EP3119254A1 - A surface treating head - Google Patents

A surface treating head

Info

Publication number
EP3119254A1
EP3119254A1 EP15707752.0A EP15707752A EP3119254A1 EP 3119254 A1 EP3119254 A1 EP 3119254A1 EP 15707752 A EP15707752 A EP 15707752A EP 3119254 A1 EP3119254 A1 EP 3119254A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
surface treating
treating head
moveable
working edges
actuator
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP15707752.0A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3119254B1 (en
Inventor
Charles Box
Luke STEPHENS
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Dyson Technology Ltd
Original Assignee
Dyson Technology Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Dyson Technology Ltd filed Critical Dyson Technology Ltd
Publication of EP3119254A1 publication Critical patent/EP3119254A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3119254B1 publication Critical patent/EP3119254B1/en
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/02—Nozzles
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/02—Nozzles
    • A47L9/06—Nozzles with fixed, e.g. adjustably fixed brushes or the like
    • A47L9/066—Nozzles with fixed, e.g. adjustably fixed brushes or the like with adjustably mounted brushes, combs, lips or pads; Height adjustment of nozzle or dust loosening tools

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a surface treating head.
  • Surface treating appliances such as vacuum cleaners are usually provided with one or more surface treating heads, often referred to as cleaner heads. It is common to be able to manipulate cleaner heads between different "modes" of use. The different modes can, for example, allow for more effective cleaning by the surface treating head on different types of floor surface, such as carpeted or hard floors.
  • the surface treating head comprises a suction cavity having a suction cavity opening provided between two suction cavity edges, known as "working edges".
  • the rear working edge is moveable, and can be positioned between a first position in which the suction cavity opening is largely closed, and a second position in which the suction cavity opening is opened to its greatest extent.
  • the moveable working edge can be moved from the first position to the second position, and vice versa, by way of, for example, a foot actuated lever as shown in Figures 1 and 4 of EP0898924.
  • An alternative embodiment is described whereby the moveable working edge is biased by a spring into the first position, and by moving the surface treating head over a floor surface with a high resistance to movement, for example a deep pile carpet, will cause the edge to overcome the bias from the spring and move into the second position.
  • the foot actuated arrangement allows the user to select a desired position for the moveable working edge.
  • it is difficult for a user to select an intermediate position between the first and second positions and a user will typically select either of the two extreme positions for the working edge, neither which may provide the optimum position for the most effective cleaning of the floor surface.
  • the alternative embodiment comprising the spring biased working edge does not allow a user to select a position that they wish to use.
  • This invention provides a surface treating head comprising: a suction cavity having a suction cavity opening bounded by a front working edge and a rear working edge, at least one of the front and rear working edges being moveable between a first position in which a separation distance between the working edges is at a maximum and a second position in which the separation distance between the working edges is at a minimum; and an actuating mechanism comprising a user-operable actuator for actuating at least one of the front and rear working edges between the first and second positions; wherein the movement of the actuator required to actuate at least one of the front and rear working edges is in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the direction of movement of the moveable working edges.
  • the actuator is afforded a greater degree of lateral movement from side to side on the soleplate body, whereas the degree of movement in a front-to-back direction would be relatively restricted. Accordingly, it may be easier for a user to more accurately select a desired rear working edge position according to their needs, or the type of floor surface to be cleaned. Furthermore, it may be easier for a user to achieve the optimum balance of dirt pick-up performance versus motion resistance for the surface treating head on any given floor type.
  • the actuator may be a slider. This provides a relatively easy actuating mechanism for a user to use, and which can provide a good visual identification to the user as to the current position of the actuator and therefore the position of the moveable working edges.
  • the actuator may be moveable such that at least one of the first and second working edges can be positioned in an intermediate position located between the first and second positions. As a result, a user is able to use the actuator to position the moveable working edges in the exact position that allows for the optimum balance of dirt pick-up performance versus motion resistance.
  • the rear working edge may be moveable while the front working edge is fixed, or alternatively the front working edge may be moveable while the rear working edge is fixed, or further alternatively both the front and the rear working edges may be moveable. Accordingly, the most suitable configuration for the moveable edge(s) can be employed to suit any arrangement of the surface treating head.
  • Either the moveable working edges or the actuating mechanism may comprise a protruding member, and the other of the moveable working edges or the actuating mechanism then may comprise a guide path configured to engagingly receive the protruding member. That is, the moveable working edges may comprise the protruding member and the actuating mechanism then comprises the guide path, or alternatively, the actuating mechanism may comprise the protruding member and the moveable working edges then comprises the guide path. Movement of the actuating mechanism may cause movement of the protruding member through the guide path. As a result, a simple and reliable way of transferring movement from the actuator to the moveable working edges can be achieved.
  • a distance moved by the actuator during actuation may not be equal to the resulting distance moved by at least one of the front and rear working edges.
  • a distance moved by the actuator during actuation may be substantially double the resulting distance moved by at least one of the front and rear working edges. As a result, a greater degree of control may be achieved over the positioning of the moveable working edges.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a surface treating head in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is a top view of the surface treating head of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 3 is a bottom view of the surface treating head of Figures 1 and 2;
  • Figure 4 is a perspective view of a soleplate body of a surface treating head in accordance with the present invention;
  • Figures 5A and 5B are top views of the soleplate body of Figure 4 in a first and a second configuration;
  • Figures 6A and 6B show the bottom view of the soleplate bodies in the two configurations of 5A and 5B respectively;
  • Figure 7A shows a cross section in perspective through the soleplate body of Figure 4 when in the configuration shown in Figures 5A and 6A;
  • Figure 7B shows a side view of a slice of the soleplate body at the cross section point of Figure 7A;
  • Figure 8A shows a second cross section in perspective through the soleplate body of Figure 4 when in the configuration shown in Figures 5A and 6A;
  • Figure 8B shows a side view of a slice of the soleplate body at the cross section point of Figure 8A;
  • Figure 9A shows a cross section in perspective through the soleplate body of Figure 4 when in the configuration shown in Figures 5B and 6B;
  • Figure 9B shows a side view of a slice of the soleplate body at the cross section point of Figure 9A;
  • Figure 10A shows a second cross section in perspective through the soleplate body of Figure 4 when in the configuration shown in Figures 5B and 6B;
  • Figure 10B shows a side view of a slice of the soleplate body at the cross section point of Figure 10A;
  • Figure 1 1 shows an actuating mechanism and moveable working edge according to a first embodiment;
  • Figure 12 shows an actuating mechanism and moveable working edge according to a second embodiment
  • Figure 13A is a top view of the actuating mechanism and moveable working edge of Figure 11 in the configuration shown in Figures 5A and 6A; and Figure 13B is a top view of the actuating mechanism and moveable working edge of Figure 11 in the configuration shown in Figures 5B and 6B.
  • Figures 1 , 2 and 3 show a surface treating head 1.
  • the surface treating head 1 comprises a main body 2 and a rolling support 3.
  • the main body 2 comprises an outer housing 4 that is provided around a soleplate body 5.
  • the rolling support 3 comprises wheels 6 and a swivel duct 7.
  • the swivel duct 7 allows the surface treating head 1 to be attached to a vacuum cleaner, for example by way of a wand attachment in the case of a cylinder- or canister-style vacuum cleaner.
  • the swivel duct 7 is in fluid connection with the main body 2, and in particular with the soleplate body 5, by way of duct 8.
  • Figures 1 and 2 also show an actuator 10 in the form of a mechanical slider that is provided on the top exposed surface of the soleplate body 5.
  • Axis M represents a forward direction of the surface treating 1 head during use. It can therefore be said that the axis M points forward of the front edge of the surface treating head !
  • FIG 3 shows the underneath of the surface treating head 1.
  • the underneath of the soleplate body 5 comprises a suction cavity 11 that has a suction cavity opening provided between a front working edge 12 and a rear working edge 14.
  • the relative terms “front” and “rear” are defined in accordance with the direction of use of the surface treating head 1 during a forward sweep in a vacuum cleaning operation (as represented by axis M in Figure 1).
  • the suction cavity 11 is in fluid connection with the duct 8 by way of duct opening 15.
  • Figure 4 shows just the soleplate body 5 with the remainder of the surface treating head 1 hidden from view.
  • the duct opening 15 extends upwards from the top surface of the soleplate body 5. Behind the duct opening, towards the rear of the soleplate body 5, is a central air bleed vent 16.
  • the outer opening for the central air bleed vent 16 is located in the central portion of a groove 17 that runs laterally across the top surface of the soleplate body 5 along a substantial portion of its width.
  • the central and side air bleed vents 16 and 18 are able to fluidly connect the suction cavity 1 1 inside the soleplate body 5 with the air immediately surrounding the outside of the surface treating head 1. Accordingly, during use when the central and side air bleed vents 16 and 18 are opened, air is drawn into the suction cavity 1 1 through the air bleed vents 16, 18 as well as through the suction cavity opening between the working edges 12, 14. This has the effect of reducing the suction power produced at the suction cavity opening.
  • Figures 5A and 5B are top views of the soleplate body 5. From this view the openings of the central and side air bleed vents 16, 18 can be seen more clearly.
  • the actuator 10 is in a first position wherein a finger grip for the actuator 10 is positioned nearest the centre of the soleplate body 5. From this first position the actuator 10 can be moved in the direction of arrow D.
  • Figure 5B shows the soleplate body 5 with the actuator 10 in a second position wherein the finger grip is positioned near the side edge of the soleplate body.
  • Figures 6A and 6B show the underneath of the soleplate body 5 when the actuator is in the two positions shown in Figures 5A and 5B respectively.
  • the rear working edge 14 is moveable and is actuated by the actuator 10 such that in Figure 6A when the actuator 10 is in the first position (as shown in Figure 5A), the rear working edge 14 is in a first position. In this first position, the distance between the front working edge 12 and the rear working edge 14 is at a maximum, indicated by dimension a, which means that the suction cavity opening is at its greatest.
  • the actuator 10 is in the second position (as shown in Figure 5B)
  • the rear working edge 14 is in a second position. In this second position, the distance between the front working edge 12 and the rear working edge 14 is at a minimum, indicated by dimension ⁇ , which means that the suction cavity opening is at its smallest.
  • the suction force achieved at the suction cavity opening is greatly increased when the surface treating head 1 is in use. This improves the dirt pick-up performance of the surface treating head 1.
  • the surface treating head 1 may be drawn towards the floor surface with such a large force that there is a large resistance to motion. This could result with the user finding it difficult to move the surface treating head 1 over the floor surface being cleaned.
  • the suction force achieved at the suction cavity opening is reduced when the surface treating head 1 is in use.
  • This will result in a reduction in dirt pick-up performance for the surface treating head 1 , but will also reduce the force with which the surface treating head 1 is drawn towards the floor surface.
  • the resistance to motion will be reduced and the user will be able to move the surface treating head over the floor surface more easily. Therefore the user is able to move the actuator 10 to switch between the two positions shown in Figures 5A and 5B according to their needs in regards to the dirt pick-up performance and manoeuvrability of the surface treating head 1 on different floor surfaces whilst in use.
  • Figures 7A and 7B, and also 8A and 8B show cross-sections through the soleplate body 5 when the actuator 10 and moveable rear working edge 14 are both in the first positions described above and shown in Figures 5A and 6A.
  • the cross-sections of Figures 7A and 7B are taken through the soleplate body 5 at a point where a central air bleed vent 16 is located.
  • the cross-sections of Figures 8A and 8B are taken through the soleplate body 5 at a point where a side air bleed vent 18 is located.
  • a seal 20 is provided between the moveable rear working edge 14 and a rear wall 22 of the suction cavity 1 1.
  • Figures 9A and 9B, and also 10A and 10B show cross-sections through the soleplate body 5 when the actuator and moveable rear working edge 14 are both in the second positions described above and shown in Figures 5B and 6B.
  • the cross-sections shown in Figures 9A and 9B are taken along the same line as those shown in Figures 7A and 7B, i.e. at a point where a central air bleed vent 16 is located.
  • the cross-sections shown in Figures 10A and 10B are taken along the same line as those shown in Figures 8A and 8B, i.e. at a point where a side air bleed vent 18 is located.
  • air is able to enter the suction cavity 11 from outside the surface treating head 1 through the air bleed vents 16, 18 as shown by arrows E and F.
  • the suction force at the suction cavity opening which acts to attract the surface treating head 1 to the floor surface is considerably reduced compared to when the air bleed vents 16, 18 are close as described above. Therefore, the user will experience less resistance to motion, and will be able to more easily manoeuvre the surface treating head 1 along a floor surface.
  • the air bleed vents 16, 18 are opened due to the rear working edge no longer being in contact with the seal 20 located on the rear wall 22 of the suction cavity 1 1. Therefore, the one user action of moving the rear working edge 14 by sliding the actuator 10 causes two resulting reactions that reduce the suction force at the suction cavity opening: the first being the reduction of the size of the suction cavity opening, and the second being the opening of the air bleed vents.
  • a further advantage is that, because the air bleed vents are adjusted along with the moveable working edge by actuation of the same actuator, the user does not need to remember to change both the moveable edge and the air bleed vents when progressing from one floor surface type to another during a cleaning operation.
  • air bleed vents 16, 18 are opened by the rear edge moving out of abutment with the seal 20.
  • alternative embodiments could be envisaged that still cause air bleed vents to be opened on actuation of the actuator.
  • the front working edge 12 could be moveable, or both the front 12 and rear 14 working edges could be moveable. Therefore air bleed vents could be provided at the front or front and rear of the soleplate body 5.
  • the air bleed vent openings could be closed by a slideable plate that is connected to the actuator 10 such that when the actuator 10 is moved, the plate slides away to reveal the air bleed vent opening.
  • Figure 11 shows a first embodiment of the actuating mechanism used to move the rear working edge 14.
  • the mechanism comprises the rear working edge 14 and an actuator 10.
  • the actuator 10 has a portion 23 that extends under the upper surface of the soleplate body 5 such that it is not visible during normal use.
  • a top portion of the rear working edge 14 is provided with two channels or guide paths 24, and the actuator 10 is provided with two downwardly protruding members 25 in the form of bosses that are aligned to engage into the guide paths 24 provided on the top of the rear working edge 14.
  • FIG. 12 An alternative embodiment of the actuating mechanism is shown in Figure 12, in which the rear working edge 14 is provided with upwardly protruding members 26 in the form of bosses, whereas the actuator 10, including the extended portion 27, is provided with guide paths 28 such that the upwardly protruding bosses are aligned to engage with the guide paths 28.
  • Figures 13A and 13B show the actuation of the actuating mechanism of Figure 1 1.
  • the actuator 10 When the actuator 10 is moved along a fixed straight path in the direction of arrow G (which is substantially parallel to the lateral axis L), the bosses provided on the underneath of the actuator 10 pass through the guide paths provided on the upper side of the rear working edge 14. The resulting force of the bosses on the sides of the guide paths causes the rear working edge 14 to move in the direction of arrow H (which is substantially parallel to axis M), as shown in Figure 13A. This corresponds to the movement of the edge from the first position to the second position described above.
  • the actuator 10 by arranging the actuator 10 to have a side-to-side, or lateral, direction of actuation it can be afforded a larger length of travel.
  • Providing the actuator 10 with a relatively large length of travel compared to a smaller resulting movement of the rear working edge 14 has the result that it is easier for a user to more accurately select a desired rear working edge position and associated air bleed vent configuration. As such, it is easier for a user to achieve the optimum balance of dirt pick-up performance and motion resistance for the surface treating head 1 on any given floor type.
  • the guide paths 24 and 28 have a relatively straight and shallow-angled path over the length of travel of the actuator. This results in a smooth and steady resulting movement of the rear working edge 14.
  • the shape of the guide paths can be designed to give rise to different types of resulting motion of the rear working edge according to the requirements of the surface treating head 1.
  • the guide paths could be provided with an unevenly curved pathway such that the initial movement of the rear working edge 14 from the first position is slow but then speeds up as it approaches the second position. This may be desirable in some circumstances, for example to stop the air bleed vents 16, 18 from opening too much too quickly.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Nozzles For Electric Vacuum Cleaners (AREA)
  • Cleaning In General (AREA)

Abstract

A surface treating head (1) comprising a suction cavity (11) having a suction cavity opening bounded by a front working edge (12) and a rear working edge (14), at least one of the front and rear working edges (12, 14) being moveable between a first position in which a separation distance between the working edges (12, 14) is at a maximum and a second position in which the separation distance between the working edges (12, 14) is at a minimum. The surface treating head (1) also comprises an actuating mechanism comprising a user-operable actuator (10) for actuating at least one of the front and rear working edges (12, 14) between the first and second positions; wherein the movement of the actuator (10) required to actuate at least one of the front and rear working edges (12, 14) is in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the direction of movement of the moveable working edges (12, 14).

Description

A Surface Treating Head
The present invention relates to a surface treating head. Surface treating appliances such as vacuum cleaners are usually provided with one or more surface treating heads, often referred to as cleaner heads. It is common to be able to manipulate cleaner heads between different "modes" of use. The different modes can, for example, allow for more effective cleaning by the surface treating head on different types of floor surface, such as carpeted or hard floors.
One example of a surface treating head is described in EP0898924. The surface treating head comprises a suction cavity having a suction cavity opening provided between two suction cavity edges, known as "working edges". In order that the surface treating head can clean more effectively on different floor surface types, the rear working edge is moveable, and can be positioned between a first position in which the suction cavity opening is largely closed, and a second position in which the suction cavity opening is opened to its greatest extent. With the suction cavity opening largely closed a reduced suction force can be achieved, whereas with the suction cavity opening open to its greatest extent the suction force can be increased. The moveable working edge can be moved from the first position to the second position, and vice versa, by way of, for example, a foot actuated lever as shown in Figures 1 and 4 of EP0898924. An alternative embodiment is described whereby the moveable working edge is biased by a spring into the first position, and by moving the surface treating head over a floor surface with a high resistance to movement, for example a deep pile carpet, will cause the edge to overcome the bias from the spring and move into the second position.
The foot actuated arrangement allows the user to select a desired position for the moveable working edge. However, it is difficult for a user to select an intermediate position between the first and second positions, and a user will typically select either of the two extreme positions for the working edge, neither which may provide the optimum position for the most effective cleaning of the floor surface. The alternative embodiment comprising the spring biased working edge does not allow a user to select a position that they wish to use. This invention provides a surface treating head comprising: a suction cavity having a suction cavity opening bounded by a front working edge and a rear working edge, at least one of the front and rear working edges being moveable between a first position in which a separation distance between the working edges is at a maximum and a second position in which the separation distance between the working edges is at a minimum; and an actuating mechanism comprising a user-operable actuator for actuating at least one of the front and rear working edges between the first and second positions; wherein the movement of the actuator required to actuate at least one of the front and rear working edges is in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the direction of movement of the moveable working edges.
As a result, the actuator is afforded a greater degree of lateral movement from side to side on the soleplate body, whereas the degree of movement in a front-to-back direction would be relatively restricted. Accordingly, it may be easier for a user to more accurately select a desired rear working edge position according to their needs, or the type of floor surface to be cleaned. Furthermore, it may be easier for a user to achieve the optimum balance of dirt pick-up performance versus motion resistance for the surface treating head on any given floor type.
The actuator may be a slider. This provides a relatively easy actuating mechanism for a user to use, and which can provide a good visual identification to the user as to the current position of the actuator and therefore the position of the moveable working edges.
The actuator may be moveable such that at least one of the first and second working edges can be positioned in an intermediate position located between the first and second positions. As a result, a user is able to use the actuator to position the moveable working edges in the exact position that allows for the optimum balance of dirt pick-up performance versus motion resistance.
The rear working edge may be moveable while the front working edge is fixed, or alternatively the front working edge may be moveable while the rear working edge is fixed, or further alternatively both the front and the rear working edges may be moveable. Accordingly, the most suitable configuration for the moveable edge(s) can be employed to suit any arrangement of the surface treating head.
Either the moveable working edges or the actuating mechanism may comprise a protruding member, and the other of the moveable working edges or the actuating mechanism then may comprise a guide path configured to engagingly receive the protruding member. That is, the moveable working edges may comprise the protruding member and the actuating mechanism then comprises the guide path, or alternatively, the actuating mechanism may comprise the protruding member and the moveable working edges then comprises the guide path. Movement of the actuating mechanism may cause movement of the protruding member through the guide path. As a result, a simple and reliable way of transferring movement from the actuator to the moveable working edges can be achieved. A distance moved by the actuator during actuation may not be equal to the resulting distance moved by at least one of the front and rear working edges. For instance, a distance moved by the actuator during actuation may be substantially double the resulting distance moved by at least one of the front and rear working edges. As a result, a greater degree of control may be achieved over the positioning of the moveable working edges.
This invention further provides a vacuum cleaner comprising a surface treating head as described in any one of the preceding statements. In order that the present invention may be more readily understood, embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the following accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a surface treating head in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 2 is a top view of the surface treating head of Figure 1 ;
Figure 3 is a bottom view of the surface treating head of Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 is a perspective view of a soleplate body of a surface treating head in accordance with the present invention; Figures 5A and 5B are top views of the soleplate body of Figure 4 in a first and a second configuration;
Figures 6A and 6B show the bottom view of the soleplate bodies in the two configurations of 5A and 5B respectively;
Figure 7A shows a cross section in perspective through the soleplate body of Figure 4 when in the configuration shown in Figures 5A and 6A;
Figure 7B shows a side view of a slice of the soleplate body at the cross section point of Figure 7A;
Figure 8A shows a second cross section in perspective through the soleplate body of Figure 4 when in the configuration shown in Figures 5A and 6A; Figure 8B shows a side view of a slice of the soleplate body at the cross section point of Figure 8A;
Figure 9A shows a cross section in perspective through the soleplate body of Figure 4 when in the configuration shown in Figures 5B and 6B;
Figure 9B shows a side view of a slice of the soleplate body at the cross section point of Figure 9A;
Figure 10A shows a second cross section in perspective through the soleplate body of Figure 4 when in the configuration shown in Figures 5B and 6B;
Figure 10B shows a side view of a slice of the soleplate body at the cross section point of Figure 10A; Figure 1 1 shows an actuating mechanism and moveable working edge according to a first embodiment;
Figure 12 shows an actuating mechanism and moveable working edge according to a second embodiment;
Figure 13A is a top view of the actuating mechanism and moveable working edge of Figure 11 in the configuration shown in Figures 5A and 6A; and Figure 13B is a top view of the actuating mechanism and moveable working edge of Figure 11 in the configuration shown in Figures 5B and 6B.
Figures 1 , 2 and 3 show a surface treating head 1. The surface treating head 1 comprises a main body 2 and a rolling support 3. The main body 2 comprises an outer housing 4 that is provided around a soleplate body 5. The rolling support 3 comprises wheels 6 and a swivel duct 7. The swivel duct 7 allows the surface treating head 1 to be attached to a vacuum cleaner, for example by way of a wand attachment in the case of a cylinder- or canister-style vacuum cleaner. The swivel duct 7 is in fluid connection with the main body 2, and in particular with the soleplate body 5, by way of duct 8. Figures 1 and 2 also show an actuator 10 in the form of a mechanical slider that is provided on the top exposed surface of the soleplate body 5. Vertical and lateral axes of the surface treating head 1 are represented by axes V and L respectively. Axis M represents a forward direction of the surface treating 1 head during use. It can therefore be said that the axis M points forward of the front edge of the surface treating head !
Figure 3 shows the underneath of the surface treating head 1. The underneath of the soleplate body 5 comprises a suction cavity 11 that has a suction cavity opening provided between a front working edge 12 and a rear working edge 14. The relative terms "front" and "rear" are defined in accordance with the direction of use of the surface treating head 1 during a forward sweep in a vacuum cleaning operation (as represented by axis M in Figure 1). The suction cavity 11 is in fluid connection with the duct 8 by way of duct opening 15. Figure 4 shows just the soleplate body 5 with the remainder of the surface treating head 1 hidden from view. The duct opening 15 extends upwards from the top surface of the soleplate body 5. Behind the duct opening, towards the rear of the soleplate body 5, is a central air bleed vent 16. The outer opening for the central air bleed vent 16 is located in the central portion of a groove 17 that runs laterally across the top surface of the soleplate body 5 along a substantial portion of its width. At each end of the groove 17 there are side air bleed vents 18, the openings for which cannot be seen in Figure 4. The central and side air bleed vents 16 and 18 are able to fluidly connect the suction cavity 1 1 inside the soleplate body 5 with the air immediately surrounding the outside of the surface treating head 1. Accordingly, during use when the central and side air bleed vents 16 and 18 are opened, air is drawn into the suction cavity 1 1 through the air bleed vents 16, 18 as well as through the suction cavity opening between the working edges 12, 14. This has the effect of reducing the suction power produced at the suction cavity opening.
Figures 5A and 5B are top views of the soleplate body 5. From this view the openings of the central and side air bleed vents 16, 18 can be seen more clearly. In Figure 5A the actuator 10 is in a first position wherein a finger grip for the actuator 10 is positioned nearest the centre of the soleplate body 5. From this first position the actuator 10 can be moved in the direction of arrow D. Figure 5B shows the soleplate body 5 with the actuator 10 in a second position wherein the finger grip is positioned near the side edge of the soleplate body.
Figures 6A and 6B show the underneath of the soleplate body 5 when the actuator is in the two positions shown in Figures 5A and 5B respectively. The rear working edge 14 is moveable and is actuated by the actuator 10 such that in Figure 6A when the actuator 10 is in the first position (as shown in Figure 5A), the rear working edge 14 is in a first position. In this first position, the distance between the front working edge 12 and the rear working edge 14 is at a maximum, indicated by dimension a, which means that the suction cavity opening is at its greatest. Conversely in Figure 6B, when the actuator 10 is in the second position (as shown in Figure 5B), the rear working edge 14 is in a second position. In this second position, the distance between the front working edge 12 and the rear working edge 14 is at a minimum, indicated by dimension β, which means that the suction cavity opening is at its smallest.
When the width of the suction cavity opening is at its greatest, a, and with the central and side air bleed vents 16, 18 closed, the suction force achieved at the suction cavity opening is greatly increased when the surface treating head 1 is in use. This improves the dirt pick-up performance of the surface treating head 1. However, due to the increased suction at the suction cavity opening, the surface treating head 1 may be drawn towards the floor surface with such a large force that there is a large resistance to motion. This could result with the user finding it difficult to move the surface treating head 1 over the floor surface being cleaned. On the other hand, with the width of the suction cavity opening at its smallest, β, and with the central and side air bleed vents 16, 18 open, the suction force achieved at the suction cavity opening is reduced when the surface treating head 1 is in use. This will result in a reduction in dirt pick-up performance for the surface treating head 1 , but will also reduce the force with which the surface treating head 1 is drawn towards the floor surface. As such, the resistance to motion will be reduced and the user will be able to move the surface treating head over the floor surface more easily. Therefore the user is able to move the actuator 10 to switch between the two positions shown in Figures 5A and 5B according to their needs in regards to the dirt pick-up performance and manoeuvrability of the surface treating head 1 on different floor surfaces whilst in use.
Figures 7A and 7B, and also 8A and 8B, show cross-sections through the soleplate body 5 when the actuator 10 and moveable rear working edge 14 are both in the first positions described above and shown in Figures 5A and 6A. The cross-sections of Figures 7A and 7B are taken through the soleplate body 5 at a point where a central air bleed vent 16 is located. The cross-sections of Figures 8A and 8B are taken through the soleplate body 5 at a point where a side air bleed vent 18 is located. A seal 20 is provided between the moveable rear working edge 14 and a rear wall 22 of the suction cavity 1 1. Therefore, when the rear working edge 14 is in the first position, the rear working edge 14 comes into abutment with the seal 20 such that there is no gap between the rear working edge 14 and the seal 20. When the rear working edge is in abutment with the seal 20 in this way, air is prevented from entering the suction cavity 1 1 from outside the surface treating head 1 through the air bleed vents 16 or 18. Therefore when the moveable rear working edge 14 is in the first position, the air bleed vents 16 and 18 are closed. Accordingly, only air that passes through the suction cavity opening between the working edges 12, 14 can be drawn into the suction cavity 1 1 and subsequently through the duct opening 15, the duct 8 and swivel duct 7 into the vacuum cleaner.
Figures 9A and 9B, and also 10A and 10B, show cross-sections through the soleplate body 5 when the actuator and moveable rear working edge 14 are both in the second positions described above and shown in Figures 5B and 6B. The cross-sections shown in Figures 9A and 9B are taken along the same line as those shown in Figures 7A and 7B, i.e. at a point where a central air bleed vent 16 is located. The cross-sections shown in Figures 10A and 10B are taken along the same line as those shown in Figures 8A and 8B, i.e. at a point where a side air bleed vent 18 is located. With the moveable rear working edge 14 in the second position, it no longer abuts with the seal 20. Therefore, air is able to enter the suction cavity 11 from outside the surface treating head 1 through the air bleed vents 16, 18 as shown by arrows E and F. As air is able to enter the suction cavity 1 1 through a pathway other than through the suction cavity opening, the suction force at the suction cavity opening which acts to attract the surface treating head 1 to the floor surface is considerably reduced compared to when the air bleed vents 16, 18 are close as described above. Therefore, the user will experience less resistance to motion, and will be able to more easily manoeuvre the surface treating head 1 along a floor surface.
As previously described, when the rear working edge 14 is moved from the first position to the second position the air bleed vents 16, 18 are opened due to the rear working edge no longer being in contact with the seal 20 located on the rear wall 22 of the suction cavity 1 1. Therefore, the one user action of moving the rear working edge 14 by sliding the actuator 10 causes two resulting reactions that reduce the suction force at the suction cavity opening: the first being the reduction of the size of the suction cavity opening, and the second being the opening of the air bleed vents. A further advantage is that, because the air bleed vents are adjusted along with the moveable working edge by actuation of the same actuator, the user does not need to remember to change both the moveable edge and the air bleed vents when progressing from one floor surface type to another during a cleaning operation. In the arrangement described above and shown in the Figures the air bleed vents 16, 18 are opened by the rear edge moving out of abutment with the seal 20. However, alternative embodiments could be envisaged that still cause air bleed vents to be opened on actuation of the actuator. For example, the front working edge 12 could be moveable, or both the front 12 and rear 14 working edges could be moveable. Therefore air bleed vents could be provided at the front or front and rear of the soleplate body 5. In a further alternative embodiment, instead of the air bleed vents being opened by a moveable working edge moving out of abutment with a seal, the air bleed vent openings could be closed by a slideable plate that is connected to the actuator 10 such that when the actuator 10 is moved, the plate slides away to reveal the air bleed vent opening.
Figure 11 shows a first embodiment of the actuating mechanism used to move the rear working edge 14. The mechanism comprises the rear working edge 14 and an actuator 10. The actuator 10 has a portion 23 that extends under the upper surface of the soleplate body 5 such that it is not visible during normal use. A top portion of the rear working edge 14 is provided with two channels or guide paths 24, and the actuator 10 is provided with two downwardly protruding members 25 in the form of bosses that are aligned to engage into the guide paths 24 provided on the top of the rear working edge 14. An alternative embodiment of the actuating mechanism is shown in Figure 12, in which the rear working edge 14 is provided with upwardly protruding members 26 in the form of bosses, whereas the actuator 10, including the extended portion 27, is provided with guide paths 28 such that the upwardly protruding bosses are aligned to engage with the guide paths 28.
Figures 13A and 13B show the actuation of the actuating mechanism of Figure 1 1. When the actuator 10 is moved along a fixed straight path in the direction of arrow G (which is substantially parallel to the lateral axis L), the bosses provided on the underneath of the actuator 10 pass through the guide paths provided on the upper side of the rear working edge 14. The resulting force of the bosses on the sides of the guide paths causes the rear working edge 14 to move in the direction of arrow H (which is substantially parallel to axis M), as shown in Figure 13A. This corresponds to the movement of the edge from the first position to the second position described above. The opposite movement is shown in Figure 13B where movement of the actuator 10 along a fixed straight path in the opposite direction, shown by arrow J results in the rear working edge 14 moving in the direction of arrow K. As the rear working edge is on a fixed motion path on the underneath of the soleplate body 5, the direction of actuation of the actuator 10 is orthogonal to the resulting movement of the rear working edge 14. The dimensions of the soleplate body 5 allow for a greater degree of lateral movement (i.e. parallel to axis L) on the top surface of the soleplate body, whereas the degree of movement in a front-to-back direction (i.e. parallel to axis M) would be relatively restricted. Accordingly, by arranging the actuator 10 to have a side-to-side, or lateral, direction of actuation it can be afforded a larger length of travel. Providing the actuator 10 with a relatively large length of travel compared to a smaller resulting movement of the rear working edge 14 has the result that it is easier for a user to more accurately select a desired rear working edge position and associated air bleed vent configuration. As such, it is easier for a user to achieve the optimum balance of dirt pick-up performance and motion resistance for the surface treating head 1 on any given floor type.
In the embodiments described above and shown in the figures, the guide paths 24 and 28 have a relatively straight and shallow-angled path over the length of travel of the actuator. This results in a smooth and steady resulting movement of the rear working edge 14. However, it will be appreciated that the shape of the guide paths can be designed to give rise to different types of resulting motion of the rear working edge according to the requirements of the surface treating head 1. For example, the guide paths could be provided with an unevenly curved pathway such that the initial movement of the rear working edge 14 from the first position is slow but then speeds up as it approaches the second position. This may be desirable in some circumstances, for example to stop the air bleed vents 16, 18 from opening too much too quickly. Whilst particular embodiments have thus far been described, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A surface treating head comprising:
a suction cavity having a suction cavity opening bounded by a front working edge and a rear working edge, at least one of the front and rear working edges being moveable between a first position in which a separation distance between the working edges is at a maximum and a second position in which the separation distance between the working edges is at a minimum; and an actuating mechanism comprising a user-operable actuator for actuating at least one of the front and rear working edges between the first and second positions;
wherein the movement of the actuator required to actuate at least one of the front and rear working edges is in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the direction of movement of the moveable working edges.
2. A surface treating head as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the actuator is a slider.
3. A surface treating head as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuator is moveable such that at least one of the first and second working edges can be positioned in an intermediate position located between the first and second positions.
4. A surface treating head as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the rear working edge is moveable and the front working edge is fixed.
5. A surface treating head as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the front working edge is moveable and the rear working edge is fixed.
6. A surface treating head as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the front and the rear working edges are moveable.
7. A surface treating head as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein either the moveable working edges or the actuating mechanism comprises a protruding member, and the other of the moveable working edges or the actuating mechanism comprises a guide path configured to engagingly receive the protruding member.
8. A surface treating head as claimed in claim 7, wherein the moveable working edges comprise the protruding member and the actuating mechanism comprises the guide path.
9. A surface treating head as claimed in claim 7, wherein the actuating mechanism comprises the protruding member and the moveable working edges comprise the guide path.
10. A surface treating head as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein movement of the actuating mechanism causes movement of the protruding member through the guide path.
1 1. A surface treating head as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein a distance moved by the actuator during actuation is not equal to the resulting distance moved by at least one of the front and rear working edges.
12. A surface treating head as claimed in claim 1 1 , wherein a distance moved by the actuator during actuation is substantially double the resulting distance moved by at least one of the front and rear working edges.
13. A vacuum cleaner comprising a surface treating head as described in any one of the preceding claims.
EP15707752.0A 2014-03-21 2015-02-27 A surface treating head Not-in-force EP3119254B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1405061.1A GB2524322B (en) 2014-03-21 2014-03-21 A surface treating head
PCT/GB2015/050576 WO2015140498A1 (en) 2014-03-21 2015-02-27 A surface treating head

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3119254A1 true EP3119254A1 (en) 2017-01-25
EP3119254B1 EP3119254B1 (en) 2018-01-03

Family

ID=50686654

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP15707752.0A Not-in-force EP3119254B1 (en) 2014-03-21 2015-02-27 A surface treating head

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3119254B1 (en)
CN (1) CN106413499B (en)
GB (1) GB2524322B (en)
WO (1) WO2015140498A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
USD1105672S1 (en) * 2023-08-30 2025-12-09 Sharkninja Operating Llc Vacuum cleaner and vacuum nozzle

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3229754C2 (en) * 1982-08-10 1985-07-04 Siemens AG, 1000 Berlin und 8000 München Vacuum cleaner mouthpiece for connection to a suction line connected to a vacuum cleaner
DE19738036B4 (en) * 1997-08-30 2004-01-29 Wessel-Werk Gmbh Suction head for vacuum cleaner
DE19900557C2 (en) * 1999-01-09 2002-06-06 Wessel Werk Gmbh Suction head for vacuum cleaner
US6099661A (en) * 1999-06-01 2000-08-08 Fantom Technologies Inc. Method and apparatus for increasing the air flow into a vacuum cleaner head
DE102004006350A1 (en) * 2004-02-10 2005-08-25 Vorwerk & Co. Interholding Gmbh Floor nozzle for a vacuum cleaner
EP2453780B1 (en) * 2009-07-16 2013-11-13 Dyson Technology Limited A surface treating head
GB2496663B (en) * 2011-11-18 2014-07-30 Dyson Technology Ltd A cleaner head

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN106413499A (en) 2017-02-15
WO2015140498A1 (en) 2015-09-24
EP3119254B1 (en) 2018-01-03
CN106413499B (en) 2019-09-03
GB2524322A (en) 2015-09-23
GB2524322B (en) 2016-05-18
GB201405061D0 (en) 2014-05-07

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP3119255B1 (en) A surface treating head
US10555649B2 (en) Vacuum cleaner suction nozzle with height adjustment and bleed valve
US20180146832A1 (en) Suction nozzle for a vacuum cleaner
TW201720359A (en) Floor nozzle for a suction cleaning device
EP3030127B1 (en) A nozzle for a vacuum cleaner
EP2268182B1 (en) Nozzle
EP3240464A1 (en) Vaccum cleaner nozzle with tilt adjusting element
US8978207B2 (en) Vacuum cleaner edge cleaning system
EP3119254B1 (en) A surface treating head
EP3758571B1 (en) A cleaner head
US20020133902A1 (en) Large area surface cleaning tool
EP3151711B1 (en) Nozzle with three settings
US11786090B2 (en) Floor nozzle for a vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner
EP4395618B1 (en) Setting a position of at least one working member in a nozzle arrangement
CN221533602U (en) Floor brush and cleaning device
KR101620234B1 (en) Nozzle for a cleaner and vacuum cleaner
EP3656267B1 (en) Multi-functional vacuum cleaner nozzle
EP3427624A1 (en) Vacuum cleaner nozzle
US2294243A (en) Vacuum cleaner nozzle
JPS625612B2 (en)
JPS6036779B2 (en) vacuum cleaner

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20160921

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20170814

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 959472

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20180115

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602015007200

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 4

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20180103

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 959472

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20180103

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180403

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180403

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180404

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180503

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602015007200

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20180228

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20180227

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20180228

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20180228

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20181005

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20180227

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20180228

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20190225

Year of fee payment: 5

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20180227

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180103

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20150227

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20200229

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20210120

Year of fee payment: 7

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 602015007200

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220901