In addition, while a certain degree of individualisation is required, the introduction of countless different models is not an efficient or cost-effective answer. The latest machines are freely configurable by the operator; according to floor texture, surface and degree of soiling. Roller or disc, battery or cord, with/without protective roof, wide/narrow wheels – the list can be as diverse as when buying a new car. This includes innovative accessories such as automatic cleaning agent dosing units or systems for setting up different user profiles for operators, service technicians and facility managers.
FOCUSING ON THE ENVIRONMENT?
ECO CONCEPTS ON THE INCREASE. Ecology has become an increasingly important topic for building service contractors and their customers in recent years, significantly affecting the demand for ecologically sustainable solutions.
Today, different manufacturers offer ECO modes which, depending on the degree of soiling, can adjust the energy and resource consumption to suit the cleaning task at hand. Noise emission is another important topic which has driven continual improvements in power output, whilst conserving precious water resources has the added benefit of allowing longer cleaning times on a single tank.
Kärcher’s commitment to climate-neutral cleaning extends from the avoidance of CO2 in machine production to the eco!efficiency mode on its machines to eco!zero, a compensation program for its customers to offset CO2 emissions in cleaning applications through support of climate projects.
at the push of a button. Likewise dirty water tanks, where nothing adheres to the surface or are self-cleaning – ideally with an automatic rinsing system – mean greater hygiene and more convenient handling for the operator.
The product design also makes work easier – although it is often said that it isn’t important in the cleaning industry, the popularity of Kärcher’s sleek, inconspicuous anthracite exteriors appears to refute this. Kärcher always strives to make users’ work a more enjoyable experience and acknowledges people don’t always embrace the joy of cleaning; when it launched its 1988 trike - based on the motorised three wheelers of the motorcycle world - the press release read: "Due to its attractive appearance and ride comfort, the model promises more enjoyment and greater motivation during the often unpopular task of cleaning."
BACK TO THE FUTURE? LEADING THE EVERYTHING FOR THE OPERATOR?
ERGONOMICS AND PRODUCT DESIGN. When the first floor polisher was introduced, the main focus was how could work be made easier? Since the 1990’s, ergonomics has been the key driver, not only for user-friendliness but also regulated by law. With some walk-behind machines weighing 500kg, being able to set the handle position and precisely control the traction drive to suit the individual operator has a huge impact on fatigue- free working. Other ergonomic concepts include control elements in prominent colours and easy brush replacement
58 | SCRUBBER DRYERS
WAY: AUTOMATION AND MORE. The full adoption of partly or even fully automated solutions still seems to be a long way off - despite the fact that Kärcher developed a cleaning robot back in the 1990’s. Although there are already machines available on the market, they are designed for large surfaces and are only economically viable there.
Digitisation and automation will certainly offer new possibilities for floor cleaning, however always oriented on clear added value for the user. If safety and efficiency can be combined 100% in the area of cleaning robots and also realised on small, heavily-furnished areas, then truly autonomous cleaning may yet be the trend for the next 100 years of scrubber driers.
www.karcher.co.uk twitter.com/TomoCleaning
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