Patent Description:
<CIT> and <CIT> are examples of prior art cleaners.

A surface cleaning apparatus is provided herein. In certain embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus is a multi-surface wet/dry vacuum cleaner that can be used to clean hard floor surfaces such as tile and hardwood and soft floor surfaces such as carpet.

According to the present invention, a surface cleaning apparatus is provided with a wiper integrated with a removable brushroll and positioned to interfere with the brushroll as claimed in claim <NUM>.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a surface cleaning apparatus is provided with a roller integrated with a removable nozzle cover and positioned to interfere with a brushroll.

According to yet another aspect of the disclosure, a surface cleaning apparatus is provided with a rolling squeegee comprising a plurality of vanes, the rolling squeegee positioned forwardly of a brushroll and mounted for unidirectional rotation on a forward stroke of the apparatus.

According to still another aspect of the disclosure, a surface cleaning apparatus is provided with a cantilevered squeegee, the cantilevered squeegee positioned forwardly of a brushroll and configured to bend on a forward stroke of the apparatus.

According to a further aspect of the disclosure, a surface cleaning apparatus is provided with a fluid dispenser comprising a porous spray bar configured to deliver cleaning fluid onto a brushroll. The porous spray bar can be integrated with a nozzle cover or with a base to which a nozzle cover is coupled, and may be positioned to interfere with the brushroll.

In these and other aspects, the brushroll may be a hybrid brushroll that includes multiple agitation materials to optimize cleaning performance on different types of surfaces to be cleaned, including hard and soft surfaces, and for different cleaning modes, including wet and dry vacuum cleaning.

These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of particular embodiments, when viewed in accordance with the accompanying drawings and appended claims.

Before the 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 to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention may be implemented in various other embodiments and of being practiced or being 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 "including" and "comprising" and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof. Further, enumeration may be used in the description of various embodiments. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the use of enumeration should not be construed as limiting the invention to any specific order or number of components.

The invention generally relates to a surface cleaning apparatus for cleaning floor surfaces such as carpets, area rugs, wood, tile, and the like, and arrangements for removing excess liquid from brushroll and/or wiping liquid from a surface to be cleaned.

<FIG> show a surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> according to one aspect of the present disclosure. As discussed in further detail below, the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> is provided with various features and improvements, including wipers, squeegees, and/or fluid dispensers that can reliably collect debris of varying size, remove excess liquid from brushroll, and/or wipe residual liquid from the floor surface to be cleaned, thereby leaving a clean and streak-free floor surface.

The functional systems of the apparatus <NUM> can be arranged into any desired configuration, such as an upright device having a base and an upright body for directing the base across the surface to be cleaned, a canister device having a cleaning implement connected to a wheeled base by a vacuum hose, a portable device adapted to be hand carried by a user for cleaning relatively small areas, or a commercial device. Any of the aforementioned cleaners can be adapted to include a flexible vacuum hose, which can form a portion of the working air conduit between a nozzle and the suction source.

As illustrated herein, the apparatus <NUM> can be an upright multi-surface wet/dry vacuum cleaner having a housing that includes an upright handle assembly or body <NUM> and a cleaning head or base <NUM> mounted to or coupled with the upright body <NUM> and adapted for movement across a surface to be cleaned. As used herein, the term "multi-surface wet/dry vacuum cleaner" includes a vacuum cleaner that can be used to clean hard floor surfaces such as tile and hardwood and soft floor surfaces such as carpets and area rugs.

For purposes of description related to the figures, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," "outer," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in <FIG> from the perspective of a user behind the apparatus <NUM>, which defines the rear of the apparatus <NUM>.

The upright body <NUM> can comprise a handle <NUM> and a frame <NUM>. The frame <NUM> can comprise a main support section supporting at least a supply tank <NUM> and a recovery tank <NUM>, and may further support additional components of the body <NUM>. The surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can include a fluid delivery or supply pathway, including and at least partially defined by the supply tank <NUM>, for storing cleaning fluid and delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned and a recovery pathway, including and at least partially defined by the recovery tank <NUM>, for removing the spent cleaning fluid and debris from the surface to be cleaned and storing the spent cleaning fluid and debris until emptied by the user.

The handle <NUM> can include a hand grip <NUM> and a trigger <NUM> mounted to the hand grip <NUM>, the trigger <NUM> controlling the dispensing of fluid from a fluid delivery system including the supply tank <NUM> via an electronic or mechanical coupling with the tank <NUM>. Other actuators for the fluid delivery system, such as a thumb switch, can be provided instead of the trigger <NUM>.

The apparatus <NUM> can include at least one user interface (UI) through which a user can interact with the apparatus <NUM> and/or receive feedback information from the apparatus <NUM>. The UI can be electrically coupled with electrical components, including, but not limited to, circuitry electrically connected to various components of the fluid delivery and recovery systems of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, as described in further detail below.

In the illustrated embodiment, the apparatus <NUM> includes a UI with multiple input controls <NUM>, <NUM> on the hand grip <NUM>. One control <NUM> is a power button that controls the supply of power to one or more electrical components of the apparatus <NUM> and the other control <NUM> is a cleaning mode button that cycles the apparatus <NUM> between different cleaning modes. Some examples of cleaning modes include a hard floor cleaning mode and an area rug or carpet cleaning mode. In one example, in each cleaning mode a pump <NUM>, vacuum motor <NUM>, and brushroll motor <NUM> are activated, with the vacuum motor operating at a lower power level and the pump operating at a lower flow rate in the hard floor mode. Those rates increase in the area rug cleaning mode. Other cleaning modes are possible. Other input controls, such as but not limited to buttons, triggers, toggles, keys, switches, or the like, and other locations for the UI are possible.

The apparatus <NUM> can include a self-cleaning mode input control <NUM>, which initiates a self-cleaning mode of operation in which an unattended, automatic self-cleaning cycle runs. In one example, during the self-cleaning cycle, the apparatus <NUM> is docked on a tray and the pump <NUM>, vacuum motor <NUM>, and/or brushroll motor <NUM> operate to flush out portions of the recovery pathway of the recovery system and clean a brushroll <NUM> or other agitator. The input control <NUM> can comprise a button, trigger, toggle, key, switch, or the like, or any combination thereof, and can be located adjacent to the power button <NUM> and/or cleaning mode button <NUM>, or can be remote from the buttons <NUM>, <NUM> as shown. For example, the self-cleaning mode input control <NUM> can be located on the upright body <NUM>, or more specifically on the handle <NUM> or frame <NUM>.

The apparatus <NUM> can include a controller <NUM> operably coupled with the various functional systems of the apparatus, including, but not limited to, the fluid delivery and recovery systems, for controlling its operation. A user of the apparatus <NUM> can interact with the controller <NUM> via the UI and/or buttons <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. The controller <NUM> can further be configured to execute the self-cleaning cycle for the self-cleaning mode of operation. The controller <NUM> can have software for executing the self-cleaning cycle. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> is disposed inside the hand grip <NUM>, although other locations are possible.

A moveable joint assembly <NUM> can be formed at a lower end of the frame <NUM> and moveably mounts the base <NUM> to the upright body <NUM>. In the embodiment shown herein, the upright body <NUM> can pivot up and down about at least one axis relative to the base <NUM>. The joint assembly <NUM> can alternatively comprise a universal joint, such that the upright body <NUM> can pivot about at least two axes relative to the base <NUM>. Wiring and/or conduits can optionally supply electricity, air and/or liquid (or other fluids) between the base <NUM> and the upright body <NUM>, or vice versa, and can extend though the joint assembly <NUM>. The upright body <NUM> can pivot, via the joint assembly <NUM>, to an upright or storage position, an example of which is shown in <FIG>, and a reclined or use position (not shown), in which the upright body <NUM> is pivoted rearwardly relative to the base <NUM> to form an acute angle with the surface to be cleaned. In this position, a user can partially support the apparatus by holding the hand grip <NUM>.

The apparatus <NUM> can be powered by a power supply, such as a power cord <NUM> plugged into a household power outlet. In yet another embodiment, the apparatus <NUM> can be powered by a battery, preferably a rechargeable battery, for cordless operation.

The fluid delivery system of the apparatus <NUM> is configured to deliver cleaning fluid from the supply tank <NUM> to a surface to be cleaned, and can include a fluid delivery or supply pathway. The supply tank <NUM> includes a supply chamber for holding cleaning fluid. The cleaning fluid can comprise one or more of any suitable cleaning liquids, including, but not limited to, water, compositions, concentrated detergent, diluted detergent, etc., and mixtures thereof. For example, the liquid can comprise a mixture of water and concentrated detergent. Alternatively, supply tank <NUM> can include multiple supply chambers, such as one chamber containing water and another chamber containing a cleaning agent. As yet another alternative, the apparatus <NUM> can comprise multiple supply tanks. It is noted that while the apparatus <NUM> described herein is configured to deliver a cleaning liquid, aspects of the disclosure may be applicable to floor cleaner that deliver steam. Thus, the term "cleaning fluid" may encompass both liquid and steam unless otherwise noted.

The fluid delivery system can comprise a flow control system for controlling the flow of cleaning fluid from the supply tank <NUM> to a distributor <NUM> (<FIG>) configured to distribute or dispense the fluid. In one configuration, the flow control system can comprise the pump <NUM>, which pressurizes the system. The pump <NUM> can be positioned within the upright body <NUM> or within the base <NUM>, and is in fluid communication with the supply tank <NUM>, for example via conduit (not shown). In another configuration, the pump <NUM> can be eliminated and the flow control system can comprise a gravity-feed system having a valve fluidly coupled with an outlet of the supply tank <NUM>, whereby when valve is open, cleaning fluid will flow under the force of gravity to the distributor <NUM>.

The fluid delivery system can include a supply valve <NUM> controlling fluid flow from an outlet of the supply tank <NUM> to the pump <NUM>. For a removable supply tank <NUM>, the supply valve <NUM> can be configured to automatically open when the supply tank <NUM> is seated apparatus <NUM> to release fluid to the fluid delivery pathway.

The trigger <NUM> can be operably coupled with the flow control system such that pressing the trigger <NUM> will deliver cleaning fluid to the distributor <NUM>. For example, the delivery system can include a valve (not shown) in the fluid pathway extending between the pump <NUM> and the distributor <NUM>, and the trigger <NUM> can selectively open the valve to permit fluid to flow out of the distributor <NUM>.

Optionally, a heater (not shown) can be provided for heating the cleaning fluid prior to delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned. In one example, an in-line heater can be located downstream of the supply tank <NUM> and the pump <NUM>. Other types of heaters can also be used. In yet another example, the cleaning fluid can be heated using exhaust air from a motor-cooling pathway of the recovery system.

The recovery system is configured to remove liquid and debris from the surface to be cleaned and store the liquid and debris on the apparatus <NUM> for later disposal, and can include a recovery pathway having at least a dirty inlet and a clean air outlet. The pathway can be formed by, among other elements, a suction nozzle <NUM> defining the dirty inlet, a suction source <NUM> in fluid communication with the suction nozzle <NUM> for generating a working air stream, which may contain entrained liquid and/or debris, the recovery tank <NUM>, and at least one exhaust vent <NUM> defining the clean air outlet. At least a portion of the recovery pathway between the suction nozzle <NUM> and the tank <NUM> can be formed by a conduit <NUM>. A brushroll <NUM> is disposed in the recovery pathway at the suction nozzle <NUM>. Other arrangements for the recovery pathway are possible.

The recovery tank <NUM> is a working air treatment assembly, and removes liquid and debris from the working airstream and collects the liquid and debris for later disposal. It is understood that other types of working air treatment assemblies for removing and collecting debris and/or liquid from the working airstream for later disposal can be used, such as a cyclonic separator, a centrifugal separator, a bulk separator, a filter bag, or a water-bath separator. The type of working air treatment assembly may depend on the type of floor cleaner, whether the apparatus performs dry cleaning, wet cleaning, or both, and so on.

The suction nozzle <NUM> can be provided on the base <NUM> and is adapted to be adjacent the surface to be cleaned as the base <NUM> moves across a surface, and is in fluid communication with the recovery tank <NUM>, for example through conduit <NUM>. A brushroll <NUM> can be disposed in suction nozzle <NUM>, and therefore in the recovery pathway, with the brushroll <NUM> agitating the surface to be cleaned so that the debris is more easily ingested into the suction nozzle <NUM>. The suction nozzle <NUM> positioned to recover liquid and debris indirectly from the floor surface via the brushroll <NUM>. In other embodiments, the brushroll <NUM> can be outside the recovery pathway, for example to mop the floor surface, with the suction nozzle <NUM> positioned to recover liquid and debris directly from the floor surface.

While a single horizontally-rotating brushroll <NUM> is shown herein, in some embodiments, dual horizontally-rotating brushrolls or one or more vertically-rotating brushrolls can be provided on the apparatus <NUM>.

The suction source <NUM>, which can be a motor/fan assembly including a vacuum motor <NUM> and a fan <NUM>, is provided in fluid communication with the recovery tank <NUM>. The suction source <NUM> can be positioned within the frame <NUM>, such as above the recovery tank <NUM>, and is fluidly downstream of the recovery tank <NUM>. The recovery system can also be provided with one or more additional filters upstream or downstream of the suction source <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a pre-motor filter <NUM> is provided in the recovery pathway downstream of the recovery tank <NUM> and upstream of the suction source <NUM>. A post-motor filter (not shown) can be provided in the recovery pathway downstream of the suction source <NUM> and upstream of the clean air outlet <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the base <NUM> can include a base housing <NUM> supporting at least some of the components of the fluid delivery system and fluid recovery system and the suction nozzle <NUM> can comprise a nozzle cover <NUM> coupled with the base housing <NUM>. Optionally, the base housing <NUM> includes one or more wheels <NUM> for moving the apparatus <NUM> over the surface to be cleaned. The nozzle cover <NUM> can therefore define a portion of the recovery pathway and/or the dirty inlet of the recovery pathway.

The brushroll <NUM> is positioned in a brush chamber <NUM>, which may be formed by the base housing <NUM> and the nozzle cover <NUM>, and/or another portion of the base <NUM>. The brushroll <NUM> is thus positioned within the recovery pathway, and the brush chamber <NUM> defines a portion of the recovery pathway.

The brushroll <NUM> can be operably coupled to and driven by a drive assembly <NUM> including a brushroll motor <NUM> in the base <NUM>. The coupling between the brushroll <NUM> and the brushroll motor <NUM> can comprise one or more belts, gears, shafts, pulleys or combinations thereof. In <FIG>, a portion of the base <NUM> is removed so that the motor <NUM> and drive assembly <NUM> is visible. Alternatively, the vacuum motor <NUM> (<FIG>) can provide both vacuum suction and brushroll rotation.

As shown in <FIG>, the nozzle cover <NUM> can be removable from the base housing <NUM> to access the brushroll <NUM>, which can be removable from the brush chamber <NUM> for cleaning, drying, and/or replacement. The nozzle cover <NUM> closes the brush chamber <NUM> to capture the brushroll <NUM> therein. Accordingly, the nozzle cover <NUM> is removed from the base housing <NUM> prior to removing the brushroll <NUM>. With the cover <NUM> removed as shown in <FIG>, the brushroll <NUM> and brush chamber <NUM> can be accessed by the user. In other embodiments, the brushroll <NUM> and chamber <NUM> can be configured so that prior removal of a nozzle cover is not required, such as by having the brushroll <NUM> removable through lateral side of the base <NUM> or from the underside of the base <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the base <NUM> includes a first duct <NUM> forming a portion of the conduit <NUM> between the suction nozzle <NUM> and the recovery tank <NUM>. The first duct <NUM> extends through the base housing <NUM>, from a rear side of the suction nozzle, and fluidly couples with a second duct <NUM>. The first duct <NUM> can be a rigid duct formed at least partially by the base housing <NUM> and the nozzle cover <NUM>, and/or another portion of the base <NUM>. The nozzle over <NUM> can, for example, enclose and define a top wall <NUM> of the first suction duct <NUM>. The nozzle over <NUM> can be translucent to allow visual inspection of the duct <NUM> and brushroll <NUM>.

The second duct <NUM> can extend through the joint assembly <NUM>, e.g. from the base <NUM> to the body <NUM> (see <FIG>), and can be formed by a flexible hose to accommodate the movement of the joint assembly <NUM>. While shown as internal to the joint assembly <NUM> in the figures, in other embodiments, the second suction duct <NUM> can extend externally of the joint assembly <NUM>.

The distributor <NUM> for the delivery system can include one or more spray tips on the base <NUM>, and can be positioned to deliver cleaning fluid to the brushroll <NUM>, thereby indirectly providing cleaning fluid to the floor surface, or can be positioned to deliver cleaning fluid directly to the floor surface. In the embodiment shown, the spray tips <NUM> are provided on an interior or brush-facing side of the nozzle cover <NUM>. The spray tips <NUM> can be fed via channels of the cover <NUM>, which terminate in connector ports <NUM> that couple with spray connectors <NUM> on the base housing <NUM> when the cover <NUM> is installed on the base housing <NUM>. The spray connectors <NUM>, in turn, are supplied with cleaning fluid via the pump <NUM> (<FIG>) or other flow control system of the apparatus <NUM>. The spray tips <NUM> can optionally be oriented to spray fluid inwardly onto the brushroll <NUM>.

Other embodiments of fluid distributors are possible, such as a spray manifold having multiple outlets or a spray nozzle configured to spray cleaning fluid outwardly from the base <NUM> in front of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the brushroll is positioned in the brush chamber <NUM> and rotates in a direction R1 about rotational axis X. An interference wiper <NUM> is integrated with the brushroll <NUM> and forms an assembly <NUM>, with the assembly <NUM> being removable from the base housing <NUM> as a unit, one example of which is shown in <FIG>. The wiper <NUM> is configured to interface with a leading portion of the brushroll <NUM>, as defined by the direction of rotation R1 of the brushroll <NUM>. The brush chamber <NUM> can have a suitable clearance such that only the wiper <NUM> interfaces with the brushroll <NUM>, e.g. the nozzle cover <NUM> does not interface with the brushroll <NUM>. The interference wiper <NUM> is generally below the distributor <NUM> (<FIG>), such that the wetted portion brushroll <NUM> rotates past the interference wiper <NUM>, which scrapes excess liquid off the brushroll <NUM>, before reaching the surface to be cleaned. Other locations for the wiper <NUM> in relation to the brushroll <NUM>, where the wiper <NUM> is configured to interface with a portion of the brushroll <NUM>, are possible.

As can be seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, the wiper <NUM> is integrated with the brushroll <NUM>, such that when the nozzle cover <NUM> is removed, the wiper <NUM> remains on the base <NUM>. The entire assembly <NUM>, e.g. the brushroll <NUM> and wiper <NUM> is removable as a unit. <FIG> depicts the assembly <NUM> in a removed state. When removed, the brushroll <NUM> can be separated from the wiper <NUM>, for example as shown in <FIG>. This permits either the brushroll <NUM> or the wiper <NUM> to be replaced individually, rather than having to replace the entire assembly <NUM> when one component reaches the end of its useful life.

The brushroll <NUM> can be a hybrid brushroll suitable for use on both hard and soft surfaces, and for wet or dry cleaning. In one embodiment, the brushroll <NUM> comprises a brush bar <NUM> supporting at least one agitation element <NUM>, <NUM>. In one embodiment, the agitation element can comprise a plurality of bristles <NUM> and microfiber material <NUM> provided on the brush bar <NUM>, with the microfiber material <NUM> arranged between the bristles <NUM>. Bristles <NUM> can be tufted or unitary bristle strips and constructed of nylon, or any other suitable synthetic or natural fiber. The microfiber material <NUM> can be constructed of polyester, polyamides, or a conjugation of materials including polypropylene or any other suitable material known in the art from which to construct microfiber.

To rotatably support the brushroll <NUM> in the base <NUM>, the brushroll <NUM> can include an end assembly at a first end of the brush bar <NUM>. The end assembly can, for example, include a stub shaft <NUM> extending from the first end of the brush bar <NUM> and a bearing <NUM> having an inner race press fitted on the stub shaft <NUM> and an outer race fixed in a portion of the wiper <NUM>, as described in further detail below.

Referring to <FIG>, the wiper <NUM> can include an elongated wiper blade <NUM> having opposing ends. The wiper blade <NUM> can be disposed at a forward portion of the brush chamber <NUM> and interfaces with a wetted portion of the rotating brushroll <NUM> to scrape excess liquid off before reaching the surface to be cleaned. The blade <NUM> can be positioned to interfere with the at least one agitation element <NUM>, <NUM> within a forward, lower quadrant of the brushroll <NUM> (see <FIG>). Optionally, the wiper blade <NUM> can project in a rearward direction and generally parallel to the surface to be cleaned.

The wiper blade <NUM> can be rigid, i.e. stiff, and non-flexible, so the wiper blade <NUM> does not yield or flex by engagement with the brushroll <NUM>. Optionally, the wiper blade <NUM> can be formed of rigid thermoplastic material, such as poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polycarbonate, or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). In other embodiments, the wiper blade <NUM> can be flexible.

The wiper <NUM> can include an end cap <NUM> at a first end of the wiper blade <NUM>. The end cap <NUM> can be integrally formed with or otherwise attached to the wiper blade <NUM> such that the end cap <NUM> is removable from the brushroll <NUM> with the blade <NUM>. To mount the wiper <NUM> to the brushroll <NUM>, an outer race of the bearing <NUM> is fixed in the end cap <NUM>.

The wiper <NUM> can include a handle <NUM> to aid in removing the assembly <NUM> from the brush chamber <NUM>. The handle <NUM> can optionally include indents <NUM> in the sides of the handle <NUM> to assist in gripping the handle <NUM> to lift the assembly <NUM>. The indents <NUM> can, for example, by pinched between the thumb and forefinger of the user.

In the embodiment shown, the handle <NUM> can be integrally formed with or otherwise attached to the end cap <NUM>, and can project upwardly from the end cap <NUM> when the assembly <NUM> is seated in the brush chamber <NUM> (see <FIG>) so that a user can grip the handle <NUM> to lift the assembly <NUM> up.

Referring to <FIG>, the brushroll <NUM> can include a drive end cap <NUM> at a second end of the brush bar <NUM> that couples with a drive head <NUM> of the drive assembly <NUM>. The drive end cap <NUM> and the brush bar <NUM> are formed or joined together such that upon drive input to the end cap <NUM>, the brush bar <NUM> rotates. In one embodiment, the drive end cap <NUM> can have a splined drive connection with the drive head <NUM>. Other drive connections between the brushroll <NUM> and drive assembly <NUM> are possible.

To accommodate the drive coupling between the driven end of the brushroll <NUM> and drive assembly <NUM>, the wiper <NUM> can include a cap ring <NUM> at a second end of the wiper blade <NUM> (see <FIG>). The cap ring <NUM> can be integrally formed with or otherwise attached to the wiper blade <NUM> such that the cap ring <NUM> is removable from the brushroll <NUM> with the blade <NUM>. The cap ring <NUM> can have a larger inner diameter than an outer diameter of the drive end cap <NUM>.

To support the second end of the wiper <NUM>, the cap ring <NUM> is fitted over a hub <NUM> of the drive assembly <NUM>. The hub <NUM> can surround the drive head <NUM>, with clearance therebetween for the drive head <NUM> to spin within the stationary hub <NUM> when motive force is applied by the brushroll motor <NUM>.

The cap ring <NUM> can be chamfered for easy lead-in when installing the assembly <NUM> in the brush chamber <NUM>. The hub <NUM> can have an outer edge <NUM> that is beveled or chamfered and the cap ring <NUM> can have an inner edge <NUM> with a complementary bevel or chamfer, which allows for easy insertion of the hub <NUM> into the cap ring <NUM> and aids in centering the assembly <NUM> when coupling the drive end cap <NUM> with the drive head <NUM>. The chamfered inner edge <NUM> also exposes more of the drive end cap <NUM> for easier coupling with the drive head <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the assembly <NUM> can be secured in the brush chamber <NUM> by a latch. Various configurations for the latch are possible. In the illustrated embodiment, a portion of the latch is provided on the end cap <NUM>, with a mating portion provided in the brush chamber <NUM>. Particularly, the end cap <NUM> can have a latch member <NUM> that is snap-fit within a latch receiver <NUM> in the brush chamber <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in some embodiments, a squeegee <NUM> can be mounted to the base housing <NUM> behind the brushroll <NUM> and the brush chamber <NUM> and is configured to contact the surface as the base <NUM> moves across the surface to be cleaned. The squeegee <NUM> wipes residual liquid from the surface to be cleaned so that it can be drawn into the recovery pathway via the suction nozzle <NUM>, thereby leaving a moisture and streak-free finish on the surface to be cleaned. Optionally, the squeegee <NUM> can be disposed generally orthogonal to the surface to be cleaned, or vertically. The squeegee <NUM> can be smooth as shown, or optionally comprise nubs on the end thereof. In other embodiments, the squeegee <NUM> is not provided in addition to the wiper <NUM>.

The squeegee <NUM>, if present, can be pliant, i.e. flexible or resilient, in order to bend readily according to the contour of the surface to be cleaned yet remain undeformed by normal use of the apparatus <NUM>. Optionally, the squeegee <NUM> can be formed of a resilient polymeric material, such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a rubber copolymer such as nitrile butadiene rubber, or any material known in the art of sufficient rigidity to remain substantially undeformed during normal use of the apparatus <NUM>.

<FIG> show another embodiment of an interference wiper for the brushroll <NUM>. In the second embodiment, the interference wiper comprises a roller <NUM> integrated with the nozzle cover <NUM> and forms a removable assembly <NUM>, such that when the nozzle cover <NUM> is removed, the roller <NUM> is also removed. The entire assembly <NUM>, e.g. the cover <NUM> and roller <NUM> is removable as a unit. <FIG> depicts the assembly <NUM> in a removed state.

Referring to <FIG>, the roller <NUM> can include at least one rolling element <NUM> mounted for free rotation around an axis Y. Various configurations for free rotation of the rolling element <NUM> are possible. In one embodiment, the axis Y can be defined by a shaft <NUM> extending through the rolling element <NUM>. The shaft <NUM> is fixed at opposing ends thereof to a roller mount <NUM>. A bearing <NUM> is disposed at each opposing end of the shaft <NUM>, and have an inner race press fitted on the shaft <NUM> and an outer race fixed in an open end <NUM> of the rolling element <NUM>.

The roller mount <NUM> is coupled to the nozzle cover <NUM>, and can be integrally formed with or otherwise attached to an inner, or brushroll-facing, side <NUM> of the nozzle cover <NUM> to position the rolling element <NUM> in a suitable location for interference with the brushroll <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the roller mount <NUM> is a separately-formed piece that is secured to the nozzle cover <NUM> with screws <NUM>. Other attachments for the roller mount <NUM> are possible.

In the present embodiment, the rolling element <NUM> is elongated and comprises a cylindrical outer surface <NUM> extending between the open ends <NUM>. A single, elongated rolling element <NUM> minimizes opportunities for liquid and/or air leaks. The rolling element <NUM> may be a molded component made from any polymer with sufficient strength and resistance to chemical corrosion. Wood and metal are also suitable alternatives in some embodiments. The surface finish of the rolling element <NUM> may be smooth or textured. A smoother surface may be preferred, as it will stay cleaner and create less drag friction on the rolling element <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the at least one rolling element <NUM> is configured to interface with a leading portion of the brushroll <NUM>, as defined by the direction of rotation R1 of the brushroll <NUM>. The rolling element <NUM> can be disposed at a forward portion of the brush chamber <NUM> and interfaces with a wetted portion of the rotating brushroll <NUM> to compresses the brushroll <NUM> while substantially blocking air and water leakage at the forward side of the brush chamber <NUM>. The brush chamber <NUM> can have a suitable clearance such that only the rolling element <NUM> interfaces with the brushroll <NUM>, e.g. the nozzle cover <NUM> does not interface with the brushroll <NUM>. The rolling element <NUM> is generally below the distributor <NUM>, such that the wetted portion brushroll <NUM> rotates past the rolling element <NUM>, which compresses the microfiber <NUM> (or other agitation material) of the brushroll <NUM>, and forces excess liquid out of the microfiber <NUM> before reaching the surface to be cleaned. Other locations for the rolling element <NUM> in relation to the brushroll <NUM>, where the rolling element <NUM> is configured to interface with a portion of the brushroll <NUM>, are possible.

With the rolling element <NUM> mounted for free rotation, the rotating brushroll <NUM> can transfer force to the rolling element <NUM> via friction, resulting in the rolling element <NUM> rotating in a direction R2 about its rotational axis Y, with R2 being opposite the brushroll rotation direction R1. The rotational axis Y of the rolling element <NUM> is preferably parallel to the rotational axis X of the brushroll <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a gap <NUM> between the rolling element <NUM> and the roller mount <NUM> provides clearance for the rolling element <NUM> to freely rotate, e.g. by the action of the rotating brushroll <NUM> against the rolling element <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The roller mount <NUM> can have a curved roller-facing surface <NUM> that closely follows the cylindrical outer surface <NUM> of the rolling element <NUM>, with the gap <NUM> being defined between the surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>. The gap <NUM> and rolling motion of the rolling element <NUM> reduces the torque load on the drive motor <NUM> of the brushroll <NUM>. Preferably, the gap <NUM> is small to minimize air or water leaks. For the embodiment of the assembly <NUM> shown herein, the gap <NUM> may be on the order of <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a third embodiment of an interference wiper for the brushroll <NUM>. The third embodiment is substantially similar to the roller embodiment of <FIG>, save for the roller <NUM> comprising multiple rolling elements <NUM>. The multiple, shorter rolling elements <NUM> may be less likely to bend and deflect due to the pressure force of being in contact (i.e. interfering with) the brushroll <NUM>. Each rolling element <NUM> may be mounted for individual free rotation around axis Y. Bearings <NUM> are fixed in the ends of each rolling element <NUM>, and may be press fitted on individual shafts (not shown). The roller mount <NUM> is accordingly configured to fix multiple shafts in place.

<FIG> show another embodiment of a base <NUM> for the apparatus <NUM>. In this embodiment, the base <NUM> includes a rolling squeegee <NUM> that comprises a plurality of vanes <NUM>. The rolling squeegee <NUM> does not contact the brushroll <NUM>, and instead is configured to provide a suction seal between the suction nozzle <NUM> and the floor surface, while allowing large debris to enter the suction nozzle <NUM>, on a forward stroke of the base <NUM>, and wipes the floor to prevent water puddles on a backward stroke of the base <NUM>, as described in further detail below.

The rolling squeegee <NUM> can include at least one rolling element <NUM> mounted for unidirectional rotation around an axis Z, the rolling element <NUM> comprising the multiple vanes <NUM> extending radially, or substantially radially, relative to the axis Z. In one embodiment, the axis Z can be defined by a shaft <NUM> extending through the rolling element <NUM>. The shaft <NUM> is fixed at opposing ends thereof to a squeegee mount <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown, the rolling squeegee <NUM> includes multiple rolling elements <NUM>. Each rolling element <NUM> may be mounted for individual unidrectional rotation around axis Z. The roller mount <NUM> is accordingly configured to fix multiple shafts <NUM> in place. In other embodiments, a single rolling element <NUM> may be provided (see, for example, <FIG>) or more than two rolling elements <NUM> may be provided.

Various configurations for unidirectional rotation of the rolling element <NUM> are possible. In one embodiment, one-way rotational bearings (not shown) can be fixed in the ends of each rolling element <NUM>, and may be press fitted on the shafts <NUM>.

Regardless of the configuration of the unidirectional rotation, the roller mount <NUM> can be coupled to the nozzle cover <NUM>, and can be integrally formed with or otherwise attached to an inner, or brushroll-facing, side <NUM> of the nozzle cover <NUM> to position the rolling element <NUM> in front of the brushroll <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the roller mount <NUM> is a separately-formed piece that is secured to the nozzle cover <NUM>. Other attachments for the roller mount <NUM> are possible.

The vanes <NUM> can be pliant, i.e. flexible or resilient, such that the vanes <NUM> can bend readily according to the contour of the surface to be cleaned yet remain undeformed by normal use of the apparatus <NUM>. Optionally, the vanes <NUM> can be formed of a resilient polymeric material, such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a rubber copolymer such as nitrile butadiene rubber, or any material known in the art of sufficient rigidity to remain substantially undeformed during normal use of the apparatus <NUM>.

In the present embodiment, the rolling elements <NUM> are elongated and comprise a cylindrical inner body <NUM>, with the plurality of vanes <NUM> extending from the inner body <NUM>. The vanes <NUM> an extend radially, or substantially radially, to outer tips <NUM>, and the tips <NUM> can be angled or can curve about the axis Z so that at least a portion of one vane <NUM> is always in contact with the floor surface. The vanes <NUM> can be spaced from each other about the periphery of the inner body <NUM> to define debris gaps <NUM> between adjacent vanes <NUM>. The rolling element <NUM> can be a molded component, and the vanes <NUM> can be integrally molded with the inner body <NUM>.

Depending on the area to be cleaned, it is commonplace to make multiple, alternating forward and backward strokes of the base <NUM> during a cleaning operation. For a forward stroke, the base <NUM> is moved in a forward direction F over the floor surface S, for example via a user gripping the handle <NUM> (<FIG>) and pushing the entire apparatus <NUM> forward. For a backward stroke, the base <NUM> is moved in a rearward direction B over the floor surface S, for example via a user gripping the handle <NUM> and pulling the entire apparatus <NUM> backward.

With the rolling elements <NUM> mounted for unidirectional rotation, the rolling elements <NUM> rotate in a direction R3 about axis Z on a forward stroke of the base <NUM> due to contact between the vanes <NUM> and the floor surface, with direction R3 being the same as the brushroll rotation direction R1. The rotational axis Z of the rolling elements <NUM> is preferably parallel to the rotational axis X of the brushroll <NUM>.

On the forward stroke, the rolling elements <NUM> can roll over larger debris while maintaining a tight seal between the suction nozzle <NUM> and the floor surface. This prevents "plowing" of larger debris while maintaining maximum suction that is effective to remove small, fine debris from the surface in addition to the larger debris.

On a backward stroke, the rolling elements <NUM> stop rotating and the vanes <NUM> remain in a fixed orientation. Due to the design of the vanes <NUM>, at least a portion of at least one vane <NUM> is in contact with the floor surface at any orientation in which the rolling elements <NUM> stop. The vane or vanes <NUM> in contact with the floor surface on the backward stroke squeegees or wipes residual liquid from the surface to be cleaned so that it can be drawn into the recovery pathway via the suction nozzle <NUM>, thereby leaving a moisture and streak-free finish on the surface to be cleaned.

Referring to <FIG>, in the embodiment shown, the rolling squeegee <NUM> is provided in addition to the squeegee <NUM>, with the squeegee <NUM> mounted to the base housing <NUM> behind the rolling squeegee <NUM>, the brushroll <NUM>, and the brush chamber <NUM>. The squeegee <NUM> does not roll, but may flex back and forth on the forward and backward cleaning strokes. In other embodiments, a second squeegee <NUM> is not provided in addition to the rolling squeegee <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the rolling element <NUM> is disposed generally in front of and, optionally slightly below, the brushroll <NUM>. Other locations for the rolling element <NUM> in relation to the brushroll <NUM>, where the rolling element <NUM> does not interface with the brushroll <NUM>, are possible. There is an air gap <NUM> between the rolling element <NUM> and the rotating brushroll <NUM>. Preferably, the air gap <NUM> is small to minimize water leaks. For the embodiment shown, the air gap <NUM> may be on the order of <NUM> - <NUM>.

As can be seen in <FIG>, the rolling squeegee <NUM> is integrated with the nozzle cover <NUM>, such that when the nozzle cover <NUM> is removed, the rolling squeegee <NUM> is also removed. The squeegee <NUM> and cover <NUM> can forms a removable assembly, with the assembly being removable from the base housing <NUM> as a unit.

Other mounting arrangements for the squeegee <NUM> are possible. <FIG> shows an embodiment where the rolling squeegee <NUM> is integrated with the brushroll <NUM>, such that when the nozzle cover <NUM> is removed, the rolling squeegee <NUM> remains on the base housing <NUM>. <FIG> shows an embodiment where the rolling squeegee <NUM> is integrated with the base housing <NUM>, such that when the nozzle cover <NUM> and the brushroll <NUM> are removed, the rolling squeegee <NUM> remains on the base housing <NUM>.

<FIG> show another embodiment of the rolling squeegee <NUM> with at least one rolling element <NUM> mounted for unidirectional rotation around axis Z. In this embodiment, the rolling element <NUM> has a locking gear <NUM> that makes contact with a locking tooth <NUM> when the apparatus <NUM> is moved in a backward stroke to prevent rotation of the rolling element <NUM> about the axis Z.

The locking gear <NUM> can be provided on at least one, and optionally on each, end of the cylindrical inner body <NUM>, with a corresponding tooth <NUM> provided in a suitable location to engage the locking gear <NUM>.

The tooth <NUM> can be disposed within a slot <NUM> on the squeegee mount <NUM> that receives the portion of the body <NUM>, or other portion of the rolling element <NUM>, that includes the locking gear <NUM>. The slot <NUM> can be elongated, including being oval- or racetrack-shaped as shown, such that the rolling element <NUM> can translate linearly, e.g. move forward or backward, within the slot <NUM> to move the locking gear <NUM> into and out of engagement with the tooth <NUM>.

On a backward stroke, indicated by arrow B in <FIG>, friction between the vanes <NUM> and the floor surface pulls the rolling element <NUM> forward within the slot <NUM>, thereby bringing the locking gear <NUM> into engagement with the tooth <NUM>. The rolling element <NUM> is prevented from rotating and the vanes <NUM> remain in a fixed orientation.

On the forward stroke, indicated by arrow F in <FIG>, friction between the vanes <NUM> and the floor surface pulls the rolling element <NUM> backward in the slot <NUM>, thereby disengaging the locking gear <NUM> from the tooth <NUM>. The rolling element148 is free to rotate in direction R3 about axis Z, as shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> show yet another embodiment of a base <NUM> for the apparatus <NUM>. In this embodiment, the base <NUM> includes a cantilevered squeegee assembly <NUM> that can include at least one squeegee <NUM> having a first end <NUM> that is fixed or mounted and a second end <NUM> that is free to bend or flex about a flexion point P. The cantilevered squeegee assembly <NUM> does not contact the brushroll <NUM>, and instead is configured to lift up on a forward stroke of the base <NUM> to allow large debris to enter the suction nozzle <NUM>, and wipes the floor to prevent water puddles on a backward stroke of the base <NUM>, as described in further detail below.

The mounted end <NUM> of the squeegee <NUM> can be fixed to a squeegee mount <NUM>. The squeegee mount <NUM> is coupled to the nozzle cover <NUM>, and can be integrally formed with or otherwise attached to an inner, or brushroll-facing, side <NUM> of the nozzle cover <NUM> to position the squeegee <NUM> in a suitable location forward of the brushroll <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the squeegee mount <NUM> is a separately-formed piece that is secured to the nozzle cover <NUM> with one or more screws <NUM>. Other attachments for the squeegee mount <NUM> are possible. In other embodiments, the assembly <NUM> may be integrated with the brushroll <NUM> rather than the nozzle cover <NUM>, or may be integrated with the base housing <NUM> rather than either the brushroll <NUM> or the nozzle cover <NUM>.

The free end <NUM> of the squeegee <NUM> can include a leading side <NUM> and an opposing trailing side <NUM>, with the sides <NUM>, <NUM> meeting and terminating at a wiper edge <NUM>. A plurality of protrusions <NUM> are disposed on the leading side <NUM> and are spaced apart to define debris gaps <NUM> between adjacent protrusions <NUM>. The protrusions <NUM> can project orthogonally from the leading side <NUM> and have a shape configured to catch on the floor surface on a forward stroke of the base <NUM> and to release from the floor surface on a backward stroke of the base <NUM>.

The squeegee <NUM> can be pliant, i.e. flexible or resilient, in order to bend readily on the cleaning strokes, yet remain undeformed by normal use of the apparatus <NUM>. Optionally, the squeegee <NUM> can be formed of a rubber silicone material, and may have a hardness of <NUM>-<NUM> Shore A.

Referring to <FIG>, on the forward stroke, the protrusions <NUM> catch on the floor surface and the squeegee <NUM> bends at flexion point P. This lifts the wiper edge <NUM> up, and allows large debris to enter the suction nozzle <NUM> through the debris gaps <NUM> between adjacent protrusions <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the protrusions <NUM> can comprise triangular ribs having tips <NUM> that dig against the floor surface on a forward stroke of the base <NUM>, thereby bending the free end <NUM> of the squeegee <NUM> backward to lift the wiper edge <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, on a backward stroke, the protrusion <NUM> release from the floor surface, allowing the squeegee <NUM> to bends back and bring the wiper edge <NUM> down. The wiper edge <NUM> comes into contact with the floor surface and wipes residual liquid from the surface so that it can be drawn into the recovery pathway via the suction nozzle <NUM>, thereby leaving a moisture and streak-free finish on the surface to be cleaned.

It is noted that the deflection point P may be any point about which the free end <NUM> bends or flexes when subject to the forces of the forward and backward strokes of the base <NUM> during a cleaning operation. The bending of the squeegee <NUM> may depend on variables such as the type of floor surface and the speed of the base <NUM>, and so the degree of bending and the location of the deflection point P may vary.

Referring to <FIG>, in the embodiment shown, the cantilevered squeegee <NUM> is provided in addition to the squeegee <NUM>, with the squeegee <NUM> mounted to the base housing <NUM> behind the cantilevered squeegee <NUM>, the brushroll <NUM>, and the brush chamber <NUM>. The squeegee <NUM> does not pivot as the cantilevered squeegee <NUM> does, but may flex back and forth on the forward and backward cleaning strokes. In other embodiments, a second squeegee <NUM> is not provided in addition to the cantilevered squeegee <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the squeegee <NUM> is disposed generally in front of and, optionally slightly below, the brushroll <NUM>. Other locations for the squeegee <NUM> in relation to the brushroll <NUM>, where the squeegee <NUM> does not interface with the brushroll <NUM>, are possible. There is an air gap <NUM> between the squeegee <NUM> and the rotating brushroll <NUM>. Preferably, the air gap <NUM> is small to minimize water leaks. For the embodiment shown, the air gap <NUM> may be on the order of <NUM> - <NUM>.

<FIG> show yet another embodiment of a base <NUM> for the apparatus <NUM>. In this embodiment, the fluid distributor <NUM> comprises a porous spray bar <NUM>. The porous spray bar <NUM> delivers liquid to the brushroll <NUM> across the entire length of the spray bar <NUM> by "weeping" pressurized cleaning formula through pores, thereby providing an even wetting distribution to the brushroll. In some embodiments, the spray bar <NUM> interferes with a portion of the brushroll <NUM> in order to compress the microfiber <NUM> (or other agitation material) of the brushroll <NUM>, and forces the fibers to better distribute the liquid. This inference can also scrape off dirt and debris into the suction air flow of the suction nozzle <NUM>.

The porous spray bar <NUM> can be integrated with the nozzle cover <NUM> and forms a removable assembly <NUM>, such that when the nozzle cover <NUM> is removed, the porous spray bar <NUM> is also removed. The entire assembly <NUM>, e.g. the cover <NUM> and porous spray bar <NUM> is removable as a unit. <FIG> depicts the assembly <NUM> in a removed state. In the embodiment shown, the porous spray bar <NUM> is provided on an interior or brush-facing side <NUM> of the nozzle cover <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the porous spray bar <NUM> is positioned to deliver cleaning fluid to the brushroll <NUM>, thereby indirectly providing cleaning fluid to the floor surface. The porous spray bar <NUM> is elongated and comprises a tubular porous body <NUM> having opposing open ends <NUM> and defining an interior cavity <NUM> (<FIG>) therein. Cleaning fluid can flow into the cavity <NUM> via the open ends <NUM>, and flows outward through pores (not shown) in the body <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a cleaning fluid flow path through the cover <NUM>, with the flow path indicated by dashed line CF. The porous spray bar <NUM> is fed via channels <NUM> of the cover <NUM> which terminate in the connector ports <NUM> that couple with the spray connectors <NUM> on the base housing <NUM> when the cover <NUM> is installed on the base housing <NUM>. The spray bar <NUM> can include inlet ports <NUM> that are fitted over or inserted into the open ends <NUM> of the body <NUM> for connection with the cover channels <NUM>.

The porous body <NUM> can be manufactured from various materials such as plastic, ceramic or metal, and using various techniques. The material for the porous body <NUM> can be configured to release the cleaning fluid at a relatively constant flow rate in order to evenly distribute the treating agent onto the brushroll <NUM>. One preferred example is a body <NUM> made from sintered plastic, producing a sintered spray bar <NUM>.

One example of a suitable material for the porous body <NUM> is a porous plastic material. The porous plastic can have a suitable pore size in order to achieve a consistent, even flow rate of approximately <NUM> - <NUM>/min. The material can be configured with omnidirectional matrices of plastic that form an interconnected network of open-celled pores. The porous body <NUM> can be manufactured by sintering polymer pellets. Some specific examples of a suitable porous plastic are polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). More specifically, a suitable material is available from POREX® (PE or PP). Another example of a suitable material for the porous body <NUM> is a porous ceramic material made from alumina and/or silicon carbide (SiC).

In one embodiment, the porous body <NUM> can be selectively coated to precisely control the surface area where liquid delivery to the brushroll <NUM> is desired. The coating may be impervious to water, to liquid, and/or to the cleaning fluid that is dispensed by the porous spray bar <NUM> For example, a portion of the body <NUM> facing toward the brushroll <NUM> can be uncoated to allow fluid to weep through pores in this area of the body <NUM> and a portion of the body <NUM> facing away from the brushroll <NUM> can be coated to prevent fluid flow through pores in this area of the body <NUM>. In one example, <NUM>%-<NUM>% of outer surface area the body <NUM> can be coated, with the remainder uncoated to allow cleaning fluid to flow therethrough.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, in the embodiment shown, a blocking member <NUM> is disposed at a forward portion of the brush chamber <NUM> and faces but does not contact the rotating brushroll <NUM>. The blocking member <NUM> limits the gap at the front of the brush chamber <NUM> to minimize air and water leakage between the rotating brushroll <NUM> and the brush-facing side <NUM> of the nozzle cover <NUM>. The blocking member <NUM> can be integrated with the nozzle cover <NUM> and forms the removable assembly <NUM> along with the cover <NUM> and spray bar <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the blocking member <NUM> can be a strip that projects rearward toward, but does not contact, the brushroll <NUM>, and that is elongated laterally to extend substantially the length of the brushroll <NUM>.

A squeegee <NUM> is mounted to the base housing <NUM> behind the brushroll <NUM>, the brush chamber <NUM>, and the porous spray bar <NUM>. In other embodiments, the squeegee <NUM> is not provided.

Referring to <FIG>, the porous spray bar <NUM> interfaces with a portion of the rotating brushroll <NUM> to compresses the microfiber <NUM> (or other agitation material) of the brushroll <NUM>, and forces excess liquid out of the microfiber <NUM> before reaching the surface to be cleaned. The brush chamber <NUM> can have a suitable clearance such that only the porous spray bar <NUM> interfaces with the brushroll <NUM>, e.g. the nozzle cover <NUM> and blocking member <NUM> do not interface with the brushroll <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the porous spray bar <NUM> is positioned to interfere with the brushroll at an approximately <NUM> o'clock position, relative to the circumference of the brushroll <NUM>. In this position, the porous spray bar <NUM> compresses the top side of the brushroll <NUM>. Other locations for the porous spray bar <NUM> in relation to the brushroll <NUM>, where the porous spray bar <NUM> is configured to interface with a portion of the brushroll <NUM>, are possible. For example, <FIG> shows another location of the porous spray bar <NUM> in phantom line, where the porous spray bar <NUM> is positioned to interfere with the brushroll at an approximately <NUM> o'clock position, and interfaces with an upper front portion of the brushroll <NUM>.

<FIG> show yet another embodiment of a base <NUM> for the apparatus <NUM> having the porous spray bar <NUM>. In this embodiment, the porous spray bar <NUM> is positioned rear of the brushroll <NUM>, for example at an approximately <NUM> to <NUM> o'clock position, inclusive, as shown in <FIG>, and interferes with an upper rear portion of the brushroll <NUM>. As such, the location of fluid delivery to the brushroll <NUM> is closer to the suction duct <NUM>, and given the direction of rotation R1, just after an inlet <NUM> to the suction duct <NUM>.

The porous spray bar <NUM> is supported by an insert <NUM>, and the insert <NUM> can be integrated with the nozzle cover <NUM> to form a removable assembly <NUM>, such that when the nozzle cover <NUM> is removed, the porous spray bar <NUM> and insert <NUM> are also removed. The entire assembly <NUM> is removable as a unit. <FIG> depicts the assembly <NUM> in a removed state.

The porous spray bar <NUM> can have a semi-circular body manufactured from any of the materials or according to any of the methods disclosed for the previous embodiment, including, but not limited to, having a polymeric sintered body for a sintered spray bar <NUM>. The spray bar can be secured to the insert <NUM> using various means, such as by using glue or another adhesive.

The insert <NUM> includes an interior fluid channel <NUM>, at least one inlet <NUM> supplied with cleaning fluid via the pump <NUM> (<FIG>) or other flow control system of the apparatus <NUM>, and at least one outlet which is covered or otherwise closed by the spray bar <NUM>, such that fluid in the channel <NUM> flows out of the insert <NUM> through the spray bar <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the insert <NUM> has a single elongated slot <NUM> that is covered or otherwise closed by the spray bar <NUM>. Cleaning fluid can flow into the channel <NUM> via the inlet <NUM>, and flows outward through pores (not shown) in the spray bar <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the insert <NUM> includes a front wall <NUM>, a back wall <NUM>, a top wall <NUM>, and a bottom wall <NUM> forming the channel <NUM>. The lateral ends of the walls <NUM>-<NUM> can be closed by a portion of the nozzle cover <NUM> or by additional walls (not shown), such that the channel <NUM> is sealed, save for the inlet <NUM> and the slot <NUM>. The walls <NUM>-<NUM> joined together in a generally trapezoidal shape, although other cross-sectional configurations for the insert <NUM> are possible.

The front wall <NUM> of the insert <NUM> faces the brushroll <NUM> and supports the spray bar <NUM>. The front wall <NUM> can curve around, but not interfere with, a portion of the brushroll <NUM>, and may generally follow the curvature of the brush-facing side <NUM> of the nozzle cover <NUM>. The spray bar <NUM> projects outwardly from the front wall <NUM>, and interferes with the brushroll <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> can project from the back wall <NUM>, or from another suitable location on the insert <NUM>.

The insert <NUM> blocks off part of the airflow path behind the brushroll <NUM> to minimize the open area where liquid can fling off the brushroll <NUM> and accumulate. For example, the insert <NUM> can be positioned at an upper side of the duct <NUM>, with the top wall <NUM> fitted tightly against the top wall <NUM> of the nozzle cover <NUM>. This reduces the cross-sectional area of the inlet <NUM> to the duct <NUM> and increases the air velocity through the duct <NUM> for more powerful liquid recovery.

<FIG> shows a portion of a cleaning fluid flow path through the base <NUM>, with the flow path indicated by dashed line CF. The insert <NUM> is fed via the inlet <NUM>, which can couple with a spray connector port (not show. In the embodiment shown, an air inlet <NUM> of the duct <NUM> is defined between a lower duct wall <NUM> and the bottom wall <NUM> of the insert <NUM>, which is disposed below the top wall <NUM> of the nozzle cover <NUM> on the base housing <NUM> when the cover <NUM> is installed on the base housing <NUM>. Pressurized cleaning fluid weeps through the pores of the spray bar <NUM> to deliver cleaning fluid to the upper rear portion of the brushroll <NUM> across the entire length of the spray bar, thereby providing an even wetting distribution to the brushroll <NUM>. The spray bar <NUM> interferes with the upper rear portion of the brushroll <NUM> in order to compress the microfiber <NUM> (or other agitation material) in this area, and force the fibers to better distribute the cleaning fluid. This inference can also scrape off dirt and debris into the suction air flow of the suction nozzle <NUM>.

<FIG> show still another embodiment of a base <NUM> for the apparatus <NUM> having the porous spray bar <NUM>. In this embodiment, the porous spray bar <NUM> is positioned rear of the brushroll <NUM>, for example at an approximately <NUM> to <NUM> o'clock position, inclusive, as shown in <FIG>, and interferes with a lower rear portion of the brushroll <NUM>. As such, the location of fluid delivery to the brushroll <NUM> is closer to the suction duct <NUM>, and given the direction of rotation R1, just before the air inlet <NUM> to the suction duct <NUM>.

The porous spray bar <NUM> is supported by an insert <NUM>, and the insert <NUM> can be positioned at a lower side of the duct <NUM>, for example with a bottom <NUM> of the insert <NUM> fitted tightly against the bottom wall <NUM> of the duct <NUM>. The insert <NUM> includes an interior fluid channel (not shown), at least one inlet <NUM> supplied with cleaning fluid via the pump <NUM> (<FIG>) or other flow control system of the apparatus <NUM>, and at least one outlet which is covered or otherwise closed by the spray bar <NUM>, such that fluid flows out of the insert <NUM> through the spray bar <NUM>.

The insert <NUM> can be integrated with the base housing <NUM>, such that when the nozzle cover <NUM> and the brushroll <NUM> are removed, the spray bar <NUM> and insert <NUM> remain on the base housing <NUM>. <FIG> depicts the base housing <NUM> and nozzle cover <NUM> in phantom line.

Referring to <FIG>, the insert <NUM> can have a front wall <NUM> that can define a rear edge <NUM> of the opening into the suction nozzle <NUM>. A portion of the insert <NUM> can project rearwardly into the duct <NUM>. The spray bar <NUM> projects outwardly from the front wall <NUM>, and interferes with the brushroll <NUM>. In other embodiments, the spray bar <NUM> does not contact the brushroll <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a portion of a cleaning fluid flow path through the base <NUM>, with the flow path indicated by dashed line CF. Pressurized cleaning fluid weeps through the pores of the spray bar <NUM> to deliver cleaning fluid to the lower rear portion of the brushroll <NUM> across the entire length of the spray bar <NUM>, thereby providing an even wetting distribution to the brushroll <NUM>. With the spray bar <NUM> so positioned, application of the cleaning fluid to the brushroll <NUM> occurs just before the air inlet <NUM>, e.g. the area where suction air flow is the strongest. As the brushroll <NUM> rotates, centrifugal forces act on the microfiber nap of the brushroll <NUM> causing the microfibers to extend radially outwardly and shed liquid and debris. The "flinging" action of the rotating brushroll <NUM> combined with the suction air flow removes most of the dirty liquid and debris from the brushroll <NUM>. In other words, the brushroll <NUM> is rinsed off. After this rinsing, exposure to the suction air flow and the rotational speed of brushroll <NUM> can partially dry the brushroll. The brushroll <NUM> remains damp enough to clean the floor but does not over-wet or leave streaks on the floor.

<FIG> show still another embodiment of a base <NUM> for the apparatus <NUM> having a fender <NUM> surrounding the brushroll <NUM>. The fender <NUM> includes a fender wall <NUM> that extends partially around the outer circumference of the brushroll <NUM>. The fluid distributor <NUM> dispenses cleaning fluid to the brushroll <NUM> through a slot <NUM> in the fender wall <NUM>. In this embodiment, the fluid distributor <NUM> comprises a porous spray bar <NUM> as described with respect to <FIG>. Other fluid distributors are possible.

The fender <NUM> helps to confine liquid that is dispensed onto and/or flung off the brushroll <NUM> to the area within the fender <NUM>. The liquid inside the fender <NUM> can be absorbed by the microfiber nap of the brushroll <NUM>, wetting the brushroll <NUM> evenly to wipe over the floor at the open lower side of the fender <NUM>.

The fender <NUM> can be integrated with the brushroll <NUM> and forms an assembly <NUM>, with the assembly <NUM> being removable from the base housing <NUM> as a unit. When the nozzle cover <NUM> is removed, the fender <NUM> and brushroll <NUM> remain on the base <NUM>. <FIG> depicts the assembly <NUM> in a removed state. When removed, the brushroll <NUM> can be separated from the fender <NUM>. This permits the brushroll <NUM> and fender <NUM> to be thoroughly cleaned, and permits either component to be replaced individually, rather than having to replace the entire assembly <NUM> when one component reaches the end of its useful life. As depicted in <FIG>, the fender <NUM> can be used with a hybrid brushroll as described herein, or with other types of brushrolls.

The fender wall <NUM> terminates in a front edge <NUM> on a front side of the brushroll <NUM> and terminates in a rear edge <NUM> on a rear side of the brushroll <NUM> to expose the lower portion of the brushroll <NUM> for contact with the surface to be cleaned. As can be seen in <FIG>, the rear edge <NUM> can be higher than the front edge <NUM> to expose a greater portion of the brushroll <NUM> at its rear side, toward the duct <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the air inlet <NUM> of the duct <NUM> is defined between the rear edge <NUM> of the fender <NUM> and the lower wall <NUM> of the duct <NUM>.

The fender <NUM> can include an end cap <NUM> at a first end thereof, and which can be integrally formed with or otherwise attached to the fender wall <NUM> such that the end cap <NUM> is removable from the brushroll <NUM> with the fender wall <NUM>. To mount the fender <NUM> to the brushroll <NUM>, an outer race of the bearing <NUM> (<FIG>) is fixed in the end cap <NUM>.

The assembly <NUM> can be secured in the brush chamber <NUM> by a latch. Various configurations for the latch are possible. For example, the latch may be substantially similar to the latch described above with respect to <FIG>, with a portion of the latch provided on the end cap <NUM> and a mating portion provided in the brush chamber <NUM>.

The fender <NUM> can include a handle <NUM> to aid in removing the assembly <NUM> from the brush chamber <NUM>. The handle <NUM> can optionally include indents <NUM> in the sides of the handle <NUM> to assist in gripping the handle <NUM> to lift the assembly <NUM>. The indents <NUM> can, for example, by pinched between the thumb and forefinger of the user.

To accommodate the drive coupling between the driven end of the brushroll <NUM> and drive assembly <NUM> (<FIG>), the fender <NUM> can include a cap ring <NUM> at a second end thereof. The cap ring <NUM> can be integrally formed with or otherwise attached to the fender wall <NUM> such that the cap ring <NUM> is removable from the brushroll <NUM> with the fender wall <NUM>. The cap ring <NUM> can have a larger inner diameter than an outer diameter of the drive end cap <NUM>.

To support the second end of the fender <NUM>, the cap ring <NUM> is fitted over a portion of the drive assembly <NUM>, such as the hub <NUM> (<FIG>). Like the embodiment discussed above with respect to <FIG>, the cap ring <NUM> can be chamfered for easy lead-in when installing the assembly <NUM> in the brush chamber <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the fender <NUM> can have a suitable clearance with the brushroll <NUM> such that the fender wall <NUM> does not contact the brushroll <NUM>. The nozzle cover <NUM> can provide a suitable clearance for the fender <NUM> such that the fender wall <NUM> does not contact the brush-facing side <NUM> of the nozzle cover <NUM>.

The spray bar <NUM> dispenses cleaning fluid to the brushroll <NUM> through the slot <NUM> in the fender wall <NUM>. The spray bar <NUM> can be aligned with and can project at least partially through the slot <NUM> to ensure that cleaning fluid reaches the brushroll <NUM>, rather than leaking out over the outer side of the fender wall <NUM>.

Through the slot <NUM>, the porous spray bar <NUM> can interface with a portion of the rotating brushroll <NUM> to compresses the microfiber <NUM> (or other agitation material) of the brushroll <NUM>, and forces excess liquid out of the microfiber <NUM> before reaching the surface to be cleaned. In other embodiments, the spray bar <NUM> does not contact the brushroll <NUM>.

<FIG> show yet another embodiment of a base <NUM> for the apparatus <NUM> having a restricted air flow path for the suction duct <NUM> to increase air velocity within the brush chamber <NUM> and an angled squeegee <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown, an inlet <NUM> of the duct <NUM> is defined between a lower duct wall <NUM> and an upper duct wall <NUM> which is formed by a bottom or underside of the nozzle cover <NUM>. The duct <NUM> can include a narrowed section <NUM> downstream of the inlet <NUM>. The narrowed section <NUM> can be formed by a portion of the upper duct wall <NUM> that converges toward, and then diverges away from, the lower duct wall <NUM>. Alternatively or additionally, the narrowed section <NUM> can be formed by a portion of the lower duct wall <NUM> that converges toward, and then diverges away from, the upper duct wall <NUM>.

The angled squeegee <NUM> can be mounted to the base housing <NUM> behind the brushroll <NUM> and the brush chamber <NUM> and is configured to contact the surface as the base <NUM> moves across the surface to be cleaned. The squeegee <NUM> wipes residual liquid from the surface to be cleaned so that it can be drawn into the recovery pathway via the suction nozzle <NUM>, thereby leaving a moisture and streak-free finish on the surface to be cleaned.

The angled squeegee <NUM> is disposed obliquely to the surface to be cleaned, or at an incline rising toward the suction duct <NUM>. The squeegee <NUM> can, in one embodiment, project forwardly from the lower duct wall <NUM>, and may project under a rear portion of the brushroll <NUM>. The angled squeegee <NUM> does not contact the brushroll <NUM>, and instead is configured to provide a suction seal between the suction nozzle <NUM> and the floor surface, while allowing large debris to enter the suction nozzle <NUM>, on a forward stroke of the base <NUM>, and wipes the floor to prevent water puddles on a backward stroke of the base <NUM>.

The squeegee <NUM> is pliant, i.e. flexible or resilient, in order to bend readily according to the contour of the surface to be cleaned yet remain undeformed by normal use of the apparatus <NUM>, and may be formed of any of the materials disclosed above with respect to squeegee <NUM> (<FIG>).

In this embodiment, the fluid distributor <NUM> comprises a manifold <NUM> having multiple outlets <NUM> that distribute cleaning fluid to the brushroll <NUM>. The manifold <NUM> is positioned rear of the brushroll <NUM>, for example at an approximately <NUM> to <NUM> o'clock position, inclusive, as shown in <FIG>. As such, the location of fluid delivery to the brushroll <NUM> is closer to the suction duct <NUM>, and given the direction of rotation R1, just after the inlet <NUM> to the suction duct <NUM>. The manifold <NUM> is therefore disposed above the inlet <NUM>, and the squeegee is disposed below the inlet <NUM>.

The manifold <NUM> can be integrated with the nozzle cover <NUM> and forms a removable assembly <NUM>, such that when the nozzle cover <NUM> is removed, the manifold <NUM> is also removed. The entire assembly <NUM> is removable as a unit. <FIG> depicts the assembly <NUM> in a removed state. In the embodiment shown, the manifold <NUM> is provided on an interior or brush-facing side <NUM> of the nozzle cover <NUM>.

The manifold <NUM> can include inlet ports <NUM>, one of which is visible in <FIG>, that feed cleaning fluid to the outlets <NUM> via an interior supply channel <NUM> of the manifold <NUM>. A flow path, indicated by dashed line CF, can fluidly couple the inlet ports <NUM> with the connector ports <NUM> (<FIG>) that couple with the spray connectors <NUM> on the base housing <NUM> when the cover <NUM> is installed on the base housing <NUM>. The manifold <NUM> does not engage or interfere with the brushroll <NUM>. Other fluid distributors are possible, including a sintered spray bar.

To the extent not already described, the different features and structures of the various embodiments of the invention, may be used in combination with each other as desired, or may be used separately. That one surface cleaning apparatus is illustrated herein as having all of these features does not mean that all of these features must be used in combination, but rather done so here for brevity of description. Furthermore, while the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> shown herein has an upright configuration, the surface cleaning apparatus can be configured as a canister or portable unit. For example, in a canister arrangement, foot components such as the suction nozzle and brushroll can be provided on a cleaning head coupled with a canister unit. Still further, the surface cleaning apparatus can additionally have steam delivery capability. Thus, the various features of the different embodiments may be mixed and matched in various vacuum cleaner configurations as desired to form new embodiments, whether or not the new embodiments are expressly described.

The above description relates to general and specific embodiments of the disclosure. However, various alterations and changes can be made without departing from the broader aspects of the disclosure as defined in the appended claims, which are to be interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent law including the doctrine of equivalents. As such, this disclosure is presented for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted as an exhaustive description of all embodiments of the disclosure or to limit the scope of the claims to the specific elements illustrated or described in connection with these embodiments. Any reference to elements in the singular, for example, using the articles "a," "an," "the," or "said," is not to be construed as limiting the element to the singular.

Claim 1:
A surface cleaning apparatus (<NUM>) comprising:
a base (<NUM>) comprising a base housing (<NUM>) at least partially forming a brush chamber (<NUM>);
a nozzle cover (<NUM>) coupled with the base housing (<NUM>), the nozzle cover (<NUM>) closing the brush chamber (<NUM>);
a brushroll/wiper assembly (<NUM>) coupled with the base housing (<NUM>) and comprising:
a brushroll (<NUM>) positioned within the brush chamber (<NUM>); and
a wiper (<NUM>) integrated with the brushroll (<NUM>) and positioned to interfere with the brushroll (<NUM>); and
a fluid distributor (<NUM>) positioned to deliver cleaning fluid onto the brushroll (<NUM>);
wherein the nozzle cover (<NUM>) is removable from the base housing (<NUM>) without removing the brushroll/wiper assembly (<NUM>) from the base housing (<NUM>).