Modular hub console for floor cleaning machine

US9226634B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• TENNANT COMPANY · US

Inventors

• John C. Ickes · Joplin, US
• Matthew R. Hetler · Crystal, US
• Daniel A. Leitschuh · Fridley, US
• Adam S. Foley · Blaine, US
• Richard S. Walters · Port Washington, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 5, 2010
• Grant date: Jan 5, 2016
• Expiry date: Jul 30, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B60Y2200/15
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A floor surface maintenance vehicle, and methods of using a floor surface maintenance vehicle, the vehicle including a frame, a plurality of wheels, a cleaning component extending from an underside of the frame, a steering wheel having a central aperture and rotatable about a central axis, and a steering wheel hub located within the central aperture of the steering wheel and having a panel, wherein the panel is stationary relative to the central axis. Buttons are provided on the panel, including a first button that is C-shaped and extends around a portion of a periphery of the panel. The C-shaped button may be used to control frequently used functions such as cleaning functions or operation of a horn, for example.