Ventilation device for cleaning device

Abstract

A cleaning apparatus includes a base and a housing having a sidewall operably coupled with the base. The sidewall defines an interior of the housing and has an outer surface. A recess is formed in the outer surface of the sidewall and is at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess back wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall. A vent is disposed in the recess and forms at least one port in a rear wall of the recess that provides fluid communication with the interior. A retainer is coupled with the side wall and has a portion disposed opposite the recess rear wall such that the retainer covers a front portion of the at least one port. The retainer is configured to secure a component for the cleaning device with the housing together.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 527,363, filed on July 18, 2023, under 35 U.S.C. 119(e), the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to a cleaning device, and more particularly to a ventilator for a cleaning device. Background Art

[0004] The cleaning equipment may be exposed to liquid and generate heat. In addition, the cleaning device may have one or more holders for fixing equipment, utensils or tools used together with the cleaning device. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning device comprises a base and a shell having a side wall, and the side wall is operably connected to the base. The side wall defines the interior of the shell and has an outer surface. A recess is formed in the outer surface of the side wall and is at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess rear wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall. A vent is disposed in the recess and at least one port is formed in the recess rear wall, and the at least one port provides fluid communication with the interior. A retainer is coupled to the side wall and has a portion disposed opposite to the recess rear wall so that the retainer covers the front of the at least one port. The retainer is configured to fix a component to the shell of the cleaning device.

[0006] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a ventilation device for a cleaning device includes a recess formed in a housing of the cleaning device. The housing defines an interior. The recess is at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess rear wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall. A vent is disposed in the recess and at least one port is formed in the recess rear wall to provide fluid communication with the interior. A retainer is coupled to the housing and has a portion disposed opposite to the recess rear wall so that the retainer covers the front of the at least one port. The retainer is configured to fix the components for the cleaning device to the housing. An inlet is disposed below the recess and extends into the recess at an oblique angle.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning device includes a base and a housing having a side wall, and the side wall is operably connected to the base. The side wall defines the interior of the housing and has an outer surface. A recess is formed in the outer surface of the side wall and is at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess rear wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall. A vent is provided in the recess and at least one port is formed in the recess rear wall to provide fluid communication with the interior. A cord winder is coupled to the side wall and covers the front of the at least one port. The cord winder is configured to fix a power cord for the cleaning device to the housing.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning device includes a base and a housing having a side wall, the side wall being operably connected to the base. The side wall defines the interior of the housing and has an outer surface. A recess extends into the outer surface of the side wall and is at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess rear wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall. A vent is disposed in the recess and at least one port is formed in the recess rear wall to provide fluid communication with the interior. A cable winder is coupled to the side wall and has a portion disposed opposite to the recess rear wall so that the cable winder covers the front of the at least one port. The cable winder includes a panel covering the vent. The cable winder also includes: a lower end, the lower end is spaced apart from the side wall and is disposed below the at least one port; and an upper end, the upper end extends from the panel and engages with the side wall above the vent to limit liquid from entering the recess above the vent.

[0009] These and other features, advantages and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art with reference to the following description, claims and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] In the attached picture:

[0011] Figure 1 is a side perspective view of a portable cleaning device having an exemplary ventilation arrangement according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 According to one aspect of the present disclosure Figure 1 A side perspective view of a portable cleaning device with cables, hoses and accessory tools removed;

[0013] Figure 3 is an exterior perspective view of an exemplary ventilation device with the cord winder removed;

[0014] Figure 4 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the interior of an exemplary ventilation device;

[0015] Figure 5 It was taken along line VV Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of a holder and side wall of a portable cleaning device;

[0016] Figure 6 is an external perspective view of a cross-section of a retainer and a second exemplary ventilator according to another aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0017] Figure 7 It is taken along line VII-VII Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portable cleaning device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The presently illustrated embodiment consists primarily of a combination of method steps and apparatus components associated with a ventilation device for cleaning equipment. Therefore, apparatus components and method steps have been indicated, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the accompanying drawings, and only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure are shown so as not to obscure the present disclosure by details that are readily apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. In addition, the same reference numerals in the specification and the accompanying drawings represent the same elements.

[0019] For the purpose of the description herein, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and their derivatives shall refer to the above. Figure 1 Unless otherwise indicated, the term "front" shall refer to the surface closest to the intended viewer, and the term "rear" shall refer to the surface farthest from the intended viewer. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may adopt various alternative orientations unless expressly stated to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific structures and processes shown in the drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Therefore, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0020] The terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises..." does not, without more constraints, preclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes the element.

[0021] refer to Figures 1 to 7, reference numeral 10 generally indicates a cleaning device including a base 12 and a housing 14. The housing 14 includes a sidewall 16 operably coupled to the base 12. The sidewall 16 defines an interior 18 of the housing 14 and has an exterior surface 20. The cleaning device 10 includes a recess 22 ( Figure 3 ). The recess 22 is at least partially defined by a recess top wall 24, a recess bottom wall 26, and a recess rear wall 28 extending between the recess top wall 24 and the recess bottom wall 26. A vent 30 is disposed in the recess 22 and defines at least one port 32 in the recess rear wall 28 that provides fluid communication with the interior 18 of the housing 14. A retainer 34 is coupled to the side wall 16 opposite the recess rear wall 28 such that the retainer 34 covers a front face of the port 32. The retainer 34 is configured to secure the component 36 with the housing 14 of the cleaning device 10.

[0022] refer to Figure 1 , the cleaning device 10 is shown in the form of a portable deep cleaner (PDC) having a handle 37 and a supply tank 38 and a recovery tank 40. Although a portable deep cleaner is shown, it should be understood that the features set forth herein may also be applied to an upright deep cleaner (UDC) or other cleaning device. The supply tank 38 supplies cleaning fluid used by the cleaning device 10, while the recovery tank 40 stores the cleaning fluid recovered from the surface to be cleaned. Both the supply tank 38 and the recovery tank 40 are configured to be detachable from the cleaning device 10. The supply tank 38 can be removed so that the supply tank 38 can be refilled with cleaning fluid, while the recovery tank 40 can be removed so that the recovered cleaning fluid and debris removed from the surface to be cleaned in the recovery tank 40 can be emptied.

[0023] Reference again Figure 1 The accessory hose 42 is operably coupled to the cleaning device 10 and is coupled to a vacuum assembly 43 ( Figure 7 ) fluid communication. The vacuum assembly 43 may include mechanical and electrical components 44 ( Figure 7 ), which may include a motorized fan unit for evacuating the vacuum. The mechanical and electrical components 44 are configured to draw fluid (such as air and / or liquid) from the surface to be cleaned into the recovery tank 40. The mechanical and electrical components 44 of the cleaning device 10 are also configured to dispense a cleaning fluid from the supply tank 38. The cleaning fluid may be water, a cleaning solution, or a combination thereof. In addition, a heater may be used to heat the cleaning fluid before dispensing the cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned.

[0024] Still refer to Figure 1The accessory hose 42 can be wrapped around the cleaning device 10 when not in use or in a storage position, or unwound when in use. The accessory hose 42 is configured to be coupled to an accessory tool 46 designed to dispense cleaning fluid and remove cleaning fluid from the surface to be cleaned. Figure 1 As shown, the clip 48 is configured to connect both the accessory hose 42 and the accessory tool 46 to the cleaning device 10. The accessory tool 46 can include any of a plurality of cleaning features, including a brush, a roller, a suction nozzle, an extraction tool, and any other various cleaning devices configured to distribute cleaning fluid and extract cleaning fluid. It is also contemplated that an agitator can be provided to agitate the surface to be cleaned. The agitator can include polymer bristles, strips, a top, a brush, a needle, or other various protrusions to help agitate the surface to be cleaned. In addition, a rubber scraper or other device for moving liquid can also be provided on the accessory tool 46. The above-listed devices help remove pet hair and other debris from upholstery, carpets, and any other surface to be cleaned (whether hard or soft).

[0025] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning device 10 supports a component 36. In the illustrated construction, the component 36 is in the form of a power cord 36 that is operably coupled to the cleaning device 10 to provide power to the cleaning device 10 from a remote power source (e.g., a wall outlet). Figure 1 and 2 A retainer 34 (shown as a cord winder 34) is operably coupled to the side wall 16 and is configured to support a power cord 36. The power cord 36 extends through an aperture 49 disposed on the housing 14 of the cleaning device 10. The vent 30 is disposed behind the retainer 34 near the recess 22 for drawing air into the interior of the cleaning device 10 to cool the mechanical and electrical components 44 within the cleaning device 10. By configuring the retainer 34 in a position covering the recess 22, the possibility of external liquid entering the vent 30 can be minimized or eliminated. Although a consistent flow of air should be supplied to the mechanical and electrical components 44 within the cleaning device 10, it is undesirable that liquid comes into contact with the internal mechanical or electrical components of the cleaning device 10.

[0026] As described above, and for purposes of this disclosure, it should be understood that the holder 34 is in the form of a cord winder and the component 36 is in the form of a power cord. However, it should be understood that the holder 34 can take the form of various other structures that are generally configured to conceal the vent 30 on the cleaning device 10. Similarly, the component 36 can also include alternative configurations. For example, the ventilation device (including the vent 30) described herein can be set behind the clip 48 on the side wall 16 of the cleaning device 10, and the clip is configured to support the accessory hose 42 and the accessory tool 46. It is contemplated that the holder 34 can include any mounting seat, protrusion, recess, or structural feature configured to couple the component 36 to the housing 14 of the cleaning device 10 while still at least partially concealing the vent 30. In addition, although the holder 34 is shown as an important part of the housing 14, it should be understood that the recess 22 can be located at other locations on the housing 14. In general, the holder 34 and the recess 22 can be located at any position on the housing 14 that allows the component 36 to be fixed to the housing 14 while also allowing proper ventilation of the cleaning device 10. By arranging the ventilation device of the cleaning device 10 behind the cord winder 34, more space can be provided at other locations along the side wall 16 of the housing 14 to attach various other components. Therefore, while maintaining ventilation of the cleaning device 10, the space availability is improved.

[0027] Reference now Figures 2 to 4, the cord winder 34 includes a panel 50 having a generally elongated shape spanning the recess 22. The panel 50 is configured to be as long as or longer than the length L of the recess 22 between the first lateral end 52 of the recess 22 and the second lateral end 54 of the recess 22, and also covers all or part of the port 32. The panel 50 includes a first flange 56 extending near the supply tank 38 and a second flange 58 extending near the recovery tank 40. The panel 50 is fixed to the housing 14 and is adjacent to the housing 14, the supply tank 38, and the recovery tank 40. It is also conceivable that the side wall 16 of the cleaning device 10 may or may not be flush with the supply tank 38 and the recovery tank 40. Therefore, the panel 50 may be recessed in a portion of the side wall, the first flange 56 may be recessed in a portion of the supply tank 38, and the second flange 58 may be recessed in a portion of the recovery tank 40. The cord winder 34 also includes a first protrusion 60 and a second protrusion 62 extending away from the panel 50 and a first protrusion 64 and a second protrusion 66 respectively disposed at the distal end of each of the first protrusion 60 and the second protrusion 62. The first protrusion 64 and the second protrusion 66 are configured to hold the power cord 36 in a wrapped configuration around the first protrusion 60 and the second protrusion 62 of the cord winder 34. It is contemplated that the first protrusion 64 and the second protrusion 66 may be rotatable to facilitate easy unwinding of the power cord 36 from the first protrusion 60 and the second protrusion 62 of the cord winder 34. The cord winder 34 is positioned on the housing 14 so that the cord winder 34 covers the vent 30, which allows the cord winder 34 to act as a splash guard to minimize or prevent liquid from entering the vent 30. Although liquid is largely restricted from entering the interior 18 of the cleaning device 10, the vent 30 is still able to draw air into the interior 18 below the cord winder 34.

[0028] Reference now Figure 3 , the illustrated construction shows the cord winder 34 removed from the housing 14 to expose the vent 30 of the cleaning device 10. As shown, the port 32 is provided through the housing 14. The port 32 may be a single integral port or may be divided into multiple ports. The cord winder 34 is attached to the housing 14 by a first fastener 70 and a second fastener 72, which connect the cord winder 34 to the side wall 16 of the housing 14. As shown in FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the first fastener 70 and the second fastener 72 can be fastened in the first threaded socket 74 and the second threaded socket 76 respectively disposed inside the first protrusion 60 and the second protrusion 62 of the cable winder 34. Although shown as screw strap fasteners, the first fastener 70 and the second fastener 72 can also be in the form of bolts, rivets, adhesives or any other coupling features designed to hold the cable winder 34 connected to the side wall 16 of the housing 14.

[0029] Reference again Figure 3 , the port 32 is defined by a peripheral flange 78 that extends away from the side wall 16 around the periphery 80 of the port 32. The peripheral flange 78 includes an upper wall 82 and an opposing lower wall 84. The peripheral flange 78 includes a notch 86 in the lower wall 84 that can be used to enhance airflow between the external environment and the interior 18 of the cleaning device 10. Thus, the notch 86 causes the upper wall 82 to extend further from the side wall 16 than the lower wall 84 extends from the side wall 16.

[0030] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As clearly shown, the cable winder 34 covers the recess 22 to restrict liquid from entering the recess 22 and allow air to enter the recess 22. The cable winder 34 engages the sidewall 16 above the recess 22 and on both sides of the recess 22, while leaving the bottom of the recess 22 open. In addition, the cable winder 34 includes an upper engagement wall 88 extending from the panel 50 and engaging the sidewall 16. The upper engagement wall is used to block or otherwise prevent liquid that might otherwise enter the port 32 from above. The panel 50 can be substantially planar and can extend generally parallel to the sidewall 16. The upper engagement wall 88 includes a cutout 90 configured to be inserted into a receiving cavity 92 disposed above the recess 22. The cutout 90 defines a lip 96 that serves as an additional mechanism for directing liquid away from entering the vent 30. The lower engagement wall 94 of the cable winder 34 extends away from the panel 50 toward the sidewall 16. The lower engagement wall 94 is spaced apart from the sidewall 16 and disposed below the port 32.

[0031] Reference now Figure 5 , the lip 96 extends at a first oblique angle α relative to the recess top wall 24 to guide the liquid away from the port 32 via gravity. It is contemplated that the first oblique angle α is in a range greater than 0° and less than 90°. However, in other cases, the first oblique angle α can be in a range of 1° to 10°, and in other cases between 0° and 5°. In addition, the geometric characteristics of the housing 14 can further or alternatively restrict liquid from entering the vent 30 while allowing air to pass through the vent 30. Specifically, as Figure 5As shown, the upper wall 82 of the peripheral flange 78 extends with a second oblique angle β relative to the recess top wall 24, and moves away from the interior 18 via gravity. It is generally conceivable that the liquid introduced into this area will fall on the recess top wall 24 and the upper wall 82 of the peripheral flange 78 away from the lip 96, and then the upper wall guides the liquid away from the vent 30. The upper wall 82 includes an edge 98 overhanging the front of the port 32. The second oblique angle β of the upper wall 82 is shown as an angle protruding downward, so that the upper wall 82 tapers from the recess rear wall 28 toward the lower wall 84. The second oblique angle β of the upper wall 82 is configured to guide the liquid entering the recess 22 away from the vent 30 to the edge 98 of the upper wall 82, which is used as a drip edge. This is because the upper wall 82 extends farther from the recess rear wall 28 than the lower wall 84. Therefore, the liquid is restricted from falling into the lower wall 84 and entering the interior 18 of the cleaning device 10. The second bevel angle β may be in the range of greater than 0° to less than 90° in some cases, and in the range of 1° to 10° in other cases. In other cases, the second bevel angle β is greater than 0° and less than 5°.

[0032] Reference now Figure 4 and 5 , the side wall 16 also includes an inclined inlet wall 102 extending below the recess 22. The height of the inclined inlet wall 102 can enhance the airflow entering the vent 30. It is generally contemplated that the height of the inclined inlet wall 102 can be between 10% and 50% of the vertical height of the recess 22. The bevel angle γ is defined by the inclination angle of the inclined inlet wall 102 relative to the side wall 16. A lateral gap 104 is formed between the panel 50 and the side wall 16, and the lateral gap is larger at the top of the inclined inlet wall 102 than at the bottom of the inclined inlet wall 102. Specifically, the first distance D1 formed at the top of the inclined inlet wall 102 can be greater than the second distance D2 formed by the lateral gap 104 at the bottom of the inclined inlet wall 102. The third bevel angle γ can be in a range of greater than 0° to less than 90° in some cases, between 1° and 10° in other cases, and between 0° and 5° in yet other cases. The first distance D1 is controlled so that the lower engagement wall 94 of the winder 34 does not allow a direct line of sight through the port 32. This configuration can prevent splashes of liquids (such as water, cleaning fluids, or other fluids) from directly entering the interior 18 of the cleaning device 10 and contacting the internal mechanical and electrical components 44 of the cleaning device 10. The recess bottom wall 26 can also be configured to prevent direct line of sight through the port 32. Thus, if Figure 5 As shown by the arrow S in FIG. 1 , any splash of fluid or liquid will not directly reach the interior of the device.

[0033] Generally, by widening the space between the cord winder 34 and the housing 14 below the recess 22, an increased volumetric flow rate of external cooling air can be provided, thereby maximizing the air entering the vent 30. The increased airflow can enhance the cooling of mechanical and electrical components 44, such as the vacuum assembly 43 disposed within the cleaning device 10. Thus, the combination of the sloped inlet wall 102 and the overlap of the cord winder 34 increases the air flow into the cleaning device 10 while preventing or minimizing the infiltration of liquid into the interior 18 of the cleaning device 10.

[0034] Reference now Figure 6 , another ventilation device is provided, which includes the above-mentioned Figures 1 to 5 It should be understood that unless otherwise stated, aspects of this configuration will be similar or identical to the aspects outlined above. Figure 6 As described, the cleaning device 100 includes a holder 134 supporting a member 136. The holder 134 includes a panel 150, which hides a vent 130 for cooling mechanical and electrical components within the cleaning device 100. The vent 130 is typically disposed between an upper vent wall 124 and a lower vent wall 126. A rear vent wall 128 extends between the upper vent wall 124 and the lower vent wall 126. The panel 150 includes an upper wall 182, an intermediate wall 184, and a lower recess 186, which extend inwardly away from the panel 150 toward a recess 122 defined by the side walls 116 of the housing 114. The upper wall 182 is in abutment contact with the side walls 116, and the intermediate wall 184 extends into the recess 122. An inlet wall 202 is defined near the lower recess 186. Air guide assembly 204 is arranged inside recess 122 and comprises a plurality of guides 203, and the plurality of guides protrude from rear ventilation wall 128 and form an L shape and guide air from inlet wall 202 to the interior 118 of cleaning device 100. Guide 203 is arranged between adjacent ports 132. The downwardly directed orientation of guide 203 guides fluid (particularly liquid) downward away from vent 130, while still allowing air outside vent 130 to enter the interior 118 of cleaning device 100. As shown, guide 203 protrudes laterally and extends in a downward direction toward distal end 205. This configuration helps to protect internal components from the influence of liquid that may pass between sidewall 116 and upper wall 182 and / or between sidewall 116 and intermediate wall 184.

[0035] It is worth noting that in Figure 6In the illustrated configuration, the sidewall 116 does not taper, and thus the inlet wall 202 is substantially parallel to the panel 150, which results in a substantially constant width between the sidewall 116 and the panel 150. This configuration of the inlet wall 202 is configured to restrict liquid from entering the recess 122 from below the vent 130 without substantially reducing airflow into the vent 130. Although the inlet wall 202 has a substantially constant width relative to the sidewall 116, it is contemplated that the inlet wall 202 may be of a substantially constant width relative to the sidewall 116. Figures 1 to 5 The inclined inlet wall 102 of the ventilator tapers in a similar manner.

[0036] Reference now Figure 7 , the ventilation device shown is used to illustrate the air circulation path through the interior 18 when the mechanical and electrical components 44 are powered. The air flow path includes a cooling path along the direction of arrow AD and a suction path along the direction of arrow E. The cooling path AD provides air sucked into the interior 18 to pass through the mechanical and electrical components 44 to cool these components, while the suction path E generates a suction force at the accessory tool 46. The mechanical and electrical components 44 may include a motorized fan assembly 220, which has a suction motor 222, an impeller assembly 224 operably coupled to the suction motor 222, and a cooling fan 226 operably coupled to the suction motor 222. The suction motor 222 is connected to the cooling fan 226 and the impeller assembly 224 via a central shaft 228. Air from the external environment is sucked along the cooling path AD, passes through the mechanical and electrical components 44, and flows out through the outlet 109 on the housing 14. For example, when the suction motor 222 rotates the cooling fan 226 , the cooling fan 226 draws air through the port 32 to cool the suction motor 222 .

[0037] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 7 , the vents 30 or 130 are configured to allow air to be drawn into the cleaning device 10, which is eventually discharged at the outlet 109. As further disclosed in detail herein, air enters the machine compartment of the cleaning device 10, is heated by the mechanical and electrical components 44 within the cleaning device 10, and is eventually discharged at the outlet 109. Specifically, the air is drawn into the air channel A above the internal mechanical and electrical components 44 of the cleaning device 10. The air is drawn into contact with the mechanical and electrical components 44 at the air path B, then passes through the mechanical and electrical components 44 at the air path C and is discharged through the outlet 109 at the air path D. It is worth noting that the air is also drawn into the air intake duct 206 upward through the lower portion of the cleaning device 10 along the path E and discharged through the bottom of the cleaning device 10. The continuous air flow through the device results in cooling of the interior 18 of the cleaning device 10, which enables the cleaning device 10 to have better performance and minimizes potential damage to the cleaning device 10.

[0038] The devices disclosed herein are further summarized in the following paragraphs, and may also be characterized by any and all combinations of the various aspects described herein.

[0039] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning device comprises a base and a shell having a side wall, and the side wall is operably connected to the base. The side wall defines the interior of the shell and has an outer surface. A recess is formed in the outer surface of the side wall and is at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess rear wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall. A vent is disposed in the recess and at least one port is formed in the recess rear wall, and the at least one port provides fluid communication with the interior. A retainer is coupled to the side wall and has a portion disposed opposite to the recess rear wall so that the retainer covers the front of the at least one port. The retainer is configured to fix a component to the shell of the cleaning device.

[0040] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the retainer is spaced apart from the at least one port and covers an entire front face of the at least one port.

[0041] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning device includes an inlet defined by an outer surface below a recess and extending into the recess at an oblique angle.

[0042] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one port is defined by a peripheral flange having an upper wall extending from a rear wall of the recess and an opposing lower wall.

[0043] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the upper wall extends further from the recess rear wall than the lower wall.

[0044] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the upper wall extends at an oblique angle relative to the recess rear wall and includes an edge depending forward of the at least one port.

[0045] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the upper wall tapers from the outer surface toward the lower wall.

[0046] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the holder includes a panel extending across the length of the recess from a first lateral end of the recess to a second lateral end of the recess to cover a front face of at least one port.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the panel includes a lower end spaced apart from the side wall, wherein the lower end is disposed below the at least one port.

[0048] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the retainer includes an upper end extending from the panel and engaging the sidewall above the vent to restrict liquid from entering the recess from above the vent.

[0049] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one port is a single unitary port.

[0050] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one port includes a plurality of ports, and the cleaning device further includes a guide interposed between a pair of ports among the plurality of ports.

[0051] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the guide extends substantially perpendicularly relative to the recess rear wall.

[0052] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the guide extends downwardly at a distal end of the guide.

[0053] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the guide is formed in an L-shape.

[0054] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a ventilation device for a cleaning device includes a recess formed in a housing of the cleaning device. The housing defines an interior. The recess is at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess rear wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall. A vent is disposed in the recess and at least one port is formed in the recess rear wall to provide fluid communication with the interior. A retainer is coupled to the housing and has a portion disposed opposite to the recess rear wall so that the retainer covers the front of the at least one port. The retainer is configured to fix the components for the cleaning device to the housing. An inlet is disposed below the recess and extends into the recess at an oblique angle.

[0055] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the holder includes a panel extending across the recess from a first lateral end of the recess to a second lateral end of the recess to cover a front face of at least one port.

[0056] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the panel includes a lower end spaced apart from the housing, wherein the lower end is disposed below the at least one port.

[0057] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the retainer includes an upper end extending from the panel and engaging the housing above the vent to restrict liquid from entering the recess from above the vent.

[0058] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning device comprises a base and a housing having a sidewall, the sidewall being operably connected to the base. The sidewall defines the interior of the housing and has an outer surface. A recess is formed in the outer surface of the sidewall and is at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess rear wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall. A vent is disposed in the recess and at least one port is formed in the recess rear wall to provide fluid communication with the interior. A cord winder is coupled to the sidewall and covers the front of the at least one port. The cord winder is configured to fix a power cord for the cleaning device to the housing.

[0059] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cable tidy includes a panel extending across the recess from a first lateral end of the recess to a second lateral end of the recess to cover a front face of at least one port.

[0060] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cable spool includes a first protrusion aligned with a first lateral end of a recess and a second protrusion aligned with a second lateral end of the recess.

[0061] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the cleaning device includes a hole formed in an outer surface. A power cord extends from the hole and is configured to be wrapped around the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

[0062] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning device includes a cooling fan disposed within an inner motor housing and configured to draw air into an interior of the cleaning device through at least one port.

[0063] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the suction motor is operably coupled to a cooling fan to drive the cooling fan to draw air into the interior of the cleaning device through at least one port to cool the suction motor.

[0064] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning device includes at least one fastener disposed in the recess and configured to secure the cord spool with the housing.

[0065] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one fastener includes a first fastener disposed proximate the first lateral end and a second fastener disposed proximate the second lateral end.

[0066] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning device includes a base and a housing having a side wall, the side wall being operably coupled to the base. The side wall defines the interior of the housing and has an outer surface. A recess extends into the outer surface of the side wall and is at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess rear wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall. A vent is disposed in the recess and at least one port is formed in the recess rear wall to provide fluid communication with the interior. A cable winder is coupled to the side wall and has a portion disposed opposite to the recess rear wall so that the cable winder covers the front of the at least one port. The cable winder includes a panel covering the vent. The cable winder also includes: a lower end, the lower end is spaced apart from the side wall and is disposed below the at least one port; and an upper end, the upper end extends from the panel and engages with the side wall above the vent to limit liquid from entering the recess above the vent.

[0067] It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the described disclosure and other components of construction are not limited to any specific materials. Unless otherwise described herein, other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials.

[0068] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms, coupling, coupled, coupled, etc.) generally means the direct or indirect joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) to one another. Such a joining may be fixed in nature or removable in nature. Such a joining may be achieved with two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members may be integrally formed as a single entity with one another or with the two components. Unless otherwise stated, such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature.

[0069] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the present disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments are only illustrative. Although only several embodiments of the present innovation have been described in detail in the present disclosure, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art who examine the present disclosure that many modifications are possible (e.g., changes in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportion of various elements, the value of parameters, the installation arrangement, the use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the narrated subject matter. For example, an element shown as being integrally formed may be composed of multiple parts, or an element shown as being integrally formed, the operation of the interface may be reversed or otherwise changed, the length or width of the structure and / or member or connector or other element of the system may vary, and the nature or number of the adjustment positions provided between the elements may vary. It should be noted that the elements and / or assemblies of the system may be composed of any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability in a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovation. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovation.

[0070] It should be understood that any described process or steps within a described process can be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A cleaning device, comprising: Base; a housing including a sidewall operably coupled to the base, the sidewall defining an interior of the housing and having an exterior surface; a recess formed in the outer surface of the side wall, the recess being at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess rear wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall; a vent disposed in the recess and forming at least one port in the recess rear wall, the at least one port providing fluid communication with the interior; as well as A retainer is coupled to the side wall and has a portion disposed opposite the recess rear wall such that the retainer covers a front face of the at least one port, wherein the retainer is configured to secure a component with the housing. 2 . The cleaning device of claim 1 , wherein the retainer is spaced apart from the at least one port and covers the entire front face of the at least one port.

3. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 or 2, further comprising: An inlet is defined by the outer surface below the recess and extends into the recess at an oblique angle.

4. The cleaning apparatus of claim 3, wherein the at least one port is defined by a peripheral flange having an upper wall extending from the recess rear wall and an opposing lower wall.

5. The cleaning apparatus of claim 4, wherein the upper wall extends further from the recess rear wall than the lower wall.

6. The cleaning apparatus of claim 5, wherein the upper wall extends at an oblique angle relative to the recess rear wall and includes an edge overhanging the front face of the at least one port.

7. The cleaning device of claim 5, wherein the upper wall tapers from the outer surface toward the lower wall.

8. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the holder includes a panel extending across the length of the recess from a first lateral end of the recess to a second lateral end of the recess to cover the front face of the at least one port.

9. The cleaning apparatus of claim 8, wherein the panel includes a lower end spaced apart from the sidewall, and wherein the lower end is disposed below the at least one port.

10. The cleaning apparatus of claim 8, wherein the retainer includes an upper end extending from the panel and engaging the sidewall above the vent to restrict liquid from entering the recess from above the vent.

11. The cleaning device of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the at least one port is a single integral port.

12. The cleaning device of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the at least one port comprises a plurality of ports, and the cleaning device further comprises a guide interposed between a pair of ports among the plurality of ports.

13. A ventilation device for a cleaning device, the ventilation device comprising: a recess formed in a housing of the cleaning device, the housing defining an interior, wherein the recess is at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess rear wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall; a vent disposed in the recess and forming at least one port in the recess rear wall, the at least one port providing fluid communication with the interior; a retainer coupled to the housing and having a portion disposed opposite the recessed rear wall such that the retainer covers a front face of the at least one port, wherein the retainer is configured to secure a component for the cleaning device with the housing; An inlet is disposed below the recess and extends into the recess at an oblique angle.

14. The ventilation device of claim 13, wherein the retainer includes a panel extending across the recess from a first lateral end of the recess to a second lateral end of the recess to cover the front face of the at least one port.

15. The ventilation device of claim 14, wherein the panel includes a lower end spaced apart from the housing, and wherein the lower end is disposed below the at least one port.

16. A ventilating device according to any one of claims 14 or 15, wherein the retainer includes an upper end extending from the panel and engaging the housing above the vent to restrict liquid from entering the recess from above the vent.

17. A cleaning device comprising: Base; a housing including a sidewall operably coupled to the base, the sidewall defining an interior of the housing and having an exterior surface; a recess formed in the outer surface of the side wall, the recess being at least partially defined by a recess top wall, a recess bottom wall, and a recess rear wall extending between the recess top wall and the recess bottom wall; a vent disposed in the recess and forming at least one port in the recess rear wall, the at least one port providing fluid communication with the interior; as well as A cord tuck is coupled to the sidewall, the cord tuck covering a front face of the at least one port, wherein the cord tuck is configured to secure a power cord for the cleaning device with the housing.

18. The cleaning device of claim 17, wherein the cord spool includes a panel extending across the recess from a first lateral end of the recess to a second lateral end of the recess to cover the front face of the at least one port.

19. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 17 or 18, further comprising: A cooling fan is disposed in the inner motor housing and is configured to draw air into the interior of the cleaning device through the at least one port.

20. The cleaning apparatus of claim 19, wherein the suction motor is operably coupled to a cooling fan to drive the cooling fan to draw air into the interior through the at least one port to cool the suction motor.

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