U.S. patent application number 16/624669 was filed with the patent office on 2020-04-30 for a surface cleaning apparatus.
The applicant listed for this patent is TTI (MACAO COMMERCIAL OFFSHORE) LIMITED. Invention is credited to Simon Matthew Pougher.
Application Number | 20200129023 16/624669 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 60950095 |
Filed Date | 2020-04-30 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200129023 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pougher; Simon Matthew |
April 30, 2020 |
A SURFACE CLEANING APPARATUS
Abstract
A surface cleaning apparatus including: a housing supporting: a
suction source; a cyclonic separator device for separating dirt
from dirt-laden air, wherein the cyclonic separator device has an
elongate axis (A) which lies in a plane (Q1); a user graspable
handle having an elongate axis (C), a passage member for
transporting dirt-laden air to the dirt separation device, the
passage member having an elongate axis (B), wherein the elongate
axis (B) of the passage member and the elongate axis (C) of the
user graspable handle lie in a plane (P1), and the elongate axis
(A) of the body intersects the plane (P1), and wherein the cyclonic
separator device includes: a first separating chamber fluidly
connected to the passage member for separating relatively coarse
dust or debris from any dirt-laden air received from the passage
member; an inlet through which dirt-laden air is drawn into the
first dirt separating chamber; a first dirt collection chamber for
receiving dirt separated by the first separating chamber; a shroud;
an outlet through which cleaner air exits the first separating
chamber; a baffle positioned in the first dirt collection chamber
which lies in a plane (R1), and wherein, in side view, the plane
(Q1) is perpendicular to the vertical and the baffle is positioned
above the plane (Q1) such that, in normal use, dirt collected in
the first dirt collection chamber reaches the plane (Q1) before the
dirt reaches the baffle.
Inventors: |
Pougher; Simon Matthew;
(Chester Cheshire, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TTI (MACAO COMMERCIAL OFFSHORE) LIMITED |
Macau |
|
CN |
|
|
Family ID: |
60950095 |
Appl. No.: |
16/624669 |
Filed: |
June 15, 2018 |
PCT Filed: |
June 15, 2018 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/GB2018/051655 |
371 Date: |
December 19, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 5/12 20130101; A47L
9/1608 20130101; A47L 9/1683 20130101; B04C 5/26 20130101; A47L
9/322 20130101; A47L 9/1409 20130101; A47L 9/1633 20130101; A47L
9/102 20130101; A47L 9/1481 20130101; A47L 9/165 20130101; A47L
9/242 20130101; A47L 9/1691 20130101; A47L 5/28 20130101; A47L 5/36
20130101; A47L 9/248 20130101; A47L 9/327 20130101; A47L 9/1658
20130101; A47L 9/1616 20130101; A47L 5/24 20130101; B04C 5/187
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47L 9/16 20060101
A47L009/16; A47L 9/14 20060101 A47L009/14 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 19, 2017 |
GB |
PCT/GB2017/051786 |
Jun 19, 2017 |
GB |
PCT/GB2017/051788 |
Dec 5, 2017 |
GB |
1720287.0 |
Claims
1. A surface cleaning apparatus including: a housing supporting: a
suction source; a cyclonic separator device for separating dirt
from dirt-laden air, wherein the cyclonic separator device has an
elongate axis (A) which lies in a plane (Q1); a user graspable
handle having an elongate axis (C), a passage member for
transporting dirt-laden air to the dirt separation device, the
passage member having an elongate axis (B), wherein the elongate
axis (B) of the passage member and the elongate axis (C) of the
user graspable handle lie in a plane (P1), and the elongate axis
(A) of the cyclonic separator device intersects the plane (P1), and
wherein the cyclonic separator device includes: a first separating
chamber fluidly connected to the passage member for separating
relatively coarse dust or debris from any dirt-laden air received
from the passage member; an inlet through which dirt-laden air is
drawn into the first dirt separating chamber; a first dirt
collection chamber for receiving dirt separated by the first
separating chamber; a shroud; an outlet through which cleaner air
exits the first separating chamber; a baffle positioned in the
first dirt collection chamber which lies in a plane (R1), and
wherein, in side view, the plane (Q1) is perpendicular to the
vertical and the baffle is positioned above the plane (Q1) such
that, in normal use, dirt collected in the first dirt collection
chamber reaches the plane (Q1) before the dirt reaches the
baffle.
2. A surface cleaning apparatus including: a housing supporting: a
suction source; a cyclonic separator device for separating dirt
from dirt-laden air, wherein the cyclonic separator device has an
elongate axis (A) which lies in a plane (Q1), wherein, in normal
use, the housing is supported on a floor surface and the elongate
axis (A) of the cyclonic separator device is parallel with the
floor surface, and wherein the cyclonic separator device includes:
a first separating chamber for separating relatively coarse dust or
debris from dirt-laden air; an inlet through which dirt-laden air
is drawn into the first dirt separating chamber; a first dirt
collection chamber for receiving dirt separated by the first
separating chamber; a shroud; an outlet through which cleaner air
exits the first separating chamber; a baffle positioned in the
first dirt collection chamber which lies in a plane (R1), and
wherein, in side view, the plane (Q1) is perpendicular to the
vertical and the baffle is positioned above the plane (Q1) such
that, in normal use, dirt collected in the first dirt collection
chamber reaches the plane (Q1) before the dirt reaches the
baffle.
3. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 wherein,
in side view, the inlet of the first separating chamber is
positioned below the plane (Q1), and wherein, an angle formed
between the plane (Q1) and plane (R1) is between 30 and 60
degrees.
4. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 3 wherein the
angle is between 35 and 55 degrees.
5. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the
angle is between 40 and 45 degrees.
6. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the
angle is 43 degrees or is about 43 degrees.
7. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 wherein, in
side view, the inlet of the first separator chamber is positioned
above the plane (Q1), and wherein, an angle formed between the
plane (Q1) and plane (R1) is between 120 and 150 degrees.
8. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 7 wherein the
angle is between 125 and 145 degrees.
9. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the
angle is between 130 and 135 degrees.
10. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the
angle is 133 degrees or is about 133 degrees.
11. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim
wherein the first dirt collection chamber includes a generally
cylindrical portion and the baffle is connected to the generally
cylindrical portion or is in abutment with the generally
cylindrical portion.
12. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim
including a cover which defines an inwardly facing end wall of the
first dirt collection chamber.
13. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 12 wherein the
baffle is provided on the cover.
14. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 13 wherein the
baffle is integrally formed as part of the cover.
15. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim
wherein the generally cylindrical portion of the first separating
chamber has a height H.sub.c, and wherein the baffle extends
upwardly from the end wall of the first dirt collection chamber lid
a height B.sub.h, wherein the ratio (H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is defined by
the range: 1.4:1.ltoreq.H.sub.c:B.sub.h.ltoreq.1.9:1.
16. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 15 wherein
(H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is defined by the range:
1.6:1.ltoreq.H.sub.c:B.sub.h.ltoreq.1.8:1.
17. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 16 wherein
(H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is or is about 1.7.
18. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim
wherein the baffle extends from the first generally cylindrical
portion in a radial direction towards elongate axis (A).
19. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 18 wherein the
baffle extends a radial distance B.sub.r and wherein the first dirt
collection chamber has a diameter D.sub.r, wherein the ratio
(D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the range:
3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.6:1.
20. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 19 wherein the
ratio (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the range:
3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.5:1.
21. A surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 20 wherein
(D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is or is about 4.
22. A cyclonic separator device for separating dirt from dirt-laden
air, the cyclonic separator device including: a first separating
chamber for separating relatively coarse dust or debris from
dirt-laden air; an inlet through which dirt-laden air is drawn into
the first dirt separating chamber; a first dirt collection chamber
for receiving dirt separated by the first separating chamber; a
shroud; an outlet through which cleaner air exits the first
separating chamber; a baffle positioned in the first dirt
collection chamber which lies in a plane (R1), wherein the
generally cylindrical portion of the first separating chamber has a
height H.sub.c, and wherein the baffle extends upwardly from the
end wall of the first dirt collection chamber lid a height B.sub.h,
wherein the ratio (H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is defined by the range:
1.4:1.ltoreq.H.sub.c:B.sub.h.ltoreq.1.9:1.
23. A cyclonic separator device according to claim 22 wherein
(H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is defined by the range:
1.6:1.ltoreq.H.sub.c:B.sub.h.ltoreq.1.8:1.
24. A cyclonic separator device according to claim 23 wherein
(H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is or is about 1.7.
25. A cyclonic separator device according to any one of claims 22
to 24 wherein the baffle extends from the first generally
cylindrical portion in a radial direction towards elongate axis
(A), the baffle extends a radial distance B.sub.r and a diameter of
the first dirt collection chamber is D.sub.r, and wherein the ratio
(D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the range:
3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.6:1.
26. A cyclonic separator device according to claim 25 wherein the
ratio (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the range:
3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.5:1.
27. A cyclonic separator device according to claim 26 wherein
(D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is or is about 4.
28. A cyclonic separator device for separating dirt from dirt-laden
air, the cyclonic separator device including: a first separating
chamber for separating relatively coarse dust or debris from any
dirt-laden air received from the passage member; an inlet through
which dirt-laden air is drawn into the first dirt separating
chamber; a first dirt collection chamber for receiving dirt
separated by the first separating chamber; a shroud; an outlet
through which cleaner air exits the first separating chamber; a
baffle positioned in the first dirt collection chamber which lies
in a plane (R1), wherein the baffle extends from the first
generally cylindrical portion in a radial direction towards
elongate axis (A) a radial distance B.sub.r and wherein a diameter
of the first dirt collection chamber is D.sub.r, wherein the ratio
(D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the range:
3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.6:1.
29. A cyclonic separator device according to claim 28 wherein the
ratio (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the range:
3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.5:1.
30. A cyclonic separator device according to claim 29 wherein
(D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is or is about 4.
31. A surface cleaning apparatus or cyclonic separator device
according to any preceding claim wherein the cyclonic separator
device includes: a second separating chamber positioned generally
within the shroud for separating relatively fine dirt from the
dirt-laden air cleaned by the first separating chamber, a second
dirt collection chamber in communication with the second separating
chamber; an outlet through which cleaner air exits the second
separating chamber; wherein the first separating chamber includes a
generally cylindrical portion with a central axis and wherein the
inlet is configured to direct the incoming dirt-laden air into said
generally cylindrical portion such that it travels
circumferentially around an inner surface of the first separating
chamber, wherein the shroud is positioned generally centrally of
the generally cylindrical portion of the first separating chamber
and the shroud has a generally cylindrical portion having a height
D with openings therein for the passage of air therethrough towards
the second separating chamber, wherein the second separating
chamber includes: an inlet through which cleaned dirt-laden air
exiting the first separating chamber is drawn into the second
separating chamber; and a generally frusto-conical portion with a
central axis and the generally frusto-conical portion has an end
part in communication with the second dirt collection chamber
through which fine dirt exits therethrough into the second dirt
collection chamber, and wherein the inlet of the second separating
chamber is configured to direct the incoming said cleaned
dirt-laden air such that it travels circumferentially around an
inner surface of the generally frusto-conical portion.
32. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim
including: a surface cleaning tool; an elongate member having an
elongate axis, said elongate member connecting the surface cleaning
tool to the housing and including a passage for carrying dirt-laden
air from the surface cleaning tool to the dirt collection
chamber.
33. A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim
wherein the apparatus is a handheld apparatus.
34. Any novel feature or novel combination of features described
herein and/or in the accompanying drawings.
Description
DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to a surface cleaning apparatus
including a cyclonic separation device.
[0002] In more detail, the invention relates to improving the
performance of a cyclonic separating device by optimising certain
characteristics and dimensions of certain parts of the device, for
example, in relation to optimising the performance of a cyclonic
separating device which is horizontal or otherwise inclined in
normal use.
[0003] According to an aspect of the present invention we provide a
surface cleaning apparatus including: [0004] a housing supporting:
[0005] a suction source; [0006] a cyclonic separator device for
separating dirt from dirt-laden air, wherein the cyclonic separator
device has an elongate axis (A) which lies in a plane (Q1); [0007]
a user graspable handle having an elongate axis (C), [0008] a
passage member for transporting dirt-laden air to the dirt
separation device, the passage member having an elongate axis (B),
[0009] wherein the elongate axis (B) of the passage member and the
elongate axis (C) of the user graspable handle lie in a plane (P1),
and the elongate axis (A) of the cyclonic separator device
intersects the plane (P1), and [0010] wherein the cyclonic
separator device includes: [0011] a first separating chamber
fluidly connected to the passage member for separating relatively
coarse dust or debris from any dirt-laden air received from the
passage member; [0012] an inlet through which dirt-laden air is
drawn into the first dirt separating chamber; [0013] a first dirt
collection chamber for receiving dirt separated by the first
separating chamber; [0014] a shroud; [0015] an outlet through which
cleaner air exits the first separating chamber; [0016] a baffle
positioned in the first dirt collection chamber which lies in a
plane (R1), and [0017] wherein, in side view, the plane (Q1) is
perpendicular to the vertical and the baffle is positioned above
the plane (Q1) such that, in normal use, dirt collected in the
first dirt collection chamber reaches the plane (Q1) before the
dirt reaches the baffle.
[0018] According to an aspect of the present invention we provide a
surface cleaning apparatus including: [0019] a housing supporting:
[0020] a suction source; [0021] a cyclonic separator device for
separating dirt from dirt-laden air, wherein the cyclonic separator
device has an elongate axis (A) which lies in a plane (Q1),
wherein, in normal use, the housing is supported on a floor surface
and the elongate axis (A) of the cyclonic separator device is
parallel with the floor surface, and [0022] wherein the cyclonic
separator device includes: [0023] a first separating chamber for
separating relatively coarse dust or debris from dirt-laden air;
[0024] an inlet through which dirt-laden air is drawn into the
first dirt separating chamber; [0025] a first dirt collection
chamber for receiving dirt separated by the first separating
chamber; [0026] a shroud; [0027] an outlet through which cleaner
air exits the first separating chamber; [0028] a baffle positioned
in the first dirt collection chamber which lies in a plane (R1),
and [0029] wherein, in side view, the plane (Q1) is perpendicular
to the vertical and the baffle is positioned above the plane (Q1)
such that, in normal use, dirt collected in the first dirt
collection chamber reaches the plane (Q1) before the dirt reaches
the baffle.
[0030] Optionally in side view, the inlet of the first separating
chamber is positioned below the plane (Q1), and wherein, an angle
formed between the plane (Q1) and plane (R1) is between 30 and 60
degrees.
[0031] Optionally the angle is between 35 and 55 degrees.
[0032] Optionally the angle is between 40 and 45 degrees.
[0033] Optionally the angle is 43 degrees or is about 43
degrees.
[0034] Optionally in side view, the inlet of the first separator
chamber is positioned above the plane (Q1), and wherein, an angle
formed between the plane (Q1) and plane (R1) is between 120 and 150
degrees.
[0035] Optionally the angle is between 125 and 145 degrees.
[0036] Optionally the angle is between 130 and 135 degrees.
[0037] Optionally the angle is 133 degrees or is about 133
degrees.
[0038] Optionally the first dirt collection chamber includes a
generally cylindrical portion and the baffle is connected to the
generally cylindrical portion or is in abutment with the generally
cylindrical portion.
[0039] Optionally the apparatus includes a cover which defines an
inwardly facing end wall of the first dirt collection chamber.
[0040] Optionally the baffle is provided on the cover.
[0041] Optionally the baffle is integrally formed as part of the
cover.
[0042] Optionally the generally cylindrical portion of the first
separating chamber has a height H.sub.c, and wherein the baffle
extends upwardly from the end wall of the first dirt collection
chamber lid a height B.sub.h, wherein the ratio (H.sub.c:B.sub.h)
is defined by the range: [0043]
1.4:1.ltoreq.H.sub.c:B.sub.h.ltoreq.1.9:1.
[0044] Optionally (H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is defined by the range: [0045]
1.6:1.ltoreq.H.sub.c:B.sub.h.ltoreq.1.8:1.
[0046] Optionally (H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is or is about 1.7.
[0047] Optionally the baffle extends from the first generally
cylindrical portion in a radial direction towards elongate axis
(A).
[0048] Optionally the baffle extends a radial distance B.sub.r and
wherein the first dirt collection chamber has a diameter D.sub.r,
wherein the ratio (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the range: [0049]
3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.6:1.
[0050] Optionally the ratio (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the
range: [0051] 3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.5:1.
[0052] Optionally (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is or is about 4.
[0053] According to an aspect of the present invention we provide a
cyclonic separator device for separating dirt from dirt-laden air,
the cyclonic separator device including: [0054] a first separating
chamber for separating relatively coarse dust or debris from
dirt-laden air; [0055] an inlet through which dirt-laden air is
drawn into the first dirt separating chamber; [0056] a first dirt
collection chamber for receiving dirt separated by the first
separating chamber; [0057] a shroud; [0058] an outlet through which
cleaner air exits the first separating chamber; [0059] a baffle
positioned in the first dirt collection chamber which lies in a
plane (R1), [0060] wherein the generally cylindrical portion of the
first separating chamber has a height H.sub.c, and wherein the
baffle extends upwardly from the end wall of the first dirt
collection chamber lid a height B.sub.h, wherein the ratio
(H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is defined by the range: [0061]
1.4:1.ltoreq.H.sub.c:B.sub.h.ltoreq.1.9:1.
[0062] Optionally (H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is defined by the range: [0063]
1.6:1.ltoreq.H.sub.c:B.sub.h.ltoreq.1.8:1.
[0064] Optionally (H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is or is about 1.7.
[0065] Optionally the baffle extends from the first generally
cylindrical portion in a radial direction towards elongate axis
(A), the baffle extends a radial distance B.sub.r and a diameter of
the first dirt collection chamber is D.sub.r, and [0066] wherein
the ratio (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the range: [0067]
3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.6:1.
[0068] Optionally the ratio (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the
range: [0069] 3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.5:1.
[0070] Optionally (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is or is about 4.
[0071] According to an aspect of the present invention we provide a
cyclonic separator device for separating dirt from dirt-laden air,
the cyclonic separator device including: [0072] a first separating
chamber for separating relatively coarse dust or debris from any
dirt-laden air received from the passage member; [0073] an inlet
through which dirt-laden air is drawn into the first dirt
separating chamber; [0074] a first dirt collection chamber for
receiving dirt separated by the first separating chamber; [0075] a
shroud; [0076] an outlet through which cleaner air exits the first
separating chamber; [0077] a baffle positioned in the first dirt
collection chamber which lies in a plane (R1), [0078] wherein the
baffle extends from the first generally cylindrical portion in a
radial direction towards elongate axis (A) a radial distance
B.sub.r and wherein a diameter of the first dirt collection chamber
is D.sub.r, [0079] wherein the ratio (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined
by the range: [0080] 3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.6:1.
[0081] Optionally the ratio (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the
range: [0082] 3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.5:1.
[0083] Optionally (D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is or is about 4.
[0084] Optionally the cyclonic separator device includes: [0085] a
second separating chamber positioned generally within the shroud
for separating relatively fine dirt from the dirt-laden air cleaned
by the first separating chamber, [0086] a second dirt collection
chamber in communication with the second separating chamber; [0087]
an outlet through which cleaner air exits the second separating
chamber; [0088] wherein the first separating chamber includes a
generally cylindrical portion with a central axis and wherein the
inlet is configured to direct the incoming dirt-laden air into said
generally cylindrical portion such that it travels
circumferentially around an inner surface of the first separating
chamber, [0089] wherein the shroud is positioned generally
centrally of the generally cylindrical portion of the first
separating chamber and the shroud has a generally cylindrical
portion having a height D with openings therein for the passage of
air therethrough towards the second separating chamber, [0090]
wherein the second separating chamber includes: [0091] an inlet
through which cleaned dirt-laden air exiting the first separating
chamber is drawn into the second separating chamber; and [0092] a
generally frusto-conical portion with a central axis and the
generally frusto-conical portion has an end part in communication
with the second dirt collection chamber through which fine dirt
exits therethrough into the second dirt collection chamber, and
wherein the inlet of the second separating chamber is configured to
direct the incoming said cleaned dirt-laden air such that it
travels circumferentially around an inner surface of the generally
frusto-conical portion.
[0093] A surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding or
aspect/optional aspect including: [0094] a surface cleaning tool;
[0095] an elongate member having an elongate axis, said elongate
member connecting the surface cleaning tool to the housing and
including a passage for carrying dirt-laden air from the surface
cleaning tool to the dirt collection chamber.
[0096] Optionally the apparatus is a handheld apparatus.
[0097] Embodiments of the invention will be set out below by way of
example only with reference to the accompanying figures, of
which:
[0098] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning
apparatus;
[0099] FIG. 2 is a front view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
[0100] FIG. 3 is a side view of the apparatus FIG. 1;
[0101] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a housing of the apparatus
of FIG. 1, which housing is operable as a handheld surface cleaning
apparatus;
[0102] FIG. 5 is a side view of the housing of FIG. 4;
[0103] FIG. 6 is a side view of a component of the apparatus of
FIG. 1;
[0104] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view A-A of the component of
FIG. 6;
[0105] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view B-B of the component of
FIG. 6;
[0106] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a component of an
embodiment of the invention, and
[0107] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the housing of FIG.
4.
[0108] Referring to the figures, these show a surface cleaning
apparatus 10 in accordance with the present invention. The
apparatus 10 includes a surface cleaning tool 12 (a floor head in
this example), a housing 16 having an elongate axis H and an
elongate member 14, having an elongate axis E, connecting the
surface cleaning tool 12 to the housing 16. The elongate member 14
is relatively rigid. The housing 16, in this example, is operable
as a handheld surface cleaning apparatus, commonly known as a hand
vac, when the elongate member 14 is not connected thereto, and in
this state the housing 16 can be used with or without the surface
cleaning tool 12 connected thereto. The housing 16 supports a
suction source 13 and a dirt separation device 15 including a
cyclonic separator device 18. The cyclonic separator device 18 is
generally cylindrical and has an elongate axis A. The axis A is the
axis about which dirt-laden air is caused to rotate by the cyclonic
separator as it passes through the apparatus 10. The cyclonic
separator device 18 also includes a filter 84 for cleaning the
relatively clean air emitted by the cyclonic separator device 18.
In embodiments, the suction source 13 is an electric motor driving
a rotatable fan, but any appropriate suction source may be used.
All that is necessary is for the suction source to be able to draw
air through the surface cleaning tool 12 and elongate member 14
towards the cyclonic separator device 18.
[0109] In embodiments, the housing 16 supports or contains a
battery 23 to provide electrical power to the suction motor and
other components of the apparatus 10. The battery 23 is of a
generally elongate shape but may be of a different shape in other
embodiments.
[0110] In embodiments, the housing 16 includes a passage member 19
in fluid communication with the cyclonic separator device 18. The
passage member 19 is generally elongate. Passage member 19 has an
elongate axis B. A first end of the passage member 19 defines an
inlet 17 for receiving dirt-laden air. The first end is connectable
to the elongate member 14 or surface cleaning tool 12. When
connected, axis B is parallel to the elongate axis E of the
elongate member 14. In embodiments, axis B may be co-axial or
offset from the elongate axis E.
[0111] In embodiments, the cyclonic separator device 18 includes an
inlet passage member 28 for fluidly connecting the passage member
19 to the cyclonic separation device 18. In embodiments, there may
be no inlet passage member 28 and instead the passage member 19
communicates with an inlet of the cyclonic separator device
directly. In other embodiments, the housing 16 has no passage
member and the inlet passage member 28 is formed as part of the
dirt separation device 15 and connects to a tool or elongate member
directly.
[0112] The elongate member 14 includes a passage for carrying
dirt-laden air from the surface cleaning tool 12 to the dirt
separation device. In this example the surface cleaning tool 12
includes a motor for driving a rotatable floor agitating member or
brush, so the elongate member 14 includes a further passage through
which electrical cables may extend to provide an electric
connection between the housing 16 and the motor in the surface
cleaning tool 12.
[0113] The surface cleaning tool 12 is disconnectable from the
elongate member 14, so that, for example, another tool can be
connected to the free end of the elongate member 14. The elongate
member 14 is also disconnectable from the housing 16, by way of a
manually operated switch 17a. This enables the housing 16 to be
used as a handheld surface cleaning apparatus, with the option of
being able to connect another tool to the location from where the
elongate member 14 is removed.
[0114] The housing 16 includes a handle for holding the apparatus
10, said handle including first 20 and second 21 user-graspable
portions which are connected to each other substantially at
right-angles. The dirt separation device 15 is positioned forwardly
of the handle. A first end of the first user-graspable portion 20
is connected to the housing 16 and the portion 20 extends generally
upwardly and away therefrom. The user-graspable portion 20 has an
elongate axis C. A first end of the second user-graspable portion
21 is connected to the housing 16 and extends generally rearwardly
away therefrom and from the elongate member 14. Respective second
ends of the first 20 and second 21 user-graspable portions are
connected to each other. Essentially, the first 20 and second 21
user-graspable portions form a handle which is L-shaped and which
provides two locations each of which is sized such that it can be
grasped fully by a hand of a user. A device 22a, e.g. a switch, for
turning the apparatus "on" is positioned at the connection of the
second ends of the first 20 and second 21 user-graspable portions
to each other.
[0115] The suction source 13 is in the form of an electric motor 30
with an axle which is connected at one end to a fan. The motor 30
may be any appropriate motor, e.g. DC, AC, brushless.
[0116] An upstream wall 112 of the housing 16 extends along the
elongate axis H of the housing 16 and has an inner surface which
partially defines an air flow passage from an outlet 104 of the
dirt separation device to an inlet 103 of the suction source 13. In
more detail, an inlet passage 37a to the suction source 13 defines
an inlet 103 at an end face thereof and the upstream wall 112
defines an outlet 114 at an end face thereof. The end face of
passage 37a is provided with a seal which abuts the end face of
outlet 114 in a sealing manner when the dirt separation device 15
is attached to the housing 16.
[0117] The cyclonic separator device 18 has a first end including
the cover 18a and a second end including the upstream wall 112. A
cylindrical wall 33 extends between the first and second ends. A
portion of the surface of the wall 33 is received by a
correspondingly shaped recessed surface of the housing 16.
[0118] The cyclonic separator device 18 has first and second dirt
collection chambers 18b, 18e provided at one end 107a thereof.
[0119] The cyclonic separator device 18 has first and second
separating chambers 18c, 18d adjacent the first and second dirt
collection chambers 18b, 18e. By referring to chambers 18a, 18d,
18b, 18e, it should be understood that the chambers include walls
provided by various components and that those walls define
respective one or more surfaces and spaces of the chambers.
[0120] The cyclonic separator device 18 includes a shroud 100 which
also has an elongate axis coaxial with the axis A, the axis A being
that about which dirt-laden air is caused to rotate as it passes
through the apparatus 10 and circulates around the shroud 100. The
shroud 100 is positioned as part of the cyclonic separator device
18 at an end 107b thereof which is opposite to the end 107a of the
cyclonic separator device 18 at which the first and second dirt
collection chambers 18b, 18c are provided. The shroud 100 has a
skirt 101 with a free distal end. Shroud 100 has a generally
cylindrical portion 102 having openings therein for the passage of
air positioned generally centrally of the cyclonic separating
device 18.
[0121] The first separating chamber 18c is for separating
relatively coarse dust or debris from the dirt-laden air. The first
separating chamber 18c is in communication with the first dirt
collection chamber 18b so that separated dust or debris falls into
the first dirt collection chamber 18b therefrom.
[0122] The second separating chamber 18d is positioned generally
within the shroud 100 and is for separating relatively fine dust or
debris from the dirt-laden air cleaned by the first separating
chamber 18c. The second separating chamber 18d is in communication
with the second dirt collection chamber 18e so that separated dust
or debris falls into the second dirt collection chamber 18e
therefrom.
[0123] The cyclonic separator device 18 includes an inlet 99a
through which dirt-laden air is drawn into the first separating
chamber 18c. The inlet 99a is configured to direct the incoming
dirt-laden air into a generally cylindrical portion of the first
separating chamber 18c such that it travels circumferentially
around an inner surface 19a of the first separating chamber 18c.
Whilst in this embodiment the elongate axes of the dirt collection
chambers 18c, 18e and the shroud 100 are coaxial or substantially
coaxial, they need not be. They could, for example, be parallel and
offset from each other or inclined relative to each other.
Alternatively, the shroud 100 could be positioned generally
centrally of the generally cylindrical portion of one or both of
the separating chambers 18c, 18e.
[0124] The cyclonic separator device 18 includes an inlet 99b
through which cleaned dirt-laden air exiting the first separating
chamber 18c is drawn into the second separating chamber 18d. The
second separating chamber 18d includes a generally frusto-conical
portion 50 with a central axis. The frusto-conical portion 50 has
an end part 52 in communication with the second dirt collection
chamber 18e through which fine dust or debris exits therethrough
into the second dirt collection chamber 18e.
[0125] The inlet 99b of the second separating chamber 18c is
configured to direct the incoming cleaned dirt-laden air such that
it travels circumferentially around an inner surface 54 of the
generally frusto-conical portion 50. The use of such a
frusto-conical portion 50 may permit the second separating chamber
18d to separate finer dust or debris from the air than that
achievable by the first separating chamber 18c.
[0126] The second dirt collection chamber 18e includes a first
portion 56 positioned near the end part 52 of the generally
frusto-conical portion 50 and a second portion 58 connected to the
first portion 56 which extends to an end wall of the cyclonic
separator device 18 therefrom. The first and second portions 56, 58
are generally cylindrical with the first portion 56 having a
greater cross-sectional area than the second portion 58, i.e. as
considered without the portion 50 being positioned therein. In
other words, the cross-sectional areas referred to are those
defined by the respective inner surfaces of the first and second
portions 56, 58 as viewed in side cross-section. In embodiments,
the respective areas of the cross-sections may be the same or
different. A third portion 60 which is frusto-conical connects the
second portion 58 to the first portion 56. The second dirt
collection chamber 18e includes a baffle 63 positioned generally
centrally thereof. A baffle 62 is provided at end 107a of the
cyclonic separator device 18. The first dirt collection chamber 18b
includes a generally cylindrical portion and a portion of the
baffle 62 abuts the generally cylindrical portion. The cover 18a
defines an inwardly facing end wall of the first dirt collection
chamber 18b and the baffle 62 is integrally formed as part of the
cover.
[0127] The suction source 13 is positioned such that its axle
extends transversely to the elongate axis H of the housing 16. The
axis of the axle and axis A of the cyclonic separator device 18
extend perpendicularly to the elongate axis H of the housing 16.
The axes of the axle and dirt collection chamber 18 are also
parallel to one another in this embodiment but they may not be in
other embodiments. The elongate axis B of the passage member 19 and
the elongate axis C of the first user graspable portion 20 of the
handle lie in a plane P1, and the elongate axis A of the cyclonic
separator device 18 intersects the plane P1 (as shown in FIGS. 2
and 3). The elongate axis A is substantially horizontal in normal
use.
[0128] Normal use of the surface cleaning apparatus 10 refers to
use thereof when the elongate member 14 is inclined at an acute
angle with respect to the surface being cleaned. In other
embodiments for which the surface cleaning apparatus 10 is a
cylinder cleaner, the housing supporting dirt separation device 15
may be generally upright with respect to the floor surface during
normal use, and the elongate axis A may be parallel with or
inclined with respect to the floor surface. For embodiments where
the apparatus 10 is an upright cleaner, the housing may be inclined
with respect to the floor surface and the elongate axis A may be
parallel or inclined with the floor surface during normal use.
[0129] In more detail, elongate axis A lies in a plane Q1. The
baffle 62 is generally planar and lies in a plane R1 (see FIG. 8).
In side view, the plane Q1 is perpendicular to the vertical and the
baffle 62 is positioned above the plane Q1. The baffle 62 is so
positioned that during operation such that, in use, dirt collected
in the first dirt collection chamber 18b reaches the plane Q1
before the dirt reaches the baffle 62.
[0130] The operation of the baffle 62 will now be described. During
normal use of the cyclonic separator device 18, dirt will fall into
the first dirt collection chamber 18b under the combined effects of
gravity and centrifugal forces such that dirt is collected below
the plane Q1 before it accumulates and rises above the plane Q1.
The baffle 62 functions in a manner known in the art to retain the
dirt within the first dirt collection chamber 18b and to prevent it
from re-entering the airflow. Advantageously, by having the baffle
62 positioned above the plane Q1, the surfaces of the baffle 62 are
not obstructed by dirt collected in the first dirt collection
chamber 18b until the amount of dirt collected is such that it
rises above the plane Q1. This means that the baffle 62 continues
to perform its function for longer.
[0131] With reference to FIG. 8, in embodiments for which, in side
view, the inlet 99a of the first separating chamber 18c is
positioned below the plane Q1, i.e. the air is rotated in an
anti-clockwise direction around the cyclonic separating device, it
has been found that pronounced improvements in the performance of
the baffle occur when an angle .THETA. formed between the plane Q1
and plane R1 lies in the range 30 to 60 degrees. Further
improvements are found if the angle .THETA. lies in the range 35 to
55 degrees. More improvements are found if .THETA. lies in the
range 40 to 45 degrees. It has been discovered that a particularly
advantageous value of e is 43 degrees or is about 43 degrees.
[0132] FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a dirt separation
device 15 according to embodiments for which, in side view, the
inlet 99a of the first separator chamber is positioned above the
plane Q1, i.e. the air is rotated in a clockwise direction around
the cyclonic separating device. For such embodiments, it has been
found that pronounced improvements in the performance of the baffle
occur when an angle .THETA. formed between the plane Q1 and plane
R1 lies in the range 120 to 150 degrees. Further improvements are
found if the angle .THETA. lies in the range 125 to 145 degrees.
More improvements are found if .THETA. lies in the range 130 to 135
degrees. It has been discovered that a particularly advantageous
value of e is 133 degrees or is about 133 degrees.
[0133] The inventors have discovered that, in embodiments, the use
of a single baffle as described, as opposed to a plurality of
baffles, prevents the entrailment of dirt from the first dirt
collection chamber into the air during operation to a satisfactory
degree without requiring further baffles.
[0134] A height H.sub.c of the cylindrical wall 80 of the first
separating chamber 18c is defined with reference to the free end of
the shroud skirt 101 and where an upper portion of the shroud 100
seals against the first separating chamber 18c.
[0135] It has been found that advantageous performance may occur
for embodiments in which height H.sub.c of the generally
cylindrical portion of the first separating chamber is 60-70 mm,
optionally or preferably 62-68 mm, or optionally or preferably the
height H.sub.c is 65 mm. Further improvements are found if a height
B.sub.h that the baffle 62 extends upwardly from the end wall of
the first dirt collection chamber 18b is 38-44 mm, optionally or
preferably 38-41 mm, or optionally or preferably the height B.sub.h
is 39 mm.
[0136] The inventors have also discovered advantageous synergies
between H.sub.c and B.sub.h. For example, in embodiments,
improvements are found when the ratio (H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is defined
by the range: [0137] 1.4:1.ltoreq.H.sub.c:B.sub.h.ltoreq.1.9:1.
[0138] Performance improvements are also found when the ratio
(H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is defined by the range: [0139]
1.6:1.ltoreq.H.sub.c:B.sub.h.ltoreq.1.8:1.
[0140] Performance improvements are also found when the ratio
(H.sub.c:B.sub.h) is or is about 1.7.
[0141] Additionally, advantageously it has been found that
performance may be increased for embodiments in which a radial
distance B.sub.r extended by the baffle 62 in a radial direction
towards the elongate axis A is 12-18 mm, optionally or preferably
14-16 mm, optionally or preferably B.sub.r is 15 mm. Further
improvements are found if a radius D.sub.r of the internal surface
of the first dirt collection chamber 18 is 55-65 mm, optionally or
preferably 59-62 mm, or optionally or preferably the D.sub.r is 61
mm.
[0142] The inventors have also discovered advantageous synergies
between B.sub.r and a diameter D.sub.r. For example, in
embodiments, improvements are found when the ratio
(D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the range: [0143]
3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.6:1.
[0144] Performance improvements are also found when the ratio
(D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is defined by the range: [0145]
3:1.ltoreq.D.sub.r:B.sub.r.ltoreq.5:1.
[0146] Performance improvements are also found when the ratio
(D.sub.r:B.sub.r) is or is about 4.
[0147] The advantageous dimensions and ratios described provide
advantageous performance for embodiments having a single baffle
embodying the described dimensions/ratios or a plurality of baffles
embodying the described dimensions/ratios. Furthermore, the
associated advantageous performance may be obtainable for cyclonic
separators that are not horizontal in normal use.
[0148] The present invention may be realised for cylinder cleaner
embodiments including a housing supporting a suction source, a
cyclonic separator device having a body with an elongate axis A
which lies in a plane Q1 and for which, in normal use, the housing
is supported on a floor surface and the elongate axis (A) of the
body is parallel with the floor surface. In such embodiments, a
baffle is positioned in the first dirt collection chamber which
lies in a plane (R1), and, in side view, the plane Q1 is
perpendicular to the vertical and the baffle is positioned above
the plane Q1.
[0149] Embodiments of the present invention need not have first and
second separating chambers and associated first and second dirt
collection chambers. Such embodiments may only have a first
separating chamber and associated first dirt collection
chamber.
[0150] When used in this specification and claims, the terms
"comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the
specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are
not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features,
steps or components.
[0151] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the
following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their
specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed
function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed
result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of
such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse
forms thereof.
* * * * *