CN221129780U - Liquid dispenser adapted to be coupled with an accessory tool assembly of a surface cleaner - Google Patents

Abstract

The present application relates to a liquid dispenser adapted to be coupled with an accessory tool assembly of a surface cleaner, comprising a distal end and a proximal end. The tip is disposed at the distal end of the liquid dispenser. An orifice defining an interior chamber is disposed within the tip. A flange is disposed at the proximal end of the liquid dispenser. A fluid conduit is disposed within the proximal end. The liquid dispenser further includes an intermediate passage fluidly coupling the fluid conduit with the internal chamber. The intermediate passage may be narrower than each of the inner chamber and the fluid conduit. The orifice is configured to eject fluid therefrom and may be tangential to the fluid conduit such that fluid exiting the fluid conduit changes direction upon entering the intermediate passage.

Description

Liquid dispenser adapted to be coupled with an accessory tool assembly of a surface cleaner

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to liquid dispensers usable with accessory tools of surface cleaners, and more particularly to liquid dispensers for use with accessory tools that can be used with extraction cleaners having a fluid delivery system and a fluid recovery system.

Background

Surface cleaners, such as vacuum cleaners, use suction to collect debris and/or fluid to clean soft surfaces, such as carpets, floors, floor mats, upholstered furniture, etc., as well as hard surfaces, such as wood, vinyl, tile, composite materials, etc. The surface cleaner may be in the form of a "wet" extractor cleaner for cleaning a surface by applying a cleaning solution and then extracting the cleaning solution and entrained debris.

The surface cleaner may be adapted to be held by a user and in some cases include a hose coupled with an accessory tool. Accessory tools for use with surface cleaners typically include an extraction nozzle through which liquid and entrained debris can be extracted from the surface during the cleaning process. A fluid-based cleaner or wet extraction cleaner includes a housing carrying a separate fluid delivery system and fluid recovery system. The fluid delivery system directs the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned, and the fluid recovery system extracts the cleaning fluid and entrained debris from the surface and deposits the extracted fluid and debris in a recovery tank for disposal.

As part of the fluid delivery system, cleaning fluid is dispensed from the fluid supply tank through a fluid supply conduit onto the surface to be cleaned, such as through one or more mouthpiece apertures of an accessory tool or using an external spray mouthpiece. A suction source located on the extraction cleaner generates a suction force to draw the spent fluid and entrained debris from the surface.

Disclosure of utility model

Aspects of a liquid dispenser that may be used with a surface cleaner, such as an extraction cleaner, are disclosed herein. The disclosed accessory tool assembly may include features that make it useful for cleaning various types of surfaces, including but not limited to tile, grout, carpeting, and the like. The accessory tool assembly may be used with an extraction cleaner having a vapor delivery system and may be used with an extraction cleaner having no vapor delivery system.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, a liquid dispenser adapted to be coupled with an accessory tool assembly of a surface cleaner includes a distal end and a proximal end. The tip is disposed at the distal end of the liquid dispenser. An orifice defining an interior chamber is disposed within the tip. A flange is disposed at the proximal end of the liquid dispenser. A fluid conduit is disposed within the proximal end. The liquid dispenser further includes an intermediate passage fluidly coupling the fluid conduit with the internal chamber. The intermediate passage may be narrower than each of the inner chamber and the fluid conduit. The orifice is configured to eject fluid therefrom and may be tangential to the fluid conduit such that fluid exiting the fluid conduit changes direction upon entering the intermediate passage.

The above features and advantages and other features and advantages of the present teachings will be readily apparent from the following detailed description of the best modes and other aspects for carrying out the present teachings when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings as defined in the appended claims.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a surface cleaner and accessory cleaning tool assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a portable extraction cleaner and accessory tool assembly with a hose assembly deployed from a main housing, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an accessory tool assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a partial bottom view of the accessory tool assembly of FIG. 3 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is an isolated top perspective view of a fluid dispenser according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is an isolated cross-sectional view of the fluid dispenser of FIG. 5 taken through line XVI-XVI in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7A is an isolated top perspective view of a fluid dispenser according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7B is an isolated cross-sectional view of the fluid dispenser of FIG. 7A taken through line VIIB-VIIB in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure; and

Fig. 8A-8C are isolated front, bottom and top views, respectively, of a tip insert according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

The embodiments shown herein reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to cleaning tools for surface cleaners. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Furthermore, like reference numerals in the specification and drawings denote like elements.

For purposes of the description herein, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in fig. 1. Unless otherwise indicated, the term "front" shall refer to the surface closest to the intended observer, and the term "rear" shall refer to the surface furthest from the intended observer. However, it is to be understood that the present disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific constructions and processes illustrated in the drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept as defined in the appended claims. Thus, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

The terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further constraints, the preceding element "comprising … …" does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

Referring to fig. 1-7, the reference numeral 20 generally designates an accessory tool assembly adapted to be coupled to a hose 40 of a surface cleaner 22 (such as an extraction cleaner) that includes a suction source 52. The accessory tool assembly 20 includes a tool head 42 and at least one fluid dispenser 34 for supplying and directing cleaning fluid therethrough. The tool head 42 includes a front end 128 and a rear end 122 opposite the front end 128. The longitudinal direction 126 extends through the front end 128 and the rear end 122, and the transverse direction 134 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 126. The rear end 122 is configured to fluidly couple with the hose 40 of the extractor cleaner 22. The tool head 42 includes a working surface 116 on the underside 118 of the front end 128 that defines a working surface edge 136. A plurality of agitators 138 extend from the working surface 116 adjacent at least a portion of the working surface edge 136 and define a first interior region 140 therein. The extraction nozzle 45 is positioned in the first interior region 140 and defines at least a portion of the suction inlet 46.

At least one fluid dispenser 34 described herein is shown as a fluid dispenser that may be adapted for use with an accessory tool that may be used with any suitable type of surface cleaner. While the figures and the following description illustrate and describe a portable extraction cleaner as an exemplary type of surface cleaner 22, this is for illustrative purposes only, as accessory tool assembly 20 may be used with any type of surface cleaner. Accordingly, it is within the scope of the present disclosure that the surface cleaners include any suitable cleaner, including, but not limited to, various dry vacuum cleaners, extraction cleaners, hand-held cleaners, and upright surface cleaners. For example, the surface cleaner 22 may be in the form of a hand-held extractor cleaner, an upright extractor cleaner, a canister extractor cleaner, and the like.

A portable surface cleaner, such as surface cleaner 22, as described herein and shown in fig. 2, is configured to be held by a user to perform a cleaning operation, and is therefore portable. These portable surface cleaners can perform the same or similar functions as the upright surface cleaners. Portable surface cleaners (e.g., portable extraction cleaners) and upright surface cleaners can provide a suction effect to extract debris located on or in an underlying surface. In general, portable surface cleaners are smaller and lighter than upright surface cleaners. Alternatively, the surface cleaner 22 may be in the form of a surface cleaner 22 with vapor delivery. In addition, the surface cleaner 22 may be an extraction cleaner that delivers cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned and extracts cleaning fluid and debris from the surface.

Referring now to fig. 1-3, accessory tool assembly 20 can be coupled with surface cleaner 22 to provide suction and/or deliver cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned. Thus, surface cleaner 22 may include a main body or pod that includes a main housing 24 that houses the various components and functional systems of surface cleaner 22. The surface cleaner 22 includes a fluid delivery system 26 that may be configured to store a cleaning fluid and deliver or supply the cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned (e.g., via fluid dispensers 34, 36). The surface cleaner 22 also includes a recovery system 28 that may be configured to remove fluid and debris from the surface to be cleaned and temporarily store (e.g., in a recovery tank) the recovered fluid and debris. Non-limiting examples of extraction cleaners with which the fluid dispensers 34, 36 may be used are disclosed in U.S. patent publication No. 2019/0357748; U.S. patent No. 9,474,424; U.S. patent No. 8,549,697; U.S. patent No. 7,073,226; U.S. patent No. 10,188,252; and U.S. patent number 9,107,558, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

More particularly, the fluid delivery system 26 may be a liquid and/or vapor delivery system 26 configured to store a cleaning fluid and deliver the cleaning fluid in the form of liquid, vapor, or both to a surface to be cleaned. In some aspects, a portion of fluid delivery system 26 may optionally include vapor delivery system 30, or vapor delivery system 30 may be considered separate from liquid and/or vapor delivery system 26, or in some examples, surface cleaner 22 may be absent vapor delivery system 30.

The main housing 24 may be adapted to selectively mount components of the fluid delivery system 26 and the recovery system 28 to form a unit that may be easily transported by a user to different locations having a surface to be cleaned. For portability, the surface cleaner 22 may optionally be adapted to be hand-held by a user. Non-limiting examples of areas that may be cleaned include floors (tile, hardwood, engineered wood, carpeting, etc.), showers, bathtubs, floor mats, upholstered furniture, vehicle interiors, curtains, and mattresses.

Still referring to fig. 1-3, the fluid delivery system 26 may include a supply tank 32 for storing a supply of cleaning fluid, a first fluid dispenser 34 remote from the main housing 24 (e.g., for liquid), and a second fluid dispenser 36 remote from the main housing 24 (e.g., for vapor). A heater 38 may be disposed in the flow path between the supply tank 32 and the steam dispenser 36 to heat the cleaning fluid to generate steam. Note that as used herein, the terms "distributor (distributor)", "distributor", "eductor", and "outlet" may be used interchangeably.

In one aspect, the fluid dispensers 34, 36 or fluid outlets are disposed on an accessory tool assembly 20 that may be coupled with the main housing 24 by a flexible hose 40. In one aspect, the accessory tool assembly 20 can include an interchangeable tool head 42 and an optional stem 44. As described in more detail at least with respect to fig. 4, the dispensers 34, 36 may be provided on the stem 44 or on the tool head 42. As used herein, the term "wand" may refer to a handle or grip or tool coupling that is fluidly coupled to a flexible hose at the distal end of the flexible hose. However, the term "wand" may also encompass flexible hose 40 such that wand 44 comprises a flexible hose alone or in combination with a handle/grip as is known in the art. In some embodiments, the hose adapter 96 connects the flexible hose 40 to the main housing 24 such that the hose 40, wand 44, and hose adapter 96 form a removable hose assembly in which the wand 44 interchangeably receives one of the various tool heads (e.g., 42). The term "fluid dispenser" may refer to a fluid mouthpiece configured to direct a liquid therefrom in a desired direction. Further, the fluid dispensers 34, 36 may define openings sized and shaped to achieve a desired pressure at the openings during a desired flow rate, as will be described in further detail with reference to fig. 5 and 6.

The cleaning fluid stored by supply tank 32 may include one or more of any suitable cleaning liquids. As used herein, the term "cleaning fluid" primarily encompasses fluids provided to a surface and may include steam, water, compositions, concentrated detergents, diluted detergents, fragrances, deodorizers, and the like, or mixtures thereof. For example, the fluid may comprise a mixture of water and concentrated detergent. The cleaning fluid may be stored in liquid form.

The heater 38 preferably heats the cleaning fluid to about 100 ℃, where "about" includes + -10 ℃. The temperature may be the temperature at the vapor distributor 36. The set point of the heater 38 may be higher because there may be some heat loss between the outlet of the heater 38 and the steam distributor 36. One non-limiting example of a set point for heater 38 is about 165 deg.c to about 180 deg.c. Some non-limiting examples of suitable heaters 38 include, but are not limited to, flash heaters, boilers, immersion heaters, and flow-through steam generators.

The heater 38 may generate steam. As used herein, the term "vapor" includes cleaning fluids that are at least partially converted to a gas or vapor phase, such as, but not limited to, water or a solution containing water (e.g., water mixed with cleaning chemicals, fragrances, etc.). The cleaning fluid may be boiled or otherwise at least partially converted to a gas or vapor phase by heating. The cleaning fluid may be heated to about 100±10 ℃.

The recovery system 28 includes an extraction path 37 or suction path that may terminate in an extraction nozzle 45 for the accessory tool assembly 20 that forms or defines a "suction inlet" 46 suitable for use on a surface to be cleaned. The recovery system 28 also includes a flexible hose 40 that defines or includes at least a portion of a vacuum or suction conduit 50 in fluid communication with the extraction nozzle 45 and recovery tank 48 along the extraction path 37. The recovery tank 48 may be removably mounted on the main housing 24 to dispose of the recovered fluid(s) and/or debris from the fluid. In this manner, the recovery system 28 may be in the form of a fluid and/or debris recovery system.

Recovery system 28 further includes a suction source 52, such as a motor/fan assembly, for example, including a vacuum motor 54, in fluid communication with suction nozzle 45 for generating a working air flow to draw in liquid and entrained debris from suction inlet 46 and through suction path 37. Suction source 52 may be fluidly disposed downstream of recovery tank 48 such that recovered fluid and debris may be deposited into recovery tank 48, although other extraction paths are possible. In this manner, the extraction nozzle 45 and flexible hose 40 may be in fluid communication with the suction source 52 to form at least a portion of the suction path 37, which creates a working air flow to draw in liquid and entrained debris through the accessory tool assembly 20. As used herein, the term "debris" may include dirt, dust, soil, hair, loose material or other messy matter, and the like. As used herein, the term "recovered fluid" primarily encompasses liquids recovered from a surface and may include water, clay-like materials, grime, dirty components, cleaning fluids, and the like, or mixtures thereof.

As shown in fig. 2, the accessory tool assembly 20 and hose 40 are shown as one non-limiting example in a use or operational position, wherein the accessory tool assembly 20 exits the housing 24 and the hose 40 is deployed and extended from the housing 24 while remaining fluidly coupled to the housing 24. Alternatively, the surface cleaner 22 may be provided with more than one hand-held cleaning tool or tool attachment. As shown in fig. 2, the first tool head 42 is shown connected to a rod 44. The first tool head 42 may be uncoupled or removed from the wand 44 or hose 40 and replaced with a second tool head. The wand 44 or tool head 42 may include one or more spray triggers 64 for dispensing cleaning fluid and/or steam. A fastening mechanism 66 (e.g., a release button) may be provided on the tool head 42 and/or on the wand 44 and/or hose 40 for fastening the tool head 42 and wand 44 and/or hose 40 together.

Referring to fig. 2, a user interface 68 may be provided through which a user may provide input to control the surface cleaner 22, including a system or component of the surface cleaner. The user interface may be provided on the surface cleaner 22, but is not limited to such a location. For example, at least a portion of the user interface 68 controls may be provided on the tool head(s) 42. As described in further detail below, the user interface 68 receives input to control the supply of power from the power source of the surface cleaner 22 to one or more electrical components of the surface cleaner 22. The power source of surface cleaner 22 may, for example, include a power cord 70 electrically coupled to a main power source, or a battery onboard surface cleaner 22.

Referring back to fig. 1, a variety of other components and combinations of components may be incorporated into the fluid delivery system 26 and the vapor delivery system 30, such as pumps, valves, and/or fluid control features, as well as suitable conduits or pipes fluidly connecting the components of the fluid delivery system 26 and the vapor delivery system 30 together to effect the supply of cleaning fluid and/or vapor to the dispensers 34, 36.

As shown, the fluid delivery system 26 includes a flow control system for controlling the flow of fluid from the supply tank 32 to the dispensers 34, 36. In one configuration, the flow control system may include a liquid supply pump 72 that pressurizes a liquid dispensing path 74 of the fluid delivery system 26 and is capable of delivering cleaning fluid to the liquid dispenser 34. Fluid delivery system 26 and/or vapor delivery system 30 may include a vapor supply pump 76 that pressurizes a vapor distribution path 78 of fluid delivery system 26 and/or vapor delivery system 30 and is capable of delivering vapor to vapor distributor 36. The pumps 72, 76 may be any suitable pump such as, but not limited to, electromagnetic pumps, centrifugal pumps, and the like. Although separate pumps 72, 76 are shown for supplying fluid to the dispensers 34, 36, respectively, it is within the scope of the present disclosure to utilize a single, split, or multi-stage pump to supply fluid to the dispensers 34, 36.

In some embodiments, the liquid pump 72 may deliver cleaning fluid at a higher flow rate than the vapor pump 76. In one non-limiting example, the flow ratio of liquid to vapor is about 4:1 to about 30:1. in particular embodiments, the flow ratio of liquid to vapor may be about 10:1. in another non-limiting example, the liquid pump 72 delivers cleaning liquid at a flow rate of about 300mL/min to 1000mL/min (measured at the liquid distributor 34), and the vapor pump 76 delivers vapor at a flow rate of about 30mL/min to 100mL/min (measured at the vapor distributor 36). In a particular embodiment, the liquid pump 72 delivers cleaning liquid at a flow rate of about 400mL/min and the vapor pump 76 delivers vapor at a flow rate of about 40 mL/min. Further, the pumps 72, 76 may have multiple speeds and/or flows such that the flow of cleaning fluid discharged from the dispensers 34, 36 may vary. For example, the user interface 68 may include inputs for controlling the modulation of the pumps 72, 76 so that a user may vary the flow rate of the discharged cleaning fluid. In particular embodiments, at least a portion of the user interface 68 is disposed on the accessory tool assembly 20.

The liquid dispensing path 74 and the vapor dispensing path 78 may include one or more tubes, pipes, hoses, etc. to fluidly couple the components of the fluid delivery system 26 together. As shown in fig. 1, a portion of the suction conduit 50, the liquid dispensing path 74, and the vapor dispensing path 78 may be included in the hose 40 and the accessory tool assembly 20. In some embodiments, the paths 74, 78 may include separate liquid lines or conduits 80 and vapor lines or conduits 82, respectively, routed through or otherwise disposed on the hose 40 for delivering cleaning liquid and/or vapor to the outlets/dispensers 34, 36 for dispensing through the outlets/dispensers. The suction conduit 50 may be fluidly connected to the extraction nozzle 45 to transfer liquid and entrained debris to the recovery tank 48. Various suitable air, liquid, and vapor connections may be provided at either end of hose 40 and/or wand 44 for connection with fluid delivery system 26 and recovery system 28, such as with main housing 24 and components of accessory tool assembly 20, as described in further detail below.

Still referring to fig. 1, and in some aspects, the dispensing of the cleaning fluid may be controlled at least in part by a user at the accessory tool assembly 20. For example, surface cleaner 22 may include distribution valves 84, 86 that control the flow of cleaning fluid through distributors 34, 36, respectively. The dispensers 34, 36 may be configured to dispense cleaning fluid when the dispensing valves 84, 86 are "open". In addition to this function, the dispensing valve 84 is not particularly limited and may include any component and/or configuration suitable for use in/as a dispensing valve. The dispensing valves 84, 86 may be disposed, for example, on the wand 44 and/or the hose 40 or the tool head 42 of the accessory tool assembly 20, and may be associated with appropriate user controls (such as one or more triggers 64) for operating the valves 84, 86. In this manner, the trigger(s) 64 may allow fluid to flow through the catheter and accessory tool assembly 20.

A check valve 88 may be disposed in the fluid path between the supply tank 32 and the heater 38. Check valve 88 may be disposed, for example, in the fluid path downstream of pump 76 and upstream of heater 38. In another aspect, a check valve 88 may be disposed in the fluid path downstream of the supply tank 32 and upstream of the pump 76. The check valve 88 may provide one-way flow of fluid through the path 78 by preventing backflow into the supply tank 32. In this manner, the check valve 88 may also be configured for unidirectional flow into or through the heater 38 (e.g., in one direction from the supply tank 32 to the heater 38). In addition to this function, the check valve 88 is not particularly limited and may include any component and/or configuration suitable for use as/as a check valve. In some aspects, when present, the check valve 88 may inhibit forward flow of liquid from the supply tank 32 in the event negative pressure is created in the fluid path 78 (which may be caused by cooling of the heater 38). Accordingly, the check valve 88 may inhibit and/or minimize leakage of liquid from the supply tank 32 through the path 78 when the heater 38 is deactivated after use and/or when the heater 38 is activated but the user is not actively dispensing steam. Leakage of liquid from the supply tank 32 after deactivation of the heater 38 may result in liquid remaining in the path 78 such that the next time a user uses the cleaner 22 in a mode or operation that includes vapor, such liquid remaining in the path 78 from a previous use may be dispensed prior to dispensing the vapor, which may be undesirable to the user.

Still referring to fig. 1, a first or positive pressure relief device 90 may be provided in the fluid path between the supply tank 32 and the hose 40 to control or limit the pressure in the fluid delivery system 26. Pressure relief device 90 may be opened at a predetermined positive pressure threshold to protect fluid delivery system 26 from high pressures exceeding its design criteria. When the threshold pressure is met or exceeded, the pressure relief device 90 may divert the cleaning fluid to the recovery tank 48 through the bypass line 92. In addition to this function, the pressure relief device 90 is not particularly limited and may include any component and/or configuration suitable for/serving as a pressure relief member. In one embodiment, pressure relief device 90 is a spring valve that opens below a predetermined threshold.

During steam generation, pressure builds in fluid delivery system 26 unless the pressure is released. For example, the pressure is released by dispensing steam from the steam dispenser 36. When the heater 38 is activated and there is a blockage in the vapor distribution path 78 or the vapor valve 86 is otherwise held closed for a period of time, pressure will build up in the fluid delivery system 26 as the liquid is heated and vapor is generated. When the pressure in fluid delivery system 26 reaches a threshold pressure value, pressure relief device 90 opens and cleaning fluid is circulated to recovery tank 48 via bypass line 92, allowing pressure to "drain" via recovery system 28. Once the pressure in fluid delivery system 26 drops below a threshold (which may occur if steam is released from path 78 or if cleaner 22 is de-energized), pressure relief device 90 closes. The recovery tank 48 is fluidly coupled to an air flow generated by the suction source 52 or the vacuum motor 54 such that when the vacuum motor 54 is de-energized, the recovery tank 48 may be vented to atmospheric pressure through the vacuum motor exhaust path.

The predetermined threshold pressure value may be, for example, about 10PSI (pounds per square inch), about 11PSI, about 12PSI, about 13PSI, about 14PSI, or about 15PSI, although it should be appreciated that the predetermined threshold pressure value may vary depending on design constraints of the portable surface cleaner 22. In some aspects, pressure relief device 90 may be configured to begin opening when a first predetermined threshold pressure value is reached and then to fully open when a second predetermined threshold pressure value greater than the first predetermined threshold pressure value is reached. For example, the pressure relief device 90 may be configured to begin opening when the pressure reaches about 10PSI and to fully open when the pressure reaches about 15 PSI.

In some aspects, an optional second or negative pressure relief device 94 is disposed in the vapor distribution path 78, as shown in FIG. 1. The second pressure relief device 94 may be configured to open to the ambient environment at a predetermined threshold negative pressure value. In addition to this function, the pressure relief device 94 is not particularly limited and may include any component and/or configuration suitable for/serving as a pressure relief member. In one embodiment, the second pressure relief device 94 is a spring valve that opens at a predetermined set pressure or threshold pressure value.

When heater 38 cools (e.g., when surface cleaner 22 is powered down or a user selects a mode that does not include steam), a negative pressure may be generated in steam distribution path 78. Surface cleaner 22 may attempt to equalize this pressure by drawing liquid from fluid delivery system 26 into vapor distribution path 78. This may result in liquid remaining in the vapor distribution path 78 during storage or during the interval between usage conditions. This liquid remaining in the vapor dispensing path 78 may then be dispensed the next time the user opens the valve 86, which may be surprising and undesirable. Additionally, fluid may be undesirable to remain in the vapor distribution path 78 during long term storage. The second pressure relief device 94 may be configured to open to atmosphere at a predetermined threshold negative pressure value (e.g., -1 PSI) to prevent or minimize the amount of liquid drawn into the vapor distribution path 78 from the fluid delivery system 26 during cooling of the heater 38. Once the pressure in the vapor distribution path 78 rises above the set negative pressure threshold, the pressure relief device 94 closes.

Fig. 5-8C illustrate various views of the accessory tool assembly 20 and the fluid dispensers 34, 36 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. More specifically, fig. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the accessory tool assembly 20, fig. 4 illustrates a partial bottom view of the accessory tool assembly 20 of fig. 3, and fig. 5 illustrates an isolated view of the fluid dispensers 34, 36 of the accessory tool assembly 20.

The accessory tool assembly 20 may include a variety of configurations, such as a configuration in which the accessory tool assembly 20 may include a tool head 42 having a suction inlet 46 and liquid/vapor dispensers 34, 36, or a configuration in which the accessory tool assembly 20 may include a tool head 42 having a suction inlet 46 and an interior cavity configured to receive a wand 44 (or hose 40) carrying the liquid/vapor dispensers 34, 36. As these and other configurations are within the scope of the present disclosure, the description of the accessory tool assembly 20 or the tool head 42 herein below may also apply to other configurations.

Referring now to fig. 5, the accessory tool assembly 20 includes a tool head 42 having a front end 128 and a rear end 122 opposite the front end 128. The front end 128 and the rear end 122 define respective forward and rearward directions 130, 132. The longitudinal direction 126 extends through the front end 128 and the rear end 122, while the transverse direction 134 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 126.

As previously discussed, in some aspects, the tool head 42 includes a suction conduit 104 and at least one fluid conduit, such as a liquid conduit 106 and a vapor conduit 108. Thus, the suction conduit 104 may be configured to connect to the fluid recovery system 28 at the rear end 122, and each of the liquid conduit 106/vapor conduit 108 may be configured to connect to a respective one of the fluid delivery system 26 and the vapor delivery system 30 at the rear end 122. These connections at the rear end 122 of the tool head 42 may be facilitated by suitable fluid connections or fittings disposed or located on the rear end 122 of the tool head 42.

Turning now to fig. 4, the working surface 116 on the underside 118 of the front end 128 of the tool head 42 is shown in more detail. The working surface 116 may be circumscribed, surrounded, or defined by a working surface edge 136 surrounding the working surface. In other words, the working surface 116 may define a working surface edge 136, which may be in the form of a peripheral edge. The plurality of agitators 138 may be disposed on the working surface 116 along and adjacent to the working surface edge 136 or extend/protrude from the working surface and disposed on a first interior region 140, which may be defined within or inside the working surface edge 136 (and/or within or inside the plurality of agitators 138 adjacent to the working surface edge 136). The agitator 138 may extend completely or partially around the perimeter of the working surface 116 defined by the working surface edge 136. Stirrer 138 may be in the form of any suitable stirring feature, which may include, but is not limited to: bristles, nub projections, paddles, bars, tufts, brushes, needles, and the like.

As shown in fig. 4, 6 and 7B, the suction inlet 46 (which is defined by a suction nozzle) is disposed within the first interior region 140. The suction inlet 46 is in fluid communication with the suction conduit(s) 104, 50, and each of the at least one fluid dispenser 34, 36 is in fluid communication with a respective one of the first fluid conduit 106 and the second fluid conduit 108. As previously described, the at least one fluid distributor 34, 36 may be at least one of a liquid distributor 34 and a vapor distributor 36, wherein the first fluid conduit 106 and the second fluid conduit 108 are liquid conduits and vapor conduits, respectively. As shown in fig. 4, one or more of the fluid dispensers 34, 36 may be disposed rearwardly (i.e., in a rearward direction 132) relative to the suction inlet 46.

Still referring to fig. 4, an optional wall or ridge 186 may extend or protrude outwardly from the working surface 116 of the underside 118 of the tool head 42 within the first interior region 140, thereby defining a third interior region 188 therein. In some aspects, wall 186 forms at least a portion of extraction nozzle 45

Turning now to fig. 5-6, illustrative fluid dispensers 34, 36 are shown in isolation from accessory tool assembly 20. As previously discussed, the fluid dispensers 34, 36 may refer to fluid dispensers or ejectors configured to direct liquid therefrom in a desired direction. The fluid dispensers 34, 36 define openings 198, 200, respectively, sized and shaped to achieve a desired pressure at the openings 198, 200 during a desired flow of fluid therethrough. In one embodiment, the first fluid dispenser 34 may be a liquid dispenser defining a first or liquid opening 198 and the second fluid dispenser 36 may be a vapor dispenser defining a second or vapor opening 200. Liquid dispenser 34 includes a tip 202 at a distal end 204 and a flange 206 at a proximal end 208. Likewise, the vapor distributor 36 includes a tip 210 at a distal end 212 and a flange 214 at a proximal end 216. In some aspects, the openings 198, 200 are tangential relative to the longitudinal axis of the fluid dispensers 34, 36, respectively. Tips 202 and 210 include or define openings 198, 200, respectively, which may be in the form of orifices configured to eject fluid therefrom.

As shown, the opening 198 in the tip 202 of the liquid dispenser 34 defines a flared interior 220 or chamber. The flared interior 220 may include a narrower portion inward from a wider rectangular portion. In this manner, the flared interior 220 may form a spray pattern of liquid sprayed therefrom into a desired configuration, such as a wide fan shape, but is not limited to such a shape. As shown, the tip 210 of the vapor distributor 36 defines a hollow, frustoconical protrusion 222 at the opening 200. In this way, the tapered protrusions 222 may form the spray pattern of liquid sprayed therefrom into a desired configuration, such as a full taper, but are not limited to such a shape. Exemplary spray patterns that the fluid dispensers 34, 36 may form include, but are not limited to: flat fan shape, hollow cone shape, full cone shape, solid flow, etc.

Turning to fig. 6, the illustrated tip 210 of the vapor distributor 36 defines a frustoconical interior 224 or chamber at the opening 200 that is tangential to the second fluid conduit 108. The frustoconical interior 224 may be fluidly coupled to the second fluid conduit 108 by an intermediate passage 226. In some examples, the intermediate channel 226 defines a straight channel that widens into the interior 224. In this manner, the intermediate channel 226 may be narrower (e.g., have a smaller diameter) than each of the second fluid conduit 108 and the interior 224 at the opening 200. In some examples, the interior 224 and the opening 200 or orifice generate a spray pattern having an angle in the range of about 15 ° to 30 ° (e.g., 22.5 °). In particular embodiments, the orifice or opening 200 may comprise a diameter of approximately 2mm to 3mm (e.g., 2.5 mm), and the intermediate passage 226 may comprise a diameter of approximately 1mm to 1.3mm (e.g., 1.15 mm).

The tip 210 is specifically configured to improve the performance of the vapor distributor 36 by reducing or minimizing dripping. In conventional steam terminations, the interior includes a straight or angled interior passage (e.g., axial configuration) extending between the fluid conduit and the spray tip opening, dripping through the tip 210 may be significantly reduced as compared to conventional steam terminations. In some examples, a conventional vapor tip may have a drop rate of about 2 drops/second or 120 drops/minute, while vapor dispenser 36 may include a drop rate of only about 10-20 drops/minute. A narrower intermediate passage 226 coupling the fluid conduit 108 with a wider chamber at the opening 200, such as the tapered interior chamber 224, may reduce the vapor tip drip rate, which is desirable to the user. Furthermore, the change in fluid flow direction due to the tangential positioning of the intermediate passage 226 and the interior 224 at the opening 200 relative to the second fluid conduit 108 may cause a synergistic effect with respect to each other with the aforementioned shape/volume of the fluid conduit 108, the narrower intermediate passage 226, and the chamber at the opening 200 (such as the tapered interior chamber 224).

Referring to fig. 7A-8C, another exemplary fluid dispenser 36a is shown isolated from the accessory tool assembly 20. The fluid dispenser 36a is similar to the fluid dispenser 36. Accordingly, the description of fluid dispenser 36 applies to fluid dispenser 36a unless otherwise indicated. The primary difference between the fluid dispenser 36 and the fluid dispenser 36a is that the fluid dispenser 36a is in the form of a multi-piece construction with a tip insert 300. However, while described as tip insert 300, fluid dispenser 36a is not limited to this configuration and may be in the form of a single piece construction, such as shown in fig. 6. Tip insert 300 may be made of any suitable material, such as a polymer or metallic material, that creates a smooth surface for vapor or other liquid to flow over. In one embodiment, the fluid dispenser 36a may be a vapor dispenser defining a second or vapor opening 302 sized and shaped to achieve a desired pressure at the opening 302 during a desired flow of fluid therethrough. Tip insert 300 may be inserted into distal end 304 of fluid dispenser 36a. Barbs (barb) or flanges 306 may be disposed at the proximal end 308. In some aspects, the opening 302 is tangential to the fluid dispenser 36a and the second fluid conduit 108. Tip insert 300 includes an opening 302, which may be in the form of an orifice configured to eject fluid therefrom.

As shown, in fig. 7B, the tip insert 300 of the illustrated vapor distributor 36a defines a cylindrical interior 310 at the opening 302 that is tangential to the second fluid conduit 108. However, while shown as a cylindrical interior 310, the interior 310 may comprise any suitable configuration, such as, but not limited to, a conical shape, a frustoconical shape, and the like. For example, similar to the frustoconical shaped interior 224 of fig. 6, the interior 310 may have a frustoconical shape. In some examples, the interior 310 and the opening 302 provide a spray pattern having an angle in the range of about 15 ° to 30 ° (e.g., 22.5 °). The interior 310 may be fluidly coupled to the second fluid conduit 108 by an intermediate channel 312. In some examples, the intermediate channel 312 defines a straight channel that widens into the interior 310. Thus, as discussed with respect to intermediate passage 226, intermediate passage 312 may be narrower than each of fluid conduit 108 and interior 310 at opening 302. Thus, as previously discussed, the fluid dispenser 36a is configured to minimize dripping.

Turning to fig. 8A-8C, and in particular embodiments, the opening 302 may include an opening diameter 314 of approximately 2mm to 3mm (e.g., 2.2 mm), and the intermediate channel 312 may include a channel diameter 316 of approximately 1mm to 1.3mm (e.g., 1.15 mm). Tip insert 300 may include a length 318 of approximately 4mm to 5mm (e.g., 4.5 mm). The tip insert may have a maximum tip diameter or first tip diameter 320 of about 3mm to 5mm (e.g., 3.8 mm) at the distal end. The tip insert may have a minimum tip diameter or second tip diameter 322 of about 2.5mm to 3.5mm (e.g., 2.6mm to 2.8 mm) at the proximal end. The tip insert 300 is specifically configured to improve the performance of the vapor distributor 36a by reducing or minimizing dripping. Dripping through the tip insert 300 may be significantly reduced compared to conventional steam tips. In some examples, a conventional vapor tip may have a drop rate of about 2 drops/second or 120 drops/minute, while fluid dispenser 36a may include a drop rate of only about 10-20 drops/minute.

As previously discussed, the tool head 42 of the accessory tool assembly 20 may be configured for selective attachment and detachment with at least one of the accessory hose 40 and the accessory wand 44 at the rear end 122 of the tool head 42. Additionally, the tool head 42 may be configured for selective attachment and detachment with the fluid delivery system 26, the vapor delivery system 30, and/or the fluid recovery system 28 at the rear end 122 of the tool head 42, such as by including appropriate connectors or fittings at the rear end 122 of the tool head 42 that may mate with and fluidly connect with corresponding connectors or fittings on the wand 44 or accessory hose 40.

Alternatively, one or more of the fluid dispensers 34, 36 may be disposed within the first interior region 140 between the suction nozzle 45 and the rear end of the tool head 42. The tool head 42 may further include a wall 186 extending outwardly from the working surface 116 within the first interior region 140 and at least partially surrounding the suction inlet 46.

While accessory tool assembly 20 is shown on a portable device adapted to be carried by a user to clean a relatively small area, in other aspects the functional system of surface cleaner 22 may be arranged into other configurations, such as an upright device having a base and an upstanding body for guiding movement of the base over a surface to be cleaned, a canister device having a cleaning facility connected to a wheeled base by a vacuum hose, or a commercial device. Any of the foregoing cleaners may be adapted to include a flexible vacuum hose that may form part of a working air conduit between the mouthpiece and the suction source. However, the accessory tool assembly 20 is not limited to use with the above-described cleaners, and the accessory tool assembly 20 may be used with any suitable surface cleaning apparatus.

Although surface cleaner 22 is shown as an extraction cleaner, in other aspects, surface cleaner 22 includes a vapor delivery function such that surface cleaner 22 has vapor delivery capability but no extraction capability. Alternatively, the surface cleaner 22 may be in the form of a "dry" vacuum cleaner that does not include a steam or "wet" extraction function system.

To the extent not yet described, the different features and structures of the various aspects of the disclosure may be used in combination with one another as desired. Thus, the various features of the different aspects may be mixed and matched as desired to form new aspects, whether or not new aspects are explicitly described herein.

The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Although the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to be illustrative, they are in no way limiting and are exemplary configurations. In the appended claims, the use of the terms "first," "second," "top," "bottom," etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical or positional requirements on their objects. As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding plural such elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. In addition, the phrase "at least one of a and B" and the phrase "a and/or B" should each be understood to mean "a only, B only, or both a and B". Furthermore, unless expressly stated to the contrary, a configuration of one or more elements "comprising" or "having" a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property. And when used herein to modify adjectives such as "substantially" and "approximately," these adjectives mean "mostly," "mainly," "for most," "to a great extent," and/or "at least 51% to 99% of the 100% possible," and do not necessarily mean "perfectly," "completely," "strictly," "completely," or "100%".

This written description uses examples to include the best mode to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the devices, systems, and compositions of matter and to perform methods in accordance with the present disclosure. The appended claims, including equivalents, define the scope of the disclosure.

Claims (10)

1. A liquid dispenser adapted to be coupled with an accessory tool assembly of a surface cleaner, the liquid dispenser comprising:

A distal end and a proximal end;

A tip disposed at the distal end;

An orifice defining an interior chamber within the tip;

A flange disposed at the proximal end;

A fluid conduit within the proximal end; and

An intermediate channel fluidly coupling the fluid conduit with the interior chamber, wherein the intermediate channel is narrower than each of the interior chamber and the fluid conduit, further wherein the orifice is configured to eject fluid therefrom and tangential to the fluid conduit such that fluid exiting the fluid conduit changes direction upon entering the intermediate channel.

2. The liquid dispenser of claim 1, wherein the interior chamber of the orifice is tapered.

3. The liquid dispenser of claim 1, wherein the interior chamber of the orifice is frustoconical in shape adapted to be coupled with an accessory tool assembly of a surface cleaner.

4. The liquid dispenser of claim 1 adapted to couple with an accessory tool assembly of a surface cleaner, wherein the intermediate channel is straight.

5. The liquid dispenser adapted to be coupled with an accessory tool assembly of a surface cleaner of claim 1, wherein the orifice has a diameter in the range of 2mm to 3 mm.

6. The liquid dispenser of claim 1, wherein the orifice generates a spray pattern having an angle in the range of 15 ° to 30 °.

7. The liquid dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the tip is in the form of a tip insert.

8. The liquid dispenser adapted to be coupled with an accessory tool assembly of a surface cleaner of claim 7, wherein the interior chamber of the orifice is cylindrical.

9. The liquid dispenser of claim 7, wherein the tip insert has a first tip diameter at a distal end thereof and a second tip diameter smaller than the first tip diameter.

10. The liquid dispenser adapted to be coupled with an accessory tool assembly of a surface cleaner of claim 7, wherein the tip insert has a length in the range of 4mm to 5 mm.