary to lean across the aisle to clean it. Furthermore, cleaning the handrails is a tedious but time-consuming task, and sometimes human labor is diverted from difficult tasks. The disclosures disclosed herein aim to simplify the handrail cleaning process by improving in terms of production, safety, and ease of cleaning the handrails.

The present disclosure relates generally to handrails, and more specifically to systems and methods for cleaning handrails. This system consists essentially of a cleaning pad and means for deploying the cleaning pad.

In some embodiments, a system for cleaning a handrail comprises at least one strut having a distal end and a proximal end, and at least one pad located at the distal end of the strut. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a pad located at the distal end of the strut, which can be configured to enclose at least a portion of the handrail. In some embodiments, the pad located at the distal end of the strut substantially conforms to the shape of the handrail. In some embodiments, a pad located at the distal end of the strut may be pivotally connected to the strut. In some embodiments, a pad located at the distal end of the strut may be configured to slide over and out of the handrail at the end of the handrail. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the strut can include a handle. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the strut may be located on the support structure. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the strut may be pivotally disposed on the support structure. In some embodiments, a system for cleaning a handrail is a first strut and a second strut, the second strut being located below the first strut and in proximity to the second strut. A first strut and a second strut, the ends of which may be disposed on the support structure; a first pad and a second pad in which the second pad is disposed at the distal end of the second strut. It may further include; the first pad and the second pad are substantially aligned through the vertical surface. In some embodiments, the support structure may be located on four wheels. In some embodiments, the four wheels can be casters. In other embodiments, two of the four wheels may be casters and the other two wheels may not be casters.

In some embodiments, a system for cleaning a handrail includes a support structure; a strut disposed on a front portion of the support structure; a first pad disposed on the strut; and a strut below the first pad. A second pad located at. In some embodiments, a system for cleaning a handrail is at least one support structure; at least one strut having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of at least one support structure. At least one strut that may be located in the anterior portion; and at least one pad located at the distal end of the at least one strut. In some embodiments, the first pad and the second pad may be arranged such that the first pad and the second pad can be substantially aligned along a vertical plane. In some embodiments, the first pad and the second pad may be arranged such that the handrail moves first through the first pad and then through the second pad. In some embodiments, the strut further comprises a substantially straight portion having a first end and a second end, the first end connecting the anterior portion of the support structure. And a mounting bracket disposed on the second end of the strut, the mounting bracket further comprising an upper mount and a lower mount. In some embodiments, the first pad can be located on the upper mount of the mounting bracket and the second pad can be located on the lower mount of the mounting bracket.

In some embodiments, a system for cleaning a handrail is a support structure; a strut having a first end and a second end, the first end disposed on the support structure. A strut; a mounting bracket having an upper mount and a lower mount, the mounting bracket being disposed at a second end of the strut; a first pad disposed on the upper mount; and a lower mount. A second pad located at. In some embodiments, the system for cleaning the handrail further includes casters located at the leading edge of the support structure. In some embodiments, the system for cleaning handrails further comprises wheels located at the trailing edge of the support structure.

In addition to the foregoing, various other method, system, and/or program product embodiments are disclosed in the text (eg, the claims, drawings, and/or forms of implementing the invention) and/or the disclosure. Of the drawings and the like.

The above is a summary and thus contains, by necessity, simplifications, generalizations and omissions of detail. As a result, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the overview is illustrative only and is not intended to be limiting in any way. Other aspects, embodiments, features and advantages of the devices and/or processes described herein and/or other subject matter will be apparent from the teachings described herein.

Specific embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the following drawings.

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a system for cleaning an escalator handrail in an extended or operative position. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the environment of the system. FIG. 3 is a side view of the surroundings of the system. FIG. 3 is a side view of an embodiment of the system. FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a portion of the system. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a system for cleaning a handrail of an escalator in a maintenance position. FIG. 6 is a side view of a portion of an embodiment of a system for cleaning a handrail of an escalator in a maintenance position. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a system for cleaning an escalator handrail in a stored position. It is a side view of the said system. FIG. 6 is a bottom view of one embodiment of a system for cleaning escalator handrails. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a cleaning element for a system for cleaning escalator handrails. FIG. 12a is a front view of the above element. Figure 12b is a side view of the above elements. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a system for cleaning ADA-applied handrails in a storage position. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a system for cleaning ADA-applied handrails in an extended position. FIG. 7 is an exploded isometric view of a system for cleaning ADA-applied handrails. FIG. 7 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a cleaning element device of a system for cleaning ADA-applied handrails. It is a front view of the said apparatus. FIG. 18a is a right side view of the device. Figure 18b is a left side view of the device. FIG. 8 is an exploded isometric view of another embodiment of a system for cleaning ADA-applied handrails. FIG. 7 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a system for cleaning escalator handrails. FIG. 7 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a system for cleaning escalator handrails. FIG. 3 is a right side view of the system. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a system for cleaning an escalator handrail in an extended or operative position. FIG. 24 is an isometric view around the system shown in FIG. 23. FIG. 24 is a side view around the system shown in FIG. 23. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the system configured with the cart door in the stowed position and the cart door in the open position. FIG. 6 is a rear isometric view of the system configured with the cart door in the stowed position and the cart door in the closed position. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a system for cleaning the escalator handrail in the maintenance position. FIG. 6 is a side view of an exemplary subassembly of a system that includes a post, a mounting bracket, and a cleaning element. FIG. 7 is an exploded isometric view of an exemplary subassembly of the system. FIG. 9 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a cleaning element for a system for cleaning a handrail. FIG. 32 is an isometric view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 31, including a pad. FIG. 32 is a front view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 31, including a pad. FIG. 32 is a side view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 31, including a pad. FIG. 32 is an isometric view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 31, including a retention clip. FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing a retaining clip engaged with a cleaning element. FIG. 37 is a front view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 36, showing exemplary ranges of cleaning element deflection to accommodate insertion onto a handrail and/or different cross-sectional contours of different handrails. 36 is an isometric view of a cross section of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 35. FIG. FIG. 36 is a front sectional view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 35. FIG. 40 is a front view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 39 without the retaining clip, showing exemplary ranges of deflection of the cleaning element to accommodate insertion onto the handrail and/or different cross-sectional contours of different handrails. FIG. 8 is an isometric view of yet another embodiment of a system for cleaning a handrail. 7 shows a handle configured to selectively couple to a cleaning element. 42 is an isometric view of a cross section of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 41. FIG. 42 is an isometric view of a system shown in FIG. 41 and including a pad coupler configured to secure a pad to a cleaning element. FIG.

The present disclosure relates generally to handrails, and more particularly to systems and methods for cleaning handrails. Specific details of particular embodiments of the disclosure are set forth in the following description and in FIGS. 1-43 to provide a thorough understanding of such embodiments. This disclosure may have additional embodiments, one or more of the details may be practiced or not described for any particular described embodiment, and described for another embodiment. Any of the details described for one particular embodiment may be implemented, along with any other details provided.

Importantly, the grouping of aspects of the invention in any particular "embodiment" of the mode for carrying out the invention and/or the grouping of the limitations in the claims presented herein. Are not intended to be limitations on the disclosure and/or the particular embodiments and/or claims limiting the particular aspects. The subject matter of the invention presenting this disclosure is fully intended to be any disclosed aspect of any embodiment in the form for carrying out the invention and/or this disclosure and/or this application. Limitation of any claim presented so far to any continuing application claiming priority from (eg, continuation, partial or continuous continuation of an application) May be practiced in any other disclosed aspect of any embodiment in the form of and/or with any limitation of the claims. The various embodiments and/or claimed combinations derived from the claims presented at the beginning are entirely within the ownership of the subject matter of the invention at the time the present disclosure is filed. Each limitation disclosed in the specification and therefore supported as if originally claimed or originally filed in the specification (or any continuing application claiming priority from this application). Any future claims, including any combination of these, are hereby owned by the entity of the invention at this time, whether or not such combinations are described herein. All such combinations are considered by the entity of the present invention to be presently practicable without undue experimentation given the disclosure herein, and thus any such future claims. This is because it does not represent new matter.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a system for cleaning an escalator handrail in an operating position. The system consists essentially of a cart device 100 and a cleaning pad device 200.

In some embodiments, the cart 100 can include a handle 110. The handle 110 can be multi-purpose. First, the handle 110 can be used to push and pull the cart 100 into and out of position. Second, the handle 110 can be used to engage or disengage the spring 111, which then engages or disengages the handle brake 112. In some embodiments, the brake 112 normally engages the wheels 172 and the handle 112 must be manipulated to disengage the brake 112. For example, in some embodiments, handle 110 is depressed, causing spring 111 to raise brake 112 and disengage wheel 172. When the handle 110 is removed, the spring 111 is released and the brake 112 engages the rear wheel 172 to prevent the cart from moving. In other embodiments, the handle 110 must be raised to release the brake 112. When the handle 110 is removed, the brake 112 engages the wheels 172 to prevent movement of the cart.

In other embodiments, the brake 112 is typically disengaged and the handle 110 must be manipulated to brake the wheels 172. For example, the handle 110 can be raised to the locked position and the spring 111 can push down the brake 112 to engage the wheel 172. In another embodiment, the handle 110 can be pushed down into the locked position to move the spring 111 to the brake 112 and engage the rear wheel 172. The spring 111 may be a compression spring, a clock spring, a torsion spring, a tension spring, or any other type of tensioning device that does not change the function of the spring. Similarly, the handle 110 may be made of metal, plastic, wood, curved, straight, or any other shape or material that does not alter the function of the handle.

In some embodiments, the cart 100 can include a receptacle 120. The receptacle 120 may be used to reject or store or transport other elements of the present disclosure. The receptacle 120 may have an opening at the top of the cart, may include a lid (not shown), may be removable or replaceable, and may be rigid or flexible material as required by the application. Can consist of

In some embodiments, cart 100 may also include at least one tray 130. In embodiments, the tray 130 may be used to store the cleaning fluid used with the present disclosure. In another embodiment, the tray 130 may be used to store or transport additional cleaning pads or elements of the present disclosure. The tray 130 can be made of any rigid or semi-rigid material. In some embodiments, the tray 130 can be made of a material that has certain properties such as recommended non-reactivity with cleaning liquids, rust resistance, strength or thermal properties. In some embodiments, tray 130 is supported by beam 140. In some embodiments, the beams 140 can be as many as four. In other embodiments, the beams 140 can be as many as three as shown in FIG. In some embodiments, cart 100 can include a second tray 131. Tray 131 can serve any of the purposes of tray 130.

In some embodiments, the cart 100 can include a base 170. The base 170 is a support structure for the cart 100 and can itself be any rigid material that does not affect the functionality of the base. In some embodiments, base 170 may include front wheels 171. The wheels 171 tend to be smaller than the rear wheels 172, allowing for greater maneuverability of the cart 100, but in some embodiments the front wheels are substantially the same size as the rear wheels 172, or more. It can be even larger. In some embodiments, wheels 172 may be covered by a portion of base 170, such as wheel guard 175.

In some embodiments, the base 170 can include a bracket 173 with which the struts 160 are connected. The bracket 173 can be secured to the base 170 in any number of ways as long as the bracket does not move substantially. The struts 160 are designed to be moveable so that they can be secured to the bracket 173 in any number of ways as long as it can rotate around the fasteners. In some embodiments, strut 160 can be a single strut. In some embodiments, struts 160 may consist of multiple arms such as forearm 161 and aft arm 162. In some embodiments, the struts 160 may consist of one, two, three, four, or more individual arms. In multi-arm embodiments, each arm can move in series or individually, depending on the needs of a particular application. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the strut 160 comprises two front arms 161 and two rear arms 162, the lower portions of both sets of arms being attached to the front and rear portions of the bracket 173, respectively. Has been. The upper part is connected to the crossbar 165, which moves the individual arms in series. The crossbar 165 is further connected to a mounting bracket, which is better depicted in FIG.

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a system for cleaning the operating position and handrails of an escalator in use. In this embodiment, the struts 160 extend to allow the cleaning element 200 to be positioned at least partially around the escalator handrail 270. Details regarding the cleaning element 200 are better disclosed in the other figures discussed further herein.

3 and 4 are side views of one embodiment of a system for cleaning escalator handrails. FIG. 3 shows a system with escalator handrails. FIG. 4 is a system for illustration purposes only. These figures better show the integration of the rest of the struts 160 with the mounting bracket 150, otherwise known as the cleaning pad carriage.

In some embodiments, there may be a stopper 180 between the cart base 170 and the struts 160. In some embodiments, the stopper 180 may be fixed, providing a constant position for the strut 160 as the strut extends into the operative position. In other embodiments, the stopper 180 may be adjustable. In a further embodiment, the stopper 180 can be adjusted by rotating the knurled knob 181. In a different further embodiment, the stopper 180 can be adjusted by loosening the stopper from the attachment to the base 170 and rotating it relative to the plane of the base.

In some embodiments, the struts 160 can further include a location element 163. The function of the position element 163 is to assist in positioning and stability of the cleaning element 200. In some embodiments, the position element 163 can be a pneumatic cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder. In some embodiments, the position element 163 can be a gas spring. In some embodiments, the position element 163 can be any other type of linear spring. The reciprocating linear movement of the position element 163 can be achieved in many ways without changing the function of the element.

Struts 160 are connected to mounting bracket 150. In some embodiments, the joint between strut 160 and bracket 150 is fixed. In some embodiments, the joint between strut 160 and bracket 150 is movable. In an embodiment, the mounting bracket 150 rotates about its interface with the struts 160, allowing the mounting bracket and cleaning element 200 to have different positions relative to the struts 160. See FIGS. 6 and 9 for examples. Allowing movement at the juncture between the strut 160 and the bracket 150 further allows for more accurate positioning of the cleaning element 200 with respect to the cart 100 and the escalator handrail 270. In some embodiments, the joint between them may allow movement in only one direction. In other embodiments, the joint can allow movement in more than one direction. In some embodiments, the joint can be a ball joint, allowing nearly 100% freedom of movement. In some embodiments, the joint may allow movement in more than two axes.

In some embodiments, the mounting bracket 150 can have only one mount. In the embodiment, the mounting bracket 150 has two mounts, an upper mount 151 and a lower mount 152. In this configuration, the user can clean the escalator handrail 270 by passing the handrail through both the upper and lower cleaning elements. In one method of use, the user dips one cleaning element 200 into the cleaning liquid and attaches it to the lower mount 152. The dry cleaning element 200 is attached to the upper mount 151 and the cleaning element is bent to fit around the handrail 270. The handrail 270 is cleaned first through the damp cleaning element and then through the dry element. Note the direction of travel 280 as shown in FIG. A specific direction of travel is recommended as it allows the handrail to dry more completely as it travels the length of the escalator. This is important for at least three reasons. One is to prevent dust and other debris from escalator mechanisms such as rollers and guides from collecting on the handrails. Furthermore, if a wet handrail enters the system, the guidance and tracking of the drive system may be interrupted, potentially damaging the handrail and escalator as a whole. Furthermore, placing the handrail cleaner at the new (emergency) end of the escalator helps prevent situations where any part of the handrail cleaner gets caught on the handrail and is trapped by the handrail system. With the advent of handrails, any element that becomes trapped in the handrail can be pulled away before it enters the system, eliminating damage and safety risks associated with items becoming incorporated into the handrail system. ..

In other uses, the dry cleaning element 200 can be mounted on the upper mount 151 and a brightener or conditioner can be placed on the cleaning element mounted on the lower mount 152. In other uses, the solution can include brighteners or conditioners and the drying element can act as a desiccant and buffer. There are many uses that are facilitated by arranging two cleaning elements one above the other, which allows an automated, almost autonomous cleaning of the escalator handrails.

In some embodiments, cleaning element 200 is coupled to mounts 151 and 152 via fasteners 153. In some embodiments, the fastener 153 is permanent. In some embodiments, the fastener 153 is removable, allowing for easy installation and removal of the cleaning element 200. In some embodiments, the fasteners 153 can be push-button pins, quarter turn fasteners, tension latches, quick release fasteners such as push turn fasteners, or other easily removable standard fasteners.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the joint between strut 160 and mounting bracket 150. Here, it is possible to see an embodiment in which the struts 160 have a front armset 161 and a rear armset 162. One can see the positioning elements 163 arranged between the set of arms comprising the struts 160. In one embodiment, forearm 161 can be joined by fasteners 166. In some embodiments, the rear arm 161 can be joined by fasteners 167. In some embodiments, the fastener 166 or fastener 167 may be further positioned via the mounting bracket 150. In this embodiment, the mounting bracket 150 can be rotated around the fasteners 166 or 167 to allow alternative positioning of the bracket. In some embodiments, the left and right arm sets may be joined via a central bracket 164. The central bracket 164 may house the latch 190. In some embodiments, the latch 190 can have a first notch 191, a second notch 192, and a third notch 193. This particular feature and alternative positioning will be discussed in more detail in FIG.

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a system for cleaning an escalator handrail, the system being in a cleaning element change position. As can be seen, the bracket 150 can be rotated so that the mounts 151 and 152 are substantially parallel to the base 170. This allows the user to more easily change the cleaning element 200 or part thereof.

The cross-sectional view of this position shown in FIG. 7 is illustrative. Note that the image is rotated so that the front of cart 100 is on the left. FIG. 7 illustrates that in some embodiments, the bracket 150 can be rotated to present the cleaning element 200 for easy and quick replacement. When the bracket 150 is rotated, its surface is substantially horizontal or substantially parallel to the plane of the base 170 (not shown in this figure), which allows easy access to the cleaning element 200.

In some embodiments, mounting bracket 150 is coupled with latch 190. One method of use is to prevent the latch 190 from engaging and returning the bracket to its use position when the bracket 150 is in the alternate position. In another embodiment, the latch 190 is used to hold the bracket 150 in any position, including the in-use position, for additional structural integrity. In another embodiment, the latch 190 may be used to disengage the bracket 190 from its in-use position to allow movement to another position. In some embodiments, the latch 190 can have a first notch 191. As the bracket 150 rotates to the changed position, the notch 191 can engage the catch 194 to hold the bracket in that position. In other embodiments, the latch 190 can have a first notch 191 and a second notch 192. When the bracket 150 is in the use position, the notch 192 may engage the catch 194 to hold the bracket in the wash or use position. As the bracket 150 rotates to the modified position, the notch 191 may engage the catch 194 to hold the bracket in the modified position. In some embodiments, the latch 190 can have a first notch 191, a second notch 192, and a third notch 193, each notch allowing different positions of the mounting bracket 150. In some embodiments, the latch 190 can include a spring 195. The spring 195 can be used by the bracket 150 to establish a “standard” position, allowing the bracket to return to that position when the latch is disengaged from the catch 194. In some embodiments, spring 195 may only provide a force that opposes the force exerted by bracket 150 on the rest of the system when the bracket is in any position. As depicted in FIG. 7, spring 195 is a torsion spring. However, the spring 195 can be a compression spring, a clock spring, a tension spring, or any other type of spring without changing its function.

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a system for cleaning an escalator handrail in a stored position. FIG. 9 is a side view thereof. In this position, the struts 160 are stowed substantially vertically, as opposed to when the system is in the operative position, with the struts at an angle of about 45 degrees to the vertical. In some embodiments, the cart 100 may include a latch to maintain the stored position. In other embodiments, the retracted position may be maintained by the linear spring 163 or by some combination of the linear spring and a separate locking mechanism.

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of one embodiment of a system for cleaning escalator handrails. A bracket 173 to which a strut (not shown) is fixed is arranged to penetrate the surface of the base 170. In some embodiments, the fasteners that connect the bracket 173 to the base 170 can be permanent, such as rivets. In other embodiments, the fasteners may be removable, such as nuts and bolts. In certain applications, it may be valuable to be able to replace the entire strut or move the strut assembly from a damaged base to an intact one. Thus, any number of fasteners can be used in that location without changing the function of base 170 and bracket 173.

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of one embodiment of cleaning element 200. The cleaning element 200 consists essentially of a flexible foam 210. In some embodiments, flexible foam 210 can be any flexible material such as plastic, foam, or any number of composite materials. In other embodiments, flexible foam 210 may be composed of non-reactive or substantially inert materials such as silicone, silicone rubber, Teflon, and the like. The primary function of the flexible foam 210 is to provide a particular shape for the cleaning element 200, which allows the element to generally conform to the surface and sides of the handrail and cover almost completely. It is still flexible enough to be placed on or removed from the handrail without damaging the handrail or foam. However, the flexible foam 210 will almost certainly come into contact with at least one cleaning liquid, many of which contain at least one corrosive or chemically abrasive component. Flexible foam 210 may also come in contact with brightener, wax, and handrail materials. As such, the material properties of the flexible foam 210 can become relevant to a particular application. Thus, many flexible materials can function without changing either the primary or secondary function of the flexible foam 210 and can be changed as needed for a particular application. ..

The cleaning element 200 may also include a cleaning cloth 240. The cloth 240 can be microfiber, cotton, terry cloth, or any number of standard cleaning cloth materials, although embodiments include microfibers to retain moisture and collect and retain debris. use. In this application, the cleaning cloth 240 often needs to both retain the cleaning liquid and capture any debris removed in the cleaning process, for which microfibers are particularly suitable. ..

The cleaning cloth 240 is flush with the inner portion of the foam 210 and is designed to cover the entire surface. To do so, it must be retained on the foam 210 in some manner that does not interfere with the function of the cleaning cloth 240. One solution is to use a support cloth 230. In some embodiments, the support fabric 230 is joined to the cleaning fabric 240 with seams that are generally along the edges between the inner and outer portions of the foam 210. The support cloth 230 and the cleaning cloth 240 extend over the foam 210, leaving an upper spot to allow the foam to project and access the pinhole 260. In some embodiments, the fabric is retained on the foam 210 by straps 220, which are placed through slits 250 in the top of the flexible foam. In other embodiments, the support fabric 230 may be elastic enough to maintain its position on the foam 210 without the use of straps. In other embodiments, the strap 220 can be directly connected to the cleaning cloth 240. In other embodiments, the fabrics 230 and 240 can be one material that is placed on the foam 210 in any of the ways described above.

Pinhole 260 is the point where foam 210 is joined to mounting bracket 150 via fastener 153. This is discussed in more detail above.

FIG. 12 a is a front view of the cleaning element 200. The side-to-side contour of the cleaning element 200 is designed to cover and fit snugly on the top and side of the handrail, and the cleaning cloth 240 provides the entire surface of the handle that the user may touch. To be able to touch. 12b is a side view showing the contour of the cleaning element 200 from the front side to the back side. This is a non-limiting example where the depicted embodiment has a slight curve. As can be seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the system for cleaning the escalator handrails can be located at the end of the escalator where the handrails begin to exit the floor and travel the length of the escalator. The slightly curved longitudinal contour allows the cleaning element 200 to maintain a little longer contact with the new end of the handrail, resulting in better cleaning between the handrail and the cleaning element. Also, the points of friction are reduced, which ultimately reduces system wear. However, in other embodiments, the longitudinal profile is substantially straight, allowing the system to be used on other parts of a moving walkway or escalator where there are no curves on the handrail.

Also, disability American law requires cleaning and conditioning. FIG. 13 is an isometric view of one embodiment of an ADA applied handrail cleaner. In this embodiment, the cleaning element 200 is attached to the handle element 300. In some embodiments, the handle 300 can be a fixed length. In some embodiments, the handle 300 can be retractable, as seen in FIG. Embodiments of the telescopic handle 300 can include one or more sections 301, in which the sections gradually diminish and allow most of the handle to fit into a single section length. To do so. In FIG. 14, this feature is visible as the diameter of each section decreases as the handle moves away from the cleaning element 200. This should not be construed as limiting the number of sections of the telescopic handle 300. As long as there are more than one section, the handle will be telescopic. The sections may be joined together by a locking mechanism 302 when the handle 300 is retractable. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 301 may be a clamp lever, twist lock, or any other telescopic locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the handle 300 may include a return spring so that portions of the handle automatically retract into each other when the locking mechanism 301 is released. This telescoping mechanism allows the user to extend the cleaning element 200 along the entire length of the handle to do so without having to stand on stairs or ramps, making the cleaning process safer and more ergonomically successful. To do.

FIG. 15 is an exploded view of an embodiment of the ADA-applied handrail cleaner. The handle 300 is connected to the cleaning element 200 by adding a socket 310, a bracket 320, a thumbscrew 330, and a bolt 340. The bracket 320 is connected to the flexible foam 210 via a fastener 153 that is placed through the foam of the pinhole 260, similar to the escalator handrail cleaner embodiment. In some embodiments, the bracket 320 may include one or more gaskets 321. In some embodiments, the bracket 320 may be rigidly coupled to the foam 210 such that the handle 300 is at an angle to the cleaning element 200. In other embodiments, the bracket 320 can be coupled to the foam 210 so that the handle 300 can be rotated with respect to the cleaning element 200. In one such embodiment, the handle 300 may be movable along a longitudinal plane so that the handle can move from a substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical position. In another such embodiment, the handle 300 may be universally pivoted to allow the handle to move in any plane about the cleaning element 200. This type of embodiment may be useful in delivering cleaning element 200 to curved stairs or ramps, or around corners.

The fastener 340 is placed through the hole in the bracket 320 and the socket 310 is screwed into the fastener. In some embodiments, the fastener 340 can be a permanent fastener such as a rivet. In other embodiments, the fastener 340 may be removable, such as a bolt. In a further embodiment, the fasteners 340 can be scored to allow installation and removal without the use of tools. When the socket 310 is in place, the handle 300 is screwed into the socket. The thumbscrew 330 is then screwed into the top hole of the socket 310 and the user can manually tighten the screw to reinforce the joint between the handle 300 and the cleaning element 200. In some embodiments, the thumbscrews may be scored to facilitate better grip and control by the user.

16, 17, and 18 are detailed views of the cleaning element 200 with modification for use with the handle 300. FIG. 16 is an isometric view showing bracket 320 connected to foam 210 by fasteners 153. It also shows that the cleaning element 200 is substantially the same as the cleaning element used in the escalator handrail cleaning embodiment. The cleaning element 200 has a cleaning cloth 240 that is connected to a support cloth 230 and a plastic foam 210 by straps 220. The variants of the cleaning element 200 are not repeated here, but all the variants disclosed above still apply. In some embodiments, the cleaning element 200 can be sized slightly different in ADA application compared to escalator application, but it performs the same function.

FIG. 17 is a front view of one embodiment of the cleaning element 200. This figure shows the joint of bracket 320 to socket 310. The socket 310 is connected to the bracket 320 by a fastener 340 that passes through a hole in the bracket 320 and enters a threaded receptacle on the bottom of the socket 310. Thumbscrews 330 allow the user to tighten handle 300 (not shown) into socket 310.

FIG. 18 a is a right side view of one embodiment of the cleaning element 200 with the bracket 320, socket 310, and screws 330 installed, the bracket being connected to the cleaning element 200 by fasteners 153. FIG. 18b is a side view of the left side thereof.

FIG. 19 is an exploded isometric view of a different embodiment of a handrail cleaner. In this embodiment, the cleaning element 200 consists of a substantially flexible foam 210 and a cleaning cloth 240, as discussed in FIG. In this embodiment, the cleaning cloth 240 may include straps 241. The strap 241 can be used to hold the pad 240 on the foam 210 with the aid of the strap 220 and the spring clip 234, in which case the strap 220 passes through a slit 250 in the top of the flexible foam. And are held in place with clips 234. The strap 241 is then coupled to the strap 220 to hold the fabric 240 in place while the spring clip 234 holds the strap 242 to the foam 210. This embodiment of cloth 240 is compatible with escalator handrail cleaning mechanisms or ADA-applied handrail cleaning mechanisms. The pinhole 260 is still available for use in a handrail cleaner, and the joint between the ball 420 and the socket 421 allows it to be used as an ADA-applied handrail cleaner. The joint between the ball 420 and the socket 421 also allows for greater mobility between the handle 300 and the cleaner 200 as the ball fits into the socket but still rotates freely therein.

FIG. 20 is an isometric view of a different embodiment of an escalator handrail cleaner. In this embodiment, the positioning element 163 is connected to the two-part base and the lower part 176 and the upper part 177 are joined by a fastener 178, leaving a gap between the upper and lower base parts. .. In this embodiment, mounting bracket 150 may be further positionable via thumbscrew 196. This can be turned to loosen or tighten the clamp to allow the mounting bracket to be raised or lowered.

FIG. 21 illustrates that in some embodiments a two-part base may be operably coupled to the slider portion 179, which may be self-supporting or attached to the floor or cart base 170. Good. The clamp 197 is operably coupled to the two-part base to provide a locking mechanism by which the base can be held in place or the base along the slider portion 179 when the clamp is released. Allow slides.

FIG. 22 is a right side view of an embodiment of a slider, showing the claim 197 in proper position with respect to the two-part base and slider, as well as allowing the mounting bracket to be moved, tilted, removed, or replaced. Shows a thumbscrew 198 configured in FIG.

FIG. 23 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a system for cleaning escalator handrails. The system is shown in the extended position (or operating position). The system consists of a cart 500 and a cleaning element assembly 600.

In some embodiments, the cart 500 can include a handle 510. The handle 510 can be used to push or pull the cart 500 into the proper position. The handle 510 may be made of metal, plastic, wood, and may be curved, straight, or any other shape or material that does not change the function of the handle.

In some embodiments, the cart 500 can include a receptacle 520. The receptacle may be defined as the space between the base 570 and the door 530. The receptacle 520 can be used to store and/or transfer supplies, such as cleaning fluids, tubs, replacement parts, instruments, and/or other items via the cart 500.

The door 530 is rotatable and may be connected to the support 540. The support 540 may connect the handle 510 to the base 570. The support 540 may be an elongated member vertically connected to the base. The door 530 can be opened and closed by rotating around the support portion 540. The door 530 opens during the cleaning process and can be used to block or define the space near the cleaning element assembly 600, preventing, for example, the possibility of unauthorized interaction with the cleaning element assembly 600 during the cleaning process. Or reduce that possibility.

The base 570 is a support structure for the cart 500, and thus can be any rigid material that does not affect the functionality of the base. The base 570 can be generally rectangular or square in shape. However, other shapes (eg, rhombus, parallelogram, ellipse, etc.) may be used. In various embodiments, the base can be generally square shaped, but can include chamfers that remove some of the corners of the square (when viewed from above). In some embodiments, the base 570 can include wheels 571. Wheels 571 may be located near the corners or edges of the base. In some embodiments, the cart 500 can include three or four wheels 571. Wheels 571 may be casters, which are configured to pivot to allow movement of cart 500 when in different directions. The casters can be used to move the cart 500, and thus the cleaning element assembly 600, to perform the cleaning functions described herein. In some embodiments, wheels 571 may be covered by a portion of base 570, such as a wheel guard.

In some embodiments, cart 500 can include post 560. The post 560 can be directly connected to the base 570. The post 560 can be an elongated arm or member that projects outwardly from the base 570. Even an escalator installed adjacent to a wall may have a corner or base 570, or near the edge of the base, to allow the cleaning element assembly 600 to be positioned on the handrail of virtually any escalator. The columns 560 can be connected to each other. The posts 560 may include features that allow for adjustment of the cleaning element assembly 600 relative to the base 570, thereby providing height adjustment of the cleaning element assembly 600.

In some embodiments, the post 560 may be coupled to the post pivot mechanism 562. The column turning mechanism 562 may be connected to the base 570. The post pivot mechanism 562 may allow the post 560 to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the post 560. In some embodiments, the post pivot mechanism 562 may be implemented as discs connected at the center of rotation.

The yoke 564 can be connected to the post 560. The yoke 564 may be movable along the post 560, which may allow adjustment of the height of the yoke 564 relative to the base 570. The yoke 564 can include a coupling mechanism that selectively engages the post 560. The yoke 564 may not move relative to the post 560 when the coupling mechanism is engaged with the post 560. When the coupling mechanism is at least partially disengaged from post 560, yoke 564 can be moved relative to post 560, for example, along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of post 560.

The mounting bracket 566 may be rotatably coupled to the yoke 564. A mounting bracket (otherwise known as a cleaning pad carriage) may support one or more cleaning elements 568 forming a cleaning element assembly 600. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket 566 can be "C" shaped and can include two cleaning elements located at the ends of the mounting bracket 566. Rotation of the mounting bracket 566 with respect to the post 560 may allow the cleaning element 568 to be placed in the correct, maintained and/or retracted position of the escalator handrails. The mounting bracket 566 can be coupled to the yoke 564 via a pin and can rotate about the pin at or near an intermediate position in the body of the mounting bracket 566. Therefore, the yoke 564 can be coupled to the location of the mounting assembly 566 between the coupling elements 568. Other types of joints may be used to allow the rotation thus described.

In various embodiments, the cleaning element 568 may be rotatably coupled to the mounting bracket 566. Rotation of the cleaning element 568 relative to the mounting bracket 566 may allow the cleaning element 568 to be placed in the correct position on the escalator handrail during the cleaning operation. Each cleaning element 568 may be coupled to the mounting bracket 566 via a pin and may rotate about the pin. However, other types of joints may be used to allow the rotation thus described.

FIG. 24 is an isometric view around the system shown in FIG. As shown, the cleaning element 568 is disposed at least partially around the escalator handrail 270 during a cleaning operation. During the cleaning operation, the escalator handrail 270 can move in the direction shown in FIG. 24 (clockwise as shown in this example). The first of the cleaning elements 568, 568(1), can be soaked with a cleaning liquid applied to the escalator handrail 270 during operation of the escalator. It is not necessary to stop the escalator to begin cleaning with the system described herein. The second cleaning element 568(1) of the cleaning elements 568 absorbs at least a portion of the cleaning liquid and removes debris, dirt, and/or other foreign matter from the escalator handrail 270 to remove the escalator handrail 270. It can include an absorbent pad that can be cleaned and/or sanitized. The cleaning process may be run for a predetermined time, after which the cart 500 may be repositioned on the handrail of another escalator, the cleaning element may be reimmersed in the cleaning liquid, or the cleaning may be stopped.

According to various embodiments, the cart 500 may be configured to wash the escalator handrails 270 that rotate in opposite directions. In that circumstance, the second cleaning element 568(2) comprises immersion in the cleaning liquid, while the first cleaning element 568(1) absorbs at least a portion of the cleaning liquid and the escalator handrail 270. Includes an absorbent pad for cleaning and/or disinfecting the escalator handrail 270 by removing dirt, dirt, and/or other debris. The cleaning elements 568 may be the same or each may include an absorbent pad. The difference in operation is that one may be submerged in the wash liquor while the other is initially dry and used to regain at least some wash liquor.

FIG. 25 is a side view around the system shown in FIG. While positioning the cleaning element 568 relative to the escalator handrail 270, the mounting assembly 566 can be raised and lowered by moving the yoke 564 relative to the post 560. As shown in FIG. 25, the mounting assembly 566 can be rotated relative to the yoke 564 to position the cleaning element 568 in place on the escalator handrail 270. The system can self-adjust to reposition cart components (eg, mounting assembly 566, rotation of post 560, movement of cart 500 through wheels 571, etc.), which allows for cleaning operations during a cleaning operation. First, the cleaning element 568 is engaged in the correct position on the escalator handrail 270. In various embodiments, the clearance created by the interaction between the mounting assembly 566 and the yoke 564 is a gauge that can be used to determine if the cleaning element 568 is in place on the escalator handrail 270. 590 can be created. The position of the gap, as seen by gauge 590, may indicate in which direction, if any, the operator should rotate mounting assembly 566 relative to yoke 564 (eg, clockwise, counterclockwise). it can.

FIG. 26 is an isometric view of the system configured in the stowed position within the cart 500 with the cart door in the open position. To move from the wash position shown in FIG. 25 to the stowed position, the post 560 can be rotated to position the wash element 568 over the base 570, and perhaps near the center of the base 570. The yoke 564 can be moved along the post 560 to a lower position towards the base 570, thus lowering the height of the yoke 564. Door 530 is shown in the open position.

FIG. 27 is a rear isometric view of the system configured with the cart door 530 in the stowed position and the cart door 530 in the closed position. The door may be placed in a closed position during transport of the cart 500. The door may include a coupling mechanism that engages another door, the base, and/or a corresponding coupling mechanism to secure the door in the closed position.

FIG. 28 is an isometric view of a system for cleaning the escalator handrail in the maintenance position. To move from the cleaning position shown in FIG. 25 to the maintenance position, the mounting assembly 566 can be rotated to position the cleaning element 568 over the yoke 564. Use of the cleaning element 568 positioned above the yoke 564 to inspect the cleaning element, apply pads to one or more of the cleaning elements 568, apply cleaning liquid to one or more of the cleaning elements 568, etc. The person can easily use the cleaning element.

FIG. 29 is a side view of an exemplary subassembly 502 of the system including post 560, yoke 564, mounting bracket 566, and cleaning element 568. Subassembly 502 may be removable from base 570 of cart 500 shown in FIG. Sub-assembly 502 can be configured to attach to different platforms, including fixed and/or mobile platforms. The sub-assembly 502 is shown in a maintenance position, but can be moved to a cleaning position, a storage position, or an intermediate position.

The cleaning element 568 is shown in FIG. 29 with the pad 569. The pad 569 can be formed of a cleaning material, such as microfiber, that can efficiently remove dust, debris, and other foreign matter from the escalator handrail. The pad 569 may include a foam core, such as a sponge material that absorbs cleaning fluid. The foam core may be sandwiched between layers of material, for example microfibers. The pad 569 may be secured to the cleaning element using a coupler and/or by mating the pad over at least a portion of the cleaning element. For example, the pad 569 can be formed of a material having elastic properties that can be stretched across the cleaning element to create a friction fit. Pads 569 may be secured by other means, such as hook and loop type couplers, snaps, "c" shaped spring clips.

In various embodiments, the yoke 564 can include a coupling device 563 that selectively engages the post 560 to limit movement of the yoke 564 relative to the post 560. In some embodiments, the coupling device 563 is a spring loaded pin that engages one of the plurality of openings located in the post 560. To move the yoke 564 relative to the post 560, the operator operates the coupling device 563 to disengage the pin from the opening and allow movement of the yoke 564. Other coupling mechanism designs may be used to achieve equivalent movement and height adjustment.

FIG. 30 is an exploded isometric view of an exemplary subassembly of the system. The exploded view shows various coupler devices that may be used to connect the various components of the system and to allow rotational movement between the components. The first coupling mechanism 565 can couple the mounting assembly 566 to the yoke 564. The first coupling mechanism 565 can be a pin, which can rotate the mounting assembly 566 about the longitudinal axis of the pin. The second coupling mechanism 567 can couple the cleaning element 568 to the mounting assembly 566. The second coupling mechanism 567 can be a pin, which can rotate the cleaning element 568 about the longitudinal axis of the pin.

The profile of the lateral plates of the mounting assembly 566 can limit the movement (eg, rotation) of the mounting assembly relative to the yoke 564 and/or the movement (eg, rotation) of each cleaning element 568 relative to the mounting assembly 566. Can be restricted. For example, the tab near the mounting position of the cleaning element 568 of the mounting assembly 566 engages the cleaning element 568 to prevent its rotation, eg, rotation caused by movement of the escalator handrails through the cleaning element during a cleaning operation. Can be restricted.

31 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a cleaning element 568 for a system for cleaning handrails. In some embodiments, the cleaning element 568 may be partially or substantially formed of flexible foam. The cleaning element can be formed from any flexible material such as plastic, foam, or any number of composite materials. In other embodiments, the flexible foam may be composed of non-reactive or substantially inert materials such as silicone, silicone rubber, Teflon and the like. The primary function of the flexible foam is to provide a particular contoured shape 702 of the cleaning element 568. Thereby, while still flexible enough to be placed on or removed from the balustrade without damaging the balustrade or foam, the element remains substantially flush with the surface and sides of the balustrade exposed to human use. It will be possible to cover them at least partially. The outer shape 702 may resemble the shape of a "C". The flexible foam will come into contact with at least one cleaning liquid, many of which contain at least one corrosive or chemical polishing component. Flexible foams are also likely to come in contact with brightener, wax, and handrail materials. As such, the material properties of the flexible foam can become relevant to a particular application. Thus, many flexible materials can function without changing either the primary or secondary functions of the flexible foam, and can be modified as needed for a particular application.

The cleaning element 568 can include a mounting component 704, which is configured to be coupled to the mounting assembly 566 shown in FIG. 23, and/or with the handle described below and shown in FIG. It is configured to be coupled to a similar handle. The attachment component 704 can be cylindrically shaped and can include a pin opening 706 through or near the longitudinal axis of the attachment component 704. The pin opening 706 can receive the second connecting mechanism 567 shown in FIG. Attachment component 704 may include a ball joint cavity 708, which may be configured to receive a corresponding ball joint component. A corresponding ball joint component may be connected to the handle and may allow an operator to manually use the cleaning element by gripping the handle. Exemplary handle and ball joint components are shown in FIGS. 41-43.

The cleaning element 568 can include various recesses, cavities, and/or other connection mechanisms to allow devices, materials, and/or other objects to be connected to the cleaning element. The cleaning element 568 can include a plurality of clip recesses 710 that can be engaged by spring clips such as "C" shaped clips. Cleaning element 568 can include a plurality of pad couplers 712, which can be coupled to a pad (eg, pad 569 shown in FIG. 30) to secure the pad to the cleaning element. Pad coupler 712 may use a hook-and-look type coupler to couple to the pad. The pad coupler can engage the cleaning element 568 through the pad coupler opening 714.

32 is an isometric view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 31, including pad 569. The pad (also referred to herein as "cloth") can be formed from at least a portion of microfiber, cotton, terry cloth, or any number of standard cleaning cloth materials. Microfibers are ideal for retaining water and for collecting and retaining debris. In this application, the pad 569 can be used both to hold the cleaning fluid and to capture any debris removed during the cleaning process, for which microfibers are particularly well suited. ..

The pad 569 is coplanar with the inner portion 716 of the cleaning element 568 and may be designed to cover most or all of the inner portion 716 and possibly other portions of the cleaning element 568. In doing so, the pad 569 may be capable of being coupled to the cleaning element 568 in any way that does not interfere with the function of the pad 569. One solution is to create a pocket in the pad that can be connected to the cleaning element 568. In some embodiments, the pad 569 is stretched over a portion of the cleaning element that is at least partially inserted into the pocket(s) to allow the foam to project to access the coupling mechanism and attachment component 704. Leave a spot at the top for In some embodiments, the pad 569 is retained on the cleaning element 568 by a strap 718 that connects to the pad coupler 712, such as by a hook and loop type coupler. In various embodiments, the pad 569 can be elastic enough to maintain its position at or over a portion of the cleaning element 568 without the use of the strap 718. In other embodiments, the strap 718 may connect directly to the pad 569.

33 is a front view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 31, including the pad 569. The side-to-side contour of the cleaning element 568 is designed to fit snugly over or partially over the top and sides of the handrail, and the pad 569 provides a surface of the handle that may be touched by humans. Allows you to touch. The outer shape 702 of the cleaning element is a large break in a standard handrail that includes both mobile handrails (eg, those of an escalator) and fixed or stationary handrails (eg, stairs, balconies, decks of sea vessels, etc.) It is "C" shaped to cover the area.

34 is a side view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 31 including a pad. This is a non-limiting example, where the body of the cleaning element 568 includes a slightly curved longitudinal profile 720. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the system for cleaning the escalator handrails can be located at the end of the escalator where the handrails begin to exit the floor and travel the length of the escalator. The slightly curved longitudinal profile 720 allows the cleaning element 568 to maintain contact with the ends of the main pillars of the handrail for a little longer, providing better cleaning and friction points between the handrail and the cleaning element. It can result in a reduction, which can ultimately reduce system wear. However, in other embodiments, the longitudinal profile is substantially straight, allowing the system to be used on moving walkways or other parts of escalators when the railings have little or no curvature. To

FIG. 35 is an isometric view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 31, including one or more retention clips 722. Retaining clip 722 may be a “C” shaped spring clip that engages clip recess 710 to connect retaining clip(s) 722 to the cleaning element. The retaining clip 722 allows the foam cleaning element to retain a particular shape (eg, a "C" shape) to match the contour of the handrail, thus allowing the pad to contact the handrail during the cleaning operation. be able to. The retaining clip can flex (eg, bend outward) as the cleaning element is inserted over the handrail. In some embodiments, the retaining clip can serve other and/or additional purposes, such as securing the pad 569 to a cleaning element.

FIG. 36 is a schematic view showing a retaining clip that engages a cleaning element. The ends of the retaining clip 722 are at least partially inserted into the clip recess 710 to secure the retaining clip 722 to the cleaning element. Retaining clips can be selectively removed for a variety of reasons, including allowing cleaning of handrails having a diameter greater than that of retaining clips 722 (possibly even when deflected outwardly).

37 is a front view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 36, showing exemplary ranges of cleaning element deflection for insertion into and/or to accommodate different cross-sectional shapes of different handrails. The contour of the cleaning element may be shaped as the first contour 724 even in the absence of external forces. The cleaning element may extend outwardly to the second contour 726 and/or the third contour 728 depending on the diameter of the handrail. The form of the cleaning element and the retaining clip may retain the shape of the cleaning element and may revert to the first contour 724 without engagement with the handrail.

38 is a cross-sectional isometric view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 39 is a front cross-sectional view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 38 and 29 show clip recess 710 and inner surface 716.

40 is a front view of the cleaning element shown in FIG. 39 without the retaining clip 722 (shown in FIG. 35) to accommodate insertion onto handrails and/or different cross-sectional profiles of different handrails. 3 shows an exemplary deflection range for the cleaning element of FIG. The contour of the cleaning element may be shaped like the first contour 724, even in the absence of external forces. The cleaning element may be extended outwardly to the fourth contour 730, depending on the diameter of the handrail, in the absence of the retaining clip 722. However, if the retaining clip is fixed in the clip recess (as shown in FIG. 37), the fourth profile 730 cannot be achieved due to the force exerted by the retaining clip 722 on the cleaning element 568. There are cases. The fourth contour has a larger diameter than the third contour 728 shown in FIG. The shape of the cleaning element 568 may retain the shape of the cleaning element and may return to the first contour 724 without engagement with the handrail.

41 is an isometric view of yet another embodiment of a system for cleaning a handrail. FIG. 41 shows a handle assembly 800 configured to selectively couple to the cleaning element 900. The cleaning element 900 can be the same or similar to the cleaning element 568 shown in FIG. However, the cleaning element 900 may be different and may include a smaller diameter than the cleaning element 568, for example, to accommodate cleaning of fixed handrails having a smaller diameter than standard escalator handrails. it can. For example, the cleaning element 900 may be designed to clean handrails having a cross-sectional diameter of less than 2 inches (less than about 50 millimeters).

The handle assembly 800 may include a handle 802 that is gripped by a human operator during a wash operation. The handle 802 may be coupled to the shaft 804 at a first end of the shaft 804. The second end of shaft 804 may be coupled to ball joint 806. The coupling mechanism 808 can be coupled at a position along the shaft between the first end and the second end.

The cleaning element 900 may include a body 902 that engages the handrail during a cleaning operation. The cleaning element 900 may include any of the features and/or characteristics described above with respect to the cleaning element 568 shown in FIG. The cleaning element 900 may include a socket joint 904 for receiving a ball joint 806. The cleaning element 900 can include a mounting component 906 for coupling to the coupling mechanism 808. The mounting components 906 can have a profile that is complementary to the profile of the coupling mechanism 808 and can be clipped or snap fit together, for example. The cleaning element 900 may include a pad coupler 908, which may be configured to secure the pad to the cleaning element. The pad may be similar or identical to the pad 569 shown in FIG.

The handle assembly 800 includes the cleaning shown in FIG. 31, such as by engaging a corresponding coupling mechanism of the cleaning element 568 to secure the ball to a corresponding socket (eg, ball joint cavity 708 shown in FIG. 31). It may be configured to couple to element 568.

42 is an isometric view of a cross section of the cleaning element 900 shown in FIG. The cross-sectional view shows an illustration of socket joint 904 and exemplary positioning of pad coupler 908.

43 is an isometric view of the system shown in FIG. 41 and including a pad coupler 908 configured to secure the pad to the cleaning element 900.

During operation of the assembled handle 800 assembly and cleaning element 900, a human user moves the cleaning element across the handrail so as to clean the handrail while the ball joint 806 is moving relative to the socket joint 904. And allows the operator to comfortably move the cleaning element from a wide range of angles. The shaft 804 allows the operator to reach a distance that engages the cleaning element 900 with the handrail, which may be several inches or feet away from a human operator, such as above the operator.

While particular aspects of the subject matter described in this specification have been shown and described, changes and modifications can be made based on the teachings herein without departing from the subject matter described herein and its broader aspects. It is, therefore, intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. Will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, it is to be understood that this disclosure is defined by the appended claims. Generally, the terms used in this specification, and particularly in the appended claims (eg, the text of the appended claims), are generally intended as “open” terms (eg, “including”). The term "comprising" should be construed as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be construed as "having at least," and the term "includes." It should be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that "including but not limited to" should be construed). Where a particular number of introduced claims is intended to be enumerated, such intent is expressly recited in the claims, and without such an enumeration there is no such intent. , Will be further understood by those skilled in the art. For example, the following appended claims may include the use of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce the recitations of the claims as an aid to understanding. However, the use of such phrases is such that the claim includes the introductory phrase "one or more" or "at least one" or an indefinite article such as "a" or "an" (eg, "A" and/or "an" should normally be construed to mean "at least one" or "one or more"), even when the indefinite article "a" or "an" Introduction is not to be construed to mean that any particular claim, including any such recited list of claims, is limited to a disclosure containing only one such listing. The same applies to the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. Furthermore, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that, although a certain number of introduced claim recitations are explicitly set forth, such recitations should generally be construed to mean at least an enumerated number. (For example, a direct listing of "the enumeration of 2" without other modifiers usually means at least two enumerations, or more than one enumeration). Moreover, where rules similar to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” are used in those examples, such configurations generally mean that one of ordinary skill in the art would understand the rules. (Eg, “a system having at least one of A, B, and C”) means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and (Including but not limited to systems having C together and/or A, B and C together, etc.).

While the preferred and alternative embodiments of the disclosure have been illustrated and described, as noted above, many changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited by the disclosure of these preferred and alternative embodiments. Rather, the disclosure should be determined entirely by reference to the claims that follow.

Claims (16)

A movable cart,
A pillar extending from the movable cart,
A cleaning pad carriage configured to be removably attached to the post, the cleaning pad carriage including a mounting bracket and a pad configured to removably attach to the mounting bracket for cleaning a handrail. ,
Equipped with
The pad is
A first pad attachable to a first end of the mounting bracket;
A second pad removable at a second end of the mounting bracket;
Including
It said first pad and the second pad includes a maintenance position substantially aligned through the horizontal plane, in order to wash the handrail simultaneously, you move to the cleaning position substantially aligned through the vertical plane, handrail System for cleaning. The system for cleaning a handrail of claim 1, wherein the pad is further configured to wrap at least a portion of the handrail. The system for cleaning a handrail of claim 1, wherein the pad substantially conforms to the shape of the handrail. The system for cleaning handrails of claim 1, wherein the pad is pivotably attachable to the mounting bracket. The system for cleaning a handrail of claim 1, wherein the pad is further configured to slide in and out of the handrail at an end of the handrail . A base support structure,
A pillar arranged in a front portion of the base support structure;
At least one pad for cleaning the handrail vertically supported at a position above the base support structure along the pillar;
Equipped with
The upper position of the base support structure is a first position,
The at least one pad is
A first pad supported in the first position;
A second pad supported at a second position which is different from the first position in the vertical direction;
Including
A maintenance position in which the first pad and the second pad are substantially aligned through a horizontal plane, and at the same time, a cleaning position in which the first pad and the second pad are arranged to be substantially aligned along a vertical plane for cleaning the handrail. move to a system for cleaning the handrail. When the first pad and the second pad are in a state of being cleaned by the system, the first pad supplies a liquid cleaning agent to the handrail, and the second pad remains on the handrail. 7. The system for cleaning a handrail of claim 6 , wherein the system is arranged to function to dry the liquid cleaning agent. 7. The system for cleaning a handrail of claim 6 , wherein the at least one pad further comprises a mounting bracket that is attachable, the mounting bracket including an upper mount and a lower mount. 9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the at least one pad comprises a first pad located on the lower mount of the mounting bracket and a second pad located on the upper mount of the mounting bracket. A system for cleaning handrails. Pillars,
A mounting bracket having an upper mount and a lower mount connected to the pillar;
A first pad disposed on the lower mount,
A second pad disposed on the upper mount,
Equipped with
The first pad and the second pad are formed so as to correspond to the shape of the handrail of the escalator ,
A maintenance position in which the first pad and the second pad are substantially aligned through a horizontal plane, and at the same time, a cleaning position in which the first pad and the second pad are arranged to be substantially aligned along a vertical plane for cleaning the handrail. move to a system for cleaning the handrail. A support to which the pillar is attached so as to be fixed;
A plurality of wheels attached to the support to facilitate movement of the column;
Further comprising a system for cleaning a handrail according to claim 1 0. The system for cleaning a handrail of claim 1, wherein the mounting bracket is pivotally mountable to the post via a yoke. The system for cleaning a handrail of claim 1, wherein the position of the yoke along the post is adjustable. The system for cleaning handrails of claim 1, further comprising one or more doors pivotally mounted to the moveable cart. The position of the mounting bracket is adjustable along the length of said post, a system for cleaning a handrail according to claim 1 0. Orientation of the mounting bracket, the first position extending from the support, is adjustable between a second position extending over said support, for cleaning the handrail of claim 1 1 System.