US20080040883A1 - Air Flow Losses in a Vacuum Cleaners - Google Patents
Air Flow Losses in a Vacuum Cleaners Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080040883A1 US20080040883A1 US11/733,683 US73368307A US2008040883A1 US 20080040883 A1 US20080040883 A1 US 20080040883A1 US 73368307 A US73368307 A US 73368307A US 2008040883 A1 US2008040883 A1 US 2008040883A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- handle
- air passage
- base
- vacuum cleaner
- handheld
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 description 40
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 21
- 238000003032 molecular docking Methods 0.000 description 16
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 12
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 10
- 239000010419 fine particle Substances 0.000 description 10
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 8
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 8
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 6
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 6
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000001965 increasing effect Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000011045 prefiltration Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000011324 bead Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000001914 filtration Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 230000002829 reductive effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000005060 rubber Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000012815 thermoplastic material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 206010061258 Joint lock Diseases 0.000 description 2
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000011362 coarse particle Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 2
- -1 hair Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000002844 melting Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000008018 melting Effects 0.000 description 2
- 241000251730 Chondrichthyes Species 0.000 description 1
- 241001417527 Pempheridae Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 244000007853 Sarothamnus scoparius Species 0.000 description 1
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004026 adhesive bonding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003466 anti-cipated effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000008602 contraction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008021 deposition Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000881 depressing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000994 depressogenic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009429 electrical wiring Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005265 energy consumption Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002708 enhancing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000003811 finger Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001821 foam rubber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000002783 friction material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000014509 gene expression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007689 inspection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000670 limiting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000036961 partial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002985 plastic film Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000011084 recovery Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012858 resilient material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004576 sand Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003566 sealing material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009958 sewing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003892 spreading Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007480 spreading Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000013589 supplement Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000003813 thumb Anatomy 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L5/00—Structural features of suction cleaners
- A47L5/12—Structural features of suction cleaners with power-driven air-pumps or air-compressors, e.g. driven by motor vehicle engine vacuum
- A47L5/22—Structural features of suction cleaners with power-driven air-pumps or air-compressors, e.g. driven by motor vehicle engine vacuum with rotary fans
- A47L5/24—Hand-supported suction cleaners
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L5/00—Structural features of suction cleaners
- A47L5/12—Structural features of suction cleaners with power-driven air-pumps or air-compressors, e.g. driven by motor vehicle engine vacuum
- A47L5/22—Structural features of suction cleaners with power-driven air-pumps or air-compressors, e.g. driven by motor vehicle engine vacuum with rotary fans
- A47L5/225—Convertible suction cleaners, i.e. convertible between different types thereof, e.g. from upright suction cleaners to sledge-type suction cleaners
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L5/00—Structural features of suction cleaners
- A47L5/12—Structural features of suction cleaners with power-driven air-pumps or air-compressors, e.g. driven by motor vehicle engine vacuum
- A47L5/22—Structural features of suction cleaners with power-driven air-pumps or air-compressors, e.g. driven by motor vehicle engine vacuum with rotary fans
- A47L5/28—Suction cleaners with handles and nozzles fixed on the casings, e.g. wheeled suction cleaners with steering handle
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/0009—Storing devices ; Supports, stands or holders
- A47L9/0063—External storing devices; Stands, casings or the like for the storage of suction cleaners
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/0081—Means for exhaust-air diffusion; Means for sound or vibration damping
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/02—Nozzles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/02—Nozzles
- A47L9/04—Nozzles with driven brushes or agitators
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/10—Filters; Dust separators; Dust removal; Automatic exchange of filters
- A47L9/16—Arrangement or disposition of cyclones or other devices with centrifugal action
- A47L9/1608—Cyclonic chamber constructions
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/10—Filters; Dust separators; Dust removal; Automatic exchange of filters
- A47L9/16—Arrangement or disposition of cyclones or other devices with centrifugal action
- A47L9/165—Construction of inlets
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/10—Filters; Dust separators; Dust removal; Automatic exchange of filters
- A47L9/16—Arrangement or disposition of cyclones or other devices with centrifugal action
- A47L9/1658—Construction of outlets
- A47L9/1666—Construction of outlets with filtering means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/20—Means for cleaning filters
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/24—Hoses or pipes; Hose or pipe couplings
- A47L9/242—Hose or pipe couplings
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/28—Installation of the electric equipment, e.g. adaptation or attachment to the suction cleaner; Controlling suction cleaners by electric means
- A47L9/2836—Installation of the electric equipment, e.g. adaptation or attachment to the suction cleaner; Controlling suction cleaners by electric means characterised by the parts which are controlled
- A47L9/2842—Suction motors or blowers
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/28—Installation of the electric equipment, e.g. adaptation or attachment to the suction cleaner; Controlling suction cleaners by electric means
- A47L9/2857—User input or output elements for control, e.g. buttons, switches or displays
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/28—Installation of the electric equipment, e.g. adaptation or attachment to the suction cleaner; Controlling suction cleaners by electric means
- A47L9/2868—Arrangements for power supply of vacuum cleaners or the accessories thereof
- A47L9/2873—Docking units or charging stations
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/28—Installation of the electric equipment, e.g. adaptation or attachment to the suction cleaner; Controlling suction cleaners by electric means
- A47L9/2868—Arrangements for power supply of vacuum cleaners or the accessories thereof
- A47L9/2884—Details of arrangements of batteries or their installation
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/28—Installation of the electric equipment, e.g. adaptation or attachment to the suction cleaner; Controlling suction cleaners by electric means
- A47L9/2889—Safety or protection devices or systems, e.g. for prevention of motor over-heating or for protection of the user
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to convertible stick vacuum cleaners having a removable handheld vacuum component, free standing handheld vacuum cleaners, upright vacuum cleaners and various improvements to such devices and other types of vacuum cleaners.
- Electric vacuum cleaners are in widespread use in homes, offices and other places where quick and efficient floor cleaning is desired.
- Such vacuum cleaners are provided in various configurations, such as upright, canister, “stick,” and “powerhead” designs.
- Some vacuum cleaners have been provided in convertible form, in which they are capable of being converted from one form of vacuum cleaner to another.
- some upright vacuum cleaners are convertible to operate in canister form, and vice-versa.
- stick vacuum cleaners that have removable handheld components.
- Such a device is shown in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/544,927, which is incorporated herein by reference.
- Other similar devices include the vacuum cleaner shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,839,934 (which also has a removable upper handle element), 6,964,082, and D307,657, which are all incorporated herein by reference.
- the suction efficiency of these and other vacuum cleaners is determined both by, among other things, the efficiency of the vacuum source and the suction losses that occur in the air passages through the vacuum cleaner. Avoiding air flow losses in the air passages is important in all kinds of vacuum cleaners in order to achieve a high suction efficiency and reduce energy consumption. However, it is especially important in vacuum cleaners having an electric motor powered by batteries. In such a case it is not a preferred option to compensate for air flow losses in the air passages by increasing the motor power, because this will shorten battery life and necessitate more frequent recharging. Alternatively, the battery power capacity could be increased by providing more batteries in the vacuum cleaner, but this can increase the cost and weight of the vacuum cleaner. It has been found that reducing airflow losses is also particularly important in stick vacuum cleaners and so-called 2-in-1 vacuum cleaners (stick vacuums with removable handheld vacuums), which often have a relatively long airflow path.
- an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a vacuum cleaner having a handle having a handle air passage extending therein, a base attached to a first end of the handle by an articulating joint and having a base inlet positioned to face a surface to be cleaned, a base air passage extending from the base inlet and past the articulated joint by a flexible hose, and to the handle air passage, a dirt collection assembly associated with the handle and in fluid communication with the handle air passage, a fan associated with the handle and in fluid communication with the handle air passage, and a motor associated with the handle and adapted to drive the fan to thereby generate an airflow through the base inlet, flexible hose, handle air passage, and dirt collection assembly.
- the flexible hose has a generally rectangular cross-section along a substantial portion thereof.
- an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a vacuum cleaner having a handle having a handle air passage extending therein, a base attached to a first end of the handle by an articulating joint and having a base inlet positioned to face a surface to be cleaned, a base air passage extending from the base inlet and past the articulated joint by a flexible hose having a generally rectangular cross-section along a substantial portion thereof and to the handle air passage, and a handheld unit selectively removable from the handle.
- the handheld unit has a handheld unit inlet, a dirt collection assembly, a fan, and a motor. The motor is adapted to drive the fan to thereby generate an airflow through the handheld unit inlet and the dirt collection assembly.
- the handheld unit inlet is in fluid communication with the handle air passage when the handheld unit is attached to the handle, and when so positioned, the motor is adapted to drive the fan to thereby generate an airflow through the base air passage, the handle air passage, the handheld unit inlet, and the dirt collection assembly.
- an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a vacuum cleaner having a handle having a handle air passage extending therein, a base attached to a first end of the handle by an articulating joint and base having a base inlet positioned to face a surface to be cleaned, an air passage extending from the base inlet and past the articulated joint by way of a flexible hose and to the handle air passage, a dirt collection assembly in fluid communication with the handle air passage, a fan assembly in fluid communication with the handle air passage, and a motor adapted to drive the fan assembly to thereby generating an airflow through the base inlet, the flexible hose, the handle air passage, and the dirt collection assembly.
- the flexible hose has a non-ovate cross-section along a substantial portion thereof.
- FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a convertible stick vacuum of the present invention, shown with the handheld vacuum attached to the stick assembly.
- FIG. 1B is an isometric view of the convertible stick vacuum of FIG. 1A , shown with the handheld removed from the stick assembly.
- FIG. 1C is an isometric rear view of the convertible stick vacuum of FIG. 1A , shown with the handheld removed from the stick assembly.
- FIG. 2A is a fragmented isometric view of the convertible stick vacuum of FIG. 1A , shown with the handheld vacuum resting in a partially-removed position.
- FIG. 2B is a fragmented isometric view of the convertible stick vacuum of FIG. 1A , shown with the handheld vacuum removed from the stick.
- FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the stick handle of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 3A is a partially exploded view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 3B is a fragmented, partially disassembled view of the hose and housing shown in FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 3C is a partially cut away view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 4 is a fragmented rear isometric view of the grip portion of the stick handle of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 4A is a fragmented rear isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the grip portion of the stick handle of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 4B is a longitudinal section through a slip-resistant insert of FIG. 4A .
- FIG. 4C is a cross sectional cutaway view through an alternative embodiment of a stick handle having a “cast-on” strip of a slip-resistant insert.
- FIG. 4D is a side view of a vacuum cleaner leaned against a table top.
- FIG. 4E is a side view of a vacuum cleaner leaned against a wall.
- FIGS. 5A and 5B are front and side cutaway views, respectively, of the handheld latch of the embodiment of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 6 is an exploded isometric view of the nozzle base of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 7 is a schematic front view of the removable brushroll of the embodiment of FIG. 1A .
- FIGS. 8A and 8B are cutaway side views of the nozzle base of FIG. 1A , showing the brushroll removal mechanism in the latched and unlatched positions, respectively.
- FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the handheld portion of the stick vacuum of FIG. 1A , shown without the dirt collection assembly.
- FIG. 9A is a partially cut away view of the motor and fan assembly of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the dirt collection assembly of the handheld vacuum of FIG. 1A .
- FIGS. 10A and 10B are partially exploded isometric views of the handheld vacuum of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 10C is a partially cut away top view of the dirt collection assembly of the handheld vacuum of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 11 is a cutaway side view of the dirt collection assembly of the handheld vacuum of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 11A is a cutaway side view of an alternate embodiment of the handheld vacuum of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 11B is a cutaway side view of one embodiment of a filter unit of the handheld vacuum of FIG. 11A .
- FIG. 11C is a side view of the filter unit of FIG. 11B .
- FIG. 11D is a cutaway side view of the filter unit of FIG. 11B in a contracted state.
- FIG. 11E is a cutaway side view of another embodiment of a filter unit of the handheld vacuum of FIG. 11A .
- FIG. 11F is a cutaway side view of the filter unit of FIG. 11E in a contracted state.
- FIG. 11G is a cutaway side view of yet another embodiment of a filter unit of the handheld vacuum of FIG. 11A .
- FIG. 12 is a cutaway top view of the dirt collection assembly of the handheld vacuum of FIG. 1A , as shown along line XII-XII of FIG. 11 .
- FIGS. 13A and 13B are isometric views of the cyclone insert of the dirt collection assembly of FIG. 10 , shown with the coarse screen filters removed.
- FIG. 13C is an exploded view of the handheld portion of the stick vacuum of FIG. 11A , shown with a filter unit incorporating cyclonic airflow.
- FIGS. 14A and 14B are isometric views of a charging stand for the convertible stick vacuum of FIG. 1A , shown with accessory tools stored therein, and with the accessory tools removed, respectively.
- FIGS. 15A-15D are isometric views of alternative storage stands for stick vacuum cleaners.
- the present disclosure generally provides a novel convertible stick vacuum cleaner having various unique features.
- the devices and features described herein provide a number of different inventions that may be used together, separately, or in combination. While the features described herein and illustrated in the accompanying figures are shown in the context of a convertible (i.e., 2-in-1) stick vacuum cleaner, it will be understood that aspects of the invention can also be practiced with a wet or dry extractor, an upright or canister vacuum cleaner, other stick vacuums and electric brooms, a central vacuum cleaner, or with other types of vacuum cleaners or other cleaning devices.
- vacuum cleaner and “vacuum” are intended to include any cleaning device that uses a suction source to remove dirt or other undesirable substances from surfaces, regardless of whether it includes specialty features, such as a fluid deposition system and fluid recovery tank (as in wet extractors), and regardless of what type of dirt separation system it uses (such as cyclonic, bag, or dirt cup separation systems).
- specialty features such as a fluid deposition system and fluid recovery tank (as in wet extractors), and regardless of what type of dirt separation system it uses (such as cyclonic, bag, or dirt cup separation systems).
- a preferred convertible stick vacuum 100 of the present invention includes a stick assembly 102 and a handheld vacuum (or simply “handheld”) 104 that can be mounted and dismounted from the stick assembly 102 .
- the stick assembly 102 comprises a handle 103 , which has a grip portion 106 located at one end thereof and a mounting portion 108 located along the length of the handle 103 .
- the stick assembly 102 also preferably includes a base 110 , which is attached to the end of the handle 103 opposite the grip portion 106 .
- the grip portion 106 is positioned and shaped to be grasped by a user to manipulate the device when the handheld 104 is attached to the stick assembly 102 to thereby operate the device in the stick vacuum mode, as shown in FIG. 1A .
- the mounting portion 108 is provided with a mounting recess 112 ( FIG. 1B ) or other mounting structure to which the handheld 104 is attached.
- the base 110 is attached to the handle 103 either by a rigid attachment or by one or more pivots, and may be removable for use without it.
- the handheld 104 comprises a vacuum motor that draws dirt-laden air into a handheld inlet nozzle 114 .
- the inlet nozzle 114 is connected with a inlet in the base 110 .
- the handheld exhausts the airflow through one or more exhaust outlets 118 , 120 .
- One way to further restrict the air flow losses through the vacuum cleaner is to reduce the air flow resistance through these outlets. To this end, larger and/or multiple outlets may be used.
- the handheld 104 may be retained in the stick assembly 102 by any suitable arrangement of latches, catches, hooks, or the like.
- the mounting recess 112 comprises a cavity that is shaped to generally follow the contours of the bottom of the handheld 104 so that the handheld 104 fits into the stick assembly 102 to provide the assembled device with a smooth and integrated appearance.
- the handheld 104 is retained in the recess 112 at its lower end by the handheld inlet nozzle 114 , which protrudes from the surface of the handheld 104 and hooks into a corresponding inlet conduit opening 202 in the recess 112 .
- the inlet conduit opening 202 is in fluid communication with an inlet located in the base 110 , which is described in more detail subsequently herein.
- the upper end of the handheld 104 is retained in the recess 112 by a moveable docking latch 352 (see FIGS. 3, 5A and 5 B), which engages a latch receptacle 204 ( FIG. 2A ) at or near the end of the handheld 104 .
- the handheld 104 is attached to the stick assembly 102 by sliding the inlet nozzle 114 into the inlet conduit opening 202 and tilting the handheld 104 backwards into the recess 112 until the docking latch 352 engages the latch receptacle 204 .
- the docking latch 352 is actuated, such as by depressing one or more docking latch buttons 116 on the stick assembly 102 , to disengage the docking latch 352 from the latch receptacle 204 , at which point the handheld 104 can be grasped and withdrawn from the mounting receptacle 112 . While the foregoing attachment regime is preferred, any other suitable manner of attaching the handheld 104 to the stick assembly 102 may be used.
- the present invention is preferably constructed with a safety catch that holds the handheld 104 in the stick assembly 102 in a partially-removed state, as shown in FIG. 2A .
- the safety catch is helpful to prevent the handheld 104 from falling, should the user disengage the hook or other retaining mechanism without being prepared to take control of the handheld 104 .
- the mounting recess 112 preferably comprises a pair of clips 206 that fit into corresponding detents 208 on each side of the handheld (only one clip 206 and one detent 208 are fully visible).
- the clips 206 are resiliently biased towards the detents 208 , such as by being mounted on cantilevered or other flexible portions of the housing that forms the mounting recess 112 , by being spring biased, or by other known mechanisms.
- the clips 206 are positioned such that they fit into and/or engage the detents 208 when the handheld 104 has been partially removed from the mounting recess 112 . In this position, the clips 206 and detents 208 cooperate by their engagement to help prevent the handheld 104 from falling out of the stick assembly 102 .
- the user pulls on the handheld 104 to overcome the retaining force between the clips 206 and detents 208 .
- the locations of the clips 206 and detents 208 may be reversed, or the detents 208 may be replaced by rigidly- or resiliently-mounted clips.
- the safety catch may also comprise a latch that the user must specifically actuate to remove the handheld 104 . It should also be apparent from the foregoing disclosure that the preferred safety catch may not necessarily prevent the handheld 104 from falling out of the stick assembly 102 under all conditions, but instead is useful for this function only when the device is operated in the normally-expected manner—namely, when the stick handle 103 is generally vertically oriented.
- the stick handle 103 is made of two main parts, an upper handle 302 , and a lower handle 304 , to allow it to be partially disassembled for more compact storage and shipping. While preferred, this two-part construction is not required, and constructions having a single main part or more than two main parts may be used in other embodiments.
- the upper handle 302 is generally formed by front and rear upper handle housing shells 306 , 308 , which are joined to one another by snap fitment, screws, ultrasonic welds, adhesives, or the like.
- the upper end of the upper handle 302 is shaped to form the grip portion 106 of the stick assembly 102 . If desired, some or all of the grip portion 106 may be formed with grip-enhancing features such as dimples 310 .
- the grip portion 106 may also be painted or overmolded with a rubber or thermoplastic material that provides a comfortable or tactile gripping surface, as known in the art.
- the upper handle 302 also may include one or more features to help prevent the vacuum cleaner from slipping on surfaces against which it might be leaned for temporary storage.
- a slip-resistant insert 312 may be attached or molded to the back of the rear upper handle housing shell 308 to help prevent the stick assembly 102 from sliding when it is leaned against a table, counter, or other ledge.
- the slip-resistant insert 312 may comprise any tactile material, or a material having hooks, bumps, dimples, ridges or other surface features that tend to increase surface friction or otherwise resist sliding.
- the upper handle 302 may also include a slip-resistant bump 402 or protrusion on the end of the grip portion 106 to contact vertical surfaces, such as walls, against which the device may be leaned. Further embodiments and examples of slip-resisting features that may be used with the present invention are shown in FIGS. 4A-4E .
- FIG. 4A An alternative embodiment of stick handle 103 is shown in FIG. 4A .
- the vacuum cleaner is provided with a slip-resistant insert 404 in the area immediately beneath the grip portion 106 and a slip-resistant bump 402 in the upper end of the handle. Both the insert 404 and the bump 402 are manufactured of a high friction material.
- the grip portion 106 may include dimples 310 or be smooth as shown in FIG. 4A .
- the slip-resistant insert may be textured as in FIG. 4 (item 312 ) or the slip-resistant insert may be ridged as in FIG. 4A (item 404 ).
- FIG. 4B illustrates in greater detail the alternative embodiment of the slip resistant insert 404 .
- the insert 404 includes ridges 406 transverse to the insert length. Seen in longitudinal section of the insert, the ridges 406 are formed as shark fins or saw teeth to assist with gripping the edge of a table top or the like.
- the insert 404 is provided with a number of projections 408 , which are adapted to be pressed into respective holes in the stick handle 103 to fasten the insert 404 thereto.
- FIG. 4C illustrates an additional alternative embodiment for forming and attaching a slip-resistant insert 404 to the stick handle.
- a rear upper handle housing shell 308 is shown in cross section and, as is shown, the housing shell 308 is in the longitudinal direction formed with a centric positioned groove 410 .
- the insert 404 is cast formed over the groove 410 on the housing shell in a liquid or plastic state and subsequently hardened.
- the housing shell 308 includes through-holes 412 , the liquid or plastic compound may penetrate into the holes and, after subsequent hardening, form attaching members 414 , thereby attaching and securing insert 404 to the housing shell 308 .
- FIGS. 4D and 4E illustrate the benefits of providing a vacuum cleaner with the slip-resistant components according to the invention. Accordingly, the vacuum cleaner can be leaned against the edge of a table top 416 , as is shown in FIG. 4D , such that the slip-resistant insert 404 on the rear side of the stick handle bears against the edge, which will prevent the vacuum cleaner from sliding forward and falling to the floor. With a slip-resistant bump 402 on the upper end of the stick handle 103 , the vacuum cleaner also can be leaned towards a wall 418 , as is shown in FIG. 4E , without the risk of falling sideways to the floor.
- the upper handle also may include a switching arrangement for operating the device in the stick vacuum mode.
- an example switching arrangement includes an electric switch 314 , a circuit board 316 (if necessary), a switch slider 318 , and a switch actuator 320 .
- the switch actuator 320 is mounted to the front upper housing shell 306 and located to be readily operated by a user's thumb.
- the switch actuator 320 is attached to the switch slider 318 , which converts the switch's rocking motion into a linear sliding motion and moves the switch 314 between its various operating positions.
- the switch 314 is mounted to the circuit board 316 , which is connected to the remainder of the device by suitable electrical wiring (not shown). These and other suitable switch mechanisms are known in the art.
- the upper handle 302 may also include various other useful features.
- one or more auxiliary batteries may be mounted in a cavity 322 between the front and rear upper handle housing shells 306 , 308 .
- Such auxiliary batteries would supplement the power provided by batteries in the handheld 104 (see FIG. 9 ) when the device is operated in the stick vacuum mode.
- cleaning tools such as inlet nozzle attachments, or other electronics, such as charging circuitry, may be stored in the upper handle 302 .
- front and rear upper handle housing shells 306 , 308 When the front and rear upper handle housing shells 306 , 308 are attached to one another, they form a mounting post 324 that fits into a corresponding mounting hole 326 in the lower handle 304 . When so assembled, a screw 328 and nut 330 are used to secure the upper and lower handles 302 , 304 together. Of course, other attachment mechanisms, such as snap fitments or bayonet fittings, may be used instead.
- a wiring sheath 332 comprising a durable material (such as a cloth or synthetic woven sheath or a rolled plastic sheet or tube) may be provided between the upper handle 302 and lower handle 304 to prevent user exposure to the wires to and protect the electrical wires passing therebetween from being damaged when the upper and lower handles 302 , 304 are assembled or disassembled.
- a durable material such as a cloth or synthetic woven sheath or a rolled plastic sheet or tube
- the lower handle 304 preferably is formed by front and rear lower handle housing shells 334 , 336 , respectively.
- the handheld mounting recess 112 may be formed in either housing shell to position the handheld 104 on the front, back or side of the stick assembly 102 .
- the mounting recess 112 may alternatively be formed partially or entirely in the upper handle 302 .
- the mounting recess 112 is formed in the front surface of the front lower handle housing shell 334 .
- a first opening 336 is provided through the front lower handle housing shell 334 through which an electrical contact terminal 338 extends to electrically connect the handheld 104 to the stick assembly 102 .
- Other electrical components mounted in the lower handle 304 may also include a printed circuit board 346 that includes control logic circuitry for the vacuum cleaner and/or battery charging controls, and a pair of main electrical contacts 348 which extend through holes 350 in the rear lower handle housing 336 to contact corresponding electrical contacts 1408 on the device's charging stand (see FIGS. 14A and 14B ).
- the rear lower handle housing 336 also includes a slot 380 into which a corresponding hook 1406 on the charging stand fits to mount the vacuum 100 . If no charging stand is used, the electrical contacts 348 may be replaced by a charger plug receptacle (not shown) or a conventional power cord.
- a second opening 340 is provided through the front lower handle housing shell 334 at the bottom of the mounting recess 112 through which the inlet nozzle 114 of the handheld 104 may pass to engage the inlet conduit opening 202 .
- a corresponding opening 341 is provided through the rear lower handle housing shell 336 to provide an airflow path through the lower handle 304 .
- the inlet conduit opening 202 is formed as a separate part that is captured between the front and rear lower handle housing shells 334 , 336 , and fluidly between the two corresponding openings 340 , 341 , but it may instead be formed in one of the housing shells 334 , 336 .
- the part that forms the inlet conduit opening 202 comprises a relatively soft rubber or thermoplastic material that forms a seal against the handheld inlet nozzle 114 when it is attached thereto, but such a seal may instead by formed by gaskets, o-rings, closely-fitting parts, or other known devices.
- the mounting recess 112 also includes a pair of third openings 342 located on opposite sides of the recess 112 (only one such opening 342 is visible in the view of FIG. 3 ).
- the safety catch clips 206 extend as cantilevered protrusions from the rear lower handle housing shell 336 . When the front and rear lower handle housing shells 334 , 336 are assembled, the clips 206 extend into the third openings 342 to cooperate with the detents 208 on the handheld 104 when the handheld 104 is installed in the mounting recess 112 .
- the docking latch 352 and a pair of docking latch buttons 116 are captured between the front and rear lower handle housing shells 334 , 336 .
- the docking latch 352 comprises a pivot 502 at one end, which is pivotally mounted to the rear lower handle housing shell 336 , and a hook 504 at the other end.
- the hook 504 is positioned to pass through a corresponding hole 506 through the front lower handle housing shell 334 to enter the mounting recess 112 and engage the latch receptacle 204 located at the end of the handheld 104 .
- a spring 354 is provided between the docking latch 352 and a spring seat 508 projecting from the inner surface of the front lower handle housing shell 334 to resiliently bias the docking latch 352 into the engaged position.
- the docking latch 352 further includes a pair of latch cam surfaces 510 that project laterally and upwardly from each side of the docking latch 352 .
- the latch cam surfaces 510 are positioned adjacent corresponding button cam surfaces 512 on the docking latch buttons 116 .
- either or both of the buttons 116 may be depressed to engage the button cam surfaces 512 with the latch cam surfaces 510 to lift the docking latch 352 against the bias of the spring 354 .
- the hook 504 clears the latch receptacle 204 , and the handheld 104 may be removed.
- the above steps can be reversed to replace the handheld 104 , or the user may simply press the handheld 104 against the hook 504 to drive the docking latch 352 upwards against the bias of the spring 354 .
- one or both of the hook 504 and the handheld 104 may have a sloped cam surface to reduce friction between the two parts when replacing the handheld 104 .
- the stick handle 103 also includes a pivot assembly 356 for mounting the stick handle 103 to the base 110 ( FIG. 1 ).
- the pivot assembly 356 comprises a pivot link 358 which is mounted to the lower handle 304 such that it can pivot about a first axis 360 , and to the base 110 such that it can pivot about a second axis 362 .
- the first axis 360 is oriented generally in a plane parallel to the fore-aft direction of the device (i.e., the direction of normal travel of the device) and perpendicular to the long axis of the stick handle 103 .
- the second axis is generally parallel to the surface upon which the base 110 rests, and perpendicular to the fore-aft direction.
- the first and second axes 360 , 362 preferably are perpendicular to one another. While it is preferred to use this or similar two-axis articulating joints to join the handle 103 to the base 110 , other types of articulating joints, such as those that provide a single pivot axis between the base 110 and the handle 103 , may instead be used. Such articulating joints are commonly used in upright, stick and canister vacuum cleaners, and non-limiting examples of such devices are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,376,322; 5,107,567; 5,367,741; and 5,819,366, which are incorporated herein by reference.
- a clip joint 364 and clip joint lock 366 are used to mount the pivot link 358 to the lower handle 304 .
- the clip joint 364 comprises a cylindrical device that fits within a first hole 368 through the pivot link 358 , and a second hole 370 through the lower handle 304 (the second hole 370 preferably is formed through both the front and rear lower housing shells 334 , 336 ).
- the clip joint 364 is flared at each end to capture the pivot link 358 and lower handle 304 together, and provided with slotted sidewalls to allow one of the flared ends to be flexed inwardly to allow the clip joint 364 to pass through the holes 368 , 370 .
- the clip joint lock 366 is inserted into the clip joint 364 to prevent the sidewalls from flexing inwardly, thereby preventing its removal.
- the lower end of the pivot link 358 is pivotally mounted about the second axis 362 by a pivot rod 372 , which passes through corresponding holes 374 through the pivot link 358 .
- the ends of the pivot rod 372 are secured in the base 110 by mounting blocks 375 , which are captured in or attached to the base 110 , as described elsewhere herein.
- the flexible hose 376 has a generally rectangular cross sectional shape, which allows it to be made with a comparatively large cross sectional area, but still be concealed behind the pivot assembly 356 . This contributes to an attractive appearance of the vacuum cleaner while minimizing the air flow losses. It has been found that this shape maintains or improves airflow capacity over previous devices using oval or round hoses, without increasing the overall size of the device. It has been found, in one embodiment, that a cross sectional dimension of the air passages between 0.07-0.03 dm 2 is optimal for an air flow of 18.7 l/sec (liters per second). Furthermore, the rectangular shape is also capable of flexing and bending as the stick handle 103 moves and pivots relative to the base 110 without excessive occlusion of the hose 376 .
- non-ovate profiles such as a triangular profile, may also be useful to provide high airflow while still maintaining a compact overall size, but the rectangular shape is preferred for the shown embodiment.
- the rectangular hose 376 is not strictly required of all embodiments of the invention, and it would also be possible to replace the flexible hose 376 with a conventional ovate hose, or a rigid conduit or series of conduits that pivot or rotate relative to one another to allow the base 110 to articulate relative to the stick handle 103 .
- Abrupt airflow path cross-section changes can restrict the airflow, cause it to slow down and reduce effectiveness, and cause clogging.
- the airflow passage In order to prevent abrupt flow path profile changes that might increase airflow losses, it is preferred for the airflow passage to remain generally rectangular (or to otherwise match the cross-sectional shape of the hose) downstream of the hose 376 , at least for a short distance.
- the inlet conduit opening 202 and/or the openings 340 , 341 through the lower handle 304 may also be formed with a generally rectangular shape to correspond to the shape of the hose 376 . This may also be advantageous because using a rectangular airflow passage within the bodies of the lower handle 304 and handheld 104 may be a more compact, and possibly more desirable, design.
- the vacuum hose 376 is attached at its upper end to a hose mount 378 , which is attached to the bottom of the inlet conduit opening 202 .
- the hose mount 378 may be attached to the housing 304 by tabs 382 that fit into corresponding slots 384 in the housing 304 . These tabs 382 may be operated by a user to quickly release the hose 376 for inspection, and to remove any debris that may become stuck in the hose 376 and inhibit the airflow.
- the tab-and-slot arrangement can be modified or substituted by other releasable mechanisms.
- the hose 376 may be mounted directly to the inlet conduit opening 202 , or even captured in place or mounted in the lower handle 304 such that the handheld inlet 114 is inserted directly into the end of the hose 376 .
- the vacuum hose 376 , hose mount 378 , and inlet conduit opening 202 provide an inlet air flowpath to the handheld inlet 114 when the handheld 104 is mounted to the stick assembly 102 .
- FIG. 3C the airflow path from the hose 376 , through the base housing 304 , and into the handheld 104 is shown in more detail.
- the handheld 104 is mounted in the mounting recess 112 (see FIGS. 1B and 2A ) such that its inlet nozzle 114 is inserted into the inlet conduit opening 202 .
- the inlet conduit opening 202 preferably is a resilient material that forms a generally airtight seal between the opening 341 to which the hose 376 is attached and the handheld inlet nozzle 114 .
- the opening 202 is formed with a stepped shoulder portion 388 that abuts the end of the inlet nozzle 114 .
- the opening 202 also may include a bead 386 , that is adapted to bear against the outer surface of the inlet nozzle 114 . This provides an adequate seal to restricts air leakage into the inlet nozzle 114 .
- a bead 386 may unduly inhibit the insertion or removal of the handheld 104 , and if this is the case, it may be formed with gaps or discontinuities to facilitate releasing and mounting of the handheld 104 into the handle 103 .
- gaps preferably are located at the back of the opening 202 (i.e., the portion furthest back in the recess 112 ).
- the front portion of the bead 386 should be sufficient to press the inlet nozzle 114 against the back surface of the opening 202 to form a sufficient air seal.
- other sealing arrangements may be used, such as replacing the bead 386 and shoulder 388 with separate gaskets, o-rings, or the like.
- the base 110 is provided to support the stick vacuum 100 as it is moved across a surface being cleaned.
- An air inlet 602 is formed in the bottom of the base 110 and is fluidly connected to the vacuum hose 376 to form a portion of the inlet air flowpath.
- Various additional features, such as sweepers, airflow-increasing notches 604 , skirts, and the like may be located around the air inlet 602 , as known in the art.
- the base 110 preferably includes rolling devices or low-friction sliding surfaces to assist with moving across a surface being cleaned.
- a pair of rear wheels 676 are mounted in rear wheel housings 678 by respective wheel axles 680
- a smaller pair of front wheels 682 are mounted in front wheel housings 684 by respective axles 686
- the base 110 may be removable such that the device can be operated without it, as may be desired when cleaning in tight spaces.
- the base 110 preferably is formed by upper and lower base housing shells 606 , 608 , which generally contain and protect the working parts, if any are provided.
- the upper and lower base housing shells 606 , 608 capture and hold the pivot rod mounting blocks 375 ( FIG. 3 ), to pivotally retain the lower end of the pivot link 358 ( FIG. 3 ) in place.
- the pivot rod mounting blocks are positioned on top of mounting posts 618 located above the wheel housings 678 , and the pivot rod 372 passes through notches 620 located in the upper base housing shell 606 .
- the bottom of the pivot link 358 thus is able to pivot within a concave space 622 located at the back of the base 110 .
- the upper base housing shell 606 preferably provides a low-profile, aesthetically pleasing shape formed of a non-marking material or having a non-marking bumper formed around its perimeter to prevent marking objects it contacts during use.
- An opening 610 is formed in the upper base housing shell 606 to receive a lens 612 , which covers a status light 614 .
- the status light 614 is connected to a circuit board 616 , which is used to control the operation of the status light 614 to provide the user with feedback regarding the operation of the device.
- the status light 614 may be off when the device is off, turn green when a brushroll 624 mounted within the base 110 is operating, and turn red when the brushroll 624 stops unexpectedly, such as may happen if it becomes locked during operation and trips a circuit breaker (not shown) protecting the brushroll motor 626 .
- the status light 614 preferably comprises a light emitting diode (“LED”), which is relatively vibration resistant and preferred for potentially high-impact uses, but it may comprise any other type of light of indicating device.
- one or more headlights may be provided in the base 110 to illuminate the surface being cleaned.
- the air inlet 602 is fluidly connected to the vacuum hose 376 , which may be done by way of an intermediate manifold 628 .
- the manifold 628 comprises a flared conduit that extends from a hose mounting flange 630 to which the hose 376 is connected, to a relatively wide opening 632 located adjacent the air inlet 602 .
- the manifold 628 abuts the upper base housing shell 606 along its top edge, and together the manifold 628 and upper and lower base housing shells 606 , 608 form an air flow path from the air inlet 602 to the vacuum hose 376 .
- the manifold 628 may be formed integrally with, or formed by, one or both of the base housing shells 606 , 608 , or may be provided as a separate part that is captured in place between the shells 606 , 608 , as shown.
- the hose mounting flange 630 When assembled, the hose mounting flange 630 is located in the concave space 622 at the back of the base 110 , and positioned below the pivot link 358 . With this configuration, sufficient clearance should be provided between the pivot link 358 and the hose 376 to allow the pivot link 358 to move within the space 622 without rubbing against or significantly pinching the vacuum hose 376 .
- a brushroll 624 may be mounted above the air inlet 602 such that its bristles (not shown) protrude through the inlet 602 to agitate a surface to be cleaned. Any of the many different brushrolls and brushroll mounting arrangements known in the art may be used, but in the preferred embodiment, the brushroll 624 is mounted by a release system that allows a user to quickly remove the brushroll 624 to remove dirt or objects that are trapped in the inlet 602 or wrapped around the brushroll 624 , or for other maintenance. Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7 , in a preferred arrangement, the brushroll 624 is mounted at one end to a drive plate 634 , and at the other end to a mounting block 636 . The mounting block 636 is releasably mounted, as described below, so that the brushroll 624 can be easily detached from the drive plate 634 and removed from the base 110 .
- the drive plate 634 is driven by a brushroll motor 626 .
- a drive gear 640 is attached to the motor 626
- a driven gear 642 is attached to the drive plate 634 by a stub shaft 644 .
- a drive belt 646 interconnects the gears 640 , 642 .
- the stub shaft 644 is pressed into or splined to both the driven gear 642 and the drive plate 634 , and is rotatably mounted to the base 110 by a bearing 648 . While the bearing 648 may be directly mounted to the upper and/or lower base housing shell 606 , 608 , more preferably it is indirectly mounted to the base 110 by way of a brushroll motor bracket 650 .
- the brushroll motor bracket 650 is a separate, relatively rigid part that attaches to the drive plate bearing 648 and the motor 626 to hold them in proper alignment, which may help increase belt life 646 .
- Such a construction is described in greater detail on co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/191,948, filed on Jul. 29, 2005, which is incorporated herein by reference.
- the drive plate 634 comprises a plurality of holes into which corresponding protrusions 638 ( FIG. 7 ) on the end of the brushroll 624 fit.
- corresponding protrusions 638 FIG. 7
- other arrangements that transmit torque from the drive plate 634 to the brushroll 624 may be used instead, such as a splined arrangement.
- the brushroll 624 can be quickly and easily removed from or attached to the drive plate 634 .
- the brushroll 624 may also include various flanges 652 that form a labyrinthine path between the brushroll 624 and the bearing 648 , and thereby help prevent the bearing 648 from being contaminated by dirt and debris.
- the brushroll 624 is attached to the mounting block 636 by a bushing 654 (or bearing, if desired) that fits into a recess in the mounting block 636 .
- the bushing 654 surrounds and rides on a second stub shaft 654 mounted in the end of the brushroll 624 .
- the end of the brushroll 624 may include a shroud 658 that fits over the mounting block 636 to help isolate the bushing 654 from dirt and debris.
- the mounting block 636 fits within a recess 660 formed in the lower base housing shell 608 .
- the mounting block 636 is secured in the base 110 by a mounting block retainer 662 that includes a clamping post 664 that presses the mounting block 636 into the recess 660 .
- the operation of the mounting block retainer 662 is illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B .
- the mounting block retainer 662 includes a tab 666 that fits into a corresponding opening 802 in the base 110 . With the tab 666 in place, the retainer 662 is pivoted upwards to press the mounting block 636 into the recess 660 .
- a catch 668 located at the end of the retainer 662 opposite the tab 666 is engaged by a hook 670 provided on a moveable brushroll retainer button 672 .
- the button 672 is biased by a spring 674 into the engaged position.
- To release the brushroll 624 the user presses the brushroll retainer button 672 to release the hook 670 from the catch 668 .
- the brushroll 624 can then be removed by withdrawing the mounting block 636 from the recess 660 and pulling the other end of the brushroll 624 out of engagement with the drive plate 634 . Installation is done by reversing the above process.
- the handheld vacuum cleaner 104 generally comprises upper and lower handheld housing shells 902 , 904 that form a hand grip 906 , a motor housing 908 , and a dirt cup receiving area 960 .
- the handheld 104 also includes an inlet nozzle 114 that preferably protrudes from the handheld 104 to help hold the handheld in the stick assembly 102 . If other hooks or mechanisms are provided to mount the handheld 104 in the stick assembly 102 (or if the handheld 104 is not intended for use in combination with a stick assembly 102 ), the inlet nozzle 114 may instead be flush with the housing exterior. It is also anticipated that the inlet nozzle 114 can comprise an extendible nozzle, as known in the art.
- a fan motor 910 and fan assembly 912 are encased between the upper and lower handheld housing shells 902 , 904 within the motor housing 908 .
- the fan motor 906 drives the fan assembly 912 to provide suction to clean floors and other surfaces, as known in the art.
- the fan assembly 912 comprises a fan impeller 914 encased between an air diffuser 916 and an impeller cover 918 .
- the cover 918 directs incoming air into the center of the impeller 914 and may include other features, such as contours or fixed vanes, to help improve performance.
- the diffuser 916 redirects air exiting the impeller 914 to help cool the motor 910 .
- An inlet cover 920 encases the impeller 914 and impeller cover 918 and attaches them to the diffuser 916 , and has an inlet hole 921 that forms the inlet to the fan assembly 912 .
- the inlet hole 921 preferably is formed with a smoothly rounded, tapering funnel shape that smoothly mates with a smoothly rounded, widening portion of the impeller cover 918 to avoid unnecessary turbulence as the air enters the impeller 918 .
- a grille 922 is attached to the inlet cover 920 to prevent large objects from entering the impeller 914 .
- the grille 922 has a domed shape. This provides two potential benefits. First, the three-dimensional shape helps increase the total area of the flow openings through the grille 922 . Second, the domed shape also makes the grille 922 stronger with respect to forces acting perpendicular to the fan assembly 912 . This additional strength permits the individual ribs that form the grille 922 to be made narrower, thereby further increasing the total area of the flow openings.
- the fan assembly 912 is encased by a fan cover 924 , which may be provided as a somewhat resilient thermoplastic material, to protect the fan assembly 912 and hold it in place in the handheld 104 .
- the fan motor 910 is mounted to the fan assembly 912 with the motor's drive shaft 926 attached to the impeller 914 .
- a battery bracket 928 is mounted around the fan motor 910 to hold a number of batteries 930 around the motor's peripheral wall.
- the diffuser 916 may also cool these batteries 930 during operation.
- the batteries 930 are cylindrical and oriented with their cylindrical axes perpendicular to the rotational axis of the fan motor 910 .
- one or more of the batteries 930 may instead be oriented with its cylindrical axis parallel to the rotating axis of the motor 910 , or at other angles that may be desirable to fit the batteries 930 in the handheld 104 , to provide a more compact construction, or to provide other benefits.
- the assembled motor 910 and fan assembly 912 are installed in the motor housing 908 portion of the handheld 104 .
- the motor housing 908 preferably is located immediately adjacent the hand grip 906 to improve the weight balance of the vacuum cleaner.
- the motor housing 908 is formed by the upper and lower handheld housing shells 902 , 904 , as well as a pair of inserts 932 that form the sides of the motor housing 908 .
- the inserts 932 may be replaced by integral moldings on one or both of the housing shells 902 , 904 .
- the fan cover 924 fits tightly within the motor housing 908 to support the fan assembly 912 and motor 910 , and may be made of a vibration-reducing material to reduce operating noise and vibrations.
- One or more foam or elastic pads 936 may be provided within the motor housing 908 to reduce noise and/or vibrations generated by the fan assembly 912 and motor 910 .
- One of these pads 936 preferably is located adjacent the vent holes 934 to inhibit viewing of the motor 910 and prevent objects from being ejected through the vent holes 934 should the motor experience a catastrophic failure.
- This pad 936 may also filter air exiting the motor housing 908 , or a separate post-motor filter may be provided to filter the exhaust air, if desired.
- batteries 930 may be arranged around the motor 910 to power the device. Batteries may also be located elsewhere in the handheld 104 . For example, additional batteries 938 may be stored in a chamber 940 in the grip 906 or elsewhere in the device.
- the batteries 930 , 938 are provided to power the fan motor 910 , and such operation is controlled by a handheld switch actuator 942 that projects through an opening 944 through the upper handheld housing shell 902 .
- the switch actuator 942 abuts against a switch cover 946 , which, in turn, is arranged to operate an electric switch 948 .
- switch arrangements may be used, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art.
- the electric switch 948 selectively connects the batteries 930 , 938 to the fan motor 910 to turn it on and off.
- the electric switch 948 has three positions: a power off position in which the motor 910 is inoperative, a partial power position in which the fan motor 910 is driven at a reduced power or speed, and a full power position in which the motor 910 is driven at a maximum operating capacity.
- Such operating states may be provided, for example, by wiring the electric switch 948 to connect a portion of the batteries 930 , 938 to the motor 910 to provide reduced power operation, and to connect all of the batteries 930 , 938 to the motor 910 to provide full power operation.
- a printed circuit board 950 or other control circuits may be used to assist with such control of the motor 910 and/or charging the batteries 930 , 938 .
- the handheld 104 includes electrical contacts 952 to charge the batteries.
- the electrical contacts 952 abut a corresponding electrical contact terminal 338 in the stick assembly 102 to receive power from an outlet or other source to charge the batteries 930 , 938 .
- the handheld 104 may also receive additional battery power from batteries (not shown) stored in the stick assembly 102 .
- the electrical contacts 952 may be adapted to receive an input plug directly from a wall charger, or may be omitted if non-rechargeable batteries are used.
- the handheld 104 of the shown embodiment may also include other electrical devices.
- a light 954 is provided to illuminate the handheld switch actuator 942 during charging and/or use. LEDs are preferred for this application, as they are vibration resistant and draw relatively little power.
- An additional light or lights may also be positioned on the handheld 104 to illuminate a surface being cleaned.
- a fuse 956 or circuit breaker may be provided in the handheld 104 (or the stick assembly 102 ) to protect the fan motor 910 or other electrical components during use and/or charging.
- the fuse 956 is provided in a protective sheath 958 , such as a PVC tube, but this is not required.
- the handheld 104 also includes a dirt cup receiving area 960 located between the inlet nozzle 114 and the motor housing 908 .
- the dirt collection assembly 1000 ( FIG. 10 ), an embodiment of which is described subsequently herein, fits into the receiving area 960 , and is engaged by snap engagement, latches, or other known mechanisms.
- the dirt cup is retained between the fan cover 924 and a protruding surface 962 located near the inlet nozzle 114 .
- the protruding surface 962 preferably is somewhat sloped so that it directs the dirt collection assembly 1000 towards the fan cover 924 as the dirt collection assembly 1000 is installed, which helps provide an airtight seal between the dirt collection assembly 1000 and the fan motor's inlet.
- a pair of cup hooks 964 are provided in the receiving area 960 to be engaged by corresponding latches 1002 ( FIG. 10 ) on the dirt collection assembly 1000 to retain the dirt collection assembly 1000 in place.
- the operation of these latches 1002 is described in more detail subsequently herein.
- the handheld 104 may include a receiving slot 974 that receives a corresponding protrusion 1104 ( FIG. 11 ) of the dirt collection assembly 1000 .
- the locations of the slot 974 and protrusion 1104 may be moved or reversed from the shown embodiment.
- the inlet nozzle 114 connects to a conduit 966 formed along the back portion of the dirt cup receiving area 960 .
- the conduit 966 is enclosed by a conduit cover 968 , which may be transparent to allow a user to see clogs in the conduit 966 and/or removable to allow access to the conduit 966 .
- the conduit ends at a nozzle outlet 970 through the cover 968 .
- the nozzle outlet 970 faces the dirt cup inlet 1004 ( FIG. 10 ) when the dirt collection assembly 1000 is installed.
- a seal 972 of any suitable sealing material, such as foam rubber or the like, may be provided around the nozzle outlet 970 to help form an airtight seal against the dirt cup inlet 1004 .
- the inlet nozzle 114 may be formed as part of the dirt collection assembly 1000 .
- An embodiment of such an alternative construction is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,122,796, which is incorporated herein by reference, in which an inlet nozzle is provided at the end of the dirt collection assembly.
- FIG. 10 a preferred embodiment of a dirt collection assembly 1000 that may be used with the present invention is shown and described.
- the illustrated dirt collection assembly 1000 uses cyclonic separation principles in conjunction with particle filters to remove dirt and debris from the working airflow, but it will be appreciated that this is not strictly necessary for all embodiments of the invention.
- the dirt collection assembly 1000 may instead comprise a conventional bag filter, planar filter and/or pleated filter, or may house a cyclone separator that does not use additional filters.
- the dirt collection assembly 1000 also may be permanently affixed to the handheld 104 , in which case one or more access covers may be provided on the handheld 104 to clean out the dirt collection chamber and/or filter(s).
- the dirt collection assembly 1000 comprises a cup-like dirt collection chamber 1006 having an open end 1008 that faces the fan cover 924 when it is installed in the handheld 104 .
- the general profile of the dirt collection chamber 1006 is approximately rectangular with rounded corners, but a more circular profile may be used. The rectangular profile allows greater dirt-holding capacity without increasing the overall diameter of the handheld 104 , and has been found to provide suitable cyclonic dirt separating performance.
- a dirt access port 1010 may be formed in the collection chamber 1006 , as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/544,927 (previously incorporated herein by reference). If such a port 1010 is provided, a suitable cover 1012 may be provided to cover the port 1010 when it is not in use.
- the cover may be fully removable, or rotatable about a pivot 1014 , as shown.
- a suitable seal 1102 may be provided to seal the cover 1012 where it contacts the outer perimeter of the port 1010 .
- the seal 1102 comprises a facing lip seal, but other seal configurations may be used instead.
- One or more resilient tabs may be used to hold the cover 1012 in the sealing position, or the seal itself may be used by projecting it into the port 1010 to form an interference fit when the cover 1012 is closed.
- side panels 1016 are mounted on opposite sides of the dirt collection chamber 1006 .
- the side panels 1016 have slightly indented or concave regions 1018 that facilitate gripping of the dirt collection assembly 1000 .
- Cup latches 1002 are mounted between each side panel 1016 and the wall of the dirt collection chamber 1006 .
- Each cup latch 1002 has a latch hook 1018 that is adapted to engage the corresponding cup hook 964 ( FIG. 9 ) in the handheld dirt cup receiving area 960 ( FIG. 9 ).
- the latches 1002 are mounted in a “see-saw” configuration in which each latch 1002 is pivotally mounted between the side panels 1016 and the collection chamber 1006 by a pair of pivots 1020 that fit in corresponding bosses 1022 on the collection chamber 1006 wall. Bushings 1024 may be provided to provide smooth and consistent pivoting action.
- Each latch 1002 is operated by a cup release button 1026 located on the opposite side of the pivots 1020 as the latch hook 1018 .
- a leaf spring 1028 is mounted to the latch 1002 to bias the button 1026 away from the collection chamber wall, and to bias the latch hook 1018 into engagement with the corresponding cup hook 964 .
- the majority of the cup latching arrangement is concealed between the side panels 1016 and the dirt collection chamber 1006 , but the cup release buttons 1026 are accessible through corresponding openings 1030 in the side panels 1016 .
- the dirt collection assembly 1000 preferably operates using cyclonic separation and conventional dirt filtration to remove particles and debris from the working airflow.
- the dirt collection assembly inlet 1004 is located offset from the centerline of the dirt collection chamber 1006 so that the incoming airflow enters in a somewhat tangential direction to initiate the formation of a vortex within the dirt collection chamber 1006 .
- the inlet 1004 may be on the dirt collection chamber centerline and a diverter (not shown) provided to redirect the airflow in a tangential direction.
- a cyclone insert 1032 which is releasably mounted in the dirt collection chamber as best shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 .
- the cyclone insert 1032 (if provided) may comprise a structure as simple as a conical or frustoconical flat or pleated filter, or a simple air guide that helps guide the incoming airflow around the periphery of the dirt collection chamber 1006 to create and maintain cyclone separation.
- the cyclone insert 1032 comprises a structure that both directs the airflow in a cyclonic pattern, and provides a first filtration stage for the incoming airflow.
- the cyclone insert 1032 comprises a cylindrical or frustoconical airflow receiving area 1034 ( FIG. 10 ) through which the incoming airflow passes as it enters the dirt collection assembly 1000 .
- the upper end of the airflow receiving area 1034 (that is, the end towards the open end 1008 of the dirt collection chamber 1006 ) is bounded by an upper radially-extending flange 1036 that fits relatively closely to the inner wall of the dirt collection chamber 1006 .
- the lower end of the airflow receiving area 1034 may be provided with a similar lower radially-extending flange 1038 that extends partially around the receiving area 1034 to contain the incoming airflow within the receiving area 1034 for a time before being deposited into the remainder of the dirt collection chamber 1006 .
- One end of the airflow receiving area 1034 preferably is blocked by a wall 1037 ( FIG. 10A ) extending between the upper and lower flanges 1036 , 1038 , which helps prevent the air from flowing in the “wrong” direction, but is not strictly necessary.
- the airflow receiving area 1034 wraps partially around the cyclone insert 1032 , and preferably terminates at a first downward ramp 1040 that extends into the dirt collection chamber 1006 from the upper flange 1036 .
- a second downward ramp 1042 or lip may also be provided at the end of the lower flange 1038 .
- the first downward ramp 1040 helps direct the incoming airflow into the portion of the collection chamber 1006 below the lower flange 1038
- the second downward ramp 1042 drives circulating air already below the lower flange 1038 further down into the dirt collection chamber 1006 to enhance dirt separation. Both of these ramp features may improve the airflow efficiency of the device.
- the filter cage 1044 includes a number of large openings 1045 through its sidewall, in which appropriate mesh screens (not shown) are placed, such as by overmolding, to provide a coarse particle filtration stage.
- appropriate mesh screens not shown
- the cyclone insert 1032 may have additional openings 1046 (with corresponding screens) through the upper wall that forms the airflow receiving area 1034 .
- a lower opening 1048 is also provided through the bottom of the filter cage 1044 .
- the lower opening 1048 may optionally remain fully open (i.e., does not have a screen over it) to thus allow dirt from the fine particle filter to be deposited into the dirt collection chamber 1006 .
- FIGS. 10 through 10 B the connection of the dirt collection assembly 1000 to the rest of the handheld 104 is shown.
- the dirt collection assembly 1000 mounts to the handheld 104 such that the dirt cup inlet 1004 mates with the outlet 970 of the inlet nozzle 114 .
- the conduit 966 between the inlet 114 and outlet 970 is shown in broken lines.
- the conduit 966 preferably is formed with a somewhat curved shape that redirects the air entering the inlet 114 to flow somewhat tangentially into the dirt collection chamber 1006 .
- the outlet 970 is positioned off-center with respect to the symmetrical centerline of the handheld 104 .
- This shape of the conduit 966 and other parts preferably are contoured to minimize any turbulence caused by redirecting the airflow into the dirt collection chamber 1006 .
- the airflow within the dirt collection assembly 1000 is shown.
- the various flanges and other structures (e.g., 1036 , 1038 , 1040 , 1042 ) of the cyclone insert 1032 are shown directing the incoming air in a swirling motion within the dirt collection chamber 1006 , as shown by the arrows.
- the air flows helically around the cyclone insert 1032 , it gradually enters radially through the openings 1048 and subsequently flows in the axial direction inside the cyclone insert 1032 to the fan assembly 912 .
- the dirt collection assembly 1000 of a preferred embodiment also includes a fine particle filter assembly 1050 that can be releasably inserted into an open upper end 1052 of the cyclone insert 1032 to fit within the insert.
- the fine particle filter assembly 1050 may comprise a simple fabric or pleated filter that is designed to capture fine particles than may pass through the coarse filter meshes of the cyclone insert 1032 , as known in the art.
- the fine particle filter assembly 1050 comprises a flexible filter that can be repeatedly retracted and extended to remove entrapped particles from its surface.
- the fine particle filter assembly 1050 comprises a frustoconical flexible filter 1054 mounted to a sealing flange 1056 , and a mechanism for retracting and extending the flexible filter 1054 to clean the filter.
- the fine particle filter assembly 1050 may fit wholly or partially within the cyclone insert 1032 . If desired, snap tabs 1053 , hooks, bayonet fittings, threads or other attachment devices may be provided to hold the fine particle filter assembly 1050 in the cyclone insert. It will also be appreciated that the fine particle filter assembly 1050 may be located adjacent or downstream of the cyclone insert without fitting therein.
- the flexible filter 1054 preferably is mounted to a cylindrical or frustoconical protrusion 1058 that extends from the surface of the flange 1056 .
- Such attachment may be by adhesives, stitching, overmolding or other suitable mechanisms or means, or combinations thereof.
- Other attachment arrangements may be used, but the foregoing arrangement attaches the flexible filter 1054 to the flange 1056 such that forces applied to extend the filter away from the flange 1056 are carried in shear, thereby potentially reducing the likelihood that the filter 1054 will become detached from the flange 1056 .
- the flexible filter 1054 also may be removably attached to the flange 1056 by mounting the filter 1054 to a mounting collar (not shown), and providing mating attachment surfaces (such as bayonet fittings, snaps or threads) between the mounting collar and the sealing flange 1056 .
- a flange opening 1057 passes through the center of the sealing flange 1056 to provide an airflow path out of the dirt collection assembly 1000 .
- the frustoconical protrusion 1058 surrounds the flange opening 1057 such that air must pass through the flexible filter 1054 before exiting the dirt collection assembly 1000 .
- the filter retracting and extending mechanism comprises a snap spring 1060 located within the flexible filter 1054 , and positioned to abut and extend from the sealing flange 1056 to bias the filter away from the flange 1056 , as shown in FIG. 11 .
- a spring handle 1062 is provided to pull the spring 1060 towards the flange 1056 .
- the spring handle 1062 passes through and is supported by a cylindrical guide 1064 , which is supported in the flange opening 1057 by inwardly-extending arms 1066 .
- the snap spring 1060 is attached to the end of the spring handle 1062 by way of a disc-shaped end seal 1068 , which is captured on the end of the handle 1062 by a snap ring 1070 or other attachment such as threads, press-fitment, or the like.
- the snap spring 1060 is thus captured between the end seal 1068 and the sealing flange 1056 , and withdrawing the spring handle 1062 causes the snap spring 1060 to compress towards the flange 1056 .
- the end seal 1068 seals the lower opening 1048 of the filter cage 1044 .
- sufficient residual force preferably remains in the snap spring 1060 to prevent the end seal 1068 from being pulled out of sealing engagement over the lower opening 1048 by suction forces generated by the vacuum.
- the end seal 1068 and snap spring 1060 may be designed such that some air leakage though the bottom opening 1048 may be intentionally provided to allow air to pass to the flexible filter 1054 should the coarse filter screens become occluded.
- the snap spring 1060 preferably is shaped to generally correspond with the shape of the flexible filter 1054 when it the snap spring 1060 is extended. In this manner, it can help support the flexible filter 1054 and prevent it from collapsing when a suction force is applied to generate the working airflow.
- the end of the flexible filter 1054 opposite the sealing flange 1056 is attached to one or both of the snap spring 1060 and the end seal 1068 by any suitable means, or may simply be captured between the end of the snap spring 1060 and the end seal 1068 .
- the user can pull and release the spring handle 1062 to compress and extend the snap spring 1060 , respectively. Doing so causes the flexible filter 1054 to collapse and fold in on itself, which helps release dirt and debris that may be adhered to the flexible filter 1054 or embedded within the filter's surface.
- the spring handle 1062 is released when the snap spring 1060 is compressed, the snap spring 1060 will rapidly extend to apply a sudden tension to the flexible filter 1054 to help release dirt and debris by the generation of sudden inertial forces in the filter surface.
- the snap spring 1060 is compressed, dirt and debris blocked by the flexible filter 1054 can fall through the bottom opening 1048 . If the fine filter assembly 1050 is still attached to the dirt collection assembly 1000 , such released dirt will fall into the remainder of the dirt collection chamber 1006 .
- a preferred embodiment of the fine filter assembly 1050 also may include a retainer assembly 1072 ( FIG. 11 ), which is provided to prevent the fine filter assembly 1050 from pulling free of the dirt collection chamber 1006 when the spring handle 1062 is pulled to compress the snap spring 1060 .
- a preferred retainer assembly 1072 comprises a pair of release arms 1074 that are captured in place on the upper surface of the sealing flange 1056 by a support ring 1076 .
- the support ring 1076 is attached to the sealing flange 1056 by a cylindrical collar 1078 that snaps over a corresponding cylindrical collar 1080 protruding from the sealing flange 1056 .
- a pair of pins 1082 extend from the support ring 1076 towards the sealing flange 1056 to fit in corresponding holes 1084 at one end of each release arms 1074 .
- the release arms 1074 are free to pivot within the space between the support ring 1076 and the sealing flange 1056 .
- Each release arm 1074 has a radially-extending tab 1086 that is arranged to fit into a corresponding slot 1088 in the dirt collection chamber 1006 , and a spring 1090 is located between the ends of the release arms 1074 opposite the pivot pins 1082 to bias the release arms 1074 and their tabs 1086 into the slots 1088 .
- Finger tabs 1092 are provided on the release arms 1074 to allow a user to pull the release arms 1074 against the spring 1090 to release the tabs 1086 from the slots 1088 and remove the fine filter assembly 1050 from the dirt collection chamber 1006 .
- this sealed arrangement is provided primarily by the sealing flange 1056 , which includes a perimeter lip seal 1094 that seals against the inner wall of the dirt collection chamber 1006 when installed therein.
- the cylindrical collar 1080 to which the fine filter retainer assembly 1072 is attached is arranged to abut and/or surround the fan cover 924 to provide a seal between the dirt collection assembly 1000 and the fan assembly 912 .
- the cyclone insert 1032 abuts a surface of the sealing flange 1056 to form a seal therebetween that prevents or inhibits air from bypassing the cyclone insert 1032 .
- a facing lip seal or o-ring (not shown) may be provided between the sealing flange 1056 and the cyclone insert 1032 to improve the seal between these parts.
- FIGS. 11A-11G Various additional examples of such flexible filter assemblies or filter units are shown in FIGS. 11A-11G and are described below.
- the vacuum cleaner 1100 comprises a housing 1102 having a handle 1104 , an on/off-switch 1106 and an inlet 1108 for suction of dust laden air.
- the suction is generated by a motor fan unit 1110 arranged in the housing 1102 .
- air flows from the inlet 1108 of the vacuum cleaner 1100 , into an inlet opening 1112 of a dust container 1114 , through a filter unit 1116 , past the motor fan unit 1110 , and the air exits the vacuum cleaner 1100 through outlets 1118 .
- dust laden air flows through the filter unit 1116 during operation and the air is filtered by the filter unit 1116 which traps dust, fibers, hair, sand and other particles. Some of the vacuumed particles adhere to the filter unit 1116 , but many are trapped in a lowermost part of the dust container 1114 .
- the dust container 1114 is emptied, for example, by opening a lid 1122 belonging to the dust container 1114 and by allowing the dust to exit the lid opening, or by removing the dust container 1114 from the housing 1102 and allowing dust to escape from an opening 1124 of the dust container 1114 .
- the filter unit 1116 comprises an air permeable and flexible filter body 1126 having the form of a tubular bag with an open end, or top portion 1128 , integrated with a filter attachment member 1130 .
- a dust removing assembly 1132 comprising a rod 1134 and a spring 1136 is arranged inside the filter body 1126 , and an end portion 1138 of the rod 1134 is connected to a closed portion 1140 of the filter body 1126 .
- the rod 1134 is supported by a support part 1142 integrated with the filter attachment member 1130 via at least one arm 1146 .
- the support part 1142 forms a hole for the rod 1134 .
- the filter body 1126 is straightened by a biasing force applied by the spring 1136 which is arranged around the rod 1134 between a rod protrusion 1148 and the support part 1142 of the attachment member 1130 .
- the attachment member 1130 comprises holes 1150 that are configured to receive therethrough corresponding pegs (not shown) that extend from the housing 1102 or from the dust container 1114 in order to form a bayonet joint.
- Resilient sealing members 1152 , 1154 are arranged on the attachment member 1130 for providing an air tight seal between the housing 1102 and/or the dust container 1114 .
- the attachment member 1130 may also be connected by connecting the dust container 1114 to the housing 1102 and therebetween fitting and pressing the attachment member 1130 , or the attachment member 1130 may be attached to the housing 1102 or the dust container 1114 by an interference fit or snap fit associated with the respective connecting part.
- the filter unit 1116 is attached to the dust container 1114 and when the filter unit 1116 is to be cleaned, the dust container 1114 is removed from the housing 1102 with the filter unit 1116 still attached. Subsequently a top portion 1156 of the rod 1134 is moved in the direction of the arrow D for collapsing and expanding the filter unit 1116 , or more specifically, contracting and straightening the flexible filter body 1126 as illustrated in FIG. 11D . During this operation, dust falls off the filter unit 1116 and, since it is still attached to the dust container 1114 , into the dust container 1114 without spreading dust to the surroundings.
- the outer surface of the filter body 1126 i.e. the surface facing the interior of the dust container 1114 , is preferably sleek for preventing hair and fibers from adhering to the filter body 1126 . Any known filter material with a sleek surface may be used for manufacturing the filter body 1126 .
- the filter unit 1116 comprises an air permeable and flexible fine particle-filter body 1158 having the form of a tubular bag with its open end, or top portion 1160 , integrated with a filter attachment member 1130 .
- a flexible cleaning and/or sealing part 1162 is attached to a closed portion 1164 of the particle-filter body 1158 .
- the filter unit 1116 further comprises a coarse pre-filter body 1166 which has an opening 1168 in an end portion, encloses the particle-filter body 1158 , and is connected to the attachment member 1130 . It should be noted that the coarse pre-filter body 1166 filters large particles such as hair and fibers, while the particle-filter body 1158 filters smaller particles that pass through the coarse filter 1166 .
- the coarse pre-filter body 1166 is detachable from the attachment member 1130 , and the coarse filter body 1166 may incorporate a separate attachment member (not shown) for attachment to any of the attachment member 1130 , the housing 1102 , and/or the dust container 1114 .
- a dust removing assembly 1132 comprising a rod 1134 and a spring 1136 is arranged inside the particle-filter body 1158 , and the inner portion of the rod 1134 is connected to the closed portion 1164 of the particle-filter body 1158 in a manner corresponding to the filter according to the first embodiment.
- the spring 1136 presses the cleaning/sealing part 1163 towards the lower part of the coarse pre-filter body 1166 and thus seals the opening 1168 during operation of the vacuum cleaner 1100 .
- the filter unit 1116 is attached to the dust container 1114 or the housing 1102 in a manner similar to the attachment of the first embodiment of the filter unit 1116 .
- the dust container 1114 is removed from the housing 1102 with the filter unit 1116 still being attached.
- the top portion 1156 of the rod 1134 is then moved in the direction of the arrow D for collapsing and expanding the filter unit 1116 , or more particularly, contracting and straightening the particle-filter body 1158 as illustrated in FIGS. 11E-11F .
- dust falls off the particle-filter 1158 , out through the opening 1168 and into the dust container 1114 .
- the interior of the pre-filter 1166 may be scraped by the cleaning/sealing part 1162 .
- FIG. 11G illustrates a filter unit 1116 according to a third embodiment.
- the filter unit 1116 comprises a spring 1170 arranged inside the filter body 1126 to support the filter body 1126 .
- the spring 1170 is at one end connected to a bottom portion 1140 of the filter body 1126 and is at its other end connected to the attachment member 1130 .
- the spring 1170 has a conical shape corresponding to the straightened shape of the filter body 1126 , as illustrated in the figure.
- the rod 1134 of the third embodiment may be omitted and replaced by a weight (not shown) arranged in a bottom portion 1140 of the filter body 1126 .
- the filter unit 1116 is to be shaken for contracting and straightening the filter body 1126 .
- a weight may be used in any combination of the first and second embodiment.
- the spring 1170 according to the third embodiment may also be combined with any of the filters according to the first and second embodiment.
- the spring 1136 of the second embodiment may, of course, be omitted to provide yet another embodiment where the spring 1170 according to the third embodiment is arranged within the particle-filter body 1158 , and where the spring 1170 is connected to the bottom portion 1164 of the particle-filter body 1158 and to the attachment member 1130 .
- the rod 1134 of the second embodiment may be omitted and replaced by a weight (not shown) arranged in a bottom portion 1164 of the particle-filter body 1158 .
- a rib (not shown) may be integrated with the filter unit 1116 and extend radially towards the dust container 1114 . Movement of the rib allows additional dust to be removed from the dust container 1114 .
- the filter body or bodies and filter attachment member are integrated, for example, by bonding, gluing, melting or sewing the filter body to a surface of the attachment member, by enclosing the open end of the filter body in the attachment member, by clamping or melting the attachment member to the filter body.
- the filter body and attachment member are circular as illustrated in the figures.
- the filter body and attachment member may, for example, be rectangular, triangular or have any other suitable shape.
- the attachment member may have any suitable shape for attachment to the dust container and for support of the dust removing assembly and may, for example, comprise a disc with attachment holes and a support hole for the rod.
- the attachment member is extruded, and preferably made of a plastic material such as polyethylene or any other similar material.
- the spring may be replaced by a suitable elastic element that will provide a corresponding function. It is also possible to connect an elastic element, such as a spring or a rubber band, to the attachment member and the top portion of the rod.
- the described spring is only one method of straightening the respective filter bodies.
- Other methods for straightening the filter include an interference fit or a snap-fit between the rod and the filter attachment member. When fixed to the attachment member, the rod provides a desired, straightened shape of the filter body. When the filter is to be cleaned, or the rod moved, the interference fit is manually overcome by a user.
- the filter units of FIGS. 11B-11G can be integrated into a cyclone insert to form a cyclonic filter unit 1312 .
- the filter unit 1312 comprises a radial wall 1302 for preventing dust from exiting through the opening 1112 of the dust container 1306 when the vacuum cleaner 1300 is held with its opening 1308 in an upward direction.
- An air-flow guiding vane 1310 is arranged on the exterior of the filter unit 1312 for enhancing the cyclonic effect around the filter unit 1312 during operation.
- Several air-flow guiding vanes may be used, and the vanes may also be arranged on the interior of the dust container 1306 or on the housing 1314 .
- a support frame 1316 may also be arranged to provide greater support for the filter unit 1312 .
- the charging stand 1400 provides a storage location for the vacuum 100 , and, if the vacuum 100 is operated by rechargeable batteries, may also provide a charging system that connects to and charges the rechargeable batteries.
- the charging stand 1400 preferably comprises a base 1402 that is adapted to stand on a floor or other surface, and an upright 1404 that extends upwardly from the base 1402 .
- a hook 1406 protrudes from the front surface of the upright 1404 to engage a corresponding slot 380 ( FIG.
- the upright 1404 may be constructed separately and removable from the base 1402 and adapted to mount to a wall or other generally vertical surface.
- One or more lights 1420 may also be provided to indicate, for example, that the device is charging or connected to a wall outlet.
- the charging stand 1400 also provides storage for one or more cleaning accessories or tools associated with the vacuum cleaner 100 .
- an upholstery brush 1412 and crevice tool 1414 are stored in corresponding openings 1416 , 1418 in the front face of the upright 1404 . Snaps, hooks, or other mechanisms may be used to retain the brush 1412 and crevice tool 1414 in their respective openings 1416 , 1418 .
- the brush 1412 and crevice tool 1414 can be inserted in the handheld inlet nozzle 114 for use therewith.
- the tools 1412 , 1414 can be stored such that they are out of sight when the vacuum cleaner 100 is mounted on the charging stand 1400 , which may provide a more desirable aesthetic appearance and help prevent loss of the tools 1412 , 1414 .
- FIGS. 15 A-D which all provide a base 1502 having an upright 1504 and mounting hook 1506 , as described with reference to FIGS. 14 A-B.
- tools 1508 and the like may be stored in an opening 1510 in the base 1502 that may be covered by a door 1512 .
- the tools 1508 are stored in openings 1514 located on the sides of the charging stand.
- the tools are stored in compartments 1516 in the side of the base 1502 .
- the tools also may be stored on posts that extend from the charging stand, rather than being recessed openings. Other variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein.
- the convertible stick vacuum 100 may be adapted to be suspended from a charging stand, such as those disclosed herein, it will also be appreciated that the stick vacuum could be constructed such that it can stand on its own.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Robotics (AREA)
- Electric Vacuum Cleaner (AREA)
- Nozzles For Electric Vacuum Cleaners (AREA)
Abstract
A vacuum cleaner having a handle with a handle air passage, a base attached to a first end of the handle by an articulating joint and having a base inlet positioned to face a surface to be cleaned, a base air passage extending from the base inlet and past the articulated joint by a flexible hose and to the handle air passage, a dirt collection assembly associated with the handle and in fluid communication with the handle air passage, a fan associated with the handle and in fluid communication with the handle air passage, and a motor associated with the handle and adapted to drive the fan to thereby generate an airflow through the base inlet, flexible hose, handle air passage, and dirt collection assembly. The flexible hose has a generally rectangular cross-section along a substantial portion thereof.
Description
- This patent claims priority to Swedish Application No. 0600821-3 filed on Apr. 10, 2006; Swedish Application No. 0600820-5, filed on Apr. 10, 2006, Swedish Application No. 0700143-1, filed on Jan. 19, 2007, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/889,857, filed on Jan. 26, 2007. The foregoing priority references are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
- The present invention relates generally to convertible stick vacuum cleaners having a removable handheld vacuum component, free standing handheld vacuum cleaners, upright vacuum cleaners and various improvements to such devices and other types of vacuum cleaners.
- Electric vacuum cleaners are in widespread use in homes, offices and other places where quick and efficient floor cleaning is desired. Such vacuum cleaners are provided in various configurations, such as upright, canister, “stick,” and “powerhead” designs. Some vacuum cleaners have been provided in convertible form, in which they are capable of being converted from one form of vacuum cleaner to another. For example, some upright vacuum cleaners are convertible to operate in canister form, and vice-versa. It is also known to provide stick vacuum cleaners that have removable handheld components. Such a device is shown in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/544,927, which is incorporated herein by reference. Other similar devices include the vacuum cleaner shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,839,934 (which also has a removable upper handle element), 6,964,082, and D307,657, which are all incorporated herein by reference.
- The suction efficiency of these and other vacuum cleaners is determined both by, among other things, the efficiency of the vacuum source and the suction losses that occur in the air passages through the vacuum cleaner. Avoiding air flow losses in the air passages is important in all kinds of vacuum cleaners in order to achieve a high suction efficiency and reduce energy consumption. However, it is especially important in vacuum cleaners having an electric motor powered by batteries. In such a case it is not a preferred option to compensate for air flow losses in the air passages by increasing the motor power, because this will shorten battery life and necessitate more frequent recharging. Alternatively, the battery power capacity could be increased by providing more batteries in the vacuum cleaner, but this can increase the cost and weight of the vacuum cleaner. It has been found that reducing airflow losses is also particularly important in stick vacuum cleaners and so-called 2-in-1 vacuum cleaners (stick vacuums with removable handheld vacuums), which often have a relatively long airflow path.
- While the foregoing devices, and others similar to those, have been successfully used in the marketplace, there still exists a need to provide alternative designs having improved ergonomics, performance, ease of use, ease of manufacture, or other benefits and/or features.
- The following summary is not intended to limit the invention set forth in the claims in any manner.
- In a one aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a vacuum cleaner having a handle having a handle air passage extending therein, a base attached to a first end of the handle by an articulating joint and having a base inlet positioned to face a surface to be cleaned, a base air passage extending from the base inlet and past the articulated joint by a flexible hose, and to the handle air passage, a dirt collection assembly associated with the handle and in fluid communication with the handle air passage, a fan associated with the handle and in fluid communication with the handle air passage, and a motor associated with the handle and adapted to drive the fan to thereby generate an airflow through the base inlet, flexible hose, handle air passage, and dirt collection assembly. The flexible hose has a generally rectangular cross-section along a substantial portion thereof.
- In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a vacuum cleaner having a handle having a handle air passage extending therein, a base attached to a first end of the handle by an articulating joint and having a base inlet positioned to face a surface to be cleaned, a base air passage extending from the base inlet and past the articulated joint by a flexible hose having a generally rectangular cross-section along a substantial portion thereof and to the handle air passage, and a handheld unit selectively removable from the handle. The handheld unit has a handheld unit inlet, a dirt collection assembly, a fan, and a motor. The motor is adapted to drive the fan to thereby generate an airflow through the handheld unit inlet and the dirt collection assembly. The handheld unit inlet is in fluid communication with the handle air passage when the handheld unit is attached to the handle, and when so positioned, the motor is adapted to drive the fan to thereby generate an airflow through the base air passage, the handle air passage, the handheld unit inlet, and the dirt collection assembly.
- In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a vacuum cleaner having a handle having a handle air passage extending therein, a base attached to a first end of the handle by an articulating joint and base having a base inlet positioned to face a surface to be cleaned, an air passage extending from the base inlet and past the articulated joint by way of a flexible hose and to the handle air passage, a dirt collection assembly in fluid communication with the handle air passage, a fan assembly in fluid communication with the handle air passage, and a motor adapted to drive the fan assembly to thereby generating an airflow through the base inlet, the flexible hose, the handle air passage, and the dirt collection assembly. The flexible hose has a non-ovate cross-section along a substantial portion thereof.
- Other embodiments, features and variations are also included within the scope of the invention, as will be apparent from studying the appended claims.
- Various embodiments of inventions are illustrated in the appended drawings, in which like reference numbers are used to describe like parts. The embodiments shown in the drawings are exemplary embodiments of the invention, and not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.
-
FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a convertible stick vacuum of the present invention, shown with the handheld vacuum attached to the stick assembly. -
FIG. 1B is an isometric view of the convertible stick vacuum ofFIG. 1A , shown with the handheld removed from the stick assembly. -
FIG. 1C is an isometric rear view of the convertible stick vacuum ofFIG. 1A , shown with the handheld removed from the stick assembly. -
FIG. 2A is a fragmented isometric view of the convertible stick vacuum ofFIG. 1A , shown with the handheld vacuum resting in a partially-removed position. -
FIG. 2B is a fragmented isometric view of the convertible stick vacuum ofFIG. 1A , shown with the handheld vacuum removed from the stick. -
FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the stick handle ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 3A is a partially exploded view of the vacuum cleaner ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 3B is a fragmented, partially disassembled view of the hose and housing shown inFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 3C is a partially cut away view of the vacuum cleaner ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 4 is a fragmented rear isometric view of the grip portion of the stick handle ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 4A is a fragmented rear isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the grip portion of the stick handle ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 4B is a longitudinal section through a slip-resistant insert ofFIG. 4A . -
FIG. 4C is a cross sectional cutaway view through an alternative embodiment of a stick handle having a “cast-on” strip of a slip-resistant insert. -
FIG. 4D is a side view of a vacuum cleaner leaned against a table top. -
FIG. 4E is a side view of a vacuum cleaner leaned against a wall. -
FIGS. 5A and 5B are front and side cutaway views, respectively, of the handheld latch of the embodiment ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 6 is an exploded isometric view of the nozzle base ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 7 is a schematic front view of the removable brushroll of the embodiment ofFIG. 1A . -
FIGS. 8A and 8B are cutaway side views of the nozzle base ofFIG. 1A , showing the brushroll removal mechanism in the latched and unlatched positions, respectively. -
FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the handheld portion of the stick vacuum ofFIG. 1A , shown without the dirt collection assembly. -
FIG. 9A is a partially cut away view of the motor and fan assembly ofFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the dirt collection assembly of the handheld vacuum ofFIG. 1A . -
FIGS. 10A and 10B are partially exploded isometric views of the handheld vacuum ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 10C is a partially cut away top view of the dirt collection assembly of the handheld vacuum ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 11 is a cutaway side view of the dirt collection assembly of the handheld vacuum ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 11A is a cutaway side view of an alternate embodiment of the handheld vacuum ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 11B is a cutaway side view of one embodiment of a filter unit of the handheld vacuum ofFIG. 11A . -
FIG. 11C is a side view of the filter unit ofFIG. 11B . -
FIG. 11D is a cutaway side view of the filter unit ofFIG. 11B in a contracted state. -
FIG. 11E is a cutaway side view of another embodiment of a filter unit of the handheld vacuum ofFIG. 11A . -
FIG. 11F is a cutaway side view of the filter unit ofFIG. 11E in a contracted state. -
FIG. 11G is a cutaway side view of yet another embodiment of a filter unit of the handheld vacuum ofFIG. 11A . -
FIG. 12 is a cutaway top view of the dirt collection assembly of the handheld vacuum ofFIG. 1A , as shown along line XII-XII ofFIG. 11 . -
FIGS. 13A and 13B are isometric views of the cyclone insert of the dirt collection assembly ofFIG. 10 , shown with the coarse screen filters removed. -
FIG. 13C is an exploded view of the handheld portion of the stick vacuum ofFIG. 11A , shown with a filter unit incorporating cyclonic airflow. -
FIGS. 14A and 14B are isometric views of a charging stand for the convertible stick vacuum ofFIG. 1A , shown with accessory tools stored therein, and with the accessory tools removed, respectively. -
FIGS. 15A-15D are isometric views of alternative storage stands for stick vacuum cleaners. - The present disclosure generally provides a novel convertible stick vacuum cleaner having various unique features. The devices and features described herein provide a number of different inventions that may be used together, separately, or in combination. While the features described herein and illustrated in the accompanying figures are shown in the context of a convertible (i.e., 2-in-1) stick vacuum cleaner, it will be understood that aspects of the invention can also be practiced with a wet or dry extractor, an upright or canister vacuum cleaner, other stick vacuums and electric brooms, a central vacuum cleaner, or with other types of vacuum cleaners or other cleaning devices. As used herein, the expressions “vacuum cleaner” and “vacuum” are intended to include any cleaning device that uses a suction source to remove dirt or other undesirable substances from surfaces, regardless of whether it includes specialty features, such as a fluid deposition system and fluid recovery tank (as in wet extractors), and regardless of what type of dirt separation system it uses (such as cyclonic, bag, or dirt cup separation systems). These and other variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the present disclosure.
- Referring now to
FIGS. 1A through 1C , a preferredconvertible stick vacuum 100 of the present invention includes astick assembly 102 and a handheld vacuum (or simply “handheld”) 104 that can be mounted and dismounted from thestick assembly 102. Thestick assembly 102 comprises ahandle 103, which has agrip portion 106 located at one end thereof and a mountingportion 108 located along the length of thehandle 103. Thestick assembly 102 also preferably includes abase 110, which is attached to the end of thehandle 103 opposite thegrip portion 106. Thegrip portion 106 is positioned and shaped to be grasped by a user to manipulate the device when the handheld 104 is attached to thestick assembly 102 to thereby operate the device in the stick vacuum mode, as shown inFIG. 1A . The mountingportion 108 is provided with a mounting recess 112 (FIG. 1B ) or other mounting structure to which the handheld 104 is attached. Thebase 110 is attached to thehandle 103 either by a rigid attachment or by one or more pivots, and may be removable for use without it. - The handheld 104 comprises a vacuum motor that draws dirt-laden air into a
handheld inlet nozzle 114. When the handheld 104 is connected to thehandle 103, theinlet nozzle 114 is connected with a inlet in thebase 110. The handheld exhausts the airflow through one or moreexhaust outlets outlets 120 on the portion of the handheld 104 that faces thehandle 103, in which case airflowopenings 122 may be formed through thehandle 103 to allow airflow from such anoutlet 120 to pass relatively freely to the environment. Of course, where the stick vacuum is not provided with a separate handheld portions, such airflow openings on the rear side of the stick may still be desirable. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 2A and 2B , the handheld 104 may be retained in thestick assembly 102 by any suitable arrangement of latches, catches, hooks, or the like. For example, in the shown embodiment, the mountingrecess 112 comprises a cavity that is shaped to generally follow the contours of the bottom of the handheld 104 so that the handheld 104 fits into thestick assembly 102 to provide the assembled device with a smooth and integrated appearance. The handheld 104 is retained in therecess 112 at its lower end by thehandheld inlet nozzle 114, which protrudes from the surface of the handheld 104 and hooks into a corresponding inlet conduit opening 202 in therecess 112. The inlet conduit opening 202 is in fluid communication with an inlet located in thebase 110, which is described in more detail subsequently herein. The upper end of the handheld 104 is retained in therecess 112 by a moveable docking latch 352 (seeFIGS. 3, 5A and 5B), which engages a latch receptacle 204 (FIG. 2A ) at or near the end of the handheld 104. In this configuration, the handheld 104 is attached to thestick assembly 102 by sliding theinlet nozzle 114 into the inlet conduit opening 202 and tilting the handheld 104 backwards into therecess 112 until thedocking latch 352 engages thelatch receptacle 204. To remove the handheld 104, thedocking latch 352 is actuated, such as by depressing one or moredocking latch buttons 116 on thestick assembly 102, to disengage thedocking latch 352 from thelatch receptacle 204, at which point the handheld 104 can be grasped and withdrawn from the mountingreceptacle 112. While the foregoing attachment regime is preferred, any other suitable manner of attaching the handheld 104 to thestick assembly 102 may be used. - Referring specifically to
FIGS. 2A and 2B , the present invention is preferably constructed with a safety catch that holds the handheld 104 in thestick assembly 102 in a partially-removed state, as shown inFIG. 2A . The safety catch is helpful to prevent the handheld 104 from falling, should the user disengage the hook or other retaining mechanism without being prepared to take control of the handheld 104. To this end, the mountingrecess 112 preferably comprises a pair ofclips 206 that fit into correspondingdetents 208 on each side of the handheld (only oneclip 206 and onedetent 208 are fully visible). Theclips 206 are resiliently biased towards thedetents 208, such as by being mounted on cantilevered or other flexible portions of the housing that forms the mountingrecess 112, by being spring biased, or by other known mechanisms. Theclips 206 are positioned such that they fit into and/or engage thedetents 208 when the handheld 104 has been partially removed from the mountingrecess 112. In this position, theclips 206 anddetents 208 cooperate by their engagement to help prevent the handheld 104 from falling out of thestick assembly 102. To fully remove the handheld 104, the user pulls on the handheld 104 to overcome the retaining force between theclips 206 anddetents 208. - While the foregoing arrangement is preferred, other safety catch arrangements may alternatively be used. For example, the locations of the
clips 206 anddetents 208 may be reversed, or thedetents 208 may be replaced by rigidly- or resiliently-mounted clips. The safety catch may also comprise a latch that the user must specifically actuate to remove the handheld 104. It should also be apparent from the foregoing disclosure that the preferred safety catch may not necessarily prevent the handheld 104 from falling out of thestick assembly 102 under all conditions, but instead is useful for this function only when the device is operated in the normally-expected manner—namely, when the stick handle 103 is generally vertically oriented. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , an embodiment of astick handle 103 of the present invention is shown in exploded view. In this embodiment, the stick handle 103 is made of two main parts, anupper handle 302, and alower handle 304, to allow it to be partially disassembled for more compact storage and shipping. While preferred, this two-part construction is not required, and constructions having a single main part or more than two main parts may be used in other embodiments. - The
upper handle 302 is generally formed by front and rear upperhandle housing shells upper handle 302 is shaped to form thegrip portion 106 of thestick assembly 102. If desired, some or all of thegrip portion 106 may be formed with grip-enhancing features such asdimples 310. Thegrip portion 106 may also be painted or overmolded with a rubber or thermoplastic material that provides a comfortable or tactile gripping surface, as known in the art. - The
upper handle 302 also may include one or more features to help prevent the vacuum cleaner from slipping on surfaces against which it might be leaned for temporary storage. For example, as shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , a slip-resistant insert 312 may be attached or molded to the back of the rear upperhandle housing shell 308 to help prevent thestick assembly 102 from sliding when it is leaned against a table, counter, or other ledge. The slip-resistant insert 312 may comprise any tactile material, or a material having hooks, bumps, dimples, ridges or other surface features that tend to increase surface friction or otherwise resist sliding. Theupper handle 302 may also include a slip-resistant bump 402 or protrusion on the end of thegrip portion 106 to contact vertical surfaces, such as walls, against which the device may be leaned. Further embodiments and examples of slip-resisting features that may be used with the present invention are shown inFIGS. 4A-4E . - An alternative embodiment of stick handle 103 is shown in
FIG. 4A . In the illustrated embodiment, the vacuum cleaner is provided with a slip-resistant insert 404 in the area immediately beneath thegrip portion 106 and a slip-resistant bump 402 in the upper end of the handle. Both theinsert 404 and thebump 402 are manufactured of a high friction material. As is indicated inFIG. 4 , thegrip portion 106 may includedimples 310 or be smooth as shown inFIG. 4A . Moreover, the slip-resistant insert may be textured as inFIG. 4 (item 312) or the slip-resistant insert may be ridged as inFIG. 4A (item 404). -
FIG. 4B illustrates in greater detail the alternative embodiment of the slipresistant insert 404. Here theinsert 404 includesridges 406 transverse to the insert length. Seen in longitudinal section of the insert, theridges 406 are formed as shark fins or saw teeth to assist with gripping the edge of a table top or the like. On an inner surface, theinsert 404 is provided with a number ofprojections 408, which are adapted to be pressed into respective holes in the stick handle 103 to fasten theinsert 404 thereto. -
FIG. 4C illustrates an additional alternative embodiment for forming and attaching a slip-resistant insert 404 to the stick handle. Here a rear upperhandle housing shell 308 is shown in cross section and, as is shown, thehousing shell 308 is in the longitudinal direction formed with a centric positionedgroove 410. Theinsert 404 is cast formed over thegroove 410 on the housing shell in a liquid or plastic state and subsequently hardened. When thehousing shell 308 includes through-holes 412, the liquid or plastic compound may penetrate into the holes and, after subsequent hardening,form attaching members 414, thereby attaching and securinginsert 404 to thehousing shell 308. -
FIGS. 4D and 4E illustrate the benefits of providing a vacuum cleaner with the slip-resistant components according to the invention. Accordingly, the vacuum cleaner can be leaned against the edge of atable top 416, as is shown inFIG. 4D , such that the slip-resistant insert 404 on the rear side of the stick handle bears against the edge, which will prevent the vacuum cleaner from sliding forward and falling to the floor. With a slip-resistant bump 402 on the upper end of thestick handle 103, the vacuum cleaner also can be leaned towards awall 418, as is shown inFIG. 4E , without the risk of falling sideways to the floor. - The upper handle also may include a switching arrangement for operating the device in the stick vacuum mode. Turning back to
FIG. 3 , an example switching arrangement includes anelectric switch 314, a circuit board 316 (if necessary), aswitch slider 318, and aswitch actuator 320. Theswitch actuator 320 is mounted to the frontupper housing shell 306 and located to be readily operated by a user's thumb. Theswitch actuator 320 is attached to theswitch slider 318, which converts the switch's rocking motion into a linear sliding motion and moves theswitch 314 between its various operating positions. Theswitch 314 is mounted to thecircuit board 316, which is connected to the remainder of the device by suitable electrical wiring (not shown). These and other suitable switch mechanisms are known in the art. - In a preferred embodiment, there are at least two operating positions for the
switch actuator 320 and switch 314: a first position in which the vacuum fan and brushroll motor (if one is provided) are off, and a second position in which the vacuum fan and brushroll motor are activated. If desired, additional operating positions may be provided. Examples of such operating positions include a position in which the vacuum fan is activated but the brushroll motor is not (or vice-versa), and a position in which the vacuum fan and/or brushroll motor is operated at a reduced power level. - The
upper handle 302 may also include various other useful features. For example, one or more auxiliary batteries (not shown) may be mounted in acavity 322 between the front and rear upperhandle housing shells FIG. 9 ) when the device is operated in the stick vacuum mode. In addition, cleaning tools, such as inlet nozzle attachments, or other electronics, such as charging circuitry, may be stored in theupper handle 302. - When the front and rear upper
handle housing shells post 324 that fits into a corresponding mountinghole 326 in thelower handle 304. When so assembled, ascrew 328 andnut 330 are used to secure the upper andlower handles upper handle 302, awiring sheath 332 comprising a durable material (such as a cloth or synthetic woven sheath or a rolled plastic sheet or tube) may be provided between theupper handle 302 andlower handle 304 to prevent user exposure to the wires to and protect the electrical wires passing therebetween from being damaged when the upper andlower handles - Still referring to
FIG. 3 , thelower handle 304 preferably is formed by front and rear lowerhandle housing shells handheld mounting recess 112 may be formed in either housing shell to position the handheld 104 on the front, back or side of thestick assembly 102. The mountingrecess 112 may alternatively be formed partially or entirely in theupper handle 302. In the shown embodiment, the mountingrecess 112 is formed in the front surface of the front lowerhandle housing shell 334. Afirst opening 336 is provided through the front lowerhandle housing shell 334 through which anelectrical contact terminal 338 extends to electrically connect the handheld 104 to thestick assembly 102. Other electrical components mounted in thelower handle 304 may also include a printedcircuit board 346 that includes control logic circuitry for the vacuum cleaner and/or battery charging controls, and a pair of mainelectrical contacts 348 which extend throughholes 350 in the rearlower handle housing 336 to contact correspondingelectrical contacts 1408 on the device's charging stand (seeFIGS. 14A and 14B ). The rearlower handle housing 336 also includes aslot 380 into which acorresponding hook 1406 on the charging stand fits to mount thevacuum 100. If no charging stand is used, theelectrical contacts 348 may be replaced by a charger plug receptacle (not shown) or a conventional power cord. - A
second opening 340 is provided through the front lowerhandle housing shell 334 at the bottom of the mountingrecess 112 through which theinlet nozzle 114 of the handheld 104 may pass to engage the inlet conduit opening 202. Acorresponding opening 341 is provided through the rear lowerhandle housing shell 336 to provide an airflow path through thelower handle 304. As shown inFIG. 3 , the inlet conduit opening 202 is formed as a separate part that is captured between the front and rear lowerhandle housing shells openings housing shells handheld inlet nozzle 114 when it is attached thereto, but such a seal may instead by formed by gaskets, o-rings, closely-fitting parts, or other known devices. - The mounting
recess 112 also includes a pair ofthird openings 342 located on opposite sides of the recess 112 (only onesuch opening 342 is visible in the view ofFIG. 3 ). The safety catch clips 206, the purpose of which was described previously herein, extend as cantilevered protrusions from the rear lowerhandle housing shell 336. When the front and rear lowerhandle housing shells clips 206 extend into thethird openings 342 to cooperate with thedetents 208 on the handheld 104 when the handheld 104 is installed in the mountingrecess 112. - Referring now to
FIGS. 3, 5A and 5B, thedocking latch 352 and a pair ofdocking latch buttons 116 are captured between the front and rear lowerhandle housing shells FIG. 5B , thedocking latch 352 comprises apivot 502 at one end, which is pivotally mounted to the rear lowerhandle housing shell 336, and ahook 504 at the other end. Thehook 504 is positioned to pass through acorresponding hole 506 through the front lowerhandle housing shell 334 to enter the mountingrecess 112 and engage thelatch receptacle 204 located at the end of the handheld 104. Aspring 354 is provided between thedocking latch 352 and aspring seat 508 projecting from the inner surface of the front lowerhandle housing shell 334 to resiliently bias thedocking latch 352 into the engaged position. - As best shown in
FIG. 5A , thedocking latch 352 further includes a pair of latch cam surfaces 510 that project laterally and upwardly from each side of thedocking latch 352. The latch cam surfaces 510 are positioned adjacent corresponding button cam surfaces 512 on thedocking latch buttons 116. In use, either or both of thebuttons 116 may be depressed to engage the button cam surfaces 512 with the latch cam surfaces 510 to lift thedocking latch 352 against the bias of thespring 354. With thedocking latch 352 lifted, thehook 504 clears thelatch receptacle 204, and the handheld 104 may be removed. The above steps can be reversed to replace the handheld 104, or the user may simply press the handheld 104 against thehook 504 to drive thedocking latch 352 upwards against the bias of thespring 354. To this end, one or both of thehook 504 and the handheld 104 may have a sloped cam surface to reduce friction between the two parts when replacing the handheld 104. - Turning back to
FIG. 3 , the stick handle 103 also includes apivot assembly 356 for mounting the stick handle 103 to the base 110 (FIG. 1 ). Thepivot assembly 356 comprises apivot link 358 which is mounted to thelower handle 304 such that it can pivot about afirst axis 360, and to the base 110 such that it can pivot about asecond axis 362. In a preferred embodiment, thefirst axis 360 is oriented generally in a plane parallel to the fore-aft direction of the device (i.e., the direction of normal travel of the device) and perpendicular to the long axis of thestick handle 103. The second axis is generally parallel to the surface upon which thebase 110 rests, and perpendicular to the fore-aft direction. The first andsecond axes handle 103 to thebase 110, other types of articulating joints, such as those that provide a single pivot axis between the base 110 and thehandle 103, may instead be used. Such articulating joints are commonly used in upright, stick and canister vacuum cleaners, and non-limiting examples of such devices are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,376,322; 5,107,567; 5,367,741; and 5,819,366, which are incorporated herein by reference. - A
clip joint 364 and clipjoint lock 366 are used to mount thepivot link 358 to thelower handle 304. Theclip joint 364 comprises a cylindrical device that fits within afirst hole 368 through thepivot link 358, and asecond hole 370 through the lower handle 304 (thesecond hole 370 preferably is formed through both the front and rearlower housing shells 334, 336). Theclip joint 364 is flared at each end to capture thepivot link 358 andlower handle 304 together, and provided with slotted sidewalls to allow one of the flared ends to be flexed inwardly to allow theclip joint 364 to pass through theholes joint lock 366 is inserted into theclip joint 364 to prevent the sidewalls from flexing inwardly, thereby preventing its removal. - The lower end of the
pivot link 358 is pivotally mounted about thesecond axis 362 by apivot rod 372, which passes through correspondingholes 374 through thepivot link 358. The ends of thepivot rod 372 are secured in thebase 110 by mountingblocks 375, which are captured in or attached to thebase 110, as described elsewhere herein. - Referring additionally to
FIGS. 3A and 3B , located adjacent, and preferably behind, thepivot assembly 356 is avacuum hose 376. Theflexible hose 376 has a generally rectangular cross sectional shape, which allows it to be made with a comparatively large cross sectional area, but still be concealed behind thepivot assembly 356. This contributes to an attractive appearance of the vacuum cleaner while minimizing the air flow losses. It has been found that this shape maintains or improves airflow capacity over previous devices using oval or round hoses, without increasing the overall size of the device. It has been found, in one embodiment, that a cross sectional dimension of the air passages between 0.07-0.03 dm2 is optimal for an air flow of 18.7 l/sec (liters per second). Furthermore, the rectangular shape is also capable of flexing and bending as the stick handle 103 moves and pivots relative to thebase 110 without excessive occlusion of thehose 376. - Other non-ovate profiles, such as a triangular profile, may also be useful to provide high airflow while still maintaining a compact overall size, but the rectangular shape is preferred for the shown embodiment. Of course, the
rectangular hose 376 is not strictly required of all embodiments of the invention, and it would also be possible to replace theflexible hose 376 with a conventional ovate hose, or a rigid conduit or series of conduits that pivot or rotate relative to one another to allow the base 110 to articulate relative to thestick handle 103. - Abrupt airflow path cross-section changes—such as enlargements, contractions, changes of cross-sectional shape, and tight turns—can restrict the airflow, cause it to slow down and reduce effectiveness, and cause clogging. In order to prevent abrupt flow path profile changes that might increase airflow losses, it is preferred for the airflow passage to remain generally rectangular (or to otherwise match the cross-sectional shape of the hose) downstream of the
hose 376, at least for a short distance. To this end, the inlet conduit opening 202 and/or theopenings lower handle 304 may also be formed with a generally rectangular shape to correspond to the shape of thehose 376. This may also be advantageous because using a rectangular airflow passage within the bodies of thelower handle 304 andhandheld 104 may be a more compact, and possibly more desirable, design. - The
vacuum hose 376 is attached at its upper end to ahose mount 378, which is attached to the bottom of the inlet conduit opening 202. As shown inFIG. 3B , thehose mount 378 may be attached to thehousing 304 bytabs 382 that fit into correspondingslots 384 in thehousing 304. Thesetabs 382 may be operated by a user to quickly release thehose 376 for inspection, and to remove any debris that may become stuck in thehose 376 and inhibit the airflow. Of course, the tab-and-slot arrangement can be modified or substituted by other releasable mechanisms. - Alternatively, the
hose 376 may be mounted directly to the inlet conduit opening 202, or even captured in place or mounted in thelower handle 304 such that thehandheld inlet 114 is inserted directly into the end of thehose 376. Thevacuum hose 376,hose mount 378, and inlet conduit opening 202 provide an inlet air flowpath to thehandheld inlet 114 when the handheld 104 is mounted to thestick assembly 102. - Turning now to
FIG. 3C , the airflow path from thehose 376, through thebase housing 304, and into the handheld 104 is shown in more detail. Here, it can be seen that the handheld 104 is mounted in the mounting recess 112 (seeFIGS. 1B and 2A ) such that itsinlet nozzle 114 is inserted into the inlet conduit opening 202. The inlet conduit opening 202 preferably is a resilient material that forms a generally airtight seal between the opening 341 to which thehose 376 is attached and thehandheld inlet nozzle 114. To this end, theopening 202 is formed with a steppedshoulder portion 388 that abuts the end of theinlet nozzle 114. Theopening 202 also may include abead 386, that is adapted to bear against the outer surface of theinlet nozzle 114. This provides an adequate seal to restricts air leakage into theinlet nozzle 114. Such abead 386 may unduly inhibit the insertion or removal of the handheld 104, and if this is the case, it may be formed with gaps or discontinuities to facilitate releasing and mounting of the handheld 104 into thehandle 103. Such gaps preferably are located at the back of the opening 202 (i.e., the portion furthest back in the recess 112). In such a case, the front portion of thebead 386 should be sufficient to press theinlet nozzle 114 against the back surface of theopening 202 to form a sufficient air seal. Of course, other sealing arrangements may be used, such as replacing thebead 386 andshoulder 388 with separate gaskets, o-rings, or the like. - Referring now to
FIG. 6 , the details of thevacuum cleaner base 110 are shown and described in detail. Thebase 110 is provided to support thestick vacuum 100 as it is moved across a surface being cleaned. Anair inlet 602 is formed in the bottom of thebase 110 and is fluidly connected to thevacuum hose 376 to form a portion of the inlet air flowpath. Various additional features, such as sweepers, airflow-increasingnotches 604, skirts, and the like may be located around theair inlet 602, as known in the art. The base 110 preferably includes rolling devices or low-friction sliding surfaces to assist with moving across a surface being cleaned. In the shown embodiment a pair ofrear wheels 676 are mounted inrear wheel housings 678 byrespective wheel axles 680, and a smaller pair offront wheels 682 are mounted infront wheel housings 684 byrespective axles 686. In addition, thebase 110 may be removable such that the device can be operated without it, as may be desired when cleaning in tight spaces. - The base 110 preferably is formed by upper and lower
base housing shells base housing shells FIG. 3 ), to pivotally retain the lower end of the pivot link 358 (FIG. 3 ) in place. In the shown embodiment, the pivot rod mounting blocks are positioned on top of mountingposts 618 located above thewheel housings 678, and thepivot rod 372 passes throughnotches 620 located in the upperbase housing shell 606. The bottom of thepivot link 358 thus is able to pivot within aconcave space 622 located at the back of thebase 110. - The upper
base housing shell 606 preferably provides a low-profile, aesthetically pleasing shape formed of a non-marking material or having a non-marking bumper formed around its perimeter to prevent marking objects it contacts during use. Anopening 610 is formed in the upperbase housing shell 606 to receive alens 612, which covers astatus light 614. Thestatus light 614, in turn, is connected to acircuit board 616, which is used to control the operation of thestatus light 614 to provide the user with feedback regarding the operation of the device. For example, thestatus light 614 may be off when the device is off, turn green when abrushroll 624 mounted within thebase 110 is operating, and turn red when thebrushroll 624 stops unexpectedly, such as may happen if it becomes locked during operation and trips a circuit breaker (not shown) protecting thebrushroll motor 626. Thestatus light 614 preferably comprises a light emitting diode (“LED”), which is relatively vibration resistant and preferred for potentially high-impact uses, but it may comprise any other type of light of indicating device. In addition to thestatus light 614, one or more headlights may be provided in the base 110 to illuminate the surface being cleaned. - As noted above, the
air inlet 602 is fluidly connected to thevacuum hose 376, which may be done by way of anintermediate manifold 628. The manifold 628 comprises a flared conduit that extends from ahose mounting flange 630 to which thehose 376 is connected, to a relativelywide opening 632 located adjacent theair inlet 602. The manifold 628 abuts the upperbase housing shell 606 along its top edge, and together the manifold 628 and upper and lowerbase housing shells air inlet 602 to thevacuum hose 376. The manifold 628 may be formed integrally with, or formed by, one or both of thebase housing shells shells hose mounting flange 630 is located in theconcave space 622 at the back of thebase 110, and positioned below thepivot link 358. With this configuration, sufficient clearance should be provided between thepivot link 358 and thehose 376 to allow thepivot link 358 to move within thespace 622 without rubbing against or significantly pinching thevacuum hose 376. - If desired, a
brushroll 624 may be mounted above theair inlet 602 such that its bristles (not shown) protrude through theinlet 602 to agitate a surface to be cleaned. Any of the many different brushrolls and brushroll mounting arrangements known in the art may be used, but in the preferred embodiment, thebrushroll 624 is mounted by a release system that allows a user to quickly remove thebrushroll 624 to remove dirt or objects that are trapped in theinlet 602 or wrapped around thebrushroll 624, or for other maintenance. Referring now toFIGS. 6 and 7 , in a preferred arrangement, thebrushroll 624 is mounted at one end to adrive plate 634, and at the other end to amounting block 636. The mountingblock 636 is releasably mounted, as described below, so that thebrushroll 624 can be easily detached from thedrive plate 634 and removed from thebase 110. - The
drive plate 634 is driven by abrushroll motor 626. In a preferred drive arrangement, adrive gear 640 is attached to themotor 626, and a drivengear 642 is attached to thedrive plate 634 by astub shaft 644. Adrive belt 646 interconnects thegears stub shaft 644 is pressed into or splined to both the drivengear 642 and thedrive plate 634, and is rotatably mounted to thebase 110 by abearing 648. While thebearing 648 may be directly mounted to the upper and/or lowerbase housing shell base 110 by way of abrushroll motor bracket 650. Thebrushroll motor bracket 650 is a separate, relatively rigid part that attaches to the drive plate bearing 648 and themotor 626 to hold them in proper alignment, which may help increasebelt life 646. Such a construction is described in greater detail on co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/191,948, filed on Jul. 29, 2005, which is incorporated herein by reference. - The
drive plate 634 comprises a plurality of holes into which corresponding protrusions 638 (FIG. 7 ) on the end of thebrushroll 624 fit. Of course, other arrangements that transmit torque from thedrive plate 634 to thebrushroll 624 may be used instead, such as a splined arrangement. Using this arrangement, thebrushroll 624 can be quickly and easily removed from or attached to thedrive plate 634. As best shown inFIG. 7 , thebrushroll 624 may also includevarious flanges 652 that form a labyrinthine path between the brushroll 624 and thebearing 648, and thereby help prevent the bearing 648 from being contaminated by dirt and debris. - The
brushroll 624 is attached to themounting block 636 by a bushing 654 (or bearing, if desired) that fits into a recess in themounting block 636. Thebushing 654 surrounds and rides on asecond stub shaft 654 mounted in the end of thebrushroll 624. The end of thebrushroll 624 may include ashroud 658 that fits over the mountingblock 636 to help isolate thebushing 654 from dirt and debris. When installed, the mountingblock 636 fits within arecess 660 formed in the lowerbase housing shell 608. The mountingblock 636 is secured in thebase 110 by a mountingblock retainer 662 that includes a clampingpost 664 that presses the mountingblock 636 into therecess 660. - The operation of the mounting
block retainer 662 is illustrated inFIGS. 8A and 8B . The mountingblock retainer 662 includes atab 666 that fits into acorresponding opening 802 in thebase 110. With thetab 666 in place, theretainer 662 is pivoted upwards to press the mountingblock 636 into therecess 660. When fully installed, acatch 668 located at the end of theretainer 662 opposite thetab 666 is engaged by ahook 670 provided on a moveablebrushroll retainer button 672. Thebutton 672 is biased by aspring 674 into the engaged position. To release thebrushroll 624, the user presses thebrushroll retainer button 672 to release thehook 670 from thecatch 668. Thebrushroll 624 can then be removed by withdrawing the mountingblock 636 from therecess 660 and pulling the other end of thebrushroll 624 out of engagement with thedrive plate 634. Installation is done by reversing the above process. - Turning now to
FIG. 9 , an embodiment of thehandheld vacuum cleaner 104 that may be used in conjunction with the foregoingstick assembly 102 or as a separate device is illustrated and described in detail. While the embodiment of the handheld 104 described herein includes features to allow it to be used with the stick portion of the vacuum as part of a convertible vacuum cleaner, it will be appreciated that other embodiments of the handheld 104 and various inventive features described with reference to the handheld 104 may be used outside the context of a convertible stick vacuum. The handheld 104 generally comprises upper and lowerhandheld housing shells hand grip 906, amotor housing 908, and a dirtcup receiving area 960. As explained previously herein, the handheld 104 also includes aninlet nozzle 114 that preferably protrudes from the handheld 104 to help hold the handheld in thestick assembly 102. If other hooks or mechanisms are provided to mount the handheld 104 in the stick assembly 102 (or if the handheld 104 is not intended for use in combination with a stick assembly 102), theinlet nozzle 114 may instead be flush with the housing exterior. It is also anticipated that theinlet nozzle 114 can comprise an extendible nozzle, as known in the art. - Referring now also to
FIG. 9A , afan motor 910 andfan assembly 912 are encased between the upper and lowerhandheld housing shells motor housing 908. Thefan motor 906 drives thefan assembly 912 to provide suction to clean floors and other surfaces, as known in the art. In a preferred embodiment, thefan assembly 912 comprises afan impeller 914 encased between anair diffuser 916 and animpeller cover 918. Thecover 918 directs incoming air into the center of theimpeller 914 and may include other features, such as contours or fixed vanes, to help improve performance. Thediffuser 916 redirects air exiting theimpeller 914 to help cool themotor 910. Aninlet cover 920 encases theimpeller 914 andimpeller cover 918 and attaches them to thediffuser 916, and has aninlet hole 921 that forms the inlet to thefan assembly 912. Theinlet hole 921 preferably is formed with a smoothly rounded, tapering funnel shape that smoothly mates with a smoothly rounded, widening portion of theimpeller cover 918 to avoid unnecessary turbulence as the air enters theimpeller 918. - A
grille 922 is attached to theinlet cover 920 to prevent large objects from entering theimpeller 914. Preferably, thegrille 922 has a domed shape. This provides two potential benefits. First, the three-dimensional shape helps increase the total area of the flow openings through thegrille 922. Second, the domed shape also makes thegrille 922 stronger with respect to forces acting perpendicular to thefan assembly 912. This additional strength permits the individual ribs that form thegrille 922 to be made narrower, thereby further increasing the total area of the flow openings. - The
fan assembly 912 is encased by afan cover 924, which may be provided as a somewhat resilient thermoplastic material, to protect thefan assembly 912 and hold it in place in the handheld 104. - The
fan motor 910 is mounted to thefan assembly 912 with the motor'sdrive shaft 926 attached to theimpeller 914. In a preferred embodiment, abattery bracket 928 is mounted around thefan motor 910 to hold a number ofbatteries 930 around the motor's peripheral wall. Thediffuser 916 may also cool thesebatteries 930 during operation. In the shown embodiment, thebatteries 930 are cylindrical and oriented with their cylindrical axes perpendicular to the rotational axis of thefan motor 910. In other embodiments, one or more of thebatteries 930 may instead be oriented with its cylindrical axis parallel to the rotating axis of themotor 910, or at other angles that may be desirable to fit thebatteries 930 in the handheld 104, to provide a more compact construction, or to provide other benefits. - As noted above, the assembled
motor 910 andfan assembly 912 are installed in themotor housing 908 portion of the handheld 104. Themotor housing 908 preferably is located immediately adjacent thehand grip 906 to improve the weight balance of the vacuum cleaner. Themotor housing 908 is formed by the upper and lowerhandheld housing shells inserts 932 that form the sides of themotor housing 908. Of course, theinserts 932 may be replaced by integral moldings on one or both of thehousing shells fan cover 924 fits tightly within themotor housing 908 to support thefan assembly 912 andmotor 910, and may be made of a vibration-reducing material to reduce operating noise and vibrations. If thefan cover 924 is not sufficient, alone, to mount thefan assembly 912 andmotor 910, additional mounts may be provided, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. The working airflow exits themotor housing 908 through one or more vent holes 934. One or more foam orelastic pads 936 may be provided within themotor housing 908 to reduce noise and/or vibrations generated by thefan assembly 912 andmotor 910. One of thesepads 936 preferably is located adjacent the vent holes 934 to inhibit viewing of themotor 910 and prevent objects from being ejected through the vent holes 934 should the motor experience a catastrophic failure. Thispad 936 may also filter air exiting themotor housing 908, or a separate post-motor filter may be provided to filter the exhaust air, if desired. - As noted above,
several batteries 930 may be arranged around themotor 910 to power the device. Batteries may also be located elsewhere in the handheld 104. For example,additional batteries 938 may be stored in achamber 940 in thegrip 906 or elsewhere in the device. Thebatteries fan motor 910, and such operation is controlled by ahandheld switch actuator 942 that projects through anopening 944 through the upperhandheld housing shell 902. Theswitch actuator 942 abuts against aswitch cover 946, which, in turn, is arranged to operate anelectric switch 948. Of course, other switch arrangements may be used, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. - The
electric switch 948 selectively connects thebatteries fan motor 910 to turn it on and off. In a preferred embodiment, theelectric switch 948 has three positions: a power off position in which themotor 910 is inoperative, a partial power position in which thefan motor 910 is driven at a reduced power or speed, and a full power position in which themotor 910 is driven at a maximum operating capacity. Such operating states may be provided, for example, by wiring theelectric switch 948 to connect a portion of thebatteries motor 910 to provide reduced power operation, and to connect all of thebatteries motor 910 to provide full power operation. A printedcircuit board 950 or other control circuits may be used to assist with such control of themotor 910 and/or charging thebatteries - In the shown embodiment, which is driven by
rechargeable batteries electrical contacts 952 to charge the batteries. When the handheld 104 is stored in thestick assembly 102, theelectrical contacts 952 abut a correspondingelectrical contact terminal 338 in thestick assembly 102 to receive power from an outlet or other source to charge thebatteries stick assembly 102. In an alternative embodiment, theelectrical contacts 952 may be adapted to receive an input plug directly from a wall charger, or may be omitted if non-rechargeable batteries are used. - The handheld 104 of the shown embodiment may also include other electrical devices. For example, a light 954 is provided to illuminate the
handheld switch actuator 942 during charging and/or use. LEDs are preferred for this application, as they are vibration resistant and draw relatively little power. An additional light or lights (not shown) may also be positioned on the handheld 104 to illuminate a surface being cleaned. In addition, afuse 956 or circuit breaker (not shown) may be provided in the handheld 104 (or the stick assembly 102) to protect thefan motor 910 or other electrical components during use and/or charging. In a preferred embodiment, thefuse 956 is provided in aprotective sheath 958, such as a PVC tube, but this is not required. - The handheld 104 also includes a dirt
cup receiving area 960 located between theinlet nozzle 114 and themotor housing 908. The dirt collection assembly 1000 (FIG. 10 ), an embodiment of which is described subsequently herein, fits into the receivingarea 960, and is engaged by snap engagement, latches, or other known mechanisms. In the preferred embodiment, the dirt cup is retained between thefan cover 924 and aprotruding surface 962 located near theinlet nozzle 114. The protrudingsurface 962 preferably is somewhat sloped so that it directs thedirt collection assembly 1000 towards thefan cover 924 as thedirt collection assembly 1000 is installed, which helps provide an airtight seal between thedirt collection assembly 1000 and the fan motor's inlet. A pair of cup hooks 964 are provided in the receivingarea 960 to be engaged by corresponding latches 1002 (FIG. 10 ) on thedirt collection assembly 1000 to retain thedirt collection assembly 1000 in place. The operation of theselatches 1002 is described in more detail subsequently herein. To further help with aligning and installing thedirt collection assembly 1000, the handheld 104 may include a receivingslot 974 that receives a corresponding protrusion 1104 (FIG. 11 ) of thedirt collection assembly 1000. Of course, the locations of theslot 974 andprotrusion 1104 may be moved or reversed from the shown embodiment. - As shown in
FIG. 9 , theinlet nozzle 114 connects to aconduit 966 formed along the back portion of the dirtcup receiving area 960. Theconduit 966 is enclosed by aconduit cover 968, which may be transparent to allow a user to see clogs in theconduit 966 and/or removable to allow access to theconduit 966. The conduit ends at anozzle outlet 970 through thecover 968. Thenozzle outlet 970 faces the dirt cup inlet 1004 (FIG. 10 ) when thedirt collection assembly 1000 is installed. Aseal 972 of any suitable sealing material, such as foam rubber or the like, may be provided around thenozzle outlet 970 to help form an airtight seal against thedirt cup inlet 1004. Alternatively, theinlet nozzle 114 may be formed as part of thedirt collection assembly 1000. An embodiment of such an alternative construction is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,122,796, which is incorporated herein by reference, in which an inlet nozzle is provided at the end of the dirt collection assembly. - Turning now to
FIG. 10 , a preferred embodiment of adirt collection assembly 1000 that may be used with the present invention is shown and described. The illustrateddirt collection assembly 1000 uses cyclonic separation principles in conjunction with particle filters to remove dirt and debris from the working airflow, but it will be appreciated that this is not strictly necessary for all embodiments of the invention. For example, thedirt collection assembly 1000 may instead comprise a conventional bag filter, planar filter and/or pleated filter, or may house a cyclone separator that does not use additional filters. Thedirt collection assembly 1000 also may be permanently affixed to the handheld 104, in which case one or more access covers may be provided on the handheld 104 to clean out the dirt collection chamber and/or filter(s). - The
dirt collection assembly 1000 comprises a cup-likedirt collection chamber 1006 having anopen end 1008 that faces thefan cover 924 when it is installed in the handheld 104. The general profile of thedirt collection chamber 1006 is approximately rectangular with rounded corners, but a more circular profile may be used. The rectangular profile allows greater dirt-holding capacity without increasing the overall diameter of the handheld 104, and has been found to provide suitable cyclonic dirt separating performance. Adirt access port 1010 may be formed in thecollection chamber 1006, as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/544,927 (previously incorporated herein by reference). If such aport 1010 is provided, asuitable cover 1012 may be provided to cover theport 1010 when it is not in use. The cover may be fully removable, or rotatable about apivot 1014, as shown. Asuitable seal 1102 may be provided to seal thecover 1012 where it contacts the outer perimeter of theport 1010. As best shown inFIG. 11 , in the shown embodiment theseal 1102 comprises a facing lip seal, but other seal configurations may be used instead. One or more resilient tabs (not shown) may be used to hold thecover 1012 in the sealing position, or the seal itself may be used by projecting it into theport 1010 to form an interference fit when thecover 1012 is closed. - Returning to
FIG. 10 ,side panels 1016 are mounted on opposite sides of thedirt collection chamber 1006. Theside panels 1016 have slightly indented orconcave regions 1018 that facilitate gripping of thedirt collection assembly 1000. Cup latches 1002 are mounted between eachside panel 1016 and the wall of thedirt collection chamber 1006. Eachcup latch 1002 has alatch hook 1018 that is adapted to engage the corresponding cup hook 964 (FIG. 9 ) in the handheld dirt cup receiving area 960 (FIG. 9 ). Thelatches 1002 are mounted in a “see-saw” configuration in which eachlatch 1002 is pivotally mounted between theside panels 1016 and thecollection chamber 1006 by a pair ofpivots 1020 that fit in correspondingbosses 1022 on thecollection chamber 1006 wall.Bushings 1024 may be provided to provide smooth and consistent pivoting action. Eachlatch 1002 is operated by acup release button 1026 located on the opposite side of thepivots 1020 as thelatch hook 1018. Aleaf spring 1028 is mounted to thelatch 1002 to bias thebutton 1026 away from the collection chamber wall, and to bias thelatch hook 1018 into engagement with thecorresponding cup hook 964. Using this configuration, the majority of the cup latching arrangement is concealed between theside panels 1016 and thedirt collection chamber 1006, but thecup release buttons 1026 are accessible throughcorresponding openings 1030 in theside panels 1016. - As noted above, the
dirt collection assembly 1000 preferably operates using cyclonic separation and conventional dirt filtration to remove particles and debris from the working airflow. To this end, the dirtcollection assembly inlet 1004 is located offset from the centerline of thedirt collection chamber 1006 so that the incoming airflow enters in a somewhat tangential direction to initiate the formation of a vortex within thedirt collection chamber 1006. Alternatively, theinlet 1004 may be on the dirt collection chamber centerline and a diverter (not shown) provided to redirect the airflow in a tangential direction. These and other cyclonic inlet configurations are known in the art. - Further assisting with the creation of a cyclonic separating effect is a
cyclone insert 1032, which is releasably mounted in the dirt collection chamber as best shown inFIGS. 10 and 11 . The cyclone insert 1032 (if provided) may comprise a structure as simple as a conical or frustoconical flat or pleated filter, or a simple air guide that helps guide the incoming airflow around the periphery of thedirt collection chamber 1006 to create and maintain cyclone separation. In a preferred embodiment, however, thecyclone insert 1032 comprises a structure that both directs the airflow in a cyclonic pattern, and provides a first filtration stage for the incoming airflow. Specifically, thecyclone insert 1032 comprises a cylindrical or frustoconical airflow receiving area 1034 (FIG. 10 ) through which the incoming airflow passes as it enters thedirt collection assembly 1000. The upper end of the airflow receiving area 1034 (that is, the end towards theopen end 1008 of the dirt collection chamber 1006) is bounded by an upper radially-extendingflange 1036 that fits relatively closely to the inner wall of thedirt collection chamber 1006. The lower end of theairflow receiving area 1034 may be provided with a similar lower radially-extendingflange 1038 that extends partially around the receivingarea 1034 to contain the incoming airflow within the receivingarea 1034 for a time before being deposited into the remainder of thedirt collection chamber 1006. One end of theairflow receiving area 1034 preferably is blocked by a wall 1037 (FIG. 10A ) extending between the upper andlower flanges airflow receiving area 1034 wraps partially around thecyclone insert 1032, and preferably terminates at a firstdownward ramp 1040 that extends into thedirt collection chamber 1006 from theupper flange 1036. A seconddownward ramp 1042 or lip may also be provided at the end of thelower flange 1038. The firstdownward ramp 1040 helps direct the incoming airflow into the portion of thecollection chamber 1006 below thelower flange 1038, and the seconddownward ramp 1042 drives circulating air already below thelower flange 1038 further down into thedirt collection chamber 1006 to enhance dirt separation. Both of these ramp features may improve the airflow efficiency of the device. - Referring now to
FIGS. 13A and 13B , extending below theairflow receiving area 1034 is a cylindrical or, more preferably,frustoconical filter cage 1044. Thefilter cage 1044 includes a number oflarge openings 1045 through its sidewall, in which appropriate mesh screens (not shown) are placed, such as by overmolding, to provide a coarse particle filtration stage. Such filter cages and screens are known in the art. In order to provide even greater surface area for coarse particle filtration, thecyclone insert 1032 may have additional openings 1046 (with corresponding screens) through the upper wall that forms theairflow receiving area 1034. In the shown embodiment, alower opening 1048 is also provided through the bottom of thefilter cage 1044. In embodiments in which the device includes a fine particle filter located within thecyclone insert 1032, such as described below, thelower opening 1048 may optionally remain fully open (i.e., does not have a screen over it) to thus allow dirt from the fine particle filter to be deposited into thedirt collection chamber 1006. - Turning now to
FIGS. 10 through 10 B, the connection of thedirt collection assembly 1000 to the rest of the handheld 104 is shown. Thedirt collection assembly 1000 mounts to the handheld 104 such that thedirt cup inlet 1004 mates with theoutlet 970 of theinlet nozzle 114. Theconduit 966 between theinlet 114 andoutlet 970 is shown in broken lines. When thedirt collection assembly 1000 is mounted, the open end, into which thecyclone insert 1032 is fitted, abuts the fanassembly inlet hole 921. - The
conduit 966 preferably is formed with a somewhat curved shape that redirects the air entering theinlet 114 to flow somewhat tangentially into thedirt collection chamber 1006. To assist with this, theoutlet 970 is positioned off-center with respect to the symmetrical centerline of the handheld 104. This shape of theconduit 966 and other parts preferably are contoured to minimize any turbulence caused by redirecting the airflow into thedirt collection chamber 1006. - Referring to
FIG. 10C , the airflow within thedirt collection assembly 1000 is shown. Here, the various flanges and other structures (e.g., 1036, 1038, 1040, 1042) of thecyclone insert 1032 are shown directing the incoming air in a swirling motion within thedirt collection chamber 1006, as shown by the arrows. As the air flows helically around thecyclone insert 1032, it gradually enters radially through theopenings 1048 and subsequently flows in the axial direction inside thecyclone insert 1032 to thefan assembly 912. - Turning now to
FIGS. 10 and 11 , thedirt collection assembly 1000 of a preferred embodiment also includes a fineparticle filter assembly 1050 that can be releasably inserted into an openupper end 1052 of thecyclone insert 1032 to fit within the insert. The fineparticle filter assembly 1050 may comprise a simple fabric or pleated filter that is designed to capture fine particles than may pass through the coarse filter meshes of thecyclone insert 1032, as known in the art. In a preferred embodiment, the fineparticle filter assembly 1050 comprises a flexible filter that can be repeatedly retracted and extended to remove entrapped particles from its surface. - In the embodiment illustrated herein, the fine
particle filter assembly 1050 comprises a frustoconicalflexible filter 1054 mounted to asealing flange 1056, and a mechanism for retracting and extending theflexible filter 1054 to clean the filter. The fineparticle filter assembly 1050 may fit wholly or partially within thecyclone insert 1032. If desired,snap tabs 1053, hooks, bayonet fittings, threads or other attachment devices may be provided to hold the fineparticle filter assembly 1050 in the cyclone insert. It will also be appreciated that the fineparticle filter assembly 1050 may be located adjacent or downstream of the cyclone insert without fitting therein. - The
flexible filter 1054 preferably is mounted to a cylindrical orfrustoconical protrusion 1058 that extends from the surface of theflange 1056. Such attachment may be by adhesives, stitching, overmolding or other suitable mechanisms or means, or combinations thereof. Other attachment arrangements may be used, but the foregoing arrangement attaches theflexible filter 1054 to theflange 1056 such that forces applied to extend the filter away from theflange 1056 are carried in shear, thereby potentially reducing the likelihood that thefilter 1054 will become detached from theflange 1056. Theflexible filter 1054 also may be removably attached to theflange 1056 by mounting thefilter 1054 to a mounting collar (not shown), and providing mating attachment surfaces (such as bayonet fittings, snaps or threads) between the mounting collar and the sealingflange 1056. Aflange opening 1057 passes through the center of the sealingflange 1056 to provide an airflow path out of thedirt collection assembly 1000. Thefrustoconical protrusion 1058 surrounds theflange opening 1057 such that air must pass through theflexible filter 1054 before exiting thedirt collection assembly 1000. - The filter retracting and extending mechanism comprises a
snap spring 1060 located within theflexible filter 1054, and positioned to abut and extend from the sealingflange 1056 to bias the filter away from theflange 1056, as shown inFIG. 11 . Aspring handle 1062 is provided to pull thespring 1060 towards theflange 1056. The spring handle 1062 passes through and is supported by acylindrical guide 1064, which is supported in theflange opening 1057 by inwardly-extendingarms 1066. Thesnap spring 1060 is attached to the end of thespring handle 1062 by way of a disc-shapedend seal 1068, which is captured on the end of thehandle 1062 by asnap ring 1070 or other attachment such as threads, press-fitment, or the like. Thesnap spring 1060 is thus captured between theend seal 1068 and the sealingflange 1056, and withdrawing thespring handle 1062 causes thesnap spring 1060 to compress towards theflange 1056. When thesnap spring 1060 is in the extended position, as shown inFIG. 11 , theend seal 1068 seals thelower opening 1048 of thefilter cage 1044. In this position, sufficient residual force preferably remains in thesnap spring 1060 to prevent theend seal 1068 from being pulled out of sealing engagement over thelower opening 1048 by suction forces generated by the vacuum. However, theend seal 1068 andsnap spring 1060 may be designed such that some air leakage though thebottom opening 1048 may be intentionally provided to allow air to pass to theflexible filter 1054 should the coarse filter screens become occluded. - As best shown in
FIG. 11 , thesnap spring 1060 preferably is shaped to generally correspond with the shape of theflexible filter 1054 when it thesnap spring 1060 is extended. In this manner, it can help support theflexible filter 1054 and prevent it from collapsing when a suction force is applied to generate the working airflow. The end of theflexible filter 1054 opposite the sealingflange 1056 is attached to one or both of thesnap spring 1060 and theend seal 1068 by any suitable means, or may simply be captured between the end of thesnap spring 1060 and theend seal 1068. - In operation, the user can pull and release the
spring handle 1062 to compress and extend thesnap spring 1060, respectively. Doing so causes theflexible filter 1054 to collapse and fold in on itself, which helps release dirt and debris that may be adhered to theflexible filter 1054 or embedded within the filter's surface. In addition, if thespring handle 1062 is released when thesnap spring 1060 is compressed, thesnap spring 1060 will rapidly extend to apply a sudden tension to theflexible filter 1054 to help release dirt and debris by the generation of sudden inertial forces in the filter surface. Each time thesnap spring 1060 is compressed, dirt and debris blocked by theflexible filter 1054 can fall through thebottom opening 1048. If thefine filter assembly 1050 is still attached to thedirt collection assembly 1000, such released dirt will fall into the remainder of thedirt collection chamber 1006. - Referring now to
FIGS. 10, 11 , and 12, a preferred embodiment of thefine filter assembly 1050 also may include a retainer assembly 1072 (FIG. 11 ), which is provided to prevent thefine filter assembly 1050 from pulling free of thedirt collection chamber 1006 when thespring handle 1062 is pulled to compress thesnap spring 1060. While any kind of latching system may be used, apreferred retainer assembly 1072 comprises a pair ofrelease arms 1074 that are captured in place on the upper surface of the sealingflange 1056 by asupport ring 1076. Thesupport ring 1076 is attached to the sealingflange 1056 by acylindrical collar 1078 that snaps over a correspondingcylindrical collar 1080 protruding from the sealingflange 1056. A pair ofpins 1082 extend from thesupport ring 1076 towards the sealingflange 1056 to fit in correspondingholes 1084 at one end of eachrelease arms 1074. In this way, therelease arms 1074 are free to pivot within the space between thesupport ring 1076 and the sealingflange 1056. Eachrelease arm 1074 has a radially-extendingtab 1086 that is arranged to fit into acorresponding slot 1088 in thedirt collection chamber 1006, and aspring 1090 is located between the ends of therelease arms 1074 opposite the pivot pins 1082 to bias therelease arms 1074 and theirtabs 1086 into theslots 1088.Finger tabs 1092 are provided on therelease arms 1074 to allow a user to pull therelease arms 1074 against thespring 1090 to release thetabs 1086 from theslots 1088 and remove thefine filter assembly 1050 from thedirt collection chamber 1006. - When the various parts of the
dirt collection assembly 1000 are assembled, they provide a sealed dirt collection device that allows little or no air to leak into or out of the working airflow between thedirt cup inlet 1004 and thefan assembly 912 during normal operating conditions. As best shown inFIG. 11 , this sealed arrangement is provided primarily by the sealingflange 1056, which includes aperimeter lip seal 1094 that seals against the inner wall of thedirt collection chamber 1006 when installed therein. In addition, thecylindrical collar 1080 to which the finefilter retainer assembly 1072 is attached is arranged to abut and/or surround thefan cover 924 to provide a seal between thedirt collection assembly 1000 and thefan assembly 912. Finally, thecyclone insert 1032 abuts a surface of the sealingflange 1056 to form a seal therebetween that prevents or inhibits air from bypassing thecyclone insert 1032. A facing lip seal or o-ring (not shown) may be provided between the sealingflange 1056 and thecyclone insert 1032 to improve the seal between these parts. - Various additional examples of such flexible filter assemblies or filter units are shown in
FIGS. 11A-11G and are described below. - Referring now to
FIG. 11A an alternative embodiment of ahandheld vacuum cleaner 1100 with various filter cleaning systems is illustrated. Thevacuum cleaner 1100 comprises ahousing 1102 having ahandle 1104, an on/off-switch 1106 and aninlet 1108 for suction of dust laden air. The suction is generated by amotor fan unit 1110 arranged in thehousing 1102. When thevacuum cleaner 1100 is operated, air flows from theinlet 1108 of thevacuum cleaner 1100, into aninlet opening 1112 of a dust container 1114, through afilter unit 1116, past themotor fan unit 1110, and the air exits thevacuum cleaner 1100 throughoutlets 1118. - As described in the other embodiments above, dust laden air flows through the
filter unit 1116 during operation and the air is filtered by thefilter unit 1116 which traps dust, fibers, hair, sand and other particles. Some of the vacuumed particles adhere to thefilter unit 1116, but many are trapped in a lowermost part of the dust container 1114. The dust container 1114 is emptied, for example, by opening alid 1122 belonging to the dust container 1114 and by allowing the dust to exit the lid opening, or by removing the dust container 1114 from thehousing 1102 and allowing dust to escape from anopening 1124 of the dust container 1114. - Turning now to
FIGS. 11B and 11C , afilter unit 1116 according to a first embodiment is illustrated. Thefilter unit 1116 comprises an air permeable andflexible filter body 1126 having the form of a tubular bag with an open end, ortop portion 1128, integrated with afilter attachment member 1130. Adust removing assembly 1132 comprising arod 1134 and aspring 1136 is arranged inside thefilter body 1126, and anend portion 1138 of therod 1134 is connected to aclosed portion 1140 of thefilter body 1126. Therod 1134 is supported by asupport part 1142 integrated with thefilter attachment member 1130 via at least onearm 1146. Preferably, thesupport part 1142 forms a hole for therod 1134. Thefilter body 1126 is straightened by a biasing force applied by thespring 1136 which is arranged around therod 1134 between arod protrusion 1148 and thesupport part 1142 of theattachment member 1130. - The
attachment member 1130 comprisesholes 1150 that are configured to receive therethrough corresponding pegs (not shown) that extend from thehousing 1102 or from the dust container 1114 in order to form a bayonet joint.Resilient sealing members attachment member 1130 for providing an air tight seal between thehousing 1102 and/or the dust container 1114. - The
attachment member 1130 may also be connected by connecting the dust container 1114 to thehousing 1102 and therebetween fitting and pressing theattachment member 1130, or theattachment member 1130 may be attached to thehousing 1102 or the dust container 1114 by an interference fit or snap fit associated with the respective connecting part. - Preferably, the
filter unit 1116 is attached to the dust container 1114 and when thefilter unit 1116 is to be cleaned, the dust container 1114 is removed from thehousing 1102 with thefilter unit 1116 still attached. Subsequently atop portion 1156 of therod 1134 is moved in the direction of the arrow D for collapsing and expanding thefilter unit 1116, or more specifically, contracting and straightening theflexible filter body 1126 as illustrated inFIG. 11D . During this operation, dust falls off thefilter unit 1116 and, since it is still attached to the dust container 1114, into the dust container 1114 without spreading dust to the surroundings. - The outer surface of the
filter body 1126, i.e. the surface facing the interior of the dust container 1114, is preferably sleek for preventing hair and fibers from adhering to thefilter body 1126. Any known filter material with a sleek surface may be used for manufacturing thefilter body 1126. - Turning now to
FIG. 11E , afilter unit 1116 according to a second embodiment is illustrated. Thefilter unit 1116 comprises an air permeable and flexible fine particle-filter body 1158 having the form of a tubular bag with its open end, ortop portion 1160, integrated with afilter attachment member 1130. A flexible cleaning and/or sealingpart 1162 is attached to aclosed portion 1164 of the particle-filter body 1158. Thefilter unit 1116 further comprises a coarsepre-filter body 1166 which has anopening 1168 in an end portion, encloses the particle-filter body 1158, and is connected to theattachment member 1130. It should be noted that the coarsepre-filter body 1166 filters large particles such as hair and fibers, while the particle-filter body 1158 filters smaller particles that pass through thecoarse filter 1166. - Preferably, the coarse
pre-filter body 1166 is detachable from theattachment member 1130, and thecoarse filter body 1166 may incorporate a separate attachment member (not shown) for attachment to any of theattachment member 1130, thehousing 1102, and/or the dust container 1114. - A
dust removing assembly 1132 comprising arod 1134 and aspring 1136 is arranged inside the particle-filter body 1158, and the inner portion of therod 1134 is connected to theclosed portion 1164 of the particle-filter body 1158 in a manner corresponding to the filter according to the first embodiment. Thespring 1136 presses the cleaning/sealing part 1163 towards the lower part of the coarsepre-filter body 1166 and thus seals theopening 1168 during operation of thevacuum cleaner 1100. - The
filter unit 1116 according to the second embodiment is attached to the dust container 1114 or thehousing 1102 in a manner similar to the attachment of the first embodiment of thefilter unit 1116. When thefilter unit 1116 is to be cleaned, the dust container 1114 is removed from thehousing 1102 with thefilter unit 1116 still being attached. Thetop portion 1156 of therod 1134 is then moved in the direction of the arrow D for collapsing and expanding thefilter unit 1116, or more particularly, contracting and straightening the particle-filter body 1158 as illustrated inFIGS. 11E-11F . During this operation dust falls off the particle-filter 1158, out through theopening 1168 and into the dust container 1114. - If particles of dust are adhered to the interior of the pre-filter 1166, the interior may be scraped by the cleaning/sealing
part 1162. To facilitate this operation there is an optional clearance between thefilter attachment member 1130 and therod 1134 to allow slight tilting of the rod along direction T. -
FIG. 11G illustrates afilter unit 1116 according to a third embodiment. Thefilter unit 1116 comprises aspring 1170 arranged inside thefilter body 1126 to support thefilter body 1126. Thespring 1170 is at one end connected to abottom portion 1140 of thefilter body 1126 and is at its other end connected to theattachment member 1130. Preferably, thespring 1170 has a conical shape corresponding to the straightened shape of thefilter body 1126, as illustrated in the figure. - Other variations of the filter systems above are contemplated. For example, the
rod 1134 of the third embodiment may be omitted and replaced by a weight (not shown) arranged in abottom portion 1140 of thefilter body 1126. In this case thefilter unit 1116 is to be shaken for contracting and straightening thefilter body 1126. Such a weight may be used in any combination of the first and second embodiment. - The
spring 1170 according to the third embodiment may also be combined with any of the filters according to the first and second embodiment. Thespring 1136 of the second embodiment may, of course, be omitted to provide yet another embodiment where thespring 1170 according to the third embodiment is arranged within the particle-filter body 1158, and where thespring 1170 is connected to thebottom portion 1164 of the particle-filter body 1158 and to theattachment member 1130. Therod 1134 of the second embodiment may be omitted and replaced by a weight (not shown) arranged in abottom portion 1164 of the particle-filter body 1158. - To remove dust that is caught between the
filter unit 1116 and the dust container 1114, a rib (not shown) may be integrated with thefilter unit 1116 and extend radially towards the dust container 1114. Movement of the rib allows additional dust to be removed from the dust container 1114. - The filter body or bodies and filter attachment member are integrated, for example, by bonding, gluing, melting or sewing the filter body to a surface of the attachment member, by enclosing the open end of the filter body in the attachment member, by clamping or melting the attachment member to the filter body. Preferably, the filter body and attachment member are circular as illustrated in the figures. However, the filter body and attachment member may, for example, be rectangular, triangular or have any other suitable shape.
- The attachment member may have any suitable shape for attachment to the dust container and for support of the dust removing assembly and may, for example, comprise a disc with attachment holes and a support hole for the rod. Preferably, the attachment member is extruded, and preferably made of a plastic material such as polyethylene or any other similar material.
- The spring may be replaced by a suitable elastic element that will provide a corresponding function. It is also possible to connect an elastic element, such as a spring or a rubber band, to the attachment member and the top portion of the rod.
- Furthermore, the described spring is only one method of straightening the respective filter bodies. Other methods for straightening the filter include an interference fit or a snap-fit between the rod and the filter attachment member. When fixed to the attachment member, the rod provides a desired, straightened shape of the filter body. When the filter is to be cleaned, or the rod moved, the interference fit is manually overcome by a user.
- Referring now to
FIG. 13C , the filter units ofFIGS. 11B-11G can be integrated into a cyclone insert to form acyclonic filter unit 1312. Thefilter unit 1312 comprises aradial wall 1302 for preventing dust from exiting through theopening 1112 of thedust container 1306 when thevacuum cleaner 1300 is held with itsopening 1308 in an upward direction. An air-flow guiding vane 1310 is arranged on the exterior of thefilter unit 1312 for enhancing the cyclonic effect around thefilter unit 1312 during operation. Several air-flow guiding vanes may be used, and the vanes may also be arranged on the interior of thedust container 1306 or on thehousing 1314. Asupport frame 1316 may also be arranged to provide greater support for thefilter unit 1312. - Referring now to
FIGS. 14A and 14B , a preferred embodiment of acharging stand 1400 for aconvertible stick vacuum 100 is illustrated and described. The chargingstand 1400 provides a storage location for thevacuum 100, and, if thevacuum 100 is operated by rechargeable batteries, may also provide a charging system that connects to and charges the rechargeable batteries. The chargingstand 1400 preferably comprises a base 1402 that is adapted to stand on a floor or other surface, and an upright 1404 that extends upwardly from thebase 1402. Ahook 1406 protrudes from the front surface of the upright 1404 to engage a corresponding slot 380 (FIG. 3 ) on thestick vacuum 100, and a pair ofelectrical contacts 1408 are provided adjacent thehook 1406 to contact corresponding mainelectrical contacts 348 on thestick assembly 1002. A pair of side guides 1410 protrude from theupright 1404 along each side of thehook 1406 andcontacts 1408 to help guide theslot 380 onto thehook 1406 and prevent thevacuum 100 from rotating side-to-side on thehook 1406. The upright 1404 may be constructed separately and removable from thebase 1402 and adapted to mount to a wall or other generally vertical surface. One ormore lights 1420 may also be provided to indicate, for example, that the device is charging or connected to a wall outlet. - In a preferred embodiment, the charging
stand 1400 also provides storage for one or more cleaning accessories or tools associated with thevacuum cleaner 100. For example, in the embodiment ofFIGS. 14A and 14B , anupholstery brush 1412 andcrevice tool 1414 are stored in correspondingopenings upright 1404. Snaps, hooks, or other mechanisms may be used to retain thebrush 1412 andcrevice tool 1414 in theirrespective openings brush 1412 andcrevice tool 1414 can be inserted in thehandheld inlet nozzle 114 for use therewith. In this embodiment, thetools vacuum cleaner 100 is mounted on thecharging stand 1400, which may provide a more desirable aesthetic appearance and help prevent loss of thetools - While the foregoing tool storage system is preferred, tools or other devices, such as replacement belts, filters, and the like, can be stored in the charging stand in other ways. Examples of such alternatives are shown in FIGS. 15A-D, which all provide a
base 1502 having an upright 1504 and mountinghook 1506, as described with reference to FIGS. 14A-B. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 15A and 15B , for example,tools 1508 and the like may be stored in anopening 1510 in thebase 1502 that may be covered by adoor 1512. In the embodiment ofFIG. 15C , thetools 1508 are stored inopenings 1514 located on the sides of the charging stand. In the embodiment ofFIG. 15D , the tools are stored incompartments 1516 in the side of thebase 1502. The tools also may be stored on posts that extend from the charging stand, rather than being recessed openings. Other variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein. - While the
convertible stick vacuum 100 may be adapted to be suspended from a charging stand, such as those disclosed herein, it will also be appreciated that the stick vacuum could be constructed such that it can stand on its own. - The embodiments described herein are preferred, but are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Many additional variations of the embodiments described herein will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the present disclosure and with practice of the invention. Furthermore, while various features of the invention have been described as being used together, it will be appreciated that many of these features have separate utility and inventiveness on their own, and are not required to be used together in every or any embodiment of the invention. As such, the present invention includes embodiments in which the features described herein are used individually or in various other inventive combinations. Such alternative embodiments, modifications and combinations of the various features described herein are within the scope of the present invention, which is limited only by the appended claims.
Claims (20)
1. A vacuum cleaner comprising:
a handle having a handle air passage extending therein;
a base attached to a first end of the handle by an articulating joint, the base having a base inlet positioned to face a surface to be cleaned;
a base air passage extending from the base inlet, past the articulated joint by a flexible hose, and to the handle air passage;
a dirt collection assembly associated with the handle, and in fluid communication with the handle air passage;
a fan associated with the handle, and in fluid communication with the handle air passage;
a motor associated with the handle, and adapted to drive the fan to thereby generate an airflow through the base inlet, flexible hose, handle air passage, and dirt collection assembly;
wherein the flexible hose comprises a generally rectangular cross-section along a substantial portion thereof.
2. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1 , wherein the flexible hose is attached to the base at a first end thereof, and to the handle at a second end thereof, and wherein the flexible hose is connected to one or both of the base and the handle by a quick release fitting.
3. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1 , wherein the flexible hose is positioned behind, and at least partially concealed by, the articulating joint when viewed from the front of the vacuum cleaner.
4. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1 , wherein the dirt collection assembly comprises at least one of a cyclone separator, a flat filter, and a bag filter.
5. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1 , wherein the handle air passage comprises a generally rectangular cross-section along at least a portion thereof.
6. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1 , wherein the fan and motor are mounted within the handle.
7. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1 , wherein the fan, motor and dirt collection assembly are mounted to a canister, the canister being selectively connectable to the handle air passage by a canister hose.
8. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1 , wherein the flexible hose has a generally rectangular cross-section along substantially all of its length.
9. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1 , wherein the flexible hose comprises a portion that flexes during normal use, and one or more portions that do not flex by a substantial amount during normal use, and the portion that flexes during normal use has a generally rectangular cross-section along substantially all of its length.
10. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1 , wherein the articulating joint comprises at least two pivot axes.
11. A vacuum cleaner comprising:
a handle having a handle air passage extending therein;
a base attached to a first end of the handle by an articulating joint, the base having a base inlet positioned to face a surface to be cleaned;
a base air passage extending from the base inlet, past the articulated joint by a flexible hose having a generally rectangular cross-section along a substantial portion thereof, and to the handle air passage;
a handheld unit selectively removable from the handle, the handheld unit comprising a handheld unit inlet, a dirt collection assembly, a fan, and a motor, the motor being adapted to drive the fan to thereby generate an airflow through the handheld unit inlet and the dirt collection assembly;
wherein the handheld unit inlet is in fluid communication with the handle air passage when the handheld unit is attached to the handle, and when so positioned, the motor is adapted to drive the fan to thereby generate an airflow through the base air passage, the handle air passage, the handheld unit inlet, and the dirt collection assembly.
12. The vacuum cleaner of claim 11 , wherein the flexible hose is attached to the base at a first end thereof, and to the handle at a second end thereof, and wherein the flexible hose is connected to one or both of the base and the handle by a quick release fitting.
13. The vacuum cleaner of claim 11 , wherein the flexible hose is positioned behind and at least partially concealed by the articulating joint when viewed from the front of the vacuum cleaner.
14. The vacuum cleaner of claim 11 , wherein the handle air passage comprises a generally rectangular cross-section along at least a portion thereof.
15. The vacuum cleaner of claim 11 , wherein the handheld unit further comprises a handheld conduit extending between the handheld unit inlet and the dirt collection assembly.
16. The vacuum cleaner of claim 15 , wherein the handheld conduit comprises a generally rectangular cross-section along at least a portion thereof.
17. The vacuum cleaner of claim 11 , further comprising at least one elastic seal adapted to seal the handheld unit inlet to the handle air passage when the handheld unit is attached to the handle.
18. The vacuum cleaner of claim 11 , wherein the handheld unit comprises an air outlet positioned to face the handle when the handheld unit is attached to the handle, and the handle comprises an airflow opening positioned to receive exhaust air from the air outlet and pass the exhaust air through the handle.
19. A vacuum cleaner comprising:
a handle having a handle air passage extending therein;
a base attached to a first end of the handle by an articulating joint, the base having a base inlet positioned to face a surface to be cleaned;
an air passage extending from the base inlet, past the articulated joint by a flexible hose, and to the handle air passage;
a dirt collection assembly in fluid communication with the handle air passage;
a fan assembly in fluid communication with the handle air passage;
a motor adapted to drive the fan assembly to thereby generating an airflow through the base inlet, the flexible hose, the handle air passage, and the dirt collection assembly;
wherein the flexible hose comprises a non-ovate cross-section along a substantial portion thereof.
20. The vacuum cleaner of claim 19 , wherein the handle air passage comprises a generally non-ovate cross-section corresponding to the non-ovate cross-section of the flexible hose along at least a portion thereof.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/733,683 US20080040883A1 (en) | 2006-04-10 | 2007-04-10 | Air Flow Losses in a Vacuum Cleaners |
US12/797,870 US8302251B2 (en) | 2006-04-10 | 2010-06-10 | Handheld vacuum unit retention features |
Applications Claiming Priority (8)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
SE0600820-5 | 2006-04-10 | ||
SE0600821 | 2006-04-10 | ||
SE0600820 | 2006-04-10 | ||
SE0600821-3 | 2006-04-10 | ||
SE0700143A SE531125C2 (en) | 2007-01-19 | 2007-01-19 | Improvements in air flow losses in a vacuum cleaner |
SE0700143-1 | 2007-01-19 | ||
US88685707P | 2007-01-26 | 2007-01-26 | |
US11/733,683 US20080040883A1 (en) | 2006-04-10 | 2007-04-10 | Air Flow Losses in a Vacuum Cleaners |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/797,870 Continuation US8302251B2 (en) | 2006-04-10 | 2010-06-10 | Handheld vacuum unit retention features |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080040883A1 true US20080040883A1 (en) | 2008-02-21 |
Family
ID=47080063
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/733,683 Abandoned US20080040883A1 (en) | 2006-04-10 | 2007-04-10 | Air Flow Losses in a Vacuum Cleaners |
US12/797,870 Active 2027-05-26 US8302251B2 (en) | 2006-04-10 | 2010-06-10 | Handheld vacuum unit retention features |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/797,870 Active 2027-05-26 US8302251B2 (en) | 2006-04-10 | 2010-06-10 | Handheld vacuum unit retention features |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20080040883A1 (en) |
Cited By (200)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090077764A1 (en) * | 2007-09-20 | 2009-03-26 | David Charles Hazen | Maneuverable Domestic Cleaning Appliance |
WO2010040523A1 (en) * | 2008-10-10 | 2010-04-15 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner air outlet |
US20100175217A1 (en) * | 2007-08-29 | 2010-07-15 | G.B.D. Corp. | Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatus with externally positioned dirt chamber |
US20100175219A1 (en) * | 2009-01-15 | 2010-07-15 | Seb S.A. | Cyclonic Separation Device With Acceleration Ramp |
FR2940901A1 (en) * | 2009-01-15 | 2010-07-16 | Seb Sa | Filter dust separator for broom vacuum cleaner, has cyclone chamber arranged within vacuum cleaner, and cap arranged in grid filter, where grid filter includes openings to perform evacuation of air flow after removing dust and debris |
US20100229324A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Configuration of a hand vacuum cleaner |
US20100229325A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
WO2010102394A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Hand vacuum cleaner with removable dirt chamber |
US20100229322A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Nozzle construction for a cleaning head |
US20100229328A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatus |
US20100229326A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US20100251506A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-10-07 | G.B.D. Corp. | Configuration of a surface cleaning apparatus |
ITUD20090107A1 (en) * | 2009-05-28 | 2010-11-29 | Longhi Appliances S R L Con So Cio Unico De | INTAKE EQUIPMENT FOR HOME CLEANING |
US20110047746A1 (en) * | 2009-09-01 | 2011-03-03 | Mark Butts | Vacuum cleaner accessory tool having a removable brush |
EP2337485A1 (en) * | 2008-10-16 | 2011-06-29 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Battery powered cordless cleaning system |
US20110219569A1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2011-09-15 | Electrolux Home Care Products, Inc. | Vacuum Cleaner with Movable Wheel |
US20110219581A1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2011-09-15 | Electrolux Home Care Products, Inc. | Vacuum Cleaner with Rotating Handle |
WO2011110826A1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2011-09-15 | Dyson Technology Limited | A vacuum cleaner arrangement |
US20110289720A1 (en) * | 2010-05-31 | 2011-12-01 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Cyclone dust collecting apparatus and hand-held cleaner having the same |
EP2398368A1 (en) * | 2009-02-20 | 2011-12-28 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner nozzle |
WO2012037302A1 (en) * | 2010-09-16 | 2012-03-22 | Cummins Filtration Ip Inc. | Filter assembly with mounting |
US20120222258A1 (en) * | 2011-03-04 | 2012-09-06 | G.B.D. Corp. | Dirt separation apparatus for a surface cleaning apparatus |
US20120222259A1 (en) * | 2011-03-04 | 2012-09-06 | G.B.D. Corp. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable handle assembly |
US20130048553A1 (en) * | 2011-08-31 | 2013-02-28 | Younglong KUK | Suction apparatus for fabric filter and filtering device for liquid filtration using the same |
EP2581010A1 (en) * | 2011-10-12 | 2013-04-17 | Black & Decker Inc. | A battery - powered vacuum cleaner |
US20130139348A1 (en) * | 2009-02-03 | 2013-06-06 | Makita Corporation | Handy cleaners |
DE102012100042A1 (en) * | 2012-01-04 | 2013-07-04 | Miele & Cie. Kg | Hand or table vacuum cleaner i.e. battery-operated table vacuum cleaner, has unlocking device for locking and unlocking container at housing and comprising bracket that is pivotable between positions for locking and unlocking container |
US8590103B2 (en) | 2011-10-05 | 2013-11-26 | Shop Vac Corporation | Vacuum cleaner with removable battery pack |
EP2679133A2 (en) | 2012-06-29 | 2014-01-01 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Dust filter system for a vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner |
DE102012211247A1 (en) * | 2012-06-29 | 2014-01-02 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Combination of a small vacuum cleaner and a vacuum cleaner housing as well as small vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner housing |
US8640301B1 (en) * | 2010-02-26 | 2014-02-04 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Dirt cup latch mechanism for vacuum cleaner |
US20140053518A1 (en) * | 2012-08-27 | 2014-02-27 | Bsh Bosch Und Siemens Hausgerate Gmbh | Extraction apparatus with grease collection channel |
US20140237764A1 (en) * | 2013-02-28 | 2014-08-28 | G.B.D. Corp. | Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus |
US8943647B1 (en) | 2013-08-09 | 2015-02-03 | Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner including a removable handle assembly |
US20150059118A1 (en) * | 2013-09-05 | 2015-03-05 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US8997309B2 (en) | 2012-03-02 | 2015-04-07 | G.B.D. Corp. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9027198B2 (en) | 2013-02-27 | 2015-05-12 | G.B.D. Corp. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9119513B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2015-09-01 | G.B.D. Corp. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
JP2015167731A (en) * | 2014-03-07 | 2015-09-28 | 三菱電機株式会社 | vacuum cleaner |
JP2015173674A (en) * | 2014-03-12 | 2015-10-05 | 日立アプライアンス株式会社 | vacuum cleaner |
JP2015173673A (en) * | 2014-03-12 | 2015-10-05 | 日立アプライアンス株式会社 | vacuum cleaner |
US9161669B2 (en) | 2013-03-01 | 2015-10-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9192269B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2015-11-24 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9204773B2 (en) | 2013-03-01 | 2015-12-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9227151B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-01-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus |
US9227201B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-01-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus |
US9238235B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-01-19 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus |
JP2016039858A (en) * | 2014-08-12 | 2016-03-24 | 株式会社マキタ | Handy cleaner |
US9295995B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-03-29 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus |
US20160088987A1 (en) * | 2014-09-26 | 2016-03-31 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Vacuum cleaner |
US20160097225A1 (en) * | 2014-10-01 | 2016-04-07 | Piolax, Inc. | Lock release apparatus and lock apparatus having the same |
US9314139B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2016-04-19 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9320401B2 (en) | 2013-02-27 | 2016-04-26 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US20160113459A1 (en) * | 2014-10-27 | 2016-04-28 | Conet Industries, Inc. | Dust-container assembly of vacuum cleaner |
US9326652B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-05-03 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US20160143495A1 (en) * | 2009-03-13 | 2016-05-26 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
JP2016520376A (en) * | 2013-05-02 | 2016-07-14 | アクティエボラゲット エレクトロラックス | Cleaning the vacuum cleaner nozzle |
JP2016131792A (en) * | 2015-01-21 | 2016-07-25 | 株式会社東芝 | Electric cleaner |
JP2016137165A (en) * | 2015-01-28 | 2016-08-04 | 日立アプライアンス株式会社 | Charging stand and vacuum cleaner |
US9414725B2 (en) | 2014-12-05 | 2016-08-16 | Panasonic Corporation Of North America | Upright vacuum cleaner with two auxiliary operating modes |
US9420925B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2016-08-23 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9427126B2 (en) | 2013-03-01 | 2016-08-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9433332B2 (en) | 2013-02-27 | 2016-09-06 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9439548B2 (en) | 2014-10-16 | 2016-09-13 | Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. | Battery removal for a vacuum cleaner |
US9451855B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-09-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9451853B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2016-09-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
DE102015104896A1 (en) * | 2015-03-30 | 2016-10-06 | Vorwerk & Co. Interholding Gmbh | Filter for a vacuum cleaner |
JP2016195917A (en) * | 2016-08-30 | 2016-11-24 | シャープ株式会社 | Suction port body and vacuum cleaner including the same |
USD773130S1 (en) * | 2013-05-20 | 2016-11-29 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner |
US9504364B2 (en) | 2008-03-14 | 2016-11-29 | Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited | Battery powered cordless cleaning system |
JP2017018497A (en) * | 2015-07-14 | 2017-01-26 | 東芝ライフスタイル株式会社 | Vacuum cleaner device |
CN106419736A (en) * | 2015-08-04 | 2017-02-22 | 中弘智能高科技(深圳)有限公司 | Mite-eliminating dust collector |
US9585530B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2017-03-07 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9591958B2 (en) | 2013-02-27 | 2017-03-14 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9622630B2 (en) | 2012-03-19 | 2017-04-18 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Upright vacuum cleaner having a support |
US9693666B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2017-07-04 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Compact surface cleaning apparatus |
US20170202413A1 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2017-07-20 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Cleaner |
US20170202414A1 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2017-07-20 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Cleaner |
CN106998973A (en) * | 2014-07-18 | 2017-08-01 | 奥马克罗知识产权有限公司 | Portable surface cleaning device |
CN107198492A (en) * | 2017-06-26 | 2017-09-26 | 美的集团股份有限公司 | Guiding subassembly and dust catcher |
US20170319038A1 (en) * | 2016-05-09 | 2017-11-09 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Cleaner holder |
US9820621B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2017-11-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9888817B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2018-02-13 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
WO2018065069A1 (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2018-04-12 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Low noise stick vaccum cleaner |
WO2018065068A1 (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2018-04-12 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Stick vacuum cleaner with improved filter |
US9949601B2 (en) | 2007-08-29 | 2018-04-24 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatus |
US9962047B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2018-05-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9962052B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2018-05-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9962048B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2018-05-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US20180132687A1 (en) * | 2016-11-16 | 2018-05-17 | Black & Decker Inc. | Cleaning device |
EP3238588A4 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2018-05-30 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US9986880B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2018-06-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10016105B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2018-07-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10016104B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2018-07-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10016106B1 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2018-07-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US10080472B2 (en) | 2010-03-12 | 2018-09-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carriable surface cleaning apparatus |
US20180303303A1 (en) * | 2015-06-24 | 2018-10-25 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner system |
WO2018193239A1 (en) * | 2017-04-20 | 2018-10-25 | Tti (Macao Commercial Offshore) Limited | Suction cleaner |
WO2018193268A1 (en) * | 2017-04-21 | 2018-10-25 | Grey Technology Limited | Bagged vacuum cleaner |
US20180310786A1 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2018-11-01 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US10136778B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2018-11-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10143345B2 (en) | 2016-01-22 | 2018-12-04 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaning apparatus |
WO2018234757A1 (en) * | 2017-06-19 | 2018-12-27 | Tti (Macao Commercial Offshore) Limited | A surface cleaning apparatus |
US10165914B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2019-01-01 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10165912B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2019-01-01 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US20190008348A1 (en) * | 2017-07-06 | 2019-01-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US20190008338A1 (en) * | 2017-07-06 | 2019-01-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US20190008342A1 (en) * | 2017-07-06 | 2019-01-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10214349B2 (en) | 2016-12-28 | 2019-02-26 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning apparatus |
US10244909B2 (en) | 2016-12-28 | 2019-04-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning apparatus |
US10244910B2 (en) | 2016-12-28 | 2019-04-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning apparatus |
US10251519B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2019-04-09 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10258210B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2019-04-16 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US10258208B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2019-04-16 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10271704B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2019-04-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
DE102017220700A1 (en) * | 2017-11-20 | 2019-05-23 | BSH Hausgeräte GmbH | Centrifugal separator with reduced height |
US10299643B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2019-05-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US10299648B2 (en) | 2016-01-22 | 2019-05-28 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner |
US10322873B2 (en) | 2016-12-28 | 2019-06-18 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning apparatus |
DE102017222735A1 (en) * | 2017-12-14 | 2019-06-19 | Vorwerk & Co. Interholding Gmbh | Vacuum cleaner with battery |
US10369508B2 (en) | 2017-02-23 | 2019-08-06 | Baldwin Filters, Inc. | Filter with shield features |
US10390670B2 (en) | 2016-01-22 | 2019-08-27 | Dyson Technology Limited | Separating apparatus and vacuum cleaner |
WO2019166763A1 (en) * | 2018-03-02 | 2019-09-06 | Dyson Technology Limited | A dock for a handheld product |
US10405709B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2019-09-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US10405708B2 (en) | 2015-09-17 | 2019-09-10 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner |
JP2019162285A (en) * | 2018-03-20 | 2019-09-26 | 三菱電機株式会社 | Cleaner system |
US10433687B2 (en) | 2015-09-17 | 2019-10-08 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner |
US20190328190A1 (en) * | 2018-04-25 | 2019-10-31 | Tennant Company | High performance handheld liquid suction device |
US10464746B2 (en) | 2016-12-28 | 2019-11-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning apparatus |
US10470624B2 (en) | 2015-09-17 | 2019-11-12 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner |
US10506904B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2019-12-17 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10537216B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2020-01-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10568477B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2020-02-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10624509B2 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2020-04-21 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US10631693B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2020-04-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
WO2020108729A1 (en) * | 2018-11-26 | 2020-06-04 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner with removable container |
US10674884B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2020-06-09 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
CN111386063A (en) * | 2017-12-14 | 2020-07-07 | 伊莱克斯公司 | Vacuum cleaner assembly |
US10729294B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2020-08-04 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10765277B2 (en) | 2006-12-12 | 2020-09-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Configuration of a surface cleaning apparatus |
US10791889B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2020-10-06 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10827891B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2020-11-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US10842330B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2020-11-24 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10870074B2 (en) | 2015-07-15 | 2020-12-22 | Baldwin Filters, Inc. | Multi-component holding assembly for multi-panel air filter |
US10952583B2 (en) | 2018-03-16 | 2021-03-23 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US10959588B2 (en) | 2018-03-16 | 2021-03-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US10959585B2 (en) | 2018-03-16 | 2021-03-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US20210121031A1 (en) * | 2019-10-24 | 2021-04-29 | Makita Corporation | Dust extractor |
US11006799B2 (en) | 2018-08-13 | 2021-05-18 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclonic air treatment member and surface cleaning apparatus including the same |
US11013378B2 (en) | 2018-04-20 | 2021-05-25 | Omachon Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11013384B2 (en) | 2018-08-13 | 2021-05-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclonic air treatment member and surface cleaning apparatus including the same |
WO2021138179A1 (en) * | 2020-01-03 | 2021-07-08 | Techtronic Cordless Gp | Vacuum cleaner assembly |
US11096544B2 (en) | 2018-06-22 | 2021-08-24 | Bissell Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus and tray |
USD937513S1 (en) | 2019-09-16 | 2021-11-30 | Techtronic Cordless Gp | Floor cleaner |
US11192122B2 (en) | 2018-08-13 | 2021-12-07 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclonic air treatment member and surface cleaning apparatus including the same |
US11241129B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2022-02-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11246462B2 (en) | 2019-11-18 | 2022-02-15 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multi-inlet cyclone |
US11285495B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2022-03-29 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US20220125257A1 (en) * | 2009-03-13 | 2022-04-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
IT202000029702A1 (en) * | 2020-12-03 | 2022-06-03 | Tech Systems By Moro Srl | DEVICE FOR JOINING AND TRANSMISSION OF THE ROTARY MOTION BETWEEN THE UPPER GUIDE BODY AND THE LOWER CLEANING BODY OF AN APPARATUS FOR CLEANING AND/OR TREATING WALKABLE SURFACES |
US11357370B2 (en) * | 2015-11-10 | 2022-06-14 | Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. | Handheld vacuum cleaner |
WO2022172484A1 (en) * | 2021-02-09 | 2022-08-18 | 日立グローバルライフソリューションズ株式会社 | Electric vacuum cleaner |
JP2022122033A (en) * | 2021-02-09 | 2022-08-22 | 日立グローバルライフソリューションズ株式会社 | Electric vacuum cleaner |
WO2022176584A1 (en) * | 2021-02-18 | 2022-08-25 | アイリスオーヤマ株式会社 | Electric vacuum cleaner |
US11439285B2 (en) | 2018-03-16 | 2022-09-13 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US11445873B2 (en) * | 2014-12-17 | 2022-09-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US11445878B2 (en) | 2020-03-18 | 2022-09-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable air treatment member assembly |
US11445871B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2022-09-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11445872B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2022-09-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11452409B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2022-09-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
JP2022150130A (en) * | 2021-03-26 | 2022-10-07 | 日立グローバルライフソリューションズ株式会社 | Vacuum cleaner and storage battery unit |
US11534041B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2022-12-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11547254B2 (en) * | 2018-03-14 | 2023-01-10 | Infinite Appliances Ltd | Vacuum cleaning apparatus |
US11596282B2 (en) * | 2018-06-19 | 2023-03-07 | Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation | Vacuum cleaner |
US11653799B2 (en) | 2020-01-03 | 2023-05-23 | Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited | Adapter for vacuum cleaner assembly |
US11666193B2 (en) | 2020-03-18 | 2023-06-06 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable air treatment member assembly |
US11666189B2 (en) | 2006-12-12 | 2023-06-06 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with a variable inlet flow area |
US11690489B2 (en) | 2009-03-13 | 2023-07-04 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with an external dirt chamber |
US11730327B2 (en) | 2020-03-18 | 2023-08-22 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable air treatment assembly |
US11745190B2 (en) | 2019-01-23 | 2023-09-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11751740B2 (en) | 2019-11-18 | 2023-09-12 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multi-inlet cyclone |
US11751733B2 (en) | 2007-08-29 | 2023-09-12 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US11766156B2 (en) | 2020-03-18 | 2023-09-26 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable air treatment member assembly |
US11779174B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2023-10-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11779178B2 (en) | 2021-08-05 | 2023-10-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Household appliance having an improved cyclone and a cyclone for same |
US11793374B2 (en) * | 2006-12-12 | 2023-10-24 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with a variable inlet flow area |
US11793375B2 (en) * | 2019-10-22 | 2023-10-24 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Conversion member and electric cleaner including the same |
US11819178B2 (en) * | 2018-11-26 | 2023-11-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US20230389761A1 (en) * | 2014-07-18 | 2023-12-07 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11857142B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2024-01-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus having an energy storage member and a charger for an energy storage member |
USD1013989S1 (en) * | 2021-04-01 | 2024-02-06 | Cixi Mongsun Electric Appliance Co., Ltd | Vacuum cleaner |
US11903546B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2024-02-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11918170B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2024-03-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
EP4275571A3 (en) * | 2009-08-27 | 2024-03-13 | i-mop GmbH | Handheld floor treatment device |
US11950750B2 (en) | 2018-08-13 | 2024-04-09 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclonic air treatment member and surface cleaning apparatus including the same |
US12029375B2 (en) | 2017-09-22 | 2024-07-09 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Hand-held surface cleaning device |
US12044484B2 (en) | 2022-03-31 | 2024-07-23 | Deere & Company | Heat tube for heat exchanger |
US12048409B2 (en) | 2007-03-11 | 2024-07-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US12075966B2 (en) | 2021-08-05 | 2024-09-03 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Household appliance having an improved cyclone and a cyclone for same |
US12082759B2 (en) | 2017-09-15 | 2024-09-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
Families Citing this family (31)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102010013756A1 (en) * | 2010-03-31 | 2011-10-06 | Andreas Stihl Ag & Co. Kg | Hand-held implement |
US20120030897A1 (en) * | 2010-08-05 | 2012-02-09 | James Todd Crouch | Hand-held and conversion vacuum cleaner |
US20120222252A1 (en) * | 2011-03-04 | 2012-09-06 | G.B.D. Corp. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US20120246866A1 (en) * | 2011-03-28 | 2012-10-04 | Emerson Electric Co. | Support System Adjustable by Like Motion and Method of Use |
DE102012206624A1 (en) * | 2012-04-23 | 2013-10-24 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | System with a vacuum cleaner and a hand vacuum cleaner |
EP2890283B1 (en) * | 2012-08-29 | 2017-08-02 | Alfred Kärcher GmbH & Co. KG | Extension device of a hard surfaces vacuum cleaning system |
GB2509991B (en) * | 2013-01-22 | 2015-03-11 | Dyson Technology Ltd | Docking station for a mobile robot |
US9775484B2 (en) * | 2013-03-01 | 2017-10-03 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
USD740502S1 (en) | 2014-08-12 | 2015-10-06 | Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation | Vacuum cleaner |
JP6369213B2 (en) * | 2014-08-12 | 2018-08-08 | 三菱電機株式会社 | Rechargeable vacuum cleaner |
US9700189B2 (en) | 2014-08-12 | 2017-07-11 | Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. | System and method of resetting power in a cleaning system |
KR101653449B1 (en) * | 2014-08-21 | 2016-09-01 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | Vacuum cleaner |
GB2539933B (en) | 2015-07-01 | 2017-10-11 | Dyson Technology Ltd | A separating apparatus |
GB2540134B (en) | 2015-07-01 | 2017-10-11 | Dyson Technology Ltd | A separating apparatus |
USD811030S1 (en) * | 2015-09-02 | 2018-02-20 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US20170105591A1 (en) * | 2015-10-14 | 2017-04-20 | Tammy Bernhard-Tanis | Small Portable Handheld Vacuum Device |
US10080471B2 (en) | 2015-12-21 | 2018-09-25 | Electrolux Home Care Products, Inc. | Versatile vacuum cleaners |
FR3046046B1 (en) | 2015-12-23 | 2017-12-22 | Seb Sa | GEOMETRY OF AERAULIC CIRCUIT FOR A HAND VACUUM |
USD813475S1 (en) | 2016-06-01 | 2018-03-20 | Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation | Handheld vacuum cleaner |
USD897059S1 (en) * | 2017-10-20 | 2020-09-22 | Shenzhen Hizero Technologies Co., Ltd. | Floor cleaner |
CN110367873B (en) * | 2018-04-13 | 2021-05-28 | 添可电器有限公司 | Multi-power split type dust collector and power supply method thereof |
DE102018116687A1 (en) * | 2018-07-10 | 2020-01-16 | Miele & Cie. Kg | vacuum cleaner |
JP2021531108A (en) * | 2018-07-20 | 2021-11-18 | シャークニンジャ オペレーティング エルエルシー | Robot Cleaner Debris Removal Docking Station |
EP3712521B1 (en) * | 2019-03-19 | 2023-01-18 | LG Electronics Inc. | Air purifier and air purifying system |
CN111720908B (en) | 2019-03-19 | 2022-04-01 | Lg电子株式会社 | Air purifier, air purification system and method for controlling air purification system |
EP3712519B1 (en) | 2019-03-19 | 2022-12-07 | LG Electronics Inc. | Air purifying system and method for controlling the air purifying system |
US11273505B2 (en) * | 2019-03-27 | 2022-03-15 | Dustless Depot, Llc | Circular saw dust collection shroud |
USD924510S1 (en) * | 2019-04-09 | 2021-07-06 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Frame for a stick vacuum cleaner |
USD911641S1 (en) * | 2019-12-27 | 2021-02-23 | Shenzhen Qianhai Patuoxun Network And Technology Co., Ltd | Hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US11350806B2 (en) | 2020-01-03 | 2022-06-07 | Techtronic Cordless Gp | Handheld vacuum cleaner |
DE102021004606A1 (en) | 2021-09-08 | 2023-03-09 | Producteers International Gmbh | Portable suction device |
Citations (97)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2707792A (en) * | 1950-11-24 | 1955-05-10 | Henney Motor Company Inc | Rotary brush for suction cleaners |
US3199138A (en) * | 1963-04-22 | 1965-08-10 | Whirlpool Co | Cleaner |
US3621640A (en) * | 1968-10-14 | 1971-11-23 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Electric vacuum cleaner |
US3906219A (en) * | 1973-10-09 | 1975-09-16 | Honeywell Inc | Focus detecting apparatus |
US4213224A (en) * | 1978-08-21 | 1980-07-22 | Shop-Vac Corporation | By-pass type portable vacuum cleaner |
US4276070A (en) * | 1978-12-23 | 1981-06-30 | Rommag P. Worwag & Co. | Removable dust collecting container for professional and household vacuum cleaners |
US4376322A (en) * | 1979-09-21 | 1983-03-15 | National Union Electric Corporation | Suction cleaner |
US4467493A (en) * | 1982-09-16 | 1984-08-28 | The Hoover Company | Latching arrangement for a floor care appliance with mounted accessory appliance |
US4541142A (en) * | 1983-01-12 | 1985-09-17 | Cep Continental Engineering Products Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US4545089A (en) * | 1982-09-17 | 1985-10-08 | The Hoover Company | Floor care appliance with mounted accessory appliance |
US4573234A (en) * | 1984-01-30 | 1986-03-04 | The Scott & Fetzer Company | Hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US4573237A (en) * | 1984-04-10 | 1986-03-04 | The Scott & Fetzer Company | Hand vacuum with tilting intake |
US4621390A (en) * | 1984-10-09 | 1986-11-11 | National Union Electric Corporation | Vacuum cleaner assembly |
US4635315A (en) * | 1985-07-26 | 1987-01-13 | Burton Kozak | Upright converter for portable vacuum |
US4665582A (en) * | 1985-02-22 | 1987-05-19 | National Union Electric Corp. | Lightweight battery powered suction broom |
US4670701A (en) * | 1984-11-19 | 1987-06-02 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Rechargeable cordless vacuum cleaner apparatus |
US4704765A (en) * | 1984-06-11 | 1987-11-10 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Portable vacuum cleaner |
US4748713A (en) * | 1984-10-09 | 1988-06-07 | National Union Electric | Vacuum cleaner assembly |
US4766638A (en) * | 1987-03-04 | 1988-08-30 | Bissell Inc. | Four-way vacuum cleaner |
US4787923A (en) * | 1986-08-27 | 1988-11-29 | Tennant Company | Apparatus for cleaning an air filter |
US4804481A (en) * | 1986-09-16 | 1989-02-14 | Boll & Kirch Filterbau Gmbh | Helical spring apparatus and process for detaching filter cake |
USD300214S (en) * | 1985-12-19 | 1989-03-14 | North American Philips Corporation | Charger base for hand held battery operated vacuum cleaner |
US4821366A (en) * | 1988-05-03 | 1989-04-18 | Cic Int'l. Corp. | Wet-dry vacuum cleaner |
US4831685A (en) * | 1987-11-27 | 1989-05-23 | The Hoover Company | Wet and dry vacuum cleaner |
US4841594A (en) * | 1986-11-07 | 1989-06-27 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Cordless vacuum cleaner with power brush |
US4876763A (en) * | 1987-12-31 | 1989-10-31 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US4894882A (en) * | 1987-01-13 | 1990-01-23 | Sanyo Electric Company, Ltd. | Portable vacuum cleaner |
US4899418A (en) * | 1987-07-24 | 1990-02-13 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable wet/dry vacuum cleaner and recharging base |
US4920608A (en) * | 1988-08-08 | 1990-05-01 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable hand held vacuum cleaner |
USD307657S (en) * | 1987-07-09 | 1990-05-01 | Benny Li | Vacuum cleaner |
US4920606A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-05-01 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Electrical power circuit for a vacuum cleaner |
US4928346A (en) * | 1986-11-07 | 1990-05-29 | Black & Decker Inc. | Hand-held vacuum cleaner with power brush |
US4934020A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-06-19 | Black & Decker Inc. | Charging unit and vacuum cleaner |
US4942641A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-07-24 | Black & Decker Inc. | Accessory brush attachment |
US4947514A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-08-14 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Internal contact for a charging circuit |
US4967443A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-11-06 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Filter assembly for a vacuum cleaner |
US4993106A (en) * | 1988-08-08 | 1991-02-19 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable hand held vacuum cleaner |
US5005252A (en) * | 1987-07-24 | 1991-04-09 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable wet/dry vacuum cleaner and recharging base |
US5020187A (en) * | 1990-03-19 | 1991-06-04 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Filter assembly for a vacuum cleaner |
US5025529A (en) * | 1988-08-08 | 1991-06-25 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable hand held vacuum cleaner |
US5035024A (en) * | 1987-07-24 | 1991-07-30 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable wet/dry vacuum cleaner and recharging base |
US5065473A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1991-11-19 | Black & Decker Inc. | Filter assembly for a vacuum cleaner |
US5107567A (en) * | 1990-03-01 | 1992-04-28 | White Consolidated Industries, Inc. | Stick type vacuum cleaner with a dirt cup secured by a finger-operated latch |
US5309600A (en) * | 1993-02-12 | 1994-05-10 | Bissell Inc. | Vacuum cleaner with a detachable vacuum module |
US5322534A (en) * | 1993-02-11 | 1994-06-21 | Kaiser David M | Self-cleaning upside-down air filter |
US5342433A (en) * | 1993-05-10 | 1994-08-30 | Aercology, Inc. | Dust collector with bimodal shaker |
USD352807S (en) * | 1992-06-24 | 1994-11-22 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner |
USD364013S (en) * | 1993-02-12 | 1995-11-07 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Battery fed vacuum cleaner |
US5524321A (en) * | 1994-02-14 | 1996-06-11 | Bissell Inc. | Vacuum Cleaner with a detachable vacuum module |
US5561885A (en) * | 1995-01-13 | 1996-10-08 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Portable hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US5603740A (en) * | 1995-03-27 | 1997-02-18 | Roy; Michel | Suction activated reciprocating system |
US5661885A (en) * | 1995-12-15 | 1997-09-02 | Donato; Carl J. | Valve-spring compressing tool |
US5715566A (en) * | 1993-02-12 | 1998-02-10 | Bissell Inc. | Cleaning machine with a detachable cleaning module |
US5733351A (en) * | 1996-08-12 | 1998-03-31 | Emerson Electric Co. | Two stage vacuum cleaner filter |
US5869947A (en) * | 1995-01-13 | 1999-02-09 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Rechargeable hand held vacuum cleaner with electrical connections circuit board with spring contacts |
US5966774A (en) * | 1996-11-30 | 1999-10-19 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US6029313A (en) * | 1996-11-15 | 2000-02-29 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Vacuum cleaner with cantilevered drive system and removable belt access door |
US6094775A (en) * | 1997-03-05 | 2000-08-01 | Bsh Bosch Und Siemens Hausgeraete Gmbh | Multifunctional vacuum cleaning appliance |
US6108864A (en) * | 1998-01-09 | 2000-08-29 | White Consolidated Industries, Inc. | Vacuum cleaner having a reusable dirt cup |
US6122796A (en) * | 1995-12-04 | 2000-09-26 | Electrolux Household Appliances Limited | Suction cleaning apparatus |
US6125498A (en) * | 1997-12-05 | 2000-10-03 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Handheld extraction cleaner |
US6146434A (en) * | 1999-02-24 | 2000-11-14 | The Hoover Company | Cyclonic dirt cup assembly |
US6311366B1 (en) * | 1998-11-18 | 2001-11-06 | White Consolidated Industries, Inc. | Battery power combination vacuum cleaner |
US6428589B1 (en) * | 2000-09-29 | 2002-08-06 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Two-stage particle separator for vacuum cleaners |
US6434785B1 (en) * | 2000-04-19 | 2002-08-20 | Headwaters Research & Development, Inc | Dual filter wet/dry hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US6546592B1 (en) * | 1999-07-17 | 2003-04-15 | Black & Decker Inc. | Dual filter vacuum cleaner apparatus |
US6571421B1 (en) * | 2000-10-03 | 2003-06-03 | John Chun Kuen Sham | Vacuum cleaner and steamer apparatus |
US20030159235A1 (en) * | 2002-02-28 | 2003-08-28 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Cyclone dust collecting apparatus for a vacuum cleaner |
US20030163887A1 (en) * | 2002-03-04 | 2003-09-04 | Twinbird Corporation | Cyclonic vacuum cleaner |
US6625845B2 (en) * | 2000-03-24 | 2003-09-30 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Cyclonic vacuum cleaner |
US20030208879A1 (en) * | 2002-05-11 | 2003-11-13 | Jang-Keun Oh | Cyclone-type dust collecting apparatus for vacuum cleaner |
US6647587B1 (en) * | 1999-08-02 | 2003-11-18 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner using centrifugal force dust collection to prevent filter blinding |
US20030213091A1 (en) * | 2002-05-16 | 2003-11-20 | Jang-Keun Oh | Cyclone-type dust-collecting apparatus for vacuum cleaner |
US6736873B2 (en) * | 1999-01-08 | 2004-05-18 | G.B.D. Corporation | Air flow passage for a vacuum cleaner |
US20040098957A1 (en) * | 2002-11-22 | 2004-05-27 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Dust collecting filter of vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner having the same |
US20040134022A1 (en) * | 2003-01-10 | 2004-07-15 | Royal Manufacturing Co. | Bagless stick type vacuum cleaner |
US6766558B1 (en) * | 1999-07-19 | 2004-07-27 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Vacuum cleaner |
US6775882B2 (en) * | 2002-01-11 | 2004-08-17 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Stick vacuum with dirt cup |
US20040177471A1 (en) * | 2003-03-13 | 2004-09-16 | Il-Du Jung | Filter assembly for cyclone type dust collecting apparatus of a vacuum cleaner |
US20040187253A1 (en) * | 2003-03-31 | 2004-09-30 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Filter cleaning device of cyclone vacuum cleaner |
US20040200029A1 (en) * | 2003-04-14 | 2004-10-14 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Filter assembly for a cyclone-type dust collecting apparatus of vacuum cleaner |
US6811584B2 (en) * | 2002-02-28 | 2004-11-02 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Cyclone dust collecting apparatus for a vacuum cleaner |
US20040216263A1 (en) * | 2000-05-05 | 2004-11-04 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Vacuum cleaner with detachable cyclonic vacuum module |
US6824580B2 (en) * | 2002-02-28 | 2004-11-30 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Cyclone dust collecting apparatus for a vacuum cleaner |
US6839934B2 (en) * | 2001-07-25 | 2005-01-11 | Black & Decker Inc. | Multi-operational battery powered vacuum cleaner |
US20050005931A1 (en) * | 2000-02-08 | 2005-01-13 | Doane Mark William | Masks and their manufacture |
US20050005390A1 (en) * | 2003-07-09 | 2005-01-13 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Filter assembly for vacuum cleaner |
US6857165B2 (en) * | 2002-02-27 | 2005-02-22 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Grill assembly for a cyclone-type dust collecting apparatus for a vacuum cleaner |
US20050081321A1 (en) * | 2003-10-15 | 2005-04-21 | Milligan Michael A. | Hand-held cordless vacuum cleaner |
US20050125939A1 (en) * | 2000-05-05 | 2005-06-16 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Cyclonic dirt separation module |
US20050183406A1 (en) * | 2004-02-10 | 2005-08-25 | Eric Coburn | Filter assembly for vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner incorporating such assembly |
US6948211B2 (en) * | 2001-01-12 | 2005-09-27 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Vacuum cleaner with noise suppression features |
US6964082B2 (en) * | 2002-12-23 | 2005-11-15 | Zweita International Co., Ltd. | Waste recycle vacuum cleaner for generating power |
US20060156508A1 (en) * | 2005-01-14 | 2006-07-20 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Vacuum cleaner with cyclonic separating dirt cup and dirt cup door |
US7386916B2 (en) * | 2003-08-05 | 2008-06-17 | Black & Decker Inc. | Self-cleaning vacuum cleaner and receptacle therefor |
US7404838B1 (en) * | 2004-07-09 | 2008-07-29 | Pathak Pinakin Y | Support for an air filter |
US7412749B2 (en) * | 2005-01-24 | 2008-08-19 | Euro-Pro Operating, Llc | Vacuum cleaner and floor dustpan system |
Family Cites Families (32)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3653189A (en) * | 1969-01-20 | 1972-04-04 | Sanyo Electric Co | Vacuum cleaner |
US4421964A (en) * | 1982-04-02 | 1983-12-20 | The Hoover Company | Remote switch actuation |
GB2155314B (en) | 1984-03-07 | 1987-03-11 | Cic Int Corp | Wet-dry vacuum cleaner |
USD304104S (en) * | 1986-06-11 | 1989-10-17 | Rowenta-Werke Gmbh | Cordless vacuum cleaner |
DE8623004U1 (en) | 1986-08-28 | 1986-10-30 | Rowenta-Werke Gmbh, 6050 Offenbach | Support plate for small vacuum cleaners |
DE4038262A1 (en) | 1990-11-30 | 1992-06-04 | Siemens Ag | Vacuum cleaner with housing fixed at guide tube provided with connecting cable - has cable hook arranged at guide tube in fixing region of housing so that it can swivel and be locked by housing in position accepting connection cable |
US5819364A (en) * | 1992-09-09 | 1998-10-13 | Pentalpha Enterprises, Ltd. | Detachable handle accessory for a portable steam vacuum cleaner |
EP1009791A1 (en) | 1997-08-08 | 2000-06-21 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Laundry detergent compositions with amino acid based polymers to provide appearance and integrity benefits to fabrics laundered therewith |
US6550098B2 (en) | 1997-12-05 | 2003-04-22 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Extraction cleaner with tank retention |
DE19820628C1 (en) * | 1998-05-08 | 1999-09-23 | Kaercher Gmbh & Co Alfred | Roller mounting or carpet sweeper |
US6345408B1 (en) * | 1998-07-28 | 2002-02-12 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Electric vacuum cleaner and nozzle unit therefor |
US6131239A (en) | 1999-03-31 | 2000-10-17 | White; Carl Lee | Ground debris vacuum |
GB2349105C (en) | 1999-04-23 | 2005-04-04 | Dyson Technology Ltd | A filter assembly |
JP3868679B2 (en) | 1999-09-14 | 2007-01-17 | 株式会社日立製作所 | Electric vacuum cleaner |
JP2001095735A (en) | 1999-09-30 | 2001-04-10 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Vacuum cleaner |
GB2362341B (en) | 2000-05-16 | 2002-12-04 | Samsung Kwangju Electronics Co | Upright-type vacuum cleaner |
JP2001353110A (en) | 2000-06-14 | 2001-12-25 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Electric vacuum cleaner |
GB2363744B (en) | 2000-06-24 | 2002-11-13 | Samsung Kwangju Electronics Co | Upright type vacuum cleaner having a cyclone-type dust collector |
KR100398684B1 (en) * | 2000-11-27 | 2003-09-19 | 삼성광주전자 주식회사 | Cyclone dust-collecting apparatus for vacuum cleaner |
JP3635657B2 (en) | 2001-01-22 | 2005-04-06 | ツインバード工業株式会社 | Cyclone vacuum cleaner |
GB0104680D0 (en) | 2001-02-24 | 2001-04-11 | Dyson Ltd | A collecting chamber for a vacuum cleaner |
KR100412583B1 (en) | 2001-07-28 | 2003-12-31 | 삼성광주전자 주식회사 | Vaccum cleaner |
KR100487306B1 (en) * | 2001-12-28 | 2005-05-03 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | vacuum cleaner |
US20040040270A1 (en) * | 2002-08-29 | 2004-03-04 | Mineyuki Inoue | Cyclonic vacuum cleaner |
DE10256029A1 (en) * | 2002-11-30 | 2004-06-09 | Düpro AG | Suction cleaning tool with an exchange unit |
SE0300355D0 (en) | 2003-02-10 | 2003-02-10 | Electrolux Ab | Hand held vacuum cleaner |
KR20050058163A (en) * | 2003-12-11 | 2005-06-16 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | An up right type vacuum cleaner |
GB2425249B (en) | 2004-03-02 | 2007-08-08 | Bissell Homecare Inc | Vacuum cleaner with detachable cyclonic vacuum module |
GB2413942B (en) | 2004-05-13 | 2007-07-18 | Dyson Ltd | Tool for a surface treating appliance |
DE102004046383B4 (en) * | 2004-09-24 | 2009-06-18 | Stein & Co Gmbh | Device for brushing roller of floor care appliances |
US20060090290A1 (en) * | 2004-11-01 | 2006-05-04 | Lau Ying W | Handheld vacuum with accelerated cyclonic flow and air freshener |
US20070163075A1 (en) * | 2006-01-17 | 2007-07-19 | Butler Dennis C | Stair cleaning vacuum cleaner |
-
2007
- 2007-04-10 US US11/733,683 patent/US20080040883A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2010
- 2010-06-10 US US12/797,870 patent/US8302251B2/en active Active
Patent Citations (100)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2707792A (en) * | 1950-11-24 | 1955-05-10 | Henney Motor Company Inc | Rotary brush for suction cleaners |
US3199138A (en) * | 1963-04-22 | 1965-08-10 | Whirlpool Co | Cleaner |
US3621640A (en) * | 1968-10-14 | 1971-11-23 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Electric vacuum cleaner |
US3906219A (en) * | 1973-10-09 | 1975-09-16 | Honeywell Inc | Focus detecting apparatus |
US4213224A (en) * | 1978-08-21 | 1980-07-22 | Shop-Vac Corporation | By-pass type portable vacuum cleaner |
US4276070A (en) * | 1978-12-23 | 1981-06-30 | Rommag P. Worwag & Co. | Removable dust collecting container for professional and household vacuum cleaners |
US4376322A (en) * | 1979-09-21 | 1983-03-15 | National Union Electric Corporation | Suction cleaner |
US4467493A (en) * | 1982-09-16 | 1984-08-28 | The Hoover Company | Latching arrangement for a floor care appliance with mounted accessory appliance |
US4545089A (en) * | 1982-09-17 | 1985-10-08 | The Hoover Company | Floor care appliance with mounted accessory appliance |
US4541142A (en) * | 1983-01-12 | 1985-09-17 | Cep Continental Engineering Products Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US4573234A (en) * | 1984-01-30 | 1986-03-04 | The Scott & Fetzer Company | Hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US4573237A (en) * | 1984-04-10 | 1986-03-04 | The Scott & Fetzer Company | Hand vacuum with tilting intake |
US4704765A (en) * | 1984-06-11 | 1987-11-10 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Portable vacuum cleaner |
US4621390A (en) * | 1984-10-09 | 1986-11-11 | National Union Electric Corporation | Vacuum cleaner assembly |
US4748713A (en) * | 1984-10-09 | 1988-06-07 | National Union Electric | Vacuum cleaner assembly |
US4670701A (en) * | 1984-11-19 | 1987-06-02 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Rechargeable cordless vacuum cleaner apparatus |
US4665582A (en) * | 1985-02-22 | 1987-05-19 | National Union Electric Corp. | Lightweight battery powered suction broom |
US4635315A (en) * | 1985-07-26 | 1987-01-13 | Burton Kozak | Upright converter for portable vacuum |
USD300214S (en) * | 1985-12-19 | 1989-03-14 | North American Philips Corporation | Charger base for hand held battery operated vacuum cleaner |
US4787923A (en) * | 1986-08-27 | 1988-11-29 | Tennant Company | Apparatus for cleaning an air filter |
US4804481A (en) * | 1986-09-16 | 1989-02-14 | Boll & Kirch Filterbau Gmbh | Helical spring apparatus and process for detaching filter cake |
US4841594A (en) * | 1986-11-07 | 1989-06-27 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Cordless vacuum cleaner with power brush |
US4928346A (en) * | 1986-11-07 | 1990-05-29 | Black & Decker Inc. | Hand-held vacuum cleaner with power brush |
US4894882A (en) * | 1987-01-13 | 1990-01-23 | Sanyo Electric Company, Ltd. | Portable vacuum cleaner |
US4766638A (en) * | 1987-03-04 | 1988-08-30 | Bissell Inc. | Four-way vacuum cleaner |
USD307657S (en) * | 1987-07-09 | 1990-05-01 | Benny Li | Vacuum cleaner |
US5035024A (en) * | 1987-07-24 | 1991-07-30 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable wet/dry vacuum cleaner and recharging base |
US5005252A (en) * | 1987-07-24 | 1991-04-09 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable wet/dry vacuum cleaner and recharging base |
US4899418A (en) * | 1987-07-24 | 1990-02-13 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable wet/dry vacuum cleaner and recharging base |
US4831685A (en) * | 1987-11-27 | 1989-05-23 | The Hoover Company | Wet and dry vacuum cleaner |
US4831685B1 (en) * | 1987-11-27 | 1995-05-09 | Hoover Co | Wet and dry vacuum cleaner |
US4876763A (en) * | 1987-12-31 | 1989-10-31 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US4821366A (en) * | 1988-05-03 | 1989-04-18 | Cic Int'l. Corp. | Wet-dry vacuum cleaner |
US4920608A (en) * | 1988-08-08 | 1990-05-01 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable hand held vacuum cleaner |
US4993106A (en) * | 1988-08-08 | 1991-02-19 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable hand held vacuum cleaner |
US5025529A (en) * | 1988-08-08 | 1991-06-25 | Emerson Electric Co. | Portable hand held vacuum cleaner |
US4934020A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-06-19 | Black & Decker Inc. | Charging unit and vacuum cleaner |
US4942641A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-07-24 | Black & Decker Inc. | Accessory brush attachment |
US4947514A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-08-14 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Internal contact for a charging circuit |
US4967443A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-11-06 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Filter assembly for a vacuum cleaner |
US4920606A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-05-01 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Electrical power circuit for a vacuum cleaner |
US5065473A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1991-11-19 | Black & Decker Inc. | Filter assembly for a vacuum cleaner |
US5107567A (en) * | 1990-03-01 | 1992-04-28 | White Consolidated Industries, Inc. | Stick type vacuum cleaner with a dirt cup secured by a finger-operated latch |
US5020187A (en) * | 1990-03-19 | 1991-06-04 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Filter assembly for a vacuum cleaner |
USD352807S (en) * | 1992-06-24 | 1994-11-22 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner |
US5322534A (en) * | 1993-02-11 | 1994-06-21 | Kaiser David M | Self-cleaning upside-down air filter |
US5715566A (en) * | 1993-02-12 | 1998-02-10 | Bissell Inc. | Cleaning machine with a detachable cleaning module |
USD364013S (en) * | 1993-02-12 | 1995-11-07 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Battery fed vacuum cleaner |
US5309600A (en) * | 1993-02-12 | 1994-05-10 | Bissell Inc. | Vacuum cleaner with a detachable vacuum module |
US5342433A (en) * | 1993-05-10 | 1994-08-30 | Aercology, Inc. | Dust collector with bimodal shaker |
US5524321A (en) * | 1994-02-14 | 1996-06-11 | Bissell Inc. | Vacuum Cleaner with a detachable vacuum module |
US5561885A (en) * | 1995-01-13 | 1996-10-08 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Portable hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US5869947A (en) * | 1995-01-13 | 1999-02-09 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Rechargeable hand held vacuum cleaner with electrical connections circuit board with spring contacts |
US5603740A (en) * | 1995-03-27 | 1997-02-18 | Roy; Michel | Suction activated reciprocating system |
US6122796A (en) * | 1995-12-04 | 2000-09-26 | Electrolux Household Appliances Limited | Suction cleaning apparatus |
US5661885A (en) * | 1995-12-15 | 1997-09-02 | Donato; Carl J. | Valve-spring compressing tool |
US5733351A (en) * | 1996-08-12 | 1998-03-31 | Emerson Electric Co. | Two stage vacuum cleaner filter |
US6029313A (en) * | 1996-11-15 | 2000-02-29 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Vacuum cleaner with cantilevered drive system and removable belt access door |
US5966774A (en) * | 1996-11-30 | 1999-10-19 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US6094775A (en) * | 1997-03-05 | 2000-08-01 | Bsh Bosch Und Siemens Hausgeraete Gmbh | Multifunctional vacuum cleaning appliance |
US6189178B1 (en) * | 1997-12-05 | 2001-02-20 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Handheld extraction cleaner |
US6125498A (en) * | 1997-12-05 | 2000-10-03 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Handheld extraction cleaner |
US6108864A (en) * | 1998-01-09 | 2000-08-29 | White Consolidated Industries, Inc. | Vacuum cleaner having a reusable dirt cup |
US6311366B1 (en) * | 1998-11-18 | 2001-11-06 | White Consolidated Industries, Inc. | Battery power combination vacuum cleaner |
US6736873B2 (en) * | 1999-01-08 | 2004-05-18 | G.B.D. Corporation | Air flow passage for a vacuum cleaner |
US6146434A (en) * | 1999-02-24 | 2000-11-14 | The Hoover Company | Cyclonic dirt cup assembly |
US6546592B1 (en) * | 1999-07-17 | 2003-04-15 | Black & Decker Inc. | Dual filter vacuum cleaner apparatus |
US6766558B1 (en) * | 1999-07-19 | 2004-07-27 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Vacuum cleaner |
US6647587B1 (en) * | 1999-08-02 | 2003-11-18 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner using centrifugal force dust collection to prevent filter blinding |
US20050005931A1 (en) * | 2000-02-08 | 2005-01-13 | Doane Mark William | Masks and their manufacture |
US6625845B2 (en) * | 2000-03-24 | 2003-09-30 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Cyclonic vacuum cleaner |
US6434785B1 (en) * | 2000-04-19 | 2002-08-20 | Headwaters Research & Development, Inc | Dual filter wet/dry hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US20040216263A1 (en) * | 2000-05-05 | 2004-11-04 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Vacuum cleaner with detachable cyclonic vacuum module |
US20050125940A1 (en) * | 2000-05-05 | 2005-06-16 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Cyclonic dirt separation module |
US20050125939A1 (en) * | 2000-05-05 | 2005-06-16 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Cyclonic dirt separation module |
US6428589B1 (en) * | 2000-09-29 | 2002-08-06 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Two-stage particle separator for vacuum cleaners |
US6571421B1 (en) * | 2000-10-03 | 2003-06-03 | John Chun Kuen Sham | Vacuum cleaner and steamer apparatus |
US6948211B2 (en) * | 2001-01-12 | 2005-09-27 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Vacuum cleaner with noise suppression features |
US6839934B2 (en) * | 2001-07-25 | 2005-01-11 | Black & Decker Inc. | Multi-operational battery powered vacuum cleaner |
US6775882B2 (en) * | 2002-01-11 | 2004-08-17 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Stick vacuum with dirt cup |
US6857165B2 (en) * | 2002-02-27 | 2005-02-22 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Grill assembly for a cyclone-type dust collecting apparatus for a vacuum cleaner |
US6811584B2 (en) * | 2002-02-28 | 2004-11-02 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Cyclone dust collecting apparatus for a vacuum cleaner |
US6824580B2 (en) * | 2002-02-28 | 2004-11-30 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Cyclone dust collecting apparatus for a vacuum cleaner |
US20030159235A1 (en) * | 2002-02-28 | 2003-08-28 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Cyclone dust collecting apparatus for a vacuum cleaner |
US20030163887A1 (en) * | 2002-03-04 | 2003-09-04 | Twinbird Corporation | Cyclonic vacuum cleaner |
US20030208879A1 (en) * | 2002-05-11 | 2003-11-13 | Jang-Keun Oh | Cyclone-type dust collecting apparatus for vacuum cleaner |
US20030213091A1 (en) * | 2002-05-16 | 2003-11-20 | Jang-Keun Oh | Cyclone-type dust-collecting apparatus for vacuum cleaner |
US20040098957A1 (en) * | 2002-11-22 | 2004-05-27 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Dust collecting filter of vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner having the same |
US6964082B2 (en) * | 2002-12-23 | 2005-11-15 | Zweita International Co., Ltd. | Waste recycle vacuum cleaner for generating power |
US20040134022A1 (en) * | 2003-01-10 | 2004-07-15 | Royal Manufacturing Co. | Bagless stick type vacuum cleaner |
US20040177471A1 (en) * | 2003-03-13 | 2004-09-16 | Il-Du Jung | Filter assembly for cyclone type dust collecting apparatus of a vacuum cleaner |
US20040187253A1 (en) * | 2003-03-31 | 2004-09-30 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Filter cleaning device of cyclone vacuum cleaner |
US20040200029A1 (en) * | 2003-04-14 | 2004-10-14 | Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd. | Filter assembly for a cyclone-type dust collecting apparatus of vacuum cleaner |
US20050005390A1 (en) * | 2003-07-09 | 2005-01-13 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Filter assembly for vacuum cleaner |
US7386916B2 (en) * | 2003-08-05 | 2008-06-17 | Black & Decker Inc. | Self-cleaning vacuum cleaner and receptacle therefor |
US20050081321A1 (en) * | 2003-10-15 | 2005-04-21 | Milligan Michael A. | Hand-held cordless vacuum cleaner |
US20050183406A1 (en) * | 2004-02-10 | 2005-08-25 | Eric Coburn | Filter assembly for vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner incorporating such assembly |
US7404838B1 (en) * | 2004-07-09 | 2008-07-29 | Pathak Pinakin Y | Support for an air filter |
US20060156508A1 (en) * | 2005-01-14 | 2006-07-20 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Vacuum cleaner with cyclonic separating dirt cup and dirt cup door |
US7412749B2 (en) * | 2005-01-24 | 2008-08-19 | Euro-Pro Operating, Llc | Vacuum cleaner and floor dustpan system |
Cited By (357)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11666189B2 (en) | 2006-12-12 | 2023-06-06 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with a variable inlet flow area |
US11700984B2 (en) | 2006-12-12 | 2023-07-18 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Configuration of a surface cleaning apparatus |
US11793374B2 (en) * | 2006-12-12 | 2023-10-24 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with a variable inlet flow area |
US10765277B2 (en) | 2006-12-12 | 2020-09-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Configuration of a surface cleaning apparatus |
US10165912B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2019-01-01 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9192269B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2015-11-24 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10314447B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2019-06-11 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11627849B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2023-04-18 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11122943B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2021-09-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US12070176B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2024-08-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9545181B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2017-01-17 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11857142B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2024-01-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus having an energy storage member and a charger for an energy storage member |
US9119513B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2015-09-01 | G.B.D. Corp. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US12048409B2 (en) | 2007-03-11 | 2024-07-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9949601B2 (en) | 2007-08-29 | 2018-04-24 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatus |
US20100175217A1 (en) * | 2007-08-29 | 2010-07-15 | G.B.D. Corp. | Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatus with externally positioned dirt chamber |
US20180303298A1 (en) * | 2007-08-29 | 2018-10-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Configuration of a surface cleaning apparatus |
US10433686B2 (en) * | 2007-08-29 | 2019-10-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Configuration of a surface cleaning apparatus |
US10542856B2 (en) | 2007-08-29 | 2020-01-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Configuration of a surface cleaning apparatus |
US11751733B2 (en) | 2007-08-29 | 2023-09-12 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US20170119221A1 (en) * | 2007-08-29 | 2017-05-04 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Configuration of a surface cleaning apparatus |
US10561286B2 (en) * | 2007-08-29 | 2020-02-18 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Configuration of a surface cleaning apparatus |
US20090077764A1 (en) * | 2007-09-20 | 2009-03-26 | David Charles Hazen | Maneuverable Domestic Cleaning Appliance |
US9504364B2 (en) | 2008-03-14 | 2016-11-29 | Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited | Battery powered cordless cleaning system |
US10568481B2 (en) | 2008-03-14 | 2020-02-25 | Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited | Battery powered cordless cleaning system |
WO2010040523A1 (en) * | 2008-10-10 | 2010-04-15 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner air outlet |
US8572801B2 (en) | 2008-10-10 | 2013-11-05 | Ab Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner air outlet |
CN102245071A (en) * | 2008-10-10 | 2011-11-16 | 伊莱克斯公司 | Vacuum cleaner air outlet |
EP2337485A4 (en) * | 2008-10-16 | 2013-09-04 | Royal Appliance Mfg | Battery powered cordless cleaning system |
EP2337485B1 (en) | 2008-10-16 | 2016-09-21 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Battery powered cordless vacuum cleaner |
EP2337485A1 (en) * | 2008-10-16 | 2011-06-29 | Royal Appliance Mfg. Co. | Battery powered cordless cleaning system |
FR2940902A1 (en) * | 2009-01-15 | 2010-07-16 | Seb Sa | CYCLONIC SEPARATION DEVICE WITH ACCELERATION RAMP |
EP2208453A1 (en) * | 2009-01-15 | 2010-07-21 | Seb SA | Cyclonic separation device with acceleration ramp |
US8806707B2 (en) | 2009-01-15 | 2014-08-19 | Seb S.A. | Cyclonic separation device with acceleration ramp |
FR2940901A1 (en) * | 2009-01-15 | 2010-07-16 | Seb Sa | Filter dust separator for broom vacuum cleaner, has cyclone chamber arranged within vacuum cleaner, and cap arranged in grid filter, where grid filter includes openings to perform evacuation of air flow after removing dust and debris |
US20100175219A1 (en) * | 2009-01-15 | 2010-07-15 | Seb S.A. | Cyclonic Separation Device With Acceleration Ramp |
US20130139348A1 (en) * | 2009-02-03 | 2013-06-06 | Makita Corporation | Handy cleaners |
US8918957B2 (en) | 2009-02-20 | 2014-12-30 | Ab Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner nozzle |
EP2398368A1 (en) * | 2009-02-20 | 2011-12-28 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner nozzle |
EP2398368A4 (en) * | 2009-02-20 | 2013-07-24 | Electrolux Ab | Vacuum cleaner nozzle |
US20110314630A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2011-12-29 | G. B. D. Corp. | Hand vacuum cleaner with removable dirt chamber |
US20100229326A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US11253119B2 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2022-02-22 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner with a removable air treatment member |
US8561257B2 (en) | 2009-03-11 | 2013-10-22 | G.B.D. Corp. | Nozzle construction for a cleaning head |
US20100229324A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Configuration of a hand vacuum cleaner |
US10238250B2 (en) | 2009-03-11 | 2019-03-26 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US8607407B2 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2013-12-17 | G.B.D. Corp. | Configuration of a hand vacuum cleaner |
US9591952B2 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2017-03-14 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner with removable dirt chamber |
US20160150923A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2016-06-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner with a removable air treatment member |
US11969133B2 (en) | 2009-03-11 | 2024-04-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US10105023B2 (en) | 2009-03-11 | 2018-10-23 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US8950039B2 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2015-02-10 | G.B.D. Corp. | Configuration of a surface cleaning apparatus |
US20100229325A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US20100251506A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-10-07 | G.B.D. Corp. | Configuration of a surface cleaning apparatus |
WO2010102394A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Hand vacuum cleaner with removable dirt chamber |
US20100229322A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Nozzle construction for a cleaning head |
US20100229328A1 (en) * | 2009-03-11 | 2010-09-16 | G.B.D. Corp. | Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatus |
US8510907B2 (en) | 2009-03-11 | 2013-08-20 | G.B.D. Corp. | Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatus |
US11690489B2 (en) | 2009-03-13 | 2023-07-04 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with an external dirt chamber |
US11330944B2 (en) | 2009-03-13 | 2022-05-17 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US11529031B2 (en) | 2009-03-13 | 2022-12-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10080473B2 (en) | 2009-03-13 | 2018-09-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US10548442B2 (en) * | 2009-03-13 | 2020-02-04 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9826868B2 (en) | 2009-03-13 | 2017-11-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US20220125257A1 (en) * | 2009-03-13 | 2022-04-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11950751B2 (en) | 2009-03-13 | 2024-04-09 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with an external dirt chamber |
US11622659B2 (en) | 2009-03-13 | 2023-04-11 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US20160143495A1 (en) * | 2009-03-13 | 2016-05-26 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
WO2010136886A1 (en) * | 2009-05-28 | 2010-12-02 | De' Longhi Appliances Srl Con Unico Socio | Suction apparatus for domestic cleaning |
ITUD20090107A1 (en) * | 2009-05-28 | 2010-11-29 | Longhi Appliances S R L Con So Cio Unico De | INTAKE EQUIPMENT FOR HOME CLEANING |
EP4275571A3 (en) * | 2009-08-27 | 2024-03-13 | i-mop GmbH | Handheld floor treatment device |
US8037571B2 (en) | 2009-09-01 | 2011-10-18 | Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner accessory tool having a removable brush |
CN101999863A (en) * | 2009-09-01 | 2011-04-06 | 创科地板护理技术有限公司 | Vacuum cleaner accessory tool having a removable brush |
US20110047746A1 (en) * | 2009-09-01 | 2011-03-03 | Mark Butts | Vacuum cleaner accessory tool having a removable brush |
US9706889B1 (en) * | 2010-02-26 | 2017-07-18 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Dirt cup latch mechanism for vacuum cleaner |
US8640301B1 (en) * | 2010-02-26 | 2014-02-04 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Dirt cup latch mechanism for vacuum cleaner |
WO2011110827A1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2011-09-15 | Dyson Technology Limited | A vacuum cleaner arrangement |
US20110219581A1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2011-09-15 | Electrolux Home Care Products, Inc. | Vacuum Cleaner with Rotating Handle |
US8448295B2 (en) | 2010-03-12 | 2013-05-28 | Electrolux Home Care Products, Inc. | Vacuum cleaner with rotating handle |
US10376112B2 (en) | 2010-03-12 | 2019-08-13 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US20110219571A1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2011-09-15 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner arrangement |
US20110219566A1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2011-09-15 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner arrangement |
WO2011110826A1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2011-09-15 | Dyson Technology Limited | A vacuum cleaner arrangement |
US9155431B2 (en) | 2010-03-12 | 2015-10-13 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner arrangement |
US8656552B2 (en) | 2010-03-12 | 2014-02-25 | Electrolux Home Care Products, Inc. | Vacuum cleaner with movable wheel |
US10080472B2 (en) | 2010-03-12 | 2018-09-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carriable surface cleaning apparatus |
US20110219569A1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2011-09-15 | Electrolux Home Care Products, Inc. | Vacuum Cleaner with Movable Wheel |
US20110289720A1 (en) * | 2010-05-31 | 2011-12-01 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Cyclone dust collecting apparatus and hand-held cleaner having the same |
US11484164B2 (en) | 2010-05-31 | 2022-11-01 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Cyclone dust collecting apparatus and handheld cleaner having the same |
US10517449B2 (en) * | 2010-05-31 | 2019-12-31 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Cyclone dust collecting apparatus and hand-held cleaner having the same |
US8535403B2 (en) | 2010-09-16 | 2013-09-17 | Cummins Filtration Ip Inc. | Filter assembly with mounting |
US9387424B2 (en) | 2010-09-16 | 2016-07-12 | Cummins Filtration Ip Inc. | V-shaped filter and fixture |
CN103052436A (en) * | 2010-09-16 | 2013-04-17 | 康明斯过滤Ip公司 | Filter assembly with mounting |
WO2012037302A1 (en) * | 2010-09-16 | 2012-03-22 | Cummins Filtration Ip Inc. | Filter assembly with mounting |
US20120222258A1 (en) * | 2011-03-04 | 2012-09-06 | G.B.D. Corp. | Dirt separation apparatus for a surface cleaning apparatus |
US10827890B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2020-11-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10602894B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2020-03-31 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9009912B2 (en) * | 2011-03-04 | 2015-04-21 | G.B.D. Corp. | Dirt separation apparatus for a surface cleaning apparatus |
US9629511B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2017-04-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US20120222259A1 (en) * | 2011-03-04 | 2012-09-06 | G.B.D. Corp. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable handle assembly |
US9962052B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2018-05-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9232881B2 (en) * | 2011-03-04 | 2016-01-12 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable handle assembly |
US10624513B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2020-04-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11612283B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2023-03-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10244911B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2019-04-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9693666B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2017-07-04 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Compact surface cleaning apparatus |
US9352255B2 (en) * | 2011-08-31 | 2016-05-31 | Ant Corporation | Suction apparatus for fabric filter and filtering device for liquid filtration using the same |
US20130048553A1 (en) * | 2011-08-31 | 2013-02-28 | Younglong KUK | Suction apparatus for fabric filter and filtering device for liquid filtration using the same |
AU2012203005B2 (en) * | 2011-10-05 | 2017-02-02 | Shop Vac Corporation | Vacuum Cleaner with Removable Battery Pack |
EP2578124A3 (en) * | 2011-10-05 | 2017-12-27 | Shop Vac Corporation | Vacuum cleaner with removable battery pack |
US8590103B2 (en) | 2011-10-05 | 2013-11-26 | Shop Vac Corporation | Vacuum cleaner with removable battery pack |
EP2581010A1 (en) * | 2011-10-12 | 2013-04-17 | Black & Decker Inc. | A battery - powered vacuum cleaner |
DE102012100042A1 (en) * | 2012-01-04 | 2013-07-04 | Miele & Cie. Kg | Hand or table vacuum cleaner i.e. battery-operated table vacuum cleaner, has unlocking device for locking and unlocking container at housing and comprising bracket that is pivotable between positions for locking and unlocking container |
US8997309B2 (en) | 2012-03-02 | 2015-04-07 | G.B.D. Corp. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9622630B2 (en) | 2012-03-19 | 2017-04-18 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Upright vacuum cleaner having a support |
DE102012211249A1 (en) * | 2012-06-29 | 2014-01-02 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Staubabscheideeinheit for a vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner |
WO2014001489A1 (en) | 2012-06-29 | 2014-01-03 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Combination of compact vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner housing, and compact vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner housing |
EP2679133A2 (en) | 2012-06-29 | 2014-01-01 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Dust filter system for a vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner |
DE102012211247B4 (en) * | 2012-06-29 | 2020-08-27 | BSH Hausgeräte GmbH | Combination of a small vacuum cleaner and a vacuum cleaner housing as well as a small vacuum cleaner and a vacuum cleaner housing |
DE102012211247A1 (en) * | 2012-06-29 | 2014-01-02 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Combination of a small vacuum cleaner and a vacuum cleaner housing as well as small vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner housing |
US8915982B2 (en) * | 2012-08-27 | 2014-12-23 | Bsh Bosch Und Siemens Hausgeraete Gmbh | Extraction apparatus with grease collection channel |
US20140053518A1 (en) * | 2012-08-27 | 2014-02-27 | Bsh Bosch Und Siemens Hausgerate Gmbh | Extraction apparatus with grease collection channel |
US9027198B2 (en) | 2013-02-27 | 2015-05-12 | G.B.D. Corp. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9433332B2 (en) | 2013-02-27 | 2016-09-06 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9591958B2 (en) | 2013-02-27 | 2017-03-14 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9320401B2 (en) | 2013-02-27 | 2016-04-26 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10264934B2 (en) | 2013-02-27 | 2019-04-23 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10674884B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2020-06-09 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9451855B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-09-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9295995B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-03-29 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus |
US9326652B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-05-03 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10729294B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2020-08-04 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9820621B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2017-11-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9238235B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-01-19 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus |
US9227201B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-01-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus |
US20140237764A1 (en) * | 2013-02-28 | 2014-08-28 | G.B.D. Corp. | Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus |
US11857140B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2024-01-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus |
US9227151B2 (en) | 2013-02-28 | 2016-01-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus |
US9427126B2 (en) | 2013-03-01 | 2016-08-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9204773B2 (en) | 2013-03-01 | 2015-12-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9161669B2 (en) | 2013-03-01 | 2015-10-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
JP2016520376A (en) * | 2013-05-02 | 2016-07-14 | アクティエボラゲット エレクトロラックス | Cleaning the vacuum cleaner nozzle |
USD773130S1 (en) * | 2013-05-20 | 2016-11-29 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner |
US8943647B1 (en) | 2013-08-09 | 2015-02-03 | Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner including a removable handle assembly |
US11229332B2 (en) * | 2013-09-05 | 2022-01-25 | Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US20150059118A1 (en) * | 2013-09-05 | 2015-03-05 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US10105022B2 (en) * | 2013-09-05 | 2018-10-23 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
JP2015167731A (en) * | 2014-03-07 | 2015-09-28 | 三菱電機株式会社 | vacuum cleaner |
JP2015173673A (en) * | 2014-03-12 | 2015-10-05 | 日立アプライアンス株式会社 | vacuum cleaner |
JP2015173674A (en) * | 2014-03-12 | 2015-10-05 | 日立アプライアンス株式会社 | vacuum cleaner |
US9451853B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2016-09-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9565981B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2017-02-14 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9314139B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2016-04-19 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10405710B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2019-09-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9661964B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2017-05-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10441121B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2019-10-15 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
CN106998973A (en) * | 2014-07-18 | 2017-08-01 | 奥马克罗知识产权有限公司 | Portable surface cleaning device |
US9420925B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2016-08-23 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
US20230389761A1 (en) * | 2014-07-18 | 2023-12-07 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9585530B2 (en) | 2014-07-18 | 2017-03-07 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Portable surface cleaning apparatus |
JP2016039858A (en) * | 2014-08-12 | 2016-03-24 | 株式会社マキタ | Handy cleaner |
US10413142B2 (en) * | 2014-09-26 | 2019-09-17 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Vacuum cleaner |
US20160088987A1 (en) * | 2014-09-26 | 2016-03-31 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Vacuum cleaner |
US9752356B2 (en) * | 2014-10-01 | 2017-09-05 | Piolax, Inc. | Lock release apparatus and lock apparatus having the same |
US20160097225A1 (en) * | 2014-10-01 | 2016-04-07 | Piolax, Inc. | Lock release apparatus and lock apparatus having the same |
US9861240B2 (en) | 2014-10-16 | 2018-01-09 | Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. | Battery removal for a vacuum cleaner |
US9439548B2 (en) | 2014-10-16 | 2016-09-13 | Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. | Battery removal for a vacuum cleaner |
US10213074B2 (en) | 2014-10-16 | 2019-02-26 | Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. | Battery removal for a vacuum cleaner |
US20160113459A1 (en) * | 2014-10-27 | 2016-04-28 | Conet Industries, Inc. | Dust-container assembly of vacuum cleaner |
US9414725B2 (en) | 2014-12-05 | 2016-08-16 | Panasonic Corporation Of North America | Upright vacuum cleaner with two auxiliary operating modes |
US11445871B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2022-09-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10624510B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2020-04-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11759066B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2023-09-19 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10219662B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2019-03-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10219660B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2019-03-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11889969B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2024-02-06 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11896185B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2024-02-13 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US11903546B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2024-02-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10251519B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2019-04-09 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11992167B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2024-05-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11903548B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2024-02-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carriable surface cleaning apparatus |
US11903547B1 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2024-02-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11910983B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2024-02-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10219661B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2019-03-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9888817B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2018-02-13 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11389038B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2022-07-19 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11986145B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2024-05-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11445873B2 (en) * | 2014-12-17 | 2022-09-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US11918168B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2024-03-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10117550B1 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2018-11-06 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11445872B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2022-09-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11452409B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2022-09-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10362911B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2019-07-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10478030B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2019-11-19 | Omachron Intellectul Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11534041B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2022-12-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10149585B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2018-12-11 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11950745B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2024-04-09 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10136778B2 (en) | 2014-12-17 | 2018-11-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
JP2016131792A (en) * | 2015-01-21 | 2016-07-25 | 株式会社東芝 | Electric cleaner |
JP2016137165A (en) * | 2015-01-28 | 2016-08-04 | 日立アプライアンス株式会社 | Charging stand and vacuum cleaner |
DE102015104896A1 (en) * | 2015-03-30 | 2016-10-06 | Vorwerk & Co. Interholding Gmbh | Filter for a vacuum cleaner |
US20180303303A1 (en) * | 2015-06-24 | 2018-10-25 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner system |
JP2017018497A (en) * | 2015-07-14 | 2017-01-26 | 東芝ライフスタイル株式会社 | Vacuum cleaner device |
US10870074B2 (en) | 2015-07-15 | 2020-12-22 | Baldwin Filters, Inc. | Multi-component holding assembly for multi-panel air filter |
CN106419736A (en) * | 2015-08-04 | 2017-02-22 | 中弘智能高科技(深圳)有限公司 | Mite-eliminating dust collector |
US10433687B2 (en) | 2015-09-17 | 2019-10-08 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner |
US10405708B2 (en) | 2015-09-17 | 2019-09-10 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner |
US10470624B2 (en) | 2015-09-17 | 2019-11-12 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner |
US12035872B2 (en) | 2015-11-10 | 2024-07-16 | Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. | Handheld vacuum cleaner |
US11357370B2 (en) * | 2015-11-10 | 2022-06-14 | Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. | Handheld vacuum cleaner |
US11432690B2 (en) | 2015-11-10 | 2022-09-06 | Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. | Handheld vacuum cleaner |
US11229334B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2022-01-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9980616B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2018-05-29 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9962047B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2018-05-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US9962048B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2018-05-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10813510B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2020-10-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10159391B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2018-12-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10791889B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2020-10-06 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10165915B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2019-01-01 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10327610B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2019-06-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10238249B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2019-03-26 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US11826007B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2023-11-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10244906B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2019-04-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US11160425B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2021-11-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10165913B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2019-01-01 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10624512B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2020-04-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10085604B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2018-10-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10426302B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2019-10-01 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US12075962B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2024-09-03 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10165914B2 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2019-01-01 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand carryable surface cleaning apparatus |
US10182690B2 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2019-01-22 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Cleaner |
US20170202414A1 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2017-07-20 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Cleaner |
US20170202413A1 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2017-07-20 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Cleaner |
US10624509B2 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2020-04-21 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US10575688B2 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2020-03-03 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US10201259B2 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2019-02-12 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Cleaner |
EP3238588A4 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2018-05-30 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US10548441B2 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2020-02-04 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US20180310786A1 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2018-11-01 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Hand-held vacuum cleaner |
US20180333019A1 (en) * | 2016-01-20 | 2018-11-22 | Jiangsu Midea Cleaning Appliances Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner |
US10390670B2 (en) | 2016-01-22 | 2019-08-27 | Dyson Technology Limited | Separating apparatus and vacuum cleaner |
US10299648B2 (en) | 2016-01-22 | 2019-05-28 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner |
US10143345B2 (en) | 2016-01-22 | 2018-12-04 | Dyson Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaning apparatus |
US11241129B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2022-02-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10016104B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2018-07-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11202539B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2021-12-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11779174B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2023-10-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11896186B1 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2024-02-13 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10258208B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2019-04-16 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11918170B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2024-03-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US9986880B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2018-06-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10016105B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2018-07-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10568477B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2020-02-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10561291B2 (en) * | 2016-05-09 | 2020-02-18 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Cleaner holder |
US20170319038A1 (en) * | 2016-05-09 | 2017-11-09 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Cleaner holder |
JP2016195917A (en) * | 2016-08-30 | 2016-11-24 | シャープ株式会社 | Suction port body and vacuum cleaner including the same |
WO2018065069A1 (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2018-04-12 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Low noise stick vaccum cleaner |
JP2019528829A (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2019-10-17 | アクチエボラゲット エレクトロルックス | Low noise stick vacuum cleaner |
WO2018065068A1 (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2018-04-12 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Stick vacuum cleaner with improved filter |
US11350807B2 (en) | 2016-10-07 | 2022-06-07 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Low noise stick vacuum cleaner |
US11337570B2 (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2022-05-24 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Stick vacuum cleaner with improved filter |
CN109843132A (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2019-06-04 | 伊莱克斯公司 | Low noise stick type vacuum cleaner |
CN109803568A (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2019-05-24 | 伊莱克斯公司 | The improved stick type vacuum cleaner of filter |
US20180132687A1 (en) * | 2016-11-16 | 2018-05-17 | Black & Decker Inc. | Cleaning device |
US10531775B2 (en) * | 2016-11-16 | 2020-01-14 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Cleaning device |
US10258210B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2019-04-16 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US10016106B1 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2018-07-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US10405709B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2019-09-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US11285495B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2022-03-29 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US10827891B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2020-11-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US10299643B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2019-05-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US11331680B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2022-05-17 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10271704B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2019-04-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multistage cyclone and surface cleaning apparatus having same |
US11938491B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2024-03-26 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11673148B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2023-06-13 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US12023690B2 (en) | 2016-12-27 | 2024-07-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US10214349B2 (en) | 2016-12-28 | 2019-02-26 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning apparatus |
US10322873B2 (en) | 2016-12-28 | 2019-06-18 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning apparatus |
US10244910B2 (en) | 2016-12-28 | 2019-04-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning apparatus |
US10244909B2 (en) | 2016-12-28 | 2019-04-02 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning apparatus |
US10464746B2 (en) | 2016-12-28 | 2019-11-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Dust and allergen control for surface cleaning apparatus |
US10369508B2 (en) | 2017-02-23 | 2019-08-06 | Baldwin Filters, Inc. | Filter with shield features |
WO2018193239A1 (en) * | 2017-04-20 | 2018-10-25 | Tti (Macao Commercial Offshore) Limited | Suction cleaner |
WO2018193268A1 (en) * | 2017-04-21 | 2018-10-25 | Grey Technology Limited | Bagged vacuum cleaner |
US11297988B2 (en) | 2017-04-21 | 2022-04-12 | Grey Technology Limited | Bagged vacuum cleaner |
WO2018234757A1 (en) * | 2017-06-19 | 2018-12-27 | Tti (Macao Commercial Offshore) Limited | A surface cleaning apparatus |
CN107198492A (en) * | 2017-06-26 | 2017-09-26 | 美的集团股份有限公司 | Guiding subassembly and dust catcher |
US20190008342A1 (en) * | 2017-07-06 | 2019-01-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10750913B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2020-08-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US20190008348A1 (en) * | 2017-07-06 | 2019-01-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US11737621B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2023-08-29 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10765278B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2020-09-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US20190008338A1 (en) * | 2017-07-06 | 2019-01-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10722086B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2020-07-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10842330B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2020-11-24 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US11910984B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2024-02-27 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US11445875B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2022-09-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10702113B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2020-07-07 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10506904B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2019-12-17 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10631693B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2020-04-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US10537216B2 (en) | 2017-07-06 | 2020-01-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Handheld surface cleaning apparatus |
US12082759B2 (en) | 2017-09-15 | 2024-09-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US12029375B2 (en) | 2017-09-22 | 2024-07-09 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Hand-held surface cleaning device |
DE102017220700A1 (en) * | 2017-11-20 | 2019-05-23 | BSH Hausgeräte GmbH | Centrifugal separator with reduced height |
CN111386063A (en) * | 2017-12-14 | 2020-07-07 | 伊莱克斯公司 | Vacuum cleaner assembly |
DE102017222735A1 (en) * | 2017-12-14 | 2019-06-19 | Vorwerk & Co. Interholding Gmbh | Vacuum cleaner with battery |
WO2019166763A1 (en) * | 2018-03-02 | 2019-09-06 | Dyson Technology Limited | A dock for a handheld product |
US11547254B2 (en) * | 2018-03-14 | 2023-01-10 | Infinite Appliances Ltd | Vacuum cleaning apparatus |
US10959585B2 (en) | 2018-03-16 | 2021-03-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US11439285B2 (en) | 2018-03-16 | 2022-09-13 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US10952583B2 (en) | 2018-03-16 | 2021-03-23 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
US10959588B2 (en) | 2018-03-16 | 2021-03-30 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Hand vacuum cleaner |
JP2019162285A (en) * | 2018-03-20 | 2019-09-26 | 三菱電機株式会社 | Cleaner system |
US11375861B2 (en) | 2018-04-20 | 2022-07-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US20230172407A1 (en) * | 2018-04-20 | 2023-06-08 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US20220007904A1 (en) * | 2018-04-20 | 2022-01-13 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11013378B2 (en) | 2018-04-20 | 2021-05-25 | Omachon Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11930987B2 (en) * | 2018-04-20 | 2024-03-19 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US20190328190A1 (en) * | 2018-04-25 | 2019-10-31 | Tennant Company | High performance handheld liquid suction device |
US11596282B2 (en) * | 2018-06-19 | 2023-03-07 | Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation | Vacuum cleaner |
AU2021201370B2 (en) * | 2018-06-22 | 2022-03-10 | Bissell Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus and tray |
US11147426B2 (en) | 2018-06-22 | 2021-10-19 | Bissell Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus and tray |
US11096544B2 (en) | 2018-06-22 | 2021-08-24 | Bissell Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus and tray |
US11192122B2 (en) | 2018-08-13 | 2021-12-07 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclonic air treatment member and surface cleaning apparatus including the same |
US11013384B2 (en) | 2018-08-13 | 2021-05-25 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclonic air treatment member and surface cleaning apparatus including the same |
US11950750B2 (en) | 2018-08-13 | 2024-04-09 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclonic air treatment member and surface cleaning apparatus including the same |
US11006799B2 (en) | 2018-08-13 | 2021-05-18 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Cyclonic air treatment member and surface cleaning apparatus including the same |
WO2020108729A1 (en) * | 2018-11-26 | 2020-06-04 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Vacuum cleaner with removable container |
US11819178B2 (en) * | 2018-11-26 | 2023-11-21 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11745190B2 (en) | 2019-01-23 | 2023-09-05 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
US11992848B2 (en) | 2019-01-23 | 2024-05-28 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus |
USD937513S1 (en) | 2019-09-16 | 2021-11-30 | Techtronic Cordless Gp | Floor cleaner |
US11793375B2 (en) * | 2019-10-22 | 2023-10-24 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Conversion member and electric cleaner including the same |
US20210121031A1 (en) * | 2019-10-24 | 2021-04-29 | Makita Corporation | Dust extractor |
US11672396B2 (en) * | 2019-10-24 | 2023-06-13 | Makita Corporation | Dust extractor |
US11751740B2 (en) | 2019-11-18 | 2023-09-12 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multi-inlet cyclone |
US11246462B2 (en) | 2019-11-18 | 2022-02-15 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Multi-inlet cyclone |
US11690488B2 (en) * | 2020-01-03 | 2023-07-04 | Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited | Vacuum cleaner assembly |
US20210204769A1 (en) * | 2020-01-03 | 2021-07-08 | Techtronic Cordless Gp | Vacuum cleaner assembly |
US11653799B2 (en) | 2020-01-03 | 2023-05-23 | Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited | Adapter for vacuum cleaner assembly |
WO2021138179A1 (en) * | 2020-01-03 | 2021-07-08 | Techtronic Cordless Gp | Vacuum cleaner assembly |
US11730327B2 (en) | 2020-03-18 | 2023-08-22 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable air treatment assembly |
US11666193B2 (en) | 2020-03-18 | 2023-06-06 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable air treatment member assembly |
US11445878B2 (en) | 2020-03-18 | 2022-09-20 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable air treatment member assembly |
US11771280B2 (en) | 2020-03-18 | 2023-10-03 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable air treatment member assembly |
US11766156B2 (en) | 2020-03-18 | 2023-09-26 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Surface cleaning apparatus with removable air treatment member assembly |
IT202000029702A1 (en) * | 2020-12-03 | 2022-06-03 | Tech Systems By Moro Srl | DEVICE FOR JOINING AND TRANSMISSION OF THE ROTARY MOTION BETWEEN THE UPPER GUIDE BODY AND THE LOWER CLEANING BODY OF AN APPARATUS FOR CLEANING AND/OR TREATING WALKABLE SURFACES |
JP7440439B2 (en) | 2021-02-09 | 2024-02-28 | 日立グローバルライフソリューションズ株式会社 | vacuum cleaner |
WO2022172484A1 (en) * | 2021-02-09 | 2022-08-18 | 日立グローバルライフソリューションズ株式会社 | Electric vacuum cleaner |
JP2022122033A (en) * | 2021-02-09 | 2022-08-22 | 日立グローバルライフソリューションズ株式会社 | Electric vacuum cleaner |
WO2022176584A1 (en) * | 2021-02-18 | 2022-08-25 | アイリスオーヤマ株式会社 | Electric vacuum cleaner |
JP7403494B2 (en) | 2021-03-26 | 2023-12-22 | 日立グローバルライフソリューションズ株式会社 | vacuum cleaner |
JP2022150130A (en) * | 2021-03-26 | 2022-10-07 | 日立グローバルライフソリューションズ株式会社 | Vacuum cleaner and storage battery unit |
USD1013989S1 (en) * | 2021-04-01 | 2024-02-06 | Cixi Mongsun Electric Appliance Co., Ltd | Vacuum cleaner |
US11779178B2 (en) | 2021-08-05 | 2023-10-10 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Household appliance having an improved cyclone and a cyclone for same |
US12075966B2 (en) | 2021-08-05 | 2024-09-03 | Omachron Intellectual Property Inc. | Household appliance having an improved cyclone and a cyclone for same |
US12044484B2 (en) | 2022-03-31 | 2024-07-23 | Deere & Company | Heat tube for heat exchanger |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US8302251B2 (en) | 2012-11-06 |
US20100242209A1 (en) | 2010-09-30 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US8302251B2 (en) | Handheld vacuum unit retention features | |
US7377010B2 (en) | Dirt collecting system for a floor care appliance | |
USRE47623E1 (en) | Vacuum cleaner handle lock and valve control | |
EP3003109B1 (en) | Hand-held vacuum cleaner | |
CA2553412C (en) | Hand-holdable vacuum cleaners | |
US20020162188A1 (en) | Vacuum cleaner | |
US20090000054A1 (en) | Vacuum Cleaner Cleanout System | |
US20060156509A1 (en) | Vacuum cleaner with collapsible handle | |
US7418764B2 (en) | Mode control arrangement for a floor care appliance | |
WO2007008770A2 (en) | Vacuum cleaner upright assembly | |
KR20050103343A (en) | A dust collector for vacuum cleaner | |
EP3030125A1 (en) | Vacuum cleaner including a removable handle assembly | |
KR100941426B1 (en) | Dust and dirt collecting unit for vacuum cleaner | |
KR20060107625A (en) | A dust collector for vacuum clearner | |
KR101199662B1 (en) | Dust and dirt collecting unit for vacuum cleaner | |
KR101143783B1 (en) | Dust and dirt collecting unit for vacuum cleaner | |
KR100932761B1 (en) | Dust collection assembly of vacuum cleaner | |
KR20050106674A (en) | A dust collector for vacuum cleaner | |
KR20050036350A (en) | Exhausting filter mounting structure for vacuum cleaner | |
KR20050099201A (en) | A dust collector for vacuum clearner | |
KR20050099203A (en) | A dust collector for vacuum clearner | |
GB2461196A (en) | Vacuum cleaner with power cord winding arrangement | |
KR20060107626A (en) | A dust collector for vacuum clearner |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: AB ELECTROLUX,SWEDEN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:BESKOW, JONAS;MIEFALK, HAKAN;DANESTAD, ULRIK;SIGNING DATES FROM 20100407 TO 20100409;REEL/FRAME:024514/0691 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |