ADJUSTABLE STEERING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Description

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure generally relates to steering systems. More particularly, it relates to steering systems permitting user adjustment of an orientation and position of a steering component that are useful, for example, with floor treatment machines.

Industrial and commercial floors are cleaned on a regular basis for aesthetic and sanitary purposes. There are many types of industrial and commercial floors ranging from hard surfaces such as concrete, terrazzo, wood, and the like, which can be found in factories, schools, hospitals, and the like, to softer surfaces such as carpeted floors found in restaurants and offices. Various types of mobile floor cleaning machines having different sizes and capabilities (e.g., vacuums, scrubbers, sweepers, and extractors) have been developed to properly clean and maintain these different floor surfaces.

Ride-on and walk-behind machines are conventionally employed to efficiently clean or otherwise treat larger-scale floors. In general terms, ride-on and walk-behind floor treatment machines include a main framework or chassis that structurally supports the various treatment components (e.g., driven brushes and/or pads, liquid supply tank, recovery tank, collection bin or hopper, etc.), powered drive system components, and other systems/components such as wheels or tracks. A steering system affords an operator the ability to control a direction of the machine, effecting turns and maneuvering around objects as desired. The steering system typically includes a steering wheel supported by a shaft that extends from (or relative to) the chassis. The ergonomic comfort of the operator depends significantly on the spatial location or position of the steering wheel relative to the chassis, given the need for regular handling and rotation.

A preferred position of a particular floor treatment machine's steering wheel can vary greatly from operator-to-operator due, for example, to differences in body size/shape and driving style. However, many ride-on and walk-behind floor treatment machines, a position of the steering wheel relative to the chassis is fixed, potentially leading to discomfort for at least some operators. Other floor treatment machine designs incorporate an adjustable steering feature, such as a tilt adjustment mechanism (i.e., allowing the steering wheel to be tilted up or down relative to the chassis) or an extension/retraction adjustment mechanism (i.e., a telescopic length adjustment, enabling the steering wheel to be moved closer to or farther from the operator by adjusting a depth of the steering wheel relative to the chassis). While available ride-on and walk-behind floor treatment machines with both tilt adjustment and telescoping adjustment certainly enhance the ability of an individual operator to achieve an optimal ergonomic steering wheel position, the layouts and corresponding mechanisms of such machines are relatively complex and costly. Moreover, the operator is tasked with locating and activating multiple levers to independently effect a tilt adjustment or an extension/retraction adjustment.

SUMMARY

The inventor of the present disclosure has recognized a need to address one or more of the above-mentioned problems.

Some aspects of the present disclosure relate to a steering adjustment assembly for use with a steering system of a floor treatment machine that otherwise includes a steering component (e.g., a steering wheel). The steering adjustment assembly includes a tilt sub-assembly, a telescoping sub-assembly, and a control sub-assembly. The tilt sub-assembly is configured to control a tilt angle of the steering component relative a chassis of the floor treatment machine, and includes a first frame and a first lock/release device. The first lock/release device provides a locked state in which a rotational orientation of the first frame is fixed and a released state in which the rotational orientation is adjustable. The telescoping sub-assembly is configured to control a distance between the steering component and the chassis, and includes a second frame, a second lock/release device, and a coupling device configured to slidably maintain the second frame. The second lock/release device provides a locked state in which a linear distance between the second frame and the chassis is fixed and a released state in which the linear distance is adjustable. The control sub-assembly operably connects an actuator to the first and second lock/release devices. Further, the control sub-assembly is configured to simultaneously transition the first and second lock/release devices to the corresponding released state in response to user manipulation of the actuator. Finally, one of the first and second frames is connected to the chassis of the floor treatment machine and the other of the first and second frames supports the steering component. With this construction, upon actuation of the actuator, an operator can simultaneously adjust a tilt angle and a telescoping position of the steering component relative to the chassis. In some embodiments, the first and second lock/release devices are variable gas springs, with the control sub-assembly including first and second lines extending from the actuator to a corresponding control device of a respective one the first and second variable gas springs. In some embodiments, the first frame (of the tilt sub-assembly) is rotatably coupled to the chassis, and the second frame (of the telescoping sub-assembly) supports the steering component and is slidably connected to the first frame via or along the coupling device.

Other aspects of the present disclosure relate to a floor treatment machine including a chassis, at least one steered wheel rotatably coupled to the chassis, at least one floor treating implement carried by the chassis, and a steering system operable to steer the floor treatment machine. The steering system includes a steering component, a steering transmission assembly, and a steering adjustment assembly. The steering component can be a steering wheel, handle, knob, etc. The steering transmission assembly is configured to translate movements of the steering component to the at least one steered wheel. The steering adjustment assembly supports the steering component relative to the chassis. The steering adjustment assembly includes a tilt sub-assembly, a telescoping sub-assembly, and a control sub-assembly. The tilt sub-assembly is configured to control a tilt angle of the steering component relative the chassis, and includes a first frame and a first lock/release device. The first lock/release device provides a locked state in which a rotational orientation of the first frame is fixed and a released state in which the rotational orientation is adjustable. The telescoping sub-assembly is configured to control a distance between the steering component and the chassis, and includes a second frame, a second lock/release device, and a coupling device configured to slidably maintain the second frame. The second lock/release device provides a locked state in which a linear distance between the second frame and the chassis is fixed and a released state in which the linear distance is adjustable. The control sub-assembly operably connects an actuator to the first and second lock/release devices. Further, the control sub-assembly is configured to simultaneously transition the first and second lock/release devices to the corresponding released state in response to user manipulation of the actuator. With this construction, upon actuation of the actuator, an operator can simultaneously adjust a tilt angle and a telescoping position of the steering component relative to the chassis. In some embodiments, the first and second lock/release devices are variable gas springs. In some embodiments, the steering transmission assembly is a drive-by-wire steering transmission assembly including a shaft extending from the steering component.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a floor treatment machine including a steering adjustment assembly in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an example floor treatment machine that can include the steering adjustment assemblies of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an example floor treatment machine that can include the steering adjustment assemblies of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a steering adjustment assembly in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a simplified illustration of a steering adjustment assembly in accordance with principles of the present disclosure supporting a steering component relative to a chassis;

FIG. 5 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a portion of the steering adjustment assembly of FIG. 4;

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate operation of the steering adjustment assembly of FIG. 4 to facilitate adjustment of a tilt angle and a telescoped position of the steering component relative to the chassis;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a steering module useful with a floor treatment machine and including a steering adjustment assembly in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8A is a front view of portions of the steering module of FIG. 7;

FIG. 8B is a side view of portions of the steering module of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is an enlarged, side cross-sectional view of portions of the steering module of FIG. 7 and illustrating components of the steering adjustment assembly;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of first and second frames of the steering adjustment assembly of FIG. 9 upon final assembly;

FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement of FIG. 10A, taken along the line 10B-10B; and

FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a control sub-assembly of the steering adjustment assembly of FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some aspects of the present disclosure are directed to steering adjustment assemblies useful with a steering system of a machine, for example, with ride-on and/or walk-behind floor treatment machines. The steering adjustment assemblies of the present disclosure elegantly provide an operator with the ability to simultaneously adjust the tilt orientation and the telescoping extension/retraction position of a steering wheel (or other steering component format) akin to a floating steering column in response to actuation of a single lever.

The steering adjustment assemblies of the present disclosure can be useful with a variety of differently-configured floor treatment machines, including known or available ride-on and walk-behind floor treatment machines configured as at least one of a sweeper machine, a vacuum machine, a scrubber machine, or a combination thereof. In general terms, and with reference to the block diagram of FIG. 1, a floor treatment machine 20 of the present disclosure generally includes a chassis 30, wheels 32, a power source 34, a drive system 36, a cleaning system 38, and a steering system 40. The chassis 30 serves as the structural frame, supporting all components and providing stability. The wheels 32 are connected to the chassis 30 (e.g., via a suspension system). The power source 34 can assume various forms, and can be a battery or combustion engine. The drive system 36 transmits power from the power source 34 to one or more or all of the wheels 32 (i.e., driven wheels(s)). The cleaning system 38 includes components, implements, and mechanisms for performing one or more intended floor treatment operations, for example brushes/scrubbers, collection hopper, solution tank and corresponding pump/spray components, liquid recovery tank, squeegee(s), vacuum source, extractor, etc.

The components 30-38 can have any configuration useful as or with a ride-on or walk-behind floor treatment machine as are known in the art. The steering system 40 can also be generally akin to known or conventional ride-on or walk-behind floor treatment machine cleaning systems and includes a steering component 50 and a steering transmission assembly 52. The steering component 50 is a physical device for receiving at least steering input from an operator. For example, the steering component can include at least one of a wheel (or “steering wheel”), a handle, a knob, or a combination thereof. The steering transmission assembly 52 is configured to translate or transmit movements of the steering component 50 to one or more or all of the wheels 32 (i.e., steered wheel(s)). The steering transmission assembly 52 can assume various forms. For example, the steering transmission assembly 52 can have a drive-by-wire configuration in which sensor(s) detect an operator's input at the steering component 50, and an electronic control unit that processes the input and signals actuator(s) (e.g., electric motor) associated with the steered wheel(s) to effect the desired steering angle. Alternatively, the steering transmission assembly 52 can incorporate a conventional steering transmission format, such as mechanical linkages and/or hydraulic fluid to transmit operator input from the steering component 50 to the steered wheel(s). Regardless of the formats of the steering component 50 and the steering transmission assembly 52, the steering system 40 further includes a steering adjustment assembly 54. As described in greater detail below, the adjustment assemblies of the present disclosure facilitate operator-prompted movement or adjustment of a position and/or orientation (e.g., tilt and/or extension/retraction) of the steering component 50 relative to the chassis 30.

It will be understood that the floor treatment machines of the present disclosure can include a number of additional components as are known in the art. For example, various control system components can be provided, such as a user interface (e.g., control panel or screen), controller(s) (e.g., microcontroller, processor, etc.) that manage inputs and controls operations, sensors, safety features, outer shells or panels, etc. The adjustment assembly 54 of the present disclosure can be utilized with virtually any floor treatment machine configuration. By way of further examples, FIG. 2A is a non-limiting example of a ride-on type floor cleaning machine 70 of the present disclosure that includes a chassis 80 (reference generally), wheels 82 (one of which is visible) and various cleaning implements 84. A steering component 86 (of the corresponding steering assembly) is provided proximate a seat 88 in which an operator sits and is operable to effect steering of one or more of the wheels 82. A steering adjustment assembly (hidden) of the present disclosure allows an operator to adjust a tilt and a telescoping extension/retraction of the steering component 86 relative to the chassis 80 and thus relative to the operator stationed in the seat 88. FIG. 2B is a non-limiting example of a walk-behind type floor cleaning machine 100 of the present disclosure that includes a chassis 110 (referenced generally), wheels 112 (one of which is visible), and various cleaning implements 114. The floor cleaning machine 100 is configured such that an operator is stationed at a rear side 116 (referenced generally) and walks behind the machine 100 during use. With this in mind, a steering component 118 (of the corresponding steering assembly) is provided at a location for ready access by the so-positioned operator. A steering adjustment assembly (hidden) of the present disclosure allows an operator to adjust a tilt and an extension/retraction of the steering component 118 relative to the chassis 110 and thus relative to the operator as s/he stands or walks behind the floor treatment machine 100.

With the above background in mind, one embodiment of a steering adjustment assembly 120 of the present disclosure and useful with floor treatment machines is shown in FIG. 3. In general terms, and commensurate with the descriptions above, the steering adjustment assembly 120 is configured to support a steering component 130 relative to a chassis 132 in a manner permitting selective tilting and/or telescoping adjustments or movements by an operator. The steering adjustment assembly 120 can include a tilt sub-assembly 140, a telescoping sub-assembly 150, and a control sub-assembly 160. The tilt sub-assembly 140 is configured to control a tilt angle of the steering component 130 relative to the chassis 132 and includes a first frame 142 and a first lock/release device 144. The first frame 142 is generally configured to be pivotably or rotatably connected to the chassis 132, with the first lock/release device 144 configured and arranged to selectively rotationally lock the first frame 142 relative to the chassis 132. The telescoping sub-assembly 150 includes a second frame 152, a coupling device 154, and a second lock/release device 156. The second frame 152 is configured to support the steering component 130 in a manner permitting the steering component 130 to freely rotate or otherwise be articulated by an operator. The coupling device 154 interconnects the first and second frames 142, 152 such that the second frame 152 rotates with rotation of the first frame 142 but in a manner permitting the second frame 152 to selectively translate linearly relative to the first frame 142. The second lock/release device 156 is configured and arranged to selectively lock the second frame 152 relative to the first frame 142. Finally, the control sub-assembly 160 is operably connected to the first and second lock/release devices 144, 156 and includes an actuator 162. The control sub-assembly 160 is configured such that operation of the actuator 162 causes the first and second lock/release devices 144, 156 to simultaneously transition from a locked state to a released state, and vice-versa. While the first frame 142 (of the tilt sub-assembly 140) has been described as being mounted to the chassis 132 and the second frame 152 (of the telescoping sub-assembly 150) as supporting the steering component 130, in other embodiments a reverse arrangement can be employed (i.e., the second frame 152 can be slidably connected to the chassis 132 and the first frame 142 can be pivotably connected to the second frame 152).

The first and second frames 142, 152 can have a wide variety of forms and constructions, conducive to arrangement and movement within an enclosure or housing of the corresponding floor treatment machine. The coupling device 154 can assume various forms that couple the first and second frames 142, 152 in a manner permitting linear or sliding movement of the first frame 142 relative to the second frame 152. For example, the coupling device 154 can include a track/rail configuration or slide mechanism that facilitates smooth, controlled sliding motion of the second frame 152 toward or away from the first frame 142 while ensuring that the second frame 152 rotates with rotation of the first frame 142. In some embodiments, and as described in greater detail below, one or more biasing devices can be provided that are configured and arranged to bias the second frame 152 toward or away from the first frame 142 along the coupling device 154.

The first and second lock/release devices 144, 156 can assume various forms. In some examples, the first and second lock/release devices 144, 156 can each include a piston-cylinder assembly, for example a variable gas spring. In general terms, variable gas springs allow for adjustable or variable control of a force exerted by the device and/or its range of motion. A variable gas spring includes a gas chamber, a piston arranged to move within the gas chamber, a rod, and an adjustment mechanism. The gas chamber contains pressurized gas that provides the spring force. The piston separates the gas chamber form the working area and allows the gas to compress or expand, thus adjusting the spring force. The rod is attached to the piston and extends beyond the gas chamber, thus advancing or retracting as the piston moves. The adjustment mechanism provides a control device (e.g., screw or valve) that allows for adjustment of the internal pressure of the gas spring. In a first state of the adjustment mechanism, the gas chamber is pressurized, effectively locking the piston/rod relative to the gas chamber. In a second state of the adjustment mechanism, pressure is released from the gas chamber, allowing the piston/rod to freely advance/retract relative to the gas chamber. With these and related embodiments, the control sub-assembly 160 can include components appropriate for operating the adjustment mechanism between the first and second states (e.g., cables or hydraulic lines connected to the corresponding variable gas spring adjustment mechanism) in response to movement of the actuator 162. Other lock/release device configurations can also be employed that may or may not include a variable gas spring (e.g., a biased linkage), with the control sub-assembly 160 including components appropriate for interfacing with the so-selected lock/release device design.

With the above in mind, FIG. 4 illustrates, in simplified form, one example of a steering adjustment assembly 200 (referenced generally) in accordance with principles of the present disclosure optionally incorporating variable gas springs. The steering adjustment assembly 200 is configured to support a steering component 210 relative to a chassis 212 in a manner permitting selective tilting and/or telescoping adjustments or movements by an operator. As a point of reference, with the non-limiting example of FIG. 4, the steering component 210 is provided as part of a drive-by-wire steering system. As generally reflected by FIG. 4, with the drive-by-wire steering arrangement, a shaft 220 extends from the steering component 210 (e.g., a steering wheel) and is rotatably supported within a steering control unit 222. The steering control unit 222 includes, amongst other components, various sensors, an electronic control unit and a communication interface. The shaft 220 rotates with rotation of the steering component 210, with this rotation being sensed by the sensor(s) of the steering control unit 222. The electronic control module receives inputs from the sensor(s) and executes algorithms to convert the operator's input at the steering component 210 into steering control signals that are communicated to the actuator(s) (e.g., electric motor) associated with the steered wheel(s). Other steering system techniques can alternatively be employed. Further, it will be understood that the chassis 212 is schematically reflected in FIG. 4; the chassis 212 can have a wide variety of sizes and shapes corresponding with an overall chassis design or footprint of the corresponding floor treatment machine.

The steering adjustment assembly 200 includes a tilt sub-assembly 230, a telescoping sub-assembly 232, and a control sub-assembly 234. The tilt sub-assembly 230 includes a first frame 240 and a first lock/release device 242. The first frame 240 is pivotably or rotatably mounted to the chassis 212 such that the first frame 240 can rotate relative to the chassis 212 about an axis of rotation R. The first lock/release device 242 is a variable gas spring extending between first and second ends 244, 246. The first lock/release device 242 can be a variable gas spring of a type known in the art, operable to selectively increase or decrease in length (i.e., linear distance between the ends 244, 246) and includes a control device (not shown), such as a latch or valve, which allows for adjustment of the internal pressure of the gas spring. The first end 244 is pivotably coupled the chassis 212 at a first pivot point P1, and the second end 246 is pivotably coupled to the first frame 240 at a second pivot point P2 that is otherwise laterally off-set from the axis of rotation R. With this arrangement, when the first lock/release device 242 is in a locked state (i.e., a condition in which the spring's ability to compress or extend is restricted or entirely halted, dictating that a length of the first variable gas spring 242 is fixed), the first lock/release device242 prevents the first frame 240 from rotating relative to the chassis 212. In particular, because the major axis of the first lock/release device242 is off-set from the axis of rotation R, when a length of the first lock/release device 242 is fixed, the first frame 240 cannot rotate about the axis of rotation R. Conversely, when the first lock/release device 242 is in a released or unlocked state (i.e., a condition in which the spring is free to adjust its length, either by compressing or extending in response to external forces or adjustments), the first variable gas spring 242 does not prevent the first frame 240 from rotating relative to the chassis 212 about the axis of rotation R. In particular, the first lock/release device 242 freely increases or decreases in length as the first frame 240 rotates relative to the chassis 212, with the first end 244 pivoting relative to the chassis 212 at the first pivot point P1 and the second end 246 pivoting relative to the first frame 240 at the second pivot point P2.

The telescoping sub-assembly 232 includes a second frame 260, a coupling device 262, and a second lock/release device 264. The second frame 260 is configured to support the steering component 210 in a manner permitting the steering component 210 to freely rotate or otherwise be articulated by an operator. With the non-limiting example of FIG. 4 in which the steering component 210 is part of a drive-by-wire steering system, the steering control unit 222 can be mounted to or carried by the second frame 260 as shown. With these and related embodiments, the second frame 260 supports the steering component 210 via the steering control unit 222 and the shaft 220. Other constructions by which the second frame 260 supports the steering component 210 are also acceptable, and the steering adjustment assemblies of the present disclosure are not limited to use with drive-by-wire steering systems.

The coupling device 262 interconnects the first and second frames 240, 260 such that the second frame 260 rotates with rotation of the first frame 240 but in a manner permitting the second frame 260 to selectively translate linearly relative to the first frame 240 as represented by the arrow T. A configuration of the coupling device 262 can assume a wide variety of forms. One non-limiting example of a portion of the coupling device 262 is shown in simplified form in FIG. 5 and includes a track 270 attached to the first frame 240 and a rail 272 attached to the second frame 260. The track 270 defines a slot 274 that is sized and shaped to slidably receive the rail 272. Upon final assembly, the rail 272 is slidably captured within the slot 274. With this arrangement, the second frame 260 can linearly articulate relative the first frame 240 (into and out of a plane of the page of FIG. 5) with the rail 272 sliding along the slot 270. Additional track 270/rail 272 assemblies can be provided at other locations along the first and second frames 240, 260 and/or can include additional components to reduce friction (e.g., rollers, bearings, sliding shoes, etc.). Further, an arrangement of the track 270 and the rail 272 can be reversed (i.e., the track 270 is attached to the second frame 260 and the rail 272 is attached to the first frame 240). Regardless, engagement between track 270 and the rail 272 constrains movement of the second frame 260 relative to the first frame 240 to the linear motion described above. Other mechanisms or assemblies that may or may not include a track and rail configuration can alternatively be employed with the coupling devices of the present disclosure.

Returning to FIG. 4, the telescoping sub-assembly 232 can optionally further include one or more biasing devices 280 for reasons made clear below. With the non-limiting example of FIG. 4, the biasing device 280 is or includes a coil spring extending between and interconnecting the first and second frames 240, 260. With this arrangement, the biasing device 280 biases the second frame 260 toward the first frame 240, with movement of the second frame 260 relative to the first frame 240 being constrained by the coupling device 262 as described above (i.e., absent external forces being applied to the first and second frames 240, 260, the biasing device(s) 280 causes the second frame 260 to linearly slide toward the first frame 240 via or along the coupling device 262). In other embodiments, the biasing device(s) 280 can assume other configuration that may or may not include a spring. In yet other embodiments, the biasing device 280 can be omitted.

The second lock/release device 264 can be a variable gas spring extending as described above, extending between first and second ends 290, 292. The second lock/release device 264 can be a variable gas spring of a type known in the art, operable to selectively increase or decrease in length (i.e., linear distance between the ends 290, 292) and includes a control device (not shown), such as a latch or valve, which allows for adjustment of the internal pressure of the gas spring. The first end 290 is pivotably coupled the chassis 212 at a first pivot point P3, and the second end 292 is pivotably coupled to the second frame 260 at a second pivot point P4. With this arrangement, when the second lock/release device 264 is in a locked state (i.e., a condition in which the spring's ability to compress or extend is restricted or entirely halted, dictating that a length of the second lock/release device 264 is fixed), the second lock/release device 264 prevents the second frame 260 moving relative to the chassis 212 (and thus from linearly translating relative to the first frame 240. Conversely, when the second lock/release device 264 is in a released or unlocked state (i.e., a condition in which the spring is free to adjust its length, either by compressing or extending in response to external forces or adjustments), the second lock/release device 264 does not prevent the second frame 260 from moving relative to the chassis 212 or linearly translating relative to the first frame 240. In particular, the second lock/release device 264 freely increases or decreases in length as the second frame 260 is caused to linearly translate relative to the first frame 240. Further, under circumstances where both of the lock/release devices 242, 264 are in an unlocked state, the second frame 260 can rotate relative to the chassis 212 (along with the first frame 240), with the first end 290 pivoting relative to the chassis 212 at the first pivot point P3 and the second end 292 pivoting relative to the second frame 260 at the second pivot point P4.

The control sub-assembly 234 is operably connected to the first and second lock/release devices 242, 264 and includes an actuator. With embodiments in which the lock/release devices 242, 264 are variable gas springs, the control sub-assembly 234 can include a first line 300 connected to the control mechanism of the first variable gas spring 242 and a second line 302 connected to the control mechanism of the second variable gas spring 264. A construction and arrangement of the lines 300, 302 corresponds with a format of the corresponding control mechanism, and is operable (e.g., a cable that can be tensioned to apply or release a force at the control mechanism, a fluid line that communicates or release pressure at the control mechanism, etc.) to transition the control mechanism, and thus the variable gas spring 242, 264 from a locked or closed state to an unlocked or open state, and vice-versa. Where the lock/release devices 242, 264 have other formats (that may or may not include a variable gas spring), the connection lines 300, 302 can have other configurations. Regardless, the lines 300, 302 are both connected to an actuator 304. The actuator 304 can assume various forms and is generally configured and arranged relative to the chassis 212 to be readily accessed and manipulated or actuated by an operator (e.g., the actuator 304 can extend from the second frame 260). Moreover, the actuator 304 is configured and arranged such that actuation of the actuator 304 simultaneously operates the first and second lines 300, 302 in a manner causing each of the lines 300, 302 to effect a change at the control mechanism of the corresponding lock/release device 242, 264. For example, with some non-limiting embodiments in which each of the lock/release devices 242, 264 is a variable gas spring with a latch-type control mechanism, each of the lines 300, 302 can be a wire or cable extending from the corresponding latch-type control mechanism to a point of connection with the actuator 304. The actuator 304, in turn, can be a physical body (e.g., a lever or similar structure) maintained by the chassis 212 such that physical movement of the actuator 304 relative to the chassis 212 applies or releases a tension force in the lines 300, 302 that in turn causes the variable gas springs 242, 264 to simultaneously transition from the locked or closed state to an unlocked or open state, or vice-versa. In other embodiments, the actuator 304 can be part of an electronic-based control system (e.g., the actuator 304 can be a push button or key that when actuated, causes electrical control signals to be sent that cause a simultaneous change in the state of the lock/release devices 242, 264).

Regardless of an exact construction, in some embodiments, the control sub-assembly 234 is configured to operate in a normal or home condition in which the tilt sub-assembly 230 and the telescoping sub-assembly 232 are locked or fixed relative to the chassis 212. For example, with embodiments in which the first and second lock/release devices 242, 264 are variable gas springs, the control sub-assembly 234 can be configured such that unless actuated by an operator, the actuator 304 is biased to, or is maintained at, a position in which the corresponding control mechanism is in a closed or locked state (e.g., tension, if any, in the lines 300, 302 is below a level otherwise necessary to open or unlock the corresponding control mechanism). In the normal or home condition, then, the steering adjustment assembly 200 rigidly maintains a position of the steering component 210 relative to the chassis 212, allowing an operator to confidently rotate or otherwise interact with the steering component 210 when operating the floor treatment device.

When the operator desires to change a position of the steering component 210, the actuator 304 is actuated by the operator (e.g., the operator presses or holds a lever-type actuator), simultaneously transitioning the first and second lock/release devices 242, 264 from the normal, locked state to an unlocked state. In the unlocked state of the first and second lock/release devices 242, 264, the steering adjustment assembly 200 operates akin to a floating steering column, allowing an operator to tilt/rotate and/or telescope the steering component 210 relative to the chassis 212.

For example, FIG. 6A reflects the steering component 210 having been tilted relative to the chassis 212 from the arrangement of FIG. 4 (i.e., a tilt angle of the steering component 210 has been adjusted from the arrangement of FIG. 4 to the arrangement of FIG. 6A). In particular, the first and second lock/release devices 242, 264 are both in the unlocked state and thus do not impede or prevent the first frame 240 from rotating relative to the chassis 212 about the axis of rotation R. In transitioning from the arrangement of FIG. 4 to that of FIG. 6A, a moment force is applied to the steering adjustment assembly 200 that causes rotation in the counterclockwise direction. For example, an operator can apply a force in the desired tilt adjustment direction onto the steering component 210; the so-applied force is transmitted to the second frame 260 and the first frame 240 (via connection between the first and second frames 240, 260 at the coupling device 262) and induces rotational motion of the first frame 240 about the axis of rotation. Because the second frame 260 is rotationally fixed to the first frame 240, second frame 260 rotates or pivots with rotation of the first frame 240, in turn allowing the steering component 210 to rotate or “tilt” as desired by the operator. The first and second lock/release device 242, 264 adjust in length and pivot or rotate relative to the chassis 212 and do not otherwise impede the rotational movement. When the desired tilt or rotational position of the steering component 210 is achieved, the lock/release devices 242, 264 are returned to the locked state (i.e., prompted by the operator manipulating the actuator 304), thus fixing the steering component 210 to the so-established, desired tilt position.

FIG. 6B reflects the steering component 210 having been telescoped away from, or “extended” relative to, the chassis 212 from the arrangement of FIG. 4. In particular, the second lock/release device 264 is in the unlocked state (as is the first lock/release device 242) and thus does not impede or prevent the second frame 260 from linearly moving toward or away from the first frame 240 (and thus the chassis 212). In transitioning from the arrangement of FIG. 4 to that of FIG. 6B, a lifting force is applied to the second frame 260 that causes the second frame 260 to translate away from the first frame 240, with the coupling device 262 maintaining engagement between the first and second frames 240, 260. For example, an operator can apply a force in the desired telescoping adjustment direction onto the steering component 210; the so-applied force is transmitted to the second frame 260 and induces linear movement of the second frame 260 relative to the first frame 240 (and thus relative to the chassis 212). The second lock/release device 264 adjusts in length and pivots or rotates relative to the second frame 260 and/or the chassis 212 and does not otherwise impede the linear movement. When the desired telescoped position of the steering component 210 relative to the chassis 212 is achieved, the lock/release devices 242, 264 are returned to the locked state (i.e., prompted by the operator manipulating the actuator 304), thus fixing the steering component 210 to the so-established, desired telescoping position. Where provided, the biasing device 280 biases the second frame 260 toward the first frame 240 such that when the second lock/release device 264 is in the unlocked state, the second frame 260 tends to move or return linearly toward the first frame 240 in a manner that facilitates operator ease of use in directing and retaining the second frame 260 in a desired telescoping position.

It will be understood from the above explanations that with both of the lock/release devices 242, 264 in the unlocked state, an operator can simultaneously adjust or change the tilt arrangement and the telescoping position of the steering component 220 relative to the chassis 212 following operation of the actuator 304. The steering adjustment assembly 200 is easy and straightforward to use and operate.

The steering adjustment assemblies of the present disclosure can be implemented in various fashions and can incorporate one or more additional features, based upon, for example, an overall layout of the floor treatment machine (or other machine for which adjustable steering is desired). By way of non-limiting example, FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a steering module 400 that can be provided with or assembled to a floor treatment machine (e.g., a ride-on floor treatment machine as described above) and that incorporates a non-limiting example steering adjustment assembly of the present disclosure. The steering module 400 includes a housing 410 that maintains various components and is configured to include, or to be mounted to, a chassis 412 (referenced generally) of the floor treatment machine. The steering module 400 incorporates a steering system that includes a steering component 414, a drive-by-wire transmission assembly (hidden), and a steering adjustment assembly 420 (referenced generally). Components of the steering adjustment assembly 420 are primarily hidden in the view of FIG. 7 and are described in greater detail below.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate various components of the steering module 400 with the housing 410 removed. The steering adjustment assembly 420 (referenced generally) connects the steering component 414 with the chassis 412. In particular, with the example steering module 400, a drive-by-wire steering control unit 430 supports and interfaces with the steering component 414 as described above, and is mounted to or carried by a frame of the steering adjustment assembly 420. With this in mind, the steering adjustment assembly 420 includes a tilt sub-assembly 440, a telescoping sub-assembly 442, and a control sub-assembly 444.

Features of the sub-assemblies 440-444 are more readily visible in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 9. For ease of understanding, the steering component 414 and the steering control unit 430 are omitted from the view. As shown, the tilt sub-assembly 440 includes a first frame 450 and a first lock/release device 452. The first frame 450 is pivotably or rotatably mounted to the chassis 412 at a joint 454 (e.g., a rotary coupling) such that the first frame 450 can rotate relative to the chassis 412 about an axis of the joint 454. The first lock/release device 452 is a variable gas spring as described above extending between opposing, first and second ends and includes a control device 456, such as a latch or valve, which allows for adjustment of the internal pressure of the gas spring. The first end of the variable gas spring 452 is pivotably coupled the chassis 412 at a joint (hidden), and the second end is pivotably coupled to the first frame 450 by a pin 458 at a location that is otherwise laterally off-set from the joint 454/axis of rotation.

The telescoping sub-assembly 442 includes a second frame 470, one or more coupling devices 472, a second lock/release device 474, and one or more biasing devices 476. The second frame 470 is configured to support the steering control unit 430 (FIG. 8A), and thus the steering component 410 (FIG. 8A). For example, the second frame 470 can include or carry an upper panel 480 sized and shaped for mounting of the steering control unit 430 thereto.

The coupling device(s) 472 interconnects the first and second frames 450, 470 such that the second frame 470 rotates with rotation of the first frame 450 (and vice-versa) but in a manner permitting the second frame 470 to selectively translate linearly relative to the first frame 450. By way of further explanation, FIG. 10A illustrates the first and second frames 450, 472 in isolation upon final assembly. In the view of FIG. 10A, a portion of one of the coupling devices 472 is visible. A cross-section of the arrangement of FIG. 10A is shown in FIG. 10B and illustrates that two of the coupling devices 472 can be provided at opposite sides of the frames 450, 470. Each of the coupling devices 472 includes a first slider body 482 formed along or projecting from an interior face of the first frame 450 and a second slider body 484 formed along or projecting from an exterior face of the second frame 470. The slider bodies 482, 484 have complementary constructions, forming or defining track(s) and/or rail(s) slidably capture the slider bodies 482, 484 to one another upon final assembly. With this arrangement, the second frame 470 can linearly articulate relative the first frame 450, with the second slider body 484 sliding along, but remaining captured relative to, the corresponding first slider body 482.

Returning to FIG. 9, the second lock/release device 474 is a variable gas spring as described above extending between opposing, first and second ends and includes a control device 490, such as a latch or valve, which allows for adjustment of the internal pressure of the gas spring. The first end of the variable gas spring is pivotably coupled the chassis 412 at a joint 492, and the second end is pivotably coupled to the second frame 450 by a pin 494.

The biasing device(s) 476 interconnects the first and second frames 450, 470 and is or includes a coil spring. Because the first frame 450 cannot linearly move relative to the chassis 412, when the coil spring 476 is expanded from the arrangement of FIG. 9 (i.e., when the second frame 470 is forced linearly away from the first frame 450), the coil spring 476 applies a restoring force onto the second frame 470, biasing the second frame 470 back toward the first frame 450 (or “home” arrangement of FIG. 9). Though not visible in FIG. 9, one or more additional biasing devices can similarly be installed between the first frame 450 and the second frame 470 at other locations.

The control sub-assembly 444 includes an actuator 500, a first line 502, and a second line 504. With additional reference to FIG. 11 that otherwise depicts the control sub-assembly 444 in isolation with the variable gas spring 452, 474, the actuator 500 has a lever-like construction, including an actuator body 510 secured to a bar member 512. A coupling body 514 extends from the bar member 512 at a location spaced from the actuator body 510 and is configured for pivotable mounting to the second frame 470 or other ground body, for example via a pin (not shown) extending through a bore 516 formed in the coupling body 514. The first and second lines 502, 504 are directly connected to the bar member 512. The first line 502 is routed to and operably connected with the control device 456 of the first variable gas spring 452; similarly, the second line 504 is routed to and operably connected with the control device 490 of the second variable gas spring 474.

Upon final assembly, and as generally reflected by FIG. 7, at least the actuator body 510 is exteriorly exposed relative to the housing 410. With additional reference between FIGS. 8A-11, the steering adjustment assembly 420 is configured to naturally assume or revert to the normal or home arrangement illustrated in which a rotational position or arrangement of the actuator 500 relative to the second frame 470 exerts minimal, if any, tension in the lines 502, 504. As a result, in the normal arrangement of the steering adjustment assembly 420, the variable gas springs 452, 474 are in the locked or closed state, and operate to spatially fix the first and second frames 450, 470, and thus the steering component 414, relative to the chassis 412 as described above.

When an operator desires to change a spatial position and/or orientation (or tilt angle) of the steering component 414 relative to the chassis 412, a lifting and/or pulling force is manually applied to the actuator body 510. The so-applied force causes the actuator 500 to pivot or rotate about an axis defined at the bore 516, simultaneously establishing tension in the first and second lines 502, 504 (via movement of the point of connection of the lines 502, 504 with the bar member 512). The tension or pulling force is transmitted by the lines 502, 504 to the corresponding control device 456, 490, thus simultaneously transitioning the first and second lock/release devices 452, 474 to the released or unlocked state. In the released or unlocked state, the first and second lock/release devices 452, 474 do not prevent or impede rotation of the first frame 450 relative to the chassis 412 (and thus corresponding rotation of the second frame 470), and do not prevent or impeded linear translation of the second frame 470 relative to the first frame 450 (and thus relative to the chassis 412). As a result, the operator can readily manipulate the steering component 414 to a desired tilt orientation and telescoping position as described above. Once the desired orientation/position has been achieved, the actuator 500 is returned to the normal or home arrangement, in turn removing tension in the lines 502, 504 such that the first and second lock/release devices 452, 474 transition backed to the locked state.

The steering adjustment assemblies of the present disclosure, and machines such as floor treatment machines incorporating the steering adjustment assemblies, provide a marked improvement over previous designs. The steering adjustment assemblies of the present disclosure simulate a floating steering column with variable positions, allowing an operator to achieve optimal ergonomic steering positions. The single actuator-based designs of the present disclosure provide a simplified operator layout, having a positive impact on the user experience. By reducing complexity and increasing ease of use as compared to prior designs, the steering adjustment assemblies of the present disclosure allow an operator to work more effectively and efficiently.

Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.