CN114568999B

CN114568999B - Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning devices

Info

Publication number: CN114568999B
Application number: CN202210252963.5A
Authority: CN
Inventors: W·E·康拉德
Original assignee: Omachron Intellectual Property Inc
Current assignee: Omachron Intellectual Property Inc
Priority date: 2016-12-28
Filing date: 2017-12-11
Publication date: 2023-09-15
Anticipated expiration: 2037-12-11
Also published as: CN110291024B; CN114568999A; CN110291024A; WO2018119512A1

Abstract

Dust and allergen control for a surface cleaning apparatus. Various dust control mechanisms are provided to inhibit the formation of dust plumes when the dirt collection chamber of the air handling component is emptied into the waste container. The dust control mechanism may be part of the lid of the waste container, it may be built into the body of the waste container, or it may be part of the surface cleaning apparatus.

Description

Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning devices

The application is a divisional application of a Chinese patent application with the application number of 201780085291.0, the application date of 2017, 12, 11 and the name of dust and allergen control for surface cleaning devices.

Technical Field

The present application relates generally to dust and allergen control for surface cleaning devices, and more particularly to a system and method for confining dust and other allergens during transfer of material collected by a surface cleaning device to a trash can or other waste container.

Background

Various types of surface cleaning apparatuses are known, including upright surface cleaning apparatuses, canister surface cleaning apparatuses, pole surface cleaning apparatuses, hand held surface cleaning apparatuses, and central vacuum systems.

Surface cleaning apparatuses are known that use one or more cleaning stages (e.g., cyclonic cleaning stages) to remove particulate matter (e.g., dust and dirt) from an airflow. Typically, a second cleaning stage (which may include, for example, a plurality of cyclones in parallel) is provided downstream of the first cleaning stage to remove particulate matter from the airstream leaving the first cleaning stage (e.g. by facilitating the escape of smaller particles from entrainment with the airstream).

Particulate matter separated from the airflow by the cyclonic cleaning stage is typically collected in one or more dirt collection chambers. Typically, these collection chambers are removable from the surface cleaning apparatus either by themselves or as part of a removable cyclone assembly. Providing a removable dirt collection chamber and/or cyclone assembly may allow a user to carry the collection chamber and its contents to, for example, a waste container (which may also be referred to as a trash can) to empty it without the need to carry or move the remainder of the surface cleaning apparatus.

Typically, the dirt collection chamber is openable for accessing the interior of the dirt collection chamber, for example for emptying or cleaning. For example, the collection chamber may have one or more openable portions that are movably (e.g., pivotably) connected to or removable from the collection chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the cyclone assembly in which the collection chamber is provided may have one or more openable portions, for example providing access to the interior of the cyclone chamber.

Surface cleaning devices that collect particulate matter in an openable dirt collection chamber (which may be referred to as "bagless" vacuum cleaners) may have one or more advantages over surface cleaning devices in which particulate matter is collected in a bag or other non-openable collector. For example, the effective suction provided at a dirty air inlet of, for example, a surface cleaning apparatus may be relatively constant regardless of the amount of particulate matter in the dirt collection chamber.

However, the dirt collected in the openable dirt collection chamber must be transferred to a trash can or the like to empty the openable dirt collection chamber.

Disclosure of Invention

The following references are provided to introduce the reader to the more detailed discussion below. The recitation is not intended to limit or define any claimed or as yet to be claimed application. One or more applications may reside in any combination or sub-combination of elements or method steps disclosed in any portion of this document, including the claims and drawings thereof.

According to a first aspect of the application, a cover for a waste container may have an openable port that allows access to the interior of the waste container without removing the cover from the waste container. By placing the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus in the through opening, the contents of the dirt collection region can be emptied into the waste container without removing the cover. In such an arrangement, the cover may inhibit or prevent dust, allergens or other particulate matter from escaping from the interior of the waste container as the particulate matter is transferred from the dirt collection region to the waste container.

For example, the surface cleaning apparatus may have a dirt collection region or chamber removable from the surface cleaning apparatus, either alone or as part of a removable air treatment assembly (e.g., a removable cyclone assembly). The user may separate and transport such a dirt collection region into a waste container for emptying, or may transport the entire surface cleaning apparatus (e.g., a hand-held surface cleaning apparatus) to the waste container. If the dirt collection region is subsequently opened over or in an open waste container (e.g., a waste container whose lid has been removed), the contents will fall due to gravity. However, lighter particulate matter may become entrained in the airflow and may form a fine dust plume and/or may be carried to the floor in the vicinity of the waste container. According to this aspect, a user may place the dirt collection region in an open through opening of a cover of the waste, wherein the through opening is configured to inhibit or prevent dust, allergens, or other particulate matter from escaping from the interior of the waste container. For example, the size of the opening may be slightly larger than the dirt collection region, thereby providing a smaller annular gap between the cover and the dirt collection region to reduce the likelihood of dust, allergens or other particulate matter escaping from the interior of the waste container. Alternatively or additionally, the port may be provided with a gasket, or may be configured to close around the dirt collection container to inhibit or prevent dust, allergens or other particulate matter from escaping from the interior of the waste container.

According to this broad aspect there is provided a lid for a waste container, the lid being movable between a closed position in which the lid covers an open upper end of the waste container and an open position in which the waste container can be emptied, the lid having an openable through-opening operable between a closed position in which the lid closes the upper end of the waste container and an open position in which a dirt collection region of an air handling member of a surface cleaning apparatus is located in the through-opening.

In some embodiments, in the open position, the cover may be closed around the dirt collection region.

In some embodiments, in the open position, the opening may be sized to close around the dirt collection region such that the waste container is at least substantially sealed.

In some embodiments, the cover may include at least one movable member; when the through opening is in the closed position, the movable member closes the through opening; and when the port is in the open position and a portion of the surface cleaning apparatus is located in the port, the movable member is positioned adjacent the portion of the surface cleaning apparatus and the dirt collection region is located above the bottom of the waste container.

In some embodiments, the cover may include at least one movable member; when the through opening is in the closed position, the movable member closes the through opening; and when the through opening is in the open position and a portion of the surface cleaning apparatus is located in the through opening, the movable member abuts the portion of the surface cleaning apparatus and the dirt collection region is located above the bottom of the waste container.

In some embodiments, the cover may include at least one movable member; when the through opening is in the closed position, the movable member closes the through opening; and when the port is in the open position, the movable member is bent inwardly into the waste container.

In some embodiments, the at least one movable member may be biased toward the closed position.

In some embodiments, the at least one movable member may comprise a plurality of sections, each section having an outer end located at the periphery of the openable aperture and an inner end, in a closed position the sections closing the aperture and in an open position at least a portion of the sections extending into the waste container.

In some embodiments, the section may be integrally formed as part of the cover.

In some embodiments, the cover may be formed of an elastic material.

In some embodiments, the dirt collection region may have an openable door and a door actuator, and the cover may further include a cover actuator drivingly connected to the door actuator when the dirt collection region is located in the through opening.

In some embodiments, the lid may further comprise a suction motor having a suction motor inlet end in airflow communication with the interior space of the waste container and a suction motor outlet end in airflow communication with the ambient atmosphere outside the waste container when the lid is in the closed position.

Also in accordance with this broad aspect, there is provided a waste bin comprising a container defining an interior space and a lid movable between a closed position in which the lid covers an open upper end of the container and an open position in which the container can be emptied, the lid having an openable through-opening operable between a closed position in which the lid closes the upper end of the container and an open position in which a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus is located in the through-opening.

In some embodiments, in the open position, the through opening may be sized to close around the dirt collection region such that the container is at least substantially sealed.

In some embodiments, the cover may include at least one movable member; when the through opening is in the closed position, the movable member closes the through opening; and when the through opening is in the open position, the movable member is bent inwardly into the container.

In some embodiments, the at least one movable member may comprise a plurality of sections, each section having an outer end located at the periphery of the openable aperture and an inner end, in a closed position the sections closing the aperture and in an open position at least a portion of the sections extending into the container.

In some embodiments, the section may be integrally formed as part of the cover.

In some embodiments, the cover may be formed of an elastic material.

In some embodiments, the trash can further include a suction motor having a suction motor inlet end in airflow communication with the interior space of the container and a suction motor outlet end in airflow communication with the ambient atmosphere outside the container.

According to a second aspect of the application, the waste container may be provided with a suction source to suck air from the interior space of the container, which may reduce the air pressure within the waste container. By drawing some air from the interior space of the container, for example when particulate matter is transferred from the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus through an opening of the waste container (e.g. an open top of the waste container), a substantial amount or substantially all of the dust, allergens or other fine particulate matter dispersed in the air in the interior space of the container may be drawn from the interior space towards the suction source, or may be inhibited or prevented from escaping from the interior of the waste container through the opening, thereby remaining in the interior space for deposition into the waste container. Moreover, fine particulate matter that may be dispersed in the air above the interior space of the waste container when the dirt collection region is emptied may be drawn into the interior of the waste container and may be drawn toward the suction source.

For example, the surface cleaning apparatus may have a dirt collection region or chamber removable from the surface cleaning apparatus, either alone or as part of a removable air treatment assembly (e.g., a removable cyclone assembly). The user may separate and handle such a waste collection area into a waste container for emptying and open the waste collection area over or in an open waste container (e.g. a waste container with its lid removed), whereby gravity will cause at least some of the contents of the waste collection area to fall into the interior of the waste container. However, opening the dirt collection region for emptying may cause a cloud or plume of fine dust or other particles to tumble outwardly from the opening of the dirt collection region and/or from the container into which the dirt collection region is being emptied. Particles in such plumes or clouds may disperse during the evacuation process, resulting in incomplete transfer from the dirt collection region to the interior of the waste container. This may be considered undesirable by the user, particularly if the plume or cloud contains dust or other allergens to which the user is sensitive.

By providing a suction source to draw air from the interior space of the waste container, some or all of the fine dust or other particles generated during emptying of the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus may be drawn into the interior of the waste container, which may allow for a more controlled transfer of the contents of the dirt collection region to the waste container.

According to this second aspect, there is provided a waste bin comprising a container defining an interior space, a lid movable between a closed position and an open position, and a suction motor having a suction motor inlet end in airflow communication with the interior space of the container and a suction motor outlet end in airflow communication with ambient atmosphere outside the container.

In some embodiments, a suction source may be provided on the cover.

In some embodiments, a suction source may be removably mounted on the cover.

In some embodiments, a suction source may be attached to the container.

In some embodiments, a suction source may be removably mounted on the container.

In some embodiments, the trash can further include an air flow path extending from the interior space to the clean air outlet, the air flow path including the suction motor and the air handling member.

In some embodiments, the air treatment member may comprise a cyclone.

In some embodiments, the trash can further include a pre-motor filter in the air flow path upstream of the suction motor.

In some embodiments, the trash can may further include a dust control member that provides a dust control agent including one or more of liquid mist, positive ions, and negative ions to the interior space.

In some embodiments, a dust control agent may be provided when soil is introduced into the interior space.

In some embodiments, the dust control agent may be automatically provided when soil is introduced into the interior space.

According to this second aspect of the application, a lid for a waste container may be provided with a suction source to suck air from an area adjacent the opening of the container. By drawing air from the region adjacent the container opening, for example, dust, allergens or other fine particulate matter dispersed in the air above or in the interior space of the container may be drawn into the interior of the waste container, or prevented from escaping from the interior of the waste container, as particulate matter is transferred from the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus to the waste container.

According to this second broad aspect, there is provided a lid for a waste container, the lid being movable between a closed position in which the lid covers an open upper end of the waste container and an open position in which the waste container can be emptied, wherein when the lid is in the closed position, a suction motor inlet end is in airflow communication with an interior space of the waste container and a suction motor outlet end is in airflow communication with ambient atmosphere outside the waste container.

In some embodiments, a suction source may be removably mounted on the cover.

In some embodiments, the cover may further include an air flow path extending from the interior space to the clean air outlet, the air flow path including a suction motor and an air handling member.

In some embodiments, the air treatment member may comprise a cyclone.

In some embodiments, the cover may further include a pre-motor filter in the air flow path upstream of the suction motor.

In some embodiments, the cover may further include a dust control member that provides a dust control agent including one or more of liquid mist, positive ions, and negative ions to the interior space.

According to a third aspect of the application, the cyclone assembly of the surface cleaning apparatus may have a flexible closure member for closing the upper end of the waste container. By spreading the flexible closure member around the waste container prior to opening the dirt collection region of the cyclone assembly, a closed space may be provided between the openable door of the dirt collection region and the interior of the waste container. In such an arrangement, the closure member may inhibit or prevent dust, allergens or other particulate matter from escaping from the interior of the waste container as the particulate matter is transferred from the dirt collection region to the waste container.

For example, the surface cleaning apparatus may have a cyclone assembly that may be removed from the surface cleaning apparatus as a unit, and such a cyclone assembly may include a dirt collection region or chamber. The user may remove and transport such cyclone assemblies into the waste container for emptying. Instead of opening the dirt collection region in an open or open waste container above the waste container and relying on gravity to transfer the contents of the dirt collection region to the interior of the waste container, a flexible closure member may be deployed around the upper end of the waste container prior to opening the dirt collection region, which may result in a more controlled transfer of the contents of the dirt collection region to the waste container. In particular, lighter collected materials that may become entrained in the air when the dirt collection region is opened may be contained within an enclosed or substantially enclosed space and thus may be isolated or substantially isolated to create an airflow that may form a fine dust plume, or if such a plume is formed, it will be located inside the enclosure and thus the plume will be contained.

According to this third aspect, there is provided a cyclone barrel assembly for a surface cleaning apparatus, the cyclone barrel assembly comprising: a dirt collection region for a cyclone, the dirt collection region having an openable door; and a flexible closure member movable to a deployed position, wherein a first portion of the closure member is disposed on the cyclone barrel assembly and a second portion of the closure member closes an upper end of the waste container such that when the closure member is in the deployed position, an enclosed space is provided that includes an interior space of the waste container and the openable door is located in the enclosed space.

In some embodiments, the flexible closure member may be mounted to an outer surface of the cyclone barrel assembly.

In some embodiments, the flexible closure member may be gas impermeable.

In some embodiments, the closure member may be removably mounted to the cyclone barrel assembly.

In some embodiments, the closure member may be movable to a retracted position in which the second portion of the closure member is retracted and secured to the cyclone barrel assembly.

In some embodiments, the second portion of the closure member may have a securing member that retains the second portion on the waste container when the flexible closure member is in the deployed position.

In some embodiments, the securing member may include at least one of a resilient member and a pull cord.

In some embodiments, the flexible closure member may comprise a cover.

In some embodiments, the cyclone barrel assembly may further comprise an actuator for the openable door, and the actuator is located outside of the enclosed space when the flexible closure member is in the deployed position.

According to this third aspect, there is also provided a dirt collection system comprising: a cyclone barrel assembly including a dirt collection region for a cyclone, the dirt collection region having an openable door; and a flexible closure member movable to a deployed position, wherein a first portion of the closure member is disposed on the cyclone barrel assembly and a second portion of the closure member closes an upper end of the waste container such that when the closure member is in the deployed position, an enclosed space is provided that includes an interior space of the waste container and the openable door is located in the enclosed space; and a waste container including a suction motor having a suction motor inlet end in airflow communication with an interior space of the waste container and a suction motor outlet end in airflow communication with ambient atmosphere external to the waste container.

According to this third aspect, there is also provided a dirt collection device comprising: a dirt collection region having an openable door; and a flexible closure member movable to an extended position, wherein a first portion of the closure member is disposed on the dirt collection device and a second portion of the closure member closes an upper end of the waste container such that when the closure member is in the closed position, an enclosed space is provided that includes an interior space of the waste container and the openable door is located in the enclosed space.

In some embodiments, the flexible closure member may be mounted to an outer surface of the dirt collection device.

In some embodiments, the flexible closure member may be gas impermeable.

In some embodiments, the closure member may be movable to a retracted position in which the second portion of the closure member is retracted and secured to the dirt collection device.

In some embodiments, the flexible closure member may comprise a cover.

In some embodiments, the dirt collection device may further include an actuator for the openable door, and the actuator is located outside of the enclosed space when the flexible closure member is in the deployed position.

According to this third aspect, there is also provided a dirt collection system comprising: a dirt collection device, comprising: a dirt collection region having an openable door; and a flexible closure member movable to an extended position, wherein a first portion of the closure member is disposed on the dirt collection device and a second portion of the closure member closes an upper end of the waste container such that when the closure member is in a closed position, an enclosed space is provided that includes an interior space of the waste container and the openable door is located in the enclosed space; and a waste container including a suction motor having a suction motor inlet end in airflow communication with an interior space of the waste container and a suction motor outlet end in airflow communication with ambient atmosphere external to the waste container.

According to a fourth aspect of the application, the waste container may be provided with a dust control system for providing dust control agent to the waste container interior and/or to a region above the waste container interior, for example below a waste evacuation outlet of a waste collection region of the surface treatment apparatus. By providing a dust control agent in or above the interior space of the container, it is possible to inhibit or prevent dust, allergens or other fine particulate matter from dispersing into the air, for example, when the particulate matter is transferred from the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus to the waste container. For example, by wetting the particulate matter, the particulate matter will be heavier and less likely to form a dust plume. Alternatively, the particulate matter may acquire an electrical charge during passage through the cyclone. By at least partially neutralizing any such charge that may be available to the particulate matter, the particulate matter is less likely to scatter and form a dust plume as it leaves the dirt collection region.

Alternatively or additionally, the waste container may be provided with a treatment applicator to provide a treatment agent (e.g. deodorant, antiseptic, disinfectant) to the interior space of the waste container. By providing such a treatment agent, one or more negative aspects of dust, allergens or other particulate matter located in the interior space of the container, such as unpleasant odors, possible bacterial or microbial growth, may be inhibited or eliminated.

Also according to this fourth aspect, the surface treatment apparatus may be provided with a dust control system to provide dust control agent to the openable door of the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus and/or to provide dust control agent towards the region adjacent to the openable door. By providing the openable door of the dirt collection region with a dust control agent, when the openable door is opened (e.g., when transferring particulate matter from the dirt collection region to the waste container), the dispersion of dust, allergens, or other fine particulate matter into the air may be inhibited or prevented.

Alternatively or additionally, the surface treatment device may be provided with a treatment applicator to provide a treatment agent (e.g. deodorant, antiseptic, disinfectant) to the interior space (dirt collection area) of the air treatment member of the surface treatment device. By providing such a treatment agent, one or more negative aspects of dust, allergens or other particulate matter located in the interior space of the air treatment member, such as unpleasant odors, possible bacterial or microbial growth, may be inhibited or eliminated.

According to this fourth aspect there is provided an apparatus comprising one or more surface treatment apparatus having an air treatment member and a waste container, wherein at least one of the surface treatment apparatus and the waste container comprises one or more of: a) A dust control member that supplies a dust control agent including one or more of liquid mist, positive ions, and negative ions to a region below a dirt evacuation outlet of a dirt collection region of the surface treatment apparatus; and b) a treatment applicator that provides a treatment agent comprising one or more of a deodorant, a bactericide, and a disinfectant to the interior space of the air treatment member and the interior space of the waste container.

In some embodiments, one of the surface treatment device and the waste container may include a dust control member and a treatment applicator.

In some embodiments, the dust control member may include one or more nozzles directed toward a region below the dirt evacuation outlet of the dirt collection region of the surface treatment apparatus.

In some embodiments, the nozzle may introduce the dust control agent into a location below the dirt evacuation outlet and above the bottom of the waste container.

In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise a cover that when the waste evacuation outlet is open and the cover is in the deployed position, provides an enclosed space that includes the interior space of the waste container and the interior space of the waste collection region, and the nozzle introduces a dust control agent into the enclosed space.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may include a dirt separation member having a dirt evacuation outlet, the nozzle being located around at least a portion of a periphery of the dirt separation member.

In some embodiments, a nozzle may be provided on the waste container.

In some embodiments, the dust control member may be automatically actuated when the dirt evacuation outlet is opened.

In some embodiments, the dust control member may be automatically actuated prior to opening the dirt evacuation outlet.

In some embodiments, one of the surface treatment apparatus and the waste container that includes a dust control member may further include a dust control agent reservoir.

In some embodiments, the waste container may further include a suction motor having a suction motor inlet end in airflow communication with the interior space of the waste container and a suction motor outlet end in airflow communication with the ambient atmosphere outside the waste container.

In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise an air flow path extending from the interior space to the clean air outlet, the air flow path comprising a suction motor and a waste container air handling member.

In some embodiments, the waste container air treatment member may comprise a cyclone.

In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise a pre-motor filter in the air flow path upstream of the suction motor.

In some embodiments, the treatment agent may include one or more of ozone, ultraviolet light, and hydrogen peroxide.

In some embodiments, the treatment agent may include ozone, and the waste container further includes an air flow path extending from the interior space of the waste container to the clean air outlet, the air flow path including a suction motor and ozone-destroying material.

In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise a cover that, when the waste evacuation outlet is open and the cover is in the deployed position, provides an enclosed space comprising the interior space of the waste container and the interior space of the waste collection region, and the treatment agent is introduced into the enclosed space.

In some embodiments, the treating agent may be provided at predetermined intervals.

In some embodiments, the treatment agent may be provided after a predetermined number of uses of the surface cleaning apparatus.

In some embodiments, the treatment agent may be provided by manual actuation.

In some embodiments, the treatment agent may be provided after the soil collection region is emptied.

According to a fifth aspect of the application, the surface cleaning apparatus may be configured to selectively draw air from the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus such that the air pressure in the dirt collection region may be reduced to a pressure below ambient pressure when the openable door of the dirt collection region is in the open position. By sucking air from the interior space of the dirt collection region, when the openable door is opened (e.g. when transferring particulate matter from the dirt collection region to the waste container), the dispersion of dust, allergens or other fine particulate matter into the air can be inhibited or prevented. For example, air may be drawn directly from the dirt chamber and/or from a cyclone in airflow communication with the dirt chamber via a cyclone chamber dirt outlet. Air may be drawn to the suction motor and may be filtered before and/or after passing through or across the suction motor. The suction motor may be the same suction motor as used for cleaning the surface and/or a separate suction motor.

For example, the surface cleaning apparatus may have a cyclone assembly that includes a dirt collection region or chamber having an openable door. A user may place such a cyclone assembly over a waste container for emptying. The air pressure in the dirt collection region may be reduced to a pressure below ambient air before, simultaneously with, or after the door of the dirt collection region is opened, which may result in a net flow of air into the dirt collection region, thereby drawing and/or retaining finer dust, allergens, or other fine particulate matter toward the dirt collection region. Thus, evacuating the dirt collection region may not form in the air or form a plume of dust that may fall out of the waste container. For example, larger dirt particles collected in the dirt collection region may be directed by gravity into the interior of the waste container, while some or all of the finer dust or other finer particles may be drawn toward the opening of the dirt collection region, which may otherwise form a cloud or plume that is rising outwardly from the opening of the dirt collection region.

According to this fifth aspect, there is provided a surface cleaning apparatus comprising: a) An air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet and comprising a primary air handling member having a dirt collection region with an openable door; and b) a main suction motor disposed in the air flow path, wherein the dirt collection region is exposed to sub-atmospheric pressure (sub-atmospheric pressure) when the openable door is in the open position.

In some embodiments, the dirt collection region may be automatically exposed to sub-atmospheric pressure when the openable door is opened.

In some embodiments, the dirt collection region may be automatically exposed to sub-atmospheric pressure prior to the openable door opening.

In some embodiments, the main suction motor may be used to provide sub-atmospheric pressure to the dirt collection chamber.

In some embodiments, the main suction motor may be operable in a cleaning mode in which the main suction motor is configured to draw air from the dirty air inlet through the main air handling member to the clean air outlet, and an evacuation mode in which the main suction motor is configured to provide sub-atmospheric pressure to the dirt collection chamber, and the main suction motor is operated at a lower power level during the evacuation mode.

In some embodiments, the main suction motor may generate sufficient suction to generate an air flow of 0.1 cubic feet per minute (CFM) to 1.5CFM per square inch of open area during the evacuation mode, preferably 0.25CFM to 1.25CFM per square inch of open area during the evacuation mode, more preferably 0.50CFM to 1.00CFM per square inch of open area during the evacuation mode.

In some embodiments, the main suction motor may be operable in a cleaning mode in which the main suction motor is for drawing air from the dirty air inlet through the main air handling member to the clean air outlet, and an evacuation mode in which the main suction motor is for providing sub-atmospheric pressure to the dirt collection chamber, wherein the first pre-motor filter is located in a main downstream portion of the air flow path from the main air handling member to the main suction motor during the cleaning mode, and an alternative air handling member is disposed in an alternative downstream air flow path from the main air handling member to the main suction motor during the evacuation mode.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further include a primary closure member associated with the primary downstream portion of the air flow path and an alternate closure member associated with the alternate downstream air flow path, each of the primary and alternate closure members being movable between an open position and a closed position; wherein, during the cleaning mode, the primary closure member is open and the alternative closure member is closed, whereby the primary suction motor is in airflow communication with the primary air handling member through the primary downstream portion of the air flow path; during the evacuation mode, the primary closure member is closed and the alternate closure member is opened, whereby the primary suction motor is in airflow communication with the primary air handling member through an alternate downstream air flow path.

In some embodiments, the alternative air treatment member may comprise a filter.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further include an evacuation mode suction motor that provides sub-atmospheric pressure to the dirt collection chamber.

In some embodiments, the evacuation mode suction motor may generate a sub-atmospheric pressure that is less than the pressure in the primary air handling component during operation of the primary suction motor.

In some embodiments, the main suction motor may generate sufficient suction to generate an air flow of 0.1CFM to 1.5CFM per square inch of opening area during the evacuation mode, preferably 0.25CFM to 1.25CFM per square inch of opening area during the evacuation mode, more preferably 0.50CFM to 1.00CFM per square inch of opening area during the evacuation mode.

In some embodiments, a portion of the air flow path may connect the evacuation mode suction motor in airflow communication with the dirt collection region during an evacuation mode of the dirt collection region.

In some embodiments, a portion of the air flow path may be located upstream of the primary air treatment member.

In some embodiments, the evacuation mode air handling component may be located in a portion of the air flow path.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may include a primary closure member associated with a portion of the air flow path, the primary closure member being movable between an open position and a closed position; wherein, during a cleaning mode, the primary closure member is closed whereby air travels from the dirty air inlet to the primary air handling member without contacting the empty mode air handling member; during the evacuation mode, the primary closure member is opened whereby air travels from the primary air handling member through the evacuation mode air handling member.

In some embodiments, the evacuation mode air treatment component may include a filter.

In some embodiments, the primary air handling member may include a cyclone.

In some embodiments, the dirt collection region may include a dirt collection chamber external to the cyclone.

It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the apparatus or methods disclosed herein may embody any one or more of the features contained herein and may use the features in any particular combination or sub-combination.

These and other aspects and features of the various embodiments are described in more detail below.

Drawings

For a better understanding of the described embodiments, and to show more clearly how they may be carried into effect, reference will be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a container and a lid having an openable port according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the container and lid of FIG. 1 with the lid in an open position and overlapping the open interior of the container;

FIG. 3 is a top view of the cover of FIG. 1 with the openable port in a closed position;

FIG. 4 is a top view of the cover of FIG. 1 with the openable port in an open position;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the container and lid of FIG. 1 taken along line 5-5 with the openable port in a closed position;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the container and cover of FIG. 5 with the cyclone dirt container in an openable port and the cyclone dirt container in a closed condition;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the container and cover of FIG. 5 with the cyclone dirt container in an openable port and the cyclone dirt container in an open condition;

FIG. 8 is a top view of the cover of FIG. 1 with the cyclone dirt container in the openable port;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a container and lid with a lid actuator drivingly connected to a door actuator of a cyclone dirt tub positioned in an openable opening of the lid in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a container, a first cover having an open access, a second cover in a removed position, and a suction source according to one embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the container and first cover of FIG. 10 taken along line 11-11 with the cyclone soil bucket positioned above the container with the cyclone soil bucket in a closed condition;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the container and first cover of FIG. 11 with the cyclonic dirt container in an open condition and the suction source drawing air from the interior space of the container;

FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view of a container, a first cap with an open port and a suction source, and a second cap in a removed position according to another embodiment;

FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view of the first cover and suction source of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a container, a first cover having an open port, and a cyclone barrel assembly having an expandable closure member according to one embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a container, a first cover having an open port, and a cyclone barrel assembly having an expandable closure member in a closed condition according to another embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the container, first cover, cyclone barrel assembly and deployable closure member of FIG. 15 with the cyclone barrel assembly in an open state;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a container, a first cover having an open port, and a cyclone barrel assembly having a deployable closure member in an open state in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a container and a first cover having an open through opening and a dust control member providing a dust control agent according to one embodiment;

FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the cover of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a container and a first cover having an open port with first and second dust control members for providing dust control agents, a cyclone dirt bucket positioned above the container, the cyclone dirt bucket in a closed state, according to another embodiment;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the container and first cover of FIG. 20 with the cyclonic dirt container in an open condition and the first and second dust control members providing dust control agents;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a cyclone barrel assembly having a dust control member providing a dust control agent in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a cyclone barrel assembly having a dust control member for providing a dust control agent in a closed state according to another embodiment;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the cyclone barrel assembly of FIG. 23 with the cyclone dirt barrel in an open condition and the dust control member providing a dust control agent;

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of a cyclone barrel assembly having a dust control member for providing a dust control agent configured to automatically provide the dust control agent when an openable door of a dirt collection region is opened in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a cyclone barrel assembly having a dust control member for providing a dust control agent configured to automatically provide the dust control agent and then open an openable door of a dirt collection region in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a container, a cap, and a suction source according to another embodiment, wherein an ozone gas generator is disposed on an inner wall of the container, and a UV light source is disposed on the cap;

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a cyclone barrel assembly in accordance with another embodiment in which a UV light source and an ozone gas generator are disposed in a dirt collection region and having a suction source and ozone destroying material;

FIG. 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cyclone barrel assembly having a conduit and a valve for directing suction from a suction source to selectively draw air out of the cyclone barrel assembly via a cyclone dirty air inlet or via a cyclone air outlet, wherein an openable door of a dirt collection region is in a closed condition and the suction source draws air out of the cyclone barrel assembly via the cyclone air outlet, in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 30 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cyclone barrel assembly of FIG. 29 with the openable door in an open condition and the suction source drawing air out of the cyclone barrel assembly through the cyclone dirty air inlet;

FIG. 31 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cyclone barrel assembly in accordance with another embodiment wherein an auxiliary suction source is used to draw air out of the cyclone barrel assembly via a cyclone dirty air inlet, an openable door of a dirt collection region is in a closed condition, and the suction source draws air out of the cyclone barrel assembly through a cyclone air outlet;

figure 32 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cyclone barrel assembly having a valve for directing suction from a suction source to selectively draw air out of the cyclone barrel assembly via a cyclone air outlet and an auxiliary cyclone air outlet proximate the cyclone dirty air inlet, wherein an openable door of the dirt collection region is in an open condition and the suction source draws air out of the cyclone barrel assembly via the auxiliary cyclone air outlet, in accordance with another embodiment.

The drawings included herein are intended to depict the various examples, methods, and apparatus herein for the teachings of the specification, and are not intended to limit the scope of the teachings in any way.

Detailed Description

Various apparatuses, methods, and compositions are described below to provide examples of embodiments of each of the claimed inventions. The implementations described below are not limiting of any claimed invention, and any claimed invention may encompass different devices or methods than those described below. The claimed invention is not limited to devices, methods, or compositions having all of the features of any one device, method, or composition described below, nor is it limited to features common to multiple or all of the devices, methods, or compositions described below. The apparatus, methods, or compositions described below may not be an implementation of any of the claimed inventions. Any inventions disclosed in the devices, methods, or compositions described below that are not claimed in this document may be the subject of another protective device (e.g., a continuous patent application), and applicant, inventor, and/or owner does not intend to forego, reject, or dedicate any such inventions to the public by the disclosure of this document.

Furthermore, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. Furthermore, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments described herein. However, it will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the exemplary embodiments described herein may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the example embodiments described herein. Moreover, the description should not be taken as limiting the scope of the exemplary embodiments described herein.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, the terms "one embodiment," embodiments, "" the embodiments, "" one or more embodiments, "" some embodiments, "and" one embodiment "mean" one or more (but not necessarily all) embodiments of the invention.

The terms "comprising," "including," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless expressly specified otherwise. The listing of items listed is not intended to imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, unless explicitly stated otherwise. The terms "a," "an," and "the" mean "one or more" unless expressly specified otherwise.

In the examples discussed herein, the dirt collection area (or dirt collection chamber) may be associated with any suitable type of surface cleaning apparatus (e.g., upright vacuum cleaner, canister vacuum cleaner, hand-held vacuum cleaner, stick vacuum cleaner, wet-dry vacuum cleaner, carpet extractor, etc.), and dust, allergens, or other particulate matter may be transferred from the dirt collection area (or dirt collection chamber) to a waste container or other container.

The following is a general description of a trash can that may be used with any aspect of the present application.

Referring to fig. 1-8, a container 20 and a cap 100, collectively referred to as 10, are shown generally. The container 20 may be referred to as a waste container, and the container 20 and the lid 100 may be collectively referred to as a trash can. The container 20 includes: an upper end 24 and a closed lower end 22; and a sidewall 26 extending between the lower end 22 and the upper end 24. The side wall 26 and the lower end 22 define an interior space 28 of the container 20. The cover 100 is configured to rest on the upper end 24 of the container 20 or to engage the upper end 24 of the container 20 such that the cover covers all or substantially all of the upper end 24. In this closed configuration, the cover 100 inhibits or prevents access to the interior space 28 of the container 20. The cover 100 is preferably removable from the waste container 20, for example to facilitate emptying of the container. It should be appreciated that the container 20 and the cover 100 may be of any configuration known in the art and may be lockingly secured to one another by any means known in the art.

In the examples discussed herein, dust, allergens, or other particulate matter are described as being transferred into the interior space 28 of the waste container 20. It will be appreciated that a second container, such as a waste bag or trash bag (e.g., a plastic or paper container that may be described as a disposable container), may be removably disposed in the waste container 20, such as lining all or substantially all of the interior space 28. For example, an upper portion of the second container may be disposed between the container 20 and the cover 100, and a lower portion of the second container may be disposed adjacent to or against the lower end 22 of the container 20. In such an arrangement, waste stored in the container 20 is actually stored in a second container, and the second container may be periodically removed from the container 20 to transfer the collected waste to, for example, a larger household waste container, e.g., a municipality or other service provider may collect the waste from the container for transport to a landfill, incinerator or the like.

As shown in fig. 1-8, the cover 100 has an upper surface 104 and a lower surface 102. The lower surface 102 is configured to cover the upper end 24 of the container 20 so as to substantially or completely enclose the interior space 28 of the container 20. For example, as shown in fig. 5, the lower surface 102 may have a channel 108, the channel 108 being sized to cover the sidewall 26 at the upper end 24 of the container 20 and engage the sidewall 26. Alternatively, the lower surface 102 and/or the upper end 24 may be provided in another configuration for mating engagement, for example the upper end 24 may have a channel in the top surface of the sidewall 26 and the lower surface 102 may have one or more downwardly extending protrusions for engaging such a channel.

In some embodiments disclosed herein, the cover may include an operative component and/or a portion of the fluid flow channel and/or the ion emitter. In this case, a two-part cover system may be used. In this case, as shown in fig. 10, the cover of the container 20 may include a first cover 100 and a second cover 5. In fig. 10, the second or upper cover 5 is also shown in the removed position. The upper cover 5 is configured to rest on the upper surface 104 of the cover 100 or to engage with the upper surface 104 of the cover 100 such that the second cover 5 covers all or substantially all of the through openings 110. The cover 5 is preferably removable from the cover 100. In the embodiment shown, the cover 5 has a handle 7, but in alternative embodiments such a handle may not be provided.

In some embodiments, the second or upper cover 5 may also be configured to rest on the upper end 24 of the container 20 or to engage with the upper end 24 of the container 20 such that the cover covers all or substantially all of the upper end 24. For example, the second cover 5 and the container 20 may be purchased or otherwise obtained in a kit, and the first or inner cover 100 may be configured to be retrofitted or otherwise provide some or all of the dust control features and/or functions as disclosed herein.

An advantage of using the second cover 5 is that the operating components and/or a part of the fluid flow path and/or the ion emitter need not be provided with the container 20. Instead, they may be provided in or on or as part of the cover. When the container is to be emptied, the first cover 100 may be removed and the second cover 5 used to close the container 20. The container 20 may then be brought to the end of the roadway to be emptied by municipal waste service without fear that personnel may damage the operating components and/or a portion of the fluid flow path and/or the ion emitter while the container 20 is being emptied.

Waste container cover with openable opening

The following is a general description of a lid for a waste container having an openable port, as well as other features described herein, which may be used alone or in combination with one or more embodiments disclosed herein, including one or more of the following: a waste container having a suction source, a cyclone barrel assembly having an expandable closure member, a dust control system for a waste container or surface treatment device, and a dust treatment system for a waste container or surface treatment device. The following description contains various features of a cover with an openable port for a waste container, which features may be used alone or in any combination or sub-combination.

According to this aspect, the cover 100 has a through hole or opening 110 extending between the upper surface 104 and the lower surface 102. The port 110 is operable between a closed position and an open position; in the closed position, particulate matter (e.g., dirt, dust, allergens, etc.) is prevented or preferably prevented from passing through the port 110. Preferably, the closure member of the port 110 is biased toward the closed position. It should be appreciated that the port 110 may occupy part or all of the lid 100 rather than the portion of the lid that is seated on the waste container 20. It will be appreciated that:

in the example shown, a number of movable members or flanges 120 are provided on the inner periphery of the port 110. Each movable flange 120 extends inwardly from an outer end 122 toward an inner end 124 located at or near the center of the through opening 110, and the members 120 are sized such that when the members are each substantially parallel to the cover 100, the through opening or through opening 110 is substantially or preferably entirely enclosed by the flange 120. Preferably, the flange 120 is flexible and may be resiliently biased toward a closed position, e.g., a position in which the member is substantially parallel to the remainder of the horizontal extension of the cover 100.

Alternatively, the movable member or flange may be of any other suitable configuration, including, for example, a configuration in which the member opens like a flapper ring or a sliding plate, or the like.

The movable member or flange 120 may be secured to the cover 100 using any suitable method, such as using one or more mechanical fasteners or adhesives, or the like. Alternatively, the cover 100 and the flange 120 may be integrally formed, for example, by injection molding.

The operation of the cover 100 to control dust, allergens and other particulate matter when evacuating the dirt collection area of the surface cleaning apparatus will now be discussed with reference to fig. 5 to 8.

In fig. 5, the cover 100 rests on and overlies the upper end 24 of the container 20. The flange 120 is substantially parallel to the cover 100 and mates with the opening 110 in the cover 100.

In fig. 6 and 8, the cyclone barrel assembly 30 for the surface cleaning apparatus is disposed in the through opening 110. The cyclone barrel assembly 30 includes an air handling member (in this case, a cyclone 31) and a dirt collection region 38 (for collecting particulate matter dislodged from entrainment of the dirty air stream by the cyclone 31). A handle 33 is provided at an upper end 34 of the cyclone barrel assembly. The cyclone barrel assembly 30 has an openable lower end 32, the lower end 32 being releasably secured by a door closure member 37. The door release switch or actuator 35 is located on the exterior of the trash can so that a user can operate the door release switch or actuator 35 when the cyclone barrel assembly 30 has been inserted into the port 110 in the empty position. The switch 35 is operatively connected to a door closure member 37. As shown, switch 35 is disposed adjacent handle 33 and is drivingly coupled to door closure member 37 by door actuator 39. It will be appreciated that the switch 35 may be operatively connected to the door closure member 37 by any other mechanically driven member, or may be electrically connected thereto or wirelessly operatively connected thereto.

In the illustrated embodiment, insertion of the cyclone barrel assembly 30 into the opening 110 causes the flange 120 to flex toward the lower end 22 of the container 20 by contact with the cyclone barrel assembly 30. At least the inner end 124 of each flange 120 is displaced into the interior space 28 of the container 20. Preferably, the flange 120 is configured such that at least a portion of each inner end 124 remains in contact with or in proximity to the outer sidewall 36 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30, thereby forming an at least substantially (if not complete) seal around the cyclone barrel assembly 30 to inhibit or prevent dust, allergens and other particulate matter from exiting the container 20. Optionally, if the port 110 is sized to be slightly larger in diameter than the cyclone barrel assembly or dirt collection region into which the port 110 is inserted, the flange 120 may contact a substantial portion of the periphery of the cyclone barrel assembly or dirt collection region.

In fig. 7, the openable lower end 32 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30 has been moved to an open position. For example, the door release switch 35 may have been flexed or rotated (e.g., by a user's thumb) causing the door closure member 37 to flex or rotate, whereby the openable lower end 32 is released and moved to an open position, e.g., due to gravity or one or more biasing members (not shown).

As discussed above with reference to fig. 6, the cover 100 and the substantial (if not complete) seal provided by the flange 120 around the outer sidewall 36 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30 may serve to inhibit or prevent dust, allergens and other particulate matter from exiting the container 20 during transfer of the particulates from the dirt collection region 38 to the interior space 28 of the container 20.

Figure 9 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the cover, generally referred to as 100', having an alternative design of the cyclone barrel assembly 30' located in the opening 110 of the cover 100 '. The embodiment of the cover 100 'shown in fig. 9 includes a cover actuator for actuating the door closure member of the cyclone barrel assembly when the cyclone barrel assembly has been positioned in the opening 110 of the cover 100'; otherwise, it is similar to the cover 100 shown in fig. 7.

In the exemplary cyclone barrel assembly 30' illustrated in fig. 9, a door release switch is not required near the upper end of the cyclone barrel assembly. Conversely, the door closure member 37' may be configured to move (e.g., bend or rotate) upon insertion of the cyclone barrel assembly into the opening 110, thereby releasing the openable lower end 32 into the enclosed or substantially enclosed space. Otherwise, the exemplary cyclone barrel assembly 30' shown in fig. 9 is similar to the cyclone barrel assembly 30 shown in fig. 7.

As shown in fig. 9, when the cyclone barrel assembly 30' is positioned in the through opening 110, the flange 120 is configured such that at least a portion of each inner end 124 remains in contact with or in proximity to the outer sidewall 36 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30, thereby forming an at least substantially (if not complete) seal around the cyclone barrel assembly 30 to inhibit or prevent dust, allergens and other particulate matter from exiting the container 20. However, in this illustrated configuration, the door closure member 37 'is located below the flange 120, which may inhibit or prevent a user from releasing the openable lower end 32 when the cyclone barrel assembly 30' is located in the port 110. To address this potential problem, the cover 100' is provided with a cover actuator 130.

The cover actuator 130 has an upper end 132, the upper end 132 being operable by a user from outside the waste container. As shown, the cover actuator 130 projects upwardly from the top surface 104 of the cover 100', for example, and the lower end 134 is located in the interior space 28 and below the lower surface 102 of the cover 100'. In the illustrated example, the cover actuator is pivotally secured to the cover 100' by a shaft or other pivot coupling 136. In this arrangement, the upper end 132 of the lid actuator 130 can be manipulated by a user to drivingly engage the lower end 134 and thereby actuate the door closure member 37 'of the cyclone barrel assembly 30' to release the openable lower end 32 when the barrel assembly is positioned in the port 110.

Alternatively, the lid actuator may be of any other suitable configuration, including for example a configuration in which the actuator is disposed in a side wall of the trash can and is capable of sliding inwardly to actuate the door closure member 37'.

It should be appreciated that in this and other aspects of the application, the cyclone barrel assembly 30 may be of any design and may be any type of air handling member, and need not be cyclonic. Further, instead of inserting a portion or all of the air handling member (e.g., the cyclone barrel assembly 30) into the port 110, the dirt collection region may include a dirt collection chamber, such as a cyclone chamber, external to the air handling member, and the dirt collection region may be removed from the remainder of the air handling member and a portion of the entirety thereof may be inserted into the port 110 so as to empty the dirt collection chamber.

Waste container with sub-atmospheric pressure mode

The following is a general description of a waste container having a suction source, as well as other features described herein, which may be used alone or in combination with one or more embodiments disclosed herein, including one or more of the following: a cover for a waste container having an openable aperture, a dust control system for a waste container or surface treatment device, and a dust treatment system for a waste container or surface treatment device. The following description contains various features of the waste container with the suction source, which may be used alone or in any combination or sub-combination.

According to this aspect, sub-atmospheric pressure is used to inhibit, substantially prevent or substantially prevent the dust plume of lighter dirt particles formed in ambient air when evacuating the dirt collection region. For example, the suction motor may be used to suck air from the interior of the waste container or from ambient air above or immediately above the waste container. For example, if the suction motor is in communication with the interior of the waste container, an air flow into the waste container will be created, or if the suction motor is in communication with the air above the waste container, an air flow into the one or more inlet ports will be created, which may partially or substantially entrain the lighter dust that would otherwise form a dust plume. Thus, a small dust plume may be formed or substantially no dust plume may be formed.

In the example shown in fig. 10-12, the suction source (collectively 220) is disposed on the waste container and may be permanently mounted on the waste container or may be removably mounted. In the latter case, the suction source may be removed before the waste bin is brought to the end of, for example, a driveway to empty it into a waste truck. By providing a suction source to draw air from the interior space of the waste container, some or all of the fine dust or other particles generated during emptying of the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus may be drawn into the interior of the waste container, which may allow for a more controlled transfer of the contents of the dirt collection region to the waste container. By enabling the suction source 220 to be removable, damage to the suction source 220 can be avoided when the trash can is emptied.

Suction source 220 includes a suction motor 206, suction motor 206 being drivingly connected to suction fan 204 for drawing air from interior space 28 of container 20 either directly or through optional air handling member 210. An optional pre-motor filter 202 is shown upstream of the suction motor 206, and an optional post-motor filter 208 is shown downstream of the suction motor 206 and upstream of the clean air outlet. It should be appreciated that one or both of these filters may not be provided in alternative embodiments.

In the illustrated construction, the upstream or inlet end of the suction source 220 is in airflow communication with the interior space 28 via an inlet 212 disposed in the sidewall 26 of the container 20. An optional air treatment member 210 is disposed downstream of the inlet 212. In the illustrated example, the air handling member 210 is a cyclonic air handling member and has a cyclone 211, the cyclone 211 being in fluid communication with the interior space 28 of the container 20 via an inlet 212. A dirt collection region 218 is provided to collect particles dislodged from entrainment of air drawn in through the inlet 212 by the cyclone 211. The air handling component 210 also has an outlet 214 in fluid communication with the suction fan 204. Alternatively or additionally, the air treatment member may include a bag, a filter, an additional cyclonic cleaning stage, and/or other air treatments known in the art.

In the example shown, the inlet 212 is disposed near the upper end 24 of the container 20. Alternatively, the inlet 212 may be disposed near the lower end 22 of the container 20, or between the upper end 24 and the lower end 22.

Also, in the example shown, a single inlet 212 is provided. Alternatively, two or more inlets 212 may be provided. In some embodiments, a manifold may be disposed between two or more inlets 212 and suction fan 204. For example, two or more inlets 212 may converge to an optional air treatment member 210 at or before the inlet.

The operation of the suction source 220 to control dust, allergens and other particulate matter when evacuating the dirt collection area of the surface cleaning apparatus will now be discussed with reference to fig. 11 and 12.

In fig. 11, a cyclone barrel assembly 30' for a surface cleaning apparatus is disposed above the port 110. For example, a user may remove such a dirt collection region and transport it to such a location. Alternatively, if the surface cleaning apparatus is a hand-held vacuum cleaner, the entire hand-held vacuum cleaner may be repositioned. The cyclone barrel assembly 30' includes a dirt collection region 38 for collecting particulate matter dislodged from entrainment of the dirty air stream by the air handling member, in this case the cyclone 31.

In fig. 12, the openable lower end 32 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30' has been moved to an open position. For example, the user may have opened the dirt collection region, and it is expected that gravity will transfer at least a substantial portion of the contents of the dirt collection region to the interior of the waste container. For example, the door closure member 37 'may have been bent or rotated (e.g., by a user's thumb) whereby the openable lower end 32 is released and moved to an open position, e.g., due to gravity or one or more biasing members (not shown).

As previously described, opening the dirt collection region 38 for emptying typically results in a cloud or plume of fine dust or other particles rising outwardly from the opening of the dirt collection region and/or from the container 20 into which the dirt collection region is being emptied. Particles in such plumes or clouds may disperse during the evacuation process, resulting in incomplete transfer from the dirt collection region 38 to the interior 28 of the waste container 20. This may be considered undesirable by the user, particularly if the plume or cloud contains dust or other allergens to which the user is sensitive.

To address this potential problem, in fig. 12, suction motor 206 is actuated to drive suction fan 204, creating an air flow from interior space 28 of container 20 through inlet 212 and optionally through air handling member 210 and through post-motor filter 208 to a region outside of container 20. Advantageously, this may result in some or all of any particles dispersed in the plume or cloud created by the opening of the dirt collection region 38 being drawn into the interior space 28 of the container 20 and/or into the air handling member 210. Accordingly, the amount of dust, allergens, or other fine particulate matter that is "lost" (i.e., not transferred to the container 20 or the air handling member 210) when the dirt collection region 38 is emptied into the container 20 may be reduced or eliminated.

Fig. 13A and 13B illustrate an alternative embodiment in which the suction source 220 is disposed on the first or inner lid body 100 for the waste container 20. In the illustrated example, the suction source 220 includes a suction motor 206, the suction motor 206 being drivingly connected to the suction fan 204 for drawing air from the inlet 112 located near the periphery of the port 110 in the cover 100. Pre-motor filter 202 and post-motor filter 208 are also shown upstream and downstream of suction motor 206, respectively, but it should be appreciated that one or both of these filters may not be provided in alternative embodiments.

In fig. 13A, the second or upper cover 5 is also shown in the removed position. The upper cover 5 is configured to rest on the upper surface 104 of the cover 100 or to engage with the upper surface 104 of the cover 100 such that the second cover 5 covers all or substantially all of the through openings 110.

In the illustrated construction, an inlet 112 is provided on the inner surface of the through opening 110 between the upper surface 104 and the lower surface 102 of the cover 100. An optional air treatment member 210 is disposed downstream of the inlet 112. In the example shown, the air handling member 210 includes a vacuum bag 213 for collecting particles from a dirty air stream into the bag, as is known in the art. The air handling member 210 is in fluid communication with the conduit 115, the conduit 115 being located downstream of the annular manifold 114 disposed about the port 110. The downstream portion of the inlet 112 is connected to the manifold 114, providing a fluid flow path from the inlet 112 to the air treatment member 210. The air handling component 210 also has an outlet 214 in fluid communication with the suction fan 204. Alternatively, the air treatment member may include a cyclone, a filter, an additional cyclone cleaning stage, and/or other air treatments known in the art.

In the example shown, the inlet 112 is provided on an inner surface of the through opening 110. Alternatively, the inlet 112 may be provided on the lower surface 102 of the cover 100, or on the upper surface 104, and may optionally extend above the upper surface 104.

Also, in the example shown, two inlets 112 are provided. Alternatively, three or more inlets 112 may be provided, or a single inlet 112 may be provided.

Also, in the example shown, an annular manifold 114 is disposed between the inlet 112 and the air handling member 210. Alternatively, each inlet 112 may be provided with a dedicated conduit to access the optional air treatment member 210.

Further, as shown in fig. 13B, the suction source 200 is provided on the cover 100. For example, the second cover 5 and container 20 (as shown in fig. 13A) may be purchased or otherwise obtained in a kit, and the first or inner cover 110 shown in fig. 13B may be obtained as an option or modification (e.g., obtained separately) to enable the suction source to more controllably transfer the contents of the dirt collection region to the waste container. The suction source 200 may be secured to the cover 100 in any suitable manner. For example, the suction source 200 and/or optional air treatment member 210 may be removably mounted to the cover 100, e.g., the upper end of the conduit 115 may be threaded to provide rotational engagement and disengagement with corresponding threads in the cover 100. Alternatively, the suction source 200 and/or optional air treatment member 210 may be non-removably mounted to (e.g., integrally formed with) the cover 100.

Also, in the illustrated example, the suction source 200 is provided on the cover 100. Alternatively, the suction source 200 may be disposed outside the container 20. Suction source 200 may be secured to container 20 in any suitable manner. For example, the suction source 200 and/or optional air treatment member 210 may be removably mounted to the container 20. Alternatively, the suction source 200 and/or optional air treatment member 210 may be non-removably mounted to (e.g., integrally formed with) the container 20.

Also, in the example shown, the suction source 200 is configured to be located outside of the container 20. Alternatively, the suction source 200 and/or optional air treatment member 210 may be configured to be located (removably or non-removably) inside the container 20.

It should be appreciated that the cover may include the openable ports of the previously discussed aspects and may draw air for the substantially sealed interior 28 of the container 20.

Alternatively or additionally, it will be appreciated that the suction source may be actuated before, at or after the dirt collection region is opened. For example, if the port 110 is provided with a flange, the suction source may be actuated when the flange begins to flex when the port is opened. Alternatively, a sensor (e.g., an Infrared (IR) sensor) may be provided to activate the suction source when the dirt collection region is proximate to the container 20 or enters the container 20.

Cyclone barrel assembly with deployable closure member

The following is a general description of a cyclone barrel assembly with an expandable closure member, as well as other features described herein, which may be used alone or in combination with one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein, including one or more of the following: a cover for a waste container having an openable aperture, a dust control system for a waste container or surface treatment device, a dust treatment system for a waste container or surface treatment device, and a waste container having a suction source. The following description includes various features of the cyclone barrel assembly with the expandable closure member, which may be used alone or in any combination or sub-combination.

According to this aspect, a flexible closure member or shroud is provided to form a closed or substantially closed space between the interior of the container 20 and the openable portion of the dirt collection region. Thus, when the dirt collection region is opened, even finer dirt produces a plume or cloud which may be contained or substantially contained therein, thereby reducing or preventing loss of finer particulate matter upon emptying the dirt collection region.

As shown in fig. 14-17, a flexible closure member 300 is shown associated with a cyclone barrel assembly for a surface cleaning apparatus. In the example shown in fig. 14 and 17, the cyclone barrel assembly 30' includes an air handling member (in this case, cyclone 31) and a dirt collection region 38 (for collecting particulate matter dislodged from entrainment of the dirty air stream by the cyclone 31). A handle 33 is provided at an upper end 34 of the cyclone barrel assembly. The cyclone barrel assembly 30 'has an openable lower end 32, the lower end 32 being releasably secured by a door closure member 37'. It should be appreciated that, as previously described, any air handling member and openable dirt collection region known in the art of surface cleaning may be used.

As shown, the flexible closure member 300 is mounted on or secured to the outer sidewall 36 (i.e., the outer surface) of the cyclone barrel assembly 30'. In the example shown, a first or upper end 304 is secured to the side wall 36. An optional shroud 308 is disposed about the sidewall 36. The shroud 308 may help retain or collect the flexible closure member 300 when the shroud 308 is in the retracted position. It should be appreciated that the flexible closure member 300 may be permanently mounted or removably mounted to any portion of the dirt collection region, the air treatment member, or the surface cleaning apparatus.

The flexible closure member 300 comprises a pliable flexible material and may be provided as a single piece structure (e.g., having a ring shape or a conical shape), or alternatively as two or more sheets of material.

Preferably, the flexible closure member 300 comprises at least one of a plastic material (e.g., polyethylene film, bio-plastic film, etc.) and a natural fabric (e.g., cotton, hemp, etc.). In one or more preferred embodiments, the flexible closure member 300 can be made of a substantially or completely impermeable material.

The flexible closure member 300 is preferably transparent or translucent, but it should be appreciated that all or a portion of the flexible closure member 300 may be opaque.

The flexible closure member 300 is preferably of sufficient length to allow a user to hold, for example, the bucket assembly 30' when upright when the flexible closure member is secured to the container 20 and when the dirt collection region is emptied.

As shown in fig. 15, a securing member 306 may be disposed at or near the second or lower end 302 of the flexible closure member 300. The securing member 306 is configured to help retain the lower end 302 of the flexible closure member 300 in a position where the flexible closure member surrounds the upper end 24 of the waste container 20.

In a preferred embodiment, the securing member 306 may comprise an elongated resilient member that extends around all or a portion of the circumference of the lower end 302 of the flexible closure member 300. In such an arrangement, the securing member 306 may help provide a partial or complete seal between the lower end 302 of the flexible closure member 300 and the side wall 26 of the waste container 20. Preferably, such resilient members are sufficiently resilient to extend from a length approximately equal to the circumference of the outer periphery of the cyclone barrel assembly to a length approximately equal to the circumference of the outer periphery of the waste container 20 or cover 100.

In another preferred embodiment, the securing member 306 may comprise a drawstring that extends around all or a portion of the circumference of the lower end 302 of the flexible closure member 300. Preferably, such a drawstring may extend to a length approximately equal to the circumference of the outer periphery of the waste container 20 or cover 100 and retract to a second length approximately equal to the circumference of the outer periphery of the cyclone barrel assembly.

For example, in a retracted position (not shown), the lower end 302 of the flexible closure member 300 may gather or otherwise be positioned below the shroud 308 such that all or substantially all of the flexible closure member 300 is positioned between the shroud 308 and the sidewall 36. Preferably, the securing member 306 may be used to secure the lower end 302 to the cyclone barrel assembly (e.g., to the sidewall 36) in such a position.

In another preferred embodiment, the flexible closure member 300 itself may be sufficiently resilient or elastic such that the securing member 306 is not required.

Alternatively or additionally, the container 20 may be provided with a locking member to which the lower end of the flexible closure member 300 is releasably attached. For example, the lower end of the flexible closure member 300 and the trash can may have male and female hook and loop fasteners that are interengageable.

The operation of the flexible closure member 300 in controlling dust, allergens and other particulate matter when evacuating the dirt collection area of the surface cleaning apparatus will now be discussed with reference to fig. 15 and 16.

In fig. 15, the cyclone barrel assembly 30 for the surface cleaning apparatus is disposed above the through opening 110 of the container 20 or may be above the open top of the container 20. For example, a user may remove the cyclone barrel assembly and transport it to such a location. The cyclone barrel assembly 30 includes a dirt collection region 38 for collecting particulate matter dislodged from entrainment of the dirty air stream by the air handling member, in this case the cyclone 31.

Also, in fig. 15, the flexible closure member 300 has been moved to a deployed position wherein the lower end 302 is positioned about the upper portion 24 of the container 20 and is optionally held in such position by optional securing members 306. Accordingly, a closed space 310 (i.e., a closed space) defined by the flexible closure member 300 extends between the upper end 304 of the flexible closure member 300 and the interior space 28 included in the container 20. Notably, the openable lower end 32 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30 is positioned within the enclosed space 310.

In fig. 16, the openable lower end 32 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30 has been moved to an open position. For example, the user may have opened the dirt collection region, and it is expected that gravity will transfer at least a substantial portion of the contents of the dirt collection region to the interior of the waste container. For example, the door release switch 35 may have been flexed or rotated (e.g., by a user's thumb) causing the door closure member 37 to flex or rotate, whereby the openable lower end 32 is released and moved to an open position, e.g., due to gravity or one or more biasing members (not shown).

Advantageously, in the configuration shown in fig. 16, the flexible closure member 300 may direct some or all of any particles dispersed in the plume or cloud with the opening of the dirt collection region 38 into the interior space 28 of the container 20. Accordingly, the amount of dust, allergens, or other fine particulate matter that disperses when the dirt collection region 38 is emptied into the receptacle 20 may be reduced or eliminated.

As previously described, the actuator that opens the dirt collection region may be positioned such that it is actuated when the flexible closure member is deployed, e.g., it is in a position outside of the enclosed space 310. Thus, as shown in fig. 15 and 16, the cyclone barrel assembly 30 is provided with a door release switch 35 (located near the handle 33), the door release switch 35 being operatively coupled to the door closure member 37 by a door actuator 39. In such a configuration (i.e., when the flexible closure member 300 is in the deployed position, the actuator 35 for the openable door 32 is outside of the enclosed space 310), a user may relatively simply open the openable door 32. Any of the mechanisms discussed herein may alternatively be used.

Figure 17 shows an alternative embodiment of the waste container 20 with an alternative design of the cyclone barrel assembly 30'. In the exemplary cyclone barrel assembly 30' shown in fig. 17, a door release switch is not provided near the upper end of the cyclone barrel assembly. Instead, the door closure member 37' is configured to directly bend or rotate, thereby releasing the openable lower end 32.

As shown in fig. 17, when the lower end 32 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30 'is positioned in the interior space 28 of the container 20 and the flexible closure member 300 has been deployed about the upper end 24 of the container 20, the door closure member 37' is positioned in the interior space 310 provided by the flexible closure member 300. In the illustrated configuration, the flexible closure member 300 may inhibit or prevent the user from releasing the openable lower end 32. To address this potential problem, the container 20 is provided with a release actuator 130'.

The release actuator 130' has a first portion 132' projecting generally outwardly from the side wall 26 of the container 20 and a second portion 134' located in the interior space 28. In the example shown, the release actuator 130' is located in an annular opening in the sidewall 26 such that the actuator can translate inwardly or outwardly relative to the container 20. Preferably, a spring 138 or other biasing member is provided to bias the release actuator 130' toward a position wherein the second portion 134' remains in the interior space 28 and the first portion 132' remains outside of the container 20. In this arrangement, the first portion 132' of the actuator 130' can be manipulated by a user to extend the second portion 134' inwardly into driving engagement and thereby actuate the door closure member 37' of the cyclone barrel assembly 30' to release the openable lower end 32 when the flexible closure member 300 is in the deployed position. It should be appreciated that the release actuator 130' may have any configuration and may be mounted to be rotatable, translatable or otherwise movable. Also, the release actuator 130 'may be in wireless communication with the door closure member 37'.

It should be appreciated that any embodiment of this aspect may be advantageously used with embodiments that generate sub-atmospheric pressure in interior space 28 and/or interior space 310.

Dust control and/or treatment for waste containers or surface treatment devices

The following is a general description of dust control and dust handling systems for waste containers or surface treatment devices, as well as other features described herein, which may be used alone or in combination with one or more embodiments disclosed herein, including one or more of the following: a cover for a waste container having an openable vent, a waste container having a suction source, a cyclone barrel assembly having an expandable closure member, and a dirt collection region of a surface treatment apparatus having a sub-atmospheric pressure mode. The following description contains various features of the dust control and dust handling system, which may be used alone or in any combination or sub-combination.

According to this aspect, a dust control system is provided for selectively directing a dust control agent to a region in and/or above the interior space of a waste container, such as below a dirt evacuation outlet of a dirt collection region of a surface treatment apparatus. By providing a dust control agent above the interior space of the container, dispersion of dust, allergens or other fine particulate matter into the air may be inhibited or prevented, for example, as particulate matter is transferred from the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus to the waste container, which may result in a more controlled transfer of the contents of the dirt collection region to the waste container. Alternatively or additionally, the dust control system may be arranged to selectively direct the dust control agent to the interior space of the waste container.

Alternatively or additionally, according to this aspect, a dust handling system is provided for selectively directing a dust handling agent to, for example, an interior space of a waste container and/or a dirt collection region and/or an air handling member (e.g., a cyclone chamber). Dust, dirt and other waste collected in the waste container may lead to the growth of undesirable organisms. These organisms may negatively impact the air quality around the container 20. Accordingly, the waste container 20 may include one or more treatment applicators that provide one or more treatment agents (e.g., bactericides, disinfectants, and/or deodorants) in the interior space 28 to reduce or eliminate biological and/or other sources of odor in the interior space of the container. The sterilant may be any element or radiation that may reduce or inhibit the growth of organisms in interior space 28, or any element or radiation that is harmful or lethal to organisms that may grow in interior space 28. Examples include Ultraviolet (UV) lightOzone (O) ₃ ) And hydrogen peroxide (H) ₂ O ₂ ). The advantage of this design is that it can reduce or eliminate potential harmful organisms (e.g. allergens) or odors emanating from collected waste.

As shown in fig. 18 and 19, the dust control system includes a plurality of nozzles 410 for dispersing a liquid, such as water, into the air in the form of, for example, a mist or other dispersion. A nozzle 410 may be provided on the inner surface of the through opening 110 between the upper surface 104 and the lower surface 102 of the cover 100. As shown in fig. 19, nozzle 410 is in fluid communication with fluid pump 430 via conduit 422, and fluid pump 430 itself is in fluid communication with reservoir 420. The reservoir 420 is configured to store a liquid (e.g., water) to be dispersed.

It should be appreciated that the liquid, such as water, may be dispersed using any method known in the art, such as an ultrasonic atomizer or the like.

In the example shown, the nozzle 410 is disposed on an inner surface of the through-opening 110. Alternatively or additionally, the nozzle 410 may be provided on the upper surface 104 of the cover 100, or on the lower surface 102, or on the container 20 itself.

Also, in the example shown, four nozzles 410 are provided. Alternatively, five or more nozzles 410 may be provided, or three, two, or a single nozzle 410 may be provided.

Also, in the example shown, nozzles 410 are connected in series using conduits 422. Alternatively, each nozzle 410 may be provided with a dedicated conduit to lead to the pump 430.

It should be appreciated that the dust control system can be actuated in a variety of ways, and any of the methods discussed herein for actuating the suction motor to generate sub-atmospheric pressure can be used.

For example, in the configuration shown in fig. 18, a first dust control system actuator 404 (in this example, a depressible button) is provided on the upper surface 104 of the cover 100. Pump 430 may be configured to direct fluid from reservoir 420 to nozzle 410 in response to actuator 404 being depressed. Alternatively, pump 430 may be configured to direct fluid to nozzle 410 after a predetermined delay period following the depression of button 404.

Alternatively or additionally, a second dust control system actuator 402, such as a sensor of an Infrared (IR) sensor, may be provided on an inner surface of the through opening 110, e.g. between the upper surface 104 and the lower surface 102 of the cover 100. IR sensor 402 is preferably configured to detect when an object (e.g., a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus) is located in port 110. Pump 430 may be configured to direct fluid from reservoir 420 to nozzle 410 in response to actuator 402 determining that an object is located in port 110. Alternatively, pump 430 may be configured to direct fluid to nozzle 410 after a predetermined delay period after sensor 402 detects an object.

In the configuration shown in fig. 18 and 19, the dust control system includes one or more nozzles for dispersing water or other liquid into the air in the form of a mist or other dispersion. Alternatively or additionally, the dust control system may include one or more ion emitters for selectively dispersing negative ions (and/or positive ions) into the air. In operation, contacting the particulate matter with the liquid will increase the weight of the particulate matter, including some or all of the finer particulate matter. This will increase the weight of the particulate matter, thereby reducing the likelihood of plume or cloud formation. Similarly, particulate matter may become electrically charged as it passes through a surface cleaning device (e.g., a cyclone chamber). Exposing the particulate matter to oppositely charged ions will reduce the charge state of the particulate matter, including some or all of the finer particulate matter. This will reduce the propensity for particulate matter to disperse, thereby reducing the likelihood of plume or smoke formation.

In the configuration shown in fig. 20 and 21, the dust control system further includes a plurality of ion emitters 460 for applying a negative (and/or positive) charge. For example, an emitter 460 is provided on the inner surface of the opening 110 between the upper surface 104 and the lower surface 102 of the cover 100. As shown in fig. 20, the transmitter 460 is coupled to, for example, a power supply and control electronics 450 for providing a voltage to apply the charge.

In the example shown, the emitter 460 is disposed on an inner surface of the port 110. Alternatively or additionally, the emitter 460 may be provided on the upper surface 104 of the cover 100, or on the lower surface 102, or on the container 20 itself.

Also, in the example shown, a set of six transmitters 460 is provided. It should be appreciated that a greater or lesser number of sets of more or fewer transmitters 460 may be provided in alternative embodiments.

The operation of the dust control system in controlling dust, allergens and other particulate matter when evacuating the dirt collection area of the surface cleaning apparatus will now be discussed with reference to fig. 20 and 21.

In fig. 20, a cyclone barrel assembly 30 for a surface cleaning apparatus is disposed above a port 110. For example, a user may remove such a dirt collection region and transport it to such a location. The cyclone barrel assembly 30 includes a dirt collection region 38 for collecting particulate matter dislodged from entrainment of the dirty air stream by the air handling member, in this case the cyclone 31.

In fig. 21, the openable lower end 32 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30 has been moved to an open position. For example, the user may have opened the dirt collection region, and it is expected that gravity will transfer at least a substantial portion of the contents of the dirt collection region to the interior of the waste container. For example, the door release switch 35 may have been flexed or rotated (e.g., by a user's thumb) causing the door closure member 37 to flex or rotate, whereby the openable lower end 32 is released and moved to an open position, e.g., due to gravity or one or more biasing members (not shown).

To address this potential problem, in fig. 21, pump 430 is actuated to direct a liquid (e.g., water) to nozzle 410, resulting in a spray or mist of water particles being dispersed in the area above port 110 (i.e., in the illustrated example, the area or region below the outlet of dirt collection region 38). Advantageously, this may result in some or all of any particles dispersed in the plume or cloud created by the opening of the dirt collection region 38 being "wetted" by the dispersed water droplets and then introduced into the interior space 28 of the container 20 by gravity.

Also, in fig. 21, the control electronics 450 are actuated to cause the ion emitter 460 to emit, for example, negatively charged particles, resulting in negative ions being dispersed in the area above the port 110. Advantageously, this may result in some or all of the charged particulate matter being neutralized. This results in less tendency for the particulate matter to disperse after the dirt collection region 38 is opened, resulting in less likelihood of, or less plume formation.

Thus, the amount of dust, allergens, or other fine particulate matter that is "lost" (i.e., not transferred to the container 20) when the dirt collection region 38 is emptied into the container 20 may be reduced or eliminated.

In the examples shown in fig. 18-21, a dust control system associated with a waste container and/or a lid for a waste container is provided. Alternatively or additionally, a dust control system associated with the surface cleaning apparatus or a portion thereof (e.g., an air handling member (which may be described as a dirt separating member)) and/or a dirt collection region may be provided. Thus, the dust control system may be configured to selectively direct the dust control agent to the interior space of the dirt collection region and/or to a region below the openable portion of the dirt collection region.

As shown in fig. 22-24, the dust control system includes a plurality of nozzles 410 for dispersing a liquid, such as water, into the air in the form of a mist or other dispersion. A nozzle 410 is provided on the outer surface of the sidewall 36 between the upper and lower ends 34, 102 of the barrel assembly 30. As shown in fig. 23, the nozzle 410 is in fluid communication with the reservoir 420. The reservoir 420 is configured to store a liquid (e.g., water) to be dispersed.

In the example shown, four nozzles 410 are shown. Alternatively, five or more nozzles 410 may be provided, or three, two, or a single nozzle 410 may be provided.

The operation of the dust control system in controlling dust, allergens and other particulate matter when evacuating the dirt collection area of the surface cleaning apparatus will now be discussed with reference to fig. 23 and 24.

In fig. 23, the openable end or door 32 for the dirt collection region 38 is in a closed position and particulate matter dislodged from entrainment of the dirty airflow by the air handling member (in this case, the cyclone 31) is collected in the dirt collection region 38.

In fig. 24, the openable lower end 32 has been moved to the open position. For example, the user may have opened the dirt collection region, and it is expected that gravity will transfer at least a substantial portion of the contents of the dirt collection region to the interior of, for example, a waste container. For example, the door closure member 37 'may have been bent or rotated (e.g., by a user's thumb) whereby the openable lower end 32 is released and moved to an open position, e.g., due to gravity or one or more biasing members (not shown).

Also, in fig. 24, the pump is actuated to direct liquid (e.g., water) to the nozzle 410, resulting in a spray or mist of water particles being dispersed in the area surrounding the opening of the dirt collection region 38. As previously mentioned, opening the dirt collection region 38 for evacuation typically results in a cloud or plume of fine dust or other particles rising outwardly from the opening of the dirt collection region. Advantageously, the dispersion of water particles in the area surrounding the opening of the dirt collection region 38 may cause some or all of any particles dispersed in the plume or cloud created by the opening of the dirt collection region 38 to be "wetted" by the dispersed water droplets and then introduced by gravity into the interior space 28 of, for example, a waste container.

Accordingly, the amount of dust, allergens, or other fine particulate matter that disperses into the air when the dirt collection region 38 is evacuated may be reduced or eliminated.

The dust control system provided with the cyclone barrel assembly may be actuated in a variety of ways and may be actuated using any of the actuation methods discussed herein. For example, a manual dust control system actuator, such as a depressible button, may be provided. The fluid pump may be configured to direct fluid from the reservoir 420 to the nozzle 410 in response to such actuator being depressed. Alternatively, it may be actuated by the opening of the dirt collection region.

For example, in the configuration shown in fig. 25, at least a portion of the bellows pump 430 is located between the door closure member 37' and the sidewall 36 of the cyclone barrel assembly. In this arrangement, the pump 430 may be actuated substantially simultaneously with the bending or rotation of the door closure member 37' (e.g., by the thumb of the user) so that the spray or mist of water particles is dispersed from the nozzle 410 substantially simultaneously with the openable lower end 32 opening. In other words, in such an arrangement, pump 430 is configured to direct fluid from reservoir 420 to nozzle 410 in response to door closure member 37' being actuated.

Alternatively, in the configuration shown in fig. 26, a door release switch 35 disposed near handle 33 is operatively coupled to door closure member 37 by a door actuator 39. In this example, the piston pump 430 is disposed at the base of the door actuator 39 such that downward travel of the door actuator 39 results in a spray or mist of water particles being dispersed from the nozzle 410. Also, a second door actuator 371 is provided at the base of the cylinder of the piston pump 430. In this configuration, further downward travel of the door actuator 39 (i.e., after the pump 430 is actuated) results in contact with the second door actuator 371 to cause it to travel downward, resulting in bending of the door closure member 37, thereby releasing the openable lower end 32. In other words, in such an arrangement, pump 430 is configured to direct fluid from reservoir 420 to nozzle 410 prior to door closure member 37' being actuated. Or in other words, in such an arrangement, the openable lower end 32 is configured to automatically open after the spray or mist of water particles has been dispersed from the nozzle 410.

Fig. 27 and 28 illustrate the use of the dust-treating agent.

As shown in fig. 27, the dust treatment system includes a UV light emitter 510 and an ozone gas generator 520, the UV light emitter 510 selectively emitting UV light into the interior space 28 of the container 20, and the ozone gas generator 520 selectively emitting ozone gas into the interior space 28 of the container 20. It should be appreciated that only one processing member may be used.

In some embodiments, a manual actuator (e.g., a depressible button) may be provided to selectively actuate the dust handling system to provide one or more treatment agents (e.g., UV light, ozone gas) into the interior space 28 of the container 20. For example, the UV light emitter 510 may be configured to emit UV light for a preset period of time (e.g., 90 seconds) in response to a press of a manual actuator. Similarly, ozone gas generator 520 may be configured to emit ozone gas for a preset period of time (e.g., 90 seconds) in response to depression of a manual actuator. Alternatively or additionally, the dust handling system may be configured to provide one or more treatment agents (e.g., UV light, ozone gas) into the interior space 28 of the container 20 at preset intervals (e.g., every 24 hours) without manual operation, and/or at a preset time upon emptying the dirt collection region, and/or after emptying the dirt collection region into the waste container.

Ozone gas can effectively decontaminate and/or deodorize waste collected in the container 20. However, ozone gas may also be harmful if inhaled by humans or other animals. To minimize one or more risks associated with emitting ozone gas, some embodiments including ozone gas generator 520 may also include ozone-destroying materials for decomposing some or all of the emitted ozone.

For example, as shown in fig. 27, a suction source 220 may be provided that includes a suction motor 206, the suction motor 206 being drivingly connected to the suction fan 204 for drawing air (including emitted ozone) from the interior space 28 of the container 20 through the inlet 212 and through the ozone-destroying material 530. Ozone-destroying material 530 can be any material capable of removing ozone gas from a gas stream by adsorption or conversion to one or more other molecules. Examples include activated carbon or ozone (O) ₃ ) Conversion to oxygen (O) ₂ ) Ozone catalyst of (a). The advantage of this design is that the discharge into the interior space 28 can be removed before the air flow is discharged from the container 20 to be treatedOzone gas is supplied to some or all of the organisms in vessel 20. This may allow container 20 including ozone gas generator 520 to be safely used in, for example, a residential space.

In the example shown in fig. 27, a dust handling system associated with a waste container and/or a lid for a waste container is provided. Alternatively, a dust handling system associated with an air handling component (such as a cyclone barrel assembly) may be provided. As shown in fig. 28, the cyclone barrel assembly 30 for the surface cleaning apparatus has a dust treatment system for selectively introducing a dust treating agent into a dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus. By providing one or more bactericides (e.g., ultraviolet (UV), ozone (O) ₃ ) And hydrogen peroxide (H) ₂ O ₂ ) Into the dirt collection region, the growth of undesirable organisms present in dust, dirt and/or other waste collected in the dirt collection region may be reduced or eliminated.

In the configuration shown in fig. 28, the dust handling system includes a UV light emitter 510 and an ozone gas generator 520, the UV light emitter 510 emitting UV light into the dirt collection region 38 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30, the ozone gas generator 520 emitting ozone gas into the dirt collection region 38. It should be appreciated that only one processing member may be used.

In some embodiments, a manual actuator (e.g., a depressible button) may be provided to selectively actuate the dust handling system to provide one or more treatment agents (e.g., UV light, ozone gas) into the dust collection region 38 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30. For example, the UV light emitter 510 may be configured to emit UV light for a preset period of time (e.g., 90 seconds) in response to a press of a manual actuator. Similarly, ozone gas generator 520 may be configured to emit ozone gas for a preset period of time (e.g., 90 seconds) in response to depression of a manual actuator. Alternatively or additionally, the dust handling system may be configured to provide one or more treatment agents into the interior space 28 of the container 20 at preset intervals (e.g., every 24 hours) without manual actuation. Alternatively or additionally, the dust handling system may be configured to provide one or more treatment agents into the interior space 28 of the container 20 after a predetermined number of uses of the surface cleaning apparatus (e.g., after 5 on/off cycles of the main suction motor of the surface cleaning apparatus). Alternatively or additionally, the dust handling system may be configured to provide one or more treatment agents into the interior space 28 of the container 20 after emptying the dirt collection region (e.g., closed in response to the openable door 32).

To minimize one or more risks associated with exhausting ozone gas, the example shown in fig. 28 includes a suction source 220, the suction source 220 including a suction motor 206 drivingly connected to a suction fan 204 for drawing air (including emitted ozone) from the dirt collection region 38 through an inlet 532 and through an ozone-destroying material 530. As described above, ozone-destroying material 530 can be any material capable of removing ozone gas from a gas stream by adsorption or conversion to one or more other molecules. Examples include activated carbon or ozone (O) ₃ ) Conversion to oxygen (O) ₂ ) Ozone catalyst of (a). An advantage of this design is that some or all of the ozone gas discharged into the dirt collection region 38 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30 can be drawn through the ozone destroying material before being discharged into the ambient atmosphere (e.g., by opening the openable door 32). This may allow the cyclone barrel assembly 30 including the ozone gas generator 520 to be safely used in, for example, a residential space.

Subatmospheric pressure mode of dirt collection area for surface treatment device

The following is a general description of a soil collection region of a surface treatment apparatus having a sub-atmospheric mode, as well as other features described herein, which may be used alone or in combination with one or more embodiments disclosed herein, including one or more of the following: a cover for a waste container having an openable vent, a waste container having a suction source, a cyclone barrel assembly having an expandable closure member, a dust control system for a waste container or surface treatment device, and a dust treatment system for a waste container or surface treatment device. The following description contains various features of the soil collection region of the surface treatment apparatus having a sub-atmospheric pressure mode, which may be used alone or in any combination or sub-combination.

According to this aspect, sub-atmospheric pressure is provided in the air treatment member or a portion thereof (e.g., the dirt collection region) to draw finer particulate matter into the surface cleaning apparatus. This has the advantage that the amount of release of finer particulate matter can be reduced when the dirt collection region is opened, and thus a smaller plume can be formed when the dirt collection region is emptied.

It will be appreciated that when the surface cleaning apparatus is used to clean a surface (i.e. cleaning mode), a suction motor (which may be referred to as a main suction motor) for drawing air from the dirty air inlet may generate sub-atmospheric pressure. In this case, the main suction motor may be operated at a lower power level to produce a reduced suction level during the evacuation operation (i.e., evacuation mode). For example, the main suction motor may be configured to generate sufficient suction to generate an air flow of 0.1CFM to 1.5CFM per square inch of opening area during the evacuation mode, preferably 0.25CFM to 1.25CFM per square inch of opening area during the evacuation mode, more preferably 0.50CFM to 1.00CFM per square inch of opening area during the evacuation mode. Alternatively or additionally, during the evacuation mode, dilution air may be drawn from outside the air handling component, for example by opening a vent between the main suction motor and the air handling component. The advantage of the latter method is that the suction motor can be operated at the same power level during cleaning and evacuation.

Alternatively or additionally, during the evacuation mode, sub-atmospheric pressure may be generated by an alternative suction motor (i.e., evacuation mode suction motor) used during cleaning of the cyclone. The advantage of this design is that a smaller and thus lighter suction motor and fan assembly can be used. Such a suction motor may be removed with a dirt collection region (e.g., a removable cyclone barrel assembly or a portion of the dirt collection region) to allow removable dirt collection to be used in connection with this aspect.

It will be appreciated that whichever suction motor is used, it may be actuated to empty before, during or after the dirt collection region is opened. For example, one or more sensors may be provided that are configured to detect when to open the openable door of the dirt collection region to automatically actuate any suction motor to be used during the evacuation mode in response to the openable door being opened.

It should also be appreciated that air drawn from the air handling component during the purging operation (i.e., purging mode) may also be treated to remove particulate matter. Any air handling component may be used. For example, air may be drawn through a cyclone and/or an alternative or evacuation mode pre-motor filter.

As shown in fig. 29 to 32, a cyclone barrel assembly (main air handling member) is schematically shown, which is connected to the suction system of the surface cleaning apparatus. In the illustrated schematic, the cyclone barrel assembly 30 includes a cyclone 31 and a dirt collection region 38, the dirt collection region 38 communicating with the cyclone 31 through a cyclone outlet 633 for collecting particulate matter dislodged from entrainment of the dirty air stream by the cyclone 31. The cyclone barrel assembly 30 has an openable lower end 32, the lower end 32 being releasably secured by a door closure member 37'. It should be appreciated that any air handling component may be used as the primary air handling component.

Referring to fig. 29, in operation, dirty air (e.g., an air stream entrained with particulate matter) enters the dirty air inlet 602 of the surface cleaning apparatus and is drawn through the duct 610 to the cyclonic dirty air inlet 632. After circulating in the cyclone 31 so as to be separated from particles entrained therein, the air is drawn through the cyclone air outlet 634, through the conduit 620 by the suction fan 204 drivingly connected to the main suction motor 206, and discharged from the cleaning air outlet 604 of the surface cleaning apparatus. In the example shown, an optional primary or first pre-motor filter 202 and an optional primary or first post-motor filter 208 are also shown upstream and downstream, respectively, of the suction motor 206, although it should be appreciated that one or both of these filters may not be provided in alternative embodiments. Any known surface cleaning apparatus having any known cyclone assembly or other air handling member may be used.

As previously mentioned, opening the dirt collection region 38 for evacuation typically results in a cloud or plume of fine dust or other particles rising outwardly from the opening of the dirt collection region. Particles in such plumes or clouds may disperse during the evacuation process, resulting in incomplete transfer from the dirt collection region 38 to, for example, a waste container. This may be considered undesirable by the user, particularly if the plume or cloud contains dust or other allergens to which the user is sensitive.

As shown in fig. 29 and 30, the main suction motor used during the cleaning operation is used to create sub-atmospheric pressure during evacuation of the dirt collection region (e.g., when the openable door is in the open position). The suction motor may be connected by any method to suction air from the cyclone, and a cyclone air outlet may be used. As shown, a bypass duct 612 and valves 640a, 640b are provided, the bypass duct 612 serving as a backup downstream air flow path. For example, in the configuration shown in fig. 30, the primary suction fan 204 and primary suction motor 206 are shown for drawing air from the cyclonic air inlet 632 via conduit 612, causing airflow from the dirt collection region 38 to pass through the cyclonic dirt outlet 633 and the cyclone 31, back through the conduit 612 and optional auxiliary or evacuation mode pre-motor filter 650, and through the post-motor filter 208 to a region external to the air handling components. Advantageously, this may result in some or all of any particulates dispersed in the plume or cloud that may otherwise result from the opening of the dirt collection region 38 being drawn back into the auxiliary backflow filter 650. Thus, the amount of dust, allergens, or other fine particulate matter that is "lost" (e.g., not transferred to the waste container) when the dirt collection region 38 is emptied can be reduced or eliminated. In an alternative embodiment as shown in fig. 32, it should be appreciated that an alternative downstream air flow path may extend from the main air handling component (such as the example cyclone 31) to the main suction motor 206 and bypass the main motor pre-filter 202. In this case, the auxiliary pre-return motor filter 650 may be the only filter upstream of the suction motor 206.

It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the suction motor 206 may operate at a reduced power when sucking air from the cyclonic air inlet 632. The advantage of this arrangement is that only very fine dust or other particles may be drawn toward the auxiliary return filter 650, while larger particles may be relatively unaffected by the reduced airflow. For example, when the openable lower end 32 of the cyclone barrel assembly 30 has been moved to the open position, larger dirt particles collected in the dirt collection region may be directed by gravity to the interior of the waste container over which the cyclone barrel assembly 30 is located.

In the example shown in fig. 29 and 30, the same suction source used during normal operation of the surface cleaning apparatus is used to draw air from the cyclonic air inlet 632 during evacuation of the dirt collection region 38. Alternatively, an auxiliary or evacuation mode suction source may be provided to draw air from the cyclone, such as from the cyclone air inlet 632.

For example, as shown in fig. 31, a primary suction source 220a (which may be referred to as a primary suction motor or primary suction motor and fan assembly) may be provided downstream of the cyclonic air outlet 634 for drawing air through the cyclone 31 during normal operation of the surface cleaning apparatus (cleaning mode). For example, the suction fan 204a may be used to direct airflow from the dirty air inlet 602 through the cyclonic air inlet 632, around the cyclone 31, through the cyclonic air outlet 634, and out the clean air outlet 604a of the surface cleaning apparatus.

During evacuation of the dirt collection region (evacuation mode), the evacuation mode suction fan 204b and the evacuation mode suction motor 206b may be used to draw air from the cyclonic air inlet 632 via the conduit 612, causing airflow from the dirt collection region 38 to pass through the cyclonic dirt outlet 633 and the cyclone 31, through the conduit 612 and the optional auxiliary return filter 650, and through the post-motor filter 208b to the auxiliary clean air outlet 604b. Advantageously, this may result in some or all of any particles dispersed in the plume or cloud created by the opening of the dirt collection region 38 being drawn back into the auxiliary backflow filter 650.

It should be appreciated that whichever suction motor is used, the air flow path through which air travels during the evacuation mode (alternatively the downstream air flow path) may be closed during the cleaning mode and opened during the evacuation mode. Similarly, the flow path from the primary air handling component to the primary suction motor (the primary downstream portion of the air flow path) is open during the cleaning mode and may be closed during the evacuation mode. The primary closure member may be associated with a primary downstream portion of the air flow path, and an alternative closure member may be associated with an alternative downstream air flow path. The closure members may be provided at the inlet of the air flow paths and may be any closure member, such as a valve or a sliding closure plate or the like.

For example, as shown in fig. 32, a valve 640c is provided to selectively direct suction from the main suction source 220 to either the cyclonic air outlet 634 (for drawing air through the cyclone 31 during normal operation of the surface cleaning apparatus) or the bypass inlet 636 (for drawing air from the dirt collection region 38 through the cyclone 31 during evacuation). Valve 640c may be a sliding plate that selectively blocks the outlets of main pre-motor filter 202 and alternative pre-motor filter 650. Thus, a single closure member may be used.

Thus, during a cleaning operation, the valve 640c may direct the airflow generated by the main suction fan 204 to direct the airflow from the dirty air inlet 602 through the cyclonic air inlet 632, around the cyclone 31, through the cyclonic air outlet 634, through the pre-motor filter 202, through the suction motor, through the post-motor filter 208, and out the clean air outlet 604 of the surface cleaning apparatus.

During evacuation of the dirt collection region, the valve 640c (in the position shown in fig. 32) may direct the airflow generated by the suction fan 204 to draw the airflow from the dirt collection region 38 through the cyclonic dirt outlet 633 and the cyclone 31, and through the auxiliary clean cyclone outlet, through the clean circulation motor pre-filter 650, through the suction motor and through the post-motor filter 208 to the clean air outlet 604. This may result in some or all of any particles dispersed in the plume or cloud created by the opening of the dirt collection region 38 being drawn back into the auxiliary pre-motor filter 650. Because dirt entrained by the pre-motor filters may differ between the cleaning operation and the evacuation operation (e.g., may be finer during the cleaning operation), each pre-motor filter 202 and 650 may be designed to collect dirt having a different particle size distribution. The advantage of this design is that the main pre-motor filter 202 is not used in the drain mode, so the pre-motor filter can be run for longer periods of time without cleaning or replacement.

In alternative embodiments, separate closure members may be used for each flow path. Thus, for example, in the embodiment of fig. 31, a primary closure member 640c may be used to close the cyclonic air outlet during the evacuation mode, and an alternative closure member 640d may be used to close the alternative downstream air flow path 612 during the cleaning mode.

As described above, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the suction motor 206 may be operated at a reduced power during the evacuation operation such that only very fine dust or other particulates may be drawn toward the auxiliary pre-motor filter 650, while larger particulates may be relatively unaffected by the reduced airflow.

As used herein, the term "and/or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or". That is, for example, "X and/or Y" is intended to mean X or Y or both. As another example, "X, Y and/or Z" are intended to mean X or Y or Z or any combination thereof.

While the above description describes features of example embodiments, it should be appreciated that some of the components and/or functions of the described embodiments may be modified without departing from the spirit and principles of operation of the described embodiments. For example, various features described by means of the embodiments or examples represented can be selectively combined with one another. Accordingly, the above description is intended to be illustrative of the claimed concept and not limiting. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that changes or modifications can be made to the above without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. The scope of the claims should not be limited to the preferred embodiments and examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

Claims

1. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus, comprising:

(a) A port in the waste container for transferring particulate matter from a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus into an interior space of the waste container, the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus being removably disposed in air flow communication with the port; and

(b) An air flow path from the port to a clean air outlet, the air flow path including a suction motor and an air handling member,

wherein the air handling component comprises a waste container dirt collection region,

wherein the waste container has an upper end with the opening above a lower end of the waste container dirt collection region and the surface cleaning apparatus dirt collection region moves downwardly to be in an empty position.

2. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the air handling member comprises a cyclone having a cyclone air inlet and a cyclone air outlet at a lower end thereof.

3. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the air treatment member has an air inlet in a sidewall thereof.

4. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the waste container dirt collection region is external to the cyclone and communicates with the cyclone via a dirt outlet.

5. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising an openable lid.

6. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the suction motor is disposed below the through opening.

7. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the waste container is portable.

8. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the openable door of the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus is located in the waste container when the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus is disposed in airflow communication with the through opening.

9. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a waste bag is removably disposed in the waste container.

10. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the outer wall of the surface cleaning apparatus is insertable into the waste container, the waste container sealing around the outer wall of the portion of the surface cleaning apparatus when the at least a portion of the outer wall of the surface cleaning apparatus is inserted into the waste container.

11. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the vent is upwardly directed when the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus is in airflow communication with the vent and the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus is located above the bottom of the waste container.

12. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus, comprising:

(a) A port in the waste container for transferring particulate matter from a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus into an interior space of the waste container, the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus being removably sealably disposed in airflow communication with the port;

(b) An air flow path from the port to a clean air outlet, the air flow path including an air handling component,

wherein the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus is arranged in airflow communication with the through opening, the arrangement comprising arranging the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus to be located above the bottom of the waste container, and when the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus is arranged in airflow communication with the through opening, the through opening faces upwardly,

wherein the openable door of the dirt collection area of the surface cleaning apparatus is located in the waste container when the dirt collection area of the surface cleaning apparatus is disposed in airflow communication with the through opening.

13. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein when the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus is placed in airflow communication with the through opening and the suction motor is activated, air passes downwardly from the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus into the interior space whereby dirt collected in the dirt collection region of the surface cleaning apparatus is transferred into the dirt collection region of the waste container.

14. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein at least a portion of the outer wall of the surface cleaning apparatus is insertable into the waste container.

15. A waste container for evacuating a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus, comprising:

(a) A port in the waste container for transferring particulate matter from a dirt collection region of a surface cleaning apparatus into an interior space of the waste container, the port extending from an upper surface of the waste container into the interior space;

(b) An air flow path from the interior space to a clean air outlet, the air flow path including a suction motor and an air handling member,

wherein the dirt collection area of the surface cleaning apparatus is removably disposed in air flow communication with the through opening by inserting a lower end of the dirt collection area of the surface cleaning apparatus into the interior space through the through opening, wherein the dirt collection area of the surface cleaning apparatus is located above the bottom of the waste container.