WO2023000030A1

WO2023000030A1 - Improved commercial cleaning apparatus and management system

Info

Publication number: WO2023000030A1
Application number: PCT/AU2022/050769
Authority: WO
Inventors: Innocenza Pilon
Original assignee: Pilontek Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2021-07-19
Filing date: 2022-07-19
Publication date: 2023-01-26

Abstract

The invention provides an improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating services, including a body including a cleaning end, with a cleaning means. A power source is provided and the apparatus is operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces. A locating means is included, associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus, so as used the location and nature of the use is recorded through use of the locating means. The invention also provides variants thereon and methods of use.

Description

IMPROVED COMMERCIAL CLEANING APPARATUS AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to improved commercial cleaning apparatus, and in particular to improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating means and management system. [0002] The invention is subject of Australian provisional patent application number 2021902214 lodged 19 July 2021, and Australian provisional patent application 2021902699, lodged 24 August 2021, the contents of both being incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Commercial cleaning is a specialist service, and requires quite different equipment, management and capabilities than a vacuum cleaner to be used domestically. For some commercial cleaning machines they will be taken from cleaning job to cleaning job and will be operated for many hours in a day. For cleaning of office buildings very large areas may need to be cleaned, necessitating that the vacuum cleaner be operated for an extended period without stopping. To clean efficiently, the vacuum cleaner needs to be easy to move so as to be able to be moved over the whole floor, and to get around objects and into all the corners. The cleaning job will not be considered to be well done unless the floor can be cleaned efficiently. [0004] Powered vacuums must be plugged in and can only be used to the extent of the length of the lead, and then must be unplugged, and plugged into a new socket, to enable cleaning of a new area. Cordless apparatus is preferable, as without being tied to a lead and plugged socket, the cleaning movement is freer and easier. Cordless and handheld small vacuum devices are known in domestic applications, however the short battery time of these is completely unsuitable for the longer times needed for commercial cleaning. [0005] Backpack style vacuum cleaners are known commercially, as these can be easily carried on the back and used for short time periods, but do not provide the desired cleaning functionality. Therefore, there has long been a want for a cordless commercial cleaner, that can very easily be used to clean all areas of a floor, be used for extended periods of time as required for commercial applications, and have sufficient power and functionality to provide quality cleaning. [0006] Often a commercial cleaning service will have lots of vacuum cleaners, for use by a team of workers. The workers may transport the cleaning apparatus with them, or the machine may remain at a particular office or work place instead. It is difficult to keep track of all these many vacuum or other cleaning machines, and current systems rely on the memory of the supervisor of where a particular machine is being kept currently, and possibly a spreadsheet and list of machine numbers to keep track of the machine. These existing systems, are extremely prone to error and inaccuracy as in reality it is most difficult to know where a machine is, and only on a physical check can it really be verified the particular machine is at a location and the state of repair. It may be that only an annual physical audit is carried out and so a missing or damaged machine may not be reported to management for some time after the event occurs. Even if regular checks are made to a commercial cleaning machine the actual length of time it has been used will not be known, only a rough idea may be worked out, and certainly not with the detail of the kinds of use, full power, low power, stop start or continuous use for prolonged periods. Each of these kinds of use make a difference to the wear and tear to a machine, which cannot be seen visibly. Therefore, if this data could be accurately captured and recorded the manager could, through the management system, track and anticipate the need to replace spare parts, when a machine may need to be retired or if a full service is needed earlier than a traditional schedule, for example. The on-going cost of each machine can be tracked, the spare parts installed and the warranty state, so that business decisions can be made about the number of machines to purchase to service a particular kind or size of business cleaning job, as an example. [0007] At present cleaning machines may be swapped with another machine without the knowledge of management, and so this machine may be experiencing more or less use than expected. There are numerous parts of a vacuum cleaner that may need maintenance or periodic replacement, such as emptying or replacing a bag or container for the dirt, filters or rollers, bristles or brushes. Where a hand-held cordless machine is used the batteries may need charging for every use and will then need a new battery to replace a worn-out battery periodically. For all of these service actions it is essential to a well organised cleaning company that the cleaning machines are working, and working well at all times. If a machine is found to be faulty or in need of maintenance during the working day, time may be lost and the cleaning not able to be carried out. If management do not know the use made to a particular machine as its locations have not been tracked and records not kept it will be very difficult to know if it is due a service or about to breakdown without actually conducting a full service, which leads to downtime. To avoid this situation it would be useful to keep track of the time of use of each machine, as accurately as possible, and develop an accurate schedule to anticipate before parts need replacement, and order them and do so. Where this relies on a simple spreadsheet, and accurate record keeping, human error is likely to be introduced and errors made, which is highly undesirable. Maintenance and replacement of the various parts may occur too early or too late if errors arise which in either way are costly to the company, and damage reputation. An operator may also be unaware of issues with a machine they pick up to use for many hours, until they start to use it, which is clearly undesirable. [0008] A commercial vacuum cleaner therefore needs to be extremely reliable and resilient to wear and tear, to withstand use for extended periods, and use far more frequently, perhaps all day everyday. This compares to the once or twice a week for perhaps 30 minutes that a domestic machine may be used, and then put away again. Domestic cleaning machines are designed for this regular short bursts of use, which are not to wearing on the user. Commercial machines may work for perhaps a 6 or 7 hour period without stopping and therefore the needs and requirements are very different. Current commercial apparatus have adapted somewhat from the original domestic machines, but still face significant problems. The machines can be heavy, or very uncomfortable to use the handle for more than an hour at a time. To work with a plugged in machine is inconvenient to travel the machine around a building, but may be required as battery operation has only a very short life for existing machines. Further, it is difficult to know exactly how much use a machine has had, the warranty and spare parts used, with on-going costs, unless detailed records are taken. In reality no such records are taken and it would not be possible to keep sufficient accuracy to the hours of operation and for what kinds (full motor, low power) were used and for how long during the use session. All of this data would be extremely useful to commercial operators so they can see the cost to date of keeping a machine operational, when a warranty may be expiring, and the actual use of a machine. In this way the machines may be monitored, serviced and the maximum efficient use obtained. Lightly used machines may be rotated to a heavy use location, for example, or a heavily used machine may be retired early when the costs of spare parts becomes prohibitive beyond the initial warranty period. All these considerations could dramatically reduce costs, and improve efficiency for commercial cleaning apparatus and enable a manager to remotely monitor and manage her entire fleet of cleaning apparatus, with ease and absolute accuracy. [0009] Therefore, there has long been a want for a real time tracking of particular vacuum cleaners to track where the machine is and what use has actually been made of that particular machine, the status, time of use and warranty. The inventor has developed a clever new commercial vacuum cleaner that is cordless, has a fully rotatable joint and has sufficient power to be used for the necessary prolonged periods of time for commercial cleaning. These improvements are sufficient in themselves, but further the inventor has introduced an IOT tracking and management system to track the particular location and use of a machine, for example, which office or level a machine is kept, and the length of time of use. Through use of the IOT tracking the location of a particular machine can be seen and what use of the machine is being made including the length of time operating and kind of use made. The accurate maintenance schedule is a dramatic improvement for a commercial cleaner as it enables the owner to plan maintenance better, around the cleaning schedule itself, and ensure that the parts for replacement are available at an appropriate time. Use of the inventive management system linked through cloud computing allows a remote operator to check the location of a machine, say at Workplace 1, level 3, and the hours used since last maintenance, the type of use being made, the warranty as well as checking the spare parts already replaced and cost to date of the apparatus. [0010] Automated parts ordering can be included so that parts can be ordered and alerts generated in the system to alert head office through the website as to the action required. In this way the machines can be scheduled to be serviced at times outside of cleaning use, to keep the machine in good order and operational when needed for cleaning. Use of magnetic attachments enables easy off and on for each part to prevent damage to parts on installation or maintenance. Each magnetic spare parts installation enables an operator to be take the spare part and replace as instructed by management at the start of the cleaning session to avoid the machine breaking down, leading to interruption and time delays. Instead the management system enables anticipation and prevention of these issues through careful monitoring. Each of these inventive aspects is strong in its own right, but in combination the inventor has developed a significant improvement for commercial cleaning apparatus management. [0011] It would be most useful to have real time tracking of where a particular machine is now, and where it has been used in the past for cleaning and the use made for management to keep working efficiently at all times. This will provide necessary information to the cleaning management that can dramatically improve the organisation and running of the cleaning system. [0012] The inventor is an industry expert and has invented, through careful research and development, a new form of commercial cleaning apparatus that has a long battery life, a rotatably joint for easy use, and uses location services to track use for maintenance. There are numerous further advantages in the clever, energy efficient design, with ergonomic features and stylish durable magnetic part attachments. A cleaning manager can, through use of the invention, readily log into the Cloud management and see exactly where all the units are and at the same time track their hours of use for a real time maintenance schedule. Each of these features provides very useful new features, not at present offered by any similar commercial cleaner. We anticipate that once known about the invention will be adopted in the industry as the gold standard of machine tracking and maintenance scheduling. [0013] The following describes a non-limiting example of the invention being used with reference to the invention being used for a vacuum cleaner for commercial use as a most useful application of the invention. The invention may be useful for other cleaning equipment or similar equipment, not necessarily vacuum cleaning, and it is not intended to limit the use of the invention to particular apparatus other than as limited in the claims. [0014] For clarity, any prior art referred to herein, does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge, in Australia or elsewhere. [0015] It is an object of the present invention to provide improved commercial cleaning apparatus that at least ameliorates one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art. It is a further and separate object of the present invention to provide a method of use of improved cleaning apparatus that at least ameliorates one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art. It is another further and separate object of the present invention to provide a management system of improved cleaning apparatus that at least ameliorates one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION [0016] Accordingly, the present invention provides in one aspect an improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating services, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a cleaning end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source and operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the location and nature of the use is recorded through use of the locating means. [0017] Accordingly, the present invention provides in a second aspect an improved commercial cleaning apparatus with extended power, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a cleaning end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; a power source including multiple power units whereby 3 or more power units can be removably installed, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the location and nature of the use and extended use time is achieved through use of the multiple power units that may be readily exchanged as needed. [0018] Preferably, the design has only a short distance between the motor and the power source and efficient suction to enable reduced power consumption. [0019] Accordingly, the invention provides in a variant, an improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating services, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a cleaning end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source and operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the location and nature of the use is recorded through use of the locating means. [0020] Preferably, one or more portable power unit provide the power source. Preferably, a plurality of swappable power units provide the power source. It may be that there are 2, 4 or 6 power units, to provide the power source, so that portable power can be provided to the improved commercial apparatus for an extended period by swapping the power units. Any number of swappable power units may be provided. Preferably, each power unit provides a particular time of cleaning. In this way the known time of cleaning is measurable, and this can assist the tracking of the maintenance schedule. [0021] Preferably, a long handle is included and the body is configured to be pushed over the surface by use of the long handle. Preferably, a handle is included and operation is through use of controls on the handle. Preferably, the handle is ergonomically designed to enable use for long periods comfortably. Preferably, the handle is on the end of a wand with the cleaning apparatus at the other end, and the controls conveniently mounted. Most preferably, the commercial cleaning apparatus is a fully portable vacuum cleaner, including a portable power source. [0022] Preferably, the locating means enables the geographical location of the apparatus to be known, remotely. Preferably, the locating means enables communication of data via wireless networks, from the apparatus, the data being accessible likewise through the cloud or wireless networks. Preferably, the data includes the length of time operational, in order that the power unit charge, and maintenance schedule requirements can be monitored remotely through a remote management system. [0023] Preferably, a management system is included, including access to the Cloud data so that the cleaning apparatus may be monitored remotely. Preferably, the locating means is a geographical beacon locator. Preferably, an internet of things (“IOT”) unit is included to enable wireless communication between the apparatus and a management system with access via wireless networks or the Cloud. Preferably, the IOT unit monitors any one or more of the following features: geographical location of the apparatus; if the apparatus is operational; if the apparatus is running; run time; kind of operation the apparatus is undertaking; and a combination thereof. Preferably, the data can be accessed through a remote website or similar to enable management of the apparatus. [0024] Most preferably, a maintenance schedule can be based around the real use of the machine and actual use data provided from the IOT unit through the wireless networks. Preferably, when a particular apparatus has been used for a length of time and needs servicing, this can be recognised by the management system, and through the locating means the particular cleaning apparatus to be serviced can be readily located geographically, for example, at which office or building the apparatus is stored, so the apparatus can be found readily, serviced and parts replaced to act against potential apparatus failure. [0025] Preferably, the apparatus requires spare parts and the spare parts are replaced accordingly to a schedule according to the length of time of actual use as reported from the IOT unit through wireless networks to the management system. Preferably, the spare parts are automatically ordered or flagged for ordering when the recommended maximum use time is approaching, through use of the IOT unit and management system. Preferably, the spare parts replaced, cost, warranty and current status can be monitored through use of the management system. [0026] Preferably, a swivel joint is included between a handle part and the cleaning end of the apparatus, so that a user can drive the cleaning end in any desired direction on the surface for efficient cleaning. [0027] Preferably, one or more magnetic attachments are used for parts of the apparatus, to enable ready replacement. Preferably, the magnetic attachments are used for replaceable parts of the apparatus whereby spare parts may be readily replaced through use of the magnetic attachments. Magnetic attachments means that a person can easily replace and correctly replace spare parts without special training, a further advantage. The magnets are convention magnets with reciprocating parts which hold in place in normal use but the magnetic hold can be caused to release by pulling or sliding apart. Quick and easy release and install magnetic parts can be used for all the regularly replaced spare parts. [0028] Accordingly, the invention also provides in a variant, an improved commercial cleaning apparatus with a swivel joint, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a cleaning end and a handle end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source and operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; and a swivel joint between the cleaning end and the handle end, enabling swivelling of the cleaning end and associated cleaning means in substantially 180 degrees, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the change of direction of cleaning is readily possible due to the swivel joint. [0029] Accordingly, the invention also provides in a further variant, an improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating services, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a handle end and a cleaning end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source with multiple swappable power units, and the cleaning means is operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus; replaceable spare parts for service maintenance, replaceable through use of a magnetic connections, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the location and nature of the use is recorded through use of the locating means, and when maintenance is noted by the management system, the machine and location are identified, and the required spare parts can be readily removed and replaced through use of the magnetic connections, and the long power life and easy manoeuvrability of the apparatus are suitable for commercial cleaning applications. [0030] Accordingly, the invention also provides in another variant, an improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating services, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including an elongated wand handle end with apparatus controls at one end, and a cleaning end at the other; a cleaning means for cleaning floors including one or more brushes, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source with multiple swappable power units able to provide many hours of use when used together, and the cleaning means is operable by the apparatus controls to provide cleaning of the floors; a swivel joint between the handle end and the cleaning end to enable substantially 180 degree rotation of the cleaning end through use of the handle for precision cleaning; and a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including length of time of use of the apparatus, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is fully portable and wireless, so it may be used in the usual manner, and has the benefits of the location and nature of the use of the apparatus being sent through use of the locating means to a remote management system whereby maintenance is schedule and if required spare parts may be exchanged through use of magnetic attachment means, and the long power life and easy manoeuvrability are suitable for commercial cleaning applications. [0031] Accordingly, the invention also provides in another further variant, an improved commercial cleaning apparatus with extended power, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a cleaning end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; a power source including multiple power units whereby 6 or more power units can be removably installed, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the location and nature of the use and extended use time of substantially 360 minutes is achieved through use of the multiple power units that may be readily exchanged as needed. [0032] Accordingly, the invention also provides in a method of use of improved commercial cleaning apparatus, the commercial cleaning apparatus including a body including a cleaning end, a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source and operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces, and a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus, the method including the following steps: a) identifying commercial cleaning apparatus and giving an identifier to each machine; b) Identifying cleaning locations and giving an identifier to different geographical locations eg Workplace 1, Factory 3; c) (Optionally) further identifying areas within each cleaning location eg floors of a building; d) Operation of the cleaning apparatus to clean surfaces; e) Operation of the locating unit to collect data about the use an identified cleaning apparatus and the cleaning location and wireless communication to a remote location; f) Remote access of the data sent by the locating unit, to enable monitoring and maintenance management, without the need to physically see the apparatus, wherein the exact location of a particular machine in need of maintenance and when and what needs to occur can be determined remotely and maintenance organised. [0033] Preferably, the method includes an initial set up step is included, to set up the identification and desired maintenance schedule for a particular apparatus. Preferably, a storage location step is included in the method. Warranty status information may be included at an initial step. Warranty status may be tracked through use of the apparatus and or method. For example, where a warranty is close to expiration, this may be highlighted to the system, or otherwise as required by the particular user. Preferably, the warranty status of each individual unit is monitored through use of the management system. [0034] Most preferably, in use of the method the spare parts are removed and replaced through use of magnetic attachment. Use of magnetic spare parts removal is particularly useful for ready replacement. The ready replacement may be while in use by an operator on a shift for example. Or the ready replacement of the spare parts may be at any time including on regular maintenance, at the start or end of a shift as required. [0035] The management system may communicate in any suitable way to the operator. The operator may be in communication with the management system, in some forms of the invention in order to track and monitor the apparatus. [0036] Preferably, the apparatus of the method is the apparatus in any of its forms or variants of the invention. [0037] Preferably, there are a plurality of power units. Preferably, there are a plurality of swappable power units. Preferably, there are 2, 4 or 6 power units. Most preferably, 6 battery or power units are included. Most preferably, 6 battery or power units are used to provide 6 to 7 hours or more of use. Preferably, some power units may be used and some be charging to swap if required. A battery charger may be included to charge 1 or more power unit. The battery charger may be used to charge 2, 4 or 6 power units at a time for example. Each battery unit may provide a particular time of cleaning. Preferably, each power unit provides substantially 60 minutes of cleaning. Preferably, there are 6 power units each providing substantially 60 minutes of cleaning to enable cleaning to be carried out for substantially 360 minutes. [0038] Preferably, each battery unit provides substantially 75 minutes of cleaning. Other arrangements may be used instead. For example, to enable cleaning for substantially 90 minutes. Other times such as 60 minutes per unit are also convenient, and multiple units used for the desired use time. [0039] Preferably, the power source includes 6 or more swappable power units to enable cleaning for an extended period of time. Any number of swappable power units may be included. Preferably, the swappable power units enable an extended cleaning period. Preferably, a suitable number of swappable power units are provided to enable different time periods of cleaning. Preferably, cleaning can be carried out for substantially 150 minutes through use of multiple power units, and an extend time period can be achieved through swapping one or more of the power units. Preferably, 2 power units are used at a time to provide 150 minutes or more cleaning time without the need to recharge or swap power units, in one form of the invention, or 6 and 360 minutes in another form of the invention. [0040] Preferably, a bank of power units is provided that are readily swappable during use to extend the length of use of the apparatus. Preferably, a plurality of power units are installed initially to enable an extended time of cordless use of the cleaning apparatus, a significant advance over the prior art. Most preferably, multiple power units, for example 6, are provided to the user so that the apparatus can be used for more than 6 hours continuously without the need for further power units, a significant advantage over the prior art. [0041] Accordingly, the present invention provides an improved commercial cleaning apparatus with a swivel joint, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a cleaning end and a handle end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source and operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; and a swivel joint between the cleaning end and the handle end, enabling swivelling of the cleaning end and associated cleaning means in substantially 180 degrees, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the change of direction of cleaning is readily possible due to the swivel joint. [0042] Preferably, a handle is included and the body is configured to be pushed over the surface by use of the handle. Preferably, operation may be through use of controls on the handle. Preferably, the handle is ergonomic. Preferably, the handle is designed to be suitable for long term use. Preferably, the shaping of the handle is designed to allowed comfortable use for prolonged use. [0043] Preferably, the commercial cleaning apparatus is a portable vacuum cleaner. The commercial cleaning apparatus may be any suitable portable cleaning apparatus. Preferably, the commercial cleaning apparatus is an upright vacuum cleaner operable at a handle end with surface cleaning occurring at the cleaning end. Preferably, the apparatus is designed to stand upright when not in use. Preferably, the handle of the apparatus is designed to clip or lock into place, so as to be maintained in the upright position when not in use. Single directional clips or locks may be used to enable the apparatus to be positioned upright when not in use, ready to be used again at another time. [0044] Preferably, the body is made of a suitable plastics material. Any suitable material may be used. It is intended that the apparatus be made of renewable and or environmentally friendly materials as much as possible. Renewable materials are preferred for use in the apparatus where possible. [0045] Preferably, the cleaning means includes one or more brushes. Preferably, the cleaning means includes one or more rollers. [0046] Preferably, the locating means enables the geographical location the apparatus to be known remotely. Preferably, the locating means enables communicates data via wireless networks to be accessible in the Cloud. Preferably, the data includes the length of time operational. Preferably, a management system is included, including access to the Cloud data so that the cleaning apparatus may be monitored remotely. [0047] Preferably, the locating means is a geographical beacon locator. Preferably, an internet of things IOT unit is included to enable wireless communication. Preferably, the IOT unit monitors any one or more of the following features: location; run time; kind of operation; and a combination thereof. Any suitable data may be captured by the IOT unit and communicated remotely. Preferably, the data can then be accessed through a remote website or similar. Access to warranty may be similar. Preferably, a maintenance schedule can be based around the real use of the apparatus and actual use data, and the machine that needs servicing be readily located geographically eg at which office or building the machine can be found so the parts can be installed. [0048] Preferably, a swivel joint is included between a handle part and the cleaning end so that a user can drive the cleaning end in any desired direction on the surface for efficient cleaning. [0049] Preferably, the apparatus requires spare parts and the spare parts are replaced accordingly to a schedule according to the length of time of actual use. Preferably, the parts are automatically ordered or flagged for ordering when the recommended maximum use time is approaching, through use of the IOT system. [0050] Another advantage of the invention is the use of magnetic attachments for parts to enable ready replacement. Breakage of clips and connections is a significant problem leading to the need to replace parts that do not fit rather than are otherwise worn out. Use of reciprocating magnetic attaching parts is particularly useful in this multifaceted invention. [0051] Preferably the location includes the particular building where cleaning is to take place. Preferably, the location in the building such as floor or area is included and can be tracked by the management system. Preferably, the location includes identifying the apparatus being used and the location where used, to assist in management of wear and tear through use. Preferably, the location and management system together provide data chosen from the following group on a particular apparatus: identifier; age; time of use; kind of use; warranty; spare parts replaced; and expenditure to date. Preferably, the management system enables the manager to see the location and data available on all the apparatus at the same time. Preferably, the management system enable the manager to track usage and costs of the apparatus as well as other useful data such as warranty and spare parts schedule through use of the management system [0052] An improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating services and management system including: a body including an elongated wand with an ergonomic handle end, with apparatus controls at one end, and a cleaning end at the other; a cleaning means for cleaning floors including one or more brushes, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source with 6 or more multiple swappable power units able to provide substantially 360 minutes or more cleaning time by swapping the power units, and the cleaning means is operable by the apparatus controls to provide cleaning of the floors; a swivel joint between the handle end and the cleaning end to enable substantially 180 degree rotation of the cleaning end through use of the handle for precision cleaning; and a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including geographical location, building, level in building, length of time of use of the apparatus, kind of use of apparatus, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is fully portable and wireless, so it can be used in the usual manner, and has the benefits of the known location and nature of the use of the apparatus being sent through to a remote management system whereby maintenance is scheduled and if required spare parts exchanged through use of magnetic attachments, and the long power life and easy manoeuvrability are suitable for commercial cleaning applications. [0053] Accordingly, the present invention provides in a variant an improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating services, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a handle end and a cleaning end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source with multiple swappable power units, and the cleaning mean is operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; a swivel joint between the handle end and the cleaning end to enable substantially 180 degree rotation of the cleaning end through use of the handle; and a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the location and nature of the use is recorded through use of the locating means, and the long power life and easy manoeuvrability are suitable for commercial cleaning applications. [0054] Accordingly, the invention also provides a method of use of improved commercial cleaning apparatus, the commercial cleaning apparatus including a body including a cleaning end, a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source and operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces, and a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus, the method including the following steps: a) Identifying commercial cleaning apparatus and giving an identifier to each machine; b) Identifying cleaning locations and giving an identifier to different geographical locations eg Workplace 1, Factory 3; c) (Optionally) further identifying areas within each cleaning location eg floors of a building; d) Operation of the cleaning apparatus to clean surfaces; e) Operation of the locating unit to collect data about the use an identified cleaning apparatus and the cleaning location and wireless communication to a remote location; f) Remote access of the data sent by the locating unit, to enable monitoring and maintenance management, without the need to physically see the apparatus, wherein the exact location of a particular machine in need of maintenance and when and what needs to occur can be determined remotely and maintenance organised. [0055] An initial set up step may be included, to set up the identification and desired maintenance schedule for a particular machine. A storage location may be included. The apparatus of the method may the apparatus of the invention in any of its aspects or variants. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY [0056] The commercial cleaning apparatus may be manufactured industrially and supplied to wholesalers or retailers, or potentially to the end users direct. The commercial cleaning apparatus management system includes these industrially manufactured articles. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0057] The invention will now be described in connection with a non-limiting preferred embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [0058] Figure 1 is a perspective view from above of a head of a commercial vacuum cleaner according to a preferred embodiment of the invention with the IOT unit and wireless communication indicated, the remainder of the apparatus is omitted from Figure 1 for ease of illustration; [0059] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the part of the commercial vacuum cleaner head of Figure 1, the remainder of the apparatus being omitted for ease of illustration; [0060] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of another of the commercial vacuum cleaner of Figures 1 and 2 illustrating the battery unites and motor connector, the remainder of the apparatus being omitted for ease of illustration; [0061] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the commercial vacuum cleaner apparatus of Figures 1 to 3; [0062] Figure 5 is a detailed perspective of the handle, wand and swivel joint of the commercial vacuum cleaner apparatus of Figures 1 to 4; [0063] Figure 6 is a side schematic diagram of the swivel joint of the commercial cleaning apparatus of Figures 1 to 5, showing the attaching holes; [0064] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the neck base of the commercial cleaning apparatus of Figures 1 to 6; [0065] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the connector of the commercial cleaning apparatus of Figures 1 to 7; [0066] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the base of the commercial cleaning apparatus of Figures 1 to 8; [0067] Figure 10 is a schematic view from above of the base of the commercial cleaning apparatus of Figure 9; [0068] Figure 11 is a schematic view from the front of the base of the commercial cleaning apparatus of Figures 9 and 10; [0069] Figure 12 is a schematic view from the side of the base of the commercial cleaning apparatus of Figure 10; [0070] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the neck base of the commercial cleaning apparatus of Figures 1 to 10; [0071] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the swappable batteries of the commercial vacuum cleaner of Figures 1 to 13; [0072] Figure 15 is a block diagram of the electrical connections of the commercial vacuum cleaner of Figures 1 to 14; and [0073] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the whole commercial vacuum cleaner of Figures 1 to 15 illustrating the ergonomic handle and wand. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION INCLUDING A BEST MODE [0074] Referring to Figures 1 to 16, a preferred embodiment of the invention will be described, where commercial vacuum cleaner 1, includes vacuum motor 2, indicated generally but usually hidden within the base 3 (housing), rotary motor 5, at the front, again generally indicated and usually hidden within base 3 and Light Emitting Diode (“LED”) decorative light bar 7. Light bar 7 may be used to indicate operation, communication and the need for service, through different lights and symbols, as well as providing bright lights for cleaning. Light bar 7 can be adapted to communicate with the location and management system and provide information to the user. [0075] Handle 10, connected to wand 12, gives cleaning apparatus 1 its upright stance, which can be locked into place so as to stand unsupported. Important components shown include post motor filter 14, battery connector cover with case top 15 for quick exchange of multiple battery units 16, swivel joint 18, wheel 20 with wheel cover 22, wheel shaft 23, and wheel lock 24. Handle 10 is formed of a plastics material shaped to an ergonomic grip and padded with a softer plastics material to help use for a longer time period in comfort. This is important as commercial cleaning periods of use are generally much longer than domestically. Wand 12, is a somewhat conventional of steel post with an easy attachment in plastic in the usual manner. [0076] Post motor filter 14 has a magnetic cover to enable ready removal, and replacement through use of reciprocating magnetic parts (not shown). All the maintainable parts are fitted through use of reciprocating magnets (not shown) to allow each part to be easily removed with a pull in the correct direction without risk of damage, and likewise bias to be replaced correctly. These readily replaced magnetic attachments are easy to use with no special training and so on-site maintenance becomes easy, and efficient. Conventional attachments could also be used. [0077] Internet Of Things “IOT” unit 26 as shown is a customisable, IOT unit of a known form, namely ESP32 dev board with wireless network communication. IOT unit 26 is important to relay the key data for access remotely through the website to monitor status and interact therewith in the usual manner. Connection to a secure database accessible through Cloud computing enables the manager to access and monitor the data. At the front of cleaner 1 is front lip 28, formed of plastic in a low profile for reaching under furniture for example. Roller 30 is a standard roller used conventionally with a hard floor and carpet setting, but any suitable roller may be used instead. Roller motor 32 of generally indicated rotary motor 5 provides the power and is a high speed roller motor with gearbox with a high and low gear and timing belt, and bearing 33, to allow 3000rpm for better dust collection. Control of the speed and hence cleaning strength is through standard controls on the handle. [0078] Front cover 34, is shown such as in Figure 2 as well as gearbox top and bottom 35A and 35B and dustbin 36, washer 37, and spring 39 used for the roller arrangment. Dustbin 36 is formed of a plastics material, and is attached through use of reciprocating magnets (not shown) to enable ready replacement and installation as described elsewhere. Front cover 34 is also attached through reciprocating magnets (not shown) and has LED bar 7 which not only provides communication to the user, via the IOT and other onboard electronics, but also a bright light to light the cleaning area ahead of the user. The dustbin is sized to allow prolonged cleaning time before maintenance is required, useful for commercial environments. Filter 38 is a High Efficiency Particular Air (“HEPA”) filter and dustbin cover 40 also seen listed but on the left hand side of Figure 2. Dustbin cover 40 is likewise attached magnetically (magnets not shown) to enable easy attachment and release, as required for maintenance and to replace parts. [0079] Bolt 42 is used to hold in place roller motor 32 generally with roller driver 44 attached and in use surrounded by roller 30. Other forms may be used instead to drive the rollers and control these from the central controls on the wand. [0080] Connector 46 as shown in Figures 3 and 8 in particular is made of a plastics material and connects vacuum motor 2 to wand 12 and is covered by barrier 48 to prevent obstruction. Barrier connector 50 on the sides of battery units 16 for attachment together. [0081] Handle 10 is attached to wand 12, with wand parts 50, 52, 54, 56, and 58 as illustrated in Figure 5 in particular. Handle 10 is attached to wand 12 through use of the reciprocating wand parts 50, 52, 54, 56 and 58, the usual manner and features a plastic ergonomically shaped grip for the user to grab hold and direct wand 12 for extended cleaning. Wand 12 is a stainless steel tube to extend the reach of the user so they do not need to bend or stretch unnecessarily. Wand 12 with attached handle 10 is able to move in 180 degrees across the surface and allow efficient cleaning through use of aluminium swivel joint 18. [0082] It is useful to be able to use the cleaning head in 180 degrees rotation for a quality commercial clean, getting around office furniture, fixed articles and into all the corners. Neck base 60 and neck bolts 62 assist for the attachment to wand 12. Wheels 22 with wheel locks 24 are of a conventional form, with a rubber wheel about a metal axis to enable smooth operation over the surface. In other forms of the invention the wheels may be replaced by one or more ball bearing arrangement, in the centre of the rear of the base. The ball bearing form of wheels is useful to avoid the collection of hair or other fibres, which is undesirable. Battery area 66 and roller area 68 are conveniently defined for ease of construction, inspection and spare part replacement formed of a plastics material. [0083] Unique to a commercial cleaner used as a conventional cleaner an internet of things “IOT” unit is included positioned suitable to enable communication to wireless networks. In use a machine will include a unique identifier, and this is logged on a website and as the machine is used the IOT unit communicates data to the Cloud accessible via the website. In this way the length of use, the wear to the parts and the actual location right now of a particular machine can be determined. Therefore the manager can, entirely remotely monitor the activity and operation of the machines and manage the maintenance system to minimise down time and maximise efficiency of the cleaning business. [0084] It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that changes may be made to the embodiment disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention in its various aspects.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST:

Claims

THE CLAIMS: 1. An improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating services, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a cleaning end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source and operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the location and nature of the use is recorded through use of the locating means.

2. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein one or more portable power unit provide the power source.

3. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claim 2, wherein a plurality of swappable power units provide the power source. 4. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claim 3, wherein there are 2,

4 or 6 power units, to provide the power source, so that portable power can be provided to the improved commercial apparatus for an extended period by swapping the power units.

5. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claims 3 or 4, wherein each power unit provides a particular time of cleaning.

6. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claim 5, wherein each power unit provides substantially 60 minutes of cleaning.

7. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein a number of swappable power units are provided to enable cleaning to be carried out for substantially 360 minutes.

8. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a long handle is included and the body is configured to be pushed over the surface by use of the long handle.

9. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein a handle is included and operation is through use of controls on the handle.

10. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the commercial cleaning apparatus is a fully portable vacuum cleaner, including portable power source.

11. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the locating means enables the geographical location of the apparatus to be known, remotely.

12. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the locating means enables communication of data via wireless networks, from the apparatus, the data being accessible likewise through the cloud or wireless networks.

13. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claim 12, wherein the data includes the length of time operational, in order that the power unit charge, and maintenance schedule requirements can be monitored remotely through a remote management system.

14. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein a management system is included, including access to the Cloud data so that the cleaning apparatus may be monitored remotely.

15. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the locating means is a geographical beacon locator.

16. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein an internet of things (“IOT”) unit is included to enable wireless communication between the apparatus and a management system with access via wireless networks or the Cloud.

17. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claim 16, wherein the IOT unit monitors any one or more of the following features: expenditure on unit so far; geographical location of the apparatus; if the apparatus is operational; if the apparatus is running; run time; motor running time; kind of operation the apparatus is undertaking; spare parts replaced; warranty status; warranty time remaining; and a combination thereof.

18. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according any one of claims 12, 13, 16 or 17, wherein the data can be accessed through a remote website or similar to enable management of the apparatus.

19. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein a maintenance schedule can be based around the real use of the apparatus and actual use data provided from the IOT unit through the wireless networks.

20. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claim 19, wherein when a particular apparatus has been used for a length of time and needs servicing, this can be recognised by the management system, and through the locating means the particular cleaning apparatus to be serviced can be readily located geographically, for example, at which office or building the apparatus is stored, so the apparatus can be found readily, serviced and parts replaced to act against potential apparatus failure.

21. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the apparatus requires spare parts and the spare parts are replaced accordingly to a schedule according to the length of time of actual use as reported from the IOT unit through wireless networks to the management system.

22. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claim 21, wherein the spare parts are automatically ordered or flagged for ordering when the recommended maximum use time is approaching, through use of the IOT unit and management system.

23. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein a swivel joint is included between a handle part and the cleaning end of the apparatus, so that a user can drive the cleaning end in any desired direction on the surface for efficient cleaning.

24. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein one or more magnetic attachments are used for parts of the apparatus, to enable ready replacement.

25. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claim 24, wherein magnetic attachments are used for replaceable parts of the apparatus whereby spare parts may be readily replaced through use of the magnetic attachments.

26. An improved commercial cleaning apparatus with a swivel joint, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a cleaning end and a handle end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source and operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; and a swivel joint between the cleaning end and the handle end, enabling swivelling of the cleaning end and associated cleaning means in substantially 180 degrees, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the change of direction of cleaning is readily possible due to the swivel joint.

27. An improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating services, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a handle end and a cleaning end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source with multiple swappable power units, and the cleaning means is operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus; replaceable spare parts for service maintenance, replaceable through use of a magnetic connections, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the location and nature of the use is recorded through use of the locating means, and when maintenance is noted by the management system, the machine and location are identified, and the required spare parts can be readily removed and replaced through use of the magnetic connections, and the long power life and easy manoeuvrability of the apparatus are suitable for commercial cleaning applications.

28. An improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating services, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including an elongated wand with a handle end with apparatus controls at one end, and a cleaning end at the other; a cleaning means for cleaning floors including one or more brushes, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source with multiple swappable power units able to provide many hours of use when used together, and the cleaning means is operable by the apparatus controls to provide cleaning of the floors; a swivel joint between the handle end and the cleaning end to enable substantially 180 degree rotation of the cleaning end through use of the handle for precision cleaning; and a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including length of time of use of the apparatus, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is fully portable and wireless, so it may be used in the usual manner, and has the benefits of the location and nature of the use of the apparatus being sent through use of the locating means to a remote management system whereby maintenance is schedule and if required spare parts may be exchanged through use of magnetic attachment means, and the long power life and easy manoeuvrability are suitable for commercial cleaning applications.

29. An improved commercial cleaning apparatus with locating services and management system including: a body including an elongated wand with an ergonomic handle end, with apparatus controls at one end, and a cleaning end at the other; a cleaning means for cleaning floors including one or more brushes, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source with 6 or more multiple swappable power units able to provide substantially 360 minutes or more cleaning time by swapping the power units, and the cleaning means is operable by the apparatus controls to provide cleaning of the floors; a swivel joint between the handle end and the cleaning end to enable substantially 180 degree rotation of the cleaning end through use of the handle for precision cleaning; and a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including geographical location, building, level in building, length of time of use of the apparatus, kind of use of apparatus, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is fully portable and wireless, so it can be used in the usual manner, and has the benefits of the known location and nature of the use of the apparatus being sent through to a remote management system whereby maintenance is scheduled and if required spare parts exchanged through use of magnetic attachments, and the long power life and easy manoeuvrability are suitable for commercial cleaning applications.

30. An improved commercial cleaning apparatus with extended power, the improved commercial cleaning apparatus including: a body including a cleaning end; a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces; a power source including multiple power units whereby 6 or more power units can be removably installed, wherein the improved commercial cleaning apparatus is used in the usual manner and the location and nature of the use and extended use time of substantially 360 minutes is achieved through use of the multiple power units that may be readily exchanged as needed.

31. An improved commercial cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the location includes the particular building where cleaning is to take place.

32. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claim 31, wherein the location in the building such as floor or area is included and can be tracked by the management system.

33. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus of claim 31 or 32, wherein the location includes identifying the apparatus being used and the location where used, to assist in management of wear and tear through use.

34. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the location and management system together provide data chosen from the following group on a particular apparatus: identifier; age; time of use; kind of use; warranty; spare parts replaced; and expenditure to date.

35. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 34, wherein the management system enables the manager to see the location and data available on all the apparatus at the same time.

36. The improved commercial cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 ot 35, wherein the management system enable the manager to track usage and costs of the apparatus as well as other useful data such as warranty and spare parts schedule through use of the management system.

37. A method of use of improved commercial cleaning apparatus, the commercial cleaning apparatus including a body including a cleaning end, a cleaning means, associated with the body cleaning end, connected to a power source and operable by controls to provide cleaning to surfaces, and a locating means associated with the body to provide locating information of the improved commercial cleaning apparatus, the method including the following steps: a) Identifying commercial cleaning apparatus and giving an identifier to each machine; b) Identifying cleaning locations and giving an identifier to different geographical locations eg Workplace 1, Factory 3; c) (Optionally) further identifying areas within each cleaning location eg floors of a building; d) Operation of the cleaning apparatus to clean surfaces; e) Operation of the locating unit to collect data about the use an identified cleaning apparatus and the cleaning location and wireless communication to a remote location; f) Remote access of the data sent by the locating unit, to enable monitoring and maintenance management, without the need to physically see the apparatus, wherein the exact location of a particular machine in need of maintenance and when and what needs to occur can be determined remotely and maintenance organised.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein an initial set up step is included, to set up the identification and desired maintenance schedule for a particular apparatus.

39. The method of claim 37 or 38, wherein a storage location step is included.

40. The method according to any one of claims 37 to 39, wherein spare parts may be removed and replaced through use of magnetic attachment.

41. The method according any one of claims 37 to 40, wherein the apparatus is the apparatus in any of its forms or variants of claims 1 to 36.