Floor treatment apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for cleaning or otherwise treating a floored surface that includes a platform adapted to support the weight of an operator. In addition, one embodiment of the present invention is capable of generally performing 360° turns to facilitate the treatment of difficult to access portions of the floored surface.

Claims

1. A floor treatment apparatus, comprising: a chassis comprising a front, a back, a lower surface, a front surface adjacent the front, an upper surface, a rear surface located substantially behind a center point of the chassis, a left surface, and a right surface; a platform located partially between a portion of the right surface and the left surface and at least partially behind the rear surface, wherein the platform includes a top surface adapted to receive the feet of an operator; a throttle and an operator presence device associated with a portion of the top surface; one or more batteries electrically connected to an electric monowheel drive; a steering mechanism associated with the chassis and having a portion accessible to an operator; and a floor treating device connected adjacent to the lower surface of the chassis, the floor treating device configured to scrub floors, clean carpets, vacuum floors, wax floors, burnish floors, remove wax from a floor, or remove varnish from a floor.

2. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the chassis has a maximum outside envelope of about 51 inches high, 27 inches wide, and 52 inches long.

3. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the top surface of the platform includes one or more protrusions.

4. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, further including a switch to set a speed range wherein no degree of throttle engagement will cause the floor treatment apparatus to exceed the speed range.

5. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein a portion of the electric monowheel drive is positioned below at least a portion of the top surface of the platform.

6. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, further including a clean fluid storage compartment in operable communication with a fluid dispenser.

7. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, further including a spent fluid storage compartment in operable communication with a fluid collection system.

8. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, further including one or more tip over stops.

9. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, further including a hose in fluid communication with a spent fluid storage compartment, at least a portion of which is positioned outside of the chassis.

10. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the throttle comprises a pedal that protrudes above the top surface of the platform and is positioned adjacent the right surface of the chassis.

11. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, further including a member forming a portion of the rear surface, the member being selectively movable wherein when the member is in a first position of use, a top portion of the member is positioned adjacent to the upper surface, and when the member is in a second position of use, a portion of the upper portion of the member is spaced from the upper surface to provide access to an interior portion of the chassis.

12. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, further including a second and a third wheel and wherein the electric monowheel drive is substantially centered between the right and left surface of the chassis.

13. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the throttle is in electrical communication with the electric monowheel drive.

14. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein a control panel is positioned on the chassis and located below a portion of the steering mechanism.

15. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, further including a vacuum motor connected to a squeegee assembly.

16. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a squeegee operatively interconnected to the lower surface and capable of a first position of use spaced a predetermined distance from a surface being cleaned and a second position of use wherein the squeegee contacts the surface being cleaned.

17. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein the squeegee is connected to an assembly that comprises at least one of a plurality of clearance wheels or side rollers.

18. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein the squeegee is located between the front of the chassis and the electric monowheel drive.

19. A floor treatment apparatus, comprising: a chassis having a front, a back, a lower surface, a front surface adjacent the front, a rear surface located substantially behind a center point of the chassis, a left surface, and a right surface; a first wheel operably interconnected to the lower surface adjacent to the left surface; a second wheel operably interconnected to the lower surface adjacent the right surface; a platform adapted to support an operator's weight communicated to the platform through the operator's feet, the platform located at least partially between the right and left surface and substantially behind the rear surface; an electric monowheel drive operably interconnected to the lower surface and in operative communication with one or more batteries; a steering mechanism, at least partially housed within the chassis, operably interconnected to at least one of the first, second, and the electric monowheel drive; and a floor treating mechanism selectively interconnected to the lower surface, the floor treating mechanism configured to scrub floors, clean carpets, vacuum floors, wax floors, burnish floors, remove wax from a floor, or remove varnish from a floor.

20. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 19, wherein the chassis has a maximum outside envelope of about 51 inches high, 27 inches wide, and 52 inches long.

21. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 19, wherein the platform includes a throttle and an operator presence switch.

22. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 19, wherein a top surface of the platform includes one or more protrusions.

23. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 19, further comprising one or more tip over stops.

24. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 19, further comprising a hose in fluid communication with a spent fluid storage compartment, wherein at least a portion of the hose is positioned outside of the chassis.

25. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 19, further including a rotatable member forming a portion of the rear surface, the rotatable member being selectively movable wherein in a first position of use a top portion of the rotatable member is positioned adjacent to the upper surface, and in a second position of use a portion of the upper portion of the rotatable member is spaced from the upper surface to provide access to an interior portion of the chassis.

26. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 19, further including a rotatable squeegee capable of a first position of use positioned a predetermined distance from a surface being cleaned and a second position of use substantially on the surface being cleaned and wherein the squeegee is located between the front of the chassis and the electric monowheel drive.

27. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 19, wherein the electric monowheel drive is at least partially positioned beneath a portion of a top surface of the platform.

28. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 27, wherein the electric monowheel drive is substantially centered between the right and left surface of the chassis.

29. A floor treatment apparatus, comprising: a chassis comprising a front, a back, a lower surface, a front surface adjacent the front, an upper surface, a rear surface adjacent the back, a left surface, and a right surface; a platform located partially between a portion of the right surface and the left surface and at least partially behind the rear surface, wherein the platform includes a top surface adapted to receive the feet of an operator; a throttle comprised of a pedal that protrudes above the top surface of the platform and is positioned adjacent the right surface of the chassis, and an operator presence device, wherein the top surface of the platform includes one or more protrusions; a portion of an electric drive motor positioned below at least a portion of the top surface of the platform, interconnected to a first wheel and in communication with the throttle; one or more batteries electrically connected to the electric drive motor; a steering mechanism associated with the chassis and having a portion accessible to an operator; a floor treating device connected adjacent to the lower surface of the chassis, the floor treating device configured to scrub floors, clean carpets, vacuum floors, wax floors, burnish floors, remove wax from a floor, or remove varnish from a floor; a squeegee operably interconnected to the lower surface and capable of a first position of use spaced a predetermined distance from a surface being cleaned and a second position of use wherein the squeegee contacts the surface being cleaned and positioned between the front of the chassis and the electric drive motor; a clean fluid storage compartment in operable communication with a fluid dispenser; a spent fluid storage compartment in operable communication with a fluid collection system; a hose in fluid communication with the spent fluid storage compartment, wherein at least a portion of the hose being positioned outside of the chassis; and a panel forming a portion of the rear surface, the panel being selectively movable wherein in a first position of use a top portion of the panel is positioned adjacent to the upper surface, and in a second position of use a portion of the upper portion of the panel is spaced from the upper surface to provide access to an interior portion of the chassis.

30. A floor treatment apparatus, comprising: a chassis having a front, a back, a lower surface, a front surface adjacent the front, a rear surface adjacent the back, a left surface, and a right surface; a first wheel operably interconnected to the lower surface adjacent to the left surface; a second wheel operably interconnected to the lower surface adjacent the right surface; a platform adapted to support an operator's weight located at least partially between the right and left surface and at least partially behind the rear surface and including a throttle and operator presence switch; the platform including a top surface having one or more protrusions; at least a third wheel operably interconnected to the lower surface and in operative communication with a battery-powered power plant that is at least partially positioned beneath the top surface of the platform; a steering mechanism, at least partially housed within the chassis, operably interconnected to at least one of the first, second and third wheel; a floor treating mechanism selectively interconnected to the lower surface, the floor treating mechanism configured to scrub floors, clean carpets, vacuum floors, wax floors, burnish floors, remove wax from a floor, or remove varnish from a floor; a rotatable squeegee capable of a first position of use positioned a predetermined distance from a surface being cleaned and a second position of use substantially on the surface being cleaned and positioned between the front of the chassis and the power plant; a hose in fluid communication with a spent fluid storage compartment, wherein at least a portion of the hose is positioned outside of the chassis; and a panel forming a portion of the rear surface and rotatable to provide access to an interior portion of the chassis.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of these embodiments.

(2) FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention showing an operator standing on the platform thereon;

(3) FIG. 2 is a perspective of an alternate embodiment of the present invention that is configured for fluid extraction, and which is controlled by at least one joy stick;

(4) FIG. 3 is a perspective view and alternative embodiment of the present invention that is configured for burnishing operations;

(5) FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention that is equipped with moveable brushes that are adapted to swing out to more efficiently treat a floor surface, and which also includes a wand for selectively cleaning difficult to reach areas;

(6) FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention that is designed to rotate about an 360° axis without significantly traversing in other directions;

(7) FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention that is designed to reach tight areas of floor surface;

(8) FIG. 7 is a detailed perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, showing the steering wheel, brush, and squeegee assembly used therewith;

(9) FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a flooring surface;

(10) FIGS. 9A-B are bottom plan views showing configurations of steering, cleaning, and power mechanisms;

(11) FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention showing an alternate configuration of steering, cleaning, and power mechanisms;

(12) FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention that is adapted to be remotely controlled;

(13) FIGS. 12A-H are views of a rotatable squeegee for use in one embodiment of the present invention;

(14) FIGS. 13A-D are views of a waste fluid system showing a strain basket and a drainage port of one embodiment of the present invention;

(15) FIGS. 14A-D are views of the rear housing and battery tray of one embodiment of the present invention;

(16) FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a control panel and handles of one embodiment of the present invention;

(17) FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an operator platform with a plurality of switches of one embodiment of the present invention;

(18) FIGS. 17A-B is are views of a seat of one embodiment of the present invention;

(19) FIGS. 18A-D are views of a tank and front housing of one embodiment of the present invention;

(20) FIGS. 19A-B are views of a vacuum fan interconnected to the front housing of one embodiment of the present invention; and

(21) FIG. 20 is a right elevation view of one embodiment of the present invention showing the waste water return hose.

(22) To assist in the understanding of the present invention the following list of components and associated numbering found in the drawings is provided herein:

(23) TABLE-US-00001 Component # Floor treating apparatus 2 Platform 4 Operator 6 Chassis 8 Bottom surface of chassis 10 Brush 12 Rotating brush 13 Scrubber 14 Squeegee 16 Wheel 18 Steering wheel 20 Joy stick 22 Handle Grip 24 Powered wheel 26 Burnishing pad 28 Swinging brush 30 Wand 32 Hose 34 Swing arm 36 Bearing 38 Track 40 Pivot point 42 Handle 44 Cam 46 Strainer basket 48 Waste tank cover 49 Waste fluid intake 50 Main Storage Tank 51 Clean fluid intake 52 Fitting 54 Flange 56 Waste fluid bag 58 Mandrill 60 Drain hose 62 Band Clamp 64 Rear housing 66 Battery 68 Tray 70 Drink holder 72 Housing pad 74 Control panel 76 Fastener 77 Operator presence switch 80 Throttle 82 Seat 84 Adjustment Mechanism 85 Hook 86 Front housing 88 Light 89 Vacuum fan 92 Vacuum exhaust channels 94 Waste H2O return hose 96 Hose channel 98 Tip over stops 100 Primary housing 104

(24) It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details which are not necessary for an understanding of the invention or which render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(25) Referring now to FIGS. 1-20 an apparatus 2 for cleaning or otherwise treating a floor surface is shown. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention includes a chassis 8 with a platform 4 that is adapted to support the weight of an operator 6, thus increasing the efficiency of the entire floor treatment operation. In addition, various cleaning or floor treatment components may be interconnected to the bottom surface 10 of the chassis, such as brushes 12, scrubbers 14, squeegees 16, vacuum shoes, etc.

(26) The chassis 8 also includes a plurality of wheels 18 operably interconnected to the bottom surface 10 to enable steering and provide stability. It is contemplated that the operator 6 will stand on the platform 4 and steer the apparatus 2 with either a steering wheel 20 or other type of steering mechanism, such as a joy stick 22. Such an embodiment of the present invention enables the floor surface to be cleaned or otherwise treated more efficiently, since the operator 6 does not have to push or pull an often heavy apparatus 2. In addition, since the human component of powering or otherwise moving the apparatus 2 is omitted, more consistent flooring treatment is achieved, thereby saving materials and reducing costs of the entire operation.

(27) Referring now to FIG. 1, one embodiment of the present invention is shown. More specifically, the chassis 8 which includes the platform 4 adapted to support the operator 6 during the floor treatment operation is shown. The operator 6 preferably stands on the platform 4 that is generally parallel to the flooring surface. Preferably, the platform 4 is tilted, rear edge higher than the front edge, between about 3 to 8 degrees to increase ergonomics. However, as it will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, other support devices, such as seats, which may be operably folded into the chassis 8, may be provided to increase the comfort level of the operator 6. In addition, the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 is equipped with a steering mechanism, such as a wheel 18, that allows the operator 6 to easily maneuver the apparatus 2 around the flooring surface.

(28) The chassis 8 is constructed of any material, but preferably hard plastic will be used to reduce the weight of the apparatus 2. As shown herein, a plurality of wheels 18 are operably interconnected to the rear of the apparatus 2 to provide stability and perhaps power for locomotion. In addition, a squeegee 16 is included that is adapted to extract or funnel water or debris to a location where it is extracted via vacuum into a container generally, but not always, located at least partially inside the chassis 8. Further, this embodiment of the present invention includes a brush 12 that is used to agitate the flooring surface to loosen dirt, wherein spray nozzles may be employed situated behind the brush 12 to treat the flooring and capture the dirt so that it can be gathered by the squeegee 16 and suction system of the apparatus 2.

(29) Referring now to FIG. 2, an alternate embodiment of the present invention that is used mainly for fluid extraction is shown. This embodiment of the present invention is similar to the apparatus described above, however alternate components are interconnected to the bottom surface 10 of the chassis 8 such that the apparatus is adapted to efficiently capture fluids or debris deposited on a floored surface. More specifically, this embodiment of the present invention is equipped with at least one brush 12 adapted to agitate water and/or debris and a squeegee 16 that is positioned adjacent to the rear surface of the chassis 8 that contains fluid and debris as the apparatus 2 moves forward. In one embodiment of the present invention, a suction device, such as a vacuum shoe, is positioned near the squeegee 16 such that dirty water is vacuumed from the surface and transferred back into a tank situated inside or adjacent to the chassis 8. Alternatively, another embodiment of the present invention is provided with a squeegee 16 with a plurality of suction holes that are the terminus of conduits that transport waste water to the storage tank.

(30) In the illustrated embodiment, the operator 6 is able to control the apparatus 2 with a plurality of joy sticks 22. In addition, hand grips 24 are provided on the sides of the operator 6 to increase safety. Further, this embodiment of the present invention employs powered wheels 26 that allow the entire system to rotate on a single vertical axis without substantially transitioning in other directions. More specifically, this embodiment of the present invention is capable of performing a 360° turn, which aids cleaning of tight spaces.

(31) An alternate embodiment of the present invention that is used for burnishing is shown in FIG. 3. This embodiment of the present invention includes a burnishing pad 28 operably interconnected to the bottom surface of the chassis 10. As before, the operator 6 stands on a platform 4 built into the chassis 8. One skilled in the art will appreciate that this embodiment of the present invention may also include a device for suctioning debris left over from the burnishing process, such as dust or wax particulates, for example.

(32) Referring now to FIG. 4, an alternate embodiment of the present invention that employs swinging brushes 30 is shown. This embodiment of the present invention is very similar to those described above, however the brushes 30 used to agitate, scrub, or burnish are rotatably interconnected to the bottom surface 10 of the chassis 8. More specifically, the brushes 30 of this embodiment are capable of independently folding inwardly, thereby efficiently cleaning the interior portion of a floor when the apparatus is operating near a vertical surface such as a wall. As shown herein, the brushes 30 are independently movable and preferably spring loaded outward such that contact with a vertical surface causes the brush 30 to fold under the chassis 8. Alternatively, as one in the art will appreciate, the orientation of the brushes may be controlled by the operator. In addition, a wand 32 interconnected to a hose 34 may also be employed with this embodiment of the present invention to allow for selective application of cleaning solution or suction.

(33) Referring now to FIG. 5, another embodiment of the present invention that utilizes centered powered wheels 26 is shown. More specifically, this embodiment of the invention is similar to those described above, however it is equipped with a plurality of wheels 26 that allow a 360° turning capability. This embodiment of the present invention is also similarly adapted for cleaning the surface of a floor with a brush 12 or a plurality thereof that is used to agitate the dirt wherein a squeegee contains and suctions debris into a container.

(34) Referring now to FIGS. 6-8, an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown that is equipped with a wheel 18 with brushes 12 therearound for cleaning in all directions. This embodiment of the present invention is equipped with brushes 12 that allow for cleaning or agitation of the flooring surface in any direction the apparatus 2 is moving, thus efficiently cleaning flooring without having to make multiple passes over the surface.

(35) Referring now to FIG. 9A-B, one configuration of cleaning components interconnected to the bottom surface 10 of the chassis 8 is shown. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is adapted to either sweep or clean a floor. In the illustrated embodiment, a presweeping brush 12 agitates the carpet or hardwood floor to loosen debris. Next, rotating scrubbing brushes further agitate the surface and perhaps add fluid and cleaning solution thereto to help loosen and contain any loose debris. Finally, a squeegee 16 and preferably a suction system is provided that captures the dirty water and as the apparatus is moved forward. As shown herein, the drive unit is the center wheel 26, which is also adapted to selectively rotate upon steering commands from the operator 6.

(36) FIG. 9B shows a configuration of cleaning components interconnected to the bottom surface 10 of the chassis 8 similar to what was shown in FIG. 9A. The difference, however, is that the pre-sweeping brush 12 has been replaced by three scrub brushes or three rotating brushes, 13A, 13B and 13C that may be used to either sweep, burnish or combinations thereof a floor surface. The brushes can rotate at speeds desired by the operator or at preselected speeds and in directions selected by the operator or in pre-selected directions.

(37) Referring now to FIG. 10, an alternate configuration of the cleaning components interconnected to the bottom surface 10 of the chassis 8 is shown. More specifically, this configuration is substantially similar to that shown above in FIG. 9, however, the drive mechanism of the apparatus is a transaxled power plant that provides power to the rear wheels 26, wherein the steering is performed by a front wheel. In one embodiment of the present invention the drive mechanism is an electric monowheel drive. In another embodiment, the drive mechanism comprises rear wheels that are independently driven by drive motors.

(38) Referring now to FIG. 11, yet another embodiment of the present invention performs a floor treatment operation without the need of physical human contact is shown. More specifically, this embodiment of the present invention is remote controlled or otherwise intelligent such that it cleans a floor surface without the direct contact of an operator. This embodiment of the present invention may be configured for any task, such as scrubbing, sweeping, vacuuming, burnishing, carpet cleaning, waxing, surfacing, cleaning, etc. It is envisioned that the operator be in a separate location, perhaps offsite from the actual cleaning operation, and aided by remote viewing devices. Alternatively, one embodiment of the present invention is programmed with the ability to automatically treat a floor surface, wherein the dimensions of the surface are either programmed into or learned as the apparatus is in use, thereby alleviating any need for human contact with the apparatus. This embodiment of the present invention may be deployed from a storage location automatically wherein quick disconnects to fluid sources or waste receptacles are remotely joined to it such that filling and emptying tanks or waste containers inside the chassis 8 is done without the need of a human operator as well. This embodiment of the present invention may be used in areas where it is dangerous for humans to operate, such as nuclear power plants, areas where asbestos exposure is likely, etc.

(39) Referring now to FIG. 12A-G, a squeegee 16 for use in one embodiments of the present invention is shown. More specifically, some embodiments of the present invention include a pivot mechanism that allows the squeegee 16 to remain in place when the floor treating apparatus 2 is turning. Thus, the amount of fluid extracted when the apparatus 2 is making a tight turn is increased. In the illustrated embodiment, the squeegee 16 is connected to a swing arm 36 that pivots about a point adjacent to the front wheel 18 of the apparatus. The swing arm 36 is supported via rollers or bearings 38 on a track 40 that maintain the squeegee's 16 vertical position relative to the floor. Upon making a right or left hand turn, friction will tend to keep the squeegee 16 in a straight line, following the original path of the vehicle. Once a new line of travel is established, the squeegee 16 will fall back in place substantially under the apparatus 2. FIG. 12A shows the squeegee 16 in its upmost left position, while FIG. 12C shows the squeegee in its upmost right position. FIG. 12B shows the squeegee in a neutral position while FIG. 12D shows the squeegee in a neutral position but from a side view.

(40) The squeegee 16 of one embodiment of the present invention is provided with a plurality of wheels that interface with the floor to maintain the vertical clearance of the squeegee assembly. In addition, side rollers may be provided that prevent the squeegee 16 from contacting a vertical surface, such as a wall. These wheels and various portions of the squeegee assembly may be selectively adjustable such that the width of the squeegee 16 and the placement of the wheels (squeegee height) may be altered at will.

(41) As shown herein, the swing arm 36 connects to a pivot 42 that utilizes the momentum of the squeegee 16 to swing it from the apparatus 2. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate other methods of transitioning the squeegee 16 from the floor treatment apparatus 2 may be utilized without departing from the scope of the invention. More specifically, a motorized system may be employed that is in communication with the steering system of the vehicle such that rotation of the steering wheel will swing the squeegee 16 away from the apparatus 2 in a predetermined manner.

(42) An actuation system that selectively raises the squeegee 16 from the floor may also be included as shown in FIG. 12E. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a handle actuated leverage system 44 is used and is in mechanical communication with a cam 46. The cam allows the user to apply minimal force to the handle 44 adjacent to the control panel to raise and lower the squeegee 16. One skilled in the art will also appreciate that this function may be performed alternatively with a motor.

(43) FIG. 12H is a blow-up of a section of FIG. 12D showing positioning of the track 40 in relation to bearing 38.

(44) Referring now to FIG. 13A-D, a recovery tank strainer basket 48 of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Recovery tanks of some embodiments of the present invention are constructed out of resiliently deflectable material, such as a plastic bag. The bag is inserted into the clean fluid tank 51 of the apparatus. Once the clean fluid is transferred to the floor treatment tool of the apparatus, waste water may be suctioned into the waste fluid tank, thus expanding the bag and occupying the space once occupied by now dispensed clean fluid. Often, small metal shavings, wood splinters, glass, etc., may be suctioned with the waste fluid and deposited into the waste fluid tank, which may produce rips or tears in the bag and ultimately lead to leakage and contamination of the cleaning fluid. Thus, it is desirable to have a system that captures any dangerous debris such that it does not come in contact with the waste fluid tank. One embodiment of the present invention thus includes a strain basket 48 connected to the cover 49 of the waste fluid tank. In the illustrated embodiment, a generally rectangular straining device constructed of a rigid material with a plurality of apertures therethrough is provided. As the waste water is deposited into the tank through the cover, any large debris is captured by the strain basket 48. One skilled in the art will appreciate that any sized aperture may be employed to dictate the size of debris that is captured. Also, it should be specifically understood that any shape of strain basket 48 may be used without departing from the scope of the invention.

(45) Referring now specifically to FIG. 13D, a fluid discharge system that is connected to the waste water tank 58 of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. More specifically, a fitting 54 with a flange 56 may be used that is connected to the main storage tank 51 of the apparatus. Preferably, the fitting 54 is spun at a high rate of speed and engaged with an aperture in the tank 51, thus creating friction induced heat between the two surfaces and welding them together. The opening of the waste water bag 58 is then fed through the fitting 54 and a mandrill 60 is added to sandwich the waste water bag 58 therebetween. The mandrill 60 is made out of a rigid material, such as aluminum to ensure an open flow path. A drain hose 62 is slid over the outer surface of the fitting 54 and is secured with a clamp 64. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the drain hose 64 is generally capped during use, wherein the user disconnects the cap to drain the waste water from the bag 58. To ensure that the bag 58 is entirely empty, a new solution may be added to the tank, thus squeezing the bag 58 to expel all the waste water contained therein.

(46) Referring now to FIG. 14A-D, the rear portion of the floor treatment apparatus 2 is shown. More specifically, the rear of the apparatus 2 includes a removable housing 66. The housing 66 of the present invention is capable of selective rotation away from a primary housing 104 about an axis parallel to the rear axle of the apparatus 2. Alternatively, the rear housing 66 may be completely removable. This aspect of the present invention provides the ability to access batteries 68 that may provide power to the apparatus 2. The batteries 68 may reside on a removable tray 70 that is slidingly engaged to the apparatus 2, thus providing easy access for maintenance. The tray 70 resides on tracks that interface with a plurality of wheels, bearings, etc. The tray also includes a locking feature that securedly maintains the batteries 68 inside the vehicle. The rear housing 66 also includes other features, such as a cavity for securing various items and drink holders 72. A pad 74 may also be included that provides greater protection and comfort to the user.

(47) Referring now to FIG. 15, a control panel 76 and associated structure of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Embodiments of the present invention include a control panel 76 that includes minimal fasteners 77 for interconnection to the floor treatment apparatus 2. That is, thumb screws, or similar type of fasteners may be included such that quick and easy removal of the control panel 76 may be achieved to facilitate repair.

(48) Embodiments of the present invention also include hand grips 24 adjacent to the control panel 76 to provide support for the operator. More specifically, during tight turns the inertial forces acting upon an individual may cause an operator to fall. Hand grips 24, which may be integrated onto the chassis of the apparatus, will give the operator a place to hold onto the device for added comfort and provide an additional safety feature. In addition they provide support when operating control switches located adjacent to handle grip 78.

(49) Referring now to FIG. 16, the platform 4 of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention includes a platform 4 with an operator presence switch 80, a platform switch and a throttle 82. The platform 4 also may include a suspension system and be cushioned to increase operator comfort. In addition, the platform 4 may be foldable such that the envelop of the apparatus may be selectively reduced. In some embodiments of the present invention the platform 4 is located above an axis defined by the centers of the wheels located near the rear of the floor cleaning machine, as specifically shown at least in FIGS. 12A-12D, and 19A. In some embodiments of the present invention, the platform 4 is located below an axis defined by the centers of the wheels located near the rear of the floor cleaning machine, as specifically shown at least in FIG. 14B. In some other embodiments of the present invention, the outer surface of the wheels located near the rear of the floor cleaning machine define a cylindrical volume, and the platform 4 is located such that a portion thereof penetrates the volume defined by the wheels, as specifically shown at least in FIGS. 12A-12D, 14A, 14B, 16 and 20. In some embodiments of the present invention, the platform 4 is located below an uppermost point of the wheels located near the rear of the floor cleaning machine. As shown in FIG. 16, one embodiment of the present invention includes a platform with a left sidewall and a right sidewall that extend above the surface that receives the operator's feet. Embodiments of the present invention may also include a front wall extending from a front, inner surface that receives the operator's feet. Further, as shown in FIG. 9B, the platform may be associated with rear wheels that are not interconnected.

(50) The operator presence switch 80 of one embodiment of the present invention is designed to act as a safety feature that interrupts the throttle pedal when not depressed. This ensures that the operator has both feet positioned on the platform when the machine is in use. Upon deactivation of the switch, for example if the operator removes a foot from the switch, a neutral mode may be engaged such that no power or forward or rearward motion of the device is possible. In addition, the operator presence switch 80 may ensure that sufficient weight is maintained on the platform at all times as a safety feature.

(51) In the typical use, the platform switch is in operable connection with the platform, such that it is activated when the operator stands on the platform. The operator must then engage a reset device, preferably on the control panel, to initiate motion. The purpose of the platform switch and reset switch is to act as a safety feature such that the machine does not immediately move when the operator steps on to the peddle platform. Upon deactivation of the switch, for example if the operator steps from the apparatus, a neutral mode may be engaged such that no power and forward or rearward motion is possible.

(52) The throttle 82 of some embodiments of the present invention is adapted to selectively increase or decrease the speed of the apparatus depending on the desires of the operator. More specifically, various speed ranges may be included: neutral, first, second, third, reverse, etc. (or slow, medium, fast, etc.). In some embodiments, cleaning operations are performed at slow speeds, while transportation from location to location is performed at higher speeds. When the operator sets the speed range to first, for example, the activation of the throttle 82 will propel the apparatus within that speed range, such that it cannot transition from the first range to the second range without a manual shift of the range. Thus, embodiments of the present invention include a hand speed range selector, wherein the throttle 82 simply turns the desired speed range to an activated mode. The neutral mode may also be set by the operator, wherein no amount of throttle 82 engagement will increase the speed of the apparatus. In addition, as mentioned briefly above, when the operator removes his or her foot from the operator presence switch 80, the apparatus automatically disengages the throttle. One skilled in the art will appreciate however, that a throttle 82 may be provided that provides selective speed increments, such as employed on an automobile, without departing from the scope of the invention.

(53) It is likewise known that a throttle used on an electric motor drive device could operate by switches which regulate power delivered from batteries to a motor. For instance, and referring now to FIG. 10 from incorporated by reference U.S. Pat. No. 4,196,492: “batteries 240 are connected through a manually operable switch 117 to a solenoid operated switch 134. Switch 134 has two sets of normally open contacts 132 and two sets of normally closed contacts 133. All the contacts 132 and 133 are mechanically coupled together by means of a rod 135 for simultaneous ganged operation when coil 136 is energized. In the operation of cleaning machine 202, when the manually operable switch 117 is closed by the operator, coil 136 is energized causing the contacts 132 to close. This feeds power through to a potentiometer 131. Potentiometer 131 may be used to vary the voltage there through to adjust the speed of drive motor 108. From the potentiometer 131, the power passes through a forward and reverse switch 120. Forward and reverse switch 120 is identical to that disclosed in FIG. 7 and has for its purpose the changing of the polarity of the voltage applied to drive motor 108 to drive that motor in forward or reverse directions. However, indicator lights generally indicated as 260 and 262 are wired into the forward and reverse switch 120. When the motor 108 is being driven in a forward direction, the green indicator light 260 will light. Conversely, when the motor 108 is being driven in a reverse direction, the red indicator light 262 will be lit.”

(54) Embodiments of the present invention also include a braking mechanism. For example, when an operator removes his or her foot from the operator presence switch 80, throttle, or disengages the platform switch, a braking mechanism may be employed such that any motion of the apparatus automatically or gradually ceases. The braking mechanism may be electro mechanical, mechanical or hydraulic. Alternatively, the foot brake may be provided adjacent to the throttle 82 or operator presence switch 80 that provides the same halting capability. Further, hand or emergency brakes may be employed adjacent to the control panel of the apparatus.

(55) Referring now to FIG. 17A-B, a seat 84 of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention include a selectively connectable seating device 84 for engagement with the chassis to increase the operator comfort. Seats 84 of some embodiments of the present invention are selectively adjustable 85, thus making them easy to accommodate any sized individual. In operation, a receiver hitch, or similar connection mechanism, is connected to the rear portion of the platform 4 and a mating device for interconnection to the receiver hitch, or other device, is provided on the seat 84. The seat 84 may also include a plurality of hooks, shelves, cup holders, etc. for the securement of cords, bags, or any other type of cleaning or comfort related item. Further, the receiver hitch may be used when the seat 84 is engaged or not engaged, for example, to transport other items such as a supplemental wheeled device that may accommodate extra power sources, cleaning supplies, tanks, etc.

(56) Referring now to FIG. 18A-D, a tank 50 of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Some embodiments of the present invention include a tank 50 that is equipped with a plurality of lights 89 and/or horns that facilitate cleaning and/or act as additional safety features. Alternatively, lights may be integrated into bumpers positioned adjacent to the tank 50 or on the sides of the apparatus.

(57) Although not shown, a filter may be provided in fluid communication with the fluid pump. This filter is designed to capture any debris that may adversely affect the operation of the pump. Unfortunately on many cleaning machines, the filter is placed in a hard to access location, such that repair or monitoring thereof is very difficult. Thus, one embodiment of the present invention includes a filter that is situated on the outer surface of the housing, perhaps on the control panel. Thus, the operator has ample opportunity to monitor the integrity of the filter and make quick repairs when necessary.

(58) Referring now to FIG. 19A-B, a vacuum fan 92 which is connected to the front housing 88 of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. More specifically, a vacuum fan 92 provides suction to remove debris filled fluids from the floor. The fan 92 is preferably situated under the control panel 76 of the vehicle, such that the intake cooling air that is drawn in by the vacuum fan 92 is channeled adjacent to the control panel 76 to cool componentry associated therewith.

(59) In addition, the tank 50 may be made out of a formable material such that exhaust channels 94 may be machined or molded into the tank 50. The channels 94 direct the exhaust air from the vacuum 92 to an exit muffler of the apparatus. The channels 94 also act as a baffle to remove noise energy from the exhaust gases, thus making the entire system quieter.

(60) Referring now to FIG. 20, a waste fluid return hose 96 is shown. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention decreases its profile by inserting the waste water hose 96 into a hose channel 98 that is integrated into the outside surface of the apparatus 2. The hose 96 being situated on the outside also has the added advantage of making it very accessible, such that it can be removed and inspected for clogs or breaches.

(61) Further, some embodiments of the present invention are provided with tip over stops adjacent to the front corners of the apparatus. The stops may be replaceable and ensure that the apparatus does not tip over during tight turns. The tip over stops are generally constructed out of a material that is harmless to flooring, such as Teflon, silicone, rubber, plastic, etc. In addition, one skilled in the art will appreciate that rollers may be employed that are situated a predetermined distance from the floor to perform the same function.

(62) Referring now to FIGS. 1-20, a manner of making the present invention is shown and described herein. As has been explained, the present invention is generally similar to the floor treatment devices used in the art. However, unlike many prior art devices, the present invention provides a location for which the operator can stand or sit, thus enabling him or her to more efficiently perform their tasks. In addition, instead of using brute strength to perform the task of steering the cleaning device, a steering mechanism and associated hardware are provided to aid in the smooth transition from one direction to another. Also, the present invention device has a compact profile and mechanism which allows for 360° cleaning of tight spaces. Further, to construct the remote control version of the system, software that is known in the art may be installed in the chassis 8 to allow for the system to be either remotely controlled or learn the cleaning surface as it operates. In addition, a series of cameras may be interconnected to the chassis 8 to provide remote viewing to an operator offsite.

(63) While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present invention, as set forth in the following claims.