Extendible cleaning implement

Abstract

An extendible cleaning implement for a cleaning machine which includes an adjustable length wand including a lower tube telescopically received in an upper tube. The length of the tubes can be adjusted using a latching mechanism for user convenience and to accommodate space limitations. A solution delivery conduit is provided with a portion of flexible tubing preformed in helix. The helix allows the conduit to extend or contract as the wand is lengthened or shortened, preventing “play” in the conduit and thereby eliminating both awkward use of the cleaning implement and potential user safety hazards.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . An extendible cleaning implement for use with a cleaning device comprising: 
 (a) an upper tube having a first diameter,    (b) a lower tube having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, said lower tube telescopically received within said upper tube,    (c) a dynamic seal located on said lower tube and maintaining a seal between said lower tube and said upper tube,    (d) a travel limit located on said lower tube and cooperating with said upper tube to prevent separation of said upper tube and said lower tube,    (e) a nozzle attached to the lower tube and having, 
 a solution injection portion for delivering a solution to a surface to be cleaned,  
 a vacuum portion in fluid communication with said lower tube for removing the solution from the surface to be cleaned,  
   (f) a latching mechanism for fixing said upper tube with respect to said lower tube,    (g) a solution delivery conduit attached at a top end to said upper tube and attached at a bottom end to said nozzle,    (h) a portion of said solution delivery conduit located between said top end and said bottom end being preformed in a helix,    said portion maintained in the helix as said lower tube is telescopically received within said upper tube.    
     
     
         2 . The extendible cleaning implement of  claim 1  wherein the latching mechanism further comprises: 
 (a) a switch located on said upper tube and moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position,  
 (b) a series of locked positions located on said lower tube and cooperating with said switch.  
 
     
     
         3 . The extendible cleaning implement of  claim 1  wherein the latching mechanism further comprises: 
 (a) a switch located on said upper tube and moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position, said switch further comprising: 
 i. a biasing surface located on one side of said switch,  
 ii. a spring contacting said biasing surface and urging said switch towards the locked position,  
 iii. a contacting surface located adjacent said biasing surface,  
 
 (b) a ball bearing in contact with said contacting surface,  
 (c) a series of depressions located on said lower tube and being shaped to receive said ball bearing in the locked position,  
 movement of said switch to the unlocked position allowing said ball bearing to move away from said series of depressions.