Surface cleaning apparatus with pivoting manifold

A surface cleaning apparatus, and in particular a fluid delivery or steam mop, comprises a handle and a base housing pivotally attached to the handle. The base housing can be used in two positions, whereby opposing sides of the base housing can selectively engage a surface to be cleaned. A manifold can pivot relative to the base housing, such that fluid can be delivered to the surface to be cleaned in both of the two use positions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Surface cleaning apparatus with steam delivery, such as steam mops, are well known devices for cleaning floor surfaces, such as tile, linoleum, vinyl, laminate, and hardwood floors. Typical steam mops have a reservoir for storing water that is fluidly connected to a selectively engagable pump or valve. The pump or valve outlet is fluidly connected to a steam boiler with a heating element to heat the water. The steam boiler generates steam, which is directed towards the cleaning surface through a nozzle or manifold mounted in a foot assembly that engages the floor surface. Steam is typically applied to the backside of a cleaning pad attached to the foot assembly. Steam vapor eventually saturates the entire cleaning pad as the moisture wicks outwardly from the point of steam application. The damp pad is wiped across the floor surface to remove dirt, dust, and debris present on the floor surface.

During use, the cleaning pad eventually becomes saturated with liquid and soiled with embedded dirt, dust, and debris. The soiled mop pad can be disposed of, or laundered and re-used. A cleaning pad can generally be used for one or two steam mopping sessions prior to being laundered.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A surface cleaning apparatus according to the invention comprises a base housing having a first and second opposing sides, a handle pivotally attached to the base housing, wherein the handle is rotatable with respect to the base housing about a first axis, a fluid delivery system carried by at least one of the base housing and the handle for storing a cleaning fluid and selectively delivering a cleaning fluid through a manifold comprising at least one release opening to a surface to be cleaned, and a coupling joint pivotally attaching the base housing to the handle and defining a first axis such that the handle can be moved front-to-back with respect to the base housing about the first axis between a first use position in which the first opposing side faces the surface to be cleaned, and a second use position in which the second opposing side faces the surface to be cleaned, wherein the manifold is configured to pivot relative to the base housing in unison with the handle such that the at least one release opening is generally oriented toward the surface to be cleaned in both the first and second use position.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(S) OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a surface cleaning apparatus having a foot assembly that rests on a floor surface, and a handle assembly pivotally attached to the foot assembly. More specifically, the invention relates to a surface cleaning apparatus in which the foot assembly is biased with respect to the handle assembly.

Referring to the drawings, and in particular toFIG. 1, a steam mop10according to a first embodiment of the invention comprises a housing with an upright handle assembly12and a base or foot assembly14pivotally mounted to the handle assembly12. The handle assembly12can pivot from an upright or stored position, in which the handle assembly12is substantially vertical relative to a surface to be cleaned, to a lowered or use position, shown inFIG. 1, in which the handle assembly12is rotated in a rearward direction relative to the foot assembly14to an acute angle relative to the surface to be cleaned. As shown herein, the steam mop10is adapted to glide across the surface to be cleaned on the foot assembly14and the handle assembly12is configured to direct the foot assembly14across the surface to be cleaned. Alternatively, the steam mop10can comprise wheels or rollers to facilitate movement across the surface to be cleaned. The steam mop10can be used for cleaning hard floor surfaces, such as tile, linoleum, and wood, or soft floor surfaces, such as carpets and rugs. In use, the foot assembly14is typically moved in a back-and-forth manner across the surface to be cleaned along a direction of travel D, although other movement patterns are possible.

The handle assembly12comprises an upper handle portion16and a lower body portion18. The upper handle portion16comprises a hollow handle tube assembly20having a grip assembly22fixedly attached to a first end of the handle tube assembly20and the body portion18fixedly attached to a second end of the handle tube assembly20via screws or other suitable commonly known fasteners. The grip22assembly is engagable by a user for manipulating the steam mop10. As shown herein, the grip assembly22has an arcuate shape; however, the grip assembly22can be formed in other shapes commonly found on surface cleaning apparatus, such as closed-loop grips having circular or triangular shapes.

FIG. 2is an exploded view of the upper handle portion16of the handle assembly12. The grip assembly22is formed by two mating arcuate grip halves24that form a recess to receive a pivotally mounted trigger26, with a portion of the trigger26projecting outwardly from the grip assembly22where it is accessible to the user.

The grip assembly22further comprises an upper cord wrap30, and a cord lock32. The cord wrap30is adapted to support an electrical cord34when not in use, and the cord lock32is adapted to retain one loop of the electrical cord34near the top of the handle assembly12during use, thus keeping the electrical cord34out of the path of the steam mop10. A power switch (not shown) can be provided on the steam mop10, and operably connects line electrical power to the steam mop10via the electrical cord34, thereby permitting a user to selectively energize the steam mop10.

The handle tube20comprises an upper tube36and a lower tube38which are coupled together by a tube bushing40. The tube bushing40comprises a bushing seal42at a lower end thereof. A connector tube44surrounds the upper and lower tubes36,38, overlapping the coupled ends of the upper and lower tubes36,38. The connector tube44further comprises a lower cord wrap46which, together with the upper cord wrap30, supports the electrical cord34when not in use.

The trigger26is operably coupled with an upper push rod48that is primarily positioned within the hollow interior of the upper tube36and a lower push rod50that is primarily positioned within the hollow interior of the lower tube38. The upper push rod48has an upper end52that is slidably mounted within the grip assembly22and a lower end54that extends through the tube bushing40and selectively engages the bushing seal42. The lower push rod50has an upper end56adjacent the bushing seal42and a lower end58that selectively engages a micro-switch (not shown) that is operably connected to a steam delivery system mounted within the lower body portion18.

The trigger26is positioned to engage the upper end52of the upper push rod48when squeezed, forcing the upper push rod48to slide downwardly within the upper tube36. The lower end54of the upper push rod48elastically deforms the bushing seal42and engages the upper end56of the lower push rod50through the bushing seal42. The lower push rod50slides downwardly within the lower tube38, and the lower end58engages the micro-switch (not shown).

FIG. 3is a partially exploded view of the lower body portion18of the handle assembly12. The lower body portion18comprises elongated, mating front and rear enclosures62,64that form a central cavity (not shown) therebetween for mounting components of the steam mop10, such as a portion of a steam delivery system of the steam mop10. A top enclosure66mates with the front and rear enclosures62,66to enclose the central cavity. InFIG. 3, the front enclosure62is shown exploded from the rear and top enclosures64,66. The front and rear enclosures62,66each comprise an extension at a lower portion thereof which mate together to form a handle extension68for coupling with the foot assembly14, as is described below.

The steam delivery system comprises a fluid distribution system for storing a cleaning fluid, heating the fluid to generate steam, and a steam distributor for delivering the steam to the cleaning surface. The fluid distribution system comprises a fluid supply tank70adapted for fluid connection to a receiver72on the top enclosure66. The fluid supply tank70is at least partially supported by the top enclosure66when mounted to the steam mop10. InFIG. 3, the fluid supply tank70is shown exploded from the top enclosure66. The fluid supply tank70is configured to hold a predetermined amount of liquid and comprises a tank outlet assembly74which mates with the receiver72and which can selectively be removed to fill the tank70. In one embodiment, the liquid is water or electrolyzed water. Optionally, a variety of cleaning chemicals, fragrances, botanical oils, and the like can be mixed with water to form the liquid. In an alternate embodiment not shown herein, an optional filter module can be detachably connected to the fluid supply tank70for removing impurities within the cleaning fluid.

A pump76, steam generator78, and a pressure relief valve80are mounted within the central cavity and fluidly connected via conventional tubing and fluid fittings therebetween. As shown inFIG. 3, an inlet of the pump76is coupled with the tank receiver72and an outlet of the pump76is coupled with the steam generator78via one branch of a T-shaped connection tube82. Another branch of the T-shaped connection tube82couples the outlet of the pump76with the pressure relief valve80.

The pump76is mounted between a front pump cover84and a rear tube cover86. The tube cover86attaches to the rear enclosure64, and, when assembled with the upper handle portion16(FIG. 2), encloses a portion of the lower tube38and lower push rod50therebetween, which extend downwardly through a handle receiver90in the top enclosure. The tube cover86further encloses the micro-switch. The pump76is selectively electrically coupled with the electrical cord34via the micro-switch (not shown) that is operably connected to the trigger26mounted in the grip22portion. The pump76can comprise a conventional solenoid pump. Alternatively, the pump76can be replaced by a valve (not shown) to permit liquid to flow from the fluid supply tank70into the steam generator78and, subsequently, onto the cleaning surface.

The steam generator78comprises a heating element for heating liquid that passes into the steam generator78from the pump76. For example, the steam generator78can be a flash steam heater or a boiler for generating steam. A steam port88is coupled to an outlet of the steam generator78and at least partially extends through the handle extension68for delivery of steam to the foot assembly14, as described below. The steam generator78is electrically coupled with the electrical cord34and can be selectively energized by plugging the cord34into a power outlet. As previously described, the pump76is selectively electrically coupled with the electrical cord34via the micro-switch (not shown) that is operably connected to the trigger26mounted in the grip22portion. Thus upon energizing the steam generator78, the pump76can be selectively activated to distribute steam when the user depresses the trigger26(FIG. 1).

FIG. 4is a cross-sectional view of the foot assembly14taken along line4-4ofFIG. 1. The foot assembly14comprises base housing92having mating first and second enclosures94,96, respectively that form a central cavity therebetween for mounting components of the steam mop10, such as a steam distributor98of the steam delivery system. The first and second enclosures94,96can be secured together with mechanical fasteners (not shown). The base housing92is swivelably mounted to the handle assembly12via a coupling joint100which receives the handle extension68. A cleaning pad102can be selectively received on the base housing92.

A latch assembly104can be provided for selective detachment of the foot assembly14from the handle assembly12. As shown herein, the latch assembly104comprises a latch106that is pivotally mounted to a lower portion of the handle assembly12and includes a locking protrusion108at one end thereof which is selectively received by within a locking slot110provided on the coupling joint100. An opposite end of the latch106comprises a user-engageable portion112that is biased on the locked position shown inFIG. 4by a spring114. Pressing the user-engageable portion112causes the latch106to pivot such that the locking protrusion108is withdrawn from the locking slot110, thereby allowing the handle extension68to be withdrawn from the coupling joint100, which effectively detaches the foot assembly14from the handle assembly12.

FIG. 5is a partially exploded view of the foot assembly14, illustrating the coupling joint100. As shown herein, the coupling joint100can comprise a universal or Cardan joint, and can be configured to permit the foot assembly14to swivel multi-axially relative to the handle assembly12. Alternatively, the coupling joint100can be configured to at least permit the foot assembly14to swivel about an axis X (shown inFIG. 1) relative to the handle assembly12, where the axis X is generally perpendicular to the axis defining the direction of travel D of the steam mop10.

The coupling joint100comprises a handle connector116which pivotally couples with a foot connector118and defines a first axis of rotation about which the foot assembly14can rotate with respect to the handle assembly12. The foot connector118in turn pivotally couples with the base housing92and defines a second axis of rotation about which the foot assembly14can rotate with respect to the handle assembly12.

The handle connector116comprises an upper tubular portion120which defines a socket122which slidably receives the handle extension68of the lower handle portion18. As shown inFIG. 4, the locking slot110can be formed in the tubular portion120. A pair of spaced arms126having aligned bores128therein extend downwardly from the tubular portion120. The tubular portion120is at least partially hollow to permit the passage of a fluid conduit124from the handle assembly12to the foot assembly14. The fluid conduit124can be fluidly coupled at one end to the steam port88(FIG. 3) and at the other end to the steam distributor98.

The foot connector118comprises front and rear holders130which can be mirror images of each other, in general. Each holder130comprises an upper extension132with an outwardly facing receiver134having a bore136formed therethrough. Each holder130further comprises a lower extension138that depends from the upper extension132. The lower extensions138are curved in opposing directions, and mate together around the steam distributor98to form a pivot receiver140which receives the steam distributor98and defines the first axis of rotation about which the foot assembly14can rotate with respect to the handle assembly12.

The foot connector118is coupled to the handle connector116by fasteners142which, as shown herein, include a head portion144and a shank portion146. The bores128,136in the handle connector116and foot connector118are aligned to receive the fasteners142. The head portion144of each fastener142is slightly smaller in diameter than the receivers134in the foot connector118, and the diameter of shank portion146is smaller than or about the same as the diameter of the bores128,136such that the shank portion146can be inserted into the bores128,136. The aligned bores128,136generally define the second axis of rotation about which the foot assembly14can rotate with respect to the handle assembly12. Caps148can be fitted over the head portion144of each fastener142to hide the fasteners142from view.

FIG. 6is a perspective view of the cleaning pad102for use with the foot assembly fromFIG. 4. The cleaning pad102can comprise a pocket-like pad, with opposed first and second cleaning surfaces150,152, respectively that are attached to each other by a peripheral cleaning surface154. An opening156in the peripheral cleaning surface154provides access to a pocket158defined by the cleaning surfaces150,152,154. As illustrated, the first and second cleaning surfaces150,152can be rectilinear in shape, with the opening156provided along one of the long sides of the first and second cleaning surfaces150,152. The peripheral cleaning surface154can extend along the remaining three sides of the first and second cleaning surfaces150.152. The opening156permits the cleaning pad102to be slid over the base housing92, such that the base housing92is received in the pocket158. Aligned U-shaped slots160which extend from the opening156can be provided in the first and second cleaning surfaces150,152to allow for the coupling joint100to extend exteriorly out of the cleaning pad102.

The first and second cleaning surfaces150,152can be made of the same material. Some non-limiting examples of suitable materials are woven or non-woven textiles comprising synthetic fibers such as microfiber. The microfiber can further comprise polyester or polyolefin fibers like polypropylene or polyethylene, for example. Furthermore, additional textiles comprising natural fibers such as cotton, bamboo, and hemp, for example, are also suitable. Alternatively, the first and second cleaning surfaces150,152can be made of different materials, such as materials having different textures or absorbencies. For example, the first cleaning surface150can have a rougher texture for vigorous scrubbing of highly soiled areas, while the second cleaning surface152can have a smoother texture for normal mopping.

The peripheral cleaning surface154can be made of the same material as the first and/or second cleaning surfaces150,152, or can be made of a different material. While described herein as being a cleaning surface, the peripheral cleaning surface154may not be used for cleaning purposes, but may simply be used to attach the first and second cleaning surfaces150,152together.

FIG. 7is an exploded view of the base housing92the foot assembly fromFIG. 4. The base housing92can be generally rectilinear in shape; however, the base housing92can be formed in other shapes commonly found on surface cleaning apparatus, such as triangular or elliptical. The first and second enclosures94,96are mirror images of each other, and will therefore be described using the same reference numerals. Each enclosure94,96comprises a generally rectilinear planar member162having a pair of long sides164and a pair of short sides166. A peripheral rim167extends around the planar member162, generally defining a recessed space that functions to trap steam between the base housing92and the surface to be cleaned, while the rim167contacts the surface to be cleaned. A U-shaped slot168extends inwardly from one of the long sides164and receives the portion of the coupling joint100(FIG. 5) which couples with the steam distributor98. The planar member162further has conventional mounting bosses and structural ribbing extending therefrom.

The steam distributor98comprises a steam manifold170mounted between the first and second enclosures94,96. The steam manifold170comprises an elongated tube172having an inlet tube174extending from a central portion of the tube172that couples with the fluid conduit124(FIG. 5) passing through the coupling joint100. The tube172is received by the pivot receiver140formed by the curved lower extensions138of the front and rear holders130, with the inlet tube174extending upwardly from the pivot receiver140between the front and rear holders130. The steam distributor98further comprises springs184that bias the base housing92relative to the steam manifold170as described in more detail below.

FIG. 8is a plan view of the inner side of the enclosures94,96ofFIG. 7. Since the enclosures94,96are substantially identical, the description of one applies to the other. Each planar member162has an arcuate cradle186which cooperate to receive the steam manifold170(FIG. 7). The cradle186extends laterally from the U-shaped slot168in opposing directions and has multiple steam distribution openings188formed therein. The cradle186can further comprise multiple guides190formed therein. As shown herein, each guide190can optionally comprise a pair of opposed projections192adjacent to the steam distribution openings188that extend inwardly towards each other from an inner surface of the cradle186.

The ends of the cradles186can have pockets200for rotatably receiving the plugs178and springs184of the steam manifold170therein (FIG. 7). The pockets200are defined between a terminal end wall202of the cradle186and a semicircular wall204spaced from the terminal end wall202. A biasing protrusion208can be provided within one pocket200of each enclosure94,96and can extend from an inner wall of the enclosure94,96toward the interior of the central cavity formed by the enclosures94,96. The other pocket200can comprise a relief space214. When assembled, the biasing protrusion208of one enclosure94,96is aligned with the relief space214of the other enclosure94,96.

FIG. 9is an exploded view of the steam distributor98fromFIG. 7. The steam manifold170comprises multiple outlets or steam release openings182that extend through the side wall of the tube172. The steam manifold170is configured to form a sealed steam distribution path to guide steam outwardly from the inlet tube174to the steam release openings182. The tube172may be at least partially hollow, with open ends176that receive plugs178which close the open ends176and prevent or at least reduce the escape of steam through the open ends176. Seals or gaskets180can be provided between the plugs178and the tube172to prevent undesirable leaks from the steam manifold170. The springs184are received on the plugs178.

When assembled with the enclosures94,96, the steam release openings182are aligned with the steam distribution openings188. In the embodiment shown herein, a single row of steam release openings182are provided, with one steam release opening182provided per the paired steam distribution openings188in the enclosures94,96. Since only one row is provided, the steam release openings182will fluidly communicate with the steam distribution openings188in only one enclosure94,96at a time. Thus, steam passes through only one side of the foot assembly14at a time. As is described below, the foot assembly14is configured such that steam passes through the side of the foot assembly14resting on the surface to be cleaned. Specifically, steam from the steam release openings182is passed through the steam distribution openings188in the enclosure94,96resting on the surface to be cleaned, and passes through the cleaning pad102onto the surface to be cleaned.

The steam manifold170further optionally comprises multiple corresponding tracks194that receive the guides190on the enclosures94,96(FIG. 8). As shown herein, each track194can comprise a pair of circumferential ribs196formed on the manifold tube172and defining a space198therebetween in which the projections192are received. Thus, the guides190can slide within the tracks194such that the steam manifold170can rotate relative to the enclosures94,96, but is restrained from moving laterally within the enclosures94,96by the ribs196. The steam release openings182can be located within the tracks194, or elsewhere on the manifold170. The plugs178further have a neck portion206that is received by the semicircular wall204and which rides along the semicircular wall204as the steam manifold170rotates with respect to the enclosures94,96.

As shown herein, the springs184can comprise helical torsion springs, each having a coiled portion210that wraps around a portion of the plug178, a free end212extending from the coiled portion210that can optionally be bent as shown herein, and a pin end213that is bent along an axis that is parallel to the axis of the coiled portion210. The pin end213is adapted to engage an arcuate track217formed in an outer face of the plug178. The track217extends approximately 180 degrees around the face of the plug178and further comprises a stop215at both ends thereof, only one of which is visible inFIG. 9. The stops215are configured to selectively engage the pin end213of the spring184while features in the base housing92simultaneously engage the free end212, and thus selectively apply tension to the coiled portion210of the spring184as the foot assembly14rotates with respect to the handle assembly12about axis X during use.

Referring toFIGS. 10-15, the foot assembly14is moveable between a first use position, shown inFIG. 10, in which one side of the cleaning pad102engages the surface to be cleaned, and a second use position, shown inFIG. 12, in which another side of the cleaning pad102engages the surface to be cleaned. Since the foot assembly14is freely moveable between the first and second use positions, both side of the cleaning pad102can be used during a cleaning operation.

As shown inFIG. 10, when the foot assembly14rests on a floor surface in the first use position, the second enclosure96defines the top of the base housing92and the first enclosure94defines the bottom of the base housing92. Thus, the first enclosure94rests on the floor surface. With the cleaning pad102received on the base housing92, the first cleaning surface150will engage the floor surface. As shown inFIG. 12, when the foot assembly14rests on a floor surface in the second use position, the first enclosure94defines the top of the base housing92and the second enclosure96defines the bottom of the base housing92. Thus, the second enclosure96rests on the floor surface. With the cleaning pad102received on the base housing92, the second cleaning surface152will engage the floor surface.

FIG. 13is a cross-sectional view through line13-13ofFIG. 10, showing the right-hand spring184when the foot assembly14is in the first use position. The biasing protrusion208can be offset from the associated plug178that is received within the pocket200, such that the free end212of the spring184is adjacent to the biasing protrusion208. When the foot assembly14is resting against a floor surface in the first use position, the base housing92will be generally parallel to the floor surface. In this position, the right-hand spring184is under compression by the free end212of the right-hand spring184, which is biased against the biasing protrusion208of the second enclosure96, and the pin end213, which is engaged by the stop215at the end of the track217, thus tending to pivot the base housing92downwardly relative to the coupling joint100when the foot assembly14is lifted off the floor as shown inFIG. 11. In the first use position, the right-hand spring184imposes a rotational force FSagainst the biasing protrusion208, which is overcome by a force FFimposed on the foot assembly14by the floor surface. While not shown, the left-hand spring184is not compressed. The free end212rests against the biasing protrusion208of the first enclosure94and the pin end213floats freely in the track217between the stops215. When the foot assembly14is lifted away from the floor surface, the foot assembly14automatically moves from the first use position ofFIG. 10to a neutral or transition position shown inFIG. 11in which the base housing92is rotated downwardly relative to the coupling joint100and the handle assembly12, such that the base housing92is in a more or less vertical orientation with respect to the floor surface.

FIG. 14is a cross-sectional view through line14-14ofFIG. 11, showing the right-hand spring184when the foot assembly is in the neutral or transition position. When the force FFimposed on the foot assembly14by the floor surface is removed, i.e. when the foot assembly14is lifted away from the floor surface, the rotational force FSof the right-hand spring184applies rotational force to the base housing92by biasing the biasing protrusion208of the second enclosure96away from the free end212of the spring184, which forces the base housing92into a substantially vertical position. In the vertical position, the right-and left-hand springs184oppose each other to maintain the foot in the substantially vertical position. In this position, neither pin end213engages the stops215. Alternatively, both pin ends213engage their respective stops215, such that a small amount of preload force from each spring184opposes each other to urge the foot assembly14toward the substantially vertical position.

To place the foot assembly14in the second use position shown inFIG. 12from the transition position shown inFIG. 11, the user can place a portion of the downwardly-facing long side of the base housing92against the floor surface, and use the handle assembly12to apply force to the base housing92, causing rotation of the base housing92in a desired direction.

FIG. 15is a cross-sectional view through line15-5ofFIG. 12, showing the left-hand spring184when the foot assembly14is in the second use position. When the foot assembly14is resting against a floor surface in the second use position, the base housing92is generally parallel to the floor surface. In this position, the left-hand spring184is compressed by the free end212, which is biased against the biasing protrusion208of the first enclosure94, and the pin end213, which is engaged by the stop215at the end of the track217as shown inFIG. 15. While not shown, the right-hand spring184is not compressed. The free end212rests against the biasing protrusion208of the second enclosure96and the pin end213floats freely in the track217between the stops215. The left-hand spring184imposes a rotational force FSagainst the biasing protrusion208, which is overcome by a force FFimposed on the foot assembly14by the floor surface.

It is noted that the steam release openings182of the steam distributor98are configured to be in fluid communication with the steam distribution openings188of the enclosure94,96that defines the bottom of the base housing92. Thus, steam is always supplied through the enclosure94,96that is in contact with or facing the floor surface. This arrangement permits steam to be continually applied directly towards the floor surface, regardless of which side of the base housing92is in contact with or facing the floor surface, i.e. regardless of whether the foot assembly14is in the first or second use position.

FIG. 16is a schematic view of a foot assembly14according to a second embodiment of the invention. The second embodiment of the invention may be substantially similar to the first embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-15, but may differ by the provision of a weighted portion220on the foot assembly14. Specifically, the weighted portion220may be located along one long side of the base housing92. This places more of the mass of the foot assembly14on one side of the axis of rotation X. Since the majority of the mass of the foot assembly14is offset from the axis of rotation X, the foot assembly14will have a greater moment of inertia in comparison with the first embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-15, in which the mass of the foot assembly14is more balanced with respect to the axis of rotation X. The weighted portion220can be in the form of an added component to the base housing92, or may be integrally formed with the base housing92.

The foot assembly14is moveable between a first use position, in which one side of a cleaning pad, such as cleaning pad102fromFIG. 6, can engage the surface to be cleaned, and a second use position in which another side of the cleaning pad can engage the surface to be cleaned. When the foot assembly14rests on a floor surface in either use position, the foot assembly14will be substantially horizontal to the floor surface, as shown inFIG. 16. When the foot assembly14is lifted away from the floor surface, the off-set mass of the foot assembly14provided by the weighted portion220will automatically rotate the foot assembly14downwardly relative to the coupling joint100and the handle assembly12, such that the base housing92is in a more or less vertical orientation with respect to the floor surface.

FIG. 17is a schematic view of a foot assembly14according to a third embodiment of the invention. The third embodiment of the invention may be substantially similar to the second embodiment shown inFIG. 16, but may differ in that the steam distributor98is positioned off-center with respect to a longitudinal centerline C of the base housing92. Specifically, the position of the steam manifold170may be biased toward one long side of the base housing92. This offsets the axis of rotation X, thereby placing more of the mass of the foot assembly14on one side of the axis of rotation. As shown, when combined with the weighted portion220, the steam manifold170may be biased away from the side of the base housing92comprising the weighted portion220. Since the majority of the mass of the foot assembly14is farther away from the axis of rotation X, the foot assembly14will have a greater moment of inertia in comparison with the second embodiment shown inFIG. 16, in which the mass of the foot assembly14is more balanced with respect to the axis of rotation. The foot assembly14can alternatively be provided with the off-center steam manifold170but without the weighted portion220.

The foot assembly14is moveable between a first use position, in which one side of a cleaning pad, such as cleaning pad102fromFIG. 6, can engage the surface to be cleaned, and a second use position in which another side of the cleaning pad can engage the surface to be cleaned. When the foot assembly14rests on a floor surface in either use position, the foot assembly14will be substantially horizontal to the floor surface, as shown inFIG. 17. When the foot assembly14is lifted away from the floor surface, the off-set mass of the foot assembly14provided by the offset axis of rotation X will automatically rotate the foot assembly14downwardly relative to the coupling joint100and the handle assembly12, such that the base housing92is in a more or less vertical orientation with respect to the floor surface.

FIG. 18is a schematic view of a foot assembly14according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. The fourth embodiment of the invention may be substantially similar to the first embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-15, but may differ by the provision of linear compression springs230,232configured to apply rotational force to the foot assembly14when the foot assembly14is lifted off a floor surface, rather than the torsion springs184employed by the first embodiment.

The foot assembly14is moveable between a first use position, shown inFIG. 19, in which one side of a cleaning pad, such as cleaning pad102fromFIG. 6, can engage the surface to be cleaned, and a second use position, shown inFIG. 21, in which another side of the cleaning pad can engage the surface to be cleaned. In the first use position, the second enclosure96defines the top of the base housing92and the first enclosure94defines the bottom of the base housing92and rests on the floor surface. In the second use position, the first enclosure94defines the top of the base housing92and the second enclosure96defines the bottom of the base housing92and rests on the floor surface. Since the foot assembly14is freely moveable between the first and second use positions, both side of the cleaning pad can be used during a cleaning operation.

FIG. 19is a schematic sectional view through line19-19ofFIG. 18, illustrating the base housing92of the foot assembly14in the first use position. The base housing92can comprise a circular channel234at each opposing end of the steam distributor98. The channel is divided into two channel sections236,238by a first partition240provided on the base housing92and a second partition242provided on the steam distributor98. As shown herein, the first partition240can be formed by cooperating protrusions on the enclosures94,96, and the second partition242can be formed by a protrusion extending from the plug178on the steam manifold170. Alternatively, the second partition242can be formed on another portion of the steam distributor98, such as the steam manifold170itself. Since the steam distributor98is movable with respect to the base housing92, the second partition242can move relative to the first partition240, thereby changing the size or length of the channel sections236,238.

The first linear compression spring230is provided within the first channel section236and can selectively float between the first and section partitions240,242. Likewise, the second linear compression spring232is provided within the second channel section238and can selectively float between the first and section partitions240,242.

As shown inFIG. 19, when the foot assembly14rests on a floor surface in the first use position, the steam distributor98is rotated such that the second partition242moves towards the first partition240, which compresses the first spring230therebetween. The first spring230imposes a rotational force FSagainst the partitions240,242, which is overcome by a force FFimposed on the foot assembly14by the floor surface. In the first use position, the second channel section238is longer the first channel section236. The second spring232is slack within the second channel section238and will not impose any substantial force against the partitions240,242.

When the foot assembly14is lifted away from the floor surface, the foot assembly14will automatically move from the first use position shown inFIG. 19to a transition position shown inFIG. 20in which the base housing92is rotated downwardly relative to the coupling joint100and the handle assembly12, such that the base housing92is in a more or less vertical orientation with respect to the floor surface.

FIG. 20is a cross-sectional view similar toFIG. 19, showing the foot assembly14in the transition position. When the force FFimposed on the foot assembly14by the floor surface is removed, the compressed first spring230will bias the first partition240away from the second partition242, thereby rotating the base housing92relative to the steam distributor98to a generally vertical position as shown inFIG. 20. In this position, the channel sections236,238have substantially equal lengths, and the rotational force FSof the springs230,232are balanced. Alternatively, the springs230,232can be configured to be slack within their respective channel section236,238in the transition position, such that the springs will not impose any substantial force against the partitions240,242.

To place the foot assembly14in the second use position shown inFIG. 21from the transition position shown inFIG. 20, the user can place a portion of the downwardly-facing long side of the base housing92against the floor surface, and use the handle assembly12to apply force to the base housing92, causing rotation of the base housing92in a desired direction. The steam distributor98is rotated such that the second partition242moves towards the first partition240to compress the second spring232therebetween, as shown inFIG. 21. The second spring232imposes a rotational force FSagainst the partitions240,242, which is overcome by a force FFimposed on the foot assembly14by the floor surface. In the second use position, the first channel section236is longer the second channel section238. The first spring230is slack within the first channel section236and will not impose any substantial force against the partitions240,242.

FIG. 22is a schematic view of a foot assembly14according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. The fifth embodiment of the invention may be substantially similar to the first embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-15, but may differ by the provision of flat springs250,252configured to apply rotational force to the foot assembly14when the foot assembly14is lifted off a floor surface, rather than the torsion springs184employed by the first embodiment.

The foot assembly14is moveable between a first use position, shown inFIG. 23, in which one side of a cleaning pad, such as cleaning pad102fromFIG. 6, can engage the surface to be cleaned, and a second use position, shown inFIG. 25, in which another side of the cleaning pad can engage the surface to be cleaned. In the first use position, the second enclosure96defines the top of the base housing92and the first enclosure94defines the bottom of the base housing92and rests on the floor surface. In the second use position, the first enclosure94defines the top of the base housing92and the second enclosure96defines the bottom of the base housing92and rests on the floor surface. Since the foot assembly14is freely moveable between the first and second use positions, both sides of the cleaning pad can be used during a cleaning operation.

FIG. 23is a schematic sectional view through line23-23ofFIG. 22, illustrating the base housing92of the foot assembly14in the first use position. The foot assembly14can comprise a first pair of flat springs250associated with the first enclosure94and a second pair of flat springs252associated with the second enclosure96. As illustrated herein, the first flat springs250can be formed as first resilient arms254integrally formed with the first enclosure94and the second flat springs252can be formed as resilient second arms256integrally formed with the second enclosure96. The arms254,256can extend in opposing directions. Alternatively, the springs250,252can be formed separately from the enclosures94,96, and can simply be attached or mounted thereto.

The foot assembly14further comprises a cam258at each opposing end of the steam distributor98and it rotatable therewith. As shown herein, the cam258can be provided on the plug178on the steam manifold170. Alternatively, the cam258can be provided on another portion of the steam distributor98, such as the steam manifold170itself. The cam258has an outer surface defining the profile of the cam258. As shown, the profile of the cam258is generally oblong, with side surfaces260that are generally flat and parallel, and end surfaces262that are more rounded. The side surfaces260can be closer together in comparison to the end surfaces262. In general, the profile shape of the cam258is not critical to the invention, as long as the foot assembly14can function as described below. The arms254,256are positioned to engage the cam258, with the cam258generally received between the arms254,256. Therefore, the arms254,256function as cam followers in the present embodiment.

As shown inFIG. 23, when the foot assembly14rests on a floor surface in the first use position, the steam distributor98is rotated such that the end surfaces252of the cam258engage the resilient arms254,256, thereby forcing them apart. The resilient arms254,256cooperatively impose a rotational force FSagainst the cam258, which is overcome by a force FFimposed on the foot assembly14by the floor surface.

When the foot assembly14is lifted away from the floor surface, the foot assembly14will automatically move from the first use position shown inFIG. 23to a transition position shown inFIG. 24in which the base housing92is rotated downwardly relative to the coupling joint100and the handle assembly12, such that the base housing92is in a more or less vertical orientation with respect to the floor surface.

FIG. 24is a cross-sectional view similar toFIG. 23, showing the foot assembly14in the transition position. When the force FFimposed on the foot assembly14by the floor surface is removed, the rotational force FSof the deflected arms254,256will rotate the cam258, such that the arms254,256engage the side surfaces260of the cam258.

To place the foot assembly14in the second use position shown inFIG. 25from the transition position shown inFIG. 24, the user can place a portion of the downwardly-facing long side of the base housing92against the floor surface, and use the handle assembly12to apply force to the base housing92, causing rotation of the base housing92in a desired direction. The steam distributor98is rotated, which concurrently rotates the cam258between the flat springs250,252, such that the end surfaces252of the cam258engages the resilient arms254,256, thereby forcing them apart, as shown inFIG. 25. The resilient arms254,256cooperatively impose a rotational force FSagainst the cam258, which is overcome by a force FFimposed on the foot assembly14by the floor surface.

FIG. 26is a perspective view of a foot assembly14according to a sixth embodiment of the invention. The sixth embodiment of the invention may be substantially similar to the first embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-15, but may differ by the provision of hooded members270configured to direct steam delivered from the steam release openings182(FIG. 9) toward the surface to be cleaned. The number of hooded members270can correspond to the number of steam release openings182; in the embodiment shown herein, six steam release openings182and hooded members270are provided.

The hooded members270can be provided on each enclosure94,96of the base housing92, and can comprise two spaced side walls272extending from an exterior surface of the enclosure94,96and a top wall274joining the side walls272. As shown, the side walls272extend from the cradles186which cooperate to receive the steam manifold170. The side and top walls272,274define a hood opening276which releases steam. The hood openings276can be arranged in different directions, such that some hood openings276face one long side164of the base housing92and some hood openings276face the other long side164of the base housing92. As shown, the hood openings276face alternating directions. The hood openings276are further oriented to direct at least some steam parallel to the surface to be cleaned during operation.

Guide ribs278are further provided on the base housing92for further directing steam delivered from the steam release openings182(FIG. 9) toward the surface to be cleaned. The guide ribs278can be provided on each enclosure94,96of the base housing92, and can extend from one or more of the hooded members270for further guiding the steam released through the hood openings276. As shown, the guide ribs278extend from the innermost hooded members270to the rim167provided on the long side164of the base housing92that does not include the U-shaped slot168. The guide ribs278flare outwardly from each other toward the rim167, which increases the area defined by the guide ribs278and allows steam to spread out along the long side164of the base housing92.

The steam mop10of the invention offers a foot assembly14that is designed to automatically pivot when lifted from a floor surface, such that a user can easily switch between using the opposing sides of the foot assembly14during a cleaning operation. This configuration may be particularly desirable in combination with a cleaning pad, such as cleaning pad102, that covers both opposing sides of the foot assembly14because both sides of the cleaning pad can be utilized. A user can first clean the floor surface using one side of the cleaning pad, and when that side becomes soiled, the user can flip the foot assembly14and use the opposite side of the cleaning pad. Further, the user does not need to directly engage the foot assembly14to change the side of the cleaning pad facing the floor surface, offering a more sanitary operation and an essentially “hands-free” switching operation. The user simply lifts the foot assembly14off the floor surface using the upper handle portion16to do so, which has the added benefit that the user need no stoop to switch the orientation of the foot assembly14. Overall, the steam mop10provides a more efficient cleaning process and requires less frequent cleaning pad changes.

While the invention has been specifically described in connection with certain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that this description is by way of illustration and not of limitation, and the scope of the appended claims should be construed as broadly as the prior art will permit. Reasonable variation and modification are possible within the foregoing specification and drawings without departing from the spirit of the invention, which is set forth in the accompanying claims.