Extraction cleaner

Abstract

The utility model provides an extraction cleaner. The extraction cleaner includes a base, an upright body pivotably coupled to the base, a supply tank removably coupled to the upright body, and a recovery tank removably coupled to the upright body. The base may include a non-removable door and a removable suction nozzle. At least one fluid dispensing nozzle may be provided on the door. The door may be pivotally coupled to the base to access the agitator. The cleaner may include an automatic spray configuration. The cleaner may include a support on the upright portion for the recovery tank. The cleaner may include an additive canister received in a receptacle of the supply canister. The recovery tank may include a float and / or an airflow management configuration. The cleaner may include a cleaning tool and a suction switching valve and / or a fluid switching valve. The cleaner may include a mixing valve for supplying fluid to a fluid switching valve.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application No. 63 / 440,250, filed on January 20, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to surface treating equipment and, more particularly, to extraction cleaners. Background Art

[0004] The surface treatment device is configured to be maneuvered over a surface to be cleaned (e.g., a floor). While maneuvering over the surface to be cleaned, the surface treatment device may collect at least a portion of any debris deposited on the surface to be cleaned. An example of a surface treatment device is an extraction cleaner. An extraction cleaner is configured to apply a liquid to the surface to be cleaned and to extract at least a portion of the applied liquid from the surface to be cleaned. Utility Model Content

[0005] On the one hand, the present disclosure provides an extraction cleaner, which includes a base; an upright body, which is pivotally connected to the base; an agitator, which is disposed in the agitator cavity and is configured to agitate the surface to be cleaned; a supply tank, which is used to store the cleaning fluid; and a recovery tank, which is configured to receive the recovery fluid extracted from the surface to be cleaned by the suction force established at the suction inlet. The base includes: a frame; a door, which is non-removably connected to the frame, the door including a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface of the door defining at least a portion of an agitator chamber; at least one fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle is connected to the door and exposed at the bottom surface of the door, the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle being configured to directly or indirectly dispense a cleaning fluid onto a surface to be cleaned; a suction nozzle, which is removably connected to the base and has a front wall, a rear wall, and a suction nozzle passage defined between the front wall and the rear wall, the rear wall being positioned in a relative relationship to the top surface of the door, the suction nozzle passage having a suction inlet and a suction outlet, the suction inlet being configured to be placed adjacent to the surface to be cleaned, and the suction outlet being configured to be removably connected to an internal suction duct of the base to at least partially define a base airflow path extending from the suction inlet through the base.

[0006] On the other hand, the present disclosure provides an extraction cleaner, which includes: a base; an upright body, the upright body being pivotally connected to the base; at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle being connected to the base, the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle being configured to directly or indirectly dispense a first fluid onto a surface to be cleaned; a flexible hose; a cleaning tool, the cleaning tool being connected to the flexible hose; at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle being connected to the cleaning tool, the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle being configured to directly or indirectly dispense a second fluid onto a target surface; a supply tank, the supply tank being used to store a first cleaning fluid; and an additive tank, the additive tank being used to store a second cleaning fluid; and at least one fluid switching valve, the at least one fluid switching valve being fluidly connected to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle and the at least one cleaning fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one fluid switching valve having a base supply state and a cleaning tool supply state, in the base supply state, the first cleaning fluid is fluidly connected to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, and in the cleaning tool supply state, the second cleaning fluid is fluidly connected to the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0007] On the other hand, the present disclosure provides an extraction cleaner, which includes: a base; an upright body, the upright body being pivotally connected to the base; at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle being connected to the base, the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle being configured to directly or indirectly dispense a first fluid onto a surface to be cleaned; a base suction inlet, the base suction inlet being disposed at the bottom of the base and configured to be positioned adjacent to the surface to be cleaned; a flexible hose; a cleaning tool, the cleaning tool being connected to the flexible hose; at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle a nozzle, the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle being coupled to the cleaning tool, the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle being configured to dispense a second fluid directly or indirectly onto a target surface; a cleaning tool suction inlet, the cleaning tool suction inlet being disposed at a bottom of the cleaning tool and being configured to be positioned adjacent to the target surface; a recovery tank, the recovery tank being configured to receive a recovery fluid extracted from the surface to be cleaned by a suction force established at the base suction inlet or a recovery fluid extracted from the target surface by a suction force established at the cleaning tool suction inlet; a suction switching valve, the suction switching valve The invention comprises: a base inlet port, the base inlet port being fluidly connected to the base suction inlet, a cleaning tool inlet port, the cleaning tool inlet port being fluidly connected to the cleaning tool suction inlet, and an outlet port, the outlet port being fluidly connected to the recovery tank, the suction switching valve having a base suction state and a cleaning tool suction state, in the base suction state, the outlet port being fluidly connected to the base inlet port to receive the recovered fluid from the surface to be cleaned into the recovery tank through the base suction inlet, in the cleaning tool suction state, the outlet port being fluidly connected to the cleaning tool suction inlet to receive the recovered fluid from the target surface into the recovery tank through the cleaning tool inlet port; a supply tank, the supply tank being used to store a first cleaning fluid; an additive tank, the additive tank being used to store a second cleaning fluid; and at least one fluid switching valve, the at least one fluid switching valve having a base supply state and a cleaning tool supply state, in the base supply state, the first cleaning fluid being fluidly connected to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, in the cleaning tool supply state, the second cleaning fluid being fluidly connected to the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0008] On the other hand, the present disclosure provides an extraction cleaner, which includes: a cleaner body, the cleaner body including a pump and a suction motor; a supply pipeline and an air flow path, the supply pipeline is fluidly connected to the pump, and the air flow path is fluidly connected to the suction motor; a supply tank, the supply tank is configured to be removably connected to the cleaner body and is configured to be fluidly connected to the supply line, the supply tank contains a relatively alkaline first water-based cleaning solution; an additive tank, the additive tank is configured to be fluidly connected to the supply line, the additive tank contains a relatively acidic second water-based oxidizing solution; and a recovery tank, the recovery tank is configured to be removably connected to the cleaner body and is configured to be fluidly connected to the air flow path. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] By reading the following detailed description and the drawings described herein, the features of the utility model embodiments will be better understood. The drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component shown in each figure may be represented by the same number. For clarity, not every component may be marked in each drawing.

[0010] Figure 1 One example of an extraction cleaner consistent with the present disclosure is schematically illustrated.

[0011] Figure 2 is a front perspective view of another example extraction cleaner consistent with the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A front perspective and partially exploded view of the base of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0013] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A front perspective view of the base of an extraction cleaner shown in , with the suction nozzle removed.

[0014] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A front perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of an extraction cleaner is shown in FIG.

[0015] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A bottom perspective view of the suction nozzle of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0016] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of a portion of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0017] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a portion of an extraction cleaner shown in , showing the connector end of the suction nozzle.

[0018] Fig. 9 Is set in Figure 2 A top perspective view of the connector body and bias spring at the connector end of the suction nozzle of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0019] Fig.10 yes Figure 2 A top perspective view of the door of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0020] Fig.11 yes Figure 2 A top perspective view of the base of an extraction cleaner shown in FIG. 1 with the cover on the door removed.

[0021] Fig.12 yes Figure 2 A bottom perspective view of the door of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0022] Fig.13 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the fluid supply and base supply line connections of an extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0023] Fig.14 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the base supply line connections of an extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0024] Fig.15 yes Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of a portion of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0025] Fig.16 yes Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of a portion of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0026] Fig.17 yes Figure 2 A front cross-sectional view of a portion of an extraction cleaner is shown in FIG.

[0027] Fig.18 is a perspective, partially exploded view of a portion of another embodiment of an extraction cleaner consistent with the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig.19 is a perspective view of a portion of another embodiment of an extraction cleaner consistent with the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig. 20 yes Fig.19 A perspective, partially exploded view of a portion of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0030] Fig.21 is a perspective view of a portion of another embodiment of an extraction cleaner consistent with the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a portion of another embodiment of an extraction cleaner consistent with the present disclosure.

[0032] Fig.23 is a perspective view of a wicking configuration consistent with the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig.24 yes Figure 2 A front perspective view of a portion of an extraction cleaner is shown in FIG.

[0034] Fig.25 yes Figure 2 A front perspective view of the automatic spray detector of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0035] Fig.26 yes Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of a portion of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0036] Fig. 27 are side cross-sectional and diagrammatic views of a portion of another embodiment of an extraction cleaner consistent with the present disclosure.

[0037] Fig.28 yes Figure 2 A front perspective view of the supply tank and additive tank of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0038] Fig.29 yes Figure 2 A rear cross-sectional view of a portion of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0039] Fig.30 yes Figure 2 A front perspective view of a portion of an extraction cleaner is shown in FIG.

[0040] Fig.31 yes Figure 2 A bottom perspective view of the recovery tank of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0041] Fig.32 yes Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of a portion of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0042] Fig.33 yes Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of the recovery tank of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0043] Fig.34 yes Fig.33 A front cross-sectional view of a recovery tank is shown in FIG.

[0044] Fig.35 yes Fig.33 A rear perspective view of the float of the recovery tank shown in FIG.

[0045] Fig.36 yes Fig.33 A side cross-sectional view of a portion of a recovery tank is shown in FIG.

[0046] Fig.37 yes Figure 2 A front perspective view of the suction switching valve of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0047] Fig.38 yes Fig.37 0026] A side perspective view of the housing of the suction switching valve is shown in FIG.

[0048] Fig.39 yes Fig.37 Front perspective view of the rotor of the suction switching valve shown in .

[0049] Fig.40 yes Figure 2 A side view of a portion of an extraction cleaner shown in FIG. 1 with the handle of the rotor in a downward orientation.

[0050] Fig.41 yes Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of a portion of an extraction cleaner shown in FIG. 1 with the handle of the rotor in a downward orientation.

[0051] Fig.42 yes Figure 2 A rear perspective view of a portion of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0052] Fig.43 yes Figure 2 A rear perspective view of a portion of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0053] Fig.44 yes Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of a portion of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0054] Fig.45 yes Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a fluid switching valve of an extraction cleaner shown in , and schematically illustrates the operation of the suction switching valve.

[0055] Fig.46 yes Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a fluid switching valve of an extraction cleaner shown in , and schematically illustrates the operation of the suction switching valve.

[0056] Fig.47 yes Figure 2 A top perspective view of the mixing valve of the extraction cleaner shown in FIG.

[0057] Fig.48 yes Fig.47 A side cross-sectional view of a mixing valve is shown in FIG.

[0058] Fig.49 yes Fig.47 A top cross-sectional view of a mixing valve is shown in FIG.

[0059] Fig.50 yes Fig.47 Exploded view of the mixing valve shown in .

[0060] Fig.51 is a block diagram illustrating a portion of an example extraction cleaner consistent with the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] The present disclosure generally relates to extraction cleaners and cleaning compositions for use with the extraction cleaners. In some embodiments, the extraction cleaner includes a body; a supply tank removably coupled to the body; an additive tank removably coupled to the body; a recovery tank removably coupled to the body; a fluid pump fluidly coupled to the supply tank and the additive tank; a suction motor fluidly coupled to the recovery tank; and a base, the base including a fluid applicator fluidly coupled to the pump; and a suction inlet fluidly coupled to the recovery tank. The supply tank is configured to store a first fluid, and the additive tank is configured to store a second fluid, the first fluid and the second fluid may be different fluids. The pump is configured to push one or more of the first fluid and / or the second fluid through the fluid applicator of the base so that the first fluid and / or the second fluid is applied to a surface to be cleaned (e.g., a floor). The suction motor is configured to draw at least a portion of the applied first fluid and / or second fluid into the suction inlet of the base to be deposited in the recovery tank for later disposal.

[0062] In some embodiments, the extraction cleaner may further include a flexible hose configured to couple the cleaning tool fluid to a recovery tank. The flexible hose may include a first end coupled (e.g., removably or non-removably) to the main body and a second end coupled (e.g., removably or non-removably) to the cleaning tool so that the cleaning tool can be moved independently of the main body of the extraction cleaner to perform a target cleaning operation, e.g., cleaning a specific location, a small area that the base cannot enter, a pet, etc. The pump may be configured to push liquid from a supply tank and / or an additive tank through the cleaning tool to the target surface. The suction motor is configured to push debris and fluid from the target surface into the cleaning tool and into the recovery tank for later disposal.

[0063] Figure 1is a schematic diagram of one example of an extraction cleaner 100 consistent with the present disclosure. As shown, extraction cleaner 100 includes an upright body 102; a base 104 pivotally coupled to upright body 102; a flexible hose 103 having a cleaning tool 105 coupled to an end thereof; a supply tank 106; an additive tank 107; and a recovery tank 108. Extraction cleaner 100 may be configured to operate using one or more batteries and / or mains power (e.g., by being electrically coupled to a household electrical outlet).

[0064] Fluid may be selectively dispensed from the supply tank 106 and / or the additive tank 107 through one or more nozzles 114 (shown in phantom) coupled to the base 104 and / or one or more nozzles 115 coupled to the cleaning tool 105. The user may selectively fluidly couple the recovery tank 108 to a base airflow path 119 through the base 104 or a cleaning tool airflow path 129 through the cleaning tool 105. Thus, the user may selectively clean a surface to be cleaned 110 (e.g., carpet or floor) using fluid dispensing and suction at the base 104 or a target surface (e.g., a specific location, a small area that the base cannot access, a pet, etc.) using fluid dispensing and suction at the cleaning tool 105.

[0065] In the illustrated example, supply tank 106 is configured to receive a first cleaning fluid, such as water, detergent, soap, fragrance, and / or other cleaning fluids. Additive tank 107 is configured to receive a second cleaning fluid, such as water, detergent, soap, and / or a cleaning fluid composition, which is intended to clean a specific type of dirt on the cleaning surface. The second cleaning fluid may be different from the first cleaning fluid.

[0066] In some cases, the extraction cleaner 100 can be configured to deliver only the first cleaning fluid, only the second cleaning fluid and / or the combination of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid to the base 104 and / or the cleaning tool 105. For example, the user of the extraction cleaner 100 can be able to select between delivering only the first cleaning fluid, only the second cleaning fluid or the combination of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid from the base 104 and / or the cleaning tool 105 to the surface to be cleaned 110. For example, the extraction cleaner 100 can be configured to deliver only the combination of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid from the base 104 and / or the cleaning tool 105 to the surface to be cleaned 110. In this example, the extraction cleaner 100 can be configured to deliver the combination of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid until at least one of the first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid is exhausted. Alternatively, in this example, when one of the first cleaning fluid or the second cleaning fluid is exhausted, the other of the first cleaning fluid or the second cleaning fluid can continue to be delivered to the surface to be cleaned 110 until it is exhausted.

[0067] In certain embodiments, the enhancement fluid can be used in combination with the base cleaning fluid. In certain embodiments, the second cleaning fluid can include the enhancement fluid mixed with the base cleaning fluid. Additionally or alternatively, the second cleaning fluid can include the enhancement fluid, and the first cleaning fluid can include the base cleaning fluid. This method can be used to avoid the reaction between the enhancement fluid and the base cleaning fluid and the decomposition of the enhancement fluid produced until they are mixed by a mixing valve. For example, the user can fill the supply tank with water to a specified level (for example, indicated by the fill line on the supply tank), and then a predetermined amount of the base cleaning fluid is added to the water in the supply tank.

[0068] The enhancement fluid may include, for example, an oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide. The base cleaning fluid may include, for example, water, detergent, soap, fragrance and / or other cleaning fluids. The pH (acidity and alkalinity) of the enhancement fluid may be less than the pH of the base cleaning fluid to prevent the enhancement fluid from decomposing in the second cleaning fluid. In certain embodiments, for example, the pH of the enhancement fluid may be less than or equal to about 4.5, and the pH of the base cleaning fluid may be greater than or equal to about 9. When cleaning with cleaning tool 105 (for example, to clean a severely soiled target area), using the enhancement fluid in the first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid may be particularly useful.

[0069] In the illustrated example, a supply tank line 109 (shown in phantom) fluidly couples the supply tank 106 to a mixing valve 111 (shown in phantom) to deliver a first cleaning fluid as an input to the mixing valve 111. An additive tank line 113 (shown in phantom) fluidly couples the additive tank 107 to the mixing valve 111 to deliver a second cleaning fluid as an input to the mixing valve 111. The mixing valve 111 is configured to provide one or more of the first cleaning fluid, the second cleaning fluid, and / or an adjustable mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid to one or more supply lines 112 (shown in phantom), and / or may be configured to allow a user to selectively provide only one of the first cleaning fluid or the second cleaning fluid to the supply line 112. Thus, the fluid in the supply line 112 may include the first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid. In embodiments where the enhancement fluid is used in combination with a base cleaning fluid, the enhancement fluid and the base cleaning fluid can be separated in the respective additive tanks and supply tanks to prevent any reaction therebetween, and then mixed, for example, via a mixing valve or in an accessory such as a T-connector, to induce a chemical reaction between the enhancement fluid and the base fluid to improve the cleanliness and / or stability of the mixed enhancement fluid and base fluid.

[0070] Supply line 112 is fluidly coupled to fluid switching valve 123 (shown in phantom). Fluid switching valve 123 can be selectively configured to be in a base supply state and a cleaning tool supply state. The state of fluid switching valve 123 can be selected by a mechanical and / or electrical switch or by direct physical manipulation of fluid switching valve 123 or another component of extraction cleaner 100 (such as suction switching valve 127 described herein). In some embodiments, for example, Figure 1 As shown, when the upright body 102 is vertically upright relative to the base 104, the fluid switching valve 123 can be automatically placed in the cleaning tool supply state by a mechanical and / or electrical switch, and when the upright body 102 is tilted relative to the base 104 and is not in the vertical upright position, the fluid switching valve can be automatically placed in the base supply state. In addition or alternatively, the fluid switching valve 123 can be placed in the base supply state or the cleaning tool supply state by a user input to the control panel 141.

[0071] When the fluid switching valve 123 is in the base supply state, one or more of the fluid supply lines 112 are fluidly coupled to one or more fluid dispensing nozzles 114 of the base 104 through a base supply line 117 (shown in phantom). Therefore, fluid from one or more of the supply lines 112 can be directly and / or indirectly dispensed onto the surface to be cleaned 110 through the one or more fluid dispensing nozzles 114. In some embodiments, the one or more nozzles 114 can be disposed within an agitator cavity 116 (shown in phantom) defined within the base 104. Additionally or alternatively, the nozzles 114 can be disposed on an outer surface of the base 104.

[0072] When the fluid switching valve 123 is in the cleaning tool supply state, one or more fluid supply lines in the fluid supply line 112 are fluidically coupled to one or more fluid dispensing nozzles 115 of the cleaning tool 105 through the cleaning tool supply line 121 (shown in dotted lines). Therefore, the fluid from the supply line 112 can be directly and / or indirectly distributed on the target surface through the one or more fluid dispensing nozzles 115. For example, the one or more nozzles 115 can be placed in the cleaning tool 105 and / or can be placed on the outer surface of the cleaning tool 105. In some embodiments, a pump 125 (shown in dotted lines) can be coupled to the supply line 112 so that the pump 125 pushes the fluid through the fluid switching valve 123 to reach the nozzle 114 or the nozzle 115.

[0073] The recovery tank 108 is fluidly coupled to the suction motor 118 (shown in phantom), the recovery conduit 120, and the suction switching valve 127. The suction switching valve 127 can be selectively configured to be in a base suction state or a cleaning tool suction state. The state of the suction switching valve 127 can be selected by a mechanical and / or electrical switch or by direct physical manipulation of the suction switching valve 127 or other components of the extraction cleaner 100. In some embodiments, as Figure 1 As shown, when the upright body 102 is vertically upright relative to the base 104, the suction switching valve 127 can be automatically placed in the cleaning tool suction state by a mechanical and / or electrical switch, and when the upright body 102 is tilted relative to the base 104 and is not in the vertical upright position, the suction switching valve can be automatically placed in the base suction state. In addition or alternatively, the suction switching valve 127 can be placed in the base suction state or the cleaning tool suction state by a user input to the control panel 141.

[0074] When the suction switching valve 127 is in the base suction state, the recovery duct 120 and the recovery tank 108 are fluidly coupled to the base airflow path 119 (shown in dotted lines) through the switching valve 127. The base airflow path 119 extends from the suction switching valve 127 to the suction inlet 131 at the bottom and the front of the base 104. When the suction switching valve 127 is in the base suction state, the suction motor 118 can therefore push the fluid deposited on the surface to be cleaned 110 into the suction inlet 131, through the base airflow path 119 and into the recovery tank 108.

[0075] When the suction switching valve 127 is in the cleaning tool suction state, the recovery conduit 120 and the recovery tank 108 are fluidly coupled to the cleaning tool airflow path 129 through the switching valve 127. The cleaning tool airflow path 129 extends from the cleaning tool suction inlet 135 at the bottom of the cleaning tool 105 through the flexible hose 103 to the suction switching valve 127. When the suction switching valve 127 is in the cleaning tool suction state, the suction motor 118 can establish a suction airflow to push the fluid deposited on the target surface into the cleaning tool suction inlet 135, through the cleaning tool airflow path 129 and into the recovery tank 108.

[0076] In some embodiments, the recovery tank 108 may include a debris separator 122 (shown in phantom) configured to separate solid debris from liquid within the recovery tank 108. The debris separator 122 may be further configured to prevent liquid from flowing from the recovery tank 108 into the suction motor 118.

[0077] The agitator chamber 116 of the base 104 can include an agitator 124 configured to engage with the surface to be cleaned 110. In some embodiments, the agitator 124 can be a longitudinal cylindrical body configured to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the body. The agitator 124 can be driven by a motor (not shown) to rotate around the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the agitator 124 can be configured to vibrate relative to the base 104. The agitator 124 includes any combination of flaps, bristles and / or microfibers. In some embodiments, the agitator 124 can be a non-absorbent agitator.

[0078] The extraction cleaner 100 may also include a controller 145 (shown in dashed lines). The controller 145 may be coupled to receive user input from the control panel 141 and / or receive input from sensors and / or switches in the extraction cleaner 100, and may be configured to provide control outputs for controlling components of the extraction cleaner 100 in response to the inputs. For example, the controller 145 may be configured to control the state of the fluid switching valve 123 and / or the suction switching valve 127 in response to user input and / or in response to a sensor or switch that is responsive to the position of the upright body 102 relative to the base 104. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 145 may be configured to control the operation of the mixing valve 111, the suction motor 118, the pump 125, and / or a motor (not shown) for driving an agitator. In view of this disclosure, many configurations of the controller 145 will be apparent.

[0079] The upright body 102 may have a handle 137 coupled to its end for a user to grasp, and the base 104 may include one or more wheels 139 coupled thereto and positioned to engage the surface to be cleaned 110. The wheels 139 allow the base 104 to be manipulated along the surface to be cleaned 110. In order to clean using suction and fluid delivery at the base 104, the user may configure the suction switching valve 127 to be in a base suction state and the fluid switching valve 123 to be in a base supply state. The user may grasp the handle 137 and push and / or pull the base 104 along the surface to be cleaned 110. The fluid may be dispensed from the nozzle 114 and, for example, directly and / or indirectly dispensed onto the surface to be cleaned 110 during forward and / or backward movement of the base 104, and the surface to be cleaned 110 with the fluid thereon may be agitated by the agitator 124. At least a portion of the fluid may be recovered from the surface to be cleaned 110 by operation of the suction motor 118 to establish suction for drawing the fluid into the base airflow path 119 and into the recovery tank 108 .

[0080] In order to use suction and fluid delivery to clean at the cleaning tool 105, the user can configure the suction switching valve 127 to be in the cleaning tool suction state, and the fluid switching valve 123 is configured to be in the cleaning tool supply state. The user can grip the cleaning tool 105 and manipulate the cleaning tool 105 above the target surface. Fluid can be distributed from the nozzle 115 and, for example, directly and / or indirectly distributed to the target in response to the trigger on the user operating the cleaning tool. At least a portion of the fluid can be recovered from the surface to be cleaned 110 by the operation of the suction motor 118, to establish the suction force for drawing fluid into the cleaning tool airflow path 129 and drawing into the recovery tank 108.

[0081] Supply tank 106 and / or additive tank 107 can be configured to provide fabric / cleaning composition jointly and / or separately, to remove stains and dirt from substrates (surface to be cleaned 110) such as carpets and fabrics. Fabric / cleaning composition is preferably formed by a combination of water-based cleaning solution and water-based oxidizing solution before being applied to the substrate. In some embodiments, the water-based cleaning solution can be a first cleaning fluid contained in supply tank 106, for example, a base cleaning fluid, and the water-based oxidizing solution can be a second cleaning fluid contained in additive tank 107, for example, an enhancement fluid. It is expected that two separate solutions and mixing as needed are used to maintain storage stability and optimize cleaning effectiveness, while allowing people to achieve a determined and effective active component level at a desired pH on a selected surface.

[0082] The first aqueous cleaning solution preferably contains a mixture of ingredients in a relatively alkaline solution (pH>7.0), and the second aqueous oxidizing solution contains a mixture of ingredients in a relatively acidic solution (pH<7.0). The first aqueous cleaning solution herein includes an aqueous solution, which, as noted, is a relatively alkaline solution (pH>7.0). More preferably, the first aqueous cleaning solution has a pH in the range of 8.5 to 10.0 (including all values ​​and increments therein). Accordingly, the pH is 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, 8.9, 9.0, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9 or 10.0. A particularly preferred pH range is 8.5 to 9.5, or even more preferably 9.0 to 9.5. The second aqueous oxidizing solution herein also includes an aqueous solution, which, as noted, is a relatively acidic solution (pH<7.0). More preferably, the pH of the oxidizing solution is less than or equal to 5.0, and preferably falls within the range of 3.0 to 5.0, including all individual values ​​and increments therein. Accordingly, the pH is 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9 or 5.0.

[0083] The second aqueous oxidizing solution contains a peroxy compound, i.e., a peroxide anion O 2 2- or OO single bond compounds, such as H 2 O 2 When the first aqueous solution and the second aqueous solution are combined, and at H 2 O 2 Particularly preferably, the peroxide then provided and activated by the carbonate component to then engage with a given substrate for cleaning falls within the range of 0.20 wt.% to 0.70 wt.%, including all values ​​and increments therein, such as 0.20 wt.%, 0.30 wt.%, 0.40 wt.%, 0.50 wt.%, 0.60 wt.% and 0.70 wt.%. The H that is relied upon for treating substrates to remove stains and soils 2 O 2 A particularly preferred range of the weight percentage of the compound is in the range of 0.30 wt.% to 0.40 wt.%.

[0084] It is therefore contemplated that the peroxide compounds herein include water-soluble peroxide agents comprising hydrogen peroxide and an inorganic alkali metal peroxide in an acidic solution at a pH < 7.0. Thus, such peroxide compounds include sodium peroxide (Na 2 O 2 ) and urea hydrogen peroxide (CH 6N 2 O 3 ) and melamine hydroperoxide (C 3 H 8 N 6 O 2 ) and other organic peroxides. Also included are alkyl hydroperoxides (RO-OH) in which R is an alkyl group, such as methyl hydroperoxide (CH 3 OOH), tert-butyl hydroperoxide ((CH 3 ) 3 CO-OH), or an aryl hydroperoxide in which R is an aryl group, such as benzoyl peroxide (C 14 H 10 O 4 ). The peroxygen compounds herein may also be used preferably with or without peroxidases (enzymes catalyzing the decomposition of peroxides).

[0085] The first aqueous cleaning solution preferably contains the following ingredients: (1) a nonionic surfactant, preferably an alcohol ethoxylate, which refers to a nonionic surfactant containing a hydrophobic alkyl chain connected to a hydrophilic ethylene oxide chain via an ether bond, which is available under the trade name Ecosurf TM EH-9 is available from Dow (which is ethoxylated propoxylated 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, CAS 64366-70-7) and is also available as Ecosurf TM EH-6 is available from Dow Chemical Company (CAS 64366-70-7), and alkyl polyglycosides (APGs), which refer to the reaction products of fatty alcohols and sugars and are characterized by a sugar unit and one or more hydrophobic alkyl chains, such as decyl glucoside available from Brenntag (CAS 68515-73-1); (2) carbonate anions (CO 3 2- ) source, such as a water-soluble alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate; (3) a metal chelator, such as ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid (EDDS), more preferably biodegradable (S,S)ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid (EDDS), CAS 178949-82-1; (4) an organic alkyl alcohol, preferably ethanol; (5) a dispersant polymer, a preferred example of which is Acusol 505N, which is an acrylic polymer, CAS 60472-42-6; (6) a metal hydroxide, such as sodium hydroxide, to provide a desired pH>7; (7) a free radical scavenger; (8) a fragrance and / or odor control or other aesthetic agent; and (9) water.

[0086] As for the free radical scavenger, preferably, it is selected from aliphatic amino acids, preferably glycine (C 2H 5 NO 2 ), CAS 56-40-6. Other free radical scavengers are expected to include sarcosine (N-methylglycine), lysine, serine, glutamic acid and mixtures thereof. It is also expected that the free radical scavengers herein are selected from 2-methoxyethylamine, glucosamine, morpholine, piperidine, ethylamine and 3-amino-1-propanol and mixtures thereof. It is expected that such free radical scavengers can capture free radicals (such as hydroxyl radicals (HO ·)) to reduce or eliminate the damage that such free radicals may cause to a given substrate fabric.

[0087] The second aqueous oxidizing solution preferably contains the following ingredients: (1) a peroxygen compound, such as hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 (2) nonionic surfactants, preferably alcohol ethoxylates, which refer to nonionic surfactants containing a hydrophobic alkyl chain connected to a hydrophilic ethylene oxide chain via an ether bond, which can be obtained under the trade name Ecosurf TM EH-9 is available from Dow Chemical Company (which is ethoxylated propoxylated 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, CAS 64366-70-7) and is also available from Ecosurf TM EH-6 is obtained from Dow Chemical Company (CAS 64366-70-7); (3) anionic surfactant, a preferred example of which is sodium octyl sulfonate, CAS 13419-61-9; (4) dispersant polymer, a preferred example of which is Acusol 460N, a carboxylated polyelectrolyte copolymer based on maleic anhydride / olefin copolymer; (5) a multifunctional aliphatic organic acid to provide the desired pH <7.0, preferably citric acid, CAS 77-92-9; (6) a defoamer, preferably XFO-64, which is a silicone polymer; and (6) water.

[0088] In the above, it is noted that the carbonate anion (CO 3 2 ) source and metal chelating agent are limited to the first aqueous cleaning solution. In addition, the source of peroxygen compound is limited to the second aqueous oxidizing solution. Therefore, it should be understood that the other ingredients identified (e.g., nonionic surfactants, organic alkyl alcohols, free radical scavengers, fragrances and / or odor control agents, anionic surfactants, dispersant polymers) can be derived from the first aqueous cleaning solution and / or the second aqueous oxidizing solution.

[0089] Reference is now made to Table 1, which identifies the preferred formulations for the two-part fabric and cleaning compositions herein, all in weight percent. Table 1 also serves as a basis for describing the preferred method of preparing the two-part solutions for placement into the two tanks of the cleaning equipment and the resulting molar concentration levels of the ingredients after mixing of the two solutions applied to a given substrate.

[0090] Table 1

[0091] Optimal formula

[0092]

[0093]

[0094] The preferred charging and mixing of the water-based cleaning solution and the water-based oxidizing solution is carried out as follows. The preferred formula for the water-based cleaning solution (column I) is poured into the first tank (e.g., supply tank 106) on the cleaning equipment, and then preferably 1 part of the cleaning solution is diluted with 20 parts of water. The preferred formula for the water-based oxidizing solution (column II) is poured into the second tank (e.g., additive tank 107) on the cleaning device. Column III shows the preferred weight percentages of the active components of the oxidizing solution. Column IV shows the preferred weight percentages of the cleaning solution components after a 20:1 water dilution. The water-based cleaning solution diluted with water at 20:1 is then combined with the water-based oxidizing solution at a ratio of 10 parts of diluted water-based cleaning solution (column IV) to 1 part of water-based oxidizing solution.

[0095] Column V shows the weight percentages of the components that are then present in a preferred mixed solution and applied to a given surface for cleaning. In Column V, the five (5) components used for cleaning include water, a peroxygen compound, a metal chelator, a free radical scavenger (preferably shown as glycine), and a carbonate anion. In addition, it should be noted that the pH of the combined and mixed aqueous cleaning solution and aqueous oxidizing solution is preferably > 9.0, more preferably > The pH range of 9.0 to 10.0 includes all individual values ​​and increments therein, such as 9.0, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9 and 10.0. A particularly preferred pH range for the combined aqueous cleaning solution and aqueous oxidizing solution is 9.4 to 9.6.

[0096] In addition, as can be seen from Table 1, carbonate anions (CO 2 ) present in the mixed solution are preferably supplied by metal bicarbonate (such as sodium bicarbonate). 3 2-) is 0.14 wt.%. However, in the broad context of the present disclosure, the level of carbonate anions in the mixed solution is preferably 0.10 wt.% to 0.40 wt.%, including all individual values ​​and increments therein, such as 0.15 wt.%, 0.20 wt.%, 0.25 wt.%, 0.30 wt.%, 0.35 wt.% or 0.40 wt.%. A particularly preferred range of carbonate anions in the mixed solution is 0.14 wt.% to 0.25 wt.%. In addition, while sodium bicarbonate in the aqueous cleaning solution preferably provides a source of carbonate anions, it is contemplated herein that the carbonate anion source comprises other alkali metal carbonates (such as sodium carbonate (NaCO 3 )) and other sodium bicarbonates (such as potassium bicarbonate).

[0097] It should be noted that metal chelators available in aqueous cleaning solutions and then present in the mixed solution applied to a given substrate are understood herein to be any compound that binds to metal ions, in particular transition metal ions such as iron and copper. In addition, metal chelators are preferably divalent metal ions of water hardness such as magnesium (Mg 2+ ) and calcium (Ca 2+ )) has a relatively low binding affinity and a relatively high binding affinity for transition metal ions (such as iron and copper). This is preferably provided by EDDS. The metal chelation affinity mentioned refers to the stability constant (also called formation constant or binding constant) that reflects the strength of the interaction between the agents that come together to form a complex.

[0098] Therefore, the preferred property of the metal chelator herein is to bind to Cu in the preferred pH range of 9–10. 2+ Has a relatively high binding constant and is closely related to the water hardness ion Ca 2+ and Mg 2+ It has a relatively low binding constant. It is also expected that the metal chelator is easily biodegradable to prevent accumulation in the environment. The following Table 2 is the calculated logK (K is the binding constant) value of the preferred metal chelator EDDS at pH 7.0:

[0099] Table 2

[0100] Binding constant of EDDS

[0101] Metal ions <![CDATA[LogK EDDS 4- ]]> <![CDATA[Cu 2+ ]]> 18.45 <![CDATA[Ca 2+ ]]> 4.72 <![CDATA[Mg 2+ ]]> 6.09

[0102] Although the metal chelator EDDS is preferably shown in Table 1 as being present in the mixed solution at a level of 0.09 wt.%, it is contemplated herein that the level of the metal chelator may fall within the range of 0.05 wt.% to 0.15 wt.%, including all individual values ​​and increments therein. A particularly preferred range is 0.08 wt.% to 0.13 wt.%. It is contemplated that the preferred metal chelators herein, as alluded to above, will more actively bind to the metal ions of copper and iron present in tap water, and are therefore relatively more effective in neutralizing such metals in tap water, which otherwise might catalyze the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide to form hydroxyl (OH) radicals and result in reduced bleaching activity and fabric damage.

[0103] As also shown in Table 1, preferred levels of free radical scavengers in the mixed solution for engagement with a substrate for cleaning herein are from 0.02 wt.% to 0.80 wt.%, including all individual values ​​and increments therein.

[0104] Table 3 below presents the molar concentration ranges of the identified components (peroxygen compound, metal chelator, carbonate anion, and free radical scavenger) in the aqueous solution when the cleaning solution and the enhancement solution are mixed and applied to a substrate for cleaning, wherein the pH of the mixture is > 9.0 to 10.0. Molarity refers to the number of moles of a component per liter of solution.

[0105] Table 3

[0106] Molar concentration of key components applied to substrate for cleaning

[0107] Components Molar concentration Peroxides <![CDATA[5.0x10 -2 Up to 2.1x10 -1 ]]> Metal Chelators <![CDATA[1.70x10 -3 Up to 5.2x10 -3 ]]> <![CDATA[Carbonate anion (CO 3 2- )]]> <![CDATA[1x10 -2 Up to 5.0x10 -2 ]]> Free Radical Scavengers <![CDATA[2.0x10 -3 Up to 1.1x10 -1 ]]>

[0108] The molar concentrations of the four key components after mixing as shown in Table 2 can be easily calculated from the weight percentages of the components identified in the mixed aqueous cleaning solution and aqueous oxidizing solution, examples of which are provided in Table 1. The formula for converting weight percentage concentration to molar concentration is: Molar concentration = ((weight percentage) * 10) / (molecular weight of 100% active material).

[0109] Thus, the present disclosure provides compositions, methods and kits for cleaning carpet or fabric, preferably utilizing two separate solutions and mixing as needed to provide effective levels of the identified components at a desired pH on a selected surface to optimize cleaning performance.

[0110] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an extraction cleaner 100a, which may be Figure 11. The illustrated example extraction cleaner 100a includes an upright body 102a, a base 104a pivotably coupled to the upright body 102a, a flexible hose 103a, a cleaning tool 105a having a cleaning tool suction inlet 135a coupled to an end of the flexible hose 103a, a supply tank 106a, an additive tank 107a, a recovery tank 108a, wheels 139a (139a) for moving the base 104a along the surface 110 to be cleaned, and a plurality of cleaning tools 105a and 139b. Figure 1 ) and handle 137a.

[0111] The recovery tank 108a is removably coupled to the upright body 102a and is fluidly coupled to the base 104a and the cleaning tool 105a via the suction switching valve 127a so that the suction motor 118a ( Figure 5 ) can establish suction so that debris and / or liquid are sucked into the recovery tank 108a through the base 104a or the cleaning tool 105a. The cleaning fluid can be provided to the nozzle on the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a from the supply tank 106a and / or the additive tank 107a through the fluid switching valve 123a. The upright body 102a can include a control panel 141a. The control panel 141a can be configured to receive one or more inputs from the user. For example, the control panel 141a can be configured to receive inputs corresponding to the cleaning behavior (e.g., fluid flow increase / decrease, pulse / modulation fluid flow, fluid and / or suction to the control of the base 104a or the cleaning tool 105a, suction increase / decrease, etc.).

[0112] The base 104a includes a frame 201, a suction nozzle 202 and a door 204. In the example shown, the suction nozzle 202 can be removed from the base 104a, and the door 204 cannot be removed from the base 104a. In other examples, the suction nozzle 202 and / or the door 204 can be removed from the base 104a, or the suction nozzle 202 and / or the door 204 cannot be removed from the base 104a. As used herein, when used with respect to the relationship between a first component or an assembly and a second component or an assembly, the term "removable" means that the first component or an assembly can be completely separated from the second component or an assembly by a user without using a tool, and without destroying the first component or an assembly or the second component or an assembly, so that the first component or an assembly can be reengaged with the second component or an assembly, and can be operated for its intended purpose.

[0113] Figure 3 and 4 is a perspective view of the base 104a of the extraction cleaner 100a. Figure 3 The base 104a is shown with the suction nozzle 202 removed from the base 104a and the door 204 in a closed position. Figure 4The door 204 is shown pivoted to an open position and is not removable from the base 104a. Typically, the nozzle 202 can be removed from the base 104a to access the agitator cavity 116a and the agitator 124, such as Figure 3 As shown, and then the gate 204 can be from Figure 3 The closed position shown is pivoted to Figure 4 The open position shown. When the door 204 is located Figure 4 In the open position shown, the agitator chamber 116a and the agitator 124 can be accessed for cleaning or maintenance. In some embodiments, when the door 204 is in the open position, the agitator 124 can be removed from the agitator chamber 116a for cleaning or maintenance.

[0114] A nozzle 202 consistent with the present disclosure may have a variety of configurations. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of example extraction cleaner 100a showing suction nozzle 202 connected to base 104a. Figure 6 is a bottom perspective view of the suction nozzle 202 . Figure 7 1 is a side cross-sectional view of a portion of an extraction cleaner 100a having a connector end 610 of a suction nozzle 202 disconnected from a base 104a. In the illustrated example embodiment, the suction nozzle 202 has a front wall 602, a rear wall 604, a first side wall 606, a second side wall 608, a connector end 610 including a spring biased connector 612, and a first inwardly inclined feature 614 and a second inwardly inclined feature 616.

[0115] The nozzle passage 502 is formed between the front wall 602, the rear wall 604, and the first side wall 606 and the second side wall 608. The nozzle passage 502 extends from the suction inlet 131a at the front of the nozzle to the suction outlet 618 at the rear of the nozzle, and gradually narrows from a first width W1 at the suction inlet 131a to a smaller second width W2 at the suction outlet 618. In some embodiments, for example, the width W1 of the nozzle passage 502 at the suction inlet 131a may be 90 percent or more of the maximum width W3 of the nozzle 202, and the width W2 of the nozzle passage 502 at the suction outlet 618 may be 25 percent or less of the width W3 of the nozzle 202.

[0116] In the example shown, the suction nozzle is generally L-shaped and the suction inlet 131a is positioned to be disposed adjacent to the surface to be cleaned 110 during operation of the extraction cleaner 110a. The suction outlet 618 is oriented downwardly relative to the top 620 of the suction nozzle 202 and has a seal 622. Fig.11, when the suction nozzle 202 is assembled to the base 104a, the rear wall 604 of the suction nozzle 202 is in opposing relationship with the top surface 1002 of the door 204. The seal 622 on the suction outlet 618 is removably coupled to an opposing upwardly oriented seal 1102 on the suction inlet 1104 of the internal suction duct 504 disposed in the base portion 104a. In the illustrated example, the suction inlet 1104 of the internal suction duct 504 is adjacent to the opening 302 through the door 204 (see also Fig.10 ) is placed. The internal suction conduit 504 extends through the base 104a and is fluidly coupled to the base inlet port 512 of the suction switching valve 127a through the elbow conduit 510. The suction nozzle passage 502 is removably coupled to the internal suction conduit 504 to at least partially define a base airflow path 119a extending from the suction inlet 131a through the base 104a. In the illustrated example, the suction nozzle passage 502 is fluidly connected to the internal suction conduit 504 and the base inlet port 512 of the suction switching valve 127a to define the base airflow path 119a.

[0117] The outlet port 514 of the suction switching valve 127a is fluidly coupled to a recovery conduit 120a that forms part of the recovery tank 108a. Figure 5 , the suction switching valve 127a is in the base suction state, and the recovery conduit 120a is fluidly coupled to the base airflow path 119a through the switching valve 127a. When the suction switching valve 127a is in the base suction state, the suction motor 118a can establish suction at the suction inlet 131a to push the fluid deposited on the surface to be cleaned 110 into the suction inlet 131a, through the base airflow path 119a, through the recovery conduit 120a, and into the recovery tank 108a. In the base suction state, the suction switching valve 127a blocks the fluid communication between the recovery conduit 120a and the cleaning tool inlet port 516 of the suction switching valve 127a.

[0118] In view of this disclosure, many latch configurations for removably coupling the nozzle 202 to the base 104a will be apparent. In the illustrated example embodiment, the nozzle 202 is removably coupled to the base 104a via a spring biased connector 612 at the connector end 610 of the nozzle 202 and a first inwardly inclined feature 614 and a second inwardly inclined feature 616 at the front end 622 of the nozzle. Figure 8 612 is a cross-sectional view of a spring that is a portion of a nozzle 202 that includes a spring biased connector 612. As shown, the spring biased connector includes a connector body 802 disposed in a housing 804.

[0119] Fig. 9802 and a top perspective view of a first spring 902 and a second spring 904 for biasing the connector body 802 toward a latched position. The connector body 802 has a first latch 906 and a second latch 908 extending outwardly from its end, and a release handle 910 defined at its top. The first spring 902 is coupled to a post 912 on a first side of the connector body 802, and the second spring 904 is coupled to a post (not shown) on a second side of the connector body 802. The springs 902, 904 can be positioned against the inner surface of the suction nozzle 202 to bias the first latch 906 and the second latch 908 outwardly from the housing 804 at the connector end 610. Applying a force to the first latch 906 or the second latch 908 can overcome the biasing force of the springs 902, 904 and force the first latch 906 and / or the second latch 908 to enter the housing 804. When the force is released, the springs 902 , 904 can force the first latch 906 and the second latch 908 outward from the housing 804 .

[0120] Reference again Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the first inward feature 614 is disposed at a first side of the nozzle 202, and the second inward feature 616 is disposed at a second side of the nozzle 202. The first inward feature 614 and the second inward feature 616 open downwardly and are positioned to extend to the associated openings 1106, 1108 defined in the frame 201 of the base 104a ( Fig.11 ) with associated buckles 1112, 1114 ( Fig.11 )superior.

[0121] The nozzle 202 can be mounted to the base 104a by inserting the first and second inwardly inclined features 614, 616 into the associated openings 1106, 1108 to seat on the catches 1112, 1114, and then pivoting the nozzle 202 about the catches 1112, 1114 to rotate the connector end 610 of the nozzle 202 toward the top of the base 104a. The connector end 610 can then be latched to the base 104a by the connector 612.

[0122] For example, when the nozzle 202 moves to Figure 8In the closed position shown, the bottom surfaces 914, 916 of the first latch 906 and the second latch 908 engage the corner top surface 806 of the buckle 808 on the frame 201 of the base 104a, thereby forcing the connector body 612 into the housing 804 against the biasing force of the springs 902, 904. When the suction nozzle 202 is pushed downward, the latches 906, 908 are pushed inwardly sufficiently so that the front surface 810 of the buckle 808 is no longer obstructed. The latches 906, 908 then extend outward from the housing 804 under the force of the springs 902, 904, wherein the top surfaces 918, 920 of the first latch 906 and the second latch 908 extend below the bottom surface 812 of the buckle 808. Interference between the top surfaces 918 , 920 of the first and second latches 906 , 908 and the bottom surface 812 of the catch 808 removably connects the connector end 610 of the nozzle 202 to the base 104 a .

[0123] To release the connector end 610 of the nozzle 202 from the base 104a, the user can force the release handle 910 in a direction away from the buckle 808 to overcome the bias of the springs 902, 904 until the first latch 906 and the second latch 908 no longer obstruct the front surface 810 of the buckle 808. The user can then pull the connector end 610 upward to disconnect the connector end 610 of the nozzle 202 from the base 104a, and then pivot the nozzle 202 about the buckles 1112, 1114 in a direction away from the base 104a, for example, to Figure 7 Then, the openings 1106, 1108 ( Fig.11 ) Extract the inwardly tilted features 614, 616 to remove the suction nozzle 202 from the base 104a.

[0124] Although the illustrated example embodiment includes a spring biased connector 612 on the nozzle 202, many other configurations for removably coupling the nozzle 202 to the base 104a will be apparent in light of this disclosure. For example, the spring biased connector 612 may be provided on the base 104a, or a known bump fitting may be provided on the nozzle 202 or the base 104a. Other known latch configurations may be implemented on the base 104a and / or the nozzle 202.

[0125] Door 204 consistent with the present disclosure may have a variety of configurations. Fig.10 204. The door 204 includes a top surface 1002 with a suction inlet 1104 ( Fig.11As previously discussed, the suction outlet 618 of the suction nozzle 202 is coupled to the suction inlet 1104 adjacent the opening 302 to fluidly couple the suction nozzle passage 502 with the internal suction conduit 504. Thus, the base airflow path 119a extends from the suction inlet 131a through the opening 302.

[0126] The first cover 1004 and the second cover 1006 are disposed on the top surface 1002 of the door 204 to cover at least a portion of the associated fluid supply connections 1116, 1118 ( Fig.11 ). The first cover 1004 and the second cover 1006 are positioned on either side of the opening 302 and extend forward from the opening 302 and then extend outward toward the respective sides of the door 204. The side walls 1008, 1010 of the first cover 1004 and the second cover 1006 and the top surface 1002 of the door 204 define a cavity 1012 for receiving the connector end 610 of the nozzle 202.

[0127] In some embodiments, the first cover 1004 and the second cover 1006 can be removed from the top surface 1002 . Fig.11 is a top perspective view of the door 204 with the first cover 1004 and the second cover 1006 removed. Fig.12 is a bottom perspective view of door 204 . Fig.13 1 is a perspective view showing a fluid supply connection 1116. As shown, each of the fluid supply connections 1116, 1118 includes an inlet port 1120, a supply tube 1122, and a fluid dispensing nozzle 114a. The inlet port 1120 and the fluid dispensing nozzle 114a can be mounted to the top surface 1002 by fasteners extending into the door 204 through associated mounting bosses 1126, 1128. The inlet port 1120 can be fluidly coupled to the fluid dispensing nozzle 114a via a supply tube 1122 disposed above the top surface 1002 of the door 204.

[0128] like Fig.12 As shown specifically, the door 204 has a bottom surface 1202, and a front portion of each of the fluid dispensing nozzles 114a extends through an associated opening 1204, through the top surface 1002 and the bottom surface 1202 of the door 204. Thus, the fluid dispensing nozzles 114a are exposed at the bottom surface 1202 of the door to dispense fluid onto the surface to be cleaned 110. The inlet port 1120 also extends through an associated opening 1206, through the top surface 1002 and the bottom surface 1202 of the door 204, to removably fluidly couple to the base supply line 117a below the bottom surface 1202 of the door 204.

[0129] When the door 204 is in the closed position, the bottom surface 1202 of the door 204 is placed on the frame 201 of the base 104a and supported by the frame of the base. In some embodiments, when the suction nozzle 202 is connected to the base 104a, the door 204 is held by the suction nozzle 202 against the frame 201 of the base 104a. In other embodiments, the door 204 can be fixed to the frame 201 of the base 104a using a latch or a bump fitting (not shown) on the door 204 or the base 104a. In some embodiments, one or more springs (not shown) can be arranged between the door 204 and the base 104a to bias the door 204 away from the base 104a toward the open position. A release button (not shown) for releasing the door 204 from the base 104a can be arranged on the door 204 or the base 104a.

[0130] refer to Fig.12 and 15 , the front end 1208 of the door 204 can be pivotally coupled to the frame 201 of the base 104a by a first pivot pin 1210 and a second pivot pin 1212 extending outwardly from opposite side surfaces 1214, 1216 of the door 204. Each of the pivot pins 1210, 1212 can extend into the frame 201 of the base 104a. Thus, the door 204 can be pivoted around the pivot pins 1210, 1212 in a manner such as Figure 7 The closed position shown is similar to Fig.15 In some embodiments, the pivot pins 1210, 1212 can be fixed to the door 204 and the frame 201 so that the door 204 cannot be removed from the base 104a.

[0131] When the door 204 is in the closed position, such as Fig.16 As shown, the bottom surface 1202 of the door 204 defines the front wall 1602 and at least a portion of the top wall 1604 of the agitator cavity 116a. The suction nozzle 202 does not form any part of the agitator cavity 116a. At least a portion of the rear wall 1606 of the agitator cavity 116a is defined by the frame 201 of the base 104a. The agitator 124 is supported in the agitator cavity 116a in a known manner. When the door 204 is in the closed position, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the user cannot access the agitator from the top of the base 104a. When the door 204 is in the open position, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 and Fig.15 As shown, the agitator 124 is accessible to a user from the top of the base 104a for cleaning or maintenance.

[0132] When the door 204 is in the closed position, the inlet port 1120 is coupled to the base supply line 117a, and when the door is in the open position, the inlet port 1120 is decoupled from the base supply line 117a. Many configurations for coupling and decoupling the inlet port 1120 to the base supply line 117a as the door 204 moves between the open and closed positions will be apparent in light of this disclosure. Fig.13 and 14 , for example, the base supply line 117a can have a connector 1402 disposed at an end thereof to mate with and removably fluidly couple the base supply line 117a to the inlet port 1120. When the door 204 is in the closed position, such as, for example Figure 7 As shown, inlet port 1120 cooperates with connector 1402 to fluidly couple nozzle 114a to base supply line 117a. When door 204 is pivoted to an open position, such as for example Fig.15 As shown, the inlet port 1120 is separated from the supply line connector 1402 and the base supply line 117a, but the nozzle 114a, supply tube 1122, and inlet port 1120 remain coupled to the door 204.

[0133] When the door 204 and the suction nozzle 202 are assembled to the base 104a, the nozzle 114a is fluidly coupled to the base supply line 117a to dispense a cleaning fluid 1608 containing a first cleaning fluid 1608 from the supply tank 106a and / or a second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a directly or indirectly onto the surface to be cleaned 110. Fig.16 As shown, the nozzle 114a can be positioned to spray the cleaning fluid 1608 in front of the agitator 124 toward the inlet 131a of the suction nozzle 202. In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to spray the cleaning fluid 1608 so that the cleaning fluid 1608 contacts the surface to be cleaned 110 within a distance D of about 1.5 cm and preferably within about 5 mm from the bottom surface 1202 of the door 204. This allows both efficient cleaning of the surface to be cleaned 110 and fast drying time, because at least a portion of the cleaning fluid 1608 can be immediately removed from the surface to be cleaned 110 by the suction force from the suction inlet 131a.

[0134] like Fig.1714a, each nozzle in the nozzle 114a sprays cleaning fluid 1608 in an associated fan shape, and the nozzle 114a is positioned at a distance from the surface to be cleaned 110 so that the combined fan-shaped spray of the nozzle 114a extends across the full width W1 of the suction inlet 131a. In some embodiments, the fan-shaped spray of the cleaning fluid 1608 from the nozzle 114a can overlap or separate 5mm or less distance at a position 1702 between the nozzles 114a, where the fan-shaped spray and the nozzle both impact the surface to be cleaned 110. An extraction cleaner consistent with the present disclosure can include any number of spray nozzles 114a, including only one fluid distribution nozzle 114a. By spraying fluid from one or more fluid distribution nozzles 114a in a fan-shaped pattern, the cleaning fluid 1608 can cover the full width W1 of the suction inlet 131a to achieve effective cleaning.

[0135] Although the illustrated example embodiment includes a removable suction nozzle 202 and a non-removable door 204 that is pivotally connected to the base 104a at a front end 1208 of the door 204 adjacent to the front of the base 104a, many configurations of the suction nozzle 202 and the door 204 may be provided in an extraction cleaner consistent with the present disclosure. For example, the suction inlet 131a and the suction nozzle passage 502 may be defined by an inner surface of the door 204 and a separate channel assembly that is removably or non-removably coupled to the inner surface of the door 204.

[0136] In some embodiments, the door 204 can be configured to pivot adjacent to the rear of the upright body 102a and the base 104a at the rear end of the door 204. In another embodiment, such as Fig.18 As shown, the frame 201a of the base 104b can include a suction inlet 131b extending across the base 104b, and a removable or non-removable door 204a can be coupled to the base 104b and the suction inlet 131b. When the door 204a is assembled to the base 104b, the suction inlet 131b can be fluidly coupled to the suction nozzle passage in the removable or non-removable door 204a. In some embodiments, the door 204a can be pivotally connected to the base 104b adjacent to the upright body 102a at the rear of the door, and can be rotated to a closed position, in which the suction nozzle passage is fluidly connected to the inlet 131b defined by the base 104a.

[0137] In another embodiment, such as Fig.19 and 20As shown, the nozzle 202a can be removably coupled to the door 204b, and when assembled to the base 104c, the bottom surface 2002 of the nozzle 202a can define at least a portion of the agitator cavity 116b. The nozzle 202a can be seated on and supported by the door 204b, and can be removably coupled to the door 204b or the base 104c by a latch, a bump fitting, etc. The door 204b can be pivotally coupled to the base 104c by a pivot 2004 at the rear of the door 204b, and can be pivoted to an open position when the nozzle 202a is removed from the base 104c, as shown. Fig. 20 The door 204b may or may not be removable from the base 104c and the fluid dispensing nozzle 114a may be coupled to the door.

[0138] Fluid dispensing nozzles 114 consistent with the present disclosure may have various configurations. For example, one or more fluid dispensing nozzles 114 may be coupled to an inlet of a side wall adjacent to door 204, as opposed to adjacent connector end 610. In another embodiment, such as Fig.21 As shown in FIG. 1 , one or more fluid dispensing nozzles 114 b may be coupled to the side walls 2102, 2104 of the frame 201 b of the base 104 d. The nozzles 114 b may be coupled to associated arms 2106, 2108 that are pivotally coupled to the side walls 2102, 2104 to allow the nozzles 114 b to pivot downward toward the surface to be cleaned 110 to access the agitator 124. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. Fig. 22 As shown, one or more nozzles 114c can be coupled to the top and rear of the base 104e adjacent the upright body 102a. The nozzles 114c can be coupled to associated arms 2202, 2204 that are pivotally coupled to the base 104e to allow the nozzles 114a to pivot upward, such as Fig. 22 As shown, to access the agitator 124. In some embodiments, a door (e.g., door 204) can be mounted to the base 104e, wherein the arms 2202, 2204 are positioned below the bottom surface of the door. The arms 2202, 2204 can be spring biased to pivot upward when the door is removed, thereby allowing access to the agitator 124.

[0139] In view of this disclosure, many configurations for dispensing cleaning fluid directly or indirectly onto the surface to be cleaned 110 will also be apparent. For example, instead of using one or more discrete fluid dispensing nozzles 114a, a wicking configuration may be provided. Fig.23), the wicking configuration 2302 can include a hollow body 2304 and an absorbent fabric 2306 coupled to the hollow body 2304. The absorbent fabric can have a first end 2308 in fluid communication with the interior 2310 of the hollow body 2304 and a second end 2312 defining a plurality of drip points 2314. In the illustrated example, the drip points 2314 are a series of triangular-shaped tips formed in the absorbent fabric 2306. The hollow body 2304 can be mounted to a door, (e.g., door 204) or a base (e.g., base 104a), and fluidly coupled to the base supply line 117, 117a at one or both ends thereof. Fluid from the base supply line 117, 117a can be wicked out of the interior 2310 of the hollow body 2304 through the absorbent fabric 2306 and drip directly or indirectly from the drip points 2314 onto the surface to be cleaned 110.

[0140] In another embodiment, the agitator 124 may have an absorbent material wetted by, for example, cleaning fluid from one or more nozzles 114a or absorbent fabric 2306. The absorbent material of the agitator 124 may be saturated with the cleaning fluid, and the centrifugal force associated with the rotating agitator 124 may eject the cleaning fluid outward from the absorbent material and eject the cleaning fluid directly and / or indirectly onto the surface to be cleaned 110. In another embodiment, a channel (e.g., a u-shaped channel) may be formed on the inner surface of a door (e.g., door 204) and may extend across the width of a suction inlet (e.g., inlet 131a). The channel may be fluidly coupled to the base supply line 117, 117a. Multiple outlets may be formed in the channel to allow the cleaning fluid to drip from the channel and directly or indirectly drip onto the surface to be cleaned 110.

[0141] Extraction cleaners consistent with the present disclosure may include an automatic spray configuration for automatically dispensing cleaning fluid directly or indirectly onto surface 110 to be cleaned when the extraction cleaner is moved forward and / or backward by a user, and without further input from the user other than moving the extraction cleaner forward or backward. The automatic spray configuration may include at least one detector responsive to motion imparted by the user and a control mechanism responsive to motion detected by the detector to control dispensing of the cleaning fluid.

[0142] Fig.24100a, wherein a part of the frame 201 of the base 104a is removed. The illustrated example extraction cleaner comprises a detector 2402, which comprises a bottom plate contact member 2404 extending downwardly from it toward the surface to be cleaned 110 and a control mechanism in the form of a switch 2406. In the illustrated example embodiment, the bottom plate contact member 2404 is in the form of multiple bristles, and the switch 2406 is in the form of a micro switch. However, it should be understood that many configurations of the bottom plate contact member 2404 and the switch 2406 are possible in the extraction cleaner consistent with the present disclosure. For example, the bottom plate contact member 2404 can be configured as an elastic flap, a rigid member having a flexible member at its end, etc. The switch can be any type of switch configuration configured to respond to the position of the detector 2402, such as a Hall effect switch, an optical switch, etc.

[0143] Perspective view of the detector in Fig.25 As shown, the detector 2402 includes a detector body 2502, wherein a bottom plate contact member 2404 extends downwardly from the detector body 2502 and is at a non-zero angle relative to a vertical axis 2504 of the detector body 2502. In some embodiments, the angle may be between about 20 and 40 degrees.

[0144] The first side 2503 of the detector body 2502 includes a receptacle 2506 for receiving a pivot pin 2508 extending into the frame 201 of the base 104a. In response to movement of the base 104a, the detector body 2502 pivots about the pivot pin 2508 relative to the frame 201. The second side 2510 of the detector body 2502 has an extension 2512. The extension 2512 extends outwardly from the second side 2510 of the detector body 2502 and has a hammer 2514 disposed at its distal end.

[0145] like Fig.24 and Fig.26 As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 25, hammer 2514 is disposed adjacent to switch arm 2408 of switch 2406. Rotation of detector body 2502 about pivot pin 2508 causes hammer 2514 to contact switch arm 2408 to place switch 2406 in an open state or a closed state. In the illustrated example embodiment, when base 104a is moved forward by a user, i.e., in Fig.24 The bottom plate contact member 2404 contacts the surface to be cleaned 110 in the direction of the arrow 2410, thereby causing the detector body 2502 to pivot about the pivot pin 2508. Fig.24 and Fig.26. In this position, hammer 2514 can be retracted relative to switch arm 2408, thereby placing switch 2406 in an open state or a closed state. In response to the state of switch 2406, controller 145 of extraction cleaner 100a can cause cleaning fluid to flow through supply line 112 to nozzle 114a for distribution to surface 110 to be cleaned, for example, by energizing pump 125.

[0146] When the base 104a is moved backward by the user, that is, Fig.24 2406, the bottom plate contact member 2404 contacts the surface to be cleaned 110, thereby causing the detector body 2502 to pivot about the pivot pin 2508 and causing the hammer 2514 to move toward the switch arm 2408 and the switch 2406. In this position, the hammer 2514 can be forced against the switch arm 2408, thereby placing the switch 2406 in an open state or a closed state. In response to the state of the switch 2406, the controller 145 of the extraction cleaner can reduce or stop the flow of cleaning fluid through the supply line 112 to the nozzle 114a.

[0147] In some embodiments, controller 145 can cause dispensing of cleaning fluid at a first high flow rate in response to the switch state when extraction cleaner 100a moves in a forward direction, and cause dispensing of cleaning fluid at a second lower non-zero flow rate in response to the switch state when extraction cleaner 100a moves in a rearward direction. For example, high flow dispensing can provide a first high flow rate as described herein. Fig.16 and Fig.17 The fan-shaped spray pattern described. Low flow distribution can also provide a fan-shaped spray pattern, wherein the fan-shaped pattern associated with the nozzle 114a does not extend across the entire width W1 of the suction inlet 131a and / or does not overlap. Providing fluid distribution during both forward and rearward movement of the base 104a can provide effective cleaning compared to providing distribution during only one of the forward and rearward movement.

[0148] The detector and control mechanism in the automatic spray configuration consistent with the present disclosure can have various configurations. For example, the detector can be a Hall effect or optical sensor configured to sense the movement of components of the extraction cleaner 100a associated with forward movement and / or backward movement. In another embodiment, the detector can include a ratchet disposed on the wheel 139a of the extraction cleaner to move the components to enable or disable the control mechanism.

[0149] In another embodiment, such as Fig. 27As shown in FIG. 1 , the upright body 102a of the extraction cleaner can be coupled to the base 104a of the extraction cleaner by a pivot joint 2702 that allows pivotal movement of the upright body 102a relative to the base 104a and linear movement of the upright body 102a relative to the base 104a, as illustrated by arrow 2704. For example, the pivot joint 2702 can be seated in a slot 2706 defined in the base 104a. A switch 2708 having a switch arm 2710 can be positioned adjacent to the front end of the slot 2706. When a user pulls the base 104a backward using the handle 137a on the upright body 102a, the pivot joint 2702 can move backward in the slot 2706 to retract the pivot joint 2702 from the switch arm 2710 and place the switch 2708 in an open state or a closed state. In response to the state of the switch 2708, the controller 145 of the extraction cleaner can reduce or stop the flow of cleaning fluid through the supply line 112 to the nozzle 114a. When the user pushes the base 104a forward using the handle 137a on the upright body 102a, the pivot joint 2702 can move forward in the slot 2706, and a portion of the pivot joint 2702 can contact the switch arm 2710 to place the switch 2708 in an on state or a off state. In response to the state of the switch 2708, the controller 145 can, for example, by energizing the pump 125 to cause the cleaning fluid to flow through the supply line 112 to the nozzle 114a for distribution onto the surface 110 to be cleaned.

[0150] In some embodiments, the control mechanism can be a mechanical valve. For example, the detector can include a portion that contacts or retracts from a portion of the mechanical valve to allow fluid to be dispensed to the nozzle 114a, or a portion that contacts or retracts from a portion of the mechanical valve to reduce or stop fluid from being dispensed to the nozzle 114a. In other embodiments, the mechanical valve can be configured as a one-way pressure relief valve in a recirculation loop. The detector can include a portion that contacts or retracts from a portion of the pressure relief valve to control fluid dispensing depending on forward and / or backward movement of the base 104a.

[0151] Supply tank 106a and additive tank 107a in extraction cleaners consistent with the present disclosure can have various configurations. In some embodiments, supply tank 106a and additive tank 107a are configured to be removably coupled to upright body 102a, and additive tank 107a is configured to be removable from supply tank 106a. For example, one or more of supply tank 106a and / or additive tank 107a can be removed by a user to replenish the first cleaning fluid stored in supply tank 106a and / or the second cleaning fluid stored in additive tank 107a.

[0152] refer to Figure 2 and Fig.28, the upright body 102a can define a cleaning fluid support 206 configured to support the supply tank 106a and the bottom 208 of the additive tank 107a. The supply tank 106a can define an additive tank receptacle 2802 to removably receive at least a portion of the additive tank 107a. The additive tank receptacle 2802 can extend from the top surface 2804 of the supply tank 106a toward the bottom 208 of the supply tank 106a, and can extend between the first track 2806 and the second track 2808 defined by the supply tank 106a. In some embodiments, the bottom 2810 of the additive tank 107a can be inserted into the top of the additive tank receptacle 2802 at the top surface 2804 of the supply tank 106a, wherein the opposite sides 2812, 2814 of the additive tank 107a can slidably engage the associated tracks of the first track 2806 and the second track 2808. The additive tank 107a can be lowered downward in the additive tank receptacle 2802 to rest on the support 206 and / or the supply tank 106a. In other embodiments, the additive tank 107a can be forced into the additive tank receptacle 2802 from one side of the supply tank 106a to slidably engage the first track 2806 and the second track 2808.

[0153] When the supply tank 106a and the additive tank 107a are coupled to the upright body 102a, the additive tank 107a is at least partially received within the additive tank receptacle 2802, and the supply tank 106a can help support the additive tank 107a in an upright position. Such a configuration can generally be described as a nested configuration. When the additive tank 107a is disposed in the additive tank receptacle 2802, the additive tank receptacle 2802 can extend around at least a portion of the additive tank 107a.

[0154] In some embodiments, the second cleaning fluid in additive tank 107a and / or the first cleaning fluid in supply tank 106a may be sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, additive tank 107a and / or supply tank 106a may be constructed of a transparent material configured to at least partially filter out wavelengths of light that may degrade the second cleaning fluid or the first cleaning fluid.

[0155] Recovery tanks 108, 108a and supports for recovery tanks 108, 108a consistent with the present disclosure may have various configurations. Fig.29 For example, is a partial rear cross-sectional view of extraction cleaner 100a showing recovery tank 108a removably supported on support 2902 . Fig.30 is a top perspective view of a portion of extraction cleaner 100a showing support 2902 . Fig.3131 is a bottom perspective view of the main body portion of the recovery tank 108a. As shown, the bottom surface 3102 of the recovery tank 108a can define a support member cavity 3104 for receiving the support member 2902. The support member 2902 can be received in the support member cavity 3104 of the recovery tank 108a. The recovery tank 108a can be placed on the support member 2902 and removably supported by the support member, wherein the outer periphery 2904 of the recovery tank 108a depends on the support member 2902, as shown in FIG. Fig.29 The outlet port 514 of the suction switching valve 127a may extend upward into the support 2902, and the seal 2906 may be disposed on the outlet port 514. The recovery conduit 120a may be formed as part of the recovery tank 108a, and the inlet 3106 of the recovery conduit 120a may be located on the seal 2906 to provide fluid communication between the outlet port 514 of the suction switching valve 127a and the recovery conduit 120a.

[0156] The recovery tank 108a may include a protrusion 3108 extending downward from its bottom surface 3102. The protrusion 3108 may be positioned within the support cavity 3104 and toward the front of the support cavity 3104. The support 2902 may include a seal 2906 defined in its top surface 2908 and toward the front of the support 2902. Fig.32 As shown, when the recovery tank 108 a is mounted on the support 2902 , the front surface of the protrusion 3108 on the recovery tank 108 a engages the seal 2906 to removably retain the recovery tank 108 a on the support 2902 .

[0157] Fig.33 1 is a cross-sectional view of the recovery tank 108a. As shown, the recovery tank 108a includes a tank body 3302 and a cover 3304 positioned above the top open end 3306 of the tank body 3302. The cover includes a top 3308, an airflow management configuration 3310 coupled to the top 3308, and a float 3312 coupled to the airflow management configuration 3310.

[0158] In the illustrated example embodiment, when the extraction cleaner 100a is operated to provide suction at the suction inlet 131a or the cleaning tool suction inlet 135a, the suction motor 118a can generate a suction airflow through the recovery conduit 120a and the recovery tank 108a, as illustrated by arrow 3314, to push fluid and / or debris (referred to herein as "recovery fluid") into the tank body 3302. At least a portion of the float 3312 is buoyant and floats on the recovery fluid in the tank body 3302. When the recovery fluid in the tank body 3302 rises, the float 3312 is forced upward to the tank body 3302. Fig.33108a. The position shown in , to close the suction airflow path through the recovery tank 108a. Controller 145 can be configured to close the suction motor 118a when the suction airflow path is closed (e.g., in response to the sensor output indicating that the airflow path is closed). With this configuration, the recovery fluid can be extracted from the surface to be cleaned 110 or the target surface and stored in the tank body 3302 of the recovery tank 108a. When the recovery tank 108a is full, the suction motor 118a is closed. Then, the user can remove the recovery tank 108a from the support 2902 to empty the recovery tank 108a.

[0159] Also refer to Fig.34 33, the airflow management arrangement 3310 includes an airflow management body 3316, a screen 3318, a shroud 3320, and a foam filter 3322. The airflow management body 3316 includes an outer wall 3324 defining a semicircular cavity 3326 for receiving a top 3328 of the recovery conduit 120a and a first flange 3402 and a second flange 3406 extending outward toward respective sides of the tank body 3302. The shroud 3320 defines a cavity for receiving the foam filter 3322 and has an opening at its bottom defining an inlet 3330 of the foam filter 3322. The bottom portion 3332 of the shroud 3320 is angled inwardly toward the inlet 3330 to the foam filter 3332. Advantageously, the outer wall 3324 forces airflow from the recovery conduit 120a downwardly through the bottom end of the outer wall 3324, as shown by arrow 3314. The airflow enters the inlet 3330 of the foam filter 3332 around the flanges 3402, 3406. When the airflow is not blocked by the float 3312, the airflow passes through the screen 3318 and then flows out through the outlet 3334 that is fluidly connected to the suction motor 118a. The suction air can then pass around the suction motor 118a and pass through the vent in one side of the upright body 102a of the extraction cleaner 100a. Advantageously, the flanges 3402, 3406 limit the high-speed airflow from carrying water droplets into the inlet 3330 of the foam filter 3323. In addition, the shield 3320 surrounding the foam filter 3323 limits the water droplets in the suction airflow and the water droplets on the wall of the tank body 3302 from entering the inlet 3330 of the foam filter 3323.

[0160] Fig.35 3504 and 3506. Float 3502 may be a hollow structure coupled to one side of arm 3504. Float 3502 is hollow and has a flat side surface 3508, a portion of which is in opposing relationship with recovery conduit 120a on only one side of recovery conduit 120a. Arm 3504 extends upward from buoyancy member 3502, and valve member 3506 is provided to the top of arm 3504.

[0161] The float 3312 is supported by the airflow management body 3316. Fig.33 , the tabs 3510 extend outwardly from each side 3512 of the arm 3504 and are positioned to protrude into corresponding slots 3336 defined in the airflow management body 3316, such that when the buoyancy member 3502 floats on the recovery fluid in the tank body 3302, the slots 3336 define the upper and lower limits of the travel of the float 3312. In some embodiments, the float 3312 can be assembled to the airflow management body 3316 by bending the sides 3512 inwardly to position the tabs 3510 adjacent to the slots 3336, and then releasing the sides 3512 to allow the tabs 3510 to enter the slots 3336.

[0162] As the recovered fluid in the tank rises, the valve member is forced upward until the convex portion of the valve member 3506 blocks the entrance to the screen 3318, as shown in FIG. Fig.36 In this position, the suction airflow is blocked from exiting the recovery tank 108a through the outlet 3334. The suction motor 118a may then be turned off by the controller 145, and the recovery tank 108a may be removed from the extraction cleaner 100a for emptying.

[0163] As previously described, the suction airflow generated by the suction motor 118a can be selectively fluidly coupled to the base 104a to establish a suction airflow at the suction inlet 131a, or selectively fluidly coupled to the flexible hose 103a to establish a suction airflow at the cleaning tool suction inlet 135a, depending on the state of the suction switching valve 127a. The suction switching valve 127a consistent with the present disclosure can have various configurations.

[0164] Fig.37 3704 is a perspective view of the suction switching valve 127a. The illustrated example embodiment is configured as a rotary valve having a housing 3702 and a rotor 3704. Fig.38 , the housing 3702 defines a base inlet port 512, a cleaning tool inlet port 516, an outlet port 514, and a generally circular rotor cavity 3802. The rotor cavity 3802 is configured to receive at least a portion of the rotor 3704. The rear wall 3804 of the rotor cavity 3802 has an opening 3806 therein that is substantially coaxial with the rotor cavity 3802.

[0165] like Fig.39As shown, the rotor 3704 includes a rotor body 3902 and a rotor arm 3904. The rotor body 3902 includes a first end 3906, a second end 3908, and a plug 3910 extending between the first end 3906 and the second end 3908. The first end 3906 is generally cylindrical and is configured to be rotatably received in the rotor cavity 3802. A first side of the plug 3910 is coupled to a portion of the periphery of the inner surface 3912 of the first end 3906 and extends along it. The outer periphery of the second end 3908 is arc-shaped, and the diameter of the arc is substantially the same as the diameter of the cylindrical first end 3906. The outer surface of the second end 3908 has a cylindrical boss 3914, which extends axially from the outer surface and is configured to be received in the opening 3806 in the rear wall 3804 of the rotor cavity 3802. The second side of the plug 3910 is coupled to and extends along an outer perimeter of the inner surface 3916 of the second end 3908 .

[0166] The rotor arm 3904 includes a rotor arm body 3918 and a shank 3920. The rotor arm body 3918 is generally cylindrical, and the shank 3920 extends radially outward from the rotor arm body 3918. The rotor arm body 3918 is coupled to the first end 3906 of the rotor body 3902.

[0167] At least a portion of the rotor body 3902 can be received in the rotor cavity 3802, wherein the boss 3914 on the second end 3908 of the rotor body 3902 is seated in the opening 3806 in the rear wall 3804 of the rotor cavity 3802. In some embodiments, the rotor 3704 can include a protrusion 3922 located on the first end 3906 of the rotor body 3902 or the outer surface of the rotor arm body 3918, which can be received in a corresponding groove 3808 defined in the housing 3702 to assemble the rotor 3704 to the housing 3702.

[0168] For example, the second end 3908 of the rotor body 3902 can be inserted into the rotor cavity 3802, with the boss 3914 aligned to extend into the opening 3806 in the rear wall 3804 of the rotor cavity 3802. The rotor 3704 can be positioned so that the protrusion 3922 is aligned with the slot 3808 in the housing 3702, and the rotor body 3902 can be advanced inwardly into the rotor cavity 3802 so that the boss 3914 is seated in the opening 3806. The rotor 3704 can then be rotated so that the protrusion 3922 and the slot 3808 are no longer aligned, and the rotor body 3902 is at least partially and rotatably fixed in the rotor cavity 3802.

[0169] When the rotor body 3902 is rotatably disposed in the rotor cavity 3802, the user can manually manipulate the handle 3920 of the rotor arm 3904 to move the suction switching valve 127a between the base suction state and the cleaning tool suction state. For example, in order to place the suction switching valve 127a in the base suction state, the user can move the handle 3920 to the base suction state. Figure 2 and 32 3902 and the plug 3910 are oriented upwardly as shown in the figure, so that the rotor body 3902 and the plug 3910 rotate within the rotor cavity 3802. In this upward orientation of the handle 3920, the plug 3910 blocks fluid communication between the cleaning tool inlet port 516 and the outlet port 514 of the housing 3702. With the plug 3910 in this position, the base inlet port 512 is fluidly coupled to the outlet port 514, and the recovery conduit 120a is fluidly coupled to the base airflow path 119a ( Figure 5 ). Thus, the suction motor 118a can push the recovered fluid from the surface to be cleaned 110 through the base airflow path 119a into the recovery tank 108a.

[0170] To place the suction switching valve 127a in the cleaning tool suction state, the user can move the handle 3920 to Fig.40 and 41 3902 and the plug 3910 are oriented downwardly, so that the rotor body 3902 and the plug 3910 rotate in the rotor cavity 3902. In this downward orientation of the handle 3920, the plug 3910 blocks the fluid communication between the base inlet port 512 and the outlet port 514 of the housing 3702. When the plug 3910 is in this position, the cleaning tool inlet port 516 is fluidly connected to the outlet port 514, and the recovery conduit 120a is fluidly connected to the cleaning tool airflow path 129a. Therefore, the suction motor 118a can push the recovery fluid deposited on the target surface through the cleaning tool airflow path 129a into the recovery tank 108a.

[0171] The suction switching valve 127a according to the present disclosure can have various manual, automatic or semi-automatic configurations. In some embodiments, an electrically driven component such as a solenoid can be used to place the suction switching valve 127a in a selected state. The electrically driven component can be controlled by user input, for example, by a mechanical or graphical user interface (GUI) button on the control panel 141 to select the desired state of the suction switching valve 127a, and / or by an output from a controller 145 to set the state of the suction switching valve 127a in response to the output of one or more sensors. In some embodiments, for example, when the cleaner is in an upright position, the user can select the base suction state and / or the cleaning tool suction state by manually manipulating or activating the electrically controlled valve, for example. Figure 1 and 2In some embodiments, when the cleaning tool 105a is in the upright position, a mechanical or electrical switch can automatically move the suction switching valve 127a to the cleaning tool suction state, and when the cleaning tool is moved to the inclined position for floor cleaning, the mechanical or electrical switch can automatically move the suction switching valve 127a to the base suction state. In some embodiments, when the cleaning tool 105a is removed from the storage position, for example, Figure 2 , the action of removing the cleaning tool 105a can change the state of the mechanical or electrical switch, thereby moving the suction switching valve 127a to the cleaning tool suction state. Putting the cleaning tool 105a back to the storage position can change the state of the switch again, thereby moving the suction switching valve 127a to the base suction state. In some embodiments, installing the recovery tank 108a, the supply tank 106a and / or the additive tank 107a or removing them from the cleaner 100a can change the state of the mechanical or electrical switch, thereby placing the suction switching valve 127a in the cleaning tool suction state or the base suction state.

[0172] In some embodiments, the suction switching valve 127a according to the present disclosure may have a removal position. When the suction switching valve 127a is in the removal position, the rotor 3704 can be removed from the housing 3702 to clean or maintain the suction switching valve 127a. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the suction switching valve 127a can be placed in the removal position by moving the handle 3920 forward relative to the upright orientation to thereby align the protrusion 3922 with the groove 3808. When the protrusion 3922 is aligned with the groove 3808, the rotor 3704 can be manually extracted from the rotor cavity 3802 by axially pushing the rotor 3704 and with the protrusion 3922 sliding outward from the groove 3808. This allows access to the rotor 3704 and the rotor cavity 3802 for cleaning. As an example, when the handle 3920 is relative to Figure 2 and 32 When moved forward approximately 30 degrees from the upright orientation shown in FIG, the suction switch valve 127a can be placed in the removed position.

[0173] In view of this disclosure, various other configurations of the suction switching valve will be apparent. In some embodiments, for example, the suction switching valve 127a may include a removable sealing portion to allow cleaning or maintenance of the suction switching valve 127a. For example, Fig.37The seal 2906 shown in the figure can be removably or pivotally coupled to the housing 3702 to allow access to the interior of the housing 3702. In some embodiments, the flexible hose 103a coupled to the cleaning tool inlet port 516 of the suction switching valve 127a can be removable to allow access to the interior of the housing 3702 for cleaning or maintenance. In addition or alternatively, the rotor 3704 of the suction switching valve 127a can include one or more features extending therefrom, such as wipers, teeth, etc., when the rotor 3704 rotates in the rotor cavity 3802 and / or when the rotor 3704 is removed from the housing 3702, the one or more features remove debris from the interior of the suction switching valve 127a. The interior of the suction switching valve 127a can also include one or more internal suction paths through the suction switching valve 127a, and the one or more internal suction paths tend to remove debris. The rotor 3704 may also be positioned within the rotor cavity 3802 to provide a gap between the rotor 3704 and a portion of the housing 3702 that defines the rotor cavity 3802 , thereby preventing debris from becoming lodged in the rotor cavity 3802 .

[0174] In some embodiments, movement of the suction switching valve 127a to the base suction state automatically places the fluid switching valve 123 in the base supply state to provide fluid delivery to the nozzle 114a on the base 104a, and movement of the suction switching valve 127a to the cleaning tool suction state places the fluid switching valve 123 in the cleaning tool supply state to provide fluid delivery to the fluid dispensing nozzle 115 on the cleaning tool 105a. For example, an electrical switch (e.g., a microswitch, a Hall effect switch, an optical switch, etc.) can be positioned adjacent to the suction switching valve 127a and configured to control the electrically actuated fluid switching valve 123 directly or through the controller 145 in response to the position of the suction switching valve 127a. In other embodiments, the suction switching valve 127a can be mechanically connected to the fluid switching valve 123, so that movement of the suction switching valve 127a to the base suction state also moves the fluid switching valve 123 to the base supply state, and movement of the suction switching valve to the cleaning tool suction state also moves the fluid switching valve 123a to the cleaning tool supply state.

[0175] Fig.42 For example, a mechanical connection between the suction switching valve 127a and the fluid switching valve 123a is shown. The exemplary embodiment shown includes a connecting rod 4202 connected between the suction switching valve 127a and the fluid switching valve 123a. Also refer to Fig.39 , 4344, the rotor 3704 of the suction switching valve 127a includes a cam 4302, which extends axially outward from the outer surface of the boss 3914 and is adjacent to the periphery of the boss 3914. The cam 4302 extends into an opening 4304 in the cam follower 4306, which is configured to move linearly between an upward position and a downward position relative to the suction switching valve 127a. When the handle 3920 of the suction switching valve 127a is moved to an upright orientation and the suction switching valve 127a is moved to the base suction state, the cam 4302 engages the cam follower 4306 to force the cam follower 4306 to reach the upward position. When the handle 3920 is moved to a downward orientation and the suction switching valve 127a is moved to the cleaning tool suction state, the cam 4302 engages the cam follower 4306 and forces the cam follower 4306 to reach the downward position.

[0176] The distal end of the cam follower 4306 is coupled to one end of the link 4202. The link 4202 is disposed in the upright body 102a to perform a linear movement corresponding to the linear movement of the cam follower 4306. In some embodiments, the link 4202 and the cam follower 4306 may be biased toward an upward position or a downward position by a spring 4204 disposed between the link 4202 and the upright body 102a.

[0177] Also refer to Fig.44 , the opposite end of the connecting rod 4202 includes valve engagement surfaces 4402, 4404, which are positioned adjacent to the associated engagement surfaces 4406, 4408 of the corresponding valve members 4410, 4412 of the fluid switching valve 123a. The valve engagement surfaces 4402, 4404 are configured to contact the engagement surfaces 4406, 4408 of the valve members 4410, 4412 to force the valve members 4410, 4412 into a configuration that places the fluid switching valve 123a in a state corresponding to the state of the suction switching valve 127a. That is, when the suction switching valve 127a moves to the base suction state, the engagement surfaces 4402, 4404 place the valve members 4410, 4412 in a position that places the fluid switching valve 123a in the base supply state to supply cleaning fluid to the base. When the suction switching valve 127a is moved to the cleaning tool suction state, the engagement surfaces 4402, 4404 place the valve members 4410, 4412 in a position to place the fluid switching valve 123a in the cleaning tool supply state to supply cleaning fluid to the cleaning tool 105a.

[0178] The connecting rod 4202 and the fluid switching valve 123a according to the present disclosure can have various configurations. For example, the fluid switching valve 123a can include only a single valve member, and the connecting rod 4202 can include only a single valve engagement surface to force the valve member into a position corresponding to the state of the suction switching valve 127a. The fluid switching valve 123a can have any number of valve engagement surfaces and valve members, and the fluid switching valve 123a can be configured to provide various combinations of fluid pathways depending on the position of the valve member.

[0179] The fluid switching valve 123a may also or alternatively be placed in a selected state using an electrically driven member such as a solenoid, the electrically driven member being controlled by a user input, for example, by a mechanical or graphical user interface (GUI) button on the control panel 141, to select the desired position of the fluid switching valve, and / or by an output from the controller 145 to set the position of the fluid switching valve 123a in response to the output of one or more sensors. In addition, any number of fluid switching valves may be fluidly coupled in a system according to the present disclosure, for example, by one or more control valves, to selectively couple the first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid to the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a. In some embodiments, for example, the fluid switching valve and the control valve may be controlled by a user input to allow a user to selectively supply a desired fluid combination to the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a, for example, only an enhancement fluid, only a base cleaning fluid, and / or a desired mixture of an enhancement fluid and a base cleaning fluid. Fig.45 and 46 Schematically shows Fig.42 and 44 The operation of the example fluid switching valve 123a shown in FIG. The illustrated fluid switching valve 123a includes a first valve member 4410 disposed in a first chamber 4502 of a housing 4504 and a second valve member 4412 disposed in a second chamber 4506 of the housing 4504. The first valve member 4410 and the second valve member 4412 can be moved between the first chamber 4502 and the second chamber 4506. Fig.45 The extended position shown in Fig.46 Each of the valve members 4410 , 4412 may be biased toward the extended position by an associated spring 4508 , 4510 disposed between the valve member 4410 , 4412 and the housing 4504 .

[0180] The housing 4504 defines a first fluid input port 4512 and a second fluid input port 4514 and a pump output port 4516 that selectively fluidly communicates with the second chamber 4506 depending on the position of the second valve member 4412. The housing 4504 further defines a pump input port 4518, a base output port 4520, and a cleaning tool output port 4522 that selectively fluidly communicates with the first chamber 4502 depending on the position of the first valve member 4410.

[0181] The pump output port 4516 can be coupled to the input of the pump 125a, and the pump input port 4518 can be coupled to the output of the pump 125a. The first fluid input port 4512 can be coupled to the supply line 112 ( Figure 1 ) is connected to the mixing valve 111 ( Figure 1 ) output, and the second input port 4514 can be supplied through the supply line 112 ( Figure 1 ) is coupled to a second output of the mixing valve 111. The base output port 4520 can be fluidly coupled to the base supply line 117a to supply cleaning fluid to one or more fluid dispensing nozzles 114a coupled to the base 104a. The cleaning tool output port 4522 can be coupled to the cleaning tool supply line 121 ( Figure 1 ) to supply cleaning fluid to one or more fluid dispensing nozzles 115 coupled to the cleaning tool 105a.

[0182] like Fig.45 As shown, when the first valve member 4410 and the second valve member 4412 are in the extended position, the first fluid input port 4512 can be fluidly coupled to the pump output port 4516 through the second chamber 4506, and fluid communication between the second fluid input port 4514 and the pump output port 4516 can be blocked by the second valve member 4412. In addition, the pump input port 4518 can be fluidly coupled to the base output port 4520 through the first chamber 4502, and fluid communication between the cleaning tool output port 4522 and the pump input port 4518 can be blocked by the first valve member 4410. In this configuration, the cleaning fluid provided from the mixing valve 111 to the first fluid input port 4512 can be pumped into the pump input port 4518 by the pump 125a and pumped out to the base supply line 117a coupled to the base output port 4520.

[0183] like Fig.46As shown, when the first valve member 4410 and the second valve member 4412 are in the retracted position, the second fluid input port 4514 can be fluidly coupled to the pump output port 4516 through the second chamber 4506, and the fluid communication between the first fluid input port 4512 and the pump output port 4516 can be blocked by the second valve member 4412. In addition, the pump input port 4518 can be fluidly coupled to the cleaning tool output port 4522 through the first chamber 4502, and the fluid communication between the base output port 4520 and the pump input port 4518 can be blocked by the first valve member 4410. In this configuration, the cleaning fluid provided from the mixing valve 111 to the second fluid input port 4514 can be pumped into the pump input port 4518 by the pump 125a and pumped out to the cleaning tool supply line 121 coupled to the cleaning tool output port 4522.

[0184] Thus, a single pump 125a can be used to pump cleaning fluid from different input ports 4512, 4514 to the base 104a or the cleaning tool 105a according to the selected position of the valve members 4410, 4412. In some embodiments, for example, the output of the mixing valve 111 to the first fluid input port 4512 can include only the first cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a, only the second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a, or a mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid. The output of the mixing valve 111 to the second fluid input port 4514 can include only the first cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a, only the second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a, or a mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid. Therefore, in the configuration shown, different cleaning fluids or combinations of cleaning fluids can be provided from the mixing valve 111 to the first fluid input port 4512 and the second fluid input port 4514 to provide different cleaning fluids to the base 104a or the cleaning tool 105a, respectively. In some embodiments, for example, only the first cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a may be provided to the first fluid input port 4512 to provide only the first cleaning fluid to the base 104a, and a mixture of the first cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a and the second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a may be provided to the second fluid input port 4514 to provide the mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid to the cleaning tool 105a.

[0185] The mixing valve 111a can have various configurations. An example of a mixing valve 111a that can be used according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is Fig.47The mixing valve 111a includes a first mixing valve inlet 4702, a second mixing valve inlet 4704, a first mixing valve outlet 4706, and a second mixing valve outlet 4708. The mixing valve 111a is configured to receive the first cleaning fluid at the first mixing valve inlet 4702 and the second fluid at the second mixing valve inlet 4704, and to provide a mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid at the first mixing valve outlet 4706 and to receive only the first cleaning fluid at the second mixing valve outlet 4708.

[0186] For example, in some embodiments, the first mixing valve inlet 4702 is fluidly coupled to the supply tank 106a, the second mixing valve inlet 4704 is fluidly coupled to the additive tank 107a, the first mixing valve outlet 4706 is coupled to the second fluid input port 4514 of the fluid switching valve 123a, and the second mixing valve outlet 4708 is coupled to the first fluid input port 4512 of the fluid switching valve 123a. When the cleaning fluid is supplied from both the supply tank 106a and the additive tank 107a, the cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a is provided at the second mixing valve outlet 4708 and is fluidly coupled to the first fluid input port 4512 of the fluid switching valve 123a, and a mixture of the cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a and the cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a is provided at the first mixing valve outlet 4706 and is fluidly coupled to the second fluid input port 4514 of the fluid switching valve 123a. In this configuration, the fluid switching valve 123a supplies the first cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a to the base 104a when in the base supply state, and supplies a mixture of the first cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a and the second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a to the cleaning tool 105a when in the cleaning tool supply state, and a single pump 125a is used to pump the fluid to the base 104a and the cleaning tool 105a.

[0187] Fig.48 1 shows a cross-sectional view of the mixing valve 111a. As shown, the mixing valve 111a includes a first mixing valve inlet 4702 ( Fig.14 ) and fluidly coupled to the first chamber 4800 of the second mixing valve outlet 4708, the second chamber 4802 corresponding to the second mixing valve inlet 4704, and the mixing chamber 4804 fluidly coupled to the first chamber 4800 and the second chamber 4802 and fluidly coupled to the first mixing valve outlet 4706. Also refer to Fig.49 In a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the present invention, the first chamber 4800 includes one or more first chamber ports 4902 that fluidically couple the first chamber 4800 to the mixing chamber 4804, and the second chamber includes one or more second chamber ports 4904 that fluidically couple the second chamber 4802 to the mixing chamber 4804.

[0188] As shown, the mixing valve 111a includes a plurality of umbrella valves 4806, each of which corresponds to a corresponding one of the first chamber 4800 or the second chamber 4802. The umbrella valve 4806 is configured to be used as a one-way valve, which substantially prevents the cleaning fluid in the mixing chamber 4804 from flowing back into the first chamber 4800 and / or the second chamber 4802. In addition to the umbrella valve 4806 or as an alternative, one or more check valves can be fluidly coupled to the first mixing valve inlet 4702 and / or the second mixing valve inlet 4704. In addition to the mixing valve 111a or as an alternative, a venturi coupling or valve, a T-shaped coupling or valve, and / or a Y-shaped coupling or valve can be used to mix the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid. In these embodiments, one or more check valves can be fluidly coupled between the valve or coupling and the corresponding one of the supply tank 106a and / or the additive tank 107a.

[0189] Fig.50 A perspective exploded view of the mixing valve 111a is shown. As shown, the mixing valve 111a includes a top cover 5002, a bottom cover 5004, and an intermediate plate 5006. The top cover 5002 defines a first chamber 4800 and a second chamber 4802, and the bottom cover defines a mixing chamber 4804. The intermediate plate 5006 includes a first chamber port 4902 and a second chamber port 4904 and a valve mounting opening 5008 to couple to the umbrella valve 4806. As shown, the intermediate plate 5006 includes four first chamber ports 4902 and one second chamber port 4904. For example, the diameter of the first chamber port 4902 can be two to four times the diameter of the second chamber port 4904. As another example, the diameter of the first chamber port 4902 can be 3.125 times the diameter of the second chamber port 4904. As yet another example, the diameter of the first lumen port 4902 can be approximately 2.5 millimeters (mm) (eg, within 1%, 5%, or 10%), and the diameter of the second lumen port can be approximately 0.8 mm.

[0190] The number and size of the first cavity port 4902 and the second cavity port 4904 can be based at least in part on the desired mixing ratio of the first fluid to the second fluid. For example, the mixing ratio of the first cleaning fluid to the second cleaning fluid can be in the range of 5:1 to 15:1. As another example, the mixing ratio of the first cleaning fluid to the second cleaning fluid can be in the range of 9:1 to 11:1. As yet another example, the mixing ratio of the first cleaning fluid to the second cleaning fluid can be 10:1.

[0191] The extraction cleaner according to the present disclosure can have various configurations to allow the user to selectively control the supply of the first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid (and / or the ratio of the first cleaning fluid to the second cleaning fluid) to the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a. For example, the second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a can be provided only to the cleaning tool 105a, for example, alone or in a mixture with the first cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a, without being provided to the base 104a. This can allow the user to use the second cleaning fluid to clean the target area with or without the enhancement fluid, while avoiding the waste of the second cleaning fluid and / or the potential damage to the surface to be cleaned 110 and the surrounding surfaces or objects that may be caused by dispensing the second cleaning fluid from the base 104a.

[0192] In some embodiments, such as for example Fig.51 , control valve 5102 can be fluidly coupled to additive tank 107a, for example, at the output of additive tank 107a, to allow a user to selectively deliver a second cleaning fluid from additive tank 107a, for example, alone or with a first cleaning fluid from supply tank 106a in a mixture. For example, a user can manipulate an input (e.g., a mechanical or graphical user interface (GUI) button on control panel 141) to control control valve 5102 directly or through controller 145 to control the second cleaning fluid from additive tank 107a through mixing valve 111a and / or one or more supply lines 112 to base 104a and / or cleaning tool 105a. In some embodiments, controller 145 can implement a timer to automatically control control valve 5102 to stop delivering the second cleaning fluid from additive tank 107 after a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 20 seconds). This can avoid accidental use of the second cleaning fluid after the user has started using it through an input on control panel 141.

[0193] In some embodiments, control valve 5103 can be fluidly coupled to supply tank 106a, for example, at the output of additive tank 106a, to allow a user to selectively deliver a first cleaning fluid from supply tank 106a, for example, alone or in a mixture with a second cleaning fluid from additive tank 107a. For example, a user can manipulate an input (e.g., a mechanical or graphical user interface (GUI) button on control panel 141) to control control valve 5103 directly or through controller 145 to control the delivery of the first cleaning fluid from supply tank 106a through mixing valve 111a and / or one or more supply lines 112 to base 104a and / or cleaning tool 105a.

[0194] In some embodiments, the delivery of the first cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a and / or the delivery of the second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a can be controlled in response to one or more sensors 5109 providing one or more control outputs to the controller 145. The controller 145 can control the state of the control valve 5102 and / or the control valve 5103 in response to the control output from the sensor 5109. For example, the sensor 5109 can include a known surface type detection sensor coupled to the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a to provide a different control output associated with each of a plurality of different floor types (e.g., hard floors, carpets, and / or different types of hard floors or carpets) on which the cleaner 100 is located. The controller 145 can be configured to control the control valve 5102, the control valve 5103, and / or the mixing valve 111a to deliver the first cleaning fluid, the second cleaning fluid, and / or the desired mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid to the base 104a or the cleaning tool 105a according to the floor type detected by the surface type sensor. For example, in some embodiments, when the surface type detection sensor provides a first output to the controller 145 indicating that the base 104a or the cleaning tool 105a is positioned above a hard floor, the controller 145 can control the control valve 5102, the control valve 5103 and / or the mixing valve 111a to deliver only the first cleaning fluid to the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a, and when the surface type detection sensor provides a second output to the controller 145 indicating that the base 104a or the cleaning tool 105a is positioned above a carpet, deliver a desired mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid.

[0195] In some embodiments, sensor 5109 may include a known turbidity and / or debris sensor coupled to cleaner 100a to detect the amount of debris in the recovery fluid sucked into the recovery tank from base 104a and / or cleaning tool 105a. Controller 145 may be configured to control control valve 5102, control valve 5103, and / or mixing valve 111a to deliver the first cleaning fluid, the second cleaning fluid, and / or the desired mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid to base 104a or cleaning tool 105a based on the amount of debris in the recovery fluid as detected by the turbidity and / or debris sensor. For example, in some embodiments, when the turbidity and / or debris sensor provides a first output to the controller 145 indicating that the amount of debris in the recovery fluid is at a relatively low level, the controller 145 can control the control valve 5102, the control valve 5103 and / or the mixing valve 111a to deliver only the first cleaning fluid to the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a, and when the turbidity and / or debris sensor provides a second output to the controller indicating that the amount of debris in the recovery fluid is at a relatively high level, the desired mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid is delivered. With this configuration, when the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a is cleaning a particularly dirty area, the fluid from the additive tank 107a, such as the enhancement fluid, can be automatically delivered to the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a, and then when the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a is not cleaning a particularly dirty area, the delivery of the enhancement fluid can be automatically stopped.

[0196] Various other configurations can be provided in the extraction cleaner to control the supply of the first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid to the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a. For example, any number of mixing valves can be provided in combination with an associated control valve to allow a user to selectively supply a desired fluid combination to the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a, for example, only the first cleaning fluid, only the second cleaning fluid and / or the desired mixture / ratio of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid. In addition, in some embodiments, the mixing valve 111a can be omitted, and one or more accessories (such as known t-connectors) can be used to achieve the desired mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid.

[0197] In some embodiments where a mixture of a first cleaning fluid from a supply tank 106a and a second cleaning fluid from an additive tank 107a is supplied to the base 104a and / or the cleaning tool 105a, a known flow sensor 5104 may be provided at the output of the supply tank 106a. The flow sensor 5104 may provide an output indicating that the flow of the first cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a has been interrupted to the controller 145. In response, the controller may control, for example, a control valve 5102 coupled to the additive tank 107a at the output of the additive tank 107a to stop the flow of the second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107; and / or control the mixing valve 111a coupled to the additive tank 107a to stop the flow of the additive fluid from the mixing valve. This may avoid delivering the second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a alone to the base 104a or the cleaning tool 105a, i.e., without mixing with the first cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a. This can prevent damage to the surface to be cleaned 110 or the target surface due to application of only the second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a.

[0198] In some embodiments, the extraction cleaner according to the present disclosure can provide a visual indicator that the second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a is being supplied to the base 104a or the cleaning tool 105a. For example, a known flow sensor 5106 can be set at the output of the additive tank 107a, and when the second cleaning fluid is being delivered from the additive tank 107a, one or more lights 5108 (such as LED lights) can be illuminated by the controller 145 in response to the output of the flow sensor 5106. In some embodiments, the second cleaning fluid from the additive tank 107a and the first cleaning fluid from the supply tank 106a can contain components that produce different colors when mixed. For example, the first cleaning fluid can have yellow, and the second cleaning fluid can have blue. When both the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid are delivered to the surface to be cleaned 110 or the target surface, the mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid produces a mixed cleaning fluid with green, thereby indicating that two fluids have been applied.

[0199] Therefore, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, an extraction cleaner is provided, which includes a base; an upright body, which is pivotally connected to the base; an agitator, which is disposed in an agitator cavity of the base and is configured to agitate a surface to be cleaned; a supply tank, which is used to store a cleaning fluid; and a recovery tank, which is configured to receive recovered fluid extracted from the surface to be cleaned by suction established at a suction inlet.

[0200] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the base may include a frame, a door coupled to the frame, a suction nozzle coupled to the base, and at least one fluid dispensing nozzle. According to another aspect, the door may be irremovably coupled to the frame, and the suction nozzle may be removably coupled to the base. According to another aspect, the door may include a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface of the door defining at least a portion of the agitator chamber, and the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle may be coupled to the door and exposed at the bottom surface of the door, the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle being configured to dispense a cleaning fluid directly or indirectly onto a surface to be cleaned. According to another aspect, the suction nozzle may have a front wall, a rear wall, and a suction nozzle passage defined between the front wall and the rear wall, the rear wall being positioned in a relative relationship to the top surface of the door, the suction nozzle passage having a suction inlet and a suction outlet, the suction inlet being configured to be disposed adjacent to the surface to be cleaned, the suction outlet being configured to be removably coupled to an internal suction duct of the base to at least partially define a base airflow path extending from the suction inlet through the base.

[0201] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the door can be pivotally coupled to the frame to pivot between a closed position in which the agitator is inaccessible from the top of the base and an open position in which the agitator is accessible from the top of the base. According to another aspect, the door can be pivotally coupled to the frame by a first pivot pin and a second pivot pin extending outwardly from opposing side surfaces of the door into associated sides of the frame. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the bottom surface of the door defines a front wall of the agitator cavity and at least a portion of a top wall.

[0202] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the base may further include at least one inlet port extending through an associated opening in the door, the inlet port being fluidly connected to a base supply line below the bottom surface of the door and fluidly connected to a supply tube above the top surface of the door, the supply tube being fluidly connected to the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0203] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the door can be pivotally connected to the frame to pivot between a closed position and an open position, wherein the agitator is inaccessible from the top of the base in the closed position, and the agitator is accessible from the top of the base in the open position, and the inlet port is removably fluidly connected to the base supply line, whereby when the door is moved to the closed position, the inlet port is fluidly connected to the base supply line, and when the door is moved to the open position, the inlet port is decoupled from the base supply line.

[0204] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the base further includes at least one cover disposed on the top surface of the door and over at least a portion of the fluid dispensing nozzle, the supply tube, and the inlet port.

[0205] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the door includes an opening therein, and the base airflow path extends from the suction inlet through the opening.

[0206] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle includes a first fluid dispensing nozzle and a second fluid dispensing nozzle, and the base further includes a first inlet port and a second inlet port, the first inlet port and the second inlet port are each fluidly connected to a base supply line below the bottom surface of the door, the first inlet port is fluidly connected to a first supply pipe above the top surface of the door, and the second inlet port is fluidly connected to a second supply pipe above the top surface of the door, the first supply pipe and the second supply pipe are fluidly connected to the first fluid dispensing nozzle and the second fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0207] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the base further includes: a first cover, which is disposed on the top surface of the door and above at least a portion of the first fluid dispensing nozzle, the first supply tube, and the first inlet port; and a second cover, which is disposed on the top surface of the door and above at least a portion of the second fluid dispensing nozzle, the second supply tube, and the second inlet port.

[0208] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a portion of the suction nozzle is received in a cavity defined by the top surface of the door, a side surface of the first cover, and a side surface of the second cover.

[0209] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle is configured to dispense the cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned in front of the agitator in a spray pattern.

[0210] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle is positioned such that the cleaning fluid dispensed from the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle impacts the surface to be cleaned at a position within 1 cm from the rear wall of the suction nozzle.

[0211] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle includes a first fluid dispensing nozzle and a second fluid dispensing nozzle, the first fluid dispensing nozzle being configured to dispense the cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned in front of the agitator in a first spray pattern, and the second fluid dispensing nozzle being configured to dispense the cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned in front of the agitator in a second spray pattern, wherein the first spray pattern and the second spray pattern overlap at a certain position between the first fluid dispensing nozzle and the second fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0212] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the suction outlet is oriented downwardly relative to a top surface of the suction nozzle to be removably coupled to the internal suction conduit.

[0213] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a connector end of the nozzle disposed adjacent the upright portion is configured to be removably coupled to the base. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the connector end includes a spring biased connector to be removably coupled to the base.

[0214] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the nozzle is configured to be removably coupled to the base adjacent to a front end of the nozzle. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the nozzle includes a first inwardly inclined feature and a second inwardly inclined feature, the first inwardly inclined feature and the second inwardly inclined feature being adjacent to a front end of the nozzle and configured to be removably coupled to a first buckle and a second buckle defined by the frame.

[0215] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the rear wall of the nozzle does not form any part of the agitator cavity.

[0216] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the base further comprises an automatic spray detector responsive to movement of the base and configured to cause dispensing of the cleaning fluid from the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle when the base moves in a forward direction. In some embodiments, when the base moves in a forward direction, the cleaning fluid may be dispensed at a first flow rate, and when the base moves in a rearward direction, the cleaning fluid may be dispensed at a second non-zero flow rate.

[0217] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the base may include an automatic spray detector, which responds to the movement of the base and is configured to cause the cleaning fluid to be dispensed from the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle when the base moves in a forward direction, wherein the automatic spray detector includes: a detector body, which is pivotally connected to the frame; a bottom plate contact member, which extends downward from the bottom of the detector body at a non-zero angle relative to the vertical axis of the detector body to contact the surface to be cleaned; an extension, which extends outward from the side surface of the detector body; and a hammer, which is disposed at the distal end of the extension, the hammer being configured to contact a switch arm of a switch to change the state of the switch when the detector body rotates, and wherein the cleaning fluid is dispensed from the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle in response to the state of the switch.

[0218] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the supply tank includes a receiving portion, and the extractor further includes an additive tank for storing a second cleaning fluid, at least a portion of the additive tank being removably received in the receiving portion.

[0219] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the upright portion defines a support, and wherein the bottom of the recovery tank is removably supported on the support, wherein the outer periphery of the recovery tank depends from the support. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the support defines a retaining wall at a front portion of the support, and wherein the bottom of the recovery tank has a protrusion extending from the bottom to engage the retaining wall.

[0220] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the recovery tank includes a tank body and a cover, the tank body includes a recovery conduit and is configured to hold the recovery fluid; the cover has an outlet fluidically connected to a suction motor, the suction motor generates a suction airflow through the recovery tank, and the cover further includes a float, the float having a buoyancy member configured to float on the recovery fluid and a valve member configured to block the suction airflow when the recovery fluid reaches a full level, the buoyancy member having a flat side surface disposed on only one side of the recovery conduit.

[0221] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the float further includes an arm, and wherein the buoyancy member is disposed at a first end of the arm and the valve member is disposed at a second end of the arm, wherein the arm has tabs extending outwardly from opposite sides of the arm, and the tabs are configured to be received within corresponding grooves in the airflow management body of the cover.

[0222] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the recovery tank comprises a tank body and a cover, the cover having an outlet fluidly coupled to a suction motor, the suction motor generating a suction airflow through the recovery tank, and wherein the recovery tank further comprises a foam filter disposed in a shroud and defining an inlet, and wherein the suction airflow passes through the inlet. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a bottom portion of the shroud is angled inwardly toward the inlet.

[0223] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the recovery tank includes a tank body and a cover, the tank body includes a recovery duct and is configured to hold the recovery fluid, the cover has an outlet fluidically connected to a suction motor, the suction motor generates a suction airflow through the recovery tank, the cover includes an airflow management body, the airflow management body includes a flange extending outward from the airflow management body toward the side wall of the tank body, and the flange is configured to guide the suction airflow from the top of the recovery duct downward toward the bottom of the tank body.

[0224] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extraction cleaner further includes: a flexible hose; a cleaning tool, which is connected to the flexible hose and has a suction inlet, wherein a cleaning tool airflow path extends from the suction inlet through the flexible hose; and at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle, wherein the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle is connected to the cleaning tool.

[0225] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extraction cleaner further includes a suction switching valve, which includes: a base inlet port, the base inlet port is fluidly connected to the base airflow path; a cleaning tool inlet port, the cleaning tool inlet port is fluidly connected to the cleaning tool airflow path; and an outlet port, the outlet port is fluidly connected to the recovery tank, the suction switching valve has a base suction state and a cleaning tool suction state, in the base suction state, the outlet port is fluidly connected to the base inlet port to receive the recovered fluid from the surface to be cleaned into the recovery tank through the base airflow path, and in the cleaning tool suction state, the outlet port is fluidly connected to the cleaning tool inlet port to receive the recovered fluid from the target surface into the recovery tank through the cleaning tool inlet port.

[0226] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the suction switching valve includes: a housing defining the base inlet port, the cleaning tool inlet port, the outlet port, and a rotor cavity; and a rotor rotatably disposed in the rotor cavity and including a plug, the rotor being rotatable between a first orientation and a second orientation, in which the suction switching valve is in the base suction state and the plug blocks fluid communication between the outlet port and the cleaning tool inlet port, and in which the suction switching valve is in the cleaning tool suction state and the plug blocks fluid communication between the outlet port and the base inlet port. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the rotor includes a handle extending outward from the rotor and configured to be manipulated by a user to move the rotor between the first orientation and the second orientation.

[0227] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extraction cleaner further includes a fluid switching valve, which has a base supply state and a cleaning tool supply state. In the base supply state, the cleaning fluid fluid is connected to the base supply pipeline, and in the cleaning tool supply state, the second cleaning fluid fluid is connected to the cleaning tool supply pipeline, and wherein the fluid switching valve is connected to the suction switching valve, whereby when the suction switching valve is placed in the base suction state, the fluid switching valve is placed in the base supply state, and when the section switching valve is placed in the cleaning tool suction state, the fluid switching valve is placed in the cleaning tool supply state.

[0228] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the suction switching valve is coupled to the fluid switching valve by a connecting rod having at least one valve engaging surface to contact at least one valve member to move the fluid switching valve to the base supply state or the cleaning tool supply state.

[0229] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the suction switching valve includes a cam configured to cause linear movement of a cam follower, and wherein the connecting rod is coupled to the cam follower.

[0230] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extraction cleaner further comprises a fluid switching valve, the fluid switching valve having a base supply state and a cleaning tool supply state, in which the cleaning fluid is fluidly coupled to a base supply line, the base supply line being coupled to the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle of the base, and in which the second cleaning fluid is fluidly coupled to a cleaning tool supply line, the cleaning tool supply line being fluidly coupled to the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cleaning fluid is different from the second cleaning fluid.

[0231] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the fluid switching valve includes a first fluid input port, a second fluid input port, a pump output port, a pump input port, a base output port and a cleaning tool output port, the first fluid input port is fluidly connected to receive the cleaning fluid, and the second fluid input port is fluidly connected to receive the second cleaning fluid, the pump output port is connected to the inlet port of the pump, the pump input port is fluidly connected to the outlet of the pump, the base output port is fluidly connected to the base supply pipeline, and the cleaning tool output port is fluidly connected to the cleaning tool supply pipeline.

[0232] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the fluid switching valve includes at least one valve component, wherein when the fluid switching valve is in the base supply state, the at least one valve component fluidically connects the first fluid input port to the pump output port and fluidically connects the pump input port to the base output port, and blocks fluid communication from the second fluid input port to the pump output port and fluid communication from the pump input port to the cleaning tool output port, and when the fluid switching valve is in the cleaning tool supply state, the at least one valve component fluidically connects the second fluid input port to the pump output port and fluidically connects the pump input port to the cleaning tool output port, and blocks fluid communication from the first fluid input port to the pump output port and fluid communication from the pump input port to the base output port.

[0233] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one valve component includes a first valve component disposed in a first chamber and a second valve component disposed in a second chamber, wherein when the first valve component is located in a first position in the first chamber and the second valve component is located in a first position in the second chamber, the fluid switching valve is in the base supply state, and when the first valve component is located in a second position in the first chamber and the second valve component is located in a second position in the second chamber, the fluid switching valve is in the cleaning tool supply state.

[0234] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extraction cleaner further includes a mixing valve, the mixing valve having a first mixing valve inlet, a second mixing valve inlet, a first mixing valve outlet, and a second mixing valve outlet, the first mixing valve inlet, the second mixing valve inlet, and the first mixing valve outlet fluidly connected to a mixing chamber, whereby a first fluid received at the first mixing valve inlet and a second fluid received at the second input port are mixed in the mixing chamber, and a mixture of the first fluid and the second fluid is provided at the first mixing valve outlet, the first mixing valve inlet fluidly connected to the second mixing valve outlet to provide the first fluid received at the first mixing valve inlet at the second mixing valve outlet. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second mixing valve outlet fluidly connected to the first fluid input port of the fluid switching valve, and the first mixing valve outlet fluidly connected to the second fluid input port of the fluid switching valve.

[0235] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extraction cleaner further includes: a flexible hose; a cleaning tool, which is connected to the flexible hose and has a suction inlet, wherein a cleaning tool airflow path extends from the suction inlet through the flexible hose; at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle, which is connected to the cleaning tool; an additive tank, which is used to store a second cleaning fluid; and a valve, which is fluidly connected to the additive tank to control the supply of the second cleaning fluid to the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle or the cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0236] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extraction cleaner further includes a controller configured to control the valve to stop supply of the second cleaning fluid to the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle or the cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle after a predetermined amount of time.

[0237] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extraction cleaner further includes a flow sensor and a controller, the flow sensor being fluidically coupled to an output of the supply tank, the controller being configured to control the valve to stop supply of the second cleaning fluid to the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle or the cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle in response to the output of the flow sensor.

[0238] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extraction cleaner further includes a flow sensor fluidly coupled to an output of an additive tank and a controller configured to illuminate a light in response to the output of the flow sensor to indicate that the second cleaning fluid is being delivered from the additive tank.

[0239] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an extraction cleaner is provided, the extraction cleaner comprising: a base; an upright body, the upright body being pivotally connected to the base; at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle being connected to the base, the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle being configured to directly or indirectly dispense a first fluid onto a surface to be cleaned; a flexible hose; a cleaning tool, the cleaning tool being connected to the flexible hose; and at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle being connected to the cleaning tool, the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle being configured to directly or indirectly dispense a second fluid onto a surface to be cleaned. directly or indirectly distributed onto a target surface; a supply tank for storing a first cleaning fluid; an additive tank for storing a second cleaning fluid; and at least one fluid switching valve, the at least one fluid switching valve being fluidly connected to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle and the at least one cleaning fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one fluid switching valve having a base supply state and a cleaning tool supply state, in the base supply state, the first cleaning fluid is fluidly connected to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, and in the cleaning tool supply state, the second cleaning fluid is fluidly connected to the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0240] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the at least one fluid switching valve is in the base supply state, the second cleaning fluid is not supplied to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0241] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the at least one fluid switching valve is in the cleaning tool supply state, a mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid is supplied to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0242] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second cleaning fluid comprises a boosting fluid having a first pH mixed with a base cleaning fluid having a second pH, wherein the second pH is greater than the first pH. The first pH may be less than or equal to about 4.5, and the second pH may be greater than or equal to about 9. The boosting fluid may comprise hydrogen peroxide.

[0243] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the fluid switching valve includes a first fluid input port, a second fluid input port, a pump output port, a pump input port, a base output port and a cleaning tool output port, the first fluid input port is fluidly connected to receive the first cleaning fluid, and the second fluid input port is fluidly connected to receive the second cleaning fluid, the pump output port is connected to the inlet port of the pump, the pump input port is fluidly connected to the outlet of the pump, the base output port is fluidly connected to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, and the cleaning tool output port is fluidly connected to the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0244] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the fluid switching valve includes at least one valve component, wherein when the fluid switching valve is in the base supply state, the at least one valve component fluidically connects the first fluid input port to the pump output port and fluidically connects the pump input port to the base output port, and blocks fluid communication from the second fluid input port to the pump output port and fluid communication from the pump input port to the cleaning tool output port, and when the fluid switching valve is in the cleaning tool supply state, the at least one valve component fluidically connects the second fluid input port to the pump output port and fluidically connects the pump input port to the cleaning tool output port, and blocks fluid communication from the first fluid input port to the pump output port and fluid communication from the pump input port to the base output port.

[0245] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one valve component includes a first valve component disposed in a first chamber and a second valve component disposed in a second chamber, wherein when the first valve component is located in a first position in the first chamber and the second valve component is located in a first position in the second chamber, the fluid switching valve is in the base supply state, and when the first valve component is located in a second position in the first chamber and the second valve component is located in a second position in the second chamber, the fluid switching valve is in the cleaning tool supply state.

[0246] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extraction cleaner further includes a mixing valve, which has a first mixing valve inlet, a second mixing valve inlet, a first mixing valve outlet, and a second mixing valve outlet, the first mixing valve inlet, the second mixing valve inlet, and the first mixing valve outlet fluidly connected to a mixing chamber, whereby a first fluid received at the first mixing valve inlet and a second fluid received at the second input port are mixed in the mixing chamber, and a mixture of the first fluid and the second fluid is provided at the first mixing valve outlet, the first mixing valve inlet fluidly connected to the second mixing valve outlet to provide the first fluid received at the first mixing valve inlet at the second mixing valve outlet, wherein the second mixing valve outlet fluidly connected to the first fluid input port of the fluid switching valve, and the first mixing valve outlet fluidly connected to the second fluid input port of the fluid switching valve.

[0247] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the base includes a base suction inlet, which is configured to be positioned adjacent to the surface to be cleaned, and wherein the cleaning tool includes a cleaning tool suction inlet, which is configured to be positioned adjacent to the target surface, and the extraction cleaner further includes a recovery tank, which is configured to receive recovery fluid extracted from the surface to be cleaned by suction established at the base suction inlet, or recovered fluid extracted from the target surface by suction established at the cleaning tool suction inlet.

[0248] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extraction cleaner further includes a suction switching valve, which includes: a base inlet port, which is fluidly connected to the base suction inlet; a cleaning tool inlet port, which is fluidly connected to the cleaning tool suction inlet; and an outlet port, which is fluidly connected to the recovery tank, the suction switching valve having a base suction state and a cleaning tool suction state. In the base suction state, the outlet port is fluidly connected to the base inlet port to receive the recovered fluid from the surface to be cleaned into the recovery tank through the base suction inlet, and in the cleaning tool suction state, the outlet port is fluidly connected to the cleaning tool suction inlet to receive the recovered fluid from the target surface into the recovery tank through the cleaning tool inlet port.

[0249] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the suction switching valve includes: a shell, which defines the base inlet port, the cleaning tool inlet port, the outlet port and the rotor cavity; and a rotor, which is rotatably disposed in the rotor cavity and includes a plug, and the rotor can rotate between a first orientation and a second orientation, in which the suction switching valve is in the base suction state and the plug blocks the fluid communication between the outlet port and the cleaning tool inlet port, and in the second orientation, the suction switching valve is in the cleaning tool suction state and the plug blocks the fluid communication between the outlet port and the base inlet port.

[0250] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the rotor includes a handle extending outwardly from the rotor and configured to be manipulated by a user to move the rotor between the first orientation and the second orientation.

[0251] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the upright portion is in an upright position, the suction switching valve is in the cleaning tool suction state, and when the upright portion is tilted from the upright position, the suction switching valve automatically transitions to the base suction state.

[0252] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the fluid switching valve is connected to the suction switching valve, whereby when the suction switching valve is placed in the base suction state, the fluid switching valve is placed in the base supply state, and when the section switching valve is placed in the cleaning tool suction state, the fluid switching valve is placed in the cleaning tool supply state.

[0253] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the suction switching valve is coupled to the fluid switching valve by a connecting rod having at least one valve engaging surface to contact at least one valve member to move the fluid switching valve to the base supply state or the cleaning tool supply state.

[0254] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the suction switching valve includes a cam configured to cause linear movement of a cam follower, and wherein the connecting rod is coupled to the cam follower.

[0255] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an extraction cleaner is provided, the extraction cleaner comprising: a base; an upright body, the upright body being pivotally connected to the base; at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle being connected to the base, the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle being configured to directly or indirectly dispense a first fluid onto a surface to be cleaned; a base suction inlet, the base suction inlet being disposed at the bottom of the base and being configured to be positioned adjacent to the surface to be cleaned; a flexible hose; a cleaning tool, the cleaning tool being connected to the flexible hose; at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle a cleaning tool suction inlet, the cleaning tool suction inlet being disposed at the bottom of the cleaning tool and configured to be positioned adjacent to the target surface; a recovery tank, the recovery tank being configured to receive the recovery fluid extracted from the surface to be cleaned by the suction force established at the base suction inlet or the recovery fluid extracted from the target surface by the suction force established at the cleaning tool suction inlet; a suction switching valve, the suction switching valve The valve comprises: a base inlet port, the base inlet port is fluidly connected to the base suction inlet, a cleaning tool inlet port, the cleaning tool inlet port is fluidly connected to the cleaning tool suction inlet, and an outlet port, the outlet port is fluidly connected to the recovery tank, the suction switching valve has a base suction state and a cleaning tool suction state, in the base suction state, the outlet port is fluidly connected to the base inlet port to receive the recovered fluid from the surface to be cleaned into the recovery tank through the base suction inlet, and in the cleaning tool suction state, the outlet port is fluidly connected to the cleaning tool suction state. a cleaning tool suction inlet to receive the recovered fluid from the target surface into the recovery tank through the cleaning tool inlet port; a supply tank for storing a first cleaning fluid; an additive tank for storing a second cleaning fluid; and at least one fluid switching valve having a base supply state and a cleaning tool supply state, in which the first cleaning fluid is fluidly coupled to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle and in which the second cleaning fluid is fluidly coupled to the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0256] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for operating an extraction cleaner is provided, the extraction cleaner comprising a base portion pivotably connected to an upright body and a cleaning tool connected to a flexible hose, the method comprising: fluidly connecting a first cleaning fluid stored in a supply tank to at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle being connected to the base to directly or indirectly dispense the first cleaning fluid onto a surface to be cleaned; and fluidly connecting a second cleaning fluid stored in an additive tank to at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle being connected to the cleaning tool to directly or indirectly dispense the second cleaning fluid onto a target surface, wherein when the first cleaning fluid is supplied to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, the second cleaning fluid is not supplied to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle.

[0257] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for cleaning carpet or fabric is provided, the method comprising the steps of: providing an aqueous cleaning solution and an aqueous oxidizing solution, wherein the aqueous cleaning solution has a pH>7.0 and comprises water, a metal chelating agent and a carbonate anion (CO 3 2- ) source, and the aqueous oxidizing solution has a pH of <7.0 and includes water and a peroxygen compound. A free radical scavenger is present in the aqueous cleaning solution and / or the aqueous oxidizing solution. Subsequently, the aqueous cleaning solution is mixed with the aqueous oxidizing solution and dispensed on the carpet or fabric. The mixed composition has a pH of 9.0 to 10.0 and includes water, a molar concentration of 5.0x10 -2 Up to 2.1x10 -1 The molar concentration of peroxide is 1.70x10 -3 Up to 5.2x10 -3 The metal chelator has a molar concentration of 1x10 -2 Up to 5.0x10 -2 The carbonate anion (CO 3 2- ) and a molar concentration of 2.0x10 -3 Up to 1.1x10 -1 free radical scavenger.

[0258] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a kit for cleaning carpets or fabrics is provided, the kit comprising: a first water-based cleaning solution, the pH of the first water-based cleaning solution being greater than 7.0, the first water-based cleaning solution comprising water, a metal chelating agent and a water-soluble carbonate anion (CO 3 2-) source; and a second aqueous oxidizing solution, the pH of the second aqueous oxidizing solution being less than 7.0, the second aqueous oxidizing solution comprising water and a peroxygen compound. A free radical scavenger is present in the aqueous cleaning solution and / or the aqueous oxidizing solution. The first aqueous solution and the second aqueous solution are configured to combine and provide an aqueous carpet or fabric cleaning composition, the aqueous carpet or fabric cleaning composition comprising water, a molar concentration of 5.0x10 -2 Up to 2.1x10 -1 The molar concentration of peroxide is 1.70x10 -3 Up to 5.2x10 -3 The metal chelator has a molar concentration of 1x10 -2 Up to 5.0x10 -2 The carbonate anion (CO 3 2- ), the molar concentration is 2.0x10 -3 Up to 1.1x10 -1 A free radical scavenger, wherein the pH of the aqueous carpet or fabric cleaning composition is 9.0 to 10.0.

[0259] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an extraction cleaner is provided, the extraction cleaner comprising: a cleaner body, the cleaner body comprising a pump and a suction motor; a flexible hose, the flexible hose comprising a fluid delivery passage fluidly connected to the pump and a recovery passage fluidly connected to the suction motor; a supply tank, the supply tank being configured to be removably connected to the cleaner body and being configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid delivery passage, the supply tank comprising a relatively alkaline first water-based cleaning solution; an additive tank, the additive tank being configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid delivery passage, the additive tank comprising a relatively acidic second water-based oxidizing solution; a recovery tank, the recovery tank being configured to be removably connected to the cleaner body and being configured to be fluidly connected to the recovery passage; and a cleaning tool, the cleaning tool being configured to be fluidly connected to the supply tank, the additive tank and the recovery tank.

[0260] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an extraction cleaner is provided, which includes: a cleaner body, the cleaner body including a pump and a suction motor; a supply line and an air flow path, the supply line being fluidly connected to the pump, and the air flow path being fluidly connected to the suction motor; a supply tank, the supply tank being configured to be removably connected to the cleaner body and being fluidly connected to the supply line, the supply tank including a relatively alkaline first water-based cleaning solution; an additive tank, the additive tank being configured to be fluidly connected to the supply line, the additive tank including a relatively acidic second water-based oxidizing solution; and a recovery tank, the recovery tank being configured to be removably connected to the cleaner body and being fluidly connected to the air flow path.

[0261] In some cases, the first aqueous cleaning solution and the second aqueous oxidizing solution can be mixed to form an aqueous cleaning composition before being applied to the surface to be cleaned. In some cases, the aqueous cleaning composition can include water, a molar concentration of 5.0x10 -2 Up to 2.1x10 -1 The molar concentration of peroxide is 1.70x10 -3 Up to 5.2x10 -3 The metal chelator has a molar concentration of 1x10 -2 Up to 5.0x10 -2 The carbonate anion (CO 3 2- ), the molar concentration is 2.0x10 -3 Up to 1.1x10 -1 The free radical scavenger of the present invention is a free radical scavenger, and wherein the pH of the composition is 9.0 to 10.0. In some cases, the peroxy compound may include hydrogen peroxide. In some cases, the peroxy compound may include sodium peroxide or urea hydrogen peroxide. In some cases, the peroxy compound may include alkyl hydroperoxide or aryl hydroperoxide. In some cases, the free radical scavenger may be selected from the group consisting of glycine, sarcosine, lysine, serine, glutamic acid and a mixture thereof. In some cases, the free radical scavenger may be selected from the group consisting of 2-methoxyethylamine, glucosamine, morpholine, piperidine, ethylamine and 3-amino-1-propanol and a mixture thereof. In some cases, the metal chelator may have a relatively higher binding affinity for transition metals than divalent calcium ions and divalent magnesium ions. In some cases, the metal chelator may include ethylenediamine-N, N'-disuccinic acid.

[0262] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a water-based carpet or fabric cleaning composition, the water-based carpet or fabric cleaning composition comprising water, a molar concentration of 5.0×10 -2Up to 2.1x10 -1 The molar concentration of peroxide is 1.70x10 -3 Up to 5.2x10 -3 The metal chelator has a molar concentration of 1x10 -2 Up to 5.0x10 -2 The carbonate anion (CO 3 2- ), the molar concentration is 2.0x10 -3 Up to 1.1x10 -1 A free radical scavenger, and wherein the pH of the composition is 9.0 to 10.0.

[0263] In some cases, the peroxy compound may include hydrogen peroxide. In some cases, the peroxy compound may include sodium peroxide or urea hydrogen peroxide. In some cases, the peroxy compound may include alkyl hydroperoxide or aryl hydroperoxide. In some cases, the free radical scavenger may be selected from the group consisting of: glycine, sarcosine, lysine, serine, glutamic acid and mixtures thereof. In some cases, the free radical scavenger may be selected from the group consisting of: 2-methoxyethylamine, glucosamine, morpholine, piperidine, ethylamine and 3-amino-1-propanol and mixtures thereof. In some cases, compared to divalent calcium ions and divalent magnesium ions, the metal chelator may have a relatively higher binding affinity to transition metals. In some cases, the metal chelator may include ethylenediamine-N, N'-disuccinic acid.

[0264] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for cleaning carpet or fabric is provided, the method comprising the steps of: providing an aqueous cleaning solution and an aqueous oxidizing solution, wherein the aqueous cleaning solution has a pH>7.0 and comprises water, a metal chelating agent and a water-soluble carbonate anion (CO 3 2- ) source, and the pH of the aqueous oxidizing solution is less than 7.0 and includes water and a peroxygen compound, and a free radical scavenger is present in the aqueous cleaning solution and / or the aqueous oxidizing solution; the aqueous cleaning solution is mixed with the aqueous oxidizing solution and distributed on the carpet or fabric, wherein the mixed composition has a pH of 9.0 to 10.0 and includes water, a molar concentration of 5.0x10 -2 Up to 2.1x10 -1 The molar concentration of peroxide is 1.70x10 -3 Up to 5.2x10 -3 The metal chelator has a molar concentration of 1x10 -2 Up to 5.0x10 -2 The carbonate anion (CO 3 2- ) and a molar concentration of 2.0x10-3 Up to 1.1x10 -1 free radical scavenger.

[0265] In some cases, the peroxy compound may include hydrogen peroxide. In some cases, the peroxy compound may include sodium peroxide, urea hydrogen peroxide or a mixture thereof. In some cases, the peroxy compound may include alkyl hydroperoxide or aryl hydroperoxide. In some cases, the free radical scavenger may be selected from the group consisting of: glycine, sarcosine, lysine, serine, glutamic acid and a mixture thereof. In some cases, the free radical scavenger may be selected from the group consisting of: 2-methoxyethylamine, glucosamine, morpholine, piperidine, ethylamine and 3-amino-1-propanol and a mixture thereof. In some cases, the metal chelator may have a relatively higher binding affinity to transition metals than divalent calcium ions and divalent magnesium ions. In some cases, the metal chelator may include ethylenediamine-N, N'-disuccinic acid. In some cases, the water-soluble carbonate anion source may include alkali carbonate or alkali bicarbonate. In some cases, the carbonate anion source can be selected from the group consisting of sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, and sodium carbonate.

[0266] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a kit for cleaning carpets or fabrics is provided, the kit comprising: a first water-based cleaning solution, the pH of the first water-based cleaning solution being greater than 7.0, the first water-based cleaning solution comprising water, a metal chelating agent and a water-soluble carbonate anion (CO 3 2- ) source; a second aqueous oxidizing solution, the pH of the second aqueous oxidizing solution is less than 7.0, the second aqueous oxidizing solution comprises water and a peroxy compound, a free radical scavenger is present in the aqueous cleaning solution and / or the aqueous oxidizing solution, wherein the first aqueous solution and the second aqueous solution are configured to combine and provide an aqueous carpet or fabric cleaning composition, the composition comprising water, a molar concentration of 5.0x10 -2 Up to 2.1x10 -1 The molar concentration of peroxide is 1.70x10 -3 Up to 5.2x10 -3 The metal chelator has a molar concentration of 1x10 -2 Up to 5.0x10 -2 The carbonate anion (CO 3 2- ), the molar concentration is 2.0x10 -3 Up to 1.1x10 -1 A free radical scavenger, and wherein the pH of the aqueous carpet or fabric cleaning composition is from 9.0 to 10.0.

[0267] In some cases, the peroxy compound may comprise hydrogen peroxide. In some cases, the radical scavenger may be selected from the group consisting of: glycine, sarcosine, lysine, serine, glutamic acid and mixtures thereof. In some cases, the radical scavenger may be selected from the group consisting of: 2-methoxyethylamine, glucosamine, morpholine, piperidine, ethylamine and 3-amino-1-propanol and mixtures thereof. In some cases, the metal chelator may have a relatively higher binding affinity to transition metals than divalent calcium ions and divalent magnesium ions. In some cases, the metal chelator may comprise ethylenediamine-N, N'-disuccinic acid. In some cases, the water-soluble carbonate anion source may comprise alkali carbonate or alkali bicarbonate.

[0268] The foregoing description of example embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited by this detailed description, but rather by the claims appended hereto. Future filed applications claiming priority to the present application may claim the disclosed subject matter in various ways, and may generally include any set of one or more limitations as variously disclosed or otherwise demonstrated herein.

[0269] Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only, and within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents, the present invention may be practiced in a manner different from that specifically described and required. The present invention relates to each individual feature, aspect, embodiment, system, product, material, kit and / or method described herein. In addition, if two or more such features, aspects, embodiments, systems, products, materials, kits and / or methods are not mutually contradictory, any combination of such features, aspects, embodiments, systems, products, materials, kits and / or methods is included within the scope of the present invention.

[0270] The functions of the various elements shown in the drawings (including any functional blocks marked as controllers or processors) can be provided by using dedicated hardware and hardware capable of executing software associated with appropriate software. The functions can be provided by a single dedicated processor, a single shared processor, or multiple separate processors (some of which can be shared). In addition, the explicit use of the term controller or processor should not be interpreted as referring exclusively to hardware capable of executing software, and may implicitly include (without limitation) digital signal processor (DSP) hardware, network processors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), read-only memories (ROMs), random access memories (RAMs), and non-volatile storage devices for storing software. Other conventional and / or customized hardware may also be included.

[0271] As used herein in the specification and claims, the phrase "and / or" should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so combined (i.e., elements that are present in combination in some cases and separate in other cases). Unless explicitly stated to the contrary, other elements may optionally be present in addition to the elements specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.

[0272] The term "coupled" as used herein refers to any connection, coupling, link, etc. that conveys a signal carried by one system element to a "coupled" element. Such "coupled" devices or signals and devices are not necessarily directly connected to each other, but may be separated by intermediate components or devices that can manipulate or modify such signals. Likewise, the terms "connected" or "coupled" as used herein with respect to a mechanical or physical connection or coupling are relative terms and do not require a direct physical connection.

[0273] Unless otherwise specified herein, elements, components, modules and / or parts thereof described by the drawings and / or otherwise depicted as communicating, associated with or based upon others may be understood to be communicating, associated with and / or based upon therewith in a direct and / or indirect manner.

[0274] Unless otherwise stated, the use of the word "substantially" may be interpreted as including the precise relationships, conditions, arrangements, orientations and / or other characteristics understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, and deviations thereof, to the extent that the deviations do not have a substantial effect on the disclosed methods and systems. Throughout the entire disclosure, unless otherwise specifically stated, the use of the articles "a and / or an" and / or "the" to modify a noun may be understood to be for convenience and to include one or more than one modified noun. The terms "include," "comprise," and "have" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements in addition to the listed elements.

[0275] As used herein, use of the term "nominal" or "nominally" when referring to an amount means a specified or theoretical amount that can vary from the actual amount.

[0276] Spatially relative terms such as "below", "below", "upper", "lower", "above", "left side", "right side", etc. may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as shown in the drawings. In addition to the orientation shown in the drawings, these spatially relative terms are also intended to cover different orientations of the device when in use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is inverted, the elements described as being "below" or "below" other elements or features will be oriented to be "above" the other elements or features. Therefore, the exemplary term "below" can cover both above and below orientations. The device can be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein can be interpreted in a corresponding manner.

[0277] Although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. can be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections are not limited by these terms because they are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Therefore, without departing from the scope and teachings of the present invention, a first element, component, region, layer or section can be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer or section.

[0278] Although the methods and systems have been described with respect to their specific embodiments, the methods and systems are not limited thereto. Obviously, many modifications and variations may become apparent in light of the above teachings. Those skilled in the art may make many additional changes to the details, materials, and arrangements of the parts described and illustrated herein.

Claims

1. An extraction cleaner, characterized in that: The extraction cleaner comprises: A base, the base comprising: frame; a door non-removably coupled to the frame, the door comprising a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface of the door defining at least a portion of an agitator cavity; at least one fluid dispensing nozzle coupled to the door and exposed at a bottom surface of the door, the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle configured to dispense a cleaning fluid directly or indirectly onto a surface to be cleaned; a suction nozzle removably coupled to the base and having a front wall, a rear wall, and a nozzle passage defined therebetween, the rear wall being positioned in opposing relation to the top surface of the door, the nozzle passage having a suction inlet and a suction outlet, the suction inlet being configured to be positioned adjacent the surface to be cleaned, the suction outlet being configured to be removably coupled to an internal suction duct of the base to at least partially define a base airflow path extending from the suction inlet through the base; an upright body pivotably coupled to the base; an agitator disposed in the agitator chamber and configured to agitate the surface to be cleaned; a supply tank for storing the cleaning fluid; and A recovery tank is configured to receive recovery fluid drawn from the surface to be cleaned by suction established at the suction inlet.

2. The extraction cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that The door is pivotally coupled to the frame to pivot between a closed position in which the agitator is inaccessible from a top of the base and an open position in which the agitator is accessible from a top of the base.

3. The extraction cleaner according to claim 2, characterized in that The door is pivotally coupled to the frame by first and second pivot pins extending outwardly from opposing side surfaces of the door into associated sides of the frame.

4. The extraction cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that The bottom surface of the door defines a front wall and at least a portion of a top wall of the agitator cavity.

5. The extraction cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that The base also includes at least one inlet port extending through an associated opening in the door, the inlet port being fluidly coupled to a base supply line below a bottom surface of the door and to a supply tube above a top surface of the door, the supply tube being fluidly coupled to the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle.

6. The extraction cleaner according to claim 5, characterized in that The door is pivotally coupled to the frame to pivot between a closed position and an open position, wherein the agitator is inaccessible from the top of the base and the agitator is accessible from the top of the base, and wherein the inlet port is removably fluidly coupled to the base supply line, whereby when the door is moved to the closed position, the inlet port is fluidly coupled to the base supply line, and when the door is moved to the open position, the inlet port is decoupled from the base supply line.

7. The extraction cleaner according to claim 5, characterized in that The base also includes at least one cover disposed on the top surface of the door and over at least a portion of the fluid dispensing nozzle, the supply tube, and the inlet port.

8. The extraction cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that The door includes an opening therein, and the base airflow path extends from the suction inlet through the opening.

9. The extraction cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that The at least one fluid dispensing nozzle includes a first fluid dispensing nozzle and a second fluid dispensing nozzle, and wherein the base also includes a first inlet port and a second inlet port, the first inlet port and the second inlet port are each fluidly connected to a base supply line below the bottom surface of the door, the first inlet port is fluidly connected to a first supply tube above the top surface of the door, and the second inlet port is fluidly connected to a second supply tube above the top surface of the door, the first supply tube and the second supply tube are fluidly connected to the first fluid dispensing nozzle and the second fluid dispensing nozzle.

10. The extraction cleaner according to claim 9, characterized in that The base also includes: a first cover, which is disposed on the top surface of the door and above at least a portion of the first fluid dispensing nozzle, the first supply tube and the first inlet port; and a second cover, which is disposed on the top surface of the door and above at least a portion of the second fluid dispensing nozzle, the second supply tube and the second inlet port.

11. The extraction cleaner according to claim 10, characterized in that At least a portion of the suction nozzle is received in a cavity defined by a top surface of the door, a side surface of the first cover, and a side surface of the second cover.

12. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The at least one fluid dispensing nozzle is configured to dispense the cleaning fluid in a spray pattern onto the surface to be cleaned in front of the agitator.

13. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The at least one fluid dispensing nozzle is positioned such that the cleaning fluid dispensed from the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle impacts the surface to be cleaned at a position within 1.5 cm from a rear wall of the suction nozzle.

14. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The at least one fluid dispensing nozzle includes a first fluid dispensing nozzle and a second fluid dispensing nozzle, wherein the first fluid dispensing nozzle is configured to dispense the cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned in front of the agitator in a first spray pattern, and the second fluid dispensing nozzle is configured to dispense the cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned in front of the agitator in a second spray pattern, wherein the first spray pattern and the second spray pattern overlap or are spaced apart by 5 mm or less at a certain position between the first fluid dispensing nozzle and the second fluid dispensing nozzle.

15. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The suction outlet is oriented downwardly relative to a top surface of the suction nozzle to be removably coupled to the internal suction conduit.

16. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: A connector end of the nozzle disposed adjacent the upright body is configured to be removably coupled to the base.

17. The extraction cleaner of claim 16, wherein: The connector end includes a spring biased connector to removably couple to the base.

18. The extraction cleaner of claim 16, wherein: The nozzle is configured to be removably coupled to the base adjacent a front end of the nozzle.

19. The extraction cleaner of claim 16, wherein: The nozzle includes first and second inwardly inclined features adjacent a front end of the nozzle and configured to removably couple to first and second catches defined by the frame.

20. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The rear wall of the nozzle does not form any part of the agitator cavity.

21. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The base also includes an automatic spray detector responsive to movement of the base and configured to cause dispensing of the cleaning fluid from the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle when the base moves in a forward direction.

22. The extraction cleaner of claim 21, wherein: When the base moves in a forward direction, the cleaning fluid is dispensed at a first flow rate, and when the base moves in a rearward direction, the cleaning fluid is dispensed at a second, non-zero flow rate.

23. The extraction cleaner of claim 21, wherein: The automatic spray detector includes: a detector body, which is pivotally connected to the frame; a bottom plate contact member, which extends downward from the bottom of the detector body to contact the surface to be cleaned; and a hammer, which is configured to contact a switch arm of a switch to change the state of the switch when the detector body is rotated, and wherein the cleaning fluid is dispensed from the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle in response to the state of the switch.

24. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The supply tank includes a receptacle, and the extraction cleaner further includes an additive tank for storing a second cleaning fluid, at least a portion of the additive tank being removably received in the receptacle.

25. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The upright body defines a support, and wherein a bottom portion of the recovery tank is removably supported on the support, wherein an outer perimeter of the recovery tank depends from the support.

26. The extraction cleaner of claim 25, wherein: The support defines a retaining wall at a front portion of the support, and wherein a bottom portion of the recovery tank has a projection extending from the bottom portion to engage the retaining wall.

27. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The recovery tank includes a tank body and a cover, the tank body including a recovery conduit and configured to hold the recovery fluid; the cover has an outlet fluidically connected to a suction motor, the suction motor generates a suction airflow through the recovery tank, the cover also includes a float, the float has a buoyancy member configured to float on the recovery fluid and a valve member configured to block the suction airflow when the recovery fluid reaches a full level, the buoyancy member having a flat side surface disposed on only one side of the recovery conduit.

28. The extraction cleaner of claim 27, wherein: The float also includes an arm, and wherein the buoyancy member is disposed at a first end of the arm and the valve member is disposed at a second end of the arm, wherein the arm has tabs extending outwardly from opposite sides of the arm, the tabs being configured to be received within corresponding slots in the airflow management body of the cover.

29. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The recovery tank includes a tank body and a cover, wherein the cover has an outlet fluidly connected to a suction motor, the suction motor generates a suction airflow through the recovery tank, and wherein the recovery tank also includes a foam filter, the foam filter is disposed in the shield and defines an inlet, and wherein the suction airflow passes through the inlet.

30. The extraction cleaner of claim 29, wherein: A bottom portion of the shroud is angled inwardly toward the inlet.

31. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The recovery tank includes a tank body and a cover, the tank body includes a recovery duct and is configured to hold the recovery fluid, the cover has an outlet fluidically connected to a suction motor, the suction motor generates a suction airflow through the recovery tank, the cover includes an airflow management body, the airflow management body includes a flange extending outward from the airflow management body toward the side wall of the tank body, the flange is configured to guide the suction airflow from the top of the recovery duct downward toward the bottom of the tank body.

32. The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The extraction cleaner also includes: Flexible hose; a cleaning tool coupled to the flexible hose and having a suction inlet, wherein a cleaning tool airflow path extends from the suction inlet through the flexible hose; and At least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle is coupled to the cleaning tool.

33. The extraction cleaner of claim 32, wherein: The extraction cleaner further comprises a suction switching valve, wherein the suction switching valve comprises: a base inlet port fluidly coupled to the base airflow path; a cleaning tool inlet port fluidly coupled to the cleaning tool airflow path; and an outlet port, the outlet port being fluidly coupled to the recovery tank, The suction switching valve has a base suction state and a cleaning tool suction state. In the base suction state, the outlet port fluid is connected to the base inlet port to receive the recovered fluid from the surface to be cleaned into the recovery tank through the base airflow path. In the cleaning tool suction state, the outlet port fluid is connected to the cleaning tool inlet port to receive the recovered fluid from the target surface into the recovery tank through the cleaning tool inlet port.

34. The extraction cleaner of claim 33, wherein: The suction switching valve comprises: a housing defining the base inlet port, the cleaning tool inlet port, the outlet port, and a rotor cavity; and A rotor rotatably disposed in the rotor cavity and including a plug, the rotor being rotatable between a first orientation in which the suction switching valve is in the base suction state and the plug blocks fluid communication between the outlet port and the cleaning tool inlet port, and a second orientation in which the suction switching valve is in the cleaning tool suction state and the plug blocks fluid communication between the outlet port and the base inlet port.

35. The extraction cleaner of claim 34, wherein: The rotor includes a handle extending outwardly from the rotor and configured to be manipulated by a user to move the rotor between the first orientation and the second orientation.

36. The extraction cleaner of claim 33, wherein: When the upright body is in an upright position, the suction switching valve is in the cleaning tool suction state, and when the upright body is tilted from the upright position, the suction switching valve is automatically switched to the base suction state.

37. The extraction cleaner of claim 33, wherein: The extraction cleaner also includes a fluid switching valve, which has a base supply state and a cleaning tool supply state. In the base supply state, the cleaning fluid fluid is connected to the base supply pipeline, and in the cleaning tool supply state, the second cleaning fluid fluid is connected to the cleaning tool supply pipeline, and wherein the fluid switching valve is connected to the suction switching valve, whereby when the suction switching valve is placed in the base suction state, the fluid switching valve is placed in the base supply state, and when the suction switching valve is placed in the cleaning tool suction state, the fluid switching valve is placed in the cleaning tool supply state.

38. The extraction cleaner of claim 37, wherein: The suction switching valve is coupled to the fluid switching valve by a connecting rod having at least one valve engagement surface to contact at least one valve member to move the fluid switching valve to the base supply state or the cleaning tool supply state.

39. The extraction cleaner of claim 38, wherein: The suction switching valve includes a cam configured to cause linear movement of a cam follower, and wherein the connecting rod is coupled to the cam follower.

40. The extraction cleaner of claim 32, wherein: The extraction cleaner also includes a fluid switching valve, which has a base supply state and a cleaning tool supply state. In the base supply state, the cleaning fluid is fluidly connected to the base supply pipeline, and the base supply pipeline is connected to at least one fluid dispensing nozzle of the base. In the cleaning tool supply state, a second cleaning fluid is fluidly connected to the cleaning tool supply pipeline, and the cleaning tool supply pipeline is fluidly connected to the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle.

41. The extraction cleaner of claim 40, wherein: The cleaning fluid is different from the second cleaning fluid.

42. The extraction cleaner of claim 40, wherein: The fluid switching valve includes a first fluid input port, a second fluid input port, a pump output port, a pump input port, a base output port and a cleaning tool output port, wherein the first fluid input port is fluidly connected to receive the cleaning fluid, and the second fluid input port is fluidly connected to receive the second cleaning fluid, the pump output port is connected to the inlet port of the pump, the pump input port is fluidly connected to the outlet of the pump, the base output port is fluidly connected to the base supply pipeline, and the cleaning tool output port is fluidly connected to the cleaning tool supply pipeline.

43. The extraction cleaner of claim 42, wherein: The fluid switching valve includes at least one valve member, wherein when the fluid switching valve is in the base supply state, the at least one valve member fluidly couples the first fluid input port to the pump output port and the pump input port to the base output port, and blocks fluid communication from the second fluid input port to the pump output port and from the pump input port to the cleaning tool output port, and When the fluid switching valve is in the cleaning tool supply state, the at least one valve member fluidically connects the second fluid input port to the pump output port and fluidically connects the pump input port to the cleaning tool output port, and blocks fluid communication from the first fluid input port to the pump output port and from the pump input port to the base output port.

44. The extraction cleaner of claim 43, wherein: The at least one valve component includes a first valve component disposed in a first chamber and a second valve component disposed in a second chamber, wherein when the first valve component is located in a first position in the first chamber and the second valve component is located in a first position in the second chamber, the fluid switching valve is in the base supply state, and when the first valve component is located in a second position in the first chamber and the second valve component is located in a second position in the second chamber, the fluid switching valve is in the cleaning tool supply state.

45. The extraction cleaner of claim 42, wherein: The extraction cleaner also includes a mixing valve having a first mixing valve inlet, a second mixing valve inlet, a first mixing valve outlet, and a second mixing valve outlet, the first mixing valve inlet, the second mixing valve inlet, and the first mixing valve outlet fluidly connected to a mixing chamber, whereby a first fluid received at the first mixing valve inlet and a second fluid received at the second fluid input port are mixed in the mixing chamber and a mixture of the first fluid and the second fluid is provided at the first mixing valve outlet, the first mixing valve inlet fluidly connected to the second mixing valve outlet to provide the first fluid received at the first mixing valve inlet at the second mixing valve outlet, wherein the second mixing valve outlet fluidly connected to the first fluid input port of the fluid switching valve, and the first mixing valve outlet fluidly connected to the second fluid input port of the fluid switching valve.

46. ​​The extraction cleaner of claim 1, wherein: The extraction cleaner also includes: Flexible hose; a cleaning tool coupled to the flexible hose and having a suction inlet, wherein an airflow path of the cleaning tool extends from the suction inlet through the flexible hose; at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle coupled to the cleaning tool; an additive tank for storing a second cleaning fluid; and At least one valve is fluidly coupled to the additive tank to control the supply of the second cleaning fluid to the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle or the cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle.

47. The extraction cleaner of claim 46, wherein: The extraction cleaner also includes a controller configured to control the valve to stop supply of the second cleaning fluid to the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle or the cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle after a predetermined amount of time.

48. The extraction cleaner of claim 46, wherein: The extraction cleaner also includes a flow sensor fluidly coupled to an output of the supply tank and a controller configured to control the valve to stop supply of the second cleaning fluid to the at least one fluid dispensing nozzle or the cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle in response to the output of the flow sensor.

49. The extraction cleaner of claim 46, wherein: The extraction cleaner also includes a flow sensor fluidly coupled to an output of the additive tank and a controller configured to illuminate a light in response to the output of the flow sensor to indicate that the second cleaning fluid is being delivered from the additive tank.

50. An extraction cleaner, characterized in that: The extraction cleaner comprises: base; an upright body pivotably coupled to the base; at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle coupled to the base, the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle configured to dispense a first fluid directly or indirectly onto a surface to be cleaned; Flexible hose; a cleaning tool coupled to the flexible hose; at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle coupled to the cleaning tool, the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle configured to dispense a second fluid directly or indirectly onto a target surface; a supply tank for storing a first cleaning fluid; and An additive tank for storing a second cleaning fluid; and at least one fluid switching valve, wherein the at least one fluid switching valve is fluidly connected to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle and the at least one cleaning fluid dispensing nozzle, the at least one fluid switching valve having a base supply state and a cleaning tool supply state, in which the first cleaning fluid is fluidly connected to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, and in the cleaning tool supply state, the second cleaning fluid is fluidly connected to the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle.

51. The extraction cleaner of claim 50, wherein: When the at least one fluid switching valve is in the base supply state, the second cleaning fluid is not supplied to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle.

52. The extraction cleaner of claim 50, wherein: When the at least one fluid switching valve is in the cleaning tool supply state, a mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid is supplied to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle.

53. The extraction cleaner of claim 50, wherein: The second cleaning fluid includes a boost fluid having a first pH mixed with a base cleaning fluid having a second pH, wherein the second pH is greater than the first pH.

54. The extraction cleaner of claim 53, wherein: The first pH is less than or equal to 4.5, and the second pH is greater than or equal to 9.

55. The extraction cleaner of claim 53, wherein: The enhancement fluid includes hydrogen peroxide.

56. The extraction cleaner of claim 50, wherein: The fluid switching valve includes a first fluid input port, a second fluid input port, a pump output port, a pump input port, a base output port and a cleaning tool output port, wherein the first fluid input port is fluidically connected to receive the first cleaning fluid, and the second fluid input port is fluidically connected to receive the second cleaning fluid, the pump output port is connected to the inlet port of the pump, the pump input port is fluidically connected to the outlet of the pump, the base output port is fluidically connected to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, and the cleaning tool output port is fluidically connected to the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle.

57. The extraction cleaner of claim 56, wherein: The fluid switching valve includes at least one valve member, wherein when the fluid switching valve is in the base supply state, the at least one valve member fluidly couples the first fluid input port to the pump output port and the pump input port to the base output port, and blocks fluid communication from the second fluid input port to the pump output port and from the pump input port to the cleaning tool output port, and When the fluid switching valve is in the cleaning tool supply state, the at least one valve member fluidically connects the second fluid input port to the pump output port and fluidically connects the pump input port to the cleaning tool output port, and blocks fluid communication from the first fluid input port to the pump output port and from the pump input port to the base output port.

58. The extraction cleaner of claim 57, wherein: The at least one valve component includes a first valve component disposed in a first chamber and a second valve component disposed in a second chamber, wherein when the first valve component is located in a first position in the first chamber and the second valve component is located in a first position in the second chamber, the fluid switching valve is in the base supply state, and when the first valve component is located in a second position in the first chamber and the second valve component is located in a second position in the second chamber, the fluid switching valve is in the cleaning tool supply state.

59. The extraction cleaner of claim 56, wherein: The extraction cleaner also includes a mixing valve having a first mixing valve inlet, a second mixing valve inlet, a first mixing valve outlet, and a second mixing valve outlet, wherein the first mixing valve inlet, the second mixing valve inlet, and the first mixing valve outlet are fluidly connected to a mixing chamber, whereby a first fluid received at the first mixing valve inlet and a second fluid received at the second fluid input port are mixed in the mixing chamber and a mixture of the first fluid and the second fluid is provided at the first mixing valve outlet, the first mixing valve inlet is fluidly connected to the second mixing valve outlet to provide the first fluid received at the first mixing valve inlet at the second mixing valve outlet, wherein the second mixing valve outlet is fluidly connected to the first fluid input port of the fluid switching valve, and the first mixing valve outlet is fluidly connected to the second fluid input port of the fluid switching valve.

60. The extraction cleaner of claim 50, wherein: The base includes a base suction inlet configured to be positioned adjacent the surface to be cleaned, and wherein the cleaning tool includes a cleaning tool suction inlet configured to be positioned adjacent the target surface, the extraction cleaner further comprising a recovery tank configured to receive recovery fluid extracted from the surface to be cleaned by suction established at the base suction inlet, or recovered fluid extracted from the target surface by suction established at the cleaning tool suction inlet.

61. The extraction cleaner of claim 60, wherein: The extraction cleaner further comprises a suction switching valve, wherein the suction switching valve comprises: a base inlet port fluidly coupled to the base suction inlet; a cleaning tool inlet port fluidly coupled to the cleaning tool suction inlet; and an outlet port fluidly coupled to the recovery tank, The suction switching valve has a base suction state and a cleaning tool suction state. In the base suction state, the outlet port is fluidly connected to the base inlet port to receive the recovered fluid from the surface to be cleaned into the recovery tank through the base suction inlet. In the cleaning tool suction state, the outlet port is fluidly connected to the cleaning tool suction inlet to receive the recovered fluid from the target surface into the recovery tank through the cleaning tool inlet port.

62. The extraction cleaner of claim 61, wherein: The suction switching valve comprises: a housing defining the base inlet port, the cleaning tool inlet port, the outlet port, and a rotor cavity; and A rotor rotatably disposed in the rotor cavity and including a plug, the rotor being rotatable between a first orientation in which the suction switching valve is in the base suction state and the plug blocks fluid communication between the outlet port and the cleaning tool inlet port, and a second orientation in which the suction switching valve is in the cleaning tool suction state and the plug blocks fluid communication between the outlet port and the base inlet port.

63. The extraction cleaner of claim 62, wherein: The rotor includes a handle extending outwardly from the rotor and configured to be manipulated by a user to move the rotor between the first orientation and the second orientation.

64. The extraction cleaner of claim 61, wherein: When the upright body is in an upright position, the suction switching valve is in the cleaning tool suction state, and when the upright body is tilted from the upright position, the suction switching valve is automatically switched to the base suction state.

65. The extraction cleaner of claim 61, wherein: The fluid switching valve is connected to the suction switching valve, so that when the suction switching valve is placed in the base suction state, the fluid switching valve is placed in the base supply state, and when the suction switching valve is placed in the cleaning tool suction state, the fluid switching valve is placed in the cleaning tool supply state.

66. The extraction cleaner of claim 65, wherein: The suction switching valve is coupled to the fluid switching valve by a connecting rod having at least one valve engagement surface to contact at least one valve member to move the fluid switching valve to the base supply state or the cleaning tool supply state.

67. The extraction cleaner of claim 66, wherein: The suction switching valve includes a cam configured to cause linear movement of a cam follower, and wherein the connecting rod is coupled to the cam follower.

68. An extraction cleaner, characterized in that: The extraction cleaner comprises: base; an upright body pivotably coupled to the base; at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle coupled to the base, the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle configured to dispense a first fluid directly or indirectly onto a surface to be cleaned; a base suction inlet disposed at a bottom of the base and configured to be positioned adjacent the surface to be cleaned; Flexible hose; a cleaning tool coupled to the flexible hose; at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle coupled to the cleaning tool, the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle configured to dispense a second fluid directly or indirectly onto a target surface; a cleaning tool suction inlet disposed at a bottom portion of the cleaning tool and configured to be positioned adjacent the target surface; a recovery tank configured to receive recovery fluid extracted from the surface to be cleaned by suction established at the base suction inlet or recovery fluid extracted from the target surface by suction established at the cleaning tool suction inlet; A suction switching valve, the suction switching valve comprising: a base inlet port fluidly coupled to the base suction inlet, a cleaning tool inlet port fluidly coupled to the cleaning tool suction inlet, and an outlet port, the outlet port being fluidly coupled to the recovery tank, The suction switching valve has a base suction state and a cleaning tool suction state, in which the outlet port is fluidly coupled to the base inlet port to receive recovered fluid from the target surface through the base suction inlet into the recovery tank, and in the cleaning tool suction state, the outlet port is fluidly coupled to the cleaning tool suction inlet to receive recovered fluid from the target surface through the cleaning tool inlet port into the recovery tank; a supply tank for storing a first cleaning fluid; an additive tank for storing a second cleaning fluid; and At least one fluid switching valve, the at least one fluid switching valve having a base supply state and a cleaning tool supply state. In the base supply state, the first cleaning fluid is fluidly connected to the at least one base fluid dispensing nozzle, and in the cleaning tool supply state, the second cleaning fluid is fluidly connected to the at least one cleaning tool fluid dispensing nozzle.

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