Patent Description:
Known surface treatment tools, such as scrubber dryer tools, often have a surface treatment head with a movable surface treatment element (e.g. a brush, cleaning pad, sponge, etc.) which rotates or spins to clean a surface. When using such known surface treatment cleaners, it is often difficult or impossible to clean in corners or hard to reach areas of surfaces to be treated. This results in incomplete/ineffective cleaning of a surface.

Furthermore, known surface treatment heads are typically bulky, which makes it difficult to clean in hard to reach areas such as around table or chair legs. This results in incomplete/ineffective cleaning of a surface.

<CIT> discloses a mop with ball and socket connection between handle and holder. <CIT> discloses an apparatus for preparing a surface that includes an elongated handle and a head portion removably securable to the elongated handle via a pivot joint. <CIT> discloses a hard floor nozzle with a wiper head and a joint ball that is received on the wiper head so as to be pivotable by <NUM>° about an axis that is perpendicular to the plane of action of the wiper head.

The present invention seeks to overcome, or at least mitigate, one or more problems of the prior art.

Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a surface treatment tool as claimed in the appended claims.

According to a first aspect of the disclosure, a surface treatment head for a surface treatment tool is provided, the surface treatment head comprising:.

Having a middle portion of the rear edge project rearwards of the first and second ends of the rear edge with respect to the treatment direction increases the area of the movable surface treatment element whilst maintaining a desired geometry at the sides/front edge of the surface treatment head. This increase in area of the movable surface treatment element results in a greater treatment area when it engages a surface, which leads to more efficient treatment (e.g. cleaning) of the surface.

For example, in the case where the surface treatment head forms part of a scrubber dryer and comprises a suction region for removing waste water which is typically curved/angled rearwards, having the middle portion of the rear edge project rearwards of the first and second ends of the rear edge ensures that the movable surface treatment element is shaped to fill, at least partially, a void created by a curved/angled front edge of the suction region, which reduces wasted space on the surface treatment head.

Optionally, the movable surface treatment element comprises a width transverse to the treatment direction and a depth along the treatment direction, wherein the depth varies across the width of the movable surface treatment element such that the depth is larger in a middle portion of the movable treatment element and smaller towards first and second ends of the movable treatment element.

Having a larger depth in the middle portion and a smaller depth towards the first and second ends facilitates greater manoeuvrability of the first and second ends (which are more likely to be moved into confined spaces such as corners or areas around furniture) whilst efficiently treating a larger area in the middle portion.

Optionally, a front edge of the movable surface treatment element with respect to the treatment direction comprises a first end, a second end and a middle portion located between the first and second ends, wherein the middle portion is substantially aligned with the first and second ends in the treatment direction, or wherein the middle portion projects forwards of the first and second ends in the treatment direction.

Having a front edge with a middle portion that is aligned with the first and second ends (i.e. the front edge is a straight front edge extending between the first and second ends) or with a middle portion that projects forwards of the first and second ends, facilitates a greater depth of the middle portion of the movable surface treatment element and a smaller depth towards the first and second ends, which provides a good trade-off between manoeuvrability of the first and second ends and efficient treatment of a larger area, as outlined above.

Furthermore, having a front edge with a middle portion that is aligned with the first and second ends (i.e. a straight front edge) facilitates treatment of the edges of a surface, e.g. adjacent walls.

Optionally, a front edge of the movable surface treatment element with respect to the treatment direction comprises a first end, a second end and a middle portion located between the first and second ends, wherein the first and second ends of the front edge project forward of the middle portion of the front edge in the treatment direction of the surface treatment head.

Having first and second ends of the front edge which project forward of the middle portion of the front edge in a treatment direction of the surface treatment head facilitates cleaning of hard to reach areas and partial surrounding of objects such as table legs, thereby providing effecting cleaning of an entire floor area.

In some embodiments, the surface treatment head comprises a first end, a second end and a middle portion located between the first and second ends, wherein the first and second ends project forward of the middle portion in the treatment direction. For example, the surface treatment head may comprise a shroud, chassis and/or body wherein the shroud, chassis and/or body comprises a first end, a second end and a middle portion located between the first and second ends, wherein the first and second ends project forward of the middle portion in the treatment direction.

In some embodiments an overall shape of the surface treatment head corresponds to the shape of the surface treatment element.

Having first and second ends which project forward of the middle portion in a treatment direction of the surface treatment head means that dirt and/or waste fluid is directed towards the middle portion as the surface treatment head is moved, facilitating collection of dirt and/or waste fluid. For example, in the case where the surface treatment head forms part of a scrubber dryer and comprises a suction region for removing waste water, directing waste water towards the middle portion may facilitate uptake of waste water and an improved drying performance.

This shape of surface treatment head also facilitates cleaning of hard to reach areas and partial surrounding of objects such as table legs, thereby providing effecting cleaning of an entire floor area.

Optionally, the movable surface treatment element comprises a front edge and a side wall extending from the front edge towards the rear edge at an angle to the front edge, optionally such that a corner is formed between the front edge and the side wall. This arrangement has been found to facilitate treatment of corners and other hard to reach areas.

In some embodiments, the moveable surface treatment head and/or the surface treatment head comprises a front edge, a rear edge, a first side wall extending between the front and rear edges at a first side of the moveable surface treatment head and/or the surface treatment head, and/or a second side wall extending between the front and rear edges at a second side of the moveable surface treatment head and/or the surface treatment head.

In some embodiments, the first side wall is arranged to extend at an angle to the front edge. In some embodiments, the second side wall is arranged to extend at an angle to the front edge. In this way, a corner defined by the front edge and the respective side wall is provided. This angled arrangement has been found to facilitate treatment of corners and other hard to reach areas.

For example, the first side wall may extend from the front edge at an angle of between <NUM>° and <NUM>°, for example <NUM>° to <NUM>°, for example <NUM>°, for example <NUM>°. For example, the second side wall may extend from the front edge at an angle of in the range of <NUM>° to <NUM>°, for example <NUM>° to <NUM>°, for example and obtuse angle, e.g. <NUM>°, for example <NUM>°.

In some embodiments, the front edge has a length which is less than a length of the rear edge. In this way, provision of a corner between the front edge and side walls is facilitated.

Optionally, the height of the surface treatment head in a region proximal the first end of the moveable treatment element and/or in a region proximal the second end of the movable treatment element is in the range of <NUM> to <NUM>, optionally <NUM> to <NUM>, optionally in the range of <NUM> to <NUM>.

Such a height is low in comparison to typical cleaning heads, which allows the first and/or second ends of the moveable treatment element to fit under furniture such as shelving for cleaning. This may be particularly useful for environments such as supermarkets, which include large amounts of low-level shelving elements, and in which hygiene is of particular concern. In combination with the shape of the surface treatment head, in which the first and second ends project forward of the middle portion in a treatment direction of the surface treatment head, having a low profile in the region of the first and/or second ends further facilitates cleaning of hard to reach areas, thereby providing effective cleaning of the entire floor area.

Optionally, the height of the surface treatment head decreases from the middle portion to the first and/or second ends.

Optionally, the movable surface treatment element comprises at least a portion comprising a curved shaped profile in plan view.

Optionally, the movable surface treatment element comprises a rear edge comprising a curved shaped profile in plan view.

Optionally, the movable surface treatment element comprises a front edge comprising a curved shaped profile in plan view.

Optionally, the or each curved shaped profile comprises a substantially arc shaped profile in plan view.

Optionally, at least a portion of the or each curved shaped profile comprises an arc of radius in the range of <NUM> to <NUM>, optionally in the range of <NUM> to <NUM>, or optionally less than or equal to <NUM>, optionally in the range of <NUM> to <NUM>, optionally in the range of <NUM> to <NUM>.

Such a curved shaped profile has been found to provide good cleaning performance, good manoeuvrability of the surface treatment head, and relatively compact head size for cleaning confined areas and compact storage.

Optionally, the movable surface treatment element comprises:.

Optionally, the movable surface treatment element comprises at least a portion comprising a substantially V-shaped profile in plan view.

Optionally, the movable surface treatment element comprises a rear edge comprising a substantially V-shaped profile in plan view.

Optionally, the movable surface treatment element comprises a front edge comprising a substantially V-shaped profile in plan view.

Optionally, the or each substantially V-shaped profile comprises a central angle in the range <NUM> to less than <NUM> degrees, optionally in the range of <NUM> to <NUM> degrees.

Such a V-shaped profile has been found to provide good cleaning performance, good manoeuvrability of the surface treatment head, and relatively compact head size for cleaning confined areas and compact storage. Optionally the central angle is in the range <NUM> to <NUM> degrees, optionally in the range <NUM> to <NUM> degrees.

Optionally, the moveable surface treatment element comprises a front edge with respect to the treatment direction and a rear edge with respect to the treatment direction, and wherein both the front edge and the rear edge are at least partially curved or V-shaped.

Optionally, the motor of the driving means is located at the middle portion of the surface treatment head.

Since the motor will add height to the surface treatment head, locating the motor at the middle portion facilitates a lower height of the surface treatment head at the first and second ends. This allows the first and/or second end to fit under small gaps beneath furniture (e.g. shelving elements or the like).

Optionally, the movable surface treatment element is elongate.

Having an elongate surface treatment element (e.g. in which a width of the surface treatment element (measured transverse to the treatment direction) is greater than the depth of the surface treatment element (measured along the treatment direction) or vice versa) allows a wide area to be cleaned when moving the surface treatment head in a direction perpendicular to the long axis of the elongate movable surface treatment element, but results in a smaller overall head size, which allows the surface treatment head to reach smaller spaces and which is less bulky for storage.

Optionally, the movable surface treatment element and/or the surface treatment head comprises a width transverse to a treatment direction of the surface treatment tool, wherein the width is in the range of <NUM> to <NUM>.

Such a width has been found to provide a good trade-off between reducing the time to clean an area (by having a larger width) and improving the manoeuvrability/allowing the surface treatment head to fit into confined areas (by having a smaller width). In some embodiments, the width extends in a direction perpendicular to the long axis of the elongate moveable surface treatment tool. Optionally the width is in the range <NUM> to <NUM>, optionally in the range <NUM> to <NUM>.

Optionally, the surface treatment head comprises a depth parallel to a treatment direction of the surface treatment tool, wherein the depth is in the range of <NUM> to <NUM>.

Optionally, the first end of the surface treatment head defines a first straight edge and the second end of the surface treatment head defines a second straight edge.

Optionally, the first and second straight edges are arranged at an oblique angle to one another.

Optionally, a first line collinear with the first straight edge intersects a second line collinear with the second straight edge at a point forward of the movable surface treatment element in the treatment direction of the surface treatment head.

Optionally, the driving means comprises an eccentric drive mechanism, wherein the motor is coupled to the moveable surface treatment element via the eccentric drive mechanism so that the moveable surface treatment element engages a surface to be treated in a cyclical motion such that a front edge of the moveable surface treatment element faces forwards with respect to the treatment direction throughout the cyclical motion.

Typically, moveable surface treatment elements of cleaning tools are configured to engage a surface to be treated in a rotating motion, which results in a circular treatment area. Such cleaning tools are therefore unable to clean in corners of floors/other surfaces or other hard to reach areas such as regions around table/chair legs to be treated. Having a driving means configured to drive the movable surface treatment element in a cyclical motion (e.g. a repeating or back-and-forth motion) allows the moveable surface treatment element to be shaped to be non-circular (e.g. rectangular, triangular, arc-shaped, V-shaped or U-shaped treatment areas), which allows corners to be cleaned more easily. This also allows the surface treatment head and moveable surface treatment element to be shaped for maximum manoeuvrability and to be appropriately sized for optimal cleaning and storage purposes.

Optionally, the eccentric drive mechanism is configured to drive the moveable surface treatment element so that each point on the moveable surface treatment element moves along a circular path, wherein the circular paths each have a unique centre point but a common radius dimension.

Such a motion has been found to be particularly effective for cleaning a surface with a moveable surface treatment element.

In exemplary embodiments, the cyclical motion comprises an oscillating motion.

Optionally, the surface treatment head further comprises a cleaning liquid outlet configured to introduce cleaning liquid to a surface to be treated.

Having a cleaning liquid outlet configured to introduce cleaning liquid to a surface to be treated increases the cleaning performance of the surface treatment head (e.g. by including water, soaps, detergents or antibacterial/antiviral agents). Furthermore, such a cleaning liquid outlet allows cleaning liquid to be applied via the surface treatment head, rather than a user having to apply cleaning liquid to a surface independently.

In exemplary embodiments, the cleaning liquid outlet is provided proximal the movable surface treatment element.

Providing the cleaning liquid outlet proximal the moveable surface treatment element ensures that cleaning fluid introduced to a surface via the cleaning liquid outlet is in close proximity to the movable surface treatment element, which facilitates ease of use.

In exemplary embodiments, the cleaning liquid outlet is configured to apply cleaning liquid forward of the movable surface treatment element in a treatment direction of the surface treatment head.

Providing the cleaning liquid outlet such that it is configured to apply cleaning fluid forward of the moveable surface treatment element in a treatment direction of the surface treatment head ensures that the liquid is applied to an area of the surface which is likely to be acted on by the moveable surface treatment element, so that the moveable surface treatment element will pass over a surface after cleaning fluid has been introduced. This increases the cleaning performance of the surface treatment head and ease of use.

Optionally, the surface treatment head further comprises a suction region configured to suck fluid from a surface to be treated.

Having a suction region configured to suck fluid from a surface to be treated allows waste water (e.g. cleaning fluid which has been introduced to a surface, acted on by the moveable surface treatment element and thus soiled) to be removed from a surface. This results in a cleaner surface and a reduced drying time, which allows the surface to be used (e.g. walked over) more quickly after cleaning.

In exemplary embodiments, the suction region is provided proximal the movable surface treatment element; optionally, wherein the suction region is provided behind the movable surface treatment element in a treatment direction of the surface treatment head.

In some embodiments, the moveable surface treatment element is used to act on any fluid on a surface, therefore providing the suction region proximal the movable surface treatment element facilitates removal of such fluid from the surface.

Providing the suction region behind the movable surface treatment element in a treatment direction of the surface treatment head facilitates removal of waste water from the surface as the surface treatment head is passed over the surface to be treated.

In exemplary embodiments, the suction region is defined by one or more resilient guide members. Optionally, the suction region is defined by a first and second resilient guide member Optionally, at least a portion of a profile of the one or more resilient guide members is complementary to a profile of the movable surface treatment element Optionally, a first portion of the one or more resilient guide members is provided proximal the movable surface treatment element, and a second portion of the one or more resilient guide members is provided distal the movable surface treatment element. Optionally, the one or more resilient guide members comprise at least one opening to permit fluid to enter said suction region and/or at least one groove or corrugation configured to form an opening in use to permit fluid to enter said suction region when the surface treatment head is moved in a treatment direction.

Such a resilient guide member arrangement has been found to be particularly effective for guiding and removing fluid from a surface.

In exemplary embodiments, the at least one opening and/or at least one groove or corrugation is provided by a portion of the one or more resilient guide member proximal the moveable surface treatment element.

Optionally, the suction region comprises a first end, a second end and a middle portion located between the first and second ends, wherein the first and second ends of the suction region project forward of the middle portion of the suction region in the treatment direction of the surface treatment head.

Having first and second ends of the suction region which project forward of the middle portion of the suction region in the treatment direction of the surface treatment head means that waste fluid is directed towards the middle portion as the surface treatment head is moved in the treatment direction, facilitating uptake of waste fluid and an improved drying performance.

In a second aspect of the disclosure, a surface treatment tool is provided comprising a surface treatment head as disclosed herein, coupled to an elongate support member.

Optionally, the elongate support member is coupled to the surface treatment head via a coupling, wherein the coupling comprises a first rotational axis and a second rotational axis arranged perpendicular to the first rotational axis; optionally, wherein the first rotational axis intersects the second rotational axis.

Such a coupling allows the elongate support member to move in a plurality directions with respect to the surface treatment head, and to transmit torque, about a third axis perpendicular to the first and second axes, from the elongate support member to the surface treatment head. This allows the surface treatment head to be easily manoeuvred by a user via movement or rotation of the elongate support member.

In exemplary embodiments, the elongate support member is coupled to the surface treatment head via a resilient coupling such as a spring or rubber cylinder.

Such a coupling allows the elongate support member to move in all directions with respect to the surface treatment head. This allows the surface treatment head to be easily manoeuvred by a user via pivoting movement or rotation of the elongate support member.

Optionally, the surface treatment tool comprising a power source to power the motor; optionally, wherein the power source comprises an electrical energy storage device (e.g. a battery) provided by or on the surface treatment tool.

Having a power source (e.g. battery) by or on the surface treatment tool removes the need for a cable to connect the tool to a mains electricity supply. This increases the range of surfaces that can be treated (e.g. those with no close mains electricity supply) and increases manoeuvrability (e.g. by not having to clean around a cable).

In exemplary embodiments, the surface treatment head further comprises a cleaning liquid outlet configured to introduce cleaning liquid to a surface to be treated, wherein the surface treatment tool further comprises a cleaning liquid tank in fluid communication with the cleaning liquid outlet, wherein the surface treatment tool is configured to introduce cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid tank to a surface to be treated via the cleaning liquid outlet.

Such a cleaning liquid tank allows the surface treatment tool to be operated without the need for a user to apply cleaning fluid to a surface separately.

In exemplary embodiments, the cleaning liquid tank is not provided on the cleaning head. In this way, the size of the cleaning head is minimised.

In exemplary embodiments, the surface treatment head further comprises a suction region configured to suck fluid from a surface to be treated, wherein the surface treatment tool further comprises a waste liquid tank in fluid communication with the suction region, wherein the surface treatment tool is configured to suck fluid from a surface to be treated to the waste liquid tank via the suction region.

Such a waste liquid tank allows the surface treatment tool to be operated independently (i.e. without the need to connect to a separate waste liquid tank).

In exemplary embodiments, the waste liquid tank is not provided on the cleaning head. In this way, the size of the cleaning head is minimised.

According to a third aspect of the disclosure a surface treatment head for a surface treatment tool is provided, the surface treatment head comprising:.

Typically, moveable surface treatment elements of cleaning tools are configured to engage a surface to be treated in a rotating motion, which results in a circular treatment area. Such cleaning tools are therefore unable to clean in corners of floors/other surfaces or other hard to reach areas such as regions around table/chair legs to be treated. Having a driving means configured to drive the movable surface treatment element in a cyclical motion (e.g. an oscillating motion, a repeating or back-and-forth motion) allows the moveable surface treatment element to be shaped to define treatment areas of any desirable shape (e.g. treatment areas of circular, arc-shaped, rectangular, square, triangular, trapezoidal, V-shaped, or polygonal profile, or treatment areas of any profile having a plurality of vertices in plan view), which allows corners to be cleaned more easily. This also allows the surface treatment head and moveable surface treatment element to be shaped for maximum manoeuvrability and to be appropriately sized for optimal cleaning and storage purposes.

In exemplary embodiments, the eccentric drive mechanism is configured to drive the moveable surface treatment element so that each point on the moveable surface treatment element moves along a circular path, wherein the circular paths each have a unique centre point but a common radius dimension.

In exemplary embodiments, the moveable surface treatment element comprises a non-circular profile in plan view, wherein the non-circular profile comprises one or more corners.

Having a non-circular profile with one or more corners (e.g. a square, rectangular, triangular, V shape or combination of curved and/or straight sections forming one or more corners between sections) allows corners of a surface to be cleaned more easily.

According to a fourth aspect of the disclosure a joint arrangement is provided comprising a first member and a second member,.

wherein said one or more protrusions and one or more grooves are arranged so that rotation of the first member about a third axis perpendicular to the first axis is translated to rotation of the second member about a fourth axis perpendicular to the second axis and/or vice versa.

According to a fifth aspect of the disclosure a joint arrangement is provided, the joint arrangement comprising a first member and a second member,.

In exemplary embodiments, said one or more protrusions and one or more grooves are arranged so that rotation of the first member about a third axis perpendicular to the first axis is translated to rotation of the second member about a fourth axis perpendicular to the second axis and vice versa.

In exemplary embodiments, said one or more grooves are provided on one or more curved portions of the first member.

In exemplary embodiments, the or each groove comprises a curved profile along its length.

It will be understood that the first axis is perpendicular to a plane defined by the one or more grooves and in this way the first axis is defined by said plane.

It will be understood that the second axis is defined by the location of the one or more projections.

A joint arrangement according to this aspect of the disclosure provides a joint having a small number of components (i.e. it can function with just the first and second members, since the groove(s) and protrusion(s) can be integrally formed with said members). As such, this offers a simple means for coupling two components (e.g. a surface treatment head of a surface treatment tool having a socket, and an elongate support member of a surface treatment tool having a curved member for insertion into the socket).

Optionally, the first member is coupled to a shaft defining a longitudinal axis coaxial with said third axis; and/or wherein the second member is coupled to a shaft defining a longitudinal axis coaxial with said fourth axis.

Optionally, the joint arrangement further comprises a securing member provided to prevent or inhibit disengagement of the first member and the second member.

Having a securing member (e.g. a securing ring or collar) provided to prevent or inhibit disengagement of the first member and the second member provides a robust coupling which can resist a larger separation force than other coupling means.

Optionally, the joint arrangement further comprises a magnetic connection between the first member and the second member for preventing disengagement of the first member and the second member.

A magnetic connection for preventing disengagement of the first member and the second member provides a simple coupling means which may allow a greater range of movement than alternative coupling means.

Optionally, one of the first member and second member comprises a spherical or partially spherical member and the other of the first member and second member is a receiving member comprising a partially spherical inner profile corresponding to an outer profile of the spherical or partially spherical member.

Such an arrangement allows easy movement of the first member within the second member or vice versa, and reduces the size of receiving member necessary to allow movement of the spherical member compared to other receiving member shapes (e.g. a cuboid receiving member shape).

Optionally, the one or more protrusions comprise two protrusions provided on opposing sides of the second member.

Having two protrusions provided on opposing sides of the second member allows the first member to be supported on opposing sides of said groove, which increases the stability and responsiveness of the joint arrangement. Furthermore, this increases the contact area between the protrusions and the groove, which improves transfer of rotation of the first member about the third axis to rotation of the second member about the fourth axis and/or vice versa.

Optionally, the or each protrusion is a spherical, partially spherical, cylindrical or partially cylindrical formation (e.g. a spherical ball bearing or a hemisphere).

The or each protrusion being a spherical, partially-spherical, cylindrical or partially cylindrical formation allows the one or more grooves of the first member to pivot easily around the protrusion(s) for rotation about the second axis.

Optionally, the or each protrusion is a spherical or partially spherical formation comprising a first arc-shaped cross section, and wherein the groove comprises a second arc-shaped cross section corresponding to the first arc-shaped cross section.

The spherical or partially-spherical protrusions and groove having complementary cross sections allows the groove of the first member to pivot easily around the protrusions for relative rotation about the second axis
Optionally, the one or more protrusions are integrally formed with the second member.

This reduces the number of components of the joint arrangement (over those with separate protrusions such as ball bearings provided within recesses of the second member) and provides for a simple assembly and maintenance of the joint.

According to a sixth aspect of the disclosure, a surface treatment tool is provided comprising a surface treatment head and an elongate support member coupled to the surface treatment head by a joint arrangement as disclosed herein.

By coupling the elongate support member and surface treatment head via such a joint arrangement, the surface treatment head can be moved easily on a surface to be treated by a user guiding the elongate support member (i.e. the elongate support member can move in all directions to push/pull the surface treatment head, and the surface treatment head can be rotated via rotation of the elongate support member about the third or fourth axis).

Optionally, the surface treatment head is a surface treatment head as disclosed herein.

Such a surface treatment head improves manoeuvrability and cleaning performance (e.g. better cleaning in corners of a surface) which in combination with a joint arrangement providing easy movement of the surface treatment head in all directions results in a highly manoeuvrable surface treatment tool with good cleaning performance.

Alternatively, the surface treatment head may be any other suitable surface treatment head.

According to a seventh aspect of the disclosure, a surface treatment tool is provided comprising a surface treatment head and an elongate support member coupled to the surface treatment head by a joint arrangement;.

According to an eighth aspect of the disclosure, a surface treatment tool is provided, the surface treatment tool comprising a surface treatment head and an elongate support member coupled to the surface treatment head by a joint arrangement;.

In exemplary embodiments, the surface treatment head comprises a movable surface treatment element configured to engage a surface to be treated.

In exemplary embodiments, the surface treatment head comprises a cleaning liquid outlet configured to introduce cleaning liquid to a surface to be treated.

In exemplary embodiments, the cleaning liquid outlet is provided proximal the or a movable surface treatment element of the surface treatment head; optionally, wherein the cleaning liquid outlet is configured to apply cleaning liquid forward of the movable surface treatment element in a treatment direction of the surface treatment head.

In exemplary embodiments, the surface treatment head comprises a suction region configured to suck fluid from a surface to be treated.

In exemplary embodiments, the suction region is provided proximal the or a movable surface treatment element of the surface treatment head; optionally, wherein the suction region is provided behind the movable surface treatment element in a treatment direction of the surface treatment head.

In exemplary embodiments, the joint arrangement is located below an upper surface of the surface treatment head.

In this way, a cleaning head having a reduced height profile is provided.

In exemplary embodiments, the joint arrangement is provided at a distal end of the elongate support member.

In exemplary embodiments, the joint arrangement may be used to couple any suitable surface treatment head to any suitable elongate support member.

According to a further aspect of the disclosure, a surface treatment tool is provided comprising a surface treatment head as disclosed herein, and/or a joint arrangement as disclosed herein.

According to a further aspect of the disclosure, a surface treatment component is provided comprising a surface treatment head as disclosed therein, and/or a joint arrangement as disclosed herein.

According to a further aspect of the disclosure, a treatment portion for a surface treatment head is provided,.

Optionally, the edge of the treatment portion is a rear edge with respect to the treatment direction.

Optionally, the edge of the treatment portion is a front edge with respect to the treatment direction.

Optionally, the treatment portion comprises a front edge and a rear edge, wherein each of the front and rear edges comprise a first end, a second end and a middle portion located between the first and second ends, wherein the respective first and second ends project forward of the respective middle portion in a treatment direction of the treatment portion.

In exemplary embodiments, the treatment portion comprises one or more brushes, sponges, cloths, towels, cleaning pads or any other material suitable for treating a surface.

In some embodiments, the treatment portion comprises an intermediate component (e.g. a support plate), wherein the intermediate component is configured to be releasably coupled to said driving means; optionally, wherein said one or more brushes, sponges, cloths towels, cleaning pads or other material suitable for treating a surface are releasably coupled to the intermediate component.

In exemplary embodiments, the treatment portion comprises an attachment means for releasably coupling the treatment portion to said surface treatment head (e.g. to attach the treatment portion to a drivable portion to form a surface treatment element and/or to attach the treatment portion to said driving means of said surface treatment head).

In exemplary embodiments, the attachment means comprises a magnetic coupling.

In exemplary embodiments, the attachment means comprises a snap-fit coupling.

In exemplary embodiments, the attachment means comprises a threaded coupling (e.g. including a thumbscrew).

In exemplary embodiments, the attachment means comprises an interference fit coupling.

In exemplary embodiments, the attachment means comprises a resilient (e.g. elasticated) periphery of the treatment portion.

In exemplary embodiments, the attachment means comprises one or more first fastening elements for coupling to one or more corresponding second fastening elements of the surface treatment tool (e.g. of said drivable portion and/or said driving means of the surface treatment tool).

In exemplary embodiments, the or each first fastening element comprises a magnet or magnetic material for coupling to a corresponding second fastening element of a surface treatment tool comprising a magnetic material or a magnet (e.g. to magnetically attach the treatment portion to said drivable portion to form said surface treatment element and/or to magnetically attach the treatment portion to said driving means of said surface treatment head).

In exemplary embodiments, the or each first fastening element comprises a hook-and-eye fastener for coupling to a corresponding second fastening element of a surface treatment tool comprising a hook-and-eye fastener (e.g. to attach the treatment portion to said drivable portion to form said surface treatment element and/or to attach the treatment portion to said driving means of said surface treatment head).

In exemplary embodiments, the or each first fastening element comprises a threaded element (e.g. a thumbscrew) or threaded bore for coupling to a corresponding second fastening element of a surface treatment tool comprising a threaded bore or threaded element (e.g. to threadedly attach the treatment portion to said drivable portion to form said surface treatment element and/or to threadedly attach the treatment portion to said driving means of said surface treatment head).

In exemplary embodiments, the or each first fastening element comprises a first snap-fit formation for snap-fitting to a corresponding second fastening element of a surface treatment tool comprising a second snap-fit formation (e.g. to snap-fit the treatment portion to said drivable portion to form said surface treatment element and/or to snap-fit the treatment portion to said driving means of said surface treatment head).

In some embodiments, the attachment means is a first attachment means for releasably coupling the intermediate component to said surface treatment tool, wherein the treatment portion comprises a second attachment means for releasably coupling said one or more brushes, sponges, cloths towels, cleaning pads or other material suitable for treating a surface to the intermediate component.

In some embodiments, the second attachment means comprises a magnetic coupling, a snap-fit coupling, a threaded coupling, an interference fit coupling, a resilient (e.g. elasticated) coupling, and/or a hook-and-eye coupling.

According to a further aspect of the disclosure a surface treatment head for a surface treatment tool is provided, the surface treatment head comprising:.

It will be appreciated that the optional features disclosed herein may be combined with any aspect of the disclosure. All combinations are not recited herein for the sake of brevity.

Embodiments of the invention are now described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

Referring firstly to <FIG>, a surface treatment head according to an embodiment is indicated at <NUM>. The surface treatment head <NUM> includes a movable surface treatment element <NUM> configured to engage a surface to be treated, and a driving means <NUM> including a motor <NUM> configured to drive the movable surface treatment element <NUM> to effect cleaning of said surface.

It will be understood that the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> may include one or more brushes, sponges, cloths, towels, cleaning pads or any other material suitable for cleaning a surface. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> is formed of a treatment portion 12a in the form of a cleaning pad and a drivable portion 12b driven by the driving means <NUM>. The treatment portion 12a is attached (either permanently or releasably) to the drivable portion 12b. In the illustrated embodiment, the treatment portion 12a and the drivable portion 12b correspond approximately in shape. In alternative embodiments, the treatment portion 12a and drivable portion 12b are of different shapes. In alternative embodiments, a plurality of cleaning portions 12a are attached to the drivable portion 12b.

In some embodiments, an intermediate component (e.g. a support plate) is located between the treatment portion 12a and the drivable portion 12b. For example, the treatment portion 12a may be releasably coupled to the intermediate component (e.g. via hook-and-eye fasteners, magnetic coupling, snap fit coupling, resilient coupling, threaded coupling, interference fit, or any other suitable coupling) and/or the intermediate component may be releasably coupled to the drivable portion 12b (e.g. via hook-and-eye fasteners, magnetic coupling, snap fit, resilient coupling, threaded coupling, interference fit, or any other suitable coupling). In such embodiments, it may be easier to remove the treatment portion 12a from the surface treatment head <NUM> by first de-coupling the intermediate component from the drivable portion 12b, and then de-coupling the treatment portion 12a from the intermediate component. In effect, the intermediate component can be considered a removable part of the treatment portion 12a, or a removable part of the drivable portion 12b.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, the movable surface treatment element <NUM> has a first end <NUM>, a second end <NUM> and a middle portion <NUM> located between the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM>. The first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> project forward of the middle portion <NUM> in a treatment direction <NUM> of the surface treatment head <NUM>.

In exemplary embodiments, such as those illustrated, a profile of the surface treatment head <NUM> as a whole conforms substantially to the profile of the moveable surface treatment element <NUM>. In other words, the surface treatment head <NUM> also has first and second ends end which project forward of a middle portion in the treatment direction <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment head <NUM> includes a shroud (i.e. body) <NUM> on which the motor <NUM> is mounted, and the shroud <NUM> conforms substantially to the shape of the moveable surface treatment element <NUM>.

Having first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> which project forward of the middle portion <NUM> in a treatment direction <NUM> of the surface treatment head <NUM> means that dirt and/or waste fluid is directed towards the middle portion <NUM> as the surface treatment head <NUM> is moved, facilitating collection of dirt and/or waste fluid. For example, in the case where the surface treatment head <NUM> is part of a scrubber dryer and includes a suction region for removing waste water, directing waste water towards the middle portion <NUM> may facilitate uptake of waste water and an improved drying performance.

This shape of surface treatment head <NUM> also facilitates cleaning of hard to reach areas and partial surrounding of objects such as table legs, thereby providing effecting cleaning of an entire floor area.

The surface treatment head includes a height <NUM> (best illustrated in <FIG>) in a region proximal the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the moveable treatment element <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the height <NUM> is in the range of <NUM> to <NUM> (e.g. <NUM> in the illustrated embodiment). Such a height <NUM> is low in comparison to typical cleaning heads, which allows the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the moveable treatment element <NUM> to fit under furniture such as shelving for cleaning. This may be particularly useful for environments such as supermarkets, which include large amounts of low-level shelving elements, and in which hygiene is of particular concern. In combination with the shape of the surface treatment head <NUM>, in which the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> project forward of the middle portion <NUM> in a treatment direction <NUM> of the surface treatment head <NUM>, having a low profile in the region of the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> further facilitates cleaning of hard to reach areas, thereby providing effective cleaning of an entire floor area.

In the illustrated embodiment, the motor <NUM> of the driving means <NUM> is located in the middle portion <NUM> of the surface treatment head <NUM>. Since the motor <NUM> will add height to the surface treatment head <NUM>, locating the motor <NUM> in the middle portion <NUM> facilitates a lower height of the surface treatment head <NUM> at the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM>. This allows the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> to fit under small gaps beneath furniture (e.g. shelving elements or the like).

In the illustrated embodiment, the movable surface treatment element <NUM> is elongate. Having an elongate surface treatment element <NUM> allows a wide area to be cleaned when moving the surface treatment head <NUM> in a direction perpendicular to the long axis of the elongate movable surface treatment element <NUM> (i.e. in the treatment direction <NUM>), but results in a smaller overall head size, which allows the surface treatment head <NUM> to reach smaller spaces and which is less bulky for storage.

In particular, the movable surface treatment element <NUM> has a width <NUM> transverse to the treatment direction <NUM> and a depth <NUM> along the treatment direction. It will be understood that the term "width" refers to the distance between two side-most points of the moveable surface treatment element <NUM>, and the term "depth" refers to the distance between a front edge <NUM> and a rear edge <NUM> of the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> at a given position along the width <NUM>.

In exemplary embodiments, the width <NUM> is in the range of <NUM> to <NUM> and the depth <NUM> is in the range of <NUM> to <NUM> (for example, in the illustrated embodiment, the width <NUM> is around <NUM> and the depth <NUM> is around <NUM>). Such a width <NUM> has been found to provide a good trade-off between reducing the time to clean an area (by having a larger width <NUM>) and improving the manoeuvrability/allowing the surface treatment head <NUM> to fit into confined areas (by having a smaller width <NUM>).

In alternative embodiments, the width <NUM> and moveable surface treatment element depth <NUM> may have different values and the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> may not be elongate.

In the illustrated embodiment, the depth <NUM> varies across the width <NUM> of the moveable surface treatment element <NUM>. For example, the depth <NUM> is larger in the middle portion <NUM> and smaller towards the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, the depth <NUM> is constant across the width <NUM>.

Having a larger depth <NUM> in the middle portion <NUM> and a smaller depth <NUM> towards the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> facilitates greater manoeuvrability of the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> (which are more likely to be moved into confined spaces such as corners or areas around furniture) whilst efficiently treating a larger area in the middle portion <NUM>.

The surface treatment head <NUM> includes an overall depth <NUM> along the treatment direction <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the overall depth <NUM> extends from a front-most point of the surface treatment element <NUM> or shroud <NUM> to the rear-most point of the surface treatment head <NUM>, at a given width.

In exemplary embodiments, the overall depth <NUM> is in the range of <NUM> to <NUM>.

The surface treatment head <NUM> also comprises an overall width in a direction transverse to the treatment direction <NUM>, i.e. the distance between two side-most points of the surface treatment head <NUM>.

In the embodiments illustrated in <FIG>, the movable surface treatment <NUM> element has a curved shaped profile in plan view. In particular, the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> has a substantially arc shaped profile. In exemplary embodiments, a radius of the arc shaped profile is in the range of <NUM> to <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the front edge <NUM> has a radius of around <NUM> and the rear edge <NUM> has a radius of around <NUM>.

Such a curved shaped profile has been found to provide good cleaning performance, good manoeuvrability of the surface treatment head <NUM>, and relatively compact head size for cleaning confined areas and compact storage.

Similarly, in the alternative embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the movable surface treatment <NUM> element has a curved shaped profile in plan view, although the radius of the arc-shaped profile is larger than that of <FIG>. In the embodiment of <FIG>, like components are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again for the sake of brevity.

In alternative embodiments, such as those illustrated in <FIG>, the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> has a different profile in plan view. For example, in <FIG> the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> has a substantially V-shaped profile in plan view. In such embodiments, the V-shape profile may have a central angle in the range of <NUM> to <NUM> degrees (for example, the V-shaped profile of <FIG> has a central angle θ of around <NUM> degrees). The moveable surface treatment element <NUM> may also have any other shape of profile in plan view in which the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> project forward of the middle portion <NUM> in the treatment direction <NUM>. For example, the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> of <FIG> have a combination of curved and V-shaped profiles on front and rear sides (with respect to the treatment direction), and the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> of <FIG> has a U-shaped profile.

In exemplary embodiments such as those illustrated, both a front edge <NUM> and a rear edge <NUM> of the movable surface treatment element <NUM> are at least partially curved or V-shaped.

In alternative embodiments, such as those illustrated in <FIG>, the movable surface treatment element <NUM> has a different profile in plan view. For example, in <FIG> the movable surface treatment element <NUM> has a rear edge <NUM> which is curved or V-shaped, and a front edge <NUM> which is straight (<FIG>) or which has a middle portion which projects forward of first and second ends of the front edge <NUM> with respect to the treatment direction <NUM> (<FIG>).

In all of the alternative shapes of movable surface treatment element depicted in <FIG>, the rear edge <NUM> has a first end, a second end and a middle portion located between the first and second ends, and the middle portion of the rear edge <NUM> projects rearward of the first and second ends of the rear edge <NUM> with respect to the treatment direction <NUM>. As best illustrated in <FIG>, such a shape of the rear edge at least partially fills a void created by a curved front edge of the suction region <NUM> (described in more detail below), which reduces wasted space on the surface treatment head.

In the embodiments illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>and <FIG> the surface treatment element includes a front edge <NUM>, a rear edge <NUM>, a first side wall 23a (proximal the first end <NUM>) extending between the front and rear edges at a first side of the moveable surface treatment head, and a second side wall 23b (proximal the second end <NUM>) extending between the front and rear edges <NUM>,<NUM> at a second side of the moveable surface treatment head (see <FIG>). The first and second side walls 23a,b are arranged to extend at an angle to the front edge. In this way, a corner defined by the front edge and the respective side wall is provided. This angled arrangement has been found to facilitate treatment of corners and other hard to reach areas.

In the illustrated embodiment of <FIG>, the first and second side walls 23a,b are arranged to extend at an angle of approximately <NUM>° to the front edge.

Furthermore, in the embodiments illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>and <FIG>, the front edge <NUM> has a length which is less than a length of the rear edge <NUM>. In this way, provision of a corner between the front edge <NUM> and side walls 23a,b is facilitated.

Referring again to <FIG> and <FIG>, the driving means <NUM> includes an eccentric drive mechanism <NUM>. The motor <NUM> is coupled to the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> via the eccentric drive mechanism <NUM> so that the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> engages a surface to be treated in a cyclical motion such that the front edge <NUM> faces forwards with respect to the treatment direction <NUM> throughout the cyclical motion.

In particular, the eccentric drive mechanism <NUM> (shown in close up view in <FIG>) is configured to drive the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> so that each point <NUM> on the moveable surface treatment element moves along a circular path <NUM>, and the circular paths <NUM> each have a unique centre point but a common radius dimension. This contrasts with a typical rotational movement of a treatment element, in which each point on the treatment element moves along a circular path with a centre point that is common to the circular path of each other point.

Having a driving means <NUM> configured to drive the movable surface treatment element <NUM> in an cyclical motion allows the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> to be shaped to be non-circular (e.g. arc-shaped, rectangular, square, triangular, V-shaped or U-shaped treatment areas, as shown in <FIG>), which allows corners to be cleaned more easily. This also allows the surface treatment head <NUM> and moveable surface treatment element <NUM> to be shaped for maximum manoeuvrability and to be appropriately sized for optimal cleaning and storage purposes.

In the illustrated embodiment, the eccentric drive mechanism <NUM> includes a shaft 30a driven by the motor <NUM>, an eccentric cam 30b coupled to the shaft 30a, and bearings 30c between the eccentric cam 30b and the drivable portion 12b of the moveable surface treatment element <NUM>. The bearings 30c allow the eccentric cam 30b to rotate with respect to the drivable portion 12b (i.e. without rotating the drivable portion 12b).

The eccentric cam 30b includes a first portion 30d which has a relatively smaller radius and a second portion 30e which has a relatively larger radius with respect to a rotational axis of the shaft 30a. This shape of the eccentric cam 30b results in a translational movement of the bearings 30c as the eccentric cam 30b is rotated, and thus a translational movement of the driven portion 12b of the moveable surface treatment element <NUM>.

In alternative embodiments, a different type of eccentric drive mechanism is used.

In alternative embodiments, the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> includes a plurality of sub-elements <NUM> distributed within the profile of the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> in plan view (e.g. as illustrated in <FIG>). In such embodiments, the eccentric drive mechanism <NUM> may be removed, and instead each sub-element may be driven in a rotational, rather than orbital movement. For example, the driving means <NUM> may include a belt, chain or gear arrangement for translating rotational movement of the motor <NUM> to rotational movement of the sub-elements <NUM>. Alternatively, a separate motor <NUM> may be provided for each sub-element <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the surface treatment head <NUM> includes a cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> configured to introduce cleaning liquid to a surface to be treated. Having a cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> increases the cleaning performance of the surface treatment head (e.g. by including water, soaps, detergents or antibacterial/antiviral agents). Furthermore, such a cleaning liquid outlet allows cleaning liquid to be applied via the surface treatment head <NUM>, rather than a user having to apply cleaning liquid to a surface independently. However, in alternative embodiments, the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> is omitted and instead the surface treatment head <NUM> is used for dry cleaning or the uses applies liquid to the surface to be treated independently to the surface treatment head <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> is provided proximal the movable surface treatment element <NUM>. Providing the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> proximal the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> ensures that cleaning fluid introduced to a surface via the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> is in close proximity to the movable surface treatment element <NUM>, which facilitates ease of use.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> is configured to apply cleaning liquid forward of the movable surface treatment element <NUM> in the treatment direction <NUM> of the surface treatment head <NUM>. Providing the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> such that it is configured to apply cleaning fluid forward of the moveable surface treatment element ensures that the liquid is applied to an area of the surface which is likely to be acted on by the moveable surface treatment element <NUM>, so that the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> will pass over a surface after cleaning fluid has been introduced. This increases the cleaning performance of the surface treatment head <NUM> and ease of use.

In alternative embodiments, the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> is positioned above the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> and cleaning fluid provided by the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> passes through one or more passageways and/or pores in the moveable surface treatment element <NUM>, e.g. by gravity, after leaving the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> and before contacting the surface to be treated.

In the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment head <NUM> also includes a suction region <NUM> configured to suck fluid from a surface to be treated. Such a suction region <NUM> allows waste water (e.g. cleaning fluid which has been introduced to a surface, acted on by the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> and thus soiled) to be removed from a surface. This results in a cleaner surface and a reduced drying time, which allows the surface to be used (e.g. walked over) more quickly after cleaning. However, in alternative embodiments the suction region <NUM> is omitted so that a surface cleaned by the surface treatment head <NUM> is left to dry naturally.

As will be described in more detail below, the suction region <NUM> is provided proximal the movable surface treatment element <NUM>. In particular, the suction region <NUM> is provided behind the movable surface treatment element <NUM> in the treatment direction <NUM>. Providing the suction region <NUM> behind the movable surface treatment element <NUM> in the treatment direction <NUM> of the surface treatment head <NUM> facilitates removal of waste water from the surface as the surface treatment head <NUM> is passed over the surface to be treated.

The suction region <NUM> of the embodiment of <FIG> may be constructed similarly to the suction region <NUM> of <FIG>, which will be described in more detail below.

Referring now to <FIG>, a surface treatment head according to a further embodiment is indicated generally at <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiments, the suction region <NUM> has a first end, a second end and a middle portion located between the first and second ends, and the first and second ends of the suction region <NUM> project forward of the middle portion of the suction region in the treatment direction <NUM>. In particular, the suction region <NUM> of the embodiment of <FIG> is curved rearwards. Such a shape ensures that waste fluid is directed towards the middle portion of the suction region <NUM> as the surface treatment head <NUM> is moved in the treatment direction <NUM>, facilitating uptake of waste fluid and an improved drying performance.

As best illustrated in <FIG>, the rear edge <NUM> of the movable surface treatment element <NUM> has a middle portion which projects rearwards with respect to the treatment direction <NUM>, which reduces the extent to which a void (or space) is formed between the curved front edge of the suction region <NUM> and the rear edge <NUM> of the movable surface treatment element <NUM>. This provides an efficient use of space on the surface treatment head <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiments, the suction region <NUM> is defined by one or more resilient guide members <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG>, the suction region <NUM> is defined by a first resilient guide member <NUM> proximal the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> and a second resilient guide member <NUM> distal the moveable surface treatment element <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, the suction region <NUM> is formed by a single resilient guide member <NUM> which is bent or curved to encircle the suction region <NUM>.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, the profile of the first resilient guide member <NUM> is complementary to the profile of moveable surface treatment element <NUM>. This ensures that the suction region <NUM> effectively surrounds the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> for optimal uptake of waste fluid from the surface to be treated.

The suction region <NUM> has a depth <NUM> which, when the suction region <NUM> is present increases the overall depth <NUM> of the surface treatment head <NUM>.

In exemplary embodiments, the suction region depth <NUM> is smaller than the moveable surface treatment element depth <NUM>. For example, in the embodiment of <FIG>, the maximum suction region depth <NUM> is approximately <NUM>% of the maximum moveable surface treatment element depth <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, there is a different ratio between the suction region depth <NUM> and the moveable surface treatment element depth <NUM>.

In exemplary embodiments, the suction region depth <NUM> varies across its width (transverse to the treatment direction <NUM>). For example, the suction region depth <NUM> is larger in the middle portion of the suction region <NUM> and smaller towards the first and second ends of the suction region <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, the suction region depth <NUM> is constant across the width of the suction region <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the resilient guide member(s) <NUM> include one or more openings to permit fluid to enter the suction region <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, the resilient guide member(s) <NUM> include one or more grooves or corrugations configured to form openings to permit fluid to enter the suction region <NUM> when the surface treatment head is moved in the treatment direction <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the opening(s), groove(s) or corrugation(s) are provided by resilient guide member (or portion thereof) proximal the moveable surface treatment element <NUM> (i.e. the first resilient guide member <NUM> in the illustrated embodiment).

The resilient guide member(s) <NUM> are configured to form a seal around the suction region <NUM> (e.g. due to compression or flexing of the resilient guide member(s) <NUM> due to weight of the surface treatment head <NUM> being supported on the resilient guide member(s) <NUM>). It will be understood that a greater compression/flexing of the resilient guide member(s) <NUM> provides better sealing of the suction region <NUM>. However, compressing/flexing the resilient guide member(s) <NUM> too much may result in blocking of the opening(s), groove(s) or corrugation(s) of the resilient guide member(s) <NUM> which would prevent fluid from entering the suction region <NUM> and being removed from the surface being treated.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, supporting wheels <NUM> are provided to optimise the sealing performance of the resilient guide member(s) <NUM>. In particular, the supporting wheels <NUM> are designed to limit the compression/flexing of the resilient guide member(s) <NUM> to an optimal amount. For example, the supporting wheels <NUM> are arranged such that with the resilient guide member(s) <NUM> resting on a surface to be treated without any weight applied to the surface treatment head <NUM> (i.e. in an uncompressed/un-flexed state of the resilient guide member(s) <NUM>), the supporting wheels <NUM> will be spaced apart from the surface to be treated. In this way, the weight of the surface treatment head <NUM> will cause the resilient guide member(s) <NUM> to compress/flex to the point at which the supporting wheels <NUM> contact the ground. Once the supporting wheels <NUM> are in contact with the ground, further compression/flexing of the resilient guide member(s) <NUM> is inhibited, since the supporting wheels <NUM> support the remaining weight of the surface treatment head <NUM>.

In alternative embodiments, the supporting wheels <NUM> are replaced with rollers, ball bearings or supporting legs for limiting the compression/flexing of the resilient guide member(s).

In alternative embodiments (e.g. the embodiment of <FIG>), the supporting wheels are removed entirely, and the lower portion of the shroud <NUM> which holds the resilient guide members <NUM> prevents over-flexing of the guide members.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, the surface treatment head <NUM> is coupled to an elongate support member <NUM> of a surface treatment tool via a coupling <NUM>. The coupling <NUM> includes a first rotational axis a1 (e.g. an axis allowing sideways pivoting of the elongate support member <NUM>) and a second rotational axis arranged perpendicular to the first rotational axis a2 (e.g. an axis allowing forwards/backwards pivoting of the elongate support member <NUM>). In the illustrated embodiment, the first rotational axis intersects the second rotational axis.

An alternative type of coupling <NUM> for coupling the surface treatment head <NUM> to the elongate support member <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>, as will be described in more detail below.

These types of coupling <NUM> allow the elongate support member <NUM> to move in a plurality directions with respect to the surface treatment head <NUM> (i.e. by relative rotation about the first and second axes a1, a2), and to translate rotation of the elongate support member <NUM> about a third axis a3 perpendicular to the first axis a1 to rotation of the surface treatment head <NUM> about a fourth axis a4 perpendicular to the second axis a2 (i.e. a vertical axis when the surface treatment head <NUM> is positioned on a horizontal surface). This allows the surface treatment head <NUM> to be easily manoeuvred by a user via movement or rotation of the elongate support member <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the third and fourth axes a3, a4 are coaxial since the elongate support member <NUM> is oriented vertically and the surface treatment head <NUM> is positioned on a horizontal surface. It will be understood that in other positions of the elongate support member <NUM> and/or surface treatment head <NUM>, the orientation of axes a3 and a4 will differ so that they are not coaxial. For example, when the elongate support member <NUM> is tilted away from the vertical position about the second axis a2, the third axis a3 will be angled relative to the fourth axis a4.

Referring now to <FIG>, a functional schematic diagram of a surface treatment tool including the surface treatment head <NUM> of <FIG> or <FIG> is indicated at <NUM>.

The surface treatment tool includes a power source <NUM> for powering the motor <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the power source <NUM> is an electrical energy storage device (e.g. a battery) provided by or on the surface treatment tool <NUM>. Having a power source (e.g. battery) provided by or on the surface treatment tool <NUM> removes the need for a cable to connect the tool to a mains electricity supply. This increases the range of surfaces that can be treated (e.g. those with no close mains electricity supply) and increases manoeuvrability (e.g. by not having to clean around a cable).

In alternative embodiments, the power source <NUM> is omitted and the surface treatment tool <NUM> is powered by a cable connected to a mains electricity supply.

In the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment tool <NUM> also includes a cleaning liquid tank <NUM> in fluid communication with the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> of the surface treatment head <NUM>. The surface treatment tool <NUM> is configured to introduce cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid tank <NUM> to a surface to be treated via the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM>. Such a cleaning liquid tank <NUM> allows the surface treatment tool <NUM> to be operated without the need for a user to apply cleaning fluid to a surface separately.

It will be understood that in embodiments where the cleaning liquid outlet <NUM> is omitted (e.g. dry scrubbing machines, or machines for use with a separately applied source of cleaning fluid) the cleaning liquid tank <NUM> is also omitted.

In the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment tool <NUM> also includes a waste liquid tank <NUM> in fluid communication with the suction region <NUM> of the surface treatment head <NUM>. The surface treatment tool <NUM> is configured to suck fluid from a surface to be treated to the waste liquid tank <NUM> via the suction region <NUM>. Such a waste liquid tank <NUM> allows the surface treatment tool <NUM> to be operated independently (i.e. without the need to connect to a separate waste liquid tank).

Referring now to <FIG>, a coupling in the form of a joint arrangement according to an embodiment is indicated at <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the joint arrangement <NUM> is shown coupling a surface treatment head <NUM> (e.g. of similar construction to the coupler head <NUM> of <FIG>) to a portion of an elongate support member <NUM> of a surface treatment tool (e.g. of the type shown schematically in <FIG>).

The joint arrangement <NUM> includes a first member (e.g. a curved member <NUM>) and a second member (e.g. a receiving member <NUM> in the form of a socket for receiving the curved member <NUM>).

In the illustrated embodiment, the curved member <NUM> is a spherical member <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, the curved member <NUM> is a partially-spherical member (e.g. a hemisphere). In alternative embodiments, the curved member <NUM> is a curved bracket (e.g. a ring-shaped, or partially ring-shaped bracket). In alternative embodiments, the curved member <NUM> comprises a cylinder or disc.

In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving member <NUM> has a partially spherical inner profile corresponding to an outer profile of the spherical member <NUM>. For example, the inner profile is substantially hemispherical. In alternative embodiments, the receiving member <NUM> has an inner profile of different shape (e.g. cuboid, or cylindrical). In some embodiments, the receiving member <NUM> may be defined by side walls but open at a first end (for receiving the curved member <NUM>) and a second end opposite the first end. In other words, the receiving member <NUM> may be substantially tubular.

The illustrated arrangement allows easy movement of the spherical member <NUM> within the receiving member <NUM>, and reduces the size of receiving member <NUM> necessary to allow movement of the spherical member <NUM>.

The curved member <NUM> includes one or more grooves <NUM> extending around at least a portion of a periphery <NUM> of the curved member <NUM>. The groove <NUM> has a curved profile along its length.

In the illustrated embodiment, a single groove <NUM> is provided in the periphery <NUM> of the spherical member <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, two grooves or more are provided. For example, when the curved member <NUM> is a curved bracket with two ends that are separated from each other, two grooves <NUM> may be provided, each groove <NUM> extending from a respective end towards a centre of the bracket.

The receiving member <NUM> includes one or more protrusions <NUM>. The joint arrangement <NUM> is configured so that the one or more protrusions <NUM> can be located within the one or more grooves <NUM> and move along the one or more grooves <NUM> to permit relative rotation of the curved member <NUM> and receiving member <NUM> about a first axis a1. For example, <FIG> shows the curved member <NUM> in a first position (solid black lines) and in a second position (greyed-out lines) rotated about the first axis a1 relative to the first position.

The one or more protrusions <NUM> define a second axis a2 perpendicular to the first axis a1 and the curved member <NUM> is configured to rotate about the one or more protrusions <NUM> for relative rotation of the curved member <NUM> and receiving member <NUM> about the second axis a2. For example, <FIG> shows the curved member <NUM> in a first position (solid black lines) and in a second position (greyed-out lines) rotated about the second axis a2 relative to the first position.

In the illustrated embodiment of <FIG>, the protrusions <NUM> are arranged transverse to the treatment direction <NUM>, so that the second axis a2 is transverse to the treatment direction <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, the protrusions <NUM> are arranged parallel to the treatment direction <NUM>, so that the second axis a2 is parallel to the treatment direction <NUM>.

The one or more protrusions <NUM> and one or more grooves <NUM> are arranged so that rotation of the curved member <NUM> about a third axis a3 perpendicular to the first axis a1 is translated to rotation of the receiving member <NUM> (and thus rotation of the surface treatment head <NUM>) about a fourth axis a4 perpendicular to the second axis a2, and/or vice versa.

In <FIG>, in the first position, the third axis is indicated by reference numeral a3, and in the second position, the third axis is indicated by reference numeral a3'.

The joint arrangement <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG> provides a joint having a small number of components (i.e. it can function with just the receiving member <NUM> and curved member <NUM>). As such, this offers a simple means for coupling two components.

The groove <NUM> defines a groove plane, which is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the elongate support member <NUM> coupled to the curved member <NUM> (i.e. the longitudinal axis of the elongate support member <NUM> is coaxial with the third axis a3). In alternative embodiments, the groove plane is angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the elongate support member <NUM> between a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis and a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis (i.e. at an acute or obtuse angle to the longitudinal axis). Having a groove plane parallel to the longitudinal axis or angled relative to the longitudinal axis between a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis and a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis allows rotation of the elongate support member <NUM> about its longitudinal axis to be transferred via the groove <NUM> and protrusions <NUM> to rotation of the receiving member <NUM> about the fourth axis a4. In contrast, if the groove plane was provided orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, the elongate support member <NUM> could rotate freely around its longitudinal axis (i.e. third axis a3, a3') without transferring torque to the receiving member <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, two protrusions <NUM> are provided on opposing sides of the receiving member <NUM>. Having two protrusions <NUM> provided on opposing sides of the socket <NUM> allows the curved member <NUM> to be supported on opposing sides of the groove <NUM> (or supported by two grooves), which increases the stability and responsiveness of the joint arrangement <NUM>. Furthermore, this increases the contact area between the receiving member <NUM> and the groove <NUM>, which improves transfer of rotation of the curved member <NUM> about the third axis a3 to rotation of the receiving member <NUM> about the fourth axis a4 and/or vice versa. In alternative embodiments, only one protrusion <NUM> is provided.

In the illustrated embodiment, each protrusion <NUM> is integrally formed with the receiving member <NUM> (e.g. via injection moulding, 3D printing, casting, machining etc.). This reduces the number of components of the joint arrangement <NUM> over those with separate protrusions <NUM> and provides for a simple assembly and maintenance of the joint.

In alternative embodiments, the protrusions <NUM> are formed as separate components to the receiving member <NUM> and are provided within the receiving member <NUM> in use. For example, the protrusions <NUM> may be defined by ball bearings provided within recesses in the receiving member <NUM>. In such embodiments, the separate protrusions <NUM> may be permanently attached to the socket (e.g. via adhesive, welding and the like) or may be releasably attached to the socket (e.g. via an interference fit, being held in place by the curved member <NUM> fitted in the socket <NUM>).

In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusions <NUM> are partially spherical formations (e.g. hemispheres). In alternative embodiments, the protrusions <NUM> are fully spherical (e.g. ball bearings), cylindrical, or partially cylindrical. The protrusions <NUM> being spherical, partially-spherical, cylindrical or partially cylindrical formations allows the groove <NUM> of the curved member <NUM> to pivot easily around the protrusions <NUM> for rotation about the second axis a2. In alternative embodiments, the protrusions <NUM> are of any other suitable shape.

In the illustrated embodiment, each protrusion <NUM> has a first arc-shaped cross section and the groove <NUM> has a second arc-shaped cross section corresponding to the first arc-shaped cross section. Having complementary cross sections allows the groove <NUM> of the curved member <NUM> to pivot easily around the protrusions <NUM> for relative rotation about the second axis a2. In alternative embodiments, the protrusions <NUM> and or groove <NUM> have a different cross section (e.g. only one of the groove <NUM> and protrusions <NUM> may have an arc-shaped cross section).

In the illustrated embodiment of <FIG>, the joint arrangement <NUM> includes a securing member <NUM> provided to maintain the curved member <NUM> and in the receiving member <NUM>, i.e. to prevent or inhibit disengagement of the curved member <NUM> and the receiving member <NUM>. Such a securing member <NUM> helps to maintain a coupling between the curved member <NUM> and receiving member <NUM> and facilitates a robust coupling which can resist a larger separation force than other coupling means.

In the illustrated embodiment, the securing member <NUM> is a ring which is provided over the curved member <NUM> and which encircles the curved member <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, the securing member <NUM> is a collar or of a different shape (e.g. a partially ring shaped member which partially encircles the curved member <NUM> and has two ends spaced apart from each other).

In alternative embodiments, the securing ring <NUM> is omitted. In some embodiments, the joint arrangement <NUM> may include a magnetic connection between the curved member <NUM> and the receiving member <NUM> for preventing disengagement of the curved member <NUM> and the receiving member <NUM>. A magnetic connection for preventing disengagement of the curved member <NUM> and the receiving member <NUM> provides a simple coupling means which may allow a greater range of movement than alternative coupling means, such as those with a securing member <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a joint arrangement according to a further embodiment is indicated at <NUM>. Common features with the joint arrangement <NUM> of <FIG> are given the same reference numeral with the prefix "<NUM>", and only differences are discussed.

The joint arrangement <NUM> is similar to the joint arrangement <NUM> of <FIG>, except the protrusions <NUM> are provided on a second member in the form of a curved member <NUM>, and the groove <NUM> is provided within a first member in the form of a receiving member <NUM> (a lower surface of groove <NUM> is shown as a dotted line on <FIG>). In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving member <NUM> is a curved bracket and the curved member <NUM> is a spherical member. The joint arrangement <NUM> functions similarly to the joint arrangement <NUM> which is described in detail above.

It will be understood that a number of alternative joint arrangements incorporating one or more grooves <NUM>, <NUM> co-operating with one or more protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> exist. A nonlimiting list of alternative options includes:.

Claim 1:
A surface treatment tool comprising a surface treatment head (<NUM>) and an elongate support member (<NUM>) coupled to the surface treatment head by a joint arrangement (<NUM>, <NUM>),
wherein the surface treatment head (<NUM>) comprises a movable surface treatment element (<NUM>) configured to engage a surface to be treated and a driving means (<NUM>) comprising a motor configured to drive the movable surface treatment element to effect cleaning of said surface,
wherein the joint arrangement (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprises a first member (<NUM>, <NUM>) and a second member (<NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the first member is a receiving member for receiving the second member or wherein the second member is a receiving member for receiving the first member,
wherein the first member (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprises one or more grooves (<NUM>, <NUM>),
wherein the second member (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprises one or more protrusions (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to be located within said one or more grooves (<NUM>, <NUM>) and to move along said one or more grooves (<NUM>, <NUM>) to permit relative rotation of the first member (<NUM>, <NUM>) and the second member (<NUM>, <NUM>) about a first axis (a1),
wherein the one or more protrusions (<NUM>, <NUM>) define a second axis (a2) perpendicular to the first axis (a1) and wherein the first member (<NUM>, <NUM>) is configured to rotate about the one or more protrusions (<NUM>, <NUM>) for relative rotation of the first member (<NUM>, <NUM>) and the second member (<NUM>, <NUM>) about the second axis (a2),
wherein said one or more protrusions (<NUM>, <NUM>) and one or more grooves (<NUM>, <NUM>) are arranged so that rotation of the first member (<NUM>, <NUM>) about a third axis (a3) perpendicular to the first axis (a1) is translated to rotation of the second member (<NUM>, <NUM>) about a fourth axis (a4) perpendicular to the second axis (a2) and/or vice versa.