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 9/28 - Installation of the electric equipment, e.g. adaptation or attachment to the suction cleaner; Controlling suction cleaners by electric means
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
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.
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 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.
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 11/10 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven
A47L 11/18 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven with rotating tools the tools being roll 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
6.
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.
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.
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
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 system 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 system. 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.
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 13/51 - Storing of cleaning tools, e.g. containers therefor
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
11.
SURFACE MAINTENANCE MACHINE WITH A QUICK EJECT MAINTENANCE TOOL ASSEMBLY
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 11/16 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines motor-driven with rotating 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
Embodiments include a surface maintenance machine (100), comprising a maintenance tool chamber comprising a first side, a second side, a third side and a fourth side. A rotary broom (110, 112) is housed in the maintenance tool chamber and substantially enclosed by the first, second, third and fourth sides thereof. The rotary broom (110, 112) sweeps particulate from the surface. A vacuum system (150) generates vacuum for drawing particulate swept by the rotary broom (110, 112). The vacuum system is positioned proximal to the first side. A skirt assembly (200) extends substantially around the second, third and fourth sides of the maintenance tool chamber. The skirt assembly (200) 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 (150).
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 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
14.
SURFACE MAINTENANCE MACHINE WITH A QUICK ALIGNMENT MECHANISM FOR A CLEANING TOOL
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
E01H 1/05 - Brushing apparatus with driven brushes
A47L 11/283 - Floor-scrubbing machines, motor-driven having rotary tools the tools being disc brushes
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.
C02F 1/68 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by addition of specified substances, e.g. trace elements, for ameliorating potable water
C02F 1/00 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
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 11/03 - Floor surfacing or polishing machines characterised by having provisions for supplying cleaning or polishing agents
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 fluids 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 11/40 - 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
17.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SUPPLYING TREATMENT LIQUIDS HAVING NANOBUBBLES
A method and apparatus are provided for cleaning a surface (125, 410). In one example, the method includes passing a feed liquid from a liquid source (106) to an electrolysis cell (10) and inducing a current through the electrolysis cell (10) to electrochemically activate the feed liquid in the electrolysis cell (10). Electrolysis of the feed liquid can generate an electrochemically-activated liquid that is supersaturated with dissolved gases (e.g., oxygen and/or hydrogen) and also contains nanobubbles. In one configuration, the electrolysis cell generates a concentration of nanobubbles having a diameter of 10nm to 450 nm of at least 1x10°. The method can further involve dispensing at least one portion of the electrochemically-activated liquid to the surface (125, 410).
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
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
A mobile floor cleaner that includes a moveable housing, a cleaning head operably supported by the moveable housing, one or more solution generators configured to receive a feed liquid and to generate a cleaning solution from the feed liquid by application of acoustic energy and/or nanobubble generation, and control electronics configured to operate the one or more solution generators.
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
19.
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 11/14 - 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
20.
WATER RECYCLING SYSTEM FOR MOBILE SURFACE CLEANERS
A mobile surface cleaner 100 has a mobile body 102 configured to travel to areas to be cleaned. A dispensing system 103 attached to the mobile body 102 dispenses liquid on a surface 104 as dispensed liquid. A recovery system 105 attached to the mobile body 102 recovers dispensed liquid as recovered liquid 124. A regenerative media filter 148 attached to the mobile body 102 filters the recovered liquid 124 to form filtered liquid 152 that can be dispensed by the dispensing system 103.
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
21.
CLEANING DISC HAVING SACRIFICIAL ELECTROLYSIS CELL AND CORRESPONDING MOBILE FLOOR CLEANER
An apparatus (10, 300) is provided having a scrubbing disc (30, 224, 234, 312) that includes sacrificial electrodes (110, 112, 220, 222, 230, 232) of an electrolysis cell (36, 336).
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 11/40 - 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
23.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GENERATING AND DISPENSING SODIUM HYDROXIDE SOLUTIONS
A system (10, 110) and method for generating and dispensing a diluted sodium hydroxide solution, the system (10, 110) including an electrolysis unit (16, 116) configured to electrochemically generate a concentrated sodium hydroxide solution from an anolyte solution formed with a non-chlorinated electrolyte. The system (10, 110) also including a dosing pump (32, 132) 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 (14, 114) configured to dispense the diluted sodium hydroxide solution.
An electrolytic cell (10) is provided. The cell includes a housing (12, 40) having a liquid inlet (30) and a liquid outlet (32), an anode (22) and a cathode (20) positioned within the housing (12, 40) and defining a reaction chamber (14, 16) therebetween, and a liquid flow path, from the liquid inlet (30) to the liquid outlet (32), which passes through the reaction chamber (14, 16). A transition duct (34) is positioned at the liquid outlet (32) and has a duct inlet, a duct outlet and a transition section along which internal side walls (104) of the transition section converge along the liquid flow path to define a smooth transition from a first cross-sectional area (100) to a second cross-sectional area (102) of the transition duct. The first cross- sectional area (100) is at least two times greater than the second cross sectional area (102).
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
25.
CLEANING HEAD ASSEMBLIES HAVING TOUCH-FREE ATTACHMENT AND ALIGNMENT TECHNOLOGY
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
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.
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 (54) in an electrolytic device (10, 50, 300). The electrolytic device (10, 50, 300) includes a first cathode (20, 320) in a cathode chamber (14); and an anode (22, 322) and a second, auxiliary cathode (24, 324) in an anode chamber (16). The anode chamber (16) and cathode chamber (14) are separated by a barrier (18, 316), and the anode (22, 322) and the auxiliary cathode (24, 324) are separated by a gap (26) that lacks a barrier. While electrolyzing the source liquid with the electrolytic device (10, 50, 300), a level of current applied to the auxiliary cathode (24, 324) is adjusted in response to pH of an anolyte liquid (36) produced from the source liquid (32, 54) by the anode chamber (16) to maintain the pH within a desired range.
Embodiments of the invention provide a cleaning apparatus, such as a battery- powered vacuum cleaner, that has a body and a cleaning wand. The apparatus operates in a multiple power mode, uses a wireless system to allow an operator interface to be provided on the cleaning wand and/or uses a motion detector on the cleaning wand to operate the cleaning apparatus in an intelligent manner. In cases where the cleaning apparatus is a battery-powered apparatus, the use of a multiple power mode, wireless system and/or a motion detector helps to extend the life of a battery.
A47L 9/28 - Installation of the electric equipment, e.g. adaptation or attachment to the suction cleaner; Controlling suction cleaners by electric means
A system (10) and method for generating hypochlorous acid, the system (10) comprising an electrolysis cell (38), a first fluid line (36) configured to direct a first salt solution to a cathode chamber (42) of the electrolysis cell (38), and a second fluid line (56) configured to direct a second salt solution to an anode chamber (46) of the electrolysis cell (38), where the second salt solution has a greater salt concentration than the first salt solution.
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
31.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GENERATING AND DISPENSING ELECTROLYZED SOLUTIONS
A system (16) and method for generating and dispensing a diluted electrolyzed solution, where the system (16) includes a solution generator (18), one or more containers (20), and one or more dispensing stations (22) separate from the solution generator (18). The solution generator (18)generates and dispenses a concentrated electrolyzed solution to the container(s) (20). The dispensing station(s) (22) draw the concentrated electrolyzed solution from the container(s) (20), dilutes the drawn concentrated electrolyzed solution, and dispenses the diluted electrolyzed solution.
A cleaning system (10a-10g) comprising a liquid source (12) configured to provide a feed liquid at a first temperature, and an electrolysis cell (18) configured to receive the feed liquid and to electrochemically activate the feed liquid to provide an electrochemically-activated liquid, wherein the electrochemical activation also heats the feed liquid such that the electrochemically-activated liquid is at an elevated temperature that is greater than the first temperature. The cleaning system also includes a dispenser (20) configured to dispense the electrochemically-activated liquid.
B08B 3/02 - Cleaning by the force of jets or sprays
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
C02F 1/32 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by irradiation with ultraviolet light
C02F 1/467 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection
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
B29C 49/00 - Blow-moulding, i.e. blowing a preform or parison to a desired shape within a mould; Apparatus therefor
An apparatus (14, 500) and method are provided to clean and sanitize livestock carcasses. The apparatus (14, 500) includes a livestock carcass travel path (18, 504), at least one liquid dispenser (38, 550) configured to dispense liquid (41, 200) to the carcass travel path (18, 504), and at least one treatment electrode (40, 554). A control circuit (32, 320) is configured to cause an alternating electric field to be generated between the electrode (40, 554) and a surface of a carcass along the travel path (18, 504), through the dispensed liquid (41, 200).
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
35.
SURFACE MAINTENANCE VEHICLE WITH COMPACT SIDE BRUSH ASSEMBLY
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
E01H 1/05 - Brushing apparatus with driven brushes
36.
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
37.
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR GENERATING THERMALLY-ENHANCED TREATMENT LIQUIDS
A cleaning system (10a) comprising a liquid source (12) configured to provide a feed liquid, an electrolysis cell (18) configured to receive the feed liquid and to electrochemically activate the feed liquid to provide an electrochemically-activated liquid, where the electrochemical activation also heats the feed liquid such that the electrochemically-activated liquid is heated, and a dispenser (20) configured to dispense the electrochemically-activated liquid.
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 cleaning solution generator (40) comprising a housing (42) with an interior reservoir (60) and a brine tank (102), the cleaning solution generator (40) being configured to generate an alkaline solution from a mixed solution and to operably direct the generated alkaline solution to the interior reservoir (60) of the housing (42).
An impeller assembly and method of providing a plurality of radially-aligned aerodynamic channels including a rim plate defining a plurality of blades and the backplate defining a blade interlock structure for aligning and coupling the plates together. The rim plate defines a plurality of fluid-engaging blades with the aerodynamic channels being defined between adjacent pairs of the blades. The interlock structure includes a plurality of tine-shaped interlocks extending from the backplate. Each blade of the impeller may engage the interlock structure in a saddle manner. The backplate is defined by areas of reduced thickness allowing outer portions of the backplate to flex (rotate) toward further contact with the rim plate. The impeller assembly is provided with a plurality of aerodynamic channels defined by complex curved surfaces of the back plate and the rim plate to improve efficiency.
One embodiment of a cleaning head (106) comprises a frame (151), a cylindrical member (152) and a fluid output (118). The cylindrical member is supported by the frame for rotation about a central axis (154). The cylindrical member comprises a porous and compressible outer cylindrical wall (190). The fluid output is configured to dispense a liquid to an interior cavity (184) of the cylindrical member. In one embodiment, a motor is not directly coupled to the cylindrical member for driving the rotation of the cylindrical member about the central axis. In accordance with another embodiment, the cleaning head includes an electrolysis cell (210) within the cylindrical member. The electrolysis cell comprises first and second electrodes (220 and 222), each comprising porous layers of conductive material.
A47L 11/34 - Machines for treating carpets in position by liquid, foam, or vapour, e.g. by steam
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 side brash 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 brash deck. The side brash assembly mechanism may include a biasing mechanism for lowering and extending the brush deck.
A floor surface maintenance 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 by used to control frequently used functions such as cleaning functions or operation of a horn, for example.
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.
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 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.
Device for dispensing a fragant, electrochemically-activated liquid, the devide comprising: an electrolysis cell configured to electrochemically activate the liquid and to diffuse one or more fragant compounds into the liquid to provide the fragant, electrochemically-activated liquid; a switch configured to be actuated between a first state and a second state, wherein the switch energizes the electrolysis cell in the first state and de-energizes the electrolysis cell in the second state; and a dispenser located downstream from the electrolysis cell and configured to dispense the fragant, electrochemically-activated liquid, whereby the electrolysis cell further comprises an ion exchange membrane disposed within the cell housing between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode.
Machines and methods for curing ultraviolet (UV)-curable coating materials. In one embodiment, the machine includes a UV radiation source having one or more lamps partially enclosed within a shroud of a curing head. The machine may further include a supplemental energy source located outside of the shroud. The supplemental energy source may illuminate an uncured area of the floor coating material that is beyond the curing head. In some embodiments, the supplemental energy source may reduce or prevent the partial curing of the coating material outside of the curing head resulting from stray UV energy.
B05D 3/06 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be applied; After-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by exposure to radiation
49.
WASHING SYSTEMS INCORPORATING CHARGED ACTIVATED LIQUIDS
A washing system (10, 110, 210, 510, 610, 710, 810) and method comprising forming a charged activated liquid, and operating a washing system (10, 110, 210, 510, 610, 710, 810) with the charged activated liquid.
An apparatus (10, 50, 80, 300, 500, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1700, 1810) and method are provided, in which and electroporatϊon electrode (35, 1614, 1714, 1828) is configured for example to apply an alternating electric field (E) through liquid (250, 302, 306, 308, 1414, 1504, 1917) dispensed from the apparatus to a surface or volume being treated (252, 304, 1506) and thereby cause electroporation of microorganisms in (256) contact with the liquid. The liquid may be suspended from the surface by charged nanobubbles and/or another mechanism to enhance application of the electric field (E) to the microorganisms.
A61L 2/22 - Phase substances, e.g. smokes, aerosols
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
51.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING ELECTRICAL CHARGE THROUGH A LIQUID HAVING ENHANCED SUSPENSION PROPERTIES
An apparatus (10, 50, 80, 300, 500, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500,1700, 1810) and method are provided. The method includes for example, treating a liquid in an apparatus to increase suspension properties of the liquid and dispensing the treated liquid (250, 302, 306, 308, 1414, 1504, 1917) from the apparatus to a surface or volume of space (252, 304, 1506) so as to create an electrically conductive path by the treated liquid from the apparatus to the surface or volume of space. During the step of dispensing, an alternating electric field (E) is generated from the apparatus to the surface or volume of space, through the liquid along the conductive path, wherein the electric field is sufficient to destroy at least one microorganism (256) from the surface or in the volume of space.
A61L 2/22 - Phase substances, e.g. smokes, aerosols
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
52.
ELECTROCHEMICALLY-ACTIVATED LIQUID FOR COSMETIC REMOVAL
A method (100) for removing a cosmetic substance (16), the method (100) comprising electrochemically activating a liquid, dispensing the electrochemically-activated liquid to a surface (14) containing the cosmetic substance (16), and applying factional wiping to the surface (14) containing the cosmetic substance (16) and the applied electrochemically-activated liquid.
An apparatus (10, 400, 500, 500', 700, 800, 980) is provided, which includes an electrolysis cell (18, 50, 80, 406, 552, 708, 804), a liquid flow path that passes through the electrolysis cell (18, 50, 80, 406, 552, 708, 804), and an indicator light (414, 416, 594, 596). The indicator light (414, 416, 594, 596) is illuminated as a function of an operating characteristic of the electrolysis cell (18, 50, 80, 406, 552, 708, 804) and luminous flux (522) radiated from the light (414, 416, 594, 596) illuminates liquid along at least a portion of the flow path.
An electrolysis cell (10) is provided, which includes an inlet (12, 63, 65), an outlet (36, 63, 65), and coaxial, cylindrical inner and outer electrodes (20, 22). A cylindrical ion- selective membrane (18) is located between the inner and outer electrodes (20, 22) and forms respective first and second electrolysis reaction chambers (14, 16) on opposing sides of the membrane (18). Fluid flow paths along the first and second chambers (14, 16) join together as a combined inlet flow path (70) through the inlet (12, 63, 65) and a combined outlet flow path (72) through the outlet (36, 63, 65).
A method and apparatus ( 10, 400, 500, 500', 700, 800, 980) are provided for performing electrolysis with an electrolysis with an electrolysis cell (18, 50, 80, 406, 552, 708, 804). The cell (18, 50, 80, 406, 552, 708, 804) includes an anode electrode and a cathode electrode (60, 62, 84, 100, 104, 108, 204, 206). At least one of the anode electrode or the cathode electrode (60, 62, 84, 86, 100, 104, 108, 204, 206) is at least partially formed of conductive polymer. The electrolysis cell is comprised in a hand-held spray bottle or a mobile surface cleaner.
A method and apparatus (10, 400, 500, 500', 700, 800, 980) are provided for passing water through an electrolysis cell (18, 50, 80, 406, 552, 708, 804) having an anode and a cathode (60, 62, 84, 86, 100, 104, 108, 204, 206) separated by an ion selective membrane (58, 208). The cathode has a larger surface area than the anode. The method includes: applying an energization voltage at a first polarity (300) to the anode and the cathode (60, 62, 84, 86, 100, 104, 108, 204, 206) to produce an anolyte liquid and a catholyte liquid (70, 72, 76); temporarily reversing the energization voltage to a second polarity for a short time duration (302) to reduce deposits on at least one of the anode or cathode (60, 62, 84, 86, 100, 104, 108, 204, 206) and then returning the energization voltage to the first polarity (300); and dispensing a substantially constant supply of the anolyte liquid from the anode chamber (54) and the catholyte liquid from the cathode chamber (56) during the applying and reversing steps, the supply of catholyte being greater than the supply of anolyte per unit of time.
A hand-held spray bottle (10, 400, 500, 500') is provided, which includes a liquid reservoir (12, 52, 88, 510), a liquid outlet (14, 74, 89, 508), an electrolysis cell (18, 50, 80, 406, 552, 708, 804), a power source (32, 402, 542) and a DC-to-DC converter (1004). The electrolysis cell (18, 50, 80, 406, 552, 708, 804) is carried by the spray bottle (10, 400, 500, 500') and is fluidically coupled between the reservoir (12, 52, 88, 510) and the liquid outlet (14, 74, 89, 508). The power source (32, 402, 542) is carried by the spray bottle (10, 400, 500, 500') and has a voltage output. The DC-to-DC converter (1004) is coupled between the voltage output and the electrolysis cell (18, 50, 80, 406, 552, 708, 804) and provides a stepped-up voltage, which is greater than the voltage output of the power source (32, 402, 542), to energize the electrolysis cell (18, 50, 80, 406, 552, 708, 804).
An electrolysis cell (18, 50, 80, 406, 552, 708, 804) is provided, which includes an anode electrode and a cathode electrode (60, 62, 84, 86, 100, 104, 108, 204, 206). At least one of the anode electrode or the cathode electrode (60, 62, 84, 86, 100, 104, 108, 204, 206) includes a first plurality of apertures (102, 106, 110) having a first size and/or shape and a second plurality of apertures (102, 106, 110) having a second, different size and/or shape.
An apparatus (10) and method are provided for generating an electrochemically-activated vapor, wherein a liquid is electrochemically activated in an electrolysis cell.
A method and apparatus are provided for energizing an electrolysis cell (10, 50, 72) receiving a liquid to be electrochemically activated and contacting the liquid with an exposed, conductive tip (104) of a voltage detector (120). The voltage detector (120) generates a humanly-perceptible indicator (106) as a function of charge movement sensed by the voltage detector (120) through the liquid.
An RFID system for a portable cleaning machine having RFID reader. Location of the machine within a floor field is achieved by detecting one or more of a plurality of floor-applied RFID tags as the cleaning machine traverses the floor field. Each RFID tag includes a tag carrier including visual indicia providing personnel with instructions or warnings or directions. An operator of the machine may reference the visual indicia of the RFID tag carriers as the machine traverses the floor field.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
An impeller assembly including a pair of plates with one of the plates having a plurality of blades and an interlock structure for aligning and coupling the plates together. A disclosed example of the interlock structure includes a plurality of latch members extending from one plate and locking into apertures of the other plate. The interlock structure may also include a plurality of channels engaging the blades. The blades of the impeller may engage a pair of latch members in a saddle manner. A method of using the impeller assembly within an air blower is also disclosed.
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.
An external filter box for a surface maintenance machine having a hopper with selective communication being provided between the filter box and the hopper to permit dusty air to flow from the hopper to the filter box and to permit dust and debris captured by the filter box to flow into the hopper. In one example, the hopper includes a prefilter assembly which is coupled to an inlet of the filter box during a sweeping operation and which is removed away from the filter box during a hopper dump procedure.
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 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 floor cleaning machine having a passive mapping system for determining position information associated with a plurality of RFID tags dispersed within a floor field during a floor cleaning process. The passive mapping system defines a floor map based on position information collected from the plurality of RFID tags. The floor map may be communicated to a remote map server and be utilized by a second floor cleaning machine during a different floor cleaning process. The mapping system can periodically update the floor map based on information collected during subsequent floor cleaning processes. The information may include RFID tag movement or replacement. In one embodiment, a remote mapping system communicates with a floor cleaning machine via wireless communication.
A machine and method of use for cleaning a floor surface by traversing the floor field with a floor cleaning machine having an RFID system and accessing a plurality of RFID tags within the floor field to determine a position of the cleaning machine within the floor field during a cleaning session. An electronic map may be generated by and/or stored on the floor cleaning machine or may be remotely accessed during the floor cleaning session. A variety of information relating to machine operation characteristics and/or performance can be collected during the cleaning session in combination with machine location information from the RFID system.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
71.
SOFT FLOOR PRE-SPRAY UNIT UTILIZING ELECTROCHEMICALLY-ACTIVATED WATER AND METHOD OF CLEANING SOFT FLOORS
A method is provided, which includes applying (502) electrochemically activated acid (620) and alkaline (622) water to a surface as a pre- spray, allowing the electrochemically activated acid (620) and alkaline water (622) to remain on the surface for a dwell time (503), and after the dwell time (503), performing a cleaning operation (504) on an area of the surface to which the pre- spray was applied.
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 method and apparatus (10, 102, 500) are provided for reducing an oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) of an electrochemically activated liquid (30, 32). The ORP is reduced by emitting ions from an ion generator (48, 112) into the electrochemically activated liquid (30, 32), wherein the ions have a charge polarity that is oppsite to the ORP of the liquid (30, 32). The electrochemically activated liquid may be dispensed to a surface and recovered from the surface by a mobile surface cleaner (400) before being treated.
A control system and method of use for controlling work output delivered to a floor surface by a work tool associated with a floor maintenance machine. The control system includes a hydraulic power source, a motor assembly coupled to the power source and the work tool, a pressure sensor in communication with the motor assembly, an actuator coupled to the work tool, and a controller in communication with the pressure sensor. A valve is configured to regulate the pressure provided by the power source and applied the actuator assembly. Based on a sensed pressure applied to the motor assembly, the controller causes the actuator assembly to adjust contact of the work tool with the floor surface. Work output delivered to the floor surface by the machine can be uniformly maintained during a cleaning period as the controller adjusts floor contact of the work tool via the hydraulic actuator.
A production system (10,110) and process (180, 196) comprising mixing electrochemically-activated liquid and feedstock granules to form a slurry, and producing alcohol from the slurry.
The present invention is directed to a threaded insert having an internal threaded surface and an external threaded surface. The threaded surfaces have threads that are threaded in opposite directions. Thus, if the internal threaded surface is a right handed thread, then the external threaded surface will be a left handed thread. Through the use of the opposite direction threads the insert counteracts torque applied to a threaded fastener as it is inserted or removed. This results in a threaded insert that both resists over tightening of the fastener, and assists in the removal of the fastener from the insert.
A mobile surface cleaner (100, 300, 370, 380, 500) and a method of producing sparged cleaning liquid (51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 59, 71, 93, 190, 192) are provided. The cleaner includes a mobile body (102, 306, 381) configured to travel over a surface (125, 302), a source of a liquid (14, 70, 106, 502), a liquid dispenser (194, 310, 352, 354, 362, 371, 506), a flow path (16, 17, 18, 59, 70, 71, 160, 1OA, 160B) from the liquid source to the liquid dispenser (194, 310, 352, 354, 362, 371, 506), and an electrolyzing sparging device (50, 161, 163, 325, 326, 503, 505) in fluid communication with the flow path (16, 17, 18, 59, 70, 71, 160, 1OA, 160B).
An apparatus (100, 300, 370, 380, 400, 500, 600) and method are provided for producing an electrochemically-activated liquid (20, 22, 44, 45, 51, 52, 71, 160, 190, 192). The apparatus includes a mobile body (102, 306, 381) configured to travel over a surface (125, 302), a source (14, 70, 106, 502, 602) of a liquid, a liquid dispenser (194, 310, 352, 354, 362, 371, 406, 506, 606) and a flow path (16, 17, 18, 59, 70, 71, 160, 160A, 160B) from the liquid source to the liquid dispenser. A functional generator (10, 40, 162, 324, 504, 604) is coupled in the flow path, which comprises an anode chamber (24) and a cathode chamber (26) separated by an ion exchange membrane (27, 43) and which electrochemically activates the liquid from the liquid source which is passed through the functional generator (10, 40, 162, 324, 504, 604).
A method and apparatus are provided for generating a sparged electrochemically activated liquid (51, 52, 55, 71, 160, 160A, 160B, 190, 192). The apparatus (62, 100, 150, 300, 370, 380, 400, 500, 600) includes a sparging device (50, 161, 163, 325, 326, 503, 505, 603, 605) and a functional generator (10, 40, 162, 324, 504, 604). The functional generator (10, 40, 162, 324, 504, 604) is in fluid communication with the sparging device (50, 161 , 163, 325, 326, 503, 505, 603, 605) and includes an anode chamber (24) and a cathode chamber (26) separated by an ion exchange membrane (27, 43).
A method and apparatus (100, 300, 370, 380, 400, 500, 600) are provided for receiving a cleaning liquid (14, 106, 502, 602) having a pH in a range between pH6-pH8 and an oxidation reduction potential (ORP) between 됙50mV. The liquid (14, 106, 502, 602) is converted into an anolyte liquid and a catholyte liquid (20, 22, 44, 45, 51, 52, 190, 192) having respective pHs outside of the range between pH6-pH8 and having respective ORPs outside the range between 됙50mV. The anolyte and catholyte liquids (20, 22, 44, 45, 51, 52, 190, 192) are applied to a surface (125, 302), wherein the anolyte and catholyte liquids (20, 22, 44, 45, 51, 52, 190, 192) are, for example, in a combined state on the surface (125, 302) and substantially neutralize to a pH between pH6-pH8 and an ORP between 됙50mV within one minute of the time at which the anolyte and catholyte liquids (20, 22, 44, 45, 51, 52, 190, 192) are converted.
A surface cleaning apparatus (100, 300, 370, 380, 500) is provided. The apparatus includes a mobile body (102, 306, 381) configured to travel over a surface (125, 302), a cleaning device (110, 112, 308, 314, 375, 385) carried by the mobile body (102, 306, 381), a liquid flow path (16, 17, 18, 59, 70, 71, 160, 160A, 160B), and an electrolyzing device (10, 40, 50, 161, 162, 163, 324, 325, 326, 503, 504, 505) in the liquid flow path (16, 17, 18, 59, 70, 71, 160, 160A, 160B). An indicator (708, 714) provides a humanly-perceptible indication (720) of an electrical operating characteristic of the electrolyzing device (10, 40, 50, 161, 162, 163, 324, 325, 326, 503, 504, 505).
A method and an apparatus of manufacturing airtight safety garments via ultrasonic welding, and more particularly, to a method and an apparatus of manufacturing safety garments by heating and melting synthetic fiber sheets at a melting point or higher via ultrasonic welding and then pressing the fiber sheets against each other to bond them together. The method includes: (a) feeding two fiber sheets; (b) automatically aligning edges of the fiber sheets so that the fiber sheets overlap partially with each other; (c) adjusting a height of a pattern roller according to a thickness of overlaps of the fiber sheets; and (d) transmitting energy to the pattern roller, by an ultrasonic generator, to weld and bond the overlaps of the fiber sheets.
A mobile surface maintenance machine (100) includes a mobile body (102) configured to travel over a surface (106), a motorized tool (110), a communicator (112), a memory (114), and a controller (116). The motorized tool is supported by the mobile body and configured to engage the surface. The communicator is configured to communicate over a network (176). The memory contains settings (180) for the machine. The controller is configured to modify the settings of the machine in response to setting information (190) received by the communicator over the network and to control operations of the machine based on the settings.
A hard floor sweeping and scrubbing machine (100) includes a mobile body comprising a frame (116) supported on wheels (118) for travel over a surface (120), a motorized cleaning head (104), a waste hopper (106), a hopper lift (108) and a vacuum squeegee (152). 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 (136) of the cleaning head and is configured to receive waste (128) discharged from the cleaning head during the surface sweeping operations. The hopper lift is configured to raise the waste hopper from an operating position (180), in which the waste hopper is positioned adjacent the cleaning head, to a dumping position (182), 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
A floor cleaner (100) configured to perform both hard and soft floor cleaning operations includes a mobile body (106), a motorized cleaning head (108), a cleaning liquid dispenser (110), a vacuum (112), a first vacuum extractor tool (114) and a vacuum squeegee (116) connected to the mobile body. The mobile body is configured to travel over a surface (102). The motorized cleaning head is connected to the mobile body and includes a cleaning tool (128). The cleaning liquid dispenser is configured to apply a cleaning liquid (230) to the surface or the cleaning tool. The first vacuum extractor tool is configured for vacuum communication with the vacuum through a first vacuum path (174).
A cleaning tool (100) generally comprises a hub (108) having a longitudinal axis (110) and a plurality of cleaning members (106). 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 (102) that includes a mobile body (150), the cleaning tool (100) and a motor (112) The mobile body supports the cleaning tool and the motor and is configured to travel over a surface (104). 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 (such as 114, 124 and 130) a data communication (200) is initiated from a communicator (110) of the mobile floor cleaner (100) 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 1/08 - Hand implements with provision for supplying liquids, e.g. cleaning agents
A47L 5/00 - Structural features of suction cleaners
A47L 11/00 - Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
G01C 22/00 - Measuring distance traversed on the ground by vehicles, persons, animals or other moving solid bodies, e.g. using odometers or using pedometers
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
87.
SECONDARY INTRODUCTION OF FLUID INTO VACUUM SYSTEM
An apparatus and method for minimizing the accumulation of soil and debris within a vacuum system of a surface maintenance machine is disclosed. A secondary fluid, such as pressurized cleaning solution, is sprayed into the vacuum system in order to reduce soil and debris accumulation within the vacuum system without applying additional fluid to a floor surface. In one embodiment of the invention, pressurized fluid is introduced directly into the vacuum extractor tool of a surface cleaning machine in order to dislodge accumulated debris on surfaces therein. A method of minimizing the accumulation of soil and debris within the vacuum system is also disclosed. The invention is applicable to a variety of portable and vehicle-based floor cleaning machines.
patents
