SELF ADJUSTING DEPTH STAIN EXTRACTION TOOL

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/699,923, filed on Sep. 27, 2024, entitled “SELF ADJUSTING DEPTH STAIN EXTRACTION TOOL,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

The subject disclosure pertains to an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance that distributes cleaning solution into a surface being cleaned.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Cleaning appliances that distribute cleaning solution onto a surface to be cleaned often require depositing large amounts of cleaning solution directly on the surface. For surfaces that need deep cleaning, such as a carpet, the cleaning solution generally needs to be of sufficient quantity to soak the carpet in order to extract particulates from deep within the carpet. Such quantities of cleaning solution often render the carpet damp and unusable for significant periods of time.

BRIEF SUMMARY

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance includes a housing having a top surface and a bottom surface. A suction nozzle defines a suction nozzle inlet proximate the bottom surface. A fluid delivery circuit is associated with the housing for distributing a cleaning solution to a surface to be cleaned. A fluid recovery circuit includes the suction nozzle for extracting the cleaning solution from the surface. An applicator apparatus is elastically coupled to the housing with at least one spring member and moveable relative to the suction nozzle inlet based on an elastic deformation of the at least one spring member. The applicator apparatus includes an applicator body defining a distribution manifold in fluid communication with the fluid delivery circuit. The applicator body supports a plurality of needle applicators that each define a fluid delivery aperture for receiving the cleaning solution from the distribution manifold and distributing the cleaning solution onto the surface to be cleaned.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance includes a housing having a top surface and a bottom surface. A suction nozzle defines a suction nozzle inlet proximate the bottom surface. A fluid delivery circuit is associated with the housing for distributing a cleaning solution to a surface to be cleaned. A fluid recovery circuit includes the suction nozzle associated with the housing for extracting the cleaning solution from the surface. An applicator apparatus is in fluid communication with the fluid delivery circuit. The applicator apparatus supports a plurality of needle applicators that each include a sidewall extending between an upper end and a lower end defining needle bodies. Each sidewall defines a fluid delivery aperture proximate the lower end that is oriented along a distribution angle that extends at least partially towards the upper end for receiving and distributing the cleaning solution from the fluid delivery circuit onto the surface to be cleaned and at least partially towards the suction nozzle inlet.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance includes a housing having a top surface and a bottom surface. A suction nozzle defines a suction nozzle inlet proximate the bottom surface. A fluid delivery circuit is associated with the housing for distributing a cleaning solution to a surface to be cleaned. A fluid recovery circuit includes the suction nozzle for extracting the cleaning solution from the surface. An applicator apparatus is at least partially within the suction nozzle inlet and elastically coupled to the housing with at least one spring member and is moveable with respect to the suction inlet based on an elastic deformation of the at least spring member. The applicator apparatus includes an applicator body supporting a plurality of needle applicators that each define a fluid delivery aperture for receiving the cleaning solution from the fluid delivery circuit and distributing the cleaning solution onto the surface to be cleaned.

The above summary is not intended to represent every possible construction or aspect of the subject disclosure. Rather, the foregoing summary is intended to exemplify some of the novel aspects and features disclosed herein. The above-summarized features and other features and advantages of the subject disclosure will be readily apparent from the following detailed description of representative embodiments and modes for carrying out the subject disclosure when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional side view of an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional side view of a needle applicator for an attachment tool, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a disassembled bottom perspective view of an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a cleaning appliance with an attachment tool, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of an attachment tool of a second construction for a cleaning appliance, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side view of an attachment tool of a second construction for a cleaning appliance, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a disassembled bottom perspective view of an attachment tool of a second construction for a cleaning appliance, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a cleaning appliance of a first construction with an attachment tool, according to an aspect of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a cleaning appliance of a second construction with an attachment tool, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present illustrated aspects reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance that distributes cleaning solution into a surface being cleaned. The attachment tool may be configured to distribute cleaning solution through one or more needle applicators that are elastically coupled to a housing of the attachment tool for inserting into a cleaning surface, such as a carpet. The elastic adjustability of the needle applicators maintains a proximate distance from a suction nozzle inlet in order to limit the amount of time the cleaning solution is recovered from the surface. In addition, the needle applicators may have a fluid delivery aperture that is at least partially oriented toward the suction nozzle inlet. As a result, the surface can be quickly dried during the cleaning process. The attachment tool may be used on any type of cleaning surface or object, such as any surface that it is generally beneficial to deep clean.

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. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

For purposes of 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 stated otherwise, the term “front” shall refer to the surface of the element closer to an intended viewer, and the term “rear” shall refer to the surface of the element further from the intended viewer. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, 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 “including,” “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. An element preceded by “comprises a . . . ” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, reference numeral 10 generally designates an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance 12. The attachment tool 10 includes a housing 14 having a top surface 16 and a bottom surface 18. A suction nozzle 20 defines a suction nozzle inlet 22 proximate the bottom surface 18. A fluid delivery circuit 24 is associated with the housing 14 for distributing a cleaning solution 26 to a surface 28 to be cleaned. A fluid recovery circuit 30 includes the suction nozzle 20 for extracting the cleaning solution 26 from the surface 28. An applicator apparatus 32 is elastically coupled to the housing 14 with at least one spring member 34 and moveable relative to the suction nozzle inlet 22 based on an elastic deformation of the at least one spring member 34. The applicator apparatus 32 includes an applicator body 36 defining a distribution manifold 38 in fluid communication with the fluid delivery circuit 24. The applicator body 36 supports a plurality of needle applicators 40 that each define a fluid delivery aperture 42 for receiving the cleaning solution 26 from the distribution manifold 38 and distributing the cleaning solution 26 onto the surface 28 to be cleaned.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, in use, the attachment tool 10 can be pressed into the surface 28 to be cleaned, like a carpet, such that the needle applicators 40 are at least partially pressed into the surface 28 (e.g., into a volume of a carpet). The elastic adjustability of at least one spring member 34 as indicated by the arrow designated “B” in FIG. 2A causes the needle applicators 40 to maintain a proximate distance from the suction nozzle inlet 22 in order to facilitate quick and efficient recovery of the cleaning solution 26. More particularly, each needle applicator 40 may include a sidewall 44 extending between an upper end 46 and a lower end 48 defining needle bodies 50. In some implementations, the fluid delivery aperture 42 is defined by the sidewall 44 proximate the lower end 48. More particularly, the fluid delivery aperture 42 may be spaced from the lower end 48 by at least a portion of the sidewall 44. In this manner, the fluid delivery aperture 42 may be oriented to distribute the cleaning solution 26 out and away from the sidewall 44 and the lower end 48. For example, the fluid delivery aperture 42 may be oriented along a distribution angle α that extends at least partially towards the upper end 46 (e.g., in an upward direction towards the housing 14) for distributing the cleaning solution 26 into the surface 28 to be cleaned and at least partially towards the suction nozzle inlet 22. Stated another way, the fluid delivery aperture 42 may generally distribute cleaning solution 26 towards a region of the surface 28 that resides directly under the suction nozzle inlet 22. In this manner, recovery of the soiled cleaning solution 26 from the surface 28 can be facilitated with minimal movement of the attachment tool 10, leading to improved dry times. In some implementations, the distribution angle α may be acute to focus the expelled cleaning solution 26 primarily within the depth or volume of the cleaning surface 28.

With reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the needle bodies 50 may each define an internal distribution channel 52 extending between the upper end 46 and the fluid delivery aperture 42. The internal distribution channels 52 may be in fluid communication with the distribution manifold 38. In some implementations, the needle bodies 50 may generally extend linearly between the upper end 46 and the lower end 48. In such implementations, the internal distribution channel 52 may extend linearly from the upper end 46 and then transversely at the fluid delivery aperture 42. In this manner, the cleaning solution 26 may undergo a change in direction near the fluid delivery aperture 42. In some implementations, at least a portion of the needle bodies 50 between the upper and lower ends 46, 48 may be generally cylindrical in shape until the lower end 48 where the sidewall 44 merges into a rounded end (i.e., lower end 48). The fluid delivery aperture 42 may be defined by a top distribution wall 54 and a bottom distribution wall 56 facing the top distribution wall 54 and located between top distribution wall 54 and the lower end 48. The top distribution wall 54 may, for example, extend substantially towards the suction nozzle inlet 22 towards the central axis C. The bottom distribution wall 56 may, for example, extend substantially perpendicular to the sidewall 44 towards the central axis C. The distribution angle α may be defined between the bottom distribution wall 56 and the top distribution wall 54.

The fluid delivery apertures 42 (e.g., the distribution angles α) are oriented to distribute at least part (e.g., substantially all) of the cleaning solution 26 in a direction substantially towards the suction nozzle inlet 22 and/or a cleaning zone that resides directly under the suction nozzle inlet 22. The distal end of the suction nozzle inlet 22 and the needle bodies 50 at least partially surround and define the cleaning zone. The fluid delivery apertures 42 are positioned and configured to deliver the cleaning solution 26 into the cleaning zone where the cleaning solution 26 and any entrained debris can be quickly extracted through the suction nozzle inlet 22 based on the proximity of the suction nozzle inlet 22. The surface 28 may define a depth or volume as shown in FIG. 2A. For example, the surface 28 may be a carpet with a backing 29, and the volume may be defined between a distal end 31 of the carpet and the backing 29. The needle applicators 40 are inserted into the carpet volume and may be elastically compressed or deformed via the at least spring member 34 (e.g., by pressing into the backing 29) towards the housing 14. The compressibility of the needle applicators 40 allows the user to adjust the distance between the suction nozzle inlet 22 and the fluid delivery apertures 42 to generally correspond to the depth of the surface 28. In this manner, the tool 10 is automatically adjusted to provide the fluid delivery apertures 42 at the correct depth within the surface 28 to deliver the cleaning solution 26 while also positioning the suction nozzle inlet 22 at a distance spaced from the fluid delivery apertures 42 to facilitate efficient extraction of the cleaning solution 26 and entrained debris. As the distance between the fluid delivery apertures 42 and the suction nozzle inlet 22 decreases, the extraction efficiency may increase, leading to a higher fluid recovery rate and thus decreased dry times. However, placing the fluid delivery apertures 42 and the suction nozzle inlet 22 too close together may not allow for sufficient dwell time of the cleaning solution, which may decrease cleaning efficacy. The present tool allows the distance between the fluid delivery apertures 42 and the suction nozzle inlet 22 to be adjusted according to the characteristics of the surface to balance extraction efficiency and cleaning efficacy. The configuration of the fluid delivery apertures 42 and the suction nozzle inlet 22 relative to the cleaning zone provides a flushing action whereby cleaning solution 26 is delivered into the cleaning zone and quickly drawn through the cleaning zone toward the suction nozzle inlet 22.

The fluid delivery apertures 42 are oriented to direct cleaning solution 26 substantially toward the suction nozzle inlet 22 and into a defined cleaning zone beneath the suction nozzle. This configuration ensures that solution and entrained debris are quickly drawn into the suction nozzle 20, creating a flushing action that limits solution spread and enhances recovery. Because the fluid delivery apertures 42 and suction nozzle inlet 22 are positioned in close proximity, the solution is extracted before it can seep beyond the carpet backing or migrate outwardly from the treated area. This minimizes liquid retention, reduces dry times, and prevents the spread of stains or debris. The needle applicators 40, mounted with a spring member 34, allow the tool to automatically adjust to surface depth, maintaining an optimal distance between the fluid delivery apertures 42 and the suction nozzle inlet 22. This balance provides effective penetration and dwell time for cleaning while providing a desired extraction efficiency. Unlike traditional spray tools that apply solution in one step and require a separate suction pass, this integrated arrangement delivers and extracts solution and entrained debris in a single step. The present tool 10 configuration can provide an improved balance between cleaning efficacy and extraction efficiency, which can improve dry times, across surfaces of varying depth.

With continued reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the suction nozzle inlet 22 may generally be located such that the delivery apertures 42 (e.g., the distribution angles α) face the suction nozzle inlet 22 and/or the central axis C. Stated another way, the delivery apertures 42 may be oriented to deliver fluid at an upward angle substantially towards the bottom surface 18. For example, the distribution angle α (e.g., a portion of the distribution angle α defined by the top distribution wall 54) may be oriented such that at least some of the cleaning solution 26 travels upwardly in a direction from the lower end 48 towards the suction nozzle inlet 22 and/or a plane that the suction nozzle inlet 22 generally resides on. Accordingly, at least some of the cleaning solution 26 (e.g., substantially all the cleaning solution 26) that has exited the needle applicators 40 is directed closer to the suction nozzle inlet 22 than the associated delivery apertures 42.

With reference now to FIGS. 2A-3, the plurality of needle applicators 40 may include one, two, three, four, five, ten, twelve, twenty, or more needle applicators 40 arranged in a pattern relative to the suction nozzle inlet 22. The pattern may include rows, columns, non-linear shapes, and a variety of other shapes. In some implementations, the pattern may include needle applicators 40 arranged at least partially, substantially, or fully around the suction nozzle inlet 22 (e.g., in a square, a rectangle, other polygonal shapes, an ellipse, and/or other patterns). In some implementations, a single sequence or row of needle applicators 40 defines the pattern. However, in other implementations, more than one concentric sequence or line of needle applicators 40 may define an inward pattern spaced proximate to and around the suction nozzle inlet 22 and an outward pattern spaced outwardly further from the inward pattern. Spaces between the needle applicators 40 in the inward pattern may be aligned with needle applicators 40 in the outward pattern in a staggered order. Regardless of the pattern, the fluid delivery apertures 42 may generally face the suction nozzle inlet 22 as described above. For example, in the depicted arrangement, at least some (e.g., a majority of or each) of the plurality of needle applicators 40 are coupled to the applicator body 36 in a circular pattern. The circular pattern may be distributed around the suction nozzle inlet 22. In the depicted arrangement, each of the needle applicators 40 is spaced equally from the suction nozzle inlet 22. More particularly, the applicator body 36 may define a central aperture 58 that is aligned with the suction nozzle inlet 22. The central aperture 58 may be moveable relative to the suction nozzle inlet 22 based on the elastic deformation of the at least spring member 34. More particularly, in the depicted arrangement, the suction nozzle 20 may be located within the central aperture 58 and extend to an end face 60 that defines the suction nozzle inlet 22. A plurality of recesses 61 may extend from the end face 60 along the suction nozzle 20 to provide a fluid recovery path to the fluid recovery circuit 30. The plurality of recesses 61 may form teeth in the end face 60 that can be used to agitate the surface 28 during cleaning with a scrubbing-type action. In some implementations, a lower surface of the applicator apparatus 32 includes projections 63 and the bottom surface 18 of the housing 14 includes slots 65 for further defining the fluid recovery path to the fluid recovery circuit 30. The central aperture 58 may extend about a central axis C that is aligned with the suction nozzle inlet 22, and the fluid delivery apertures 42 may substantially face inwardly towards the axis A. In operation, the suction nozzle 20 is in slidable engagement with the central aperture 58 as the at least one spring member 34 is deformed. In the depicted implementation, the distribution manifold 38 defines an annular cavity extending around the applicator body 36 and in fluid communication with each of the needle applicators 40 (e.g., the internal distribution channels 52). However, it should be appreciated that, in other implementations, the suction nozzle inlet 22 may be defined between the housing 14 and the applicator body 36.

With continued reference to FIGS. 2A-3, the housing 14 may include a main housing portion 62 that locates and supports the applicator apparatus 32 and a connection portion 64 that is configured to connect to the cleaning appliance 12. The connection portion 64 may define a fluid delivery port 66 associated with the fluid delivery circuit 24 and a fluid recovery port 68 associated with the fluid recovery circuit 30. A fluid delivery line 70 (e.g., flexible and formed of elastomeric material) may extend from the fluid delivery port 66, through a hole 72 defined by a rear surface 74 of the housing 14, to the distribution manifold 38. The hole 72 may be elongated in a direction between the top surface 16 and the bottom surface 18 of the housing 14 to permit the fluid delivery line 70 to travel with the applicator apparatus 32 as the at least one spring member 34 is deformed. The applicator apparatus 32 (i.e., the applicator body 36) may define a manifold input 75 that is connected to the fluid delivery line 70. In some implementations, the fluid recovery port 68 may include one or more latches, buttons, apertures, or connectors for selectively attaching and detaching the attachment tool 10 to the cleaning appliance 12. However, it should be appreciated that the attachment tool 10 or more generally “tool 10” may otherwise be permanently coupled to the cleaning appliance 12. Stated another way, the cleaning appliance 12 may include the attachment tool 10 in a permanent or selectively coupled arrangement.

With reference now to FIGS. 2A-4, the housing 14 defines an internal cavity 78 defined generally between the top surface 16 and the bottom surface 18. The bottom surface 18 of the housing 14 may define an opening 80 to the internal cavity 78, and the applicator body 36 is located within the housing 14 (i.e., the internal cavity 78) and aligned with the opening 80. In operation, the plurality of needle applicators 40 is moveable within the opening 80 based on the elastic deformation of the at least spring member 34. The at least one spring member 34 may include any member with elastic memory capable of returning to its original shape after deformation. For example, the at least one spring member 34 may include a helical spring. The helical spring may extend around a post 82. The post 82 may at least partially extend into and be slidable relative to a sleeve 84 based on the elastic deformation of the at least spring member 34. In the depicted implementation, the post 82 extends from (e.g., is defined by) the applicator body 36 and the sleeve 84 extends from (e.g., is defined by) the housing 14. The at least one spring member 34 may include a plurality of spring members 34 (e.g., two, three, four, or more spring members 34). At least two of the plurality of spring members 34 may be located on diametrically opposite sides of the applicator body 36. In the depicted implementation with the plurality of needle applicators 40 in a circular pattern and the applicator body 36 defining a circular outer border, the plurality of spring members 34 may include at least three spring members 34 spaced (e.g., equally) along a circumference of the circular outer border of the applicator body 36 to facilitate general linear movement of the applicator body 36 and maintain the relative orientation between the delivery apertures 42 and the suction nozzle inlet 22.

With reference now to FIG. 5, the cleaning appliance 12 is depicted schematically. The cleaning appliance 12 may include an appliance body 104 and a flexible suction hose 106 that extends from the appliance body 104 to the attachment tool 10 and be connected to the fluid delivery port 66 and the fluid recovery port 68. The flexible suction hose 106 may include a fluid outlet channel 108 connected to the fluid delivery port 66 and associated with the fluid delivery circuit 24 and a fluid inlet channel 110 connected to the fluid recovery port 68 and associated with the fluid recovery circuit 30. As schematically illustrated, the cleaning appliance 12 may include a fluid delivery and recovery system 112. The fluid delivery and recovery system 112 may include a supply tank 114 containing the cleaning solution 26. A fluid delivery line 116 extends from the supply tank 114 to the flexible suction hose 106 (e.g., the fluid outlet channel 108). A pump 118 is operably coupled to the supply tank 114 and/or the fluid delivery line 116. An intake pathway 120 may extend from the fluid inlet channel 110 to a debris holding container 122. A motor 124 is in operable communication with a fan 126 within the intake pathway 120. The motor 124 selectively generates an airflow through the intake pathway 120 (e.g., originating from the suction nozzle inlet 22 of the attachment tool 10). The cleaning appliance 12 may include a power source 128. In some embodiments, a battery 130 at least partially functions as the power source 128. The battery 130 may be charged by an AC current from an electrical outlet to a charging module 132, which may or may not be located directly on the battery 130. However, it should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the household AC current at least partially functions as the power source 128 in addition or alternatively to the battery 130. The cleaning appliance 12 may further include a control system 200 for effectuating the fluid delivery and recovery system 112 (e.g., on-off, suction power levels, flow rate of the cleaning solution 26, and/or the like). A valve 152 may be located between the fluid delivery line 116 and the pump 118 for selectively opening and closing the fluid delivery line 116.

With reference now to FIGS. 6-8, an attachment tool 210 for the cleaning appliance 12 according to a second construction is illustrated. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the attachment tool 210 may include all the same features, structures, materials, functional relationships and component orientations, and general functionalities of the attachment tool 10 previously described in reference to FIGS. 1-4. The attachment tool 210 may also be implemented with the cleaning appliance 12 depicted and described herein. More particularly, the attachment tool 210 includes a housing 214 having a top surface 216 and a bottom surface 218. A suction nozzle 220 defines a suction nozzle inlet 222 proximate the bottom surface 218. A fluid delivery circuit 224 is associated with the housing 214 for distributing the cleaning solution 26 to the surface 28 to be cleaned. A fluid recovery circuit 230 includes the suction nozzle 220 for extracting the cleaning solution 26 from the surface 28. An applicator apparatus 232 is elastically coupled to the housing 214 with at least one spring member 234 and moveable relative to the suction nozzle inlet 222 based on an elastic deformation of the at least one spring member 234. The applicator apparatus 232 includes an applicator body 236 defining a distribution manifold 238 in fluid communication with the fluid delivery circuit 224. The applicator body 236 supports a plurality of needle applicators 240 that each define a fluid delivery aperture 242 for receiving the cleaning solution 26 from the distribution manifold 238 and distributing the cleaning solution 26 onto the surface 28 to be cleaned. Similar to the first construction, a fluid delivery line 270 (e.g., flexible and formed of elastomeric material) may extend from a fluid delivery port 266, through a hole 272 defined by a rear surface 274 of the housing 214, to the distribution manifold 238.

Similar to the first construction depicted in FIGS. 1-4, in use, the attachment tool 210 can be pressed into the volume of the surface 28 to be cleaned, like a carpet with the backing 29, such that the needle applicators 240 are at least partially pressed into the surface 28 (e.g., into a depth of a carpet). Each needle applicator 240 may include a sidewall 244 extending between an upper end 246 and a lower end 248 defining needle bodies 250. In some implementations, the fluid delivery aperture 242 is defined by the sidewall 244 proximate the lower end 248. In this manner, the fluid delivery aperture 242 may be oriented to distribute the cleaning solution 26 away from the sidewall 244 and the lower end 248. For example, a central axis C may extend through a center of the suction nozzle inlet 222 and the fluid delivery apertures 242 may be oriented to face the central axis C. As depicted, the needle applicators 240 may be positioned on two or more sides of the central axis C with the fluid delivery apertures 242 facing inwardly towards the central axis C (e.g., generally towards the center of the suction nozzle inlet 222) from the two or more sides.

The needle bodies 250 may each define an internal distribution channel 252 extending between the upper end 246 and the fluid delivery aperture 242. The internal distribution channels 252 may be in fluid communication with the distribution manifold 238. The fluid delivery aperture 242 may be defined by a top distribution wall 254 and a bottom distribution wall 256 facing the top distribution wall 254 and located between top distribution wall 254 and the lower end 248. The top distribution wall 254 may, for example, extend upward towards the suction nozzle inlet 222 and in the direction of the central axis C. The bottom distribution wall 256 may, for example, extend substantially perpendicular to the sidewall 244 in the direction of the central axis C. The distribution angle α may be defined between the bottom distribution wall 256 and the top distribution wall 254 towards the central axis C. The distribution angle α may be acute to focus the expelled cleaning solution 26 primarily within the depth or volume of the cleaning surface 28. In some implementations, the top distribution wall 254 may be further oriented in a direction substantially towards the suction nozzle inlet 222 and/or a plane that the suction nozzle inlet 222 generally resides on.

With continued reference to FIGS. 6-8, the plurality of needle applicators 240 may include one, two, three, four, five, ten, twelve, twenty, or more needle applicators 240 arranged in a pattern relative to the suction nozzle inlet 222. For example, in the depicted arrangement, at least some (e.g., a majority of or each) of the plurality of needle applicators 240 are coupled to the applicator body 236 in at least one row (e.g., linearly, staggered, or in another pattern). More particularly, the plurality of needle applicators 240 may be centered along a straight line (e.g., the needle applicators 240 may be positioned linearly) at least partially across the suction nozzle inlet 222. In this manner, the plurality of needle applicators 240 may have different distances from the central axis C, with outer needle applicators 240 that are spaced from the central axis C by other needle applicators 240. Regardless of the number and respective locations of the needle applicators 240, the fluid delivery aperture 242 may all generally be oriented towards and expel cleaning solution in the direction of the central axis C. As will be described in greater detail below, the needle applicators 240 may extend through and be surrounded by the suction nozzle inlet 222, such that the extraction force from the suction nozzle inlet 222 surrounds the cleaning solution 26.

With continued reference to FIGS. 6-8, the housing 214 defines an internal cavity 278 defined generally between the top surface 216 and the bottom surface 218. The bottom surface 218 of the housing 214 may define an opening 280 to the internal cavity 278, and the applicator body 236 is located within the housing 214 (i.e., the internal cavity 278) and aligned with the opening 280. In operation, the plurality of needle applicators 240 are moveable within the opening 280 based on the elastic deformation of the at least spring member 234. The at least one spring member 234 may include any member with elastic memory capable of returning to its original shape after deformation. For example, the at least one spring member 234 may include a helical spring. The helical spring may extend around a post 282. The post 282 may at least partially extend into and be slidable relative to a sleeve 284 based on the elastic deformation of the at least spring member 234. In the depicted implementation, the post 282 extends from (e.g., is defined by) the applicator body 236 and the sleeve extends from (e.g., is defined by) the housing 214. The at least one spring member 234 may include a plurality of spring members 234 (e.g., two, three, four, or more spring members 234). At least two of the plurality of spring members 234 may be located on diametrically opposite sides of the row of needle applicators 240.

The compressibility of the needle applicators 240 allows the user to adjust the distance between the suction nozzle inlet 222 and the fluid delivery apertures 242 to generally correspond to the depth of the surface 28. In this manner, the tool is automatically adjusted to provide the fluid delivery apertures 242 at the correct depth within the surface 28 to deliver the cleaning solution while also positioning the suction nozzle inlet 222 at a distance spaced from the fluid delivery apertures 242 to facilitate efficient extraction of the cleaning solution and entrained debris. As the distance between the fluid delivery apertures 242 and the suction nozzle inlet 222 decreases, the extraction efficiency may increase, leading to a higher fluid recovery rate and thus decreased dry times. However, placing the fluid delivery apertures 242 and the suction nozzle inlet 222 too close together may not allow for sufficient dwell time of the cleaning solution, which may decrease cleaning efficacy. The present tool 210 allows the distance between the fluid delivery apertures 242 and the suction nozzle inlet 222 to be adjusted according to the characteristics of the surface to balance extraction efficiency and cleaning efficacy. The configuration of the fluid delivery apertures 242 and the suction nozzle inlet 222 relative to the cleaning zone provides a flushing action whereby cleaning solution 26 is delivered into the cleaning zone and quickly drawn through the cleaning zone toward the suction nozzle inlet 222. In the depicted arrangement, because the plurality of needle applicators 240 are spaced in a row, cleaning solution 26 from outer needle applicators 240 (e.g., needle applicators 240 spaced from the central axis C by other needle applicators 240) may pass by and mix with cleaning solution from inner needle applicators 240, which may be particularly beneficial for spot cleaning or stain removal near the central axis C.

In the depicted implementation, the applicator body 236 includes a lid portion 286 that couples to (e.g., is connected and sealed to or integral with) a needle applicator base 288, defining the distribution manifold 238 therebetween. The distribution manifold 238 may extend linearly along the row of needle applicators 240. The housing 214 may include an applicator chamber 290 that the applicator body 236 is located in and that the needle applicators 240 extend from. An applicator cover 292 is coupled to a bottom portion of the applicator chamber 290 (e.g., the opening 280) and defines several holes 293 that locate and guide the needle applicators 240. The housing 214 may further include a lens cover 294. The lens cover 294 may be selectively or permanently coupled to, for example, the top surface 216 and at least partially defines the fluid recovery circuit 230 between the lens cover 294 and an isolation wall 296 that separates the fluid recovery circuit 230 from the applicator chamber 290. The suction nozzle inlet 222 may be defined by a lens cover 294 adjacent to the applicator body 236, where the needle applicators 240 extend through and are surrounded by the suction nozzle inlet 222. In such scenarios, at least some of the fluid delivery apertures 242 may be oriented towards the central axis C and/or generally in an upward direction toward the surrounding suction nozzle inlet 222 or a plane that the suction nozzle inlet 222 generally resides on.

With reference now to FIGS. 9A and 9B, it should be appreciated that certain features of cleaning appliance 12 are exemplary in nature and that the attachment tool 10, 210 can be used with a variety of cleaning appliance technologies. As such, it will be understood that the features, functions, and structures described herein may be used in conjunction with a variety of surface cleaner configurations that utilize fluid delivery and recovery platforms. For example, the attachment tool 10, 210 may be implemented in conjunction with handheld vacuum cleaners, cleaners with liquid distribution, deep cleaners, portable cleaners, and any logically relevant type of fluid distribution and recovery-based cleaning system.

With reference now to FIG. 9A, the cleaning appliance 12 is configured as a portable deep cleaner device 400. The portable deep cleaner device 400 may have a variety of uses including the general cleaning of surfaces 28, but also offers additional components and functionalities that are particularly suitable for stain removal of surfaces 28, like a carpet, furniture, upholstery, bedding, and/or the like by introducing fluids, heat, and/or other cleaning agents to the surface 28 during cleaning. The portable deep cleaner device 400 may include a base 402 (e.g., a flat base) defined by an appliance body 404 that sits on the cleaning surface 28. A handle 406 may be connected to the appliance body 404 (e.g., opposite the base) for lifting and moving the portable deep cleaner device 400 between locations during the cleaning process. The attachment tool 10 may connect to the portable deep cleaner device 400 via a flexible suction hose 408. It should further be appreciated that the cleaning appliance 400 may include a variety of different components, functionalities, and materials, such as the device shown in U.S. Pat. No. 9,474,424, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

With reference now to FIG. 9B, the suction cleaning appliance 12 may be configured as an upright vacuum cleaner device 500. The upright vacuum cleaner device 500 may have a variety of uses including the general cleaning of surfaces 28, but also offers additional components and functionalities that are particularly suitable for larger areas than, for example, portable deep cleaner devices. The upright vacuum cleaner device 500 may also include components that facilitate the introduction of fluids, heat, and/or other cleaning agents to the surface 28 during cleaning. The upright vacuum cleaner device 500 may include a handle 502 that extends from an appliance body 504. One or more wheels 506 are rotatably connected to the appliance body 504 to facilitate movement of the upright vacuum cleaner device 500 around the cleaning surface 28. The attachment tool 10, 210 may be defined by a base of the appliance body 504 and/or may be selectively connected to a flexible suction hose 508. It should further be appreciated that the upright vacuum cleaner device 500 may include a variety of different components, functionalities, and materials, such as the device shown in U.S. Pat. No. 10,188,252, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The disclosure herein is further summarized in the following paragraphs and is further characterized by combinations of any and all of the various aspects described therein.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance includes a housing having a top surface and a bottom surface. A suction nozzle defines a suction nozzle inlet proximate the bottom surface. A fluid delivery circuit is associated with the housing for distributing a cleaning solution to a surface to be cleaned. A fluid recovery circuit includes the suction nozzle for extracting the cleaning solution from the surface. An applicator apparatus is elastically coupled to the housing with at least one spring member and moveable relative to the suction nozzle inlet based on an elastic deformation of the at least one spring member. The applicator apparatus includes an applicator body defining a distribution manifold in fluid communication with the fluid delivery circuit. The applicator body supports a plurality of needle applicators that each define a fluid delivery aperture for receiving the cleaning solution from the distribution manifold and distributing the cleaning solution onto the surface to be cleaned.

According to another aspect, at least some of a plurality of needle applicators of an attachment tool are coupled to an applicator body in a circular pattern.

According to yet another aspect, the circular pattern is distributed around a suction nozzle inlet.

According to still yet another aspect, an applicator body of an attachment tool defines a central aperture that is aligned with a suction nozzle inlet. The central aperture is moveable relative to the suction nozzle inlet based on the elastic deformation of at least one spring member.

According to another aspect, fluid delivery apertures of a plurality of needle applicators are oriented to distribute at least part of a cleaning solution in a direction substantially towards a suction nozzle inlet of an attachment tool.

According to yet another aspect, a housing of an attachment tool defines an internal cavity and a bottom surface of the housing defines an opening to the internal cavity. An applicator body is located within the housing and aligned with the opening, and the plurality of needle applicators are moveable within the opening based on the elastic deformation of at least one spring member.

According to still yet another aspect, at least one spring member coupled to an applicator body includes a helical spring extending around a post. The post at least partially extends into and is slidable relative to a sleeve based on the elastic deformation of the at least spring member.

According to another aspect, the post extends from the applicator body and the sleeve is defined by the housing.

According to yet another aspect, a suction nozzle inlet is defined between an applicator body and a housing of an attachment tool for extracting the cleaning solution entirely around the applicator body.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance includes a housing having a top surface and a bottom surface. A suction nozzle defines a suction nozzle inlet proximate the bottom surface. A fluid delivery circuit is associated with the housing for distributing a cleaning solution to a surface to be cleaned. A fluid recovery circuit includes the suction nozzle associated with the housing for extracting the cleaning solution from the surface. An applicator apparatus is in fluid communication with the fluid delivery circuit. The applicator apparatus supports a plurality of needle applicators that each include a sidewall extending between an upper end and a lower end defining needle bodies. Each sidewall defines a fluid delivery aperture proximate the lower end that is oriented along a distribution angle that extends at least partially towards the upper end for receiving and distributing the cleaning solution from the fluid delivery circuit onto the surface to be cleaned and at least partially towards the suction nozzle inlet.

According to another aspect, needle bodies of an attachment tool each define an internal distribution channel extending between an upper end and a fluid delivery aperture.

According to yet another aspect, the fluid delivery aperture is defined by a top distribution wall and a bottom distribution wall facing the top distribution wall and located between top distribution wall and the lower end.

According to still yet another aspect, the distribution angle is acute.

According to another aspect, the internal distribution channel extends substantially linearly between the upper end and the fluid delivery aperture extends transversely from the internal distribution channel, through the sidewall, and towards the suction nozzle inlet.

According to yet another aspect, the plurality of needle applicators at least partially surrounds the suction nozzle inlet.

According to still yet another aspect, the plurality of needle applicators is arranged in a circular pattern surrounding the suction nozzle inlet.

According to another aspect, the nozzle inlet defines a circular shape extending about a central axis and the fluid delivery apertures are oriented towards the central axis.

According to still yet another aspect, the top distribution wall extends substantially towards the suction nozzle inlet.

According to another aspect, the bottom distribution wall extends substantially perpendicular to the sidewall.

According to yet another aspect, a suction nozzle inlet is defined between an applicator apparatus and a housing of an attachment tool for extracting the cleaning solution entirely around the applicator apparatus.

According to still yet another aspect, an applicator apparatus of an attachment tool defines a central aperture extending about an axis that is aligned with a suction nozzle inlet, and fluid delivery apertures substantially face the axis.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an attachment tool for a cleaning appliance includes a housing having a top surface and a bottom surface. A suction nozzle defines a suction nozzle inlet proximate the bottom surface. A fluid delivery circuit is associated with the housing for distributing a cleaning solution to a surface to be cleaned. A fluid recovery circuit includes the suction nozzle for extracting the cleaning solution from the surface. An applicator apparatus is at least partially within the suction nozzle inlet and elastically coupled to the housing with at least one spring member and is moveable with respect to the suction inlet based on an elastic deformation of the at least spring member. The applicator apparatus includes an applicator body supporting a plurality of needle applicators that each define a fluid delivery aperture for receiving the cleaning solution from the fluid delivery circuit and distributing the cleaning solution onto the surface to be cleaned.

According to another aspect, a suction nozzle inlet is defined between an applicator body and a housing of an attachment tool for extracting the cleaning solution entirely around the applicator body.

According to yet another aspect, fluid delivery apertures are each oriented along a distribution angle to distribute the cleaning solution at least partially toward the bottom surface of a housing.

According to still yet another aspect, each of a plurality of fluid delivery apertures are defined by a top distribution wall and a bottom distribution wall, and the top distribution wall extends substantially toward the suction nozzle inlet.

It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or moveable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.

It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.