EP4525681A1

EP4525681A1 - A cleaning appliance

Info

Publication number: EP4525681A1
Application number: EP23725769.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Sam Bennett; Peter Davies; Tobias HALE
Original assignee: Techtronic Cordless GP
Current assignee: Techtronic Cordless GP
Priority date: 2022-05-16
Filing date: 2023-05-16
Publication date: 2025-03-26
Anticipated expiration: 2043-05-16
Also published as: AU2023274034A1; US20250302248A1; EP4525681B1; CN119584904A; GB2618793A; GB202207156D0; WO2023223010A1

Abstract

A cleaning appliance, including: a main body; a cleaner head for suctioning dirt from a surface to be cleaned, including: a dirty air inlet; and a dirty air outlet; a recovery tank for collecting dirt and/or dirty liquid; a first fluid recovery pathway; and a second fluid recovery pathway; wherein the first fluid recovery pathway is fluidly connectable to the dirty air outlet and the second fluid recovery pathway; wherein the second fluid recovery pathway is fluidly connectable to the recovery tank, and 15 is positioned outside the recovery tank, and wherein the second fluid recovery pathway is removable from a remainder of the cleaning appliance.

Description

A CLEANING APPLIANCE

FIELD

The present invention relates to a cleaning appliance. In particular, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a multi-floor, or wet/dry, cleaning appliance, or vacuum cleaner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the invention we provide a cleaning appliance, including: a main body; a cleaner head for suctioning dirt from a surface to be cleaned, including: a dirty air inlet; and a dirty air outlet; a recovery tank for collecting dirt and/or dirty liquid; a first fluid recovery pathway; and a second fluid recovery pathway; wherein the first fluid recovery pathway is fluidly connectable to the dirty air outlet and the second fluid recovery pathway; wherein the second fluid recovery pathway is fluidly connectable to the recovery tank, and is positioned outside the recovery tank, and wherein the second fluid recovery pathway is removable from a remainder of the cleaning appliance.

The second fluid recovery pathway may be positioned rearwardly of the recovery tank.

The recovery tank may be releasably connectable to the main body.

The second fluid recovery pathway may be removable when the recovery tank is removed.

The second fluid recovery pathway may be defined by a second fluid pathway member.

The second fluid pathway member may include first and second ends wherein the first end is closer to the first fluid recovery pathway than the second end.

The second fluid pathway member may be releasably connectable to the remainder of the cleaning appliance.

The second fluid pathway member may be rotatable, or pivotable, preferably downwardly towards the cleaner head, to remove the second fluid pathway member from the cleaning appliance. The cleaning appliance may include a (first) fastener member for fastening the second fluid pathway member to the main body or the recovery tank.

The fastener member may be positioned closer to the second end than the first end.

The fastener member may be positioned at or adjacent the second end.

The fastener member may include a first fastener portion positioned on the main body or recovery tank.

The fastener member may include a second fastener portion positioned on the second fluid pathway member.

The first fastener portion may fasten to the second fastener portion to fasten the second fluid pathway member relative to the main body or recovery tank.

The first fastener portion may be a first fastener portion recess / first fastener portion opening defined by a sidewall of the main body or recovery tank.

The second fastener portion may be a fastener formation including a projection.

In use, the fastener formation may be received in the fastener recess / opening and the projection may abut the sidewall for holding the fastener formation in the fastener recess / opening.

The cleaning appliance may include a second fastener member.

The first fastener member may be positioned to a first side of the second fluid pathway member.

The second fastener member may be positioned to a second, opposite, side of the second fluid pathway member.

The second fastener member may include one or more or all of the features of the first fastener member as set forth above.

The first and second fastener members may be substantially equidistant from the first fluid recovery pathway.

An outlet of the first fluid recovery pathway may be positioned in the main body. The main body may include a second fluid pathway recess.

The outlet of the first fluid recovery pathway may be located in the second fluid pathway recess.

The first end may include a flange.

The flange, in use, may be received in the second fluid pathway recess.

The flange may be substantially the same size and/or shape as the second fluid pathway recess.

The main body may include an upwardly facing surface in which the second fluid pathway recess is located.

In use, the recovery tank may rest on the upwardly facing surface.

The upwardly facing surface may include a retaining formation, e.g., a retaining wall, which extends away therefrom.

In use, the retaining formation may retain the recovery tank on the upwardly facing surface.

The recovery tank may include an inlet, e.g., positioned in a sidewall of the recovery tank, through which dirt and dirt laden liquid is received in use.

The second end may include a dirty air / liquid outlet which is fluidly connected to the second fluid recovery pathway.

The second end may be positioned adjacent the inlet to connect the second fluid recovery pathway to the recovery tank.

The cleaning appliance may include a seal positioned around the dirty air / liquid outlet in the second end to seal the second end to the recovery tank.

The second end may be inclined at an angle to a remainder of the second fluid pathway member and/or the first end.

The second fluid recovery pathway may be positioned generally centrally with respect to the main body and/or the recovery tank. The recovery tank may extend towards and / or around first and second respective sides of the second fluid recovery pathway.

The cleaning appliance may include a fluid supply tank, e.g., positioned on a rear of the main body.

The cleaning appliance may include a spray nozzle device, or first and second spray nozzle devices, for dispensing, directly or indirectly, cleaning fluid onto a surface to cleaned.

The cleaner head may include an agitator, or first and second agitators.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In order that the present disclosure may be more readily understood, preferable embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner in accordance with the present disclosure (outlet pipe not shown);

Figure 2 is a further perspective view of the cleaner of figure 1 with the recovery tank removed;

Figure 3 is a further perspective view of the cleaner of figure 2 with the second fluid recovery member removed;

Figure 4 is an enlarged view of 4-4 of Figure 1 ;

Figure 5 is an enlarged view of 4-4 of Figure 1 with the recovery tank removed;

Figure 6 is an enlarged view of 4-4 of Figure 1 with the recovery tank and second fluid recovery member removed;

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the cleaner along a plane P shown in dashed lines in Figure 1 , said plane P effectively splitting the cleaner into first and second respective halves;

Figure 8 is a further cross-sectional view of the cleaner as shown in Figure 7 with the recovery tank removed;

Figure 9 is a further cross-sectional view of the cleaner as shown in Figure 8 with the second fluid recovery member removed; Figure 10 is a perspective view of the second fluid recovery pathway member in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 11 is a perspective view of a recovery tank in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the recovery tank of Figure 11 with the lid removed;

Figure 13 is a top perspective view of the recovery tank of Figure 12;

Figure 14 is a bottom rear perspective view of the recovery tank of Figure 12;

Figure 15 is an exploded view of the recovery tank of Figure 11 ;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of a cleaner head in accordance with the present disclosure (outlet pipe not shown);

Figure 17 is a further perspective view of the cleaner head of Figure 16 with a front cover of the cleaner head removed;

Figure 18 is a side view of the cleaner head of Figure 16; and

Figure 19 is a bottom view of the cleaner head ofFigure 16.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Referring to Figure 1 there is shown a surface cleaning appliance 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The surface cleaning appliance 1 is, in particular a wet/dry vacuum cleaner, or multi-floor, cleaner. The surface cleaning appliance 1 includes a main body 2 and a cleaner head 10. The surface cleaning appliance 1 may rest on the cleaner head 10 in use and/or when in a stored position. The main body 2 may be connected to the cleaner head 10. In particular the main body 2 may be pivotably connected to the cleaner head 10. The connection between the main body 2 and the cleaner head 10 may permit the main body to pivot in a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use and to respective left and right sides of the cleaner head 10 which are generally perpendicular, or perpendicular, to the fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. In particular the pivotal connection may permit the main body 2 to sit within a periphery of the cleaner head 10, i.e. within front, rear and first and second sides of the cleaner head 10 (described in more detail below), so that a centre of gravity of the surface cleaning appliance 1 is positioned within a footprint of the cleaner head 10. This permits the surface cleaning appliance to be stored in an upright position. The cleaning appliance includes a first fluid recovery pathway 900 (shown in Figure 19) which is fluidly connectable to a dirty air outlet 26 of the cleaner head 10. The first fluid recovery pathway 900 in the present embodiment is defined, at least partially, by an outlet pipe 9 (shown in Figure 19) provided between the cleaner head 10 and the main body 2. The outlet pipe 9 is relatively flexible and ensures that the pivotal connection between the main body 2 and cleaner 10 can function. The outlet pipe 9 is fluidly connected to a dirty air outlet of the cleaner head. The first fluid recovery pathway 900 is also fluidly connectable to a second fluid recovery pathway 1000 (shown in Figures 2, 3, 5, 7, 8 and 10). The second fluid recovery pathway 1000 is fluidly connectable to a dirt collection container, or recovery tank, 5. This is described in more detail below.

It should be appreciated that in other embodiments the main body 2 may be fixed in position with respect to the cleaner head 10. In further envisaged embodiments the surface cleaning appliance 1 may be a cylinder style cleaner. In such embodiments the surface cleaning appliance may include a wand, a first end of which is connected to the outlet pipe 9 and a second end of which is connected to the cleaner head 10.

The surface cleaning appliance includes a handle 3 for a user to grasp. The handle 3 may be positioned above the main body 2. In particular the handle 3 may be positioned at a top of the surface cleaning appliance 1.

The main body 2 houses a source of suction, e.g. a motor, fan, impeller, for creating a vacuum (not shown). In some embodiments the motor may be a brushless motor. The source of suction may be positioned at a top of the main body 2. In particular, the source of suction may be positioned adjacent the handle 3.

A cleaning fluid supply tank 4 for holding a cleaning fluid is supported on the main body 2. In use, the cleaning fluid supply tank 4 receives fluid for cleaning a surface to be cleaned. For example, the cleaning fluid supply tank may receive a pre-mixed cleaning solution for cleaning a surface. In other embodiments the cleaning fluid supply tank 4 may receive water to which a concentrated cleaning solution is added, either in the cleaning fluid supply tank or subsequently from a further cleaning fluid supply tank (not shown) of the cleaning appliance 1. The cleaning fluid supply tank 4 is releasably connectable to the main body 2, although it could be fixed in the main body 2. In particular, the cleaning fluid supply tank 4 is received, at least partially, within a recess on an exterior surface of the main body 2. A fluid inlet (not shown) is provided in the recess to which the cleaning fluid supply tank 4 is fluidly connectable. The cleaning fluid supply tank 4 is positioned on a rear of the main body 2 with respect to a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. The cleaning fluid supply tank 4 is also positioned close to, or adjacent, the source of suction and/or the handle 3. The fluid inlet is fluidly connected to a cleaning fluid dispensing device 6 on the cleaner head 10. In the present disclosure the cleaning fluid dispensing device may be at least one spray nozzle, or spray nozzle device, 6, or first and second spray nozzles 60, 62 (shown in Figures 3 to 5 and 7 to 9). The at least one spray nozzle device 6, or first and second spray nozzles 60, 62, sprays cleaning fluid onto an agitator, or first and second agitators, of the cleaner head 10. The at least one spray nozzle, or the or each first and second spray nozzle 60, 62, may alternatively, or additionally, spray cleaning fluid onto a surface to be cleaned. The cleaning fluid dispensing device is fluidly connected to the fluid inlet via fluid channels which extend from and through the main body 2 to the cleaner head 10. This permits fluid from the cleaning fluid supply tank 4 to be conveyed to the cleaning fluid dispensing device 6.

The cleaning appliance 1 includes a dirt collection chamber, or recovery tank, 5. In the present embodiment, the main body 2 supports the recovery tank, 5 (as shown in Figure 1). The recovery tank 5 is provided in a lower half of the main body 2, closer to the cleaner head 10 than the handle 3. The recovery tank 5 is provided on a front of the main body with respect to a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. The recovery tank 5 may be fluidly connected to the source of suction.

Referring to Figures 2, 3, 5, 6, 8 and 9, the recovery tank 5 may include a top side 50, a bottom side 52, first and second sides 54, 56 and front and rear sides 58, 64. The top side 50 may be positioned closest to the handle 3 and/or the source of suction. The bottom side 52 may be positioned closest to the cleaner head 10 in a stored position. The first and second sides 54, 56 may extend between the top and bottom sides 50, 52. The first side 54 may be positioned closest to a first side 20 of the cleaner head 10 (described below). The second side 56 may be positioned closest to a second side 18 of the cleaner head 10 (described below). The front side 58 may extend between the first and second sides 54, 56 and the top and bottom sides 50, 52. The front side 58 may be positioned towards a front of the main body 2 with respect to a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. The front side 58 may include a handle 580 for assisting in removing the recovery tank 5 from the main body 2. The rear side 64 may extend between the first and second sides 54, 56 and the top and bottom sides 50, 52. The rear side 64 may be positioned generally opposite the front side 58. The rear side 64 may be positioned towards a rear of the main body 2 with respect to a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. The top, bottom, first, second, front and rear sides 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 64 may define a collection chamber 65 for collecting recovered dirt and/or liquid from a surface to be cleaned.

The recovery tank may be releasably connectable to the main body 2 (as shown in Figures 2, 3, 5,

6, 8 and 9). The recovery tank 5 may include a lid 51 (shown in Figure 11 ). The recovery tank 5, or lid 51 , may include a latch 66, optionally operated by a push button, positioned at the top side 50 of the recovery tank 5. The top side 50 may include a latch opening 67 and the latch 66 may align with the latch opening 67, in use. The latch 66 and the latch opening 67 may be positioned at the front side 58 of the recovery tank 5. The latch may include a spring to bias the latch 66 to engage a portion of the main body 2 to hold the recovery tank 5 relative to the main body 2. In use, the latch 66 may be pressed downwardly so the latch disengages the portion of the main body 2 and permits the recovery tank 5 to be removed from the main body 2. The lid 51 is described in more detail below.

As mentioned above, the cleaning appliance 1 includes a second fluid recovery pathway 1000.

The second fluid recovery pathway 1000 is connectable, or releasably connectable, to the recovery tank 5. The second fluid recovery pathway 1000 is also positioned outside the recovery tank 5. The second fluid recovery pathway 1000 is positioned rearwardly of the recovery tank 5 and/or between the recovery tank 5 and the main body 2. In particular, in the present embodiment, and as shown in Figures 2 and 7, the recovery pathway 1000 is positioned adjacent the rear side 64 of the recovery tank 5. The first and second sides 54, 56 of the recovery tank 5 effectively extend around the recovery pathway 1000 and may envelop the recovery pathway 1000 in combination with the main body 2. In embodiments, the collection chamber 65 may wrap around the recovery pathway 1000 and may have a U-shaped, or horseshoe shaped, cross-section in plan view. The second fluid recovery pathway 1000 may be positioned generally centrally with respect to the first and second sides 54, 56 of the recovery tank 5 and/or first and second side of the cleaning appliance 1 , said first and second sides being parallel with respect to a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. Such a construction may be advantageous in increasing the available volume within the recovery tank 5 for dirt and/or liquid recovered from a surface to be cleaned and making the recovery tank 5 easier to clean following use.

The second fluid recovery pathway 1000 Is removable from a remainder of the cleaning appliance 1. In embodiments the second fluid recovery pathway 1000 may be defined by a second fluid pathway member 1400 (best shown in Figure 10). The second fluid recovery pathway 1000 may extend along the second fluid pathway member 1400. The second fluid pathway member 1400 may be removable from a remainder of the cleaning appliance 1. Such a construction is advantageous. In particular, this construction permits a user to remove the second recovery pathway 1000 and/or the second fluid pathway member 1400 to enable easy cleaning of the appliance 1 and to remove any dirt or debris stuck in the second fluid recovery pathway 1000. It also enables access to other parts of a remainder of a fluid recovery pathway of the cleaning appliance 1 and so enables easier and more thorough cleaning of the cleaning appliance 1.

In the present embodiment the second fluid recovery pathway 1000, or second fluid pathway member 1400, is removable from the main body 2. In embodiments, the second fluid recovery pathway 1000, or second fluid pathway member 1400, may be removable from the recovery tank 5. In particular, in the present embodiment, the second fluid recovery pathway 1000, or second fluid pathway member 1400, is removable once the recovery tank 5 has been removed.

The second fluid pathway member 1400 may include a generally elongate main body 1402 and may include first and second respective fluid pathway member ends 1404, 1406. The first fluid pathway member end 1404 may be positioned closer to the first fluid recovery pathway 900 than the second fluid pathway member end 1406. The first fluid pathway member end 1404, in particular, may be fluidly connected to the first fluid recovery pathway 900 as is described in more detail below. The second fluid pathway member end 1406 may be positioned adjacent an opening in the recovery tank 5 as is described in more detail below. The second fluid pathway member 1400 is relatively rigid. The second fluid pathway member 1400 in the present embodiment is formed from plastic.

The second fluid pathway member 1400 is rotatably, pivotably, removable from the appliance 1. In particular, the second fluid pathway member 1400 may be rotatable, or pivotable, preferably downwardly towards the cleaner head 10 and/or away from the main body 2 to remove the second fluid pathway member 1400 from the cleaning appliance 1 , preferably towards the front of the main body 2 with respect to a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. The second fluid pathway member end 1406 of the second fluid pathway member 1400 may pivot downwardly with respect to the first fluid pathway member end 1404. The first fluid pathway member end 1404 may act as a pivot point for the second fluid pathway member 1400. In embodiments the second fluid pathway member 1400 may be removed through a side or rear of the main body 2 with respect to a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. In embodiments, the second fluid pathway member 1400 may be rotatable, or pivotable, preferably downwardly away from the recovery tank 5 for removal. In embodiments the second fluid pathway member 1400 may be slidably removable from the cleaning appliance 1.

The cleaning appliance 1 may include first and/or second fastener members 1410, 1412 for fastening the second fluid pathway member 1400 to a remainder of the cleaning appliance 1 , or the main body 2 or recovery tank 5. The first and second fastener members 1410, 1412 may be positioned closer to the second fluid pathway member end 1406 than the first fluid pathway member end 1404. In embodiments the first and second fastener members 1410, 1412 may be positioned at, adjacent or near the second fluid pathway member end 1406. In embodiments, the first and second fastener members 1410, 1412 may be positioned closer to the first fluid pathway member end 1404 than the second fluid pathway member end 1406. The first and second fastener members 1410, 1412 may be positioned on respective first and second sides of the second fluid pathway member 1400, or main body 1402 of the second fluid pathway member 1400 (as shown in figure 10). In particular, the first and second fastener members 1410, 1412 may be substantially equidistant from the first fluid recovery pathway 900. In the present embodiment the first and second fastener members 1410, 1412 are clips, or pinch clips, which may provide a snap-fit connection of the second fluid pathway member 1400 to a remainder of the cleaning appliance 1 , or main body 2 or recovery tank 5. This is described in more detail below. In embodiments the first and second fastener members 1410, 1412 may be provided by straps or slidable or bayonet style fastener members or other types of fastener members without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The first and second fastener members 1410, 1412 are substantially the same. Therefore, only the first fastener member 1410 will be described in detail.

The first fastener member 1410 may include first and second fastener portions 1414, 1416. The first fastener portion 1414 may be provided, or positioned, on the main body 2 or the recovery tank 5. The second fastener portion 1416 may be provided, or positioned, on the second fluid pathway member 1400, or main body 1402 of the second fluid pathway member 1400. The first fastener portion 1414, in use, fastens to the second fastener portion 1416 to fasten, or for fastening, the second fluid pathway member 1400 to the main body 2 or the recovery tank 5.

The first fastener portion 1414 may be a recess or opening in a sidewall 2000 of the main body 2. The sidewall 2000 may define the recess or opening. In the present embodiment the first fastener portion 1414 is an elongate slot in the sidewall 2000. In embodiments the first fastener portion 1414 may be a fastener formation or projection including a surface for abutting or engaging the second fastener portion 1416 and holding the second fastener portion 1416 relative thereto.

The second fastener portion 1416 may be a formation or protrusion. The second fastener portion 1416 may be resiliently, or elastically, deformable. In other words, if the second fastener portion 1416 is deflected it may be biased to return to its original position/condition. The second fastener portion 1416 may have a main body 1419 and first and second fastener portion ends 1418, 1420. The first fastener portion end 1418 may be attached, connected or fixed to the second fluid pathway member 1400. The second fastener portion end 1420 may engage the sidewall 2000 of the main body 2 of the cleaning appliance 1.

The main body 1419 of the second fastener portion 1416 may extend away from the main body 1402 of the second fluid pathway member 1400. The main body 1419 of the second fastener portion 1416 may extend away from the main body 1402 of the second fluid pathway member 1400 in a direction generally orthogonal to the main body 1402. In the present embodiment the main body 1419 of the second fastener portion 1416 may be generally rectilinear. In embodiments the main body 1419 may be curvilinear or other shapes without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The second fastener portion 1416 may include a projection 1422. The projection 1422 may be positioned at the second fastener portion end 1420 of the second fastener portion 1416. In particular, the projection 1422 may extend orthogonally away from the second fastener portion end 1420 of the second fastener portion 1416 and the second fluid pathway member 1400. In other words, the projection 1422 may extend towards the first and/or second sides 54, 56 of the recovery tank 5, when in situ, and/or the first and/or second sides of the cleaning appliance 1 , when in situ, with respect to a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. In particular, the projection 1422 may be trapezoidal in plan view. The projection 1422 may taper as it extends rearwardly or towards the first fastener portion 1414.

The second fastener portion 1416 in the present embodiment includes a gripping portion 1424. The gripping portion 1424 may be positioned between the first and second fastener portion ends 1418, 1420 of the first fastener portion 1416 and may be positioned on the main body 1419 of the second fastener portion 1416. The gripping portion 1424 may be provided as a series of ridges which extend generally vertically across the main body 1419 of the first fastener portion 1416. The second fastener portion 1416 may also include a series of strengthening formations 1426 which extend towards the first and second fastener portion ends 1418, 1420 of the second fastener portion 1416.

In use, the second fastener portion 1416 passes into the recess or through the first fastener portion opening 1414. The second fastener portion end 1420 or the projection 1422 is deflected or compressed inwardly by the sidewall 2000 as it passes into the recess or through the first fastener portion opening 1414. Once the second fastener portion end 1420 or projection 1422 has passed completely into the recess or through the first fastener position opening 1414 the second fastener portion end 1420 or projection 1422 returns to its original position and/or condition. The second fastener portion end 1420 or projection 1422 then abuts the sidewall 2000 for holding the fastener formation 1416 in the first fastener portion recess or first fastener portion opening 1414.

In embodiments the first fastener portion 1414 may include one or more or all the features of the second fastener portion 1416. In embodiments the first fastener portion 1414 may be substantially the same as the second fastener portion 1416 described above. In embodiments, the second fastener portion 1416 may include one or more or all the features of the first fastener portion 1414. In embodiments the second fastener portion 1416 may be substantially the same as the first fastener portion 1414 described above.

The first and second fluid pathway member ends 1404, 1406 may include first and second fluid pathway member openings 1500, 1502. The first fluid pathway member opening 1500 may be an inlet for the second fluid recovery pathway 1000. The second fluid pathway member opening 1502 may be a dirty air/liquid outlet for the second fluid recovery pathway 1000. The first fluid pathway member opening 1500 may be generally circular. The second fluid pathway member opening 1502 may be generally oval shaped. The first and second fluid pathway member openings 1500, 1502 are fluidly connected to the second fluid recovery pathway 1000. The first fluid pathway member opening 1500 is generally orthogonal to an elongate axis of the main body 1402 of the second fluid pathway member 1400. The second fluid pathway member opening 1502 may be inclined at an angle to a remainder of the second fluid pathway member 1400 and/or the first fluid pathway member end 1404 and/or the first fluid pathway member opening 1500. The second fluid pathway member opening 1502 may be inclined at an angle to a surface to be cleaned in a stored position and/or to a main axis of the main body 1402 of the second fluid pathway member 1400. In embodiments, the second fluid pathway member opening 1502 may be generally orthogonal to an elongate axis of the main body 1402 of the second fluid pathway member 1400. In embodiments, the first fluid pathway member opening 1500 may be inclined at an angle to the second fluid pathway member opening 1502. The first fluid pathway member opening 1500 may be inclined at an angle to a surface to be cleaned in a stored position and/or to a main axis of the main body 1402 of the second fluid pathway member 1400.

The first fluid pathway member end 1404 may include a first flange 1504. The second fluid pathway member end 1406 may include a second flange 1506. The flanges 1504, 1506 may provide a seal for sealing the openings 1500, 1502 between the first and second fluid recovery pathways 900, 1000 and the second fluid recovery pathway 1000 and the recovery tank 5.

As can be seen in the Figures, the main body 2 of the cleaning appliance 1 defines a space in which the recovery tank is positioned in use, preferably in a lower half of the main body 2. The main body 2 of the cleaning appliance 1 includes an upwardly facing surface 2010 on which the recovery tank 5 may rest in use. The main body 2 may also include a retaining formation or retaining wall 2012 which extends away, preferably upwardly, from the upwardly facing surface 2010 for retaining the recovery tank 5 on the upwardly facing surface 2010. The retaining wall 2012 may extend around at least a portion of a periphery of the upwardly facing surface 2010. The upwardly facing surface 2010 may extend towards and connect to the sidewall 2000. The recovery tank 5 may include a groove 500 positioned at or adjacent the bottom side 52 of the recovery tank 5. In use, the groove 500 may receive the retaining wall 2012. The bottom side 52 of the recovery tank 5 may include one or more, or first and second retaining projections 502, 504 which may be positioned towards a rear side 64 of the recovery tank 5. The upwardly facing surface 2010 may include, one or more, or first and second retaining recesses 506, 508 which in use receive the first and second retaining projections 502, 504 for retaining the recovery tank 5 relative to the main body 2. The upwardly facing surface 2010 may include one or more retaining projections 509 (which may be frusto-conical in shape) which in use may be received by a retaining recess 505 of the recovery tank 5 (which may be defined by a frusto-conical portion of the bottom side 52 of the recovery tank 5) for retaining the recovery tank 5 relative to the main body 2. The main body 2 may include a second fluid pathway recess 2014. In the present embodiment the second fluid pathway recess 2014 is positioned, or located, in the upwardly facing surface 2010. A recess sidewall 2016 may be provided about at least a portion of a periphery of the second fluid pathway recess 2014. The recess sidewall 2016 may define the second fluid pathway recess 2014.

The first fluid recovery pathway 900 may include an outlet 902. The outlet 902 may be positioned in the main body 2 of the cleaning appliance 1 . In the present embodiment the outlet 902 is positioned in the recess 2014. In embodiments, the outlet 902 may not be positioned in a recess. In embodiments the outlet 902 may directly connect, or attach, to the second fluid recovery pathway 1000.

The first fluid pathway member end 1404 may be received in the second fluid pathway recess 2014. In particular, the first flange 1504 may be received in the second fluid pathway recess 2014 for providing a seal between the first and second fluid recovery pathways 900, 1000. In the present embodiment the first flange 1504 is substantially the same size and/or shape as the second fluid pathway recess 2014. In other words, the first flange 1504 may be a complementary shape to the second fluid pathway recess 2014.

As mentioned above, the recovery tank 5 includes an opening, or inlet 800 through which dirt and dirt laden liquid is received in use. The inlet 800 may be positioned in a sidewall of the recovery tank 5. In particular, the inlet 800 may be positioned in the rear side 64 of the recovery tank 5, optionally below the top side 50 of the recovery tank 5. The rear side 64 of the recovery tank 5 may include an angled portion in which the inlet 800 is positioned. In embodiments, the inlet 800 may be positioned in other walls of the recovery tank 5. In the present embodiment the inlet 800 is generally oval shaped. In embodiments, the inlet 800 may be other shapes such as circular, square, triangular, rectangular or other shapes without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The second fluid pathway member end 1406 is positioned adjacent the inlet 800 in use to connect the second fluid recovery pathway 1000 to the recovery tank 5. In particular, the second fluid pathway member opening 1502 may be in fluid communication with the inlet 800 and/or be positioned adjacent, close or near to the inlet 800. As mentioned above, the second flange 1506 may form a seal around the second fluid pathway member opening 1502. The second flange 1506 may seal the second fluid pathway member end 1406 to the recovery tank 5, and preferably the inlet 800. A deflection wall 802 may be positioned around at least a portion of the inlet 800 (as shown in Figures 12 and 13). The deflection wall 802 may be for deflecting dirt and/or dirt laden liquid downwardly into the recovery tank 5. The deflection wall 802 extends away from the rear side 64 towards the front side 58. The deflection wall 802 in the present embodiment diverges away from the inlet 800 as it extends towards the front side 58. In embodiments, this may not be the case and the deflection wall 802 may extend aligned with a periphery of the inlet 800 towards the front side 58.

As mentioned above, the recovery tank includes a lid 51. The lid 51 , in use, is positioned on the top side 50 of the recovery tank 5. The lid 51 may include a filter recess 520 for a filter 522 of the cleaning appliance 1 , which may be pleated. In use, the filter 522 is positioned in the recess 520. The lid 51 includes a clean air outlet 524 from the recovery tank 5 to the source of suction. The clean air outlet 524 fluidly connects the recovery tank 5 to the source of suction through the filter 522. In other words, the clean air outlet is in fluid communication with the filter 522. In the present embodiment the clean air outlet 524 is positioned directly underneath the filter 522 and/or the filter recess 520. The recovery tank also includes a float 526, or air/liquid separator. The float 526 is mounted on the lid 51 to permit easy removal and cleaning of the float 526. In the present embodiment the float 526 is slidably connected to the lid 51 and moves between first and second positions. In the first position clean air is permitted to flow through the clean air outlet 524. In the second position clean air is prevented, or inhibited, from flowing through the clean air outlet 524. The movement of the float between the first and second positions is controlled by the volume of liquid in the recovery tank 5.

In the present embodiment the float 526, and the clean air outlet 524 are positioned in front of the inlet 800 and/or the deflection wall 802, with respect to a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. The lid 51 includes a further deflection wall 804. The further deflection wall 804, when the lid 51 is mounted to the top side 50 of the recovery tank 5, may combine with the deflection wall 800 to direct dirt and dirt laden liquid from the inlet 800 downwardly towards the bottom side 52 of the recovery tank 5. The further deflection wall 804 may extend generally vertically downwardly. The further deflection wall 804 may be positioned between the float 526 and/or the clean air outlet 524 and the inlet 800. This may be advantageous in ensuring efficient operation of the cleaner and minimising the filter 522 coming into contact with liquid and so preventing premature wear.

The cleaner head 10 is described in more detail below with reference to Figures 16 to 19.

In the present embodiment the cleaner head 10 includes wheels 22, 24 (best seen in Figure 19) which are positioned at a rear side 16 of the cleaner head 10. In particular, the wheels 22, 24 are positioned either side of the outlet pipe 9 which fluidly connects the dirty air outlet 26 (as indicated in figures 7 to 9) of the cleaner head 10 to the dirt collection container 5. As can be seen in Figure 19, further wheels 21 , 23 are provided on a bottom side, or floor facing side, of the cleaner head 10. The further wheels 21 , 23 may be positioned generally midway between a front and rear side of the cleaner head 10. The wheels 22, 24 and further wheels 21 , 23 permit the surface cleaning appliance 1 to move across a surface to be cleaned. In other embodiments the cleaner head 10 may be provided with a roller instead of, or in addition to, the wheels 22, 24 positioned at the rear side 16 of the cleaner head 10.

The cleaner head 10 includes a housing 12 which is movable along a surface to be cleaned. As shown in figure 19, the housing 12 includes a front side 14 and first and second sides, e.g. right and left sides, 20, 18 which extend between the front side 14 and the rear side 16. The first side 20 is positioned generally opposite the second side 18. The front side 14, rear side 16, and first and second sides 20, 18 define a periphery which defines a footprint of the cleaner head 10. The housing 12 includes a bottom side, or floor facing side, 28 which is described in more detail below.

The housing 12 includes a top side 25. The top side 25 extends between the front side 14, rear side 16 and first and second sides 20, 18. In use, the top side 25 faces away from a surface to be cleaned. The housing 12 at least partially defines a chamber 13. The chamber 13 at least partially surrounds first and second agitators as described in more detail below.

The cleaner head 10 also includes first and second agitators 110, 112. The first and second agitators 110, 112 may be rotatable about respective axes R1, R2 within the chamber 13 (shown in figure 17). The axis R1 is generally parallel to a surface to be cleaned and orthogonal to a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. The axis R2 is generally parallel to a surface to be cleaned and orthogonal to a fore-aft direction in which the cleaner is moved during use. The first and second agitators 110, 112 are releasably connectable, or are removable from, the chamber 13, or housing 12.

In the present embodiment the first and second agitators 110, 112 are positioned generally side by side within the chamber 13. In other words, the chamber 13 at least partially surrounds the first and second agitators 110, 112. As can be seen in the figures the first agitator 110 is positioned on the first, right, side 20 of the housing 12 and the second agitator 112 is positioned on the second, left, side 18 of the housing 12. In other words, the first agitator 110 is positioned closer to the first side of the housing 12 than the second agitator 112. The second agitator 112 is positioned closer to the second side of the housing 12 than the first agitator 110. In embodiments the first agitator may be positioned closer to the second side than the second agitator. In embodiments the second agitator may be positioned closer to the first side than the first agitator. In the present embodiment the first and second agitators 110, 112 are generally coaxial. In other words, the axes R1, R2 of the first and second agitators 110, 112 may be aligned. In embodiments the first and second agitators 110, 112 may be generally parallel. For example, the second agitator 112 may be positioned rearwardly of the first agitator 110. In further envisaged embodiments the first agitator 110 may be inclined at an angle to the second agitator 112. The first agitator 110, or the axis R1 of the first agitator 110, may be inclined at an angle to the front and/or rear sides 14, 16 of the housing 12. The second agitator 112, or the axis R2 of the second agitator 112, may be inclined at an angle to the front and/or rear sides 14, 16 of the housing 12. In other words, in embodiments the first and second agitators 110, 112 may form a V shape in plan view. The first and second agitators 110, 112 may be separated by an intermediate portion of the housing 12 which extends into the chamber 13. The first and/or second agitators 110, 112 may be driven by a motor.

In the present disclosure the first and second agitators 110, 112 are substantially the same, or the second agitator 112 is a mirror image of the first agitator 110. Therefore, only the first agitator 110 will be described in detail. In embodiments the first and second agitators 110, 112 may differ. In embodiments, the second agitator may include one or more or all the features of the first agitator. In further envisaged embodiments the second agitator may not share any features with the first agitator. For example, the first and second agitators 110, 112 may each have a respective length and diameter. In the present embodiment the first and second agitators have the same, or substantially the same, length and diameter. In embodiments, the first agitator may have a length and/or diameter which is greater than the second agitator. In embodiments, the second agitator may have a length and/or diameter which is greater than the first agitator.

Referring to figures 12 to 14 the first agitator 110 in the present embodiment is a brush bar. The first agitator 110 is formed as a generally cylindrical member including a main body 114. The main body may include a microfibre material 117 on its outer surface 113. In other words, the first agitator 110 may include microfibre. The microfibre material 117 may be tufted. The first agitator 110, or main body 114, may include bristles 118. The bristles 118 may be interspersed with the microfibre material. The bristles 118 may be provided in tufts in a helical pattern on the outer surface of the first agitator 110.

The bottom side, or floor facing side, 28 extends between the front side 14, rear side 16 and first and second sides 20, 18. In use the bottom side, or floor facing side, 28 faces a surface to be cleaned.

The bottom side, or floor facing side, 28 includes first, second and third floor engaging devices 30, 32, 34 and first and second wiper devices 70, 72. In the present embodiment the first, second and third floor engaging devices 30, 32, 34 are lint pick up strips, or felt strips. The first and second wiper devices 70, 72, in the present embodiment, are squeegees. The or each floor engaging device 30, 32, 34 is positioned rearwardly of the wiper device 70 and/or the dirty air inlet 27. The or each floor engaging device 30, 32, 34 is positioned forwardly of the wiper device 72. In other words, the or each floor engaging device 30, 32, 34 is positioned between the first and second wiper devices 70, 72. Each of the first, second and third floor engaging devices 30, 32, 34 and the first and second wiper devices 70, 72 extend laterally, preferably linearly, between the first and second sides 20, 18 of the housing 12. In the present embodiment the first, second and third floor engaging devices 30, 32, 34 and the first and second wiper devices 70, 72 each have approximately the same length. In embodiments, this may not be the case. For example, the first and/or second and/or third floor engaging device may have a length greater than, or less than, the first and/or second wiper 70, 72. In embodiments the first, second or third floor engaging devices 30, 32, 34 may have a length greater than or less than the other of the respective first, second or third floor engaging devices 30, 32, 34. In embodiments the first wiper 70 may have a greater length than the second wiper 72. In embodiments, the second wiper 72 may have a greater length than the first wiper 70.

In the present embodiment, the first and second floor engaging devices 30, 32 may be positioned forwardly of the further wheels 21 , 23. The third floor engaging device 34 is positioned rearwardly of the further wheels 21 , 23. The first wiper device 70 is positioned forwardly of the further wheels 21 , 23. The second wiper device 72 is positioned rearwardly of the further wheels 21 , 23. In embodiments this may not be the case. For example, the further wheels 21 , 23 may be positioned forwardly of any one or more or all the first, second and third floor engaging devices 30, 32, 34 and/or the first wiper device 70. In embodiments, the further wheels 21 , 23 may be positioned rearwardly for the second wiper device 72.

One or more or all the first, second and third floor engaging devices 30, 32, 34 and the first and second wiper devices 70, 72 may be mounted to a base 36 releasably connected to the bottom side 28 of the housing 12. The base 36 may include first and second openings 37, 38 through which the further wheels 21 , 23 extend. The base 36 may be held relative to the housing 12 by fasteners 35, 39. In the present embodiment the fasteners are screws.

Bleed air inlets 92, 90 may be provided in the first and second sides 20, 18. The bleed air inlets 92, 90 may be fluidly connected to the chamber 13. The bleed air inlets 92, 90 may be positioned forwardly of the wiper device 70. Side sealing strips 94, 96 may be provided on the first and second sides 20, 18 of the housing 12. The side sealing strips 94, 96 may be positioned forwardly of the bleed air inlets 92, 90.

As shown on Figure 10, the bottom side, or floor facing side, 28 includes a dirty air inlet 27 through which dirt entrained air and dirty cleaning fluid may be received by the cleaner head 10. The dirty air inlet 27 extends between a portion of the agitator which contacts the surface to be cleaned in use and the first wiper device 70.

The chamber 13 at least partially surrounds the first and second agitators 110, 112. The chamber 13 is at least partially defined by a rear chamber wall 201. The rear chamber wall 201 defines the dirty air outlet 26. The dirty air outlet 26 is fluidly connected to the chamber 13. The chamber 13 is also fluidly connected to the dirty air inlet 27 which faces the surface to be cleaned.

The chamber is also defined by respective first and second side walls 200, 180 which are respectively positioned closer to or adjacent the first and second sides 20, 18 of the housing 12. The second side wall 180 is a mirror image of the first side wall 200 and so only the first side wall 200 is described in detail. The side wall 200 includes an inwardly facing surface 202. The inwardly facing surface 202 includes a recess 204. The inwardly facing surface 202 also includes an abutment wall 205 which at least partially defines the recess 204. The recess 204 receives, in use, a second end of the first agitator 110 when the agitator 110 is inserted into the chamber 13. The first agitator 110 also abuts the abutment wall 205 once it is in position for providing a snap-fit connection for the first agitator 110. The housing 12 may include an intermediate portion 300 which extends into the chamber 13. In particular the intermediate portion 300 extends downwardly, preferably vertically, from the top side 25 towards the bottom side 28. The first agitator 110 may be positioned to a first side of the intermediate portion 300 and the second agitator 112 may be positioned to a second side of the intermediate portion 300.

The chamber 13 includes an opening 15 for permitting access to and removal of the first and second agitators 110, 112 from the chamber 13. The opening 15 extends at least partially across the front side 14 of the housing 12 between the first and second sides 20, 18 and the top and bottom sides 25, 28. The cleaner head 10 includes a cover 17 positioned, in use, over the opening 15 on the front side 14 of the housing 12. The cover 17 also extends across the front side 14 of the housing 12 and between the first and second sides 20, 18 and the top and bottom sides 25, 28. In embodiments, the opening 15 and/or the cover 17 may extend towards and across the front side 14 and/or the top side 25 and/or the rear side 16 and/or the bottom side 28 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The cover 17 is cooperatively associated with the housing 12 for permitting access to the chamber 13 through the opening 15 in the front side 14 of the housing 12. In use, the first and second agitators 110, 112 may be positioned adjacent the cover 17. In Figures 1 , 2, 6 and 10 the cover 17 is shown closing the opening 15. In Figures 3 to 5, 7 to 9 and 15 to 17 the cover 17 has been moved to and is shown in an agitator access position. The cover 17 is typically in an, in use, position in which the cover 17 covers the opening 15. The cover 17 is movable to an agitator access position to permit the first and second agitators 110, 112 to be removed from the chamber 13 through the opening 15 in a direction substantially orthogonal to the axes R1 , R2 of the first and second agitators 110, 112 and in a direction which is substantially parallel to a plane of the surface to be cleaned. In particular, the second end of the first agitator 110 is pivoted about a first end of the first agitator 110 to remove the second end through the opening 15 before the remainder of the first agitator 110 is removed through the opening 15. A second end of the second agitator 112 is pivoted about a first end of the second agitator 112 to remove the second end through the opening 15 before the remainder of the second agitator 112 is removed through the opening 15.

The cover 17 is releasably connectable, or removable from the housing 12. In particular, the cleaner head 10 includes a holding member 40, as shown in the Figures, in the form of a latch biased by a spring, positioned on the top side 25 of the housing 12 generally midway between the first and second sides 20, 18 of the housing 12 for holding the cover 17 in position relative to the housing 12 in a chamber closed position. The latch may be pivotably connected to the housing 12. In the present embodiment the cover 17 is pivotably movable and/or slidably movable, preferably downwardly, with respect to the housing 12, e.g., when the cover is moved to an agitator access position. In particular, the cover 17 is pivotably movable downwardly and releasably connectable to the housing 12 when the cover is moved to an agitator access position. To open the cover 17 the holding member 40 is depressed which compresses the spring. The pivoting action of the holding member 40 causes the holding member 40 to pivot upwardly to disengage from the cover 17. This permits the cover 17 to pivot downwardly. The spring then biases the holding member 40 to its original position. To close the cover 17, once opened, a user pivots the cover upwardly and/or slides the cover towards a chamber closed position. This action causes the holding member 40 to pivot upwardly and compress the spring. Once in position the holding member 40 pivot downwardly into engagement with the cover 17 by virtue of the compressive force stored in the spring.

When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Although certain example embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited solely to these embodiments. The claims are to be construed literally, purposively, and/or to encompass equivalents. The invention may also broadly consist in the parts, elements, steps, examples and/or features referred to or indicated in the specification individually or collectively in any and all combinations of two or more said parts, elements, steps, examples and/or features. In particular, one or more features in any of the embodiments described herein may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiment(s) described herein.

Protection may be sought for any features disclosed in any one or more published documents referenced herein in combination with the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A cleaning appliance, including: a main body; a cleaner head for suctioning dirt from a surface to be cleaned, including: a dirty air inlet; and a dirty air outlet; a recovery tank for collecting dirt and/or dirty liquid; a first fluid recovery pathway; and a second fluid recovery pathway; wherein the first fluid recovery pathway is fluidly connectable to the dirty air outlet and the second fluid recovery pathway; wherein the second fluid recovery pathway is fluidly connectable to the recovery tank, and is positioned outside the recovery tank, and wherein the second fluid recovery pathway is removable from a remainder of the cleaning appliance.

2. A cleaning appliance according to claim 1 wherein the second fluid recovery pathway is positioned rearwardly of the recovery tank.

3. A cleaning appliance according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the recovery tank is releasably connectable to the main body; and wherein the second fluid recovery pathway is removable when the recovery tank is removed.

4. A cleaning appliance according to any preceding claim wherein the second fluid recovery pathway is defined by a second fluid pathway member, said second fluid pathway member including first and second ends wherein the first end is closer to the first fluid recovery pathway than the second end.

5. A cleaning appliance according to claim 4 wherein the second fluid pathway member is releasably connectable to the remainder of the cleaning appliance.

6. A cleaning appliance according to claim 4 or claim 5 wherein the second fluid pathway member is rotatable, or pivotable, preferably downwardly towards the cleaner head, to remove the second fluid pathway member from the cleaning appliance.

7. A cleaning appliance according to any one of claims 4 to 6 including a (first) fastener member for fastening the second fluid pathway member to the main body or the recovery tank.

8. A cleaning appliance according to claim 7 wherein the fastener member is positioned closer to the second end than the first end; or wherein the fastener member is positioned at or adjacent the second end.

9. A cleaning appliance according to claim 7 or claim 8 wherein the fastener member includes a first fastener portion positioned on the main body or recovery tank and a second fastener portion positioned on the second fluid pathway member; wherein the first fastener portion fastens to the second fastener portion to fasten the second fluid pathway member relative to the main body or recovery tank.

10. A cleaning appliance according to claim 9 wherein the first fastener portion is a fastener recess / opening defined by a sidewall of the main body or recovery tank; and wherein the second fastener portion is a fastener formation including a projection; wherein, in use, the fastener formation is received in the fastener recess / opening and the projection abuts the sidewall for holding the fastener formation in the fastener recess / opening.

11. A cleaning appliance according to any one of claims 7 to 10 including a second fastener member; wherein the first fastener member is positioned to a first side of the second fluid pathway member and the second fastener member is positioned to a second, opposite, side of the second fluid pathway member.

12. A cleaning appliance according to claim 11 wherein the second fastener member includes one or more or all of the features of the first fastener member as set forth in claims 7 to 10.

13. A cleaning appliance according to claim 11 or claim 12 wherein the first and second fastener members are substantially equidistant from the first fluid recovery pathway.

14. A cleaning appliance according to any one of claims 4 to 13 wherein an outlet of the first fluid recovery pathway is positioned in the main body; and wherein the main body includes a second fluid pathway recess; wherein the outlet of the first fluid recovery pathway is located in the second fluid pathway recess; wherein the first end includes a flange; and wherein the flange, in use, is received in the second fluid pathway recess.

15. A cleaning appliance according to claim 14 wherein the flange is substantially the same size and/or shape as the second fluid pathway recess.

16. A cleaning appliance according to claim 14 or claim 15 wherein the main body includes an upwardly facing surface in which the second fluid pathway recess is located.

17. A cleaning appliance according to claim 16 wherein, in use, the recovery tank rests on the upwardly facing surface.

18. A cleaning appliance according to claim 17 wherein the upwardly facing surface includes a retaining formation, e.g., a retaining wall, which extends away therefrom; wherein, in use, the retaining formation retains the recovery tank on the upwardly facing surface.

19. A cleaning appliance according to any one of claims 4 to 18 wherein the recovery tank includes an inlet, e.g., positioned in a sidewall of the recovery tank, through which dirt and dirt laden liquid is received in use; and wherein the second end includes a dirty air / liquid outlet which is fluidly connected to the second fluid recovery pathway; wherein the second end is positioned adjacent the inlet to connect the second fluid recovery pathway to the recovery tank.

20. A cleaning appliance according to claim 19 including a seal positioned around the dirty air / liquid outlet in the second end to seal the second end to the recovery tank.

21. A cleaning appliance according to claim 19 or claim 20 wherein the second end is inclined at an angle to a remainder of the second fluid pathway member and/or the first end.

22. A cleaning appliance according to any preceding claim wherein the second fluid recovery pathway is positioned generally centrally with respect to the main body and/or the recovery tank.

23. A cleaning appliance according to any preceding claim wherein the recovery tank extends towards and / or around first and second respective sides of the second fluid recovery pathway.

24. A cleaning appliance according to any preceding claim including a fluid supply tank, e.g., positioned on a rear of the main body; and a spray nozzle device, or first and second spray nozzle devices, for dispensing, directly or indirectly, cleaning fluid onto a surface to cleaned.

25. A cleaning appliance according to any preceding claim wherein the cleaner head includes an agitator, or first and second agitators.