Floor machine with attachment system

Abstract

The floor machine provides an attachment system capable of securing a handle to the floor machine at multiple locations. A handle storing a power source, such as batteries, attaches to the housing to power the motor. A housing of the floor machine provides two attachment bodies located on the exterior of two different walls of the housing. By securing the handle to the different attachment points, the user can configure the footprint of the floor machine to increase the user's access to narrower and/or smaller confined areas. The power source electrically connects to the motor at a powering location separate from the attachment location of the handle to the housing. The distinct attachment location and powering locations enables different attachments of the handle to the housing.

Claims

1. An apparatus for treating a surface, the apparatus comprising: a housing storing a motor that agitates a treatment attachment; a handle that attaches to the housing; a power source stored within the handle, wherein the power source powers the motor; a tubular section of the handle, wherein the power source is at least partially stored within the tubular section of the handle; a driving plate secured to the housing, wherein the treatment attachment attaches to the driving plate, wherein the motor revolves the driving plate; a first attachment body and a second attachment body secured to the housing, wherein the handle releasably attaches to either the first attachment body or the second attachment body.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a shaft of the motor extending vertically downward; an eccentric assembly secured to the shaft; the driving plate secured to the eccentric assembly, wherein the eccentric assembly offsets the driving plate in relation to the shaft, wherein the motor revolves the driving plate around a shaft of the motor.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a powering conductor extending externally from the handle, wherein the powering conductor attaches to the housing to power the motor.

4. The apparatus of claim 3 further comprising: a first end of the handle that attaches to the housing; a second end of the handle located opposite the first end; wherein the powering conductor is located approximate the first end of the handle, wherein the powering conductor extends laterally outward from the tubular section of the handle.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, further comprising battery stored within the handle, wherein a majority of the weight of the battery is located toward the first end of the handle.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a charging conductor that attaches to a charging source to charge the power source within the handle.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 further comprising: a first end of the handle that attaches to the housing; a second end of the handle located opposite of the first end; wherein the charging conductor is located approximate the second end of the handle.

8. An apparatus for treating a surface, the apparatus comprising: a housing storing a motor that agitates a treatment attachment; a handle that attaches to the housing; a power source stored within the handle, wherein the power source powers the motor; a powering conductor extending externally outward from the handle, wherein the powering conductor electrically connects the power source with the motor; a driving plate secured to the housing wherein the treatment attachment attaches to the driving plate, wherein the motor revolves the driving plate; wherein the motor is secured to an attachment body; a shaft of the motor extending vertically downward; an eccentric assembly secured to the shaft; and the driving plate secured to the eccentric assembly wherein the eccentric assembly offsets the driving plate in relation to the shaft, the driving plate located below the motor, wherein the motor revolves the driving plate around a shaft of the motor.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the handle releasably attaches to the housing.

10. The apparatus of claim 8 further comprising: a tubular section of the handle, wherein the power source is at least partially stored within the tubular section.

11. The apparatus of claim 10 further comprising: a first end of the handle that attaches to the housing; a second end of the handle located opposite the first end; wherein the powering conductor is located approximate the first end of the handle, wherein the powering conductor extends laterally outward from the tubular section of the handle.

12. The apparatus of claim 11 further comprising: a charging conductor that attaches to a charging source to charge the power source within the handle, wherein the charging conductor attaches proximate the second end of the handle.

13. The apparatus of claim 8 further comprising: a tubular section of the handle, wherein the power source is stored entirely within the tubular section.

14. An apparatus for treating a surface, the apparatus comprising: a housing storing a motor that agitates a treatment attachment; a handle that releasably attaches to the housing at an attachment location; a battery stored within the handle, wherein the battery powers the motor; a powering conductor that electrically connects the battery with the motor, wherein the powering conductor releasably attaches to the housing at a power location, wherein the power location is distinct from the attachment location; a driving plate secured to the housing wherein the treatment attachment attaches to the driving plate, wherein the motor revolves the driving plate; and a first attachment body and a second attachment body secured to the housing, wherein the handle releasably attaches to either the first attachment body or the second attachment body.

15. The apparatus of claim 14 further comprising: a tubular section of the handle, wherein the battery is at least partially stored within the tubular section of the handle.

16. The apparatus of claim 14 further comprising: a powering conductor extending externally from the handle, wherein the powering conductor attaches to the housing to power the motor, a first end of the handle that attaches to the housing; a second end of the handle located oppose of the first end; wherein the powering conductor is located approximate the first end of the handle, wherein the powering conductor extends laterally outward from the handle.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) In the following drawings, which form a part of the specification and which are to be construed in conjunction therewith, and in which like reference numerals have been employed throughout wherever possible to indicate like parts in the various views:

(2) FIG. 1 is a front environmental view of one embodiment of the present invention;

(3) FIG. 2A is a right side view thereof;

(4) FIG. 2B is a left side view thereof;

(5) FIG. 3 is a rear view thereof;

(6) FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view thereof;

(7) FIG. 5 is a front view thereof;

(8) FIG. 6 is a right side view thereof;

(9) FIG. 7 is a left side view thereof;

(10) FIG. 8 is a top view thereof;

(11) FIG. 9 is a bottom view thereof;

(12) FIG. 10 is a bottom view thereof;

(13) FIG. 11 is a sectional view thereof;

(14) FIG. 12 is an environmental view thereof;

(15) FIG. 13 is a rear view thereof;

(16) FIG. 14 is a bottom partial view thereof;

(17) FIG. 15 is a sectional view thereof;

(18) FIG. 16 is an environmental view of one embodiment of the present invention;

(19) FIG. 17 is a left side view thereof;

(20) FIG. 18 is a right side view thereof;

(21) FIG. 19 is a front view thereof;

(22) FIG. 20 is a rear view thereof;

(23) FIG. 21 is a top view thereof;

(24) FIG. 22 is a bottom view thereof;

(25) FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a rolling attachment of one embodiment of the present invention;

(26) FIG. 24 is a left side view thereof, the right side view being a mirror image of the left side view;

(27) FIG. 25 is a front view thereof;

(28) FIG. 26 is a rear view thereof;

(29) FIG. 27 is a top view thereof;

(30) FIG. 28 is a bottom view thereof;

(31) FIG. 29 is a sectional view thereof;

(32) FIG. 30 is an environmental view thereof;

(33) FIG. 31 is a sectional view thereof;

(34) FIG. 32 is a sectional view thereof;

(35) FIG. 33 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the present invention;

(36) FIG. 34A is a perspective view of a handle of one embodiment of the present invention;

(37) FIG. 34B is an exploded view thereof;

(38) FIG. 34C is a sectional view thereof;

(39) FIG. 35 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention;

(40) FIG. 36 is a rear view thereof;

(41) FIG. 37 is a front view thereof;

(42) FIG. 38 is a top view thereof;

(43) FIG. 39 is a bottom view thereof;

(44) FIG. 40 is a right side view thereof;

(45) FIG. 41 is a left side view thereof;

(46) FIG. 42 is an exploded view thereof;

(47) FIG. 43 is a front perspective view thereof;

(48) FIG. 44 is a front view thereof;

(49) FIG. 45 is an exploded view thereof;

(50) FIG. 46 is a front view thereof;

(51) FIG. 47 is a right side view thereof;

(52) FIG. 48 is a left side view thereof;

(53) FIG. 49 is a rear view thereof;

(54) FIG. 50 is a bottom view thereof;

(55) FIG. 51 is a bottom view thereof;

(56) FIG. 52 is a partial perspective view thereof;

(57) FIG. 53 is a partial front view thereof;

(58) FIG. 54 is a right side view thereof;

(59) FIG. 55 is a front view thereof;

(60) FIG. 56 is an exploded view thereof;

(61) FIG. 57 is a sectional view thereof;

(62) FIG. 58 is a sectional view thereof;

(63) FIG. 59 is a partial bottom view thereof; and

(64) FIG. 60 is a partial bottom view thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(65) FIGS. 1-3 show the floor machine 100 with multiple attachment bodies located on different sides of housing 102. The multiple attachment bodies provide different attachment points for securing the handle 108 to housing 102 in different orientations. In one embodiment, attaching the handle 108 to the different attachment points changes the orientation with the handle by 90 degrees. Power cord 103 is plugged into a power source that powers the motor 104. The motor 104 revolves housing 102 and the driver plate 106 that secures to the treatment attachment.

(66) The treatment attachment secures to the driver plate 106 for contacting the floor. Different types of preparation bodies may attach to the housing depending on the floor surface and the task to be completed. Examples of preparation bodies may include an SQP pad, an SHO pad, a microfiber pad, a wet pad, a tile and grout wet pad, a scrubber, a scrub brush, a tile and grout brush, a carpet cleaning pad, a sandscreen, sandpaper, an abrader plate, stone polishing pads, vacuum braised diamond, resin diamonds, polypads, polishing pads, tooltip diamonds, a sponge, and an enhancer pad, as well as other floor treatment materials. In one embodiment, a gripping surface that includes protrusions, hooks, fasteners, loops, grips, or other fasteners is located on the bottom surface of the driver plate 106. The treatment attachment then attaches to the gripping surface.

(67) FIGS. 1-3 and FIGS. 12-13 show the different attachments of the handle 108 to housing 102 to adjust the orientation of the driver plate 106 in relation to the handle 108. The handle 108 releasably attaches to the housing 102 so that the housing 102 and handle 108 can form at least two different configurations. FIGS. 1-3 show the handle 108 attached to the attachment body 118 at the rear wall 127 of the housing 102. FIGS. 12-13 show the handle 108 attached to the attachment body 110 at the side wall 130.

(68) The handle 108 attaches to one of the attachment bodies located on the rear wall and the side wall. If the user needs to adjust the configuration of the floor machine 100, the user simply removes the handle 108 from one attachment body and reconnects the handle at another attachment body. Such configurability of the attachment of the handle 108 with the housing 102 increases the functionality of the floor machine 100 and increases access to the difficult to reach areas.

(69) FIG. 1 shows a front view with the housing 102. The user attaches the handle 108 to the attachment body located at the rear wall to increase the width of the cleaning surface. In one embodiment, the width of the driver plate 106 is greater than the depth of the driver plate 106. Such differences in sizes enables attachment of preparation bodies of different depth and width to the driver plate 106.

(70) FIGS. 4-9 show more detailed views of the floor machine 100 and the housing 102. The power cord 103 secures to the motor within housing 102 to power the motor. One embodiment of the present invention provides two attachment bodies 110, 118. Attachment body 110 is located on side wall 130. Attachment body 118 is located on rear wall 127.

(71) Each attachment body 110, 118 provides attachment shoulders 112, 116, 120, 124 that extend laterally from the wall of the housing 102. The attachment shoulders 112, 116, 120, 124 limit lateral movement of the handle 108 in relation to the housing when the handle is attached to the housing 102.

(72) An attachment neck 114, 122 is located between the attachment shoulders 112, 116, 120, 124. An attachment head of the handle 108 attaches to the attachment neck 114, 122 to secure the handle 108 to the housing 102. The attachment neck 114, 122 extends longitudinally along the wall to which the respective attachment body is secured. The attachment neck 114, 122 provides an attachment aperture between the attachment neck and the wall to which the attachment body is secured.

(73) FIG. 5 shows the front wall 128 of the housing 102 of the floor machine 102. Attachment body 110 is located on one of the side walls in relation to front wall 128.

(74) FIG. 6 shows the side wall 130 and attachment body 110 extending laterally from side wall 130. The housing 102 also provides a power connection 105 for the power cord 103 to enter the housing to power the motor and the floor machine 100. FIG. 6 also shows attachment body 118 to show the two different attachment points, attachment body 110 and attachment body 118, for securing the handle to the housing 102.

(75) The user can attach the handle to the different attachment points to change the configuration of the treatment attachment and the driver plate in relation to the handle. Changing the configuration of the treatment attachment in relation to the handle alters operation of the floor machine. If the user needs access to narrower spaces, the user may attach the handle to attachment body 110 for use of the floor machine 100. If the user requires larger surface coverage, the user attaches the handle to attachment body 118 to increase the width of the surface treated with each push/pull of the handle 108.

(76) FIG. 7 shows side wall 132 of housing 102 of the floor machine 100. FIG. 7 also shows attachment body 118 and its relation to the side wall 132.

(77) FIG. 8 shows a top view of the housing 102 and floor machine 100. The width of the housing 102, the distance from side wall 130 to side wall 132, is greater than the depth of the housing 102, the distance from front wall 128 to rear wall 127. By attaching the handle to the attachment body 110, the user can configure the floor machine to have a narrower footprint to gain access to narrower areas. The user can increase the width of the footprint by attaching the handle to the attachment body 118.

(78) FIGS. 9 and 33 show the driver plate 106 to which the gripping surface 126 attaches as shown in FIG. 33. Gripping feet extend from the gripping surface 126. The gripping feet provide protrusions extending laterally from the gripping surface 126 to secure a treatment attachment to the gripping surface 126. FIG. 9 also shows the attachment bodies 110, 118 in relation to the driver plate 106 and the gripping surface to emphasize the user's ability to configure the footprint of the floor machine 100 through attachment of the handle.

(79) FIG. 9 also shows the bottom of the driver plate 106 at which the bottom gripping surface is located. The bottom gripping surface provides a surface to which the treatment attachment attaches. The bottom gripping surface is located on the bottom of the housing 102 and secures the treatment attachment to the driver plate 106 and the floor machine 100.

(80) FIGS. 10-11 show the attachment of handle 108 to attachment body 118. The handle 108 attaches to one attachment body 118 at a time. The attachment head 136 provides an upper jaw 142 and a lower jaw 144 that clip around the attachment neck, such as a pin, bar, rod, or other fastener. Attachment teeth 138, 140 secure to lower jaw 144 and extend vertically upward from lower jaw 144 towards upper jaw 142. The attachment teeth 138, 140 create an opening located between the lower jaw 144 and the attachment teeth 138, 140. The attachment neck of attachment body 118 is then placed within the opening below the attachment teeth 138, 140 between the attachment teeth 138, 140 and lower jaw 144.

(81) The upper jaw 142 and lower jaw 144 are then adjusted to the closed position to secure the handle to the housing. In one embodiment, the upper jaw 142 and lower jaw 144 are biased to the closed position to secure the handle to the closed position. The user can adjust the upper jaw 142 and lower jaw 144 to the open position to release the handle from the housing.

(82) FIGS. 12 and 13 show the handle 108 secured to the attachment body 110 of housing 102. Attachment of the handle 108 to adjustment body 110 adjusts the orientation of housing 102 in relation to the handle 108. The differences in the orientation of the housing 102 in relation to the handle 108 are demonstrated at FIGS. 12-13 and FIGS. 1-3. FIGS. 1-3 show the handle 108 secured to adjustment body located on the rear wall 127.

(83) FIG. 14 shows a bottom view of the housing 102 in which the driver plate 106 has been removed to show the eccentric assembly 146 and shaft fastener 148. The bearing cup of the eccentric assembly 146 attaches to driver plate 106. Eccentric assembly 146 offsets the attachment of the driver plate 106 with the motor. Shaft fastener 148 secures the eccentric assembly 146 with the motor. Offsetting shaft fastener 148 in relation to the driver plate 106 enables the driver plate to revolve around the shaft fastener 148.

(84) FIG. 15 shows the attachment of the eccentric assembly 146 to the motor shaft 147. The shaft fastener 148 secures the eccentric assembly 146 to the driver plate 106.

(85) FIGS. 16-32 show another embodiment of the present invention in which the floor machine 100 is oriented to the side and secured to a rolling attachment 200. The handle 108 secures to the rolling frame 202 with wheels 204, 205. The rolling frame 202 provides an opening in the front for placement of the driver plate.

(86) FIGS. 16-20 show wheels 204, 206, 208, 210 attached to rolling attachment 200. The wheels are secured to the rolling attachment to allow movement in two directions, side to side. The placement of the handle 108 enables the user to exert a forward force on the driving plate 106 and the treatment attachment. Such a forward force presses the treatment attachment into the wall or baseboard to be cleaned. The wheels 204, 206, 208, 210 direct the rolling attachment 200 side to side to enable the user to traverse the wall with the treatment attachment.

(87) FIG. 21 shows the attachment of the floor machine 100 to the rolling attachment 200. The handle attaches to the attachment body 212 of the rolling attachment 200. Locking arm 214 is placed onto locking pin 216 to secure the attachment body 118 of the floor machine to the rolling attachment. The driving plate 106 extends forward from the rolling attachment 200 to allow the user to treat the wall and/or baseboards with the treatment attachment.

(88) FIG. 22 shows the attachment of wheels 204, 206, 208, 210 to the rolling attachment. In one embodiment, the wheels are attached in a fixed position to avoid pivoting of the wheels. Such attachment of the wheels 204, 206, 208, 210 assists with side to side movement for cleaning the walls and/or baseboards.

(89) FIGS. 23-28 show the roller attachment 200 with the floor machine removed from the rolling attachment 200. Support body 228 positions the floor machine off of the ground and limits backwards movement. Support foot 224 maintains the floor machine above the ground to prevent dragging of the floor machine against the ground.

(90) The user presses the floor machine into the wall and/or baseboard. The support leg 226 limits backwards movement of the floor machine. Therefore, the user can maintain the treatment attachment on the wall and/or baseboards without too much backward movement of the floor machine. The other side of rolling attachment 200 also provides a support body similar to support body 228.

(91) The rolling attachment 200 also provides an upper attachment through support fingers 220, 222. Support fingers 220, 222 contact the attachment body 110. Locking arm 214 and locking finger 218 attach to locking pin 216 to secure attachment body 110 between the support fingers 220, 222 and locking finger 214 and locking arm 218.

(92) Roller attachment 200 provides a front wall 232 and a rear wall 230. Wheels 204, 210 secure to rear wall 230. Wheel 206 secures to front leg 232. The support body 228 maintains the positioning of the cleaning body while in use.

(93) FIG. 25 shows the locking finger 218 attached to the locking pin 216. The locking finger 218 extends vertically downward to secure the attachment body to the rolling attachment 200. The front wheels secure to front legs 232, 234 to allow for movement from side to side. Opening 236 between front legs 232, 234 provides sufficient space for the driving plate and treatment attachment to contact the wall.

(94) FIG. 26 shows rear wall 230 and the attachment of the rear wheels to the rear wall 230.

(95) FIGS. 27 and 28 show the positioning of the locking pin 216 within the locking arm 214. The locking body 238 provides attachment shoulders 240, 244 for attachment body 242. The attachment body 242 provides an attachment neck similar to the attachment bodies described above.

(96) FIGS. 27-28 also show the support fingers 220, 222 and support bodies 224, 225.

(97) FIG. 29 shows the attachment aperture 246 formed by the support fingers 220, 222, locking arm 214, and locking finger 218. Locking pin 216 secures the locking arm 214 on to the rolling attachment to maintain the positioning of the locking arm 214 and locking finger 218. The locking finger 218 secures the attachment body of the floor machine within the attachment aperture 246 to secure the floor machine within the attachment aperture.

(98) FIG. 30 shows handle 108 that secures to the rolling attachment. The floor machine 100 is secured to the rolling attachment. As discussed above, the rolling attachment 200 provides space between the front legs for exposing the driver plate 106 and treatment attachment to the wall and or baseboards.

(99) FIG. 31 shows the attachment of the handle 108 to the attachment body 242. The attachment of the handle to the attachment body is similar to the attachment of the handle to the attachment bodies of the floor machine described above.

(100) FIGS. 32-33 show the attachment of the floor machine to the rolling attachment. Attachment body 110 inserts into the attachment aperture 246. Attachment arm and attachment finger lift upwards from attachment pin. Attachment body 110 is placed onto support fingers 220, 222. The user then places the attachment arm and attachment finger 218 onto the attachment pin. The placement of the attachment arm and attachment finger on the attachment pin secures the attachment body into the attachment aperture 246. The user can then clean the baseboards and/or walls.

(101) To remove the floor machine from the roller attachment, the user lifts the attachment finger 218 and attachment arm off of attachment pin. The user can then remove the floor machine from the support fingers 220, 222 and the roller attachment.

(102) FIGS. 34A, 34B, and 34C show the handle 108 that attaches to the floor machines. The handle 108 provides an attachment head 136 that secures the handle 108 to the floor machine. The handle 108 provides trigger 109 that activates the motor to treat the floors. The trigger 109 causes rotation of the motor shaft to revolve the driver plate and the treatment attachment for treating the floor.

(103) FIGS. 34B and 34C show power source 224. The power source 224 may include a battery or batteries. Such battery or batteries may include lithium ion batteries. The power source 224 provides electrical power to the motor via powering conductor 225 that electrically connects the power source 224, such as battery (ies), with the motor at power connection 105.

(104) FIGS. 34B and 34C show a power source stored within the handle 108. In one embodiment, the power source is stored within a tubular section of the handle 108. The powering conductor 225 extends laterally outward proximate the end of the handle 108 that attaches to the housing. In one embodiment, the powering conductor 225 extends laterally outward from the tubular section of the handle 108. The charging conductor 227 connects to a charging source that charges the power source 224, such as the battery (ies). The charging conductor 227 is secured to the handle 108 towards the second end of the handle away from the attachment head 136.

(105) The handle 108 and power source 224 detach from the floor machine and attach to the floor machine to provide a detachable power source stored within handle 108. The power connection 105 is located at power location 223 that is distinct from the attachment location of the attachment body at which attachment head 136 connects to the housing. The distinct locations of the power location and the attachment location allows different attachments of the handle with the housing.

(106) To change power sources 224, the user simply applies a different handle, such as a replacement, with a charged power source 224. The user electrically connects the replacement power source 224 to the motor 104 for continued operation. In one embodiment, the user plugs the power source 224 into the power connection 105 of the housing to electrically connect the power source 224 with the motor. In one embodiment, lower electrical connection connects the power source 224 with the motor. The user can then continue operation of the floor machine with the replacement handle while the original handle charges.

(107) The user charges the detached power source within the removed handle for later usage. The user electrically connects the detached power source to a charging source. In one embodiment, the user connects the upper electrical connection to the power source 224. Other embodiments may implement a different configuration of the electrical connections for connecting the power source with the motor and the charging source.

(108) The power source 224 can plug into the power connection 105 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 40. Such a power source 224 may use the lower electrical connector, such as the plug, towards the attachment head shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, to electrically connect the power source 224 to the motor 104. The upper electrical connector, such as the plug, shown at the upper end of handle 108 electrically connects to a charging source that charges power source 224. In one embodiment, the power source 224 provides sufficient power to power the floor machine as if the floor machine was corded.

(109) One embodiment of the floor machines allows for the motor to revolve the eccentric in different directions, such as clockwise and counterclockwise. The motor of the floor machines, such as floor machines 100, 300, 400 taught in the FIGURES can revolve in different directions by changing the rotation of the motor shaft.

(110) FIGS. 34A-34B and 43-51 show the handles 108 that secure to floor machines, such as floor machines 100, 300, 400. Handle 108 provides a grip 107, as shown in FIG. 43, and trigger 109 as shown in FIGS. 34A-34B and 43. The user depresses trigger 109 to activate motor 104. The motor 404 revolves driver plate 406 to which a treatment attachment is secured.

(111) Trigger 109 activates the motor 104 to revolve the treatment attachment and driver plate around the motor. Trigger 109 activates the motor to rotate the shaft in a first direction such as clockwise. As long as the user continues to depress the trigger, the motor continues to rotate the shaft in the first direction. The user continues to treat the floor with the treatment attachment secured to the driver plate revolving around the motor in the first direction. The user releases the trigger 109 to stop rotating the shaft in the first direction. The user depresses the trigger 109 to activate the motor again.

(112) In one embodiment, the motor continues to rotate the shaft in the first direction each time the user depresses the trigger 109. In another embodiment, the motor alternates the direction the motor rotates each time the user depresses the trigger 109 or activate the motor 104.

(113) The motor implemented in the floor machine may be an electric motor, such as an AC motor. The AC motor may run in two different directions. The motor may rotate the shaft in two different directions, clockwise and counterclockwise. The rotation of the shaft in two different directions revolves the driver plate and the treatment attachment in two different directions around the motor. Such revolutions can be clockwise or counterclockwise.

(114) In one embodiment, a switch causes the shaft of the motor to rotate in two different directions. The user simply toggles the switch to change the direction that the shaft rotates. The treatment attachment revolves around the motor in two different directions as a result of toggling the switch.

(115) Another embodiment of the floor machine automatically alternates rotation of the motor shaft each time the user depresses trigger 109. The user depresses the trigger 109 to revolve the driver plate and the treatment attachment around the motor in a first direction, such as clockwise. The motor continues to revolve the driver plate and treatment attachment in the first direction as long as the user continues to depress the trigger 109. The user releases the trigger to stop the floor machine.

(116) The user then depresses the trigger 109 again to revolve the driver plate and the treatment attachment around the motor. The motor alternates the direction of rotation to a second direction, such as counterclockwise, to revolve the driver plate and the treatment attachment around the motor in the second direction. The motor continues to revolve the driver plate and the treatment attachment in the second direction as long as the user continues to depress the trigger 109. The user releases the trigger to stop the floor machine. In such an embodiment, the floor machine alternates the direction of revolving the driver plate and the treatment attachment each time the user depresses the trigger 109 or otherwise activates the motor 104.

(117) A motor controller directs the motor to operate in the first direction and the second direction. The motor controller may be a solid state device that automatically alternates the direction of rotation between the first direction and the second direction each time the user depresses trigger 109. The motor controller may be a solid state device that automatically alternates the direction of rotation between the first direction and the second direction each time the motor is activated.

(118) Power cord plugs into a power source that powers the motor 104. The motor 104 revolves the driver plate 106 and the treatment attachment. The floor machine 400 prepares floors and otherwise treats floors. The floor machine re-coats, strips, polishes, scrubs, cleans, removes floor finish, repairs flooring, sands, and accomplishes other floor needs.

(119) FIGS. 35-42 show another embodiment of floor machine 300 with multiple attachment bodies 304, 312, 316 and attachment necks 306, 314, 318 similar to the attachment bodies with attachment shoulders and attachment necks described above. Attachment bodies 304, 312, 316 secured to the housing 302 enable attachment of the handle to the housing 302. The motor 104 within the housing 302 revolves the driver plate 106 for treating the floor.

(120) The housing 302 provides multiple attachment bodies 304, 312, 316 to adjust the orientation of the housing with the handle. Adjusting the orientation enables the floor machine 300 to reach different areas. Adjusting the orientation also changes the width of the housing in the relation to the handle to alter the width of the area being treated by the user.

(121) To increase the width of the treatment area, the user attaches the handle 108 to attachment body 304 at rear side 308. To narrow the width of the treatment area, the user attaches the handle 108 one of attachment bodies 312, 316 on side 310. Side 310 provides a smaller width than side 308 to change the configuration of the handle 108 in relation to the preparation body 106. Attachment bodies 312, 316 provide different attachment points to alter the usage of the floor machine 300.

(122) FIG. 36 shows the attachment body 304 on side 308 of housing 302. The attachment body 304 of one embodiment is aligned with the eccentric 324. The eccentric 324 secures to the driver plate 106 to which the treatment attachment attaches for treating the floor.

(123) Referring to FIGS. 36-39, the isolator bodies 322, 326, 328, 330 function similar to the isolator bodies shown above and described below. The isolator bodies 322, 326, 328, 330 are a wear item to be replaced for maintenance of the machine. The isolator bodies 322, 326, 328, 330 provide shock absorption, noise reduction, and control of the motor 104 to prevent the machine from pulling to one side.

(124) FIGS. 38-40 show the attachment bodies 312, 316 aligned with the eccentric 324. Outer attachment body 316 is positioned laterally outward from the driver plate 106 such that attachment body 316 is not positioned directly above the driver plate 106. Attachment body 312 is positioned laterally interior of the outer attachment body 316. Attachment body 312 is positioned directly above driver plate 106.

(125) FIG. 40 shows that attachment body 312 is positioned vertically above attachment body 316 to alter the orientation of the handle with the housing 302. Attachment body 316 is positioned at or near the vertical height of attachment body 304 wherein the attachment necks of attachment bodies 304, 316 are on the same plane.

(126) The power source plugs into power connection 105 for powering the motor within the housing. The power source may be a corded plug into an electrical outlet or a portable power source such as a battery or batteries.

(127) FIGS. 40-41 show the relationship of the isolator bodies 322, 326, 328, 330 with the driver plate 106. The isolator bodies 322, 326, 328, 330 provide some vertical space between the housing 302 and the driver plate 106. The isolator bodies 322, 326, 328, 330 are positioned between the housing 302 and the driver plate 106. The isolator bodies 322, 326, 328, 330 are positioned above the driver plate 106 such that the isolator bodies 322, 326, 328, 330 do not contact the driver plate 106.

(128) FIG. 42 shows an exploded view of the floor machine 300. Eccentric 324 attaches to the shaft of motor 104. A treatment attachment similar to treatment attachment 434 shown in FIG. 56 secures to an attachment surface, a bottom surface, of driver plate 106. The eccentric 324 revolves the driver plate 106 around the shaft of motor 104. The motor 104 of one embodiment revolves the eccentric in a first direction and a second direction, such as clockwise and counterclockwise.

(129) The treatment attachment secures to the housing 302 and driver plate 106 for contacting the floor. Different types of treatment attachments attach to the housing 302 and driver plate 106 depending on the floor surface and the task to be completed. Examples of treatment attachments may include an SQP pad, an SHO pad, a microfiber pad, a wet pad, a tile and grout wet pad, a scrubber, a scrub brush, a tile and grout brush, a carpet cleaning pad, a sandscreen, sandpaper, an abrader plate, stone polishing pads, vacuum braised diamond, resin diamonds, polypads, polishing pads, tooltip diamonds, a sponge, and an enhancer pad, as well as other floor treatment materials. The treatment attachment secures to the driver plate 106.

(130) Frame 332 secures to the housing 302 and the driver plate 106. The frame 332 provides attachment bodies 304, 326, 330.

(131) In one embodiment, the eccentric 324 offsets the attachment of the driver plate 106 and treatment attachment 434 one half inch ( inch) from the shaft of the motor 104. The half inch offset revolves the treatment attachment in a circular pathway with a radius of the offset of a half inch.

(132) In another embodiment, the eccentric 430 offsets the attachment of the driver plate 106 and treatment attachment 434 one quarter inch ( inch) from the shaft of the motor 104. The half inch offset revolves the treatment attachment in a circular pathway with a radius of the offset of a quarter inch.

(133) In another embodiment, the eccentric 430 offsets the attachment of the driver plate 106 and treatment attachment 434 one eighth inch ( inch) from the shaft of the motor 104. The half inch offset revolves the treatment attachment in a circular pathway with a radius of the offset of an eighth inch.

(134) The eccentric 430 of one embodiment offsets the driver plate 106 and treatment attachment ranging from one eighth of an inch ( inch) to one and half inches (1 inches) from the shaft of the motor 104. The offset revolves the treatment attachment in a circular pathway with a radius ranging from of an inch to one and a half inches.

(135) FIG. 42 also shows the isolator bodies 322, 326, 328, 330 as described above that provide shock absorption, noise reduction, and control of the motor 104 to prevent the machine from pulling to one side.

(136) Bearings 336 positioned within bearing cup 334 allow revolving the driver plate 106 by the eccentric 324. The bearing cup 334 seals the bearing 336 to extend the life of the bearings 336.

(137) Referring to FIG. 43, the floor machine 400 provides a handle 108 attached to a motor 104 and frame 402. A floor treatment attachment attaches to the driver plate 106 of the frame 102 for treatment of the flooring. The treatment attachment varies according to the desired task to be accomplished by the floor machine 400. The shaft of the motor 104 attaches to an eccentric to an offset position to revolve the treatment attachment around the offset attachment. The motor 104 revolves the treatment attachment to complete the desired task on the floor. Such offset attachment appears to vibrate the treatment attachment. In another embodiment, the motor 104 vibrates the treatment attachment.

(138) The treatment attachment secures to the frame 402 for contacting the floor. Different types of treatment attachments may attach to the frame depending on the floor surface and the task to be completed. Examples of treatment attachments may include an SQP pad, an SHO pad, a microfiber pad, a wet pad, a tile and grout wet pad, a scrubber, a scrub brush, a tile and grout brush, a carpet cleaning pad, a sandscreen, sandpaper, an abrader plate, stone polishing pads, vacuum braised diamond, resin diamonds, polypads, polishing pads, tooltip diamonds, a sponge, and an enhancer pad, as well as other floor treatment materials. The treatment attachment secures to the driver plate 106.

(139) FIGS. 43-46 show the ability to increase the weight of the floor machine 400. The user may add weights 410, such as slotted weights, to the floor machine 400 to increase the weight of the floor machine 400. The increased weight enables the floor machine 400 to treat floors differently. The weight retention fingers 426, 428, such as bolts with nuts, secure the weights 410 to the floor machine 400.

(140) Different weights may be added or removed to treat different floor types. The weights may also be added or removed for the different treatments of the floors. The user secures the weights 410 with the retention fingers 426, 428. Slots of the weights 410 insert onto the retention fingers 426, 428. The user tightens the retention fingers 426, 428 to secure the weights 410. The user installs different configurations of the weights for treating the floors.

(141) FIGS. 45 and 49-51 show wheels 412, 414 with axle 422. The user can apply force to axle 422 via the user's foot to place the device on the wheels 412, 414 for transportation. The axle 422 also serves as the axle for the wheels 412, 414.

(142) FIGS. 47 and 48 show adjustment body 416 to which support legs 417, 419 attach. Adjustment finger 418, such as a bolt, secures the support legs 417, 419 to the adjustment body 416. The adjustment finger 418 travels along track 420 of the adjustment body 416. Placement of the adjustment finger 418 throughout the track 420 adjusts the height of the handle 108.

(143) Handle 108 attaches to the frame at pivot 409. The pivotal attachment of the handle 108 to the frame adjusts the height of the handle 108. Pivot 409 secures the handle 108 to the frame. Pivoting handle 108 away from the motor 104 lowers the handle for the user. Likewise, pivoting handle 108 towards the motor 104 raises the handle for the user. Moving the adjustment finger 418 up the track 420 lowers the handle 108. Moving the adjustment finger 418 down the track 420 raises the handle 108.

(144) FIG. 49 shows the rear view of the floor machine 400. The user adjusts the positioning of the adjustment finger 418 through track 420 with handle 424. Axle 422 secured to wheels 412, 414 simplifies transporting the floor machine. The user raises the treatment attachment secured to driver plate 106 off of the floor for transporting the floor machine 400.

(145) FIG. 50 shows a top view of the motor 104. Wheels 412, 414 secured to the axle 422 simplify transporting the motor 104 as shown in FIGS. 50 and 51.

(146) FIG. 51 shows a bottom view of the driver plate 106. Driver plate 106 provides a bottom gripping surface. The gripping surface may be constructed from felt, hook and loop fasteners, protrusions, grips, anchors, etc. The bottom gripping surface of driver plate 106 provides a surface to which the treatment attachment attaches. The bottom gripping surface is located on the bottom of the driver plate 106 and secures the treatment attachment to the frame 402 and the floor machine 400.

(147) The attachment surface, such as the bottom gripping surface, of the driver plate 106 provides gripping feet 434. The gripping feet provide protrusions extending vertically downward from the gripping surface of driver plate 106 to secure a treatment attachment to the gripping surface.

(148) FIG. 52 shows a perspective view of the motor 104 and the driver plate 106. The driver plate 106 revolves around the motor 104.

(149) FIGS. 53-55 show the eccentric 430 secured to motor 104. Fastener 432 secures the driver plate 106 to the eccentric 430. Eccentric 430 offsets the driver plate 106 from the motor 104. The offset revolves the driver plate 106 around the motor 104. Such offset revolves the treatment attachment for treating the floor.

(150) FIG. 56 shows an exploded view of the offset attachment. Eccentric 430 attaches to the shaft of motor 104. Fastener 432 secures the driver plate to the eccentric 430. Treatment attachment 434 secures to the bottom surface of driver plate 106. The eccentric 430 revolves the driver plate 106 around the shaft of motor 104. The motor 104 of one embodiment revolves the eccentric in a first direction and a second direction, such as clockwise and counterclockwise.

(151) Treatment attachment 434 secures to the frame and driver plate 106 for contacting the floor. Different types of treatment attachments 434 attach to the frame and driver plate 106 depending on the floor surface and the task to be completed. Examples of treatment attachments may include an SQP pad, an SHO pad, a microfiber pad, a wet pad, a tile and grout wet pad, a scrubber, a scrub brush, a tile and grout brush, a carpet cleaning pad, a sandscreen, sandpaper, an abrader plate, stone polishing pads, vacuum braised diamond, resin diamonds, polypads, polishing pads, tooltip diamonds, a sponge, and an enhancer pad, as well as other floor treatment materials. The treatment attachment 434 secures to the driver plate 106.

(152) In one embodiment, the eccentric 430 offsets the attachment of the driver plate 106 and treatment attachment 434 one half inch ( inch) from the shaft of the motor 104. The half inch offset revolves the treatment attachment in a circular pathway with a radius of the offset of a half inch.

(153) In another embodiment, the eccentric 430 offsets the attachment of the driver plate 106 and treatment attachment 434 one quarter inch ( inch) from the shaft of the motor 104. The half inch offset revolves the treatment attachment in a circular pathway with a radius of the offset of a quarter inch.

(154) In another embodiment, the eccentric 430 offsets the attachment of the driver plate 106 and treatment attachment 434 one eighth inch ( inch) from the shaft of the motor 104. The half inch offset revolves the treatment attachment in a circular pathway with a radius of the offset of an eighth inch.

(155) The eccentric 430 of one embodiment offsets the driver plate 106 and treatment attachment 434 ranging from one eighth of an inch ( inch) to one and half inches (1 inches) from the shaft of the motor 104. The offset revolves the treatment attachment in a circular pathway with a radius ranging from of an inch to one and a half inches.

(156) FIG. 56 also shows the isolator bodies 438. The isolator bodies 438 are a wear item to be replaced for maintenance of the machine. The isolator bodies 438 provide shock absorption, noise reduction, and control of the motor 104 to prevent the machine from pulling to one side.

(157) FIGS. 57-58 show shaft 436 of motor 104 secured to the eccentric 430 via fastener 432. Bearing assembly 438 constrains motion of the driver plate 106 and treatment attachment to the desired revolution. The bearing assembly 438 is selected according to the desired revolution caused by eccentric 430.

(158) FIGS. 59-60 show bottom views of the floor machine in which the driver plate has been removed to show the eccentric 430 and fastener 432. Bearing 438 secures to the driver plate 106 as shown in FIGS. 56, 58.

(159) The bearing 438 of the eccentric assembly attaches to motor and the eccentric 430. Eccentric assembly offsets the attachment of the driver plate with the motor. Fastener 432 secures the eccentric assembly with the motor. Offsetting fastener 432 in relation to the driver plate surface enables the treatment attachment to revolve around the motor and the shaft.

(160) FIG. 60 shows the bearing removed to show the offset relationship of fastener 432 with eccentric 430. As indicated above, the eccentric 430 offsets the fastener 432 half an inch ( inch) from the shaft of the motor. The half inch offset revolves the treatment attachment in a pathway having a half inch radius from the shaft. In another embodiment, the eccentric 430 offsets the fastener 432 one quarter of an inch ( inch) from the shaft of the motor. The half inch offset revolves the treatment attachment in a pathway having a quarter inch radius from the shaft. In another embodiment, the eccentric 430 offsets the fastener 432 one eighth of an inch ( inch) from the shaft of the motor. The half inch offset revolves the treatment attachment in a pathway having a one eighth of an inch radius from the shaft. The eccentric 430 of one embodiment offsets the fastener 432 ranging from one eighth of an inch ( inch) to one and half inches (1 inches) from the shaft of the motor. The offset revolves the treatment attachment in a pathway having a radius ranging from an eighth of an inch to one and a half inches from the shaft.

(161) The floor machine of the present invention provides multiple attachment bodies to change the orientation of the floor machine with the handle. Such changes in orientation increase the functionality of the floor machine. The floor machines are also capable of operation in two different direction by revolving the driver plate in different directions. Such changes in operation increase the life of the treatment attachment for treating the surface areas.

(162) The floor machines also provide a removable power source stored within a removable handle. Upon depleting the power source, the user simply replaces the handle with a handle storing a charged power source. The user can then charge the removed handle for later use. Such a handle provides for cordless operation of the floor machine.

(163) From the foregoing, it will be seen that the present invention is one well adapted to obtain all the ends and objects herein set forth, together with other advantages which are inherent to the structure.

(164) It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims.

(165) As many possible embodiments may be made of the invention without departing from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matter herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.