Surface cleaning device

Abstract

A surface cleaning apparatus (100) is provided comprising a cleaner head (102), a handle portion (104), and a connecting portion (106) extending between the handle portion and the cleaner head so as to enable a user gripping the handle portion to move the cleaner head over a surface (108) to be cleaned. The surface cleaning apparatus further comprises a cleaning liquid tank (110) for containing a cleaning liquid for delivery to the surface to be cleaned, and a container (124) for containing a surface treatment agent, wherein the container is provided in addition to the cleaning liquid tank. At least a portion of the container is arranged in the handle portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a surface cleaning device, which includes: a cleaning head; a handle; and a connecting portion extending between the handle and the cleaning head, so that a user holding the handle can move the cleaning head on a surface to be cleaned, such as a floor. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, mops and buckets are used to clean floors. However, an increasing number of surface cleaning devices are attempting to replace these tools. Both manually operated and electrically powered surface cleaning devices have been proposed.

[0003] Such surface cleaning equipment tends to include a cleaning liquid tank, in other words, a reservoir that holds 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 becomes empty, it can be refilled with more premixed solution. Surface cleaning devices exist with reservoirs that can be filled with water by the user, who can add their own surface treatment agent to the water in the reservoir. In the latter case, difficulties arise in controlling the ratio of water to surface treatment agent to produce a cleaning liquid with an appropriate concentration of surface treatment agent.

[0005] Using cleaning liquids with excessively high concentrations of surface treatment agents may hinder / damage surface cleaning equipment or result in unsatisfactory cleaning results. This problem can be mitigated by instructing the user to first add a limited amount of surface treatment agent to a measuring cup with a defined volume, and then transfer that amount of surface treatment agent to a storage container. However, this extra step is often inconvenient for the user.

[0006] This becomes even more inconvenient when the concentration of the surface treatment agent is relatively high, because the user must add a relatively small amount of surface treatment agent into the reservoir very precisely, which puts a burden on the user. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This invention is defined by the claims.

[0008] According to an example of one aspect of the invention, a surface cleaning device is provided, comprising: a cleaning head; a handle portion; a connecting portion extending between the handle portion and the cleaning head, such that a user gripping the handle portion can move the cleaning head on a surface to be cleaned; a cleaning liquid tank for containing cleaning liquid for delivery to the surface to be cleaned; and a container for containing a surface treatment agent, the container being additionally provided on top of the cleaning liquid tank, at least a portion of the container being disposed in the handle portion, wherein the surface cleaning device can be configured to employ: a cleaning liquid delivery configuration in which cleaning liquid can be delivered from the cleaning liquid tank toward the surface to be cleaned, while the surface treatment agent cannot be delivered from the container into the cleaning liquid tank; and a filling configuration in which the surface treatment agent can be received from the container into the cleaning liquid tank, while liquid cannot be delivered from the cleaning liquid tank toward the surface to be cleaned.

[0009] Since no liquid (e.g., water or cleaning liquid) can be delivered from the cleaning liquid tank when a filler construction is used, the desired / specified concentration of the surface treatment agent in the cleaning liquid tank can be accurately achieved.

[0010] Furthermore, since the surface treatment agent cannot be transferred from the container to the cleaning liquid tank when a cleaning liquid delivery structure is used, it is possible to prevent an unexpected increase in the concentration of the surface treatment agent in the cleaning liquid tank during the cleaning process. This reduces the risk of, for example, excessive foaming of the cleaning liquid on the surface to be cleaned.

[0011] By arranging at least a portion of the container in the handle, the surface treatment agent can be stored in a convenient location where it is unlikely to be misplaced or lost by the user. Regarding convenience, arranging at least a portion of the container in the handle reduces the risk of user annoyance caused by the surface treatment agent being stored far from the surface cleaning equipment in a ready-to-use state and / or refilled during use (e.g., the bottle containing the surface treatment agent is on the downstairs kitchen counter, while quick refilling requires an upstairs bathroom).

[0012] Moreover, the arrangement of at least a portion of the container in the handle provides a space-efficient way to store surface treatment agents in the surface cleaning device. Note that the handle provides a storage location that minimizes performance compromises of the surface cleaning device.

[0013] Since the handle portion is typically not used as a storage location, by arranging at least a portion of the container in the handle portion, other parts of the surface cleaning device can be used to store cleaning fluid, and in some embodiments, to store dirty fluid removed from the surface to be cleaned. Thus, by arranging at least a portion of the container in the handle portion, which is otherwise unused, it helps to minimize usage time. In other words, this usage time is the time between refilling the cleaning fluid tank, and in some embodiments, it is the time between emptying the dirty fluid collection tank.

[0014] In some embodiments, the surface cleaning equipment includes a delivery assembly, such as a pump mechanism, for delivering a surface treatment agent from a container to a cleaning liquid tank. This delivery assembly facilitates the safe and efficient delivery of the surface treatment agent to the cleaning liquid tank, particularly when the surface treatment agent (e.g., detergent) has a relatively high concentration. The delivery assembly helps overcome problems associated with spillage of the surface treatment agent that may occur due to manual measurement and / or pouring the surface treatment agent into the cleaning liquid tank.

[0015] In some embodiments, the delivery assembly is configured to deliver a quantitative dose of surface treatment agent (e.g., from a container to a cleaning liquid tank). Thus, the delivery assembly assists the user in preparing a cleaning liquid having a specified concentration of surface treatment agent.

[0016] In particular, precise metering of surface treatment agents can help reduce the risk of overdosing (e.g., detergents), which can lead to suboptimal operation of surface cleaning equipment, such as excessive foaming.

[0017] Additionally, it can reduce the risk of insufficient surface treatment agent filling, which can also lead to less than ideal operation of surface cleaning equipment.

[0018] Therefore, by using a delivery assembly to quantitatively dispense surface treatment agents, the risk of surface cleaning equipment exhibiting measurably unsatisfactory operation in the form of inadequate stain removal, streaking, or uneven gloss can be reduced. Similarly, quantitative dispensing of surface treatment agents can reduce the risk of users perceiving unsatisfactory performance (e.g., indicated by odor), and more generally, reduce the risk of users distrusting the benefits provided by the surface treatment agents.

[0019] Note that the term “quantitative dosage” as used herein can refer to the delivery of a consistent or accurate amount (e.g., volume) of surface treatment agent in each operation of the delivery assembly.

[0020] In some embodiments, when a cleaning liquid delivery configuration is employed, the cleaning liquid tank is mounted in the surface cleaning equipment and can be removed from the surface cleaning equipment, for example, to enable a refill configuration. In this embodiment, removing the cleaning liquid tank assists the user in emptying or (re)filling the cleaning liquid tank.

[0021] In some embodiments, when the cleaning liquid tank is detached from the surface cleaning equipment, it is configured to engage with a delivery assembly to receive surface treatment agent from the container in a filling configuration. This provides a convenient and intuitive way to deliver surface treatment agent into the cleaning liquid tank.

[0022] For example, after the cleaning liquid tank is disassembled, it can receive water, for example, from a tap in a user's home. The cleaning liquid tank can then be engaged with a delivery assembly, and a surface treatment agent, such as a metered dose, can be delivered into the cleaning liquid tank. Subsequently, the cleaning liquid tank, containing the cleaning liquid including the surface treatment agent, can be (re)installed in the surface cleaning equipment.

[0023] The delivery assembly can have any suitable design. In some embodiments, the delivery assembly includes an outlet element arranged to protrude from a portion (e.g., an end) of the handle portion, and the cleaning liquid tank, when detached from the surface cleaning equipment, is configured to engage with the outlet element to receive surface treatment agent from the container.

[0024] In an embodiment where the outlet element is arranged to protrude from the end of the handle, the cleaning liquid tank can engage with the outlet element by descending toward the end of the handle.

[0025] In some embodiments, the surface cleaning equipment may include a sealing device arranged to retain liquid within the cleaning liquid tank when it engages with a delivery assembly (e.g., its outlet element).

[0026] Thus, the surface treatment agent can be added to a liquid (e.g., water) that has already been received in the cleaning liquid tank without causing the liquid to leak out of the cleaning liquid tank.

[0027] In some embodiments, the surface cleaning device includes a cover for covering the outlet element when it is not engaged with the cleaning liquid tank. When the outlet element is not engaged with the cleaning liquid tank, the cover helps to minimize the risk of accidental delivery of the surface treatment agent.

[0028] The outlet element can deliver a surface treatment agent, such as a metered dose of surface treatment agent, to a cleaning liquid tank by being actuated (e.g., pushed).

[0029] The actuation of the outlet element can be achieved by, for example, pushing the cleaning liquid tank against the outlet element when it is engaged with the outlet element.

[0030] For example, the cleaning liquid tank can be pushed downwards, for instance, further along the downward direction in which the cleaning liquid tank was initially moved to engage with the outlet element, thereby actuating the outlet element.

[0031] In some embodiments, the exit element is configured (e.g., biased) to return to the starting position after the exit element is actuated.

[0032] Returning to the starting position allows the outlet element to be conveniently prepared for subsequent delivery of surface treatment agents, such as for subsequent delivery of a quantitative dose of surface treatment agent.

[0033] In some embodiments, the cleaning liquid tank includes a valve, which, for example, allows the cleaning liquid to be delivered to the surface to be cleaned when a cleaning liquid delivery configuration is employed. In embodiments where the cleaning liquid tank can be removed from the surface cleaning equipment, the valve prevents leakage of the cleaning liquid tank when it is removed from the surface cleaning equipment.

[0034] When the cleaning liquid tank is installed in a surface cleaning device, the connector element included in the surface cleaning device can engage with a valve to establish a fluid connection between the interior of the cleaning liquid tank and the cleaning liquid delivery system of the surface cleaning device.

[0035] In embodiments where the cleaning liquid tank includes a valve, the valve can be configured, for example, in a filling configuration, to allow a surface treatment agent to enter the cleaning liquid tank. Thus, the valve can allow the surface treatment agent to be delivered into the cleaning liquid tank, and in a cleaning liquid delivery configuration, allow the cleaning liquid to pass through the valve and be delivered toward the surface to be cleaned.

[0036] The valve can be configured, for example, to engage with an outlet element so that the cleaning liquid tank can receive the surface treatment agent via the valve when it is removed from the surface cleaning equipment.

[0037] The container can be arranged in the handle portion in any suitable manner (at least partially). In some embodiments, the container is inserted into or can be inserted into the handle portion via an opening arranged at the end of the handle portion.

[0038] In some embodiments, the container is removably inserted into the handle portion, for example, through an opening disposed at the end of the handle portion.

[0039] In this embodiment, the user can remove the container after it has been emptied and insert the (re)filled container into the handle.

[0040] Alternatively or additionally, the handle portion, and optionally, at least a portion of the connection portion includes an observation portion arranged to allow the user to visually assess the amount of surface treatment agent remaining in the container.

[0041] The observation section may include, for example, an optically transmissive material or an opening defined in the handle section (optionally, in at least a portion of the connecting section).

[0042] In some embodiments, the connecting portion is narrower than the handle portion at least in the portion adjacent to the connecting portion. Thus, the handle portion can be identified as the thicker portion adjacent to the end of the narrower portion of the connecting portion.

[0043] Because the handle portion is thicker than (at least) the adjacent portion of the connecting portion, the handle portion can be gripped and manipulated relatively easily by the user. Moreover, this thicker handle portion can, for example, receive containers with a larger diameter for surface treatment agents.

[0044] In some embodiments, the entire container is arranged in the handle portion, for example, entirely within the thicker handle portion adjacent to the narrower portion of the connector.

[0045] In other embodiments, the container may protrude from the handle portion into the connector portion, for example, from the thicker handle portion into the adjacent narrower portion of the connector portion.

[0046] Surface cleaning equipment can be of any suitable type. For example, surface cleaning equipment may include wet vacuum cleaners, such as stick-type or upright-type wet vacuum cleaners, or wet mopping devices. Specifically, surface cleaning equipment includes wet mopping devices. Note that due to user expectations of a compact design for wet mopping devices, space for their internal components may be limited; therefore, a space-saving installation of the surface treatment agent container in the handle may be particularly advantageous in wet mopping devices.

[0047] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the embodiments described below, and will be illustrated with reference to the embodiments described below. Attached Figure Description

[0048] To better understand the invention and to more clearly illustrate its implementability, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings by way of example only, in which:

[0049] Figure 1 A surface cleaning device based on an example is schematically depicted;

[0050] Figure 2 Show Figure 1The surface cleaning equipment shown is shown, but the cleaning liquid tank is removed from the surface cleaning equipment;

[0051] Figures 3 to 7 The diagram illustrates the engagement of the disassembled cleaning liquid tank with the delivery assembly, the delivery of the surface treatment agent into the cleaning liquid tank via the delivery assembly, and the separation of the disassembled cleaning liquid tank from the delivery assembly; and

[0052] Figure 8 and Figure 9 The illustration shows the reinstallation of a cleaning liquid tank onto a surface cleaning device, wherein the cleaning liquid tank contains a surface treatment agent. Detailed Implementation

[0053] The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] It should be understood that the detailed descriptions and specific examples are for illustrative purposes only, indicating exemplary embodiments of the devices, systems, and methods, 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 schematic only and are not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to indicate the same or similar parts.

[0055] A surface cleaning device is provided, comprising: a cleaning head; a handle; and a connecting portion extending between the handle and the cleaning head, such that a user gripping the handle can move the cleaning head on a surface to be cleaned. The surface cleaning device further includes: a cleaning liquid tank for containing a cleaning liquid for delivery to the surface to be cleaned; and a container for containing a surface treatment agent, wherein the container is additionally provided in addition to the cleaning liquid tank. At least a portion of the container is disposed in the handle.

[0056] Figure 1 A surface cleaning device 100 according to an example is schematically depicted. The surface cleaning device 100 can be of any suitable type. For example, the surface cleaning device 100 can be a wet vacuum cleaner, such as a stick or upright wet vacuum cleaner, or a wet mopping device. Specifically, the surface cleaning device 100 is a wet mopping device.

[0057] The surface cleaning device 100 includes: a cleaning head 102; a handle portion 104; and a connecting portion 106 extending between the handle portion 104 and the cleaning head 102, such that a user holding the handle portion 104 can move the cleaning head 102 on a surface 108 to be cleaned, such as a floor.

[0058] In some embodiments, the connecting portion 106 is pivotally connected to the cleaner head 102. This assists a user gripping the handle portion 104 in manipulating the cleaner head 102 on the surface 108 to be cleaned.

[0059] The cleaner head 102 may be equipped with a cleaning material (not visible) for contacting the surface 108 to be cleaned. The cleaning material is capable of applying cleaning liquid to the surface 108 to be cleaned.

[0060] Cleaning materials may include, for example, fabric cleaning materials, such as woven or knitted fabric cleaning materials.

[0061] The cleaning material can be detachably attached to the cleaner head 102, for example. Thus, the cleaning material can be removed to allow for cleaning or replacement after use.

[0062] In some embodiments, the surface cleaning device 100 includes a negative pressure generator (not visible), such as a pump, which is arranged to apply suction to a cleaning material, and the cleaning material includes pores through which dirty liquid on the surface 108 to be cleaned can be drawn at least partially due to the suction applied by the negative pressure generator.

[0063] In this embodiment, the surface cleaning device 100 may further include a dirty liquid collection tank (not visible), wherein a negative pressure generator is arranged to draw dirty liquid through the pores of the cleaning material and into the dirty liquid collection tank.

[0064] The dirt inlet structure can be defined in the cleaner head 102, wherein the dirt inlet structure is arranged to apply suction generated by a negative pressure generator to the cleaning material.

[0065] The liquid pickup area of ​​the cleaning material can be defined, for example, by sealing the cleaning material around the dirty inlet structure.

[0066] The sealing attachment of the cleaning material around the dirty inlet structure can help maintain negative pressure in the dirty inlet structure, regardless of whether a negative pressure generator applies flow.

[0067] The cleaner head 102 can have any suitable design and can be formed from a variety of materials. In some embodiments, the cleaner head 102 includes a support base for supporting the cleaning material.

[0068] The support base can be considered, for example, as the body of the cleaner head 102.

[0069] The support base can be, for example, a flexible support base. Such a flexible support base can help the cleaner head 102 conform to the contours of the surface 108 to be cleaned. Alternatively or additionally, the flexibility of the flexible support base can assist in cleaning the cleaner head 102 after use, such as involving wringing out liquid from the cleaner head 102 and / or cleaning the cleaner head 102 in the user's cleaning machine.

[0070] In embodiments where the support substrate is a flexible support substrate, the support substrate can be formed of any suitable flexible material. In some embodiments, the flexible material forming the flexible support substrate includes polymeric materials and / or elastomeric materials.

[0071] In embodiments where the cleaner head 102 includes a support base, such as a flexible support base, the dirt inlet structure may be recessed into and / or imprinted on the bottom surface of the support base, which faces the surface 108 to be cleaned during use.

[0072] The connecting portion 106 may include an elongated component, such as a rod, extending between the cleaner head 102 and the handle portion 104. When the surface cleaning device 100 is used to clean a floor, the connecting portion 106 allows the user to grip the handle portion 104 while he / she is standing and the cleaner head 102 is positioned on the floor.

[0073] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the connecting portion 106 is narrower than the handle portion 104 at least in the portion adjacent to the connecting portion 106. Therefore, the handle portion 104 can be identified as the thicker portion adjacent to the end of the narrower portion of the connecting portion 106.

[0074] Because the handle portion 104 is thicker than (at least) the adjacent portion of the connecting portion 106, the handle portion 104 can be gripped and manipulated relatively easily by the user.

[0075] The handle portion 104 and the connecting portion 106 can be made of any suitable material. In some embodiments, one or both of the handle portion 104 and the connecting portion 106 comprise metal or metal alloy and / or rigid plastic.

[0076] More generally, the cleaning liquid for application to the surface 108 to be cleaned is stored in a cleaning liquid tank 110 included in the surface cleaning apparatus 100. The surface cleaning apparatus 100 may also include a cleaning liquid delivery system 112, which is arranged to deliver the cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid tank 110 toward the surface 108 to be cleaned, for example, via one or more cleaning liquid outlets included in the cleaner head 102.

[0077] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1As shown, the cleaning liquid tank 110 includes a valve 114 through which cleaning liquid can be delivered toward the surface 108 to be cleaned. In this embodiment, as... Figure 2 As best shown, the cleaning liquid delivery system 112 may include a connector element 116 arranged to engage with a valve 114 to establish a fluid connection between the interior of the cleaning liquid tank 110 and the cleaning liquid delivery system 112.

[0078] In some embodiments, valve 114 is a two-way valve 114 that allows cleaning liquid to flow out of cleaning liquid tank 110 through the valve and also allows fluid to flow into cleaning liquid tank 110 through the valve.

[0079] The importance of valve 114 in allowing fluid to pass through and enter the clean liquid tank 110 will be explained in more detail below.

[0080] Valve 114 can be positioned in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, valve 114, for example in the form of a two-way valve 114, is arranged at the base 118 of the cleaning liquid tank 110.

[0081] The arrangement of valve 114 at base 118 facilitates the flow of cleaning fluid from cleaning fluid tank 110 with the aid of gravity. As further described below, this base arrangement of valve 114 also facilitates the inflow of fluid into cleaning fluid tank 110.

[0082] Valve 114 can have any suitable design and can be formed from any suitable material. In some embodiments, valve 114 is formed from a metal or metal alloy such as brass. Note that brass is durable and corrosion-resistant, and therefore a suitable material for valve 114.

[0083] The cleaning liquid container 110 can be formed from any suitable robust material capable of holding liquid within it. In some embodiments, the cleaning liquid container 110 is formed from a plastic material and / or an optically translucent material, allowing the user to visually assess the amount of cleaning liquid remaining in the container 110.

[0084] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 2 The cleaning liquid tank 110 can be removed from the surface cleaning device 100. In this embodiment, removing the cleaning liquid tank 110 can assist the user in emptying or (re)filling the cleaning liquid tank 110.

[0085] Note that the disassembly of the cleaning liquid tank 110 is performed during... Figure 2 The middle part is represented by arrow 120.

[0086] When the cleaning fluid includes water 122, refer to the following: Figure 2 and Figure 3 The removal of the cleaning liquid tank 110 allows the user to (re)fill the cleaning liquid tank 110 with water 122. When the cleaning liquid tank 110 is removed from the surface cleaning device 100, a surface treatment agent can be delivered into the cleaning liquid tank 110, for example, to mix the surface treatment agent with the water 122 already contained in the cleaning liquid tank 110.

[0087] Note that the surface treatment agent may include any suitable type of reagent used to treat, for example, the surface 108 to be cleaned. Specifically, detergents are included in the surface treatment agent.

[0088] In an embodiment where the cleaning liquid tank 110 includes a valve 114 and the cleaning liquid tank 110 can be removed from the surface cleaning device 100, the valve 114 can prevent liquid leakage from the cleaning liquid tank 110 when the cleaning liquid tank 110 is removed from the surface cleaning device 100.

[0089] When the cleaning liquid tank 110 is installed in the surface cleaning equipment 100 (see again) Figure 1 Connector element 116 can engage with valve 114 to establish a fluid connection between the interior of cleaning liquid tank 110 and cleaning liquid delivery system 112.

[0090] Reference Figures 1 to 3 In addition to the cleaning liquid tank 110, the surface cleaning device 100 also includes a container 124 for containing a surface treatment agent. At least a portion of the container 124 is arranged in the handle portion 104.

[0091] By arranging at least a portion of the container 124 in the handle portion 104, the surface treatment agent can be stored in a convenient location where it is unlikely to be misplaced or lost by the user. Regarding convenience, arranging at least a portion of the container 124 in the handle portion 104 reduces the risk of user annoyance caused by the surface treatment agent being stored far from where the surface cleaning device 100 is ready for use and / or needs to be refilled during use (e.g., the bottle containing the surface treatment agent is on the downstairs kitchen counter, while quick refilling requires an upstairs bathroom).

[0092] Furthermore, the arrangement of at least a portion of the container 124 in the handle portion 104 provides a space-efficient way to store the surface treatment agent in the surface cleaning device 100. Note that the handle portion 104 can provide a storage location that minimizes performance compromises of the surface cleaning device 100.

[0093] Since the handle portion 104 is not typically used as a storage location, by arranging at least a portion of the container 124 in the handle portion 104, other portions of the surface cleaning device 100 can be used to store cleaning liquid, and in some embodiments, to store dirty liquid removed from the surface 108 to be cleaned. Thus, by arranging at least a portion of the container 124 in the handle portion 104, which is otherwise unused, it helps to minimize usage time. In other words, this usage time is the time between refilling the cleaning liquid tank 110, and in some embodiments, it is the time between emptying the dirty liquid collection tank.

[0094] The container 124 can be arranged in the handle portion 104 in any suitable manner (at least in part). For example, the handle portion 104, and optionally, the connection portion 106 includes a hollow tube, such as a hollow metal tube, in which the container 124 can be accommodated.

[0095] Mounting elements (e.g., threaded or bayonet connections) may be included in the handle portion 104 and the container 124 for securing (e.g., releasably securing) the container 124 to the handle portion 104.

[0096] In some embodiments, the container 124 is inserted into or can be inserted into the handle portion 104 via an opening disposed at the end of the handle portion 104. For example, the container 124 can be removably inserted into the handle portion 104, for example, via an opening disposed at the end of the handle portion 104.

[0097] In this embodiment, the user can remove the container 124 after it has been emptied and insert the (re)filled container 124 into the handle portion 104.

[0098] Alternatively or additionally, the handle portion 104, and optionally, at least a portion of the connection portion 106, includes an observation portion arranged to allow the user to visually assess the amount of surface treatment agent remaining in the container 124.

[0099] The observation section may include, for example, an optically transmissive material or an opening defined in the handle portion 104 (optionally, in at least a portion of the connecting portion 106).

[0100] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the entire container 124 is arranged in the handle portion 104, for example, it is completely arranged in the thicker handle portion 104 adjacent to the narrower portion of the connecting portion 106.

[0101] In other embodiments (not shown), the container 124 may protrude from the handle portion 104 into the connecting portion 106, for example, from the thicker handle portion 104 into an adjacent narrower portion of the connecting portion 106.

[0102] More generally, the surface cleaning device 100 can be configured to employ a cleaning liquid delivery structure (such as...) Figure 1 and Figure 9 As shown), in the cleaning liquid delivery configuration, the cleaning liquid can be delivered from the cleaning liquid tank 110 toward the surface to be cleaned 108, while the surface treatment agent cannot be delivered from the container 124 to the cleaning liquid tank 110.

[0103] Because the surface treatment agent cannot be transferred from container 124 to cleaning liquid tank 110 when a cleaning liquid delivery structure is used, it is possible to prevent an unexpected increase in the concentration of the surface treatment agent in cleaning liquid tank 110 during the cleaning process. This reduces the risk of, for example, excessive foaming of the cleaning liquid on the surface 108 to be cleaned.

[0104] Figures 4 to 6 A filling configuration is schematically depicted in which a surface treatment agent can be received from container 124 into a cleaning liquid tank 110, while liquid (e.g., water 122 or cleaning liquid) cannot be delivered from the cleaning liquid tank 110 toward the surface 108 to be cleaned.

[0105] Since no liquid (e.g., water 122 or cleaning liquid) can be delivered from the cleaning liquid tank 110 when a filling configuration is used, the desired / specified concentration of the surface treatment agent in the cleaning liquid tank 110 can be accurately achieved.

[0106] In some embodiments, the following references Figures 3 to 7 The surface cleaning device 100 includes a delivery assembly 126, such as a pump mechanism, for delivering a surface treatment agent from a container 124 to a cleaning liquid tank 110. This delivery assembly 126 facilitates the safe and efficient delivery of the surface treatment agent to the cleaning liquid tank 110, particularly when the surface treatment agent (e.g., detergent) has a relatively high concentration. The delivery assembly 126 helps overcome problems associated with surface treatment agent spillage that may occur due to manual measurement and / or pouring of the surface treatment agent into the cleaning liquid tank 110.

[0107] In some embodiments, the delivery assembly 126 is configured to transfer a metered dose of surface treatment agent from container 124 into cleaning liquid tank 110. Thus, the delivery assembly 126 assists the user in preparing a cleaning liquid having a specified concentration of surface treatment agent.

[0108] In particular, precise metering of the surface treatment agent can help reduce the risk of overdosing the surface treatment agent (e.g., detergent), which may lead to suboptimal operation of the surface cleaning equipment 100, such as excessive foaming.

[0109] Additionally, it reduces the risk of insufficient surface treatment agent filling, which could also lead to suboptimal operation of the surface cleaning equipment 100.

[0110] Therefore, by using the delivery assembly 126 to quantitatively dispense the surface treatment agent, the risk of the surface cleaning equipment 100 exhibiting measurable and unsatisfactory operation in the form of insufficient stain removal, streaking, or uneven gloss can be reduced. Similarly, quantitative dispensing of the surface treatment agent can reduce the risk of users perceiving unsatisfactory performance (e.g., indicated by odor), and more generally, can reduce the risk of users distrusting the benefits provided by the surface treatment agent.

[0111] In some embodiments, refer to Figures 3 to 7 When the cleaning liquid tank 110 is detached from the surface cleaning equipment 100, it is configured to engage with the delivery assembly 126 to receive surface treatment agent from the container 124. This provides a convenient and intuitive way to deliver the surface treatment agent into the cleaning liquid tank 110.

[0112] For example, such as Figure 2 As shown, after disassembling the cleaning liquid tank 110, as Figure 3 As shown, the cleaning liquid container 110 can receive water 122, for example, from a tap in a user's home. Then, as... Figure 3 As shown by arrow 130, the cleaning liquid tank 110 can engage with the delivery assembly 126, and as indicated... Figures 4 to 6 As shown, a surface treatment agent, such as a metered dose of surface treatment agent, can be delivered into the cleaning liquid tank 110. Subsequently, as... Figure 8 As indicated by arrow 134, the cleaning liquid tank 110 containing cleaning liquid 132 including surface treatment agent can be (re)installed in the surface cleaning equipment 100.

[0113] Note that in Figure 9 The image shows a surface cleaning device 100 with a cleaning liquid tank 110 (re)installed in place. The cleaning liquid tank 110 contains a cleaning liquid 132 including a surface treatment agent.

[0114] The conveying assembly 126 can have any suitable design. In some embodiments, such as Figures 3 to 7As shown, the delivery assembly 126 includes an outlet element 136 arranged to protrude from a portion (e.g., an end) of the handle portion 104, and the cleaning liquid tank 110, when removed from the surface cleaning device 100, is configured to engage with the outlet element 136 to receive surface treatment agent from the container 124.

[0115] In embodiments where the outlet element 136 is arranged to protrude from the end of the handle portion 104, the cleaning liquid container 110 can engage with the outlet element 136 by descending toward the end of the handle portion 104 (see [link]). Figure 3 (The direction indicated by the middle arrow 130).

[0116] Although not visible in the accompanying drawings, the surface cleaning apparatus 100 may include a sealing device arranged to retain liquid (e.g., water 122) within the cleaning liquid tank 110 when engaged with the delivery assembly 126 (e.g., its outlet element 136). Thus, a surface treatment agent can be added to the liquid (e.g., water 122) already received within the cleaning liquid tank 110 without causing leakage of liquid from the cleaning liquid tank 110.

[0117] In embodiments where the cleaning liquid tank 110 includes a valve 114, the valve 114 can be configured to allow a surface treatment agent to enter the cleaning liquid tank 110. Thus, the valve 114 can allow the surface treatment agent to be delivered to the cleaning liquid tank 110 in a filling configuration, and allow the cleaning liquid to be delivered through the valve toward the surface 108 to be cleaned in a cleaning liquid delivery configuration.

[0118] In some embodiments, valve 114 is configured to engage with outlet element 136 such that cleaning liquid tank 110 can receive surface treatment agent via valve 114 when it is removed from surface cleaning equipment 100.

[0119] Note that the interface between valve 114 and delivery assembly 126 (e.g., its outlet element 136) can be sealed once formed to minimize or prevent liquid leakage at the interface.

[0120] Therefore, once a sealed interface is established, leakage of water 122 and surface treatment agents (e.g., liquid detergents) can be minimized or prevented.

[0121] exist Figure 3 In the middle, valve 114 is closed, such as Figure 4 As shown, when outlet element 136 is engaged with valve 114, valve 114 is opened.

[0122] The outlet element 136 can be actuated (e.g., driven along) Figure 4The surface treatment agent (e.g., a quantitative dose of surface treatment agent) is delivered in the direction indicated by the middle arrow 138 to the cleaning liquid tank 110.

[0123] The outlet element 136 can be actuated by, for example, by pushing the outlet element 136 against the liquid tank 110 when it is engaged with the outlet element 136.

[0124] For example, the cleaning liquid tank 110 can be pushed downwards, for example, further along the downward direction 130 from which the cleaning liquid tank 110 initially moved to engage with the outlet element 136 (see [link]). Figure 4 (Arrow 138 in the image).

[0125] The outlet element 136 can be configured (e.g., biased) to return to the starting position after the outlet element 136 is actuated. The return to the starting position is... Figure 5 The middle part is indicated by arrow 140.

[0126] Figure 6 Arrow 142 indicates the direction in which the cleaning liquid tank 110 separates from the delivery assembly 126, and in this particular example, indicates the direction in which the cleaning liquid tank 110 separates from the outlet element 136. The cleaning liquid tank 110 can be separated from the delivery assembly 126, for example, by being lifted away from the end of the handle portion 104 (see also...). Figure 7 ).

[0127] Valve 114 can be closed before the seal at the sealed interface between the clean liquid tank 110 and the delivery assembly 126 is breached.

[0128] This minimizes or prevents liquids (e.g., liquid 132 containing surface treatment agents) from spilling from the cleaning liquid tank 110.

[0129] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 The surface cleaning device 100 includes a cover 144 for covering the outlet element 136 when it is not engaged with the cleaning liquid tank 110. When the outlet element 136 is not engaged with the cleaning liquid tank 110, the cover 144 helps to minimize the risk of accidental delivery of the surface treatment agent.

[0130] like Figure 2 As indicated by arrow 146, the cap 144 can be removed to expose the outlet element 136 before engagement with the cleaning liquid tank 110. Figure 8 As indicated by arrow 148, after the surface treatment agent is delivered to the cleaning liquid tank 110, the cap 144 can be repositioned on the outlet element 136.

[0131] By studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art who practice the claimed invention can understand and implement variations of the disclosed embodiments. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality.

[0132] The fact that certain measures are described in different dependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0133] If the term “suitable” is used in the claims or description, note that the term “suitable” is intended to be equivalent to the term “constructed as”.

[0134] No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A surface cleaning device (100), comprising: Cleaner head (102); handle part (104); A connecting portion (106) extends between the handle portion and the cleaner head so that a user gripping the handle portion can move the cleaner head on the surface to be cleaned (108); A cleaning liquid tank (110) for containing cleaning liquid for delivery to the surface to be cleaned; and A container (124) for holding a surface treatment agent, said container being an additional provision to the cleaning liquid tank, at least a portion of said container being disposed in the handle portion, wherein the surface cleaning device can be configured to employ: A cleaning liquid delivery structure in which the cleaning liquid can be delivered from the cleaning liquid tank toward the surface to be cleaned, while the surface treatment agent cannot be delivered from the container to the cleaning liquid tank; as well as A filling configuration in which the surface treatment agent can be received from the container into the cleaning liquid tank, while the liquid cannot be delivered from the cleaning liquid tank toward the surface to be cleaned.

2. The surface cleaning apparatus (100) according to claim 1, comprising a conveying assembly (126) for conveying the surface treatment agent from the container (124) to the cleaning liquid tank (110).

3. The surface cleaning device (100) according to claim 2, wherein, The delivery assembly (126) is configured to deliver a quantitative dose of the surface treatment agent.

4. The surface cleaning apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, When the cleaning liquid delivery configuration is used, the cleaning liquid tank (110) is installed in the surface cleaning equipment and can be removed from the surface cleaning equipment to enable the use of the filling configuration.

5. The surface cleaning apparatus (100) according to claim 4, which is dependent on claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, When the cleaning liquid tank (110) is removed from the surface cleaning equipment, it is configured to engage with the delivery assembly (126) to receive the surface treatment agent from the container (124) when the filling configuration is employed.

6. The surface cleaning device (100) according to claim 5, wherein, The delivery assembly (126) includes an outlet element (136) arranged to protrude from a portion of the handle portion (104), and wherein the cleaning liquid tank (110), when detached from the surface cleaning equipment, is configured to engage with the outlet element to receive the surface treatment agent from the container (124).

7. The surface cleaning apparatus (100) according to claim 6, comprising a sealing device arranged to retain liquid within the cleaning liquid tank when the cleaning liquid tank (110) is engaged with the outlet element (136).

8. The surface cleaning device (100) according to claim 6 or claim 7, comprising a cover (144) for covering the outlet element (136) when it is not engaged with the cleaning liquid tank (110).

9. The surface cleaning apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The cleaning liquid tank (110) includes a valve (114) through which the cleaning liquid can be delivered toward the surface to be cleaned (108) when the cleaning liquid delivery configuration is employed.

10. The surface cleaning device (100) according to claim 9, wherein, The valve (114) is also configured to allow the surface treatment agent to enter the cleaning liquid tank (110) when the filling configuration is employed.

11. The surface cleaning apparatus (100) according to claim 10, which is dependent on any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein, The valve (114) is configured to engage with the outlet element (136) so that the cleaning liquid tank (110) can receive the surface treatment agent via the valve when it is removed from the surface cleaning equipment.

12. The surface cleaning apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The container (124) is inserted into or can be inserted into the handle portion via an opening located at the end of the handle portion (104).

13. The surface cleaning apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The handle portion (104), and optionally, at least a portion of the connection portion (106) includes an observation portion arranged to allow a user to visually assess the amount of the surface treatment agent remaining in the container (124).

14. The surface cleaning apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The connecting portion (106) is narrower than the handle portion at least in the portion adjacent to the handle portion (104).

15. The surface cleaning apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The surface cleaning equipment includes a wet mopping device.

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