1. Patent Search
  2. Details

Surface Treatment Tool

20240164610 ยท 2024-05-23

    Inventors

    Cpc classification

    International classification

    Abstract

    Provided is a surface treatment tool including an elongate body. The elongate body includes a first end having a handle with a first handgrip portion and a second end distal the first end configured to be coupled a surface treatment head. The surface treatment tool also includes a fluid outlet configured to apply fluid to a surface to be treated, and a surface treatment head configured to engage a surface to be treated and comprising a suction region configured to suck fluid from a surface to be treated. The elongate body includes a fluid tank in fluid communication with the fluid outlet; a waste tank in fluid communication with the suction region and configured to collect fluid removed from a surface to be treated via the suction region; and a power source configured to supply power to the surface treatment tool.

    Claims

    1. A surface treatment tool comprising: an elongate body comprising a first end having a handle with a handgrip portion and a second end distal the first end configured to be coupled a surface treatment head; a fluid outlet configured to apply fluid to a surface to be treated; and a surface treatment head configured to engage a surface to be treated and comprising a suction region configured to suck fluid from a surface to be treated; wherein the elongate body comprises: a fluid tank in fluid communication with the fluid outlet; a waste tank in fluid communication with the suction region and configured to collect fluid removed from a surface to be treated via the suction region; a power source configured to supply power to the surface treatment tool; and a suction source for sucking fluid and/or debris from the suction region to the waste tank.

    2. The surface treatment tool of claim 1, wherein the elongate body comprises a spine defining a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end of the elongate body, optionally wherein the fluid tank and/or the waste tank and/or the power source is coupled to the spine; optionally wherein the fluid tank and/or the waste tank and/or the power source is removably coupled to the spine.

    3. The surface treatment tool of claim 2, wherein the fluid tank is shaped to wrap around at least a portion of the spine, and/or wherein the waste tank is shaped to wrap around at least a portion of the spine; optionally wherein the power source is located proximal the spine; optionally wherein the fluid tank is shaped to wrap around at least a portion of the power source and/or wherein the waste tank is shaped to wrap around at least a portion of the power source.

    4. The surface treatment tool of claim 2, wherein at least two of the fluid tank, the waste tank and the power source are coupled to the spine such that the bulk of said two components is located at a first side of the spine, optionally wherein the first side corresponds to a treatment direction when the surface treatment tool is in normal use.

    5. The surface treatment tool of claim 2, wherein the handgrip portion is an elongate handle comprising a longitudinal axis which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal body of the elongate body, optionally wherein the longitudinal axis of the elongate handle is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the elongate body.

    6. The surface treatment tool of claim 2, wherein the spine comprises an interior profile configured to carry: a fluid supply path arranged to couple the fluid outlet with the fluid tank, and/or a waste removal path arranged to couple the suction region to the waste tank, and/or a power supply line arranged to carry power from the power source to the surface treatment head; optionally wherein the spine comprises an interior profile defining a volume forming to at least part of the fluid supply path, and/or wherein the spine comprises a profile defining a volume forming to at least part of the waste removal path.

    7. The surface treatment tool of claim 1, wherein the elongate body is coupled to the surface treatment head via coupling, wherein the coupling comprises a joint arrangement comprising a first axis and a second axis perpendicular to the first rotational axis; optionally, wherein the first rotational axis intersects the second rotational axis; optionally wherein the coupling is offset from the longitudinal axis of the elongate body.

    8. The surface treatment tool of claim 1, wherein a rear edgethe surface treatment head with respect to a treatment direction of the surface treatment tool comprises a first end, a second end and a middle portion located between the first and second ends, wherein the middle portion of the rear edge projects rearward of the first and second ends with respect to a treatment direction of the surface treatment head.

    9. The surface treatment tool of claim 8, where wherein the surface treatment head comprises at least a portion comprising a curved shaped profile in plan view; and/or wherein the surface treatment head comprises at least a portion comprising a substantially V-shaped profile in plan view.

    10. The surface treatment tool of claim 8, wherein the surface treatment head comprises a front edge with respect to the treatment direction, and wherein at least one of the front edge and the rear edge are at least partially curved or V-shaped.

    11. The surface treatment tool of claim 1, wherein the surface treatment head comprises a moveable surface treatment element configured to engage a surface to be treated and a driving means comprising a motor configured to drive the movable surface treatment element; optionally wherein the driving means comprises an eccentric drive mechanism, wherein the motor is coupled to the moveable surface treatment element via the eccentric drive mechanism so that the moveable surface treatment element engages a surface to be treated in a cyclical motion such that a portion of the moveable surface treatment element faces in the same direction throughout the cyclical motion.

    12. The surface treatment tool of claim 11, wherein the suction region is provided proximal the movable surface treatment element; optionally, wherein the suction region is provided to a rear of the movable surface treatment element with respect to a treatment direction of the surface treatment tool.

    13. The surface treatment tool of claim 1, wherein the suction region is defined by one or more resilient guide members; optionally, wherein the profile of the or each resilient guide member(s) is complementary to the profile of the or a movable surface treatment element; optionally wherein the resilient guide members comprise a first resilient guide member provided proximal the or a movable surface treatment element, optionally wherein the first resilient guide member is shaped to form openings when in use to permit fluid to enter said suction region when the surface treatment tool is moved in a treatment direction; optionally wherein the suction region is defined, at least in part, by first and second resilient guide members.

    14. (canceled)

    15. A surface treatment tool comprising: an elongate body comprising a first end having a handle with a first handgrip portion and a second end distal the first end configured to be coupled a surface treatment head; and a surface treatment head comprising a chassis configured to be coupled to a treatment portion arranged to engage a surface to be treated when in use; wherein the elongate body comprises a second handgrip portion spaced apart from the first handgrip portion.

    16. The surface treatment tool according to claim wherein the first and second handgrip portions are spaced apart by 70 cm or less, for example between 10 and 50 cm, for example between 20 and 30 cm, e.g. 25 cm.

    17. The surface treatment tool according to claim 15, wherein the first handgrip portion and the second handgrip portion are substantially parallel to each other.

    18. A surface treatment head for a surface treatment tool, the surface treatment head comprising: a first treatment component having a first surface treatment element configured to engage a surface to be treated; a second treatment component having a second surface treatment element configured to engage said surface to be treated; and a bracket arrangement configured to couple the first and second treatment components together; and wherein the bracket arrangement is configured such that when a load is applied to the bracket arrangement, the load is distributed between the first and second treatment components and applied to said surface to be treated.

    19. The surface treatment head of claim 18, wherein the first treatment component comprises a body and the first treatment element is a movable surface treatment element configured for movement with respect to the body, optionally wherein the first treatment component comprises a driving means configured to drive the movable surface treatment element to effect treatment of said surface to be treated; and/or wherein the second treatment element comprises a suction region configured to suck fluid from said surface to be treated; optionally, wherein the suction region is defined by one or more resilient members, the one or more resilient members comprising front and rear elongate squeegee blades.

    20. The surface treatment head of claim 18, wherein the bracket arrangement is configured such that when a load is applied to the bracket arrangement a first predetermined amount of said load is applied to the first treatment component and a second predetermined amount of said load is applied to the second treatment component; wherein the first predetermined amount is in the range of 30 to 70%, optionally 40 to 60%, optionally 45% to 55%, of the total load applied to the bracket arrangement; and/or wherein the second predetermined amount is in the range of 30 to 70%, optionally 40 to 60%, optionally 45% to 55% of the total load applied to the bracket arrangement.

    21. The surface treatment head of claim 1, wherein the entire load applied to the bracket arrangement is transferred to the first and second treatment elements.

    22-72. (canceled)

    Description

    BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

    [0326] The terms Fig., Figs., Figure, and Figures are used interchangeably in the specification to refer to the corresponding figures in the drawings

    [0327] The present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following figures in which:

    [0328] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a surface treatment tool according to an embodiment;

    [0329] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a spine of the surface treatment tool of FIG. 1;

    [0330] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a surface treatment head of the surface treatment tool of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment;

    [0331] FIG. 4 is a plan view of the surface treatment head of FIG. 3;

    [0332] FIG. 5 is a side view of the surface treatment head of FIGS. 3 and 4, taken in cross-section along line A-A of FIG. 4;

    [0333] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a limiting mechanism of FIG. 5;

    [0334] FIG. 7 is a side view of the surface treatment head of FIGS. 3 to 6, taken in cross-section along line B-B of FIG. 4;

    [0335] FIG. 8 is a side view of the surface treatment head of FIGS. 3 to 7, taken in cross-section along line C-C of FIG. 4;

    [0336] FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of the surface treatment head view of FIGS. 3 to 8;

    [0337] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a surface treatment head of the surface treatment tool of FIG. 1, according to a further embodiment;

    [0338] FIG. 11 is a plan view of the surface treatment head of FIG. 10;

    [0339] FIG. 12 is a schematic representation of the surface treatment head view of FIGS. and 11;

    [0340] FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a squeegee assembly of the surface treatment heads of FIGS. 3 to 12, according to an embodiment;

    [0341] FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a squeegee assembly of the surface treatment heads of FIGS. 3 to 12, according to a further embodiment;

    [0342] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an end of the squeegee assemblies of FIGS. 13 and 14;

    [0343] FIG. 16 is a front view of the squeegee assembly of FIG. 13;

    [0344] FIG. 17 a schematic representation of the movable surface treatment element and guide elements of the surface treatment heads of FIGS. 3 to 12;

    [0345] FIG. 18 is an enlarged view of an end of the surface treatment head of FIGS. 4; and

    [0346] FIG. 19 a schematic representation of a movable surface treatment element and a body with guide portions of a surface treatment head, according to a further embodiment;

    DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

    [0347] Referring firstly to FIG. 1, a surface treatment tool is indicated at 200. The surface treatment tool 200 has an elongate body 202 with a first end 204, having a handle 206 with a first handgrip portion 208a and a second handgrip portion 208b, and a second end 210 distal the first end 204 configured to be coupled to a surface treatment head 10.

    [0348] The surface treatment tool 200 has a fluid outlet 212 (as shown in FIG. 5) configured to apply fluid to a surface S to be treated. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid outlet 212 is provided on the surface treatment head 10. As will be described in more detail below, the surface treatment head 10 also includes a suction region 106 (as shown in FIG. 5) configured to suck fluid from the surface S to be treated.

    [0349] The elongate body 202 includes: a fluid tank 214 in fluid communication with the fluid outlet 212; a waste tank 216A in fluid communication with the suction region 106 and configured to collect fluid and/or debris removed from the surface S via the suction region 106; and a power source 218 configured to supply power to the surface treatment tool 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongate body 202 also includes user controls 220 for controlling operation of the surface treatment tool 200.

    [0350] In the illustrated embodiment, the elongate body 202 includes a spine 222 defining a longitudinal axis A.sub.L extending between the first end 204 and the second end 206 of the elongate body 202. The fluid tank 214, waste tank 216A and power source 218 are each removably coupled to the spine 222.

    [0351] In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid tank 214 is shaped to wrap around a portion of the spine 222 and the waste tank 216A is shaped to wrap around a portion of the spine 222. In the illustrated embodiment, the power source 218 is located proximal the spine 222 and the fluid tank 214 is also shaped to wrap around a portion of the power source 218. In alternative embodiments, the waste tank 216A is shaped to wrap around a portion of the power source 218.

    [0352] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the fluid tank 214, the waste tank 216A and the power source 218 are coupled to the spine 222 such that the bulk of the fluid tank 214, the waste tank 216A and the power source 218 is located at a first side 224 of the spine 222. In other words, while the fluid tank 214 and waste tank 216A partially wrap around the spine 222 (and thus have portions behind the first side 224), the majority of these components 214, 216A, 218 is located at the first side 224. In the illustrated embodiment, the first side 224 corresponds to a treatment direction D.sub.t when the surface treatment tool 200 is in normal use. In alternative embodiments, one or more of the fluid tank 214, waste tank 216A, and/or power source 218 is located on an opposite side of the spine 222 to the first side 224.

    [0353] In the illustrated embodiment, the first handgrip portion 208a is an elongate handle with a longitudinal axis A.sub.h which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the elongate body 202 (i.e. the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the spine 222). In alternative embodiments, the longitudinal axis A.sub.h of the first handgrip portion 208a is parallel to, but not coaxial with, the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the elongate body 202 (i.e. the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the spine 222).

    [0354] In the illustrated embodiment, the second handgrip portion 208b is an elongate handle with a longitudinal axis A.sub.i which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the elongate body 202 (i.e. the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the spine 222). In alternative embodiments, the longitudinal axis A.sub.i of the second handgrip portion 208b is parallel to, but not coaxial with, the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the elongate body 202 (i.e. the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the spine 222).

    [0355] In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second handgrip portions 208a,b are substantially parallel to each other and co-axial with each other. The first and second handgrip portions 208a,b are spaced apart from each other along the elongate body 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second handgrip portions 208a,b are spaced apart from each other by about 20-30 cm, e.g. 25 cm.

    [0356] With reference to FIG. 2, the spine 222 has an interior profile 226 configured to carry a fluid supply path arranged to couple the fluid outlet 212 with the fluid tank 214, and/or a waste removal path arranged to couple the suction region 106 to the waste tank 216A, and/or a power supply line arranged to carry power from the power source 218 to the surface treatment head 10.

    [0357] In some embodiments (not shown), the interior profile 226 of the spine 222 is configured to receive the power source 218 such that the power source 218 may be located at least partially within the spine 222. In other embodiments, the handle 206 has an interior profile configured to receive the power source 218 such that the power source 218 may be located at least partially within the handle 206. In other embodiments, the power source 218 is partially located within the interior region 226 of the spine 222 and partly located within an interior region of the handle 206.

    [0358] In such embodiments, the power source 218 may be removably located at least partially within the spine 222 and/or handle 206. As shown in FIG. 1, the power source 218 has an elongate portion 218a (i.e. a lower portion as viewed in the figure). In embodiments where the power source 218 is removably located within the spine 222, the elongate portion 218a of the power source 218 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the spine 222, when the power source 218 is located at least partly within the spine 222.

    [0359] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the interior profile 226 of the spine 222 defines a volume Vf corresponding to the fluid supply path between the fluid tank 214 and fluid outlet 212. It will be understood that such a fluid path runs from the fluid tank 214, downwards through volume Vf to the second end 210 of the spine 222 and through a fluid conduit (not shown) to the fluid outlet 212 on the surface treatment head 10. The interior profile 226 also defines a volume VW corresponding to the waste removal path between the suction region 106 and the waste tank 216A. It will be understood that such a waste path runs from the suction region 106 of the surface treatment head 10, through a suction connection arrangement 138 (e.g. a pipe in the embodiment of FIG. 1) and then upwards through volume VW to the waste tank 216A via connection point 223. In other embodiments, part of the fluid supply path and/or waste removal path may be provided within a profile of the spine 222 (e.g. a recess on an outer surface of the spine 222) and another part of the fluid supply path and/or waste removal path may be provided by another component (e.g. a pipe or cover). The interior profile 226 of the spine 222 also defines a volume Vp in which a power supply line (e.g. for supplying power to components below the power source 218) can be located.

    [0360] In the illustrated embodiment, the elongate body 202 also includes a suction source 228 for sucking fluid and/or debris from the suction region 106 to the waste tank 216A. In particular, the suction source 228 is provided as a suction unit having a motor (e.g. a digital motor).

    [0361] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the waste tank 216A is part of a waste tank module 216. The waste tank module 216 also includes a waste tank receiving structure 216B configured to couple the waste tank 216A to the spine 222 of the elongate body 202. The waste tank module 216 defines a volume (i.e. defined by the sum of a volume of the waste tank 216A and a volume of the waste tank receiving structure 216B).

    [0362] In the illustrated embodiment, the suction source 228 is coupled directly to the waste tank module 216 such that it is in fluid communication with the volume defined by the waste tank module 216. In particular, the suction source 228 is coupled to the waste tank module 216 such that a seal is formed between the suction source 228 and the waste tank module 216. In some embodiments, the suction source 228 and/or waste tank module 216 has a seal (e.g. gasket) for this purpose.

    [0363] When the surface treatment tool 200 is assembled, the elongate body 202 is coupled to a bracket arrangement 30 of the surface treatment head 10 via a joint arrangement 230. For example, FIGS. 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8 show a first connecting member 211 for coupling to a second connecting member (not shown) provided at the second end 210 of the elongate body 202 (i.e. a bottom end of the spine 222). The first connecting member 211 is coupled to the bracket arrangement 30 via the joint arrangement 230. The joint arrangement 230 is configured to permit pivoting of the elongate body 202 with respect to the surface treatment head 10 about a first axis 232 (shown in FIG. 8) and about a second axis 234 (shown in FIG. 4). The second axis 234 is perpendicular to the first axis 232.

    [0364] In the illustrated embodiment, the second axis 234 intersects the first axis 232. In addition, the joint arrangement 230 is located below an upper surface of the surface treatment head 10 (i.e. below an upper surface of the cover 25 described below), which helps to keep a height of the surface treatment head 10 low.

    [0365] In alternative embodiments, the first and second axes 232, 234 are spaced apart. For example, one of the first and second axes 232, 234 may be located above the upper surface of the surface treatment head 10.

    [0366] In alternative embodiments, the elongate body 202 is coupled to the surface treatment head 10 (e.g. to the bracket arrangement 30) via a resilient coupling such as a spring or rubber cylinder.

    [0367] In the illustrated embodiment, the joint arrangement 230 is offset from the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the elongate body 202 (i.e. the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the spine 222). In other words, the second end 210 of the elongate body 202 is coupled to the bracket arrangement 30 by a bent/angled portion 236 which is out of alignment with the elongate body 202 (i.e. out of alignment with the spine 222). This enhances manoeuvrability of the surface treatment tool 200.

    [0368] In exemplary embodiments, the joint disclosed in patent application GB2104339.3 may be used. Alternatively a universal joint may be used, or any other suitable joint arrangement.

    [0369] Referring now to FIGS. 3 to 8, the surface treatment head 10 of the surface treatment tool 200 is shown in more detail. The surface treatment head 10 is configured to engage the surface S to be treated and has a first end 12, middle portion 13, second end 14, front edge 16, rear edge 18, and a chassis 20.

    [0370] The surface treatment head 10 has a first treatment component 22 having a body 24 and a first treatment element 26 configured to engage a surface S to be treated. In the illustrated embodiment, the first treatment element 26 is configured for movement with respect to the body 24, and the first treatment component 22 has a driving means 27 (shown in FIG. 1) such as an electric motor (e.g. digital motor) configured to drive the surface treatment element 26 to effect treatment of a surface S to be treated. The body 24 has an annular mount 28 for the driving means 27 which is visible in FIGS. 3 to 7 without the driving means 27 in place. In alternative embodiments, the first treatment element 26 may be configured to move in unison with the body 24 (i.e. may be a static treatment element).

    [0371] In the illustrated embodiment, the first treatment element 26 is formed of a drivable portion 26A coupled to the driving means of the body 24, and a treatment portion 26B coupled to the drivable portion 26A. In some embodiments, the entire first surface treatment element 26 is releasably coupled to the driving means of the body 24 (e.g. for cleaning and/or replacement when dirty and/or worn after use). In other embodiments, the drivable portion 26A is fixed to the driving means of the body 24 and the treatment portion 26B is releasably coupled to the drivable portion 26A (e.g. for cleaning and/or replacement when dirty and/or worn after use).

    [0372] In some embodiments, an intermediate component (e.g. a support plate) is located between the treatment portion 26B and the drivable portion 26A. For example, the treatment portion 26B may be coupled (e.g. releasably) to the intermediate component and/or the intermediate component may be coupled (e.g. releasably) to the drivable portion 26A. In such embodiments, it may be easier to remove the treatment portion 26B from the first treatment component 22 by first de-coupling the intermediate component from the drivable portion 26A, and then de-coupling the treatment portion 26B from the intermediate component. In effect, the intermediate component can be considered a part (e.g. a removable part) of the treatment portion 26B, or a part (e.g. a removable part) of the drivable portion 26A.

    [0373] Such couplings (e.g. releasable couplings) between the treatment portion 26B, drivable portion 26A and/or intermediate component may be of any suitable kind (e.g. hook-and-eye fasteners, magnetic coupling, snap-fit coupling, resilient coupling, threaded coupling, or any other suitable type of releasable coupling).

    [0374] In embodiments where the first treatment element 26 is static with respect to the body 24, the surface treatment element 26 may just be formed of the treatment portion 26B (e.g. the treatment portion 26B may be directly mounted to the body 24, or to an intermediate component directly mounted to the body 24, and the drivable portion 26A may be omitted).

    [0375] The treatment portion 26B may be a pad, brush and/or sponge (e.g. for cleaning) or any other suitable type of element (e.g. elements for alternative types of treatment such as polishing or waxing).

    [0376] The first treatment component 22 has a cover 25 which covers the body 24, driving means 27 and mount 28. The cover 25 is shown in partial cutaway view in FIG. 1, but is omitted from FIGS. 3 to 8 to show the components underneath more clearly. It will be understood that the full cover 25 will correspond substantially to the size and shape of the body 24 in plan view.

    [0377] The first treatment component 22 includes the fluid outlet 212 which is provided proximal the front edge 16 of the first treatment component 22 (e.g. coupled to a front of the body 24 and/or cover 25). In this way, the fluid outlet 212 is configured to apply fluid to a region of the surface to be treated forward of the first surface treatment element 26 with respect to the treatment direction D.sub.t.

    [0378] The surface treatment head 10 also has a second treatment component 100 having a mounting arrangement 102 and a second treatment element 104 configured to engage the surface S to be treated. As will be described in more detail below, the second treatment element 104 in the illustrated embodiment is formed of a rear elongate squeegee blade 104A and a front elongate squeegee blade 104B which define a suction region 106 therebetween. The suction region 106 is configured to suck fluid and/or debris from the surface S to be treated. The suction region 106 is provided to a rear of the first treatment element 26 with respect to the treatment direction D.sub.t (i.e. proximal, but behind the first treatment element 26).

    [0379] As best illustrated in FIG. 4, the first and second ends 12, 14 of the surface treatment head 10 project forward of the middle portion 13 in the treatment direction D.sub.t. In the illustrated embodiment, this is achieved by having a curved front edge 16 and rear edge 18. In alternative embodiments, a rear edge the surface treatment head with respect to a treatment direction of the surface treatment tool comprises a first end, a second end and a middle portion located between the first and second ends, wherein the middle portion of the rear edge projects rearward of the first and second ends with respect to a treatment direction of the surface treatment head. In some embodiment, the front edge may be V-shaped, curved or substantially straight.

    [0380] In the illustrated embodiment, the portions of the first and second treatment components 22, 100 at the first and second ends 12, 14 of the surface treatment head 10 project forward of the portions of the first and second treatment components 22, 100 at the middle portion 13 of the surface treatment head 10. In other words, the front edge 16 of the surface treatment head 10 is defined by a curved front edge of the first treatment component 22, the rear edge 18 of the surface treatment head 10 is defined by a curved rear edge of the second treatment component 100, edges of the first and second treatment components 22, 100 which face each other are also curved (e.g. of complementary profile to each other). In alternative embodiments, the front and/or rear edges 16, 18 are defined by a substantially V-shaped profile in plan view. In alternative embodiments, edges of the first and second treatment components which face each other are substantially straight, or comprise any other desired profile. In alternative embodiments, the rear edge of the second treatment component may be substantially straight, or comprise any other desired profile.

    [0381] In the illustrated embodiment, the first treatment element 26 is of a similar shape to the first treatment component 22 in which the first and second ends project forward of the middle portion in the treatment direction D.sub.t.

    [0382] In other embodiments, the surface treatment head 10, and/or the first and second treatment components 22, 100 and/or the first treatment element 26 are of a different shape in which the first and second ends do not project forward of the middle portion. For example, they may be of substantially rectangular shape (as shown in FIG. 19), triangular, trapezoidal, or of any other suitable shape.

    [0383] In the illustrated embodiment, the body 24 of the first treatment component 22 and the mounting arrangement 102 of the second treatment component 100 form the chassis 20 together with a bracket arrangement 30.

    [0384] With reference to FIG. 3, the bracket arrangement 30 is configured to couple the first and second treatment components 22, 100 together. The bracket arrangement 30 is also configured such that when a load L is applied to the bracket arrangement 30 (e.g. by the elongate body 202), the load L is distributed between the first and second treatment components 22, 100 and applied to the surface S to be treated, such that the entire load is transferred to the surface S via the first and second treatment components 22, 100. In particular, a first predetermined amount L1 of the load L is applied to the first treatment component 22 and a second predetermined amount L2 of the load L is applied to the second treatment component 100. Although FIG. 3 shows two arrows labelled L1 and two arrows labelled L2 (i.e. each arrow shown on a different arm of the bracket arrangement 30), it will be understood that the first predetermined amount L1 is the total amount of load L applied to the first treatment component 22 (i.e. the sum of the loads applied via the arrows marked L1 in FIG. 3) and the second predetermined amount L2 is the total amount of load L applied to the second treatment component 100 (i.e. the sum of the loads applied via the arrows marked L2 in FIG. 3).

    [0385] In some embodiments, the first predetermined amount L1 is in the range of 30 to 70% (e.g. 40 to 60% or 45% to 55%) of the total load L applied to the bracket arrangement 30. In some embodiments, the second predetermined amount L2 is in the range of 30 to 70% (e.g. 40 to 60% or 45% to 55%) of the total load L applied to the bracket arrangement. For example, 50% of the load L applied to the bracket arrangement 30 is transferred to the first treatment component 22 and 50% of the load L applied to the bracket arrangement 30 is transferred to the second treatment component 100.

    [0386] In the illustrated embodiment, a contact plane P (as shown in FIG. 5) of the surface treatment head 10 is defined only by the first and second treatment elements 26, 104. In other words, when the surface treatment head is resting on a surface S, the first and second treatment elements 26, 104 are the only parts of the surface treatment head 10 that contact the surface S. In this way, the entire load L applied to the bracket arrangement 30 is transferred to the first and second treatment elements 26, 104. Put another way, the sum of the first and second predetermined amounts L1, L2 equals the load L applied to the bracket arrangement 30. This improves contact between each of the first and second treatment elements 26, 104 and the surface S to be treated, which improves performance of the surface treatment head 10.

    [0387] In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket arrangement 30 has a first connection structure 32 coupled to the first treatment component 22. The first connection structure 32 includes a first arm 32A and a second arm 32B each coupled to the first treatment component 22 along a first transverse axis A.sub.t1 (as shown in FIG. 4) extending perpendicular to a treatment direction D.sub.t of the surface treatment head 10. In particular, the first treatment component has an upper surface (i.e. an upper surface 34 of the body 24) and arm recesses 35A, 35B provided in the upper surface 34. The first and second arms 32A, 32B are coupled to the first treatment component 22 within the respective arm recesses 32A, 32B such that the first and second arms 32A, 32B are partly located below the upper surface 34. Although not clearly visible in the figures, the cover 25 described above also has arm an upper surface and arm recesses provided in the upper surface of the cover 25 such that the first and second arms 32A, 32B are partly located below the upper surface of the cover 25. In alternative embodiments, the first and second arms 32A, 32B are coupled to an upper surface (e.g. the upper surface 34 of the body 24, or an upper surface of the cover 25).

    [0388] The first and second arms 32A, 32B are arranged on either side of a central axis A.sub.c (see FIG. 4) of the surface treatment head 10 (which also corresponds to a central axis of the first treatment component 22). The central axis A.sub.c extends along the treatment direction D.sub.t of the surface treatment head 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second arms 32A 32B are symmetrically positioned with respect to the central axis A.sub.c. In the illustrated embodiment, the first transverse axis A.sub.t1 extends through a midpoint of the driving means 27. For example, the midpoint of the driving means may be a geometric midpoint or a midpoint with respect to a centre of gravity of the driving means 27.

    [0389] In some embodiments, the transverse axis A.sub.t1 is located proximal a midpoint of the driving means, optionally extending behind a midpoint of the driving means (i.e. towards a rear of the first treatment component. In some embodiments, the first transverse axis A.sub.t1 extends within a centre third of the first treatment component 22, between a frontmost and rearmost point of the first treatment component 22, e.g. the first transverse axis A.sub.t1 defines a midpoint between a frontmost and rearmost point of the first treatment component 22.

    [0390] The bracket arrangement 30 also has a second connection structure 36 coupled to the second treatment component 100. The second connection structure 36 includes a third arm 36A and a fourth arm 36B each coupled to an upper surface 136 of the second treatment component 100 (i.e. an upper surface of the mounting arrangement 102) along a second transverse axis At2 extending perpendicular to the treatment direction D.sub.t of the surface treatment head 10. In alternative embodiments, the third and fourth arms 36A, 36B are embedded below the upper surface 136 of the second treatment component 100 (e.g. in arm recesses similar to those described above in relation to the first treatment component 22).

    [0391] In the illustrated embodiment, the second transverse axis At2 is in alignment with the joint arrangement 230. In some embodiment, the second transverse axis At2 extends within a centre third of the second treatment component 100, between a frontmost and rearmost point of the second treatment component 100, e.g. the second transverse axis At2 defines a midpoint between a frontmost and rearmost point of the second treatment component 100.

    [0392] The third and fourth arms 36A, 36B are arranged on either side of the central axis A.sub.c of the surface treatment head 10 (which also corresponds to a central axis of the second treatment component 100). In the illustrated embodiment, the third and fourth arms 36A, 36B are symmetrically positioned with respect to the central axis A.sub.c.

    [0393] It will be understood that the first to fourth arms 32A, 32B, 36A, 36B spread out the application of load L from the bracket arrangement 30 across the respective first and second treatment components 22, 100. For example, half of the first predetermined amount L1 is applied to the first treatment component 22 by the first arm 32A and the other half of the first predetermined amount L1 is applied to the first treatment component 22 by the second arm 32B. Similarly, half of the second predetermined amount L2 is applied to the second treatment component 100 by the third arm 36A and the other half of the second predetermined amount L2 is applied to the second treatment component 100 by the fourth arm 36B.

    [0394] In alternative embodiments, the first connection structure 32 has a single arm or more than two arms and/or the second connection structure 36 has a single arm or more than two arms.

    [0395] As best illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 9, the bracket arrangement 30 is configured to couple the first and second treatment components 22, 100 together such that relative movement therebetween is permitted in a direction D.sub.v perpendicular to the surface S to be treated. For example, where the surface S is horizontal (and thus the direction D.sub.v perpendicular to the surface S is vertical), vertical movement between the first and second treatment components 22, 100 is permitted. This facilitates engagement of each treatment component 22, 100 with a surface S having varying heights (e.g. the stepped surface S of FIG. 9). In other words, as the surface treatment head 10 moves over an uneven/undulating surface S, the first and second treatment components 22, 100 can rise or fall with respect to each other as they pass over undulations in the surface S.

    [0396] In the illustrated embodiment, the first treatment component 22 is pivotally coupled to the bracket arrangement 30 and the second treatment component 100 is pivotally coupled to the bracket arrangement 30. The bracket arrangement 30 is also configured to be pivotally coupled to the elongate body 202 (i.e. by virtue of the joint arrangement 220). In this way, by simultaneous pivoting of the first and second treatment components 22, 100 in the same direction relative to the bracket arrangement 30, as well as pivoting of the bracket arrangement 30 relative to the elongate body 202, linear movement between the first and second treatment components 22, 100 (i.e. in direction D.sub.v) is achieved.

    [0397] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first to fourth arms 32A, 32B, 36A, 36B includes a pivot pin 38. The pivot pins 38 are received in clamps 40 of the respective treatment components 22, 100 (see FIG. 7). The clamps 40 prevent linear movement of the pivot pins 38 relative to the respective treatment components 22, 100, but permit rotation of the pivot pins 38 within the respective clamps 40. In this way, pivoting of the first and second treatment components 22, 100 relative to the bracket arrangement 30 is achieved.

    [0398] Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, the surface treatment head 10 has a limiting mechanism 42 configured to limit relative movement between the first and second treatment components 22, 100. In particular, the first connection structure 32 and first treatment component 22 are configured to interact to define a permitted range of movement (i.e. pivoting) therebetween. Similarly, the second connection structure 36 and second treatment component 100 are configured to interact to define a permitted range of movement (i.e. pivoting) therebetween.

    [0399] As best illustrated in FIG. 6, the limiting mechanism 42 includes abutment surfaces 44 on the first treatment component 22 configured to abut the first connection structure 32 (i.e. the first and second arms 32A, 32B) to limit relative movement between the first treatment component 22 and the bracket arrangement 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the abutment surfaces 44 of the first treatment component are configured to abut opposing sides of the first and second arms 32A, 32B to define a maximum and minimum of the permitted range of movement.

    [0400] In the illustrated embodiment, each abutment surface 44 is angled relative to the surface contact plane P defined by the first treatment element 26. While FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate the first arm 32A in a middle position of the range of movement, it will be understood that when the first arm 32A is pivoted so that it abuts one of the abutment surfaces 44, the first arm 32A and respective abutment surface 44 would be parallel to each other.

    [0401] With reference to FIG. 5, the limiting mechanism 42 also includes similar abutment surfaces 44 on the second treatment component 100 configured to abut the second connection structure 36 (i.e. the third and fourth arms 36A, 36B) to limit relative movement between the second treatment component 100 and the bracket arrangement 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the abutment surfaces 44 of the second treatment component 100 are configured to abut opposing sides of the third and fourth arms 36A, 36B to define a maximum and minimum of the permitted range of movement.

    [0402] It will be understood that since linear movement between the first and second treatment components 22, 100 (i.e. in direction D.sub.v) is achieved by simultaneous pivoting of the first and second treatment components 22, 100 relative to the bracket arrangement, having abutment surfaces 44 of the limiting mechanism 42 which limit pivoting between the respective treatment components 22, 100 and bracket arrangement also limits relative linear movement between the first and second treatment components 22, 100 (i.e. in direction D.sub.v).

    [0403] In some embodiments, the limiting mechanism 42 is adjustable. For example, the abutment surfaces 44 may be movable to adjust the extent to which the respective treatment component 22, 100 is free to pivot with respect to the bracket arrangement 30. In such embodiments, a distance between the abutment surfaces 44 and the respective arms 32A, 32B, 36A, 36B may be adjustable. For example, each abutment surface 44 may be coupled to the respective treatment component 22, 100 via an attachment mechanism (e.g. having complementary threads), and the distance between each abutment surface 44 and the respective arm 32A, 32B, 36A, 36B is adjustable by adjustment of the attachment mechanism (e.g. by relative rotation between the complementary threads). In such embodiments, each abutment surface 44 may include a bolt, screw or other threaded fastener coupled to a complementary threaded bore in the respective treatment component 22, 100, or vice versa. In some embodiments, each abutment surface 44 comprises a bolt, screw or other threaded fastener (e.g. the bolt, screw or threaded fastener directly abuts against the respective arm 32A, 32B, 36A, 36B).

    [0404] Alternatively (or additionally), an angle of the abutment surfaces 44 relative to the surface contact plane P may be adjustable.

    [0405] In the illustrated embodiment (see FIG. 6) the first arm 32A comprises abutment surfaces 33 for abutment with abutment surfaces 44 of the first treatment component 22. In the illustrated embodiment the abutment surfaces 33 of the first arm are parallel to each other. In alternative embodiments, the abutment surfaces may be angled with respect to each other. A similar arrangement is provided at all the arms 32B, 36A, 36B.

    [0406] It will be appreciated that any suitable configuration of corresponding abutment surfaces can be used to achieve the desired limiting effect. For example, pivot pins 38 may be fixed with respect to the respective arm and comprise abutment surfaces configured to engage corresponding abutment surfaces of the respective treatment component.

    [0407] Referring now to FIGS. 10 to 12, an alternative surface treatment head 10 for the surface treatment tool 200 is shown. Common features between the surface treatment heads of FIGS. 3 to 9 and 10 to 12 are given the same reference numeral.

    [0408] It will be understood that as the surface treatment head 10 of FIGS. 3 to 9 is moved along the surface S in the treatment direction D.sub.t, friction between the respective surface treatment elements 26, 104 and the surface S may urge the rearmost treatment component (i.e. the second treatment component 100) to pivot to such an extent that the rearmost surface treatment element (i.e. second surface treatment element 104) lifts or disengages from the surface S to some extent. This may cause a seal between a rear of the suction region 106 and the surface S to be broken. This may also lead to increased drag making it harder to push the surface treatment head 10 in the treatment direction D.sub.t,

    [0409] In the embodiment of FIGS. 10 to 12, the surface treatment head 10 is configured to restrict pivoting of the first and second treatment components 22, 100 relative to each other to a pre-determined range of movement. This inhibits such an undesirable pivoting of the second treatment component 100 when in use. In particular, the second treatment component 100 has projections 140 (e.g. tabs) configured to co-operate with the first treatment component 22 to limit relative movement therebetween. In alternative embodiments, the first treatment component 22 has projections 140 which are configured to co-operate with the second treatment component 22 to limit movement therebetween.

    [0410] In the embodiment of FIGS. 10 to 12, the projections 140 co-operate with the upper surface 34 of the first treatment component 22 to limit pivoting of the second treatment component 100 out of engagement with the surface S. In alternative embodiments, the projections 140 may co-operate with a lower surface of the first treatment component 22 (or the second treatment component 100 when the projections 140 are provided on the first treatment component 22). In alternative embodiments, the projections 140 are received in corresponding recesses in the first treatment component 22 (or the second treatment component 100 when the projections 140 are provided on the first treatment component 22). In some embodiments, the projections 140 are received in corresponding channels in the first treatment component 22 (or the second treatment component 100 when the projections 140 are provided on the first treatment component 22). The projection 140 is configured to move along the corresponding channel, thereby permitting relative linear movement between the first and second treatment components, but limiting relative pivotal movement.

    [0411] With reference to FIG. 12, it will be understood that since the projections 140 contact the upper surface 34 of the first treatment component 22, pivoting of the second treatment component 100 in the opposite direction (e.g. in a clockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 12) is not inhibited (e.g. when this is necessary for tracking an angle change in the surface S). In alternative embodiments, pivoting in both directions (i.e. clockwise and anti-clockwise as viewed in FIG. 12) is inhibited.

    [0412] Because of the curved shape of the second surface treatment element 104 (i.e. curved shape of squeegee blades 104A, 104B), the portions proximal the first and second ends 12, 14 of the surface treatment head may have a greater frictional force applied as they move over surface S. Therefore, in the embodiment of FIGS. 10 to 12 the projections 140 are provided proximal the first and second ends 12, 14 of the surface treatment head 10.

    [0413] In alternative embodiments, a different mechanism to inhibit pivoting other than the projections 140 is provided. Such an alternative mechanism to inhibit pivoting, but permit relative vertical movement, can be of any suitable type including one or more structures 140 on a first of the treatment components 22, 100 configured to co-operate with one or more complementary structures 141 of the other treatment component 22, 100 (e.g. to co-operate by abutting, or by one structure 140 being received at least partly within a complementary structure 141).

    [0414] Referring now to FIGS. 13, 15 and 16, the second treatment component 100, which defines a squeegee assembly, is shown in more detail.

    [0415] As a reminder, the squeegee assembly 100 has a rear elongate squeegee blade 104A and a front elongate squeegee blade 104B which define a suction region 106 therebetween.

    [0416] The rear squeegee blade 104A has a fixed portion 108A secured by the mounting arrangement 102. Similarly, the front squeegee blade 104B has a fixed portion 108B secured by the mounting arrangement 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed portions 108A, 108B are secured to the mounting arrangement 102 by lugs 110 of the mounting arrangement 102 and corresponding receivers 111 (e.g. apertures) in the respective squeegee blade 104A, 104B. In alternative embodiments, the squeegee blades 104A, 104B have lugs 110 and the mounting arrangement 102 has corresponding receivers 111. In alternative embodiments, other fasteners are used, and/or the mounting arrangement 102 is configured to grip the fixed portion 108 (e.g. to hold via an interference fit/friction).

    [0417] The rear squeegee blade 104A also has a flexible wiper 112A configured to contact the surface S to be treated when in use (e.g. as illustrated in FIG. 13). Similarly, the front squeegee blade 104B has a flexible wiper 112B configured to contact the surface S to be treated when in use (e.g. as illustrated in FIG. 13).

    [0418] With reference to FIG. 16, the rear squeegee blade 104A has a first end 114A and a second end 116A and a length extending therebetween. The fixed portion 108A and flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A extend between the first and second ends 114A, 116A. When viewed from the sectional side view of FIG. 13, it can be seen that the rear squeegee blade 104A has a front surface 118A facing in a generally forward direction (i.e. with respect to the treatment direction D.sub.t), and a rear surface 120A facing in a generally rearward direction D.sub.r. The rear squeegee blade 104A also has a first edge 122A proximal the fixed portion 108A and a second edge 124A proximal the flexible wiper 112A (i.e. in contact with surface S in use). The first and second edges 122A, 124A define a height H1 of the rear squeegee blade 104A.

    [0419] Similarly, the front squeegee blade 104B has a first end 114B and a second end 116B and a length extending therebetween. The fixed portion 108B and flexible wiper 112B of the front squeegee blade 104B extend between the first and second ends 114B, 116B. When viewed from the sectional side view of FIG. 13, it can be seen that the front squeegee blade 104B has a front surface 118B facing in a generally forward direction (i.e. with respect to the treatment direction D.sub.t), and a rear surface 120B facing in a generally rearward direction D.sub.r. The front squeegee blade 104B also has a first edge 122B proximal the fixed portion 108B and a second edge 124B proximal the flexible wiper 112B (i.e. in contact with surface S in use). The first and second edges 122B, 124B define a height H2 of the front squeegee blade 104B.

    [0420] As will be described in more detail below, the squeegee assembly 100 has a first support formation 126 configured to cooperate with the rear squeegee blade 104A such that at least a portion of the flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A is arranged to extend in a generally rearward direction D.sub.r and such that deflection of at least said portion of the flexible wiper 112A in a generally forward direction D.sub.t is inhibited.

    [0421] As shown in FIG. 13, the front surface 118A of the rear squeegee blade 104A forms a contact angle ?.sub.1 with the surface S to be treated when the squeegee assembly 100 rests on the surface S. The first support formation 126 is configured to cooperate with the rear squeegee blade 104A such that the contact angle ?.sub.1 is an acute angle, and such that deflection of the flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A such that the contact angle ?.sub.1 is greater than 90? is inhibited. In the illustrated embodiment, the contact angle ?.sub.1 is approximately 45?. In some embodiments, the support formation 126 is configured to cooperate with the squeegee blade 104A such that the contact angle ?.sub.1 varies along a length of the squeegee blade, e.g. such that the contact angle ?.sub.1 increases proximal the first and/or second ends of the squeegee blade 104A.

    [0422] To orient the rear squeegee blade 104A, the first support formation 126 is configured to cooperate with at least a portion of the front surface 118A and a portion of the rear surface 120A of the rear squeegee blade 104A. In particular, the first support formation 126 includes a front support structure 126a configured to contact the front surface 118A of the rear squeegee blade 104A and a rear support structure 126b configured to contact the rear surface 120A of the rear squeegee blade 104A.

    [0423] It will be understood that the front support structure 126a is sufficient to cooperate with the front surface 118A of the rear squeegee blade 104A such that the flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A extends in the generally rearward direction D.sub.r and such that deflection of the flexible wiper 112A in the generally forward direction (i.e. the treatment direction D.sub.t) is inhibited. However, with the addition of the rear support structure 126b, the flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A is also inhibited from flexing further in the rearward direction D.sub.r, even if a load is applied to the rear squeegee blade 104A). In other words, the front and rear support structures 126a, 126b together maintain a contact angle ?.sub.1 within a predetermined range, which allows a suitable contact angle ?.sub.1 to be maintained throughout a wide range of operating conditions and loads applied to the rear squeegee blade 104A.

    [0424] In alternative embodiments, only the rear support structure 126b is provided (i.e. the front support structure 126a is not present). This provides a simple means for controlling the degree of deflection of the rear squeegee blade 104A when in use.

    [0425] In the illustrated embodiment, the front and rear support structures 126a, 126b each have a guide projection in the form of a guide wall 128a, 128b which contacts the respective surface of the rear squeegee blade 104A along a continuous line of contact along the length of the rear squeegee blade 104A. The guide walls 128a, 128b are angled to extend in the generally rearward direction D.sub.r (i.e. the guide walls 128a, 128b form an acute angle to the surface S which is within the predetermined range of the contact angle ?.sub.1). As can be seen in FIG. 13, the guide walls 128a, 128b are also configured to contact the rear squeegee blade 104A along a portion of a height of the rear squeegee blade 104. In this way, the guide walls 128a, 128b are arranged to contact an area of the rear squeegee blade 104A.

    [0426] In some embodiments, the front and/or rear support structure 126a,b is provided by a rigid structure, e.g. the guide wall 128a, 128b. In some embodiments, the front and/or rear support structure 126a,b is provided by another squeegee or similar flexible component.

    [0427] In some embodiments, one or both of the front and rear support structures 126a, 126b includes a plurality of guide projections (e.g. a plurality of guide walls) which contact the respective surface of the rear squeegee blade 104A at one or more discrete points (e.g. a series of discrete points).

    [0428] In the illustrated embodiment, the first support formation 126 is configured to cooperate with the rear squeegee blade 104A such that the flexible wiper 112A is arranged to extend in the generally rearward direction D.sub.r along the entire length of the rear squeegee blade 104A, and such that deflection of the flexible wiper 112A in the generally forward direction (i.e. the treatment direction D.sub.t) is inhibited along the entire length of the rear squeegee blade 104A. In other words, the guide walls 128a, 128b of the front and rear support structures 126a, 126b of the first support formation 126 extend along the majority, e.g. substantially all, of the length of the rear squeegee blade 104A (e.g. from (e.g. proximal) the first end 114A to (e.g. proximal) the second end 116A of the rear squeegee blade 104A).

    [0429] It will be understood that portions of the flexible wiper 112A proximal the first and second ends 114A, 116A are most vulnerable to flexing in unwanted directions when the rear squeegee blade 104A is moved on the surface S. Therefore, in some embodiments, only a portion of the flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A proximal the first end 114A and/or a portion of the flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A proximal the second end 116A is arranged to extend in the generally rearward direction D.sub.r and inhibited from flexing forwards. In other words, the guide walls 128a, 128b of the first support formation 126 may be provided only proximal the first and second ends 114A, 116A, with a central portion 130A of the flexible wiper 112A (i.e. a portion between the first and second ends 114A, 116A) unsupported.

    [0430] In the embodiment of FIG. 13, the flexible wiper 112B of the front squeegee blade 104B is free to flex in either direction, at least at the point of the cross-section along line C-C of FIG. 4 (i.e. at a central portion 130B of the front squeegee blade 104B). In other words, while there is a front support formation 132 in FIG. 13 having front and rear support structures 132a, 132b configured to contact the respective front and rear surfaces 118B, 120B, these front and rear support structures 132a, 132b only contact the fixed portion 108B and not the flexible wiper 112B of the front squeegee blade 104B (at least in cross-section along line C-C). In this embodiment, the flexible wiper 112B of the front squeegee blade 104B is caused to extend in a substantially rearward direction due to the load applied to the squeegee assembly 100 and the forward movement of the surface treatment head 10. However, a second support formation (e.g. a support formation similar to the first support formation 126 and variants described above) may be provided proximal the first and second ends 114B, 116B of the front squeegee blade 104B, or along the entire length (as described below with reference to FIG. 14).

    [0431] In the embodiment of FIG. 14, the squeegee assembly 100 has an alternative second support formation 132 configured to cooperate with the front squeegee blade 104B such that at least a portion of the flexible wiper 112B of the front squeegee blade 104B is arranged to extend in a generally rearward direction D.sub.r and such that deflection of at least said portion of the flexible wiper 112B in the generally forward direction D.sub.t is inhibited.

    [0432] The front surface 118B of the front squeegee blade 104B forms a contact angle ?.sub.2 with the surface S to be treated when the squeegee assembly 100 rests on the surface S. The second support formation 132 is configured to cooperate with the front squeegee blade 104B such that the contact angle ?.sub.2 is an acute angle, and such that deflection of the flexible wiper 11213 of the front squeegee blade 10413 such that the contact angle ?.sub.2 is greater than 90? is inhibited. In this way, the contact angle ?.sub.2 remains within a predetermined range. In the illustrated embodiment, the contact angle ?.sub.2 is approximately 45?.

    [0433] In the embodiment of FIG. 14, the contact angles ?.sub.1 and ?.sub.2 are approximately equal. In alternative embodiments, the contact angles ?.sub.1 and ?.sub.2 are different to each other (although both still acute angles).

    [0434] The second support formation 132 includes a front support structure 132a configured to contact the front surface 1188 of the front squeegee blade 10413 and a rear support structure 132b configured to contact the rear surface 12013 of the front squeegee blade 10413. In the embodiment of FIG. 14, the rear support structure 132b of the second support formation 132 only contacts the fixed portion 10813 and not the flexible wiper 1128 of the front squeegee blade 10413. In alternative embodiments, the rear support structure 132b of the second support formation 132 may contact the flexible wiper 1128 of the front squeegee blade 10413 in a similar manner to the way in which the rear support structure 126b of the first support formation 126 contacts the flexible wiper 112A of the rear squeegee blade 104A.

    [0435] In the embodiment of FIG. 14, the front support structure 132a of the second support formation 132 has a guide projection in the form of a guide wall 134 which contacts the front surface 1188 of the front squeegee blade 10413 along a continuous line of contact along the length of the front squeegee blade 10413, and the guide wall 134 is angled to extend in the generally rearward direction D.sub.r (i.e. the guide wall 134 forms an angle to the surface S which is within the predetermined range of the contact angle ?.sub.2). As can be seen in FIG. 14, the guide wall 134 is also configured to contact the front squeegee blade 10413 along a portion of a height of the front squeegee blade 10413. In this way, the guide wall 134 is arranged to contact an area of the front squeegee blade 10413.

    [0436] In some embodiments, the front support structure 132a of the front squeegee blade 10413 includes a plurality of guide projections (e.g. a plurality of guide walls) which contact the front surface 11813 of the front squeegee blade 10413 at one or more discrete points (e.g. a series of discrete points).

    [0437] In the illustrated embodiment, the second support formation 132 is configured to cooperate with the front squeegee blade 10413 such that the flexible wiper 1128 is arranged to extend in the generally rearward direction D.sub.r along the entire length of the front squeegee blade 10413, and such that deflection of the flexible wiper 1128 in the generally forward direction (i.e. the treatment direction D.sub.t) is inhibited along the entire length of the front squeegee blade 10413. In other words, the guide wall 134 of the second support formation 132 extends along the majority, e.g. substantially all, of the length of the front squeegee blade 104B (e.g. from (e.g. proximal) the first end 14B to (e.g. proximal) the second end 116B of the front squeegee blade 104B). In this way, the guide wall 134 of the second support formation 132 is visible in the cross-section along line C-C of FIG. 4 (i.e. along the central axis A.sub.c of the surface treatment head 10).

    [0438] In alternative embodiments, only a portion of the flexible wiper 112B of the front squeegee blade 104B proximal the first end 114B and/or a portion of the flexible wiper 112B of the front squeegee blade 104B proximal the second end 116B is arranged to extend in the generally rearward direction D.sub.r and inhibited from flexing forwards. In other words, the guide walls 134 of the second support formation 132 may be provided only proximal the first and second ends 114B, 116B, with a central portion 130B of the flexible wiper 112B (i.e. a portion between the first and second ends 114B, 116B) being free to move in either direction.

    [0439] Referring now to FIG. 15, the rear and front elongated squeegee blades 104A, 104B are coupled together to form a continuously sealed suction region 106, to improve suction performance (e.g. as compared to an unsealed suction region). In particular, the rear and front squeegee blades 104A, 104B are gripped together at the first ends 114A, 114B and at the second ends 116A, 116B, for example by the mounting arrangement 102.

    [0440] In some embodiments, the rear and front squeegee blades 104A, 104B are arranged to contact each other in use at the respective ends 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B. For example, the first and second ends 114B, 116B of the front squeegee blade 104B may be urged backwards towards the first and second ends 114A, 116A of the rear squeegee blade 104A when the squeegee assembly 100 is driven forwards in the treatment direction D.sub.t. In such embodiments, the rear and front squeegee blades 104A, 104B may not be gripped together at the ends 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B. For example, when the squeegee assembly 100 is lifted from the surface the rear and front squeegee blades 104A, 104B may be spaced apart from each other, or the rear and front squeegee blades 104A, 104B may meet at a single point at each end 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B by virtue of not being parallel to each other at the ends 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B.

    [0441] In some embodiments, the suction region 106 is defined by a resilient member formed as a continuous loop, and the resilient member includes the rear and front elongate squeegee blades 104A, 104B. In other words, the first ends 114A, 114B may be integrally formed and the second ends 116A, 116B may be integrally formed.

    [0442] Referring now to FIG. 16, the front support structure 132b of the second support formation 132 is omitted to show the front squeegee blade 104B more clearly. Proximal the first and second ends 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B, the fixed portion 108B of the front elongate squeegee blade 104B is mounted further from the surface S to be treated than the fixed portion 108A of the rear elongated squeegee blade 104B (i.e. when the squeegee assembly 100 is resting on the surface S in use). This inhibits the front squeegee blade 104B from passing underneath the rear squeegee blade 104A and separating the rear squeegee blade 104A (i.e. the second edge 124A of the rear squeegee blade 104B) from the ground. Put another way, this inhibits breakage of a seal between the suction region 106 and the surface S.

    [0443] In some embodiments, the first and second ends 114B, 116B of the front elongate squeegee blade 104B are mounted further from the surface S than the first and second ends 114A, 116A of the rear elongated squeegee blade 104A by a distance in the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, e.g. in the range of 0.75 mm to 1.5 mm, e.g. substantially 1 mm.

    [0444] In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting arrangement 102 has a series of lugs 110 and the front squeegee blade 104B has a corresponding series of receivers 111 (e.g. apertures) configured to receive the lugs 110. Proximal the first and second ends 114B, 116B of the front elongated squeegee blade 104B, when the front elongate squeegee blade 104B is mounted to the mounting arrangement 102, the lugs 110 of the mounting arrangement 102 and receivers 111 of the front squeegee blade 104B are located further from the surface S than those lugs 110 and receivers 111 proximal the central portion 130B of the front elongate squeegee blade 104B (i.e. when the squeegee assembly 100 is resting on the surface S in use).

    [0445] In alternative embodiments, proximal the first and second ends 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B of the respective elongated squeegee blades 104A, 104B, the unflexed height H2 of the front elongate squeegee blade 104B is less than the unflexed height H1 of the rear squeegee blade 104A. In other words, the height H2 may gradually reduce towards the first and second ends 114B, 116B. In such embodiments, the height H2 of the front elongate squeegee blade 104B proximal the first and second ends 114B, 116B is less than the height H1 of the rear elongated squeegee blade 104A by an amount in the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, e.g. in the range of 0.75 mm to 1.5 mm, e.g. substantially 1 mm.

    [0446] In some embodiments, the squeegee blades 104A, 104B are releasable from the mounting arrangement 102 (i.e. by disengagement of the receivers 111 in the squeegee blades 104A, 104B with the lugs 110 of the mounting arrangement 102). In order to do so, the front support structure 132a of the second support formation 132 has to be removed (or at least flexed forwards/upwards), and/or the rear support structure 126b of the first support formation 126 has to be removed (or at least flexed rearwards/upwards). Therefore, one or more of these support structures 132A, 126b are removable. In some embodiments, one or more of the support structures 132A, 126b are flexible. In the illustrated embodiments, the lugs 110 are coupled to parts of the mounting arrangement 102 within an interior of the suction region 106 (e.g. to the front support structure 126a of the first support formation 126, and the rear support structure 132b of the second support structure 132). In alternative embodiments, the lugs 110 may be coupled to the parts of the mounting arrangement 102 outside of the suction region 106 (e.g. to the front support structure 132a of the second support formation 132 and the rear support structure 126b of the first support formation 126). In the illustrated embodiments, the lugs 110 have a hooked shape, which allows the squeegee blades 104A, 10413 to be held in place during assembly.

    [0447] In the illustrated embodiments, the rear support structure 132b of the second support formation 132 is fixedly coupled to the front support structure 126a of the first support formation 126. In this way, once the front support structure 132a of the second support formation 132 and or the rear support structure 126b of the first support formation 126 has been removed, the squeegee blades 104A, 10413 can be removed together as one unit with the front support structure 126a of the first support formation 126, and the rear support structure 132b of the second support structure 132 (e.g. for removal and replacement of the squeegee blades 104A, 10413).

    [0448] As mentioned above, in the illustrated embodiment the first and second ends 114A, 1148, 116A, 1168 of each squeegee blade 104A, 10413 project forwards of the respective central portions 130A, 13013 of the squeegee blades 104A, 10413. In this way, fluid is funnelled towards the central portions 130A, 13013 as the squeegee assembly 100 is moved forwards in the treatment direction D.sub.t. It will be understood that the profile of the squeegee blades 104A, 10413 in the squeegee assembly 100 is complementary to the profile of the first treatment element 26 (particularly the front squeegee blade 10413 which is provided proximal the first surface treatment element), to provide a compact arrangement and good uptake of fluid and/or debris displaced by the first treatment element 26.

    [0449] In some embodiments, the front squeegee blade 10413 is shaped to form openings when in use to permit fluid to enter the suction region 106 when the squeegee assembly 100 is moved in the treatment direction D.sub.t. For example, the openings may be formed as cutaway portions in the second edge 1248 of the front squeegee blade 10413. The cutaway portions may be covered by sealing flaps which are displaced when the front squeegee blade 10413 is moved in the treatment direction D.sub.t to form the openings (i.e. the flaps extends beyond the second edge 12413 to create openings when in use), and which move to cover the respective cutaway portions when passing over uneven ground, to provide an improved seal between the front squeegee blade 104B and the surface S to be treated. Alternatively, the front surface 118B of the flexible wiper 112B of the front squeegee blade 104B may have corrugations which leads to the formation of openings (i.e. between the corrugations) when the flexible wiper 112B is angled rearwards as in the illustrated figures.

    [0450] In the illustrated embodiment, the squeegee assembly 100 is configured such that a load L2 applied to the mounting arrangement 102 is applied to the surface S to be treated exclusively by the flexible wipers 112A, 112B of the squeegee blades 104A, 104B. In other words, there are no wheels or other components which engage the surface S to be treated, which improves the contact of the flexible wipers 112A, 112B with the surface S and streamlines the squeegee assembly 100.

    [0451] With reference to FIG. 1, the squeegee assembly 100 is coupled to a suction connection arrangement 138 configured to connect the suction region 106 to the suction source 228 of the surface treatment tool 200. The suction connection arrangement 138 is illustrated in FIG. 1 as a length of hose/pipe, but may alternatively be any other suitable structure.

    [0452] Referring now to FIGS. 3 to 8, 10, 11, 17 and 18, the first surface treatment element 26 defines a treatment area 48 of the surface S to be treated (e.g. as best viewed in FIG. 17). In the illustrated embodiments, since the first surface treatment element 26 is moveable, the treatment area 48 corresponds to the area defined by the first surface treatment element 26 throughout its full range of movement (i.e. taking the position of the chassis 20 of the surface treatment head 10 to be fixed). In other words, the treatment area 48 corresponds to the area of the surface S which is treated by the first surface treatment element 26 during its full range of movement (i.e. when the chassis 20 remains in a constant position with respect to the surface S). Put another way, the perimeter 50 of the treatment area 48 corresponds to a boundary of movement of the first surface treatment element 26. The first surface treatment element 26 does not move beyond this boundary (i.e. taking the position of the chassis 20 to be fixed with respect to the surface S).

    [0453] As mentioned above, the surface treatment head 10 of FIGS. 3 to 11 has a driving means 27 configured to drive movement of the first surface treatment element 26 relative to the chassis 20. In the illustrated embodiments, the driving means 27 includes an eccentric drive mechanism configured such that the first surface treatment element 26 engages the surface S to be treated in a cyclical motion in which at least portion of the first surface treatment element 26 faces in substantially the same direction throughout the cyclical motion.

    [0454] For example, the front portion of the first surface treatment element 26 faces substantially forwards throughout the cyclical motion. The eccentric drive mechanism is not shown on the figures, but it will be understood to consist of an arrangement of one or more shafts and cam arrangements coupled to the driving means (e.g. located in recesses 29 of the drivable portion 26A of the first treatment element 26 below the mount 28, as illustrated in FIG. 8). For example, the drive mechanism as disclosed in patent application GB2104339.3 may be used, or any other suitable drive mechanism.

    [0455] In particular, the eccentric drive mechanism of the driving means 27 is configured to drive the first surface treatment element 26 so that each point on the first surface treatment element 26 moves along a circular path, wherein the circular paths each have a unique centre point but a common radius dimension.

    [0456] In alternative embodiments, a different type of movement is provided (e.g. the first surface treatment element 26 may rotate or reciprocate linearly).

    [0457] In alternative embodiments, the first surface treatment element 26 is static with respect to the chassis 20 (or at least with respect to the body 24), and the treatment area 48 corresponds to the area of the first surface treatment element 26 which is configured to contact the surface S to be treated.

    [0458] As will be described in more detail below, the chassis 20 of the surface treatment head has a plurality of guide portions 46 which are configured to dampen impact of the surface treatment head with other structures when in use. In the illustrated embodiments, the guide portions 46 are configured to extend beyond the perimeter 50 of the treatment area 48 (e.g. when the surface treatment head is viewed in a plan view as in FIGS. 4, 11 and 17). In other words, the guide portions 46 extend beyond the perimeter 50 of the treatment area 48 in a direction parallel to the surface S to be treated). In this way, the first surface treatment element 26 is inhibited from hitting or scuffing any adjacent structure(s) such as walls or furniture when the surface treatment head 10 is moved close to the adjacent structure(s).

    [0459] In other embodiments, the guide portions 46 extend up to, but not beyond, the perimeter 50 of the treatment area 48, which may provide a similar effect.

    [0460] In alternative embodiments, the guide portions are provided within the perimeter of the treatment portion, which also inhibits the first surface treatment element 26 from hitting or scuffing any adjacent structure(s) such as walls or furniture when the surface treatment head is moved close to the adjacent structure(s). In the embodiments of FIGS. 3, 4, 10, 11 and 17, the guide portions 46 are provided in the form of guide elements 52 coupled to the chassis 20. In particular, the body 24 of the chassis 20 has a periphery 54 and the guide elements 52 are coupled to the body 24 such that they are located proximal the periphery 54 of the body 24.

    [0461] In the illustrated embodiment, the body 24 has recesses 56 for accommodating the guide elements 52. In FIGS. 3, 4, 10 and 11, the guide elements 52 on the left hand side of the surface treatment head 10 have been omitted to show the recesses 56 of the body 24 more clearly. However, it will be understood that when fully assembled the guide elements 52 would be provided in each of the recesses 56.

    [0462] In addition to the recesses 56 in the body 24, the first surface treatment element 26 has recesses 58 for accommodating the guide elements 52. For example, the recesses 58 in the first treatment element 26 are recessed around the recesses 56 in the body 24 and the guide elements 52. In the illustrated embodiment, only the drivable portion 26A of the first surface treatment element 26 has the recesses 58. In this way, the guide elements 52 are displaced with respect to the surface S to be treated (i.e. spaced apart from the surface S to be treated) in a direction perpendicular to the surface S by the treatment portion 26B. In alternative embodiments, the recesses 58 are also (or instead) provided in the treatment portion 26B, so that the guide elements 52 are closer to the surface S.

    [0463] As can be seen in the isometric views of FIGS. 3 and 10, the recesses 56 of the body 24 are recessed with respect to an upper surface 34 of the body 24, a front surface and a side surface of the body 24 (i.e. the periphery 54). Similarly, the recesses 58 of the first treatment element 26 are recessed with respect to an upper surface of the first treatment element 26, a front surface and a side surface of the first treatment element 26. In an alternative embodiment, the recesses 56, 58 are formed on opposing facing surfaces of the body 24 and first treatment element 26 respectively (i.e. a lower surface of the body 24 and an upper surface of the first treatment element 26, so that the recesses 56, 58 are provided between the body 24 and first treatment element 26).

    [0464] It can be seen that the recesses 56, 58 reduce the overall height and width of the surface treatment head 10 at the first and second ends 12, 14 compared with if the guide elements 52 were provided on top of and/or to the side of the body 24.

    [0465] In the illustrated embodiments, the guide elements 52 are provided proximal the first and second ends 12, 14 of the surface treatment head 10. In particular, at each end 12, 14 there is a pair of guide elements 52 which define a line 64 linking outermost points on the pair of guide elements 52 (shown most clearly in FIG. 18). In the illustrated embodiments, the line 64 is located outside of the treatment area 48. In other embodiments, the line 64 extends at least partly along the perimeter 50 of the treatment area 48 or within the treatment area 48.

    [0466] Similarly, the two front guide elements 52 define a front line 66 linking outermost points on the front guide elements 52 (as shown most clearly in FIG. 11). In the illustrated embodiments, the front line 66 is located outside of the treatment area 48. In other embodiments, the front line 66 extends at least partly along the perimeter 50 of the treatment area 48 or within the treatment area 48.

    [0467] In the illustrated embodiments, the guide elements 52 are rollers/wheels. In alternative embodiments, the guide elements are balls. It will be understood that such rollers/wheels/balls are configured to reduce friction between the surface treatment head 10 and a structure extending transverse (e.g. perpendicular) to the surface S to be treated when the surface treatment head 10 is moved adjacent to said structure in use. In alternative embodiments, the guide elements 52 are non-rotating structures (e.g. pieces of felt/low friction material coupled to the body 24).

    [0468] The chassis 20 has mounting arrangements 68, and each guide element 52 is mounted in a respective mounting arrangement 68 such that each guide element is configured for rotation with respect to the chassis 20. In particular, the mounting arrangements 68 are provided on lower surfaces of the recesses 56 in the body 24. It can be seen from the isometric views of FIGS. 3 and 10 that portions of the body 24 bounding the recesses 56 extend below an upper surface of the first surface treatment element 26, from a front surface of the first treatment element 26 and from a side surface of the first treatment element 26. The first surface treatment element 26 is recessed around the portions of the body 24 bounding the recesses 56 (i.e. around lower, front and side surfaces of recesses 56). In other words, the mounting arrangements 68 (i.e. lower surfaces of recesses 56) are accommodated in the recesses 58 of the first treatment element 26.

    [0469] In some embodiments, the guide elements 52 are removably mounted to the chassis (i.e. removably mounted to the mounting arrangements 68) to be replaced when worn or changed to a different type (e.g. to adjust how far the linking lines 64 are positioned outside the perimeter 50 of the treatment area 48).

    [0470] In alternative embodiments, instead of guide elements 52 the guide portions 46 are portions of the periphery 54 of the body 24. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 19 the periphery 54 of the body 24 surrounds the treatment area 48 such that the periphery 54 is spaced apart from the perimeter 50 of the treatment area 48.

    [0471] Although the invention has been described in relation to one or more embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example:

    [0472] It should also be noted that whilst the appended claims set out particular combinations of features described above, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the particular combinations hereafter claimed, but instead extends to encompass any combination of features herein disclosed.