With Liquid Or Other Cleaning Material Application To Work Patents (Class 15/320)
  • Patent number: 12256877
    Abstract: A surface cleaning head has a rotatably mounted brush, which is provided at a front end of the surface cleaning head, a cleaning solution delivery system and a removable liquid collection reservoir, which is provided in the surface cleaning head rearward of the brush. The cleaning solution delivery system comprises a pump, a liquid reservoir and a fluid flow path extending from the liquid reservoir to at least one delivery nozzle, wherein the at least one delivery nozzle is provided in the surface cleaning head and is configured to deliver a liquid drawn from the liquid reservoir to a portion of the brush that is located internal of the surface cleaning head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2024
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2025
    Assignee: Omachron Intellectual Property Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne Ernest Conrad, Daniel Innes, Dave Petersen, Adam Udy
  • Patent number: 12259733
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system and a method of controlling a robot for autonomous navigation. The method includes receiving a set of point values defining LIDAR data from a LIDAR sensor scanning a 2D omnidirectional plane, receiving a sensor value from an ultrasonic sensor having a 3D field of view excluding the plane, and resolving an observable field of view for the LIDAR sensor, where the observable field of view includes a blind spot of the LIDAR sensor, and modifying the LIDAR data using the sensor value based on the object being located in the blind spot indicated by the sensor value less than one or more point values corresponding to a portion of the plane extending along the observable field of view, where the modified LIDAR data indicates the object being detected by the LIDAR sensor despite the object located outside the 2D field of view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2025
    Assignee: ANRAM HOLDINGS
    Inventors: Ajay Vishnu, Arijit Saha, Rohit Verma
  • Patent number: 12245731
    Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus includes a steam delivery system, a liquid delivery system, and a recovery system. The steam delivery system may include a steam dispenser having one outlet to dispense steam toward the surface to be cleaned and another outlet to dispense steam away from the surface to be cleaned as visible steam vapor. The apparatus may have multiple cleaning modes, including a mode where liquid is dispensed and a mode where liquid and steam are dispensed. Methods for operating a surface cleaning apparatus and for self-cleaning a surface cleaning apparatus are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2023
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2025
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Jacob Resch, Andrew Woodcox, Jeremy W. Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 12214553
    Abstract: An additive manufacturing system including a base assembly and a tray assembly. The base assembly includes a build window, substantially transparent to electromagnetic radiation; a projection system configured to project electromagnetic radiation toward an upper surface of the build window; and a tray seat arranged around a perimeter of the build window. The tray assembly is configured to engage with the base assembly in an engaged configuration and includes: a tray structure defining a registration feature configured to engage the tray seat to locate an aperture proximal to the upper surface of the build window in the engaged configuration; and a separation membrane that is configured to laminate across the upper surface of the build window in response to an evacuation of gas from an interstitial region and configured to separate from the build window in response to injection of gas into the interstitial region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2025
    Assignee: Stratasys, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Prucha, Joel Ong, John Paton
  • Patent number: 12185890
    Abstract: A mobile disinfection device (200) includes a disinfection chamber (203) coupled to a propulsion system (228) configured for moving along a surface (236) to be disinfected. The disinfection chamber defines a closed distal end (205), an open proximal end (206) and a surrounding wall (207) impervious to the radiation and having opposing front and rear portions and opposing side portions, respective proximal front, rear and side edges of which are propelled by the propulsion system close to the surface to be disinfected. A radiation source (260) is mounted inside the disinfection chamber for irradiating the surface through the open proximal end. The propulsion system includes a peripheral seal (304) surrounding a proximal edge of the wall and configured to obstruct radiation that might otherwise escape from inside the disinfection chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2025
    Assignee: PUREORR LTD.
    Inventors: Yefim Kereth, Yoav Atzmon
  • Patent number: 12178372
    Abstract: A floor cleaner including a including a body, a cleaning head pivotally coupled to the body, and a liquid distribution system. The cleaning head includes a first and a second cleaning roller for contacting a surface to be cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2023
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2024
    Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited
    Inventors: Rafael Davila, Michael Dawson, Robert McRorie, Donald Lydic, Nicholas DeBlasio
  • Patent number: 12164315
    Abstract: A control system for a compressed air system is configured to implement an “away mode” of operation that provides for a temporary override of the operation of the compressed air system, which can be easily enabled and disabled. During a period of down time, when the away mode of operation is enabled, the control system causes the compressed air system to operate in a limited capacity (e.g., maintaining limited system pressure, flow, higher dewpoint/humidity level, etc.) to minimize energy usage and limit unnecessary wear on system equipment without shutting down the compressed air system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2023
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2024
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Industrial U.S., Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Dameron, Titilope Z. Sule, Brian D. Wise, Jason A. Roberge
  • Patent number: 12151043
    Abstract: A keypad sterilization assembly includes a keypad that has a plurality of keys is movably integrated therein. The plurality of keys can be manipulated for entering an alpha-numeric code. A fluid port is coupled to the keypad and a reservoir is fluidly attachable to the fluid port. The reservoir contains an anti-bacterial solution. A pair of nozzles is provided and each of the nozzles is coupled to the keypad. Each of the nozzles is directed toward the plurality of keys and each of the nozzles is in fluid communication with the fluid port. Additionally, each of the nozzles sprays a measured amount of the anti-bacterial solution onto the keys to sterilize the keys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2024
    Inventor: Ryan Chimile
  • Patent number: 12144475
    Abstract: The invention discloses a surface cleaning apparatus comprising: a source of suction; the cleaning head comprises a housing and a cleaning roller. The cleaning head is provided with a cleaning liquid output for applying the cleaning liquid and at least one steam output for applying steam relative to the surface to be cleaned by the rolling brush; wherein the steam outlet steam outlet is arranged at the lower portion of the housing and configured to heat the surface by overflowing the steam to the surface to accelerate the evaporation of residual cleaning liquid on the surface. The apparatus introduces steam for heating the surface, thereby it can accelerate evaporation surface on the residual cleaning solution and shorten user latency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2023
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2024
    Assignee: SUZHOU EUP ELECTRIC CO. LTD.
    Inventor: Zhuang Bian
  • Patent number: 12059109
    Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus includes a recovery tank, a suction nozzle in fluid communication with the recovery tank, and a suction source in fluid communication with the suction nozzle and the recovery tank to generate a working air path to transport debris-containing fluid including air and liquid from the suction nozzle into the recovery tank. An air/liquid separator can be provided within the recovery tank for separating liquid from air in the debris-containing fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2024
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Tom Minh Nguyen, David M. Miller, Michael D. Graham, YunMing Huang, Chiu Yeung Lee
  • Patent number: 12036739
    Abstract: The present invention is intended to provide a cleaning apparatus for a 3-dimensional (3D) printing structure and a cleaning method for a 3D printing structure. To this end, the present invention provides a cleaning apparatus for a 3D printing structure, the cleaning apparatus including a hygroscopic paper supply part supplying a hygroscopic paper while the wound film-type hygroscopic paper is unwound, a hygroscopic paper collecting part winding and collecting the film-type hygroscopic paper, a film-type hygroscopic paper moving in a direction from the supply part to the collecting part between the supply part and the collecting part according to a mutual operation of the supply part and the collecting part, and a support part disposed on an opposite surface of a hygroscopic paper surface, on which the 3D printing structure is disposed, with respect to the film-type hygroscopic paper, and a cleaning method for a 3D printing structure, and a cleaning method for a 3D printing structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2024
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Materials Science
    Inventors: Hui Suk Yun, Honghyun Park
  • Patent number: 12036331
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an aqueous ozone floor disinfection system. A floor cleaning machine traverses a floor surface entering a pre-hygienic zone prior to cleaning, cleaning within a midst-hygienic zone for a cleaning period, and moving away from the midst-hygienic zone creating a post-hygienic zone. An aqueous ozone generator receives water and generates an ozonated concentrate liquid. A post-hygienic mixer ratiometrically blends the ozonated concentrate liquid and water to form a post-hygienic ozone disinfection solution having a predetermined post-hygienic ozone treatment concentration. A post-hygienic nozzle spray of the post-hygienic ozone disinfection solution onto the post-hygienic zone portion of the floor surface for at least the post-hygienic treatment time absent agitation or removal by the floor cleaning machine improving disinfection of the floor surface. The service life of the aqueous ozone generator can be tracked and the disinfected floor surface can be GPS geofenced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2023
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2024
    Assignee: BioSure North America LLC
    Inventors: Darren Simmons, Jeffrey R. Foote, Christopher Salaski, Ivor J. J. Longo, Wayne Simmons, H. Brock Kolls
  • Patent number: 12011127
    Abstract: A floor cleaner including a including a base, an upright portion, and a recovery tank. The recovery tank includes a baffle configured to separate liquid and air from a liquid-laden stream entering the recovery tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2023
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2024
    Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited
    Inventors: Rafael Davila, Robert McRorie, Yogeshwar Sookdeo
  • Patent number: 11969946
    Abstract: An additive manufacturing system comprising: an additive manufacturing device, said device including: a resin vessel for containing a material which is polymerisable on exposure to radiation; a build platform having a build surface arranged to have an object manufactured thereon; a radiation source; said radiation source positioned to irradiate uncured material on said build surface to manufacture the object; said device in wireless communication with a central station; said central station arranged to process data to create manufacturing files; said central station arranged to communicate said files to said device such that the device manufactures the object based upon said files.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2024
    Assignee: Structo Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Hubertus Theodorus Petrus Van Esbroeck, Boyle Suwono, Harsh Gupta
  • Patent number: 11937749
    Abstract: A removable mop attachment module, including a frame; a reservoir positioned within the frame; at least one drainage aperture positioned at a bottom of the reservoir; at least one breathing aperture positioned on the reservoir; and a pressure actuated valve positioned at least partially on an inner surface of the reservoir, covering the at least one breathing aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Assignee: AI Incorporated
    Inventors: Ali Ebrahimi Afrouzi, Soroush Mehrnia
  • Patent number: 11926090
    Abstract: Disclosed is an additive manufacturing device, comprising: a vessel for containing a material which is polymerisable on exposure to radiation; a build platform having a build surface, the build platform being mounted or mountable for movement relative to the vessel; and a programmable radiation module comprising an array of individually addressable radiation emitting or transmitting elements, the array being configurable to produce radiation having a predetermined pattern by selective activation of elements of the array; wherein the programmable radiation module is positioned or positionable to irradiate uncured material adjacent the build surface, or adjacent a previously cured structure on the build surface, with the predetermined pattern without magnification. Also disclosed is an additive manufacturing method which employs the additive manufacturing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2023
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: Structo Pte Ltd.
    Inventors: Hubertus Theodorus Petrus Van Esbroeck, Shanmugam Muruga Palaniappan, Devansh Sharma, Siu Hon Lam, Kah Fai Chin, Yong Chuan Randall Sie
  • Patent number: 11910971
    Abstract: A surface cleaner configured to distribute a liquid to a surface to be cleaned. The surface cleaner includes a supply tank, a fluid distributor, a suction inlet aperture, a recovery tank and a tool removably connectable to the surface cleaner and configured to direct fluid from the fluid distributor into the suction inlet aperture to rinse the suction inlet aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited
    Inventors: Eric Hoffman, Rafael Davila, Michael Dawson, Daniel Galleno
  • Patent number: 11896177
    Abstract: An extractor includes a fluid recovery system including a suction nozzle, a recovery tank assembly, and a suction source having an inlet fluidly connected to the recovery tank assembly and the suction nozzle through an air conduit and adapted to draw liquid through the suction nozzle and deposit the liquid in the recovery tank assembly. The extractor includes a body provided with the air conduit for movement between a first position wherein suction is unreduced and a second position wherein suction is reduced. The extractor includes a fluid delivery system including a solution supply tank assembly, a fluid distributor, and a conduit for depositing fluid onto a surface. The extractor includes a hydraulic connector operably coupled to the body and adapted to move the body between the first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Eric C. Huffman, Charles A. Reed, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11878472
    Abstract: An additive manufacturing system including a base assembly and a tray assembly. The base assembly includes a build window, substantially transparent to electromagnetic radiation; a projection system configured to project electromagnetic radiation toward an upper surface of the build window; and a tray seat arranged around a perimeter of the build window. The tray assembly is configured to engage with the base assembly in an engaged configuration and includes: a tray structure defining a registration feature configured to engage the tray seat to locate an aperture proximal to the upper surface of the build window in the engaged configuration; and a separation membrane that is configured to laminate across the upper surface of the build window in response to an evacuation of gas from an interstitial region and configured to separate from the build window in response to injection of gas into the interstitial region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: Stratasys, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Prucha, Joel Ong
  • Patent number: 11844482
    Abstract: A cleaning device includes a host, a drag head assembly and a water spray assembly. The host includes a housing, a control device housed in the housing and a handle member fixedly connected to the housing. The housing contains a water inlet pipe for connecting to a water source. The drag head assembly is fixed on the housing and electrically connected to the control device. The control device is used to control the drag head assembly for cleaning operations. The drag head assembly includes a cleaning brush head. The water spray assembly is fixed in the drag head assembly and connected to the end of the water inlet pipe away from the water source. The water spray assembly has evenly set spray holes. The direction of the spray holes is towards the cleaning brush head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Assignee: SHENZHEN JASHEN TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xiao-Ming Zhang, Yan-Cheng He
  • Patent number: 11766158
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner includes an odor neutralizer and dust plume abatement system. The odor neutralizer and dust plume abatement system delivers a mist to a working air path of the vacuum cleaner, such as at or upstream of a working air treatment assembly defining a portion of the working air path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Alan J. Krebs, Thomas K. Ankney
  • Patent number: 11744426
    Abstract: A floor cleaner including a including a body, a cleaning head pivotally coupled to the body, and a liquid distribution system. The cleaning head includes a first and a second cleaning roller for contacting a surface to be cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited
    Inventors: Rafael Davila, Michael Dawson, Robert McRorie, Donald Lydic, Nicholas DeBlasio
  • Patent number: 11744430
    Abstract: A cleaning device includes a main body, a driving assembly, and a cleaning assembly. The driving assembly includes a driving device, at least one transmission member and a movable bracket. The driving device is arranged on the main body, and has a driving shaft extending toward the bottom of the main body. The movable bracket can be movably connected to the bottom of the main body, and is spaced from the driving shaft. The movement direction of the movable bracket is substantially perpendicular to the extension direction of the driving shaft. The at least one transmission member is connected between the movable bracket and the driving shaft. The driving shaft of the driving device drives the movable bracket to reciprocate back and forth through the at least one transmission member. The cleaning assembly is detachably connected to the movable bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: SHENZHEN FLY RODENT DYNAMICS INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Wuji Zhang, Changtai Xia
  • Patent number: 11723506
    Abstract: The invention discloses a surface cleaning apparatus comprising: a source of suction; the cleaning head comprises a housing and a cleaning roller. The cleaning head is provided with a cleaning liquid output for applying the cleaning liquid and at least one steam output for applying steam relative to the surface to be cleaned by the rolling brush; wherein the steam outlet steam outlet is arranged at the lower portion of the housing and configured to heat the surface by overflowing the steam to the surface to accelerate the evaporation of residual cleaning liquid on the surface. The apparatus introduces steam for heating the surface, thereby it can accelerate evaporation surface on the residual cleaning solution and shorten user latency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: SUZHOU EUP ELECTRIC CO. LTD.
    Inventor: Zhuang Bian
  • Patent number: 11723505
    Abstract: A floor maintenance machine includes a clean fluid tank with a discharge funnel running therethrough that forms part of an exhaust pathway for a vacuum source. The vacuum source discharges an exhaust during operation of the machine from the exhaust outlet into the discharge funnel. The exhaust may be gaseous and/or include a liquid component in the case of a machine malfunction if liquid from a recovery chamber is non-ideally drawn into the vacuum source in the case a fail-safe does not work. The discharge funnel can provide a way for the liquid to exit the interior of the machine in such case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: RPS Corporation
    Inventor: Sean K. Goff
  • Patent number: 11683007
    Abstract: A device for treating smooth surfaces includes a treatment unit, a support structure with a pivoting support arm for positioning and holding the treatment unit and a load balancer for setting and automatically controlling the contact pressure acting on the surface to be treated by the treatment unit. The treatment unit in the form of a spraying device includes at least one support roller or support wheel for supporting the treatment unit against the surface to be treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Inventor: Franz Ehleuter
  • Patent number: 11666192
    Abstract: A nozzle of a cleaner includes a nozzle body, a rotation cleaning part having a rotation plate to which a rag is attached, a driving device provided in the nozzle body, a water tank, a water supply passage, and a water adjuster of which at least a portion is mounted on the nozzle body at a rear side thereof so as to be exposed to a rear surface or a top surface of the nozzle body. A user standing on the same floor surface as the nozzle body may manipulate the water adjuster by using his or her foot. The water adjuster may be configured to adjust an on/off operation and a rotation speed (e.g., rpm) of the pump motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2023
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Seunghyun Song, Seongmin Kim, Jaeyoung Kim, Wookjun Chung
  • Patent number: 11638512
    Abstract: A robot cleaner is provided, including a main body forming a robot cleaner exterior, a driver coupled to the main body to move the main body, a cleaning module coupled to the main body to suck dust from a traveling surface, a dust collector removing dust from air suctioned through the cleaning module, and a wet-mop module coupled to the main body to mop the traveling surface, wherein the wet-mop module includes a wet-mop module housing surrounding at least a portion of the main body and accommodating water in an internal space, a wet-mop module wheel disposed in the wet-mop module housing, a mop disposed between the wet-mop module housing and the traveling surface, and a wet-mop pump connected to the wet-mop module wheel to supply water to the mop in response to rotation of the wet-mop module wheel. Mopping may be performed without applying physical force of a person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2023
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Changhwa Sun, Jungmin Ko, Jihyun Lim
  • Patent number: 11617413
    Abstract: Methods for manufacturing three-dimensional components of articles, including articles of footwear, apparel, and sporting equipment are provided. The disclosed methods comprise providing a first composition comprising a plurality of foam particles suspended in a liquid polymerizable composition, polymerizing a first portion of the liquid polymerizable composition to form a first layer of polymeric material at least partially encapsulating a first portion of the plurality of foam particles, repeating the polymerizing and forming for at least a second and third iteration, each iteration forming a layer on the previous layer, thereby forming a three-dimensional component having at least three layers, each layer including foam particles at least partially encapsulated by the first polymeric material. Articles manufactured using the disclosed methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2023
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventor: Brandon Kvamme
  • Patent number: 11600398
    Abstract: A system and method of clearing radioactive contamination from a surface is provided by means of a handheld device and a method of using the handheld device. The handheld device has a manual system which operates by pressing a button to spray radioactive wash on the surface. The handheld device also has an electrical system which operates by pressing a button to suction radioactive contamination from the surface. The function of this system is to clean the surface from radioactive contamination. The system of the handheld device consists of a suctioning part and a pump and functions by suctioning the radioactive contamination into a lead cylinder, from which it is easily disposed. A third component includes a gauge for detecting contamination before, during, and after the cleaning and suctioning processes of the handheld device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: GIFTEDNESS AND CREATIVITY COMPANY
    Inventor: Nuha H. F. H. Almae
  • Patent number: 11589648
    Abstract: Methods for manufacturing three-dimensional components of articles, including articles of footwear, apparel, and sporting equipment are provided. The disclosed methods comprise providing a first composition comprising a plurality of foam particles suspended in a liquid polymerizable composition, polymerizing a first portion of the liquid polymerizable composition to form a first layer of polymeric material at least partially encapsulating a first portion of the plurality of foam particles, repeating the polymerizing and forming for at least a second and third iteration, each iteration forming a layer on the previous layer, thereby forming a three-dimensional component having at least three layers, each layer including foam particles at least partially encapsulated by the first polymeric material. Articles manufactured using the disclosed methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventor: Brandon Kvamme
  • Patent number: 11553757
    Abstract: Methods for manufacturing three-dimensional components of articles, including articles of footwear, apparel, and sporting equipment are provided. The disclosed methods comprise providing a first composition comprising a plurality of foam particles suspended in a liquid polymerizable composition, polymerizing a first portion of the liquid polymerizable composition to form a first layer of polymeric material at least partially encapsulating a first portion of the plurality of foam particles, repeating the polymerizing and forming for at least a second and third iteration, each iteration forming a layer on the previous layer, thereby forming a three-dimensional component having at least three layers, each layer including foam particles at least partially encapsulated by the first polymeric material. Articles manufactured using the disclosed methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventor: Brandon Kvamme
  • Patent number: 11524286
    Abstract: A method for the contact metering of liquids having the following steps: a first liquid is introduced into at least one elongate hollow body, some of the first liquid contained in the elongate hollow body is pressed out of the lower end of the elongate hollow body as a contacting volume such that the contacting volume forms a drop suspended from the lower end of the elongate hollow body, at least some of the drop is immersed in a second liquid in a target vessel and the defined metering volume consisting of the contacting volume and a residual volume contained in the elongate hollow body is dispensed into the second liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Inventor: Rusbeh Göcke
  • Patent number: 11523724
    Abstract: A surface cleaning machine is provided, including a cleaning head having at least one driven cleaning roller unit, a dirty fluid reservoir device arranged on the cleaning head, and a scraping guide device for dirty fluid that acts on the at least one cleaning roller unit, wherein the dirty fluid reservoir device has a container device for dirty fluid and a cover device for the container device, wherein a duct device for cleaning liquid is arranged on the cover device, and wherein there is arranged on the cover device an orifice device which is fluidically connected to the duct device and by means of which cleaning liquid is applicable to the at least one cleaning roller unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Assignee: Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG
    Inventors: Marc Meisenbacher, Christoph Rufenach, Tobias Palmer, Andreas Mueller, Mathias Frisch
  • Patent number: 11484174
    Abstract: A cleaning tool for an extraction cleaner includes a tool body including a nozzle portion connected to an elongated handle portion and a nozzle cover removably mounted to the nozzle portion forming a suction nozzle therebetween. The suction nozzle is configured to extract recovered liquid and dirt. The cleaning tool also includes an internal conduit in fluid communication with the suction nozzle configured to transport recovered liquid and dirt extracted by the suction nozzle. The internal conduit extending longitudinally within the handle portion between opposite ends of the handle portion. The cleaning tool further includes a spray nozzle configured to distribute cleaning liquid forward of the nozzle cover and a supply tube configured to carry cleaning liquid to the spray nozzle. The spray nozzle passes through the suction nozzle or the inlet conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited
    Inventors: Tyler Clas, Douglas M. Rukavina, Donovan Bode, Juan Aviles Quintero
  • Patent number: 11439288
    Abstract: A cleaning tool for an extraction cleaner includes a tool body including a nozzle portion connected to an elongated handle portion and a nozzle cover removably mounted to the nozzle portion forming a suction nozzle therebetween. The suction nozzle is configured to extract recovered liquid and dirt. The cleaning tool also includes an internal conduit in fluid communication with the suction nozzle configured to transport recovered liquid and dirt extracted by the suction nozzle. The internal conduit extending longitudinally within the handle portion between opposite ends of the handle portion. The cleaning tool further includes a spray nozzle configured to distribute cleaning liquid forward of the nozzle cover and a supply tube configured to carry cleaning liquid to the spray nozzle. The spray nozzle passes through the suction nozzle or the inlet conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited
    Inventors: Tyler Clas, Douglas M. Rukavina, Donovan Bode, Juan Aviles Quintero
  • Patent number: 11426041
    Abstract: A nozzle for a cleaner has a nozzle housing, which has a nozzle base and a drain hole for discharging water from the nozzle housing. The nozzle also has a rotary cleaning unit disposed below the nozzle housing. The rotary cleaning unit has a rotation plate that can be attached to a mop. The nozzle has a driving unit that includes a driving motor for driving the rotary cleaning unit. The nozzle also has a control board for controlling the drive motor. In addition, the nozzle has a water tank detachably mounted on an upper side of the nozzle housing. The water tank stores water and supplies the water to the rotary cleaning unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Jinwoo Lee, Chungjae Ryu, Jonghyun Seo
  • Patent number: 11395571
    Abstract: Aspects of the present invention relate to a triggerless extractor surface cleaning device for cleaning a surface in which a cleaning solution is distributed to the surface and extracted using suction along with dirt and/or debris on the surface in a continuous operation as the extractor moves along the surface. The extractor further comprises an encoder positioned adjacent a wheel of the extractor for detecting a rotational direction and speed of the wheel to generate a signal. Based on receiving the signal, a controller controls operation of a valve to situationally distribute the cleaning solution to the surface depending on a forward rotation of the wheel and independent of user actuation of a trigger positioned on a handle used to propel the extractor along the surface. Distribution of the cleaning solution can be further optimized based on the detected rotational speed of the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2022
    Assignee: TECHTRONIC FLOOR CARE TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventors: Patrick Diana, Douglas M. Rukavina
  • Patent number: 11375869
    Abstract: A steam mop includes a housing with a foot assembly movable along a surface to be cleaned and a handle assembly coupled to the foot assembly, a supply tank for storing a supply of fluid, a steam generator fluidly coupled with the supply tank for producing steam from the fluid, and a cutout in the housing through which a portion of the supply tank is viewable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph P. Perry, Adam Luedke, Kan Yuk Yiu, Jian Yun Pi
  • Patent number: 11363931
    Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus including, a fluid storage container; an outlet for directing fluid from the fluid storage container onto a surface to be cleaned; and a valve configured to regulate the flow of fluid from the fluid storage container to the outlet and including: a body; and a member being moveable relative to the body between a first position and a second position and defining a flow path extending through a surface thereof; wherein the flow of fluid through the valve flows at a first rate when the member is in the first position and at a second rate and along the flow path when the member is in the second position, the second rate of flow being lower than the first rate of flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Inventors: Daragh Manning, Rafael Davila
  • Patent number: 11357379
    Abstract: A random orbit scrubber comprises a main body having a front end and a rear end, a squeegee assembly coupled to the rear end of the main body, and a cleaning head assembly coupled to the front end of the main body. The cleaning head assembly can include a cleaning element structured for contact with a floor surface. The cleaning head assembly can further include a motor that is operable to impart rotational and orbital movement on the cleaning element. The cleaning head assembly can also include one or more arcuate cleaning fluid manifolds each having a plurality of dispensing points to distribute cleaning fluid in one or more locations on top of and in front of the cleaning element. The arcuate cleaning fluid manifolds can include variable flow nozzles and can be mounted to a carriage that rotates about the cleaning head assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Assignee: Nilfisk A/S
    Inventors: William Randall Stuchlik, David Wood
  • Patent number: 11344171
    Abstract: A floor surface cleaning machine includes a suction mechanism disposed at a bottom side of a machine frame for suction of dust and dirt on the floor surface, a brush mechanism disposed at the bottom side of the machine frame rearwardly of the suction mechanism for brushing the floor surface with cleaning liquid, and a squeegee unit disposed at the bottom side of the machine frame rearwardly of the brush mechanism for gathering dirty liquid. Before brushing the floor surface, fibers may be removed from the floor surface together with the dust and dirt for preventing the fibers from being tangled up with bristles of the brush mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: UNI-RING TECH. CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ching-Yun Kung, Hsuan-Fan Wang, Mao-Yi Lee
  • Patent number: 11297995
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention disclosed herein include steam appliances and methods which apply steam and a liquid containing a cleaning agent to the floor via separate outlets. In some embodiments, the liquid containing a cleaning agent is applied to an area of the floor that is physically separated from a steam application area. The steam may be applied to the floor through a steam-permeable fabric. The liquid containing a cleaning agent may be heated before being applied to the floor or being mixed with steam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: SharkNinja Operating LLC
    Inventors: Alan L. Weeks, Kim C. Reeves, William Scott Hughes, Ognjen Vrdoljak
  • Patent number: 11266285
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a surface cleaning apparatus that includes a steam delivery system for steam mopping a floor surface after sweeping dry dirt, dust, hair, and other debris from the floor surface. The surface cleaning apparatus can be configured to perform multiple cleaning functions, including dry sweeping and steam mopping. The surface cleaning apparatus can be convertible between different modes of operation, including at least an upright mode and a handheld mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Jason W. Pruiett, Jacob Resch, James Theodore Hotary, Guoshun Wang
  • Patent number: 11259676
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner device (1) for operation on a floor area (F), comprising: a suction duct (7) and an actuator (9) arranged and configured to generate an underpressure in the suction duct (7) so that air is sucked into the suction duct (7), a temperature sensor (10) configured to sample an air temperature in the vicinity of the device (1), wherein said temperature sensor (10) is arranged in the suction duct (7) or adjacent an opening (6d) of the suction duct (7), and an analyzing unit (3) configured to detect a wet spot (W) on said floor area (F) using said sampled air temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: SENSIRION AG
    Inventors: Maximilian Eichberger, Bernd Zimmermann
  • Patent number: 11229338
    Abstract: A handheld extraction cleaner includes a unitary body provided with a carry handle, and further provided with a supply tank, a recovery tank, and a suction source, all of which are carried on the unitary body. The various components of the extraction cleaner can be arranged for a balanced weight in hand. The supply and recovery tanks are configured to optimize the usable volume within the tanks, among other functions. A powered cleaning head including a removable brushroll is provided on the unitary body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventor: Victoria J. Royale
  • Patent number: 11219334
    Abstract: A blender system is shown and described herein. In one aspect, the blender system includes a base with an interior and an exterior formed by a housing. The housing may include an air inlet port and an exhaust port. The interior of the base includes a motor bore forming an air pathway connecting the air inlet port to the exhaust port. The motor bore also includes an entry aperture fluidly connecting the motor bore to the air inlet port. The entry aperture is indirectly in line with the air inlet port. The exit aperture fluidly connects the motor bore to the exhaust port, and the exit aperture is indirectly in line with the exhaust port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: VITA-MIX MANAGEMENT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael Arnett, Eugene J. Kozlowski
  • Patent number: 11213182
    Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus such as an extractor has a liquid delivery system, a separator, a collection chamber in communication a the separated element outlet of the separator, and a separated liquid collection container downstream from the collection chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: Omachron Intellectual Property Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne Ernest Conrad
  • Patent number: 11202549
    Abstract: A steam mop with an upright handle assembly pivotally mounted to a foot includes a fluid distribution system. The fluid distribution system includes a steam generator, a fluid distributor in the foot that applies steam to a floor surface and an auxiliary hose that applies steam to above-floor surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2021
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Alan J. Krebs, Kurt E. Ashbaugh
  • Patent number: 11191402
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for cleaning a surface with a cleaning device having a body with a handle, a connector, and one or more cleaning heads that are removably attached to the cleaning device. Each cleaning head include a lower surface arranged to contact a surface to be cleaned and a dirt collection chamber permanently attached to the cleaning head. The cleaning head may include a support structure to support the dirt collection chamber and a cleaning sheet. The cleaning head also may include a suction nozzle. At least a portion of the dirt collection chamber may be made of a filter material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: SharkNinja Operating LLC
    Inventors: Samuel Emrys James, Michael James Douglas, David Stephen Clare, Chris Pinches, Nicholas James Sardar, Hugh James Croggon, Damian Lee