A surface maintenance machine includes a body, a surface maintenance tool coupled to the body, processing circuitry supported at the body, and a light projection mechanism supported at the body and coupled to the processing circuitry. The light projection mechanism includes a light housing, a light emitting element within the light housing, and a projection lens that is configured to focus light emanating from the light emitting element. The light projection mechanism is configured to project light onto a ceiling surface that is above a floor surface along which the surface maintenance machine is configured to perform a surface maintenance task using the surface maintenance tool.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A surface maintenance machine includes a maintenance head assembly comprising one or more surface maintenance tools for performing a surface maintenance operation. The machine also includes wheels and an operator grab handle permitting the operator to apply a force to urge the machine to change orientation. The machine also includes a first and second motor controlled by a motor controller. The motor controller is configured to sense a parameter indicative of motor load on the first and second motor and control the power delivered to the first and second motor to maintain a torque output setting. Maintaining the torque output setting is in light of motor load on the first and second motor and the force applied to the machine by the operator. The control of power delivered to the motors to maintain the torque assists the force applied by the operator to the machine.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/14 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven with rotating tools
A torque transmitting ball joint can include a spherical ball, a stem extending from the spherical ball, one or more pins coupled to the spherical ball, and a socket. The socket can define an opening sized to contain the spherical ball within the socket and one or more slots sized to accommodate a pin of the one or more pins. The one or more pins can be contained by the one or more slots and can translate within the slot as the spherical ball rotates relative to the socket about a pivot center. At least one of the one or more pins can abut a sidewall of its slot and transmit torque from the stem to the socket via the spherical ball when the stem and spherical ball rotates relative to the socket.
A system and method for dispensing a treatment fluid is provided. The system includes a surface maintenance machine, a fluid reservoir, an air blower, and one or more fluid dispensing systems. The one or more fluid dispensing systems each include one or more nozzles in fluid communication with the air blower. The air blower generates an air pressure and dispenses air through the one or more nozzles while the treatment fluid is dispensed through the one or nozzles. The dispensing of air and treatment fluid dispenses the treatment fluid in a mist, fog, or spray to a surface. A method for dispensing a treatment fluid is also provided. The method includes generating an electrically charged treatment fluid and dispensing the electrically charged treatment fluid from the one or more nozzles to a surface.
B05B 13/00 - Machines or plants for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces of objects or other work by spraying, not covered by groups
B08B 3/08 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid the liquid having chemical or dissolving effect
B05B 7/24 - Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas with means, e.g. a container, for supplying liquid or other fluent material to a discharge device
B05B 7/00 - Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
A surface maintenance machine comprises a surface maintenance head assembly with attached surface maintenance tool for collecting debris/fluid using a fluid delivery/recovery system. Embodiments include an outlet nozzle configured to dispense cleaning fluid exiting the outlet nozzle on the surface maintenance tool. The outlet nozzle is fluidly connected to a cleaning fluid source which can vary the intensity of cleaning fluid exiting the outlet nozzle such that different intensities of the cleaning fluid correspond to the cleaning fluid being dispensed on different areas of the surface maintenance tool. Embodiments also include a second outlet nozzle, located opposite the first, which is configured to dispense cleaning fluid exiting the outlet nozzle on the surface maintenance tool. Further embodiments include a pump which can vary the intensity of cleaning fluid exiting the outlet nozzle in a cyclical manner and suspend the cleaning fluid from exiting the outlet nozzle.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/282 - Floor-scrubbing machines, motor-driven having rotary tools
7.
Mobile surface maintenance machine with an onboard pressure washer
A mobile surface maintenance machine embodiment includes a mobile body, a solution tank for containing a cleaning fluid, wheels for supporting the mobile body, a maintenance tool(s), an output channel, an electric power source, a first electric motor, and a pressure washer. The pressure washer includes a spray wand, a pressure pump, and a second electric motor. The pressure pump is fluidly coupled to the spray wand and to the solution tank. The pressure pump is configured to pressurize the cleaning fluid supplied to the spray wand. The second electric motor is operatively coupled to and configured to drive the pressure pump. The second electric motor is configured to receive electric power from the electric power source and is commonly powered by the electric power source that provides power to the first electric motor. The second electric motor is separate from the first electric motor.
B08B 3/02 - Cleaning by the force of jets or sprays
H02K 11/25 - Devices for sensing temperature, or actuated thereby
B60L 50/60 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries
B08B 13/00 - Accessories or details of general applicability for machines or apparatus for cleaning
B60L 1/00 - Supplying electric power to auxiliary equipment of electrically-propelled vehicles
E01H 1/10 - Hydraulically loosening or dislodging undesirable matter; Raking or scraping apparatus
H02K 5/10 - Casings or enclosures characterised by the shape, form or construction thereof with arrangements for protection from ingress, e.g. of water or fingers
H02P 5/68 - Arrangements specially adapted for regulating or controlling the speed or torque of two or more electric motors controlling two or more dc dynamo-electric motors
H02K 5/20 - Casings or enclosures characterised by the shape, form or construction thereof with channels or ducts for flow of cooling medium
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
A47L 11/10 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven
A sweeper/scrubber assembly may be used to clean a floor surface without dry sweeping or mopping solid debris from the floor surface before conveying the sweeper/scrubber assembly over the floor surface. In some examples, the sweeper/scrubber assembly includes at least two counter-rotating brushes, a cleaning fluid dispensing system, a vacuum squeegee, and a solid debris collection reservoir. The cleaning fluid dispensing system can dispense cleaning fluid on the floor being cleaning and or one or both brushes. The vacuum squeegee can be positioned against a face of one of the brushes and can apply a vacuum suction force to the face of the brush. The solid debris collection reservoir can be a space not exposed to a vacuum force that collects solid debris thrown by the rotating brushes.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A handheld suction device may provide an ergonomic and convenient device for cleaning a variety of floor surface soils, including liquid soils. In different configurations, the device may provide a variety of different features to efficiently collect and hold liquid removed from the floor surface and/or prevent vacuum motor flooding if the operator over rotates the device when filled with liquid. In some applications, the handheld suction device provides an interchangeable system that allows the operator to switch between different suction attachments designed for picking up liquid soil and solid soil.
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
10.
Systems and methods for measuring performance of site maintenance
Systems and methods for detecting a site maintenance operation done by a maintenance device are described. At least one motion sensor and at least one localization sensor can each be operatively coupled to the maintenance device to detect one or more motion parameters of the maintenance device via the motion sensor and the localization sensor. The maintenance device can be localized (e.g., its position located) on the indoor map. A movement of the maintenance device can be characterized and/or tracked on the indoor map. A motion map can be displayed to illustrate (e.g., visually represent) the characterized movement. An offsite computer can be used to determine whether the site maintenance operation has commenced at the indoor location, measure one or more maintenance parameters of the site maintenance operation and/or compare the one or more maintenance parameters to predetermined benchmark parameters to determine whether the site maintenance operation has been completed.
G08B 25/10 - Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium using wireless transmission systems
H04W 4/02 - Services making use of location information
G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
A47L 11/00 - Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
G01C 21/10 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups by using measurement of speed or acceleration
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
G01C 21/20 - Instruments for performing navigational calculations
A47L 13/00 - Implements for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
H04W 4/30 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes
H04W 4/38 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for collecting sensor information
H04W 4/33 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for indoor environments, e.g. buildings
G01S 1/02 - Beacons or beacon systems transmitting signals having a characteristic or characteristics capable of being detected by non-directional receivers and defining directions, positions, or position lines fixed relatively to the beacon transmitters; Receivers co-operating therewith using radio waves
A coupling mechanism for removably coupling a storage cart to a surface maintenance machine includes a cart-side connector connectable to the storage cart and a machine-side connector connectable to the surface maintenance machine. The coupling mechanism includes a connecting rod engageable with the machine-side connector. The coupling mechanism includes a bracket assembly positioned between the cart-side connector and the machine-side connector. The bracket assembly can receive the connecting rod to engage therewith to facilitate a first relative movement between the connecting rod and a portion of the bracket assembly in a direction perpendicular to a floor surface on which the surface maintenance machine is traveling, and a pivoting of the bracket assembly about a pivot axis passing through the connecting rod.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A cleaning head assembly for a surface maintenance machine comprising a cleaning tool having a tool adapter, a driver adapted to provide a generally rotational motion to the cleaning tool to clean the floor surface, the driver being releasably connected to the tool adapter of the cleaning tool by a hub, and an aligning receptacle coupled to the tool adapter of the cleaning tool and positioned between the hub and the tool adapter, the aligning receptacle having an receptacle opening for receiving the hub, wherein the aligning receptacle is adapted to guide and matingly seat the hub into the receptacle opening and thereby engage the cleaning tool to the driver such that the cleaning tool and the driver are rotationally aligned and a rotational motion of the driver is transferred to the cleaning tool by the hub.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A surface maintenance machine is provided having a maintenance head assembly positioned substantially within an envelope of the machine. The maintenance head assembly has at least one maintenance tool attachable thereto. The machine also includes a tool eject mechanism positioned below an upper surface of the body. The tool eject mechanism can generate a drop force sufficient to overcome the force between the maintenance tool and the maintenance head assembly. The tool eject mechanism can have an eject button extending above the upper surface of the deck. The eject button can be actuable by at least a portion of the upper surface of the body of the machine when the maintenance head assembly is raised toward the upper surface of the body of the machine beyond a transport position into a tool eject position. When actuated, the tool eject mechanism can eject the maintenance tool from the maintenance head assembly
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/16 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven with rotating tools the tools being disc brushes
A surface maintenance machine comprising two front wheels, at least one rear wheel, a motive source for providing motive force to at least one front wheel to drive the machine on a surface. Embodiments also include an operator platform allowing an operator to stand thereon extending at least partly around the rear wheel, for supporting an operator in a standing position with the operator's feet on either side of the rear wheel.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
An auxiliary waste removal system for a surface maintenance machine, having a vacuum wand for removing waste from the floor surface, a reusable bagless waste collection container removably coupled to the vacuum wand, and a vacuum source fluidly coupled to the bagless waste collection container, the vacuum source generating a vacuum flow from an inlet of the vacuum wand to a vacuum outlet, the vacuum outlet being positioned downstream of the bagless waste collection container and the vacuum source such that the waste suctioned from the floor surface by the vacuum wand travels along the vacuum flow path and is directly received in the bagless waste collection container.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/30 - Floor-scrubbing machines characterised by means for taking-up dirty liquid by suction
E01H 1/08 - Pneumatically dislodging or taking-up undesirable matter; Drying by heat only, or by streams of gas; Cleaning by projecting abrasive particles
18.
Surface maintenance machine with skirting to allow particulate pickup
Embodiments include a surface maintenance machine, comprising a maintenance tool chamber comprising a first side, a second side, a third side and a fourth side. A rotary broom is housed in the maintenance tool chamber and substantially enclosed by the first, second, third and fourth sides thereof. The rotary broom sweeps particulate from the surface. A vacuum system generates vacuum for drawing particulate swept by the rotary broom. The vacuum system is positioned proximal to the first side. A skirt assembly extends substantially around the second, third and fourth sides of the maintenance tool chamber. The skirt assembly has a vacuum passage defined therein and in fluid communication with the vacuum system to direct air flow into the vacuum passage, thereby drawing particulate into the vacuum passage and preventing particulate accumulation at portions of the second, third and fourth sides that are distal to the vacuum system.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/30 - Floor-scrubbing machines characterised by means for taking-up dirty liquid by suction
19.
Thread forming apparatus and method for rotationally molded product
A thread forming apparatus for forming threads in a rotational molding apparatus comprising a molding pin having a generally elongate shape, at least a portion of the molding pin having a threaded portion, the molding pin adapted to rotate along with the mold and receive the plastic material on at least the threaded portion, the molding pin being releasable relative to the mold such that once the plastic material coats the threaded portion of the molding pin and forms a threaded portion on the molded product, the molding pin is completely removed from the mold.
A surface maintenance machine comprising a body having a forward section, a middle section and a rearward section, wherein the forward section is positioned to the front of a transverse centerline of the machine, the middle section is generally centered on the transverse centerline and a rearward section positioned to the rear of the transverse centerline. A storage chamber can be defined in the middle section and enclosed by a front wall, a rear wall, lateral walls, a generally planar top surface, and a generally planar lower surface, such that the storage chamber is generally isolated from components of the surface maintenance machine. The storage chamber can have a storage chamber bottom surface with or below a top surface of at least one battery positioned in the forward section.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/10 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven
A surface maintenance machine comprising two front wheels, at least one rear wheel, a motive source for providing motive force to at least one front wheel to drive the machine on a surface. Embodiments also include an operator platform allowing an operator to stand thereon extending at least partly around the rear wheel, for supporting an operator in a standing position with the operator's feet on either side of the rear wheel.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/10 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven
A cleaning head assembly for a surface maintenance machine comprising a cleaning tool having a tool adapter, a driver adapted to provide a generally rotational motion to the cleaning tool to clean the floor surface, the driver being releasably connected to the tool adapter of the cleaning tool by a hub, and an aligning receptacle coupled to the tool adapter of the cleaning tool and positioned between the hub and the tool adapter, the aligning receptacle having an receptacle opening for receiving the hub, wherein the aligning receptacle is adapted to guide and matingly seat the hub into the receptacle opening and thereby engage the cleaning tool to the driver such that the cleaning tool and the driver are rotationally aligned and a rotational motion of the driver is transferred to the cleaning tool by the hub.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
Embodiments include a floor surface maintenance machine, comprising a cleaning tool chamber comprising a first side, a second side, a third side and a fourth side. A rotary broom is housed in the cleaning tool chamber and substantially enclosed by the first, second, third and fourth sides thereof. The rotary broom sweeps particulate from the surface. A vacuum system generates vacuum for drawing particulate swept by the rotary broom. The vacuum system is positioned proximal to the first side. A skirt assembly extends substantially around the second, third and fourth sides of the cleaning tool chamber. The skirt assembly has a vacuum passage defined therein and in fluid communication with the vacuum system to direct air flow into the vacuum passage, thereby drawing particulate into the vacuum passage and preventing particulate accumulation at portions of the second, third and fourth sides that are distal to the vacuum system.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
24.
Surface maintenance vehicle with an integrated water trap for trapping residual waste
Embodiments include a waste recovery system for a floor surface maintenance machine. The waste recovery system comprises a squeegee assembly having a squeegee frame, a squeegee retainer extending below the squeegee frame and a reservoir integrally defined in the squeegee retainer. The reservoir can have an inlet passage proximal to the floor surface, an outlet passage fluidly coupled to the fluid suction path and leading to the waste recovery tank, and a fluid trap portion positioned between the inlet and outlet passages. The fluid trap portion can retain backflow waste in the fluid suction path. The reservoir is positioned at a clearance distance from the floor surface in a direction normal to the floor surface such that the reservoir forms the lowest portion of the waste recovery system in the direction normal to the floor surface.
A47L 11/30 - Floor-scrubbing machines characterised by means for taking-up dirty liquid by suction
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A liquid treatment system comprising a main flow path, a bypass flow path fluidly coupled to a main flow path, and a liquid conditioning module fluidly coupled with the bypass flow path with a reservoir holding treatment components added to liquid entering the reservoir from the bypass flow path to form a treatment solution. A flow rate of liquid in the main flow path is controlled independently of a flow rate of treatment solution flowing into the main flow path. A dispensing component fluidly coupled to the liquid conditioning module controls flow rates or pressures of treatment solution flowing out of the bypass flow path and into the main flow path independently of flow rate of liquid flowing in the main flow path. The liquid treatment system comprises a drop tube system suspended in treatment solution having the highest treatment concentration.
B08B 3/08 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid the liquid having chemical or dissolving effect
C02F 1/00 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
C02F 1/50 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by addition or application of a germicide or by oligodynamic treatment
C02F 1/68 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by addition of specified substances, e.g. trace elements, for ameliorating potable water
C02F 5/08 - Treatment of water with complexing chemicals or other solubilising agents for softening, scale prevention or scale removal, e.g. adding sequestering agents
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
26.
Systems and methods for supplying treatment liquids having nanobubbles
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/283 - Floor-scrubbing machines, motor-driven having rotary tools the tools being disc brushes
C25B 1/04 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water
C25B 9/18 - Assemblies comprising a plurality of cells
C25B 15/08 - Supplying or removing reactants or electrolytes; Regeneration of electrolytes
B08B 1/00 - Cleaning by methods involving the use of tools, brushes, or analogous members
B08B 1/04 - Cleaning by methods involving the use of tools, brushes, or analogous members using rotary operative members
B08B 3/04 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid
B08B 3/08 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid the liquid having chemical or dissolving effect
B08B 3/10 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration
B08B 7/00 - Cleaning by methods not provided for in a single other subclass or a single group in this subclass
C02F 1/461 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis
Embodiments include a cleaning head assembly for a floor surface maintenance machine. The cleaning head assembly can include a hub (or cleaning head housing) and a pad or a brush driver, wherein the driver attaches to and aligns axially with the hub (or cleaning head housing) in a touch-free manner.
A47L 11/283 - Floor-scrubbing machines, motor-driven having rotary tools the tools being disc brushes
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
31.
Surface maintenance machine with a head adjustment mechanism
Embodiments include a mechanism for leveling or providing pad assistance to surface maintenance machines. The surface maintenance machine can include a frame, a plurality of wheels, a head assembly, and a head adjustment mechanism. The head adjustment mechanism can be positioned in line with and operatively coupled to a first portion of the head assembly, such that the first portion of the head assembly can be moved towards or away from the surface by adjusting the position of a fastener in a slot. Such embodiments are useful for leveling the head assembly to maintain an even degree of burnishing or providing pad assistance. Embodiments include methods of using such mechanisms for leveling or providing pad assist to surface maintenance machines.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/16 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven with rotating tools the tools being disc brushes
B24B 7/18 - Single-purpose machines or devices for grinding floorings, walls, ceilings or the like
B24B 23/02 - Portable grinding machines, e.g. hand-guided; Accessories therefor with rotating grinding tools; Accessories therefor
B24B 23/00 - Portable grinding machines, e.g. hand-guided; Accessories therefor
A47L 11/14 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven with rotating tools
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/164 - Parts or details of the brushing tools
A47L 11/30 - Floor-scrubbing machines characterised by means for taking-up dirty liquid by suction
A47L 11/16 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven with rotating tools the tools being disc brushes
A47L 11/162 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven with rotating tools the tools being disc brushes having only a single disc brush
36.
Surface maintenance vehicle with self-cleaning reservoir that captures hose runoff
Certain embodiments include a fluid recovery system. The fluid recovery system includes a vacuum system that applies a suction force on fluids on the floor surface to draw fluids to a fluid recovery tank. A reservoir is operably coupled to a recovery hose. The reservoir includes an inlet passage, an outlet passage leading to the recovery hose, and a fluid trap portion positioned between the inlet and outlet passages. The reservoir permits passage therethrough of fluids suctioned by the vacuum system from the floor to the recovery hose, and traps a backflow of fluids from the recovery hose in the fluid trap portion when the vacuum system stops suctioning fluids from the floor to the recovery hose. The reservoir is shaped to be generally self-cleaning and clears most fluids trapped in the fluid trap portion when the vacuum system starts suctioning fluids from the floor to the recovery hose.
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
A47L 11/30 - Floor-scrubbing machines characterised by means for taking-up dirty liquid by suction
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
An electrolytic cell is provided. The cell includes a housing having a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet outlet, an anode and a cathode positioned within the housing and defining a reaction chamber therebetween, and a liquid flow path, from the liquid inlet to the liquid outlet, which passes through the reaction chamber. A transition duct is positioned at the liquid outlet and has a duct inlet, a duct outlet and a transition section along which internal side walls of the transition section converge along the liquid flow path to define a smooth transition from a first cross-sectional area to a second cross-sectional area of the transition duct. The first cross-sectional area is at least two times greater than the second cross sectional area.
C25B 9/00 - Cells or assemblies of cells; Constructional parts of cells; Assemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assemblies; Process-related cell features
C25B 15/08 - Supplying or removing reactants or electrolytes; Regeneration of electrolytes
38.
System and method for generating and dispensing sodium hydroxide solutions
A system and method for generating and dispensing a diluted sodium hydroxide solution, the system including an electrolysis unit configured to electrochemically generate a concentrated sodium hydroxide solution from an anolyte solution formed with a non-chlorinated electrolyte. The system also including a dosing pump configured to receive dilution water and the concentrated sodium hydroxide solution at a high dilution ratio to produce the diluted sodium hydroxide solution, and a dispenser configured to dispense the diluted sodium hydroxide solution.
Embodiments include a cleaning head assembly for a floor surface maintenance machine. The cleaning head assembly can include a hub (or cleaning head housing) and a pad driver, wherein the pad driver attaches to and aligns axially with the hub (or cleaning head housing) in a touch-free manner.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/283 - Floor-scrubbing machines, motor-driven having rotary tools the tools being disc brushes
40.
Dynamic maintenance scheduling system for surface cleaning machines
An automatic and dynamic maintenance scheduling system for surface cleaning machines. Based on the receipt or lack of receipt of machine usage data from the machine, the system will adjust or maintain scheduled service call dates.
A method and apparatus are provided for electrolyzing a source liquid in an electrolytic device. The electrolytic device includes a first cathode in a cathode chamber; and an anode and a second, auxiliary cathode in an anode chamber. The anode chamber and cathode chamber are separated by a barrier, and the anode and the auxiliary cathode are separated by a gap that lacks a barrier. While electrolyzing the source liquid with the electrolytic device, a level of current applied to the auxiliary cathode is adjusted in response to pH of an anolyte liquid produced from the source liquid by the anode chamber to maintain the pH within a desired range.
C25B 9/04 - Devices for current supply; Electrode connections; Electric inter-cell connections
C25B 9/00 - Cells or assemblies of cells; Constructional parts of cells; Assemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assemblies; Process-related cell features
A system and method for generating hypochlorous acid, the system comprising an electrolysis cell, a first fluid line configured to direct a first salt solution to a cathode chamber of the electrolysis cell, and a second fluid line configured to direct a second salt solution to an anode chamber of the electrolysis cell, where the second salt solution has a greater salt concentration than the first salt solution.
A surface maintenance vehicle with a compact side brush assembly. The side brush assembly includes a brush deck, a parallel linkage assembly, a swing arm, and an actuator assembly. The brush deck carries a floor-engaging brush. The parallel linkage assembly permits pivoting of the brush deck about a lift axis to raise and lower the brush deck. The swing arm is adapted to rotates to swing the brush deck towards and away from the floor surface maintenance machine. The actuator assembly includes a linear actuator and a slip link.
A47L 11/29 - Floor-scrubbing machines characterised by means for taking-up dirty liquid
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
44.
Surface maintenance vehicle with compact cleaning head lift mechanism and suspension
A surface maintenance vehicle with a compact cleaning head lift mechanism and suspension. The cleaning head lift mechanism and suspension adjust a scrub head to an operational mode and a transport mode, yet remain compact such that they are confined to specific areas of the surface maintenance vehicle.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A47L 11/283 - Floor-scrubbing machines, motor-driven having rotary tools the tools being disc brushes
A surface maintenance vehicle with quick release squeegee assembly and a method of connecting a squeegee assembly to the brush deck of a floor surface maintenance vehicle. A single release latch may be used to connect and disconnect the squeegee assembly and the brush deck. When engaged, corresponding locating structures on the brush deck and a frame of the squeegee assembly align the brush deck and the frame and provide points where the relative movement between the brush deck and frame are restricted.
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A battery-powered vehicle and a vehicle battery maintenance system that includes a battery charger that monitors energy consumption data from the vehicle battery to generate charging instructions to a charger. A central data unit (CDU) can determine whether if a vehicle electrical load is consuming too much energy and then generate instructions to the vehicle controller to limit the energy consumption. The CDU can notify an offsite central computer if the battery has not been charged according to charging instructions.
A cleaning solution generator comprising a housing with an interior reservoir and a brine tank, the cleaning solution generator being configured to generate an alkaline solution from a mixed solution and to operably direct the generated alkaline solution to the interior reservoir of the housing.
C02F 1/461 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis
C25B 9/00 - Cells or assemblies of cells; Constructional parts of cells; Assemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assemblies; Process-related cell features
C02F 1/467 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection
A surface maintenance vehicle having a low profile recessed cavity in the side of the vehicle beneath the driver's seat which can be used for transporting items. The vehicle includes a vehicle shroud containing operational components of the vehicle, a driver's seat, and a seat shroud. A recessed cavity is formed in the side surface of the seat shroud and includes a vertically oriented anterior surface, a vertically oriented posterior surface opposing the anterior surface, a horizontally oriented bottom surface, wherein the bottom surface is generally perpendicular to the anterior and posterior surfaces, and a vertically oriented inner surface, wherein the inner surface is generally perpendicular to the anterior surface, posterior surface and bottom surface. The recessed cavity is open on the side and the top and can be used for transporting items while not increasing the overall size or footprint of the surface maintenance machine.
E01H 1/08 - Pneumatically dislodging or taking-up undesirable matter; Drying by heat only, or by streams of gas; Cleaning by projecting abrasive particles
51.
Method and apparatus for cleaning surfaces with high pressure electrolyzed fluid
A mobile surface cleaner includes a mobile body, a least one wheel, a source of a fluid, a pump, a sprayer hose connectable to a fitting on the mobile body, a high pressure spray gun connectable to the sprayer hose, and a functional generator. The functional generator includes first and second electrode chambers, which are separated by an ion exchange membrane. A flow path extends from the fluid source to the fitting and passes through the functional generator. The flow path is configured to combine all the fluid produced in the first and second electrode chambers to form a combined fluid on the cleaner. A control circuit is coupled to the pump and the functional generator and is configured to energize the pump to pump the fluid along the flow path and energize the functional generator to electrochemically activate the liquid that is passed through the functional generator.
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
3 molecules. Substantially all of the liquid activated in the first and second electrode chambers are dispensed from the device within 5 seconds of the time at which the liquids are activated by the functional generator without an intermediate step of storing either of the liquids produced in the first or second electrode chambers. At least some of the dispensed liquid is recovered from the floor with a recovery device carried by the mobile floor cleaning device.
A filter box for a surface maintenance machine incorporating aspects of a fan housing. In one example, a filter box for a sweeping machine is provided with an impeller fan housing beneath a cylindrical filter. Operation of the impeller fan draws air from a debris hopper, through the cylindrical filter, and through an expansion chamber defined by a scroll conduit prior to outlet to atmosphere.
A floor surface maintenance vehicle, and methods of using a floor surface maintenance vehicle, the vehicle including a frame, a plurality of wheels, a cleaning component extending from an underside of the frame, a steering wheel having a central aperture and rotatable about a central axis, and a steering wheel hub located within the central aperture of the steering wheel and having a panel, wherein the panel is stationary relative to the central axis. Buttons are provided on the panel, including a first button that is C-shaped and extends around a portion of a periphery of the panel. The C-shaped button may be used to control frequently used functions such as cleaning functions or operation of a horn, for example.
A47L 11/10 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven
A47L 11/40 - Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups , or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers or levers
A squeegee assembly for a floor surface maintenance machine having a tabbed frame, an apertured front squeegee blade adapted to receive at least portions of the tabs of said frame, a tabbed vacuum core having a surface adapted to receive portions of the tabs of the frame, a rear squeegee blade having apertures adapted to receive at least portions of the tabs of the vacuum core; and a clamp band for securing the frame, front and rear squeegee blades and vacuum core together. A method of quickly and efficiently assembling a squeegee assembly is also provided.
A releasable squeegee assembly for coupling to a surface maintenance machine and including a compliant bushing and an over-center lever attached to a pull rod and compliant spring. The compliant bushing is compressed via said over-center lever with said compliant spring providing a spring force. A bushing sleeve is provided to limit the degree of compression of said compliant bushing by the over-center lever. A method of coupling a squeegee assembly to a surface maintenance machine is also provided.
A side brush assembly mechanism for a floor surface maintenance vehicle including a linkage assembly supporting a brush deck, a pivot assembly and a cable connected to the linkage assembly, and a cable tensioning device for retracting the cable. The cable tensioning device is capable of lifting and retracting the brush deck. The side brush assembly mechanism may include a biasing mechanism for lowering and extending the brush deck.
A portable vacuum wand for use with a surface maintenance machine, for collection of debris remote from the machine. The vacuum wand is detachable from a rear squeegee assembly of the surface maintenance machine, and includes a handle and a wand head. A vacuum conduit of the vacuum wand is adapted to be coupled to the rear squeegee assembly when not in use so as to provide vacuum to the rear squeegee assembly. A method of cleaning a floor surface with a surface maintenance machine and a portable vacuum wand is also provided.
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
59.
Apparatus having electrolysis cell and indicator light illuminating through liquid
An apparatus is provided, which includes an electrolysis cell, a liquid flow path that passes through the electrolysis cell, and an indicator light. The indicator light is illuminated as a function of an operating characteristic of the electrolysis cell and luminous flux radiated from the light illuminates liquid along at least a portion of the flow path.
A filter shaking assembly for a floor surface maintenance machine including a filter assembly in fluid communication with the debris hopper and having a cylindrical filter held against a shaker plate. The shaker plate is vibrated by a shaker motor at least partially positioned within an interior of the filter and eccentric mass to remove an accumulation of debris from the surface of the filter. The eccentric mass may include two eccentric masses positioned on a common shaft of the shaker motor.
A mobile surface maintenance machine with a debris hopper and a filter module providing at least two filter stages for separating dust and debris within the debris hopper, the filter module including a filter shaking mechanism and a housing adapted to seal against the upper opening of the debris hopper, and wherein the debris hopper is removed from air communication with the exhaust fan when the debris hopper is in a debris dump configuration and is returned to air communication with the exhaust fan when the debris hopper is lowered into an operational configuration.
A method and apparatus are provided for reducing an oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) of an electrochemically activated liquid. The ORP is reduced by emitting ions from an ion generator into the electrochemically activated liquid, wherein the ions have a charge polarity that is opposite to the ORP of the liquid.
A47L 11/29 - Floor-scrubbing machines characterised by means for taking-up dirty liquid
C25B 9/00 - Cells or assemblies of cells; Constructional parts of cells; Assemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assemblies; Process-related cell features
A filter cleaning mechanism for a cylindrical filter within a filter box of a surface maintenance machine having a shaker plate engaging a top end of the filter and having vibrations induced via a motor and eccentric mass combination. In one example, the motor and eccentric mass are mounted to a hinged cover plate via a vibration isolating connection. A pair of slot structures may limit movement of the filter to a generally vertical direction relative to ground.
A filter system for a surface maintenance machine having a hopper assembly for receiving brush-thrown debris including a cyclonic separator for separating dust and debris from air drawn through the hopper via vacuum action. The cyclonic separator may include multiple cyclone and may be in fluid communication with the hopper assembly so as to periodically receive dust and debris exiting the filter system.
A hand-held spray apparatus is provided, which includes a tank for holding a supply of liquid to be treated and a functional generator carried by the hand-held spray apparatus. The functional generator receives the liquid from the tank and has an anode chamber and a cathode chamber separated by an ion exchange membrane and electrochemically activates the liquid that is passed through the functional generator. A spray output is coupled to an output of the functional generator and dispenses the electrochemically activated liquid as an output spray.
A method is provided, which includes moving a mobile floor cleaning machine along a floor. Onboard the mobile floor cleaning machine, a liquid is sparged by electrolysis. The sparged liquid is dispensed from the mobile floor cleaning machine.
C02F 1/46 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
67.
Electrochemically activated anolyte and catholyte liquid
An electrochemically activated fluid is provided, which has an anolyte and a catholyte. For example, a sparged anolyte and a sparged catholyte are provided. In another example, a combined anolyte and catholyte is provided.
A method and apparatus are provided for receiving a cleaning liquid having a pH in a range between pH6-pH8 and an oxidation reduction potential (ORP) between ±50 mV. The liquid is converted into an anolyte liquid and a catholyte liquid having respective pHs outside of the range between pH6-pH8 and having respective ORPs outside the range between ±50 mV. The anolyte and catholyte liquids are applied to a surface, wherein the anolyte and catholyte liquids are, for example, in a combined state on the surface and substantially neutralize to a pH between pH6-pH8 and an ORP between ±50 mV within one minute of the time at which the anolyte and catholyte liquids are converted.
A method is provided, which includes moving a mobile floor cleaning device along a floor; electrochemically activating a liquid on the mobile floor cleaning device, and dispensing the electrochemically activated liquid from the mobile floor cleaning device.
C02F 1/46 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
70.
Method of generating sparged, electrochemically activated liquid
A method is provided, which includes generating a cleaning liquid by a combination of a sparging process and an electrochemical process that produces an anolyte and a catholye.
A mobile surface cleaner is provided, which includes a mobile body configured to travel over a surface, a source of a liquid, a liquid dispenser, a flow path from the liquid source to the liquid dispenser, and an electrolyzing sparging device in fluid communication with the flow path.
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
72.
Cleaning apparatus having a functional generator for producing electrochemically activated cleaning liquid
An apparatus is provided, which includes a mobile body configured to travel over a surface, a source of a liquid, a liquid dispenser and a flow path from the liquid source to the liquid dispenser. A functional generator is coupled in the flow path, which comprises an anode chamber and a cathode chamber separated by an ion exchange membrane and which electrochemically activates the liquid from the liquid source which is passed through the functional generator.
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
73.
Apparatus for generating sparged, electrochemically activated liquid
An apparatus is provided, which includes a sparging device and a functional generator. The functional generator is in fluid communication with the sparging device and includes an anode chamber and a cathode chamber separated by an ion exchange membrane.
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
A47L 5/38 - Built-in suction cleaner installations, i.e. with fixed tube system to which, at different stations, hoses can be connected
A47L 15/00 - Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or table-ware
B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
C25B 9/00 - Cells or assemblies of cells; Constructional parts of cells; Assemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assemblies; Process-related cell features
C25D 17/00 - Constructional parts, or assemblies thereof, of cells for electrolytic coating
A debris collection system for a floor cleaning machine includes a motorized cleaning head attached to a frame of the floor cleaning machine, a carriage attached to the frame, a debris tray, and a de-watering system. The debris tray is removably receivable within the carriage and is positioned to receive debris thrown from the motorized cleaning head. The de-watering system includes a liquid extracting component, a tray tubing section, a main tubing section, a waste recovery tank supported on the frame and a vacuum in vacuum communication with the main tubing section. The liquid extracting component is attached to the debris tray and is configured to extract liquid from within the debris tray. The tray tubing section has a first end that is coupled to the liquid extracting component and a second end that is mounted in fixed relation to the debris tray. The a main tubing section has a first end that is connected to the waste collection tank and a second end that is positioned to automatically couple to the second end of the tray tubing section upon installation of the debris tray.
A47L 5/00 - Structural features of suction cleaners
E01H 1/08 - Pneumatically dislodging or taking-up undesirable matter; Drying by heat only, or by streams of gas; Cleaning by projecting abrasive particles
75.
Floor cleaner scrub head having a movable disc scrub member
A scrub head includes a first disc scrub member, a movable support having first and second positions, and a movable disc scrub member. The first disc scrub member is rotatable about a first vertical axis. The movable disc scrub member is rotatable about a second vertical axis and is connected to the movable support. The movable disc scrub member is configured to move relative to the first disc scrub member along first and second orthogonal axes of a horizontal plane, which is transverse to the first and second vertical axes, between first and second positions respectively corresponding to the first and second positions of the movable support.
A hard floor sweeping and scrubbing machine includes a mobile body comprising a frame supported on wheels for travel over a surface, a motorized cleaning head, a waste hopper, a hopper lift and a vacuum squeegee. The motorized cleaning head is attached to the mobile body and is configured to perform sweeping and scrubbing operations on the surface. The waste hopper is positioned on a rear side of the cleaning head and is configured to receive waste discharged from the cleaning head during the surface sweeping operations. The hopper lift is configured to raise the waste hopper from an operating position, in which the waste hopper is positioned adjacent the cleaning head, to a dumping position, in which the waste hopper is positioned to dump waste collected in the waste hopper. In one embodiment, the vacuum squeegee is attached to the hopper lift. Also disclosed is a method of cleaning a surface using embodiments of the machine.
A47L 11/30 - Floor-scrubbing machines characterised by means for taking-up dirty liquid by suction
E01H 1/08 - Pneumatically dislodging or taking-up undesirable matter; Drying by heat only, or by streams of gas; Cleaning by projecting abrasive particles
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
A cleaning head for use with a floor cleaning machine comprises first and second cleaning tools, at least one motor and a cleaning tool support. The at least one motor is configured to respectively drive rotation of the first and second cleaning tools about first and second horizontal axes. The first and second cleaning tools each have an exterior cleaning surface configured to engage the floor during floor cleaning operations. The cleaning tool support is configured to support the first and second cleaning tools for movement of the first and second horizontal axes relative to each other in a plane that is transverse to the first and second horizontal axes. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a floor cleaning machine that includes embodiments of the cleaning head.
A cleaning tool generally comprises a hub having a longitudinal axis and a plurality of cleaning members. The cleaning members, formed of a fibrous material, are connected to the hub. In accordance with one embodiment, the cleaning members are distributed along the longitudinal axis. Also disclosed is a floor cleaning machine that includes a mobile body, the cleaning tool and a motor. The mobile body supports the cleaning tool and the motor and is configured to travel over a surface. The motor is configured to drive a rotation of the cleaning hub about the longitudinal axis.
In a method of communicating data from a mobile floor cleaner to a remote receiver a data communication is initiated from a communicator of the mobile floor cleaner to the remote receiver and data is communicated to the remote receiver with the communicator.
G08B 1/08 - Systems for signalling characterised solely by the form of transmission of the signal using electric transmission
G08B 21/00 - Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
A47L 5/00 - Structural features of suction cleaners
A47L 7/00 - Suction cleaners adapted for additional purposes; Tables with suction openings for cleaning purposes; Containers for cleaning articles by suction; Suction cleaners adapted to cleaning of brushes; Suction cleaners adapted to taking-up liquids
G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
A rider surface maintenance vehicle with variable dynamic braking, in contrast to a mechanically-engaged braking system that uses a brake cable. A brake pedal engages a sensor that encodes the pedal position as an electronic signal. The electronic signal, along with the vehicle velocity, determines a machine deceleration rate, or braking rate, either by calculation, lookup table, or a combination of the two. The braking rate may be tuned so that the of the brake mimics or approximates the feel of a conventional mechanically-engaged brake that uses a brake cable. During stopping, once the vehicle passes below a threshold velocity, a parking brake is automatically engaged. The braking rate is converted to a duty cycle, and the braking is preferably accomplished by pulse width modulation (PWM) of an electrical load applied in parallel to the motor.
B60T 13/00 - Transmitting braking action from initiating means to ultimate brake actuator with power assistance or drive; Brake systems incorporating such transmitting means, e.g. air-pressure brake systems
A low-profile side squeegee assembly for surface maintenance vehicles, capable of cleaning under so-called “toe kicks”. In contrast with typical suspensions that are mounted directly above the center of the squeegee assembly, and are therefore too tall to fit under toe kicks, a low-profile suspension attaches at the ends of a squeegee assembly, and uses torsion springs to provide a downward force on the squeegee assembly. In order to counteract any potential twisting effects that might result from suspending the squeegee from the ends rather than the center, the squeegee assembly is mounted at an angle.
Disclosed herein is a street sweeper having a vertical chain driven conveyor apparatus. The vertical chain driven conveyor apparatus is provided with a jointed shaft to compensate for chain wear over the life of the chains. The vertical chain driven conveyor apparatus is provided with an automatically adjusting chain tension adjustment system. The vertical chain driven conveyor apparatus is provided with locking adjustment mechanism to prevent the chains from losing tension when the sweeper is turned off. An initialization program is operable to restore chain tension when the street sweeper is started and prevent sweeping operations until a desired chain tension has been indicated.
The present invention provides an improved mechanical coupling for rapidly adjusting the elevation of a working edge portion of a tool which working edge portion is subject to wear that decreases the effective length of the working edge portion. In one embodiment, the bristles of a drum-type brush comprise the working edge portion. Once the working edge is properly adjusted with respect to a work surface, the amount of downforce imparted by the working edge and the pattern of the working edge on a work surface are maximized. In use an operator compares the length of the working edge to a first indicia set displayed adjacent the working edge and adjusts the elevation of the working edge with reference to a second indicia set which corresponds to the first indicia set. Surface maintenance vehicles which support an adjustable height tool with a working edge that wears down may utilize the present invention. The work surface may comprise any finished or unfinished interior or exterior surface such as without limitation such surfaces covered with fabric, carpet, tile, wood, stone resin-based and plastic materials and the like.