CN116369800A - Surface cleaning unit with steam delivery - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a surface cleaning apparatus including vapor delivery. The device includes a hand-held body adapted to be held by a user, the hand-held body having a main housing, a supply tank, and a heater. A flexible hose is mounted to the hand-held body and a hand-held cleaning tool is mounted to the end of the hose. The tool has a liquid distributor for delivering a liquid cleaning fluid and a vapor distributor for delivering vapor. Various features for controlling the operation of the electronic components of the extraction cleaner are disclosed.

Description

Surface cleaning unit with steam delivery

Citations to related applications

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/294,890, filed December 30, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Background technique

Extractors are known surface cleaning devices for deep cleaning of carpets and other fabric surfaces such as upholstery. Most extractors include a fluid delivery system and a fluid recovery system. A fluid delivery system typically includes: one or more fluid supply tanks for storing a supply of cleaning fluid; a fluid dispenser for applying the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned; and a fluid supply conduit for delivering the cleaning fluid from The fluid supply tank delivers to the fluid dispenser. A fluid recovery system typically includes: a recovery tank; a nozzle adjacent to the surface to be cleaned and in fluid communication with the recovery tank through a conduit; and a suction source in fluid communication with the conduit to draw cleaning fluid from the surface to be cleaned and through the nozzle and conduit to the recycle bin. Other wet cleaning devices include steam cleaners, which dispense steam, and spot cleaners, which dispense liquid and scrub surfaces without recovering the liquid.

Extractors and other wet cleaners can be adapted to be held by a user and in some cases include a hose coupled to a tool carrying a fluid dispenser and nozzle.

Contents of the invention

A surface cleaning device with steam delivery is provided herein. In certain embodiments, the surface cleaning device is a portable extraction cleaner or a portable deep cleaner adapted to be hand-held by a user to a carpeted area to clean relatively small areas, such as small rugs and upholstery. Steam delivery can be provided by the hand tool of the portable extraction cleaner.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the device comprises: a hand-held body adapted to be held by a user, the hand-held body having a main housing, a supply tank, a liquid supply pump, a steam supply pump, and a heater; a flexible hose mounted to the a hand-held body; and a hand-held cleaning tool mounted to the end of the hose.

In one aspect thereof, the device has a first pressure relief device in the supply path between the supply tank and the hose to limit the pressure in the fluid path, the first pressure relief device being configured to open at a predetermined set pressure .

In another aspect thereof, the apparatus has a second pressure relief device in the supply path between the heater and the hose to limit the pressure in the fluid path, the second pressure relief device configured to operate at a predetermined negative set pressure to open.

In another aspect thereof, the apparatus has pressure control means to cut off power to the steam supply pump at a predetermined control pressure.

In yet another aspect thereof, the device has a temperature switch that controls power to the steam supply pump, wherein the temperature switch senses the temperature at the heater and powers the steam supply pump at a predetermined minimum temperature.

In yet another aspect thereof, the device has a temperature switch to cut off power to the heater at a predetermined temperature.

In another aspect, the device has a single trigger that controls liquid and vapor dispensing.

In yet another aspect, the device has a user interface on the main housing that includes: a power button that activates and deactivates at least one electronic component of the extraction cleaner; and a mode selector that selects one of a plurality of cleaning modes. One, in which the mode selector includes a dial surrounding the power button. In some aspects, the vacuum motor remains activated/on in each of these cleaning modes.

In yet another aspect, the device has a recovery system comprising a vacuum motor mounted within the main housing and a recovery bin disposed on the main housing, and the hand-held cleaning tool includes a suction nozzle to extract the Surface recovery of soiled cleaning fluid.

Embodiments of the surface cleaning device with steam disclosed herein enable a better cleaning experience. Selectively dispenses steam when and when needed for a better spot and smudge cleaning experience.

These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of the detailed description when viewed in light of the accompanying drawings and the appended claims.

Before embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the details of operation or the details of construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the drawings. The invention is capable of being embodied in various other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in alternative ways not expressly disclosed herein. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "comprising" and "including" and variations thereof are intended to cover the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof. Additionally, enumeration may be used in the description of various embodiments. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the use of enumeration should not be construed as limiting the invention to any particular order or number of parts. Neither should the use of enumeration be construed as excluding from the scope of the invention any additional steps or components that may be combined with or to the enumerated steps or components. Any reference to a claim element as "at least one of X, Y, and Z" is meant to include any of X, Y, or Z individually, and any combination of X, Y, and Z, e.g., X, Y , Z; X, Y; X, Z; and Y, Z

Description of drawings

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a portable extraction cleaner with steam distribution according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the portable extraction cleaner in Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the trigger and valve-actuator assembly taken through line III-III of Figure 1;

Figure 4 is a top view of the user interface of the portable extraction cleaner of Figure 1;

Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the electronic system for the portable extraction cleaner of Figure 1; and

Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a portable extraction cleaner with steam distribution according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

7 is a top view of a user interface of the portable extraction cleaner of FIG. 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

8 is a schematic diagram of an electronic system for the portable extraction cleaner of FIG. 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 1 showing a trigger and valve-actuator assembly according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention; and

10 is a bottom perspective view of the valve-actuator assembly of FIG. 9 with the trigger shown in phantom for clarity.

Detailed ways

The present disclosure generally relates to a surface cleaning device with steam delivery. Aspects of the disclosure described herein relate to a surface cleaning device that delivers cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned, such as an extraction cleaner that extracts cleaning fluid and debris from the surface. Aspects of the invention described herein also relate to a portable extraction cleaner (eg, a deep cleaner) adapted to be hand-held by a user to carpeted, upholstery, and other areas for cleaning relatively small areas.

Figures 1 to 2 show a surface cleaning device with steam delivery in the form of a portable extraction cleaner 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention. Extraction cleaner 10 includes a handheld body comprising: a main housing 12; a fluid delivery system 14 configured to store and deliver cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned; and a fluid recovery system 16 configured to extract the cleaning fluid from The surface to be cleaned removes fluid and debris and stores recovered fluid and debris.

The fluid delivery system 14 can be more specifically a liquid/vapour delivery system 14 configured to store a cleaning fluid and deliver the cleaning fluid as a liquid, vapor, or both to the surface to be cleaned. As discussed in further detail below, the portable extraction cleaner 10 is provided with various features and improvements related to steam delivery, which are described in further detail below.

For purposes of the description referring to the drawings, the terms "upper," "lower," "vertical," "horizontal," and their derivatives shall refer to the exemplary extraction cleaner 10 oriented as in FIG. 10 Rest on a surface or carry by the handle. It should be understood, however, that aspects of the present disclosure may assume various alternative orientations unless expressly stated to the contrary.

Main housing 12 is adapted to selectively mount components of fluid delivery system 14 and fluid recovery system 16 to form an easily portable unit that can be transported by a user to various locations having surfaces to be cleaned. Extraction cleaner 10 is adapted to be hand held by a user to a carpeted area for cleaning relatively small areas and extracts cleaning fluid and debris from surfaces. Additionally, non-limiting examples of areas that can be cleaned include area cushions, upholstery, vehicle interiors, tents, and mattresses.

The fluid delivery system 14 can include a supply tank 18 for storing a supply of cleaning fluid; a liquid dispenser 20 disposed on the hand-held cleaning tool 22 ; and a steam dispenser 24 disposed on the hand-held cleaning tool 22 . A heater 26 is disposed in the flow path between the supply tank 18 and the steam distributor 24 to heat the cleaning fluid to generate steam.

The cleaning fluid stored by supply tank 18 can include one or more of any suitable cleaning liquid, including but not limited to water, compositions, concentrated cleaners, diluted cleaners, etc., and mixtures thereof. For example, the fluid can include a mixture of water and concentrated detergent. The cleaning fluid can be stored in liquid form.

Supply box 18 can be refillable and can be formed from a transparent or colored translucent material, which allows a user to view its contents. The supply box 18 is detachably mounted on the main housing 12 .

Heater 26 preferably heats the cleaning fluid to about 100°C, where "about" includes ±10°C. This temperature may be the temperature at the steam distributor 24 . Since some heat loss between the outlet of the heater 26 and the steam distributor 24 is possible, the set point of the heater 26 can be higher. A non-limiting example of a set point for heater 26 is about 165°C to about 180°C. Some non-limiting examples of suitable heaters 26 include, but are not limited to, flash heaters, boilers, immersion heaters, and flow-through steam generators.

Heater 26 may generate steam. As used herein, the term "steam" includes a liquid, such as but not limited to water or a solution comprising water (like water mixed with cleaning chemicals, fragrances, etc.), at least partially converted into a gaseous or vapor phase. A liquid can be boiled or otherwise transformed into a vapor or vapor phase by heat or mechanical action like atomization. In other embodiments, heater 26 produces heated cleaning fluid in a mixture of vapor and liquid phases. It should also be understood that regardless of the phase of the cleaning fluid output by the heater 26, the phase composition of the cleaning fluid may change between the heater 26 and the steam distributor 24, with heat loss and/or condensation causing the A portion of the fluid returns to the liquid phase. Likewise, the temperature of the cleaning fluid output by steam distributor 24 may be less than the temperature of the cleaning fluid output by heater 26 . For example, the heater 26 may have a set point in the range of about 165 to about 180° C., however, the fluid dispensed by the steam distributor 24 (at about 6°C between the outlet of the heater 26 and the steam distributor 24 feet of pipe travel) may include a mixture of vapor and liquid droplets having a temperature of less than about 100°C. For example, the mixture of steam and liquid droplets dispensed by steam distributor 24 can have a temperature of from about 90°C to about 100°C, about 90°C to about 99°C, about 90°C to about 98°C, about 90°C to about 97°C , about 90°C to about 96°C, about 90°C to about 95°C, about 90°C to about 94°C, about 94°C to about 100°C, about 94°C to about 99°C, about 94°C to about 98°C, about 94°C to about 97°C, about 94°C to about 96°C, about 94°C to about 95°C, about 95°C to about 100°C, about 95°C to about 99°C, about 95°C to about 98°C, about 95°C to about 97°C, about 95°C to about 96°C, about 96°C to about 100°C, about 96°C to about 99°C, about 96°C to about 98°C, about 96°C to about 97°C, about 97°C to about 100°C, about 97°C to about 99°C, about 97°C to about 98°C, about 98°C to about 100°C, about 98°C to about 99°C, or about 99°C to about 100°C. Without being bound by any theory, the temperature difference between the fluid exiting the heater 26 and the fluid dispensed from the steam distributor 24 may be at least partially attributable to Heat loss from the surrounding environment.

The fluid recovery system 16 can include: an extraction path disposed on the cleaning tool 22 in the form of an extraction nozzle 28 suitable for use on the surface to be cleaned; a recovery tank 30; and a flexible hose assembly 32 defined with the extraction nozzle 28 and A portion of a vacuum or suction conduit 33 is in fluid communication with recovery tank 30 . The recovery tank 30 can contain an air/liquid separator (not shown) containing a stack for directing air and liquid through the recovery tank and a float for selectively closing the extraction path through the recovery tank . Examples of suitable air/liquid separators are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,073,226, issued July 11, 2006, and U.S. Patent No. 9,615,703, issued April 11, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference . Other air/liquid separators are possible. The recycling bin 30 can be formed from a transparent or colored translucent material, which allows the user to view its contents. The recovery box 30 can be removably mounted on the main housing 12 .

Fluid recovery system 16 also includes a suction source 34, such as in the form of a motor/fan assembly including a vacuum motor 36, in fluid communication with extraction nozzle 28 for generating a working airflow to draw liquid and entrained fluid through the extraction path. crumbs. The suction source 34 can be disposed fluidly downstream of the recovery tank 30, although other suction paths are possible.

Different arrangements for the housing 12 and tanks 18, 30 are possible. In one arrangement, the main housing 12 can include a carrying handle 42 to form with the supply bin 18 and the return bin 30 an easily portable unit that can be transported by a user to different locations having surfaces to be cleaned. The main housing 12 can also include a base 38 on which the supply and recovery bins 18 , 30 are at least partially supported; and a divider 40 extending upwardly from the base 38 between the supply tank 18 and the recovery bin 30 . Partition 40 can include a housing housing one or more components of extraction cleaner 10 , such as heater 26 and suction source 34 .

Base 38 can comprise a housing with a flat bottom adapted to rest directly on a surface, such as a horizontal or floor surface. Conveniently, a handle 42 can be provided opposite the flat bottom so that the extraction cleaner 10 can be easily picked up by a user.

In FIG. 1 , hand tool 22 and hose 32 are shown in a use or operating position. The hand-held tool 22 and hose 32 may be stored on the main housing 12 , for example, by wrapping the hose 32 around a base 38 and clipping or otherwise attaching the tool 22 to the housing 12 .

A brush 44 can be provided on the tool 22 for scrubbing the surface to be cleaned. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the brush 44 can include a plurality of bristles. The bristles can be bundled together in tufts to provide the desired stiffness and durability for stirring. Other mixers for tool 22 are possible.

A user is able to provide input through the user interface 46 to control the extraction cleaner 10, including its systems or components. As described in further detail below, user interface 46 accepts input to control power from the power supply of extraction cleaner 10 to one or more electronic components of extraction cleaner 10 . The power source for the extraction cleaner 10 can include, for example, a power cord 48 or batteries on the extraction cleaner 10 . User interface 46 is shown herein disposed adjacent to handle 42 . Other configurations of user interface 46 are possible.

Various other components and combinations of components can be incorporated into the fluid delivery system 14, such as pumps, valves, and/or fluid control features and suitable conduits or tubing that fluidly connect the components of the fluid delivery system 14 together to enable cleaning Fluid is supplied from supply tank 18 to dispensers 20 , 24 .

In one embodiment, the fluid delivery system 14 includes a flow control system for controlling the flow of fluid from the supply tank 18 to the dispensers 20 , 24 . In one configuration, the flow control system can include: a liquid supply pump 50 to pressurize the liquid distribution path 52 of the system 14 and control the delivery of cleaning fluid to the liquid distributor 20; and a vapor supply pump 54 to distribute the vapor to the system 14. Path 56 pressurizes and controls delivery of steam to steam distributor 24 . The pumps 50, 54 can be electromagnetic pumps, centrifugal pumps, or the like. Although separate pumps 50, 54 are shown supplying fluid to the distributors 20, 24, respectively, it is within the scope of the present invention to utilize a single, split or multi-stage pump to supply fluid to the distributors 20, 24.

In some embodiments, the liquid pump 50 delivers cleaning fluid at a higher flow rate than the vapor pump 54 . In one non-limiting example, the liquid pump 50 delivers the cleaning liquid at a flow rate of about 400 mL/min measured at the liquid dispenser 20 and the steam pump 54 delivers the cleaning liquid at a flow rate of about 40 mL/min measured at the steam dispenser 24 steam. In other embodiments, the pumps 50, 54 can have multiple speeds and/or flow rates such that the flow rate of cleaning fluid exiting the dispensers 20, 24 can be varied.

Pathways 52, 56 can include one or more tubes, pipes, hoses, etc. that fluidly couple the components of fluid delivery system 14 together. As shown in FIG. 2 , portions of the suction conduit 33 , liquid distribution path 52 , and vapor distribution path 56 can be defined by the hose assembly 32 and the tool 22 . For example, paths 52, 56 can comprise separate liquid and vapor conduits through hose assembly 32, such as inside suction conduit 33 for extraction. In another embodiment, one or both of the liquid and vapor conduits can be routed along the exterior of the suction conduit 33 . Suitable air, liquid and steam connectors (not shown) can be provided at either end of the hose assembly 32 for connection with the fluid supply and recovery components of the main housing 12 and the tool 22 .

Dispensing of cleaning fluid by tool 22 may be user controlled. For example, extraction cleaner 10 can include dispense valves 58, 60 that control the flow of cleaning fluid through the dispensers to dispensers 20, 24, respectively, and dispensers 20, 24 are configured to dispense Clean fluid. Apart from this function, the dispensing valves 58 are not particularly limited and may include any components and/or configurations suitable for use in or as a dispensing valve. The dispensing valves 58 , 60 can be arranged, for example, on the hand-held cleaning tool 22 or on the stem connecting the cleaning tool 22 to the hose 32 and can be associated with appropriate user controls for operating the valves 58 , 60 .

Distributors 20, 24 can include any structure, such as nozzles, spray tips, or manifolds, and can include one or more outlets for cleaning fluid. In one non-limiting example, liquid distributor 20 is a spray tip configured to dispense cleaning fluid when valve 58 is opened, and steam distributor 24 is a spray tip configured to dispense cleaning fluid when valve 60 is opened. Referring to FIG. 1 , the steam distributor 24 is shown located on the underside of the tool 22 adjacent the liquid distributor 20 . In this position, the steam distributor 24 is located behind the extraction nozzle 28 and brush 44 so that the steam dispensed from the distributor 24 can be viewed by the user and is not drawn into the nozzle 28 before reaching the surface to be cleaned. In another embodiment, the steam distributor 24 can be a manifold located behind the inlet of the extraction nozzle 28 and forward of the brush 44 .

Tool 22 can include at least one dispensing controller operatively connected to one of these valves 58 , 60 to effect and control the opening and closing of these valves 58 , 60 . Non-limiting examples of assigned controls include triggers, buttons, triggers, keys, switches, etc., or any combination thereof.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3 , the release of cleaning fluid can be controlled by trigger 68 . A trigger 68 is capable of operating both valves 58 , 60 , wherein depressing the trigger 68 opens both valves 58 , 60 . Release of trigger 68 closes valves 58 , 60 . The trigger 68 and valves 58 , 60 can be located on the tool 22 , or on the stem 70 connecting the tool 22 to the hose 32 .

In one embodiment, the trigger 68 operates a dual stem valve body 72 coupled to a valve head 74 for the liquid valve 58 and a valve head 76 for the steam valve 60, wherein the valve heads 74, 76 is capable of opening or closing the dispensing paths 52 , 56 to the dispensers 20 , 24 . The trigger 68 and valve body 72 are biased outwardly from the tool 22 or stem 70 by at least one and optionally more than one spring 78 to a position in which the valve heads 74, 76 block, block or Dispensing paths 52, 56 to dispensers 20, 24 are otherwise closed. In FIG. 3 , trigger 68 is not depressed and valves 58 , 60 are closed, with valve heads 74 , 76 closing off upstream portions of dispensing paths 52U, 56U from downstream portions of dispensing paths 52D, 56D. Depressing trigger 68 forces valve body 72 to move against the bias of spring 78 and forces valve heads 74 , 76 to unlock, withdraw, or otherwise open dispensing paths 52 , 56 to dispensers 20 , 24 .

The dual stem valve body 72 can include integrally formed stems 75 , 77 each supporting or coupling one of the valve heads 74 , 76 such that the entire valve body 72 is activated by depressing the trigger 68 or under one or more springs 78 Move as a whole under the bias force.

Referring to FIGS. 9-10 , in an alternative embodiment, the trigger 68 operates separate valve bodies 120 , 122 for the liquid valve 58 and the steam valve 60 , respectively. Trigger 68 can still operate both valves 58, 60, and can be operable at reduced force compared to the dual lever configuration.

The liquid valve body 120 can include a valve stem 124 which supports or is coupled to a valve head 126 and is biased by a spring 128 to a position in which the valve head 126 blocks, plugs or otherwise closes off access to the liquid. Distribution path 52 of distributor 20 (FIG. 2).

The steam valve body 122 can include a valve stem 130 that supports or is coupled to a valve head 132 and that is biased by a spring 134 to a position in which the valve head 132 blocks, plugs, or otherwise closes the passageway. Distribution path 54 to steam distributor 24 (FIG. 2).

In Fig. 9, trigger 68 is not depressed and valves 58, 60 are closed. Depressing the trigger 68 forces the valve bodies 120, 122 to move against the bias of the springs 128, 134 and forces the valve heads 126, 132 to unlock, pull out, or otherwise open the dispensing paths 52, 24 to the dispensers 20, 24. 56.

Valve heads 126 , 132 and/or trigger 68 may have anti-rotation features that prevent rotation of stems 124 , 130 that could block flow inside valves 58 , 60 . Valve heads 126, 132 may, for example, align with ribs 136 on the inner surface of trigger 68 to prevent rotation. Additionally or alternatively, the valve head bodies 120, 122 may have flats 138, 140, respectively, that are engaged by the rib 136 or another portion of the trigger 68 to prevent rotation.

Referring to FIGS. 1-2 , as described in further detail below, in some embodiments, the release of liquid and/or vapor upon depression of the trigger 68 can be mode dependent. In other words, depending on the selected cleaning mode of extraction cleaner 10 , depressing trigger 68 may or may not release liquid to liquid dispenser 20 and may or may not release steam to steam dispenser 24 . In some aspects, the vacuum motor remains activated/on in each selectable cleaning mode such that the suction remains activated when the trigger 68 is depressed and when the trigger 68 is not depressed.

In yet another embodiment, a separate vapor dispensing control (not shown) selectively operates vapor valve 60 to control vapor dispensing, while trigger 68 selectively operates liquid valve 58 to control liquid dispensing. The user can operate both controls simultaneously for simultaneous liquid and vapor dispensing.

Referring to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, an optional check valve 62 in the fluid path between the supply tank 18 and the vapor supply pump 54 provides unidirectional flow of fluid through the path 56, i.e., prevents backflow to the tank. 18 in. When present, check valve 62 is configured for one-way flow into or through vapor supply pump 54 (eg, in one direction from tank 18 to pump 54 ). Other than this function, the check valve 62 is not particularly limited and may include any component and/or configuration suitable for use as a check valve. In some aspects, check valve 62 , when present, may prevent forward flow of liquid from supply tank 18 in the event of negative pressure in fluid path 56 when heater 26 cools. This may inhibit and/or minimize creepage of liquid from supply tank 18 through path 56 when heater 26 is turned off after use. Climbing of liquid from the supply tank 18 after the heater 26 is deactivated can cause liquid to remain in the path 56 so that the next time the user starts the cleaner 10 in a steam-containing mode, the liquid remaining in the path 56 from previous use will be allocated before steam, which is not desired for the user.

A first pressure relief device 64 or positive pressure relief device in the fluid path between supply tank 18 and hose 32 controls or limits the pressure in fluid delivery system 14 . The first pressure relief device 64 opens at a predetermined set positive pressure to protect the fluid delivery system 14 from high pressures beyond its design criteria. Pressure relief device 64 diverts cleaning fluid through bypass line 66 to recovery tank 30 when the set pressure is met or exceeded. Other than this function, the pressure relief device 64 is not particularly limited and may include any components and/or configurations suitable for use in a pressure relief device for/as a pressure relief. In one embodiment, the pressure relief device 64 is a spring valve that opens at a predetermined set pressure.

During steam generation, pressure will build up in the fluid delivery system 14 unless the pressure is relieved. For example, when the trigger 68 is depressed to dispense steam from the steam dispenser 24, the pressure is released. When the trigger 68 is not depressed or the steam valve 60 is otherwise held closed for a period of time, when the heater 26 is activated, pressure will build up in the fluid delivery system 14 as the liquid heats up and produces steam. When the pressure within fluid delivery system 14 reaches the set pressure, pressure relief device 64 opens and cleaning fluid is circulated back to recovery tank 30 via bypass line 66 , allowing the pressure to vent through recovery system 16 . Pressure relief device 64 shuts off once the pressure in fluid delivery system 14 drops below a set pressure, such as if trigger 68 is depressed to release cleaning fluid or if cleaner 10 is powered down. Recovery bin 30 is fluidly coupled to the airflow generated by vacuum motor 36 such that when vacuum motor 36 is de-energized, recovery bin 30 is exhausted to atmosphere by the vacuum motor.

The set pressure may be, for example, about 10 PSI to about 30 PSI, about 10 PSI to about 20 PSI, about 10 PSI, about 11 PSI, about 12 PSI, about 13 PSI, about 14 PSI, about 15 PSI, about 16 PSI, about 17 PSI, or about 18 PSI, but it should be understood that , the set pressure may vary depending on the design constraints of the portable extraction cleaner 10 . In some embodiments, the first pressure relief device 64 may be configured to initially open upon reaching a first predetermined set pressure, and then fully open upon reaching a second predetermined set pressure greater than the first predetermined set pressure. Open. For example, the first pressure relief device 64 may be configured to initially open when the pressure reaches approximately 10 PSI, and to fully open when the pressure reaches approximately 18 PSI.

The cleaner 10 can include a second pressure relief device 65 or negative pressure relief device disposed in the steam distribution path 56 . The second pressure relief device 65 can be used alone or in combination with the first pressure relief device 64 . The second pressure relief device 65 can be configured to open to the surrounding environment at a predetermined set negative pressure. Beyond this function, the pressure relief device 65 is not particularly limited and may include any components and/or configurations suitable for use in a pressure relief device for/as a pressure relief. In one embodiment, the second pressure relief device 65 is a spring valve that opens at a predetermined set pressure.

Negative pressure may be created in steam distribution path 56 when heater 26 is cooling, such as when cleaner 10 is powered off or a user selects a mode that does not include steam. The system may attempt to equalize pressure by drawing liquid from tank 14 into vapor distribution path 56 . This may result in liquid remaining in the vapor distribution path 56 during storage or between conditions of use. This liquid remaining in the vapor dispensing path 56 may then be dispensed the next time the user depresses the trigger 68, which may be surprising and undesirable. Additionally, liquid remaining in the vapor distribution path 56 during long storage periods may be undesirable. Second pressure relief device 65 can be configured to open to atmosphere at a predetermined set negative pressure (e.g., -1 PSI) to prevent or minimize pressure drawn from tank 14 into vapor distribution path 56 during cooling of heater 26. amount of liquid. Once the pressure in the steam distribution path 56 rises above the set negative pressure, the pressure relief device 65 is closed.

FIG. 4 is a top view of one embodiment of a user interface 46 . The user interface 46 can have a power button 80 to activate and deactivate at least one electronic component of the extraction cleaner 10; and a mode selector to select a cleaning mode. The mode selector includes a dial 82 surrounding a power button 80 . The turntable 82 has a plurality of positions corresponding to different cleaning modes. In another embodiment, the user interface 46 can include a rotary dial selector that can be rotated by the user between multiple positions to select the cleaning mode and turn off the extraction cleaner. In yet another embodiment, the user interface 46 can include a separate button or switch that allows the user to select a particular cleaning mode, optionally with a separate power switch.

The extraction cleaner 10 can have a liquid/steam cleaning mode, a liquid cleaning mode, and a steam cleaning mode. Each position has an icon 84 , 86 , 88 in the form of a graphic, symbol, text, or a combination thereof, which gives the user an indication of the cleaning mode corresponding to the position of the dial 82 . For example, the location corresponding to the liquid/steam cleaning mode has an icon 84 in graphical form depicting steam and droplets, the location corresponding to the liquid cleaning mode has an icon 86 in graphical form depicting droplets, and the location corresponding to the steam cleaning mode There is an icon 88 in graphical form depicting steam.

The user interface 46 has at least one status indicator that communicates to the user the condition or status of the extraction cleaner 10, including but not limited to communicating to the user the selected cleaning mode. Non-limiting examples of status indicators include visual indicators such as lights (eg, LEDs), icon displays, text displays, graphic displays, etc., or any combination thereof. User interface 46 can also include auditory output components, such as speakers. In FIG. 4 , the status indicator is a light 90 carried by the dial 82 . In operation, a user can select a desired cleaning mode by turning the dial 82 until the indicator light 90 points to the icon 84, 86, 88 associated with the desired cleaning mode.

The cleaning mode can have associated operating parameters for heater 26, vacuum motor 36, liquid pump 50, and/or vapor pump 54 (FIG. 2). The power cord 48 supplies power to the electronics of the extraction cleaner 10 from a power source, such as a household power supply, when the power button 80 is actuated depending on the cleaning mode selected. Alternatively, extraction cleaner 10 could be cordless and powered by a portable power source, such as a battery, when power button 80 is actuated depending on the cleaning mode selected. As mentioned above, the release of cleaning fluid can be controlled by the trigger 68 in all cleaning modes. Alternatively, release of cleaning liquid can be controlled by trigger 68 and release of steam can be controlled by a separate steam controller. In some aspects, vacuum motor 36 is activated in each selectable cleaning mode and remains activated in each cleaning mode regardless of whether trigger 68 is depressed by the user.

Table 1 below lists some non-limiting examples of operating parameters for the cleaning mode, including whether heater 26, vacuum motor 36, liquid pump 50, and vapor pump 54 are on or off. Other operating parameters for the cleaning mode and other cleaning modes are possible.

Table 1

cleaning mode vacuum motor liquid pump steam pump heater liquid/steam open open open open liquid open open close close steam open close open open

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the electronic system for the portable extraction cleaner 10 of FIGS. 1-4 . Power to vacuum motor 36, liquid pump 50, and heater 26 is controlled by switches (eg, microswitches) 94, 96, 98, respectively. When extraction cleaner 10 is turned on, for example, by a user pressing power button 80 ( FIG. 4 ), vacuum motor 36 is activated. The liquid pump 50 is activated until one of the cleaning modes with liquid delivery is selected. In other words, the liquid pump 50 is activated in the liquid/steam cleaning mode and the liquid cleaning mode. Similarly, the heater 26 is activated until one of the cleaning modes with steam is selected. In other words, in both the liquid/steam cleaning mode and the steam cleaning mode, the heater 26 is on. Depending on the cleaning mode selected, dial 82 ( FIG. 4 ) rotates to selectively actuate pump switch 96 and heater switch 98 . For example, the dial 82 can be coupled to a cam (not shown) that selectively closes the microswitches 96, 98 depending on the cleaning mode selected.

Power to the steam pump 54 is controlled by a first temperature switch 100 which controls when the steam pump 54 is energized to limit any unheated water from exiting the tool 22 at the start of operation. The temperature switch 100 senses the temperature at the heater 26 and turns on the steam pump 54 at a predetermined minimum temperature. The minimum temperature can correspond to the minimum temperature at which steam is generated by heater 26 . When the minimum temperature is met or exceeded, the temperature switch 100 powers the steam pump 54 to pressurize the steam distribution path 56 and deliver steam to the tool 22 . Other than this function, the temperature switch 100 is not particularly limited and may include any components and/or configurations suitable for use in/as a temperature switch in a temperature switch. In one embodiment, the temperature switch 100 is a normally open (NO) thermostat on the heater 26 . When the minimum temperature is reached or exceeded, the thermostat closes and power is supplied to the steam pump 54 .

The minimum temperature may be, for example, 165°C, but it should be understood that the minimum temperature may vary depending on the design constraints of the portable extraction cleaner 10 and the desired characteristics of the steam being dispensed. The minimum temperature may be set based on the desired minimum operating temperature of the heater 26 that will produce steam with the desired steam quality.

The extraction cleaner 10 can include an indicator light 102 to indicate to the user when steam is ready and available for dispensing. The indicator light 102 can be energized by the first temperature switch 100 . Indicator light 102 can include at least one light source behind a transparent or translucent cover, and can be located on main housing 12 , such as on divider 40 and/or on user interface 46 , or on tool 22 . Light can include any element or component capable of emitting light, and can include, for example, a light emitting diode (LED) as shown herein. Other lamps include incandescent lamps such as halogen lamps, arc lamps, and gas discharge lamps such as fluorescent lamps.

The second temperature switch 104 cuts power to the heater 26 at a predetermined maximum temperature to control or limit the temperature of the heater 26 . The temperature switch 104 senses the temperature at the heater 26 and cuts off power to the heater 26 at a predetermined maximum temperature. The maximum temperature can be a temperature at which the heater 126 can operate within the design limits of the surrounding components of the extraction cleaner 10, and can also be above a threshold at which the heater 26 does not need to operate to produce the desired steam output for effective cleaning. When the maximum temperature is reached or exceeded, the temperature switch 104 cuts power to the heater 26 to allow the heater 26 to cool. Once the temperature of the heater 26 drops below the maximum temperature, the temperature switch 104 provides power to the heater 26 and the heater 26 is energized. Aside from this function, the temperature switch 104 is not particularly limited and may include any components and/or configurations suitable for use in/as a temperature switch in a temperature switch. In one embodiment, the temperature switch 104 is a normally closed (NC) thermostat on the heater 26 . When the maximum temperature is reached or exceeded, the thermostat opens and cuts off power to the heater 26 . When the temperature of the heater 26 drops below the maximum temperature, the thermostat is closed and the heater 26 is energized.

The predetermined maximum temperature may be, for example, 180°C, but it will be appreciated that the maximum temperature may vary depending on the design constraints of the portable extraction cleaner 10 and the desired characteristics of the steam being dispensed.

Figure 6 shows a portable extraction cleaner 10 according to a second embodiment of the invention, wherein like elements are denoted by the same reference numerals as used for the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the pressure control device 92 cuts power to the vapor pump 54 to control or limit the pressure in the fluid delivery system 14 . The pressure control device 92 cuts off power to the steam pump 54 at a predetermined control pressure to prevent excess cleaning fluid from being wasted through the first pressure relief device 64 . When the control pressure is reached or exceeded, pressure control device 92 cuts power to steam pump 54 to prevent cleaning fluid from flowing through steam distribution path 56 . Once the pressure drops below the control pressure, the pressure control device 92 powers the steam pump 54 and the steam pump 54 is energized. Other than this function, the pressure control device 92 is not particularly limited and may include any components and/or configurations suitable for use as a control device for a pump. In one embodiment, the pressure control device 92 is an electrical switch, such as a normally closed (NC) pressure switch.

The control pressure is preferably lower than the set pressure at which the pressure relief device 64 opens so that the pressure can be relieved first by turning off the steam pump 54 and not circulating fresh cleaning fluid into the recovery tank 30 . Pressure relief device 64 acts as a backup if the pressure continues to rise or if pressure control device 92 fails. For example, the control pressure may be 4 PSI, but it should be understood that the control pressure may vary depending on the design constraints of the portable extraction cleaner 10 .

FIG. 7 is a top view of another embodiment of a user interface 106 for the extraction cleaner 10 of FIG. 1 . The user interface 106 includes a rotary dial selector 108 that can be rotated by the user between a plurality of positions to select a cleaning mode and to turn off the extraction cleaner. Each position has icons 110 , 112 , 114 , 116 in the form of graphics, symbols, text, or a combination thereof, which give the user an indication of the cleaning mode corresponding to the position of the carousel selector 108 . For example, a location corresponding to an off extraction cleaner has an icon 110 in the form of the word "OFF", a location corresponding to a liquid/steam cleaning mode has an icon 112 in graphic form depicting droplets and steam, a location corresponding to a liquid cleaning mode has An icon 114 in graphical form depicting droplets and a location corresponding to the steam cleaning mode has an icon 116 in graphical form depicting steam. In FIG. 7 , the dial selector 108 is in the "OFF" position and points to the icon 110 . To turn on the extraction cleaner 10 and select the desired cleaning mode, the user can turn the dial selector 108 until it points to the icon 112, 114, 116 associated with the desired cleaning mode.

FIG. 8 is another embodiment of an electrical system schematic for the portable extraction cleaner 10 of FIG. 1 . A single multi-position rotary switch 118 is capable of providing different actuation states to multiple circuits S1 , S2 , S3 for controlling the operation of heater 26 , vacuum motor 36 , liquid pump 50 , and vapor pump 54 . The rotary switch 118 can comprise, for example, a 4-position rotary switch 118 controlled by the dial selector 108 (FIG. 7). Switches S1, S2, S3 are connected to connectors A, B providing input signals indicative of the activation status of the circuits S1, S2, S3 so as to provide four modes of operation with the three circuits S1, S2, S3. The liquid pump 50 is activated by circuit S1, the heater 26 and vapor pump 54 are activated by circuit S2, and the vacuum motor 36 is activated by circuit S3.

Table 2 provides a list of the mode selection possibilities of the 4-position rotary switch 118 with circuits S1 , S2 , S3 in different activation states.

Table 2

switch position S1 S2 S3 close 0 0 0 liquid/steam 1 1 1 liquid 1 0 1 steam 0 1 1

When extraction cleaner 10 is turned on, vacuum motor 36 is activated by circuit S3, for example by the user rotating dial selector 108 (FIG. 7) until it points to icon 112, 114, 116 for the desired cleaning mode. The liquid pump 50 is activated until one of the cleaning modes with liquid delivery is selected. In other words, circuit S1 activates liquid pump 50 in liquid/steam cleaning mode and liquid cleaning mode. The heater 26 is activated until one of the steam cleaning modes is selected. In other words, circuit S2 turns on the heater 26 in both the liquid/steam cleaning mode and the steam cleaning mode. Except for the second circuit S2, the power to the steam pump 54 is controlled by the first temperature switch 100 as described for the embodiment of FIG. 5 . Other components such as the indicator light 102 and the second temperature switch 104 also operate as described for the embodiment of FIG. 5 .

While shown on a portable device adapted to be held by a user for cleaning a relatively small area, in other embodiments, the functional system of the surface cleaning device with steam delivery can be arranged in other configurations, such as with a base and a For upright equipment that guides the base across the surface to be cleaned, canister equipment or commercial equipment with a cleaning implement connected to a wheeled base by a vacuum hose. Any of the aforementioned cleaners can be adapted to incorporate a flexible vacuum hose which can form part of the working air duct between the nozzle and the suction source.

Although the device is shown as an extraction cleaner, in other embodiments the surface cleaning device with steam delivery can be an applicable surface cleaning device with steam delivery capability but no extraction capability.

The different features and structures of the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in combination with each other as desired within an undescribed range. Thus, various features of different implementations can be mixed and matched as desired to form new implementations, whether or not a new implementation is explicitly described.

The foregoing description relates to general and specific embodiments of the disclosure. However, various substitutions and changes can be made without departing from the spirit and broader aspects of the disclosure as defined in the appended claims, subject to the principles of patent law (including, etc. The principle of effector) is explained. As such, the present disclosure is presented for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as an exhaustive description of all embodiments of the disclosure or to limit the scope of the claims to the specific elements shown or described in connection with those embodiments. Any reference to an element in the singular, eg, using the articles "a," "an," "the," or "said," should not be construed as limiting the element to the singular.

Likewise, it is also to be understood that the appended claims are not limited to the expressions and specific combinations, compositions or methods described in the detailed description, which may vary between particular embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims . With respect to any Markush group used herein to describe particular features or aspects of various embodiments, a distinct, specific and/or or unexpected results. Each element of the Markush set may be relied upon individually and/or in combination and provide sufficient support for specific embodiments within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (20)

1. A surface cleaning apparatus comprising:

a handheld body adapted to be held by a user, the handheld body comprising:

a main housing;

a supply tank disposed on the main casing;

a liquid supply pump;

a steam supply pump; and

a heater;

a flexible hose mounted to the hand-held body and comprising a first conduit in fluid communication with the liquid supply pump and a second conduit in fluid communication with the vapor supply pump;

a hand-held cleaning tool mounted to an end of the hose and comprising a liquid dispenser delivering a liquid cleaning fluid and a vapor dispenser delivering vapor; and

A first pressure relief device is located in the supply path between the supply tank and the hose to limit the pressure in the supply path, the first pressure relief device being configured to open at a predetermined set pressure.

2. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 including a vacuum motor mounted within the main housing and a recovery tank disposed on the main housing, wherein:

the flexible hose includes a third conduit in fluid communication with the recovery tank; and

the hand-held cleaning tool includes an extraction nozzle to recover soiled cleaning fluid from a surface to be cleaned.

3. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 2 including a bypass line diverting cleaning fluid from the supply path to the recovery tank, wherein the first pressure relief device normally closes the bypass line, and wherein the first pressure relief device opens the bypass line at the predetermined set pressure.

4. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first pressure relief device is fluidly downstream of the steam supply pump and fluidly upstream of the heater.

5. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 including a check valve in a supply path between the supply tank and the steam supply pump to provide one-way flow of cleaning fluid from the supply tank to the steam supply pump.

6. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 including a pressure control device to shut off power to the steam supply pump at a predetermined control pressure.

7. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 6 wherein the pressure control device detects a pressure fluidly downstream of the steam supply pump and fluidly upstream of at least one of:

the heater; and

the first pressure relief device.

8. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 6 wherein the predetermined control pressure is less than the predetermined set pressure.

9. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 6 wherein the pressure control device is a normally closed pressure switch.

10. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 including a temperature switch controlling power to the steam supply pump, wherein the temperature switch senses the temperature at the heater and supplies power to the steam supply pump at a predetermined minimum temperature.

11. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 including a temperature switch to cut off power to the heater at a predetermined temperature.

12. The surface cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11 comprising:

A liquid distribution valve controlling the flow of cleaning liquid to the liquid distributor;

a steam distribution valve controlling a flow of steam to the steam distributor; and

and a trigger controlling the liquid dispensing valve and the vapor dispensing valve, wherein depressing the trigger opens both the liquid dispensing valve and the vapor dispensing valve.

13. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 12 including a wand connecting the hand-held cleaning tool to the hose, wherein the trigger and the valve are located on the wand.

14. The surface cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11 comprising a user interface on the main housing, the user interface comprising:

a power button to activate and deactivate at least one electronic component of the surface cleaning apparatus; and

and a mode selector selecting one of the plurality of cleaning modes.

15. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 14 comprising:

a power supply;

a vacuum motor switch controlling power supply from the power source to a vacuum motor, wherein selection of the power button closes the vacuum motor switch to supply power to the vacuum motor;

A pump switch controlling the supply of power from the power source to the liquid supply pump, wherein selection of the power button selectively closes the pump switch to supply power to the liquid supply pump depending on the selected cleaning mode; and

a heater switch controlling the supply of power from the power source to the heater, wherein selection of the power button selectively closes the heater switch to supply power to the heater depending on the selected cleaning mode.

16. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 15 wherein:

the plurality of cleaning modes includes a liquid/vapor cleaning mode, a liquid cleaning mode, and a vapor cleaning mode;

in the liquid/vapor cleaning mode, selection of the power button closes the pump switch to power the liquid supply pump and closes the heater switch to power the heater;

in the liquid cleaning mode, selection of the power button closes the pump switch to power the liquid supply pump and does not close the heater switch; and

in the steam cleaning mode, selection of the power button closes the heater switch to power the heater and does not close the pump switch.

17. The surface cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11 wherein the handheld body comprises:

a main housing comprising a base adapted to rest directly on a floor surface;

a partition extending upward from the base; and

a handle located on an upper portion of the partition;

wherein the supply tank is removably mounted to the main housing on a first side of the partition and the recovery tank is removably mounted to the main housing on a second side of the partition;

wherein the heater, the liquid supply pump and the vapor supply pump are positioned below the handle.

18. The surface cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11 comprising a second pressure relief device in a portion of a supply path between the heater and the hand-held cleaning tool to limit pressure in the supply path, wherein the first pressure relief device is configured to open at a first set pressure and the second pressure relief device is configured to open at a second set pressure different from the first set pressure.

19. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 18 wherein the first pressure relief device opens under positive pressure and the second pressure relief device opens under negative pressure.

20. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 19 wherein the second pressure relief device opens to the ambient environment at a predetermined pressure.

Images