SCRUBBER DRYER

Abstract

A scrubber dryer (1A-1P) has: a base section (3), which includes a brush (6) that contacts a surface to be cleaned; a body section (2), which is disposed higher than the base section and includes a handle (4); a supply tank (8), which stores cleaning liquid that is supplied to the surface to be cleaned; and a collection tank (9), which stores liquid, dirt, debris, etc. that has been collected from the surface while the surface is being cleaned. The supply tank (8) is disposed in the body section (2). The collection tank (9) is disposed in the base section (3).

Claims

1. A scrubber dryer comprising: a base section, which includes a brush configured to contact a surface to be cleaned; a body section, which is disposed higher than the base section and includes a handle; a supply tank configured to store a cleaning liquid that is supplied to the surface to be cleaned; and a collection tank configured to store liquid, dirt, debris, etc. that has been collected from the surface while the surface is being cleaned, wherein: the supply tank is disposed in the body section and the collection tank is disposed in the base section.

2. The scrubber dryer according to claim 1, further comprising: a first power source disposed in the body section.

3. The scrubber dryer according to claim 2, wherein the first power source is: in a left-right direction, disposed in a middle section of the body section; in a front-rear direction, disposed in a front section of the body section; and in an up-down direction, disposed in a lower section of the body section.

4. The scrubber dryer according to claim 2, further comprising a second power source disposed in the body section.

5. The scrubber dryer according to claim 4, wherein the first and second power sources are arranged in an up-down direction or a left-right direction.

6. The scrubber dryer according to claim 2, further comprising: a suction motor configured to generate a suction force that suctions the liquid, dirt, debris, etc. that is to be collected from the surface while the surface is being cleaned, wherein the suction motor is disposed in the base section.

7. The scrubber dryer according to claim 6, wherein the suction motor is: in a left-right direction, disposed in a middle section of the base section; and in a front-rear direction, disposed in a middle section of the base section.

8. The scrubber dryer according to claim 6, wherein: the position of the supply tank and the position of the collection tank are different and the position of the supply tank and the position of the suction motor are different.

9. The scrubber dryer according to claim 6, wherein: the position of the supply tank and the position of the collection tank are different and the position of at least a portion of the collection tank and the position of the suction motor are the same.

10. The scrubber dryer according to claim 6, wherein: the position of the supply tank and the position of the collection tank are different and the position of the power source and the position of the suction motor are different.

11. The scrubber dryer according to claim 1, wherein the supply tank is: in a left-right direction, disposed in a middle section of the body section; in a front-rear direction, disposed in a middle section of the body section; and in an up-down direction, disposed in a lower section of the body section.

12. The scrubber dryer according to claim 1, wherein the collection tank is: in a left-right direction, disposed in a left section, a middle section, and a right section of the base section; and in a front-rear direction, disposed in a middle section and a rear section of the base section.

13. The scrubber dryer according to claim 1, further comprising: a guide part that connects the handle to the base section and is disposed in the body section, the guide part being tiltable relative to the base section.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. 1 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a first embodiment of the present teachings.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a side view schematically illustrating the scrubber dryer according to the first embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a second embodiment of the present teachings.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a third embodiment of the present teachings.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a fourth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a fifth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a side view schematically illustrating the scrubber dryer according to the fifth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a sixth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a seventh embodiment of the present teachings.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to an eighth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a ninth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0019] FIG. 12 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a tenth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0020] FIG. 13 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to the tenth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0021] FIG. 14 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to an eleventh embodiment of the present teachings.

[0022] FIG. 15 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a twelfth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0023] FIG. 16 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0024] FIG. 17 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0025] FIG. 18 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to the fourteenth embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 19 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0027] FIG. 20 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to the fifteenth embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 21 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present teachings.

[0029] FIG. 22 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer according to the sixteenth embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0030] As was mentioned above, the scrubber dryer may comprise: a base section, which includes a (at least one) brush that contacts a surface to be cleaned; a body section, which is disposed higher than the base section and includes a handle; a supply tank, which stores cleaning liquid that is supplied to a surface to be cleaned; and a collection tank, which stores liquid, dirt, debris, etc. that has been collected (recovered, suctioned) from the surface that is being cleaned. The supply tank may be disposed in the body section. The collection tank may be disposed in the base section.

[0031] In the configuration described above, because the supply tank is disposed in the body section and the collection tank is disposed in the base section, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer can be improved. Therefore, the handleability of the scrubber dryer is enhanced.

[0032] In addition, because the supply tank is disposed in the body section, the cleaning liquid stored in the supply tank can be supplied to the surface to be cleaned by simply falling under its own weight. Therefore, for example, a pump for supplying the cleaning liquid to the surface to be cleaned is not needed.

[0033] In addition, because the collection tank is disposed in the base section, even if the operator manually tilts the body section relative to the base section, spillage of the liquid, etc. stored in the collection tank is not likely to occur owing to the fact that the collection tank does not move during the tilting operation.

[0034] In addition, as cleaning operations progress, the amount of cleaning liquid stored in the supply tank gradually decreases. That is to say, as cleaning operations progress, the weight of the supply tank decreases. Because the supply tank is disposed in the body section, the burden on the operator supporting the handle of the body section gradually decreases as cleaning operations progress owing to the fact that the weight of the supply tank is decreasing.

[0035] In addition, as cleaning operations progress, the amount of liquid, etc. stored in the collection tank gradually increases. That is to say, as cleaning operations progress, the weight of the collection tank increases. Because the collection tank is disposed in the base section, even though the weight of the collection tank increases during cleaning operations, there is no increase in the burden on the operator supporting the handle of the body section.

[0036] In one or more embodiments, the scrubber dryer may comprise a (at least one) power source. The (at least one) power source may be disposed in the body section.

[0037] In the configuration described above, because the power source is disposed in the body section, contact between the power source and the cleaning liquid supplied to the surface to be cleaned is not likely to occur. In addition, because the power source is disposed at a higher position than the collection tank, even if collection liquid were to spill from the collection tank, contact between the power source and the collection liquid is not likely to occur.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, the scrubber dryer may comprise a (at least one) suction motor that is driven to collect (recover, suction) the liquid, dirt, debris, etc. from the surface that is being cleaned. The (at least one) suction motor may be disposed in the base section.

[0039] In the configuration described above, because both the suction motor and the collection tank are disposed in the base section, the suction motor does not need to suction the liquid from the surface that is being cleaned (e.g., a floor) up to a high position. Therefore, the power consumption of the suction motor can be reduced, which is particularly advantageous in battery-powered applications of the present teachings. In addition, because the suction motor and the collection tank are disposed at approximately the same height, even if liquid, dirt, debris, etc. stored in the collection tank spills onto the surface to be cleaned, contact between the suction motor and the collection liquid is not likely to occur.

[0040] In one or more embodiments, the position of the supply tank and the position of the collection tank may be different, and the position of the supply tank and the position of the suction motor may be different.

[0041] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer can be improved.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, the position of the supply tank and the position of the collection tank may be different, and the position of at least a portion of the collection tank and the position of the suction motor may be the same.

[0043] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer can be improved. In addition, by disposing the collection tank so as to cover the suction motor, propagation of noise generated by the suction motor to the surroundings of the scrubber dryer can be curtailed.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, the position of the supply tank and the position of the collection tank may be different, and the position of the power source and the position of the suction motor may be different.

[0045] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer can be improved.

[0046] In one or more embodiments, the power source may be: in the left-right direction, disposed in the middle section of the body section; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the front section of the body section; and, in the up-down direction, disposed in the lower section of the body section.

[0047] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer can be improved.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, the supply tank may be: in the left-right direction, disposed in the middle section of the body section; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the middle section of the body section; and, in the up-down direction, disposed in the lower section of the body section.

[0049] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer can be improved.

[0050] In one or more embodiments, the collection tank may be: in the left-right direction, disposed in the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the base section; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the middle section and the rear section of the base section; and, in the up-down direction, disposed in the base section.

[0051] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer can be improved.

[0052] In one or more embodiments, the suction motor may be: in the left-right direction, disposed in the middle section of the base section; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the middle section of the base section; and, in the up-down direction, disposed in the base section.

[0053] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer can be improved.

[0054] In one or more embodiments, two power sources (e.g., two battery packs having the same or different rated voltages) may be provided.

[0055] By increasing the total battery capacity that is connectable to the scrubber dryer, the scrubber dryer run time can be increased and/or output power (e.g., increased brush rotating speed, increased suction force, etc.) can be increased.

[0056] In one or more embodiments, the two power sources may be disposed in the up-down direction or the left-right direction.

[0057] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer can be improved.

[0058] Embodiments according to the present disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. The components of the embodiments described below can be combined as appropriate. In addition, some components may also not be used.

[0059] In the embodiments, the positional relationships between the sections are described using the terms left, right, front, rear, upper, and lower. These terms indicate relative positions or directions, with reference to the center of the scrubber dryer.

[0060] In addition, in the embodiments, the positional relationships between the sections are described by: dividing the left-right direction of the scrubber dryer into the three sections, namely a left section, a middle section, and a right section; dividing the front-rear direction of the scrubber dryer into the three sections, namely a front section, a middle section, and a rear section; and dividing the up-down direction of the scrubber dryer into the three sections, namely an upper section, a middle section, and a lower section.

[0061] The left end of the left section coincides with the left end of the scrubber dryer. The right end of the right section coincides with the right end of the scrubber dryer. In the left-right direction, the dimension of the left section, the dimension of the middle section, and the dimension of the right section are equal to each other. That is to say, the scrubber dryer is divided into three equal parts in the left-right direction, thereby defining a left section, a middle section, and a right section. The space between the left end and the right end of the scrubber dryer is divided into three equal parts in the left-right direction, thereby defining a left section, a middle section, and a right section.

[0062] The front end of the front section coincides with the front end of the scrubber dryer. The rear end of the rear section coincides with the rear end of the scrubber dryer. In the front-rear direction, the dimension of the front section, the dimension of the middle section, and the dimension of the rear section are equal to each other. That is to say, the scrubber dryer is divided into three equal parts in the front-rear direction, thereby defining a front section, a middle section, and a rear section. The space between the front end and the rear end of the scrubber dryer is divided into three equal parts in the front-rear direction, thereby defining a front section, a middle section, and a rear section.

[0063] The upper end of the upper section coincides with the upper end of the scrubber dryer. The lower end of the lower section coincides with the lower end of the scrubber dryer. In the up-down direction, the dimension of the upper section, the dimension of the middle section, and the dimension of the lower section are equal to each other. That is to say, the scrubber dryer is divided into three equal parts in the up-down direction, thereby defining an upper section, a middle section, and a lower section. The space between the upper end and the lower end of the scrubber dryer is divided into three equal parts in the up-down direction, thereby defining an upper section, a middle section, and a lower section.

First Embodiment

[0064] A first embodiment of the present teachings will now be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view schematically illustrating the scrubber dryer 1A according to the first embodiment. As shown by the grid of dotted lines in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in the left-right direction of the scrubber dryer 1A, the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the scrubber dryer 1A are defined. In the front-rear direction of the scrubber dryer 1A, the front section, the middle section, and the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1A are defined. In the up-down direction of the scrubber dryer 1A, the upper section, the middle section, and lower section of the scrubber dryer 1A are defined. It is noted that, in the description above and below, the term section also has the meaning of portion and thus the various sections may instead be referred to has portions of the scrubber dryer.

[0065] The scrubber dryer 1A cleans a surface, e.g., a floor, a sidewalk, a driveway, etc. (e.g., any type of surface that extends at least generally horizontally) using a cleaning liquid and rotating brushes 6. Herein, a floor surface serves as a representative, non-limiting surface to be cleaned. The scrubber dryer 1A collects (recovers, suctions) the cleaning liquid that has been supplied to the surface that is being cleaned. The cleaning liquid collected by the scrubber dryer 1A is a dirty liquid containing dirt, debris, etc. that was present on the floor surface to be cleaned. In the present embodiment, the cleaning liquid collected by the scrubber dryer 1A may be referred to as collected liquid or as liquid containing dirt, debris, etc.). Such collected liquid is dirty liquid containing the dirt, debris, etc. removed from the surface to be cleaned.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the scrubber dryer 1A has a base section (portion) 3 and a body section (portion) 2. The body section 2 is disposed higher than the base section 3. In the up-down direction, the upper section (portion) of the body section 2 corresponds to the upper section (portion) of the scrubber dryer 1A, the lower section (portion) of the body section 2 corresponds to the middle section (portion) of the scrubber dryer 1A, and the base section 3 corresponds to the lower section (portion) of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0067] In the left-right direction, the left section (portion), the middle section (portion), and the right section (portion) of the body section 2 correspond to the left section (portion), the middle section (portion), and the right section (portion) of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the left-right direction, the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the base section 3 correspond to the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0068] In the front-rear direction, the front section (portion), the middle section (portion), and the rear section (portion) of the body section 2 correspond to the front section (portion), the middle section (portion), and the rear section (portion) of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, the front section, the middle section, and the rear section of the base section 3 correspond to the front section, the middle section, and the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0069] The base section 3 includes brushes 6, which contact the surface to be cleaned, and brush motors 7, which respectively generate rotational force that rotates the brushes 6. The brush motors 7 are coupled to the brushes 6. At least portions of the brush motors 7 are disposed higher than the brushes 6. In the present embodiment, two brushes 6 are provided in the left-right direction. Two brush motors 7 are provided. The brush motors 7 are respectively connected to the two brushes 6. Here, it is noted that the term brush motor is intended to mean an electric motor that rotatably drives a brush 6. In the present teachings, each of the electric motors serving as brush motors 7 may be configured as a brushless DC electric motor, which is also known as an electronically commutated motor. However, other types of electric motors may be utilized with the present teachings as long as the electric motor(s) are capable of rotating the brush(es) 6.

[0070] The brushes 6 are disposed at the lower (lowest) end of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, the brushes 6 are disposed spanning the front section and the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, the brush motors 7 are disposed at the boundary between the front section and the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0071] The body section 2 includes a handle 4, which is configured to be held (gripped) by an operator, and a guide part 5, which extends downward from the handle 4. The handle 4 is a structure that is elongated in the left-right direction. In the up-down direction, the handle 4 is disposed at the upper end of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the left-right direction, the center of the handle 4 and the center of the scrubber dryer 1A coincide. In the left-right direction, the handle 4 is disposed at least in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the present embodiment, in the left-right direction, the handle 4 is disposed spanning the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, the handle 4 is disposed at least in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the present embodiment, in the front-rear direction, the handle 4 is disposed spanning the front section and the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0072] The guide part 5 is a rod-shaped structure that is elongated, e.g., in the up-down direction, although if the guide part 5 is tiltable relative to the base section 3 (as will be described below), then the guide part 5 may extend inclined relative to the up-down direction when tilted. The handle 4 is disposed at the upper end of the guide part 5. In the left-right direction, the center of the guide part 5 and the center of the scrubber dryer 1A coincide. In the left-right direction, the guide part 5 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the up-down direction, the guide part 5 is disposed spanning the upper section, the middle section, and the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1A. The body section 2 includes the upper section and the middle section of the guide part 5, and the base section 3 includes the lower section of the guide part 5. In the front-rear direction, the guide part 5 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. As shown in FIG. 2, the front end of the guide part 5 and the front end of the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A coincide.

[0073] A swivel joint mechanism 12 optionally may be provided at or in the lower portion (end) of the guide part 5. If the swivel joint mechanism 12 is provided between within the guide part 5 or between the guide part 5 and the base section 3, then the upper section and the middle section of the guide part 5 may be inclined with respect to the lower section of the guide part 5 and/or with respect to the base section 3. That is to say, it may be possible to incline (tilt) the body section 2 with respect to (relative to) the base section 3. Thus, the operator may manually tilt the body section 2 relative to the base section 3.

[0074] The scrubber dryer 1A comprises a (at least one) supply tank 8, a (at least one) collection tank 9, a (at least one) power source 10, and a (at least one) suction motor 11.

[0075] The supply tank 8 stores the cleaning liquid that will be supplied to the surface to be cleaned. The cleaning liquid stored in the supply tank 8 is supplied to the surface to be cleaned via a supply line, which is not shown. In the present embodiment, the cleaning liquid is supplied to the surface to be cleaned by gravity. That is, the cleaning liquid is simply released from the supply tank 8, e.g., by opening a mechanically-actuated or electronically-actuated valve, and falls onto the surface to be cleaned under its own weight. For example, the valve may be actuated (opened) by pressing, e.g., a trigger or button that is mechanically coupled to the valve or by pressing an electronic switch (e.g., switch button) that electronically actuates the valve to open it. The surface is then cleaned by rotating the brushes 6 while or after the cleaning liquid is being or has been supplied to the surface to be cleaned.

[0076] The collection tank 9 stores the collection liquid that has been collected (recovered, suctioned) from the surface that is being cleaned. The suction motor(s) 11 is (are) driven so that the liquid, dirt, debris, etc. (collected liquid) is collected from the surface that is being cleaned. The collected liquid contains the cleaning liquid that was supplied from the supply tank 8 to the surface to be cleaned and the dirt, debris, etc. on the surface to be cleaned. The scrubber dryer 1A comprises a (at least one) suction port, which is not shown, facing the surface that is being cleaned. The suction motor(s) 11 is (are) driven so that a suction force is generated at the suction port(s). The suction port(s) suction(s) the liquid, dirt, debris, etc. present on the surface that is being cleaned. The collected liquid suctioned from the suction port(s) is supplied (conveyed) to the collection tank 9 via one or more (not shown) collection lines. The collection tank 9 may be designed to be removable from the base section 3. In such an embodiment, the collection tank 9 may include an opening on the upper side thereof that is designed to pour out the liquid, etc. that has been collected in the collection tank 9. The opening may be closed, e.g., using a screw top or snap lid. In the alternative, the collection tank 9 may be designed such that it is not removable from the base section 3. In such an embodiment, the collection tank 9 may include an opening on the lower side thereof that is designed to allow the liquid, etc. that has been collected in the collection tank 9 to be discharged by gravity. The opening may be closed, e.g., with a screw top or snap lid, or may, e.g., have a mechanically-actuated or electrically-actuated valve that openable by pressing a trigger or electronic switch to release the liquid, etc., stored in the collection tank 9.

[0077] The power source 10 is preferably at least one rechargeable battery pack. The power source 10 is preferably a general-purpose battery that can be used as a power source for various types of electrical equipment. In such an embodiment, the power source 10 can be used as a power source for power tools. Moreover, in such an embodiment, the power source 10 can be used as a power source for electrical equipment other than power tools. The power source 10 includes one or more lithium-ion battery cells. The power source 10 may be a battery pack for power tools. However, in alternate embodiments of the present teachings, the power source 10 may be a dedicated rechargeable battery pack that is not removable from the scrubber dryer 1A. In such an embodiment, the rechargeable battery pack may be recharged by electrically connecting the power source 10 to another power source, such as a commercial AC (mains) power source, e.g., via a wire or via a wireless charging circuit.

[0078] The brush motors 7 and the suction motor(s) 11 are each electric motors, preferably brushless DC electric motors. The brush motors 7 and the suction motor(s) 11 are each driven by power supplied from the power source 10.

[0079] In the present embodiment, the position of the supply tank 8 and the position of the collection tank 9 are different; in particular, the supply tank 8 is located above the collection tank 9. In addition, the position of the supply tank 8 and the position of the suction motor(s) 11 are different; in particular, the supply tank 8 is located above the suction motor(s) 11. Furthermore, the position of at least a portion of the collection tank 9 and the position of the suction motor 11 are the same; in particular, at least a portion of the collection tank 9 and the position of the suction motor 11 may be at the same height in the up-down direction. The collection tank 9 may be disposed, e.g., so as to partially or completely surround the suction motor(s) 11. The position of the power source 10 and the position of the suction motor 11 are different; in particular, the power source 10 is located above the suction motor(s) 11.

[0080] The body section 2 includes the supply tank 8. In other words, the supply tank 8 is provided in the body section 2. More specifically, in the up-down direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0081] The base section 3 includes a collection tank 9. In other words, the collection tank 9 is provided in the base section 3. More specifically, in the up-down direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0082] The body section 2 includes the power source 10. In other words, the power source 10 is provided in the body section 2. More specifically, in the up-down direction, the power source 10 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0083] The base section 3 includes the suction motor(s) 11. In other words, the suction motor(s) 11 is (are) provided in the base section 3. More specifically, in the up-down direction, the suction motor(s) 11 is (are) disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0084] More specifically, in the present embodiment, the supply tank 8 is: in the left-right direction, disposed in the middle section of the body section 2; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the middle section of the body section 2; and, in the up-down direction, disposed in the lower section of the body section 2. That is to say, in the left-right direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the left-right direction, the left end and the right end of the supply tank 8 are each disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. Note that, as shown in FIG. 1, the left end of the supply tank 8 may also be disposed in the left section of the scrubber dryer 1A and the right end of the supply tank 8 may also be disposed in the right section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, the front end and rear end of the supply tank 8 are each disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. As shown in FIG. 2, the supply tank 8 is disposed rearward of the guide part 5. The supply tank 8 is mounted on the guide part 5. In the up-down direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the up-down direction, both the upper end and the lower end of the supply tank 8 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0085] In the present embodiment, the collection tank 9 is: in the left-right direction, disposed in the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the base section 3; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the middle section and the rear section of the base section 3; and in the up-down direction, disposed in the base section 3. That is to say, in the left-right direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed spanning the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the left-right direction, the left end of the collection tank 9 is disposed in the left section of the scrubber dryer 1A and the right end of the collection tank 9 is disposed in the right section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed spanning the middle section and the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, the front end of the collection tank 9 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A and the rear end of the collection tank 9 is disposed in the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the up-down direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the up-down direction, both the upper end and the lower end of the collection tank 9 are disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0086] In the present embodiment, the (at least one) power source 10 is: in the left-right direction, disposed in the middle section of the body section 2; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the front section of the body section 2; and in the up-down direction, disposed in the lower section of the body section 2. That is to say, in the left-right direction, the power source 10 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the left-right direction, the left end and the right end of the power source 10 are each disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, the power source 10 is disposed in the front section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, the front end and the rear end of the power source 10 are each disposed in the front section of the scrubber dryer 1A. As shown in FIG. 2, the power source 10 is disposed frontward of the guide part 5. In embodiments in which the power source 10 is a rechargeable battery pack that is detachable from the scrubber dryer 1A, ae battery mounting part may be provided on the front portion of the guide part 5. The power source 10 can be attached to and detached from the battery mounting part. In the up-down direction, the power source 10 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the up-down direction, both the upper end and the lower end of the power source 10 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0087] In the present embodiment, the suction motor 11 is: in the left-right direction, disposed in the middle section of the base section 3; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the middle section of the base section 3; and in the up-down direction, disposed in the base section 3. That is to say, in the left-right direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the left-right direction, both the left end and the right end of the suction motor 11 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. Note that, as shown in FIG. 1, the left end of the suction motor 11 may be disposed in the left section of the scrubber dryer 1A and the right end of the suction motor 11 may be disposed in the right section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the front-rear direction, both the front end and the rear end of the suction motor 11 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1A. Note that, as shown in FIG. 2, the front end of the suction motor 11 may also be disposed in the front section of the scrubber dryer 1A and the rear end of the suction motor 11 may also be disposed in the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the up-down direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1A. In the up-down direction, both the upper end and the lower end of the suction motor 11 are disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0088] As described above, the space between the left end and the right end of the scrubber dryer 1A is divided into three equal parts in the left-right direction, thereby defining a left section, a middle section, and a right section of the scrubber dryer 1A, in the left-right direction. The space between the front end and the rear end of the scrubber dryer 1A is divided into three equal parts in the front-rear direction, thereby defining a front section, a middle section, and a rear section of the scrubber dryer 1A, in the front-rear direction. The space between the upper end and the lower end of the scrubber dryer 1A is divided into three equal parts in the up-down direction, thereby defining an upper section, a middle section, and a lower section of the scrubber dryer 1A, in the up-down direction.

[0089] In the present embodiment, the left end of the scrubber dryer 1A is the left end of the left brush 6 or the left end of the collection tank 9. The right end of the scrubber dryer 1A is the right end of the right brush 6 or the right end of the collection tank 9. The front end of the scrubber dryer 1A is the front end of the power source 10. The rear end of the scrubber dryer 1A is the rear end of the collection tank 9. The upper end of the scrubber dryer 1A is the upper end of the handle 4. The lower end of the scrubber dryer 1A is the lower end of the brushes 6. Note that, in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, for ease of viewing the drawings, the grid of dotted lines showing each section of the scrubber dryer 1A is drawn slightly distanced from each of the left end, the right end, the upper end, the lower end, the front end, and the rear end of the scrubber dryer 1A.

[0090] As described above, in the present embodiment, the scrubber dryer 1A comprises: the base section 3, which includes the brushes 6 that contact the surface to be cleaned; the body section 2, which is disposed higher than the base section 3 and includes the handle 4; the supply tank 8, which stores the cleaning liquid that is supplied to the surface to be cleaned; and the collection tank 9, which stores liquid, dirt, debris, etc. that has been collected from the surface that is being cleaned. The supply tank 8 is disposed in the body section 2. The collection tank 9 is disposed in the base section 3.

[0091] In the configuration described above, because the supply tank 8 is disposed in the body section 2 and the collection tank 9 is disposed in the base section 3, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer 1A can be improved. Therefore, the handleability of the scrubber dryer 1A is enhanced.

[0092] In addition, because the supply tank 8 is disposed in the body section 2, the cleaning liquid stored in the supply tank 8 falls onto the surface to be cleaned under its own weight. Therefore, for example, a pump for supplying the cleaning liquid to the surface to be cleaned is not needed.

[0093] In addition, because the collection tank 9 is disposed in the base section 3, even if the operator manually tilts the body section 2 relative to the base section, spillage of the collected liquid (dirty liquid) stored in the collection tank 9, from the collection tank 9, is not likely to occur.

[0094] In addition, as cleaning operations progress, the amount of cleaning liquid stored in the supply tank 8 gradually decreases. That is to say, as cleaning operations progress, the weight of the supply tank 8 decreases. Because the supply tank 8 is disposed in the body section 2, the burden on the operator supporting the handle of the body section 2 gradually decreases as cleaning operations progress due to the fact that the weight of the supply tank 8 decreases.

[0095] In addition, as cleaning operations progress, the amount of liquid, dirt, debris, etc. stored in the collection tank 9 gradually increases. That is to say, as cleaning operations progress, the weight of the collection tank 9 increases. However, because the collection tank 9 is disposed in the base section 3, even though the weight of the collection tank 9 increases, the burden on the operator supporting the handle 4 of the body section 2 is not increased.

[0096] In the present embodiment, the scrubber dryer 1A comprises a (at least one) power source 10. The power source 10 is disposed in the body section 2.

[0097] In the configuration described above, because the power source 10 is disposed in the body section 2, contact between the power source 10 and the cleaning liquid supplied to the surface to be cleaned is unlikely to occur. In addition, because the power source 10 is disposed at a higher position than the collection tank 9, even if the collected liquid spills from the collection tank 9, contact between the power source 10 and the collection liquid is not likely to occur.

[0098] In the present embodiment, the scrubber dryer 1A comprises the (at least one) suction motor 11, which is driven so that the liquid, dirt, debris, etc. is collected (recovered, suctioned) from the surface that is being cleaned. The (at least one) suction motor 11 is disposed in the base section 3.

[0099] In the configuration described above, because both the suction motor 11 and the collection tank 9 are disposed in the base section 3, the suction motor 11 does not need to suction the liquid, etc. from the floor up to a high position. Therefore, the power consumption of the suction motor 11 can be reduced. In addition, because the suction motor 11 and the collection tank 9 are disposed at approximately the same height, even if the collection liquid stored in the collection tank 9 spills onto the surface that is being cleaned, contact between the suction motor 11 and the collection liquid is unlikely to occur.

[0100] In the present embodiment, the position of the supply tank 8 and the position of the collection tank 9 are different (in particular, in the up-down direction), and the position of the supply tank 8 and the position of the suction motor 11 are different (in particular, in the up-down direction).

[0101] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer 1A can be improved.

[0102] In the present embodiment, the position of the supply tank 8 and the position of the collection tank 9 are different (in particular, in the up-down direction), and the position of at least a portion of the collection tank 9 and the position of the suction motor 11 are the same (in particular, in the up-down direction).

[0103] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer 1A can be improved. In addition, by disposing the collection tank 9 so as to cover (surround), at least partially, more preferably completely, the suction motor 11, propagation of noise generated by the suction motor 11 to the surroundings of the scrubber dryer 1A is curtailed.

[0104] In the present embodiment, the position of the supply tank 8 and the position of the collection tank 9 are different (in particular, in the up-down direction), and the position of the power source 10 and the position of the suction motor 11 are different (in particular, in the up-down direction).

[0105] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer 1A can be improved.

[0106] In the present embodiment, the power source 10 is: in the left-right direction, disposed in the middle section of the body section 2; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the front section of the body section 2; and in the up-down direction, disposed in the lower section of the body section 2.

[0107] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer 1A can be improved.

[0108] In the present embodiment, the supply tank 8 is: in the left-right direction, disposed in the middle section of the body section 2; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the middle section of the body section 2; and, in the up-down direction, disposed in the lower section of the body section 2.

[0109] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer 1A can be improved.

[0110] In the present embodiment, the collection tank 9 is: in the left-right direction, disposed in the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the base section 3; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the middle section and the rear section of the base section 3; and in the up-down direction, disposed in the base section 3.

[0111] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer 1A can be improved.

[0112] In the present embodiment, the suction motor 11 is: in the left-right direction, disposed in the middle section of the base section 3; in the front-rear direction, disposed in the middle section of the base section 3; and in the up-down direction, disposed in the base section 3.

[0113] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer 1A can be improved.

Second Embodiment

[0114] A second embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 3. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiment described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiment above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0115] FIG. 3 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1B according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the scrubber dryer 1B has two power sources 10. The two power sources 10 are disposed in the up-down direction. In the left-right direction, the two power sources 10 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1B. In the up-down direction, the two power sources 10 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1B. In the front-rear direction, the two power sources 10 are disposed in the front section of the scrubber dryer 1B. The two power sources 10 are preferably two separate rechargeable battery packs that are preferably detachably attached to respective battery mounting parts provided on the guide part 5.

[0116] As described above, in the present embodiment, two power sources 10 are provided.

[0117] Owing to the configuration described above, the run time of the scrubber dryer 1B can be increased and/or the output power (e.g., the rotational speed of the brush(es) 6, the suction force generated by the suction motor(s) 11, etc.) can be increased.

[0118] In the present embodiment, the two power sources 10 are disposed in the up-down direction.

[0119] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer 1B can be improved.

Third Embodiment

[0120] A third embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 4. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0121] FIG. 4 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1C according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the scrubber dryer 1C has a supply tank 8. In the left-right direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed spanning the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the scrubber dryer 1C. In the left-right direction, the left end of the supply tank 8 is disposed in the left section of the scrubber dryer 1C, and the right end of the supply tank 8 is disposed in the right section of the scrubber dryer 1C. In the up-down direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1C. In the front-rear direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1C.

[0122] As described above, the supply tank 8 may be elongated in the left-right direction. If the dimension in the left-right direction (width) of the supply tank 8 is enlarged, then even if the dimension in the up-down direction (height) of the supply tank 8 is reduced, storage of a sufficient amount of cleaning liquid in the supply tank 8 can still be ensured. Because the dimension in the up-down direction (height) of the supply tank 8 is reduced, the center of gravity of the scrubber dryer 1C is lowered; therefore the load on the handle 4 held by the operator is reduced, and the handleability of the scrubber dryer 1C can be enhanced.

Fourth Embodiment

[0123] A fourth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 5. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0124] FIG. 5 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1D according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, the scrubber dryer 1D has two power sources 10. The two power sources 10 are disposed in the left-right direction. In the left-right direction, a left-side power source 10 is disposed spanning the middle section and the left section of the scrubber dryer 1D, and a right-side power source 10 is disposed spanning the middle section and the right section of the scrubber dryer 1D. In the up-down direction, the two power sources 10 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1D. In the front-rear direction, the two power sources 10 are disposed in the front section of the scrubber dryer 1D. Similar to the second embodiment described above, the two power sources 10 are preferably two separate rechargeable battery packs that are detachably attached to respective battery mounting parts disposed on the guide part 5.

[0125] As described above, in the present embodiment, two power sources 10 are provided.

[0126] Owing to the configuration described above, the run time and/or the output power of the scrubber dryer 1D can be increased.

[0127] In the present embodiment, the two power sources 10 are disposed in the left-right direction.

[0128] Owing to the configuration described above, the weight balance of the scrubber dryer 1D can be improved. Because the two power sources 10 are disposed in the left-right direction, the center of gravity of the scrubber dryer 1D is lowered; therefore the load on the handle 4 held by the operator is reduced, and the handleability of the scrubber dryer 1D can be enhanced.

Fifth Embodiment

[0129] A fifth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0130] FIG. 6 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1E according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 7 is a side view schematically illustrating the scrubber dryer according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the scrubber dryer 1E has a supply tank 8 and a (at least one) power source 10. In the front-rear direction, the power source 10 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1E. In the front-rear direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed in the front section of the scrubber dryer 1E. In the left-right direction, both the supply tank 8 and the power source 10 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1E. In the up-down direction, both the supply tank 8 and the power source 10 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1E.

[0131] As described above, in the front-rear direction, the supply tank 8 may be disposed only in the front section of the scrubber dryer 1E, and the power source 10 may be disposed only in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1E. Because the supply tank 8 is disposed in the front section of the scrubber dryer 1E, the operator can easily see the amount of cleaning liquid stored in the supply tank 8 (the amount remaining) while performing a cleaning operation.

Sixth Embodiment

[0132] A sixth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 8. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0133] FIG. 8 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1F according to the sixth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the scrubber dryer 1F has a (at least one) suction motor 11. In the up-down direction, the (at least one) suction motor 11 is disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1F. In the left-right direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1F. In the front-rear direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the front section of the scrubber dryer 1F. In addition, as compared to the fifth embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the positions of the (at least one) power source 10 and the supply tank 9 are switched, such that the power source 10 is disposed in the front, middle section of the scrubber dryer 1F and the supply tank 8 is disposed in the middle section in the front-rear direction and the middle section in the up-down direction.

[0134] As described above, in the front-rear direction, the (at least one) suction motor 11 may be disposed only in the front section of the scrubber dryer 1F.

Seventh Embodiment

[0135] A seventh embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 9. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0136] FIG. 9 is a front view schematically illustrating the scrubber dryer 1G according to the seventh embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9, the scrubber dryer 1G has a (at least one) suction motor 11. In the up-down direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1G. In the left-right direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1G. In the front-rear direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1G.

[0137] As described above, in the front-rear direction, the (at least one) suction motor 11 may be disposed only in the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1G.

Eighth Embodiment

[0138] An eighth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 10. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0139] FIG. 10 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1H according to the eighth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the scrubber dryer 1H has a (at least one) suction motor 11. In the up-down direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1H. In the left-right direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the left section of the scrubber dryer 1H. In the front-rear direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the front section, the middle section, or the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1H.

[0140] As described above, in left-right direction, the suction motor 11 may be disposed only in the left section of the scrubber dryer 1H.

Ninth Embodiment

[0141] A ninth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 11. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0142] FIG. 11 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1I according to the ninth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the scrubber dryer 1I has a (at least one) suction motor 11. In the up-down direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1I. In the left-right direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the right section of the scrubber dryer 1I. In the front-rear direction, the suction motor 11 is disposed in the front section, the middle section, or the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1I.

[0143] As described above, in the left-right direction, the suction motor 11 may be disposed only in the right section of the scrubber dryer 1I.

Tenth Embodiment

[0144] A tenth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0145] FIG. 12 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1J according to a tenth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a side view schematically illustrating the scrubber dryer 1J according to the tenth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the scrubber dryer 1J has a collection tank 9. In the up-down direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1J. In the left-right direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed spanning the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the scrubber dryer 1J. In the front-rear direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed spanning the front section, the middle section, and the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1J.

[0146] As described above, in the front-rear direction, the collection tank 9 may be disposed spanning the front section, the middle section, and the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1J.

Eleventh Embodiment

[0147] An eleventh embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 14. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0148] FIG. 14 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1K according to the eleventh embodiment. As shown in FIG. 14, the scrubber dryer 1K has a collection tank 9. In the up-down direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1K. In the left-right direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed spanning the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the scrubber dryer 1K. In the front-rear direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1K.

[0149] As described above, in the front-rear direction, the collection tank 9 may be disposed only in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1K.

Twelfth Embodiment

[0150] A twelfth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 15. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0151] FIG. 15 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1L according to the twelfth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, the scrubber dryer 1L has a collection tank 9. In the up-down direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed in the lower section of the scrubber dryer 1L. In the left-right direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed spanning the left section, the middle section, and the right section of the scrubber dryer 1L. In the front-rear direction, the collection tank 9 is disposed in the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1L.

[0152] As described above, in the front-rear direction, the collection tank 9 may be disposed only in the rear section of the scrubber dryer 1L.

Thirteenth Embodiment

[0153] A thirteenth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 16. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0154] FIG. 16 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1M according to the thirteenth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16, the scrubber dryer 1M has a power source 10 and a supply tank 8. In the up-down direction, both the power source 10 and the supply tank 8 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1M. In the front-rear direction, both the power source 10 and the supply tank 8 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1M. In the left-right direction, both the power source 10 and the supply tank 8 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1M.

[0155] As described above, in the front-rear direction, the power source 10 and the supply tank 8 may each be disposed only in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1M.

Fourteenth Embodiment

[0156] A fourteenth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0157] FIG. 17 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1N according to the fourteenth embodiment. FIG. 18 is a side view schematically illustrating the scrubber dryer 1N according to the fourteenth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 17 and FIG. 18, the scrubber dryer 1N has a supply tank 8. In the up-down direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1N. In the left-right direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1N. In the front-rear direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed spanning the front section and the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1N.

[0158] As described above, in the front-rear direction, the supply tank 8 may be disposed in the front section and the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1N.

Fifteenth Embodiment

[0159] A fifteenth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0160] FIG. 19 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1O according to the fifteenth embodiment. FIG. 20 is a side view schematically illustrating the scrubber dryer 1O according to the fifteenth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 19 and FIG. 20, the scrubber dryer 1O has a (at least one) power source 10 and a supply tank 8. In the up-down direction, both the power source 10 and the supply tank 8 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1O. In the left-right direction, both the power source 10 and the supply tank 8 are disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1O. In the front-rear direction, both the power source 10 and the supply tank 8 are disposed spanning the front section and the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1O.

[0161] Preferably, the scrubber dryer 1O of the fifteenth embodiment has two power sources 10, i.e. two separate rechargeable battery packs that are detachably attached to respective battery mounting parts disposed on the guide part 5. The two power sources 10 are disposed (arranged, aligned) in the front-rear direction. More specifically, in the front-rear direction, the front power source 10 is disposed in the front section of the scrubber dryer 1O, and the rear power source 10 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1O.

[0162] As described above, in the front-rear direction, both the power source(s) 10 and the supply tank 8 may be disposed in the front section and the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1O.

Sixteenth Embodiment

[0163] A sixteenth embodiment will now be described with references to FIGS. 21 and 22. In the following description, components that are the same or equivalent to those in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those components will be simplified or omitted. That is, unless explicitly contradicted in the following description, all features and structures described in the embodiments above may be utilized in the present embodiment, whereby such description is incorporated into the description of the present embodiment by reference.

[0164] FIG. 21 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrubber dryer 1P according to the sixteenth embodiment. FIG. 22 is a side view schematically illustrating the scrubber dryer 1P according to the sixteenth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 21 and FIG. 22, the scrubber dryer 1P has a supply tank 8. In the up-down direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed spanning the upper section and the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1P. In the left-right direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1P. In the front-rear direction, the supply tank 8 is disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1P.

[0165] As described above, in the up-down direction, the supply tank 8 may be disposed in the upper section and the middle section of the scrubber dryer 1P.

ADDITIONAL EMBODIMENTS ACCORDING TO THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0166] In each of the embodiments described above, the brush motors 7 were disposed at the boundary between the front section and the middle section of the scrubber dryer. However, the brush motors 7 need not be disposed at the boundary between the front section and the middle section of the scrubber dryer. Instead, the brush motors 7 may be disposed in the front section or may be disposed in the middle section of the scrubber dryer. The central (rotational) axes of the brush motors 7 and the central (rotational) axes of the brushes 6 may be offset.

[0167] In each of the embodiments described above, the guide part 5 was a rod-shaped member elongated in the up-down direction. In the alternative, at least a portion of the guide part 5 may include a housing (case). The housing may be provided, in the up-down direction, in the lower section of the body section 2. Some of the components of the scrubber dryer may be accommodated within the housing.

[0168] In each of the embodiments described above, two brushes 6 were provided. However, only one brush 6 need be provided. In such alternate embodiments, only one brush motor 7 may be required to rotatably drive the one brush 6.

[0169] The components of each of the embodiments described above can be combined as appropriate. The power source(s) 10 may be disposed in any section except the left section of the base section 3, the left section of the body section 2, the right section of the base section 3, the right section of the body section 2, the rear section of the base section 3, and the upper, rear section of the body section 2. The suction motor(s) 11 may be disposed in any section except the upper section and the middle section of the body section 2. The supply tank 8 may be disposed in any section except the base section 3 and the rear section of the body section 2. The collection tank 9 may be disposed in any section except the upper section and the middle section of the body section 2. In addition, the power source(s) 10, the suction motor(s) 11, the supply tank 8, and the collection tank 9 may each be disposed spanning a plurality of sections or may be disposed in only one section. The term section (or portion) refers to 27 sections (or portions), which are the upper, front, left section, the upper, front, left-right-direction middle section, the upper, front, right section, the upper, front-rear-direction middle, left section, the upper, front-rear-direction middle, left-right-direction middle section, the upper, front-rear-direction middle, right section, the upper, rear, left section, the upper, rear, left-right-direction middle section, the upper, rear, right section, the up-down-direction middle, front, left section, the up-down-direction middle, front, left-right-direction middle section, the up-down-direction middle, front, right section, the up-down-direction middle, front-rear-direction middle, left section, the up-down-direction middle, front-rear-direction middle, left-right-direction middle section, the up-down-direction middle, front-rear-direction middle, right section, the up-down-direction middle, rear, left section, the up-down-direction middle, rear, left-right-direction middle section, the up-down-direction middle, rear, right section, the lower, front, left section, the lower, front, left-right-direction middle section, the lower, front, right section, the lower, front-rear-direction middle, left section, the lower, front-rear-direction middle, left-right-direction middle section, the lower, front-rear-direction middle, right section, the lower, rear, left section, the lower, rear, left-right-direction middle section, and the lower, rear, right section of the scrubber dryer.

[0170] Additional aspects of the present teachings disclosed herein include, but are not limited to: [0171] 1. A scrubber dryer (1A-1P), comprising: [0172] a base section (3), which includes a brush (6) adapted to contact a surface to be cleaned; [0173] a body section (2), which is disposed higher than the base section and includes a handle (4); [0174] a supply tank (8) adapted to store a cleaning liquid that is supplied to the surface to be cleaned; and [0175] a collection tank (9) adapted to store liquid, dirt, debris, etc. that has been collected from the surface while the surface is being cleaned, [0176] wherein: [0177] the supply tank (8) is disposed in the body section (2) and [0178] the collection tank (9) is disposed in the base section (3). [0179] 2. The scrubber dryer (1A-1P) according to the above Aspect 1, further comprising: [0180] a first power source (10) disposed in the body section (2). [0181] 3. The scrubber dryer (1A-1D, 1F-1L, 1O-1P) according to the above Aspect 2, wherein the first power source (10) is: [0182] in a left-right direction, disposed in a middle section of the body section (2); [0183] in a front-rear direction, disposed in a front section of the body section; and [0184] in an up-down direction, disposed in a lower section of the body section. [0185] 4. The scrubber dryer (1B, 1D, 1O) according to the above Aspect 2 or 3, further comprising a second power source (10) disposed in the body section (2). [0186] 5. The scrubber dryer (1B, 1D) according to any one of the above Aspects 2-4, wherein the first and second power sources (10) are arranged in an (the) up-down direction or a (the) left-right direction. [0187] 6. The scrubber dryer (1A-1P) according to any preceding claim, further comprising: [0188] a suction motor (11) adapted to generate a suction force that suctions the liquid, dirt, debris, etc. that is to be collected from the surface while the surface is being cleaned, wherein the suction motor is disposed in the base section (3). [0189] 7. The scrubber dryer (1A-1E, 1J-1P) according to the above Aspect 6, wherein the suction motor (11) is: [0190] in a (the) left-right direction, disposed in a middle section of the base section (3); and [0191] in a (the) front-rear direction, disposed in a middle section of the base section. [0192] 8. The scrubber dryer (1A) according to the above Aspect 6 or 7, wherein: [0193] the position of the supply tank (8) and the position of the collection tank (9) are different and [0194] the position of the supply tank and the position of the suction motor (11) are different. [0195] 9. The scrubber dryer (1A) according to any one of the above Aspects 6-8, wherein: [0196] the position of the supply tank (8) and the position of the collection tank (9) are different and [0197] the position of at least a portion of the collection tank and the position of the suction motor (11) are the same. [0198] 10. The scrubber dryer (1A) according to the above Aspect 6, wherein: [0199] the position of the supply tank (8) and the position of the collection tank (9) are different and [0200] the position of the first power source (10) and the position of the suction motor (11) are different. [0201] 11. The scrubber dryer (1A-1D, 1F-1P) according to any preceding claim, wherein the supply tank (8) is: [0202] in a (the) left-right direction, disposed in a middle section of the body section; [0203] in a (the) front-rear direction, disposed in a middle section of the body section; and [0204] in an (the) up-down direction, disposed in a lower section of the body section. [0205] 12. The scrubber dryer (1A-1J, 1M-1P) according to any preceding the above Aspect, wherein the collection tank (9) is: [0206] in a (the) left-right direction, disposed in a left section, a middle section, and a right section of the base section; and [0207] in a (the) front-rear direction, disposed in a middle section and a rear section of the base section. [0208] 13. The scrubber dryer (1A-1P) according to any preceding the above Aspect, further comprising: [0209] a guide part (5) that connects the handle (4) to the base section (3) and is disposed in the body section (2), the guide part being tiltable relative to the base section.

[0210] Representative, non-limiting examples of the present invention were described above in detail with reference to the attached drawings. This detailed description is merely intended to teach a person of skill in the art further details for practicing preferred aspects of the present teachings and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, each of the additional features and teachings disclosed above may be utilized separately or in conjunction with other features and teachings to provide improved impact tools and similar power tools.

[0211] Moreover, combinations of features and steps disclosed in the above detailed description may not be necessary to practice the invention in the broadest sense, and are instead taught merely to particularly describe representative examples of the invention. Furthermore, various features of the above-described representative examples, as well as the various independent and dependent claims below, may be combined in ways that are not specifically and explicitly enumerated in order to provide additional useful embodiments of the present teachings.

[0212] All features disclosed in the description and/or the claims are intended to be disclosed separately and independently from each other for the purpose of original written disclosure, as well as for the purpose of restricting the claimed subject matter, independent of the compositions of the features in the embodiments and/or the claims. In addition, all value ranges or indications of groups of entities are intended to disclose every possible intermediate value or intermediate entity for the purpose of original written disclosure, as well as for the purpose of restricting the claimed subject matter.

EXPLANATION OF THE REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0213] 1A: scrubber dryer [0214] 1B: scrubber dryer [0215] 1C: scrubber dryer [0216] 1D: scrubber dryer [0217] 1E: scrubber dryer [0218] 1F: scrubber dryer [0219] 1G: scrubber dryer [0220] 1H: scrubber dryer [0221] 1I: scrubber dryer [0222] 1J: scrubber dryer [0223] 1K: scrubber dryer [0224] 1L: scrubber dryer [0225] 1M: scrubber dryer [0226] 1N: scrubber dryer [0227] 1O: scrubber dryer [0228] 1P: scrubber dryer [0229] 2: body section [0230] 3: base section [0231] 4: handle [0232] 5: guide part [0233] 6: brush [0234] 7: brush motor [0235] 8: supply tank [0236] 9: collection tank [0237] 10: power source [0238] 11: suction motor