Escalator and Travelator Tread Cleaning Device and Method

Abstract

The disclosed invention utilizes deformable gaskets configured to form a seal which slides through the grooves and across the tops of escalator and travelator treads and using evacuation cleaning components as either a complete escalator and travelator tread cleaning machine or an accessory device configured to operate with an existing vacuum carpet evacuation apparatus. The disclosed gaskets in combination with evacuation and spray nozzle manifolds connected by escalator and travelator groove passages form a basic embodiment of the disclosed tread engagement assembly. In certain embodiments, the disclosed apparatus utilizes certain components of carpet evacuation equipment in combination with the disclosed v for cleaning escalator and travelator treads, including both the risers and treads of the escalator and travelator.

Description

RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER APPLICATIONS

This US “Bypass” application claims priority from PCT application serial number PCT/US2018/056952 filed on Oct. 22, 2018. PCT application serial number PCT/US2018/056952 claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional application Ser. No. 62/575,421 filed on 21 Oct. 2017. Through its priority from PCT application serial number PCT/US2018/056952, the present application is entitled to the benefit of U.S. Provisional application Ser. No. 62/575,421 filed on 21 Oct. 2017.

BACKGROUND

Escalators and moving walkways (also called travelators) pose unique technical challenges for effective cleaning. Escalators and travelators have an upper surface or tread constructed of parallel tread ribs separated by tread channels. The tread channels tend to capture and hold dust, dirt, and debris, and acquire stains such as from spilled drinks and oil. Escalator and travelator cleaning machines are expensive, bulky, heavy and complicated to operate. Current escalator and travelator cleaning devices suffer from a number of additional limitations and problems.

Various existing escalator and travelator cleaning machines use solutions or degreasers and rotating brushes, both of which may damage the finish on escalator and travelator treads. Operation of these cleaning machines may leak fluids into electrical, mechanical and safety switch components. Escalator and travelator cleaning machine brushes can scuff, scratch or dull the various finishes found on escalator and travelator treads. Commonly used yellow demarcation inserts, most often made out of polycarbonate, can be exposed to weakening, cracking, and eventually breaking once scratched or scuffed by current escalator and travelator cleaning methods.

Certain existing designs for escalator and travelator cleaning machines typically leave behind excessive amounts of the cleaning solutions on the escalator and travelator tread ribs and tread channels after operation.

Other machines and methods use an elongated foam sponge-like insert into the tread channels to clean it, and the foam sponge-like insert quickly becomes overloaded with collected debris such that frequent recess in the cleaning operation is required to apply a clean foam piece or to wash out the foam piece for re-use and in any case debris is allowed to pass by the sponge-like insert. Also, such an insert is largely ineffective for picking up solid material which will not adhere to the insert, but rather will pass by it or will accumulate in front of it.

Exemplary prior cleaning machines can be seen in U.S. Pat. No. 8,337,625 and US published application number 2105/0259178 the entire content of each of them being incorporated by reference herein. The original escalator is described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,535,501, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of an embodiment including the user controls and tread engagement assembly.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of an embodiment including the user controls and tread engagement assembly.

FIG. 3 shows a rear perspective view of an embodiment including the user controls and tread engagement assembly.

FIG. 4 shows a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the tread engagement assembly.

FIG. 5 shows a side section view of an embodiment of the tread engagement assembly taken through A-A of FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a single evacuation end gasket designed for escalator treads with approximately 34 ridges/ft. or 34 ridges/30.5 cm.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of a single evacuation end gasket designed for escalators with approximately 36 ridges/ft. or 36 ridges/30.5 cm.

FIG. 8 shows a front cross-section view of the interface between the vacuum gasket teeth and escalator grooves which includes as a selected embodiment, clearance of the gasket teeth on both sides and the bottom.

FIG. 9A shows a diagrammatic cross-section view of an embodiment of the tread engagement assembly during operation.

FIG. 9B shows a diagrammatic cross-section view of an alternative embodiment of the tread engagement assembly during operation.

FIG. 9C shows a diagrammatic cross-section view of an alternative embodiment of the tread engagement assembly during operation.

FIG. 9D shows a diagrammatic cross-section view of an alternative embodiment of the tread engagement assembly during operation.

FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the tread engagement assembly

FIG. 11 depicts a top view of an alternative embodiment of the tread engagement assembly.

FIG. 12 depicts a down escalator with an embodiment of the tread engagement assembly shown in use.

FIG. 13 depicts an up escalator with an embodiment of the tread engagement assembly shown in use.

FIG. 14 shows a diagrammatic side view of the rear vacuum gasket interface with the escalator groove and escalator comb during operation.

FIG. 15 shows a close-up of an escalator tread.

FIGS. 16A-16C show views of an alternative embodiment of the tread engagement assembly.

FIG. 17 shows a top view of a tread engagement assembly in use on an escalator step.

FIG. 18 shows a bottom view of a tread engagement assembly above and escalator tread.

FIG. 19 shows a front perspective view of the 100 Series embodiment or configuration of the wet vacuum evacuation cleaning system, including the tread engagement assembly and hand operated control assembly.

FIG. 20 shows a side view of the 100 Series embodiment or configuration of FIG. 20

FIG. 21 shows a direct front view of the 100 Series embodiment or configuration of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 shows a bottom view of the 100 Series embodiment or configuration of FIG. 20.

FIG. 23 shows a bottom perspective view of the 100 Series embodiment or configuration of FIG. 20.

FIG. 24 shows a front perspective view of the 100 Series embodiment or configuration tread engagement assembly.

FIG. 25 shows the cross-section “C-C” view from FIG. 21.

FIG. 25A shows a variation in which at least the front gasket does not reach into contact with the bottom of the tread groove allowing air to pass along the bottom of the tread groove.

FIG. 26 shows the cross-section “C-C” view from FIG. 21 in which the gaskets are tilted upwardly toward the front to allow an oncoming tread that is out of horizontal alignment

FIG. 26A shows a variation of FIG. 26 in which only the forward gasket is tilted upwardly forward toward the front to allow an oncoming tread that is out of horizontal alignment

FIG. 27 shows a schematic view of detail of tilted gaskets

FIG. 28 shows a schematic view of gaskets having an adjusted front edge.

FIG. 29 shows a perspective view of an exemplar forward or rear gasket for the 100 Series configuration.

FIG. 30 shows a scrubber brush assembly 118.

FIG. 31 shows the lower frame gasket 116 and 116A which in this embodiment integrates the above identified side skirt 16 with a holding framework 116A for the scrubbing brush assembly 118 (referred to as an “H” bar).

In FIG. 32 the cross-section “D-D” of FIG. 31 of the 100 series lower frame gasket and scrubbing brush assembly is shown.

FIG. 33 depicts a photograph of a portion of and exemplar scrubbing brush assembly.

FIG. 34 shows an exploded view of a 100 series embodiment of the wet vacuum evacuation cleaning system.

FIG. 35 shows a bottom perspective view of an exemplar tread engagement chassis 104 for a 100 series embodiment.

FIG. 36 shows a top perspective view of an exemplar tread engagement chassis 104 for a 100 series embodiment.

FIG. 37 shows a perspective view of cross-section C-C from FIG. 21.

FIG. 38 shows a direct front view of cross-section E-E from FIG. 19 of an exemplar 100 series embodiment of the tread engagement assembly showing the spray pattern.

FIG. 39 shows a diagrammatic side view of the rear vacuum gasket interface with the escalator groove and escalator comb during operation.

DESCRIPTION

In the following description, the subjects of the cleaning apparatus and system and method are both escalators and travelators. However, to allow easier grammatical description the term “escalator” will be used, and unless otherwise stated or distinguishable in the description, it includes both escalators and travelators. Escalators and travelators have such commonality in their tread construction that the embodiments described herein can be used for either and both. As will be understood from the following description, the device, system and method are operated at the exit end of an escalator and travelator. That means, for a descending escalator, the exit end is at the bottom and for an ascending escalator, the exit end is at the top. A travelator has but a single exit end.

For consistency, certain dimension directions need to be understood. The term “width” means side to side across the tread and across the apparatus embodiments as described. The terms “height” and “depth” and “thickness” mean a vertical direction relative to the tread and the term “length” means a front to back direction relative to the tread.

Certain terms for describing the tread construction of escalators and travelators are helpful for the following description. With reference to FIG. 15, there is illustrated an exemplary escalator tread in which the step 70 has a tread 72 that extends front to back and from side to side at the top of the step 70. The tread 72 is constructed of ribs, also called ridges 74 which are spaced apart to present channels also called grooves 26. The ridges 74 have a ridge top 61 and the grooves 26 have a groove floor 62. The ridges 74 have sides 76 which may be vertical or may taper toward the top, an exemplary taper may be 1½ degree and which along with the groove floor 62, forming the grooves 26. While this Figure shows an escalator step construction, the tread and ridge and groove descriptions also apply to travelators. As will be understood in the following descriptions, the dimensions of the ridges and grooves vary in different manufactures of escalators and travelators such that there may be more or fewer ridges/grooves along a lateral distance across the tread.

As used herein, the term “vacuum” means the suction or negative pressure generated by the cleaning apparatus and system creating air flow for the removal of debris and liquids during pressure wash cleaning implemented by the constructions and methods described herein.

The present invention accomplishes escalator and travelator groove cleaning by a pressurized spray of a liquid cleaning solution into the tread grooves which are adjacent to a vacuum spray manifold and a vacuum evacuation manifold thereby effecting vacuum evacuation of the liquid and debris mixed with the liquid. The apparatus and steps for accomplishing this will be described below. The apparatus for accomplishing the cleaning action is referred to as head unit or head assembly also referred to as a tread engagement assembly, which is the apparatus that contacts the escalator tread and operates to cause the cleaning. The head unit can be further integrated into a user control system by assembling it to a control assembly having a wand, operational controls and means for delivery of suction and water to the head unit which allows a user to control the operation. There are also ancillary elements that provide a suction source (also called a vacuum source), a water source and a waste containment means which are in contact with the user control assembly.

The invention further utilizes as part of the tread engagement assembly a forward or front gasket fitted at a forward periphery of the tread engagement assembly having teeth that in use will extend into the escalator grooves. A similar rearward or rear gasket is used at a rear periphery of the tread engagement assembly. The front and rear gaskets have in common a set of teeth separated by gasket grooves and the gasket grooves have a top surface wherein the gaskets provide the means for vertically fitting the tread engagement assembly on the tread. Also, the gaskets provide a “seal” in the sense that their teeth substantially fill the space of the groove, However, it can be appreciated that air passes by the gasket teeth in the grooves as the escalator treads move under the device. Also, in one embodiment, a space is provided at the bottom of the gasket teeth of the forward gasket to allow debris to pass more readily into the tread engagement assembly and to have a specific air flow under the gasket teeth. In another embodiment, the gasket teeth are longer than the depth of the groove and are sufficiently flexible that they bend as the bottom of the groove pulls them which also allows passage of debris and air flow under the gasket teeth. Nevertheless, flow of air along the sides of the gasket teeth is generally assumed.

As the tread grooves pass under the tread engagement assembly, the portion of the tread grooves that is between the front and rear gasket is defined as the escalator groove passage. Notably because the tread engagement assembly extends laterally across a number of tread grooves, there will at any time a plurality of vacuum tread grooves in communication with the vacuum spray manifold and the vacuum evacuation chamber thereby enabling cleaning of the tread grooves.

In the embodiment now described, the tread engagement assembly has a forward manifold portion also referred to as a vacuum spray manifold and a rear manifold portion also referred to as a vacuum evacuation manifold (referred to as the tread engagement assembly manifolds). The vacuum spray manifold and the vacuum evacuation manifold are in open communication with each other through the vacuum escalator groove passages, and the suction source is in direct communication to the vacuum evacuation manifold. The vacuum spray manifold is located in a forward part of the apparatus and is equipped with spray nozzles which direct liquid cleaner into the vacuum escalator grooves to dislodge debris. The vacuum evacuation manifold is located behind the vacuum spray manifold and is connected to the suction source which evacuates the liquid cleaner and debris. Both the vacuum spray manifold and the vacuum evacuation manifold are in the open vacuum communication via the plurality of escalator groove passages as they pass between the front and rear gaskets and are in the vacuum condition caused by the suction source. As will be seen the vacuum condition is enhanced by structures of the apparatus that define closure or sealing of the tread engagement assembly and also by the ridges and grooves in cooperation with the closure or sealing structures

The tread engagement assembly is equipped with the front and the rear gaskets and with side skirts as defined in exemplary detail below, such that when it is placed on an escalator tread the gaskets and skirts along with the ridges and grooves close the manifolds and the connecting escalator groove passages and establish the vertical positioning of the tread engagement assembly on the tread. When the tread engagement assembly is fitted to a tread, the spaces of the grooves as they pass under it, then forming moving escalator groove passages, communicating the vacuum between the manifolds. In that way the sprayed liquid and the debris that are in the grooves are subject to the suction as part of a whole vacuum space. It is understood that a construction as described herein would not actually “close” the tread engagement assembly in a technical sense, as the tread passes under the tread engagement assembly, but rather would then have air flow into the tread engagement assembly caused by the suction (called suction flow) and the fit of the gaskets to the grooves. By controlling flow of air to largely pass into and along the grooves as part of the moving groove passages, the liquid and debris is available to be sucked into the vacuum evacuation manifold portion and then into evacuation. It will be understood that the sprayed cleaning mixture will release and carry debris in the grooves and air flow passing into the grooves will carry that liquid and debris from the groove passages into the vacuum evacuation manifold and then into the exiting suction flow. Of course, there is likely to be debris that is not mixed with the liquid, but that too will be carried into the suction flow and disposed of.

As it will be typically implemented the apparatus will be assembled into a system by being connected to a suction motor and removal apparatus typically accompanied by a holding and directing handle and having control means. In one embodiment of the system the apparatus can be made to attach to a commercial vacuum liquid cleaning evacuation assembly, an example of which is made by Karcher Pty Ltd 40 Koornang Road Scoresby Victoria, AU 3179 designated the BR 47/35 Esc.

The sealing effect and the creation of the suction flow is accomplished by the toothed gaskets at the front and rear of the apparatus in which when the apparatus is placed on the tread, teeth of the gaskets extend into the grooves, and top surfaces between the teeth contact the top of the ridges. Thus, that contact with the top of the ridges controls the vertical positioning of the apparatus on the tread. The teeth then fill the grooves to a selected extent. Also, side skirts on the lateral ends of the tread engagement assembly close off the lateral ends of the tread engagement assembly manifolds, understanding that this is not absolute sealing, but relative sealing that keeps the suction in the desired controlled space for cleaning. Notably, regardless of the selected dimensioning of the teeth and the skirts to fit to the tread, with the escalator tread moving, air will flow.

As used herein, the term “seal” or “sealing” may refer to a range of air or fluid pressure resistant mating between two surfaces. In this disclosure, this term most commonly refers to the interface between the apparatus gaskets and the skirts to the escalator tread surfaces which they contact as will be explained below.

The disclosed gaskets in combination with the vacuum spray manifold and the vacuum evacuation manifold form a basic embodiment of the disclosed tread engagement assembly and method such that as the tread grooves pass by them, the portion within the space they define are the escalator groove passages.

In various embodiments, certain portions of the apparatus gaskets and escalator tread surfaces may fit such that the gasket conforms into contact with the tread surfaces or may be in minimal contact or may contact some surfaces and not others or may touch each other intermittently during operation. Further as noted, the relative movement of the escalator tread and the gasket will allow air to pass through regardless of the fit of the gasket into the escalator grooves. In short, operation of the apparatus and method expects and depends on air flow past the front gasket teeth to flow in the grooves and ultimately, with the liquid and the debris into the suction disposal.

In various embodiments, the gaskets will have deformable teeth designed to fit into the escalator grooves. In various configurations, the teeth are square or rectangular cross-section shape or may be tapered. Individual gasket teeth are shaped to maintain a maximum level of suction by deforming to seal against the top of the ridges and the sides of the ridges which define the grooves. In some embodiments, the front and rear gaskets will have selected different shape and/or construction, such as of rigidity, flexibility and resilience to perform in a manner appropriate to their location and the desired mode of performance. For example, in one embodiment, the teeth of the front gasket may be flexible, or they may be shorter than the depth of the groove, while the rear gasket may be a closer fit and more rigid to avoid allowing any debris to pass.

In operation, the apparatus is set in place on the escalator tread with the gasket teeth set into the grooves to provide the correct vertical and lateral positioning. The apparatus is allowed to be carried with the escalator tread movement into contact with the escalator comb plate where it will be maintained in place as the escalator treads pass under it. Then in operation the cleaning is performed as will be more fully described below. As already noted, in some embodiments, the tread grooves are tapered, and the gasket teeth can be shaped for the desired type of fit.

Also, as described below, the side skirt members are used to increase suction or negative pressure and improve sealing of the tread assembly manifolds against the escalator tread during operation.

Also, as described below, a separation pad is utilized to separate the forward vacuum spray manifold from the rear vacuum evacuation manifold thereby to increase the penetration of cleaning fluids for effective cleaning between escalator ridges.

In various embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and its assembly into a system, the following various evacuation components are utilized:

a. Solution Tank: Tank for storing cleaning solution or rinse water. Typically, solution tanks range in size from 4.5 gallons (17 liters) to 17 gallons (64 liters).
b. Recovery Tank: Tank for storing extracted dirt, cleaning chemicals, and recovered liquids. Typically, recovery tanks range in size front 4.5 gallons (17 liters) to 17 gallons (64 liters).
c. Pump: The pump component such as for example, of a carpet evacuation machine, whether portable or truck mounted, generates the pressure to inject water or cleaning solution through a manifold and spray nozzles onto the escalator treads and into the grooves, to remove or loosen dirt and grease. Pressures of between about 60 pounds per square inch (psi) and 500 psi are typically generated by the exemplary pump component.
d. heating Unit: An optional heating unit component heats the cleaning solution or rinse water to temperatures as high as 210° F. in as little as three minutes. Heating elements can range from single tank-heating models, which heat liquids in the solution tank, to double inline heating elements, Which heat liquid as it exits the machine.

The disclosed tread engagement assembly utilizes an array of high-pressure spray nozzles located in the vacuum spray manifold which span the width of the tread engagement assembly and are aimed to spray into the escalator treads grooves. This allows the array of spray nozzles to power wash deep into the grooves of the moving escalator's treads. The spray may use a cleaning solution to aid in the pressure washing to dislodge the dust, dirt, oil, grease and other debris that accumulates deep within the escalator treads. The spray may be fully liquid or may be an aspirated or aerosol spray. Vacuum or suction is then utilized to remove the cleaning solution, along with the debris, providing clean treads, without the need to turn off the escalator and without the need for specialized or expensive capital equipment purchases and without the need for specialized training. This mode of cleaning avoids the damage associated with bristle brushes, the inconvenience of removing and cleaning or replacing foam inserts that have become overloaded with debris and minimizes excess cleaning solution remaining on the escalator treads or leaking into the catch pan beneath the escalator treads after cleaning.

As described below, an embodiment of the apparatus and method of the invention allows the portion that operates on the tread that is the tread engagement assembly to be an accessory for an otherwise standard evacuation cleaning machine. Many types of evacuation cleaning machines are currently available which are generally designed for use on carpet. These machines have various levels of available spray pressures and various levels of vacuum or suction generated. Certain machines have the capability to heat the liquid cleaning solution. Exemplary of such machines is the SKU # TPL-12-100-CE-TCP device made by Clean Freak.com of Wausau, Wis. Various embodiments of the apparatus and method disclosed herein are intended to function with assorted currently available evacuation cleaning machines as an accessory. Other embodiments are designed as stand-alone cleaning machines which include all necessary components.

Below, embodiments of the invention will be described with relation to the figures.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 exemplary embodiments are shown of a wet vacuum evacuation cleaning system 1 which includes a tread engagement assembly 2, and a hand operated control assembly 3. The tread engagement assembly 2 has a chassis 4, a front gasket 5A, a rear gasket 5B and a vacuum outlet 6 (with more details to be described below). The hand operated control assembly 3 include a wand 7, a handle 8, a pressurized liquid delivery conduit 9 a disposal outlet 10 and a liquid delivery control valve 11. The wand 7 being hollow and acting as an evacuation flow conduit. The pressurized liquid delivery conduit 9 includes a bifurcated portion 9A and 9B to deliver fluid into the tread engagement assembly 2 at connection points 15A and 15B. Also shown (FIG. 1 only) are ancillary elements; vacuum source 80 and evacuation disposal tank 81 that are available to be connected to the evacuation disposal outlet 10 and a pressurized cleaning liquid source 82 that is available for connection to the pressurized liquid delivery conduit 9.

FIG. 4 shows a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the tread engagement assembly 2. including a chassis 4 having a vacuum spray manifold 20 that extends the width of the chassis 4 and includes a series of spray nozzles 12, which are set to expel an exemplary cleaning liquid spray pattern 27. The chassis 4 also has a vacuum evacuation manifold 22 that extends inside the width of the chassis 4 coextensively with the vacuum spray manifold 20 and which is in communication with the vacuum outlet 6. Between the vacuum spray manifold 20 and the vacuum evacuation manifold 22 is a vacuum bridge pad 18. At the lateral terminations of the vacuum spray manifold 20 and the vacuum evacuation manifold 22 are side skirts 16 which in this embodiment are separate from the bridge pad 18, but which could be integral with the bridge pad 18. The bridge pad 18 and the side skirts 16 are coplanar so as to rest in use on the top of the tread ridges 74 of the tread 72. Located along the width of the front of the chassis 4 is a front vacuum gasket 5A and located along the width of the rear of the chassis 4 is a rear vacuum gasket 5B. Between the front and rear vacuum gaskets 5A/5B is a space which in use will define a vacuum escalator groove passage 14. Directed at an angle upwardly is a vacuum outlet 6 The array of spray nozzles 12 direct the spray pattern 27 into the grooves of escalator treads as will be further explained below. As will also be more fully explained below, the vacuum spray manifold 20, and the vacuum evacuation manifold 22 will be in communication with a laterally extending plurality of adjacently extending tread grooves 26 such that they will combine with the vacuum escalator groove passages 14 defined by each tread grove 26. Therefore, in effect there will be two spaces under vacuum in the tread engagement assembly 2; one portion being a vacuum spray manifold 20 which contains the spray nozzles 12 and the vacuum evacuation manifold 22 which is in communication with the vacuum outlet 6. In operation, those two manifolds are separated by the bridge 18 which seals to the top of the ridges. The spray nozzles 12 may be oriented to direct the spray at a selected angle into the tread grooves 26 for example directing the spray pattern 27 forward, rearward or directly downward. The escalator treads pass underneath the array of spray nozzles 12, the spray pattern exiting from the spray nozzles 12 going into the tread grooves 26 causing the dirt, oil and debris to be dislodged and carried in the spray liquid for evacuation. Suction generated by the ancillary element vacuum source 80 passed through the wand 7 and into the vacuum evacuation manifold 22 removes the dirt, oil and debris that has been dislodged by the spray as well as the spray itself. from the vacuum escalator groove passages 14 via the vacuum evacuation manifold 22. It is therefore seen that the suction operates commonly in effect in the vacuum evacuation manifold 22, the vacuum spray manifold 20 and each of the vacuum escalator groove passages 14 on which the tread engagement assembly 2 has been positioned.

The array of spray nozzles 12 is configured to clean the grooves 26, to remove the dust, dirt, stains and grease that normally accumulates in them. The sprayed liquid is beneficially mixed with a formulated cleaning solution. The spray nozzles 12 may be angled forward or backward up to 15 degrees either way or vertically in various embodiments.

Maximum suction is generated with the assistance of the front and rear vacuum gaskets 5A and 5B that seal most of the vacuum from leaking from between the tread grooves. Whether the vacuum gaskets 5A and 5B are made out of foam, sponge, plastic, rubber, or other materials, the object of these components is to form an optimally effective seal against the escalator treads and optimize the allowed suction air flow past them for effective removal of debris and liquids. The gaskets 5A and 5B also effect positioning and guiding of the tread engagement assembly 2 by aligning it in the treads and setting the vertical positioning on the tread ridges.

The fitting of the vacuum gaskets 5A and 5B is selected for different manners of operation. Those variously selectable fitting options may be the same for both the forward and rear vacuum gaskets or they may differ so as to accommodate different functions to be served by the front and rear vacuum gaskets. The vacuum gaskets, whether rubber, foam or sponge, and whether hydrophobic, hydrophilic, oleophilic, open cell, close cell, or made out of any other material, may in various embodiments either barely touch (i.e. skimming) the bottom of the tread grooves, be longer than the depth of the tread grooves, or ride a selected distance above the bottom of the tread grooves. They may be of the same fitting or they may have different fitting selected. The vacuum gaskets may also be thicker or thinner depending on the particular gasket material used and the desired rigidity. If constructed of a simple rubber elastomer, the gaskets may be as thin as 1/16 inch. If the gaskets are constructed of a foam material, irrespective of density, ILD, porosity, open cell or closed cell, whether hydrophilic, hydrophobic, or oleophilic, the gaskets should be thicker, generally ranging in size in a range from about ¼ inch to 4 inches. Regardless of the configuration of the gasket teeth relative to the width and depth of the tread grooves, the gasket teeth are spaced apart so that the top of the opening is an upper surface 21C (see FIGS. 6, 7 and 8) which controls the vertical contact of the apparatus to the tread by contacting the top 61 of the tread. In any case the top of the opening between the teeth will contact against the top of the ridges.

The suction generated by the ancillary suction source is channeled through the vacuum nozzle and into the vacuum evacuation manifold 22 of the device, opposite from where the spray nozzles 12 dislodge the dirt and oil in the vacuum spray manifold 20. The suction that is generated in the vacuum evacuation manifold 22 is supplemented by the high-pressure spray occurring on the opposite side, in the vacuum spray manifold 20. This directional push & pull effect helps drive the cleaning solution, and debris that has been dislodged at a directionally guided high rate of velocity, assisting in the better and more complete removal of the liquid solution and, in more completely removing the dirt and oil that has been dislodged.

Front and rear vacuum gaskets 5A and 5B are utilized to help maintain maximum suction and to create maximum lift in order to remove the liquid cleaning solution and debris mixture.

The side skirts 16 are also be incorporated on both sides of the tread engagement assembly 2 to help further seal in more suction from being lost during the cleaning process.

The vacuum bridge 18 is utilized to help separate the vacuum spray manifold 20 from the vacuum evacuation manifold 22 which provides a more focused spray trajectory to help clean deeper in the tread grooves and to allow the vacuum on the other side to pull the sprayed liquid and dislodged dirt and oil through the tread grooves before being removed by the vacuum. This is aided by controlling as much as possible air flow to pass through the front gasket teeth so as to cause the liquid and debris to pass from the common vacuum escalator groove passages portion 14.

FIG. 5 shows a cutaway side view of A-A in FIG. 2 of an embodiment of the tread engagement assembly 2 including various components as described such as the spray nozzles 12, vacuum gaskets 5A and 5B, vacuum spray manifold 20, vacuum evacuation manifold 22, the space between the vacuum gaskets 5A and 5B to be occupied by the vacuum escalator groove passages 14, the vacuum outlet 6, the side gasket 16, and vacuum bridge pad 18. An exemplary spray pattern 27 as shown is directly downward. Also FIG. 5 shows the liquid connection fixtures 15A/15B which opens into the cleaning fluid manifold 17.

Generally, cleaning is performed while the escalator is in motion. The process takes advantage of the escalator's motion to effectuate the cleaning process while allowing the operator to stand in one position. The cleaning process is thus performed simply and with minimal effort by the operator while the treads pass underneath and through the disclosed cleaning device.

Many alternative embodiments are available. For example, when the apparatus is used as an accessory component for carpet evacuation cleaning machines, the configuration may be adapted to fit particular machine brands and models. Other alternative embodiments or design variations include:

Device Width Variations

a. An exemplary embodiment of the wet vacuum evacuation system would have a tread engagement to be 15 inches wide. Other widths can be implemented. The range of widths may vary from 10 inches wide to a maximum of about 53 inches, with the likely most popular versions between 15 inches and 20 inches wide. Escalator treads are made in a variety of widths which commonly are 600 mm (approx. 24 inch), 800 mm (approx. 32 inch) and 1000 mm (approx. 40 inch). Also 900 mm width is available. The tread engagement assembly would in its most convenient and effective configuration have a width that would be less than the tread width under cleaning operation. Therefore, the procedure to be used would be to set the assembly in place, have it operate through a full cycle of the escalator, then move the assembly and run it for another cycle for as many cycles are needed to clean the entire width of the tread. Some overlap is recommended.

Spray Nozzle and Manifold Variations

a. In various embodiments, multiple spray nozzle options and spray nozzle patterns are available. Optional characteristics may include the distance between each nozzle, the spray pattern of each nozzle and the correlating number of nozzles used. The spray manifold may be of differing shapes, materials, construction and configurations. The vacuum spray manifold may also be integrated (molded) into the body of the device instead of being implemented as a separate, removable component as shown in the figures. The vacuum spray manifold may also have adjustability to adjust the angle of the spray nozzles, and/or, to adjust the distance from the tread grooves being cleaned. The direction of the spray is selected, typically at a fixed angle, although an adjustable mechanism may be implemented to provide adjustment of the spray angle. Exemplary spray angles are, forward (toward the oncoming tread), vertical (straight down) and rearward (in the direction of tread movement).

Optional separation of the tread engagement assembly manifolds by the bridge pad or ridge polisher:

a. The bridge pad component is intended to help guide or force liquid pressurized spray from the vacuum spray manifold, through the tread grooves, underneath the bridge pad and into the vacuum evacuation manifold on the other side carrying with it the loosened debris. Stability of the system while in use is accomplished with several general points of contact with the moving treads. The points of contact are the front and rear vacuum gaskets, the bridge pad mounted near the center of the device and the side skirts at each lateral end of the chassis. Without a bridge pad and separation between the vacuum spray manifold and the vacuum evacuation manifold, the spray nozzles would still reach the bottom of the tread grooves and clean them, and the vacuum would still pick up the majority of the dirt and debris, though most likely not quite as effectively as with the separation of the tread engagement assembly manifolds. Thus, the use of the bridge pad is an optional configuration for enhancing performance. The material for the bridge pad may have abrasive properties, to allow it to polish the tops of the tread ridges, which are usually raw metal and often need more aggressive surface cleaning.

Front and rear vacuum gasket variations (shape, materials and dimensions):

a. Although a semi-soft, or flexible material such as sponge, or foam is advantageous, a harder material such as rubber, or even plastic may be used. The width, height, length, depth or construction of the pads, including their overall dimensions, all have some level of variability and flexibility. The depth of the vacuum gasket teeth can be at the same depth as the depth of the groove they fit into, to minimize vacuum loss or, can be left slightly longer, in order to allow them to flex and aid in the sealing of the vacuum, while still allowing dirt and debris to pass through as they flex, much like a windshield wiper blade or, can glide just above the very bottom of the tread grooves in order to allow debris to pass under them. There is also the option of using two (2) rubber vacuum gaskets on one side, or the other, or both, which would also function similarly to double blade windshield wipers, in order to create a vacuum seal, yet still be pliable enough to flex and potentially allow the dirt and debris to pass by them, while maintaining a good vacuum seal.
b. If flexible foam is utilized as the vacuum gasket, it may be hydrophilic, hydrophobic, open cell or closed cell and, made in various degrees of rigidity, flexibility, ILD, compression, and porosity. Irrespective of what material, or what shape is selected, the intent remains the same; to create the best possible vacuum seal on a moving escalator, while still allowing the treads to pass through their shape without issue.
c. Various embodiments may use specialized foam and sponge materials which are designed not to absorb water or are considered as hydrophobic. These specialized foam materials may be designed to only absorb oil effectively, helping to remove any oil residue often found on escalators, especially deep in the tread grooves.

The vacuum gaskets 5A and 5B, irrespective of material, depth of their teeth or details are configured to match the pattern and dimensions of escalator tread. They have two functions, one is to define the sealing and air flow permitted into the vacuum groove passages 14 and the other is to establish the vertical positioning of the tread engagement assembly 2 on the tread. FIGS. 6 and 7 show two embodiments of the vacuum gasket with square or rectangular cross-sectioned teeth 21 designed to fit to specific escalator tread models. In FIG. 6 a vacuum gasket 5C designed to fit a particular escalator tread pattern is shown with a tooth spacing 94 of 34 ridges/ft. or 34 ridges/30.5 cm. In FIG. 7 a vacuum gasket 5D designed to fit a particular escalator tread pattern is shown with a tooth spacing 94 of 36 ridges/ft. or 36 ridges/30.5 cm. The teeth 21 are separated by a space between each one defined by a top surface 21C. It is the top surface 21C that contacts the ridge tops 61 to control the vertical positioning. Also shown are holes 30 through which fasteners will extend to secure the vacuum gaskets to the chassis.

FIG. 8 shows a front cross section view of an embodiment with a vacuum gasket 5A/B and escalator grooves 26 and ridges 28 as shown. In this embodiment, the gasket tooth 21A/B side edges have clearance on the sides between the gasket and the escalator groove to allow the grooves to move more freely through the gasket teeth during operation. Of course, the top surface 21C separating the teeth of the gasket is in contact with the ridge top 61 since that is how the tread engagement assembly is set on the tread for the vertical positioning. Shown is a clearance 31 between the bottom 33 of the vacuum gasket tooth 21A/B and the bottom of the escalator tread groove 26. Some escalator tread ridges are tapered for example with the ridge tapering upward at for example 1.5 degrees on each side. That tapering then, can be taken into account by a design of the gasket 5A/5B for whatever the mode of fit is desired. In some embodiments of the fit of the gasket in relationship to the escalator grooves and ridges, the gasket may be dimensioned to fit with more than one manufacture of escalator grooves and ridges. For example, a conforming fit can be achieved with a material of the gasket that is soft enough to conform to different groove sizes.

FIGS. 9A-D schematically depict various alternative embodiments of the tread engagement assembly 2 and the tread 72. For example, in FIG. 9A an embodiment where the gasket 5A/B is formed of a deformable material with teeth 21A and 21B which extend into the escalator grooves and are of such height as to be spaced above the bottom 26 of the groove during operation as shown, that is in this embodiment the teeth 21A and 21B are shorter than the depth of the grooves. This cross-section diagram depicts the cleaning process including the airflow and debris removal. Here, the body of the tread engagement assembly 2 is shown butted against the top of escalator ridges 61 The teeth 21A and 21B of the vacuum gaskets 5A/B extend into the escalator grooves 26, upon which debris particles 40A and oily residues 41A have been lodged. During operation, high pressure cleaning fluid spray 27 is directed into the vacuum spray manifold 20 by the spray nozzles 12 and into the escalator grooves which in operation define the vacuum groove passages 14 (noting that the vacuum spray manifold 20 and the vacuum evacuation manifold 22 become a common space with each of the plurality of vacuum escalator groove passages 14 along the lateral extent of the tread engagement assembly 2). Therefore, the groove passage 14 is a distance between the front gasket 5A and the rear gasket 5B. The cleaning spray 27 impinging against the groove surfaces dislodges the debris 40A and oils 41A, which are then sucked up into vacuum escalator groove passages 14. Air flow 25A assists in dislodging the debris 40A and oils 41A as it moves under the vacuum gasket 5A at the front of the apparatus. In this embodiment, the front and rear vacuum gaskets 5A and 5B are just long enough to reach close to but spaced above the bottom 28 of the escalator groove. Air flow 25A assists in dislodging the debris 40A and oils 41A as it moves under the vacuum gasket 5A at the front of the apparatus. As seen in the schematic FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C and 9D the debris before being sucked into the vacuum stream are designated as 40A and 41B and after being dislodged and moving along with the cleaning solution are designated as 40B and 41B. In this embodiment, the spray nozzle 12F is directed at an angle towards the front of the assembly. Note that the dimensions depicted in FIG. 9A are intended to be diagrammatic and not accurate to physical dimensions or proportions.

FIG. 9B schematically shows an alternative embodiment cross-section of a tread engagement assembly 2 during operation. In this alternative embodiment, the front and rear vacuum gaskets 5A and 5B are just long enough to contact the bottom 28 of the escalator groove. In this embodiment, the gasket teeth move freely and may bend as shown during operation against irregularities in the groove bottom, when dislodging debris, or by the suction action of the vacuum 25C. In a variation, the cleaning spray may be aspirated or aerated to provide enough gas volume input into the manifolds and through the vacuum escalator groove passages to help transport the dislodged debris and fluids into the vacuum evacuation manifold and to the disposal tank.

FIG. 9C schematically shows an alternative embodiment cross-section of the tread engagement assembly 2 during operation. In this embodiment, the gasket teeth 21A and 21B are longer than the groove depth, which may act to increase seal consistency against the tread and provide a mechanical force to assist in the removal of debris from the groove.

FIG. 9D schematically shows an alternative embodiment cross-section of a tread engagement assembly 2 during operation. In this alternative embodiment, the front vacuum gasket 5A and rear vacuum gasket 5B teeth 21A and 21 B may be different heights (as shown for example). In the embodiment shown, the front vacuum gasket teeth 21A has clearance 31 above the bottom of the escalator groove. The total depth of the groove is shown 30. In an exemplary embodiment, the clearance 31 from the front gasket 5A teeth 21A to the groove bottom 26 is in a range of about 1/16 inch to ¼ inch and preferably about ⅛ inch, and a total groove depth typically is ½ inch. In other embodiments, both the front and rear gaskets may have the same clearance above the bottom of the groove.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of tread engagement assembly 2. In this embodiment, a bracket 36 and thumb screws 35 are utilized to affix the gaskets to the assembly and provide for simplified device cleaning and gasket replacement. Identified is the chassis 4.

FIG. 11 shows a top view of the embodiment from FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 depicts the operation of the cleaning assembly 2 on a “down” 90 escalator 50D. Although not shown, when operating the device, the user first attaches vacuum and liquid cleaner sources to the assembly. Then the assembly 2 is pushed 91 into the grooves of the escalator. Note that the gasket chosen for the escalator must match the particular escalator groove characteristics. As detailed above, two common escalator configurations include 36 teeth/ft and 38 teeth/ft. For the down escalator shown, the assembly is positioned just in front of the escalator combs 65 and then is allowed to be moved by the escalator tread into contact with the combs 65, whereby then the escalator tread continues to move under the assembly and the cleaning operation can commence. To operate the cleaning action, first the vacuum and then the spray are initiated. As the escalator operates, the cleaning assembly moves from tread to tread utilizing the driving power 92 of the escalator alone, which holds the assembly against the escalator comb and the tread moves under the assembly which operates as described.

FIG. 13 depicts the operation of the tread engagement assembly 2 on an “up” 93 escalator 50U. The assembly 2 is pushed into the grooves of the escalator. For the up escalator shown, the assembly is positioned just in front of the escalator combs 65. To operate the cleaning action, first the vacuum and then the spray are initiated. As the escalator operates, the disclosed cleaning assembly moves from tread to tread utilizing the driving power 92 of the escalator alone, which pushes the assembly against the escalator comb 65.

FIG. 14 schematically depicts the operation within the escalator grooves shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. The ridge top 61, tread groove 26 and bottom 62 of the tread groove 26 are shown. Whether operated at the top of an up escalator or the bottom of a down escalator, the assembly teeth 21B of the rear gasket 5B are placed within the grooves and butt up against the escalator comb 65 during the operation of the device and the escalator, which pushes the device in the direction 64 of the combs 65 whereby the tread engagement assembly 2 is held in its operating position for the escalator or travellator to pass under it.

FIGS. 16A-16C show views of an alternative embodiment which utilizes 3 inch wide, flexible oleophilic foam vacuum gaskets 13, which may be used in combination with or instead of the typically thinner vacuum gaskets 5A and 5B. Similar to the disclosed deformable vacuum gaskets 5, their primary function is to create the vacuum seal and, in an oleophilic design, does not pick up any water, but absorbs and removes oil and oil residues. As with the forward vacuum gasket, these deformable vacuum gaskets 13 may be slightly spaced above the bottom of the tread grooves. However, for best removal of oil they would preferably be in contact with the bottom of the grooves.

FIGS. 17 and 18 show a prototype embodiment of the tread engagement assembly 2 viewed from above and below on an escalator tread 72. In FIG. 17 various components are shown including the vacuum outlet 6, and pressurized liquid delivery conduit 9. In FIG. 18 various components of the tread engagement assembly 2 are shown including the vacuum outlet 6, side skirt gasket 16, bridge pad 18, and spray nozzles 12 in a spray manifold 20 and a vacuum evacuation manifold 22.

Various embodiments are operable for one or both directions of escalator travel. An advantage of bi-directional cleaning is that the device cannot jam or in any way adversely affect the escalator combs or any of the safety switches that operate off of the combs.

In various embodiments, the cleaning solution may be water, a soap or solvent based liquid, and may contain particulate abrasives.

In an alternative embodiment, no cleaning fluids are used. This embodiment is intended to be used as an accessory for a standard vacuum cleaner instead of a carpet evacuation machine or as a stand-alone escalator vacuum cleaner. In this embodiment, similarly to use in conjunction with an evacuation machine, front and rear vacuum gaskets are used which penetrate into escalator grooves to maintain a seal against the escalator tread and maximize suction. Optional side skirt gaskets may also be used. In this embodiment, a single manifold is formed between the gaskets underneath the vacuum nozzle. The primary object of this vacuum-only embodiment is for the removal of loose dust, dirt and debris from the tread grooves with just a vacuum cleaner and the disclosed embodiment accessory device.

Alternative embodiments, hereinafter referred to as the 100 series configuration implements a number of both new features and more specific features relative to the prior description.

One new feature is use of a scrubber brush assembly 118 situated within the same area previously defined as the vacuum, bridge pad 18 which extends across the width of and between a spray manifold 120 and an vacuum evacuation manifold 122 inside the chassis of the tread engagement assembly. The brush assembly 118 includes a brush 196 that extends into a vacuum groove passage. The scrubber brush assembly 118 implements the function of scrubbing the tread groove bottoms 126 across the width of the tread being cleaned as the tread passes under them. This provides strong friction and dislodgement in the grooves of debris. In its assembly, it still functions as a vacuum bridge by directing flow through the vacuum escalator groove passage 114. The process also serves to “self-clean” the brush bristles because of the strong flow through the bristles.

Another feature appreciates that the rear gasket when engaged with the escalator combs to keep the entire devise in place, needs to have sufficient structural integrity and rigidity and strength to do so. Therefore, the rear gasket needs a length (front to back) in the range of about ½ inch to 4 inches. For non-foam materials that provide a higher density and rigidity including for example, rubber, plastic, silicone material, the range of length can be about ½ inch to 1½ inches. Vacuum flow of air may well occur across the rear gasket; however the primary flow of air is intended to occur across the front gasket so as to direct debris contained in the cleaning fluid flow into the evacuation manifold.

The front gasket has the function of providing the seal and vacuum flow of air to implement the suction and cleaning effect as described. It also provides stable positioning. The front gasket length (front to back) range is about ⅛ inch to 4 inches, and a range of about ⅛ inch to 1½ inch being more preferred. This dimension is itself contingent on the material selected so that a more dense stronger material can allow the minimum dimension while a less firm material such as foam must be longer. The front gasket, providing stability of the tread engagement assembly on the tread and enhanced sealing so as to provide greater air velocity past the gasket into and through the vacuum escalator groove passage. The front gasket teeth may extend a height greater than the groove depth. A range for the front gasket tooth height may be about a maximum of ½ inch longer than the depth of the groove to a height of about ½ inch shorter than the groove depth. It is understood that a common depth of a groove is about ½ inch, whereby the range above will allow about a maximum distance of about ½ ich above the groove bottom to ½ inch longer than the groove depth, with a further optimal range of about contact to ⅛ inch above the groove bottom and a range of 1/16 inch to ⅛ inch being further optimal.

Also, it has been determined that use of a controlled volume of water, specifically to avoid excess water allows enhanced vacuum (sucking) operation to suck all the water at least the same rate that it is injected, along with the loose debris. This is sufficiently enhanced by using fewer spray nozzles 112 than described above and establishing a wide pattern across the width. Also, by having the pattern narrow the impinging force on the groove bottoms is enhanced. This is implemented in one embodiment by raising the spray manifold thereby elevating the spray nozzles for a complete coverage spray pattern and using spray nozzles that will provide a narrow spray pattern. A spray pattern that is very thin (can be called planar), such as about 1/16 inch or even less, allows a higher velocity of spray giving a greater impact on the surfaces to be cleaned. It is also understood that adjusting the flow quantity of the cleaning solution into matching the suction implemented by the vacuum apparatus can provide an efficient cleaning process. One such goal is to avoid excessive cleaning solution from overwhelming the vacuum process which can result in leaking into the escalator mechanics.

These configuration differences and functional differences than those described above accommodate and enhance the basic concepts described above with enhanced efficiency. Other similarities and differences between the 100 Series configuration and the above described embodiments are detailed below.

Various versions of the 100 Series configuration of the tread engagement assembly 102 may be used with the same hand operated control assembly 3 and user controls which are described above and shown in FIGS. 19-23. Components of the hand operated control assembly 103 include a wand 107, a handle 108, an evacuation disposal outlet 110 and a pressurized liquid delivery conduit 109 with a bifurcated portion 109A and 109B.

FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of the 100 Series configuration tread engagement assembly and standard manual operating control assembly from above. As mentioned, the hand operated controls shared with other configurations are shown and include a wand 107, a handle 108, an evacuation disposal outlet 110 and a pressurized liquid delivery conduit 109 with a bifurcated portion 9A and 9B. Components of the tread engagement assembly which are shared with above described embodiments include the vacuum outlet 6 and liquid connection fixtures 15A/B as well as the modified components described here. The 100 Series configuration tread engagement assembly which are modified from the above embodiments include the front 105A and rear 105B gaskets which are both wider in this configuration, with more gasket material within the escalator grooves. In an exemplary embodiment of this configuration, the gaskets are manufactured of a deformable foam material. Although it appears solid in this drawing, the scrubber brush 118 which replaces the former component vacuum bridge 18 is formed of individual bristles. Bristle density, thickness and flexibility are customizable and configurable according to the application. Also shown in FIG. 19 is the front retaining strap 191A and retaining strap fastener 193A. The retaining strap is easily removable by the hand tightened fastener such that the retained foam gasket 105A may be replaced as a consumable component of the assembly.

FIG. 20 shows a (left) side view (from the front) of the hand operated control assembly 102 and the tread engagement assembly 103 for the 100 Series configuration embodiment shown also in FIG. 19. From this view, the placement of the front 105A and rear 105B gaskets in relationship to the scrubber brush 18C is apparent.

FIG. 21 shows a front orthographic view of the hand operated control assembly 102 and the tread engagement assembly 103 for the 100 Series configuration embodiment shown also in FIG. 19 and FIG. 20. The same components are visible from this view as in FIG. 19 and FIG. 20. The cross-section marked as “C-C” is shown in FIG. 25 which identifies the identifiable components of the assembly from that view and FIG. 26 which shows how cleaning fluid flows during operation of the assembly.

FIG. 22 shows a bottom orthographic view of the hand operated control assembly 102 and the tread engagement assembly 103 for the 100 Series configuration embodiment shown also in FIG. 19, FIG. 20 and FIG. 21. The same components are visible from this view as in FIG. 19, FIG. 20 and FIG. 21. Additionally, from this view, the underside of the 100 Series tread engagement assembly can be seen, including both the front gasket 105A, rear gasket 105B, scrubbing brush 118 and fluid nozzles 112.

FIG. 23 shows a bottom perspective view of the hand operated control assembly 102 and the tread engagement assembly 103 for the 100 Series configuration embodiment shown also in FIG. 19, FIG. 20, FIG. 21 and FIG. 22. The same components are visible from this view as in FIG. 19, FIG. 20 and FIG. 21. Additionally, from this view, the underside of the 100 Series tread engagement assembly can be seen, including both the front gasket 105A, rear gasket 105B, and scrubbing brush 118.

FIG. 24 shows a side-front perspective view of a close up the tread engagement assembly 102 configuration 100 Series. The various exterior components described above are visible from this view including the configuration 100 Series chassis 4C which is enlarge and higher to accommodate the larger front and rear gaskets as well as raise the spray nozzles higher above the escalator tread so that fewer nozzles may be used to disperse the cleaning fluid onto the tread and into the tread grooves.

FIG. 25 depicts the section “C-C” from FIG. 21 which shows some of the internal structures of the configuration 100 Series tread engagement assembly 102. The chassis 104, which is enlarged for the configuration 100 series embodiment, encases the spray manifold 120, which houses 6 spray nozzles 112 as well as the vacuum evacuation manifold 122. The liquid connection fixtures 115A/B empty into the cleaning fluid manifold 117 which is directed into the individual spray nozzles 112. The spray manifold 120 is separated from the vacuum evacuation manifold 122 by the scrubbing brush assembly 118 which includes a scrubbing brush 196. The front 105A and rear 105B gaskets are shown in the view as if cross-sectioned are the full height portion of the gasket which engages the escalator tread grooves. As shown in FIG. 25, during the cleaning operation, after the tread engagement assembly 102 is positioned with the gaskets 105A in the tread grooves, cleaning solution is pumped into the device, and vacuum evacuation is operational. The vacuum evacuation system begins sucking air and debris material into the evacuation tank once the operator begins evacuation and suction is generated in the vacuum evacuation manifold 122. High suction is maintained by the sealing action of the forward 105A and rear 105B gaskets and also by a lower frame gasket 116 which includes vacuum bridge gasket portions 116A extending along and containing the width of the brush assembly 118 and also includes side skirt vacuum gaskets 116B. The spray manifold 120 is separated from the vacuum evacuation chamber by the scrubber brush assembly 118 acting as a vacuum bridge with brushes 196 extending into the grooves in the vacuum escalator groove passage 114. During the cleaning operation, the cleaning fluid 127 is sprayed into the vacuum escalator groove passage 114 dislodging debris which is carried with the cleaning solution into the vacuum extraction manifold 122. The scrubbing brushes 196 provide for dislodging of debris in contact with surface of the grooves, which is then extracted from the tread groove.

FIG. 25A schematically illustrates height variances between front and rear gaskets 105A2 and 105B2 during engagement of the front and rear gaskets with the tread. Relative differences between the height of the gasket above the tread groove bottom 62 and tread ridge top 61 are shown schematically. As illustrated, the front gasket 105A2 will allow debris to more easily pass under the gasket due to a space between the gasket bottom and the groove bottom. This is helpful because most of the debris to be evacuated is on the bottom of the grooves. This configuration also allows greater velocity of air being pulled in across the bottom by allowing a preferred air flow rout, which can be even more emphasized by increasing the seal of the gasket on the side of the ridges. In this respect, it is appreciated, that the cleaning effect is to be activated by the spray and vacuum, while the gaskets provide seal in order to implement strong air flow when suction occurs by activation of the vacuum apparatus. Seal effect on the sides of the grooves can be effected by contact of the gasket teeth with the groove sides and also by an interference fit when the gasket is made of a compressible material. An interference by the teeth having a width ⅛ greater than the groove spacing will provide an interference of 1/16 inch on each side.

FIG. 26 also depicts the section “C-C” from FIG. 21 in a variation in which the front and rear gaskets 105A and 105B are tilted, which is employed in order to allow ready passage of tread inconsistencies by a following tread being slightly higher than other treads. Thus, the bottom surface of the gasket are angled upward from the rear towards the front at an angle which has been determined to facilitate motion of the gaskets across a vertical offset between steps to avoid catching the gasket edge on the elevated oncoming front of tread. The tilt angle may be chosen from up to 15 degrees.

FIG. 26 A shows schematically the relative positions and heights of the front and rear gaskets 105A and 105B in an alternate embodiment. The advantages of having an upwardly sloped front gasket bottom and groove top above the tread groove bottom 62 and tread ridge height 61 include increased debris flow into the apparatus, and increased stability and tolerance when moving across vertically misaligned steps. The rear gasket 105B2 is shown as being elevated slightly above the bottom of the tread grooves 62.

In FIG. 27, the slope of the upper and lower, forward and rear gasket 105A/B surfaces 181A/B are linear and continuous. The height 105MG of the front edge gasket surfaces is chosen to be at least the height of the tread step offset 105MS between adjacent escalator tread step 72 and 72A tops 61 and 61A. Since the tread groove floor 62 tracks the tread top surface 61, the bottom gasket surface 181B must also have the same sloped adjustment as the groove top. The bottom gasket slope adjustment height is the same 105MG as is the step groove floor 62 62A offset 105MS. Front and rear gasket widths 182A/B are chosen according to the application and conditions of use among other factors and may range from ½ inch to 4 inches.

FIG. 29 shows an exemplar forward gasket 105A or rear gasket 105B for the 100 Series configuration. The gasket 105 A/B may be made from hydrophilic or hydrophobic foam material in various embodiments and may be replaced readily in the assembly as a consumable component. Above the gaskets are described in more detail.

FIG. 30 shows an exemplary brush assembly with brushes or bristles 196. FIG. 30 further shows a scrubber brush assembly 118 which is held in place by fasteners though holes 197 and incorporates one or more rows of bristles 196. In various embodiments, the brush bristles may be composed of differing thickness, density, flexibility, or material, and may be staggered in height across the tread width to more evenly contact the tread ridge top and groove bottom during cleaning.

FIG. 31 shows the lower frame gasket 116 and it integral parts 116A which in this embodiment integrates the above identified side skirt 116B with the holding framework of spaced apart parallel bars 116A for providing a seal around the scrubbing brush assembly 118. The scrubbing brush assembly 118 includes the bristles 196 and fastener holes 197 as shown in FIG. 31. This lower frame gasket 116 which is used for the 100 Series configuration, both facilitates and improves suction pressure under the tread engagement assembly 102 during cleaning and provides a continuing flat surface for the apparatus to be in place on the tread.

FIG. 32 is the cross-section “D-D” from FIG. 3. This shows how the lower surface of the lower frame gasket 116 and its sub-parts 116A and 116B are in sealing contact with the tread upper surfaces 62.

FIG. 33 depicts a photograph of a portion of and exemplar scrubbing brush assembly, including the brush bristles 196, which are facing up in the image for structure visibility only. During operation, the bristles contact the tread grooves and are directed downward.

FIG. 34 shows an exploded view of a 100 series embodiment of the apparatus. The various components of the apparatus and assemblies are identified and shown in an exploded relationship to adjacent components.

FIG. 35 shows a bottom perspective view of an exemplar tread engagement chassis 104 for a 100 series embodiment. Showing also threaded front screws 199F and threaded rear screws 199R which can also be seen in FIG. 25 mounting the gaskets to the chassis 104.

FIG. 36 shows a top perspective view of an exemplar tread engagement chassis 104 for a 100 series embodiment also showing the front threaded fasteners 199F.

FIG. 37 shows a perspective view of cross-section C-C from FIG. 21 of an exemplar 100 series embodiment of the tread engagement assembly. Previously described components of the assembly are shown.

FIG. 38 shows a direct front view of cross-section E-E from FIG. 19 of an exemplar 100 series embodiment of the tread engagement assembly. Previously described components of the assembly are shown. An exemplar spray pattern 127 is shown extending in width to spray into the treads that are under the apparatus, especially into the tread grooves.

FIG. 39 shows schematically how the rear gasket 105B abuts against the terminus comb 65 of the escalator and travellator landing which thereby firmly positions the apparatus for having the treads pass under it and be cleaned.

In alternate embodiments, the arrangement and number of spray nozzles, the type of spray nozzle, the cleaning fluid pressure and the spray pattern are configurable or are selected according to application requirements.

In alternative versions of the 100 series embodiment, the front and rear gaskets are sized according to gasket material used, evacuation suction negative pressure, and typical forces applied to the tread engagement apparatus during operation to provide optimized friction against the escalator tread while maintaining stability and structural integrity. In various embodiments, the front gasket has a length (front to rear measurement) of 1/16 inch to 4 inches. The front gasket may be made of such hard material as to allow a length of 1/16 inch although with softer materials it may be desirable to have a range from about ½ inch to 4 inches or 1½ inch to 2 inches. In various embodiments, the rear gasket has a length (front to rear measurement) of ¼ inch to 4 inches or ½ inch to 4 inches. In various embodiments, the scrubber brush assembly contains 1 to 4 rows of grouped bristles which may be aligned or staggered.

What has been described herein is considered merely illustrative of the principles of this invention. Accordingly, it is well within the purview of one skilled in the art to provide other and different embodiments within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A device for cleaning escalator and travelator treads comprising: front and rear gaskets which mate with a plurality of grooves of the escalator and travelator tread, wherein the vacuum spray manifold and the vacuum evacuation manifolds are substantially sealed against the grooves of the escalator and travelator tread and communicate through the escalator and travelator groove passages;

a source of cleaning solution;

a suction source;

a recovery tank for storing extracted cleaning solution;

a tread engagement assembly comprising: a cleaning solution sprayer connected to the source of cleaning solution comprising a plurality of sprayer nozzles, wherein the cleaning solution sprayer sprays cleaning solution into a vacuum spray manifold; a vacuum evacuation manifold connected to the suction source;

whereby the tread engagement assembly forms a vacuum seal against escalator and travelator treads and cleans the escalator and travelator treads by spraying cleaning solution onto the treads which is extracted by the suction and stored for disposal in the recovery tank.

2. The device as in claim 1 also comprising side skirt vacuum gaskets connecting the front and rear gaskets.

3. The device as in claim 1 also comprising a bridge pad separating the vacuum spray manifold from the vacuum evacuation manifold except by communication through the escalator and travelator groove passages.

4. The device as in claim 1 wherein the front and rear gaskets are constructed of a hydrophobic material.

5. The device as in claim 1 wherein the front and rear gaskets are constructed of an elastomer.

6. The device as in claim 1 wherein the front and rear gaskets are constructed of an oleophilic foam, whereby the front and rear gaskets absorb oil from the escalator and travelator treads but do not absorb a water based cleaning solution extracted during cleaning operation.

7. The device as in claim 1 wherein the front and rear gaskets comprise at least a plurality of teeth which mate against the escalator and travelator tread grooves.

8. The device as in claim 7 wherein the plurality of teeth are of a generally square cross-sectional shape.

9. The device as in claim 1 also comprising a scrubber brush assembly separating the vacuum spray manifold from the vacuum evacuation manifold except by communication through the escalator and travelator groove passages.

10. An escalator and travelator tread cleaning accessory for vacuum evacuation cleaners comprising:

a tread engagement assembly comprising:

a cleaning solution sprayer connected to a source of cleaning solution;

a plurality of spray nozzles;

a vacuum evacuation manifold connected to the suction source;

front and rear gaskets which mate with escalator and travelator tread grooves in an escalator and travelator tread, wherein the vacuum evacuation manifold mates against the escalator and travelator tread;

whereby when operated in conjunction with an evacuation cleaning apparatus the tread engagement assembly forms a vacuum seal against escalator and travelator treads and cleans the treads by spraying cleaning solution onto the groove passages of the treads which is extracted by the suction source.

11. The assembly as in claim 10 also comprising side skirt gaskets connecting the front and rear gaskets.

12. The assembly as in claim 10 also comprising a bridge pad separating a vacuum spray manifold from the vacuum evacuation manifold.

13. The assembly as in claim 10 wherein the front and rear gaskets are constructed of a hydrophobic material.

14. The assembly as in claim 10 wherein the front and rear gaskets are constructed of an elastomer.

15. The assembly as in claim 10 wherein the front and rear gaskets are constructed of an oleophilic foam, whereby the oleophilic foam gaskets absorb oil from the escalator and travelator treads but not a water based cleaning solution extracted during cleaning operation.

16. The assembly as in claim 10 wherein the front and rear gaskets comprise at least a plurality of teeth which mate against the escalator and travelator tread grooves.

17. The assembly as in claim 16 wherein the plurality of teeth are generally of a square cross-sectional shape.

18. The assembly as in claim 16 wherein the front has a front to rear length within the range of about ¼ to 4 inches (10 cm).

19. The assembly as in claim 16 wherein the rear gasket plurality of teeth have a front to rear length in the range of ½ inches (1.27 cm) to 4 inches (10 cm).

20. The assembly as in claim 16 also comprising a scrubber brush assembly separating the vacuum spray manifold from the vacuum evacuation manifold except by communication through the escalator and travelator groove passages.

21. A device for cleaning escalator and travelator treads comprising:

a carpet evacuation cleaning machine modified with an accessory apparatus performing a means for cleaning escalator and travelator treads.

22. A method for cleaning escalator and travelator treads comprising:

providing a tread engagement assembly coupled to a suction extraction source;

setting the tread engagement assembly in place on an escalator and travelator tread wherein a plurality of teeth of at least one gasket of the tread engagement assembly are engaged with a plurality of escalator and travelator grooves of the escalator and travelator tread;

allowing the escalator and travelator to run a full cycle while the tread engagement assembly is in operation along with the suction evacuation source.

23. The method for cleaning escalator and travelator treads as in claim 22 wherein the vacuum spray manifold and vacuum evacuation manifold are also bounded by a side gasket portion on the right and left sides of the respective manifolds.

24. The method for cleaning escalator and travelator treads as in claim 22 wherein the deformable gasket individual teeth are of a generally square cross-sectional shape.

25. The method for cleaning escalator and travelator treads as in claim 22 wherein the front and rear gaskets are constructed of a hydrophobic material.

26. The method for cleaning escalator and travelator treads as in claim 22 wherein the front gasket has a front to rear length within the range of about 1/16 inches (0.1615 cm) to 4 inches (10 cm).

27. The method for cleaning escalator and travelator treads as in claim 22 wherein the rear has a front to rear length in the range of about ½ inches (1.27 cm) to 4 inches (10 cm).

28. The method for cleaning escalator and travelator treads as in claim 22 also comprising a scrubber brush assembly separating the vacuum spray manifold from the vacuum evacuation manifold except by communication through the escalator and travelator groove passages.

29. A method for cleaning escalator and travelator treads comprising:

providing a tread engagement assembly coupled to a suction evacuation source;

setting the tread engagement assembly in place on an escalator and travelator tread wherein a plurality of teeth of at least one gasket of the tread engagement assembly are engaged with a plurality of escalator and travelator grooves of the escalator and travelator tread;

allowing the escalator and travelator to run a full cycle while the tread engagement assembly is in operation along with the suction evacuation source.

30. The method of claim 29 wherein the tread engagement assembly comprises a vacuum evacuation manifold and a vacuum spray manifold in communication with each other through a plurality of escalator and travelator groove passages, wherein the spray manifold is connected to a source of liquid cleaner which is sprayed into the manifold by spray source nozzles; a. forwardly angled b. vertical; and c. rearwardly angled

the spray source nozzles being aligned in a direction that is lateral to movement of escalator and travelator treads and the spray nozzles having an angle of spray selected from the group consisting of:

wherein the spray nozzles operate to spray liquid during operation of the tread engagement assembly and the sprayed liquid along with debris are sucked into the vacuum evacuation manifold for further disposition.

31. A device for cleaning escalator and travelator treads comprising:

a source of cleaning solution;

a suction source;

a recovery tank for storing extracted cleaning solution;

a tread engagement assembly comprising: a cleaning solution sprayer connected to the source of cleaning solution comprising a plurality of sprayer nozzles, wherein the cleaning solution sprayer sprays cleaning solution into a vacuum spray manifold; a vacuum evacuation manifold connected to the suction source; front and rear gaskets which mate with a plurality of grooves of the escalator and travelator tread, wherein the vacuum spray manifold and the vacuum evacuation manifolds are substantially sealed against the grooves of the escalator and travelator tread and communicate through the escalator and travelator groove passages, wherein the rear gasket is configured to abut against a stationary tread comb structure at a bottom or a top of the escalator and travelator, wherein when the device is engaged with the escalator and travelator tread during operation of the escalator and travelator, the rear gasket contact with the stationary comb structure when the device is engaged with the forward gasket and rear gasket positioned with the forward gasket facing oncoming escalator and travelator treads and the rear gasket blocking motion of the device by direct contact with the stationary comb;

whereby the tread engagement assembly forms a vacuum seal against escalator and travelator treads and cleans the escalator and travelator treads by spraying cleaning solution onto the treads which is extracted by the suction and stored for disposal in the recovery tank.

32. A method for cleaning escalator and travelator treads the treads having a top and being separated by grooves defining tread sides and tread bottoms and the treads moving in a rearward direction comprising: whereby when operated in conjunction with an evacuation cleaning apparatus the tread engagement assembly forms a vacuum seal against escalator and travelator treads and cleans the treads by spraying cleaning solution onto the groove passages of the treads which is extracted by the suction source through the vacuum evacuation manifold.

providing a wet vacuum extraction cleaning system comprising: a chassis extending a selected width across threads comprising: a tread engagement assembly comprising: a front gasket attached to the chassis at a front portion thereof and having teeth configured to fit across the tread tops and into the tread grooves and a rear gasket attached to the chassis at a rear portion thereof having teeth configured to fit across the tread tops and into the tread grooves the front and rear gaskets forming a vacuum seal to the treads and being spaced apart along the length of the treads defining a vacuum groove passage within grooves of the treads in the selected width that are encompassed by the front and rear gaskets; a plurality of spray nozzles extending within the chassis rearwardly adjacent to the front gasket to cause spray of cleaning solution into the vacuum groove passage; a vacuum evacuation manifold connectable to a suction source and extending within the chassis rearwardly of the spray nozzles; a vacuum bridge in the chassis extending across the width of the treads under the chassis and located between the spray nozzles and the vacuum evacuation manifold and in contact with the top of the treads which it extends across; a suction source connected to the vacuum evacuation manifold;