EP3530169B2 - Vacuum cleaner nozzle combining a first suction head and a second suction head - Google Patents

Vacuum cleaner nozzle combining a first suction head and a second suction head Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3530169B2
EP3530169B2 EP19156544.9A EP19156544A EP3530169B2 EP 3530169 B2 EP3530169 B2 EP 3530169B2 EP 19156544 A EP19156544 A EP 19156544A EP 3530169 B2 EP3530169 B2 EP 3530169B2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
head
nozzle
suctioning
orifice
suction
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EP19156544.9A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3530169A1 (en
EP3530169B1 (en
Inventor
Donatien Frot
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SEB SA
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SEB SA
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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
    • A47L9/24—Hoses or pipes; Hose or pipe couplings
    • A47L9/242—Hose or pipe couplings

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of vacuum cleaners and relates more particularly to the design of the vacuum cleaner nozzle, also called the suction head or suction head, by which the dust is sucked up.
  • the invention aims to design a vacuum cleaner nozzle which ensures optimum suction over the entire surface to be sucked, despite the possible presence of obstacles.
  • a vacuum cleaner nozzle according to the preamble of claim 1 is known from for example US-A-20140033473 .
  • vacuum cleaners of the cart vacuum type or of the broom type vacuum cleaner comprise a nozzle consisting of a head which has either a rectangular shape or a triangular shape.
  • each vacuum cleaner would therefore ideally be appropriate to equip each vacuum cleaner with two nozzles, one consisting of a rectangular head and the other consisting of a triangular head, in order to have optimal performance in all circumstances (open surfaces or in the presence of obstacles such as a room corner, baseboard or furniture).
  • a nozzle with a rectangular head which additionally comprises a suction device in the corners, positioned on the side of the rectangular head.
  • the nozzle consists of a suction head comprising two rectangular side elements capable of folding up for suction in the corners of rooms.
  • the object of the present invention is to design a nozzle making it possible to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.
  • the invention relates to a vacuum cleaner nozzle designed to be moved over a surface to be vacuumed.
  • the nozzle comprises a first head, advantageously rectangular, which comprises a first suction duct connected to a first suction mouth arranged on an underside of said first head.
  • the nozzle comprises a second head, advantageously triangular, which extends the first head forwards.
  • the second head comprises a second suction duct connected to a second suction mouth arranged on an underside of said second head.
  • the second head has a smaller overall width than the first head.
  • the nozzle comprises distribution means making it possible to modify the distribution of the suction between the first suction mouth and the second suction mouth.
  • Such a characteristic makes it possible to have a nozzle whose suction performance and the ergonomics of use can be greatly modified by modifying the distribution of the suction between the two heads. It is thus possible to obtain a nozzle whose suction performance approaches that of the first head used alone, of the second head used alone or of a mix of the two heads.
  • the squeegee can combine both the performance of the first head, which has been the subject of in-depth studies and whose suction performance has been optimized to successfully pass the various performance tests, and that of the 'a second head to provide additional functionality such as dust removal in hard-to-reach areas.
  • the nozzle according to the invention has the advantage of being partly constituted by a first head, which can be standard and marketed in large quantities without being associated with the second head, and of a more specific second head which makes it possible to differentiate the nozzle according to the invention from the nozzle constituted by the first head alone.
  • the reuse of the first head with already established performance, makes it possible to reduce the development and production costs of the nozzle according to the invention.
  • the distributor means can occupy a first position in which they allow suction only through the first suction mouth and at least a second position in which they allow suction at least through the second suction mouth.
  • Such a nozzle has the advantage of being able to be used with a position of the distributing means in which the suction takes place only through the first head, making it possible to obtain suction performance similar to the nozzle usually constituted solely by the first head.
  • the distributor means in the second position, can occupy a position in which they allow suction only through the second suction mouth.
  • the second head includes a device for detecting an obstacle and the distributor means are moved automatically into the second position when the detection device detects an obstacle.
  • Such a characteristic makes it possible to favor suction as close as possible to the obstacle when the nozzle encounters an obstacle such as a skirting board.
  • the first head has a trapezoidal shape, advantageously rectangular.
  • Such a characteristic makes it possible to have a nozzle having a first head of usual shape and construction, the performance of which has been tested on other nozzles.
  • the second head has a smaller overall width than the first head.
  • Such a characteristic makes it possible to obtain a nozzle having both a first head having a width sufficient to ensure dust suction over a large width and a second head, placed in front of the first head, having a smaller width to suck more easily in corners of rooms or in corners.
  • the second head has a shape converging towards a front end of reduced width, the second head advantageously having a triangular shape.
  • Such a feature makes it possible to further optimize the ability of the nozzle to suck in corners.
  • the second head is triangular and the abutment means comprise two abutment strips arranged respectively along the two sides forming the tip of the triangular head.
  • the two abutment strips are mounted in pivot connection between them at the tip of the triangular head.
  • Other abutment means remain possible within the scope of the invention.
  • the orifice is preferably arranged in a bent part of the first suction duct.
  • sealing means are implemented between the obturator and the orifice to ensure leaktight closure of said orifice. This sealing makes it possible to optimize the suction performance by the first head.
  • At least a portion of the intermediate duct is flexible so as to allow freedom of movement between the first head and the second head. This freedom of movement allows the first head to work freely and correctly when vacuuming an open area, without interference from the second head.
  • the shutter consists of a valve mounted in a pivot connection, said valve being configured to pivot in a closed position of the orifice or in an open position. of the orifice, said valve being configured to close off the first suction mouth in its opening position of the orifice.
  • said sealing means are configured to ensure a seal between the valve and the first suction mouth in the open position of said valve.
  • the transmission means comprise at least one arm extending forwards the valve and at least one lever mounted in pivot connection and arranged between the at least one arm and the abutment means, the activation of the abutment means in contact with an obstacle causing the pivoting of the valve in the opening position of the orifice.
  • the transmission means comprise two arms on the valve and two levers arranged respectively between the two arms and the two aforementioned stop strips.
  • the transmission means comprise an element for returning the valve to the closing position of the orifice.
  • the shutter comprises a valve mounted in translation in the intermediate duct, said valve being configured to translate into a closed position of the orifice or into an open position of the orifice.
  • the nozzle allows suction both through the first suction mouth and through the second suction mouth when the triangular head encounters an obstacle.
  • the transmission means comprise a rotating part and at least one connecting rod arranged between the rotating part and the abutment means, the activation of abutment means in contact with an obstacle causing the rotation of the rotating part.
  • the transmission means comprise a cable arranged between the rotating part and the valve, the rotation of the rotating part allowing the cable to translate the valve into the opening position of the orifice.
  • the transmission means comprise an element for returning the valve to the position of closure of the orifice.
  • the nozzle comprises an end piece for connection to a rigid or flexible tube, said end piece being connected to a rear end of the first suction duct.
  • the nozzle comprises an articulation system arranged between the second head and the first head.
  • the articulation system is configured to allow an inclination of the lower face of the first head relative to the surface to be vacuumed while maintaining an orientation of the lower face of the second head that is substantially fixed relative to said surface to be vacuumed, and advantageously parallel to said surface to be sucked, during the movements from front to back, and vice versa, of said nozzle.
  • the first head of the nozzle according to the invention can comprise all the advantageous functions of nozzles, in particular with a rectangular head, currently existing, such as the functions making it possible to carry out an angular setting of the head, for example to scrape the surface while sucking it up.
  • the latter comprises at least one connecting rod, the two ends of which are mounted in a pivot connection respectively on the first head and on the second head.
  • the articulation system comprises two connecting rods.
  • the second head comprises a greater ground clearance than that of the first head.
  • connection endpiece is carried by a carriage which comprises two wheels mounted on an axle.
  • the articulation system is configured to allow pivoting of the second head around an axis parallel to the axis of rotation of the wheels.
  • the trolley comprises a fork, the rear part of which is mounted in a pivot connection along the axis of the wheels, on the one hand, and the front part of which is mounted in a pivot connection opposite of the first head, on the other hand.
  • the invention also relates to a vacuum cleaner comprising a nozzle having one and/or the other of the characteristics described above.
  • the vacuum cleaner will preferably be of the trolley vacuum cleaner type or of the broom vacuum cleaner type, well known to those skilled in the art.
  • vacuum cleaner nozzle is referred to as nozzle.
  • same references are used to define the same technical characteristics according to the various variant embodiments described.
  • the nozzle 1 comprises a first head 2, constituted by a rectangular head, and a second head 3, constituted by a triangular head.
  • the triangular head 3 defines a pointed shape which comprises a suction mouth 4 of rectangular shape allowing the nozzle 1 to more easily reach the surface to be sucked in the corners of a room or along baseboards.
  • the pointed shape of the nozzle 1 defines the front side; thus, the triangular head 3 extends the rectangular head 2 forwards.
  • the nozzle 1 is caused to be moved from rear to front and vice versa, during the suction of a surface 5.
  • the rectangular head 2 comprises a first suction duct 6 and a suction mouth 7 which is connected to the front end 6a of this first suction duct 6.
  • first suction duct 6 is bent at plus or minus ninety degrees (90°).
  • the suction mouth 7, called the first suction mouth has a rectangular shape which opens onto the lower face 8 of the said rectangular head 2.
  • the triangular head 3 comprises a second suction duct 9 whose front end 9a is connected to the suction mouth 4, called the second suction mouth, mentioned above.
  • the second suction mouth 4 of triangular shape opens onto the lower face 10 of said triangular head 3.
  • the nozzle 1 comprises a connection piece 11 which is designed to receive by fitting a rigid or flexible tube (not shown) of a vacuum cleaner (not shown) which may be a vacuum cleaner trolley or a broom vacuum cleaner.
  • a vacuum cleaner not shown
  • the connection piece 11 is connected to the rear end 6b of the first suction duct 6 of the rectangular head 2, via a flexible tube 12, shown schematically in dotted lines on the picture 2 .
  • the connection piece 11 is attached to a carriage 13 which comprises two wheels 14a, 14b mounted on the same axis 15.
  • This carriage 13 comprises a fork 16 whose rear part is mounted in pivot connection along the axis 15 of the wheels 14a , 14b, on the one hand, and whose front part is mounted in pivot connection along an axis 17 vis-à-vis the body 18 of the rectangular head 2, on the other hand.
  • the rectangular head 2 and the triangular head 3 are interconnected by means of two connecting rods 19, 20 whose rear ends 19a, 20a are mounted in pivot connection along the axis 17 vis-à-vis the body 18 of the head rectangular 2 and whose front ends 19b, 20b are mounted in pivot connection along an axis 21 vis-à-vis the body 22 of the triangular head 3.
  • the rectangular head 2 can be tilted or lifted slightly; the connecting rods 19, 20 ensure a flat displacement of the triangular head 3 vis-à-vis the rectangular head 2.
  • the triangular head 3 can move forward or backward vis-à-vis the rectangular head 2 , keeping the underside 10 of said triangular head 3 parallel to the surface 5 to be sucked.
  • the first suction duct 6 of the rectangular head 2 comprises an orifice 23 arranged in an upper bent part 24 of said first suction duct 6.
  • An intermediate duct 25 comprises a rigid rear part 250 whose rear end 250a communicates with the orifice 23 on the first suction duct 6 of the rectangular head 2.
  • This intermediate duct 25 also comprises a flexible front part 251 which extends the rigid rear part 250 and which has its front end 251a connected to the rear end of the second suction duct 9 of the triangular head 3.
  • This flexible front part 251 of the intermediate duct 25 allows the triangular head 3 to move freely flat, from front to back and vice versa, vis-à-vis the head rectangular 2, as explained above.
  • the nozzle 1 comprises a valve 26 which has a curved shape allowing it to fit suitably the orifice 23 in a closed position thereof, illustrated in figure 2 And 4 .
  • the valve 26 comprises a rigid body 27 and a lip 28 arranged on the periphery of the body 27.
  • This lip 28 is for example made of an elastomeric material and makes it possible to ensure a seal with the periphery 29 of the orifice 23 on which it is pressed in the closed position of said orifice 23.
  • the valve 26 is mounted in pivot connection along an axis 30 vis-à-vis of the first suction duct 6 of the rectangular head 2, which allows it to pivot either in the closed position of the orifice 23, as illustrated in figure 2 , 4 and 5 , or in the open position of the orifice 23, as illustrated in picture 3 , open position in which the lip 28 of the valve 26 bears against the lower angled part 31 of the said first suction duct 6 to close it tightly and thus close the first suction mouth 7 of the rectangular head 2
  • the suction illustrated by the arrow 32 on the picture 2
  • the suction is carried out only by the second suction mouth 4 of the triangular head 3.
  • the triangular head 3 comprises two abutment strips 34, 35 which extend respectively along the two sides 36, 37 of the body 22 forming the tip 38 of the nozzle 1. These two abutment strips 34, 35 are mounted in pivot connection between them along an axis 39 at the level of the tip 38.
  • the rear ends 34a, 35a of the stop bars 34, 35 each comprise a finger 40, 41.
  • two connecting rods 42, 43 are secured together by means of a shaft 44 and are mounted in pivot connection along an axis 45 vis-à-vis the body 22 of the triangular head 3.
  • These two connecting rods 42, 43 each comprise a front part 42a, 43a provided with a front roller 46, 47, the front rollers 46, 47 bearing respectively under the fingers 40, 41 of the stop bars 34, 35.
  • the valve 26 is extended forwards by two arms 48, 49 each having a hook shape, as shown in the figure 6 .
  • the arms 48, 49 are integral with the valve 26. These two arms 48, 49 respectively receive two rear rollers 50, 51 arranged on the rear parts 42b, 43b of the connecting rods 42, 43, as illustrated by the figure 5 And 6 .
  • the squeegee 1 has the same characteristics as those previously described with regard to the figures 1 to 6 , except that the shutter formed of the valve 26 is replaced by a shutter formed of an elastically deformable membrane 58.
  • the membrane 58 is mounted in a chamber 59 arranged on the rigid rear part 250 of the intermediate duct 25 (the flexible front part 251 of the intermediate duct 25 is not illustrated on the figure 7 And 8 , for better visibility of the other parts).
  • the membrane 58 In the state of rest, the membrane 58 has a default shape, illustrated in figure 8 where the perimeter of the membrane has a lip 580 which rests on the edge of the orifice 23. In this initial position, which corresponds to a closed position of the orifice 23, the aspiration is carried out only by the first mouth of suction 7 of the rectangular head 2.
  • the membrane 58 can be deformed to be brought into an opening position of the orifice 23, illustrated in the figure 9 , by exerting upward traction on this membrane 58 by means of a cable 60 mounted to slide in a sheath 61.
  • the suction is carried out concomitantly by the first suction mouth 7 of the rectangular head 2 and by the second suction mouth 4 of the triangular head 3.
  • a first end 60a of the cable 60 is fixed to the membrane 58 and a second end 60b of the cable 60 is fixed to a rotary part 62.
  • the rotation of the rotary part 62 in a first direction makes it possible to pull on the cable 60 and, thus, to deform the membrane 58 upwards, in the chamber 59.
  • the rotation of the rotary part 62 in a second direction makes it possible to release the cable 60 and, thus, to release the tensile force on the membrane 58 so that the latter regains its initial shape in which it closes the orifice 23.
  • the rotation of the rotating part 62 in the first direction is ensured when one or the other of the stop strips 34, 35, or even both simultaneously, comes into contact with an obstacle.
  • two connecting rods 63, 64 are arranged respectively between the rotary part 62 and the rear ends 34a, 35a of the two stop bars 34, 35.
  • these connecting rods 63, 64 transform the pivoting of one and/or the other of the stop bars 34, 35 along the axis 39 at the tip 38, in one rotation of the rotary part 62 in the first direction.
  • the rotation of the rotating part in the second direction is ensured by a helical return spring, when the triangular head 3 leaves the obstacle. This rotation of the rotating part 62 in the second direction ensures the return to the normal position of the stop bars 34, 35 via the connecting rods 63, 64.
  • the ground clearance of the triangular head 3 that is to say the space separating its lower face 10 from the surface 5 is greater than the ground clearance of the rectangular head 2, that is to say the space separating its lower face 8 from the surface 5.
  • This increase in the ground clearance of the triangular head 3 is intended to avoid to retain the dust at the level of the second suction mouth 4, in particular when the sucked surface 5 is carpet, the hairs of which may be more or less long.
  • the pivot connection between the two abutment strips 34, 35 could be replaced by an assembly in translation of these abutment strips 34, 35 vis-à-vis the sides 36, 37 of the body 22 of the head triangular 3.
  • the two embodiment variants described with regard to the figures 1 to 8 ensure a switching of the suction either by the first suction mouth 7 of the rectangular head 2 (in the case of the valve 26 or the valve 60 in the closed position of the orifice 23), or by the second mouth of suction 4 of the triangular head 3 (in the case of the valve 26 in the opening position of the orifice 23), either by both the first suction mouth 7 of the rectangular head 2 and by the second mouth of suction 4 of the triangular head 3 (in the case of the valve 60 in the open position of the orifice 23).
  • Other referral systems could be considered.
  • first suction duct 6 of the rectangular head 2 and the second suction duct 9 of the triangular head 3 could be connected to two inlets of a manifold, said manifold comprising an outlet connected to the tip of connection 11 of the squeegee 1, said collector comprising a valve making it possible to switch to the first inlet and/or to the second inlet to suck up the dust either by the first suction mouth 7 of the rectangular head 2, or by the second mouth of suction 4 of the triangular head 3, or even by the two suction mouths 7, 4 simultaneously.
  • Proximity sensors will then be arranged on the sides 36, 37 of the body 22 of the triangular head 3, instead of the stop bars 34, 35, and will allow the activation of an actuator acting on the valve in the manifold .
  • the second head may be connected by an articulation directly to the axis of the wheels of the carriage or to the connection end piece and not to the first head.
  • the first head may comprise a shape different from that described in the embodiment illustrated above.
  • the first head may have a substantially trapezoidal shape with a rear edge slightly larger than the front edge.
  • the side edges of the first head may also be slightly curved.
  • the first head may also have an oblong shape.
  • the second head has a rear edge having a width less than the width of the front edge of the first head and a shape converging towards a front end of smaller width.
  • the second head may have a front edge of arcuate shape having for example the shape of a semicircle.
  • the distributing means making it possible to modify the distribution of the suction between the first suction mouth and the second suction mouth may comprise a valve, or a shutter, motorized and controlled electrically by switches associated with the stop strips arranged on the front end of the second head.
  • the motorized flap or the motorized shutter can also be controlled by an electronic card according to the signal emitted by a device for detecting an obstacle advantageously comprising proximity sensors carried by the nozzle, these sensors proximity which can for example consist of an optical sensor, a capacitive sensor or an ultrasonic sensor.
  • the obstacle detection device may also make use of an image analysis using a camera.
  • the distributor means may comprise a valve or a shutter, the positioning of which is controlled mechanically or electrically by means of a control button allowing the user to manually select the mode of operation of the nozzle that he wishes to use from among the different operating modes offered such as: suction only through the first head, suction only through the second head, or combined suction through both heads.

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention concerne le domaine des aspirateurs et porte tout particulièrement sur la conception du suceur d'aspirateur, encore appelé tête de succion ou tête d'aspiration, par lequel sont aspirées les poussières.The present invention relates to the field of vacuum cleaners and relates more particularly to the design of the vacuum cleaner nozzle, also called the suction head or suction head, by which the dust is sucked up.

L'invention vise à concevoir un suceur d'aspirateur qui assure une aspiration optimale sur toute la surface à aspirer, malgré la présence éventuelle d'obstacles.The invention aims to design a vacuum cleaner nozzle which ensures optimum suction over the entire surface to be sucked, despite the possible presence of obstacles.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

Un suceur d'aspirateur selon le préambule de la revendication 1 est connu de par exemple US-A-20140033473 . Traditionnellement, les aspirateurs de type aspirateur chariot ou de type aspirateur balai comprennent un suceur constitué d'une tête qui présente soit une forme rectangulaire soit une forme triangulaire.A vacuum cleaner nozzle according to the preamble of claim 1 is known from for example US-A-20140033473 . Traditionally, vacuum cleaners of the cart vacuum type or of the broom type vacuum cleaner comprise a nozzle consisting of a head which has either a rectangular shape or a triangular shape.

Les dernières conceptions de suceurs à tête rectangulaire permettent de dépoussiérer efficacement tous types de surfaces, par exemple les moquettes, les tapis, les sols lisses, les parquets ou autres, les performances les plus difficiles à atteindre étant sur des moquettes. En particulier, l'arrivée des étiquettes énergie dans le domaine des aspirateurs a conduit les constructeurs à réduire la puissance des moteurs d'aspirateur et donc le débit d'air aspiré et à développer des suceurs à tête rectangulaire conservant des performances d'aspiration maximales avec un débit d'air aspiré plus faible.The latest designs of rectangular head nozzles can effectively dust all types of surfaces, for example carpets, rugs, smooth floors, parquet or other, the most difficult performance to achieve being on carpets. In particular, the arrival of energy labels in the field of vacuum cleaners has led manufacturers to reduce the power of vacuum cleaner motors and therefore the flow of air sucked in and to develop nozzles with rectangular heads maintaining maximum suction performance. with a lower intake air flow.

De tels suceurs à tête rectangulaire ne permettent cependant pas un accès convenable dans les angles de pièces et le long de plinthes. L'efficacité du dépoussiérage est en effet bien meilleur dans les angles de pièces ou le long des plinthes en utilisant un suceur à tête triangulaire.However, such rectangular head nozzles do not allow suitable access in the corners of rooms and along baseboards. The effectiveness of dusting is indeed much better in the corners of rooms or along baseboards using a nozzle with a triangular head.

Il conviendrait donc idéalement d'équiper chaque aspirateur de deux suceurs, l'un constitué d'une tête rectangulaire et l'autre constitué d'une tête triangulaire, afin de disposer des performances optimales dans toutes les circonstances (surfaces dégagées ou en présence d'obstacles tels qu'un angle de pièce, une plinthe ou un mobilier).It would therefore ideally be appropriate to equip each vacuum cleaner with two nozzles, one consisting of a rectangular head and the other consisting of a triangular head, in order to have optimal performance in all circumstances (open surfaces or in the presence of obstacles such as a room corner, baseboard or furniture).

Certaines conceptions de suceurs à tête rectangulaire cherchent à pallier cet inconvénient.Some designs of rectangular head nozzles seek to overcome this drawback.

Dans le brevet US3936903 , il est décrit un suceur à tête rectangulaire dont le flux d'air est modifiable pour favoriser une aspiration dans les angles de pièces.In the patent US3936903 , a nozzle with a rectangular head is described, the air flow of which can be modified to promote suction in the corners of rooms.

Dans le brevet US7051401 , il est décrit un suceur à tête rectangulaire qui comprend en complément un dispositif d'aspiration dans les coins, positionné sur le côté de la tête rectangulaire.In the patent US7051401 , a nozzle with a rectangular head is described which additionally comprises a suction device in the corners, positioned on the side of the rectangular head.

Dans le brevet GB2402329A , le suceur est constitué d'une tête d'aspiration comportant deux éléments latéraux rectangulaires aptes à se replier pour une aspiration dans les angles de pièces.In the patent GB2402329A , the nozzle consists of a suction head comprising two rectangular side elements capable of folding up for suction in the corners of rooms.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

La présente invention a pour objectif de concevoir un suceur permettant de pallier les inconvénients précités.The object of the present invention is to design a nozzle making it possible to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne un suceur d'aspirateur conçu pour être déplacé sur une surface à aspirer. Le suceur comprend une première tête, avantageusement rectangulaire, qui comprend un premier conduit d'aspiration raccordé à une première bouche d'aspiration agencée sur une face inférieure de ladite première tête.To this end, the invention relates to a vacuum cleaner nozzle designed to be moved over a surface to be vacuumed. The nozzle comprises a first head, advantageously rectangular, which comprises a first suction duct connected to a first suction mouth arranged on an underside of said first head.

Selon l'invention, le suceur comprend une deuxième tête, avantageusement triangulaire, qui prolonge vers l'avant la première tête. La deuxième tête comprend un second conduit d'aspiration raccordé à une seconde bouche d'aspiration agencée sur une face inférieure de ladite deuxième tête. La deuxième tête présente un encombrement en largeur plus faible que la première tête.According to the invention, the nozzle comprises a second head, advantageously triangular, which extends the first head forwards. The second head comprises a second suction duct connected to a second suction mouth arranged on an underside of said second head. The second head has a smaller overall width than the first head.

En outre, selon l'invention, le suceur comprend des moyens répartiteurs permettant de modifier la répartition de l'aspiration entre la première bouche d'aspiration et la seconde bouche d'aspiration.Furthermore, according to the invention, the nozzle comprises distribution means making it possible to modify the distribution of the suction between the first suction mouth and the second suction mouth.

Une telle caractéristique permet d'avoir un suceur dont les performances d'aspiration et l'ergonomie d'utilisation peuvent être fortement modifiées en modifiant la répartition de l'aspiration entre les deux têtes. On peut ainsi obtenir un suceur dont les performances d'aspiration s'approchent de celles de la première tête utilisée seule, de la deuxième tête utilisée seule ou d'un mix des deux têtes.Such a characteristic makes it possible to have a nozzle whose suction performance and the ergonomics of use can be greatly modified by modifying the distribution of the suction between the two heads. It is thus possible to obtain a nozzle whose suction performance approaches that of the first head used alone, of the second head used alone or of a mix of the two heads.

Ainsi, le suceur peut combiner à la fois les performances de la première tête, qui a pu faire l'objet d'études approfondies et dont les performances d'aspiration ont été optimisées pour passer avec succès les différents tests de performance, et celles d'une deuxième tête permettant d'apporter une fonctionnalité supplémentaire comme par exemple un dépoussiérage dans zone difficile d'accès.Thus, the squeegee can combine both the performance of the first head, which has been the subject of in-depth studies and whose suction performance has been optimized to successfully pass the various performance tests, and that of the 'a second head to provide additional functionality such as dust removal in hard-to-reach areas.

En particulier, le suceur selon l'invention présente l'avantage d'être pour partie constitué par une première tête, qui peut être standard et commercialisée en grande quantité sans être associée à la deuxième tête, et d'une deuxième tête plus spécifique qui permet de différencier le suceur selon l'invention du suceur constitué par la seule première tête. Ainsi, la réutilisation de la première tête, aux performances déjà établies, permet de réduire les coûts de développement et de production du suceur selon l'invention.In particular, the nozzle according to the invention has the advantage of being partly constituted by a first head, which can be standard and marketed in large quantities without being associated with the second head, and of a more specific second head which makes it possible to differentiate the nozzle according to the invention from the nozzle constituted by the first head alone. Thus, the reuse of the first head, with already established performance, makes it possible to reduce the development and production costs of the nozzle according to the invention.

Selon une conception préférentielle du suceur, les moyens répartiteurs peuvent occuper une première position dans laquelle ils permettent une aspiration uniquement par la première bouche d'aspiration et au moins une deuxième position dans laquelle ils permettent une aspiration au moins par la seconde bouche d'aspiration.According to a preferred design of the nozzle, the distributor means can occupy a first position in which they allow suction only through the first suction mouth and at least a second position in which they allow suction at least through the second suction mouth. .

Un tel suceur présente l'avantage de pouvoir être utilisé avec une position des moyens répartiteurs dans laquelle l'aspiration ne s'effectue qu'au travers de la première tête, permettant d'obtenir des performances d'aspiration similaires au suceur habituellement constitué uniquement par la première tête.Such a nozzle has the advantage of being able to be used with a position of the distributing means in which the suction takes place only through the first head, making it possible to obtain suction performance similar to the nozzle usually constituted solely by the first head.

Selon une conception du suceur, dans la deuxième position, les moyens répartiteurs peuvent occuper une position dans laquelle ils permettent une aspiration uniquement par la seconde bouche d'aspiration.According to one design of the nozzle, in the second position, the distributor means can occupy a position in which they allow suction only through the second suction mouth.

Selon une autre conception du suceur, la deuxième tête comporte un dispositif de détection d'un obstacle et les moyens répartiteurs sont déplacés automatiquement dans la deuxième position lorsque le dispositif de détection détecte un obstacle.According to another design of the nozzle, the second head includes a device for detecting an obstacle and the distributor means are moved automatically into the second position when the detection device detects an obstacle.

Une telle caractéristique permet de privilégier l'aspiration au plus près de l'obstacle lorsque le suceur rencontre un obstacle telle une plinthe.Such a characteristic makes it possible to favor suction as close as possible to the obstacle when the nozzle encounters an obstacle such as a skirting board.

Selon une autre conception du suceur, la première tête présente une forme trapézoïdale, avantageusement rectangulaire.According to another design of the nozzle, the first head has a trapezoidal shape, advantageously rectangular.

Une telle caractéristique permet d'avoir un suceur présentant une première tête de forme et construction habituelles, dont les performances ont été éprouvées sur d'autres suceurs.Such a characteristic makes it possible to have a nozzle having a first head of usual shape and construction, the performance of which has been tested on other nozzles.

La deuxième tête présente un encombrement en largeur plus faible que la première tête.The second head has a smaller overall width than the first head.

Une telle caractéristique permet d'obtenir un suceur présentant à la fois une première tête présentant une largeur suffisante pour assurer une aspiration des poussières sur une grande largeur et une deuxième tête, disposée devant la première tête, présentant une largeur moindre pour aspirer plus facilement dans les angles des pièces ou dans les recoins.Such a characteristic makes it possible to obtain a nozzle having both a first head having a width sufficient to ensure dust suction over a large width and a second head, placed in front of the first head, having a smaller width to suck more easily in corners of rooms or in corners.

Selon une conception du suceur, la deuxième tête présente une forme convergeant vers une extrémité avant de largeur réduite, la deuxième tête présentant avantageusement une forme triangulaire.According to one design of the nozzle, the second head has a shape converging towards a front end of reduced width, the second head advantageously having a triangular shape.

Une telle caractéristique permet d'optimiser encore la faculté du suceur à aspirer dans les coins.Such a feature makes it possible to further optimize the ability of the nozzle to suck in corners.

Selon une conception du suceur, les moyens répartiteurs comportent un système d'aiguillage comprenant :

  • un conduit intermédiaire qui comprend une extrémité avant et une extrémité arrière, l'extrémité avant étant raccordée à une extrémité arrière du second conduit d'aspiration et l'extrémité arrière débouchant sur un orifice agencé sur le premier conduit d'aspiration,
  • un obturateur configuré pour être déplacé dans une position de fermeture de l'orifice et dans une position d'ouverture de l'orifice,
  • des moyens de commande permettant de déplacer l'obturateur de sa position de fermeture à sa position d'ouverture et vice-versa.
According to one design of the nozzle, the distributor means comprise a referral system comprising:
  • an intermediate duct which comprises a front end and a rear end, the front end being connected to a rear end of the second suction duct and the rear end leading to an orifice arranged on the first suction duct,
  • a shutter configured to be moved into a closed position of the orifice and into an open position of the orifice,
  • control means for moving the shutter from its closed position to its open position and vice versa.

Selon une conception du suceur, les moyens de commande comprennent :

  • des moyens de butée agencés sur deux côtés au voisinage de l'extrémité avant de la deuxième tête,
  • des moyens de transmission agencés entre les moyens de butée et l'obturateur et configurés pour déplacer l'obturateur dans sa position de fermeture en condition normale d'utilisation et dans sa position d'ouverture lorsque les moyens de butée entrent en contact avec l'obstacle.
According to one design of the nozzle, the control means include:
  • abutment means arranged on two sides in the vicinity of the front end of the second head,
  • transmission means arranged between the abutment means and the shutter and configured to move the shutter into its closed position under normal conditions of use and into its open position when the abutment means come into contact with the obstacle.

En condition normale d'utilisation, c'est-à-dire lorsque la surface à aspirer est dégagée (sans obstacles), seule la première tête assure une aspiration de la surface, l'aspiration par la deuxième tête étant condamnée. Lorsque le suceur rencontre un obstacle, par exemple un angle de pièce, une plinthe le long d'une paroi ou un mobilier, soit seule la deuxième tête assure une aspiration de la surface, l'aspiration par la première tête étant condamnée, soit à la fois la première tête et la deuxième tête assurent une aspiration.Under normal conditions of use, that is to say when the surface to be vacuumed is clear (without obstacles), only the first head ensures suction of the surface, the suction by the second head being condemned. When the nozzle encounters an obstacle, for example a corner of a room, a skirting board along a wall or furniture, either only the second head ensures suction of the surface, suction by the first head being blocked, or both the first head and the second head provide suction.

Selon une conception du suceur, la deuxième tête est triangulaire et les moyens de butée comprennent deux barrettes de butée agencées respectivement sur le long des deux côtés formant la pointe de la tête triangulaire. De préférence, les deux barrettes de butée sont montées en liaison pivot entre elles au niveau de la pointe de la tête triangulaire. D'autres moyens de butée restent envisageables dans le cadre de l'invention.According to one design of the nozzle, the second head is triangular and the abutment means comprise two abutment strips arranged respectively along the two sides forming the tip of the triangular head. Preferably, the two abutment strips are mounted in pivot connection between them at the tip of the triangular head. Other abutment means remain possible within the scope of the invention.

Selon cette conception préférentielle du suceur, l'orifice est préférentiellement agencé dans une partie coudée du premier conduit d'aspiration.According to this preferred design of the nozzle, the orifice is preferably arranged in a bent part of the first suction duct.

Selon cette conception préférentielle du suceur, des moyens d'étanchéité sont mis en oeuvre entre l'obturateur et l'orifice pour assurer une fermeture étanche dudit orifice. Cette étanchéité permet d'optimiser les performances d'aspiration par la première tête.According to this preferred design of the nozzle, sealing means are implemented between the obturator and the orifice to ensure leaktight closure of said orifice. This sealing makes it possible to optimize the suction performance by the first head.

Selon cette conception préférentielle du suceur, au moins une portion du conduit intermédiaire est souple de sorte à laisser une liberté de mouvement entre la première tête et la deuxième tête. Cette liberté de mouvement permet à la première tête de travailler librement et correctement durant l'aspiration d'une surface dégagée, sans interférence de la deuxième tête.According to this preferred design of the nozzle, at least a portion of the intermediate duct is flexible so as to allow freedom of movement between the first head and the second head. This freedom of movement allows the first head to work freely and correctly when vacuuming an open area, without interference from the second head.

Selon cette conception préférentielle du suceur, dans une première variante de réalisation, l'obturateur est constitué d'un clapet monté en liaison pivot, ledit clapet étant configuré pour pivoter dans une position de fermeture de l'orifice ou dans une position d'ouverture de l'orifice, ledit clapet étant configuré pour obturer la première bouche d'aspiration dans sa position d'ouverture de l'orifice. Ainsi, le suceur permet une aspiration uniquement par la seconde bouche d'aspiration lorsque la tête triangulaire est en butée contre un obstacle.According to this preferred design of the nozzle, in a first variant embodiment, the shutter consists of a valve mounted in a pivot connection, said valve being configured to pivot in a closed position of the orifice or in an open position. of the orifice, said valve being configured to close off the first suction mouth in its opening position of the orifice. Thus, the nozzle allows suction only through the second suction mouth when the triangular head is in abutment against an obstacle.

Selon cette première réalisation de l'obturateur, en la présence des moyens d'étanchéité précités, lesdits moyens d'étanchéité sont configurés pour assurer une étanchéité entre le clapet et la première bouche d'aspiration dans la position d'ouverture dudit clapet.According to this first embodiment of the shutter, in the presence of the aforementioned sealing means, said sealing means are configured to ensure a seal between the valve and the first suction mouth in the open position of said valve.

Selon cette première réalisation de l'obturateur, les moyens de transmission comprennent au moins un bras prolongeant vers l'avant le clapet et au moins un levier monté en liaison pivot et agencé entre l'au moins un bras et les moyens de butée, l'activation des moyens du butée au contact d'un obstacle entraînant le pivotement du clapet en position d'ouverture de l'orifice. De préférence, les moyens de transmission comprennent deux bras sur le clapet et deux leviers agencés respectivement entre les deux bras et les deux barrettes de butée précitées.According to this first embodiment of the shutter, the transmission means comprise at least one arm extending forwards the valve and at least one lever mounted in pivot connection and arranged between the at least one arm and the abutment means, the activation of the abutment means in contact with an obstacle causing the pivoting of the valve in the opening position of the orifice. Preferably, the transmission means comprise two arms on the valve and two levers arranged respectively between the two arms and the two aforementioned stop strips.

Selon cette première réalisation de l'obturateur, les moyens de transmission comprennent un élément de rappel du clapet en position de fermeture de l'orifice. Ainsi, lorsque le suceur est dégagé de l'obstacle, celui-ci coupe le mode d'aspiration par la deuxième tête et repasse instantanément sur le mode d'aspiration par la première tête.According to this first embodiment of the shutter, the transmission means comprise an element for returning the valve to the closing position of the orifice. Thus, when the squeegee is clear of the obstacle, it cuts off the suction mode by the second head and instantly switches back to the suction mode by the first head.

Selon la conception préférentielle du suceur, dans une seconde variante de réalisation, l'obturateur comprend une soupape montée en translation dans le conduit intermédiaire, ladite soupape étant configurée pour translater dans une position de fermeture de l'orifice ou dans une position d'ouverture de l'orifice. Ainsi, le suceur permet une aspiration à la fois par la première bouche d'aspiration et par la seconde bouche d'aspiration lorsque la tête triangulaire rencontre un obstacle.According to the preferred design of the nozzle, in a second variant embodiment, the shutter comprises a valve mounted in translation in the intermediate duct, said valve being configured to translate into a closed position of the orifice or into an open position of the orifice. Thus, the nozzle allows suction both through the first suction mouth and through the second suction mouth when the triangular head encounters an obstacle.

Selon cette seconde variante de réalisation de l'obturateur, les moyens de transmission comprennent une pièce rotative et au moins une bielle agencée entre la pièce rotative et les moyens de butée, l'activation de moyens de butée au contact d'un obstacle entraînant la rotation de la pièce rotative. En outre, les moyens de transmission comprennent un câble agencé entre la pièce rotative et la soupape, la rotation de la pièce rotative permettant au câble de translater la soupape dans la position d'ouverture de l'orifice.According to this second alternative embodiment of the shutter, the transmission means comprise a rotating part and at least one connecting rod arranged between the rotating part and the abutment means, the activation of abutment means in contact with an obstacle causing the rotation of the rotating part. Furthermore, the transmission means comprise a cable arranged between the rotating part and the valve, the rotation of the rotating part allowing the cable to translate the valve into the opening position of the orifice.

Selon cette seconde variante de réalisation de l'obturateur, les moyens de transmission comprennent un élément de rappel de la soupape en position de fermeture de l'orifice. Ainsi, lorsque le suceur est dégagé de l'obstacle, celui-ci coupe le mode d'aspiration par la deuxième tête et repasse instantanément sur le mode d'aspiration par la première tête, uniquement.According to this second alternative embodiment of the shutter, the transmission means comprise an element for returning the valve to the position of closure of the orifice. Thus, when the squeegee is clear of the obstacle, it cuts off the suction mode by the second head and instantly returns to the suction mode by the first head only.

Selon l'invention, le suceur comprend un embout de raccordement à un tube rigide ou flexible, ledit embout étant connecté à une extrémité arrière du premier conduit d'aspiration.According to the invention, the nozzle comprises an end piece for connection to a rigid or flexible tube, said end piece being connected to a rear end of the first suction duct.

Selon l'invention, le suceur comprend un système d'articulation agencé entre la deuxième tête et la première tête. Le système d'articulation est configuré pour permettre une inclinaison de la face inférieure de la première tête par rapport à la surface à aspirer tout en conservant une orientation de la face inférieure de la deuxième tête sensiblement fixe par rapport à ladite surface à aspirer, et avantageusement parallèle à ladite surface à aspirer, durant les déplacements d'avant en arrière, et inversement, dudit suceur. Ainsi, la première tête du suceur selon l'invention peut comporter toutes les fonctions avantageuses des suceurs, notamment à tête rectangulaire, existant actuellement, telles que les fonctions permettant d'effectuer un calage angulaire de la tête, par exemple pour gratter la surface tout en l'aspirant.According to the invention, the nozzle comprises an articulation system arranged between the second head and the first head. The articulation system is configured to allow an inclination of the lower face of the first head relative to the surface to be vacuumed while maintaining an orientation of the lower face of the second head that is substantially fixed relative to said surface to be vacuumed, and advantageously parallel to said surface to be sucked, during the movements from front to back, and vice versa, of said nozzle. Thus, the first head of the nozzle according to the invention can comprise all the advantageous functions of nozzles, in particular with a rectangular head, currently existing, such as the functions making it possible to carry out an angular setting of the head, for example to scrape the surface while sucking it up.

Selon une réalisation du système d'articulation, celui-ci comprend au moins une bielle dont les deux extrémités sont montées en liaison pivot respectivement sur la première tête et sur la deuxième tête. De préférence, le système d'articulation comprend deux bielles.According to one embodiment of the articulation system, the latter comprises at least one connecting rod, the two ends of which are mounted in a pivot connection respectively on the first head and on the second head. Preferably, the articulation system comprises two connecting rods.

Selon le suceur objet de l'invention, la deuxième tête comprend une garde au sol plus importante que celle de la première tête. Cela permet de conserver toute l'efficacité du dépoussiérage, notamment lors de l'aspiration de surface de type moquette ; cette garde au sol plus importante pour la deuxième tête, disposée devant la première tête, garantit en effet que la face inférieure de ladite deuxième tête ne touche pas la surface, notamment dans le cas de moquettes, ce qui aurait pour incidence de retenir la poussière sur la surface durant l'aspiration par la première tête.According to the nozzle object of the invention, the second head comprises a greater ground clearance than that of the first head. This makes it possible to retain all the effectiveness of dust removal, in particular when vacuuming a carpet-type surface; this greater ground clearance for the second head, arranged in front of the first head, in fact guarantees that the underside of said second head does not touch the surface, in particular in the case of carpets, which would have the effect of retaining dust on the surface during suction by the first head.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, l'embout de raccordement est porté par un chariot qui comporte deux roues montées sur un axe.According to another characteristic of the invention, the connection endpiece is carried by a carriage which comprises two wheels mounted on an axle.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le système d'articulation est configuré pour permettre un pivotement de la deuxième tête autour d'un axe parallèle à l'axe de rotation des roues.According to another characteristic of the invention, the articulation system is configured to allow pivoting of the second head around an axis parallel to the axis of rotation of the wheels.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le chariot comprend une fourche dont la partie arrière est montée en liaison pivot selon l'axe des roues, d'une part, et dont la partie avant est montée en liaison pivot vis-à-vis de la première tête, d'autre part.According to another characteristic of the invention, the trolley comprises a fork, the rear part of which is mounted in a pivot connection along the axis of the wheels, on the one hand, and the front part of which is mounted in a pivot connection opposite of the first head, on the other hand.

L'invention concerne également un aspirateur comprenant un suceur présentant l'une et/ou l'autre des caractéristiques décrites précédemment. L'aspirateur sera de préférence de type aspirateur chariot ou de type aspirateur balai, bien connu de l'homme du métier.The invention also relates to a vacuum cleaner comprising a nozzle having one and/or the other of the characteristics described above. The vacuum cleaner will preferably be of the trolley vacuum cleaner type or of the broom vacuum cleaner type, well known to those skilled in the art.

Brève description des figuresBrief description of figures

La description suivante met en évidence les caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention. Cette description s'appuie sur des figures, parmi lesquelles :

  • La figure 1 illustre une vue d'ensemble du suceur selon un premier mode de réalisation, avec une première tête qui est avantageusement rectangulaire et une deuxième tête qui est avantageusement triangulaire ;
  • La figure 2 illustre le suceur de la figure 1 selon une vue en coupe de côté, dans un mode d'aspiration par la tête rectangulaire uniquement ;
  • La figure 3 illustre le suceur de la figure 1 selon une vue en coupe de côté, dans un mode d'aspiration par la tête triangulaire uniquement ;
  • La figure 4 met en évidence une conception d'un obturateur fermant étanchement un orifice sur le premier conduit d'aspiration de la tête rectangulaire ;
  • Les figures 5 et 6 mettent en évidence une conception des moyens de butée et des moyens de transmission entre un obturateur et lesdits moyens de butée ;
  • Les figures 7 à 9 mettent en évidence une variante d'obturateur et une variante de conception des moyens de butée et des moyens de transmission entre l'obturateur et lesdits moyens de butée, l'aspiration se faisant uniquement par la tête rectangulaire dans la position illustrée en figure 8 et se faisant à la fois par la tête rectangulaire et par la tête triangulaire dans la position illustrée en figure 9.
The following description highlights the features and advantages of the present invention. This description is based on figures, including:
  • There figure 1 illustrates an overall view of the nozzle according to a first embodiment, with a first head which is advantageously rectangular and a second head which is advantageously triangular;
  • There figure 2 illustrates the sucker of the figure 1 in a side sectional view, in a mode of suction by the rectangular head only;
  • There picture 3 illustrates the sucker of the figure 1 in a side sectional view, in a suction mode by the triangular head only;
  • There figure 4 highlights a design of a shutter sealing an orifice on the first suction duct of the rectangular head;
  • THE figure 5 And 6 highlight a design of the abutment means and of the transmission means between a shutter and said abutment means;
  • THE figures 7 to 9 highlight a shutter variant and a design variant of the abutment means and of the transmission means between the shutter and said abutment means, the suction taking place only through the rectangular head in the position illustrated in figure 8 and being made both by the rectangular head and by the triangular head in the position illustrated in figure 9 .

Description détailléedetailed description

Dans la suite de la description, le suceur d'aspirateur est dénommé suceur. En outre, les mêmes références sont utilisées pour définir les mêmes caractéristiques techniques selon les diverses variantes de réalisation décrites.In the remainder of the description, the vacuum cleaner nozzle is referred to as nozzle. In addition, the same references are used to define the same technical characteristics according to the various variant embodiments described.

Sur la figure 1, le suceur 1 comprend une première tête 2, constituée par une tête rectangulaire, et une deuxième tête 3, constituée par une tête triangulaire. La tête triangulaire 3 définit une forme en pointe qui comprend une bouche d'aspiration 4 de forme rectangulaire permettant au suceur 1 d'atteindre plus facilement la surface à aspirer dans les angles d'une pièce ou le long des plinthes.On the figure 1 , the nozzle 1 comprises a first head 2, constituted by a rectangular head, and a second head 3, constituted by a triangular head. The triangular head 3 defines a pointed shape which comprises a suction mouth 4 of rectangular shape allowing the nozzle 1 to more easily reach the surface to be sucked in the corners of a room or along baseboards.

La forme en pointe du suceur 1 définit le côté avant ; ainsi, la tête triangulaire 3 prolonge vers l'avant la tête rectangulaire 2. Le suceur 1 est amené à être déplacé d'arrière en avant et inversement, durant l'aspiration d'une surface 5.The pointed shape of the nozzle 1 defines the front side; thus, the triangular head 3 extends the rectangular head 2 forwards. The nozzle 1 is caused to be moved from rear to front and vice versa, during the suction of a surface 5.

Tel que l'illustrent les figures 1 à 3, la tête rectangulaire 2 comprend un premier conduit d'aspiration 6 et une bouche d'aspiration 7 qui est raccordée sur l'extrémité avant 6a de ce premier conduit d'aspiration 6. On constate sur les figures 2 et 3 que le premier conduit d'aspiration 6 est coudé à plus ou moins quatre-vingt-dix degrés (90°). La bouche d'aspiration 7, dite première bouche d'aspiration, présente une forme rectangulaire qui débouche sur la face inférieure 8 de ladite tête rectangulaire 2.As illustrated by the figures 1 to 3 , the rectangular head 2 comprises a first suction duct 6 and a suction mouth 7 which is connected to the front end 6a of this first suction duct 6. figures 2 and 3 that the first suction duct 6 is bent at plus or minus ninety degrees (90°). The suction mouth 7, called the first suction mouth, has a rectangular shape which opens onto the lower face 8 of the said rectangular head 2.

De même, comme l'illustrent les figures 1 à 3, la tête triangulaire 3 comprend un second conduit d'aspiration 9 dont l'extrémité avant 9a est raccordée à la bouche d'aspiration 4, dite seconde bouche d'aspiration, citée ci-dessus. La seconde bouche d'aspiration 4, de forme triangulaire, débouche sur la face inférieure 10 de ladite tête triangulaire 3.Likewise, as illustrated by the figures 1 to 3 , the triangular head 3 comprises a second suction duct 9 whose front end 9a is connected to the suction mouth 4, called the second suction mouth, mentioned above. The second suction mouth 4, of triangular shape, opens onto the lower face 10 of said triangular head 3.

Tel qu'illustré sur les figures 1 et 2, le suceur 1 comprend un embout de raccordement 11 qui est conçu pour recevoir par emboîtement un tube rigide ou souple (non illustré) d'un aspirateur (non illustré) qui peut être un aspirateur chariot ou un aspirateur balai. Les caractéristiques d'un tel aspirateur et le principe de l'emboîtement entre le tube et l'embout de raccordement sont connus de l'homme du métier et ne sont pas l'objet principal de la présente invention, raison pour laquelle ils ne sont pas détaillés ci-après. L'embout de raccordement 11 est raccordé à l'extrémité arrière 6b du premier conduit d'aspiration 6 de la tête rectangulaire 2, par l'intermédiaire d'un tube flexible 12, schématisé en pointillés sur la figure 2. L'embout de raccordement 11 est assujetti à un chariot 13 qui comporte deux roues 14a, 14b montées sur un même axe 15. Ce chariot 13 comprend une fourche 16 dont la partie arrière est montée en liaison pivot selon l'axe 15 des roues 14a, 14b, d'une part, et dont la partie avant est montée en liaison pivot selon un axe 17 vis-à-vis du corps 18 de la tête rectangulaire 2, d'autre part.As shown on the figures 1 and 2 , the nozzle 1 comprises a connection piece 11 which is designed to receive by fitting a rigid or flexible tube (not shown) of a vacuum cleaner (not shown) which may be a vacuum cleaner trolley or a broom vacuum cleaner. The characteristics of such a vacuum cleaner and the principle of fitting between the tube and the connection piece are known to those skilled in the art and are not the main object of the present invention, which is why they are not not detailed below. The connection piece 11 is connected to the rear end 6b of the first suction duct 6 of the rectangular head 2, via a flexible tube 12, shown schematically in dotted lines on the picture 2 . The connection piece 11 is attached to a carriage 13 which comprises two wheels 14a, 14b mounted on the same axis 15. This carriage 13 comprises a fork 16 whose rear part is mounted in pivot connection along the axis 15 of the wheels 14a , 14b, on the one hand, and whose front part is mounted in pivot connection along an axis 17 vis-à-vis the body 18 of the rectangular head 2, on the other hand.

Tel qu'illustré sur la figure 1, la tête rectangulaire 2 et la tête triangulaire 3 sont reliées entre elles au moyen de deux bielles 19, 20 dont les extrémités arrière 19a, 20a sont montées en liaison pivot selon l'axe 17 vis-à-vis du corps 18 de la tête rectangulaire 2 et dont les extrémités avant 19b, 20b sont montées en liaison pivot selon un axe 21 vis-à-vis du corps 22 de la tête triangulaire 3. Durant les déplacements d'avant en arrière et inversement du suceur 1, la tête rectangulaire 2 peut être inclinée ou soulevée légèrement ; les bielles 19, 20 assurent un déplacement à plat de la tête triangulaire 3 vis-à-vis de la tête rectangulaire 2. En d'autres termes, la tête triangulaire 3 peut avancer ou reculer vis-à-vis de la tête rectangulaire 2, en conservant la face inférieure 10 de ladite tête triangulaire 3 parallèle à la surface 5 à aspirer.As shown on the figure 1 , the rectangular head 2 and the triangular head 3 are interconnected by means of two connecting rods 19, 20 whose rear ends 19a, 20a are mounted in pivot connection along the axis 17 vis-à-vis the body 18 of the head rectangular 2 and whose front ends 19b, 20b are mounted in pivot connection along an axis 21 vis-à-vis the body 22 of the triangular head 3. During the movements from front to rear and vice versa of the nozzle 1, the rectangular head 2 can be tilted or lifted slightly; the connecting rods 19, 20 ensure a flat displacement of the triangular head 3 vis-à-vis the rectangular head 2. In other words, the triangular head 3 can move forward or backward vis-à-vis the rectangular head 2 , keeping the underside 10 of said triangular head 3 parallel to the surface 5 to be sucked.

Tel qu'illustré en regard des figures 1 à 4, le premier conduit d'aspiration 6 de la tête rectangulaire 2 comprend un orifice 23 agencé dans une partie coudée supérieure 24 dudit premier conduit d'aspiration 6. Un conduit intermédiaire 25 comprend une partie arrière rigide 250 dont l'extrémité arrière 250a communique avec l'orifice 23 sur le premier conduit d'aspiration 6 de la tête rectangulaire 2. Ce conduit intermédiaire 25 comprend également une partie avant souple 251 qui prolonge la partie arrière rigide 250 et qui a son extrémité avant 251a raccordée à l'extrémité arrière du second conduit d'aspiration 9 de la tête triangulaire 3. Cette partie avant souple 251 du conduit intermédiaire 25 permet de laisser la tête triangulaire 3 se déplacer librement à plat, d'avant en arrière et inversement, vis-à-vis de la tête rectangulaire 2, comme cela est expliqué précédemment.As shown next to figures 1 to 4 , the first suction duct 6 of the rectangular head 2 comprises an orifice 23 arranged in an upper bent part 24 of said first suction duct 6. An intermediate duct 25 comprises a rigid rear part 250 whose rear end 250a communicates with the orifice 23 on the first suction duct 6 of the rectangular head 2. This intermediate duct 25 also comprises a flexible front part 251 which extends the rigid rear part 250 and which has its front end 251a connected to the rear end of the second suction duct 9 of the triangular head 3. This flexible front part 251 of the intermediate duct 25 allows the triangular head 3 to move freely flat, from front to back and vice versa, vis-à-vis the head rectangular 2, as explained above.

Tel qu'illustré en regard des figures 2 à 6, le suceur 1 comprend un clapet 26 qui présente une forme incurvée lui permettant d'épouser convenablement l'orifice 23 dans une position de fermeture de celui-ci, illustrée en figures 2 et 4. Le clapet 26 comprend un corps rigide 27 et une lèvre 28 agencée sur le pourtour du corps 27. Cette lèvre 28 est par exemple réalisée dans une matière élastomère et permet d'assurer une étanchéité avec le pourtour 29 de l'orifice 23 sur lequel elle est plaquée dans la position de fermeture dudit orifice 23. Le clapet 26 est monté en liaison pivot selon un axe 30 vis-à-vis du premier conduit d'aspiration 6 de la tête rectangulaire 2, ce qui lui permet de pivoter soit dans la position de fermeture de l'orifice 23, telle qu'illustrée en figures 2, 4 et 5, soit dans la position d'ouverture de l'orifice 23, telle qu'illustrée en figure 3, position d'ouverture selon laquelle la lèvre 28 du clapet 26 vient en appui sur la partie inférieure coudée 31 dudit premier conduit d'aspiration 6 pour le fermer étanchement et, ainsi, obturer la première bouche d'aspiration 7 de la tête rectangulaire 2. Ainsi, lorsque le clapet 26 est en position de fermeture de l'orifice 23, l'aspiration (illustrée par la flèche 32 sur la figure 2) s'effectue uniquement par la première bouche d'aspiration 7 de la tête rectangulaire 2. Et lorsque le clapet 26 est en position d'ouverture de l'orifice 23, l'aspiration (illustrée par la flèche 33 sur la figure 3) s'effectue uniquement par la seconde bouche d'aspiration 4 de la tête triangulaire 3.As shown next to figures 2 to 6 , the nozzle 1 comprises a valve 26 which has a curved shape allowing it to fit suitably the orifice 23 in a closed position thereof, illustrated in figure 2 And 4 . The valve 26 comprises a rigid body 27 and a lip 28 arranged on the periphery of the body 27. This lip 28 is for example made of an elastomeric material and makes it possible to ensure a seal with the periphery 29 of the orifice 23 on which it is pressed in the closed position of said orifice 23. The valve 26 is mounted in pivot connection along an axis 30 vis-à-vis of the first suction duct 6 of the rectangular head 2, which allows it to pivot either in the closed position of the orifice 23, as illustrated in figure 2 , 4 and 5 , or in the open position of the orifice 23, as illustrated in picture 3 , open position in which the lip 28 of the valve 26 bears against the lower angled part 31 of the said first suction duct 6 to close it tightly and thus close the first suction mouth 7 of the rectangular head 2 Thus, when the valve 26 is in the closed position of the orifice 23, the suction (illustrated by the arrow 32 on the picture 2 ) is carried out only by the first suction mouth 7 of the rectangular head 2. And when the valve 26 is in the opening position of the orifice 23, the suction (illustrated by the arrow 33 on the picture 3 ) is carried out only by the second suction mouth 4 of the triangular head 3.

Le déplacement du clapet 26 de la position de fermeture illustrée en figure 2 vers la position d'ouverture illustrée en figure 3 s'effectue lorsque la tête triangulaire 3 entre en contact avec un obstacle, par exemple un angle de pièce ou une plinthe le long d'une paroi. Pour cela, la tête triangulaire 3 comprend deux barrettes de butée 34, 35 qui s'étendent respectivement le long des deux côtés 36, 37 du corps 22 formant la pointe 38 du suceur 1. Ces deux barrettes de butée 34, 35 sont montées en liaison pivot entre elles selon un axe 39 au niveau de la pointe 38. Les extrémités arrière 34a, 35a des barrettes de butée 34, 35 comprennent chacune un doigt 40, 41. Tel qu'illustré en regard des figures 1 et 6, deux bielles 42, 43 sont assujetties entre elles au moyen d'un arbre 44 et sont montées en liaison pivot selon un axe 45 vis-à-vis du corps 22 de la tête triangulaire 3. Ces deux bielles 42, 43 comprennent chacune une partie avant 42a, 43a munie d'un rouleau avant 46, 47, les rouleaux avant 46, 47 venant respectivement en appui sous les doigts 40, 41 des barrettes de butée 34, 35. Le clapet 26 est prolongé vers l'avant par deux bras 48, 49 présentant chacun une forme en crochet, comme l'illustre la figure 6. Les bras 48, 49 sont solidaires du clapet 26. Ces deux bras 48, 49 reçoivent respectivement deux rouleaux arrière 50, 51 agencés sur les parties arrière 42b, 43b des bielles 42, 43, comme l'illustrent les figures 5 et 6. Lorsque l'une ou l'autre des barrettes de butée 34, 35 vient en contact avec un obstacle, voire les deux simultanément, celle-ci pivote selon l'axe 39 à la pointe 38, ce qui permet au doigt 40, 41 correspondant de venir en appui contre le rouleau avant 46, 47 respectif, faisant ainsi pivoter vers le haut les parties arrière 42b, 43b desdites bielles 42, 43, ce qui permet alors aux rouleaux arrière 50, 51 de venir en appui contre les faces inférieures 52, 53 des bras 48, 49, lesquels basculent vers le haut et font ainsi pivoter vers le bas le clapet 26 dans la position d'ouverture de l'orifice 23. Des ressorts de rappel (non illustrés) permettent aux barrettes de butées 34, 35 de revenir dans leur position normale lorsqu'elles quittent le contact avec un obstacle, ce qui permet aux doigts 40, 41 de se dégager des rouleaux avant 46, 47. D'autres ressorts de rappel (non illustrés) permettent aux bielles 42, 43 de pivoter leurs parties arrière 42b, 43b vers le bas. Ces parties arrière 42b, 43b comprennent chacune une butée transversale 54, 55, ces butées transversales 54, 55 venant respectivement en appui contre des pans inclinés 56, 57 agencés sur le dessus des bras 48, 49, permettant ainsi auxdits bras 48, 49 de pivoter vers le bas sous l'action du pivotement des parties arrière 42b, 43b vers le bas, ce qui ramène le clapet 26 en position de fermeture de l'orifice 23.The displacement of the valve 26 from the closed position illustrated in picture 2 to the open position shown in picture 3 takes place when the triangular head 3 comes into contact with an obstacle, for example a corner of a room or a plinth along a wall. For this, the triangular head 3 comprises two abutment strips 34, 35 which extend respectively along the two sides 36, 37 of the body 22 forming the tip 38 of the nozzle 1. These two abutment strips 34, 35 are mounted in pivot connection between them along an axis 39 at the level of the tip 38. The rear ends 34a, 35a of the stop bars 34, 35 each comprise a finger 40, 41. As illustrated opposite the figure 1 And 6 , two connecting rods 42, 43 are secured together by means of a shaft 44 and are mounted in pivot connection along an axis 45 vis-à-vis the body 22 of the triangular head 3. These two connecting rods 42, 43 each comprise a front part 42a, 43a provided with a front roller 46, 47, the front rollers 46, 47 bearing respectively under the fingers 40, 41 of the stop bars 34, 35. The valve 26 is extended forwards by two arms 48, 49 each having a hook shape, as shown in the figure 6 . The arms 48, 49 are integral with the valve 26. These two arms 48, 49 respectively receive two rear rollers 50, 51 arranged on the rear parts 42b, 43b of the connecting rods 42, 43, as illustrated by the figure 5 And 6 . When one or the other of the stop bars 34, 35 comes into contact with an obstacle, or even both simultaneously, the latter pivots along the axis 39 at the point 38, which allows the corresponding finger 40, 41 to bear against the respective front roller 46, 47, thus causing the rear parts 42b, 43b of said connecting rods 42, 43 to pivot upwards, which then allows the rear rollers 50, 51 to bear against the lower faces 52 , 53 of the arms 48, 49, which tilt upwards and thus cause the valve 26 to pivot downwards into the opening position of the orifice 23. Return springs (not shown) allow the stop bars 34, 35 to return to their normal position when they leave contact with an obstacle, which allows the fingers 40, 41 to disengage from the front rollers 46, 47. Other return springs (not shown) allow the connecting rods 42, 43 to pivot their rear parts 42b, 43b downwards. These rear parts 42b, 43b each comprise a transverse abutment 54, 55, these transverse abutments 54, 55 bearing respectively against inclined faces 56, 57 arranged on top of the arms 48, 49, thus allowing said arms 48, 49 to pivot downwards under the action of the pivoting of the rear parts 42b, 43b downwards, which brings the valve 26 back to the closed position of the orifice 23.

Sur la variante des figures 7 à 9, le suceur 1 reprend les mêmes caractéristiques que celles décrites précédemment en regard des figures 1 à 6, à l'exception que l'obturateur formé du clapet 26 est remplacé par un obturateur formé d'une membrane 58 élastiquement déformable. La membrane 58 est montée dans une chambre 59 agencée sur la partie arrière rigide 250 du conduit intermédiaire 25 (la partie avant souple 251 du conduit intermédiaire 25 n'est pas illustrée sur les figures 7 et 8, pour une meilleure visibilité des autres pièces). A l'état de repos, la membrane 58 présente une forme par défaut, illustrée en figure 8 où le pourtour de la membrane présente une lèvre 580 qui repose en bordure de l'orifice 23. Dans cette position initiale, qui correspond à une position de fermeture de l'orifice 23, l'aspiration s'effectue uniquement par la première bouche d'aspiration 7 de la tête rectangulaire 2.On the variant of figures 7 to 9 , the squeegee 1 has the same characteristics as those previously described with regard to the figures 1 to 6 , except that the shutter formed of the valve 26 is replaced by a shutter formed of an elastically deformable membrane 58. The membrane 58 is mounted in a chamber 59 arranged on the rigid rear part 250 of the intermediate duct 25 (the flexible front part 251 of the intermediate duct 25 is not illustrated on the figure 7 And 8 , for better visibility of the other parts). In the state of rest, the membrane 58 has a default shape, illustrated in figure 8 where the perimeter of the membrane has a lip 580 which rests on the edge of the orifice 23. In this initial position, which corresponds to a closed position of the orifice 23, the aspiration is carried out only by the first mouth of suction 7 of the rectangular head 2.

Sur cette variante des figures 7 à 9, la membrane 58 peut être déformée pour être amenée dans une position d'ouverture de l'orifice 23, illustrée sur la figure 9, en exerçant une traction vers le haut sur cette membrane 58 au moyen d'un câble 60 monté coulissant dans une gaine 61. Lorsque la membrane 58 est déformée vers le haut dans la chambre 59 pour occuper la position d'ouverture de l'orifice 23, l'aspiration s'effectue concomitamment par la première bouche d'aspiration 7 de la tête rectangulaire 2 et par la seconde bouche d'aspiration 4 de la tête triangulaire 3. Une première extrémité 60a du câble 60 est fixée à la membrane 58 et une seconde extrémité 60b du câble 60 est fixée à une pièce rotative 62. La rotation de la pièce rotative 62 dans un premier sens permet de tirer sur le câble 60 et, ainsi, de déformer la membrane 58 vers le haut, dans la chambre 59. La rotation de la pièce rotative 62 dans un second sens permet de relâcher le câble 60 et, ainsi, de relâcher l'effort de traction sur la membrane 58 de manière à ce que cette dernière retrouve sa forme initiale dans laquelle elle ferme l'orifice 23. La rotation de la pièce rotative 62 dans le premier sens est assurée lorsque l'une ou l'autre des barrettes de butée 34, 35, voire les deux simultanément, vient au contact d'un obstacle. Pour cela, deux bielles 63, 64 sont agencées respectivement entre la pièce rotative 62 et les extrémités arrière 34a, 35a des deux barrettes de butée 34, 35. Lorsque la tête triangulaire 3 rencontre un obstacle, ces bielles 63, 64 transforment le pivotement de l'une et/ou l'autre des barrettes de butée 34, 35 selon l'axe 39 à la pointe 38, en une rotation de la pièce rotative 62 dans le premier sens. La rotation de la pièce rotative dans le second sens est assurée par un ressort hélicoïdal de rappel, lorsque la tête triangulaire 3 quitte l'obstacle. Cette rotation de la pièce rotative 62 dans le second sens assure le retour en position normale des barrettes de butée 34, 35 par l'intermédiaire des bielles 63, 64.On this variant of figures 7 to 9 , the membrane 58 can be deformed to be brought into an opening position of the orifice 23, illustrated in the figure 9 , by exerting upward traction on this membrane 58 by means of a cable 60 mounted to slide in a sheath 61. When the membrane 58 is deformed upwards in the chamber 59 to occupy the opening position of the orifice 23, the suction is carried out concomitantly by the first suction mouth 7 of the rectangular head 2 and by the second suction mouth 4 of the triangular head 3. A first end 60a of the cable 60 is fixed to the membrane 58 and a second end 60b of the cable 60 is fixed to a rotary part 62. The rotation of the rotary part 62 in a first direction makes it possible to pull on the cable 60 and, thus, to deform the membrane 58 upwards, in the chamber 59. The rotation of the rotary part 62 in a second direction makes it possible to release the cable 60 and, thus, to release the tensile force on the membrane 58 so that the latter regains its initial shape in which it closes the orifice 23. The rotation of the rotating part 62 in the first direction is ensured when one or the other of the stop strips 34, 35, or even both simultaneously, comes into contact with an obstacle. For this, two connecting rods 63, 64 are arranged respectively between the rotary part 62 and the rear ends 34a, 35a of the two stop bars 34, 35. When the triangular head 3 encounters an obstacle, these connecting rods 63, 64 transform the pivoting of one and/or the other of the stop bars 34, 35 along the axis 39 at the tip 38, in one rotation of the rotary part 62 in the first direction. The rotation of the rotating part in the second direction is ensured by a helical return spring, when the triangular head 3 leaves the obstacle. This rotation of the rotating part 62 in the second direction ensures the return to the normal position of the stop bars 34, 35 via the connecting rods 63, 64.

Dans une réalisation préférentielle, selon les deux variantes décrites précédemment, voire pour d'autres variantes, la garde au sol de la tête triangulaire 3, c'est-à-dire l'espace séparant sa face inférieure 10 de la surface 5, est supérieure à la garde au sol de la tête rectangulaire 2, c'est-à-dire l'espace séparant sa face inférieure 8 de la surface 5. Cette augmentation de la garde au sol de la tête triangulaire 3 a pour but d'éviter de retenir les poussières au niveau de la seconde bouche d'aspiration 4, en particulier lorsque la surface 5 aspirée est de la moquette dont les poils peuvent être plus ou moins longs.In a preferred embodiment, according to the two variants described above, or even for other variants, the ground clearance of the triangular head 3, that is to say the space separating its lower face 10 from the surface 5, is greater than the ground clearance of the rectangular head 2, that is to say the space separating its lower face 8 from the surface 5. This increase in the ground clearance of the triangular head 3 is intended to avoid to retain the dust at the level of the second suction mouth 4, in particular when the sucked surface 5 is carpet, the hairs of which may be more or less long.

Les caractéristiques décrites précédemment pour les deux variantes du suceur 1 ne sont pas limitatives, d'autres variantes restant envisageables.The characteristics described above for the two variants of the nozzle 1 are not limiting, other variants remaining possible.

A titre d'exemple, la liaison pivot entre les deux barrettes de butée 34, 35 pourrait être remplacée par un montage en translation de ces barrettes de butée 34, 35 vis-à-vis des côtés 36, 37 du corps 22 de la tête triangulaire 3. On pourrait aussi, dans ce cas, remplacer chacune des barrettes de butées 34, 35 par plusieurs éléments de butée. Il conviendrait alors, bien entendu, d'adapter les moyens de transmission permettant l'actionnement du clapet 26 ou de la soupape 60.By way of example, the pivot connection between the two abutment strips 34, 35 could be replaced by an assembly in translation of these abutment strips 34, 35 vis-à-vis the sides 36, 37 of the body 22 of the head triangular 3. One could also, in this case, replace each of the abutment strips 34, 35 by several abutment elements. It would then be necessary, of course, to adapt the transmission means allowing the actuation of the valve 26 or the valve 60.

Les deux variantes de réalisation décrites en regard des figures 1 à 8 assurent un aiguillage de l'aspiration soit par la première bouche d'aspiration 7 de la tête rectangulaire 2 (dans le cas du clapet 26 ou de la soupape 60 en position de fermeture de l'orifice 23), soit par la seconde bouche d'aspiration 4 de la tête triangulaire 3 (dans le cas du clapet 26 en position d'ouverture de l'orifice 23), soit à la fois par la première bouche d'aspiration 7 de la tête rectangulaire 2 et par la seconde bouche d'aspiration 4 de la tête triangulaire 3 (dans le cas de la soupape 60 en position d'ouverture de l'orifice 23). On pourrait envisager d'autres système d'aiguillage. Par exemple, le premier conduit d'aspiration 6 de la tête rectangulaire 2 et le second conduit d'aspiration 9 de la tête triangulaire 3 pourraient être raccordés à deux entrées d'un collecteur, ledit collecteur comprenant une sortie raccordée à l'embout de raccordement 11 du suceur 1, ledit collecteur comprenant un clapet permettant de basculer sur la première entrée et/ou sur la seconde entrée pour aspirer les poussières soit par la première bouche d'aspiration 7 de la tête rectangulaire 2, soit par la seconde bouche d'aspiration 4 de la tête triangulaire 3, voire par les deux bouches d'aspiration 7, 4 simultanément. Des capteurs de proximité seront alors agencés sur les côtés 36, 37 du corps 22 de la tête triangulaire 3, en lieu et place des barrettes de butée 34, 35, et permettront l'activation d'un actionneur agissant sur le clapet dans le collecteur.The two embodiment variants described with regard to the figures 1 to 8 ensure a switching of the suction either by the first suction mouth 7 of the rectangular head 2 (in the case of the valve 26 or the valve 60 in the closed position of the orifice 23), or by the second mouth of suction 4 of the triangular head 3 (in the case of the valve 26 in the opening position of the orifice 23), either by both the first suction mouth 7 of the rectangular head 2 and by the second mouth of suction 4 of the triangular head 3 (in the case of the valve 60 in the open position of the orifice 23). Other referral systems could be considered. For example, the first suction duct 6 of the rectangular head 2 and the second suction duct 9 of the triangular head 3 could be connected to two inlets of a manifold, said manifold comprising an outlet connected to the tip of connection 11 of the squeegee 1, said collector comprising a valve making it possible to switch to the first inlet and/or to the second inlet to suck up the dust either by the first suction mouth 7 of the rectangular head 2, or by the second mouth of suction 4 of the triangular head 3, or even by the two suction mouths 7, 4 simultaneously. Proximity sensors will then be arranged on the sides 36, 37 of the body 22 of the triangular head 3, instead of the stop bars 34, 35, and will allow the activation of an actuator acting on the valve in the manifold .

Bien entendu, l'invention n'est nullement limitée aux modes de réalisation précédemment décrits et illustrés qui n'ont été donnés qu'à titre d'exemples. Des modifications restent possibles, notamment du point de vue de la constitution des divers éléments ou par substitution d'équivalents techniques, sans sortir pour autant du domaine de protection de l'invention.Of course, the invention is in no way limited to the embodiments previously described and illustrated which have been given by way of examples only. Modifications remain possible, in particular from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without thereby departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Ainsi, dans une variante de réalisation non représentée, la deuxième tête pourra être reliée par une articulation directement à l'axe des roues du chariot ou à l'embout de raccordement et non pas à la première tête.Thus, in a variant embodiment not shown, the second head may be connected by an articulation directly to the axis of the wheels of the carriage or to the connection end piece and not to the first head.

Ainsi dans une variante de réalisation de l'invention non représentée, la première tête pourra comporter une forme différente de celle décrite dans le mode de réalisation illustré ci-dessus. A titre d'exemple, la première tête pourra présenter une forme sensiblement trapézoïdale avec un bord arrière légèrement plus grand que le bord avant. Les bords latéraux de la première tête pourront également être légèrement courbes. La première tête pourra également présenter une forme oblongue. La deuxième tête présente un bord arrière présentant une largeur inférieure à la largeur du bord avant de la première tête et une forme convergeant vers une extrémité avant de plus faible largeur. Ainsi, la deuxième tête pourra présenter un bord avant de forme arquée présentant par exemple la forme d'un demi-cercle.Thus, in a variant embodiment of the invention not shown, the first head may comprise a shape different from that described in the embodiment illustrated above. By way of example, the first head may have a substantially trapezoidal shape with a rear edge slightly larger than the front edge. The side edges of the first head may also be slightly curved. The first head may also have an oblong shape. The second head has a rear edge having a width less than the width of the front edge of the first head and a shape converging towards a front end of smaller width. Thus, the second head may have a front edge of arcuate shape having for example the shape of a semicircle.

Ainsi, dans une variante de réalisation non représentée, les moyens répartiteurs permettant de modifier la répartition de l'aspiration entre la première bouche d'aspiration et la seconde bouche d'aspiration pourront comprendre un clapet, ou un obturateur, motorisé et commandé électriquement par des interrupteurs associés aux barrettes de butées disposées sur l'extrémité avant de la deuxième tête. Dans une variante de réalisation, le clapet motorisé ou l'obturateur motorisé pourra également être piloté par une carte électronique en fonction du signal émis par un dispositif de détection d'un obstacle comprenant avantageusement des capteurs de proximité portés par le suceur, ces capteurs de proximité pouvant par exemple être constitués par un capteur optique, un capteur capacitif ou un capteur à ultrasons. Dans une autre variante de réalisation non représentée, le dispositif de détection d'un obstacle pourra également faire appel à une analyse d'image à l'aide d'une caméra.Thus, in a variant embodiment not shown, the distributing means making it possible to modify the distribution of the suction between the first suction mouth and the second suction mouth may comprise a valve, or a shutter, motorized and controlled electrically by switches associated with the stop strips arranged on the front end of the second head. In a variant embodiment, the motorized flap or the motorized shutter can also be controlled by an electronic card according to the signal emitted by a device for detecting an obstacle advantageously comprising proximity sensors carried by the nozzle, these sensors proximity which can for example consist of an optical sensor, a capacitive sensor or an ultrasonic sensor. In another embodiment variant not shown, the obstacle detection device may also make use of an image analysis using a camera.

Dans une autre variante de réalisation non représentée, les moyens répartiteurs pourront comprendre un clapet, ou un obturateur, dont le positionnement est commandé mécaniquement ou électriquement au moyen d'un bouton de commande permettant à l'utilisateur de sélectionner manuellement le mode de fonctionnement du suceur qu'il souhaite utiliser parmi différents modes de fonctionnement proposés tels que : aspiration uniquement au travers de la première tête, aspiration uniquement au travers de la deuxième tête, ou aspiration combinée au travers des deux têtes.In another embodiment not shown, the distributor means may comprise a valve or a shutter, the positioning of which is controlled mechanically or electrically by means of a control button allowing the user to manually select the mode of operation of the nozzle that he wishes to use from among the different operating modes offered such as: suction only through the first head, suction only through the second head, or combined suction through both heads.

Claims (15)

  1. A vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) designed to be moved over a surface (5) to suction, which comprises a first head (2) which comprises a first suctioning conduit (6) connected to a first suctioning mouth (7) arranged on a lower face (8) of said first head, said nozzle (1) comprising:
    - a second head (3) which extends towards the front of the first head (2) and which comprises a second suctioning conduit (9) connected to a second suctioning mouth (4) arranged on a lower face (10) of said second head, characterised in that said nozzle (1) comprises distribution means allowing to modify the distribution of the suctioning between the first suctioning mouth (7) and the second suctioning mouth (4),
    wherein the second head (3) has a bulk with a lower width than the first head (2).
  2. The nozzle (1) according to claim 1, wherein the distribution means can occupy a first position wherein they allow a suctioning only by the first suctioning mouth (7) and at least one second position wherein they allow a suctioning at least by the second suctioning mouth (4).
  3. The nozzle (1) according to claim 2, wherein, in the second position, the distribution means allow a suctioning, only by the second suctioning mouth (4).
  4. The nozzle (1) according to one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the second head comprises a device for detecting (34, 35) an obstacle, the distribution means being moved automatically in the second position when the detection device (34, 35) detects an obstacle.
  5. The nozzle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first head (2) has a trapezoidal shape, advantageously rectangular.
  6. The nozzle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second head has a shape converging towards a front end (38) of reduced width, the second head (3) having advantageously a triangular shape.
  7. The nozzle (1) according to claim 6, wherein the distribution means comprise a shunting system comprising:
    - an intermediate conduit (25) which comprises a front end and a rear end, the front end being connected to a rear end of the second suctioning conduit (9) and the rear end opening onto an orifice (23) arranged on the first suctioning conduit (6),
    - a blocker configured to be moved in a closing position of the orifice and in an opening position of the orifice,
    - stop means arranged on two sides (36, 37) in the vicinity of the front end (38) of the second head (3),
    - transmission means arranged between the stop means and the blocker and configured to move the blocker in its closing position under normal condition of use and in its opening position when the stop means come into contact with the obstacle.
  8. The nozzle (1) according to claim 7, wherein the second head (3) is triangular and the stop means comprise two stop bars (34, 35) arranged respectively along the two sides (36, 37) forming the tip (38) of the triangular head (3).
  9. The nozzle (1) according to one of claims 7 to 8, wherein the blocker consists of a valve (26) mounted in pivot connection, said valve being configured to pivot in a closing position of the orifice (23) or in an opening position of the orifice, said valve being configured to block the first suctioning mouth (7) in its opening position of the orifice.
  10. The nozzle (1) according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the transmission means comprise at least one arm (48, 49) extending towards the front of the valve (26) and at least one lever (42, 43) mounted in pivot connection and arranged between the at least one arm and the stop means, the activation of the stop means in contact with an obstacle leading to the pivoting of the valve in the opening position of the orifice (23).
  11. The nozzle (1) according to claim 10, wherein the transmission means comprise an element for returning the valve (26) in the closing position of the orifice (23).
  12. The nozzle (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, which comprises an articulation system which is arranged between the second head (3) and the first head (2), said articulation system being configured to allow a tilting of the lower face (8) of the first head with respect to the surface (5) to be suctioning while conserving an orientation of the lower face (10) of the second head substantially fixed with respect to said surface to be suctioned during the front and rear movements, and conversely, of said nozzle.
  13. The nozzle (1) according to claim 12, wherein the articulation system comprises at least one connecting rod (19, 20), of which the two ends (19a, 19b, 20a, 20b) are mounted in pivot connection respectively on the first head (2) and on the second head (3).
  14. The nozzle (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the second head (3) comprises a ground clearance greater than that of the first head (2).
  15. A vacuum cleaner comprising a nozzle (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14.
EP19156544.9A 2018-02-23 2019-02-11 Vacuum cleaner nozzle combining a first suction head and a second suction head Active EP3530169B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1851620A FR3078245B1 (en) 2018-02-23 2018-02-23 VACUUM CLEANER COMBINING A FIRST SUCTION HEAD AND A SECOND SUCTION HEAD

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3530169A1 EP3530169A1 (en) 2019-08-28
EP3530169B1 EP3530169B1 (en) 2021-01-06
EP3530169B2 true EP3530169B2 (en) 2023-08-30

Family

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19156544.9A Active EP3530169B2 (en) 2018-02-23 2019-02-11 Vacuum cleaner nozzle combining a first suction head and a second suction head

Country Status (4)

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EP (1) EP3530169B2 (en)
CN (2) CN210643885U (en)
ES (1) ES2849976T5 (en)
FR (1) FR3078245B1 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR3113822B1 (en) * 2020-09-04 2022-09-16 Seb Sa VACUUM NOZZLE COMBINING A FIRST SUCTION HEAD AND A SECOND SUCTION HEAD

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WO2015052425A1 (en) † 2013-10-08 2015-04-16 Seb S.A. Steam cleaner with a flow diversion mechanism

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US7392566B2 (en) 2003-10-30 2008-07-01 Gordon Evan A Cleaning machine for cleaning a surface
FR2862514B1 (en) * 2003-11-20 2006-01-06 Seb Sa VACUUM SUCKER
GB0412137D0 (en) * 2004-05-29 2004-06-30 Hoover Ltd Vacuum cleaner
GB2441495A (en) * 2006-09-09 2008-03-12 Vax Ltd Suction diversion channel in vacuum cleaner head
EP2014212B1 (en) 2007-07-09 2015-12-23 Vorwerk & Co. Interholding GmbH Combination of a vacuum cleaner nozzle with a wipe, and wipe and method for wet cleaning floors
GB2471112B (en) * 2009-06-17 2013-05-29 Dyson Technology Ltd A floor tool
GB201213842D0 (en) * 2012-08-03 2012-09-19 Dyson Technology Ltd A floor tool for a vacuum cleaning appliance
FR2999410B1 (en) * 2012-12-19 2015-11-06 Seb Sa TRAPPER FOR VACUUM SUCKER
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CN104706277B (en) 2015-02-04 2017-08-25 苏州德莱电器有限公司 The floor cleaning head of surface cleaning apparatus
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CN204931572U (en) 2015-07-14 2016-01-06 松下家电研究开发（杭州）有限公司 A kind of cleaner suction nozzle

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US1649610A (en) † 1925-07-08 1927-11-15 Felix J Mcguane Water heater
US20110010890A1 (en) † 2009-07-16 2011-01-20 Dyson Technology Limited Surface treating head
WO2015052425A1 (en) † 2013-10-08 2015-04-16 Seb S.A. Steam cleaner with a flow diversion mechanism

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3530169A1 (en) 2019-08-28
CN110179393A (en) 2019-08-30
EP3530169B1 (en) 2021-01-06
ES2849976T5 (en) 2024-02-15
CN210643885U (en) 2020-06-02
FR3078245A1 (en) 2019-08-30
FR3078245B1 (en) 2020-02-07
ES2849976T3 (en) 2021-08-24
CN110179393B (en) 2022-06-17

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