Floor treatment machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a hand-guided floor treatment machine (2) comprising a base unit (4) which carries at least one motor-driven floor-facing treatment tool (8), and an elongate guide part (6) which has an upper end region provided with a handle (16) for guiding the machine in a working direction; wherein the base unit is connected to the guide part via a joint (20) comprising a flexible member comprising a solid flexible core, wherein flexing of the flexible member enables the guide part to be tilted relative to the base unit in a fore and aft, and a side-to-side direction; The joint comprises a solid flexible member, for example a cylindrical shaft, wherein the joint can flex to enable the guide part to be tilted relative to the base, but wherein the joint cannot twist or rotate, one end with respect to the other. More specifically the invention relates to a hand-guided floor treatment machine comprising a base unit which carries at least one motor-driven floor-facing treatment tool, and an elongate guide part which has an upper end region provided with a handle for guiding the machine in a working direction; wherein the base unit is connected to a lower end region of the guide part via a joint, the joint comprising a flexible member, wherein flexing of the flexible member enables the guide part to be tilted relative to the base unit in a fore and aft, and a side-to-side direction; wherein the flexible member has a generally cylindrical configuration, and wherein a circumferential region of the flexible member is provided with structural reinforcement means which is configured and disposed to substantially resist rotational shear of the flexible member by twisting one end with respect to the other; and wherein the structural reinforcement means is configured and disposed to permit bending of one end of the flexible member relative to the other in any direction from the vertical, the arrangement being such that twisting of the guide part transfers the applied torque to the base unit so as to effect yaw steering thereof about a vertical axis. The yaw steering obtained by the applied torque and guide part tilting is at least + / - 45 degrees.

Description

[0001] Floor Treatment Machine

[0002] The present invention relates to floor treatment machines such as floor scrubber-driers, and particularly hand-guided machines which have an articulated joint provided between a guide part and a base unit of the floor treatment machine.

[0003] A hand-guided floor treatment machine typically comprises a base unit, and an elongate guide part or handle portion. The base unit may carry at least one motor- driven disc-shaped floor-facing treatment tool, and / or may comprise an agitating medium, such as brush bristles, wire bristles or abrasive paper or web. Instead of discshaped treatment tools, the floor tool or tools may comprise one or more driven rollers, typically provided with cylindrical working surfaces provided with agitation medium or media. The tools are typically rotatable and driven to rotate so as to treat the underlying floor surface. In alternative configurations the floor tool or tools may be adapted to have a reciprocal motion to effect floor treatment.

[0004] To effect wet cleaning, the machine may be provided with a liquid deposition arrangement comprising a cleaning liquid reservoir, and a waste liquid collection tank for receiving soiled cleaning liquid for subsequent disposal. Liquid feed means may be provided for delivering cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid reservoir to the floor tool to provide wet cleaning. The liquid feed can be delivered to the floor region in liquid form, or as an aerosol or spray. A suction collector may be provided for lifting the soiled liquid from the floor and conveying it to the waste liquid collection tank. The suction collector may comprise a floor-facing trailing squeegee type collector disposed behind the floor tool or tools in a normal direction of cleaning

[0005] During use of the machine, a user grips a handle provided at the end of the guide part and reclines the handle to a comfortable height for use. A first pivot may be provided on the base unit about which the handle reclines. A further pivot may be provided on the base unit, above the first pivot and about which further pivot the user can rotate the guide part about a perpendicular axis, so as to permit pivoting from side-to side. In use the user urges the machine in a forwards or reverse direction across a floor to be cleaned. The base unit can be steered by twisting the handle so as to transfer torque to the base unit and cause it to yaw about a vertical axis. Steerable machines of this type are known from US2012 / 0279010 (published 8 November 2012) and rely upon the orthogonal pivots configured as Cardan (or universal) joints.

[0006] As an alternative to a Cardan joint, in another configuration it is known to use a flexible hollow connector member to attach the base unit to the upright guide part, as disclosed in W02020234904A1 (Technological Systems by Moro SRL). The connector member comprises a lengthened elastic and internally hollow push element constrained at its lower end portion to the base unit in the barycentre point of the machine base portion. The hollow centre or core of the connector member may be used to accommodate and guide hoses or cables such as power leads or liquid hoses.

[0007] One problem with the flexible hollow connector member of the type described above is that it can buckle and collapse or tear under the weight of the guide part and any ancillary cleaning liquid tanks carried by the guide part. Similarly, repeated pushing or pulling of the guide part by the operator can cause the connector member to collapse and cease to provide a smooth steering action. W02020234904A1 proposes the reinforcement of the connector member by a coil spring. The coil spring is typically stiff and resistant to bending, so requires some effort to overcome the spring’s predetermined vertical disposition so as to permit reclining up or down from the vertical in all directions of the guide part. The coil may also wind-up when the guide part is twisted by the use, making the steering action less precise as a means to transmit torques to the base unit. As such, the user experience is less convenient than for machines which use an arrangement of freely rotatable articulated pivots, such as is shown in US2012 / 0279010A1 .

[0008] The present invention seeks to provide an improved joint for connecting a base unit of a floor treatment machine to a guide part. The present invention provides a substantially solid, i.e. non-hollow, flexible connection between the guide part and the base unit. The flexible connection can flex to achieve a required range of movement of the guide part relative to the base unit.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a hand-guided floor treatment machine comprising a base unit which carries at least one motor-driven floor-facing treatment tool, and an elongate guide part which has an upper end region provided with a handle for guiding the machine in a working direction; wherein the base unit is connected to the guide part via a joint, the joint comprising a flexible member comprising a solid flexible core, wherein flexing of the flexible member enables the guide part to be tilted relative to the base unit in fore and aft, and side-to-side directions. The flexing is typically by bending along the length of the flexible member.

[0010] In use of the machine, the joint of the present invention can bend, i.e. flex, as the user applies force to tilt the guide part with respect to the base unit. Rotational / twisting movement of the flexible member is resisted or prevented, therefore enabling transmission of torque from the guide part to the base unit. To resist or prevent rotational / twisting movement of the flexible member, an outer region of the flexible member preferably has a higher stiffness (Young’s modulus) than an inner region (or core) of the flexible member.

[0011] The joint may further comprise an upper collar surrounding an upper end region of the solid flexible member, and a lower collar surrounding a lower end region of the solid flexible member, wherein the upper collar is attached to a lower end region of the guide part, directly or via an upper connector or adapter, and wherein the lower collar is attached to the base unit, directly or via a lower connector or adapter.

[0012] The upper end region of the solid flexible member may be received in a recess of the upper collar, and the lower end region of the solid flexible member may be received in a recess of the lower collar. The upper collar and the lower collar may be fixed (e.g. crimped) onto the upper end region and the lower end region of the solid flexible member respectively. In the case of crimping, crimping features provided within the collar recesses become embedded into the solid flexible member.

[0013] Alternatively, the joint may further comprise an upper mount attached to a lower end region of the guide part, and a base mount attached to the base unit, and the flexible member may extend between the upper mount and the base mount. Each of the mounts may comprise a mounting plate.

[0014] The flexible core may comprise a rubber or a rubber-like material such as an elastomer, preferably a polyurethane block. The core may comprise a cylindrical shaft. A spring, such as a coil spring, may be encased and / or embedded within the core. The spring could be a relatively high-strength spring, extending between an underside surface of the upper mount plate, and an upper surface of the base mount plate.

[0015] The cylindrical shaft and the internal spring enable flexing of a cylindrical flexible section of the joint, allowing a fore / aft and a side-to-side movement of the guide part, whilst preventing or limiting any rotational / twisting movement of the flexible section, therefore enabling transmission of torque from the guide part to the base unit during use of the machine.

[0016] The cylindrical shaft may be surrounded by an external sheath. The external sheath may, for example, be formed of a semi-rigid material, with a plurality of slots provided in the external sheath which provide a plurality of living hinges allowing flexing of the flexible member.

[0017] The living hinges enable flexing of the cylindrical flexible section, allowing a fore / aft and a side-to-side movement of the guide part, whilst preventing any rotational / twisting movement of the flexible section, therefore enabling transmission of torque from the guide part to the base unit during use of the machine.

[0018] The slots may be provided on the external sheath in a uniform pattern, i.e. in a consistent manner across the sheath. This enables consistent flexing across flexible sections of the sheath.

[0019] Alternatively, the external sheath may comprise a plurality of interlocked segments.

[0020] The interlocked segments may be stacked above one another between a top of the joint and a bottom of the joint, and the segments may each comprise a plurality of alternating teeth and recesses, wherein the teeth of one segment interlock into the recesses of an adjacent segment.

[0021] The plurality of interlocked segments may comprise an uppermost segment rigidly attached to an underside surface of the upper mount plate, and a lowermost segment rigidly attached to an upper surface of the base mount plate, and a plurality of intermediate segments located between the uppermost segment and the lowermost segment.

[0022] The combination of fixed uppermost and lowermost segments, and "floating" intermediate segments allows the flexible member to flex and allow a fore / aft and a side-to-side movement of the guide part, as the intermediate segments are able to separate to cope with stretching / flexing of the flexible member. When torque is applied, at least one side of the teeth of the segment will always be interlocked with an adjacent segment, therefore, allowing transmission of torque from the guide part to the base.

[0023] The segments may comprise flattened ring-shaped elements, each tapering in width from an internal diameter of the segment to an external diameter of the segment. As the joint flexes, adjacent ring-shaped segments are caused to separate on the far side of the bend and compress on the near side of the bend. The shape of the segments and the configuration of the teeth and recesses, results in a plurality of teeth and recesses of adjacent segments being interlocked as the joint is flexed. If a rotational force is applied to the joint, the interlocking between teeth and recesses of adjacent segments prevent the sheath from rotating, thereby enabling torque to be transferred from the guide part to the base unit.

[0024] The segments may comprise a first, external set of segments each comprising a flattened ring-shaped element, and a second, inner set of segments each of which bridge a gap between adjacent external segments, wherein a plurality of outwardly extending protrusions provided in a ring at the top and bottom of each of the inner segments each cooperate with, and are axially slidable within, a respective one of a plurality of curved inner recesses of the external segments.

[0025] The solid flexible core may be surrounded by a hose. The hose may have a smooth, spiral, or corrugated external profile. The hose may also have a smooth, spiral or corrugated internal profile. The hose may be formed of a plastic; for example, the hose could be moulded from a PA6 plastic. Walls of the hose may be reinforced by embedded metal or engineering plastic reinforcement, or by a metal braiding moulded into the walls of the hose. Conveniently, a hydraulic specification hose may be used. The hose may comprise one or more of: a smooth, spiral, or corrugated external profile; a smooth, spiral, or corrugated internal profile; a wall which is reinforced by an embedded metal or an engineering plastic reinforcement, or by a metal braiding moulded into walls of the hose; a rubber hydraulic hose; and a braided hose formed by a plurality of elongate flexible strips which are interlinked or braided to form a sheath .

[0026] The hose is preferably a hydraulic hose in accordance with ISO standards, such as one available from Hydrapac Italia under the designation Tekno 1 SN, which comprises a base tube of synthetic rubber, a reinforcement layer of steel braid and a cover layer of synthetic rubber.

[0027] When the hose is arranged around the internal cylindrical shaft and torque is applied to the joint, the hose prevents any twisting / rotation of the cylindrical flexible section. The hose and the cylindrical shaft therefore enable flexing of the cylindrical flexible section, allowing a fore / aft and a side-to-side movement of the guide part, whilst preventing any rotational / twisting movement of the flexible section, therefore enabling near instant transmission of torque with minimal lag from the guide part to the base unit during use of the machine. Without the internal cylindrical shaft, the hose would be susceptible to impact damage. During bending the cylindrical shaft prevents the hose from kinking by providing internal support.

[0028] Flexing of flexible member may enable the guide part to be tilted with respect to the guide part within a cone-shaped or hemispherical locus of movement. For example, tilting of the guide part up to a particular angle from a horizontal direction may be enabled. Angles of less than 90 degrees provides a cone-shaped locus of movement; an angle of 90 degrees provides a hemispherical locus of movement.

[0029] The joint may be configured to return the guide part to a vertical orientation under bias. The material(s) and configuration may be selected to provide a stiffness of the joint sufficiently low enough to allow tilting of the guide part when a user applies force to the handle, but sufficiently high to cause the joint to spring back to a non-flexed state when a user is not applying force to the handle, thereby return the guide part to a vertical / upright position. The machine may further comprise a locking mechanism comprising a locking member, movable between an unlocked position in which tilting of the guide part relative to the base unit is enabled, and a locked position in which tilting of the guide part relative to the base unit is prevented.

[0030] The locking mechanism can be used to lock the guide part in a vertical / upright position when the machine is not in use. A joint with a lower stiffness can therefore be provided.

[0031] The locking member may be biased towards an unlocked position.

[0032] The locking member may comprise a rigid collar, which in the unlocked position, is raised relative to the base unit and surrounds a lower end of the guide part, and which is lowerable towards the base unit thereby to move to the locked position in which the collar surrounds the joint. The locking mechanism may further comprise a locating means comprising a locating channel which receives a lower edge of the collar in the locked position. The locating channel may for example be provided in a lower collar of the joint.

[0033] The locking mechanism may further comprise an actuation mechanism comprising a lever arm moveable within a lever arm channel and mechanically connected to the rigid collar.

[0034] The joint may be at least partly surrounded by a flexible cover / sleeve, such as a silicone cover / sleeve, and / or a translucent cover / sleeve. The additional layer provided by the cover / sleeve provides an enhanced ingress protection for the joint.

[0035] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention there is provided a hand-guided floor treatment machine comprising a base unit which carries at least one motor-driven floor-facing treatment tool, and an elongate guide part which has an upper end region provided with a handle for guiding the machine in a working direction; wherein the base unit is connected to a lower end region of the guide part via a joint, the joint comprising a flexible member; wherein flexing of the flexible member enables the guide part to be tilted relative to the base unit in a fore and aft, and a side-to-side direction; wherein the flexible member may have a generally cylindrical configuration, and wherein a circumferential region of the flexible member is provided with structural reinforcement means which is configured and disposed to resist rotational twisting of one end of the flexible member with respect to the other end; and wherein the structural reinforcement means is configured and disposed to permit bending of one end of the flexible member relative to the other in any direction from the vertical; the arrangement being such that twisting of the guide part transfers the applied torque to the base unit so as to effect yaw steering thereof about a vertical axis of the base unit.

[0036] The amount of flexible member bending is consistent with the need for a user to recline the guide part for convenient us, and to allow user-pushing and / or pulling over a floor surface. Preferably the bend should allow movement of the machine from side-to-side and / or under obstructions such as tables.

[0037] The flexible member may preferably have a generally cylindrical configuration, but could alternatively have a configuration which is square, hexagonal, triangular, oblong or other shaped cross-sections, and may have a uniform cross-section from base to top of the flexible member.

[0038] The yaw steering obtained by the applied torque and guide part tilting is typically at least + / - 45 degrees rotation of the base unit.

[0039] The flexible member is preferably typically elongate in form. The flexible member typically comprises a solid flexible core. This provides constraint against collapsing or buckling of an otherwise hollow flexible member.

[0040] The structural reinforcement means may comprise one or more of fibre strands, laths, felt, or textile. The structural reinforcement means may comprise segments made of metal, metal alloy, carbon fibre, glass fibre, polyaramid, engineering plastic.

[0041] The structural reinforcement means may comprise oriented metal wire, metal wire braiding, metal wire lattice.

[0042] The structural reinforcement means is preferably disposed on or within the circumferential surface region of the flexible member, more preferably in the outer region of a sleeve or sheath which defines the flexible member. This provides good mechanical resistance to twisting of the flexible member.

[0043] The structural reinforcement means preferably extends in or on a surface region of the flexible member in an axial and / or circumferential direction. The structural reinforcement means may be moulded into a sub-surface region of the flexible member. This provides good environmental protection of the flexible member and a supportive matrix for the reinforcements.

[0044] The structural reinforcement may comprise an external shell of rigid sheet material, such as a tube of material having a crenelated, corrugated or a ribbed cross section.

[0045] Opposed end regions of the flexible member are accommodated and fixed in respective machine mounting features. The mounting features may comprise one or more flanges, plates, cups or collars, without limitation.

[0046] One mounting feature is typically fixed to a lower region of the guide part and another mounting feature is typically fixed to the base unit.

[0047] In one series of embodiments the structural reinforcement means may comprise a coiled spring disposed in or on the circumferential region of the flexible member, with a solid flexible core for supporting the coiled spring.

[0048] In another series of embodiments, the structural reinforcement means comprises axially disposed stacked, tessellated or interlocked cylindrical segments or subsegments. The stacking or tessellating of segments or sub-segments or interlocking of segments or sub-segments means that the segments are constrained from rotating axially with respect to one another, so as to resist at torques reaction against machine steering.

[0049] The segments or sub-segments may be disposed within a flexible sheath or cylindrical sleeve of the flexible member, for example by moulding.

[0050] The solid flexible core may comprise a resilient foam material, such as polyurethane, preferably a closed cell foam material. The solid flexible core may be any of: a sliding fit, an interference fit, an adhesive fit or a moulded insert in a hollow centre of the flexible member.

[0051] The machine may comprise a floor scrubber drier, which will typically mean that the machine has a cleaning liquid source or tank, a vacuum squeegee collector and a waste liquid collection tank. The floor treatment may be by agitation by floor tools using fibre brushes suitable for a range of floor surfaces. The floor tools may be disc-shaped or comprise one or more transverse rollers. The machine may have two counterrotating or co-rotating agitation discs. The machine may be provided with brush propulsion, or propulsion by one or more drive wheels. The machine may have one or more support wheels to carry at least part of the weight of the machine.

[0052] In yet a further aspect of the invention there is provided a joint as hereinbefore described for use in a hand-guided floor treatment machine of a type comprising a base unit which carries at least one motor-driven floor-facing treatment tool, and an elongate guide part which has an upper end region provided with a handle for guiding the machine in a working direction; wherein the base unit is connected to a lower end region of the guide part via a joint, the joint comprising a flexible member; wherein flexing of the flexible member enables the guide part to be tilted relative to the base unit in a fore and aft, and a side-to-side direction; wherein the flexible member has a generally cylindrical configuration, and wherein a circumferential region of the flexible member is provided with structural reinforcement means which is configured and disposed to substantially resist rotational shear of the flexible member by twisting one end with respect to the other; and wherein the structural reinforcement means is configured and disposed to permit bending of one end of the flexible member relative to the other in any direction from the vertical.

[0053] The structural reinforcement means may be provided by selection of a reinforcement material for the circumferential region having a greater intrinsic or structural stiffness than a core region of the flexible member. The structural reinforcement means can be provided by forming a composite material of fibres in a matrix, such as braiding in a flexible plastics material. High intrinsic stiffness may be provided by selecting a material have a high Young’s modulus. Structural stiffness maybe provided by a fibre web or weave or braid, or by solid features such as laths, or by providing an external shell or sheath of solid material.

[0054] Other aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description of specific embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures.

[0055] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference the accompanying drawings in which:

[0056] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a machine in accordance with the present invention;

[0057] Figure 2 is a schematic underside view of the machine of figure 1 ;

[0058] Figures 3a, 3b and 3c are schematic side views of machines in accordance with the present invention with differing tank configurations;

[0059] Figure 4a is a schematic side view of the machine of figure 1 , with the handle portion displaced from an upright position;

[0060] Figure 4b is a schematic rear view of the machine of figure 1 , with the handle portion displaced from an upright position;

[0061] Figures 5a and 5b are schematic views of a joint of a machine in accordance with the present invention;

[0062] Figures 6a, 6b and 6c are partial schematic front views of a machine in accordance with the present invention showing sequential steps of a method to lock the guide part;

[0063] Figures 6d, 6e and 6f are partial schematic front views of a machine in accordance with the present invention, corresponding to figures 6a, 6b and 6c respectively, and showing a fluid conduit and a wiring loom separate to the joint; Figure 7a is an isometric view of a first embodiment of flexible member in accordance with the present invention;

[0064] Figure 7b is a side view of the flexible member of figure 7a;

[0065] Figures 7c to 7e are side views of alternative external sheaths in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0066] Figures 8a and 8b are side views of further alternative external sheaths in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0067] Figure 8c is a schematic representation of forces encountered by struts of the external sheath of figure 8b;

[0068] Figures 8d to 8s are side views of further alternative external sheaths in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0069] Figure 8t is an isometric side view of an external sheath in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention, with a connecting section attached;

[0070] Figure 8u is a side view of the external sheath and connecting section of figure 8s, in a flexed condition;

[0071] Figure 9a is a partially transparent isometric view of a second embodiment of flexible member in accordance with the present invention;

[0072] Figure 9b is a partially transparent side view of the flexible member of figure 9a;

[0073] Figure 9c is a cross-sectional view along the section A-A as indicated in Figure 9b;

[0074] Figure 10a is an isometric view of a third embodiment of flexible member in accordance with the present invention;

[0075] Figure 10b is a side view of the flexible member of figure 10a; Figure 10c is a cross-sectional view along the section A-A as indicated in figure 10b;

[0076] Figure 10d is a side view of segments of a flexible member according to the third embodiment;

[0077] Figure 10a is an isometric side view of the segments of figure 10d;

[0078] Figure 10f is a top view of the segments of figure 10d;

[0079] Figures 10g and 10h are isometric side views of alternative external sheaths according to the third embodiment;

[0080] Figure 10i is an isometric side view of an alternative joint according to the third embodiment;

[0081] Figure 10j is a longitudinal cross-sectional side view of an alternative joint according to the third embodiment;

[0082] Figure 10k is a partial, cut-away view of the joint of figure 10j;

[0083] Figure 11 a is an isometric view of a fourth embodiment of flexible member in accordance with the present invention;

[0084] Figure 11 b is a side view of the flexible member of figure 11 a;

[0085] Figure 11c is a cross-sectional view along the section A-A as indicated in figure 11 b;

[0086] Figures 11 d and 11 e are side views of alternative hoses in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0087] Figure 11 f is a schematic representation of a corrugated profile;

[0088] Figures 11 g, is a side view of an alternative hose in accordance with the fourth embodiment of present invention, in a non-flexed condition; Figures 11 h and 11 i are side views of an alternative hose in accordance with the fourth embodiment of present invention, in a flexed condition;

[0089] Figure 11 j is a view of a joint in accordance with the fourth embodiment present invention comprising a braided hose;

[0090] Figure 11 k is a partial view of the braided hose of figure 11 i;

[0091] Figure 111 is a partial view of an alternative braided hose;

[0092] Figures 11 n and 11 o are views of a joint in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0093] Figure 11 p is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the joint of figures 11 n and 11o;

[0094] Figure 12a is an isometric view of an alternative joint in accordance with the present invention;

[0095] Figure 12b is a partially cut-out, isometric view of the upper mount of the joint of figure 12a;

[0096] Figure 12c is a partially cut-out, isometric view of the lower mount of the joint of figure 12a;

[0097] Figure 12d is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the joint of figure 12a;

[0098] Figure 12e is a partial view of the cylindrical flexible section of the joint of figure 11a;

[0099] Figure 13a is an isometric view of the joint of figure 12a attached to a base adapter;

[0100] Figure 13b is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the joint and joint adapter of figure 13a;

[0101] Figure 14 is a partial view of a machine including the joint of figure 13a; Figures 15a and 15c are end views of a joint in accordance with the present invention;

[0102] Figure 15b is a partially cross-sectional side view of the joint of figures 15a and 15b;

[0103] Figure 15d is an isometric view of the joint of figures 15a to 15c;

[0104] Figure 16a is a cross-section through a mounting collar in accordance with the present invention;

[0105] Figure 16b is and end view of the mounting collar of figure 16a;

[0106] Figure 16c is a partial cross-sectional view of the mounting collar of figure 16a;

[0107] Figure 16d is an isometric view of the mounting collar of figure 16a;

[0108] Figures 17a and 17c are end views of a joint in accordance with the present invention;

[0109] Figure 17b is a side view of the joint of figures 17a and 17c;

[0110] Figure 17d is a partial, cross-sectional view of a detail of the joint of figures 17a to 17c;

[0111] Figure 17e is a cross-sectional view along the line A-A in figure 17b;

[0112] Figure 17f is an isometric side view of the joint of figures 17a to 17e;

[0113] Figure 18a is a top view of an upper mounting collar in accordance with the invention;

[0114] Figure 18b is a cross-sectional side view of the collar of figure 18a;

[0115] Figure 18c is a side view of the collar of figure 18a;

[0116] Figures 18d and 18e are partial, cross-sectional views of details of the collar of figure 18a; Figure 18f is an isometric side view of the collar of figure 18a;

[0117] Figure 19a is an end view of a lower mounting collar in accordance with the invention;

[0118] Figure 19b is a cross-sectional side view of the collar of figure 19a;

[0119] Figures 19c and 19d are isometric side views of the collar of figure 19a;

[0120] Figures 19e and 19f are partial, cross-sectional view of details of the collar of figure 19a;

[0121] Figure 20a is a top view of an upper mounting collar in accordance with the invention;

[0122] Figure 20b is a cross-sectional side view of the collar of figure 20a;

[0123] Figure 20c is a side view of the collar of figure 20a;

[0124] Figures 20d and 20e are partial, cross-sectional views of details of the collar of figure 20a;

[0125] Figure 20f is an isometric side view of the collar of figure 20a;

[0126] Figure 21a is an end view of a lower mounting collar in accordance with the invention;

[0127] Figure 21b is a cross-sectional side view of the collar of figure 21a;

[0128] Figures 21c and 21 d are isometric side views of the collar of figure 21a;

[0129] Figures 21 e and 21 f are partial, cross-sectional views of details of the collar of figure 21a;

[0130] Figure 22a is a top view of an upper mounting collar in accordance with the invention;

[0131] Figure 22b is a cross-sectional side view of the collar of figure 22a; Figure 22c is a side view of the collar of figure 22a;

[0132] Figures 22d and 22e are partial, cross-sectional views of details of the collar of figure 22a;

[0133] Figure 22f is an isometric side view of the collar of figure 22a;

[0134] Figure 23a is an end view of a lower mounting collar in accordance with the invention;

[0135] Figure 23b is a cross-sectional side view of the collar of figure 213a;

[0136] Figures 23c and 23d are isometric side views of the collar of figure 23a;

[0137] Figures 23e and 23f are partial, cross-sectional views of details of the collar of figure 23a;

[0138] Figure 24a is a side view of an upper mounting collar in accordance with the invention;

[0139] Figures 24b and 24c are isometric side views of the collar or figure 24a;

[0140] Figure 25 is an isometric side view of a machine in accordance with the invention;

[0141] Figures 26a and 26b are partial isometric side views of a lower portion of the machine of figure 25;

[0142] Figures 27a to 27c are isometric partial views of an upper portion of the machine of figure 25, showing sequential steps of actuation of a locking mechanism in accordance with the invention;

[0143] Figures 28a is a isometric partial view of a lower portion of the machine of figure 25;

[0144] Figure 28b is a partial, cut-away view of the lower portion of the machine of figure 25;

[0145] Figure 28b is a partial, cross-sectional view of the lower portion of the machine of figure 25; Figure 29a is an exploded isometric view showing the components of a joint in accordance with the present invention;

[0146] Figures 29b is a cross-sectional view of a lower end of the joint of figure 29a when assembled;

[0147] Figure 29c is a cross-sectional view of a lower mounting collar of figure the joint of figures 29a;

[0148] Figure 30 is an isometric view of the joint of figure 28a when assembled;

[0149] Figure 31 is an isometric partial view of a machine comprising the joint of figure 29a;

[0150] Figure 32a is an isometric partial view of a machine comprising the joint of figure 29a, in a handle-locked position;

[0151] Figure 32b is an isometric partial view of a machine comprising the joint of figure 29a, in a handle-unlocked position;

[0152] Figure 33a is an isometric side view of a machine comprising the joint of figure 29a, in a handle-locked position;

[0153] Figure 33b is an isometric side view of a machine comprising the joint of figure 29a, in a handle-unlocked position; and

[0154] Figures 34a and 34b are schematic representations of a machine comprising an alternative locking mechanism;

[0155] Figures 35a to 35c are partial, front views of a lower portion of a machine, showing sequential steps of actuation of a first alternative locking mechanism in accordance with the invention;

[0156] Figures 36a to 36c are top views of base units of machines illustrating different versions of the first alternative locking mechanism of figures 35a to 35c; Figures 37a and 37b are partial, front views of a lower portion of a machine comprising a second alternative locking mechanism in accordance with the invention;

[0157] Figures 38a to 38c are partial view of the second alternative locking mechanism of figures 37a and 37b;

[0158] Figure 39a is a partial isometric view of a third alternative locking mechanism according to the invention;

[0159] Figures 39b to 39h are side views of the third alternative locking mechanism of figure 39a;

[0160] Figures 40a to 40c are partial, side views of a joint of a machine, showing sequential steps of actuation of a fourth alternative locking mechanism in accordance with the invention;

[0161] Figures 40d and 40e are top views of the fourth alternative locking mechanism of figures 40a to 40c;

[0162] Figures 41a to 41c are partial, side views of a lower portion of a machine, showing sequential steps of actuation of a fifth alternative locking mechanism in accordance with the invention;

[0163] Figures 42a to 42d are partial, side views of a joint of a machine, showing sequential steps of actuation of a sixth alternative locking mechanism in accordance with the invention;

[0164] Figure 42e is a side view of a means of engaging / disengaging the sixth alternative locking mechanism of figures 42a to 42d; and

[0165] Figures 43a to 43d are partial, side views of a joint of a machine, showing sequential steps of actuation of a seventh alternative locking mechanism in accordance with the invention. Figure 1 illustrates a hand-guided floor treatment machine 2 comprising a base unit 4, and an elongate guide part or handle portion 6.

[0166] The base unit 4 carries a floor-facing treatment tool 8. As illustrated in figure 2, the floor-facing treatment tool 8 comprises two disc-shaped tools 10,12, arranged for counter-rotation, i.e. in the directions R1 and R2 respectively. The floor-treatment tool 8 may alternatively or additionally comprise an agitating medium, such as brush bristles, wire bristles or abrasive paper, polish pads or web.

[0167] Referring to figures 3a, 3b and 3c, the machine 2 is provided with a tank assembly 14 (illustrated in figures 3a, 3b and 3c), comprising a cleaning liquid reservoir or tank and a waste liquid collection tank.

[0168] Various configurations of the tank assembly 14 are possible. For example, figure 3a shows the tank assembly 14 attached to the base unit 4, figure 3b shows the tank assembly 14 attached to the guide part 6, and figure 3c shows the tank assembly 14 split between the base unit 4 and the guide part 6, i.e. one of the clean water reservoir and the waste water collection tank is provided on the base unit, and the other is provided on the guide part 6.

[0169] During use of the machine 2, a user grips a handle 16 provided at the end of the guide part 6 remote from the base unit 6, urges the machine in a forwards or reverse direction across a floor to be cleaned, and steers the machine 2 by tilting the guide part 6, with respect to the base unit 4, in a forwards or backwards and / or side-to-side direction.

[0170] Means (not shown) are provided for delivering cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid reservoir to the floor tool to provide wet cleaning. A suction collector (not shown) is provided for lifting waste liquid from the floor and conveying it to the waste liquid collection tank. The suction collector comprises a floor-facing trailing squeegee collector assembly 18 disposed behind the floor facing treatment tool 8 in a normal forwards direction of cleaning, indicated by arrow F in figure 2. The base unit 4 is connected to the guide part 6 via a joint 20. The joint 20 comprises a flexible member, which enables the guide part 6 to be tilted in a forwards / backwards and side-to-side direction in use of the machine 2. For example, referring to figures 4a and 4b, the guide part 6 may be tilted to a maximum angle 0 away from a vertical orientation V.

[0171] Figure 4a shows the guide part 6 tilted forwards at an angle 0 to the horizontal orientation V. The guide part 6 can also be tilted backwards, i.e. to the right in the orientation of figure 4a, up to angle 0. Figure 4b shows the guide part 6 tilted to one side, i.e. to the right in the orientation of figure 4b, to angle 0. The guide part 6 can also be tilted to the opposite direction, i.e. to the left in the orientation of figure 4b, up to angle 0. Angle 0 could, for example be 45 degrees. For angle 0 values up to 90 degrees, a cone-shaped range of movement is enabled, i.e. the guide part 6 can be tilted relative the base unit 4 within a cone-shaped locus of movement defined by angle 0. In some embodiments, an angle 0 of 90 degrees could be enabled, providing a hemispherical locus of tilting movement the guide part 6 relative to the base unit 4.

[0172] The joint 20 may be configured to return the guide part 6 to a vertical orientation under bias. For example, the material and / or configuration of the joint 20 may be selected to provide a stiffness of the joint 20 which is sufficiently low so as to allow the user to tilt the handle portion 6 away from the vertical orientation when required, yet sufficiently high so as to cause the joint 20 to spring back to a non-flexed configuration, thereby to return the guide part 6 to a vertical position, when user force has been removed.

[0173] Figure 5a illustrates the joint 20 when a user is applying a force to the guide part 6 (for example via the handle 16, or by pushing directly on the guide part 6), thereby causing the guide part 6 to be tilted away from the vertical orientation V. One side (the left side in the orientation of figure 5a) of the joint 20 experiences a tension force, indicated by arrows T, as it is stretched, and the other side (the right side in the orientation of figure 6a) experiences a compressive force, indicated as arrow C, as it is compressed. The handle portion 6 will maintain this tilted orientation as long as the user is applying sufficient force to the handle portion 6 to overcome a natural biasing / shape memory of the joint 20. When the user stops applying any force to the handle portion 6, the flexible member returns, in the direction of arrow R in figure 6b, to the upright position, i.e. to a vertical orientation, under the natural biasing / shape memory of the joint 20. The handle portion 6 will remain in the upright position until next use, without a requirement for a locking mechanism.

[0174] As an alternative to, or in addition to, configuring the joint 20 to return the handle / guide part 6 to a vertical / upright position under bias as described above, a joint / handle locking mechanism may be provided.

[0175] Figures 6b and 6c illustrate sequential steps of a handle locking mechanism.

[0176] Figure 6a is a schematic view of a flexible member providing the joint 20, connecting the base unit 4 and the guide part 6. The joint 20 is free to flex by bending, thereby to tilt the guide part 6 with respect to the base unit 4, forwards and backwards, and side to side, within the full cone-shaped or hemispherical range of movement as discussed above.

[0177] In this embodiment, the joint 20 is of a stiffness which is sufficiently low that it does not maintain the guide part 6 in a vertical orientation / upright position, i.e. when the guide part 4 is not being held by a user or rested against a wall, the joint 20 will flex and allow the guide part 6 to fall under its own weight.

[0178] Figures 6b and 6c illustrate a locking mechanism which can be used to maintain the handle portion / guide part 6 in an upright position, i.e. in a substantially vertical orientation, for example when the machine 2 is not in use. The locking mechanism comprises a locking member comprising a rigid collar 30, and a location means comprising an aperture / locating channel 34.

[0179] Figure 6b shows an unlocked position, wherein the collar 30 is in a raised position, surrounding the guide part 6 at a lower end thereof. The joint 20 is uncovered and is free to flex, thereby to tilt the guide part 6 with respect to the base unit, within the full range of movement. The collar 30 is moveable from the raised position of figure 6b, downwardly towards the base unit 4, (i.e. axially with respect to the guide part 6, in the direction of arrow L in figure 6c), to a locked position as shown in figure 6c. The collar 30 is moved downwardly until a lower edge 32 of the collar 30 locates into the aperture / channel 34, which is located on an upper surface 44 of the base unit 4.

[0180] In the locked position, the joint 20 is surrounded by the collar 20, and the collar 20 is rigidly fixed in position with respect to the base unit 4 by the location of the lower edge 32 within the aperture 34. The joint 20 is thereby locked, i.e. flexing of the joint 20 is prevented by the collar 20. The handle portion / guide part 6 of the machine 2 is therefore also locked, i.e. it is prevented from tilting with respect to the base unit 6, and is maintained in an upright position / substantially vertical orientation.

[0181] Figures 6d, 6e and 6f are views corresponding to figure 6a, 6b and 6c respectively, and also showing a fluid conduit 36 and a wiring loom 38 of the machine 2. The fluid conduit 36 conveys fluid between the clean water reservoir and the waste water collection tank of the tank assembly 14 and the squeegee collector assembly 18, and the wiring loom 38 provides an electrical connection between relevant components of the machine.

[0182] The fluid conduit 36 and wiring loom 38 are located separately to the joint 20, i.e. they bypass the joint 20. Furthermore, as described above, the components of the locking mechanism are also separate from the joint 20, i.e. the locking mechanism comprises components 30 34 which are independent from the joint 20.

[0183] Providing the fluid conduit 36, the wiring loom 38, and the locking mechanism 30, 34, as components which are independent from the joint 20, provides significant advantages, such as in simplifying maintenance. Specifically, the joint 20 can be disassembled and removed, i.e. to be repaired or replaced, without requiring disassembly of the fluid delivery conduit 36, the wiring loom 38, or the locking mechanism 30, 34 (the collar 30 of the locking mechanism is moved to the unlocked / raised position in order to allow access to the joint 20 for disassembly thereof). For example, removal of the joint may involve only removal of bolts attaching it to other components the machine. Downtime of the machine is thereby minimised. If any components such as the fluid conduit 36, wiring loom 38 or locking mechanism 30, 34 were integrated within the joint 20, extensive disassembly would be required to enable removal of the joint 20 from the machine.

[0184] Figures 7a onwards disclose example embodiments of the joint 20 of the present invention. Features disclosed in respect of one embodiment may be provided in combination with features of another embodiment.

[0185] Figures 7a and 7b illustrate a first example embodiment of the joint, indicated generally as 120. For simplicity, only the joint 120 is shown; other parts of the machine are not shown.

[0186] In this embodiment the joint 120 comprises a solid flexible member comprising a substantially cylindrical flexible section 124.

[0187] The cylindrical flexible section 124 comprises a core provided by a solid internal shaft 126 formed of a flexible material such as a rubber-like material, and an external sheath 128 formed of a semi-rigid plastic material, which surrounds the internal shaft 126.

[0188] The internal shaft 126 is visible in the figures through a plurality of slots / cut-outs 130 provided in the external sheath 128. The slots 130 in the external sheath 128 provide a plurality of living hinges 122, i.e. integral hinges / flexure bearings. Locations of the visible living hinges 122 on Figure 7b are each indicated by an X.

[0189] At an upper end of the joint 120 is provided an upper flange / upper mount plate 150, and at a lower end of the joint 120 is provided a lower flange / base mount plate 160. A lower end of the guide part 6 of the machine 2 is fixedly attached to an upper surface 152 of the upper mount plate 150. The guide part 6 may be attached to the upper mount plate 150 directly, or via an upper adapter or connecting part, which may be attached to the upper mount plate 150 via bolts. Another component such as a collar may also be provided, instead of or in addition to, the upper mount plate. Further examples of attachment means for connecting the guide part 6 and the joint 120 are provided below. An underside surface 164 of the base mount plate 160 is fixedly attached to the base unit 4 of the machine 2. The base mount plate 160 may be attached to the base unit 4 directly, or via a lower adapter or connecting part, which may be attached to the base mount plate 160 via bolts. Another component such as a collar may also be provided, instead of or in addition to, the base mount plate 160. Further examples of attachment means for connecting the joint 120 to the base unit 4 are provided below.

[0190] The living hinges 122 enable flexing of the cylindrical flexible section 124, allowing a fore / aft and a side-to-side movement of the guide part 6, whilst preventing any rotational / twisting movement of the flexible section 124, therefore enabling transmission of torque from the handle 16 of the machine, via the guide part 6, to the base unit 4 during use of the machine 2. The slots 130 are provided on the external sheath 128 in a consistent manner, i.e. in a uniform pattern, to enable consistent flexing across the flexible section 124.

[0191] Tilting of the guide part 6 with respect to the base unit 4 is thereby enabled by the flexible section 124 of the joint 120. The guide part 6 may be tilted with respect to the base unit 4, for example by up to 90 degrees from a vertical direction.

[0192] Figures 7c to 7e are side views of alternative external sheaths in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention, each having alternative configurations providing a plurality of living hinges. The solid internal shaft 126 is omitted from these views but would be included as described above in respect of figures 7a and 7b.

[0193] The alternative external sheaths of figures 7c to 7e are indicated generally by 128’, and the living hinges by 122’. Similarly to the sheath of figures 7a and 7b, the living hinges 122’ of the sheaths 128’ of figures 7c to 7e are provided by a plurality of slots / cut-outs 130’.

[0194] Figures 8a, 8b, and 8d to 8s illustrate further alternative external sheaths according to the second embodiment. The solid internal shaft 126 is omitted from these views but would be included as described above in respect of figures 7a and 7b. The alternative external sheaths of these figures are indicated generally by 128”.

[0195] In these figures, the living hinges, indicated generally by 122”, are provided by latticed areas, defined by a plurality of slots / cut-outs 130” and a plurality of struts 131 . Figure 8c is a schematic representation of forces encountered by the struts 131 of the external sheath 122” of figure 8b. As illustrated in the top section of figure 8c, the lattice structure is easily compressed on a near side of a bend when the joint is flexed. As illustrated in the middle section of the figure, when experiencing torsional load, the lattice structure resists deformation, enabling transferal of torque applied by the user to the handle of the guide part 6, to the base unit 4. As illustrated in the lower section of the figure, the lattice structure is easily stretched on a far side of a bend when the joint is flexed.

[0196] Figures 8t and 8u illustrate a joint 120” according to the second embodiment, with a connecting section 188 attached. The solid internal shaft 126 is omitted from these views but would be included as described above in respect of figures 7a and 7b.

[0197] The joint 120” comprises an external sheath 128” with a lattice structure, defined by slots / cut-outs 130 and struts 131 ”. The connecting section 188 is attached to the upper mount plate 150” of the joint 120”. The connecting section 188 comprises a recess 189 for receiving a corresponding part of the lower end of the guide part 6 of the machine 2.

[0198] Figure 8t shows the joint 120” in a non-flexed condition, i.e. when the guide part 6 is in an upright / configuration position. Figure 8u shows the joint 820” in a flexed condition, i.e. when the guide part 6 has been tilted away from an upright / vertical configuration.

[0199] Figures 9a to 9c illustrate a second embodiment of the joint, indicated generally as 220. For simplicity, only the joint 220 is shown; other parts of the machine are not shown. In this embodiment, the joint 220 comprises a solid flexible member comprising a cylindrical flexible section 224.

[0200] The cylindrical flexible section 224 comprises a core provided by a solid shaft 240 formed of a flexible material such as a rubber-like material, which is over-moulded onto a high-strength internal coil spring 242 so as to enclose the internal spring 242 within the shaft 240. In figures 9a and 9b, the shaft 240 is illustrated as partially transparent so as to illustrate the spring 242. At an upper end of the joint 220 is provided an upper flange I upper mount plate 250, and at a lower end of the joint 220 is provided a lower flange / base mount plate 260. A lower end of the guide part 6 of the machine 2 is fixedly attached to an upper surface 252 of the upper mount plate 250. The guide part 6 may be attached to the upper mount plate 250 directly, or via an upper adapter or connecting part, which may be attached to the upper mount plate 250 via bolts. Another component such as a collar may also be provided, instead of or in addition to, the upper mount plate. Further examples of attachment means for connecting the guide part 6 and the joint 220 are provided below. An underside surface 264 of the base mount plate 260 is fixedly attached to the base unit 4 of the machine 2. The base mount plate 260 may be attached to the base unit 4 directly, or via a lower adapter or connecting part, which may be attached to the base mount plate 260 via bolts. Another component such as a collar may also be provided, instead of or in addition to, the base mount plate 260. Further examples of attachment means for connecting the joint 220 to the base unit 4 are provided below.

[0201] The shaft 240 and the internal spring 242 extend between an underside surface 254 of the upper mount plate 250, and an upper surface 262 of the base mount plate 260.

[0202] The shaft 240 and the internal spring 242 enable flexing of the cylindrical flexible section 224, allowing a fore / aft and a side-to-side movement of the guide part 6, whilst preventing any rotational / twisting movement of the flexible section 224, therefore enabling transmission of torque from the guide part 6 to the base unit 4 during use of the machine 2.

[0203] Tilting of the guide part 6 with respect to the base unit 4 is thereby enabled by the flexible section 224 of the joint 220. The guide part 6 may be tilted with respect to the base unit 4, for example by up to 90 degrees from a vertical direction.

[0204] Figures 10a to 10c illustrate a third embodiment of the joint, indicated generally as 320. For simplicity, only the joint 320 is shown; other parts of the machine are not shown.

[0205] At an upper end of the joint 320 is provided an upper flange / upper mount plate 350, and at a lower end of the joint 320 is provided a lower flange / base mount plate 360. The guide part 6 may be attached to the upper mount plate 350 directly, or via an upper adapter or connecting part, which may be attached to the upper mount plate 350 via bolts. Another component such as a collar may also be provided, instead of or in addition to, the upper mount plate. Further examples of attachment means for connecting the guide part 6 and the joint 320 are provided below.

[0206] A lower end of the guide part 6 of the machine 2 is fixedly attached to an upper surface 352 of the upper mount plate 350. An underside surface 364 of the base mount plate 360 is fixedly attached to the base unit 4 of the machine 2. The base mount plate 360 may be attached to the base unit 4 directly, or via a lower adapter or connecting part, which may be attached to the base mount plate 360 via bolts. Another component such as a collar may also be provided, instead of or in addition to, the base mount plate 360. Further examples of attachment means for connecting the joint 320 to the base unit 4 are provided below.

[0207] In this embodiment, the joint 320 comprises a solid flexible member comprising a substantially cylindrical section 324.

[0208] The substantially cylindrical section 324 comprises a core provided by an internal solid flexible member 340 (visible on the cross-sectional view of figure 10c), surrounded by an external sheath comprising a plurality of interlocked segments 346.

[0209] Each of the segments 346 is provided with a plurality of alternating teeth and recesses, wherein the teeth of one segment 346 interlock into the recesses of an adjacent (i.e. above / below) segment 346.

[0210] The plurality of segments 346 includes an uppermost segment 346a, a lowermost segment 346c, and one or more intermediate segments 346b. The uppermost segment 346a is adjacent to, and mechanically fixed to, an underside surface 354 the upper mount plate 350, and the lowermost segment 346c is adjacent to, and mechanically fixed to, an upper surface 362 the base mount plate 360.

[0211] The intermediate segments 346b are stacked vertically above each other between the uppermost segment 346a and the lowermost segment 346b, and are maintained in position vertically by the uppermost segment 346a and the upper mount plate 350, and by the lowermost segment 346b and the base mount plate 360. The intermediate segments 346b are otherwise "floating", i.e. they not mechanically joined to one another, or to any other part of the joint 320. This allows the joint 320 to flex, enabling a fore / aft and a side-to-side movement of the guide member 6, as the intermediate segments 346b are able to separate to cope with stretching / flexing of the flexible member 324. When torque is applied, at least one side of the teeth of the segment 346 will always be interlocked with an adjacent segment 346, therefore, allowing transmission of torque from the guide part to the base.

[0212] The internal flexible member 340 and the external floating segments 346 enable flexing of the cylindrical flexible section 124, allowing a fore / aft and a side-to-side movement of the guide part 6, whilst preventing any rotational / twisting movement of the flexible section 324, therefore enabling transmission of torque from the guide part 6 to the base unit 4 during use of the machine 2.

[0213] Tilting of the guide part 6 with respect to the base unit 4 is thereby enabled by the flexible section 324 of the joint 320. The guide part 6 may be tilted with respect to the base unit 4, for example by up to 90 degrees from a vertical direction.

[0214] Tilting of the guide part 6 with respect to the base unit 4 is thereby enabled by the flexible section of the joint 320. The guide part 6 may be tilted with respect to the base unit 4, for example by up to 90 degrees from a vertical direction.

[0215] Figures 10d to 10f illustrate segments 346A of an alternative external sheath according to the third embodiment.

[0216] Figures 10d and 10e illustrate how, when the joint is flexed, adjacent (i.e. above and below) segments 346A separate on the far side of the bend (on the left hand side in Figure 10d, and to the rear of Figure 10e), and compress on the near side of the bend (on the right hand side in Figure 10d, and to the front of Figure 10e). If a rotational force is applied to the joint, the teeth of one segment 346A lock into the recesses of an adjacent segment 346A, to prevent the sheath from rotating, thereby enabling torque to be transferred from the guide part 6 to the base unit 4.

[0217] Figures 10g and 10h illustrate further alternative external sheaths 342B, 342C according to the third embodiment, comprising interlocking segments 346B, 346C respectively. The internal solid flexible member 340 is not illustrated in these figures but would be present similarly as illustrated in the joint 320 of figures 10a to 10c.

[0218] Figures 10i and 10j illustrate examples of further alternative joints 320D, 320E according to the third embodiment. Similarly to the joint 320 of figures 10a to 10c, the joints 320D, 320E each comprises a sheath 324D, 324E provided by a plurality of stacked segments 346D, 346E.

[0219] The segments 346D of the joint 320D of figures 10i each comprise a flattened ring / torus-shaped element, provided with a plurality of alternating teeth and recesses, wherein the teeth of one segment 346A interlock into the recesses of an adjacent (i.e. above / below) segment 346A. Each segment 346A tapers, from an internal diameter towards an outer diameter.

[0220] As the joint 320D flexes, adjacent segments 346D are caused to separate on the far side of the bend and compress on the near side of the bend, as described above in respect of Figures 10d and 10e. The shape of the segments 346D, and the configuration of the teeth and recesses, results in a plurality of teeth and recesses of adjacent segments 346D being interlocked as the joint 320D is flexed. If a rotational force is applied to the joint 320D, the interlocking between teeth and recesses of adjacent segments 346D prevent the sheath 324D from rotating, thereby enabling torque to be transferred from the guide part 6 to the base unit 4.

[0221] The joint 320E of figures 10j and 10k comprises a first, external set of segments 346E, each comprising a flattened ring / torus-shaped element with teeth and recesses as described above. This joint 320E further comprises a second, inner set of segments 347E, each of which bridge a gap between adjacent external segments 346E. A plurality of outwardly extending protrusions 345E are provided in a ring at the top and bottom of each of the inner segments 347A (the protrusion 345E are shown most clearly in figure 10k, in which the internal flexible section 340E is omitted). Further protrusions 345E are provided on a downwardly extending flange of the upper mounting plate 350E, and on an upwardly extending flange of the lower mounting plate 360E. The protrusions 345E cooperate with curved inner recesses 343E of the external segments 346E, thereby to maintain the external segments 346A and internal segments 347E linked together. As the joint 320E is flexed, the protrusions 345E can slide axially within the curved inner recesses 343E. However, if a rotational force is applied to the joint 320E, the protrusions 345E abut a ridge between adjacent curved recesses 343E, and thereby prevent rotation of the sheath 324E, thereby enabling transfer of torque from the guide part 6 to the base unit 4.

[0222] Figures 11 a to 11 e illustrate a fourth embodiment of the joint, indicated as 420. For simplicity, only the joint 420 is shown; other parts of the machine are not shown.

[0223] In this embodiment, the joint 420 comprises a solid flexible member comprising a substantially cylindrical flexible section 424.

[0224] The cylindrical flexible section 424 comprises a hose 448, which is tightly wound around a core, provided by an internal, solid cylindrical rod / shaft 440 (visible on the cross-sectional view of figure 11c), formed of a flexible material such as a rubber-like material.

[0225] At an upper end of the joint 420 is provided an upper flange / upper mount plate 450, and at a lower end of the joint 420 is provided a lower flange / base mount plate 460. A lower end of the guide part 6 of the machine 2 is fixedly attached to an upper surface 452 of the upper mount plate 450. The guide part 6 may be attached to the upper mount plate 450 directly, or via an upper adapter or connecting part, which may be attached to the upper mount plate 450 via bolts, for example using bolt apertures 451 located in corners of the upper mount plate 450. Another component such as a collar may also be provided, instead of or in addition to, the upper mount plate. Further examples of attachment means for connecting the guide part 6 and the joint 420 are provided below.

[0226] An underside surface 464 of the base mount plate 460 is fixedly attached to the base unit 4 of the machine 2. The base mount plate 460 may be attached to the base unit 4 directly, or via a lower adapter or connecting part, which may be attached to the base mount plate 460 via bolts, for example using bolt apertures 461 located in corners of the base mount plate 460. Another component such as a collar may also be provided, instead of or in addition to, the base mount plate 460. Further examples of attachment means for connecting the joint 420 to the base unit 4 are provided below.

[0227] The hose 448 and the internal cylindrical shaft 440 extend between an underside surface 454 of the upper mount plate 450, and an upper surface 464 of the base mount plate 460.

[0228] The hose 448 of figures 11a to 11c has a spiral external profile 470, and a smooth internal profile 472. The internal and external profiles of other alternative embodiments of hoses could be spiral, corrugated, or smooth, or a combination thereof.

[0229] The hose 448 may be formed of a plastic; for example, the hose 448 could be moulded in a PA6 plastic. Walls of the hose 448 could be reinforced by embedded metal or engineering plastic reinforcement.

[0230] When the hose 448 is arranged around the internal cylindrical shaft 440 and torque is applied to the joint 420, the hose 448 prevents any twisting / rotation of the cylindrical flexible section 424. The hose 448 and the cylindrical shaft 440 therefore enable flexing of the cylindrical flexible section 424, allowing a fore / aft and a side-to-side movement of the guide part 6, whilst preventing any rotational / twisting movement of the flexible section 424, therefore enabling near instant transmission of torque with minimal lag from the guide part 6 to the base unit 4 during use of the machine 2. Without the internal cylindrical shaft 440, the hose 448 would be susceptible to impact damage. During bending the cylindrical shaft 440 prevents the hose 448 from kinking by providing internal support.

[0231] Tilting of the guide part 6 with respect to the base unit 4 is thereby enabled by the flexible section of the joint 420. The guide part 6 may be tilted with respect to the base unit 4, for example by up to 90 degrees from a vertical direction.

[0232] Figures 11 d and 11 e illustrate alternative hoses 448A, 448B suitable for use with the fourth embodiment of the present invention as described above. Each hose 448A, 448B has a corrugated external profile 470', 470" respectively. Figure 10f is a schematic representation of corrugated profile. Figures 11 g, 11 h and 11 i are side views of a further corrugated hose 448C suitable for use with the fourth embodiment of the present invention as described above. Figure 11 g illustrates the hose 448C in a non-flexed, i.e. straight, condition, when the guide part 6 of the machine is in a vertical / upright position. Figures 11 h and 11 i each illustrate the hose 448C in a flexed / bent condition, when the guide part 6 of the machine is in a non-vertical / non-upright position.

[0233] As described above with respect to figure 5a, when the user applies a force to the guide part 6 of the machine (for example via the handle 16, or by pushing directly on the guide part 6), the guide part 6 is thereby caused to be tilted away from the vertical orientation V.

[0234] The corrugated hose 448A / B / C is flexible across its entire structure. The corrugations allow the hose 448AB / C to bend non-rigidly in multiple directions / planes, providing significant flexibility. As the corrugated hose of the 448A / B / C enables distributed deformation along the entire length of the hose, it can bend smoothly across multiple flexible “hinges” formed by the ridges and valleys of the corrugation. The flexible core (provided by the internal, solid cylindrical rod 440), helps with gradual, smooth bending by acting as cushion, and by distributing stresses across both the outer and inner walls of the hose 448A / B / C and providing elasticity for recovery. The bending is not focused on a single point; rather, it is spread across a wider region, allowing more flexibility and deformation.

[0235] The solid flexible core 440 helps distribute the stress more evenly across the entire structure of the hose 448A / B / C. Without the core, most of the stress would be concentrated on the corrugations (ridges and valleys), especially at the points where the hose 448A / B / C is being bent. With the solid flexible core 440, the stress during bending is absorbed and spread throughout the hose 448A / B / C and the core 440, reducing the chance of localised damage or material failure.

[0236] As illustrated in figures 11 h and 11 i, when the hose 448A / B / C flexes / bends, one side (the right side in the orientation of figures 11 h and 11 i) of the joint 20 including the hose 448A / B / C experiences tensile forces T, which act the stretching the corrugations. The other side (the left side in the orientation of figures 11 h and 11 i) of the joint 20 including the hose 448A / B / C experiences compressive forces C, compressing the corrugations. The solid flexible core 440 supports the corrugations on the compressed side, by resisting excessive collapse, maintaining structural integrity, and helping the hose 448A / B / C revert to its original shape. On the tensile / stretched side, the solid flexible core 440 provides a counteracting force which prevents inward collapse of hose 448A / B / C, and helps the corrugations return to their normal shape after stretching, avoiding overextension or fatigue damage to the material.

[0237] A bend radius of the hose 448AC will change as a user manipulates the guide part 6 during use of the machine 2, tilting it by a varying angular distance away from a vertical orientation. Figure 10h illustrates the hose 448C when the guide part 6 of the machine 2 has been tilted to a first angular position away from vertical; the hose 448C has a first radius of curvature R1 . Figure 10i illustrates the hose 448C when the guide part 6 has been tilted to a second angular position away from vertical, greater than the first angular position; the hose 448C has a second radius of curvature R2.

[0238] Figure 11 j is a view of a joint 420D in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention, comprising a braided hose 448D. The braided hose 448D is formed by a plurality of elongate flexible strips 480, interlinked / braided to form a sheath. The strips 480 are illustrated in an expanded, i.e. partially separated form in figure 11 k. figure 111 is a partial view of another joint 420E comprising a braided hose 448E.

[0239] Figure 11 m illustrates a further alternative braided hose 448F.

[0240] The strips 480 could be formed of a metal such as stainless steel.

[0241] As described above in respect of other joints of the fourth embodiment, the braided hose 448D and the solid flexible core 440 enable flexing of the cylindrical flexible section 424, allowing a fore / aft and a side-to-side movement of the guide part 6, within a full range of movement. When torque is applied to the joint 420 via user manipulation of the guide part 6 during use of the machine, the braided hose 448D prevents twisting I rotation of the cylindrical flexible section 424, therefore ensuring transmission of torque from the guide part 6 to the base unit 4.

[0242] The tightness of the braiding of the strips 480 forming the hose 448D, and the material forming the strips 480, is selected so as to allow sufficient relative movement between the strips 480 to allow the hose 448D to flex, yet to provide sufficient rigidity and ensure transfer of torque from the guide part 6 to the base unit 4 of the machine.

[0243] Figures 11 n to 11 p illustrate a further joint 420G accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention. The joint 420G comprises a solid flexible core 440G (indicated in the cross-sectional view of figure 11 p), surrounded by an external sheath 448G comprising a rubber hose such as a heavy-duty rubber hydraulic hose. Braiding 449, such as steel metal braiding, is moulded into the walls of the hose rubber 448G.

[0244] In a similar manner to other embodiments, the solid cylindrical flexible core 440G of the joint 420G provides internal constraint / support against buckling of the hose 448G when under axial loading or bending.

[0245] The rubber hose 448G and the solid flexile core 440G are held between an upper collar 456G and a lower collar 458G, which are each crimped onto respective ends of the hose 448G. The upper collar 456G is attached to an upper flange 450h which is attached to the guide part 6 of the machine 2 (possibly via bolts and / or an adapter or connecting part). The lower collar 458G is attached to a lower flange 460G which is attached to the base unit 4 of the machine (possibly via bolts and / or an adapter or connecting part).

[0246] As in earlier embodiments and versions, the joint 420G can be bent fore-aft and from side to side as the guide part 6 of the machine 2 is manipulated by the user. The joint 420G can transfer torque from applied to the guide part 6 via the user handle 16, via the joint 420G, to the base unit 4, so as to effect steering of the machine 2.

[0247] Figures 12a to 14 illustrates an alternative joint 520 in accordance with the present invention. The joint 520 comprises a cylindrical flexible section 524 comprising a hose 548, wound around a core, provided by an internal, solid cylindrical rod / shaft 540, formed of a flexible material such as a rubber-like material.

[0248] The cylindrical flexible section 524 of the joint 520 comprises an additional layer, comprising a translucent silicone sleeve / cover 549, provided outside the hose 548. This additional layer provides ingress protection for the joint 520. An air gap 551 is present between the hose 548 and the silicone cover. Although not visible in the figures, an air gap is also present between the hose 548 and the core 540.

[0249] Instead of the upper and lower mount plates of earlier embodiments, the joint 520 of figure 11 a includes an upper mounting collar 556 (shown in isolation in figure 12b), and a lower mounting collar 558 (shown in isolation in figure 12c).

[0250] The upper mounting collar 556 is assembled onto the top end of the cylindrical flexible section 524 such that an upper region of the cylindrical flexible section 524 is received into a recess 557 of the upper mounting collar 556. The lower mounting collar 558 is assembled onto the bottom end of the cylindrical flexible section 524, such that a lower region of the cylindrical flexible section 524 is received in a recess 559 of the lower mounting collar 558.

[0251] The upper mounting collar 556 and the lower mounting collar 558 are crimped onto the cylindrical flexible section 524. Upon crimping of the collars 556, 558 onto the cylindrical flexible section 524, annular ribs 563, which protrude inwardly from the inner surface of the collars 556, 558 defining the recesses 557, 559, are caused to embed into the cylindrical flexible section 524 upon crimping (as shown in figure 12d), thereby to secure the collars 556, 558 in place on the cylindrical flexible section 524.

[0252] The upper mounting collar 556 comprises an end connector, comprising blocks 574 which extend upwardly, away from the recess 557. The blocks 574 are provided with through holes 575, such as M6 tapped holes, for receiving bolts, for attaching the upper mounting collar 556 to the guide part 6 of the machine.

[0253] A bottom end 580 of the lower mounting collar 558 comprises a plurality of through holes 581 , for example M6 tapped holes. The lower mounting collar 558 is attached to the base unit 4 of a machine 2, via a base adapter 590 (figures 13a and 13b). Bolts 582 are received into the through holes 581 of the lower mounting collar 558 and corresponding through holes (not visible) provided in the base adapter 590, thereby to secure the lower mounting collar 558 to the base adapter 590. The base adapter 590 is then secured, via bolts 592 received in further through holes 591 provided in the base adapter 590, to the base unit 6, as shown in figure 14.

[0254] Figures 15a to 15d illustrate a further alternative joint 620 in accordance with the present invention. The joint 620 comprises a cylindrical flexible section 626, an upper mounting collar 656, a lower mounting collar 658, and a silicone sleeve / cover 649.

[0255] Figures 16a to 16d illustrate an embodiment of a lower mounting collar 756 in accordance with the present invention. The lower mounting collar 756 comprises a recess 757, for receiving an end of the flexible cylindrical section of the joint. Annular ribs 763, provided on an internal surface of the collar 756 defining the recess 757, can be crimped onto the flexible cylindrical section, thereby to maintain the collar 756 in place on the joint.

[0256] Bolt apertures 759 are provided, to enable attachment of the collar, and thereby the joint, to a further component, such a base unit 4 of a machine 2, or to an adapter / further connecting part.

[0257] Figures 17a to 17e illustrate a further alternative joint 820 in accordance with the present invention. The joint 820 comprises a cylindrical flexible section 824 comprising a solid internal shaft 826, an upper mounting collar 856, a lower mounting collar 858, and a sleeve / cover 849. Figure 17d shows the sleeve / cover the 849 shaped around a protrusion 871 around a distal end of the upper mounting collar 856.

[0258] Figures 18a to 18f illustrate the upper mounting collar 856 of the joint 820 of figures 17a to 17e in isolation, and detailed features thereof. The upper mounting collar 856 comprises an end connector comprising blocks 874 which extend upwardly, away from recess 857 into which an end of cylindrical flexible section 824 is received. The blocks 874 are provided with through holes 875 for receiving bolts, for attaching the upper mounting collar 556 to the guide part 6 of a machine, or to adapter or connecting component.

[0259] Figures 19a to 19f illustrate the lower mounting collar 858 of the joint 820 of figures 17a to 17e in isolation, and detailed features thereof. The lower mounting collar 858 comprises a recess into which an end of the cylindrical flexible section 824 is received. Through holes 881 are provided for receiving bolts, for connecting the lower mounting collar 558 to the base unit 4 of a machine, or to adapter or connecting component.

[0260] Figures 20a to 20f illustrate an alternative embodiment of upper mounting collar 856’ in accordance with the present invention, and detailed features thereof. Features of the upper mounting collar 856’ are as described above in respect of the upper mounting collar 856 of figures 18a to 18f, identified by like numbering.

[0261] Figures 21a to 21 f illustrate an alternative embodiment of lower mounting collar 858’ in accordance with the present invention, and detailed features thereof. Features of the lower mounting collar 858’ are as described above in respect of the lower mounting collar 858 of figures 18a to 18f, identified by like numbering.

[0262] Figures 22a to 22f illustrate an alternative embodiment of upper mounting collar 856” in accordance with the present invention, and detailed features thereof. Features of the upper mounting collar 856” are as described above in respect of the upper mounting collar 856 of figures 18a to 18f, identified by like numbering.

[0263] Figures 23a to 23f illustrate an alternative embodiment of lower mounting collar 858” in accordance with the present invention, and detailed features thereof. Features of the lower mounting collar 858’ are as described above in respect of the lower mounting collar 858 of figures 18a to 18f, identified by like numbering.

[0264] Figures 24a to 24c illustrate an alternative embodiment of a collar 957 in accordance with the present invention. The collar 957 could form an upper mounting collar and / or a lower mounting collar to be used as described above in respect of other embodiments.

[0265] In an end flange 952 of the collar 957, through holes 981 are provided for receiving bolts, for connecting the collar 957 to another component. For example, when the collar 957 forms a lower mounting collar, connection to a base unit 4 of a machine (possibly via an adapter or connecting component), is enabled. Similarly, when the collar 957 forms an upper mounting collar, connection to a guide part 6 of a machine (possibly via an adapter or connecting component), is enabled. A cylindrical section 953 extending from the end flange 952 comprises a hollow interior which forms a recess 959. On assembly of a joint incorporating one a collar 957 according to the present embodiment, the collar 957 is located around a bottom end, or a top end of the solid cylindrical flexible section of the joint, such that an end region of the solid cylindrical flexible section is received in the recess 959. A hose, such as a corrugated hose as described above in respect of other embodiments, is then arranged around the outside of the cylindrical section 953 of the collar 957. A crimp ferrule is then placed around the outside diameter of the hydraulic hose and crimped in position.

[0266] Accordingly, when the joint is fully assembled, the cylindrical section 953 of the collar 957 is disposed between the hose and the solid cylindrical flexible section of the joint.

[0267] A pattern, comprising a plurality of ridges 955 and grooves 956, is machined onto an external surface of the hollow cylindrical section 953 of the collar 957. The ridges 955, which may be tapered or non-tapered moving axially away from the end flange 952, each extend annularly around the exterior of the hollow cylindrical section 953 of the collar 957. The grooves 956 each extend axially away from end flange 952, (i.e. vertically in the orientation of figures 24a to 24c). The grooves 956 interrupt the annular ridges 955, acting to split each ridge 955 into a plurality of into annular segments.

[0268] During use of a machine, the arrangement of ridges 955 and grooves 956 on the exterior of the cylindrical section 953 of the collar 957 assists in preventing slipping of the hose relative to the rest of the joint as the joint is flexed and torque is transmitted between the guide part and the base unit.

[0269] Figures 25 to 33b illustrate a locking mechanism, such as that described above in respect of figures 6b and 6c, in greater detail. The locking mechanism acts to lock the handle / guide part 6 in an upright / vertical position, wherein it is locked with respect to the base unit 4.

[0270] A lock actuating mechanism is provided, comprising a lever arm 900, a user handle comprising a knob 901 at a distal end of the lever arm 900, and a lever arm channel 902 in which the lever arm 900 is movable. The lever arm 900 projects outwardly from an upper portion of the guide part 6, and moveable within a channel 902. The lever arm 900 is mechanically connected, via a rod 920, to a top of the locking collar 1030 of the locking mechanism, such that movement of the lever arm 900 causes movement of the locking collar 1030.

[0271] The channel 902 comprises a first, vertical section which extends downwardly along a first face 912 of a box section 910 of the guide part 6, and a second, horizontal section, extending across a second face 914 of the box section 910, orthogonal to the first face 912.

[0272] Whilst the lever arm 900 is in an uppermost position, i.e. at the top of the channel 902 (as shown for example in figure 27a), the locking collar 1030 of the locking mechanism is maintained in a raised position. When the locking collar 1030 is in the raised position, the joint 20 is exposed, and free to bend / flex. The guide part 6 is therefore unlocked, and can be tilted away from an upright / vertical configuration.

[0273] The lever arm 900 is biased, for example by a spring, towards its uppermost position, at the top of the channel 902. The locking collar 1030 is also therefore biased towards a raised position, wherein the joint 20 and the guide part 6 unlocked.

[0274] When it is required to lock the guide part 6, a user applies a force to the knob 901 at the distal end of the lever arm 900, to urge the lever arm 900 against the biasing, downwardly along the first section of the channel 902. Downwards movement of the lever arm 900 causes, via the rod 920, the locking collar 1030 to move from the raised position, axially downwardly, to a lowered position.

[0275] When the lever arm 900 reaches the lower end of the first section of the channel 902 (as shown in figure 27b), it can be rotated into the second part of the channel 902. As the lever arm 900 moves from the first section to the second section of the channel 902 it passes a bump feature 903. The second, horizontal section of the channel 902, and the bump feature 903, prevents the lever arm 900 from moving back into the first section of the channel 902 (as shown in figure 27c).

[0276] The collar 1030 is thereby maintained in the lowered position. When the collar 1030 is in the lowered position, the joint 1020 is covered by the collar 1030, and the joint is thereby prevented from bending / flexing. The guide part 6 is thereby locked and cannot be tilted away from the upright I vertical configuration, i.e. it cannot be moved with respect to the base unit 4.

[0277] The guide part 6 may be locked when it is required to park the machine 2, or to transport the machine 2, between uses.

[0278] To unlock the guide part 6, the user applies force to the knob 901 to urges the lever arm 900 backwardly along the second part of the channel 902, round the corner toward the first part of the channel 902. The biasing of the channel then returns the lever arm 900 to its uppermost position, at the top of the first section of the channel 902 in the first face 912 of the box section 910. The upwards movement of the lever arm 900 causes an upwards movement of the locking collar 2030; when lever arm 900 is in its uppermost position, the collar 1030 is in its raised position; the joint 1020 is thereby uncovered again and free the bend I flex; the guide part 6 is therefore free to tilt away from the upright / vertical configuration.

[0279] Figures 27a to 27c show sequential steps of actuation of a locking mechanism in accordance with the present invention.

[0280] As shown in figures 28a to 28c, when the locking collar 1030 is in the lowered, i.e. locked position, a lower edge 1032 of the locking collar 1030 locates within a groove 1034 provided in the lower mounting collar 1058 which is fixed to the base unit 4. The location of the collar 1030 within the groove 1034 prevents movement of the guide part 6 in all directions.

[0281] Figure 29a is an exploded isometric view showing the components of the joint 1020 of the machine 2 of figure 35. The joint 1020 comprises a solid flexible cylindrical section 1024 surrounded by an external sheath 1128 comprising a corrugated plastic hose / tube, an upper mounting collar 1056a, 1056b allowing attaching to the guide part 6, and a lower mounting collar 1058a, 1058b allowing attachment to the base unit 4.

[0282] Ribs 1063 are provided in a recess 1059 of the lower mounting collar 1058a, 1058b, and in the recess 1057 of the upper mounting collar 1056a, 1056b. The ribs 1063 provide a clamping surface, and locate in-between grooves 1029 on the exterior of the external sheath 1128; this helps prevent the sheath 1128 and the solid flexible cylindrical section 1024 being pulled out of the lower mounting collar 1058 and the upper mounting collar 1056 when the guide part 6 is tilted.

[0283] A plurality of holes 1008 are positioned through the upper mounting collar 1056, the lower mounting collar 1058, the sheath 1128, and the solid flexible cylindrical section 1024. Bolts 1010 are located within the holes 1008 and fixed in place by nuts 1011. The bolts 1010 aid transmission of torque between the upper and lower mounting collars 1056, 1058, and the joint 1020. The ribs 1063 clamping the external sheath 1128 offer a secondary function to also enable transmission of torque, via the friction of the ribs 1063 compressing the external grooves 1029 of the external sheath 1028.

[0284] Figure 30 is an isometric view of the joint 1020 of figure 28a when assembled.

[0285] Figure 31 is an isometric partial view of a machine 2 comprising the joint 1020 of figure 28a.

[0286] Figure 32a shows a machine 2 comprising the joint 1020 of figure 29a, in a handle- locked position, i.e. with the locking collar 1030 in a lowered position. Figure 32b shows a machine 2 comprising the joint 1020 of figure 29a, in a handle-unlocked position, i.e. with the locking collar in a raised position.

[0287] The locking mechanism described above comprises a collar and a location means, however other joint / handle portion locking mechanisms may be provided.

[0288] Figures 34a and 34b illustrate a generic locking mechanism 2030, in a locked and unlocked position respectively. Figures 35a to 43d illustrate specific alternative locking mechanisms, as described below. A locking mechanism including a combination of the features of these embodiments may also be provided.

[0289] The alternative locking mechanisms of figures 34a to 43d act in the same manner as the collar and locating means described above. Specifically, when the respective locking mechanism is in an unlocked position, the joint 20 is unconstrained and is free to flex, for example as shown in figures 4a and 4b. Tilting of the handle portion / guide part 6 with respect to the base unit 4 is thereby enabled. When the respective locking mechanism is in a locked position, the joint 20 is prevented from flexing, and the handle portion I guide part 6 is thereby also locked, i.e. prevented from tilting with respect to the base unit 6, and is maintained in an upright position / substantially vertical orientation.

[0290] Furthermore, in common with the collar and locating means described above, the alternative locking mechanisms of figures 34a to 43d may be used as an alternative to, or in addition to, configuring the joint 20 to return the handle / guide part 6 to a vertical / upright position under bias.

[0291] Figure 35a to 36c illustrate an alternative locking mechanism comprising one or more pins 2031 , 2032 which are configured for engagement into complimentary slots 2033, 2034.

[0292] The pins 2031 , 2032 are arranged for movement within a housing of the handle portion 6, either side of the joint 20. The slots 2033, 2034 / 2036 are provided in a top surface of the base unit 4.

[0293] In figure 35a, the pins 2031 , 2032 are in a raised position, and are contained (partially or fully) within a housing of the handle portion 6. The joint 20 is unlocked, i.e. it is unconstrained, and the handle portion 6 is free to flex, and thereby to tilt with respect to the base unit 4.

[0294] Figure 35b shows the pins 2031 , 2032 descending, i.e. moving downwardly with respect to the handle portion 6 toward the base unit 4, as the locking mechanism moves from the unlocked position of figure 35a to the locked position of figure 35c.

[0295] Figure 36c shows the pins 2031 , 2032 each engaged within a respective slot 2033, 2034, thereby locking the joint 20, and preventing tilting of the handle portion 6 with respect to the base portion 4.

[0296] One or more slots and pins may be provided, at different locations around the joint 20. Figure 36a illustrates an embodiment having two slots 2036 each arranged to receive a respective pin. The slots 2036 are located in close proximity to a base 2035 of the joint 20. Figures 36b and 36c each illustrate embodiments having one slot 2036 arranged to receive a pin. A further alternative locking mechanism, as illustrated in figures 37a and to 38c, comprises an elongate portion 2037 located adjacent to the joint 20. The elongate portion 2037 in this embodiment comprises a cylinder portion. The elongate portion 2037 is movable from a locked position (as shown in figures 37a and 38a) in which the joint 20 is free to flex, to an unlocked position (as shown in figures 37b and 38c) in which the joint 20 is locked and prevented from flexing.

[0297] The elongate portion 2037 is fixedly attached to, and extends away from, the handle portion 6. An end 2038 of the elongate portion 2037, remote from the handle portion 6, is provided with a shaped end surface. In the locked position, the end 2038 of the elongate portion 207 is located within a groove 2039 provided within a boss portion 2040 provided on an upper surface of the base unit 4. The groove 2039 has a shape which is complimentary to that of the shaped end surface of the elongate portion 2037, such that the elongate portion 2037 is held within the recess 2039 when in the locked position. Because the elongate portion is fixed with respect to the handle portion 6, the locking of the end of the elongate portion 2037 in the recess 2039 acts to lock the handle portion 6 in place, i.e. in an upright position.

[0298] To move from the locked position to the unlocked position, the elongate portion 2037 is dislodged from the recess 2039, for example by application of an upward and / or sideways force to the elongate portion 2037.

[0299] Figure 38b shows the elongate portion part way through moving from the unlocked position to the locked position (or vice versa). The end 2038 of the elongate portion

[0300] 2037 has disengaged from the recess 2039. In the fully unlocked position, the end

[0301] 2038 of the elongate portion 2037 is clear of the recess 2039. The joint 20 is free to flex, and the handle portion 6 is free to tilt with respect to the base unit 4.

[0302] Figures 39a to 39g show a further alternative locking mechanism, comprising one or more rigid arms 2041 , which are arranged around the joint 20, and which are pivotable about pivot points 2043. The pivot points 2043 can be provided at or near an upper end of the joint 20, remote from the base unit 4, as shown in figures 39c, 39e, and 39g (i.e. arranged to pivot from a locked position, upwardly to an unlocked position, and vice versa), or at a lower end of the joint 20, proximate to the base portion 4, as shown in figures 39a, 39b, 39d and 39f (i.e. arranged to pivot from a locked position, downwardly to an unlocked position, and vice versa).

[0303] In the unlocked position (as shown in figures 39a to 39c), the joint 20 is free to flex, and the handle portion 6 is thereby free to tilt with respect to the base unit 4.

[0304] Figures 39d and 39e show the arms part way through moving from an unlocked position to an locked position, or vice versa.

[0305] In a locked position (as shown in figures 39f and 39g), the arms 2041 are arranged essentially parallel to the joint 20, and at least partially surround the joint 20. An end of each arm 2041 remote from the respective pivot point 2043 engages underneath a component 2042 at the other end of the joint 20. This clamping engagement maintains the arms 2041 in a locked position. In the embodiment of figures 39a, 39b, 39d and 39f, the component 2041 could be part of, or fixedly attached to, the handle portion 6. In the embodiment of figures 39c, 39e, and 39g, the component 2041 could be part of, or fixedly attached to, the base unit 4.

[0306] Figures 39a to 39g illustrate two pivotable arms 2041 , however any number of arms could be provided.

[0307] Figures 40a to 40c show a further alternative locking mechanism comprising a pivotable arm 2045 and an actuation portion 2046.

[0308] A lower end portion of the arm 2045 is pivotably connected, via a pivot point 2047, to a component (which may be part of, or fixedly attached to, the base unit 4) at a lower end of the joint 20.

[0309] An upper end of the arm 2045 is provided with an elastically deformable engaging section, comprising a semi-circular section 2048. In a locked position, as shown in figures 40a and 40d, the semi-circular section 2048 partially surrounds a component 2049 provided at the upper end of the joint 20 (i.e. such that an inner surface of the semi-circular portion 2048 abuts an outer surface of the component 2049). The component 2049 may be part of, or fixedly attached to, the handle portion 6. To move the arm 2045 from a locked position to an unlocked position, a downwards force is applied to an actuation means 2046 which is rigidly attached to the arm 2045. The actuation means 2046 may comprise a foot pedal 2046 or any other suitable means.

[0310] Figures 40b and 40e show the arm 2045 part way between moving from a locked position to an unlocked position. Application of a downwards force to the actuation means 2046 causes the arm 2045 to pivot about the pivot point 2047, and causes the elastically deformable portion, i.e. the semi-circular section 2048, to elastically deform and move out of engagement with the component 2049.

[0311] Further application of a downwards force to the actuation means 2046 causes the arm 2045 to pivot further, and the semi-circular portion 2048 to move fully out of engagement with the component 2049. When the semi-circular portion 2048 is no longer surrounding the component 2049, the joint 20 is unlocked, i.e. free to flex, and the handle portion 6 is free to pivot with respect to the base unit 4.

[0312] Figures 41a to 41c show an alternative locking mechanism comprising a detachably connected collar segments 2054. The collar segments 2054 surround the joint 20, and allow flexing of the joint 20 when disengaged (i.e. unlocked). The collar segments 2054 are engaged, i.e. moved from an unlocked position (shown in figure 41a), to a locked position (shown in figure 41c), by an actuation means such as a handle portion 2050. The handle portion 2050 is pivotably connected to both the handle portion 6 and to one of the segments 2054 (in the illustrated embodiment, the upper segment 2054a), via pivot points 2052 and 2053 respectively. The lowermost segment 2054c is fixedly connected to a component 2055 which is part of, or fixedly connected to, the base unit 4.

[0313] The embodiment of figures 41 a to 41c comprises three collar segments 2054a, 2054b, 2054c however two, or more than three, could be provided.

[0314] Figures 42a to 42e show an alternative locking mechanism comprising one or more wires 2056 connected to both ends of the flex, joint, with the wire(s) passing through one end of the joint 20. The locking mechanism is engaged by pulling the wires 2056 stiff in-line with the joint 20, thereby to lock the joint 20. The locking mechanism is disengaged by loosening the wires 2056, thereby to unlock the joint 20.

[0315] The wires 2056 may be tightened / loosened from a lower end of the joint 20 (as shown in figures 42a and 42b), or from an upper end of the joint 20 (as shown in figures 42c and 42d).

[0316] Figures 42e shows a means for engaging / disengaging the wires, comprising a rotatable knob 2080, around which an end fo the wires 2056 is wrapped. Rotation of the knob 2080 in one direction acts to wind / tighten the spooled wires 256, and in the opposite direction acts to unwind / loosen the wires 2056.

[0317] Figures 43a to 43d show an alternative locking mechanism comprising a handle arrangement 2059. The handle arrangement 2059 comprises an actuation portion 2063 which is pivotable about a pivot point 2064, and a gripping portion 2061 .

[0318] The handle arrangement 2059 can be moved up and down the guide portion 6 by application of force to a strut 2060. Application of a force to the pivotable portion 2063 causes it to pivot and to engage the gripping portion 2061 , thereby to lock the joint 20 and prevent flexing thereof.

[0319] In summary, the invention relates to a hand-guided floor treatment machine comprising a base unit which carries at least one motor-driven floor-facing treatment tool, and an elongate guide part which has an upper end region provided with a handle for guiding the machine in a working direction; wherein the base unit is connected to the guide part via a joint comprising a flexible member comprising a solid flexible core, wherein flexing of the flexible member enables the guide part to be tilted relative to the base unit in a fore and aft, and a side-to-side direction; The joint comprises a solid flexible member, for example a cylindrical shaft, wherein the joint can flex to enable the guide part to be tilted relative to the base, but wherein the joint cannot twist or rotate, one end with respect to the other.

[0320] More specifically the invention relates to a hand-guided floor treatment machine comprising a base unit which carries at least one motor-driven floor-facing treatment tool, and an elongate guide part which has an upper end region provided with a handle for guiding the machine in a working direction; wherein the base unit is connected to a lower end region of the guide part via a joint, the joint comprising a flexible member, wherein flexing of the flexible member enables the guide part to be tilted relative to the base unit in a fore and aft, and a side-to-side direction; wherein the flexible member has a generally cylindrical configuration, and wherein a circumferential region of the flexible member is provided with structural reinforcement means. The structural reinforcement means may be configured and disposed to substantially resist rotational shear of the flexible member by twisting one end of the flexible member with respect to the other; and wherein the structural reinforcement means is configured and disposed to permit bending of one end of the flexible member relative to the other in any direction from the vertical, the arrangement being such that twisting of the guide part transfers the applied torque to the base unit so as to effect yaw steering thereof about a vertical axis of the base unit. The yaw steering obtained by the applied torque may be at least + / - 45 degrees.

Claims

Claims1 . A hand-guided floor treatment machine comprising a base unit which carries at least one motor-driven floor-facing treatment tool, and an elongate guide part which has an upper end region provided with a handle for guiding the machine in a working direction; wherein the base unit is connected to the guide part via a joint, the joint comprising a flexible member comprising a solid flexible core, wherein flexing of the flexible member enables the guide part to be tilted relative to the base unit in a fore and aft, and a side-to-side direction.

2. A machine as claimed in claim 1 wherein the joint further comprises an upper collar surrounding an upper end region of the solid flexible core, and a lower collar surrounding a lower end region of the solid flexible core, wherein the upper collar is attached to a lower end region of the guide part, directly or via an upper connector or adapter, and wherein the lower collar is attached to the base unit, directly or via a lower connector or adapter.

3. A machine as claimed in claim 2 wherein the upper end region of the solid flexible core is received in a recess of the upper collar, and the lower end region of the solid flexible core is received in a recess of the lower collar, and wherein the upper collar and the lower collar are fixed (e.g. crimped) onto the upper end region and the lower end region of the solid flexible core respectively.

4. A machine as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the upper collar and the lower collar each comprise a cylindrical section surrounding the recess, wherein an outer surface of the cylindrical section is provided with a pattern comprising a plurality of grooves and ridges.

5. A machine as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4 wherein the joint further comprises an upper mount plate and a base mount plate wherein the flexible member extends between the upper mount plate and the base mount plate.

6. A machine as claimed in any of claims 1 to 5 wherein the flexible member comprises at least one of:- a rubber or a rubber-like material;- a cylindrical shaft;- a spring encased in the solid flexible core.

7. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the core is surrounded by an external sheath.

8. A machine as claimed in claim 7 in the external sheath is formed of a semi-rigid material, wherein a plurality of slots provided in the external sheath provide a plurality of living hinges allowing flexing of the flexible member.

9. A machine as claimed in claim 8 wherein the slots are provided on the external sheath in a uniform pattern.

10. A machine as claimed in claim 7 wherein the external sheath comprises a plurality of interlocked segments.11 . A machine as claimed in claim 10 wherein the interlocked segments are stacked above one another between a top of the joint and a bottom of the joint, and wherein the segments each comprise a plurality of alternating teeth and recesses, wherein the teeth of one segment interlock into the recesses of an adjacent segment.

12. A machine as claimed in any of claims and 10 wherein the plurality of interlocked segments comprises an uppermost segment rigidly attached to an underside surface of the upper mount plate, and a lowermost segment rigidly attached to an upper surface of the base mount plate, and a plurality of intermediate segments located between the uppermost segment and the lowermost segment.

13. A machine as claimed in any of claims 10 to 12 wherein the segments comprise flattened ring-shaped elements, each tapering in width from an internal diameter of the segment to an external diameter of the segment.

14. A machine as claimed in any of claims 10 to 13 wherein the segments comprise a first, external set of segments each comprising a flattened ring-shaped element, and a second, inner set of segments each of which bridge a gap between adjacent externalsegments, wherein a plurality of outwardly extending protrusions provided in a ring at the top and bottom of each of the inner segments each cooperate with, and are axially slidably within, a respective one of a plurality of curved inner recesses of the external segments.

15. A machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the solid flexible core is surrounded by a hose.

16. A machine as claimed in claim 15 wherein the cylindrical section of each of the collars is each disposed between the solid flexible core and the hose.

17. A machine as claimed in claim 15 or claim 16 wherein the hose comprises one or more of:- a smooth, spiral, or corrugated external profile;- a smooth, spiral, or corrugated internal profile;- a wall which is reinforced by an embedded metal or an engineering plastic reinforcement, or by a metal braiding moulded into walls of the hose;- a rubber hydraulic hose; and- a braided hose formed by a plurality of elongate flexible strips which are interlinked or braided to form a sheath.

18. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein flexing of the flexible member enables the guide part to be tilted with respect to the guide part within a cone-shaped or hemispherical locus of movement.

19. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the joint is configured to return the guide part to a vertical orientation under bias.

20. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims, further comprising a locking mechanism movable between an unlocked position in which tilting of the guide part relative to the base unit is enabled, and a locked position in which tilting of the guide part relative to the base unit is prevented.21 . A machine as claimed in claim 20 wherein the locking mechanism is biased towards an unlocked position.

22. A machine as claimed in claim 20 or claim 21 wherein the locking mechanism comprises a locking member which comprises a rigid collar, wherein in the unlocked position, the collar is raised relative to the base unit, and which is lowerable towards the base unit thereby to move to the locked position in which the collar surrounds the joint.

23. A machine as claimed in claim 22 wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a locating means comprising a locating channel which receives a lower edge of the collar in the locked position.

24. A machine as claimed in claim 23 wherein the locating channel is provided in the lower collar.

25. A machine as claimed in any of claims 20 to 24 wherein the locking mechanism further comprises an actuation mechanism comprising a lever arm moveable within a lever arm channel and mechanically connected to the rigid collar.

26. A machine as claimed in claim 20, wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one of:- one or more pins arranged for location in one or more corresponding slots;- an elongate member arranged for location within a corresponding recess;- one or more pivotable arms;- an elastically deformable section;- one or more collar segments;- one or more wires and means for tightening or loosening the wires; and- a handle arrangement comprising an actuation portion and a gripping portion.

27. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims further comprising a flexible cover at least partly surrounding the joint.

28. A machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims configured and arranged as a floor scrubber drier.

29. A hand-guided floor treatment machine comprising a base unit which carries at least one motor-driven floor-facing treatment tool, and an elongate guide part which has an upper end region provided with a handle for guiding the machine in a working direction; wherein the base unit is connected to a lower end region of the guide part via a joint, the joint comprising a flexible member; wherein flexing of the flexible member enables the guide part to be tilted relative to the base unit in a fore and aft, and a side-to-side direction; wherein the flexible member has a generally cylindrical configuration, and wherein a circumferential region of the flexible member is provided with structural reinforcement means which is configured and disposed to substantially resist rotational twisting of one end of the flexible member with respect to the other; and wherein the structural reinforcement means is configured and disposed to permit bending of one end of the flexible member relative to the other end in any direction from the vertical; the arrangement being such that twisting of the guide part transfers the applied torque via the flexible member to the base unit so as to effect yaw steering thereof about a vertical axis.

30. A machine as claimed in claim 29 wherein the yaw steering obtained by the applied torque is at least + / - 45 degrees.31 . A machine as claimed in claim 29 or 30 wherein the flexible member comprises a solid flexible core.

32. A machine as claimed in any of claims 29 to 31 wherein the structural reinforcement means comprises one or more of fibre strands, laths, felt, or textile.

33. A machine as claimed in any of claims 29 to 33 wherein the structural reinforcement means comprises segments made of metal, metal alloy, carbon fibre, glass fibre, polyaramid, engineering plastic.

34. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the structural reinforcement means comprises oriented metal wire, metal wire braiding, metal wire lattice.

35. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the structural reinforcement means is disposed on or within the circumferential surface region of the flexible member, preferably in the outer region of a sleeve or sheath which defines the flexible member.

36. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the structural reinforcement means extends in or on a surface region of the flexible member in an axial and / or circumferential direction.

37. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the structural reinforcement means is moulded into a sub-surface region of the flexible member.

38. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the structural reinforcement comprises an external shell of rigid sheet material, such as a tube of material having a crenelated or a ribbed cross section.

39. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein opposed end regions of the flexible member are accommodated and fixed in respective machine mounting features.

40. A machine as claimed in claim 39 wherein the mounting features comprise one or more flanges, plates, cups or collars.41 . A machine as claimed in claim 40 wherein one mounting feature is fixed to a lower region of the guide part and another mounting feature is fixed to the base unit.

42. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the structural reinforcement means comprises a coiled spring disposed in or on the circumferential region of the flexible member, with a solid flexible core for supporting the coiled spring.

43. A machine as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the structural reinforcement means comprises axially disposed stacked, tessellated or interlocked cylindrical segments or sub-segments.

44. A machine as claimed in claim 43 wherein the stacked, tessellated or interlocked segments or sub-segments are thereby constrained from rotating axially with respect to one another.

45. A machine as claimed in claim 43 or 44 in which the segments or sub-segments elements are disposed within a flexible sheath or cylindrical sleeve of the flexible member, for example by moulding.

46. A machine as claimed in any of claims 29 to 45, wherein the solid flexible core comprises a resilient foam material, such as polyurethane, preferably a closed cell material.

47. A machine as claimed in claim 31 wherein the solid flexible core is any of: a sliding fit, interference fit, adhesive fit or moulded insert in a hollow centre of the flexible member.

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