Floor And Wall Cleaner Patents (Class 15/49.1)
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Patent number: 7293323Abstract: A manual operated and battery powered device is provided for complete removal of liquid spills by use of both vacuum and blow-drying. The device provides a wheeled cart including a liquid-tight pan on which are retained one or move waste liquid receivers. An electric motor powered blower within an enclosure provides both suction and blown air through attached flexible hoses. In operation, the blower creates a vacuum in the receiver which, through the flexible hoses, is used to suction waste material from a working surface. The waste material is captured in the receiver. The device is small to reduce interference with surrounding activities. The design enables cordless operation with convenient recharging from standard electrical power sources during non-operational periods.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2003Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Inventor: John Hoce
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Patent number: 7254859Abstract: A self-propelled floor cleaner is provided having a random motion generator which enhances the maneuverability of the floor cleaner. The random motion generator is rotatably attached to the frame of the cleaner and propels the cleaner across the floor in a random motion. This random motion facilitates cleaning of the floor by making the cleaner easier to manipulate. The random motion generator includes a hollow spherical shell. In the preferred embodiment, the hollow spherical shell houses a weighted motor assembly which is rotatably mounted on a center fixed axle which extends diametrically between the first and second hemispherical halves and is attached thereto. The weighted motor assembly is comprised of a motor housing and a power source, such as batteries or cells. A motor is housed within the motor housing and rotates the motor housing about the center fixed axle.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2003Date of Patent: August 14, 2007Assignee: The Hoover CompanyInventors: Douglas E. Gerber, Kevin L. Thomas
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Patent number: 7210185Abstract: A vibratory cleaning/polishing head secured to manually operated handle includes a detachable cleaning/polishing pad secured to the head, and a rechargeable battery and vibratory unit including a motor. In one embodiment, the vibratory unit and battery are substantially contained within the head housing. In another embodiment the vibratory unit and battery are situated atop of the housing. The motor contains a driveshaft to which an eccentric element is secured. The driveshaft extends substantially parallel to the horizontal upper surface of the head, wherein vibration of the head in a vertical plane is induced for enhancing efficacy of cleaning/polishing. In one embodiment, the device has two vibratory units secured to the head, each spaced from the other on laterally opposed sides of attachment yoke. The units operate in the 2,500 to 8,000 RPM range.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2003Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventor: Edward L. Paas
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Patent number: 7207081Abstract: A self-propelled floor cleaner is provided having a random motion generator which enhances the maneuverability of the floor cleaner. The random motion generator is rotatably attached to the frame of the cleaner and propels the cleaner across the floor in a random motion. This random motion facilitates cleaning of the floor by making the cleaner easier to manipulate. The random motion generator includes a hollow spherical shell. In the preferred embodiment, the hollow spherical shell houses a weighted motor assembly which is rotatably mounted on a center fixed axle which extends diametrically between the first and second hemispherical halves and is attached thereto. The weighted motor assembly is comprised of a motor housing and a power source, such as batteries or cells. A motor is housed within the motor housing and rotates the motor housing about the center fixed axle.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2005Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: The Hoover CompanyInventors: Douglas E. Gerber, Kevin L. Thomas
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Patent number: 7203986Abstract: A cleaning tool having a clamp-on handle assembly. The clamp-on handle assembly includes a slidable locking element which can be moved from an open position, wherein the handle assembly can be placed over a handle portion of the cleaning tool, to a locked position wherein the locking element clamps the handle assembly securely onto the handle portion of the cleaning tool. Advantageously, no external tools or fastening implements are required to secure the handle assembly to the handle portion of the cleaning tool. The handling assembly allows the user to use the cleaning tool to reach elevated areas or other areas that would be difficult to reach with the user holding directly onto the handle portion of the cleaning tool.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2003Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Barry Pears, Cheung Wun Yau
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Patent number: 7200888Abstract: The splash guard comprises an apron defining a horseshoe shape having an open rear end along a vertical plane. A rectangular frame encloses the open rear end. The rectangular frame has a centre of gravity rearward of the vertical plane, to keep the rear end of the apron taut. The rectangular frame also has adjustment clamps to allow the adjustment of the width thereof to different floor-scrubbing machines. In another aspect, the apron has a double thickness along each end of the horseshoe shape, to prevent buckling of the apron near the open rear end thereof.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2005Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventor: Terry R. Nieson
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Patent number: 7155768Abstract: An electric-motored floor-surface polisher includes a pair of pads juxtaposed in the front and rear or lateral direction of an apparatus frame, each pad being slidably supported to the apparatus frame. A drive pulley coupled to an output shaft of an electric motor to be rotated therewith.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Penguin Wax Co., Ltd.Inventors: Isao Morita, Yasuhiro Ueda
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Patent number: 7131162Abstract: In a wheel supported floor and carpet push brush of the type having an array of aggressive bristles and another array of bristles which are of lesser diameter than the aggressive bristles carried on the dowel so that the brush can be turned over to bring a selected one of the arrays into operative sweeping position, the improvement wherein the average diameter of the aggressive bristles is no greater than about 0.012 inches with a preferred diameter being about 0.010 inches, and the other array of bristles have an average maximum diameter less than 0.010 inches with a preferred diameter being about 0.008 inches.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2004Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: The Scott Fetzer CompanyInventor: Thomas R. Anderson
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Patent number: 7114214Abstract: A brush that simultaneously cleans and/or polishes floors and baseboards. The brush is adapted to be utilized with conventional buffing machines and will easily fit conventional water control rings. In its cleaning mode, the brush incorporates bristles on its planar undersurface and also entirely around its peripheral wall. When employed to polish, a polishing pad is positioned beneath the undersurface of the brush as is conventional in the art. A unique polishing pad is secured around the peripheral wall of the brush for contacting and polishing the baseboards.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2004Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Inventor: Anthony A. Lavender
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Patent number: 7082639Abstract: The present invention provides an improved mechanical coupling for rapidly adjusting the elevation of a working edge portion of a tool which working edge portion is subject to wear that decreases the effective length of the working edge portion. In one embodiment, the bristles of a drum-type brush comprise the working edge portion. Once the working edge is properly adjusted with respect to a work surface, the amount of downforce imparted by the working edge and the pattern of the working edge on a work surface are maximized. In use an operator compares the length of the working edge to a first indicia set displayed adjacent the working edge and adjusts the elevation of the working edge with reference to a second indicia set which corresponds to the first indicia set. Surface maintenance vehicles which support an adjustable height tool with a working edge that wears down may utilize the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2002Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: Tennant CompanyInventor: Karl R. Hansen
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Patent number: 7076825Abstract: A floor machine for cleaning floors with a rotary brush or buffer includes (1) a base assembly having a motor and skirt with no frame and (2) a handle and frame assembly. The frame/handle assembly can readily be attached to the base assembly by a simple engagement of the frame to a support mounted on the housing of the motor. This permits (1) the handle and frame assembly to be packaged in a shipping carton which need only be tall enough to accommodate the wheel diameter of the handle/frame assembly and (2) the base assembly of motor and skirt to be packaged in a second carton having a size which need only accommodate such base/motor and skirt assembly with no significant wasted space.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2002Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: NSS Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Jeffery R. Fellhauer
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Patent number: 7059004Abstract: A floor surface treatment apparatus having a wheeled vehicle including a support for a floor surface treatment unit, the support being moveable relative to the vehicle. A floor surface treatment unit is pivotally carried by the support for swinging movement relative thereto. The support is configured to raise and lower the unit relative to the floor surface, upon movement of the support relative to the vehicle, through a range of working positions in which the unit maintains a generally vertical orientation relative to the floor surface and is generally in contact therewith and a servicing position in which the unit is swung up relative to the vehicle above the floor surface to a position in which the unit is generally angled relative to the floor surface.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2002Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: Alto U.S. Inc.Inventors: Kevin Mitchell, John L. Obenshain
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Patent number: 7059015Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2003Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: Tennant CompanyInventors: Anthony John Hamline, Robert Allan Geyer, Richard Allen Nelson, Terence Alan Peterson
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Patent number: 7055201Abstract: The invention relates to a surface treating machine which comprises a frame (1) and an undercarriage (2, 3) to enable the machine to move over a surface (S). A head (5) is supported by the frame and includes a drive motor (13) and a tool (6) for directly contacting, scrubbing or treating said surface (S). The tool is rotatably drivable by means of the motor. Cardanic drive and coupling means (16) is connected to the tool (6) in a rotationally fixed manner on one end and connected to the drive motor (13) on the other end. Support and spring means (8, 9, 17) for the tool (6), are forcing the tool (6) against the surface (S) with an controlled uneven pressure distribution around the circumference of the tool (6).Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2002Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.Inventors: Max Buchegger, Rene Principe, Dieter Windmeisser
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Patent number: 7038416Abstract: A control system for controlling the work output delivered to a floor surface by a work tool associated with a floor maintenance machine, such as a burnisher, is provided. In one embodiment, a voltage regulator regulates the voltage provided to the motor assembly that drives the work tool. A current sensor monitors the motor current drawn by the motor assembly and provides a signal representative thereof to a controller. The controller also receives as an input a work selector signal representative of a desired level of work output. Based on the work selector signal and the sensed motor current, the controller provides a control signal to an actuator. In response to the control signal, the actuator raises or lowers the work tool relative to the floor as need to control the work output delivered to the floor.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2002Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: Tennant CompanyInventors: Robert J. Erko, John Peter Haeg
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Patent number: 7032682Abstract: An unmanned vehicle for displacing manure in a stable or field which comprises a steering unit for steering the vehicle and a frame. Two wheels and a manure displacing blade which depend from the frame provide the entire support for the vehicle, the vehicle's center of gravity being in an axis which falls between the wheels and the blade. A freely turnable circular bumper is also carried by the frame and prevents the vehicle from colliding with obstacles in the area wherein it operates. The vehicle also includes orientation and steering components as well as sensors for controlling the course of travel of the vehicle within the area and, such as the circular bumper, to prevent it from colliding with obstacles in the area.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2001Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Assignee: Lely Research Holding AGInventor: Karel van den Berg
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Patent number: 7020576Abstract: A control system for estimating the approximate relative position of an electric linear actuator on a surface maintenance machine. The control system includes device for selectively coupling the electric motor of the linear actuator to the electric power source, device for measuring or estimating the current and voltage of the electric motor, device for estimating the motor speed based on the measured values of current and voltage, and storage device for storing values of estimated motor speed and integrating device for determining approximate linear actuator position, wherein the integrating device integrates the motor speed over time to determine the approximate position of the linear actuator position.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2004Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Tennant CompanyInventors: Musibau O. Alowonle, Bruce Phillip Bushey, Robert J. Erko, Paul Leonard Groschen, Jr., Richard F. Milun
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Patent number: 7003841Abstract: The invention relates to a surface treating machine, comprising: a frame (1) and a chassis (2, 3) to enable the machine to move over a surface (S) such as a floor. A head (5) is supported by the frame and comprises means (6) for directly contacting, scrubbing or maintaining said surface. The head (5) is freely movable up and down with respect to the chassis (2, 3) and is loaded downwardly by a pressure to adapt to the level of the surface. At least a part of the pressure on the head (5) is derived from the weight of the machine itself. Preferably, the head (5) is connected to a first lever arm (8) of a two armed lever (7) A second arm (9) of the lever (7) is connected to the chassis (2, 3), whereas a pivoting point (10) of the lever (7) is fixed to the frame (1) of the machine. In this way, the pressure on the head is not only provided by the weight of the machine, but the head is also easily adapting to ramps and descents in the surfaces, while the pressure on the head is maintained.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2002Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.Inventor: Heinrich Mayer
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Patent number: 6979371Abstract: A detergent composition and/or solution for floors comprising a hydrophilic shear-thinning polymer at very low level for improved cleaning end result. The solution can be used with conventional implements known in the art, including sponges, cloths and/or sponge, string, and/or strip mops and floor cloths such as those sold at retail and speciality stores. In a most preferred embodiment, the solution is used with a cleaning pad comprising an effective amount of a superabsorbent material, said pad preferably being part of cleaning implement comprising a handle and said cleaning pad preferably being removable. The detergent composition preferably contains a limited amount of a detergent surfactant, preferably linear in structure and relatively hydrophilic, the level of solvent in the formula preferably being kept below about 5.0%, and the pH preferably being maintained above about 9.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 1998Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Nicola John Policicchio, Alan Edward Sherry
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Patent number: 6971141Abstract: A surface traveling mobile apparatus which moves by an endless track belt installed to be wrapped around a case from end to end, traveling on a surface by the rotation of wheels driven by a power source is provided. The surface traveling mobile apparatus includes vacuum chambers installed to be attached to the sides of the wheels, a vacuum tube for connecting the vacuum chambers to each other, a vacuum pump formed in part of the vacuum tube, the vacuum pump for inhaling and exhausting air, and suction mechanisms installed along the endless track belt at predetermined intervals, valve driven by contacting the wheels, and vacuum attached to the surface by the vacuum pump inhaling and exhausting air. Also, a cleaning apparatus including a spray unit for spraying water or wash liquid to the surface when the surface traveling mobile apparatus moves, and a rotating brush for washing the surface using the sprayed liquid, are provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2000Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Assignee: SHT Co., Ltd.Inventor: Seung-Ho Tak
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Patent number: 6971137Abstract: A burnishing machine having a burnishing motor in a motor compartment covered with a hood defining an air plenum having at least one air inlet positioned near the top of the hood spaced from the floor. The plenum includes a discharge outlet immediately adjacent the motor such that clean air is drawn through the air inlet, flows through the plenum to the discharge outlet for providing clean air to cool the burnishing motor.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2002Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Assignee: Tennant CompanyInventors: Paul M. Pierce, Steven J. Waldhauser
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Patent number: 6968589Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle mounted sweeping apparatus to be mounted on a variety of vehicles for sweeping the inside surfaces of vessels such as a barge, generally comprising a rectangular steel base plate positioned horizontally with two perpendicular rectangular side plates attached to each end of the base plate. All three plates are attached to a rectangular steel frame which further comprises a mounting plate for attachment to a vehicle. The horizontal base plate and vertical side plates comprise multiple sweeping elements arranged in parallel rows perpendicular to the direction of vehicle travel and removeably attached to the outside surfaces of the plates, for replacement when worn.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2002Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Assignee: Holcim (US) Inc.Inventor: Harold Stewart
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Patent number: 6954960Abstract: A self-propelled running apparatus for cleaning a surface immersed in a liquid, includes a tranverse running member having two ends through which it is mounted rotatable on a frame about a tranverse axis of rotation, a device for driving in rotation the member and a frame-mounted guide borne by the frame. The guide is adapted to enable, without dismantling relative to the frame the frame-mounted guide and without dismantling the frame itself, at least the displacement of the running member between a working position and a maintenance position.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2001Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Assignee: Zodiac Pool Care EuropeInventor: Philippe Pichon
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Patent number: 6938295Abstract: Orbital floor treatment device having a two-component flywheel which facilitates installation and reduces vibration.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2003Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignee: Aztec Products, Inc.Inventors: J. Clark Lancaster, Allan H. Beverly
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Patent number: 6904989Abstract: An improved drivable wagon is embodied as a processing or a cleaning device which is suitable in particular for independent driving by the provision of at least one sensor device. The device can be at least swung in unison with at least one steerable running wheel and/or a swingable floor processing or cleaning unit or head.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2000Date of Patent: June 14, 2005Assignee: Georg Hefter MaschinenbauInventor: Christian Hefter
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Patent number: 6896468Abstract: A battery powered floor maintenance machine is alignable with a battery docking station that can slidably receive a spent battery assembly from the floor maintenance machine. The floor maintenance machine includes locking and aligning mechanisms to safely attach the machine to the docking station. Once attached, the battery assembly is slid onto the docking station for recharge. The floor machine can be removed from the docking station and attached to a second charging station with a fully charged battery assembly thereon. The battery assembly can be slid from the second charging station to the floor maintenance machine, allowing the machine to be returned to service.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2003Date of Patent: May 24, 2005Assignee: Tennant CompanyInventors: Gregory P. Gallea, Laurence A. Jensen
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Patent number: 6871371Abstract: A floor care method and machine are disclosed, wherein a replaceable floor care element (e.g., a cleaning pad, a brush, a polishing pad, etc.) is easily attached to and detached from the rest of the machine. For attaching the floor care element, an operator positions the machine (minus any floor care element) over the such an element so that components on the machine and/or the floor care element cause the floor care element to operationally align with the rotatable drive of the machine so that rotation of the drive in the direction used during floor care operations causes the floor care element to securely attach to the drive. Alternatively, to detach the floor care element, the direction of rotation can be reversed. The machine can then be tilted upwardly onto its rear wheels and rolled to a location where the floor care element is not underneath the rest of the machine.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2002Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Castle Rock Industries, IncInventor: Michael Guest
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Patent number: 6848142Abstract: A manipulator assembly for attachment to a bucket of a construction vehicle is disclosed. The manipulator assembly includes a universal attachment apparatus for attaching a utility tool to the bucket. The universal attachment apparatus includes a housing adapted to support the utility tool, at least one mounting bracket connected to the housing, and at least one mounting arm having a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the mounting bracket. The mounting arms further include feet positioned adjacent the quick-release connector for allowing the utility tool to pivot relative to the bucket. A quick-release connector is mounted to the second end of the mounting arm for selectively securing the housing to the bucket. A biasing device is disposed on the quick-release connector for continuously urging the quick-release connector into engagement with the bucket.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2002Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: Trynex, Inc.Inventors: Charles J. Truan, James Truan, Panl Mandrick
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Publication number: 20040261204Abstract: A cleaning tool having a clamp-on handle assembly. The clamp-on handle assembly includes a slidable locking element which can be moved from an open position, wherein the handle assembly can be placed over a handle portion of the cleaning tool, to a locked position wherein the locking element clamps the handle assembly securely onto the handle portion of the cleaning tool. Advantageously, no external tools or fastening implements are required to secure the handle assembly to the handle portion of the cleaning tool. The handling assembly allows the user to use the cleaning tool to reach elevated areas or other areas that would be difficult to reach with the user holding directly onto the handle portion of the cleaning tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2003Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventors: Barry Pears, Cheung Wun Yau
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Publication number: 20040238004Abstract: A carpet cleaning machine for uniformly spreading a dry carpet cleaning powder onto a surface and working the dry carpet cleaning powder into the surface. The cleaning machine includes base having a hopper integrally formed therein, distribution slots on the bottom of the hopper, a rotary powder agitator inside the hopper, wheels for supporting the base over a floor surface and for rotating the powder agitator, a metering gate for controlling the dispensing of the dry carpet cleaning powder, a trigger located on the cleaner handle for controlling the metering gate, and a plurality of motor driven vertical axis rotary brushes for working the dry carpet cleaning powder into the carpet. The dry carpet cleaning powder is dispensed onto the carpet and allowed to sit for a short period of time to allow the dry carpet cleaning powder to absorb the dirt contained in the carpet.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Sergey V. Makarov, Kenneth H. Cooper, Mark A. Stransky, Donald A. Coates, Mark T. Smith, Adrian M. West, Patrick McDermott, John A. MacNeill, Jo Frances Wollschlaeger
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Publication number: 20040237230Abstract: A hand-operated sweeping machine having two circular brooms mounted in the front area, a motor drive which rotates the circular brooms, a drive mechanism which transfers a driving force derived from the forward motion of the sweeping machine to drive the circular brooms when the motor drive is not operating, and an interrupting mechanism which automatically interrupts a connection between the motor drive and the driving mechanism when the motor drive can rotate the circular brooms faster than the driving mechanism. When the motor drive of the sweeping machine is inoperative, as when there is no electricity available to operate an electric motor drive, the sweeping machine may be operated by the driving mechanism driving the circular brooms. The interrupting mechanism automatically prevents the motor drive when operating from transferring driving force to the driving mechanism and thereby undesirably driving forward motion of the sweeping machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Hermann Haaga
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Publication number: 20040237227Abstract: A battery holding frame is provided, in particular for an electrically driven sweeping machine, comprising one lower supporting face (4) for the battery (10), and lateral faces (5) to contain the same battery (10), which include a mobile lateral face (5a) rotatable between a first closed position across the first lower supporting face (4) and a second operating position substantially aligned with and adjacent to the lower supporting face (4) where sliding elements (7) are provided on the mobile lateral face (5a), suitable for allowing to slide the battery (10) whenever the mobile lateral face (5a) is in an operating position.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 26, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Dulevo International S.p.A.Inventor: Michele Scita
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Publication number: 20040200017Abstract: One aspect of the invention relates to a power control system for a floor-maintenance tool. The power control system measures the overall power exerted by the tool motor, including the current through the tool motor and the voltage level of the power source to the tool motor. The power control system then determines the difference between the measured motor power and a selected desired operating power, and, if this difference is greater than a threshold error, automatically adjusts the force exerted upon the tool motor to either increase or decrease the tool motor power to reach the desired operating power.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2004Publication date: October 14, 2004Inventors: Joylon M. Crane, Paul A. Fuller, Harvey Atkinson
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Patent number: 6779217Abstract: The present invention relates to a horizontally movable and downwardly biased appendage that extends laterally from a surface treating apparatus, such as a robotic floor cleaner. The robotic floor cleaner and/or appendage may use disposable cleaning sheets, such as dust clothes, wipes, sheet-brushes, and the like, to clean under objects or into corners but does not substantially interfere with the rotation of the surface treating apparatus about its axis when it is adjacent to encountered obstacles. The appendage can extend under low hanging obstructions to remove dirt, and reach into corners innavigable or unreachable by the robotic floor cleaner.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2001Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventor: Charles William Fisher
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Patent number: 6775871Abstract: An automatic floor cleaner uses a body member that has a change-of-direction driving mechanism such that when the body member encounters an impediment, the direction of travel of the body member is altered. An extension extends outwardly from the body member and has a cleaning implement removably secured thereto, the cleaning implement running along the ground and cleaning same during operation of the body member.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2001Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Inventor: Edward Finch
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Patent number: 6763544Abstract: Apparatus for treating the surface of a floor includes a wheeled vehicle having a generally central vertical longitudinal plane. A lift unit is mounted on the wheeled vehicle and is capable of up and down movement in the central vertical longitudinal plane of the vehicle. A floor surface treating unit is carried by the lift unit generally underneath the lift unit and has an elongate head. The head has a pivotal connection with the lift unit for rotation of the head on a generally vertical pivot axis in the plane and generally at the center of length of the head for rotation of the head on the pivot axis to different angular positions with respect to the plane of the wheeled vehicle. A locking mechanism associated with the lift unit and the floor surface treating unit releasably locks the head in a selected angular position.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2001Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: Alto US, Inc.Inventor: William R. Stuchlik
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Patent number: 6760947Abstract: Apparatus for treating a floor surface includes a wheeled vehicle having a floor surface treating unit, a drive motor operable to propel the wheeled vehicle and a control system for controlling operation of the apparatus. A handle is mounted on the wheeled vehicle and has a traverse switch unit for selectively operating the apparatus between a traverse mode in which the vehicle is propelled by the drive motor to move relative to the floor surface and an idle mode in which the drive motor is ineffective to propel the vehicle. The traverse switch unit is mounted on the handle such that the traverse switch unit is accessible for movement by the operator toward the first position of the traverse switch unit corresponding to the traverse mode of the apparatus without the operator having to generally release the handle.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2001Date of Patent: July 13, 2004Assignee: Alto U.S. Inc.Inventor: William R. Stuchlik
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Publication number: 20040103490Abstract: A motorized cleaning/polishing device includes a housing and a carrier with a detachable cleaning/polishing attachment. The housing contains a rechargeable battery, motor and flex mount having flexible pillars to which the carrier is mounted. The carrier is also coupled to the motor drive shaft via an eccentric element and bearing. The carrier may have a foam layer with hook fasteners adhered to its underside for removably attaching any one of various attachments to the carrier. Cleanser or polish can be impregnated in the attachment wet or dry, or it can be contained in a perforated or water dissolvable packet sandwiched between the carrier and the attachment. A removable scrub brush can also be attached to the carrier so that its bristle head orbits in front of the device. The device is particularly suited to orbit in the 2,500 to 10,000 OPM range.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2003Publication date: June 3, 2004Inventors: David C. Long, Edward L. Paas, John R. Wietfeldt
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Publication number: 20040074028Abstract: 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, wherein 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2003Publication date: April 22, 2004Inventor: Sean K. Goff
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Patent number: 6715178Abstract: Disclosed is a device for use with a conventional automobile hand polisher for use in polishing of floors. The device includes a detachable handle having a storage bin and an actuation leaver. The handle provides control of a high speed polisher in a stand-up position, the storage bin provides an area for the placement of weight and for storing of all items upon when not in use. By use of the disclosed handle, a high speed lightweight orbital polisher can be employed for providing a high gloss finish to most floor surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2002Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Inventor: Pasquale Graceffo
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Patent number: 6705332Abstract: A hard floor surface cleaning apparatus includes an aerator, a rotating scrub medium engaging the hard floor surface, a fluid conveyor, and a fluid recovery device. The aerator is configured to produce a foam-like aerated cleaning liquid from a cleaning liquid. The fluid conveyor is coupled to the aerator and is configured to deliver the aerated cleaning liquid onto the scrub medium. The fluid recovery device is configured to remove soiled solution from the hard floor surface.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2002Date of Patent: March 16, 2004Assignee: Tennant CompanyInventors: Bruce F. Field, Bryan L. Christensen, Michael L. Blehert
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Publication number: 20040045108Abstract: A floor machine for cleaning floors with a rotary brush or buffer includes (1) a base assembly having a motor and skirt with no frame and (2) a handle and frame assembly. The frame/handle assembly can readily be attached to the base assembly by a simple engagement of the frame to a support mounted on the housing of the motor. This permits (1) the handle and frame assembly to be packaged in a shipping carton which need only be tall enough to accommodate the wheel diameter of the handle/frame assembly and (2) the base assembly of motor and skirt to be packaged in a second carton having a size which need only accommodate such base/motor and skirt assembly with no significant wasted space.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2002Publication date: March 11, 2004Inventor: Jeffery R. Fellhauer
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Patent number: 6698055Abstract: A sweeping machine of the type having two rotating brushes which in operation sweep material into a sweeping lip assembly is provided. In order to prevent damages to the sweeping lip, the forward area which in use contacts the ground during sweeping operations is configured upwardly elasticly deformable by weakening slots provided in reinforcement structure thereof and/or by different elastic characteristics of molded plastic material forming the sweeping lip.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2000Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: Ing. Haaga Werkzeugbau KGInventor: Hermann Haaga
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Publication number: 20040031121Abstract: A dust collecting device is disclosed for use with cleaning equipment such as a vacuum cleaner. The device is a disposable dust ruffle made of an electet material. The ruffle prevents the equipment from spreading dust and itself acts as a dust magnet, both with respect to dust agitated by the machine and with respect to dust present in confined areas such as corners.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2002Publication date: February 19, 2004Inventors: Frederick H. Martin, Robert T. Wosewick, Jose Porchia
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Publication number: 20040025270Abstract: A floor surface treatment apparatus having a wheeled vehicle including a support for a floor surface treatment unit, the support being moveable relative to the vehicle. A floor surface treatment unit is pivotally carried by the support for swinging movement relative thereto. The support is configured to raise and lower the unit relative to the floor surface, upon movement of the support relative to the vehicle, through a range of working positions in which the unit maintains a generally vertical orientation relative to the floor surface and is generally in contact therewith and a servicing position in which the unit is swung up relative to the vehicle above the floor surface to a position in which the unit is generally angled relative to the floor surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2002Publication date: February 12, 2004Applicant: Alto U.S., Inc.Inventors: Kevin Mitchell, John L. Obenshain
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Patent number: 6668420Abstract: A cleaner for cleaning a surface is provided comprising a main body and a brush assembly for engaging the surface being cleaned. An engaging member on the main body or brush assembly and a retaining portion on the other main body or brush assembly. The engaging member and retaining portion are releasably connected to each other such that the engaging member or retaining portion is accessible for engagement by a user to disengage the engaging member from the retaining portion.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2001Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: The Hoover CompanyInventors: Larry W. Hannan, Ryan S. Steiner, Leron R. Thomas
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Publication number: 20030226225Abstract: Disclosed is a device for use with a conventional automobile hand polisher for use in polishing of floors. The device includes a detachable handle having a storage bin and an actuation leaver. The handle provides control of a high speed polisher in a stand-up position, the storage bin provides an area for the placement of weight and for storing of all items upon when not in use. By use of the disclosed handle, a high speed lightweight orbital polisher can be employed for providing a high gloss finish to most floor surfaces.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Pasquale Graceffo
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Patent number: 6651286Abstract: A quick disconnect hub which is secured to the motor drive shaft receives a high pitch threaded pad driver disk to which a burnishing pad is mounted. The hub includes a conically tapered surface, as does the driver disk for centering. A spring-loaded locking pin extends between the burnishing motor and selectively locks the drive hub against rotation for removal of the driver disk by rotating approximately one or two times, thus allowing the removal of the pad driver from the motor and allowing the centered mounting of the burnishing pad to the driver remote from the machine. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, an interlock switch is coupled to the spring-loaded locking pin such that, when the hub is locked against rotation for removal of the driver disk, the switch prevents inadvertent activation of the motor when the hub is locked.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Tennant CompanyInventor: Paul M. Pierce
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Patent number: 6647578Abstract: A floor cleaning device includes a main body and a brush assembly for engaging the surface of the floor being cleaned. An actuating member is movably connected to the main body. A latch member is rotatably connected to the main body. An engaging member is attached to the brush assembly. The engaging member is releasably connected to the latch member such that pushing the actuating member rotates the latch member to disengage from the engaging member.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2001Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: The Hoover CompanyInventors: Jeffery A. Morgan, Adam C. Sclafani, Jeffrey S. Louis, David L. O'Neal, Siu Wai Hui
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Patent number: RE39581Abstract: An apparatus for use on comprising a vehicle adapted to move across a surface and responsive to an operator. A head assembly connected to a support on the vehicle is adapted to carry a device for engaging the surface. An actuator on the vehicle raises and lowers the head assembly support relative to the surface. A position control responsive to operator input indicates a head position of the device relative to the surface or range of head positions of the device head assembly relative to the surface support. The head position or the range of head positions indicates a distance or range of distances, respectively, between the device and the surface. A controller responsive to the position control selectively actuates the actuator or maintain the device head assembly in the head position or within the range of head positions as indicated by the position control.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2003Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: Alto U.S., Inc.Inventors: William Stuchlik, Lenard Deiterman, Marvin Curtis, Gerald Courtney, James Keazer