Liquid removal device with absorber drum and related methods

Abstract

A liquid removal device (100) for removing liquid from a surface (10). The liquid removal device (100) includes a chassis (122) that is rotatably coupled with an absorber drum (102) and an extractor drum (110). An absorbent layer (106) is positioned on an outer drum surface of the absorbent drum (102). The extractor drum (110) includes a reservoir (116) configured to retain liquid absorbed from the surface (10), and a plurality of apertures (118, 120) defined by an outer extractor surface in fluid communication with the reservoir (116). The extractor drum (110) is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, a first portion (118) of the plurality of apertures is in contact with the absorber layer (106). In the second position, the first portion (118) of the plurality of holes is not in contact with the absorber layer (106).

Description

(19) State Intellectual Property Office (12) Invention Patent Application (10) Application Publication Number (43) Application Publication Date (21) Application Number 202610503208.8 (22) Application Date 2021.07.14 (30) Priority Data 63 / 051,439 2020.07.14 US 63 / 164,062 2021.03.22 US 63 / 214,402 2021.06.24 US (62) Divisional Application Data 202180047880.6 2021.07.14 (71) Applicant Cleveland Clyde, LLC Address Pontevedra Beach, Florida, USA (72) Inventor Justin Stewart (74) Patent Agency Beijing Gaowo Law Firm 11569 Patent Attorney Yao Lina (51) Int.Cl. A47L 11 / 29 (2006.01) A47L 11 / 40 (2006.01) A47L 11 / 292 (2006.01) (54) Title of Invention Liquid Removal Apparatus with Absorber Roller and Related Method (57) Abstract A liquid removal apparatus (100) for removing liquid from a surface (10). The liquid removal apparatus (100) includes a chassis (122) rotatably connected to an absorber roller (102) and an extractor roller (110). An absorbent layer (106) is positioned on the outer roller surface of the absorber roller (102). The extractor roller (110) includes a reservoir (116) configured to retain liquid absorbed from the surface (10), and a plurality of holes (118, 120) defined by an outer extractor surface in fluid communication with the reservoir (116). The extractor roller (110) is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, a first portion (118) of the plurality of holes is in contact with the absorbent layer (106). In the second position, the first portion (118) of the plurality of holes is not in contact with the absorbent layer (106). Claims 2 pages Description 7 pages Drawings 8 pages CN 122056530 A 2026.05.19 CN 1 22 05 65 30 A 1. A liquid removal apparatus comprising: a housing absorber roller configured to absorb liquid from a surface; and an extractor roller rotatably coupled to the housing, the extractor roller including a reservoir configured to retain liquid absorbed from the absorber roller. 2. The liquid removal apparatus of claim 1, wherein the extractor roller further comprises an outer extractor surface, and wherein a plurality of holes defined by the outer extractor surface are in fluid communication with the reservoir.3. The liquid removal device of claim 2, wherein the extractor roller is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, at least a first portion of the plurality of holes is in contact with the absorber roller, and wherein, when the extractor roller is in the first position, liquid in the lower part of the reservoir is not discharged from the reservoir. 4. The liquid removal device of claim 3, wherein, in the first position, when the extractor roller is in the second position, a first height of a second portion of the plurality of holes is higher than a second height of the second portion. 5. The liquid removal device of claim 3, wherein, when the extractor roller moves from the first position to the second position, the second portion of the plurality of holes rotates toward the surface, causing the liquid to be forced downwards under gravity and discharged from the extractor roller. 6. The liquid removal device of claim 3, wherein, when the liquid removal device is pushed in a rearward direction, the extractor roller rotates from the first position to the second position, causing liquid to be released from the reservoir. 7. The liquid removal apparatus of claim 1, wherein the housing defines an interior, wherein the extractor roller and the absorber roller are positioned within the interior of the housing. 8. The liquid removal apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an elastic device for coupling the extractor roller to the housing, wherein the elastic device biases the extractor roller toward the absorber roller, and wherein the elastic device allows the extractor roller to move away from the absorber roller to allow debris to pass between the extractor roller and the absorber roller. 9. The liquid removal apparatus of claim 8, further comprising an adjustable support for coupling the elastic device to the housing, wherein the adjustable support is movable to allow the elastic device to be selected between a first tension and a second tension. 10. The liquid removal apparatus of claim 1, wherein the absorber roller includes an absorbent layer, and wherein the absorbent layer is wound in a helical configuration around the absorber roller, the absorbent layer including a first end and a second end, the first end of the absorbent layer being coupled to a first end of the absorber roller, and the second end of the absorbent layer being coupled to a second end of the absorber roller. 11. The liquid removal apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a tension mechanism connecting the second end of the absorbent layer to the absorber drum, wherein the tension mechanism is configured to compensate for elongation of the absorbent layer. 12. The liquid removal apparatus of claim 11, wherein the tension mechanism has a first tension when the absorbent layer has a first length, and has a second tension lower than the first tension when the absorbent layer has a second length longer than the first length.13. The liquid removal apparatus of claim 3, wherein a first portion of the plurality of holes is in a first radial quadrant of the extractor roller, and a second portion of the plurality of holes is in a relative radial quadrant of the extractor roller. 14. The liquid removal apparatus of claim 1, wherein the surface is a motion field. Claims 1 / 2 Page 2 CN 122056530 A 15. A method of using the liquid removal apparatus of claim 1, the method comprising: absorbing liquid from the surface by moving the absorber roller along a first direction on the surface; and extracting liquid from the absorbent layer into a reservoir of the extractor roller by at least a first portion of the plurality of holes defined by the outer extractor surface of the extractor roller. 16. The method of claim 15, further comprising discharging liquid from the extractor roller by moving the absorber roller along a second direction. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein discharging liquid from the extractor roller comprises moving the extractor roller from a first position to a second position such that a second portion of the plurality of holes is rotated toward the surface, causing the liquid to be forced downward under gravity and discharged from the extractor roller. 18. The method of claim 15, wherein an absorbent layer is wound in a helical configuration around the absorber roller, the absorbent layer including a first end and a second end, the first end of the absorbent layer being coupled to a first end of the absorber roller, and the liquid removal device further comprising a tension mechanism coupling the second end of the absorbent layer to the absorber roller, the method further comprising compensating for elongation of the absorbent layer by adjusting the tension of the tension mechanism. 19. The method of any one of claims 15, wherein the liquid removal device further comprises an elastic device coupling the extractor roller to the housing, wherein the elastic device biases the extractor roller toward the absorber roller, the method further comprising adjusting the tension of the elastic device to change the distance between the absorber roller and the extractor roller. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the liquid removal device further comprises an adjustable bracket connecting the elastic device to the housing, and the adjustment of the tension of the elastic device comprises moving the adjustable bracket between a first position and a second position, wherein the tension of the elastic device is different in the first position and the second position. Claims 2 / 2 Page 3 CN 122056530 A Liquid Removal Device and Related Method with Absorber Roller

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an earlier application filed on July 14, 2021, application number 202180047880.6, entitled "Liquid Removal Device and Related Method with Absorber Roller".

[0002] The entire contents of the original filing of PCT / US2021 / 041593 (including the drawings) are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to the field of liquid removal apparatus, and more particularly to liquid removal apparatus and related methods for surfaces. Background Art

[0004] There is a need for improved apparatus and methods for drying surfaces such as sports fields. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Generally, a liquid removal apparatus is provided for removing liquid from a surface. The liquid removal apparatus may include an absorber roller that rolls over the surface and absorbs liquid from the surface. The liquid removal apparatus may include an extractor roller that includes a plurality of openings or slots adjacent to the absorber roller, such that a smooth surface of the extractor roller and / or the plurality of openings or slots press against the absorber roller, and extrudes liquid from the absorbent material and allows the absorbed liquid to drain through the plurality of openings or slots into the extractor roller or reservoir.

[0006] In an embodiment, a liquid removal device includes a chassis, an absorber roller, and an extractor roller; the chassis includes a handle; the absorber roller is rotatably connected to the chassis; and the extractor roller is rotatably connected to the chassis. The absorber roller includes a roller having an outer roller surface, wherein an absorbent layer is positioned on the outer roller surface of the absorber roller, and the absorber roller is configured to absorb liquid from the surface. The extractor roller includes a reservoir configured to retain liquid absorbed from the surface, an outer extractor surface, and a plurality of holes defined by the outer extractor surface in fluid communication with the reservoir. The extractor roller is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, at least a first portion of the plurality of holes is in contact with the absorbent layer. In the second position, the first portion of the plurality of holes is not in contact with the absorbent layer.

[0007] In an embodiment, a method of removing liquid from a surface includes moving the liquid removal device on the surface. The liquid removal device includes an absorber drum and an extractor drum, the extractor drum including a reservoir and a plurality of holes in fluid communication with the reservoir, wherein the absorber drum absorbs the liquid from the surface. The method further includes extracting liquid from the absorber drum into the reservoir of the extractor drum through at least a first portion of the plurality of holes. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] This disclosure will be more readily understood through a detailed description of some exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings:

[0009] FIG1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the liquid removal device.

[0010] FIG2 is an exploded view of the liquid removal device of FIG1. ​​

[0011] FIG3 is a top view of the liquid removal device of FIG1. ​​

[0012] FIG4 is a front view of the liquid removal device of FIG1. ​​Specification 1 / 7 pages 4 CN 122056530 A

[0013] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid removal device of Figure 1 in the discharge position, with the handle removed.

[0014] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid removal device of Figure 1 in the onboarding position, with the handle removed.

[0015] Figure 7 is a bottom view of the automatic tension mechanism of the liquid removal device of Figure 1.

[0016] Figure 8 is a rear perspective view of the adjustable bracket of the liquid removal device of Figure 1, with the handle removed.

[0017] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the adjustable bracket of the liquid removal device of Figure 1, with the handle removed. Detailed Description

[0018] Various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described to provide a general understanding of the principles of the structure, function, and use of the devices, systems, methods, and processes disclosed herein. One or more examples of these non-limiting embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems and methods specifically described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting embodiments. Features illustrated or described in conjunction with one non-limiting embodiment may be combined with features of other non-limiting embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure. The same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout the document, and the base 100 reference numeral is used to indicate similar elements in alternative embodiments.

[0019] References to “different embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “some exemplary embodiments,” “one exemplary embodiment,” or “one embodiment” throughout this specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with any embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “some exemplary embodiments,” “one exemplary embodiment,” or “in an embodiment” appearing throughout the specification do not necessarily refer to the same implementation. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic may be combined in any suitable manner.

[0020] Referring to Figures 1-9, in an embodiment, the liquid removal device 100 can be used to remove liquid from surface 10. For example, the liquid removal device can be used to remove water, but it can also be used to remove other liquids, such as hazardous liquids (e.g., fuels, oils, liquid chemicals). For example, the liquid removal device 100 can be used to remove water from sports fields (such as tennis courts, pickleball courts, and / or basketball courts), race tracks, construction sites, warehouses, or pool decks. It should be understood that the liquid removal device 100 can be used in other applications.

[0021] The liquid removal device 100 shown in FIG1 illustratively includes an absorber roller 102 that rolls on and absorbs liquid from the surface 10. The absorber roller 102 may include a circular cross-section and includes a tubular frame.104, a liquid absorption layer 106 supported by the outer radial surface of the tubular frame 104, and a wheel axle 108 extending longitudinally and supporting the tubular frame 104 (FIG. 2). Suitable materials for the tubular frame 104 include, but are not limited to, polymeric plastics, metals, PVC or phenolic resin tubing. Any fluid-absorbing material can be used for the liquid absorption layer, adapted to the specific liquid to be absorbed and the surface where the liquid is present. In different embodiments, the liquid absorption layer includes foam materials, synthetic fiber materials (such as polyester and nylon materials), microfiber materials, wool materials, wool-polyester blends, or combinations thereof. The absorber roller 102 may have a uniform outer diameter or a variable or patterned surface suitable for different applications. The liquid absorption layer 106 may have uniform layering or may have variable layering suitable for a specific application.

[0022] The liquid removal device 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes an extractor roller 110 adjacent to the absorber roller 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the extractor roller 110 has a circular cross-section and is hollow. In other embodiments, the extractor roller 110 may have other shapes and abut the absorber roller at any suitable radial location. The extractor roller 110 may have circular sidewalls 112 having an outer surface and a shaft 114 (FIG. 2). In embodiments, the sidewalls 112 may extend between end walls 115, which may have the same or larger cross-sectional area as the sidewalls 112. The end walls 115 may be removable to allow cleaning of the hollow interior, which can collect small debris (e.g., dirt) during use. Suitable materials for the extractor roller 110 may include, but are not limited to, polymeric plastic materials such as polyvinyl chloride, aluminum, or another material with sufficient rigidity and resistance to water, chemicals, static electricity, or fuel. The extractor roller 110 may define an interior including an extractor roller fluid reservoir 116. The extractor roller fluid reservoir 116 may be impermeable to liquid or otherwise designed to prevent leakage of water that may accumulate below the first set of holes 118 and the second set of holes 120. The first set of holes 118 is aligned with and communicates with the fluid reservoir 116 of the extractor roller 110, allowing fluid to flow through the holes 118 into the fluid reservoir 116 for storage.

[0023] In some embodiments, the second set of holes 120 may be configured to release liquid from the internal extractor roller fluid reservoir 116 of the extractor roller 110. While the illustrated embodiment includes two sets of holes 118 and holes 120, the technology is not limited thereto. The shape, size, and / or number of holes 118 and holes 120 may vary. For example, the shape, size, and / or number of holes may vary between sets of holes. In one embodiment, the holes may be arranged linearly (as shown in FIG. 4) or arranged in adjacent staggered lines. For example, multipleEach group of holes may include linearly oriented holes, spaced-apart holes, offset holes, or any other configuration. Each hole may be circular, hemispherical, polygonal, or any other suitable shape. The holes may be openings of any shape, size, or dimensional within the extractor roller and may be suitably positioned relative to the absorber roller 102. In embodiments, each hole in this group of holes 118, holes 120 may be in different radial quadrants of the extractor roller, for example, in opposite radial quadrants.

[0024] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the liquid removal device 100 illustratively includes a chassis 122 that holds the shaft 108 of the absorber roller 102 and the shaft 114 of the extractor roller 110. The chassis 122 may include a housing 124 that may include, for example, two side supports 126, side supports 128 that support the ends of these shafts. These shafts may be rotatably coupled to the side supports 126, side supports 128 in any suitable manner. For example, side supports 126 and 128 may include openings 130 and 132 for the shaft 108 of the absorber roller 102 and the shaft 114 of the extractor roller 110. The opening 132 for the extractor roller shaft 114 allows relative movement between the shaft 114 and the chassis 122. For example, the opening 132 may be elliptical to allow the extractor roller 110 to shift for passage when debris encounters an abutting roller, preventing the absorber roller 102 from rotationally locking. In an embodiment, the chassis 122 includes a plurality of support beams 134 connecting the side supports 126 and 128. The outer diameter of the absorber roller 102 may extend a distance below the chassis 122 such that the liquid absorption layer 106 of the absorber roller 102 contacts the ground or other surface and can roll along the ground or other surface. The absorber roller 102 may function as a cylindrical wheel, thereby allowing the liquid removal device 100 to be repositioned on a desired surface. It should be understood that the housing 124 may also enclose device components for aesthetic or protective reasons. For example, the housing 124 may also include a cover (not shown) that encloses the absorber roller 102 and extractor roller 110, as well as other components, for aesthetic and protective purposes against exposure to natural elements such as sunlight. The housing or cover may be modified to hold additional tools, such as brooms or rubber rollers, may include signage (such as digital signage), and may be used to support solar panels for motorized units.

[0025] The liquid removal device 100 illustratively includes a handle 136 coupled to the chassis 122 for user operation. As will be appreciated, the user uses the handle 136 to push the liquid removal device 100 along a surface, thereby keeping the absorber roller 102 in contact with the liquid-covered surface to remove liquid from that surface. Other forms of operation, such as motorized or automated operation, are contemplated.

[0026] The outer surfaces of the sidewalls 112 can act as wheels to allow the extractor roller 110 to rotate in places that are operationally beneficial but not used for transport or repositioning. These outer surfaces of the sidewalls may have, for example, a polyurethane coating or an additional coating having a higher coefficient of friction than the material of these sidewalls. In some embodiments, the extractor roller 110 may include a plurality of wheels 138. The liquid removal device 100 schematically includes four wheels 138 connected at diagonal ends of the chassis 122 to the lowermost part of the chassis to allow the liquid removal device 100 to be transported over surfaces where drying is not required and to overcome obstacles such as curbs or sidewalks. In an embodiment, when liquid absorption is desired, the liquid removal device 100 operates on the absorber roller 102, where the rear wheels 138 can be engaged to rotate 180 degrees to begin drying the next sheet. Front wheels 138 may be provided to overcome obstacles such as curbs when transporting the device. It should be understood that the wheel 138 or other stabilizing feature may contact the ground or surface when the device is used to absorb fluid from the ground or surface. When removing liquid from the surface, the wheel 138 may remain away from the surface during the extraction phase. To engage the wheel 138, the handle 136 may be raised or tilted such that the wheel 138 contacts the surface or ground. Moving the liquid removal device 100 in this raised, wheel-engaged position will cause the wheel 138 to rotate, and thus cause the extractor drum 110 to rotate from a first onboarding position to a second discharge position. In the first onboarding position, the first set of orifices 118 (Figures 4 and 6) is adjacent to the absorber drum 102, and the second set of orifices 120 is opposite the first set of orifices 118 and parallel to the ground. In this configuration, liquid in the extractor drum fluid reservoir 116 will not drain from the second set of orifices 120. In the second discharge position, the second set of orifices 120 may be rotated such that they are generally facing downwards toward the surface or ground. In this configuration, liquid can be automatically discharged from the extractor roller fluid reservoir 116 through the second set of holes 120 due to gravity. Furthermore, the user can raise or lower the handle 136 to engage the front or rear transfer wheel 138 to transfer the device over surfaces where drying is not required. A "feeler" wheel can be used to attach to the liquid removal device 100 to aid in the stability of the handle 136 during operation.

[0027] In some embodiments, the extractor roller 110 will not include wheels, and the outer surface of the sidewall 112 will not extend beyond the diameter of the extractor roller 110 body itself. After the liquid has been onboarded and discharge is required, the handle 136 can be pulled back towards the user to cause the absorber roller 102 to rotate in the opposite direction to its normal onboard rotation. By causing the absorber roller 102 to rotate in the opposite direction, liquid absorption layer 106 of the absorber roller 102 and the extractor roller 110 are connected by means of...Due to the coefficient of friction, the extractor roller 110 will rotate from the upside-down position to the discharge position until the extractor rotation limiting pin 140 (FIG. 2) engages the extractor rotation limiting discharge stop 142 (FIG. 2). In an embodiment, the two ends of the roller 110 may include pin 140 and stop 142. As the extractor roller 110 rotates to the discharge position, liquid is then allowed to escape from the second set of holes 120 that have been rotated downward toward the surface or ground.

[0028] To ensure proper placement of the extractor roller 110, the liquid removal device 100 illustratively includes at least one elastic device 144 (e.g., a coil spring, rubber band, toilet rope, or any suitable tension-generating device) coupled between the extractor roller 110 and the chassis 122. The elastic device 144 may be configured to force the absorber roller 102 and the extractor roller 110 into contact with each other with a sufficient coefficient of friction to draw water from the absorber roller 102 into the extractor roller 110. Additionally, if the absorber roller 102 picks up debris (such as rocks, twigs, gravel, leaves, debris, etc.) larger than the first set of holes 118 from the surface 10, the elastic device 144 allows the extractor roller 110 to slightly shift, causing the debris to fall off the device or be easily manually accessed and removed by the user. In some embodiments, a cleaning device is envisioned that facilitates the automatic removal and capture of debris as the embodiment rolls over the surface, maintaining the cleanliness of the liquid absorbent material. In one form, the elastic device may be attached to a sliding sleeve of a low-friction coefficient material surrounding the extractor roller shaft or absorber roller shaft, the sliding sleeve also being made of a low-friction coefficient material. This configuration acts as a bearing and allows high elastic tension to be applied to the extractor roller shaft or absorber roller shaft while still allowing the extractor roller to rotate to and from the upturned and discharge positions.

[0029] In various embodiments, the extractor roller 110 is movable between a first upturn position (FIG. 5) and a second discharge position (FIG. 6). In the first upturn position, the first set of holes 118 (axis a1) is adjacent to the absorber roller 102, and the second set of holes 120 (axis a2) faces away from this surface. In other words, liquid in the extractor roller fluid reservoir 116 will not be discharged from the second set of holes 120 due to gravity in the first upturn position (unless the liquid level rises above holes 118 or 120). For example, liquid in the lower half of the reservoir 116 will not be discharged from the reservoir through holes 120. In the second discharge position, the second set of holes 120 faces lower relative to the first position, and liquid can be automatically discharged from the extractor roller fluid reservoir 116 through the second set of holes 120 (e.g., due to gravity). In an embodiment, the liquid removal device 100 may be configured for use on pages 4 / 7 of the specification, 7 CN.122056530 A The extractor roller 110 is moved to the discharge position by moving the liquid removal device 100 backward on the surface. Due to the rotation direction of the absorber roller 102, the rotation of the extractor roller 110 relative to the upturn position and the discharge position occurs easily and naturally. When the liquid removal device 100 is pushed forward by the handle, the extractor roller 110 rotates to the upturn position due to the force applied by the elastic device pressing the extractor roller into the liquid absorption layer 106, and the extractor roller 110 rotates to the upturn position until the extractor rotation limiting pin reaches the extractor rotation limiting upturn stop block.

[0030] When the liquid removal device is pulled backward by the handle, the extractor roller 110 rotates to the discharge position due to the force applied by the elastic device pressing the extractor roller into the liquid absorption layer 106, and the extractor roller 110 rotates to the discharge position until the extractor rotation limiting pin reaches the extractor rotation limiting discharge stop block. For example, when the liquid removal device 100 is moved backward, the extractor roller 110 may rotate due to friction between itself and the absorber roller 102, thereby causing liquid to drain from the extractor roller fluid reservoir 116. The distance by which the liquid removal device 100 travels backward to move the extractor roller 110 to the discharge position can vary. In different embodiments, this distance may range from 0.1 to 20 inches, 1 to 10 inches, 1 to 5 inches, or 5 to 10 inches. In some embodiments, the liquid removal device 100 may include a selectively engageable safety mechanism to prevent unintentional movement of the extractor roller 110 to the discharge position. For example, a trigger for the safety mechanism may be positioned on the handle. When engaged, the safety mechanism prevents backward movement of the liquid removal device 100 from causing rotation of the extractor roller 110. When disengaged, the safety mechanism allows backward movement of the liquid removal device 100 to allow rotation of the extractor roller 110. The user can disengage the safety mechanism when ready to drain liquid from the extractor roller 110.

[0031] In use, when the liquid removal device 100 is pushed along a surface to remove liquid, the absorber drum 102 rotates to pick up fluid from the surface. In one embodiment, the extractor drum fluid reservoir 116 remains stationary and receives fluid from the absorber drum 102 via a first set of orifices 118. Rotation of the extractor drum fluid reservoir 116 can be prevented by an extractor rotation limiting pin 140 engaging with a stop 142. At least a portion or all of the first set of orifices 118 may abut or otherwise engage the rotating absorber drum 102 at a tangent or point of engagement between the absorber drum and the extractor drum. As the absorber drum 102 rotates, the liquid absorption layer 106 may be pushed against the extractor by a force applied by the elastic device 144.On the outer surface of the roller 110, the force applied by the elastic device 144 presses or squeezes the liquid absorption layer 106, thereby coating the liquid from the liquid absorption layer 106 and into the properly aligned first set of holes 118, so that the liquid is then collected in the extractor roller fluid reservoir 116. The position of the interface between the absorber roller 102 and the extractor roller 110 can vary. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the extractor roller 110 is adjacent to the absorber roller 102 at a front radial position. It is clear that the position of this interface can be adjusted by using what is operationally advantageous.

[0032] To discharge liquid from the extractor roller fluid reservoir 116, the user pulls the handle 136 back to rotate the absorber roller 102 clockwise and in the opposite direction to the normal upward rotation. The action of rotating the absorber roller 102 backwards can correspondingly rotate the extractor roller 110 counterclockwise until it reaches the rotation stop caused by the extraction rotation limiter pin 140 engaging the extraction rotation limiter discharge stop 142. The extractor roller 110, rotating in the opposite direction to the absorber roller 102, can also move the second set of holes 120 such that they are rotated to point towards the ground. When the second set of holes 120 is thus positioned, liquid stored in the extractor roller fluid reservoir 116 is allowed to escape and be discharged by gravity and liquid momentum. After discharge is complete, the handle 136 is then pushed away from the user in the forward direction, and the system returns to the water-overturning configuration as described herein. It should be understood that safety mechanisms as described herein may be associated with the extractor roller 110 or the liquid removal device 100 to prevent fluid from being discharged in the opposite direction until the operator desires it.

[0033] Depending on the application and material used for the liquid absorption layer, the liquid absorption layer may stretch during use. Example: Page 5 / 7 of the specification, CN 122056530 A. For example, squeezing the extractor roller of the absorber roller can cause the liquid absorption layer to stretch and become loose in place. In some embodiments, the liquid removal device can be configured to maintain tension on the liquid absorption layer during use. Referring to Figures 3 and 7, the liquid absorption layer 106 can be wound around the absorber roller 102. The absorber roller 102 may include a dynamic tension mechanism for maintaining tension on the liquid absorption layer 106 and preventing the liquid absorption layer 106 from loosening.

[0034] As shown in Figure 7, the dynamic tension mechanism may include a spring or other tension device, as further described below. In the illustrated embodiment, a first end 106a of the liquid absorption layer 106 may be anchored to a first end 102a of the absorber roller 102, and a second end 106b of the liquid absorption layer 106 may be coupled to a second end 102b of the absorber roller 102 under tension. The absorber roller 102 can be configured such that the connection between the first end 106a and the second end 106b of the liquid absorption layer 106 is on the outer radial surface.The radially inner side. In this configuration, the first end 106a and the second end 106b, as well as the components connecting them to the absorber roller 102, do not contact surfaces (e.g., the ground) during operation of the liquid removal device 100. For example, the sidewall 112 of the absorber roller 102 may include cutouts 146a and 146b. The first end wall 115a and the second end wall 115b of the extractor roller 110 may include corresponding cutouts 148a and 148b leading to cutouts 146a and 146b (FIGs 3 and 7). The first end 106a of the liquid absorption layer 106 and the first end 102a of the absorber roller 102 may include corresponding connectors. For example, the first end 106a of the liquid absorption layer 106 may include a loop that can be removably coupled to a pin positioned in cutout 148a. The first end 106a of the liquid absorption layer 106 may extend through cutout 146a and into cutout 148a to engage with the pin.

[0035] Referring to FIG7, in an embodiment, the second end 106b of the liquid absorption layer 106 may be removably coupled to the second end 102b of the absorber roller 102 using a spring 150. The spring 150 dynamically tensions the liquid absorption layer 106. The spring 150 may be removably coupled to at least one of the second end 106b of the liquid absorption layer 106 and the absorber roller 102. In an example, the second end 106b of the liquid absorption layer 106 may include a connector (such as a grommets) that may be selectively coupled to the first end 150a of the spring 150. The second end 150b of the spring 150 may be coupled to the absorber roller 102. For example, the end wall 115b of the absorber roller 102 may include a connecting point (such as a hook 152) that may be selectively coupled to the second end 150b of the spring 150. The liquid absorption layer 106 is wound or wrapped around the absorber roller 102, such that the pressure applied by the extractor roller 110 is distributed toward the second end 106b of the liquid absorption layer 106. In other words, if the material is stretched, it is stretched in the direction toward the spring 150. The spring 150, which applies tension to the second end 106b of the liquid absorption layer 106, can compensate for whether the material is stretched.

[0036] In use, when the liquid removal device 100 is rolled along a surface to remove liquid, the absorber roller 102 rotates while the extractor roller 110 is stationary. As the absorber roller 102 rotates, the liquid absorption layer 106 is pressed against the extractor roller 110. If the liquid absorption layer 106 is stretched, the rotational motion "pushes" the material from the anchoring end to the tension end in a helical motion. Because the second end of the material is under dynamic tension, the stretching of the material does not cause the material to loosen.

[0037] In some embodiments, the tension or strain of the helical spring 144 or other elastic device may be adjustable.Adjustable tension allows the absorber roller 102 and extractor roller 110 to be separated without disengaging the coil spring 144. Referring to Figures 8 and 9, in another embodiment, the liquid removal device 100 includes an adjustable bracket 154 for adjusting the tension on the coil spring 144. The bracket 154 is movably coupled to the chassis 122 and defines a handle 156. The bracket 154 can be coupled to the coil spring 144. For example, the coil spring 144 can be removably coupled to the bracket 154 using an eyelet hook 158. The bracket 154 may have a notch 160. The notch 160 may define a channel 162 leading to one or more notches or recesses 164, which are configured to receive pins or fasteners (such as bolts 166). In one embodiment, the bolt 166 may engage the chassis 122 with the bracket 154. The bracket 154 may have at least two locked positions relative to the chassis 122. Each notch or recess 164 defines the position of the bracket 154. For example, when the support 154 is in the first locked position, the coil spring 144 can be tensioned, causing the extractor roller 110 to contact the absorber roller 102. When the support 154 is in the second locked position, the coil spring 144 can have a lower tension, causing the extractor roller 110 to be spaced apart from the absorber roller 102. To move between the locked positions, the support 154 can be moved such that the bolt 166 slides out of one of the recesses 164, moves forward or backward in the channel 162, and moves into the other of the recesses 164. The channel 162 can extend beyond the recesses 164 and allow the support 154 to move to a configuration where the coil spring 144 is not under tension. There can be more than two locked positions. For example, multiple locked positions can allow the extractor roller 110 to be pressed against the absorber roller 102 under different tensions. Adjusting the force applied by the extractor roller 110 to the absorber roller 102 results in different amounts of force required to operate the liquid removal device 100. Therefore, the force required to operate the liquid removal device 100 can be adjusted based on application or user preference.

[0038] In some embodiments, a user can move one or both of the extractor roller 110 and the absorber roller 102 to a spaced-out configuration to allow the user to remove the liquid absorption layer 106 (e.g., to replace old material). For example, the user can use the adjustable bracket 154 to move the extractor roller 110 away from the absorber roller 102. The liquid absorption layer 106 can then be detached and unspooled from the absorber roller 102. A new liquid absorption layer 106 can then be installed on the absorber roller 102.

[0039] Advantageously, the liquid removal device disclosed herein provides an efficient and robust method for liquid removal. It should be understood that the width of the liquid removal device described herein can vary. In some embodiments, the liquid removal device...The width can be in the range of 1 ft to 10 ft, 2 ft to 4 ft, 6 inches to 12 inches, or have any other suitable size.

[0040] It is contemplated herein that the liquid removal device described herein can be used to apply or deliver fluids or materials in addition to or separately from the fluid absorption function. For example, the device can be modified to deliver surface coatings, such as topcoats, sealants, or varnishes. The liquid removal device can be manually propelled, motorized, remotely controlled, autonomous, or capable of operating in any mode.

[0041] In the various embodiments disclosed herein, a single component may be replaced by multiple components, and multiple components may be replaced by a single component to perform or multiple given functions. Such substitution is within the scope of the embodiments unless it would not work.

[0042] The above description of embodiments and examples has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of the forms described. Many modifications are possible in accordance with the above teachings. Some of these modifications have been discussed, and others will be understood by those skilled in the art. These embodiments were chosen and described in order to best illustrate the principles of different embodiments suitable for the particular use contemplated. Of course, this scope is not limited to the examples set forth herein, but can be applied in any number of applications and equivalent devices by those skilled in the art. Rather, the scope of the invention is thus defined by the appended claims. Instruction Manual 7 / 7 Page 10 CN 122056530 A Figure 1 Instruction Manual Appendix 1 / 8 Page 11 CN 122056530 A Figure 2 Instruction Manual Appendix 2 / 8 Page 12 CN 122056530 A Figure 3 Instruction Manual Appendix 3 / 8 Page 13 CN 122056530 A Figure 4 Figure 5 Instruction Manual Appendix 4 / 8 Page 14 CN 122056530 A Figure 6 Instruction Manual Appendix 5 / 8 Page 15 CN 122056530 A Figure 7 Instruction Manual Appendix 6 / 8 Page 16 CN 122056530 A Figure 8 Instruction Manual Appendix 7 / 8 Page 17 CN 122056530 A Figure 9 Instruction Manual Appendix 8 / 8 Page 18 CN 122056530 A Abstract A liquid removal device (100) is for removing a liquid from a surface (10). The liquid removal device (100) includes a chassis (122). rotationally coupled with an absorber drum(102) and an extractor drum (110). An absorbent layer (106) is positioned on an outer drum surface of the absorber drum (102). The extractor drum (110) includes a reservoir (116) configured to retain the liquid absorbed from the surface (10), and a plurality of apertures (118, 120) defined by an outer extractor surface in fluid communication with the reservoir (116). The extractor drum (110) is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, a first portion (118) of the plurality of apertures are in contact with the absorbent layer (106). In the second position, the first portion (118) of the plurality of apertures are not in contact with the absorbent layer (106).

Claims

1. A liquid removal device, the liquid removal device comprising: A housing absorber roller, the absorber roller being configured to absorb liquid from a surface; as well as An extractor roller, rotatably connected to the housing, includes a reservoir configured to retain liquid absorbed from the absorber roller.

2. The liquid removal device according to claim 1, wherein, The extractor roller also includes an outer extractor surface, and a plurality of holes defined by the outer extractor surface that are in fluid communication with the reservoir.

3. The liquid removal device according to claim 2, wherein, The extractor roller is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein, in the first position, at least a first portion of the plurality of holes is in contact with the absorber roller, and wherein, when the extractor roller is in the first position, liquid in the lower part of the reservoir is not discharged from the reservoir.

4. The liquid removal device according to claim 3, wherein, In the first position, when the extractor roller is in the second position, the first height of the second portion of the plurality of holes is higher than the second height of the second portion.

5. The liquid removal device according to claim 3, wherein, When the extractor roller moves from the first position to the second position, the second portion of the plurality of holes rotates toward the surface, causing the liquid to be forced downward under the action of gravity and discharged from the extractor roller.

6. The liquid removal device according to claim 3, wherein, When the liquid removal device is pushed in a rearward direction, the extractor roller rotates from the first position to the second position, causing the liquid to be released from the reservoir.

7. The liquid removal device according to claim 1, wherein, The housing defines an interior, wherein the extractor roller and the absorber roller are positioned within the interior of the housing.

8. The liquid removal apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an elastic device for connecting the extractor roller to the housing, wherein, The elastic device biases the extractor roller toward the absorber roller, and wherein the elastic device allows the extractor roller to move away from the absorber roller to allow debris to pass between the extractor roller and the absorber roller.

9. The liquid removal device according to claim 8, further comprising an adjustable bracket connecting the elastic device to the housing, wherein, The adjustable bracket is movable to allow the elastic device to be selected between a first tension and a second tension.

10. The liquid removal apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The absorber roller includes an absorbent layer, wherein the absorbent layer is wound around the absorber roller in a helical configuration, the absorbent layer including a first end and a second end, the first end of the absorbent layer being connected to a first end of the absorber roller, and the second end of the absorbent layer being connected to a second end of the absorber roller.

11. The liquid removal apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a tension mechanism connecting the second end of the absorbent layer to the absorber drum, wherein, The tension mechanism is configured to compensate for the elongation of the absorbent layer.

12. The liquid removal apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, When the absorbent layer has a first length, the tension mechanism has a first tension, and when the absorbent layer has a second length longer than the first length, the tension mechanism has a second tension lower than the first tension.

13. The liquid removal apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The first portion of the plurality of holes is in a first radial quadrant of the extractor drum, and the second portion of the plurality of holes is in a relative radial quadrant of the extractor drum.

14. The liquid removal apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The surface in question is a sports field.

15. A method of using the liquid removal apparatus according to claim 1, the method comprising: Liquid is absorbed from the surface by moving the absorber roller along the first direction on the surface; as well as Liquid is extracted from the absorbent layer into the reservoir of the extractor drum through at least a first portion of a plurality of holes defined by the outer extractor surface of the extractor drum.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising discharging liquid from the extractor drum by moving the absorber drum in a second direction.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The discharge of liquid from the extractor roller includes moving the extractor roller from a first position to a second position such that the second portion of the plurality of holes is rotated toward the surface, causing the liquid to be forced downward under gravity and discharged from the extractor roller.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The absorbent layer is wound in a spiral configuration around the absorber drum. The absorbent layer includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the absorbent layer is connected to the first end of the absorber drum. The liquid removal device also includes a tension mechanism that connects the second end of the absorbent layer to the absorber drum. The method further includes compensating for the elongation of the absorbent layer by adjusting the tension of the tension mechanism.

19. The method according to any one of claims 15, wherein, The liquid removal device further includes an elastic device for connecting the extractor roller to the housing, wherein the elastic device biases the extractor roller toward the absorber roller, and the method further includes adjusting the tension of the elastic device to change the distance between the absorber roller and the extractor roller.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The liquid removal device further includes an adjustable bracket for connecting the elastic device to the housing, and adjusting the tension of the elastic device includes moving the adjustable bracket between a first position and a second position, wherein the tension of the elastic device is different in the first position and the second position.

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