Wiper assembly for floor cleaning machine and related floor cleaning machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a wiper assembly for collecting a floor surface liquid, comprising a frame (2) having a bottom side (2a) and a top side (2b), front and rear blades (3a, 3b) coupled to the frame and defining an elongate liquid collection volume (4), 3b), a suction opening (5) defining an inlet opening (7) on the underside of the frame, and a nozzle (6) extending from the suction opening through the frame and towards a delivery section (8) spaced from the suction opening. The cross-sectional area of the inlet hole (7) is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the nozzle at the conveying section. The invention also relates to a floor cleaning machine comprising the wiper assembly.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a squeegee assembly and a machine for cleaning a floor or a flat surface. The floor cleaning machine can comprise one or more suction devices and a cleaning unit or a washing unit for the surface to be treated. BACKGROUND

[0002] The floor cleaning machine has a cleaning unit comprising a cleaning brush or pad arranged at the front or bottom side of the machine and a squeegee assembly arranged at the rear of the machine for removing the floor liquid.

[0003] The known squeegee assembly comprises a support chassis, a central suction nozzle connectable to a vacuum pump, and flexible front and rear blades (for example made of rubber) adapted to contact the surface to be cleaned. During operation of the squeegee assembly, air and liquid coming from the right and left sides of the squeegee move along the rear blade and mix with each other at the suction nozzle. The meeting of said fluid flows generates a turbulent flow in the suction nozzle, which hinders the effective suction of the fluid, causing it to possibly stagnate in the area surrounding the suction nozzle.

[0004] To overcome this drawback, squeegee assemblies are known which employ vacuum pumps capable of providing high power to enhance the suction of the fluid. However, such solutions have proven to be costly, bulky and noisy, and only partially solve the problems mentioned above.

[0005] Invention Objectives

[0006] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to solve at least one of the drawbacks and / or limitations of the aforementioned solutions.

[0007] A first object of the present invention is to provide a squeegee assembly which maximizes the efficiency of fluid suction while minimizing the implementation costs.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a squeegee assembly which is simple in design and capable of reliably collecting the liquid.

[0009] Still another object of the present invention is to provide a squeegee assembly which is capable of limiting the clogging of debris so as not to affect the operation of the squeegee assembly itself.

[0010] These and other objects are substantially achieved by a squeegee assembly and a floor cleaning machine in accordance with one or more of the claims and / or aspects described below, which will become more apparent from the following description. SUMMARY

[0011] Various aspects of the present invention are described below.

[0012] In a first aspect, there is provided a squeegee assembly for collecting a liquid on a floor surface, comprising:

[0013] - a frame (2) having a bottom side (2a) configured to face a floor surface and a top side (2b) opposite the bottom side (2a),

[0014] - a front squeegee (3a) and a rear squeegee (3b) coupled to the frame (2) to co-define, with the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2), an elongated liquid collection volume (4),

[0015] - at least one suction port (5) on the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2) defining an inlet aperture (7) in the elongated liquid collection volume (4),

[0016] - a nozzle (6) extending from the suction port (5) through the frame (2) and towards a delivery section (8) spaced from the suction port (5),

[0017] - wherein the cross-sectional area of the inlet aperture (7) is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the nozzle (6) at the delivery section (8).

[0018] In a 2nd aspect, according to the previous aspect, the ratio between the cross-sectional area of the inlet aperture (7) and the cross-sectional area of the suction port (5) at the delivery section (8) is between 0.3 and 0.7.

[0019] In a 3rd aspect, according to either of the two previous aspects, the ratio between the cross-sectional area of the inlet aperture (7) and the cross-sectional area of the suction port (5) at the delivery section (8) is between 0.4 and 0.6.

[0020] In a 4th aspect, according to any of the previous aspects, the cross-sectional area of the nozzle (6) is minimum at or immediately adjacent to the suction port (5).

[0021] In a 5th aspect, according to any of the previous aspects, the cross-sectional area of the nozzle (6) increases in the direction from the suction port (5) towards the delivery section (8).

[0022] In a 6th aspect, according to any of the previous aspects, the inlet aperture (7) has an elongated configuration.

[0023] In a 7th aspect, according to any of the previous aspects, the inlet aperture (7) has a non-circular configuration.

[0024] In an 8th aspect, according to any of the previous aspects, the inlet aperture (7) extends co-planarly with the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2).

[0025] In a 9th aspect, according to any of the previous aspects, the inlet aperture (7) is circumferentially delimited by:

[0026] - a front edge (9) facing the front squeegee, and

[0027] - a rear edge (10) facing the rear wiper blade.

[0028] In a 10th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the front edge (9) extends between opposite end portions coinciding with respective opposite end portions of the rear edge (10).

[0029] In an 11th aspect, according to either of the two previous aspects, the front and rear edges (9, 10) define a closed profile, optionally a closed planar profile.

[0030] In a 12th aspect, according to any one of the three previous aspects, the rear edge (10) extends along a curved trajectory, and / or wherein the front edge (9) extends along a respective curved or straight trajectory.

[0031] In a 13th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the curved trajectories of the rear edge (10) and of the front edge (9) are formed by respective circular arcs lying on the same ideal plane.

[0032] In a 14th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the radius of curvature of the rear edge circular arc is smaller than the radius of curvature of the front edge circular arc (9).

[0033] In a 15th aspect, according to either of the two previous aspects, the ratio between the respective radii of curvature of the front and rear edges (9, 10) is between 1.5 and 10, further optionally between 2 and 5.

[0034] In a 16th aspect, according to any one of the previous aspects, the concavity of the curved trajectory of the front edge (9) faces the front wiper blade, and / or the concavity of the curved trajectory of the rear edge (10) faces the front wiper blade.

[0035] In a 17th aspect, according to any one of the previous aspects, the inlet aperture (7) has a symmetrical configuration with respect to an ideal plane (A) perpendicular and perpendicular to the front and rear wiper blades (3a, 3b).

[0036] In an 18th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the inlet aperture (7) has a height (H) measured on the plane in which the inlet aperture lies and parallel to the ideal perpendicular plane (A).

[0037] In a 19th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the inlet aperture (7) has a width (L) measured parallel to a direction (B) orthogonal to the ideal perpendicular plane (A).

[0038] In a 20th aspect, according to either of the two previous aspects, the height (H) of the inlet aperture (7) is maximum on the ideal perpendicular plane (A) and gradually decreases as it moves away from the ideal plane (A).

[0039] In a 21st aspect, according to any of the previous two aspects, the width (L) of the inlet aperture (7) is maximum at the leading edge (9) and gradually decreases as moving from the leading edge (9) towards the trailing edge (10).

[0040] In a 22nd aspect, according to the previous two aspects, the ratio between the maximum height and the maximum width of the inlet aperture (7) is between 0.2 and 0.8.

[0041] In a 23rd aspect, according to any of the aspects from 18 to 22, the ideal vertical plane (A) is a plane of symmetry passing vertically through the front and rear wiper blades (3a, 3b), optionally so that the frame (2) is divided into two symmetrical halves.

[0042] In a 24th aspect, according to any of the aspects from 20 to 23, the ratio between the maximum height of the inlet aperture (7) and the distance measured parallel to the direction on the ideal vertical plane (A) between the front and rear wiper blades (3a, 3b) is between 0.4 and 0.6.

[0043] In a 25th aspect, according to any of the aspects from 18 to 24, the minimum distance measured parallel to the direction on the ideal vertical plane (A) between the trailing edge (10) of the inlet aperture (7) and the rear wiper blade (3b) is smaller than the minimum distance measured parallel to the direction on the ideal plane (A) between the leading edge (9) of the inlet aperture (7) and the front wiper blade (3a).

[0044] In a 26th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the ratio between the minimum distance between the trailing edge (10) and the rear wiper blade (3b) and the minimum distance between the leading edge (9) and the front wiper blade (3a) is between 0.1 and 0.5.

[0045] In a 27th aspect, according to any of the previous aspects, the nozzle (6) comprises a bevelled section engaging the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2).

[0046] In a 28th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the bevelled section forms a converging section of the nozzle (6) located before the neck of the nozzle where the cross-sectional area of the nozzle (6) is minimum.

[0047] In a 29th aspect, according to any of the previous two aspects, the bevelled section forms a rounded surface (rounded surface) smoothly connecting the surface of the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2) with the inner surface of the nozzle neck.

[0048] In a 30th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the radius of curvature of the rounded surface of the bevelled section varies along the trailing edge (10).

[0049] In a 31st aspect, according to any one of the previous two aspects, the radius of curvature of the rounded surface of the bevelled section is maximum at the end of the trailing edge (10) and continuously and progressively decreases along the trailing edge (10) from the trailing edge end towards the centre of the same trailing edge.

[0050] In a 32nd aspect, according to any one of the previous three aspects, the radius of curvature of the rounded surface along at least a main portion of the leading edge is less than the radius of curvature of the rounded surface at the trailing edge end.

[0051] In a 33rd aspect, according to any one of the aspects 29 to 32, the radius of curvature of the rounded surface is substantially constant along the leading edge.

[0052] In a 34th aspect, according to any one of the aspects 29 to 33, the ratio between the radius of curvature of the rounded surface at the trailing edge end and the radius of curvature of the rounded surface at the centre of the same trailing edge is between 2 and 6.

[0053] In a 35th aspect, according to any one of the previous aspects, the nozzle (6) has a tubular conformation, defining a channel for the transport of air, debris and liquid particles from the inlet hole (7) to the transport section (8).

[0054] In a 36th aspect, according to any one of the previous aspects, the transport section (8) of the nozzle (6) extends above the top side (2b) of the frame (2) and is configured to receive or be connected to a suction pipe.

[0055] In a 37th aspect, according to any one of the previous aspects, the suction mouth (5) and / or nozzle (6) are coated with a layer of vibration-damping material, such as rubber or silicone.

[0056] In a 38th aspect, according to any one of the previous aspects, a baffle (11) is included, which is coupled to the frame (2) and extends laterally to the nozzle (6).

[0057] In a 39th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the baffle (11) at least partially masks the inlet hole (7) of the suction mouth (5).

[0058] In a 40th aspect, according to any one of the previous two aspects, the baffle (11) has a symmetrical conformation with respect to an ideal plane of symmetry (A) perpendicular to the first and second blades (3a, 3b).

[0059] In a 41st aspect, according to any one of the previous three aspects, the baffle (11) has an outer wall continuous with the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2).

[0060] In a 42nd aspect, according to any of the previous four aspects, the baffle (11) defines a front edge (9) of the inlet aperture (7).

[0061] In a 43rd aspect, according to any of the aspects from 38 to 42, the delivery section (8) defines a distal end of the nozzle (6), and wherein the baffle (11) has a thickness measured perpendicularly to the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2) which is smaller than the distance between the suction opening (5) and the delivery section (8) of the nozzle (6), optionally at least 10 times smaller.

[0062] In a 44th aspect, according to any of the aspects from 38 to 43, the baffle thickness is comprised between 0.5 mm and 5 mm.

[0063] In a 45th aspect, according to any of the previous aspects, the frame (2) has an arcuate shape extending between a first and a second end (12, 13) transversely to the direction of travel (D) of the wiper assembly.

[0064] In a 46th aspect, according to any of the previous aspects, the frame (2) comprises a front side (14) and a rear side (15) spaced apart from each other at the suction opening (5), wherein the distance between the front and rear sides (14, 15) of the frame (2) progressively narrows as one moves from the suction opening (5) towards the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame (2).

[0065] In a 47th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the front and rear sides (14, 15) of the frame (2) meet at the two ends (12, 13) of the frame (2).

[0066] In a 48th aspect, according to any of the previous two aspects, the front and rear sides (14, 15) of the frame (2) extend along their respective curved trajectories.

[0067] In a 49th aspect, according to any of the previous aspects, the front and rear wiper blades (3a, 3b) have a respective arcuate shape.

[0068] In a 50th aspect, according to any of the aspects from 45 to 49, the front and rear wiper blades (3a, 3b) extend along the entire length of the frame (2), only between the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame (2).

[0069] In a 51st aspect, according to any of the previous aspects, the distance between the front and rear wiper blades (3a, 3b) is maximum at the suction opening (5).

[0070] In a 52nd aspect, according to any one of the preceding aspects, the distance between the front and rear blades (3a, 3b) gradually decreases as moving from the suction opening (5) towards the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame (2).

[0071] In a 53rd aspect, according to any one of the preceding aspects, the elongated liquid collection volume (4) gradually narrows as advancing from the suction opening towards the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame.

[0072] In a 54th aspect, according to any one of the preceding aspects, the maximum distance between the front and rear blades (3a, 3b) is comprised between 5 and 30 millimetres.

[0073] In a 55th aspect, according to any one of the aspects from 45 to 54, the first and second blades (3a, 3b) are spaced apart from each other at the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame (2), defining respective passages (16) for the liquid to be introduced into the elongated liquid collection volume (4).

[0074] In a 56th aspect, according to any one of the preceding aspects, the front blade (3a) comprises at least one front notch (17) at the interface with the floor to allow the liquid to be directed into the elongated liquid collection volume (4) behind the front blade (3a).

[0075] In a 57th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the front notch (17) is aligned with the suction opening (5) parallel to the plane of symmetry of the squeegee assembly.

[0076] In a 58th aspect, according to any one of the two previous aspects, the front blade (3a) comprises two or more side notches (17a, 17b) respectively interposed between the front notch (17) and the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame (2); the side notches (17a, 17b) define respective passages to allow the liquid to be delivered to the elongated liquid collection volume (4).

[0077] In a 59th aspect, according to any one of the preceding aspects, the front and rear blades (3a, 3b) are made of rubber or silicone.

[0078] In a 60th aspect, according to any one of the preceding aspects, the squeegee assembly comprises two or more wheels (18) coupled with the frame (2) to roll along the floor on which the squeegee assembly passes.

[0079] In a 61st aspect, according to any one of the preceding aspects, the wiper assembly comprises horizontal wheels (19) coupled respectively to a first end and a second end (12, 13) of the frame (2) and movable in rotation about an axis respectively perpendicular to the frame (2).

[0080] In a 62nd aspect, according to the previous aspect, the horizontal wheels (19) extend beyond the lateral footprint of the frame (2).

[0081] In a 63rd aspect, there is provided a floor cleaning machine comprising:

[0082] - a support chassis (102),

[0083] - at least one cleaning unit (101) coupled with the support chassis (102) and configured to clean a floor surface, the cleaning unit comprising:

[0084] o one or more cleaning pads (103) or cleaning rollers,

[0085] o at least one collection tank (104) for receiving waste liquid,

[0086] o a suction pipe (105) in fluid communication with the collection tank (104),

[0087] - the wiper assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding aspects coupled to the support chassis (102) of the machine, wherein the nozzle (6) of the wiper assembly (1) is in fluid communication with the collection tank (104) through the suction pipe (105)

[0088] with the collection tank (104).

[0089] In a 64th aspect, according to the previous aspect, the wiper assembly (1) is coupled to a lower portion of the support chassis (102) of the machine, located behind the cleaning unit (101) with respect to a direction of travel (D) of the machine.

[0090] In a 65th aspect, according to any one of the two previous aspects, the front squeegee (3a) faces the cleaning unit and is located in front of the rear squeegee (3b) with respect to the direction of travel (D) of the machine.

[0091] In a 66th aspect, according to any one of the three previous aspects, the wiper assembly (1) is articulated with the support chassis (102) of the machine.

[0092] In a 67th aspect, according to any one of the four previous aspects, the wiper assembly is configurable between:

[0093] - an active state, in which the first and second squeegees (3a, 3b) are configured to contact a floor surface to be cleaned,

[0094] - a non-active state, in which said first and second blades (3a, 3b) are configured to be spaced apart from the floor surface.

[0095] In a 68th aspect, according to the previous aspect, said floor cleaning machine comprises a joystick (106) acting on said squeegee assembly for moving said squeegee assembly from the non-active state to the active state and vice versa.

[0096] In a 69th aspect, according to the previous aspect, said joystick (106) is manually operated by a user or automatically operated by a pneumatic or hydraulic driver.

[0097] In a 70th aspect, according to any one of the aspects from 63 to 69, said suction duct (105) comprises a connector (107) optionally removably coupled to the delivery section (8) of the nozzle (6) of said squeegee assembly (1).

[0098] In a 71st aspect, according to any one of the aspects from 63 to 70, said floor cleaning machine comprises a suction generator, optionally equipped with a motor or vacuum pump, acting on said suction duct (105) for suctioning air, debris and liquid particles from the floor surface through the inlet aperture (7) of the suction mouth (5) of said squeegee assembly and collecting them in said collection tank (104).

[0099] In a 72nd aspect, according to any one of the aspects from 63 to 71, said floor cleaning machine comprises:

[0100] - one or more clean liquid tanks (109a, 109b) for containing a fluid, such as water, a cleaning fluid or a disinfectant,

[0101] - one or more supply lines fluidically coupled with said clean liquid tanks (109a, 109b) and with said cleaning unit (101) for supplying one or more fluids to said cleaning unit (101).

[0102] In a 73rd aspect, according to any one of the aspects from 63 to 72, said floor cleaning machine comprises a main wheel (108) mounted on a lower portion of a support chassis (102) of said machine and rotatably movable about a horizontal axis; said main wheel is adapted to move said floor cleaning machine along a direction of travel (D) of said machine. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0103] Some embodiments and aspects of the present application will be described hereinafter with reference to the attached drawings, which are provided by way of non-limiting example and therefore are not necessarily to scale, in which:

[0104] - Figure 1 is a side perspective view of a floor cleaning machine according to the present application,

[0105] - Figure 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of a floor cleaning machine according to the present application,

[0106] - Figure 3 is a top perspective view of a squeegee assembly according to the present application,

[0107] - Figure 4 is a bottom perspective view of a squeegee assembly according to the present application,

[0108] - Figure 5 is a bottom view of a squeegee assembly according to the present application,

[0109] - Figure 6 and 7 is a partial sectional perspective view of a squeegee assembly according to the present application,

[0110] - Figure 8 is a detail view of a suction mouth of a squeegee assembly according to the present application.

[0111] Definitions and Conventions

[0112] It is noted that, in the detailed description, corresponding parts shown in the various drawings are indicated using the same number reference. The drawings can illustrate the inventive subject matter by non- proportional representation; therefore, the components and assemblies related to the inventive subject matter in the drawings can be represented only schematically. Vertical, horizontal, upward, downward: these terms refer to the orientation of the device in the normal operating conditions during use.

[0113] Upstream and downstream: refer to the position of the components with respect to the air flow of the exhaust unit and of the intake unit part during operation of the device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0114] With reference to the attached Figure 1 and Figure 2 a floor cleaning machine 100 is described, comprising a support chassis 102 defining at least one housing containing various internal components of the machine. The lower part of the support chassis 102 is connected with a cleaning unit 101 so as to act on the floor to be cleaned. In particular, the cleaning unit 101 is shown, without limitation, in the front area of the machine 100 and can comprise one or more cleaning pads 103 and / or one or more cleaning rollers.

[0115] As Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the machine can comprise one or more clean liquid tanks 109a, 109b housed in the support chassis 102 for containing water, cleaning or sanitizing liquids, concentrates, etc., which can be dispensed through one or more supply conduits to the cleaning unit 101 and / or directly to the floor. The machine can comprise a collection tank 104 housed in or supported by the support chassis and predisposed for receiving waste liquids which can be conducted through a suction pipe 105 connected to the collection tank 104 and removably joined to the squeegee assembly 1 described below. The floor cleaning machine 100 can also comprise a suction generator, for example a motor or a vacuum pump, acting on the suction pipe 105 or located downstream of the collection tank 104, to suction air, debris and liquid particles from the floor surface through the squeegee assembly and collect them in the collection tank 104. In a manner which is per se conventional and not limiting, the machine 100 also comprises main wheels 108 mounted at the lower part of the support chassis 102, which are rotatably movable about a horizontal axis, the direction of movement of which is such as to move the machine 100 in a direction of travel D. As previously mentioned, the machine 100 is equipped with one or more squeegee assemblies 1 for removing floor liquids, which are coupled to the lower part of the support chassis 102 of the machine, located behind the cleaning unit 101 with respect to the direction of travel D of the machine. In particular, the squeegee assembly 1 can be articulated to the support chassis 102 of the machine and can be configured between an active condition, in which it contacts the floor to be cleaned, and an inactive condition, in which it is spaced apart from the floor surface, thus facilitating the movement of the machine when it is not performing a floor cleaning operation. The machine can also comprise a joystick 106, which is manually operated by the user or automatically operated by means of a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator, which acts on the squeegee assembly to move it from the inactive condition to the active condition and vice versa.

[0116] The squeegee assembly 1 can have two or more wheels 18, which are rotatably movable about a horizontal axis, to move the squeegee assembly together with the support chassis 102 of the machine 100 in the direction of travel D. The squeegee assembly can also have two horizontal wheels 19, which are rotatably movable about respective vertical axes, which define the respective ends of the squeegee assembly, thus determining a maximum cross-sectional footprint.

[0117] The squeegee assembly comprises a frame 2, which is defined (constituted) by an elongated main body, which extends transversely between a first end 12 and a second end 13, transversely to the direction of travel D of the machine. The length of the frame 2 can be at least equal to the transverse footprint of the machine 100 to which it is connected, or preferably it can be greater than the transverse footprint of the machine 100, to maximize the collection of liquids on the floor to be treated. For example, as shown in the figures, the length of the frame 2 can be greater than the length of the machine 100, so as to extend beyond the support chassis 102 of the machine 100. Figures 3-5 As shown, the frame has an overall arcuate configuration, more specifically, it has an inverted "C" or "U" shaped cross-section.

[0118] The frame is defined in height by a bottom side 2a facing the floor surface to be treated and a top side 2b opposite the bottom side 2a and facing the lower portion of the support chassis 102 of the machine 100. Moreover, the frame 2 is defined in width by a front side 14 facing the cleaning unit 101 of the machine 100 and a rear side 15 located behind the front side 14 with respect to the direction of travel D.

[0119] It is noted that the frame exhibits a constant height, i.e. the distance between the bottom side 2a and the top side 2b is constant along the entire length of the frame, while its width varies from the first end 12 to the second end 13 of the frame 2. The front side 14 and the rear side 15 of the frame are spaced apart a maximum distance in a central region of the frame 2 to define a maximum width, which gradually narrows as it advances towards the first end 12 and the second end 13, converging at the junction of the front side 14 and the rear side 15.

[0120] The squeegee assembly comprises two or more flexible blades carried by the frame 2, which are configured to contact the floor surface to be treated (the flexible blades are defined as elongated bodies, in particular thin elongated bodies, capable of wiping the floor to be cleaned). In particular, the squeegee assembly comprises a front blade 3a facing the cleaning unit 101 and a rear blade 3b located behind the front blade with respect to the direction of travel D. The front blade 3a and the rear blade 3b are mainly arranged below the bottom side 2a of the frame 2, just cooperating with the bottom side 2a to define an elongated liquid collection volume 4 where liquids and debris are collected in order to be sucked and conveyed to the collection tank 104. In a per se conventional and non-limiting manner, the front blade 3a and the rear blade 3b engage the front side 14 and the rear side 15, respectively, at the bottom side 2a of the frame 2, assuming respective arc-shaped configurations which follow the arc-shaped profile of the front side 14 and of the rear side 15 along the entire length of the frame 2. The front blade 3a and the rear blade 3b are mutually offset a maximum distance in a central region of the frame 2, which gradually decreases as it advances towards the first end 12 and the second end 13 of the frame 2. Similarly, the elongated liquid collection volume 4 also gradually narrows as it advances from the central region towards the first end 12 and the second end 13 of the frame 2.

[0121] It is noted that, in one embodiment, the front blade 3a and the rear blade 3b can not meet at the first end 12 and the second end 13 of the frame, but can for example remain spaced apart to define respective passages 16 for the introduction of fluids and debris into the elongated liquid collection volume 4. The additional passages for the entry of fluids and debris into the elongated liquid collection volume 4 are defined by notches, cutouts, grooves or other openings provided at the front blade-floor contact interface. For example, as shown, the front blade 3a can have a front notch 17 aligned with the central region of the frame and two or more side notches 17a, 17b interposed between the front notch 17 and the first end 12 and the second end 13 of the frame 2, respectively, defining respective passages for the introduction of fluids into the elongated liquid collection volume 4. Figure 4 ​

[0122] In terms of materials, both the front wiper 3a and the rear wiper 3b can be made of a flexible material, such as rubber or silicone.

[0123] The squeegee assembly 1 can also comprise a suction mouth 5 on the bottom side 2b of the frame 2, which defines an inlet hole 7 facing the elongated liquid collection volume, to allow suction of the fluid and debris on the surface to be cleaned.

[0124] The inlet hole 7 can have a circular configuration, or, in order to further reduce the formation of turbulence in the vicinity of the suction mouth 5, the inlet hole 7 can have an elongated non-circular configuration, for example semicircular or substantially semicircular, as shown in Figure 5 and Figure 8 .

[0125] As shown in Figure 5 , the inlet hole 7 is, for example, coplanar with the bottom side 2a of the frame 2 and is symmetrical with respect to an ideal vertical plane perpendicular to the front wiper 3a and to the rear wiper 3b. With reference to the figures, the ideal vertical plane A is the plane of symmetry of the elongated volume 4 and passes perpendicularly through the front wiper 3a and the rear wiper 3b: the inlet hole 7 is thus arranged in the central region of the frame 2. However, we do not exclude the possibility of arranging one or more inlet holes 7 offset from the ideal vertical plane of symmetry A, spaced apart from the central region of the frame 2.

[0126] The inlet hole 7 is defined circumferentially by an edge having two distinct sections connected to each other to define a closed profile. More in detail, the suction mouth 5 has a front edge 9 facing the front wiper 3a, which extends between respective opposite ends coinciding with the corresponding ends of a rear edge 10 facing the rear wiper 3b, thus defining a closed planar profile.

[0127] The front edge 9 can extend along a rectilinear trajectory (variant not shown in the figures) or, preferably, along a curvilinear trajectory, concave towards the front wiper 3a Figure 5 . The rear edge 10 also extends along a curvilinear trajectory towards the front wiper 3a, formed by a circular arc having a radius of curvature smaller than that of the circular arc defining the front edge 9. The ratio between the respective radii of curvature of the front edge 9 and of the rear edge 10 is, in terms of dimensions, between 1.5 and 10, further optionally between 2 and 5.

[0128] The inlet aperture 7 also has a height H measured in the plane of the inlet aperture and parallel to the ideal plane A, and a width L measured parallel to the direction B orthogonal to the ideal plane A. Note that the height H is maximum in or at the vertical plane A and decreases progressively as one moves away from the ideal plane A towards the leading and trailing edge ends; while the width is maximum at or on the leading edge 9 and decreases progressively as one moves from the leading edge 9 towards the trailing edge 10. As mentioned previously, the inlet aperture 7 presents an elongated configuration, with its length direction dimension greater than the height H. In other words, the ratio between the maximum height and the maximum width of the inlet aperture 7 is comprised between 0.2 and 0.8.

[0129] It is also noted that the inlet aperture 7 is located closer to the rear blade 3b, resulting in a greater distance from the front blade 3a. The minimum distance between the trailing edge 10 of the inlet aperture and the rear blade 3b (measured parallel to the aforementioned ideal vertical plane A) is less than the minimum distance between the leading edge 9 and the front blade 3a (also measured parallel to the ideal vertical plane A). More specifically, the ratio between the minimum distance between the trailing edge 10 and the rear blade 3b and the minimum distance between the leading edge 9 and the front blade 3a is comprised between 0.1 and 0.5.

[0130] The wiper assembly 1 also comprises a nozzle 6 carried by the frame 2, which is detachably connected to the suction pipe 105 so as to draw the fluid and debris through the inlet aperture 7 of the suction mouth 5 and deliver them to the collection tank 104. For example, as shown in Figure 6 and Figure 7 The nozzle 6 has a tubular configuration main body which passes through the frame 2 from the suction mouth 5 and extends above the frame top side 2b, defining a channel for delivering the fluid to the suction pipe 105. On the side of the nozzle 6 close to the frame top side 2b and opposite the suction mouth 5, the nozzle 6 has a delivery section 8 which is connectable to the suction pipe 105 through a connector 107 (it is also conceivable that the delivery section is integral with the suction pipe or permanently connected to the nozzle 6).

[0131] In addition to the use of an inlet aperture 7 in elongated non-circular configuration, it is also possible to further reduce the occurrence of turbulence in the vicinity of the suction mouth 5 by using a nozzle having a fluid passage cross section greater than the fluid passage cross section of the inlet aperture 7 at or in the vicinity of the delivery section 8. As mentioned previously, the inlet aperture 7 has a fluid passage cross section which is substantially constant along its length direction. In other words, the ratio between the maximum and minimum fluid passage cross section of the inlet aperture 7 is comprised between 0.8 and 1.2. Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the cross-sectional area of ​​the fluid channel in nozzle 6 at the conveying section 8 is larger than that of the fluid channel in inlet orifice 7. Reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the fluid channel in inlet orifice 7 can increase the velocity of the dirty fluid drawn in at inlet orifice 7, while limiting the generation of turbulence strong enough to hinder the efficient and effective suction of the dirty fluid. The cross-sectional area of ​​nozzle 6 is minimum at or immediately adjacent to suction port 5 and increases as it moves from suction port toward conveying section 8. In one embodiment of the invention not shown in the figures, nozzle 6 may have a conical or funnel-shaped configuration, having the largest fluid channel cross-sectional area at conveying section 8 and gradually decreasing toward inlet orifice 7. Dimensionally, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​inlet orifice 7 to the cross-sectional area of ​​suction port 5 at conveying section 8 is between 0.3 and 0.7, optionally between 0.4 and 0.6.

[0132] Preferably, but not limiting the invention, the turbulence generated at the suction port 5 can be further limited by providing a beveled section to the nozzle 6. This beveled section connects to the bottom side 2a of the frame 2, forming a converging section of the nozzle 6. This section is located before the nozzle neck, where the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet orifice 7 is minimized. For example, as Figure 8 As shown, the beveled section forms corresponding rounded surfaces at the leading edge 9 and trailing edge 10, which smoothly connect the surface of the bottom side 2a of the frame 2 to the inner surface of the nozzle neck. Along the trailing edge 10, the rounded surfaces of the beveled section have varying radii of curvature, while along the leading edge 9, the radius of curvature of the rounded surfaces is essentially constant. In particular, the radius of curvature of the rounded surfaces along the trailing edge 10 is maximum at the trailing edge end 10 and continuously and gradually decreases along the trailing edge 10 from the trailing edge end 10 toward the center of the same trailing edge.

[0133] The radius of curvature of the fillet surface along at least a major portion of the leading edge 9 is smaller than the radius of curvature of the fillet surface at the end of the trailing edge 10. For example, the ratio of the radius of curvature of the fillet surface at the end of the trailing edge 10 to the radius of curvature of the fillet surface at the center of the same trailing edge 10 is between 2 and 6.

[0134] Turbulence and / or noise at the suction port 5 can be further suppressed by covering the suction port 5 and / or nozzle 6 with a layer of suitable damping material (e.g., rubber or silicone).

[0135] According to another embodiment of the invention, instead of manufacturing a conical nozzle 6, an inlet hole 7 with a fluid channel cross-sectional area smaller than that of the nozzle delivery section can be obtained by setting a nozzle 6 with a constant cross-sectional area and a baffle 11 transverse to the nozzle 6, wherein the baffle partially obscures the inlet hole 7 of the suction port 5. Figure 6 and Figure 7). The baffle 11 comprises an outer wall which extends above the suction opening 5 and partially masks it to define the end of the nozzle 6 opposite the delivery section 8. The outer wall of the baffle 11 can also have a symmetrical configuration with respect to an ideal vertical plane of symmetry and extend continuously with the bottom side 2a of the frame 2.

[0136] In the embodiments described herein, the baffle 11 defines the front edge 9 of the inlet aperture 7, while the rear edge 10 is defined on the nozzle 6 according to the previous discussion. According to the above description, the front edge of the baffle 11 which defines the front edge 9 is bevelled, constituting a rounded surface with constant radius of curvature. The baffle 11 is substantially a plate with reduced thickness, for example between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, measured perpendicularly to the bottom side 2a of the frame 2. The thickness of the baffle 11 is, in relative terms, less than the distance between the suction opening 5 and the delivery section 8 of the nozzle 6, optionally at least 10 times less. The baffle 11, as a plate which partially masks the suction opening, has the advantage not only of reducing the intensity of the turbulence at the suction opening, but also of defining a wall which can intercept and prevent the backflow of the fluid from the inlet aperture 7 to the suction direction of the delivery section 8. This prevents the backflow of the fluid in the area surrounding the suction opening 5, maximising the collection of the soiled fluid.

Claims

1. A squeegee assembly for collecting liquids from a floor surface, comprising: - A frame (2) having a bottom side (2a) configured to face the floor surface and a top side (2b) opposite to the bottom side (2a). - Front scraper (3a) and rear scraper (3b), coupled to the frame (2), for defining an elongated liquid collection volume (4) together with the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2). - At least one suction port (5) at the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2), the suction port being defined by an inlet hole (7) opening into the elongated liquid collection volume (4), - A nozzle (6) extending from the suction port (5) through the frame (2) and reaching a conveying section (8) spaced apart from the suction port (5), The cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet hole (7) is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle (6) at the conveying section (8).

2. The wiper assembly according to the preceding claim, wherein the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet hole (7) to the cross-sectional area of ​​the suction port (5) at the conveying section (8) is 0.3 to 0.

7. Optionally, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet hole (7) to the cross-sectional area of ​​the suction port (5) at the conveying section (8) is 0.4 to 0.

6.

3. The wiper assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle (6) is minimum at or immediately adjacent to the suction port (5) and increases in the direction from the suction port (5) toward the delivery section (8).

4. The wiper assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the inlet hole (7) has a non-circular elongated configuration and optionally extends to be coplanar with the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2).

5. The wiper assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inlet hole (7) is defined in the circumferential direction by the following boundaries: -Facing the leading edge (9) of the front scraper, and -Facing the trailing edge (10) of the rear scraper, -in, The leading edge (9) extends between opposing ends, which coincide with the corresponding opposing ends of the trailing edge (10), and the leading and trailing edges (9, 10) define a closed profile, optionally a closed planar profile. - wherein the trailing edge (10) extends along a curved trajectory, and - wherein the leading edge (9) extends along the corresponding curve or straight line trajectory.

6. The wiper assembly according to the preceding claim, wherein the curved trajectories of the trailing edge (10) and the leading edge (9) are formed by corresponding arcs located on the same ideal plane, wherein the radius of curvature of the arc of the trailing edge is smaller than the radius of curvature of the arc of the leading edge (9). Optionally, the ratio of the respective radii of curvature of the leading edge and the trailing edge (9, 10) is 1.5 to 10, more preferably 2 to 5. in, The concave surfaces of the curved trajectories of the leading edge and the trailing edge (9, 10) both face the front scraper.

7. The wiper assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inlet hole (7) is symmetrically configured with respect to an ideal plane (A), which is perpendicular to and perpendicular to the front and rear wiper blades (3a, 3b). The inlet hole (7) has a symmetrical configuration with respect to an ideal plane (A) that is perpendicular to and perpendicular to the front and rear scrapers (3a, 3b). in, The inlet hole (7) has: - The height (H) measured on the plane where the inlet hole is located and parallel to the ideal plane (A), - The width (L) measured on the plane of the inlet hole and parallel to the direction (B) orthogonal to the ideal plane (A). The height is maximum on the ideal plane (A) and gradually decreases as it moves away from the ideal plane (A), and the width is maximum at the leading edge and gradually decreases as it moves from the leading edge toward the trailing edge. The ratio of the maximum height to the maximum width of the inlet hole (7) is between 0.2 and 0.

8. The ideal plane (A) is a symmetrical plane that passes perpendicularly through the front and rear scrapers (3a, 3b), thereby dividing the frame (2) into two symmetrical halves. The ratio of the maximum height of the inlet hole (7) to the distance measured in a direction parallel to the ideal plane between the front and rear scrapers (3a, 3b) is 0.4 to 0.

6. The minimum distance measured in a direction parallel to the ideal vertical plane between the rear edge (10) of the inlet hole (7) and the rear scraper (3b) is less than the minimum distance measured in a direction parallel to the ideal vertical plane between the front edge (9) and the front scraper (3a). The ratio of the minimum distance between the rear edge (10) and the rear scraper (3b) to the minimum distance between the front edge (9) and the front scraper (3a) is 0.1 to 0.

5.

8. The wiper assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nozzle (6) includes a beveled section engaging with the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2), the beveled section forming a converging section of the nozzle (6) located before the neck of the nozzle, at which the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle (6) is minimized. in, The beveled section forms a rounded surface that smoothly connects the surface of the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2) to the inner surface of the nozzle neck, wherein the radius of curvature of the rounded surface of the beveled section varies along the trailing edge (10). The radius of curvature of the rounded corner surface of the oblique section is maximum at the end of the trailing edge (10), and continuously and gradually decreases towards the center of the same trailing edge from the end away from the trailing edge (10). Wherein, the radius of the fillet surface along at least a major portion of the leading edge is smaller than the radius of curvature of the fillet surface at the trailing edge end, optionally wherein the radius of curvature of the fillet surface is substantially constant along the leading edge. The ratio of the radius of curvature of the rounded surface at the trailing edge end to the radius of curvature of the rounded surface at the center of the same trailing edge is 2 to 6.

9. The wiper assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nozzle (6) has a tubular configuration defining a channel for conveying air, debris, and liquid particles from the inlet orifice (7) to the conveying section (8), in, The delivery section (8) of the nozzle (6) extends above the top side (2b) of the frame (2) and is configured to receive or connect to the suction hose.

10. The wiper assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a baffle (11) coupled to the frame (2) and extending laterally to the nozzle (6), the baffle (11) at least partially obscuring the inlet hole (7) of the suction port (5). in, The baffle (11) has a symmetrical configuration with respect to the plane of symmetry. The baffle (11) has an outer wall that is continuous with the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2). The baffle (11) defines the leading edge (9) of the inlet hole (7). The conveying section (8) defines the end of the nozzle (6), and the baffle (11) has a thickness measured perpendicular to the bottom side (2a) of the frame (2), which is less than the distance between the suction port (5) and the conveying section (8) of the nozzle (6), optionally at least 10 times smaller, and more optionally the thickness of the baffle is 0.5 mm to 5 mm.

11. The wiper assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (2) has an arcuate shape, extends laterally between a first end and a second end (12, 13), and intersects the travel direction (D) of the wiper assembly. in, The frame (2) includes a front side (14) and a rear side (15) spaced apart from each other at the suction port (5), wherein the distance between the front side and the rear side (14, 15) of the frame (2) gradually narrows as it extends from the suction port (5) toward a first end and a second end (12, 13) of the frame (2). The front and rear sides (14, 15) of the frame (2) are joined at both the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame (2). The front and rear sides (14, 15) of the frame (2) extend along their respective curved trajectories.

12. The wiper assembly according to the preceding claim, wherein the front wiper blade and the rear wiper blade (3a, 3b) have corresponding arcuate shapes. in, The front and rear scrapers (3a, 3b) extend along the entire length of the frame (2) and are located between the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame (2). The distance between the front and rear scrapers (3a, 3b) is greatest at the suction port (5) and decreases continuously as it extends from the suction port (5) toward the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame (2), thereby causing the elongated liquid collection volume (4) to gradually narrow as it moves from the suction port toward the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame. Optionally, the maximum distance between the front and rear scraper blades (3a, 3b) is between 5 mm and 30 mm. The first and second scrapers (3a, 3b) are spaced apart from each other at the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame (2), defining corresponding channels (16) for allowing liquid to be introduced into the elongated liquid collection volume (4).

13. The wiper assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the front wiper blade (3a) includes at least one front notch (17) at the interface in contact with the floor for allowing liquid to be directed behind the front wiper blade (3a) into the elongated liquid collection volume (4). in, The front notch (17) is parallel to the plane of symmetry of the wiper assembly and aligned with the suction port (5). The front scraper (3a) includes two or more side notches (17a, 17b) that are respectively inserted between the front notch (17) and the first and second ends (12, 13) of the frame (2); the side notches (17a, 17b) define corresponding channels for allowing liquid to be introduced into the elongated liquid collection volume (4).

14. Floor cleaning machine, including: - Support chassis (102), - At least one cleaning unit (101) coupled to the support chassis (102) and configured to clean the floor surface, the cleaning unit comprising: o One or more cleaning pads (103) or cleaning rollers, o At least one collection tank (104) for receiving waste liquid, o A suction tube (105) in fluid communication with the collection box (104), - A wiper assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, coupled to a support chassis (102) of the cleaning machine, wherein the nozzle (6) of the wiper assembly (1) is in fluid communication with the collection tank (104) via the suction pipe (105).

15. The floor cleaning machine according to the preceding claim, wherein the squeegee assembly (1) is coupled to the lower part of the support chassis (102) of the cleaning machine and is located behind the cleaning unit (101) relative to the traveling direction (D) of the cleaning machine. in, The front scraper (3a) faces the cleaning unit and is located in front of the rear scraper (3b) relative to the direction of travel (D) of the cleaning machine.

16. The floor cleaning machine according to any one of the preceding two claims, wherein the suction tube (105) includes a connector (107) which is liquid-tightly coupled and optionally releasably coupled to the delivery section (8) of the nozzle (6) of the wiper assembly (1).

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