US20240172907A1 - Floor cleaner - Google Patents
Floor cleaner Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20240172907A1 US20240172907A1 US18/436,220 US202418436220A US2024172907A1 US 20240172907 A1 US20240172907 A1 US 20240172907A1 US 202418436220 A US202418436220 A US 202418436220A US 2024172907 A1 US2024172907 A1 US 2024172907A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- agitator body
- vane
- cleaning head
- brushroll
- agitator
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 69
- 210000004209 hair Anatomy 0.000 claims abstract description 39
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 13
- 239000013536 elastomeric material Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000011796 hollow space material Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 abstract description 6
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 8
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 229920001410 Microfiber Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000003658 microfiber Substances 0.000 description 3
- 125000000391 vinyl group Chemical group [H]C([*])=C([H])[H] 0.000 description 3
- 229920002554 vinyl polymer Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 238000013019 agitation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000002401 inhibitory effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004745 nonwoven fabric Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002759 woven fabric Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007123 defense Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000806 elastomer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 1
- -1 felt Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000005764 inhibitory process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001788 irregular Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002725 thermoplastic elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 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
- 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
- A47L9/0461—Dust-loosening tools, e.g. agitators, brushes
- A47L9/0466—Rotating tools
- A47L9/0477—Rolls
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B13/00—Brushes with driven brush bodies or carriers
- A46B13/001—Cylindrical or annular brush bodies
- A46B13/005—Cylindrical or annular brush bodies made up of a series of longitudinal strips or segments
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B13/00—Brushes with driven brush bodies or carriers
- A46B13/001—Cylindrical or annular brush bodies
- A46B13/006—Cylindrical or annular brush bodies formed by winding a strip tuft in a helix about the body
-
- 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
- A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
- A47L11/4036—Parts or details of the surface treating tools
- A47L11/4041—Roll shaped surface treating tools
-
- 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
- A47L5/24—Hand-supported suction cleaners
- A47L5/26—Hand-supported suction cleaners with driven dust-loosening tools
-
- 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
- A47L5/30—Suction cleaners with handles and nozzles fixed on the casings, e.g. wheeled suction cleaners with steering handle with driven dust-loosening tools, e.g. rotating brushes
-
- 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
- A47L9/0455—Bearing means therefor
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B2200/00—Brushes characterized by their functions, uses or applications
- A46B2200/30—Brushes for cleaning or polishing
Definitions
- the present invention relates to cleaning heads for floor cleaners.
- a cleaning head for a floor cleaner comprising a housing, a brushroll chamber, a brushroll assembly.
- the brushroll assembly is mounted in the brushroll chamber.
- the brushroll assembly includes an agitator body having a first end and a second end.
- a cleaning member is coupled to the agitator body between the first end and the second end.
- the cleaning member includes a vane extending outwardly from the agitator body and a plurality of cylindrical portions extending outwardly from the agitator body spaced along the vane. The cylindrical portions are integral with the vane.
- a cleaning head for a floor cleaner comprising a housing, a brushroll chamber, a brushroll assembly.
- the brushroll assembly is mounted in the brushroll chamber.
- the brushroll assembly includes an agitator body having a first end and a second end.
- a cleaning member is coupled to the agitator body extending longitudinally between the first end and the second end.
- the cleaning member includes a plurality of cylindrical portions extending outwardly from the agitator body a first height. The plurality of cylindrical portions are spaced along the agitator body, each cylindrical portion connected to the adjacent spaced cylindrical portion by a webbed portion. The webbed portion extends outwardly from the agitator body a second height.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a floor cleaner according to one embodiment.
- FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the floor cleaner of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a view of a brushroll assembly of the floor cleaner of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 a is an exploded view of the brushroll assembly of the floor cleaner of FIG. 1 showing two deformable members in a removed position.
- FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the brushroll assembly of the floor cleaner of FIG. 1 showing a bearing and an end cap in a removed position.
- FIG. 4 a is an exploded view of an alternate brushroll assembly of the floor cleaner of FIG. 1 showing an alternate deformable member in a removed position.
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view through the housing and the brushroll assembly of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 is an alternate cross-sectional view through the housing and the brushroll assembly of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view through the brushroll assembly of FIG. 3 showing an end cap and a bearing of the brushroll assembly.
- FIG. 7 a is a detail view of the cross-section of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternate brushroll embodiment of the floor cleaner of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternate brushroll embodiment.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternate brushroll embodiment.
- FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternate brushroll embodiment.
- FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternate brushroll embodiment.
- FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of the brushroll of FIG. 11 , shown without bristles.
- FIG. 13 a is a schematic perspective view of the brushroll of FIG. 11 , shown with bristles.
- FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an alternate brushroll embodiment.
- FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the alternate brushroll shown in FIG. 14 .
- FIG. 16 is a detail view of the brushroll of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 17 a is a detail view of the brushroll of FIG. 10 , according to one embodiment.
- FIG. 17 b is a detail view of the brushroll of FIG. 10 , according to an alternative embodiment.
- FIG. 17 c is a detail view of the brushroll of FIG. 10 , according to an alternative embodiment.
- FIG. 18 a is a schematic detail view of the brushroll of FIG. 10 , according to an alternative embodiment.
- FIG. 18 b is a schematic detail view of the brushroll of FIG. 10 , according to an alternative embodiment.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a floor cleaner 10 .
- the floor cleaner 10 includes a cleaning head 12 having a housing 14 , a brushroll chamber 16 , and a longitudinal brushroll assembly 20 .
- the brushroll assembly 20 is rotatably mounted within the housing 14 and configured to rotate about a bearing 28 located on at least one end thereof.
- the brushroll assembly 20 includes a deformable member 38 adjacent the bearing 28 configured to inhibit ingress of debris, hair, threads, and the like from entering the bearing 28 .
- the deformable member 38 is an annular felt material.
- the brushroll chamber 16 includes an opening 18 in a bottom side of the housing 14 .
- the brushroll assembly 20 is operably longitudinally mounted in the brushroll chamber 16 and extends through the opening 18 to contact a surface 50 to be cleaned.
- the brushroll assembly 20 includes an agitator body 22 that rotates relative to the housing 14 about a longitudinal axis 100 .
- the longitudinal axis 100 extends through a first end 24 and a second send 26 of the agitator body 22 .
- the bearing 28 facilitates rotation of the agitator body 22 about the longitudinal axis 100 .
- the brushroll assembly 20 further includes an end cap 30 on one or both ends of the brushroll body 22 rotationally supporting and positioning the brushroll in the brushroll chamber 16 .
- the cleaning head 12 may include an agitator drive mechanism in the housing 14 .
- the brushroll body 22 includes one end cap 30 positioning the first end 24 of the brushroll in the brushroll chamber 16
- the drive mechanism includes a drive element 54 operably engaging the second end 26 of the agitator body 22 , such as by a coaxial spline or gear drive engaging a splined recess 55 on the second end.
- the brushroll assembly 20 includes the end cap 30 on the first end 24 and on the second end 26 and the drive element 54 operably engages the brushroll body, such as by a gear or belt.
- the drive mechanism drives rotation of the agitator body 22 about the bearing 28 forming the longitudinal axis 100 shown in FIG. 3 .
- the bearing 28 may be operably mounted on the end cap 30 .
- the agitator body 22 is rotatable to agitate, wipe, and clean the surface 50 to be being cleaned.
- the agitator body 22 includes a plurality of agitating members 32 .
- the agitating members 32 include a plurality of vanes 34 and at least one row of bristles 36 .
- the agitating members 32 extend between the first end 24 and the second end 26 and are spaced around the circumferential surface 47 of the agitator body 22 , extending outwardly from the agitator body 22 .
- the bristles 36 are shown schematically. Any suitable material may be used for the bristles, such as polymer bristles, fiber or rubber bristles, cloth strips or pads, beater bars, wipers, bristle strips, microfiber, and the like.
- the agitator body 22 extends along the longitudinal axis 100 , with the end cap 30 received on the agitator body 22 to surround the bearing 28 , and the deformable member 38 positioned around a circumferential surface of the agitator body 22 .
- the deformable member 38 is in contacting engagement with at least one of the end cap 30 and the agitator body 22 , however, the deformable member 38 may be in contacting engagement with both the end cap 30 and the agitator body 22 .
- the deformable member 38 is positioned between the plurality of agitating members 32 and the end cap 30 .
- the deformable member 38 extends radially outwardly from the agitator body 22 and is configured to inhibit the ingress of hair and debris into the bearing 28 .
- the agitating members 32 extend from the agitator body a radial distance, and in one embodiment, the deformable member 38 extends beyond the radial distance of the agitating members 32 . In one embodiment, the deformable member 38 extends through the opening 18 during operation to contact the surface 50 to be cleaned.
- the deformable member 38 may be composed of a felted material, tufted bristles, microfiber, felt, thermoplastic elastomeric, rubber, sponge, foam, nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, or a similar material.
- the deformable member 38 is compressible and configured to allow the brushroll assembly 20 to be removed out a lateral side 15 of the housing for cleaning and/or maintenance.
- the end cap 30 includes an outer side 53 facing away from the agitator body 22 and an inner side 51 facing the first end 24 of the agitator body.
- the outer side 53 forms a portion of an exterior surface 57 of the housing.
- the inner side 51 includes a plurality of concentric annular ribs facing the first end 24 .
- the first end 24 of the agitator body includes a corresponding plurality of concentric annular protrusions 66 extending axially towards the end cap 30 .
- first concentric annular protrusion 66 ′ located radially outward of a second concentric annular protrusion 66 ′′.
- the first and the second annular ribs 64 ′, 64 ′′ are configured to overlap the corresponding first and second annular protrusions 661 , 66 ′′, so as to form a plurality of annular recesses 67 between the adjacent annular ribs and the annular protrusions.
- An outermost annular recess 67 ′ is formed between the first annular rib 64 ′ and the first annular protrusion 66 ′.
- the deformable member 38 is positioned adjacent the outermost annular recess 67 ′ and configured to inhibit debris from encountering the outermost annular recess 67 ′.
- the deformable member 38 is an annular seal adjacent the first end 24 of the agitator body and adjacent the end cap 30 , where the deformable member 38 is configured to inhibit debris from encountering the outermost annular recess 67 ′ of the end cap.
- the circumferential surface 47 of the agitator body 22 includes a groove or depression 37 at the first end 24 between the plurality of agitating member 32 and the end cap 30 .
- the groove 37 is configured to receive and retain the deformable member 38 during operation of the floor cleaner 10 .
- the groove 37 inhibits the movement of the deformable member 38 during operation, specifically movement along the longitudinal axis 100 inward, away from the end cap 30 .
- the deformable member 38 fits within the groove 37 such that the outer diameter of the deformable member 38 corresponds with the end cap 30 .
- the deformable member 38 is attached to the agitator body in the groove 37 by friction fit, adhesive, press-fit, mechanical fasteners, or a similar mechanism.
- the deformable member 38 includes an interior region and an exterior region, the interior region having a first connecting member 43 that is coupled to a second connecting member 45 on the circumferential surface 47 of the agitator body 22 , retaining the deformable member 38 on the agitator body 22 in operation.
- the interior region may be a rigid material and a deformable exterior region having a flexible elastomer coupled to the circumferential exterior forms the rest of the deformable member 38 .
- the deformable exterior region may have a felt, foam, microfiber, or other deformable material coupled to the circumferential exterior to complete the deformable member 38 .
- the brushroll assembly 20 further includes a second deformable member 38 ′.
- the second deformable member 38 ′ extends from the agitator body 22 between the plurality of agitating members 32 and the drive element 54 .
- the second deformable member 38 ′ is configured to inhibit ingress of debris into the drive mechanism.
- the second deformable member 38 ′ may be received and retained by a second groove 37 ′ on the agitator body 22 .
- the height of the second deformable member 38 ′ extending outwardly from the agitator body 22 is greater than or equal to the height of the adjacent agitating member 32 extending outwardly from the agitating body 22 , such that any hair or debris wrapped around the agitating member 32 is obstructed by the second deformable member 38 ′ prior to reaching the drive mechanism.
- the hair or debris on the agitating member 32 exceeds the height of the second deformable member 38 ′, the hair or debris then may enter the drive mechanism.
- the height of the deformable member 38 and the second deformable member 38 ′ extending outwardly from the agitator body 22 is equal to or slightly less than the height of the adjacent agitating members 32 .
- the deformable member 38 and second deformable member 38 ′ act as a first defense to inhibit hair and debris reaching the bearing 28 and the drive mechanism, respectively.
- FIG. 7 there is a labyrinth seal 52 arrangement defined in the relationship between overlapping relationship of the annular ribs 64 of the end cap and the annular protrusions 66 of the agitator body.
- the labyrinth seal 52 creates a tortuous path to inhibit hair and debris that overcomes the deformable member 38 from entering the bearing 28 through the outermost annular recess 67 ′.
- the plurality of annular recesses 67 create space, making the path more difficult for hair and debris to reach the bearing 28 .
- the labyrinth seal 52 arrangement between the end cap 30 and the agitator body 22 inhibits hair and debris from entering the bearing 28 or the drive element 54 .
- the agitator body 22 extends between the first end 24 and the second end 26 opposite the first end 24 .
- the agitating members 32 rotate along with the agitator body 22 , contacting the surface 50 through the opening 18 and facilitating surface debris pick-up.
- the agitator members 32 are configured to improve surface debris pick-up and reduce brushroll maintenance by inhibiting hair and debris wrap around the brushroll.
- the agitating members 32 include only a plurality of vanes 34 .
- the plurality of vanes 34 inhibit hair wrap, in part, by increasing the circumference of the agitator body 22 , and preventing hair and debris below a predetermined length from wrapping fully around the agitator body 22 .
- the solid nature of the vanes 34 from the first end 24 to the second end 26 create a surface that is more difficult for hair to wrap around when compared to tufted bristles with gaps between adjacent tufts.
- the vanes 34 can be made of rubber, nylon, vinyl, thermoplastic elastomer, nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, among other materials. The flexibility of the vanes 34 allows bending and flexing during operation, which further reduces debris wrap around the agitator body 22 by not allowing the hair and debris a stationary portion to wrap around.
- the plurality of vanes 34 have a first vane end 31 adjacent the first end 24 and a second vane end 33 adjacent the second end 26 .
- the vanes 34 include a surface engaging portion 35 longitudinally extending along the agitator body 22 between the first vane end 31 and the second vane end 33 .
- the surface engaging portion 35 promotes surface debris pick-up and inhibits hair and debris wrap around the agitator body 22 .
- the deformable member 38 is positioned between the first vane end 31 and the end cap 30 to inhibit debris from encountering the end cap 30 .
- the second deformable member 38 ′ is positioned between the second vane end 33 and the drive element 54 to inhibit debris from encountering the drive element 54 .
- the plurality of agitating members 32 wrap around the agitator body 22 between the first end 24 and the second end 26 in a helical pattern.
- the helical pattern can be defined by a single helix, such that all of the agitating members 32 lie in a single, common helix with respect to the longitudinal axis 100 .
- the agitating members 32 may be a plurality of vanes 34 and bristles 36 that have the same helical pattern around the brushroll assembly 20 , however each having a different starting point.
- the congruent helical pattern of the agitating members 32 helps provide even and consistent debris pick-up, while inhibiting hair and debris wrap around the brushroll 20 .
- the helical pattern of the plurality of vanes and the helical pattern of the bristles extend around the agitator body in opposite directions.
- the plurality of vanes 234 wrap helically approximately 180 degrees around the agitator body between the first end 224 and the second end 226 in a first direction, while the bristles 236 wrap helically approximately 360 degrees around the agitator body in a second direction, opposite the first direction.
- the plurality of vanes 234 wrap helically between approximately 200 degrees and 400 degrees around the agitator body in the first direction, while the bristles 236 wrap helically approximately 360 degrees to 720 degrees in the second direction.
- a greater difference between the opposing helical patterns i.e. where the opposing helical patterns have higher rotations about the agitator body, results in a greater intersection angle where the vanes 234 and the bristles cross 236 .
- a greater intersection angle can be advantageous because it results in less bristles being removed due to interference with the vanes.
- the vanes 34 define a constant helical pattern about the agitator body 22 from the first end 24 to the second end 26
- the one or more rows of bristles 36 define an oscillating or variable pattern about the agitator body 22 from the first end 24 to the second end 26
- the oscillating pattern of the bristles 36 extends between two adjacent vanes 34 . This oscillating pattern allows for a variable distance between the row of bristles 36 and the adjacent vanes 34 , which can result in improved cleaning and reduced wrapping of hair and debris around the agitator body 22 . Further, it has been found that hair and debris wrap is most prevalent in the space between adjacent tufted bristles. Having bristles with an oscillating pattern creates a more angled path for hair and debris to get embedded in the space between adjacent bristles, thus making for a more difficult path and reducing hair and debris wrap around the agitator body 22 .
- an agitator body 322 has two or more cleaning members 332 extending between a first end 324 and a second end 326 of the agitator body 322 .
- the cleaning members 332 includes a plurality of spaced cylindrical portions 336 between the first end 324 and the second end 326 that are connected by a webbed portion 334 .
- the spaced cylindrical portions 336 provide agitation to the surface 50 to be cleaned to enhance debris pick-up, while the webbed portion 334 inhibits hair, threads, and debris from becoming wrapped between the cylindrical portions 336 , and around the agitator body 322 .
- the cleaning members 332 may be elastomeric, vinyl, or any suitable material.
- the series of webbed portions 334 of the cleaning member 332 between the plurality of spaced cylindrical portions 336 between the first end 324 and the second end 326 of the agitator body 322 form a vane 334 ′ extending longitudinally between the first end 324 and the second end 326 , extending outwardly from the agitator body 322 , and the plurality of cylindrical portions 336 are spaced along and integral with the vane 334 ′.
- the agitator body 322 has one or more cleaning members 332 extending between the first end 324 and the second end 326 of the agitator body 322 .
- the cylindrical portions 336 extend upwardly and are configured to engage and agitate the surface to be cleaned.
- the plurality of cylindrical portions 336 extend radially from the agitator body 322 .
- the cylindrical portions 336 extend at an angle from the agitator body 322 , such as extending rearwardly at an angle between 0 and 35 degrees from the radial position.
- the cylindrical portions 336 extend forwardly at an angle between 0 and 35 degrees from the radial position.
- the plurality cylindrical portions 336 extend outwardly from the agitator body 322 a first height H 1 .
- the plurality of spaced cylindrical portions or protrusions 336 between the first end 324 and the second end 326 are connected by the webbed portions 334 .
- the webbed portions 334 extend outwardly from the agitator body 322 a second height H 2 .
- the first height H 1 and the second height H 2 are measured from the agitator body 322 .
- the first height H 1 of the cylindrical portions 336 is larger than the second height H 2 of the adjacent webbed portion 334 .
- the first height H 1 and the second height H 2 is varied based on desired cleaning outcomes.
- the second height H 2 is 98% or less of the first height H 1 .
- the second height H 2 is 50% or less of the first height H 1 .
- the second height H 2 is 25% or less of the first height H 1 .
- the first height H 1 of each cylindrical portion 336 is the same from the first end 324 to the second end 326 .
- the height H 1 varies from the first end 324 to the second end 326 .
- the height H 1 of each adjacent cylindrical portion increases from the first end 324 to a center portion 327 of the agitator body, and the height H 1 of each adjacent cylindrical portion decreases from the center portion 327 to the second end 326 .
- the height H 1 of the cylindrical portion is greatest at the center portion 327 and lowest at the first end 324 and the second end 326 .
- the height H 1 of each adjacent cylindrical portion decreases from the first end 324 to the center portion 327 of the agitator body, and the height H 1 of each adjacent cylindrical portion increases from the center portion 327 to the second end 326 .
- the height H 1 of the cylindrical portion is lowest at the center portion 327 and greatest at the first end 324 and the second end 326 .
- the cylindrical portions have different cross-sectional shapes in different embodiments, based on the desired cleaning surface and cleaning needs, such as circular, polygonal, oval, or other cross-sectional shapes.
- the cylindrical portions 336 have a circular cross-sectional shape, the cross-section taken through the cylindrical portion or a projection of the cylindrical portion above the webbed portion, or at a height above the second height.
- the cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portions 336 may be a regular or irregular polygon.
- the cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portions 336 is a hexagon.
- the cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portions 336 is a pentagon. In other embodiments, not shown, the cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portions may be a square, triangle, rhombus, trapezoid or other polygonal shape.
- the cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portions 336 is selected based on desired amount of size and width in the cylindrical portions, the desired appearance, and cleaning surface needs.
- the webbed portion 334 includes a front side 350 in a direction of rotation and a rearward side 352 opposite the front side 350 .
- An axis 360 extends through the longitudinal center of one or more of the cylindrical portions 336 .
- the axis 360 is coaxial with the with the webbed portion 334 , such that a portion of the cylindrical portion 336 is on the front side 350 and a portion of the cylindrical portion 336 is on the rearward side 352 .
- the axis 360 is aligned with or forward of the front side 350 .
- the axis 360 is aligned with or rearward of the rearward side 352 .
- the cylindrical portions act not only to agitate the surface to be cleaner, but also to support and reinforce the webbed portion.
- the plurality of cylindrical portions are spaced in a pattern along the cleaning member or vane between the first end and the second end. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10 , the plurality of cylindrical portions 336 are spaced equidistant from an adjacent cylindrical portion along the cleaning member or vane, between the first end 324 and the second end 326 . In one embodiment, adjacent cylindrical portions 336 are separated by 2 millimeters or less. In one embodiment, adjacent cylindrical portions 336 are separated by between 2 millimeters and 10 millimeters. In one embodiment, adjacent cylindrical portions 336 are separated by between 10 millimeters and 20 millimeters. In one embodiment, adjacent cylindrical portions 336 are separated by greater than 20 millimeters.
- one or more of the plurality of cylindrical portions 336 has a cross-sectional dimension D 1 greater than the thickness D 2 of the webbed portion 334 .
- the cross-sectional dimension D 1 of one or more of the cylindrical portions is between 1.1 and 2 times the thickness D 2 of the webbed portion.
- the cross-sectional dimension D 1 of one or more of the cylindrical portions is between 2 and 5 times the thickness D 2 of the webbed portion.
- the cross-sectional dimension D 1 of one or more of the cylindrical portions is between 5 and 8 times the thickness D 2 of the webbed portion.
- the cross-sectional dimension D 1 of one or more of the cylindrical portions is between 8 and 10 times the thickness D 2 of the webbed portion.
- one or more of the plurality of cylindrical portions has a cross-sectional dimension that is larger adjacent the agitator body than a cross-sectional dimension distal the agitator body. Said another way, as the cylindrical portion extends outwardly away from the agitator body, the cross-sectional dimension decreases.
- the cylindrical portions extend from the first end to the second end without a vane or webbed portion extending between adjacent cylindrical portions. In this embodiment, the cylindrical portions have a cross-sectional dimension that is at least 15% the height of the cylindrical portion.
- the brushroll assembly 420 has a plurality of couplers 440 a , 440 b circumferentially arranged on a circumferential surface of the agitator body 422 , extending axially along the agitator body 422 .
- a first cleaning vane 434 has a longitudinal first edge 434 a and a longitudinal second edge 434 b .
- the first edge 434 a and the second edge 434 b of the cleaning vane 434 slidably connect to a corresponding first coupler 440 a and second coupler 440 b of the plurality of couplers 440 .
- the cleaning vane 434 covers the length of the agitator body 422 , however, in other embodiments, the cleaning vane 434 covers only a portion of the length of the agitator body 422 .
- the first end 434 a and the second end 434 b of the cleaning vane 434 are integrally molded with the first coupler 440 a and second coupler 440 b , respectively.
- the first cleaning vane 434 forms a loop 435 between the longitudinal edges that extends outwardly away from the agitator body 422 .
- the cleaning vane 434 includes a plurality of holes 442 extending through the cleaning vane 434 between the first edge 434 a and the second edge 434 b .
- a row of bristles 436 may be tufted through the plurality of holes 442 in the cleaning vane 434 and attached to a corresponding plurality of bristle holes 437 on the agitator body 422 ( FIG. 11 ).
- a plurality of bristle receptacles 439 are integrally molded with the cleaning vane 434 along the length of the cleaning vane.
- the row of bristles 436 are tufted into the bristle receptacles 439 .
- the bristle receptacles 439 secure and retain the bristles 436 .
- the bristles 436 and bristle receptacles 439 are separate and apart from the agitator body 422 .
- the first cleaning vane 434 may be composed of an elastomeric material, vinyl, woven fiber or a similar material.
- the flexibility of the first cleaning vane 434 material increases durability and longevity of the cleaner. Further, the flexibility of the first cleaning vane 434 allows the cleaner to flex and bend during operation, which reduces debris wrap around the agitator body 422 by not allowing the hair and debris a stationary portion to wrap around.
- the row of bristles 436 provide agitation to the surface 50 to be cleaned to improve cleaning performance and debris pick-up.
- the loop 435 of the first cleaning vane 434 increases the circumference of the agitator body 422 .
- the agitator body 422 may include secondary cleaning members 444 configured to further enhance debris pick-up and inhibit debris and hair wrap around the agitator body 422 .
- the secondary cleaning members 444 may be composed of the same material as the first cleaning vane 434 , or a different material.
- the housing 14 further includes an extending portion or protrusion 56 directed inwardly towards the agitator body 22 .
- the extending portion or protrusion 56 may extend from a central location of the housing 14 , as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , however the protrusion may extend anywhere in the housing 14 between the first end 24 and the second end 26 .
- the extending portion 56 is configured to contact the surface engaging portion 35 of the agitating members.
- the extending portion 56 provides a flicking-type action to the agitating members 32 to inhibit hair and debris wrap around the agitator body 22 .
- the flicking action inhibits hair and debris wrap primarily by creating vibration and movement of the agitating members 32 that then vibrate and move the hair and debris, facilitating removal through a suction opening 58 .
- Another beneficial aspect of the flicking action by the extending portion 56 is the direct contact with the hair and debris. This direct contact helps inhibit the hair and debris from becoming tightly wound around the agitator body 22 .
- the extending portion 56 is positioned adjacent the suction opening 58 to facilitate the uptake of the dislodged hair and debris into the working air path.
- the extending portion 56 has a length along the brushroll axis in the longitudinal direction between 3 and 25 millimeters contacting the surface engaging portion 35 of the vane as the vane rotates past the extending portion 56 in operation. In other embodiments, the extending portion 56 has a length in the longitudinal direction of between 25 and 50 millimeters contacting the surface engaging portion 35 of the vane as the vane rotates past the extending portion 56 in operation.
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Abstract
A cleaning head for a floor cleaner including a brushroll assembly configured to clean a surface to be cleaned and reduce brushroll maintenance, such as removing hair and debris wrapped around the brushroll assembly and removing debris from a bearing of the brushroll assembly. The brushroll assembly may comprise agitator members to assist in cleaning and maintenance.
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/224,786, filed Apr. 7, 2021, which a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/136,450, filed Dec. 29, 2020, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/960,826, filed Jan. 14, 2020, the entire contents all of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
- The present invention relates to cleaning heads for floor cleaners.
- A cleaning head for a floor cleaner comprising a housing, a brushroll chamber, a brushroll assembly. The brushroll assembly is mounted in the brushroll chamber. The brushroll assembly includes an agitator body having a first end and a second end. A cleaning member is coupled to the agitator body between the first end and the second end. The cleaning member includes a vane extending outwardly from the agitator body and a plurality of cylindrical portions extending outwardly from the agitator body spaced along the vane. The cylindrical portions are integral with the vane.
- A cleaning head for a floor cleaner comprising a housing, a brushroll chamber, a brushroll assembly. The brushroll assembly is mounted in the brushroll chamber. The brushroll assembly includes an agitator body having a first end and a second end. A cleaning member is coupled to the agitator body extending longitudinally between the first end and the second end. The cleaning member includes a plurality of cylindrical portions extending outwardly from the agitator body a first height. The plurality of cylindrical portions are spaced along the agitator body, each cylindrical portion connected to the adjacent spaced cylindrical portion by a webbed portion. The webbed portion extends outwardly from the agitator body a second height.
- Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a floor cleaner according to one embodiment. -
FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the floor cleaner ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a view of a brushroll assembly of the floor cleaner ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 a is an exploded view of the brushroll assembly of the floor cleaner ofFIG. 1 showing two deformable members in a removed position. -
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the brushroll assembly of the floor cleaner ofFIG. 1 showing a bearing and an end cap in a removed position. -
FIG. 4 a is an exploded view of an alternate brushroll assembly of the floor cleaner ofFIG. 1 showing an alternate deformable member in a removed position. -
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view through the housing and the brushroll assembly ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 is an alternate cross-sectional view through the housing and the brushroll assembly ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view through the brushroll assembly ofFIG. 3 showing an end cap and a bearing of the brushroll assembly. -
FIG. 7 a is a detail view of the cross-section ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternate brushroll embodiment of the floor cleaner ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternate brushroll embodiment. -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternate brushroll embodiment. -
FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternate brushroll embodiment. -
FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternate brushroll embodiment. -
FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of the brushroll ofFIG. 11 , shown without bristles. -
FIG. 13 a is a schematic perspective view of the brushroll ofFIG. 11 , shown with bristles. -
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an alternate brushroll embodiment. -
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the alternate brushroll shown inFIG. 14 . -
FIG. 16 is a detail view of the brushroll ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 17 a is a detail view of the brushroll ofFIG. 10 , according to one embodiment. -
FIG. 17 b is a detail view of the brushroll ofFIG. 10 , according to an alternative embodiment. -
FIG. 17 c is a detail view of the brushroll ofFIG. 10 , according to an alternative embodiment. -
FIG. 18 a is a schematic detail view of the brushroll ofFIG. 10 , according to an alternative embodiment. -
FIG. 18 b is a schematic detail view of the brushroll ofFIG. 10 , according to an alternative embodiment. - Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.
- The disclosure relates to a
brushroll assembly 20 for a floor cleaner, such as a vacuum cleaner, an extractor, or the like.FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate afloor cleaner 10. Thefloor cleaner 10 includes acleaning head 12 having ahousing 14, abrushroll chamber 16, and alongitudinal brushroll assembly 20. Thebrushroll assembly 20 is rotatably mounted within thehousing 14 and configured to rotate about abearing 28 located on at least one end thereof. In one embodiment, thebrushroll assembly 20 includes adeformable member 38 adjacent thebearing 28 configured to inhibit ingress of debris, hair, threads, and the like from entering thebearing 28. In the illustrated embodiment, thedeformable member 38 is an annular felt material. - The
brushroll chamber 16 includes an opening 18 in a bottom side of thehousing 14. Thebrushroll assembly 20 is operably longitudinally mounted in thebrushroll chamber 16 and extends through theopening 18 to contact asurface 50 to be cleaned. Thebrushroll assembly 20 includes anagitator body 22 that rotates relative to thehousing 14 about alongitudinal axis 100. Thelongitudinal axis 100 extends through afirst end 24 and a second send 26 of theagitator body 22. Thebearing 28 facilitates rotation of theagitator body 22 about thelongitudinal axis 100. - The
brushroll assembly 20 further includes anend cap 30 on one or both ends of thebrushroll body 22 rotationally supporting and positioning the brushroll in thebrushroll chamber 16. Thecleaning head 12 may include an agitator drive mechanism in thehousing 14. In the illustrated embodiment, thebrushroll body 22 includes oneend cap 30 positioning thefirst end 24 of the brushroll in thebrushroll chamber 16, and the drive mechanism includes adrive element 54 operably engaging thesecond end 26 of theagitator body 22, such as by a coaxial spline or gear drive engaging asplined recess 55 on the second end. In one embodiment, thebrushroll assembly 20 includes theend cap 30 on thefirst end 24 and on thesecond end 26 and thedrive element 54 operably engages the brushroll body, such as by a gear or belt. In operation, the drive mechanism drives rotation of theagitator body 22 about thebearing 28 forming thelongitudinal axis 100 shown inFIG. 3 . Thebearing 28 may be operably mounted on theend cap 30. Theagitator body 22 is rotatable to agitate, wipe, and clean thesurface 50 to be being cleaned. - The
agitator body 22 includes a plurality of agitatingmembers 32. In one embodiment, the agitatingmembers 32 include a plurality ofvanes 34 and at least one row ofbristles 36. The agitatingmembers 32 extend between thefirst end 24 and thesecond end 26 and are spaced around thecircumferential surface 47 of theagitator body 22, extending outwardly from theagitator body 22. In the illustrated embodiment shown inFIGS. 3-6 , thebristles 36 are shown schematically. Any suitable material may be used for the bristles, such as polymer bristles, fiber or rubber bristles, cloth strips or pads, beater bars, wipers, bristle strips, microfiber, and the like. - The
agitator body 22 extends along thelongitudinal axis 100, with theend cap 30 received on theagitator body 22 to surround thebearing 28, and thedeformable member 38 positioned around a circumferential surface of theagitator body 22. Thedeformable member 38 is in contacting engagement with at least one of theend cap 30 and theagitator body 22, however, thedeformable member 38 may be in contacting engagement with both theend cap 30 and theagitator body 22. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
deformable member 38 is positioned between the plurality of agitatingmembers 32 and theend cap 30. Thedeformable member 38 extends radially outwardly from theagitator body 22 and is configured to inhibit the ingress of hair and debris into thebearing 28. The agitatingmembers 32 extend from the agitator body a radial distance, and in one embodiment, thedeformable member 38 extends beyond the radial distance of the agitatingmembers 32. In one embodiment, thedeformable member 38 extends through theopening 18 during operation to contact thesurface 50 to be cleaned. Thedeformable member 38 may be composed of a felted material, tufted bristles, microfiber, felt, thermoplastic elastomeric, rubber, sponge, foam, nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, or a similar material. Thedeformable member 38 is compressible and configured to allow thebrushroll assembly 20 to be removed out alateral side 15 of the housing for cleaning and/or maintenance. - In one embodiment, the
end cap 30 includes anouter side 53 facing away from theagitator body 22 and aninner side 51 facing thefirst end 24 of the agitator body. When theend cap 30 is mounted in thehousing 14, theouter side 53 forms a portion of anexterior surface 57 of the housing. Theinner side 51 includes a plurality of concentric annular ribs facing thefirst end 24. In one embodiment, there is a first concentricannular rib 64′ located radially outward of a second concentricannular rib 64″. Thefirst end 24 of the agitator body includes a corresponding plurality of concentricannular protrusions 66 extending axially towards theend cap 30. In one embodiment, there is a first concentricannular protrusion 66′ located radially outward of a second concentricannular protrusion 66″. The first and the secondannular ribs 64′, 64″ are configured to overlap the corresponding first and secondannular protrusions 661, 66″, so as to form a plurality ofannular recesses 67 between the adjacent annular ribs and the annular protrusions. An outermostannular recess 67′ is formed between the firstannular rib 64′ and the firstannular protrusion 66′. Thedeformable member 38 is positioned adjacent the outermostannular recess 67′ and configured to inhibit debris from encountering the outermostannular recess 67′. In one embodiment, thedeformable member 38 is an annular seal adjacent thefirst end 24 of the agitator body and adjacent theend cap 30, where thedeformable member 38 is configured to inhibit debris from encountering the outermostannular recess 67′ of the end cap. In order for thedeformable member 38 to effectively inhibit debris ingress to thebearing 28 or adjacent area, it is useful for thedeformable member 38 to be received and retained between the plurality of agitatingmembers 32 and theend cap 30. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 3 a , thecircumferential surface 47 of theagitator body 22 includes a groove ordepression 37 at thefirst end 24 between the plurality of agitatingmember 32 and theend cap 30. Thegroove 37 is configured to receive and retain thedeformable member 38 during operation of thefloor cleaner 10. Thegroove 37 inhibits the movement of thedeformable member 38 during operation, specifically movement along thelongitudinal axis 100 inward, away from theend cap 30. In one embodiment, thedeformable member 38 fits within thegroove 37 such that the outer diameter of thedeformable member 38 corresponds with theend cap 30. Thedeformable member 38 is attached to the agitator body in thegroove 37 by friction fit, adhesive, press-fit, mechanical fasteners, or a similar mechanism. - In one embodiment schematically shown in
FIG. 4 a , thedeformable member 38 includes an interior region and an exterior region, the interior region having a first connectingmember 43 that is coupled to a second connectingmember 45 on thecircumferential surface 47 of theagitator body 22, retaining thedeformable member 38 on theagitator body 22 in operation. In one embodiment, the interior region may be a rigid material and a deformable exterior region having a flexible elastomer coupled to the circumferential exterior forms the rest of thedeformable member 38. The deformable exterior region may have a felt, foam, microfiber, or other deformable material coupled to the circumferential exterior to complete thedeformable member 38. - Most of the dust, hair, and debris is drawn into a working air path of the
floor cleaner 10 by a working airflow and into adirt collection chamber 52. However, some amount of hair, string, thread, or debris can become wrapped around thebrushroll assembly 20 andagitator body 22 and can eventually migrate towards theends agitator body 22, toward thebearing 28. Thedeformable member 38 acts as a barrier between the hair/debris and thebearing 28. As shown inFIGS. 3 and 3 a, thebrushroll assembly 20 further includes a seconddeformable member 38′. The seconddeformable member 38′ extends from theagitator body 22 between the plurality of agitatingmembers 32 and thedrive element 54. The seconddeformable member 38′ is configured to inhibit ingress of debris into the drive mechanism. The seconddeformable member 38′ may be received and retained by asecond groove 37′ on theagitator body 22. In one embodiment, the height of the seconddeformable member 38′ extending outwardly from theagitator body 22 is greater than or equal to the height of the adjacent agitatingmember 32 extending outwardly from the agitatingbody 22, such that any hair or debris wrapped around the agitatingmember 32 is obstructed by the seconddeformable member 38′ prior to reaching the drive mechanism. In the event the height of the hair or debris on the agitatingmember 32 exceeds the height of the seconddeformable member 38′, the hair or debris then may enter the drive mechanism. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 3 and 7 , the height of thedeformable member 38 and the seconddeformable member 38′ extending outwardly from theagitator body 22 is equal to or slightly less than the height of the adjacent agitatingmembers 32. Thedeformable member 38 and seconddeformable member 38′ act as a first defense to inhibit hair and debris reaching thebearing 28 and the drive mechanism, respectively. - Hair and debris entering the
end cap 30 andbearing 28 interfere with the rotation of theagitator body 22 on thebearing 28, which negatively impacts the overall cleaning performance of thefloor cleaner 10 and may require service or maintenance. In one embodiment, shown inFIG. 7 , there is alabyrinth seal 52 arrangement defined in the relationship between overlapping relationship of theannular ribs 64 of the end cap and theannular protrusions 66 of the agitator body. Thelabyrinth seal 52 creates a tortuous path to inhibit hair and debris that overcomes thedeformable member 38 from entering thebearing 28 through the outermostannular recess 67′. The plurality ofannular recesses 67 create space, making the path more difficult for hair and debris to reach thebearing 28. Thelabyrinth seal 52 arrangement between theend cap 30 and theagitator body 22 inhibits hair and debris from entering thebearing 28 or thedrive element 54. - The
agitator body 22 extends between thefirst end 24 and thesecond end 26 opposite thefirst end 24. The agitatingmembers 32 rotate along with theagitator body 22, contacting thesurface 50 through theopening 18 and facilitating surface debris pick-up. Theagitator members 32 are configured to improve surface debris pick-up and reduce brushroll maintenance by inhibiting hair and debris wrap around the brushroll. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 14 and 15 , the agitatingmembers 32 include only a plurality ofvanes 34. The plurality ofvanes 34 inhibit hair wrap, in part, by increasing the circumference of theagitator body 22, and preventing hair and debris below a predetermined length from wrapping fully around theagitator body 22. Further, the solid nature of thevanes 34 from thefirst end 24 to thesecond end 26 create a surface that is more difficult for hair to wrap around when compared to tufted bristles with gaps between adjacent tufts. Thevanes 34 can be made of rubber, nylon, vinyl, thermoplastic elastomer, nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, among other materials. The flexibility of thevanes 34 allows bending and flexing during operation, which further reduces debris wrap around theagitator body 22 by not allowing the hair and debris a stationary portion to wrap around. - In one embodiment, the plurality of
vanes 34 have afirst vane end 31 adjacent thefirst end 24 and asecond vane end 33 adjacent thesecond end 26. Thevanes 34 include asurface engaging portion 35 longitudinally extending along theagitator body 22 between thefirst vane end 31 and thesecond vane end 33. Thesurface engaging portion 35 promotes surface debris pick-up and inhibits hair and debris wrap around theagitator body 22. In this embodiment, thedeformable member 38 is positioned between thefirst vane end 31 and theend cap 30 to inhibit debris from encountering theend cap 30. The seconddeformable member 38′ is positioned between thesecond vane end 33 and thedrive element 54 to inhibit debris from encountering thedrive element 54. - In one embodiment, the plurality of agitating
members 32 wrap around theagitator body 22 between thefirst end 24 and thesecond end 26 in a helical pattern. The helical pattern can be defined by a single helix, such that all of the agitatingmembers 32 lie in a single, common helix with respect to thelongitudinal axis 100. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , the agitatingmembers 32 may be a plurality ofvanes 34 and bristles 36 that have the same helical pattern around thebrushroll assembly 20, however each having a different starting point. The congruent helical pattern of the agitatingmembers 32 helps provide even and consistent debris pick-up, while inhibiting hair and debris wrap around thebrushroll 20. - In one embodiment, the helical pattern of the plurality of vanes and the helical pattern of the bristles extend around the agitator body in opposite directions. In the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 9 , the plurality ofvanes 234 wrap helically approximately 180 degrees around the agitator body between thefirst end 224 and thesecond end 226 in a first direction, while thebristles 236 wrap helically approximately 360 degrees around the agitator body in a second direction, opposite the first direction. In another embodiment, the plurality ofvanes 234 wrap helically between approximately 200 degrees and 400 degrees around the agitator body in the first direction, while thebristles 236 wrap helically approximately 360 degrees to 720 degrees in the second direction. A greater difference between the opposing helical patterns, i.e. where the opposing helical patterns have higher rotations about the agitator body, results in a greater intersection angle where thevanes 234 and the bristles cross 236. A greater intersection angle can be advantageous because it results in less bristles being removed due to interference with the vanes. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 8 , thevanes 34 define a constant helical pattern about theagitator body 22 from thefirst end 24 to thesecond end 26, and the one or more rows ofbristles 36 define an oscillating or variable pattern about theagitator body 22 from thefirst end 24 to thesecond end 26. The oscillating pattern of thebristles 36 extends between twoadjacent vanes 34. This oscillating pattern allows for a variable distance between the row ofbristles 36 and theadjacent vanes 34, which can result in improved cleaning and reduced wrapping of hair and debris around theagitator body 22. Further, it has been found that hair and debris wrap is most prevalent in the space between adjacent tufted bristles. Having bristles with an oscillating pattern creates a more angled path for hair and debris to get embedded in the space between adjacent bristles, thus making for a more difficult path and reducing hair and debris wrap around theagitator body 22. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 10 , anagitator body 322 has two ormore cleaning members 332 extending between afirst end 324 and asecond end 326 of theagitator body 322. The cleaningmembers 332 includes a plurality of spacedcylindrical portions 336 between thefirst end 324 and thesecond end 326 that are connected by awebbed portion 334. The spacedcylindrical portions 336 provide agitation to thesurface 50 to be cleaned to enhance debris pick-up, while thewebbed portion 334 inhibits hair, threads, and debris from becoming wrapped between thecylindrical portions 336, and around theagitator body 322. The cleaningmembers 332 may be elastomeric, vinyl, or any suitable material. This arrangement has been found to increase the time between required cleaning and maintenance, while providing desired surface debris pick-up. Stated another way, the series ofwebbed portions 334 of the cleaningmember 332 between the plurality of spacedcylindrical portions 336 between thefirst end 324 and thesecond end 326 of theagitator body 322 form avane 334′ extending longitudinally between thefirst end 324 and thesecond end 326, extending outwardly from theagitator body 322, and the plurality ofcylindrical portions 336 are spaced along and integral with thevane 334′. - In the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 10 , theagitator body 322 has one ormore cleaning members 332 extending between thefirst end 324 and thesecond end 326 of theagitator body 322. Thecylindrical portions 336 extend upwardly and are configured to engage and agitate the surface to be cleaned. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 10 , the plurality ofcylindrical portions 336 extend radially from theagitator body 322. In another embodiment, thecylindrical portions 336 extend at an angle from theagitator body 322, such as extending rearwardly at an angle between 0 and 35 degrees from the radial position. In one embodiment, thecylindrical portions 336 extend forwardly at an angle between 0 and 35 degrees from the radial position. - As illustrated in
FIG. 16 , the pluralitycylindrical portions 336 extend outwardly from the agitator body 322 a first height H1. The plurality of spaced cylindrical portions orprotrusions 336 between thefirst end 324 and thesecond end 326 are connected by thewebbed portions 334. As illustrated inFIG. 16 , thewebbed portions 334 extend outwardly from the agitator body 322 a second height H2. The first height H1 and the second height H2 are measured from theagitator body 322. - In the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 10 and 16 , the first height H1 of thecylindrical portions 336 is larger than the second height H2 of the adjacentwebbed portion 334. In other embodiments, the first height H1 and the second height H2 is varied based on desired cleaning outcomes. In one embodiment, the second height H2 is 98% or less of the first height H1. In another embodiment, the second height H2 is 50% or less of the first height H1. In yet another embodiment, the second height H2 is 25% or less of the first height H1. - In the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 10 , the first height H1 of eachcylindrical portion 336 is the same from thefirst end 324 to thesecond end 326. In one embodiment, the height H1 varies from thefirst end 324 to thesecond end 326. For example, in one embodiment the height H1 of each adjacent cylindrical portion increases from thefirst end 324 to acenter portion 327 of the agitator body, and the height H1 of each adjacent cylindrical portion decreases from thecenter portion 327 to thesecond end 326. In this embodiment, the height H1 of the cylindrical portion is greatest at thecenter portion 327 and lowest at thefirst end 324 and thesecond end 326. In another embodiment, the height H1 of each adjacent cylindrical portion decreases from thefirst end 324 to thecenter portion 327 of the agitator body, and the height H1 of each adjacent cylindrical portion increases from thecenter portion 327 to thesecond end 326. In this embodiment, the height H1 of the cylindrical portion is lowest at thecenter portion 327 and greatest at thefirst end 324 and thesecond end 326. - The cylindrical portions have different cross-sectional shapes in different embodiments, based on the desired cleaning surface and cleaning needs, such as circular, polygonal, oval, or other cross-sectional shapes. In the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 10 and 17 a, thecylindrical portions 336 have a circular cross-sectional shape, the cross-section taken through the cylindrical portion or a projection of the cylindrical portion above the webbed portion, or at a height above the second height. In other embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of thecylindrical portions 336 may be a regular or irregular polygon. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 17 b , the cross-sectional shape of thecylindrical portions 336 is a hexagon. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 17 c , the cross-sectional shape of thecylindrical portions 336 is a pentagon. In other embodiments, not shown, the cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portions may be a square, triangle, rhombus, trapezoid or other polygonal shape. The cross-sectional shape of thecylindrical portions 336 is selected based on desired amount of size and width in the cylindrical portions, the desired appearance, and cleaning surface needs. - In the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 17 a, 18 a, and 18 b , thewebbed portion 334 includes afront side 350 in a direction of rotation and arearward side 352 opposite thefront side 350. Anaxis 360 extends through the longitudinal center of one or more of thecylindrical portions 336. In the embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 17 a, 17 b, and 17 c , theaxis 360 is coaxial with the with thewebbed portion 334, such that a portion of thecylindrical portion 336 is on thefront side 350 and a portion of thecylindrical portion 336 is on therearward side 352. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 18 a , theaxis 360 is aligned with or forward of thefront side 350. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 18 b , theaxis 360 is aligned with or rearward of therearward side 352. In these embodiments, the cylindrical portions act not only to agitate the surface to be cleaner, but also to support and reinforce the webbed portion. - In one embodiment, the plurality of cylindrical portions are spaced in a pattern along the cleaning member or vane between the first end and the second end. In the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 10 , the plurality ofcylindrical portions 336 are spaced equidistant from an adjacent cylindrical portion along the cleaning member or vane, between thefirst end 324 and thesecond end 326. In one embodiment, adjacentcylindrical portions 336 are separated by 2 millimeters or less. In one embodiment, adjacentcylindrical portions 336 are separated by between 2 millimeters and 10 millimeters. In one embodiment, adjacentcylindrical portions 336 are separated by between 10 millimeters and 20 millimeters. In one embodiment, adjacentcylindrical portions 336 are separated by greater than 20 millimeters. - In the embodiments illustrated in
FIGS. 17 a, 17 b, and 17 c , one or more of the plurality ofcylindrical portions 336 has a cross-sectional dimension D1 greater than the thickness D2 of thewebbed portion 334. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional dimension D1 of one or more of the cylindrical portions is between 1.1 and 2 times the thickness D2 of the webbed portion. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional dimension D1 of one or more of the cylindrical portions is between 2 and 5 times the thickness D2 of the webbed portion. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional dimension D1 of one or more of the cylindrical portions is between 5 and 8 times the thickness D2 of the webbed portion. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional dimension D1 of one or more of the cylindrical portions is between 8 and 10 times the thickness D2 of the webbed portion. In one embodiment, one or more of the plurality of cylindrical portions has a cross-sectional dimension that is larger adjacent the agitator body than a cross-sectional dimension distal the agitator body. Said another way, as the cylindrical portion extends outwardly away from the agitator body, the cross-sectional dimension decreases. In another embodiment, the cylindrical portions extend from the first end to the second end without a vane or webbed portion extending between adjacent cylindrical portions. In this embodiment, the cylindrical portions have a cross-sectional dimension that is at least 15% the height of the cylindrical portion. - In the embodiment shown schematically in
FIGS. 11-13 , thebrushroll assembly 420 has a plurality ofcouplers agitator body 422, extending axially along theagitator body 422. A first cleaning vane434 has a longitudinalfirst edge 434 a and a longitudinalsecond edge 434 b. Thefirst edge 434 a and thesecond edge 434 b of the cleaningvane 434 slidably connect to a correspondingfirst coupler 440 a andsecond coupler 440 b of the plurality of couplers 440. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 13 , the cleaningvane 434 covers the length of theagitator body 422, however, in other embodiments, the cleaningvane 434 covers only a portion of the length of theagitator body 422. In one embodiment, thefirst end 434 a and thesecond end 434 b of the cleaningvane 434 are integrally molded with thefirst coupler 440 a andsecond coupler 440 b, respectively. When the first and second ends 434 a and 434 b are coupled to the agitator body, thefirst cleaning vane 434 forms aloop 435 between the longitudinal edges that extends outwardly away from theagitator body 422. In one embodiment, the cleaningvane 434 includes a plurality ofholes 442 extending through the cleaningvane 434 between thefirst edge 434 a and thesecond edge 434 b. A row ofbristles 436 may be tufted through the plurality ofholes 442 in thecleaning vane 434 and attached to a corresponding plurality of bristle holes 437 on the agitator body 422 (FIG. 11 ). In the embodiment shown inFIG. 12 , a plurality ofbristle receptacles 439 are integrally molded with the cleaningvane 434 along the length of the cleaning vane. The row ofbristles 436 are tufted into the bristle receptacles 439. The bristle receptacles 439 secure and retain thebristles 436. In this embodiment, thebristles 436 and bristlereceptacles 439 are separate and apart from theagitator body 422. - The
first cleaning vane 434 may be composed of an elastomeric material, vinyl, woven fiber or a similar material. The flexibility of thefirst cleaning vane 434 material increases durability and longevity of the cleaner. Further, the flexibility of thefirst cleaning vane 434 allows the cleaner to flex and bend during operation, which reduces debris wrap around theagitator body 422 by not allowing the hair and debris a stationary portion to wrap around. The row ofbristles 436 provide agitation to thesurface 50 to be cleaned to improve cleaning performance and debris pick-up. Theloop 435 of thefirst cleaning vane 434 increases the circumference of theagitator body 422. By increasing the circumference of theagitator body 422, fewer hairs are able to wrap entirely around theagitator body 422, resulting in less overall hair, thread, and debris wrap. Additionally, theagitator body 422 may includesecondary cleaning members 444 configured to further enhance debris pick-up and inhibit debris and hair wrap around theagitator body 422. Thesecondary cleaning members 444 may be composed of the same material as thefirst cleaning vane 434, or a different material. - In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 5 and 6 , thehousing 14 further includes an extending portion orprotrusion 56 directed inwardly towards theagitator body 22. The extending portion orprotrusion 56 may extend from a central location of thehousing 14, as shown inFIGS. 5 and 6 , however the protrusion may extend anywhere in thehousing 14 between thefirst end 24 and thesecond end 26. The extendingportion 56 is configured to contact thesurface engaging portion 35 of the agitating members. The extendingportion 56 provides a flicking-type action to the agitatingmembers 32 to inhibit hair and debris wrap around theagitator body 22. The flicking action inhibits hair and debris wrap primarily by creating vibration and movement of the agitatingmembers 32 that then vibrate and move the hair and debris, facilitating removal through asuction opening 58. Another beneficial aspect of the flicking action by the extendingportion 56 is the direct contact with the hair and debris. This direct contact helps inhibit the hair and debris from becoming tightly wound around theagitator body 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the extendingportion 56 is positioned adjacent thesuction opening 58 to facilitate the uptake of the dislodged hair and debris into the working air path. In one embodiment, the extendingportion 56 has a length along the brushroll axis in the longitudinal direction between 3 and 25 millimeters contacting thesurface engaging portion 35 of the vane as the vane rotates past the extendingportion 56 in operation. In other embodiments, the extendingportion 56 has a length in the longitudinal direction of between 25 and 50 millimeters contacting thesurface engaging portion 35 of the vane as the vane rotates past the extendingportion 56 in operation. By facilitating removal and inhibition of hair wrap around theagitator body 22, the extendingportion 56 also inhibits hair and debris overcoming thedeformable member 38 and entering thebearing 28. - Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.
Claims (20)
1. A cleaning head for a floor cleaner comprising:
a housing;
a brushroll chamber having an opening in a bottom side of the housing; and
a brushroll assembly operably mounted in the brushroll chamber, the brushroll assembly having an agitator body extending between a first end and a second end opposite the first end, and an agitating member extending through the opening and configured to contact a surface to be cleaned,
wherein the agitating member includes
a vane extending longitudinally along the agitator body and connected to the agitator body along a first vane edge and a second vane edge such that the vane forms a loop extending outwardly from the agitator body.
2. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the first vane edge and the second vane edge are connected to the agitator body separated by at least 4 mm.
3. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the housing includes an extending portion directed inwardly towards the agitator body configured to contact at least a portion of the agitating member.
4. The cleaning head of claim 1 , further comprising a first coupler connected to the first vane edge and a second coupler connected to the second vane edge, the first coupler connected to the agitator body adjacent the second coupler such that the vane forms the loop extending outwardly from the agitator body.
5. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the housing includes an extending portion directed inwardly towards the agitating body, the extending portion positioned within the brushroll chamber between the first and second ends configured to contact at least a portion of the vane as the vane rotates past the extending portion in the brushroll chamber during operation.
6. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the vane includes a plurality of apertures extending longitudinally along the vane in a direction from the first end of the agitator body toward the second end of the agitator body.
7. The cleaning head of claim 6 , further comprising a row of bristles extending from the agitator body, through the corresponding plurality of apertures aligned therewith and configured to contact the surface to be cleaned.
8. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the agitator body includes a secondary cleaning member configured to further enhance debris pick-up and inhibit debris and hair wrap around the agitator body, wherein the secondary cleaning members is composed of the same material as the vane.
9. The cleaning head of claim 8 , wherein the secondary cleaning member includes a single edge attached to the agitator body.
10. The cleaning head of claim 8 , wherein the brushroll assembly rotates relative to the housing about a longitudinal axis that extends through the first end and the second end of the agitator body, wherein the secondary cleaning member is spaced at least 90 degrees from the vane around the longitudinal axis.
11. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the vane is a first vane and wherein the agitating member further includes
a second vane extending longitudinally along the agitator body and connected to the agitator body along a first vane edge and a second vane edge such that the second vane forms a second loop extending outwardly from the agitator body.
12. The cleaning head of claim 12, wherein the brushroll assembly rotates relative to the housing about a longitudinal axis that extends through the first end and the second end of the agitator body, and wherein the second vane is spaced from the first vane around the longitudinal axis.
13. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the loop extends along the agitator body from the first end of the agitator body to the second end of the agitator body.
14. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the loop extends along a portion of the agitator body in a direction from the first end of the agitator body toward the second end of the agitator body.
15. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the agitator body has a length measured from the first end to the second end, wherein the loop extends along the length of the agitator body in a direction from the first end of the agitator body toward the second end of the agitator body.
16. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the vane is composed of elastomeric material.
17. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the brushroll assembly rotates relative to the housing about a longitudinal axis that extends through the first end and the second end of the agitator body, and wherein the loop extends along the longitudinal axis.
18. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the loop forms a hollow space between the vane and the agitator body.
19. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the agitating member further includes a row of bristles.
20. The cleaning head of claim 1 , wherein the vane includes a plurality of bristle receptacles integrally molded, and wherein the agitating members further include a row of bristles tufted into the bristle receptacles and extending outwardly from the loop, such that the row of bristles are configured to contact the surface to be cleaned.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US18/436,220 US20240172907A1 (en) | 2020-01-14 | 2024-02-08 | Floor cleaner |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US202062960826P | 2020-01-14 | 2020-01-14 | |
US17/136,450 US20210212535A1 (en) | 2020-01-14 | 2020-12-29 | Floor cleaner |
US17/224,786 US20210219800A1 (en) | 2020-01-14 | 2021-04-07 | Floor cleaner |
US18/436,220 US20240172907A1 (en) | 2020-01-14 | 2024-02-08 | Floor cleaner |
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US17/224,786 Continuation US20210219800A1 (en) | 2020-01-14 | 2021-04-07 | Floor cleaner |
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US20240172907A1 true US20240172907A1 (en) | 2024-05-30 |
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US17/224,786 Abandoned US20210219800A1 (en) | 2020-01-14 | 2021-04-07 | Floor cleaner |
US18/436,220 Pending US20240172907A1 (en) | 2020-01-14 | 2024-02-08 | Floor cleaner |
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US17/224,786 Abandoned US20210219800A1 (en) | 2020-01-14 | 2021-04-07 | Floor cleaner |
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CN113876254B (en) * | 2021-11-01 | 2022-10-14 | 江西太空机器人科技有限公司 | Robot of sweeping floor based on 5G communication |
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JPH02104321A (en) * | 1988-10-13 | 1990-04-17 | Hookii:Kk | Rotary brush |
ES2162185T3 (en) * | 1996-03-01 | 2001-12-16 | Unilever Nv | DEVICE FOR CLEANING THE FLOOR. |
US20120017936A1 (en) * | 2010-07-22 | 2012-01-26 | Dant Ryan T | Agitator bristle tufting design |
US8533905B1 (en) * | 2010-11-15 | 2013-09-17 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Vacuum accessory tool |
US9693663B2 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2017-07-04 | Bissell Homecare, Inc. | Tufting method and brushroll for vacuum cleaner |
GB2562523B (en) * | 2017-05-18 | 2019-11-13 | Dyson Technology Ltd | A cleaner head |
-
2021
- 2021-04-07 US US17/224,786 patent/US20210219800A1/en not_active Abandoned
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- 2024-02-08 US US18/436,220 patent/US20240172907A1/en active Pending
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US20210219800A1 (en) | 2021-07-22 |
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