GB2616647A

GB2616647A - A surface cleaning apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2616647A
Application number: GB2203660.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Swayne Abigail; Pearson Jack
Original assignee: Techtronic Cordless GP
Current assignee: Techtronic Cordless GP
Priority date: 2022-03-16
Filing date: 2022-03-16
Publication date: 2023-09-20
Also published as: GB202203660D0

Abstract

A surface cleaning apparatus (10, fig. 1) for cleaning a surface including a housing 16 supporting: a suction source 18; a dirt separation device 20; a passage member 26 fluidly connected to the dirt separation device, wherein dirt-laden air flows in a first direction (F1) through the passage member and the passage member is connectable to a surface cleaning tool; wherein the dirt separation device is slidably connected to the housing for movement of the dirt separation device relative to the housing, from a first state in which the dirt separation device is connected to and supported by the housing, and a second state, in which the dirt separation device is detached and separated from the housing. An independent claim is included for an apparatus wherein the dirt separation device is slidably connected to the housing for movement of the dirt separation device relative to the housing in a second direction (F2) which is transverse to the first direction (F1). Also claimed is an apparatus wherein a first and second end of the dirt separation device comprise a first and second cover member (23a and 23b, fig. 11a) which are moveable between a closed and open positions.

Description

A SURFACE CLEANING APPARATUS

FIELD

This invention relates to a surface cleaning apparatus.

BACKGROUND

Different kinds of surface cleaning apparatus are known. Upright cleaners are known which have an upright part pivotally connected to a floor head and a user grasps a handle of the upright part to move the floor head back and forth over a floor surface to be cleaned. Cylinder cleaners are known for which the main operative components, i.e. suction source, dirt collection chamber, are supported by a housing having wheels. A rigid elongate member fluidly connects the operative components in the housing to a floor head and the user grasps a handle of the elongate member to move the floor head along the floor surface to be cleaned whilst the housing is moved by pulling the elongate member in the desired direction. Handheld cleaners are known which have a housing supporting the operative components of the cleaner and for which the housing can be easily carried by the user during cleaning; such cleaners may or may not include a battery. Stick vacuum cleaners are known which are formed by fluidly connecting a housing of a handheld unit to a floor head via a relatively rigid elongate member. For such cleaners, the user can steer the floor head by moving the handheld unit in the desired direction. 2-in-1 vacuum cleaners are known and are formed by connecting a housing of a handheld unit to a body incorporating an upright section having a handle that is grasped by a user to steer a floor head connected to the body.

Surface cleaning apparatus have a dirt separation device for separating dirt from dirt-laden air which includes the dirt lifted from the surface being cleaned. The dirt separation device may have a separator in the form of a cyclonic separator which causes dirt-laden air to flow in a swirling motion around the body of the separator to cause the dirt to separate from the dirt-laden air and the dirt is collected in a dirt collection chamber. In alternatives, the separator may be in the form of a filter bag which separates dirt and collects dirt within it, or any other appropriate device to separate, and, collect, the dirt from the air. During use of the surface cleaning apparatus, dirt retained by the dirt separation device must be emptied when a maximum amount of dirt has been reached.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a surface cleaning apparatus for cleaning a surface including: a housing supporting: a suction source including a motor for rotating a fan about an axis (A); and a dirt separation device having first and second opposite ends, the dirt separation device including a space having a separator for separating dirt from dirt-laden air and a dirt collection chamber for receiving separated dirt; a passage member fluidly connected to the dirt separation device for receiving dirt-laden air, wherein dirt-laden air flows in a first direction (F1) through the passage member during use and the passage member is fluidly connectable or connected to a surface cleaning tool and/or an elongate member having an elongate axis to which a surface cleaning tool is fluidly connectable or is connected; wherein the dirt separation device is slidably connected to the housing for movement of the dirt separation device relative to the housing in a second direction (F2) which is transverse to the first direction (F1) from a first state, in which the dirt separation device is connected to and supported by the housing, and a second state, in which the dirt separation device is detached and separated fromthe housing.

Optionally or preferably the dirt separation device is connected to the housing to move linearly between its first and second states.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a surface cleaning apparatus for cleaning a surface including: a housing supporting: a suction source including a motor for rotating a fan about an axis (A); a dirt separation device having first and second opposite ends, the dirt separation device including: a space including a separator for separating dirt from dirt-laden air and a dirt collection chamber for receiving separated dirt; a first cover member provided at the first end moveable between a closed position in which access to the space is inhibited, and an open position in which access to the space is permitted; and a second cover member provided at the second end moveable between a closed position in which access to the dirt collection chamber is inhibited and an open position in which access to the dirt collection chamber is permitted; a passage member fluidly connected to the dirt separation device for receiving dirt-laden air, wherein dirt-laden air flows in a first direction (F1) through the passage member during use and the passage member is fluidly connectable or connected to a surface cleaning tool and/or an elongate member having an elongate axis to which a surface cleaning tool is fluidly connectable or is connected; wherein the dirt separation device is slidably connected to the housing to permit movement of the dirt separation device between a first state, in which the dirt separation device is connected to and supported by the housing, and a second state, in which the dirt separation device is detached and separated from the housing.

Optionally or preferably the dirt separation device includes: a first cover member provided at the first end moveable between a closed position in which access to the space is inhibited, and an open position in which access to the space is permitted; and/or a second cover member provided at the second end moveable between a closed position in which access to the dirt collection chamber is inhibited and an open position in which access to the dirt collection chamber is permitted.

Optionally or preferably the surface cleaning apparatus includes a blocking device for inhibiting movement of the dirt separation device from the first state to the second state and optionally or preferably the dirt separation device includes the blocking device.

Optionally or preferably the blocking device is movable between a blocking state, in which the blocking device inhibits movement of the dirt separation device, and a non-blocking state, in which the blocking device permits movement of the dirt separation device.

Optionally or preferably the blocking device is biased to the blocking state.

Optionally or preferably the apparatus includes an actuator for operating the blocking device.

Optionally or preferably the dirt separation device includes the actuator, and optionally or preferably the actuator is connected to the blocking device, and optionally or preferably the actuator and blocking device are integrally formed as a single component.

Optionally or preferably the blocking device is pivotally movable between its blocking and non-blocking states and optionally or preferably the blocking device is pivotally movable about an axis P which is transverse to the direction in which the dirt separation device moves between its first and second states.

Optionally or preferably the blocking device is connected to or provided by the first cover member.

Optionally or preferably the actuator is connected to or provided by the first cover 35 member.

Optionally or preferably the dirt separation device includes a user graspable handle connected to the first cover member.

Optionally or preferably the user graspable handle is connected to the blocking member and/or forms the actuator, and optionally or preferably the user graspable handle may be operated by a user to move the blocking member to its non-blocking state.

Optionally or preferably the dirt separation device and the housing include respective co-operating members and wherein the co-operating members provide the connection between the did separation device and the housing, optionally or preferably guide the dirt separation device to move linearly or slide as it moves between its first and second states.

Optionally or preferably the first and second ends of the dirt separation device are connected by a wall and the wall includes at least one co-operating member, optionally or preferably two co-operating members, and/or wherein the cooperating member(s) on the dirt separation device are one of male or female co-operating member(s) and the co-operating member(a) on the housing are the other of male or female co-operating member(s).

Optionally or preferably the dirt separation device includes an outlet passage member which receives cleaned air from the dirt separation device and the 25 housing includes a further passage member which fluidly connects the outlet passage member to the suction source.

Optionally or preferably the first cover member includes the outlet passage member.

Optionally or preferably the apparatus includes one or more or all of: a) wherein the did separation device has an axis (D) which intersects the first and second ends, and optionally or preferably axis (D) is parallel to axis (A).

b) the dirt separation device moves in a direction which is parallel to axis (A) between its first and second states and/or c) the dirt separation device is orientated generally horizontally or parallel to the surface being cleaned during use.

Optionally or preferably the apparatus includes a battery for providing power to operate the suction source, wherein the battery has first and second opposite ends, and a lengthwise axis (C) defined by the direction in which the battery extends between the first and second ends, wherein the dirt separation device moves transverse to axis (C) between its first and second states.

Optionally or preferably the did separation device moves linearly, e.g. along linear path, between its first and second states.

Optionally or preferably the passage member is connectable to a surface cleaning tool or elongate member, and/or the separator is a cyclonic separator.

Optionally or preferably the housing includes the passage member and/or the housing supports a user graspable handle.

Optionally or preferably the apparatus includes: a surface cleaning tool; and an elongate member having an elongate axis, said elongate member fluidly connecting the surface cleaning tool to the dirt separation device and including a passage for carrying dirt-laden air from the surface cleaning tool thereto.

Optionally or preferably the apparatus is a handheld cleaner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In order that the present disclosure may be more readily understood, preferable embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIGURE 1 is a front view of a surface cleaning apparatus in a first configuration

embodying the present disclosure;

FIGURE 2 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning apparatus in the first configuration embodying the present disclosure; FIGURE 3 is a plan view of the apparatus of Figure 1 in a second configuration; FIGURE 4 is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1 in the second configuration; FIGURE 5 is a cross-section view of a component of the apparatus of Figure 1 with certain parts not shown; FIGURE 6 is a partial cross-section perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 in the first configuration with certain parts not shown; FIGURE 7 is a perspective view of a component of the apparatus of Figure 1; FIGURE 8 is a further perspective view of a component of the apparatus of Figure 1; FIGURE 9 is a perspective view of a component of the apparatus of Figure 1; FIGURE 10a is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 in the second configuration and in a certain state; FIGURE 10b is an enlarged perspective view of the portion Z shown in Figure 10a; and FIGURES 11 a and 11 b are perspective views of the apparatus of Figure 1 in the second configuration in different respective states.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Referring to the Figures, these show a surface cleaning apparatus 10 in accordance with the present disclosure. The apparatus 10 includes a surface cleaning tool 12 (a floor head in this example), a housing 16 which is generally elongate shaped about an elongate axis H and an elongate member 14, having an elongate axis E, fluidly connecting the surface cleaning tool 12 to the housing 16.

The elongate member 14 is relatively rigid. The surface cleaning apparatus 10 is shown in Figure 1 in a first configuration that is commonly referred to as a stick vac cleaner. The elongate member 14 is commonly referred to as a wand. The housing 16, in this example, is operable as a handheld surface cleaning apparatus in a second configuration shown in Figures 3 and 4, commonly known as a hand vac or handheld cleaner, when the elongate member 14 is not connected thereto, and, in this state, the housing 16 can be used with or without the surface cleaning tool 12 connected thereto. In examples, alternatively, the surface cleaning apparatus 10 may be formed as a 2-in-1 vacuum cleaner. In such examples, the 20 housing 16 may be connected or selectively connectable to a body to which a surface cleaning tool 12 is fluidly connected to form the 2-in-1 vacuum cleaner.

The housing 16 supports a suction source 18 including a motor for rotating a fan 18' (shown schematically in broken lines in figure 4) about an axis A. The housing supports a dirt separation device 20 having first and second opposite ends 20a, 20b. The ends 20a, 20b may be connected by a wall 23 extending therebetween. The dirt separation device 20 includes a space S having a separator 22 for separating dirt from dirt-laden air and a dirt collection chamber 24 for receiving separated dirt. In examples, the separator 22 may be in the form of a filter bag received in the space S defined by the dirt separation device 20 and the dirt collection chamber 24 may be an internal space defined by the bag. In examples, the separator 22 may be a cyclonic separator as will be described. The housing 16 may support a user graspable handle 17. The housing 16 supports a passage member 26 fluidly connected to the dirt separation device 20 for receiving dirt-laden air. The passage member 26 is fluidly connectable or connected to the surface cleaning tool 12 and/or elongate member 14. The passage member 26 may be coupled to the surface cleaning tool 12 and/or elongate member 14 by a coupling device, e.g. a user operable button including a latch. During use, dirt-laden air flows in a first direction El through the passage member 26 during use. Passage member 26 may be selectively connectable to the elongate member 14 and/or the surface cleaning tool 12, e.g. received therein or vice versa.

In examples, the suction source 18 is positioned forward of the user graspable handle 17. In examples, there may be a space for receiving a user's hand which extends between the user graspable handle 17 and the suction source 18. In examples, the apparatus 10 includes a battery 28 for providing power to operate the suction source 18. In examples, the housing 16 may support the battery 28 and the battery 28 may be generally elongate shaped. The battery 28 may have first and second opposite ends 28a, 28b and a lengthwise axis C defined by the direction in which the battery 28 extends between ends 28a, 28b. In examples, the dirt separation device 20 may move transversely, e.g. perpendicularly, to axis C between its first and second states.

The dirt separation device 20 may be removed or released from the housing 16. In examples, the housing 16 includes a portion 16a (see figure 9) that defines a recess in which the dirt separation device 20 is positioned when the dirt separation device 20 is connected to the housing 16. The portion 16a surrounds wall 23 when the dirt separation device 20 is connected to the housing 16. In example aspects of the present disclosure, the dirt separation device 20 may include a first cover member 23a provided at the first end 20a moveable between a closed position in which access to the space S is inhibited, and an open position in which access to the space S is permitted, e.g. a portion of the space S adjacent the first end 20a. The dirt separation device 20 may include a second cover member 23b provided at the second end 20b moveable between a closed position in which access to the dirt collection chamber 24 is inhibited and an open position in which access to the dirt collection chamber 24 is permitted. Where the separator 22 is provided as a bag, access to the dirt collection chamber 24 denotes access to this portion of the bag.

The first cover member 23a may be pivotally movable between its closed and open states. For example, it may be pivotally connected to the wall 23. The dirt separation device 20 may include a biasing device, e.g. a spring (not shown), for biasing the first cover member 23a to its open state and a locking device 25a, e.g. in the form of a user operable button or latch, for retaining the first cover member 23a in its closed state. A user may operate the locking device 25a, e.g. by pressing the user operable button, to release the first cover member 23a and allow it to move to its open state. Similar to the first cover member 23a, the second cover member 23b may be pivotally movable and connected to the wall 23. The dirt separation device 20 may also similarly include a further biasing device, e.g. a spring, for biasing the second cover member 23b to its open state and a locking device 25b, e.g. in the form of a user operable button or latch, for retaining the second cover member 23b in its closed state with the locking device 25b being operable to release the second cover member 23b and permit it to move its open state.

In example aspects of the present disclosure, the dirt separation device 20 may be supported by the housing 16 for movement of the dirt separation device 20 relative to the housing 16 in a second direction F2 which is transverse to the first direction Fl from a first state (shown in figures 3 and 4), in which the dirt separation device 20 is connected to the housing 16, and a second state (shown in figures 10a and 10b with figure 10b being a magnified view of the portion Z shown in figure 10a), in which the dirt separation device 20 is not connected to the housing 16. The housing 16 may support the dirt separation device 20 whilst the dirt separation device 20 is moving to the second state. The first state refers to a state in which the dirt separation device 20 is retained in the housing 16 whether that be a docked state in which the device 20 is inhibited from movement relative to the housing 16 such as that shown in Figures 3 and 4, or where the dirt separation device 20 is connected to the housing 16 and permitted to move relative to the housing 16. The second state refers to a state where the dirt separation device 20 is no longer supported by the housing 16 and has been removed.

In an example aspect of the present disclosure, the dirt separation device 20 may be slidably connected to the housing 16 to permit movement of the dirt separation device 20 between the first state, in which the dirt separation device 20 is connected to and is supported by the housing 16, and the second state, in which the dirt separation device 20 is disconnected and separated from the housing 16. The dirt separation device 20 slides in the second direction F2 from the first state to the second state. In the first state, the dirt separation device 20 is connected to the housing 16 so that the dirt separation device 20 is retained by or held relative to the housing 16 to support the dirt separation device 20. In the second state, the dirt separation device 20 is removed from the housing 16. The dirt separation device 20 is not retained by or otherwise held relative to the housing 16 in the second state. Advantageously, in this example, the dirt separation device 20 is moved to the second state in a single movement along the second direction F2.

In examples, the dirt separation device 20 may be generally cylindrical. The dirt separation device 20 may include a filter 21 (see Figure 5 which is a side cross-section view of the device 20 with the first cover member 23a not shown) for cleaning the relatively clean air outputted by the dirt separation device 20 and this may be positioned near or adjacent first end 20a. The filter 21 is a pre-filter that cleans air upstream of the suction source 18 prior to the air reaching the suction source 18. In examples, where the dirt separation device 20 includes a first cover member 23a, access to the filter 21 is permitted once the first cover member 23a is in its open position.

The dirt separation device 20 may have an axis D which intersects ends 20a, 20b. Axis D may be a central axis of the dirt separation device 20. In examples, the suction source 18 and dirt separation device 20 may be spaced or positioned adjacent each other along a common axis. The dirt separation device 20 may be positioned forwardly of the suction source 18. In examples, the dirt separation device 20 may be transversely orientated, e.g. perpendicularly orientated, with respect to the housing 16, e.g. axis D may be transverse or perpendicular to axis H. Axis D may be perpendicular to the first direction Fl and/or perpendicular to the elongate axis E of the elongate member 14. Axis D may be parallel to axis A. In examples, the suction source 18 may be orientated differently, e.g. longitudinally with axis A parallel to axis H. In this example, the dirt separation device 20 includes a passage member 27 which extends outwardly away from the wall 23 for fluid connection to the passage member 26. In other examples, the dirt separation device 20 may not have a passage member 27 and, instead, the wall 23 may include an inlet which is fluidly connected to the passage member 26. In other examples, the housing 16 does not have a passage member and, instead, the apparatus 10 has a single passage member that is provided on the dirt separation device 20 to which the elongate member 14 / surface cleaning tool 12 may be directly connected. The dirt separation device 20 may also include an outlet passage member 29, best seen in Figures 7 and 8 which receives cleaned air from separator 22, and the housing 16 may include a passage member 19 (see Figure 3) which fluidly connects the outlet passage member 29 to the suction source 18. In examples, outlet passage member 29 is provided on the first cover member 23a.

As best seen in Figures 7 and 8, the dirt separation device 20 may include cooperating members 48a, 48b. The co-operating members 48a, 48b are a pair of generally elongate members connected to the outer surface of the wall 23 and extend along the length of the wall 23. The co-operating members 48a, 48b are positioned spaced apart from each other and are generally parallel to each other.

The co-operating members 48a, 48b are also configured to define respective spaces or recesses between the inner surfaces of the members 48a, 48b and the outer surface of the wall 23. Referring to Figures 10a and 10b, the portion 16a of housing 16 may include co-operating members 49a, 49b for connection with the co-operating members 48a, 48b on the dirt separation device 20 to connect the dirt separation device 20 to the housing 16. The co-operating members 49a, 49b are generally elongate members that extend widthwise across the housing 16 and define respective recesses 49'a, 49'b for receiving the co-operating members 48a, 48b of the dirt separation device 20 therein. The co-operating members 49a, 49b are also spaced apart to define a channel 51 therebetween. Co-operating members 49a, 49b are generally configured as rails. The co-operating members 49a, 49b of the housing 16 form a female connection for receiving a male connection formed by the co-operating members 48a, 48b of the dirt separation device 20. This arrangement permits relative movement of the dirt separation device 20 relative to the housing 16 whilst also maintaining a connection therebetween. In examples, the connection between the dirt separation device 20 and the housing 16 may be configured differently to provide the same or similar function. For example, other types or numbers of male and female co-operating members between the dirt separation device 20 and the housing 16 may be utilised. For example, there may be a single co-operating member provided on the dirt separation device and a single co-operating member provided on the housing 16.

In examples, with reference to Figure 5, where the separator 22 is a cyclonic separator, the cyclonic separator may include a first separator chamber 32 for separating relatively coarse dust or debris from did-laden air and the dirt collection chamber 24 may include a first dirt collection chamber 34 in communication with the first separating chamber 32. In examples, axis D of the dirt separation device is co-axial or corresponds to the axis about which the cyclonic separator 22 swirls dirt to separate dirt from the dirt-laden air.

The cyclonic separator 22 may include a shroud 36 and a second separating chamber 38 positioned generally within the shroud 36 for separating relatively fine dust or debris from the dirt-laden air cleaned by the first separating chamber 32. The second separating chamber 38 may be defined by an inner surface 39 of a frusto-conical separator 40 positioned generally within the shroud 36. The dirt collection chamber 24 may include a second dirt collection chamber 42 in communication with the second separating chamber 38. The cyclonic separator 30 may include an outlet 44 through which cleaner air exits the second separating chamber 38 to pass through the filter 21 before being exhausted to atmosphere downstream via the suction source 18. In examples, the cyclonic separator 22 may only have a first separator chamber and first dirt collection chamber. In examples, the cyclonic separator 22 may have a different form of cyclonic separation as will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art of designing cyclonic separators. In examples, there may be no second separating chamber 38 and, instead, the cyclonic separator 22 may include a plurality of second stage cyclones downstream of the first separating chamber 32 for separating relatively fine dust or debris.

With reference to Figures 6 to 8, the surface cleaning apparatus 10 includes a blocking device 50 for inhibiting movement of the dirt separation device 20 from the first state to the second state. In examples, the dirt separation device 20 includes the blocking device 50. The blocking device 50 is movable between a blocking state (best seen in figure 6), in which the blocking device 50 inhibits movement of the dirt separation device 20, and a non-blocking state, in which the blocking device 50 permits movement of the dirt separation device 20. In examples, the blocking device 50 is biased to the blocking state, e.g. by a spring, as will be described. In examples, the surface cleaning apparatus 10 includes an actuator 60 for operating the blocking device 50. In examples, the dirt separation device 20 includes the actuator 60. In examples, the actuator 60 is connected to the blocking device 50. In examples, the actuator 60 and blocking device 50 may be integrally formed as a single component.

The blocking device 50 and the actuator 60 may be realised in different forms and configurations. Examples will now be described with reference to the Figures 6 to 8. Figure 6 shows a partial cross-section of the apparatus 10 with certain component parts not shown to aid in describing the relevant features of the blocking device 50 and the actuator 60.

The blocking device 50 may be connected to the first cover member 23a. In the examples shown in the figures, a user graspable handle 70 may be connected to the first cover member 23a for handling the dirt separation device 20. This handle 70 may include the actuator 60 and the blocking device 50 connected thereto. In more detail, the handle 70 may include a first portion 72 which is graspable by the user and extends across the external face of the first cover member 23a, and a second portion 74 that extends away from the first portion 72. The first portion 72 may have a generally planar external surface that is rectangle shaped, and downwardly extending opposing walls that define an internal space for receiving a user's fingers when the user grasps the handle 70. The second portion 74 may extend away from one of the opposing walls generally downwardly and laterally. A distal end of the second portion 74 may form the blocking device 50. In more detail, the second portion 74 includes a first part 74a which extends laterally across the face of the first cover member 23a and a second part 74b connected to the end of the first part 74a which extends generally downwardly past the edge of the first cover member 23a so that the distal end / blocking member 50 is positioned away from the first cover member 23a. The second portion 74 is generally in the form of an arm. The blocking member 50 may be configured as a latch, best seen in Figure 6, which extends transversely away (shown extending upwardly in Figure 6) from the rest of the second part 74b. The blocking member 50 includes a cam surface 50' in the form of an inclined planar face. In Figure 6, the blocking member 50 is shown in blocking engagement with a formation 80 provided on the surface of the housing 16. Formation 80 is generally L-shaped and sits proud from the rest of the surface of the housing 16. Formation 80 defines a space for receiving the blocking member 50 when the blocking member 50 is in its blocking state. The foot of the L-shape terminates in a free end that forms a surface against which the cam surface 50' engages when the dirt separation device 20 is moved to its first state as will be described.

The second portion 74 may be partially covered by a plate 23'a which fits over the first cover member 23a so that first part 74a is not visible to the user whilst the plate 23'a includes a central opening through which the first portion 72 extends to permit access thereto. The plate defines an internal space relative to the first cover member 23a to permit movement of the second portion 74 therein.

In more detail, the handle 70 may be pivotally connected to the first cover member 23a so as to be movable between a rest state, e.g. a state in which it lies generally flat against the first cover member 23a, and a use state, e.g. in which it is inclined or raised with respect to the first cover member 23a. The handle 70 may be pivotally movable about an axis P. Axis P may be transverse to the direction F2 in which the dirt separation device 20 moves between its first and second states. In this example, the blocking device 50 is pivotally movable between its blocking and non-blocking states about axis P because it is formed as part of the handle 70. In other examples where the blocking device 50 is not formed as part of the handle, it may also be configured to be pivotally movable between its blocking and non-blocking states about an axis which is transverse to the direction in which the dirt separation device 20 moves between its first and second states.

In other examples, the blocking device 50 and the actuator 60 may be realised differently. For example, the blocking device 50 and actuator 60 may be separate components which may be provided as part of the housing 16 rather than as part of the dirt separation device 20. For example, the blocking device 50 may be a latch provided on the housing 16 which engages with the dirt separation device 20 to block movement of the dirt separation device 20 and the actuator 60 may be a user operable button or the like for moving the latch to a position in which it no longer blocks movement of the dirt separation device 20. In examples, one of the blocking device 50 / actuator 60 may be provided on the housing 16 and the other of the blocking device 50 / actuator 60 may be provided on the dirt separation device 20.

In examples, the blocking device 50 and actuator 60 may not be provided as part of the handle 70. For example, the actuator 60 may be operated separately from the handle 70 to cause movement of the blocking device 50 to its non-blocking state. In examples, the blocking device 50, actuator 60 and handle 70 may be separate component parts that are operably connected so that movement of the handle 70 effects operation of the actuator 60 to move the blocking device 50.

Operation of the surface cleaning apparatus 10 will now be described with the dirt separation device 20 starting in its first state and docked in the housing 16 as shown in figures 3, 4 and 11a. The user may want to place the dirt separation device 20 into its second state to, for example, empty the dirt collection chamber 24, or otherwise service the dirt separation device 20, for example, to access the filter 21 for maintenance or replacement thereof.

In the first state, the passage member 27 is connected to the passage member 26 5 and the outlet passage member 29 is connected to the passage member 19. The co-operating members 48a,b and 49a,b are in engagement to couple the dirt separation device 20 to the housing 16. The blocking device 50 is in its blocking state shown in Figure 6 positioned to one side of the formation 80 and prevents movement of the dirt separation device 20 towards its second state because, if 10 any such movement were attempted, the blocking device 50 would press against the formation 80 thereby blocking any movement therepast.

The user must operate the handle 70 to move the blocking device 50 to its non-blocking state. This involves the user grasping the handle 70 about the first portion 72 and moving the handle 70 so that it pivots about axis P upwardly away from the first cover member 23a. This causes the blocking member 50, which is connected to the handle 70, to similarly move until it is no longer received by the formation 80. The user may now pull the handle 70 causing the dirt separation device 20 to move. Figures 11a, and 11b show the respective first and second states between which the dirt separation device 20 moves in this operation. The co-operating members 48a,b move relative to the co-operating members 49a,b and slide through the recesses 49'a, 49'b. The dirt separation device 20 moves linearly along direction F2. Continued movement of the dirt separation device 20 causes it to reach its second state, shown in Figure 11 b. In this state, the dirt separation device 20 is removed and separated from the housing 16. The user may now handle the dirt separation device 20, e.g. open the second cover member 23b to empty the dirt collection chamber 24, or open the first cover member 23a, as desired.

When the user has handled the dirt separation device 20 as required, the user must dock the dirt separation device 20 to the housing 16 in its first state before using the surface cleaning apparatus 10. In order to do so, the user must align the dirt separation device 20 relative to the housing 16 so that the co-operating members 48a, 48b are aligned to the recesses 49'a, 49'b. The user then pushes the dirt separation device 20 in an opposite direction to direction F2 causing the co-operating members 48a,b and 49a,b to be coupled and the dirt separation device 20 slides into the recess defined by portion 16a of the housing 16.

Referring to Figure 6, this movement continues until the cam surface 50' of the blocking member 50 contacts the formation 80. Due to the cam surface 50' being inclined, as the dirt separation device 20 is pushed further, the blocking member 50 is pivoted towards its unblocking position whilst it moves further towards the formation 80 until the blocking member 50 moves underneath the formation 80.

The blocking member 50 is biased to its blocking position and so, once it is underneath the space defined by the formation 80, the blocking member 50 pivots upwardly into the space to return to its blocking position shown in Figure 6. As the dirt separation device 20 is brought to its first state, the passage members 27 and 26 come into contact to form a sealed fluid connection therebetween, and the passage members 29 and 19 similarly come into contact to form a sealed fluid connection therebetween. The surface cleaning apparatus 10 is now ready to use.

Advantageously, the described arrangements may permit the dirt separation device 20 to be moved in a single movement along a linear path, e.g. along a generally horizontal path, to remove it from the housing 16 compared to prior art arrangements where a dirt collection unit or separation device is removed by lifting it upwardly or pulling it downwardly, or by a combination of movements, which requires more effort and/or may be more difficult for the user potentially causing the user to inadvertently drop the dirt collection unit or separation device.

Furthermore, moving the dirt separation device 20 transversely with respect to the housing 16 means that the dirt separation device 20 is retained relatively close to the user during this process.

In arrangements where the dirt separation device 20 incorporates the first cover member 23a, the dirt separation device 20 is effectively removed with the space S substantially closed and/or the filter 21 covered meaning that any dirt within the device 20 is less likely to soil the user or the surrounding environment when the dirt separation device 20 is removed. In such example arrangements, the dirt separation device 20 may move longitudinally, e.g. so that direction F2 is parallel to axis H, and/or be orientated longitudinally along the housing 16, e.g. so that axis D is parallel to axis H. In these arrangements the respective passage members of the did separation device 20 / housing 16 will be configured and routed differently to accommodate these components as will be readily appreciated.

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

The invention may also broadly consist in the parts, elements, steps, examples and/or features referred to or indicated in the specification individually or collectively in any and all combinations of two or more said parts, elements, steps, examples and/or features. In particular, one or more features in any of the embodiments described herein may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiment(s) described herein.

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

Although certain example embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited solely to these embodiments. The claims are to be construed literally, purposively, and/or to encompass equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMSA surface cleaning apparatus for cleaning a surface including: a housing supporting: a suction source including a motor for rotating a fan about an axis (A); and a dirt separation device having first and second opposite ends, the dirt separation device including a space having a separator for separating dirt from dirt-laden air and a dirt collection chamber for receiving separated dirt; a passage member fluidly connected to the dirt separation device for receiving dirt-laden air, wherein dirt-laden air flows in a first direction (F1) through the passage member during use and the passage member is fluidly connectable or connected to a surface cleaning tool and/or an elongate member having an elongate axis to which a surface cleaning tool is fluidly connectable or is connected; wherein the dirt separation device is slidably connected to the housing for movement of the dirt separation device relative to the housing in a second direction (F2) which is transverse to the first direction (F1) from a first state, in which the dirt separation device is connected to and supported by the housing, and a second state, in which the dirt separation device is detached and separated fromthe housing, and wherein the dirt separation device slides in the second direction (F2) from the first state to the second state.
2. A surface cleaning apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein the dirt separation device is connected to the housing to move linearly between its first and second states.
3. A surface cleaning apparatus for cleaning a surface including: a housing supporting: a suction source including a motor for rotating a fan about an axis (A); a dirt separation device having first and second opposite ends, the dirt separation device including: a space including a separator for separating dirt from dirt-laden air and a dirt collection chamber for receiving separated dirt; a first cover member provided at the first end moveable between a closed position in which access to the space is inhibited, and an open position in which access to the space is permitted; and a second cover member provided at the second end moveable between a closed position in which access to the dirt collection chamber is inhibited and an open position in which access to the dirt collection chamber is permitted; a passage member fluidly connected to the dirt separation device for receiving dirt-laden air, wherein dirt-laden air flows in a first direction (F1) through the passage member during use and the passage member is fluidly connectable or connected to a surface cleaning tool and/or an elongate member having an elongate axis to which a surface cleaning tool is fluidly connectable or is connected; wherein the dirt separation device is slidably connected to the housing to permit movement of the dirt separation device between a first state, in which the dirt separation device is connected to and supported by the housing, and a second state, in which the dirt separation device is detached and separated from the housing.
4. A surface cleaning apparatus according to Claim 1 or 2 wherein the dirt separation device includes: a first cover member provided at the first end moveable between a closed position in which access to the space is inhibited, and an open position in which access to the space is permitted; and/or a second cover member provided at the second end moveable between a closed position in which access to the dirt collection chamber is inhibited and an open position in which access to the dirt collection chamber is permitted. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.
A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the surface cleaning apparatus includes a blocking device for inhibiting movement of the dirt separation device from the first state to the second state and optionally or preferably the did separation device includes the blocking device.
A surface cleaning apparatus according to Claim 5 wherein the blocking device is movable between a blocking state, in which the blocking device inhibits movement of the dirt separation device, and a non-blocking state, in which the blocking device permits movement of the dirt separation device.
A surface cleaning apparatus according to Claim 6 wherein the blocking device is biased to the blocking state.
A surface cleaning apparatus according to Claim 5, 6 or 7 including an actuator for operating the blocking device.
A surface cleaning apparatus according to Claim 8 wherein the dirt separation device includes the actuator, and optionally or preferably the actuator is connected to the blocking device, and optionally or preferably the actuator and blocking device are integrally formed as a single component.
A surface cleaning apparatus according to any one of Claims 6 to 9 wherein the blocking device is pivotally movable between its blocking and non-blocking states and optionally or preferably the blocking device is pivotally movable about an axis P which is transverse to the direction in which the dirt separation device moves between its first and second states.
A surface cleaning apparatus according to any one of Claims 6 to 10 when directly or indirectly dependent on Claim 3 or 4 wherein the blocking device is connected to or provided by the first cover member.
A surface cleaning apparatus according to any one of Claims 8 to 11 when directly or indirectly dependent on Claim 3 or 4 wherein the actuator is connected to or provided by the first cover member.
13. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any one of Claims 3 to 12 wherein dirt separation device includes a user graspable handle connected to the first cover member.
14. A surface cleaning apparatus according to Claim 13 when directly or indirectly dependent on Claims 5 to 12, wherein the user graspable handle is connected to the blocking member and/or forms the actuator, and optionally or preferably the user graspable handle may be operated by a user to move the blocking member to its non-blocking state.
15. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the dirt separation device and the housing include respective co-operating members and wherein the co-operating members provide the connection between the dirt separation device and the housing, optionally or preferably guide the did separation device to move linearly or slide as it moves between its first and second states.
16. A surface cleaning apparatus according to Claim 15, wherein first and second ends of the dirt separation device are connected by a wall and the wall includes at least one co-operating member, optionally or preferably two cooperating members, and/or wherein the co-operating member(s) on the dirt separation device are one of male or female co-operating member(s) and the co-operating member(a) on the housing are the other of male or female co-operating member(s).
17. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the dirt separation device includes an outlet passage member which receives cleaned air from the dirt separation device and the housing includes a further passage member which fluidly connects the outlet passage member to the suction source.
18. A surface cleaning apparatus according to Claim 16 when directly or indirectly dependent on Claim 3 or 4 wherein the first cover member includes the outlet passage member.
19. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim including one or more or all of: a) wherein the dirt separation device has an axis (D) which intersects the first and second ends, and optionally or preferably axis (D) is parallel to axis (A).b) the dirt separation device moves in a direction which is parallel to axis (A) between its first and second states and/or c) the dirt separation device is orientated generally horizontally or parallel to the surface being cleaned during use.
20. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim including a battery for providing power to operate the suction source, wherein the battery has first and second opposite ends, and a lengthwise axis (C) defined by the direction in which the battery extends between the first and second ends, wherein the dirt separation device moves transverse to axis (C) between its first and second states.
21. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any one of Claims 3 to 20 wherein the dirt separation device moves linearly between its first and second states.
22. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the passage member is connectable to a surface cleaning tool or elongate member, and/or the separator is a cyclonic separator.
23. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the housing includes the passage member and/or the housing supports a user graspable handle.
24. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim including: a surface cleaning tool; and an elongate member having an elongate axis, said elongate member fluidly connecting the surface cleaning tool to the dirt separation device and including a passage for carrying dirt-laden air from the surface cleaning tool thereto.
25. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the surface cleaning apparatus is a handheld cleaner.