DOCK FOR AN EXTRACTION CLEANER AND A METHOD OF USING THE SAME

Abstract

A dock for an extraction cleaner including: (a) a base including (i) a horizontal wall presenting a top surface with a perimeter and (ii) an inner perimeter wall extending upward from the top surface, the inner perimeter wall and the horizontal wall configured to receive an extraction cleaner base; and (b) a tool head cleaning tray comprising (i) a bottom wall and one or more side walls extending upward from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray to define a reservoir for cleaning fluid, (ii) projections extending upward from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray, (iii) an inserted position inserted into a receptacle of the base of the dock, and (iv) a withdrawn position at least partially withdrawn from the receptacle of the base of the dock, the tool head cleaning tray selectively manipulable to, from, and between the inserted position and the withdrawn position.

Claims

1. A dock for an extraction cleaner comprising: a base comprising: a horizontal wall presenting a top surface with a perimeter; and an inner perimeter wall extending upward from at least a portion of the top surface of the horizontal wall, the inner perimeter wall and the horizontal wall configured to receive a base of an extraction cleaner, with the top surface of the horizontal wall facing the base of the extraction cleaner and the inner perimeter wall at least partially surrounding the base of the extraction cleaner; and a tool head cleaning tray comprising (i) a bottom wall and one or more side walls extending upward from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray to define a reservoir for cleaning fluid, (ii) projections extending upward from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray, (iii) an inserted position inserted into a receptacle of the base of the dock, and (iv) a withdrawn position at least partially withdrawn from the receptacle of the base of the dock, the tool head cleaning tray selectively manipulable to, from, and between the inserted position and the withdrawn position.

2. The dock of claim 1, wherein the horizontal wall of the base of the dock comprises a plurality of venting apertures therethrough, and in the inserted position, the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray is disposed below, and exposed to, the plurality of venting apertures.

3. The dock of claim 1, wherein the inner perimeter wall of the base of the dock comprises a discontinuity, and the tool head cleaning tray comprises a handle with an inward facing surface that fills the discontinuity and is flush with the inner perimeter wall of the base of the dock adjacent to the discontinuity when the tool head cleaning tray is in the inserted position.

4. The dock of claim 1, wherein the base of the dock further comprises (i) a pair of side walls that oppose each other and (ii) a rear wall orthogonal to and contiguous with the pair of side walls, and in the inserted position, the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray is disposed forward of the rear wall of the dock, sandwiched between the pair of side walls of the base of the dock, and below the horizontal wall of the base of the dock.

5. The dock of claim 4, wherein each of the pair of side walls of the base of the dock comprises a rail system, and the tool head cleaning tray comprises projections that extend outward from side surfaces of the tool head cleaning tray and that cooperate with the rail system to guide manipulation of the tool head cleaning tray to, from, and between the inserted position and the withdrawn position.

6. The dock of claim 1, wherein the base of the dock further comprises an outer perimeter wall joined to the inner perimeter wall at a top edge of the base of the dock at least partially surrounding the inner perimeter wall, the outer perimeter wall extending downward from the top edge to a bottom edge that is elevationally below the horizontal wall.

7. The dock of claim 6, wherein the outer perimeter wall of the base of the dock comprises a discontinuity, and the tool head cleaning tray further comprises a handle with an outward facing surface that fills the discontinuity and is flush with the outer perimeter wall of the base of the dock adjacent to the discontinuity when the tool head cleaning tray is in the inserted position.

8. The dock of claim 1 further comprising: a tool head receiver disposed outward relative to the inner perimeter wall, the tool head receiver configured to receive selectively a tool head for storage, the tool head receiver selectively detachable from the base of the dock.

9. The dock of claim 8, wherein the base of the dock further comprises: an outer perimeter wall joined to the inner perimeter wall at a top edge of the base of the dock at least partially surrounding the inner perimeter wall, the outer perimeter wall extending downward from the top edge to a bottom edge that is elevationally below the horizontal wall; and a tool head receiver connector extending outward from the outer perimeter wall flush with the bottom edge, the tool head receiver connector configured to selectively receive the tool head receiver.

10. A dock for an extraction cleaner comprising: a base comprising a horizontal wall presenting a top surface with a perimeter; and an inner perimeter wall extending upward from at least a portion of the top surface of the horizontal wall, the inner perimeter wall and the horizontal wall configured to receive a base of an extraction cleaner, with the top surface of the horizontal wall facing the base of the extraction cleaner and the inner perimeter wall at least partially surrounding the base of the extraction cleaner; and a tool head receiver comprising (i) a base extending outward relative to the inner perimeter wall of the base of the dock and (ii) at least two arms extending outward from the base of the tool head receiver, the at least two arms each terminating with a projection extending upward and configured to receive a tool head for storage.

11. The dock of claim 10, wherein the tool head receiver is selectively detachable from the base of the dock.

12. The dock of claim 10, wherein the base of the dock further comprises an outer perimeter wall joined to the inner perimeter wall at a top edge of the base of the dock at least partially surrounding the inner perimeter wall, the outer perimeter wall extending downward from the top edge to a bottom edge that is elevationally below the horizontal wall.

13. The dock of claim 12, wherein the base of the tool head receiver extends outward from the outer perimeter wall of the base of the dock and comprises a bottom edge flush with the bottom edge of the outer perimeter wall, and at least two arms of the tool head receiver each comprising a bottom edge flush with the bottom edge of the base of the dock.

14. The dock of claim 12, wherein the base of the dock further comprises a tool head receiver connector extending outward from the outer perimeter wall flush with the bottom edge of the base of the dock, the tool head receiver connector configured to receive selectively the tool head receiver.

15. The dock of claim 14, wherein the tool head receiver connector comprises (i) a base extending outward from the outer perimeter wall of the base of the dock and (ii) a projection extending upward from the base of the tool head receiver, the projection shaped to detachably join with the tool head receiver.

16. The dock of claim 15, wherein the base of the tool head receiver comprises a receiver to detachably join with the projection of the tool head receiver connector.

17. A dock for an extraction cleaner comprising: a base including a receptacle and venting apertures in fluid communication with the receptacle; and a tool head cleaning tray that can be inserted into the receptacle of the base during non-use of the tool head cleaning tray and at least partially withdrawn from the receptacle of the base during use to clean a tool head of an extraction cleaner, the tool head cleaning tray comprising a reservoir for cleaning fluid and debris loosened from the tool head and projections to assist in loosening the debris from the tool head.

18. The dock of claim 17, wherein when the tool head cleaning tray is inserted into the receptacle of the base, the venting apertures are disposed above the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray.

19. The dock of claim 17, wherein when the tool head cleaning tray is inserted into the receptacle of the base, the venting apertures are positioned to permit residual moisture within the reservoir to evaporate therefrom through the venting apertures.

20. The dock of claim 17, wherein the base further comprises a horizontal wall positioned to accept an extraction cleaner thereupon, the venting apertures are through the horizontal wall, and when the tool head cleaning tray is inserted into the receptacle of the base during non-use of the tool head cleaning tray, the horizontal wall is disposed above the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] In the Drawings:

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an extraction cleaner and a dock to receive the extraction cleaner, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the extraction cleaner docked on a base of the dock and a tool head cleaning tray, in a withdrawn position withdrawn from a receptacle of the base, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the extraction cleaner on the base of the dock, illustrating the base of the dock having an inner perimeter wall that at least partially surrounds the extraction cleaner, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the base of the dock and the tool head cleaning tray in the withdrawn position, illustrating the base of the dock having a horizontal wall bound at least partially by the inner perimeter wall of the base of the dock and venting apertures through the horizontal wall, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 5 is a plan view of the tool head cleaning tray, illustrating a bottom wall, opposing side walls, and a rear wall defining a reservoir for cleaning fluid and projections extending upward from the bottom wall, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 6 is an elevation view of a cross-section of the tool head cleaning tray taken through line VI-VI of FIG. 5, illustrating the projections having a hook shape and the bottom wall sloping downward toward the rear wall, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the tool head cleaning tray, illustrating projections projecting outward from a side wall, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 8 is a plan view of the dock, illustrating the tool head cleaning tray in an inserted position within the receptacle of the base of the dock and the dock further including a tool head receiver extending from the base, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 9 is a slight perspective view of a cross-section of the dock taken through line IX-IX of FIG. 8, illustrating the venting apertures through the horizontal wall of the base of the dock extending over and in fluid communication with the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of the dock with the tool head receiver extending outward from the base of the dock and the base of the dock including, below the horizontal wall, the receptacle to accept the tool head cleaning tray in the inserted position thereof, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 11 an underneath view of the dock with the tool head cleaning tray decoupled from the base of the dock, illustrating the base of the dock including a rail system to cooperate with the projections extending from the side walls of the tool head cleaning tray and to guide manipulation of the tool head cleaning tray to, from, and between the inserted position and the withdrawn position, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the base of the dock and the tool head receiver, illustrating the base of the dock including an outer perimeter wall with a discontinuity to accommodate the tool head cleaning tray when the tool head cleaning tray takes the inserted position, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 13 is an elevational view of a cross-section of the base of the dock and the tool head receiver taken through line XIII-XIII of FIG. 11, illustrating the base of the dock including a tool head receiver connector extending outward from the outer perimeter wall of the base coupled to a base of the tool head receiver, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the dock with (i) the tool head receiver in a coupled position coupled to the base of the dock and (ii) the tool head cleaning tray in the inserted position inserted within the receptacle of the base of the dock, illustrating the tool head receiver including arms extending outward from the base of the tool head receiver and the arms terminating in a projection shaped to receive a tool head for storage, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the dock, illustrating the tool head receiver in a decoupled position separated from the tool head receiver connector, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the tool head receiver separated from the base of the dock, illustrating the base and the arms of the tool head receiver providing contiguous bottom edges, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of a method of using the dock, illustrating a first manipulating step, a dispensing step, a contacting step, a passing step, a removing step, a second manipulating step, and optionally a storing step, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the dispensing step, illustrating the dispensing of cleaning fluid out of the tool head in fluid communication with a fluid supply tank assembly of the extraction cleaner, with the cleaning fluid flowing into the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the contacting step, illustrating agitating elements (e.g., bristles) of the tool head contacting the cleaning fluid within the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the passing step, illustrating the agitating elements of the tool head passing over the projections of the tool head cleaning tray and the debris previously held on and between the agitating elements having flowed with the cleaning fluid into the reservoir, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the tool head, illustrating an extraction nozzle near the agitating elements, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the removing step, illustrating the tool head removing the cleaning fluid with the debris from the reservoir, with the cleaning fluid with the debris flowing into the extraction nozzle, through the hose (thus additionally cleaning out the hose), and into a recovery tank assembly of the extraction cleaner, according to an aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0036] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the extraction cleaner upon the dock with the tool head cleaning tray having been returned to the inserted position within the receptacle of the base and another tool head stored on the tool head receiver, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0037] The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a dock for an extraction cleaner. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the Drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

[0039] For purposes of description herein, the terms upper, lower, right, left, rear, front, vertical, horizontal, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in FIG. 1. Unless stated otherwise, the term front shall refer to the surface of the element closer to an intended viewer, and the term rear shall refer to the surface of the element further from the intended viewer.-However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0040] The terms includes, including, comprises, comprising, or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by comprises a . . . does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1-2, a dock 10 for an extraction cleaner 12 is herein described. The dock 10 includes a base 14 and a tool head cleaning tray 16. The base 14 is configured to receive a base 18 of the extraction cleaner 12, as will be further discussed.

[0042] The tool head cleaning tray 16 is selectively insertable within the base 14 of the dock 10. The tool head cleaning tray 16 can be inserted into a receptacle 64 (see FIG. 2) of the base 14 during non-use of the tool head cleaning tray 16 and at least partially withdrawn from the receptacle 64 of the base 14 during use to clean a tool head 24 of the extraction cleaner 12. More particularly, the tool head cleaning tray 16 can be selectively manipulated to, from, and between an inserted position 20 (FIG. 1) within the receptacle 64 of the base 14 of the dock 10 and a withdrawn position 22 (FIG. 2) at least partially withdrawn from the receptacle 64 of the base 14. The tool head cleaning tray 16 need not be fully withdrawn from the receptacle 64 of the base 14 to be in the withdrawn position 22 and usable for the purposes described herein, although the tool head cleaning tray 16 can be, in embodiments, fully withdrawn and separated from the base 14 in the withdrawn position 22. The extraction cleaner 12 includes the tool head 24, and a user can utilize the tool head cleaning tray 16 to clean the tool head 24, as will be further discussed as well.

[0043] Referring additionally to FIG. 3-4, the base 14 includes a horizontal wall 26 (see FIG. 4) and an inner perimeter wall 28. The horizontal wall 26 presents a top surface 30. The top surface 30 has a perimeter 32. The inner perimeter wall 28 can define, at least partially, the perimeter 32 of the top surface 30 by extending upward 34 from at least a portion of the top surface 30. The horizontal wall 26 and the inner perimeter wall 28 are positioned and configured to receive the base 18 of the extraction cleaner 12. For example, the top surface 30 of the horizontal wall 26 faces and can support the base 18 of the extraction cleaner 12 from below the extraction cleaner 12. In addition, the inner perimeter wall 28 at least partially surrounds the base 18 of the extraction cleaner 12, which may help the extraction cleaner 12 stay upon the base 14 of the dock 10.

[0044] Referring additionally to FIGS. 5-7, the tool head cleaning tray 16 includes a reservoir 40. For example, in embodiments, the tool head cleaning tray 16 includes a bottom wall 36 and one or more side walls 38 extending upward 34 from the bottom wall 36. As for the one or more side walls 38, the illustrated embodiment includes a rear wall 38a and opposing side walls 38b, 38c. The bottom wall 36 and the one or more side walls 38 (e.g., 38a-38c) together define the reservoir 40. The reservoir 40 can contain, for example, cleaning fluid 42, as will be further discussed below. The bottom wall 36 slopes downward 41 (see FIG. 6) toward the rear wall 38a.

[0045] In addition, the tool head cleaning tray 16 includes projections 44. The projections 44 extend upward 34 (see FIG. 6) from the bottom wall 36. The projections 44 can take the shape of a hook, as in the illustrated embodiment. As further discussed below, the projections 44 assist in the removal of debris 46 from the tool head 24 of the extraction cleaner 12. The reservoir 40 holds, at least temporarily, the cleaning fluid 42 and the debris 46. The projections 44 provide a surface against which the tool head 24 can be agitated to remove debris that may be lodged within agitating elements 224 and/or suction inlet 225 of an extraction nozzle 226 of the tool head 24 (see, e.g., FIGS. 20-21). While the projections 44 are illustrated as having a hook shape, the projections 44 may take a variety of forms to facilitate dislodging debris from the agitating elements 224 and/or the suction inlet 225, non-limiting examples of which include raised nubs, ribbing, a high friction surface, saw-tooth projections, and combinations thereof.

[0046] Referring additionally to FIGS. 8-9, the base 14 includes a plurality of venting apertures 48 in communication with the receptacle 64. When the tool head cleaning tray 16 is inserted into the receptacle 64 of the base 14, the venting apertures 48 are positioned to permit residual moisture within the reservoir 40 to evaporate therefrom through the venting apertures 48. For example, in embodiments, the horizontal wall 26 of the base 14 includes the plurality of venting apertures 48 therethrough. The plurality of venting apertures 48 are positioned so that, when the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the inserted position 20 (see, e.g., FIG. 9), the reservoir 40 thereof is disposed below and exposed to the plurality of venting apertures 48. Stated another way, the horizontal wall 26 and the plurality of venting apertures 48 can be disposed above the reservoir 40 of the tool head cleaning tray 16 when the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the inserted position 20 within the receptacle 64 of the base 14. Each of the plurality of venting apertures 48 may extend laterally from above one of the opposing side walls 38b of the tool head cleaning tray 16 to above the other one of the opposing side walls side walls 38c of the tool head cleaning tray 16. However, other orientations and shapes are envisioned, and there can be any number of the plurality of venting apertures 48.

[0047] In embodiments, referring back to FIG. 4, the inner perimeter wall 28 of the base 14 of the dock 10 comprises a discontinuity 50. For example, when the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the withdrawn position 22, the horizontal wall 26 of the base 14 of the dock 10 has an edge 52 that is exposed to an external environment 54 and not bound by the inner perimeter wall 28. In such embodiments, the tool head cleaning tray 16 includes a handle 56. The handle 56 has an inward facing surface 58. When the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the inserted position 20, the inward facing surface 58 of the tool head cleaning tray 16 fills the discontinuity 50 and is flush with the inner perimeter wall 28 of the base 14 of the dock 10, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0048] Referring additionally to FIGS. 10-12, the base 14 of the dock 10 further includes the receptacle 64, as mentioned. For example, in embodiments, the base 14 includes a pair of side walls 60a, 60b and a rear wall 62. The pair of side walls 60a, 60b and the rear wall 62 are elevationally below the top surface 30 of the horizontal wall 26. The pair of side walls 60a, 60b oppose each other. The rear wall 62 is orthogonal to and contiguous with the pair of side walls 60a, 60b. The pair of side walls 60a, 60b and the rear wall 62 define the receptacle 64 to accept the tool head cleaning tray 16 in the inserted position 20. The receptacle 64 can take other forms. In the inserted position 20, the reservoir 40 of the tool head cleaning tray 16 is more disposed within the receptacle 64 than in the withdrawn position 22. More particularly, in the inserted position 20, the reservoir 40 of the tool head cleaning tray 16 is disposed forward 66 of the rear wall 62 of the base 14, sandwiched between the pair of side walls 60a, 60b of the base 14, and elevationally below the horizontal wall 26 of the base 14. The tool head cleaning tray 16 can be fully removed while taking the withdrawn position 22. However, the tool head cleaning tray 16 need not be fully removed and can be partially within the receptacle 64 while in the withdrawn position 22.

[0049] In embodiments, referring still to FIGS. 10-12, each of the pair of side walls 60a, 60b of the base 14 of the dock 10 includes a rail system 68. For example, the rail system 68 of the side wall 60a can include a top elongated projection 70 and a bottom elongated projection 72 that opposes the top elongated projection 70 but leaves a slot 74 therebetween. The slot 74 terminates at the rear wall 62 of the base 14. The slot 74 is open at an entrance 76 into the slot 74. The bottom elongated projection 72 includes a dip 78 and a stop 80 adjacent to the dip 78 near the entrance 76. The rail system 68 of the side wall 60b can be a mirror image of the rail system 68 of the side wall 60a, without the need to restate all the features.

[0050] To engage with the rail system 68, referring back to FIG. 5, the tool head cleaning tray 16 includes projections 82 that extend outward from side surfaces 84, 87 of the tool head cleaning tray 16. The side surface 84 opposes the side wall 60a of the base 14, while the side surface 87 opposes the side wall 60 of the base 14. The projections 82 can include a forward projection 82a and a rear projection 82b that project from the side surface 84, and a forward projection 82c and a rear projection 82d that project from the side surface 87. The forward projections 82a, 82c are disposed closer to the handle 56 than the rear projections 82b, 82d.

[0051] The projections 82 of the tool head cleaning tray 16 cooperate with the rail system 68 of the base 14 to guide the manipulation of the tool head cleaning tray 16 to, from, and between the inserted position 20 and the withdrawn position 22. In the inserted position 20, the projections 82 lie in the slots 74 of the rail system 68 upon the bottom elongated projections 72. The forward projections 82a, 82c lie within the dips 78 into the bottom elongated projection 72, which resists manipulation of the tool head cleaning tray 16 from the inserted position 20 to the withdrawn position 22, where the tool head cleaning tray 16 is at least partially withdrawn from the receptacle 64. As a pulling force 85 (see FIG. 2), such as upon the handle 56, overcomes the resistance that the dip 78 provides, the forward projections 82a, 82c exit the entrances 76 of the slots 74 and the rear projections 82b, 82d slide within the slots 74. Eventually, the rear projections 82b, 82d come to rest within the dips 78 of the elongated projection 72. The tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the withdrawn position 22 here, but the rear projections 82b, 82d are still as engaged with the dips 78 of the rail system 68, and the tool head cleaning tray 16 is still coupled to the base 14. With further pulling force 85, the user can overcome the resistance that the dip 78 again provides, and the rear projections 82b, 82d eventually exit out the entrances 76 of the slots 74. The tool head cleaning tray 16 here is still in the withdrawn position 22 but this time totally decoupled from the base 14 and the rail system 68.

[0052] Referring additionally to FIG. 13, in embodiments, the base 14 further includes an outer perimeter wall 86. The outer perimeter wall 86 is exposed to the external environment 54. The outer perimeter wall 86 is joined to the inner perimeter wall 28 at a top edge 88 of the base 14. The outer perimeter wall 86 at least partially surrounds (e.g., laterally) the inner perimeter wall 28. The outer perimeter wall 86 extends downward 41 from the top edge 88 to form a bottom edge 90 of the base 14. The bottom edge 90 is elevationally below the horizontal wall 26.

[0053] Referring back to FIG. 4, in embodiments, like the inner perimeter wall 28, the outer perimeter wall 86 of the base 14 of the dock 10 includes a discontinuity 92. The handle 56 of the tool head cleaning tray 16 further includes an outward facing surface 94. When the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the inserted position 20 (e.g., FIG. 1), the outward facing surface 94 fills the discontinuity 92 and is flush with the outer perimeter wall 86 of the base 14 of the dock 10 adjacent to the discontinuity 92.

[0054] Referring additionally to FIGS. 14-16, in embodiments, the dock 10 further includes a tool head receiver 96. The tool head receiver 96 is disposed outward relative to the inner perimeter wall 28 of the base 14 of the dock 10, as well as the outer perimeter wall 86 of the base 14 of the dock 10, if included. The tool head receiver 96 is configured to receive selectively the tool head 24 for storage. For example, as in the illustrated embodiments, the tool head receiver 96 includes a base 98 and at least two arms 100. The base 98 of the tool head receiver 96 extends outward relative to the inner perimeter wall 28 of the base 14 of the dock 10. The at least two arms 100 extend outward from the base 98 of the tool head receiver 96. Each of the at least two arms 100 terminates with a projection 102 that extends upward 34 and is configured to receive the tool head 24 for storage. For example, the projection 102 can provide a vertical surface 104 with a cross-sectional shape that matches a void within the tool head 24 so that the tool head 24 can be placed over the projection 102, with the projection 102 residing within the void.

[0055] The base 98 of the tool head receiver 96 includes a bottom edge 106. The at least two arms 100 each include a bottom edge 108. The bottom edges 106, 108 are flush with each other. The bottom edges 106, 108 are flush with the bottom edge 90 of the outer perimeter wall 86 of the base 14 of the dock 10, if included.

[0056] In embodiments, the tool head receiver 96 is selectively detachable from the base 14 of the dock 10. For example, as in the illustrated embodiments, the base 14 of the dock 10 can further include a tool head receiver connector 110 (see, e.g., FIG. 15). The tool head receiver connector 110 is configured to receive selectively the tool head receiver 96. To accomplish that, the tool head receiver connector 110 can include a base 112 and a projection 114 that extends upward 34 from the base 112. The base 112 of the tool head receiver connector 110 extends outward from the outer perimeter wall 86 of the base 14 of the dock 10. The tool head receiver connector 110 is flush with the bottom edge 90 of the base 14 of the dock 10. The projection 114 is shaped to detachably join with the tool head receiver 96. In the illustrated instance, the projection 114 is cylindrical while the tool head receiver 96 includes a receiver 116 (see FIG. 16) in the shape of a cylindrical void to receive the projection 114. The tool head receiver 96 can detachably join with the projection 114 of the tool head receiver connector 110 and be manipulated to, from, and between a coupled position 115 (see FIG. 14) coupled to the tool head receiver connector 110 of the base 14 of the dock 10 and a decoupled position 117 (see FIG. 15) decoupled from the tool head receiver connector 110. As will be further discussed, the user can store one or more tool heads 24 for the extraction cleaner 12 on the tool head receiver 96 (see, e.g., FIG. 3). The base 14 of the dock 10, the tool head cleaning tray 16, and the tool head receiver 96 can all be formed of molded plastic, although other materials are envisioned, such as metal.

[0057] Referring additionally to FIG. 17, a method 200 of using the dock 10 of the extraction cleaner 12 is herein described. The method 200 includes a first manipulating step 202, a dispensing step 204, a contacting step 206, a passing step 208, a removing step 210, and a second manipulating step 212. In embodiments, the method 200 can further include a storing step 214. Each of the steps 202-214 will now be further elaborated upon.

[0058] The first manipulating step 202 includes manipulating the tool head cleaning tray 16 from the inserted position 20 (see, e.g., FIG. 1) to the withdrawn position 22 (see, e.g., FIG. 2). As mentioned, the user can apply the pulling force 85 upon the handle 56 to perform the first manipulating step 202. The base 14 of the dock 10 may be positioned on a floor, a table, or some other surface while the first manipulating step 202 is performed. The tool head cleaning tray 16 can be positioned near the base 14 of the dock 10 while in the withdrawn position 22 or still coupled to the base 14.

[0059] Referring now to FIG. 18, the dispensing step 204 includes dispensing the cleaning fluid 42 from a fluid distributor 216 coupled to a hose 218 of the extraction cleaner 12 into the reservoir 40 of the tool head cleaning tray 16. The extraction cleaner 12 can include a fluid supply tank assembly 220 for storing a supply of the cleaning fluid 42. In addition, the extraction cleaner 12 can include the fluid distributor 216 on the tool head 24. The fluid distributor 216 is in fluid communication with the fluid supply tank assembly 220, such as through tubing and a pump. The tool head 24 can include a trigger 222 that the user can manipulate to cause the cleaning fluid 42 to flow from the fluid supply tank assembly 220 and out the fluid distributor 216 into the reservoir 40. Alternatively, the cleaning fluid 42 may be water or some other fluid that can be added to the reservoir 40 from a faucet or other storage container.

[0060] Referring now to FIG. 19, the contacting step 206 includes contacting the agitating elements 224 (see FIG. 21 again) of the tool head 24 with the cleaning fluid 42 within the reservoir 40. The agitating elements 224 can be bristles of a brush, among other options. The agitating elements 224, before the method 200 is conducted, could have been utilized to agitate a surface to be cleaned. To contact the agitating elements 224 with the cleaning fluid 42, the agitating elements 224 can be descended into the cleaning fluid 42 held within the reservoir 40.

[0061] Referring now to FIG. 20, the passing step 208 includes passing the agitating elements 224 over the projections 44 of the tool head cleaning tray 16. So passing the agitating elements 224 over the projections 44, with the projections 44 extending upward between adjacent agitating elements 224 (e.g., adjacent bristles), loosens the debris 46 (dirt, hair, and so on) held between and on the agitating elements 224 and/or lodged within the suction inlet 225. The debris 46 could have originated from the surface that the user previously cleaned with the extraction cleaner 12. The cleaning fluid 42, now containing the debris 46 loosened from the agitating elements 224, flows and becomes disposed within the reservoir 40.

[0062] Referring now to FIG. 22, the removing step 210 includes removing, with suction, the cleaning fluid 42 with the debris 46 from the reservoir 40. As mentioned, the tool head 24 includes the extraction nozzle 226, which can be near the agitating elements 224. The extraction cleaner 12 further includes a recovery tank assembly 228, which is in fluid flow communication with the extraction nozzle 226 via the hose 218. The extraction cleaner 12 can include a pump to generate suction at the suction inlet 225 of the extraction nozzle 226. The cleaning fluid 42 with the debris 46 within the reservoir 40, because of the suction, enters the extraction nozzle 226, flows through the hose 218, and deposits into the recovery tank assembly 228.

[0063] The second manipulating step 212 includes manipulating the tool head cleaning tray 16 to the inserted position 20. After cleaning the agitating elements 224 and extracting the cleaning fluid 42 with the debris 46 from the reservoir 40 of the tool head cleaning tray 16, the user can move the tool head cleaning tray 16 into the base 14 of the dock 10 for storage. Optionally, prior to the second manipulating step 212, the tool head cleaning tray 16 may be emptied and/or rinsed in a sink or trash receptacle to clean or rinse-out the tool head cleaning tray 16 for storage.

[0064] In some instances, despite the performance of the removing step 210, the reservoir 40 still includes some of the cleaning fluid 42. The cleaning fluid 42 can include an evaporative component, such as water. Although the tool head cleaning tray 16 is in the inserted position 20 within the base 14 of the dock 10 after the performance of the second manipulating step 212, the water within the cleaning fluid 42 evaporates from the cleaning fluid 42, departs the reservoir 40, and flows through the venting apertures 48 (see, e.g., FIG. 1) through the horizontal wall 26 of the base 14 of the dock 10 and into the external environment 54.

[0065] In embodiments, the first manipulating step 202, the dispensing step 204, the contacting step 206, the removing step 210, and the second manipulating step 212 are all performed while the extraction cleaner 12 is docked in the base 14 of the dock 10 (as in FIG. 18). The extraction cleaner 12 could alternatively be placed somewhere else while performing the steps 202-212 of the method 200.

[0066] Referring now to FIG. 23, as mentioned, in embodiments, the method 200 further includes the storing step 214. The storing step 214 includes separating the tool head 24 from the hose 218 and coupling the tool head 24 to the tool head receiver 96. In this manner, the user can store the tool head 24 for later use.

[0067] The dock 10 with the tool head cleaning tray 16 and/or the tool head receiver 96 addresses the problems mentioned in the Summary, in a variety of ways. The tool head cleaning tray 16 allows the user to remove debris 46 from the tool head 24, such as after the user used the tool head 24 to clean some surface. The projections 44 project between the agitating elements 224 to improve the loosening of the debris 46 therefrom. The reservoir 40 holds the cleaning fluid 42 used to clean the tool head 24 and the debris 46 loosened. The user can then extract via suction the cleaning fluid 42, which then progresses through the hose 218 to clean the hose 218 as well. The entirety of the suction path of the extraction cleaner 12 is rinsed out. Cleaning and rinsing of the tool head 24 and the hose 218 facilitate maintaining the appearance of the tool head 24 and hose 218 and decreases the likelihood of undesirable odors developing over time. Any remaining moisture in the reservoir 40 evaporates through the venting apertures 48 of the base 14 of the dock 10, which further decreases the likelihood of undesirable odors. The tool head cleaning tray 16 provides a readily accessible way for the user to clean the tool head 24 and the hose 218.

[0068] The tool head receiver 96 provides at least two connection opportunities for the user to store one or more tool heads 24 conveniently attached to the dock 10 near the extraction cleaner 12. The arms 100 with the projections 44 reduce material usage compared to bulkier storage options. The tool head receiver 96 can be separable, which allows the user to reduce the footprint of the dock 10 if no storage options for the tool head 24 are needed. The separable tool head receiver 96 also allows for different product model variations in which models that include multiple tools can also include the tool head receiver 96, whereas other models that do not include multiple tools (e.g., less expensive models) do not include the tool head receiver 96. However, the same molds can be used to make both models, providing some cost savings in tooling and manufacturing.

[0069] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a dock for an extraction cleaner comprises: (a) a base comprising: (i) a horizontal wall presenting a top surface with a perimeter; and (ii) an inner perimeter wall extending upward from at least a portion of the top surface of the horizontal wall, the inner perimeter wall and the horizontal wall configured to receive a base of an extraction cleaner, with the top surface of the horizontal wall facing the base of the extraction cleaner and the inner perimeter wall at least partially surrounding the base of the extraction cleaner; and (b) a tool head cleaning tray comprising (i) a bottom wall and one or more side walls extending upward from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray to define a reservoir for cleaning fluid, (ii) projections extending upward from the bottom wall of the tool head cleaning tray, (iii) an inserted position inserted into a receptacle of the base of the dock, and (iv) a withdrawn position at least partially withdrawn from the receptacle of the base of the dock, the tool head cleaning tray selectively manipulable to, from, and between the inserted position and the withdrawn position.

[0070] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of the first aspect is presented, wherein (i) the horizontal wall of the base of the dock comprises a plurality of venting apertures therethrough, and (ii) in the inserted position, the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray is disposed below, and exposed to, the plurality of venting apertures.

[0071] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of any one of the first through second aspects is presented, wherein (i) the inner perimeter wall of the base of the dock comprises a discontinuity, and (ii) the tool head cleaning tray comprises a handle with an inward facing surface that fills the discontinuity and is flush with the inner perimeter wall of the base of the dock adjacent to the discontinuity when the tool head cleaning tray is in the inserted position.

[0072] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of any one of the first through third aspects is presented, wherein (a) the base of the dock further comprises (i) a pair of side walls that oppose each other and (ii) a rear wall orthogonal to and contiguous with the pair of side walls, and (b) in the inserted position, the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray is disposed forward of the rear wall of the dock, sandwiched between the pair of side walls of the base of the dock, and below the horizontal wall of the base of the dock.

[0073] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of the fourth aspect is presented, wherein (i) each of the pair of side walls of the base of the dock comprises a rail system, and (ii) the tool head cleaning tray comprises projections that extend outward from side surfaces of the tool head cleaning tray and that cooperate with the rail system to guide the manipulation of the tool head cleaning tray to, from, and between the inserted position and the withdrawn position.

[0074] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of any one of the first through fifth aspects is presented, wherein the base of the dock further comprises an outer perimeter wall joined to the inner perimeter wall at a top edge of the base of the dock at least partially surrounding the inner perimeter wall, the outer perimeter wall extending downward from the top edge to a bottom edge that is elevationally below the horizontal wall.

[0075] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of the sixth aspect is presented, wherein (i) the outer perimeter wall of the base of the dock comprises a discontinuity, and (ii) the tool head cleaning tray further comprises a handle with an outward facing surface that fills the discontinuity and is flush with the outer perimeter wall of the base of the dock adjacent to the discontinuity when the tool head cleaning tray is in the inserted position.

[0076] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of any one of the first through fifth aspects further comprises a tool head receiver disposed outward relative to the inner perimeter wall, the tool head receiver configured to receive selectively a tool head for storage, the tool head receiver selectively detachable from the base of the dock.

[0077] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of the eight aspect is presented, wherein the base of the dock further comprises: (i) an outer perimeter wall joined to the inner perimeter wall at a top edge of the base of the dock at least partially surrounding the inner perimeter wall, the outer perimeter wall extending downward from the top edge to a bottom edge that is elevationally below the horizontal wall; and (ii) a tool head receiver connector extending outward from the outer perimeter wall flush with the bottom edge, the tool head receiver connector configured to selectively receive the tool head receiver.

[0078] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, a dock for an extraction cleaner comprises: (a) a base comprising (i) a horizontal wall presenting a top surface with a perimeter; and (ii) an inner perimeter wall extending upward from at least a portion of the top surface of the horizontal wall, the inner perimeter wall and the horizontal wall configured to receive a base of an extraction cleaner, with the top surface of the horizontal wall facing the base of the extraction cleaner and the inner perimeter wall at least partially surrounding the base of the extraction cleaner; and (b) a tool head receiver comprising (i) a base extending outward relative to the inner perimeter wall of the base of the dock and (ii) at least two arms extending outward from the base of the tool head receiver, the at least two arms each terminating with a projection extending upward and configured to receive a tool head for storage.

[0079] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of the tenth aspect is presented, wherein tool head receiver is selectively detachable from the base of the dock.

[0080] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of any one of the tenth through eleventh aspects is presented, wherein the base of the dock further comprises an outer perimeter wall joined to the inner perimeter wall at a top edge of the base of the dock at least partially surrounding the inner perimeter wall, the outer perimeter wall extending downward from the top edge to a bottom edge that is elevationally below the horizontal wall.

[0081] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of the twelfth aspect is presented, wherein (i) the base of the tool head receiver extends outward from the outer perimeter wall of the base of the dock and comprises a bottom edge flush with the bottom edge of the outer perimeter wall, and (ii) the at least two arms of the tool head receiver each comprise a bottom edge flush with the bottom edge of the base of the dock.

[0082] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of any one of the twelfth through thirteenth aspects is presented, wherein the tool head receiver connector comprises (i) a base extending outward from the outer perimeter wall of the base of the dock and (ii) a projection extending upward from the base of the tool head receiver, the projection shaped to detachably join with the tool head receiver.

[0083] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of the fourteenth aspect is presented, wherein the tool head receiver connector comprises (i) a base extending outward from the outer perimeter wall and (ii) a projection extending upward from the base of the tool head receiver, the projection shaped to detachably join with the tool head receiver.

[0084] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of the fifteenth aspect is presented, wherein the base of the tool head receiver comprises a receiver to detachably join with the projection of the tool head receiver connector.

[0085] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, a dock for an extraction cleaner comprises: (a) a base including a receptacle and venting apertures in fluid communication with the receptacle; and (b) a tool head cleaning tray that can be inserted into the receptacle of the base during non-use of the tool head cleaning tray and at least partially withdrawn from the receptacle of the base during use to clean a tool head of an extraction cleaner, the tool head cleaning tray comprising a reservoir for cleaning fluid and debris loosened from the tool head and projections to assist in loosening the debris from the tool head.

[0086] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of the seventeenth aspect is presented, wherein when the tool head cleaning tray is inserted into the receptacle of the base, the venting apertures are disposed above the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray.

[0087] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of any one of the seventeenth through eighteenth aspects is presented, wherein when the tool head cleaning tray is inserted into the receptacle of the base, the venting apertures are positioned to permit residual moisture within the reservoir to evaporate therefrom through the venting apertures.

[0088] According to a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, the dock of any one of the seventeenth through nineteenth aspects is presented, wherein (i) the base further comprises a horizontal wall positioned to accept an extraction cleaner thereupon, (ii) the venting apertures are through the horizontal wall, and (iii) when the tool head cleaning tray is inserted into the receptacle of the base during non-use of the tool head cleaning tray, the horizontal wall is disposed above the reservoir of the tool head cleaning tray.

[0089] It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.

[0090] For purposes of this disclosure, the term coupled (in all its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.

[0091] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0092] It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.