WO2007132142A1

WO2007132142A1 - Attachment device for vacuum cleaner

Info

Publication number: WO2007132142A1
Application number: PCT/GB2007/001257
Authority: WO
Inventors: Glyn Hauser
Original assignee: Morphy Richards Limited
Priority date: 2006-05-04
Filing date: 2007-04-05
Publication date: 2007-11-22
Also published as: GB0608781D0; GB2437702B; GB2437702A; WO2007132142B1

Abstract

A wet and dry pick-up attachment device (1100) for a conventional vacuum cleaner. The attachment device (1100) comprises attachment means (1128) suitable for coupling with a flexible hose (1201) of a conventional vacuum cleaner. The device comprises an inlet nozzle (1101) to allow fluid to be drawn into the device by the suction airflow created by the vacuum cleaner and a liquid storage tank (1111) to store liquid drawn into the device by the suction airflow. Separation means are provided to separate liquid drawn into the device (1100) from the airflow and to prevent the liquid from passing downstream of the attachment device (1100) to the vacuum cleaner.

Description

ATTACHMENT DEVICE FORVACUUM CLEANER

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an attachment device for a vacuum cleaner.

Background to the Invention

Conventional vacuum cleaners find widespread domestic and industrial use in the removal of dirt, crumbs and the like from floor surfaces such as laminate floors, kitchen tiles and carpets. Such vacuum cleaners comprise an electric motor which serves to create suction at one or more nozzle regions of the vacuum cleaner. This suctional force created by the vacuum motor is sufficiently strong to draw-in unwanted particulate solid matter from the surface which is then deposited in a storage chamber or bag-like attachment for subsequent disposal.

The majority of domestic and industrial vacuum cleaners are dry pick-up devices which operate on an air-based system and are unsuitable for removing liquids from floor surfaces. The liquid, if drawn into the vacuum cleaner would damage the electric motor and be dangerous to an operator of the vacuum cleaner.

However, it is common for liquid spillages to occur on floor surfaces. The cleaning of such spillages typically requires addition of a cleaning liquid (e.g. water) to dilute the spillage and subsequent removal with a sponge or cloth. So as to reduce the risk of staining, the spillage must be removed quickly, easily and efficiently.

In contrast to dry pick-up vacuum cleaner, dedicated wet pick-up vacuum cleaners have been developed being particularly suited for deep-cleaning carpets. These vacuum cleaners operate by dispensing a cleaning solution onto the carpet. The cleaning solution then acts to disolve or dilute any unwanted matter present within the carpet which is then sucked-up by the vacuum cleaner for subsequent disposal. A typical example of a wet pick-up device in which a circulating cleaning liquid provides for the removal of liquid spillages is disclosed in US 2005/0098041.

An additional type of hybrid vacuum cleaner has also emerged being suitable for both dry and wet pick-up operation.

US 4,542,557 discloses a wet and dry pick up vacuum cleaner in which both a liquid cleaning agent and extracted dirt are drawn up through a nozzle and then deposited in a storage chamber. Both the chamber and the nozzle are formed as a single structure to form a canister which is readily secured to and removable from a housing which contains the electric motor and fan. Accordingly, liquid and dirt may be readily disposed of by detaching the canister from the housing and then decanting off the liquid and dirt slurry. Variations on the design of wet and dry vacuum cleaners can be found in US 6,691 ,369; US 4,894,881 ; US 5,210,902; US 2003/0217430 and US 6,154,917.

A number of problems exist with conventional wet and dry based vacuum cleaners. Due to the dual operating functionality of such cleaners, the technology involved is relatively sophisticated which decreases reliability and ultimately the longevity of the device due to component wear. Wet and dry cleaners are typically bulkily, requiring large dirty liquid and separate clean liquid storage tanks which in turn poses inconvenience to a user during storage of the vacuum cleaner.

Given the widespread use of conventional dry pick-up vacuum cleaners what is required is an attachment device being suitable for retro-fitting to such vacuum cleaners that would be effective and convenient in the removal of liquid spillages from floor surfaces.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention provides a convenient attachment for an existing and conventional dry pick-up vacuum cleaner that is configured to increase the functionality of the vacuum cleaner enabling it to operate in both wet and dry pickup modes being particularly suitable for the removal of liquid based spillages from floor surfaces such as carpeted, laminate, vinyl and tiled surfaces.

According to one embodiment, the attachment device comprises a plurality of means to separate liquid within the airflow passing through the device and to store this separated liquid for subsequent disposal. By providing a plurality of independent means to separate the liquid from the airflow the attachment device is safe to operate with conventional dry pick-up vacuum cleaners.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a handheld attachment device for a vacuum cleaner, said device comprising: means to attach said device to said vacuum cleaner whereby a primary suction airflow created by said vacuum cleaner is capable of flowing through a region of said device; an inlet nozzle configured to allow a fluid to be drawn into said device by said suction airflow; a liquid storage tank configured to store liquid drawn into said device by said suction airflow; and separation means configured to separate said liquid from said airflow within said device so as to prevent said liquid from passing from said device to said vacuum cleaner.

Preferably, the separation means comprises a cyclonic airflow chamber positioned in the airflow path between said inlet nozzle and said means to attach said device to said vacuum cleaner wherein said chamber is configured such that as said airflow passes through said chamber said airflow is directed to create a cyclonic airflow path within said chamber.

Preferably, the attachment device comprises cyclone inlets configured to direct said suction airflow onto the internal walls of said chamber so as to create said cyclonic airflow. Preferably, the attachment device further comprises a primary filter positioned within said chamber, said filter positioned in airflow communication with an outlet of said chamber wherein said suction airflow is capable of passing downstream of said chamber via said filter and said chamber outlet, said filter being configured to inhibit liquid within said suction airflow passing downstream of said chamber. Additionally, the attachment device may also comprise a secondary filter positioned at least partially downstream of said chamber, said secondary filter configured to inhibit liquid within said suction airflow passing downstream of said chamber.

Preferably, the device further comprises channel means positioned in fluid communication between said chamber and said storage tank, said channel means configured to channel liquid deposited within said chamber by said cyclonic airflow to said storage tank.

Preferably, the device further comprises a ball-bearing moveably housed within said primary filter, said ball-bearing configured to roll within said filter to contact said chamber outlet to prevent said suction airflow and said liquid from passing downstream of said chamber in response to said device being inverted or partially inverted.

Preferably, the device further comprises at least one U-bend hose portion positioned in airflow communication between said inlet nozzle and said storage tank.

Preferably, the storage tank comprises baffle means positioned internally within said storage tank and configured to inhibit the flow of liquid between a front and a rear portion of said storage tank.

Preferably, the device comprises at least one bleed valve configured to allow air to be bled into the device. The device may comprise a housing body extending between the inlet nozzle and the means to attach the device to the vacuum cleaner wherein the bleed valve comprises at least one aperture positioned at the housing body.

Preferably, the device further comprises a float-type valve positioned within said storage tank, said valve configured to prevent said storage tank overfilling with liquid by terminating said suction airflow through said storage tank in response to liquid within said region of said device contacting said valve.

Preferably, the storage tank comprises a substantially planner external base.

Preferably, the storage tank is releasably attachable to the device. Preferably, the inlet nozzle is releaseably attachable to the device so that the device may be configured with different shaped inlet nozzles to suit different applications.

Optionally, the liquid storage tank and/or the housing body may comprise at least a wall portion being transparent, partially transparent or transparent/translucent enabling at user to view the interior of the tank and/or attachment device.

The device may further comprise a second liquid storage tank configured to house a dispensing fluid, such as a detergent. The detergent may be dispensed from the second liquid storage tank via a dispensing nozzle.

The present attachment device is designed to be handheld by a user and is of a convenient size to be manoeuvred easily using one hand only. The liquid storage device is configured to store approximately 500ml of liquid however larger or smaller tanks could be releasably secured to the housing body. According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided an attachment device for a vacuum cleaner, said device comprising: means to attach said device to a vacuum cleaner whereby a suction airflow created by said vacuum cleaner is capable of flowing through a region of said device; an inlet nozzle configured to allow a fluid to be drawn into said device by said suction airflow; and a cyclonic airflow separation chamber positioned in the airflow path between said inlet nozzle and said means to attach said device to said vacuum cleaner; wherein as said airflow enters said separation chamber a cyclonic airflow path is created wherein liquid within said suction airflow path is deposited within said separation chamber and prevented from passing downstream of said chamber to said vacuum cleaner.

According to a further embodiment the attachment device of the present invention utilises the primary suction created by the electric motor of the dry pickup vacuum cleaner to generate a secondary suction which is physically separated from the primary suction. This is achieved using a coupled fan assembly in which a first turbo fan, driven by the motor of the vacuum cleaner, drives a second fan which in turn creates the secondary suction. A sealed partition is provided between the rotatable fans serving to provide a substantially sealed physical barrier between a first region of the device through which flows the primary suction air path and a second region of the device through which flows the secondary suction air path. Accordingly, the substantially sealed partition is configured to prevent liquid drawn into the attachment device from passing into the path of the primary suction airflow and ultimately in contact with the electric motor of the dry pick-up vacuum cleaner.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided an attachment device for a vacuum cleaner, said device comprising: means to attach said device to said vacuum cleaner whereby a primary suction airflow created by said vacuum cleaner is capable of flowing through a region of said device; a first fan rotatably mounted at said region of said device capable of being exposed to said primary suction airflow; a second fan rotatably mounted at said device outside of said region exposed to said primary suction airflow; means to couple rotation of said first and second fans wherein rotation of said first fan by the primary suction airflow created by said vacuum cleaner drives rotation of said second fan to create a secondary suction airflow; and a primary partition configured to physically separate said primary suction airflow from said secondary suction airflow and prevent a fluid from passing from a region of said device occupied by said second fan to said region of said device occupied by said first fan.

Preferably rotation of the first and second fans is coupled via at least one shaft that extends through the sealed partition, both fans being mounted on the shaft. The shaft is capable of rotation to translate rotational motion of the first fan to the second fan. Alternatively, rotational coupling of the fans may be by means of one or a plurality of gears. The rotational speed of the second fan may be different to that of the first fan due to the choice of gearing employed.

Preferably, both fans are mounted within a fan unit comprising an additional partition positioned between the sealed partition and the second fan. The additional partition preferably comprises at least one or a plurality of apertures though which the secondary suction airflow is capable of flowing. The inventors have found that by allowing air to flow past the second fan via the apertures it is possible to increase the suctional force generated by the second fan.

The device comprises an air outlet for the secondary suction airflow so as to provide a means by which air drawn into the device may be expelled so as to achieve the desired suction airflow path through the device. Similarly, the device further comprises an air inlet in fluid communication with the region of the device housing the first fan. The inlet provides a means by which air may be drawn into the device via the electric motor of the vacuum cleaner. Preferably, the first fan comprises a conventional turbo fan of design know in the art. Additionally, a turbo air intake funnel is provided in fluid communication with the air inlet so as to allow the intake of air to circulate around the turbo fan. According to conventional turbo fan technology, the funnel comprises a decreasing cross-sectional area from the air intake end towards the second innermost end.

The device further comprises a suction nozzle through which liquid may be sucked-up by the device via the secondary suction airflow. Preferably, the device comprises a dirty liquid collection vessel connected to the suction nozzle whereby liquid sucked-up through the nozzle is then collected within the collection vessel.

Preferably, the dirty liquid collection vessel comprises a first aperture in fluid communication the said suction nozzle and a second aperture in fluid communication with the second fan. Preferably, the dirty liquid collection vessel further comprises a shield wall extending internally within the liquid collection vessel at a region between the first and second apertures. The shield wall is configured to inhibit splashes or liquid droplets from being drawn through the second aperture by the suctional force created by the second fan.

Preferably, the device comprises a liquid volume monitor configured to be responsive to the amount of liquid within the collection vessel. Preferably, the device comprises closure means configured to terminate the flow of the secondary suction airflow through the device in response to a predetermined state of the volume monitor i.e., a signal by or physical movement of the volume monitor when a predetermined volume of liquid has been collected within the collection vessel.

Preferably, the device further comprises a clean liquid storage vessel capable of storing clean liquid, such as a cleaning fluid. A liquid dispensing nozzle may be further provided being connected to the liquid storage vessel whereby liquid within the storage vessel may be dispensed from the device via the dispensing nozzle. The attachment means, configured to allow attachment of the vacuum cleaner to the wet-pick up device, is configured for attachment to, in particular, a suction hose of a conventional vacuum cleaner and is capable of mating with different sized vacuum cleaner hoses and ports. For example, the attachment means may comprise a tubular section having a tapered internal cross-section capable of receiving an end portion of a vacuum cleaner suction hose.

Preferably, the dual fan assembly unit comprises bearings, seals and/or gaskets mounted respectively between each fan and the means by which the fans are rotatably coupled to one another so as to allow rotation of the shaft or gears whilst maintaining a fluid-tight seal between the regions of the device housing the first and second fans.

Brief Description of the Drawings

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 illustrates an elevated perspective view of the attachment device according to a specific implementation of the present invention;

Figure 2 illustrates an underside perspective view of the attachment device of figure 1 ;

Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the internal components of the attachment device of figure 2;

Figure 4 illustrates a cross sectional of side elevation view of the attachment device of figure 3 through the plane A— A of figure 1 ; Figure 5 illustrates a cross sectional side elevation view of the fan unit and liquid volume monitor of figure 4;

Figure 6 illustrates an underside perspective view of the internal components of the attachment device of figure 4 highlighting the liquid volume monitor of figure 5;

Figure 7 illustrates the liquid volume monitor of figure 6;

Figure 8 illustrates an elevated perspective view of some of the internal components of the attachment device of figure 4 highlighting in particular the liquid dispensing components and suction nozzle according to the specific implementation of the present invention;

Figure 9 illustrates a selection of the liquid dispensing components of the attachment device of figure 8;

Figure 10 illustrates a selection of the liquid dispensing components and suction nozzle of the attachment device of figure 8;

Figure 11 illustrates a cross sectional side elevation view of the attachment device according to a further specific implementation of the present invention;

Figure 12 illustrates an external plan view of the attachment device of figure 11;

Figure 13 illustrates an external side elevation view of the attachment device of figure 12.

Detailed Description There will now be described by way of example a specific mode contemplated by the inventors. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the description.

Figures 1 and 2 illustrate perspective views of the attachment device 100. The device comprises a hollow outer casing 101 configured to house a number of internal components illustrated in figures 3 to 10. A handle 102 is formed integrally with casing 101 and extends from an upper surface of casing 101 and is of a size suitable to be gripped by the fingers and thumb of a user. Handle 102 extends over approximately half the length of device 100 and is positioned towards a rear portion 111 of device 100.

An attachment means 103 extends rearwardly from device 100 enabling the device to be removeably attached to a vacuum cleaner and in particular a flexible hose of a vacuum cleaner.

Positioned towards rear portion 111 are a plurality of apertures 104, 105 that extend through outercasing 101. Apertures 104, 105 allow for the circulation of air into and from the interior of attachment device 100. Apertures 104 correspond to air inlets and are positioned adjacent an end portion 310 of a turbo air intake funnel illustrated in figure 3 to 5. The plurality of apertures 105 are positioned adjacent air outlet regions 308, 309 provided at a fan unit 304 illustrated in figures 3 to 5.

An elongate window 106 is positioned at opposite sides of outer casing 101 and extends across a portion of the length of the device. An additional window 107 is provided towards a front region of the device 112. Windows 106, 107 comprisθ a transparent or translucent plastic enabling a user to view the interior of device 100.

The device comprises an internal dirty liquid collection vessel 302 and a clean liquid storage vessel 303 as illustrated in figures 3 and 4. The interior of vessel 303 is accessible via a snap-fit sealing cap 109. The interior of vessel 302 is accessible via screw plug 201 positioned through a region of outer casing 101 at an underside section of the device.

The attachment device is capable of dispensing clean liquid from liquid storage vessel 303 via depression of a button 108. Liquid is dispensed from the device via a dispensing nozzle 110 positioned at the front portion 112 of the device.

Figure 3 illustrates selected internal components of the attachment device with the outer casing 101 cut-away across the plane A — A. Positioned at forward region 112 of the attachment device a suction tube 301 extends between suction nozzle 200 positioned at outer casing 101 , and liquid collection vessel 302. Suction tube 301 is connected in sealed contact with vessel 302 and nozzle 200 to prevent liquid loss during liquid transfer into vessel 302.

A shield 311 is positioned within vessel 302 so as to incompletely divide its internal volume.

Fan unit 304 is positioned towards the rear 111 of attachment device 100 and is coupled to attachment means 103 which extends from fan unit 304 through outer casing 101. Fan unit 304 comprises turbo fan casing 313 and secondary suction fan casing 305, 306. The secondary suction fan casing is in turn divided into two regions by partition 307 extending internally within casing 304. Secondary suction fan casing 305 comprises at least one aperture 308 and secondary suction fan casing 306 comprises at least one aperture 309. Apertures 308 and 309 are configured to allow the passage of air flow from within casing 304 to a region outside the attachment device. Turbo fan casing 313 comprises at least one aperture 310. Aperture 310 forms one end of a turbo air intake funnel extending within turbo fan casing 313. Aperture 310 serves to allow airflow into the intake funnel of turbo fan casing 313.

Extending between liquid collection vessel 302 and fan unit 304 a conduit 312 is positioned so as to connect the interior of fan unit 304 with the interior of liquid collection vessel 302 in fluid communication. Accordingly, an airflow path is provided from the external suction nozzle 200 through suction tube 301, liquid collection vessel 302, conduit 312 and secondary fan casing 305, 306 to air outlets 308, 309 and 105. Similarly, a physically separated airflow path is provided from air intake 104 through the air intake funnel of turbo fan casing 313 and attachment means 103 towards the electric motor of the conventional vacuum cleaner (not shown).

The clean liquid storage vessel 303 is positioned directly above dirty liquid collection vessel 302. The internal volumes of vessels 302 and 303 are physically separated and access to the interior of storage vessel 303 is provided via spout 314 extending from vessel 303 to outer casing 101. Cap 109 provides a liquid- tight seal about the open end of spout 314 to prevent liquid loss from vessel 303 during use and storage. A liquid dispensing tube 300 connects dispensing nozzle 110 with the interior of storage vessel 303 to enable liquid within vessel 303 to be dispensed via nozzle 110.

Figure 4 illustrates a cross-sectional side elevation view of attachment device 100 through plane A — A of figure 1. The interior of dirty liquid storage vessel 302 is accessible via three openings. One end of suction tube 301 is positioned at a first opening 405 of vessel 302 providing a fluid flow path through suction nozzle 200 and suction tube 301 into liquid collection vessel 302. A second opening 406 is closed by screw plug 201 which is removabley screwed into position to provide a fluid-tight seal at opening 406. When plug 201 is removed, liquid within vessel 302 may be drained via opening 406.

A third opening 407 is provided at an upper surface end region of liquid collection vessel 302. Conduit 312 extends between fan unit 304 and vessel 302. A first end 408 of conduit 312 is connected to vessel 302 over and about opening 407 to form a fluid-tight seal. A second end 409 of conduit 312 is connected to fan unit 304 over and about an opening 410 of fan unit 304 to form a fluid-tight seal. According, a fluid flow path is created from suction nozzle 200 through suction tube 301 , opening 405, vessel 302, opening 407, conduit 312, opening 410 to apertures 308, 309 of the fan casing 305, 306.

A liquid volume monitor 403 is positioned within liquid collection vessel 302 configured to be responsive to changes in liquid volume within vessel 302.

Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional side elevation view of the rear portion of the attachment device of figure 4.

Volume monitor 403 extends from opening 407 towards the interior of vessel 302. Volume monitor comprises a base section 513 which is suspended in position by a plurality of support columns 511 connecting base 513 with the walls of vessel 302. A plurality of apertures 512 are positioned through base 513. A float 510 is housed between columns 511 and base section 513 and is moveable in the region defined by base 513, columns 511 and an annular lip 515 positioned at opening 407 at an opposite end of columns 511 relative to base 513. Accordingly, float 510 is capable of movement between annular lip 515 and base 513.

The outer casing of fan unit 304 is divided into a first casing 512 shaped so as to fit over and about suction fan 401 having fan blades 506 which extend radially from a centrally positioned shaft 404. Casing 512 is sealed in position against outer fan casing 305. A secondary partition 501 extends from fan casing 305 towards shaft 404 between turbo fan 400 and suction fan 401 to form a secondary partition wall. Suitable bearing means 503 are housed within an innermost region of partition wall 501 and rotatable shaft 404. A plurality of apertures 502 are provided through secondary partition 501. Fan casing 306 is connected to an opposite face of casing 305 relative to casing 512. A primary partition wall 500 extends from casing 306 inwardly towards shaft 404 with bearing means 504 positioned between an innermost portion of partition 500 and rotatable shaft 404. Outer casing 306 and partition walls 500 and 501 define an internal chamber 517 connected in fluid communication with a suction fan chamber 508 defined by casting 512 and partition wall 501. Turbo fan casing 313 is positioned in contact with partition wall 500 at an opposite face of wall 500 relative to chamber 517. Turbo fan 400 is rotatably mounted within turbo fan chamber 509 defined by fan casing 313 and partition 500. Turbo fan chamber 509 is provided in fluid communication with the interior of attachment means 103. The turbo air intake funnel comprises a conventional turbo worm design being curved along its length from the air intake end 514 via midsection 516 towards a second end being incident upon turbo fan 400. Turbo fan 400 comprises a conventional design having turbo fan blades 505 extending radially outward from centrally positioned shaft 404.

Turbo fan 400, housed within turbo fan casing 313, is physically separated from suction fan 401 via partition wall 500 and secondary partition wall 501. Accordingly, any fluid present within suction fan chamber 508 is incapable of passing through to turbo fan chamber 509 and the interior of attachments means 103.

Figure 6 illustrates a lower perspective view of a selection of the internal components of the attachment device 100. A highlighted region A of figure 6 is further illustrated in figure 7 showing the liquid volume monitor 403. Base 513 is suspended from a region about opening 407 by columns 511 so as to not obscure opening 407 and allow the passage of fluid from vessel 302 through conduit 312. As the volume of liquid within vessel 302 increases, float 510 is dislodged from base 315 and rises with the liquid level. Float 510, being guided by columns 511 , is then brought into contact with annular lip 515 to provide a fluid-tight seal at opening 407. When float 510 is positioned in contact with annular lip 515 air and liquid is prevented from passing from vessel 302 into conduit 312. By the action of movement of float 510 into contact with annular lip 515, the airflow through this region of the attachment device is terminated.

Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of selected internal components of attachment device 100 with regions B and C highlighted in more detail in Figures 9 and 10, respectively.

Referring to figure 9, button 108 is moveably connected to plunger shaft 902. At an opposite end of shaft 902 to button 108 a cylinder 901 is connected and housed within a cylinder casing 900. In operation, by depressing button 108, cylinder 901 is depressed relative to casing 900 such that the compressive force generated by cylinder 901 within casting 900 forces liquid transferred from vessel 303, through dispensing nozzle 110 via suitable tubing (not shown). Dispensing nozzle 110 is connected in fluid communication with the liquid housed within vessel 303 by the pump-action cylinder arrangement 900, 901 , 902 and suitable tubing (not shown) which extends from end 1002 of dispensing tube 300, referring to Figure 10. The pump-action liquid dispensing apparatus of the present invention comprises known components and method found within the aerosol and domestic fabric ironing fields.

Suction nozzle 200 comprises an elongate opening defining a rectangular cross-section of dimensions 1-1.5 mm - 20 mm. Suction tube 301 comprises an internal bore 1000 having a substantially rectangular cross-section having dimensions corresponding to that of the suction nozzle opening. Internal bore 1000 comprises a curved end section 1001 at which point suction tube 301 is secured to an upper wall 1002 of liquid collection vessel 302 at the region of first opening 405.

In operation, a user secures attachment device 100 to the end of a flexible hose typically provided with a conventional domestic vacuum cleaner via attachment means 103. The cylindrical hose end section (not shown) is inserted within the hollow attachment means 103 and is secured in position by the frictional close-fit. Accordingly, turbo fan 400 is placed in the airflow path created by the electric motor of the vacuum cleaner. Air is drawn into the attachment device by the electric motor of the vacuum cleaner creating a primary suction airflow path through apertures 104 formed in outer casing 101 and into the turbo air intake funnel 514, 516. The airflow within turbo funnel 514, 516 is accelerated and drives rotation of the turbo fan 400 and shaft 404. The primary suction airflow then continues through the attachment means 103 and flexible hose of the vacuum cleaner towards the vacuum cleaner motor.

As secondary suction fan 401 is rotatably coupled to turbo fan 400 via shaft 404, rotation of suction fan 401 is driven indirectly by turbo fan 400 which is specifically designed to rotate at high velocity. Fan blades 506 are specifically designed to maximize the suctional force created by fan 401 during rotation. When the liquid collection tank openings 405 and 407 are not obscured by the presence of liquid within vessel 302, air is drawn into the attachment device by the rotational action of fan 401 and blades 506.

The attachment device of the present invention is particularly suitable for removing solid and liquid matter from floor surfaces, in particular carpets, upholstery and the like. For efficient solid and liquid removal and to reduce the likelihood of staining, a cleaning solution stored within vessel 303, may be dispensed via dispensing nozzle 110 onto the area of carpet where liquid or solid matter has been spilled. Once the attachment device has been connected to a vacuum cleaner and the vacuum cleaner is operational, suction nozzle 200 is brought into contact with the spillage whereby the secondary suction created by fan 401 draws-in the liquid which is drawn through suction tube 301 and collected in vessel 302. To prevent liquid from passing into the conduit 312, shield 311 is positioned between openings 405 and 407.

By providing apertures 502 through partition 501 the suctional force created by fan 401 is increased as air is drawn past fan 401 through chamber 508 into chamber 517 and out of the attachment device via air outlet 309 and apertures 105. The airflow path also includes passage through chamber 508 and out of air outlet 308.

According to further specific implementations of the present invention, turbo fan 400 may be coupled to suction fan 401 via a plurality of gears such that the rotational velocity of the suction fan 401 may be stepped-up or down relative to that of turbo fan 400. Additionally, by appropriate modifications to the outer casing 101 and by using suitable gearing which is rotatable by the primary suction airflow, the attachment device of the present invention is capable of driving rotation of additional apparatus coupled to such gearing. For example, a rotatable scrubbing brush coupled by additional gearing could be driven by rotation of turbo fan 400.

Figure 11 illustrates a further specific implementation of the present invention. Attachment device 1110 comprises an inlet nozzle 1101 positioned towards one end of a housing body 1132. A second end 1128 of housing body 1132 is configured to mate with an end portion of a flexible hose (not shown) of a vacuum cleaner (not shown) which is capable of insertion within a cavity 1129 formed within end 1128. lnlet nozzle 1101 is removeably attached to main body 1132 via suitable fixing means 1103, being bayonet-type fixings for example. A liquid storage tank 1111 is releasably secured to housing body 1132 at a region between inlet nozzle 1101 and connection end 1128 via bayonet-type fixings 1109, 1118. Suitable O- rings 1110, 1119 provide sealing means between tank 1111 and housing body 1132.

Tank interior 1111 is provided in fluid communication with inlet nozzle 1101 via hosing 1107, being flexible silicone pipe. A separate portion of hosing 1102 is formed separately and is formed into a U-bend at the region of inlet nozzle 1102. The presence of the U-bend prevents backspill or reverse flow of liquid that has already entered hosing 1102, 1107, reemerging from inlet nozzle 1101.

A further liquid storage tank 1106 is partially housed within housing body 1132 and is provided in fluid communication with a dispensing nozzle 1104 by way of hosing 1105. A depressible button 1130 is mounted to protrude from housing 1132 such that depression of button 1132 via conventional means (not shown), forces liquid within secondary storage tank 1106 to be dispensed from dispensing nozzle 1104.

Liquid storage tank 1111 may comprise baffle plates (not shown) positioned internally at various positions between front region 1133 and a rear region 1134 of tank 1111. The baffle plates are configured to prevent 'sloshing' and 'spitting' of liquid within tank 1111 as attachment device 1100 is maneuvered by a user. So as to allow attachment device 1100 to be freestanding and to slide over flat surfaces, an external base portion 1112 is substantially planner.

A float-like valve 1113 is positioned internally and towards rear portion 1134 of tank 1111. Valve 1113 comprises a bullet shaped float 1114 slideably mounted within a cylindrical housing 1135. One end of housing 1135 is connected to suitable hosing 1117 whilst a second end is exposed to the interior of tank 1111 and comprises an aperture 1115. A plurality of apertures 1116 are formed in housing 1135 configured to allow airflow through valve 1113 and into hosing 1117.

Hosing 1117 extends from tank 1111 within housing body 1132 to a cyclonic airflow chamber 1121. A plurality of cyclone inlets 1120 are provided at the interface between hosing 1117 and a cylindrical interior 1122 of cyclonic airflow chamber 1121.

A substantially cylindrical filter 1124 is centrally positioned within cylindrical chamber 1122 comprising a plurality of elongate slots 1125 extending along its longitudinal axis. Slots 1125 provide an airflow passageway from chamber 1122 to a chamber outlet 1126. A ball-bearing 1123 is moveably housed within the cylindrical filter 1124 and is capable of rolling backwards and forwards within the filter body to contact and block chamber outlet 1126 when attachment device 1100 is orientated appropriately.

A plurality of channels 1131 provide a fluid passageway between chamber 1121 and storage tank 1111. Channels 1132 may comprise suitable hosing (not shown) or may be formed integrally or non integrally within housing body 1132.

A further additional filter (not shown) may be provided to extend from surface 1127 adjacent to cyclone chamber outlet 1126. This secondary filter is configured to prevent very fine airborne water droplets from passing downstream of the secondary filter into the flexible hose of the vacuum cleaner attached at second end 1128 via cavity 1129.

Figure 12 illustrates an external plan view of the attachment device of figure 11 with a vacuum cleaner hose 1201 inserted within cavity 1129 at end 1128. A plurality of apertures 1202 are positioned through housing body 1132 towards end 1128. Apertures 1201 function as a bleed valve enabling air to be bled into the airflow stream flowing through attachment device 1100. Figure 13 illustrates an external side elevation view of the attachment device of figure 12. Tank 1111 comprises a drain tap 1300 mounted at rear portion 1134. Drain tap 1300 comprises a removable cap 1301 which may be removed to allow liquid to be drained from tap 1111. Tank 1111 is secured to housing body 1132 via a flange 1303 extending from tank 1111 and a flange 1304 extending from housing body 1132. The bayonet fittings 1118 are secured in position within flanges 1303 and 1304. Tank 1111 may be releasably attached to housing body 1132 by a user activating a release button 1302.

In use, a user grasps the attachment device 1100 with one hand such that the attachment device including tank 1111 can be maneuvered and held by one hand of the user via a handgrip region 1200 formed at housing body 1132. With the flexible hose 1201 from the vacuum cleaner (not shown) attached to device 1100 at end 1128 and the vacuum motor activated the primary suction airflow created by the vacuum cleaner is capable of flowing through the attachment device. Air is drawn in to the device 1100 at inlet nozzle 1101 to flow through U- bend 1102, hosing 1107, tank 1111 and, apertures 1116 within valve 1113. The suction airflow path continues through hosing 1117 and cyclonic airflow chamber 1121 via inlets 1120. The airflow stream then passes through filter 1124 through chamber outlet 1126 and through the secondary filter (not shown) located about outlet 1126. The airflow stream then continues through hosing 1201 towards the vacuum motor.

As the inlet nozzle 1101 is brought into contact with liquid, the liquid is drawn into the device and is deposited within storage tank 1111. Any remaining liquid droplets present within the airflow stream exiting tank 1111 are separated from the airflow stream within the cyclonic airflow chamber 1122. That is, as the liquid droplets follow the cyclonic airflow path within chamber 1122 they are thrown outwardly to contact the internal chamber walls and the deposited liquid is then fed into channels 1131 to drain into tank 1111. Any remaining, very fine liquid droplets within the airflow stream emerging from chamber 1122 via outlet 1126 are removed and separated by the material- type secondary filter (not shown).

The cyclonic airflow within chamber 1122 is created by directing the emergent airflow from hosing 1117 onto the internal chamber walls via cyclone inlets 1120 as with conventional cyclonic vacuum cleaners.

When the liquid level within tank 1111 exceeds a predetermined volume it forces float 1114 to travel within housing 1135 whereby apertures 1116 are blocked by float 1114 terminating the airflow through the device. Additionally, if the attachment device is inverted, ball-bearing 1123 rolls within filter 1124 to block chamber outlet 1126 so as to terminate the airflow through the device.

Accordingly, the present attachment device comprises at least five features to prevent collected liquid from passing downstream of the attachment device to the vacuum motor these include:

(i) storage tank 1111 ;

(ii) float valve 1113;

(iii) cyclonic airflow chamber 1121 ;

(iv) ball-bearing 1123; and

(v) secondary filter (not shown) positioned at chamber outlet 1126

Filter 1124 may alternatively comprise a mesh or perforations-type filter. The filter positioned about outlet 1126 may comprise a Goretex™, paper, felt or material-type filter.

Claims

Claims:

1. A handheld attachment device for a vacuum cleaner, said device comprising:

means to attach said device to said vacuum cleaner whereby a primary suction airflow created by said vacuum cleaner is capable of flowing through a region of said device;

an inlet nozzle configured to allow a fluid to be drawn into said device by said suction airflow;

a liquid storage tank configured to store liquid drawn into said device by said suction airflow; and

separation means configured to separate said liquid from said airflow within said device so as to prevent said liquid from passing from said device to said vacuum cleaner.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1 wherein said separation means comprises a cyclonic airflow chamber positioned in the airflow path between said inlet nozzle and said means to attach said device to said vacuum cleaner wherein said chamber is configured such that as said airflow passes through said chamber said airflow is directed to create a cyclonic airflow path within said chamber.

3. The device as claimed in claim 2 comprising cyclone inlets configured to direct said suction airflow onto the internal walls of said chamber so as to create said cyclonic airflow.

4. The device as claimed in claims 2 or 3 further comprising a primary filter positioned within said chamber, said filter positioned in airflow communication with an outlet of said chamber wherein said suction airflow is capable of passing downstream of said chamber via said filter and said chamber outlet, said filter being configured to inhibit liquid within said suction airflow passing downstream of said chamber.

5. The device as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4 further comprising channel means positioned in fluid communication between said chamber and said storage tank, said channel means configured to channel liquid deposited within said chamber by said cyclonic airflow to said storage tank.

6. The device as claimed in claims 4 or 5 further comprising a secondary filter positioned at least partially downstream of said chamber, said secondary filter configured to inhibit liquid within said suction airflow passing downstream of said chamber.

7. The device as claimed in claims 4 or 6 further comprising a ballbearing moveably housed within said primary filter, said ball-bearing configured to roll within said filter to contact said chamber outlet to prevent said suction airflow and said liquid from passing downstream of said chamber in response to said device being inverted or partially inverted.

8. The device as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising at least one U-bend hose portion positioned in airflow communication between said inlet nozzle and said storage tank.

9. The device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said storage tank comprises baffle means positioned internally within said storage tank and configured to inhibit the flow of liquid between a front and a rear portion of said storage tank.

10. The device as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising at least one bleed valve configured to allow air to be bled into said device.

11. The device as claimed in claim 10 wherein said device comprises a housing body extending between said inlet nozzle and said means to attach said device to said vacuum cleaner wherein said at least one bleed valve comprises at least one aperture positioned at said housing body.

12. The device as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a float-type valve positioned within said storage tank, said valve configured to prevent said storage tank overfilling with liquid by terminating said suction airflow through said storage tank in response to liquid within said region of said device contacting said valve.

13. The device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said storage tank comprises a substantially planar external base.

14. The device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said storage tank comprises at least one drain tap.

15. The device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said storage tank is releasably attachable to said device.

16. The device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein at least a portion of a wall of said storage tank is transparent, partially transparent or transparent/translucent.

17. The device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said inlet nozzle is releasably attachable to said device.

18. The device as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising means to allow a user to grasp and hold said device in one hand.

19. The device as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a second liquid storage tank.

20. The device as claimed in claim 19 further comprising a dispensing nozzle connected to said second liquid storage tank whereby liquid within said second liquid storage tank may be dispensed from said device via said dispensing nozzle.

21. A vacuum cleaner comprising an attachment device as claimed in any preceding claim.

22. An attachment device for a vacuum cleaner, said device comprising:

means to attach said device to a vacuum cleaner whereby a suction airflow created by said vacuum cleaner is capable of flowing through a region of said device;

an inlet nozzle configured to allow a fluid to be drawn into said device by said suction airflow; and

a cyclonic airflow separation chamber positioned in the airflow path between said inlet nozzle and said means to attach said device to said vacuum cleaner;

wherein as said airflow enters said separation chamber a cyclonic airflow path is created wherein liquid within said suction airflow path is deposited within said separation chamber and prevented from passing downstream of said chamber to said vacuum cleaner.

23. The device as claimed in claim 22 wherein said separation chamber comprises cyclone inlets configured to direct said suction airflow onto the internal walls of said chamber to create said cyclonic airflow.

24. The device as claimed in claims 22 or 23 further comprising a primary filter positioned within said chamber, said filter positioned in airflow communication with an outlet of said chamber wherein said suction airflow is capable of passing downstream of said chamber via said filter and said chamber outlet, said filter being configured to inhibit liquid within said suction airflow passing downstream of said chamber.

25. The device as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 24 further comprising a secondary filter positioned at least partially downstream of said chamber, said secondary filter configured to inhibit liquid within said suction airflow passing downstream of said chamber.

26. The device as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 25 further comprising a liquid storage tank configured to store liquid drawn into said device by said suction airflow.

27. The device as claimed in claim 26 further comprising a second liquid storage tank and a dispensing nozzle connected to said second liquid storage tank whereby liquid within said tank may be dispensed from the said device via said dispensing nozzle.

28. An attachment device for a vacuum cleaner, said device comprising:

means to attach said device to said vacuum cleaner whereby a primary suction airflow created by said vacuum cleaner is capable of flowing through a region of said device; a first fan rotatably mounted at said region of said device capable of being exposed to said primary suction airflow;

a second fan rotatably mounted at said device outside of said region exposed to said primary suction airflow;

means to couple rotation of said first and second fans wherein rotation of said first fan by the primary suction airflow created by said vacuum cleaner drives rotation of said second fan to create a secondary suction airflow; and

a primary partition configured to physically separate said primary suction airflow from said secondary suction airflow and prevent a fluid from passing from a region of said device occupied by said second fan to said region of said device occupied by said first fan.

29. The device as claimed in claim 28 further comprising an additional partition positioned between said primary partition and said second fan, said additional partition comprising at least one aperture through which said secondary suction airflow is capable of flowing.

30. The device as claimed in claim 28 wherein said first fan comprises a turbo fan and a turbo air intake funnel.

31. The device as claimed in claim 30 wherein said turbo air intake funnel decreases in cross section from a first end positioned at said air inlet to a second end of said funnel.