EP4536051A1 - Vacuum cleaner nozzle and vacuum cleaner - Google Patents

Vacuum cleaner nozzle and vacuum cleaner

Info

Publication number
EP4536051A1
EP4536051A1 EP22733059.4A EP22733059A EP4536051A1 EP 4536051 A1 EP4536051 A1 EP 4536051A1 EP 22733059 A EP22733059 A EP 22733059A EP 4536051 A1 EP4536051 A1 EP 4536051A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
nozzle
flow guiding
guiding element
guiding elements
suction port
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP22733059.4A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Roger Karlsson
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Electrolux AB
Original Assignee
Electrolux AB
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Electrolux AB filed Critical Electrolux AB
Publication of EP4536051A1 publication Critical patent/EP4536051A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/02—Nozzles
    • A47L9/06—Nozzles with fixed, e.g. adjustably fixed brushes or the like
    • A47L9/0633—Nozzles with fixed, e.g. adjustably fixed brushes or the like with retractable brushes, combs, lips or pads

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to a vacuum cleaner nozzle.
  • the present disclosure further relates to a vacuum cleaner comprising a vacuum cleaner nozzle.
  • a vacuum cleaner also known as a sweeper or hoover, is a device that uses an air pump, most often a centrifugal fan, to create a partial vacuum at a vacuum cleaner nozzle of the vacuum cleaner in order to suck up dust and dirt from surfaces, such as floors, carpets, beds, and the like.
  • the dust and dirt are collected by a separator unit of the vacuum cleaner, such as a dust bag or a cyclone arrangement, for later disposal.
  • Most vacuum cleaner nozzles comprise an arrangement at a nozzle base of the nozzle comprising a first section arranged in front of a suction port as seen relative to a forward moving direction of the nozzle and a second section arranged in front of a suction port as seen relative to a reverse moving direction of the nozzle.
  • Such arrangements typically comprise a first section in the form of a first elongated brush assembly and a second section in the form of a second elongated brush assembly, wherein each elongated brush assembly typically comprise a number of brush pockets constituting open sections of the elongated brush assembly.
  • such types of arrangements can increase suction, i.e. , can increase the partial vacuum between the arrangement and the suction port, by restricting flow towards the suction port, especially when cleaning harder types of surfaces, such as floor surfaces.
  • many vacuum cleaner nozzles comprise a mechanism for moving the sections of the above-mentioned arrangement between an extracted position, in which the sections, such as the first and second elongated brush assemblies, protrude out from the nozzle base, and a retracted position, in which the sections are moved to a respective retracted position into the nozzle base of the nozzle.
  • Such vacuum cleaner nozzles require a user to manually change the setting of the mechanism when moving from harder types of surfaces to softer types of surfaces, and vice versa.
  • a typical household comprise several harder and softer types of surfaces which require users to frequently perform manual changes of the setting of the mechanism during a cleaning session, which is burdensome for users.
  • the sections of the above-mentioned arrangement when the sections of the above-mentioned arrangement is in the respective extracted position, the sections can prevent objects and particles from reaching the suction port.
  • the object is achieved by a vacuum cleaner nozzle configured to be moved over a floor surface.
  • the nozzle comprises a nozzle base configured to face the floor surface during operation of the nozzle.
  • the nozzle base comprises a suction port and a number of flow guiding elements arranged adjacent to the suction port.
  • Each flow guiding element of the number of flow guiding elements has a cross section tapering away from the suction port as seen along a direction from the suction port towards the flow guiding element, and wherein each flow guiding element is movably arranged in directions into and out from the nozzle base between a retracted and an extracted position.
  • the nozzle base of the nozzle comprises a number of a flow guiding elements each having a cross section tapering away from the suction port as seen along a direction from the suction port towards the flow guiding element, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port for guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner. This is because the tapering cross section of the flow guiding elements forms funnel shaped openings between two adjacent flow guiding elements of the number of flow guiding elements.
  • each flow guiding element is movably arranged in directions into and out from the nozzle base, a nozzle is provided circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa. As a result, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided.
  • each flow guiding element is movably arranged in directions into and out from the nozzle base, advantageous flow characteristics and an advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements and the suction port also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like. This is because the abutting contact between portions of the softer type of surface and the flow guiding elements can move the flow guiding elements to positions between the retracted and extracted positions.
  • the nozzle comprises the number of a flow guiding elements each having the tapered cross section and being movably arranged in directions into and out from the nozzle base, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for low frictional forces between the nozzle and a surface to be cleaned, also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like.
  • one or more flow guiding elements of the number of flow guiding elements is/are biased towards the extracted position by at least one spring element.
  • vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided further circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa.
  • each flow guiding element can be moved to its extracted position also when the nozzle is held in a nonhorizontal orientation, such as when cleaning vertical surfaces, and the like.
  • a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner.
  • the flow guiding elements of the second set of flow guiding elements have identical but mirrored design as the flow guiding elements of the first set of flow guiding elements.
  • a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner.
  • a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having the same, or at least similar, operational characteristics when moved in the reverse moving direction over a surface as when moved in forward moving direction over the surface.
  • the first and second sets of flow guiding elements comprises the same number of flow guiding elements.
  • a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner.
  • a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having the same, or at least similar, operational characteristics when moved in the reverse moving direction over a surface as when moved in forward moving direction over the surface.
  • each flow guiding element comprises a wide section facing the suction port and a narrow section facing away from the suction port, and wherein the narrow section comprises an elongated portion having a direction of elongation being substantially parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction of the nozzle.
  • a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided in which the number of flow guiding elements can be moved in a direction towards the respective retracted position in a more efficient manner when a flow guiding element is abutting against an elevated part of a surface, such as an edge of a carpet, or the like, or is abutting against an object or particle.
  • the nozzle base comprises a number of apertures, and wherein each flow guiding element is arranged at least partially inside an aperture of the number of apertures.
  • each flow guiding element is pivotally arranged between the retracted and the extracted positions.
  • a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner while having conditions for guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner during use of the vacuum cleaner nozzle.
  • each flow guiding element comprises a first and a second surface each facing in a direction towards the floor surface during operation of the nozzle, wherein the first surface is substantially parallel to the floor surface when the flow guiding element is in the extracted position, and wherein the second surface is substantially parallel to the floor surface when the flow guiding element is in the retracted position.
  • the object is achieved by a vacuum cleaner comprising a vacuum cleaner nozzle according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
  • a vacuum cleaner is provided circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa. As a result, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner is provided.
  • vacuum cleaner comprising a vacuum cleaner nozzle capable of guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner also when cleaning softer types of surfaces.
  • a vacuum cleaner is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.
  • Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vacuum cleaner according to some embodiments
  • Fig. 4 illustrates a view straight towards a nozzle base of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in Fig. 3,
  • Fig. 5 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in Fig. 3,
  • Fig. 7 illustrates a first cross section of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in
  • Fig. 8a illustrates a second cross of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in Fig.
  • Fig. 9 illustrates an enlarged view of a pair of flow guiding elements of the nozzle base of a vacuum cleaner nozzle explained with reference to Fig. 3 - Fig. 8b,
  • Fig. 11 illustrates a view straight towards a nozzle base of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in Fig. 10,
  • Fig. 13 illustrates the enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base of Fig. 12 in which flow guiding elements of a number of flow guiding elements have been moved to a respective retracted position
  • Fig. 14 illustrates a first cross section of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in Fig. 10,
  • Fig. 15b illustrates the second cross section of Fig. 15a in which a flow guiding element has been moved to the retracted position
  • Fig. 16 illustrates an enlarged view of a pair of flow guiding elements of the nozzle base of a vacuum cleaner nozzle explained with reference to Fig. 10 - Fig. 15b,
  • Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vacuum cleaner 20 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
  • the vacuum cleaner 20 is a canister vacuum cleaner.
  • the vacuum cleaner 20 as referred to herein may be another type of vacuum cleaner, such as a drum vacuum cleaner, a hand-held vacuum cleaner, a stick-type vacuum cleaner, a robotic vacuum cleaner, a central vacuum cleaner, or the like.
  • the vacuum cleaner 20 comprises a vacuum cleaner body 22 and an air pump assembly, such as a centrifugal fan and a motor, arranged inside the vacuum cleaner body 22, wherein the air pump assembly is configured to generate an airflow from an air inlet 24 of the vacuum cleaner 20 to an air outlet 26 of the vacuum cleaner 20.
  • an air pump assembly such as a centrifugal fan and a motor
  • the vacuum cleaner 20 further comprises a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T.
  • the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1, T is in some places herein referred to as “the nozzle 1 , T”.
  • the nozzle 1 , T is illustrated as being attached to the stick 34 of the vacuum cleaner hose 28 of the vacuum cleaner 20.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T illustrated in Fig. 1.
  • the nozzle 1 , T is illustrated as positioned in an upright use position on a floor surface 30.
  • the nozzle 1 , T comprises a nozzle base 3.
  • the nozzle base 3 is configured to face a floor surface 30 when the nozzle 1 , T is positioned in the upright use position on the floor surface 30.
  • the nozzle base 3 configured to face the floor surface 30 during operation of the nozzle 1 , T.
  • the nozzle 1 , T is configured to be moved along a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1 , T during operation.
  • the reverse moving direction rd is opposite to, and thus also parallel to, the forward moving direction fd.
  • the nozzle 1 , T comprises a number of wheels 4 arranged at the nozzle base 3, wherein the wheels 4 are configured to roll against a surface 30 during operation of the nozzle 1 , T.
  • each wheel 4 of the number of wheels 4 has a rolling direction being parallel to the forward and the reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1 , T.
  • Fig. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an underside of a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
  • the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1, T illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 may be a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 3.
  • the vacuum cleaner 20 illustrated in Fig. 1 may comprise a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 3.
  • the nozzle 1 comprises a connection section 36.
  • the connection section 36 is tubular.
  • a portion of the stick 34 of the vacuum cleaner 20 protrudes into the connection section 36 of the nozzle 1.
  • Fig. 4 illustrates a view straight towards the nozzle base 3 of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 illustrated in Fig. 3.
  • the flow guiding elements 7 has been provided with the reference sign “7” in Fig. 4.
  • each flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a direction d1 , d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7.
  • each flow guiding element 7 of the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7 has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a respective first direction d1 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7.
  • each flow guiding element 7 of the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7 has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a respective second direction d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7.
  • the respective first directions d1 are each parallel to, and points in the same direction as, the forward moving direction fd of the nozzle 1.
  • the respective second directions d2 are each parallel to, and points in the same direction as, the reverse moving direction rd of the nozzle 1.
  • each flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a direction d1, d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7, wherein the direction d1 , d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7 is parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1.
  • the suction port 5 and the number of flow guiding elements 7 are arranged such that the direction d1 , d2 from the suction port 5 towards the respective flow guiding elements 7 are parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1.
  • each flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 is movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3 between a retracted and an extracted position.
  • each flow guiding element 7 is illustrated in the extracted position.
  • Fig. 5 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle 1 illustrated in Fig. 3.
  • the flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 are illustrated in a respective extracted position.
  • the flow guiding elements 7 protrude out from the nozzle base 3 when in the flow guiding elements 7 are in the respective extracted position.
  • Fig. 6 illustrates the enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base 3 of Fig. 5 in which the flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 have been moved to a respective retracted position.
  • the retracted position constitutes a position in which a flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 does not protrude out from the nozzle base 3.
  • each flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 is movably arranged relative to the nozzle base 3 such that the flow guiding element 7 can assume a position between the retracted and extracted positions.
  • the nozzle base 3 comprises a number of apertures 9, wherein each flow guiding element 7 is movably arranged at least partially inside an aperture 9 of the number of apertures 9 between the retracted and extracted positions.
  • Fig. 7 illustrates a first cross section of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 illustrated in Fig. 3.
  • the first cross section of Fig. 7 is made in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1.
  • the first cross section is made through a portion of the nozzle base 3 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7 as seen in a direction perpendicular to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1.
  • the nozzle 1 is illustrated as positioned in an upright use position on a floor surface 30 and the flow guiding elements 7 are illustrated in a respective extracted position.
  • Fig. 8a illustrates a second cross of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 illustrated in Fig. 3.
  • the second cross section of Fig. 8a is made in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1.
  • the second cross section is made through a portion of the nozzle base 3 at which a flow guiding element 7 is arranged.
  • the second cross section of Fig. 8a extends through a flow guiding element 7 in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1.
  • the nozzle 1 is illustrated as positioned in an upright use position on a floor surface 30 and the flow guiding element 7 is illustrated in the extracted position.
  • Fig. 8b illustrates the second cross section of Fig. 8a in which the flow guiding element 7 has been moved to the retracted position.
  • each flow guiding element 7 is linearly movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3 between the retracted and extracted positions.
  • each flow guiding element 7 is linearly movably arranged in directions d3, d4 being substantially perpendicular to a floor surface 30 when the nozzle 1 is positioned in an upright use position on the floor surface 30.
  • each flow guiding element 7 is configured to be moved towards the retracted position when a force is applied onto the flow guiding element 7 in a direction d4 into the nozzle base 3. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7 is configured to be moved towards the extracted position at least in part by gravity. According to further embodiments, one or more flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 may be configured to be moved towards the extracted position at least in part by gravity. Furthermore, one or more flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 may be biased towards the extracted position by at least one spring element 8.
  • the nozzle 1 comprises an elongated connection structure 38 which connects a number of flow guiding elements 7 such that the number of flow guiding elements 7 can move in unison.
  • the nozzle 1 comprises a spring element 8, in the form of a coil spring, which is configured to bias the number of flow guiding elements 7 in the direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3.
  • the nozzle 1 may comprise one spring element per flow guiding element 7 wherein each spring element is configured to bias one flow guiding element 7 in the direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3.
  • the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle 1 comprises the number of a flow guiding elements 7 each having a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a direction d1, d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7, a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port 5 while being able to guide particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner during use of the nozzle 1. This is because the tapering cross section of the flow guiding elements 7 forms funnel shaped openings between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7.
  • each flow guiding element 7 is movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3, a nozzle 1 is provided circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa.
  • a nozzle 1 is provided circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa.
  • an abutting contact between the flow guiding elements 7 and a protruding part of a surface area being cleaned, such as an edge of a carpet, or the like, or the abutting contact between the flow guiding elements 7 and an object or particle can displace the flow guiding elements 7 in the direction d4 into the nozzle base 3.
  • the flow guiding elements 7 can be displaced in the direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3 by gravity and/or by the biasing force of one or more spring elements 8.
  • the nozzle 1 can allow particles and objects to reach the suction port 5 in an efficient manner.
  • each flow guiding element 7 is movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3, advantageous flow characteristics and an advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements 7 and the suction port 5 also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like. This is because the abutting contact between portions of the softer type of surface and the flow guiding elements 7 can move the flow guiding elements 7 to positions between the retracted and extracted positions.
  • the nozzle 1 comprises the number of a flow guiding elements 7 each having the tapered cross section and being movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3, a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided having conditions for low frictional forces between the nozzle 1 and a surface to be cleaned, also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like.
  • a nozzle 1 is provided capable of guiding particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner also when cleaning softer types of surfaces.
  • each flow guiding element 7 is non-air permeable.
  • each flow guiding element 7 may be formed by a solid or composite material arranged to not allow air to pass through the flow guiding element 7.
  • Each flow guiding element 7 may comprises an elastic material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, or the like, preferably a portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7 being configured to face the floor surface 30 during operation of the nozzle 1.
  • each flow guiding elements 7 may comprise a polymeric material such as plastics.
  • the narrow section 17 and the front surface 23 thereof which is angled relative to the first surface 41 and faces the floor surface 30 at an angle a3, the number of flow guiding elements 7 can be moved in the direction d4 towards the respective retracted position in a more efficient manner when a flow guiding element 7 is abutting against an elevated part of a surface, such as an edge of a carpet, or the like, or is abutting against an object or particle.
  • the narrow section 17, and the front surface 23 thereof may comprise an elastic material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, or the like.
  • the width w2 of the triangular part of each flow guiding element 7, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1, may be within the range of 5 - 35 millimetres, or may be within the range of 8 - 16 millimetres.
  • the width w3 of the elongated portion 19 of each flow guiding element 7, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1, is approximately 3.7 millimetres.
  • the width w3 of the elongated portion 19 of each flow guiding element 7, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1 may be within the range of 1 - 14 millimetres, or may be within the range of 2 - 7 millimetres.
  • the nozzle base 3 comprises a number of indentations 25 each arranged between a flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 and the suction port 5.
  • Each indentation 25 of the number of indentations 25 is arranged such that a delimiting surface 25’ thereof is substantially flush with a portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7 being configured to face the floor surface 30 during operation of the nozzle 1 when the flow guiding element 7 is in the retracted position.
  • a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 having conditions for a design in which a portion 16 of each of the flow guiding elements 7, which is configured to face the floor surface 30 during use of the nozzle 1, can have a different angle than a surface 40 of the nozzle base 3 adjacent to the flow guiding element 7 while obtaining a substantially levelled interface between the portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7 and a delimiting surface 25’ of an indentation 5 when the flow guiding element 7 is in the retracted position.
  • the nozzle base 3 of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 can be moved close to a softer type of surface, such as a surface of a carpet, furniture, or the like.
  • advantageous flow characteristics can be obtained towards the suction port 5 also when the flow guiding elements 7 are in the respective retracted position.
  • the surface 40 of the nozzle base 3 adjacent to the flow guiding element 7 is indicated in Fig. 4 and Fig. 7.
  • the nozzle 1 comprises a height adjustment mechanism 29 for changing a relative distance between floor engaging portions of the wheels 4 and the nozzle base 3.
  • the height adjustment mechanism 29 is operably connected to a height adjustment knob 29’.
  • the height adjustment knob 29’ is seen and indicated in Fig. 1 , Fig. 2, and Fig. 7. Due to the height adjustment mechanism 29, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided allowing a user to select whether the number of wheels 4 should be in an extracted or retracted position and thereby also allowing the user to select a distance between the nozzle base 3 and a surface 30 to be cleaned.
  • the flow guiding elements 7 are configured to assume a respective retracted position relative to the nozzle base 3 when the relative distance between the floor engaging portions of the wheels 4 and the nozzle base 3 is reduced, i.e. , when the height adjustment mechanism 29 is controlled such that the number of wheels 4 are in a respective retracted position relative to the nozzle base 3.
  • a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided allowing a user to select whether the number of flow guiding elements 7 should be in the respective retracted position or not during use of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1.
  • Fig. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an underside of a vacuum cleaner nozzle T according to some further embodiments of the present disclosure.
  • the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 may be a vacuum cleaner nozzle T according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 10.
  • the vacuum cleaner 20 illustrated in Fig. 1 may comprise a vacuum cleaner nozzle T according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 10.
  • the nozzle T comprises a connection section 36.
  • the connection section 36 is tubular.
  • a portion of the stick 34 of the vacuum cleaner 20 protrudes into the connection section 36 of the nozzle T.
  • the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle T can be clearly seen.
  • the nozzle T comprises four wheels 4 arranged at the nozzle base 3.
  • the nozzle T may comprise another number of wheels 4 arranged at the nozzle base 3.
  • the nozzle T comprises a pair of support wheels 54.
  • the pair of support wheels 54 is arranged between the nozzle base 3 and the connection section 36 of the nozzle T. As indicated in Fig. 2, the pair of support wheels 54 is configured to abut against a surface 30 during operation of the nozzle T.
  • each support wheel 54 of the pair of support wheels 54 has a rolling direction being parallel to the forward and the reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle T.
  • the suction port 5 is elongated along a direction of elongation de5.
  • the direction of elongation de5 of the suction port 5 is perpendicular to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T.
  • each flow guiding element 7’ of the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7’ has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a respective first direction d1 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7’.
  • each flow guiding element 7’ of the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a respective second direction d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7’.
  • the suction port 5 and the number of flow guiding elements 7’ are arranged such that the direction d1, d2 from the suction port 5 towards the respective flow guiding elements 7’ are parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle T.
  • each flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ is movably arranged relative to the nozzle base 3 such that the flow guiding element 7’ can assume a position between the retracted and extracted positions.
  • the nozzle base 3 comprises a number of apertures 9, wherein each flow guiding element 7’ is movably arranged at least partially inside an aperture 9 of the number of apertures 9 between the retracted and extracted positions.
  • Fig. 14 illustrates a first cross section of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle T illustrated in Fig. 10.
  • the first cross section of Fig. 14 is made in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T.
  • the first cross section is made through a portion of the nozzle base 3 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’ as seen in a direction perpendicular to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T.
  • the nozzle T is illustrated as positioned in an upright use position on a floor surface 30 and the flow guiding elements 7’ are illustrated in a respective extracted position. 1
  • Fig. 15a illustrates a second cross section of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle T illustrated in Fig. 10.
  • the second cross section of Fig. 15a is made in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T.
  • the second cross section is made through a portion of the nozzle base 3 at which a flow guiding element 7’ is arranged.
  • the second cross section of Fig. 15a extends through a flow guiding element 7’ in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T.
  • the nozzle T is illustrated as positioned in an upright use position on a floor surface 30 and the flow guiding element 7’ is illustrated in the extracted position.
  • one or more flow guiding elements 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ may be biased towards the extracted position by at least one spring element 8. That is, in more detail, a spring element 8’ is schematically illustrated in Fig. 15a and Fig. 15b.
  • Each flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ of the nozzle 1 ’ may comprise a spring element 8’ configured to apply a biasing force onto the flow guiding element 7’ in a direction towards the extracted position.
  • the nozzle T explained with reference to Fig. 1 , Fig. 2, and Fig. 10 - Fig. 15b may comprise one or more elongated connection structures which connects a number of flow guiding elements 7’ such that the number of flow guiding elements 7’ can move in unison.
  • a vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port 5 while being able guide particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner during use of the nozzle T. This is because the tapering cross section of the flow guiding elements 7’ forms funnel shaped openings between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’.
  • the flow guiding elements 7’ can be displaced in the direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3 by gravity and/or by the biasing force of one or more spring elements 8’. As a result, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided.
  • the flow guiding elements 7’ of the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ have identical but mirrored design as the flow guiding elements 7’ of the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7’.
  • the flow guiding elements 7’ of the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ may have substantially identical but mirrored design as the flow guiding elements 7’ of the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7’.
  • the first and second sets s1, s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ comprises the same number of flow guiding elements 7’.
  • the first and second sets s1, s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ may comprise substantially the same number of flow guiding elements 7’. Due to these features, a vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Moreover, a vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided having the same, or at least similar, operational characteristics when moved in the reverse moving direction rd over a surface as when moved in forward moving direction fd over the surface.
  • each flow guiding element 7’ is non-air permeable.
  • each flow guiding element 7’ may be formed by a solid or composite material arranged to not allow air to pass through the flow guiding element 7’.
  • Each flow guiding element 7’ may comprises an elastic material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, or the like, preferably a portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7’ being configured to face the floor surface 30 during operation of the nozzle T.
  • each flow guiding elements 7’ may comprise a polymeric material such as plastics.
  • each flow guiding element 7’ is non-air permeable according to the illustrated embodiments, a further advantageous flow characteristics can be provided towards the suction port 5 during use of the nozzle T. Moreover, a further advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements 7’ and the suction port 5 also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like.
  • a vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Furthermore, vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided having conditions for an improved ability to guide particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner.
  • Fig. 16 illustrates an enlarged view of a pair of flow guiding elements 7’ of the nozzle base 3 of a vacuum cleaner nozzle T explained with reference to Fig. 10 - Fig. 15b.
  • the flow guiding elements 7’ in Fig. 16 are illustrated as arranged in a respective aperture 9.
  • Fig. 16 is drawn to scale and the flow guiding elements 7’ are illustrated as seen in a direction straight towards the nozzle base.
  • a respective pivot axis Pa of the flow guiding elements 7’ is illustrated and the flow guiding elements 7’ are illustrated in a respective retracted position.
  • each flow guiding element 7’ comprises a wide section 11.
  • the wide section 11 of each flow guiding element 7’ faces the suction port 5.
  • the width w of the wide section 11 is greater than the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’.
  • the width w of the wide section 11 of a flow guiding element 7’, as well as the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’, is measured in a direction perpendicular to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T and parallel to a floor surface 30 against which the nozzle base 3 is configured to face when the nozzle T is positioned in an upright use position thereon.
  • width w of the wide section 11 of each flow guiding element 7’ is approximately 15.5 millimetres. According to further embodiments, the width w of the wide section 11 of each flow guiding element 7’ may be within the range of 6 - 40 millimetres, or may be within the range of 10 - 20 millimetres.
  • each flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ comprises a first surface 41 being substantially parallel to the floor surface 30 when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the extracted position and the nozzle 1 is positioned in the upright use position on the floor surface 30.
  • the first surface 41 is also indicated in Fig. 15a.
  • the combined width w2 of the triangular part and the regular quadrilateral part of each flow guiding element 7’, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the retracted position is approximately 11.8 millimetres.
  • the width w2 of the triangular part of each flow guiding element 7’, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the retracted position may be within the range of 5 - 35 millimetres, or may be within the range of 8 - 16 millimetres.
  • the nozzle T comprises a height adjustment mechanism 29 for changing a relative distance between floor engaging portions of the wheels 4 and the nozzle base 3.
  • the height adjustment mechanism 29 is operably connected to a height adjustment knob 29’.
  • the height adjustment knob 29’ is seen and indicated in Fig. 1 , Fig. 2, and Fig. 14. Due to the height adjustment mechanism 29, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided allowing a user to select whether the number of wheels 4 should be in an extracted or retracted position and thereby also allowing the user to select a distance between the nozzle base 3 and a surface 30 to be cleaned.
  • the flow guiding elements 7’ are configured to assume a respective retracted position relative to the nozzle base 3 when the relative distance between the floor engaging portions of the wheels 4 and the nozzle base 3 is reduced, i.e. , when the height adjustment mechanism 29 is controlled such that the number of wheels 4 are in a respective retracted position relative to the nozzle base 3.
  • a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided allowing a user to select whether the number of flow guiding elements 7’ should be in the respective retracted position or not during use of the vacuum cleaner nozzle T.
  • the nozzle base 3 may comprises a number of indentations each arranged between a flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ and the suction port 5.
  • Each such an indentation may be arranged such that a delimiting surface thereof is substantially flush with a portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7’ being configured to face the floor surface 30 during operation of the nozzle T when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the retracted position.
  • the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T may comprise one or more brush rolls.
  • the one or more brush rolls may each be powered to rotate by a motor, such as an electric motor or a pneumatic motor.
  • the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T may comprise one brush roll between the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ and the suction port 5.
  • the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T may comprise one brush roll between the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ and the suction port 5.
  • substantially parallel to may encompass that the angle between the objects referred to is less than 10 degrees, or is less than 7 degrees.
  • substantially perpendicular to may encompass that the angle between the objects referred to is within the range of 80 - 100 degrees or is within the range of 83 - 97 degrees.
  • substantially flush with may encompass that the distance between the objects referred to, measured in a direction parallel to the directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3, is less than 5 millimetres, or is less than 2.5 millimetres.
  • the feature that the first and second sets s1 , s2 of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ comprises substantially the same number of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ may encompass that the difference between the number of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ of one of the first and second sets s1, s2 of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ and the other of the first and second sets s1, s2 of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ is less than two.
  • the direction d4 into the nozzle base 3, as referred to herein, may also be referred to as a direction d4 towards the nozzle base 3.
  • the direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3, as referred to herein may also be referred to as a direction d3 away from the nozzle base 3.

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Abstract

A vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) is disclosed configured to be moved over a floor surface (30). The nozzle (1) comprises a nozzle base (3) configured to face the floor surface (30) during operation of the nozzle (1). The nozzle base (3) comprises a suction port (5) and a number of flow guiding elements (7) arranged adjacent to the suction port (5). Each flow guiding element (7) of the number of flow guiding elements (7) has a cross section tapering away from the suction port (5) as seen along a direction (d1, d2) from the suction port (5) towards the flow guiding element (7). Moreover, each flow guiding element (7) is movably arranged in directions (d3, d4) into and out from the nozzle base (3) between a retracted and anextracted position. The present disclosure further relates to a vacuum cleaner (20) comprising a vacuum cleaner nozzle (1).

Description

Vacuum Cleaner Nozzle and Vacuum Cleaner
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to a vacuum cleaner nozzle. The present disclosure further relates to a vacuum cleaner comprising a vacuum cleaner nozzle.
BACKGROUND
A vacuum cleaner, also known as a sweeper or hoover, is a device that uses an air pump, most often a centrifugal fan, to create a partial vacuum at a vacuum cleaner nozzle of the vacuum cleaner in order to suck up dust and dirt from surfaces, such as floors, carpets, beds, and the like. The dust and dirt are collected by a separator unit of the vacuum cleaner, such as a dust bag or a cyclone arrangement, for later disposal. Many types of vacuum cleaners exist, such as canister vacuum cleaners, drum vacuum cleaners, hand-held vacuum cleaners, stick-type vacuum cleaners, robotic vacuum cleaners, central vacuum cleaners, and the like.
Most vacuum cleaner nozzles comprise an arrangement at a nozzle base of the nozzle comprising a first section arranged in front of a suction port as seen relative to a forward moving direction of the nozzle and a second section arranged in front of a suction port as seen relative to a reverse moving direction of the nozzle. Such arrangements typically comprise a first section in the form of a first elongated brush assembly and a second section in the form of a second elongated brush assembly, wherein each elongated brush assembly typically comprise a number of brush pockets constituting open sections of the elongated brush assembly. Moreover, such types of arrangements can increase suction, i.e. , can increase the partial vacuum between the arrangement and the suction port, by restricting flow towards the suction port, especially when cleaning harder types of surfaces, such as floor surfaces.
However, when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets and the like, these types of arrangement can significantly increase frictional forces between the nozzle and the surface being cleaned which is usually burdensome for users. Moreover, such operation may damage softer types of surfaces, such as delicate carpets, furniture, or the like.
As a reason thereof, many vacuum cleaner nozzles comprise a mechanism for moving the sections of the above-mentioned arrangement between an extracted position, in which the sections, such as the first and second elongated brush assemblies, protrude out from the nozzle base, and a retracted position, in which the sections are moved to a respective retracted position into the nozzle base of the nozzle.
Such vacuum cleaner nozzles require a user to manually change the setting of the mechanism when moving from harder types of surfaces to softer types of surfaces, and vice versa. A typical household comprise several harder and softer types of surfaces which require users to frequently perform manual changes of the setting of the mechanism during a cleaning session, which is burdensome for users.
Moreover, when the sections of the above-mentioned arrangement is in the respective extracted position, the sections can prevent objects and particles from reaching the suction port.
Moreover, generally, on today’s consumer market, it is an advantage if products, such as vacuum cleaners and their associated components, have conditions and/or characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Furthermore, generally, on today’s consumer market, it is an advantage if products, such as vacuum cleaners and their associated components, are simple and intuitive to use.
SUMMARY
It is an object of the present invention to overcome, or at least alleviate, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks.
According to a first aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a vacuum cleaner nozzle configured to be moved over a floor surface. The nozzle comprises a nozzle base configured to face the floor surface during operation of the nozzle. The nozzle base comprises a suction port and a number of flow guiding elements arranged adjacent to the suction port. Each flow guiding element of the number of flow guiding elements has a cross section tapering away from the suction port as seen along a direction from the suction port towards the flow guiding element, and wherein each flow guiding element is movably arranged in directions into and out from the nozzle base between a retracted and an extracted position.
Since the nozzle base of the nozzle comprises a number of a flow guiding elements each having a cross section tapering away from the suction port as seen along a direction from the suction port towards the flow guiding element, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port for guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner. This is because the tapering cross section of the flow guiding elements forms funnel shaped openings between two adjacent flow guiding elements of the number of flow guiding elements.
Moreover, since each flow guiding element is movably arranged in directions into and out from the nozzle base, a nozzle is provided circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa. As a result, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided.
Moreover, since each flow guiding element is movably arranged in directions into and out from the nozzle base, a nozzle is provided in which the flow guiding elements can allow particles and objects to reach the suction port by moving towards the respective retracted position when a flow guiding element reaches and abuts against a particle or object.
Furthermore, since each flow guiding element is movably arranged in directions into and out from the nozzle base, advantageous flow characteristics and an advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements and the suction port also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like. This is because the abutting contact between portions of the softer type of surface and the flow guiding elements can move the flow guiding elements to positions between the retracted and extracted positions.
In addition, since the nozzle comprises the number of a flow guiding elements each having the tapered cross section and being movably arranged in directions into and out from the nozzle base, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for low frictional forces between the nozzle and a surface to be cleaned, also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like.
Moreover, due to the number of flow guiding elements, a nozzle is provided capable of guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner and allowing particles and objects to reach the suction port also when cleaning softer types of surfaces.
Accordingly, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved. Optionally, each flow guiding element is non-air permeable. Thereby, a further advantageous flow characteristics can be provided towards the suction port during use of the nozzle. Moreover, a further advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements and the suction port also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like. In addition, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Furthermore, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for an improved ability to guide particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner.
Optionally, each flow guiding element comprises an elastic material, preferably a portion of the flow guiding element being configured to face the floor surface during operation of the nozzle. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having a lower probability of damaging delicate surfaces during use. Moreover, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for generating less noise during use.
Optionally, each flow guiding element is configured to be moved towards the retracted position when a force is applied onto the flow guiding element in a direction into the nozzle base. Thereby, further advantageous flow characteristics and a further advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements and the suction port also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like. This is because the abutting contact between portions of the surface being cleaned and the flow guiding elements can move the flow guiding elements to positions between the retracted and extracted positions. Moreover, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided further circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa. Furthermore, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for an improved ability to guide particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner and allowing particles and objects to reach the suction port r also when cleaning softer types of surfaces.
Optionally, one or more flow guiding elements of the number of flow guiding elements is/are configured to be moved towards the extracted position at least in part by gravity. Thereby, vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided further circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa. In addition, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner.
Optionally, one or more flow guiding elements of the number of flow guiding elements is/are biased towards the extracted position by at least one spring element. Thereby, vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided further circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa. Moreover, it can be ensured that each flow guiding element can be moved to its extracted position also when the nozzle is held in a nonhorizontal orientation, such as when cleaning vertical surfaces, and the like. In addition, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner.
Optionally, the nozzle base comprises a first base portion comprising a first set of flow guiding elements arranged in front of the suction port as seen relative to a forward moving direction of the nozzle. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner when the nozzle is moved in the forward direction over a surface while having conditions for circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface to a softer type of surface, and vice versa.
Optionally, the nozzle base comprises a second base portion comprising a second set of flow guiding elements arranged in front of the suction port as seen relative to a reverse moving direction of the nozzle. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner when the nozzle is moved in the reverse direction over a surface while having conditions for circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface to a softer type of surface, and vice versa.
Optionally, the flow guiding elements of the second set of flow guiding elements have identical but mirrored design as the flow guiding elements of the first set of flow guiding elements. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Moreover, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having the same, or at least similar, operational characteristics when moved in the reverse moving direction over a surface as when moved in forward moving direction over the surface. Optionally, the first and second sets of flow guiding elements comprises the same number of flow guiding elements. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Moreover, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having the same, or at least similar, operational characteristics when moved in the reverse moving direction over a surface as when moved in forward moving direction over the surface.
Optionally, each flow guiding element comprises a wide section facing the suction port, and wherein the width of the wide section is greater than the distance between two adjacent flow guiding elements of the number of flow guiding elements. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided capable of guiding particles and objects towards the suction port of the nozzle in an efficient manner, while having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port during use of the nozzle.
Optionally, each flow guiding element comprises a first and a second side surface arranged such that the cross section of the flow guiding element taper away from the suction port as seen along the direction from the suction port towards the flow guiding element, and wherein the angle between each of the first and second side surfaces and one of a forward and a reverse moving direction of the nozzle is within the range of 10 - 65 degrees, or is within the range of 20 - 40 degrees. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port during use of the nozzle and being capable of guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner.
Optionally, each flow guiding element comprises a wide section facing the suction port and a narrow section facing away from the suction port, and wherein the narrow section comprises an elongated portion having a direction of elongation being substantially parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction of the nozzle. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided in which the number of flow guiding elements can be moved in a direction towards the respective retracted position in a more efficient manner when a flow guiding element is abutting against an elevated part of a surface, such as an edge of a carpet, or the like, or is abutting against an object or particle.
Optionally, each flow guiding element comprises a wide section facing the suction port and a narrow section facing away from the suction port, and wherein each flow guiding element comprises a first surface being substantially parallel to the floor surface, at least when the guiding element is in one of the retracted and extracted positions, and wherein the narrow section comprises a front surface being angled relative to the first surface. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided in which the number of flow guiding elements can be moved in a direction towards the respective retracted position in a more efficient manner when a flow guiding element is abutting against an elevated part of a surface, such as an edge of a carpet, or the like, or is abutting against an object or particle.
Optionally, the nozzle base comprises a number of apertures, and wherein each flow guiding element is arranged at least partially inside an aperture of the number of apertures. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner while having conditions for obtaining the above-mentioned advantages.
Optionally, the nozzle base comprises a number of indentations each arranged between a flow guiding element of the number of flow guiding elements and the suction port. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for a design in which a portion of each of the flow guiding elements which is configured to face the floor surface during use of the nozzle can have a different angle than a surface of the nozzle base adjacent to the flow guiding element while obtaining a substantially levelled interface between the portion of the flow guiding element and a delimiting surface of an indentation when the flow guiding element is in the retracted position.
Optionally, each indentation of the number of indentations is arranged such that a delimiting surface thereof is substantially flush with a portion of the flow guiding element being configured to face the floor surface during operation of the nozzle when the flow guiding element is in the retracted position. Thereby, it can be ensured that the nozzle base of the vacuum cleaner nozzle can be moved close to a softer type of surface, such as a surface of a carpet, furniture, or the like, while obtaining advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port also when the flow guiding element is in the retracted position.
Optionally, the suction port and the number of flow guiding elements are arranged such that the direction from the suction port towards the respective flow guiding elements are parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction of the nozzle. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner when the nozzle is moved over a surface while having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics and an advantageous level of partial vacuum between the number of flow guiding elements and the suction port also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like. Optionally, the nozzle comprises a number of wheels each having a rolling direction being parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction of the nozzle. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for low frictional forces between the nozzle and a surface to be cleaned. Moreover, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions for ensuring that the vacuum cleaner nozzle is moved along predetermined directions during operation thereof.
Optionally, the nozzle comprises a height adjustment mechanism for changing a relative distance between floor engaging portions of the wheels and the nozzle base. Thereby, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided allowing a user to select whether the number of wheels should be in an extracted or retracted position and thereby also allowing the user to select a distance between the nozzle base and a surface to be cleaned.
Optionally, the flow guiding elements are configured to assume a respective retracted position relative to the nozzle base when the relative distance between the floor engaging portions of the wheels and the nozzle base is reduced. Thereby, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided allowing a user to select whether the number of flow guiding elements should be in the respective retracted position or not during use of the vacuum cleaner nozzle.
Optionally, each flow guiding element is linearly movably arranged in directions into and out from the nozzle base between the retracted and extracted positions. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner while having conditions for obtaining the above-mentioned advantages.
Optionally, each flow guiding element is linearly movably arranged in directions being substantially perpendicular to a floor surface when the nozzle is positioned in an upright use position on the floor surface. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a costefficient manner while having conditions for guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner during use of the vacuum cleaner nozzle.
Optionally, each flow guiding element is pivotally arranged between the retracted and the extracted positions. Thereby, a vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner while having conditions for guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner during use of the vacuum cleaner nozzle.
Optionally, each flow guiding element comprises a first and a second surface each facing in a direction towards the floor surface during operation of the nozzle, wherein the first surface is substantially parallel to the floor surface when the flow guiding element is in the extracted position, and wherein the second surface is substantially parallel to the floor surface when the flow guiding element is in the retracted position. Thereby, advantageous flow characteristics and an advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements and the suction port when the flow guiding element is in the extracted position as well as when the flow guiding element is in the retracted position.
According to a second aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a vacuum cleaner comprising a vacuum cleaner nozzle according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
Since the vacuum cleaner comprises a vacuum cleaner nozzle according to some embodiments, a vacuum cleaner is provided comprising a vacuum cleaner nozzle having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port during use of the nozzle while being able to guide particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner and allowing particles and objects to reach the suction port t during use of the nozzle.
Moreover, a vacuum cleaner is provided circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa. As a result, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner is provided.
Furthermore, a vacuum cleaner is provided comprising a vacuum cleaner nozzle with conditions for advantageous flow characteristics and an advantageous level of partial vacuum between the number of flow guiding elements and the suction port also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like. This is because the abutting contact between portions of the softer type of surface and the flow guiding elements can move the flow guiding elements to positions between the retracted and extracted positions. In addition, a vacuum cleaner is provided having conditions for low frictional forces between the nozzle and a surface to be cleaned, also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like.
Moreover, vacuum cleaner is provided comprising a vacuum cleaner nozzle capable of guiding particles and objects towards the suction port in an efficient manner also when cleaning softer types of surfaces.
Accordingly, a vacuum cleaner is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.
Further features of, and advantages with, the present invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Various aspects of the invention, including its particular features and advantages, will be readily understood from the example embodiments discussed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vacuum cleaner according to some embodiments,
Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of a vacuum cleaner nozzle of the vacuum cleaner illustrated in
Fig. 1 ,
Fig. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an underside of a vacuum cleaner nozzle according to some embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 4 illustrates a view straight towards a nozzle base of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in Fig. 3,
Fig. 5 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in Fig. 3,
Fig. 6 illustrates the enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base of Fig. 5 in which flow guiding elements of a number of flow guiding elements have been moved to a respective retracted position,
Fig. 7 illustrates a first cross section of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in
Fig. 3,
Fig. 8a illustrates a second cross of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in Fig.
3, Fig. 8b illustrates the second cross section of Fig. 8a in which a flow guiding element has been moved to the retracted position,
Fig. 9 illustrates an enlarged view of a pair of flow guiding elements of the nozzle base of a vacuum cleaner nozzle explained with reference to Fig. 3 - Fig. 8b,
Fig. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an underside of a vacuum cleaner nozzle according to some embodiments of the present disclosure,
Fig. 11 illustrates a view straight towards a nozzle base of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in Fig. 10,
Fig. 12 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in Fig. 10,
Fig. 13 illustrates the enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base of Fig. 12 in which flow guiding elements of a number of flow guiding elements have been moved to a respective retracted position,
Fig. 14 illustrates a first cross section of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in Fig. 10,
Fig. 15a illustrates a second cross of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle illustrated in
Fig. 10,
Fig. 15b illustrates the second cross section of Fig. 15a in which a flow guiding element has been moved to the retracted position, and
Fig. 16 illustrates an enlarged view of a pair of flow guiding elements of the nozzle base of a vacuum cleaner nozzle explained with reference to Fig. 10 - Fig. 15b,
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Aspects of the present invention will now be described more fully. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Well-known functions or constructions will not necessarily be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity.
Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vacuum cleaner 20 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. According to the illustrated embodiments, the vacuum cleaner 20 is a canister vacuum cleaner. However, according to further embodiments, the vacuum cleaner 20 as referred to herein may be another type of vacuum cleaner, such as a drum vacuum cleaner, a hand-held vacuum cleaner, a stick-type vacuum cleaner, a robotic vacuum cleaner, a central vacuum cleaner, or the like.
The vacuum cleaner 20 comprises a vacuum cleaner body 22 and an air pump assembly, such as a centrifugal fan and a motor, arranged inside the vacuum cleaner body 22, wherein the air pump assembly is configured to generate an airflow from an air inlet 24 of the vacuum cleaner 20 to an air outlet 26 of the vacuum cleaner 20.
In Fig. 1 , a vacuum cleaner hose 28 is schematically illustrated. The vacuum cleaner hose 28 is connected to the air inlet 24 of the vacuum cleaner 20. The vacuum cleaner hose 28 comprises a stick 34 attached to an end thereof.
The vacuum cleaner 20 further comprises a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T. For reasons of brevity and clarity, the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1, T is in some places herein referred to as “the nozzle 1 , T”. In Fig. 1 , the nozzle 1 , T is illustrated as being attached to the stick 34 of the vacuum cleaner hose 28 of the vacuum cleaner 20.
Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T illustrated in Fig. 1. In Fig. 2, the nozzle 1 , T is illustrated as positioned in an upright use position on a floor surface 30. The nozzle 1 , T comprises a nozzle base 3. The nozzle base 3 is configured to face a floor surface 30 when the nozzle 1 , T is positioned in the upright use position on the floor surface 30. In other words, the nozzle base 3 configured to face the floor surface 30 during operation of the nozzle 1 , T.
The nozzle 1 , T is configured to be moved along a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1 , T during operation. The reverse moving direction rd is opposite to, and thus also parallel to, the forward moving direction fd. According to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle 1 , T comprises a number of wheels 4 arranged at the nozzle base 3, wherein the wheels 4 are configured to roll against a surface 30 during operation of the nozzle 1 , T. According to the illustrated embodiments, each wheel 4 of the number of wheels 4 has a rolling direction being parallel to the forward and the reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1 , T.
Fig. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an underside of a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The vacuum cleaner nozzle 1, T illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 may be a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 3. In other words, the vacuum cleaner 20 illustrated in Fig. 1 may comprise a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 3.
As is indicated in Fig. 1 - Fig. 3, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle 1 comprises a connection section 36. According to the illustrated embodiments, the connection section 36 is tubular. In Fig. 1 , a portion of the stick 34 of the vacuum cleaner 20 protrudes into the connection section 36 of the nozzle 1.
In Fig. 3, the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle 1 can be more clearly seen. According to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle 1 comprises four wheels 4 arranged at the nozzle base 3. However, according to further embodiments, the nozzle 1 may comprise another number of wheels 4 arranged at the nozzle base 3.
As is best seen in Fig. 3, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle 1 comprises a pair of support wheels 54. The pair of support wheels 54 is arranged between the nozzle base 3 and the connection section 36 of the nozzle 1. As indicated in Fig. 2, the pair of support wheels 54 is configured to abut against a surface 30 during operation of the nozzle 1. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, each support wheel 54 of the pair of support wheels 54 has a rolling direction being parallel to the forward and the reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1.
Moreover, as can be seen in Fig. 3, the nozzle base 3 comprises a suction port 5. The suction port 5 is fluidly connected to an inside of the connection section 36 of the nozzle 1. In this manner, when the connection section 36 of the nozzle 1 is connected to an air inlet 24 of a vacuum cleaner 20, as illustrated in Fig. 1 , the operation of the air pump assembly of the vacuum cleaner 20 causes suction and a partial vacuum at the suction port 5 of the nozzle 1.
As can be seen in Fig. 3, according to the illustrated embodiments, the suction port 5 is elongated along a direction of elongation de5. According to the illustrated embodiments, the direction of elongation de5 of the suction port 5 is perpendicular to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1.
Moreover, as is seen in Fig. 3, the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle 1 comprises a number of flow guiding elements 7 arranged adjacent to the suction port 5. For reasons of brevity and clarity, only some of the flow guiding elements 7 has been provided with the reference sign “7” in Fig. 3.
Fig. 4 illustrates a view straight towards the nozzle base 3 of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 illustrated in Fig. 3. Like above, for reasons of brevity and clarity, only some of the flow guiding elements 7 has been provided with the reference sign “7” in Fig. 4. As can be seen in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, each flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a direction d1 , d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7.
Moreover, as is indicated in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle base 3 comprises a first base portion 31 comprising a first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7, wherein the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7 is arranged in front of the suction port 5 as seen relative to a forward moving direction fd of the nozzle 1. Moreover, the nozzle base 3 comprises a second base portion 32 comprising a second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7, wherein the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7 is arranged in front of the suction port 5 as seen relative to a reverse moving direction rd of the nozzle 1.
Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 - Fig. 4, if not indicated otherwise. In more detail, according to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7 of the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7 has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a respective first direction d1 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7. Likewise, each flow guiding element 7 of the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7 has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a respective second direction d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7.
According to the illustrated embodiments, the respective first directions d1 are each parallel to, and points in the same direction as, the forward moving direction fd of the nozzle 1. Likewise, according to the illustrated embodiments, the respective second directions d2 are each parallel to, and points in the same direction as, the reverse moving direction rd of the nozzle 1.
In other words, according to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a direction d1, d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7, wherein the direction d1 , d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7 is parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, the suction port 5 and the number of flow guiding elements 7 are arranged such that the direction d1 , d2 from the suction port 5 towards the respective flow guiding elements 7 are parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1.
In Fig. 2, a direction d4 into the nozzle base 3 and a direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3 is indicated. According to embodiments herein, each flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 is movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3 between a retracted and an extracted position. In Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, each flow guiding element 7 is illustrated in the extracted position.
Fig. 5 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle 1 illustrated in Fig. 3. In Fig. 5, the flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 are illustrated in a respective extracted position. As clearly seen in Fig. 5, as well as in Fig. 3, the flow guiding elements 7 protrude out from the nozzle base 3 when in the flow guiding elements 7 are in the respective extracted position.
Fig. 6 illustrates the enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base 3 of Fig. 5 in which the flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 have been moved to a respective retracted position. As clearly seen in Fig. 6, according to the illustrated embodiments, the retracted position constitutes a position in which a flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 does not protrude out from the nozzle base 3.
The retracted position may constitute a position in which a flow guiding element 7 is moved to a position in which a portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7, being arranged to face a floor surface during operation of the nozzle 1, is moved to a position inside the nozzle base 3. Moreover, the retracted position may constitute a position in which a flow guiding element 7 is moved to a position in which the portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7, which is arranged to face a floor surface during operation of the nozzle 1, is moved to a position in which the portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7 is at least substantially flush with surfaces of the nozzle base 3 adjacent to the flow guiding element 7.
The wording retracted position, as used herein, is intended to encompass a fully retracted position and the wording extracted position is intended to encompass a fully extracted position. However, as is explained in the following, each flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 is movably arranged relative to the nozzle base 3 such that the flow guiding element 7 can assume a position between the retracted and extracted positions.
As seen in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle base 3 comprises a number of apertures 9, wherein each flow guiding element 7 is movably arranged at least partially inside an aperture 9 of the number of apertures 9 between the retracted and extracted positions. Fig. 7 illustrates a first cross section of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 illustrated in Fig. 3. The first cross section of Fig. 7 is made in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1. Moreover, the first cross section is made through a portion of the nozzle base 3 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7 as seen in a direction perpendicular to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1. In Fig. 7, the nozzle 1 is illustrated as positioned in an upright use position on a floor surface 30 and the flow guiding elements 7 are illustrated in a respective extracted position.
Fig. 8a illustrates a second cross of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 illustrated in Fig. 3. Like the first cross section in Fig. 7, the second cross section of Fig. 8a is made in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1. However, the second cross section is made through a portion of the nozzle base 3 at which a flow guiding element 7 is arranged. In other words, the second cross section of Fig. 8a extends through a flow guiding element 7 in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1. Moreover, in Fig. 8a, the nozzle 1 is illustrated as positioned in an upright use position on a floor surface 30 and the flow guiding element 7 is illustrated in the extracted position.
Fig. 8b illustrates the second cross section of Fig. 8a in which the flow guiding element 7 has been moved to the retracted position. According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 3 - Fig. 8b, each flow guiding element 7 is linearly movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3 between the retracted and extracted positions. Moreover, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 3 - Fig. 8b, each flow guiding element 7 is linearly movably arranged in directions d3, d4 being substantially perpendicular to a floor surface 30 when the nozzle 1 is positioned in an upright use position on the floor surface 30.
Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 - Fig. 8b, if not indicated otherwise. According to embodiment herein, each flow guiding element 7 is configured to be moved towards the retracted position when a force is applied onto the flow guiding element 7 in a direction d4 into the nozzle base 3. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7 is configured to be moved towards the extracted position at least in part by gravity. According to further embodiments, one or more flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 may be configured to be moved towards the extracted position at least in part by gravity. Furthermore, one or more flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 may be biased towards the extracted position by at least one spring element 8. In more detail, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle 1 comprises an elongated connection structure 38 which connects a number of flow guiding elements 7 such that the number of flow guiding elements 7 can move in unison. Moreover, the nozzle 1 comprises a spring element 8, in the form of a coil spring, which is configured to bias the number of flow guiding elements 7 in the direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3. According to further embodiments, the nozzle 1 may comprise one spring element per flow guiding element 7 wherein each spring element is configured to bias one flow guiding element 7 in the direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3.
Since the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle 1 comprises the number of a flow guiding elements 7 each having a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a direction d1, d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7, a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port 5 while being able to guide particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner during use of the nozzle 1. This is because the tapering cross section of the flow guiding elements 7 forms funnel shaped openings between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7.
Moreover, since each flow guiding element 7 is movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3, a nozzle 1 is provided circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa. This is because an abutting contact between the flow guiding elements 7 and a protruding part of a surface area being cleaned, such as an edge of a carpet, or the like, or the abutting contact between the flow guiding elements 7 and an object or particle, can displace the flow guiding elements 7 in the direction d4 into the nozzle base 3. When the abutting contact is released, and/or when the abutting force is reduced, the flow guiding elements 7 can be displaced in the direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3 by gravity and/or by the biasing force of one or more spring elements 8. As a result, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided. In addition, the nozzle 1 can allow particles and objects to reach the suction port 5 in an efficient manner.
Furthermore, since each flow guiding element 7 is movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3, advantageous flow characteristics and an advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements 7 and the suction port 5 also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like. This is because the abutting contact between portions of the softer type of surface and the flow guiding elements 7 can move the flow guiding elements 7 to positions between the retracted and extracted positions.
In addition, since the nozzle 1 comprises the number of a flow guiding elements 7 each having the tapered cross section and being movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3, a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided having conditions for low frictional forces between the nozzle 1 and a surface to be cleaned, also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like.
Moreover, due to the number of flow guiding elements 7, a nozzle 1 is provided capable of guiding particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner also when cleaning softer types of surfaces.
As is best seen in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, according to the illustrated embodiments, the flow guiding elements 7 of the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7 have identical but mirrored design as the flow guiding elements 7 of the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7. According to further embodiments, the flow guiding elements 7 of the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7 may have substantially identical but mirrored design as the flow guiding elements 7 of the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7.
Moreover, as is best seen in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, according to the illustrated embodiments, the first and second sets s1 , s2 of flow guiding elements 7 comprises the same number of flow guiding elements 7. According to further embodiments, the first and second sets s1 , s2 of flow guiding elements 7 may comprise substantially the same number of flow guiding elements 7. Due to these features, a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Moreover, a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided having the same, or at least similar, operational characteristics when moved in the reverse moving direction rd over a surface as when moved in forward moving direction fd over the surface.
Furthermore, as is best seen in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, according to the illustrated embodiments, each of the first and second sets s1 , s2 of flow guiding elements 7 comprises ten flow guiding elements 7. In other words, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle 1 comprises twenty flow guiding elements 7 in total. According to further embodiments, the number of flow guiding elements 7 of each of the first and second sets s1 , s2 of flow guiding elements 7 may be an integer within the range of 4 - 26, or an integer within the range of 7 - 15. Moreover, according to further embodiments, the total number of flow guiding elements 7 of the nozzle base 3 may be an integer within the range of 4 - 52, or an integer within the range of 14 - 30.
According to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7 is non-air permeable. According to these embodiments, each flow guiding element 7 may be formed by a solid or composite material arranged to not allow air to pass through the flow guiding element 7. Each flow guiding element 7 may comprises an elastic material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, or the like, preferably a portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7 being configured to face the floor surface 30 during operation of the nozzle 1. As an alternative, or in addition, each flow guiding elements 7 may comprise a polymeric material such as plastics.
Since each flow guiding element 7 is non-air permeable according to the illustrated embodiments, a further advantageous flow characteristics can be provided towards the suction port 5 during use of the nozzle 1. Moreover, a further advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements 7 and the suction port 5 also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like. In addition, a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Furthermore, vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided having conditions for an improved ability to guide particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner.
Fig. 9 illustrates an enlarged view of a pair of flow guiding elements 7 of the nozzle base 3 of a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 explained with reference to Fig. 3 - Fig. 8b. The flow guiding element 7 to the left in Fig. 9 is illustrated as arranged in an aperture 9 and surfaces 25’ adjacent to the flow guiding element 7 are illustrated, whereas the aperture and surfaces adjacent to the flow guiding element 7 to the right in Fig. 9 have been omitted for reasons of brevity and clarity. Fig. 9 is drawn to scale and the flow guiding elements 7 are illustrated as seen in a direction straight towards the nozzle base.
Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 - Fig. 9, if not indicated otherwise. Each flow guiding element 7 comprises a wide section 11. The wide section 11 of each flow guiding element 7 faces the suction port 5. As is indicated in Fig. 9, the width w of the wide section 11 is greater than the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7. Thereby, a nozzle 1 is provided capable of guiding particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner of the nozzle 1 and having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port 5 during use of the nozzle 1.
According to the illustrated embodiments, the width w of the wide section 11 is approximately 88% greater than the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7. According to further embodiments, the width w of the wide section 11 may be 5 - 150% greater, or 50% - 110% greater, than the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7.
The width w of the wide section 11 of a flow guiding element 7, as well as the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7, is measured in a direction perpendicular to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1 and parallel to a floor surface 30 against which the nozzle base 3 is configured to face when the nozzle 1 is positioned in an upright use position thereon.
According to the illustrated embodiments, width w of the wide section 11 of each flow guiding element 7 is approximately 15 millimetres. According to further embodiments, the width w of the wide section 11 of each flow guiding element 7 may be within the range of 6 - 40 millimetres, or may be within the range of 10 - 20 millimetres.
Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 is approximately 8 mm. According to further embodiments, the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 may be within the range of 2 - 24 millimetres, or may be within the range of 4 - 12 millimetres.
According to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 comprises a first and a second side surface 13, 15 arranged such that the cross section of the flow guiding element 7 taper away from the suction port 5 as seen along the direction d1, d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7. According to the illustrated embodiments, the angle a1, a2 between each of the first and second side surfaces 13, 15 and one of a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1 is approximately 29 degrees. According to further embodiments, the angle a1 , a2 between each of the first and second side surfaces 13, 15 and one of a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1 may be within the range of 10 - 65 degrees, or may be within the range of 20 - 40 degrees. According to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 comprises a narrow section 17 facing away from the suction port 5. The narrow section 17 comprises an elongated portion 19 having a direction of elongation de being substantially parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle 1. As is indicated in Fig. 8a and Fig. 8b, the flow guiding element 7 comprises a first surface 41 being substantially parallel to the floor surface 30 when the nozzle 1 is positioned in the upright use position on the floor surface 30. As can be seen when comparing Fig. 8a and Fig. 8b, according to these embodiments, the first surface 41 is substantially parallel to the floor surface 30 when the flow guiding element 7 is in the extracted position, as illustrated in Fig. 8a, as well as when the flow guiding element 7 is in the retracted position, as is illustrated in Fig. 8b.
The narrow section 17 of the flow guiding element 7 comprises a front surface 23 being angled relative to the first surface 41. In other words, the front surface 23 faces the floor surface 30 at an angle a3 whereas the first surface 41 faces straight towards the floor surface 30 when the nozzle 1 is positioned in the upright use position on the floor surface 30. The angle a3 is indicated in Fig. 8b. The angle a3 in Fig. 8b, is approximately 46 degrees, but may be within the range of 10 - 80 degrees, or may be within the range of 20 - 70 degrees. The angle a3 may be measured between a surface normal of the front surface 23 of the narrow section 17 and a floor surface 30 when the nozzle 1 is positioned in the upright use position onto the floor surface 30 as is illustrated in Fig. 8b. The front surface 23 of the narrow section 17 is also indicated in Fig. 5.
Due to the narrow section 17 and the front surface 23 thereof, which is angled relative to the first surface 41 and faces the floor surface 30 at an angle a3, the number of flow guiding elements 7 can be moved in the direction d4 towards the respective retracted position in a more efficient manner when a flow guiding element 7 is abutting against an elevated part of a surface, such as an edge of a carpet, or the like, or is abutting against an object or particle. According to some embodiments, the narrow section 17, and the front surface 23 thereof, may comprise an elastic material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, or the like.
According to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7 has a triangular shape as seen in a direction d4 towards the nozzle base 3 apart from the narrow section 17 of the flow guiding element 7 which can be said to form a section protruding out from a first corner of the triangular shape, wherein the first corner of the triangular shape points in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1. According to the illustrated embodiments, the width w2 of the triangular part of each flow guiding element 7, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1 , is approximately 12 millimetres. According to further embodiments, the width w2 of the triangular part of each flow guiding element 7, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1, may be within the range of 5 - 35 millimetres, or may be within the range of 8 - 16 millimetres.
Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, the width w3 of the elongated portion 19 of each flow guiding element 7, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1, is approximately 3.7 millimetres. According to further embodiments, the width w3 of the elongated portion 19 of each flow guiding element 7, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1 , may be within the range of 1 - 14 millimetres, or may be within the range of 2 - 7 millimetres.
As indicated in Fig. 4 - Fig. 6 and Fig. 9, the nozzle base 3 comprises a number of indentations 25 each arranged between a flow guiding element 7 of the number of flow guiding elements 7 and the suction port 5. Each indentation 25 of the number of indentations 25 is arranged such that a delimiting surface 25’ thereof is substantially flush with a portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7 being configured to face the floor surface 30 during operation of the nozzle 1 when the flow guiding element 7 is in the retracted position. As a result, a vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided having conditions for a design in which a portion 16 of each of the flow guiding elements 7, which is configured to face the floor surface 30 during use of the nozzle 1, can have a different angle than a surface 40 of the nozzle base 3 adjacent to the flow guiding element 7 while obtaining a substantially levelled interface between the portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7 and a delimiting surface 25’ of an indentation 5 when the flow guiding element 7 is in the retracted position. Thereby, it can be ensured that the nozzle base 3 of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 can be moved close to a softer type of surface, such as a surface of a carpet, furniture, or the like. Moreover, advantageous flow characteristics can be obtained towards the suction port 5 also when the flow guiding elements 7 are in the respective retracted position. The surface 40 of the nozzle base 3 adjacent to the flow guiding element 7 is indicated in Fig. 4 and Fig. 7.
As is indicated in Fig. 7, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle 1 comprises a height adjustment mechanism 29 for changing a relative distance between floor engaging portions of the wheels 4 and the nozzle base 3. The height adjustment mechanism 29 is operably connected to a height adjustment knob 29’. The height adjustment knob 29’ is seen and indicated in Fig. 1 , Fig. 2, and Fig. 7. Due to the height adjustment mechanism 29, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 is provided allowing a user to select whether the number of wheels 4 should be in an extracted or retracted position and thereby also allowing the user to select a distance between the nozzle base 3 and a surface 30 to be cleaned.
Furthermore, according to the illustrated embodiments, the flow guiding elements 7 are configured to assume a respective retracted position relative to the nozzle base 3 when the relative distance between the floor engaging portions of the wheels 4 and the nozzle base 3 is reduced, i.e. , when the height adjustment mechanism 29 is controlled such that the number of wheels 4 are in a respective retracted position relative to the nozzle base 3. Thereby, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided allowing a user to select whether the number of flow guiding elements 7 should be in the respective retracted position or not during use of the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1.
Fig. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an underside of a vacuum cleaner nozzle T according to some further embodiments of the present disclosure. The vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 may be a vacuum cleaner nozzle T according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 10. In other words, the vacuum cleaner 20 illustrated in Fig. 1 may comprise a vacuum cleaner nozzle T according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 10.
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As is indicated in Fig. 1 , Fig. 2, and Fig. 10, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle T comprises a connection section 36. According to the illustrated embodiments, the connection section 36 is tubular. In Fig. 1 , a portion of the stick 34 of the vacuum cleaner 20 protrudes into the connection section 36 of the nozzle T.
In Fig. 10, the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle T can be clearly seen. According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 10, the nozzle T comprises four wheels 4 arranged at the nozzle base 3. However, according to further embodiments, the nozzle T may comprise another number of wheels 4 arranged at the nozzle base 3.
As is best seen in Fig. 10, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle T comprises a pair of support wheels 54. The pair of support wheels 54 is arranged between the nozzle base 3 and the connection section 36 of the nozzle T. As indicated in Fig. 2, the pair of support wheels 54 is configured to abut against a surface 30 during operation of the nozzle T. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, each support wheel 54 of the pair of support wheels 54 has a rolling direction being parallel to the forward and the reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle T.
Moreover, as can be seen in Fig. 10, the nozzle base 3 comprises a suction port 5. The suction port 5 is fluidly connected to an inside of the connection section 36 of the nozzle T. In this manner, when the connection section 36 of the nozzle T is connected to an air inlet 24 of a vacuum cleaner 20, as illustrated in Fig. 1 , the operation of the air pump assembly of the vacuum cleaner 20 causes suction and a partial vacuum at the suction port 5 of the nozzle T.
As can be seen in Fig. 10, according to the illustrated embodiments, the suction port 5 is elongated along a direction of elongation de5. According to the illustrated embodiments, the direction of elongation de5 of the suction port 5 is perpendicular to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T.
Moreover, as is seen in Fig. 10, the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle T comprises a number of flow guiding elements 7’ arranged adjacent to the suction port 5. For reasons of brevity and clarity, only some of the flow guiding elements 7’ has been provided with the reference sign “7”’ in Fig. 10.
Fig. 11 illustrates a view straight towards the nozzle base 3 of the vacuum cleaner nozzle T illustrated in Fig. 10. Like above, for reasons of brevity and clarity, only some of the flow guiding elements 7’ has been provided with the reference sign “7” in Fig. 11. As can be seen in Fig. 10 and Fig. 11, each flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a direction d1 , d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7’.
Moreover, as is indicated in Fig. 10 and Fig. 11, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle base 3 comprises a first base portion 31 comprising a first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7’, wherein the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7’ is arranged in front of the suction port 5 as seen relative to a forward moving direction fd of the nozzle T. Moreover, the nozzle base 3 comprises a second base portion 32 comprising a second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7’, wherein the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ is arranged in front of the suction port 5 as seen relative to a reverse moving direction rd of the nozzle T. Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 , Fig. 2, Fig. 10, and Fig. 11 , if not indicated otherwise. In more detail, according to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7’ of the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7’ has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a respective first direction d1 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7’. Likewise, each flow guiding element 7’ of the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a respective second direction d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7’.
According to the illustrated embodiments, the respective first directions d1 are each parallel to, and points in the same direction as, the forward moving direction fd of the nozzle T. Likewise, according to the illustrated embodiments, the respective second directions d2 are each parallel to, and points in the same direction as, the reverse moving direction rd of the nozzle T.
In other words, according to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ has a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a direction d1 , d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7’, wherein the direction d1 , d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7’ is parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle T. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, the suction port 5 and the number of flow guiding elements 7’ are arranged such that the direction d1, d2 from the suction port 5 towards the respective flow guiding elements 7’ are parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle T.
In Fig. 2, a direction d4 into the nozzle base 3 and a direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3 is indicated. According to embodiments herein, each flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ is movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3 between a retracted and an extracted position. In Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 , each flow guiding element 7’ is illustrated in the extracted position.
Fig. 12 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle T illustrated in Fig. 10. In Fig. 12, the flow guiding elements 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ are illustrated in a respective extracted position. As clearly seen in Fig. 12, as well as in Fig. 10, the flow guiding elements 7’ protrude out from the nozzle base 3 when in the flow guiding elements 7’ are in the respective extracted position. Fig. 13 illustrates the enlarged perspective view of the nozzle base 3 of Fig. 12 in which the flow guiding elements 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ have been moved to a respective retracted position. As clearly seen in Fig. 13, according to the illustrated embodiments, the retracted position constitutes a position in which a flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ does not protrude out from the nozzle base 3.
The retracted position may constitute a position in which a flow guiding element 7’ is moved to a position in which a portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7’, being arranged to face a floor surface during operation of the nozzle T, is moved to a position inside the nozzle base 3. Moreover, the retracted position may constitute a position in which a flow guiding element 7’ is moved to a position in which the portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7’, which is arranged to face a floor surface during operation of the nozzle T, is moved to a position in which the portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7’ is at least substantially flush with surfaces of the nozzle base 3 adjacent to the flow guiding element 7’.
The wording retracted position, as used herein, is intended to encompass a fully retracted position and the wording extracted position is intended to encompass a fully extracted position. However, as is explained in the following, each flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ is movably arranged relative to the nozzle base 3 such that the flow guiding element 7’ can assume a position between the retracted and extracted positions.
As seen in Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle base 3 comprises a number of apertures 9, wherein each flow guiding element 7’ is movably arranged at least partially inside an aperture 9 of the number of apertures 9 between the retracted and extracted positions.
Fig. 14 illustrates a first cross section of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle T illustrated in Fig. 10. The first cross section of Fig. 14 is made in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T. Moreover, the first cross section is made through a portion of the nozzle base 3 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’ as seen in a direction perpendicular to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T. In Fig. 14, the nozzle T is illustrated as positioned in an upright use position on a floor surface 30 and the flow guiding elements 7’ are illustrated in a respective extracted position. 1
Fig. 15a illustrates a second cross section of a portion of the vacuum cleaner nozzle T illustrated in Fig. 10. Like the first cross section in Fig. 14, the second cross section of Fig. 15a is made in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T. However, the second cross section is made through a portion of the nozzle base 3 at which a flow guiding element 7’ is arranged. In other words, the second cross section of Fig. 15a extends through a flow guiding element 7’ in a plane parallel to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T. Moreover, in Fig. 15a, the nozzle T is illustrated as positioned in an upright use position on a floor surface 30 and the flow guiding element 7’ is illustrated in the extracted position.
Fig. 15b illustrates the second cross section of Fig. 15a in which the flow guiding element 7’ has been moved to the retracted position. According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 10 - Fig. 15b, each flow guiding element 7’ is pivotally arranged between the retracted and the extracted positions around a pivot axis Pa. According to the illustrated embodiments, the respective pivot axis Pa is perpendicular to each of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1. According to further embodiments, the respective pivot axis Pa may be substantially perpendicular to each of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle 1
Moreover, each flow guiding element 7’ comprises a first and a second surface 41, 42 each facing in a direction towards the floor surface 30 during operation of the nozzle T. As seen in Fig. 15a, the first surface 41 is substantially parallel to the floor surface 30 when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the extracted position. Moreover, as seen in Fig. 15b, the second surface 42 is substantially parallel to the floor surface 30 when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the retracted position. Thereby, advantageous flow characteristics and an advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements 7’ and the suction port 5 when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the extracted position as well as when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the retracted position.
Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 , Fig. 2, and Fig. 10 - Fig. 15b, if not indicated otherwise. According to embodiment herein, each flow guiding element 7’ is configured to be moved towards the retracted position when a force is applied onto the flow guiding element 7’ in a direction d4 into the nozzle base 3. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7’ is configured to be moved towards the extracted position at least in part by gravity. According to further embodiments, one or more flow guiding elements 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ may be configured to be moved towards the extracted position at least in part by gravity. Furthermore, one or more flow guiding elements 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ may be biased towards the extracted position by at least one spring element 8. That is, in more detail, a spring element 8’ is schematically illustrated in Fig. 15a and Fig. 15b. Each flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ of the nozzle 1 ’ may comprise a spring element 8’ configured to apply a biasing force onto the flow guiding element 7’ in a direction towards the extracted position.
As an alternative, or in addition, the nozzle T explained with reference to Fig. 1 , Fig. 2, and Fig. 10 - Fig. 15b may comprise one or more elongated connection structures which connects a number of flow guiding elements 7’ such that the number of flow guiding elements 7’ can move in unison.
Since the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle T comprises the number of a flow guiding elements 7’ each having a cross section tapering away from the suction port 5 as seen along a direction d1, d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7’, a vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port 5 while being able guide particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner during use of the nozzle T. This is because the tapering cross section of the flow guiding elements 7’ forms funnel shaped openings between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’.
Moreover, since each flow guiding element 7’ is movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3, a nozzle T is provided circumventing the need for a manual change of a setting of a mechanism when moving from a harder type of surface, such as a floor surface, to a softer type of surface, such as a carpet, and vice versa. This is because an abutting contact between the flow guiding elements 7’ and a protruding part of a surface area being cleaned, such as an edge of a carpet, or the like, or the abutting contact between the flow guiding elements 7’ and an object or particle, can displace the flow guiding elements 7’ in the direction d4 into the nozzle base 3. When the abutting contact is released, and/or when the abutting force is reduced, the flow guiding elements 7’ can be displaced in the direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3 by gravity and/or by the biasing force of one or more spring elements 8’. As a result, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided.
Furthermore, since each flow guiding element 7’ is movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3, advantageous flow characteristics and an advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements 7’ and the suction port 5 also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like. This is because the abutting contact between portions of the softer type of surface and the flow guiding elements 7’ can move the flow guiding elements 7’ to positions between the retracted and extracted positions.
In addition, since the nozzle T comprises the number of a flow guiding elements 7’ each having the tapered cross section and being movably arranged in directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3, a vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided having conditions for low frictional forces between the nozzle T and a surface to be cleaned, also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like.
Moreover, due to the number of flow guiding elements 7’, a nozzle T is provided capable guiding particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner also when cleaning softer types of surfaces.
As is best seen in Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 , according to the illustrated embodiments, the flow guiding elements 7’ of the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ have identical but mirrored design as the flow guiding elements 7’ of the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7’. According to further embodiments, the flow guiding elements 7’ of the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ may have substantially identical but mirrored design as the flow guiding elements 7’ of the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7’.
Moreover, as is best seen in Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 , according to the illustrated embodiments, the first and second sets s1, s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ comprises the same number of flow guiding elements 7’. According to further embodiments, the first and second sets s1, s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ may comprise substantially the same number of flow guiding elements 7’. Due to these features, a vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Moreover, a vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided having the same, or at least similar, operational characteristics when moved in the reverse moving direction rd over a surface as when moved in forward moving direction fd over the surface.
Furthermore, as is best seen in Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 , according to the illustrated embodiments, each of the first and second sets s1 , s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ comprises ten flow guiding elements 7’. In other words, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle base 3 of the nozzle T comprises twenty flow guiding elements 7’ in total. According to further embodiments, the number of flow guiding elements 7’ of each of the first and second sets s1 , s2 of flow guiding elements 7’ may be an integer within the range of 4 - 26, or an integer within the range of 7 - 15. Moreover, according to further embodiments, the total number of flow guiding elements 7’ of the nozzle base 3 may be an integer within the range of 4 - 52, or an integer within the range of 14 - 30.
According to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7’ is non-air permeable. According to these embodiments, each flow guiding element 7’ may be formed by a solid or composite material arranged to not allow air to pass through the flow guiding element 7’. Each flow guiding element 7’ may comprises an elastic material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, or the like, preferably a portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7’ being configured to face the floor surface 30 during operation of the nozzle T. As an alternative, or in addition, each flow guiding elements 7’ may comprise a polymeric material such as plastics.
Since each flow guiding element 7’ is non-air permeable according to the illustrated embodiments, a further advantageous flow characteristics can be provided towards the suction port 5 during use of the nozzle T. Moreover, a further advantageous level of partial vacuum can be provided between the number of flow guiding elements 7’ and the suction port 5 also when cleaning softer types of surfaces, such as carpets, furniture, and the like. In addition, a vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Furthermore, vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided having conditions for an improved ability to guide particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner.
Fig. 16 illustrates an enlarged view of a pair of flow guiding elements 7’ of the nozzle base 3 of a vacuum cleaner nozzle T explained with reference to Fig. 10 - Fig. 15b. The flow guiding elements 7’ in Fig. 16 are illustrated as arranged in a respective aperture 9. Fig. 16 is drawn to scale and the flow guiding elements 7’ are illustrated as seen in a direction straight towards the nozzle base. Moreover, in Fig. 16, a respective pivot axis Pa of the flow guiding elements 7’ is illustrated and the flow guiding elements 7’ are illustrated in a respective retracted position.
Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 , Fig. 2, and Fig. 10 - Fig. 16, if not indicated otherwise. According to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7’ comprises a wide section 11. The wide section 11 of each flow guiding element 7’ faces the suction port 5. As is indicated in Fig. 16, the width w of the wide section 11 is greater than the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’. Thereby, a nozzle T is provided capable of guiding particles and objects towards the suction port 5 in an efficient manner, and having conditions for advantageous flow characteristics towards the suction port 5 during use of the nozzle T.
According to the illustrated embodiments, the width w of the wide section 11 is approximately 94% greater than the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’. According to further embodiments, the width w of the wide section 11 may be 5 - 170% greater, or 75% - 120% greater, than the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’.
The width w of the wide section 11 of a flow guiding element 7’, as well as the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’, is measured in a direction perpendicular to the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T and parallel to a floor surface 30 against which the nozzle base 3 is configured to face when the nozzle T is positioned in an upright use position thereon.
According to the illustrated embodiments, width w of the wide section 11 of each flow guiding element 7’ is approximately 15.5 millimetres. According to further embodiments, the width w of the wide section 11 of each flow guiding element 7’ may be within the range of 6 - 40 millimetres, or may be within the range of 10 - 20 millimetres.
Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ is approximately 8 mm. According to further embodiments, the distance D1 between two adjacent flow guiding elements 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ may be within the range of 2 - 24 millimetres, or may be within the range of 4 - 12 millimetres.
According to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ comprises a first and a second side surface 13, 15 arranged such that the cross section of the flow guiding element 7’ taper away from the suction port 5 as seen along the direction d1 , d2 from the suction port 5 towards the flow guiding element 7’. According to the illustrated embodiments, the angle a1, a2 between each of the first and second side surfaces 13, 15 and one of a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle T is approximately 31 degrees. According to further embodiments, the angle a1 , a2 between each of the first and second side surfaces 13, 15 and one of a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle T may be within the range of 10 - 65 degrees, or may be within the range of 20 - 40 degrees. According to the illustrated embodiments, each flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ comprises a narrow section 17 facing away from the suction port 5. The narrow section 17 comprises an elongated portion 19 having a direction of elongation de being substantially parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction fd, rd of the nozzle T.
As mentioned, according to these embodiments, each flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ comprises a first surface 41 being substantially parallel to the floor surface 30 when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the extracted position and the nozzle 1 is positioned in the upright use position on the floor surface 30. The first surface 41 is also indicated in Fig. 15a.
The narrow section 17 of the flow guiding element 7’ comprises a front surface 23 being angled relative to the first surface 41. In other words, the narrow section 17 comprises a front surface 23 facing the floor surface 30 at an angle a3 whereas the first surface 41 faces straight towards the floor surface 30 when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the extracted position and the nozzle 1 is positioned in the upright use position on the floor surface 30. The angle a3 is indicated in Fig. 15a. The angle a3 in Fig. 15a, is approximately 46 degrees, but may be within the range of 10 - 80 degrees, or may be within the range of 20 - 70 degrees. The angle a3 may be measured between a surface normal of the front surface 23 of the narrow section 17 of a flow guiding element 7’ and a floor surface 30 when the nozzle T is positioned in the upright use position onto the floor surface 30 and the flow guiding element 7’ is in the extracted position as is illustrated in Fig. 15a. The front surface 23 of the narrow section 17 is also indicated in Fig. 12.
Due to the narrow section 17 and the front surface 23 thereof, which is angled relative to the first surface 41 and faces the floor surface 30 at an angle a3, the number of flow guiding elements 7’ can be moved in the direction d4 towards the respective retracted position in a more efficient manner when a flow guiding element 7’ is abutting against an elevated part of a surface, such as an edge of a carpet, or the like, or is abutting against an object or particle. According to some embodiments, the narrow section 17, and the front surface 23 thereof, may comprise an elastic material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, or the like.
As is best seen in Fig. 16, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 10 - Fig. 16, the first surface 41 of each flow guiding element 7’ has a triangular shape as seen in a direction d4 towards the nozzle base 3 apart from the narrow section 17 of the flow guiding element 7’ which can be said to form a section protruding out from a first corner of the triangular shape, wherein the first corner of the triangular shape points in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T. Moreover, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 10 - Fig. 16, the second surface 42 of each flow guiding element 7’ has a regular quadrilateral shape as seen in a direction d4 towards the nozzle base 3
According to the illustrated embodiments, the combined width w2 of the triangular part and the regular quadrilateral part of each flow guiding element 7’, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the retracted position, is approximately 11.8 millimetres. According to further embodiments, the width w2 of the triangular part of each flow guiding element 7’, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the retracted position, may be within the range of 5 - 35 millimetres, or may be within the range of 8 - 16 millimetres.
Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, the width w3 of the elongated portion 19 of each flow guiding element 7’, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the retracted position, is approximately 4 millimetres. According to further embodiments, the width w3 of the elongated portion 19 of each flow guiding element 7’, measured in a direction parallel to one of the forward and reverse moving directions fd, rd of the nozzle T when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the retracted position, may be within the range of 1 - 14 millimetres, or may be within the range of 2 - 7 millimetres.
As is indicated in Fig. 14, according to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle T comprises a height adjustment mechanism 29 for changing a relative distance between floor engaging portions of the wheels 4 and the nozzle base 3. The height adjustment mechanism 29 is operably connected to a height adjustment knob 29’. The height adjustment knob 29’ is seen and indicated in Fig. 1 , Fig. 2, and Fig. 14. Due to the height adjustment mechanism 29, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle T is provided allowing a user to select whether the number of wheels 4 should be in an extracted or retracted position and thereby also allowing the user to select a distance between the nozzle base 3 and a surface 30 to be cleaned.
Furthermore, according to the illustrated embodiments, the flow guiding elements 7’ are configured to assume a respective retracted position relative to the nozzle base 3 when the relative distance between the floor engaging portions of the wheels 4 and the nozzle base 3 is reduced, i.e. , when the height adjustment mechanism 29 is controlled such that the number of wheels 4 are in a respective retracted position relative to the nozzle base 3. Thereby, a more user-friendly vacuum cleaner nozzle is provided allowing a user to select whether the number of flow guiding elements 7’ should be in the respective retracted position or not during use of the vacuum cleaner nozzle T.
Also in the embodiments explained with reference to Fig. 10 - Fig. 16, the nozzle base 3 may comprises a number of indentations each arranged between a flow guiding element 7’ of the number of flow guiding elements 7’ and the suction port 5. Each such an indentation may be arranged such that a delimiting surface thereof is substantially flush with a portion 16 of the flow guiding element 7’ being configured to face the floor surface 30 during operation of the nozzle T when the flow guiding element 7’ is in the retracted position.
The following is explained with simultaneous reference to Fig. 1 - Fig. 16. The vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more brush rolls. The one or more brush rolls may each be powered to rotate by a motor, such as an electric motor or a pneumatic motor. According to such embodiments, the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T may comprise one brush roll between the first set s1 of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ and the suction port 5. As an alternative, or in addition, the vacuum cleaner nozzle 1 , T may comprise one brush roll between the second set s2 of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ and the suction port 5.
The wording “substantially parallel to”, as used herein, may encompass that the angle between the objects referred to is less than 10 degrees, or is less than 7 degrees.
The wording “substantially perpendicular to”, as used herein, may encompass that the angle between the objects referred to is within the range of 80 - 100 degrees or is within the range of 83 - 97 degrees.
The wording “substantially flush with”, as used herein, may encompass that the distance between the objects referred to, measured in a direction parallel to the directions d3, d4 into and out from the nozzle base 3, is less than 5 millimetres, or is less than 2.5 millimetres.
The feature that the first and second sets s1 , s2 of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ comprises substantially the same number of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ may encompass that the difference between the number of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ of one of the first and second sets s1, s2 of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ and the other of the first and second sets s1, s2 of flow guiding elements 7, 7’ is less than two. The direction d4 into the nozzle base 3, as referred to herein, may also be referred to as a direction d4 towards the nozzle base 3. Likewise, the direction d3 out from the nozzle base 3, as referred to herein, may also be referred to as a direction d3 away from the nozzle base 3. It is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of various example embodiments and that the invention is defined only by the appended independent claims. A person skilled in the art will realize that the example embodiments may be modified, and that different features of the example embodiments may be combined to create embodiments other than those described herein, without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended independent claims.
As used herein, the term "comprising" or "comprises" is open-ended, and includes one or more stated features, elements, steps, components, or functions but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, components, functions, or groups thereof.

Claims

1. A vacuum cleaner nozzle (1 , T) configured to be moved over a floor surface (30), wherein the nozzle (1 , T) comprises a nozzle base (3) configured to face the floor surface (30) during operation of the nozzle (1 , T), wherein the nozzle base (3) comprises a suction port (5) and a number of flow guiding elements (7, 7’) arranged adjacent to the suction port (5), wherein each flow guiding element (7, 7’) of the number of flow guiding elements (7, 7’) has a cross section tapering away from the suction port (5) as seen along a direction (d1, d2) from the suction port (5) towards the flow guiding element (7, 7’), and wherein each flow guiding element (7, 7’) is movably arranged in directions (d3, d4) into and out from the nozzle base (3) between a retracted and an extracted position.
2. The nozzle (1 , T) according to claim 1 , wherein each flow guiding element (7, 7’) is non- air permeable.
3. The nozzle (1 , T) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each flow guiding element (7, 7’) comprises an elastic material, preferably a portion (16) of the flow guiding element (7, 7’) being configured to face the floor surface (30) during operation of the nozzle (1 , T).
4. The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each flow guiding element (7, 7’) is configured to be moved towards the retracted position when a force is applied onto the flow guiding element (7, 7’) in a direction (d4) into the nozzle base (3).
5. The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more flow guiding elements (7, 7’) of the number of flow guiding elements (7, 7’) is/are configured to be moved towards the extracted position at least in part by gravity.
6. The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more flow guiding elements (7, 7’) of the number of flow guiding elements (7, 7’) is/are biased towards the extracted position by at least one spring element (8, 8’).
7. The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nozzle base (3) comprises a first base portion (31) comprising a first set (s1) of flow guiding elements (7, 7’) arranged in front of the suction port (5) as seen relative to a forward moving direction (fd) of the nozzle (1 , T). The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nozzle base (3) comprises a second base portion (32) comprising a second set (s2) of flow guiding elements (7, 7’) arranged in front of the suction port (5) as seen relative to a reverse moving direction (rd) of the nozzle (1 , T). The nozzle (1 , T) according to claim 7 and 8, wherein the flow guiding elements (7, 7’) of the second set (s2) of flow guiding elements (7, 7’) have identical but mirrored design as the flow guiding elements (7, 7’) of the first set (s1) of flow guiding elements (7, 7’). The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the number of flow guiding elements (7, 7’) of the nozzle base (3) is an integer within the range of 4 - 52, or within the range of 14 - 30. The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each flow guiding element (7, 7’) comprises a wide section (11) facing the suction port (5), and wherein the width (w) of the wide section (11) is greater than the distance (D1) between two adjacent flow guiding elements (7, 7’) of the number of flow guiding elements (7, 7’). The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each flow guiding element (7, 7’) comprises a first and a second side surface (13, 15) arranged such that the cross section of the flow guiding element (7, 7’) taper away from the suction port (5) as seen along the direction (d1 , d2) from the suction port (5) towards the flow guiding element (7, 7’), and wherein the angle (a1 , a2) between each of the first and second side surfaces (13, 15) and one of a forward and a reverse moving direction (fd, rd) of the nozzle (1 , T) is within the range of 10 - 65 degrees, or is within the range of 20 - 40 degrees. The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each flow guiding element (7, 7’) comprises a wide section (11) facing the suction port (5) and a narrow section (17) facing away from the suction port (5), and wherein the narrow section (17) comprises an elongated portion (19) having a direction of elongation (de) being substantially parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction (fd, rd) of the nozzle (1 , T). The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each flow guiding element (7, 7’) comprises a wide section (11) facing the suction port (5) and a narrow section (17) facing away from the suction port (5), and wherein each flow guiding element (7, 7’) comprises a first surface (41) being substantially parallel to the floor surface (30), at least when the guiding element (7, 7’) is in one of the retracted and extracted positions, and wherein the narrow section (17) comprises a front surface (23) being angled relative to the first surface (41). The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nozzle base (3) comprises a number of apertures (9), and wherein each flow guiding element (7, 7’) is arranged at least partially inside an aperture (9) of the number of apertures (9). The nozzle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nozzle base (3) comprises a number of indentations (25) each arranged between a flow guiding element (7) of the number of flow guiding elements (7) and the suction port (5). The nozzle (1) according to claim 16, wherein each indentation (25) of the number of indentations (25) is arranged such that a delimiting surface (25’) thereof is substantially flush with a portion (16) of the flow guiding element (7) being configured to face the floor surface (30) during operation of the nozzle (1) when the flow guiding element (7) is in the retracted position. The nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the suction port (5) and the number of flow guiding elements (7, 7’) are arranged such that the direction (d1, d2) from the suction port (5) towards the respective flow guiding elements (7, 7’) are parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction (fd, rd) of the nozzle (1 , T). The nozzle (1, T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nozzle (1, T) comprises a number of wheels (4) each having a rolling direction being parallel to a forward and a reverse moving direction (fd, rd) of the nozzle (1 , T). The nozzle (1 , T) according to claim 19, wherein the nozzle (1 , T) comprises a height adjustment mechanism (29) for changing a relative distance between floor engaging portions of the wheels (4) and the nozzle base (3). The nozzle (1 , T) according to claim 20, wherein the flow guiding elements (7, 7’) are configured to assume a respective retracted position relative to the nozzle base (3) when the relative distance between the floor engaging portions of the wheels (4) and the nozzle base (3) is reduced. The nozzle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each flow guiding element (7) is linearly movably arranged in directions (d3, d4) into and out from the nozzle base (3) between the retracted and extracted positions. The nozzle (1) according to claim 22, wherein each flow guiding element (7) is linearly movably arranged in directions (d3, d4) being substantially perpendicular to a floor surface (30) when the nozzle (1) is positioned in an upright use position on the floor surface (30). The nozzle (T) according to any one of the claims 1 - 21, wherein each flow guiding element (7’) is pivotally arranged between the retracted and the extracted positions. The nozzle (T) according to claim 24, wherein each flow guiding element (7’) comprises a first and a second surface (41 , 42) each facing in a direction towards the floor surface (30) during operation of the nozzle (T), wherein the first surface (41) is substantially parallel to the floor surface (30) when the flow guiding element (7’) is in the extracted position, and wherein the second surface (42) is substantially parallel to the floor surface (30) when the flow guiding element (7’) is in the retracted position. A vacuum cleaner (20) comprising a vacuum cleaner nozzle (1 , T) according to any one of the preceding claims.
EP22733059.4A 2022-06-10 2022-06-10 Vacuum cleaner nozzle and vacuum cleaner Pending EP4536051A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

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PCT/EP2022/065888 WO2023237216A1 (en) 2022-06-10 2022-06-10 Vacuum cleaner nozzle and vacuum cleaner

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Family Cites Families (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE4439427B4 (en) * 1994-11-04 2004-04-08 Vorwerk & Co. Interholding Gmbh Vacuum cleaner for the care of floor coverings
EP0836826B1 (en) * 1996-10-21 2006-11-22 VORWERK & CO. INTERHOLDING GmbH Suction device attachment for wet cleaning surfaces
CN111281266B (en) * 2011-04-29 2021-12-10 艾罗伯特公司 Mobile cleaning robot and autonomous coverage robot
WO2018074848A1 (en) * 2016-10-19 2018-04-26 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Robot vacuum cleaner
DE102018211735A1 (en) * 2018-07-13 2020-01-16 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Floor nozzle for a vacuum cleaner

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