Separator for a fluid cleaning device

Abstract

A separator for a cleaning device, the separator comprising: an inlet for receiving a flow of fluid containing entrained debris into the separator; an outlet for discharging the filtered fluid stream from the separator, the outlet being longitudinally spaced from the inlet; an inlet conduit extending within the interior volume of the separator, the inlet conduit connected to the inlet to receive the fluid flow; an outlet volume connected to the outlet; and a longitudinally extending boundary wall disposed between the inlet conduit and the outlet volume. The boundary wall includes a filter screen configured to retain debris in the inlet conduit while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the inlet conduit to the outlet volume.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a separator and a separation process for a fluid cleaning device. Background Art

[0002] Many fluid cleaning devices implement an initial separation stage, such as a cyclonic separator, to remove the heaviest particles and / or debris from the incoming fluid stream, thereby serving as the first stage in a series of purification stages implemented by the device. In the case of a vacuum cleaning device, a separator can replace a dust bag because the separator can be configured to remove and collect larger particles and debris from the incoming air stream. This produces a partially filtered stream, which can then be further purified by a fine dust separator and optional additional filters such as a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter, so that particles of continuously smaller sizes are removed from the stream to produce a purified output. When the separator is full, it can be removed, emptied and returned to the device.

[0003] Various separator configurations are known, but typically the separator comprises a hollow housing assembly enclosing an interior volume which is divided into two mutually isolated chambers by a separation grid, also referred to as a "shroud" or "screen". The screen acts as a filter, allowing fluids and particles below a certain size to pass between the chambers, while blocking larger particles and debris. Incoming air containing debris is conveyed into the first of these chambers, which is thus an upstream chamber defining an inlet volume which is connected to or surrounds a baghouse volume or "primary baghouse" in which the debris collects. A second, downstream chamber on the opposite side of the screen defines an outlet volume connected to an outlet through which the filtered flow is discharged for conveyance onward within the device for further purification in additional separation stages.

[0004] The separator is configured to remove debris from the incoming air stream using a combination of inertial separation and mechanical separation, the mechanical separation being provided by the mesh. Inertial separation involves diverting the air stream so that entrained debris is carried out of the stream by its own momentum. The separator is configured so that this occurs in an area of ​​the chamber spaced from the mesh so that accumulated debris does not cover the mesh until the main dust collection chamber is nearly full. At the same time, the mesh prevents fibers and other lightweight debris remaining in the stream from passing through the outlet volume.

[0005] In existing devices, debris accumulates on the surface of the mesh during operation and becomes lodged in the mesh, gradually blocking the mesh and thereby increasing the resistance to air flow through the mesh. Blocking the mesh in this way may also be referred to as "mesh clogging", which impedes the performance of the device until the mesh is cleaned. As a result, the separator may have to be cleaned prematurely, before the main dust chamber is full, which increases the level of user maintenance required. Alternatively, a mechanical wiper may be provided to clean the mesh, but such wipers are generally complex and tend to trap debris in the mesh.

[0006] The rate at which the screen becomes clogged is related to the efficiency with which the debris is deposited at the intended accumulation point in the primary baghouse and the nature of the debris being drawn into the separator.

[0007] One way to reduce mesh clogging is to increase the mesh pore size to reduce the likelihood of clogging. However, increasing the pore size inevitably allows larger particles to pass through the mesh, thereby compromising the separation efficiency of the separator, i.e. the proportion of debris captured in the main baghouse.

[0008] Another measure taken is to limit the size of the main dust chamber inlet through which the incoming air is discharged, thereby ensuring that for a given flow rate, the air flow velocity entering the main dust chamber is high. This high flow velocity in the main dust chamber helps to reduce mesh clogging, but at the expense of increased ejection losses in the main dust chamber, thereby increasing the power consumption of the device. In this regard, it is generally desirable to minimize the pressure consumption of the separator.

[0009] WO 2011 / 161591 proposes a separator device configured to reduce mesh clogging by directing the main inlet air flow to the mesh of the separator so that the mesh is kept clean by the air flow during use. However, the mesh is susceptible to damage by large and / or heavy objects that may be entrained in the incoming air flow.

[0010] It is in this context that the present invention is designed. Summary of the invention

[0011] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a separator for a cleaning device. The separator includes: an inlet for receiving a fluid flow containing entrained debris into the separator; an outlet for discharging a filtered fluid flow from the separator, the outlet being longitudinally spaced from the inlet relative to a longitudinal axis of the separator; an inlet conduit extending within an interior volume of the separator, the inlet conduit being connected to the inlet to receive the fluid flow; an outlet volume connected to the outlet; and a longitudinally extending boundary wall disposed between the inlet conduit and the outlet volume. The boundary wall includes a filter screen, the filter screen being configured to retain debris in the inlet conduit while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the inlet conduit to the outlet volume. The inlet conduit and the outlet volume may be enclosed and sealed from one another so that fluid communication occurs only through the filter screen.

[0012] The separator is configured to have a longitudinal boundary wall placed between the inlet duct and the outlet volume, and a longitudinally spaced inlet and outlet, so that the characteristics of the separator can be arranged in a substantially straight line topology. In other words, the inlet, outlet, inlet duct and outlet volume can be arranged to be close to each other. This allows the main flow path of the fluid through the separator to be close to linear, thereby reducing the degree to which the flow must turn between the inlet and outlet, and then reducing the pressure consumption of the separator. The separator can also be configured to reduce the recirculation of the fluid, thereby avoiding some shortcomings associated with the cyclone configuration.

[0013] The filter screen may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the separator.

[0014] The inlet duct may extend longitudinally from the inlet.The inlet duct optionally extends along a central longitudinal axis of the separator such that the central longitudinal axis extends within an envelope of the inlet duct.

[0015] The inlet duct may include a side opening. For example, the inlet duct may include a channel that is open on the side. The side opening may be on the side of the inlet duct opposite the filter screen.

[0016] The separator may include a dust chamber volume connected to the inlet duct, the dust chamber volume being configured to collect debris retained by the filter screen. A side opening of the inlet duct may lead to the dust chamber volume. Optionally, the dust chamber volume at least partially surrounds the inlet duct and / or the outlet volume.

[0017] The outlet volume may include at least one outlet conduit.

[0018] The outlet volume may at least partially surround the inlet conduit, and optionally completely surround the inlet conduit, such that the inlet conduit is nested within the outlet volume.

[0019] In some embodiments, the filter screen extends at least partially around the inlet conduit in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the separator.

[0020] The filter mesh may taper in the longitudinal direction.

[0021] The inlet and outlet may be disposed at opposite longitudinal ends of the separator.

[0022] The inlet conduit may terminate by an end wall of the separator.

[0023] The distal end of the inlet conduit may be closed.

[0024] The separator may include a wiping member configured to move over the filter screen to remove debris adhered to the filter screen. The wiping member may be configured to move parallel to a longitudinal axis of the separator.

[0025] The boundary wall may be defined by a wall of the inlet duct. Alternatively or in addition, the boundary wall may be defined by a wall of the outlet volume, and optionally by a wall surrounding the outlet volume. The wall of the outlet volume may include a recessed portion defining the inlet duct.

[0026] The transverse profile of the inlet duct and / or the outlet volume may be uniform in the longitudinal direction.

[0027] The separator may include a second filter screen extending parallel to the filter screen. The second filter screen may be configured to retain debris (if any) in the dust chamber volume while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the dust chamber volume to the outlet volume. The separator may include a primary flow path extending between an inlet and an outlet through the filter screen, and a secondary flow path extending between the inlet and the outlet through the second filter screen, in which case the separator includes at least one barrier structure located on the secondary flow path to constrain the fluid flow along the secondary flow path relative to the fluid flow along the primary flow path. Therefore, the barrier structure provides a method for controlling how the incoming flow is divided between the primary flow path and the secondary flow path.

[0028] The second flow path provides an alternative route for the fluid to exit the separator, thereby enhancing control of the fluid flow within the separator and optionally reducing fluid recirculation within the separator. Positioning the second filter between the dust chamber volume and the outlet volume affects the fluid flow through the dust chamber volume, promoting efficient deposition of debris.

[0029] The or each filter screen may be curved about the longitudinal axis of the separator.

[0030] A second aspect of the invention provides a cleaning device comprising the separator of the first aspect. For example, the device may be implemented as a household appliance.

[0031] Device is configured to have separator, this separator has the longitudinal boundary wall that is placed between inlet duct and outlet volume, and longitudinally separated inlet and outlet, this makes the feature of separator can be arranged with basic straight line topology.In other words, inlet, outlet, inlet duct and outlet volume can be arranged to be close to align with each other.This allows the main flow path of fluid through separator to approach linearity again, thereby reduces the degree that this flow must turn between inlet and outlet, and then reduces the pressure consumption of separator, and therefore reduces the power consumption of device.Separator can also be configured to be used to reduce the recirculation of fluid, thereby avoids some shortcomings relevant to cyclone configuration.

[0032] A third aspect of the invention provides a method of configuring a separator for a cleaning device. The separator includes an inlet for receiving a fluid flow containing entrained debris into the separator, an outlet for discharging a filtered fluid flow from the separator, the outlet being longitudinally spaced from the inlet, and an outlet volume connected to the outlet. The method includes: connecting an inlet conduit extending within an interior volume of the separator to the inlet to receive the fluid flow; and placing a longitudinally extending boundary wall between the inlet conduit and the outlet volume. The boundary wall includes a filter screen, the filter screen being configured to retain debris in the inlet conduit while allowing the filtered fluid to flow from the inlet conduit to the outlet volume.

[0033] The separator is configured to have a longitudinal boundary wall placed between the inlet duct and the outlet volume, and a longitudinally spaced inlet and outlet, so that the characteristics of the separator can be arranged in a substantially straight line topology. In other words, the inlet, outlet, inlet duct and outlet volume can be arranged to be close to each other. This allows the main flow path of the fluid through the separator to be close to linear, thereby reducing the degree to which the flow must turn between the inlet and outlet, and then reducing the pressure consumption of the separator. The separator can also be configured to reduce the recirculation of the fluid, thereby avoiding some shortcomings associated with the cyclone configuration.

[0034] In a fourth aspect, a separator for a cleaning device is described herein. The separator includes: an inlet volume connected to an inlet of the separator for receiving a fluid flow containing entrained debris into the separator; a dust chamber volume connected to the inlet volume, the dust chamber volume configured to collect debris separated from the fluid flow; an outlet volume connected to the separator for discharging a filtered fluid flow from the separator; a first filter screen extending between the inlet volume and the outlet volume, the first filter screen configured to retain debris in the inlet volume while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the inlet volume to the outlet volume; and a second filter screen extending between the dust chamber volume and the outlet volume, the second filter screen configured to retain debris in the dust chamber volume while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the dust chamber volume to the outlet volume. The inlet volume and the outlet volume can be closed and sealed to each other so that fluid communication occurs only through the filter screen.

[0035] Configuring the separator to have first and second filter screens protecting respective inlets of the outlet volume provides multiple routes between the inlet and outlet. This in turn enhances control of fluid flow within the separator and increases the extent to which fluid recirculation within the separator can be reduced, thereby avoiding some of the disadvantages associated with cyclonic configurations. Positioning the second filter screen between the dust chamber volume and the outlet volume affects fluid flow through the dust chamber volume, promoting efficient deposition of debris.

[0036] The first filter screen and the second filter screen may be parallel to each other.

[0037] The first filter screen and / or the second filter screen may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the separator.

[0038] The separator may include a wiping member configured to move over the first filter screen to remove debris attached to the first filter screen. The wiping member may be configured to move over the first and second filter screens simultaneously to remove debris attached to the first and second filter screens. For example, the wiping member may include a continuous wiping edge having a portion that engages the first filter screen and another portion that engages the second filter screen during use. The wiping member is optionally configured to move parallel to the longitudinal axis of the separator. The wiping member may be supported by an end wall of the separator.

[0039] The first and second filter screens may be fixed relative to the housing of the separator, and the wiping member may be configured to move relative to the housing. Alternatively, the wiping member may be fixed relative to the housing of the separator, and the first and second filter screens may be configured to move relative to the housing. In a further alternative, the wiping member and the first and second filter screens may be configured to move relative to the housing or another structure of the separator.

[0040] In some embodiments, the wiping member includes a wiping edge forming a closed loop, the wiping edge engaging the first filter screen and the second filter screen in operation.

[0041] The wiper member may be configured for actuation externally of the separator.

[0042] The inlet volume may include at least one inlet conduit connected to the inlet to receive the fluid flow, in which case the first filter screen extends between the inlet conduit and the outlet volume to retain debris in the inlet conduit while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the inlet conduit to the outlet volume. The inlet conduit may extend parallel to the first filter screen. The first filter screen may form a portion of a longitudinally extending boundary wall disposed between the inlet conduit and the outlet volume. The wall of the inlet conduit may include a boundary wall. The inlet conduit may extend along a central longitudinal axis of the separator so that the central longitudinal axis extends within the envelope of the inlet conduit.

[0043] The inlet duct may include a side opening. For example, the inlet duct may include a channel that is open on the side. The side opening may be on the side of the inlet duct opposite the filter screen.

[0044] The outlet volume may include at least one outlet conduit.

[0045] The separator may include a primary flow path extending between an inlet and an outlet through a first filter screen, and a secondary flow path extending between an inlet and an outlet through a second filter screen. The separator may include at least one barrier structure located on the secondary flow path to constrain the fluid flow along the secondary flow path relative to the fluid flow along the primary flow path. The barrier structure thus provides a method for controlling how the incoming flow is split between the primary flow path and the secondary flow path.

[0046] The first filter screen and / or the second filter screen may be curved around the longitudinal axis of the separator.

[0047] The second filter screen can form a part of the longitudinally extending boundary wall placed between the dust chamber volume and the outlet volume. The outlet can be longitudinally separated from the inlet relative to the longitudinal axis of the separator. The separator is configured to have a longitudinal boundary wall placed between the inlet duct and the outlet volume, and a longitudinally separated inlet and outlet, so that the characteristics of the separator can be arranged in a basic straight line topology. In other words, the inlet, outlet, inlet duct and outlet volume can be arranged to be close to align with each other. This allows the main flow path of the fluid through the separator to be close to linear, thereby reducing the degree to which the flow must turn between the inlet and outlet, and then reducing the pressure consumption of the separator. The separator can also be configured to reduce the recirculation of the fluid, thereby avoiding some disadvantages associated with the cyclone configuration.

[0048] In a fifth aspect, a cleaning device is described herein comprising the separator of the fourth aspect. For example, the device may be implemented as a household appliance.

[0049] Arranging the device with a separator having first and second filter screens protecting respective inlets of an outlet volume provides multiple routes between the inlet and outlet. This in turn enhances control of fluid flow within the separator and increases the extent to which fluid recirculation within the separator can be reduced, thereby avoiding some of the disadvantages associated with cyclonic arrangements. Positioning the second filter screen between the dust chamber volume and the outlet volume influences fluid flow through the dust chamber volume, promoting efficient deposition of debris.

[0050] A sixth aspect described herein provides a method for configuring a separator for a cleaning device. The separator includes an inlet volume connected to an inlet of the separator for receiving a fluid flow containing entrained debris into the separator; a dust chamber volume connected to the inlet volume, the dust chamber volume configured to collect debris separated from the fluid flow; and an outlet volume connected to the separator for discharging a filtered fluid flow from the separator. The method includes: positioning a first filter screen between the inlet volume and the outlet volume, the first filter screen configured to retain debris in the inlet volume while allowing the filtered fluid to flow from the inlet volume to the outlet volume; and positioning a second filter screen between the dust chamber volume and the outlet volume, the second filter screen configured to retain debris in the dust chamber volume while allowing the filtered fluid to flow from the dust chamber volume to the outlet volume.

[0051] Configuring the separator to have first and second filter screens protecting respective inlets of the outlet volume provides multiple routes between the inlet and outlet. This in turn enhances control of fluid flow within the separator and increases the extent to which fluid recirculation within the separator can be reduced, thereby avoiding some of the disadvantages associated with cyclonic configurations. Positioning the second filter screen between the dust chamber volume and the outlet volume influences fluid flow through the dust chamber volume, promoting efficient deposition of debris.

[0052] Features described above in conjunction with the first aspect of the invention are equally applicable to the second, third, fourth, fifth and / or sixth aspects, and vice versa. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] Figure 1 shows a rear view of a separator for a fluid cleaning device;

[0054] Figure 2 Corresponds to Figure 1 , but showing a separator with the wiper element concealed;

[0055] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 A top longitudinal cross-sectional view of a separator;

[0056] Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 A side longitudinal sectional view of a separator;

[0057] Figure 5 Corresponds to Figure 4 , but shows the air movement within the separator;

[0058] Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 A front perspective view of a separator;

[0059] Figure 7 Corresponds to Figure 6 , but showing a partial cross-sectional view;

[0060] Figure 8 Corresponds to Figure 6 , but showing a longitudinal cross-section of the separator;

[0061] Fig. 9 Shows Figure 1 A rear perspective view of a separator;

[0062] Fig.10 Corresponds to Fig. 9 , but showing a partial cross-sectional view;

[0063] Fig.11 Corresponds to Fig. 9 , but showing a longitudinal cross-section of the separator;

[0064] Figures 12a to 12c Shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the internal components of a separator, wherein the wiper assembly is in three stages of wiping motion;

[0065] Fig.13a and 13b Corresponding to Figure 12b and 12c , but showing a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of the separator;

[0066] Fig.14a and 14b Corresponding to Fig.13a and 13b , but showing a separator configured for an alternative wiping motion;

[0067] Fig.15a and 15b Corresponding to Fig.14a and 14b , but showing a rear perspective view of the separator; and

[0068] Fig.16a and 16b Corresponding to Fig.14a and 14b , but showing a front perspective view of the separator. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0069] Figures 1 to 11 An example of a separator 10 for use in a fluid cleaning device is shown and generally described below. In general, the separator 10 is configured for reduced net clogging and low pressure consumption relative to known arrangements. In this example, the separator 10 is configured for use in a household vacuum cleaning appliance, but it should be understood that other examples of such separators are suitable for a range of cleaning devices.

[0070] Unlike conventional, the separator 10 of this example is not configured as a cyclonic separator, but is configured to guide the airflow to reduce recirculation by creating multiple fluid outlet routes, each of which is protected by a corresponding net. This allows the separator to avoid some disadvantages associated with cyclonic configurations, including the tendency of the circulating flow to entangle elongated debris such as hair and fibers around internal components, and the constraints on the shape of the main dust collection chamber due to the need to generate the required cyclonic flow. However, it should be noted that in other examples, the separator can be configured with a single net protecting a single outlet, in which case the separator is configured for limited recirculation.

[0071] In general, the separator 10 of this example is configured to have a straight topology, wherein the inlet, outlet and mesh all extend substantially parallel to a common axis, in this case the central axis of the separator 10. This allows for a compact and aesthetically pleasing layout, and also simplifies the flow path by reducing the extent to which the fluid must turn between the inlet and outlet, thereby reducing pressure consumption. However, the straight topology may be optional.

[0072] Additionally, having the primary screen parallel to the incoming air flow direction through the inlet helps reduce screen clogging because the air flow continuously aerodynamically washes the screen during operation.

[0073] At the same time, a mechanical wiper is provided which, by virtue of this linear topology, is able to clean both webs simultaneously in a single linear motion, thereby reducing complexity and facilitating maintenance. Mechanical wipers are favored for their ease of implementation and perceived reliability, although in other examples, an aerodynamic wiping arrangement may be employed where space permits.

[0074] like Figure 1 As shown, the separator 10 includes a housing 12 defined by a tubular wall of circular cross-section surrounding a central axis 14 to enclose a cylindrical interior volume 16. The central axis 14 also defines a central longitudinal axis of the separator 10.

[0075] Note that various alternative shapes of housings may be used in other examples, including, for example, a cubic housing. The separator 10 provides greater flexibility in this regard than a cyclonic separator which relies on the shape of the housing to achieve the desired throughflow.

[0076] The separator 10 is configured for use with its central axis 14 generally oriented at about 45° such that opposing longitudinal ends of the housing 12 define upper and lower ends of the housing 12, respectively. Figure 3 The upper end of the housing 12 is shown to be closed by an upper end wall 18, and correspondingly, the lower end of the housing 12 is closed by a lower end wall 20, the upper end wall 18 and the lower end wall 20 being shown as planar, mutually parallel disks.

[0077] The upper and lower end walls 18 , 20 and the outer shell 12 together define a housing of the separator 10 , which encloses the interior volume 16 .

[0078] Although not shown in the figures for simplicity, the lower end wall 20 may be removable from the housing 12 to allow the interior volume 16 to be emptied, and may be connected to the housing 12 by, for example, a hinge.

[0079] Also, in this example, the upper end wall 18 is configured to move relative to the housing 12 within the interior volume 16 to act as a mechanical wiper for cleaning the mesh of the separator 10, as described below.

[0080] exist Figure 3 Also visible is a tube defining an inlet 22 extending through a central opening in the lower end wall 20 to project into the interior volume 16 of the separator 10. The inlet 22 is generally tubular and has an axis parallel to the central axis 14 of the separator 10. In use, the outer portion of the inlet 22 outside the separator 10 is connected to a duct within the device through which a flow of air to be filtered is pumped into the separator 10. Figure 4 The upper side of the inlet 22 is shown recessed radially inwardly to create a lip 23 which acts as a flow guide as will become clear from the following description.

[0081] Accordingly, the upper end wall 18 includes an outlet opening that receives an outlet 24 of the housing of the separator 10. The outlet 24 defines an outlet axis that is parallel to and close to the central axis 14 of the separator 10. When the separator 10 is used in an apparatus, the outlet 24 discharges the filtered stream from the separator 10, and the filtered stream is delivered to an additional purification stage within the apparatus through a suitable connection. For example, the outlet 24 can deliver the stream to a cyclone separator group used as a second separation stage.

[0082] Thus, the inlet 22 and outlet 24 of the separator 10 are disposed at opposite longitudinal ends of the housing 12. The inlet 22 and outlet 24 are only radially offset from one another to a small extent, so that the degree to which the air flow must be diverted between the inlet 22 and outlet 24 is correspondingly small. Positioning the outlet 24 near the central axis 14 also advantageously generally aligns it more closely with downstream features of the device, such as a cone. Thus, the separator 10 is configured to minimize the overall change in the flow direction of the air conveyed through the device, thereby reducing pressure consumption.

[0083] Back to Figure 1 The conduit device 26 is accommodated in the internal volume 16 of the housing 12, and the cross-section of the conduit device 26 is generally U-shaped, such as Figure 1 More specifically, the conduit device 26 includes a conduit wall 28, which is Figure 1 The duct wall 28 extends in a closed loop in the transverse plane shown to enclose a volume surrounded by and substantially fluidically isolated from the remainder of the interior volume 16. The volume enclosed by the duct wall 28 is connected to the outlet 24, thus defining an outlet volume or outlet chamber 30. Correspondingly, the portion of the interior volume 16 outside the duct wall 28 defines an inlet volume.

[0084] The conduit wall 28 is formed by Figure 1 The majority of the transverse profile of the duct wall 28 is generally circular and centered on the central axis 14, thus following the profile of the housing 12 with a substantially constant radial offset. Figure 1 As shown, the upper region of the wall 28 is radially recessed inwardly to form an open-sided passage 32 extending longitudinally along the exterior of the conduit wall 28. In this regard, the conduit wall 28 deviates from its circular profile at mirrored locations on either side of the radial line L, curving sharply inwardly toward the central axis 14. After the initial sharp bend, the conduit wall 28 has a pair of mutually parallel, substantially straight portions on either side of the radial line L, which are connected by a semicircular portion centered on and extending below the central axis 14. Thus, the passage 32 has planar sides connected by a partially tubular base. The cross-section of the passage 32 is substantially uniform in the longitudinal direction, and the passage 32 contains and extends along the central longitudinal axis 14.

[0085] The open-sided passage 32 defines an inlet duct 32 which is connected to the inlet 22 and thus receives an incoming air flow containing entrained debris. Figure 3 The respective ends of the inlet conduit 32 and the inlet 22 are shown to have matching profiles and abut one another such that the inlet 22 is substantially continuous with the inlet conduit 32 .

[0086] The remainder of the inlet volume, outside the inlet duct 32, defines a dust chamber volume 34 that serves as a dust container, in which debris removed from the incoming air is collected. Thus, in this example, the inlet volume is constituted by the inlet duct 32 and the dust chamber volume 34. Thus, the duct wall 28 separates the dust chamber volume 34 from the outlet chamber 30.

[0087] Figure 4 The portion of the duct wall 28 defining the inlet duct 32 that engages the inlet 22 is shown to be recessed longitudinally inwardly relative to the remainder of the duct wall 28 that engages the inner surface of the lower end wall 20. Thus, the duct wall 28 and the inlet 22 cooperate to close and seal the end of the outlet chamber 30 around the inlet 22 from the inlet volume using a suitable seal at the interface.

[0088] Figure 1 Also shown is a U-shaped wall within outlet chamber 30, which is at a substantially constant offset from the portion of duct wall 28 defining inlet duct 32. A curved wall extends between the ends of the U-shaped wall to form a continuous crescent-shaped wall defining barrier 33. Figure 3 The wall of the barrier 33 is shown to have a uniform width for an upper portion of the barrier 33 and then tapers to converge longitudinally at a lower portion of the barrier 33 .

[0089] The barrier 33 closes off a portion of the space within the outlet chamber 30, which defines a cavity 31 which may not be used or may be used, for example, as a fine dust collector. At the same time, the remaining portion of the outlet chamber between the barrier 33 and the duct wall 28 defines a longitudinally extending outlet duct 35 which is open at its upper end. As the walls of the barrier 33 converge at their lower portion, the outlet duct 35 is Figure 3 The orientation shown widens longitudinally upwards.

[0090] like Figure 4 As shown, the barrier 33 terminates approximately two-thirds of the way toward the lower end wall 20, and the space inside the barrier 33 is enclosed by a planar transversely extending wall. The wall is spaced from another parallel wall of the duct means 26 within the outlet chamber 30 to define a radial passage 37 between the walls, which provides fluid communication between the outlet duct 35 and the radially outer region of the barrier 33 of the outlet chamber 30.

[0091] Figure 3The duct wall 28 is shown extending longitudinally through the outlet opening in the upper end wall 18 so that the terminal upper end of the duct wall 28 protrudes beyond the exterior of the upper end wall 18. As can be seen, the upper end of the outlet duct 35 extends from the housing, thereby defining the outlet 24 of the separator 10.

[0092] The outlet opening in the upper end wall 18 is shaped to match the contour of the conduit wall 28, but is sized to create a small gap around the exterior of the conduit wall 28. A resilient wiper member or wiper element 36 extends through the gap at an oblique angle to engage the exterior surface of the conduit wall 28. The wiper element 36 may be made, for example, of a durable, compliant material, such as silicone. The wiper element 36 is supported by an inwardly inclined lip 38 formed around the outlet opening in the upper end wall 18 and is secured to the upper end wall 18 by a clamping element 40 attached to the exterior of the upper end wall 18 to keep the outer edge of the wiper element 36 captured.

[0093] The upper end wall 18, the wiper element 36 and the clamping element 40 together form a wiper assembly 41, the operation of which will be described later with reference to Figures 12 to 16.

[0094] The wiper element 36 is Figure 1 It can be seen that Figure 1 2 shows how the element 36 is shaped to conform to the contour of the conduit wall 28. Also, for clarity, Figure 2 The separator 10 is shown with the wiper element 36 concealed.

[0095] The wiper element 36 forms a seal around the outer surface of the conduit wall 28. At the same time, the peripheral edge of the upper end wall 18 forms a seal to the housing. Thus, the inlet volume is sealed at one end by the wiper assembly 41 and at the other end by the upper end wall 18. The wiper element 36 is also arranged to mechanically remove debris from the web of the conduit device 26, as described in more detail later.

[0096] In this regard, the duct arrangement 26 includes a pair of screens that act as filters to control the flow of air from the inlet duct 32 and the dust collection volume 34 into the outlet chamber 30 to prevent debris of a certain size from entering the outlet chamber 30 .

[0097] Specifically, Figure 3 As best shown, the main mesh 42 is disposed within the inlet duct 32 and largely defines the curved portion of the inlet duct 32. Thus, the main mesh 42 is radially opposed to the side opening of the inlet duct 32 relative to the central axis 14. At the same time, Figure 4 and 10 A secondary mesh 44 is shown positioned rearwardly of the conduit wall 28 and aligned at an angle to the primary mesh 42 such that respective circumferential midpoints of the primary mesh 42 and the secondary mesh 44 may intersect a common radial line.

[0098] The main net 42 is used to filter the air flowing directly from the inlet duct 32 into the outlet chamber 30. Figure 4 As best shown, the main net 42 extends from a location longitudinally inboard of the inlet 22 (e.g., approximately one-quarter of the length of the inlet conduit 32 spaced from the inlet 22) to a point a short distance from the distal end of the inlet conduit 32. The main net 42 thus extends along approximately two-thirds of the length of the inlet conduit 32. The main net 42 and the outlet conduit 35 are of substantially the same length, such that the outlet conduit 35 extends alongside the main net 42 along its length on opposite sides of the inlet conduit 32.

[0099] The secondary net 44 extends along the inlet duct 32 in similar proportions to the primary net 42, but is offset relative to the primary net 42 toward the inlet 22. More specifically, the secondary net 44 extends from the connection between the barrier 33 and the duct wall 28 to a point slightly inside the lower end wall 20. Fig.10 The secondary mesh 44 is shown extending circumferentially around the catheter wall 28 for approximately one quarter of the circumference and having a uniform circumferential width. The secondary mesh 44 is thus partially tubular in shape.

[0100] In this example, each of the primary mesh 42 and the secondary mesh 44 extends parallel to the central axis 14 and are therefore also parallel to each other.

[0101] It can be concluded from the above that, in this example, the curved portions of the secondary net 44 and the primary net 42 each have a substantially constant radius of curvature centered on the central axis 14. In addition, each of the primary net 42 and the secondary net 44 is about Figure 1 The radial line L in FIG. 4 is symmetrical about the common plane. However, it should be noted that in other examples, the shapes and relative positions of the webs 42 , 44 may be different.

[0102] Figure 4 and Figure 8 It is also disclosed that the main net 42 tapers longitudinally, which in this example is linear. At its widest point, at the end closest to the inlet 22, the main net 42 extends around the entire curved portion of the inlet duct 32 and also intrudes in some way into the planar sides of the inlet duct 32. In contrast, at its longitudinally opposite end, the main net 42 is at its narrowest point and does not reach the planar sides of the inlet duct 32. As will become clearer from the following description, the taper of the main net 42 compensates for the slowing down of the air flowing through the inlet duct 32 parallel to the net 42, thus helping to keep the net 42 free of debris. The taper of the net 42 also reduces the clogging of the net 42 by optimizing the air flowing over the net 42.

[0103] Each of the primary and secondary meshes 42, 44 covers or is embedded in a corresponding hole in the duct wall 28. Each mesh 42, 44 is shaped to conform to the outer surface of the duct wall 28 in which it is installed to maintain a smooth outer contour of the duct wall 28, thereby minimizing the effect of the meshes 42, 44 on the aerodynamics in the inlet volume. Therefore, each mesh 42, 44 can be considered to define a corresponding portion of the duct wall 28.

[0104] The primary screen 42 and the secondary screen 44 thus form a portion of the duct wall 28, which in turn defines a boundary wall extending longitudinally between the inlet volume and the outlet chamber 30 to separate the inlet volume and the outlet chamber 30. Thus, the boundary wall is defined by a portion of the duct wall 28 disposed between the inlet volume and the outlet chamber 30. Thus, air entering the inlet volume through the inlet 22 must pass through one of the screens 42, 44 to reach the outlet chamber 30, the outlet duct 35, and the outlet 24. The screens 42, 44 prevent particles of a certain size from entering the outlet chamber 30, causing these particles to accumulate in the dust collection chamber volume 34.

[0105] In this regard, each mesh 42, 44 is a porous mesh configured to act as a filter, and may have a pore size, for example, in the range of 100-500 microns. The holes may have various shapes, including, for example, circular, elliptical, or polygonal holes. When rectangular holes are used, the rectangular holes may be oriented perpendicular to the incoming flow direction, particularly for the main mesh 42. The profile of the leading edge of the hole relative to the direction of the incoming air flow may affect the separation performance of the main mesh 42.

[0106] The curved profile of the webs 42, 44 generally enhances separation performance relative to an equivalent planar web.

[0107] Each mesh 42, 44 can be formed of plastic or metal, and its holes are chemically etched or electroformed. Each mesh 42, 44 can be mounted to a corresponding opening in the conduit wall 28 in any suitable manner. One or both meshes 42, 44 can also be integrally formed with the conduit wall 28.

[0108] Having described the structure of the separator 10 , before proceeding to describe the operation of the wiper assembly 41 , consideration will now be given to the air flow within the separator 10 during operation.

[0109] In operation, suction is generated by the vacuum motor of the device. The motor is arranged downstream of the outlet 24 of the separator 10, so that due to the pressure difference between the inlet 22 and the outlet 24, the motor applies suction to the outlet 24 to generate air flow through the separator 10.

[0110] Figure 51 illustrates air flow generated within separator 10, showing inlet air flow being drawn from inlet 22 into inlet duct 32. Since inlet 22, inlet duct 32 and main grid 42 are all parallel to central axis 14, inlet air flow is generally parallel to main grid 42 and therefore flows through main grid 42. Figure 5 Also shown is a lip 23 of the inlet 22 for use along Figure 5 The orientation shown directs the inlet air flow slightly downward into the inlet duct 32 and toward the main grid 42 .

[0111] Since the pressure of the outlet chamber 30 is lower than that of the inlet conduit 32, a portion of the inlet flow deviates from its initial trajectory and is directly drawn into the outlet conduit 35 through the main mesh 42, and is discharged through the outlet 24. This portion of the inlet flow drawn through the main mesh 42 defines the main flow.

[0112] The remainder of the flow that does not pass through the primary screen 42 defines a secondary flow that continues toward the distal end of the inlet duct 32 and then turns to flow out of the inlet duct 32 through the open side of the inlet duct 32 and into the dust collection chamber volume 34. Although not visible in the figure, a ramp, lip or other aerodynamic structure may be provided at the distal end of the inlet duct 32 to guide the secondary flow through an initial turn when it reaches the upper end wall 18.

[0113] The secondary flow carries entrained debris present in the original inlet flow, which is blocked by the primary screen 42 from entering the outlet chamber 30 with the primary flow. In addition, the momentum of the debris serves to keep the debris in a straight path parallel to the primary screen 42, since the debris cannot turn as quickly as the air joining the primary flow. This helps to force the debris into the secondary flow and thus prevents the debris from passing through or attaching to the primary screen 42.

[0114] After the end of the inlet duct 32 is turned, the secondary flow is drawn circumferentially around the dust chamber volume 34 toward the secondary net 44, which is also connected to the low-pressure outlet volume 30. The geometry of the dust chamber volume 34 and the size, shape and position of the secondary net 44 are used to pull the secondary flow in all directions, causing the flow to diffuse and disperse while changing direction. This in turn removes larger and / or heavier debris from the flow by inertial separation, and these particles are carried out of the flow by their relatively high momentum and deposited in the dust chamber volume 34. Smaller and / or lighter debris such as fluff and fibers also accumulate in the dust chamber 34. In turn, the accumulated fluff and fibers can help capture dust that is subsequently transported to the dust chamber 34 through the secondary flow. When the secondary flow reaches the secondary net 44, any particles that exceed a threshold size remaining in the secondary flow are captured by the secondary net 44.

[0115] Therefore, only air and particles smaller than the holes of the primary and secondary nets 42, 44 can pass through any one of the nets 42, 44 to flow into the outlet chamber 30 and continue to flow toward the outlet 24. As described above, when the separator 10 is used in a cleaning device, some of the finer particles that do pass through the nets 42, 44 are subsequently removed from the flow by a secondary separation stage (e.g., a cyclone separator) and captured in a fine dust collector, for example, by a cone tip. The device can incorporate a further filter, such as a HEPA filter, downstream of the outlet 24 to provide a further level of purification.

[0116] Figure 4 It is also shown that the main flow entering the outlet chamber 30 through the main screen 42 flows directly into the outlet duct 35, thereby reaching the outlet 24 relatively unimpeded. In contrast, the main flow entering the outlet chamber 30 through the secondary screen 44 must pass through a series of features that form a more converging flow path to the outlet 24. Specifically, the secondary screen 44 extends within the outlet chamber 30 over a portion of the duct wall 28 covering the space around the barrier 33. Therefore, the air passing through the secondary screen 44 must first bypass the barrier 33 to the radial channel 37, and then pass through the radial channel 37 and the converging opening into the outlet duct 35 to rejoin with the main flow and form the outlet flow discharged from the outlet 24.

[0117] Since fluids tend to follow the path of least resistance, the extent to which the primary and secondary flows are resisted relative to each other determines the division of the initial inlet flow. If it is desired that the primary flow comprise a larger portion of the inlet flow, the resistance to the secondary flow may be increased, for example by changing the geometry of the barrier 33. Conversely, reducing the resistance to the secondary flow has the effect of increasing the portion of the inlet flow that joins the secondary flow, thereby increasing the volume flow of the secondary flow relative to the primary flow.

[0118] In this example, the resistance to the secondary flow is determined by the geometry of the barrier 33 and the radial passage 37. However, in other examples, the secondary flow may be restricted in other ways, such as using tubes or holes of appropriate diameter and an appropriate number of holes.

[0119] In this example, the separator 10 is configured so that 10-20% of the inlet air flow joins the secondary flow, so that the primary flow contains 80-90% of the inlet flow. This means that most of the air flowing through the separator 10 has a relatively simple flow path, because the straight-line topology of the separator 10 places the inlet 22 and outlet 24 in close alignment with each other. This in turn reduces the pressure consumption of the separator 10.

[0120] The ratio of primary and secondary flows also partially determines the efficiency with which dust is separated and retained in the inlet volume, including the separation of particles of a size capable of passing through the primary screen 42 .

[0121] The flow conditions created within separator 10 provide various benefits.

[0122] For example, aesthetically, configuring the inlet duct 32 and the primary screen 42 so that air flows through and is substantially parallel to the screen 42, and ensuring that a portion of this air flow—i.e., the side flow—travels the length of the primary screen 42 before continuing into the dust chamber volume 34, provides a continuous stream of air flowing through the primary screen 42. This continuous stream acts as a protective curtain, preventing debris from reaching the primary screen 42, and aerodynamically clearing the primary screen 42 while the device is operating, thereby reducing clogging of the primary screen 42. In this regard, the flow through the screen 42 creates high shear stresses between the air flow and the particles, which creates an aerodynamic scrubbing effect that captures particles from the surface of the screen 42.

[0123] Although the direction of the inlet air flow may not be exactly parallel to the main web 42, for example within 10° of the web tangent, advantageously the air flow is generally not directed at any part of the web 42, so that any larger particles entrained in the inlet air flow that might threaten to damage the web 42 are not carried into the web 42.

[0124] Another benefit of the separator 10 is that because the main screen 42 is kept clear by continuous cleaning, the diameter of the inlet 22 can be made larger. Therefore, for a given flow rate, the velocity of the inlet flow is lower than in existing designs. This reduced velocity in turn reduces the ejection losses inside the separator 10, which is typically one of the main losses in a separator, thereby providing a significant improvement in the overall efficiency of the device. Similarly, the device can achieve the same efficiency as known arrangements while consuming less power.

[0125] Relative to known arrangements that use larger apertures to reduce clogging, using the inlet air flow to continuously clean the main mesh 42 can allow the aperture of the mesh 42 to be reduced. Reducing the aperture in turn improves the separation efficiency of the separator 10. In contrast, in the separator 10 of this example, the shape of the aperture is more important to the separation performance, particularly the profile of the leading edge of the aperture relative to the flow direction of the incoming air flow. In this regard, for example, a laser cut aperture with straight edges and sharp corners may not be as effective as an electroformed aperture with a more curved profile facing the flow.

[0126] Furthermore, the U-shaped configuration of the duct arrangement 26 protects the primary net 42 from debris moving in the dust chamber volume 34, as the primary net 42 is nested within and thus shielded by the duct wall 28. This further reduces net clogging and reduces the risk of damage to the primary net 42.

[0127] At the same time, the use of a double screen allows the separator 10 to be configured without recirculation flow and associated disadvantages. In addition to the above-mentioned problems, such as entanglement of hair and fibers due to cyclonic flow, existing cyclonic separators are generally configured to turn and accelerate the inlet flow as it enters the separator, which creates a vulnerability to large debris blocking the inlet. More generally, the straight-line topology of the separator 10 of this example, and the removal of geometric constraints applied to cyclonic separators, allows for a more compact configuration with less wasted space than a cyclonic separator.

[0128] The double net arrangement and the U-shaped configuration of the duct device 26 also allow the mainstream to be isolated from the dust accumulation area, that is, the dust collection chamber volume 34, which minimizes the impact of accumulated dust on the air flow. It can be seen that the pressure consumption of the separator 10 is not greatly affected by the filling of the dust collection chamber volume 34.

[0129] Turning finally to the operation of the wiper assembly 41, Figures 12a to 13b A first arrangement is shown in which the catheter device 26 is fixed relative to the housing 12 and the wiper assembly 41 is configured to move axially relative to the catheter device 26 . Figures 12a to 12c The wiper assembly 41 is shown in successive stages of downward movement defining a cleaning stroke, Fig.13a and 13b The side longitudinal cross-sectional views of the corresponding movement phases are shown. As can be clearly seen from these figures, the wiper assembly 41 moves linearly parallel to the central axis 14 while maintaining a constant orientation relative to the catheter device 26 and the housing 12. Thus, the wiper assembly 41 moves in the housing 12 in the manner of a plunger.

[0130] As the wiper assembly 41 undergoes a cleaning stroke, the wiper element 36 slides along the exterior of the pipe wall 28, and the resiliency of the wiper element 36 presses the outer edge of the element 36 into firm engagement with the surface of the pipe wall 28. As the wiper element 36 passes through the primary net 42 and the secondary net 44, for example, Figure 12b and 13a In the stage shown, any debris that has accumulated on the webs 42 , 44 is mechanically removed by the wiper elements 36 and conveyed towards the lower end wall 20 .

[0131] Because the wiper element 41 is shaped to conform to the contour of the duct wall 28, the contact between the wiper element 41 and the duct wall 28 establishes a continuous, gap-free cleaning interface around the duct wall 28 and the webs 42, 44. Because the cross-section of the duct wall 28 is longitudinally consistent, the cleaning interface is maintained throughout the cleaning stroke. This ensures that no gaps occur between the wiper element 36 and the duct 28, which would otherwise allow debris to be trapped between the wiper element 36 and the duct wall 28 and / or one of the webs 42, 44.

[0132] Once the cleaning stroke is complete, debris removed from the webs 42, 44 is deposited at the lower end of the housing and the wiper assembly 41 may be retracted to its normal position at the top of the housing 12 in a return stroke.

[0133] The movement of the wiper assembly 41 in the cleaning and return strokes may be caused and controlled by an external actuation mechanism (not shown), which may be housed with the device above the separator 10, for example. The separator 10 may also be configured to operate the wiper assembly 41 manually.

[0134] As described above, the wiper element 36 and the periphery of the upper end wall 18 cooperate to seal the dust chamber volume 34 and the inlet conduit 32, thereby isolating the inlet volume from components of the actuation mechanism by containing debris within the inlet volume and thereby protecting the actuation mechanism from dust ingress to improve reliability.

[0135] A cleaning stroke may be performed when the separator 10 is detached from the device, in which case the lower end wall 20 may be opened or removed, leaving the separator 10 open. This advantageously allows the expelled debris to be emptied along with the accumulated debris held in the dust chamber volume 34. Alternatively, the expelled debris may be added to the debris already contained in the dust chamber volume 34 to be removed during a subsequent emptying process.

[0136] The wiper assembly 41 may also be operated when the separator 10 is docked in the device so that the net wiping and dust chamber emptying procedures may be performed independently. In this case, the expelled debris will be added to the accumulated debris in the dust chamber volume 34 for later emptying. For example, the nets 42, 44 may be automatically wiped each time the device is started. Although the debris expelled from the main net 42 may fall into the inlet 22, when the device is next operated, the debris will be removed and blown to the dust chamber volume 34. The inlet 22 may also include a valve to prevent debris from falling into the inlet 22 from the inlet volume.

[0137] Figures 14a to 16b Similar stages of movement are shown for an alternative configuration in which the wiper assembly 41 is fixed relative to the housing 12 and the conduit device 26 moves relative to the housing 12 and the wiper assembly 41. This provides the required relative movement between the nets 42, 44 and the wiper element 36. For the first arrangement shown in Figures 12 and 13, as the wiper element 36 slides over the nets 42, 44, debris attached to the primary net 42 and the secondary net 44 is dislodged and retained in the inlet volume to be emptied along with the debris accumulated in the dust chamber volume 34. Figures 14a to 16b The examples shown are otherwise similar to Figure 1 to 1 Same as example 3.

[0138] In either of the above approaches, relative movement between the wiper assembly 41 and the webs 42 , 44 occurs along an axis parallel to the central axis 14 , resulting in a relatively simple arrangement that operates reliably and robustly in the dusty environment inside the separator 10 .

[0139] It should be understood that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the application.

[0140] For example, the inlet duct may have a variety of other shapes, including a box-shaped duct having a square or rectangular cross-section and flat sides. The inlet duct may also not have a continuous open side as in the above examples, but may have one or more discrete outlets, allowing the side stream to enter the dust chamber volume from the inlet duct.

[0141] Accordingly, the duct wall may not be U-shaped or symmetrical as in the above examples, but may take various other forms. The duct wall may be oriented in any direction relative to the housing and / or the shell. The housing and / or the shell may be of any shape. In this regard, in an embodiment, the separation function of the separator does not rely heavily on the shape of the housing and its walls for managing the air flow as in some known separators.

[0142] The conduit wall may not be parallel to the primary web, the secondary web, or either. Similarly, the primary web and the secondary web may not be parallel to each other.

[0143] The continuous conduit wall of the above-described embodiments may alternatively be formed from multiple parts. Similarly, the primary and / or secondary meshes may be formed from an assembly of separate components.

[0144] Various embodiments are described above in which the conduit device is stationary and the wiper element is moving during the web wiping operation, and in which the wiper element is stationary and the conduit device is moving. The separator can also be configured so that during the wiping operation, both the conduit device and the wiper element move relative to the housing or another structure.

[0145] In some embodiments, the secondary network and associated piping may be omitted so that the separator operates only with the primary network.

[0146] This article also describes separators according to the following numbered clauses:

[0147] 1. A separator for a cleaning device, the separator comprising:

[0148] an inlet volume connected to an inlet of the separator for receiving a fluid flow containing entrained debris into the separator;

[0149] a dust collection volume connected to the inlet volume, the dust collection volume configured to collect debris separated from the fluid flow;

[0150] an outlet volume connected to an outlet of the separator for discharging a filtered fluid stream from the separator;

[0151] a first filter screen extending between the inlet volume and the outlet volume, the first filter screen configured to retain debris in the inlet volume while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the inlet volume to the outlet volume; and

[0152] A second filter screen extends between the dirt collection volume and the outlet volume, the second filter screen being configured to retain debris in the dirt collection volume while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the dirt collection volume to the outlet volume.

[0153] 2. The separator according to clause 1, wherein the first filter screen and the second filter screen are parallel to each other.

[0154] 3. The separator according to clause 1 or 2, wherein the first filter screen and / or the second filter screen extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the separator.

[0155] 4. A separator according to any preceding clause, comprising a wiping member configured to move over the first filter screen to remove debris adhered to the first filter screen.

[0156] 5. The separator according to clause 4, wherein the wiping member is configured to move simultaneously over the first and second filter screens to remove debris attached to the first and second filter screens.

[0157] 6. A separator according to clause 4 or 5, wherein the wiping member is configured to move parallel to a longitudinal axis of the separator.

[0158] 7. A separator according to any of clauses 4 to 6, wherein the wiping member is supported by an end wall of the separator.

[0159] 8. A separator according to any one of clauses 4 to 7, wherein the first and second filter screens are fixed relative to a housing of the separator, and the wiping member is configured to move relative to the housing.

[0160] 9. A separator according to any one of clauses 4 to 7, wherein the wiping member is fixed relative to a housing of the separator, and the first and second filter screens are configured to move relative to the housing.

[0161] 10. A separator according to any one of clauses 4 to 9, wherein the wiping member comprises a wiping edge forming a closed loop, the wiping edge engaging the first filter screen and the second filter screen in operation.

[0162] 11. A separator according to any of clauses 4 to 10, wherein the wiper member is configured for actuation externally of the separator.

[0163] 12. A separator according to any preceding clause, wherein the inlet volume comprises at least one inlet conduit connected to the inlet to receive a fluid flow, and wherein a first filter screen extends between the inlet conduit and the outlet volume to retain debris in the inlet conduit while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the inlet conduit to the outlet volume.

[0164] 13. The separator according to clause 12, wherein the inlet duct extends parallel to the first filter screen.

[0165] 14. A separator according to clause 12 or 13, wherein the first filter screen forms part of a longitudinally extending boundary wall disposed between the inlet duct and the outlet volume.

[0166] 15. The separator according to clause 14, wherein the wall of the inlet duct comprises a boundary wall.

[0167] 16. A separator according to any of clauses 12 to 15, wherein the inlet duct extends along a central longitudinal axis of the separator.

[0168] 17. A separator according to any of clauses 12 to 16, wherein the inlet duct comprises a side opening.

[0169] 18. A separator according to clause 17, wherein the inlet duct comprises a laterally open channel.

[0170] 19. A separator according to clause 17 or 18, wherein the side opening is located on a side of the inlet duct opposite to the first filter screen.

[0171] 20. A separator according to any preceding clause, wherein the outlet volume comprises at least one outlet conduit.

[0172] 21. A separator according to any of the preceding clauses, comprising a main flow path extending between an inlet and an outlet through a first filter screen, and a secondary flow path extending between an inlet and an outlet through a second filter screen, wherein the separator comprises at least one barrier structure located on the secondary flow path to constrain the fluid flow along the secondary flow path relative to the fluid flow along the main flow path.

[0173] 22. A separator according to any preceding clause, wherein the first filter screen and / or the second filter screen is curved around a longitudinal axis of the separator.

[0174] 23. A separator according to any preceding clause, wherein the second filter screen forms part of a longitudinally extending boundary wall disposed between the dust chamber volume and the outlet volume.

[0175] 24. A cleaning device comprising a separator as claimed in any preceding clause.

[0176] 25. The device according to clause 24, which is embodied as a household appliance.

[0177] 26. A method of configuring a separator for a cleaning device, the separator comprising an inlet volume connected to an inlet of the separator for receiving a fluid flow containing entrained debris into the separator; a dust chamber volume connected to the inlet volume, the dust chamber volume configured to collect debris separated from the fluid flow; and an outlet volume connected to an outlet of the separator for discharging a filtered fluid flow from the separator; the method comprising:

[0178] positioning a first filter screen between the inlet volume and the outlet volume, the first filter screen configured to retain debris in the inlet volume while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the inlet volume to the outlet volume; and

[0179] A second filter screen is positioned between the dirt collection volume and the outlet volume, the second filter screen being configured to retain debris in the dirt collection volume while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the dirt collection volume to the outlet volume.

Claims

1. A separator for a cleaning device, the separator comprising: an inlet for receiving a fluid stream containing entrained debris into the separator; an outlet for discharging the filtered fluid stream from the separator, the outlet being longitudinally spaced from the inlet; an inlet conduit extending within the interior volume of the separator, the inlet conduit connected to the inlet to receive the fluid flow; the outlet volume connected to the outlet; as well as A longitudinally extending boundary wall is disposed between the inlet conduit and the outlet volume, the boundary wall including a filter screen configured to retain debris in the inlet conduit while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the inlet conduit to the outlet volume.

2. The separator according to claim 1, wherein: The filter screen extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the separator.

3. The separator according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The inlet conduit extends longitudinally from the inlet.

4. The separator according to claim 3, wherein: The inlet conduit extends along a central longitudinal axis of the separator.

5. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein: The inlet conduit includes a side opening.

6. The separator according to claim 5, wherein: The inlet conduit includes a laterally open passage.

7. The separator according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: The side opening is located on a side of the inlet duct opposite to the filter screen.

8. A separator according to any preceding claim, comprising a hopper volume connected to the inlet duct, the hopper volume being configured to collect debris retained by the filter screen.

9. A separator according to claim 8 when dependent on claim 5, wherein: A side opening of the inlet duct leads to the dust collection chamber volume.

10. The separator according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The dust chamber volume at least partially surrounds the inlet duct and / or the outlet volume.

11. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein: The outlet volume includes at least one outlet conduit.

12. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein The outlet volume at least partially surrounds the inlet conduit.

13. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein: The filter screen extends at least partially around the inlet conduit in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the separator.

14. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein: The filter screen gradually becomes thinner in the longitudinal direction.

15. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein The inlet and outlet are disposed at opposite longitudinal ends of the separator.

16. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein The inlet conduit is terminated by an end wall of the separator.

17. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein: The distal end of the inlet conduit is closed.

18. A separator according to any preceding claim, comprising a wiping member arranged to move over the filter screen to remove debris adhering to the filter screen.

19. The separator according to claim 18, wherein The wiper member is configured to move parallel to a longitudinal axis of the separator.

20. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein The boundary wall is defined by a wall of the inlet duct.

21. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein The boundary wall is defined by a wall of the outlet volume.

22. The separator according to claim 21, wherein The wall of the outlet volume includes a recessed portion defining the inlet conduit.

23. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein The transverse profile of the inlet duct and / or the outlet volume is uniform in the longitudinal direction.

24. A separator according to any preceding claim, comprising a second filter screen extending parallel to the filter screen.

25. A separator according to claim 24 when dependent on claim 8, wherein The second filter screen is configured to retain debris in the dirt collection volume while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the dirt collection volume to the outlet volume.

26. The separator of claim 25, comprising a primary flow path extending through the filter screen between the inlet and the outlet, and a secondary flow path extending through the second filter screen between the inlet and the outlet, wherein: The separator includes at least one barrier configuration located on the secondary flow path to restrict fluid flow along the secondary flow path relative to fluid flow along the primary flow path.

27. A separator according to any preceding claim, wherein The filter screen is curved about a longitudinal axis of the separator.

28. A cleaning apparatus comprising a separator according to any preceding claim.

29. The device according to claim 28, which is embodied as a household appliance.

30. A method of configuring a separator for use in a cleaning device, the separator comprising an inlet for receiving a fluid flow containing entrained debris into the separator; an outlet for discharging the filtered fluid stream from the separator, the outlet being longitudinally spaced from the inlet; and an outlet volume connected to the outlet, the method comprising: connecting an inlet conduit extending within the interior volume of the separator to the inlet to receive the fluid flow; and A longitudinally extending boundary wall is positioned between the inlet conduit and the outlet volume, the boundary wall comprising a filter screen configured to retain debris in the inlet conduit while allowing filtered fluid to flow from the inlet conduit to the outlet volume.

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