Cartridge and wet cleaning assembly

Abstract

A cartridge (100) attachable to a wet cleaning device, in particular a wet floor cleaning device, is provided. The wet cleaning apparatus has a volume displacement device (102) for dosing the surface treatment agent from the cartridge when the cartridge is attached to the wet cleaning apparatus. The cartridge includes a chamber (106) for containing a surface treatment agent. The cartridge also has an interface portion (107) for interfacing with the volume displacement device during attachment of the cartridge to define a dosing assembly (108). A first valve (116) is configured to move fluid out of or into the chamber by operation of the volume displacement device. A second valve (120) is configured to enable fluid to exit the dosing assembly, for example during displacement of fluid in the cartridge by fluid moved into the chamber by the volume displacement device, or during a fluid discharge action of the volume displacement device after an initial action of the volume displacement device moving fluid out of the chamber via the first valve. Each of the first and second valves can restrict passage of the surface treating agent therethrough prior to attachment of the cartridge. A cleaning assembly including the cartridge and the wet cleaning device is also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a housing that can be attached to a wet cleaning device (e.g., a wet floor cleaning device). The invention also relates to a wet cleaning assembly comprising such a housing and the wet cleaning device. Background Technology

[0002] Floors are typically cleaned using mops and buckets. However, a growing number of wet cleaning devices are attempting to replace these tools. Both manual and electric wet cleaning equipment have been proposed.

[0003] Such wet cleaning equipment typically includes a cleaning liquid reservoir, that is, a container containing the cleaning liquid to be delivered to the surface to be cleaned.

[0004] In some cases, a premixed solution of surface treatment agent (e.g., detergent) and water is used to fill the reservoir. When the reservoir is empty, it can be refilled with more premixed solution. There are wet cleaning devices that have a reservoir that can be filled with water by the user, who can also add their own surface treatment agent to the water in the reservoir. In the latter case, difficulties arise in controlling the ratio between water and surface treatment agent to produce a cleaning solution with the appropriate concentration of surface treatment agent.

[0005] Compared to older buckets, the capacity of the reservoir may be limited. This could mean that a surface treatment agent formulated for use in such a bucket (which can hold a larger volume of water for diluting the surface treatment agent) is unsuitable for use in the reservoir of a wet cleaning device because its concentration is too high.

[0006] Using cleaning solutions with excessively high concentrations of surface treatment agents can hinder / damage wet cleaning equipment or result in suboptimal cleaning outcomes. This problem can be mitigated by instructing the user to first add a limited amount of surface treatment agent to a metering cup with a defined capacity, and then transfer that amount to a reservoir. However, this additional step is often inconvenient for the user.

[0007] This becomes even more inconvenient when the concentration of the surface treatment agent is relatively high, because the user must very precisely meter a relatively small amount of surface treatment agent into the reservoir, which increases the burden.

[0008] AU 2020 100 206A4 discloses a cleaner that includes a fluid delivery system for providing cleaning fluid to a floor surface.

[0009] US11 219 347 B2 discloses an autonomous floor cleaner or floor cleaning robot, comprising an autonomously movable housing and a drive system for autonomously moving the autonomously movable housing over a surface to be cleaned based on input from a controller. A brush chamber, a debris container, and a supply tank are formed as an integral assembly removable from the autonomously movable housing.

[0010] EP 2 636 353 A2 discloses a surface cleaning device, such as a steam mop or a fluid delivery mop, which includes a handle and feet attached to the handle for movement along the surface to be cleaned. Summary of the Invention

[0011] This invention is defined by the claims.

[0012] According to an example of a first aspect of the invention, a cartridge is provided that can be attached to a wet cleaning device having a volume displacement device for metering a surface treatment agent from the cartridge. The cartridge includes: a chamber for containing the surface treatment agent; an interface portion for docking with the volume displacement device during attachment of the cartridge to define a metering assembly; a first valve configured to allow fluid to be moved out of or into the chamber by operation of the volume displacement device; and a second valve configured to allow fluid to leave the metering assembly, wherein the first valve and the second valve are each configured to restrict the passage of the surface treatment agent therethrough prior to attachment of the cartridge.

[0013] The inclusion of a first and second valve facilitates the metered supply of the surface treatment agent, such as by metering, and also contributes to the safe and reliable storage and / or transport of the cartridge in the presence of the surface treatment agent within the chamber. This feature makes the cartridge particularly advantageous in containing and metering relatively high concentrations of surface treatment agent. This is because the first and second valves help reduce the risks associated with the storage, transport, and unintentional overuse of such high concentrations of surface treatment agent during operation of wet cleaning equipment.

[0014] It should also be noted that the first and second valves may be components more prone to wear and deterioration during the operational life of the wet cleaning assembly, which includes the wet cleaning equipment and the cartridge. Therefore, by including the first and second valves in the cartridge (e.g., a disposable cartridge), they can be replaced directly while replenishing the surface treatment agent. Thus, replenishing the surface treatment agent can be advantageously combined with preventative maintenance of the wet cleaning assembly.

[0015] The interface portion of the box can be arranged relative to the first valve and / or the second valve such that when the metering supply component is defined by the interface portion connected to the volume displacement device, one or both of the first valve and the second valve cooperate with the volume displacement device, for example, by docking one or both of the first valve and the second valve with a port of the volume displacement device, through which fluid can be delivered.

[0016] In some embodiments, the cartridge may be attached to a cleaning liquid reservoir of a wet cleaning apparatus, wherein the surface treatment agent exiting the metering assembly may be received in the cleaning liquid reservoir. In such embodiments, the surface treatment agent may be metered into the cleaning liquid reservoir via the metering assembly, and thus the surface treatment agent may be diluted with the cleaning liquid contained in the cleaning liquid reservoir.

[0017] In some embodiments, the box is included in or may be attached to a cover for sealing the cleaning liquid storage tank.

[0018] This provides a convenient way to position the container. In use, when the cleaning liquid tank is closed by the cover, by arranging the cover above the cleaning liquid tank, the surface treatment agent from the container included in the cover can reach the diluted cleaning liquid (e.g., water) in the cleaning liquid tank with the help of gravity.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first valve includes a first check valve.

[0020] When the box is not attached to the wet cleaning equipment, the one-way valve design for the first valve can help retain the surface treatment agent in the chamber, while also facilitating the metered (e.g., metered) supply of the surface treatment agent from the chamber through the operation of the volume displacement device.

[0021] For example, the first check valve is selected from umbrella valves, duckbill valves, or ball check valves.

[0022] It should be noted that a ball check valve may include a ball component that is resiliently mounted to the valve seat.

[0023] The elastic mounting of the ball component to the valve seat can be achieved in any suitable manner, such as by connecting the ball component to a spring element of the valve seat.

[0024] For example, a ball check valve may include (e.g.) a spring-loaded ball valve, wherein the spring is formed of a metal or polymer material.

[0025] In a non-limiting example, the spring element may be formed of a polymer material, which connects a ball component formed of polymer material to a valve seat formed of polymer material. In such an example, the ball check valve may be formed as a single piece of polymer material.

[0026] The first check valve can have a standard design. Alternatively, the first check valve can have a custom design that makes it suitable for use in a box.

[0027] The aforementioned spring element (e.g., formed as a single piece) made of polymer material, which connects a ball component made of polymer material to a valve seat made of polymer material, can be considered an example of a custom design for a first check valve.

[0028] As an alternative to or supplement to the first valve, which includes the first check valve, the second valve may include a second check valve.

[0029] This one-way valve design for the second valve can facilitate the metered (e.g., metered) supply of the surface treatment agent from the chamber via the operation of the volume displacement device, while also helping to retain the surface treatment agent within the chamber when the cartridge is not attached to a wet cleaning device.

[0030] For example, the second check valve is selected from umbrella valves, duckbill valves, or ball check valves.

[0031] It should be reiterated that a ball check valve may include a ball component that is resiliently mounted to a valve seat, as described above with respect to the first check valve.

[0032] The second check valve can have a standard design. Alternatively, the second check valve can have a custom design that makes it suitable for use in a box or with a box.

[0033] The aforementioned spring element (e.g., formed as a single piece) made of polymer material, which connects a ball component made of polymer material to a valve seat made of polymer material, can be considered an example of a custom design for a second check valve.

[0034] In some embodiments, the housing includes a combined valve that integrates a first valve and a second valve. This combined valve can help simplify the assembly of the housing.

[0035] In such an embodiment, the first valve and the second valve may each include (for example, a check valve).

[0036] In some embodiments, the combination valve includes a first valve in the form of an umbrella valve and a second valve in the form of a duckbill valve.

[0037] In the first set of embodiments, the first valve is configured to remove fluid from the chamber by a first action of the volume displacement device, and the second valve is configured to remove fluid removed from the chamber by the first action from the metering supply assembly by a second action of the volume displacement device.

[0038] In this first set of embodiments, the box may include a vent for allowing air to enter the chamber while fluid is removed from the chamber via a first one-way valve during the first operation of the volume displacement device.

[0039] As an alternative to such a vent, a flexible or foldable housing can define the chamber, which can be bent or folded in response to the first action of the volume displacement device to reduce the volume of the chamber.

[0040] For example, the housing can be configured to fold more with each successive first action of the volume displacement device, in other words, to fold continuously.

[0041] In the second set of embodiments, the first valve is configured to move fluid into the chamber by operation of the volume displacement device, and the second valve is configured to allow fluid displaced by the fluid moving into the chamber to leave the box.

[0042] In this second embodiment, the first valve and the second valve can be spatially separated from each other across the chamber. This arrangement of the first and second valves facilitates the metered supply of the surface treatment agent to, for example, a cleaning liquid reservoir located below the second valve.

[0043] In some embodiments, the cartridge includes an upper end and a lower end opposite the upper end, with an interface portion disposed at or near the upper end, wherein a second valve is arranged to allow fluid to exit the metering supply assembly in a direction away from the upper end. This arrangement of the second valve facilitates the metering supply of the surface treatment agent, particularly in embodiments where the cartridge is included in or can be attached to a cover for sealing a cleaning liquid reservoir.

[0044] In some embodiments, the chamber has an annular shape with a fluid passage extending around the exterior of the chamber. In such an embodiment, the fluid passage extends between the upper and lower ends of the chamber, and a second valve is disposed at or near the upper end.

[0045] This fluid channel facilitates the direct delivery of the surface treatment agent to the outside of the chamber. Therefore, the surface treatment agent can be delivered more efficiently from the metering assembly; in other words, the possibility of incomplete delivery of the surface treatment agent is reduced. A cartridge including an annular chamber and a fluid channel is particularly suitable for the first set of embodiments described above.

[0046] In some embodiments, the box includes a cover assembly for covering the first valve and / or the second valve prior to attachment, wherein the cover assembly is configured to allow the interface portion to be accessed so as to allow the interface portion to dock with the volume displacement device.

[0047] The cover assembly may include a seal, such as a removable and / or puncture-resistant seal, for sealingly covering the first and / or second valves prior to the attachment box.

[0048] The cover assembly further prevents leakage of the surface treatment agent before the cartridge is attached to the wet cleaning equipment, supplementing the protection provided by the first and second valves. In other cases, such leakage may occur, for example, due to pressure and / or temperature variations during the cartridge's transport. The cover assembly also helps provide tamper protection and / or protection of the first and / or second valves during the cartridge's storage and transport.

[0049] As an alternative to or supplement to the cover assembly covering the first valve and / or the second valve, the cover assembly may cover the vent of the box before the attachment box, but is able to expose the vent to allow air to enter the chamber when fluid is drawn out of the chamber, for example, by the first action of the volume displacement device.

[0050] In such embodiments, the covering assembly may include a seal for sealingly covering the vent, such as a removable and / or puncture-resistant seal.

[0051] In some embodiments, the covering assembly includes an integral covering member that simultaneously covers the vent hole and the first valve and / or the second valve.

[0052] This facilitates the attachment of the box because the monolithic cover can be manipulated (e.g., peeled and / or pierced) to access the interface portion and expose the vents.

[0053] More generally, the interface portion of the box may include a connection portion for attaching the box to a wet cleaning device.

[0054] The interface may also include a sealing area that provides a sealing zone for the box at the interface between the attached box and the volume displacement device to prevent leakage of the surface treatment agent.

[0055] The connecting portion may include, for example, a bayonet connection, a snap-fit ​​connection, or a threaded connection for attaching the box to a complementary connecting portion included in the wet cleaning equipment.

[0056] In embodiments where the box includes a cover assembly, the cover assembly (e.g., a cover assembly including an integral cover member that simultaneously covers the vent and the first and / or second valve, the integral cover member being, for example, a cap) may include another complementary connection portion for engaging with the connection portion when the box is not attached to the wet cleaning equipment.

[0057] In such an embodiment, the complementary connection portion of the wet cleaning device may correspond to another complementary connection portion of the covering assembly (e.g., a cover).

[0058] This makes it easy to attach the box to wet cleaning equipment because the same connection principle can be used to attach / remove the cover assembly (such as a cover) to cover / expose the interface portion as to attach / remove the box to / from the wet cleaning equipment.

[0059] In at least some embodiments, the box is disposable.

[0060] These disposable cartridges can be discarded by the user of the wet cleaning component, for example, once the surface treatment agent in the chamber has been fully depleted and / or the used disposable cartridge has been removed from the wet cleaning device.

[0061] Alternatively or additionally, the surface treatment agent is included in the box.

[0062] In such an embodiment, the surface treatment agent contained in the box (e.g., contained in the chamber of a box received by the user) may be a liquid surface treatment agent.

[0063] By supplying this liquid surface treatment agent to a container (such as a disposable container), users can begin using the wet cleaning kit with minimal preparation steps.

[0064] In an alternative embodiment, the surface treatment agent contained in the box (e.g., contained in a chamber of a box received by the user) may be a solid surface treatment agent component.

[0065] In this alternative embodiment, the user may use water, for example, to dilute and / or dissolve the solid surface treatment agent components before attaching the box (e.g., a disposable box) to the wet cleaning equipment.

[0066] While supplying this solid surface treatment agent component to the box may add preparation steps (in the form of diluting and / or dissolving the solid surface treatment agent component), the box can be made lighter because the surface treatment agent is supplied undiluted / undissolved. The latter helps reduce transportation costs.

[0067] More generally, surface treatment agents can include any suitable type of reagent used to treat (e.g., clean) surfaces. Detergents included in surface treatment agents are mentioned in particular.

[0068] It should be noted that, depending on the context, the term “fluid” as used herein may refer to a gas (e.g., air) and / or a liquid (e.g., a liquid surface treatment agent).

[0069] According to another aspect, a wet cleaning assembly is provided, comprising: a wet cleaning device including a volume displacement device; a cartridge including a chamber for containing a surface treatment agent and an interface portion for engaging with the volume displacement device during attachment of the cartridge to the wet cleaning device to define a metering assembly; a first valve configured to allow fluid to be moved out of or into the chamber by operation of the volume displacement device; and a second valve configured to allow fluid to exit the metering assembly, wherein the first valve and / or the second valve are included in the cartridge and configured to restrict the passage of the surface treatment agent therefrom prior to attachment of the cartridge.

[0070] The box included in the wet cleaning assembly can be the box described above with respect to the first aspect.

[0071] In some embodiments, the wet cleaning assembly further includes a cleaning liquid reservoir for receiving surface treatment agent that exits the metering supply assembly via a second valve.

[0072] In some embodiments, the volume displacement device includes a resiliently compressible container whose resilient compression at least partially defines the operation of the volume displacement device.

[0073] In some embodiments, the resilient compressible container is at least partially defined by a light-transmitting wall to allow observation of the fluid inside the resilient compressible container. Therefore, the user can have a visual indication of whether the surface treatment agent is being metered.

[0074] In some embodiments, the surface treatment agent is colored.

[0075] Regarding the second set of embodiments described above, the first and second valves can be arranged such that compression of the resilient compressible container moves fluid into the chamber via the first valve, and the fluid displaced by the fluid moving into the chamber exits the container via the second valve.

[0076] Regarding the first set of embodiments described above, the first and second valves can be arranged such that: during the period when the resilient compressible container returns to its resting shape after being compressed, fluid is removed from the chamber via the first valve, and during subsequent compression of the resilient compressible container, fluid extracted from the chamber is removed from the metering assembly via the second valve.

[0077] In some embodiments, the volume displacement device includes an electric volume displacement device.

[0078] In such an embodiment, the electric volume displacement device can be arranged to enable automatic, metered supply of surface treatment agent from the box.

[0079] In some embodiments, the volume displacement device may be covered by a housing portion of the wet cleaning equipment. This housing portion may prevent access to the volume displacement device, such as a resilient compressible container.

[0080] This helps prevent unintentional operation of the volume replacement device.

[0081] In some embodiments, the metered supply of surface treatment agent from the cartridge is triggered by installing a cleaning liquid reservoir (e.g., together with a metering supply assembly) in a wet cleaning assembly.

[0082] Therefore, the quantitative supply of surface treatment agents can be considered to be implemented in a semi-automatic manner.

[0083] In such an embodiment, the installation of the cleaning liquid storage tank may include the engagement feature of the wet cleaning component engaging with the volume displacement device during installation to enable the metered supply of the surface treatment agent.

[0084] For example, when a cleaning liquid reservoir (e.g., together with a metering supply assembly) is positioned within a wet cleaning assembly, the installation of the cleaning liquid reservoir can cause the engagement features of the wet cleaning assembly to compress the resilient compressible container.

[0085] Wet cleaning components may include one or more of the following: wet mop unit, wet vacuum cleaner, window cleaner, and sweeper.

[0086] Alternatively or additionally, wet cleaning components include robotic wet cleaning devices configured to move autonomously on the surface to be cleaned.

[0087] In some embodiments, the wet cleaning equipment includes a base station that includes a cleaning liquid storage tank, and the wet cleaning component includes a wet floor cleaning device, such as a robotic wet cleaning device, which is supplied with cleaning liquid by the cleaning liquid storage tank in the base station.

[0088] In such an embodiment, the surface treatment agent supplied metered from a cartridge attached to the wet cleaning device can enter a cleaning liquid reservoir included in the base station of the wet cleaning device. Alternatively, the cleaning liquid can be dispensed onto the surface to be cleaned by a wet cleaning apparatus, which is supplied with the cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid reservoir in the base station.

[0089] In some embodiments, the robotic wet cleaning device may be configured to autonomously return (e.g., repeatedly return autonomously) to a base station to obtain more cleaning liquid, which contains a surface treatment agent for application to the surface to be cleaned.

[0090] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the embodiments described below. Attached Figure Description

[0091] To better understand the invention and to more clearly illustrate how to implement it, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings by way of example only, wherein:

[0092] Figure 1 A wet cleaning component according to the first example is schematically depicted;

[0093] Figure 2 A wet cleaning component according to the second example is schematically depicted;

[0094] Figure 3A A wet cleaning assembly in a partially disassembled state, according to the third example, is schematically depicted.

[0095] Figure 3B The assembly process is shown. Figure 3A The wet cleaning components shown;

[0096] Figure 4A A wet cleaning assembly in a partially disassembled state, according to the fourth example, is schematically depicted.

[0097] Figure 4B The assembly process is shown. Figure 4A The wet cleaning components shown;

[0098] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the quantitative supply component based on the first example is provided;

[0099] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the quantitative supply component according to the second example is provided;

[0100] Figure 7 A one-way valve for a box according to an example is schematically depicted;

[0101] Figure 8 A volume displacement device according to an example is schematically depicted;

[0102] Figure 9A A cross-sectional view of the quantitative supply component according to the third example is provided;

[0103] Figure 9B This shows what happens when the box is removed from the volume replacement device. Figure 9A The box and volume displacement device of the quantitative supply component shown;

[0104] Figure 10A A view is provided of the box and the volume replacement device when they are disassembled from each other;

[0105] Figure 10B It shows when they are attached to each other. Figure 10A The box and volume displacement device shown;

[0106] Figures 11A to 11C Provides a view of the box, including the overlay component, based on the example;

[0107] Figure 12 A portion of a box including an overlay component is shown according to another example;

[0108] Figure 13A A cross-sectional view of the box with a one-way valve is provided;

[0109] Figure 13B Provided Figure 13A Exploded perspective view of the box shown;

[0110] Figure 14 Provided including Figure 13A and Figure 13B A cross-sectional view of the volume displacement device and the metering assembly of the cartridge shown; and

[0111] Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of another box with a one-way valve is provided. Detailed Implementation

[0112] The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0113] It should be understood that while exemplary embodiments of the devices, systems, and methods have been shown, the detailed descriptions and specific examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the devices, systems, and methods of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the following description, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are merely schematic and not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to denote the same or similar parts.

[0114] A cartridge is provided for attachment to a wet cleaning apparatus (particularly a wet floor cleaning apparatus). The wet cleaning apparatus has a volume displacement device for metering a surface treatment agent from the cartridge when the cartridge is attached to the wet cleaning apparatus. The cartridge includes a chamber for containing the surface treatment agent. The cartridge also has an interface portion for engaging with the volume displacement device during attachment of the cartridge to define a metering assembly. A first valve is configured to allow fluid to be moved out of or into the chamber by operation of the volume displacement device. A second valve is configured to allow fluid to leave the metering assembly, for example, during the displacement of fluid in the cartridge by fluid moved into the chamber via the volume displacement device, or during a fluid discharge action of the volume displacement device after the initial action of the volume displacement device removing fluid from the chamber via the first valve. Each of the first and second valves is capable of restricting the passage of surface treatment agent therefrom before attachment of the cartridge. A cleaning assembly including a cartridge and a wet cleaning apparatus is also provided.

[0115] Including the first and second valves can facilitate the metered supply of the surface treatment agent, such as by metering, while also contributing to the safe and reliable storage and / or transport of the cartridge containing the surface treatment agent within the chamber. Such features make the cartridge particularly advantageous in containing and metering relatively high concentrations of surface treatment agent. This is because the first and second valves help reduce the risks associated with the storage, transport, and unintentional overuse of such high-concentration surface treatment agent during operation of wet cleaning equipment.

[0116] It should be noted that the term “quantitative supply” as used herein can refer to the quantitative supply of a consistent or precise amount (e.g., volume) of surface treatment agent in each operation of the volumetric displacement device.

[0117] The first and second valves can be components more prone to wear and deterioration during the operational life of the wet cleaning assembly, which includes the wet cleaning equipment and the cartridge. For example, the first and second valves may have an expected lifespan of approximately six months. Therefore, by including the first and second valves in a cartridge (e.g., a disposable cartridge), the first and second valves can be replaced directly while replenishing the surface treatment agent. Thus, replenishing the surface treatment agent can be advantageously combined with preventative maintenance of the wet cleaning assembly.

[0118] Figure 1 A housing 100 is schematically shown attached to a wet cleaning device (e.g., a wet floor cleaning device). The wet cleaning device includes a volume displacement device 102. A wet cleaning assembly 104 (e.g., a wet floor cleaning assembly 104) may include the housing 100 and the wet cleaning device (e.g., the wet floor cleaning device).

[0119] In some embodiments, the wet cleaning assembly 104 includes a wet floor cleaning device, which may take the form of, for example, a wet mop device, a wet vacuum cleaner, a window cleaner, and / or a sweeper.

[0120] Alternatively or additionally, the wet cleaning assembly 104 includes a robotic wet cleaning device configured to move autonomously on the surface to be cleaned.

[0121] Box 100 has a chamber 106 for containing a surface treatment agent. The surface treatment agent (not visible in the figure) is suitable for treating surfaces to be cleaned, such as floors.

[0122] The box 100 can be attached (e.g., detachably connected) to a wet cleaning device so that surface treatment agent can be replenished once the surface treatment agent in the chamber 106 has been sufficiently depleted, for example, once the chamber 106 has been emptied of surface treatment agent.

[0123] In at least some embodiments, the box 100 is a disposable box 100.

[0124] For example, once the surface treatment agent in chamber 106 has been fully depleted and / or the used disposable cartridge 100 has been removed from the wet cleaning device, such disposable cartridge 100 can be discarded by the user of wet cleaning component 104.

[0125] As a replacement or supplement to the disposable box 100, the box 100 may contain a surface treatment agent. In other words, the surface treatment agent may be provided to the user together with the box 100 (e.g., the disposable box 100).

[0126] In such an embodiment, the surface treatment agent contained in the cartridge 100, such as the surface treatment agent contained in the chamber 106 of the cartridge 100 received by the user, may be a liquid surface treatment agent.

[0127] By supplying this liquid surface treatment agent to the cartridge 100 (e.g., disposable cartridge 100), users can begin using the wet cleaning assembly 104, which includes the cartridge 100, with very few preparation steps.

[0128] In an alternative embodiment, the surface treatment agent contained in the cartridge 100 (e.g., contained in chamber 106 of the cartridge 100 received by the user) may be a solid surface treatment agent component.

[0129] In such an alternative embodiment, before attaching the cartridge 100 (e.g., disposable cartridge 100) to the wet cleaning equipment, the user may use, for example, water to dilute and / or dissolve the solid surface treatment agent components.

[0130] While supplying this solid surface treatment agent component to box 100 (e.g., disposable box 100) may add preparation steps (in the form of diluting and / or dissolving the solid surface treatment agent component), box 100 can be manufactured lighter because the surface treatment agent is not supplied in a pre-diluted / dissolved form. The latter can help reduce transportation costs.

[0131] More generally, surface treatment agents can include any suitable type of reagent used to treat (e.g., clean) surfaces. Detergents included in surface treatment agents are mentioned in particular.

[0132] The shell of box 100 can define, in other words, define chamber 106.

[0133] This housing can be formed of any suitable material capable of retaining the surface treatment agent within the chamber 106. In at least some embodiments, the housing is formed of a plastic material, such as a thermoplastic.

[0134] Plastic materials may include, for example, polyolefins (such as polyethylene or polypropylene) or polyesters (such as polyethylene terephthalate). It should be noted that such polyolefin and polyester materials may be thermoplastic in nature.

[0135] In embodiments where the box 100 is a disposable box 100, the shell may be formed of a recyclable or reusable material, such as a recyclable or reusable plastic material, such as a thermoplastic material.

[0136] Any suitable recyclable or reusable plastic material can be considered, such as polyolefins (e.g., polyethylene or polypropylene) or polyesters (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate).

[0137] In some embodiments, the housing is at least partially formed of a light-transmitting material so that the surface treatment agent in the chamber 106 can be observed through the housing.

[0138] The surface treatment agent can also be colored to facilitate its observation, for example, allowing a user to assess how much surface treatment agent remains inside chamber 106. For instance, the color of the surface treatment agent can be selected to contrast with the translucent material, thereby facilitating its observation.

[0139] The box 100 may include information about a surface treatment agent (e.g., detergent). Such information may be applied to the outer surface of the housing, for example, via a label, pad printing, laser engraving, etc.

[0140] In embodiments where the box 100 contains (in other words, is supplied with) a surface treatment agent, the surface treatment agent may be dispensed into the chamber 106, for example, by filling the chamber 106 from the bottom, and then the box 100 is closed. Preferably, a seal is formed where the box 100 is closed.

[0141] Box 100 can be closed in any suitable manner (e.g., sealed), such as via welding, wherein a first part of box 100, including a chamber 106 filled with a surface treatment agent, is welded to a second part of box 100 to close chamber 106.

[0142] In embodiments where the box 100 is closed via a welded portion between the first and second portions of the box 100, any suitable welding technique may be considered. Ultrasonic welding is particularly noteworthy, especially when the housing defining the chamber 106 is formed of thermoplastic.

[0143] The localized heat generated in connection with ultrasonically welding the first and second parts of the box 100 together can help minimize or avoid degradation of the surface treatment agent during the welding process. Ultrasonic welding can also provide a relatively strong seal between the first and second parts of the box 100.

[0144] The volume of chamber 106 can range from 2.5 mL to 1000 mL, preferably from 30 mL to 50 mL.

[0145] The volume can be selected based on the concentration of the surface treatment agent to provide a sufficiently long operating life for the box 100 and a suitable compact design. The latter facilitates the storage and transportation of the box 100 before it is received by the user.

[0146] More generally, the container 100 includes an interface portion 107 for mating with the volume displacement device 102 of a wet cleaning apparatus to define a metering supply component 108 during attachment of the container 100 to the wet cleaning apparatus. Once the interface portion 107 is mated with the volume displacement device 102, the surface treatment agent can be metered via the metering supply component 108, such as... Figure 1 As indicated by the middle arrow 109.

[0147] In at least some embodiments, the interface portion 107 is a single interface portion 107 that defines a single interface between the box 100 and the wet cleaning device.

[0148] This facilitates (and in particular simplifies) the attachment of the box 100 to wet cleaning equipment.

[0149] In some embodiments, for example Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the box 100 may be attached to the cleaning liquid storage tank 110 of the wet cleaning equipment.

[0150] In such an embodiment, the surface treatment agent can be metered into the cleaning liquid tank 110 via the metering supply component 108, so that the surface treatment agent can be diluted with the cleaning liquid 111 (e.g., cleaning liquid 111 containing water) contained in the cleaning liquid tank 110.

[0151] For example, the cleaning liquid reservoir 110 can be filled with water from any tap in the house, wherein the container 100 provides convenience associated with the user, namely, that the user does not need to carry the raw material bottle of the surface treatment agent each time they access such a tap, nor does the user need to locate such a raw material bottle each time the cleaning liquid reservoir 110 is (re)filled, nor the metering cup for transferring a specific amount from the raw material bottle to the cleaning liquid reservoir 110.

[0152] In embodiments where the wet cleaning component 104 includes a wet floor cleaning device, the cleaning fluid 111 may be a floor cleaning fluid 111, such as an aqueous floor cleaning fluid 111.

[0153] In such embodiments, a wet floor cleaning device or a wet cleaning apparatus included in a wet floor cleaning device can be configured to deliver floor cleaning liquid 111 to the surface to be cleaned using the wet floor cleaning device.

[0154] The volume of the cleaning fluid storage tank 110 can be from 100 mL to 2500 mL, for example, from 100 mL to 1000 mL.

[0155] The volume of the cleaning fluid reservoir 110 facilitates relatively extended wet cleaning using wet cleaning equipment (such as wet floor cleaning equipment) that includes the cleaning fluid reservoir 110.

[0156] The volume of the cleaning fluid reservoir 110 may depend at least in part on whether the cleaning fluid reservoir 110 itself moves on the surface to be cleaned, for example, together with a wet cleaning device.

[0157] In some embodiments, the wet cleaning equipment includes a base station that includes a cleaning liquid storage tank 110, and the wet cleaning assembly 104 includes a wet floor cleaning device, such as a robotic wet cleaning device, which is supplied with cleaning liquid by the cleaning liquid storage tank 110 in the base station.

[0158] In such an embodiment, the surface treatment agent can be metered from a cartridge 100 attached to a wet cleaning device to a cleaning liquid reservoir 110 included in the base station of the wet cleaning device. However, the cleaning liquid can be dispensed onto the surface to be cleaned by a wet cleaning device supplied with cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid reservoir 110 in the base station.

[0159] In some embodiments, the robotic wet cleaning device may be configured to autonomously return (e.g., repeatedly return autonomously) to a base station to obtain more cleaning liquid, which contains a surface treatment agent for application to the surface to be cleaned.

[0160] In embodiments where the base station (e.g., a base station to which a robotic wet cleaning device returns) includes a cleaning liquid reservoir 110, the volume of the cleaning liquid reservoir 110 can be up to 2500 mL.

[0161] In at least some embodiments, the volume displacement device 102 is configured to allow control over the amount of surface treatment agent quantitatively supplied from the cartridge 100.

[0162] This can enhance ease of use, for example, compared to manually metering the surface treatment agent from a raw material bottle.

[0163] In such an embodiment, the volume displacement device 102 can be arranged such that operation of the volume displacement device 102 causes a specific amount of surface treatment agent to be metered from the cartridge 100 into, for example, a cleaning liquid storage tank 110.

[0164] The ability to dispense a specific (e.g., precise) amount of surface treatment agent from box 100 allows for the use of relatively high concentrations of surface treatment agent, as the risks associated with using excessive amounts of such high concentrations of surface treatment agent during operation of wet cleaning equipment can be minimized accordingly.

[0165] The ability to use relatively high concentrations of surface treatment agents also helps to minimize the size of the box 100, while providing benefits for storage and transportation, and reducing the space occupied by the box 100 in the wet cleaning assembly 104.

[0166] In some embodiments, the volume displacement device 102 is arranged to quantitatively supply a volume ranging from 0.5 mL to 10 mL from the cartridge 100 in each operation of the volume displacement device 102.

[0167] This range can provide a sufficient amount of surface treatment agent, and note that the design of the box 100 according to the present invention enables a relatively high concentration of surface treatment agent.

[0168] In some embodiments, the volume replacement device 102 is arranged to quantitatively supply a volume ranging from 0.5 mL to 10 mL from the cartridge 100 in each operation of the volume replacement device 102, and the cartridge 100 contains a dose of that volume for 5 to 100 applications.

[0169] Therefore, the box 100 and the volume replacement device 102 can enable multiple refills of the cleaning liquid storage tank 110, for example, the cleaning liquid storage tank 110 itself has a volume of 100 mL to 1000 mL.

[0170] In some embodiments, the cartridge 100 contains a sufficient amount of surface treatment agent (e.g., detergent) for 30 to 50 doses, in other words, for 30 to 50 operations of the volume displacement device 102.

[0171] In such an embodiment, a relatively high concentration of surface treatment agent (e.g., detergent) can be used, where about 1 mL of detergent is sufficient for 300 mL to 400 mL of water. Therefore, chamber 106 can have a volume of 30 mL to 50 mL.

[0172] In some embodiments, for example Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the box 100 is included (e.g., defined) in a cover or lid 112 for sealing the cleaning liquid reservoir 110.

[0173] This provides a convenient way to integrate the cartridge 100 into the wet cleaning assembly 104. By arranging the cover 112 above the cleaning liquid reservoir 110, when the cleaning liquid reservoir 110 is closed by the cover 112 and the wet cleaning assembly 104 is oriented for use, the surface treatment agent from the cartridge 100 included in the cover 112 can reach the liquid 111 (e.g., water) in the cleaning liquid reservoir 110 with the help of gravity.

[0174] In alternative embodiments, for example Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the box 100 can be attached to such a cover 112, such as a lid, for sealing the cleaning liquid reservoir 110.

[0175] The cleaning liquid storage tank 110 can be filled with liquid 111 (e.g., water) up to the box 100, or the box 100 can be in direct contact with the liquid 111.

[0176] It should be noted that when the box 100 is attached to the wet cleaning equipment, for example by placing it in the cleaning liquid storage tank 110, the box 100 may have a single fixed position.

[0177] More generally, the interface portion 107 of the box 100 may include a connection portion 113 for connecting the box 100 to a wet cleaning device.

[0178] The connecting portion 113 can have any suitable design. In some embodiments, the connecting portion 113 includes a bayonet, snap-fit, or threaded connection portion.

[0179] In other words, the box 100 may include a bayonet connection portion 113, a snap-fit ​​connection portion 113, or a threaded connection portion 113 for attaching the box 100 to a complementary connection portion included in a wet cleaning device.

[0180] In some embodiments, the box 100 includes a coupling portion 113 configured to provide tactile feedback when attached to a complementary coupling portion included in a wet cleaning device.

[0181] Therefore, a tactile response can be provided to the user, which notifies him / her that box 100 is attached to the wet cleaning device.

[0182] The aforementioned bayonet connection portion and snap-fit ​​connection portion 113 may be examples of connection portions 113 configured to provide tactile feedback when attached to complementary connection portions included in a wet cleaning device.

[0183] Alternatively or additionally, the connection portion 113 may be arranged to attach unidirectionally to a complementary connection portion of the wet cleaning equipment.

[0184] This can help minimize user confusion when attaching the box 100 to a wet cleaning device.

[0185] In embodiments where the box 100 can be attached to the cover 112 to seal the cleaning liquid storage tank 110, for example... Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting portion 113 can extend from the housing 100 to the cover 112. This connecting portion 113 may include the aforementioned bayonet, snap-fit ​​connection, or thread.

[0186] In such an embodiment, the box 100 can be suspended on the cover 112 and extend inside the cleaning liquid storage tank 110.

[0187] In some embodiments, for example Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the embodiment shown, the metering supply assembly 108, including the box 100 and the volume replacement device 102, can be attached to the cover 112 and / or can be detached from the cover 112.

[0188] In such an embodiment, the interface portion 107 of the cartridge 100 can interface with the volume displacement device 102 to provide a metering assembly 108, and the metering assembly 108 can be attached to the cover portion 112 in a separate (e.g., subsequent) step. The former in Figure 3A As shown, the resulting wet cleaning component 104 is in Figure 3B As shown in the image.

[0189] In alternative embodiments, for example Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the illustrated embodiment, the volume displacement device 102 may be included in the cover 112, and the housing 100 may dock with the volume displacement device 102 to provide a metering supply assembly 108 when the cover 112 and the volume displacement device 102 are attached to each other, such as Figure 4AAs shown. Then, the cover 112 can be placed on the cleaning liquid storage tank 110, thereby sealing the cleaning liquid storage tank 110. The metering supply assembly 108 is attached to the cover 112, as shown. Figure 4B As shown.

[0190] exist Figure 4A and Figure 4B It is evident that, although schematic, the complementary connection portion 114 can be connected to the connection portion 113 of the box 100 to secure the interface between the interface portion 107 and the volume displacement device 102.

[0191] More generally, and referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The cartridge 100 includes a first valve 116 configured to allow fluid to be moved out of or into the chamber 106 by operation of the volume displacement device 102. Furthermore, the first valve 116 can restrict the passage of surface treatment agent before the cartridge 100 is attached. Therefore, when the cartridge 100 is not attached to a wet cleaning device, such as during storage or transport, the first valve 116 can help retain the surface treatment agent within the chamber 106.

[0192] In at least some embodiments, the first valve 116 includes (e.g., is) a first check valve. Non-limiting examples of such a first check valve include umbrella valves (such as...) Figure 5 and Figure 6 (as shown), duckbill valve or ball check valve.

[0193] When the box 100 is not attached to the wet cleaning equipment, the one-way valve design for the first valve 116 can help retain the surface treatment agent within the chamber 106, while also facilitating the metered (e.g., metered) supply of the surface treatment agent from the chamber 106 via the operation of the volume displacement device 102.

[0194] In some embodiments, for example Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the embodiments shown, the first valve 116 (e.g., a first valve including a first check valve) is arranged to interface with port 118 of the volume displacement device 102 when the housing 100 is attached to the wet cleaning equipment.

[0195] For example Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the second valve 120 allows fluid to exit the metering supply assembly 108 (defined by the interface portion 107 of the cartridge 100 that mates with the volume displacement device 102).

[0196] The interface portion 107 may be arranged relative to the first valve 116 and / or the second valve 120 such that when the metering supply assembly 108 is defined by the interface portion 107 that interfaces with the volume displacement device 102, one or both of the first and second valves 116, 120 cooperate with the volume displacement device 102, for example through one or both of the first and second check valves 116, 120 that interfaces with the port 118 of the volume displacement device 102.

[0197] In some embodiments, the second valve 120 allows fluid to exit the metering supply assembly 108 and enter the cleaning liquid reservoir 110. The second valve 120 also restricts the passage of surface treatment agent via the valve before attachment to the cartridge 100. Therefore, when the cartridge 100 is not attached to the wet cleaning equipment, such as during storage or transport of the cartridge 100, the second valve 120 can help retain the surface treatment agent within the chamber 106.

[0198] In at least some embodiments, the second valve 120 includes (e.g., is) a second check valve. This check valve design for the second valve 120 facilitates the metered (e.g., metered) supply of the surface treatment agent from the chamber through the operation of the volume displacement device, while also helping to retain the surface treatment agent within the chamber 106 when the cartridge 100 is not attached to a wet cleaning device. Non-limiting examples of the second check valve include umbrella valves (such as...) Figure 5 As shown), duckbill valve (such as) Figure 6 (as shown) or a ball check valve.

[0199] In some embodiments, and specifically refer to Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, the first valve 116 is configured to allow fluid to move into the chamber 106 via the operation of the volume displacement device 102, and the second valve 120 allows the fluid displaced by the fluid moving into the chamber 106 to exit the cartridge 100 and, in doing so, exit the metering supply assembly 108.

[0200] Operation of the volume displacement device 102 can force fluid (e.g., air) into chamber 106 via a first valve 116 (e.g., via a first valve 116 which is a first check valve). The fluid (e.g., air) forced into chamber 106 can displace fluid (e.g., surface treatment agent) caused to leave cartridge 100 via a second valve 120 (e.g., a second valve 120 which is a second check valve).

[0201] In such an embodiment, the first valve 116 and the second valve 120 can be spatially separated from each other across chamber 106, such as Figure 5 As shown. This arrangement of the first valve 116 and the second valve 116 facilitates the metering of the surface treatment agent into, for example, a cleaning liquid reservoir 110 located below the second valve 120.

[0202] For example, the first check valve 116 and the second check valve 120 can be arranged opposite each other across chamber 106, such as Figure 5 As shown, or at least separately arranged at different ends of box 100 or adjacent to different ends of box 100.

[0203] In other embodiments, and specifically referred to Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the first valve 116 is configured to remove fluid from chamber 106 by a first action of the volume displacement device 102. This first movement of the fluid (e.g., a surface treatment agent) in Figure 6 The middle part is represented by arrow 121A.

[0204] The second valve 120, through a first action, removes fluid (e.g., a surface treatment agent) from chamber 106, thereby exiting the metering supply assembly 108 through a second action of the volume displacement device 102. The movement of fluid (e.g., surface treatment agent) caused by the second action... Figure 6 The middle part is represented by arrow 121B.

[0205] In some embodiments, for example Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 100 includes a combination valve 122 that integrates the first valve 116 and the second valve 120 together. This combination valve 122 can help simplify the assembly of the housing 100.

[0206] In such an embodiment, the first valve 116 and the second valve 120 may each include (for example, a check valve).

[0207] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, the combination valve 122 includes a first valve 116 in the form of an umbrella valve and a second valve 120 in the form of a duckbill valve.

[0208] In alternative embodiments, such as Figure 5 and Figure 7 In the embodiments shown, the first valve 116 and the second valve 120 are not integrated into... Figure 6 In the type of combination valve shown. In Figure 7 In the non-limiting example shown, the first valve 116 and the second valve 120 are spatially separate components. In this particular case, the first valve 116, which includes the first check valve, is in the form of an umbrella valve, and the second valve 120, which includes the second check valve, is in the form of an umbrella valve.

[0209] In some embodiments, and referring again Figure 5 and Figure 6In the embodiments shown, the housing 100 includes an upper end 124 and a lower end 126 opposite to the upper end 124. An interface portion 107 is disposed at or near the upper end 124, and a second valve 120 is arranged such that fluid exits from the metering supply assembly 108 in a direction away from the upper end. This arrangement of the second valve 120 facilitates the metering supply of the surface treatment agent, particularly in embodiments where the housing 100 includes, or can be attached to, a cover 112 for sealing the cleaning liquid reservoir 110.

[0210] The volume displacement device 102 can have any suitable design, as long as the operation of the volume displacement device 102 enables the surface treatment agent to be metered from the box 100.

[0211] In some embodiments, for example Figures 5 to 8 In the embodiment shown, the volume displacement device 102 includes an elastically compressible container 128, the elastic compression of which at least partially defines the operation of the volume displacement device 102.

[0212] The flexible compressible container 128 may be at least partially defined by a light-transmitting wall 130 to allow observation of the fluid within the flexible compressible container 128. Therefore, the user can have a visual indication of whether the surface treatment agent is being metered.

[0213] It should be reiterated that in some embodiments, the surface treatment agent is colored.

[0214] This colored surface treatment agent is more easily visible to users, especially through the translucent wall 130.

[0215] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, the first and second valves 116, 120 are arranged such that compression of the resilient compressible container 128 causes fluid (e.g., air) to be moved into the chamber 106 via the first valve 116, and fluid (e.g., surface treatment agent) displaced by the fluid moved into the chamber 106 leaves the cartridge 100 and thus leaves the metering supply assembly 108 via the second valve 120.

[0216] In such an embodiment, the resilient compressible container 128 may have an air inlet 131 for allowing air from outside the metering supply assembly 108 to enter the compressible container 128 so that the compressible container 128 can return to its static shape.

[0217] In some embodiments, for example Figure 6 and Figure 7In the embodiments shown, the first and second valves 116, 120 are arranged such that during the period when the resilient compressible container 128 returns to its resting shape after compression, fluid is removed from chamber 106 via the first valve 116, for example, into the resilient compressible container 128, referring to arrow 121A. During subsequent compression of the resilient compressible container 128, fluid drawn from chamber 106 is discharged from the metering assembly 108 via the second valve 120 in the direction indicated by arrow 121B.

[0218] The return of the elastic compressible container 128 to its restorative shape corresponds to the first action of the volume displacement device 102 described above, and the subsequent compression of the elastic compressible container 128 corresponds to the second action of the volume displacement device 102 described above.

[0219] It should be noted that the box 100 may define a vent 132 to allow air to enter the chamber 106 during the first operation of the volume displacement device 102, such as when the resilient compressible container 128 returns to its stationary shape, while fluid (e.g., a surface treatment agent) is removed from the chamber 106 via the first valve 116.

[0220] The elastic compressibility of the resilient compressible container 128 can be achieved in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, for example... Figures 5 to 7 In the embodiments shown, elastic compressibility is provided by the walls 130 of the elastic compressible container 128, which are at least partially made of an elastic material.

[0221] In such an embodiment, the wall can be considered as defining a flexible membrane or bellows, wherein the membrane / bellows can be deformed by a force applied to the membrane / bellows by the user to reduce the volume inside the elastic compressible container 128, but the elasticity of the membrane / bellows allows the elastic compressible container 128 to return to its original / static shape.

[0222] In some embodiments, a spring may be added inside the bellows to help the bellows return to its original / static shape.

[0223] In other embodiments, for example Figure 8 In the embodiment shown, the volume displacement device 102 includes an elastically compressible container 128, the elastic compressibility of which is provided via a piston 133 connected to a spring 134.

[0224] The volume of the flexible compressible container 128 (e.g., a bellows) is sufficient to meter approximately 1 mL of surface treatment agent in a single action. This may mean that when activated after the first action, the volume displacement of the flexible compressible container 128 can be approximately 1 mL.

[0225] Although Figures 5 to 7In the illustrated embodiment, the first valve 116 (e.g., a first check valve) is arranged to engage with port 118 of the volume displacement device 102 when the housing 100 is attached to the wet cleaning equipment, but this is not limiting. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), a piston element (e.g., a piston element included in the housing 100) can be moved by operation of the volume displacement device 102. In such an embodiment, the first valve 116 may not engage with the port of the volume displacement device 102 because operation of the volume displacement device 102 moves the piston element rather than the fluid.

[0226] More generally, the volume displacement device 102 can be operated manually, such as... Figures 5 to 8 As shown. Alternatively or additionally, the volume displacement device 102 may include an electrically operated volume displacement device 102. In such an embodiment, the electrically operated volume displacement device may be arranged to enable automatic metering of the surface treatment agent from the cartridge 100.

[0227] In embodiments where the wet cleaning assembly 104 includes a robotic wet cleaning device configured to move autonomously on the surface to be cleaned, this automatic metering of the surface treatment agent can be particularly advantageous.

[0228] Automatic metering can be achieved in any suitable manner, for example by using an electromagnetic coil of a mechanism arranged to activate the volume displacement device 102.

[0229] In some embodiments, for example Figure 6 , Figure 9A and Figure 9B In the embodiment shown, chamber 106 has an annular shape extending around the exterior of chamber 106 via a fluid passage 135. In such an embodiment, the fluid passage 135 extends between an upper end 124 and a lower end 126 of housing 100, wherein a second valve 120 is arranged at or near the upper end 124.

[0230] This fluid channel 135 facilitates the direct delivery of the surface treatment agent to the outside of the chamber 106. Therefore, the surface treatment agent can be delivered more efficiently from the metering supply assembly 108; in other words, the possibility of incomplete delivery is reduced. Furthermore, the fluid channel 135 helps minimize the risk of contamination (e.g., stickiness) of the outer surface of the housing by the surface treatment agent.

[0231] It should be noted that the box 100 having an annular chamber 106 and a fluid passage 135 is particularly suitable for embodiments in which the second valve 120, through a first action of the volume displacement device 102, allows fluid (e.g., a surface treatment agent) removed from the chamber 106 to exit the metering supply assembly 108 via a second action, such as the second action including the resilient compressible container 128 in... Figure 6 and Figure 9A Compression in the direction indicated by arrow 136.

[0232] The combination valve 122, together with the housing 100 having an annular chamber 106 and a fluid passage 135, can help provide a relatively short trajectory on which the surface treatment agent is delivered.

[0233] In some embodiments, for example Figure 9A and Figure 9B In the illustrated embodiment, the cartridge 100 includes a draw tube 137. Such a draw tube 137 can help minimize waste of surface treatment agents, especially in the context of embodiments where the first valve 116 is configured to remove fluid from the chamber 106 by a first action of the volume displacement device 102 (e.g., by restoring the elastic compressible container 128 to a resting shape).

[0234] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9A and Figure 9B In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom surface of the defining chamber 106 is inclined toward the inlet end of the extraction tube 137. Therefore, in use, the remaining surface treatment agent in the chamber 106 can flow down the slope in the direction of the inlet end of the extraction tube 137.

[0235] The inlet end of the suction tube 137 is preferably located at the lowest part of the inclined bottom surface.

[0236] It should be noted that the bottom surface 106 of the chamber 106 may be adjacent to the lower end 126 of the box 100.

[0237] The suction tube 137 can have an inner diameter of 0.8 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0238] Such an inner diameter can help make the metering operation more efficient, while minimizing the volume loss of the surface treatment agent by conveying the surface treatment agent through the draw tube 137.

[0239] In at least some embodiments, the interface between the box 100 and the volume displacement device 102 may include a sealed area for preventing leakage of the surface treatment agent.

[0240] The interface portion 107 may include a sealing region that provides a sealing area for the housing 100. This sealing region may be included in the interface portion 107 together with the connecting portion 113, for example, the connecting portion 113 may be separate from the sealing region.

[0241] Therefore, and as Figure 9A , Figure 9B , Figure 10A and Figure 10BAs shown, one or more sealing members 138A, 138B can be arranged as an interface between the interface portion 107 of the sealing box 100 and the volume displacement device 102.

[0242] One or more sealing components 138A, 138B may be included in the housing 100 and / or the wet cleaning device. In embodiments where sealing components 138A, 138B are included in the housing 100, the replenishment of the surface treatment agent may be combined with preventative maintenance of the wet cleaning assembly involving the replacement of sealing components 138A, 138B.

[0243] Reference Figure 10A and Figure 10B One or more sealing members 138A, 138B may include a first sealing member 138A (e.g., an O-ring) and a second sealing member 138B (e.g., an O-ring). However, any number of sealing members 138A, 138B may be considered, such as one, three, four, etc.

[0244] In an embodiment where the box 100 has a vent 132, for example Figure 6 and Figures 9A to 10B In the embodiments shown, the vent 132 may be arranged, for example, between the sealing area of ​​the connecting portion 113 and the interface portion 107.

[0245] In some embodiments, and now refer to Figures 11A to 11C and Figure 12 The box 100 includes a cover assembly 139 for covering the first valve 116 and / or the second valve 120 before attaching the box 100, wherein the cover assembly 139 is configured to allow the interface portion 107 to be approached so as to allow the interface portion 107 to dock with the volume displacement device 102.

[0246] The cover assembly 139 may include a seal, such as a removable and / or punctureable seal, for sealingly covering the first valve 116 and / or the second valve 120 up to the attachment box 100.

[0247] The cover assembly 139 further prevents leakage of the surface treatment agent before the cartridge 100 is attached to the wet cleaning equipment, supplementing the protection provided by the first valve 116 and the second valve 120. In other cases, such leakage may occur, for example, due to pressure and / or temperature changes during the transport of the cartridge 100. The cover assembly 139 also helps to provide tamper protection and / or protection of the first valve 116 and / or the second valve 120 during the storage and transport of the cartridge 100.

[0248] Cover component 139 may allow interface portion 107 to be accessed in any suitable manner, such as through a removable (e.g., peelable and / or pierceable) cover component 139.

[0249] As an alternative to or supplement to the cover assembly 139 covering the first valve 116 and / or the second valve 120, the cover assembly 139 may cover the vent 132 prior to the attachment box 100, but allow the vent 132 to be exposed to allow air to enter the chamber 106 when fluid is drawn out of the chamber 106, for example, by the first action of the volume displacement device 102. Figures 11A to 11C and Figure 12 An example of this is shown in the figure.

[0250] In such an embodiment, the cover assembly 139 may include a cap or seal for sealingly covering the vent 132, such as a removable and / or punctureable seal.

[0251] The cover assembly 139 can be held in place via the area between the connecting portion 113 and the sealing area (e.g., the adhesion area).

[0252] In some embodiments, for example Figures 11A to 11C and Figure 12 In the embodiments shown, the cover assembly 139 includes an integral cover member that simultaneously covers the vent 132 and the first valve 116 and / or the second valve 120.

[0253] This can facilitate the attachment of the box 100 because the monolithic cover member can be manipulated (e.g., peeled and / or pierced) to access the interface portion 107.

[0254] Cover assembly 139 (e.g., an integral cover member) can, for example, seal vent 132 and combination valve 122.

[0255] In an embodiment where the first valve 116 and the second valve 120 are integrated into the combination valve 122, as shown... Figures 11A to 11C and Figure 12 As shown, this monolithic cover member is particularly useful. In such embodiments, the monolithic cover member (e.g., a seal) can provide a seal in a single plane.

[0256] In embodiments where one or more of the first valve 116, the second valve 120, and the vent 132 are arranged in a recess defined in the outer surface of the housing 100, for example... Figure 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the cover assembly 139 (e.g., an integral cover member) may include one or more protrusions 140A, 140B that are configured to extend into each of, for example, a recess.

[0257] Such protruding parts 140A and 140B can help enhance the leak-proof protection provided by the cover assembly 139.

[0258] The present invention also provides a wet cleaning assembly 104, which includes a wet cleaning device, a housing 100, a first valve 116, and a second valve 120. The wet cleaning device includes a volume displacement device. The housing 100 includes a chamber 106 for containing a surface treatment agent and an interface portion 107 for docking with the volume displacement device 102 to define a metering supply assembly 108 during attachment of the housing 100 to the wet cleaning device. The first valve 116 is configured to allow fluid to be moved out of or into the chamber 106 by operation of the volume displacement device 102. The second valve 120 is configured to allow fluid to leave the metering supply assembly 108. The first valve 116 and / or the second valve 120 are included in the housing 100 and are configured to restrict the surface treatment agent from passing through itself before attachment of the housing 100.

[0259] The first valve and / or the second valve may be included in box 100.

[0260] The box 100 included in the wet cleaning component 104 may be as described above. Figures 1 to 12 The box of any of the embodiments described.

[0261] Alternatively, the first valve 116 and / or the second valve 120 may be part of the housing 100, or may be part of a wet cleaning device, such as a volume displacement device 102.

[0262] In some embodiments, for example Figure 13A , Figure 13B and Figure 14 In the embodiment shown, the first valve 116 is included in the housing 100, and the second valve 120 is included in the wet cleaning device, particularly as part of the volume displacement device 102.

[0263] In such an embodiment, the first valve 116 may include (e.g., is) a first check valve, such as a ball check valve (e.g.) Figure 13A , Figure 13B and Figure 14 (as shown in the image) as well as umbrella valves or duckbill valves.

[0264] The second valve 120 may include (for example, be) a second check valve, such as a duckbill valve (e.g.) Figure 14 (as shown) as well as umbrella valves or ball check valves.

[0265] exist Figure 13B As clearly seen in the provided exploded view, the ball 141 of the first one-way valve 116 is in the form of a ball check valve. The ball 141 can be formed of any suitable material, such as metal or glass. Specifically, the ball 141 is made of glass beads.

[0266] like Figure 13A and Figure 13B As shown, the housing 100 having the first valve 116 may further include a cover assembly 139 for covering (e.g., sealingly covering) the first valve 116 before attaching the housing 100. In this example, the cover assembly 139 includes a protrusion 140A that extends into a recess in the outer surface of the housing 100 on which the first valve 116 is disposed.

[0267] The connecting portion 113 (e.g., part of a bayonet connection) may be included in the second portion 142 of the box 100, which closes the first portion 144 of the box 100, for example, by fastening the second portion 142 to the first portion 144.

[0268] The first portion 144 of the box 100 may be filled with a surface treatment agent, and the second portion 142 snaps onto the first portion 144 to close the chamber 106. Other techniques for closing the box 100 may also be considered, such as welding the first and second portions 142, 144 together, as previously described.

[0269] It should be reiterated that the interface portion 107 may include a sealing region that provides a sealing area for the housing 100 at the interface between the housing 100 and the volume displacement device 102 to prevent leakage of the surface treatment agent. As previously mentioned, such a sealing region may be included in the interface portion 107 together with the connection portion 113.

[0270] In some embodiments, such as Figure 13A , Figure 13B and Figure 14 As shown, the box 100 includes one or more sealing members 138A that at least partially define a sealing area.

[0271] It should be noted that the combination of sealing component 138A and the ball check valve may hinder consumer confidence. Figure 13A and Figure 13B The box 100 shown is refilled. Once closed, for example via a snap closure, the box 100 may also be relatively difficult to open.

[0272] In embodiments where box 100 includes cover component 139, for example Figure 13A and 13B In the embodiment shown, the cover assembly 139 (e.g., a cover assembly 139 including an integral cover member (e.g., a cover) may also include another complementary connection portion 114A for connecting to the connection portion 113 when the box 100 is not attached to the wet cleaning equipment.

[0273] In such an embodiment, the complementary connection portion 114 of the wet cleaning device may correspond to another complementary connection portion 114A of the cover assembly 139 (e.g., the cover).

[0274] This facilitates attaching the box 100 to the wet cleaning equipment because the same connection principle can be used when attaching / removing the cover assembly 139 (e.g., a cover) to cover / expose the interface portion 107 as when attaching / removing the box 100 to / from the wet cleaning equipment.

[0275] exist Figure 13A , Figure 13B , Figure 14 and Figure 15 The draw tube 137 is clearly visible in the box 100 and the metering supply assembly 108 shown.

[0276] Reference Figure 15 The inlet end of the suction tube 137 shown is located at the lowest part of the inclined bottom surface. Furthermore, in this example, the lower end 126 of the box 100 has a raised central portion 146 and a peripheral support portion 147 extending around the raised central portion 146.

[0277] The shape of the lower end 126 of the box 100, provided by the raised central portion 146 and the peripheral support portion 147, allows the box 100 to be stable when it is supported on a surface in an upright position via the peripheral support portion 147.

[0278] This shape can also create space for molding the feature without hindering a stable surface, and can provide the aforementioned lowest part, where the inlet end of the suction tube 137 can be positioned.

[0279] exist Figure 13A , Figure 13B , Figure 14 and Figure 15 In the example shown, the first valve 116 is configured to remove fluid from the chamber 106 by a first action of the volume displacement device 102, in which case the first action corresponds to the resilient compressible container 128 returning to its resting shape. In this example, fluid is drawn out of the chamber 106 through a ball check valve defining the first valve 116.

[0280] The second valve 120 allows fluid (e.g., a surface treatment agent) removed from chamber 106 by the first action to exit metering assembly 108 by a second action of volume displacement device 102, in which case the second action corresponds to compression of the resilient compressible container 128. In this example, fluid is ejected from metering assembly 108 through a duckbill valve defining the second valve 120.

[0281] Note that the first check valve (in this case, a ball check valve) is arranged such that the ball 141 is forced against the valve seat to prevent fluid from flowing back into the housing 100 during the second operation of the volume displacement device 102. Furthermore, the second check valve (in this case, a duckbill valve) is arranged such that air is prevented from being drawn into the metering assembly 108 from the outside during the first operation of the volume displacement device 102.

[0282] In some embodiments, for example Figure 14 In the illustrated embodiment, the wet cleaning device includes a fluid passage 143 that extends from a second valve 120 (e.g., in the direction of the cleaning liquid reservoir 110).

[0283] Although not visible in the figure, the metering component 108 (particularly the volume displacement device 102) can be covered by the housing portion of the wet cleaning equipment. This housing portion can prevent access to the volume displacement device 102, such as the resilient compressible container 128.

[0284] This can help prevent unintentional operation of the volume displacement device 102. This design can also help simplify the electronic activation of the volume displacement device 102, for example, via an electromagnetic coil.

[0285] In some embodiments, the metering of surface treatment agent from cartridge 100 is triggered by installing a cleaning liquid reservoir 110 in the wet cleaning assembly 104 (e.g., together with the metering assembly 108).

[0286] Therefore, the quantitative supply of surface treatment agents can be considered to be implemented in a semi-automatic manner.

[0287] In such an embodiment, the installation of the cleaning liquid storage tank 110 may include the engagement feature of the wet cleaning assembly 104 engaging with the volume displacement device 102 during installation to induce a metered supply of the surface treatment agent.

[0288] For example, when the cleaning liquid reservoir 110 (e.g., together with the metering supply assembly 108) is positioned (e.g., rotated into place) in the wet cleaning assembly 104, the installation of the cleaning liquid reservoir 110 may cause the engagement features of the wet cleaning assembly 104 to compress the resilient compressible container 128.

[0289] More generally, the cartridge 100 and wet cleaning assembly 104 of the present invention enable the use (in other words, the metered supply from cartridge 100) of relatively high concentrations of surface treatment agents. In some cases, such surface treatment agents are harmful to wet cleaning equipment and / or to surfaces (e.g., floors) treated / cleaned using wet cleaning equipment.

[0290] However, the risks associated with such a high concentration of surface treatment agent can be mitigated by metering the agent into the cleaning liquid storage tank 110 and diluting it with the cleaning liquid contained in the tank 110. The high concentration of the surface treatment agent allows the box 100 to be relatively small and thus occupies only a limited amount of space in the wet cleaning assembly 104.

[0291] The interface between the cassette 100 and the volume displacement device 102 helps ensure the use of the correct surface treatment agent and the correct amount of metered supply. Depending on their wear resistance, the components can be placed on the cassette side or the volume displacement device side of the interface.

[0292] By studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement variations of the disclosed embodiments in practicing the claimed invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality.

[0293] The fact that certain measures are described in mutually different dependent claims does not imply that combinations of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0294] If the term “applies to” is used in the claims or description, it should be noted that the term “applies to” is intended to be equivalent to the term “constructed to be able to”.

[0295] Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A cartridge (100) attachable to a wet cleaning apparatus, the wet cleaning apparatus having a volume displacement device (102) for metering the supply of a surface treatment agent from the cartridge, the cartridge comprising: A chamber (106) for containing a surface treatment agent; An interface portion (107) is configured to dock with the volume displacement device during attachment of the box to the wet cleaning equipment to define a metering supply component (108). A first valve (116) is configured to allow fluid to be moved out of or into the chamber by operation of the volume displacement device; as well as A second valve (120) is configured to allow fluid to exit the metering supply assembly, wherein the first valve and the second valve are each configured to restrict the passage of the surface treatment agent therethrough prior to attaching the cartridge to the wet cleaning device.

2. The box (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The box can be attached to the cleaning liquid storage tank (110) of the wet cleaning equipment, and the surface treatment agent leaving the metering supply component (108) can be received in the cleaning liquid storage tank; Optionally, the box is included in or can be attached to a cover (112) for sealing the cleaning liquid storage tank.

3. The box (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first valve (116) includes a first check valve, and / or the second valve (120) includes a second check valve.

4. The box (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a combination valve (122) that integrates the first valve (116) and the second valve (120) together.

5. The box (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The first valve (116) is configured to remove fluid from the chamber (106) by a first action of the volume displacement device (102), and the second valve (120) is configured to allow fluid removed from the chamber by the first action to leave the metering supply assembly (108) by a second action of the volume displacement device; optionally, the housing includes a vent (132) for allowing air to enter the chamber while fluid is removed from the chamber via the first check valve during the first action of the volume displacement device.

6. The box (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The first valve (116) is configured to allow fluid to be moved into the chamber (106) by operation of the volume displacement device (102), and the second valve (120) is configured to allow fluid to be displaced from the fluid moved into the chamber to leave the box; Optionally, the first valve and the second valve are spatially separated from each other across the chamber.

7. The box (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising an upper end (124) and a lower end (126) opposite to the upper end, the interface portion (107) being disposed at or near the upper end (124), and the second valve (120) being arranged such that fluid exits the metering supply assembly (108) in a direction away from the upper end.

8. The box (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a cover assembly (139) for covering the first valve (116) and / or the second valve (120) prior to attaching the box to the wet cleaning device.

9. The box (100) according to claim 8 of claim 5, wherein, The cover assembly (139) is arranged to cover the vent (132) of the box, the cover assembly being configured to expose the vent to allow air to enter the chamber (106) when fluid is drawn out of the chamber by the first action of the volume displacement device (102); optionally, the cover assembly includes an integral cover member that simultaneously covers the vent and the first valve (116) and / or the second valve (120).

10. The box (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The box is disposable; and / or the surface treatment agent is contained in the box.

11. A wet cleaning assembly (104), comprising: A wet cleaning device, the wet cleaning device including a volume displacement device (102); A box (100) includes a chamber (106) and an interface portion, the chamber (106) for containing a surface treatment agent, and the interface portion for docking with the volume displacement device during attachment of the box to the wet cleaning equipment to define a metering supply assembly (108). A first valve (116) is configured to allow fluid to be moved out of or into the chamber by operation of the volume displacement device; A second valve (120) is configured to allow fluid to exit the metering supply assembly, wherein the first valve and / or the second valve is included in the housing and configured to restrict the passage of the surface treatment agent therethrough prior to attachment of the housing; and optional A cleaning liquid storage tank (110) is used to receive surface treatment agent that exits the metering supply assembly via the second valve.

12. The wet cleaning assembly (104) according to claim 11, wherein, The volume displacement device (102) includes a resilient compressible container (128), the elastic compression of which at least partially defines the operation of the volume displacement device; optionally, the resilient compressible container is at least partially defined by a light-transmitting wall (130) to allow observation of the fluid inside the resilient compressible container.

13. The wet cleaning assembly (104) according to claim 12, wherein, The first valve (116) and the second valve (120) are arranged such that: during the period after the resilient compressible container is compressed and returns to its resting shape, fluid is removed from the chamber (106) via the first valve (116), and during a subsequent compression of the resilient compressible container, the fluid removed from the chamber is removed from the metering assembly (108) via the second valve (120); or wherein the first valve and the second valve are arranged such that the compression of the resilient compressible container moves fluid into the chamber via the first valve, and the fluid displaced by the fluid moved into the chamber is removed from the cartridge (100) via the second valve.

14. The wet cleaning assembly (104) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein, The volume displacement device (102) includes an electric volume displacement device; optionally, the electric volume displacement device is arranged to enable automatic quantitative supply of surface treatment agent from the box (100).

15. The wet cleaning assembly (104) according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the wet cleaning assembly comprises one or more of a wet mop device, a wet vacuum cleaner, a window cleaner, and a sweeper; and / or wherein the wet cleaning assembly comprises a robotic wet cleaning device configured to move autonomously on the surface to be cleaned.

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