Cleaning system

Abstract

A cleaning system includes a docking station. The docking station includes: a station suction inlet configured to be fluidly coupled to a vacuum cleaner; a station dust cup configured to be removably fluidly coupled to the docking station, where the station dust cup includes a debris chamber; an odor control assembly fluidly coupled to the station dust cup; and a station suction motor configured to flow air into the station suction inlet and through the station dust cup. The station suction motor is configured to generate an airflow through the odor control assembly and into the debris chamber.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. application serial number 18 / 213,129, filed on June 22, 2023, the entire teachings of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this document. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to surface treating devices, and more particularly to a vacuum cleaner configured to interface with a docking station. Background Art

[0004] The surface treatment device is configured to remove at least a portion of any debris deposited on the surface to be cleaned (e.g., floor). For example, the surface treatment device can be a vacuum cleaner comprising a suction motor, a suction inlet, and a dust cup. The suction motor is configured to cause air to flow through the suction inlet and into the dust cup. When air is sucked into the suction inlet, at least a portion of any debris on the surface to be cleaned may be entrained in the air. At least a portion of the entrained debris may be deposited in the dust cup for later processing by the user of the vacuum cleaner. The processing frequency may be based at least in part on the volume of the dust cup. An increase in the volume of the dust cup may result in an increase in the total weight and / or size of the vacuum cleaner. Although a smaller dust cup volume may reduce the weight and / or size of the vacuum cleaner, it may result in more frequent processing of debris, which may expose the user to the processed debris more frequently. Summary of the invention

[0005] In one aspect, a cleaning system is provided. The cleaning system includes a docking station, the docking station including: a station suction inlet configured to be fluidly coupled to a vacuum cleaner; a station dust cup configured to be removably fluidly coupled to the docking station, the station dust cup including a debris chamber; an odor control assembly fluidly coupled to the station dust cup; and a station suction motor configured to flow air into the station suction inlet and through the station dust cup, wherein the station suction motor is configured to generate an airflow through the odor control assembly and into the debris chamber.

[0006] In some embodiments, the docking station further comprises a base configured to be removably secured to the station dust cup, the base comprising the station suction motor.

[0007] In some embodiments, the odor control assembly includes a scent disc and a dial body configured to be removably secured to the station dust cup and configured to receive the scent disc, wherein the dial body at least partially defines a fragrance cavity configured to receive and enclose the scent disc.

[0008] In some embodiments, the odor control assembly further comprises one or more fragrance passages configured to allow air to flow through the fragrance disc to transfer fragrance particles into the air to form scented air.

[0009] In some embodiments, the docking station further comprises: a bleed hole disposed in an outer surface of the docking station and configured to allow external air to be drawn into the docking station; and an inlet air path for fluidly coupling the bleed hole with the one or more fragrance passages.

[0010] In some embodiments, the inlet air path further comprises a backflow preventer, wherein the backflow preventer is configured to seal the odor control assembly from the atmosphere to prevent air from escaping from the inlet air path.

[0011] In some embodiments, the backflow preventer comprises a one-way valve.

[0012] In some embodiments, the dial body includes: a disc cap; and a disc cylinder, which is removably connected to the disc cap to at least partially form the fragrance chamber and the one or more fragrance passages, and the disc cap includes an inlet and an exit to the one or more fragrance passages, wherein the atmosphere flows through the inlet, across the fragrance disc and out of the exit.

[0013] In some embodiments, the disc cap further comprises: a fixing ring fixed to the disc cap; and one or more rotatable sections, which act as a handle to assist in inserting the odor control assembly into the station dust cup and removing the odor control assembly.

[0014] In some embodiments, the disc tube also includes: a base; and one or more side walls extending upward from the base, wherein the one or more side walls define a disc chamber configured to receive the fragrance disc; the one or more side walls at least partially define an entry port and an exit port leading to the one or more fragrance passages; the entry port and the exit port leading to the one or more fragrance passages are aligned 180 degrees relative to each other; and the one or more side walls include one or more disc alignment features for aligning the one or more fragrance passages with the entry port and the exit port.

[0015] In some embodiments, the odor control assembly is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position within the station dust cup to adjust at least one of the cross-sectional sizes of an entrance or exit opening to the one or more fragrance passages to cover or expose the one or more fragrance passages, thereby regulating the amount of air drawn through the one or more fragrance discs.

[0016] In some embodiments, the station dust cup includes an outlet air path formed by an outlet chamber between an exit from the one or more fragrance passages and an inlet port of the station dust cup, wherein the outlet air path draws the fragrance air from the odor control assembly into the station dust cup.

[0017] In some embodiments, the cleaning system further includes an odor control cavity at least partially disposed in a top surface of the station dust cup, the odor control cavity being configured to at least partially receive the odor control assembly.

[0018] In another aspect, a cleaning system is provided. The cleaning system includes a vacuum cleaner and a docking station. The vacuum cleaner is configured to dock with the docking station, the docking station including: a station suction inlet configured to be fluidly coupled to the vacuum cleaner; a station dust cup configured to be removably fluidly coupled to the docking station, the station dust cup including a debris chamber; an odor control assembly fluidly coupled to the station dust cup; and a station suction motor configured to cause air to flow into the station suction inlet and through the station dust cup, wherein the station suction motor is configured to generate an airflow through the odor control assembly and into the debris chamber.

[0019] In some embodiments, the docking station further comprises a base configured to be removably secured to the station dust cup, the base comprising the station suction motor.

[0020] In some embodiments, the odor control assembly includes: a scent disc; and a dial body configured to be removably secured to the station dust cup and configured to receive the scent disc, wherein the dial body at least partially defines a fragrance cavity configured to receive and enclose the scent disc.

[0021] In some embodiments, the odor control assembly further comprises one or more fragrance passages configured to allow air to flow through the scent disc to transfer fragrance particles into the air to form scented air flowing into the debris chamber.

[0022] In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaner is a handheld vacuum cleaner.

[0023] In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaner is a robotic vacuum cleaner.

[0024] In another aspect, a cleaning system is provided. The cleaning system includes: a vacuum cleaner; a first odor control assembly and a docking station. The first odor control assembly is fluidly coupled to the vacuum cleaner; the vacuum cleaner is configured to dock with the docking station, the docking station including: a station suction inlet configured to be fluidly coupled to the vacuum cleaner; a station dust cup configured to be removably fluidly coupled to the docking station, the station dust cup including a debris chamber; a second odor control assembly fluidly coupled to the station dust cup; and a station suction motor configured to cause air to flow from the vacuum cleaner into the station suction inlet and through the station dust cup, wherein the station suction motor is configured to generate an airflow through the second odor control assembly and into the debris chamber. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] These and other features and advantages will be better understood from the following detailed description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 is an illustrative example of a vacuum cleaner docked with a docking station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 2 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 Schematic illustration of a vacuum cleaner with a dust cup in a manual emptying configuration.

[0028] Figure 3 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 Schematic illustration of a vacuum cleaner with a dust cup in a self-emptying configuration.

[0029] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner docked with a docking station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 5 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 4 Vacuum cleaners from Figure 4 A perspective view of a docking station detached while one or more accessories of a vacuum cleaner remain docked with the docking station.

[0031] Figure 6 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 4 Perspective view of a docking station.

[0032] Fig. 6A According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 4 The docking station corresponds to Figure 6 An enlarged view of a portion of region 6A.

[0033] Figure 7 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 4 The docking station is used to receive Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a container of a vacuum cleaner.

[0034] Figure 8 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 4 A perspective view of a vacuum cleaner with a dust cup outlet in a closed configuration.

[0035] Fig. 8A According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 4 The vacuum cleaner corresponds to Figure 8 An enlarged view of a portion of region 8A.

[0036] Fig. 9 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 4 A perspective view of a vacuum cleaner with a dust cup outlet in an open configuration.

[0037] Fig.10 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 4 The line XX intercepts Figure 4 Cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner and docking station.

[0038] Fig.11 is an illustrative example of a vacuum cleaner docked with a docking station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Fig. 12A is a perspective view of a docking station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with a vacuum cleaner detached from the docking station.

[0040] Fig. 12B is a perspective view of a station dust cup showing the odor control chamber with the odor control components removed.

[0041] Fig. 12C is a top view of the station dust cup showing the odor control chamber with the odor control components removed.

[0042] Fig.13A According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig.11 A perspective view of an odor control assembly of a vacuum cleaner.

[0043] Fig. 13B According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig.11 An exploded view of the odor control components of a vacuum cleaner.

[0044] Fig. 13C According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig.11 A front view of an odor control assembly of a vacuum cleaner.

[0045] Fig.13DAccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig.11 A side view of an odor control assembly of a vacuum cleaner.

[0046] Fig.13E According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig.11 A front view of the dial body of a vacuum cleaner.

[0047] Fig.13F According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig.11 A perspective view of a disc cylinder of a vacuum cleaner.

[0048] Figure 13G According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig.11 view of the scent disc of a vacuum cleaner.

[0049] Fig.13H According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig.11 A bottom perspective view of the disc cartridge of the odor control assembly of a vacuum cleaner.

[0050] Fig.14A is a front cross-sectional view of an odor control assembly installed in a station dust cup showing the inlet air path according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Fig. 14B According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the Fig.11 A front perspective view of an odor control assembly within a station dust cup within a docking station of a vacuum cleaner.

[0052] Fig. 14C According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the Fig.11 A rear perspective view of the odor control assembly within the station dust cup of a vacuum cleaner docking station.

[0053] Fig.15 is a top cross-sectional view of an odor control assembly installed in a station dust cup showing the inlet air path according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Fig.16 is a front cross-sectional view of a station dust cup showing the outlet air path according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Fig.17 is a side view of a docking station for a vacuum cleaner showing an outlet port for a station dust cup according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Fig.18A is a perspective view of a station dust cup showing an alternative bleed hole location for inlet air of an odor control assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Fig.18B is a front cross-sectional view of a station dust cup according to an embodiment of the present disclosure showing an alternative bleed hole location for inlet air of an odor control assembly.

[0058] Fig.19 is a perspective view of a docking station for a vacuum cleaner showing an alternative location for an odor control assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Fig. 20 A front view of a docking station for a robotic vacuum cleaner including an odor control assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0060] Fig.21 A front cross-sectional view of an odor control assembly in a docking station for a robotic vacuum cleaner is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] The present disclosure generally relates to a vacuum cleaner and a docking station configured to interface with the vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaner includes a cleaner suction motor, a cleaner suction inlet, and a cleaner dust cup. The cleaner suction motor is fluidly coupled to the cleaner suction inlet and the cleaner dust cup so that the cleaner suction motor draws air through the cleaner suction inlet and into the cleaner dust cup when it is started. The air drawn through the cleaner suction inlet may be entrained with debris. At least a portion of the entrained debris is deposited in the cleaner dust cup for later processing. The cleaner dust cup may include a first emptying configuration and a second emptying configuration for removing debris from the cleaner dust cup. The first emptying configuration may correspond to a manual emptying configuration (e.g., for emptying the cleaner dust cup into a trash container by a user), and the second emptying configuration may correspond to an automatic emptying configuration (e.g., for emptying the cleaner dust cup using a docking station).

[0062] The docking station includes a station suction motor, a container having a station suction inlet, and a station dust cup. The station suction motor is configured to cause air to flow into the station suction inlet and through the station dust cup. The container is configured to interface with a vacuum cleaner so that the vacuum cleaner can be removably connected to the docking station (docked with the docking station). When the vacuum cleaner is docked to the docking station and the station suction motor is activated, the cleaner dust cup can be converted to an automatic emptying configuration. When in the automatic emptying configuration, the cleaner dust cup and the station dust cup are fluidly connected so that when the station suction motor is activated, at least a portion of any debris stored in the cleaner dust cup is transferred to the station dust cup.

[0063] Using a docking station to empty a cleaner dust cup can reduce the number of times a user is exposed to debris collected by the vacuum cleaner (e.g., due to a debris plume during emptying). For example, the station dust cup can be configured to have a larger volume than the cleaner dust cup (e.g., a volume that is at least twice as large). Thus, a user can handle the collected debris less frequently, thereby reducing the user's exposure to debris.

[0064] Figure 1 A schematic example of a cleaning system 101 having a vacuum cleaner 100 detachably coupled (docked) to a docking station 102 is shown. The vacuum cleaner 100 includes a handle 104, a cleaner suction motor 106, a cleaner dust cup 108, and a cleaner inlet 110. The cleaner suction motor 106 is fluidly coupled to the cleaner inlet 110 and the cleaner dust cup 108 so that when the cleaner suction motor 106 is activated, air is caused to flow through the cleaner inlet 110 and into the cleaner dust cup 108. The air flowing through the cleaner inlet 110 may be entrained with debris. At least a portion of the entrained debris may be deposited in the cleaner dust cup 108 for later disposal. The cleaner dust cup 108 can be configured to have a first empty configuration and a second empty configuration, wherein the cleaner dust cup 108 can be in the first empty configuration when the vacuum cleaner 100 is detached from the docking station 102, and the cleaner dust cup can be in the second empty configuration when the vacuum cleaner 100 is docked with the docking station 102. Therefore, the first empty configuration can generally be referred to as a manual empty configuration, and the second empty configuration can generally be referred to as an automatic empty configuration.

[0065] The user interface 112 may be disposed on and / or near the handle 104 (e.g., within 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 35%, or 50% of the maximum dimension of the handle 104). The user interface 112 may include one or more of a start switch (e.g., for starting the suction motor 106), a cleaning behavior switch (e.g., for increasing the suction power of the suction motor 106), a dust cup emptying switch (e.g., for converting the cleaner dust cup 108 to a manual emptying configuration), and / or any other switch.

[0066] The docking station 102 includes a base 114, an updraft 116 extending from the base 114, and a receptacle 118 coupled to the updraft 116. The receptacle 118 is configured to receive at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner 100. The base 114 includes a station dust cup 120 and a station suction motor 122. In some cases, the base 114 may also include a post-motor filter 115, wherein exhaust from the station suction motor 122 is configured to pass through the post-motor filter 115. The post-motor filter 115 may be a high-efficiency particulate air ("HEPA") filter (e.g., a pleated HEPA filter).

[0067] The upper duct 116 includes an air passage 124 that is fluidly coupled to the station dust cup 120 and the station suction motor 122, such that the station suction motor 122, when activated, causes air to be drawn through the air passage 124 and into the station dust cup 120. The container 118 includes a station inlet 126 that is fluidly coupled to the air passage 124, such that the station suction motor 122, when activated, causes air to be drawn through the station inlet 126 and into the air passage 124. In other words, the upper duct 116 fluidly couples the station inlet 126 to the station suction motor 122 and the station dust cup 120.

[0068] As shown, the cleaner dust cup 108 includes a dust cup outlet 128 that is configured to be fluidly coupled to the station inlet 126 when the vacuum cleaner 100 is docked with the docking station 102 (e.g., when at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner 100 is received within the container 118). When the station suction motor 122 is activated, air is drawn through the dust cup outlet 128 and into the station inlet 126. The dust cup outlet 128 can be configured to be selectively opened and closed when the vacuum cleaner 100 is docked to the docking station 102. When the dust cup outlet 128 is in an open configuration, the cleaner dust cup 108 is in an automatic emptying configuration.

[0069] Figure 2 A schematic example of a vacuum cleaner 100 having a cleaner dust cup 108 in a manual emptying configuration is shown. As shown, the cleaner dust cup 108 is coupled (e.g., movably coupled, detachably coupled, and / or pivotally coupled) to a main body 200 of the vacuum cleaner 100 so that the cleaner dust cup 108 can be switched between a stowed configuration and a manual emptying configuration. For example, and as shown, the cleaner dust cup 108 can be pivotally coupled to the main body 200 of the vacuum cleaner 100 at a pivot point 202 so that the cleaner dust cup 108 pivots from the stowed configuration to the manual emptying configuration. When in the manual emptying configuration, the debris in the cleaner dust cup 108 can be emptied from the dust cup open end 204 of the cleaner dust cup 108. The dust cup open end 204 can be opposite to the pivot point 202 of the cleaner dust cup 108. This configuration may facilitate the emptying of debris from the dirt cup open end 204 due to the pivotal movement of the cleaner dirt cup 108 .

[0070] Figure 3A schematic example of a vacuum cleaner 100 having a cleaner dust cup 108 in a stowed configuration and a dust cup outlet 128 in an open configuration is shown. As shown, the dust cup door 300 can be configured to selectively open and close the dust cup outlet 128, thereby selectively switching the dust cup outlet 128 between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The dust cup door 300 is pivotably connected to the cleaner dust cup 108 so that the dust cup door 300 pivots to selectively open and close the dust cup outlet 128. For example, when the vacuum cleaner 100 is docked with the docking station 102, the airflow generated by the station suction motor 122 can pivot the dust cup door 300, open the dust cup outlet 128 and allow debris in the cleaner dust cup 108 to be entrained in the airflow. Therefore, when the dust cup outlet 128 is in an open configuration, the dust cup 108 can generally be described as being in an automatic emptying configuration.

[0071] Figure 4 A perspective view of a vacuum cleaner 400 and a docking station 402 is shown. The vacuum cleaner may be Figure 1 For example, the vacuum cleaner 100, the docking station may be Figure 1 An example of a docking station 102 is shown.

[0072] The vacuum cleaner 400 includes a body 403, a handle 404, a cleaner user interface 406 near the handle 404, a cleaner suction motor 408, a cleaner dust cup 410 pivotally coupled to the body 403, and a cleaner inlet 412, the cleaner suction motor 408 being fluidly coupled to the cleaner dust cup 410 and the cleaner inlet 412. The cleaner inlet 412 can be configured to be releasably coupled to an accessory 414 (e.g., a cleaning nozzle). The accessory 414 can be configured to be releasably coupled to an additional accessory 416 (e.g., a floor nozzle).

[0073] The docking station 402 includes a base 418, a station dust cup 420 releasably coupled to the base 418, a station suction motor 422 disposed within the base 418, an upper air duct 424 extending from the base 418, and a container 426 coupled to the upper air duct 424. The container 426 is configured to receive at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner 400 so that the vacuum cleaner 400 is releasably coupled (docked) to the docking station 402. The container 426 may also be configured to receive at least a portion of the accessory 414 so that the accessory 414 is releasably coupled (docked) to the docking station 402.

[0074] Figure 5A perspective view of a vacuum cleaner 400 and a docking station 402 is shown, wherein the vacuum cleaner 400 is detached from the docking station 402. As shown, the vacuum cleaner 400 can be used independently of the accessory 414 and the additional accessory 416, and the accessory 414 and the additional accessory 416 can remain docked with the docking station 402, while being detached from the vacuum cleaner 400. When the vacuum cleaner 400 is detached separately from the accessory 414 and the additional accessory 416, the accessory 414 and the additional accessory 416 can be detached from the docking station 402 independently of the vacuum cleaner 400. In some cases, when the accessory 414 and the additional accessory 416 are not docked with the docking station 402, the vacuum cleaner 400 can be docked with the docking station 402 separately from the accessory 414 and the additional accessory 416.

[0075] Figure 6 A perspective view of the docking station 402 is shown, and Fig. 6A Shown corresponding to Figure 6 6A in FIG. As shown, the container 426 includes a charging contact 600 configured to be electrically connected to the vacuum cleaner 400 (e.g., for charging one or more batteries of the vacuum cleaner 400), one or more accessory aligners 602, one or more cleaner aligners 604, and one or more dust cup aligners 606. In some cases, the docking station 402 may be configured to use the charging contact 600 to detect that the vacuum cleaner 400 is docked with the docking station. Additionally or alternatively, the container 426 may include one or more sensors 601 (e.g., a tactile switch, a Hall effect sensor, and / or any other type of sensor) to detect that the vacuum cleaner 400 is docked with the container. In response to detecting that the vacuum cleaner 400 is docked with the docking station 402, the docking station 402 may be caused to perform an emptying behavior. In some cases, the docking station 402 may perform an emptying behavior in response to detecting that the vacuum cleaner 400 is docked with the docking station 402 and in response to receiving a user input.

[0076] As shown, the container 426 is defined by one or more container sidewalls 608 that are shaped to follow the corresponding contours of the vacuum cleaner 400 and / or the accessory 414, such that the container 426 can generally be described as including a cleaner area 610 and an accessory area 612. For example, the container 426 can have a first width 614 and a second width 616, wherein the first width 614 is greater than the second width 616. The second width 616 can be closer to the base 418 of the docking station 402 than the first width 614. In some cases, the second width 616 can correspond approximately to the width of the accessory 414 ( Figure 4 ), and the first width 614 may correspond to the width of the vacuum cleaner 400 ( Figure 4 ). Thus, the container 426 can generally be described as being configured to receive at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner 400 and at least a portion of the accessory 414.

[0077] The one or more accessory aligners 602 are configured to engage (e.g., contact) the accessory 414 so as to align the accessory 414 relative to the container 426. The one or more accessory aligners 602 can be recesses configured to receive corresponding portions (e.g., alignment protrusions) of the accessory 414. In some cases, at least a portion of the one or more accessory aligners 602 is configured to limit movement of the accessory 414 relative to one or more predetermined axes when at least a portion of the accessory 414 engages the one or more accessory aligners 602. For example, at least a portion of the one or more accessory aligners 602 can be configured to limit movement of the accessory 414 relative to the insertion / removal axis 618 of the container 426 when at least a portion of the accessory 414 engages the one or more accessory aligners 602. The insertion / removal axis 618 can extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the upper air duct 424 (e.g., within a range of 1°, 2°, 3°, 4°, or 5°).

[0078] The one or more cleaner aligners 604 are configured to engage (eg, contact) the body 403 (eg, Figure 4 ), so as to align vacuum cleaner 400 relative to container 426. One or more cleaner aligners 604 can be protrusions configured to be received within corresponding grooves in vacuum cleaner 400 (e.g., in body 403). In some cases, at least a portion of one or more cleaner aligners 604 is configured to limit movement of vacuum cleaner 400 relative to one or more axes when at least a portion of vacuum cleaner 400 engages one or more cleaner aligners 604. For example, at least a portion of one or more cleaner aligners 604 can be configured to limit movement of vacuum cleaner 400 relative to insertion / removal axis 618 when at least a portion of vacuum cleaner 400 engages one or more cleaner aligners 604.

[0079] One or more dust cup aligners 606 are configured to engage the cleaner dust cup 410 ( Figure 4) so that the dust cup outlet is aligned with the station entrance 620 of the container 426. As shown, there may be a plurality of dust cup aligners 606 disposed on opposite sides of the station entrance 620. One or more dust cup aligners 606 may be grooves configured to receive at least a portion of the cleaner dust cup 410. In some cases, at least a portion of the one or more dust cup aligners 606 is configured to limit the movement of the vacuum cleaner 400 relative to one or more axes when at least a portion of the cleaner dust cup 410 engages the one or more dust cup aligners 606. For example, at least a portion of the one or more dust cup aligners 606 may be configured to limit the movement of the vacuum cleaner 400 relative to the insertion / removal axis 618 when at least a portion of the cleaner dust cup 410 engages the one or more dust cup aligners 606. The dust cup aligner 606 may be further configured to cause the cleaner dust cup 410 to engage with a seal 624 extending around the periphery of the station entrance 620. Seal 624 can be elastically deformable such that seal 624 is at least partially compressed when vacuum cleaner 400 is received within container 426. For example, seal 624 can include thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU").

[0080] refer to Figure 7 , which shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of a container 426, one or more dust cup aligners 606 may include a dust cup aligner groove 700 defined by a first groove sidewall 702 and a second groove sidewall 704. The first groove sidewall 702 and the second groove sidewall 704 may be configured to facilitate the seal 624 ( Fig. 6A ) to form a seal between the vacuum cleaner 400 and the cleaner dust cup 410 and / or to reduce wear on the seal 624 caused by repeated docking and undocking of the vacuum cleaner 400 with the docking station 402. The first groove sidewall 702 may include a first sidewall portion 706 and a second sidewall portion 708, the first sidewall portion 706 and the second sidewall portion 708 intersecting to form a sidewall portion angle θ. The sidewall portion angle θ may be an obtuse angle extending between the first sidewall portion 706 and the surface of the second sidewall portion 708 facing the second groove sidewall 704. The second sidewall portion 708 may form a groove angle α with the second groove sidewall 704, so that the separation distance 709 extending between the second sidewall portion 708 and the second groove sidewall 704 decreases in the direction of the base 418 of the docking station 402. In other words, the dust cup aligner groove 700 may include a tapered area that tapers in the direction of the base 418.

[0081] The groove angle α extends from the surface of the second sidewall portion 708 facing the second groove sidewall 704 to the second groove sidewall 704. The groove angle α may be, for example, in the range of 1° to 20°. As another example, the groove angle α may be, for example, in the range of 5° to 15°. As yet another example, the groove angle α may be, for example, about 10° (e.g., in the range of 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, or 5%).

[0082] The first groove sidewall 702 and / or the second groove sidewall 704 may include a chamfered area 710 and / or 712, which is configured to facilitate the cleaner dust cup 410 ( Figure 4 ) is inserted into the dust cup aligner groove 700. The first groove sidewall 702 has a first sidewall height 714, and the second groove sidewall 704 has a second sidewall height 716. The first sidewall height 714 can be greater than the second sidewall height 716. Therefore, the movement of the vacuum cleaner 400 along the insertion / removal axis 618 can be limited only for a portion of the dust cup aligner groove 700 (e.g., the portion of the dust cup aligner groove 700 that extends between the first groove sidewall 702 and the second groove sidewall 704).

[0083] Figure 8 and Fig. 9 4 shows a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner 400. As shown, the body 403 of the vacuum cleaner 400 includes one or more cleaner alignment grooves 800 configured to align with one or more cleaner alignment grooves 604 (e.g., of the docking station 402) (e.g., container 426). Fig. 6A )) and the cleaner dust cup 410 includes a dust cup alignment protrusion 802, which is configured to align with the docking station 402 (e.g., the dust cup aligner 606 ( Fig. 6A The dust cup alignment protrusion 802 may include a dust cup outlet 804 that is configured to be selectively opened and closed by a dust cup door 806 so that debris in the cleaner dust cup 410 may selectively pass through the dust cup outlet.

[0084] As shown, the dust cup door 806 is configured to be in the closed position ( Figure 8 ) and the open position ( Fig. 9 ). For example, the dust cup door 806 can be pivotally coupled to the cleaner dust cup 410 (e.g., the dust cup alignment protrusion 802) so that the dust cup door 806 pivots between an open position and a closed position. The dust cup door 806 can be biased toward the closed position (e.g., using a spring such as a torsion spring). When the dust cup door 806 is in the open position, the cleaner dust cup 410 can generally be described as being in an automatic emptying configuration.

[0085] The vacuum cleaner 400 (eg, the cleaner dust cup 410) may include a retainer 808. The retainer 808 may be movably (eg, slidably) coupled to the dust cup alignment protrusion 802, wherein the retainer 808 is configured to be in a locked position ( Figure 8 ) and unlocked position ( Fig. 9 ). When the retainer 808 is in the locked position, the dust cup door 806 is prevented from moving from the closed position to the open position (e.g., pivotal movement of the dust cup door 806 may be substantially prevented). When the retainer 808 is in the unlocked position, the dust cup door 806 can move from the closed position to the open position. The retainer 808 may be biased toward the locked position (e.g., using a spring such as a compression spring).

[0086] When the vacuum cleaner 400 is docked with the docking station 402, the retainer 808 can be switched from the locked position to the unlocked position. For example, the container 426 may include an actuation protrusion 626 (eg, perpendicular to) extending transverse to (eg, perpendicular to) the insertion / removal axis 618. Fig. 6A ). The actuation protrusion 626 is configured to engage (e.g., contact) the retainer 808 when the vacuum cleaner 400 is received by the container 426. When the vacuum cleaner 400 is docked with the docking station 402, the engagement of the actuation protrusion 626 with the retainer 808 causes the retainer to transition (e.g., slide) from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0087] The dust cup alignment protrusion 802 is configured to cooperate with the dust cup aligner 606. For example, the dust cup alignment protrusion 802 may have a dust cup alignment groove 700 ( Figure 7 ) has a shape that roughly corresponds to the shape (e.g., a wedge shape). For example, the shape of the dust cup alignment protrusion 802 can cause the second groove sidewall 704 to engage (e.g., contact) the dust cup alignment protrusion 802, thereby causing the dust cup alignment protrusion 802 to align with the seal 624 ( Fig. 6A ) engagement (e.g., contact). The engagement between the seal 624 and the dust cup alignment protrusion 802 can at least partially compress the seal 624. For example, the seal engagement surface 810 of the dust cup alignment protrusion 802 can engage with the seal 624 to form at least a partial seal. The formation of a partial seal can mitigate debris plume when the cleaner dust cup 410 is emptied.

[0088] In some cases, and with additional references Fig. 8A (which roughly corresponds to Figure 88A in the enlarged view of the region 8A in the dust cup alignment projection 802), the dust cup alignment projection 802 may also include an alignment lip 803, which extends outwardly from the projection sidewall 805 of the dust cup alignment projection 802 by a first extension distance 807. The dust cup alignment projection 802 may include a plurality of alignment lips 803, wherein each alignment lip 803 extends along the opposite longitudinal side of the dust cup alignment projection 802. The alignment lip 803 may be configured to engage at least a portion of the dust cup aligner 606. In some cases, the alignment lip 803 may include at least a portion of the sealing engagement surface 810 of the dust cup alignment projection 802. The dust cup alignment projection 802 may include (in addition to or as an alternative to the alignment lip) an alignment projection 809. The alignment projection 809 may extend a second extension distance 811 from the projection sidewall 805, and the second extension distance 811 is greater than the first extension distance 807. The alignment protrusion 809 can be configured to engage at least a portion of the dust cup aligner 606. In some cases, the alignment protrusion 809 can include at least a portion of the sealing engagement surface 810 of the dust cup alignment protrusion 802.

[0089] As shown, the sealing engagement surface 810 of the dust cup alignment protrusion 802 forms a protrusion angle β with the longitudinal axis 812 of the cleaner. The protrusion angle β may roughly correspond to the groove angle α ( Figure 7 ). The protrusion angle β may, for example, be in the range of 1° to 20°. As another example, the protrusion angle β may, for example, be in the range of 5° to 15°. As yet another example, the protrusion angle β may, for example, be about 10° (e.g., in the range of 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, or 5%).

[0090] The cleaner dust cup 410 is pivotally connected to the main body 403 of the vacuum cleaner 400 around the dust cup pivot axis 814. The cleaner dust cup 410 is configured to pivot from the stowed configuration to the manual emptying configuration around the dust cup pivot axis 814. As shown in the figure, when in the stowed configuration, the cleaner dust cup 410 extends between the inlet end 816 and the handle 404 of the main body 403 along the cleaner longitudinal axis 812. When the cleaner dust cup 410 is pivoted to the manual emptying position, the open end 818 of the cleaner dust cup 410 is exposed. As shown in the figure, when the cleaner dust cup 410 is in the stowed configuration, the open end 818 is received in the main body 403. Therefore, the cleaner dust cup 410 can be generally described as being configured to pivot so that the open end 818 is selectively received in the main body 403. The open end 818 and the dust cup outlet 804 can be located on different sides of the cleaner dust cup 410.

[0091] Fig.10 Shown along Figure 4 The line XX intercepts Figure 4402 docked with the vacuum cleaner 400. As shown, the dust cup door 806 is in an open position. The dust cup door 806 can be responsive to the station suction motor 422 ( Figure 4 ) is activated to switch from the closed position to the open position. For example, the airflow generated by the station suction motor 422 can push the dust cup door 806 toward the open position. When the station suction motor 422 is deactivated, the dust cup door 806 can switch to the closed position (e.g., due to gravity and / or biasing force). When the dust cup door 806 is in the open position, at least a portion of the dust cup door 806 passes through the station inlet 620 and is at least partially received in the container cavity 1000 of the container 426. In other words, when the dust cup outlet 804 is open, at least a portion of the dust cup door 806 is received in the container cavity 1000.

[0092] The airflow generated by the station suction motor 422 may flow along an exhaust flow path 1002. As shown, the exhaust flow path 1002 extends from the cleaner dust cup 410 through the air passage 1004 of the upper duct 424 into the container cavity 1000 and into the station dust cup 420.

[0093] An example of a vacuum cleaner according to the present disclosure may include a main body and a dust cup coupled to the main body. The dust cup may include an open end configured to be selectively received in the main body and a dust cup outlet configured to be selectively opened and closed.

[0094] In some cases, the dust cup may further include a dust cup door configured to selectively open and close the dust cup outlet. In some cases, the dust cup door may be pivotally connected to the dust cup. In some cases, the dust cup may further include a retainer configured to switch between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein when the retainer is in the locked position, the pivotal movement of the dust cup door is substantially prevented. In some cases, the retainer may be biased toward the locked position. In some cases, the dust cup may further include a dust cup alignment protrusion configured to cooperate with the docking station, and the dust cup alignment protrusion includes the dust cup outlet. In some cases, the main body may include an alignment groove configured to cooperate with the docking station. In some cases, the dust cup outlet and the open end may be located on different sides of the dust cup.

[0095] An example of a cleaning system according to the present disclosure may include a vacuum cleaner and a docking station, the vacuum cleaner having a main body and a cleaner dust cup coupled to the main body, the vacuum cleaner being configured to dock with the docking station. The cleaner dust cup may include an open end and a dust cup outlet, the open end being configured to be selectively received within the main body, the dust cup outlet being configured to selectively open and close, the dust cup outlet and the open end being located on different sides of the cleaner dust cup. The docking station may include a base having a suction motor and a station dust cup, an upper duct extending from the base, and a container having a station inlet, the container being configured to receive at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner, the upper duct fluidically coupling the station inlet to the suction motor and the station dust cup.

[0096] In some cases, the station entrance may be configured to be fluidly coupled to the dust cup outlet when the vacuum cleaner is docked with the docking station. In some cases, the cleaner dust cup may also include a dust cup door, which is configured to selectively open and close the dust cup outlet. In some cases, the container may include a container cavity, which is configured to receive at least a portion of the dust cup door when the dust cup outlet is opened. In some cases, the dust cup door may be configured to pivot to selectively open and close the dust cup outlet, and the airflow generated by the suction motor pivots the dust cup door to open the dust cup outlet. In some cases, the cleaner dust cup may also include a retainer, which is configured to convert between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein when the retainer is in the locked position, the movement of the dust cup door is substantially prevented. In some cases, the container may include an actuating projection, which is configured to convert the retainer from a locked position to an unlocked position when the vacuum cleaner is docked with the docking station. In some cases, the actuating projection may extend transversely to the insertion / removal axis of the container. In some cases, the retainer may be biased toward the locked position. In some cases, the container may include a dust cup aligner configured to align the dust cup outlet with the station entrance. In some cases, the dust cup aligner may include a groove including a tapered area that tapers in the direction of the base. In some cases, the container may include a cleaner aligner. In some cases, the vacuum cleaner may include an alignment groove configured to cooperate with the cleaner aligner. In some cases, the dust cup may be pivotally connected to the body.

[0097] In some cases, a docking station for a vacuum cleaner may include one or more odor control components to control odor in a dust cup in the docking station. The odor control component may include an adjustment member that is switchable to change the amount of fragrance particles output by the odor control component during use (e.g., during emptying of a dust cup in a vacuum cleaner into a dust cup in the docking station).

[0098] In more detail, the fragrance particles can be provided by a fragrance component connected to an adjustment component, wherein the fragrance component provides at least one fragrance air path. The adjustment component can adjust the cross-sectional size of the opening leading to the fragrance air path by rotating the odor control component to cover or expose the air path, thereby adjusting the amount of air that can be sucked through the fragrance component. Then, the air traveling through the fragrance air path can make the fragrance particles become airborne. Then, the odor control component can output the fragrance particles to the dust cup in the docking station. The air transmitted through the air path of the fragrance component can be provided from a motor (e.g., a suction motor disposed in the docking station) for emptying debris from the dust cup in the vacuum cleaner to the dust cup in the docking station. The temperature of the air transmitted across the motor and / or the speed of the air transmitted across the motor can be advantageously used to ensure that a predetermined amount of fragrance particles is output by the odor control component.

[0099] Fig.11 is a perspective view of a cleaning system 1101 having a vacuum cleaner 1100, which may be Figure 1 An example of a vacuum cleaner 100 that can be detachably coupled (docked) to a docking station 1200, which can be Figure 1 An example of a docking station 102 is shown. Fig.11 The cleaning system 1101 may further include a station dust cup 1210 , and the station dust cup 1210 may further include an odor control component 1300 .

[0100] Fig. 12A 1 is a perspective view of the docking station 1200 with the vacuum cleaner 1100 detached from the docking station. The odor control assembly 1300 can be removably coupled to the station dust cup 1210. For example, the odor control assembly 1300 can be at least partially disposed in the station dust cup 1210, and more specifically in the odor control cavity 1212 in the top surface of the station dust cup 1210 ( Fig. 12B ). Fig. 12C A close-up view of the odor control cavity in the top surface of the station dust cup 1210 is shown in FIG. Fig. 12C Also shown is a protrusion 1214 that holds the odor control assembly 1300 in the station dust cup 1210.

[0101] refer to Fig.13E, generally showing one example of an odor control assembly 1300 according to the present disclosure. The odor control assembly 1300 may include a dial body 1312 configured to be removably secured to a station dust cup 1210 and configured to receive one or more fragrance discs 1306. The dial body 1312 may have a generally circular cross-section and may be configured to generally form one or more seals with the station dust cup 1210 and, optionally, may define a fragrance cavity 1326 configured to receive and generally enclose the fragrance disc 1306. The dial body 1312 and / or the disc cartridge 1308 may define one or more fragrance passages 1328 configured to allow air to flow through / through the disc cartridge 1308 to transfer fragrance particles into the air to form fragrant air.

[0102] Now turn to Fig. 13B , generally shows an exploded view of one example of an odor control assembly 1300. The dial body 1312 may include a disc barrel 1308 and a disc cap 1304. The disc barrel 1308 and the disc cap 1304 may be configured to be removably coupled to each other to at least partially form a fragrance chamber 1326 and a fragrance passage 1328. In the example shown, the disc barrel 1308 includes an entry port 1348 and an exit port 1350 leading to the fragrance passage 1328 (see Fig.13F ). Atmosphere can flow through the inlet port 1348, across the scent disc 1306 and out the exit port. Optionally, the disc cap 1304 can include one or more rotatable sections or pivot adjustment members 1302A that function as a handle or D-ring to assist in inserting and removing the odor control assembly 1300. The pivot adjustment member 1302A can be coupled to the disc cap 1304, for example, by one or more hinges or pins 1303 or the like. Optionally, the disc cap 1304 can also include a fixing ring 1302B fixed to the disc cap 1304.

[0103] As described above, the disc cartridge 1308 and the disc cap 1304 may be configured to be removably coupled to each other to at least partially form the fragrance chamber 1326 and the fragrance passage 1328. The disc cartridge 1308 and the disc cap 1304 may be removably secured to each other in any manner known to those skilled in the art, such as, but not limited to, threaded connections, tabs, detents, clips, and the like.

[0104] One benefit of the removable connection between the disc cartridge 1308 and the disc cap 1304 is that it allows replacement of the disc cartridge 1308 and the scent disc 1306 to be accomplished without the user having to touch the scent disc 1306 and without having to replace the entire scent control assembly 1300. In particular, when the user desires to replace the scent disc 1306, the user can purchase the disc cartridge 1308 pre-installed with the scent disc 1306. The user can then disconnect the disc cartridge 1308 (which includes the scent disc 1306) from the disc cap 1304, and then connect a new disc cartridge 1308 (with the scent disc 1306 pre-installed therein) to the existing disc cap 1304.

[0105] Now turn to Fig.13F , generally showing an example of a disc cartridge 1308. The disc cartridge 1308 may include, for example, one or more sidewalls 1342 extending upward from a base 1344. The sidewalls 1342 (and optionally, the base 1344) may define a disc chamber 1346 configured to receive the fragrance disc 1306. The disc chamber 1346 may be the same as the fragrance chamber 1326, or may define a portion of the fragrance chamber 1326. The sidewalls 1342 may also at least partially define an entry port 1348 and an exit port 1350 leading to the fragrance passage 1328. In the example shown, the entry port 1348 and the exit port 1350 of the fragrance passage 1328 are generally aligned 180 degrees relative to each other; however, it should be understood that the entry port 1348 and the exit port 1350 may be aligned at any other angle.

[0106] Optionally, the sidewall 1342 may include one or more disc alignment features 1352. The disc alignment features 1352 are configured to align the fragrance disc 1306 relative to the entry port 1348 and the exit port 1350. In the example shown, the disc alignment features 1352 include grooves that are configured to receive corresponding tabs 1354 ( Figure 13G), and align the passage 1356 extending through the body 1358 of the scent disc 1306 with the inlet 1348 and the exit 1350. The inlet 1348, the exit 1350 and the passage 1356 can jointly (at least partially) define the fragrance passage 1328. The height H of the inlet 1348 and / or the exit 1350 can vary across the width W. In particular, the height H can be smaller near one or more ends of the width and larger between (e.g., in the middle) one or more ends of the width. When the odor control assembly 1300 rotates, the varying height H can facilitate adjustment of the airflow through the fragrance passage 1328. The passage 1356 extending through the body 1358 of the scent disc 1306 may include a through hole aligned with the inlet and exit of the fragrance air path. The through hole can define a passage through the scent disc 1306, which is surrounded by the scent disc 1306 and has an inlet and an outlet. The through holes may also have a cross-section corresponding to the cross-sections of the entry opening 1348, the exit opening 1350. A benefit of the through holes in the scent disc 1306 is that it increases the surface area available for transferring fragrance particles into the air flowing through the scent disc 1306.

[0107] refer to Fig.13H Optionally, the bottom surface of the disc cartridge 1308 may include grooves or the like that allow the disc cartridge 1308 to be easily disconnected from the disc cap 1304. This may allow the user to remove the disc cartridge 1308 without having to touch the disc cartridge 1308.

[0108] In some cases, the odor control component 1300 may be Fig.13A and Fig. 13B 13. The odor control assembly 1300 includes an adjustment assembly 1302 consisting of a pivoting adjustment member 1302A and a fixing ring 1302B, a disc cap 1304, a fragrance disc 1306, and a disc cartridge 1308. The adjustment assembly 1302, the disc cap 1304, the fragrance disc 1306, and the disc cartridge 1308 are detachably coupled to each other to form the odor control assembly 1300. The adjustment assembly 1302, the disc cap 1304, the fragrance disc 1306, and the disc cartridge 1308 can be detachably fixed to each other in any manner known to those skilled in the art, such as, but not limited to, threaded connections, tabs, detents, clips, etc.

[0109] The adjustment assembly 1302 can be configured to allow a user to adjust the amount of fragrance particles introduced into the dirty air passage of the station dust cup 1210 based on the rotational movement of the adjustment assembly 1302 about the rotation axis 1222 (see Fig. 12A ). The adjustment component 1302 can be configured to transition the adjustment component 1302 between a plurality of user-selected positions.

[0110] When the user applies a rotational force to the adjustment assembly 1302, the odor control assembly 1300 is rotated as a unit relative to the cleaning system 1101 and / or the station dust cup 1210, thereby controlling the amount of input air allowed to pass through the odor control assembly 1300 and into the station dust cup 1210. The user-selectable positions may include at least a fully open position to release a first predetermined amount of fragrance from the fragrance component into the station dust cup 1210, and a closed position to substantially prevent and / or minimize the amount of fragrance released into the station dust cup 1210 of the cleaning system 1101. The user may rotate the adjustment assembly 1302, and thereby the odor control assembly 1300, to any position between the fully open position and the substantially closed position to achieve a desired amount of fragrance released into the station dust cup 1210.

[0111] The plurality of user-selectable positions may include a release position. The release position may be located at a position outside the rotational direction of the user-selectable position for adjusting the output of the fragrance particles. In the release position, the adjustment assembly 1302 may be configured to separate from the station dust cup 1210 based on a pulling force provided by a user along an axis extending substantially parallel (e.g., coaxial) to the rotation axis 1222. The adjustment assembly 1302 and the fragrance disc 1306 may be separated from the station dust cup 1210 in the release position. The adjustment assembly 1302 and the fragrance disc 1306 may be fixed together so that when the adjustment assembly 1302 is separated from the station dust cup 1210, the adjustment assembly 1302 and the fragrance disc 1306 remain coupled together. In some cases, the release position may allow the entire odor control assembly 1300 to be separated from the station dust cup as a unit.

[0112] The adjustment assembly 1302 may include a pivoting adjustment member 1302A that may pivot about a pin 1303 that is inserted into a corresponding hole (not shown) in the disc cap 1304. A user may rotate the pivoting adjustment member 1302A away from the disc cap 1304 to facilitate rotating the adjustment assembly 1302. Additionally, a user may rotate the pivoting adjustment member 1302A to allow the scent disc 1306 to be removed and replaced.

[0113] Fig. 13C is a front view of the odor control assembly 1300, and Fig.13D A side view of the odor control assembly 1300 is shown. Fig. 13C and Fig.13D 1 shows how the adjustment assembly 1302 controls the amount of fragrance particles that are allowed to pass through the odor control assembly 1300 into the station dust cup 1210, and thereby controls the amount of fragrance particles released into the station dust cup 1210. Fig. 13C and Fig.13DAs can be seen in FIG. 1 , the disc cartridge 1308 and the scent disc 1306 have an opening 1314 on the left side of the disc cartridge 1308 and the scent disc 1306, and an opening 1316 on the right side of the disc cartridge 1308 and the scent disc 1306. In the fully open position, the openings 1314 and 1316 are respectively aligned with the inlet port ( Fig.15 1502) and output ports ( Fig.15 1504 in the odor control chamber 1212). As the adjustment assembly 1302 is rotated toward the minimum position, the openings 1314 and / or 1316 rotate away from the inlet port 1502 and / or the outlet port 1504 until, when fully rotated, the inlet port 1502 and / or the outlet port 1504 are substantially blocked (i.e., the openings 1314 and / or 1316 are not aligned with the inlet port 1502 and / or the outlet port 1504). The minimum rotational position and the maximum rotational position of the adjustment assembly 1302 can be limited by the interaction of the cam 1310 with the matching protrusion 1214 in the odor control chamber 1212. Of course, it should be understood that the amount of fragrance particles dispensed from the odor control assembly 1300 into the station dust cup 1210 can be adjusted in any manner known to those skilled in the art in view of the present application.

[0114] Fig.14A The odor control assembly 1300 is installed in the station dust cup 1210 in the docking station 1200. Fig. 12A 14, and 14. The front cross-sectional view taken along line AA of the docking station 1200 shows an inlet air path 1330 for clean air from the exterior of the docking station 1200 to the odor control assembly 1300. In some embodiments, the docking station 1200 may include a bleed hole 1432 that is fluidly coupled to the inlet air path 1330 so that the station suction motor (e.g. Figure 1The station suction motor 122 of the station suction motor 122 when activated causes air to be drawn through the inlet air path 1330 and through the odor control assembly 1300 into the station dust cup 1210. The inlet air path 1330 may also include a backflow preventer 1320 configured to substantially seal the odor control assembly 1300 from the atmosphere (e.g., when the station suction motor 122 is turned off). In one example, the backflow preventer 1320 may include one or more one-way valves or one-way doors, which may be further configured to return to a seated / sealed position when the flow rate and / or pressure of air through the inlet air path 1330 drops below a threshold value (e.g., the station suction motor 122 is turned off) to minimize or otherwise substantially prevent air from escaping from the inlet air path 1330 (e.g., substantially preventing airflow from the odor control assembly 1300 to the atmosphere). The backflow preventer 1320 can increase the life of the odor control assembly 1300 by minimizing exposure of the odor control assembly 1300 to the atmosphere when the flow rate and / or pressure within the inlet air path 1330 is below a threshold, thereby minimizing the amount of fragrance particles dispensed by the odor control assembly 1300.

[0115] In some other embodiments, the bleed hole and air path 1330 may be eliminated. For example, the odor control assembly 1300 (e.g., the disc cartridge 1308 and / or the fragrance disc 1306) may be at least partially exposed and / or disposed within the debris chamber 1640. Air may be drawn through the odor control assembly 1300 (e.g., the disc cartridge 1308 and / or the fragrance disc 1306), for example, by suction from the station suction motor 122 and / or the cleaner suction motor 106. The odor control assembly 1300 may also distribute fragrance particles into the debris chamber 1640 without using suction from the station suction motor 122 and / or the cleaner suction motor 106. For example, the odor control assembly 1300 may diffuse fragrance particles into the debris chamber 1640 due to the odor control assembly 1300 being at least partially disposed within the debris chamber 1640.

[0116] Fig. 14B 1 is a front perspective view of the odor control assembly 1300 installed in the station dust cup 1210, which shows the inlet air path 1330 between the backflow preventer 1320, which is a one-way door, and the inlet port 1348 of the odor control assembly 1300 (e.g., the disc 1308). The inlet air path 1330 is at least partially defined by a chamber formed by the side wall 1322, which at least partially surrounds the odor control assembly 1300 (e.g., the disc 1308) and is fluidly coupled to the station suction motor. The cross-sectional size of the inlet port 1348 in fluid communication with the inlet air path 1330 will increase or decrease depending on the rotational position of the odor control assembly 1300 selected by the user relative to the docking station 1200 and / or the station dust cup 1210. Fig. 14B The example of 1300 shows the odor control assembly 1300 in the open position. When the odor control assembly 1300 is rotated, the cross-sectional size of the inlet port 1348 in fluid communication with the inlet air path 1330 will become smaller, thereby causing fewer fragrance particles to be distributed into the debris cavity of the station dust cup 1210. In the closed position, the cross-sectional size of the inlet port 1348 is no longer in fluid communication with the inlet air path 1330, substantially preventing air from flowing through the odor control assembly 1300, and substantially preventing fragrance particles from being disposed into the debris cavity of the station dust cup 1210.

[0117] Fig. 14C 1 is a rear perspective view of the odor control assembly 1300 installed in the station dust cup 1210, showing the outlet air path 1430 between the exit 1350 of the disc cartridge 1308 and the station dust cup inlet port 1318. The outlet air path 1430 is formed by the outlet chamber 1324, which fluidly couples the exit 1350 to the station dust cup inlet port 1318.

[0118] Fig.15 is along Fig.11 BB, showing the inlet air path 1530 as air enters through the backflow preventer 1320, which is a one-way door, and passes through the odor control assembly 1300 from the inlet port 1348, through the fragrance disk 1306, and exits the fragrance disk 1306 through the exit port 1350. The air path 1530 then enters the station dust cup 1210 via the outlet chamber 1324.

[0119] Fig.16 is along Fig.11 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 1210, 1220, 1230, 1240, 125, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 153, 144, 154, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 171, 17

[0120] The station dust cup 1210 includes a body 1642 that at least partially defines a debris chamber 1640. The body may include, for example, one or more top sidewalls 1644. Optionally, the station dust cup 1210 may include one or more covers 1646. The covers 1646 may be configured to substantially seal with the body 1642 and may be configured to transition to an empty position in which a user may remove debris from the debris chamber 1640. For example, the covers 1646 may be completely removable from the body 1642 or hingedly coupled to the body 1642. Optionally, the body 1642 may include one or more handles 1648.

[0121] The odor control assembly 1300 can be configured to be removably secured to the body 1642 and / or the cover 1646. In the example shown, the odor control assembly 1300 can be removably secured to the top sidewall 1644. The cover 1646 can be located near the bottom of the debris chamber 1640. The user can grasp the station dust cup 1210 by the handle, turn the cover 1646 to the empty position, and remove debris from the debris chamber 1640. By securing the odor control assembly 1300 to the body 1642, the user can empty the debris chamber 1640 without having to contact the odor control assembly 1300. In addition, for example, when the station suction motor 122 is turned off, positioning the odor control assembly 1300 on the top sidewall 1644 can substantially prevent debris from contacting the odor control assembly 1300.

[0122] Fig.17 1 is a side view of another embodiment of a docking station 1200 for a vacuum cleaner showing a station exhaust port 1734 disposed on a side of the docking station 1200. Fig.17 In the embodiment of FIG. 16A , the air path 1630 still pushes the output air through the output air filter 1632 and out through the station exhaust port 1734 . It should be appreciated that the station exhaust port 1734 can be located anywhere on the docking station 1200 .

[0123] Although docking station 1200 is shown in combination with handheld vacuum cleaner 1100, it should be understood that docking station 1200 can be used with any vacuum cleaner, including but not limited to robotic vacuum cleaners. In some cases, vacuum cleaner 1100 can have an odor control assembly 1300 fluidly coupled to the vacuum cleaner in addition to or in lieu of an odor control assembly coupled to the station dust cup. In some cases, the odor control assembly for the vacuum cleaner and the odor control assembly for the docking station can be the same and interchangeable.

[0124] Fig.18A is a perspective view of a station dust cup showing an alternative bleed hole location for inlet air to the odor control assembly. In some cases, such as Fig.18AAs shown in , the drain hole 1432 can be provided on the right side of the station dust cup 1210. Fig.18A In the case shown in , the drain hole 1432 is set on the right side of the station dust cup 1210, and allows air to enter through the drain hole 1432 and travel through the air channel 1802 in the station dust cup 1210 to reach the inlet port 1348 of the odor control assembly 1300.

[0125] Fig.18B is along Fig.11 A front cross-sectional view of the docking station 1200 taken along line CC of FIG. Fig.18A An alternative vent hole 1432 location for the inlet air of the odor control assembly. An air channel 1802 is shown in this figure.

[0126] In other cases, drain hole 1432 may be located anywhere in docking station 1200 .

[0127] In some cases, the odor control assembly 1300 may be located anywhere in the docking station 1200 that provides an air path to allow fragrance particles to be pushed into the station dust cup 1210. Fig.19 is a perspective view of a docking station 1200 for a vacuum cleaner 1100 showing an alternative location for an odor control assembly 1300. Fig.19 In the embodiment of the present invention, the odor control assembly 1300 can be disposed on the docking station 1200, rather than on the station dust cup 1210 as described above. In this case, the odor control assembly 1300 can be fluidly coupled to the upper duct 116 to evacuate the cleaner dust cup 108 using suction of the main air path 1630 (i.e., the air path used by the station suction motor), thereby drawing air through the bleed hole 1432 and through the fragrance disc 1306 to output fragrance particles to the station dust cup 1210.

[0128] like Fig.19 , the odor control assembly 1300 is coupled to a bracket 1902, which includes an odor control chamber 1212. The bracket 1902 includes a drain hole 1432, which may be disposed at a first end of the bracket 1902, and an outlet chamber 1324, which may be disposed at a second end of the bracket 1902 opposite the first end of the bracket 1902. The bracket 1902 may be mounted so that the drain hole 1432 is generally pointed in a downward direction when the docking station 1200 is in an upright position (i.e., ready to receive the vacuum cleaner 1100). This helps prevent debris from entering the drain hole 1432. The bracket 1902 also includes an inlet port 1502 and an outlet port 1504 for the odor control assembly 1300.

[0129] In some embodiments, the odor control assembly 1300 can be used in a docking station for a robotic vacuum cleaner. Fig. 20 A front perspective view of a docking station 2000 for a robotic vacuum cleaner 2001 is shown including one or more odor control assemblies 1300 that can be coupled to a robotic station dust cup 2010 that at least partially defines a debris chamber 2002. The docking station 2000 also includes a dirty air inlet 2003, one or more filters 2004, a station exhaust port 1734, and optionally a station suction motor 122. The dirty air inlet 2003 is configured to fluidly couple with the robotic vacuum cleaner 2001 in any manner known to those skilled in the art. The docking station 2000 and the robotic vacuum cleaner 2001 are configured to transfer debris stored within the robotic vacuum cleaner 2001 to the robotic station dust cup 2010 in the docking station 2000. The debris can be transferred using one or more of the station suction motor 122 and / or the cleaner suction motor 106.

[0130] The dirty air inlet 2003 may be fluidly coupled to the robot station dust cup 2010 (e.g., the debris chamber 2002). One or more filters 2004 may be configured to remove at least some of the debris in the dirty airflow from the robot vacuum cleaner 2001. The removed debris may be at least partially stored in the debris chamber 2002. The cleaned air may ultimately exit the robot docking station 2000 via one or more station exhaust ports 1734.

[0131] In one embodiment, operation of one or more odor control components 1300 in the robot docking station 2000 may include a bleed path (such as, but not limited to, a bleed hole and air path 1330) as generally described above with respect to the docking station 1200. For example, Fig.21 is along Fig. 20 DD, showing the inlet air path 1330. As in the docking station 1200, air is drawn into the inlet port 1348 by the suction generated by the station suction motor 122, passes through the fragrance disc, and then exits the odor control assembly 1300 via the exit port 1350. The outlet air from the odor control assembly 1300 with fragrance particles is then output into the robotic station dust cup 2010. In one embodiment, air is drawn into the inlet port 1348 from the outside of the docking station through a bleed hole (not shown).

[0132] Alternatively, the bleed path (e.g., bleed hole and air path 1330) may be eliminated. For example, the odor control assembly 1300 (e.g., the disc cartridge 1308 and / or the fragrance disc 1306) may be at least partially exposed and / or disposed within the debris chamber 2002. Air may be drawn through the odor control assembly 1300 (e.g., the disc cartridge 1308 and / or the fragrance disc 1306), for example, by suction from the station suction motor 122 and / or the cleaner suction motor 106. The odor control assembly 1300 may also distribute fragrance particles into the debris chamber 2002 without using suction from the station suction motor 122 and / or the cleaner suction motor 106. For example, the odor control assembly 1300 may diffuse fragrance particles into the debris chamber 2002 due to the odor control assembly 1300 being at least partially disposed within the debris chamber 2002.

[0133] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning system is provided, the system comprising: a docking station, the docking station comprising: a station suction inlet, the station suction inlet being configured to be fluidly coupled to a vacuum cleaner; a station dust cup, the station dust cup being configured to be removably fluidly coupled to the docking station, the station dust cup comprising a debris chamber; an odor control component, the odor control component being fluidly coupled to the station dust cup; and a station suction motor, the station suction motor being configured to cause air to flow into the station suction inlet and through the station dust cup, wherein the station suction motor is configured to generate an airflow through the odor control component and into the debris chamber.

[0134] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning system is provided, comprising: a vacuum cleaner; a docking station, the vacuum cleaner being configured to dock with the docking station, the docking station comprising: a station suction inlet, the station suction inlet being configured to be fluidly connected to the vacuum cleaner; a station dust cup, the station dust cup being configured to be removably fluidly connected to the docking station, the station dust cup comprising a debris chamber; an odor control component, the odor control component being fluidly connected to the station dust cup; and a station suction motor, the station suction motor being configured to cause air to flow into the station suction inlet and through the station dust cup, wherein the station suction motor is configured to generate an airflow through the odor control component and into the debris chamber.

[0135] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning system is provided, which includes: a vacuum cleaner; a first odor control component, which is fluidly connected to the vacuum cleaner; a docking station, the vacuum cleaner is configured to dock with the docking station, the docking station including: a station suction inlet, which is configured to be fluidly connected to the vacuum cleaner; a station dust cup, which is configured to be removably fluidly connected to the docking station, and the station dust cup includes a debris chamber; a second odor control component, which is fluidly connected to the station dust cup; and a station suction motor, which is configured to cause air to flow into the station suction inlet and through the station dust cup, wherein the station suction motor is configured to generate an airflow through the second odor control component and into the debris chamber; and wherein the first odor control component and the second odor control component are interchangeable.

[0136] Although the principles of the present invention have been described herein, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that this description is intended only as an example and not as a limitation on the scope of the present invention. In addition to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein, other embodiments are also within the scope of the present invention. Modifications and substitutions made by those of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present invention, and the scope of the present invention is limited only by the following claims.

Claims

1. A cleaning system, characterized in that: The cleaning system comprises: A docking station, the docking station comprising: a station suction inlet configured to be fluidly coupled to a vacuum cleaner; a station dust cup configured to be removably fluidly coupled to the docking station, the station dust cup including a debris chamber; an odor control assembly fluidly coupled to the station dust cup; and A station suction motor is configured to flow air into the station suction inlet and through the station dust cup, wherein the station suction motor is configured to generate an airflow through the odor control assembly and into the debris chamber.

2. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein: The docking station also includes a base configured to be removably secured to the station dust cup, the base including the station suction motor.

3. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein: The odor control component comprises: Scented discs; and A dial body is configured to be removably secured to the station dust cup and is configured to receive a scent disk, wherein the dial body at least partially defines a fragrance cavity configured to receive and substantially enclose the fragrance disk.

4. The cleaning system according to claim 3, wherein: The odor control assembly also includes: One or more fragrance passages configured to allow air to flow through the fragrance disc to transfer fragrance particles into the air to form scented air.

5. The cleaning system according to claim 4, wherein: The docking station also includes: a bleed hole disposed in an outer surface of the docking station and configured to allow external air to be drawn into the docking station; and An inlet air path is provided to fluidly couple the bleed hole with the one or more fragrance passages.

6. The cleaning system according to claim 5, wherein: The inlet air path also includes a backflow preventer, wherein the backflow preventer is configured to seal the odor control assembly from the atmosphere to substantially prevent air from escaping from the inlet air path.

7. The cleaning system according to claim 6, wherein: The backflow preventer includes a one-way valve.

8. The cleaning system according to claim 4, wherein: The dial body comprises: disk hat; and A disc cartridge is removably coupled to the disc cap to at least partially form the fragrance chamber and the one or more fragrance passages, the disc cap including an inlet and an exit to the one or more fragrance passages, wherein atmosphere flows through the inlet, across the fragrance disc and out of the exit.

9. The cleaning system according to claim 8, wherein: The disc cap also includes: a fixing ring fixed to the disc cap; and One or more rotatable sections that function as a handle to assist in inserting and removing the odor control assembly into the station dust cup.

10. The cleaning system according to claim 8, wherein: The disc cylinder also includes: a base; and One or more side walls extending upwardly from the base, wherein: the one or more side walls defining a disc chamber configured to receive the scent disc; The one or more side walls at least partially define an entry opening and an exit opening to the one or more fragrance passageways; The inlet and outlet openings to the one or more fragrance passages are substantially aligned 180 degrees relative to each other; and The one or more side walls include one or more disc alignment features for aligning the one or more fragrance passages with the entry port and the exit port.

11. The cleaning system according to claim 10, wherein: The odor control assembly is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position within the station dust cup to adjust at least one of the cross-sectional sizes of an entry opening or an exit opening to the one or more fragrance passages to cover or expose the one or more fragrance passages, thereby regulating the amount of air drawn through the one or more fragrance discs.

12. The cleaning system according to claim 8, wherein: The station dust cup includes an outlet air path formed by an outlet chamber between an exit from the one or more fragrance passages and an inlet port of the station dust cup, wherein the outlet air path draws the fragrance air from the odor control assembly into the station dust cup.

13. The cleaning system of claim 1, wherein: The cleaning system also includes an odor control cavity at least partially disposed in a top surface of the station dirt cup, the odor control cavity being configured to at least partially receive the odor control assembly.

14. A cleaning system, characterized in that: The cleaning system comprises: Vacuum cleaner; a docking station, the vacuum cleaner being configured to dock with the docking station, the docking station comprising: a station suction inlet configured to be fluidly coupled to the vacuum cleaner; a station dust cup configured to be removably fluidly coupled to the docking station, the station dust cup including a debris chamber; an odor control assembly fluidly coupled to the station dust cup; and A station suction motor is configured to flow air into the station suction inlet and through the station dust cup, wherein the station suction motor is configured to generate an airflow through the odor control assembly and into the debris chamber.

15. The cleaning system of claim 14, wherein: The docking station also includes a base configured to be removably secured to the station dust cup, the base including the station suction motor.

16. The cleaning system of claim 14, wherein: The odor control component comprises: Scented discs; and A dial body is configured to be removably secured to the station dust cup and is configured to receive a scent disc, wherein the dial body at least partially defines a fragrance cavity configured to receive and substantially enclose the scent disc.

17. The cleaning system of claim 16, wherein: The odor control assembly also includes: One or more fragrance passages configured to allow air to flow through the scent disk to transfer fragrance particles into the air to form scented air that flows into the debris chamber.

18. The cleaning system of claim 14, wherein: The vacuum cleaner is a handheld vacuum cleaner.

19. The cleaning system of claim 14, wherein: The vacuum cleaner is a robotic vacuum cleaner.

20. A cleaning system, characterized in that: The cleaning system comprises: Vacuum cleaner; a first odor control assembly fluidly coupled to the vacuum cleaner; a docking station, the vacuum cleaner being configured to dock with the docking station, the docking station comprising: a station suction inlet configured to be fluidly coupled to the vacuum cleaner; a station dust cup configured to be removably fluidly coupled to the docking station, the station dust cup including a debris chamber; a second odor control assembly fluidly coupled to the station dust cup; and A station suction motor is configured to flow air from the vacuum cleaner into the station suction inlet and through the station dust cup, wherein the station suction motor is configured to generate an airflow through the second odor control assembly and into the debris chamber.

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