Base for suction cleaner and method of use thereof

Abstract

A base for a suction cleaner comprises: (a) a base comprising: a horizontal wall presenting a top surface having a perimeter; and an inner peripheral wall extending upwardly from the top surface, the inner peripheral wall and the horizontal wall being configured to receive a suction cleaner base; and (b) a tool head cleaning tray comprising: a bottom wall and one or more side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray to define a reservoir for cleaning liquid; a protrusion extending upwardly from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray; an insertion position inserted into the receiving seat of the base of the base; the tool head cleaning tray can be selectively operated to an insertion position and an extraction position, the extraction position is at least partially extracted from the receiving seat of the base part of the base, and the tool head cleaning tray can be selectively operated to the insertion position and the extraction position, can be operated to the insertion position and the extraction position, and can be operated between the insertion position and the extraction position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a dock for an extraction cleaner and methods of using the same, and more particularly to a dock having a retractable tool head cleaning tray and / or a detachable tool head receiver. Background Art

[0002] Extraction cleaners have been used to clean surfaces, such as those provided by upholstery, carpets, and fabrics. Extraction cleaners sometimes include a fluid delivery system and a fluid recovery system. The fluid delivery system allows the user of the extraction cleaner to dispense a cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned. The user can then agitate the surface with the dispensed cleaning fluid, thereby cleaning the surface. The fluid recovery system allows the user to extract the cleaning fluid from the surface, as well as debris (e.g., dirt) loosened from the surface.

[0003] Suction cleaners sometimes include a hose that terminates in a cleaning tool. The cleaning tool and the hose form part of a fluid delivery system and a fluid recovery system. Cleaning fluid can be directed to a dispenser at the cleaning tool via a conduit connected to the hose. Cleaning fluid with debris loosened from the surface can be drawn in via suction through a suction nozzle of the cleaning tool connected to the hose. The cleaning fluid and material loosened from the surface then pass through the hose into a recovery tank of the fluid recovery system.

[0004] Sometimes, the extraction cleaner is portable. In this case, the extraction cleaner may include its own fluid delivery system and fluid recovery system, including a supply tank for the cleaning fluid and a recovery tank for the cleaning fluid and material loosened from the surface. In addition, the extraction cleaner is sometimes provided with a wand connected to a hose, so that the cleaning tool takes the form of one of any number of tool heads that are selectively connected to and removed from the wand to form a connection with the hose. These tool heads may include bristles or other components that help agitate the cleaning fluid on the surface. Summary of the Invention

[0005] However, several problems have arisen. First, after use, cleaning fluid and debris loosened from surfaces may remain on the tool head (e.g., between the bristles), within the hose, and within the fluid recovery system. This is a problem because the tool head may become unsightly and / or may develop an unpleasant odor over time. Second, there is often no obvious way for the user to clean the tool head to remove residual cleaning fluid and debris from the tool head and fluid recovery system without expending significant time and effort. Third, even extraction cleaners designed to be portable may not provide a place for the user to store the tool head used with the extraction cleaner. This is a problem because the user may store the tool head and then forget where they left it.

[0006] The present disclosure addresses these issues in several ways. The first and second issues are addressed by a base for an extraction cleaner that includes a tool head cleaning tray that can be inserted into the base of the base when not in use and at least partially removed from the base during use to clean the tool head. The tool head cleaning tray includes a reservoir for cleaning fluid and debris loosened from the tool head, as well as a protrusion to help loosen the debris from the tool head. After removing most of the cleaning fluid and debris from the reservoir, the tool head cleaning tray is reinserted into the base of the base. The base includes a vent above the reservoir to allow any residual moisture in the reservoir to evaporate. For added convenience, the user does not need to completely remove the tool head cleaning tray from the base to use it to clean the tool head. The user can choose to use the tool head cleaning tray while it remains attached to the base. However, in one embodiment, the tool head cleaning tray is fully removable if the user prefers.

[0007] The third problem is solved by a base for an extraction cleaner, the base having a base and a tool bit receiver extending from the base. The tool bit receiver itself includes a base and at least two arms extending outwardly from the base, each arm terminating in an upwardly extending protrusion and shaped to receive a different tool bit for storage.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a base for an extractor cleaner comprises: (a) a base including: (i) a horizontal wall presenting a top surface having a perimeter; and (ii) an inner peripheral wall extending upwardly from at least a portion of the top surface of the horizontal wall, the inner peripheral wall and the horizontal wall being configured to receive the base of the extractor cleaner, wherein the top surface of the horizontal wall faces the base of the extractor cleaner and the inner peripheral wall at least partially surrounds the base of the extractor cleaner; and (b) a tool head cleaning tray comprising: (i) a top surface having a perimeter; and (ii) an inner peripheral wall extending upwardly from at least a portion of the top surface of the horizontal wall. The tool head cleaning tray comprises: i) a bottom wall and one or more side walls extending upward from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray to define a reservoir for the cleaning fluid; (ii) a protrusion extending upward from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray; (iii) an inserted position in which the tool head cleaning tray is inserted into a receiving seat at the base of the base; and (iv) a withdrawn position in which the tool head cleaning tray is at least partially withdrawn from the receiving seat at the base of the base, the tool head cleaning tray being selectively maneuverable to and from the inserted and withdrawn positions, and between the inserted and withdrawn positions.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a base for a suction cleaner comprises: (a) a base comprising: (i) a horizontal wall presenting a top surface having a perimeter; and (ii) an inner peripheral wall extending upward from at least a portion of the top surface of the horizontal wall, the inner peripheral wall and the horizontal wall being configured to receive the base of the suction cleaner, wherein the top surface of the horizontal wall faces the base of the suction cleaner and the inner peripheral wall at least partially surrounds the base of the suction cleaner; and (b) a tool head receiver comprising: (i) a base extending outwardly relative to the inner peripheral wall of the base of the base, and (ii) at least two arms extending outwardly from the base of the tool head receiver, each of the at least two arms terminating in a protrusion extending upwardly and configured to receive a tool head for storage.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a base for a suction cleaner includes: (a) a base including a receiving seat and a vent in fluid communication with the receiving seat; and (b) a tool head cleaning tray, which can be inserted into the receiving seat of the base when the tool head cleaning tray is not in use and at least partially withdrawn from the receiving seat of the base during use to clean the tool head of the suction cleaner, the tool head cleaning tray including: a reservoir for cleaning liquid and debris loosened from the tool head; and a protrusion for helping to loosen debris from the tool head.

[0011] These and other features, advantages and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art with reference to the accompanying description, claims and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] In the attached figure:

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an extractor cleaner and a base for receiving the extractor cleaner according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an extraction cleaner docked on a base of a pedestal and a tool head cleaning tray in an extracted position extracted from a receptacle on the base according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an extraction cleaner on a base of a chassis according to one aspect of the present disclosure, showing the base of the chassis having an inner peripheral wall at least partially surrounding the extraction cleaner;

[0016] Figure 4is a perspective view of a base of a pedestal and a tool head cleaning tray in an extracted position according to one aspect of the present disclosure, showing the base of the pedestal having a horizontal wall at least partially defined by an inner peripheral wall of the base of the pedestal and a vent hole passing through the horizontal wall;

[0017] Figure 5 is a plan view of a tool head cleaning tray according to one aspect of the present disclosure, illustrating a bottom wall, opposing side walls, and a rear wall defining a reservoir for a cleaning fluid, and a projection extending upwardly from the bottom wall;

[0018] Figure 6 According to one aspect of the present disclosure Figure 5 an elevational view of a section of the tool head cleaning tray taken along line VI-VI, showing a protrusion having a hook shape and a bottom wall sloping downwardly toward the rear wall;

[0019] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a tool head cleaning tray according to one aspect of the present disclosure showing projections projecting outwardly from a side wall;

[0020] Figure 8 is a plan view of a base according to one aspect of the present disclosure showing a tool head cleaning tray in an inserted position within a receptacle at a base of the base, and the base further comprising a tool head receiver extending from the base;

[0021] Figure 9 According to one aspect of the present disclosure Figure 8 a slight perspective view of a section of the base taken along line IX-IX showing vent holes through a horizontal wall of the base of the base, the vent holes extending above and in fluid communication with a reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray;

[0022] Figure 10 is a front view of a base according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the base having a tool head receiver extending outwardly from a base of the base, and the base of the base including a receptacle below a horizontal wall for receiving a tool head cleaning tray in an inserted position;

[0023] Figure 11 is a bottom view of a base according to one aspect of the present disclosure having a tool head cleaning tray decoupled from a base of the base, illustrating that the base of the base includes a track system that cooperates with protrusions extending from side walls of the tool head cleaning tray and guides maneuvering of the tool head cleaning tray to, from, and between inserted and extracted positions;

[0024] Figure 12is a perspective view of a base and a tool bit receiver of a chassis according to one aspect of the present disclosure, illustrating that the base of the chassis includes a peripheral wall having a discontinuity to accommodate a tool bit cleaning tray when the tool bit cleaning tray is in an inserted position;

[0025] Figure 13 According to one aspect of the present disclosure Figure 11 an elevational view of a section of the base of the base and the tool bit receiver taken along line XIII-XIII of FIG. 1 , showing the base of the base including a tool bit receiver connector extending outwardly from an outer peripheral wall of the base, the tool bit receiver connector coupled to the base of the tool bit receiver;

[0026] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a base according to one aspect of the present disclosure, wherein (i) a tool bit receiver is in a coupled position coupled to a base of the base and (ii) a tool bit cleaning tray is in an inserted position inserted into a receptacle of the base of the base, illustrating that the tool bit receiver includes arms extending outwardly from the base of the tool bit receiver and that the arms terminate in protrusions shaped to receive a tool bit for storage;

[0027] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a base according to one aspect of the present disclosure showing a tool bit receiver in a decoupled position separated from a tool bit receiver connector;

[0028] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a tool bit receiver separated from a base of a mount, showing the base and the tool bit receiver arms providing a continuous bottom edge, according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of a method of using a base according to one aspect of the present disclosure, showing a first manipulation step, a dispensing step, a contacting step, a passing step, a removing step, a second manipulation step, and an optional storing step;

[0030] Figure 18 is a perspective view of a dispensing step according to one aspect of the present disclosure, illustrating dispensing cleaning fluid from a tool head in fluid communication with a fluid supply tank assembly of an extraction cleaner, wherein the cleaning fluid flows into a reservoir of a cleaning tray of the tool head;

[0031] Figure 19 is a perspective view of a contacting step according to one aspect of the present disclosure, showing an agitating element (e.g., bristles) of a tool head contacting a cleaning fluid within a reservoir of a cleaning tray of the tool head;

[0032] Figure 20is a perspective view of a passing step according to one aspect of the present disclosure showing a stirring element of a tool head passing over a protrusion of a tool head cleaning tray and debris previously retained on and between the stirring element flowing into a reservoir along with cleaning fluid;

[0033] Figure 21 is a perspective view of a tool head according to one aspect of the present disclosure showing a suction nozzle proximate to a stirring element;

[0034] Figure 22 is a perspective view of a removal step according to one aspect of the present disclosure showing a tool head removing cleaning fluid laden with debris from a reservoir, wherein the cleaning fluid laden with debris flows into a suction nozzle, through a hose (thereby additionally cleaning the hose), and into a recovery tank assembly of the extraction cleaner; and

[0035] Figure 23 is a perspective view of an extraction cleaner on a base with a tool head cleaning tray returned to an inserted position within a receptacle of the base and another tool head stored on the tool head receptacle according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0036] The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] The illustrated embodiments of the present invention reside primarily in a combination of method steps and apparatus components associated with a chassis for an extraction cleaner. Accordingly, where appropriate, apparatus components and method steps have been represented in the drawings using conventional symbols, with only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure being shown so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Furthermore, like reference numerals in the specification and drawings represent like elements.

[0038] For the purpose of this description, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and their derivatives shall be used in the same manner as in the preceding text. Figure 1 Unless otherwise specified, the term "front" shall refer to the surface of the element that is closer to the intended observer, and the term "rear" shall refer to the surface of the element that is farther from the intended observer. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may take various alternative orientations unless expressly provided otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific structures and processes depicted in the drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Therefore, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics associated with the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0039] The terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprising..." does not, without more constraints, preclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0040] refer to Figures 1 to 2 , described herein is a dock 10 for an extraction cleaner 12. The dock 10 includes a base 14 and a tool head cleaning tray 16. The base 14 is configured to receive a base 18 of the extraction cleaner 12, as will be discussed further.

[0041] The tool head cleaning tray 16 can be selectively inserted into the base 14 of the base 10. When the tool head cleaning tray 16 is not in use, the tool head cleaning tray 16 can be inserted into the receiving seat 64 of the base 14 (see Figure 2 ), and during use, the tool head cleaning tray 16 can be at least partially withdrawn from the receiving seat 64 of the base 14 to clean the tool head 24 of the suction cleaner 12. More specifically, the tool head cleaning tray 16 can be selectively manipulated into the insertion position 20 ( Figure 1 ) and an extracted position 22 ( Figure 2 ), and can be manipulated from and between the inserted and withdrawn positions. The tool head cleaning tray 16 need not be fully withdrawn from the receptacles 64 of the base 14 to be in the withdrawn position 22 and can be used for the purposes described herein, although in embodiments, the tool head cleaning tray 16 can be fully withdrawn and separated from the base 14 in the withdrawn position 22. The extraction cleaner 12 includes a tool head 24, and a user can utilize the tool head cleaning tray 16 to clean the tool head 24, as will also be discussed further.

[0042] Additional references Figures 3 and 4 , the base 14 includes a horizontal wall 26 (see Figure 4) and an inner peripheral wall 28. Horizontal wall 26 has a top surface 30. Top surface 30 has a perimeter 32. Inner peripheral wall 28 can at least partially define perimeter 32 of top surface 30 by extending 34 upward from at least a portion of top surface 30. Horizontal wall 26 and inner peripheral wall 28 are positioned and configured to receive base 18 of extraction cleaner 12. For example, top surface 30 of horizontal wall 26 faces base 18 of extraction cleaner 12 and can support the base 18 of extraction cleaner 12 from below. Furthermore, inner peripheral wall 28 at least partially surrounds base 18 of extraction cleaner 12, which can help extraction cleaner 12 rest on base 14 of base 10.

[0043] Additional references Figures 5 to 7 , the tool head cleaning tray 16 includes a reservoir 40. For example, in an embodiment, the tool head cleaning tray 16 includes a bottom wall 36 and one or more side walls 38 extending upward 34 from the bottom wall 36. As for the one or more side walls 38, the illustrated embodiment includes a rear wall 38a and opposing side walls 38b, 38c. The bottom wall 36 and the one or more side walls 38 (e.g., 38a-38c) together define the reservoir 40. The reservoir 40 can contain, for example, a cleaning fluid 42, as will be discussed further below. The bottom wall 36 slopes downward 41 toward the rear wall 38a (see Figure 6 ).

[0044] Additionally, the tool head cleaning tray 16 includes a protrusion 44. The protrusion 44 extends upwardly from the bottom wall 36 (see FIG. Figure 6 ). The protrusion 44 can be in the shape of a hook, as in the illustrated embodiment. As discussed further below, the protrusion 44 helps remove debris 46 from the tool head 24 of the extraction cleaner 12. The reservoir 40 at least temporarily contains the cleaning fluid 42 and the debris 46. The protrusion 44 provides a surface against which the tool head 24 can be agitated to remove debris that may be stuck in the agitating element 224 and / or the suction port 225 of the suction nozzle 226 of the tool head 24 (see, for example, FIG. Figures 20 to 21 While the protrusion 44 is shown as having a hook shape, the protrusion 44 may take a variety of forms to facilitate clearing debris from the agitating element 224 and / or the suction port 225, non-limiting examples of which include raised nubs, ribs, high friction surfaces, serrated protrusions, and combinations thereof.

[0045] Additional references Figures 8 and 9, the base 14 includes a plurality of vent holes 48 in communication with the receptacle 64. When the tool head cleaning tray 16 is inserted into the receptacle 64 of the base 14, the vent holes 48 are positioned to allow residual moisture within the reservoir 40 to evaporate therefrom through the vent holes 48. For example, in an embodiment, the horizontal wall 26 of the base 14 includes a plurality of vent holes 48 therethrough. The plurality of vent holes 48 are positioned so that when the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the inserted position 20 (see, e.g., Figure 9 ), its reservoir 40 is positioned below and exposed to the plurality of vents 48. In other words, when the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the inserted position 20 within the receptacle 64 of the base 14, the horizontal wall 26 and the plurality of vents 48 can be positioned above the reservoir 40 of the tool head cleaning tray 16. Each of the plurality of vents 48 can extend laterally from above one of the opposing side walls 38 b of the tool head cleaning tray 16 to above the other of the opposing side walls 38 c of the tool head cleaning tray 16. However, other orientations and shapes are contemplated, and any number of the plurality of vents 48 can be present.

[0046] In the implementation plan, again refer to Figure 4 , the inner peripheral wall 28 of the base 14 of the base 10 includes a discontinuity 50. For example, when the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the withdrawn position 22, the horizontal wall 26 of the base 14 of the base 10 has an edge 52 that is exposed to the external environment 54 and is not restricted by the inner peripheral wall 28. In such an embodiment, the tool head cleaning tray 16 includes a handle 56. The handle 56 has an inwardly facing surface 58. When the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the inserted position 20, the inwardly facing surface 58 of the tool head cleaning tray 16 fills the discontinuity 50 and is flush with the inner peripheral wall 28 of the base 14 of the base 10, as shown Figure 8 and Figure 9 shown.

[0047] Additional references Figures 10 to 12, the base 14 of the base 10 also includes a receiving seat 64, as described above. For example, in an embodiment, the base 14 includes a pair of side walls 60a, 60b and a rear wall 62. The pair of side walls 60a, 60b and the rear wall 62 are lower in height than the top surface 30 of the horizontal wall 26. The pair of side walls 60a, 60b are opposite to each other. The rear wall 62 is orthogonal to and adjacent to the pair of side walls 60a, 60b. The pair of side walls 60a, 60b and the rear wall 62 define a receiving seat 64 to receive the tool head cleaning tray 16 in the inserted position 20. The receiving seat 64 can take other forms. In the inserted position 20, the reservoir 40 of the tool head cleaning tray 16 is arranged in the receiving seat 64 more than in the withdrawn position 22. More specifically, in the inserted position 20, the reservoir 40 of the tool bit cleaning tray 16 is disposed forwardly 66 of the rear wall 62 of the base 14, sandwiched between the pair of side walls 60a, 60b of the base 14, and at a lower elevation than the horizontal wall 26 of the base 14. The tool bit cleaning tray 16 may be completely removed when in the withdrawn position 22. However, the tool bit cleaning tray 16 need not be completely removed and may be partially located within the receptacle 64 when in the withdrawn position 22.

[0048] In the implementation plan, still refer to Figures 10 to 12 , each of the pair of side walls 60a, 60b of the base 14 of the chassis 10 includes a track system 68. For example, the track system 68 of the side wall 60a can include a top elongated protrusion 70 and a bottom elongated protrusion 72 that is opposite the top elongated protrusion 70 but leaves a slot 74 therebetween. The slot 74 terminates at the rear wall 62 of the base 14. The slot 74 opens at an entrance 76 into the slot 74. The bottom elongated protrusion 72 includes a recessed portion 78 and a stop 80 adjacent to the recessed portion 78 near the entrance 76. The track system 68 of the side wall 60b can be a mirror image of the track system 68 of the side wall 60a, without repeating all features.

[0049] To engage the rail system 68, refer again to Figure 5 The tool head cleaning tray 16 includes a protrusion 82 extending outward from side surfaces 84 and 87 of the tool head cleaning tray 16. The side surface 84 is opposite the side wall 60a of the base 14, while the side surface 87 is opposite the side wall 60 of the base 14. The protrusion 82 may include a front protrusion 82a and a rear protrusion 82b protruding from the side surface 84, and a front protrusion 82c and a rear protrusion 82d protruding from the side surface 87. The front protrusions 82a and 82c are located closer to the handle 56 than the rear protrusions 82b and 82d.

[0050] The tabs 82 of the tool head cleaning tray 16 cooperate with the track system 68 of the base 14 to guide the tool head cleaning tray 16 to and from the inserted position 20 and the withdrawn position 22, and between the inserted and withdrawn positions. In the inserted position 20, the tabs 82 are located in the slots 74 of the track system 68 on the bottom elongated tab 72. The front tabs 82a, 82c are located in the recesses 78 in the bottom elongated tab 72, which prevent the tool head cleaning tray 16 from being manipulated from the inserted position 20 to the withdrawn position 22, in which the tool head cleaning tray 16 is at least partially withdrawn from the receptacle 64. When the pulling force 85 (see FIG. 1 ) is applied, the tool head cleaning tray 16 is pulled out of the receptacle 64. Figure 2 When, for example, a pulling force applied to the handle 56 overcomes the resistance provided by the depression 78, the front protrusions 82a, 82c exit the entrance 76 of the slot 74, while the rear protrusions 82b, 82d slide within the slot 74. Eventually, the rear protrusions 82b, 82d come to rest within the depression 78 of the elongated protrusion 72. The tool head cleaning tray 16 is now in the withdrawn position 22, but the rear protrusions 82b, 82d are still engaged with the depression 78 of the track system 68, and the tool head cleaning tray 16 remains coupled to the base 14. By further pulling force 85, the user can overcome the resistance again provided by the depression 78, and the rear protrusions 82b, 82d finally exit the entrance 76 of the slot 74. At this point, the tool head cleaning tray 16 is still in the withdrawn position 22, but this time is completely decoupled from the base 14 and the track system 68.

[0051] Additional references Figure 13 In an embodiment, the base 14 further includes an outer peripheral wall 86. The outer peripheral wall 86 is exposed to the external environment 54. The outer peripheral wall 86 is connected to the inner peripheral wall 28 at a top edge 88 of the base 14. The outer peripheral wall 86 at least partially surrounds (e.g., laterally) the inner peripheral wall 28. The outer peripheral wall 86 extends downwardly 41 from the top edge 88 to form a bottom edge 90 of the base 14. The bottom edge 90 is lower in height than the horizontal wall 26.

[0052] Reference again Figure 4 In an embodiment, similar to the inner peripheral wall 28, the outer peripheral wall 86 of the base 14 of the base 10 includes a discontinuity 92. The handle 56 of the tool head cleaning tray 16 also includes an outwardly facing surface 94. When the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the inserted position 20 (e.g., Figure 1 ), the outwardly facing surface 94 fills the discontinuity 92 and is flush with the peripheral wall 86 of the base 14 of the base 10 adjacent to the discontinuity 92 .

[0053] Additional references Figures 14 to 16In an embodiment, the base 10 further includes a tool bit receiver 96. The tool bit receiver 96 is disposed outwardly relative to the inner peripheral wall 28 of the base 14 of the base 10 and the outer peripheral wall 86 of the base 14 of the base 10 (if included). The tool bit receiver 96 is configured to selectively receive a tool bit 24 for storage. For example, as in the illustrated embodiment, the tool bit receiver 96 includes a base 98 and at least two arms 100. The base 98 of the tool bit receiver 96 extends outwardly relative to the inner peripheral wall 28 of the base 14 of the base 10. The at least two arms 100 extend outwardly from the base 98 of the tool bit receiver 96. Each of the at least two arms 100 terminates in a protrusion 102 that extends upwardly 34 and is configured to receive a tool bit 24 for storage. For example, the protrusion 102 may provide a vertical surface 104 having a cross-sectional shape that matches a void within the tool head 24 such that the tool head 24 may be placed over the protrusion 102 while the protrusion 102 is within the void.

[0054] The base 98 of the tool head receiver 96 includes a bottom edge 106. The at least two arms 100 each include a bottom edge 108. The bottom edges 106, 108 are flush with each other. The bottom edges 106, 108 (if included) are flush with the bottom edge 90 of the peripheral wall 86 of the base 14 of the base 10.

[0055] In an embodiment, the tool bit receiver 96 is selectively removable from the base 14 of the base 10. For example, as in the illustrated embodiment, the base 14 of the base 10 may also include a tool bit receiver connector 110 (see, e.g., FIG. Figure 15 ). The tool head receiver connector 110 is configured to selectively receive the tool head receiver 96. To achieve this, the tool head receiver connector 110 may include a base 112 and a protrusion 114 extending 34 degrees upward from the base 112. The base 112 of the tool head receiver connector 110 extends outwardly from the peripheral wall 86 of the base 14 of the base 10. The tool head receiver connector 110 is flush with the bottom edge 90 of the base 14 of the base 10. The protrusion 114 is shaped to be removably coupled to the tool head receiver 96. In the example shown, the protrusion 114 is cylindrical, and the tool head receiver 96 includes a cylindrical void-shaped receiver 116 (see Figure 16 ) to receive the protrusion 114. The tool head receiver 96 can be detachably coupled to the protrusion 114 of the tool head receiver connector 110 and manipulated to a coupled position 115 of the tool head receiver connector 110 coupled to the base 14 of the base 10 (see Figure 14 ) and a disengaged position 117 for disengaging from the tool head receiver connector 110 (see Figure 15), and can be manipulated from and between the coupled and uncoupled positions. As will be discussed further, a user can store one or more tool heads 24 for the extraction cleaner 12 on the tool head receiver 96 (see, e.g., Figure 3 ). The base 14 of the chassis 10, the tool bit cleaning tray 16, and the tool bit receiver 96 may all be formed from molded plastic, although other materials, such as metal, are contemplated.

[0056] Additional references Figure 17 , described herein is a method 200 of using the base 10 of the extraction cleaner 12. The method 200 includes a first manipulation step 202, a dispensing step 204, a contacting step 206, a passing step 208, a removal step 210, and a second manipulation step 212. In an embodiment, the method 200 may also include a storage step 214. Each of steps 202-214 will now be described in further detail.

[0057] The first manipulation step 202 includes moving the tool head cleaning tray 16 from the insertion position 20 (see, e.g., Figure 1 ) is manipulated to the withdrawn position 22 (see e.g. Figure 2 As described above, the user can apply a pulling force 85 to the handle 56 to perform the first manipulation step 202. When performing the first manipulation step 202, the base 14 of the base 10 can be positioned on the floor, a table, or some other surface. The tool head cleaning tray 16 can be positioned adjacent to the base 14 of the base 10 when in the extracted position 22, or can remain coupled to the base 14.

[0058] Now refer to Figure 18 , the dispensing step 204 includes dispensing cleaning fluid 42 from a fluid dispenser 216 coupled to a hose 218 of the extraction cleaner 12 into a reservoir 40 of the tool head cleaning tray 16. The extraction cleaner 12 may include a fluid supply tank assembly 220 for storing a supply of cleaning fluid 42. In addition, the extraction cleaner 12 may include a fluid dispenser 216 located on the tool head 24. The fluid dispenser 216 is in fluid communication with the fluid supply tank assembly 220, such as through a pipe and a pump. The tool head 24 may include a trigger 222 that a user can manipulate to cause the cleaning fluid 42 to flow from the fluid supply tank assembly 220 and out of the fluid dispenser 216 into the reservoir 40. Alternatively, the cleaning fluid 42 may be water or some other fluid that can be added to the reservoir 40 from a faucet or other storage container.

[0059] Now refer to Figure 19 The contacting step 206 includes causing the stirring element 224 of the tool head 24 (see again Figure 21) to contact the cleaning liquid 42 within the reservoir 40. The stirring element 224 may be the bristles of a brush, among other options. Prior to performing method 200, the stirring element 224 may have already been used to agitate the surface to be cleaned. To bring the stirring element 224 into contact with the cleaning liquid 42, the stirring element 224 may be lowered into the cleaning liquid 42 held within the reservoir 40.

[0060] Now refer to Figure 20 , step 208 includes passing the agitating element 224 over the protrusion 44 of the tool head cleaning tray 16. Thus, passing the agitating element 224 over the protrusion 44, which extends upward between adjacent agitating elements 224 (e.g., adjacent bristles), loosens debris 46 (dirt, hair, etc.) held between and on the agitating elements 224 and / or trapped within the suction port 225. The debris 46 may originate from a surface that the user previously cleaned with the extraction cleaner 12. The cleaning fluid 42, now containing the debris 46 loosened from the agitating element 224, flows and is deposited within the reservoir 40.

[0061] Now refer to Figure 22 , the removing step 210 includes removing the cleaning fluid 42 with the debris 46 from the reservoir 40 using suction. As described above, the tool head 24 includes a suction nozzle 226, which can be located near the agitating element 224. The extraction cleaner 12 also includes a recovery tank assembly 228, which is in fluid flow communication with the suction nozzle 226 via the hose 218. The extraction cleaner 12 can include a pump to generate suction at the suction port 225 of the suction nozzle 226. Due to the suction, the cleaning fluid 42 with the debris 46 in the reservoir 40 enters the suction nozzle 226, flows through the hose 218, and is deposited into the recovery tank assembly 228.

[0062] The second manipulating step 212 includes manipulating the tool head cleaning tray 16 to the insertion position 20. After cleaning the agitating element 224 and extracting the cleaning fluid 42 with the debris 46 from the reservoir 40 of the tool head cleaning tray 16, the user can move the tool head cleaning tray 16 to the base 14 of the base 10 for storage. Optionally, the tool head cleaning tray 16 can be emptied and / or rinsed in a sink or trash container prior to the second manipulating step 212 to clean or rinse the tool head cleaning tray 16 for storage.

[0063] In some cases, despite the removal step 210 being performed, the reservoir 40 still contains some cleaning fluid 42. The cleaning fluid 42 may include an evaporating component, such as water. Although the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the inserted position 20 within the base 14 of the base 10 after the second manipulation step 212 is performed, the water within the cleaning fluid 42 evaporates from the cleaning fluid 42, exits the reservoir 40, and flows through the vent 48 (see, e.g., FIG. 2 ). Figure 1 ), through the horizontal wall 26 of the base 14 of the base 10 and into the external environment 54.

[0064] In an embodiment, the first manipulation step 202, the dispensing step 204, the contacting step 206, the removing step 210, and the second manipulation step 212 are all performed while the extraction cleaner 12 is docked in the base 14 of the pedestal 10 (e.g., Figure 18 ). When performing steps 202-212 of method 200, the extraction cleaner 12 may alternatively be placed elsewhere.

[0065] Now refer to Figure 23 As described above, in an embodiment, method 200 further includes a storing step 214. Storing step 214 includes separating tool head 24 from hose 218 and coupling tool head 24 to tool head receiver 96. In this manner, a user can store tool head 24 for later use.

[0066] The base 10 with the tool head cleaning tray 16 and / or the tool head receptacle 96 addresses the issues discussed in the Summary of the Invention in several ways. The tool head cleaning tray 16 allows the user to remove debris 46 from the tool head 24, such as after using it to clean a surface. The protrusions 44 extend between the agitating elements 224 to facilitate the loosening of debris 46 from the agitating elements. The reservoir 40 contains cleaning fluid 42 for cleaning the tool head 24 and loosened debris 46. The user can then draw the cleaning fluid 42 through suction, which then flows through the hose 218 to also clean the hose 218. The entire suction path of the extraction cleaner 12 is rinsed clean. Cleaning and rinsing the tool head 24 and hose 218 helps maintain their appearance and reduces the potential for odor over time. Any remaining moisture in the reservoir 40 evaporates through the vents 48 in the base 14 of the base 10, further reducing the potential for odor. The tool head cleaning tray 16 provides an easily accessible way for the user to clean the tool head 24 and hose 218 .

[0067] The tool head receiver 96 provides the user with at least two connection opportunities for storing one or more tool heads 24 conveniently connected to the base 10 near the extraction cleaner 12. The arm 100 with the protrusion 44 reduces material usage compared to bulkier storage options. The tool head receiver 96 can be detachable, allowing the user to reduce the footprint of the base 10 if the tool head 24 storage option is not required. A detachable tool head receiver 96 also allows for different product model variations, where models that include multiple tools can also include the tool head receiver 96, while other models that do not include multiple tools (e.g., less expensive models) do not include the tool head receiver 96. However, the same mold can be used to manufacture both models, saving some costs in tooling and manufacturing.

[0068] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a base for an extractor cleaner comprises: (a) a base, the base comprising: (i) a horizontal wall, the horizontal wall presenting a top surface having a perimeter; and (ii) an inner peripheral wall extending upward from at least a portion of the top surface of the horizontal wall, the inner peripheral wall and the horizontal wall being configured to receive a base of the extractor cleaner, wherein the top surface of the horizontal wall faces the base of the extractor cleaner and the inner peripheral wall at least partially surrounds the base of the extractor cleaner; and (b) a tool head cleaning tray, the tool head cleaning tray comprising: (i) a bottom wall and (ii) an inner peripheral wall extending upward from at least a portion of the top surface of the horizontal wall. (i) one or more side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray to define a reservoir for cleaning fluid; (ii) a protrusion extending upwardly from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray; (iii) an insertion position, the insertion position being inserted into a receiving seat at the base of the base; and (iv) a withdrawal position, the withdrawal position being at least partially withdrawn from the receiving seat at the base of the base, the tool head cleaning tray being selectively maneuverable to, from, and between the insertion position and the withdrawal position.

[0069] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a base of the first aspect, wherein (i) the horizontal wall of the base of the base includes a plurality of vent holes therethrough, and (ii) in the inserted position, the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray is disposed below and exposed to the plurality of vent holes.

[0070] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a base according to any one of the first to second aspects is provided, wherein (i) the inner peripheral wall of the base of the base includes a discontinuity, and (ii) the tool head cleaning tray includes a handle having an inwardly facing surface, and when the tool head cleaning tray is in the inserted position, the inwardly facing surface fills the discontinuity and is flush with the inner peripheral wall of the base of the base adjacent to the discontinuity.

[0071] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a base of any one of the first to third aspects is provided, wherein (a) the base of the base further comprises: (i) a pair of side walls opposite to each other; and (ii) a rear wall, the rear wall being orthogonal to and adjacent to the pair of side walls, and (b) in the inserted position, the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray is arranged in front of the rear wall of the base, sandwiched between the pair of side walls of the base of the base, and below the horizontal wall of the base of the base.

[0072] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a base of the fourth aspect is proposed, wherein (i) each of the pair of side walls of the base of the base includes a rail system, and (ii) the tool head cleaning tray includes a protrusion, which extends outward from the side surface of the tool head cleaning tray and cooperates with the rail system to guide the tool head cleaning tray to be manipulated to the insertion position and the extraction position, from the insertion position and the extraction position, and between the insertion position and the extraction position.

[0073] According to the sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a base of any one of the first to fifth aspects is proposed, wherein the base of the base also includes an outer peripheral wall, which is connected to the inner peripheral wall at the top edge of the base of the base, thereby at least partially surrounding the inner peripheral wall, and the outer peripheral wall extends downward from the top edge to the bottom edge, and the bottom edge is lower in height than the horizontal wall.

[0074] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a base according to the sixth aspect is provided, wherein (i) the peripheral wall of the base of the base includes a discontinuity, and (ii) the tool head cleaning tray further includes a handle having an outwardly facing surface, and when the tool head cleaning tray is in the inserted position, the outwardly facing surface fills the discontinuity and is flush with the peripheral wall of the base of the base adjacent to the discontinuity.

[0075] According to the eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the base of any one of the first to fifth aspects also includes a tool head receiver, which is arranged outward relative to the inner peripheral wall, and the tool head receiver is configured to selectively receive a tool head for storage, and the tool head receiver can be selectively removed from the base of the base.

[0076] According to the ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a base according to the eighth aspect is proposed, wherein the base of the base also includes (i) an outer peripheral wall, which is connected to the inner peripheral wall at the top edge of the base of the base, thereby at least partially surrounding the inner peripheral wall, and the outer peripheral wall extends downward from the top edge to the bottom edge, and the bottom edge is lower in height than the horizontal wall; and (ii) a tool head receiver connector, which extends outward from the outer peripheral wall flush with the bottom edge, and the tool head receiver connector is configured to selectively receive the tool head receiver.

[0077] According to the tenth aspect of the present disclosure, a base for a suction cleaner comprises: (a) a base, the base comprising: (i) a horizontal wall, the horizontal wall presenting a top surface having a periphery; and (ii) an inner peripheral wall, the inner peripheral wall extending upward from at least a portion of the top surface of the horizontal wall, the inner peripheral wall and the horizontal wall being configured to receive the base of the suction cleaner, wherein the top surface of the horizontal wall faces the base of the suction cleaner and the inner peripheral wall at least partially surrounds the base of the suction cleaner; and (b) a tool head receiver, the tool head receiver comprising: (i) a base, the base extending outwardly relative to the inner peripheral wall of the base of the base, and (ii) at least two arms, the at least two arms extending outwardly from the base of the tool head receiver, each of the at least two arms terminating in a protrusion, the protrusion extending upwardly and being configured to receive a tool head for storage.

[0078] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided the base of the tenth aspect, wherein the tool bit receiver is selectively detachable from the base portion of the base.

[0079] According to the twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, a base of any one of the tenth to eleventh aspects is proposed, wherein the base of the base also includes an outer peripheral wall, which is connected to the inner peripheral wall at the top edge of the base of the base, thereby at least partially surrounding the inner peripheral wall, and the outer peripheral wall extends downward from the top edge to the bottom edge, and the bottom edge is lower in height than the horizontal wall.

[0080] According to the thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a base of the twelfth aspect is proposed, wherein (i) the base of the tool head receiver extends outward from the peripheral wall of the base of the base and includes the bottom edge flush with the bottom edge of the peripheral wall, and (ii) the at least two arms of the tool head receiver each include the bottom edge flush with the bottom edge of the base of the base.

[0081] According to the fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a base of any one of the twelfth to thirteenth aspects is provided, wherein the tool head receiver connector includes: (i) a base extending outward from the peripheral wall of the base of the base; and (ii) a protrusion extending upward from the base of the tool head receiver, the protrusion being formed to be detachably connected to the tool head receiver.

[0082] According to the fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a base of the fourteenth aspect is proposed, wherein the tool head receiver connector includes: (i) a base extending outward from the peripheral wall; and (ii) a protrusion extending upward from the base of the tool head receiver, the protrusion being formed to be detachably connected to the tool head receiver.

[0083] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided the base of the fifteenth aspect, wherein the base of the tool bit receiver includes a receiver that is detachably coupled to the protrusion of the tool bit receiver connector.

[0084] According to the seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, a base for a suction cleaner comprises: (a) a base comprising a receiving seat and a plurality of vents in fluid communication with the receiving seat; and (b) a tool head cleaning tray, wherein the tool head cleaning tray is capable of being inserted into the receiving seat of the base when the tool head cleaning tray is not in use, and at least partially withdrawn from the receiving seat of the base during use to clean the tool head of the suction cleaner, the tool head cleaning tray comprising: a liquid reservoir for cleaning liquid and debris loosened from the tool head; and a protrusion for helping to loosen the debris from the tool head.

[0085] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided the base of the seventeenth aspect, wherein when the tool head cleaning tray is inserted into the receiving seat of the base, the vent hole is arranged above the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray.

[0086] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a base according to any one of aspects seventeen to eighteen is provided, wherein when the tool head cleaning tray is inserted into the receiving seat of the base, the vent hole is positioned to allow residual moisture in the reservoir to evaporate from the reservoir through the vent hole.

[0087] According to the twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a base of any one of aspects seventeen to nineteen, wherein (i) the base further comprises a horizontal wall positioned to receive a suction cleaner thereon, (ii) the vent hole passes through the horizontal wall, and (iii) when the tool head cleaning tray is inserted into the receiving portion of the base during non-use of the tool head cleaning tray, the horizontal wall is disposed above the liquid reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray.

[0088] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the construction of the disclosed and other components described is not limited to any specific material. Unless otherwise described herein, other exemplary embodiments of the disclosed invention disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials.

[0089] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms, connected, etc.) generally refers to the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be fixed in nature or removable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Unless otherwise specified, such joining may be permanent in nature or removable or releasable in nature.

[0090] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the present disclosure, as shown in the exemplary embodiments, are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovation have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that numerous modifications are possible (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape, and proportions of various elements, parameter values, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the described subject matter. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed from multiple parts, or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of interfaces may be reversed or otherwise altered, the structure and / or length or width of components or connectors or other elements of the system may be altered, and the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between elements may be changed. It should be noted that the elements and / or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovation. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0091] It should be understood that any described process or steps within a described process can be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure.The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A base for a suction cleaner, comprising: A base, the base comprising: a horizontal wall presenting a top surface having a perimeter; and an inner peripheral wall extending upward from at least a portion of the top surface of the horizontal wall, the inner peripheral wall and the horizontal wall being configured to receive a base of an extractor cleaner, wherein the top surface of the horizontal wall faces the base of the extractor cleaner and the inner peripheral wall at least partially surrounds the base of the extractor cleaner; and A tool head cleaning tray, the tool head cleaning tray comprising: a bottom wall and one or more side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray to define a reservoir for a cleaning fluid, a protrusion extending upward from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray, an insertion position in which the tool head cleaning tray is inserted into a receptacle of the base of the chassis, and A withdrawal position, in which the tool head cleaning tray is at least partially withdrawn from the receiving seat of the base of the base, and the tool head cleaning tray can be selectively manipulated to the insertion position and the withdrawal position, from the insertion position and the withdrawal position, and between the insertion position and the withdrawal position.

2. The base according to claim 1, wherein The horizontal wall of the base of the mount includes a plurality of vent holes therethrough, and In the inserted position, the reservoir of the tool bit cleaning tray is disposed below and exposed to the plurality of vents.

3. The base according to claim 1, wherein The inner peripheral wall of the base of the base includes a discontinuity, and The tool bit cleaning tray includes a handle having an inwardly facing surface that fills the discontinuity and is flush with the inner peripheral wall of the base of the chassis adjacent the discontinuity when the tool bit cleaning tray is in the inserted position.

4. The base according to claim 1, wherein The base of the chassis further comprises: a pair of side walls facing each other, and a rear wall, the rear wall being orthogonal to and adjacent to the pair of side walls, and In the inserted position, the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray is disposed forward of the rear wall of the base of the pedestal, sandwiched between the pair of side walls of the base of the pedestal, and below the horizontal wall of the base of the pedestal.

5. The base according to claim 4, wherein Each of the pair of side walls of the base of the chassis includes a track system, and The tool head cleaning tray includes a protrusion that extends outward from a side surface of the tool head cleaning tray and cooperates with the rail system to guide the tool head cleaning tray to be manipulated to the insertion position and the withdrawal position, from the insertion position and the withdrawal position, and between the insertion position and the withdrawal position.

6. The base according to claim 1, wherein The base of the base also includes an outer peripheral wall that is connected to the inner peripheral wall at a top edge of the base of the base so as to at least partially surround the inner peripheral wall, and the outer peripheral wall extends downward from the top edge to a bottom edge that is lower in height than the horizontal wall.

7. The base according to claim 6, wherein The peripheral wall of the base of the base includes a discontinuity, and The tool head cleaning tray also includes a handle having an outwardly facing surface that fills the discontinuity and is flush with the peripheral wall of the base of the chassis adjacent the discontinuity when the tool head cleaning tray is in the inserted position.

8. The base according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: A tool bit receiver is disposed outwardly relative to the inner peripheral wall, the tool bit receiver being configured to selectively receive a tool bit for storage, the tool bit receiver being selectively removable from the base portion of the chassis.

9. The base according to claim 8, wherein The base of the chassis further comprises: an outer peripheral wall joined to the inner peripheral wall at a top edge of the base of the seat so as to at least partially surround the inner peripheral wall, the outer peripheral wall extending downwardly from the top edge to a bottom edge that is lower in height than the horizontal wall; as well as A tool bit receiver connector extends outwardly from the peripheral wall flush with the bottom edge, the tool bit receiver connector being configured to selectively receive the tool bit receiver.

10. The base according to claim 8, wherein The tool head receiving member includes a base portion extending outwardly relative to the inner peripheral wall of the base portion of the base, and At least two arms extend outwardly from the base of the tool bit receiver, each of the at least two arms terminating in a protrusion extending upwardly and configured to receive a tool bit for storage.

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