SQUEEGEE DEVICE

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Japanese patent application no. 2024-106920 filed on Jul. 2, 2024, and to Japanese patent application no. 2024-106843 filed on Jul. 2, 2024, the contents of both of which are fully incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The techniques disclosed in the present specification relate to squeegee devices, which may be advantageously utilized with a floor cleaning device, such as a scrubber dryer for cleaning floors, sidewalks, etc.

BACKGROUND ART

A related floor scrubbing device is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0211239.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A squeegee device may be mounted on a floor washer (floor cleaning device), such as a scrubber dryer. The blade(s) (wiper(s)) of the squeegee device may be removed from the floor washer, for example, to perform maintenance on the squeegee device. There is a demand for techniques that enable blades to be more easily attached to and detached from a floor cleaning device.

It is one non-limiting object of the present teachings to disclose techniques for attaching and detaching blades to/from a floor cleaning device, such as a scrubber dryer.

In one non-limiting aspect of the present teachings, a squeegee device (e.g., for use with a floor cleaning device, such as a scrubber dryer) may comprise a squeegee and a holder that extends in a left-right direction, which holds the squeegee. The squeegee may have a blade, a body on which the blade is mounted, and a plate, which traps (fixes, presses, holds, sandwiches) the blade against the body.

According to the techniques disclosed herein, the blades can be easily attached to and detached from a floor cleaning device, such as a scrubber dryer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view schematically showing a scrubber dryer according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a side view schematically showing the scrubber dryer according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view from the upper left front, showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view from the upper right rear, showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view from the lower left front, showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a top view showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a bottom view showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a front view showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a rear view showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a left side view showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a right side view showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view from the upper right rear, showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a holder according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a portion of the holder according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a squeegee according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view from the upper right rear, showing the squeegee according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view from the upper left front, showing a portion of the squeegee according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view from the upper right rear, showing a portion of the squeegee according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a left side view showing the squeegee according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view from the upper left front, showing the squeegee according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view from the upper left front, serving to describe a method of assembling the squeegee according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view from the upper left front, serving to describe a method of assembling the squeegee and the holder according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view from the upper left front, showing a squeegee device according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 33 is a top view showing the squeegee device according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 34 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a holder according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a portion of the holder according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee device according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view from the upper left front, showing a squeegee device according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 40 is a top view showing the squeegee device according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 41 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a holder according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 42 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a portion of the holder according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee device according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 46 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a squeegee device according to another embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As was mentioned above, a squeegee device may comprise a squeegee and a holder, which extends in a left-right direction and which holds the squeegee. The squeegee may have one or more blades, a body on which the blade(s) is (are) mounted, and one or more plates, which (respectively) trap(s) (hold(s), fix(es), sandwich(es), press(es)) the blade(s) against the body.

Owing to the configuration described above, the blade(s) can easily be attached and detached by attaching and detaching the plate(s), respectively.

In one or more embodiments, the blade(s) may include a first blade and a second blade. The plate(s) may include a first plate, which traps the first blade against a front surface of the body, and a second plate, which traps the second blade against a rear surface of the body.

Owing to the configuration described above, the first blade and the second blade can easily be attached and detached.

In one or more embodiments, the body may have one or more protrusions, which protrude(s) from a surface or opposite surfaces that (respectively) face(s) the blade(s). The blade(s) may have one or more blade openings, in which at least a portion or portions of the protrusion(s) is (are respectively) disposed. The plate(s) may have one or more plate recesses, in which at least a portion or portions of the protrusion(s) is (are respectively) disposed.

Owing to the configuration described above, the blade(s) can easily be attached and detached by fitting the blade opening(s) onto the protrusion(s) and by removing the blade opening(s) from the protrusion(s), respectively. Likewise, the plate(s) can easily be attached and detached by fitting the plate recess(es) onto the protrusion(s) and by removing the plate recess(es) from the protrusion(s), respectively.

In one or more embodiments, the protrusion(s) may (each) have a protrusion recess, which is recessed downward from an upper surface of the protrusion, and a large diameter part, which is disposed between the surface facing the blade and the protrusion recess. The large diameter part(s) may be (respectively) disposed in (inserted into) the blade opening(s), and the plate recess(es) may be (respectively) fitted onto the protrusion recess(es) from above the protrusion(s).

Owing to the configuration described above, after mounting the blade(s) on the body, the blade(s) can be (respectively) fastened (fixed) to the body with the plate(s).

In one or more embodiments, in a state in which the protrusion(s) (in particular, the large diameter part thereof) has (have respectively) been disposed in (inserted into) the blade opening(s) and in the plate recess(es), the upper end surface of the body and the upper end surface(s) of the plate(s) may be disposed in the same plane.

Owing to the configuration described above, tilting of the plate(s) is prevented or at least minimized.

In one or more embodiments, in a state in which the protrusion(s) has (have respectively) been disposed in the blade opening(s) and in the plate recess(es), the lower end of the blade(s) may be disposed (may extend) lower than the lower end of the body and the lower end(s) of the plate(s).

Owing to the configuration described above, the blade(s) can effectively push or scrape (capture) the collection liquid on the surface that is being cleaned.

In one or more embodiments, a plurality of protrusions may be provided on the body spaced apart in the left-right direction. A plurality of each of the blade openings and the plate recesses may be provided in the plate(s) spaced apart in the left-right direction so that one protrusion is insertable into each blade opening and plate recess.

Owing to the configuration described above, the blade(s) and the plate(s) can each be stably fastened to the body.

In one or more embodiments, in the left-right direction, the dimension (e.g., length) of the blade opening(s) may be smaller than the dimension (e.g., length) of the plate recess(es).

Owing to the configuration described above, it is easy to fit the plate recess(es) onto the protrusion(s).

In one or more embodiments, in the up-down direction, the dimension (e.g., height) of the blade opening(s) may be greater than the dimension (e.g., height) of the plate recess(es).

Owing to the configuration described above, it is easy to fit the protrusion(s) into the blade opening(s).

In one or more embodiments, the protrusions may protrude from each of the front surface and the rear surface of the body.

Owing to the configuration described above, two blades can be respectively supported on the front surface and the rear surface of the body.

In one or more embodiments, the blade(s) may be made from an elastomeric material, such as a rubber, and the plate(s) may be made from a polymer (synthetic resin) or a metal.

Owing to the configuration described above, the blade(s) can effectively push or scrape (capture) the collection liquid on the surface that is being cleaned, and sufficient strength of the squeegee device can be ensured.

In one or more embodiments, the body may have a suction port.

Owing to the configuration described above, the collection liquid on the surface that is being cleaned can be suctioned through (from) the suction port.

In one or more embodiments, the holder may have a holder recess into which the squeegee is inserted from below.

Owing to the configuration described above, the holder can stably (securely) hold the squeegee.

In one or more embodiments, holder recesses may be disposed at both ends of the holder in a left-right direction.

Owing to the configuration described above, the holder can more stably (securely) hold the squeegee.

In one or more embodiments, the body may have one or more protrusions, which protrude () from a surface or from surfaces that face(s) the blade(s). The blade(s) may (each) have one or more blade openings in which at least a portion or portions of the protrusion(s) is (are respectively) disposed. The plate(s) may (each) have one or more plate recesses in which at least a portion or portions of the protrusion(s) is (are respectively) disposed. The protrusion(s) may (each) have one or more protrusion recess(es), which is (are) recessed downward from an upper surface of the protrusion(s), and a large diameter part which is disposed between the surface(s) facing the blade(s) and the protrusion recess(es). By fitting the plate recess(es) onto the protrusion recess(es) from above the protrusion(s) in a state in which the large diameter part(s) is (are respectively) disposed in the blade opening(s), the blade(s) may be trapped (held, interposed) between the plate(s) and the body.

Owing to the configuration described above, after mounting the blade(s) on the body, the blade(s) can (each) be fastened to the body with the plate(s).

In one or more embodiments, the squeegee device may further comprise a movable member that is movably supported on the holder and has one or more engaging parts, which is (are) configured to engage with one or more engaged parts provided on the body; a first biasing member, which biases the movable member towards a position of engagement of the engaging part(s) with the engaged part(s); and a second biasing member, which biases the squeegee towards a position of separation of the squeegee from the holder. By bringing (moving) the squeegee toward the holder against the biasing force of the second biasing member, the engaging part(s) and the engaged part(s) become engaged such that the squeegee is fastened to the holder.

Owing to the configuration described above, by lifting the squeegee against the biasing force of the second biasing member so as to be brought toward the holder, the engaging part(s) and the engaged part(s) become engaged and remain engaged due to the biasing force of the first biasing member, so as to fixedly mount the squeegee on the holder.

Embodiments according to the present disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. The components of the embodiments described below can be combined as appropriate. In addition, some components may also not be used.

In the embodiments, the positional relationships between the parts are described using the terms “left”, “right”, “front”, “rear”, “upper”, and “lower”. These terms indicate relative positions or directions, with reference to the center of the squeegee device.

First Embodiment

A first embodiment of the present teachings will now be described.

Scrubber Dryer

FIG. 1 is a front view schematically showing a scrubber dryer (floor cleaner) 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view schematically showing the scrubber dryer 1 according to the first embodiment.

The scrubber dryer 1 cleans a surface, e.g., a floor, sidewalk, etc., using a cleaning liquid and brushes 3. A floor surface is exemplified herein as the surface to be cleaned. While cleaning the surface, the scrubber dryer 1 also collects (suctions) the cleaning liquid that had been supplied to the surface to be cleaned. The cleaning liquid collected by the scrubber dryer 1 is a dirty liquid containing dirt, debris, etc. that was on the surface to be cleaned. In the present embodiment, the cleaning liquid collected by the scrubber dryer 1A is referred to as “collection liquid”. Thus, the collection liquid is dirty liquid containing the dirt, debris, etc. that was on the surface (e.g., floor) to be cleaned.

As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the scrubber dryer 1 comprises a base member 2, brushes 3, brush motors 4, a guide member 5, a handle 6, a supply tank 7, a collection tank 8, a power source 9, a suction motor 10, and a squeegee (wiper) device 11.

The base member 2 is a plate-shaped member. The base member 2 supports the brush motors 4, the collection tank 8, and the suction motor 10. The brush motors 4 rotatably support and drive the brushes 3. At least a portion of the squeegee device 11 is disposed rearward of the brushes 3. The squeegee device 11 is mounted on the base member 2.

The brushes 3 contact the surface that is being cleaned. The brushes 3 are disposed lower than the base member 2. Thus, the brushes 3 are disposed at the lower end of the scrubber dryer 1. Each of the brush motors 4 generates a rotational force, which rotates one of the brushes 3. The brush motors 4 are respectively operably coupled to the brushes 3. At least portions of the brush motors 4 are disposed higher than the base member 2. In the present embodiment, two brushes 3 are provided (arranged) in the left-right direction. Correspondingly, two brush motors 4 are provided. The two brushes 3 are respectively connected to the two brush motors 4.

The guide member 5 is a rod-shaped member that is elongated in the up-down direction. The lower end of the guide member 5 is coupled to the base member 2. The lower end of the guide member may be coupled to the base member 2 by way of (via) a swivel joint mechanism (not shown). The swivel joint mechanism enables the guide member 5 to be inclined (tilted) with respect to the base member 2. Therefore, the guide member 5 may be manipulated by a user so as to be inclined at one or more angles relative to the base member 2.

The handle 6 is disposed at the upper end of the guide member 5. The handle 6 is configured to be gripped by the user. The guide member 5 extends downward from the handle 6. The handle 6 is a structural member that is elongated in the left-right direction.

The supply tank 7 stores the cleaning liquid to be supplied to the surface to be cleaned. The supply tank 7 is supported on the guide member 5. The cleaning liquid stored in the supply tank 7 is supplied to the surface to be cleaned via a supply line, which is not shown. In the present embodiment, the cleaning liquid is supplied to the surface to be cleaned by the action of gravity. That is, the cleaning liquid is allowed to fall onto the surface that is being cleaned under its own weight. The surface is cleaned by rotating the brushes 3 in a state in which the cleaning liquid is being or has been supplied to the surface to be cleaned.

The collection tank 8 stores the collection liquid that has been collected (suctioned) from the surface that is being cleaned. The collection tank 8 is supported on the base member 2. The suction motor 10 is driven so that the collection liquid is collected (suctioned) from the surface that is being cleaned. As was explained above, the collection liquid contains the cleaning liquid supplied from the supply tank 7 to the surface that is being cleaned and the dirt, debris, etc. on the surface that is being cleaned. The scrubber dryer 1 comprises a suction port 24 configured to face the surface that is being cleaned. The suction port 24 is provided (defined) in the squeegee device 11. The suction motor 10 is driven so that a suction force is generated at the suction port 24. The suction port 24 suctions the collection liquid present on the surface that is being cleaned. The collection liquid suctioned from (through) the suction port 24 is supplied to the collection tank 8 via a collection line, which is not shown.

The power source 9 includes at least one battery pack. The power source 9 may be a general-purpose battery pack or battery cartridge that can be used as a power source for various types of electrical equipment. For example, the power source 9 can be configured to be used as a power source for power tools. In addition or the alternative, the power source 9 can be configured to be used as a power source for electrical equipment other than power tools. The power source 9 preferably includes at least one lithium-ion battery cell, preferably a plurality of battery cells. Although lithium-ion batteries are currently preferred, other battery chemistries, such as, e.g., solid-state battery cells, may be advantageously utilized with the present teachings. The power source 9 is preferably a rechargeable battery, which can be recharged. The power source 9 may comprise two or more discrete (separate) battery packs, e.g., designed for power tools, which are electrically connected in series or in parallel when mounted on battery-mounting parts (e.g., comprising terminals for connecting to the battery terminals and engagement structures, e.g., rails, for holding the battery pack on the scrubber dryer 1) of the scrubber dryer 1.

The brush motors 4 and the suction motor 10 are each electric motors, preferably brushless motors. The brush motors 4 and the suction motor 10 are each driven by (using) power supplied from the power source 9.

The squeegee device 11 pushes, wipes or scrapes (captures) the collection liquid on the surface that is being cleaned, so that the dirty liquid (collection liquid), or at least a substantial portion thereof, remains underneath the scrubber dryer 1 during a cleaning operation (i.e. as the scrubber dryer 1 is being moved along the surface that is being cleaned), so that the dirty liquid can be effectively suctioned into the collection tank 8. At least a portion of the squeegee device 11 is disposed rearward of the brushes 3. As will be described below, the squeegee device 11 has blades 21 that push, wipe or scrape (capture) the collection liquid so that the collection liquid, or at least a substantial portion thereof, can be effectively suctioned via the suction port 24. Spreading of the collection liquid rearward of the scrubber dryer 1 is limited by the blades 21. The amount of collection liquid that remains on the surface after cleaning is limited or reduced because at least a substantial portion of the collection liquid can be effectively suctioned via the suction port 24.

Squeegee Device

FIG. 3 is a perspective view from the upper left front, showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view from the upper right rear, showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a perspective view from the lower left front, showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a top view showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a bottom view showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a front view showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a rear view showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a left side view showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a right side view showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view from the upper right rear, showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment.

The squeegee device 11 comprises a squeegee 12 and a holder 13, which holds the squeegee 12. The squeegee 12 generally extends in the left-right direction with a curvature, such that the squeegee 12 has a concave shape that faces in the forward direction. The holder 13 also generally extends in the left-right direction with a curvature, preferably the same curvature as the squeegee device 11. The holder 13 is fastened to the base member 2. The squeegee 12 is attached to and detached from the holder 13, as will be further explained below.

Holder

FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing the holder 13 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a portion of the holder 13 according to the first embodiment, and corresponds to an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 14.

The holder 13 comprises a holder body 14, a cover 15, and screws 16. The holder body 14 is elongated generally in the left-right direction with a curvature. The holder body 14 includes: a support part 17, which supports a movable member 30 and a first biasing member 40; a pair of arms 18, which are respectively disposed on the left and the right sides of the support part 17; holder recesses 19, which are respectively provided at the ends of the arms 18; and three casters 20.

In the left-right direction, the support part 17 is disposed in the central part of the holder body 14. The arm 18 on the left side of the support part 17 extends toward the left while curving frontward. The right arm 18 of the support part 17 extends toward the right while also curving frontward.

The holder recesses 19 are respectively disposed at the opposite ends of the holder 13 in the left-right direction. More specifically, the left holder recess 19 is disposed at the left end of the arm 18 on the left side of the support part 17. The right holder recess 19 is disposed at the right end of the arm 18 on the right side of the support part 17. The holder recesses 19 each have an upwardly concave shape. The squeegee 12 is inserted into the holder recesses 19 from below the holder recesses 19.

The casters 20 are disposed at the front of the left end of the arm 18, at the front of the right end of the arm 18, and at the rear of the support part 17. Note that instead the casters 20 may be disposed at the rear of the left end of the arm 18, at the rear of the right end of the arm 18, and at the rear of the support part 17.

The movable member 30 is movably supported in (on) the holder 13. More specifically, the movable member 30 is supported on (in) the support part 17 so as to be movable in the front-rear direction. The movable member 30 includes: a base part 31, a manipulatable part 32, which protrudes upward from the upper surface of the base part 31; a pair of arms 33, which extend from the front end of the base part 31; and engaging parts 34, which are respectively provided at the front ends of the arms 33. The left arm 33 extends toward the left while curving frontward. The right arm 33 extends toward the right while also curving frontward. The engaging parts 34 are respectively provided at the front end of the left arm 33 and at the front end of the right arm 33. Thus, two engaging parts 34 are disposed (arranged) in the left-right direction. The manipulatable part 32 is disposed between the two engaging parts 34 in the left-right direction. Preferably, one manipulatable part 32 is disposed at the central part of the holder 13 in the left-right direction.

The support part 17 has a first accommodating part 17A, in which the base part 31 is disposed, a second accommodating part 17B, in which the arms 33 are accommodated, a rib 17C, within which the first biasing member 40 is disposed, and an opening 17D. The rib 17C is disposed so as to substantially surround the first biasing member 40. A cutout 17E is provided in the front of the rib 17C and exposes the forward end of the first biasing member 40.

The first biasing member 40 preferably is a coil spring. The first biasing member 40 biases the movable member 30 frontward, although other types of elastic spring-like structures can be used instead of a coil spring, such as a leaf spring or an elastomeric material (e.g., an elastomeric block). The rear end of the first biasing member 40 contacts at least a (rearward) portion of the rib 17C. The front end of the first biasing member 40 is exposed via the cutout 17E and contacts at least a portion of the movable member 30.

The cover 15 has a first cover part 15A covering the first accommodating part 17A, a second cover part 15B covering the second accommodating part 17B, a guide opening 15C provided in the first cover part 15A, which guides the manipulatable part 32 in the front-rear direction, and an opening 15D. At least a portion of the manipulatable part 32 is disposed inside the guide opening 15C. The upper end of the manipulatable part 32 protrudes upward from (through) the guide opening 15C. The manipulatable part 32 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the holder 13 (the upper surface of the cover 15). Note that instead the manipulatable part 32 may protrude leftward from the left surface of the holder 13 or may protrude rightward from the right surface of the holder 13. The manipulatable part 32 may protrude from the holder 13 to one or both of the left side and the right side.

Three screws 16 are provided. The three screws 16 fasten the support part 17 and the cover 15. In a state in which the support part 17 and the cover 15 have been fastened, the opening 17D and the opening 15D are aligned. The screws 16 are inserted from below into screw openings 17F provided in the support part 17 and then inserted into screw holes in screw bosses 15F provided in the cover 15.

Squeegee

FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing the squeegee 12 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view from the upper right rear, showing the squeegee 12 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 18 is a perspective view from the upper left front, showing a portion of the squeegee 12 according to the first embodiment, and corresponds to an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 12. FIG. 19 is a perspective view from the upper right rear, showing a portion of the squeegee 12 according to the first embodiment, and corresponds to an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 13. FIG. 20 is a left side view showing the squeegee 12 according to the first embodiment.

At least a portion of the squeegee 12 is disposed (extends) lower than the holder 13. The squeegee 12 has blades 21, a body 22 on which the blades 21 are mounted, and plates 23, which trap (hold, sandwich, press, fix) the blades 21 against the body 22. That is, the blades 21 are respectively interleaved or interposed between, and thus held by, the body 22 and the plates 23.

The body 22 extends generally in the left-right direction with a curvature. The body 22 is preferably made from a polymer (synthetic resin). However, the body 22 may instead be made from metal, e.g., aluminum, an aluminum alloy or a similar lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal. The body 22 has a suction port 24. In the left-right direction, the suction port 24 is provided in (defined through) the central part of the body 22. The suction port 24 is provided on the lower surface of the body 22 so as to face the surface that is being cleaned. A pipe 25 extends upward from the upper part of the central part of the body 22. The suction port 24 communicates with a suction flow path within the pipe 25. Thus, the suction port 24 is fluidly connected to the collection tank 8 via the suction flow path defined by the pipe 25.

The blades 21 are configured to contact the surface that is being cleaned. The blades 21 push, wipe or scrape (capture) the collection liquid on the surface that is being cleaned. The blades 21 are preferably made from a rubber (saturated or unsaturated), although other types of elastomeric materials, such as polyurethane, may be used to form the blades 21. Two blades 21 are preferably provided. In this case, the blades 21 include a first blade 21A facing the front surface of the body 22 and a second blade 21B facing the rear surface of the body 22.

The body 22 has a plurality of rods 28, which protrude upward. The upper ends of the rods 28 are disposed higher than the upper end (surface) of the body 22. The rods 28 are respectively disposed on the left and the right sides of the pipe 25. Second biasing members 50 are respectively supported on the rods 28. The arms 18 of the holder 13 are provided with openings 18A (see e.g., FIG. 13), into which the upper ends of the rods 28 are respectively inserted.

The body 22 has engaged parts 29, in (with) which the engaging parts 34 of the movable member 30 respectively engage. The same number of engaged parts 29 and engaging parts 34 are provided. The engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 are provided (arranged) in the left-right direction. Preferably, two of each of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 are provided in the left-right direction. The engaged parts 29 are respectively disposed on both the left and the right sides of the pipe 25. The engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 are each disposed on the both sides, in the left-right direction, of the pipe 25 that has (defines) a portion of the suction flow path. The engaged parts 29 are disposed higher than the upper surface of the body 22. In the left-right direction, the left-side engaged part 29 is disposed between the left-side rod 28 and the pipe 25. In the left-right direction, the right-side engaged part 29 is disposed between the right-side rod 28 and the pipe 25.

The engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 each have (complementary, matching) hook shapes that are hooked on (fitted, mated with) each other. Alternately stated, the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 have corresponding shapes (e.g., L-shapes) that are configured to form-fit or interference fit with each other. By hooking (engaging, mating) the engaging parts 34 of the movable member 30 on (with) the engaged parts 29 provided on the body 22, the squeegee 12 is securely mounted on (held by) the holder 13 in a detachable manner. The first biasing member 40 biases the movable member 30 in a direction (here, frontward) that causes the engaging parts 34 to engage (mate) with the engaged parts 29.

The body 22 has a plurality of protrusions 26 protruding from the surfaces that respectively face the blades 21. That is, the protrusions 26 protrude from each of the front surface and the rear surface of the body 22. More specifically, some of the protrusions 26 protrude frontward from the front surface of the body 22 and some of the protrusions 26 protrude rearward from the rear surface of the body 22. The protrusions 26 are provided (arranged) spaced apart in the left-right direction. In the left-right direction, the central part of the body 22 is provided with a central protrusion 27, the shape of which is different from that of the protrusions 26. Note that the shape of the central protrusion 27 may be the same as the shape of the protrusions 26.

The plates 23 respectively trap (hold, fix, sandwich) the blades 21 against the body 22. Thereby, the blades 21 are fastened to the body 22 by the plates 23. The plates 23 are made from a polymer (synthetic resin), preferably a relatively stiff polymer. Note that the plates 23 may instead be made from a metal, e.g., aluminum, an aluminum alloy or a similar lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal. Two plates 23 are preferably provided. In this case, the plates 23 includes a first plate 23A, which traps (holds, fixes, sandwiches) the first blade 21A against the front surface of the body 22 and a second plate 23B, which traps (holds, fixes, sandwiches) the second blade 21B against the rear surface of the body 22.

The blades 21 each have blade openings 211, in which at least portions of the protrusions 26 are respectively disposed (inserted), and a blade central opening 212, in which at least a portion of the central protrusion 27 is disposed (inserted).

The plates 23 each have plate recesses 231, in which at least portions of the protrusions 26 are respectively disposed (inserted), and a plate central recess 232 in which at least a portion of the central protrusion 27 is disposed (inserted).

Mechanism for Attaching and Detaching the Holder and the Squeegee

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment, and corresponds to a cross-sectional view in the direction of the arrows at the line A-A in FIG. 3. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment, and corresponds to a cross-sectional view in the direction of the arrows at the line B-B in FIG. 3. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment, and corresponds to a cross-sectional view in the direction of the arrows at the line C-C in FIG. 3.

As shown in FIG. 21, the movable member 30 has an accommodating recess 35, which is upwardly concave from the lower side of the movable member 30. As was noted above, the first biasing member 40 preferably is or comprises a coil spring. The first biasing member 40 is accommodated within the rib 17C. The rib 17C is disposed inside the accommodating recess 35. The rear end of the first biasing member 40 contacts a portion of the rib 17C, which is disposed rearward of the first biasing member 40. The front end of the first biasing member 40 is exposed through (via) a cutout 17E, which is provided at the front end of the rib 17C. The front end of the first biasing member 40 contacts a portion of the inner surface 36 of the accommodating recess 35, which is disposed frontward of the first biasing member 40, via the cutout 17E. The first biasing member 40 biases the movable member 30 frontward. More specifically, the first biasing member 40 biases the movable member 30 frontward so that the engaging parts 34 engage with the engaged parts 29.

The manipulatable part 32 is disposed rearward of the engaged parts 29. The first biasing member 40 biases the movable member 30 frontward. The engagement of the engaged parts 29 with the engaging parts 34 is released by the user manipulating (manually moving) the manipulatable part 32 rearward.

The second biasing members 50 bias the squeegee 12 in a direction (i.e. downward) that causes the squeegee 12 to separate from the holder 13. At least a portion of the squeegee 12 is disposed (extends) lower than the holder 13. A plurality of the second biasing members 50 are disposed (arranged) in left-right direction. In the present embodiment, two second biasing members 50 are disposed in the left-right direction. The second biasing members 50 preferably are or comprise coil springs.

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment, showing the state in which the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 are engaged. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment, showing the state in which the engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 is released; i.e. the state in which the engaging parts 34 are disengaged from the engaged parts 29.

When the user manipulates (manually moves) the manipulatable part 32 rearward, the engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 is released. On the other hand, when the user stops the manipulation of the manipulatable part 32 (i.e. the user releases the manipulatable part 32), the movable member 30 moves frontward due to biasing force of the first biasing member 40, whereby the engaging parts 34 engage with the engaged parts 29. The engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 each have, e.g., hook shapes that are hooked on (with) each other. The engaging parts 34 engage the engaged parts 29 after being inserted into the space under the engaged parts 29.

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment, and corresponds to an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 23. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the squeegee device 11 according to the first embodiment, showing the state in which the squeegee 12 has been separated from the holder 13.

The second biasing members 50 are respectively supported on the rods 28 of the body 22. Each rod 28 has a small diameter part 28A onto which one second biasing member 50 is fitted and a large diameter part 28B disposed lower than the small diameter part 28A. The lower end of the second biasing member 50 contacts a support surface (step, shoulder) 28C at the boundary between the lower end of the small diameter part 28A and the upper end of the large diameter part 28B. The upper end of the second biasing member 50 contacts the lower surface of the arm 18 of the holder 13. Note that the second biasing member 50 may instead be supported by the holder 13.

As shown in FIG. 27, to remove the squeegee 12 from the holder 13, the manipulatable part 32 is manipulated (moved) rearward against the biasing force of the first biasing member 40, whereby the engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 is released, such that the squeegee 12 separates (moves away) from the holder 13 due to the biasing force of the second biasing member 50.

When the squeegee 12 is to be mounted on (attached to) the holder 13, the squeegee 12 is brought (moved) toward to the holder 13 from below against the biasing force of the second biasing member 50, whereby the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 become engaged due to the biasing force of the first biasing member 40. As a result, the squeegee 12 is fixed (attached, fastened) to the holder 13.

Blade Fastening Mechanism

FIG. 28 is a perspective view from the upper left front, showing the squeegee 12 according to the first embodiment, and corresponds to an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 12. FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee 12 according to the first embodiment, and corresponds to a cross-sectional view in the direction of the arrows at the line D-D in FIG. 12. FIG. 30 is a perspective view from the upper left front, serving to describe a method of assembling the squeegee 12 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 31 is a perspective view from the upper left front, serving to describe the method of assembling the squeegee 12 and the holder 13 according to the first embodiment.

The blade openings 211 and the plate recesses 231 are disposed (arranged) spaced apart in left-right direction so that one protrusion 26 is disposed (provided) in each blade opening 211 and plate recess 231. In the left-right direction, the dimension of the blade openings 211 is smaller than the dimension of the plate recesses 231. In the up-down direction, the dimension of the blade openings 211 is greater than the dimension of the plate recesses 231.

The protrusions 26 each have a protrusion recess 26A, which is recessed downward from the upper surface of the protrusion 26, and a large diameter part 26B disposed between the surface (front surface or rear surface) of the body 22 that faces the respective blade 21 and the protrusion recess 26A. The central protrusion 27 has recesses 27A respectively provided on the left and the right sides of the central protrusion 27.

The large diameter parts 26B are respectively disposed in the blade openings 211. The plate recesses 231 are fitted onto the protrusion recesses 26A from above the protrusions 26. In a state in which the large diameter parts 26B have been respectively inserted into the blade openings 211, the plate recesses 231 are then fitted (moved) onto the protrusion recesses 26A from above the protrusions 26, whereby the blades 21 are trapped (held, sandwiched, interposed, interleaved) between the body 22 and the plates 23.

In the present embodiment, in a state in which the protrusions 26 have been disposed in the blade openings 211 and in the plate recesses 231, the upper end surface of the body 22 and the upper end surfaces of the plate 23 are disposed in the same plane. In a state in which the protrusions 26 have been disposed in the blade openings 211 and in the plate recesses 231, the lower ends of the blades 21 are disposed (extend) lower than the lower end of the body 22 and the lower ends of the plates 23.

Effects

As described above, in the present embodiment, the squeegee device 11 comprises the squeegee 12 and the holder 13 that extends in the left-right direction and holds the squeegee 12. The squeegee 12 has the (two) blades 21, the body 22 on which the blades 21 are mounted, and the (two) plates 23, which respectively trap (hold, fix) the blades 21 against the body 22.

Owing to the configuration described above, the blades 21 can easily be attached and detached by attaching and detaching the plates 23, respectively.

In the present embodiment, the blades 21 include a first blade 21A and a second blade 21B. The plates 23 include a first plate 23A, which traps the first blade 21A against the front surface of the body 22 and a second plate 23B, which traps the second blade 21B against the rear surface of the body 22.

Owing to the configuration described above, the first blade 21A and the second blade 21B can easily be attached and detached.

In the present embodiment, the body 22 has protrusions 26, which protrude from opposite (e.g., front and rear) surfaces of the body 22 that respectively face the blades 21. The blades 21 each have blade openings 211, in which at least portions of the protrusions 26 are respectively disposed. The plates 23 each have plate recesses 231, in which at least portions of the protrusions 26 are respectively disposed.

Owing to the configuration described above, the blades 21 can easily be attached and detached by fitting the blade openings 211 onto the protrusions 26 and by removing the blade openings 211 from the protrusions 26, respectively. Likewise, the plates 23 can easily be attached and detached by fitting the plate recesses 231 onto the protrusions 26 and by removing the plate recesses 231 from the protrusions 26, respectively.

In the present embodiment, each of the protrusions 26 has a protrusion recess 26A, which is recessed downward from the upper surface of the protrusion 26, and a large diameter part 26B, which is disposed between the surface that faces the respective blade 21 and the protrusion recess 26A. The large diameter parts 26B are respectively disposed in the blade openings 211, and the plate recesses 231 are respectively fitted onto the protrusion recesses 26A from above the protrusions 26.

Owing to the configuration described above, after mounting the blades 21 on the body 22, the blades 21 can be fastened to the body 22 with the plates 23.

In the present embodiment, in a state in which the protrusions 26 have been disposed in the blade openings 211 and in the plate recesses 231, the upper end surface of the body 22 and the upper end surfaces of the plates 23 are disposed in the same (horizontal) plane, i.e. in a plane that extends in the left-right and front-rear directions.

Owing to the configuration described above, tilting of the plates 23 can be prevented or at least minimized.

In the present embodiment, in a state in which the protrusions 26 have been respectively disposed in the blade openings 211 and in the plate recesses 231, the lower ends of the blades 21 are disposed (extend) lower than the lower end of the body 22 and the lower ends of the plates 23 in the up-down direction.

Owing to the configuration described above, the blades 21 can effectively push, wipe or scrape (capture) the collection liquid on the surface that is being cleaned.

In the present embodiment, a plurality of protrusions 26 are provided spaced apart in the left-right direction. A plurality of each of the blade openings 211 and the plate recesses 231 are disposed spaced apart in the left-right direction so that one protrusion 26 is disposed in each blade opening 211 and plate recess 231.

Owing to the configuration described above, the blades 21 and the plates 23 can each be stably (securely) fastened to the body 22.

In the present embodiment, in the left-right direction, the dimension (e.g., length) of the blade openings 211 is smaller than the dimension (e.g., length) of the plate recesses 231.

Owing to the configuration described above, it is easy to fit the plate recesses 231 onto the protrusions 26.

In the present embodiment, in the up-down direction, the dimension (e.g., height) of the blade openings 211 is greater than the dimension (e.g., height) of the plate recesses 231.

Owing to the configuration described above, it is easy to fit the protrusions 26 into the blade openings 211.

In the present embodiment, the protrusions 26 protrude from each of the front surface and the rear surface of the body 22.

Owing to the configuration described above, two blades 21 can be respectively supported on the front surface and the rear surface of the body 22.

In the present embodiment, the blade 21 is made from an elastomeric material, such as a rubber, and the plate 23 is made from a polymer (synthetic resin) or a metal.

Owing to the configuration described above, the collection liquid on the surface to be cleaned can be effectively pushed, wiped or scraped (captured) by the blades 21 during a cleaning operation, and sufficient strength of the squeegee device 11 can be ensured.

In the present embodiment, the body 22 has a suction port 24.

Owing to the configuration described above, the collection liquid on the surface that is being cleaned is suctioned from (through) the suction port 24.

In the present embodiment, the holder 13 has the holder recesses 19 into which the squeegee 12 is inserted from below.

Owing to the configuration described above, the holder 13 can stably (securely) hold the squeegee 12.

In the present embodiment, the holder recesses 19 are disposed at both ends of the holder 13 in the left-right direction.

Owing to the configuration described above, the holder 13 can more stably (securely) hold the squeegee 12.

In the present embodiment, the body 22 has the protrusions 26, which protrude from opposite surfaces that respectively face the blades 21. The blades 21 each have the blade openings 211 in which at least portions of the protrusions 26 are respectively disposed. The plates 23 each have plate recesses 231, in which at least portions of the protrusions 26 are respectively disposed. The protrusions 26 each have a protrusion recess 26A, which is recessed downward from the upper surface of the protrusion 26, and a large diameter part 26B, which is disposed between the facing surface and the protrusion recess 26A. In a state in which the large diameter parts 26B are respectively disposed in (inserted into) the blade openings 211, the plate recesses 231 are then fitted onto the protrusion recesses 26A from above the protrusions 26, whereby the blades 21 are trapped (fixed, secured, sandwiched, held) between the body 22 and the plates 23.

Owing to the configuration described above, after mounting the blades 21 on the body 22, the blades 21 can be fastened to the body 22 with the plates 23.

In the present embodiment, the squeegee device 11 comprises the movable member 30, which is movably supported on the holder 13 and has the engaging parts 34, which respectively engage with the engaged parts 29 provided on the body 22; the first biasing member 40, which biases the movable member 30 so as to engage the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29; and the second biasing members 50, which bias the squeegee 12 so that the squeegee 12 and the holder 13 separate. By bringing (moving) the squeegee 12 toward the holder 13 against the biasing force of the second biasing member 50, the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 become and then remain engaged, such that the squeegee 12 is fastened to the holder 13.

Owing to the configuration described above, by lifting the squeegee 12 against the biasing force of the second biasing member 50 so as to be brought toward the holder 13, the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 become engaged and then remain engaged due to the biasing force of the first biasing member 40, such that the squeegee 12 is mounted on the holder 13.

In the present embodiment, the squeegee device 11 comprises: the squeegee 12, which includes the blades 21 and the body 22 on which the blades 21 are mounted; the holder 13, which extends in the left-right direction and holds the squeegee 12; and the movable member 30, which is movably supported on the holder 13. The movable member 30 has the manipulatable part 32 and the engaging parts 34, which respectively engage with the engaged parts 29 provided on the body 22. One manipulatable part 32 is disposed at (in) the central part of the holder 13 in the left-right direction.

Owing to the configuration described above, the engaging parts 34 of the movable member 30 and the engaged parts 29 of the body 22 become engaged, or the engagement thereof is released, by manipulating (manually moving) the manipulatable part 32 of the movable member 30, which is supported by the holder 13. Thus, the user of the squeegee device 11 can easily attach the squeegee 12 to the holder 13 and detach the squeegee 12 from the holder 13 simply by manipulating the manipulatable part 32. The user can easily remove the squeegee 12 from the holder 13, so that maintenance can be performed more easily or conveniently on the squeegee 12 that has been removed from the holder 13. The user can, for example, replace the blades 21 or clean the squeegee 12. The user can easily mount the squeegee 12 on the holder 13, so that the squeegee 12 can be attached and detached in a user-friendly manner.

In the present embodiment, the squeegee device 11 comprises the first biasing member 40 that biases the movable member 30 so as to engage the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29.

Owing to the configuration described above, the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 become engaged and are held in the engaged state due to the biasing force of the first biasing member 40, such that the squeegee 12 is securely mounted on the holder 13. The user need only manipulate the manipulatable part 32 to remove the squeegee 12 from the holder 13.

In the present embodiment, the manipulatable part 32 is disposed rearward of the engaged parts 29. The first biasing member 40 biases the movable member 30 frontward. By manipulating (moving) the manipulatable part 32 rearward, the engagement of the engaged parts 29 and the engaging parts 34 is released.

Owing to the configuration described above, the user can release the engagement of the engaged parts 29 and the engaging parts 34 simply by manipulating the manipulatable part 32 rearward, from the rear of the squeegee device 11.

In the present embodiment, the first biasing member 40 includes a coil spring. The movable member 30 has the accommodating recess 35, which is upwardly concave from the lower surface of the movable member 30. The holder 13 has the rib 17C disposed inside the accommodating recess 35. The rear end of the first biasing member 40 contacts the rib 17C. The front end of the first biasing member 40 contacts the inner surface 36 of the accommodating recess 35.

Owing to the configuration described above, the first biasing member 40, which is a coil spring, can effectively bias the movable member 30 frontward.

In the present embodiment, the squeegee device 11 comprises the second biasing members 50, which bias the squeegee 12 in a direction that causes the squeegee 12 and the holder 13 to separate.

Owing to the configuration described above, after releasing the engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29, the squeegee 12 is easily (and automatically) separated from the holder 13 due to the biasing force of the second biasing members 50.

In the present embodiment, at least a portion of the squeegee 12 is disposed (extends) lower than the holder 13. The second biasing members 50 bias the squeegee 12 downward.

Owing to the configuration described above, after releasing the engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29, the squeegee 12 can be easily separated downward from the holder 13 due to the biasing force of the second biasing members 50.

In the present embodiment, a plurality of second biasing members 50 are disposed (arranged) in the left-right direction.

Owing to the configuration described above, after releasing the engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29, the squeegee 12 can be smoothly separated from the holder 13 due to the biasing force of the plurality of second biasing members 50.

In the present embodiment, the second biasing members 50 include coil springs. The squeegee 12 has the rods 28, which each have the small diameter part 28A onto which the second biasing members 50 are respectively fitted, and the large diameter part 28B disposed lower than the small diameter part 28A. The lower end of the second biasing member 50 contacts the support surface 28C at the boundary between the lower end of the small diameter part 28A and the upper end of the large diameter part 28B. The upper ends of the second biasing members 50 contact the holder 13.

Owing to the configuration described above, the second biasing members 50, which are coil springs, can effectively bias the squeegee 12 downward.

In the present embodiment, the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 each have hook shapes that are hooked on each other.

Owing to the configuration described above, because the engaging parts 34 each have a hook shape and the engaged parts 29 also each have a hook shape, the squeegee 12 is securely mounted on the holder 13 by hooking the engaging parts 34 on (in) the engaged parts 29.

In the present embodiment, a plurality of each of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 are provided in the left-right direction.

Owing to the configuration described above, the squeegee 12 is stably (securely) mounted on the holder 13 by the plurality of engaging parts 34 and the plurality of engaged parts 29.

In the present embodiment, the squeegee 12 has the pipe 25 that defines a suction flow path. The engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 are respectively disposed on opposite sides, in the left-right direction, of the suction flow path.

Owing to the configuration described above, the squeegee 12 is stably (securely) mounted on the holder 13 by the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29, which are disposed on both sides of the suction flow path.

In the present embodiment, the manipulatable part 32 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the holder 13.

Owing to the configuration described above, the user can easily manipulate the manipulatable part 32.

In the present embodiment, the holder 13 has a guide opening 15C, which guides the manipulatable part 32 in the front-rear direction.

Owing to the configuration described above, the manipulatable part 32 can stably move in the front-rear direction while being guided by the guide opening.

In the present embodiment, two engaging parts 34 are disposed in the left-right direction. The manipulatable part 32 is disposed between the two engaging parts 34 in the left-right direction.

Owing to the configuration described above, the user can smoothly move the two engaging parts 34 at the same time, simply by manipulating the one manipulatable part 32.

In the present embodiment, the squeegee device 11 comprises the first biasing member 40, which biases the movable member 30 so as to engage the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29, and the second biasing members 50, which bias the squeegee 12 so that the squeegee 12 and the holder 13 separate. By bringing the squeegee 12 toward the holder 13 against the biasing force of the second biasing member 50, the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 are engaged, such that the squeegee 12 is fastened to the holder 13.

Owing to the configuration described above, by lifting the squeegee 12 against the biasing force of the second biasing member 50 so as to be brought toward the holder 13, the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 are engaged due to the biasing force of the first biasing member 40, such that the squeegee 12 is mounted on the holder 13.

In the present embodiment, the squeegee device 11 comprises the first biasing member 40, which biases the movable member 30 so as to engage the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29, and the second biasing members 50, which bias the squeegee 12 so that the squeegee 12 and the holder 13 separate. By manipulating the manipulatable part 32 against the biasing force of the first biasing member 40, the engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 is released, such that the squeegee 12 separates from the holder 13.

Owing to the configuration described above, after the engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 is released by the manipulation of the manipulatable part 32 against the biasing force of the first biasing member 40, the squeegee 12 is separated from the holder 13 due to the biasing force of the second biasing members 50.

Second Embodiment

A second embodiment of the present teachings will now be described. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view from the upper left front, showing a squeegee device 2011 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 33 is a top view showing the squeegee device 2011 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 34 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a holder 2013 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a portion of the holder 2013 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 34. FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee device 2011 according to the second embodiment and corresponds to a cross-sectional view in the direction of the arrows at the line E-E in FIG. 32. FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device 2011 according to the second embodiment, showing the state in which the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 are engaged. FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device 2011 according to the second embodiment, showing the state in which the engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 is released.

A support part 2017 movably supports a movable member 2030. The movable member 2030 is movable in the front-rear direction. The first biasing member 40 biases the movable member 2030 frontward.

In the present embodiment, by turning a lever part 2032, which is another embodiment of a manipulatable part according to the present teachings, the movable member 2030 moves in the front-rear direction. The lever part 2032 is rotatably supported in a guide opening 2015C provided in a cover 2015. A cam 37 is fastened to the lower end of the lever part 2032. The cam 37 is accommodated in a cam accommodating part 2030A of the movable member 2030. The cam 37 can contact an abutment part 17G of the support part 2017, which is disposed in front of the cam accommodating part 2030A.

As shown in FIG. 37, when the movable member 2030 moves frontward due to the biasing force of the first biasing member 40, the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 engage. As shown in FIG. 38, when the lever part 2032 is turned, the cam 37 turns while contacting the abutment part 17G and the inner surface of the cam accommodating part 2030A, such that the movable member 2030 moves rearward. The engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 is released when the movable member 2030 moves rearward.

Third Embodiment

A third embodiment of the present teachings will now be described. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view from the upper left front, showing a squeegee device 3011 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 40 is a top view showing the squeegee device 3011 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 41 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a holder 3013 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 42 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing a portion of the holder 3013 according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 41. FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view showing the squeegee device 3011 according to the third embodiment and corresponds to a cross-sectional view in the direction of the arrows at the line F-F in FIG. 39. FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device 3011 according to the third embodiment, showing the state in which the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 are engaged. FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the squeegee device 3011 according to the third embodiment, showing the state in which the engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 is released.

A support part 3017 movably supports a movable member 3030. The movable member 3030 is movable in the front-rear direction. The first biasing member 40 biases the movable member 3030 frontward.

In the present embodiment, by downwardly pressing a button part 3032, which is another embodiment of a manipulatable part according to the present teachings, the movable member 3030 moves in the front-rear direction. The button part 3032 is movably supported in the up-down direction in a guide opening 3015C provided in a cover 3015. An inclined surface 3032A is provided at the lower end of the button part 3032. An inclined surface 3030A is provided on a portion of the movable member 3030 that faces the inclined surface 3032A. The inclined surface 3032A contacts the inclined surface 3030A. The inclined surface 3032A faces downward and is inclined upward toward the rear. The inclined surface 3030A faces upward and is inclined downward toward the front.

As shown in FIG. 44, when the movable member 3030 moves frontward due to the biasing force of the first biasing member 40, the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 engage. As shown in FIG. 45, when the button part 3032 is pressed downward, the inclined surface 3032A pushes the inclined surface 3030A downward and rearward. When the inclined surface 3030A is pressed by the button part 3032, the movable member 3030 moves rearward. The engagement of the engaging parts 34 and the engaged parts 29 is released when the movable member 3030 moves rearward.

Other Embodiments

FIG. 46 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left front, showing the squeegee device 4011 according to another embodiment. In the embodiments described above, the pipe 25 was provided in the squeegee 12. As shown in FIG. 46, the pipe 25 may be provided in a holder 4013. The suction flow path of the pipe 25 provided in the holder 4013 is fluidly connected to the suction port 24 via a suction flow path 24R provided in the squeegee 12.

In the embodiments described above, the blades 21 are entirely composed of an elastomeric material, such as a rubber. In the alternative, the blades may have a metal (e.g., aluminum or aluminum alloy) core or portion, which e.g., has an elastomeric lip that is removably attached to the metal core portion. The elastomeric lip is configured to contact the surface to be cleaned. In such an embodiment, replacement costs can be reduced because a smaller portion of elastic material is replaced while the metal core or portion is reusable. Furthermore, the main portion (i.e. the metal core or portion) of the blade 21 can be made to be stiffer than an elastomeric material while the lip, which contacts the surface to be cleaned, is sufficiently flexible to continuously contact the surface to be cleaned during a cleaning operation.

Representative, non-limiting examples of the present invention were described above in detail with reference to the attached drawings. This detailed description is merely intended to teach a person of skill in the art further details for practicing preferred aspects of the present teachings and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, each of the additional features and teachings disclosed above may be utilized separately or in conjunction with other features and teachings to provide improved squeegee devices, floor cleanings comprising such squeegee devices, and methods of making and using the same.

Moreover, combinations of features and steps disclosed in the above detailed description may not be necessary to practice the invention in the broadest sense, and are instead taught merely to particularly describe representative examples of the invention. Furthermore, various features of the above-described representative examples, as well as the various independent and dependent claims below, may be combined in ways that are not specifically and explicitly enumerated in order to provide additional useful embodiments of the present teachings.

All features disclosed in the description and/or the claims are intended to be disclosed separately and independently from each other for the purpose of original written disclosure, as well as for the purpose of restricting the claimed subject matter, independent of the compositions of the features in the embodiments and/or the claims. In addition, all value ranges or indications of groups of entities are intended to disclose every possible intermediate value or intermediate entity for the purpose of original written disclosure, as well as for the purpose of restricting the claimed subject matter.

EXPLANATION OF THE REFERENCE NUMERALS

• • 1: scrubber dryer
  • 2: base member
  • 3: brush
  • 4: brush motor
  • 5: guide member
  • 6: handle
  • 7: supply tank
  • 8: collection tank
  • 9: power source
  • 10: suction motor
  • 11: squeegee device
  • 12: squeegee
  • 13: holder
  • 14: holder body
  • 15: cover
  • 15A: first cover part
  • 15B: second cover part
  • 15C: guide opening
  • 15D: opening
  • 15F: screw boss
  • 16: screw
  • 17: support part
  • 17A: first accommodating part
  • 17B: second accommodating part
  • 17C: rib
  • 17D: opening
  • 17E: cutout
  • 17F: screw opening
  • 17G: abutment part
  • 18: arm
  • 18A: opening
  • 19: holder recess
  • 20: caster
  • 21: blade
  • 21A: first blade
  • 21B: second blade
  • 22: body
  • 23: plate
  • 23A: first plate
  • 23B: second plate
  • 24: suction port
  • 24R: suction flow path
  • 25: pipe
  • 26: protrusion
  • 26A: protrusion recess
  • 26B: large diameter part
  • 27: central protrusion
  • 27A: recess
  • 28: rod
  • 28A: small diameter part
  • 28B: large diameter part
  • 28C: support surface
  • 29: engaged part
  • 30: movable member
  • 31: base part
  • 32: manipulatable part
  • 33: arm
  • 34: engaging part
  • 35: accommodating recess
  • 36: inner surface
  • 37: cam
  • 40: first biasing member
  • 50: second biasing member
  • 211: blade opening
  • 212: blade central opening
  • 231: plate recess
  • 232: plate central recess
  • 2011: squeegee device
  • 2013: holder
  • 2015: cover
  • 2015C: guide opening
  • 2017: support part
  • 2030: movable member
  • 2030A: cam accommodating part
  • 2032: lever part
  • 3011: squeegee device
  • 3013: holder
  • 3015: cover
  • 3015C: guide opening
  • 3017: support part
  • 3030: movable member
  • 3030A: inclined surface
  • 3032: button part
  • 3032A: inclined surface
  • 4011: squeegee device
  • 4013: holder