Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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1
Surface Treatment Tool
FIELD
The present disclosure relates to a surface treatment tool for treating a
surface, for
example, the surface treatment tool may comprise a scrubber dryer machine.
BACKGROUND
Known surface treatment tools, such as scrubber dryer machines, are typically
in
the form of a walk behind machine or a ride on machine. Such machines are
suitable for
cleaning large open areas, for example in an airport or other large space.
However, such
machines are not well suited to treating smaller, difficult to access areas,
such as stairs,
floor edges adjacent walls, washrooms, or surfaces beneath furniture or around
other
obstacles. Therefore a user must use additional equipment, for example a mop
or other
machine, to clean these areas. This increases the time required to complete
the required
cleaning and the associated cost.
Further, known surface treatment tools are typically large and heavy, which
makes
them bulky to operate and difficult to transport from one area to be treated
to another.
The present disclosure seeks to overcome, or at least mitigate, one or more
problems of the prior art.
SUMMARY
According to a first aspect of the disclosure, a surface treatment tool is
provided,
the surface treatment tool comprising: an elongate body comprising a first end
having a
handle with a handgrip portion and a second end distal the first end
configured to be
coupled a surface treatment head; a fluid outlet configured to apply fluid to
a surface to
be treated; and a surface treatment head configured to engage a surface to be
treated
and comprising a suction region configured to suck fluid from a surface to be
treated.
Optionally wherein the elongate body comprises: a fluid tank in fluid
communication with
the fluid outlet; a waste tank in fluid communication with the suction region
and configured
to collect fluid removed from a surface to be treated via the suction region;
and/or a power
source configured to supply power to the surface treatment tool.
Optionally, the elongate body comprises a suction source for sucking fluid
and/or
debris from the suction region to the waste tank.
In this way, a surface treatment tool is provided which is configured both to
apply
a fluid to a surface to be treated and also to remove waste fluid from the
surface. The fluid
tank, waste tank and power source required to achieve this function are
provided on the
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surface treatment tool itself, therefore, no additional equipment is required
in order to
provide these components. Accordingly, a more compact, easy to use surface
treatment
tool is provided.
For example, since the elongate body of the surface treatment tool comprises a
power source, e.g. a battery, no power cable or separate power supply is
required.
Accordingly, this increases the range of surfaces that can be treated.
Similarly, since the
elongate body of the surface treatment tool comprises a waste fluid tank and a
fluid tank,
no separate component comprising a waste fluid tank and/or a separate fluid
supply is
needed.
Furthermore, in the surface treatment tool disclosed herein, each of the fluid
tank,
waste tank and power source components are provided by the elongate body. In
this way,
the number of components located on the surface treatment head is kept to a
minimum.
Accordingly, a surface treatment head which is more compact, has a reduced
height
dimension, has a reduced length dimension and/or has a reduced width dimension
can be
used. This facilitates use of the surface treatment tool in small, hard to
reach areas, and
areas around furniture or other obstacles.
Since the surface treatment tool disclosed herein comprises an elongate body,
it
will be appreciated that it can be operated when a user is standing. This
facilitates use of
the machine, without putting unnecessary strain on the user (e.g. the user
does not need
to bend to use the surface treatment tool on a given surface).
Since the suction source is provided on the surface treatment tool itself, no
additional equipment is required in order to provide this component.
Accordingly, a more
compact, easy to use surface treatment tool is provided.
Furthermore, since the suction source is provided by the elongate body, the
number
of components located on the surface treatment head is kept to a minimum.
Accordingly,
a surface treatment head which is more compact, has a reduced height
dimension, has a
reduced length dimension and/or has a reduced width dimension can be used.
This
facilitates use of the surface treatment tool in small, hard to reach areas,
and areas around
furniture or other obstacles.
In exemplary embodiments, the surface treatment tool is a scrubber dryer,
which
is configured to apply cleaning fluid to a surface to be treated, and to
remove waste fluid
from the surface. In such embodiments, the fluid tank is a cleaning fluid tank
and the fluid
outlet is a cleaning fluid outlet.
Optionally, the elongate body comprises a spine defining a longitudinal axis
extending between the first end and the second end of the elongate body.
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Optionally, the fluid tank and/or the waste tank and/or the power source is
coupled
to the spine.
Optionally, the fluid tank and/or the waste tank and/or the power source is
removably coupled to the spine.
In this way, the fluid tank and/or the waste tank may be removed and easily
replenished or emptied as needed. The power source may be removed for
recharging as
required. In some embodiments, the power source is not removable.
Furthermore, the fluid tank and/or the waste tank and/or the power source may
be
removed and replaced with an alternative. For example in the case of damage,
in the case
where a fluid tank and/or waste tank and/or power source with different
features or
attributes is required, to replace a depleted fluid tank with a full fluid
tank, to replace a
full waste tank with an empty waste tank, and/or to replace a depleted power
source with
a fully charged power source.
This facilitates ease of use and flexibility of use of the surface treatment
tool.
Optionally, the fluid tank is shaped to wrap around at least a portion of the
spine,
and/or wherein the waste tank is shaped to wrap around at least a portion of
the spine.
In this way, the weight of the fluid tank and/or the waste tank is located
closer to
the longitudinal axis of the spine. This provides a more compact surface
treatment tool
and facilitates manoeuvrability
Optionally, the power source is located proximal the spine; optionally wherein
the
fluid tank is shaped to wrap around at least a portion of the power source
and/or wherein
the waste tank is shaped to wrap around at least a portion of the power
source.
In this way, the weight of the power source is located closer to the
longitudinal axis
of the spine. This provides a more compact surface treatment tool and
facilitates
manoeuvrability.
The fluid tank and/or waste tank may also act to protect the power source from
damage.
Optionally, at least two of the fluid tank, the waste tank and the power
source are
coupled to the spine such that the bulk of said two components is located at a
first side of
the spine, optionally wherein the first side corresponds to a treatment
direction when the
surface treatment tool is in normal use.
In other words, a centre of mass of the respective component is located at a
first
side of the spine. In such embodiments, the centre of mass of the fluid tank
and/or the
waste tank is located at a first side of the spine in all fill conditions, in
other words,
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irrespective of a fill level of the respective tank. This facilitates
manoeuvrability of the
surface treatment tool.
Placing the bulk of two of more of the fluid tank, the waste tank and the
power
source at a first side of the spine corresponding to a treatment direction has
been found
to facilitate better control of the surface treatment tool. In particular,
facilitating turning
the direction of treatment in use. For example, when the elongate body is in
use and
inclined at an angle to a surface being treated such that the two or more
components face
away from the surface, rotating the elongate body about the longitudinal axis
in order to
change the direction of the surface treatment tool is facilitated by this
weight distribution
Optionally, the handgrip portion is an elongate handle comprising a
longitudinal
axis which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal body of the elongate
body, optionally
wherein the longitudinal axis of the elongate handle is coaxial with the
longitudinal axis of
the elongate body.
This facilitates the manoeuvrability of the surface treatment tool. For
example,
when the elongate body is positioned such that the longitudinal axis extends
substantially
upright with respect to the surface to be treated, the surface treatment tool
can be used
in a similar manner to a standard mop, thereby facilitating ease of use of the
surface
treatment tool.
Optionally, the spine comprises an interior profile configured to carry: a
fluid supply
path arranged to couple the fluid outlet with the fluid tank, and/or a waste
removal path
arranged to couple the suction region to the waste tank, and/or a power supply
line
arranged to carry power from the power source to the surface treatment head.
By providing the fluid supply path and/or the waste removal path and/or the
power
supply line in an interior profile of the spine, the respective path/line is
protected from
damage and kept out of the way so as not to interfere with use of the surface
treatment
tool. This provides a neater tool arrangement which is both aesthetically
pleasing, easier
to use and less susceptible to damage.
In some embodiments, the spine and/or the handle comprises an interior profile
configured to receive the power source, such that the power source may be
located at
least partially within the spine and/or handle. In some embodiments, the power
source
may be removably located at least partially within the spine and/or handle.
In some embodiments, the power source comprises an elongate portion. In some
embodiments, the elongate portion of the power source is parallel to or
coaxial with the
longitudinal axis of the spine and/or the longitudinal axis of the handle. In
some
embodiments, the elongate portion of the power source is coaxial with the
longitudinal
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axis of the spine and/or the longitudinal axis of the handle when the power
source is
located, at least partially, within the spine.
Optionally, the spine comprises an interior profile defining a volume forming
to at
least part of the fluid supply path, and/or wherein the spine comprises a
profile defining a
5 volume forming to at least part of the waste removal path.
In this way a compact structure is provided in which the fluid supply path
and/or
the waste removal path is protected.
This arrangement also reduces the number of parts required to manufacture the
surface treatment tool, making more efficient use of the spine of the elongate
body, hence
reducing manufacturing costs and materials used.
In some embodiments, the suction source comprises a suction unit.
In some embodiments the suction unit comprises a motor, optionally, a digital
motor.
In some embodiments, the surface treatment tool comprises a waste tank module
comprising the waste tank. In some embodiments, the waste tank module also
comprises
a waste tank receiving structure configured to couple the waste tank to the
spine of the
elongate body.
The waste tank module may define a volume. In some embodiments, the suction
source is coupled directly to the waste tank module such that it is in fluid
communication
with the volume defined by the waste tank module. For example, the suction
source maybe
coupled to the waste tank module such that a seal is formed between the
suction source
and the waste tank module. In some embodiments, the suction source comprises a
seal.
In some embodiments, the suction source is coupled to the waste tank module
via
a hose.
Optionally, the elongate body is coupled to the surface treatment head via
coupling,
wherein the coupling comprises a joint arrangement comprising a first axis and
a second
axis perpendicular to the first rotational axis; optionally, wherein the first
rotational axis
intersects the second rotational axis.
Such a joint arrangement allows the elongate body 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 body 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 body.
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Optionally, the elongate body is coupled to the surface treatment head via a
coupling, wherein the coupling is a resilient coupling such as a spring or
rubber cylinder.
Such a coupling allows the elongate body 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 body.
Optionally, the coupling is offset from the longitudinal axis of the elongate
body.
In other words the elongate body is coupled to the surface treatment head via
a
bent or angled portion which is out of alignment with the elongate body. In
this way,
manoeuvrability of the surface treatment tool is enhanced.
Optionally, the surface treatment head comprises rear edge with respect to a
treatment direction of the surface treatment tool, wherein the rear edge
comprises a first
end, a second end and a middle portion located between the first and second
ends, wherein
the middle portion of the rear edge projects rearward of first and second ends
with respect
to a treatment direction of the cleaner head.
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 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.
In some embodiments, the surface treatment head comprises first and second
ends
which project forward of the middle portion in a treatment direction 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.
Directing waste fluid towards the middle portion may facilitate uptake of
waste fluid
by the suction region and provide an improved drying performance.
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This shape of surface treatment head also facilitates treatment of hard-to-
reach
areas and partial surrounding of objects such as table legs or other
obstacles, thereby
providing effecting treatment of an entire floor area.
Furthermore, in combination with the joint arrangement comprising a first axis
and
a second axis perpendicular to the first rotational axis, this shape of
surface treatment
head results in an easy to use and effective surface treatment tool.
Optionally, the surface treatment head comprises at least a portion comprising
a
curved shaped profile in plan view; and/or wherein the surface treatment head
comprises
at least a portion comprising a substantially V-shaped profile in plan view.
Such a profile shape has been found to provide good treatment performance,
good
manoeuvrability of the surface treatment head, and relatively compact head
size
for treating confined areas and compact storage.
Optionally, the surface treatment head comprises a front edge with respect to
the
treatment direction and a rear edge with respect to the treatment direction,
and wherein
at least one of the front edge and the rear edge are at least partially curved
or V-shaped.
In some embodiments, the surface treatment head comprises any suitably shaped
profile when viewed in plan view. For example, circular, rectangular,
triangular, trapezoidal
or any profile comprising a plurality of vertices in plan view.
In some embodiments the surface treatment head comprises an elongate profile.
In some embodiments, a front edge of the surface treatment head comprises a
straight edge.
Optionally, the surface treatment head comprises the fluid outlet configured
to
apply fluid from the fluid tank to a surface to be treated.
In this way fluid (e.g. cleaning fluid or detergent) can be directly applied
to where
it is needed, thereby facilitating treatment of the surface.
Optionally, the surface treatment head comprises a moveable surface treatment
element configured to engage a surface to be treated and a driving means
comprising a
motor configured to drive the movable surface treatment element.
In some embodiments the motor of the driving means is a digital motor.
Having a movable surface treatment element facilitates improved treatment of a
surface (e.g. via agitating dirt/debris which makes it easier to remove from
the surface).
In some embodiments, the fluid outlet is configured to apply fluid to a region
of the
surface to be treated forward of the moveable surface treatment element with
respect to
a treatment direction. This ensures that the fluid is applied to an area of
the surface which
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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 fluid has been
introduced. This
increases the treatment performance of the surface treatment tool and ease of
use.
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 portion of the moveable surface
treatment element
faces in the same direction throughout the cyclical motion.
For example, 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 define treatment areas of other shapes, which can
enable
easier cleaning of corners. 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 some 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.
Optionally, the suction region is provided proximal the movable surface
treatment
element; optionally, wherein the suction region is provided to a rear of the
movable surface
treatment element with respect to a treatment direction of the surface
treatment tool.
Providing the suction region proximal the movable surface treatment element
has
been found to facilitate improved uptake of waste through the suction region,
since
dirt/debris or fluid agitated by the movable surface treatment element is in
close proximity
to the suction region and is thus easily removed from said surface.
Optionally, the suction region is defined by one or more resilient guide
members;
optionally, wherein the profile of the or each resilient guide member(s) is
complementary
to the profile of the or a movable surface treatment element.
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Optionally, the resilient guide members comprise a first resilient guide
member
provided proximal the or a movable surface treatment element, optionally
wherein the
first resilient guide member is shaped to form openings when in use to permit
fluid to
enter said suction region when the surface treatment tool is moved in a
treatment
direction.
Such a suction region has been found to be particularly effective for uptake
of fluid
from a surface to be treated.
Optionally, the suction region is defined, at least in part, by first and
second
resilient guide members.
According to a further aspect of the disclosure, a surface treatment tool is
provided,
the surface treatment tool comprising: an elongate body comprising a first end
having a
handle with a handgrip portion and a second end distal the first end
configured to be
coupled a surface treatment head; a fluid outlet configured to apply fluid to
a surface to
be treated; and a surface treatment head comprising a chassis configured to be
coupled
to a treatment portion arranged to engage a surface to be treated when in use,
the surface
treatment head comprising a suction region configured to suck fluid from a
surface to be
treated. Optionally wherein the elongate body comprises: a fluid tank in fluid
communication with the fluid outlet; a waste tank in fluid communication with
the suction
region and configured to collect fluid removed from a surface to be treated
via the suction
region; and/or a power source configured to supply power to the surface
treatment tool.
According to a further aspect of the disclosure, a surface treatment tool is
provided
comprising: an elongate body comprising a first end having a handle with a
first handgrip
portion and a second end distal the first end configured to be coupled a
surface treatment
head; and a surface treatment head comprising a chassis configured to be
coupled to a
treatment portion arranged to engage a surface to be treated when in use;
wherein the
elongate body comprises a second handgrip portion spaced apart from the first
handgrip
portion.
By providing spaced apart handgrip portions in this way, the user can use two
hands to
control and manoeuvre the surface treatment tool. For example the user can
control the
surface treatment tool such that the treatment head is moved side-to-side as
the user
walks forwards or backwards. In some embodiments, surface treatment head is
manoeuvred such that a front edge of the treatment head always faces a forward
direction
with respect to a direction of motion of the treatment head, i.e. such that
the direction of
motion is along the treatment direction. In this way, the user can use a
traditional mopping
motion, e.g. whilst walking backwards to avoid walking on the treated surface.
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Optionally, the surface treatment head comprising a suction region configured
to suck fluid
from a surface to be treated. Optionally the surface treatment tool comprises
a fluid outlet
configured to apply fluid to a surface to be treated.
5
Optionally, the handle comprises both the first and second handgrip portions.
Optionally
the handle comprises a first handle comprising the first handgrip portion, and
the elongate
body comprises a second handle comprising the second handgrip portion.
10 Optionally, the first and second handgrip portions are spaced
apart by 70cnn or less, for
example between 10 and 50cm, for example between 20 and 30 cm, e.g. 25cm.
Optionally, the elongate body is shaped such that at least a portion of the
elongate body
comprises a curved profile. In some embodiments, the first and/or second
handle is located
at the curved profile. In this way, use of the surface treatment tool by
simply pushing the
tool in a forward direction with respect to a user (i.e. a user walking behind
the tool in
use) can be facilitated.
Optionally, the first handgrip portion and the second handgrip portion are
substantially
parallel to each other, e.g. co-axial.
In some embodiments, the first handgrip portion and the second handgrip
portion are
angled in relation to each other, e.g. at an acute angle to each other, e.g.
at an angle of
45 or less to each other. In this way, use of the surface treatment tool by
simply pushing
the tool in a forward direction with respect to a user (i.e. a user walking
behind the tool in
use) can be facilitated.
According to a further aspect of the disclosure a surface treatment head for a
surface treatment tool is provided, the surface treatment head comprising: a
first
treatment component having a first surface treatment element configured to
engage a
surface to be treated; a second treatment component having a second surface
treatment
element configured to engage said surface to be treated; and a bracket
arrangement
configured to couple the first and second treatment components together; and
wherein
the bracket arrangement is configured such that when a load is applied to the
bracket
arrangement, the load is distributed between the first and second treatment
components
and applied to said surface to be treated.
It will be understood that a load applied to the first and second treatment
components will improve contact between each of the first and second treatment
elements
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and the surface to be treated, which facilitates effective treatment of the
surface by the
surface treatment elements.
Therefore, the bracket arrangement being configured to distribute a load
applied
thereto between the first and second treatment components facilitates
effective treatment
by the first and second surface treatment elements. By distributing the load
in this way,
the first and second surface treatment elements do not become overloaded, and
so
performance of the first and second surface treatment elements is optimised,
without the
need for additional support structures on the surface treatment head (e.g.
wheels).
Optionally, the first treatment component comprises a body and the first
treatment
element is a movable surface treatment element configured for movement with
respect to
the body, optionally wherein the first treatment component comprises a driving
means
configured to drive the movable surface treatment element to effect treatment
of said
surface to be treated.
Such a movable surface treatment element facilitates effective treatment (e.g.
cleaning) of the surface, since it increases the amount of movement relative
to the surface
(e.g. over that provided by movement of the surface treatment head alone). For
example,
the movable surface treatment element may be a rotatable pad, brush, and/or
sponge. In
some embodiments, the surface treatment element is a pad, brush, and/or sponge
which
is driven by an eccentric drive mechanism so that it engages a surface to be
treated in a
cyclical motion, optionally wherein the surface treatment element comprises a
portion
(e.g. a front portion, a surface or an edge) which faces in substantially the
same direction
(e.g. forwards with respect to a treatment direction) throughout the entire
cyclical motion.
It will be understood that a load applied to the first treatment component
will
facilitate effective treatment (e.g. cleaning) by the movable surface
treatment element,
since the load will cause an increase in frictional forces between the movable
surface
treatment element and the surface to be treated as the movable surface
treatment
element is driven by the driving means.
Optionally, the second treatment element comprises a suction region configured
to
suck fluid from said surface to be treated; optionally, wherein the suction
region is defined
by one or more resilient members, the one or more resilient members comprising
front
and rear elongate squeegee blades.
It will be understood that a load applied to the second treatment component
will
facilitate effective sealing between the suction region and the surface to be
treated, since
the contact between the suction region and the surface to be treated (e.g.
between one
or more squeegees defining the suction region and the surface) is improved by
said load.
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When resting on the surface to be treated, such squeegee blades will flex when
a
load is applied through bracket arrangement to the second treatment component.
This
improves contact between the squeegee blades and the surface to be treated
which
improves sealing of the suction region.
In exemplary embodiments, the first treatment component may comprise: a body
and a moveable surface treatment element configured for movement with respect
to the
body; a body and a static surface treatment element configured to move in
unison with
the body; and/or a suction region configured to suck debris (e.g. fluid) from
a surface.
In exemplary embodiments, the second treatment component may comprise: a
body and a moveable surface treatment element configured for movement with
respect to
the body; a body and a static surface treatment element configured to move in
unison
with the body; and/or a suction region configured to suck debris (e.g. fluid)
from a surface.
The moveable and/or static surface treatment element may comprise pad, brush
and/or sponge, or any other suitable element.
Optionally, the bracket arrangement is configured such that when a load is
applied
to the bracket arrangement a first predetermined amount of said load is
applied to the
first treatment component and a second predetermined amount of said load is
applied to
the second treatment component; wherein the first predetermined amount is in
the range
of 30 to 70%, optionally 40 to 60%, optionally 45% to 55%, of the total load
applied to
the bracket arrangement; and/or wherein the second predetermined amount is in
the
range of 30 to 70 k, optionally 40 to 60%, optionally 45% to 55% of the total
load applied
to the bracket arrangement.
Such ranges of the first and second predetermined amounts provides sufficient
load
to the first and second treatment components to facilitate effective treatment
by the first
and second surface treatment elements.
In some embodiments, 50% of the load applied to the bracket arrangement is
transferred to the first treatment component and 50% of the load applied to
the bracket
arrangement is transferred to the second treatment component.
Optionally, the entire load applied to the bracket arrangement is transferred
to the
first and second treatment elements.
In other words the entire load applied to the bracket arrangement is
distributed
between the first and second treatment elements, for application to said
surface.
In other words, the first predetermined amount is transferred to the first
treatment
element, the second predetermined amount is transferred to the second
treatment
element, and the sum of the first and second predetermined amounts is 100% of
the load
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applied to the bracket arrangement (in contrast to systems in which a portion
of the load
applied to the surface treatment head is transferred to separate wheels or
other guiding
members). This improves contact between each of the first and second treatment
elements
and the surface to be treated, which improves performance of the surface
treatment head.
Such a configuration is particularly beneficial for lightweight (e.g. hand-
guided)
tools, since it transfers all load applied to the surface treatment head to
the functional
areas (i.e. first and second treatment elements, e.g. for cleaning or
suction). In this way,
a higher pressure per unit area can be achieved for a given load.
Optionally, the bracket arrangement is configured to couple the first and
second
treatment components together such that relative movement therebetween is
permitted.
The first and second treatment components being coupled such that relative
movement therebetween is permitted facilitates engagement of each respective
surface
treatment element with a surface to be treated, even when the surface is
irregular (i.e.
not flat). In other words, this facilitates surface tracking as the surface
treatment head
moves over uneven surfaces. Put another way, the first and second surface
treatment
elements remain in close contact with the surface, even when the surface is
irregular,
thereby facilitating treatment of the surface.
Optionally, the bracket arrangement is configured to couple the first and
second
treatment components together such that relative movement therebetween is
permitted
in a direction perpendicular to the surface to be treated.
The first and second treatment components being coupled such that relative
movement therebetween is permitted in a direction perpendicular to the surface
facilitates
engagement of each component with a surface having varying heights (i.e. a
stepped or
otherwise uneven/undulating surface). In some embodiments, where the surface
is
substantially horizontal, relative vertical movement between the first and
second
treatment components is permitted.
In other words, as the surface treatment head moves over an uneven/undulating
surface the first and second treatment components can rise or fall with
respect to each
other as they pass over undulations in the surface (i.e. this facilitates
maintaining close
contact between the surface treatment head and the surface as the surface
treatment
head moves over uneven surfaces).
Optionally, the first treatment component is pivotally coupled to the bracket
arrangement and/or wherein the second treatment component is pivotally coupled
to the
bracket arrangement.
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14
The first and/or second treatment components being pivotally coupled to the
bracket arrangement facilitates engagement of the first and/or second
treatment
components with angled portions of an uneven surface.
Optionally, the bracket arrangement is configured to be pivotally coupled to
an
elongate body, and both of the first and second treatment components are
pivotally
coupled to the bracket arrangement such that relative linear movement between
the first
and second treatment components is permitted.
In other words, by simultaneous pivoting of the first and second treatment
components in the same direction relative to the bracket arrangement, and
pivoting of the
bracket arrangement relative to an elongate body, linear movement between the
first and
second treatment components is achieved.
This provides a simple and stable arrangement for facilitating relative
movement
between the first and second treatment components in a direction perpendicular
to a
surface to be treated.
Optionally, the surface treatment head comprises a limiting mechanism
configured
to limit relative movement between the first and second treatment components;
optionally, wherein the limiting mechanism is adjustable.
Limiting the relative movement between the first and second treatment
components (i.e. only permitting relative movement within a range of angles
and/or
distances) improves the stability of the surface treatment head whilst still
permitting a
certain degree of movement for good engagement with uneven surfaces.
The limiting mechanism being adjustable (i.e. the extent to which it limits
relative
movement between the first and second treatment components being adjustable)
provides
flexibility between increasing stability of the surface treatment head (by
limiting relative
movement to a greater extent) and increasing the ability for the first and
second treatment
components to track an uneven surface (by limiting relative movement to a
lesser extent).
Optionally, the bracket arrangement comprises a first connection structure
pivotally
coupled to the first treatment component, wherein the first connection
structure and first
treatment component are configured to interact to define a permitted range of
movement
therebetween, and/or a second connection structure pivotally coupled to the
second
treatment component, wherein the second connection structure and second
treatment
component are configured to interact to define a permitted range of movement
therebetween.
Optionally, the first treatment component comprises one or more abutment
surfaces configured to abut the first connection arrangement to limit relative
movement
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between the first treatment component and the bracket arrangement, optionally,
wherein
the one or more abutment surfaces of the first treatment component comprise
two
abutment surfaces configured to abut opposing sides of the first connection
structure to
define a maximum and minimum of the permitted range of movement.
5
Optionally, the second treatment component comprises one or more abutment
surfaces configured to abut the second connection arrangement to limit
relative movement
between the second treatment component and the bracket arrangement,
optionally,
wherein the one or more abutment surfaces of the second treatment component
comprise
two abutment surfaces configured to abut opposing sides of the second
connection
10 structure to define a maximum and minimum of the permitted range of
movement.
Such an arrangement provides an effective mechanism for limiting relative
pivoting
between the respective treatment component and the bracket arrangement.
Having two abutment surfaces on opposing sides of the respective connection
structure allows pivoting to be limited in both directions.
15
Optionally, each abutment surface is angled relative to a surface contact
plane
defined by the respective surface treatment element.
Having an angled abutment surface increases the contact area between the
respective connection structure and the abutment surface. For example, the
respective
connection structure and angled surface may be parallel when in abutment with
each
other.
Optionally, at least one abutment surface is movable to adjust the extent to
which
the respective treatment component is free to pivot with respect to the
bracket
arrangement; optionally, wherein a distance between said abutment surface and
the
respective connection structure is adjustable; and/or optionally, wherein an
angle of said
abutment surface relative to a surface contact plane defined by the respective
surface
treatment element is adjustable.
At least one abutment surface being movable to adjust the extent to which
relative
pivoting between the respective surface treatment component and the respective
connection structure provides flexibility between increasing stability of the
surface
treatment head (by limiting relative pivoting to a greater extent) and
increasing the ability
for the respective surface treatment component to track (i.e. remain in close
contact with)
an uneven surface (by limiting relative pivoting to a lesser extent).
In some embodiments, the or each abutment surface is coupled to the respective
treatment component via an attachment mechanism (e.g. comprising complementary
threads), wherein the distance between said abutment surface and the
respective
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connection structure is adjustable by adjustment of the attachment mechanism
(e.g. by
relative rotation between the complementary threads).
For example, the or each abutment surface may be comprise a bolt, screw or
other
threaded fastener coupled to a complementary threaded bore in the respective
treatment
component, or vice versa.
Optionally, the surface treatment head is configured to restrict pivoting of
the first
and second treatment components relative to each other to a pre-determined
range of
movement.
As the surface treatment head is moved along a surface in a treatment
direction,
friction between the respective surface treatment element and the surface may
urge the
rearmost surface treatment component (with respect to a treatment direction)
to pivot to
such an extent that the rearmost surface treatment element lifts or disengages
from the
surface to some extent. For example, when the rearmost surface treatment
element
comprises a suction region, this may cause a seal between a rear of the
suction region
and the surface to be broken.
The surface treatment head being configured to restrict pivoting of the first
and
second surface treatment components relative to each other inhibits such an
undesirable
pivoting of the rearmost surface treatment component when in use, which
improves
performance of the second surface treatment element. For example, when the
rear surface
treatment element comprises a suction region, this may improve suction
performance.
Optionally, the first and/or second treatment component comprises one or more
structures configured to co-operate with the second and/or first treatment
component to
limit relative movement therebetween; optionally, wherein the one or more
structures are
configured to limit pivoting of the first and second treatment components
relative to each
other beyond a predetermined amount; and/or optionally, wherein the one or
more
structures are provided proximal first and second ends of the surface
treatment head;
and/or optionally, wherein the one or more structures are configured to co-
operate with
one or more complementary structures of the second and/or first treatment
component to
limit pivoting of the first and second treatment components relative to each
other beyond
a predetermined amount.
In exemplary embodiments, the or each structure comprises a projection. In
some
embodiments, the one or more projections are configured to co-operate with a
surface
(e.g. upper, lower or side surface) of the second and/or first treatment
component to limit
pivoting of the first and second treatment components relative to each other
beyond a
predetermined amount.
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In exemplary embodiments, the one or more structures and/or complementary
structures comprises a surface (e.g. upper, lower or side surface) of the
first and/or second
treatment component; optionally, wherein the surface(s) of the first treatment
component
is configured to abut the complementary surface(s) of the second treatment
component.
In exemplary embodiments, the or each projection comprises a bar and the or
each
complementary structure comprises a cylindrical structure such as a bush
configured to
permit vertical movement of the bar, but limit pivotal movement.
It will be appreciated that any structure and complementary structure that are
configured to cooperate to permit vertical movement of the bar, but limit
pivotal
movement may be used.
Such an arrangement of one or more structures (e.g. projections and/or tabs)
provides an effective mechanism for restricting pivoting of the first and
second surface
treatment components relative to each other.
The one or more structures being configured to cooperate with (e.g. engage and
disengage) a surface of the second and/or first surface treatment component to
permit a
limited range of relative pivotal movement between the first and second
surface treatment
components facilitates close contact of the surface treatment elements with
uneven floors.
First and second ends of surface treatment head may have a greater frictional
force
applied as they move over a surface to be treated (particularly when the first
and second
ends project forwards of a middle portion of the second treatment component in
a
treatment direction of the surface treatment head). Therefore, the one or more
structures
being provided proximal the first and second ends improves their effectiveness
for
restricting relative pivoting.
Optionally, the bracket arrangement comprises one or more arms coupled to the
first treatment component and/or wherein the bracket arrangement comprises one
or
more arms coupled to the second treatment component.
Optionally, the bracket arrangement comprises a plurality of arms coupled to
the
respective treatment component such that the arms are arranged on either side
of a
central axis of the respective treatment component extending along a treatment
direction,
optionally, such that the arms are symmetrically positioned with respect to
the central
axis.
Optionally, the bracket arrangement comprises a plurality of arms each coupled
to
the respective treatment component along a transverse axis extending
perpendicular to a
treatment direction, optionally, wherein the transverse axis defines a
midpoint between
frontmost and rearmost portion of the respective treatment component.
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This spreads out the application of load from the bracket arrangement across
the
respective first and second treatment components. In this way, smooth movement
of the
surface treatment head across the surface is facilitated.
Optionally, the first treatment component comprises a driving means and the
transverse axis is aligned with a midpoint of the driving means (e.g. wherein
the midpoint
corresponds to a centre of gravity of the driving means). In some embodiments,
the
transverse axis is proximal a midpoint of the driving means, optionally
extending behind
a midpoint of the driving means (i.e. towards a rear of the first treatment
component.
In this way it has been found that forward motion of the surface treatment
head is
facilitated.
In some embodiments, the first transverse axis extends within a centre third
of the
first treatment component, between a frontmost and rearmost point of the first
treatment
component.
In some embodiments, the first and/or second treatment component comprises an
upper surface and one or more of said arms is coupled to the respective upper
surface.
Coupling arms to the upper surface provides a simple connection arrangement.
In some embodiments, the first and/or second treatment component comprises an
upper surface and the surface treatment head is configured such that one or
more of said
arms is coupled to the respective component at a connection point. In some
embodiments,
one or more connection point is provided at the respective upper surface. In
some
embodiments, one or more connection point is provided below the respective
upper
surface, when the surface treatment head is in an upright position on a
horizontal surface,
such that each arm is partly located below the respective upper surface.
In some embodiments, the first and/or second treatment component comprises an
upper surface and one or more arm recesses provided in the upper surface,
wherein said
at least one arm is coupled to the respective treatment component within a
respective arm
recess such that each arm is partly located below the respective upper
surface.
Such an arrangement has been found to provide good distribution of load from
the
bracket arrangement to the first and/or second treatment component, since it
is applied
closer to a centre of mass of the respective treatment component. In addition,
by partly
locating each arm below the respective upper surface, an overall height of the
surface
treatment head 10 can be reduced.
Optionally, the surface treatment head comprises a fluid outlet configured to
introduce cleaning liquid to said surface to be treated; optionally, wherein
the frontmost
treatment component comprises the fluid outlet; optionally, wherein the fluid
outlet is
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provided on a front region of the first and/or treatment component with
respect to a
treatment direction of the surface treatment head.
Such a fluid outlet facilitates improved cleaning of a surface (e.g. when
detergents
or the like are applied via the fluid outlet to the surface to be treated).
The fluid outlet being located on the frontnnost treatment component and/or on
a
front region of the first and/or second treatment component with respect to a
treatment
direction of the surface treatment head ensures that cleaning liquid is
applied to an area
of the surface to be treated before the respective surface treatment element
passes over
it, which improves cleaning performance.
In exemplary embodiments, the first and/or second surface treatment element
comprises a treatment portion releasably coupled to the respective treatment
component;
optionally, wherein the treatment portion comprises a releasable cleaning pad,
brush
and/or sponge.
In exemplary embodiments, the first and/or second surface treatment element
comprises a drivable portion coupled to the or a driving means of the
respective treatment
component and the treatment portion is releasably coupled to the drivable
portion.
In some embodiments, the first and/or second treatment element comprises an
intermediate component (e.g. a support plate) configured such that the
treatment portion
is coupled to the drivable portion via the intermediate component; optionally,
wherein the
intermediate component is coupled (e.g. releasably) to the treatment portion
and/or
coupled (e.g. releasably) to the drivable portion (e.g. via a magnetic
coupling, snap-fit
coupling, threaded coupling such as a thumb screw, interference fit coupling,
resilient/elasticated coupling and/or hook-and-eye coupling). In some
embodiments, the
treatment portion is configured to be coupled (e.g. releasably) directly to
the drivable
portion.
In some embodiments, the treatment portion is releasable coupled to the
drivable
portion via a magnetic coupling, snap-fit coupling, threaded coupling such as
a thumb
screw(s), interference fit coupling, resilient/elasticated coupling, hook-and-
eye coupling
and/or any suitable coupling means.
In exemplary embodiments, the first and/or second surface treatment element
comprises one or more squeegee blades releasably coupled to the respective
treatment
component.
According to a further aspect of the disclosure a surface treatment head for a
surface treatment tool is provided, the surface treatment head comprising: a
first
treatment component configured for coupling to a first surface treatment
element
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configured to engage a surface to be treated; a second treatment component
configured
for coupling to a second surface treatment element configured to engage said
surface to
be treated; and a bracket arrangement configured to couple the first and
second treatment
components together; and wherein the bracket arrangement is configured such
that when
5 first and second treatment elements are coupled to the respective
treatment components
in use and a load is applied to the bracket arrangement, the load is
distributed between
the first and second treatment components and applied to said surface to be
treated.
It will be understood that a load applied to the first and second treatment
components will improve contact between each of the first and second treatment
elements
10 (when coupled to the respective treatment components in use) and the
surface to be
treated, which facilitates effective treatment of the surface by said surface
treatment
elements.
Therefore, the bracket arrangement being configured to distribute a load
applied
thereto between the first and second treatment components facilitates
effective treatment
15 by said first and second surface treatment elements (when coupled to the
respective
treatment components in use).
According to a further aspect of the disclosure a surface treatment tool is
provided,
the surface treatment tool comprising a surface treatment head as disclosed
herein and
an elongate body configured to be coupled to the bracket arrangement.
20 Such
a surface treatment tool allows the surface treatment head to be guided on a
surface to be treated by the elongate body and/or a handle coupled thereto.
Optionally, the second treatment element comprises a suction region configured
to
suck fluid and/or debris from said surface to be treated; optionally wherein
the surface
treatment tool comprises a waste tank in fluid communication with the suction
region;
optionally wherein the surface treatment tool comprises a suction source for
sucking fluid
from the suction region to the waste tank; and/or optionally, wherein the
surface
treatment tool comprises a fluid tank and the surface treatment head comprises
a fluid
outlet configured to apply cleaning liquid from the fluid tank to said surface
to be treated.
Such a suction source and waste tank allows fluid and/or debris sucked from
the
surface to be stored before being disposed of.
Such a fluid tank and fluid outlet facilitate improved cleaning of a surface
by the
first surface treatment element of the first treatment component (e.g. when
detergents or
the like are applied from the fluid tank via the fluid outlet to the surface
to be treated).
Optionally, the elongate body is coupled to the bracket arrangement by a joint
arrangement; optionally, wherein the joint arrangement is configured to permit
pivoting
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21
of the elongate body with respect to the surface treatment head about a first
axis and
about a second axis, wherein the second axis is perpendicular to the first
axis; optionally,
wherein the second axis intersects the first axis.
Such a joint arrangement allows the surface treatment head to be effectively
guided over a surface to be treated in variety of directions. In combination
with the bracket
arrangement being configured to distribute load between the first and second
treatment
components, this facilitates effective treatment of said surface to be
treated.
According to a further aspect of the disclosure a squeegee assembly for use
with a
surface treatment device is provided, the squeegee assembly comprising an
elongated
squeegee blade and a mounting arrangement for supporting the squeegee blade,
wherein
the elongated squeegee blade comprises a fixed portion secured by the mounting
arrangement and a flexible wiper configured to contact a surface to be treated
when in
use;
wherein the squeegee assembly comprises a support formation configured to
cooperate
with the squeegee blade, optionally to control deflection of the squeegee
blade, optionally
such that at least a portion of the flexible wiper is arranged to extend in a
generally
rearward direction, optionally such that deflection of at least said portion
of the flexible
wiper in a generally forward direction is inhibited.
It will be understood that, as a squeegee blade moves in a generally forward
direction over a surface to be treated the squeegee blade will move more
freely when the
flexible wiper extends in a generally rearward direction (e.g. is angled or
curved towards
the rearward direction). In other words, the squeegee blade can move more
smoothly over
the surface.
Furthermore, the flexible wiper extending towards the generally rearward
direction
(e.g. being angled or curved towards the rearward direction) improves
performance of the
flexible wiper because a sharp corner of the squeegee blade contacts the
surface to be
treated rather than the entire bottom edge of the squeegee. This results in a
decreased
contact area and thus a greater load-to-contact area ratio, which helps the
flexible wiper
to seal against the surface to be treated more effectively and therefore
facilitates improved
guiding of fluid on the surface by the flexible wiper.
In typical surface treatment tools (e.g. scrubber dryer machines), the
squeegee
blade(s) are flexible and a weight acting on the squeegee blade(s), and/or
friction between
the flexible wiper(s) and the surface to be treated, facilitates
angling/curving of the flexible
wiper(s) relative to the surface to be treated in use. However, this can be
unreliable,
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22
particularly with lighter tools or those which frequently change direction,
such as smaller
hand-guided machines.
In addition, when a typical squeegee blade changes direction quickly on a
surface
to be treated (e.g. pivoting about a central portion of the squeegee blade)
one side of the
flexible wiper is urged in a first direction while the other side of the
flexible wiper is urged
in a second direction. This can result in different sides of the flexible
wiper being angled
in different directions, which breaks a constant line of contact between the
flexible wiper
and the surface to be treated, leading to reduced performance of the squeegee
blade (e.g.
reduced removal or control of fluid on the surface).
Therefore, having a support formation configured to cooperate with the
squeegee
blade (e.g. to direct at least a portion of the squeegee blade) such that at
least a portion
of the flexible wiper is arranged to extend in a generally rearward direction,
and optionally
such that deflection of at least said portion of the flexible wiper in a
generally forward
direction is inhibited, facilitates an optimal orientation of the flexible
wiper regardless of
the forces or movements applied to the squeegee assembly when in use.
Furthermore, since the position of the squeegee blade is controlled, at least
to some
degree, the weight which can be applied directly to the squeegee blade without
causing
unwanted deflection of the squeegee blade is greater. Accordingly, in some
embodiments,
it is possible to dispense with wheels or other guides that are often present
on surface
treatment devices. Such wheels reduce the amount of load that can be applied
to the
squeegee, reducing the amount of pressure applied by the squeegee to the
surface.
Therefore, a simple and more streamlined device can be provided.
Optionally, the squeegee blade comprises a first end and a second end and a
length
extending therebetween, such that the fixed portion and the flexible wiper
extend between
the first and second ends, and wherein the support formation is configured to
cooperate
with the squeegee blade such that at least a portion of the flexible wiper
proximal the first
end and/or at least a portion of the flexible wiper proximal the second end is
arranged to
extend in a generally rearward direction, optionally such that deflection of
at least the
respective portion of the flexible wiper in a generally forward direction is
inhibited.
It will be understood that portions of a flexible wiper proximal the first and
second
ends are most vulnerable to flexing in unwanted directions when the squeegee
blade is
moved on a surface. Therefore, the support formation being configured to
cooperate with
the squeegee blade such that at least a portion of the flexible wiper proximal
the first
and/or second end extends rearwards, and optionally is inhibited from flexing
forwards,
facilitates an optimal orientation of the first and/or second ends of the
flexible wiper (which
are most vulnerable to flexing in use).
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Optionally, the support formation is configured to cooperate with the squeegee
blade such that the flexible wiper is arranged to extend in a generally
rearward direction
along the entire length of the squeegee blade, optionally such that deflection
of the flexible
wiper in a generally forward direction is inhibited along the entire length of
the squeegee
blade.
The support formation being configured to cooperate with the squeegee blade
such
that the flexible wiper extends rearwards, and optionally is inhibited from
flexing forwards,
across the entire length of the squeegee blade facilitates optimal orientation
of the flexible
wiper along its entire length.
Optionally, the squeegee blade comprises a front surface facing in a generally
forward direction, and a rear surface, facing in a generally rearward
direction.
Optionally, in use, the front surface of the squeegee blade forms a contact
angle
with a surface to be treated, wherein the support formation is configured to
cooperate with
the squeegee blade such that the contact angle is an acute angle, and such
that deflection
of the flexible wiper such that the contact angle is greater than 90 is
inhibited; optionally,
wherein the support formation is configured to cooperate with the squeegee
blade such
that the contact angle is in the range of 35 to 55'; optionally, wherein the
support
formation is configured to cooperate with the squeegee blade such that the
contact angle
is substantially 45 . Optionally wherein the support formation is configured
to cooperate
with the squeegee blade such that the contact angle varies along a length of
the squeegee
blade. Optionally the contact angle increases proximal the first and/or second
ends of the
squeegee blade. In this way, control of the orientation of the squeegee blade
is facilitated.
Such an acute contact angle has been found to facilitate effective movement of
the
flexible wiper over a surface to be treated, and to provide good contact
between the
flexible wiper and the surface to be treated (e.g. for directing fluid on a
surface and/or
creating a seal with the surface).
Optionally, the support formation is configured to cooperate with at least a
portion
of the front surface and/or rear surface of the squeegee blade.
The support formation cooperating with the front and/or rear surface provides
a
simple means for suitably arranging and inhibiting flexing of the flexible
wiper.
Optionally, the support formation comprises a front support structure
configured to
contact the front surface of the squeegee blade and/or a rear support
structure configured
to contact the rear surface of the squeegee blade.
Such a front and/or rear support structure provides a simple means for
suitably
arranging and inhibiting flexing of the flexible wiper.
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24
Having a rear support structure configured to contact the rear surface of the
squeegee blade inhibits the squeegee blade from flexing too far in the
rearward direction.
In this way, a greater load can be applied to the squeegee blade without over-
flexing than
could be applied if no rear support structure was present. Allowing a greater
application
of load results in a better contact between the flexible wiper and the surface
to be treated,
and thus a better performance of the squeegee blade (e.g. improved guiding of
fluid on
said surface to be treated).
Optionally the front support structure is not provided.
Optionally, the rear support structure may comprise a rigid structure.
Optionally,
the rear support structure may comprise another squeegee.
Optionally, the respective support structure is configured to contact the
respective
surface along a continuous line of contact, and/or is configured to contact
the respective
surface at one or more discrete points (e.g. a series of discrete points).
The support structure(s) contacting the respective surface along a continuous
line
of contact ensures that the flexible wiper is supported by the support
structure(s) along
the entire continuous line of contact.
The support structure(s) contacting the respective surface at one or more
discrete
points (e.g. a series of discrete points) provides a simple means of ensuring
that the
flexible wiper is supported by the support structure(s).
Optionally, the front support structure and/or the rear support structure
comprises
a guide projection (e.g. a guide wall) angled such that the projection extends
in a generally
rearward direction.
The front and/or rear support structure being angled such that the guide
projection(s) extend in a generally rearward direction facilitates angling of
the flexible
wiper. In some embodiments, the respective guide projection of the front
support structure
and/or rear support structure comprises a contact face arranged to contact the
respective
front or rear surface of the squeegee blade. In this way, the contact area
between the
support structure(s) and the respective surface(s) of the flexible wiper is
increased (e.g.
in contrast to a support structure which contacts the flexible wiper at a
single point or line
of contact).
Optionally, the elongated squeegee blade is a rear elongated squeegee blade
and
wherein the squeegee assembly further comprises a front elongated squeegee
blade
supported by the mounting arrangement, wherein the squeegee assembly comprises
a
suction region defined, at least in part, by the front and rear elongated
squeegee blades.
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Such an arrangement of front and rear squeegee blades has been found to be
effective for removing liquid from a surface to be treated (e.g. when used as
part of a
scrubber dryer machine).
Optionally, the support formation of the rear elongated squeegee blade is a
first
5 support formation, wherein the front elongated squeegee blade comprises a
fixed portion
secured to the mounting arrangement and a flexible wiper configured to contact
a surface
to be treated when in use, wherein the squeegee assembly comprises a second
support
formation configured to cooperate with the front squeegee blade such that at
least a
portion of the flexible wiper of the front squeegee blade is arranged to
extend in a generally
10 rearward direction, optionally such that deflection of at least said
portion of the flexible
wiper of the front squeegee blade in a generally forward direction is
inhibited.
Having a second support formation configured to cooperate with the front
squeegee
blade (e.g. to direct at least a portion of the front squeegee blade) such
that at least a
portion of the flexible wiper of the front squeegee blade is arranged to
extend in a generally
15 rearward direction and such that deflection of at least said portion of
the flexible wiper of
the front squeegee blade in a generally forward direction is inhibited,
facilitates an optimal
orientation of the flexible wiper of the front squeegee blade regardless of
the forces or
movements applied to the squeegee assembly when in use.
Optionally, the front squeegee blade comprises a first end and a second end
and a
20 length extending therebetween, such that the fixed portion and the
flexible wiper of the
front squeegee blade extend between the first and second ends of the front
squeegee
blade, and wherein the second support formation is configured to cooperate
with the front
squeegee blade such that at least a portion of the flexible wiper of the front
squeegee
blade proximal the first end and/or at least a portion of the flexible wiper
of the front
25 squeegee blade proximal the second end is arranged to extend in a
generally rearward
direction, and such that deflection of at least the respective portion of the
flexible wiper of
the front squeegee blade in a generally forward direction is inhibited.
It will be understood that portions of a flexible wiper proximal the first and
second
ends are most vulnerable to flexing in opposite directions when the squeegee
blade is
moved on a surface. Therefore, the second support formation being configured
to
cooperate with the front squeegee blade such that at least a portion of the
flexible wiper
of the front squeegee blade proximal the first and/or second end of the front
squeegee
blade extends rearwards and is inhibited from flexing forwards, facilitates an
optimal
orientation of the first and/or second ends of the flexible wiper of the front
squeegee blade
(which are most vulnerable to flexing in use).
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26
Optionally, the second support formation is configured to cooperate with the
front
squeegee blade such that the flexible wiper of the front squeegee blade is
arranged to
extend in a generally rearward direction along the entire length of the front
squeegee
blade, and such that deflection of the flexible wiper of the front squeegee
blade in a
generally forward direction is inhibited along the entire length of the front
squeegee blade.
The second support formation being configured to cooperate with the front
squeegee blade such that the flexible wiper of the front squeegee blade
extends rearwards
and is inhibited from flexing forwards across the entire length of the front
squeegee blade
facilitates optimal orientation of the flexible wiper of the front squeegee
blade along its
entire length.
Optionally, the front squeegee blade comprises a front surface facing in a
generally
forward direction, and a rear surface, facing in a generally rearward
direction.
Optionally, in use, the front surface of the front squeegee blade forms a
contact
angle with a surface to be treated, wherein the second support formation is
configured to
cooperate with the front squeegee blade such that the contact angle is an
acute angle,
and such that deflection of the flexible wiper of the front squeegee blade
such that the
contact angle is greater than 90 is inhibited; optionally, wherein the
support formation is
configured to cooperate with the squeegee blade such that the contact angle is
in the
range of 35 to 55'; optionally, wherein the support formation is configured
to cooperate
with the squeegee blade such that the contact angle is substantially 45 .
Such an acute contact angle has been found to facilitate effective movement of
the
flexible wiper of the front squeegee blade over a surface to be treated, and
to provide
good contact between the flexible wiper of the front squeegee blade and the
surface to be
treated (e.g. for directing fluid on a surface and/or creating a seal with the
surface).
Optionally, the second support formation is configured to cooperate with at
least a
portion of the front surface and/or rear surface of the front squeegee blade.
The second support formation cooperating with the front and/or rear surface of
the
front squeegee blade provides a simple means for suitably arranging and
inhibiting flexing
of the flexible wiper of the front squeegee blade.
Optionally, the second support formation comprises a front support structure
configured to contact the front surface of the front squeegee blade and/or a
rear support
structure configured to contact the rear surface of the front squeegee blade.
Such a front and/or rear support structure of the second support formation
provides
a simple means for suitably arranging and inhibiting flexing of the flexible
wiper of the
front squeegee blade.
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27
Optionally, the respective support structure of the second support formation
is
configured to contact the respective surface of the front squeegee blade along
a continuous
line of contact, and/or is configured to contact the respective surface of the
front squeegee
blade at one or more discrete points (e.g. a series of discrete points).
The support structure(s) of the second support formation contacting the
respective
surface along a continuous line of contact ensures that the flexible wiper of
the front
squeegee blade is supported by the support structure(s) of the second support
formation
along the entire continuous line of contact.
The support structure(s) of the second support formation contacting the
respective
surface at one or more discrete points (e.g. a series of discrete points)
provides a simple
means of ensuring that the flexible wiper of the front squeegee blade is
supported by the
support structure(s) of the second support formation.
Optionally, the front support structure of the second support formation and/or
the
rear support structure of the second support formation comprises a guide
projection (e.g.
a guide wall) angled such that the projection extends in a generally rearward
direction.
The front and/or rear support structure being angled such that the guide
projection(s) extend in a generally rearward direction facilitates angling of
the flexible
wiper. In some embodiments, the respective guide projection of the front
support structure
and/or rear support structure comprises a contact face arranged to contact the
respective
front or rear surface of the squeegee blade. In this way, the contact area
between the
support structure(s) and the respective surface(s) of the flexible wiper is
increased (e.g.
in contrast to a support structure which contacts the flexible wiper at a
single point or line
of contact).
Optionally, the front and rear elongated squeegee blades are coupled together
to
form a continuously sealed suction region.
The front and rear squeegee blades being coupled together to form a
continuously
sealed suction region reduces the suction power required to remove liquid from
the suction
region and reduces noise levels.
Optionally, the suction region is defined by a resilient member formed as a
continuous loop, wherein the resilient member comprises the front and rear
elongate
squeegee blades.
The front and rear squeegee blades being defined by a resilient member formed
as
a continuous loop (e.g. the front and rear squeegee blades being integrally
formed) is a
simple means of sealing the suction region to reduce the suction power
required to remove
liquid from the suction region and reduces noise levels.
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Optionally, the front elongated squeegee blade comprises a first end and a
second
end, and the rear elongated squeegee blade comprises a first end and a second
end.
Optionally, the front and rear elongated squeegee blades are gripped together
or
arranged to contact each other in use at the respective first ends and/or the
respective
second ends.
The front and rear squeegee blades being gripped together or arranged to
contact
each other in use at the respective first and/or second ends increases the
effectiveness of
the seal between the front and rear squeegee blades, which reduces the suction
power
required to remove liquid from the suction region and reduces noise levels.
Optionally, the front elongated squeegee blade comprises a fixed portion
secured
by the mounting arrangement and a flexible wiper configured to contact a
surface to be
treated when in use, wherein the front and rear elongated squeegee blade
comprise a
respective first edge proximal the respective fixed portion and a respective
second edge
proximal the respective flexible wiper, the respective first and second edges
defining a
respective height therebetween.
Optionally, proximal the first and/or second ends of the respective elongated
squeegee blade, the fixed portion of the front elongate squeegee blade is
mounted further
from a surface to be treated than that of the rear elongated squeegee blade,
when in use.
It will be understood that the squeegee assembly will be driven in a treatment
direction (i.e. in the generally forward direction) in use, which will urge
the front squeegee
blade towards the rear squeegee blade.
Having the fixed portion of the front squeegee blade mounted further from a
surface to be treated than the fixed portion of the rear squeegee blade
proximal the first
and/or second ends (i.e. at locations where the distance between the front and
rear
squeegee blades is at a minimum) inhibits the front squeegee blade from
passing
underneath the rear squeegee blade and separating the rear squeegee blade from
the
ground. Therefore, this inhibits breakage of a seal between the suction region
and a
surface on which the squeegee blades rest.
In other words, having the fixed portion of the front squeegee blade mounted
further from a surface to be treated than the fixed portion of the rear
squeegee blade
proximal the first and/or second ends facilitates a closer arrangement of the
front and rear
squeegee blades at the first and/or second ends (which facilitates improved
sealing at the
first and/or second ends of the suction region), whilst maintaining a seal
between the
suction region and a surface on which the squeegee blades rest.
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Furthermore, mounting the fixed portion of the front squeegee blade further
from
a surface (e.g. as opposed to modifying the height of the ends of the front
squeegee blade
by having a tapered blade profile) allows a standard front squeegee blade of
constant
height to be used in the squeegee assembly.
Optionally, the front elongate squeegee blade is mounted further from a
surface to
be treated than the rear elongated squeegee blade by a distance in the range
of 0.5mm
to 2mm, optionally in the range of 0.75mm to 1.5mm, optionally by
substantially 1mm.
Such distances have been found to be effective for inhibiting disengagement of
the
rear squeegee blade whilst keeping the front squeegee blade engaged with a
surface to
be treated.
Optionally, the front elongate squeegee blade and the mounting arrangement
comprise a series of lugs and receivers configured to receive the lugs,
wherein proximal
the first and/or second end of the front elongated squeegee blade, when the
front elongate
squeegee blade is mounted on the mounting arrangement, the lugs and receivers
are
located further from a surface to be treated than those proximal a central
portion of the
front elongate squeegee blade, when in use.
Such an arrangement of lugs and receivers provides a simple means of raising
the
first and/or second sides of the front squeegee blade relative to the central
portion of the
front squeegee blade.
Optionally, proximal the first and/or second ends of the respective elongated
squeegee blades, the height of the front elongate squeegee blade is less than
the height
of the rear squeegee blade.
The front squeegee blade having a height which is less than the height of the
rear
squeegee blade towards the first and/or second ends provides a simple means of
inhibiting
the front squeegee blade from passing underneath the rear squeegee blade and
separating
the rear squeegee blade from the ground. Therefore, this inhibits breakage of
a seal
between the suction region and a surface on which the squeegee blades rest.
In other words, the front squeegee blade having a height which is less than
the
height of the rear squeegee blade towards the first and/or second ends
facilitates a closer
arrangement of the front and rear squeegee blades at the first and/or second
ends (which
facilitates improved sealing at the first and/or second ends of the suction
region), whilst
maintaining a seal between the suction region and a surface on which the
squeegee blades
rest.
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Optionally, the height of the front elongate squeegee blade is less than the
height
of the rear elongated squeegee blade by an amount in the range of 0.5mm to
2mm,
optionally in the range of 0.75mm to 1.5mm, optionally by substantially 1mm.
Such distances have been found to be effective for inhibiting disengagement of
the
5 rear squeegee blade whilst keeping the front squeegee blade engaged with
a surface to
be treated.
Optionally, the or each squeegee blade comprises a first end and a second end
and
a length extending therebetween, wherein the or each squeegee blade comprises
a central
portion located between the first and second ends, and wherein the first and
second ends
10 project forwards of the central portion of the squeegee assembly.
Having first and second ends which project forwards of the central portion of
the
squeegee assembly (e.g. having a V-shape, U-shape, crescent shape or any other
suitable
shape in which the ends project forwards of the central portion) is an
effective
configuration for guiding liquid on a surface to be treated, since it
effectively funnels liquid
15 towards the central portion as the squeegee assembly is moved in a
treatment direction
(i.e. a forward direction).
Optionally, the squeegee assembly is configured such that a load applied to
the
mounting arrangement is applied to a surface to be treated exclusively by the
flexible
wiper(s) of the squeegee blade(s).
20 The
squeegee assembly being configured such that a load applied to the mounting
arrangement is applied to a surface to be treated exclusively by the flexible
wiper(s) of
the squeegee blade(s) (i.e. the squeegee assembly not having wheels or other
components
which engage a surface to be treated and distribute a portion of the load
applied to the
mounting arrangement) improves contact between the flexible wiper(s) of the
squeegee
25 blade(s), which results in better guiding of fluid on a surface by the
flexible wiper(s) and
a better seal between the flexible wiper(s) and said surface (e.g. when the
squeegee
blade(s) at least partly define a suction region). This also enables a
simpler, lighter and
more streamlined device to be provided.
According to a further aspect of the disclosure surface treatment head for a
surface
30 treatment tool is provided, the surface treatment head comprising a
squeegee assembly
as disclosed herein; optionally, wherein the surface treatment head comprises:
a joint
arrangement configured for coupling to an elongate body of a surface treatment
tool,
wherein the joint arrangement is configured to permit pivoting of the surface
treatment
head with respect to said elongate body about a first axis, and optionally
about a second
axis perpendicular to the first axis, optionally wherein the second axis
intersects the first
axis; and/or a surface treatment element configured to engage a surface to be
treated,
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31
optionally wherein the surface treatment element is movable and the surface
treatment
head comprises a driving means comprising a motor configured to drive the
movable
surface treatment element to effect cleaning of said surface; and/or a fluid
outlet
configured to introduce cleaning liquid to a surface to be treated; and/or a
squeegee
assembly as disclosed here, and a suction connection arrangement configured to
connect
the suction region to a source of suction of a surface treatment tool.
Such a surface treatment head benefits from the advantages of the squeegee
assembly disclosed herein.
Such a joint arrangement facilitates easy movement of the surface treatment
head
and quick changing of direction of movement of the surface treatment head. In
combination with the features of the squeegee assembly disclosed herein (which
facilitate
optimal arrangement of the squeegee blade(s) regardless of the forces or
movements
applied to the squeegee assembly when in use), such a surface treatment head
facilitates
effective treatment (e.g. cleaning) of a surface to be treated.
Such a surface treatment element facilitates treatment (e.g. cleaning) of a
surface
to be treated.
Such a fluid outlet facilitates application of cleaning liquid which improves
the
cleaning performance of the surface treatment element.
Such a suction region and suction connection arrangement facilitate drying
and/or
removal of waste liquid/particles from a surface to be treated when connected
to a source
of suction.
According to a further aspect of the disclosure, a surface treatment tool is
provided,
the surface treatment tool comprising an elongate body coupled to a surface
treatment
head as disclosed herein.
Such a surface treatment tool benefits from the advantages of the squeegee
assembly and surface treatment head disclosed herein. In addition, the
elongate body
facilitates simple guiding of the surface treatment head along a surface to be
treated.
Optionally, the surface treatment tool is a scrubber dryer tool comprising a
source
of suction coupled to said suction region.
Such a scrubber dryer tool benefits from the advantages of the squeegee
assembly
and surface treatment head disclosed herein.
According to a further aspect of the disclosure, a squeegee assembly for use
with
a surface treatment device is provided, the squeegee assembly comprising a
mounting
arrangement for supporting an elongated squeegee such that said elongated
squeegee
blade comprises a fixed portion secured by the mounting arrangement and a
flexible wiper
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32
configured to contact a surface to be treated when in use; wherein the
squeegee assembly
comprises a support formation configured to cooperate with said squeegee
blade,
optionally to control deflection of the squeegee blade, optionally such that
at least a portion
of said flexible wiper is arranged to extend in a generally rearward
direction, optionally
such that deflection of at least said portion of said flexible wiper in a
generally forward
direction is inhibited.
According to a further aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a surface
treatment head for a surface treatment tool, the surface treatment head
comprising: a
chassis comprising one or more guide portions configured to dampen impact of
the surface
treatment head with other structures when in use; and a surface treatment
element
coupled to the chassis and configured to engage a surface to be treated,
wherein the
surface treatment element defines a treatment area of a surface to be treated.
Optionally,
wherein the one or more guide portions extend within, up to or beyond the
treatment
area.
In other words, the one or more guide portions may be contained within the
perimeter of the treatment area, may extend up to the perimeter of the
treatment area or
may extend beyond the perimeter of the treatment area.Having one or more guide
portions configured to dampen impact of the surface treatment head with other
structures
when in use inhibits the surface treatment element from hitting or scuffing
any adjacent
structure(s) (e.g. walls, furniture or the like) when the surface treatment
head is moved
close to the adjacent structure(s). This inhibits damage of the adjacent
structure(s) and/or
reduces noise. For example, when in use to treat a floor adjacent a wall, the
guide portions
prevent the surface treatment element hitting against or scuffing the wall.
Having one or more guide portions which extend up to or beyond the treatment
area (i.e. arranged such that the surface treatment element does not extend
beyond the
one or more guide element portions in use) inhibits the surface treatment
element from
hitting or scuffing any adjacent structure(s) (e.g. walls, furniture or the
like) when the
surface treatment head is moved close to the adjacent structure(s). This
inhibits damage
of the adjacent structure(s) and/or reduces noise. For example, when in use to
treat a
floor adjacent a wall, the guide portions prevent the surface treatment
element hitting
against or scuffing the wall.
In some embodiments, the surface treatment element is configured to be static
with respect to the chassis or a portion of the chassis (e.g. a body of the
chassis). In such
embodiments, the treatment area of the surface to be treated corresponds to
the area of
the surface treatment element which is configured to contact the surface to be
treated
when in use.
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In some embodiments, the guide portions are configured to extend in a
direction
parallel to the surface to be treated.
In some embodiments, the guide portions are displaced with respect to a
surface
to be treated (i.e. spaced apart from a surface to be treated) in a direction
perpendicular
to the surface. It will be appreciated that the guide portions are arranged to
be contained
within the treatment area, or extend up to or beyond the treatment area when
the surface
treatment head is viewed in a plan view (i.e. top down view with respect to a
surface to
be treated).
Optionally, the surface treatment element is configured for movement with
respect
to the chassis in order to effect treatment of a surface. The surface
treatment head may
comprise a driving means configured to drive movement of the surface treatment
element
relative to the chassis to effect treatment of said surface, wherein movement
of the surface
treatment element defines a perimeter of the treatment area and wherein the
one or more
guide portions extend up to or beyond the perimeter of the treatment area.
In other words, when the surface treatment element is moveable, the treatment
area corresponds to the area defined by the surface treatment element
throughout its full
range of movement (i.e. taking the position of the chassis to be fixed). Put
another way,
the treatment area corresponds to the area of the surface which is treated by
the surface
treatment element during its full range of movement (i.e. when the chassis
remains in a
constant position with respect to the surface).
The perimeter of the treatment area corresponds to a boundary of movement of
the surface treatment element. In other words, the surface treatment element
does not
move beyond this boundary (i.e. taking the position of the chassis to be fixed
with respect
to the surface).
Such a movable surface treatment element facilitates improved treatment (e.g.
cleaning) as compared to a static surface treatment element.
In some embodiments, the one or more guide regions extending up to or beyond
the perimeter of the treatment area (i.e. being arranged such that the surface
treatment
element does not extend beyond the one or more guide regions throughout the
entire
range of movement of the surface treatment element), inhibits the surface
treatment
element from hitting or scuffing any adjacent structure(s) or wall(s) as it
moves. This
inhibits damage of the adjacent structure(s) or wall(s). This may also reduce
noise
associated with the surface treatment element hitting against the adjacent
structure(s) or
wall(s).
Optionally, the driving means comprises an eccentric drive mechanism
configured
such that the moveable surface treatment element engages a surface to be
treated in a
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cyclical motion in which a portion of the moveable surface treatment element
faces in
substantially the same direction throughout the cyclical motion. For example,
a front
portion of the moveable surface treatment element faces substantially forwards
throughout the cyclical motion. In such embodiments, movement of the surface
treatment
element throughout the cyclical motion defines the perimeter of the treatment
area, and
wherein the one or more guide portions extend up to or beyond the perimeter of
the
treatment area.
Such a cyclical motion of the surface treatment element facilitates use of a
straight-
sided surface treatment element which can clean into corners of a surface
(e.g. in contrast
to a circular/rotating surface treatment element which cannot go right into
the corner of
a surface). This facilitates improved treatment (e.g. improved cleaning) of a
surface.
Such a cyclical motion could result in the surface treatment element
repeatedly
moving towards and away from an adjacent structure (i.e. wall, furniture or
the like), e.g.
in an oscillating fashion, which would result in a banging or vibrating motion
which could
damage the adjacent structure and/or create a loud noise. Therefore, having
the one or
more guide regions configured to dampen impact of the surface treatment head
with other
structures when in use (e.g. to extend up to or beyond the perimeter of the
treatment
area (i.e. arranged such that movement of the surface treatment element in
said cyclical
motion does not extend beyond the one or more guide regions through the entire
movement cycle)) inhibits such a banging or vibrating motion against adjacent
structures
which inhibits damage and/or noise.
Optionally, the one or more guide portions comprise one or more guide elements
coupled to the chassis.
Optionally, the chassis comprises a body having a periphery and wherein the
one
or more guide elements are coupled to the body such that they are located
proximal the
periphery of the body.
In some embodiments, the chassis comprises a body having a periphery
comprising
the one or more guide portions. In some embodiments, each of the one or more
guide
portions comprises a portion of the body.
Optionally, the surface treatment element comprises one or more recesses for
at
least partly accommodating the one or more guide elements; and/or wherein the
body
comprises one or more recesses for at least partly accommodating the one or
more guide
elements.
Such recesses reduce the extent to which the guide elements project beyond the
perimeter of the treatment area and/or the periphery of the body. In other
words, such
recesses allow the guide elements to be at least partly positioned within the
lateral and
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vertical extent of the surface treatment element and/or body (e.g. as opposed
to being
positioned entirely on top, below or to the side of the surface treatment
element and/or
body), wherein "lateral" refers to a direction substantially parallel to a
surface to be
treated, and "vertical" refers to a direction substantially perpendicular to a
surface to be
5
treated. In other words, the guide elements can be positioned at least
partially within a
footprint defined by the surface treatment element and/or body in the lateral
and/or
vertical directions. This provides a compact surface treatment head which
facilitates
cleaning of small spaces (e.g. between or under furniture).
Optionally, the or each recess is recessed with respect to an upper surface of
the
10
surface treatment element and/or an upper surface of the body; and/or wherein
the or
each recess is recessed with respect to a lower surface of the surface
treatment element
and/or a lower surface of the body; and/or wherein the or each recess is
recessed with
respect to a side surface of the surface treatment element and/or a side
surface of the
body.
15 Such
recesses reduce the extent to which the guide elements project above, below
or to the side of the surface treatment element and/or body. In other words,
such recesses
allow the guiding elements to be at least partly positioned within the
vertical and/or lateral
extent of the surface treatment element and/or body (e.g. as opposed to being
positioned
entirely on top, below or to the side of the surface treatment element and/or
body). This
20
provides a compact surface treatment head which facilitates cleaning of spaces
with low
overhead coverage (e.g. under furniture) and enable the surface treatment
element to
clean close to or up to surface edges (e.g. next to walls).
Optionally, the surface treatment head comprises a first end and a second end,
wherein the first end is provided at a first side with respect to a treatment
direction and
25
wherein the second end is provided at a second side with respect to a
treatment direction,
wherein the one or more guide elements are provided proximal the first and/or
second
ends.
When in use, a surface treatment head may be moved forwards along a surface to
be treated with one of the first and second ends running next to (e.g. along)
a
30
perpendicular structure such as a side wall or piece of furniture. Therefore,
having the one
or more guide elements proximal the first and/or second ends facilitates easy
movement
of the respective first and/or second ends along the perpendicular structure
without
excessive friction and/or without causing damage to the perpendicular
structure.
Optionally, the one or more guide elements comprise a pair of guide elements
which
35
define a line linking outermost points on the pair of guide elements, wherein
the line
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extends within the treatment area, along an edge of the treatment area or is
located
outside of the treatment area.
In some embodiments, the line may coincide with an edge of the treatment area,
but does not extend further into the treatment area.
Having such a pair of guide elements has been found to be an effective
arrangement for facilitating easy movement of the surface treatment head
adjacent to
perpendicular structures such as side walls and/or furniture. For example,
when the line
linking outermost points on the pair of guide elements extends along an edge
of the
treatment area or is located outside of the treatment area, and is arranged
adjacent to a
perpendicular structure (i.e. with the outermost points of the guide elements
in contact
with the perpendicular structure), because the line extends along an edge of
or is located
outside of the treatment area, the surface treatment element will extend no
further than
the line.
Optionally, the one or more guide elements comprise a pair of first-side guide
elements which define a first-side line linking outermost points on the first-
side guide
elements, wherein the first-side line extends within the treatment area, along
an edge of
the treatment area or is located outside of the treatment area, and wherein
the first-side
line is arranged on a first side of the treatment area; and/or wherein the one
or more
guide elements comprise a pair of second-side guide elements which define a
second-side
line linking outermost points on the second-side guide elements, wherein the
second-side
line extends within the treatment area, along an edge of the treatment area or
is located
outside of the treatment area, and wherein the second-side line is arranged on
a second
side of the treatment area.
Having guide elements defining such first-side and/or second-side lines
facilitates
easy movement of either side of the surface treatment head along perpendicular
structures
such as walls or furniture.
Optionally, the one or more guide elements comprise a pair of front guide
elements
which define a front line linking outermost points on the front guide
elements, wherein the
front line extends within the treatment area, along an edge of the treatment
area or is
located outside of the treatment area, and wherein the front line is arranged
on a front
side of the treatment area.
Having guide elements defining such a front-side line facilitates easy
movement of
the front of the surface treatment head along perpendicular structures such as
walls or
furniture. It will be understood that the two front guide elements may
comprise front guide
elements of the first-side and second-side guide elements (e.g. the first-
side, second-side
and front guide elements may comprise four guide elements in total with two of
the guide
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37
elements being part of both the front guide element pair and a respective side
guide
element pair).
Optionally, the or each guide element comprises a roller, wheel or ball.
Rollers or wheels offer a simple and reliable means of reducing friction and
spacing
the surface treatment element from a perpendicular structure.
Balls can rotate in a plurality of directions to reduce friction, which is
useful in
scenarios where the surface treatment head is moved along a perpendicular
structure in
multiple directions (e.g. transversely and vertically at the same time).
Optionally, the chassis comprises one or more mounting arrangements, and
wherein each guide element is mounted in a respective mounting arrangement
such that
each guide element is configured for rotation with respect to the chassis;
optionally,
wherein the chassis comprises a body comprising the one or more mounting
arrangements.
In embodiments where the or each guide element comprises a ball, each mounting
arrangement may be configured to permit rotation of the ball in a plurality of
directions
with respect to the mounting arrangement.
Optionally, the one or more mounting arrangements each extend below an upper
surface of the surface treatment element, and wherein the surface treatment
element is
recessed around the one or more mounting arrangements; and/or wherein the one
or
more mounting arrangements each extend from a side surface of the surface
treatment
element in a direction towards the surface treatment element, and wherein the
surface
treatment element is recessed around the one or more mounting arrangements.
Having the mounting arrangement(s) extend below the upper surface of the
surface
treatment element allows the height of the roller/wheel to be increased to
improve contact
with a perpendicular surface whilst inhibiting or limiting the extent to which
the
roller/wheel protrudes above an upper surface of the chassis.
Having the mounting arrangement(s) extend below the upper surface of the
surface
treatment element allows the height of the ball to be increased to provide a
more robust
ball whilst inhibiting or limiting the extent to which the roller/wheel
protrudes above an
upper surface of the chassis.
Having the mounting arrangement(s) extend from a side surface of the surface
treatment element in a direction towards the surface treatment element allows
the width
of the roller/wheel/ball to be increased to provide a more robust
roller/wheel/ball whilst
inhibiting or limiting the extent to which the roller/wheel protrudes above an
upper surface
of the chassis.
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The surface treatment element being recessed around the one or more mounting
arrangements facilitates increased overall size of the surface treatment
element (i.e.
increased overall size of the treatment area) for a given chassis size (e.g.
in comparison
to having a surface treatment element which has no recesses and is instead
sized smaller
to fit between the mounting arrangements). This increased surface treatment
element size
(i.e. increased treatment area size) facilitates cleaning closer to the edges
of a surface to
be treated.
Optionally, the one or more guide elements are removably mounted to the
chassis.
This increases the life of the surface treatment head, as the guide elements
can be
replaced when worn. This also facilitates use of different types of guide
elements for
different perpendicular structures.
Optionally, the one or more guide portions are configured to reduce friction
between the surface treatment head and a structure arranged perpendicular to
the surface
to be treated when the surface treatment head is moved adjacent to said
perpendicular
structure in use.
The one or more guide portions being configured to reduce friction (e.g. being
movable rollers, wheels or balls, and/or being formed of a material with a low
coefficient
of friction) facilitates movement of the surface treatment head along a
structure arranged
perpendicular to a surface to be treated (e.g. side walls, furniture and/or
other
perpendicular structures). In other words, such guide portions facilitate easy
cleaning of
edges of a surface to be treated.
Optionally, the guide portions are spaced apart from a surface to be treated
in a
direction perpendicular to the surface.
It will be appreciated that the guide portions are arranged to extend within
the
treatment area, up to or beyond the treatment area when the surface treatment
head is
viewed in a plan view (i.e. top-down view with respect to a surface to be
treated).
Optionally, the surface treatment element is replaceable.
This increases the life of the surface treatment head, as the surface
treatment
element can be replaced when worn. This also facilitates use of different
types of surface
treatment elements for different surfaces to be treated (e.g. sponges,
brushes, pads or
the like).
Optionally, the surface treatment head comprises a fluid outlet for
introduction of
cleaning fluid to the surface to be treated.
This facilitates more effective cleaning of a surface to be treated.
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Optionally, the surface treatment head comprises a suction region for sucking
fluid
and/or debris from the surface to be treated.
This facilitates drying of a surface to be treated (e.g. after the
introduction of
cleaning fluid).
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.
If such a surface treatment element was pushed against a structure
perpendicular
to the surface to be treated (e.g. side wall or furniture), the cyclical
motion of the surface
treatment element would cause the surface treatment element to repeatedly hit
the
perpendicular structure (e.g. it would vibrate against the perpendicular
structure). This
could cause damage to the perpendicular structure and/or produce unwanted
noise.
Therefore, having one or more guiding portions configured to dampen impact of
the surface treatment head with other structures when in use (e.g. which
extend up to or
beyond the treatment area (i.e. configured to space the movable surface
treatment
element from a structure perpendicular to the surface to be treated) inhibits
the movable
surface treatment element hitting or scuffing the perpendicular structure as
it is driven in
a cyclical motion by the driving means. This inhibits damage of the
perpendicular
structure(s) and/or reduces noise.
According to a further aspect of the disclosure a surface treatment tool is
provided,
the surface treatment tool comprising an elongate body coupled to a surface
treatment
head as disclosed herein.
Such a surface treatment tool has all of the benefits of the surface treatment
head
disclosed herein.
Further, the guide portions facilitate steering of the surface treatment tool.
According to a further aspect of the disclosure a surface treatment element
for
coupling to a chassis of a surface treatment head is provided, the surface
treatment
element comprising: an upper surface, a lower surface and a periphery
extending between
the upper and lower surfaces; wherein the surface treatment element comprises
one or
more recesses in the upper surface and/or lower surface and/or periphery for
accommodating a guide element and/or a mounting arrangement for a guide
element.
The surface treatment element having one or more recesses in the upper surface
and/or lower surface and/or periphery for accommodating a guide element and/or
a
mounting arrangement for a guide element allows the surface treatment element
to fit
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right to the edge of the surface treatment head in the non-recessed portions
(for improved
treatment of edges of a surface to be treated), whilst offering a space to
accommodate
the guide element(s)/mounting arrangement(s) which facilitates a reduced
height of the
surface treatment head.
5
Optionally, the surface treatment element comprises a rear edge with respect
to a
treatment direction, having a first end, a second end and a middle portion
located between
the first and second ends, wherein the middle portion projects rearwards of
the first and
second ends with respect to a treatment direction of the surface treatment
element.
According to a further aspect of the invention a treatment portion for a
surface
10
treatment element is provided, wherein the treatment portion is configured for
coupling
to a drivable portion of a surface treatment tool to form said surface
treatment element,
wherein the treatment portion comprises an edge comprising 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 a treatment direction of the
treatment
15
portion; optionally, wherein the treatment portion comprises a pad, brush
and/or sponge.
Optionally wherein the edge of the treatment portion is a rear edge with
respect to
the treatment direction, or wherein the edge of the treatment portion is a
front edge with
respect to the treatment direction; or wherein the treatment portion comprises
a front
edge and a rear edge, wherein each of the front and rear edges comprise a
first end, a
20
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 a treatment
direction of the
treatment portion.
In some embodiments, the treatment portion comprises an intermediate
component (e.g. a support plate), wherein the intermediate component is
configured to
25 be
coupled (e.g. releasably) to said drivable portion; 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 some
embodiments, the
treatment portion is configured to be coupled (e.g. releasably) directly to
the drivable
portion.
30
According to a further aspect of the invention a surface treatment head for a
surface
treatment tool is provided, the surface treatment head comprising: a chassis
comprising
one or more guide portions configured to dampen impact of the surface
treatment head
with other structures when in use; a drivable portion configured to be coupled
to a
treatment portion arranged to engage a surface to be treated, wherein the
drivable portion
35 is
coupled to the chassis and configured for movement with respect to the
chassis,
wherein, in use, the drivable portion and the treatment portion form a surface
treatment
element which defines a treatment area of a surface to be treated; and a
driving means
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41
configured to drive movement of the drivable portion relative to the chassis,
wherein the
driving means comprises an eccentric drive mechanism configured such that,
when in use,
the surface treatment element is configured to engage a surface to be treated
in a cyclical
motion in which a portion of the surface treatment element faces in
substantially the same
direction throughout the cyclical motion, wherein movement of the surface
treatment
element throughout the cyclical motion defines a perimeter of the treatment
area.
Optionally wherein the one or more guide portions extend within, up to or
beyond the
perimeter of the treatment area.
In some embodiments, the surface treatment head comprises an intermediate
component (e.g. a support plate) configured to be coupled (e.g. releasably) to
said
drivable portion and releasably coupled to said treatment portion. In some
embodiments,
the treatment portion is configured to be coupled (e.g. releasably) directly
to the drivable
portion.
It will be appreciated that any of the optional features disclosed herein may
be
applied to any of the aspects of the disclosure. All possible combinations are
not recited
herein for the sake of brevity.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with
reference to the following figures in which:
Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a surface treatment tool according
to
an embodiment;
Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a spine of the surface treatment tool of
Figure
1;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a surface treatment head of the surface
treatment
tool of Figure 1, according to an embodiment;
Figure 4 is a plan view of the surface treatment head of Figure 3;
Figure 5 is a side view of the surface treatment head of Figures 3 and 4,
taken in
cross-section along line A-A of Figure 4;
Figure 6 is an enlarged view of a limiting mechanism of Figure 5;
Figure 7 is a side view of the surface treatment head of Figures 3 to 6, taken
in
cross-section along line B-B of Figure 4;
Figure 8 is a side view of the surface treatment head of Figures 3 to 7, taken
in
cross-section along line C-C of Figure 4;
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Figure 9 is a schematic representation of the surface treatment head view of
Figures
3 to 8;
Figure 10 is a perspective view of a surface treatment head of the surface
treatment
tool of Figure 1, according to a further embodiment;
Figure 11 is a plan view of the surface treatment head of Figure 10;
Figure 12 is a schematic representation of the surface treatment head view of
Figures 10 and 11;
Figure 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a squeegee assembly of the
surface
treatment heads of Figures 3 to 12, according to an embodiment;
Figure 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a squeegee assembly of the
surface
treatment heads of Figures 3 to 12, according to a further embodiment;
Figure 15 is a perspective view of an end of the squeegee assemblies of
Figures 13
and 14;
Figure 16 is a front view of the squeegee assembly of Figure 13;
Figure 17 a schematic representation of the movable surface treatment element
and guide elements of the surface treatment heads of Figures 3 to 12;
Figure 18 is an enlarged view of an end of the surface treatment head of
Figure 4;
and
Figure 19 a schematic representation of a movable surface treatment element
and
a body with guide portions of a surface treatment head, according to a further
embodiment;
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring firstly to Figure 1, a surface treatment tool is indicated at 200.
The surface
treatment tool 200 has an elongate body 202 with a first end 204, having a
handle 206
with a first handgrip portion 208a and a second handgrip portion 208b, and a
second end
210 distal the first end 204 configured to be coupled to a surface treatment
head 10.
The surface treatment tool 200 has a fluid outlet 212 (as shown in Figure 5)
configured to apply fluid to a surface S to be treated. In the illustrated
embodiment, the
fluid outlet 212 is provided on the surface treatment head 10. As will be
described in more
detail below, the surface treatment head 10 also includes a suction region 106
(as shown
in Figure 5) configured to suck fluid from the surface S to be treated.
The elongate body 202 includes: a fluid tank 214 in fluid communication with
the
fluid outlet 212; a waste tank 216A in fluid communication with the suction
region 106
and configured to collect fluid and/or debris removed from the surface S via
the suction
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43
region 106; and a power source 218 configured to supply power to the surface
treatment
tool 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongate body 202 also includes
user controls
220 for controlling operation of the surface treatment tool 200.
In the illustrated embodiment, the elongate body 202 includes a spine 222
defining
a longitudinal axis AL extending between the first end 204 and the second end
206 of the
elongate body 202. The fluid tank 214, waste tank 216A and power source 218
are each
removably coupled to the spine 222.
In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid tank 214 is shaped to wrap around a
portion
of the spine 222 and the waste tank 216A is shaped to wrap around a portion of
the spine
222. In the illustrated embodiment, the power source 218 is located proximal
the spine
222 and the fluid tank 214 is also shaped to wrap around a portion of the
power source
218. In alternative embodiments, the waste tank 216A is shaped to wrap around
a portion
of the power source 218.
In the illustrated embodiment, each of the fluid tank 214, the waste tank 216A
and
the power source 218 are coupled to the spine 222 such that the bulk of the
fluid tank
214, the waste tank 216A and the power source 218 is located at a first side
224 of the
spine 222. In other words, while the fluid tank 214 and waste tank 216A
partially wrap
around the spine 222 (and thus have portions behind the first side 224), the
majority of
these components 214, 216A, 218 is located at the first side 224. In the
illustrated
embodiment, the first side 224 corresponds to a treatment direction Dt when
the surface
treatment tool 200 is in normal use. In alternative embodiments, one or more
of the fluid
tank 214, waste tank 216A, and/or power source 218 is located on an opposite
side of the
spine 222 to the first side 224.
In the illustrated embodiment, the first handgrip portion 208a is an elongate
handle
with a longitudinal axis At, which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis AL of
the elongate
body 202 (i.e. the longitudinal axis AL of the spine 222). In alternative
embodiments, the
longitudinal axis An of the first handgrip portion 208a is parallel to, but
not coaxial with,
the longitudinal axis AL of the elongate body 202 (i.e. the longitudinal axis
AL of the spine
222).
In the illustrated embodiment, the second handgrip portion 208b is an elongate
handle with a longitudinal axis AI which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis
AL of the
elongate body 202 (i.e. the longitudinal axis AL of the spine 222). In
alternative
embodiments, the longitudinal axis A of the second handgrip portion 208b is
parallel to,
but not coaxial with, the longitudinal axis AL of the elongate body 202 (i.e.
the longitudinal
axis AL of the spine 222).
In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second handgrip portions 208a,b
are
substantially parallel to each other and co-axial with each other. The first
and second
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44
ha ndgrip portions 208a,b are spaced apart from each other along the elongate
body 202.
In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second handgrip portions 208a,b
are spaced
apart from each other by about 20-30cm, e.g. 25cm.
With reference to Figure 2, the spine 222 has an interior profile 226
configured to
carry a fluid supply path arranged to couple the fluid outlet 212 with the
fluid tank 214,
and/or a waste removal path arranged to couple the suction region 106 to the
waste tank
216A, and/or a power supply line arranged to carry power from the power source
218 to
the surface treatment head 10.
In some embodiments (not shown), the interior profile 226 of the spine 222 is
configured to receive the power source 218 such that the power source 218 may
be located
at least partially within the spine 222. In other embodiments, the handle 206
has an
interior profile configured to receive the power source 218 such that the
power source 218
may be located at least partially within the handle 206. In other embodiments,
the power
source 218 is partially located within the interior region 226 of the spine
222 and partly
located within an interior region of the handle 206.
In such embodiments, the power source 218 may be removably located at least
partially within the spine 222 and/or handle 206. As shown in Figure 1, the
power source
218 has an elongate portion 218a (i.e. a lower portion as viewed in the
figure). In
embodiments where the power source 218 is removably located within the spine
222, the
elongate portion 218a of the power source 218 is coaxial with the longitudinal
axis AL of
the spine 222, when the power source 218 is located at least partly within the
spine 222.
As illustrated in Figure 2, the interior profile 226 of the spine 222 defines
a volume
Vf corresponding to the fluid supply path between the fluid tank 214 and fluid
outlet 212.
It will be understood that such a fluid path runs from the fluid tank 214,
downwards
through volume Vf to the second end 210 of the spine 222 and through a fluid
conduit (not
shown) to the fluid outlet 212 on the surface treatment head 10. The interior
profile 226
also defines a volume Vw corresponding to the waste removal path between the
suction
region 106 and the waste tank 216A. It will be understood that such a waste
path runs
from the suction region 106 of the surface treatment head 10, through a
suction
connection arrangement 138 (e.g. a pipe in the embodiment of Figure 1) and
then upwards
through volume Vw to the waste tank 216A via connection point 223. In other
embodiments, part of the fluid supply path and/or waste removal path may be
provided
within a profile of the spine 222 (e.g. a recess on an outer surface of the
spine 222) and
another part of the fluid supply path and/or waste removal path may be
provided by
anolher component_ (e.g. a pipe or cover). The inLerior profile 226 of Lhe
spine 222 also
defines a volume Vp in which a power supply line (e.g. for supplying power to
components
below the power source 218) can be located.
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In the illustrated embodiment, the elongate body 202 also includes a suction
source
228 for sucking fluid and/or debris from the suction region 106 to the waste
tank 2164.
In particular, the suction source 228 is provided as a suction unit having a
motor (e.g. a
digital motor).
5 In
the embodiment of Figure 1, the waste tank 2164 is part of a waste tank module
216. The waste tank module 216 also includes a waste tank receiving structure
216B
configured to couple the waste tank 216A to the spine 222 of the elongate body
202. The
waste tank module 216 defines a volume (i.e. defined by the sum of a volume of
the waste
tank 216A and a volume of the waste tank receiving structure 216B).
10 In
the illustrated embodiment, the suction source 228 is coupled directly to the
waste tank module 216 such that it is in fluid communication with the volume
defined by
the waste tank module 216. In particular, the suction source 228 is coupled to
the waste
tank module 216 such that a seal is formed between the suction source 228 and
the waste
tank module 216. In some embodiments, the suction source 228 and/or waste tank
15 module 216 has a seal (e.g. gasket) for this purpose.
When the surface treatment tool 200 is assembled, the elongate body 202 is
coupled to a bracket arrangement 30 of the surface treatment head 10 via a
joint
arrangement 230. For example, Figures 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8 show a first connecting
member
211 for coupling to a second connecting member (not shown) provided at the
second end
20 210 of the elongate body 202 (i.e. a bottom end of the spine 222). The
first connecting
member 211 is coupled to the bracket arrangement 30 via the joint arrangement
230. The
joint arrangement 230 is configured to permit pivoting of the elongate body
202 with
respect to the surface treatment head 10 about a first axis 232 (shown in
Figure 8) and
about a second axis 234 (shown in Figure 4). The second axis 234 is
perpendicular to the
25 first axis 232.
In the illustrated embodiment, the second axis 234 intersects the first axis
232. In
addition, the joint arrangement 230 is located below an upper surface of the
surface
treatment head 10 (i.e. below an upper surface of the cover 25 described
below), which
helps to keep a height of the surface treatment head 10 low.
30 In
alternative embodiments, the first and second axes 232, 234 are spaced apart.
For example, one of the first and second axes 232, 234 may be located above
the upper
surface of the surface treatment head 10.
In alternative embodiments, the elongate body 202 is coupled to the surface
treatment head 10 (e.g. to the bracket arrangement 30) via a resilient
coupling such as a
35 spring or rubber cylinder.
In the illustrated embodiment, the joint arrangement 230 is offset from the
longitudinal axis AL of the elongate body 202 (i.e. the longitudinal axis AL
of the spine
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46
222). In other words, the second end 210 of the elongate body 202 is coupled
to the
bracket arrangement 30 by a bent/angled portion 236 which is out of alignment
with the
elongate body 202 (i.e. out of alignment with the spine 222). This enhances
manoeuvrability of the surface treatment tool 200.
In exemplary embodiments, the joint disclosed in patent application
GB2104339.3
may be used. Alternatively a universal joint may be used, or any other
suitable joint
arrangement.
Referring now to Figures 3 to 8, the surface treatment head 10 of the surface
treatment tool 200 is shown in more detail. The surface treatment head 10 is
configured
to engage the surface S to be treated and has a first end 12, middle portion
13, second
end 14, front edge 16, rear edge 18, and a chassis 20.
The surface treatment head 10 has a first treatment component 22 having a body
24 and a first treatment element 26 configured to engage a surface S to be
treated. In the
illustrated embodiment, the first treatment element 26 is configured for
movement with
respect to the body 24, and the first treatment component 22 has a driving
means 27
(shown in Figure 1) such as an electric motor (e.g. digital motor) configured
to drive the
surface treatment element 26 to effect treatment of a surface S to be treated.
The body
24 has an annular mount 28 for the driving means 27 which is visible in
Figures 3 to 7
without the driving means 27 in place. In alternative embodiments, the first
treatment
element 26 may be configured to move in unison with the body 24 (i.e. may be a
static
treatment element).
In the illustrated embodiment, the first treatment element 26 is formed of a
drivable portion 26A coupled to the driving means of the body 24, and a
treatment portion
26B coupled to the drivable portion 26A. In some embodiments, the entire first
surface
treatment element 26 is releasably coupled to the driving means of the body 24
(e.g. for
cleaning and/or replacement when dirty and/or worn after use). In other
embodiments,
the drivable portion 26A is fixed to the driving means of the body 24 and the
treatment
portion 26B is releasably coupled to the drivable portion 26A (e.g. for
cleaning and/or
replacement when dirty and/or worn after use).
In some embodiments, an intermediate component (e.g. a support plate) is
located
between the treatment portion 26B and the drivable portion 26A. For example,
the
treatment portion 26B may be coupled (e.g. releasably) to the intermediate
component
and/or the intermediate component may be coupled (e.g. releasably) to the
drivable
portion 26A. In such embodiments, it may be easier to remove the treatment
portion 26B
from the first treatment component 22 by first de-coupling the intermediate
component
from the drivable portion 26A, and then de-coupling the treatment portion 26B
from the
intermediate component. In effect, the intermediate component can be
considered a part
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(e.g. a removable part) of the treatment portion 26B, or a part (e.g. a
removable part) of
the drivable portion 26A.
Such couplings (e.g. releasable couplings) between the treatment portion 268,
drivable portion 26A and/or intermediate component may be of any suitable kind
(e.g.
hook-and-eye fasteners, magnetic coupling, snap-fit coupling, resilient
coupling, threaded
coupling, or any other suitable type of releasable coupling).
In embodiments where the first treatment element 26 is static with respect to
the
body 24, the surface treatment element 26 may just be formed of the treatment
portion
26B (e.g. the treatment portion 26B may be directly mounted to the body 24, or
to an
intermediate component directly mounted to the body 24, and the drivable
portion 26A
may be omitted).
The treatment portion 26B may be a pad, brush and/or sponge (e.g. for
cleaning)
or any other suitable type of element (e.g. elements for alternative types of
treatment
such as polishing or waxing).
The first treatment component 22 has a cover 25 which covers the body 24,
driving
means 27 and mount 28. The cover 25 is shown in partial cutaway view in Figure
1, but
is omitted from Figures 3 to 8 to show the components underneath more clearly.
It will be
understood that the full cover 25 will correspond substantially to the size
and shape of the
body 24 in plan view.
The first treatment component 22 includes the fluid outlet 212 which is
provided
proximal the front edge 16 of the first treatment component 22 (e.g. coupled
to a front of
the body 24 and/or cover 25). In this way, the fluid outlet 212 is configured
to apply fluid
to a region of the surface to be treated forward of the first surface
treatment element 26
with respect to the treatment direction D.
The surface treatment head 10 also has a second treatment component 100 having
a mounting arrangement 102 and a second treatment element 104 configured to
engage
the surface S to be treated. As will be described in more detail below, the
second treatment
element 104 in the illustrated embodiment is formed of a rear elongate
squeegee blade
104A and a front elongate squeegee blade 104B which define a suction region
106
therebetween. The suction region 106 is configured to suck fluid and/or debris
from the
surface S to be treated. The suction region 106 is provided to a rear of the
first treatment
element 26 with respect to the treatment direction Dt (i.e. proximal, but
behind the first
treatment element 26).
As best illustrated in Figure 4, the first and second ends 12, 14 of the
surface
treatment head 10 project forward of the middle portion 13 in the treatment
direction D.
In the illustrated embodiment, this is achieved by having a curved front edge
16 and rear
edge 18. In alternative embodiments, a rear edge the surface treatment head
with respect
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48
to a treatment direction of the surface treatment tool comprises a first end,
a second end
and a middle portion located between the first and second ends, wherein the
middle
portion of the rear edge projects rearward of the first and second ends with
respect to a
treatment direction of the surface treatment head. In some embodiment, the
front edge
may be V-shaped, curved or substantially straight.
In the illustrated embodiment, the portions of the first and second treatment
components 22, 100 at the first and second ends 12, 14 of the surface
treatment head 10
project forward of the portions of the first and second treatment components
22, 100 at
the middle portion 13 of the surface treatment head 10. In other words, the
front edge 16
of the surface treatment head 10 is defined by a curved front edge of the
first treatment
component 22, the rear edge 18 of the surface treatment head 10 is defined by
a curved
rear edge of the second treatment component 100, edges of the first and second
treatment
components 22, 100 which face each other are also curved (e.g. of
complementary profile
to each other). In alternative embodiments, the front and/or rear edges 16, 18
are defined
by a substantially V-shaped profile in plan view. In alternative embodiments,
edges of the
first and second treatment components which face each other are substantially
straight,
or comprise any other desired profile. In alternative embodiments, the rear
edge of the
second treatment component may be substantially straight, or comprise any
other desired
profile.
In the illustrated embodiment, the first treatment element 26 is of a similar
shape
to the first treatment component 22 in which the first and second ends project
forward of
the middle portion in the treatment direction Dt.
In other embodiments, the surface treatment head 10, and/or the first and
second
treatment components 22, 100 and/or the first treatment element 26 are of a
different
shape in which the first and second ends do not project forward of the middle
portion. For
example, they may be of substantially rectangular shape (as shown in Figure
19),
triangular, trapezoidal, or of any other suitable shape.
In the illustrated embodiment, the body 24 of the first treatment component 22
and the mounting arrangement 102 of the second treatment component 100 form
the
chassis 20 together with a bracket arrangement 30.
With reference to Figure 3, the bracket arrangement 30 is configured to couple
the
first and second treatment components 22, 100 together. The bracket
arrangement 30 is
also configured such that when a load L is applied to the bracket arrangement
30 (e.g. by
the elongate body 202), the load L is distributed between the first and second
treatment
components 22, 100 and applied to the surface S to be treated, such that the
entire load
is transferred to the surface S via the first and second treatment components
22, 100. In
particular, a first predetermined amount Li of the load L is applied to the
first treatment
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49
component 22 and a second predetermined amount L2 of the load L is applied to
the
second treatment component 100. Although Figure 3 shows two arrows labelled Li
and
two arrows labelled L2 (i.e. each arrow shown on a different arm of the
bracket
arrangement 30), it will be understood that the first predetermined amount Li
is the total
amount of load L applied to the first treatment component 22 (i.e. the sum of
the loads
applied via the arrows marked Li in Figure 3) and the second predetermined
amount L2
is the total amount of load L applied to the second treatment component 100
(i.e. the sum
of the loads applied via the arrows marked L2 in Figure 3).
In some embodiments, the first predetermined amount L1 is in the range of 30
to
70% (e.g. 40 to 60% or 45% to 55%) of the total load L applied to the bracket
arrangement 30. In some embodiments, the second predetermined amount L2 is in
the
range of 30 to 70% (e.g. 40 to 60% or 45% to 55%) of the total load L applied
to the
bracket arrangement. For example, 50% of the load L applied to the bracket
arrangement
30 is transferred to the first treatment component 22 and 50% of the load L
applied to the
bracket arrangement 30 is transferred to the second treatment component 100.
In the illustrated embodiment, a contact plane P (as shown in Figure 5) of the
surface treatment head 10 is defined only by the first and second treatment
elements 26,
104. In other words, when the surface treatment head is resting on a surface
S. the first
and second treatment elements 26, 104 are the only parts of the surface
treatment head
10 that contact the surface S. In this way, the entire load L applied to the
bracket
arrangement 30 is transferred to the first and second treatment elements 26,
104. Put
another way, the sum of the first and second predetermined amounts Li, L2
equals the
load L applied to the bracket arrangement 30. This improves contact between
each of the
first and second treatment elements 26, 104 and the surface S to be treated,
which
improves performance of the surface treatment head 10.
In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket arrangement 30 has a first
connection
structure 32 coupled to the first treatment component 22. The first connection
structure
32 includes a first arm 32A and a second arm 32B each coupled to the first
treatment
component 22 along a first transverse axis Ati (as shown in Figure 4)
extending
perpendicular to a treatment direction Dt of the surface treatment head 10. In
particular,
the first treatment component has an upper surface (i.e. an upper surface 34
of the body
24) and arm recesses 35A, 35B provided in the upper surface 34. The first and
second
arms 32A, 32B are coupled to the first treatment component 22 within the
respective arm
recesses 32A, 32B such that the first and second arms 32A, 32B are partly
located below
the upper surface 34. Although not clearly visible in the figures, the cover
25 described
above also has arm an upper surface and arm recesses provided in the upper
surface of
the cover 25 such that the first and second arms 32A, 32B are partly located
below the
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upper surface of the cover 25. In alternative embodiments, the first and
second arms 32A,
32B are coupled to an upper surface (e.g. the upper surface 34 of the body 24,
or an upper
surface of the cover 25).
The first and second arms 32A, 32B are arranged on either side of a central
axis Ac
5 (see Figure 4) of the surface treatment head 10 (which also corresponds
to a central axis
of the first treatment component 22). The central axis A, extends along the
treatment
direction Dt of the surface treatment head 10. In the illustrated embodiment,
the first and
second arms 32A 32B are symmetrically positioned with respect to the central
axis A. In
the illustrated embodiment, the first transverse axis At1 extends through a
midpoint of the
10 driving means 27. For example, the midpoint of the driving means may be
a geometric
midpoint or a midpoint with respect to a centre of gravity of the driving
means 27.
In some embodiments, the transverse axis A1 is located proximal a midpoint of
the
driving means, optionally extending behind a midpoint of the driving means
(i.e. towards
a rear of the first treatment component. In some embodiments, the first
transverse axis
15 Ati extends within a centre third of the first treatment component 22,
between a frontmost
and rearmost point of the first treatment component 22, e.g. the first
transverse axis At1
defines a midpoint between a frontmost and rearmost point of the first
treatment
component 22.
The bracket arrangement 30 also has a second connection structure 36 coupled
to
20 the second treatment component 100. The second connection structure 36
includes a third
arm 36A and a fourth arm 36B each coupled to an upper surface 136 of the
second
treatment component 100 (i.e. an upper surface of the mounting arrangement
102) along
a second transverse axis At2 extending perpendicular to the treatment
direction Dt of the
surface treatment head 10. In alternative embodiments, the third and fourth
arms 36A,
25 36B are embedded below the upper surface 136 of the second treatment
component 100
(e.g. in arm recesses similar to those described above in relation to the
first treatment
component 22).
In the illustrated embodiment, the second transverse axis At2 is in alignment
with
the joint arrangement 230. In some embodiment, the second transverse axis At2
extends
30 within a centre third of the second treatment component 100, between a
frontmost and
rearmost point of the second treatment component 100, e.g. the second
transverse axis
At2 defines a midpoint between a frontmost and rearmost point of the second
treatment
component 100.
The third and fourth arms 36A, 36B are arranged on either side of the central
axis
35 kof the surface treatment head 10 (which also corresponds to a central
axis of the second
treatment component 100). In the illustrated embodiment, the third and fourth
arms 36A,
36B are symmetrically positioned with respect to the central axis A.
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It will be understood that the first to fourth arms 32A, 32B, 36A, 36B spread
out
the application of load L from the bracket arrangement 30 across the
respective first and
second treatment components 22, 100. For example, half of the first
predetermined
amount Li is applied to the first treatment component 22 by the first arm 32A
and the
other half of the first predetermined amount Li is applied to the first
treatment component
22 by the second arm 326. Similarly, half of the second predetermined amount
L2 is
applied to the second treatment component 100 by the third arm 36A and the
other half
of the second predetermined amount L2 is applied to the second treatment
component
100 by the fourth arm 366.
In alternative embodiments, the first connection structure 32 has a single arm
or
more than two arms and/or the second connection structure 36 has a single arm
or more
than two arms.
As best illustrated in Figures 5 and 9, the bracket arrangement 30 is
configured to
couple the first and second treatment components 22, 100 together such that
relative
movement therebetween is permitted in a direction D, perpendicular to the
surface S to
be treated. For example, where the surface S is horizontal (and thus the
direction D,
perpendicular to the surface S is vertical), vertical movement between the
first and second
treatment components 22, 100 is permitted. This facilitates engagement of each
treatment
component 22, 100 with a surface S having varying heights (e.g. the stepped
surface S of
Figure 9). In other words, as the surface treatment head 10 moves over an
uneven/undulating surface 5, the first and second treatment components 22, 100
can rise
or fall with respect to each other as they pass over undulations in the
surface S.
In the illustrated embodiment, the first treatment component 22 is pivotally
coupled to the bracket arrangement 30 and the second treatment component 100
is
pivotally coupled to the bracket arrangement 30. The bracket arrangement 30 is
also
configured to be pivotally coupled to the elongate body 202 (i.e. by virtue of
the joint
arrangement 220). In this way, by simultaneous pivoting of the first and
second treatment
components 22, 100 in the same direction relative to the bracket arrangement
30, as well
as pivoting of the bracket arrangement 30 relative to the elongate body 202,
linear
movement between the first and second treatment components 22, 100 (i.e. in
direction
Dv) is achieved.
In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first to fourth arms 32A, 326, 36A,
366
includes a pivot pin 38. The pivot pins 38 are received in clamps 40 of the
respective
treatment components 22, 100 (see Figure 7). The clamps 40 prevent linear
movement of
Lhe pivol pins 38 relalive Lo Lhe respeclive LreaLmenL cornponenLs 22, 100,
buL perr-niL
rotation of the pivot pins 38 within the respective clamps 40. In this way,
pivoting of the
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52
first and second treatment components 22, 100 relative to the bracket
arrangement 30 is
achieved.
Referring now to Figures 5 and 6, the surface treatment head 10 has a limiting
mechanism 42 configured to limit relative movement between the first and
second
treatment components 22, 100. In particular, the first connection structure 32
and first
treatment component 22 are configured to interact to define a permitted range
of
movement (i.e. pivoting) therebetween. Similarly, the second connection
structure 36 and
second treatment component 100 are configured to interact to define a
permitted range
of movement (i.e. pivoting) therebetween.
As best illustrated in Figure 6, the limiting mechanism 42 includes abutment
surfaces 44 on the first treatment component 22 configured to abut the first
connection
structure 32 (i.e. the first and second arms 32A, 32B) to limit relative
movement between
the first treatment component 22 and the bracket arrangement 30. In the
illustrated
embodiment, the abutment surfaces 44 of the first treatment component are
configured
to abut opposing sides of the first and second arms 32A, 32B to define a
maximum and
minimum of the permitted range of movement.
In the illustrated embodiment, each abutment surface 44 is angled relative to
the
surface contact plane P defined by the first treatment element 26. While
Figures 5 and 6
illustrate the first arm 32A in a middle position of the range of movement, it
will be
understood that when the first arm 32A is pivoted so that it abuts one of the
abutment
surfaces 44, the first arm 32A and respective abutment surface 44 would be
parallel to
each other.
With reference to Figure 5, the limiting mechanism 42 also includes similar
abutment surfaces 44 on the second treatment component 100 configured to abut
the
second connection structure 36 (i.e. the third and fourth arms 36A, 36B) to
limit relative
movement between the second treatment component 100 and the bracket
arrangement
30. In the illustrated embodiment, the abutment surfaces 44 of the second
treatment
component 100 are configured to abut opposing sides of the third and fourth
arms 36A,
36B to define a maximum and minimum of the permitted range of movement.
It will be understood that since linear movement between the first and second
treatment components 22, 100 (i.e. in direction Dv) is achieved by
simultaneous pivoting
of the first and second treatment components 22, 100 relative to the bracket
arrangement,
having abutment surfaces 44 of the limiting mechanism 42 which limit pivoting
between
the respective treatment components 22, 100 and bracket arrangement also
limits relative
linear movement between the first and second treatment components 22, 100
(i.e. in
direction Dv).
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53
In some embodiments, the limiting mechanism 42 is adjustable. For example, the
abutment surfaces 44 may be movable to adjust the extent to which the
respective
treatment component 22, 100 is free to pivot with respect to the bracket
arrangement 30.
In such embodiments, a distance between the abutment surfaces 44 and the
respective
arms 32A, 32B, 36A, 36B may be adjustable. For example, each abutment surface
44 may
be coupled to the respective treatment component 22, 100 via an attachment
mechanism
(e.g. having complementary threads), and the distance between each abutment
surface
44 and the respective arm 32A, 32B, 36A, 36B is adjustable by adjustment of
the
attachment mechanism (e.g. by relative rotation between the complementary
threads).
In such embodiments, each abutment surface 44 may include a bolt, screw or
other
threaded fastener coupled to a complementary threaded bore in the respective
treatment
component 22, 100, or vice versa. In some embodiments, each abutment surface
44
comprises a bolt, screw or other threaded fastener (e.g. the bolt, screw or
threaded
fastener directly abuts against the respective arm 32A, 32B, 36A, 36B).
Alternatively (or additionally), an angle of the abutment surfaces 44 relative
to the
surface contact plane P may be adjustable.
In the illustrated embodiment (see Figure 6) the first arm 32A comprises
abutment
surfaces 33 for abutment with abutment surfaces 44 of the first treatment
component 22.
In the illustrated embodiment the abutment surfaces 33 of the first arm are
parallel to
each other. In alternative embodiments, the abutment surfaces may be angled
with
respect to each other. A similar arrangement is provided at all the arms 32B,
36A, 36B.
It will be appreciated that any suitable configuration of corresponding
abutment
surfaces can be used to achieve the desired limiting effect. For example,
pivot pins 38 may
be fixed with respect to the respective arm and comprise abutment surfaces
configured to
engage corresponding abutment surfaces of the respective treatment component.
Referring now to Figures 10 to 12, an alternative surface treatment head 10
for the
surface treatment tool 200 is shown. Common features between the surface
treatment
heads 10 of Figures 3 to 9 and 10 to 12 are given the same reference numeral.
It will be understood that as the surface treatment head 10 of Figures 3 to 9
is
moved along the surface S in the treatment direction Dt, friction between the
respective
surface treatment elements 26, 104 and the surface S may urge the rearmost
treatment
component (i.e. the second treatment component 100) to pivot to such an extent
that the
rearmost surface treatment element (i.e. second surface treatment element 104)
lifts or
disengages from the surface S to some extent. This may cause a seal between a
rear of
the suclion region 106 and Lhe surface S Lo be broken. This may also lead lo
increased
drag making it harder to push the surface treatment head 10 in the treatment
direction
Dt.
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54
In the embodiment of Figures 10 to 12, the surface treatment head 10 is
configured
to restrict pivoting of the first and second treatment components 22, 100
relative to each
other to a pre-determined range of movement. This inhibits such an undesirable
pivoting
of the second treatment component 100 when in use. In particular, the second
treatment
component 100 has projections 140 (e.g. "tabs") configured to co-operate with
the first
treatment component 22 to limit relative movement therebetween. In alternative
embodiments, the first treatment component 22 has projections 140 which are
configured
to co-operate with the second treatment component 22 to limit movement
therebetween.
In the embodiment of Figures 10 to 12, the projections 140 co-operate with the
upper surface 34 of the first treatment component 22 to limit pivoting of the
second
treatment component 100 out of engagement with the surface S. In alternative
embodiments, the projections 140 may co-operate with a lower surface of the
first
treatment component 22 (or the second treatment component 100 when the
projections
140 are provided on the first treatment component 22). In alternative
embodiments, the
projections 140 are received in corresponding recesses in the first treatment
component
22 (or the second treatment component 100 when the projections 140 are
provided on
the first treatment component 22). In some embodiments, the projections 140
are
received in corresponding channels in the first treatment component 22 (or the
second
treatment component 100 when the projections 140 are provided on the first
treatment
component 22). The projection 140 is configured to move along the
corresponding
channel, thereby permitting relative linear movement between the first and
second
treatment components, but limiting relative pivotal movement.
With reference to Figure 12, it will be understood that since the projections
140
contact the upper surface 34 of the first treatment component 22, pivoting of
the second
treatment component 100 in the opposite direction (e.g. in a clockwise
direction as viewed
in Figure 12) is not inhibited (e.g. when this is necessary for tracking an
angle change in
the surface S). In alternative embodiments, pivoting in both directions (i.e.
clockwise and
anti-clockwise as viewed in Figure 12) is inhibited.
Because of the curved shape of the second surface treatment element 104 (i.e.
curved shape of squeegee blades 104A, 104B), the portions proximal the first
and second
ends 12, 14 of the surface treatment head may have a greater frictional force
applied as
they move over surface S. Therefore, in the embodiment of Figures 10 to 12 the
projections 140 are provided proximal the first and second ends 12, 14 of the
surface
treatment head 10.
In alLernaLive ernbodimenLs, a differenL mechanism Lo inhibiL pivoLing oLher
Lhan
the projections 140 is provided. Such an alternative mechanism to inhibit
pivoting, but
permit relative vertical movement, can be of any suitable type including one
or more
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structures 140 on a first of the treatment components 22, 100 configured to co-
operate
with one or more complementary structures 141 of the other treatment component
22,
100 (e.g. to co-operate by abutting, or by one structure 140 being received at
least partly
within a complementary structure 141).
5
Referring now to Figures 13, 15 and 16, the second treatment component 100,
which defines a squeegee assembly, is shown in more detail.
As a reminder, the squeegee assembly 100 has a rear elongate squeegee blade
104A and a front elongate squeegee blade 104B which define a suction region
106
10 therebetween.
The rear squeegee blade 104A has a fixed portion 108A secured by the mounting
arrangement 102. Similarly, the front squeegee blade 104B has a fixed portion
108B
secured by the mounting arrangement 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the
fixed
portions 108A, 1085 are secured to the mounting arrangement 102 by lugs 110 of
the
15 mounting arrangement 102 and corresponding receivers 111 (e.g.
apertures) in the
respective squeegee blade 104A, 104B. In alternative embodiments, the squeegee
blades
104A, 104B have lugs 110 and the mounting arrangement 102 has corresponding
receivers 111. In alternative embodiments, other fasteners are used, and/or
the mounting
arrangement 102 is configured to grip the fixed portion 108 (e.g. to hold via
an
20 interference fit/friction).
The rear squeegee blade 104A also has a flexible wiper 112A configured to
contact
the surface S to be treated when in use (e.g. as illustrated in Figure 13).
Similarly, the
front squeegee blade 1045 has a flexible wiper 1125 configured to contact the
surface S
to be treated when in use (e.g. as illustrated in Figure 13).
25
With reference to Figure 16, the rear squeegee blade 104A has a first end
114A
and a second end 116A and a length extending therebetween. The fixed portion
10BA and
flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A extend between the first
and second
ends 114A, 116A. When viewed from the sectional side view of Figure 13, it can
be seen
that the rear squeegee blade 104A has a front surface 118A facing in a
generally forward
30 direction (i.e. with respect to the treatment direction Dt), and a
rear surface 120A facing
in a generally rearward direction Dr. The rear squeegee blade 104A also has a
first edge
122A proximal the fixed portion 108A and a second edge 124A proximal the
flexible wiper
112A (i.e. in contact with surface S in use). The first and second edges 122A,
124A define
a height Hi of the rear squeegee blade 104A.
35
Similarly, the front squeegee blade 104B has a first end 114B and a second
end
1165 and a length extending therebetween. The fixed portion 1085 and flexible
wiper
1125 of the front squeegee blade 1045 extend between the first and second ends
1145,
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1166. When viewed from the sectional side view of Figure 13, it can be seen
that the front
squeegee blade 1046 has a front surface 1186 facing in a generally forward
direction (i.e.
with respect to the treatment direction Dr), and a rear surface 120B facing in
a generally
rearward direction Dr. The front squeegee blade 1046 also has a first edge
122B proximal
the fixed portion 1086 and a second edge 1246 proximal the flexible wiper 1126
(i.e. in
contact with surface S in use). The first and second edges 1226, 1246 define a
height H2
of the front squeegee blade 1046.
As will be described in more detail below, the squeegee assembly 100 has a
first
support formation 126 configured to cooperate with the rear squeegee blade
104A such
that at least a portion of the flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade
104A is
arranged to extend in a generally rearward direction Dr and such that
deflection of at least
said portion of the flexible wiper 112A in a generally forward direction Dt is
inhibited.
As shown in Figure 13, the front surface 118A of the rear squeegee blade 104A
forms a contact angle 01 with the surface S to be treated when the squeegee
assembly
100 rests on the surface S. The first support formation 126 is configured to
cooperate with
the rear squeegee blade 104A such that the contact angle 01 is an acute angle,
and such
that deflection of the flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A
such that the
contact angle Ai is greater than 90 is inhibited. In the illustrated
embodiment, the contact
angle 81 is approximately 45 . In some embodiments, the support formation 126
is
configured to cooperate with the squeegee blade 104A such that the contact
angle Oi
varies along a length of the squeegee blade, e.g. such that the contact angle
Ai increases
proximal the first and/or second ends of the squeegee blade 104A.
To orient the rear squeegee blade 104A, the first support formation 126 is
configured to cooperate with at least a portion of the front surface 118A and
a portion of
the rear surface 120A of the rear squeegee blade 104A. In particular, the
first support
formation 126 includes a front support structure 126a configured to contact
the front
surface 118A of the rear squeegee blade 104A and a rear support structure 126b
configured to contact the rear surface 120A of the rear squeegee blade 104A.
It will be understood that the front support structure 126a is sufficient to
cooperate
with the front surface 118A of the rear squeegee blade 104A such that the
flexible wiper
112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A extends in the generally rearward
direction Dr and
such that deflection of the flexible wiper 112A in the generally forward
direction (i.e. the
treatment direction DO is inhibited. However, with the addition of the rear
support
structure 126b, the flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A is
also inhibited
fror-n flexing furLher in Lhe rearward direcLion Dr, even if a load is applied
Lo Lhe rear
squeegee blade 104A). In other words, the front and rear support structures
126a, 126b
together maintain a contact angle 01 within a predetermined range, which
allows a suitable
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contact angle Oi to be maintained throughout a wide range of operating
conditions and
loads applied to the rear squeegee blade 104A.
In alternative embodiments, only the rear support structure 126b is provided
(i.e.
the front support structure 126a is not present). This provides a simple means
for
controlling the degree of deflection of the rear squeegee blade 104A when in
use.
In the illustrated embodiment, the front and rear support structures 126a,
126b
each have a guide projection in the form of a guide wall 128a, 128b which
contacts the
respective surface of the rear squeegee blade 104A along a continuous line of
contact
along the length of the rear squeegee blade 104A. The guide walls 128a, 128b
are angled
to extend in the generally rearward direction Dr (i.e. the guide walls 128a,
128b form an
acute angle to the surface S which is within the predetermined range of the
contact angle
01). As can be seen in figure 13, the guide walls 128a, 128b are also
configured to contact
the rear squeegee blade 104A along a portion of a height of the rear squeegee
blade 104.
In this way, the guide walls 128a, 128b are arranged to contact an area of the
rear
squeegee blade 104A.
In some embodiments, the front and/or rear support structure 126a,b is
provided
by a rigid structure, e.g. the guide wall 128a, 128b. In some embodiments, the
front
and/or rear support structure 126a,b is provided by another squeegee or
similar flexible
component.
In some embodiments, one or both of the front and rear support structures
126a,
126b includes a plurality of guide projections (e.g. a plurality of guide
walls) which contact
the respective surface of the rear squeegee blade 104A at one or more discrete
points
(e.g. a series of discrete points).
In the illustrated embodiment, the first support formation 126 is configured
to
cooperate with the rear squeegee blade 104A such that the flexible wiper 112A
is arranged
to extend in the generally rearward direction Dr along the entire length of
the rear
squeegee blade 104A, and such that deflection of the flexible wiper 112A in
the generally
forward direction (i.e. the treatment direction Dt) is inhibited along the
entire length of the
rear squeegee blade 104A. In other words, the guide walls 128a, 128b of the
front and
rear support structures 126a, 126b of the first support formation 126 extend
along the
majority, e.g. substantially all, of the length of the rear squeegee blade
104A (e.g. from
(e.g. proximal) the first end 1144 to (e.g. proximal) the second end 1164 of
the rear
squeegee blade 104A).
It will be understood that portions of the flexible wiper 112A proximal the
first and
second ends 114A, 116A are most vulnerable to flexing in unwanted directions
when the
rear squeegee blade 104A is moved on the surface S. Therefore, in some
embodiments,
only a portion of the flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A
proximal the
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58
first end 114A and/or a portion of the flexible wiper 112A of the rear
squeegee blade 104A
proximal the second end 116A is arranged to extend in the generally rearward
direction
Dr and inhibited from flexing forwards. In other words, the guide walls 128a,
128b of the
first support formation 126 may be provided only proximal the first and second
ends 114A,
116A, with a central portion 130A of the flexible wiper 112A (i.e. a portion
between the
first and second ends 114A, 116A) unsupported.
In the embodiment of Figure 13, the flexible wiper 112B of the front squeegee
blade 104B is free to flex in either direction, at least at the point of the
cross-section along
line C-C of Figure 4 (i.e. at a central portion 130B of the front squeegee
blade 104B). In
other words, while there is a front support formation 132 in Figure 13 having
front and
rear support structures 132a, 132b configured to contact the respective front
and rear
surfaces 118B, 120B, these front and rear support structures 132a, 132b only
contact the
fixed portion 1086 and not the flexible wiper 1126 of the front squeegee blade
1046 (at
least in cross-section along line C-C). In this embodiment, the flexible wiper
1126 of the
front squeegee blade 104B is caused to extend in a substantially rearward
direction due
to the load applied to the squeegee assembly 100 and the forward movement of
the
surface treatment head 10. However, a second support formation (e.g. a support
formation similar to the first support formation 126 and variants described
above) may be
provided proximal the first and second ends 114B, 116B of the front squeegee
blade 104B,
or along the entire length (as described below with reference to Figure 14).
In the embodiment of Figure 14, the squeegee assembly 100 has an alternative
second support formation 132 configured to cooperate with the front squeegee
blade 1046
such that at least a portion of the flexible wiper 112B of the front squeegee
blade 104B is
arranged to extend in a generally rearward direction Dr and such that
deflection of at least
said portion of the flexible wiper 112B in the generally forward direction Dt
is inhibited.
The front surface 1186 of the front squeegee blade 1046 forms a contact angle
02
with the surface S to be treated when the squeegee assembly 100 rests on the
surface S.
The second support formation 132 is configured to cooperate with the front
squeegee
blade 1046 such that the contact angle 02 is an acute angle, and such that
deflection of
the flexible wiper 112B of the front squeegee blade 104B such that the contact
angle 62 is
greater than 90 is inhibited. In this way, the contact angle 02 remains
within a
predetermined range. In the illustrated embodiment, the contact angle 02 is
approximately
45 .
In the embodiment of Figure 14, the contact angles 01 and 02 are approximately
equal. In allernalive embodimenls, Lhe conlact_ angles Oland 02 are different_
Lo each other
(although both still acute angles).
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The second support formation 132 includes a front support structure 132a
configured to contact the front surface 1185 of the front squeegee blade 1045
and a rear
support structure 132b configured to contact the rear surface 120B of the
front squeegee
blade 104B. In the embodiment of Figure 14, the rear support structure 132b of
the second
support formation 132 only contacts the fixed portion 108B and not the
flexible wiper 1125
of the front squeegee blade 1045. In alternative embodiments, the rear support
structure
132b of the second support formation 132 may contact the flexible wiper 1125
of the front
squeegee blade 104B in a similar manner to the way in which the rear support
structure
126b of the first support formation 126 contacts the flexible wiper 112A of
the rear
squeegee blade 104A.
In the embodiment of Figure 14, the front support structure 132a of the second
support formation 132 has a guide projection in the form of a guide wall 134
which contacts
the front surface 1185 of the front squeegee blade 1045 along a continuous
line of contact
along the length of the front squeegee blade 104B, and the guide wall 134 is
angled to
extend in the generally rearward direction Dr (i.e. the guide wall 134 forms
an angle to
the surface S which is within the predetermined range of the contact angle
02). As can be
seen in figure 14, the guide wall 134 is also configured to contact the front
squeegee blade
104B along a portion of a height of the front squeegee blade 104B. In this
way, the guide
wall 134 is arranged to contact an area of the front squeegee blade 104B.
In some embodiments, the front support structure 132a of the front squeegee
blade
1045 includes a plurality of guide projections (e.g. a plurality of guide
walls) which contact
the front surface 1185 of the front squeegee blade 1045 at one or more
discrete points
(e.g. a series of discrete points).
In the illustrated embodiment, the second support formation 132 is configured
to
cooperate with the front squeegee blade 104B such that the flexible wiper 112B
is arranged
to extend in the generally rearward direction Dr along the entire length of
the front
squeegee blade 1045, and such that deflection of the flexible wiper 1125 in
the generally
forward direction (i.e. the treatment direction Dt) is inhibited along the
entire length of the
front squeegee blade 1045. In other words, the guide wall 134 of the second
support
formation 132 extends along the majority, e.g. substantially all, of the
length of the front
squeegee blade 104B (e.g. from (e.g. proximal) the first end 14B to (e.g.
proximal) the
second end 116B of the front squeegee blade 104B). In this way, the guide wall
134 of
the second support formation 132 is visible in the cross-section along line C-
C of Figure 4
(i.e. along the central axis A, of the surface treatment head 10).
In alLernaLive ernbodimenLs, only a porLion of Lhe flexible wiper 1125 of Lhe
fronL
squeegee blade 1045 proximal the first end 1145 and/or a portion of the
flexible wiper
112B of the front squeegee blade 104B proximal the second end 116B is arranged
to
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extend in the generally rearward direction Dr and inhibited from flexing
forwards. In other
words, the guide walls 134 of the second support formation 132 may be provided
only
proximal the first and second ends 114B, 116B, with a central portion 130B of
the flexible
wiper 112B (i.e. a portion between the first and second ends 114B, 116B) being
free to
5 move in either direction.
Referring now to Figure 15, the rear and front elongated squeegee blades 104A,
104B are coupled together to form a continuously sealed suction region 106, to
improve
suction performance (e.g. as compared to an unsealed suction region). In
particular, the
rear and front squeegee blades 104A, 104B are gripped together at the first
ends 114A,
10 114B and at the second ends 116A, 116B, for example by the mounting
arrangement 102.
In some embodiments, the rear and front squeegee blades 104A, 104B are
arranged to contact each other in use at the respective ends 114A, 114B, 116A,
116B. For
example, the first and second ends 114B, 116B of the front squeegee blade 104B
may be
urged backwards towards the first and second ends 1144, 116A of the rear
squeegee blade
15 104A when the squeegee assembly 100 is driven forwards in the treatment
direction D.
In such embodiments, the rear and front squeegee blades 104A, 104B may not be
gripped
together at the ends 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B. For example, when the squeegee
assembly
100 is lifted from the surface the rear and front squeegee blades 104A, 104B
may be
spaced apart from each other, or the rear and front squeegee blades 104A, 104B
may
20 meet at a single point at each end 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B by virtue of
not being parallel
to each other at the ends 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B.
In some embodiments, the suction region 106 is defined by a resilient member
formed as a continuous loop, and the resilient member includes the rear and
front elongate
squeegee blades 104A, 104B. In other words, the first ends 114A, 114B may be
integrally
25 formed and the second ends 116A, 116B may be integrally formed.
Referring now to Figure 16, the front support structure 132b of the second
support
formation 132 is omitted to show the front squeegee blade 104B more clearly.
Proximal
the first and second ends 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B, the fixed portion 108B of
the front
elongate squeegee blade 104B is mounted further from the surface S to be
treated than
30 the fixed portion 108A of the rear elongated squeegee blade 104B (i.e.
when the squeegee
assembly 100 is resting on the surface S in use). This inhibits the front
squeegee blade
104B from passing underneath the rear squeegee blade 104A and separating the
rear
squeegee blade 104A (i.e. the second edge 124A of the rear squeegee blade
1045) from
the ground. Put another way, this inhibits breakage of a seal between the
suction region
35 106 and lhe surface S.
In some embodiments, the first and second ends 114B, 116B of the front
elongate
squeegee blade 104B are mounted further from the surface S than the first and
second
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61
ends 114A, 116A of the rear elongated squeegee blade 104A by a distance in the
range of
0.5mm to 2mm, e.g. in the range of 0.75mm to 1.5mm, e.g. substantially lmm.
In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting arrangement 102 has a series of
lugs
110 and the front squeegee blade 104B has a corresponding series of receivers
111 (e.g.
apertures) configured to receive the lugs 110. Proximal the first and second
ends 114B,
116B of the front elongated squeegee blade 104B, when the front elongate
squeegee blade
104B is mounted to the mounting arrangement 102, the lugs 110 of the mounting
arrangement 102 and receivers 111 of the front squeegee blade 104B are located
further
from the surface S than those lugs 110 and receivers 111 proximal the central
portion
130B of the front elongate squeegee blade 104B (i.e. when the squeegee
assembly 100 is
resting on the surface S in use).
In alternative embodiments, proximal the first and second ends 114A, 114B,
116A,
116B of the respective elongated squeegee blades 104A, 104B, the unflexed
height H2 of
the front elongate squeegee blade 104B is less than the unflexed height H1 of
the rear
squeegee blade 104A. In other words, the height H2 may gradually reduce
towards the
first and second ends 114B, 116B. In such embodiments, the height H2 of the
front
elongate squeegee blade 104B proximal the first and second ends 114B, 116B is
less than
the height H1 of the rear elongated squeegee blade 104A by an amount in the
range of
0.5mm to 2mm, e.g. in the range of 0.75mm to 1.5mm, e.g. substantially lmm.
In some embodiments, the squeegee blades 104A, 104B are releasable from the
mounting arrangement 102 (i.e. by disengagement of the receivers 111 in the
squeegee
blades 104A, 104B with the lugs 110 of the mounting arrangement 102). In order
to do
so, the front support structure 132a of the second support formation 132 has
to be
removed (or at least flexed forwards/upwards), and/or the rear support
structure 126b of
the first support formation 126 has to be removed (or at least flexed
rearwards/upwards).
Therefore, one or more of these support structures 132A, 126b are removable.
In some
embodiments, one or more of the support structures 132A, 126b are flexible. In
the
illustrated embodiments, the lugs 110 are coupled to parts of the mounting
arrangement
102 within an interior of the suction region 106 (e.g. to the front support
structure 126a
of the first support formation 126, and the rear support structure 132b of the
second
support structure 132). In alternative embodiments, the lugs 110 may be
coupled to the
parts of the mounting arrangement 102 outside of the suction region 106 (e.g.
to the front
support structure 132a of the second support formation 132 and the rear
support structure
126b of the first support formation 126). In the illustrated embodiments, the
lugs 110
have a hooked shape, which allows the squeegee blades 104A, 104B to be held in
place
during assembly.
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62
In the illustrated embodiments, the rear support structure 132b of the second
support formation 132 is fixedly coupled to the front support structure 126a
of the first
support formation 126. In this way, once the front support structure 132a of
the second
support formation 132 and or the rear support structure 126b of the first
support formation
126 has been removed, the squeegee blades 104A, 1045 can be removed together
as one
unit with the front support structure 126a of the first support formation 126,
and the rear
support structure 132b of the second support structure 132 (e.g. for removal
and
replacement of the squeegee blades 104A, 104B).
As mentioned above, in the illustrated embodiment the first and second ends
114A,
114B, 116A, 116B of each squeegee blade 104A, 104B project forwards of the
respective
central portions 130A, 13013 of the squeegee blades 104A, 1045. In this way,
fluid is
funnelled towards the central portions 130A, 130B as the squeegee assembly 100
is moved
forwards in the treatment direction Dt. It will be understood that the profile
of the squeegee
blades 104A, 104B in the squeegee assembly 100 is complementary to the profile
of the
first treatment element 26 (particularly the front squeegee blade 10413 which
is provided
proximal the first surface treatment element), to provide a compact
arrangement and good
uptake of fluid and/or debris displaced by the first treatment element 26.
In some embodiments, the front squeegee blade 104B is shaped to form openings
when in use to permit fluid to enter the suction region 106 when the squeegee
assembly
100 is moved in the treatment direction Dt. For example, the openings may be
formed as
cutaway portions in the second edge 1245 of the front squeegee blade 1045. The
cutaway
portions may be covered by sealing flaps which are displaced when the front
squeegee
blade 1045 is moved in the treatment direction Dt to form the openings (i.e.
the flaps
extends beyond the second edge 124B to create openings when in use), and which
move
to cover the respective cutaway portions when passing over uneven ground, to
provide an
improved seal between the front squeegee blade 104B and the surface S to be
treated.
Alternatively, the front surface 118B of the flexible wiper 112B of the front
squeegee blade
104B may have corrugations which leads to the formation of openings (i.e.
between the
corrugations) when the flexible wiper 112B is angled rearwards as in the
illustrated figures.
In the illustrated embodiment, the squeegee assembly 100 is configured such
that
a load L2 applied to the mounting arrangement 102 is applied to the surface S
to be treated
exclusively by the flexible wipers 112A, 112B of the squeegee blades 104A,
104B. In other
words, there are no wheels or other components which engage the surface S to
be treated,
which improves the contact of the flexible wipers 112A, 112B with the surface
S and
streamlines the squeegee assembly 100.
With reference to Figure 1, the squeegee assembly 100 is coupled to a suction
connection arrangement 138 configured to connect the suction region 106 to the
suction
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63
source 228 of the surface treatment tool 200. The suction connection
arrangement 138 is
illustrated in Figure 1 as a length of hose/pipe, but may alternatively be any
other suitable
structure.
Referring now to Figures 3 to 8, 10, 11, 17 and 18, the first surface
treatment
element 26 defines a treatment area 48 of the surface S to be treated (e.g. as
best viewed
in Figure 17). In the illustrated embodiments, since the first surface
treatment element 26
is moveable, the treatment area 48 corresponds to the area defined by the
first surface
treatment element 26 throughout its full range of movement (i.e. taking the
position of
the chassis 20 of the surface treatment head 10 to be fixed). In other words,
the treatment
area 48 corresponds to the area of the surface S which is treated by the first
surface
treatment element 26 during its full range of movement (i.e. when the chassis
20 remains
in a constant position with respect to the surface S). Put another way, the
perimeter 50
of the treatment area 48 corresponds to a boundary of movement of the first
surface
treatment element 26. The first surface treatment element 26 does not move
beyond this
boundary (i.e. taking the position of the chassis 20 to be fixed with respect
to the surface
S).
As mentioned above, the surface treatment head 10 of Figures 3 to 11 has a
driving
means 27 configured to drive movement of the first surface treatment element
26 relative
to the chassis 20. In the illustrated embodiments, the driving means 27
includes an
eccentric drive mechanism configured such that the first surface treatment
element 26
engages the surface S to be treated in a cyclical motion in which at least
portion of the
first surface treatment element 26 faces in substantially the same direction
throughout
the cyclical motion. For example, the front portion of the first surface
treatment element
26 faces substantially forwards throughout the cyclical motion. The eccentric
drive
mechanism is not shown on the figures, but it will be understood to consist of
an
arrangement of one or more shafts and cam arrangements coupled to the driving
means
(e.g. located in recesses 29 of the drivable portion 26A of the first
treatment element 26
below the mount 28, as illustrated in Figure 8). For example, the drive
mechanism as
disclosed in patent application GB2104339.3 may be used, or any other suitable
drive
mechanism.
In particular, the eccentric drive mechanism of the driving means 27 is
configured
to drive the first surface treatment element 26 so that each point on the
first surface
treatment element 26 moves along a circular path, wherein the circular paths
each have
a unique cenlre poinl but_ a common radius dimension.
In alternative embodiments, a different type of movement is provided (e.g. the
first surface treatment element 26 may rotate or reciprocate linearly).
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64
In alternative embodiments, the first surface treatment element 26 is static
with
respect to the chassis 20 (or at least with respect to the body 24), and the
treatment area
48 corresponds to the area of the first surface treatment element 26 which is
configured
to contact the surface S to be treated.
As will be described in more detail below, the chassis 20 of the surface
treatment
head 10 has a plurality of guide portions 46 which are configured to dampen
impact of the
surface treatment head with other structures when in use. In the illustrated
embodiments,
the guide portions 46 are configured to extend beyond the perimeter 50 of the
treatment
area 48 (e.g. when the surface treatment head is viewed in a plan view as in
Figures 4,
11 and 17). In other words, the guide portions 46 extend beyond the perimeter
50 of the
treatment area 48 in a direction parallel to the surface S to be treated). In
this way, the
first surface treatment element 26 is inhibited from hitting or scuffing any
adjacent
structure(s) such as walls or furniture when the surface treatment head 10 is
moved close
to the adjacent structure(s).
In other embodiments, the guide portions 46 extend up to, but not beyond, the
perimeter 50 of the treatment area 48, which may provide a similar effect.
In alternative embodiments, the guide portions are provided within the
perimeter of the
treatment portion, which also inhibits the first surface treatment element 26
from hitting
or scuffing any adjacent structure(s) such as walls or furniture when the
surface treatment
head 10 is moved close to the adjacent structure(s). In the
embodiments of Figures
3, 4, 10, 11 and 17, the guide portions 46 are provided in the form of guide
elements 52
coupled to the chassis 20. In particular, the body 24 of the chassis 20 has a
periphery 54
and the guide elements 52 are coupled to the body 24 such that they are
located proximal
the periphery 54 of the body 24.
In the illustrated embodiment, the body 24 has recesses 56 for accommodating
the
guide elements 52. In Figures 3, 4, 10 and 11, the guide elements 52 on the
left hand
side of the surface treatment head 10 have been omitted to show the recesses
56 of the
body 24 more clearly. However, it will be understood that when fully assembled
the guide
elements 52 would be provided in each of the recesses 56.
In addition to the recesses 56 in the body 24, the first surface treatment
element
26 has recesses 58 for accommodating the guide elements 52. For example, the
recesses
58 in the first treatment element 26 are recessed around the recesses 56 in
the body 24
and the guide elements 52. In the illustrated embodiment, only the drivable
portion 26A
of the first surface treatment element 26 has the recesses 58. In this way,
the guide
elements 52 are displaced with respect to the surface S to be treated (i.e.
spaced apart
from the surface S to be treated) in a direction perpendicular to the surface
S by the
treatment portion 26B. In alternative embodiments, the recesses 58 are also
(or instead)
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provided in the treatment portion 26B, so that the guide elements 52 are
closer to the
surface S.
As can be seen in the isometric views of Figures 3 and 10, the recesses 56 of
the
body 24 are recessed with respect to an upper surface 34 of the body 24, a
front surface
5 and
a side surface of the body 24 (i.e. the periphery 54). Similarly, the recesses
58 of the
first treatment element 26 are recessed with respect to an upper surface of
the first
treatment element 26, a front surface and a side surface of the first
treatment element
26. In an alternative embodiment, the recesses 56, 58 are formed on opposing
facing
surfaces of the body 24 and first treatment element 26 respectively (i.e. a
lower surface
10 of
the body 24 and an upper surface of the first treatment element 26, so that
the recesses
56, 58 are provided between the body 24 and first treatment element 26).
It can be seen that the recesses 56, 58 reduce the overall height and width of
the
surface treatment head 10 at the first and second ends 12, 14 compared with if
the guide
elements 52 were provided on top of and/or to the side of the body 24.
15 In
the illustrated embodiments, the guide elements 52 are provided proximal the
first and second ends 12, 14 of the surface treatment head 10. In particular,
at each end
12, 14 there is a pair of guide elements 52 which define a line 64 linking
outermost points
on the pair of guide elements 52 (shown most clearly in Figure 18). Jr the
illustrated
embodiments, the line 64 is located outside of the treatment area 48. In other
20
embodiments, the line 64 extends at least partly along the perimeter 50 of the
treatment
area 48 or within the treatment area 48.
Similarly, the two front guide elements 52 define a front line 66 linking
outermost
points on the front guide elements 52 (as shown most clearly in Figure 11). In
the
illustrated embodiments, the front line 66 is located outside of the treatment
area 48. In
25
other embodiments, the front line 66 extends at least partly along the
perimeter 50 of the
treatment area 48 or within the treatment area 48.
In the illustrated embodiments, the guide elements 52 are rollers/wheels. In
alternative embodiments, the guide elements are balls. It will be understood
that such
rollers/wheels/balls are configured to reduce friction between the surface
treatment head
30 10
and a structure extending transverse (e.g. perpendicular) to the surface S to
be treated
when the surface treatment head 10 is moved adjacent to said structure in use.
In
alternative embodiments, the guide elements 52 are non-rotating structures
(e.g. pieces
of felt/low friction material coupled to the body 24).
The chassis 20 has mounting arrangements 68, and each guide element 52 is
35
mounted in a respective mounting arrangement 68 such that each guide element
is
configured for rotation with respect to the chassis 20. In particular, the
mounting
arrangements 68 are provided on lower surfaces of the recesses 56 in the body
24. It can
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66
be seen from the isometric views of Figures 3 and 10 that portions of the body
24 bounding
the recesses 56 extend below an upper surface of the first surface treatment
element 26,
from a front surface of the first treatment element 26 and from a side surface
of the first
treatment element 26. The first surface treatment element 26 is recessed
around the
portions of the body 24 bounding the recesses 56 (i.e. around lower, front and
side
surfaces of recesses 56). In other words, the mounting arrangements 68 (i.e.
lower
surfaces of recesses 56) are accommodated in the recesses 58 of the first
treatment
element 26.
In some embodiments, the guide elements 52 are removably mounted to the
chassis 20 (i.e. removably mounted to the mounting arrangements 68) to be
replaced
when worn or changed to a different type (e.g. to adjust how far the linking
lines 64 are
positioned outside the perimeter 50 of the treatment area 48).
In alternative embodiments, instead of guide elements 52 the guide portions 46
are portions of the periphery 54 of the body 24. For example, in the
embodiment of Figure
19 the periphery 54 of the body 24 surrounds the treatment area 48 such that
the
periphery 54 is spaced apart from the perimeter 50 of the treatment area 48.
Although the invention has been described in relation to one or more
embodiments,
it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications can be made
without departing
from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For
example:
It should also be noted that whilst the appended claims set out particular
combinations of features described above, the scope of the present disclosure
is not limited
to the particular combinations hereafter claimed, but instead extends to
encompass any
combination of features herein disclosed.
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