Abstract: An apparatus having utility for cleaning large, non-horizontal surfaces such as walls. A generally planar head is adapted to be oriented in a generally vertical manner during use, such that it will have a top, bottom, two sides, and front and rear surfaces. A fibrous pad is sized to cover a substantial portion of the front surface of the head. The pad is selectively removable from the head; but during use the pad is firmly held against the friction forces that are imposed on it by moving the head across the surface being cleaned. A plurality of reservoirs, a conduit, and a pump are provided for supplying a selected cleaning or rinsing liquid at a controlled rate to the top of the head. A low-pressure chamber adjacent the rear of the head is used to collect arty liquid that: has passed through the fibrous pad.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning waste collection systems of solid materials using normal and injected water flow to suspend the solids in a slurry, A submersible pump moves the slurry from a collection point up to a pressurized container where the water content of the slurry is decanted and reused as injection water while the particulate material settles to the bottom of the pressurized container. When the container is filled with solid material it may be removed for emptying at a waste dump.

Abstract: A floor scrubber with recycled cleaning solution provides a single cleaning solution tank. Cleaning solution is delivered to powered scrubbers, and particulate-bearing contaminated cleaning solution is vacuumed from the floor after use by the scrubbers. The particulate-laden cleaning solution is returned to the storage tank through a primary large area filter located within the storage tank. Subsequently, the partially regenerated cleaning solution is pumped out of the tank through an intermediate filter and is discharged to the scrubbers through a pair of series-connected filters capable of removing very small particles from the cleaning solution. Rechargeable batteries power the unit. The unit can be operated as a self-contained unit without servicing for a period of at least about six to eight hours.

Abstract: An improved cleaning system of the type which applies a cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned and then vacuums the dirty cleaning fluid from said surface is provided. The system includes a cleaning fluid pump for delivering pressurized cleaning fluid to spray nozzles attached to either a floor nozzle or a hand tool. Both the floor nozzle and the hand tool are connected to the suction and cleaning fluid connectors of the main cleaner unit by a one-step connection which connects both fluid and suction lines in a single motion. The hand tool, which is attached to the main unit by a hose assembly, has its own pinch valve for controlling the application of cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned. When the hand tool is being used the trigger which actuates the pump may be locked in the "on" position.

Abstract: Apparatus for cleaning flat surfaces comprising a collector (1) for dust and liquid connected to a suction moto-ventilator group (2) and to a suction (3). A reservoir (4) for cleaning liquid is connected to an injection pump group (5), itself connected to a nozzle (6) provided in the suction, as well as an electrical control (7) for the suction group. The injection group, said collector (1) and the reservoir (4) are mounted removably on the upper surface (8) of a base (9) which encloses the suction group (2) and injection group (5). The base (9) comprises an arch (21) which extends above the upper surface (8) of the base (9) in a transverse plane and which comprises two lateral members (23, 26) and a medial member (22) mounted articulately on one of the lateral members. The medial member (22) has at its free end (24) a locking member (25) with the other lateral member ( 26). A retainer immobilizes the collector and the reservoir on the base (9) when the medial member (22) is locked.

Abstract: An extractor having a cleaning solution line which extends from the solution tank to a non-self-priming pump and to the normally closed valve which controls the flow of liquid on to the cleaning head. The extractor uses a manually operated priming pump to draw cleaning solution from the solution tank through the cleaning solution line to the non-self-priming pump. Following activation of the manually operated priming pump, a check valve directs the cleaning solution to the operating non-self-priming pump to effect priming of said pump. Solution is then controlably pumped past the fluid flow control valve to the cleaning head. The check valve remains open while the pump is in operation.

Abstract: A vacuum extractor has a tank assembly including an outer tank and a coaxial inner tank. The inner tank has an open top which is reversibly closed by a cover assembly which includes a vacuum source and a liquid pump. The cover assembly also includes a hose connection in communication with said inner tank and said vacuum source enabling said inner tank to receive either wet or dry materials. The outer tank is substantially closed having an input port closed by a closure member configured in the form of a measuring cup. The outer tank is used for containing a cleaning material which can be accessed through a hose which passes through an aperture in the outer wall of the tank. The hose has an external connector for supplying cleaning material to the liquid pump in the cover assembly which, in turn, supplies the cleaning material to a cleaning tool. The unit is supported by casters which are recessed into the bottom of the tank assembly.

Abstract: An independent unit heat exchanger is provided downstream of a machine for cleaning upholstery and/or carpets so that unheated detergent water from the cleaning machine passes through a hose and then through the heat exchanger where it is heated to an elevated temperature, and then to the cleaning nozzle where it is discharged. The heat exchanger is provided with an electric heating core about which pipe carrying the detergent water is coiled.

Abstract: A mobile, self-contained, environmentally safe, cleaning apparatus, including a supply of recycleable cleaning fluids and devices for heating, filtering and pressurizing such fluids for removing, capturing and packaging for safe disposal oils, dyes, fibers, lead paint and contaminated hazardous wastes, with the apparatus equipped with a water tank, a liquid ring pump adapted to create a wet vacuum recovery system, a water heater, a waste particle/liquid separator, a demister filter, and a retractable combined fluid supply and vacuum recovery umbilical cord for attachment to external remote cleaning devices.

Abstract: A wet vacuum/extractor having a first cleaning solution line which extends from a cleaning solution tank to a non-self-priming pump and a second cleaning solution line which extends from the pump to a normally closed fluid flow control valve which controls the flow of liquid on to the cleaning head. The vacuum priming system of the present invention opens the second cleaning solution line to the vacuum generated between the cleaning head and the vacuum fan. This vacuum beyond the output of the pump draws solution from the solution tank into the operating pump. Once the pump is thus primed, the second cleaning solution line is closed to the vacuum and the pump now pumps the solution past the closed fluid flow control valve to the cleaning head.

Abstract: A freon recovery workstation including a collection tray for collecting and recovering liquid freon from the work area, forced air passageways disposed above and below the work area for drawing and receiving freon vapor, a freon-adsorbing unit connected to the forced air passageways for adsorbing and recovering the freon vapor, and a freon applicator in the form of a hand tool for aiming and regulating the use of freon.

Abstract: A method for forming an in-line heater for heating water supplied to a hot water carpet cleaning extractor includes the formation of a spiral flange upon the exterior surface of an elongated cylindrical body having a bore therein to define a heat exchanger. The flanged heat exchanger is inserted into a cylindrical housing having an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the spirally flanged heat exchanger by heating the housing to increase the inner diameter thereof sufficiently to allow the spirally flanged heat exchanger to be be received therein. Upon cooling, the housing shrinks into watertight engagement with the spiral flange to define a spiral water floe conduit between the ends of the in-line heater. The first and second ends of the heat exchanger are then welded to the housing. Quick disconnect fittings are threaded into the in-line heater to establish communication with the end of the spiral water conduit.

Abstract: A portable cleaning apparatus including means for suctioning spent cleaning fluid and recoverable debris, dirt and contaminates from the surface being cleaned, including a portable cart housing a auger type tumbler adapted to received vacuumed debris and wherein the tumbling debris is subject to blast spray cleaning liquids. A recovery chamber at one end of the tumbler provides a closed trap door that retains cleaned debris within the cart until the vacuum suction is disrupted at which time, the trap door is opened, the debris is then deposited, thoroughly cleaned onto the supporting surface.

Abstract: The invention is an improvement in floor-standing machines for cleaning inside surfaces of buildings such as walls and ceilings. The improved machine includes a first support for supporting the apparatus in an upright orientation and a second support for supporting the apparatus in a horizontal orientation. The machine may readily be moved on the floor in the upright orientation and in dolly-like fashion and supported on the floor for use in a "face up" horizontal orientation. The machine has modular dirt-collection, cleaning solution and rinse water tanks, each of which is slidably attached to a mounting member. The tanks are readily removable for filling and/or emptying as needed. Implements such as cleaning wands and the like are conveniently stored at the side of the machine.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner includes a housing having a suction opening disposed between front and rear brushes for sucking dirt from a floor. A rag disposed behind the rear brush is rotatably driven about a transverse axis by the reciprocal action of the housing as the latter is displaced along the floor. A water supply keeps the rag moist. The rag is driven such that the floor-engaging portion is driven in a direction opposite the direction of housing travel. An auxiliary opening in the suction line sucks dirt from the rag at a location above the floor.

Abstract: A liquid extraction surface cleaning apparatus having a cleaning solution tank and a recovery tank held in a floor-supported carriage with the tanks having sidewalls extending above the carriage. A housing which contains a suction fan, a suction chamber, a suction inlet connecting with the chamber and a water and air separator sits on top of the tanks with the suction chamber over the recovery tank. The housing is latched to the carriage capturing the tanks. A cleaning solution dispensing means extracts cleaning solution from the solution tank. Each tank has a pivotally connected handle and the cleaning solution tank has a chemical dispensing tray integral to its handle.

Abstract: An improved cleaning apparatus for cleaning carpet, upholstery and the like includes a housing, a first storage tank removably carried in the housing for storing a liquid cleaning solution, a dispensing pump for dispensing the cleaning solution to an area to be cleaned, a vacuum motor for suctioning excess cleaning solution and other material extracted from the area, and a second storage tank removably carried in the housing for accumulating excess cleaning fluid and other material extracted from the area. Respective upper portions of the first and second storage tanks extend above the housing when the first and second storage tanks are carried therein. The first and second storage tanks are each equipped with a pair of handles to facilitate removal and replacement of the respective tanks. A quick disconnect fitting is provided for locating the first storage tank so that the first storage tank is in fluid communication with the dispensing pump.

Abstract: Machine for removing residues such as oil, grease and diesel fuel spills from streets, parking lots and other paved surfaces. The machine comprises a mobile supporting vehicle having water supply and recovery tanks forming an integral part thereof. A steam generator is mounted on the vehicle for heating water from the supply tank to produce highly pressurized hot water and steam, and a hose and wand are connected to the steam generator for directing the pressurized water and steam against a surface to be cleaned. A pick-up wand and hose are connected to the recovery tank, and a vacuum pump is connected to the recovery tank for drawing water and residue from the surface through the pick-up wand and hose to the recovery tank. A filter is provided at the inlet of the recovery tank for removing particulate residue from the recovered water, and excess residue is bypassed around this filter to prevent the residue from backing up into the pick-up hose and clogging the hose when the filter is full.

Abstract: This invention is a portable support apparatus comprising a mounting frame or yoke which can be supported about the hips of a worker or be attached to a machine or robot. A pivoting assembly pivots a rod having one end secured to the pivoting assembly to adjust the rod angle relative to the mounting yoke. A head assembly attachment means is secured to the rod at its other end, and is adjustable to a plurality of pitch angles relative to the rod to facilitate contact with the surface to be worked on. A head assembly is attached to the rod which may support a variety of material-removing devices including scrubbers, brushes, and scrapers, all of which can rotate circularly or eccentrically or vibrate to facilitate removal of material from surfaces. The head assembly also may include fluid projection nozzles, and vacuum apertures for connection to vacuum systems for removal of materials. The head assembly may also be adapted for use as a tool for the application of various substances on a surface.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner which is able to be used for water extraction cleaning and for dry suction cleaning. The cleaner comprises a dry suction cleaning device and a water extraction cleaning device which are movable individually under the connected condition thereof. The water extraction cleaning device includes an air-liquid separation surface such that air and liquid impinge against the air-liquid separation surface, thereby causing entrained liquid droplets to be separated from the incoming air, a second air-liquid separation surface disposed at downstream of the first separation surface such that air and liquid past the first separation surface impinge against the second air-liquid separation surface, thereby causing small droplets to be separated from air. The present vacuum cleaner perfectly prevents water from incoming toward a motor, that is a suction device and effectively cleans smooth flat floors as well as carpet, when used for water extraction cleaning.

Abstract: A two-part, hand-held portable cleaning system provides the ability for washing and vacuum cleaning printing stencil screens and the like in-situ in an environmentally safe manner. The system includes a vacuum-assisted drip pan and an applicator brush with a specially designed low-pressure, solvent-dispensing nozzle. The drip pan is held beneath the stencil or screen while the applicator brush floods the area to be cleaned with solvent, thus dislodging the accumulated printing medium by the mechanical action of the brush. Much of the contaminated solvent flows through the stencil or screen into the drip pan below. Vacuum hoses attached to both the drip pan and the applicator brush remove the liquid solvent and any solvent vapor in the vicinity. A separation chamber is located in the air vacuum circuit between the blower and the hoses and is positioned above the reservoir connected thereto by a gravity-feed drain line.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method of preparing and inspecting a submerged surface of a fluid reservoir. The apparatus includes a chassis sized and shaped to provide an optimally low center of gravity, a propulsion system comprising two independently controllable motor and track means, a scrubbing/vacuuming system disposed at the front of the chassis which includes a scrubbing system designed to mechanically break up sediment on the surface beneath the apparatus and a vacuuming system to remove sediment and sediment-containing fluid from beneath the apparatus, and an inspection system located immediately behind the scrubbing/vacuuming system with respect to the direction of apparatus travel and operative to inspect the freshly cleaned surface with either ultrasonics, optics, or a combination of both.

Abstract: The specification discloses a wet vacuum/extractor including an add-on liquid dispensing system. A liquid supply tank removably mounts on the vacuum and couples with the vacuum exhaust for momentarily pressurizing the tank to prime the liquid dispensing system. A remote pump is included at the wand handle and is powered by low voltage current from the vacuum.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner of a detergent injection type uses a part of the suction force of a vacuum impeller actuated by a main motor to pump detergent to a remote cleaning implement. To this end, the vacuum cleaner includes a rotation device disposed in a passage of discharge air and rotated by discharge air and a pump device rotating simultaneously with the rotation device to pump up detergent to the detergent supplying device. Whereby, it has no need of additional motors and is made compact and economical in the construction.

Abstract: Apparatus for peeling fruits and vegetables comprises a plurality of rotatably driven peeling elements having predetermined axes of rotation that are generally horizontal and substantially parallel to one another. The peeling elements have a provision for engaging the peel of the fruits and vegetables. A plurality of flexible, elongate, peeling enhancement fingers, each having a first end and a second end, are mounted to the apparatus above the peeling elements by their first ends. The first ends lie in a generally horizontal row that is generally parallel to the axes of rotation of the peeling elements. The fingers extend generally toward the peeling elements with the second end of each finger being proximal at least two peeling elements, so that the finger engages the item of fruit or vegetable being engaged by the adjacent peeling elements. A support structure provides support for the peeling elements, fingers and drive mechanism.

Abstract: A self contained mobile unit for cleaning carpets or other industrial cleaning applications and for liquid recovery and storage is described. The unit contains large fresh water and waste water storage tanks and a high pressure water pump and vacuum blower unit. The water pump and blower are powered by a hydraulic motor which in turn is powered by a hydraulic pump driven from a power take off from the main motive engine of the mobile unit.

Abstract: Apparatus for and method of cleaning carpet or the like in conjunction with a vacuum source and a source of pressurized cleaning fluid. The apparatus includes an elongate handle to which is attached a cleaning head. The cleaning head includes a forward wall and a striker plate disposed in generally parallel relationship to form a vacuum chamber. A nozzle assembly for dispensing the pressurized fluid is carried by the cleaning head so as to direct the fluid against the striker plate at a point above the carpet surface. Alternative embodiments include the addition of one or more brushes disposed in front of the striker plate. The method includes so directing the fluid so that it is drawn around the edge of the striker plate, through the pile of the carpet and into the vacuum chamber as the apparatus is moved across the carpet.

Abstract: A continuous washing apparatus is provided which comprises an elongate washing vessel 1 having an inlet 2 for receiving objects to be washed at one end thereof. An outlet 3 is provided for discharging objects W to be washed at the other end thereof. The elongate washing vessel is arranged in an inclined manner so that the inlet is located downwardly and the outlet is located upwardly. A conveyor is disposed within the washing vessel for conveying the objects from the area adjacent to the inlet toward the area adjacent to the outlet. A washing structure 14 15 is provided for washing the objects. The conveyor includes a screw body 4 rotatably mounted on the washing vessel 1, and a drive mechanism for driving the screw body. The screw body includes a continuous length of fin 5 which extends helically around the longitudinal axis of the washing vessel.

Abstract: A liquid extraction surface cleaning apparatus having a cleaning solution tank and a recovery tank held in a floor-supported carriage with the tanks having sidewalls extending above the carriage. A housing which contains a suction fan, a suction chamber, a suction inlet connecting with the chamber and a water and air separator sits on top of the tanks with the suction chamber over the recovery tank. The housing is latched to the carriage capturing the tanks. A cleaning solution dispensing means extracts cleaning solution from the solution tank. Each tank has a pivotally connected handle and the cleaning solution tank has a chemical dispensing tray integral to its handle.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method of use for cleaning a textile floor covering. The subject apparatus comprises a cleaning composition reservoir, a container holding a pressurized gas, an adjustable valve for regulating the pressure of the released gas, a gas delivery conduit connecting the gas container to the reservoir, an application wand having an atomizing nozzle that generates a mist of cleaning composition, and a cleaning composition conduit connecting the wand and the reservoir. The method comprises misting the cleaning composition onto the floor covering, agitating the wetted fibers, and buffing the floor covering to assist in drying.

Abstract: A surface cleaning system which allows a sponge or other cleaning element to receive cleaning fluid transported by conduit from a pressurized cleaning fluid container and to apply the same to a surface to be cleaned. A vacuum source extracts the used cleaning fluid from the surface as the operator moves the cleaning element back and forth over the surface to be cleaned to remove the cleaning fluid and contaminants therefrom. The used cleaning fluid then travels by a conduit to a separation container where it is filtered and collected. The used cleaning fluid or fresh fluid can be pumped by a sump pump to a flush basin for rinsing or cleaning the cleaning element. The sump pump is controlled by a pressure valve located in the base of the flush basin. The complete system is typically operated on 115VAC and is portable by way of a push cart.

Abstract: A high pressure cleaner comprises a cleaning device (10) and an effluent recovery device (12). The cleaning device (10) is mainly constituted by a cleaning head (20) having a central chamber (44) into which a nozzle (26) sprays a high pressure cleaning liquid, the effluents being recovered in a peripheral chamber (46) connected to a decanter (54) of the recovery device (12). The actual decanter (54) is connected to an exhauster (72) across a liquid-gas separator (60) and filters (70). The liquid phase of the effluents is periodically recovered by a tube (80) immersed in the decanter (54) and connected to a hydroejector (82). The solid phase of the effluents is held back by a filter (92) surrounding the tube (80).

Abstract: A back flush filter system for a cleaning apparatus which includes a hollow filter member with a flow diffusing member inserted therein to cause the flow through the filter to be diffused into a substantially circumferential uniform flow passage through the entire area of the screen in both the filtering mode and the back flow mode of operation and including an atmospheric air vent to permit air entrapped within liquid flow system to escape and thus maintain a substantially air free liquid flow system.

Abstract: This invention relates to a computer servicing cart which includes a structural frame for use in defining a housing for the cart and for use in carrying and rollably supporting said housing. The frame includes a base, uprights, and angular struts connecting the uprights and base. A cross member and a handle are secured to the uprights. Rolling means are secured to the base. Rearward rolling means are provided and includes an angularly disposed mount system for positioning larger rear wheels rearwardly for ease of rolling. The housing is formed about the frame and includes a forward section and a rearward section. The forward section is provided for carrying servicing items and the rearward section carries a vacuum tank, gas cylinder and a hose reel. The rearward section includes a depressed well section in the center thereof for receiving the hose reel in a lowered position. The top of the cart includes a foldable top for opening onto the handle and providing a work surface.

Abstract: An elongate cleaning head; including a suction chamber having an open mouth and a centrally disposed outlet for connection to a source of suction; and an inner compartment extending substantially medially within the suction chamber and having side walls defining an open mouth substantially in the plane of the open mouth of the suction chamber, the inner compartment having associated therewith a cleaning liquid distributing chamber formed with a plurality of closely spaced fine outlet passageways adapted to allow cleaning liquid to flow into the inner compartment at a position spaced from the mouth thereof, wherein the suction chamber is divided into two laterally spaced suction zones by means of a central baffle which diverges in a direction away from the open mouth of the suction chamber towards an upper zone of the suction chamber into which upper zone said outlet opens.

Abstract: A suction cleaning head, including a body defining a suction chamber having a boundary wall defining an open mouth and having an outlet adapted to be connected to an air extraction means, and an inner compartment extending across the suction chamber and having a substantially planar open mouth substantially in the plane of the open mouth of the suction chamber, wherein the inner compartment is divided by a separating wall into an outer liquid delivery chamber adjacent to the open mouth of the inner compartment and an internal liquid reception chamber which extends across the suction chamber and which has an inlet adapted to be connected to a supply of cleaning liquid, and a plurality of liquid flow passageways extending through the separating wall between the liquid reception chamber and the liquid delivery chamber, and wherein an air-flow passageway extends from the interior of the liquid reception chamber to a position within a low pressure zone downstream of the open mouth of the suction chamber.

Abstract: The cleaning apparatus includes a support device for supporting a spray member for receiving and spraying hot liquid onto a surface to be cleaned and a vacuum head for withdrawing liquid and material from the surface by reduced pressure. Also included are a container, a manifold haivng first and second chambers, a pump, and a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger inlet is coupled to the first chamber and a flexible high pressure liquid conduit is coupled to the heat exchanger outlet and to the spray member by way of a control valve. The pump inlet is coupled to the second chamber and the pump outlet is coupled to the first chamber. A return conduit is coupled from the flow control valve to the second chamber. A pressure adjustment valve is coupled to the two chambers for controlling variations of the pressure in the two chambers and hence at the pump outlet.

Abstract: The cleaning apparatus has a liquid spray device and a vacuum head attached to a movable support member. A container is provided for holding a supply of liquid. A liquid pump has its inlet coupled to the container and its outlet coupled to a heat exchanger. The outlet of the heat exchanger is coupled to a high pressure liquid conduit which is coupled to the spray device by way of a flow control valve. A return conduit is coupled from the flow control valve to the container. Two electrically actuated vacuum blowers are provided with the first blower having its inlet coupled to a vacuum tank and its outlet coupled to the inlet of the second blower. The vacuum head is coupled to the vacuum tank by way of a conduit. A switch is provided for completing a circuit to the first blower and by way of a time delay circuit to the second blower whereby when the switch is closed, the first blower begins to operate and after a time delay, the second blower begins to operate.

Abstract: An improved scrub head for a cleaning wand to be used with a floor cleaning machine. The scrub head is supplied with vacuumized air and pressurized cleaning solution through the wand from the machine. The scrub head has a nozzle for applying cleaning solution to the floor, a powered rotating tool such as a brush or a pad for scrubbing the floor, and a vacuum pickup shoe or squeegee for picking up soiled cleaning solution. The squeegee, when used, has flexible lips of a novel and improved design. The rotating tool is driven by an air turbine which takes in its air from essentially clean ambient atmosphere, and a valve selectively and automatically connects the vacuumized air to either the turbine outlet, thus causing the turbine and tool to rotate for scrubbing the floor, or to the pickup shoe or squeegee for picking up soiled cleaning solution and debris.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for skimming contaminants from a reservoir of a liquid such as an industrial solvent, including a tubular wand having an end inlet extending into the reservoir, a pressure air line extending along the wand, the air line protruding a side wall of the wand and terminating at a nozzle proximate the inlet, the nozzle being directed into the wand, away from the inlet for producing a vacuum. The wand is adjustably mounted to a base that attaches to the reservoir, and is connected to a vented container for collecting the contaminants that are drawn into the wand. Contaminants can be removed from the surface of the liquid, from proximate the bottom of the reservoir, or from a submerged layer concentrated at an intermediate depth within the reservoir.

Abstract: An asbestos collection and containment device for use in the removal of asbestos from ceiling or other accessible elevated asbestos covered structures. The collection device contains and directs the removed asbestos into a scaffold supported flexible walled enclosure having a constant exhaust air flow filtration and associated wetting apparatus. The asbestos collection device is a mobile self-contained containment removal structure that automatically bags the removed asbestos for approved disposal.

Abstract: A carpet cleaning apparatus consisting of a housing having a lower surface and an interior cavity. Wheels are secured adjacent to the lower surface of the housing. A conduit is secured to the housing. The conduit has a first end whereby the conduit may be coupled to a water supply and a second end with spray jets whereby fluids may be injected into a carpet. A discharge tank is secured within the interior cavity of the housing. The discharge tank has two suction ports, and two fluid inlets. Two suction conduits are provided. Each suction conduit has a first end communicating with one of the fluid inlets of the discharge tank and a second end disposed adjacent the lower surface of the housing. Two suction motors are secured in the interior cavity of the housing, each of the suction motors communicating with one of the suction inlets of the discharge tank such that a vacuum is created within the discharge tank and the suction conduits.

Abstract: A blind cleaner for mini blinds has a handle with an operating center at one end. The handle includes connections for a supply of water and detergent under pressure, and for a vacuum line. The operating center includes a nozzle from which water is dispensed, the nozzle being covered by foam for dispersion of the water. Both the water supply and the vacuum are connected to the operating center. There are holes in the operating center for allowing air to pass into the device. The result is that water is dispensed to clean a surface, and the vacuum removes the water and dirt and prevents spilling of water.

Abstract: A device for suctioning up and removing a contaminated liquid, especially dirty water, with a vacuumized tank having at the top at least one vacuum connection that communicates with a suction fan and a suction connection that communicates with a supply hose and at the bottom at least one outlet that can be closed off to prevent air from entering from outside. An outlet mechanism downstream of the outlet and controlled by the pressure of the air in the vacuumized tank keeps the liquid flowing out through the outlet even when there is a vacuum in the vacuumized tank at least for a prescribed length of time, during which it ensures that the outlet pressure represented by the sum of the liquid's hydrostatic pressure and the pressure of the air in the vacuumized tank is as high or higher than the counteracting air pressure downstream of the outlet.

Abstract: A process and device for removing a sprayed asbestos layer are provided, in which the asbestos is simultaneously cut and suctioned by a scraper and a suction air duct, and then transported into a carrier container for collection through primary, secondary and tertiary collection steps, in order to maintain a safe and sanitary operational environment for those who are engaged in removing the asbestos layer.

Abstract: An ACM removal assembly is disclosed, including: a nozzle for directing a pressurized fluid against ACM for dislodging the ACM; a fluid supply reservoir connected to the nozzle; a housing which supports the nozzle and capturingly receives spent fluid and dislodged ACM; and a material handing and separating system which includes coarse separating apparatus for coarsely separating the spent fluid from the dislodged ACM and fluid return conduit for returning coarsely separated fluid to the fluid supply reservoir.

Abstract: A vacuum hose/fluid line combination is provided for use with a vacuum cleaning system which includes a vacuum canister and heated fluid dispensing apparatus. The vacuum hose is devised with identical swivel cuffs at the ends thereof, each being formed with an opening in the cylindrical wall thereof and arranged to rotatably receive a flexible fluid dispensing line rotatably therethrough. The fluid line is retained within the hose and has its respective ends projecting outwardly through the openings for connection at one end to a hand tool, and at the other end to the fluid dispensing apparatus. Once connected, the vacuum hose is freely rotatable between the connection points.

Abstract: A cleaning system utilizes heat from an internal combustion engine to heat cleaning liquid which is sprayed onto a surface to be cleaned. The internal combustion engine drives a vacuum pump which withdraws air and cleaning liquid through a vacuum nozzle for retrieving cleaning liquid and soil. The heated air leaving a vacuum pump is combined with heated exhaust gasses from said engine and heat from the mixture is extracted to heat the cleaning liquid. The cleaning liquid may be further heated by heat extracted from the engine by a cooling system.

Abstract: There is disclosed herein a cart for computer cleaning. The cart includes a wheeled housing which defines a housing and a work surface at the top end of the frame. The housing includes a rear compartment in which a compressed gas unit, a retractable hose reel, a vacuum, and a retractable power cord are mounted. In addition, the housing includes an openable front compartment in which various tools are carried at convenient locations. The top of the cart carries a foldable work surface which may be folded to an open position wherein the computer components can be laid on the work surface. The frame defines a bottom well within which the hose reel may be partially positioned so as to lower the center of gravity and afford the cart with enhanced stability and reduce tipping susceptibility.

Abstract: An in-situ method is disclosed for removing contaminants from surface and near-surface soil by imposing a vacuum on the soil beneath a impermeable flexible sheet and then heating the soil with an electric surface heater that is positioned on the soil surface under the sheet. The heater is permeable to vapors which emanate from the soil when heated. A permeable mat, which may also be a good thermal insulator, separates the heater from the impermeable sheet and provides a conduit for flow of vapors to openings in the sheet. The openings, in turn, are connected to a vacuum manifold for collection of the vapors. A vacuum pump evacuates the region under the impermeable sheet such that the sheet, mat, and heater are pressed firmly against the soil surface by atomospheric pressure. The soil contaminants are removed by vaporization, steam distillation, and/or thermal decomposition.