Title: Surface sweeper with floating broom chamber

Abstract: A maneuverable surface sweeper has a framework supporting a hopper configured to receive dust and debris swept from an underlying surface. A broom chamber is mounted within the framework overlying the surface to be swept and in communication with the hopper. The broom chamber may move vertically relative to the framework. A rotary driven broom is mounted in the broom chamber and has limited vertical movement capability relative to the chamber. A resilient tubular seal is disposed between the broom chamber and the hopper so that dust control is obtained therebetween while the broom chamber undergoes vertical movement. A bump encountered on the underlying surface elevates the broom chamber permitting the sweeper to pass thereover while allowing the broom to descend and continue in sweeping contact with the surface.

Do you think this is a good invention? Vote now:

Votes so far: For:(0) Against:(0)
Other info:

Inventors: Overton, Billy J. (Laquinta, CA, US)

Application Number: 948846
Filing Date: 1978-10-05
Publication_date: 1980-05-06
Assignee: FMC Corporation (San Jose, CA)
Primary Class(es): 15/349 15/83, 15/340.4, 15/359
Other Classes:
US Patent Ref:

982570	Jan, 1911	Brooks	15/83.
1286481	Dec, 1918	Woodin	15/82.
1904881	Apr, 1933	Presbrey	15/82.
2156065	Aug, 1939	Royer	15/82.
2448328	Aug, 1948	Russell	15/83.
3006021	Oct, 1961	Patch	15/83.
3112593	Dec, 1963	Ronning	56/14.
3189931	Jun, 1965	Peabody	15/83.
3584325	Jun, 1971	Larsen et al.	15/83.
4007026	Feb, 1977	Groh	15/352.
4041567	Aug, 1977	Burgoon	15/83.

Other Refs:
Primary Examiner: Moore, Christopher K.
Assistant Examiner:
Attorney: Kelly; R. S., Stanley; H. M., Verhoeven; J. F.