SURFACE CLEANING APPARATUS HAVING A SPRAY BAR ASSEMBLY

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure generally relates to a distributor having a spray bar assembly, and more particularly to a spray bar assembly used with an extraction cleaning apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Extraction cleaners can be used for cleaning various types of surfaces, including carpet, upholstery, and other fabric surfaces. Many extraction cleaners include systems for storing and delivering cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes a housing. A base is operably coupled to the housing and configured to engage a surface to be cleaned. A spray bar assembly is in fluid communication with a supply tank. The spray bar assembly includes a cover that defines at least one protrusion and a body coupled to the cover. The body includes at least one fluid inlet in fluid communication with an interior, and at least one fluid outlet is in fluid communication with the interior. A first reservoir is defined within the interior. The first reservoir is disposed between the at least one fluid inlet and the at least one fluid outlet. The at least one protrusion is disposed within the first reservoir to reduce a volume capacity of the first reservoir. A second reservoir is defined within the interior proximate to the first reservoir. A fluid flow path through the spray bar assembly is defined from the at least one fluid inlet, through the first reservoir and the second reservoir, and through the at least one fluid outlet.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes a housing, a supply tank, and a spray bar assembly in fluid communication with the supply tank. The spray bar assembly includes a cover and a body coupled to the cover. The body includes first and second fluid inlets in fluid communication with an interior of the body. Fluid outlets are in fluid communication with the interior. A first reservoir is within the interior. Fluid is configured to be directed from the first and second fluid inlets into the first reservoir. A second reservoir is within the interior and proximate to the first reservoir. The fluid is configured to be directed through the second reservoir to be dispensed via the fluid outlets to an adjacent surface. A dividing wall separates the first reservoir from the second reservoir. At least one opening is defined between the dividing wall and the cover to allow fluid communication between the first reservoir and the second reservoir. A plurality of rib walls is disposed within the first reservoir and configured to disperse the fluid received from the first and second fluid inlets as the fluid flows through the first reservoir to the second reservoir.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a spray bar assembly includes a cover that defines an elongate protrusion that extends along a length thereof. A body defines an interior and is coupled to the cover. The body includes at least one fluid inlet. Fluid outlets are in fluid communication with the at least one fluid inlet. A first reservoir and a second reservoir extend a length of the interior of the body. The elongate protrusion is disposed in the first reservoir. A dividing wall separates the first reservoir from the second reservoir. An elongate opening is defined between the dividing wall and the cover. A flow path through the interior of the body is defined from the at least one fluid inlet, through the first reservoir, through the elongate opening between the dividing wall and the cover, and into the second reservoir to the fluid outlets.

These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an upright cleaning apparatus, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a cleaning apparatus with a fluid delivery system and a suction assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a partial side perspective view of a base of an upright cleaning apparatus with a top surface removed to illustrate a spray bar assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a partial side cross-sectional view of a base of a cleaning apparatus with a spray bar assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a fluid delivery system for a cleaning apparatus, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of a spray bar assembly for a cleaning apparatus, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is an exploded bottom perspective view of a spray bar assembly for a cleaning apparatus, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a body for a spray bar assembly that has multiple reservoirs, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a side cross-sectional view of a body of a spray bar assembly that has three interior reservoirs, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a side perspective cross-sectional view of a body of a spray bar assembly that has three interior reservoirs, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of a body of a spray bar assembly with two interior reservoirs, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of a spray bar assembly with a body with three interior reservoirs and a cover that has a protrusion disposed in one of the interior reservoirs, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view of a spray bar assembly with a body with two interior reservoirs and a cover that has a protrusion disposed in one of the interior reservoirs, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of a spray bar assembly for a cleaning apparatus with two fluid inlets, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a top plan view of a body for a spray bar assembly that has multiple reservoirs with rib walls disposed within one of the reservoirs, according to the present disclosure; and

FIG. 16 is a side perspective cross-sectional view of a body for a spray bar assembly with multiple reservoirs with rib walls disposed within one of the reservoirs, according to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a surface cleaning apparatus having a spray bar assembly. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. 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 a surface closest to an intended viewer, and the term “rear” shall refer to a surface furthest 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 structures 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.

With reference to FIGS. 1-16, reference numeral 10 generally designates a cleaning apparatus 10 that includes a housing 12 and a base 14 coupled to the housing 12. The base 14 is configured to engage a surface to be cleaned or an adjacent surface. A supply tank 16 is configured to store a fluid for use during a cleaning operation. A spray bar assembly 18 is in fluid communication with the supply tank 16. The spray bar assembly 18 includes a cover 20 that defines at least one protrusion 22. The spray bar assembly 18 also includes a body 24 coupled to the cover 20. The body 24 includes at least one fluid inlet 26 in fluid communication with an interior 28 and at least one fluid outlet 30 in fluid communication with the interior 28. The body 24 also includes a first reservoir 32 and a second reservoir 34 each defined within the interior 28. The protrusion 22 is disposed within the first reservoir 32 to reduce a volume capacity of the first reservoir 32. The first reservoir 32 is disposed between the fluid inlet 26 and the fluid outlet 30. The second reservoir 34 is disposed proximate to the first reservoir 32. A fluid flow path 36 through the spray bar assembly 18 is defined from the fluid inlet 26, through the first reservoir 32 and the second reservoir 34, and through the fluid outlet 30.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the spray bar assembly 18 may be included in a variety of cleaning apparatuses 10. In various examples, the cleaning apparatus 10 may be an extraction cleaner often used to clean rugs, carpeting, drapes, and upholstered surfaces. The cleaning apparatus 10 may be configured as an upright cleaning apparatus 10, as illustrated in FIG. 1. The upright cleaning apparatus 10 includes the housing 12 configured as an upright assembly that is rotatably coupled to the base 14 for directing the base 14 across the underlying surface to be cleaned. Often, the upright cleaning apparatus 10 includes a drive assembly to assist the user in maneuvering the upright cleaning apparatus 10 and wheels 50 for engaging the underlying surface to be cleaned. In additional examples, the cleaning apparatus 10 may be configured as a canister device that has a cleaning implement coupled to a wheelbase by a vacuum hose. In non-limiting examples, the cleaning apparatus 10 may be configured as a portable apparatus or portable extractor adapted to be hand-carried by a user.

Each configuration of the cleaning apparatus 10 includes a suction assembly 52 for extracting and storing dispensed fluid and debris materials collected from the surface being cleaned, as well as a liquid or fluid delivery system 54 for storing and delivering the fluid/liquid to the surface being cleaned. The suction assembly 52 and the fluid delivery system 54 may also be referred to as fluid delivery and recovery systems. The suction assembly 52 is configured to direct fluid, such as liquids and air and entrained debris materials, into the housing 12, while the fluid delivery system 54 is configured to direct fluid/liquid out of the housing 12 and onto the surface to be cleaned.

The suction assembly 52 generally includes a suction source 56, such as a motorized fan assembly 56, configured to draw fluid such as air and/or liquids into a recovery container or tank 58 operably coupled with the housing 12. The suction assembly 52 typically operates to produce a suction or vacuum effect to draw fluid and materials from the surface being cleaned and into the recovery tank 58. The motorized fan assembly 56 is electrically coupled to a power source 60, such as a battery, or by a power cord plugged into a household electrical outlet. A suction power switch 62 between the motorized fan assembly 56 and the power source 60 can be selectively closed by the user to activate the motorized fan assembly 56. The suction source 56 is provided in fluid communication with a suction nozzle assembly 64 for generating the vacuum effect and the recovery tank 58 for separating and collecting fluid and debris from a working airstream for later disposal.

Referring still to FIG. 2, as well as FIGS. 3 and 4, the suction nozzle assembly 64 is generally coupled to the base 14 and configured to be moved over or along the surface to be cleaned. An agitator 70 may be disposed adjacent to the suction nozzle assembly 64 for agitating the surface being cleaned, which may be advantageous to more easily adjust the debris materials on the surface into the suction nozzle assembly 64 with the vacuum effect. The agitator 70 may have a variety of configurations, such as, but not limited to, a horizontally rotating brushroll, dual horizontally-rotating brushrolls, at least one vertically-rotating brushroll, a stationary brush, or other similar configurations.

The recovery tank 58 may be selectively removed from housing 12 to dispose of the fluid and debris materials captured by the suction assembly 52 in the recovery tank 58. In various aspects, the cleaning apparatus 10 includes a separator 72 to separate fluid and debris materials from the working airflow for collection. The recovery tank 58 may include the separator 72 configured to guide air and liquid through the recovery tank 58. The separator 72 allows airflow to pass therethrough to the motorized fan assembly 56 to be exhausted while retaining the liquid and debris materials in the recovery tank 58.

Referring still to FIGS. 2-4, the fluid delivery system 54 is configured to direct fluid, such as liquids, out of the housing 12 for use in a cleaning process. The cleaning apparatus 10 includes the supply tank 16 within the housing 12, which is configured to hold and store the liquid. The liquid may be water, a cleaning solution, or a combination thereof. For example, many household extraction cleaning tasks can be performed using water along with or in combination with a liquid cleaning solution that contains surfactants, stabilizers, fragrances, or other active and inactive ingredients. The fluid/liquid can include any practicable cleaning fluid or combination of cleaning fluids including, but not limited to, water compositions, concentrated detergents, diluted detergents, and combinations thereof. The cleaning apparatus 10 may optionally include a heater 74 to warm the liquid that is dispensed.

The fluid delivery system 54 includes a pump 80, a flow control valve 82, and/or other similar features to direct the fluid/liquid out of the supply tank 16 and, consequently, out of the cleaning apparatus 10. The fluid delivery system 54 may include a flow control system 84 with the pump 80, which pressurizes the system, and the flow control valve 82, which controls the delivery of fluid to a distributor 86. The distributor 86 includes the spray bar assembly 18 with the fluid outlet 30 for delivering fluids to the surface to be cleaned. The fluid outlet 30, which may also be referred to as a spray outlet 30, can be positioned to deliver fluid/liquid directly to the surface to be cleaned, or indirectly by delivering fluid onto the agitator 70. In the illustrated configuration, the agitator 70 is configured as two brushrolls, and the fluid outlet 30 is configured to spray the fluid between the brushrolls. The distributor 86 generally includes a conduit 88 that supplies the fluid from the supply tank 16 to the spray bar assembly 18. The conduit 88 may be constructed of flexible and/or rigid sections. Further, the pump 80 may form a portion of the conduit 88.

An actuator 100 can be provided to actuate the flow of liquid of the fluid delivery system 54 and dispense the liquid to the distributor 86. The actuator 100 can be operably coupled to the flow control valve 82 such that pressing the actuator 100 opens the flow control valve 82. Moreover, the flow control valve 82 may be electrically actuated. In such configurations, an electrical switch 102 is disposed between the flow control valve 82 and the power source 60 and is selectively closed when the actuator 100 is pressed, thereby powering the flow control valve 82 to move to an opened position.

According to various aspects, the fluid delivery system 54 may include a second supply tank 104 to store the fluid/liquid. In such examples, the first supply tank 16 may store water and the second supply tank 104 may store a cleaning agent, such as detergent. With multiple supply tanks 16, 104, the flow control system 84 may include a mixing system 106 for controlling the composition of the cleaning fluid that is delivered to the surface to be cleaned.

Referring still to FIGS. 2-4, the composition of the cleaning fluid can be determined by a ratio of cleaning fluids mixed together by the mixing system 106. The mixing system 106 includes a mixing manifold 108 that selectively receives fluid from one or both of the supply tanks 16, 104. A mixing valve 110 is fluidly coupled with the second supply tank 104. When the mixing valve 110 is in an opened state, the fluid from the second supply tank 104 flows through the mixing manifold 108. A size of an opening in the mixing valve 110 and/or a time in the opened state may adjust the composition of the cleaning fluid that is delivered to the surface.

It is contemplated that the flow control system 84 may include a gravity-feed system in lieu of the pump 80. In such examples, the gravity-feed system includes a valve that is fluidly coupled with the supply tanks 16, 104. When the valve is in the opened condition, the fluid flows from the supply tanks 16, 104 to the distributor 86 in response to gravitational forces. The valve may be mechanically actuated or electrically actuated.

Referring still to FIG. 4, the suction nozzle assembly 64 includes opposing walls 120, 122 (e.g., a front wall 120 and a rear wall 122) that define a narrow suction pathway 124 therebetween with an opening that forms a suction inlet 126. The suction pathway 124 is in fluid communication with a recovery airflow conduit 128, which leads to the recovery tank 58. In at least one aspect, the spray bar assembly 18 may be coupled to or carried by the suction nozzle assembly 64. For example, the cover 20 of the spray bar assembly 18 may be integrally formed with one of the walls 120, 122 of the suction nozzle assembly 64, such as the rear wall 122. In another example, the cover 20 of the spray bar assembly 18 may be coupled with the rear wall 122. In this way, the suction nozzle assembly 64 forms a portion of the spray bar assembly 18 and may be removable with the suction nozzle assembly 64. According to another aspect, the spray bar assembly 18 may be separate from the suction nozzle assembly 64 and may be coupled to the base 14 directly or through another component.

The base 14 may also include an agitator assembly 136 with an agitator housing 138 that defines a chamber for the agitator 70. The agitator housing 138 may also be referred to as an agitator cover or brushroll cover. In various aspects, the spray bar assembly 18 may be coupled to or carried by the agitator housing 138. In various aspects, the cover 20 of the spray bar assembly 18 may be integrally formed with the agitator housing 138, as illustrated in FIG. 4, or coupled with the agitator housing 138. In this way, the agitator housing 138 forms a portion of the spray bar assembly 18, and the spray bar assembly 18 may be removable with the agitator housing 138. According to another aspect, the suction nozzle assembly 64 and the agitator housing 138 are removable from the base 14 as a single component. In some examples, the spray bar assembly 18 may be coupled with the suction nozzle assembly 64 and the agitator housing 138 such that all three components are removable from the base 14 as a single component.

Referring to FIG. 5, in the fluid delivery system 54, the supply tank 16 is coupled to a connector 140 that feeds the pump 80, which directs the fluid/liquid to the spray bar assembly 18. The flow control system 84 may include a valve 142 and a flow controller 144, which permits varied flow rates of fluid to operate the cleaning apparatus 10 in multiple modes of operation, including a high-flow mode, a medium-flow mode, and a low-flow mode.

The flow controller 144 includes a valve body 150 with an inlet 152, a first outlet 154, and a second outlet 156. A valve piston 158 is slidingly coupled with the second outlet 156. The valve piston 158 is adjustable between a fully opened position, a partially opened position, and a closed position. The fully opened position corresponds with the high-flow mode, the partially opened position corresponds with the medium-flow mode, and the closed position corresponds with the low-flow mode.

The cleaning apparatus 10 has a Y-connector 166 that couples the valve 142 and the flow controller 144 with the spray bar assembly 18. The Y-connector 166 includes a high-flow arm 168 and a low-flow arm 170, which are each coupled to and in fluid communication with an outlet 172 of the Y-connector 166. The high-flow arm 168 is coupled to the first outlet 154 of the flow controller 144, and the low-flow arm 170 is coupled to the second outlet 156 of the flow controller 144. The flow controller 144 is adjustable relative to the Y-connector 166 to adjust the volume of fluid directed to the spray bar assembly 18.

Referring still to FIG. 5, the cleaning apparatus 10 may be operated in various modes of operations to change the volume of fluid to the surface to be cleaned. Different surfaces or different areas to be cleaned may utilize different volumes of water/liquids. When the cleaning apparatus 10 is operated in a high-flow mode of operation, the fluid is directed through the high-flow arm 168 and the low-flow arm 170 to the spray bar assembly 18 via the outlet 172. When the cleaning apparatus 10 is operated in a medium-flow mode of operation, fluid is directed through the Y-connector 166 through the high-flow arm 168 and the low-flow arm 170. In the medium-flow mode of operation, less volume of fluid flows from the first outlet 154 of the flow controller 144 to the high-flow arm 168 compared to the high-flow mode of operation. In the medium-flow mode, the fluid flows through an opening in the valve piston 158 which is reduced in size compared to the second outlet 156 before flowing through the second outlet 156.

In a low-flow mode of operation, fluid enters the Y-connector 166 through the low-flow arm 170 but a fluid flow may be minimized or prevented by the valve piston 158 from entering high-flow arm 168. Of the three modes of operation, the low-flow mode of operation provides the smallest volume of fluid to the spray bar.

The fluid is directed through the Y-connector 166 to the spray bar assembly 18, which is operably coupled within the base 14 of the cleaning apparatus 10. The spray bar assembly 18 is configured to direct fluid from the Y-connector 166, through the interior 28 of the spray bar assembly 18, and to the surface to be cleaned or the agitators 70.

Referring to FIGS. 6-8, the spray bar assembly 18 is included in the cleaning apparatus 10 to direct the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned. The spray bar assembly 18 may be permanently or removably carried by the suction nozzle assembly 64, the agitator housing 138, and/or the base 14. The spray bar assembly 18 includes the cover 20 and the body 24. The spray bar assembly 18 includes at least one fluid inlet 26 for receiving the cleaning fluid and at least one fluid outlet 30 for dispensing or spraying the cleaning fluid toward the surface to be cleaned. Generally, the spray bar assembly 18 has multiple fluid outlets 30 for dispersing the cleaning fluid across the surface to be cleaned while minimizing wet spots on the surface being cleaned.

The body 24 defines the interior 28 through which the fluid is directed, and the cover 20 is configured to at least substantially enclose the interior 28. The spray bar assembly 18 is an elongated structure that generally extends across the base 14 of the cleaning apparatus 10. This elongated configuration may be advantageous for providing fluid to the surface to be cleaned along the width of the base 14, providing a more even distribution of the liquid and broader coverage of the surface being cleaned.

The cover 20 may include connectors 180 on each end 182, 184, which may be configured to engage with mating components within the cleaning apparatus 10 to couple the spray bar assembly 18 to the cleaning apparatus 10. The cover 20 includes an inner surface 186 oriented toward an engagement wall 188 of the body 24 to enclose the interior 28 defined by the body 24 to retain the fluid/liquid within the spray bar assembly 18. In various aspects, the cover 20 includes or defines a groove 194 on the inner surface 186 thereof. The groove 194 may be recessed into the inner surface 186 and/or may be defined by between walls extending from the inner surface 186. The groove 194 may house a seal for sealing the engagement between the cover 20 and the body 24. When the cover 20 is coupled to the body 24, the groove 194 extends along a perimeter of an opening into the interior 28 of the body 24. In various examples, the body 24 may include a rim that is received within the groove 194 to assist with coupling the cover 20 to the body 24.

The cover 20 defines at least one protrusion 22 that extends along at least a portion of the length (i.e., from the first end 182 to the second end 184) thereof. In the illustrated configuration, the cover 20 includes a single elongate protrusion 22 that extends within an area defined by the groove 194. The protrusion 22 extends a majority of a distance from the first end 182 of the cover 20 to the second end 184 of the cover 20. When the cover 20 is coupled to the body 24, the protrusion 22 is disposed within the interior 28 of the body 24 above or corresponding to the first reservoir 32 and extends a majority of a distance between a first end 196 and a second end 198 of the body 24. In non-limiting examples, the elongate protrusion 22 has a length in a range from about 20 cm to about 25 cm and a width in a range from about 4 mm to about 7 mm.

In additional non-limiting examples, the cover 20 may include multiple protrusions 22. The protrusions 22 may be linearly aligned to form a single row of protrusions 22. Alternatively, the protrusions 22 may be staggered, in stepped configurations, in alternating configurations, etc. along the length of the inner surface 186 of the cover 20 and/or along the depth/width of the cover 20. The multiple protrusions 22 may decrease the volume capacity of the first reservoir 32. The multiple protrusions 22 may also assist with the fluid flow path 36 through the first reservoir 32. For example, the configuration of the multiple protrusions 22 may assist with dispersing the fluid along the length of the first reservoir 32.

According to various aspects, a channel 202 is defined in an outer surface 204 of the cover 20 and extends into the protrusion 22 to form a generally hollow protrusion 22. The protrusion 22 defines a “U” shape with the channel 202 centrally located within the protrusion 22 (see also FIG. 13). The size of the channel 202 is generally based on the size of the protrusion 22 or protrusions 22. In the illustrated example, the channel 202 has a width between about 2 mm to about 4 mm. The hollow configuration may be advantageous for maximizing efficiency of the manufacturing process. It is contemplated that the protrusion 22 may be a solid component without departing the teachings herein.

Referring still to FIGS. 6-8, the body 24 is coupled to the cover 20 through an engagement between coupling projections 210 on the body 24 and receiving features 212 on the cover 20. The body 24 of the spray bar assembly 18 includes a support wall 214 that extends to the engagement wall 188, generally forming an “L”-shaped configuration. The coupling projections 210 extend generally parallel to the support wall 214 and through the engagement wall 188. The coupling projections 210 protrude from a surface of the engagement wall 188 on opposing sides of the opening into the interior 28 to engage the receiving features 212. In various examples, the engagement between the coupling projections 210 and the receiving features 212 may be a snap engagement or an interference fit to assist with coupling the cover 20 to the body 24.

With reference now to FIGS. 9 and 10, the spray bar assembly 18 is configured to receive the fluid from the Y-connector 166 (FIG. 5). The fluid inlet 26 extends through the support wall 214 to engage the Y-connector 166 and provide fluid communication with the interior 28 of the body 24. The body 24 defines multiple reservoirs 32, 34, 220 within the interior 28. The reservoirs 32, 34, 220 are in fluid communication with one another and are arranged in sequence. The first reservoir 32 is defined on a first side of the body 24 adjacent to the fluid inlet 26 and the support wall 214. The first reservoir 32 may also be referred to as an initial reservoir 32. The second reservoir 34 is on an opposing side of the body 24 relative to the initial reservoir 32. The second reservoir 34 is disposed adjacent to and coupled to the fluid outlets 30. Accordingly, the second reservoir 34 may also be referred to as an outlet reservoir 34. In various aspects, the body 24 includes the initial reservoir 32 adjacent to the outlet reservoir 34, without the presence of the third reservoir 220 (see FIGS. 11 and 13).

In additional or alternative configurations, the body 24 may also define a third reservoir 220, which is disposed between the initial reservoir 32 and the outlet reservoir 34. The third reservoir 220 may also be referred to as a middle reservoir 220. Each of the reservoirs 32, 34, 220 extends from the first end 196 to the second end 198 of the body 24 to extend across the length of the open interior 28. Moreover, the reservoirs 32, 34, 220 are arranged parallel to one another within the body 24.

The initial reservoir 32 is defined between a dividing wall 224 and a guide portion 226 of the body 24. The initial reservoir 32 is in direct fluid communication with the fluid inlet 26, where an inlet passage 228 of the fluid inlet 26 extends through the guide portion 226. In the illustrated configuration, the guide portion 226 has a chamfered corner 230 proximate to the inlet passage 228. Generally, as the fluid is directed out of the inlet passage 228 and into the initial reservoir 32, the fluid may flow along the guide portion 226. The chamfered corner 230 may promote laminar flow and reduce turbulence of the fluid within the initial reservoir 32.

The initial reservoir 32 has a volume capacity for holding fluid therein. The fluid is temporarily housed within the initial reservoir 32 and then passes along the dividing wall 224 to the middle reservoir 220. The size and volume capacity of the first reservoir 32 may vary based on the cleaning apparatus 10 and the volume of fluid for various cleaning processes. In the illustrated configuration, the initial reservoir 32 has a depth between about 4 mm and about 10 mm and a width between about 5 mm and about 15 mm.

Referring still to FIGS. 9 and 10, the dividing wall 224 forms a partial boundary for the initial reservoir 32 to separate the initial reservoir 32 from the middle reservoir 220. The dividing wall 224 extends at least a majority of the distance between the first end 196 of the body 24 and the second end 198 of the body 24 and, consequently, extends along at least a majority of the length of the open interior 28. The dividing wall 224 may have a height in a range between about 3 mm and about 10 mm, and a length between about 20 cm to about 25 cm. The dividing wall 224 generally extends above the upper surface of the engagement wall 188 to protrude toward the inner surface 186 of the cover 20.

The dividing wall 224 extends toward the cover 20 but generally does not abut the inner surface 186 (see FIGS. 12 and 13). Accordingly, at least one opening 240 (see FIGS. 12 and 13) is defined between the dividing wall 224 and the inner surface 186 of the cover 20, providing a path for the fluid from the initial reservoir 32 to the middle reservoir 220. In the illustrated configuration, the opening 240 is an elongate opening 240 that extends a majority of the length of the dividing wall 224 or the distance between the first end 196 of the body 24 and the second end 198. The opening 240 generally has a height or distance between the dividing wall 224 and the cover 20, which is generally less than 2 mm.

In various aspects, the cover 20 and the dividing wall 224 may define multiple openings 240 along the length of the interior 28. In various examples, the cover 20 may include baffles that extend from the inner surface 186. The baffles may abut or overlap with the dividing wall 224 to separate the single opening 240 into multiple smaller openings 240. In additional non-limiting examples, the dividing wall 224 may have varying heights. In such examples, portions of the dividing wall 224 abut the inner surface 186 of the cover 20, while other portions of the dividing wall 224 are spaced from the inner surface 186 to form multiple openings 240.

The fluid inlet 26 is off-center along a length of the body 24 (see FIG. 8). Accordingly, the fluid is directed into the initial reservoir 32 closer to the second end 198 than the first end 196. The height of the dividing wall 224 allows the fluid volume within the initial reservoir 32 to increase and disperse along the length of the initial reservoir 32 before flowing along or over the dividing wall 224 into the middle reservoir 220, providing more even dispersion and flow of the fluid from the initial reservoir 32 to the middle reservoir 220. The height of the dividing wall 224 and/or the single elongate opening 240 promotes a more even distribution of the fluid from the initial reservoir 32 to the middle reservoir 220 along the length of the spray bar assembly 18.

The dividing wall 224 includes a step 242 which may partially define the middle reservoir 220. The step 242 may assist in guiding and dispersing the fluid that flows past or over the dividing wall 224 and into the middle reservoir 220. The middle reservoir 220 generally has a substantially similar depth relative to the engagement wall 188 as the initial reservoir 32. The two reservoirs 32, 220 assist in dispersing the fluid along the length of the spray bar assembly 18 before reaching the fluid outlets 30 as described herein. The size and volume capacity of the middle reservoir 220 may vary based on the cleaning apparatus 10 and the volume of fluid for various cleaning processes. In the illustrated configuration, the middle reservoir 220 has a depth between about 4 mm and about 10 mm and a width less than about 2 mm.

Referring still to FIGS. 9 and 10, the middle reservoir 220 is bound between the dividing wall 224 and a grooved wall 246. The grooved wall 246 extends parallel to the dividing wall 224 and extends a majority of a distance between the first end 196 and the second end 198 of the body 24. The grooved wall 246 generally extends a same length as the dividing wall 224. The grooved wall 246 defines grooves 248 spaced along a length thereof with projections 250 defined between adjacent grooves 248. The grooved wall 246 defines two heights, with a first height at the grooves 248 and a second height at the projections 250. In the illustrated example, the first height is between about 0.5 mm and about 2 mm, which is less than the second height. The second height is between about 0.5 mm and about 1.5 mm greater than the first height. It is also contemplated that the first height may vary along the length of the body 24 to promote the fluid flow along the grooves 248.

The height difference of the grooves 248 relative to the projections 250 is configured to promote fluid flowing through the grooves 248 into the outlet reservoir 34. As the fluid flows past the dividing wall 224, the fluid is temporarily collected within the middle reservoir 220. As the fluid is dispersed along the length of the dividing wall 224, the fluid also collects more evenly along the length of the middle reservoir 220. Accordingly, the fluid is configured to flow through the grooves 248 evenly along the length of the grooved wall 246 to the outlet reservoir 34.

The illustrated example includes multiple grooves 248 spaced along the grooved wall 246. Each of the illustrated grooves 248 is a substantially similar size, having a length between about 5 mm and about 10 mm. The grooves 248 may have different sizes along the length of the body 24. Moreover, it is also contemplated that a single groove 248 may be utilized. Further, it is contemplated that the wall 246 separating the middle reservoir 220 from the outlet reservoir 34 may have a single height, omitting the grooves 248.

The outlet reservoir 34 is bound on opposing sides by a guiding portion 258, which partially defines and/or is integrally formed with the grooved wall 246, and a sidewall 260 which extends at an oblique angle from the engagement wall 188. The guiding portion 258 extends normal to the engagement wall 188, and the sidewall 260 extends toward the guiding portion 258. In this way, the outlet reservoir 34 narrows from proximate the engagement wall 188 to proximate the fluid outlets 30. The narrowing configuration with the angled sidewall 260 assists in directing the fluid toward the fluid outlets 30 and reducing pooling of fluid within the outlet reservoir 34. The size and volume capacity of the outlet reservoir 34 may vary based on the cleaning apparatus 10 and volume of fluid for various cleaning processes. In the illustrated configuration, the outlet reservoir 34 has a depth between about 1 cm and about 3 cm and a width between about 2 mm and about 5 mm, with the width narrowing gradually from the engagement wall 188 to the fluid outlets 30.

Referring still to FIGS. 9 and 10, the outlet reservoir 34 includes the guiding portion 258, which partially forms the grooved wall 246 and extends toward the fluid outlets 30. Guide rims 262 extend along the guiding portion 258 and are aligned with the projections 250, while arced surfaces 264 are defined along the guiding portion 258 and aligned with the grooves 248. The guide rims 262 and arced surfaces 264 form flow channels along the guiding portion 258 to the fluid outlets 30.

The fluid outlets 30 extend from the outlet reservoir 34. Each fluid outlet 30 defines an outlet passage 270 for spraying the fluid from the outlet reservoir 34 onto the surface to be cleaned. When the cleaning apparatus 10 (FIG. 1) is used to clean an underlying floor surface, the fluid outlets 30 are defined at the bottom of the outlet reservoir 34. However, the pressure or speed of the fluid through the spray bar assembly 18 may allow the fluid to be sprayed toward horizontal and vertical surfaces to be cleaned.

The fluid outlets 30 are arranged in a linear pattern along the length of the body 24. Providing a more even distribution of fluid to the outlet reservoir 34 allows the fluid to be sprayed out of the fluid outlets 30 more evenly along the length of the spray bar assembly 18. Accordingly, the more even distribution of fluid between the reservoirs 32, 34, 220 to the fluid outlets 30 results in a more even distribution of the fluid to the surface to be cleaned, thereby enhancing the cleaning process. This configuration also provides a more even fluid distribution in a shorter amount of time. In this way, the user presses the actuator 100 fewer times to provide the even distribution of fluid to the surface to be cleaned.

Referring still to FIGS. 9 and 10, the fluid flow path 36 through the spray bar assembly 18 is defined from the fluid inlet 26 to the fluid outlets 30, with the fluid being dispersed along the length of the spray bar assembly 18 as the fluid flows through the interior 28. The fluid is directed from the Y-connector 166 (FIG. 5) and through the fluid inlet 26 to the initial reservoir 32. The fluid is collected within the initial reservoir 32 until the fluid reaches the volume level to pass along the dividing wall 224. The fluid flows along the dividing wall 224 and into the middle reservoir 220, where the fluid is again collected. The fluid is collected in the middle reservoir 220 until the fluid reaches a volume level to flow past the grooves 248 in the grooved wall 246. The fluid flows along the arced surfaces 264 of the guiding portion 258 in the outlet reservoir 34 and to the fluid outlets 30. The fluid is then sprayed through the fluid outlets 30 and onto the surface to be cleaned.

Referring now to FIG. 11, in various aspects, the spray bar assembly 18 includes the initial reservoir 32 adjacent to the outlet reservoir 34, with the middle reservoir 220 being omitted. The spray bar assembly 18 of FIG. 11 is similar to that of FIGS. 9 and 10 difference generally being the absence of the middle reservoir 220. In such examples, the dividing wall 224 extends between and separates the initial reservoir 32 from the outlet reservoir 34. The fluid passes along the dividing wall 224 through the elongate opening 240 and along the guiding portion 258 to the fluid outlets 30. The guiding portion 258 may define arced surfaces 264 to form flow channels or may be flat. The guiding portion 258 may also include the step 242. Further, in some examples where the middle reservoir 220 is omitted, the spray bar assembly 18 may have a smaller width. Alternatively, the width of the spray bar assembly 18 may remain the same and either one or both of the initial reservoir 32 and the outlet reservoir 34 may be larger. In examples where the outlet reservoir 34 is wider, the guiding portion 258 may be sloped or may include a chamfered corner to guide the fluid toward the fluid outlets 30.

The height of the dividing wall 224 allows the fluid to collect in the initial reservoir 32 and be more evenly distributed along the length of the initial reservoir 32 and, consequently, to flow more evenly past the dividing wall 224 along the length of the spray bar assembly 18. Accordingly, the more even distribution along the dividing wall 224 into the outlet reservoir 34 results in even distribution within the outlet reservoir 34 and, consequently, the fluid outlets 30. The dispersion of the fluid in the initial reservoir 32 allows the optional removal of the middle reservoir 220, which may decrease the time taken for the fluid to flow from the fluid inlet 26 to the fluid outlets 30. Decreased time for the fluid to reach the surface to be cleaned may enhance the cleaning process experience for the user.

Referring still to FIG. 11, the fluid flow path 36 through the spray bar assembly 18 is defined from the fluid inlet 26 to the fluid outlets 30, with the fluid being dispersed along the length of the spray bar assembly 18. The fluid is directed from the Y-connector 166 (FIG. 5), through the fluid inlet 26, and to the initial reservoir 32. The fluid is collected within the initial reservoir 32 until the fluid reaches the volume level to pass along the dividing wall 224. The fluid flows along the dividing wall 224 and into the outlet reservoir 34. The fluid is then sprayed through the fluid outlets 30 and onto the surface to be cleaned. The fluid flow path 36 through the initial reservoir 32 and past the dividing wall 224 of the spray bar assembly 18 of FIG. 11 is similar to that described above with respect to FIGS. 9 and 10.

With reference now to FIGS. 12 and 13, the elongate protrusion 22 or multiple protrusions 22 of the cover 20 may be used in combination with the dividing wall 224. When the cover 20 is coupled to the body 24, the protrusion 22 is disposed within the initial reservoir 32, reducing the volume capacity of the initial reservoir 32. The reduced volume capacity caused by the protrusion 22 being positioned in the interior 28 of the body 24 reduces the amount of fluid to be collected or held in the initial reservoir 32 before the fluid passes through the elongate opening 240. With the protrusion 22, the fluid is directed into the initial reservoir 32 from the fluid inlet 26, being dispersed along the length thereof as the fluid collects around the protrusion 22. The reduction in volume capacity may vary based on the cleaning apparatus 10 and the volume of fluid for various cleaning processes.

The fluid path within the initial reservoir 32 extends around the protrusion 22 to the elongate opening 240 between the dividing wall 224 on the cover 20. Accordingly, the size and shape of the fluid flow path 36 may vary based on the configurations of the cleaning apparatus 10 and spray bar assembly 18. In configurations with the single elongate protrusion 22, the width of the elongate protrusion 22 may be at least half a width of the first reservoir 32 to reduce the volume capacity of the initial reservoir 32. In such examples, the fluid flow path 36 around the protrusion 22 (e.g., between the surface of the protrusion 22 and the surface of the initial reservoir 32) has a width between about 1 mm and about 2.5 mm. The collection of fluid reaches the fluid volume to pass along the dividing wall 224 quicker, shortening the time taken for the fluid to be directed from the initial reservoir 32 to the middle reservoir 220 (when present, as illustrated in FIG. 12) and/or the outlet reservoir 34 (in the absence of the middle reservoir 220, as illustrated in FIG. 13) and, consequently, to the fluid outlets 30. This configuration reduces the time from the actuation of the actuator 100 (FIG. 2) to when the fluid is directed to the surface to be cleaned, which may provide an enhanced cleaning process experience for the user.

Further, the reduced volume capacity may be advantageous for reducing the fluid that remains within the spray bar assembly 18 after the cleaning process is complete. In various examples, the fluid may be retained within the spray bar assembly 18 or emptied from the spray bar assembly 18 to remove fluid that may remain within the spray bar assembly 18 at the end of the cleaning process. The reduced volume capacity reduces the amount of fluid that may remain within the spray bar assembly 18 at the end of a cleaning process. The protrusion 22 also reduces the amount of fluid that may be retained within the initial reservoir 32 after the cleaning process is complete, which improves the user experience by reducing dripping from the spray bar assembly 18 during transport of the cleaning apparatus 10.

Referring still to FIGS. 12 and 13, the protrusion 22 may also be advantageous for controlling the fluid that is expelled from the fluid inlet 26. The protrusion 22 is at least partially aligned with the opening to the inlet passage 228. The protrusion 22 is configured to slow the fluid that is directed into the initial reservoir 32, which reduces or prevents a “gushing” effect that can occur. This “gushing” effect can direct the fluid from the inlet passage 228 toward the dividing wall 224, which can cause turbulence within the initial reservoir 32. The protrusion 22 may reduce or stop any “gushing” effect by instead directing the fluid along the guide portion 226 and around the protrusion 22, thus promoting more laminar fluid flow. The protrusion 22 configuration may be used with the three reservoirs 32, 34, 220 or may be used with the configuration with two reservoirs 32, 34. Moreover, with the off-center position of the fluid inlet 26, the protrusion 22, and/or the dividing wall 224 assist in more evenly distributing the fluid along the length of the spray bar assembly 18.

Referring to FIGS. 14-16, an additional or alternative configuration of a spray bar assembly 318 is illustrated, which includes a body 324 that can be used with the cover 20. The spray bar assembly 318 of FIGS. 14-16 is similar to that of FIGS. 9-10 and FIG. 11, except for some differences such as the inclusion of multiple fluid inlets 326A, 326B, such as a first fluid inlet 326A and a second fluid inlet 326B spaced apart from one another. The fluid delivery system 54 may utilize a different connector rather than the Y-connector 166 (FIG. 5) to direct the fluid to the two fluid inlets 326A, 326B. The connector may be an “H” shape having two outlets 172, or the Y-connector 166 may be used and the fluid may be divided further downstream. Fluid is configured to flow through the fluid inlets 326A, 326B to an interior 328 to fluid outlets 330. The body 324 includes at least an initial reservoir 332 and an outlet reservoir 334, and may also include the middle reservoir 220 without departing from the teachings herein. A fluid flow path 336 is defined through the fluid inlets 326A, 326B, the two reservoirs 332, 334, and through the fluid outlets 330 to the surface being cleaned. In this configuration, the first fluid inlet 326A is spaced from a first end 396 by a distance that is substantially similar to a distance between the second fluid inlet 326B and a second end 398, promoting a more even distribution of the fluid entering the initial reservoir 332.

The spray bar assembly 318 includes a plurality of rib walls 400 disposed within the initial reservoir 332. In the illustrated configuration, the rib walls 400 extend from the body 324 toward the cover 20. In such examples, the rib walls 400 may extend from a bottom surface of the first reservoir 332 and be spaced from the cover 20 or extend to abut the inner surface 186 of the cover 20. It is also contemplated that the rib walls 400 may extend from the cover 20 toward the body 324 without departing from the teachings herein. In such examples, the rib walls 400 may be spaced from the body 324 or may extend to abut the body 324 within the initial reservoir 332.

The rib walls 400 are configured to disperse the fluid from the fluid inlets 326A, 326B along the length of the initial reservoir 332 as the fluid flows in the initial reservoir 332 and through the initial reservoir 332 to the outlet reservoir 334. In the illustrated configuration, the rib walls 400 are arranged in two groupings 402, 404 with the first grouping 402 aligned with the first fluid inlet 326A and the second grouping 404 aligned with the second fluid inlet 326B. In this way, the fluid from each fluid inlet 326A,326B is dispersed along the length of the initial reservoir 332. In various aspects, each grouping 402, 404 is centered relative to the respective fluid inlet 326A, 326B. In such aspects, a center point for each grouping 402, 404 is disposed directly between a dividing wall 424 (FIG. 15) and a respective inlet passage 428A, 428B or a grooved wall 446 (FIG. 16) and the respective inlet passage 428A, 428B. In additional examples, each grouping 402, 404 is symmetrical relative to the respective fluid inlet 326A, 326B. In further non-limiting examples, the groupings 402, 404 are aligned with the fluid inlets 326A, 326B by having at least one rib wall 400 from the respective groupings 402, 404 that is disposed directly between the inlet passage 428A, 428B and the dividing wall 424.

The alignment between the groupings 402, 404 of the rib walls 400 and the fluid inlets 326A, 326B may depend on the configuration of the rib walls 400 in each grouping 402, 404. As illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, the two groupings 402, 404 are disposed in “V”-shaped arrangements and are narrower proximate to the respective fluid inlet 326A, 326B, and wider proximate to the dividing wall 424. The rib walls 400 may be disposed in any practicable configuration within the initial reservoir 332 that promotes dispersion of the fluid along the length of the initial reservoir 332. For example, the rib walls 400 may be disposed in stepped arrangements, diagonal arrangements, linear arrangements, zig-zag arrangements, tiered arrangements, or combinations thereof.

Moreover, the rib walls 400 may have different orientations within the initial reservoir 332. In the illustrated configuration, the rib walls 400 are arranged parallel to the dividing wall 424 and normal to the direction the fluid is inserted into the initial reservoir 332. The rib walls 400 may be arranged at any angle relative to the dividing wall 424 and fluid insertion direction for dispersing the fluid. For example, obliquely angled rib walls 400 may promote fluid dispersion while reducing turbulence in the initial reservoir 332.

Referring still to FIGS. 15 and 16, in the illustrated configurations, the rib walls 400 are linear with flat opposing surfaces. The rib walls 400 may have any practicable cross-sectional shape, such as but not limited to arced shapes, semi-circular shapes, circular shapes, cylindrical shapes, triangular shapes, pyramidal shapes, conical shapes, frusto-conical shapes, any other practicable shape, or combinations thereof. Based on the location of the rib wall 400 within the initial reservoir 332, different rib walls 400 may have different shapes, heights, orientations, etc. to disperse the fluid within the initial reservoir 332. For example, in the tiered “V” arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, the rib walls 400 in each tier may have different lengths and/or different heights to promote the dispersion of the fluid.

The rib walls 400 may reduce the volume capacity of the initial reservoir 332 similar to the protrusion 22 on the cover 20. Having two fluid inlets 326A, 326B may increase the fluid flow into the interior 328. Alternatively, the same amount of fluid as one fluid inlet 26—(FIGS. 3-13) may be inserted via two fluid inlets 326A, 326B to better disperse or more evenly disperse the fluid entering the interior 328. The two inlets 326A, 326B may be located generally equidistant to the respective end 396, 398 to more evenly distribute the liquid as it enters the interior 328. The volume of fluid to be collected in the initial reservoir 332 may be reduced by the rib walls 400 to shorten the time from initial insertion into the spray bar assembly 318 to being sprayed or expelled from the spray bar assembly 318.

The spray bar assembly 318 illustrated in FIGS. 14-16 is utilized with the cover 20 to enclose the interior 328 of the body 324. In various examples, the cover 20 has a flat inner surface 186. In additional examples, the rib walls 400 may extend from the inner surface 186 of the cover 20, rather than a bottom surface of the initial reservoir 332. In further non-limiting examples, the cover 20 may include the protrusion 22, which is configured to extend between rib walls 400 to further reduce the volume capacity of the initial reservoir 332.

In the illustrated configurations, the spray bar assembly 318 includes the initial reservoir 332, and the outlet reservoir 334, with the middle reservoir 220 being omitted. Further, the spray bar assembly 318 of FIGS. 14-16 can include the grooved wall 446 and the dividing wall 424 is omitted or the dividing wall 424 and grooved wall 446 may be omitted. The flow path 336 through the spray bar assembly 318 is defined from the fluid inlets 326A, 326B to the fluid outlets 330, with the fluid being dispersed along the length of the spray bar assembly 318 as the fluid flows through the interior 328. The fluid dispensed from the first and second fluid inlets 326A, 326B and is collected within the first reservoir 332 until the fluid reaches the volume level to pass along the dividing wall 424 or the grooved wall 446. With the grooved wall 446, the fluid flows past grooves 448 and between projections 450 in the grooved wall 446. The fluid flows along a guiding portion 458 in the outlet reservoir 334 and to the fluid outlets 330. The fluid is then sprayed through the fluid outlets 330 and onto the surface to be cleaned. It is also contemplated that the middle reservoir 220 may be included, which results in the fluid being directed from the initial reservoir 332 through the middle reservoir 220 and to the outlet reservoir 34. In such examples, both the dividing wall 424 and the grooved wall 446 may be included in the spray bar assembly 318.

With reference again to FIGS. 1-16, in operation, fluid is added to the supply tank 16 or tanks 16, 104. The added fluid is generally a cleaning fluid that is selectively delivered to the surface to be cleaned. The agitator 70 can simultaneously agitate the cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned and debris material to be captured in the working airstream. During operation of the suction assembly 52, the cleaning apparatus 10 draws in fluid using the vacuum effect through the suction nozzle assembly 64 and into the recovery tank 58 where the debris is separated from the airflow. The airflow passes through the motorized fan assembly 56 and is exhausted from the cleaning apparatus 10.

The cleaning fluid is delivered to the surface via the fluid delivery system 54 by user activation of the actuator 100 as the cleaning apparatus 10 moves back and forth over the surface. The fluid is directed from the supply tank 16, through the cleaning apparatus 10, and to the spray bar assembly 18, 318, which sprays or dispenses the cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned and/or onto the brushrolls 70. The spray bar assembly 18, 318 is configured to disperse the fluid from the fluid inlet 26 or the first and second fluid inlets 326A, 326B along a length thereof, utilizing the dividing wall 224, 424, the single elongate opening 240, the grooved wall 246, 446, the protrusion 22 of the cover 20, and/or the rib walls 400. The dispersion of the fluid within the spray bar assembly 18, 318 promotes even distribution of the fluid to the fluid outlets 30, 330 and, consequently, to the surface to be cleaned.

Delivery of the fluid to the surface is evenly distributed along the length of the spray bar assembly 18, 318 based on the configuration of the spray bar assembly 18, 318. Moreover, the spray bar assembly 18, 318 may reduce the time from the actuation of the actuator 100 to the spraying of the fluid outlets 30, 330. The spray bar assembly 18, 318 may include the protrusion 22 to reduce volume capacity, include the rib walls 400 to reduce volume capacity, and/or omit the middle reservoir 220 to promote faster spraying of the fluid on the surface. The configurations of the spray bar assembly 18, 318 set forth herein may promote a more even dispersion of the cleaning fluid and/or faster time to apply the cleaning fluid to the surface being cleaned upon actuation of the actuator 100, thus enhancing the cleaning process for the user.

Use of the present device may provide for a variety of advantages. For example, the spray bar assembly 18, 318 may include the dividing wall 224, 424 that extends beyond the engagement wall 188 to define the elongate opening 240 for the fluid path. Additionally, the height of the dividing wall 224, 424 promotes a more even distribution of the fluid passing along the dividing wall 224, 424 as the fluid collects in the first reservoir 32, 332. Moreover, the single elongate opening 240 defined between the dividing wall 224, 424 and the cover 20 promotes a more even flow of the fluid from the first reservoir 32, 332 to the subsequent reservoirs 34, 220, 332. Also, the cover 20 may include the protrusion 22 configured to be disposed within the first reservoir 32, 332 to reduce the volume capacity within the first reservoir 32, 332. Further, the reduction in volume capacity reduces the volume of fluid to be supplied into the first reservoir 332 before flowing past the dividing wall 224, 424. Moreover, the reduction in volume reduces the amount of fluid that may be retained within the spray bar assembly 18, 318 after the cleaning process is complete. Additionally, the spray bar assembly 18, 318 may be utilized with two fluid inlets 326A, 326B, and the rib walls 400 aligned with the fluid inlets 326A, 326B to disperse the fluid along the length of the spray bar assembly 18. Additional benefits or advantages may be realized and/or achieved.

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

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes a housing. A base is operably coupled to the housing and configured to engage a surface to be cleaned. A spray bar assembly is in fluid communication with a supply tank. The spray bar assembly includes a cover that defines at least one protrusion and a body coupled to the cover. The body includes at least one fluid inlet in fluid communication with an interior, and at least one fluid outlet is in fluid communication with the interior. A first reservoir is defined within the interior. The first reservoir is disposed between the at least one fluid inlet and the at least one fluid outlet. The at least one protrusion is disposed within the first reservoir to reduce a volume capacity of the first reservoir. A second reservoir is defined within the interior proximate to the first reservoir. A fluid flow path through the spray bar assembly is defined from the at least one fluid inlet, through the first reservoir and the second reservoir, and through the at least one fluid outlet.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a body further includes a dividing wall within an interior to separate a first reservoir from a second reservoir. An elongate opening is defined between a cover and the dividing wall.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an elongate opening extends a majority of a distance between a first end of a body and a second end of the body.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a fluid flow path through a spray bar assembly is defined around at least one protrusion in a first reservoir and through an elongate opening to a second reservoir.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a body includes a dividing wall within an interior to separate a first reservoir from a second reservoir, where an elongate opening is defined between a cover and the dividing wall, and where the fluid flow path through the spray bar assembly is defined around the at least one protrusion in the first reservoir and through the elongate opening to the second reservoir.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a body further includes a third reservoir within an interior. The third reservoir is disposed between a first reservoir and a second reservoir.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a body further includes a dividing wall within an interior to separate a first reservoir from a third reservoir. An elongate opening is defined between a cover and the dividing wall.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an elongate opening extends a majority of a distance between a first end of a body and a second end of the body.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a body further includes a grooved wall disposed within an interior to separate a third reservoir from a second reservoir. The grooved wall defines grooves spaced along a length thereof.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a body includes a dividing wall within an interior to separate a first reservoir from a third reservoir, where an elongate opening is defined between a cover and the dividing wall, and where the body includes a grooved wall disposed within the interior to separate the third reservoir from the second reservoir, where the grooved wall defines grooves spaced along a length thereof.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a grooved wall defines a first height within each groove and a second height between adjacent grooves, where the second height is greater than the first height to promote fluid flowing through the grooves to a second reservoir, and where the fluid flow path through a spray bar assembly is defined around at least one protrusion in a first reservoir, through an elongate opening between a dividing wall and a cover to a third reservoir, along the grooves of the grooved wall, and into the second reservoir to at least one fluid outlet.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a grooved wall defines a first height within each groove and a second height between adjacent grooves. The second height is greater than the first height to promote fluid flowing through the grooves to a second reservoir.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a second height of a grooved wall is less than a height of a dividing wall.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a fluid flow path through a spray bar assembly is defined around at least one protrusion in a first reservoir, through an elongate opening between a dividing wall and a cover to a third reservoir, along grooves of a grooved wall, and into a second reservoir to at least one fluid outlet.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one fluid inlet includes multiple fluid inlets.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one fluid outlet includes multiple fluid outlets.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes a suction assembly and a nozzle assembly that defines an inlet in fluid communication with the suction assembly for generating a vacuum effect. A cover is integrally formed with the nozzle assembly.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes an agitator assembly that includes a brushroll cover. A cover of a spray bar assembly is integrally formed with the brushroll cover.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a plurality of rib walls is arranged in a first grouping aligned with a first fluid inlet and a second grouping aligned with a second fluid inlet.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, rib walls in each of first and second groupings are disposed in a V-shaped arrangement that is wider proximate to a dividing wall than proximate to first and second fluid inlets, respectively.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, rib walls at each tier of V-shaped arrangements have a different length.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a plurality of rib walls in each grouping are arranged at different tiers between first and second fluid inlets and dividing wall, and the rib walls at each tier have a different length.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one rib wall is parallel with a dividing wall.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one rib wall is linear.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one rib wall defines an arced shape.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one rib wall is disposed at an oblique angle relative to a dividing wall.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a body further includes a third reservoir between a first reservoir and a second reservoir.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a body further includes a grooved wall that defines grooves spaced along a length thereof to promote fluid flow along the grooves. A first reservoir is separated from a third reservoir by a dividing wall. The third reservoir is separated from a second reservoir by the grooved wall.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a flow path for fluid through an interior is defined from a first fluid inlet and a second fluid inlet, through a first reservoir about rib walls, along a dividing wall, and into a third reservoir, along grooves of a grooved wall, and into a second reservoir to fluid outlets.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a plurality of rib walls extends from a bottom surface of a first reservoir.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a spray bar assembly includes a cover that defines an elongate protrusion extending along a length thereof. A body defines an interior and is coupled to the cover. The body includes at least one fluid inlet. Fluid outlets are in fluid communication with the at least one fluid inlet. A first reservoir and a second reservoir extend a length of the interior of the body. The elongate protrusion is disposed in the first reservoir. A dividing wall separates the first reservoir from the second reservoir. An elongate opening is defined between the dividing wall and the cover. A flow path through the interior of the body is defined from the at least one fluid inlet, through the first reservoir, through the elongate opening between the dividing wall and the cover, and into the second reservoir to the fluid outlets.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an elongate protrusion extends along a length of an interior from a first end of the body to a second end of a body.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, fluid outlets are defined in a bottom of a second reservoir to dispense fluid to a surface to be cleaned.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an elongate opening extends a same length as a first reservoir.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a width of the elongate protrusion is at least half a width of a first reservoir to reduce a volume capacity of the first reservoir.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the body further includes a third reservoir between first and second reservoirs and a grooved wall within the interior. The third reservoir is separated from the first reservoir by a dividing wall and separated from the second reservoir by the grooved wall.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an upright cleaning apparatus includes a housing. A base is coupled to the housing and configured to engage a surface to be cleaned. A supply tank is coupled to the housing. A spray bar assembly is disposed within the base and in fluid communication with the supply tank. The spray bar assembly includes a cover and a body coupled to the cover. The body includes a fluid inlet, fluid outlets in fluid communication with the fluid inlet, a first reservoir disposed within an interior of the body, a second reservoir disposed within the body, and a dividing wall within the interior that extends from a first end of the body to a second end of the body. The dividing wall separates the first reservoir from the second reservoir. A single elongate opening is defined between the dividing wall and the cover to more evenly distribute fluid from the first reservoir to the second reservoir and, consequently, to the fluid outlets and the surface to be cleaned.

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 movable 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.

SURFACE CLEANING APPARATUS HAVING A SPRAY BAR ASSEMBLY

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CPC

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Abstract

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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

Provisional Applications (1)