Multi-component floor surface dispensing apparatus

Abstract

A flooring surface dispensing apparatus is configured to mix together a plurality of constituent materials to form a multi-component flooring material and to output the multi-component material onto a ground surface. The dispensing apparatus includes a plurality of shifters that draw individual constituent materials from a material source and pump the constituent materials to a dispenser for launching the resulting multi-component material.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 396,490, filed on August 9, 2022, entitled “MULTI COMPONENT FLOOR SURFACE DISPENSING RIG,” and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 529,011, filed on July 26, 2023, entitled “MULTI COMPONENT FLOOR SURFACE DISPENSING RIG,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Background Art

[0003] The present invention relates to material dispensing systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus for mixing and dispensing flooring materials.

[0004] Flooring materials can be applied to a floor surface to provide a coating on the floor surface to improve durability, aesthetics, grip, etc. For example, the floor material can be an epoxy coating. Flooring materials are typically formed from a plurality of component components that are mixed together to form a multi-component flooring material. The plurality of component components are typically poured separately into a mixing container, such as a bucket. An operator then mixes the components together to produce the multi-component flooring material, such as with a hand mixer, such as an auger connected to a hand-held drill. The multi-component flooring material is poured onto the floor surface to be coated and spread over the surface, such as with a rubber roller. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support member connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support member configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of the first material and the second material source holding a source of the second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw a first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; and a second shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw a second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser. The first shifter and the second shifter can be moved relative to the applicator frame and between a corresponding immersed state and a corresponding retracted state. In the corresponding immersed state, the first shifter extends through the top opening of the first material source into the first material source and the second shifter extends through the top opening of the second material source into the second material source, while in the corresponding retracted state, the first shifter is removed from the first material source and is at least partially disposed above the top opening of the first material source, and the second shifter is removed from the second material source and is at least partially disposed above the top opening of the second material source.

[0006] According to an additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support member connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support member configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source maintaining a source of a first material, and the second material source maintaining a source of a second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame, the first shifter including a first pump configured to draw a first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; a second shifter supported by the applicator frame, the second shifter including a second pump configured to draw a second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; a first supply line extending from the first pump to a distribution manifold, the first supply line configured to receive the first material output by the first shifter; and a second supply line extending from the second pump to the distribution manifold, the second supply line configured to receive the second material output by the second shifter. The first pump, the second pump, the first supply line, the second supply line, and the distribution manifold are connected together as a fluid handling assembly, which is configured to move together as a single unit between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the first pump and the second pump are in respective submerged states, in which the first pump extends through a top opening of the first material source into the first material source and the second pump extends through a top opening of the second material source into the second material source, and in the second state, the first pump and the second pump are in respective stowed states, in which the first pump is removed from the first material source and at least partially disposed above the top opening of the first material source and the second pump is removed from the second material source and at least partially disposed above the top opening of the second material source.

[0007] According to another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support member connected to the applicator frame, at least one support member configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of the first material and the second material source holding a source of the second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame; and a second shifter supported by the applicator frame. The first shifter includes: a first drive assembly; and a first pump connected to the first drive assembly to be driven by the first drive assembly to extract the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to the dispenser. The first pump is removably mounted to the first drive assembly. The second shifter includes: a second drive assembly; and a second pump connected to the second drive assembly to be driven by the second drive assembly to extract the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser. The second pump is removably mounted to the second drive assembly. The first pump is secured to the second pump such that the first pump and the second pump are removable from and mountable to the first drive assembly and the second drive assembly together.

[0008] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support member connected to the applicator frame, at least one support member configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of the first material and the second material source holding a source of the second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame; and a second shifter supported by the applicator frame. The first shifter includes: a first drive assembly; and a first pump connected to the first drive assembly to be driven by the first drive assembly to extract the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to the dispenser. The first shifter is movable relative to the applicator frame between a first submerged state and a first retracted state, in which a first inlet of the first pump is vertically disposed below a top opening of the first material source in the first submerged state, and in which a first inlet of the first pump is vertically disposed above a top opening of the first material source in the first retracted state. The second displacer includes: a second drive assembly; and a second pump connected to the second drive assembly to be driven by the second drive assembly to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser. The second displacer is movable relative to the applicator frame between a second submerged state and a second retracted state, in which the second inlet of the second pump is vertically disposed below the top opening of the second material source, and in the second retracted state, the second inlet of the second pump is vertically disposed above the top opening of the second material source.

[0009] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support member connected to the applicator frame, at least one support member configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of the first material, and the second material source holding a source of the second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame, the first shifter configured to shift the first material from the first material source to the dispenser; and a second shifter supported by the applicator frame, the second shifter configured to shift the second material from the second material source to the dispenser. The first shifter includes: a first drive assembly including a first motor; and a first pump connected to the first drive and configured to be powered by the first drive for pumping. The second shifter includes: a second drive assembly including a second motor; and a second pump connected to the second drive and configured to be powered by the second drive for pumping. The first displacer is movable between a first submerged state in which the first pump extends into the first material source and a first stowed state in which the first pump is removed from the first material source and at least partially disposed over a top opening of the first material source. The second displacer is movable between a second submerged state in which the second pump extends into the second material source and a second stowed state in which the second pump is removed from the second material source and at least partially disposed over a top opening of the second material source.

[0010] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source maintaining a source of the first material, and the second material source maintaining a source of the second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to the dispenser; a second shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; and a power source supported by the applicator frame and configured to provide power to the first shifter and the second shifter to power the pumping of the first shifter and the second shifter.

[0011] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source maintaining a source of the first material, and the second material source maintaining a source of the second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to the dispenser; a second shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; and a power source supported by the applicator frame and configured to provide power to the first shifter and the second shifter to power the pumping of the first shifter and the second shifter, the power source comprising a battery and an inverter, wherein the battery is disposed directly vertically above the inverter.

[0012] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present invention, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; a first support disposed on a first lateral side of a longitudinal centerline of the dispensing device, the first support configured to support a first material source, the first material source holding a source of the first material; a second support disposed on a second lateral side of the longitudinal centerline, the second support configured to support a second material source, the second material source holding a source of the second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to the dispenser; a second shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; and a power source supported by the applicator frame and configured to provide power to the first shifter and the second shifter to power the pumping of the first shifter and the second shifter. The power source is disposed longitudinally behind the first support and the second support.

[0013] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support member connected to the applicator frame, at least one support member configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of the first material, and the second material source holding a source of the second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to the dispenser; a second shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; and a battery supported by the applicator frame and configured to provide power to the first shifter and the second shifter to power the pumping of the first shifter and the second shifter. The battery is disposed laterally between the first shifter and the second shifter.

[0014] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; a first support disposed on a first lateral side of a longitudinal centerline of the dispensing device, the first support configured to support a first material source, the first material source holding a source of the first material; a second support disposed on a second lateral side of the longitudinal centerline, the second support configured to support a second material source, the second material source holding a source of the second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to the dispenser; and a second shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser. The first support is disposed at a first longitudinal forward-most lateral corner of the applicator frame, and the second support is disposed at a second longitudinal forward-most lateral corner of the applicator frame.

[0015] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support member connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support member configured to support a first material source, the first material source maintaining a source of the first material; and a first pump supported by the applicator frame, the first pump configured to shift the first material from the first material source to a dispenser, wherein the first pump is formed as an immersion pump such that at least one valve of the pump is disposed within the first material source.

[0016] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source, the first material source holding a source of the first material; and a first pump, the first pump supported by the applicator frame, the first pump configured to shift the first material from the first material source to a dispenser, wherein the first pump is formed as an immersion pump such that a piston seal of a piston of the first pump is disposed within the first material source.

[0017] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material and the second material source holding a source of a second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract a first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; a second shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract a second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; and a dispensing support protruding outwardly relative to the applicator frame, an applicator arm supporting the dispenser and being repositionable relative to the applicator frame.

[0018] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface includes: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source maintaining a source of the first material, and the second material source maintaining a source of the second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract a first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; a second shifter supported by the applicator frame and configured to extract a second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; and a dispensing support protruding outwardly relative to the applicator frame, the dispensing support supporting the dispenser, wherein the dispensing support is configured to move laterally relative to the applicator frame, vertically relative to the applicator frame, and rotationally on an arm axis of the dispensing support.

[0019] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile floor surface dispensing device for mixing multiple fluid components and then dispensing them includes: a plurality of wheels; a frame mounted on the plurality of wheels; one or more supports for holding a first material source and a second material source; a first pump that receives a first component material from the first material source and outputs the first component material; a second pump that receives a second component material from the second material source and outputs the second component material; one or more motors that operate the first pump and the second pump; and a dispenser that receives the first component material output by the first pump and the second component material output by the second pump, the dispenser being configured to mix the first component material with the second component material and dispense the mixture of the first component material and the second component material onto a floor surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1A is a first isometric view of a flooring material dispensing apparatus.

[0021] Figure 1B is a second isometric view of the flooring material dispensing equipment.

[0022] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the shifter.

[0023] Figure 3A is an isometric view of a flooring material dispensing apparatus with a shift assembly in a stowed position.

[0024] Figure 3B is a side elevation view of a flooring material dispensing apparatus with a shift assembly in a stowed position.

[0025] Figure 4A is an isometric view of a flooring dispensing apparatus showing the pump disassembled.

[0026] Figure 4B is a side elevation view of the flooring dispensing apparatus showing the pump removed.

[0027] Figure 5A is an isometric view of a flooring material dispensing apparatus with the shroud removed.

[0028] Figure 5B is a top plan view of the flooring dispensing apparatus with the shroud removed.

[0029] Figure 5C is a side elevation view of the flooring material dispensing apparatus with the shroud removed.

[0030] Figure 5D is a bottom plan view of the flooring material dispensing apparatus with the shroud removed.

[0031] Figure 5E It is the edge of the floor material distribution equipment Figure 5BA cross-sectional view taken along line EE in FIG.

[0032] Fig. 6A is an isometric view showing a dispensing arm for a flooring material dispensing apparatus in a left side dispensing configuration.

[0033] Figure 6B is a front elevation view of the flooring material dispensing apparatus showing the dispenser in a right side dispensing configuration.

[0034] Figure 6C is a front elevation view of the flooring dispensing apparatus showing the dispenser in a left side dispensing configuration.

[0035] Figure 7 is a front elevation view of the flooring dispensing apparatus showing the dispenser detached from the applicator arm.

[0036] Figure 8 is an isometric view of a flooring material dispensing apparatus showing the dispenser in a displaced state.

[0037] Fig.9A is a block diagram showing a shifter in a submerged state.

[0038] Fig. 9B is a block diagram showing the shifter in a raised, stowed state.

[0039] Fig. 10A is a first isometric view of another flooring material dispensing apparatus.

[0040] Fig. 10B yes Fig. 10A A second isometric view of the flooring material dispensing apparatus is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a flooring material dispensing device (also referred to simply as a dispensing device) is configured to mix component materials together in a desired proportion to produce a multi-component flooring material. The dispensing device is configured to output the multi-component material onto a floor surface, such as a concrete slab. The multi-component material is spread on the floor surface to coat the floor surface. For example, the dispensing device can be configured to dispense an epoxy coating material onto the floor surface.

[0042] The dispensing device includes a frame supported by wheels. The wheels are configured to roll along the ground surface to manipulate the dispensing device to move around the ground surface. Some examples of the dispensing device include a pair of rear wheels. The rear wheels can be fixed so that the rear wheels rotate to roll along the ground surface but do not pivot on a vertical axis. Some examples of the dispensing device include one or more front wheels. The one or more front wheels can be formed as casters, which are configured to roll along the ground surface and pivot to be oriented in different directions. The dispensing device includes a handle by which a user can push or pull the dispensing device to manipulate the dispensing device.

[0043] The dispensing apparatus is configured to support a source of individual component materials, pump the component materials to a mixer where the component materials are combined to form a multi-component material, and output the multi-component material onto a ground surface.

[0044] Some examples of dispensing devices include electric shifters that are powered to pump constituent materials from a material source to a dispenser. For example, the shifter may include a pump and an electric motor that powers the pumping of the pump. The shifter may include a driver that converts a rotational output from the electric motor into a linear input to the pump to power the pumping of the pump. For example, the driver may convert a rotational output from the electric motor into a linear motion for driving a piston of the pump to reciprocate.

[0045] The distribution device includes an onboard electrical energy source to provide power to the electric motor. For example, the distribution device includes one or more batteries configured to provide electrical energy to the electric motor. Some examples include an inverter.

[0046] The dispensing device may be configured to support the material source at various locations on the longitudinal side of the battery opposite the handle used by the user to manipulate the dispensing device. The material source is disposed longitudinally in front of the battery. The dispensing device may be configured so that the material source is disposed on opposite lateral sides of the longitudinal centerline of the dispensing device. The material source may be disposed near the front longitudinal end of the frame.

[0047] The material source support can extend laterally outward relative to the rest of the frame of the dispensing device. The material source support can be configured to hold a reservoir of component materials on the dispensing device. For example, the reservoir can be formed as a bucket, such as a five-gallon bucket, into which the component materials can be poured through the top opening of the reservoir. In some examples, the dispensing device can be configured so that the reservoir is held laterally outward away from the centerline and laterally inward toward the centerline. The dispensing device can be further configured so that the reservoir is held longitudinally in a forward longitudinal direction and in a rearward longitudinal direction.

[0048] Some examples of dispensing devices include a power source disposed transversely between material source supports. For example, a battery may be at least partially disposed transversely between the material source supports. In the case where the material reservoir is mounted on the dispensing device, the battery is disposed transversely between the material reservoirs. The battery may be at least partially disposed transversely between the shifters. The battery may be at least partially disposed transversely between the pumps of the shifters. The battery may be at least partially disposed transversely between the motors of the shifters. The battery may be at least partially positioned vertically above the location of the opening of the material reservoir, and the shifter extends through the opening into the material reservoir.

[0049] At least a portion of the power source may be disposed transversely between the rear wheels of the dispensing device. At least a portion of the power source may be disposed transversely directly between the rear wheels of the dispensing device. The power source may be disposed vertically directly above a pipeline extending between the axes of rotation of the rear wheels. In an example where the rear wheels are connected by an axle, the power source may be disposed vertically directly above the axle.

[0050] In an example where the power source includes an inverter, the inverter may be disposed vertically below the battery. The inverter and the battery may be disposed in a common housing. The inverter generates heat, which warms the battery, thereby improving the efficiency of the battery operation. In some examples, an opening is formed between a control housing in which a controller of the dispensing device is disposed and a power supply housing in which the power source is disposed, so that heat generated by the control assembly is transferred to the power supply housing to warm the battery, thereby improving the efficiency of the battery.

[0051] The shifter of the shift assembly can be configured as an immersion pump extending into the material reservoir. The pump can be configured as a piston pump, wherein the piston reciprocates relative to the pump housing to pump the constituent materials. The pump can extend into the material reservoir so that at least one valve of the piston pump is disposed within the reservoir and below the lip defining the top opening, and the pump extends through the lip into the material reservoir. The pump can extend into the material reservoir so that at least one piston seal is disposed within the reservoir and below the lip defining the top opening. The pump can extend into the material reservoir so that the inlet of the pump is disposed within the material reservoir and below the top opening. The pump inlet can be formed to pass through the pump body so that the pump inlet is rigid.

[0052] According to some aspects, one or more shifters of the dispensing device can be configured to move between a submerged state and a stowed state, in which the pump is at least partially disposed within the material reservoir, and in which the pump is withdrawn from the reservoir. The shifter can be configured so that when the shifter is in the stowed state, the inlet of the pump is directly vertically located above the top opening of the material reservoir. According to some aspects, the shifter is configured to pivot between the submerged state and the stowed state. The shifter can be mounted to the applicator frame at a pivot point. According to some aspects, the shifter is configured to move vertically between the submerged state and the stowed state.

[0053] According to some aspects, the shifters can be mechanically linked for simultaneous shifting between the submerged state and the stowed state. In some aspects, a pump of one shifter can be mechanically linked to a pump of another shifter to secure the shifters together. Some examples can include shifters that are not mechanically linked to allow for separate shifting between the submerged state and the stowed state. With the shifter in the stowed state, the shifter is withdrawn from the material reservoir and the material reservoir can be removed from the dispensing device.

[0054] The stowed state may also be referred to as a no-drip state. With the displacer in the stowed state, the vertically lowest portion of the displacer is disposed vertically above the top opening of the material reservoir, while with the displacer in the submerged state, the displacer extends through the opening into the reservoir. Positioning the lowest vertical portion of the displacer above the opening of the material reservoir allows any constituent material residue remaining on the exterior of the pump to drip back into the material reservoir, thereby preventing material from dripping onto dispensing equipment or a floor surface.

[0055] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the shifter is arranged in an orientation between vertical and horizontal when in a retracted state. The shifter can be oriented so that when the pump housing extends away from the motor of the shifter, the pump housing extends vertically downward. The shifter can be arranged so that when the shifter is in the retracted state, the reciprocating axis of the piston is arranged in an orientation between a vertical orientation and a horizontal orientation. The shifter arranged in such an orientation allows gravity to pull any residual component material along the outside of the pump housing before dripping into the material reservoir. Thus, if the wetted portion of the outside of the pump housing is arranged outside the opening of the material reservoir, the component material will flow along the outside of the pump housing to the vertical lower portion of the pump housing arranged above the opening of the material reservoir before dripping from the pump housing.

[0056] The shifter may be configured to pivot between a submerged state and a stowed state. The shifter may pivot such that the reciprocating axis of the piston moves about the pivot point as the shifter moves between the submerged state and the stowed state. According to some examples, the shifter may be configured to move vertically between the submerged state and the stowed state, such as by operation of a lifter. The shifter may move vertically such that the shifter moves axially relative to the reciprocating axis of the piston between the submerged state and the stowed state. According to some examples, the shifter may be configured such that the motor and the pump move together between the submerged state and the stowed state.

[0057] According to some examples, the fluid displacer is configured so that the pump can be removed from the drive assembly. For example, the pump portion of the displacer can be disconnected from the drive portion of the displacer and removed from the drive portion, the drive portion including components for causing the pump to pump. For example, the drive portion may include an electric motor. The drive portion may remain mounted to the dispensing device when the pump is installed and disassembled. In some examples, multiple fluid handling portions in the fluid handling portion of the displacer are mechanically linked together so that the multiple fluid handling portions can be disassembled together as a single component. Multiple fluid handling portions can be simultaneously mounted to the electric drive and can be simultaneously disassembled from the electric drive.

[0058] The fluid handling portion of the shifter can be mechanically linked together for installation and removal as a single component. The fluid handling portions can be linked together by brackets or other mechanical connectors. Other fluid handling components receive component materials output from the shifter and can form components of the fluid handling portion that can be installed and removed together with the pump of the shifter. Each pump outputs the component material to a hose, which feeds the component material to a distribution manifold. The distribution manifold is configured to receive input flows from multiple pumps. The distribution manifold provides an output to a single mixing line that extends between the distribution manifold and a distributor that outputs the multi-component material onto a ground surface. The component materials can be mixed within the distribution manifold and / or can be mixed within a distribution line that receives the output from the distribution manifold and / or can be mixed within a distributor that outputs the multi-component material from the distribution device.

[0059] The distribution manifold and the flow lines (including a plurality of lines extending from the pump to the distribution manifold and lines extending from the distribution manifold to the distributor) can be mounted together so that all fluid handling components can be installed and removed together as a single unit. Such a configuration allows all fluid handling components of the distribution device to be quickly and easily replaced to allow replacement of the fluid handling components for pumping and mixing different component materials.

[0060] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the dispensing device includes a dispensing support, such as one or more arms, which supports and positions a dispenser. The dispenser is mounted to the dispensing support, and the dispensing support positions the dispenser at a desired position for dispensing multi-component materials relative to the dispensing device. The dispensing support is movable relative to the frame of the dispensing device so that the dispenser can be positioned on either lateral side of the dispensing device. According to some examples, the dispensing support is movable vertically relative to the ground surface to position the dispenser vertically closer to the ground surface as desired by the application, and to position the dispenser vertically farther from the ground surface. According to some examples, the dispensing support is rotatable to pivot the outlet of the dispenser. The dispenser can be pivoted to redirect the nozzle of the dispenser, such as between a vertical orientation and a horizontal orientation, to allow a barrel to be inserted or removed from below the dispenser, such as during cleaning of a fluid line of the dispensing device or dispensing a metered volume into a barrel.

[0061] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the dispenser is supported by the dispensing support but is removable from the receiving bracket of the dispensing support to allow manual positioning of the dispenser. The dispenser can be held by the receiving bracket but not fixed to the receiving bracket so that a user can easily remove the dispenser while the dispenser remains fluidly connected to the distribution manifold to receive output from the distribution manifold. According to some examples, the dispenser can be installed to and removed from the receiving bracket without tools.

[0062] Figure 1A is a front isometric view of the dispensing apparatus 10 . Figure 1B is a rear isometric view of the dispensing apparatus 10 . Figure 1A and 1B Discussed together. The dispensing device 10 includes an applicator frame 12, supports 14a, 14b (collectively referred to as "supports 14" herein), a control module 16, a user interface 18, a controller 20, a housing 22, a dispensing support 24, shifters 28a, 28b (collectively referred to as "shifters 28" herein), supply lines 30a, 30b (collectively referred to as "supply lines 30" herein), a dispensing manifold 32, a mixing line 34, and a dispenser 36. The shifter 28a includes a drive assembly 38a and a pump 40a. The shifter 28b includes a drive assembly 38b and a pump 40b. The drive assemblies 38a, 38b are collectively referred to as "drive assemblies 38" herein. The pumps 40a, 40b are collectively referred to as "pump 40" herein. Material sources 42a, 42b (collectively referred to as "material sources 42" herein) are shown.

[0063] The dispensing device 10 is configured to move along the ground surface and dispense flooring material for application on the surface. The dispensing device 10 may also be referred to as a mobile floor surface dispensing device, which is configured to mix the individual component materials together to form a multi-component material output to the ground surface after mixing. The multi-component material is spread on the floor, such as with a spreader, such as a rubber roller or a roller. The flooring material is formed by two or more component materials, which are stored separately on the dispensing device 10, pumped and mixed on the dispensing device 10, and then dispensed onto the ground surface for spreading and curing. For example, the two component materials may be epoxy resin and / or other curing components, and are in liquid form for pumping. The two component materials are generally referred to as the first component material and the second component material in this article, and it should be understood that a variety of mixed component materials can be used.

[0064] Figure 1A An XYZ coordinate plane is shown. In the description, the direction Y is considered to be longitudinal, the direction X is considered to be transverse, and the direction Z is considered to be vertical.

[0065] The applicator frame 12 supports the other components of the dispensing device 10. The applicator frame 12 extends longitudinally (in direction Y) between a front end 44 (which may be referred to as a first longitudinal end) and a rear end 46 (which may be referred to as a second longitudinal end). The applicator frame 12 extends transversely (in direction X). The applicator frame 12 may be a metal tube structure or the like.

[0066] The wheels 48 are connected to the applicator frame 12 and are configured to roll along the ground surface to facilitate moving the dispensing device 10 within and / or between work sites. In the example shown, the applicator frame 12 is supported by a pair of rear wheels 48a and front wheels 48b, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. The rear wheels 48a can be connected together or individually mounted to the applicator frame 12 by an axle. In the example shown, the rear wheels 48a are connected together by a rear axle. The rear wheels 48a are arranged in a fixed orientation so that the rear wheels 48a can roll forward or backward, but do not pivot around a vertical axis. Thus, in the example shown, the rear wheels 48a are not formed as casters. The front wheels 48b are arranged at the front end 44 of the applicator frame 12. In the example shown, the front wheels 48b are arranged on the longitudinal centerline LL ( Figure 5B ) on. In the example shown, the front wheel 48b is configured to roll along the ground surface and pivot. The front wheel 48b is formed as a caster, which is not arranged in a fixed orientation relative to the applicator frame 12. The front wheel 48b can rotate on a vertical axis for steering the dispensing device 10.

[0067] Each material source 42 is configured to hold a source of a component material for pumping by pump 40. For example, material source 42a may store a source of a first component material, while material source 42b may store a source of a second component material. Material sources 42 may also be referred to as reservoirs.

[0068] The support 14 protrudes from the other parts of the applicator frame 12. In some examples, the support 14 can be formed integrally with the other parts of the applicator frame 12. The support 14 can be permanently fixed relative to the applicator frame 12 (e.g., by welding or integral formation). Each support 14 is configured to support a material source 42. The support 14a protrudes laterally from the central portion of the applicator frame 12. The support 14b protrudes laterally outward from the central portion of the applicator frame 12. The supports 14a, 14b are arranged on opposite lateral sides of the longitudinal centerline LL of the applicator frame 12. The support 14 can be considered to form a part of the applicator frame 12. The support 14a is configured to support the material source 42a. The support 14b is configured to support the material source 42b. The support 14 supports the material source 42 so that the material source 42 is mounted on the support 14 and moves with the dispensing device 10. In some examples, the material source 42 can be considered to be mounted on the applicator frame 12. In the example shown, each support 14a, 14b projects vertically below the vertically highest part of the front wheel 48b.

[0069] In the example shown, the applicator frame 12 is configured so that each material source 42 is overlapped on four sides by portions of the applicator frame 12 to prevent the material source 42 from moving laterally or longitudinally away from the support 14. In the example shown, each support 14 includes a longitudinal flange 50 that inhibits movement of the material source in a first longitudinal direction LT1, and includes a transverse flange 50 that inhibits movement of the material source 42 laterally outward from the applicator frame 12. The central portion of the applicator frame 12 inhibits the material source 42 from moving laterally inward toward the longitudinal centerline LL. The portion of the applicator frame 12 that is longitudinally located behind the material source 42 inhibits movement of the material source 42 in the second longitudinal direction LT2. The applicator frame 12 that overlaps the material source 42 holds the material source 42 on the applicator frame 12 as the dispensing apparatus 10 moves around the job site.

[0070] The material sources 42 are configured to store sources of component materials before mixing to form a multi-component material. The material source 42a is supported on the support 14a. The material source 42b is supported on the support 14b. In the example shown, the material sources 42 are formed as buckets. Each material source 42 includes a top opening 54, through which the component materials can be withdrawn from the material source 42, such as by the pump 40, and additional component materials can be added to the material source 42 through the top opening 54. For example, a user can pour additional component materials into the material source 42 through the top opening 54. As discussed in more detail below, in the case where the pump 40 extends into the material source 42 through the top opening 54, the dispensing device 10 is configured so that the top opening 54 is at least partially covered so that the component materials can be added without having to manipulate other components of the dispensing device 10. In the example shown, the material source 42 is formed as a 5-gallon bucket, but it should be understood that other configurations are also possible.

[0071] The dispensing device 10 includes a controller 20. The controller 20 may include a steering structure, such as a handle, a steering wheel, or other structure as shown. The dispensing device 10 may be pushed by a user's hand holding the controller 20 and / or may be pulled by a user's hand holding the controller. The controller 20 may include more inputs, which may be electronic inputs, such as buttons or switches, for controlling the shifter 28 to pump the component materials to cause the dispenser 36 to dispense. The controller 20 may include a steering control and one or more inputs that operate one or more motors to cause the dispenser to dispense a mixture of the first component material and the second component material.

[0072] The control module 16 is disposed at the longitudinal rear end of the dispensing device 10. The control module 16 includes a module housing 56 configured to house control components of the dispensing device 10, such as electronic control components such as a memory and a processor.

[0073] The housing 22 is supported by the applicator frame 12. The housing 22 is disposed transversely between the rear wheels 48. The housing 22 extends longitudinally and vertically. The housing 22 can be viewed as a shield that forms a power source for the dispensing device 10. The housing 22 at least partially surrounds the power source of the dispensing device 10, as discussed in more detail below. In some examples of the dispensing device 10, the power source includes one or more batteries for providing power to the electrical components of the dispensing device 10. In such examples, the housing 22 can be viewed as forming a battery compartment for the dispensing device 10.

[0074] The displacer 28 is supported by the applicator frame 12. The displacer 28 is configured to draw a constituent material from a material source 42 and drive the constituent material under pressure downstream to the dispenser 36 for dispensing from the dispensing device 10. For each displacer 28, a drive assembly 38 is mounted to the applicator frame 12, and a pump 40 is connected to the drive assembly 38 to power the pumping of the drive assembly 38. As discussed in more detail below, each drive assembly 38 includes a motor configured to produce a rotational output, and includes a driver configured to convert the rotational output into a linear reciprocating input, which is provided to the pump 40 of the displacer 28 to power the pump 40 of the displacer 28.

[0075] In the example shown, the shifters 28 are movably mounted to the applicator frame 12. Each shifter 28 is movable to place the shifter 28 in a respective submerged state in which the shifter 28 is positioned to pump constituent material from a material source, and in a respective stowed state in which the shifter 28 is withdrawn from the material source 42 to facilitate removal and / or replacement of the material source 42.

[0076] In the example shown, the shifters 28a, 28b are connected to the applicator frame 12 by mounting brackets 58a, 58b, respectively (collectively referred to herein as "mounting brackets 58"). The mounting bracket 58a is mounted to the applicator frame 12 and connected to the shifter 28a. The mounting bracket 58b is mounted to the applicator frame 12 and connected to the shifter 28b. The mounting bracket 58 is connected to the drive assembly 38 and the applicator frame 12. The mounting bracket 58 supports the shifter 28 in both the respective submerged state and the respective stowed state. The mounting bracket 58 can facilitate the movement of the shifter 28 relative to the applicator frame 12 when the shifter 28 moves between the respective submerged state and the stowed state.

[0077] Each of the first pump 40a and the second pump 40b is driven by an independent motor 70, and the corresponding speed of the motor 70 can be changed to change the output from the pumps 40a, 40b. The size of the pumps 40a, 40b can be set for a common displacement, but can be controlled for any desired mixing ratio. For example, by controlling the operation of the motor 70, the pumps 40a, 40b can be controlled to output the component materials at a mixing ratio of 1:1, regardless of whether the size of the pumps 40a, 40b is set together. The pumps 40a, 40b can be controlled for a mixing ratio of 1:1 or 1:X, where X is not 1. For example, even when the size of the pump 40 is set together, the motor 70 can be controlled to provide a mixing ratio other than 1:1. The output ratio of the pumps 40a, 40b can be electrically controlled by driving the corresponding motors 70 of the corresponding pumps 40a and 40b.

[0078] In the example shown, the shifter 28 is configured to pivot between the respective submerged and stowed states, as discussed in more detail below. However, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, the shifter 28 can be mounted to the applicator frame 12 so that the shifter 28 is raised between the respective submerged and stowed states. In such an example, the shifter 28 can be moved by a rack and pinion connection, a pulley assembly, one or more pistons (e.g., a pneumatic piston), etc.

[0079] The position lock 60 is configured to dock with the shifter 28 and the applicator frame 12 to fix the shifter 28 in a desired state. In the example shown, the position lock 60 docks with the mounting bracket 58 and the applicator frame 12 to lock the shifter 28 in a certain state. The position lock 60 engages with the applicator frame 12 to maintain the shifter 28 in a corresponding immersed state when the pump 40 is extended into the material source 42, and to maintain the shifter 28 in a corresponding stowed state when the pump 40 is withdrawn from the material source 42. In the example shown, the position lock 60 is formed as a spring biased lock, which is biased by a spring to engage with the applicator frame 12. In the example shown, the position lock 60 is associated with each mounting bracket 58 to fix the position of the mounting bracket 58 on the applicator frame 12. In this way, each shifter 28 can be individually locked in a desired state. In the illustrated example, each drive assembly 38 may individually remain in a position associated with the stowed condition even with the pump 40 detached from the drive assembly 38 .

[0080] The pump 40 is configured as an immersion pump extending into the corresponding material source 42. The pump 40 is configured to extract the constituent material from the material source 42 and drive the material downstream to the dispenser 36. The pump 40 extends through the top opening 54 of the material source 42 into the material source 42. The pump 40 can have any desired configuration suitable for pumping the constituent material. For example, the pump 40 can be a piston pump, etc. In the example shown, the pump 40 can be removably mounted to the drive assembly 38 so that the pump 40 can be removed from the drive assembly 38 and installed to the drive assembly 38, as discussed in more detail below. The pump 40 is formed as an immersion pump because the pump 40 extends into the material source 42 and contacts the constituent material. The pump 40 extends into the associated material source 42 so that the lower end of the pump 40 is immersed in the constituent material in the material source 42. In some examples, when the pump 40 is in an immersed state, at least one dynamic seal of the pump 40 is disposed below the top opening 54 and in the material source 42. In some examples, with the pump 40 submerged, at least one valve of the pump 40 is disposed below the top opening 54 and within the material source 42. In some examples, with the pump 40 submerged, a rigid inlet of the pump 40 is disposed below the top opening 54 and within the material source 42. In some examples, with the pump 40 submerged, at least a portion of a rigid pump housing 88 of the pump 40 is submerged in the constituent material.

[0081] In the example shown, the pumps 40 are fixed together for simultaneous movement between the submerged state and the stowed state. The pumps 40 are further fixed together for simultaneous installation and removal from the drive assembly 38. In the example shown, the pumps 40a and 40b can be considered to form a single pumping assembly, such that the pumps 40a and 40b can be installed together as a single pumping assembly and can be removed together as a single pumping assembly.

[0082] The connecting bracket 62 extends between the shifters 28 and connects the shifters 28. In the example shown, the connecting bracket 62 extends between and connects to each pump 40. In the example shown, the connecting bracket 62 is not directly connected to any drive assembly 38. The connecting bracket 62 can be considered to hold the pumps 40 together. The connecting bracket 62 facilitates the simultaneous movement of the shifters 28 between the respective submerged and stowed states. The connecting bracket 62 extends between and holds the pumps 40 together, and each pump 40 is mounted to one drive assembly 38. The connecting bracket 62 thereby indirectly holds the drive assemblies 38 together for simultaneous movement between the submerged and stowed states. The connecting bracket 62 connected to the pumps 40 further facilitates simultaneous mounting of the pumps 40 to the drive assembly 38 and simultaneous removal of the pumps 40 from the drive assembly 38.

[0083] The supply lines 30 are connected to the outlet of each pump 40. The supply line 30a is connected to the outlet of the pump 40a and is configured to receive the first component material output by the pump 40a. The supply line 30b is connected to the outlet of the pump 40b and is configured to receive the second component material output by the pump 40b. In the example shown, the supply lines 30 are supported by a connection bracket 62. Each supply line 30 extends between the pump 40 and the distribution manifold 32 and fluidly connects the pump 40 with the distribution manifold 32. The supply line 30a is connected to the first inlet of the distribution manifold 32, and the supply line 30b is connected to the second inlet of the distribution manifold 32.

[0084] The distribution manifold 32 is configured to receive discrete streams of component materials and output those streams to a single mixing line 34. In the example shown, the distribution manifold 32 is mounted to a connection bracket 62. The distribution manifold 32 includes a single fluid outlet at which the mixing line 34 connects to the distribution manifold 32. In the example shown, the component materials are not mixed within the distribution manifold 32 itself. Instead, the component materials are maintained fluidly separated within the distribution manifold 32 and directed to a common fluid outlet through which the two component materials are output to the mixing line 34. It should be understood that in some examples, the component materials can be mixed within the distribution manifold 32 to at least partially combine within the distribution manifold 32 before being output to the mixing line 34. The distribution manifold 32 may also be referred to as a mixing manifold.

[0085] In some examples, the distribution manifold 32 may include one or more valves that are pressure-actuated to prevent crossover of component materials that may cause mixing and curing to occur in the supply line 30. For example, the distribution manifold 32 may include a first valve associated with a first flow path through the distribution manifold 32 that directs a first component material from the supply line 30a to the mixing line 34. The first valve may be pressure-actuated such that pressure generated by the pump 40a opens the first valve. The distribution manifold 32 may include a second valve associated with a second flow path through the distribution manifold 32 that directs a second component material from the supply line 30b to the mixing line 34. The second valve may be pressure-actuated such that pressure generated by the pump 40b opens the second valve.

[0086] The mixing line 34 is connected to the fluid outlet of the distribution manifold 32. The mixing line 34 extends between the distribution manifold 32 and the distributor 36 and fluidly connects the distribution manifold 32 and the distributor 36. The mixing line 34 is configured to convey a mixture of the first component material and the second component material to the distributor 36 to be output as a multi-component material. The distributor 36 is configured to output the multi-component material on the ground surface. The multi-component material leaves the dispensing device 10 through the nozzle of the distributor 36.

[0087] The dispenser 36 is supported by the dispensing support 24. The dispenser 36 includes a mixing component configured to promote mixing of the component materials as they flow through the dispenser 36. The dispenser 36 may also be considered to form a static mixer. The dispenser 36 includes a nozzle 64 through which the multi-component material is output for application onto the floor surface.

[0088] The dispensing support 24 is configured to support the dispenser 36 relative to a ground surface. In the example shown, the dispensing support 24 is connected to the connecting bracket 62 to be supported by the connecting bracket 62. The dispensing support 24 can be repositioned relative to the applicator frame 12 to position the dispenser 36 at a desired location for outputting the multi-component material. For example, the dispensing support 24 can be pivoted about the front end 44 of the applicator frame 12 to position the dispenser 36 on either lateral side of the dispensing device 10. Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the example shown, the dispensing support 24 is oriented to position the dispenser 36 on the right lateral side of the dispensing apparatus 10, but the dispensing support 24 can be pivoted to reposition the dispenser 36 on the left lateral side of the dispensing apparatus 10 (best seen in FIG. Fig. 6A and Figure 6C ). The dispenser 36 can be selectively repositioned on the left or right lateral side of the dispensing device. In some examples, the dispensing support 24 can be vertically repositioned so that the nozzle of the dispenser 36 can be positioned closer to or farther away from the ground surface. In some examples, the dispensing support 24 can be moved to reposition the nozzle 64 of the dispenser 36. For example, the dispenser 36 can be rotatably repositioned about the axis of the dispensing support 24 to reposition the nozzle 64 vertically, horizontally, or in an orientation therebetween. In some examples, the dispensing support 24 can be moved so that in addition to the left and right adjustment, the dispenser 36 can also be adjusted forward and backward so that the dispenser 36 can be moved closer to or farther away from the applicator frame 12.

[0089] The receiving member 66 is disposed at one end of the dispensing support 24 and is configured to interface with the dispenser 36 to support the dispenser 36. In the example shown, the receiving member 66 includes a receiving bracket 68 that interfaces with the dispenser 36. The receiving bracket 68 includes a pair of openings through which the dispenser 36 extends when the dispenser 36 is mounted to the dispensing support 24. In the example shown, the dispenser 36 can be installed to and removed from the receiving member 66 without tools. For example, the dispenser 36 can be removed from the receiving member 66 to be positioned and maintained by a user, such as when pumping solvent for cleaning fluid handling components of the dispensing device 10 or for dispensing multi-component materials in difficult-to-reach locations, the dispenser 36 is positioned and maintained above the barrel. In the example shown, the receiving member 66 is provided along the dispensing axis DA ( Figure 6B and Figure 6C) by pulling the dispenser 36 and pulling it out of the receiving bracket 68, the dispenser 36 can be removed from the receiving bracket 68, and the dispenser 36 can be installed to the receiving bracket 68 by aligning the dispenser 36 with the opening of the receiving bracket 68 and moving the dispenser 36 along the dispensing axis DA and passing it through the opening of the receiving bracket 68.

[0090] During operation of the dispensing device 10, the shifter 28 only partially covers the top opening 54 of the material source 42. In some examples, the top opening 54 of the material source 42 is exposed by at least 20% when the associated shifter 28 is in an immersed state. In some examples, the top opening 54 of the material source 42 is exposed by at least 35% when the associated shifter 28 is in an immersed state. In some examples, the top opening 54 of the material source 42 is exposed by at least 50% when the associated shifter 28 is in an immersed state. Such a configuration facilitates pouring additional component materials into the material source 42 without having to remove the pump 40 and without having to remove and replace the material source 42 itself. Such a configuration reduces downtime because the material source 42 can be accessed for quick and easy refilling without having to manipulate other components of the dispensing device 10. The top opening 54 can be considered exposed when it is not vertically overlapped by other components of the dispensing device 10.

[0091] The support 14 is disposed at the longitudinal front end of the dispensing device 10. The support 14 can be considered to be disposed at the front corner of the dispensing device 10. The support 14 positions the material source 42 so that the material source 42 is accessible from the longitudinal front of the material source 42 and the lateral outside of the material source 42 for refilling through the top opening. In the illustrated example, with the shifter 28 in the submerged state, at least a portion of the top opening 54 is uncovered, which portion is disposed on the lateral outer portion of the top opening 54. Leaving the lateral outer portion of the top opening 54 uncovered facilitates pouring the refilled component material into the material source 42 without having to allow the component material to reach above other components (e.g., above the connecting bracket 62), where the component material can drip over these components. Leaving the lateral outer portion of the top opening 54 uncovered facilitates clean and quick refilling of the material source 42. In the examples shown, the laterally outward uncovered portion can form up to about 15% of the area of ​​the top opening 54, up to about 20% of the top opening 54, up to about 25% of the top opening 54, up to about 35% of the top opening 54, up to about 50% of the area of ​​the top opening 54, or a larger area of ​​the top opening 54.

[0092] During operation, the floor surface material is sprayed onto the floor surface using the dispensing device 10, and the material solidifies in place to form the floor surface. The shifter 28 is in a corresponding retracted state ( Figure 3Aand Figure 3B ). Material source 42a is placed on support 14a in an area between the lateral retaining portion and the longitudinal retaining portion of support 14a. Material source 42b is placed on support 14b in an area between the lateral retaining portion and the longitudinal retaining portion of support 14b. The lateral retaining portion and the longitudinal retaining portion of support 14 maintain material source 42 mounted on applicator frame 12 as dispensing apparatus 10 traverses around a job site.

[0093] The shifter 28 moves relative to the applicator frame 12 such that the shifter 28 moves from a respective stowed position to a respective submerged position. The pump 40 extends through the top opening 54 of each material source 42 into the material source 42. With the shifter 28 in the respective submerged position, at least a portion of each pump 40 is in contact with the constituent material held in the material source.

[0094] If previously removed, the mixing line 34 is connected to the fluid outlet of the distribution manifold 32. The distributor 36 can be mounted to the receiver 66, or can be held in the user's hand for aiming during the output of the material. The shifter 28 is mounted to the receiver 66 by moving the shifter 28 through the bracket opening of the receiving bracket 68 so that the shifter 28 extends through each of the pair of bracket openings of the receiving bracket 68.

[0095] The dispensing support 24 is positioned relative to the applicator frame 12 to position the dispenser 36 at a desired location relative to the applicator frame 12. The dispensing support 24 may be moved vertically to position the dispenser 36 vertically closer to or vertically farther from the ground surface, and / or may be pivoted about the front end 44 of the applicator frame 12 to position the dispenser 36 at a desired location about the front end 44 of the applicator frame 12. For example, the dispensing support 24 may be pivoted to position the dispenser 36 on the left lateral side of the applicator frame 12, on the right lateral side of the applicator frame 12, or at a location therebetween.

[0096] With the dispenser 36 positioned and fluidly connected to the dispensing manifold 32, the dispensing device 10 is ready for dispensing. During the dispensing operation, the operator can hold the controller 20 and push the dispensing device 10 longitudinally forward or pull the dispensing device longitudinally backward. The drive assembly 38 is powered by a power source and drives the operation of the pump 40. The pump 40a is powered by the drive assembly 38a and pumps the first component material from the material source 42a through the supply line 30a and reaches the distribution manifold. The pump 40b is powered by the drive assembly 38b and pumps the second component material from the material source 42b through the supply line 30b and reaches the distribution manifold 32. The first component material and the second component material are output from the distribution manifold through a single fluid outlet and flow to and through the mixing line 34. The first component material and the second component material can be mixed in the mixing line 34 and flow to the dispenser 36. The dispenser 36 can be a static mixer that further mixes the first component material and the second component material to form a multi-component flooring material. The multi-component material is outputted through the nozzle 64 of the dispenser 36 and applied to the floor surface. The user can spread the multi-component floor material on the floor surface as desired before curing.

[0097] The dispensing apparatus 10 provides significant advantages. The material source 42 is supported by the applicator frame 12 to move with the dispensing apparatus 10. The pump 40 is configured as an immersion pump that extends into the material source 42, thereby reducing the length of the fluid line that conveys the first component material and the second component material. The pump 40 is formed as an immersion pump, which reduces the length of the fluid line that needs to be cleaned between dispensing operations and facilitates maintaining the desired pressure by reducing the length of the flexible hose included on the dispensing apparatus 10. Such a flexible hose can flex in response to pressure, thereby accumulating pressure. Setting the dispensing apparatus 10 as a cart allows the dispensing apparatus 10 to be dispensed and moved along the floor surface at the same time.

[0098] The wetted components of the dispensing apparatus 10, including the pump 40, the supply line 30, the dispensing manifold 32, the mixing line 34, and the dispenser 36, can be installed and removed as a single unit. Such a configuration allows for simple and easy replacement of the wetted portion of the dispensing apparatus 10, such as for use with different component materials, which eliminates the possibility of cross contamination between these different component materials.

[0099] The support 14 is disposed on the opposite lateral side of the centerline LL of the applicator frame 12. The support 14 forms the longitudinal forward-most portion of the applicator frame 12 on the opposite lateral side of the centerline LL. The support 14 can be regarded as forming the longitudinal forward-most lateral angle of the applicator frame 12. The support 14 is positioned in a longitudinal forward position, thereby placing the material source 42 in a position that is easily accessible to the user. The user is able to place the material source 42 on the support and remove the material source 42 from the support 14 laterally outward from the applicator frame 12 or longitudinally forward from the applicator frame 12. Such positioning reduces user fatigue and provides a simpler system. Further, even when the shifter 28 is in a corresponding submerged state, the positioning of the support 14 allows the user to easily access to add additional material to the material source 42 through the uncovered portion of the top opening 54.

[0100] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the shifter 28. The shifter 28 includes a drive assembly 38 and a pump 40. The drive assembly 38 includes a motor 70, a driver 72, and a drive body 74. The motor 70 includes a stator 76, a rotor 78, and a motor housing 80. The driver 72 includes a rotating body 82, a linear mover 84, and a connector 86. The pump 40 includes a pump housing 88, a piston 90, valves 92a, 92b, a dynamic seal 94a, and a dynamic seal 94b.

[0101] The displacer 28 is configured to draw constituent material from the material source 42 and drive the constituent material downstream to the dispenser 36 for dispensing from the dispensing apparatus 10. The drive assembly 38 is configured to drive the pumping of the pump 40. The drive assembly 38 is configured to be mounted to the applicator frame 12 such that the drive assembly 38 is connected to the applicator frame 12.

[0102] The drive body 74 supports and at least partially surrounds the components of the drive assembly 38. In the example shown, the drive body 74 includes a motor housing 80 that extends around the motor 70 and at least partially surrounds the motor 70. The drive body 74 extends axially beyond the motor 70 in the second axial direction AD2 and is configured to surround the dynamic interface formed between the driver 72 and the piston 90.

[0103] The motor 70 is an electric motor configured to receive an electrical power signal and generate a rotational output. The stator 76 electromagnetically drives the rotation of the rotor 78 on the motor axis MA. In the example shown, the rotor 78 is radially arranged in the stator 76. In this way, the motor 70 can be regarded as forming an inner rotating body. However, it should be understood that the motor 70 can be configured so that the stator 76 is radially arranged in the rotor 78, so that the motor 70 is regarded as forming an outer rotating body. In the example shown, the motor 70 is configured so that the rotor 78 can be driven to rotate in either direction of rotation, that is, clockwise rotation on the motor axis MA or counterclockwise rotation on the motor axis MA. The motor housing 80 is arranged around the stator 76 and the rotor 78 and at least partially surrounds the stator 76 and the rotor 78.

[0104] The driver 72 is operably connected to the motor 70. The driver 72 is connected to the rotor 78 of the motor 70 to receive the rotational output from the rotor 78. The driver 72 is configured to convert the rotational output from the motor 70 into a linear reciprocating motion. The rotating body 82 of the driver 72 is connected to the rotor 78 to receive the rotational output from the motor 70. In the example shown, the rotating body 82 is formed as a drive nut that receives the rotational output. The linear mover 84 docks with the rotating body 82. The linear mover 84 is configured to be linearly displaced along the pump axis PA by the rotation of the rotating body 82. In the example shown, the linear mover 84 is formed as a screw that is linearly driven by the rotation of the drive nut forming the rotating body 82. In some examples, rolling elements such as balls or elongated rollers can be provided between the rotating body 82 and the linear mover 84 and dock with the rotating body 82 and the linear mover 84 to drive the linear displacement of the linear mover 84 based on the rotation of the rotating body 82.

[0105] The connector 86 is connected to the linear mover 84 to move with the linear mover 84. The connector 86 may be formed integrally with the linear mover 84, such as a one-piece piece, or may be formed separately from the linear mover 84 and connected to the linear mover 84. The connector 86 includes a slot 96 that is open in the radial direction and open in the second axial direction AD2 along the pump axis PA. In the example shown, the connector 86 may be considered to form a slotted connector.

[0106] The pump 40 is mountable to and removable from the drive assembly 38. The pump housing 88 defines a fluid chamber 98 through which the constituent material is pumped during pumping. The pump housing 88 may be formed as a cylinder or the like. The pump housing 88 is configured to be mounted to the drive body 74 to secure the pump 40 to the drive assembly 38. In the example shown, the pump housing 88 is mounted to the drive body 74 by a clamp 100 that extends at least partially around the drive body 74 and the pump housing 88. The clamp 100 is configured to secure the pump housing 88 to the drive body 74 so that the pump 40 and the drive assembly 38 are secured together.

[0107] The piston 90 is at least partially disposed in the pump housing 88. The piston 90 extends out of the pump housing 88 in a first axial direction AD1. The piston 90 is configured to reciprocate along the pump axis PA to pump the constituent material. A piston head 102 is disposed at a first axial end of the piston 90. A piston neck 104 extends between the piston head 102 and a piston shaft 106. The piston head 102 is configured to be received in the slot 96 to connect the piston 90 to the driver 72. The piston neck 104 passes through the slot 96 of the connector 86 in a second axial direction AD2 and protrudes from the slot 96. The piston neck 104 extends between the piston head 102 and the piston shaft 106 and connects the piston head 102 and the piston shaft 106.

[0108] The dynamic seal 94a interfaces with the piston shaft 106 and forms a fluid seal between the piston 90 and the pump housing 88. The piston 90 is configured to reciprocate relative to the dynamic seal 94a during operation of the pump 40. The dynamic seal 94b interfaces with the piston 90 and the pump housing 88 to form a fluid seal between the piston 90 and the pump housing 88. In the example shown, the dynamic seal 94b is mounted to the piston 90 to reciprocate with the piston 90. During operation, with the displacer 28 in a submerged state, the dynamic seal 94b is disposed within the material source 42 and below the top opening 54.

[0109] The valve 92a is disposed at an axial end of the pump housing 88. The valve 92a may be considered to form an inlet valve of the pump 40. The valve 92a is configured to regulate the flow of constituent materials into the fluid chamber 98 within the pump housing 88. The valve 92a prevents reverse flow out of the pump inlet 108 of the pump 40. The valve 92a may also be referred to as an inlet valve of the pump 40.

[0110] The valve 92b is provided in the piston 90. The valve 92b is located at the axial end of the piston 90 opposite to the piston head 102. The valve 92b is configured to prevent reverse flow from a downstream chamber of the fluid chamber 98 to an upstream chamber of the fluid chamber 98, the upstream chamber being formed between the valve 92a and the valve 92b.

[0111] The pump inlet 108 is formed at the axial end of the pump housing 88 opposite to the axial end from which the piston 90 extends. The pump inlet 108 is arranged on the pump axis PA, and the piston 90 reciprocates along the pump axis PA. The constituent material enters the pump 40 through the pump inlet 108. The pump inlet 108 is formed as an opening through the rigid structure of the pump housing 88. In the example shown, the pump inlet 108 is not formed as a flexible tube. It should be understood that in some examples, a flexible tube can extend from the pump inlet 108, but in the example shown, the pump inlet 108 itself is formed as a rigid body. In the example shown, the pump inlet 108 can be regarded as forming a rigid inlet of the pump 40. The pump outlet 110 is formed through the pump housing 88. In the example shown, the pump outlet 110 is formed as a radial aperture through the pump housing 88. In the example shown, the pump outlet 110 is axially arranged between the dynamic seals 94a, 94b. The supply line 30 is configured to be connected to the pump 40 at the pump outlet 110 to receive the constituent material output by the pump 40.

[0112] In the example shown, the pump axis PA and the motor axis MA are aligned to form a common axis of the shifter. In this way, the rotational axis of the motor 70 is coaxially arranged with the pump axis PA along which the piston 90 reciprocates. However, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. Further, although the driver 72 is shown as being aligned on a common axis, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, the motor axis MA can be arranged orthogonal to the pump axis PA. In such an example, the driver 72 can be formed as an eccentric wheel or other device suitable for converting the rotational output from the motor 70 into a linear reciprocating motion input to the piston 90.

[0113] The pump 40 may be removably mounted to the drive assembly 38. In the example shown, the pump 40 is mounted to and removed from the drive assembly 38 by radially moving the pump 40 relative to the pump axis PA. The pump 40 interfaces with the drive assembly 38 at a dynamic interface and a static interface. The dynamic interface is formed between the piston 90 and the driver 72 and provides movement to the piston 90 to drive displacement of the piston 90. The static interface is formed between the pump housing 88 and the drive body 74 and structurally connects the pump 40 to the driver 72 so that the pump 40 is supported by the driver 72.

[0114] Examples of installing the pump 40 to the drive assembly 38 and disassembling the pump 40 from the drive assembly 38 will be discussed in more detail. In the case where the pump 40 is initially disassembled from the drive assembly 38, the piston 90 is aligned with the slot 96, and the pump 40 moves radially relative to the pump axis PA. The pump 40 is moved so that the piston head 102 enters the slot 96 of the connector 86. The connector 86 is formed so that a portion of the connector 86 can dock with the bottom side of the piston head 102 oriented in the second axial direction AD2, and a portion of the connector 86 can dock with one or the other of the top side of the piston head 102 oriented in the first axial direction AD1 or the shoulder of the piston shaft 106 extending between the piston shaft 106 and the piston neck 104. The interface between the piston 90 and the connector 86 transmits the driving force from the driver 72 to the piston 90 to cause the reciprocating motion of the piston 90.

[0115] The top side of the pump plate 112 of the pump housing 88 faces the first axial direction AD1, is disposed below and butted against the bottom side of the drive plate 114 of the drive body 74, which faces the second axial direction AD2. The interface between the pump plate 112 and the drive plate 114 can form a static interface between the pump 40 and the drive assembly 38. The clamp 100 is fixed around the pump plate 112 and the drive plate 114 to fix the pump housing 88 to the drive body 74. In some examples, the drive body 74 includes a removable door that can be opened to allow the pump 40 to be installed and removed. With the pump 40 installed to the drive assembly 38, the clamp 100 can fix the door in a closed state.

[0116] To remove the pump 40 from the drive assembly 38, the clamp 100 is removed, thereby removing the pump housing 88 from the drive body 74. The pump 40 can then be moved radially relative to the pump axis PA to remove the piston head 102 from the slot 96. With the piston head 102 removed from the slot 96, the pump 40 is disassembled, and the same or a different pump 40 can be installed to the drive assembly 38.

[0117] The shifter 28 provides significant advantages. The pump 40 can be installed and removed from the drive assembly 38 as a single unit. The pump 40 is installed to the drive assembly 38 at a dynamic interface and a static interface that can be aligned and disconnected simultaneously. The piston head 102 is installed to and removed from the connector 86 by sliding in the slot 96. The dynamic connection can be made and disconnected by simply sliding the piston head 102 relative to the connector 86 and in the slot 96. The pump 40 can be installed and removed by disconnecting the clamp 100 and then moving the pump 40 radially, which facilitates quick and simple assembly and disassembly of the shifter 28, thereby reducing downtime and improving operating efficiency.

[0118] Figure 3Ais an isometric view of the dispensing apparatus 10 showing the shifters 28a, 28b in respective stowed states. Figure 3B is an elevational side view of the dispensing device 10 showing the shifters 28a, 28b in respective stowed states. Figure 4A is an isometric view of the dispensing apparatus 10 , showing the fluid handling assembly 26 of the dispensing apparatus 10 disassembled relative to the rest of the dispensing apparatus 10 . Figure 4B is an isometric view of the dispensing apparatus 10 , showing the fluid handling assembly 26 of the dispensing apparatus 10 disassembled relative to the rest of the dispensing apparatus 10 . FIG. 3A to FIG. 4B Discuss together.

[0119] The shifter 28 is movable relative to the applicator frame 12 so that the shifter 28 is in a corresponding submerged state ( Figure 1A and Figure 1B ) and placing the shifter 28 in a corresponding stowed state ( Figure 3A and Figure 3B ). With the displacer 28 in the corresponding retracted state, the pump 40 is raised away from the material source 42.

[0120] Each shifter 28 is mounted to and supported by the applicator frame 12. In the example shown, the shifter 28a is mounted to the applicator frame 12 by a mounting bracket 58a, and the shifter 28b is mounted to the applicator frame 12 by a mounting bracket 58b. The mounting bracket 58a is mounted to the applicator frame 12 at a pivot 116a. The pivot 116a can be formed as a bearing pivot that supports the mounting bracket 58a for rotation about the pivot 116a. In the example shown, the mounting bracket 58a includes a pair of pivot arms 118, each pivot arm 118 being mounted to the applicator frame 12. The pivot 116a extends through each pivot arm 118 so that each pivot arm 118 is mounted to the applicator frame 12 at a discrete pivot. The mounting bracket 58b is mounted to the applicator frame 12 at a pivot 116b. The pivot 116b can be formed as a bearing pivot that supports the mounting bracket 58b for rotation about the pivot 116b. In the example shown, the mounting bracket 58b includes a pair of pivot arms 118, each of which is mounted to the applicator frame 12. A pivot shaft 116b extends through each pivot arm 118 such that each pivot arm 118 is mounted to the applicator frame 12 at a discrete pivot.

[0121] Each mounting bracket 58 is connected to the drive assembly 38 of the shifter 28. In the example shown, the mounting bracket 58 interfaces with the drive body 74 of the drive assembly 38. The mounting arm 120 extends from a base plate 122 of the mounting bracket 58 to interface with the drive assembly 38. The pivot arm 118 extends from one side of the base plate 122 to interface with the applicator frame 12, and the mounting arm 120 extends from a side of the base plate 122 opposite the pivot arm 118. The mounting arm 120 is disposed laterally between the pivot arms 118.

[0122] In the example shown, the mounting bracket 58 is connected to one or more connecting rods 124 that form part of the drive body 74 of the drive assembly 38. In the example shown, each mounting bracket 58 is connected to a pair of connecting rods 124. The connecting rods 124 extend between and connect the motor housing 80 and the drive plate 114. The drive body 74 can include a guard that is movable to cover and uncover the area within the drive body 74 where the piston 90 interfaces with the connector 86. For example, the guard can pivot between open and closed. The guard can be considered to form a door.

[0123] The position lock 60 is configured to hold the shifter 28 in a position associated with the desired state. In the example shown, the position lock 60 is docked with the applicator frame 12 to lock the shifter 28 in a position associated with the stowed state or in a position associated with the submerged state. In some examples, the position lock 60 can be configured to lock the shifter 28 in one or more positions associated with an intermediate state between the submerged state and the stowed state. For example, the position lock 60 can hold the shifter 28 in an intermediate state in which the pump 40 is withdrawn from the constituent material held in the material source 42, but the pump 40 still extends through the top opening 54 and into the material source 42. In the example shown, the position lock 60 is mounted to the mounting bracket 58 to move with the mounting bracket 58.

[0124] In the example shown, the position lock 60 is configured as a spring biased lock. The position lock 60 includes a lock handle 126 protruding from the mounting bracket 58. The lock handle 126 can be held and pulled by the user to place the position lock 60 in an unlocked state. Releasing the lock handle 126 allows the spring to bias the position lock 60 to engage with the applicator frame 12 so that the position lock 60 returns to the locked state. When the position lock 60 is in the locked state, it can engage with the applicator frame 12. The position lock 60 can include a column that protrudes through the mounting bracket 58 when the position lock 60 is in the locked state to engage with the applicator frame 12. In some examples, the position lock 60 can be actuated to remain in the unlocked state until it is manipulated back to the locked state. For example, the user can pull the lock handle 126 to the unlocked state, and then rotate the lock handle 126 to fix the position lock 60 in the unlocked state. Then, the user can move the shifter 28 to the desired position without having to manually maintain the position lock 60 in the unlocked state. The user may then reposition the lock handle 126, such as by rotating it in the opposite direction, to allow the spring to bias the position lock 60 into engagement with the applicator frame 12 and back into the locked state.

[0125] In the example shown, each shifter 28 is associated with a discrete position lock 60. In this way, the dispensing device 10 shown includes a first position lock 60 associated with the shifter 28a and a second position lock 60 associated with the shifter 28b. Even when the pump 40 is disassembled from the drive assembly 38, the first position lock 60 can also maintain the drive assembly 38a of the shifter 28a in a position associated with the stowed state. Similarly, even when the pump 40 is disassembled from the drive assembly 38, the second position lock 60 can also maintain the drive assembly 38b of the shifter 28b in a position associated with the stowed state. Although the dispensing device 10 is shown to include a plurality of position locks 60, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, even when the pump 40 is disassembled (for example, by bridging between the drive assembly 38a, 38b and connecting to the bracket of the drive assembly 38a, 38b), the drive assembly 38a, 38b can also be fixed together for simultaneous movement between the submerged state and the stowed state. In such an example, a single position lock 60 may maintain both drive assemblies 38 in the desired positions.

[0126] The pump 40 is mounted to the drive assembly 38 to form the shifter 28. As described above with respect to Figure 2 As discussed, the pump 40 is mounted to the drive assembly 38 at a dynamic interface and a static interface. The static interface is secured by a clamp 100 that secures the pump housing 88 to the drive body 74 to secure the pump 40 relative to the drive assembly 38. The dynamic interface is formed between the piston 90 and the driver 72 and provides power to the pump 40. The drive assembly 38 is mounted to the applicator frame 12, and the pump 40 is connected to the applicator frame 12 through the drive assembly 38.

[0127] The connecting bracket 62 extends between the pump 40a and the pump 40b and is connected to the pump 40a and the pump 40b. The connecting bracket 62 fixes the pumps 40a, 40b together. The pumps 40a, 40b are fixed together so that the pumps 40a, 40b move together between the submerged state and the stowed state. The connecting bracket 62 protrudes longitudinally forward from each pump 40. In the example shown, the connecting bracket 62 protrudes longitudinally forward relative to the shifter 28 when the shifter 28 is in the respective first submerged state and the second submerged state. In the example shown, the connecting bracket 26 protrudes vertically above the shifter 28 when the shifter 28 is in the respective first stowed state and the second stowed state. The connecting bracket 62 extends transversely between the pumps 40 so that the connecting bracket 62 spans the longitudinal centerline LL. When the shifter 28 is in the submerged state, at least a portion of the connecting bracket 62 is vertically disposed directly above the top opening 54 of the material source 42. The connection bracket 62 is disposed above the material source 42 and projects longitudinally from the pump 40 before spanning laterally between the pumps 40, which positions the connection bracket 62 for user access. The user can access the connection bracket 62 from either side of the dispensing apparatus 10 and from the front end 44 of the dispensing apparatus 10. As discussed in more detail below, such a configuration allows for efficient and easy actuation of the shifter 28 between the submerged state and the stowed state.

[0128] The connecting bracket 62 includes a bracket body 128 and a bracket handle 130. The bracket body 128 extends between the pumps 40a, 40b and connects the pumps 40a, 40b. The bracket handle 130 extends from the bracket body 128 of the connecting bracket 62. The bracket handle 130 is disposed laterally between the positions where the bracket body 128 and the pump 40 dock. When the shifter 28 is in an immersed state, the bracket handle 130 protrudes vertically upward from the bracket body 128. The bracket body 128 extends longitudinally forward from the pump 40 in the first longitudinal direction LT1. The bracket body 128 protrudes longitudinally toward the front end 44 of the applicator frame 12. In some examples, the bracket body 128 can protrude longitudinally forward so that at least a portion of the bracket body 128 is disposed directly vertically above the front wheel 48b. In such an example, the bracket body 128 can be considered to be vertically coincident with the front wheel.

[0129] The dispensing support 24 is connected to the connecting bracket 62. In the example shown, the dispensing support 24 is mounted to an arm column 132 extending from the connecting bracket 62. The arm column 132 extends from the lower side of the connecting bracket 62. The arm column 132 is disposed on a side of the bracket body 128 opposite the bracket handle 130. The spacer arm 148 can be vertically moved along the arm column 132 to position the dispenser 36 closer to or farther from the ground surface, as discussed in more detail below. In the example shown, the arm column 132 is laterally disposed between the material sources 42. In the example shown, the arm column 132 is laterally disposed between the pumps 40.

[0130] The distribution manifold 32 is supported by the connecting bracket 62. In the example shown, the distribution manifold 32 is mounted to the connecting bracket 62. Specifically, the distribution manifold 32 is mounted to the bottom side of the bracket body 128. The distribution manifold 32 is disposed on a side of the connecting bracket 62 opposite to the bracket handle 130. The distribution manifold 32 is located on the lower side of the connecting bracket 62, which protects the distribution manifold 32 from potential impacts from above. The distribution manifold 32 is disposed at a longitudinal end of the bracket body 128. In the example shown, the distribution manifold 32 is disposed at a longitudinal front end of the bracket body 128. The distribution manifold 32 is disposed at a longitudinal end of the connecting bracket 62 opposite to the position where the connecting bracket 62 is docked with the pump 40.

[0131] The supply line 30a extends from the pump outlet 110 of the pump 40a to the first inlet of the distribution manifold 32. The supply line 30a fluidly connects the pump 40a to the distribution manifold 32 and is configured to transfer the first component material from the pump 40a to the distribution manifold 32. The supply line 30a is disposed on the lower vertical side of the connection bracket 62. The supply line 30a is vertically disposed below the bracket body 128. In some examples, the supply line 30a itself is connected to the connection bracket 62, such as by a hose bracket mounted to the connection bracket 62. With the shifter 28 in an immersed state, the supply line 30a docks with the distribution manifold 32 at a position vertically directly below the bracket body 128. Thus, the interface between the supply line 30a and the distribution manifold 32 is covered by the bracket body 128, so that the joint between the supply line 30a and the distribution manifold 32 is covered and protected by the bracket body 128, thereby preventing accidental impact while manipulating the distribution device 10 or during installation or removal of the fluid treatment assembly 26.

[0132] The supply line 30b extends from the pump outlet 110 of the pump 40b to the second inlet of the distribution manifold 32. The supply line 30b fluidly connects the pump 40b to the distribution manifold 32 and is configured to transfer the second component material from the pump 40b to the distribution manifold 32. The supply line 30b is disposed on the lower vertical side of the connection bracket 62. The supply line 30b is vertically disposed below the bracket body 128. In some examples, the supply line 30b itself is connected to the connection bracket 62, for example, by a hose bracket mounted to the connection bracket 62. With the shifter 28 in an immersed state, the supply line 30b docks with the distribution manifold 32 at a position vertically directly below the bracket body 128. Thus, the interface between the supply line 30b and the distribution manifold 32 is covered by the bracket body 128, so that the joint between the supply line 30b and the distribution manifold 32 is covered and protected by the bracket body 128, thereby preventing accidental impact while manipulating the distribution device 10 or during installation or removal of the fluid treatment assembly 26.

[0133] The mixing line 34 is connected to the distribution manifold 32. The mixing line 34 is connected to the outlet of the distribution manifold 32. The mixing line 34 is fluidly connected to a first fluid flow path that conveys a first component material through the distribution manifold 32, and is fluidly connected to a second fluid flow path that conveys a second component material through the distribution manifold 32. The mixing line 34 receives the outflow from the distribution manifold 32, and conveys the first component material and the second component material to the distributor 36. The distributor 36 is mounted to the end of the mixing line 34 opposite to the distribution manifold 32. The distributor 36 is configured to output a multi-component flooring material formed by combining the first component material and the second component material.

[0134] The fluid handling assembly 26 is formed by the various fluid handling components of the dispensing device 10. In the example shown, the fluid handling assembly 26 includes a pump 40a, a pump 40b, a supply line 30a, a supply line 30b, a distribution manifold 32, a mixing line 34, and a distributor 36. The fluid handling assembly 26 further includes a connecting bracket 62, which connects the fluid handling components together to form a single unit. The fluid handling assembly 26 further includes a distribution support 24, which can support and position the distributor 36. The fluid handling assembly 26 can be installed to the dispensing device 10 as a single unit and removed from the dispensing device 10. The fluid handling assembly 26 is removable relative to the dry components of the dispensing device 10 and the electrical components of the dispensing device 10.

[0135] The shifter 28 is movable relative to the applicator frame 12 to actuate the shifter 28 between the corresponding submerged state and the stowed state. In the example shown, the shifters 28a, 28b are configured to pivot on the pivots 116a, 116b, respectively, to move between the submerged state and the stowed state. Although the shifter 28 is shown to move between the submerged state and the stowed state by pivoting, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, the shifter 28 can be configured to move vertically to withdraw the pump 40 from the material source 42 and move it from the submerged state to the stowed state. In such a configuration, the drive assembly 38 (including the motor 70) and the pump 40 can be directly vertically arranged above the top opening 54 of the material source 42 while being in the stowed state.

[0136] The displacer 28 is placed in a corresponding submerged state to submerge the pump 40 in the constituent material and position the pump 40 to extract the constituent material from the material source 42. In some examples, the pump 40 can be considered to be in a submerged state when the pump inlet 108 is disposed below the top opening 54 such that the pump inlet 108 is located within the material source 42. The pump 40 can be considered to be submerged when the rigid structure defining the pump inlet 108 is disposed below the top opening 54 such that the rigid structure defining the pump inlet 108 is located within the material source 42. Additionally or alternatively, the pump 40 can be considered to be in a submerged state when at least one valve (e.g., valve 92a and / or valve 92b) of the pump 40 is disposed below the top opening 54 such that the valve is disposed within the material source 42. Additionally or alternatively, the pump 40 can be considered to be in a submerged state when a dynamic seal (e.g., dynamic seal 94a and / or dynamic seal 94b) of the pump 40 is disposed below the top opening 54 such that the dynamic seal is disposed within the material source 42.

[0137] The pump 40 is configured as an immersed pump. The pump 40 extends at least partially into the material source 42, which reduces the length of the fluid path between the material source 42 and the dispenser 36. Positioning the pump 40 away from the material source 42 requires a hose to extend from the material source 42 to the pump 40 to form a flow path for drawing the component material into the pump 40. Such a hose may flex as the component material flows through the hose to the pump. The configuration of the pump 40 as an immersed pump inhibits cavitation, particularly when pumping viscous materials. Providing a reduced length of the material flow path from the material source 42 to the dispenser 36 reduces the time and material required to clean such a flow path, thereby saving time and cost. In addition, the pump 40 directly drawing material from the material source 42 provides a more efficient system that provides simpler pressure and flow control by reducing the length of the flexible hose.

[0138] In the example shown, the shifter 28 is pivotable between a submerged state and a stowed state. Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe shifter 28 is shown in the submerged state. Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the example shown, each drive assembly 38 is individually mounted to the applicator frame 12 to be individually supported by the applicator frame 12. The fluid treatment assembly 26 is supported by the drive assembly 38 to move therewith.

[0139] The position lock 60 can be docked with the applicator frame 12 to keep the shifter 28 in the corresponding stowed state. In the example shown, each position lock 60 can be engaged with the applicator frame 12 to keep the shifter 28 in the stowed state. It should be understood that in some examples, the dispensing device 10 can include only a single position lock 60 to fix the shifter 28 in the stowed state. In such an example, a connecting bracket or a separate bracket can extend between two drive assemblies 38a, 38b and dock with two drive assemblies 38a, 38b to directly fix the drive assembly 38 together. In the example shown, the drive assembly 38 is fixed together by pumps 40a, 40b and a connecting bracket 62. A pair of position locks 60 fix a pair of drive assemblies 38a, 38b in positions associated with the immersed state and the stowed state, respectively. Even when the fluid handling assembly 26 is disassembled from the drive assembly 38, the position lock 60 also maintains the drive assembly 38 to pivot backward.

[0140] The shifter 28 can be pivoted by docking with the fluid handling assembly 26. For example, a user can apply a force on the connection bracket 62 (e.g., at the bracket handle 130) and cause the shifter 38 to pivot between the submerged state and the stowed state. The fluid handling assembly 26 is connected to the drive assembly 38 so that a force is applied on the connection bracket 62 to apply a force on the pump 40, and the pump 40 transmits the force to the drive assembly 38 to cause the shifter 28 to pivot. In the example shown, the shifter 28 pivots between the submerged state and the stowed state as a single unit. The fluid handling assembly 26 connects the drive assemblies 38a, 38b together so that the shifter 28 pivots on the pivots 116a, 116b. The fluid handling assembly 26 connecting the drive assemblies 38 together facilitates the simultaneous actuation of the shifter 28 between the corresponding submerged state and the stowed state.

[0141] In the example shown, the pump 40 is angled between vertical and horizontal when the pump 40 is in a respective submerged state. Figure 3B, when in the stowed state, the pump axis PA is angled downward toward the ground surface. The pump 40 is arranged so that the pump inlet 108 is vertically lower than the portion of the pump housing 88 that interfaces with the drive assembly 38. With the displacer 28 in the stowed state, at least a portion of the pump 40 is vertically arranged directly above the top opening 54 of the material source 42. With the displacer 28 in the stowed state, at least a portion of the pump 40 is vertically arranged directly above the support 14. In the example shown, the portion of the pump 40 that is disposed furthest in the second axial direction AD2 along the pump axis PA forms the vertically lowest portion of the pump 40. The arrangement of the pump 40 above the material source 42 allows residues of constituent material that may be disposed on the exterior of the pump housing 88 to drip back into the material source 42. In the example shown, the displacer 28 pivots less than 90 degrees between the submerged state and the stowed state.

[0142] The pump axis PA is angled vertically downward and has a slope between zero and one. The slope is the change in vertical distance obtained on the change in horizontal distance between positions along the pump axis PA. The pump axis PA is set at an angle between vertical and horizontal. In the example shown, the pump axis PA is set so that the angle α between the horizontal and the pump axis PA is greater than 0 degrees and less than 45 degrees. In some examples, the angle α is greater than about 5 degrees and less than about 30 degrees. The angle α is oriented to cause the component material residue to flow to the area defined by the top opening 54 to drip back into the material source 42, rather than to the applicator frame 12, the ground surface or some other location that may cause a mess and require additional cleaning. The component material can flow along the angled pump housing 88 to the portion of the pump housing 88 that is directly vertically located above the top opening 54. In the example shown, when the shifter 28 is in the retracted state, the pump housing 88 does not completely span the top opening 54. In contrast, the pump housing 88 only partially spans the top opening 54 , such that an end portion of the pump housing 88 in the second axial direction AD2 is disposed vertically directly above the top opening 54 .

[0143] When in the stowed state, the pump 40 is disposed vertically directly above the top opening 54, which is the opening of the material source 42, and when in the submerged state, the pump 40 extends through the top opening 54 and the pump is angled downward toward the ground surface, which facilitates cleaning, maintenance and removal of the pump 40. The angled configuration of the pump 40 causes any constituent material residue on the exterior of the pump housing 88 to flow along the pump housing 88 and toward the vertically lowest portion of the pump housing 88. The constituent material can then drip from the portion of the pump 40 disposed above the material source and back into the material source 42. Although the shifter 28 is shown as being disposed between vertical and horizontal when in the stowed state, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, in some examples, the shifter 28 can be disposed horizontally when in the stowed state.

[0144] In some examples, the shifter 28 is configured so that when the shifter 28 is in the stowed state, all wetted exterior portions of the pump 40 are disposed directly vertically above the top opening 54 of the associated material source 42. In such examples, the shifter 28 is configured so that the portion of the pump housing 88 that is actually immersed in the component material is disposed above the top opening 54. Such a configuration can facilitate drip-free removal of the material source 42 when the shifter 28 is in the stowed state. However, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, some wetted exterior portions of the pump housing 88 may not be disposed directly vertically above the top opening 54. The angled configuration of the shifter 28 facilitates the component material on such portions to flow along the pump housing 88 to the portion of the pump 40 that is directly vertically above the top opening 54.

[0145] Connecting bracket 62 spans longitudinal centerline LL and connects displacer 28a and displacer 28b together. With displacer 28 initially in the submerged state, force is applied to connecting bracket 62, such as by a user grasping bracket handle 130, and drive assembly 38 is pivoted to place displacer 28 in the stowed state. Pumps 40a, 40b are moved about pivots 116a, 116b, respectively, such that pump axis PA of each pump 40 is reoriented to an orientation associated with the stowed state (e.g., between vertical and horizontal in the example shown).

[0146] When in the submerged state, the drive assembly 38 (including the motor 70) moves longitudinally rearward and vertically downward relative to the position of the drive assembly 38. In the illustrated example, the pump inlet 108 moves longitudinally forward and vertically upward as the shifter 28 moves between the submerged state and the stowed state. When the shifter 28 is in the submerged state, the pump inlet 108 is the vertically lowest portion of the pump 40, and the pump inlet 108 moves longitudinally but remains in the wetted area. The wetted area is defined by the top opening 54 of the material source 42 and is located directly vertically above the support 14 of the material source 42.

[0147] The pump housing 88 is a portion of the pump 40 having an outer surface exposed to the constituent material. When the pump 40 is removed from the material source 42, the constituent material may adhere to the outside of the pump housing 88. The pump 40 is positioned so that the lower portion of the pump housing 88 is positioned directly vertically above the wetted area defined by the top opening 54 of the material source, which prevents dripping and facilitates drip-free removal of the material source 42. In the example shown, at least 25% of the length of the pump housing 88 along the pump axis PA is directly vertically disposed above the wetted area. In some examples, at least 30% of the length of the pump housing 88 along the pump axis PA is directly vertically disposed above the wetted area. In some examples, at least 40% of the length of the pump housing 88 along the pump axis PA is directly vertically disposed above the wetted area. In some examples, at least 50% of the length of the pump housing 88 along the pump axis PA is directly vertically disposed above the wetted area. It should be appreciated that in some examples, up to 100% of the pump housing 88 is disposed vertically directly above the top opening 54 , such as in examples where the shifter 28 is raised between the submerged and stowed conditions.

[0148] In the example shown, each fluid handling component of the dispensing device 10 moves between the submerged state and the stowed state. However, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. In some examples, the pump 40 can move between the submerged state and the stowed state without the motor 70 also moving. In some examples, the inlet of the pump 40 (such as a suction tube, etc.) can pivot or otherwise move between the submerged state and the stowed state.

[0149] In the illustrated example, the location at which the constituent material enters the fluid handling assembly 26 of the dispensing apparatus 10 (e.g., in the illustrated example, through the pump inlet 108) moves in and out of the material source 42 between the submerged state and the dispensing state. Such movement allows the inlet to be positioned lower within the material source 42 to draw a greater percentage of volume from the material source 42 than if the inlet were positioned vertically higher. Further, fully withdrawing the fluid inlet position from the material source 42 facilitates dripping of residual material into the material source 42 and removal and replacement of the material source 42 without further user interaction with the pump 40.

[0150] With the shifter 28 secured in the stowed state (e.g., by one or more position locks 60), the fluid handling assembly 26 can be removed from the dispensing device 10. Each pump 40 can be removed from the associated drive assembly 38. In the example shown, the clamp 100 is unlocked to release the static interface between the pump 40 and the drive assembly 38. The pump 40 is then pulled radially relative to the pump axis PA. The radial movement of the pump 40 causes the pump plate 112 of the pump housing 88 to slide along the drive plate 114 of the drive body 74. The piston head 102 slides in the slot 96 and then slides out of the slot 96 to disconnect the dynamic connection between the piston 90 and the driver 72. In the example shown, the pumps 40a, 40b are secured together by the connecting bracket 62 so that pulling the connecting bracket 62 can simultaneously remove the pump 40a from the drive assembly 38a and the pump 40b from the drive assembly 38b.

[0151] The fluid handling assembly 26 is Figure 4A and Figure 4B 38. The fluid handling assembly 26 is shown in a disassembled state. Disassembling the fluid handling assembly 26 disassembles each fluid handling component of the dispensing device 10 as a single unit. The pump 40, the supply line 30, the distribution manifold 32, the mixing line 34, and the distributor 36 can all be removed together as a single unit. The connecting bracket 62 fixes the various fluid handling components together and supports them. The fluid handling assembly 26 can be removed as a single unit, which facilitates the quick and efficient removal and replacement of the fluid handling components. In some examples, the user may want to switch between dispensing a first multi-component material made of a first combination of component materials and dispensing a second multi-component material made of a different combination of component materials. The user can switch the fluid handling assembly 26 to prevent the possibility of cross-contamination. For example, the user can disassemble the first fluid handling assembly 26 and install a different second fluid handling assembly 26 to drive the assembly 38. In some examples, the fluid handling assembly 26 can be dedicated to pumping a certain combination of component materials, and the user can simply and easily replace it with the desired fluid handling assembly 26 associated with the specific combination of component materials being used.

[0152] The same or different fluid handling assemblies 26 may be mounted to the drive assemblies 38a, 38b. The drive assembly 38 is a dry component that does not directly handle the constituent materials during operation. With the fluid handling assembly 26 removed, the power and drive components of the dispensing apparatus 10 remain mounted on the dispensing apparatus 10.

[0153] Removing and replacing the fluid handling assembly 26 as a single unit reduces downtime and facilitates simple maintenance of the dispensing device 10. The user does not need to manipulate multiple or separate hose fittings during assembly and disassembly. Instead, the user can pull the fluid handling assembly 26 out of the drive assembly 38 for disassembly, or can install the fluid handling assembly 26 to the drive assembly 38 for installation. During installation, the piston head 102 is aligned with the slot 96, and the fluid handling assembly 26 moves radially relative to the pump axis PA of the pump 40. The pump plate 112 is disposed below the drive plate 114 and docked with the drive plate 114, and the piston head 102 enters the slot 96. The clamp 100 is engaged to lock the pump housing 88 and the drive body 74 together to form a static interface. With the clamp 100 fixed, the shifter 28 can be moved to an immersed state to position the pump 40 for pumping.

[0154] In the example shown, a pair of static interfaces and a pair of dynamic interfaces connect the fluid handling assembly 26 to the drive assembly 38. Each pump 40 is connected by a single static interface and a single dynamic interface. The fluid handling components are fluidly connected to each other. The outflow from the pump 40a and the pump 40b is directed to be combined through the distribution manifold 32. The fluid handling components are structurally fixed together by the connecting bracket 62. The connecting bracket 62 extends between the pumps 40 and structurally connects the pumps 40. The distribution manifold 32 is mounted to the connecting bracket 62. The distribution support 24 extends from the connecting bracket 62. The distributor 36 is mounted to the distribution support 24. The connecting bracket 62 connects the fluid handling components together so that the fluid handling components can be moved as a single unit.

[0155] In the example shown, the fluid handling assembly 26 includes a complete fluid path between the material source 42 and the nozzle 64 of the dispenser 36. The complete fluid path extends from the pump inlet 108 of the pump 40a to the dispenser 36, and from the pump inlet 108 of the pump 40b to the dispenser 36. The pump inlet 108 receives the component materials into the fluid path, and the nozzle 64 of the dispenser 36 outputs the multi-component material from the fluid path. The fluid path of the first component material is all mountable on the dispensing device 10 as a single unit and removable from the dispensing device 10. The fluid path of the second component material is all mountable on the dispensing device 10 as a single unit and removable from the dispensing device 10. Making the various fluid paths all mountable to and removable from the drive components of the dispensing device 10 facilitates quick and easy assembly and disassembly of the dispensing device 10.

[0156] During installation or removal of the fluid handling assembly 26, there is no need to manipulate the couplings that connect the fluid lines (e.g., the mixing line 34 and the supply line 30) to other components (e.g., the pump 40, the distribution manifold 32, and the distributor 36) to connect or disconnect. The fluid couplings remain connected during installation and removal of the fluid handling assembly 26, eliminating the mess and dripping that occurs when disconnecting fluid fittings. Further, the fluid couplings do not need to be manipulated to connect or disconnect. Instead, during installation and removal, only the mechanical interface between the fluid handling assembly 26 and the other components of the dispensing device 10 is formed and disconnected.

[0157] The radial movement of the pump 40 relative to the pump axis PA facilitates the installation and removal of the pump 40. Such a configuration allows the pump 40 to be installed and removed simultaneously because the dynamic interface is formed by sliding the piston head 102 into the slot 96, and the static interface is aligned by relative radial movement between the pump housing 88 and the drive body 74. The pump 40 does not need to be twisted about the pump axis PA of the pump during installation, which would inhibit the simultaneous installation of the pumps 40a and 40b. Instead, radial movement facilitates alignment to engage both the static connector and the drive connector. The static interface mechanically supports the fluid handling assembly 26. The drive dynamic interface mechanically provides power for the pumping of the pump 40.

[0158] The fluid handling assembly 26 can be mounted to and removed from the dispensing device 10, which provides significant advantages. All fluid handling components can be removed by a single action of moving the fluid handling assembly 26 away from the drive assembly 38. During installation and removal, the fluid handling assembly 26 moves longitudinally and / or vertically relative to the applicator frame 12. The user can quickly and easily remove the fluid handling assembly 26 and replace it with another fluid handling assembly 26. Through a single action, even if the fluid handling assembly 26 slides relative to the drive assembly 38 to remove the pump 40 from the drive assembly 38, the user can remove all fluid lines of the dispensing device 10. Similarly, through a single action, even if the fluid handling assembly 26 slides relative to the drive assembly 38 to install the pump 40 to the drive assembly 38, the user can install all fluid lines of the dispensing device 10. Such installation and removal eliminates the need to establish and disconnect messy fluid connections between hoses because all hoses can remain fixed during installation and removal.

[0159] Figure 5A is an isometric view of dispensing apparatus 10 with housing 22 removed to expose power source 134 . Figure 5B is a top elevation view of the dispensing apparatus 10 with the housing 22 removed. Figure 5C is a side elevation view of the dispensing apparatus 10 with the housing 22 removed. Figure 5Dis a bottom elevation view of the dispensing apparatus 10 with the housing 22 removed. Figure 5E is the edge of the distribution device 10 Figure 5B A cross-sectional view taken along line EE in FIG. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5E Discuss together.

[0160] The dispensing device 10 is configured to move around a job site and produce and output a multi-component flooring material. The multi-component material is produced by the dispensing device 10 onboard the dispensing device 10 by combining discrete component materials onboard the dispensing device 10 to form the multi-component material. The resulting multi-component material is output onto a ground surface and cured in place to form a flooring surface. The dispensing device 10 is configured to provide mobility around a job site while balancing components and providing access to various components to a user.

[0161] The applicator frame 12 supports the other components of the dispensing device 10. The wheels 48 are mounted to the applicator frame 12 and are configured to roll along the ground surface to maneuver the dispensing device 10 around the job site and / or between the job sites. The rear wheels 48a are mounted to a common axle 136 that extends longitudinally between the outer longitudinal sides of the applicator frame 12. The rear axle 136 extends between and connects the rear wheels 48a. However, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, each rear wheel 48a can be directly mounted to the applicator frame 12 by its own bearing support. In such an example, the rear wheels 48a can rotate independently of each other.

[0162] The front wheel 48b is disposed at the front longitudinal end of the applicator frame 12. The front wheel 48b is formed as a caster that is configured to roll on a rotation axis (the rotation axis is generally parallel to the ground axis or oriented horizontally) and pivot on a pivot axis (e.g., a vertical pivot axis). The front wheel 48b determines the orientation of the dispensing device 10 when the dispensing device 10 is manipulated. In the example shown, the front wheel 48b is arranged to be aligned with the longitudinal centerline LL of the dispensing device 10.

[0163] The controller 20 is disposed at the longitudinal rear end of the applicator frame 12. The controller 20 provides a location for the user to interact with the dispensing device 10 to turn and manipulate the dispensing device 10. The controller 20 includes a user interface 18, through which the user can cause the dispensing device 10 to pump and output the component materials. The dispensing device 10 can be configured to move longitudinally forward and / or longitudinally backward while outputting the multi-component material. In the example shown, the controller 20 includes a handle, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited.

[0164] The control module 16 is disposed at the rear longitudinal end of the dispensing device 10. The control module 16 includes a module housing 56 in which various control components (e.g., computer memory, computer processing circuitry, printed circuit boards, etc.) may be stored. In some examples, an exhaust port is formed through a portion of the module housing 56 that is oriented toward the power source 134. The exhaust port is configured such that the interior of the module housing 56 and the interior of the housing 22 are fluidly connected. Heat generated by the control elements within the module housing 56 may flow through the exhaust port and into the housing 22. Such heat may warm the power source 134 (e.g., warm the battery 138), thereby increasing the operating efficiency of the battery 138.

[0165] The power supply 134 is supported by the applicator frame 12. In the example shown, the power supply 134 includes a battery 138 and an inverter 140. The power supply 134 is mounted on the applicator frame 12 and is configured to be arranged in the housing 22. The battery 138 can be configured as a removable and rechargeable battery, etc. The battery 138 stores a source of electrical energy for powering the operation of the motor 70 of the shifter 28. The inverter 140 is configured to receive a direct current (DC) power signal from the battery 138 and output an alternating current (AC) power signal. Although the dispensing device 10 is described as including a power supply 134 with an inverter 140, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, the dispensing device 10 can be configured with one or more batteries 138, but without an inverter 140. In such an example, the battery 138 can provide a DC power signal directly to the control components of the control module 16 and / or the motor 70 of the shifter 28.

[0166] The power source 134 straddles the longitudinal centerline LL of the applicator frame 12. A YZ plane extending along the longitudinal centerline LL would extend through the power source 134. In the example shown, such a plane extends through each of the battery 138 and the inverter 140. Positioning the power source 134 above the longitudinal centerline LL provides a weight balance to the dispensing apparatus 10, thereby providing easy handling to the user.

[0167] The power source 134 is disposed in a longitudinal rearward portion 144 of the dispensing device 10. In the example shown, the forward portion 142 of the dispensing device 10 is disposed longitudinally forward of the pivots 116a, 116b, while the rearward portion 144 of the dispensing device 10 is disposed longitudinally rearward of the pivots 116a, 116b.

[0168] The power supply 134 is disposed longitudinally behind the pumps 40. The power supply 134 is disposed longitudinally behind the pump inlet 108 of each pump 40 when the pumps 40 are in both the position associated with the submerged state and the position associated with the stowed state. The power supply 134 is disposed laterally between the pumps 40. The power supply 134 is disposed laterally between the pumps 40, but is longitudinally spaced from the pumps 40 such that the power supply 134 is not disposed directly laterally between the pumps 40. The power supply 134 is disposed laterally between the pumps 40, which provides balance for the dispensing apparatus 10 during operation and when the shifter 28 is moved between the respective submerged and stowed states.

[0169] The power source 134 is longitudinally located behind the pump 40 when the pump 40 is in both the submerged and stowed positions, which protects the electrical components of the dispensing device 10 from liquid contamination. The pump 40 is not positioned to drip onto the housing 22 when in the submerged or stowed positions. Instead, the pump 40 is positioned so that the wetted portion of the pump 40 remains mounted above the wetted area 156 of each support 14. The power source 134 is located behind the pump inlet 108, which protects the power source 134 while also balancing the weight of the dispensing device 10.

[0170] The power supply 134 is disposed transversely between the shifter 28a and the shifter 28b. In the example shown, the power supply 134 is disposed transversely between the pumps 40a, 40b when the shifter 28 is both submerged and retracted. In the example shown, the power supply 134 is disposed transversely between the drive assemblies 38a, 38b when the shifter 28 is both submerged and retracted. In the example shown, the power supply 134 is disposed transversely between the material sources 42 when the shifter 28 is both submerged and retracted. In the example shown, the power supply 134 is disposed vertically above the support 14.

[0171] The power source 134 is disposed longitudinally behind the shifters 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the overlap between the power source 134 and the shifter 28 increases as the shifter 28 moves from the submerged state to the stowed state. The drive assembly 38 moves longitudinally rearward as the shifter 28 moves to the stowed state. With the shifter 28 in the stowed state, the motor 70 is positioned such that at least a portion of the power source 134 is disposed laterally directly between the motor 70 of the shifter 28a and the motor 70 of the shifter 28b. In the example shown, the battery 138 is disposed laterally directly between the drive assemblies 38 with the shifter 28 in the stowed state. In the example shown, the battery 138 is disposed laterally directly between the motor 70 with the shifter 28 in the stowed state. Thus, at least a portion of the power source 134 overlaps laterally with the motor 70 with the shifter 28 in the respective stowed state. In the example shown, when the shifter 28 is in the stowed state, at least a portion of the battery 138 is disposed laterally directly between the motors 70. In the example shown, with the shifter 28 in the submerged state, the power source 134 is disposed vertically between the vertically highest portion of the shifter 28 and the vertically lowest portion of the shifter 28. In the example shown, with the shifter 28 in the stowed state, the power source 134 (specifically the battery 138) is at least partially disposed vertically above the vertically highest portion of the shifter 28.

[0172] Pivoting the shifter 28 to the stowed state facilitates easy maneuvering of the dispensing apparatus 10 with the shifter 28 stowed. The drive assembly 38 (including heavy electronic and motor components) moves vertically downward, thereby lowering the center of gravity of the dispensing apparatus 10. In addition, the drive assembly 38 is disposed on opposite lateral sides of the longitudinal centerline LL so that the center of gravity does not move laterally as the shifter 28 moves relative to the applicator frame 12.

[0173] Power supply 134 is arranged at the longitudinal position common with rear wheel 48a. In the example shown, power supply 134 is arranged directly vertically above rear axle 136 across rear wheel 48a. Power supply 134 is arranged directly vertically above pipeline extending between the rotation axis of rear wheel 48a and the rotation axis of rear wheel 48b. In the example shown, such pipeline extends along rear axle 136, but it should be understood that even if rear wheel 48a is directly mounted to applicator frame 12 separately without connecting rear axle 136, power supply 134 can also be directly positioned vertically above such position. Positioning power supply 134 above the position between rear wheel 48a provides balance to dispensing device 10 and allows easier control. User can tilt dispensing device 10 on rear wheel 48, so as to move over curb or other obstacles, and make power supply 134 be positioned above rear axle 136 to balance dispensing device 10.

[0174] The power source 134 is disposed transversely between the rear wheels 48a. In the example shown, at least a portion of the power source 134 is disposed transversely directly between the rear wheels 48a. In the example shown, the inverter 140 extends below the vertical highest point of each rear wheel 48a, so that the inverter 140 is disposed transversely directly between the rear wheels 48a. The battery 138 is disposed transversely between the rear wheels 48a and vertically above the rear wheels 48a. However, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, in some examples, the battery 138 can be disposed transversely directly between the rear wheels 48a.

[0175] The battery 138 is mounted vertically above the inverter 140. In the example shown, the battery 138 is disposed vertically directly above the inverter 140. The inverter 140 generates heat during operation. The battery 138 operates more efficiently in a warm environment than in a colder environment. The battery 138 is disposed vertically directly above the inverter 140 and within the common housing 22, positioning the battery 138 so that the heat generated by the inverter 140 rises to the battery 138 and around the battery 138, thereby increasing the temperature around the battery 138 and providing a more efficient operating environment for the battery 138. The battery 138 and the inverter 140 are disposed in a common power supply room at least partially defined by the housing 22. The battery 138 and the inverter 140 are disposed in a common housing 22 to facilitate heat transfer from the inverter 140 to the battery 138.

[0176] The support member 14 is arranged on the relative lateral sides of the longitudinal center line LL. The support member 14a forms the longitudinal frontmost part of the applicator frame 12 on the first lateral side of the longitudinal center line LL. The support member 14b forms the longitudinal frontmost part of the applicator frame 12 on the second lateral side of the longitudinal center line LL. The support members 14a, 14b are arranged on the relative lateral sides of the longitudinal center line LL. The power supply 134 is arranged laterally between the outer lateral side of the support member 14a and the outer lateral side of the support member 14b. At least a portion of the front wheel 48b can be directly arranged laterally between the support member 14a and the support member 14b. The front wheel 48b and the power supply 134 can be aligned on the longitudinal center line LL.

[0177] The support 14a extends laterally outward from the central portion of the applicator frame 12. The support 14a is configured to support the material source 42a. The applicator frame 12 is configured so that the material source 42a is retained on the support 14a longitudinally forward, longitudinally rearward, transversely leftward, and transversely rightward. To remove the material source 42a, the material source 42a is first moved vertically so that the lower end of the material source 42 can pass over the longitudinal flange 50 or the transverse flange 50, and then the material source 42 is moved laterally outward or longitudinally forward to be removed from the support 14a.

[0178] The support 14a is disposed in the front right quarter region of the dispensing device 10. The support 14a can be considered to be disposed at the front corner of the dispensing device 10. The support 14a is disposed in the forward portion 142 and is disposed laterally outside the longitudinal centerline LL. The support 14a is positioned at the front corner, thereby facilitating easy installation and removal of the material source 42a. The support 14a positions the material source 42 so that the material source 42a extends further laterally outward away from the longitudinal centerline LL than the rear wheel 48a. The transverse flange 50 forms the transverse outermost portion of the applicator frame 12. The material source 42a is disposed laterally outward, which positions the material source 42a to be easily accessible to the user, such as for refilling, installation or removal.

[0179] The support 14b extends laterally outward from the central portion of the applicator frame 12. The support 14b is configured to support the material source 42b. The applicator frame 12 is configured so that the material source 42b is retained on the support 14b longitudinally forward, longitudinally rearward, transversely leftward, and transversely rightward. To remove the material source 42b, the material source 42b is first moved vertically so that the lower end of the material source 42b can pass over the longitudinal flange 50 or the transverse flange 50, and then the material source 42 is moved laterally outward or longitudinally forward to be removed from the support 14b.

[0180] The support 14b is disposed in the front left quarter region of the dispensing device 10. The support 14b can be considered to be disposed at the front corner of the dispensing device 10. The support 14b is disposed in the forward portion 142 and is disposed laterally outside the longitudinal centerline LL. The support 14b is positioned at the front corner, thereby facilitating easy installation and removal of the material source 42b. The support 14b positions the material source 42b so that the material source 42b extends further laterally outwardly away from the longitudinal centerline LL than the rear wheel 48a. The transverse flange 50 forms the transverse outermost portion of the applicator frame 12. The material source 42b is disposed laterally outward, which positions the material source 42b to be easily accessible to the user, such as for refilling, installation or removal.

[0181] Material sources 42a, 42b are supported on supports 14a, 14b, respectively. Material sources 42a, 42b are disposed on opposite lateral sides of a longitudinal centerline LL. Placing material sources 42a, 42b on opposite lateral sides of centerline LL facilitates balancing dispensing apparatus 10 and spacing material sources 42a, 42b to prevent accidental crossover of constituent materials. In the example shown, neither material source 42a, 42b extends above or across centerline LL.

[0182] The material source 42 is disposed longitudinally in front of the power source 134. The positioning of the material source 42 relative to the power source 134 provides balance for the dispensing apparatus 10, whether the dispensing apparatus 10 is pushed or pulled during operation. The power source 134 is disposed above the rear axle 136, and the material source 42 is disposed on the longitudinal side of the rear axle 136 opposite the controller 20. The user interacts with the controller 20 on the longitudinal side of the power source 134 opposite the material source 42, which provides balance between the user and the material source 42, thereby facilitating manipulation and operation.

[0183] In the example shown, the fluid path for the first component material remains on one lateral side of the centerline LL, while the fluid path for the second component material remains on an opposite second lateral side of the centerline LL until the paths merge at the output of the distribution manifold 32. The distribution manifold 32 may span the longitudinal centerline LL. The mixing line 34, containing the flow of both the first component material and the second component material, may be pivoted to either lateral side of the centerline LL, but in the example shown, the supply lines 30 conveying only one component material are fixed on opposite sides of the centerline LL.

[0184] The fluid flow path is disposed longitudinally in front of the power source 134. The pump 40, the supply line 30, the distribution manifold 32, the mixing line 34, and the distributor 36 are all disposed longitudinally in front of the power source 134. In the example shown, the constituent materials enter the fluid path at a position longitudinally in front of the power source 134 (e.g., through the pump inlet 108) and exit the fluid path at a position longitudinally in front of the power source 134 (e.g., through the nozzle 64 of the distributor 36). The fluid passage does not overlap or intersect the power source 134 laterally or vertically. The power source 134 is isolated from and positioned away from the fluid passage to prevent undesirable liquid from penetrating into the housing 22.

[0185] The power source 134 is supported vertically above the ground surface. In the example shown, the battery 138 is supported by the longitudinal beams of the applicator frame 12. The battery 138 is arranged so that at least a portion of the battery 138 is vertically located above the material source 42. At least a portion of the battery 138 is vertically located above the vertical height of the top opening 54 of the material source 42. The battery 138 is vertically arranged above the top opening 54, which further positions the battery 138 away from potential contamination (such as due to dripping or leaking).

[0186] With the displacer 28 in the respective submerged state, the battery 138 is disposed vertically above the pump inlet 108 of the pump 40. In the illustrated example, with the displacer in the respective stowed state, the battery 138 is disposed at least partially vertically above the pump inlet 108. With the pump 40 both submerged in and withdrawn from the material source 42, the battery 138 is disposed at least partially vertically above the location where the constituent material enters the pump 40. With the displacer 28 in both the respective submerged and stowed states, the battery 138 is longitudinally rearward of the pump inlet 108.

[0187] As discussed above, the displacer 28 is movable relative to the applicator frame 12 and the material source 42. The displacer 28 is movable to place the displacer 28 in respective submerged and stowed states. In the example shown, the dispensing apparatus 10 is configured such that the material source 42 can be refilled with constituent material even while the displacer 28 remains in respective submerged states. Figure 5B , the displacer 28 is positioned so that a portion of the top opening 54 is uncovered when the displacer 28 is in a submerged state.

[0188] Additional constituent materials can be poured into the material source 42 through the uncovered area of ​​the top opening 54. In the example shown, the uncovered area can be approached laterally, from the outer lateral side, or longitudinally (such as from the front longitudinal side). Additional constituent materials can be poured through the uncovered area of ​​the top opening 54 to update the constituent material source in the material source 42. In some examples, the uncovered area can be up to about 20% of the total area of ​​the top opening 54. In some examples, the uncovered area can be up to about 30%, 40%, 50% or more of the total area of ​​the top opening 54. The uncovered area is configured to allow easy renewal of constituent materials without having to move the shifter 28 or remove and replace the material source 42 already set on the support 14. Thus, the fluid handling assembly 26 is configured to support the in-situ pouring of constituent materials for filling the material source 42.

[0189] During operation, the material sources 42a, 42b are mounted to the dispensing device 10 at the supports 14a, 14b, respectively. The shifters 28a, 28b are pivoted from respective stowed positions to respective submerged positions. The pumps 40a, 40b enter the material source 42 through the top opening 54 of the material source. The user can give a command from the controller 20 to power the motor 70 and cause the pump 40 to pump.

[0190] The battery 138 provides power to operate the motor 70. In the example shown, the inverter 140 converts the DC electrical signal from the battery 138 and outputs an AD electrical signal. The motor 70 provides power to the reciprocating piston 90 and pumps the component materials. The pump 40a pumps the first component material to the distribution manifold 32 through the supply line 30a. The pump 40b pumps the second component material to the distribution manifold 32 through the supply line 30b. The first component material and the second component material are output by the distribution manifold 32 to the mixing line 34. The distributor 36 receives the flow from the mixing line 34 and outputs the multi-component floor material.

[0191] The user can refill the material sources 42a, 42b through the top opening 54 of the material source 42 without having to place the shifter 28 in the retracted state. Alternatively, the user can move the shifter 28 to a corresponding retracted state relative to the applicator frame 12. In such a position, the wetted portion of the dispensing device 10 is still longitudinally arranged in front of the power source 134 and positioned away from the power source 134 to prevent any drops from reaching the power source 134. With the pump 40 moved to the retracted state, the material source 42 can be removed for storage or replacement. As discussed above, the fluid handling assembly 26 can be removed as a single unit for storage or replacement.

[0192] The dispensing device 10 provides significant advantages. A power source 134 is disposed on the dispensing device 10 to provide power for various electronic components of the dispensing device 10. The power source 134 is longitudinally located behind the fluid path of the dispensing device 10. Such positioning inhibits liquid migration to the power source 134, thereby protecting the power source 134 from liquid contamination. The battery 138 is at least partially disposed vertically above the top opening 54 of the material source 42, thereby positioning the battery 138 away from a position where liquid may flow in the event of a leak or drip. The power source 134 is disposed in the rearward portion 144, while the fluid path is located in the forward portion 142, thereby further isolating the power source 134 from the liquid.

[0193] In the example shown, with the battery 138 disposed vertically above the inverter 140, the inverter 140 and the battery 138 are disposed in a common housing 22, thereby causing heat to rise to the battery 138 to warm the battery 138 and provide more efficient operation of the battery 138. The module housing 56 may be open toward the power cavity in the housing 22 to further transfer heat to the battery 138 to warm the battery 138.

[0194] Power source 134 is disposed laterally between shifters 28 to provide balance to dispensing apparatus 10 and to position power source 134 away from the fluid path. Battery 138 is disposed laterally between shifters 28. Power source 134 is disposed vertically directly above shaft 136 to provide balance to dispensing apparatus 10 and to facilitate maneuvering at a job site, such as moving over a curb.

[0195] The supports 14 are laterally disposed outside the centerline LL, and the power source 134 is disposed across the centerline LL. The power source 134 is at least partially located laterally between the supports 14. This configuration positions the power source 134 laterally between the material sources 42 while being longitudinally located behind the material sources 42, thereby inhibiting liquid migration to the power source 134.

[0196] Fig. 6A is an isometric view of the dispensing apparatus 10 showing the dispensing support 24 positioned to position the dispenser 36 on the left lateral side of the applicator frame 12 . Figure 6B is a front elevation view of the dispensing apparatus 10 showing the dispensing support 24 disposed to position the dispenser 36 on the right lateral side of the applicator frame 12 . Figure 6C is a front elevation view of the dispensing apparatus 10 showing the dispensing support 24 positioned to position the dispenser 36 on the left lateral side of the applicator frame. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C Discuss together.

[0197] The dispensing support 24 extends outwardly from the applicator frame 12. The dispensing support 24 is configured to support the dispenser 36 relative to the other components of the dispensing apparatus 10. In the example shown, the dispensing support 24 is connected to the connecting bracket 62. The dispensing support 24 is supported by the connecting bracket 62 so that the dispensing support 24 moves with the connecting bracket 62. The dispensing support 24 forms a physical support element, but does not itself define any fluid path of the dispensing apparatus 10. The dispensing support 24 is configured to support the dispenser 36 at a desired position relative to the ground surface and the applicator frame 12 during operation of the dispensing apparatus 10 and when dispensing multi-component materials. In the example shown, the dispensing support 24 is mounted to the connecting bracket 62 so that the dispensing support 24 is installed and removed with the pump 40.

[0198] The distribution support 24 includes a distribution arm 146 and a receiving member 66. The distribution arm 146 is mounted to an arm column 132 protruding from the connecting bracket 62. The distribution arm 146 can move along the length of the arm column 132 to vertically reposition the distribution support 24. The distribution arm 146 can move along the arm column 132 to position the receiving member 66 closer to the ground surface or farther away from the ground surface. In the example shown, the distribution arm 146 includes a spacing arm 148 connected to the arm column 132, and the distribution arm 146 includes an extension arm 150 mounted to the spacing arm 148 and extending from the spacing arm 148. In the example shown, the extension arm 150 can be repositioned relative to the spacing arm 148 to manipulate the position of the distributor 36. Although the distribution arm 146 is shown as including a plurality of support arms, it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, the distribution arm 146 can be formed as a single piece extending outward from the arm column 132. As shown, the spacer arm 148 is mounted to the arm post 132 by an arm clamp 152a, and the extension arm 150 is mounted to the spacer arm 148 by an arm clamp 152b. It should be understood that the dispensing arm 146 formed from a single piece may be mounted at a single arm clamp.

[0199] The dispensing support 24 holds the dispenser 36 in a desired position for dispensing. In the example shown, the dispenser 36 is positionable to permit vertical and lateral positioning of the nozzles of the dispenser 36. The dispenser 36 is supported for lateral adjustment of the nozzles. The dispenser 36 is supported for vertical adjustment of the nozzles. The dispenser 36 is supported to pivot about a vertical axis for adjustment of the nozzles. The dispenser 36 is supported to rotate for angular adjustment of the nozzles.

[0200] A receiver 66 is provided at an end of the dispensing arm 146 opposite the arm post 132. In the example shown, the receiver 66 is mounted on the extension arm 150. The receiver 66 is configured to interface with the dispenser 36 and hold the dispenser 36 in a desired position. In the example shown, the dispenser 36 is mounted to a receiving bracket 68 of the receiver 66.

[0201] The dispensing support 24 is movable relative to the applicator frame 12 to position the dispenser 36 at a desired position relative to the dispensing device 10. In the example shown, the dispensing support 24 is movable to reposition the dispenser 36 laterally. The dispensing support 24 can be moved around the front end 44 of the applicator frame 12 to reposition the dispenser 36 between the left lateral side of the dispensing device 10 and the right lateral side of the dispensing device 10. For example, the dispensing support 24 can be pivoted on the arm column 132 to be repositioned. In some examples, the clamp can be tightened to fix the dispensing support 24 in the desired orientation. In some examples, the dispensing support 24 can be moved at least 90 degrees around the front end 44 of the applicator frame 12. In some examples, the dispensing support 24 can be moved at least 180 degrees around the front end 44 of the applicator frame 12. In some examples, the dispensing support 24 can be moved at least 210 degrees around the front end 44 of the applicator frame 12.

[0202] In some examples, the dispensing support 24 is movable to position the dispenser 36 laterally outward from the first rear wheel 48a on one lateral side of the dispensing apparatus 10 and laterally outward from the second rear wheel 48b on the opposite lateral side of the dispensing apparatus 10. The applicator arm can position the dispenser longitudinally forward of the front wheel 48b of the dispensing apparatus 10.

[0203] The distribution support 24 is configured to pivot laterally to position the dispenser 36 on a first lateral side of the longitudinal centerline LL of the distribution device 10 and on a second lateral side of the longitudinal centerline LL. In the example shown, the spacing arm 148 can be moved laterally relative to the applicator frame 12 to laterally position the dispenser 36. In the example shown, the extension arm 150 can be moved laterally relative to the spacing arm 148 to further facilitate the lateral repositioning of the dispenser 36. For example, the extension arm 150 can be pivoted laterally on the spacing arm 148 to position the dispenser 36. In this way, the distribution support 24 shown includes a dual lateral pivot for positioning the dispenser 36, but not all examples are so limited. In some examples, such as when the distribution arm 146 is a single component, the distribution support 24 can include a single lateral pivot for laterally positioning the dispenser 36.

[0204] In addition to or as an alternative to lateral positioning, the distribution support 24 can be moved relative to the applicator frame 12 to vertically position the dispenser 36. In some examples, the distribution arm 146 can be vertically pivoted relative to the applicator frame 12 to vertically reposition the dispenser 36. For example, the distribution arm 146 can be pivoted at the connection with the arm column 132 to vertically move the shifter 28 closer to or farther away from the ground surface. In addition or alternatively, the distribution arm 146 can be vertically moved relative to the connecting bracket 62 to vertically reposition the distribution support 24. For example, the distribution arm 146 can be vertically moved along the arm column 132 to reposition the dispenser 36. In the example shown, the spacer arm 148 can be vertically moved along the arm column 132 and can be fixed to the arm column 132 at various vertical positions along the arm column 132. Further, the extension arm 150 is vertically movable along and relative to the spacer arm 148 and can be fixed to the spacer arm 148 at various vertical positions along the spacer arm 148. The dispensing support 24 can move along a vertical axis (e.g., along the arm post 132) to move vertically relative to the applicator frame 12.

[0205] In the example shown, the distribution support 24 is Figure 6B is shown in a vertical upward position and in Figure 6C 148 is shown in the vertical downward position. Figure 6B The extension arm 150 is connected to the arm column 132 in the vertical upward position, and the extension arm 150 is connected to the arm column 132 in the vertical upward position. Figure 6B The spacer arm 148 is connected to the spacer arm 148 in the vertical upward position. Figure 6C The arm column 132 moves vertically downward to a vertical downward position, and the extension arm 150 moves vertically downward to a vertical downward position. Figure 6C The middle spacer arm 148 moves vertically downward to a vertical downward position. The vertical movement of the dispensing support 24 facilitates the vertical repositioning of the dispenser 36 relative to the ground surface. For example, the dispenser 36 can be vertically positioned closer to the ground surface during dispensing and can be raised relative to the ground surface for handling, storage, etc. when not dispensing.

[0206] The distribution support 24 provides significant advantages. The distribution support 24 facilitates the repositioning of the distributor 36 relative to the applicator frame 12 at a desired position. The distribution support 24 can be pivoted longitudinally around the front end 44 to position the distributor 36 laterally relative to the applicator frame 12. The distribution support 24 can position the distributor 36 laterally outside the other components of the distribution device 10, so that the distribution device 10 can roll along the ground surface while distributing the floor material without worrying about rolling over the uncured floor material. The distribution support 24 can vertically reposition the distributor 36 to allow the distributor 36 to be vertically closer to or vertically farther from the ground surface as desired. In the example shown, the user can loosen one or more arm clamps 152a, 152b to position the shifter 28 laterally and / or vertically, and can tighten one or more arm clamps 152a, 152b to fix the position of the distributor 36. In some examples, the arm clamps 152a, 152b are configured to movably secure the dispenser 36 relative to the applicator frame 12. The dispenser 36 can be movably secured so that the arm clamps 152a, 152b hold the dispenser 36 in a desired position, but so that a user can reposition the dispenser 36 by applying a force on the dispensing support 24 without having to manipulate the arm clamps 152a, 152b.

[0207] Figure 7 6 is a front elevation view of the dispensing apparatus 10, showing the dispenser 36 disassembled from the dispensing support 24. As discussed above, the dispenser 36 may be removably mounted to the receptacle 66. The dispenser 36 may be disassembled from the receptacle 66 and manually aimed and positioned for dispensing from the dispenser 36. As shown, the mixing line 34 is unsupported between the dispensing manifold 32 and the dispenser 36. The mixing line 34 is not fixed to the dispensing support 24. The mixing line 34 may be formed as a flexible hose so that the mixing line 34 may flex when the dispenser 36 is positioned, which facilitates repositioning by the dispensing support 24 and manual positioning when the dispenser 36 is disassembled. The dispenser 36 may be disassembled simply by removing the dispenser 36 from the receptacle 66 without having to manipulate any connectors that secure the mixing line 34 to the dispensing support 24.

[0208] The dispenser 36 can be mounted to or removed from the receiver 66 without the use of tools. In the example shown, the dispenser 36 is held by the receiver 66 but is not fixed to the receiver 66. In the example shown, the dispenser 36 can be mounted to the receiver 66 by moving the dispenser 36 through the opening of the receiving bracket 68 so that the dispenser 36 extends through the receiver 66. The dispenser 36 can be removed from the receiver 66 by moving the dispenser 36 in the opposite direction and pulling the dispenser 36 out of the receiver 66. The dispenser 36 is withdrawn from the opening through the receiving bracket 68, thereby being removed from the dispensing support 24. The dispenser 36 can be mounted to or removed from the receiver 66 by moving the dispenser 36 along the axis of the dispenser 36 and relative to the receiver 66.

[0209] With the dispenser 36 detached from the dispensing support 24, the user can hold the dispenser 36 and position the dispenser 36 in a desired position. Figure 7 As shown, dispenser 36 can be placed in or held above a bucket to perform dispensing into the bucket, such as during cleaning of a fluid path with a solvent or dispensing of a large amount of material for use in other locations where a bucket or other container can be carried. Dispenser 36 can be positioned at locations where dispensing apparatus 10 may be difficult to reach, thereby allowing mixing and dispensing of multi-component flooring materials at such difficult to reach locations.

[0210] Figure 8 1 is an isometric view of the dispensing apparatus 10, wherein the dispenser 36 is shown in a displaced state. The dispenser 36 is mounted to and supported by the dispensing support 24. The dispensing support 24 can be repositioned to adjust the orientation of the nozzle 64 of the dispenser 36. The dispensing support 24 extends away from the applicator frame 12 along the arm axis AA. In the example shown, the arm axis AA extends along the extension arm 150 of the dispensing arm 146. The extension arm 150 is elongated along the arm axis AA. The dispensing support 24 can be pivoted on the arm axis AA to reposition the dispenser 36. In the example shown, the extension arm 150 can be rotated on the arm axis AA so that the nozzle 64 of the dispenser 36 can be pivoted away from the ground surface to Figure 8 8. In some examples, in addition to or as an alternative to the extension arm 150 pivoting, the spacing arm 148 may similarly pivot relative to the arm post 132 .

[0211] With the dispenser 36 in the displaced state, the nozzle 64 is not oriented vertically downward toward the ground surface. Instead, the dispenser 36 extends longitudinally. The dispenser 36 can be placed in the displaced state to facilitate cleaning of the fluid handling components with solvent. For example, solvent can be pumped by pumps 40a, 40b through supply lines 30a, 30b, through the distribution manifold 32, through the mixing line 34, and output from the dispensing apparatus 10 through the dispenser 36. The solvent is typically collected in a container, such as a bucket. The dispensing support 24 can be positioned to position the dispenser in the dispensing state (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2 ). FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C The dispenser 36 is pivoted to the displaced position to allow the bucket to be removed. A new bucket can be placed under the dispenser 36 for additional cleaning as needed. Positioning the dispenser 36 in the displaced position can inhibit dripping and other leakage of the dispenser 36, thereby allowing the user time to change containers.

[0212] The distribution support 24 provides significant advantages. The distribution support 24 keeps the dispenser 36 away from other parts of the distribution device 10, thereby allowing the floor material to be discharged at a position where the distribution device 10 will not roll over the newly distributed floor material. The distribution support 24 is adjustable to reposition the dispenser 36 to a desired position. The distribution support 24 is laterally adjustable to reposition the dispenser 36 around the front end 44 of the applicator frame 12. The distribution support 24 can laterally position the dispenser 36 on the outside of the applicator frame 12 on either lateral side of the distribution device 10. The distribution support 24 can laterally position the dispenser 36 on the outside of the applicator frame 12 on either lateral side of the distribution device 10. The distribution support 24 can laterally position the dispenser 36 on the outside of the wheel 48 on either lateral side of the distribution device 10. The distribution support 24 can be adjusted vertically to reposition the dispenser 36 vertically closer to the ground surface or vertically farther away from the ground surface. In some examples, the distribution support 24 can be pivoted to vertically adjust the position of the dispenser 36. In some examples, the distribution support 24 can be raised to vertically adjust the position of the dispenser 36. The dispensing support 24 may be rotationally adjustable to reorient the nozzle 64 of the dispenser 36. Rotationally adjustable dispensing support 24 allows the dispenser 36 to be oriented to facilitate placement or removal of a bucket beneath the dispenser 36. Rotationally adjustable dispensing support 24 may position the dispenser 36 to inhibit dripping onto a floor surface, such as during transport or cleaning of the fluid path.

[0213] Fig.9A is a block diagram showing the displacer 28 in a submerged state. Fig. 9Bis a block diagram showing the shifter 28 in a raised, stowed state. The shifter 28 and a material source 42 are shown. A portion of the applicator frame 12 is shown, but other portions of the dispensing apparatus 10 are omitted for clarity. The pump 40 is mounted to the drive assembly 38. The shifter 28 is shown in a raised, stowed state in which the shifter 28 is configured to move vertically between a submerged state and a stowed state. A mounting bracket 58' extends between the drive assembly 38 to the applicator frame 12 and connects the drive assembly 38 to the applicator frame 12. The lifter 158 is connected to the drive assembly 38 and the applicator frame 12. In the example shown, the lifter 158 is directly connected to the mounting bracket 58' and is connected to the drive assembly 38 through the mounting bracket 58'.

[0214] The lifter 158 is configured to displace the displacer 28 between the submerged state and the stowed state. In the example shown, the displacer 28 is configured to move axially along the pump axis PA between the submerged state and the stowed state. With the displacer 28 in the stowed state, the drive assembly 38 and the pump 40 are both disposed vertically directly above the top opening 54 of the material source 42.

[0215] The lifter 158 may have any desired configuration suitable for vertically displacing the shifter 28. For example, the lifter 158 may be configured as a rack and pinion configuration, may be configured as a pulley assembly, may be configured as one or more pistons (e.g., pneumatic pistons, etc.) that displace the shifter 28, etc. The lifter 158 is configured to displace the shifter 28 between a submerged state and a stowed state.

[0216] Fig. 10A is a first isometric view of the dispensing apparatus 10'. Fig. 10B is a second isometric view of dispensing apparatus 10'. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B Discuss together.

[0217] The floor dispensing apparatus 10' includes a dispenser 36. The dispenser 36 may include a static mixer. The dispenser 36 includes a nozzle, such as located at one end of the static mixer. Similar to the dispensing support 24 (best seen in FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C and Figure 8 ), the positionable holder 24' positions the nozzle of the dispenser 36 in various positions and orientations. For example, the lateral sliding arm 160 can extend the dispenser 36 laterally. The vertical arm 162 allows the height of the dispenser 36 to be adjusted. The pivot arm 164 allows the dispenser 36 to be adjusted forward and backward and left and right. The dispenser 36 can be mounted on the left or right side of the dispensing device 10', but in the illustrated configuration, the dispenser is located on the right side of the dispensing device 10'.

[0218] The distribution manifold 32 is configured to receive a feed of a first component material and a second component material. The first component material and the second component material may be mixed in the manifold 32, or may be mixed only in a static mixer of the distributor 36. In the example shown, the manifold 32 and the distributor 36 may be considered to form a distribution assembly mounted to the holder 24'. In the example shown, the distributor 36 is directly mounted to the manifold 32 to receive the component materials directly from the distribution manifold 32, but it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. The feed lines 170a, 170b extend between the material sources 42a, 42b and the pumps 40a, 40b, respectively. The supply lines 30a, 30b extend from the pumps 40a, 40b to the manifold 32.

[0219] The dispensing apparatus 10' comprises a first material source 42a and a second material source 42b containing a first component material and a second component material, respectively. The material sources 42a, 42b may be barrels or the like.

[0220] The material source 42 is supported by the applicator frame 12. The applicator frame 12 may be a metal tubular structure or the like. The applicator frame 12 rolls on a plurality of wheels. In this embodiment, a pair of rear wheels 48a support the frame 12 along with front casters 48b that rotate about a vertical axis for steering.

[0221] The dispensing apparatus 10 ′ includes a proportioner 168. The proportioner 168 includes a first pump 40a and a second pump 40b in an integrated unit driven by a motor (not shown). The first pump 40a and the second pump 40b have equal displacements so that a 1:1 ratio will be dispensed. To dispense other ratios, the pumps can be modified for different displacements. For example, the second pump 40b can be replaced with another pump having a different displacement capacity to pump more or less of the second component material with each stroke.

[0222] In various other embodiments, each of the first pump 40a and the second pump 40b is driven by an independent motor, and the corresponding speeds of these motors can be changed to change the output for a mixing ratio of 1:1 or 1:X (where X is not 1). In this way, the ratio can be electrically controlled by the corresponding motor driving the corresponding pumps 40a and 40b. When using the corresponding first pump 40a and the second pump 40b, similar to the dispensing device 10, the pumps can be mounted on the material source 42 respectively, so that the lower end of each pump is immersed in the corresponding first component material or the second component material. In this case, the motor can be integrated with the pumps 40a and 40b, respectively, as discussed above with respect to the shifter 28. In such an example, each of the pumps 40a, 40b can be moved (e.g., pivoted or raised) to withdraw the lower end of the pump from the material source 42 to allow the material source to be replaced. In some examples, each pump can be independently pivoted to allow one material source to be replaced, but not another material source.

[0223] Although the material source 42 is shown as being directly above the rear wheels 48a, in various other embodiments, the bottom of the material source 42 is located below the top of the rear wheels 48a. In such embodiments, similar to the dispensing apparatus 10, the material source 42 can be located in front of the rear wheels 48a and behind the front wheels 48b.

[0224] The dispensing device 10' includes a controller 20. The controller 20 may include a steering structure, such as a handle, a steering wheel, or other structure as shown. The dispensing device 10' may be pushed or pulled by a user's hand holding the controller 20. The controller 20 may include more inputs, which may be electronic inputs, such as buttons or switches, for controlling the proportioner 168 or otherwise controlling the motor(s) to control the pump 40 for dispensing.

[0225] The one or more motors driving the pump 40 may be electric motors. The electric motors may be powered by one or more batteries stored in a battery compartment 166. The battery compartment 166 may be supported by the applicator frame 12.

[0226] In use, a user can propel the floor dispensing device 10' along the floor by pushing or pulling the controller 20 while actuating the input to cause the motor(s) powered by the battery in the battery compartment 166 to operate the pump 40, which causes the first pump 40a and the second pump 40b to draw components from the material source 42 into the dispenser 36 for mixing and dispensing onto the floor surface. The cart configuration allows the dispensing device 10' to dispense and move along the floor surface simultaneously.

[0227] The distributor 36 may include a first valve (not shown) that prevents the first fluid from flowing to mix with the second fluid until the first valve is overcome by the upstream pressure from the first pump 40a, and a second valve (not shown) that prevents the second fluid from flowing to mix with the first fluid until the second valve is overcome by the upstream pressure from the second pump 40b. This can prevent cross-mixing from occurring at an upstream location of the distributor 36.

[0228] Although the present invention has been described with reference to (multiple) exemplary embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and elements thereof may be substituted with equivalents without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt particular circumstances or materials to its teachings without departing from the essential scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the disclosed (multiple) specific embodiments, and the present invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A mobile floor surface dispensing device for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing device comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material and the second material source holding a source of a second material; a first displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; as well as a second displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; The first shifter and the second shifter are movable relative to the applicator frame between a corresponding submerged state and a corresponding retracted state, wherein in the corresponding submerged state, the first shifter extends through a top opening of the first material source into the first material source, and the second shifter extends through a top opening of the second material source into the second material source, and in the corresponding retracted state, the first shifter is removed from the first material source and is at least partially disposed above the top opening of the first material source, and the second shifter is removed from the second material source and is at least partially disposed above the top opening of the second material source.

2. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first shifter comprises: a first drive assembly, the first drive assembly comprising a first motor; as well as a first pump connected to the first drive assembly to be powered by the first drive assembly for pumping; Wherein the first pump extends through a top opening of the first material source into the first material source when the first displacer is in a first one of the respective submerged states.

3. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 2, wherein with the first displacer in the first submerged state, the rigid fluid inlet of the first pump is disposed within the first material source.

4. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second displacer comprises: a second drive assembly, the second drive assembly comprising a second electric motor; as well as a second pump connected to the second drive assembly to pump powered by the second drive assembly; Wherein the second pump extends through a top opening of the second material source into the second material source when the second displacer is in a second one of the respective submerged states.

5. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein a first fluid inlet of a first pump of the first displacer is disposed vertically directly above a top opening of the first material source with the first displacer in a first of the respective stowed states.

6. The mobile floor surface dispensing device of claim 5 , wherein when the first shifter is in the first retracted state, at least a portion of the first drive assembly is connected to the first pump to be powered for pumping by the first pump, and at least a portion of the first drive assembly is not directly vertically disposed above a top opening of the first material source.

7. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 6, wherein the first drive assembly is disposed vertically directly above a top opening of the first material source with the first displacer in a first of the respective submerged states.

8. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 5, wherein with the first displacer in the first stowed state, the first displacer is angled downwardly toward a top opening of the first material source.

9. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 5, wherein with the first displacer in the first stowed state, at least a portion of the motor of the first displacer is disposed vertically above the first pump of the first displacer.

10. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first shifter is configured to pivot between a first one of the respective submerged states and a first one of the respective stowed states.

11. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 10, wherein: The first displacer includes a first drive assembly having a first motor and includes a first pump having a first piston configured to be driven by the first drive assembly to reciprocate along a first pump axis, the first drive assembly being mounted to the applicator frame at a first pivot point.

12. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first pump is removable from the first drive assembly.

13. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first pump is configured to move radially relative to the first pump axis to be removed from the first drive assembly.

14. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 13, wherein the first piston comprises a first piston head and the first drive assembly comprises a slotted connector, the first piston head being configured to slide into the slotted connector to mount the first pump to the first drive assembly and to slide out of the slotted connector to remove the first pump from the first drive assembly.

15. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein: The second shifter includes a second drive assembly having a second motor, and includes a second pump having a second piston configured to be driven by the second drive assembly to reciprocate along a second pump axis; and The second drive assembly is mounted to the applicator frame at a second pivot point.

16. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 15, wherein the second pump is removable from the second drive assembly.

17. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the first displacer is connected to the second displacer such that the first and second displacers move together between the respective submerged state and the respective stowed state.

18. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein: The first displacer includes a first drive assembly having a first motor, and includes a first pump having a first piston configured to be driven by the first drive assembly to reciprocate along a first pump axis; The second shifter includes a second drive assembly having a second motor, and includes a second pump having a second piston configured to be driven by the second drive assembly to reciprocate along a second pump axis; The first pump is removably mounted to the first drive assembly, and the second pump is removably mounted to the second drive assembly; and The first pump and the second pump are fixed together so that the first pump and the second pump can be installed and removed at the same time.

19. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 18, wherein the first pump is secured to the second pump by a connecting bracket.

20. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 19, wherein the first drive assembly is secured to the second drive assembly by the first pump, the second pump, and the connecting bracket.

21. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 18 and 19, wherein the connecting bracket straddles the longitudinal centre line of the dispensing apparatus.

22. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first and second shifters are configured to be vertically raised between the respective submerged conditions and the respective stowed conditions.

23. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 22, comprising at least one of a rack and pinion, a piston, and a pulley to vertically displace the first and second displacers.

24. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 22 and 23, wherein: a first motor of the first displacer and a first pump of the first displacer disposed vertically directly above a top opening of the first material source with the first displacer in a first of the respective stowed states; and The second motor of the second displacer and the second pump of the second displacer are disposed vertically directly above the top opening of the second material source with the second displacer in a second one of the respective retracted states.

25. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 24, further comprising: A position lock is configured to secure the first shifter in a first stowed state of the corresponding stowed states.

26. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 25, wherein said position lock is configured to secure said first displacer in a first one of said respective submerged states.

27. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 25 and 26, wherein the position lock is configured to engage the applicator frame in a locked state, wherein the position lock secures the first shifter relative to the applicator frame.

28. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein: The first displacer includes a first drive assembly having a first motor, and includes a first pump having a first piston configured to be driven by the first drive assembly to reciprocate along a first pump axis; The second shifter includes a second drive assembly having a second motor, and includes a second pump having a second piston configured to be driven by the second drive assembly to reciprocate along a second pump axis; the first pump being secured to the second pump; The first pump is removable from the first drive assembly by radial movement relative to the first pump axis; and The second pump is removable from the second drive assembly by radial movement relative to the second pump axis.

29. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 28, wherein the first pump is mountable to the first drive assembly for radial movement relative to the first pump axis, and the second pump is mountable to the second drive assembly for radial movement relative to the second pump axis.

30. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 28 and 29, wherein the first pump is secured to the second pump such that the first pump and the second pump can be installed together as a single pumping assembly and can be removed together as the single pumping assembly.

31. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein all fluid handling portions of the mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus are installable and removable as a single unit.

32. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 20 and 22 to 31, further comprising: A power source is supported by the applicator frame and configured to provide power to the first and second displacers.

33. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 32, wherein the power source is disposed longitudinally rearwardly of the at least one support member.

34. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 32 and 33, wherein the power source straddles the longitudinal centerline of the applicator frame.

35. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 34 wherein the power source comprises a battery.

36. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 35, wherein the power source further comprises an inverter.

37. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 36, wherein the battery is disposed vertically directly above the inverter.

38. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 36 and 37, wherein the battery and the inverter are provided in a common housing.

39. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein at least a portion of the battery is disposed vertically above a top opening of the first material source.

40. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 35-39, wherein at least a portion of the battery is disposed vertically above an inlet of a first pump of the first displacer with the first displacer in a first of the respective stowed states.

41. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 35 to 40, wherein the battery is disposed laterally between the first displacer and the second displacer.

42. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 35 to 41, wherein the battery is disposed laterally directly between the first displacer and the second displacer with the first displacer and the second displacer in the respective stowed conditions.

43. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 42, wherein the power source is disposed vertically directly above a rear axle connecting a first rear wheel of the plurality of wheels and a second rear wheel of the plurality of wheels.

44. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 42, wherein the power source is disposed vertically directly above a conduit extending between an axis of rotation of a first rear wheel of the plurality of wheels and an axis of rotation of a second rear wheel of the plurality of wheels.

45. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 44, wherein the power source is disposed transversely between the first displacer and the second displacer.

46. ​​The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 45, wherein the power source is disposed laterally directly between the first displacer and the second displacer with the first displacer and the second displacer in the respective stowed states.

47. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein: The plurality of wheels includes a front wheel and a pair of rear wheels, the front wheel being formed as a caster configured to roll and pivot.

48. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 47, wherein the front wheels are disposed on a longitudinal centerline of the dispensing apparatus.

49. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 47 and 48, wherein: The at least one support member includes a first support member and a second support member; The first support and the second support are disposed on opposite lateral sides of the front wheel.

50. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: A dispensing support is configured to support the dispenser, wherein the dispensing support is movable to position the dispenser on a first lateral side of a longitudinal centerline of the dispensing apparatus and on a second lateral side of the longitudinal centerline.

51. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 50, wherein the dispensing support is configured to position the dispenser laterally outward from a first lateral side of the applicator frame and laterally outward from a second lateral side of the applicator frame.

52. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 50, wherein the dispensing support is vertically movable relative to the applicator frame.

53. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 52, wherein the dispensing support is configured to move along a vertical axis for vertical movement relative to the applicator frame.

54. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 50 to 53 wherein the dispensing support is rotatable to reorient the nozzle of the dispenser between a plurality of orientations.

55. A mobile floor surface dispensing device according to claim 54, wherein the dispensing support is movable between a first orientation of the plurality of orientations and a second orientation of the plurality of orientations, wherein the first orientation the nozzle of the dispenser is oriented vertically and the second orientation the nozzle is oriented between vertical and horizontal.

56. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 54 and 55 wherein the dispensing support pivots to reorient the dispenser.

57. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 50 to 56, wherein the dispensing support includes a receiving member configured to retain the dispenser.

58. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 57, wherein the dispenser is held by but not secured to the receiver.

59. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 57 and 58, wherein said dispenser is tool-free mountable to and removable from said receptacle.

60. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 57 to 59, wherein the dispenser is mountable to and removable from the receptacle by movement of the dispenser along an axis of the dispenser and relative to the receptacle.

61. A mobile floor surface dispensing device according to any one of claims 57 to 60, wherein the receiving member includes a receiving bracket, the receiving bracket includes a first opening and a second opening, and wherein when the dispenser is mounted to the receiving member, the dispenser protrudes through each of the first opening and the second opening.

62. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 50 to 61, wherein: The first displacer includes a first drive assembly having a first motor, and includes a first pump having a first piston configured to be driven by the first drive assembly to reciprocate along a first pump axis; The second shifter includes a second drive assembly having a second motor, and includes a second pump having a second piston configured to be driven by the second drive assembly to reciprocate along a second pump axis; The first pump is fixed to the second pump via a connecting bracket; and The distribution support is connected to and supported by the connection bracket.

63. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 62, wherein the first pump, the second pump, the connector bracket, and the dispensing support are mountable to the first drive assembly and the second drive assembly as a single unit.

64. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 50 to 63, wherein the dispensing support is movable at least 90 degrees about the front longitudinal end of the applicator frame.

65. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 64 wherein said dispensing support is movable at least 180 degrees about said front longitudinal end of said applicator frame.

66. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 65 wherein said dispensing support is movable at least 210 degrees about said front longitudinal end of said applicator frame.

67. A mobile floor surface dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the first pump of the first shifter, the second pump of the second shifter, the first supply pipeline connected to the first pump to receive the first material from the first pump, the second supply pipeline connected to the second pump to receive the second material from the second pump, and the distribution manifold connected to the first supply pipeline and the second supply pipeline to receive the first material and the second material can be installed and removed as a single unit.

68. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material and the second material source holding a source of a second material; a first displacer supported by the applicator frame, the first displacer comprising a first pump configured to draw the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; a second displacer supported by the applicator frame, the second displacer comprising a second pump configured to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; a first supply line extending from the first pump to a distribution manifold, the first supply line configured to receive the first material output by the first displacer; as well as a second supply line extending from the second pump to the distribution manifold, the second supply line configured to receive the second material output by the second displacer; The first pump, the second pump, the first supply line, the second supply line and the distribution manifold are connected together as a fluid handling assembly, and the fluid handling assembly is configured to move together as a single unit between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the first pump and the second pump are in corresponding immersed states. In the corresponding immersed states, the first pump extends through the top opening of the first material source into the first material source, and the second pump extends through the top opening of the second material source into the second material source, and in the second state, the first pump and the second pump are in corresponding retracted states. In the corresponding retracted states, the first pump is removed from the first material source and at least partially disposed above the top opening of the first material source, and the second pump is removed from the second material source and at least partially disposed above the top opening of the second material source.

69. A mobile floor surface dispensing device according to claim 68, wherein the fluid handling component includes a mixing line, which extends from the distribution manifold to the distributor to fluidly connect the distribution manifold and the distributor, and the mixing line is configured to receive the first material and the second material from the distribution manifold.

70. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 68 and 69 wherein said fluid treatment assembly comprises said dispenser.

71. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 68 to 70, further comprising: A connecting bracket extends between the first pump and the second pump and fixes the first pump and the second pump together.

72. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 71 wherein said distribution manifold is secured to said connecting bracket.

73. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 72, wherein the first supply line is secured to the connecting bracket and the second supply line is secured to the connecting bracket.

74. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 71 to 73, further comprising: A dispensing support is connected to the connecting bracket and protrudes outwardly from the connecting bracket, wherein the dispenser is supported by the dispensing support.

75. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 74, wherein the dispenser is mountable to and removable from a receiving bracket of the dispensing support.

76. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 69 to 75, wherein the fluid handling assembly is removably mountable to the first drive assembly of the first displacer and the second drive assembly of the second displacer as the single unit.

77. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 76, wherein the first pump moves radially relative to a first pump axis, and the first piston of the first pump reciprocates along the first pump axis to be mounted to and removed from the first drive assembly.

78. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 76 and 77, wherein the first drive assembly and the second drive assembly move with the fluid handling assembly between the respective submerged conditions and the respective stowed conditions.

79. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 69 to 78, wherein the fluid treatment assembly is configured to pivot relative to the applicator frame between the respective submerged condition and the respective stowed condition.

80. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 69 to 79, wherein the fluid treatment assembly is connected to the applicator frame by the first and second shifters.

81. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material and the second material source holding a source of a second material; A first shifter, the first shifter being supported by the applicator frame, the first shifter comprising: a first drive assembly; and a first pump connected to the first drive assembly to be driven by the first drive assembly to draw the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; wherein the first pump is removably mounted to the first drive assembly; and a second shifter, the second shifter being supported by the applicator frame, the second shifter comprising: a second drive assembly; and a second pump connected to the second drive assembly to be driven by the second drive assembly to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; wherein the second pump is removably mounted to the second drive assembly; The first pump is fixed to the second pump so that the first pump and the second pump can be removed from the first drive assembly and the second drive assembly together, and can be installed from the first drive assembly and the second drive assembly together.

82. The floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 81 further comprising: A connecting bracket extends between a first pump housing of the first pump and a second pump housing of the second pump and is connected to the first pump housing and the second pump housing.

83. The floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 81 and 82, wherein the first pump is mounted to the first drive assembly at a first static interface and a first dynamic interface, the first dynamic interface displacing a first piston of the first pump.

84. The floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 83, wherein the first static interface is secured by a first clamp.

85. The floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 83 and 84, wherein the second pump is mounted to the second drive assembly at a second static interface and a second dynamic interface, the second dynamic interface displacing a second piston of the second pump.

86. The floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 85, wherein the second static interface is secured by a second clamp.

87. The floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 81 to 86, wherein the first pump is configured to be mounted to and removed from the first drive assembly by radial movement of the first pump relative to a first pump axis of the first pump.

88. The floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 87, wherein the second pump is configured to be mounted to and removed from the second drive assembly by radial movement of the second pump relative to a second pump axis of the second pump.

89. A floor surface dispensing device according to any one of claims 81 to 88, wherein the first shifter and the second shifter are movable relative to the applicator frame and between a corresponding immersed state and a corresponding retracted state, wherein in the corresponding immersed state, the first pump extends through the top opening of the first material source into the first material source and the second pump extends through the top opening of the second material source into the second material source, and in the corresponding retracted state, the first pump is removed from the first material supply and is at least partially disposed above the top opening of the first material source, and the second pump is removed from the second material source and is at least partially disposed above the top opening of the second material source.

90. The floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 81 to 89, wherein the first shifter is connected to the applicator frame at a first pivot point, the first shifter being pivotable relative to the applicator frame.

91. The floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 90, wherein the second shifter is connected to the applicator frame at a second pivot point, and the second shifter is pivotable relative to the applicator frame.

92. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material and the second material source holding a source of a second material; A first shifter, the first shifter being supported by the applicator frame, the first shifter comprising: a first drive assembly; and a first pump connected to the first drive assembly to be driven by the first drive assembly to draw the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; wherein the first shifter is movable relative to the applicator frame between a first submerged state and a first stowed state, in which the first inlet of the first pump is vertically disposed below a top opening of the first material source, and in which the first inlet of the first pump is vertically disposed above a top opening of the first material source in the first stowed state; a second shifter, the second shifter being supported by the applicator frame, the second shifter comprising: a second drive assembly; and a second pump connected to the second drive assembly to be driven by the second drive assembly to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; The second shifter is movable relative to the applicator frame between a second submerged state and a second retracted state, wherein in the second submerged state the second inlet of the second pump is vertically disposed below a top opening of the second material source, and in the second retracted state the second inlet of the second pump is vertically disposed above a top opening of the second material source.

93. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 92, wherein the first inlet is disposed on a first axis of the first pump, and a first piston of the first pump reciprocates along the first axis.

94. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 93, wherein the first inlet is formed through a pump housing of the first pump.

95. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 92 to 94, wherein the first drive assembly is mounted to the applicator frame and is movable relative to the applicator frame to move between the first submerged state and the first stowed state.

96. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 95 wherein said first drive assembly is mounted to said applicator frame at a first pivot point.

97. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 92 to 96, wherein the first pump is secured to the second pump such that the first displacer and the second displacer move together.

98. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material and the second material source holding a source of a second material; a first shifter supported by the applicator frame, the first shifter configured to shift the first material from the first material source to a dispenser, wherein the first shifter comprises: a first drive assembly comprising a first motor; and a first pump connected to the first drive and configured to be powered by the first drive to pump; and a second shifter supported by the applicator frame, the second shifter configured to shift the second material from the second material source to the dispenser, wherein the second shifter comprises: a second drive assembly including a second electric motor; and a second pump connected to the second drive and configured to be powered by the second drive for pumping; and wherein the first shifter is movable between a first submerged state in which the first pump extends into the first material source and a first retracted state in which the first pump is removed from the first material source and at least partially disposed above a top opening of the first material source; and The second shifter is movable between a second submerged state and a second retracted state, wherein in the second submerged state the second pump extends into the second material source, and in the second retracted state the second pump is removed from the second material source and at least partially disposed above a top opening of the second material source.

99. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 98, wherein the first pump includes a first piston configured to reciprocate along a pump axis within a first pump housing.

100. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 99, wherein a piston seal interfacing between the first piston and the first pump housing is disposed within the first material source with the first displacer in the first submerged state.

101. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 99 and 100, wherein the first pump comprises: a first valve configured to regulate flow of the first material into the first pump housing; as well as A second valve is supported by the first piston and configured to reciprocate with the first piston.

102. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 98 to 100, wherein with the first displacer in the first submerged state, an inlet valve of the first pump is disposed within the first material source.

103. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 98 to 102, wherein the first motor is vertically disposed directly above a top opening of the first material source with the first shifter in the first submerged state.

104. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 98 to 103, wherein the first shifter is configured to pivot between the first submerged state and the first stowed state.

105. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 104 wherein the first drive assembly is mounted to the applicator frame at a first pivot point and the first pump is supported by the first drive assembly for pivoting therewith.

106. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 105, wherein a first mounting bracket is connected to the applicator frame at the first pivot point and secured to the first drive assembly to connect the first drive assembly to the applicator frame.

107. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 105 wherein said first mounting bracket is connected to said applicator frame at a first bearing pivot and a second bearing pivot.

108. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 104 to 107, wherein when in the stowed condition, the first displacer is angled downwardly toward the first material source.

109. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 104 to 108, wherein the first shifter pivots less than 90 degrees between the first submerged condition and the first stowed condition.

110. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 98 to 109, wherein with the first shifter in the first stowed state, the first motor is not disposed vertically directly above a top opening of the first material source.

111. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 98 to 103, wherein the first shifter is configured to move vertically between the first submerged state and the first stowed state.

112. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 98 to 111, further comprising: A first position lock is configured to lock the first shifter in the first submerged state and to lock the first shifter in the first stowed state.

113. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 112 wherein said first position lock is spring biased to engage said applicator frame.

114. A mobile floor surface dispensing device according to any one of claims 98 to 113, wherein the first shifter is fixed to the second shifter so that the first shifter and the second shifter move together between the corresponding first submerged state and the second submerged state and the corresponding first retracted state and the second retracted state.

115. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 114, wherein a connecting bracket extends between and secures the first displacer and the second displacer together, the connecting bracket docking with the first pump and the second pump.

116. The mobile floor surface dispensing device of claim 115, wherein the connecting bracket protrudes longitudinally forwardly relative to the first shifter and the second shifter when the first shifter and the second shifter are in the respective first submerged state and the second submerged state.

117. A mobile floor surface distribution device according to any one of claims 115 and 116, wherein when the first shifter and the second shifter are in the respective first retracted state and the second retracted state, the connecting bracket protrudes vertically above the first shifter and the second shifter.

118. A mobile floor surface dispensing device according to any one of claims 115 to 117, wherein the dispenser is supported by the connecting bracket so that the dispenser moves with the first shifter and the second shifter between the corresponding first submerged state and the second submerged state and the corresponding first retracted state and the second retracted state.

119. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 115 to 118, further comprising: a distribution manifold configured to receive a flow of the first material from the first displacer and a flow of the second material from the second displacer; a first supply line extending from an outlet of the first pump to the distribution manifold; a second supply line extending from an outlet of the second pump to the distribution manifold; A mixing line extends from the distribution manifold to the distributor, the mixing line being configured to receive the first material from the distribution manifold and the second material from the distribution manifold.

120. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 119, wherein the first supply line and the second supply line move with the first shifter and the second shifter between the respective first submerged state and the second submerged state and the respective first stowed state and the second stowed state.

121. A mobile floor surface distribution device according to any one of claims 119 and 120, wherein the distribution manifold is connected to the connecting bracket so that the distribution manifold moves with the first shifter and the second shifter between the corresponding first immersed state and the second immersed state and the corresponding first retracted state and the second retracted state.

122. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 98 to 121, wherein the first pump is removably mounted to the first drive assembly and the second pump is removably mounted to the first drive assembly.

123. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 98, wherein: The first pump includes a piston configured to reciprocate along a pump axis; and The first pump is configured to be mounted to and removed from the first drive assembly by radial movement relative to the pump axis.

124. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 123, wherein: The piston includes a head; The first drive assembly includes a first driver configured to convert a rotational output from the first motor into a linear reciprocating motion; and The first driver includes a slot configured to receive the head.

125. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 124, wherein the first drive comprises: a drive nut connected to a rotor of the first motor to receive the rotational output from the first motor; as well as A screw is configured to be linearly driven along the pump axis by rotation of the drive nut.

126. A mobile floor surface dispensing device according to any one of claims 123 to 125, wherein the piston is at least partially disposed within a pump housing of the first pump, and when the first pump is mounted to the first drive assembly, the pump housing is docked with the drive plate of the first drive assembly.

127. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 126, further comprising: A first clamp secures the pump housing to the drive plate.

128. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 98, further comprising: a connecting bracket extending between the first pump and the second pump and connecting the first pump and the second pump; wherein the first pump is removably mounted to the first drive assembly; wherein the second pump is removably mounted to the second drive assembly; wherein the first pump and the second pump can be removed together by moving the connecting bracket away from the first drive assembly and the second drive assembly; and Wherein by moving the connecting bracket toward the first drive assembly and the second drive assembly, the first pump and the second pump can be installed together.

129. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 128 wherein the first drive assembly is mounted to the applicator frame at a first pivot point and the second drive assembly is mounted to the applicator frame at a second pivot point.

130. A mobile flooring dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 98 to 129, wherein the rotational axis of the first motor is arranged coaxially with the pump axis of the first piston of the first pump.

131. The mobile floor dispensing apparatus of claim 130, wherein the rotational axis of the second electric motor is disposed coaxially with a pump axis of the second piston of the second pump.

132. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material and the second material source holding a source of a second material; a first displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; a second displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; as well as A power source is supported by the applicator frame and configured to provide electrical power to the first and second displacers to power pumping of the first and second displacers.

133. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 132, wherein the power source is disposed longitudinally rearwardly of the at least one support member.

134. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 132 and 133, wherein the power source is disposed longitudinally rearward of the inlet of the first pump of the first displacer and the inlet of the second pump of the second displacer.

135. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 132 to 134 wherein the power source is disposed vertically above the at least one support.

136. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 135, wherein the power source is vertically disposed between a vertically uppermost portion of the first shifter and a vertically lowermost portion of the first shifter.

137. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 132 to 136 wherein the power source straddles the longitudinal centre line of the dispensing apparatus.

138. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 132 to 137 wherein the power source comprises a battery.

139. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 138, wherein the power source further comprises an inverter.

140. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 139, wherein the battery is disposed vertically directly above the inverter.

141. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 139 and 140, wherein the battery and the inverter are arranged in a common housing.

142. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 138 to 141, wherein at least a portion of the battery is disposed vertically above a top opening of the first material source.

143. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 138 to 142, wherein the battery is disposed laterally between the first displacer and the second displacer.

144. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 132 to 143, wherein the power source is disposed laterally between the first displacer and the second displacer.

145. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 132 to 144, wherein the power source is disposed vertically directly above a rear axle connecting a first rear wheel of the plurality of wheels and a second rear wheel of the plurality of wheels.

146. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 132 to 144, wherein the power source is disposed vertically directly above a pipeline extending between an axis of rotation of a first rear wheel of the plurality of wheels and an axis of rotation of a second rear wheel of the plurality of wheels.

147. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 132, wherein: wherein the first shifter is movable relative to the applicator frame between a first submerged state and a first stowed state, in which the first inlet of the first pump is vertically disposed below a top opening of the first material source, and in which the first inlet of the first pump is vertically disposed above a top opening of the first material source in the first stowed state; and The second shifter is movable relative to the applicator frame between a second submerged state and a second retracted state, wherein in the second submerged state the second inlet of the second pump is vertically disposed below a top opening of the second material source, and in the second retracted state the second inlet of the second pump is vertically disposed above a top opening of the second material source.

148. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 147, wherein at least a portion of a battery of the power source is disposed vertically above an inlet of a first pump of the first displacer with the first displacer in the first stowed state.

149. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 147, wherein a battery of the power source is disposed laterally directly between the first shifter and the second shifter when the first shifter is in the first retracted state and the second shifter is in the second retracted state.

150. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material and the second material source holding a source of a second material; a first displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; a second displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; as well as A power source is supported by the applicator frame and configured to provide power to the first shifter and the second shifter to power pumping of the first shifter and the second shifter, the power source comprising a battery and an inverter, wherein the battery is vertically disposed directly above the inverter.

151. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 150, wherein the battery and the inverter are disposed in a common housing.

152. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 150 and 151, wherein the power source is disposed vertically directly above a rear axle connecting a first rear wheel of the plurality of wheels and a second rear wheel of the plurality of wheels.

153. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 150 and 151, wherein the power source is disposed vertically directly above a pipeline extending between an axis of rotation of a first rear wheel of the plurality of wheels and an axis of rotation of a second rear wheel of the plurality of wheels.

154. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 150-153, wherein: The plurality of wheels includes a front wheel formed as a caster configured to roll and pivot.

155. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 154 wherein said power source and said front wheels are aligned on a longitudinal centerline of said dispensing apparatus.

156. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; a first support disposed on a first lateral side of a longitudinal centerline of the dispensing apparatus, the first support configured to support a first material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material; a second support disposed on a second lateral side of the longitudinal centerline, the second support configured to support a second material source, the second material source holding a source of a second material; a first displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; a second displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; as well as a power source supported by the applicator frame and configured to provide power to the first displacer and the second displacer to power pumping of the first displacer and the second displacer; The power source is longitudinally arranged behind the first supporting member and the second supporting member.

157. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 156, wherein the power source is disposed laterally between an outer lateral side of the first support and an outer lateral side of the second support.

158. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 156 and 157, wherein the power source is disposed transversely between the first material source and the second material source.

159. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 156 to 158, wherein the power source is disposed longitudinally rearwardly of the first displacer and the second displacer.

160. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 156 to 159, wherein the power source is disposed longitudinally rearward of the first pump of the first displacer and longitudinally rearward of the second pump of the second displacer.

161. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 156 to 160 wherein said power source is disposed on said longitudinal centre line.

162. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 156 to 161 wherein the power source comprises a battery.

163. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 162, wherein the power source comprises an inverter.

164. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material and the second material source holding a source of a second material; a first displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; a second displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; as well as a battery supported by the applicator frame and configured to provide power to the first displacer and the second displacer to power pumping of the first displacer and the second displacer; The battery is disposed laterally between the first shifter and the second shifter.

165. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 164, wherein the battery is disposed laterally between the first pump of the first displacer and the second pump of the second displacer.

166. A mobile floor surface distribution device according to any one of claims 164 and 165, wherein the first shifter and the second shifter are movable between corresponding submerged states and corresponding retracted states, and wherein when the first shifter and the second shifter are in the corresponding retracted states, the battery is directly laterally arranged between the first shifter and the second shifter.

167. A mobile floor surface dispensing device according to claim 166, wherein the battery is directly arranged laterally between the first motor of the first shifter and the second motor of the second shifter when the first shifter and the second shifter are in the corresponding stowed state.

168. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; a first support disposed on a first lateral side of a longitudinal centerline of the dispensing apparatus, the first support configured to support a first material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material; a second support disposed on a second lateral side of the longitudinal centerline, the second support configured to support a second material source, the second material source holding a source of a second material; a first displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; as well as a second displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; Wherein the first support is disposed at a first longitudinal forward-most lateral corner of the applicator frame, and the second support is disposed at a second longitudinal forward-most lateral corner of the applicator frame.

169. A mobile floor surface dispensing device according to claim 168, wherein the first shifter extends through at least a portion of the top opening of the first material source into the first material supply source, and when the first shifter extends into the first material source, the portion is exposed.

170. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 169, wherein said portion of said top opening of said first material source is exposed by at least 20%.

171. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 169, wherein said portion of said top opening of said first material source is exposed by at least 35%.

172. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 169, wherein said portion of said top opening of said first material source is exposed by at least 50%.

173. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support member connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support member configured to support a first material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material; as well as A first pump is supported by the applicator frame, the first pump being configured to displace the first material from the first material source to a dispenser, wherein the first pump is formed as an immersed pump such that at least one valve of the pump is disposed within the first material source.

174. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support member connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support member configured to support a first material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material; as well as A first pump is supported by the applicator frame, the first pump being configured to displace the first material from the first material source to a dispenser, wherein the first pump is formed as an immersed pump such that a piston seal of a piston of the first pump is disposed within the first material source.

175. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material and the second material source holding a source of a second material; a first displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; a second displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; as well as A dispensing support projects outwardly relative to the applicator frame, the dispensing support supporting the dispenser and being repositionable relative to the applicator frame.

176. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in claim 175, wherein the dispensing support is movable to position the dispenser on a first lateral side of a longitudinal centerline of the dispensing apparatus and on a second lateral side of the longitudinal centerline.

177. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 176 wherein said dispensing support is movable to position said dispenser laterally outward from a first lateral side of said applicator frame and laterally outward from a second lateral side of said applicator frame.

178. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 176 and 177, wherein the dispensing support is movable to longitudinally position the dispenser forward of the longitudinal forward end of the applicator frame.

179. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 176 to 178, wherein the dispensing support is movable to position the dispenser laterally outward from a first rear wheel of the plurality of wheels and laterally outward from a second rear wheel of the plurality of wheels.

180. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 176 to 179 wherein said dispensing support is movable to position said dispenser longitudinally forward of a front wheel of said plurality of wheels.

181. A mobile floor surface dispensing device according to any one of claims 176 to 180, wherein the dispensing support is configured to pivot laterally to position the dispenser on the first lateral side of the longitudinal centerline of the dispensing device and on the second lateral side of the longitudinal centerline.

182. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 175 to 181 wherein the dispensing support is movable about an arm axis to reorient the dispenser between a plurality of orientations.

183. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 175 to 182 wherein the dispensing support is vertically movable relative to the applicator frame.

184. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 183, wherein the dispensing support is configured to move along a vertical axis and relative to the applicator frame.

185. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 183, wherein the dispensing support is configured to pivot vertically to adjust the height of the dispenser.

186. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 175, wherein the dispensing support is configured to move laterally relative to the applicator frame, vertically relative to the applicator frame, and rotationally on an arm axis of a dispensing arm of the dispensing support.

187. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 175 to 186, wherein the dispensing support includes a receiving member configured to retain the dispenser.

188. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in claim 187, wherein said dispenser is held by but not secured to said receiving member.

189. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 and 188, wherein said dispenser is tool-free mountable to and removable from said receptacle.

190. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 187 to 189, wherein the dispenser is mountable to and removable from the receiver by movement of the dispenser along an axis of the dispenser and relative to the receiver.

191. A mobile floor surface dispensing device according to any one of claims 187 to 190, wherein the receiving member includes a receiving bracket, the receiving bracket includes a first opening and a second opening, and wherein when the dispenser is mounted to the receiving member, the dispenser protrudes through each of the first opening and the second opening.

192. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 175 to 191 wherein the dispensing support is movable at least 90 degrees about the front longitudinal end of the applicator frame.

193. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 192 wherein said dispensing support is movable at least 180 degrees about said front longitudinal end of said applicator frame.

194. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 193 wherein said dispensing support is movable at least 210 degrees about said front longitudinal end of said applicator frame.

195. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 175 to 194, further comprising: a connecting bracket extending between the first pump of the first shifter and the second pump of the second shifter to secure the first pump and the second pump together; as well as an arm column extending from the connecting bracket; The distribution arm of the distribution support is mounted to the arm column.

196. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to claim 195, wherein said dispensing arm is movable along the length of said arm column.

197. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 195 and 196, wherein said dispensing arm is pivotable about said arm column.

198. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 195 to 197, wherein the arm column extends vertically downwardly from the connecting bracket.

199. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 195 to 198, wherein the arm is disposed laterally between the first pump and the second pump.

200. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 195 to 199 wherein a handle extends from a side of the connecting bracket opposite the arm post.

201. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 195 to 200, further comprising: a distribution manifold mounted to the connection bracket; a first supply line extending between and fluidly connecting the first pump and the distribution manifold; a second supply line extending between and fluidly connecting the second pump and the distribution manifold; as well as A mixing line is connected to the distribution manifold to receive the first material and the second material from the distribution manifold, and the mixing line is connected to the distributor to fluidly connect the distribution manifold and the distributor.

202. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 195 to 201, wherein the dispensing arm comprises: a spacer arm connected to the arm post; as well as An extension arm is connected to the spacer arm and projects away from the spacer arm, wherein the dispenser is mounted to the extension arm.

203. The mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus of claim 202, wherein the extension arm is vertically movable along the spacing arm.

204. A mobile floor surface dispensing apparatus for applying a coating material to a floor surface, the dispensing apparatus comprising: an applicator frame; a plurality of wheels connected to the applicator frame and configured to support the applicator frame on the floor surface; at least one support connected to the applicator frame, the at least one support configured to support a first material source and a second material source, the first material source holding a source of a first material and the second material source holding a source of a second material; a first displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the first material from the first material source and pump the first material to a dispenser; a second displacer supported by the applicator frame and configured to draw the second material from the second material source and pump the second material to the dispenser; as well as A dispensing support protrudes outwardly relative to the applicator frame, the dispensing support supporting the dispenser, wherein the dispensing support is configured to move laterally relative to the applicator frame, vertically relative to the applicator frame, and rotationally on an arm axis of the dispensing support.

205. A mobile floor surface dispensing device for mixing a plurality of fluid components and then dispensing them, the dispensing device comprising: Multiple wheels; a frame, the frame being mounted on the plurality of wheels; one or more supports for holding a first source of material and a second source of material; a first pump receiving a first component material from the first material source and outputting the first component material; a second pump that receives a second component material from the second material source and outputs the second component material; one or more motors, the one or more motors operating the first pump and the second pump; as well as A dispenser receives the first component material output by the first pump and the second component material output by the second pump, the dispenser being configured to mix the first component material with the second component material and dispense the mixture of the first component material and the second component material onto a floor surface.

206. The dispensing apparatus of claim 205, further comprising a battery module that provides power to the one or more motors, the battery module being supported by the frame.

207. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 205 and 206 further includes a controller, wherein the controller includes a steering controller and one or more input ends, and the one or more input ends operate the one or more motors to cause the dispenser to dispense the mixture of the first component material and the second component material.

208. A dispensing device according to any one of claims 205 to 207, wherein a dispensing manifold disposed upstream of the dispenser and fluidly connected to the dispenser comprises a first valve and a second valve, wherein the first valve blocks the first component material from flowing to mix with the second component material until the first valve is overcome by upstream pressure from the first pump, and the second valve blocks the second component material from flowing to mix with the first component material until the second valve is overcome by upstream pressure from the second pump.

209. Dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 205 to 208, wherein the dispenser is positionable to permit vertical and lateral positioning of the nozzle of the dispenser.

210. The dispensing apparatus of claim 209, wherein the dispenser is supported by a holder including a first arm that slides laterally for lateral adjustment of the nozzle.

211. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 209 to 210, wherein the retaining member includes a second arm extending vertically for vertical adjustment of the nozzle.

212. Dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 209 to 211, wherein the holder comprises a third arm which pivots about a vertical axis for adjustment of the nozzle.

213. Dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 209 to 212, wherein the holder includes a fourth arm which rotates for angular adjustment of the nozzle.

214. A dispensing device according to any one of claims 205 to 213, wherein the distributor comprises a static mixer.

215. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 205 to 214, wherein the one or more motors include a first motor that drives both the first pump and the second pump.

216. The dispensing apparatus of claim 215, wherein the displacement of the first pump is different from the displacement of the second pump.

217. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 205 to 216, wherein the one or more motors include a first motor that drives the first pump and a second motor that drives the second pump.

218. The dispensing apparatus of claim 217, wherein the first motor is capable of operating at a different speed than the second motor to dispense the first fluid and the second fluid at a ratio other than 1:

1.

219. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 205 to 218, wherein the first pump comprises a first piston and the second pump comprises a second piston.

220. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 205 to 219, wherein the plurality of wheels comprises a front wheel and a pair of rear wheels, the front wheel being mounted as a castor for rotation about a vertical axis.

221. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 205 to 220, wherein the dispenser is selectively repositionable on a left or right lateral side of the dispensing apparatus.

222. A dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 205 to 221, wherein the first material source is a first barrel and the second material source is a second barrel.

223. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 205 to 222 further comprises a first hose and a second hose, wherein the first hose guides the first component material from the first material source to the first pump, and the second hose guides the second component material from the second material source to the second pump.

224. A dispensing device according to any one of claims 205 to 223, wherein the first pump is mounted on the first material source with the lower end immersed in the first component material, and the second pump is mounted on the second material source with the lower end immersed in the second component material.

225. Dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 205 to 224, wherein the first pump is mounted to be pivoted out of the first reservoir and the second pump is mounted to be pivoted out of the second reservoir.

226. The dispensing apparatus of claim 225, wherein each of the first pump and the second pump pivots independently of the other.

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