Wet / dry vacuum tool, wet / dry containment vacuum tool for cooperating with different wet / dry vacuum tools, and cooperating wet / dry vacuum tool set

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to wet / dry vacuum tools, wet / dry containment vacuum tools for cooperating with different wet / dry vacuum tools, and cooperating wet / dry vacuum tool sets. In one example, a first wet / dry fracture tool is provided that may be coupled to a vacuum source and a cleaning fluid source. The first tool includes a vacuum orifice and a cleaning fluid nozzle assembly coupled to a cleaning fluid actuation mechanism to controllably deliver cleaning fluid to a target area to be cleaned. The vacuum orifice and the cleaning fluid nozzle assembly are configured to sealingly interface with another cooperating tool. The first tool includes a latch mechanism and a tolerance track to enable the first tool to be securely coupled to another cooperating tool, such as a liquid containing tool.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to wet / dry vacuum tools, and more particularly to cooperative wet / dry vacuum tools. Background Art

[0002] Typically, conventional cleaning devices such as dry vacuum cleaners and wet vacuum cleaners perform cleaning operations using suction to suck up debris and waste. Utility Model Content

[0003] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a wet / dry vacuum tool. The wet / dry vacuum tool includes: a tool body including a gripping region, the gripping region configured to be coupled to a vacuum source and a cleaning fluid source; the tool body also includes a wet / dry cleaning region disposed opposite an end of the gripping region. The wet / dry cleaning region includes: a cleaning fluid nozzle assembly, the cleaning fluid nozzle assembly including a fluid nozzle and a flange ring surrounding the fluid nozzle, wherein the fluid nozzle is fluidically coupled to the cleaning fluid source, and the flange ring is configured to be sealingly coupled to a different wet / dry vacuum tool; a controllable fluid delivery actuator for controllably coupling and decoupling the cleaning fluid source from the fluid nozzle; and a vacuum orifice, the vacuum orifice being fluidically coupled to the vacuum source through the tool body.

[0004] In some embodiments, the wet / dry vacuum tool further includes an agitator assembly coupled to the wet / dry cleaning region of the tool body, the agitator assembly comprising a plurality of filaments extending from the tool body.

[0005] In some embodiments, the wet / dry vacuum tool further comprises a controllable latch disposed between the gripping region and the wet / dry cleaning region, the latch being configured to controllably couple and decouple the wet / dry vacuum tool to the different wet / dry vacuum tool.

[0006] In some embodiments, the controllable fluid delivery actuator includes a slidable piston conduit connected to the cleaning fluid source and the trigger actuator; a release valve connected to one end of the slidable piston conduit; the release valve is defined in a chamber of the tool body and includes a gasket that has a liquid-tight seal in a first position of the release valve and allows fluid to flow around the gasket and the release valve in a second position of the release valve; and a spring surrounding the piston conduit that biases the slidable piston conduit and the release valve to the first position; wherein movement of the trigger actuator causes the slidable piston conduit and the release valve to be in the second position to allow cleaning fluid to be delivered to the nozzle.

[0007] In some embodiments, the wet / dry vacuum tool further includes an abutment surface disposed between the gripping region and the wet / dry cleaning region of the tool body, the abutment surface sealingly mating with an interface surface of the different wet / dry vacuum tool.

[0008] In some embodiments, the wet / dry vacuum tool further includes an alignment track disposed between the gripping region and the wet / dry cleaning region of the tool body, the alignment track mating with an alignment slot associated with the different wet / dry vacuum tool.

[0009] In some embodiments, the wet / dry vacuum tool further comprises at least one alignment recess disposed between the gripping region and the wet / dry cleaning region of the tool body, the alignment recess cooperating with an alignment protrusion associated with the different wet / dry vacuum tool.

[0010] On the other hand, the present disclosure provides a wet / dry containment vacuum tool for cooperating with a different wet / dry vacuum tool, the wet / dry containment vacuum tool comprising a tool body, the tool body comprising an interface region, a wet / dry cleaning region, and a containment region. The interface region comprises: a tool interface surface for mating with an abutting surface of the different wet / dry vacuum tool; a cleaning fluid interface comprising a ring member and an annular gasket, the ring member surrounding the annular gasket and spaced from the annular gasket; wherein the annular gasket is configured to sealingly receive a nozzle associated with the different wet / dry vacuum tool; and a vacuum interface for sealingly mating with a vacuum orifice associated with the different wet / dry vacuum tool. The wet / dry cleaning region comprises: a cleaning fluid nozzle, the cleaning fluid nozzle being fluidly coupled to the cleaning fluid interface; and a vacuum orifice, the vacuum orifice being fluidly coupled to the vacuum interface through the tool body. The containment area is disposed between the wet / dry cleaning area and the interface area, and includes: a removable tank coupled to the tool body, the removable tank being used to receive liquids and / or solids in an air flow path defined between the vacuum orifice and the vacuum interface.

[0011] In some embodiments, the wet / dry containment vacuum tool further comprises an airflow guide plate disposed within the tool body adjacent to the removable canister, the airflow guide plate for directing airflow in the airflow path toward a bottom end of the removable canister.

[0012] In some embodiments, the airflow director plate includes a first lobe for directing airflow from the vacuum aperture toward the bottom end of the removable canister, and a second lobe for directing airflow from the removable canister to the vacuum interface.

[0013] In some embodiments, the cleaning fluid interface is further configured to receive a flange ring member associated with the different wet / dry tool, the flange ring member sealingly received in the space between the ring member and the annular gasket.

[0014] In some embodiments, the wet / dry containment vacuum tool further includes an agitator assembly coupled to the wet / dry cleaning region of the tool body, the agitator assembly comprising a plurality of filaments extending from the tool body.

[0015] In some embodiments, the wet / dry containment vacuum tool further comprises a hook disposed within the interface region, the hook being configured to controllably couple and decouple the wet / dry containment vacuum tool to the different wet / dry vacuum tool.

[0016] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool set. The cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool set includes a first tool and a second tool. The first tool has a first tool body including a gripping area, the gripping area being configured to be coupled to a vacuum source and a cleaning fluid source. The first tool body also includes a first wet / dry cleaning area disposed opposite an end of the gripping area; the first wet / dry cleaning area includes: a cleaning fluid nozzle assembly, the cleaning fluid nozzle assembly including a first fluid nozzle and a flange ring surrounding the fluid nozzle, wherein the fluid nozzle is fluidly coupled to the cleaning fluid source; a controllable fluid delivery actuator, the controllable fluid delivery actuator being used to controllably couple and decouple the cleaning fluid source from the fluid nozzle; and a vacuum orifice, the vacuum orifice being fluidly coupled to the vacuum source through the first tool body. The second tool has a second tool body, the second tool body including an interface area, a second wet / dry cleaning area, and a receiving area disposed between the wet / dry cleaning area and the interface area, wherein the interface area includes: a tool interface surface that cooperates with the first wet / dry tool; a cleaning fluid interface, the cleaning fluid interface including a ring member and an annular gasket, the ring member surrounding the annular gasket and spaced from the annular gasket; wherein the annular gasket is configured to sealably receive the first fluid nozzle associated with the first tool; and a vacuum interface, the vacuum interface is used to sealably cooperate with the vacuum orifice of the first tool. The second wet / dry cleaning area includes: a second fluid nozzle, the second fluid nozzle is fluidly coupled to the cleaning fluid interface; and a second vacuum orifice, the second vacuum orifice is fluidly coupled to the vacuum interface through the second tool body. The receiving area includes a removable tank coupled to the second tool body, the removable tank is used to receive liquids and / or solids in an airflow path defined between the second vacuum orifice and the vacuum interface.

[0017] In some embodiments, the cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool set further includes an airflow guide plate disposed within the second body adjacent to the removable canister, the airflow guide plate being used to direct airflow in the airflow path toward a bottom end of the removable canister.

[0018] In some embodiments, the airflow director plate includes a first lobe for directing airflow from the vacuum aperture toward the bottom end of the removable canister, and a second lobe for directing airflow from the removable canister to the vacuum interface.

[0019] In some embodiments, the cleaning fluid interface is further configured to receive a flange ring member of the first tool, the flange ring member sealingly received in a space between the ring member and the annular gasket.

[0020] In some embodiments, the cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool set further includes an agitator assembly coupled to the first wet / dry cleaning region of the first tool body, the agitator assembly including a plurality of filaments extending from the first tool body.

[0021] In some embodiments, the cooperating wet / dry vacuum tool set further includes an agitator assembly coupled to the second wet / dry cleaning region of the second tool body, the agitator assembly comprising a plurality of filaments extending from the second tool body.

[0022] In some embodiments, the cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool set further includes a controllable latch disposed between the gripping area and the first wet / dry cleaning area, the latch configured to controllably couple and decouple the first tool and the second tool.

[0023] In some embodiments, the controllable fluid delivery actuator includes: a slidable piston conduit connected to the cleaning fluid source and a trigger actuator; a release valve connected to one end of the slidable piston conduit; the release valve is defined in a chamber of the first tool body and includes a gasket, which has a liquid-tight seal in a first position of the release valve and allows fluid to flow around the gasket and the release valve in a second position of the release valve; and a spring around the piston conduit, which biases the slidable piston conduit and the release valve to the first position; wherein movement of the trigger actuator causes the slidable piston conduit and the release valve to be in the second position so that the cleaning fluid is delivered to the nozzle.

[0024] In some embodiments, the cooperating wet / dry vacuum tool set further includes an abutment surface disposed between the gripping region and the first wet / dry cleaning region of the first tool body, the abutment surface sealingly mating with the interface surface of the second tool body.

[0025] In some embodiments, the collaborative wet / dry vacuum tool set also includes: an alignment track disposed between the gripping area of ​​the first tool body and the first wet / dry cleaning area; and an alignment groove disposed in the interface area of ​​the second tool body, the alignment track cooperating with the alignment groove. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] These and other features and advantages will be better understood from the following detailed description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1A shows a perspective side view of a first wet / dry vacuum tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 1B shows another perspective side view of a first tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 1C showing a perspective view of a rear end of a first wet / dry vacuum tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 1D showing a close-up perspective view of a wet / dry region of a first wet / dry vacuum tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 1E illustrates another perspective side view of a first wet / dry vacuum tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 1F FIG. 2 shows a first wet / dry vacuum tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, along a wet / dry zone. Figure 1E A close-up cross-sectional view taken along line XX in FIG.

[0033] Figure 1G FIG. 2 shows a first wet / dry vacuum tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, along a wet / dry zone. Figure 1E Another close-up cross-sectional view taken along line XX in FIG.

[0034] Figure 2A shows a side perspective view of a second wet / dry vacuum tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 2B shows a front perspective view of a containment tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 2C shows a front perspective and partially exploded view of a containment tool 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 2D shows a rear perspective view of a containment tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 2E shows a rear perspective and partial cross-sectional view of a containment tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 2F shows another rear perspective view of a containment tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 2G shows another perspective side view of a containment tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 2H The receiving tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown along Figure 2G A cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI in FIG.

[0042] Fig.2I shows a bottom perspective view of a containment tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 3A shows a perspective side view of a collaboration tool set according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 3B The collaborative tool set according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown along Figure 3A A cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in FIG.

[0045] Figure 4 shows a schematic example of a handheld extraction cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0046] Figure 5 A schematic example of an upright extraction cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] The present disclosure generally relates to vacuum tools. In one example, a first wet / dry crevice tool is provided that can be coupled to a vacuum source and a cleaning fluid source. The first tool includes a vacuum port and a cleaning fluid nozzle assembly that is coupled to a cleaning fluid actuation mechanism to controllably deliver a cleaning fluid to a target area to be cleaned. The vacuum port and the cleaning fluid nozzle assembly are configured to sealably dock with another cooperating tool. The first tool includes a latch mechanism and a tolerance track to enable the first tool to be securely coupled to another cooperating tool, such as a liquid containing tool. In another example, a liquid containing tool is provided that includes a cleaning fluid interface for sealingly coupling to a nozzle assembly of the crevice tool and a vacuum interface for sealingly coupling to a vacuum port of the crevice tool. The containing tool includes a vacuum port that is fluidly coupled to the vacuum port, thereby receiving suction at the vacuum port of the containing tool. The containing tool includes a liquid nozzle and a conduit that is coupled between the cleaning fluid interface and the liquid nozzle to controllably deliver a cleaning fluid through the containing tool. The first tool and the liquid containing tool are configured to be attached together and cooperate to perform various cleaning tasks. The wet / dry tools described herein can be coupled to a variety of wet / dry extraction cleaners, and the wet / dry tools described herein can be used with a variety of cleaning solutions, depending on the cleaning task.

[0048] Figure 1A A perspective side view of a first wet / dry vacuum tool 100 (hereinafter referred to as "first tool 100" or "crevasse tool 100") according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The crevice tool 100 includes a body 102 including a gripping area 103 on one end of the body 102 and a wet / dry cleaning area 105 (also referred to as "wet / dry area 105") on an opposite end of the body 102. The gripping area 103 has a generally circular cross-section that is sized to be gripped by a user during operation of the crevice tool 100. The body 102 also includes an abutment area 107 between the wet / dry cleaning area 105 and the gripping area 103, wherein the abutment area 107 includes one or more surfaces to receive different tools to be placed on the wet / dry area 105, as will be described in more detail below.

[0049] The wet / dry region 105 of the body 102 includes an airflow orifice (vacuum orifice) 104 defined at one end of the body 102 and directed toward the underside of the body 102, an agitator assembly 106 disposed on the underside of the body 102 generally adjacent to the vacuum orifice 104, and a fluid dispensing nozzle assembly 108 disposed adjacent to the agitator assembly 106. The vacuum orifice 104 is in fluid communication with the opposite end of the body (the end of the gripping region 103) through the body 102 so that when the crevice tool 100 is coupled to a vacuum source hose (not shown), suction is applied to the vacuum orifice 104. The vacuum orifice 104 is depicted as having a generally rectangular cross-section, but in some embodiments, the vacuum orifice may have a generally circular cross-section, a generally oval cross-section, a triangular cross-section, an elongated cross-section, etc. The agitator assembly 106 generally includes a plurality of filaments (e.g., elongated filaments) extending from the body 102. The filaments may be formed, for example, of plastic, rubber, a composite material, a metal, a metal composite material, etc. In some embodiments, multiple filaments can be selected to obtain the stiffness, length, and / or density required for a given cleaning task. In addition, in some embodiments, the agitator assembly 106 can be removably coupled to the body 102, thus allowing interchangeable agitator assemblies to be coupled to the body 102 for a given cleaning task. The nozzle assembly 108 generally includes a liquid nozzle and a flange housing, as described in more detail below.

[0050] The body 102 also includes a cleaning fluid actuator 110 that is generally configured to allow a user to controllably apply a cleaning fluid (from a fluid source hose, not shown in this figure) through the fluid nozzle assembly 108. As shown, the cleaning fluid actuator 110 can include a trigger button to start and stop the flow of liquid from the nozzle, the trigger button having a form factor that fits within a person's finger. As will be described in more detail below, the cleaning fluid actuator 110 can be biased to a closed (or "off" position), thereby preventing fluid from flowing through the nozzle assembly 108 (and thereby reducing inadvertent discharge of liquid).

[0051] In order to enable the crevice tool 100 to cooperate with another tool (e.g., a liquid containing tool described below), the body 102 of the crevice tool 100 may include one or more mating features to mate with and provide a locked engagement with the other tool. For example, and as will be described in more detail below, the body may include one or more recesses on either side of the body 102 (one of which may be located on the bottom of the body 102). Figure 1AThe body 102 may also include a track and / or groove on either side of the body 102 (e.g., track 114A with a matching track / groove on the other side of the body 102) to mate with a groove and / or track of another tool. In order to securely connect the gripping area 103 to a vacuum / liquid hose (not shown in this figure), the end of the body may include one or more grooves and / or notches 116A to mate with corresponding notches / grooves of the vacuum / liquid hose.

[0052] Figure 1B Another perspective side view of a crevice tool 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown in this view, the body 102 may also include a latch 122 to latch to another tool (not shown in this figure). An actuation button or button 118 may be engaged by a user to engage / disengage the latch with another tool. The latch 122 is shown as a movable "hook" to slidably engage and disengage with another tool, and the button 118 may include a spring mechanism (not shown in this figure) to bias the actuation latch 122 to a locked position when engaged with another tool. The actuation latch or latch 122 and button 118 are shown as being generally disposed on the "top" of the body 102, however, in other embodiments, the latch 122 / button 118 may be disposed at other locations along the periphery of the body 102. As also shown in this view, an opening 120 is defined at the end of the gripping area 103 to interface with a liquid / vacuum hose. As shown, the area surrounding the opening 120 may include additional grooves / recesses (eg, groove 116B to securely engage the end of a vacuum hose).

[0053] Figure 1C A perspective view of the rear end of a crevice tool 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown in this view, the gripping region 103 of the body 102 defines (one or more) interface abutment surfaces, flange nozzle rings, or outer flange rings 124 within the well of the opening 120 to provide an end stop when the end of the vacuum hose is inserted into the opening 120. Within the opening, a liquid connection interface 126 may be provided to couple to a liquid hose line (not shown in this figure). The liquid connection interface 126 may include internal "ridges" and / or ribs to provide a "snap fit" and waterproof seal with the liquid hose line (and the liquid hose line may include an engagement end that includes a seal (e.g., an O-ring, etc.) to seal within the interface 126). Although the body 102 at the end of the gripping region 103 is shown as having a generally circular cross-section, in other embodiments, the opening 120 may be defined as having a different shape, such as a rectangular, oval, irregular shape, etc. Furthermore, the opening 120 may be sized to interface with a variety of vacuum hose types, which may include conventional and / or custom and / or proprietary vacuum hoses.

[0054] Figure 1D A close-up perspective view of the wet / dry area 105 of a tool 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the nozzle assembly 108 includes a flange ring 125 surrounding a liquid dispensing nozzle 127. The flange ring 125 includes a sidewall portion 128 that is generally sized to interface with a corresponding liquid interface of another tool and provide a liquid-tight seal with the liquid interface of another tool (all of which are described in more detail below). Also shown in this view are recesses 112A and 112B defined on either side of the nozzle assembly 108, as described above. Other features shown in this view include an engagement track 114A, an abutment surface or abutment area 107, a vacuum orifice 104, and an agitator assembly 106, each as described above.

[0055] Figure 1E Another perspective side view of the crevice tool 100 is shown, and Figure 1F The wet / dry region 105 is shown along Figure 1E A close-up cross-sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. Figure 1F As shown in , the cleaning fluid actuator 110 includes a movable trigger actuator 111. The trigger actuator 111 is coupled (e.g., coupled at a shoulder point 141) to a piston conduit 132. The trigger spring 130 is coupled to (e.g., around) a portion of the piston conduit 132. The piston conduit 132 and the spring 130 are housed within a piston chamber 143 to enable compression and release of the spring 130. The piston conduit 132 is coupled to a release valve 134 disposed in a sealed housing 135 defined in the body 102. The release valve 134 allows liquid to flow into the chamber 138 and into the nozzle conduit 140. The nozzle conduit 140 is disposed in the sealed chamber, and in a closed or closed position, a gasket (or O-ring) 142 provides a liquid-tight seal for the nozzle conduit 140. The seal housing 135 includes a recess 136 to receive the gasket 142 when the piston conduit 132 and the release valve 134 are moved to the rear position, thereby allowing fluid to flow through the piston conduit 132 and then around the release valve 134 and the gasket 142, as shown in FIG. Figure 1F The piston conduit 132 may also be sealingly coupled to a liquid conduit connection 144 (which itself is coupled to the liquid connection interface 126 via a conduit (not shown)).

[0056] In operation, when the user pulls the movable trigger actuator 111 backward, the piston conduit 132 and the release valve 134 are urged backward, the gasket 142 is aligned with the recess 136, thereby allowing liquid (via the liquid connection interface 120) to flow through the piston conduit 132 and then around the release valve 134 and the gasket 142 and then into the chamber 138. In some embodiments, the chamber 138 has a larger volume (i.e., a larger cross-sectional surface area) than the nozzle conduit 140, thereby providing increased pressure as the liquid moves into the nozzle conduit 140 and exits through the nozzle assembly 108. In addition, in some embodiments, the nozzle conduit 140 can be tapered from the chamber 138 to the nozzle, thereby providing additional increased pressure. When the user releases the trigger actuator 111, the trigger spring 130 moves the piston conduit 132 and the release valve 134 forward, thereby sealing the chamber 138 from the flow of liquid (in other words, the trigger spring 130 biases the piston conduit 132 and the release valve 134 to the "closed" position to prevent unintentional discharge of liquid).

[0057] Figure 1G The wet / dry region 105 is shown along Figure 1E Another close-up cross-sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. Figure 1G , the latch spring 146 is coupled to the latch release button 118. As shown, the latch release button 118 is coupled to the latch 122. The latch spring 146 extends from a platform formed in the internal structure of the body and is biased to push the latch release button 118 upward, thereby maintaining the latch 122 in the locked position. Pushing the latch release button 118 downward moves the latch 122 downward, thereby disengaging the tool coupled to the latch 122.

[0058] A vacuum air flow conduit 150 is defined in the body 102 between the vacuum port 104 and the rear vacuum hose connection interface (defined in the opening 120). Thus, in the exemplary embodiment, the vacuum air flow conduit 150 is disposed above the cleaning fluid conduit (between the interface 126 and the conduit connection 144). In other embodiments, the body 102 may include a routing chamber, conduits, and / or shafts to fluidly couple airflow and cleaning fluid from the rear end of the tool body 102 to the vacuum port 104 and the nozzle assembly 108. As shown, the internal structure of the body 102 includes various slots, channels, and / or chambers to secure and / or contain the trigger actuator 111, the piston conduit 132, the trigger spring 130, the release valve 134, the nozzle conduit 140, the gasket 142, and the liquid conduit connection 144 within the body 102. Of course, such slots, channels, and / or chambers for securing and / or containing components within the body may be modified, for example, depending on the size of the selected components, the desired tolerances within the body and between the components, etc.

[0059] Figure 2AA side perspective view of a second wet / dry vacuum tool 200 (hereinafter referred to as "second tool 200," "liquid containment tool 200," or "containment tool 200") according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2A The receiving tool 200 is configured to engage Figure 1A The containment tool 200 is a device that is configured to be attached to a portion of the crevice tool 100 (described above), thereby providing a cooperative tool set for various wet / dry cleaning tasks. The containment tool 200 generally includes a body 202, which includes an interface area 203 on one end of the body 202, a wet / dry cleaning area 205 (also referred to as "wet / dry area 205") on the opposite end of the body 202, and a liquid containment area 207 between the interface area 203 and the wet / dry cleaning area 205. The liquid containment area 207 includes a removable liquid containment reservoir 252 ("reservoir 252" or "containment tank 252") that is generally configured to be attached to and detached from the body 202. The reservoir 252 may include a transparent / opaque window feature to enable a user to observe and evaluate the liquid contents inside the reservoir 252. The reservoir 252 may also include a locking mechanism 256 to enable a user to unlock the reservoir 252 and remove it from the body 202, and lock the reservoir 252 to the body to prevent inadvertent spillage of the liquid held in the reservoir. In some embodiments, the reservoir 252 may be attached to the body 202 using mating threads. In other embodiments, the reservoir 252 may be attached to the body 202 using, for example, a latch, a snap-fit ​​device, a bayonet protrusion, etc. In general, and as will be described below, the reservoir 252 is generally configured to contain liquid debris drawn into the body so that minimal liquid is retained in the airflow through the body 202 and out of the interface area 203.

[0060] Figure 2B A front perspective view of a containment tool 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In this view, features of a wet / dry cleaning area 205 are shown. The wet / dry cleaning area 205 includes an elongated vacuum aperture 258 and an agitator assembly 260 disposed on the underside of the body 202 generally adjacent to the vacuum aperture 258, and a fluid dispensing nozzle assembly 262 disposed in front of and above the vacuum aperture 258.

[0061] The vacuum orifice 258 is in fluid communication with the opposite end of the body (in the interface region 203) through the body 202, so that when the receiving tool 200 is coupled to another tool (which itself is coupled to a vacuum source hose), suction is applied to the vacuum orifice 258. The opening of the vacuum orifice 258 is depicted as having a generally elongated rectangular cross-section, but in some embodiments, the vacuum orifice may have a generally circular cross-section, a generally oval cross-section, a triangular cross-section, a rectangular cross-section, etc. The agitator assembly 260 (similar to the agitator assembly 106) generally includes a plurality of filaments (e.g., elongated filaments) extending from the body 202. The filaments may be formed, for example, of plastic, rubber, composite materials, metal, metal composite materials, etc. In some embodiments, a plurality of filaments may be selected to obtain the rigidity, length, and / or density required for a given cleaning task. In addition, in some embodiments, the agitator assembly 260 may be removably coupled to the body 202, thereby allowing interchangeable agitator assemblies to be coupled to the body 202 for a given cleaning task. Nozzle assembly 262 generally includes a liquid nozzle, as will be described in greater detail below.

[0062] Figure 2C A front perspective and partially exploded view of a containment tool 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In this view, the body includes a removable front panel 270. The removable front panel 270 can be removed to enable cleaning of a vacuum orifice 258 defined in the front portion of the body 202 between the front panel 270 and the wet / dry cleaning area 205. In this example, the vacuum orifice 258 includes a tapered conduit that includes a flared portion 267 that tapers to a recessed portion 268 in an area near the opening of the vacuum orifice 258. When an airflow (which may contain liquid) enters the containment area 207, the taper from the flared portion 267 to the tapered portion 268 can provide an increased airflow pressure (and velocity). This can provide an enhanced separation of liquid from air, with most of the liquid deposited into the reservoir 252, and thus "drier" air passing through the remainder of the tool body 202. Of course, in other embodiments, the vacuum orifice 258 can be formed into other shapes, such as straight, partially tapered, etc.

[0063] Figure 2D200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular, the view shows the interface region 203 in greater detail. Generally, the interface region includes an opening 272 to receive a portion of a different tool (e.g., to receive the wet / dry region 105 of the crevice tool 100 described above), and includes an interface to sealingly couple a vacuum source and a cleaning fluid source to the tool 200. Thus, the interface region 203 includes a tool interface that includes an abutment surface 283 around the perimeter of the interface opening 272. The abutment surface 283 is sized to sealingly couple to the abutment region(s) 107 ( Figure 1A ). The abutment surface 283 may include a gasket and / or a rubber seal to provide a liquid and air seal when another tool (eg, the crevice tool 100 described above) is inserted into the opening 272.

[0064] The interface region 203 also includes a cleaning fluid interface, generally shown at 284, and generally configured to sealingly couple the nozzle assembly 108 of the crevice tool 100 to the tool 200. The cleaning fluid interface 284 includes an outer ring member 278 surrounding a gasket 277. A gap is defined between the outer ring 278 and the gasket 277 to receive and sealingly engage the nozzle assembly 108 ( Figure 1D ) of the outer flange ring 124. The gasket 277 includes a center ring 282 to sealably receive the liquid nozzle 127 ( Figure 1D ). The outer ring 278 is coupled to the engagement lobes (one of which is shown at 281A). The engagement lobes 281A have a shape (e.g., a triangular shape) that mates with the recess 112A of the tool 100. The engagement lobes 281A and the ring 278 are coupled to a spring (not shown in this figure) that biases the ring 278 and the lobes 281A "upwardly," i.e., toward the center of the interface region 203. When the crevice tool 100 is inserted into the receiving tool 200, the lobes 281A and the ring 278 are pushed downwardly (i.e., away from the center of the interface region 203) until the recess 112A is aligned with the lobes 281A. The spring then pushes the lobes 281A and the ring 278 upwardly and seals the outer flange ring 124 between the gasket 277 and the ring 278. The cleaning fluid interface is generally configured to deliver cleaning fluid from the nozzle assembly 108 of the first tool 100 to the nozzle 262 of the receiving tool 200 (via an embedded conduit channel, as described below).

[0065] The interface region 203 also includes a vacuum interface 274 having a side wall portion 276 having a vacuum port 104 ( Figure 1A ) of the periphery. The exposed surface of the side wall portion 276 (ie, adjacent to the vacuum port 104 when the fracture tool 100 is inserted into the interface 203) is formed. Figure 1A) on the peripheral surface of the vacuum port 104 , a seal (eg, a gasket, a rubber seal, etc.) may be provided to provide an airtight connection between the vacuum port 104 and the vacuum interface 274 .

[0066] The interface region 203 also includes a latch engagement ridge 279 that is configured to engage with the latch 122 ( Figure 1B and Figure 1F ) are engaged and disengaged, thereby securing the fracture tool 100 to the receiving tool 200. The interface region 203 may also include one or more channels (one of which is shown at 280) to receive the rails 114A and / or 114B (of the tool 100) to guide the insertion of the fracture tool 100 into the receiving tool 200, and to provide a precise connection between the fracture tool 100 and the receiving tool 200 (i.e., reducing or eliminating movement between the tools, and thus reducing or eliminating vacuum pressure drop and / or liquid leakage at the interface 203).

[0067] Figure 2E A rear perspective and partial cross-sectional view of a containment tool 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In particular, the figure shows the cleaning fluid interface 284 in more detail. As shown, the engagement cam 281A is coupled to the outer ring 278, which is respectively coupled to spring members 287A and 287B, which operate as described above. The spring member 287B is coupled to the ring 278 and the corresponding cam 281B (not shown in this figure). Figure 2F Another rear perspective view of the containment tool 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In particular, the figure shows the gasket 277 of the cleaning fluid interface 284 in more detail. As shown, the center ring 282 of the gasket 277 can be tapered to sealingly engage the nozzle 127 of the tool 100. The size of the cone can be determined based on the geometry of the nozzle 127. A screen 285 can be placed within the ring 282 to prevent particulate matter from entering the nozzle of the containment tool 200.

[0068] Figure 2G Another perspective side view of the receiving tool 200 is shown, and Figure 2H The receiving tool 200 is shown along Figure 2G A cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI in FIG. Figure 2HAs shown in the figure, the airflow / liquid path (AF / L) is defined by the body 202 and starts at the vacuum orifice 258. The cleaning tool 200 can be used to vacuum a variety of liquid debris, and therefore, the airflow path (AH / L) can contain both air and liquid. Between the wet / dry cleaning area 205 and the receiving area 207, a one-way valve 286 (e.g., a duckbill valve, etc.) can be placed in the AF / L path to prevent liquid and / or air from entering the wet / dry cleaning area 205 from the receiving area 207. Once through the one-way valve 286, the AF / L continues to reach the receiving tank 252 (as shown by the arrow in the AH / L path). As shown, the receiving tank 252 generally has a larger volume than the AF / L path in the wet / dry area 205, and therefore the larger volume of the receiving tank 252 causes a pressure drop in the vacuum pressure. When the airflow and / or liquid enters the receiving tank 252, the liquid and denser solids in the airflow tend to fall into the receiving tank 252, thereby separating most of the liquid / solids from the air. The (drier) air flow (AF) continues upwards through the web body and through the interface 274 between the first tool 100 and the second tool 200 .

[0069] The containment area 207 may also include an airflow guide plate 288 disposed adjacent to the containment tank 252, which is generally configured to control the direction of airflow (AF / L and AF) through the containment tank 252. The airflow guide plate 288 may include side lobes 290A and 290B on either side of the plate 288. The side lobes 290A extend downward from the plate toward the bottom of the containment tank 252, and may further guide the airflow in the AF / L path downward into the tank. The side lobes 290A may enhance the separation of liquids and solids in the airflow to be deposited into the containment tank 252. The side lobes 290B are generally L-shaped, which may operate in a similar manner to the side lobes 290A by directing the airflow so that the airflow spends more time in the containment tank 252, thereby increasing the ability to remove liquids and / or solids from the airflow. The plate 288 may also include a mesh material 289 disposed at its center. A discharge valve (e.g., an umbrella valve, etc.) 292 may be provided to reduce the vacuum pressure. As shown, the bleed valve 292 allows ambient air to enter through the relief path (R) and through the port 274 .

[0070] Also like Figure 2H, the cleaning fluid interface 284 can be fluidly coupled to a cleaning fluid conduit 295 (via a coupling 294) to deliver the cleaning fluid from a cleaning fluid source and through the first tool 100 to the nozzle 262. It should be noted that actuation of the cleaning fluid in the crevice tool 100 causes the cleaning fluid to flow through the interface 284 and through the conduit 295 to the nozzle 262 of the present tool 200. Thus, delivery of the cleaning fluid is controlled by the first tool 100. In this example, the conduit 295 extends from the bottom of the second tool 200 to the top of the second tool 200 and wraps around the gas flow path.

[0071] As shown, the internal structure of the body 202 includes various grooves, channels and / or chambers to define the above-mentioned airflow paths (e.g., AF / L path, AF path, R path) and fix and / or accommodate the cleaning fluid interface 284, conduit 295, coupling 294, plate 288, check valve 286 and exhaust valve 292, airflow interface 274, nozzle 262, etc. in the body 202. Of course, such grooves, channels and / or chambers for defining paths and fixing and / or accommodating components in the body can be modified, for example, depending on the size of the selected components, the desired tolerances within the body and between components, etc.

[0072] Fig.2I A bottom perspective view of a containment tool 200 according to other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In particular, the figure shows a tool 200 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the containment canister 252 is removed and the airflow director plate 288' is exposed. The plate 288' of this embodiment includes an L-shaped side lobes 290A', which are generally sized to redirect the airflow (AF / L) toward the front of the body 202 before releasing the airflow into the canister. The lobes 290B' include a shield portion to reduce or eliminate sloshing (of the liquid) from hitting the back wall of the canister and splashing back toward the mesh, thereby reducing or eliminating liquid sloshing into the mesh 289' and being drawn into the vacuum airflow.

[0073] Figure 3A A perspective side view of the collaboration tool set 300 is shown, and Figure 3B The collaboration tool set 300 is shown along Figure 3A A cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in FIG. Figure 3A As shown in the figure, the cooperative tool includes a crevices tool 100 inserted into (and removably coupled to) a containment tool 200, thereby providing a liquid containment tool that can be used for a variety of cleaning tasks. As described above, the crevices tool 100 can be operated independently of the containment tool 200, and when coupled together as shown, the crevices tool 100 provides the containment tool 200 with a cleaning fluid and vacuum gas flow.

[0074] Figure 3BThe cross-sectional view of illustrative embodiments shows the coupling between the nozzle assembly 108 (first tool 100) and the nozzle interface 284 (second tool 200), and the coupling between the vacuum orifice 104 (first tool 100) and the vacuum interface 272 (second tool 200). Figure 3B The cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 also illustrates the latch 122 that securely and removably couples the first tool 100 to the second tool 200 .

[0075] As described above, the crevice tool 100 may be coupled to a vacuum source and a cleaning fluid source, depending on the type of cleaning task to be performed. Figure 4 A schematic example of a handheld extraction cleaner 400 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the handheld extraction cleaner 400 includes a cleaner body 402, a carrying handle 404 for carrying the cleaner body 402, a supply tank 406 configured to receive a first cleaning fluid, an additive tank 408 configured to receive a second cleaning fluid, and a recovery tank 410. The first tool 100 or the first tool 100 / second tool 200 group (as described above) is configured to distribute the first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned 414, and extract at least a portion of the first distribution cleaning fluid and / or the second distribution cleaning fluid. The extracted first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid can be transported to the recovery tank 410 for collection and later disposal.

[0076] In some embodiments, the second cleaning fluid may include an auxiliary fluid mixed with the basic cleaning fluid. The auxiliary fluid may include, for example, an oxidant, such as hydrogen peroxide. The basic cleaning fluid may include, for example, water, detergent, soap, fragrance and / or other cleaning fluids. The auxiliary fluid may have a pH (acidity and alkalinity) less than the pH of the basic cleaning fluid to prevent the auxiliary fluid in the second cleaning fluid from decomposing. In some embodiments, for example, the pH of the auxiliary fluid may be less than or equal to about 4.5, and the pH of the basic cleaning fluid may be greater than or equal to about 9. When using the first tool 100 or the first tool 100 / second tool 200 group to clean (for example, to clean a heavily contaminated target area), using an auxiliary fluid in the second cleaning fluid may be particularly useful.

[0077] As shown, a flexible hose 416 couples the first tool 100 or first tool 100 / second tool 200 combination to the cleaner body 402 of the handheld extraction cleaner 400. The flexible hose 416 may include a fluid delivery path 418 (eg, one or more delivery tubes) extending within a recovery path 420 defined within the flexible hose 416.

[0078] The fluid delivery path 418 fluidly couples the first tool 100 or the first tool 100 / second tool 200 group to the supply tank 406 and / or the additive tank 408. The first tool 100 or the first tool 100 / second tool 200 group can be configured to selectively fluidly couple the fluid applicator 422 of the first tool 100 or the first tool 100 / second tool 200 group to the fluid delivery path 418 (e.g., so that a user can control the delivery of the first cleaning fluid, the second cleaning fluid, and / or the mixture of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned 414). In some cases, the additive tank 408 can be selectively fluidly coupled to the cleaning tool 412 (e.g., so that the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid can be selectively applied as a mixture). The handheld extraction cleaner 400 may include a pump 424 (e.g., the cleaner body 402 includes the pump 424), which is fluidly coupled to the fluid delivery path 418 at a position downstream of at least one of the supply tank 406 and / or the additive tank 408 and upstream of the fluid applicator 422 of the first tool 100 or the first tool 100 / second tool 200 group. Thus, the pump 424 can be generally described as being configured to push the first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid through the fluid applicator 422 to be distributed on the surface to be cleaned 414. In some cases, the handheld extraction cleaner 400 can be configured to deliver only the first cleaning fluid, only the second cleaning fluid, and / or a combination of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid. For example, a user of the handheld extraction cleaner 400 may be able to select between delivering only the first cleaning fluid, only the second cleaning fluid, or a combination of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned 414. As another example, the handheld extraction cleaner 400 can be configured to deliver only a combination of the first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned 414. In this example, the handheld extraction cleaner 400 can be configured to deliver a 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 414 until it is exhausted.

[0079] At least a portion of any debris on the surface to be cleaned 414 is entrained in the first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid of the distribution. When the debris is entrained in the first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid, the resulting mixture can be generally referred to as a dirty cleaning fluid. The recovery path 420 defined in the flexible hose 416 fluidically couples the first tool 100 or the first tool 100 / second tool 200 group (e.g., the suction inlet 120 of the first tool 100) to the recovery tank 410. For example, the handheld extraction cleaner 400 may include a suction motor 428 (e.g., the cleaner body 402 includes a suction motor 428), which is fluidically coupled to the recovery path 420 and the recovery tank 410 so that the suction motor 428 generates an airflow, which extracts at least a portion of the first cleaning fluid and / or the second cleaning fluid of the distribution from the surface to be cleaned 414 (e.g., using the suction inlet 120). At least a portion of the extracted cleaning fluid is deposited in the recovery tank 410.

[0080] As another example of the type of cleaning system that may be used with the first tool 100 or first tool 100 / second tool 200 combination, Figure 5 A schematic example of an upright extraction cleaner 500 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The upright extraction cleaner 500 includes a surface cleaning head 502, at least one wheel 503 rotatably coupled to the surface cleaning head 502, and an upright body 504 including a handle 506. The upright body 504 is pivotally coupled to the surface cleaning head 502 so that the upright body 504 transitions between a use position and a storage position in response to a pivotal movement of the upright body 504. A user can interact with the handle 506 to manipulate the surface cleaning head 502 along a surface to be cleaned 508. The upright extraction cleaner 500 includes at least one supply tank 510 and a recovery tank 512. At least one of the supply tank 510 and the recovery tank 512 is removably coupled to the upright body 504. At least one of the upright body 504 and / or the surface cleaning head 502 includes a flexible hose connector 514 configured to be removably coupled to a flexible hose 516. The flexible hose 16 includes a cleaner end 518 configured to be removably coupled to the flexible hose connector 514 and an accessory end 520 configured to be removably coupled to, for example, the first tool 100 or a first tool 100 / second tool 200 set.

[0081] Therefore, in an exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure provides a collaborative wet / dry vacuum tool set, comprising: a first tool, the first tool having a first tool body including a gripping area, the gripping area being configured to be connected to a vacuum source and a cleaning fluid source; the first tool body also comprising a first wet / dry cleaning area arranged opposite to an end of the gripping area; the first wet / dry cleaning area comprising: a cleaning fluid nozzle assembly, the cleaning fluid nozzle assembly comprising a first fluid nozzle and a flange ring surrounding the fluid nozzle, wherein the fluid nozzle is fluidically connected to the cleaning fluid source; a controllable fluid delivery actuator, the controllable fluid delivery actuator being used to controllably connect and disconnect the cleaning fluid source from the fluid nozzle; and a vacuum orifice, the vacuum orifice being fluidly connected to the vacuum source through the first tool body. The cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool set also includes a second tool, the second tool having a second tool body, the second tool body including an interface area, a second wet / dry cleaning area, and a receiving area disposed between the wet / dry cleaning area and the interface area, wherein: the interface area includes: a tool interface surface that cooperates with the first wet / dry tool; a cleaning fluid interface, the cleaning fluid interface including a ring member and an annular gasket, the ring member surrounding the annular gasket and spaced from the annular gasket; wherein the annular gasket is configured to sealingly receive the first fluid nozzle associated with the first tool; and a vacuum interface, the vacuum interface is used to sealingly cooperate with the vacuum orifice of the first tool; and the second wet / dry cleaning area includes: a second fluid nozzle, the second fluid nozzle is fluidly connected to the cleaning fluid interface; and a second vacuum orifice, the second vacuum orifice is fluidly connected to the vacuum interface through the second tool body; and the receiving area includes: a removable tank connected to the second tool body, the removable tank is used to receive liquids and / or solids in an airflow path defined between the second vacuum orifice and the vacuum interface.

[0082] In another exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure provides a wet / dry vacuum tool, comprising a tool body, the tool body including a gripping region, the gripping region configured to couple to a vacuum source and a cleaning fluid source. The tool body also includes a wet / dry cleaning region disposed opposite an end of the gripping region. The wet / dry cleaning region includes a cleaning fluid nozzle assembly, the cleaning fluid nozzle assembly including a fluid nozzle and a flange ring surrounding the fluid nozzle, wherein the fluid nozzle is fluidly coupled to the cleaning fluid source and the flange ring is configured to sealingly couple to a different wet / dry vacuum tool; a controllable fluid delivery actuator for controllably coupling and decoupling the cleaning fluid source from the fluid nozzle; and a vacuum orifice, the vacuum orifice being fluidly coupled to the vacuum source through the tool body.

[0083] In another exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure provides a wet / dry containment vacuum tool for cooperating with different wet / dry vacuum tools, the wet / dry containment vacuum tool comprising a tool body, the tool body comprising an interface region, the interface region comprising a tool interface surface to mate with an abutment surface of different wet / dry vacuum tools; a cleaning fluid interface, the cleaning fluid interface comprising a ring member and an annular gasket, the ring member surrounding the annular gasket and spaced from the annular gasket; wherein the annular gasket is configured to sealingly receive a nozzle associated with the different wet / dry vacuum tool; and a vacuum interface, the vacuum interface for sealingly mating with a vacuum orifice associated with the different wet / dry vacuum tools. The tool body also includes a wet / dry cleaning region, the wet / dry cleaning region comprising a cleaning fluid nozzle fluidly coupled to the cleaning fluid interface; and a vacuum orifice, the vacuum orifice fluidly coupled to the vacuum interface through the tool body. The tool body also includes a receiving area disposed between the wet / dry cleaning area and the interface area, the receiving area including: a removable tank coupled to the tool body, the removable tank being used to receive liquids and / or solids in an airflow path defined between the vacuum orifice and the vacuum interface.

[0084] Although the principles of the present invention have been described herein, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that this description is by way of example only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. In addition to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein, other embodiments are contemplated within the scope of the present invention. Modifications and substitutions made by those of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present invention, and the scope of the present invention is limited only by the following claims.

Claims

1. A wet / dry vacuum tool, characterized in that: The wet / dry vacuum tool includes: a tool body including a gripping region configured to be coupled to a vacuum source and a cleaning fluid source; The tool body also includes a wet / dry cleaning area disposed opposite to the gripping area end; the wet / dry cleaning area includes: a cleaning fluid nozzle assembly comprising a fluid nozzle and a flange ring surrounding the fluid nozzle, wherein the fluid nozzle is fluidly coupled to the cleaning fluid source and the flange ring is configured to sealingly couple to a different wet / dry vacuum tool; a controllable fluid delivery actuator for controllably coupling and decoupling the cleaning fluid source from the fluid nozzle; and A vacuum port is fluidly coupled to the vacuum source through the tool body.

2. The wet / dry vacuum tool of claim 1, wherein: The wet / dry vacuum tool further comprises: An agitator assembly is coupled to the wet / dry cleaning region of the tool body, the agitator assembly comprising a plurality of filaments extending from the tool body.

3. The wet / dry vacuum tool of claim 1, wherein: The wet / dry vacuum tool further comprises: A controllable latch is disposed between the gripping area and the wet / dry cleaning area, the latch being configured to controllably couple and decouple the wet / dry vacuum tool to the different wet / dry vacuum tool.

4. The wet / dry vacuum tool of claim 1, wherein: The controllable fluid delivery actuator comprises: a slidable piston conduit coupled to the cleaning fluid source and a trigger actuator; a release valve coupled to one end of the slidable piston conduit; the release valve being defined in a chamber of the tool body and including a gasket that provides a fluid-tight seal in a first position of the release valve and that allows fluid to flow around the gasket and the release valve in a second position of the release valve; and A spring surrounding the piston conduit biases the slidable piston conduit and the release valve to the first position; wherein movement of the trigger actuator causes the slidable piston conduit and the release valve to be in the second position to allow cleaning fluid to be delivered to the nozzle.

5. The wet / dry vacuum tool of claim 1, wherein: The wet / dry vacuum tool further comprises: An abutment surface is disposed between the gripping region and the wet / dry cleaning region of the tool body, the abutment surface sealingly mating with an interface surface of the different wet / dry vacuum tool.

6. The wet / dry vacuum tool of claim 1, wherein: The wet / dry vacuum tool further comprises: An alignment track is disposed between the gripping region and the wet / dry cleaning region of the tool body, the alignment track mating with an alignment slot associated with the different wet / dry vacuum tool.

7. The wet / dry vacuum tool of claim 1, wherein: The wet / dry vacuum tool further comprises: At least one alignment recess is disposed between the gripping region and the wet / dry cleaning region of the tool body, the alignment recess mating with an alignment projection associated with the different wet / dry vacuum tool.

8. A wet / dry containment vacuum tool for cooperating with a different wet / dry vacuum tool, characterized in that The wet / dry containment vacuum tool comprises: A tool body, the tool body comprising: An interface area, the interface area comprising: a tool interface surface for mating with an abutment surface of the different wet / dry vacuum tool; a cleaning fluid interface comprising a ring member and an annular gasket, the ring member surrounding and spaced from the annular gasket; wherein the annular gasket is configured to sealingly receive a nozzle associated with the different wet / dry vacuum tool; and a vacuum interface for sealingly mating with a vacuum port associated with the different wet / dry vacuum tool; and A wet / dry cleaning area, the wet / dry cleaning area comprising: a cleaning fluid nozzle fluidly coupled to the cleaning fluid interface; and a vacuum port fluidly coupled to the vacuum interface through the tool body; and A receiving area, the receiving area being arranged between the wet / dry cleaning area and the interface area, the receiving area comprising: A removable canister is coupled to the tool body for receiving liquids and / or solids in a gas flow path defined between the vacuum orifice and the vacuum interface.

9. The wet / dry containment vacuum tool of claim 8, wherein: The wet / dry containment vacuum tool further comprises: An airflow guide plate is disposed within the tool body adjacent the removable canister, the airflow guide plate being configured to direct airflow in the airflow path toward a bottom end of the removable canister.

10. The wet / dry containment vacuum tool of claim 9, wherein: The airflow director plate includes a first lobe for directing airflow from the vacuum aperture toward a bottom end of the removable canister, and a second lobe for directing airflow from the removable canister to the vacuum interface.

11. The wet / dry containment vacuum tool of claim 8, wherein: The cleaning fluid interface is also configured to receive a flange ring member associated with the different wet / dry tool, the flange ring member sealingly received in a space between the ring member and the annular gasket.

12. The wet / dry containment vacuum tool of claim 8, wherein: The wet / dry containment vacuum tool further comprises: An agitator assembly is coupled to the wet / dry cleaning region of the tool body, the agitator assembly comprising a plurality of filaments extending from the tool body.

13. The wet / dry containment vacuum tool of claim 8, wherein: The wet / dry containment vacuum tool further comprises: A hook is disposed in the interface region, the hook being configured to controllably couple and decouple the wet / dry containment vacuum tool to the different wet / dry vacuum tool.

14. A cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool kit, characterized in that: The Collaborative Wet / Dry Vacuum Tool Set includes: a first tool having a first tool body including a gripping area configured to be coupled to a vacuum source and a cleaning fluid source; The first tool body also includes a first wet / dry cleaning area disposed opposite to the gripping area end; the first wet / dry cleaning area includes: a cleaning fluid nozzle assembly comprising a first fluid nozzle and a flange ring surrounding the fluid nozzle, wherein the fluid nozzle is fluidly coupled to the cleaning fluid source; a controllable fluid delivery actuator for controllably coupling and decoupling the cleaning fluid source from the fluid nozzle; and a vacuum port fluidly coupled to the vacuum source through the first tool body; and A second tool having a second tool body, the second tool body comprising an interface region, a second wet / dry cleaning region, and a receiving region disposed between the wet / dry cleaning region and the interface region, wherein: The interface area includes: a tool interface surface for mating with a first wet / dry tool; a cleaning fluid interface comprising a ring member and an annular gasket, the ring member surrounding the annular gasket and spaced from the annular gasket; wherein the annular gasket is configured to sealingly receive the first fluid nozzle associated with the first tool; and a vacuum interface for sealingly mating with a vacuum port of the first tool; and The second wet / dry cleaning area includes: a second fluid nozzle fluidly coupled to the cleaning fluid interface; and a second vacuum port fluidly coupled to the vacuum interface through the second tool body; and The accommodating area includes: A removable canister is coupled to the second tool body for receiving liquids and / or solids in a gas flow path defined between the second vacuum aperture and the vacuum interface.

15. The cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool kit of claim 14, wherein: The collaborative wet / dry vacuum tool set also includes: An airflow guide plate is disposed within the second tool body adjacent the removable canister, the airflow guide plate being configured to direct airflow in the airflow path toward a bottom end of the removable canister.

16. The cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool kit of claim 15, wherein: The airflow director plate includes a first lobe for directing airflow from the vacuum aperture toward a bottom end of the removable canister, and a second lobe for directing airflow from the removable canister to the vacuum interface.

17. The cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool kit of claim 14, wherein: The cleaning fluid interface is also configured to receive a flange ring member of the first tool, the flange ring member being sealingly received in a space between the ring member and the annular gasket.

18. The cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool kit of claim 14, wherein: The collaborative wet / dry vacuum tool set also includes: An agitator assembly is coupled to the first wet / dry cleaning zone of a first tool body, the agitator assembly comprising a plurality of filaments extending from the first tool body.

19. The cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool kit of claim 14, wherein: The collaborative wet / dry vacuum tool set also includes: An agitator assembly is coupled to the second wet / dry cleaning zone of the second tool body, the agitator assembly comprising a plurality of filaments extending from the second tool body.

20. The cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool kit of claim 14, wherein: The collaborative wet / dry vacuum tool set also includes: A controllable latch is disposed between the gripping area and the first wet / dry cleaning area, the latch being configured to controllably couple and decouple the first tool and the second tool.

21. The cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool kit of claim 14, wherein: The controllable fluid delivery actuator comprises: a slidable piston conduit coupled to the cleaning fluid source and a trigger actuator; a release valve coupled to one end of the slidable piston conduit; the release valve being defined in a chamber of the first tool body and including a gasket that provides a fluid-tight seal in a first position of the release valve and that allows fluid to flow around the gasket and the release valve in a second position of the release valve; and A spring surrounding the piston conduit biases the slidable piston conduit and the release valve to the first position; wherein movement of the trigger actuator causes the slidable piston conduit and the release valve to be in the second position to allow cleaning fluid to be delivered to the nozzle.

22. The cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool kit of claim 14, wherein: The collaborative wet / dry vacuum tool set also includes: An abutment surface is disposed between the gripping region and the first wet / dry cleaning region of the first tool body, the abutment surface sealingly mating with the interface surface of the second tool body.

23. The cooperative wet / dry vacuum tool kit of claim 14, wherein: The collaborative wet / dry vacuum tool set also includes: an alignment track disposed between the gripping region and the first wet / dry cleaning region of the first tool body; and an alignment slot disposed in the interface region of the second tool body, the alignment track mating with the alignment slot.

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