SURFACE CLEANING APPARATUS WITH USER INTERFACE

Abstract

 A surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) includes a cleaning head (16, 116, 302, 402) adapted to move over a surface to be cleaned, a housing (18, 118, 304, 404) coupled with the cleaning head (16, 116, 302, 402), a first user interface (12, 112, 312, 412) on the housing (18, 118, 304, 404), and a second user interface (14, 114, 314, 414) on the cleaning head (16, 116, 302, 402). The first user interface (12, 112, 312, 412) includes at least one user input control. The second user interface (14, 114, 314, 414) includes a plurality of status indicia.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Surface cleaning apparatuses are well-known devices for removing dirt from a variety of surfaces such as carpets, hard floors, or other fabric surfaces such as upholstery. Such surface cleaning apparatuses can include various cleaning systems, such as a vacuum collection system, a fluid delivery system, and/or a fluid recovery system. For example, a typical extraction cleaner (e.g. deep cleaner) includes a fluid delivery system and a fluid recovery system, and can be embodied in one of a number of typical architectures, including upright, portable or handheld cleaners, canister, unattended (e.g. a spot cleaner), and autonomous (e.g., a robot). A typical wet/dry vacuum cleaner adapted for cleaning hard and soft floor surfaces can also include a fluid delivery system and a fluid recovery system, and may deposit cleaning fluid at a lower flow rate than a typical extraction cleaner. Other common types of surface cleaning apparatuses are vacuum cleaners, mops, sweepers, and the like.

[0002] To communicate with the user, surface cleaning apparatus have user interfaces that can visually or audibly convey information to a user. Such communication has traditionally been limited, and may provide insufficient information to the user. The location of user interfaces has also been restricted by the architecture of the apparatus, and often requires a particular line of sight between the user and the interface. It can therefore be difficult to know when information is being conveyed while operating the surface cleaning apparatus or when the user is away from the apparatus. Accordingly, a need remains for improving user experience and facilitating interaction between the user and the surface cleaning apparatus.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0003] A surface cleaning apparatus with improved user interface features is provided herein to improve user experience.

[0004] According to one aspect of the disclosure, a surface cleaning apparatus includes a cleaning head adapted to move over a surface to be cleaned, a housing coupled with the cleaning head, at least cleaning system selected from a vacuum collection system, a fluid delivery system, and a fluid recovery system, a first user interface on the housing, and a second user interface on the cleaning head. The first user interface has a mode select input control to select a mode of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus and status indicators representing the modes of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus. The second user interface has a status display having duplicate status indicators representing the modes of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus. The first and second user interfaces are structured so that when the surface cleaning apparatus is on, a status indicator corresponding to a selected mode of operation is illuminated and visible to a user on each of the housing and the cleaning head.

[0005] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a surface cleaning apparatus includes a cleaning head adapted to move over a surface to be cleaned, a housing coupled with the cleaning head, at least cleaning system selected from a vacuum collection system, a fluid delivery system, and a fluid recovery system, a first user interface on the housing, and a second user interface on the cleaning head. The first user interface has a mode select input control to select a mode of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus. The second user interface has a status display having status indicators representing the modes of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus, and is structured so that when the apparatus is off, the status display is blank, and when the apparatus is on, a status indicator corresponding to a selected mode of operation is illuminated and visible to a user.

[0006] These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of particular embodiments, when viewed in accordance with the accompanying drawings and appended claims.

[0007] Before the embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the details of operation or to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention may be implemented in various other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in alternative ways not expressly disclosed herein. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including" and "comprising" and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof. Further, enumeration may be used in the description of various embodiments. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the use of enumeration should not be construed as limiting the invention to any specific order or number of components. Nor should the use of enumeration be construed as excluding from the scope of the invention any additional steps or components that might be combined with or into the enumerated steps or components. Any reference to claim elements as "at least one of X, Y and Z" is meant to include any one of X, Y or Z individually, and any combination of X, Y and Z, for example, X, Y, Z; X, Y; X, Z ; and Y, Z.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] 

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a surface cleaning apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the apparatus including a first user interface and a second user interface, and shown being operated by a user;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of one embodiment of the first user interface;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of one embodiment of the second user interface;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an upright floor cleaner with wet cleaning capabilities according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the floor cleaner including a first user interface on a handle and a second user interface on a base, and shown being operated by a user;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of various functional systems of the floor cleaner from FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing one configuration for the user interfaces of the floor cleaner of FIG. 4, along with a portion of the handle and base;

FIG. 7 is a schematic view showing the second user interface of FIG. 6 in an operational state where the floor cleaner is off;

FIG. 8 is a schematic view showing the second user interface of FIG. 6 in an operational state where the floor cleaner is in a hard floor mode;

FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing the second user interface of FIG. 6 in an operational state where the floor cleaner is in an area rug mode;

FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing the second user interface of FIG. 6 in an operational state where the floor cleaner is in a hard floor mode and a steam warm-up state of a steam mode;

FIG. 11 is a schematic view showing the second user interface of FIG. 6 in an operational state where the floor cleaner is in a hard floor mode and a steam ready state of a steam mode;

FIG. 12 is a schematic view showing the second user interface and a base light in an operational state where the floor cleaner is in a hard floor mode and is dispensing liquid;

FIG. 13 is a schematic view showing the second user interface and the base light in an operational state where the floor cleaner is in a hard floor mode and steam mode, and is dispensing liquid and steam;

FIG. 14 is a schematic view similar to FIG. 13, showing an alternative configuration for the steam dispensing state of the floor cleaner;

FIG. 15 is a schematic view showing the first user interface in an operational state where the floor cleaner is off and not ready for self-cleaning;

FIG. 16 is a schematic view showing the first user interface in an operational state where the floor cleaner is off and ready for self-cleaning;

FIG. 17 is a schematic view showing another configuration for the user interfaces of the floor cleaner of FIG. 4, along with a portion of the handle and base;

FIG. 18 is a schematic view showing yet another configuration for the user interfaces of the floor cleaner of FIG. 4, along with a portion of the handle and base;

FIG. 19 is a schematic view showing still another configuration for the user interfaces of the floor cleaner of FIG. 4, along with a portion of the handle and base;

FIG. 20 is a schematic view showing the second user interface of FIG. 19 in an operational state where the floor cleaner is in a liquid/steam cleaning mode;

FIG. 21 is a schematic view showing the second user interface of FIG. 19 in an operational state where the floor cleaner is in a liquid cleaning mode;

FIG. 22 is a schematic view showing the second user interface of FIG. 19 in an operational state where the floor cleaner is in a steam boost mode;

FIG. 23 is a schematic view showing still another configuration for the user interfaces of the floor cleaner of FIG. 4, along with a portion of the handle and base, where the base includes at least one additional light;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a canister floor cleaner according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the floor cleaner including a first user interface on a wand and a second user interface on a cleaning head;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a portable extraction cleaner according to still another aspect of the present disclosure, the portable extraction cleaner including a first user interface on a housing and a second user interface on a tool;

FIG. 26 is a schematic view showing another configuration for the user interfaces of the floor cleaner of FIG. 4, along with a portion of the handle, frame, and base; and

FIG. 27 is a schematic view showing yet another configuration for the user interfaces of the floor cleaner of FIG. 4, along with a portion of the handle and base.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0009] The invention generally relates to a surface cleaning apparatus with multiple user interfaces. In particular, aspects of the invention relate to a surface cleaning apparatus with an improved user communication and experience.

[0010] As used herein, the term "dirt" includes dirt, dust, hair, and other debris, unless otherwise noted.

[0011] As used herein, the term "cleaning fluid" may encompass liquid, steam, or a mixture of both liquid and steam.

[0012] As used herein, the term "steam" includes a liquid, such as, but not limited to, water or solutions containing water (like water mixed with a cleaning chemistry, fragrance, etc.), at least partially converted to a gas or vapor phase. The liquid can be boiled or otherwise at least partially converted to the gas or vapor phase by heating or mechanical action like nebulizing. For example, liquid can be heated to around 100 ± 10 °C, alternately about 90 to 100 °C, alternatively about 95 to 98 °C to produce steam. The steam can be invisible to the naked eye, in the form of a visible mist formed when the gas or vapor condenses in air, or combinations thereof. Steam may have a steam quality of 100%, or less than 100%. As used herein, "steam quality" is the proportion of saturated steam in a saturated condensate (liquid) and steam mixture. For example, saturated steam vapor has a steam quality of 100%, and saturated liquid has a steam quality of 0%.

[0013] FIG. 1 shows a surface cleaning apparatus 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure. As discussed in further detail below, the apparatus 10 is provided with user interface features consistent with one or more aspects of the disclosure, the details of which are described in further detail below. As explained herein, the user interface features enable the apparatus 10 to accept user inputs for controlling the apparatus 10, function as a communication output device, and/or provide an improved user experience. The apparatus 10 may include a first user interface ("first UI") 12 and a second user interface ("second UI") 14 to accomplish one or more of the aforementioned functions.

[0014] The apparatus 10 includes a cleaning head adapted to move over a surface to be cleaned, a housing coupled with the cleaning head, and at least cleaning system. One UI 12 can be provided on the housing and the other UI 14 can be provided on the cleaning head. The UIs 12, 14 can, among other abilities, accept user inputs for controlling the cleaning system and/or function as a communication output device for the cleaning system.

[0015] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the surface cleaning apparatus 10 can be an upright floor cleaner including a cleaning head in the form of a base 16 adapted to move over a surface to be cleaned and a housing in the form of an upright body 18 coupled with the base 16 to direct the base 16 over the surface to be cleaned. As used herein, the term upright floor cleaner is intended to refer to various types of floor cleaners including, but not limited to, upright floor cleaners, stick floor cleaners, convertible floor cleaners (e.g., a floor cleaner capable of being used as an upright- or stick-type cleaner as well as a handheld cleaner), a lift-off floor cleaners (e.g., a floor cleaner capable of being used as an upright-type cleaner as well as a canister type cleaner), extraction cleaners (also referred to as carpet cleaners or extraction cleaners), steam cleaners, mopping cleaners, and the like, or combinations thereof. For example, an upright floor cleaner may be an extraction cleaner.

[0016] For purposes of description related to the figures, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," "outer," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in FIG. 1 from the perspective of a user 20 behind the apparatus 10, which defines the rear of the apparatus 10. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary.

[0017] In one example, the upright floor cleaner 10 can be a vacuum cleaner including at least a vacuum collection system for creating a partial vacuum to suck up dirt from a floor surface and collect the removed dirt in a space provided on the vacuum cleaner for later disposal.

[0018] In another example, the upright floor cleaner 10 can be a wet/dry vacuum cleaner including at least a fluid delivery system for storing cleaning fluid and delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned and a vacuum collection system for creating a partial vacuum to suck up the cleaning fluid and dirt from a floor surface and collect the removed dirt in a space provided on the vacuum cleaner for later disposal. The fluid delivery system may be configured to deliver liquid and/or steam to the surface to be cleaned.

[0019] In yet another example, the upright floor cleaner 10 can be an extraction cleaner or deep cleaner, and can include a fluid delivery system for storing cleaning fluid and delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned and a fluid recovery system for removing the cleaning fluid and dirt from the surface to be cleaned and storing the recovered cleaning fluid and dirt. The fluid delivery system may be configured to deliver liquid and/or steam to the surface to be cleaned. In comparison to the wet/dry vacuum cleaner, an extraction cleaner typically delivers cleaning fluid at a higher flow rate to the surface to be cleaned. For example, the flow rate of an extraction cleaner may deliver 10X to 20X that of a wet/dry vacuum cleaner.

[0020] In still another example, the upright floor cleaner 10 can be a wet mopping or sweeping apparatus, including a fluid delivery system for storing cleaning fluid and delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned and a mopping or sweeping system for removing cleaning fluid and dirt from the surface to be cleaned without the use of suction. The fluid delivery system may be configured to deliver liquid and/or steam to the surface to be cleaned.

[0021] The base 16 can comprise any type of base, foot, or other cleaning head suitable for the purposes described herein, including being moved over a floor surface to be cleaned. The base 16 may include any of a suction nozzle, an agitator (e.g. a brushroll, a pad, etc.), a squeegee, a wheel, a pump, a heater, a motor, a tank, a filter, a dispenser, a battery, a wireless communication module, a hose, and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0022] The upright body 18 can comprise any type of elongated handle, wand, body, or combination thereof suitable for the purposes described herein, including for a user to maneuver the floor cleaner 10 over a floor surface to be cleaned. The upright body 18 can be adapted to pivot about one or more axes through a range of angles relative to the base 16. Optionally, the upright body 18 can be configured so as to swivel about its longitudinal axis in addition to pivoting relative to the base 16. FIG. 1 shows one example of the upright body 18 reclined to a use position. The upright body 18 may also be movable to and retainable in an upright storage position.

[0023] The body 18 of FIG. 1 includes a handle 22 having a grip 24, which may be shaped to be comfortably gripped by one hand of the user 20. Other components of the body 18 may include any of a pump, a motor, a tank, a filter, a dispenser, a battery, a wireless communication module, a wand, a hose, and the like, or any combination thereof. Optionally, the body 18 can have a carry handle 25 to facilitate lifting and carrying the entire floor cleaner 10.

[0024] The first UI 12 can comprise an input UI having at least one user input control operably connected to one or more components or systems of the floor cleaner 10 to affect and control its operation. Non-limiting examples of input controls include buttons, triggers, toggles, keys, switches, touchscreen icons, or the like, or any combination thereof.

[0025] The first UI 12 is configured to accept user inputs to control the floor cleaner 10, including systems or components thereof. For example, the input controls may affect and control the operation of a vacuum collection system, a fluid delivery system (e.g., a liquid delivery system and/or a steam delivery system), a fluid recovery system, a mopping system, a sweeping system, and the like, or any combination thereof. As yet another example, the input controls may affect and control the operation of a motor, a brushroll, a liquid dispenser, a steam dispenser, a pump, a filter, a supply tank, a recovery tank, a battery, a wireless communication module, and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0026] The second UI 14 can comprise an output UI including at least one status indicator, or a status display including a plurality of status indicators, that communicates a condition or status of the floor cleaner, including systems and components thereof, to the user. Non-limiting examples of status indicators include visual indicators such as lights (e.g., LEDs), icon displays, textual displays, graphical displays, or the like, or any combination thereof. The second UI 14 can also include an auditory output component, such as a speaker.

[0027] The second UI 14 is configured to indicate status information relating to the floor cleaner 10, including systems or components thereof. For example, the display may indicate a cleaning mode of the floor cleaner 10, a Wi-Fi connections status of the floor cleaner, and the like, or any combination thereof. As another example, the display may indicate the status of a vacuum collection system, a fluid delivery system (e.g., a liquid delivery system or a steam delivery system), a fluid recovery system, a mopping system, a sweeping system, and the like, or any combination thereof. As yet another example, the display may indicate that status of a motor, a brushroll, a liquid dispenser, a steam dispenser, a pump, a filter, a supply tank, a recovery tank, a battery, a wireless communication module, and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0028] While the first UI 12 is referred to herein as an input UI, in some embodiments the first UI 12 may have an output functionality as well. For example, the first UI 12 may, in some embodiments, include at least one status indicator that communicates a condition or status of the floor cleaner, including systems and components thereof, to the user. In other embodiments, the first UI 12 solely accepts input, and does not provide outputs to the user.

[0029] Likewise, while the second UI 14 is referred to herein as an output UI, in some embodiments the second UI 14 may have an input functionality as well. For example, the second UI 14 may, in some embodiments, include at least one user input control operably connected to one or more components or systems of the floor cleaner 10 to affect and control its operation. In other embodiments, the second UI 14 solely provides output, and does not accept inputs from the user.

[0030] The first and second UIs 12, 14 are separate from each other, and are located on different areas of the floor cleaner 10. The handle 22 can include the first UI 12. The first UI 12 can conveniently be located adjacent to the grip 24, so that the user 20 may hold the grip 24 in one hand and operate the first UI 12 with the same hand. For example, the user 20 may wrap their palm and fingers around the grip 24 and operate the first UI 12 using the thumb of the same hand. Similarly, an input control 26 can conveniently be located adjacent to the grip 24 and first UI 12. For example, the user 20 may operate the input control 26 using the forefinger of the same hand holding the grip 24. Conveniently, in one arrangement, the UI 12 is disposed on a front side of the grip 24 and the input control 26 is disposed on a rear side of the grip 24.

[0031] Although shown on an upper portion of the handle 22, adjacent the grip 24, other locations for the first UI 12 are possible, including locations where the user 20 must hold the grip 24 in one hand and operate the first UI 12 with their other hand. It may be preferred that the first UI 12 is in a location that the user 20 holding the grip 24 may operate the first UI 12 without having to bend down or take their hand off the grip 24. Such locations include, but are not limited to, on the carry handle 25, on a portion 28 of the handle 22 other than the grip 24, or on an upper portion 30 of the upright body 18. FIG. 1 shows some non-limiting examples of alternative locations for the first UI 12 in phantom line. In some aspects, the first UI 12 may include a first portion on the handle 22 and a second portion in another location, such as the carry handle 25, portion 28, or upper portion 30, for example.

[0032] The cleaning head, in FIG. 1 the base 16, can include the second UI 14. The second UI 14 can conveniently be located in a field of view 32 of the user 20 operating the apparatus. As used herein, the user's "field of view" 32 is the observable area a person can see through their eyes. When operating a surface cleaning apparatus, the user 20 commonly looks down the apparatus toward a surface being cleaned and/or toward the cleaning head or base 16 moving over the surface. For example, to operate the upright floor cleaner 10, the user 20 may stand generally behind the floor cleaner 10 and hold the grip 24 in one hand. During operation, the user 20 may commonly switch between looking straight out and down the floor cleaner 10 toward a floor surface 34 being cleaned. For example, during operation, the user 20 may shift their focus across the field of view 32 as they observe the surface they are in the process of cleaning (the portion of the surface the base 16 is traveling over and/or about to travel over in the next instant) and the portion of the surface they intend to move the base 16 to next as they proceed with the cleaning the surface according to the user's particular travel pattern across the surface. As such, their field of view 32 includes the base 16 of the floor cleaner 10, and may also include a lower front portion 36 of the upright body 18. Locating the second UI 14 on the base 16 positions the second UI 14 in the user's field of view 32.

[0033] During operation of the floor cleaner 10, the user 20 can quickly glance back and forth between the floor surface 34 being cleaned and the second UI 14. Even when the user's attention is focused on the floor surface 34, changes displayed on the second UI 14 are within the user's field of view 32, and so may readily draw the user's attention to the information conveyed by second UI 14.

[0034] Typically, a range of up to 60 degrees from a horizontal sight line H is a comfortable visible range for most people without straining the eyes. Thus, in some configurations the UI 14 can be located within 60 degrees from the horizontal sight line H of the user 20. Further, to be inclusive of the anthropometric height range of typical users, the UI 14 can be located within the field of view 32 of user 20 having a height within a range of a 5^th percentile female to a 95^th percentile male.

[0035] In the case of an upright architecture, like the floor cleaner 10 of FIG. 1, the second UI 14 may be on a portion of the base 16 that is within the user's field of view 32 when the upright body 18 is reclined to the use position. When in the upright storage position, the second UI 14 may be blocked or partially blocked from view by the user 20 standing behind the floor cleaner 10, but may be visible to a user approaching the floor cleaner 10 from the front or side of the floor cleaner 10. In other configurations, the second UI 14 may be within the user's field of view 32 regardless of whether it is in the reclined use position or upright storage position.

[0036] Although shown on the base 16, and particularly on a top side 38 of the base 16, other locations for the second UI 14 are possible. It may be preferred that the second UI 14 is in a location that the user 20 holding the grip 24 may view the second UI 14 without having to bend down or take their hand off the grip 24. Such locations include, but are not limited to, the lower front portion 36 of the upright body 18. FIG. 1 shows some non-limiting examples of alternative locations for the second UI 14 in phantom line.

[0037] The floor cleaner 10 can further include a main controller 40 operably coupled with the various function systems and components of the floor cleaner 10, including the first and second UIs 12, 14. The main controller 40 can further be operably coupled with one or more sensors for receiving input about the floor cleaner 10 or its environment, and can use the sensor input to control the operation of the floor cleaner 10.

[0038] The UIs 12, 14 can take various arrangements. FIGS. 2 and 3 are diagrams showing a cross-section of one embodiment of the first UI 12 and one embodiment of the second UI 14, respectively.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 2, one embodiment of the first UI 12 is shown, and includes multiple user input controls 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D. Four input controls are shown, although it is understood that more than four or less than four input controls are possible.

[0040] The input controls 50A-50D can include a switch 52A-D within the upright body 18 and a switch cover or button 54A-D that is on an exterior surface of the floor cleaner 10 or forms an exterior surface of the floor cleaner 10. As shown in FIG. 2, the button 54A-D are on the handle grip 24. In operation, a user presses one of the buttons 54A-D to actuate the associated switch 52A-D, and the switch 52A-D controls one or more components or systems of the floor cleaner 10 to affect and control its operation.

[0041] Each input control 50A-50D is preferably provided with an icon 56A-D. The icons 56A-D can be in the form of graphics, symbols, words, or a combination thereof. Various icons are possible, and preferably give the user an indication of the purpose of the input control 50A-50D.

[0042] The icons 56A-D can be added to the button 54A-D by pad printing, attaching a label, adhering a graphic, or the like. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the input controls 50A-C include icons 56A-C added to their button 54A-C by pad printing, and are visible at all times to the user. In another embodiment, the icons 56A-D can next to the button 54A-D.

[0043] At least one of the user input controls, here input control 50D, can have a contextual or context-based icon 56D structured so that, when the function associated with the input control 50D is not available to the user, the icon is not visible to the user. The contextual icon 56D is only visible at an appropriate time and under appropriate conditions for selection of the function associated with the input control 50D. Thus, the contextual icon 56D informs the user when a specific feature is available.

[0044] In some embodiments, when the function associated with the input control 50D is not available to the user, pressing the input control 50D does not affect or control the associated function. Thus, display of the contextual icon 56D to the user is associated with an enablement of the associated function that allows the associated function to be selected by the user.

[0045] The contextual icon 56D can be a back-lit icon structured so that, when the function associated with the input control 50D is not available to the user, the icon 56D is hidden or dead, e.g. not illuminated by an LED 58 or other illumination source, and when the function associated with the input control is available to the user, the icon 56D is illuminated and visible to the user. The back-lit icon 56D can be in the form of a graphic, symbol, word, or a combination thereof. For example, the input control 50D can have a back-lit graphic on the switch cover 54D. In another example, the input control 50D can have a back-lit dot or other symbol adjacent to the switch cover 54D, which may itself include a graphic or other icon that is always visible.

[0046] The switches 52A-D and LED 58 can be mounted on a PCB 62. As used herein, unless otherwise noted, the term "PCB" includes a printed circuit board having a plurality of electrical and electronic components that provide operational control to the floor cleaner 10. The PCB includes, for example, a processing unit (e.g., a microprocessor, a microcontroller, or another suitable programmable device) and a memory (e.g., a read-only memory ("ROM"), a random access memory ("RAM"), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory ("EEPROM"), a flash memory, or another suitable magnetic, optical, physical, or electronic memory device). The processing unit is connected to the memory and executes instructions (e.g., software) that is capable of being stored in the RAM (e.g., during execution), the ROM (e.g., on a generally permanent basis), or another non-transitory computer readable medium such as another memory or a disc. Additionally or alternatively, the memory is included in the processing unit (e.g., as part of a microcontroller). Software stored in memory includes, for example, firmware, program data, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. The processing unit is configured to retrieve from memory and execute, among other things, instructions related to the control processes and methods described herein. The PCB can also include, among other things, a plurality of additional passive and active components such as resistors, capacitors, inductors, integrated circuits, and amplifiers. These components are arranged and connected to provide a plurality of electrical functions to the PCB including, among other things, signal conditioning or voltage regulation. For descriptive purposes, a PCB and the electrical components populated on the PCB are collectively referred to as a controller. Thus, the PCB 62 of the first user interface 12 and the electrical components populated on the PCB 62 may be referred to as a first user interface controller.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 3, one embodiment of the second UI 14 is shown, and includes a hidden status display 70 with a plurality of status indicators 72A-C. The second UI 14 can be structured so that when the floor cleaner is off, the status display 70 is blank and the status indicators 72A-C are hidden or dead, e.g. not illuminated, and when the floor cleaner is on, the status indicators 72A-C may selectively be illuminated and visible to the user. As explained in further detail below, the status indicators 72A-C can be back-lit icons that are hidden or dead, e.g. not illuminated, under a first condition and may selectively be illuminated and visible under a second condition. Three status indicators 72A-C are shown, although it is understood that more than three or less than three status indicators are possible.

[0048] The status display 70 includes a masking layer 74 on a portion 76 of the base 16, which may be translucent or transparent, i.e. it permits light from an LED 78A-C or other illumination source positioned internally of the base 16 to emit light therethrough. The masking layer 74 blocks light from the LEDs 78A-C in the base 16. Various masking layers are possible, including, but not limited to, opaque paint, such as black or gray paint.

[0049] The status indicators 72A-C are icons etched in the masking layer 74. The etching extends down to the surface of the portion 76 of the base 16, so that light can pass through the etched icon from the associated LED 78A-C. The LEDs 78A-C can emit visible light in one or more colors, such as, but not limited to, white, blue, orange, red, green, yellow, and the like. The LEDs 78A-C can be configured to emit light in specific colors, wavelength ranges, and or patterns to convey information to the user. Alternatively or in addition, the LEDs 78A-C may be adjustable by the user to emit light in different wavelength ranges or colors. The LEDs 78A-C can be mounted on a PCB 80. The PCB 80 of the second user interface 14 and the electrical components populated on the PCB 80 may be referred to as a second user interface controller.

[0050] The status display 70 includes a light-transmitting layer 82 applied over the masking layer 74 to cover the etched icons. The light-transmitting layer 82 can be a second paint layer that is light-transmitting so that when one of the LEDs 78A-C is on, the associated icon is visible to the user. When the LED 78A-C associated with the icon is off, the icon is not visible to the user.

[0051] One or more additional layers can be applied on top of the light-transmitting layer 82. For example, a clear coating 84 of polyurethane or similar material can be applied to protect the status display from wear or damage. Also, while the masking and light-transmitting layers 74, 82 are discussed herein as being a single layer, multiple layers could also be used.

[0052] FIG. 4 shows an upright floor cleaner 110 with wet cleaning capabilities according to another aspect of the present disclosure. The floor cleaner 110 can include multiple cleaning systems, including a liquid delivery system and a recovery system. In some embodiments, the floor cleaner 110 also include a steam delivery system. The floor cleaner 110 may include a first UI 112 and a second UI 114 to accept user inputs for controlling the cleaning systems, function as a communication output device for the cleaning systems, and/or provide an improved user experience. The floor cleaner 110 can, for example, be a wet/dry vacuum cleaner or an extraction cleaner.

[0053] With both steam and liquid delivery systems, the floor cleaner 110 can selectively deliver liquid and/or steam to the surface to be cleaned. The first UI 112 can have appropriate input controls for user control of the systems, including dispensing liquid only or dispensing liquid and steam simultaneously to the surface to be cleaned. The second UI 114 can output status information to the user.

[0054] The floor cleaner 110 includes a cleaning head in the form of a base 116 adapted to move over a surface to be cleaned and a housing in the form of an upright body 118 coupled with the base 116 to direct the base 116 over the surface to be cleaned. The body 118 includes a handle 122 having a grip 124 and a trigger 126. The various cleaning systems and components thereof can be supported by either or both the base 116 and the upright body 118.

[0055] A moveable joint assembly 142 can connect the base 116 to the upright body 118 for movement of the upright body 118 about at least one axis. In the embodiment shown herein, the upright body 118 can pivot up and down about at least one axis relative to the base 116. The joint assembly 142 can alternatively comprise a universal joint, such that the upright body 118 can swivel about its longitudinal axis in addition to pivoting relative to the base 116. The upright body 118 can pivot, via the joint assembly 142, between an upright or storage position (not shown) and a reclined or use position, an example of which is shown in FIG. 4, in which the upright body 118 is pivoted rearwardly to form an acute angle with the surface to be cleaned. Wiring and/or conduits can optionally supply electricity, air, liquid and/or steam between the upright body 118 and the base 116, or vice versa, and can extend though the joint assembly 142. As such, in some embodiments, a portion of the cleaning systems can extend through the joint assembly 142.

[0056] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of various functional systems of the floor cleaner 110. The liquid delivery system includes a source of cleaning fluid 144, at least one liquid dispenser 146 supplied with liquid cleaning fluid from the source of cleaning fluid 144, and a liquid supply path 148 from the source of cleaning fluid to a liquid dispenser 146.

[0057] The fluid source 144 can stored cleaning fluid in liquid form. The cleaning fluid can comprise one or more of any suitable cleaning fluids, including, but not limited to, water, compositions, concentrated detergent, diluted detergent, etc., and mixtures thereof. For example, the cleaning fluid can comprise water. In another example, the cleaning fluid can comprise a mixture of water and concentrated detergent.

[0058] The liquid delivery system can include a flow controller for controlling the flow of fluid from the source 144 to the liquid dispenser 146. In one configuration, the flow controller can comprise a pump 150, which pressurizes the path 148 and controls the delivery of liquid cleaning fluid to the liquid dispenser 146. In one example, the pump 150 can be a centrifugal pump. In another example, the pump 150 can be a solenoid pump.

[0059] The release of cleaning liquid from the liquid dispenser 146 can be controlled by the trigger 126. The trigger 126 can operate a valve 149 in the path 148, where depressing the trigger 126 opens the valve 149 to release cleaning liquid to the dispenser 146. Release of the trigger 126 closes the valve 149 and stops liquid dispensing. As described in further detail below, in some embodiments, operation of the valve 149 upon depression of the trigger 126 can be mode-dependent. In other words, depending on a selected cleaning mode of the floor cleaner 110, depression of the trigger 126 may or may not open the liquid valve 149.

[0060] In another configuration of the fluid delivery system, the trigger 126 can operate the pump 150, where depressing the trigger 126 activates the pump 150 and releasing the trigger 126 turns the pump 150 off. In such a configuration, valve 149 may be integrated with the pump 150 or may be absent from the floor cleaner 110.

[0061] In another configuration of the fluid delivery system, the pump 150 can be eliminated and the flow controller can comprise a gravity-feed system having a valve fluidly coupled with an outlet of the source 144, whereby when the valve is open, fluid will flow under the force of gravity to the liquid dispenser 146.

[0062] The liquid dispenser 146 can comprise any structure, such as a nozzle, a spray tip, or a manifold, and can comprise at least one liquid outlet for dispensing liquid cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned. The dispenser 146 can be positioned to deliver liquid cleaning fluid directly to the surface to be cleaned, or indirectly by delivering liquid cleaning fluid onto an agitator (not shown). In one non-limiting example, the dispenser 146 delivers liquid cleaning fluid onto a brushroll. In another non-limiting example, the dispenser 146 delivers liquid cleaning fluid between two horizontally-rotating brushrolls.

[0063] The liquid delivery system can include other conduits, ducts, tubing, hoses, connectors, valves, etc. fluidly coupling the components of the liquid delivery system together and providing the liquid supply path 148.

[0064] The fluid source 144 can include at least one supply container for storing a supply of cleaning fluid. In yet another configuration, the fluid delivery system can have an additional supply container (not shown) for storing another cleaning fluid. For example the first supply container can store water and the second supply container can store a cleaning agent such as detergent. In embodiments where multiple supply containers are provided, the floor cleaner 110 can have with a mixing system for controlling the composition of the cleaning fluid that is delivered to the surface.

[0065] The steam delivery system includes a source of cleaning fluid, a heater 152 for heating the cleaning fluid, a steam dispenser 154 to dispense steam, and a steam supply path 156 from the source of cleaning fluid to the steam dispenser 154. The heater 152 preferably heats the cleaning fluid to around 100 ± 10 °C, alternately about 90 to 100 °C, alternatively about 95 to 98 °C. Some non-limiting examples of a suitable heater 152 include, but are not limited to, a flash heater, a boiler, an immersion heater, and a flow-through steam generator.

[0066] The steam delivery system can share the same fluid source 144 as the liquid delivery system. In another embodiment, the floor cleaner 110 can include a separate supply container (not shown) for storing a cleaning fluid for the steam delivery system. In embodiments where the fluid source 144 is shared, a manifold splitter 158 splits liquid between the steam supply path 156 and the liquid supply path 148.

[0067] The steam delivery system can include a flow controller to control the flow of fluid from the source 144 to the heater 152. In one configuration, the flow controller can comprise a pump 160 that pressurizes the path 156 and controls the delivery of heated fluid to the steam dispenser 154. In one example, the pump 160 can be a centrifugal pump. In another example, the pump 160 can be a solenoid pump.

[0068] The release of steam from the steam dispenser 154 can be controlled by the trigger 126. The trigger 126 can operate a valve 157 in the path 156, where depressing the trigger 126 opens the valve 157 to release steam to the steam dispenser 154. Release of the trigger 126 closes the valve 157 and stops steam dispensing. As described in further detail below, in some embodiments, operation of the valve 157 upon depression of the trigger 126 can be mode-dependent. In other words, depending on a selected cleaning mode of the floor cleaner 110, depression of the trigger 126 may or may not open the steam valve 157. For example, depending on the cleaning mode, operation of the trigger 126 may open the liquid valve 149 only, the steam valve 157 only, or both the valves 149, 157.

[0069] In yet another embodiment, a separate steam input control 159 selectively operates the steam valve 157 to control steam dispensing, while the trigger 126 selectively operates the liquid valve 149 to control liquid dispensing. A user may operate both controls 126, 159 at the same time for simultaneous liquid and steam dispensing.

[0070] In another configuration of the fluid delivery system, the trigger 126 can operate the pump 160, where depressing the trigger 126 activates the pump 160 and releasing the trigger 126 turns the pump 160 off. In such a configuration, valve 157 may be integrated with the pump 160 or may be absent from the floor cleaner 110.

[0071] The steam dispenser 154 can comprise any structure, such as a nozzle or a manifold, and can comprise at least one steam outlet for dispensing steam toward the surface to be cleaned. The dispenser 154 can be positioned to deliver steam directly to the surface to be cleaned, or indirectly by delivering steam onto an agitator or cleaning pad. In one non-limiting example, the steam dispenser 154 delivers steam onto the surface to be cleaned in front of the base 116.

[0072] The steam delivery system can include other conduits, ducts, tubing, hoses, connectors, valves, etc. fluidly coupling the components of the system together and providing the supply path 156 from the cleaning fluid source 144 to the steam dispenser 154.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the liquid provided to the liquid dispenser 146 does not pass through the heater 152 and/or is otherwise unheated, and is at the same temperature as the fluid source 144. In other embodiments, the liquid provided to the liquid dispenser 146 passes through a heater (not shown) or is otherwise heated to a temperature that is less than the temperature of the steam dispensed by the steam dispenser 154. Such a heater can be located downstream of the fluid source 144 and upstream of the pump 150. In yet another example, exhaust air from a motor-cooling pathway for a motor/fan assembly can be applied to the liquid supply path 148 to heat the liquid.

[0074] The recovery system can include a suction nozzle 162, a suction source including a vacuum motor 164 in fluid communication with the suction nozzle 162 for generating a working air stream through a recovery path 166, and a recovery container 168 for separating and collecting fluid and dirt from the working airstream for later disposal. A separator 170 can be formed in a portion of the recovery container 168 for separating fluid and entrained dirt from the working airstream.

[0075] The suction nozzle 162 can be provided on the cleaning head or base 116 adapted to move over the surface to be cleaned. The suction nozzle 162 can including a suction pathway having a nozzle inlet defining an inlet of the recovery path 166.

[0076] The floor cleaner 110 can include an agitator 172 to agitate the surface to be cleaned. In one non-limiting example, the agitator 172 is positioned within the suction nozzle 162, with the suction nozzle inlet positioned in close proximity to the agitator 172 to collect liquid and debris directly from the agitator 172. In another non-limiting example, the agitator 172 is positioned outside the suction nozzle 162, with the suction nozzle 162 disposed forwardly of the agitator 172 on the cleaning head. The former example may be suitable for a floor cleaner comprising a wet/dry vacuum cleaner, while the later example may be suitable for a floor cleaner comprising an extraction cleaner.

[0077] Some examples of agitators 172 include, but are not limited to, a horizontally-rotating brushroll, dual horizontally-rotating brushrolls, one or more vertically-rotating brushrolls, a stationary brush, or a cleaning pad. In one non-limiting example, the agitator 172 is a single horizontally-rotating brushroll, the liquid dispenser 146 delivers liquid cleaning fluid onto the brushroll, and the suction nozzle 162 substantially surrounds the brushroll. In another non-limiting example, the agitator 172 is two horizontally-rotating brushrolls, the liquid dispenser 146 delivers liquid cleaning fluid between two horizontally-rotating brushrolls, and the suction nozzle 162 is disposed forwardly of the brushrolls and liquid dispenser 146.

[0078] In the case of a moving agitator 172, a drive assembly including an agitator motor 174 can drive the agitator 172. A drive transmission (not shown) operably connects the motor 174 with the agitator 172 for transmitting rotational motion of the motor 174 to the agitator 172.

[0079] The floor cleaner 110 can also be provided with above-the-floor cleaning features (not shown), including, but not limited to, an accessory hose and an above-the floor cleaning tool with its own suction inlet and/or fluid dispenser.

[0080] Electrical components of the cleaner 10, including the heater 152, pumps 150, 160, vacuum motor 164, and agitator motor 174, are electrically coupled to a power source 176, which can comprise a power cord plugged into a household electrical outlet or a battery for cordless operation. The first UI 112 can have appropriate input controls for user control of one or more of the heater 152, pumps 150, 160, vacuum motor 164, and agitator motor 174, thereby controlling the cleaning systems of the floor cleaner 110. For example, cleaning modes can have associated operating parameters for the heater 152, pumps 150, 160, vacuum motor 164, and/or agitator motor 174, such that user selection of a cleaning mode will operate those components according to the associated operating parameters. The second UI 114 can output status information regarding the selected cleaning modes to the user.

[0081] FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing one configuration of the UIs 112, 114 for the floor cleaner 110, along with the handle 122 and base 116. In this embodiment, the floor cleaner 110 is a wet/dry vacuum cleaner having a hard floor mode, an area rug mode, and a steam mode. The steam mode can operate in conjunction with the hard floor mode or the area rug mode.

[0082] The first UI 112 has an on/off button, e.g. a power button 178, to activate and de-active the vacuum motor 164 (FIG. 5). By default, pressing the power button 178 to activate the vacuum motor 164 can operate the floor cleaner 110 in the hard floor mode. Pressing the power button 178 may also turn the heater 152 on. In other embodiments, the default cleaning mode can be the area rug mode or the last mode selected. Other default operating modes for the floor cleaner 110 are possible, including a default mode in which pressing the power button 178 activates an electronic component of the floor cleaner 110 other than the vacuum motor 164.

[0083] The first UI 112 has a mode select input control or mode button 180 to select between different modes when the floor cleaner 110 is on. Example modes include a hard floor mode and an area rug mode. The mode button 180 can operate a toggle switch that cycles through the cleaning modes. For example, repeated pressing of the mode button 180 can cycle between the hard floor and area rug modes.

[0084] Referring back to FIG. 6, the first UI 112 has a steam button 184 to select the steam mode. The steam button 184 can operate a toggle switch that cycles the steam mode on and off. The steam mode can have associated operating parameters for the heater 152, pumps 150, 160, vacuum motor 164, and/or agitator motor 174 (FIG. 5). In one example, in the steam mode, the pump 160 is activated. Therefore, pressing the steam button 184 activates and de-actives the pump 160. Optionally, there is a warm-up period after turning the heater 152 on via the power button 178 during which steam is not available to be dispensed.

[0085] As noted above, the steam mode can be structured to operate in conjunction with the hard floor mode, area rug mode, or another cleaning mode. For example, pressing the steam button 184 to select a steam mode may include maintaining operation of the currently-selected hard floor or area rug mode. In another embodiment, pressing the steam button 184 to select the steam mode may deactivate the currently-selected mode.

[0086] With reference to FIG. 5, the cleaning modes can have associated operating parameters for the heater 152, pumps 150, 160, vacuum motor 164, and/or agitator motor 174. In one example of the hard floor mode, the vacuum motor 164, liquid pump 150, and brush motor 174 are activated, with the vacuum motor 164 operating at a first power level. In one example of the area rug mode, the vacuum motor 164, liquid pump 150, and brush motor 174 are activated, with the vacuum motor 164 operating at a second power level, which is higher than the first power level. In another example, the flow rate of liquid in the hard floor mode is higher than in the area rug mode. In one example of the steam mode, the vacuum motor 164, liquid pump 150, heater 152, steam pump 160, and brush motor 174 are activated, with the vacuum motor 164 operating at a power level of the selected hard floor or area rug mode.

[0087] As noted above, in all cleaning modes, the release of cleaning fluid (e.g., cleaning liquid and/or steam based on the selected mode) can be controlled by the trigger 126. Alternatively, release of cleaning liquid can be controlled by the trigger 126 and release of steam can be controlled by the steam input control 159.

[0088] Table 1 below lists some non-limiting examples of operating parameters for the cleaning modes, including whether liquid and/or steam is dispensed, and whether the brush motor is on or off. Other operating parameters for the cleaning modes and other cleaning modes are possible.

TABLE 1

Cleaning Mode	Liquid Dispensing	Steam Dispensing	Vacuum Motor	Brush Motor
Hard Floor	ON	OFF	LOW	ON
Area Rug	ON	OFF	HIGH	ON
Steam	ON	ON	LOW/HIGH	ON

[0089] The first UI 112 has a clean-out cycle button 186 to activate and de-activate a self-cleaning mode of the floor cleaner 110 in which the floor cleaner 110 executes an automatic, unattended clean-out cycle. During the clean-out cycle, cleaning liquid is sprayed on the agitator 172 (FIG. 5) while the agitator 172 rotates. Liquid is extracted and deposited into the recovery container 168, thereby also flushing out the suction nozzle 162 and the recovery path 166. One non-limiting example of an automatic, unattended clean-out cycle is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,160,431, issued November 2, 2021,. Other clean-out cycles are possible. In another embodiment, the clean-out cycle button 186 can be provided elsewhere on the floor cleaner 110, such as on a carry handle 125 (FIG. 4) of the floor cleaner 110.

[0090] The power button 178, mode button 180, and steam button 184 can have icons 190, 192, 194, respectively, that are pad-printed or are otherwise visible at all times to the user. The clean-out cycle button 186 can have a contextual or context-based icon 196 that is displayed when a clean-out cycle is needed and/or when a clean-out cycle is ready to be executed.

[0091] During operation, the user can select the mode button 180 and/or steam button 184 to toggle through multiple cleaning modes. With the arrangement of the UI 112 on the handle 122 the user can conveniently hold the handle grip 124 in one hand and use the thumb of the same hand to toggle the mode button 180 and/or steam button 184 until the desired mode is selected. The selected cleaning mode is displayed on the base 116 by the second UI 114.

[0092] The second UI 114 includes a hidden status display 198 on the base 116 with a plurality of status indicators. The individual status indicators can each include at least one icon in the form of graphics, symbols, words, or a combination thereof. In FIG. 6, for example, the second UI 114 is shown with three status indicators, including a hard floor mode status indicator comprising an icon 200 in the form of a graphic depicting a hard floor, an area rug status indicator comprising an icon 204 in the form of a graphic icon depicting a rug, and a steam status indicator comprising an icon 202 in the form of a graphic icon depicting steam. The icons are each backlit by an illumination element (see, e.g. LED 78 in FIG. 3). The different shapes of the icons 200-204 provide a visual signal to the user that different modes are in operation. To provide a further visual distinction, the icons 200-204 may illuminate in different colors. For example, the hard floor and area rug icons 200, 202 can illuminate in a first color (e.g., blue), and the steam icon 204 can illuminate in a second color (e.g., orange).

[0093] When the floor cleaner 110 is off, the status display 198 is blank and the icons 200-204 are hidden or dead, e.g. not illuminated. When the floor cleaner 110 is on, the icons 200-204 may selectively be illuminated and visible to the user. For example, the hard floor icon 200 can be hidden or dead, e.g. not illuminated when the floor cleaner 110 is not operating in the hard floor mode, and can be illuminated and visible when the hard floor mode is selected, e.g. using mode button 180. The area rug icon 202 can be hidden or dead, e.g. not illuminated when the floor cleaner 110 is not operating in the area rug mode, and can be illuminated and visible when the area rug mode is selected, e.g. using mode button 180. The steam icon 204 can be hidden or dead, e.g. not illuminated when the floor cleaner 110 is not operating in the steam mode, and can be illuminated and visible when the steam mode is selected, e.g. using steam button 184. The status display 198 therefore shows the selected cleaning mode on the base 116, within the user's field of view where the user naturally looks while cleaning a surface.

[0094] FIG. 6 shows but one configuration for the UIs 112, 114. It is understood that other layouts, buttons, status indicators, and/or icons are possible, including having the same buttons in a different layout, or having additional or fewer buttons, status indicators, and/or icons. For example, for a floor cleaner without a steam delivery system, the first UI 112 may not include the steam button 184 and the second UI 114 may not include the steam status icon 202. Other possible UI buttons, status indicators, and/or icons include, but are not limited to, other cleaning modes, battery status, Wi-Fi connection status, an empty supply container status, a full recovery container status, filter status, floor type, or any number of other status information.

[0095] The floor cleaner 110 can include an additional light on the base 116 to visually convey a status, alert, or error by emitting visible light in different colors and/or light animations. The additional light can duplicate information conveyed by the first and/or second UI 112, 114 or show different information to the user. In FIG. 6, the floor cleaner 110 has a headlight 206 on the base 116 that is capable of being illuminated in multiple different colors.

[0096] The headlight 206 can be structured so that the headlight 206 is not illuminated when the floor cleaner 110 is off and the headlight 206 is illuminated when the floor cleaner 110 is on. For example, the headlight 206 is illuminated in a first color when the floor cleaner 110 is on and a dispensing control is not actuated, and the headlight 206 is illuminated in a second color when the floor cleaner 110 is on and the dispensing control is actuated to dispense cleaning fluid. The dispensing control may be, for example, the trigger 126 (FIG. 5) that controls dispensing from the liquid dispenser 146 and/or steam dispenser 154, or the steam input control 159 that controls the dispensing of steam from the steam dispenser 154.

[0097] In another example, the headlight 206 is illuminated in a first color when the floor cleaner 110 is on and the steam mode is not selected, and the headlight 206 is illuminated in a second color when the floor cleaner 110 is on and the steam mode is selected.

[0098] The headlight 206 can be disposed on an upper side of the base 116, making the emitted visible light easy to see from the typical operating position of the user behind and above the base 116. Various locations for the headlight 206 on the base 116 are possible. In one embodiment, the headlight 206 can be located behind a cover 208, which can define the suction nozzle 162 and/or a chamber for the agitator 172 (FIG. 5). The cover 208 can be formed at least partially from a transparent, semi-transparent, or translucent material, and may, for example, allow a user to view visible light emitted from the headlight 206 from the typical operating position of the user behind and above the base 16. The emitted visible light passing through the cover 208 may be refracted or diffused such that a portion of the cover 208 appears to glow.

[0099] The headlight 206 can include at least one light source comprising at least one light emitting element, such as, but not limited to, a light emitting diode (LED), an organic LED (OLED), a chip-on-board LED, a laser or laser diode, a regular lamp (arc lamp, gas discharge lamp, etc.), bulbs, or other light emitting device. The headlight 206 can comprise multiple light emitting elements, such as multiple LEDs. For an LED light source, an RGB LED may be preferred in order to produce lights in varying colors to indicate different statuses, errors, and/or alerts for the floor cleaner 110.

[0100] The floor cleaner 110 can have other lighting in addition to or as an alternative to the headlight 206. Other lighting includes, but is not limited to, a UI edge light or a base edge light, examples of which are given below.

[0101] FIGS.7-14 show the base 116 of the floor cleaner 110 in various operational states and/or operating modes. In FIG. 7, the floor cleaner 110 is off, and accordingly the status display 198 of the second UI 114 is hidden.

[0102] In FIG. 8, the floor cleaner 110 is powered on and in a default operational state. The default operational state may be the hard floor mode, and therefore the hard floor icon 200 illuminated and visible.

[0103] In FIG. 9, the floor cleaner 110 is in the area rug mode, and therefore the area rug icon 202 is illuminated and visible.

[0104] In FIG. 10, the floor cleaner 110 is in the hard floor mode and a steam warm-up state of the steam mode, and therefore the hard floor icon 200 and the steam icon 204 are illuminated and visible. The floor cleaner 110 may be in the steam warm-up state for a predetermined period of time after powering the floor cleaner 110 on, during which the heater 152 is turned on and is warming up. One non-limiting warm-up period is 30 seconds. As indicated by illumination lines in FIG. 10, during steam warm-up the steam icon 204 can emit light in an animated state, e.g. with a change pattern and/or changing characteristics over time. Various animations are contemplated, including, but not limited to, a flashing animation. In a flashing animation, light intensity generally varies in a square wave fashion or in some other non-sinusoidal manner. In some examples, depending on the manner of use of the floor cleaner 110, the steam icon 204 may or may not exhibit the warm-up state status when the steam mode is selected. For example, in some cases the user may activate the steam mode after the heater 152 has already heated up and reached its predetermined operating set-point, such as after using the floor cleaner 110 in a cleaning mode that does not utilize steam for a predetermined period of time. While the user is using the floor cleaner 110 in the cleaning mode without steam, the heater 152 may be heating up such that when the user switches to a cleaning mode with steam, the floor cleaner 110 is essentially ready to instantaneously dispense steam on demand and thus the steam icon 204 is illuminated in visible. In another example, the user may wish to utilize a cleaning mode with steam right away upon powering on the floor cleaner 110. In this scenario, the steam icon 204 can emit light in an animated state while the heater 152 heats up, indicating to the user that steam is not yet ready for dispensing, once the heater 152 has heated up to the set-point suitable for generating steam for use in a steam cleaning mode, the steam icon 204 can be illuminated in a steady state to indicate to the user that steam is now ready for dispensing on demand during cleaning.

[0105] In FIG. 11, the floor cleaner 110 is in the hard floor mode and steam ready state of the steam mode, and therefore the hard floor icon 200 and the steam icon 204 are illuminated and visible. The floor cleaner 110 may enter the steam ready state after the warm-up period. When steam is ready, the steam icon 204 can illuminate in a steady state, e.g., with generally continuous, unchanging characteristics over a period of time. The change between animation of the steam icon 204 and steady-state illumination of the steam icon 204 indicates to the user that steam is ready for dispensing during cleaning.

[0106] While FIG. 10-11 show the floor cleaner 110 in the hard floor mode and the steam mode, the floor cleaner 110 is also operable in the area rug mode and the steam mode. In this case, the status display 198 shows the area rug icon 202 and the steam icon 204.

[0107] FIG. 12-13 show the floor cleaner 110 in various dispensing states, where the headlight 206 functions as the status indicator for dispensing. As noted above, the headlight 206 is structured so that the headlight 206 is not illuminated when the floor cleaner 110 is off (FIG. 7) and the headlight 206 is illuminated when the floor cleaner 110 is on (FIG. 8-14). When the floor cleaner 110 is on and not dispensing (FIG. 8-11), the headlight 206 is illuminated in a first color (e.g., white) as indicated at 210. When the trigger 126 is depressed, the headlight 206 changes to another color (FIG. 12-13) to indicate the dispensing state to the user. Referring to FIG. 12, in the hard floor or area rug mode, actuation of the trigger 126 to dispense cleaning liquid illuminates the headlight 206 in a second color (e.g., blue) as indicated as 212. Referring to FIG. 13, in the steam mode, actuation of the trigger 126 to dispense steam illuminates the headlight 206 in the second color (e.g., blue) as indicated at 212. Release of the trigger 126 in any mode can automatically change the headlight 206 back to the first color, indicating to a user that cleaning fluid is no longer being dispensed. During dispensing, icons on the status display 198 corresponding to the operational mode can remain illuminated and visible.

[0108] For steam dispensing, the headlight 206 can emit light in an animated state, e.g. with a change pattern and/or changing characteristics over time. Various animations are contemplated, including, but not limited to, a pulsing or breathing animation. In a breathing animation, light intensity increases and decreases in a generally sinusoidal manner. That is, the visible light gradually gets brighter until it reaches a peak and then gradually gets dimmer until it reaches a nadir (which may include the light completely shut off), and then this cycle repeats.

[0109] FIG. 14 shows an alternative configuration for the steam dispensing state of the floor cleaner 110. In FIG. 14, the floor cleaner 110 is in the hard floor mode and steam dispensing state, and therefore the hard floor icon 200 and the steam icon 204 are illuminated and visible. Actuation of the trigger 126 to dispense steam illuminates the headlight 206 in a third color (e.g., orange) as indicated at 214, where the third color is different from the first or second color. The headlight 206 can illuminate in a steady state or in an animated state. Release of the trigger 126 can automatically change the headlight 206 back to the first color, indicating to a user that cleaning fluid is no longer being dispensed.

[0110] It will be understood that coordinating the operation of the headlight 206 with dispensing of liquid and/or steam is optional and that aspects of the first and second UIs described herein can be utilized independently of the headlight 206.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 15-16, in one aspect of the disclosure, operation of the clean-out cycle may require that the floor cleaner 110 be docked on a tray 188 and/or another condition for self-cleaning be met. When not docked and/or when another condition for self-cleaning is not met, the clean-out cycle may be inoperable, and selection of the clean-out cycle button 186 will not activate the self-cleaning mode.

[0112] The contextual icon 196 is displayed when a clean-out cycle is needed and/or when a clean-out cycle is ready to be executed. In one embodiment, the icon 196 can be hidden or dead, e.g. not illuminated, when a condition is not met, and can illuminate when a condition is met. For example, the icon 196 can be visible under certain conditions, including, but not limited to: (i) the floor cleaner 110 being docked on the tray 188 (e.g., FIG. 16); (ii) sufficient cleaning fluid to run a clean-out cycle is available in the supply container; (iii) sufficient space to collect cleaning fluid from a clean-out cycle is available in the recovery container; or any combination thereof. The icon 196 is hidden under other conditions, including, but not limited to: (iv) the floor cleaner 110 is not docked (e.g., FIG. 15); (v) insufficient cleaning fluid to run a clean-out cycle is available in the supply container; (vi) insufficient space to collect cleaning fluid from a clean-out cycle is available in the recovery container; or any combination thereof.

[0113] In one embodiment, when the floor cleaner 110 is docked on the tray 188, e.g. for recharging in the case of a cordless, battery-powered cleaner and/or after a cleaning session, the clean-out cycle icon 196 illuminates, indicating to the user that the floor cleaner 110 is in a ready-to-self-clean state. The icon 196 can illuminate in a steady state, e.g., with generally continuous, unchanging characteristics over a period of time, or illuminate in an animated state, e.g. with a change pattern and/or changing characteristics over time. Various animations are contemplated, including, but not limited to, a sunrise animation in which light intensity increases at a generally steady rate, e.g. the icon 196 gradually gets brighter until it reaches a peak illumination. After the clean-out cycle button 186 is pressed, icon 196 can switch from an animated state to a steady state, or may de-illuminate, indicating to a user that self-cleaning has been successfully initiated. In embodiments where the icon 196 remains illuminated during self-cleaning, the icon 196 can remain illuminated until the cycle is done and then may de-illuminate.

[0114] It is noted that the tray 188 can physically support the entire floor cleaner 110. More specifically, the base 116 can be seated in the tray 188. The tray 188 can further be configured for further functionality beyond self-cleaning and storage, such as for charging the floor cleaner 110 in the case of a battery-powered or cordless cleaner. In such cases, the tray 188 may also be referred to as a docking station.

[0115] FIG. 17 is a schematic view showing another configuration for the UIs 112, 114 for the floor cleaner 110. In this embodiment, the floor cleaner 110 does not have a steam delivery system and the power source 176 (FIG. 5) is a battery. The first UI 112 has the power button 178, mode button 180, and clean-out cycle button 186 as described with respect to FIG. 6, though arranged in a different layout. Additionally, the UI 112 has a Wi-Fi status indicator 216 that informs the user of a Wi-Fi connection status of the floor cleaner 110. The Wi-Fi status indicator 216 can include a back-lit icon that is hidden when the floor cleaner 110 is not connected to Wi-Fi and visible when the floor cleaner 110 is connected to Wi-Fi.

[0116] The second UI 114 includes a battery level indicator 218. In one embodiment, the battery level indicator 218 can include a graphic icon 220 depicting a battery and a series of lights 222 (e.g., LEDs) inside the graphic icon 220 that progressively illuminate to show a level of charge of battery. In an alternate example, the battery level indicator 218 can include a number on the status display 198 that changes to indicate a level of charge of the battery.

[0117] FIG. 18 is a schematic view showing yet another configuration for the UIs 112, 114 for the floor cleaner 110. In this embodiment, the first UI 112 has status indicators to indicate the mode selected via the mode button 180, including a hard floor mode status indicator including an icon 224 in the form of a graphic depicting a hard floor and an area rug status indicator including an icon 226 in the form of a graphic icon depicting a rug. The icons 224, 226 are each backlit by an illumination element (e.g. an LED). When the floor cleaner 110 is off, the icons 224, 226 are hidden or dead, e.g. not illuminated. When the floor cleaner 110 is on, one of the icons 224, 226 is illuminated and visible to the user. The first and second UIs 112, 114 therefore both show the selected cleaning mode. Duplication of the status indicators on both interfaces 112, 114 provides mode information to the user at multiple locations within their field of view, whether they are looking directly at the handle 122 or downwardly toward the surface to be cleaned.

[0118] In additional to the icon 194, the steam button 184 has a status indicator 228 to indicate when the steam mode is "on" or active. The status indicator 228 can comprise a backlit bar or other symbol adjacent to the steam button 184. The first and second UIs 112, 114 therefore both show whether the floor cleaner 110 is operating in the steam mode.

[0119] FIG. 19 is a schematic view showing still another configuration for the UIs 112, 114 for the floor cleaner 110. In this embodiment, the floor cleaner 110 is an extraction cleaner having a liquid cleaning mode, a liquid/steam cleaning mode, and a steam boost cleaning mode.

[0120] The first UI 112 has an on/off button, e.g. a power button 230, to activate and de-active the vacuum motor 164 and the heater 152 (FIG. 5). By default, pressing the power button 230 can operate the floor cleaner 110 in the liquid/steam cleaning mode. In another embodiment, the default-cleaning mode can be the liquid cleaning mode or the steam boost cleaning mode, or the last mode selected. Other default operating modes for the floor cleaner 110 are possible, including a default mode in which pressing the power button 230 activates an electronic component of the floor cleaner 110 other than the vacuum motor 164 and/or the heater 152.

[0121] The first UI 112 has multiple mode select input controls or mode buttons, including a liquid cleaning mode button 232 to select the liquid cleaning mode, a liquid/steam cleaning mode button 234 to select the liquid/steam cleaning mode, and a steam boost cleaning mode button 326 to select the steam boost cleaning mode, respectively. In operation, a user can select one of the mode buttons 232-236, and the selected mode is displayed on the base 116 by the second UI 114.

[0122] With reference to FIG. 5, the cleaning modes can have associated operating parameters for the heater 152, pumps 150, 160, vacuum motor 164, and/or agitator motor 174. In one example of the liquid/steam cleaning mode, the vacuum motor 164, liquid pump 150, heater 152, steam pump 160, and brush motor 174 are activated, with the liquid pump 150 operating at a first flow rate. In one example of the liquid cleaning mode, the vacuum motor 164, liquid pump 150, and brush motor 174 are activated, with the with the liquid pump 150 operating at a second flow rate, which is less than the first flow rate for an express cleaning operation where the surface to be cleaned may dry faster. In one example of the steam boost cleaning mode, the heater 152 and steam pump 160 are activated. As noted above, in all cleaning modes, the release of cleaning fluid can be controlled by the trigger 126. Alternatively, release of cleaning liquid can be controlled by the trigger 126 and release of steam can be controlled by the steam input control 159.

[0123] Table 2 below lists some non-limiting examples of operating parameters for the cleaning modes, including pump flow rates for liquid and steam dispensing, and whether the vacuum motor 164 and brush motor 174 are on or off. Other operating parameters for the cleaning modes and other cleaning modes are possible.

TABLE 2

Cleaning Mode	Liquid Dispensing	Steam Dispensing	Vacuum and Brush Motors
Liquid/Steam	HIGH	ON	ON
Liquid	LOW	OFF	ON
Steam Boost	OFF	ON	OFF

[0124] The power button 230 and mode buttons 232, 234, 236 can have icons 238, 240, 242, 244 respectively, formed by pad printing, attaching a label, adhering a graphic, or the like, and are visible at all times to the user. In another embodiment, the mode icons 238, 240, 242 can be back-lit so that only the mode currently selected is illuminated and visible to the user. In yet another embodiment, the mode buttons 232, 234, 236 can each have an associated status indicator to indicate when the associated mode is "on" or active, similar to status indicator 228 (FIG. 18).

[0125] During operation, the user can select one of the mode buttons 232, 234, 236 to change between cleaning modes. With the arrangement of the UI 112 on the handle 122, the user can conveniently hold the handle grip 124 in one hand and use the thumb of the same hand to select a desired mode. The selected cleaning mode is displayed on the base 116 by the second UI 114.

[0126] The second UI 114 includes a hidden status display 246 on the base 116 with a plurality of status indicators. The individual status indicators can each include at least one icon in the form of graphics, symbols, words, or a combination thereof. In FIG. 19, for example, the second UI 114 is shown with three status indicators, including a liquid cleaning status indicator comprising an icon 248 in the form of a graphic depicting a drop of liquid, a liquid/steam cleaning indicator comprising an icon 250 in the form of a graphic icon depicting a drop of liquid and steam, and a steam boost cleaning indicator comprising an icon 252 in the form of a graphic icon depicting steam. The icons 248-250 are each backlit by an illumination element (see, e.g. LED 78 in FIG. 3). The different shapes of the icons 248-252 provide visual signal to the user that different modes are in operation. To provide a further visual distinction, the icons 248-252 may illuminate in different colors. For example, the liquid cleaning icon 248 can illuminate in a first color (e.g., blue), and the liquid/steam cleaning icon 520 and steam boost icon 252 can illuminate in a second color (e.g., orange).

[0127] When the floor cleaner 110 is off, the status display 246 is blank and the icons 248-250 are hidden or dead, e.g. not illuminated. When the floor cleaner 110 is on, the icons 248-250 may selectively be illuminated and visible to the user. The status display 246 therefore shows the selected cleaning mode on the base 116, within the user's field of view where the user naturally looks while cleaning a surface.

[0128] FIG. 19 shows but one configuration for the UIs 112, 114 for an extraction cleaner. It is understood that other buttons, status indicators, and/or icons are possible, including having additional or fewer buttons, status indicators, and/or icons. For example, for an extraction cleaner without a steam delivery system, the first UI 112 may not include any steam mode buttons, and the second UI 114 may not include any steam status indicators. Other possible UI buttons, status indicators, and/or icons include, but are not limited to, other cleaning modes, battery status, Wi-Fi connection status, an empty supply container status, a full recovery container status, filter status, floor type, or any number of other status information.

[0129] FIGS. 20-22 show the base 116 of the floor cleaner 110 in various operational states and/or operating modes. When the floor cleaner 110 is off (not shown), the status display 198 of the second UI 114 is hidden or blank. In FIG. 20, the floor cleaner 110 is powered on and in a default operational state. The default operational state may be the liquid/steam cleaning mode and therefore the liquid/steam cleaning icon 250 is illuminated and visible. In FIG. 21, the floor cleaner 110 is in the liquid cleaning mode and therefore the liquid cleaning icon 248 is illuminated and visible. In FIG. 22, the floor cleaner 110 is in the steam boost mode and therefore the steam boost icon 252 is illuminated and visible. The icons 248-252 can emit light in a steady state, an animated state, or a combination of steady and animate states. For example, in either steam dispensing mode, the icons 250, 252 may be animated during a steam warm-up state and may change to a steady state during a steam ready state.

[0130] FIG. 23 is a schematic view showing still another embodiment of the floor cleaner 110. In this embodiment, the floor cleaner 110 is an extraction cleaner and is substantially similar to the extraction cleaner described for FIG. 19. The floor cleaner 110 can include at least one additional light 254, 256, 258 on the base 116 to visually convey a status, alert, or error by emitting visible light in different colors and/or light animations. The additional light can duplicate information conveyed by the first and/or second UI 112, 114.

[0131] The light 254, 256, 258 can include at least one light source comprising at least one light emitting element, such as, but not limited to, a light emitting diode (LED), an organic LED (OLED), a chip-on-board LED, a laser or laser diode, a regular lamp (arc lamp, gas discharge lamp, etc.), bulbs, or other light emitting device. The light 254, 256, 258 can comprise multiple light emitting elements, such as multiple LEDs. For an LED light source, an RGB LED may be preferred in order to produce lights in varying colors to indicate different statuses, errors, and/or alerts for the floor cleaner 110.

[0132] Examples of the additional light is a UI edge light 254, a headlight 256, or a base edge light 258, or any combination thereof. The UI edge light 254 can wrap at least partially around the second UI 114. For example, the edge light 254 can wrap at least partially around a front side of the second UI 114, a right side of the second UI 114, a left side of the second UI 114, or any combination thereof. The headlight 256 may be similar to the headlight 206 of FIG. 6, and can be disposed on an upper side of the base 116 and located behind cover 208, and forward of the second UI 114. The base edge light 258 can wrap at least partially around the base 116, including a front side of the base 116, a right side of the base 116, a left side of the base 116, a rear side of the base 116, or any combination thereof.

[0133] In some embodiments, the light 254, 256, 258 is capable of being illuminated in multiple different colors. The light 254, 256, 258 is structured so that the light 254, 256, 258 is not illuminated when the floor cleaner 110 is off and the light 254, 256, 258 is illuminated when the floor cleaner 110 is on. Further, the light 254, 256, 258 can visually convey a status, alert, or error by emitting visible light in different colors.

[0134] For example, the light 254, 256, 258 is illuminated in a first color when the floor cleaner 110 is on and a dispensing control is not actuated, and the light 254, 256, 258 is illuminated in a second color when the floor cleaner 110 is on and the dispensing control is actuated to dispense cleaning fluid. The dispensing control may be, for example, the trigger 126 (FIG. 5) that controls dispensing from the liquid dispenser 146 and/or steam dispenser 154, or the steam input control 159 that controls the dispensing of steam from the steam dispenser 154.

[0135] In another example, the light 254, 256, 258 is off or is illuminated in a first color when the floor cleaner 110 is upright, and the light 254, 256, 258 is on or is illuminated in a second color when the floor cleaner 110 reclined to a use position (see, e.g., FIG. 1 and FIG. 4).

[0136] Referring to FIG. 24, in another embodiment the surface cleaning apparatus can be a canister floor cleaner 300 that includes a cleaning head 302 and a remotely disposed canister 304 mechanically and fluid interconnected by a flexible hose 306 and a wand 308 to direct the cleaning head 302 over the surface to be cleaned. In one example, the canister floor cleaner 300 can be a vacuum cleaner including at least a vacuum collection system for creating a partial vacuum to suck up dirt from a floor surface and collect the removed dirt in a space provided on the vacuum cleaner for later disposal. In another example, the canister floor cleaner 300 can be a wet/dry vacuum cleaner or an extraction cleaner.

[0137] The wand 308 can include a first UI312 and the cleaning head 302 can include a second UI 314, where the UIs 312, 314 can comprise any of the features and/or structures of the various embodiments of user interfaces described herein. The second UI 314 may be on a portion of the cleaning head 302 that is within a user's field of view when holding the wand 308 in a use position.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 25, in another embodiment the surface cleaning apparatus can be a portable extraction cleaner 400 that includes a tool 402 and a remotely disposed housing 404 mechanically and fluid interconnected by a flexible hose 406 and a wand 408 that a user holds to direct the tool 402 over the surface to be cleaned. The housing 404 comprises a fluid delivery system including a supply container 416 and a recovery system including a recovery container 418. The hose 406 includes a fluid delivery conduit 422 in fluid communication with the supply container 416 and an airflow conduit 424 in fluid communication with the recovery container 418.

[0139] The housing 404 can include a first UI 412 and the tool 402 can include a second UI 414, where the UIs 412, 414 can comprise any of the features and/or structures of the various embodiments of user interfaces described herein. The second UI 414 may be on a portion of the tool 402 that is within a user's field of view when a user 420 is holding the wand 408 to clean with the tool 402. In another embodiment, the wand 408 can include the second UI 414.

[0140] FIG. 26 is a schematic view showing another configuration for the UIs 112, 114 of the floor cleaner 110. In this embodiment, the first UI 112 has the power button 178, mode button 180, and clean-out cycle button 186, and the second UI 114 includes the icons 200-204 as described with respect to FIG. 6, though arranged in a different layout.

[0141] For the first UI 112, a separate steam button is not provided, and instead the mode button 180 cycles through all cleaning modes, including any steam cleaning modes. As but one example, the mode button 180 can cycle through the steam mode, the hard floor mode, and the area rug mode. The clean-out cycle button 186 is provided on the carry handle 125.

[0142] FIG. 27 is a schematic view showing yet another configuration for the UIs 112, 114 for the floor cleaner 110. In this embodiment, the floor cleaner 110 is an extraction cleaner and is substantially similar to the extraction cleaner described for FIG. 19. In this embodiment, the second UI 114 includes the icons 248-252 as described with respect to FIG. 19, though arranged in a different layout.

[0143] The first UI 114 incudes the power button 230 and a single mode button 270 that cycles through the cleaning modes. For example, repeated pressing of the mode button 270 can cycle through the liquid cleaning mode, the liquid/steam cleaning mode, and the steam boost cleaning mode. The mode button 270 can have an icon 272 formed by pad printing, attaching a label, adhering a graphic, or the like, and may be visible at all times to the user. In another embodiment, the mode icon 272 can be back-lit.

[0144] During operation, the user press the mode button 270 to change the cleaning mode. The selected cleaning mode is displayed on the base 116 by the second UI 114.

[0145] To the extent not already described, the different features and structures of the various embodiments of the invention, may be used in combination with each other as desired, or may be used separately. That one surface cleaning apparatus is illustrated herein as having all of these features does not mean that all of these features must be used in combination, but rather done so here for brevity of description. Thus, the various features of the different embodiments may be mixed and matched in various vacuum cleaner configurations as desired to form new embodiments, whether or not the new embodiments are expressly described.

[0146] The terms "comprising" or "comprise" are used herein in their broadest sense to mean and encompass the notions of "including," "include," "consist(ing) essentially of," and "consist(ing) of. The use of "for example," "e.g.," "such as," and "including" to list illustrative examples does not limit to only the listed examples. Thus, "for example" or "such as" means "for example, but not limited to" or "such as, but not limited to" and encompasses other similar or equivalent examples.

[0147] Representative features are set out in the following clauses, which stand alone or may be combined, in any combination, with one or more features disclosed in the text and/or drawings of the specification.

[0148] A surface cleaning apparatus, comprising a cleaning head adapted to move over a surface to be cleaned, a housing coupled with the cleaning head, a cleaning fluid delivery system, a dispensing input control to dispense cleaning fluid, a first user interface on the housing, the first user interface comprising a mode select input control to select one of a plurality of modes of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus, a second user interface on the cleaning head, the second user interface comprising a status display having a plurality of status indicators representing the plurality of modes of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus, and a light on the cleaning head and capable of being illuminated in a plurality of different colors, wherein the light is structured so that the light is not illuminated when the surface cleaning apparatus is off, the light is illuminated in a first color when the surface cleaning apparatus is on and the cleaning fluid dispensing input control is not actuated, and the light is illuminated in a second color when the surface cleaning apparatus is on and the cleaning fluid dispensing input control is actuated to dispense cleaning fluid.

[0149] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the dispensing input control is an input control to dispense cleaning fluid comprising liquid, steam, or liquid and steam.

[0150] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the dispensing input control is a trigger.

[0151] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the light illuminated in a third color when the surface cleaning apparatus is on and the dispensing input control is actuated to dispense steam.

[0152] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the second user interface illuminates in the second color when the light illuminates in the second color.

[0153] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the housing comprises an upright body comprising a handle having a grip and the cleaning head comprises a base adapted to move over the surface to be cleaned, wherein the upright body is coupled with the base to direct the base over the surface to be cleaned.

[0154] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the first user interface is on the handle.

[0155] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the first user interface is on the grip.

[0156] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the housing comprises a fluid delivery system including a supply container and a recovery system including a recovery container, and the cleaning head comprises a tool in fluid communication with the supply container and in fluid communication with the recovery container.

[0157] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, comprising a hose interconnecting the tool and the housing, the hose including a fluid delivery conduit in fluid communication with the supply container and an airflow conduit in fluid communication with the recovery container.

[0158] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, comprising a wand interconnecting the tool and the hose, wherein the second user interface is on one of the tool and the wand.

[0159] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the light is a headlight on an upper side of the cleaning head behind a cover defining at least one of a suction nozzle and an agitator chamber.

[0160] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the light is an edge light wrapping at least partially around the second user interface.

[0161] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the cleaning head has a front and opposing first and second sides, and the light is an edge light wrapping at least partially around the front, first side, and second side of the cleaning head.

[0162] The above description relates to general and specific embodiments of the disclosure. However, various alterations and changes can be made without departing from the broader aspects of the disclosure as defined in the appended claims. As such, this disclosure is presented for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted as an exhaustive description of all embodiments of the disclosure or to limit the scope of the claims to the specific elements illustrated or described in connection with these embodiments. Any reference to elements in the singular, for example, using the articles "a," "an," "the," or "said," is not to be construed as limiting the element to the singular.

[0163] Likewise, it is also to be understood that the appended claims are not limited to express and particular compounds, compositions, or methods described in the detailed description, which may vary between particular embodiments that fall within the scope of the appended claims. With respect to any Markush groups relied upon herein for describing particular features or aspects of various embodiments, different, special, and/or unexpected results may be obtained from each member of the respective Markush group independent from all other Markush members. Each member of a Markush group may be relied upon individually and or in combination and provides adequate support for specific embodiments within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400), comprising:

a cleaning head (16, 116, 302, 402) adapted to move over a surface to be cleaned;

a housing (18, 118, 304, 404) coupled with the cleaning head (16, 116, 302, 402);

at least one cleaning system selected from a vacuum collection system, a fluid delivery system, and a fluid recovery system;

a first user interface (12, 112, 312, 412) on the housing (18, 118, 304, 404), the first user interface (12, 112, 312, 412) comprising:

a mode select input control (180, 232, 234, 236, 270) to select one of a plurality of modes of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400); and

a plurality of status indicators (56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 194, 224, 226, 240, 242, 244) representing the plurality of modes of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400); and

a second user interface (14, 114, 314, 414) on the cleaning head (16, 116, 302, 402), the second user interface (14, 114, 314, 414) comprising a status display (70, 198, 246) having a plurality of duplicate status indicators (72A, 72B, 72C, 200, 202, 204, 248, 250, 252) representing the plurality of modes of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400);

wherein the first and second user interfaces are structured so that when the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) is on, a status indicator corresponding to a selected mode of operation is illuminated and visible to a user on each of the housing (18, 118, 304, 404) and the cleaning head (16, 116, 302, 402).

2. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of claim 1, wherein the second user interface (14, 114, 314, 414) is structured so that when the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) is off, the status display (70, 198, 246) is blank.

3. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of any one of claims 1-2, wherein the first user interface (12, 112) is structured so that when the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110) is off, the plurality of status indicators (56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 194, 224, 226, 240, 242, 244) of the first user interface (12, 112) are visible.

4. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the housing (18, 118) comprises an upright body comprising a handle (22, 122) and a grip (24, 124) and the cleaning head (16, 116) comprises a base adapted to move over the surface to be cleaned, wherein the upright body is coupled with the base to direct the base over the surface to be cleaned, optionally wherein the first user interface (12, 112) is on the grip (24, 124).

5. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of claim 4, wherein the cleaning head (116) comprises a cover (208) defining at least one of a suction nozzle and an agitator chamber, and wherein the second user interface (114) is disposed on an upper side of the base rearward of the cover (208).

6. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the housing (404) comprises the fluid delivery system, and the fluid delivery system includes a supply container (416) and a recovery system including a recovery container (418), and the cleaning head (402) comprises a tool (402) in fluid communication with the supply container (416) and in fluid communication with the recovery container (418), wherein the second user interface (414) is on one of:

the tool (402); and

a wand (408) interconnecting the tool (402) and a hose (406).

7. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the first user interface (112) comprises at least one of:

a power button (178, 230) to activate and de-active at least one electronic component of the surface cleaning apparatus (110);

a steam button (184, 236) to select a steam mode in which the surface cleaning apparatus (110) generates steam; and

a clean-out cycle button (186) to select a self-cleaning mode in which the surface cleaning apparatus (110) executes an automatic, unattended clean-out cycle.

8. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the plurality of modes of operation comprise at least one liquid dispensing mode in which the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) dispenses liquid and at least one steam mode in which the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) generates steam.

9. A surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400), comprising:

a cleaning head (16, 116, 302, 402) adapted to move over a surface to be cleaned;

a housing (18, 118, 304, 404) coupled with the cleaning head (16, 116, 302, 402);

at least one cleaning system selected from a vacuum collection system, a fluid delivery system, and a fluid recovery system;

a first user interface (12, 112, 312, 412) on the housing (18, 118, 304, 404), the first user interface (12, 112, 312, 412) comprising a mode select input control (180, 232, 234, 236, 270) to select one of a plurality of modes of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400); and

a second user interface (14, 114, 314, 414) on the cleaning head (16, 116, 302, 402), the second user interface (14, 114, 314, 414) comprising a status display (70, 198, 246) having a plurality of status indicators (72A, 72B, 72C, 200, 202, 204, 248, 250, 252) representing the plurality of modes of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400);

wherein the second user interface (14, 114, 314, 414) is structured so that when the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) is off, the status display (70, 198, 246) is blank, and when the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) is on, a status indicator (72A, 72B, 72C, 200, 202, 204, 248, 250, 252) corresponding to a selected mode of operation is illuminated and visible to a user.

10. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of claim 9, wherein the cleaning head (16) comprises a translucent portion (76) and includes a plurality of illuminating elements (78A, 78B, 78C) positioned within the cleaning head (16).

11. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of any one of claims 9-10, wherein the status display (70) includes a masking layer (74) on an outer surface of the cleaning head (16), etched regions extending through the masking layer (74) defining the status indicators (72A, 72B, 72C), and a light-transmitting layer (82) covering at least the etched regions.

12. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of any one of claims 9-11, wherein the housing (18, 118) comprises an upright body comprising a handle (22, 122) and a grip (24, 124) and the cleaning head (16, 116) comprises a base adapted to move over the surface to be cleaned, wherein the upright body is coupled with the base to direct the base over the surface to be cleaned, optionally wherein the first user interface (12, 112) is on the grip (24, 124).

13. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of claim 12, wherein the cleaning head (116) comprises a cover (208) defining at least one of a suction nozzle and an agitator chamber, and wherein the second user interface (114) is disposed on an upper side of the base rearward of the cover (208).

14. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of any one of claims 9-13, wherein the first user interface (112) comprises at least one of:

a power button (178, 230) to activate and de-active at least one electronic component of the surface cleaning apparatus (110);

a steam button (184, 236) to select a steam mode in which the surface cleaning apparatus (110) generates steam; and

a clean-out cycle button (186) to select a self-cleaning mode in which the surface cleaning apparatus (110) executes an automatic, unattended clean-out cycle.

15. The surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) of any one of claims 9-14, wherein the plurality of modes of operation comprise at least one liquid dispensing mode in which the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) dispenses liquid and at least one steam mode in which the surface cleaning apparatus (10, 110, 300, 400) generates steam.

Drawing