Vacuum cleaner

Abstract

The vacuum cleaner includes: a vacuum motor configured to draw an airflow through an airflow path of the vacuum cleaner; a dirt separator having a dirt container; a display screen; and a controller configured to control an image displayed on the screen. The dirt container has a closed configuration in which the dirt container can receive dirt separated from the airflow, and an open configuration in which dirt contained therein can be emptied from the dirt container. The controller is configured to display video instructions on the screen.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on November 6, 2019, with application number 201980073807.9 and invention title "Vacuum Cleaner". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to vacuum cleaners. Background Technology

[0003] Modern vacuum cleaners are generally relatively complex because manufacturers are constantly seeking to add or improve features. As a result, many vacuum cleaners now require users to perform relatively complicated procedures to use them correctly. Consequently, operating many vacuum cleaners is no longer a matter of simple intuition. Users are thus forced to read instruction manuals or figure out how to operate their vacuum cleaners through trial and error. In the former case, users may become frustrated by the time spent reading, while in the latter case, users may damage their machines or unknowingly use them in ways that fail to provide optimal performance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One object of the present invention is to mitigate or eliminate at least one of the above-mentioned disadvantages, and / or to provide an improved or alternative vacuum cleaner.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a vacuum cleaner is provided, comprising:

[0006] A vacuum motor is configured to draw airflow through the airflow path of a vacuum cleaner.

[0007] A sludge separator for separating sludge entrained in an airflow, the sludge separator having a sludge container;

[0008] Display screen; and

[0009] The controller is configured to control the image displayed on the screen.

[0010] in:

[0011] The waste container has a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, the waste container can receive waste separated from the airflow. In the open configuration, the waste container can be emptied of the waste contained therein.

[0012] The controller is configured to display video commands on the screen.

[0013] Vacuum cleaners that display video instructions can directly present necessary information to users, reducing or eliminating their need to refer to written or online manuals (or enticing users to try and operate the vacuum cleaner without referring to any instructions at all). Additionally, video instructions are generally easy to understand, and / or can reduce the need for text-based instructions (which can unsettle some users and require translation if the vacuum cleaner is to be sold in certain countries).

[0014] Video instructions may include those for the normal operation of the vacuum cleaner.

[0015] In other words, the screen can display one or more videos demonstrating to the user how to operate the vacuum cleaner when it is working properly. Some users may be particularly inclined to try using a vacuum cleaner for the first time without reading the instruction manual, potentially leading to misunderstandings about how to use it; therefore, the advantages mentioned above can be especially beneficial.

[0016] The video commands for normal operation include commands for moving the waste container from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

[0017] In addition to the benefits discussed above, showing users how to empty the container can also indicate when the container is full, and / or indicate whether the container is in an open or closed configuration. Furthermore, opening the container can be one of the less intuitive operations of using a vacuum cleaner, as the mechanism can be relatively complex; therefore, demonstrating how to do this can be particularly beneficial.

[0018] The video commands used for normal operation may include commands for moving the waste container from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0019] Just as showing users how to empty a container can serve as an indication of whether the container is in an open or closed configuration, demonstrating how to close a container can also be helpful. Similarly, closing a container can be one of the less intuitive operations when using a vacuum cleaner, so showing users how to do it can be particularly beneficial.

[0020] The video commands used for normal operation may include commands for cleaning the filter assembly of the vacuum cleaner.

[0021] Some users are particularly prone to forgetting (or neglecting) the need to clean the filter assembly of their vacuum cleaners, so video instructions can provide a particularly important reminder. Furthermore, cleaning the filter can be one of the less intuitive tasks required when using a vacuum cleaner, so clear instructions in this regard can be especially helpful.

[0022] Video instructions can include video instructions used to resolve problems.

[0023] In other words, the screen can display video instructions for locating and / or handling malfunctions of the vacuum cleaner.

[0024] The video instructions used to resolve the problem include video instructions for locating obstructions in the airflow path.

[0025] Vacuum cleaner blockage is a particularly common malfunction in vacuum cleaners, so video instructions that allow users to locate and / or remove the blockage can be especially beneficial.

[0026] Video instructions may include video instructions for assembling and / or disassembling the vacuum cleaner.

[0027] For example, video instructions may include a video showing the user how to remove the filter from a vacuum cleaner for cleaning (in this case, the video can be considered a video instruction for normal operation of the vacuum cleaner). As another example, video instructions may include a video showing the user how to remove the stick and cleaning head from a stick vacuum cleaner to locate blockages (therefore, the video can be considered a video instruction for troubleshooting).

[0028] The controller can be configured to automatically display video instructions on the screen when a relevant condition is detected in the vacuum cleaner.

[0029] This allows the display of video instructions to serve as an alert to the user, reminding them to take action, and / or to display information to the user without requiring them to perform any other action (e.g., pressing a button) to access it.

[0030] The controller can also be configured to selectively cut off power to the vacuum cleaner when it is detected that the vacuum cleaner is in the aforementioned condition.

[0031] This can further enhance the ability of video commands to function as alerts. While using a vacuum cleaner, a user might not notice the displayed video commands, but if the vacuum motor unexpectedly stops, the user might look at the screen for an explanation.

[0032] The video instructions may include a set of instructions consisting of several shorter sub-videos played in succession.

[0033] This can be beneficial because it breaks down task-specific video instructions into more manageable segments. For example, if a video were to be displayed on screen showing how to remove a filter, clean it, and then reinstall it, a user might find it difficult to follow all of these steps immediately. Therefore, a video broken down into sub-videos makes it easier for the user to follow along.

[0034] The vacuum cleaner may also include a user-actuable control element that communicates with a controller configured to move from one sub-video to the next when the control element is actuated.

[0035] Users can control when nested sub-videos are displayed sequentially on the screen, allowing them to adjust the timing of video instructions to suit them and thus confirm when they are ready to watch the next sub-video.

[0036] The controller can be configured to automatically advance through sub-videos.

[0037] Some users may find manually navigating through sub-videos unpleasant. Therefore, it could be beneficial for the controller to autonomously display sub-videos.

[0038] In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to automatically advance through sub-videos, but the user may also override it and advance from one video to the next by actuating control elements.

[0039] The controller can be configured to cause a pause between each sub-video.

[0040] Using pauses between sub-videos ensures that users have enough time to follow each sub-video before the next video begins.

[0041] The controller can be configured to repeat each sub-video at least once.

[0042] For example, in the case where the controller automatically advances through sub-videos, the controller may display each sub-video two, three, or more times before automatically advancing to the next sub-video. As another example, where the controller advances through sub-videos while actuating a control component, the controller may cyclically repeat each sub-video until the control component is actuated.

[0043] Repeated playback of sub-videos ensures that users have the opportunity to rewatch them if they miss them or realize they misunderstood them during the first viewing.

[0044] The video instructions may include a visual timer, such as a countdown timer or a progress bar, to indicate to the user their progress in watching a specific video or sub-video. Alternatively or additionally, the video instructions may include images or animations to indicate that the video or sub-video has ended. For example, the video or sub-video may end with the display of a green scale line, a smiley face, or a checkered flag. This avoids the risk of the user continuing to watch the screen after the video ends without knowing whether other instructions will be displayed.

[0045] Vacuum cleaners can be handheld vacuum cleaners, which also include a pistol grip positioned generally transversely to the longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner from its front end to its rear end, and an air inlet located in front of the pistol grip.

[0046] As an alternative, the vacuum cleaner can be a handheld vacuum cleaner with different configurations, or another form of vacuum cleaner, such as an upright or cylindrical vacuum cleaner.

[0047] The screen can face backward. Typically, to use such a vacuum cleaner, the user holds it with a pistol grip and then "points" its longitudinal axis towards the area to be cleaned, similar to aiming a pistol at a target, thus guiding the air intake (or the suction tool attached to it) towards that area. The electronic vision display faces roughly backward, meaning it is more clearly visible to the user during use. In contrast, if the electronic vision display were facing a different direction, the user might have to stop using the vacuum cleaner and reposition it to view the display.

[0048] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a stick vacuum cleaner is provided, comprising:

[0049] A handheld vacuum cleaner according to a first aspect of the present invention;

[0050] The cleaning head, which defines the suction inlet; and

[0051] The long, rigid rod defines the suction path from the cleaning head to the air inlet of the handheld vacuum cleaner. The rod is positioned substantially parallel to or collinear with the longitudinal axis.

[0052] The stick and cleaning head allow handheld vacuum cleaners, which offer the aforementioned advantages, to be used more effectively for floor cleaning. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0054] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a rod-type vacuum cleaner according to the present invention;

[0055] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a stick vacuum cleaner and a handheld vacuum cleaner;

[0056] Figure 3 Is it through Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a handheld vacuum cleaner;

[0057] Figure 4 yes Figure 2Rear perspective view of a handheld vacuum cleaner, with the filter assembly separated from it;

[0058] Figure 5 yes Figures 2 to 4 A side view of a handheld vacuum cleaner with the waste container in an open configuration;

[0059] Figures 6A to 6H These are still images of a video instruction set on how to disassemble, clean, and reattach the filter assembly of a vacuum cleaner;

[0060] Figures 7A to 7G It is a still image of a video instruction set showing how to move the waste container of a handheld vacuum cleaner to a closed configuration; and

[0061] Figures 8A to 8G It is a collection of still images from a sub-video, which are used to locate obstructions in the airflow path of a stick vacuum cleaner.

[0062] Throughout the specification and accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals denote corresponding features. Detailed Implementation

[0063] Figure 1 A stick vacuum cleaner 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The stick vacuum cleaner 2 includes a handheld vacuum cleaner 4, which is connected to a floor tool 6 in the form of a cleaning head via an elongated rigid stick 8. In this case, the stick can be attached to the air inlet 10 of the handheld vacuum cleaner and the rear conduit 12 of the cleaning head. The stick 8 is generally tubular, and the internal space forms a suction path that extends from the cleaning head 6 to the air inlet 10 of the handheld vacuum cleaner 4.

[0064] The cleaning head 6 has a base plate 14 configured to engage with the floor surface and has a suction port (not visible) through which dirty air (i.e., air carrying dirt) from the floor surface can be drawn into the cleaning head 6. In use, a vacuum motor (not shown) housed in the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 generates suction at the air inlet 10. Dirty air from the floor surface is drawn into the cleaning head 6 through the suction port (not visible) in the base plate 14, and then enters the air inlet 10 of the handheld vacuum cleaner along the interior of the rod 8.

[0065] The stick 8 is releasably attached to the handheld vacuum cleaner 4, allowing the handheld vacuum cleaner to be used independently (or with a tool attached to the air inlet 10). The stick 8 is also releasably attached to the cleaning head 6, so different floor tools can be fitted to the stick. Additionally, the rear conduit 12 of the cleaning head can be directly attached to the air inlet 10 of the handheld vacuum cleaner, allowing the cleaning head 6 to be used in conjunction with the handheld vacuum cleaner 4, rather than being limited to its use as part of the stick vacuum cleaner 2.

[0066] The handheld vacuum cleaner 4 defines a longitudinal axis 16 extending from the front end 18 to the rear end 20. The longitudinal axis 16 intersects the air inlet 10. When a rod 8 is attached to the handheld vacuum cleaner 4, the rod 8 is parallel to the longitudinal axis 16 (in this case, collinear with it). The handheld vacuum cleaner also includes a pistol grip 22, which is positioned laterally to the longitudinal axis 16. The pistol grip 22 is located behind the air inlet 10, i.e., the axial position of the pistol grip is closer to the rear end 20 than the air inlet. In other words, the air inlet 10 is located in front of the pistol grip 22 (i.e., the axial position of the air inlet is closer to the front end 18 than the pistol grip).

[0067] Figures 2 to 5 The handheld vacuum cleaner 4 is shown separately. Figure 2 and Figure 3 A handheld vacuum cleaner 4 is shown ready for use, and Figure 3 A handheld vacuum cleaner 4 with the filter assembly 44 removed is shown. Now, it will be combined... Figure 1 The handheld vacuum cleaner 4 is further described with reference to these accompanying figures.

[0068] As described above, the pistol grip 22 is positioned laterally to the longitudinal axis 16. In this configuration, the pistol grip 22 is positioned at an angle of approximately 75 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 16. Figure 1-3 As shown, with the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 positioned so that the longitudinal axis 16 is horizontal, the pistol grip 22 can be positioned in a generally vertical orientation, extending from the lower end 24 to the upper end 26. The upper end 26 has a trigger 28, which forms an on / off switch for the handheld vacuum cleaner 4.

[0069] The handheld vacuum cleaner 4 includes a first housing 30 located at the upper end 26 of the pistol grip 22 and a second housing 32 located at the lower end 24 of the pistol grip 22. The first housing 30 and the second housing 32 are attached to each other by the pistol grip 22 and a support post 34, which in this case extends generally parallel to the pistol grip 22.

[0070] In this embodiment, the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 is battery powered. An array of batteries (not visible) is disposed in a second housing 32, forming a battery pack with the batteries. In some embodiments, the battery pack may be removable, but in this case, it is permanently attached. The batteries are rechargeable and can be charged in the field by plugging a charging cable into a charging port (not shown) of the handheld vacuum cleaner 4.

[0071] The first housing 30 includes a motor housing 38 and a separator support 40. The motor housing 38 is generally elongated and defines a longitudinal axis that is collinear with the longitudinal axis 16. The motor housing 38 houses a vacuum motor 42 and supports a filter assembly 44. The vacuum motor 42 includes a motor 46 and an impeller 48. The motor 46 is configured to receive power from a battery (not shown) to drive the impeller 48 to rotate about a motor axis, in this case, collinear with the longitudinal axis 16. The rotation of the impeller 48 creates an airflow (discussed in more detail below) through the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 and thereby generates suction at the air inlet 10.

[0072] A separator support 40 supports a dirt separator 50 configured to remove dirt from air drawn into a handheld vacuum cleaner 4 through an air inlet 10. The dirt separator 50 in this embodiment includes a first separation stage 52 and a second separation stage 54. The first separation stage 52 has a single cyclone chamber 56 formed by the upper part of a transparent housing 58, a porous cylindrical shroud 60, and a first dirt container 62 formed by the lower part of the housing 58 and an openable lid 64 pivotable about a hinge (not shown). The housing 58 takes the form of a cylindrical outer wall, which is concentrically positioned about a longitudinal axis 16. With the housing 58 concentrically positioned, the axis of rotation of the first separation stage 52 (i.e., the axis of rotation of the cyclone formed inside the cyclone chamber 56) is collinear with the longitudinal axis.

[0073] Behind the shroud 60 is an air passage 66 that surrounds the inner wall 68 and leads to the second separation stage 54. The second separation stage 54 has a plurality of cyclone chambers 70 arranged in parallel. Each cyclone chamber 70 has a corresponding tangential inlet 72 branching from the air passage 66, an open end 74 configured as a sludge outlet, and an air outlet in the form of a vortex deflector 76. The second separation stage 54 also has a second sludge container 78 defined between the inner wall 68 and a duct 80 of the air inlet 10. The duct 80 is generally elongated and defines an inlet axis that is parallel to, and in this case, collinear with, the longitudinal axis 16.

[0074] The filter assembly 44 includes a housing 82, a pre-motor filter assembly 84, and a post-motor filter assembly 86. The housing 82 defines a pair of grid-like air outlets 88 through which clean air (i.e., air from which at least some entrained dirt is separated) is discharged from the handheld vacuum cleaner 4. The pre-motor filter assembly 84 is located upstream of the vacuum motor 42 and downstream of the dirt separator 50, and is configured to filter out small dirt particles that are not removed by the dirt separator 50 before they can reach the vacuum motor 42. The pre-motor filter assembly 84 comprises layered clumps of porous felt, in this case including a layer of electrostatic felt, for example, sold under the name 'Technostat'. The post-motor filter assembly 86 is located downstream of the vacuum motor 42 and upstream of the air outlets 88. The post-motor filter assembly 86 is configured to filter any dirt particles that may be released by the motor 46 (e.g., debris from the carbon brushes of the motor 46). In this case, the post-motor filter assembly 86 is a pleated glass fiber HEPA filter. Filter components 84 and 86 are annular and share a common axis, which in this embodiment is collinear with the longitudinal axis 16. Alternatively, the entire filter assembly 44 is annular and positioned substantially concentrically about the longitudinal axis 16.

[0075] In this embodiment, the filter assembly 44 is a user-removable component, allowing the user to remove the filter assembly for cleaning of the filter components 84, 86. The dirt separator 50, the first housing 30, and the filter assembly 44 together form an elongated body 93, whose longitudinal axis is collinear with the longitudinal axis 16 of the handheld vacuum cleaner. The filter assembly 44 can be removed from the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 by slightly rotating it about the longitudinal axis 16 to disengage it from the lug 89 provided on the motor housing 38, and then moving it rearward in the direction of the longitudinal axis 16.

[0076] When attached to the handheld vacuum cleaner 4, the filter assembly 44 is fitted around the motor barrel 38a of the motor housing 38 like a sleeve, such that it axially overlaps with the vacuum motor 44 (both the motor 46 and the impeller 48) and protrudes into the outer cover 38b of the motor housing. The motor barrel 38a has a front array of orifices 90 providing fluid communication between the front filter assembly 84 and the motor 46, and a rear array of orifices 92 providing fluid communication between the motor 46 and the rear filter assembly 86.

[0077] The handheld vacuum cleaner 4 includes a screen 100, more specifically a flat, full-color backlit TFT screen, which is mounted on the rear-facing back of the motor housing 38a. On the opposite side of the screen is a controller 101 in the form of a PCB. The controller 101 is configured to receive power from a battery and display information to the user on the screen, as discussed in more detail later.

[0078] The screen 100 faces substantially exactly rearward (i.e., substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis). It is positioned on the first housing 30 (more specifically, on the motor barrel 38a, behind the vacuum motor 42), thus radially above the pistol grip 22 for easy viewing. Except above it, the screen 100 is axially positioned behind the pistol grip 22. In effect, the screen 100 is positioned on the rearmost surface 103 of the handheld vacuum cleaner so that it is not obscured by components of the handheld vacuum cleaner located behind it. The screen 100 is positioned such that it intersects the longitudinal axis 16.

[0079] The screen 100 is visible through an opening 102 in the filter assembly 44, which takes the form of a circular through-hole in the housing 82 of the filter assembly 44. In this case, the screen 100 is slightly recessed relative to the housing 82, so that the screen can be seen when viewed through the opening 102. However, in other cases, the core 38 of the motor housing 30 may extend slightly further rearward, so that the screen 100 protrudes through the opening 102 and is located outside the housing 82.

[0080] A pair of control members 104a and 104b are located below the screen 100 (in the vertical direction defined by the pistol grip 22), each control member being located near the screen 100 and configured to receive control input from the user. In this case, each control member 104a and 104b takes the form of a button. Like the screen 100, each control member 104a and 104b faces rearward. The control members 104a and 104b are pressed by pushing them forward in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 16. In this embodiment, the buttons 104a and 104b are used to change the suction power level of the vacuum cleaner 4.

[0081] To use the stick vacuum cleaner 2, the user holds the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 with the pistol grip 22, the index and middle fingers gripping the upper end 26, and the ring and little fingers gripping the lower end 24. When the user's wrist is extended, this makes the longitudinal axis 16 substantially straight with the user's forearm. The user can then point the longitudinal axis 16 of the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 toward the area of ​​the floor to be cleaned (by moving their forearm and / or wrist), thereby pointing the air inlet 10, the stick 8, and the cleaning head 6 toward that area.

[0082] When the user squeezes trigger 28 with their index finger, power from the battery is transmitted through wires (not visible) to motor 46, which rotates impeller 48. The impeller creates an airflow through the vacuum cleaner, drawing air into inlet 10 and expelling it from outlet 88. This creates suction at inlet 10, drawing air into stick vacuum cleaner 2. The airflow travels through an airflow channel that extends from the intake port (not shown) of base plate 14 to the outlet 88 of filter assembly 44, and through cleaning head 6, stick 8, and handheld vacuum cleaner 4.

[0083] Dirty air entering the inlet 10 from the cleaning head 6 via the rod 8 passes through the duct 80, whose end 94 radially rotates the airflow outwards, then tangentially guides it into the cyclone chamber 56 of the first separation stage 52. The air then swirls around the cyclone chamber 56, where coarser contaminants are separated from the air by centrifugal force and deposited into the first contaminant container 62. The air separated from the coarser contaminants then passes through the shroud 60, air passage 66, and enters the second separation stage 54. The air is then split into a series of streams, each entering one of the cyclone chambers 70 through its inlet 72, where a cyclone forms. Finer contaminants are separated by centrifugal force and ejected from the open end 74 of the cyclone chamber 70 into the second contaminant container 78, while the air, now free of fine contaminants, exits the cyclone chamber 70 through the vortex deflector 76. The separated streams are then guided from the vortex deflector 76 into the filter assembly 44. The air is then guided roughly radially inward, passing through the pre-motor filter assembly 84, through the orifice 90, and into the motor 46. It then travels axially along the motor 46 through the impeller 48, through the orifice 92, and through the post-motor filter assembly 86. Finally, the clean air is exhausted from the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 through the air outlet 88.

[0084] Figures 1 to 4 A first waste container 62 is shown in a closed configuration, in which it can receive waste separated from the airflow by the first separator stage 52. The first waste container 62 is movable to an open configuration, in which the waste contained therein can be emptied (e.g., placed in a bag or trash can). This is done by manipulating a handle 106 located below the separator support 40 but mounted to the housing 58. The mechanism for moving the first waste container 62 between the open and closed configurations is generally the same as that used in Dyson V10 series vacuum cleaners. This mechanism is not definitive for the purposes of this invention, but will be briefly discussed below for completeness.

[0085] To move the first waste container 62 from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the user removes the stick 8, holds the pistol grip 22 of the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 in one hand with the front generally facing down, and presses the handle 106 forward with the other hand. The handle 106 pivots forward, disengaging a clip on the handle 106 that holds it axially fixed relative to the separator support 40. The handle 106 can then slide axially forward, bringing the housing 58 and lid 64 along with it. As the lid 64 moves forward with the housing 58 and handle 106, it disengages from the inner wall 68, allowing waste from the second waste container 78 to fall into the first waste container 62.

[0086] As the container slides forward, an annular wiping head 108 mounted at its rear end slides past the guard 60 to scrape away any dirt adhering to the guard 60. When the handle 106, container 58, and lid 64 have traveled forward sufficiently, a cam-driven push rod (not shown) forces open the lid latch 109 that holds the lid 64 against the container 58. Then, under the influence of gravity and a torsion spring within the hinge 111, the lid 64 can pivot away from the container about the hinge 111. The first waste container 62 is then in an open configuration, as... Figure 5 As shown. Dirt can fall out from box 58.

[0087] The user then begins to move the first waste container 62 back to the closed configuration by pushing the lid 64 backward. The lid 64 pivots back about the hinge 111, and the latch 109 rests on the container 58, then the lid 64, container 58, and handle 106 move backward. A cam-driven push rod (not shown) retracts during this backward movement. When the container 58, lid 64, and handle 64 reach the end of their backward movement, the lid latch 109 and the latch holding the handle 106 relative to the separator support 40 re-engage with the separator support 40 and the container 58, respectively.

[0088] As described above, the controller 101 displays information to the user on the screen 100. More specifically, it displays video instructions for the normal operation of the vacuum cleaner 2, and displays video instructions for troubleshooting when the vacuum cleaner 2 malfunctions.

[0089] One of the video instruction sets that the controller 101 can display on the screen 100, particularly one for normal operation, is the video instruction for cleaning the filter assembly 44. The controller 101 detects when the vacuum cleaner is in a state of filter clogging (in this case, by monitoring a steady decrease in airflow rate using a sensor array, as is known). When it detects filter clogging, it automatically displays a video on the screen 100 showing the user how to remove the filter assembly 44, how to clean and replace it. However, if the user wishes to continue using the vacuum cleaner (e.g., to finish cleaning the specific surface they are vacuuming), they can. The controller 101 will continue to repeat the video instruction until (again by monitoring the flow rate) it detects that the filter has been cleaned.

[0090] In this case, the video instructions used for filter cleaning consist of a single, continuous video stream, whose still images are as follows: Figures 6A to 6H As shown. Refer to these figures and combine them with... Figure 1-4 The first part of the video instruction set demonstrates to the user how to disassemble filter assembly 44 by rotating the filter assembly and then moving it axially backward. This is in Figure 6A As shown in the video. The video then shows the interior of the motor-driven post-filter assembly 86 running under the faucet, indicating to the user that they should do so. This is in Figure 6B As shown in the image.

[0091] The video then shows the exterior of the pre-motor filter assembly 84 operating under the faucet, as... Figure 6C As shown. Then, it shows the filter assembly 44 placed in the user's hand and filled with water ( Figure 6D ),shake( Figure 6E ), then clear ( Figure 6F Then, the video shows filter assembly 44 being placed to dry ( ). Figure 6G Finally, it demonstrates reattaching the filter assembly 44 to the vacuum cleaner by sliding it onto the motor barrel 38a and rotating it to lock it in place. Figure 6H ).

[0092] It is worth noting that the video instructions described above demonstrate to the user how to disassemble and replace the filter assembly 44. Therefore, it serves as an example of video instructions for disassembling and assembling the handheld vacuum cleaner 4, as well as for cleaning the filter assembly 44.

[0093] It is worth noting that the video also includes a visual timer in the form of an arc-shaped progress bar 110, allowing the user to see how much longer the video will run. The video also displays an indication that the playback is complete. More specifically, when the progress bar 110 reaches its end, a small checkered flag 112 is displayed next to it. This confirms to the user that the process shown in the video has been completed.

[0094] Controller 101 is configured to display several other types of video instructions. For example, controller 101 may also display a video demonstrating to the user how to move the first waste container 62 to the closed position (another example of a video instruction used for normal operation). If the controller detects that the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 is in the state where the first container 62 is out of the closed position and the trigger 28 is pulled out, controller 101 displays this video on screen 100. This may indicate that the user has attempted to place the first waste container 62 in the closed position but mishandled it and is now attempting to use the vacuum cleaner 4.

[0095] If controller 101 detects that vacuum cleaner 4 is in this state and displays video instructions showing how to place the first dirt container 62 in the closed configuration, controller 101 will also cut off power to vacuum motor 42. This prevents the user from operating vacuum cleaner 4 with the container 58 partially open, which would prevent the vacuum cleaner from operating properly and could cause residual dust in the container to be released into the atmosphere. In the event that vacuum cleaner 4 is not working properly, the user will look at screen 100 for an explanation and will thus see video instructions to close the container.

[0096] The video command used to move the waste container 62 to the closed configuration is again in the form of a single continuous video, with still images such as Figures 7A to 7G As shown. Similar to Figures 6A to 6H The video shown here has a progress bar 110 that displays to the user how far they are from the end of the video at any given point. The video first shows the waste container 62 in an open configuration. Figure 7A ), and then it is shown that the lid 64 is pivoted back onto the end of the box 58 ( Figure 7B After the lid 64 returned to the box 58 ( Figure 7C The video shows box 58, lid 64, and handle 106 moving backward. Figure 7D Once these components reach the end of their rearward travel, the video shows the handle 106 moving back to align with the separator support 40, the cover 64 closing on the end of the housing 58, and the clips (not shown) re-engaging, and the rear edge of the housing 58 returning to sit abut against the second separator stage 54. Figure 7E The red markings 114 emanating from these parts of the machine indicate to the user that they should hear these parts "click" back into place.

[0097] At this point, the video has completed the animation of the process to be performed by the user. The video ends by showing the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 in a closed configuration with the waste container 68. Figure 7F Then, the checkered flag 112 is displayed to indicate that the video command has been completed. Figure 7G ).

[0098] In addition to displaying video instructions for the normal operation of the stick vacuum cleaner 2 (or handheld vacuum cleaner 4), the controller 101 can also display video instructions on the screen 100 for troubleshooting. More specifically, it can display video instructions for locating blockages in the airflow path of the stick vacuum cleaner 2.

[0099] Unlike the video instructions described above, this video instruction set uses a set of sub-videos displayed sequentially. In this case, the controller 101 displays each sub-video twice, then initiates a pause in video playback (5 seconds in this example), and then proceeds to the next sub-video. A still image of each sub-video is shown below. Figures 8A to 8G As shown.

[0100] exist Figure 8A In the first sub-video shown, the video is "zoomed in" at the intersection between rod 8 and air intake 10, showing rod 8 separating from air intake 8. Figure 8B The second sub-video shows the first waste container 62 and the second waste container 78 being moved to an open configuration. The sub-video shows the handle 106 pivoting, the handle 106, the container 58, and the lid 64 sliding open, with the lid opening to allow waste to escape from the container. The third sub-video ( Figure 8C This shows that with lid 64 closed, box 58 slides back to return waste containers 62, 78 to their respective closed configurations.

[0101] Fourth sub-video ( Figure 8D The video demonstrates to the user that they should look up at the air inlet 10 of the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 and then down at the stick 8. In this case, the user is shown looking in these directions through a pair of glasses 116 and animated arrows 118. (Fifth sub-video) Figure 8E The video shows the cleaning head 6 being removed from the rod 8, and then demonstrates to the user (again using glasses 116 and arrow 118) that they should look down at the rear conduit 12 of the cleaning head and then up at the rod 8. In the sixth sub-video ( Figure 8F In the image, glasses 116 and arrow 118 indicate that the user should look upwards at the cleaning head 6 through the suction port in the base plate 14.

[0102] The seventh and final sub-video ( Figure 8GThe video shows the stick vacuum cleaner 2 being reassembled. It shows the cleaning head 6 being reattached to the stick 8, and then the stick being reattached to the handheld vacuum cleaner 4. The sub-video then shows the trigger 28 being pulled to indicate to the user (assuming they have removed any obstructions encountered during the above process) that the vacuum cleaner 2 is ready for use. To reinforce this, the sub-video again shows the checkered flag 112.

[0103] A blockage in the airflow path of a vacuum cleaner can cause the vacuum motor to overheat and / or result in a sharp decline in cleaning performance. Therefore, when the controller 101 detects a blockage in the vacuum cleaner (as is known, in this case, by observing a sudden drop in airflow velocity), the controller cuts off power to the vacuum motor 42. This protects the vacuum motor 42 from damage and avoids the risk of the user continuing to attempt cleaning with the vacuum cleaner 2. It can also notify the user of the malfunction, at which point they will look at the screen 100 for further information.

[0104] It is worth noting that, since this video instruction set demonstrates to the user how to separate the handheld vacuum cleaner 4, cleaning head 6, and stick 8, it is an example of video instructions for disassembling and assembling the stick vacuum cleaner 2. Additionally, as mentioned above, the second sub-video demonstrates to the user how to empty the waste containers 62 and 78. Therefore, this sub-video (and the entire video) is also an example of video instructions for moving the waste container to an open configuration (which is also an example of video instructions used normally).

[0105] It will be understood that various modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. For example, although in the above embodiments the waste containers 62, 78 are moved to the open configuration by sliding the box 58 forward and opening the lid 64, in another embodiment there may be a single waste container, which may take the form of a bottom-closed cup, which can be removed from the vacuum cleaner and poured onto the trash can to empty it.

[0106] As another example, although buttons 104a and 104b are used to control the power mode of the handheld vacuum cleaner 4 in the above embodiment, they may alternatively or additionally perform other functions. For example, one or both of buttons 104a and 104b may be used to manually cycle through sub-videos instead of the controller automatically advancing through the sub-videos. Alternatively or additionally, one of the buttons may allow the user to freely pause and cancel pause and / or rewind video commands.

[0107] To avoid any doubt, in the embodiments described above, video instructions for moving the dust container between the open and closed configurations have been described with respect to the first dust container 62. However, it should be understood that these video instructions also demonstrate to the user how to move the second dust container 78 between the open and closed configurations.

[0108] While the video instructions above show each stage of the process in question, this should not be construed as limiting. The set of video instructions may only show a portion of the process in question (e.g., the part considered most counterintuitive).

[0109] To avoid doubt, the aforementioned optional and / or preferred features may be used in any suitable combination, particularly in the combinations listed in the appended claims. Where appropriate, features described with respect to one aspect of the invention may also be applied to another aspect of the invention.

Claims

1. A vacuum cleaner, comprising: A vacuum motor is configured to draw airflow through the airflow path of the vacuum cleaner. A sludge separator for separating sludge entrained in the airflow, the sludge separator having a sludge container; Display screen; as well as The controller is configured to control the image displayed on the screen. in: The waste container is configured to move between a closed configuration and an open configuration, in which the waste container can receive waste separated from the airflow, and in the open configuration, the waste container can be emptied of the waste contained therein; and The controller is configured to display video instructions on the screen. The controller is configured to automatically display video instructions on the screen when it detects that the vacuum cleaner is in a relevant condition, without requiring any additional user intervention. The controller is configured to selectively cut off power to the vacuum motor when it detects that the vacuum cleaner is in the aforementioned state. The video instructions include video instructions for the normal operation of the vacuum cleaner.

2. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1, wherein the video commands for normal operation include commands for moving the waste container from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

3. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1 or 2, wherein the video commands for normal operation include commands for moving the waste container from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

4. The vacuum cleaner as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the video instructions for normal operation include instructions for cleaning the filter assembly of the vacuum cleaner.

5. The vacuum cleaner as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the video instructions include video instructions for troubleshooting.

6. The vacuum cleaner of claim 5, wherein the video instructions for resolving the problem include video instructions for locating blockages in the airflow path.

7. The vacuum cleaner as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the video instructions include video instructions for assembling and / or disassembling the vacuum cleaner.

8. The vacuum cleaner as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the video instructions comprise a set of instructions consisting of a plurality of shorter sub-videos played in succession.

9. The vacuum cleaner of claim 8, wherein the controller is configured to automatically move forward through the sub-video.

10. The vacuum cleaner of claim 8 or 9, wherein the controller is configured to repeat each sub-video at least once.

11. The vacuum cleaner as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the vacuum cleaner is a handheld vacuum cleaner, further comprising: A pistol grip, which is positioned generally transversely to the longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner from its front end to its rear end; And an air intake located in front of the pistol grip.

12. A stick vacuum cleaner, comprising: The handheld vacuum cleaner as described in claim 11; Cleaning head, which has a defined suction inlet; as well as An elongated, rigid rod defines a suction path extending from the cleaning head to the air inlet of the handheld vacuum cleaner, the rod being positioned substantially parallel to or collinear with the longitudinal axis.

13. A vacuum cleaner, comprising: A vacuum motor is configured to draw airflow through the airflow path of the vacuum cleaner. A sludge separator for separating sludge entrained in the airflow, the sludge separator having a sludge container; Display screen; as well as The controller is configured to control the image displayed on the screen. in: The waste container is configured to move between a closed configuration and an open configuration, in which the waste container can receive waste separated from the airflow, and in the open configuration, the waste container can be emptied of the waste contained therein; and The controller is configured to display video instructions on the screen, the video instructions including a visual timer or image to indicate that the video instruction has been completed.

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