Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved squeegee assembly. Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to a uniquely shaped squeegee configuration that has been found to remove liquids from a floor in an efficient manner. One particular embodiment utilizes a W-shaped squeegee. Other embodiments are directed to a squeegee fixation device. Yet other embodiments are directed toward a squeegee orientation device. Some embodiments are also directed toward a lifting mechanism and the connection between the squeegee assembly and the lifting mechanism.

Abstract: A scraping vacuum device for removing latex covering that includes: a scraping blade at a first end of the vacuum device, where said scraping blade includes a scraping edge and an inside edge; a handle at a second end of the vacuum device; a residue tank within said handle; a vacuum motor positioned at the inside edge of the metal blade, where said motor generates a vacuum; a hose, where said hose leads out to an opening near the edge of the blade, and said vacuum suctions residue accumulated by use of the scraping blade through the opening into the hose, said hose leads into the tank; a connection mechanism, where said connection mechanism connects the handle to the hose; and a power supply for providing power to the vacuum motor.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bare floor cleaner capable of wet pickup through a first nozzle opening with the aid of a squeegee, wet scrubbing with an agitator, and dry pickup through a second nozzle opening. The bare floor cleaner comprises a dual-path nozzle assembly having a wet suction path in communication with the first nozzle opening and a dry suction path in communication with the second nozzle opening. A diverter valve selectively controls fluid communication between a suction source and one of the first and second nozzle openings for conversion between wet and dry modes. The bare floor cleaner further comprises a single actuator that controls the positions of the agitator and of the diverter valve. As a result, the cleaning mode of the bare floor cleaner can be controlled with a single switch that is preferably located on the handle assembly for convenient access by a user.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner accessory tool configured for use with a vacuum cleaner. The accessory tool includes a nozzle body that defines a chamber. The accessory tool further includes a first resilient flexible blade that extends from the nozzle body, a second resilient flexible blade that extends from the nozzle body, and a third resilient flexible blade that extends from the nozzle body. A first elongated inlet aperture extends through the nozzle body directly between the first blade and the second blade and the first inlet aperture allows air to pass therethrough and into the chamber. A second elongated inlet aperture extends through the nozzle body directly between the second blade and the third blade and the second inlet aperture allows air to pass therethrough and into the chamber.

Abstract: A spray extraction nozzle for taking in liquids which have been applied to a surface includes a suction duct which ends in a suction mouth, and a spray nozzle, as well as an adapter for working on surfaces which have different properties. The adapter is connected to the spray extraction nozzle through a pivot axis, and the adapter can be pivoted from a position of rest which is remote from the suction mouth to a position of operation in front of the suction mouth of the spray extraction nozzle.

Abstract: A snap-together wet nozzle for use with a vacuum assembly is described, as well as a removable squeegee assembly for use in combination with a wet nozzle for a vacuum assembly. The snap-together wet nozzle includes an elongated, generally U-shaped nozzle housing having outwardly tapering walls, spaced apart closed ends, and a connecting tube passageway for association with a vacuum-producing means, such as a wet/dry vacuum, and further includes a squeegee assembly capable of being insertably mounted within the elongated, generally U-shaped nozzle housing.

Abstract: A vacuum assisted scraper draws air from both in front of and behind the scraper blade to collect dust and debris as the scraper is used. The scraper keeps the work area clean and prevents dust buildup from hindering the use of the scraper.

Abstract: An acoustic ceiling removal tool and associated method are provided wherein an elongated tubular handle defines a longitudinal cavity, and a scraping head is connected to a distal end of the handle. The scraping head has a manifold with a proximal end in fluid communication with the longitudinal cavity and an opposing open end defining a comparatively larger cross sectional area than the proximal end, a scraper blade supported by the manifold to dispose an operative scraping edge of the scraper blade adjacent the open end of the manifold, and an elastomeric boot sealingly engaging the proximal end of the manifold and extending therefrom to circumscribe the open end of the manifold.

Abstract: The apparatus comprises a vacuum tank with a front-mounted collection means thereunder The collection means is a V-shaped scraper with a height adjustable suction inlet at the apex thereof. The collection means has a pair of laterally adjustable pivoting wings for varying its width to correspond to that of an alley or gutter. The suction inlet may be equipped with a snorkel to introduce a small quantity of air as an aid in entraining thick-consistency materials. A blower vac is used to both draw air into and blow air through the vacuum tank. A valve means comprising a pair of oppositely oriented check valves is used to alternate flow paths between a lowered rearward exhaust during collection and an elevated intake during tank discharge.

Abstract: Apparatus for and method of cleaning or extracting liquid from carpet coupled to a truck mounted or portable carpet cleaning machine. The apparatus includes an elongated non-fixed handle that is attached to a vacuum head with two inlet ports parallel to one another. A solution manifold is attached parallel between the two ports. A plurality of spray jets derive from the spray manifold. A wheel assembly is mounted for stability of the vacuum head and are adjustable.

Abstract: A floor washing-drying machine includes a brush (2) adapted to scrub a floor (4) with a cleaning liquid in view of removing soil and dirt therefrom, and a wiping device (3) adapted to scrape the floor (4) in order to remove the dirty cleaning liquid therefrom. The wiping device (3) includes a front flap (5) and a rear flap (6) adapted to elastically and slidably engage the floor (4) so as to define a suction chamber (7) therebetween, with the suction chamber being fluidly connected with a suction device (8). A further elastic flap (10) is mounted to the wiping device behind the rear flap, and the width of the further flap is smaller than the width of the front and rear flaps (5, 6).

Abstract: A snap-together wet nozzle for use with a vacuum assembly is described, as well as a removable squeegee assembly for use in combination with a wet nozzle for a vacuum assembly. The snap-together wet nozzle includes an elongated, generally U-shaped nozzle housing having outwardly tapering walls, spaced apart closed ends, and a connecting tube passageway for association with a vacuum-producing means, such as a wet/dry vacuum, and further includes a squeegee assembly capable of being insertably mounted within the elongated, generally U-shaped nozzle housing.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating an exposed surface. The apparatus has an elongate support with a proximal region and a distal region. The proximal region is engagable by a user to controllably reposition the elongate support and thereby situate the distal region at an exposed surface to be treated. At least one elongate element is provided at the distal region of the elongate support. The at least one elongate element is moveable at the distal region to repeatedly contact an exposed surface at which the elongate element is situated to thereby separate matter from an exposed surface at which the elongate element is situated.

Abstract: A snap-together wet nozzle for use with a vacuum assembly is described, as well as a removable squeegee assembly for use in combination with a wet nozzle for a vacuum assembly. The snap-together wet nozzle includes an elongated, generally U-shaped nozzle housing having outwardly tapering walls, spaced apart closed ends, and a connecting tube passageway for association with a vacuum-producing means, such as a wet/dry vacuum, and further includes a squeegee assembly capable of being insertably mounted within the elongated, generally U-shaped nozzle housing.

Abstract: A steam mop having a main body including a water pump and a boiler. Generation of steam is provided when the water pump is actuated by angular movement of the mop handle which changes the angle between the handle and mop head for operating a two way piston pump to pump water to the boiler. Steam is fed to a steam pad that may have a replaceable fabric pad fit snugly on the frame to distribute cleaning steam to the surface to be cleaned.

Abstract: A vacuum assisted scraper draws air from both in front of and behind the scraper blade to collect dust and debris as the scraper is used. The scraper keeps the work area clean and prevents dust buildup from hindering the use of the scraper.

Abstract: Floor surface scrubbing and resurfacing equipment including a hydraulic system and adjustable linkages to allow a user to adjust particular features to suit the equipment for different applications.

Abstract: A vacuum assisted scraper draws air from both in front of and behind the scraper blade to collect dust and debris as the scraper is used. The scraper keeps the work area clean and prevents dust buildup from hindering the use of the scraper.

Abstract: In combination, a removable tool may be selectively attached to the cleaning wand of a carpet extractor to alternatively clean hard surfaced floors, such as grouted tile and when not attached, clean carpeted floors. The removable tool may be sold as an aftermarket item for existing carpet extractors. A method of using the carpet extractor with the removable tool allows the apparatus to fulfill dual purposes, e.g., cleaning hard surfaced floors and when the tool is attached to the cleaning wand, and when the tool is removed from the wand to clean carpeted floors.

Abstract: A system and method of use solves problems associated with air component freeze-up on compressors during winter months. The apparatus includes a length of tubing having an inlet end and an outlet end, a fastener for coupling the tubing to the muffler such that the inlet end is in alignment with the exhaust port of the gas engine associated with the compressor, and a fastener for maintaining the outlet end directed to the air valves or other sections of the compressor to keep them warm and to prevent them from freezing. In a preferred embodiment, brackets are used at the inlet end to accommodate different types of mufflers, and at least a part of the tubing is made up of flexible material, also to accommodate different styles of compressor units. A hook or wire is provided at the outlet end to conveniently direct the hot exhaust gases to the regulator valve or other sections of the compressor that might require heat to keep from freezing up.

Abstract: A suction nozzle and a head of a cleaner having the same includes a suction hole to which a suction force is applied; an air channel formed as a closed region having predetermined area and depth and having the suction hole therein; and scraper longer than an end of an edge of the air channel, positioned in the air channel, and for scraping carpet fibers in cleaning a carpet. Especially when cleaning a carpet, the suction nozzle and the head of a cleaner having the same sufficiently push back carpet fibers to their root portions by the scraper to suck dust and alien substances, so that the carpet can be cleaned more cleanly, a suction path through which external air is introduced is formed in a direction that a cleaning proceeds, and thus dust or alien substances can be effectively removed.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for cleaning or otherwise treating a floored surface that includes a platform adapted to support the weight of an operator. In addition, one embodiment of the present invention is capable of generally performing 360° turns to facilitate the treatment of difficult to access portions of the floored surface.

Abstract: A squeegee assembly (10, 10?) includes a flexible wiper blade (30) sandwiched between a mounting bracket (32, 32?) and a retaining strap (34, 34?). A retainer (94) has a head (98) which is positionable between aligned and misaligned positions with mounting apertures (82, 92) to allow disassembly, assembly and retention of the squeegee assembly (10, 10?). Arcuate portions (36, 36?, 66, 66?) formed in the mounting bracket (32, 32?) and the retaining straps (34, 34?) have different radiuses. Linear portions (68, 68?, 70, 70?) of the retaining straps (34, 34?) have upper and lower edges (72, 74) bent from center portions thereof. The mounting brackets (32, 32?) include L-shaped slots (46) for slideably receiving vertical bolts (56) of the floor maintenance machine (12).

Abstract: A suction nozzle for use in a vacuum cleaner, which can clean a surface to be cleaned having a corner portion where a horizontal surface and a vertical surface meet, such as a staircase, is disclosed. The suction nozzle includes a nozzle body having an air inlet formed in a bottom surface thereof to draw in air, and a brush unit having a liftable brush liftably and lowerably disposed in the nozzle body in front of the air inlet and coming in surface contact with a surface to be cleaned to brush away dirt or dust therefrom.

Abstract: A floor cleaning machine comprising a chassis which can travel over the floor along a travel direction and supports, on its side directed toward the floor, elements for cleaning the floor and, to the rear with respect to the floor cleaning elements along the travel direction of the chassis, a floor wiper which can move, with respect to the chassis, along a path which is substantially transverse to the travel direction of the chassis; the chassis is provided with steering elements which can be operated to change its travel direction; the machine further comprises actuation elements which act on the floor wiper to move the floor wiper along the path following an intervention performed on the steering elements to change the travel direction of the chassis.

Abstract: A chalk-dust collecting apparatus for blackboard erasers has a housing that contains a dust-collecting bag, a filter and a vacuum suction device. The housing is affixed with an upper lid on the top thereof. The dust-collecting bag is with its top end attached by a lid. The lid is received by the outer shoulder portion of the intermediate cover and comprises a plurality of lower air inlet slits. Further, the upper lid has a plurality of upper air inlet slits arranged correspondingly to the lower air inlet slits in the manner that each said upper air inlet slit is intercommunicated with a respective said lower air inlet slit. Thereby, chalk dust at the upper air inlet slits can be directly sucked into the bag through the lower air inlet slits and prevented from diffusing between the dust-collecting bag and upper lid. Thereby cleanness of the apparatus can be achieved.

Abstract: A vacuum truck includes a self-propelled vehicle, a storage tank, a vacuum source, a laterally-shiftable scraper, and a pullback scraper. Suction lines connect a collection area of the scrapers to the storage tank and to the vacuum source. The exhaust from the vacuum system heats the collection area and the suction line to prevent plugging by the cold vacuumed material. The vehicle's engine exhaust can also be controlled to serve as a second heat source that can be used. A fluffer comprises a rake pivoted to the scraper is extendable for fluffing bedding while performing the vacuuming operation. The truck includes a front discharge opening and auger for emptying the tank. The driver's cabin is in front and has high and low windows, such that all vehicle operations are easily seen.

Abstract: A vacuum assisted scraper draws air from both in front of and behind the scraper blade to collect dust and debris as the scraper is used. The scraper keeps the work area clean and prevents dust buildup from hindering the use of the scraper.

Abstract: A floor-cleaning machine (10) has a chassis (12) that is mobile on a surface and carries an agitating mechanism (14) to engage the surface. A fluid delivery system (18) conveys fluid from a reservoir (16) to the surface proximate the agitating mechanism (14). The fluid delivery system (18) includes a flow control valve (20) having a body (24) and a flow control member in the form of a ball (22) constrained within the body (24) and rotatable about an axis. A first passage (30) and a second passage (32) are defined in the ball (22), with the second passage (32) having a cross sectional area smaller than a cross sectional area of the first passage (30). The ball (22) is pivotable between a high flow position and a low flow position. In the high flow position, the ball (22) is positioned to allow fluid flow from a upstream duct (26) to a downstream duct (28) through the first passage (30).

Abstract: According to certain embodiments of the invention, a pressure washing system delivers a cleaning fluid under pressure to a surface to be cleaned, and includes a fluid pump unit for supplying the fluid to the surface. A fluid collector captures wastewater runoff of the cleaning fluid on the surface to be cleaned. The vacuum pump unit withdraws the captured waste fluid from the fluid collector.

Abstract: A cleaning apparatus having a cleaning system including at least one downwardly directed spray nozzle is supported by the chassis proximal the chassis forward end and in fluid communication with at least one cleaning solution tank. The at least one spray nozzle sprays cleaning solution from the tank onto the floor. At least one ground engaging agitation brush is disposed rearwardly of the at least one spray nozzle for agitating the cleaning solution sprayed onto the floor. At least one vacuum shoe is supported by the chassis rearwardly of the at least one agitation brush, and in fluid communication with the at least one recovery tank. Cleaning solution drawn into the vacuum shoe is deposited into the at least one recovery tank. In one embodiment, the apparatus is drivable. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a second cleaning system including a vacuum squeegee.

Abstract: An vacuum cleaning robot has a drive system adapted to autonomously move a base housing along a horizontal surface and is controlled by a computer processing unit. A dusting assembly is mounted to the base housing and is adapted to selectively rest on a surface to be cleaned. A suction source draws dirt and debris through a suction nozzle and deposits the same in the recovery tank. A power source is connected to the drive system and to the computer processing unit. The computer processing unit is adapted to direct horizontal movement of the base housing within boundaries of the surface to be cleaned based upon input data defining said boundaries.

Abstract: An improved vacuum cleaner nozzle is disclosed which includes a squeegee element disposed along the front wall or front lip. The squeegee element acts to push liquid or slurry materials towards the inlet opening as the nozzle head is drawn towards the user in a pulling or retraction motion. The squeegee elements are preferably integrally molded with the nozzle head structure. In different variations, the squeegee elements comprise either a downwardly extending forward lip or a forwardly extending lip.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner base plate assembly is provided according to an embodiment of the invention. The base plate assembly includes a base plate adapted to fit to a chassis bottom of a vacuum cleaner. The base plate includes one or more nozzle apertures. The base plate assembly further includes one or more trapped components configured to rest against the base plate. The base plate assembly further includes a skid plate that fits to the base plate and that holds the one or more trapped components against the base plate when the skid plate is assembled to the base plate. The base plate assembly further includes one or more fasteners that removably affix the skid plate to the base plate. The skid plate and the one or more trapped components are removably affixed to the base plate by the skid plate and the one or more fasteners.

Abstract: A rotary cleaning head that may have a main disc, a cover, and vacuum heads. The cover may define an axially aligned central vacuum opening; and the main disc and cover may define therebetween a vacuum distribution hub and vacuum channels for distributing vacuum from the cover's central vacuum opening to the vacuum slots in the vacuum heads. A dual purpose seal may provide a seal between the cover and the main disc, and may also define at least part of the vacuum hub and vacuum channels. The vacuum heads may have vacuum notches or ridges that may help to collect and direct the cleaning fluid on at least part of the vacuum heads' outer surfaces into vacuum heads' vacuum slots. The rotary cleaning head may be modified to clean either hard surfaces or soft surfaces.

Abstract: A rear squeegee linkage for surface cleaning equipment, which uses a pair of compliant bushings for improved shock absorption. The actuator is mounted with a pair of clevis pins and cotter pins, and may be replaced if needed without screwing or unscrewing any bolts or screws, or resetting any springs.

Abstract: A low-profile side squeegee assembly for surface maintenance vehicles, capable of cleaning under so-called “toe kicks”. In contrast with typical suspensions that are mounted directly above the center of the squeegee assembly, and are therefore too tall to fit under toe kicks, a low-profile suspension attaches at the ends of a squeegee assembly, and uses torsion springs to provide a downward force on the squeegee assembly. In order to counteract any potential twisting effects that might result from suspending the squeegee from the ends rather than the center, the squeegee assembly is mounted at an angle.

Abstract: A cleaning implement for cleaning a soiled surface having soiling particles lodge therein includes a body having a cleaning surface defining first and second cleaning section. The first and second cleaning sections are provided respectively with first and second dislodging bristles for dislodging the soiled particles from the soiled surface. The first and second cleaning bristles are configured and positioned so that the dislodging action is performed more efficiently when the first and second cleaning section are move relative to the soiled surface respectively in a first and a second direction as opposed to other directions. The implement is connectable to a vacuum source for suctioning the soiling particles having been dislodged by the first and second cleaning surfaces.

Abstract: A squeegee assembly (60) includes first and second protrusions (314) interconnected to a support (172) to which front and rear flexible blades (170a, 170b) are mounted. In preferred aspects, squeegee assembly (60) is of a curved design such that the flexible blades (170a, 170b) are spaced at the center of the support (172) where a suction tube (174) is provided and taper towards each other so that their ends are closely adjacent each other. The first and second protrusions (314) define upper and lower channel portions (324, 326) between the flexible blades (170a, 170b) so that appreciable reduction in the speed of air flow towards the suction tube (174) does not occur, which reduction may result in dropping of carried moisture.

Abstract: A floor cleaner is provided for cleaning a floor, where the floor cleaner has a front and a rear and includes: a sweeper for sweeping the floor; a scrubber, connected to the sweeper and located in the rear of the sweeper, for wetting and cleaning the floor; and a burnisher, connected to the scrubber and located in the rear of the scrubber, for burnishing the floor.

Abstract: A floor cleaning machine is provided with at least two movable squeegees to provide coverage of the liquid applied to the floor in a path with the squeegees extending beyond the outer perimeter sides of the liquid path both during straight ahead movement and during turning maneuvers. The squeegee assemblies are carried by a chassis. A floor scrubbing device is provided to apply liquid to the floor and to mix dirt on the floor with the applied liquid. A liquid pickup device is also provided to remove the applied liquid from the floor at a position adjacent to each of the squeegee assemblies.

Abstract: A glass surface cleaning machine includes a supporting frame which has a fluid receiving chamber provided therein and includes a supporting arm frontwardly extended therefrom, a wiper blade transversely mounted on a front edge of the supporting arm of the supporting frame for wiping on a glass surface, and a vacuum device supported by the supporting frame. The vacuum device includes at least a fluid suction nozzle supported underneath the wiper blade and in communication with the fluid receiving chamber and an impeller to create a low pressure within the fluid receiving chamber with respect to the atmosphere pressure so as to create a sucking effect for removing fluid from the glass surface through the fluid suction nozzle and directing the fluid to deposit in the fluid receiving chamber.

Abstract: A compact machine for cleaning floors includes (1) a solution tank and dispensing means for dispensing solution onto the surface to be cleaned, (2) a hose and squeegee assembly for picking up dirty solution, (3) a recovery tank far receiving the dirty solution from said hose, and (4) a vacuum motor communicating with said hose.

Abstract: A floor tool for use in vacuum cleaning floor surfaces includes a sole plate that has a suction channel formed in it. The suction channel is bounded on at least one side by a working edge for engaging with the floor surface. Lint pickers are positioned alongside the suction channel and are separated from the suction channel by the working edge. The lint pickers are mounted on a surface of the floor tool which is inclined with respect to the plane in which the working edges lie. The sole plate is pivotally mounted with respect to a suction outlet so that movement of the floor tool in a forward and backwards direction alternately brings one of the working edges into closer contact with the floor surface.

Abstract: A squeegee mount and assembly which cooperate to permit both pivotal and linear motion of the squeegee assembly relative to the machine frame. To avoid contact with a stationary object, the squeegee assembly can be both pivoted and linearly moved relative to the surface maintenance machine, thereby preventing damage to the squeegee assembly and/or the surface maintenance machine. The squeegee mounting assembly includes a mounting arm, a subframe, a return spring coupled between the subframe and the frame, and a stop. A squeegee assembly comprised of a squeegee blade, an arcuate squeegee blade holder, and a link which couples the blade holder to the squeegee mounting assembly. A guard rail is also coupled to one end of the blade holder and rotatively coupled along another end to the frame.

Abstract: A clog reduction structure for a squeegee assembly for removing solution from a floor surface with a surface maintenance vehicle. The clog reduction structure includes an inlet in fluid communication with a vacuum chamber, an outlet in fluid communication with a vacuum conduit, and a configured surface between said inlet and said outlet, wherein said inlet has a substantially larger cross sectional area than said outlet. The clog reduction structure may include a variety of shapes or transitions between the inlet and outlet of the squeegee assembly. Efficient passage of larger debris from the vacuum chamber into a vacuum conduit is provided by the clog reduction structure.

Abstract: A device with a squeegee configuration and an absorbent material positioned between protruding squeegee walls for treating a working surface with wiping edges of the squeegee configuration and the absorbent material is disclosed. A device, in accordance with the invention, comprises a curved squeegee and means for coupling the curved squeegee to a spray nozzle for wiping the working surface with edges of the curved squeegee and spray the working surface with the spray nozzle. A system, in accordance with the invention, comprises a vacuum source, a liquid source and an applicator head with squeegees and apertures wherein a portion the apertures are configured to couple the vacuum source and draw a vacuum on a working surface and a second portion of the apertures are configured to couple to the liquid source and deliver a liquid to the working surface.

Abstract: A device with a squeegee configuration configured to clean or treat surfaces submersed in liquid is described. The squeegee configuration is preferably contoured to wipe contoured surfaces or flexible such as to conform to a variety of contoured surfaces. The squeegee configuration can be configured with bristles, a sponge or scouring elements. In further embodiments of the invention, the squeegee configuration is configured to draw a vacuum while wiping the surfaces.

Abstract: A floor cleaning device comprises a base portion for movement along a surface and a handle portion pivotally connected to the base. The base portion further includes a suction nozzle and a brush assembly for agitating the surface, wherein the brush assembly and the nozzle assembly are in a first position raised off of the surface for vacuuming the surface, and the nozzle assembly is lowered to a second position contacting the surface for collecting and picking up liquid and dirt from the surface. A method of cleaning a surface by first dry vacuuming the surface using a cleaning unit in which the nozzle assembly is raised to pick up particles and then wet vacuuming the floor with the nozzle assembly lowered to collect and pick up dirt from the floor mixed with cleaning solution distributed on the floor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning exterior surfaces, particularly aircraft exteriors, which method and apparatus applies cleaning solution to a soiled surface, scours the surface, squeegees the contaminated solution from the surface and evacuates it through a vacuum manifold for collection and environmentally appropriate disposal. Applicant's method and apparatus are designed principally to alleviate the problem of toxic run-off and ground water pollution as attends present-day wash-rack or bucket and brush type washing operations. Applicant's method and apparatus are also beneficial from a convenience standpoint, as an aircraft may be cleaned in any location without the necessity of removing the aircraft to a maintenance facility. Applicant's method and apparatus are also useful for other exterior surfaces, such as for cleaning skyscraper surfaces.