U.S. patent application number 16/445514 was filed with the patent office on 2020-01-02 for vacuum cleaner.
The applicant listed for this patent is MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Scott T. Moeller.
Application Number | 20200000300 16/445514 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 68840644 |
Filed Date | 2020-01-02 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200000300 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Moeller; Scott T. |
January 2, 2020 |
VACUUM CLEANER
Abstract
A vacuum cleaner station is configured to operate with first and
second power tools, each power tool having an electrical plug. The
vacuum cleaner station includes a housing, a suction source, a
first hose port, a first valve, a first hose, a second hose port, a
second valve, a second hose, a debris collection chamber, a battery
receptacle, a battery pack receivable in the battery receptacle, a
first electrical outlet on the housing, a first sensor configured
to detect when the first power tool is receiving power from the
battery pack, a second electrical outlet on the housing, a second
sensor configured to detect when the second power tool is receiving
power from the battery pack, and a controller electrically coupled
to the suction source, the first sensor, the second sensor, the
first valve, and the second valve.
Inventors: |
Moeller; Scott T.;
(Richfield, WI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORPORATION |
Brookfield |
WI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
68840644 |
Appl. No.: |
16/445514 |
Filed: |
June 19, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62764878 |
Aug 16, 2018 |
|
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62687090 |
Jun 19, 2018 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 5/36 20130101; A47L
9/248 20130101; A47L 7/0095 20130101; A47L 5/24 20130101; A47L
9/0036 20130101; A47L 9/2857 20130101; A47L 9/009 20130101; A47L
9/322 20130101; A47L 9/2884 20130101; A47L 9/1409 20130101; A47L
5/225 20130101; A47L 9/122 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47L 7/00 20060101
A47L007/00 |
Claims
1. A vacuum cleaner station configured to operate with first and
second power tools, each power tool having an electrical plug, the
vacuum cleaner station comprising: a housing; a suction source
supported by the housing; a first hose port on the housing and
fluidly coupled to the suction source; a first valve moveable
between an open position, in which the first hose port is open, and
a closed position, in which the first hose port is blocked; a first
hose selectively connected to the first hose port, the first hose
configured to extend to the first power tool, such that when the
first valve is in the open position and the suction source is
actuated, debris generated during operation of the first power tool
can be suctioned through the first hose into the first hose port; a
second hose port on the housing and fluidly coupled to the suction
source; a second valve moveable between an open position, in which
the second hose port is open, and a closed position, in which the
second hose port is blocked; a second hose selectively connected to
the second hose port, the second hose configured to extend to the
second power tool, such that when the second valve is in the open
position and the suction source is actuated, debris generated
during operation of the second power tool can be suctioned through
the second hose into the second hose port; a debris collection
chamber configured to receive debris suctioned by the suction
source through the first hose port and the second hose port; a
battery receptacle on the housing; a battery pack receivable in the
battery receptacle, such that when the battery pack is received in
the battery receptacle, the battery pack provides power to the
suction source; a first electrical outlet on the housing, the first
electrical outlet configured to receive the electrical plug of the
first power tool, such that when the electrical plug of the first
power tool is received in the first electrical outlet, the battery
pack is received in the battery receptacle, and the first power
tool is turned on, the battery pack provides power to the first
power tool; a first sensor configured to detect when the first
power tool is receiving power from the battery pack; a second
electrical outlet on the housing, the second electrical outlet
configured to receive the electrical plug of the second power tool,
such that when the electrical plug of the second power tool is
received in the second electrical outlet, the battery pack is
received in the battery receptacle, and the second power tool is
turned on, the battery pack provides power to the second power
tool; a second sensor configured to detect when the second power
tool is receiving power from the battery pack; and a controller
electrically coupled to the suction source, the first sensor, the
second sensor, the first valve, and the second valve, wherein in
response to the first sensor detecting that the first power tool is
receiving power from the battery pack, the controller is configured
to move the first valve to the open position and actuate the
suction source to suction debris through the first hose, the first
hose port and into the debris collection chamber, and wherein in
response to the second sensor detecting that the second power tool
is receiving power from the battery pack, the controller is
configured to move the second valve to the open position and
actuate the suction source to suction debris through the second
hose, the second hose port and into the debris collection
chamber.
2. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 1, wherein the vacuum
cleaner station is in wireless communication with the first and
second power tools.
3. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 1, further comprising a
cyclonic separator arranged fluidly between the first hose port and
the debris collection chamber, and arranged fluidly between the
second hose port and the debris collection chamber.
4. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 1, wherein the battery
receptacle is a first battery receptacle and the battery pack is a
first battery pack, wherein the vacuum cleaner station further
comprises a second battery receptacle on the housing and a second
battery pack receivable in the second battery receptacle, and
wherein when the second battery pack is received in the second
battery receptacle, the second battery pack is configured to
provide power to the suction source, the first electrical outlet
and the second electrical outlet.
5. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 1, further comprising a
plurality of wheels, a handle, and a storage compartment.
6. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 5, further comprising a
first indicator switchable between a first state that indicates the
first power tool is receiving power from the battery pack and a
second state that indicates the first power tool is not receiving
power from the battery pack, the second state being different from
the first state, wherein in response to the first sensor detecting
that the first power tool is receiving power from the battery pack,
the controller is configured to set the first indicator to the
first state.
7. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 6, further comprising a
second indicator switchable between a first state that indicates
the second power tool is receiving power from the battery pack and
a second state that indicates the second power tool is not
receiving power from the battery pack, the second state being
different from the first state, wherein in response to the second
sensor detecting that the second power tool is receiving power from
the battery pack, the controller is configured to set the second
indicator to the first state.
8. A vacuum cleaner station configured to operate with a first
power tool configured to send a wireless first tool signal when the
first power tool is operating and a second power tool configured to
send a wireless second tool signal when the second power tool is
operating, the vacuum cleaner station comprising: a housing; a
suction source supported by the housing; a first hose port on the
housing and fluidly coupled to the suction source; a first valve
moveable between an open position, in which the first hose port is
open, and a closed position, in which the first hose port is
blocked; a first hose selectively connected to the first hose port,
the first hose configured to extend to the first power tool, such
that when the first valve is in the open position and the suction
source is actuated, debris generated during operation of the first
power tool can be suctioned through the first hose into the first
hose port; a second hose port on the housing and fluidly coupled to
the suction source; a second valve moveable between an open
position, in which the second hose port is open, and a closed
position, in which the second hose port is blocked; a second hose
selectively connected to the second hose port, the second hose
configured to extend to the second power tool, such that when the
second valve is in the open position and the suction source is
actuated, debris generated during operation of the second power
tool can be suctioned through the second hose into the second hose
port; a debris collection chamber configured to receive debris
suctioned by the suction source through the first hose port and the
second hose port; a battery receptacle on the housing; a battery
pack receivable in the battery receptacle, such that when the
battery pack is received in the battery receptacle, the battery
pack provides power to the suction source; a wireless communication
unit configured to receive the wireless first tool signal from the
first power tool when the first power tool is operating and
configured to receive the wireless second tool signal from the
second power tool when the second power tool is operating; and a
controller electrically coupled to the suction source, the wireless
communication unit, the first valve, and the second valve, wherein
in response to the wireless communication unit receiving the
wireless first tool signal, the controller is configured to move
the first valve to the open position and actuate the suction source
to suction debris through the first hose, the first hose port and
into the debris collection chamber, and wherein in response to the
wireless communication unit receiving the wireless second tool
signal, the controller is configured to move the second valve to
the open position and actuate the suction source to suction debris
through the second hose, the second hose port and into the debris
collection chamber.
9. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 8, wherein the wireless
communication unit is a transceiver.
10. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 8, wherein the wireless
communication unit is a receiver.
11. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 8, further comprising a
first indicator that is switchable between a first state that
indicates the wireless first tool signal is being received by the
wireless communication unit, and a second state that indicates the
wireless first tool signal is not being received by the wireless
communication unit, the second state being different from the first
state.
12. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 11, further comprising a
second indicator that is switchable between a first state that
indicates the wireless second tool signal is being received by the
wireless communication unit, and a second state that indicates the
wireless second tool signal is not being received by the wireless
communication unit, the second state being different from the first
state.
13. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 8, further comprising a
cyclonic separator arranged fluidly between the first hose port and
the debris collection chamber, and arranged fluidly between the
second hose port and the debris collection chamber.
14. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 8, wherein the battery
receptacle is a first battery receptacle and the battery pack is a
first battery pack, wherein the vacuum cleaner station further
comprises a second battery receptacle on the housing and a second
battery pack receivable in the second battery receptacle, and
wherein when the second battery pack is received in the second
battery receptacle, the second battery pack is configured to
provide power to the suction source.
15. A vacuum cleaner station configured to operate with a power
tool that is configured to send a wireless tool signal when the
power tool is operating, the vacuum cleaner station comprising: a
housing; a suction source supported by the housing; a hose port on
the housing and fluidly coupled to the suction source; a hose
selectively connected to the hose port, the hose configured to
extend to the power tool, such that debris generated during
operation of the power tool can be suctioned through the hose into
the hose port; a debris collection chamber configured to receive
debris suctioned by the suction source through the hose port; a
battery receptacle on the housing; a battery pack receivable in the
battery receptacle, such that when the battery pack is received in
the battery receptacle, the battery pack provides power to the
suction source; a wireless communication unit configured to receive
the wireless tool signal from the power tool when the first power
tool is operating; and a controller electrically coupled to the
suction source and the wireless communication unit, wherein in
response to the wireless communication unit receiving the wireless
first tool signal, the controller is configured actuate the suction
source to suction debris through the hose, the hose port and into
the debris collection chamber.
16. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 15, wherein the wireless
communication unit is a transceiver.
17. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 15, wherein the wireless
communication unit is a receiver.
18. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 15, further comprising a
cyclonic separator arranged fluidly between the hose port and the
debris collection chamber.
19. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 15, wherein the battery
receptacle is a first battery receptacle and the battery pack is a
first battery pack, wherein the vacuum cleaner station further
comprises a second battery receptacle on the housing and a second
battery pack receivable in the second battery receptacle, and
wherein when the second battery pack is received in the second
battery receptacle, the second battery pack is configured to
provide power to the suction source.
20. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 15, further comprising a
plurality of wheels, a handle, and a storage compartment.
21. A vacuum cleaner station configured to operate with a power
tool having an electrical plug, the vacuum cleaner station
comprising: a housing; a suction source supported by the housing; a
hose port on the housing and fluidly coupled to the suction source;
a hose selectively connected to the hose port, the hose configured
to extend to the power tool, such that debris generated during
operation of the power tool can be suctioned through the hose into
the hose port; a debris collection chamber configured to receive
debris suctioned by the suction source through the hose port; a
battery receptacle on the housing; a battery pack receivable in the
battery receptacle, such that when the battery pack is received in
the battery receptacle, the battery pack provides power to the
suction source; an electrical outlet on the housing, the electrical
outlet configured to receive the electrical plug of the power tool,
such that when the electrical plug of the power tool is received in
the electrical outlet and the battery pack is received in the
battery receptacle, the battery pack is configured to provide power
to the power tool; a sensor configured to detect when the power
tool is receiving power from the battery pack; and a controller
electrically coupled to the suction source and the sensor, wherein
in response to the sensor detecting that the power tool is
receiving power from the battery pack, the controller is configured
actuate the suction source to suction debris through the hose, the
hose port and into the debris collection chamber.
22. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 21, wherein the vacuum
cleaner station is in wireless communication with the power
tool.
23. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 21, further comprising a
cyclonic separator arranged fluidly between the hose port and the
debris collection chamber.
24. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 21, wherein the battery
receptacle is a first battery receptacle and the battery pack is a
first battery pack, wherein the vacuum cleaner station further
comprises a second battery receptacle on the housing and a second
battery pack receivable in the second battery receptacle, and
wherein when the second battery pack is received in the second
battery receptacle, the second battery pack is configured to
provide power to the suction source, the first electrical outlet
and the second electrical outlet.
25. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 21, further a valve
moveable between an open position, in which the hose port is open,
and a closed position, in which the hose port is blocked, and
wherein in response to the sensor detecting that the power tool is
receiving power from the battery pack, the controller is configured
to move the valve to the open position.
26. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 21, further an indicator
configured to indicate when the power tool is receiving power from
the battery pack.
27. The vacuum cleaner of claim 26, wherein the indicator is
switchable between a first state that indicates the power tool is
receiving power from the battery pack and a second state that
indicates the power tool is not receiving power from the battery
pack, the second state being different from the first state,
wherein in response to the sensor detecting that the power tool is
receiving power from the battery pack, the controller is configured
to set the indicator to the first state.
28. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 21, further comprising: a
storage compartment in the housing and a lid to selectively open
and close the storage compartment; and a drawer that is selectively
removable from the housing, the drawer containing the debris
collection chamber.
29. A vacuum cleaner station configured to operate with first and
second power tools, each power tool having an electrical plug, the
vacuum cleaner station comprising: a housing; a suction source
supported by the housing; a first hose port on the housing and
fluidly coupled to the suction source; a first hose selectively
connected to the first hose port, the first hose configured to
extend to the first power tool, such that debris generated during
operation of the first power tool can be suctioned through the
first hose into the first hose port; a second hose port on the
housing and fluidly coupled to the suction source; a second hose
selectively connected to the second hose port, the second hose
configured to extend to the second power tool, such that debris
generated during operation of the second power tool can be
suctioned through the second hose into the second hose port; a
debris collection chamber configured to receive debris suctioned by
the suction source through the first hose port and the second hose
port; a battery receptacle on the housing; a battery pack
receivable in the battery receptacle, such that when the battery
pack is received in the battery receptacle, the battery pack
provides power to the suction source; a first electrical outlet on
the housing, the first electrical outlet configured to receive the
electrical plug of the first power tool, such that when the
electrical plug of the first power tool is received in the first
electrical outlet and the battery pack is received in the battery
receptacle, the battery pack is configured to provide power to the
first power tool; and a second electrical outlet on the housing,
the second electrical outlet configured to receive the electrical
plug of the second power tool, such that when the electrical plug
of the second power tool is received in the second electrical
outlet and the battery pack is received in the battery receptacle,
the battery pack is configured to provide power to the second power
tool.
30. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 29, wherein the vacuum
cleaner station is in wireless communication with the power
tool.
31. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 29, further comprising a
plurality of wheels and a telescoping handle.
32. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 31, further comprising a
storage compartment in the housing and a lid to selectively open
and close the storage compartment.
33. The vacuum cleaner station of claim 32, further comprising a
drawer that is selectively removable from the housing, the drawer
containing the debris collection chamber.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to co-pending U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/687,090 filed on Jun. 19,
2018, and co-pending Provisional Patent Application No. 62/764,878
filed on Aug. 16, 2018, and the entire contents of both Provisional
Applications are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to vacuum cleaners, and more
particularly to portable vacuum-out arrangements.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] On job sites, operators use vacuum cleaners to clean up dust
and debris. Operators also use AC power sources to power cutting,
sawing, and drilling tools.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention provides, in one aspect, a vacuum
cleaner station configured to operate with first and second power
tools, each power tool having an electrical plug. The vacuum
cleaner station comprises a housing, a suction source supported by
the housing, a first hose port on the housing and fluidly coupled
to the suction source, and a first valve moveable between an open
position, in which the first hose port is open, and a closed
position, in which the first hose port is blocked. The vacuum
cleaner station further comprises a first hose selectively
connected to the first hose port. The first hose is configured to
extend to the first power tool, such that when the first valve is
in the open position and the suction source is actuated, debris
generated during operation of the first power tool can be suctioned
through the first hose into the first hose port. The vacuum cleaner
station further comprises a second hose port on the housing and
fluidly coupled to the suction source and a second valve moveable
between an open position, in which the second hose port is open,
and a closed position, in which the second hose port is blocked.
The vacuum cleaner station further comprises a second hose
selectively connected to the second hose port, the second hose
configured to extend to the second power tool, such that when the
second valve is in the open position and the suction source is
actuated, debris generated during operation of the second power
tool can be suctioned through the second hose into the second hose
port. The vacuum cleaner station further comprises a debris
collection chamber configured to receive debris suctioned by the
suction source through the first hose port and the second hose
port, a battery receptacle on the housing, and a battery pack
receivable in the battery receptacle, such that when the battery
pack is received in the battery receptacle, the battery pack
provides power to the suction source. The vacuum cleaner station
further comprises a first electrical outlet on the housing. The
first electrical outlet is configured to receive the electrical
plug of the first power tool, such that when the electrical plug of
the first power tool is received in the first electrical outlet,
the battery pack is received in the battery receptacle, and the
first power tool is turned on, the battery pack provides power to
the first power tool. The vacuum cleaner station further comprises
a first sensor configured to detect when the first power tool is
receiving power from the battery pack and a second electrical
outlet on the housing. The second electrical outlet is configured
to receive the electrical plug of the second power tool, such that
when the electrical plug of the second power tool is received in
the second electrical outlet, the battery pack is received in the
battery receptacle, and the second power tool is turned on, the
battery pack provides power to the second power tool. The vacuum
cleaner station further comprises a second sensor configured to
detect when the second power tool is receiving power from the
battery pack, and a controller electrically coupled to the suction
source, the first sensor, the second sensor, the first valve, and
the second valve. In response to the first sensor detecting that
the first power tool is receiving power from the battery pack, the
controller is configured to move the first valve to the open
position and actuate the suction source to suction debris through
the first hose, the first hose port and into the debris collection
chamber. In response to the second sensor detecting that the second
power tool is receiving power from the battery pack, the controller
is configured to move the second valve to the open position and
actuate the suction source to suction debris through the second
hose, the second hose port and into the debris collection
chamber.
[0005] The present invention provides, in another aspect, a vacuum
cleaner station configured to operate with a first power tool
configured to send a wireless first tool signal when the first
power tool is operating and a second power tool configured to send
a wireless second tool signal when the second power tool is
operating. The vacuum cleaner station comprises a housing, a
suction source supported by the housing, a first hose port on the
housing and fluidly coupled to the suction source, and a first
valve moveable between an open position, in which the first hose
port is open, and a closed position, in which the first hose port
is blocked. The vacuum cleaner station further comprises a first
hose selectively connected to the first hose port. The first hose
is configured to extend to the first power tool, such that when the
first valve is in the open position and the suction source is
actuated, debris generated during operation of the first power tool
can be suctioned through the first hose into the first hose port.
The vacuum cleaner station further comprises a second hose port on
the housing and fluidly coupled to the suction source, and a second
valve moveable between an open position, in which the second hose
port is open, and a closed position, in which the second hose port
is blocked. The vacuum cleaner station further comprises a second
hose selectively connected to the second hose port. The second hose
is configured to extend to the second power tool, such that when
the second valve is in the open position and the suction source is
actuated, debris generated during operation of the second power
tool can be suctioned through the second hose into the second hose
port. The vacuum cleaner station further comprises a debris
collection chamber configured to receive debris suctioned by the
suction source through the first hose port and the second hose
port, a battery receptacle on the housing, and a battery pack
receivable in the battery receptacle, such that when the battery
pack is received in the battery receptacle, the battery pack
provides power to the suction source. The vacuum cleaner station
further comprises a wireless communication unit configured to
receive the wireless first tool signal from the first power tool
when the first power tool is operating and configured to receive
the wireless second tool signal from the second power tool when the
second power tool is operating. The vacuum cleaner station further
comprises a controller electrically coupled to the suction source,
the wireless communication unit, the first valve, and the second
valve. In response to the wireless communication unit receiving the
wireless first tool signal, the controller is configured to move
the first valve to the open position and actuate the suction source
to suction debris through the first hose, the first hose port and
into the debris collection chamber. In response to the wireless
communication unit receiving the wireless second tool signal, the
controller is configured to move the second valve to the open
position and actuate the suction source to suction debris through
the second hose, the second hose port and into the debris
collection chamber.
[0006] The present invention provides, in yet another aspect, a
vacuum cleaner station configured to operate with a power tool that
is configured to send a wireless tool signal when the power tool is
operating. The vacuum cleaner station comprises a housing, a
suction source supported by the housing, a hose port on the housing
and fluidly coupled to the suction source, and a hose selectively
connected to the hose port. The hose is configured to extend to the
power tool, such that debris generated during operation of the
power tool can be suctioned through the hose into the hose port.
The vacuum cleaner station further comprises a debris collection
chamber configured to receive debris suctioned by the suction
source through the hose port, a battery receptacle on the housing,
and a battery pack receivable in the battery receptacle, such that
when the battery pack is received in the battery receptacle, the
battery pack provides power to the suction source. The vacuum
cleaner station further comprises a wireless communication unit
configured to receive the wireless tool signal from the power tool
when the first power tool is operating, and a controller
electrically coupled to the suction source and the wireless
communication unit. In response to the wireless communication unit
receiving the wireless first tool signal, the controller is
configured actuate the suction source to suction debris through the
hose, the hose port and into the debris collection chamber.
[0007] The present invention provides, in yet another aspect, a
vacuum cleaner station configured to operate with a power tool
having an electrical plug. The vacuum cleaner station comprises a
housing, a suction source supported by the housing, a hose port on
the housing and fluidly coupled to the suction source, and a hose
selectively connected to the hose port. The hose is configured to
extend to the power tool, such that debris generated during
operation of the power tool can be suctioned through the hose into
the hose port. The vacuum cleaner station further comprises a
debris collection chamber configured to receive debris suctioned by
the suction source through the hose port, a battery receptacle on
the housing, and a battery pack receivable in the battery
receptacle, such that when the battery pack is received in the
battery receptacle, the battery pack provides power to the suction
source. The vacuum cleaner station further comprises an electrical
outlet on the housing. The electrical outlet is configured to
receive the electrical plug of the power tool, such that when the
electrical plug of the power tool is received in the electrical
outlet and the battery pack is received in the battery receptacle,
the battery pack is configured to provide power to the power tool.
The vacuum cleaner station further comprises a sensor configured to
detect when the power tool is receiving power from the battery pack
and a controller electrically coupled to the suction source and the
sensor. In response to the sensor detecting that the power tool is
receiving power from the battery pack, the controller is configured
actuate the suction source to suction debris through the hose, the
hose port and into the debris collection chamber.
[0008] The present invention provides, in yet another aspect, a
vacuum cleaner station cleaner station configured to operate with
first and second power tools, each power tool having an electrical
plug. The vacuum cleaner station comprises a housing, a suction
source supported by the housing, a first hose port on the housing
and fluidly coupled to the suction source, and a first hose
selectively connected to the first hose port. The first hose is
configured to extend to the first power tool, such that debris
generated during operation of the first power tool can be suctioned
through the first hose into the first hose port. The vacuum cleaner
station further comprises a second hose port on the housing and
fluidly coupled to the suction source and a second hose selectively
connected to the second hose port. The second hose is configured to
extend to the second power tool, such that debris generated during
operation of the second power tool can be suctioned through the
second hose into the second hose port. The vacuum cleaner station
further comprises a debris collection chamber configured to receive
debris suctioned by the suction source through the first hose port
and the second hose port, a battery receptacle on the housing, and
a battery pack receivable in the battery receptacle, such that when
the battery pack is received in the battery receptacle, the battery
pack provides power to the suction source. The vacuum cleaner
station further comprises a first electrical outlet on the housing.
The first electrical outlet is configured to receive the electrical
plug of the first power tool, such that when the electrical plug of
the first power tool is received in the first electrical outlet and
the battery pack is received in the battery receptacle, the battery
pack is configured to provide power to the first power tool. The
vacuum cleaner station further comprises a second electrical outlet
on the housing. The second electrical outlet is configured to
receive the electrical plug of the second power tool, such that
when the electrical plug of the second power tool is received in
the second electrical outlet and the battery pack is received in
the battery receptacle, the battery pack is configured to provide
power to the second power tool.
[0009] The present invention provides, in yet another aspect, a
vacuum cleaner comprising a first portion including a nozzle
defining a first axis and a debris collection chamber defining a
second axis. The vacuum cleaner further comprises a second portion
including a handle, a motor defining a third axis, a fan driven by
the motor, a filter defining a fourth axis, and a battery for
providing power to the motor. The first portion is removably
coupled to the second portion, and the first, second, third and
fourth axes are coaxial when the first portion is coupled to the
second portion.
[0010] The present invention provides, in yet another aspect, a
vacuum cleaner comprising a nozzle, a debris collection chamber, a
handle, a motor defining a motor axis, a fan driven by the motor, a
filter, and a battery pack for providing power to the motor. The
motor is arranged in between the handle and the battery pack along
a first axis that is perpendicular to the motor axis.
[0011] The present invention provides, in yet another aspect, a
vacuum cleaner assembly comprising a first vacuum cleaner including
a housing having a plurality of wheels, a debris collection
chamber, a suction source arranged in the housing, and a power cord
configured to be coupled to an AC power source such that when the
power cord is coupled to the AC power source, the power cord can
transmit power to the suction source. The first vacuum cleaner
further includes a lid removably coupled to the housing. The lid
includes a handle and a hose port that is fluidly coupled to the
suction source when the lid is coupled to the housing. The vacuum
cleaner assembly further comprises a second vacuum cleaner
configured to be docked on the first vacuum cleaner and to receive
a charge therefrom.
[0012] Other features and aspects of the invention will become
apparent by consideration of the following detailed description and
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a stick station with a
vacuum cleaner docked therein.
[0014] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the stick station of
FIG. 1A, with the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 1A being inserted
therein.
[0015] FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of the stick station of
FIG. 1A, with the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 1A docked therein.
[0016] FIG. 1D is a cross-sectional view of the stick station of
FIG. 1A, with the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 1A emptying debris
therein.
[0017] FIG. 2A is a plan view of a vacuum cleaner according to
another embodiment of the invention, with a nose in a first
position.
[0018] FIG. 2B is a plan view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 2A,
with the nose in a second position.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention, coupled to a power
base.
[0021] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner of 4A
removed from the power base.
[0022] FIG. 5A is perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to
another embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG.
5A.
[0024] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0025] FIG. 5D is perspective view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG.
5C.
[0026] FIG. 5E is a cross-sectional view of the vacuum cleaner of
FIG. 5A showing different positions of a wing of the vacuum
cleaner.
[0027] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0028] FIG. 6B is a plan view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 6A.
[0029] FIG. 6C is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG.
6A.
[0030] FIG. 7 is a plan view of a vacuum cleaner according to
another embodiment of the invention.
[0031] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG.
8A.
[0033] FIG. 8C is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG.
8A being stacked among a plurality of tool boxes.
[0034] FIG. 9A is a plan view of a vacuum cleaner according to
another embodiment of the invention, being separated from a
holster.
[0035] FIG. 9B is a plan view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 9A
opening a door to empty debris.
[0036] FIG. 9C is a plan view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 9A
coupled to the holster.
[0037] FIG. 10A is a plan view of a vacuum cleaner according to
another embodiment of the invention, separated from a rotary power
tool.
[0038] FIG. 10B is a plan view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 10A
coupled to the rotary power tool.
[0039] FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0040] FIG. 11B is an enlarged perspective view of a hose of the
vacuum cleaner of FIG. 11A.
[0041] FIG. 12A is a plan view of a vacuum cleaner according to
another embodiment of the invention.
[0042] FIG. 12 B is a plan view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 12A,
with a first portion separated from a handle portion.
[0043] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0044] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG.
13, with two power tools coupled thereto.
[0045] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention, with a hand held vacuum
cleaner docked therein.
[0046] FIG. 16 is a plan view of the vacuum cleaner of the vacuum
cleaner of FIG. 15, with the hand held vacuum cleaner docked
therein.
[0047] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the hand held vacuum
cleaner of FIG. 15.
[0048] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0049] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0050] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0051] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG.
19 stacked upon two of the vacuum cleaners of FIG. 20.
[0052] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner of FIG.
18.
[0053] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0054] FIG. 24 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vacuum
cleaner of FIG. 22.
[0055] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0056] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner of claim
25 with two power tools coupled thereto.
[0057] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0058] FIG. 28 is an enlarged perspective view of the vacuum
cleaner of claim 27, with portions removed.
[0059] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0060] 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. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and
terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and
should not be regarded as limiting.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0061] As shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, a vacuum cleaner 10 includes a body
14, a suction nozzle 18, a debris collection chamber 22, a handle
26, and a trigger 28 for actuating a suction motor (not shown) that
is powered by a power source such as a battery or battery pack 32.
The vacuum cleaner 10 is insertable into a station 30 having a dust
bin 34. When the vacuum cleaner 10 is inserted into the station 30,
the battery or battery pack 32 can be recharged via the station 30
(FIG. 1C). Also, while the vacuum cleaner 10 is inserted in the
station 30, a button 38 on the station 30 is depressible to cause
the contents of the debris collection chamber 22 of the vacuum
cleaner 10 to empty into the dust bin 34 of the station 30 (FIG.
1D). The station 30 includes a power cord 40 for plugging into an
AC electrical outlet 41.
[0062] FIG. 17 illustrates a vacuum cleaner 410 that is
substantially similar to the vacuum cleaner 10 FIGS. 1A-1D, with
like parts having the same annotation plus "400". Similarly, FIGS.
15 and 16 illustrate a vacuum cleaner 430 that is substantially
identical to the station 30 of FIG. 1A-1D, with like parts having
the same annotation plus "400". However, unlike station 30, vacuum
cleaner 430 is a vacuum cleaner. Like the embodiment shown in FIGS.
1A-1D, the vacuum cleaner 410 is insertable into the vacuum cleaner
430 having a dust bin 434. When the vacuum cleaner 410 is inserted
into the vacuum cleaner 430, the battery or battery pack 432 can be
recharged via the vacuum cleaner 430 (FIGS. 15 and 16), via the
power cord 440. Also, while the vacuum cleaner 410 is inserted in
the vacuum cleaner 430, a button 438 on the vacuum cleaner 430 is
depressible to cause the contents of the debris collection chamber
422 of the vacuum cleaner 410 to empty into the dust bin 434 of the
vacuum cleaner 430.
[0063] In addition, the vacuum cleaner 430 has several additional
features and differences, in comparison with the station 30, that
are explained below. The vacuum cleaner includes a lid 442 that is
separable from a body 444, to allow access to the dust bin 434 in
the body 444. The vacuum cleaner 430 includes a plurality of
latches 445 to secure the lid 442 to the body 444. The vacuum
cleaner 410 mounts the vacuum cleaner 430 through the lid 442. The
vacuum cleaner 430 also includes a suction source 446, such as a
motor-driven fan, that receives power via the power cord 440. The
suction source 446 is fluidly connected to a hose port 448 and the
dust bin 434, such that a hose can be coupled to the hose port 448,
and the suction source 446 can be run to suction material through
the hose port 446 and into the dust bin 434. Thus, unlike the
station 30, the vacuum cleaner 430 can be operated as an
independent canister vacuum cleaner. Further, the body 444 includes
a plurality of wheels 450, such as castor wheels, and the lid
includes a handle 454, making it easier for an operator to wheel
the vacuum cleaner 430 between different spots at a job site to
suction debris. However, when the smaller, cordless,
battery-powered vacuum cleaner 410 is needed to reach a tight
corner or spot that is inaccessible to vacuum cleaner 430, the
operator may decouple vacuum cleaner 410 from the vacuum cleaner
430.
[0064] As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, a vacuum cleaner 42 includes a
body 46, a suction nozzle 50, a debris collection chamber 54, a
handle 58, and a trigger 62 for actuating a suction motor (not
shown) that is powered by a power source such as a battery or
battery pack (not shown). The suction nozzle 50 includes a nose 66
with a first suction opening 70 and an extension 74 from body 46
that has a second suction opening 78. When the nose 66 is in a
first position (FIG. 2A), the nose 66 extends along an axis 80 that
is defined by the extension 74, and the second suction opening 78
is covered by the nose 66. Thus, when operated in the first
position, dirty air passes into the first suction opening 70,
through the nose 66, through the extension 74, and into the debris
collection chamber 54. When the nose is pivoted about a pivot joint
82 from the first position to a second position in which the nose
66 does not lie along the axis 80 defined by the extension 74 (FIG.
2B), operation of the vacuum cleaner 10 causes dirty air to enter
directly through the second suction opening 78, rather than passing
through first suction opening 70 and nose 66.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 3, a vacuum cleaner 86 includes a body 90,
a suction nozzle 94, a debris collection chamber (not shown), a
handle 96, and a trigger (not shown) for actuating a suction motor
(not shown) that is powered by a power source such as a battery or
battery pack (not shown). The handle is graspable with one hand 98
of an operator and the nozzle 94 is adept at cleaning small
messes.
[0066] As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, a vacuum cleaner 102 includes a
body 106, a suction nozzle 110, a debris collection chamber 114, a
handle 118, and a trigger 122 for actuating a suction motor (not
shown) that is powered by a power source such as a battery or
battery pack 124. The vacuum cleaner 102 is insertable into a
receptacle 126 of a powered base 130 for floor operations. The
powered base 130 includes a brushroll indicated at 132, wheels 134,
and a release actuator 138. In operation, as shown in FIG. 4A, the
suction nozzle 110 is inserted into the receptacle 126 and the
trigger 122 is depressed to operate the vacuum cleaner 102 and the
powered base 130. Specifically, air and debris is suctioned from
under powered base 130 and into the suction nozzle 110 before
entering the debris collection chamber 114. In some embodiments,
the power source of vacuum cleaner 102 may power the brushroll 132
of the powered base 130. In other embodiments, powered base 130 is
powered separately. When finished with floor operations, the
operator hits release actuator 138 to release the suction nozzle
110 from the receptacle 126, thus allowing the vacuum cleaner 102
to be used without powered base 130, as shown in FIG. 4B.
[0067] As shown in FIG. 5, a suction nozzle 142 for a vacuum
cleaner includes a wand portion 146 and one (FIGS. 5A and 5B) or
more (FIGS. 5C and 5D) wings 150 which glide along a surface during
cleaning. The one or more wings 150 communicate suctioned air to
wand portion 146 and can pivot about an axis 154 defined by the
wand portion 146, thus allowing wings to pivot about axis 154 when
striking obstacles during cleaning. In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 5C and 5D, the wings 150 are biased towards a neutral
position in which they are arranged along the same axis 158.
[0068] As shown in FIGS. 6A-6C, a vacuum cleaner 162 includes a
body handle 166, omnidirectional castors 170, and a telescoping
handle 174 allowing an operator to push the vacuum cleaner 162
around a floor.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 7, a vacuum cleaner 178 includes a body
182, a suction nozzle 186, a debris collection chamber 190, a
handle 194, and a trigger 198 for actuating a suction motor (not
shown) that is powered by a power source such as a battery or
battery pack 202. The debris collection chamber 190 is removable
from the body 182 of the vacuum cleaner 178.
[0070] As shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, a vacuum cleaner 206 has a body 210
with a shape of a tool box, a handle 214 and a port 218 for
attaching a hose 222 for a suction operation. Thus, the vacuum
cleaner 206 is stackable among a plurality of other tool boxes
226.
[0071] FIGS. 18 and 22 illustrates a vacuum cleaner 506 having a
housing 510 with a shape of a flat tool box, a handle 514 and a
hose port 518 for attaching a hose 522 for a suction operation. As
shown in FIGS. 18 and 22, the housing 510 has a length L1 and a
width W1. The hose port 518 can be arranged along different sides
of the vacuum cleaner 506, as shown by comparison between FIGS. 18
and 22. The vacuum cleaner 506 includes a suction source 526, such
as a motor-driven fan, that is in fluid communication with the hose
port 518 and a debris collection chamber 530 in the housing 510.
The housing 510 also includes a storage space 534 including a
plurality of compartments 538 to store, for example, different
tools and worksite accessories.
[0072] A lid 542 is coupled to the housing 510 and is moveable
between an open position, in which access to the storage space 534
is provided, and a closed position, in which access to the storage
space 534 is blocked. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 22, the lid
542 is transparent, such that an operator can identify what tools
and accessories are stored in the different compartments 538 of the
storage space 534. In some embodiments, the lid 542 can be moved to
the open position to provide access to the debris collection
chamber 530 and in some embodiments, the lid 542 can be moved to
the open position to provide access to the suction source 526. The
vacuum cleaner 506 also includes a battery receptacle 546 for
receipt of a battery pack 548 that is configured to power the
suction source 526 when received in the battery receptacle 546. In
some embodiments, the battery pack 548 is a 12V battery pack. The
vacuum cleaner 506 also includes an actuator 550 on the housing
510, such that moving the actuator 550 from an "OFF" position to an
"ON" position, while the battery pack 548 is in the battery
receptacle 546, turns on the suction source 526 to suction debris
through the hose port 518 and into the debris collection chamber
530.
[0073] FIGS. 19, 21 and 22 illustrate a vacuum cleaner 606 having a
housing 610 with a shape of a medium-sized toolbox that is larger
than the housing 510 of the vacuum cleaner 506. As shown in FIGS.
18 and 22, the housing 610 has a length L2 and a width W2 that are
respectively similar or identical to the length L1 and width W1 of
the housing 510 of the vacuum cleaner 506. Thus, since several
dimensions are similar or identical, the vacuum cleaner 506 may be
stacked on top of the vacuum cleaner 606 in a more convenient and
orderly manner. The vacuum cleaner 606 also includes a pair of
handles 614 and a hose port 618 for attaching the hose 522 for a
suction operation. The vacuum cleaner 606 also includes a bracket
624 on which the hose 522 can be stored, as shown in FIG. 21. The
vacuum cleaner 606 includes a suction source 626, such as a
motor-driven fan, that is in fluid communication with the hose port
618 and a debris collection chamber 630 in the housing 610.
[0074] The housing 610 also includes a storage space 634 including
a plurality of compartments 638 to store, for example, different
tools and worksite accessories. A lid 642 is coupled to the housing
610 and is moveable between an open position, in which access to
the storage space 634 is provided, and a closed position, in which
access to the storage space is blocked. A plurality of latches 644
are used to secure the lid 642 in the closed position. In the
embodiments shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the lid 642 is transparent,
such that an operator can identify what tools and accessories are
stored in the different compartments 638 of the storage space 634.
The vacuum cleaner 606 also includes a battery receptacle 646 for
receipt of a battery pack 648 that is configured to power the
suction source 626 when received in the battery receptacle 646. In
some embodiments, the battery pack 648 is an 18V battery pack. The
vacuum cleaner 606 also includes an actuator 650 on the housing
610, such that moving the actuator 650 from an "OFF" position to an
"ON" position, while the battery pack 648 is in the battery
receptacle 646, turns on the suction source 626 to suction debris
through the hose port 618 and into the debris collection chamber
630.
[0075] FIGS. 20-22 illustrate a vacuum cleaner 706 having a housing
710 with a shape of a large-sized toolbox that is larger than the
housings 510, 610 of the vacuum cleaners 506, 606. As shown in FIG.
20, the housing 710 has a length L3 and a width W3 that are
respectively similar or identical to at least one of the lengths
L1, L2 and widths W1, W2 of the housings 510, 610 of the vacuum
cleaners 506, 606. Thus, since at least one dimension is similar or
identical, the vacuum cleaners 506, 606 may be stacked on top of
the vacuum cleaner 706 in a more convenient and orderly manner. The
vacuum cleaner 706 also includes a pair of side handles 714, a
telescoping handle 716, and a hose port 718 for attaching the hose
522 for a suction operation. The vacuum cleaner 706 also includes a
pair of wheels 720, such that by grasping the telescoping handle
716, an operator can tilt the vacuum cleaner 706 and roll it along
a surface. The vacuum cleaner 706 includes a suction source 726,
such as a motor-driven fan, that is in fluid communication with the
hose port 718 and a debris collection chamber 730 in the housing
710.
[0076] The housing 710 also includes a storage space 734 including
a plurality of compartments to store, for example, different tools
and worksite accessories. A lid 742 is coupled to the housing 710
and is moveable between an open position, in which access to the
storage space 634 is provided, and a closed position, in which
access to the storage space is blocked. A plurality of latches 744
are used to secure the lid 742 in the closed position. The vacuum
cleaner 606 also includes two battery receptacles 746 that can each
receive a battery pack 748 that is configured to power the suction
source 726 when received in the battery receptacle 746. In some
embodiments, the battery packs 748 are 18V battery packs. The
vacuum cleaner 706 also includes an actuator 750 on the housing
710, such that moving the actuator 750 from an "OFF" position to an
"ON" position, while the battery packs 748 are in the battery
receptacles 746, turns on the suction source 726 to suction debris
through the hose port 718 and into the debris collection chamber
730.
[0077] As shown in FIG. 9, a vacuum cleaner 230 is configured to be
received in a holster 238 that can be worn on the hip or a belt 240
of an operator. In some embodiments, the holster 238 has ribs 242
that mate with grooves (not shown) on the vacuum cleaner 230. Thus,
the vacuum cleaner 230 can be worn on the operator's body or hip
without needing to be carried by the operator. The vacuum cleaner
230 also has a pivotable door 246 that can be opened downwardly to
empty the dirt and debris contents collected form a cleaning
operation.
[0078] As shown in FIG. 10, a vacuum cleaner 250 includes a mount
254 configured to receive a rotary power tool 258. When the power
tool 258 is mounted in the mount 254, operation of the power tool
258 drives a suction motor (not shown) of the vacuum cleaner
250.
[0079] As shown in FIG. 11, a vacuum cleaner 262 has a body 264
with a shape of a tool box, a handle 268 and a hose 272 for a
suction operation. The hose 272 includes wiring (not shown) that
leads to a trigger 276 at a suction head 280. Thus, pressing the
trigger 276 operates the suction motor (not shown) in the vacuum
cleaner 262.
[0080] As shown in FIG. 12, a vacuum cleaner 284 includes first
portion 286 including a suction nozzle 288 and a debris collection
chamber 290 and a handle portion 294 including a paddle trigger 298
for actuating a suction motor in the handle portion 294 that is
powered by a power source such as a battery or battery pack 302. By
pressing a release actuator 305 on the handle portion 294, the
first portion 286 is removable from the handle portion 294 to allow
the debris collection chamber 290 to be emptied.
[0081] FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate a vacuum cleaner 800 includes
first portion 804 including a nozzle 808 defining a first axis 810
and a debris collection chamber 812 defining a second axis 814. The
vacuum cleaner also includes a second portion 816 includes a handle
818 and a trigger 820 for actuating a motor 822 that rotates a fan
824 to generate suction in the second portion 816. The first
portion 804 is removably coupled to the second portion 816. The
motor 822 defines a third axis 826 and is powered by a removably
attachable battery pack 828 on the handle 818 of the second portion
816. In some embodiments, the battery pack 828 is a 12V battery
pack and in other embodiments, the battery pack 828 is an 18 V
battery pack. A pre-motor filter 832 defining a fourth axis 834 is
arranged on the second portion 816 such that when the first portion
804 is coupled to the second portion 816, the filter 832 is
arranged within the debris collection chamber 812, and the first
810, second 814, third 826, and fourth axes 834 are all coaxial and
intersecting the handle 818 and the battery pack 828.
[0082] When the first portion 804 is coupled to the second portion
816, the vacuum cleaner 800 has a small form factor, making it easy
for an operator to operate with one hand by grasping the handle
818. In operation, the operator may depress the trigger 820 to
generate suction through the nozzle 808 to draw dirt and debris
into the debris collection chamber 812. Air then continues to flow
through the filter 832, where smaller particulate matter is
filtered from the airflow, which is then exhausted through vents
836 on the second portion 816. After the suction operation has been
completed, when the suction operator first portion 804 is removed
from the second portion 816, the debris collection chamber 812 can
be emptied. When the operator is done using the vacuum cleaner 800,
the nozzle 808 is removable from the debris collection chamber 812,
the vacuum cleaner 800 can be conveniently stored.
[0083] As shown in FIG. 13, a vacuum cleaner 306 includes a body
310, a plurality of wheels 314, and a handle 316 to allow an
operator to pull the body 310 along the ground with the wheels 314.
The vacuum cleaner 306 also includes a suction source 318, such as
a motor with a fan, and a cyclonic separator 320 inside the body
310. The vacuum cleaner 306 also includes a filter fluidly coupled
to the suction source and the cyclone separator. The vacuum cleaner
306 also includes an AC power cord 322 configured to attach to an
AC power source, such as an electrical outlet, to provide power to
the suction source 318. The vacuum cleaner 306 also includes a
first tool interface 326 with a first outlet 330 and a first hose
port 334, as well as a second tool interface 338 with a second
outlet 342 and a second hose port 346. The vacuum cleaner 306 also
includes a primary debris bin 350 behind a door 352 and a secondary
debris bin behind a door 354. In some embodiments, the door 352 is
transparent to allow an operator to observe how much dust and
debris has accumulated in the primary debris bin 350, thus
improving the life of the filter.
[0084] In operation, as shown in FIG. 14, an operator such as
residential or commercial finish carpenter may need to use first
and second power tools 358, 362 during the installation of finish
woodwork on a jobsite. The operator thus plugs the AC power cord
322 of the vacuum cleaner 306 into an electrical outlet and plugs a
first power cord 366 of the first power tool 358, such as a table
saw, into the first outlet 330 of the first tool interface 326. The
operator also couples a first hose 370 between a debris outlet 374
of the first power tool 358 and the first hose port 334 of the
first tool interface 326.
[0085] The operator then turns on the first power tool 358 and uses
it to perform a cutting or sawing operation, which causes dust and
debris to exit the debris outlet 374 of the first power tool 358.
When the first power tool 358 is turned on, a first sensor 378 in
electrical communication with the first outlet 330 indicates to a
controller 382 that the first power tool 358 has been turned on and
is drawing current from the first outlet 330. In response, the
controller 382 turns on the suction source 318 opens a first blast
valve 384, such as a gate, (FIG. 13) of the first hose port 334,
thus causing the suction source 318 to suction dust and debris from
the debris outlet 374 of the first power tool 358 via the first
hose 370 and the first hose port 334. The dust and debris is
suctioned through the cyclonic separator 320, resulting in larger
debris falling to the primary debris bin 350 through the cyclonic
action of the cyclonic separator 320. After passing through the
cyclonic separator 320, additional dust and debris is captured in
the secondary debris bin behind door 354. In some embodiments, the
cyclone separator 320 collects 97% of the debris in the primary
debris bin 350.
[0086] When the operator is finished using the first power tool
358, the operator turns off the first power tool 358 and the first
sensor 378 indicates to the controller 382 that the first power
tool 358 is no longer drawing current from the first outlet 330. In
response, the controller 382 closes the first blast valve 384 of
the first hose port 334 and turns off the suction source 318.
[0087] The operator may then wish to use the second power tool 362,
such as a miter saw. The operator thus plugs a second power cord
386 of the second power tool 362 into the second outlet 342 of the
second tool interface 338. The operator also couples a second hose
390 between a debris outlet 394 of the second tool 362 and the
second hose port 346 of the second tool interface 338.
[0088] The operator then turns on the second power tool 362 and
uses it to perform a cutting or sawing operation, which causes dust
and debris to exit the debris outlet 394 of the second power tool
362. When the second power tool 362 is turned on, a second sensor
398 in electrical communication with the second outlet 342
indicates to the controller 382 that the second power tool 362 has
been turned on and is drawing current from the second outlet 342.
In response, the controller 382 turns on the suction source 318 and
opens a second blast valve 388, such as a gate, (FIG. 13) of the
second hose port 346, thus causing the suction source 318 to
suction dust and debris from the debris outlet 394 of the second
power tool 362 via the second hose 390 and the second hose port
346. The dust and debris is suctioned through the cyclonic
separator 320, resulting in larger debris falling to the primary
debris bin 350 through the cyclonic action of the cyclonic
separator 320. After passing through the cyclonic separator 320,
additional dust and debris is captured in the secondary debris bin
behind door 354.
[0089] When the operator is finished using the second power tool
362, the operator turns off the second power tool 362 and the
second sensor 398 indicates to the controller 382 that the second
power tool 362 is no longer drawing current from the second outlet
342. In response, the controller 382 closes the second blast valve
388 of the second hose port 346 and turns off the suction source
318.
[0090] After finishing using the second power tool 362, an operator
may want to switch back to using the first power tool 358. Because
the first power cord 366 of the first power tool 358 is already
plugged into the first outlet 330 of the first tool interface 326,
and because the first hose 370 is already coupled between the
debris outlet 374 of the first power tool 358 and the first hose
port 334 of the first tool interface 326, the operator need only
turn on the first power tool 358 to operate it, with the
accompanying suction operation of the vacuum cleaner 306, as
described above. Thus, the first and second tool interfaces 326,
338 make it easy for an operator to seamlessly switch between
operating first and second power tools 358, 362 at a jobsite, while
utilizing the vacuum cleaner 306 to maintain a dust-free
environment.
[0091] When the operator has finished operating, the operator may
empty dust and debris from the vacuum cleaner 306 by opening the
doors 352, 354 to access the primary 350 and secondary debris
bins.
[0092] In some embodiments, two separate operators may respectively
use the first and second power tools 358, 362 with vacuum cleaner
306 simultaneously. Specifically, as both tools 358, 362 are turned
on and operating, the first and second sensors 378, 398
respectively indicate that current is being drawn from the first
and second outlets 330, 342. In response the controller 382 turns
on the suction source 318 and opens both the first and second blast
valves 384, 388 of the first and second hose ports 334, 346,
allowing dust and debris to be suctioned from the first and second
power tools 358, 362 while they are operating simultaneously.
[0093] FIG. 25 illustrates a vacuum cleaner 906 that is
substantially similar to the vacuum cleaner 306, with like parts
having the same annotation plus 600, and the following differences
and additions explained below. Unlike the vacuum cleaner 306, the
vacuum cleaner 906 omits a second door for a secondary debris bin.
Also unlike the vacuum cleaner 306, the vacuum cleaner 906 includes
two battery receptacles 908 for respective receipt of two battery
packs 912 that, when received in the receptacles 908, provide power
to the suction source 918 and the first and second tool interfaces
928, 938. The vacuum cleaner 906 includes a lid 924 for covering up
a storage space 928 for storing tools and the like. The handle 916
is telescoping with respect to the housing 910.
[0094] On the first tool interface 926, a first indicator 932, such
as an LED, can light up or change colors to indicate that the first
power cord 366 of the first tool 358 is plugged into the first
outlet 930 and turned on. Specifically, in response to the first
tool 358 drawing power from the first outlet 930, the first sensor
978 indicates to the controller 982 that the first tool 358 has
been turned on and is drawing current from the first outlet 930,
and the first indicator 932 is set to a first state. When the first
tool 358 is turned off or unplugged from the first outlet 930, the
first sensor 978 indicates to the controller 982 that the first
tool 358 is not drawing current from the first outlet 930, and the
first indicator 932 is set to a second state that is different from
the first state.
[0095] On the second tool interface 938, a second indicator 936,
such as an LED, can light up or change colors to indicate that the
second power cord 386 of the second power tool 362 is plugged into
the second outlet 942 and turned on. Specifically, in response to
the second power tool 362 drawing power from the second outlet 942,
the second sensor 998 indicates to the controller 982 that the
second power tool 362 has been turned on and is drawing current
from the second outlet 942, and the second indicator 936 is set to
a first state. When the second power tool 362 is turned off or
unplugged from the second outlet 942, the second sensor 998
indicates to the controller 982 that the second power tool 362 is
not drawing current from the second outlet 942, and the second
indicator 936 is set to a second state that is different from the
first state.
[0096] The vacuum cleaner 906 also includes an actuator 944 that
can turn the vacuum cleaner 906 on or off. When the actuator 944
turns the vacuum cleaner 906 is off, the suction source 918 cannot
generate suction and the first and second power tools 358, 362
cannot draw power from the vacuum cleaner 906.
[0097] The vacuum cleaner 906 also includes a wireless
communication unit 940, such as a transceiver or a receiver, that
is configured to receive signals from the first and second power
tools 358, 362. In some embodiments of vacuum cleaner 906, the
first and second outlets 930, 942 are omitted and instead of
drawing power from the vacuum cleaner 906, the first and second
power cords 366, 386 of the first and second power tools 358, 362
are plugged into alternative AC sources, or independently run off
battery power. Thus, in embodiments of vacuum cleaner 906 where the
first and second outlets 930, 942 are omitted, the wireless
communication unit 940 of the vacuum cleaner 906 is configured to
receive signals from the first and second power tools 358, 362 to
determine if and when they are turned on.
[0098] In operation, when the operator turns on the first power
tool 358, the wireless communication unit 940 receives a wireless
first tool signal from a transceiver or transmitter of the first
power tool 358 indicating that the first power tool 358 has been
turned on. In response to the wireless communication unit 940
receiving the wireless first tool signal from the first power tool
358, the controller 982 turns on the suction source 918 and opens
the first blast valve 984 of the first hose port 934, thus causing
the suction source 918 to suction dust and debris from the debris
outlet 374 of the first power tool 358 via the first hose 370 and
the first hose port 934. In response to the wireless first tool
signal being received by the wireless communication unit 940, the
first indicator 932 is set to the first state.
[0099] When the operator is finished using the first power tool
358, the operator turns off the first power tool 358, such that the
wireless first tool signal from the first power tool 358 is no
longer sent to the wireless communication unit 940. In response,
the controller 982 closes the first blast valve 984 of the first
hose port 934, turns off the suction source 918, and sets the first
indicator 932 to the second state. The operator then turns on the
second power tool 362 and uses it to perform a cutting or sawing
operation, which causes dust and debris to exit the debris outlet
394 of the second power tool 362. When the second power tool 362 is
turned on, a transceiver or transmitter of the second power tool
362 sends a wireless second tool signal to the wireless
communication unit 940. In response to the wireless communication
unit 940 receiving the wireless second tool signal from the second
power tool 362, the controller 982 turns on the suction source 918
and opens the second blast valve 988 of the second hose port 946,
thus causing the suction source 918 to suction dust and debris from
the debris outlet 394 of the second power tool 362 via the second
hose 390 and the second hose port 946. In response to the wireless
second tool signal being received by the wireless communication
unit 940, the second indicator 936 is set to the first state.
[0100] When the operator is finished using the second power tool
362, the operator turns off the second power tool 362, such that
the wireless second tool signal from the second power tool 362 is
no longer sent to the wireless communication unit 940. In response,
the controller 982 closes the second blast valve 388 of the second
hose port 346, turns off the suction source 918, and sets the
second indicator 936 to the second state. Two separate operators
may respectively use the first and second power tools 358, 362 with
vacuum cleaner 906 simultaneously. Specifically, as both of the
first and second power tools 358, 362 are turned on and operating,
the first and second power tools 358, 362 respectively send first
and second wireless tool signals to the wireless communication unit
940, and in response, the controller 982 turns on the suction
source 918, sets both the first and second indicators 932, 936 to
their first states, and opens both the first and second blast
valves 984, 988 of the first and second hose ports 934, 946,
allowing dust and debris to be suctioned from the debris outlets
374, 394 of the first and second power tools 358, 362 while they
are operating simultaneously.
[0101] FIG. 26 illustrates a vacuum cleaner 906' that is
substantially identical to the vacuum cleaner 906, except the
position of the battery receptacles 908' and hose ports 934', 946'
are in different locations on the housing 910' than in the vacuum
cleaner 906.
[0102] FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate a vacuum cleaner 1000 having a
housing 1004, a nozzle 1008 selectively removable from the housing
1004, a debris collection chamber 1012, and a motor 1014 driving a
fan 1016 to generate suction. The fan 1016 is in fluid
communication with the nozzle 1008 and the debris collection
chamber 1012. A pre-motor filter 1020, such as a HEPA filter, is
arranged in the debris collection chamber 1012 and the fan 1016 is
arranged in an exhaust channel 1024 to exhaust the suction airflow.
A pair of batteries 1028 are removably coupled to battery
receptacles 1032 on the housing 1004 to provide power to the motor
1014. The housing 1004 includes a handle 1036 and the motor 1014 is
arranged between the battery receptacles 1032 and the handle 1036
along a first axis 1040 that is perpendicular to a motor axis 1044.
FIG. 29 illustrates a vacuum cleaner 1000' is substantially similar
to the vacuum cleaner 100, but has a different shape than the
vacuum cleaner 1000 and a removable debris collection chamber
1012'.
[0103] In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaners described in this
application are configured to clean up a dry mess at ground level.
In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaners are configured to clean up
a dry mess at standing height on enclosed work sites. In some
embodiments, the vacuum cleaners can be used on plywood, concrete
or finished floors. In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaners can be
used for mechanical, electrical and plumbing cleanup or
maintenance, repair, and operations task cleanup. In some
embodiments, the vacuum cleaners can clean up multiple floors with
small collected piles or punch list messes.
[0104] In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaners described in this
application are configured to pick up sawdust and mixed debris up
to 0.75 inches to 1 inch in diameter. In some embodiments, the
vacuum cleaners can pick up nails, screws, nuts, metal knockouts
that are up to 1 inch and washers that are up to 1 inch. In some
embodiments, the vacuum cleaners can pick up drywall. In some
embodiments, the vacuum cleaners can pick up small metal or PVC
shavings. In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaners can be used in
HVAC, electrical or tile trades.
[0105] In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaners described in this
application have a compact form factor. In some embodiments, the
vacuum cleaners provide a high level of suction. In some
embodiments, the vacuum cleaners allow a high level of control. In
some embodiments, the vacuum cleaners have quick operation. In some
embodiments, the vacuum cleaners require little or no setup. In
some embodiments, the vacuum cleaners are lightweight. In some
embodiments, little or no bending of the operator is required in
order to use the vacuum cleaners.
[0106] In some embodiments, accessories for use with the vacuum
cleaners can be provided to certain tradesmen with smart storage
options, such as rigid and flexible hoses, as well as floor,
crevice and brush tools. In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaners
are relatively quiet.
[0107] Various features of the invention are set forth in the
following claims.
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