JP2024053939A - Dust collector - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To suppress heating of a suction motor even when the suction motor is driven with the suction port covered by a cap. [Solution] A dust collector includes a main housing, a suction tube having a suction port that opens to the inside of the main housing, a motor assembly including a blower fan and a suction motor that rotates the blower fan and generates suction force at the suction port, and a cap having a flange portion having an opposing surface that faces an end face of the suction tube, and a tubular portion including an insertion portion that is inserted into the suction port. The cap has a rib protruding from the opposing surface. [Selected Figure] Fig. 19

Description

The technology disclosed in this specification relates to dust collectors.

In the technical field related to dust collectors, vacuum cleaners equipped with air intake covers, such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1, are known.

Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 63-064338

If the fan motor (suction motor) is driven while the air intake (suction port) is sealed with the air intake cover (cap), the fan motor may overheat.

The technology disclosed in this specification aims to prevent the suction motor from heating up even when the suction motor is driven with the suction port covered by a cap.

This specification discloses a dust collector. The dust collector may include a main housing, a suction tube having a suction port that opens to the inside of the main housing, a motor assembly that includes a blower fan disposed inside the main housing and a suction motor that rotates the blower fan and generates suction force at the suction port, and a cap having a flange portion having an opposing surface that faces the end face of the suction tube and a tubular portion that includes an insertion portion that is inserted into the suction port. The cap may have a rib protruding from the opposing surface.

The technology disclosed in this specification prevents the suction motor from heating up even when the suction motor is driven with the suction port covered by a cap.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a dust collector according to an embodiment, seen from the upper left side. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the dust collector according to the embodiment, seen from the lower left side. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the dust collector according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right side. FIG. 4 is a left side view showing the dust collector according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a front view showing the dust collector according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a rear view showing the dust collector according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a dust collector according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a dust collector according to an embodiment. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing the tank cover, the inner cover, and the filter unit according to the embodiment, as viewed from the upper left side. FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing the tank cover, the inner cover, and the filter unit according to the embodiment, as viewed from the upper right side. FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing the tank cover, the inner cover, and the filter unit according to the embodiment, as viewed from the lower right side. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a state in which a cowling and a separator are removed from the dust collector according to the embodiment. FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a cowling is removed from the dust collector according to the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a gas flow state in the first exhaust flow path according to the embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a gas flow state in the second exhaust flow path according to the embodiment. FIG. 16 is a perspective view from the left front side showing the dust collector in a state in which the cap according to the embodiment is attached to the suction tube. FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing the cap according to the embodiment, seen from the left front side. FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the cap according to the embodiment, seen from the right rear side. FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing a portion of the cap according to the embodiment, seen from the right rear side. FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of a part of the cap attached to the suction cylinder according to the embodiment. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a part of the cleaning device according to the embodiment. FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a state of the filter when the first valve is in the second state and the second valve is in the third state according to the embodiment. FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a state of the filter when the first valve is in the first state and the second valve is in the fourth state according to the embodiment. FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing a dust collector connected to the power tool according to the embodiment. FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing the power tool and the dust collector according to the embodiment. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the operation of the power tool and the dust collector according to the embodiment. FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the operation of the dust collector according to the embodiment.

In one or more embodiments, the dust collector may include a main housing, a suction tube having a suction port that opens to the inside of the main housing, a motor assembly that includes a blower fan disposed inside the main housing and a suction motor that rotates the blower fan and generates suction force at the suction port, and a cap having a flange portion having an opposing surface that faces the end face of the suction tube and a tubular portion including an insertion portion that is inserted into the suction port. The cap may have a rib protruding from the opposing surface.

In the above configuration, contact between the end face of the suction tube and the rib forms a gap between the end face of the suction tube and the opposing surface of the flange. Even if the suction port is covered with a cap, the suction port is not sealed, so heating of the suction motor is suppressed even if the suction motor is driven with the suction port covered with a cap. In addition, by covering the suction port with a cap, dust sucked into the dust collector is suppressed from leaking out of the dust collector through the suction port.

In one or more embodiments, when the end face of the suction tube and the rib are in contact with each other, a gap is formed between the end face of the suction tube and the opposing surface, and the dimension of the gap in the circumferential direction of the cap may be larger than the dimension of the rib.

The above configuration creates a gap of the correct size.

In one or more embodiments, the opposing surface may be ring-shaped, and the ribs may be provided at intervals in the circumferential direction of the opposing surface.

In the above configuration, the gap is properly formed, and the suction port is prevented from becoming sealed even when it is covered with a cap.

In one or more embodiments, the ribs may be evenly spaced apart.

In the above configuration, the ribs contact the end face of the suction tube at equal intervals, preventing the cap from being attached to the suction tube in an angled position.

In one or more embodiments, at least three ribs may be provided.

The above configuration prevents the cap from being attached to the suction tube in an inclined position.

In one or more embodiments, the ribs may be provided to extend radially from the opposing surfaces.

The above configuration stabilizes contact between the end face of the suction tube and the rib.

In one or more embodiments, the radially inner end of the rib may be located radially inward from the opposing surface.

In the above configuration, the cap is stably supported on the suction tube via the ribs.

In one or more embodiments, the cylindrical portion may include a non-insertion portion that is disposed radially inward from the opposing surface and that is disposed outside the suction port when the insertion portion is inserted into the suction port. The radially inner end of the rib may be connected to the non-insertion portion.

The above configuration prevents the cap from losing strength.

In one or more embodiments, the tubular portion may have a slit.

In the above configuration, even when the cylindrical portion is inserted into the suction port, the slits prevent the suction port from being sealed.

In one or more embodiments, the slit may be formed to extend axially along the tubular portion.

In the above configuration, even when the cylindrical portion is inserted into the suction port, the slits prevent the suction port from being sealed.

In one or more embodiments, the slit may be formed from the distal end of the insertion portion to the proximal end of the non-insertion portion.

In the above configuration, even when the cylindrical portion is inserted into the suction port, the slits prevent the suction port from being sealed.

In one or more embodiments, the slit may be formed between a pair of adjacent ribs.

The above configuration prevents the cap from losing strength.

In one or more embodiments, the slits may be formed between each pair of adjacent ribs.

The above configuration prevents the cap from losing strength.

In one or more embodiments, if the maximum vacuum level when the suction motor is driven with the suction port sealed is set to 100%, the gaps and slits may be determined so that the maximum vacuum level is 90% or more and 97% or less.

The above configuration both prevents the suction motor from overheating and prevents dust from leaking from the dust collector.

Below, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments. The components of the embodiments described below can be combined as appropriate. Also, some components may not be used.

In the embodiment, the positional relationship of each part is explained using the terms "front," "rear," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom." These terms indicate the relative position or direction based on the center of the dust collector 1.

[Dust collector]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment from the upper left side. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment from the lower left side. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment from the upper right side. FIG. 4 is a left side view of the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a front view of the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a rear view of the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment, which corresponds to the cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 5. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment, which corresponds to the cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 4.

In the embodiment, the dust collector 1 is a wet/dry dust collector that can suck in not only gas but also liquid. An example of the gas is air. An example of the liquid is water. The dust collector 1 may be a dry dust collector.

As shown in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, the dust collector 1 includes a suction tube 2, a tank 3, an inlet cover 4, a cap 5, wheels 6, a main body housing 7, a hook 8, a motor assembly 9, an inner cover 10, a filter unit 11, a switch base 12, a switch button 13, a handle 14, and a controller 15.

The suction tube 2 sucks in at least one of gas and liquid. The suction tube 2 has a suction port 16. The suction port 16 is located at the front end of the suction tube 2. The suction tube 2 including the suction port 16 is located at the front of the tank 3. The suction port 16 faces forward. A dust collection hose 17 is connected to the suction tube 2. The suction port 16 leads to the inside of the main housing 7 via the tank 3.

The tank 3 has an internal space that contains dust sucked in through the suction port 16. The suction tube 2 including the suction port 16 is provided in the tank 3. The dust is sucked in through the suction port 16 together with either or both of gas and liquid, and then flows into the internal space of the tank 3. When liquid is sucked in through the suction port 16, the tank 3 stores the liquid sucked in through the suction port 16. The liquid is stored in the internal space of the tank 3.

The inlet cover 4 is disposed around the suction tube 2. The inlet cover 4 is disposed so as to cover the front of the tank 3. A handle portion 18 is provided at the bottom of the inlet cover 4. A space 19 is formed between the handle portion 18 and the tank 3. A user can hold the handle portion 18 from below with their hand, for example, by inserting their fingertips into the space 19. The user can lift or pull the dust collector 1 while holding the handle portion 18 in their hand.

The cap 5 is positioned to cover the suction port 16. When the dust collection hose 17 is removed from the suction tube 2, the cap 5 covers the suction port 16, thereby preventing dust contained in the internal space of the tank 3 from leaking out of the tank 3 through the suction port 16.

The wheels 6 are attached to the bottom of the tank 3. The wheels 6 support the tank 3 so that it can move. The wheels 6 include two swivel wheels 6F attached to the front part of the bottom of the tank 3, and two fixed wheels 6R attached to the rear part of the bottom of the tank 3. The tank 3 moves across the surface to be cleaned using the wheels 6. A user of the dust collector 1 can move the dust collector 1 forward across the surface to be cleaned by pulling the dust collector 1 forward via the dust collection hose 17.

The main body housing 7 is supported by the tank 3. The main body housing 7 is disposed above the tank 3. The main body housing 7 includes a tank cover 20, a separator 21, a cowling 22, and a battery cover 23.

The tank cover 20 is disposed above the tank 3. The tank cover 20 is disposed so as to cover an opening provided at the upper end of the tank 3. The separator 21 is disposed above the tank cover 20. The tank cover 20 and the separator 21 are fixed together with screws. The cowling 22 is disposed above the separator 21. The separator 21 and the cowling 22 are fixed together with screws. The battery cover 23 is disposed in front of the cowling 22.

The hooks 8 secure the tank 3 to the main housing 7. The hooks 8 are provided on both the left and right sides of the tank 3.

The tank 3 has a hose hook 24 that supports the dust collection hose 17. The hose hook 24 is provided at each of the right and left rear ends of the tank 3. The dust collection hose 17 is a flexible hose and can bend. When the dust collection hose 17 is not connected to the suction port 16, it is wound around the tank 3. The hose hook 24 supports the dust collection hose 17 wound around the tank 3 from below. In addition, a dust collection pipe 25 may be connected to the dust collection hose 17. The separator 21 has a pipe support portion 26 that supports the dust collection pipe 25. The pipe support portion 26 is provided at each of the right and left rear ends of the separator 21. The pipe support portion 26 includes a convex portion 26A into which the dust collection pipe 25 is inserted and a support surface 26B that supports the outer circumferential surface of the dust collection pipe 25. In addition, the separator 21 has a cap holder 27 that holds the cap 5. The cap holder 27 is provided on the rear surface of the separator 21. The cap holder 27 includes a pair of clamps 27A that clamp the cap 5 from the left and right. A support 28 is provided on the rear of the tank 3. For example, when removing dust or a garbage bag contained inside the tank 3 from the tank 3, the user may tilt the tank 3 so that the rear surface of the tank 3 faces downward. The support 28 supports the tank 3 when the tank 3 is tilted. The support 28 supports the tilted tank 3 from below by contacting a predetermined support surface (e.g., a surface to be cleaned). Also, as shown in FIG. 2, a handle 3A is provided on the lower part of the rear of the tank 3. The user can insert his or her hand into the handle 3A to lift or pull the dust collector 1.

The motor assembly 9 is disposed inside the main housing 7. The motor assembly 9 generates a suction force at the suction port 16 that leads to the inside of the main housing 7. The motor assembly 9 has a blower fan 29 and a cooling fan 30 disposed inside the main housing 7, a suction motor 31 that rotates each of the blower fan 29 and the cooling fan 30, a motor housing 32, a base 33A, a fan base 33B, and a fan cover 34. In the embodiment, the motor assembly 9 is supported by each of the tank cover 20 and the separator 21. The tank cover 20 supports the motor assembly 9 from below. The separator 21 supports the motor assembly 9 from above.

The suction motor 31 is an inner rotor type brushless motor. The suction motor 31 generates power to rotate each of the blower fan 29 and the cooling fan 30. The suction motor 31 has a stator 31A, a rotor 31B arranged inside the stator 31A, and a rotor shaft 31C fixed to the rotor 31B. The rotor shaft 31C extends in the vertical direction. The rotation axis of the rotor shaft 31C extends in the vertical direction. The rotor shaft 31C is rotatably supported by bearings 31D and 31E. The bearing 31D rotatably supports the upper part of the rotor shaft 31C. The bearing 31E rotatably supports the lower part of the rotor shaft 31C.

The blower fan 29 and the cooling fan 30 are fixed to the rotor shaft 31C. The blower fan 29 and the cooling fan 30 are rotated by the suction motor 31. When the rotor shaft 31C of the suction motor 31 rotates, the blower fan 29 and the cooling fan 30 rotate. The blower fan 29 generates a suction force at the suction port 16. The cooling fan 30 generates an airflow for cooling the suction motor 31. The blower fan 29 is fixed to the lower end of the rotor shaft 31C. The cooling fan 30 is fixed to a part of the rotor shaft 31C between the lower end of the stator 31A and the blower fan 29. The blower fan 29 is a centrifugal fan. The cooling fan 30 is a centrifugal fan. The outer diameter of the blower fan 29 is larger than the outer diameter of the cooling fan 30.

The motor housing 32 accommodates the suction motor 31 and the cooling fan 30 inside the main housing 7. The motor housing 32 supports the suction motor 31. The motor housing 32 supports each of the bearings 31D and 31E. The motor housing 32 is cylindrical. The motor housing 32 has a motor intake port 32A and a motor exhaust port 32B. The motor intake port 32A is provided at the upper end of the motor housing 32. The motor exhaust port 32B is provided at the lower part of the side of the motor housing 32. Gas around the motor housing 32 can flow into the internal space of the motor housing 32 through the motor intake port 32A. Gas in the internal space of the motor housing 32 can flow out to the periphery of the motor housing 32 through the motor exhaust port 32B.

The base 33A is disposed around the suction motor 31 and the motor housing 32. The base 33A supports the motor housing 32. The base 33A guides the gas discharged from the motor exhaust port 32B. The fan base 33B is disposed around the base 33A. The fan base 33B supports the base 33A. The fan base 33B is made of a synthetic resin such as polycarbonate resin.

The fan cover 34 is arranged so as to cover at least a portion of the blower fan 29. The fan cover 34 is connected to the fan base 33B. At least a portion of the fan cover 34 is arranged around the blower fan 29. At least a portion of the fan cover 34 is arranged below the blower fan 29. The fan cover 34 has a fan intake port 34A and a fan exhaust port 34B. The fan intake port 34A is provided at the bottom of the fan cover 34. The fan exhaust port 34B is provided on the side of the fan cover 34.

The inner cover 10 is supported by the tank cover 20. The inner cover 10 is disposed below the tank cover 20. The inner cover 10 is fixed to the tank cover 20. The inner cover 10 is disposed between the tank 3 and the tank cover 20. The inner cover 10 has a communication port 35. A mesh portion 36 is provided on the inner cover 10. The communication port 35 is provided on the mesh portion 36. The mesh portion 36 includes a first mesh portion 36L and a second mesh portion 36R. The first mesh portion 36L and the second mesh portion 36R are disposed in the left-right direction. The communication port 35 includes a first communication port 35L provided on the first mesh portion 36L and a second communication port 35R provided on the second mesh portion 36R.

The filter unit 11 has a filter 37 and a filter holder 38 that holds the filter 37. The filter 37 is disposed between the suction port 16 and the blower fan 29. The filter 37 is disposed between the tank 3 and the motor assembly 9. The communication port 35 is disposed between the tank 3 and the blower fan 29. The filter 37 is disposed between the communication port 35 and the blower fan 29. The filter 37 collects foreign matter from the air that flows from the internal space of the tank 3 into the motor assembly 9. In the embodiment, the filter holder 38 of the filter unit 11 is detachable from the inner cover 10.

Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view from the upper left showing the tank cover 20, inner cover 10, and filter unit 11 according to the embodiment. Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view from the upper right showing the tank cover 20, inner cover 10, and filter unit 11 according to the embodiment. Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view from the lower right showing the tank cover 20, inner cover 10, and filter unit 11 according to the embodiment.

The filter unit 11 has a filter 37 and a filter holder 38 that holds the filter 37. The communication port 35 is disposed between the tank 3 and the filter 37. The filter 37 is disposed between the communication port 35 and the blower fan 29. The filter 37 includes a first filter 37L disposed between the blower fan 29 and the first communication port 35L, and a second filter 37R disposed between the blower fan 29 and the second communication port 35R. Each of the first filter 37L and the second filter 37R has a pre-filter 37A, an intermediate filter 37B, and a main filter 37C. The pre-filter 37A faces the internal space of the tank 3. The pre-filter 37A collects foreign matter from the air supplied from the tank 3. The intermediate filter 37B collects foreign matter from the air that has passed through the pre-filter 37A. The main filter 37C collects foreign matter from the air that has passed through the intermediate filter 37B.

The filter holder 38 is attached to and detached from the inner cover 10. The filter holder 38 has a holding portion 38H that holds the filter 37, a latch lever 38A provided at the front end of the holding portion 38H, recesses 38B provided on the left and right sides of the latch lever 38A, a pair of hook portions 38C provided at the rear end of the holding portion 38H, and a handle portion 38D provided at the rear end of 38H.

The inner cover 10 has an engagement portion 10A to which the latch lever 38A is hooked, a protrusion 10B to be inserted into a recess 38B, and a claw portion 10C to which the hook portion 38C is hooked. After the hook portion 38C is hooked onto the claw portion 10C with the protrusion 10B inserted into the recess 38B, the latch lever 38A is engaged with the engagement portion 10A. This connects the filter unit 11 to the inner cover 10. By operating the latch lever 38A, the engagement between the latch lever 38A and the engagement portion 10A is released, and the filter unit 11 is removed from the inner cover 10.

The bottom surface of the filter 37 faces the internal space of the tank 3. The top surface of the filter 37 faces the communication port 35 of the mesh portion 36. The tank cover 20 has a recess 20B in which the fan cover 34 is disposed. A vent 20A is provided on the bottom surface of the recess 20B. The fan intake port 34A of the fan cover 34 and the vent 20A overlap. The tank cover 20 also has a tubular portion 20C that protrudes downward from the periphery of the vent 20A. The inner cover 10 has a recess 10D in which the tubular portion 20C is disposed.

The tank cover 20 is provided with an air passage 71 through which air passes from the communication port 35 toward the ventilation port 20A. The air passage 71 includes a first air passage 71L provided between the first filter 37L and the blower fan 29, and a second air passage 71R provided between the second filter 37R and the blower fan 29. Air passing from the first communication port 35L toward the ventilation port 20A passes through the first air passage 71L. Air passing from the second communication port 35R toward the ventilation port 20A passes through the second air passage 71R.

When the blower fan 29 rotates, a suction force is generated at the suction port 16. The gas sucked into the internal space of the tank 3 from the suction port 16 passes through the filter 37 and then flows into the communication port 35. As shown in FIG. 10, a flow path 10E is provided on the upper surface of the tank cover 20, connecting the communication port 35 and the recess 10D. The air that passes through the communication port 35 passes through the ventilation path 71, flows through the flow path 10E, and then flows into the fan intake port 34A through the ventilation port 20A. The gas that passes through the fan intake port 34A flows into the blower fan 29. The air that flows into the blower fan 29 is discharged to the periphery of the fan cover 34 through the fan exhaust port 34B provided in the fan cover 34.

When the cooling fan 30 rotates, the gas around the motor housing 32 flows into the internal space of the motor housing 32 through the motor intake port 32A. The gas that flows into the internal space of the motor housing 32 cools the suction motor 31. After cooling the suction motor 31, the gas is discharged to the surroundings of the motor housing 32 through the motor exhaust port 32B.

The switch base 12 is disposed at the front of the main body housing 7. The switch base 12 is plate-shaped. The switch base 12 is long in the vertical direction. The switch base 12 has a main power switch 39.

The switch button 13 is located above the switch base 12 at the front of the main housing 7. The switch button 13 is rotatably supported on the main housing 7. When the main power switch 39 is turned ON, the suction motor 31 is switched between being driven and being stopped by operating the switch button 13.

The handle 14 is rotatably supported on the upper part of the main body housing 7. The handle 14 is positioned rearward of the switch button 13. A user of the dust collector 1 can carry the dust collector 1 while holding the handle 14.

The controller 15 includes a computer system. The controller 15 outputs a control signal for controlling the electronic devices mounted on the dust collector 1. The electronic devices include a suction motor 31. The controller 15 outputs a control signal for controlling the suction motor 31. The controller 15 includes a control board on which multiple electronic components are mounted. Examples of electronic components mounted on the control board include a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or storage, a volatile memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a transistor, a capacitor, and a resistor.

Figure 12 is a perspective view showing the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment with the cowling 22 and separator 21 removed. Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment with the cowling 22 removed.

As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the tank cover 20 has a battery chamber 41 in which the battery pack 40 is disposed. A battery mounting section in which the battery pack 40 is mounted is provided on the bottom surface of the battery chamber 41.

An exhaust flow path 50 is provided inside the main housing 7, through which gas discharged from the fan exhaust port 34B of the motor assembly 9 flows. A plurality of exhaust flow paths 50 are provided in the vertical direction inside the main housing 7. In the embodiment, the exhaust flow path 50 includes a first exhaust flow path 51 and a second exhaust flow path 52 provided above the first exhaust flow path 51. In the horizontal plane, at least a portion of the first exhaust flow path 51 and the second exhaust flow path 52 overlap.

In addition, a communication port 53 that connects the first exhaust flow path 51 and the second exhaust flow path 52 is provided inside the main housing 7. The communication port 53 is provided so as to connect the left end of the first exhaust flow path 51 and the left end of the second exhaust flow path 52. In the embodiment, the communication port 53 is rectangular.

The first exhaust flow path 51 is defined by the tank cover 20 and the separator 21. The second exhaust flow path 52 is defined by the separator 21 and the cowling 22.

The tank cover 20 has a first cover plate portion 43 that covers the tank 3, and a first guide plate portion 44 that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the first cover plate portion 43. The separator 21 has a second cover plate portion 45 that covers the tank cover 20, and a second guide plate portion 46 that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the second cover plate portion 45.

The first exhaust flow path 51 is defined by the upper surface of the first cover plate portion 43, the guide surface of the first guide plate portion 44, and the lower surface of the second cover plate portion 45. The guide surface of the first guide plate portion 44 faces the first exhaust flow path 51. In the embodiment, a sound absorbing member 44A is disposed on the guide surface of the first guide plate portion 44. The second exhaust flow path 52 is defined by the upper surface of the second cover plate portion 45, the guide surface of the second guide plate portion 46, and the lower surface of the cowling 22. The guide surface of the second guide plate portion 46 faces the second exhaust flow path 52. The communication port 53 includes a through port penetrating the lower and upper surfaces of the second cover plate portion 45 of the separator 21.

In the embodiment, when the wheels 6 are placed on a surface to be cleaned that is parallel to a horizontal plane, the upper surface of the first cover plate portion 43, the upper surface of the second cover plate portion 45, and the upper surface of the second cover plate portion 45 are each substantially parallel. The guide surface of the first guide plate portion 44 and the guide surface of the second guide plate portion 46 are each substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

The second exhaust flow path 52 is connected to an exhaust port 42 that leads to the outside of the main housing 7. The exhaust port 42 is provided on the rear surface of the separator 21. A sound absorbing member 42A is provided in the exhaust port 42.

14 is a diagram showing the flow state of gas in the first exhaust flow path 51 according to the embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the flow state of gas in the second exhaust flow path 52 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 14, the gas discharged from the fan exhaust port 34B of the motor assembly 9 flows through the first exhaust flow path 51. In at least a part of the first exhaust flow path 51, the gas flows from the right side to the left side. The gas that flows through the first exhaust flow path 51 rises through the communication port 53 and flows into the second exhaust flow path 52. As shown in FIG. 15, the air that flows from the first exhaust flow path 51 to the second exhaust flow path 52 through the communication port 53 flows through the second exhaust flow path 52 and is then discharged from the exhaust port 42. In at least a part of the second exhaust flow path 52, the gas flows from the left side to the right side. The direction in which the gas flows in the first exhaust flow path 51 is opposite to the direction in which the gas flows in the second exhaust flow path 52.

The area of the communication port 53 is 1/2 or less of the maximum cross-sectional area of the first exhaust flow path 51. The area of the communication port 53 refers to the area of the communication port 53 in a direction parallel to the horizontal plane when the wheel 6 is placed on the cleaning target surface parallel to the horizontal plane. The cross-sectional area of the first exhaust flow path 51 refers to the area of the first exhaust flow path 51 in a plane perpendicular to each of the upper surface of the first cover plate portion 43 and the guide surface of the first guide plate portion 44 when the wheel 6 is placed on the cleaning target surface parallel to the horizontal plane. The maximum cross-sectional area of the first exhaust flow path 51 refers to the maximum cross-sectional area of each part in the air flow direction of the first exhaust flow path 51. In the embodiment, since the sound absorbing member 44A is arranged on the guide surface of the first guide plate portion 44, the cross-sectional area of the first exhaust flow path 51 includes the area of the first exhaust flow path 51 in a plane perpendicular to each of the upper surface of the first cover plate portion 43 and the guide surface of the sound absorbing member 44A when the wheel 6 is placed on the cleaning target surface parallel to the horizontal plane. The guide surface of the sound absorbing member 44A faces the first exhaust flow path 51.

[cap]
Fig. 16 is a perspective view from the left front side of the dust collector 1 in a state in which the cap 5 according to the embodiment is attached to the suction tube 2. Fig. 17 is a perspective view from the left front side of the cap 5 according to the embodiment. Fig. 18 is a perspective view from the right rear side of the cap 5 according to the embodiment. Fig. 19 is a perspective view from the right rear side of a portion of the cap 5 according to the embodiment. Fig. 20 is an enlarged view of a portion of the cap 5 attached to the suction tube 2 according to the embodiment.

The cap 5 has a flange portion 60, a cylindrical portion 61, and a handle portion 62. The flange portion 60 has a substantially circular outer shape. The cylindrical portion 61 is provided so as to protrude rearward from the center of the flange portion 60. The cylindrical portion 61 is disposed radially inward of the flange portion 60 relative to the outer circumferential surface of the flange portion 60. The rear portion of the cylindrical portion 61 is an insertion portion 63 that is inserted into the suction port 16. The front portion of the cylindrical portion 61 is a non-insertion portion 64 that is not inserted into the suction port 16. The handle portion 62 protrudes radially outward from a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the flange portion 60.

The flange portion 60 has an opposing surface 65 that faces the front end surface 2A of the suction tube 2. The cap 5 has a rib 66 that protrudes rearward from the opposing surface 65. The amount of protrusion of the rib 66 from the opposing surface 65 is, for example, 1 mm. The opposing surface 65 is ring-shaped. The rib 66 is provided so as to extend in the radial direction of the opposing surface 65. A plurality of the ribs 66 are provided at intervals in the circumferential direction of the opposing surface 65. At least three ribs 66 are provided. In an embodiment, twelve ribs 66 are provided at intervals in the circumferential direction. In an embodiment, the plurality of ribs 66 are provided at equal intervals.

The radially inner end of the rib 66 is disposed radially inward from the opposing surface 65. That is, the rib 66 protrudes radially inward from the radially inner end of the opposing surface 65. The non-inserted portion 64 of the cylindrical portion 61 is disposed radially inward from the opposing surface 65. The non-inserted portion 64 is disposed outside the suction port 16 when the insertion portion 63 is inserted into the suction port 16. The radially outer end 63A of the insertion portion 63 protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the non-inserted portion 64. The radially outer end 63A of the insertion portion 63 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the suction tube 2. The radially inner end of the rib 66 is connected to the non-inserted portion 64.

The cylindrical portion 61 has a slit 67. The slit 67 is formed to extend in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 61. That is, the slit 67 is formed to extend in the front-rear direction. The slit 67 is formed from the tip end (rear end) of the insertion portion 63 to the base end (front end) of the non-insertion portion 64. The slit 67 is formed between a pair of ribs 66 that are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction. The slit 67 is formed one by one between each pair of ribs 66 that are adjacent to each other.

The tubular portion 61 is divided into a number of small pieces 68 in the circumferential direction of the tubular portion 61 by a number of slits 67. Reinforcing ribs 69 are connected to the inner surface of the small pieces 68 facing radially inward. The reinforcing ribs 69 are provided so as to extend radially from the center of the tubular portion 61.

As shown in FIG. 20, when the front end surface 2A of the suction tube 2 and the rear end surface of the rib 66 are in contact with each other, a gap 70 is formed between the front end surface 2A of the suction tube 2 and the opposing surface 65. In the circumferential direction of the cap 5, the dimension Wa of the gap 70 is larger than the dimension Wb of the rib 66.

If the maximum vacuum level when the suction motor 31 is driven with the suction port 16 sealed is 100%, the gap 70 and the slit 67 are determined so that the maximum vacuum level is 90% or more and 97% or less. The gap 70 is determined based on the amount of protrusion of the rib 66 from the opposing surface 65.

[Cleaning device]
In the embodiment, the dust collector 1 has a cleaning device 80 that cleans the filter 37. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a part of the cleaning device 80 according to the embodiment. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a part of the tank cover 20 viewed from the bottom. As shown in FIG. 11, the tank cover 20 has a first air passage 71L provided between the first filter 37L and the blower fan 29, and a second air passage 71R provided between the second filter 37R and the blower fan 29. The tank cover 20 also has a first connection port 72L that connects the first air passage 71L and the first exhaust flow path 51, and a second connection port 72R that connects the second air passage 71R and the first exhaust flow path 51. The first connection port 72L and the second connection port 72R are provided so as to penetrate the upper surface and the lower surface of the first cover plate portion 43, respectively.

The dust collector 1 has a first valve 83L that opens and closes the first air passage 71L, and a second valve 83R that opens and closes the second air passage 71R. Each of the first valve 83L and the second valve 83R is rotatably supported on the first cover plate portion 43 of the tank cover 20. The first valve 83L operates to change between a first state in which the first air passage 71L is open and the first connection port 72L is closed, and a second state in which the first air passage 71L is closed and the first connection port 72L is open. The second valve 83R operates to change between a third state in which the second air passage 71R is open and the second connection port 72R is closed, and a fourth state in which the second air passage 71R is closed and the second connection port 72R is open.

A torsion spring is provided on each of the rotation shafts of the first valve 83L and the second valve 83R. When no external force is acting on the first valve 83L, the first valve 83L operates to be in a first state in which the first air passage 71L is opened and the first connection port 72L is closed by the elastic force of the torsion spring. The second valve 83R operates to be in a third state in which the second air passage 71R is opened and the second connection port 72R is closed by the elastic force of the torsion spring. In the first and third states, when the suction motor 31 is driven, the air in the internal space of the tank 3 passes through the filter 37, the communication port 35, and the air passage 71, and then flows into the blower fan 29 through the ventilation port 20A. In the first and third states, the air discharged from the fan exhaust port 34B of the motor assembly 9 flows through the first exhaust flow path 51, and is then supplied to the second exhaust flow path 52 through the communication port 53.

As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 21, the cleaning device 80 has a cleaning motor 81 and an actuating member 82 rotated by the cleaning motor 81. The actuating member 82 actuates a first valve 83L and a second valve 83R. The actuating member 82 rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow YL and the direction indicated by the arrow YR in FIG. 21 by the power generated by the cleaning motor 81. When the actuating member 82 moves in the direction indicated by the arrow YL, the first valve 83L is pushed by the actuating member 82 and operates to a second state in which the first air passage 71L is closed and the first connection port 72L is opened. When the actuating member 82 moves in the direction indicated by the arrow YR, the second valve 83R is pushed by the actuating member 82 and operates to a fourth state in which the second air passage 71R is closed and the second connection port 72R is opened.

Figure 22 is a diagram showing the state of the filter 37 when the first valve 83L is in the second state and the second valve 83R is in the third state according to the embodiment. Figure 23 is a diagram showing the state of the filter 37 when the first valve 83L is in the first state and the second valve 83R is in the fourth state according to the embodiment.

In an embodiment, cleaning of the filter 37 includes separating dust adhering to the lower surface of the filter 37 from the lower surface of the filter 37. The lower surface of the filter 37 includes the lower surface of the prefilter 37A. In an embodiment, cleaning of the filter 37 includes separating dust adhering to the lower surface of the prefilter 37A from the lower surface of the prefilter 37A. In an embodiment, cleaning of the filter 37 includes cleaning of the first filter 37L and cleaning of the second filter 37R.

When the first valve 83L is operated to change from the first state to the second state while the suction motor 31 is driven, the first air passage 71L is closed, and air does not flow from the tank 3 to the first filter 37L. Since the second air passage 71R is open, air flows from the tank 3 to the second filter 37R. The air that flows into the second filter 37R flows into the motor assembly 9, and is then discharged from the motor assembly 9 to the first exhaust flow path 51. Since the first connection port 72L is open, at least a portion of the air discharged from the motor assembly 9 to the first exhaust flow path 51 is supplied to the upper surface of the first filter 37L through the first connection port 72L and the first communication port 35L. By supplying air to the upper surface of the first filter 37L, gas is sprayed from the lower surface of the first filter 37L as shown by the arrow in FIG. 22. As a result, foreign matter attached to the lower surface of the first filter 37L is separated from the lower surface of the first filter 37L, and the first filter 37L is cleaned.

When the second valve 83R is operated to change from the third state to the fourth state while the suction motor 31 is driven, the second air passage 71R is closed, and air does not flow from the tank 3 to the second filter 37R. Since the first air passage 71L is open, air flows from the tank 3 to the first filter 37L. The air that flows into the first filter 37L flows into the motor assembly 9, and is then discharged from the motor assembly 9 to the first exhaust flow path 51. Since the second connection port 72R is open, at least a portion of the air discharged from the motor assembly 9 to the first exhaust flow path 51 is supplied to the upper surface of the second filter 37R through the second connection port 72R and the second communication port 35R. By supplying air to the upper surface of the second filter 37R, gas is sprayed from the lower surface of the second filter 37R, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 23. As a result, foreign matter attached to the lower surface of the second filter 37R is separated from the lower surface of the second filter 37R, and the second filter 37R is cleaned.

[Linkage with power tools]
FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing the dust collector 1 connected to the power tool 90 according to the embodiment. The dust collector 1 can be connected to the power tool 90. An example of the power tool 90 is a circular saw, which is a type of portable cutting machine. When the power tool 90 cuts the work object, dust is generated from the work object by the power tool 90. The power tool 90 and the suction port 16 of the dust collector 1 are connected via a dust collection hose 17. In the embodiment, the dust collector 1 is linked to the power tool 90. When the power tool 90 is started, the suction motor 31 is started, and the suction operation of the dust collector 1 is started. In the embodiment, the power tool 90 and the dust collector 1 communicate wirelessly. The power tool 90 and the dust collector 1 may communicate wirelessly based on, for example, the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard.

Figure 25 is a block diagram showing a power tool 90 and a dust collector 1 according to an embodiment. The power tool 90 has a trigger switch 91, a tool motor 92, a controller 93, and a wireless transmitter 94. The controller 93 has a tool start signal generating unit 93A, a tool stop signal generating unit 93B, and a signal transmitting unit 93C. The dust collector 1 has a controller 15, a suction motor 31, a cleaning motor 81, and a wireless receiver 47. The controller 15 has a signal receiving unit 15A, a motor control unit 15B, and a cleaning control unit 15C.

This is the power source of the tool motor 92. When the tool motor 92 is driven, the output part of the power tool 90 rotates. When the power tool 90 is a circular saw, the tool motor 92 rotates a rotary blade as the output part of the power tool 90. The trigger switch 91 is operated by the operator. When the trigger switch 91 is operated, an operation signal is generated in the trigger switch 91, and the tool motor 92 starts. When the operation of the trigger switch 91 is released, the tool motor 92 stops.

The tool start-up signal generating unit 93A outputs a tool start-up signal for starting the tool motor 92 based on an operation signal generated by operating the trigger switch 91. The tool motor 92 starts based on the tool start-up signal output from the tool start-up signal generating unit 93A.

When the operation of the trigger switch 91 is released, the tool stop signal generating unit 93B outputs a tool stop signal to stop the tool motor 92. The tool motor 92 stops based on the tool stop signal output from the tool stop signal generating unit 93B.

The signal transmission unit 93C transmits a tool start signal and a tool stop signal to the dust collector 1. The signal transmission unit 93C transmits the tool start signal to the dust collector 1 via the wireless transmitter 94 in synchronization with the output of the tool start signal from the tool start signal generation unit 93A to the tool motor 92. The signal transmission unit 93C transmits the tool stop signal to the dust collector 1 via the wireless transmitter 94 in synchronization with the output of the tool stop signal from the tool stop signal generation unit 93B to the tool motor 92.

The wireless receiver 47 receives the tool start signal and the tool stop signal transmitted from the wireless transmitter 94 provided in the power tool 90. The signal receiving unit 15A receives the tool start signal and the tool stop signal transmitted from the power tool 90 via the wireless transmitter 94.

The motor control unit 15B controls the suction motor 31. The motor control unit 15B controls the suction motor 31 so as to operate in conjunction with the power tool 90. The motor control unit 15B controls the suction motor 31 based on the tool start signal and the tool stop signal transmitted from the power tool 90. The motor control unit 15B starts the suction motor 31 together with the start of the power tool 90 based on the tool start signal transmitted from the power tool 90. The motor control unit 15B continues the drive of the suction motor 31 for a predetermined period Ta (e.g., 3 seconds) after the power tool 90 is stopped based on the tool stop signal transmitted from the power tool 90, and then stops the suction motor 31. The tool stop signal functions as a motor stop signal that stops the suction motor 31. After the motor control unit 15B wirelessly receives the tool stop signal that stops the power tool 90 via the wireless receiver 47 and the signal receiving unit 15A, it continues the drive of the suction motor 31 for a predetermined period Ta and then stops the suction motor 31.

The cleaning control unit 15C operates the cleaning device 80. The cleaning control unit 15C controls the cleaning motor 81 of the cleaning device 80. Operating the cleaning device 80 includes driving the cleaning motor 81. The cleaning control unit 15C operates the cleaning device 80 after the power tool 90 connected to the suction port 16 is stopped. The cleaning control unit 15C operates the cleaning device 80 after wirelessly receiving a tool stop signal to stop the power tool 90 via the wireless receiver 47 and the signal receiving unit 15A. The cleaning control unit 15C operates the cleaning device 80 during the above-mentioned predetermined period Ta.

Figure 26 is a flowchart showing the operation of the power tool 90 and the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment. The power tool 90 is connected to the suction port 16 of the dust collector 1 via the dust collection hose 17. The operator operates the trigger switch 91 of the power tool 90. When the trigger switch 91 is operated, the tool start-up signal generating unit 93A generates a tool start-up signal (step SB1). The tool start-up signal generated by the tool start-up signal generating unit 93A is output to the tool motor 92. The tool motor 92 starts based on the tool start-up signal (step SB2). In addition, the tool start-up signal generated by the tool start-up signal generating unit 93A is transmitted to the dust collector 1 via the wireless transmitter 94.

The wireless receiver 47 receives the tool start signal transmitted from the power tool 90 (step SA1). The motor control unit 15B starts the suction motor 31 based on the tool start signal transmitted from the power tool 90 (step SA2). In the embodiment, the tool motor 92 and the suction motor 31 start substantially simultaneously. The tool motor 92 starts, cutting the work object. The suction motor 31 starts, and dust generated from the work object is sucked into the dust collector 1 via the dust collection hose 17.

When the operator releases the operation of the trigger switch 91, the tool stop signal generating unit 93B generates a tool stop signal (step SB3). The tool stop signal generated by the tool stop signal generating unit 93B is output to the tool motor 92. The tool motor 92 stops based on the tool stop signal (step SB3). In addition, the tool stop signal generated by the tool stop signal generating unit 93B is transmitted to the dust collector 1 via the wireless transmitter 94.

The wireless receiver 47 receives the tool stop signal transmitted from the power tool 90 (step SA3). Even if the motor control unit 15B receives the tool stop signal transmitted from the power tool 90, it does not immediately stop the suction motor 31, but continues to drive the suction motor 31 for a predetermined period Ta.

The cleaning control unit 15C starts the cleaning motor 81 based on the tool stop signal transmitted from the power tool 90 (step SA4). With the suction motor 31 continuing to be driven, the activation of the cleaning motor 81 operates the operating member 82, thereby cleaning the filter 37, as described with reference to Figures 22 and 23. The time required to clean the filter 37 is shorter than the predetermined period Ta (e.g., 3 seconds).

After the filter 37 is cleaned by driving the cleaning motor 81, the cleaning control unit 15C stops the cleaning motor 81 (step SA5). After the cleaning of the filter 37 is completed and a predetermined period Ta has elapsed since the tool stop signal was received, the motor control unit 15B stops the suction motor 31 (step SA6).

[effect]
As described above, in the embodiment, the dust collector 1 includes the main housing 7, the suction tube 2 having the suction port 16 leading to the inside of the main housing 7, the motor assembly 9 including the blower fan 29 arranged inside the main housing 7 and the suction motor 31 that rotates the blower fan 29 and generates a suction force at the suction port 16, and the cap 5 having a flange portion 60 having an opposing surface 65 opposing the front end surface 2A of the suction tube 2 and a tubular portion 61 including an insertion portion 63 inserted into the suction port 16. The cap 5 has a rib 66 protruding from the opposing surface 65.

In the above configuration, contact between the front end surface 2A of the suction tube 2 and the rib 66 forms a gap 70 between the front end surface 2A of the suction tube 2 and the opposing surface 65 of the flange portion 60. Even if the suction port 16 is covered with the cap 5, the suction port 16 is not sealed, so heating of the suction motor 31 is suppressed even if the suction motor 31 is driven with the suction port 16 covered with the cap 5. In addition, by covering the suction port 16 with the cap 5, dust sucked into the tank 3 of the dust collector 1 is suppressed from leaking out of the tank 3 through the suction port 16.

In this embodiment, when the front end surface 2A of the suction tube 2 is in contact with the rib 66, a gap 70 is formed between the front end surface 2A of the suction tube 2 and the opposing surface 65, and the dimension Wa of the gap 70 in the circumferential direction of the cap 5 is greater than the dimension Wb of the rib 66.

The above configuration creates a gap 70 of appropriate dimensions.

In this embodiment, the opposing surface 65 is ring-shaped, and multiple ribs 66 are provided at intervals around the circumference of the opposing surface 65.

In the above configuration, the gap 70 is properly formed, and even if the suction port 16 is covered with the cap 5, the suction port 16 is prevented from being sealed.

In this embodiment, the multiple ribs 66 are evenly spaced apart.

In the above configuration, the ribs 66 contact the front end surface 2A of the suction tube 2 at equal intervals, preventing the cap 5 from being attached to the suction tube 2 in an inclined state.

In this embodiment, at least three ribs 66 are provided.

The above configuration prevents the cap 5 from being attached to the suction tube 2 in an inclined state.

In this embodiment, the rib 66 is provided to extend radially from the opposing surface 65.

The above configuration stabilizes contact between the end face of the suction tube 2 and the rib 66.

In an embodiment, the radially inner end of the rib 66 may be positioned radially inward from the opposing surface 65.

In the above configuration, the cap 5 is stably supported on the suction tube 2 via the rib 66.

In the embodiment, the cylindrical portion 61 is disposed radially inward from the opposing surface 65 and includes a non-inserted portion 64 that is disposed outside the suction port 16 when the insertion portion 63 is inserted into the suction port 16. The radially inner end of the rib 66 is connected to the non-inserted portion 64.

The above configuration prevents the strength of the cap 5 from decreasing.

In this embodiment, the cylindrical portion 61 has a slit 67.

In the above configuration, even when the cylindrical portion 61 is inserted into the suction port 16, the slits 67 prevent the suction port 16 from being sealed.

In this embodiment, the slit 67 is formed to extend in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 61.

In the above configuration, even when the cylindrical portion 61 is inserted into the suction port 16, the slits 67 prevent the suction port 16 from being sealed.

In this embodiment, the slit 67 is formed from the tip of the insertion portion 63 to the base of the non-insertion portion 64.

In the above configuration, even when the cylindrical portion 61 is inserted into the suction port 16, the slits 67 prevent the suction port 16 from being sealed.

In this embodiment, the slit 67 is formed between a pair of adjacent ribs 66.

The above configuration prevents the strength of the cap 5 from decreasing.

In this embodiment, the slits 67 are formed one each between a pair of adjacent ribs 66.

The above configuration prevents the strength of the cap 5 from decreasing.

In this embodiment, if the maximum vacuum level when the suction motor 31 is driven with the suction port 16 sealed is set to 100%, the gap 70 and the slit 67 are determined so that the maximum vacuum level is 90% or more and 97% or less.

The above configuration both prevents the suction motor 31 from overheating and prevents dust from leaking from the tank 3.

[Other embodiments]
In the embodiment described with reference to Fig. 26, after receiving a tool stop signal (motor stop signal) transmitted from the power tool 90, the motor control unit 15B continues driving the suction motor 31 for a predetermined period Ta and then stops the suction motor 31, and the cleaning control unit 15C operates the cleaning device 80 during the predetermined period Ta. The cleaning device 80 may clean the filter 37 without interlocking with the power tool 90. An example of the operation of the cleaning device 80 without interlocking with the power tool 90 will be described below with reference to Fig. 27.

Figure 27 is a flowchart showing the operation of the dust collector 1 according to the embodiment. When a user of the dust collector 1 turns on the switch button 13, a motor start signal that starts the suction motor 31 is generated as an operation signal in the switch button 13. The motor control unit 15B receives the motor start signal from the switch button 13 (step SC1). The suction motor 31 starts based on the motor start signal (step SC2).

When the user turns off the switch button 13, a motor stop signal that stops the suction motor 31 is generated as an operation signal in the switch button 13. The motor control unit 15B receives the motor stop signal from the switch button 13 (step SC3).

Even if the motor control unit 15B receives a motor stop signal from the switch button 13, it does not immediately stop the suction motor 31, but continues to drive the suction motor 31 for a predetermined period Ta.

The cleaning control unit 15C starts the cleaning motor 81 based on the motor stop signal from the switch button 13 (step SC4). While the suction motor 31 continues to be driven, the start of the cleaning motor 81 operates the operating member 82, thereby cleaning the filter 37, as described with reference to Figures 22 and 23. The time required to clean the filter 37 is shorter than the predetermined period Ta (e.g., 3 seconds).

After the filter 37 has been cleaned by driving the cleaning motor 81, the cleaning control unit 15C stops the cleaning motor 81 (step SC5). After the cleaning of the filter 37 is completed and a predetermined period Ta has elapsed since receiving the motor stop signal, the motor control unit 15B stops the suction motor 31 (step SC6).

Even in the example described with reference to FIG. 27, the suction motor 31 continues to be driven until the predetermined period Ta has elapsed since the motor stop signal was received. During the predetermined period Ta, the cleaning device 80 can clean the filter 37 by using suction by the suction motor 31. After the foreign matter has been separated from the filter 37, the user can resume use of the dust collector 1.

1...dust collector, 2...suction tube, 2A...front end surface, 3...tank, 3A...handle portion, 4...inlet cover, 5...cap, 6...wheel, 6F...swivel wheel, 6R...fixed wheel, 7...main body housing, 8...hook, 9...motor assembly, 10...inner cover, 10A...engagement portion, 10B...protrusion, 10C...claw portion, 10D...recess, 10E...flow path, 11...filter unit, 12...switch base, 13...switch button, 14...handle, 15...controller, 15A...signal receiving portion, 15B...motor control unit, 15C...cleaning control unit, 16...suction port, 17...dust collection hose, 18...handle portion, 19...space, 20...tank cover, 20A...vent, 20B...recess, 20C...tube portion, 2 1 ... separator, 22 ... cowling, 23 ... battery cover, 24 ... hose hook, 25 ... dust collection pipe, 26 ... pipe support portion, 26A ... convex portion, 26B ... support surface, 27 ... cap holder, 27A ... clamp portion, 28 ... support portion, 29 ... blower fan, 30 ... cooling fan, 31 ... suction motor, 31A ... stator, 31B ... rotor, 31C ... rotor shaft, 31D ... bearing, 31E ... bearing, 32 ... motor housing, 32A ... motor intake port, 32B ... motor exhaust port, 33A ... base, 33B ... fan base, 34 ... fan cover, 34A ... fan intake port, 34B ... fan exhaust port, 35 ... communication port, 35L ... first communication port, 35R ... second communication port, 36 ... mesh portion, 36L...first mesh portion, 36R...second mesh portion, 37...filter, 37A...prefilter, 37B...intermediate filter, 37C...main filter, 37L...first filter, 37R...second filter, 38...filter holder, 38A...latch lever, 38B...recess, 38C...hook portion, 38D...handle portion, 38H...holding portion, 39...main power switch, 40...battery pack, 41...battery chamber, 42...exhaust port, 42A...sound absorbing member, 43...first cover plate portion, 44...first guide plate portion, 44A...sound absorbing member, 45...second cover plate portion, 46...second guide plate portion, 47...radio receiver, 50...exhaust flow path, 51...first exhaust flow path, 52...second exhaust flow path, 53...connecting Thread opening, 60... flange portion, 61... cylindrical portion, 62... handle portion, 63... insertion portion, 63A... radial outer end portion, 64... non-insertion portion, 65... opposing surface, 66... rib, 67... slit, 68... small piece portion, 69... reinforcing rib, 70... gap, 71... air passage, 71L... first air passage, 71R... second air passage, 72L... first connection port, 72R... second connection port, 80... cleaning device, 81... cleaning motor, 82... actuating member, 83L... first valve, 83R... second valve, 90... power tool, 91... trigger switch, 92... tool motor, 93... controller, 93A... tool start signal generating portion, 93B... tool stop signal generating portion, 93C... signal transmitting portion, 94... wireless transmitter, Ta... predetermined period, Wa... dimension, Wb... dimension.

Claims (14)

A main body housing;
a suction tube having a suction port communicating with the inside of the main body housing;
a motor assembly including a blower fan disposed inside the main body housing and a suction motor for rotating the blower fan, the motor assembly generating a suction force at the suction port;
a cap having a flange portion having an opposing surface opposing an end surface of the suction cylinder, and a tubular portion including an insertion portion to be inserted into the suction port,
The cap has a rib protruding from the opposing surface.
Dust collector. When the end surface of the suction tube and the rib are in contact with each other, a gap is formed between the end surface of the suction tube and the opposing surface,
In the circumferential direction of the cap, the dimension of the gap is larger than the dimension of the rib.
The dust collector according to claim 1. The opposing surface is ring-shaped,
The ribs are provided at intervals in the circumferential direction of the opposing surface.
The dust collector according to claim 2. The plurality of ribs are provided at equal intervals.
The dust collector according to claim 3. At least three of the ribs are provided.
The dust collector according to claim 3. The rib is provided to extend in a radial direction of the opposing surface.
The dust collector according to claim 3. A radially inner end portion of the rib is disposed radially inward from the opposing surface.
The dust collector according to claim 6. the cylindrical portion includes a non-insertion portion that is disposed radially inward from the opposing surface and that is disposed outside the suction port when the insertion portion is inserted into the suction port,
A radially inner end of the rib is connected to the non-insertion portion.
A dust collector according to claim 7. The cylindrical portion has a slit.
The dust collector according to claim 8. The slit is formed to extend in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion.
The dust collector according to claim 9. The slit is formed from the tip end of the insertion portion to the base end of the non-insertion portion.
The dust collector according to claim 10. The slit is formed between a pair of the ribs adjacent to each other.
The dust collector according to claim 9. The slits are formed between each pair of adjacent ribs.
The dust collector according to claim 12. When the maximum degree of vacuum when the suction motor is driven with the suction port sealed is taken as 100%, the gap and the slit are determined so that the maximum degree of vacuum is 90% or more and 97% or less.
The dust collector according to claim 9.

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