Abstract:
An apparatus and method for cleaning. The original motivation for the creation of the apparatus was the cleaning of shoes or bare feet, but the apparatus can be used in other organic and inorganic applications as well. The apparatus can be used in conjunction with a variety of different vacuum technologies, including wet dry vacuum systems. The apparatus can be implemented as a stand-alone mat or as modular component that can be combined with other units to achieve the desired coverage area.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The invention relates generally to apparatuses and methods for cleaning. More specifically, the invention is an apparatus and method for cleaning that utilizes vacuum technology (collectively the “apparatus”). 
         [0002]    According to the October 2010 issue of  Medicine  &amp;  Science in Sports  &amp;  Exercise , Americans take an average of 5,117 steps each day. Even though many Americans rely on motorized transport to take them to destinations for work, school, shopping, and recreation, the average American still walks more than 2 miles each day. The typical person takes approximately 2,000 steps per mile. 
         [0003]    Any article of clothing gets dirty over time. However, footwear is particularly susceptible to becoming dirty because of the repeated contact to the ground and the outdoor environment. When walking outside, footwear is exposed to the elements such as snow, sand, water, dirt, mud, dust, slush, ice, and other substances (collectively “debris”). 
         [0004]    The accumulation of debris on footwear is not just a matter of aesthetics. Debris can make it easy for the wearer of the footwear to slip and fall. Nor is the accumulation of footwear debris only a problem for the wearer of the footwear. Offices, retail stores, auditoriums, sports arenas, schools, industrial sites, and other settings are impacted by the accumulated footwear debris of their visitors. For example, the accumulated footwear debris brought into a shopping mall during the winter Christmas holiday season can be a significant aesthetic and safety issue for the mall. Footwear debris can also create problems relating to health, hygiene, and sanitation in places such as restaurants and hospitals. 
         [0005]    The accumulation of debris on the foot is not limited to interior environments. For example, beach goers at an ocean side resort may bring unwanted sand from the beach into an exterior pool area, hotel, boat, restaurant, or automobile. 
         [0006]    It retrospect, it would be desirable to provide people with a convenient and cost efficient technology capable of cleaning feet, footwear, and even other items capable of being encumbered with debris. In hindsight, it would also be desirable for such technology to utilize vacuum suction so that the person using the technology does not need to exert physical effort in removing debris from their person or possessions. 
         [0007]    Unfortunately, the prior art teaches away from such approaches for a variety of reasons. The potential for user error and resulting safety issues deter against vacuum approaches in automated technologies. Such considerations are further complicated by the significant variety of different footwear and foot characteristics to be processed by a one-size-fits-all approach. 
         [0008]    A small child will weigh significantly less than a large-framed obese adult male. The universe of women&#39;s shoes includes some very narrow heels that could conceivably get stuck in a vacuum-based cleaning device. Insufficient suction (or insufficient vacuum conditions) precludes effective cleaning. Conversely, sufficient suction power can cause problems if the geometry of the device or the cleaned item permits the cleaned item to become stuck in the device. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    The invention relates generally to apparatuses and methods for cleaning. More specifically, the invention is an apparatus and method for cleaning that utilizes vacuum technology (collectively the “apparatus”). 
         [0010]    The apparatus can be implemented using wet vacuum technology in conjunction with water as well as with dry vacuum technology. 
         [0011]    The apparatus can be used to clean the shoes or even the bare feet of the person walking onto the apparatus. The apparatus can also potentially be used for items besides feet or footwear, including for example sports equipment, packages, and other items that can benefit from vacuum-based cleaning. 
         [0012]    Vacuum conditions in the vacuum chamber of the apparatus can be maintained by a variety of tension-protrusion assemblies that include a tension component and a protrusion component. The tension component (which in many instances could also be called a compression component) partially counteracts the force of the mass placed on the apparatus, mass which can include that of a human being in many embodiments of the apparatus. The protrusion component in conjunction with a space in a top plate creates a gap that is small enough to sustain substantially vacuum conditions while large enough to permit the flow of air and in some embodiments, water. 
         [0013]    The apparatus can be implemented as a stand-alone device or in a modular framework in which multiple units of the apparatus are connected in concert with each other. In some embodiments, the apparatus can be implemented in a highly embedded manner, such as being built into the floor in the entryway of a shopping mall or office building. The apparatus can also be implemented in highly mobile manner, allowing for consumers to store away the apparatus in a closet when the apparatus is not being used. 
         [0014]    The apparatus can be more fully understood upon reading the accompanying drawings that are discussed briefly below. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0015]    The following drawings illustrate different examples and embodiments of the apparatus: 
           [0016]      FIG. 1   a  is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of an apparatus. 
           [0017]      FIG. 1   b  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of an apparatus. 
           [0018]      FIG. 2   a  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of “close-up” top view of a portion of the illustration of  FIG. 1   b  in which a protrusion component sticks out of an opening in a top plate. 
           [0019]      FIG. 2   b  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross-section side view of a protrusion component when a mass is loaded on the apparatus and the apparatus is in a state of maximum displacement. 
           [0020]      FIG. 2   c  is a plan view diagram similar to  FIG. 2   b , except that the illustrated example is that of an apparatus that is not loaded, with the protrusion component sticking up above the top plate, i.e. a state of minimum displacement. 
           [0021]      FIG. 2   d  is a block diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a tension-protrusion assembly. 
           [0022]      FIG. 3   a  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of the apparatus and the positioning of different components hidden from view by the frame. 
           [0023]      FIG. 3   b  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of the apparatus in an unloaded state without any displacement, unblocked by the frame of the apparatus. 
           [0024]      FIG. 3   c  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of the apparatus similar to  FIG. 3   b , except that the apparatus is in a loaded state with maximum displacement. 
           [0025]      FIG. 3   d  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of the apparatus that includes a mat on top of a top plate, impacting the magnitude of displacement of the protrusion component. 
           [0026]      FIG. 4   a  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a tension-protrusion assembly in a state of maximum compression. 
           [0027]      FIG. 4   b  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a tension-protrusion assembly in a state of minimum compression. 
           [0028]      FIG. 4   c  is a close up view of a single tension-protrusion assembly from  FIG. 4   b.    
           [0029]      FIG. 5   a  is flow chart diagram illustrating an example of a process for using that apparatus that includes both vacuum and water. 
           [0030]      FIG. 5   b  is a flow chart diagram illustrating an example of a process for using the apparatus that includes vacuum but not the use of water. 
           [0031]      FIG. 6   a  is a perspective diagram illustrating an example of a bottom plate and frame. 
           [0032]      FIG. 6   b  is a perspective diagram illustrating an example of a bottom plate, frame, and an adaptor. 
           [0033]      FIG. 6   c  is a perspective diagram illustrating an example of a top plate with circular openings. 
           [0034]      FIG. 6   d  is a perspective diagram illustrating examples of L and U brackets that can used to comprise the frame. 
           [0035]      FIG. 6   e  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of a flat spring. 
           [0036]      FIG. 6   f  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a tension-protrusion assembly. 
           [0037]      FIG. 6   g  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of hemisphere. 
           [0038]      FIG. 6   h  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of a donut used within the tension-protrusion assembly. 
           [0039]      FIG. 6   i  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a tension-protrusion assembly that does not include a connector on the top surface of the hemisphere. 
           [0040]      FIG. 6   j  is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of top plate and various L joints comprising a frame. 
           [0041]      FIG. 6   k  is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of a bottom view of a top plate and a configuration of tension-protrusion assemblies attached to the bottom surface of the top plate. 
           [0042]      FIG. 6   l  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a tension-protrusion assembly. 
           [0043]      FIG. 6   m  is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of how the apparatus can be implemented in a modular manner. 
           [0044]      FIG. 6   n  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a tension-protrusion assembly and its position with respect to a bottom plate in an unloaded state. 
           [0045]      FIG. 6   o  is a plan view diagram similar to  FIG. 6   n  except that the illustrated example includes a tension-protrusion assembly in a fully loaded state. 
           [0046]      FIG. 6   p  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a bottom view of a hemisphere with an aluminum hex insert. 
           [0047]      FIG. 6   q  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a hemisphere with an aluminum hex insert. 
           [0048]      FIG. 6   r  is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of a bottom perspective view of a hemisphere with an aluminum hex insert. 
       
    
    
       [0049]    The apparatus can be more fully understood upon reading the following detailed description. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0050]    The invention relates generally to apparatuses and methods for cleaning. More specifically, the invention is an apparatus and method for cleaning that utilizes vacuum technology (collectively the “apparatus”). 
         [0051]    The apparatus can be implemented in wide variety of different configurations. In accordance with the provisions of the patent statutes, the principles and modes of operation of this invention have been explained and illustrated in preferred embodiments. However, it must be understood that this invention may be practiced otherwise than is specifically explained and illustrated without departing from its spirit or scope. For example, the apparatus can be implemented in a wide range of difference shapes and sizes, utilizing a wide range of different components. In many embodiments, the apparatus will be in the shape of a cube or a rectangular block, but other shapes are possible. The apparatus is readily scalable, and can be implemented in a modular manner. The apparatus can also be implemented in a fully mobile and portable configuration, as well as permanently embedded into a particular location. 
         [0052]    The apparatus can be adapted in a variety of alternative embodiments to better address specific operating requirements in specific operating contexts. 
       I. OVERVIEW 
       [0053]      FIGS. 1   a - 6   r  collectively illustrate (1) different examples of a cleaning apparatuses  100  that utilizes vacuum technology and (2) different components and component configurations that can be utilized in such apparatuses  100 . The apparatus can include a variety of different components and component configurations.  FIG. 1   a  is a perspective diagram illustrating an example of an embodiment of the apparatus  100  that is fully assembled.  FIG. 1   b  is top view illustration of the apparatus  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1   a.    
         [0054]    A. Vacuum Cleaner 
         [0055]    The apparatus  100  can be used in conjunction with a wide variety of different vacuum cleaners. The requirements for suction power will necessarily be impacted by the size and intended context of the apparatus  100 . 
         [0056]    As illustrated in  FIGS. 1   a  and  1   b , the apparatus  100  can include a vacuum adapter  108  (or simply an adapter  108 ). The suction of the vacuum cleaner operates to the apparatus  100  through the adapter  108 . The purpose of the adapter  108  to connect the apparatus  100  to a vacuum cleaner (or some similar device that provides for generating suction force) that is otherwise separate and distinct from the apparatus  100 . Although the marketplace can provide a wide range of product options for vacuum cleaners, there are a relatively narrow range of connection geometries that are typically used in the vacuum cleaner industry. Moreover the adaptor  108  can utilize a variety of extensions or plugs to facilitate compatibility with a wide range of different vacuum cleaner configurations. 
         [0057]    In most embodiments, it is advantageous to provide vacuum functionality to the apparatus  100  through the adapter  108  that is capable of being connected to various different vacuum devices rather than permanently building in the vacuum cleaner device into the apparatus  100  (or vice versa). A modular approach to the apparatus  100  that allows different components to be moved around can provide beneficial flexibility. An apparatus  100  permanently attached with an embedded vacuum cleaner is thus less desirable in most circumstances. 
         [0058]    B. Core Functionality 
         [0059]    The apparatus  100  uses vacuum technology, i.e. suction power, to facilitate the function of cleaning. The original inspiration behind the design of the apparatus  100  is the use of vacuum technology to clean shoes and feet, but at least some embodiments of the apparatus  100  can also be used outside of those contexts. 
         [0060]    1. Loading the Apparatus 
         [0061]    Use of the apparatus  100  involves loading the apparatus  100 , i.e. placing a mass on the top surface of the apparatus  100 . As illustrated in  FIG. 1   a , the apparatus  100  has a top plate  104  with a variety of protrusions  106  sticking up through the top plate  104 .  FIG. 2   a  provides a close up top view of a protrusion component  106  in the shape of a hemisphere protruding upwards through a circular opening  110  in the top plate  104 . Loading the apparatus  100  involves placing the load on one or more protrusions  106 , placing downward force on one or more protrusions  106 . For example, a human being wearing shoes steps onto the top plate  104  of the apparatus  100 , stepping on some of the protrusions  106 , resulting in the application of downward force on those protrusions  106 . 
         [0062]    2. Compression of the Tension Component 
         [0063]    As illustrated in the block diagram of  FIG. 2   d , a protrusion component  106  is supported by a tension component  112 , which can also be referred to as a compression component  112 . The tension component  112  serves to allow the vertical motion of protrusion component  106  while at the same time acting to resist the magnitude of such motion. In many embodiments, the tension component  112  is some type of spring or an assembly that includes one or more springs. 
         [0064]    The tension component  112  permits but also impedes the downward movement of the protrusion component  106 . The result of that slight downward motion is to open a slight gap in the top surface of the apparatus  100 . 
         [0065]    3. Gap to Facilitate Cleaning 
         [0066]    In stepping on the apparatus  100 , a slight gap is opened on the top surface of the apparatus  100  to permit sufficient air flow to facilitate cleaning. If the gap is too small, there is insufficient throughput for the debris being cleaned. If the gap is too large, then the suction power of the vacuum is negated, negatively impacting the ability of the apparatus  100  to perform the cleaning function of the apparatus  100 . 
         [0067]      FIG. 2   c  illustrates an example of a protrusion component  106  in a fully unloaded state. The protrusion component  106  fits snuggly in the opening  110  in the top plate  104 . In contrast,  FIG. 2   b  illustrates the same components when the protrusion component  106  is loaded. As is illustrated in  FIG. 2   b , there is a small gap between the protrusion component  106  and the top plate  104  that does not exist in  FIG. 2   c . That gap must be the appropriate size to facilitate the throughput of debris while still maintaining near-vacuum conditions within the apparatus  100  itself. 
         [0068]    Both  FIGS. 2   b  and  2   c  reveal that it can be desirable to have a tapered opening  110  in the top plate  104 . The opening  110  is wider at the bottom of the top plate  104  than it is in the top of the top plate  104 . 
         [0069]    C. Wet Vacuum and Dry Vacuum Embodiments 
         [0070]    The apparatus  100  can be implemented to utilize wet vacuum technology in conjunction with the application of water to perform the cleaning function of the apparatus  100 . The apparatus  100  can also be implemented to utilize dry vacuum technology without the use of water to perform the cleaning function of the apparatus  100 . 
         [0071]    D. Modular and Non-Modular Embodiments 
         [0072]    The apparatus  100  can be implemented in a modular manner that allows the apparatus  100  to connect with other apparatuses  100  to provide a wider area of functionality.  FIGS. 6   b  and  6   m  illustrate how multiple apparatuses  100  can function as a single unit in a highly modular approach. 
         [0073]    As illustrated in  FIGS. 1   a  and  1   b , the apparatus  100  can also be implemented as a single stand-alone embodiment. 
         [0074]    E. Portable and Embedded Embodiments 
         [0075]    The apparatus  100  can be embodied in a highly portable device that consumers can take with them when they travel. The apparatus  100  can also be embodied in less mobile embodiments that can even involve embedding the apparatus  100  into specific locations as other types of fixtures are incorporated into living and office space. 
         [0076]    F. Materials 
         [0077]    The various components of the apparatus  100  can be comprised of a wide variety of different materials. In order to support the weight of human beings, many components such as the frame  102 , top plate  104 , and bottom plate  114  will often be comprised of a metal, such as aluminum. Other items such as the adapter  108  or protrusion components  106  can be comprised of plastic. 
       II. INTRODUCTION OF ELEMENTS AND DEFINITIONS 
       [0078]      FIG. 1   a  is a perspective diagram illustrating an example of an apparatus  100 .  FIG. 1   b  is a plan view diagram illustrating a top view of the apparatus  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1   a.    
         [0079]    A. Frame 
         [0080]    A frame  102  of the apparatus  100  can serve a variety of purposes for the proper functioning of the apparatus  100 . The frame  102  can help implement the applicable vacuum-like conditions between a bottom plate  114  and a top plate  104  to support the functioning of the apparatus  100 . The frame  102  can also serve to keep various components of the apparatus  100  in the appropriate and desired positions. 
         [0081]    Examples of frames  102  are illustrated in  FIGS. 1   a ,  1   b , and  3   a . A frame  102  can be comprised of various L-brackets  127  (see  FIGS. 6   d  and  6   j ) and/or U-brackets  126  (see  FIG. 6   a ) 
         [0082]    The frame  102  is typically rectangular in shape, although it can be implemented in different shapes. The frame  102  also assists in sustaining near vacuum conditions between the top plate  104  and the bottom plate  114 . The frame  102  can be made of a wide variety of different materials. In most embodiments of the apparatus  100 , the frame  102  is stationary throughout the use of the apparatus  100 . A frame height  116  (see  FIG. 3   a ) exceeds a maximum top plate vertical position  120  (see  FIG. 3   c ) as well as the minimum top plate vertical position  118  (see  FIG. 3   b ). 
         [0083]    B. Bottom Plate 
         [0084]      FIG. 1   a  illustrates an example of a bottom plate  114 . The bottom plate  114  is not visible in  FIG. 1   b  because  FIG. 1   b  is a top view of the apparatus  100 . 
         [0085]    Examples of a bottom plate  114  are also illustrated in  FIGS. 3   a ,  3   b ,  3   c ,  3   d ,  4   a ,  4   b ,  4   c ,  6   a ,  6   b ,  6   n , and  6   o . The bottom plate  114  forms the base of the apparatus  100 . In conjunction with the top plate  104  and the frame  102 , the bottom plate  114  helps sustain near vacuum conditions within the apparatus  100 . In most embodiments of the apparatus  100 , the bottom plate  114  is stationary through the use of the apparatus  100 . In many embodiments of the apparatus  100 , the bottom plate  114  is comprised of aluminum, although a wide variety of different materials and component configurations can be used. 
         [0086]    C. Top Plate 
         [0087]    Both  FIGS. 1   a  and  1   b  illustrate examples of a top plate  104 . Top plates  104  are also at least partially illustrated in  FIGS. 2   a ,  2   b ,  2   c ,  3   a ,  3   b ,  3   c,    3   d ,  4   a ,  4   b ,  4   c ,  6   c ,  6   j ,  6   k ,  6   m ,  6   n , and  6   o.    
         [0088]    In conjunction with the bottom plate  114  and the frame  102 , the top plate  104  helps sustain near vacuum conditions within the apparatus  100 . In many embodiments, the position of the top plate  104  is fixed, with one or more aspects of the tension-protrusion assembly moving in response to the load of the apparatus  100 . In a preferred embodiment, the position of the top plate  104  is fixed regardless of whether the apparatus  100  is loaded. 
         [0089]    In other embodiments, the top plate  104  may be supported by a tension-protrusion assembly and move when the load on the apparatus  100  is changed. In such embodiments, the position of the top plate  104  will vary from a maximum vertical position  120  with respect to the bottom plate  114 , and a minimum vertical position  118 . 
         [0090]    Something in the apparatus  100  will move when the apparatus  100  is loaded, so there will relative positions in the apparatus  100  that will be different when the apparatus  100  is loaded from when the apparatus  100  is not loaded. 
         [0091]    In embodiments where the top plate  104  does not move, the distance between the top surface of the top plate  104  and the top of the protrusion component  106  changes when the magnitude of the load on the apparatus  100  changes. 
         [0092]    In embodiments where the top plate  104  does move, the distance between the top surface of the top plate  104  and the bottom surface of the bottom plate  114  changes when the magnitude of the load on the apparatus  100  changes. 
         [0093]    D. Openings/Holes in the Top Plate 
         [0094]    One important attribute of the top plate  104  are the openings  110  in the top plate  104  that provide for the positioning of a protrusion component  106  upward through the top plate  104 . 
         [0095]    Examples of openings  110  are disclosed in  FIGS. 1   c - 1   e  and  1   g - 1   i . A number of openings  110  in the top plate  104  provide for maintaining a balance between (a) the absence of air and water flow between the area above the top plate  104  and the area below the top plate  104 ; and (b) inadequate vacuum conditions for the effective cleaning of a connected vacuum cleaner. In a preferred embodiment, the openings  110  will be circular or some other type of elliptical shape, although alternative shapes are possible. The geometry of the openings  110  should be designed with the geometry of an applicable protrusion component  106 . 
         [0096]    E. Tension-Protrusion Assembly 
         [0097]    As discussed above, the core functionality of the apparatus  100  involves the loading of a tension-protrusion assembly  133  as illustrated by the block diagram in  FIG. 2   d , as well as in less abstract figures such as  FIGS. 4   a ,  4   b ,  4   c ,  6   f ,  6   i ,  6   l ,  6   n , and  6   o.    
         [0098]    The apparatus  100  can utilize a wide variety of different tension-protrusion assemblies  13  to facilitate the proper vertical motion of the top plate  104  in response to the loading of the apparatus  100  (putting mass on the apparatus  100 ) and the unloading of the apparatus  100  (removing mass from the apparatus  100 ). 
         [0099]    The tension-protrusion assembly can utilize a wide variety of different component parts, subassemblies, and configurations. Each tension-protrusion assembly will typically include a tension component  112  and a protrusion component  106 . 
         [0100]    1. Protrusion Component 
         [0101]    Examples of protrusion components  106  are illustrated in  FIGS. 1   a ,  1   b ,  1   c ,  1   d , and  1   e . In many embodiments of the apparatus  100 , the protrusion component  106  will be positioned on top of the tension component  112 . A protrusion component  106  is the component in conjunction with the openings  110  that creates the geometry for enabling the proper air and water flow in the apparatus  100 . In many embodiments, the protrusion component is a half-sphere. Other geometric shapes can also be used. 
         [0102]    Many embodiments of the protrusion components  106  will be hollow hemispheres  132  comprised of polyethylene and filled with silicon. 
         [0103]    2. Tension Component 
         [0104]    Examples of tension components  112  are illustrated in  FIGS. 1   f - 1   i . A wide variety of components are capable of serving as a tension component  112 , and thus a tension component  112  is illustrated by the “black box” in  FIGS. 1   f - 1   i . Common examples of tension components  112  are springs, but any device capable of contracting upon the loading of the apparatus  100 , and then expanding back upon the unloading of the apparatus  100  can potentially serve as a tension component  112  for the apparatus  100 . 
         [0105]    In many embodiments, flat springs  134  coupled into pairs will be used to collectedly support four hemispheres  132  comprised of polyethylene and at least partially filled with silicon. 
         [0106]    F. Mat 
         [0107]      FIG. 3   d  illustrates an example of a mat  121  sitting on top of the top plate  104 . A mat  121  is an optional component of the apparatus  100 . In many embodiments, the mat  121  can be removed from the apparatus  100  by the user/owner of the apparatus  100 . The mat  121  serves the function of allowing the user to more easily remove excess debris from their feet, shoes, or other surface. 
       III. LOADING/UNLOADING OF THE TENSION-PROTRUSION ASSEMBLY 
       [0108]    As discussed above, the tension-protrusion assembly  133  of the apparatus  100  is the part of the apparatus  100  that moves with the loading/unloading of the apparatus  100 . In most embodiments, the loading and loading of the apparatus  100  only involves the movement of components that comprise the tension-protrusion assembly  133 . 
         [0109]    As illustrated by the block diagrams of  FIGS. 2   d ,  3   a ,  3   b ,  3   c , and  3   d , the tension-protrusion assembly  133  of the apparatus  100  can include a wide variety of different shapes and sizes of protrusion components  106 , tension components  112 , and component configurations. 
         [0110]    As illustrated by the less abstract diagrams of  FIGS. 2   a ,  2   b ,  2   c ,  4   a ,  4   b , and  4   c , the tension-protrusion assembly  133  will often include a protrusion component  106  in the shape of a hemisphere and a spring  122  as the tension component  112 .  FIG. 4   c  in particular displays a tension-protrusion assembly  133  that is attached to the bottom surface of the top plate  104  by a connector  24  that connects the top plate  104  to the spring  122  and with the protrusion component  106  being attached to the spring  122 . 
         [0111]    Other examples of tension-protrusion assemblies  133  include  FIGS. 6   f ,  6   i ,  6   k ,  6   l ,  6   n , and  6   o.    
       IV. RELATIVE MOTION/DISTANCES WITHIN THE APPARATUS 
       [0112]    As noted above, in many embodiments of the apparatus  100 , only the tension-protrusion assembly moves when the apparatus  100  is loaded/unloaded. It can be useful to identify certain distances and how such distances vary between a loaded and unloaded state. 
         [0113]    A. Distance Across the Opening 
         [0114]    As illustrated in  FIGS. 2   b  and  2   c , the distance across the openings  110  in the top plate don&#39;t change with the loading/unloading of the apparatus  100 , but the opening can become progressively larger as the opening  110  progresses downwards from the top surface of the top plate  104 . 
         [0115]    B. Height of the Frame 
         [0116]    As illustrated in  FIG. 3   a , the frame  102  is typically the highest point of the apparatus  100 . At a minimum, the frame height  116  must be at least as tall as the top surface of the top plate  104 . 
         [0117]    C. Distance Between the Top and Bottom Plates 
         [0118]    The vertical area between the top plate  104  and bottom plate  114  as surrounded by the frame  102  makes up what is an air tight chamber to facilitate the suction of debris through the apparatus  100  to the vacuum cleaner. In most embodiments the top plate  104  does not move with the loading/unloading of the apparatus  100 , and as such a top plate/bottom plate distance  118  (as illustrated in  FIG. 3   b ) is constant regardless of the operating state of the apparatus  100 . 
         [0119]    D. Distance Between Protrusion and Bottom Plate 
         [0120]    In  FIGS. 3   c  and  4   b , element  120  is the distance between the uppermost portion of the protrusion component  108  and the plane of the bottom surface of the bottom plate  114  when the apparatus  100  is not loaded. 
         [0121]    In  FIGS. 3   d  and  4   a , element  121  is the distance between the uppermost portion of the protrusion component  108  and the plane of the bottom surface of the bottom plate  114  when the apparatus  100  is loaded. 
         [0122]    The different between distance  120  and distance  121  will vary in different embodiments of the apparatus  100 . In many embodiments, that differential will be approximately 0.5 inches. 
       V. PROCESS FLOW VIEWS 
       [0123]    As discussed above, the apparatus  100  can be implemented in both wet and dry embodiments. 
         [0124]    A. Wet Embodiments 
         [0125]      FIG. 5   a  illustrates an example of a process for using the apparatus  100  that utilizes water in conjunction with vacuum suction to clean the load places in the apparatus  100 . 
         [0126]    At  200 , the user steps onto the top plate  104  of the apparatus  100 . 
         [0127]    At  202 , the vacuum is activated. 
         [0128]    At  204 , water is supplied to the area being cleaned. 
         [0129]    At  206 , the water is deactivated. 
         [0130]    At  208 , the vacuum suction is deactivated. 
         [0131]    Then the process ends. 
         [0132]    B. Dry Embodiments 
         [0133]      FIG. 5   b  illustrates an example of a process for using the apparatus  100  that does not utilize water in conjunction with vacuum suction to clean the load places in the apparatus  100 . 
         [0134]    At  200 , the user steps onto the top plate  104  of the apparatus  100 . 
         [0135]    At  202 , the vacuum is activated. 
         [0136]    At  208 , the vacuum suction is deactivated. 
         [0137]    Then the process ends. 
       VI. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS COMPONENTS AND CONFIGURATIONS 
       [0138]      FIG. 1   a  is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of an apparatus  100 . The apparatus  100  includes a frame  102 , a top plate  104 , a variety of protrusion components  106  shaped as hemispheres  132 , a vacuum adapter  108 , and a bottom plate  114 .  FIG. 1   b  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of the apparatus  100  displayed in  FIG. 1   a.    
         [0139]      FIG. 2   a  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of “close-up” top view of a portion of the illustration of  FIG. 1   b  in which a protrusion component  106  in the shape of a hemisphere sticks out of an opening  100  in a top plate  104 . 
         [0140]      FIG. 2   b  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross-section side view that corresponds to  FIG. 2   a  when the apparatus is in a loaded operating state.  FIG. 2   c  is a similar diagram, except that it relates to the apparatus  100  in an unloaded operating state. 
         [0141]      FIG. 3   a  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of the apparatus  100  and the positioning of different components hidden from view by the frame  102 .  FIG. 3   b  illustrates the same configuration as  FIG. 3   a , except that the frame  102  is removed from view.  FIGS. 3   a  and  3   b  pertain to a loaded state while  FIGS. 3   c  and  3   d  pertain to an apparatus  100  in an unloaded state. 
         [0142]      FIG. 4   a  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of three tension-protrusion assemblies  133  in a state of maximum compression within the apparatus  100 .  FIG. 4   b  relates to the same components as  FIG. 4   a , except that the apparatus  100  is an unloaded state.  FIG. 4   c  is a close up view of a single tension-protrusion assembly from  FIG. 4   b.    
         [0143]      FIG. 6   a  is a perspective diagram illustrating an example of a bottom plate  114  and frame  102  comprised of U-brackets  126 . The U-brackets  126  are comprised of aluminum, and are 14⅝″ long, ⅛″ thick, and ¾″ wide with 45 degree cuts at the ends. The bottom plate  114  is also comprised of aluminum, that is 14⅝″ wide, 20⅝″ long, and 1/16″ thick. The height of the partial frame  102  illustrated in  FIG. 1   a  is approximately ¾″ high. 
         [0144]      FIG. 6   b  is a perspective diagram illustrating an example of a bottom plate  114 , frame  102 , and an adaptor  108 . In addition to the components illustrated in  FIG. 6   a , a vacuum hose adapter  108  approximately 1¼″ in diameter is also disclosed. The adaptor  108  includes male mating component  130  to connect with female mating components  129  in the U-brackets  126  of the frame  102 . 
         [0145]      FIG. 6   c  is a perspective diagram illustrating an example of a top surface of a top plate  104  with circular openings  110 . The top plate  102  is comprised of aluminum; with dimensions correspond to those of the bottom plate  114 . There are 48 tapered openings  110  measuring 1⅜″ on the top side and 1½″ on the bottom side. The top plate  104  includes a border that is wider than the rest of the top plate  104 . 
         [0146]      FIG. 6   d  is a perspective diagram illustrating examples of L brackets  127  and U brackets  128  that can used to comprise the frame  102 . The U brackets  128  are used in modular embodiments of the apparatus  100  to cover the space between the various modules when connected together. The L brackets  127  are 12⅝″ long, ½″ wide, and 1/16″ thick. They have 45 degree angle cuts added to the ends. 
         [0147]      FIG. 6   e  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of a flat spring  134 . The flat spring  134  illustrated in  FIG. 6   e  is ¾″ wide and 5″ long. The flat spring  134  includes 3 holes  136 , with a 3/16″ center hole for mounting the spring  134  to the top plate  104  and the two other ⅛″ holes for mounting the hemispheres  132  (i.e. protrusion components  106 ) to the spring  134 .  FIG. 6   f  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a tension-protrusion assembly  133  that includes a hemisphere  132  with the dimensions of 1.5″×7.5″, that is hollow with a wall thickness of ⅛″. The assembly  133  also includes a screw  142 , a small washer  144 , a wooden donut  138 , a large washer  146  and a hex nut  148 . The spring  134  has thickness of 0.025″ and is comprised of blue tempered shim stock. The wooden donut  138  has a 1¼″ diameter, is ¼″ thick, and has a center hole that is ¼″ in diameter.  FIG. 6   g  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of hemisphere  132 .  FIG. 6   h  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of a donut  138  used within the tension-protrusion assembly  133   
         [0148]      FIG. 6   i  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a tension-protrusion assembly  134  that does not include a connector on the top surface of the hemisphere  132 . In  FIG. 6   i , the bolt  142  goes upward through the bottom of the hemisphere  132  rather than downwards from the top surface of the hemisphere  132 . 
         [0149]      FIG. 6   j  is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of a top view of top plate  104  (as illustrated in  FIG. 6   c ) and various L joints comprising the upper portion of the frame  102  that corresponds to the top plate  104  (in contrast to the bottom portion which corresponds to the bottom plate  114 ). 
         [0150]      FIG. 6   k  is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of a bottom view of a top plate  104  and a configuration of tension-protrusion assemblies  134  attached to the bottom surface of the top plate  104 . As illustrated in the Figure, the tension-protrusion assemblies  134  are attached to the bottom surface of the top plate  104 , not the top surface of the bottom plate  114 . A spill barrier  150  is approximately ½″ high. The apparatus  100  also includes an alignment peg  152  to facilitate peg location for modular embodiments of the apparatus  100 . The tension-protrusion assemblies  133  are each comprised of two flat springs  134  and four hemispheres  132 . 
         [0151]      FIG. 6   l  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a tension-protrusion assembly  133  that includes two hemispheres  132  attached to a single flat spring  134 . A bolt  142  is used to connect the hemispheres  132  to the flat spring  132  in a configuration that includes two washers  144  and  146 . 
         [0152]      FIG. 6   m  is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of how the apparatus  100  can be implemented in a modular manner. A mating connector  160  comprised of male mating connections  140  is used to connect the apparatus  100  to other apparatuses  100  or to an adapter  108 .  FIG. 6   m  also discloses an adapter attachment  162 , with different attachments  162  being configured to interface with different vacuum devices. 
         [0153]      FIG. 6   n  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a tension-protrusion assembly  133  and its position with respect to a bottom plate  114  in an unloaded state.  FIG. 6   o  is the same assembly  133 , where one hemisphere  132  is loaded. The distance  120  that the hemisphere  132  protrudes upwards approximately ⅜″. The distance  118  between the plates is ¾″. A captive nut  166  is used to adjust flat spring  134  tension. Screws  164  protruding from the bottom of the hemispheres  132  serve as a contact point of maximum movement of the hemispheres  132 , with that distance  162  being equal to the distance between the bottom plate  114  to screw  164 .  FIG. 6   o  also illustrates an example of gaps  168  created by the depression of the hemispheres  132 , 
         [0154]      FIG. 6   p  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a bottom view of a hemisphere  132  an aluminum hex insert  170 . 
         [0155]      FIG. 6   q  is a plan view diagram illustrating an example of a cross section side view of a hemisphere  132  with an aluminum hex insert  170 . 
         [0156]      FIG. 6   r  is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of a bottom perspective view of a hemisphere  132  with an aluminum hex insert  170 . 
       VII. ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS 
       [0157]    In accordance with the provisions of the patent statutes, the principles and modes of operation of this invention have been explained and illustrated in preferred embodiments. However, it must be understood that this invention may be practiced otherwise than is specifically explained and illustrated without departing from its spirit or scope.