Abstract: A vacuum cleaner for cleaning a surface is disclosed. The vacuum cleaner comprises a main housing including a tank chamber, a motor-blower assembly for creating a vacuum, a recovery tank disposed within the tank chamber for storing contaminated liquid, a supply tank for providing cleaning liquid, a hose assembly and a fluid pump. The fluid pump pumps fluid from the supply tank onto a surface to be cleaned. The vacuum pump creates a vacuum across the recovery tank assembly and hose assembly to vacuum up dispensed cleaning fluid into the recovery tank assembly. Preferably, the supply tank may be a flexible bladder disposed within the recovery tank. The flexible bladder contracts as liquid is dispensed so that the volume for storing contaminated liquid within the recovery tank assembly increases. Preferably, the recovery tank may be removed from the main housing and a vacuum bag is fluidly connected between the hose assembly and the motor-blower assembly for dry vacuuming.

Abstract: A cyclonic power wash system and method of using the system to clean flat surfaces. The cyclonic power wash system uses high pressure, high temperature water for selectively cleaning large, flat, concrete or asphalt surfaces. The sprayed water is reclaimed by vacuuming it through holes in the bottom of a reclamation ring attached to the underside of the mobile cyclone sprayer, filtering the vacuumed water and returning it to a storage tank for re-use by the system. The filtration tank initially filters out large matter in an inlet trough and smaller matter in a plurality of cascading chambers. Removably constrained within each chamber of the filtration tank and in each downstream canister filter is at least one bag or pillow filled with water insoluble, hydrocarbon absorbent, substantially polypropylene material which absorbs oil, fuel and other hydrocarbon substances suspended in or floating on the water passing therethrough.

Abstract: A vacuum apparatus includes a holding tank, a vacuum source, and a docking station. The tank holds material and has an interior and an exterior. The vacuum source draws the material from the exterior into the interior of the tank. The docking station docks a pump on the exterior of the tank so that, when the pump is docked in the docking station, the pump may be used to pump material out of the tank and so that the pump may be detached from the docking station for stand alone use.

Abstract: A multi-use cleaning machine capable of use as an upright machine or as a detachable cleaning module is disclosed. A detachable cleaning module is selectively mounted to the foot and support member of an upright machine. The cleaning module includes the motor, motor-driven fan, dirt receptacle, and hose. The machine may be operated as an upright cleaning machine or, alternatively, the module can be separated from the foot and support member and may be used independently of and at a great distance from the foot and support member for a wide variety of cleaning purposes. The machine may be a vacuum cleaning machine or a water extraction cleaning machine.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fitting assembly for suction-washing machines, for cleaning floors, moquettes, carpets and the like. The fitting assembly comprises at least two tubular lengths, which are mutually removably coaxially associated with one another, each of which is provided with a body in which are provided a suction duct and a delivery duct which are parallel to one another.One of the tubular length is provided with a tapering end portions, which can be introduced into an end portion of the other tubular length; at one end portion of the delivery duct of a tubular length are provided connecting means, which can be removably tightly engaged with the end portion of the delivery duct of the other tubular length as the two tubular lengths are connected; the fitting assembly comprising, moreover, an end connecting element which can be coupled to end fittings having different diameter inlets.

Abstract: A hood with a depending side wall has vacuum passages formed in the inner surface thereof. An inner shroud positioned internally of the hood cooperates therewith in forming the vacuum passages and has a lower edge elevated above the surface to be cleaned. A foramenous skirt depends from the lower edge of the hood sidewall to contact the surface to be cleaned. The vacuum passages are connected to a source of vacuum. A rotating spray assembly inside the shroud sprays cleaning liquid onto the surface to be cleaned.

Abstract: A suction tube assembly for a wet/dry cleaner comprising a suction tube (60), a shampoo delivery conduit (44,45) extending along the suction tube, a valve forming a part of the conduit and operating means (50) for the user to operate the valve whilst manipulating the suction tube, the valve comprising a valve body (18) having a tubular portion within which is located a generally tubular portion of a valve piston (38), said tubular valve piston portion having a bore in its wall to provide communication between the interior and exterior of the tubular piston portion, means (37) biasing the piston towards a position in which sealing means (32,34) between the piston and the body prevent flow of fluid beyond said piston, said piston being movable axially by the operating means against said biasing means to release said sealing means and thereby allow fluid flow.

Abstract: A cleaning device for connecting to a wet vacuum cleaner is disclosed. The device includes a mouth piece with a rotably mounted cleaning roller and a liquid reservoir coupled to a manifold nozzle for wetting the roller. In operation, the liquid wets the roller, the roller rotates to scrub a surface and the mouth piece is connected to an operating wet vacuum cleaner so that air is drawn through the mouth piece along with debris directly from the surface and from the roller.

Abstract: A floor cleaning machine having an additional nozzle which is slidably insertable with respect to the machine's dirty liquid suction duct to thereby by-pass the dirty liquid suction duct to provide suction to a suction conduit associated with the additional nozzle and to simultaneously provide a source of cleansing liquid through a valve to the additional nozzle.

Abstract: The vacuum extractor of the present invention is a self contained system for delivery of hot cleaning solution to a surface and vacuum removal of the spent solution either simultaneous with its application or at a later time through a vacuum system which deposits the spent cleaning solution in an upper housing. The extractor is configured to dump the cleaning solution from an upper housing which may be pivotally tipped upwardly from the front to enhance the draining of spent solution. The rear of the extractor of the present invention is configured to enable the extractor to be back up to and located adjacent a toilet bowl. The upper housing containing the spent solution is high enough to be pivoted over the toilet bowl and emptied, while still pivotally attached to the lower housing. The dump valve is positioned to be protected from damage from bumping surrounding structure.

Abstract: A water extractor and nozzle for spraying fluid in an even distribution across a predetermined area. The nozzle comprises a tubular body with an axial fluid channel, which intersects a nozzle opening through which the fluid is sprayed onto the surface being cleaned. The nozzle opening is defined by opposed sidewalls connected to opposed end walls. The sidewalls are concave outwardly. The sidewalls and end walls define the spray coverage area and the shape of the opening controls the distribution of the fluid across the spray coverage area.

Abstract: A comprehensive diverse nonleaking cleaning apparatus consists of a cleaning portion that sprays water and cleaning fluid while receiving waste products of the sprayed fluid, a waste discharge device that temporarily stores and discharges waste collected from the cleaning portion, and a high pressure hose for spraying fluid therein attached to the cleaning portion and to a blow out motor pump. The apparatus sprays a mixture of water and cleaning fluid and simultaneously retrieves and temporarily stores the waste (including the original sprayed content) by means of an added pressure hose connected to a motor pump. The lavatory embodiment, usable by individuals with limited movement, such as elderly, disabled, bedridden patients etc.

Abstract: A combined nozzle and cleaning fluid dispenser for a fluid vacuum cleaning system is provided. The combined nozzle and cleaning fluid dispenser is for simultaneously applying a cleaning fluid and a vacuum force to a surface or object. The combined nozzle and cleaning fluid dispenser includes a hollow, rigid wand attached to a suction chamber having an open, free end. Attached to the wand is a cleaning fluid sprayer which includes a valve, a lever arm and a spray head for dispensing a cleaning fluid. In accordance with the present invention, the spray head is positioned within the suction chamber. In this arrangement, the cleaning fluid is substantially prevented from being dispensed from the suction chamber unless the suction chamber is in contact with a surface to be cleaned. The combined nozzle and cleaning fluid dispenser of the present invention not only prevents against pooling or puddling of the cleaning fluid but also allows for controlled and precise dispensation of the fluid.

Abstract: A vacuum steam wand for sanitizing a carcass includes a housing having a handle and a thermally conductive vacuum head with steam passages within that maintain the temperature of the vacuum head above a desired sanitizing temperature. The vacuum head includes a wall defining a vacuum region that is surrounded at the interior and exterior perimeter by multiple closely spaced steam nozzles that continuously wash the wall, spray the carcass to loosen contaminants and maintain the temperature of the wall at or above the sanitizing temperature. Only steam is used and water is not needed by the tool. A thermometer for monitoring temperature is provided and portions of the tool are coated with a nonstick coating to prevent contaminants from adhering due to the high temperature of the tool surface and to reduce friction with the carcass.

Abstract: A honeycomb tabletop, including a honeycomb core positioned between a top and bottom structural layer, wherein a number of cups are positioned between the bottom layer and the top layer, and at least some of the number of cups are sized and shaped to cooperate with the lower face of the top layer to form a cavity surrounding at least two of the plurality of holes in the top layer so that contaminants will be unable to pass through the surrounded holes into the honeycomb core. Preferably, these cups form a sealing engagement with the lower face of the top layer to facilitate rapid and thorough cleaning of contaminants from the cups.

Abstract: A novel upright carpet cleaning extractor is disclosed which may be conveniently converted from the floor cleaning mode to the upholstery and/or stair cleaning mode. The overall configuration and operation of the extractor is similar to that of a typical upright vacuum cleaner and may be operated in the forward or reverse direction similar to a typical upright vacuum cleaner. When in the floor cleaning mode, cleaning solution is supplied to a solution distributor by gravity flow. However, when converted to the upholstery cleaning mode an auxiliary, air turbine driven cleaning solution pump is automatically energized for supplying pressurized cleaning solution to an upholstery or stair cleaning nozzle.

Abstract: An accessory crevice cleaning tool adapted for use with a water extraction cleaning machine has a solution spray nozzle integrated therewith and a tapered, rectangular nozzle opening which does not exceed the diameter of the hose and grip tube. The spray nozzle can be adapted to provide a pinpoint spray pattern immediately adjacent the nozzle opening, a fan-shaped spray pattern which is parallel to and aligned with the longitudinal axis of the nozzle opening or a fan-shaped spray pattern which is transverse to and spaced from the longitudinal axis of the nozzle opening. Preferably, the accessory crevice cleaning tool is removably mounted to the end of the flexible hose.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner with a steam generator and a source of water under pressure has a suction hose connecting the suction head with the turbine and a dirt collector. Steam and pressurized water lines extend along the hose and the steam line runs to an orifice strip in a sole plate of the head while the spray nozzles are provided in a slot between a pair of brushes. The suction nozzle opens at a slot in the sole plate and sealing strips are provided along the longitudinal sides of the suction nozzle and the steam nozzle strip.

Abstract: A van-mounted or mountable cleaning system as disclosed includes a water heater having a burner therein to heat the water and a flue outlet to release combustion gases therefrom. A motor driven vacuum blower has an air input port and an output port for blower exhaust, both the water heater and the vacuum blower being mounted or mountable in an interior portion of the van body. A flue gas duct is connected to said flue outlet and extends downwardly toward lower extremities of the van body and then, in use, leads outwardly of the van body. An exhaust conduit enters into said flue gas duct in such manner as to create a Venturi effect therewith tending to draw combustion gases away from said burner along said downwardly extending flue gas duct and thence outwardly of a lower portion of the van body in which the system is installed.

Abstract: A liquid recycling and filtering system is well suited for use in continuous flow recycling surface cleaning devices. The system employs a canister containing a liquid cleaning solution, and a cylindrical filter submerged in the liquid and defining a chamber containing a portion of the liquid. A liquid supply conduit withdraws liquid from the chamber and supplies the liquid to a cleaning tool head, where the liquid is sprayed upon a floor or other surface being cleaned. A counterflow conduit is coupled to the liquid supply conduit and to the chamber, for transporting liquid under pressure to a spraying assembly within the chamber. The spraying assembly includes a rotatable manifold and nozzles at opposite ends of the manifold. The nozzles spray the liquid in planar, fan-shaped patterns that impinge upon the filter over limited surface areas.

Abstract: An extraction cleaning device is of the type having a cleaning head (60), a vacuum system (70, 80, 90) for applying suction at the cleaning head, a holding tank (10) for holding cleaning liquid, a pump (20) for pressurizing the liquid, and a delivery line for delivering the pressurized liquid to the cleaning head wand, where it is sprayed onto a carpet, upholstery, etc. The device is improved by the addition of a pressure reduction valve, having a calibrated orifice, which is hydraulically connected between the liquid delivery line and a return line to the holding tank. When the reduction valve is open, the delivery line pressure is reduced by the added leakage; this allows switching between high pressure jet spray for carpets and low pressure jet spray for upholstery, drapes, etc. For easy opening and closing of the reduction valve, it is preferably a solenoid valve activated by a switch.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for cleaning storage containers used in petrochemical or oil refineries. A remotely controllable dual tracked robotic vehicle is placed in a container to be cleaned. A cleaning fluid diluent material is directed against waste material in the container causing a portion of it to form a slurry which is vacuumed out by a nozzle and hose carried by the vehicle. A separator system exterior to the tank processes the removed slurry.

Abstract: "Suction attachment, spray member suitable for use in such a suction attachment, and vacuum cleaner provided with such a suction attachment."A suction attachment (1) for a vacuum cleaner (119) is provided, which suction attachment (1) has an underpressure chamber (7) with a suction opening (23, 25) and a discharge channel (9) for connection to a suction motor assembly (121) of the vacuum cleaner (119). In the underpressure chamber (7) there is an inner chamber (11) which comprises a spray member (73) for distributing a cleaning liquid over a surface to be cleaned. The spray member (73) comprises a distributor plate (79) which is positioned near an upper side (19) of the inner chamber (11) in a central position relative to an orifice (75) of the inner chamber (11). The distributor plate (79) extends parallel to the side walls (51, 53) of the inner chamber (11) and can be sprayed with the cleaning liquid from a spray nozzle (99).

Abstract: Processing machinery for cleaning, scrubbing, drying, and polishing produce, such as fruits and vegetables, utilizing centrifugal force produced by the relative rotation between a produce receiving rotating disc member and an opposed stationary disc member, both of which have surfaces in the form of brushes cooperating to treat produce that passes between the two brush surfaces to the disc members' periphery. Produce is introduced by a chute communicating with an inner diameter opening in the stationary disc member and falls onto the center of the rotating disc member where the rotating motion creates a centrifugal force urging it outwardly toward the disc members' periphery between the upper and lower brushes. When the produce reaches the disc periphery it drops off and is directed to a common discharge so that the brushes produce a 360 degree discharge of produce to a single discharge path out of the machine. The basic machine arrangement can also be used for drying and polishing produce.

Abstract: A cleaner unit for carpet and upholstery and the like includes an adjustable power control so that electrical power usage can be set in accordance with available circuit capacity. The cleaner unit includes multiple electrical loads such as a vacuum motor, a pump for delivering a cleaning fluid to a cleaning head or tool, and one or more resistance heaters for heating the cleaning fluid, wherein these loads are adapted for plug-in connection by one or more power cords to a standard domestic power circuit. An ammeter permits the current load to be monitored. In the preferred form, the adjustable power control is associated with one of the resistance heaters and permits the heater current load to be variably set according to the available current capacity of the power circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus for converting a vacuum cleaning apparatus having a first tank, a hose inlet and a suction source coupled to the hose inlet into a liquid dispensing and suctioning system includes a liquid holding tank for holding liquid, an attachment head having an outlet for dispensing liquid and an inlet for suctioning liquid, a housing attachable to the hose inlet and means including a pump disposed in the housing and coupled to the holding tank for delivering liquid from the holding tank to the outlet of the head.

Abstract: A deep cleaning/vacuum machine wherein the housing is provided with three separate switches for an agitator (brush), a suction motor, and a cleaning liquid pump. The switches may be conventional switches.

Abstract: The present invention is an air operated fluid handling apparatus for cleaning lithographic presses. It provides a printing press operator with a device for both dispensing ink solvents and removing spent fluids used in the printing process. Compressed air is regulated and directed to a T-section connector. One conduit extends from the connector to provide pressure in an ink-solvent container. Another conduit extends from the connector to a venturi which is used to create a vacuum in a used-fluid container. A conduit extends from each container and connects to a light weight flexible hose. Connected to the opposite end of the flexible hose is a valve and nozzle assembly that allows the press operator to alternate between dispensing ink solvent and remove spent fluid. With this apparatus the press operator can effectively move from printing head to printing head dispensing ink solvent and removing used fluids as necessary for ink train and dampening system cleanup.

Abstract: As a carcass moves down the conveyor in a meat processing plant, it may carry contaminants from an earlier processing step. The surface is sterilized, and the contaminants are removed by simultaneous delivery of steam to the surface and vacuuming away of the steam. A sterilizing hot water spray is controlled by a valve so that the operator may deliver it to particular spots that need more cleaning.

Abstract: For the purpose of blast-cleaning surfaces, in particular facades, a cleaning process and accompanying device have a working area with an air curtain and a suction device. The working area is tightly connected with the surface on one side via a contact opening and on the other side has a work opening through which the cleaning personnel can guide the cleaning jet nozzle while maintaining visual contact with the surface to be cleaned. The air curtain is formed along the work opening in such a way that no dust or blasting material can escape through the work opening from the working area.

Abstract: In order to reduce the energy consumption of the suction unit, on the one hand, and to improve the cleaning effect, on the other hand, of a wiper device for hard surfaces, in particular a window wiper, comprising a slit-shaped suction nozzle, on which a flexible wiper lip is arranged, which protrudes forwardly beyond the suction nozzle, it is suggested that the wiper lip be held on a wall of the suction nozzle and drawn against the opposite wall of the suction nozzle under the influence of a suction stream in the suction nozzle and thereby close the suction nozzle.

Abstract: The cleaning system has a head to which water is applied for cleaning carpets, etc. The head has a water nozzle for injecting hot water on the carpet, etc. and a vacuum inlet with vacuum hose coupled to a vacuum container. A lid having an outlet is provided for covering the top of the container. A hose is connected to the lid outlet and to a vacuum blower. A lid conduit forming the lid outlet extends through the lid with inlet openings formed through the lower portion of the outlet conduit. A chamber extends from the lower side of the lid surrounding the lower portion of the lid conduit with a bottom wall located below the lower portion of the lid conduit. A plate is connected to the bottom of the lid conduit and extends outward forming a dead space between the plate and the bottom wall of the chamber. An opening is formed through the side wall of the chamber for passage of air from the container into the chamber and to the vacuum device.

Abstract: A novel upright carpet cleaning extractor is disclosed which may be conveniently converted from the floor cleaning mode to the upholstery and/or stair cleaning mode. The overall configuration and operation of the extractor is similar to that of a typical upright vacuum cleaner and may be operated in the forward or reverse direction similar to a typical upright vacuum cleaner. When in the floor cleaning mode, cleaning solution is supplied to a solution distributor by gravity flow. However, when converted to the upholstery cleaning mode an auxiliary, air turbine driven cleaning solution pump is automatically energized for supplying pressurized cleaning solution to an upholstery or stair cleaning nozzle.

Abstract: A fabric cleaning apparatus and method uses ozone-bearing cleaning liquid which is spread over the fabric and then vacuumed up. The spreading and the vacuuming are both performed through a cleaning head or tool which has hoses to a vacuum cleaner and cleaning liquid tank. The cleaning liquid is ozonized by injecting air from a conventional ozone generator into the cleaning liquid tank or into the delivery hose. An air pump and/or a venturi in the cleaning liquid line are used for the air injection. The ozone in the air stream dissolves into the cleaning liquid, which both helps to clean the fabric and avoids excessive ozone concentrations in the air. The elements may be housed in a single movable unit.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaning system utilizing a small-mouthed nozzle on a vacuum hose member, such nozzle having an air outlet member disposed therein for the directing of a high-pressure air stream out of said nozzle at selected times onto the surface to be cleaned while vacuuming is occurring through said nozzle. Shampoo fluid can optionally be delivered to the surface to be cleaned with such high-pressure air stream.

Abstract: A multi-use power foot suitable for use for both dry vacuum cleaning and water extraction procedures is disclosed. The power foot has a dry suction chamber in fluid communication with an outlet and a water suction chamber in fluid communication with the outlet. A diverter valve member is mounted within the housing to selectively restrict the air flow from one of the chambers to the outlet. A rotating brush is mounted in the opening of the dry suction chamber to agitate the surface to be cleaned in both the dry vacuum cleaning and water extraction modes. Spray nozzles are mounted to the underside of the power foot to direct a water based cleaning solution to the surface to be cleaned.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an environmentally sensitive cleaning system, and more specifically relates to a closed loop high pressure cleaning system for cleaning surfaces without dislodging contaminants into the storm water drain or to the environment. The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus that satisfies this need. The apparatus comprises an established volume of fluid sufficient to circulate through the system, a pump to pressure the fluid to a cleaning head, a vacuum system to return the contaminated fluid to the system, and a filter means to remove the contaminants from the fluid so that clean fluid can be reintroduced to the cleaning head. The method comprises the steps of increasing the pressure of a fixed volume of fluid in a closed-loop system, jetting or blasting the surface with the pressurized fluid, vacuuming the blasted fluid into the system, and removing the contaminants from the fluid.

Abstract: An apparatus for producing heated water, including steam, to be used as a cleaning fluid, includes an internal combustion engine, a water heating assembly, a vacuum generating device, a cleaning assembly and a dirty water collector. The heating assembly includes piping and three heat exchangers. Two of the heat exchangers are located to receive exhaust gas directly from exhaust ports respectively of the engine. The third heat exchanger receives a mixture of gas which includes residual exhaust gases from the first and second heat exchangers and the output of the vacuum generator. Water is preheated in the third heat exchanger and finally heated in the first and second heat exchangers. The heated water is used at the cleaning assembly and partially reclaimed by the vacuum generator. Condensed water and dirt are collected in the collector and water vapor is further heated by and passed through the vacuum generator to the third heat exchanger.

Abstract: The water extraction machine according to the invention provides a quick connect system for mounting one end of a solution tube and vacuum hose to the water extraction machine housing and a simple and efficient means for conveying solution from the housing to a cleaning tool. One end of the vacuum hose and solution tube are received in a cuff member which is adapted to be received in the machine housing by a simple press fit interconnection. The cuff member provides a single connection for both the vacuum hose and the solution hose to the machine housing. The other end of the vacuum hose and solution tube are received in a clam shell grip tube handle which is in turn mounted to an extruded dual chamber wand. A first longitudinal chamber in the wand conveys vacuum through the wand and the second longitudinal channel conveys cleaning solution from the grip tube to the cleaning tool.

Abstract: A portable, compact and self-contained continuous flow recycling system includes a housing to accommodate a vacuum motor and liquid pump for recirculating a liquid cleaning solution and air. A pair of wheels supports the housing for tilting about a wheel axle. A pair of support arms are mounted to rotate on the axle, and their opposite ends are fixed to the shell of a cleaning head. The head is shaped to define a first compartment for receiving atomized cleaning solution and air, and a second compartment. A vacuum source draws the solution and air from the first chamber, across a partition near the floor, into the second compartment. The head is free to travel in an arcuate path relative to the housing, with its orientation determined by the arms, to insure a desired coplanarity with the floor or other surface being cleaned, when the head is in its operating position.

Abstract: A water/cleaning solution vacuum carpet cleaning apparatus includes a carpet cleaning wand having a carpet contacting end region, a source of pressurized water and a source of pressurized carpet cleaning solution. Piping and controls are included for selectively providing pressurized water and cleaning solution to the carpet contacting end region of the wand. Included is a dirty liquid-air separation vessel having an outer shell, an air tube coaxially installed in the shell and a dirty liquid tube installed in the shell and extending around portions of air discharge tube in a spaced apart relationship so as to form a first, inner annular space therebetween. A second, outer annular space is defined between the shell and the dirty liquid tube, a lower end of which is spaced above the bottom of the shell. A dirty liquid and air suction pipe extends through the shell and into upper regions of the inner annular space.

Abstract: An appliance adapted to be introduced into the interior of a pipe comprises a suction head arranged at the end of a flexible hose for suction air, which at the end adjacent to the hose has suction openings connected with the hose, carries a plurality of support wheels arranged in two planes perpendicular to the direction of insertion, and extending in a radial direction past the suction head, and is provided with a seal which is biased resiliently in a radially outward direction and is arranged between the suction openings and the hose.

Abstract: A method for preserving porous structures, including masonry structures having embedded structural or reinforcing steel rods, applies liquid preservative material to an exposed surface of the structure and injects the material into the structure using the blasting force of a compressed air stream at high velocity. The apparatus for practicing the method includes separate manifolds having multiple outlet nozzles provided for the liquid material and for the air streams, both manifolds covered by a shroud. The manifolds and their nozzles are arranged so that, as the liquid is applied to the surface of the structure, the high velocity air forces or injects it into the interior of the structure, so as to coat the interstices of the inner porous structure including any reinforcing steel therein, the high velocity air streams acting as a fluid hammer. The preservation of the structures occurs without the need of disturbing, breaking open or repairing brick, concrete or masonry structures.

Abstract: Multi-purpose appliance for household work comprising, in combination in a wheeled body, steam generation elements, elements for generating a jet of air and aspiration elements. Couplings for dispensing and aspiration ducts are connected to the steam generation elements, to the means for generating a jet of air and to the aspiration elements.

Abstract: A slat cleaning apparatus (10) is disclosed for use in cleaning slats making up a verticle blind. Cleaning of vertical blind slats is made complicated by the difference in thickness of the head, body and tail of the slat and by the needs to apply and remove a cleaning liquid without creating mess to surrounding slats and or windows. The slat cleaning apparatus has a head (16) with a slot (70) and a partable barrier located in the slot (70) for substantially sealing against the slat. A fluid extractor (50,74) is provided for operating under vacuum pressure to withdraw fluid and entrained matter from the head (16). Two cleaning elements (72) are provided substantially mutually parallel and located on opposite sides of the slot (70) for cleaning the slat. The cleaning elements (72) are compressible or moveable for operating at differing gaps to accommodate the differing thickness in the slats.

Abstract: A steam cleaner recovery tank has an inverted cup shape dome sealed thereto. An upright riser tube mounted to the recovery tank bottom wall extends into the dome. A flat horizontal plate intersects the vertical upright riser tube and supports a float ball at a rest position below a riser tube inlet port shielded from a dirt-free return air stream. The float ball rises by contact with liquid accumulating within the recovery tank. The float ball is of a density so as to be rapidly sucked into the inlet port by the dirt-free return air stream. A perforated cup integrally molded to the flat plate supports the float ball in one embodiment and forms a shield. In a second embodiment, a cylindrical wire mesh screen is fixed to the bottom of the flat plate, to the side of the riser tube. The float ball is positioned in the filter screen and the second circular hole constitutes the risers tube inlet port. An air imperforate shrink tube acts as a shield.

Abstract: A water/air separating mechanism receives dirty water, and separates the air from the dirty water before discharging the air. The mechanism includes a housing in which there is disposed a motor which sucks the dirty water and air along a passage which includes an interruption located above a water chamber. The interruption includes a water outlet spaced horizontally from an air inlet. Water leaving the outlet gravitates into the water chamber, and the air travels to the air inlet. That air passes through the motor and then travels through a zig-zag passage before being discharged from the body. A floating valve in the water chamber is arranged to close the air inlet when the water reaches a certain level. A wave dissipation device in the chamber resists the creation of waves in the chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus for recovering liquid from liquid contaminated small articles of manufacture has a housing which defines upper and lower chambers separated by an inclined perforated plate. A vacuum producer withdraws air from the housing causing liquid contaminated articles discharged from a production machine to be drawn into the housing through a flexible suction hose. Liquid contaminated articles entrained within the incoming airstream enter the housing, strike a target plate, and drop onto the perforated plate. Liquid drains from the articles, passes through the perforated plate, accumulates in a sump in the lower portion of the housing and is pumped to a recovery station. An access opening in the housing facilitates removal of the articles from the housing.

Abstract: The suction capabilities of a original-equipment (O.E.) extractor providing inadequate suction are enhanced, thereby avoiding the need to purchase another and more expensive extractor, by the addition to it of a vacuum booster. The booster contains its own blower and an electric motor for driving the blower, and the inlet of the blower is connected to the outlet of the O.E. extractor. The booster is conveniently mounted to the O.E. extractor by means of suction cups. A doubling of the suction level can be achieved in this manner.

Abstract: A water heater for a carpet cleaning system has a first chamber and a main heat exchanger disposed within the first chamber, the main heat exchanger utilizing heat from a first source, preferably an engine, to heat water to be used in the carpet cleaning process. A second chamber substantially surrounds the first chamber and utilizes heat from a second source, preferably a blower in fluid communication with the carpet cleaning system's water tank. The second chamber substantially surrounds the first chamber to provide a thermal barrier between the first chamber and the ambient environment. The use of such a thermal barrier substantially reduces undesirable heat loss from the first chamber to the ambient environment and thus increases the efficiency of the water heater. A third chamber in fluid communication with the second chamber is heated by a second source and provides heat from the second source to the second chamber.