Vacuum cleaner and docking station for use with a vacuum cleaner

Abstract

A docking station for a vacuum cleaner can include a receiving portion configured to engage at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner such that, in response to engaging the receiving portion, a vacuum cleaner flow path extending within the vacuum cleaner is transitioned from a cleaning flow path to a venting flow path, a suction motor of the vacuum cleaner configured to push air along the vacuum cleaner flow path, and a docking station dirt cup configured to receive debris from a vacuum cleaner dirt cup of the vacuum cleaner.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of patent application No. 202080047897.7 (the corresponding international application No. is PCT / US2020 / 030991), filed on May 1, 2020, with a priority date of May 1, 2019, and entitled "Vacuum Cleaner and Docking Station for Use with Vacuum Cleaner".

[0002] Citation of relevant applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 841,548, filed May 1, 2019, entitled “Dock Station for Vacuum Cleaner,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to surface treatment equipment, and more particularly to vacuum cleaners and docking stations used with vacuum cleaners. Background Technology

[0005] Surface treatment equipment may include an upright vacuum cleaner configured to switch between a storage location and a usage location. The upright vacuum cleaner may include a suction motor configured to draw air into the air inlet of the upright vacuum cleaner in such a manner that debris deposited on the surface can be pushed into the air inlet. At least a portion of the debris pushed into the air inlet may be deposited in the dust collection cup of the upright vacuum cleaner for later processing. Attached Figure Description

[0006] These and other features and advantages will be better understood by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic side view of an example of a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 2 This is an example of docking with a docking station according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 1 A schematic side view of an example of a vacuum cleaner.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an example of a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 4 It is constructed according to embodiments of this disclosure as, for example, Figure 3 A three-dimensional diagram of an example of a docking station for a vacuum cleaner.

[0011] Figure 5 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 4 Another 3D view of the docking station.

[0012] Figure 6 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 4 Another 3D view of the docking station.

[0013] Figure 7 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 4 Another 3D view of the docking station.

[0014] Figure 8 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure and Figure 3 Vacuum cleaner combined with Figure 4 A 3D view of the docking station.

[0015] Figure 9 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 8 A three-dimensional view of the docking station and the vacuum cleaner, wherein the vacuum component of the vacuum cleaner is separated from the handle extension and surface cleaning head of the vacuum cleaner.

[0016] Figure 10 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a vacuum cleaner.

[0017] Figure 11A It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 3 Part of the vacuum cleaner and Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the docking station.

[0018] Figure 11B An example of an actuable valve in a clean position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0019] Figure 11C The diagram illustrates the emptying position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11B An example of an actuable valve.

[0020] Figure 11D An enlarged schematic diagram of an example of an evacuation hatch in the closed position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0021] Figure 11E The image shows the open position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11D An enlarged schematic diagram of an example of an evacuation hatch.

[0022] Figure 12 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure and Figure 4 docking stations Figure 3 Another cross-sectional view of a part of a vacuum cleaner.

[0023] Figure 13 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a vacuum cleaner, showing a wiper configured to move relative to the filter media.

[0024] Figure 14A This is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner coupled to a docking station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 14B It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure and Figure 14A A schematic example of a vacuum cleaner docked at a docking station.

[0026] Figure 15 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 14A A cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner.

[0027] Figure 16 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure and Figure 14A docking stations Figure 14A A cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner.

[0028] Figure 17 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure and Figure 14A docking stations Figure 14A Another cross-sectional view of the vacuum cleaner.

[0029] Figure 18 It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure and Figure 14A docking stations Figure 14A An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a vacuum cleaner.

[0030] Figure 19 A perspective view of the docking station drive shaft and the vacuum assembly drive shaft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0031] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of a wiper and a filter medium according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0032] This disclosure generally relates to a docking station for use with a vacuum cleaner. An exemplary docking station is configured to alter the airflow path within the vacuum cleaner, such that the airflow generated by the vacuum cleaner's suction motor can be used, for example, to push debris from the vacuum cleaner's dust collection cup into the docking station's dust collection cup. Discharging debris from the vacuum cleaner's dust collection cup to the docking station's dust collection cup when at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner engages (e.g., contacts) the docking station allows the vacuum cleaner's dust collection cup to have a reduced volume, which can reduce the size and / or weight of the vacuum cleaner.

[0033] Figure 1 A schematic example of a vacuum cleaner 100 is shown. As shown, the vacuum cleaner 100 includes: a surface cleaning head 102; a handle 105 coupled to a handle extension 104 such that the handle 105 and the handle extension 104 are fluidly coupled to the surface cleaning head 102; and a vacuum assembly 106 fluidly coupled to the handle 105. The vacuum assembly 106 may include a vacuum cleaner dust cup 108 and a suction motor 110. The suction motor 110 is configured to urge air along a cleaning flow path 112. The cleaning flow path 112 may extend from, for example, an inlet 114 of the surface cleaning head 102, through the handle extension 104 and the handle 105, through the suction motor 110 into the vacuum cleaner dust cup 108, and into the surrounding environment.

[0034] Vacuum assembly 106 can be detached from handle extension 104, allowing it to be used independently of handle extension 104 and / or surface cleaning head 102. For example, vacuum assembly 106 can be configured to connect to additional vacuum cleaning accessories when detached from handle extension 104 and / or surface cleaning head 102. In some cases, handle extension 104 and vacuum assembly 106 can be detached together from surface cleaning head 102, allowing them to be used independently of surface cleaning head 102.

[0035] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic example of a vacuum cleaner 100 engaging (e.g., contacting) with a docking station 200. The docking station 200 may include an upright portion 202 and a docking station dust cup 204, which is coupled to the upright portion 202 and configured to receive debris from the vacuum cleaner dust cup 108. When the vacuum cleaner 100 is engaged with the docking station 200 (e.g., engaging the vacuum assembly 106 with the docking station 200), debris is transported via the bypass handle extension 104 and the surface cleaning head 102. Figure 1 The cleaning flow path 112 is switched to the empty flow path 206. In other words, the vacuum cleaner flow path extending within the vacuum cleaner 100 (e.g., vacuum assembly 106) is switched from the cleaning flow path 112 to the empty flow path 206, wherein the suction motor 110 is configured to drive air to flow along the vacuum cleaner flow path. As shown, the empty flow path 206 extends from the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup 108 through the suction motor 110 into the docking station dust collection cup 204 and into the surrounding environment. Therefore, the air flowing along the empty flow path 206 pushes debris deposited in the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup 108 into the docking station dust collection cup 204, the airflow generated by the suction motor 110 of the vacuum cleaner 100.

[0036] Figure 3A perspective view of a vacuum cleaner 300 is shown. The vacuum cleaner 300 can be... Figure 1 An example of a vacuum cleaner 100 is shown. As illustrated, the vacuum cleaner 300 includes: a surface cleaning head 302; a handle 303 coupled to a handle extension 304, the handle 303 and handle extension 304 being fluidly coupled to the surface cleaning head 302; and a vacuum assembly 306 fluidly coupled to the handle 303. As shown, a first end 305 of the handle extension 304 can be coupled to the surface cleaning head 302, and a second end 307 of the handle extension 304 can be coupled to the handle 303. The surface cleaning head 302 includes one or more agitators 308 (e.g., rollers) configured to rotatably engage a surface (e.g., a floor) to be cleaned. In some cases, the surface cleaning head 302 may include a power source (e.g., one or more batteries) configured to power one or more motors, causing the one or more agitators 308 to rotate. Alternatively or optionally, the power source (e.g., one or more batteries) may be included, for example, in the vacuum assembly 306. In the case where the vacuum cleaner 300 includes multiple power sources (e.g., one power source in the surface cleaning head 302 and one power source in the vacuum assembly 306), the docking station (see, for example) Figure 4 It can include multiple charging points, each corresponding to its own power source.

[0037] Vacuum assembly 306 includes a vacuum cleaner dust cup 310 and a suction motor 312 (shown schematically in dashed lines). The suction motor 312 is configured to move air along a cleaning flow path 314. As shown, the cleaning flow path 314 extends from the air inlet 316 of the surface cleaning head 302, through the handle extension 304 and the handle 303, through the suction motor 312 into the vacuum cleaner dust cup 310, and into the surrounding environment. In some cases, one or more agitators 308 may be rotated in response to the air flowing along the cleaning flow path 314. For example, a pressure sensor may be included along the cleaning flow path 314 to detect changes in pressure along the cleaning flow path 314 (e.g., the generation of suction). When a pressure change is detected, the pressure sensor may transmit electrical power to one or more motors configured to rotate one or more agitators 308.

[0038] Figure 4 A perspective view of docking station 400 is shown. Docking station 400 can be... Figure 2An example of docking station 200. As shown, docking station 400 includes a base 402 configured to receive a surface cleaning head 302 of a vacuum cleaner 300, an upright portion 404 extending from the base 402, a vacuum assembly receiving portion 406 configured to receive (e.g., engage) at least a portion of a vacuum assembly 406, and a docking station dust collection cup 408 fluidly connected to the vacuum assembly receiving portion 406. The vacuum assembly receiving portion 406 may be coupled to the upright portion 404. For example, the base 402 and the vacuum assembly receiving portion 406 may be coupled to the upright portion 404 at opposite end regions.

[0039] The docking station dust collection cup 408 includes a dust collection cup hatch 410, which is configured to be in the closed position (see reference). Figure 5 ) and opening location (refer to Figure 6 The dust collection cup opening 410 can be switched between the open and closed positions (e.g., using a spring). When the dust collection cup opening 410 is in the open position, the user of docking station 400 can put debris into docking station dust collection cup 408 for later disposal.

[0040] like Figure 7 As shown, the docking station dust cup 408 can be removed from the docking station 400, allowing the dust cup 408 to be emptied. The docking station dust cup 408 may be configured to be removably coupled to a portion of the docking station 400 (e.g., the upright portion 404 and / or the vacuum assembly receiver 406) using, for example, a press-fit and / or snap-fit ​​connection. Alternatively or additionally, the docking station dust cup 408 may be configured to be removably coupled to the docking station 400 using, for example, an actuable latch.

[0041] Figure 8 A perspective view of the vacuum cleaner 300 connected to the docking station 400 is shown. As shown, at least a portion of the vacuum assembly 306 is received by the vacuum assembly receiving section 406. The vacuum assembly receiving section 406 is configured to switch the cleaning flow path 314 to the evacuation flow path 802. The evacuation flow path 802 bypasses the handle extension 304 and the surface cleaning head 302, so that the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup 310 is fluidly connected to the docking station dust collection cup 408. Therefore, the suction motor 312 can push debris in the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup 310 into the docking station dust collection cup 408.

[0042] Vacuum assembly receiver 406 may include a release device 804 configured to disengage the vacuum assembly 306 from the handle extension 304 and the vacuum assembly receiver 406 (see reference). Figure 9 When disengaged from the handle extension 304, the vacuum assembly 306 can be attached to one or more cleaning accessories (e.g., crevice cleaning tools).

[0043] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of an example of the vacuum assembly 306 and handle 303 disengaged from docking station 400 is shown. As shown, when disengaged from docking station 400, air flows along cleaning flow path 314. Cleaning flow path 314 extends from handle 303 through the filter medium 1002 of vacuum assembly 306 into vacuum cleaner dust cup 310, and then through suction motor 312 into motor front chamber 1004. Filter medium 1002 may extend within or define a portion of vacuum cleaner dust cup 310. As shown, air flowing through filter medium 1002 according to cleaning flow path 314 flows from the debris collection side 1005 of filter medium 1002 to the clean side 1007 of filter medium 1002. This can generally be referred to as the forward direction of airflow through filter medium 1002. Filter medium 1002 may be a mesh filter, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, and / or any other type of filter.

[0044] Motor forecourt 1004 includes motor forecourt hatch 1006, which is configured to be in a closed position (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 10 (as shown) and opening position (e.g., as shown) Figure 11A The valve 1101 switches between the closed and open positions (as shown). When in the closed position, it essentially prevents air from passing through the flow path regulating opening 1008, while when in the open position, air can pass through the flow path regulating opening 1008. Alternatively or additionally, the actuable valve 1101 may be fluidly connected to the flow path regulating opening 1008 (see example...). Figure 11B and Figure 11C ).like Figure 11B As shown, when the vacuum assembly 306 is disengaged from the docking station 400, the actuable valve 1101 is in the clean position, causing the dust collection cup opening 1103 to open and the flow path regulating opening 1008 to close. Figure 11C As shown, when the vacuum assembly 306 is engaged with the docking station 400, the actuable valve 1101 is in the venting position, causing the dust collection cup opening 1103 to close and the flow path regulating opening 1008 to open. Force can be applied to the actuable valve 1101 toward the clean position so that when the vacuum assembly 306 is disengaged from the docking station 400, the actuable valve 1101 switches to the clean position.

[0045] As shown in the figure, the vacuum cleaner dust cup 310 includes a handle hatch 1010. The handle hatch 1010 is configured in the open position (e.g., as shown in the figure). Figure 10 (as shown) and closing position (e.g., as shown) Figure 11AThe vacuum cleaner dust cup 310 is switched between the open and closed positions. When in the open position, air can pass through the handle 303 and enter the vacuum cleaner dust cup 310, while when in the closed position, air is essentially prevented from passing through the handle 303 and entering the vacuum cleaner dust cup 310. The vacuum cleaner dust cup 310 also includes an evacuation hatch 1012. The evacuation hatch 1012 is configured to, in the closed position (e.g., as shown)... Figure 10 (as shown) and opening position (e.g., as shown) Figure 11A The air vent 1014 changes between the closed and open positions. When in the closed position, air is essentially prevented from passing through the vent opening 1014, while when in the open position, air can pass through the vent opening 1014.

[0046] Figure 11D and Figure 11E An enlarged schematic diagram of an example of vent hatch 1012 is shown. Figure 11D As shown, the vent hatch 1012 can be held in the closed position by an actuable latch 1105. A latch force application mechanism 1107 (e.g., a spring) can be used to apply force to the actuable latch 1105 toward the latch position. Figure 11E As shown, the actuable latch 1105 can be configured to be actuated in response to engagement of the docking station 400, causing the vent hatch 1012 to move to the open position. The vent hatch 1012 can be configured to move to the open position in response to engagement of the vent hatch 1012 with the docking station 400. A hatch force-applying mechanism (e.g., a spring) can be used to apply force to the vent hatch 1012 toward the closed position, such that when the vent hatch 1012 is disengaged from the docking station 400, the vent hatch 1012 is pushed to the closed position.

[0047] Switching the motor front chamber hatch 1006, handle hatch 1010, and vent hatch 1012 between open and closed positions allows the airflow path of the vacuum cleaner to switch between cleaning path 314 and vent path 802. For example, when the motor front chamber hatch 1006 and vent hatch 1012 are in the closed position and the handle hatch 1010 is in the open position, air can flow through the vacuum assembly 306 along the cleaning path 314. By a further example, when the motor front chamber hatch 1006 and vent hatch 1012 are in the open position and the handle hatch 1010 is in the closed position, air can flow through the vacuum assembly 306 along the vent path 802.

[0048] Figure 11AA cross-sectional view of an example of a vacuum assembly 306 and handle 303 engaged with docking station 400 is shown. As shown, when docking station 400 is engaged, air flows along exhaust flow path 802. Exhaust flow path 802 extends from bypass channel 1102, passes through filter medium 1002 into vacuum cleaner dust cup 310 and docking station dust cup 408, passes through docking station dust cup filter 1104 into docking station duct 1106 and motor pre-chamber 1004, and passes through suction motor 312. As shown, air flowing through filter medium 1002 along exhaust flow path 802 flows from the cleaning side 1007 of filter medium 1002 to the debris collection side 1005 of filter medium 1002. This can generally be referred to as the reverse flow of air through filter medium 1002.

[0049] The bypass channel 1102 is configured to selectively fluidly connect the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup 310 to the surrounding environment. Therefore, when the bypass channel 1102 fluidly connects the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup 310 to the surrounding environment, the suction motor 312 draws air from the surrounding environment into the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup 310 via the bypass channel 1102. The air drawn into the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup 310 via the bypass channel 1102 flows in the opposite direction through the filter medium 1002. This configuration allows at least a portion of any debris adhering to the debris collection side 1005 of the filter medium 1002 to detach (fall off) from the debris collection side 1005 and be entrained in the air flowing along the exhaust path 802. At least a portion of the air-entrained debris can be deposited in the docking station dust collection cup 408.

[0050] The bypass passage 1102 may be at least partially defined in one or more vacuum components 306 and / or docking stations 400. As shown, the bypass passage 1102 is jointly defined by a vacuum component portion 1108 defined in the vacuum component 306 and a docking station portion 1110 defined in the vacuum component receiving portion 406 of the docking station 400. The vacuum component portion 1108 of the bypass passage 1102 may include a valve 1112 configured to selectively fluidly connect the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup 310 to the surrounding environment. For example, the valve 1112 may be configured to move from a closed position (e.g., as...) in response to the vacuum cleaner 300 engaging the docking station 400. Figure 10 (As shown) Switch to the open position (e.g., as shown) Figure 11A (As shown).

[0051] As shown in the figure, the bypass channel 1102 (e.g., docking station 1110) includes a turbine 1114, which is configured to rotate in response to air passing through it (e.g., air flowing along the exhaust flow path 802). The turbine 1114 can be coupled to a docking station drive shaft 1116, such that the docking station drive shaft 1116 rotates together with the turbine 1114. The docking station drive shaft 1116 is configured to engage a vacuum assembly drive shaft 1118 when the vacuum cleaner 300 engages the docking station 400, such that the vacuum assembly drive shaft 1118 rotates together with the docking station drive shaft 1116. For example, as... Figure 11A As shown, the vacuum assembly drive shaft 1118 and the docking station drive shaft 1116 may include corresponding friction couplings 1115 and 1117. Further examples, such as... Figure 12 As shown, a transmission system 1200 including multiple gears 1202 can rotatably connect the docking station drive shaft 1116 to the vacuum assembly drive shaft 1118. Rotation of the vacuum assembly drive shaft 1118 causes the wiper 1120 of the vacuum assembly 306 (e.g., vacuum cleaner dust cup 310) to move relative to the filter medium 1002. For example, the wiper 1120 can be oscillated by a swing angle (e.g., 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 225° and / or any other angle). For example, the vacuum assembly drive shaft 1118 can be coupled to a swing arm 1119 such that the swing arm 1119 moves together with the vacuum assembly drive shaft 1118. A swing rod 1121 can be coupled to the swing arm 1119 and the wiper 1120 such that the swing rod 1121 extends transversely to the swing arm 1119 and moves about the axis of rotation of the vacuum assembly drive shaft 1118. Therefore, the rotation of the swing arm 1121 causes the wiper 1120 to swing. In other words, the wiper 1120 is generally described as being configured to move in response to the rotation of the turbine 1114.

[0052] Movement (e.g., oscillation) of the wiper 1120 relative to the filter medium 1002 can detach at least a portion of any debris adhering to the debris collection side 1005 of the filter medium 1002 from the debris collection side. The wiper 1120 may be spaced apart from the filter medium 1002 such that the wiper does not engage (e.g., contact) the filter medium 1002. For example, the wiper 1120 may be configured such that air can flow through a defined wiper channel 1122. The wiper channel 1122 is fluidly coupled to a bypass channel 1102 such that air flowing along the drain flow path 802 flows through the bypass channel 1102 and the wiper channel 1122 before flowing in the reverse direction through the filter medium 1002. The wiper channel 1122 may be configured to increase the airflow velocity through the wiper channel (e.g., the width of the wiper channel 1122 may be reduced from the wiper channel inlet 1124 to the wiper channel outlet 1126). For example, the outlet width 1128 of the wiper channel outlet 1126 (refer to...) Figure 13 (This can be achieved with a filter width of 1130 on filter medium 1002 (refer to...) Figure 13 The measurement ranges from 1% to 25%. The increased airflow velocity exiting the wiper channel 1122 better propels debris adhering to the filter media 1002 from the debris collection side 1005. The oscillation of the wiper 1120 allows the wiper channel outlet 1126 to have a smaller / narrower surface relative to the clean side 1007 of the filter media 1002.

[0053] Figure 13 A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the vacuum assembly 306 is shown. For the purpose of illustrating the oscillation, the wiper 1120 is shown in a first position 1302 and a second position 1304.

[0054] Figure 14A A perspective view of a vacuum cleaner 1400 engaged with docking station 1402 is shown. The vacuum cleaner 1400 can be respectively... Figure 1 Vacuum cleaner 100 and Figure 2An example of docking station 200. As shown, vacuum cleaner 1400 includes: a surface cleaning head 1404; a handle 1406 coupled to a handle extension 1408, the handle 1406 and handle extension 1408 being fluidly coupled to the surface cleaning head 1404; and a vacuum assembly 1410 fluidly coupled to the handle 1406. Vacuum assembly 1410 includes a vacuum cleaner dust cup 1412 and a suction motor 1414 (shown schematically in dashed lines). Surface cleaning head 1404 may include one or more agitators configured to rotate by one or more motors. The one or more motors may be powered by a power source 1405 (e.g., one or more batteries). Power source 1405 may be included in surface cleaning head 1404. Additionally or alternatively, handle extension 1408 and / or vacuum assembly 1410 may include power source 1405 (e.g., one or more batteries). In some cases, the one or more motors driving the one or more agitators may be powered in response to a pressure sensor detecting a pressure change due to activation of suction motor 1414. In other words, one or more agitators can be made to rotate in response to a detected change in pressure.

[0055] In some cases, the vacuum cleaner 1400 includes multiple power sources 1405 (e.g., one power source in the surface cleaning head 1404, one power source in the handle extension 1408, and / or one power source in the vacuum assembly 1410). In these cases, the docking station 1402 may include multiple charging contacts, with each power source 1405 having a corresponding charging contact. The charging contacts of each power source 1405 may be associated with a dedicated charging circuit. Therefore, each power source 1405 can be recharged independently. This configuration allows the remaining power level of each power source 1405 to be taken into account when recharging the power sources 1405, so that, for example, one or more power sources 1405 are not overcharged. Figure 14BA schematic example of a vacuum cleaner 1400 and a docking station 1402 is shown, wherein a surface cleaning head 1404 includes a first power supply 1428, a handle extension 1408 includes a second power supply 1430, and a vacuum assembly 1410 includes a third power supply 1432. The first power supply 1428, the second power supply 1430, and the third power supply 1432 correspond to respective charging contacts 1434, 1436, and 1438, respectively, wherein each charging contact 1434, 1436, and 1438 is electrically connected to its respective charging circuit. Therefore, the first power supply 1428, the second power supply 1430, and the third power supply 1432 can all be recharged independently. As shown, charging contacts 1434, 1436, and 1438 include a docking station half electrically connected to a power supply of docking station 1402 and a vacuum cleaner half electrically connected to a corresponding power supply of power supplies 1428, 1430, and 1432. In some cases, when engaging docking station 1402, the construction, orientation, and / or position of at least a portion of vacuum cleaner 1400 can be adjusted such that an electrical connection can be formed between corresponding halves of one or more charging contacts 1434, 1436, and / or 1438. Power supplies 1428, 1430, and 1432 can be examples of power supply 1405.

[0056] Back Figure 14A The figure also shows that docking station 1402 includes: a base 1420 configured to receive a surface cleaning head 1404 of vacuum cleaner 1400; an upright portion 1422 extending from the base 1420; a vacuum assembly receiving portion 1424 configured to receive at least a portion of vacuum assembly 1410; and a docking station dust collection cup 1426 fluidly connected to the vacuum assembly receiving portion 1424. Docking station 1402 is configured to allow the vacuum cleaner flow path extending within vacuum cleaner 1400 to pass through cleaning flow path 1500 (see reference 1400). Figure 15 Switch to the venting path (refer to) Figure 16 ).

[0057] Figure 15 It shows along Figure 14A The figure shows a cross-sectional view of the vacuum cleaner 1400 after disengagement from docking station 1402, taken by line XV-XV. As shown, the cleaning flow path 1500 extends from the inlet 1502 of the surface cleaning head 1404, through the handle extension 1408 and the handle 1406, through the filter medium 1504 into the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup 1412, and into the suction motor 1414. The cleaning flow path 1500 flows from the debris collection side 1506 of the filter medium 1504 to the cleaning side 1508 of the filter medium 1504. In other words, as air moves along the cleaning flow path 1500, it can generally be described as flowing forward through the filter medium 1504. The filter medium 1504 can be a mesh filter, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, and / or any other type of filter.

[0058] The figure also shows that the vacuum cleaner dust cup 1412 may include a dust cup door 1510. The dust cup door 1510 may be configured such that it can be pivotally connected to the dust cup body 1512 in a manner that allows it to switch between an open position and a closed position. When in the open position, debris inside the vacuum cleaner dust cup 1412 can be emptied from the door.

[0059] Figure 16 It shows along Figure 14A The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vacuum cleaner 1400 at docking station 1402, taken from line XV-XV. When the vacuum cleaner 1400 engages with docking station 1402, the cleaning flow path 1500 switches to the venting flow path 1600. As shown, the venting flow path 1600 flows through the filter medium 1504 into the bypass channel 1602, then through the cyclone separator 1604 of docking station 1402 into the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup 1412 and the docking station dust collection cup 1426, and finally into pipe 1606 (see also [reference]). Figure 17 The air then passes through the suction motor 1414. The exhaust path 1600 extends from the cleaning side 1508 to the debris collection side 1506 via the filter media 1504. In other words, as the air moves along the exhaust path 1600, it can generally be described as flowing in the reverse direction through the filter media 1504. When the vacuum cleaner 1400 is disengaged from the docking station 1402, the duct 1606 can be closed to prevent airflow through it. For example, a dust cup door 1510 can extend over the opening leading to the duct 1606 to prevent airflow through it.

[0060] As shown in the figure, when the vacuum cleaner 1400 engages docking station 1402, the dust cup door 1510 (e.g., in response to the vacuum cleaner 1400 engaging docking station 1402) pivots to the open position. The dust cup door 1510 can be forceped toward the closed position such that when the vacuum cleaner 1400 disengages from docking station 1402, the dust cup door 1510 is pushed to the closed position. Therefore, the dust cup door 1510 can be switched between the open and closed positions without requiring direct manipulation of the dust cup door 1510 by the user.

[0061] When in the open position, at least a portion of the dust cup door 1510 can be received within a portion of the docking station 1402, allowing fluid connection between the vacuum cleaner dust cup 1412 and the docking station dust cup 1426. Therefore, when the dust cup door 1510 is in the open position, debris contained within the vacuum cleaner dust cup 1412 can be deposited into the docking station dust cup 1426. When the suction motor 1414 is actuated to move air along the exhaust path 1600, additional debris can detach from the filter media 1504 and deposit in the docking station dust cup 1426.

[0062] Figure 17 It shows along Figure 14A The figure shows a cross-sectional view of the vacuum cleaner 1400 of the docking station 1402 taken along line XVII-XVII. As shown, the vacuum cleaner 1400 may include a wiper 1700 configured to move relative to the filter medium 1504. The wiper 1700 may define a wiper channel 1702 through which air moving along the exhaust flow path 1600 travels. As shown, the width of the outlet 1704 of the wiper channel 1702 is measured to be smaller than the inlet 1706 of the wiper channel 1702. Therefore, the velocity of the air moving along the exhaust flow path 1600 within the wiper channel 1702 increases toward the outlet 1704. This increased velocity can cause at least a portion of any debris adhering to the debris collection side 1506 of the filter medium 1504 to detach from the debris collection side 1506 and be entrained in the air flowing in the exhaust flow path 1600.

[0063] Wiper 1700 may be configured to move along an arcuate path 1708, which typically corresponds to the arc of filter media 1504. In some cases, wiper 1700 may be configured to oscillate along the arcuate path 1708 as air moves along the exhaust flow path 1600. In other cases, wiper 1700 may be configured to move only once along the arcuate path 1708 as air moves along the exhaust flow path 1600. In these cases, wiper 1700 may transition to a post-wiping position along the arcuate path 1708 in response to air movement along the exhaust flow path 1600, and may return from the post-wiping position to the starting position along the arcuate path 1708 when air no longer moves along the exhaust path 1600 and / or when at least a portion of vacuum cleaner 1400 (e.g., vacuum assembly 1410) disengages from docking station 1402 (e.g., in response to a force applied by a force-applying mechanism such as a spring).

[0064] Figure 18 It roughly corresponds to Figure 16 An enlarged cross-sectional view of region XVIII-XVIII. As shown, the bypass channel 1602 includes a first bypass section 1802 defined in docking station 1402, a second bypass section 1804 defined in vacuum cleaner 1400, and one or more bypass inlets 1801. The one or more bypass inlets may have, for example, a diameter of 100 square millimeters (mm²). 2 Up to 500mm 2The total inlet area is measured within the specified range. The first bypass section 1802 includes at least one turbine 1806 configured to rotate by air flowing along the exhaust flow path 1600. Rotation of the turbine 1806 causes movement of the wiper 1700. A second bypass section 1804 can fluidly connect the first bypass section 1802 to the wiper passage 1702, allowing air moving along the exhaust flow path 1600 to flow through the wiper passage 1702. In some cases, the second bypass section 1804 may be configured to rotate together with the wiper 1700.

[0065] As shown in the figure, turbine 1806 can be coupled to drivetrain 1808. Drivetrain 1808 may include a plurality of gears 1810 configured to transmit power from turbine 1806 to wiper 1700. For example, the plurality of gears 1810 may be planetary gears. Drivetrain 1808 may be configured to reduce the rotational speed of wiper 1700 relative to the rotational speed of turbine 1806.

[0066] The drivetrain 1808 can be configured to drive the docking station drive shaft 1902 and the vacuum assembly drive shaft 1904 (see reference). Figure 19 The figure shows docking station drive shaft 1902 and vacuum assembly drive shaft 1904 removed from vacuum cleaner 1400 and docking station 1402. As shown, docking station drive shaft 1902 and vacuum assembly drive shaft 1904 include interlocking protrusions 1906 (e.g., teeth) configured to engage when vacuum cleaner 1400 engages docking station 1402. In the case where wiper 1700 passes over filter media 1504 only once, a force can be applied to wiper 1700 toward the starting position by a force-applying mechanism (e.g., a spring). When interlocking protrusion 1906 disengages in response to vacuum cleaner 1400 disengaging from docking station 1402, the force-applying mechanism can push wiper 1700 toward the starting position.

[0067] The figure also shows that when the vacuum cleaner 1400 engages docking station 1402, the handle hatch 1812 is switched to the closed position. In the closed position, the handle hatch 1812 prevents and / or reduces airflow through the handle 1406. Therefore, air moves along the venting path 1600. When the vacuum cleaner 1400 disengages from docking station 1402, the handle hatch 1812 can be switched to the open position, allowing air to flow through the handle 1406.

[0068] Figure 20A schematic example of a wiper 2000 configured to move relative to a filter medium 2002 is shown. The filter medium 2002 can be configured for use with any one or more vacuum cleaners disclosed herein. As shown, the filter medium 2002 is substantially planar. Therefore, the wiper 2000 can be configured to move linearly relative to the filter medium 2002. The wiper 2000 can be configured such that air can flow through a passage 2004 defined within the wiper.

[0069] An example of a docking station for a vacuum cleaner according to this disclosure may include: a receiving portion configured to engage at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner, such that, in response to engaging the receiving portion, a vacuum cleaner flow path extending within the vacuum cleaner is switched from a cleaning flow path to an emptying flow path, the vacuum cleaner's suction motor being configured to push air along the vacuum cleaner flow path; and a docking station dust collection cup configured to receive debris from the vacuum cleaner's dust collection cup.

[0070] In some cases, the docking station may also include a base and an upright portion extending from the base, to which the receiving portion is coupled. In some cases, the receiving portion may define at least a portion of a bypass passage through which an exhaust flow path extends. In some cases, the bypass passage may include a turbine configured to rotate in response to air moving along the exhaust flow path. In some cases, rotation of the turbine may cause a wiper within the vacuum cleaner to move relative to the filter media within the vacuum cleaner.

[0071] According to this disclosure, an example of a vacuum cleaner configured to engage a docking station may include a vacuum assembly configured such that, in response to the engagement of the vacuum assembly docking station, a vacuum cleaner flow path extending within the vacuum assembly switches from a cleaning flow path to an evacuation flow path. The vacuum assembly may include a vacuum cleaner dust collection cup and a suction motor configured to drive air along the vacuum cleaner flow path.

[0072] In some cases, the venting path can be configured such that air flowing along the venting path pushes debris from the vacuum cleaner's dust collection cup into the docking station's dust collection cup. In some cases, the vacuum assembly may include a filter medium. In some cases, the vacuum assembly may include a wiper configured to move relative to the filter medium. In some cases, the wiper may be configured to oscillate along an arcuate path, which typically corresponds to the shape of the filter medium. In some cases, the wiper may define a wiper channel configured to increase the velocity of the air flowing through it. In some cases, the venting path may extend through the wiper channel. In some cases, the wiper may be configured to move in response to the rotation of a turbine.

[0073] Examples of cleaning systems may include a vacuum cleaner and a docking station. The vacuum cleaner may include a vacuum assembly. The vacuum assembly may include a vacuum cleaner dust cup and a suction motor configured to drive air along a cleaning flow path. The docking station may include: a receiving portion configured to engage at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner, such that in response to the engagement of at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner's receiving portion, the cleaning flow path switches to an exhaust flow path; a suction motor further configured to drive air along the exhaust flow path; and a docking station dust cup configured to receive debris from the vacuum cleaner dust cup.

[0074] In some cases, the docking station may further include a base and an upright portion extending from the base, to which the receiving portion is coupled. In some cases, the receiving portion may define at least a portion of a bypass passage through which an exhaust flow path extends. In some cases, the bypass passage may include a turbine configured to rotate in response to air moving along the exhaust flow path. In some cases, the vacuum assembly may include a filter medium and a wiper configured to move in response to rotation of the turbine. In some cases, the wiper may define a wiper passage configured to increase the velocity of air flowing through it. In some cases, the exhaust flow path may extend through the wiper passage.

[0075] While the principles of the invention have been described herein, those skilled in the art should understand that this description is exemplary only and not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other embodiments are conceived within the scope of the invention, in addition to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein. Modifications and substitutions by those skilled in the art are considered to be within the scope of the invention, which is not limited except for the claims.

Claims

1. A docking station for a vacuum cleaner, the vacuum cleaner having a vacuum cleaner dust collection cup and a wiper configured to move relative to a filter, the docking station comprising: A receiving section is configured to engage with at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner, such that in response to engaging the receiving section, a vacuum cleaner flow path extending within the vacuum cleaner is switched from a cleaning flow path to an emptying flow path, and the suction motor of the vacuum cleaner is configured to drive air along the vacuum cleaner flow path, wherein the air flowing along the emptying flow path causes the wiper to move to remove debris adhering to the debris collection side of the filter; as well as The docking station dust collection cup is configured to receive debris from the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup. The wiper defines a wiper channel, which is configured to increase the velocity of the air flowing through the wiper channel.

2. The docking station according to claim 1, further comprising a base and an upright portion extending from the base, wherein the receiving portion is connected to the upright portion.

3. The docking station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The receiving unit defines at least a portion of the bypass channel, and the venting path extends through the bypass channel.

4. The docking station according to claim 3, characterized in that, The bypass channel includes a turbine configured to rotate in response to air moving along the exhaust flow path.

5. The docking station according to claim 4, characterized in that, The rotation of the turbine causes the wiper inside the vacuum cleaner to move relative to the filter.

6. A vacuum cleaner configured to engage with a docking station, the vacuum cleaner comprising: A vacuum assembly configured such that, in response to engagement of the vacuum assembly with the docking station, a vacuum cleaner flow path extending within the vacuum assembly switches from a cleaning flow path to an evacuation flow path, the vacuum assembly comprising: Vacuum cleaner dust collection cup; Filter; A wiper configured to move relative to the filter as air flows along the exhaust path to remove debris adhering to the debris collection side of the filter; and A suction motor is configured to push air along the flow path of the vacuum cleaner. The wiper defines a wiper channel, which is configured to increase the velocity of the air flowing through the wiper channel.

7. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 6, characterized in that, The venting path is configured such that the air flowing along the venting path pushes debris from the vacuum cleaner's dust collection cup into the docking station's dust collection cup.

8. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 6, characterized in that, The wiper includes a wiper channel through which air flows.

9. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 8, characterized in that, The wiper does not contact the filter.

10. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 6, characterized in that, The wiper is configured to oscillate along an arc-shaped path, which generally corresponds to the shape of the filter.

11. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 6, characterized in that, The evacuation path extends through the wiper channel.

12. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 9, characterized in that, The wiper is configured to move in response to the rotation of the turbine.

13. A cleaning system comprising: A vacuum cleaner, comprising a vacuum assembly, the vacuum assembly including: Vacuum cleaner dust collection cup; Filter; A suction motor configured to push air along either a cleaning flow path or an emptying flow path; and A wiper configured to move relative to the filter as air flows along the exhaust path to remove debris adhering to the debris collection side of the filter; and The docking station includes: A receiving section, configured to engage with at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner, such that in response to engagement of at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner with the receiving section, the cleaning flow path is switched to the evacuation flow path; and The docking station dust collection cup is configured to receive debris from the vacuum cleaner dust collection cup. The wiper defines a wiper channel, which is configured to increase the velocity of the air flowing through the wiper channel.

14. The cleaning system according to claim 13, characterized in that, The docking station also includes a base and an upright portion extending from the base, the receiving portion being connected to the upright portion.

15. The cleaning system according to claim 13, characterized in that, The receiving unit defines at least a portion of the bypass channel, and the venting path extends through the bypass channel.

16. The cleaning system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The bypass channel includes a turbine configured to rotate in response to air moving along the exhaust flow path.

17. The cleaning system according to claim 16, characterized in that, The wiper is configured to move in response to the rotation of the turbine.

18. The cleaning system according to claim 13, characterized in that, The evacuation path extends through the wiper channel.

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