Vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool

Abstract

An auxiliary tool for use with a vacuum cleaner. The auxiliary tool has a hair removal system configured to collect hair from various surfaces to be cleaned, including soft surfaces, such as ornaments, dog beds, pillows, and automotive interiors. The collected hair is gathered by a hair removal system and sucked via a vacuum cleaner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool. Background Art

[0002] Vacuum cleaners are known for removing dry or wet debris from surfaces, including fabric-covered surfaces such as carpets and upholstery, and bare surfaces such as hardwood, linoleum, vinyl, and tile, and include a suction source for generating a vacuum force on the surface to remove debris. Pet hair from shedding animals such as dogs and cats can be easily captured in fabrics such as carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and other similar items. While a vacuum cleaner can pick up some hair, a significant portion of the hair can become trapped within the fibers of the fabric, making it impossible for the vacuum cleaner to pick up the hair on its own. Vacuum cleaners also have similar problems picking up other small debris. Summary of the invention

[0003] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to an auxiliary tool, comprising: a main housing assembly, which defines a lower side having an outer periphery; a suction nozzle, which is arranged on an inner portion of the lower side; a duct, which is provided with the main housing assembly and is suitable for being connected to a suction source away from the main housing assembly, the suction source being suitable for generating a working airflow from the suction nozzle through the main housing assembly to the duct; and a group of hair collection elements, which are arranged on the lower side between the suction nozzle and the outer periphery, and the group of hair collection elements are configured to generate a balling or aggregation effect of hair removed from a surface to be cleaned during use, so as to aggregate the removed hair into ball-like clusters and move the removed hair toward the suction nozzle.

[0004] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes an auxiliary tool, comprising: a main housing assembly, which defines a lower side having an outer periphery; a suction nozzle, which is arranged on a central portion of the lower side; a group of channels, which are formed in the lower side and extend from the outer periphery to the suction nozzle; a duct, which is provided with the main housing assembly and is suitable for being connected to a suction source away from the main housing assembly, the suction source being suitable for generating a working airflow from the suction nozzle through the main housing assembly to the duct; a group of hair collection elements, which are arranged on the lower side between the suction nozzle and the outer periphery, and the group of hair collection elements are configured to release hair from the surface to be cleaned, collect hair, make the hair into balls or aggregates, and then release the hair to at least one of the group of channels of the suction nozzle to form aggregated released hair during the movement of the lower side against the surface to be cleaned; and an airflow passage, which passes from the group of channels through the suction nozzle and the main housing assembly to the duct, wherein the aggregated released hair is automatically sucked in under the suction provided by the suction source. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] In the attached picture:

[0006] Figure 1is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner operably coupled to a vacuum cleaner accessory tool according to various aspects described herein.

[0007] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool.

[0008] Figure 2B yes Figure 1 Bottom view of the vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool.

[0009] Figure 3A is applicable to various aspects described herein Figure 1 A side perspective view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool for use with a vacuum cleaner.

[0010] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A Bottom perspective view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool.

[0011] Figure 4A is applicable to various aspects described herein Figure 1 A perspective view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool for use with a vacuum cleaner.

[0012] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A Bottom view of the vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool.

[0013] Figure 5A is applicable to various aspects described herein Figure 1 A perspective view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool for use with a vacuum cleaner.

[0014] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A Bottom view of the vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool.

[0015] Fig. 6A is applicable to various aspects described herein Figure 1 Bottom view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool for use with a vacuum cleaner.

[0016] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A A partially exploded perspective view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool.

[0017] Fig. 7A is applicable to various aspects described herein Figure 1 A perspective view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool for use with a vacuum cleaner.

[0018] Figure 7B yes Figure 5A A bottom view of the head of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool in a first position.

[0019] Figure 7C yes Figure 5A A bottom view of the head of the vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool in a second position.

[0020] Fig. 8A is applicable to various aspects described herein Figure 1 A top perspective view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool for use with a vacuum cleaner.

[0021] Figure 8B yes Fig. 8A Bottom perspective view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool.

[0022] Fig.9A is applicable to various aspects described herein Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool for use with a vacuum cleaner.

[0023] Fig. 9B yes Fig.9A Bottom view of the vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool.

[0024] Fig.10 yes Fig.9A A partially exploded view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool of the type shown in Figure 1, showing the interchangeable hair collection plates.

[0025] Fig.11A is applicable to various aspects described herein Figure 1 A side perspective view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool for use with a vacuum cleaner.

[0026] Fig. 11B yes Fig.11A Bottom view of the vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool.

[0027] Fig. 12A yes Fig.11A A cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool.

[0028] Fig. 12B yes Fig.11A Top view of the gear assembly of the vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool.

[0029] Fig.13 yes Fig.11A A perspective view of a portion of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool showing the gear assembly therein in a disengaged rotational position.

[0030] Fig.14A is applicable to various aspects described herein Figure 1 A perspective view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool for use with a vacuum cleaner.

[0031] Fig. 14B yes Fig.14A A cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Various aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to features and improvements for vacuum cleaner auxiliary tools. Pet hair can present challenges to both dry and wet vacuum cleaners because pet hair can become embedded and attached to carpets and upholstery in ways that make it difficult to remove. While conventional vacuum cleaners can remove some hair, typically much of the hair becomes embedded and trapped within the fibers of the fabric, preventing effective and complete removal by vacuum cleaner suction alone. Various aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to features and improvements for vacuum cleaner auxiliary tools for removing pet hair and collecting pet hair. Further features and improvements relate to an improved vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool suitable for cleaning pet beds and other soft surfaces where pet hair can collect, including upholstery, pillows, automotive interiors, and the like.

[0033] Figure 1 An auxiliary tool 40 according to one aspect of the present disclosure is shown operably coupled to an exemplary vacuum cleaner 10, which for purposes of illustration is shown as a "dry" vacuum cleaner 10. Details of suitable vacuum cleaners 10 for use with the auxiliary tool 40 are disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Nos. 6,810,557 to Hansen et al. and 7,188,388 to Best et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. As used herein, the term "dry" vacuum cleaner is used to refer to a vacuum cleaner that is not capable of fluid dispensing or fluid recovery without an auxiliary tool, and may include, but is not limited to, an upright, canister, stick, or handheld vacuum cleaner, a vacuum cleaner that can be converted between one or more of these types, or a built-in central vacuum cleaning system. As used herein, the term "wet" vacuum cleaner is used to refer to a vacuum cleaner that is capable of at least one of fluid dispensing (liquid or steam) or fluid recovery with or without an auxiliary tool, and capable of fluid dispensing or fluid recovery with or without an auxiliary tool, and may include, but is not limited to, vacuum mops, extractors, and carpet cleaners, including upright, canister, stick, or handheld vacuum cleaners, vacuum cleaners that are convertible between one or more of these types, or built-in central vacuum cleaning systems. In addition, vacuum cleaners used with the auxiliary tools described herein may be suitable for cleaning fabric-covered surfaces, such as carpet and upholstery, or bare surfaces, such as hardwood, linoleum, and tile.

[0034] The vacuum cleaner 10 shown is an upright vacuum cleaner 10 having an upright assembly 12, which includes a housing 14 pivotally mounted to a bottom assembly or base 16. The upright assembly 12 also includes a main support section 26 having a handle 32 at one end to facilitate movement by a user. A suction source housing 19 is formed at the opposite end of the upright assembly 12 to accommodate a suction source 20, which can be a vacuum fan / motor assembly, and the suction source is configured to generate a working airflow through a working air path of the vacuum cleaner 10, which extends from a "dirty" air inlet to a "clean" air outlet. The suction source 20 may form a portion of the working air path. In addition, the base 16 includes a suction nozzle 18 that is fluidly connected to the suction source 20.

[0035] The main support section 26 receives a separation and collection assembly 24 for separating debris and other contaminants from the working airflow. The separation and collection assembly 24 is shown here as including a cyclone module having a cyclone separator 28 for separating entrained debris from the working airflow and a collection chamber 22 for collecting the separated debris. The cyclone separator 28 may have a single cyclonic separation stage or multiple stages. It should be understood that other types of dirt separation and collection assemblies may be used, such as a centrifugal separator or a bulk separator. In another conventional arrangement, the filtration system may include filter bags. Regardless of its specific configuration, the filtration system may form a portion of the working air path through the vacuum cleaner 10. Additional filters may be provided in the filtration system, including pre-motor filters and post-motor filters.

[0036] At least a portion of the working air path to the separation and collection assembly 24 may be formed by the vacuum hose 34. The auxiliary tool 40 is configured to be operably coupled to the vacuum cleaner 10, and in particular, may be coupled to the vacuum hose 34, which is in fluid communication with the suction source 20 carried by the housing 14 of the vacuum cleaner 10. For example, one end 34a of the vacuum hose 34 may be selectively disconnected from the vacuum cleaner 10 and connected to the auxiliary tool 40 to use the auxiliary tool 40 for cleaning, such as Figure 1 As shown, the other end 34b remains in fluid communication with the separation and collection assembly 24. When the auxiliary tool 40 is used and the end 34a of the vacuum hose 34 is coupled to the auxiliary tool 40, the auxiliary tool 40 can form a "dirty" air inlet. Therefore, the vacuum cleaner 10 can draw in dirt-laden air through the auxiliary tool 40 and the hose 34 and draw it into the filtration system, such as the separation and collection assembly 24, where the dirt is collected for subsequent disposal. When the auxiliary tool 40 is not used and the two ends 34a, 34b of the vacuum hose 34 (which may include the ends 34a, 34b coupled to the base 16) are connected to the vacuum cleaner 10, the suction nozzle 18 can form a "dirty" air inlet. Alternatively, the auxiliary tool 40 can be selectively connected to a wand (e.g., a wand) coupled to the vacuum hose 34. Figure 4Aas shown), rather than being connected directly to the vacuum hose 34.

[0037] For the purpose of description in relation to the drawings, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “right”, “left”, “rear”, “front”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “inner”, “outer” and their derivatives shall be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 However, it should be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary.

[0038] Figure 2A The auxiliary tool 40 is shown in more detail. The main housing assembly 42 of the auxiliary tool 40 is formed by an upper housing 44 and a lower housing 46, and a suction nozzle 48 is formed on the underside of the main housing assembly 42. It should be understood that although the auxiliary tool 40 is shown as having a two-piece main housing assembly 42, the auxiliary tool 40 can be formed in any suitable manner, including having a single main housing or multiple main housings fixed together.

[0039] The hose attachment 50 may be integrally formed with the main housing assembly 42. The hose attachment 50 may include a body, such as a conduit 51 with an outlet 52. In the illustrated example, the conduit 51 is integrally formed with the upper housing 44. However, it should be understood that the conduit 51 may alternatively be formed, mounted, or operably coupled to the upper housing 44 in any suitable manner. The conduit 51 defined by the hose attachment 50 is at a slight angle to the body forming the upper housing 44, although it should be understood that this need not be the case. The hose attachment 50 may be configured to be coupled to the vacuum cleaner 10 ( Figure 1 ) is operably coupled to the vacuum hose 34 on the main housing assembly 42 so that fluid coupling can be generated via the outlet 52. The conduit 51 can also be used by the user to hold or grasp the auxiliary tool 40 and guide its movement on the surface to be cleaned. Alternatively or additionally, the upper portion of the upper housing 44 or other portions of the main housing assembly 42 can be held by the user.

[0040] The suction nozzle 48 may be defined by a suction nozzle inlet 54 located in the lower housing 46, and the suction nozzle inlet 54 of the auxiliary tool 40 may form a "dirty" air inlet when the auxiliary tool 40 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner 10. A working airflow may be drawn from the suction nozzle inlet 54 through an airflow passage 56 of the auxiliary tool 40 defined in the main housing assembly 42 to the outlet 52, partially indicated by arrows.

[0041] The lower housing 46 is shown as having a dome-shaped underside 58. The dome-shaped underside 58 has a profile with a distal-most extension 60 at the suction nozzle inlet 54. The distal-most extension 60 is the farthest or most extended point of the dome-shaped underside 58 and effectively forms a shoulder around the suction nozzle inlet 54. When the dome-shaped underside 58 is oriented downward, the dome-shaped underside 58 extends from the distal-most extension 60 to the outer periphery 62 of the dome-shaped underside 58 in an inclined or skewed manner. When the dome-shaped underside 58 is adjacent to the surface to be cleaned, the outer periphery 62 will be further away from the surface to be cleaned than the distal-most extension 60. Although the term "dome-shaped underside" is used, it is understood that the profile, geometry or shape of the underside can be an arc, a flat bevel or any suitable profile, thereby creating a shoulder effect around the suction nozzle inlet 54.

[0042] A set of channels 64 is formed in the dome-shaped underside 58. As used herein, a "set" may include any number of the elements described separately, including only one element. In the example shown, a plurality of channels are included in the set of channels 64.

[0043] The first conduit portion 66 forms part of the lower housing 46 and extends from the body forming the dome-shaped underside 58, the first conduit portion 66 terminating at a first end 68. A detent or flange 70 surrounds an outer surface 72 of the first conduit portion 66 near the first end 68. In the illustrated example, a flexible finger 74 forms the first end 68 of the first conduit portion 66 and the flange 70 is formed thereon. The flexible fingers 74 may be spaced apart from each other (as shown) or directly adjacent. An interior 76 of the first conduit portion 66 forms a portion of the flow path generally indicated by arrow 56.

[0044] The second duct portion 78 extends from the upper housing 44 and is sized to receive the first duct portion 66. More specifically, the interior 80 of the second duct portion 78 is sized larger than the exterior surface 72 of the first duct portion 66. Further, a channel, snap or groove 82 may be formed in the interior 80. The groove 82 may have a contour shape, profile or geometry that is complementary to the flange 70, as shown, or configured in any suitable manner to movably retain the flange 70. More specifically, the groove 82 may be adapted to axially retain the flange 70 and allow rotational movement of the first duct portion 66 within the second duct portion 78. In this manner, a sliding bearing may be formed by the first duct portion 66 within the second duct portion 78.

[0045] Still further, it is contemplated that at least one of the first duct portion 66 or the second duct portion 78 may be adapted such that rotation of the first duct portion 66 in the second duct portion 78 is indexed, rather than allowing the first duct portion 66 to freely rotate within the second duct portion 78. In such a case, the grooves 82 may be formed as a series of discrete grooves 82 around the interior 80 of the second duct portion 78, and the flange 70 located on the fingers 74 may be rotated in one or more directions to each indexable position formed via the interaction of the fingers 74 and the grooves 82. Furthermore, while the first duct portion 66 has been described as including the flange 70 and being retained within the second duct portion 78 having the grooves 82, it should be understood that it may be formed and arranged such that the second duct portion includes a flange portion and is received within a first duct having the grooves therein.

[0046] A first debris or lint and hair collecting element, referred to herein as first hair collecting element 84, is located on the underside of main housing assembly 42. Figure 2B 5 , the first hair collecting element 84 comprises a generally semicircular sheet of conventional oriented fabric, which is fastened to the dome-shaped underside 58, oriented around the nozzle inlet 54. Although four separate first hair collecting elements 84 are shown, it should be understood that any suitable quantity and orientation can be used. Two first hair collecting elements 84 are shown side by side and are spaced apart by the nozzle inlet 54 therebetween. The remaining two of the first hair collecting elements 84 are shown as being top and bottom and are spaced apart by the nozzle inlet 54 therebetween. All first hair collecting elements 84 are radially spaced apart from each other via a group of passages 64 extending from the nozzle inlet 54 to the outer periphery 62.

[0047] The first hair collecting element 84 can be fixed or mounted to the dome-shaped underside 58 of the lower housing 46 in any suitable manner. By way of non-limiting example, the first hair collecting element 84 can be sewn to the dome-shaped underside 58, or otherwise fastened via a suitable means (e.g., a fabric adhesive or melt bonding). Each first hair collecting element 84 includes a directional fabric having unidirectional oriented fibers 86. For the purpose of discussion, the unidirectional oriented fibers 86 have been shown as small arrows indicating the directional direction of the unidirectional oriented fibers 86. It should be understood that the term unidirectional oriented fibers refers to a group of fibers in which most of the fibers have the same overall arrangement and the same overall orientation, and further, the arrangement and orientation of the fibers may vary naturally and / or due to the manufacturing process.

[0048] The directional fabric of the first hair collecting element 84 may include a 450 denier base polyester material having a unidirectional polyester oriented fiber with a pile height of 1.3-1.7 mm. Denier is a term used in the textile industry and refers to a unit of linear mass density of a fiber, defined as mass per 9000 meters in grams. The fabric weight is preferably 450-500 grams per square meter, although additional weight is also suitable depending on the required flexibility. An example of a suitable directional fabric is commercially available from the Jurong City New Material Technology Manufacturing Plant as a "C-type" cotton lint fabric. Alternatively, the directional fabric may include other fabric types, such as velvet or other fabrics including cut or uncut fiber loops, such as natural fibers, synthetic fibers, glass fibers, silk threads or wool, provided that most of the fibers are oriented or tilted in one direction. Each first hair collecting element 84 is oriented inwardly so that when the auxiliary tool 40 moves against the surface to be cleaned, the unidirectional oriented fibers 86 effectively guide the debris toward this group of channels 64 and the suction nozzle inlet 54. Thus, the unidirectionally oriented fibers 86 of the first hair collecting element 84 are opposed to each other and are all oriented inwardly toward the set of channels 64 and the nozzle inlet 54 .

[0049] When mounted to a suction source including cleaning equipment, such as Figure 1 The auxiliary tool 40 shown can be used to effectively remove debris including hair from the surface to be cleaned according to the following method. The order discussed is for illustrative purposes only and is not meant to limit the method in any way, as it should be understood that these steps can be performed in a different logical order, can include additional or intervening steps, or the steps described can be divided into multiple steps without departing from the present disclosure.

[0050] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B During operation, a suction source may be provided via a cleaning device (e.g., vacuum cleaner 10), and the airflow path 56 may be configured so that air may flow in a rearward direction from the nozzle inlet 54 to the outlet 52 and to the connected vacuum cleaner 10 ( Figure 1 ). The airflow passage 56 may be defined at least in part by the interior 76 of the first duct portion 66 and the duct 51 leading to the outlet 52. The user may grasp the auxiliary tool 40 at any suitable location including the duct 51 or a portion of the main housing assembly 42 and press the dome-shaped underside 58 and the associated first hair collection element 84 against the surface to be cleaned. Next, the user wipes the auxiliary tool 40 over the surface to be cleaned.

[0051] It should be understood that the auxiliary tool 40 can be used in various ways, including moving along the left and right strokes, up and down strokes. The left and right strokes are similar to the up and down strokes, so only the left and right strokes will be described here, and it should be understood that the up and down strokes work in a similar manner. In the use of the left and right strokes, the user can first move the auxiliary tool 40 to the left side of the user along the surface to be cleaned in the left cleaning stroke, and then move the right cleaning stroke to the right side of the user in the opposite direction. It is conceivable that the user uses any combination of alternating and / or repeated cleaning strokes, left or right, to continue wiping the auxiliary tool 40 on the surface.

[0052] The left stroke is to place the unidirectional oriented fibers 86 on one of the side-by-side first hair collection elements 84, meaning that the left stroke tends to push the unidirectional oriented fibers 86 downward and inward toward the center of the dome-shaped underside 58 or the nozzle inlet 54. Conversely, the left stroke is opposite to placing the unidirectional oriented fibers 86 on the other of the side-by-side first hair collection elements 84. Thus, on the left stroke, the unidirectional oriented fibers 86 of the other of the side-by-side first hair collection elements 84 may tend to lift the fluff of any fibers that may be oriented generally in the opposite direction of the unidirectional oriented fibers 86 on the surface being cleaned and remove and collect lint, hair, and other debris therefrom.

[0053] The right cleaning stroke is to place the unidirectional oriented fiber 86 on another of the side-by-side first hair collecting elements 84, and is opposite to placing the unidirectional oriented fiber 86 on one of the side-by-side first hair collecting elements 84. Therefore, when the auxiliary tool 40 is wiped along the right cleaning stroke, the unidirectional oriented fiber 86 of another of the side-by-side first hair collecting elements 84 is pushed downward and inward toward the center of the dome-shaped underside 58 or the suction nozzle inlet 54. In addition, when the auxiliary tool 40 moves in the right cleaning stroke, the unidirectional oriented fiber 86 of another of the side-by-side first hair collecting elements 84 tends to release any previously collected lint, hair and debris. On the contrary, the relative unidirectional oriented fiber 86 of one of the side-by-side first hair collecting elements 84 tends to lift the fluff of any fiber that may be roughly oriented in the opposite direction of the unidirectional oriented fiber 86, and remove and collect lint, hair and other debris from it.

[0054] Although the method of using the auxiliary tool 40 is described with respect to alternating left and right strokes, it should be understood that multiple strokes in a single direction may be completed before alternating with one or more strokes in the opposite direction. In addition, it should be understood that the auxiliary tool 40 may be used in a similar manner on surfaces having unidirectional nap or non-unidirectional nap. In addition, the user may wipe with an up and down motion, which will work similarly to the side-to-side motion just described. Further, the auxiliary tool 40 may be moved in a rotational or circular motion.

[0055] It should be understood that regardless of the travel or movement of the user's hand holding the auxiliary tool, the lower housing 46 can rotate freely as shown by arrow 87. More specifically, when the user drags, pushes or otherwise moves the dome-shaped lower side 58 against the surface to be cleaned, friction can cause the lower housing 46, which is rotatably coupled to the upper housing 44, to rotate. In this way, the movement of the lower housing 46 against the surface to be cleaned can cause the first conduit portion 66 to rotate within the second conduit portion 78, so that the lower housing 46 rotates, partially rotates or pivots as the user uses it. It should be understood that the lower housing 46 is free to rotate in a full or partial rotational travel in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

[0056] Different from the traditional tool that gathers and keeps debris, during operation, auxiliary tool 40 makes debris into balls so that it is easy to suck through nozzle inlet 54. Particularly, the first hair collecting element 84 of auxiliary tool 40 tends to self-cleaning during operation. Therefore, auxiliary tool 40 provides the hair removal from the improvement of decorations and other soft surfaces to be cleaned. During operation, the movement and free rotation of lower housing 46 allow lint, hair and other debris released from the surface to be cleaned to be released by the unidirectional oriented fiber 86 of the first hair collecting element 84, and are collected, balled, rolled together, or gathered in other ways. When the cleaning stroke is switched to the left stroke from the right stroke again, the gathered hair tends to move towards this group of passages 64 and nozzle inlet 54, and is removed via the suction from auxiliary tool 40. Thus, as the user wipes the auxiliary tool 40 with alternating left and right cleaning strokes or with additional or alternating motions, lint, hair and other debris are removed from the surface, automatically gathered from the auxiliary tool, and removed via the set of channels 64 and suction within the nozzle inlet 54.

[0057] The placement and orientation of the first hair collection elements 84 about the nozzle inlet 54 allows the fabric segments and their unidirectionally oriented fibers 86 to be oriented so that the fibers point inwardly toward the nozzle inlet and are spaced apart via the set of channels 64. The free rotation of the lower housing 46 relative to the hose attachment 50 combined with the number and orientation of the first hair collection elements 84 causes hair on the soft surface to be cleaned to ball up and move toward the center of the auxiliary tool 40 for easy inhalation through the nozzle inlet 54 centered on the dome-shaped underside 58. More specifically, the first hair collection elements 84 release, collect, ball up, or gather hair, and then release the hair for ultimate inhalation by the auxiliary tool 40 and the vacuum cleaner 10.

[0058] Figure 3A and Figure 3BAn assist tool 140 according to another aspect of the present disclosure is shown and includes similar components as described for assist tool 40. Thus, similar components will be identified with similar numerals plus 100, with the understanding that the description of similar components applies to assist tool 140 unless otherwise noted.

[0059] One difference is that the auxiliary tool 140 includes a generally flat, rather than domed, underside 159. The underside 159 still includes the nozzle inlet 154 at its center and the contour changes of the set of channels 164, but is generally flat otherwise.

[0060] Furthermore, Figure 3B , although the auxiliary tool 140 is shown as including the first hair collection element 184, it can be seen that only two first hair collection elements 184 are shown instead of four. The two first hair collection elements 184 can be positioned side by side or up and down. The second hair collection element 188 and the first hair collection element 184 are alternately arranged around the suction nozzle inlet 154 and are spaced apart by this group of channels 164. By way of non-limiting example, the second hair collection element 188 may include alternative hair collection materials, such as elastomeric materials for removing hair from the surface to be cleaned. Some examples of suitable elastomeric materials include thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and silicone. It should be understood that the second hair collection element 188 can be formed in any suitable manner, including that it can include a soft elastomeric material with a nodule or other features (not shown), which will not damage the furniture or other obstacles it contacts. The second hair collection element 188 can be installed or otherwise applied to the lower side 159 in any suitable manner. For example, the second hair collecting element 188 may be bonded to the underside by various conventional attachment methods, such as adhesives, overmolding, or mechanical bonding.

[0061] The auxiliary tool 140 operates in the same manner as the auxiliary tool 40 described above, including having a rotating lower housing as shown by arrow 187, which is adapted to produce a twist and ball or gather of the removed hair so that the gathered hair moves toward the nozzle inlet 154 and is removed during use. The auxiliary tool 140 combines a second hair collection element 188, which catches stubborn hair but may not self-clean well, with the self-cleaning oriented fibers 186 of the first hair collection element 184, which may be less effective for deeply embedded hair.

[0062] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B According to another aspect of the present disclosure, Figure 1Another auxiliary tool 240 is provided for use with the vacuum cleaner of the present invention and includes similar components to those described for the auxiliary tool 40 and the auxiliary tool 140. Therefore, like components will be identified with like numbers plus the 200 series, and it should be understood that the description of like components applies to the auxiliary tool 240 unless otherwise indicated.

[0063] As with the auxiliary tool 140, the auxiliary tool 240 includes a generally flat, rather than domed, underside 259. The underside 259 includes a nozzle inlet 254 at its center and a change in contour of the set of channels 264, but is otherwise generally flat.

[0064] One difference is that a handle 245 is formed at an upper portion of the main housing assembly 242 and is freely rotatable relative to the remainder of the main housing assembly, which may improve feel and usability. The rotational movement is schematically illustrated via arrow 247.

[0065] Another difference is that the upper housing 244 includes a lower portion 249 about which the lower housing 246 rotates. More specifically, by way of non-limiting example, a rotatable bearing 266 may be formed by a portion of the lower housing 246. The rotatable bearing 266 may be mounted on the lower portion 249 so that the lower housing 246 can freely rotate relative to the upper housing 244, as indicated by arrow 287.

[0066] Another difference is that the vacuum hose end 34a ( Figure 1 ) can be operably coupled to the rod or crevice tool 241. The crevice tool 241 is adapted to be slidably received in a conduit 251, which forms a crevice tool mounting portion for holding the crevice tool 241 and can also serve as a handle. The latch 241a is adapted to releasably secure the crevice tool 241 in the conduit 251 via a catch 253.

[0067] As in Figure 4B As best seen in FIG. 2 , like auxiliary tool 40, auxiliary tool 240 is shown as including four first hair collection elements 284, which include unidirectional oriented fibers (not shown). The auxiliary tool 240 operates in the same manner as the auxiliary tools 40 and 140 described above, including a rotating lower housing schematically shown as arrow 287, which is suitable for generating twisting and balling or gathering of the removed hair, so that the gathered hair moves toward the suction nozzle inlet 254 and is removed during use. The auxiliary tool 240 removes pet hair by side-to-side motion, front-to-back motion, or up-and-down motion, and circular or semi-circular motion.

[0068] Figure 5Ais a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner accessory tool 340 that includes similar components to those described for accessory tool 240; therefore, like components will be identified with like reference numerals plus 100, with the understanding that unless otherwise noted, the description of like components applies to accessory tool 340. Like accessory tool 240, accessory tool 340 may also receive a crevice tool 341 or wand.

[0069] One difference is that the main housing assembly 342 is a single or unitary component that is non-rotatable. Instead, the main housing assembly includes a plurality of prongs or fingers 343 that form a lower portion 344 of the main housing assembly 342. It should be understood that any number of fingers may be included in the main housing assembly 342, and that the fingers may be oriented in any suitable manner. In the illustrated example, by way of non-limiting example, the fingers are oriented in an X-shape, with a central hub 355 from which a hose attachment 350 defined by a conduit 351 extends.

[0070] As in the previous example, a set of channels 364 are formed in the underside 359, which is shown as a relatively flat underside 359. Figure 5B As shown, each of this group of passages 364 extends from the farthest end 360 of finger 343 to the suction nozzle inlet 354. Suction nozzle 348 defines an elongated suction nozzle inlet 354 that is located at the center. It should be understood that this need not be the case, and the suction nozzle inlet can be shaped in any suitable manner and be located at any suitable position. Further, a plurality of suction nozzle inlets can be located therein.

[0071] Also refer to Figure 5B , it can be seen that a plurality of first hair collecting elements 384 are located on the underside of the main housing assembly 342. More specifically, the first hair collecting elements 384 are included on each finger 343, wherein one first hair collecting element 384 is located on each side of the channel 364. As shown, each first hair collecting element 384 is an elongated member in which unidirectionally oriented fibers 386 are oriented generally toward each of the set of channels 364, respectively.

[0072] When the auxiliary tool 340 has no freely rotating portion, the auxiliary tool 340 operates in the same manner as described above, including that the auxiliary tool 340 is adapted to produce twisting and balling or gathering of the removed hair, so that the gathered hair moves toward the channel 364 and the suction nozzle inlet 354, and is removed during use via suction from the suction nozzle 248. The auxiliary tool 340 removes pet hair by side-to-side motion, front-to-back motion, or up-and-down motion, and circular or semi-circular motion.

[0073] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6BA vacuum cleaner accessory tool 440 is shown that includes similar components to those described for accessory tool 340 ; therefore, like components will be identified with like numerals increased by 100, with the understanding that the description of like components applies to accessory tool 440 unless otherwise noted.

[0074] As with the auxiliary tool 340, the auxiliary tool 440 does not have a rotating portion of the main housing assembly 442. Instead, the outer periphery 444a of the main housing assembly 442 forms a paddle. In the example shown, the outer periphery 444a is generally straight, including a length 445 and a width 447 that is less than the length 445. The outer periphery 444a includes rounded corners 449.

[0075] The set of channels 464 form an X-shape and extend from each fillet 449 to a central nozzle inlet 454. Although the nozzle inlet 454 is an elongated inlet that is centrally located and extends along a portion of the length of the outer perimeter 444a, this need not be the case.

[0076] exist Fig. 6A 4, it can be seen that a plurality of first hair collecting elements 484 are located on the underside of the main housing assembly 442. The set of channels 464 separates the underside of the main housing assembly 424, and each first hair collecting element 484 is sized accordingly to fit between the corresponding set of channels 464. As shown, the unidirectionally oriented fibers 486 are oriented generally toward the nozzle inlet 454.

[0077] refer to Figure 6B As can be seen, similar to the auxiliary tool 340, the auxiliary tool 440 can also receive a crevice tool 441 or a wand. The crevice tool 441 can include a rotatable diverter that allows the suction airflow to be directed to the crevice tool 441 when rotated. The crevice tool 441 can also include an indicator, such as a light, that can illuminate when suction is provided or when the auxiliary tool 440 is operably coupled and the latch 441a is depressed.

[0078] The auxiliary tool 440 operates in the same manner as the auxiliary tool 340 described above, including that the auxiliary tool 440 is adapted to release hair from the surface to be cleaned, collect the removed hair, and suction the collected hair via the channel 364 and the inlet 354. In this way, the auxiliary tool 440 removes pet hair through side-to-side motion, front-to-back motion, or up-and-down motion, as well as circular or semi-circular motion and self-cleaning.

[0079] Fig. 7A A vacuum cleaner accessory tool 540 is shown that includes similar components as described for accessory tool 240 ; therefore, like components will be identified with like numerals increased by 300, with the understanding that the description of like components applies to accessory tool 540 unless otherwise noted.

[0080] One similarity is that the upper housing 544 includes a lower portion 549 about which the lower housing 546 rotates. More specifically, by way of non-limiting example, a rotatable bearing 566 may be formed by a portion of the lower housing 546. The rotatable bearing 566 may be mounted on the lower portion 549 such that the lower housing 246 is rotatable.

[0081] Although the auxiliary tool 540 includes a rotatable lower housing 546, one difference is that the rotatable lower housing 546 cannot rotate freely; instead, the rotatable lower housing 546 can be indexed between two positions, the first position being Figure 7B and the second position is Figure 7C Shown in.

[0082] As in Figure 7B and Figure 7C As better shown in the bottom view of FIG. 5 , the outer perimeter 544a of the main housing assembly 542 forms a paddle. In the illustrated example, the outer perimeter 544a includes a length 545 greater than a width 547 and includes an elongated corner 549. It should be understood that the outer perimeter 544a may include any suitable shape, contour, or profile.

[0083] Only a single channel 564 is included and extends along the central length of the underside of the lower housing 546. The suction nozzle 548 is centrally located on the underside of the main housing assembly 542. In the illustrated example, when the lower housing 546 is in two indexable positions ( Figure 7B and Figure 7C When rotating between the upper and lower shells 546 and the lower shell 548, the shape, orientation or opening of the nozzle inlet changes as a portion of the lower shell 546 covers a different portion of the nozzle 548. Figure 7B It is shown as Figure 7C It should be understood that the elongated nozzle at any position is generally aligned with the channel 564 at the corresponding position. It should be understood that Figure 7B and Figure 7C The indexable positions shown are generally perpendicular to each other, allowing a user to change the orientation of the lower housing 546 relative to the rod 541. It should also be understood that additional indexable positions may be included intermediate or beyond the two shown positions.

[0084] Figure 7B Also shown is a first hair collecting element 584 located on the underside of the main housing assembly 542, on either side of the single channel 564. As shown, the unidirectionally oriented fibers 586 are oriented toward the other of the single channel 564 and the first hair collecting element 584.

[0085] The auxiliary tool 540 operates in the same manner as the auxiliary tool 240 described above, including that the auxiliary tool 540 is adapted to release hair from the surface to be cleaned, gather the removed hair, and suction the gathered hair via the channel 564 and the suction nozzle inlet 554. However, the auxiliary tool 540 removes pet hair by moving side to side, front to back, or up and down based on the orientation or indexed position of the lower housing 546.

[0086] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B Another vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool 640 is shown which can be used with Figure 1 The auxiliary tool 640 includes similar components to those described for the auxiliary tool 340; therefore, like components will be identified with like reference numerals plus 300, and it should be understood that the description of like components applies to the auxiliary tool 640 unless otherwise specified.

[0087] One difference is that, instead of having a receiver for a crevice tool or wand, the distal-most portion of the auxiliary tool 640, opposite the hose attachment 650, forms the crevice tool portion 641. The crevice tool portion 641 at the end of the auxiliary tool 640 is fluidly connected to the conduit 651 via a fluid passage 641b, which in turn forms a connection to the crevice tool portion 641. Figure 1 The working part of the vacuum cleaner's airflow.

[0088] The underside of the main housing assembly 642 also forms a hair remover paddle having a first side 690a and a second side 690b. The first side 690a and the second side 690b forming the underside 659 are oriented in an oblique manner toward the outside width of the main housing assembly 642. In the illustrated example, the outer periphery 644a includes a length 645 greater than the width 647 and includes rounded corners 649. It should be understood that the outer periphery 644a may include any suitable shape, profile or contour.

[0089] The elongated nozzle 648 at the junction of the first side 690a and the second side 690b forms a nozzle inlet 654 that extends along the central length of the lower side 659 of the main housing assembly 642. The inclined first side 690a and the second side 690b form a V-shape toward the nozzle inlet 654.

[0090] Each of the first side 690a and the second side 690b also has a hair collecting element 692a and 692b, respectively. The hair collecting elements 692a and 692b may include (by way of non-limiting example) alternative hair collecting materials, such as elastomeric protrusions for removing hair from the surface to be cleaned. The hair collecting elements 692a and 692b may also be oriented or angled to improve the manner in which hair is released from the surface to be cleaned.

[0091] Yet another difference is that the conduit 651 has ridges 653 adapted to form a built-in handle to assist the user in gripping the auxiliary tool 640. The auxiliary tool 640 operates in the same manner as the auxiliary tool 340 described above, including that the auxiliary tool 640 is adapted to release hair from the surface to be cleaned, collect the removed hair, and suction the collected hair via the nozzle inlet 654. However, the auxiliary tool 640 removes pet hair through a side-to-side motion and includes the functionality of a crevice tool portion 641 at its distal end.

[0092] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B Another aspect of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 Another auxiliary tool 740 is used with the vacuum cleaner of the present invention and includes similar components to those described for the auxiliary tool 40 and the auxiliary tool 140. Therefore, the same components will be identified with the same numbers plus the 700 series, and it should be understood that the description of the same components applies to the auxiliary tool 740 unless otherwise specified.

[0093] Identical with auxiliary tool 140, auxiliary tool 740 comprises main housing assembly 742, and it has upper housing 744 and lower housing 746, and both have generally flat rather than dome-shaped downside 759.Downside 759 comprises the profile variation of the suction nozzle inlet 754 at its center and this group of passage 764, but is generally flat in other respects.Yet a difference is that replaceable base plate forms downside 759, and can be removably mounted to the distal end portion 746a of lower housing 746.Replaceable base plate is mounted to distal end portion 746a, makes it be mounted to lower housing 746 and freely rotates with this lower housing.This group of passage 764 and hair removal material are positioned on the downside 759 formed by replaceable base plate.

[0094] Another difference is that the upper housing 744 includes an air leakage feature 792 adapted to adjust the suction through the nozzle inlet 754. More specifically, an opening or port 790 is included in the upper housing 744 along with an adjustable control knob 791. The adjustable control knob 791 is operably coupled to a movable body 794 located within the port 790, which is selectively movable to control the opening, closing, and size of the port 790, thereby controlling the suction through the nozzle inlet 754. Twisting the knob 791 in a first direction enlarges the port 790, creates or increases the air leakage schematically shown at 797, and reduces the suction through the nozzle inlet 754. Conversely, twisting the knob 791 in a second direction opposite to the first direction reduces the size of the port 790 or completely closes it, and increases the suction at the nozzle inlet 754. Adjusting the amount of air leakage changes the suction pressure at the bottom surface or underside 759 of the tool, which in turn changes the push / pull force felt by the user and the amount of airflow that pulls pet hair away from the upholstery. Tighter upholstery materials allow for higher suction pressures before the push / pull force becomes uncomfortable. It should be understood that the clean airflow 796 still optionally travels through the airflow path 756 via the passage 764, the nozzle inlet 754, and the interior portion of the main housing assembly 742.

[0095] Fig.10 A first replaceable plate 797a having only the first hair collection element 784 including unidirectionally oriented fibers (not shown) and a second replaceable plate 797b having only the second hair collection element 788 are shown as being selectively mountable to the lower housing 746 of the auxiliary tool 740. It should be understood that alternative replaceable plates having both the first and second hair collection elements or alternative hair collection elements are contemplated.

[0096] Also shown is an exemplary method of selectively coupling the first replaceable plate 797a and the second replaceable plate 797b to the distal end 746a of the lower housing 746. More specifically, a magnet 743 having a first polarity is shown as included on the distal end 746a of the lower housing 746. A magnet 753 of a second polarity opposite to the first polarity is shown as being located on the inner surface of the first replaceable plate 797a and the second replaceable plate 797b. Having a replaceable base plate and thus allowing the hair collection element to be changed can allow for higher and lower friction characteristics, which also balances hair removal performance with push / pull comfort and self-cleaning capabilities.

[0097] Further, the distal end 746a of the lower housing 746 and the inner surfaces of the first replaceable plate 797a and the second replaceable plate 797b will be understood to have complementary geometric shapes. By way of non-limiting example, the distal end 746a of the lower housing 746 includes an extension 745 nested in a recess or pocket 749 of the first replaceable plate 797a and the second replaceable plate 797b. Although these have been shown to coincide with the corresponding positions of the hair removal collection element, this need not be the case. Further, although the magnet has been shown to be located at such a nested profile feature, the magnet may also be located at any suitable position.

[0098] The auxiliary tool 740 operates in the same manner as the auxiliary tools 40 and 140 described above, including a rotating lower housing 746 having a configuration suitable for producing twisting and balling or gathering of the removed hair, so that the gathered hair moves toward the nozzle inlet 754 and is removed during use. The auxiliary tool 740 removes pet hair by side-to-side motion, front-to-back motion, or up-and-down motion, as well as circular or semi-circular motion.

[0099] Fig.11A Another auxiliary tool 840 is shown and includes similar components to those described for auxiliary tool 40 and auxiliary tool 140. Therefore, like components will be identified with like numbers plus the 800 series, and it should be understood that the description of like components applies to auxiliary tool 840 unless otherwise indicated. Like auxiliary tool 140, auxiliary tool 840 includes a main housing assembly 842, which has an upper housing 844 and a lower housing 846, both of which have a generally flat underside 859 that is different from the passage 864. One difference is that an air turbine assembly 841 is included in auxiliary tool 840 and is operably coupled to rotationally drive lower housing 846, rather than allowing lower housing 846 to rotate freely.

[0100] like Fig. 11B , another difference is that two first hair collection elements are located between each set of channels 864. Each pair of first hair collection elements 884 has alternate unidirectionally oriented fibers 886 as indicated by the arrows. Thus, instead of having a single piece of material between each set of channels 864, there are two pieces of material, and each piece of material has unidirectionally oriented fibers extending in opposite directions and generally oriented toward adjacent channels 864. Further, suction release holes 854a can be seen in the underside 859 of the lower housing 846 along the set of channels 864.

[0101] Fig. 12AA cross section of the auxiliary tool 840 is shown and better illustrates the gear train and linkage assembly 839 that operably couples the air turbine 841 and the lower housing 846. More specifically, the air turbine 841 provides an input to the turbine ring gear 845 of the planetary gear system that includes planetary gears 847 and a sun gear 849. The sun gear 849 that provides an output to the gear train includes a pin 849a therein that is received within a slot of a pivot link 857 that is operably coupled to the first conduit portion 866 of the lower housing 846. More specifically, an extension 866a of the conduit can be operably coupled to the pivot link 857. In FIG. Fig. 12B The gear train and connecting rod assembly are shown in FIG. 1 with rotating arrows to illustrate the movement of the gears during operation.

[0102] The auxiliary tool 840 operates in the same manner as the auxiliary tools 40 and 140 described above, including having a lower housing adapted to remove or release hair from a surface, produce a collection of removed hair, and suction the removed hair, such that the auxiliary tool 840 is adapted to be self-cleaning. More specifically, during operation, the air turbine 841 uses air from an attached vacuum source ( Figure 1 ) suction airflow 843( Fig.11A ) produces a rotational motion. The planetary gear train and connecting rod assembly 839 are used to reduce the speed and amplify the torque from the air turbine 841. The output of the planetary gear reduction device is used to drive the pivot connecting rod 857, which in turn drives the lower housing 846 of the auxiliary tool 840. The lower housing 846 of the auxiliary tool 840 swings to remove embedded pet hair from the decoration in one direction, and releases the released hair into the main suction airflow path in another direction. The placement direction of the hair removal material is oriented to facilitate hair removal and hair release when the rotation direction is reversed or swung. The narrow slot or channel 864 in the lower housing 846 provides a path for the suction airflow 896, and the suction release hole 854a is used to adjust the suction force. The auxiliary tool 840 is removed by the user through left and right motion, forward and backward motion, or up and down motion, and circular or semicircular motion. It should be understood that no matter how the user's motion is, the air turbine 841 drives the lower housing 846 and its lower side to swing.

[0103] If available Fig.13 As seen in FIG. 8 , a full rotation of the air turbine 841 and therefore a full rotation of the ring gear 845 produces an oscillating motion of the underside 859 of the lower housing 846. More specifically, the oscillating motion is a motion of the underside of the lower housing first 45 degrees counterclockwise and then 45 degrees clockwise. Fig.13Initially, the gear train and linkage assembly 839a is shown at a home position or with zero degrees of rotation and the corresponding zero degree or home position of the lower housing 846a. When the gear train and linkage assembly 839 is rotated 90 degrees as shown at 839b, the lower housing moves to a positive 45 degree position as shown at 846b. When the gear train and linkage assembly 839 continues to rotate another 90 degrees and thus rotates 180 degrees from the home position, as shown at 839c, the lower housing moves to the home position or zero degree position, as shown at 846c. When the gear train and linkage assembly 839 continues to rotate another 90 degrees and thus rotates 270 degrees from the home position, as shown at 839d, the lower housing moves to a negative 45 degree position as shown at 846d.

[0104] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B Another auxiliary tool 1040 is shown that includes similar components to those described for auxiliary tool 40 and auxiliary tool 140. Therefore, like components will be identified with like numbers plus the 1000 series, and it should be understood that unless otherwise indicated, the description of like components applies to auxiliary tool 1040. Like auxiliary tool 140, auxiliary tool 1040 includes a main housing assembly 1042 having an upper housing 1044 and a lower housing 1046, both of which have an underside 1059.

[0105] A difference is that the lower housing 1046 comprises a molding lower body similar to a molding plate. The lower side 1059 comprises a group of passages 1064 and a plurality of hair collector supports leading to the suction nozzle inlet 1054 from the outer periphery 1062, and these supports extend away from the upper housing 1044, wherein the passage 1064 is located between two adjacent supports of the plurality of hair collector supports. This produces a profile that the first hair collecting element 1084 extends toward the surface to be cleaned and is separated by the recess produced by this group of passages 1064. The upper side of the lower housing 1046 also comprises a molding body, which is a protrusion of the profile on the lower side 1059. More specifically, a ridge 1046a or a group of ridges 1046a is located on the upper side of the lower housing 1046, corresponding to the position of this group of passages 1064. Further, a recess 1046b is formed on the upper side of the lower housing 1046, corresponding to the position where the hair collector supports extend out on the lower side 1059. It has been found that contouring the lower housing 1046 or forming the lower housing 1046 as a profiled plate can provide increased rigidity and, when so formed, the lower housing 1046 will not flex or bend excessively during use. For example, adding ribs, contours, or curved surfaces to a flat plate can increase bending moments and structural rigidity compared to a completely flat plate.

[0106] Another difference is that the upper housing 1044 is shown as a two-piece housing including a first portion 1044a and a second portion 1044b. The first portion 1044a and the second portion 1044b can be mounted or operably coupled in any suitable manner. Fig. 14B , by way of non-limiting example, the coupling assembly can include a catch 1098 extending from the first portion 1044a and receiving an extension 1089 extending from the second portion 1044B. It should be understood that the upper housing 1042 can be formed in any suitable manner, including having a single main housing assembly or a multi-piece main housing assembly secured together in any suitable manner.

[0107] The upper housing is also shown to include a set of notches 1045 located at a front portion or edge that is generally opposite the hose attachment 1050. The set of notches 1045 extend over the first and second portions 1044a, 1044b of the upper housing 1044, but it should be understood that this need not be the case and that the notches may have any suitable length, shape, and profile. The notches 1045 are configured to provide a gripping detail on the upper housing 1044 that allows a user's fingers to have a secure, non-slip grip.

[0108] The auxiliary tool 1040 operates in the same manner as the auxiliary tools 40 and 140 described above, including a rotating lower housing 1046 having a configuration suitable for producing twisting and balling or gathering of the removed hair, so that the gathered hair moves toward the nozzle inlet 1054 and is automatically removed via suction during use. The auxiliary tool 1040 removes pet hair by moving side to side, front to back, or up and down, and in circular or semi-circular motions on the user.

[0109] Any of the above-mentioned auxiliary tools can be used together with a suction source, including a cleaning device, such as the vacuum cleaner 10, to form a system for cleaning and removing pet hair. Further, it should be understood that any of the above-mentioned auxiliary tools or systems can be used in a method for removal.

[0110] Several advantages of the present disclosure arise from the various features of the apparatus described herein. For example, the above-described aspects provide a vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool that provides improved hair removal from surfaces to be cleaned, including decorative items and other soft surfaces. In use, the vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool tends to ball up debris for ease of suction, so that the vacuum cleaner auxiliary tool tends to "self-clean" during operation. The channel also allows the suction airflow to be released to prevent the auxiliary tool 40 from being slapped down too tightly against the surface to be cleaned. This is particularly important for cleaning soft surfaces (such as decorative items) in which pet hair is embedded. In this way, the auxiliary tool has a hair removal system that is configured to collect hair from various surfaces to be cleaned, including soft surfaces, such as decorative items, dog beds, pillows, and car interiors. The collected hair is gathered by the hair removal system and sucked in via the vacuum cleaner.

[0111] Although a "dry" vacuum cleaner has been shown herein, it should be understood that any known vacuum cleaner or surface cleaning tool including a suction source is acceptable for use with the auxiliary tools described herein, including the autonomous robotic floor cleaner. For example, details of suitable "wet" vacuum cleaners for use with the auxiliary tools are disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Nos. 9,186,028 to White et al. and 6,279,196 to Kasen et al., both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. In addition, details of suitable "autonomous robotic floor cleaners" for use with the auxiliary tools are disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 705,781 to Scholten et al., the entireties of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0112] To the extent not yet described, the different features and structures of the various exemplary illustrations and explanations of the auxiliary tool can be used in combination with each other as needed. A feature may not be described in all exemplary illustrations, and the explanation does not mean that it cannot be explained, but is done for the sake of brevity of description. Therefore, the various features of the different exemplary illustrations and explanations of the auxiliary tool can be mixed and matched as needed to form a new auxiliary tool, regardless of whether the new auxiliary tool is explicitly described. For example, although an interchangeable plate is described only with respect to one example, it should be understood that it can be used with any of the described examples.

[0113] Further aspects of the disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses:

[0114] An auxiliary tool comprises: a main housing assembly defining a lower side with an outer periphery; a suction nozzle disposed on an inner portion of the lower side; a duct disposed with the main housing assembly and adapted to be connected to a suction source remote from the main housing assembly, the suction source adapted to generate a working airflow from the suction nozzle through the main housing assembly to the duct; and a set of hair collecting elements disposed on the lower side between the suction nozzle and the outer periphery, the set of hair collecting elements being configured to generate a balling or gathering effect of hair removed from a surface to be cleaned during use, so as to gather the removed hair into ball-like clusters and move the removed hair toward the suction nozzle.

[0115] The auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the main housing assembly further comprises an upper housing and a lower housing, the lower housing being at least one of freely rotatably coupled to the upper housing or indexably rotatably coupled to the upper housing.

[0116] The auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the lower housing further comprises a first conduit, the upper housing further comprises a second conduit, and wherein the first conduit is rotatably received within the second conduit, or the second conduit is rotatably received within the first conduit.

[0117] Auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein one of the first or second conduit comprises a flange and the other of the first or second conduit comprises at least one internal recess to receive the flange.

[0118] The assisting tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein one of the first conduit or the second conduit comprises a set of flexible fingers.

[0119] An assist tool as in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of flexible fingers are spaced around one of the first or second conduits.

[0120] An assisting tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the flange is located on the set of flexible fingers.

[0121] Auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the at least one internal recess is a series of discrete recesses.

[0122] An auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the upper housing comprises a recess at a front end opposite the duct, the recess being adapted to form a grip for a user's fingers.

[0123] An auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the upper shell is a two-piece body, which includes a first part and a second part and a latch, the first part and the second part are mounted together via a snap located on the first part of the two-piece body, and the latch is suitable for being received by the snap and is located on the second part of the two-piece body.

[0124] An auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the lower shell further comprises a molded lower body, the lower side of which has a plurality of hair collector supports and a channel, the hair collector supports extending away from the upper shell, and the channel being located between two adjacent hair collector supports among the plurality of hair collector supports.

[0125] Auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the upper side of the profiled lower body is a projection of the contour on the lower side.

[0126] An auxiliary tool as in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the underside comprises a set of channels formed in the underside and extending from the outer periphery to the suction nozzle.

[0127] An auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the group of hair collecting elements comprises a plurality of directional fabric hair collectors having unidirectional oriented fibers, and wherein the unidirectional fibers of each of the plurality of directional fabric hair collectors are oriented toward at least one channel or nozzle in the group of channels.

[0128] An auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising an air flow path from the set of channels through the nozzle and the main housing assembly to the duct, wherein hair is automatically drawn in under suction provided by the suction source.

[0129] An auxiliary tool as in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the underside comprises a set of channels formed in the underside and extending from the outer periphery to the suction nozzle.

[0130] An auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the group of hair collecting elements comprises a plurality of directional fabric hair collectors having unidirectional oriented fibers, and wherein the unidirectional fibers of each of the plurality of directional fabric hair collectors are oriented toward at least one channel or nozzle in the group of channels.

[0131] Auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the underside has a dome-shaped profile sloping from a suction nozzle which is centrally located to the outer periphery.

[0132] The auxiliary tool according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of hair collecting elements comprises at least one of a oriented fabric or an elastomeric material.

[0133] An auxiliary tool comprises: a main housing assembly, which defines a lower side having an outer periphery; a suction nozzle, which is arranged on a central portion of the lower side; a group of channels, which are formed in the lower side and extend from the outer periphery to the suction nozzle; a duct, which is provided with the main housing assembly and is suitable for being connected to a suction source away from the main housing assembly, the suction source being suitable for generating a working airflow from the suction nozzle through the main housing assembly to the duct; a group of hair collecting elements, which are arranged on the lower side between the suction nozzle and the outer periphery, the group of hair collecting elements being configured to release hair from a surface to be cleaned, collect hair, ball or gather hair, and then release the hair to at least one of the group of channels of the suction nozzle to form gathered released hair during movement of the lower side against the surface to be cleaned; and an airflow passage, which passes from the group of channels through the suction nozzle and the main housing assembly to the duct, wherein the gathered released hair is automatically sucked in under the suction provided by the suction source.

[0134] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail in conjunction with certain specific exemplary illustrations and explanations thereof, it should be understood that this is by way of illustration and not limitation. Reasonable variations and modifications are possible within the scope of the foregoing disclosure and the accompanying drawings without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims. Therefore, unless the claims expressly state otherwise, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the exemplary illustrations and explanations disclosed herein should not be considered limiting.

Claims

1. An auxiliary tool, comprising: a housing assembly defining a lower side; A suction nozzle, disposed inside the lower side; The housing assembly further comprises an outlet adapted to be connected to a suction source remote from the housing assembly, the suction source adapted to generate a working airflow from the suction nozzle through the housing assembly to the outlet; and a set of channels formed in the underside, wherein each channel in the set of channels extends away from the distal-most portion of the underside to form a groove in the underside, and wherein each channel in the set of channels extends from the nozzle toward the periphery; and a set of hair collecting elements disposed on the underside adjacent to the set of channels, the set of hair collecting elements being configured to produce a balling or gathering effect of hair removed from the surface to be cleaned during use, so as to gather the removed hair into ball-like clusters and move the removed hair toward the set of channels and the nozzle.

2. The auxiliary tool according to claim 1, wherein: The underside has an outer perimeter, and the suction nozzle is centrally located.

3. The auxiliary tool according to claim 2, wherein: The set of channels extends between the nozzle and the outer periphery.

4. The auxiliary tool according to claim 2, wherein: The underside has a dome-shaped profile that slopes from the suction nozzle toward the outer periphery.

5. The assisting tool according to claim 1, wherein: The set of hair collecting elements includes a plurality of oriented fabric hair collectors having unidirectionally oriented fibers.

6. The assisting tool according to claim 5, wherein: The unidirectionally oriented fibers of at least one oriented fabric hair collector of the plurality of oriented fabric hair collectors are oriented toward at least one channel of the set of channels or the nozzle.

7. The auxiliary tool according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: A portion of the hair collecting elements in the set of hair collecting elements comprises an elastomeric material.

8. The auxiliary tool according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The housing assembly includes an upper housing and a lower housing, and wherein the lower housing is configured to be freely movable relative to the upper housing during operation.

9. The assisting tool according to claim 8, wherein: The lower shell further comprises a molded lower body having a plurality of hair collector supports on its lower side, the hair collector supports extending away from the upper shell, and a channel in the set of channels being located between two adjacent hair collector supports in the plurality of hair collector supports.

10. The assisting tool according to claim 9, wherein: The upper side of the profiled lower body is a projection of the contour on the lower side.

11. An auxiliary tool comprising: a housing assembly defining an underside, wherein the housing assembly includes an upper housing and a lower housing, the upper housing having at least a portion adapted to be held by a user, the lower housing being movably coupled to the upper housing and configured to freely move against a surface to be cleaned when the at least a portion of the upper housing is held by a user; A suction nozzle, disposed inside the lower side; an outlet disposed with the housing assembly and adapted to be connected to a suction source remote from the housing assembly, the suction source being adapted to generate a working airflow from the suction nozzle through the housing assembly to the outlet; a set of channels formed in the underside, wherein each channel in the set of channels extends away from a distal-most portion of the underside to form a groove in the underside, and wherein each channel in the set of channels extends from the nozzle toward a periphery; and A set of hair collecting elements is arranged on the underside adjacent to the set of channels, the set of hair collecting elements being configured to produce a balling or gathering effect on the hair removed from the surface to be cleaned during use, so as to gather the removed hair into ball-like clusters and move the removed hair towards the nozzle via the set of channels.

12. The assisting tool according to claim 11, wherein: The lower housing is configured to freely rotate against the surface to be cleaned when the at least a portion of the upper housing is held by a user and moved along the surface to be cleaned.

13. The assisting tool according to claim 11, wherein: The lower shell also includes a first duct, and the upper shell also includes a second duct, and wherein the first duct is rotatably received in the second duct, or the second duct is rotatably received in the first duct, and the working airflow passes through both the first duct and the second duct.

14. The assisting tool according to claim 13, wherein: One of the first and second conduits includes a flange, and the other of the first and second conduits includes at least one internal recess that receives the flange.

15. The assisting tool according to claim 13, wherein: One of the first and second conduits includes a set of flexible fingers, and the other of the first and second conduits includes at least one internal recess that receives the set of flexible fingers.

16. The assisting tool according to claim 15, wherein: The set of flexible fingers are spaced around the one of the first and second conduits.

17. The assisting tool according to claim 15, wherein: The flange is located on the set of flexible fingers.

18. The assisting tool according to claim 13, wherein: The upper housing includes a recess at a front end opposite the second duct, the recess being adapted to form a grip for a user's fingers.

19. The assisting tool according to claim 11, wherein: The upper shell is a two-piece body, which includes a first part, a second part and a latch. The first part and the second part are mounted together via a snap located on the first part of the two-piece body, and the latch is suitable for being received by the snap and is located on the second part of the two-piece body.

20. The assisting tool according to claim 11, wherein: The set of hair collecting elements comprises a plurality of oriented fabric hair collectors having unidirectionally oriented fibers, and wherein the unidirectionally oriented fibers of each of the plurality of oriented fabric hair collectors are oriented toward at least one channel of the set of channels or the nozzle.

Images