With Liquid Or Other Cleaning Material Application To Work Patents (Class 15/320)
  • Patent number: 11096540
    Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus includes a housing including an upright handle assembly and a base mounted to the upright handle assembly and adapted for movement across a surface to be cleaned. The surface cleaning apparatus is further provided with a fluid delivery system comprising a fluid dispenser configured to dispense fluid to a brushroll and at least one fluid delivery channel forming a portion of a fluid delivery pathway. The fluid delivery channel can extend adjacent to a portion of the suction nozzle assembly. An interference wiper interfaces with a portion of the brushroll to remove excess liquid from the brushroll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Jincheng Xia, Jianjun Ge, Zhenjiang Yin, Xin Chen, Yongsheng Liang, Kam Hoi Ma
  • Patent number: 11096536
    Abstract: A nozzle for a cleaner has a nozzle housing, and first and second rotation cleaning units arranged on a lower side of the nozzle housing and spaced apart from each other. Each of the first and second rotation cleaning units includes a rotation plate coupled to a mop. The nozzle includes a first driving device having a first driving motor to drive the first rotation cleaning unit. The nozzle also includes a second driving device having a second driving motor to drive the second rotation cleaning unit. Further, the nozzle has a water tank mounted on the nozzle housing to store water. The nozzle housing includes driving unit covers arranged to surround each of the driving devices. At least one of the driving unit covers includes a first protruding surface, and a second protruding surface positioned higher than the first protruding surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Ingyu Yang, Hyeri Kwon, Sungjun Kim, Jinho Kim, Kyoungho Ryou, Jungwan Ryu, Jinhyouk Shin, Youngsoo Kim
  • Patent number: 11089935
    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: December 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventor: Tom Minh Nguyen
  • Patent number: 11076733
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for attaching floor tools to a wheeled vehicle. The apparatus includes a mounting frame configured to secure to a frame of the wheeled vehicle and a floating frame rotatably attached to the mounting frame. The apparatus also includes pickup tubes attached to the floating frame. The pickup tubes are configured to attach to the floor tools. The floating frame is configured to move relative to the mounting frame based on undulations in a floor surface over which the floor tools travel. In other embodiments, a method is provided for assembling the apparatus. In still other embodiments, a method is provided for using the above apparatus with the wheeled vehicle. In still other embodiments, a wheeled vehicle is provided that includes the above apparatus and the one or more floor tools attached to the wheeled vehicle with the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: DYNAMIC CONCRETE, LLC
    Inventors: Ron Yagur, Patrick Pollitt
  • Patent number: 11071431
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a floor includes a housing, chassis, wheels, motor, steering mechanism, cleaning assembly, optionally a squeegee assembly, and at least one of a side sweeping system, front sweeping system, and pick-up system. The side sweeping system includes a turntable with central axis, a drive wheel disposed in coaxial relationship with the turntable, a sweeper motive device in communication with the drive wheel, a plurality of brushes distributed radially around the drive wheel and adapted to be driven by rotation of the drive wheel, and a pivoting connector configured to enable the side sweeping system to pivot laterally in response to contact with a wall while at least one of the brushes maintains contact with the floor adjacent the wall while the apparatus is in operation, and the brushes move debris disposed on the floor adjacent the wall toward the front of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2021
    Assignee: Diversey, Inc.
    Inventors: Dieter Windmeisser, Thomas Bahr, Markus Müller, Martin Forster, Markus Stofer, Laurent Ryssen, Thomas Tement
  • Patent number: 11058278
    Abstract: A nozzle for a cleaner includes a nozzle housing that has a suction flow path that allows air containing dust to flow therethrough. The nozzle also includes a driving device including a driving motor. Further the nozzle includes a rotation cleaning unit including a rotation plate which is connected to the driving device at a lower side of the nozzle housing. The nozzle also includes a mop attached to a lower side of the rotation plate. In addition, the nozzle includes a water tank mounted on an upper side of the nozzle housing and configured to store water. The water tank is separable from the nozzle housing. An upper side wall of the water tank forms an upper surface of the nozzle when the water tank is mounted on the nozzle housing, and a portion of a bottom wall of the water tank is configured to surround the driving device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Jinhyouk Shin, Jinho Kim, Hyeri Kwon, Sungjun Kim, Kyoungho Ryou, Jungwan Ryu, Ingyu Yang, Youngsoo Kim
  • Patent number: 11051671
    Abstract: A cleaner includes a body forming an external appearance, a rotating plate provided at a lower side of the body, a mop unit coupled to a lower side of the rotating plate so as to be in contact with a floor, a spin shaft connected to an upper side of the rotating plate so as to rotate the rotating plate, a water supply reservoir configured to surround a periphery of the spin shaft and spaced apart from the spin shaft so as to define a water supply space, and a water supply module configured to supply water to the water supply space. The rotating plate forms a water supply hole configured to interconnect the water supply space and the lower side of the rotating plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Jaewon Jang, Jeongseop Park, Youngkouk Song
  • Patent number: 11051670
    Abstract: A floor cleaning machine including an electrochemical cell having an anode, a cathode, an electrolyte, an electrochemical cell controller in at least one of unilateral and/or bilateral communication with at least one of the anode, the cathode, and the electrolyte, and wherein the electrochemical cell is associated with at least one of a recovery tank sub-assembly, a vacuum fan sub-assembly, a solution tank sub-assembly, a solution flow sub-assembly, a control console sub-assembly, at least one of a frame and wheel sub-assembly and a frame and transaxle sub-assembly, a scrub head sub-assembly, a scrub head lift sub-assembly, and a squeegee sub-assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: INTELLIGENT CLEANING EQUIPMENT HOLDINGS CO. LTD.
    Inventor: Nai Pong Simon Chen
  • Patent number: 11045062
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for steam cleaning comprise a steam cleaning device/system employed for steam cleaning or treating operations. In an embodiment, a steam cleaning device may comprise agitation features employed for steam cleaning or treating. In another embodiment, the steam cleaning device may be a steam accessory employed for steam cleaning or treating. In yet another embodiment, the steam cleaning device may comprise various features employed for multi-purpose steam cleaning or treating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: SharkNinja Operating LLC
    Inventors: Dan Innes, Lee Cottrell, Paul Grandstrand
  • Patent number: 11019803
    Abstract: An animal cleaning device for grooming an animal. The animal cleaning device may include a top portion that includes a plurality of actuators and a bottom portion affixed to the top portion. The bottom portion may include a suction vent, a blow vent, a heated airflow vent, a rotating brush, and a formulation dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: KIMOS CORP
    Inventors: Kamel A. Takla, Robert S. Hudson
  • Patent number: 11006800
    Abstract: By improving a structure of a discharge flow path of a robot cleaner, it may be possible to minimize a loss of a suction force, thereby reducing a noise without deteriorating cleaning efficiency. The robot cleaner includes a fan motor configured to generate a suction force, a first housing in which the fan motor is accommodated, a second housing in which the first housing is accommodated, and a chamber positioned between the first housing and the second housing, wherein a plurality of slits are formed in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ki Hwan Kwon, Jin Wook Yoon, Dong Wook Kim, Dong Woo Ha, Seok Man Hong
  • Patent number: 11000884
    Abstract: A system for cleaning a commercial food or beverage refrigeration unit may include: a liquid tank; a pump; a vacuum recovery tank; a vacuum motor assembly; a spray wand; a drain stopper; and a suction tool. The refrigeration unit may include a rack, a tray, a fan, a fan housing, a fan power cord, a fan housing power outlet, a coolant, a coolant coil, a pan, and a drain. A method of cleaning the refrigeration unit may include: filling the liquid tank; rinsing the rack by spraying liquid onto the rack; removing the rack; rinsing the tray by spraying liquid onto the tray; removing the tray; stopping the fan; stopping the flow of the coolant; positioning the drain stopper; elevating the fan housing; rinsing the coil by spraying liquid onto the coil; positioning the suction tool on the pan; and vacuuming soil and sprayed liquid into the vacuum recovery tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: Kaivac, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert S. Robinson
  • Patent number: 11000165
    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: May 11, 2021
    Inventors: Samuel Emrys James, Michael James Douglas, David Stephen Clare, Chris Pinches, Nicholas James Sardar, Hugh James Croggon, Damian Lee
  • Patent number: 10994404
    Abstract: An electric tool, such as an angle driver, has a main tool body with a front portion and a rear portion positioned opposite to the front portion. The main tool body houses a motor configured to receive electricity to function as a drive source. A gear head is coupled with the front portion of the main tool body wherein the gear head has a spindle in communication with a motor axis of the motor via mesh-engagement of bevel gears associated with the motor axis. The spindle has with a cutter tool accessory attached thereto such that rotation of the motor axis produces a commensurate rotation of the cutter tool accessory. Battery attachment portions are associated with the rear portion of the main tool body and are configured to receive a corresponding set of batteries that provide electricity to power the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: MAKITA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Miyabi Ito, Ryunosuke Kumagai, Shin Sugiura, Akira Mizutani, Takahiro Kawakami
  • Patent number: 10993594
    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: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 4, 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
  • Patent number: 10993595
    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: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 4, 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
  • Patent number: 10980378
    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: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 20, 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
  • Patent number: 10980386
    Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus, such as a carpet extractor, includes a base and a fluid recovery system for drawing dirty cleaning fluid from a surface to be cleaned. The fluid recovery system includes a suction nozzle in fluid communication with a recovery chamber. The suction nozzle is mounted to the base for vertical movement with respect to the base and is biased into contact with the surface to be cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventor: Tom Minh Nguyen
  • Patent number: 10980388
    Abstract: A hand-held rotary cleaning tool includes a housing that encloses an electric motor and a gear set that connects the motor to an output shaft. The rotary cleaning tool includes at least one cleaning accessory that is detachably connected to the output shaft, and a flexible splash guard. The splash guard surrounds the output shaft and cleaning accessory so as to prevent liquid splash during tool use. The rotary cleaning tool also includes a reservoir for storing a liquid cleaning solution, and a liquid delivery line that delivers liquid from the reservoir to the space enclosed by the splash guard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignees: Robert Bosch Tool Corporation, Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Christopher Crowell, Jeremy Rubens
  • Patent number: 10975814
    Abstract: A siphoning assembly for a fuel supply system comprises an adaptor body with a pressurized fuel inlet, a suction inlet and an outlet and an outlet passageway connecting the pressurized fuel inlet and the suction inlet to the outlet. A venturi nozzle extends in-line with the pressurized fuel inlet and opens into a suction chamber to create a pressure drop for pulling in fuel from the suction inlet which also opens into the suction chamber. The outlet passageway forming a liquid trap between the suction chamber and the outlet. The siphoning assembly may include a pressure relief valve connected to the pressurized fuel inlet formed as a bypass line of the pressurized fuel supply line. The siphoning assembly may be used in conjunction with an apparatus for modifying a fuel tank to add a fuel pump and baffle assembly which may include one-way check valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: Aeromotive, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven M. Matusek, Shawn D. Wessol, Dale A. White, Karl M. Brewer
  • Patent number: 10966579
    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: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 6, 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
  • Patent number: 10966580
    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: April 6, 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
  • Patent number: 10966586
    Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus includes include at least a recovery system for removing the spent cleaning fluid and debris from the surface to be cleaned and storing the spent cleaning fluid and debris. The recovery system is provided with a recovery tank having a removably strainer that is configured to strain large debris and hair out of the recovery tank prior to emptying the recovery tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Luyckx, Jacob Resch
  • Patent number: 10959594
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner is provided with a dispensing system for applying a treating agent stored on the vacuum cleaner to the surface to be cleaned. The dispensing system can include at least one container for storing a supply of treating agent and a dispenser for dispensing the treating agent to the surface to be cleaned. The dispensing system uses filtered working exhaust air to blow treating agent off the treating agent dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Victor Vito Caro, Jr., Alexander Joseph Reed
  • Patent number: 10932324
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a flange assembly for holding a heating device to a fluid container of an appliance accommodating a fluid to be heated, in particular a domestic appliance, comprising a flange unit arranged for being mounted to an opening of the fluid container by at least one fixing unit and having a non-sealing and a sealing and attachment position, wherein the flange unit is reversibly moveable from the non-sealing to the sealing and attachment position by means of the fixing unit for being configured to engage the opening of the fluid container in the sealing and attachment position, wherein the flange unit comprises a sealing element and a tensioning element, wherein the sealing element and the tensioning element are moveable relative to each other in an axial direction by means of the fixing unit such that the sealing element and the tensioning element can be pressed against each other, wherein the sealing element and the tensioning element are, in the sealing and attachment position, ar
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: BLECKMANN GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Johann Höfer, Martin Reichl, Peter Melcher, Georg Görg
  • Patent number: 10918254
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for performing autonomous self-service are described. A robotic device may identify a status of a chamber associated with the robotic device based on sensor data received from a sensor of the robotic device and pause an autonomous debris collection process of the robotic device based on the identified status. The robotic device may automatically remove a first container from the chamber based on the identified status and discard the first container away from the robotic device. In some examples, the robotic device may discard the first container at a fixed position within a geo-boundary corresponding to the debris collection process. The robotic device may resume the autonomous debris collection process based on an introduction of a second container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: QUALCOMM Incorporated
    Inventors: Jonathan Paul Davis, Katie Cooper Davis, Michael Franco Taveira
  • Patent number: 10912438
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a sweeping robot and a cleaning device. The sweeping robot includes: a flexible roller for cleaning the ground, a roller motor for driving the flexible roller to rotate, a pressing member for deforming the flexible roller to press out sewage. Clean water in the clean water sink flows through the clean water hole to the flexible roller. The sweeping robot further includes a sewage sink. The sewage sink is provided with a sewage hole is adjacent to the pressing member. The pressing member deforms the flexible roller, causing sewage to be pressed out of the flexible member and flow through the sewage hole into the sewage sink. The sewage sink is separated from the clean water sink. The cleaning device of the present invention has strong cleaning ability, and the flexible roller is easy to clean.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: HiZero Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yang Li
  • Patent number: 10898047
    Abstract: A fluid collection system for a floor maintenance machine provides improved collection of fluid, foam, and debris prior to the vacuum source. The fluid collection system includes a recovery chamber defining a volume, a hollow structure (such as a modified skirt) having an internal chamber, and a vacuum source in fluid communication with the volume of the recovery chamber via the internal chamber and a vacuum line. The vacuum source draws a vacuum in the volume of the recovery chamber by drawing a gas from the volume of the recovery chamber through the internal chamber of the hollow structure and through the vacuum line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: RPS Corporation
    Inventor: Sean K Goff
  • Patent number: 10856715
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a nozzle arrangement (10) of a cleaning device (100) for cleaning a surface (20), comprising: —a nozzle housing (28); —a rotating brush (12) that is rotatable about a brush axis (14) and comprises a substantially cylindrical core element (52) with flexible brush elements (16) that are arranged on a circumferential surface (56) of the core element (52), wherein said brush elements (16) are configured to contact the surface to be cleaned (20) and pick up dirt and liquid particles (22, 24) from the surface to be cleaned (20) during a rotation of the rotating brush (12); —a drive for driving the rotating brush (12); —a liquid supplying arrangement (58) for supplying a cleansing liquid (68) to the rotating brush (12); —a wiping element (32) for wiping dirt and liquid particles (22, 24) across or off the surface to be cleaned (20), wherein said wiping element (32) extends along a longitudinal direction (48), which is arranged substantially parallel to the brush axis (14), and wherei
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Johannes Tseard Van Der Kooi, Britt Roumen, Pieter Kingma, Matthijs Hendrikus Lubbers
  • Patent number: 10850313
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cleaning device for the dry cleaning of a tunnel, comprising a feeding device for feeding a flow of air to a surface being cleaned, wherein the feeding device has an exit opening, through which the flow of air emerges from the feeding device, and a removal device comprising at least one removal pipe with a free end with an opening for suctioning away direct or trash from the surface with the opening of the free end in a first direction. The feeding device is arranged such that the flow of air from the exit opening emerges from the feeding device in a second direction toward the opening of the free end of the removal pipe and impinges on the surface. The first direction is oriented at an angle between 45° and 80° to the second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: BRÜGGER HTB GMBH
    Inventors: Beat Bruegger, Matthias Bruegger, Thomas Bruegger
  • Patent number: 10827892
    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: August 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Alan J. Krebs, Thomas K. Ankney
  • Patent number: 10827902
    Abstract: An extraction cleaner is provided with a removable recovery tank having a recovery container, a drain opening quick-empty valve, and an actuator assembly for emptying the recovery container. The drain opening can be provided on a lower portion of the recovery container. The actuator assembly can selectively open the valve. At least a portion of the actuator assembly can be provided on an upper portion of the recovery container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventor: David M. Miller
  • Patent number: 10820762
    Abstract: A floor cleaner including a recovery tank in fluid communication with a vacuum source and a suction inlet. The recovery tank is configured to store cleaning fluid drawn through the suction inlet from a surface by the vacuum source. The recovery tank includes a tank body and a strainer. The tank body has a lower end wall and a sidewall that extends upwardly from the lower end wall and an inlet duct that extends upwardly from the lower end wall. The strainer is positioned inside the tank body, the strainer movable from a lowermost position to a removed position. The strainer includes a perforated body and an aperture through the body, the inlet duct extends through the aperture of the strainer, and the strainer engages an outer surface of the inlet duct retaining the strainer onto the inlet duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: TTI (Macao Commercial Offshore) Limited
    Inventors: Kirti Kant Paulla, Michael Paul Dawson, Don Lydic, Rafael Davila
  • Patent number: 10820764
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner includes a foot assembly having a suction inlet thereon, a suction source in fluid communication with the suction inlet to produce a working airflow there through, and a dirt container in fluid communication with the suction inlet and suction source. The foot assembly further comprises a body defined by a central portion and a pair of extension arms, a rotatable agitator on each extension arm, and a drive assembly configured to counter-rotate the agitators. The counter-rotating agitators are operable to cooperate with the suction source to direct dust and debris towards the suction inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventor: Alan J. Krebs
  • Patent number: 10813520
    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: July 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: TECHTRONIC FLOOR CARE TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventors: Patrick Diana, Douglas M. Rukavina
  • Patent number: 10814358
    Abstract: Methods and systems for cleaning floor surfaces are provided. In various embodiments, floor cleaning devices comprise enhanced cleaning and disinfecting capabilities. A clean fluid storage tank and a spent fluid storage tank are provided on-board the device. Means for creating cavitation bubbles to enhance cleaning are contemplated. Additionally, chemical agents and systems are contemplated for sanitizing surfaces as well as fluid that is captured or recaptured by the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: KARCHER NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Timothy Piwonka-Corle, Garrett Geer, Rylee Schauer
  • Patent number: 10813521
    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: July 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: TECHTRONIC FLOOR CARE TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventors: Patrick Diana, Douglas M. Rukavina
  • Patent number: 10813519
    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: July 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: TECHTRONIC FLOOR CARE TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventors: Patrick Diana, Douglas M. Rukavina
  • Patent number: 10786640
    Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a reversible airway device. The reversible airway device (10) can include: a supra-glottic airway support (12) comprising a multi-lumen tubular guide (14) and an optional sealing member (16); an endotracheal tube (26); and at least one seal (42). The multi-lumen tubular guide has a distal end portion (18), a proximal end portion (22), a first passageway (20) extending between the distal and proximal end portions, and a second passageway (24) that is non-concentric with the first passageway and also extends between the distal and proximal end portions. The at least one seal is disposed within the first passageway, the second passageway, or both, so as to occlude the flow of a gas through the first passageway and/or the second passageway. The endotracheal tube can be inserted into the first or second passageway and can traverse the seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignees: PARKER-HANNIFIN CORPORATION, THE CLEVELAND CLINIC FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Rafi Avitsian, Andrew Zura, Gino Banco, Sean Lee
  • Patent number: 10786131
    Abstract: A multi-functional cleaning and floor care system may have: a fresh liquid reservoir; a vacuum assembly including a vacuum recovery tank and a vacuum motor assembly; a wheeled chassis configured to support at least one of the fresh liquid reservoir and the vacuum recovery tank; and a spigot fluidly connected to the fresh liquid reservoir, with the spigot adjustable between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The system also may have: a liquid spreader assembly connected to at least one of the fresh liquid reservoir, the vacuum assembly, and the wheeled chassis, with the liquid spreader assembly including a frame and a spreader pad; and a squeegee head assembly connected to at least one of the fresh liquid reservoir, the vacuum assembly, and the wheeled chassis, with the squeegee head assembly fluidly connectable to the vacuum recovery tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: Kaivac, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert S. Robinson, Joshua L. Harrell, Robert W. Kyde, David W. Lloyd, John T. Richter
  • Patent number: 10786132
    Abstract: An extractor cleaning machine that includes a base movable along a surface to be cleaned, the base including a distribution nozzle and a suction nozzle. The extractor further includes a suction source in fluid communication with the suction nozzle. A recovery tank is in fluid communication with the suction source and the suction nozzle to receive the fluid drawn through the suction nozzle. The extractor further includes a supply tank including a first chamber for storing a first fluid, a second chamber for storing a second fluid, and a third chamber in fluid communication with the first chamber and the second chamber to receive the first and second fluids, the third chamber also in fluid communication with the distribution nozzle for supplying a mixture of the first and second fluids to the distribution nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited
    Inventors: Harald Krondorfer, Steven J. Paliobeis, Robert A. Salo, Patrick Quinn, Kevin Vail, Euan Macleod
  • Patent number: 10779697
    Abstract: A method for adjusting a position of suction lips of a floor cleaning machine relative to a floor to be cleaned is proposed, wherein a first suction lip and at least one second suction lip located at a distance therefrom, which are arranged on a suction beam, contact the floor, a fan device generates a suction flow which subjects a space between the first suction lip and the second suction lip to a negative pressure, a negative pressure is detected, and the suction flow is adjusted such that the negative pressure lies at a set value or in a set value range, so that an angle of incidence of the first suction lip and the second suction lip on the floor lies at a set value or in a set value range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG
    Inventors: Juergen Walz, Melanie Ritscher, Wilhelm Eisenmann
  • Patent number: 10773270
    Abstract: A fluid cleaning apparatus includes a driving assembly including a motor, a gear clutching assembly, a moving assembly, a swaying spray assembly, a sensing assembly, and a controlling module. The fluid cleaning apparatus integrates functions of movement actuation and spraying angle adjustment with the motor and achieves versatile spraying angles for spray-cleaning with apparatus configuration convertible between swaying motion and ceased swaying motion and/or between moving motion and ceased moving motion. Besides, self-propelled movement, spraying pressure modulation, and spraying angle adjustment can be controlled by the control module or manually remotely controlled by a user. Since the fluid cleaning apparatus of the present application saves the conventional installation cost and space needed, as well as resources consumed, for cleaning the bottom of an object to be cleaned, the fluid cleaning apparatus can be extensively applied to multiple fields.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Yi-Rong Zeng, Kuan-You Liu, Yu-Ping Wang, Chin-Cheng Wu, Min-Han Chiu, Yew-Shyang Lay
  • Patent number: 10729301
    Abstract: A floor cleaning machine having an intelligent system including a recovery tank sub-assembly, a vacuum fan sub-assembly, a solution tank sub-assembly, wherein the solution tank sub-assembly preferably includes a secondary electrochemical cell, a solution flow sub-assembly, a control console sub-assembly, a frame and wheel sub-assembly and/or a frame and transaxle sub-assembly, a scrub head sub-assembly, a scrub head lift sub-assembly, a squeegee sub-assembly, a solution flow sub-assembly, and an intelligent system associated with at least one of the above-identified sub-assemblies, wherein the intelligent system at least one of selectively gathers, obtains, monitors, stores, records, and analyzes data associated with components of the floor cleaning machine assembly, and at least one of controllably communicates and disseminates such data with at least one of another system and user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: Intelligent Cleaning Equipment Holdings Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nai Pong Simon Chen
  • Patent number: 10702117
    Abstract: A grout cleaning tool includes a grout cleaning tape. The grout cleaning tape can be provided as a replaceable grout cleaning cartridge containing a supply reel of grout cleaning tape that can be rolled across grout line grooves with an applicator roller. The grout cleaning tape can include a composition therein that is configured to be activated or enhanced by steam and transferred into the grout line to be cleaned when steam is applied to the tape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventor: Eric J. Hansen
  • Patent number: 10702116
    Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus such as an extractor is operable in a floor cleaning mode which utilizes a floor cleaning fluid flow path. The surface cleaning apparatus is also operable in an above floor cleaning mode which utilizes a different above floor fluid flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: Omachron Intellectual Property Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne Ernest Conrad, Daniel Innes, Adam Udy, Brian Burke
  • Patent number: 10646900
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are various embodiments of a system and method for operating a surface pressure washer with a wand component. The method may include the steps of cleaning a first surface through a first fluid path, where the first fluid path includes a pump, a pressure regulating valve, a diversion block, and a spray gun, while spray nozzles are not discharging fluid to a second surface, actuating a valve connected to the diversion block, thereby reducing the pressure available to the first fluid path and creating a second fluid path, where the second fluid path includes the pump, the pressure regulating valve, the diversion block and the spray nozzles, where the spray nozzles are configured to rotate above the second surface when the second fluid path is open, and cleaning a second surface underneath the pressure washer system through the second fluid path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Inventors: Clayton Boyd, Jennifer Boyd
  • Patent number: 10624515
    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 tank can be integrated with a fluid distributor in a removable, modular unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventors: Colin J. Bloemendaal, Kin-leung Tam, Wei-min Yi
  • Patent number: 10602903
    Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus is provided with a primary fluid distributor and an auxiliary fluid distributor. Each distributor can have a separate and independent flow control actuator. The flow control actuator for the auxiliary fluid distributor is operably coupled with a push-push flow control mechanism, where push-push flow control mechanism has a push on/push off configuration such that pushing the auxiliary flow control actuator once starts fluid flow from the auxiliary fluid distributor and subsequently pushing the auxiliary flow control actuator again stops fluid flow from the auxiliary fluid distributor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Assignee: BISSELL Homecare, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven M. Johnson, James Michael Preston, Alan Finnie, Mitchell J. DeJonge, Jason W. Pruiett
  • Patent number: 10602894
    Abstract: A portable surface cleaning apparatus has a main body, an air treatment member and a handle wherein the dirty air inlet is provided in the front face at a location below the horizontal plane, and wherein the handle overlies a portion of the cyclone chamber and the suction motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Assignee: Omachron Intellectual Property Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne Ernest Conrad