Surface cleaner

Abstract

A surface cleaner comprising: a base and a fluid distribution system operable to deliver fluid to a surface to be cleaned, the fluid distribution system comprising a centrifugal pump comprising: a housing, the scroll compressor is provided with an inlet for sucking fluid, an outlet for discharging the fluid, a volute type scroll piece in fluid communication with the inlet, an expansion chamber communicated with the outlet, a throat-shaped part for connecting the volute type scroll piece with the expansion chamber in a fluid manner, and a seepage hole for connecting the expansion chamber with the volute type scroll piece in a fluid manner; and a pump impeller configured to rotate in the volute scroll to pump fluid from the inlet to the outlet through the throat and the expansion chamber, in which the fluid in the expansion chamber is separated from air in the expansion chamber and returned to the volute scroll through the bleed hole, thereby activating the centrifugal pump. The surface cleaner of the present disclosure avoids the need for external components to start the pump by having the self-suction centrifugal pump, thereby minimizing the packaging space within the surface cleaner.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese invention patent application "Surface Cleaner" with an application date of May 9, 2023, a priority date of May 13, 2022 and an application number of 202310519538.2. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a surface cleaner for cleaning a surface. Background Art

[0003] There are many types of surface cleaners, some of which may use suction and / or fluid to clean a surface. One type of surface cleaner is known as an upright cleaner. Some surface cleaners, including some upright cleaners, may be extraction cleaners that use a vacuum system to extract debris and / or fluid from the surface and a fluid delivery system to extract dirt from the surface. Summary of the invention

[0004] A surface cleaner with multiple improvements is disclosed herein. The surface cleaner may be, but is not limited to, a vertical extraction cleaner. The surface cleaner may be equipped to lift the agitator away from the surface to be cleaned in a specific mode. In an example, the surface cleaner may include a base configured to move on the surface to be cleaned. The base may include a base housing defining an agitator chamber, an agitator assembly contained in the agitator chamber, and an agitator lift rod, which is supported on the base housing and can be translated between a forward position and a rearward position relative to the base housing. The surface cleaner may include a ridge assembly for guiding the base on the surface to be cleaned. The ridge assembly may be pivotally connected to the base and can be pivoted between a first position and a second position relative to the base around a pivot axis. The agitator assembly may include an agitator support frame and a rotatable agitator rotatably supported on the agitator support frame. The ridge assembly may be configured to operatively engage the agitator lift rod and translate the agitator lift rod from a forward position to a rearward position when the ridge assembly pivots from the second position to the first position. The coupling mechanism can be fixed to the agitator support frame and positioned to pivot through the agitator lifting rod when the agitator lifting rod is translated to the rearward position, and the pivoting coupling mechanism raises the agitator support frame and the agitator fixed to the agitator support frame from a lowered position to a raised position, and the agitator is farther away from the surface to be cleaned in the raised position than in the lowered position.

[0005] The surface cleaner within the scope of the present disclosure may be equipped to prevent the drive belt from slacking when the agitator is lifted. For example, the surface cleaner may include a base configured to move on the surface to be cleaned, and the base may include a base housing defining an agitator chamber and an agitator assembly contained in the agitator chamber. The surface cleaner may include a ridge assembly for guiding the base on the surface to be cleaned. The ridge assembly may be pivotally connected to the base and may pivot between a first position and a second position relative to the base around a pivot axis. The first position may be relatively upright relative to the base, and the second position may be relatively inclined relative to the base. The agitator assembly may include an agitator support frame, a rotatable agitator rotatably supported on the agitator support frame, and a sprocket supported for rotating around the agitator axis with the rotatable agitator. When the ridge assembly pivots from the second position to the first position, the agitator support frame and the rotatable agitator supported on the agitator support frame may be lifted from a lowered position to an elevated position, wherein the rotatable agitator is further away from the surface to be cleaned in the elevated position than in the lowered position. The surface cleaner may include a drive assembly including a motor drive shaft and a belt that engages both the motor drive shaft and the sprocket for rotating the agitator about the agitator axis. A projection may extend from the base housing in the agitator chamber and may have a belt engagement surface. The belt may be spaced apart from the belt engagement surface when the agitator assembly is in the lowered position, and the belt may be disposed against the belt engagement surface when the agitator assembly is in the raised position. In some examples, the projection may cause the path of the belt to have the same length in both the lowered position and the raised position, so as to prevent slack while the tension in the belt remains constant.

[0006] A surface cleaner within the scope of the present disclosure may have a release button and a detent mechanism, which has a compact design and is configured to protect the internal chamber of the base housing from external debris and liquids, while releasably holding the ridge assembly in an upright position. For example, a surface cleaner may include: a base configured to move on a surface to be cleaned, the base including a base housing; and a ridge assembly for guiding the base on the surface to be cleaned. The ridge assembly may be pivotally connected to the base and may pivot relative to the base about a pivot axis between a first position and a second position. The first position may be relatively upright relative to the base, and the second position may be relatively inclined relative to the base. The detent mechanism may be configured to selectively hold the ridge assembly in a first position. The detent mechanism may include: a claw operatively fixed to a lower shell of the ridge assembly; a pivot arm pivotally fixed to the base housing; and a spring, when the ridge assembly is in the first position, the spring biases the pivot arm against the claw. The detent mechanism may also include a release button that may be mounted to the base housing and may press against the pivot arm to cause the pivot arm to move away from the claw and pivot against the spring, thereby releasing the pivot arm from the claw to allow the ridge assembly to pivot to the second position. With this configuration, the pivot arm may be completely contained within the base housing, and the opening for the release button may have a small footprint on the base housing.

[0007] A surface cleaner within the scope of the present disclosure may have a motor drive assembly that is compact in size but still manages the load and allows access to the belt, which may be necessary, for example, to replace the belt. The surface cleaner may include: a base having a base housing defining an agitator chamber, and an agitator assembly supported by the base housing in the agitator chamber and including a rotatable agitator. The surface cleaner may include a drive assembly operable to rotate the rotatable agitator about an agitator axis. The drive assembly may include: a motor having a motor shaft defining a motor axis; an intermediate shaft disposed between the agitator and the motor shaft and defining an intermediate axis parallel to the agitator axis and the motor axis. A first bearing assembly and a second bearing assembly may be mounted to the base housing and may rotatably support the intermediate shaft. The first belt may be operatively engaged with the intermediate shaft between the first bearing assembly and the second bearing assembly, and the first belt may also be operatively engaged with the motor shaft. The second belt may be operatively engaged with the intermediate shaft at an end of the intermediate shaft, wherein the first bearing assembly is located between the second belt and the first belt, and the second belt is operatively engaged with the agitator. In this configuration, with the first belt disposed between the two bearing assemblies, the cantilever loading effect present when both bearing assemblies are on one side of the belt is avoided, which may allow the overall length of the drive assembly to be reduced.

[0008] In an embodiment of the drive assembly, in order to allow access to the first belt and the pulley on which the first belt is mounted and between the bearing assemblies, the first bearing assembly may include an annularly mounted bearing support having a slot, which is configured to provide such access. For example, the first pulley may be disposed on an intermediate shaft between the first bearing assembly and the second bearing assembly, wherein the first belt engages with the first pulley. The first bearing assembly may include a bearing housing that is fixed to the base housing and surrounds the intermediate shaft. The bearing housing may include a through hole through which the intermediate shaft extends. The annularly mounted bearing retainer may be supported by the bearing housing in a first wall of the bearing housing at the through hole and may be rotatable relative to the bearing housing. The annularly mounted bearing retainer may have a slot, and the bearing housing may have a window extending to the through hole. The slot may be in communication with the window during a portion of the rotation of the annularly mounted bearing retainer. The size of the slot and the window may be designed to allow the first belt to be arranged around the first pulley and engage with the first pulley.

[0009] A surface cleaner within the scope of the present disclosure may include a self-priming centrifugal pump that avoids the need for external components to prime the pump, thereby minimizing the packaging space within the surface cleaner. The surface cleaner may include: a base configured to move on the surface to be cleaned, the base including a base housing. The surface cleaner may include a fluid distribution system that is operable to deliver a fluid to the surface to be cleaned. The fluid distribution system may include a centrifugal pump mounted in the base housing. The centrifugal pump may include: a housing having an inlet through which a fluid is sucked and an outlet through which a fluid is discharged. The housing may also include a volute scroll member in fluid communication with the inlet, an expansion chamber in communication with the outlet, a throat connecting the volute scroll member to the expansion chamber fluid, and a seepage hole connecting the expansion chamber to the volute scroll member fluid. The centrifugal pump may include a pump wheel configured to rotate in a volute scroll member to pump fluid from an inlet to an outlet through a throat and an expansion chamber, wherein the fluid in the expansion chamber is separated from the air in the expansion chamber and returned to the volute scroll member through a seepage hole, thereby starting the centrifugal pump. In some embodiments, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the throat to the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet may be about 1.35 to 1.55. In the same embodiment or in different embodiments, the ratio of the volume of the volute scroll member to the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet may be about 175 to 195. Using these specific ratios, the centrifugal pump can be operated to provide sufficient pressure at the outlet while maintaining self-priming flow at the volute scroll member. In some embodiments, the centrifugal pump may be driven on an intermediate shaft of a motor drive assembly discussed herein.

[0010] The surface cleaner within the scope of the present disclosure may include a fluid distribution system, which can select a low flow operating state or a high flow operating state by utilizing an electrically controlled centrifugal pump and a pressure valve configured to open at a predetermined fluid pressure. For example, the surface cleaner may include a fluid distribution system, which is operable to deliver fluid to the surface to be cleaned. The fluid distribution system may include a fluid supply, an electric motor and a centrifugal pump, which is configured to be driven by an electric motor and has an inlet and an outlet. The inlet may be in fluid communication with the fluid supply. A pump control switch may be operatively connected to the centrifugal pump. The pump control switch may have an on state and an off state. When the pump control switch is in an off state, the centrifugal pump may be closed, and when the pump control switch is in an on state, the centrifugal pump may be opened. The fluid distribution system may include a pressure valve in communication with the outlet fluid. The pressure valve may have a first flow area under a fluid pressure less than a predetermined fluid pressure, and a second flow area greater than the first flow area under a fluid pressure greater than or equal to a predetermined fluid pressure. When the centrifugal pump is turned off, the fluid pressure at the pressure valve is less than the predetermined fluid pressure, and when the centrifugal pump is turned on, the fluid pressure at the pressure valve is greater than or equal to the predetermined fluid pressure. When the pump control switch is in an off state, fluid from the fluid supply is discharged through the centrifugal pump to reach the pressure valve.

[0011] A cleaning system used with a surface cleaner within the scope of the present disclosure may include a tray, in which the base of the cleaner may be docked to clean an agitator, such as a brush roll. The tray may be configured to be easy to use, which minimizes the spillage or splashing of cleaning fluid. For example, a cleaning system for an agitator assembly for cleaning a surface cleaner may include a docking tray, which defines a reservoir and a filling tank, wherein the wall of the docking tray separates the reservoir from the filling tank. The docking tray may be configured to support a base for the surface cleaner, wherein the agitator assembly included in the base is arranged at the reservoir. The docking tray may define a passage extending through the wall and connecting the reservoir to the filling tank. The docking tray may be configured to allow the fluid injected into the filling tank to flow into the reservoir through the passage. Therefore, when the base is docked in the tray, the user can fill the main reservoir by injecting the cleaning fluid into the filling tank.

[0012] A surface cleaner within the scope of the present disclosure may include: a base configured to move on a surface to be cleaned; and a ridge assembly operatively connected to the base for guiding the base on the surface to be cleaned; wherein the ridge assembly includes a frame having an orifice. The surface cleaner may also include a recovery tank for collecting liquid received from a mixed air and liquid flow generated in the base. The recovery tank may have a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls extending upward from the bottom wall, and the bottom wall and the plurality of side walls define a tank chamber with a top opening. The surface cleaner may also include a cover, a handle, and a spring biasing mechanism. The recovery tank, the cover, the handle, and the spring biasing mechanism may be referred to as a recovery tank assembly. The cover may be fixed to the recovery tank to extend above the top opening. The cover may have a top wall with a top window and a side wall with a side window. The handle may be pivotally connected to the cover and may pivot between a lowered position and a raised position. The spring biasing mounting mechanism may be operable to selectively fix the cover to the frame. The spring biased mounting mechanism may include a body having a top protrusion extending upward through the top window and biased to an extended position, and a side arm extending laterally through the side window. The recovery tank may be configured to be assembled to the frame when the handle is in a raised position, wherein the cover is fixed to the recovery tank and the top protrusion extends in the aperture of the frame. The handle may interfere with the side arm when pivoted to a lowered position, thereby causing the side arm to move downward in the side window and simultaneously causing the top protrusion to move downward through the top window to withdraw the top protrusion from the aperture and allow the recovery tank to be removed from the frame.

[0013] A surface cleaner within the scope of the present disclosure may include: a base configured to move on a surface to be cleaned; and an air / liquid separation system for separating liquid and air in a working air / liquid stream. The air / liquid separation system may include a recovery tank for collecting liquid received from a mixed air and liquid stream generated in the base. The recovery tank may have a bottom wall, a plurality of side walls extending upward from the bottom wall, and define a tank chamber having a top opening. The air / liquid separation system may also include: a cover that may be fixed to the recovery tank to extend above the top opening; a plurality of vertical walls that are disposed in the tank chamber and define an inlet stack and an outlet stack; and a float that is disposed in the tank chamber and is operatively attached to the cover and can be vertically translated relative to the cover. The bottom wall may have an inlet opening at the bottom of the inlet stack and an outlet opening at the bottom of the outlet stack, through which the mixed air and liquid stream is introduced, and through which the separated air is discharged from the recovery tank. The cover may include a top wall and a bottom wall, with a cover chamber between the top wall and the bottom wall. The bottom wall may have a first cover chamber opening that is in selective fluid communication with the tank chamber and serves as a tank chamber air outlet and a second cover chamber opening at the entrance to the outlet stack. The float may be configured to close the first cover chamber opening when the liquid in the tank chamber reaches a predetermined level. The cover and attached float may be removed from the recovery tank as a unit, and when the cover and attached float are removed, the plurality of vertical walls defining the inlet stack and the outlet stack remain in the tank chamber.

[0014] A surface cleaner within the scope of the present disclosure may include a base configured to move on a surface to be cleaned, and may include a fluid distribution system operable to deliver a fluid to the surface to be cleaned. The fluid distribution system may include a heater operable to generate steam and having a steam outlet. The fluid distribution system may also include: a distributor having a distributor outlet through which steam is distributed to the surface to be cleaned; and a conduit path through which steam travels from the steam outlet to the distributor. The conduit path may have a conduit inlet at the steam outlet of the heater and a conduit outlet at the distributor. When the base is placed on the surface to be cleaned in the use position, the conduit inlet may be arranged farther above the surface to be cleaned than the conduit outlet. In this configuration, for example, when the heater and / or the cleaner are turned off, the steam will not cool and gather in the conduit path. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only, are schematic in nature, and are intended to be exemplary and not to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a surface cleaner having a base and a ridge assembly, showing the ridge assembly in an upright position.

[0017] Figure 2 is another side view of the surface cleaner and shows the ridge assembly pivoted to a tilted position shown in phantom.

[0018] Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of a base showing an agitator lift mechanism for lifting the agitator assembly away from a surface to be cleaned.

[0019] Figure 4 A perspective view of a portion of an agitator support frame and an engagement mechanism included in an agitator lifting mechanism.

[0020] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an agitator lift rod included in the agitator lift mechanism.

[0021] Figure 6 is a partial perspective cutaway view of the base, showing the agitator lifting mechanism.

[0022] Figure 7 is another partial perspective cutaway view of the base showing the agitator assembly in a lowered position.

[0023] Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of the base showing the agitator assembly in a raised position with the belt interengaged with the belt slide mechanism, and the lowered position of the belt is shown in phantom.

[0024] Fig. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of the base showing the agitator assembly in a raised position with the belt interengaged with an alternative belt slide mechanism, and the lowered position of the belt is shown in phantom.

[0025] Fig.10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the base showing the detent mechanism in an engaged position to retain the spine assembly in an upright position.

[0026] Fig.11 is a partial cross-sectional view of the base showing the detent mechanism in a released position to enable the spine assembly to pivot to a tilted position.

[0027] Fig.12 is a partial perspective cutaway view of the base, showing the latch mechanism in an engaged position.

[0028] Fig.13 It is a partial perspective cutaway view of the base, showing the latch mechanism in the released position.

[0029] Fig.14 is a perspective view of a portion of a drive assembly included in a base for rotatably driving an agitator assembly and for rotatably driving a centrifugal pump.

[0030] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 A partial perspective view of a portion of a drive assembly showing a belt engaged with a pulley.

[0031] Fig.16 is a fragmentary perspective view of a portion of a drive assembly showing a portion of a bearing housing supporting an annularly mounted bearing retainer, the bearing retainer being shown in a first position.

[0032] Fig.17 yes Fig.16 A partial perspective view of a portion of a bearing housing showing the annularly mounted bearing retainer rotated to a second position.

[0033] Fig.18 yes Fig.16 A partial perspective view of a portion of a bearing housing showing the annularly mounted bearing retainer rotated to a third position.

[0034] Fig.19 is a partial perspective view of a portion of a drive assembly including a bearing housing mounted to a base housing, a side cover of the bearing housing, and showing a bearing retainer in a first position.

[0035] Fig. 20 yes Fig.19 A partial perspective view of a drive assembly of and showing the belt being manually inserted into a window located in the bearing housing and a slot located in the ring-mounted bearing retainer, wherein the ring-mounted bearing retainer is shown in a first position.

[0036] Fig.21 yes Fig.19 A partial perspective view of a drive assembly of FIG. 1 and illustrating the annularly mounted bearing retainer being rotated toward a second position to partially wrap the belt around the pulley.

[0037] Fig. 22 yes Fig.19 0014] A partial perspective view of a drive assembly of FIG. 10 and showing the annularly mounted bearing retainer after being fully rotated back to the first position to fully wrap the belt around the pulley.

[0038] Fig.23 yes Fig.19 A partial perspective view of the drive assembly of FIG. 1 and showing the belt being pulled partially through a second window located in the bearing housing.

[0039] Fig.24 yes Fig.19 A partial perspective view of the drive assembly of FIG. 1 and showing the belt being pulled completely through the second window located in the bearing housing to Fig.14 The motor shaft is engaged.

[0040] Fig.25 yes Fig.14 A perspective view of a centrifugal pump shown in FIG.

[0041] Fig.26 yes Fig.25 Exploded perspective view of a centrifugal pump showing the integrated self-priming feature.

[0042] Fig. 27 yes Fig.25 The pump casing of the centrifugal pump is at the pump outlet and along the Fig.25 A cross-sectional view taken along line 27-27 in FIG.

[0043] Fig.28 It is along Fig.26 A cross-sectional view of the throat of the centrifugal pump taken along line 28-28 in FIG.

[0044] Fig.29 is used for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a fluid distribution system of a surface cleaner in low flow operation.

[0045] Fig.30 yes Fig.29 Schematic diagram of a fluid distribution system in high flow operation.

[0046] Fig.31 is used for Figure 1 A top perspective view of a docking tray of a base of a surface cleaner.

[0047] Fig.32 yes Fig.31 A side perspective view of a docking tray.

[0048] Fig.33 Yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the recovery tank assembly of the recovery tank is shown showing the handle in a raised position.

[0049] Fig.34 yes Fig.33 A side view of a recovery tank assembly is shown with the handle in a lowered position shown in phantom.

[0050] Fig.35 yes Fig.33 A bottom perspective view of a recovery tank assembly.

[0051] Fig.36 is included in Fig.33 A perspective view of a spring biased mounting mechanism in a recovery tank assembly.

[0052] Fig.37 yes Fig.36 Another perspective view of the spring biased mounting mechanism.

[0053] Fig.38 yes Figure 1 A partial perspective view of a surface cleaner of FIG. 1 with both the recovery tank assembly and the supply tank removed.

[0054] Fig.39 yes Fig.38 Another partial perspective view of a surface cleaner.

[0055] Fig.40 It is along Fig.33 A cross-sectional view of the recovery tank assembly taken along line 40-40 in FIG.

[0056] Fig.41 yes Fig.40 A cross-sectional view of the lid, handle and float of a recovery tank assembly.

[0057] Fig.42 It is a bottom perspective view of a part of a cover.

[0058] Fig.43 yes Fig.42 A top perspective view of a portion of a cover.

[0059] Fig.44 is a top perspective view of a portion of a recovery tank assembly with the cover, handle, and float removed.

[0060] Fig.45 is a partial side view of a portion of a fluid dispensing system for a surface cleaner.

[0061] Fig.46 yes Fig.45 A partial stereoscopic view of a fluid distribution system.

[0062] The above-mentioned features and advantages and other features and advantages of the present teaching are apparent from the following detailed description of the mode for carrying out the present teaching when combined with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that even though embodiments may be described separately in the following drawings, their individual features may be combined into other embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] The present disclosure generally relates to a surface cleaner 10 such as Figure 1 ) and its various aspects for improved performance, compactness, ease of use and other benefits. The surface cleaner 10 includes a base 12 and a spine assembly 14 that is pivotally connected to the base 12 and pivotable about a pivot axis 16 between a first position P1 and a second position P2. The first position P1 is also referred to as an upright position or storage position, and is Figure 1 and Figure 2 The second position P2 is also called the use position or the tilted position and is Figure 2In the second position, shown in phantom, the ridge assembly 14 is pivoted rearwardly to form an acute angle with the surface S to be cleaned. Figure 1 In FIG, the base 12 is shown docked or resting in the docking tray 18. The filling cup 20 is shown supported on the docking tray 18. Figure 2 In the embodiment of the present invention, the base 12 is removed from the docking tray 18 for cleaning the surface S. The surface S can be, for example, any type of floor, including soft surfaces (such as carpets and floor mats) and hard surfaces (such as tiles, wood, vinyl plastics, and laminate surfaces). According to some aspects, the surface cleaner 10 can be in the form of a vertical deep cleaner, also known as an extraction cleaner, which is configured to be used on soft floor surfaces (such as carpets and floor mats). However, the aspects disclosed herein can be implemented on cleaning equipment of other types and structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The surface cleaner 10 can include multiple systems and components, including a two-phase fluid delivery system, a liquid delivery system, and a recovery system. These multiple systems and components can be supported by either or both of the base 12 and the ridge assembly 14.

[0064] For purposes of the description associated with the drawings, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," "outer," and their derivatives will relate to the direction from the rear of the surface cleaner 10 (e.g., at the Figure 2 The left side of the surface cleaner 10 is viewed from the user's perspective. Figure 2 The disclosure is oriented in the middle, the rear defining the rear R of the surface cleaner 10. However, it should be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations unless expressly specified to the contrary. The front F of the surface cleaner 10 is also Figure 2 and is located at the mouth 21. Figure 1 1. The left side LS of the surface cleaner 10 is shown in FIG. 1, and the right side RS is also shown.

[0065] The ridge assembly 14 may include any type of handle 22, wand, body, or combination thereof suitable for the purposes described herein, including for a user to maneuver the surface cleaner 10 over the surface S to be cleaned. The handle 22 extends upwardly from the frame 24 and is provided at one end with a hand grip 30 that can be used to maneuver the surface cleaner 10 over the surface S to be cleaned.

[0066] In one embodiment, the ridge assembly 14 includes a main support section or frame 24 (also referred to as a ridge) that supports the components of the surface cleaner 10, including but not limited to a recovery tank 28 and a supply tank 26, the recovery tank being used to recover dirty fluid and being part of a recovery system, and the supply tank being used to supply clean fluid and being part of a liquid delivery system. An accessory hose port 29 is in fluid communication with the recovery system in an upper portion of the suction nozzle 21 for selectively coupling with an accessory hose 31 to which a cleaning tool can be attached. The accessory hose port 29 includes a door (not shown) that is selectively movable between a closed position and an open position for coupling the accessory hose 31. An exemplary accessory hose coupling system is described in U.S. Patent No. 10,188,252, entitled "Surface Cleaning Apparatus," issued on January 29, 2019 and assigned to B.S.A., the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0067] The motor housing 32 is formed at the lower end of the frame 24 and houses a suction source such as a motor / pump wheel system that is in fluid communication with the suction nozzle 21 and the recovery tank 28 in the motor housing. The recovery system may include the suction nozzle 21, a suction source in fluid communication with the suction nozzle 21 for generating a working air flow, and a recovery container 28 for separating and collecting fluid and debris from the working air flow for later disposal. Other components of the ridge assembly 14 may include, but are not limited to, a heater, a pump, a power source, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0068] The base 12 may include any type of base, foot, or cleaning head suitable for the purposes described herein. In one embodiment, the base 12 includes a base housing 36 that supports components of various systems, including but not limited to a steam distributor, a liquid distributor, a suction nozzle, and an agitator. In one example, the base 12 includes a two-phase distribution system for distributing steam, such as described in the applicant's co-pending application, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 297,851, filed on January 10, 2022, entitled "Surface Cleaning Apparatus with Steam", the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In one example, the surface cleaner 10 may include multiple cleaning modes, including modes for dispensing both liquid and steam, modes for dispensing only steam, and modes for dispensing only liquid, such as described in Applicant's co-pending application, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 305,723, filed on February 2, 2022, entitled "Extraction Cleaner With Steam," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The wheels 38 may at least partially support the base housing 36 for movement over the surface S to be cleaned. Other components of the base 12 may include, but are not limited to, a heater, a pump, a motor for driving an agitator, a hose, a scraper, the like, or any combination thereof.

[0069] The movable joint assembly 40 can connect the base 12 to the spine assembly 14 to enable the spine assembly 14 to move about the pivot axis 16. For example, as discussed herein, the engagement wheels 104, 104A (see Figure 3 and Fig.10 ) can pivot relative to the base housing 36 along with the rest of the spine assembly 14. In the embodiment shown herein, the spine assembly 14 can pivot relative to the base 12 about the pivot axis 16. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the movable joint assembly connecting the base 12 to the spine assembly 14 can alternatively include a universal joint so that the spine assembly 14 can rotate about its longitudinal axis in addition to pivoting relative to the base 12.

[0070] Wiring and / or conduits may optionally supply power, air, liquids, and / or steam between the spine assembly 14 and the base 12 (or between the base and the spine assembly), and may extend through the joint assembly 40. Thus, in some embodiments, multiple systems may extend through the joint assembly 40. For example, a steam supply path and / or a liquid supply path may extend through the joint assembly 40.

[0071] Figure 31 is a partial cross-sectional view of the base 12, showing the agitator lifting mechanism 44 for lifting the agitator assembly 46 away from the surface S to be cleaned. Figure 6 As best shown in , the base housing 36 at least partially defines an agitator chamber 48 in which the agitator assembly 46 is housed. The agitator assembly 46 includes a first rotatable agitator 52A and a second rotatable agitator 52B. The first rotatable agitator 52A can be referred to as a rear agitator, and the second rotatable agitator 52B can be referred to as a front agitator because the first rotatable agitator 52A is disposed behind the front rotatable agitator 52B. Both the rotatable agitators 52A, 52B are shown as brush rolls 54 having bristles 56 that are used to agitate the surface S during cleaning to loosen dirt and debris. Although the agitators 52A, 52B are shown as brush rolls having multiple rows of bristles, it is also within the scope of the present disclosure for the agitators 52A, 52B to include additional or alternative configurations, non-limiting examples of which include microfiber materials, fabric or polymer blades, and combinations thereof. Figure 6 Also shown is the portion of the nozzle inlet 53 defined by the nozzle 21 through which a suction source in fluid communication with the nozzle 21 creates a vacuum to generate a working air flow to the recovery tank 28 for separating and collecting fluid and waste from the working air flow for later disposal. Figure 6 Also shown is a spray manifold 57 having a plurality of outlets 59 that deliver liquid cleaning fluid between the front agitator 52B and the brush roll 54 of the rear agitator 52A. In some embodiments, the spray manifold 57 can be configured to deliver liquid cleaning fluid to one or both of the agitators 52A, 52B.

[0072] Agitators 52A, 52B each have respective agitator axes A1 and A2 that are generally horizontal and parallel to the surface to be cleaned S when agitator assembly 46 is in the lowered position. Agitator axes A1 and A2 are longitudinal axes of a dowel 58 that supports brush roll 54. Dowel 58, along with axes A1 and A2, extends parallel to the front F of base 12 and from left side LS to right side RS. Rear agitator 52A is driven by belt B2 of drive assembly 200 that engages sprocket 55A at the end of rear agitator 52A, as discussed herein (see Figure 7 and Fig.14 ). The sprocket 55A rotates together with the rear brush roller 54 about the agitator axis A1. Figure 8 Another belt B3 is shown operatively engaging a sprocket at the end of the rear agitator 52A with the front agitator 52B to rotatably drive the front agitator 52B about the axis A2. Another belt B3 may be provided at the end of the agitators 52A, 52B opposite to the belt B2. The opposite end may also have a sprocket, such as in Figure 7 and Figure 8 For example, the front agitator 52B has Figure 7 and Figure 8 The sprocket 55B shown rotates with the front brush roller 54 about the agitator axis A2. A similar sprocket 55B at the opposite end may be connected to the front brush roller 54. Figure 8 The band B3 is joined.

[0073] Figure 4 A portion of the agitator assembly 46 including the agitator support frame 60 is shown. Figure 4 Only the portion of the agitator support frame 60 that supports the ends of the rotatable agitators 52A, 52B closest to the left side LS of the base 12 is shown. Figure 4 The perspective view of FIG. 6 shows the inside of the agitator support frame 60. When viewed from the outside, the engagement mechanism 68, shown as being fixed to the agitator support frame 60 via the arm 70, is located behind the agitator support frame 60, for example, as Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown. Figure 4 Another agitator support frame that is a mirror image of the agitator support frame 60 shown supports the rotatable agitators 52A, 52B at the right side RS in the same manner. In some embodiments, the engagement mechanism 68, the arm 70 and the support frame 60 may be an integral, one-piece component.

[0074] The rotatable agitators 52A, 52B are rotatably supported on the agitator support frame 60 by means of the dowel pin 58 and the inner surface of the brush roller 54. Figure 4 The hubs 62 shown on the agitator support frame 60 cooperate with each other. A support wire 63 for further supporting the agitator assembly 46 can be arranged to extend in the front-to-back direction below the brush roller 54 and can be fixed to the base housing 36 in front and behind the agitator assembly 46, such as Figure 8 shown.

[0075] For example, it may be desirable to raise the agitator assembly 46 away from the surface S to be cleaned when the surface cleaner 10 is in the upright position with power on. For example, during cleaning, with power on and the base 12 not being moved over the surface S, the user may temporarily place the spine assembly 14 in the upright position. The brush roll 54 will remain in one position above the surface S until the user pivots the spine assembly 14 to the use position and moves the base 12 over the surface S. Since the brush roll 54 will rotate when power is on, it is advantageous to raise the brush roll away from the surface S when the spine assembly 14 is in the upright or parked position and only lower the brush roll when the spine assembly 14 is in the use position. The agitator lift mechanism 44 enables this lifting and lowering action.

[0076] Reference again Figure 3 The agitator lifting mechanism 44 includes an agitator lifting rod 72, which is supported on the base housing 36 and can be moved in a forward position (such as Figure 3 and Figure 6 In the rearward position, the entire rod 72 is in the Figure 3 The rod 72 is moved to the right in the middle so that the end 75 of the rod 72 is at the position 75A.

[0077] The agitator lifting mechanism 44 also includes Figure 4 The engagement mechanism 68. Figure 3 As shown, the engagement mechanism 68 is positioned to be pivoted about the pivot axis A3 by the agitator lift rod 72 when the agitator lift rod 72 is translated to the rearward position. Figure 4 As shown, engagement mechanism 68 is secured to arm 70, which in turn is secured to support frame 60 such that when engagement mechanism 68 is pivoted via rod 72, engagement mechanism 68, arm 70, and support frame 60 pivot in unison with brushroll 54. Thus, pivot axis A3 may be referred to as the agitator support frame pivot axis.

[0078] The lower portion of the base housing 36 (at Figure 3 The rear portion of the lower edge 78 of the support rod 72 (not visible in the cross section) is supported. The forward portion of the lower edge 78 rests on the engagement mechanism 68. More specifically, the lower edge 78 of the rod 72 and the rear face 79 of the downwardly extending finger 80 (in FIG. Figure 5 ) against the forward face 82 of the first arm 84 (see Figure 4 ), the first arm projects radially outward from the pivot axis A3 and interengages with the rod 72 at the finger 80. The second arm 84B also projects radially outward and is constrained by the projections 86 of the base housing 36 to move within the angular range between the projections 86, thereby limiting the pivoting or rotating range of the engagement mechanism 68 and thus determining the amount of lifting and release of the agitator assembly 46.

[0079] Spring 90 (see Figure 3 ) The retaining post 92 around the rod 72 (see Figure 5 ). The forward portion of the spring 90 abuts against the rear side of the top portion 94 of the finger 80. The coils of the spring 90 have a sufficient diameter so that the rear portion of the spring 90 abuts against the wall 96 of the base housing 36, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown. The wall 96 extends only outwardly and downwardly from the rod 72 so that the wall 96 does not interfere with the forward and backward translation of the rod 72. Figure 6When arranged as shown, the spring 90 biases the forward face 76 of the lever 72 against another wall 98 of the base housing 36. In other words, the spring 90 biases the agitator lift lever 72 to the forward position. An advantage of biasing the spring 90 to the forward position is that if the agitator assembly 46 is periodically removed during the life of the surface cleaner 10, such as to replace the brush roll 54, the finger 80 will not accidentally get stuck behind the first arm 84.

[0080] The spine assembly 14 is configured to operatively engage the rod 72 and when the spine assembly 14 is moved from the second position ( Figure 2 ) to a first position ( Figure 2 When the rod 72 is moved from the forward position (in the vertical position) Figure 3 ) is translated to a rearward position (shown at 75A). More specifically, referring to Figure 3 The ridge assembly 14 includes a lower shell 100. A portion of the lower shell 100 is adjacent to the base shell 36 at a window 102 in the base shell 36, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 The ridge assembly 14 also includes an engagement wheel 104 that is rotatably mounted to the lower housing 100 at the pivot axis 16. The engagement wheel 104 has a tubular knob 106 located at its periphery that is surrounded by a protruding sleeve 108 of the lower housing 100. When the ridge assembly 14 is pivoted to the upright position ( Figure 3 When the engagement wheel 104 is rotated about the pivot axis 16 by the lower housing 100, the engagement wheel moves counterclockwise with the knob 106. The engagement wheel 104 has a lower protrusion 110 that engages with an upwardly extending arm 112 of the lever 72. The arm 112 is also Figure 5 The projection 110 is forced against the front face 114 of the arm 112, causing the rod 72 to translate from the forward position to the rearward position. As the rod 72 translates rearwardly, the finger 80 moves rearwardly, exerting a force on the first arm 84 of the engagement mechanism 68, causing the engagement mechanism 68 to move in a Figure 3 Rotate clockwise from the center of the first arm 84 so that the first arm 84 is in position 84A. Figure 4 From the perspective of the first arm 84, the first arm 84 will rotate counterclockwise. The arm 70 and the support frame 60 connected to the engagement mechanism 68 also pivot with the engagement mechanism 68. Therefore, since the arm and the support frame are in front of the engagement mechanism 68, the arm 70 and the support frame 60 are lifted away from the horizontal plane below the base 12, such as Figure 2 Thus, the pivoting joint mechanism 68 lifts the agitator support frame 60 and the agitators 52A, 52B (e.g., including the brush roller 54) fixed thereto from the lowered position to the raised position, where the agitators 52A, 52B are further away from the surface to be cleaned S than in the lowered position.

[0081] Figure 8 The agitator assembly 46 is shown in a raised position. Belt B2, which engages sprocket 55A on rear agitator 52A, is shown in phantom at B2A to indicate the position of belt B2 when agitator assembly 46 is in the lowered position. Belt B2 is part of drive assembly 200, which is Figures 7 to 9 Partially shown in Fig.14 Reference Fig.14 , the drive assembly 200 includes a motor 202 having a motor shaft 204, which is rotatably driven by the motor 202 about a motor axis A4. The drive assembly 200 also includes an intermediate shaft 206, which defines an intermediate axis A5 that is parallel to the motor axis A4 and parallel to the axis A1 of the first rotatable agitator 52A (i.e., the rear agitator 52A). The intermediate shaft 206 may also be referred to as a crankshaft. The first belt B1 is operatively engaged with the motor shaft 204 and the intermediate shaft 206. A pulley (not shown) may be provided on the motor shaft 204, and the first belt B1 may be operatively engaged with the motor shaft 204 via the pulley. The first belt B1 may be referred to as a stretching belt, which is rotatably driven by the motor shaft 204, and in turn is engaged with the first pulley 208 on the intermediate shaft 206 to rotatably drive the intermediate shaft 206. A second pulley 210 is provided at the end of the intermediate shaft 206, as Fig.14 As shown. The second pulley 210 is also Figure 7 and Figure 8 . The second belt B2 is engaged with the second pulley 210. The second belt B2 may be referred to as a timing belt and is also engaged with the sprocket 55A for rotating the agitator 52A around the agitator axis A1. As shown, the second pulley 210 and the sprocket 55A may have different diameters, thereby achieving a change in the rotational speed of the rear agitator 52A and the front agitator 52B relative to the intermediate shaft 206. The difference in diameter between the motor shaft 204 and the first pulley 208 may further affect the change in the rotational speed between the motor shaft 204 and the intermediate shaft 206. In the case where the first pulley 208 is shown as having a larger diameter than the motor shaft 204 and the sprocket 55A is shown as having a larger diameter than the second pulley 210, the drive assembly 200 reduces the rotational speed of the agitators 52A, 52B relative to the motor speed at the motor shaft 204.

[0082] When the agitator assembly 46 is moved to Figure 8 In the raised position, the axis A1 of the rear agitator 52A is closer to the rotation axis A5 of the intermediate shaft 206. To prevent this from causing excessive slack in the second belt B2, a protrusion 220 extends from the base housing 36 in the agitator chamber 48, such as Figure 8As shown. The protrusion 220 has a belt engaging surface 222. The protrusion 220 is fixed (does not rotate), and the belt B2 slides on the surface 222. When the agitator assembly 46 is in the Figure 7 In the lowered position shown, the second belt B2 is spaced apart from the belt engagement surface 222. Figure 8 In the raised position, the second belt B2 is arranged against the belt engagement surface 222. In fact, due to the position of the pivot axis A3 between the axes A1 and A5 and the rotation range of the mechanism 68 when pivoted by the rod 72, the front agitator 52B and its rotation axis A2 are raised above the rear agitator 52A. Therefore, the second belt B2 is forced to twist at the protrusion 220, as shown in FIG. Figure 8 220, this limits slack in band B2. Specifically, due to the twist, the length of the path of band B2 in the raised position is the same as the length of the path of band B2 in the lowered position. Therefore, there is no change in tension in band B2 due to contact with surface 222 of protrusion 220. In other words, the tension in band B2 is the same in the lowered position of agitator assembly 46 as in the raised position of agitator assembly 46.

[0083] Fig. 9 The base 12 is shown with a different embodiment of a protrusion 320 that engages with the second band B2 when the agitator assembly 46 is in the raised position. The protrusion 320 is a rotatable bearing 320 having a contact surface 322 that engages with the second band B2 when the agitator assembly 46 is in the raised position. Fig. 9 In the raised position, the contact surface contacts the second belt B2. The bearing 320 is held on the hub 324 and rotates about the axis A6. The belt B2 rotates the bearing 320 by contacting the contact surface 322 of the bearing 320. The lowered position of the rear agitator 52A and the belt B2 is Fig. 9 In the lowered position, the second band B2 is spaced apart from the contact surface 322 of the bearing 320 by at least a small gap. Fig. 9 Agitator support frame 60 and arm 70 are not shown in FIG, but pivot axis A3 is shown. As with protrusion 220, therefore, the tension in band B2 does not vary between the raised and lowered positions of agitator assembly 46 due to contact with surface 322 of bearing 320.

[0084] Once set to the first position (e.g., the upright position), the ridge assembly 14 remains in the first position until the user presses the release button 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the release button 300 is located on the right side RS of the base 12, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 Clearly visible. Fig.10As shown, the release button 300 is part of a detent mechanism 302 that releasably secures the spine assembly 14 in the first position. In addition to the release button 300, the detent mechanism 302 also includes a claw 304, a pivot arm 306, and a spring 308. The claw 304 is operatively secured to the lower shell 100 of the spine assembly 14. More specifically, the spine assembly 14 includes an engagement wheel 104A that is rotatably mounted to the lower shell 100 at the pivot axis 16 and has a spring 308 on only the opposite left side LS. Figure 3 The features described for the engagement wheel 104. In fact, Fig.12 The engagement wheel 104A is shown having a lower projection 110 that interengages an upwardly extending arm 112 of the lever 72 on the right side RS as described with respect to the similar projection 110 and engages the lever 72 on the left side LS. Fig.12 Engagement wheel 104A is shown having a window 105 that allows wiring 340 to extend into the interior cavity 330 in base housing 36 .

[0085] like Fig.10 and Fig.12 As shown, the pivot arm 306 is pivotally fixed to the base housing 36 by a pin 307 that establishes the pivot axis A6. The spring 308 has an outward end 310 (eg, Fig.13 ) and the inward end 312 captured in the recess 314 of the pivot arm 306 (as best shown in FIG. Fig.12 The pivot arm 306 is best shown in FIG. Figures 10 to 13 The clockwise pivoting in the base housing 36 is limited by another wall 311, such as Fig.12 When the ridge assembly 14 is in the first position, the upper front corner of the protrusion 315 of the pivot arm 306 is biased against the claw 304, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 and Fig.12 shown.

[0086] The release button 300 is mounted to the base housing 36 and can be pressed by a user applying a downward force F1 (see Fig.11 When pressed, the release button 300 presses against the head portion 318 of the pivot arm 306 to cause the pivot arm 306 to move in a Figures 10 to 13 The pivot arm 306 is pivoted counterclockwise in the center of the ridge assembly 14, away from the claw 304 and against the spring 308, thereby releasing the pivot arm 306 from the claw 304 and thereby allowing the spine assembly 14 to pivot to the second position (e.g., Figure 2 inclined position or use position). Fig.11 The released position of the pivot arm 306 is shown in FIG. It should be understood that since the spine assembly 14 is free to pivot when the detent mechanism 302 is released, there is a range of tilted positions. Figure 2The second position is simply a tilted position.

[0087] The base housing 36 defines an interior cavity 330 that is partially defined by the wall 309. The top wall 332 of the base housing 36 defines the top of the interior cavity 330 and is located at the bottom of the base housing 36. Fig.10 . An opening 334 leading to the inner cavity 330 is located between the wall 309 and the top wall 332 and faces generally upward. Vertical walls 336, 338 extend upward at the opening 334, thereby providing an elongated entrance to the opening 334. Fig.10 The pivot arm 306 is shown in the holding position and Fig.11 In the released position shown, the pivot arm 306, the pawl 304 and the spring 308 are completely disposed within the inner cavity 330. Fig.11 When the release button 300 is pressed by applying a force F1, the release button is moved along the central axis A7 of the opening 334. Fig.10 The static position of Fig.11 By utilizing a vertically disposed and vertically translatable release button 300 acting on an internally disposed pivot arm 306, the opening 334 is smaller than the opening required for a pivoting release pedal extending out of the cavity 330. Such a required opening for a pivoting release pedal may need to extend not only to the location where the opening 334 is disposed, but also further through the rear wall 309. The smaller opening 334 helps to limit the ingress of debris and moisture into the cavity 330. This is advantageous, particularly due to the presence of an electrical wire 340 disposed in the cavity 330 (see Fig.12 and 13 ), such as for providing power to, for example, a motor, a pump, or (one or more) switches.

[0088] In addition, the structure of the release button 300 also helps protect the inner cavity 330 from debris and moisture, and also blocks direct line of sight into the cavity 330. Specifically, the release button 300 has a cap portion 344, which is disposed outside the inner cavity 330, and an elongated body portion 346, which extends from the cap portion 344 through the opening 334 and when in Fig.11 The cap portion 344 is wider than the opening 334 and has a peripheral flange 348 that surrounds the upper extent of the walls 336, 338 of the base housing 36 at the opening 334 in the rest position and the pressed position, thereby forming a labyrinth interface 350 between the cap portion 344 and the base housing 36.

[0089] The elongated body portion 346 has an engagement end 352 that presses against the pivot arm 306. Fig.13As shown in the cross-sectional view of , the elongated body portion 346 has a central opening 354 at the engagement end 352, which extends partially to the cap portion 344 and extends around a central column 360 of the elongated body portion 346. The central column 360 extends from the cap portion 344 toward the engagement end 352. The base housing 36 includes spaced ribs 362. When the release button 300 is translated, the central column 360 slides between the spaced ribs 362. A stopper 364 is provided at the end of the central column 360 and is configured to interfere with the ends 362A of the spaced ribs 362 to prevent the release button 300 from being removed from the base housing 36. For example, the central column 360 may be internally threaded, such as Fig.13 As shown, the stopper 364 may include a fastener 366 screwed to the center post 360, the fastener having a head wide enough to interfere with the end 362A. Alternatively, the washer may be captured at the end of the center post 360 by the fastener 366. The center post 360 is guided by the ribs 362 to translate between the ribs 362 and cannot be more than Fig.13 In the illustrated position, the button 300 is held to the base housing 36 with the position raised further away from the opening 334. Fig.13 In the farthest vertical position of the release button shown, the flange 348 still extends downward further than the tops of the walls 336, 338, thereby protecting the interior cavity 330 from moisture and debris.

[0090] As discussed above, Fig.14 An embodiment of the drive assembly 200 may include Figure 8 The drive assembly 200 is a perspective view of a portion of the base 12 of the embodiment of the present invention, which is used to rotatably drive the agitator assembly 46. The drive assembly 200 can also rotatably drive the agitator assembly 46 of the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 25 to Figure 28 The centrifugal pump 400 in question. Fig.14 The illustrated drive assembly 200 includes a first bearing assembly 368 and a second bearing assembly 370 . Fig.15 is a partial perspective view of a portion of the drive assembly 200 showing the first belt B1 engaged with the first pulley 208, as previously discussed.

[0091] Fig.15 and Fig.16 The first bearing assembly 368 shown includes a bearing housing 372 that is mounted to the Figure 8 The base housing 36. Figures 19 to 24 , the bearing housing 372 is shown mounted to the base housing 36. Fig.14 and Fig.15 Only the first half 372A of the bearing housing 372 is shown. The second half 372B is attached to the first half 372A, such as via a pin or other fastener, and is, for example, Fig.16A rotatable bearing 376 is included in the first bearing assembly 368 , thereby allowing the first bearing assembly 368 to rotatably support the intermediate shaft 206 .

[0092] Fig.15 The second bearing assembly 370 shown includes a bearing housing 388 that is mounted to the Figure 8 The base housing 36 of the second bearing assembly 370 is provided with a bolt or other fastener that will extend through a fastener opening 390 in the bearing housing 388. A rotatable bearing 392 is included in the second bearing assembly 370, thereby allowing the second bearing assembly 370 to rotatably support the intermediate shaft 206.

[0093] The first band B1 is operatively engaged with the intermediate shaft 206 between the first bearing assembly 368 and the second bearing assembly 370, and is also operatively engaged with the motor shaft 204, as shown in FIG. Fig.14 The second band B2 is Fig.15 In the figure, only dashed lines are shown, but in Figure 8 is shown as being engaged with the second pulley 210, Fig.14 The second pulley is disposed at the end of the intermediate shaft 206. The first bearing assembly 368 is located between the second belt B2 and the first belt B1, and the second belt B2 is operatively engaged with the first rotatable agitator 52A, such as Figure 8 shown.

[0094] from Fig.15 As can be clearly seen in FIG. 1 , the loads of the two belts B1 and B2 on the intermediate shaft 206 act toward one end of the length of the intermediate shaft 206. For example, Fig.15 As shown, the two belts B1 and B2 act on the right half of the intermediate shaft 206. In another embodiment, the loads of the two belts B1 and B2 can be managed by placing two bearings on one side of the two belts to allow torsional support, thereby creating a cantilever belt arrangement (e.g., in Fig.15 , the two bearing assemblies would be located to the left of the two bands B1 and B2). This arrangement requires more packaging space because the bearing assemblies must be significantly spaced apart from each other when packaged on one side of the two bands in order to support the load of the cantilever.

[0095] exist Fig.14In the arrangement of the drive assembly 200 shown, the first band B1 is alternatively disposed between the bearing assemblies 368 and 370 along the length of the intermediate shaft 206 (e.g., along the rotational axis A5 of the intermediate shaft 206), and the first bearing assembly 368 is located between the first band B1 and the second band B2 along the length of the intermediate shaft 206 (e.g., along the rotational axis A5 of the intermediate shaft 206). While this arrangement eliminates the cantilever effect of the first band B1 and reduces the overall length of the drive assembly 200 along the intermediate shaft 206, it presents challenges in accessing the first band B1 between the bearing assemblies 368, 370, which may be required for maintenance or band replacement. This problem is addressed by providing the first bearing assembly 268 with an annularly mounted bearing retainer 394 that is supported by the bearing housing 372 in a first wall 395 of the bearing housing 372 at a through hole 396 in the bearing housing 372 through which the intermediate shaft 206 extends. For example, the through hole 396 is located at the through hole 396 in the bearing housing 372. Fig.15 and Figure 6 , and is a circular hole formed by the bearing housing halves 372A, 372B. An annularly mounted bearing retainer 394 surrounds and supports the outer periphery of the bearing 376, and is in turn supported at the through hole 396 by the bearing housing 372 at the outer periphery of the annularly mounted bearing retainer. Fig.15 As can be seen in the figure, the first wall 395 extends into the groove 393 at the periphery of the bearing retainer 394, thereby allowing the bearing retainer 394 to rotate about the axis A5 while allowing the bearing retainer to remain captured at the wall 395 when the seat halves 372A, 372B are assembled and retained to the base shell 36.

[0096] The annularly mounted bearing retainer 394 has a slot 397 that extends approximately one-quarter of the way around the periphery of the bearing 376 and extends to the periphery of the bearing retainer 394. The bearing housing 372 also defines a window 398 that extends through the second wall 399 of the bearing housing 372 and extends around the corner and partially into the first wall 395, as shown in FIG. Fig.16 Window 398 may be referred to as a first window and extends through the two walls 395, 399 to the area at the through hole 396 where the first pulley 208 is located. Fig.24 , the bearing housing 372 also has a second window 401 spaced apart from the first window 398. The first wall 395 extends perpendicular to the intermediate axis A5, the second wall 399 extends parallel to the intermediate axis A5 and perpendicular to the first wall 395, and the second window 401 extends parallel to the intermediate axis A5 and perpendicular to both the first wall 395 and the second wall 399.

[0097] The slot 397 and the first window 398 are sized to allow the first belt B1 to be arranged around the first pulley 208 and to engage with the first pulley. More specifically, the first belt B1 is engaged with the first pulley 208 by aligning the slot 397 with the first window 398, inserting the first belt B1 through the slot 397 and the first window 398, rotating the annularly mounted bearing retainer 394 to wrap the first belt B1 around the first pulley 208 (e.g., rotating the annularly mounted bearing retainer 394 entirely manually), and then pulling a portion of the first belt B1 out through the second window 401 so that the pulled-out portion can be wrapped around the motor shaft 204. Reference Figures 16 to 24 Explain the steps.

[0098] For example, Fig.16 The annularly mounted bearing retainer 394 is shown in a first position in which the slot 397 is in communication with (eg, aligned with) the first window 398 . Fig.17 The annularly mounted bearing retainer 394 is shown Fig.16 The first position is rotated approximately a quarter turn clockwise to a second position in which the slot 397 is not in communication with the first window 398. Fig.18 The annularly mounted bearing retainer 394 is shown rotated approximately half a turn from the second position to a third position in which the slot 397 is still not in communication with the first window 398. The annularly mounted bearing retainer 394 will then be rotated from the second position to the third position. Fig.18 Rotate about another quarter turn back to the third position Fig.16 The first position of 397 is moved so that a complete manual rotation is completed and the slot 397 is connected to the first window 398 again.

[0099] Figures 19 to 24 The bearing housing 372 is shown assembled to the base housing 36, wherein the side cover 36A of the base housing 36 extends outside the pulley 210 and the annularly mounted bearing retainer 394. To engage the belt B1 with the first pulley 208, first, as shown in FIG. Fig.19 As shown, the slot 397 is manually placed in a first position where the slot is aligned with the first window 398. Next, as shown in FIG. Fig. 20 398 and the slot 397, wherein the ring-mounted bearing retainer 394 is in the first position. The hand H pushes the band B1 to rotate the ring-mounted bearing retainer 394 clockwise to the first position. Fig.21The hand H continues to rotate the ring-mounted bearing retainer 394 clockwise so that the belt B1 begins to be wound around the pulley 208. As the hand H continues to rotate the ring-mounted bearing retainer 394 clockwise, the slot 397 returns to communicate with the first window 398, and the belt B1 becomes completely wound around the rear of the pulley 208, wherein a portion of the belt B1 extends out through the first window 398, as shown in FIG. Fig. 22 shown. Fig.23 It shows that the band B1 Fig. 22 The portion of the 400 which has extended out of the first window 398 is pushed through the first window 398 and back through the second window 401. Fig.24 , the band B1 is completely pulled through the second window 401 in the bearing housing 372 and is ready for Fig.14 The motor shaft 204 is engaged.

[0100] In certain embodiments of the surface cleaner 10, a motor-driven centrifugal pump 400 rotatably driven by the motor 202 on the intermediate shaft 206 via the belt B1 may be self-priming. The centrifugal pump 400 is part of a fluid distribution system operable to deliver fluid to the surface S to be cleaned. The fluid distribution system also includes a supply tank 26 that holds the fluid and is in fluid communication with an inlet 402 of the centrifugal pump 400. The inlet 402 is located at Fig.25 2 and may be in communication with a supply tank 26 via one or more conduits or the like. The fluid may be water, a cleaning solution, or a mixture of the two. Figure 6 The spray outlet 59 is also part of the fluid distribution system and is in fluid communication with the outlet 404 of the centrifugal pump 400 that provides pressurized fluid to the spray outlet 59. The outlet 404 is Fig.25 and Fig.26 Shown in.

[0101] Specifically, the centrifugal pump 400 includes a housing 406 that defines an inlet 402 through which fluid is drawn and which is accessible from an exterior side 407 of the housing 406 (see Fig.25 ) extends to the inner side 408 of the housing 406 (see Fig.26). The housing 406 also defines an outlet 404 through which the pressurized fluid is discharged, and the outlet 404 extends from the inner side 408 of the housing 406 back to the outer side 407 of the housing 406. A cover 410 is fixed to the housing 406 and surrounds the inner side 408. The inner side 408 of the housing 406 defines a volute scroll 412 in fluid communication with the inlet 402 and an expansion chamber 414 in fluid communication with the outlet 404. The inner side 408 of the housing 406 also defines a throat 416 and a seepage hole 418, the throat connecting the volute scroll 412 to the expansion chamber 414, and the seepage hole connecting the expansion chamber 414 to the volute scroll 412. The centrifugal pump 400 also includes a pump impeller 420 which is rotatably mounted to the intermediate shaft 206 and is configured to rotate in the volute scroll 412 when driven by the motor 202 via the belt B1 and the intermediate shaft 206 to pump the fluid from the inlet 402 to the outlet 404 through the throat 416 and the expansion chamber 414, thereby pressurizing the fluid at the outlet 404 compared to the fluid pressure at the inlet 402. Fig.26 Also shown are the intermediate shaft 206 , a pump bracket 422 , and a plurality of bushings 424 , 426 , and 428 , which secure the pump cover 410 to a structure within the base 12 , such as the base housing 36 .

[0102] Typical centrifugal pumps are not self-priming because they cannot positively displace air, which can occur due to cavitation in the volute scroll, and require intervention to establish self-priming when cavitation occurs. To overcome this, prior art solutions include providing a pump priming system that includes a priming group and a reservoir located adjacent to the pump, a plurality of valves, and further utilizing a vacuum motor to remove air from the pump priming system. This solution requires a plurality of additional components that occupy additional space in the base of such a cleaner.

[0103] However, since the centrifugal pump 400 is designed to be self-priming, the air is separated from the fluid, so that a fluid seal is maintained at the pump impeller 420, and a fluid reserve is maintained to refill the volute scroll 412, and if the fluid supply is exhausted, a small amount of suction is maintained at the eye of the pump impeller 420, all without the need for additional components. Fig.25 and Fig.26The flow path shown by the arrows in is directed through the centrifugal pump 400. Unpressurized fluid from the supply tank 26 (flow as shown by arrow 430) enters the inlet 402 and empties into the volute scroll 412. Assuming that the intermediate shaft 206 and the pump wheel 420 are rotating, the flow in the volute scroll 412 is represented by the flow arrow 432. Next, the fluid is driven along the flow path through the throat 416 to the expansion chamber 414, as shown by the flow arrow 434. Once in the expansion chamber 414, the fluid is discharged from the outlet 404 along the flow path 436 at sufficient pressure. If air is present, the air will be separated from the fluid in the expansion chamber 414, and the fluid that is not driven out through the outlet 404 will return to the volute scroll 412 through the seepage hole 418 along the flow path indicated by the arrow 438, thereby starting the centrifugal pump 400.

[0104] The centrifugal pump 400 is specifically configured to optimize the ability to maintain suction at the inlet 402 and to have the ability to separate air from the fluid in the expansion chamber 414 while maintaining sufficient pressure at the outlet 404 and sufficient drainage back through the seepage hole 418 to maintain the pump 400 in a self-priming state. Specifically, Fig. 27 Shown along Fig.25 A cross section of the pump housing 406 taken at the outlet 404 along line 27 - 27 in FIG. Fig. 27 The outlet 404 is indicated to have a cross-sectional area AR1 (eg, the area of ​​the flow path 436 defined by the inner perimeter 440 of the pump housing 406 at the outlet 404 , which may be generally circular). Fig.28 Shown along Fig.26 A cross section of the pump housing 406 taken at the throat 416 along line 28-28 in FIG. 4. The pump cover 410 is Fig.28404, and the pump housing 406 is shown in phantom and with a flat inner surface 442, thereby forming a boundary of the throat 416 at the throat 416 together with the housing 406. The cross-sectional area AR2 of the throat 416 is defined by the pump housing 406 and the pump cover 410 at the cross-section shown, and can be generally square or rectangular. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the ratio of the cross-sectional area AR2 of the throat 416 to the cross-sectional area AR1 of the outlet 404 is about 1.35 to about 1.55, about 1.35 to about 1.5, about 1.35 to about 1.45, about 1.35 to about 1.4, about 1.4 to about 1.55, about 1.4 to about 1.5, about 1.4 to about 1.45, about 1.45 to about 1.55, or about 1.45 to about 1.5. In some aspects, the ratio of the cross-sectional area AR2 of the throat 416 to the cross-sectional area AR1 of the outlet 404 is about 1.3, about 1.35, about 1.36, about 1.37, about 1.38, about 1.39, about 1.4, about 1.41, about 1.42, about 1.43, about 1.44, about 1.45, about 1.46, about 1.47, about 1.48, about 1.49, about 1.5, about 1.51, about 1.52, about 1.53, about 1.54, or about 1.55. In an exemplary embodiment, the ratio of the cross-sectional area AR2 of the throat 416 to the cross-sectional area AR1 of the outlet 404 is about 1.44.

[0105] In addition, when the pump cover 410 is fixed to the pump housing 406, the volute scroll 412 has a volume V1. The volume extends from the inlet 402 to the throat 416 and includes the entire area where the pump impeller 420 rotates. The volume is partially defined by the geometry of the inner surface of the pump housing 406 at the volute scroll 412 and the geometry of the inner surface 433 of the pump cover 410 facing the pump impeller 420. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the ratio of the volume V1 of the volute scroll 412 to the cross-sectional area AR1 of the outlet 404 is about 175 to about 195, about 175 to about 190, about 175 to about 185, about 175 to about 180, about 180 to about 195, about 180 to about 190, about 180 to about 185, about 185 to about 195, or about 185 to about 190. In some aspects, the ratio of the volume V1 of the volute scroll 412 to the cross-sectional area AR1 of the outlet 404 is about 175, about 176, about 177, about 178, about 179, about 180, about 181, about 182, about 183, about 184, about 185, about 186, about 190, about 191, about 192, about 193, about 194, or about 195. In an exemplary embodiment, the ratio of the volume V1 of the volute scroll 412 to the cross-sectional area AR1 of the outlet 404 is about 182. With these specific ratios, the centrifugal pump 400 can be operated to provide sufficient pressure at the outlet 404 while maintaining self-priming flow at the volute scroll 412.

[0106] Fig.29 Yes, you can Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a fluid distribution system 500 implemented on the surface cleaner 10 or on a different surface cleaner. The fluid distribution system 500 can be implemented in the surface cleaner 10 to provide the ability to clean with a fluid applied to the cleaning surface S at a relatively low flow rate (flow rate, such as the volume of fluid supplied per minute) or a relatively high flow rate. The relatively low flow rate is referred to as a low flow operating state, and the relatively high flow rate is referred to as a high flow operating state. Fig.29 In FIG. 5 , the fluid distribution system 500 is depicted as operating in a low flow operating state. Fig.30 , fluid distribution system 500 is depicted as operating in a high flow operating state.

[0107] refer to Fig.29 , the fluid distribution system 500 includes a fluid supply 526. When implemented on the surface cleaner 10, the fluid supply 526 can be the same as the cleaning fluid supply of the supply tank 26. The fluid distribution system 500 also includes an electric motor 530 and a centrifugal pump 532. The centrifugal pump 532 is configured to be driven by the electric motor 530 and has an inlet 534 and an outlet 536. The inlet 534 is in fluid communication with the fluid supply 526, such as via a fluid conduit 538.

[0108] The pump control switch 540 is operatively connected to the centrifugal pump 532. When the pump control switch 540 is in the on state, the rectifier 542 connects the electric motor 530 to the centrifugal pump 532. The on state of the pump control switch 540 is Fig.30 540 is depicted as being closed. When the pump control switch 540 is in the open state, the electric motor 530 is not connected to the centrifugal pump 532. The open state of the pump control switch 540 is Fig.29 540 is depicted as being turned on. The pump control switch 540 may be a mode selection rocker switch disposed on the surface cleaner 10 for operation by a user, and may be labeled, for example, as a low flow for a position corresponding to an off state (switch open), and as a high flow for a position corresponding to an on state (switch closed). Thus, when the pump control switch 540 is in the off state, the centrifugal pump 532 is turned off, and when the pump control switch 540 is in the on state, the centrifugal pump 532 is turned on.

[0109] The outlet 536 of the centrifugal pump 532 is in fluid communication with the inlet 545 of the pressure valve 546, such as via the fluid conduit 543. When the centrifugal pump 532 is off (i.e., the pump 532 is off when the switch 540 is in the off state (open)), the fluid from the fluid supply 526 is simply discharged from the inlet 534 to the outlet 536 through the centrifugal pump 532 to reach the pressure valve 546, and the centrifugal pump 532 does not add pressure to the fluid. The pressure at this level is indicated as being supplied to Fig.29 The fluid in the pressure valve 546 has a pressure P. The centrifugal pump 532 has the benefit of allowing fluid to pass through the centrifugal pump even when it is closed, unlike a positive displacement pump that must be energized to an on state in order for fluid to pass through the pump. When the centrifugal pump 532 is turned on (i.e., the pump 532 is on when the switch 540 is in the on state (closed)), the centrifugal pump 532 pressurizes the fluid so that the fluid entering the fluid conduit 543 through the outlet 536 is pressurized to a pressure level higher than the fluid in the conduit 538. The pressure at this level is indicated as being supplied to Fig.30 The fluid in the pressure valve 546 has a pressure P1.

[0110] The pressure valve 546 can be opened to provide a larger flow through the pressure valve 546 to the outlet 548 of the pressure valve 546 at a higher pressure at the inlet 545. For example, the pressure valve 546 can have a first flow area when under a fluid pressure less than a predetermined fluid pressure P1, and a second flow area greater than the first flow area when under a fluid pressure greater than or equal to the predetermined fluid pressure P1. The pressure valve 546 includes a valve housing 547 that defines a cavity 557 that accommodates a valve member 550. The valve member 550 is biased toward the inlet 545 and against the inner wall 551 of the housing 547 by a spring 549. Fig.29 The closed position CP shown. The valve member 550 has an orifice 552 having a relatively small flow area, referred to as a first flow area, through which the fluid must pass when the valve member 550 is in the closed position. For example, the first flow area is the cross-sectional area of ​​the orifice 552. Therefore, when the fluid pressure at the inlet 545 is less than the first predetermined pressure P1, the valve member 550 limits the flow to a relatively low flow rate.

[0111] When the fluid pressure at the inlet 545 is greater than or equal to the predetermined pressure P1, the force of the spring 549 is overcome, and the valve member 550 is moved away from the wall 551 to the open position OP by the pressure of the fluid. Fig.30As shown. In the open position OP, the fluid can pass through the valve 546, not only through the orifice 552 in the valve member 550, but also around the periphery of the valve member 550. Therefore, when the valve member 550 is in the open position OP, the valve 546 has a larger second flow area. Specifically, the second flow area is the sum of the area of ​​the orifice 552 and the area of ​​the annular channel 553 established between the periphery of the valve member 550 and the side wall 555 of the valve housing 547. The spring stiffness of the spring 549 and the affected surface area (e.g., the surface area of ​​the bottom side of the valve member 550 facing the inlet 545) are selected so that when the pump 532 is turned off, the valve member 550 is maintained in the closed position CP, whereby the fluid pressure at the inlet 545 is less than the first predetermined pressure P1. When pump 532 is energized, the fluid pressure at inlet 545 will be greater than or equal to the first predetermined pressure P1, and the increase in drive flow will apply force to valve member 550, compressing spring 549, thereby opening additional flow area around the periphery of valve member 550 and increasing flow through valve 546.

[0112] The fluid dispensing system 500 may also include a solenoid valve 560, which is downstream of the pressure valve 546 and connected to the outlet 548 of the pressure valve 546 through a fluid conduit 561. The solenoid valve 560 may have an energized state and a de-energized state, in which the fluid flows through the solenoid valve 560, and in which the solenoid valve 560 completely blocks the flow of fluid. The trigger 562 may be operated by a user to select the energized state of the solenoid valve 560, and in which the trigger 562 may be operated by a user to select the energized state of the solenoid valve 560. Fig.29 and Fig.30 560 is represented as a switch. For example, a user can pull the trigger 562 to the on position to close the circuit from the power supply to the solenoid valve 560, selecting the energized state of the solenoid valve 560, which opens the solenoid valve 560 to allow flow. When the trigger 562 is in the off position, the de-energized state of the solenoid valve 560 is selected, and the solenoid valve 560 is closed to prevent flow. When a high flow state or a low flow state is selected at the switch 540, the trigger 562 can be operated in this manner and can be represented to the user as an on-off switch. The fluid application device 570 is downstream of the solenoid valve 560 and is operable to apply fluid to the surface to be cleaned. For example, the fluid application device 570 may include a Figure 6 Manifold 57 having a spray outlet 59 is shown and discussed. When trigger 562 is moved to the energized state, solenoid valve 560 opens, and fluid flows from outlet 548 of valve 546 through solenoid valve 560 and is supplied to fluid application device 570. The fluid at fluid application device 570 will be in a relatively low flow state when switch 540 is open (pump 532 is off), and will be in a relatively high flow state when switch 540 is closed (pump 532 is on).

[0113] In other embodiments, the fluid dispensing system 500 can be configured so that the trigger 562 can activate both the pump 532 and the solenoid valve 560 depending on how the mode selection switch 540 is oriented. In still other embodiments, a circuit interruption switch can be used to open the circuit for the pump 532 and / or the solenoid valve 560. If a hose is required, the pump 532 can be omitted from the interruption. The logic software can provide enhanced operation according to the alternate mode selection method. In still other embodiments, the solenoid valve 560 can be placed before the spray bar, or a mechanical valve can be used instead of the solenoid valve 560.

[0114] The fluid dispensing system 500 with the centrifugal pump 532 may be used in a surface cleaner, such as the surface cleaner 10 when the centrifugal pump 400 driven on the intermediate shaft 206 as discussed herein is not provided. Alternatively, the fluid dispensing system 500 may be used with a motor drive system with the centrifugal pump 400 in place of the centrifugal pump 532, but since the fluid dispensing system 500 relies on electronic control of the pump to an on state or an off state, an electric motor 530 is required to drive the pump 400.

[0115] Fig.31 and Fig.32 Shows Figure 1 The docking tray 18 and the filling cup 20 supported on the docking tray 18. The docking tray 18 can be referred to as a cleaning system for periodically cleaning the agitator assembly 46 of the base 12 after the surface cleaner 10 is used one or more times. The docking tray 18 has a front tray portion 18A and a rear tray portion 18B, and when the surface cleaner 10 is docked, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, the front portion of the base 12 (including the spout 21 and the agitator assembly 46) is located in the front tray portion 18A. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The wheels 38 are snapped into the recesses 602 to hold the surface cleaner 10 on the docking tray 18 .

[0116] The docking tray 18 defines a reservoir 604, which may be referred to as a main reservoir. The docking tray 18 has a bottom surface 606 that is angled downward from a rear wall 608 defining the rear of the main reservoir 604 to a front wall 610 defining the front of the main reservoir 604, such that the depth of the main reservoir 604 increases toward the front F, and the fluid in the docking tray 18 collects at the front of the main reservoir 604.

[0117] The tray 18 also defines a filling slot 612 extending along one side of the main reservoir 604. The filling slot 612 is defined between the right side wall 614 and the middle wall 616 of the tray 18. Similar to the main reservoir 604, the depth of the filling slot 612 may also increase from the rear wall 615 of the filling slot 612 to the front wall 617 of the filling slot 612. The middle wall 616 separates the main reservoir 604 from the filling slot 612. The main reservoir 604 extends from the middle wall 616 to the left side wall 618. The docking tray 18 also defines a channel 620 extending through the middle wall 616 and connecting the main reservoir 604 with the filling slot 612. The channel 620 is at the front of the filling slot 612, at or near the front wall 617, or at least closer to the front wall 617 than the rear wall 615. Compared to the filling slot 612, the main reservoir 604 extends further forward toward the front wall 610 of the docking tray 18. In other words, the front wall 610 of the main reservoir 604 is further forward than the front wall 617 of the filling slot 612. Both the main reservoir 604 and the filling slot 612 are open from the top side.

[0118] Thus, the docking tray 18 is configured so that any fluid is deposited in the tray 18 after the base 12 can be parked on the tray 18. With the base 12 parked on the tray 18, the fluid is injected into the fill slot 612 and flows into the main reservoir 604 through the channel 620. The fill slot 612 helps prevent fluid from splashing out of the tray 18, which may occur if the fluid is first injected into the main reservoir 604 and then the base 12 is parked on the tray 18, or if the fluid is directly injected into the main reservoir 604 (e.g., injected into the small space between the outer edge of the base 12 and the tray 18) with the base 12 already parked on the tray 18. Thus, the tray 18 allows for easier cleaning of the brush roll 54 due to the convenient fill slot 612.

[0119] When docked on the tray 18, the nozzle 21 and brush roll 54 may be cleaned with solution in the main reservoir 604 by powering the surface cleaner 10 (ie, selecting the on state). The steps for cleaning the brush roll 54 using the tray 18 are listed below.

[0120] Step 1. Place the base 12 on the tray 18 with the spine assembly 14 in an upright position.

[0121] Step 2. Inject cleaning fluid (e.g., water, detergent, or a mixture of water and detergent) into the filling tank 612. The filling cup 20 can be used to inject the fluid. The fluid will flow from the filling tank 612 to the main reservoir 604 through the channel 620, where the fluid can contact the brush roller 54 and the suction nozzle 21.

[0122] Step 3. Open the accessory hose door 29. When the accessory hose door 29 is open, fluid will not flow to the recovery tank 28.

[0123] Step 4. Press the release button 300 and move the ridge assembly 14 to Figure 2 The tilted position of the agitator assembly 46 (including the brush roller 54) is lowered (as described herein) so that the agitator assembly is more fully in contact with the cleaning fluid in the main reservoir 604.

[0124] Step 5. Turn on the surface cleaner 10. In an embodiment, for example, the surface cleaner 10 may be configured to include a Fig.29 and Fig.30 The trigger 562 is described in the mode of dispensing liquid and steam. However, during the cleaning of the tray 18 brush, the surface cleaner 10 can be in any of the various modes and the user is not instructed to pull the trigger 562.

[0125] Step 6. Allow surface cleaner 10 to run to clean brushroll 54 for a predetermined amount of time (eg, 30 seconds).

[0126] Step 7. Pivot the spine assembly 14 back to the upright position.

[0127] Step 8. Close the accessory hose door 29 to allow the surface cleaner 10 to draw liquid from the main reservoir 604 into the recovery tank 28 through the suction nozzle 21 .

[0128] Step 9. Remove the recovery tank 28 from the ridge assembly 14 .

[0129] Step 10. Empty the recovery tank 28, for example into a sink.

[0130] In some embodiments, the recovery tank 28 may be secured to the spine assembly 14 via a spring-biased mounting mechanism 702 in the cover 35, such that removing the recovery tank 28 from the spine assembly 14 in step 9 may include several sub-steps, including depressing a handle 33 of the cover 35 pivotally secured to the recovery tank 28 to move the handle 33 to a lowered position ( Fig.34 The handle 33 and the cover 35 are shown in dotted lines. Figure 1 The handle 33 is shown in Figure 1 After depressing the handle 33, step 9 may include the sub-steps of tilting the top of the recovery tank 28 near the handle 33 outward toward the front F, and the sub-step of lifting the recovery tank 28 upward and away from the ridge assembly 14.

[0131] Fig.33 A recovery tank assembly 700 is shown, which includes a recovery tank 28, a cover 35, a handle 33, and a spring biased mounting mechanism 702 (in Figure 36 to Figure 37), as well as other components and features as discussed herein. The recovery tank assembly 700 is specifically designed to be disposed on the lower platform 24A of the frame 24 (e.g. Fig.38 24) and is easily removed by first pivoting the handle 33 to the lowered position to disengage the recovery tank assembly 700 from the frame 24 and then lifting the recovery tank assembly 700 away from the frame 24.

[0132] More specifically, when the recovery tank assembly 700 is placed on the frame 24, the spring biased mounting mechanism 702 is operable to selectively secure the cover 35 to the frame 24 by automatically engaging the frame 24. Fig.36 and Fig.37 The spring biased mounting mechanism 702 has a body 701 having a first top protrusion 704A, a second top protrusion 704B, a first side arm 706A and a second side arm 706B. The body 701 also has pillars 710A, 710B (such as Fig.43 The body 701 includes a front rail 716 extending laterally between the top protrusions 704A, 704B and spaced-apart legs 718A, 718B extending rearwardly to the pivot posts 708A, 708B, respectively. The bottom side of the spring biased mounting mechanism 702 has a spring 714 (as shown) for securing the spring 714 to the body 701. Fig.43 The spring 714 abuts against a surface 715 of the bottom wall 35A of the cover 35, thereby biasing the body 701 to an upward position (e.g., away from the surface 715).

[0133] like Fig.33 and Fig.34 As shown, the cover 35 has a first side window 720A in the left side wall 35L of the cover 35 and a second side window 720B in the right side wall 35R of the cover 35. When the spring biased mounting mechanism 702 is disposed on the lower wall 35A of the cover 35, the first side arm 706A extends through the first side window 720A and the second side arm 706B extends through the second side window 720B.

[0134] Fig.33 and Fig.34 The top wall 35T of the cover 35 is shown to include a first top window 722A and a second top window 722B spaced apart from the first top window 722A. The spacing of the top windows 722A, 722B is such that when the body 701 is biased away from the bottom wall 35A by the spring 714, the first top protrusion 704A extends through the first top window 722A and the second top protrusion 704B extends through the second top window 722B.

[0135] The handle 33 has spaced-apart side arms 33A, 33B and a central section 33C connecting the side arms 33A, 33B. The side arms 33A of the handle 33 rest on the side arms 706A of the spring biased mounting mechanism 702, and the side arms 33B of the handle 33 rest on the side arms 706B of the spring biased mounting mechanism 702. The biasing force of the spring 714 is sufficient to keep the central section 33C of the handle 33 in the absence of an external force pressing the handle 33. Fig.33 The raised position (also referred to as the elevated position) is shown.

[0136] The ends of the side arms 33A, 33B are pivotally held on the outer hubs 726A, 726B of the recovery tank 28 (see Fig.44 ), and the handle 33 pivots about a pivot axis extending through the center of the hubs 726A, 726B. Optionally, the handle 33 may have a locking feature that allows the handle 33 to be selectively locked to the cover 35. For example, each of the side walls 35L, 35R of the cover 35 may have an arcuate rib placed on the corresponding hub 726A, 726B. The inner side of each side arm 33A, 33B of the handle 33 may have an arcuate rib that locks when the handle 33 is in the Fig.34 The lifting position or Fig.34 In the lowered position 33D (also referred to as the pressed position) shown in dashed lines in FIG. 1 , the arcuate ribs on each side wall of the handle are placed on the arcuate ribs of the corresponding side walls 35L, 35R. In this embodiment, the handle 33 can be moved from Fig.34 The position shown is pivoted approximately 90 degrees counterclockwise to move the ribs on the handle 33 so that they no longer rest on the ribs on the lid 35 , thereby allowing the lid 35 to be lifted from the recovery tank 28 .

[0137] When the central section 33C is pressed to the lowered position, the side arms 33A, 33B of the handle 33 interfere with the side arms 706A, 706B, thereby pushing the side arms 706A, 706B of the spring biased mounting mechanism 702 downward within the side windows 720A, 720B, compressing the spring 714 and simultaneously moving the top protrusions 704A, 704B downward, causing the top protrusions 704A, 704B to be lowered to the extent that they no longer extend through the top windows 722A, 722B.

[0138] Fig.38 FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of surface cleaner 10 with both recovery tank assembly 700 and supply tank 26 removed. Frame 24 includes lower platform 24A and upper platform 24B. Supply tank 26 may be placed on upper platform 24B to rest above recovery tank assembly 700, such as Figure 1 The recovery tank assembly 700 is configured to be assembled to the frame 24, wherein the bottom wall 28B of the recovery tank 28 (eg Fig.35 24A. Fig.38 The lower platform 24A is shown with an opening that is a recovery duct outlet 729 in the base 12 and another opening in front of the recovery duct outlet 729 that is a motor duct inlet 731 in the base 12. The suction air flow that begins at the nozzle 21 and flows through the ducts within the base 12 and / or the ridge assembly 14 reaches the recovery duct outlet 729, where the mixed air and liquid flow is received by the recovery tank 28, as discussed herein. The mixed air and liquid flow can be referred to as working liquid / air because it includes both liquid and air, as well as the motor duct inlet 731 from the motor duct. Figure 2 The air / liquid separator system 800 discussed herein enables the recovery tank 28 to collect liquid in the mixed air and liquid stream generated in the base 12. More specifically, the air / liquid separation system 800 separates liquid from the mixed air and liquid stream, deposits the liquid in the recovery tank 28 for subsequent disposal, and provides the separated air to the motor duct inlet 731, protecting the motor assembly therein from the liquid. The motor duct inlet 731 is shown as having a screen extending above the inlet 731.

[0139] Fig.39 The lower side 734 of the upper platform 24B is shown to include a first aperture 732A and a second aperture 732B spaced apart from the first aperture 732A. The apertures 732A, 732B may be recesses or notches in the lower side 734 of the upper platform 24B. The recovery tank 28 is configured to be assembled to the frame 24, wherein the cover 35 is fixed to the recovery tank 28, the first top protrusion 704A extends in the first aperture 732A, the second top protrusion 704B extends in the second aperture 732B, and the handle 33 is in the raised position. When the recovery tank 28 is mounted on the ridge assembly 14, the user presses the handle 33 to the lowered position 33D, as discussed, which presses the side arms 706A, 706B, thereby lowering the top protrusions 704A, 704B so that these top protrusions do not extend through the top windows 722A, 722B, thereby allowing the recovery tank 28 to slide toward the rear wall 24C of the frame 24. More specifically, the recovery tank assembly 700 slides toward the rear wall 24C of the frame 24 until the bottom wall 28B is fully seated on the lower platform 24A. During insertion, the top wall 35T slides along the underside 734 of the upper platform 24B.

[0140] After the recovery tank 28 is fully seated on the lower platform 24A, the top windows 722A, 722B will be located directly below the orifices 732A, 732B, respectively. At this time, the release handle 33 releases the downward pressure on the side arms 706A, 706B, and thus releases the downward pressure on the spring 714, allowing the top protrusions 704A, 704B to move back to the original position. Fig.33The extended position shown in FIG. 1 shows a top projection extending into the apertures 732A, 732B in the frame 24. When the top projections 704A, 704B are fully seated in the apertures 732A, 732B, the liquid / air mixture inlet 740 (also referred to as the working liquid / air inlet) in the bottom wall 28B of the recovery tank 28 (see FIG. Fig.35 ) will be located directly above the recovery duct outlet 729, and the separation air outlet 742 (also known as the working air outlet) in the bottom wall 28B will be located directly above the motor duct inlet 731.

[0141] To remove the recovery tank assembly 700 from the frame 24 , the handle 33 is depressed to the lowered position 33D to withdraw the top projections 704A, 704B from the apertures 732A, 732B and allow the recovery tank assembly 700 to tilt forward and lift away from the frame 24 .

[0142] The air / liquid separation system 800 of the surface cleaner 10 is used to separate liquid from exhausted air at the recovery duct outlet 729 to provide separated air (e.g., free of liquid) at the motor duct inlet 731. The air / liquid separation system 800 includes the recovery tank 28, a plurality of vertical walls disposed within the tank chamber 802 of the recovery tank 28 and defining an inlet stack 806 and an outlet stack 808 as discussed herein, a cover 35, and a float 830 disposed in a tank chamber 802.

[0143] refer to Fig.44 , the recovery tank 28 has a bottom wall 28B, a front side wall 28A, a rear side wall 28C, a right side wall 28R, and a left side wall 28L. The side walls 28A, 28C, 28R, and 28L extend upward from the bottom wall 28B and define a tank chamber 802 and a top opening 804. The cover 35 can be fixed to the recovery tank 28 to extend above the top opening 804, such as Fig.33 For example, the lower peripheral edge of the cover 35 may fit within the channel at the top of the side walls 28A, 28C, 28R, and 28L that define the perimeter of the top opening 804.

[0144] Fig.44 Also shown are a plurality of vertical walls 806, 808, and 809 disposed within tank chamber 802. Vertical wall 806 surrounds a vertical column and may be referred to as inlet stack 806. Vertical wall 808 surrounds another vertical column and may be referred to as outlet stack 808. For stability, connector wall 809 extends between and connects the exterior of inlet stack 806 and the exterior of outlet stack 808.

[0145] The inlet stack 806 extends upward and around the liquid / air mixture inlet 740 of the bottom wall 28B, so that the liquid / air mixture inlet 740 (also referred to as the working liquid / air inlet) is the inlet of the inlet stack 806 at the bottom of the inlet stack 806. The inlet stack 806 has an outlet 810 at the top of the inlet stack 806. The outlet stack 808 extends upward around the separation air outlet 742 (also referred to as the working air outlet), which is also the outlet of the outlet stack 808 at the bottom of the outlet stack 808. The outlet stack 808 has an inlet 812 at the top of the outlet stack 808, and the outlet of the outlet stack 808 is the separation air outlet 742 (also referred to as the working air outlet) and is located at the bottom of the outlet stack 808. Therefore, the mixed air and liquid flow is introduced into the recovery tank 28 at the bottom of the inlet stack 806, as shown by arrow 850, and the separated air is discharged from the recovery tank 28 at the bottom of the outlet stack 808, as shown by arrow 852.

[0146] Reference Fig.40 and Fig.41 In addition to the bottom wall 35A, the cover 35 also includes a top wall 35B and an inner wall 35C extending between the top wall 35B and the bottom wall 35A. The bottom wall 35A has a first cover chamber opening 820 and a second cover chamber opening 821 behind the first cover chamber opening 820. The second cover chamber opening 821 is at the entrance 812 of the outlet stack 808. The inner wall 35C extends around the first cover chamber opening 820 and the second cover chamber opening 821, so that a cover chamber 822 is defined between the top wall 35B, the bottom wall 35A and the inner wall 35C above the cover chamber openings 820, 821 and the entrance 812 of the outlet stack 808.

[0147] Another inner wall 35D extends upward from the bottom wall 35A and extends in front of the inner wall 35C. The top wall 35E extends above the inner wall 35C to define an inverted channel 355 leading to the tank chamber 802 and above the outlet 810 of the inlet stack 806. The inner front portion of the inner wall 35C, the inner wall 35D and the top wall 35E act as baffles 35C, 35D, 35E above the outlet 810, which guide the mixed fluid and the fluid in the air that leave the inlet stack 806 through the outlet 810 to fall downward into the tank chamber 802 by gravity, as shown in FIG. Fig.40 As shown by arrow 854 in FIG. The air in the mixed fluid and air will separate from the liquid and gather above the liquid level in the tank chamber 802.

[0148] The float 830 is disposed in the tank chamber 802 and is operatively attached to the cover 35 and can vertically translate relative to the cover 35. More specifically, the cover 35 includes float guide walls 840, 842, 843 extending downward from the bottom wall 35A, such as Fig.42As shown. The float 830 moves up and down within the tank chamber 802 within the area defined by the guide walls 840, 842, 843. The guide slot 844 extends through each of the guide walls 842, 843. The float 830 may include a side extension extending through the guide slot 844, so that the float 830 is operatively attached to the cover 35 and can be vertically translated relative to the cover 35 between a lowest position and a highest position, in which the guide extension is located at the bottom of the guide slot 844, and in which the float 830 closes the first cover chamber opening 820.

[0149] The float 830 is configured to close the first cover chamber opening 820 when the liquid in the tank chamber 802 reaches a predetermined liquid level PL. In other words, the float 830 rises upward on the liquid collected in the tank chamber 802 toward the first cover chamber opening 820 until the liquid reaches the predetermined liquid level PL. Fig.40 When the predetermined liquid level PL indicated by the dotted line in FIG. 8 is reached, the top of the float 830 closes the first cover chamber opening 820. When the liquid in the tank chamber 802 is lower than the predetermined liquid level PL, the separated air accumulated above the liquid in the tank chamber 802 can leave the tank chamber 802 through the first cover chamber opening 820 and enter the cover chamber 822 (as shown by arrow 856), and then enter the outlet stack 808 through the second cover chamber opening 821 and the inlet 812. Fig.40 and Fig.41 , the float 830 is shown in a closed position 830A in which the top of the float 830 fits into and seals against the first cover chamber opening 820. However, if the liquid level in the tank chamber 802 is below the predetermined liquid level PL, the float 830 will move downward from the closed position 830A shown to the open position, thereby moving the top of the float 830 away from the first cover chamber opening 820.

[0150] The first cover chamber opening 820 is arranged in the tank chamber 802 to be higher than the outlet 810 of the inlet stack 806 and higher than the inlet 812 of the outlet stack 808, as shown in FIG. Fig.40 and Fig.41 806 are oriented front to back in the tank chamber 802. In other words, the inlet stack 806 is disposed behind the outlet stack 808, and the first cover chamber opening 820 is disposed in front of the outlet stack 808. Additionally, since the first cover chamber opening 820, the outlet stack 808, and the inlet stack 806 are oriented front to back in the tank chamber 802, this causes the float 830, the outlet stack 808, and the inlet stack 806 to be oriented front to back in the tank chamber 802.

[0151] Once removed from the frame 24, the handle 33, cover 35 and attached float 830 may be removed from the recovery tank 28 as a unit, as shown. Fig.41As shown, the top opening 804 is exposed by simply pulling the handle 33 upward to lift the cover 35 from the recovery tank 28 or by grasping the sides of the cover 35 and pulling the cover 35 upward. When the handle 33, cover 35 and attached float 830 are removed, the inlet stack 806 and outlet stack 808 remain within the tank chamber 802. By tilting the recovery tank 28, the recovery tank 28 can be easily emptied of the captured liquid separated from the working liquid air flow.

[0152] Fig.45 is a partial side view of a portion of a fluid distribution system 900 that may be included in surface cleaner 10, and Fig.46 yes Fig.45 A partial perspective view of a fluid distribution system 900. Fig.45 , the fluid distribution system 900 is shown as being in a position relative to the surface to be cleaned S when the base 12 is as shown in FIG. Figure 2 When the device is placed on the surface S in the use position as in FIG. Fig.45 and Fig.46 The portion of the fluid distribution system 900 shown may be primarily housed within Figure 1 The fluid distribution system 900 includes a heater 902 that generates steam. The fluid distribution system 900 is configured such that once the steam leaves the heater 902, the conduit path 906 of the dispenser 905 for directing the steam to the surface S to be cleaned includes only a horizontal or downwardly inclined portion (i.e., a "downhill" portion) and does not have any upwardly inclined portion. With this downhill configuration, after the surface cleaner 10 is turned off, there will be no water accumulation in the conduit path 906 due to the cooled steam, so when the surface cleaner 10 is subsequently powered on, there will be no cooled accumulated water in the fluid distribution system 900.

[0153] The heater 902 can be in fluid communication with the supply tank 26 and can be operated to heat the liquid sufficiently to generate steam. The heater 902 has a steam outlet 904. The steam travels from the steam outlet 904 to the distributor 905 via a conduit path 906. The distributor 905 has a distributor outlet 908, through which the steam is distributed to the surface to be cleaned S. The distributor 905 can be integrated into the manifold 57, as shown.

[0154] The conduit path 906 has a conduit inlet 910 at the steam outlet 904 of the heater 902 and a conduit outlet 912 at the dispenser 905. When the base is resting on the surface S, such as when the surface cleaner 10 is in a Figure 2 In the upright or inclined position shown, the conduit inlet 910 is disposed further above the surface S to be cleaned than the conduit outlet 912 .

[0155] The conduit path 906 may include any conduit, such as a pipe, tube, hose, connector, valve, etc., which provides an arrangement path for steam to be directed from the heater 902 to the distributor 905. In the illustrated embodiment, the conduit path 906 includes an upper conduit 906A, a valve assembly 906B, and a lower conduit 906C. The conduit inlet 910 is the inlet of the upper conduit 906A, and the conduit outlet 912 is the outlet of the lower conduit 906C. The valve assembly 906B can be operatively connected and controlled by the user selecting a steam mode, such as opening the valve assembly to direct steam to the distributor 905 through the lower conduit 906C. Fig.46 , upper conduit 906A travels downward with a series of vertical segments connected by downwardly sloping segments or horizontal segments without any segments tilting upward in the direction of flow from conduit inlet 910 to valve assembly 906B. Similarly, lower conduit 906C travels downward with a series of horizontal segments connected by downwardly sloping segments without any segments tilting upward in the direction of flow from valve assembly 906B to conduit outlet 912. In other words, the flow of steam along conduit path 906 in the direction from conduit inlet 910 to conduit outlet 912 is free of any upward tilt because conduit path 906 has no upwardly sloping portion. With this arrangement, when surface cleaner 10 is turned off, steam has no opportunity to pool within conduit path 906, thereby avoiding dispensing of cooled liquid in a subsequently selected steam dispensing mode.

[0156] The following clauses provide exemplary configurations of the surface cleaners and other articles disclosed herein.

[0157] Item 1. A surface cleaner comprising: a base, the base being constructed to move on a surface to be cleaned, the base comprising a base shell defining an agitator chamber, an agitator assembly housed in the agitator chamber, and an agitator lift rod, the agitator lift rod being supported on the base shell and being translatable relative to the base shell between a forward position and a rearward position; a ridge assembly, the ridge assembly being used to guide the base on the surface to be cleaned, the ridge assembly being pivotally connected to the base and being pivotable relative to the base about a pivot axis between a first position and a second position; wherein the agitator assembly comprises an agitator support frame and a rotatable support A rotatable agitator supported on the agitator support frame; wherein the ridge assembly is constructed to operatively engage the rod and translate the rod from the forward position to the rearward position when the ridge assembly is pivoted from the second position to the first position; an engagement mechanism, the engagement mechanism being fixed to the agitator support frame and positioned to pivot through the agitator lift rod when the agitator lift rod translates to the rearward position, the pivoting engagement mechanism lifting the agitator support frame and the agitator fixed to the agitator support frame from a lowered position to a raised position, the agitator being further away from the surface to be cleaned in the raised position than in the lowered position.

[0158] Clause 2. The surface cleaner of Clause 1, further comprising: a spring engaged with the agitator lift rod and biasing the agitator lift rod to the forward position.

[0159] Clause 3. The surface cleaner of any one of clauses 1 to 2, wherein the engagement mechanism pivots about a pivot axis and comprises a first arm projecting radially outwardly from the pivot axis and interengaging with the agitator lift rod.

[0160] Clause 4. A surface cleaner according to any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the ridge assembly further comprises a lower shell and an engaging wheel, the engaging wheel being mounted to the lower shell at the pivot axis and being configured to rotate around the pivot axis through the lower shell; the engaging wheel comprises a protrusion, and the rod comprises an arm; and when the ridge assembly pivots from the second position to the first position, the protrusion engages with the arm to translate the rod from the forward position to the rearward position.

[0161] Clause 5. A surface cleaner according to any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the ridge assembly further includes a lower shell, and the surface cleaner further includes: a latch mechanism, which is constructed to selectively maintain the ridge assembly in the first position, the latch mechanism comprising: a claw, which is operably fixed to the lower shell; a pivot arm, which is pivotally fixed to the base shell; a spring, which biases the pivot arm against the claw when the ridge assembly is in the first position; and a release button, which is mounted to the base shell and can press against the pivot arm to cause the pivot arm to move away from the claw and pivot against the spring, so that the pivot arm is released from the claw, thereby allowing the ridge assembly to pivot to the second position.

[0162] Clause 6. A surface cleaner according to any one of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the agitator assembly further includes a sprocket supported for rotation with the agitator about the agitator axis, and the surface cleaner further includes: a drive assembly including a motor drive shaft and a belt, the belt engaging with both the motor drive shaft and the sprocket for rotating the agitator about the agitator axis; a protrusion extending from the base shell in the agitator chamber and having a belt engaging surface; wherein when the agitator assembly is in the lowered position, the belt is spaced apart from the belt engaging surface, and when the agitator assembly is in the raised position, the belt is configured to abut against the belt engaging surface.

[0163] Clause 7. A surface cleaner according to clause 6, wherein the agitator support frame is pivotally connected to the base housing at an agitator support frame pivot axis disposed between the motor drive shaft and the sprocket so that the agitator axis is closer to the rotational axis of the motor drive shaft when the agitator assembly is in the raised position than when the agitator assembly is in the lowered position; and wherein, when the agitator assembly is in the raised position, the belt rotates at the protrusion, and the protrusion limits slack in the belt.

[0164] Clause 8. The surface cleaner of Clause 6, wherein the projection is a rotatable bearing and the belt rotates the bearing by contacting the belt engagement surface.

[0165] Clause 9. The surface cleaner of Clause 6, wherein the projection is fixed and the belt slides against the belt engagement surface.

[0166] Clause 10. A surface cleaner according to any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the rotatable agitator is a first rotatable agitator and the agitator assembly further comprises a second rotatable agitator, which is rotatably supported on the agitator support frame and arranged parallel to the first rotatable agitator.

[0167] Item 11. A surface cleaner comprising: a base, the base being constructed to move over a surface to be cleaned, the base comprising a base shell defining an agitator chamber and an agitator assembly housed in the agitator chamber; a ridge assembly, the ridge assembly being used to guide the base over the surface to be cleaned, the ridge assembly being pivotally connected to the base and being pivotable relative to the base about a pivot axis between a first position and a second position; wherein the first position is relatively upright relative to the base, and the second position is relatively inclined relative to the base; the agitator assembly comprising an agitator support frame, a rotatable agitator rotatably supported on the agitator support frame, and a sprocket supported for rotation with the rotatable agitator about the agitator axis; when the ridge assembly When pivoting from the second position to the first position, the agitator support frame and the rotatable agitator supported on the agitator support frame are lifted from a lowered position to a raised position, and the rotatable agitator is further away from the surface to be cleaned in the raised position than in the lowered position; a drive assembly, the drive assembly including a motor drive shaft and a belt, the belt engaging with both the motor drive shaft and the sprocket for rotating the rotatable agitator around the agitator axis; and a protrusion extending from the base shell in the agitator chamber and having a belt engaging surface; wherein, when the agitator assembly is in the lowered position, the belt is spaced apart from the belt engaging surface, and when the agitator assembly is in the raised position, the belt is configured to abut against the belt engaging surface.

[0168] Clause 12. The surface cleaner of Clause 11, wherein the projection is a rotatable bearing and the belt rotates the bearing by contacting the belt engagement surface.

[0169] Clause 13. The surface cleaner of Clause 11, wherein the projection is fixed and the belt slides against the belt engagement surface.

[0170] Item 14. A surface cleaner comprising: a base configured to move over a surface to be cleaned, the base comprising a base housing; a spine assembly configured to guide the base over the surface to be cleaned, the spine assembly being pivotally connected to the base and pivotable relative to the base about a pivot axis between a first position and a second position; wherein the first position is relatively upright relative to the base, and the second position is relatively inclined relative to the base; wherein the spine assembly comprises a lower housing; a detent mechanism configured to select The locking mechanism is configured to hold the ridge assembly in the first position, the locking mechanism comprising: a claw operatively fixed to the lower shell; a pivot arm pivotally fixed to the base shell; a spring, which biases the pivot arm against the claw when the ridge assembly is in the first position; and a release button mounted to the base shell and capable of pressing against the pivot arm to cause the pivot arm to move away from the claw and against the spring, thereby releasing the pivot arm from the claw, thereby allowing the ridge assembly to pivot to the second position.

[0171] Clause 15. A surface cleaner according to clause 14, wherein the base shell defines an inner cavity and includes a wall having an opening leading to the inner cavity; the pivot arm, the claw and the spring are disposed within the inner cavity; and the release button translates between a rest position and a pressed position along a central axis of the opening.

[0172] Clause 16. A surface cleaner according to clause 15, wherein the release button has a cap portion and an elongated body portion, the cap portion being arranged on the outside of the inner cavity, the elongated body portion extending from the cap portion through the opening and engaging the pivot arm when in the pressed position; the cap portion is wider than the opening and has a peripheral flange, and in the rest position and the pressed position, the peripheral flange surrounds the wall of the base shell at the opening, thereby forming a labyrinth interface between the cap portion and the base shell.

[0173] Clause 17. A surface cleaner according to clause 16, wherein the extended main body portion has a coupling end for pressing the pivot arm and a center opening at the coupling end, the center opening partially extending to the cap portion and surrounding a center column of the extended main body portion, the center column extending from the cap portion toward the coupling end; the base shell includes spaced ribs; when the release button translates, the center column slides between the spaced ribs; and the locking mechanism includes a stop member, which is arranged at the end of the center column and is constructed to interfere with the end of the spaced ribs to prevent the release button from being removed from the base shell.

[0174] Clause 18. The surface cleaner of Clause 17, wherein the central post is threaded and the stop comprises a fastener threaded to the central post and / or a washer captured at an end of the central post by the fastener.

[0175] Clause 19. The surface cleaner of any one of clauses 15 to 18, wherein the opening faces generally upwards.

[0176] Item 20. A surface cleaner comprising: a base, the base including a base shell defining an agitator chamber, and an agitator assembly, the agitator assembly being supported by the base shell in the agitator chamber and including a rotatable agitator; a drive assembly, the drive assembly being operative to rotate the rotatable agitator about an agitator axis, the drive assembly comprising: a motor having a motor shaft defining a motor axis; an intermediate shaft, the intermediate shaft being disposed between the rotatable agitator and the motor shaft and defining an intermediate axis parallel to the agitator axis and the motor axis; a first bearing assembly and a second bearing assembly, the first bearing assembly and the second bearing assembly being mounted to the base shell and rotatably supporting the intermediate shaft; a first belt, the first belt being operatively engaged with the intermediate shaft between the first bearing assembly and the second bearing assembly, and the first belt being operatively engaged with the motor shaft; and a second belt, the second belt being operatively engaged with the intermediate shaft at an end of the intermediate shaft, wherein the first bearing assembly is located between the second belt and the first belt, and the second belt being operatively engaged with the rotatable agitator.

[0177] Clause 21. A surface cleaner according to Clause 20, wherein the first belt is a tension belt and the second belt is a timing belt, and the surface cleaner further comprises: a first pulley, the first pulley being arranged on the intermediate shaft between the first bearing assembly and the second bearing assembly, wherein the first belt is engaged with the first pulley; a second pulley, the second pulley being arranged at the end of the intermediate shaft, wherein the second belt is engaged with the second pulley; and a sprocket, the sprocket being arranged at the end of the rotatable agitator, wherein the second belt is engaged with the sprocket; wherein the first pulley, the sprocket and the second pulley realize a change in the rotational speed of the rotatable agitator relative to the motor shaft.

[0178] Clause 22. A surface cleaner according to any one of clauses 20 to 21, wherein the surface cleaner also includes: a first pulley, which is arranged on the intermediate shaft between the first bearing assembly and the second bearing assembly, wherein the first belt engages with the first pulley; wherein the first bearing assembly includes: a bearing housing, which is fixed to the base housing and surrounds the intermediate shaft, the bearing housing including a through hole, and the intermediate shaft extends through the through hole; an annularly mounted bearing retainer, which is supported by the bearing housing at the through hole in the first wall of the bearing housing and is rotatable relative to the bearing housing, and the annularly mounted bearing retainer has a narrow slot; wherein the bearing housing has a window extending to the through hole; and wherein, during a portion of the rotation of the annularly mounted bearing retainer, the narrow slot in the annularly mounted bearing retainer is connected to the window; and wherein the size of the narrow slot and the window is designed to allow the first belt to be arranged around the first pulley and engage with the first pulley.

[0179] Clause 23. A surface cleaner according to clause 22, wherein the window is a first window and the bearing housing has a second window spaced apart from the first window; and the first belt is engaged with the first pulley by inserting the first belt through the narrow slot and the first window, rotating the annularly mounted bearing retainer to wrap the first belt around the first pulley, and withdrawing the first belt through the second window.

[0180] Clause 24. A surface cleaner according to clause 23, wherein the first wall extends perpendicular to the intermediate axis, and the bearing housing further comprises a second wall extending parallel to the intermediate axis and perpendicular to the first wall; the first window extends through both the first wall and the second wall; and the second window extends parallel to the intermediate axis and perpendicular to both the first wall and the second wall.

[0181] Item 25. A surface cleaner comprising: a base configured to move over a surface to be cleaned, the base comprising a base housing; a fluid distribution system operable to deliver fluid to the surface to be cleaned, the fluid distribution system comprising a centrifugal pump mounted in the base housing, the centrifugal pump comprising: a housing having an inlet through which fluid is drawn, an outlet through which fluid is discharged, a volute scroll member fluidly connected to the inlet, an expansion chamber connected to the outlet, a throat connecting the volute scroll member to the expansion chamber fluid, and an seepage hole connecting the expansion chamber to the volute scroll member fluid; and a pump wheel configured to rotate in the volute scroll member to pump fluid from the inlet to the outlet through the throat and the expansion chamber, wherein the fluid in the expansion chamber is separated from the air in the expansion chamber and returned to the volute scroll member through the seepage hole, thereby starting the centrifugal pump.

[0182] Clause 26. The surface cleaner of Clause 25, wherein a ratio of a cross-sectional area of ​​the throat to a cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet is approximately 1.44.

[0183] Clause 27. The surface cleaner of any one of Clauses 25 to 26, wherein a ratio of the volume of the volute scroll to the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet is about 182.

[0184] Clause 28. A surface cleaner according to any one of clauses 25 to 27, wherein the base shell defines an agitator chamber, and the base also includes an agitator assembly, the agitator assembly is supported by the base shell in the agitator chamber, the agitator assembly includes a rotatable agitator; the surface cleaner also includes a drive assembly, the drive assembly is operable to rotate the rotatable agitator around an agitator axis, the drive assembly includes: a motor, the motor having a motor shaft defining a motor axis; an intermediate shaft, the intermediate shaft is arranged between the rotatable agitator and the motor shaft and defines an intermediate axis parallel to the agitator axis and the motor axis; a first belt, the first belt is operatively engaged with the intermediate shaft and the motor shaft; a second belt, the second belt is operatively engaged with the intermediate shaft and the rotatable agitator; and wherein the pump wheel is driven by the intermediate shaft.

[0185] Clause 29. A surface cleaner comprising: a fluid distribution system operable to deliver a fluid to a surface to be cleaned, the fluid distribution system comprising: a fluid supply; an electric motor; a centrifugal pump configured to be driven by the electric motor and having an inlet and an outlet; wherein the inlet is in fluid communication with the fluid supply; a pump control switch operatively connected to the centrifugal pump, the pump control switch having an on state and an off state; wherein when the pump control switch is in the off state, the centrifugal pump is off, and when the pump control switch is in the on state, the centrifugal pump is on. pump is turned on; and a pressure valve connected to the outlet fluid, the pressure valve having a first flow area at a fluid pressure less than a predetermined fluid pressure, and having a second flow area greater than the first flow area at a fluid pressure greater than or equal to the predetermined fluid pressure; wherein, when the centrifugal pump is turned off, the fluid pressure at the pressure valve is less than the predetermined fluid pressure, and when the centrifugal pump is turned on, the fluid pressure at the pressure valve is greater than or equal to the predetermined fluid pressure; and wherein, when the pump control switch is in the off state, fluid from the fluid supply is discharged through the centrifugal pump to reach the pressure valve.

[0186] Clause 30. A surface cleaner according to Clause 29, wherein the fluid distribution system further comprises: a solenoid valve downstream of the pressure valve, the solenoid valve having an energized state and a de-energized state, wherein in the energized state, fluid flows through the solenoid valve, and in the de-energized state, the solenoid valve prevents the fluid from flowing; and a trigger, wherein the trigger is operable to select the energized state of the solenoid valve.

[0187] Clause 31. The surface cleaner of clause 30, further comprising: a fluid application device located downstream of the solenoid valve and operable to apply fluid to the surface to be cleaned; and wherein, when the solenoid valve is in the energized state, fluid flows to the fluid application device.

[0188] Item 32. A cleaning system for an agitator assembly of a surface cleaner, the cleaning system comprising: a docking tray defining a reservoir and a filling tank, wherein a wall of the docking tray separates the reservoir from the filling tank; wherein the surface cleaner comprises a base, the base being constructed for movement over a surface to be cleaned, the base comprising an agitator assembly, and the docking tray being constructed to support the base, wherein the agitator assembly is disposed at the reservoir; wherein the docking tray defines a channel extending through the wall and connecting the reservoir to the filling tank, and the docking tray being constructed so that a fluid injected into the filling tank flows into the reservoir through the channel.

[0189] Clause 33. The cleaning system of clause 32, wherein a bottom surface of the docking tray in the reservoir is angled downward from a rear of the reservoir to a front of the reservoir such that fluid in the docking tray pools at the front of the reservoir.

[0190] Clause 34. The cleaning system of any one of clauses 32 to 33, wherein the reservoir extends further forward than the fill tank.

[0191] Clause 35. The cleaning system of any one of clauses 32 to 34, wherein the fill tank extends along a side of the reservoir, wherein the channel is located in front of the fill tank.

[0192] Clause 36. A cleaning system according to any one of clauses 32 to 34, in combination with a surface cleaner having a base, the base comprising a base shell defining an agitator chamber, and the agitator assembly supported by the base shell in the agitator chamber and comprising a rotatable agitator.

[0193] Clause 37. A cleaning system in combination with a surface cleaner according to Clause 36, wherein the surface cleaner further comprises a ridge assembly for guiding the base on the surface to be cleaned, the ridge assembly being pivotally connected to the base and pivotable relative to the base about a pivot axis between a first position and a second position; wherein the first position is relatively upright relative to the base, and the second position is relatively inclined relative to the base; and wherein, when the ridge assembly is in the first position, the rotatable agitator is lifted.

[0194] Item 38. A surface cleaner comprising: a base configured to move over a surface to be cleaned; a ridge assembly operatively connected to the base for guiding the base over the surface to be cleaned; wherein the ridge assembly comprises a frame having an aperture; a recovery tank for collecting liquid received from a mixed air and liquid flow generated in the base, the recovery tank having a bottom wall, a plurality of side walls extending upward from the bottom wall, and defining a tank chamber having a top opening; a cover fixable to the recovery tank to extend above the top opening, the cover having a top wall with a top window and side walls with side windows; a handle pivotally connected to the cover and pivotable between a lowered position and a raised position; and a spring biased mounting mechanism, the The spring-biased mounting mechanism is operable to selectively secure the cover to the frame, the spring-biased mounting mechanism comprising a body having a top protrusion extending upwardly through the top window and biased to an extended position, and a side arm extending laterally through the side window; wherein the recovery tank is configured to be assembled to the frame when the handle is in the raised position, wherein the cover is secured to the recovery tank and the top protrusion extends in the aperture of the frame; and wherein the handle interferes with the side arm when pivoted to the lowered position, thereby moving the side arm downwardly in the side window and simultaneously moving the top protrusion downwardly through the top window to withdraw the top protrusion from the aperture and allow the recovery tank to be removed from the frame.

[0195] Clause 39. A surface cleaner according to clause 38, wherein the aperture is a first aperture, the side window is a first side window in a first side wall of the cover, the top window is a first top window, the top protrusion is a first top protrusion, and the side arm is a first side arm; the frame includes a second aperture spaced from the first aperture, the cover includes a second side wall, the second side wall is opposite to the first side wall of the cover and has a second side window; the cover includes a second top window spaced from the first top window; the body of the spring-biased mounting mechanism also includes a second top protrusion and a second side arm, the second top protrusion is spaced from the first top protrusion and extends upward through the second top window and is biased to an extended position, and the second side arm extends through the second side window opposite to the first side arm; and the handle interferes with the second side arm when pivoted to the lowered position, thereby causing the second side arm to move downward in the second side window and simultaneously causing the second top protrusion to move downward through the second top window to withdraw the second top protrusion from the second aperture.

[0196] Clause 40. A surface cleaner according to any one of clauses 38 to 39, wherein the top protrusion is received in the orifice when the liquid / air mixture inlet in the bottom wall of the recovery tank is aligned with the recovery duct outlet in the base and the separated air outlet in the bottom wall of the recovery tank is aligned with the motor duct inlet in the base.

[0197] Item 41. A surface cleaner comprising: a base configured to move over a surface to be cleaned; and an air / liquid separation system comprising: a recovery tank for collecting liquid received from a mixed air and liquid flow generated in the base, the recovery tank having a bottom wall, a plurality of side walls extending upward from the bottom wall, and defining a tank chamber having a top opening; a cover that can be fixed to the recovery tank to extend above the top opening; a plurality of vertical walls disposed in the tank chamber and defining an inlet stack and an outlet stack; and a float disposed in the tank chamber and operatively attached to the cover and vertically translatable relative to the cover; wherein the bottom wall has an inlet opening at the bottom of the inlet stack and an outlet stack at the top of the inlet stack. an outlet opening at the bottom of the outlet stack, the mixed air and liquid flow is introduced through the inlet opening, and the separated air is discharged from the recovery tank through the outlet opening; wherein the cover includes a top wall and a bottom wall, a cover chamber is provided between the top wall and the bottom wall, the bottom wall has a first cover chamber opening and a second cover chamber opening, the first cover chamber opening is selectively fluidly connected to the tank chamber and serves as a tank chamber air outlet, and the second cover chamber opening is at the entrance of the outlet stack; wherein the float is configured to close the first cover chamber opening when the liquid in the tank chamber reaches a predetermined liquid level; and wherein the cover and the attached float are removable from the recovery tank as a unit, and when the cover and the attached float are removed, the plurality of vertical walls defining the inlet stack and the outlet stack remain in the tank chamber.

[0198] Clause 42. The surface cleaner of Clause 41, wherein the first cover chamber opening is disposed in the tank chamber above an outlet of the inlet stack and above an inlet of the outlet stack.

[0199] Clause 43. The surface cleaner of any one of Clauses 41 to 42, wherein the inlet stack is disposed rearwardly of the outlet stack and the first cover chamber opening is disposed forwardly of the outlet stack.

[0200] Clause 44. The surface cleaner of any one of Clauses 41 to 42, wherein the cover comprises a baffle disposed above the outlet of the inlet stack.

[0201] Clause 45. The surface cleaner of Clause 44, wherein the baffle is configured as an inverted channel.

[0202] Clause 46. The surface cleaner of any one of Clauses 41 to 42, wherein the float is disposed forward of the outlet stack, and the outlet stack is disposed forward of the inlet stack.

[0203] Item 47. A surface cleaner comprising: a base, which is constructed to move over a surface to be cleaned, the surface cleaner comprising: a fluid distribution system, which is operable to deliver fluid to the surface to be cleaned, the fluid distribution system comprising: a heater, which is operable to generate steam and has a steam outlet; a distributor, which has a distributor outlet, and the steam is distributed to the surface to be cleaned through the distributor outlet; and a conduit path, and the steam travels from the steam outlet to the distributor through the conduit path; wherein the conduit path has a conduit inlet at the steam outlet of the heater and a conduit outlet at the distributor, and when the base is resting on the surface to be cleaned in a use position, the conduit inlet is arranged farther above the surface to be cleaned than the conduit outlet.

[0204] Clause 48. The surface cleaner of Clause 47, wherein flow along the conduit path in a direction from the conduit inlet to the conduit outlet is free of any upward slope.

[0205] In order to assist and clarify the description of various embodiments, various terms are defined herein. Unless otherwise indicated, the following definitions apply to the entire specification (including claims). In addition, all references cited are incorporated herein in their entirety.

[0206] "One", "an", "the", "at least one" and "one or more" are used interchangeably to indicate that there is at least one of the items. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, there may be multiple such items. Unless otherwise clearly or clearly indicated in view of the context (including the appended claims), all numerical values ​​of parameters (e.g., quantities or conditions) in this specification should be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases, regardless of whether "about" actually appears before the numerical value. "Approximately" means that the numerical value allows some slight imprecision (close to the exact value of the value, approximately or reasonably close to the value to some extent; closely). If the imprecision provided by "about" is not understood in this ordinary meaning in the art and in other ways, "about" as used herein at least represents changes that may be caused by ordinary methods of measuring and using such parameters. In addition, the disclosure of a range should be understood to specifically disclose all values ​​within the range and further divided ranges.

[0207] The terms "comprises," "including," and "having" are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, elements, or parts, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, or parts. Where possible, the order of steps, processes, and operations may be changed, and additional or alternative steps may be employed. As used in this specification, the term "or" includes any one and all combinations of the associated listed items. The term "any" is understood to include any possible combination of the referenced items, including "any one" of the referenced items. The term "any" is understood to include any possible combination of the referenced claims of the appended claims, including "any one" of the referenced claims.

[0208] For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives may be employed throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that terms such as "above," "below," "upwardly," "downwardly," "top," "bottom," etc. may be used descriptively with respect to the drawings without implying a limitation on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0209] Although various embodiments have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary rather than restrictive, and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that more embodiments and implementations within the scope of the embodiments are possible. Unless specifically limited, any feature of any embodiment may be used in combination with any other feature or element in any other embodiment or replace any other feature or element in any other embodiment. Therefore, the embodiments are not limited except in accordance with the attached claims and their equivalents. In addition, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.

[0210] Although various modes for carrying out many aspects of the present teachings have been described in detail, those skilled in the art to which these teachings relate will recognize various alternative aspects for practicing the present teachings within the scope of the appended claims. It is intended that all content contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrations and examples of the entire range of alternative embodiments, and those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the entire range of these alternative embodiments is implied by the included content, structurally and / or functionally equivalent, or otherwise becomes apparent based on the included content, and is not limited to only those embodiments explicitly depicted and / or described.

Claims

1. A surface cleaner comprising: a base configured for movement over a surface to be cleaned, the base comprising a base housing; as well as A fluid distribution system operable to deliver fluid to the surface to be cleaned, the fluid distribution system comprising a centrifugal pump mounted in the base housing, the centrifugal pump comprising: a housing having an inlet through which fluid is drawn, an outlet through which fluid is discharged, a volute scroll in fluid communication with the inlet, an expansion chamber in fluid communication with the outlet, a throat fluidly connecting the volute scroll with the expansion chamber, and a weep hole fluidly connecting the expansion chamber with the volute scroll; as well as A pump wheel is configured to rotate in the volute scroll member to pump fluid from the inlet to the outlet through the throat and the expansion chamber, wherein the fluid in the expansion chamber is separated from the air in the expansion chamber and returned to the volute scroll member through the seepage hole, thereby activating the centrifugal pump.

2. The surface cleaner of claim 1, wherein: A ratio of a cross-sectional area of ​​the throat to a cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet is from about 1.35 to about 1.

55.

3. The surface cleaner of claim 2, wherein: The throat may be square or rectangular in cross-sectional area.

4. The surface cleaner of claim 2, wherein: The cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet is circular.

5. The surface cleaner of claim 2, wherein: The cross-sectional area of ​​the throat is square or rectangular; and The cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet is circular.

6. A surface cleaner according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: A ratio of the volume of the volute scroll to the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet is from about 175 to about 195.

7. The surface cleaner of claim 6, wherein: The volume of the volute scroll is defined in part by the geometry of the inner surface of the housing at the volute scroll.

8. The surface cleaner of claim 7, wherein: The centrifugal pump further includes a pump cover fixed to the housing to close the inner side of the housing; and The volume of the volute scroll is defined in part by the geometry of the inner surface of the pump cover that faces the pump impeller.

9. The surface cleaner of claim 6, wherein: The centrifugal pump further includes a pump cover fixed to the housing to close the inner side of the housing; and The pump cover has a planar inner surface that forms a boundary of the throat.

10. A surface cleaner according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The centrifugal pump further includes a pump cover fixed to the housing to close the inner side of the housing; and The surface cleaner also includes: A pump bracket secures the pump cover to the base housing.

Images