Surface cleaning device with odor management

Abstract

A surface cleaning device includes a nozzle and an odor dial assembly. The nozzle includes a nozzle housing and a dirty air passage. The scent dial assembly includes a fragrance component and a dial body configured to be removably coupled to the nozzle housing. The dial body at least partially defines a fragrance cavity configured to at least partially receive the fragrance component and a fragrance passage extending therethrough. The scent dial assembly is configured to transition between a plurality of user selectable positions to adjust an amount of scent particles released by the scent component into the dirty air passage.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a continuation of U.S. application No. 17 / 843,692, filed on June 17, 2022, entitled “SURFACE CLEANING DEVICE WITH ODOR MANAGEMENT,” and U.S. application No. 17 / 846,829, filed on June 22, 2022, entitled “SURFACE CLEANING DEVICE WITH ODOR MANAGEMENT,” the entire texts of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present description relates generally to surface cleaning devices and, more particularly, to odor management during operation of surface cleaning devices. Background Art

[0004] The following is not an admission that anything discussed below is part of the prior art or part of the common general knowledge of a person skilled in the art.

[0005] An electric surface cleaning device such as a vacuum cleaner has multiple components, each of which receives power from one or more power sources (e.g., one or more batteries or mains power). For example, a vacuum cleaner may include a suction motor for generating a vacuum within a cleaning head. The generated vacuum collects debris from the surface to be cleaned and deposits the debris in, for example, a debris collector. The vacuum cleaner may also include a motor to rotate a brush roller within the cleaning head. The rotation of the brush roller agitates the debris that has adhered to the surface to be cleaned so that the generated vacuum can remove the debris from the surface. In addition to the electrical components for cleaning, the vacuum cleaner may include one or more light sources to illuminate the area to be cleaned. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] These and other features and advantages will be better understood from a reading of the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0007] The accompanying drawings are included for the purpose of illustrating various examples of the articles, methods, and apparatuses taught in this specification and are not intended to limit the scope of the teachings in any way.

[0008] Figure 1A An example surface cleaning apparatus consistent with aspects of the present disclosure is presented.

[0009] Figure 1B Demonstrating aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1A Top view of equipment for surface cleaning.

[0010] Figure 1C exhibit Figure 1B An enlarged section of a surface cleaning device.

[0011] Figure 1D Showing the DD intercepted along the line Figure 1A Cross-sectional view of a surface cleaning device.

[0012] Figure 1E Showing the intercepts along Route EE Figure 1B Cross-sectional view of a surface cleaning device.

[0013] Figure 1F Demonstrating aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1A A perspective view of a surface cleaning apparatus.

[0014] Figure 1G exhibit Figure 1F An enlarged section of the surface cleaning apparatus shown in FIG.

[0015] Figure 1H exhibit Figure 1F Another enlarged section of the surface cleaning device shown in FIG.

[0016] Fig. 1I exhibit Figure 1F Another enlarged section of the surface cleaning device shown in FIG.

[0017] Figure 1J exhibit Figure 1F Another enlarged section of the surface cleaning device shown in FIG.

[0018] Figure 2A Shown is a partially exploded view of an odor control assembly consistent with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 2B Show separately Figure 2A Top view of a tray of odor control assembly pieces.

[0020] Figure 2C exhibit Figure 2B Bottom view of the tray.

[0021] Figure 2D Show separately Figure 2A Top view of the adjustment components of the odor control assembly.

[0022] Figure 2E exhibit Figure 2D A perspective view of the adjustment components.

[0023] Figure 2F exhibit Figure 2D Bottom view of the adjustment component.

[0024] Figure 2G exhibit Figure 2D Another perspective view of the adjustment component of .

[0025] Figure 2H Show separately Figure 2A A perspective view of a cam of an odor control assembly.

[0026] Fig.2I exhibit Figure 2H Another perspective view of the cam.

[0027] Figure 2J Show separately Figure 2A A perspective view of a fragrance component of an odor control assembly.

[0028] Figure 2K Showing the KK intercepted along the line Figure 2J A cross-sectional view of a fragrance component.

[0029] Figure 2L Shows the intercept along LL Figure 2J A cross-sectional view of a fragrance component.

[0030] Figure 3A Another example surface cleaning apparatus consistent with aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0031] Figure 3B Show suitable for Figure 3A Adjustment components used in surface cleaning devices.

[0032] Figure 4A Another example surface cleaning apparatus consistent with aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0033] Figure 4B exhibit Figure 4A An enlarged section of a surface cleaning device.

[0034] Figure 5A Another example of a surface cleaning device including an odor control assembly consistent with the present disclosure is shown.

[0035] Figure 5B exhibit Figure 5A An enlarged section of an odor control assembly.

[0036] Figure 6 exhibit Figure 5A Unassembled view of the nozzle and odor control assembly.

[0037] Fig. 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 7C 6 shows the various positions of the scent dial assembly.

[0038] Figure 8One example of a scent dial assembly consistent with the present disclosure is shown.

[0039] Fig. 9 An exploded view of one example of a scent dial assembly consistent with the present disclosure is shown.

[0040] Fig.10 Another exploded view of a scent dial assembly consistent with the present disclosure is shown.

[0041] Fig.11 One example of a cartridge consistent with the present disclosure is shown.

[0042] Fig.12 One example of a fragrance component according to the present disclosure is shown.

[0043] Fig.13A A bottom view of a cartridge consistent with the present disclosure is shown.

[0044] Fig. 13B A perspective view showing a cartridge consistent with the present disclosure.

[0045] Fig.14A A perspective view showing a cap consistent with the present disclosure.

[0046] Fig. 14B A bottom view of a cap consistent with the present disclosure is shown.

[0047] Fig.15 Shown is a top view of a tray consistent with the present disclosure.

[0048] 16A and 16B show a schematic diagram consistent with the present disclosure. Fig.15 Cross-section of a pallet.

[0049] Fig.15 Showing a top view of a tray and motor duct consistent with the present disclosure.

[0050] Fig.18 , Fig.19 and Fig. 20 Various perspective views of a tray consistent with the present disclosure are shown.

[0051] Fig.21 One example according to the present disclosure is shown generally illustrating the air flow path through the scent dial assembly and tray.

[0052] Fig. 22 , Fig.23 and Fig.24 The scent dial assembly is shown in the maximum intensity position consistent with the present disclosure.

[0053] Fig.25 , Fig.26 and Fig. 27The scent dial assembly is shown in the minimum intensity position consistent with the present disclosure.

[0054] Fig.28 , Fig.29 and Fig.30 The scent dial assembly is shown in a first, intermediate intensity position consistent with the present disclosure.

[0055] Fig.31 , Fig.32 and Fig.33 The scent dial assembly is shown in a second, intermediate intensity position consistent with the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] The present disclosure is generally directed to an odor control assembly for use in a surface cleaning device. The odor control assembly may include an adjustment member that is transitionable between a plurality of user-selectable positions to vary the amount of fragrance particles output by the odor control assembly during use of the surface cleaning device.

[0057] In more detail, the fragrance particles can be provided by a fragrance component connected to an adjustment component, wherein the fragrance component provides at least one fragrance air path. The adjustment component can adjust the width of the opening leading to the fragrance air path based on the multiple user-selectable positions. Then, the air traveling through the fragrance air path can make the fragrance particles become air-floating. Then, the odor control assembly can output air-floating fragrance particles, which may also be referred to as fragrance particles in this article. The odor control assembly can output air-floating fragrance particles to the dirty air passage defined by the nozzle of the surface cleaning device. For example, the air that can be transmitted via the fragrance air path of the fragrance component can be provided from a motor. The temperature of the air transmitted across the motor and / or the speed of the air transmitted across the motor can be advantageously used to ensure that a predetermined amount of fragrance particles is output by the odor control assembly. In an example, the predetermined amount of fragrance particles is at least 4 milligrams per hour (mg / h).

[0058] The adjustment component may be removably coupled to the odor control assembly. The adjustment component and the fragrance component may be decoupled together as a single unit. The fragrance component may be removed from the adjustment component for replacement purposes.

[0059] Figure 1AA surface cleaning device 100 consistent with aspects of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the surface cleaning device 100 includes an upright section 104 coupled to a nozzle 106. The upright section 104 can be pivotally coupled to the nozzle 106. The upright section 104 may also include a receiver 105 to receive and be coupled to a handle portion (not shown). The handle portion coupled to the receiver 105 may include a suction motor (also referred to herein as the first motor) and a dust cup, but unless specifically claimed, this is not a limitation of the present disclosure. The suction motor may be configured to generate suction. The suction motor may be fluidically coupled to the dirty air passage of the nozzle 106 to draw dirty air into the dust cup.

[0060] The surface cleaning apparatus 100 can further include a first wheel 108-1 and a second wheel 108-2 coupled to the nozzle 106. The first wheel 108-1 and the second wheel 108-2 can be coupled on opposite sides of the nozzle 106. For example, the first wheel 108-1 and the second wheel 108-2 can be coupled adjacent a pivot joint that rotatably couples the upright section 104 and the nozzle 106. The first wheel 108-1 and the second wheel 108-2 can be unpowered or driven by a motor, as discussed in further detail below.

[0061] The nozzle 106 may include a nozzle housing 107. The nozzle housing 107 may extend from a first lateral end 112-1 to a second lateral end 112-2 (e.g., left and right) and / or from a front end 112-3 and a rear end 112-4 along a longitudinal axis 150. During cleaning operation, the longitudinal axis 150 of the nozzle housing 107 may extend transversely relative to a primary direction of travel 151.

[0062] The nozzle housing 107 may define a nozzle cavity 109 (see Figure 1F ) and / or one or more agitator chambers 117 (see Figure 1E ). The nozzle chamber 109 may include a plurality of components disposed therein, and the agitator chamber 117 may include one or more rotating agitator / brush rolls 113.

[0063] The surface cleaning apparatus 100 can further include an odor control assembly 110. The odor control assembly 110 can be coupled to the nozzle housing 107. For example, the odor control assembly 110 can be at least partially disposed in the nozzle housing 107, and more particularly in the nozzle cavity 109 of the nozzle housing 107.

[0064] like Figure 1B to Figure 1C106, the odor control assembly 110 includes an adjustment component 114. The adjustment component 114 can be configured to allow a user to adjust the amount of fragrance particles introduced into the dirty air passage of the nozzle 106, as discussed in more detail below. Alternatively or in addition, the adjustment component 114 can be used to adjust the amount of fragrance particles introduced into the environment around the surface cleaning device 100 (e.g., the fragrance particles do not necessarily pass through the dirty air passage). The adjustment component 114 can be configured to transition between multiple user-selectable positions to adjust the amount of fragrance particles released into the dirty air passage and / or the surrounding environment. The adjustment component 114 can also be referred to as a fragrance dial, or simply a dial.

[0065] The adjustment member 114 may be configured to be displaced by a force provided by a user to transition the adjustment member 114 between the plurality of user-selected positions. The plurality of user-selectable positions may include at least a first open position for releasing a first predetermined amount of fragrance from the fragrance member into the dirty air passageway and a closed position for substantially preventing and / or minimizing the amount of fragrance released into the dirty air passageway of the surface cleaning device 100. The plurality of user-selectable positions may further include a second open position for releasing a second predetermined amount of fragrance from the fragrance member into the dirty air passageway of the surface cleaning device 100, the second predetermined amount of fragrance being different from the first amount of fragrance.

[0066] The adjustment member 114 can be rotatably coupled to the nozzle housing 107. In addition, the adjustment member 114 can be transformed between the plurality of user-selectable positions based on rotational movement of the adjustment member about the first rotation axis 122 (see Figure 1A The adjustment member 114 may include a protrusion 120 (see Figure 1C ), which can, for example, receive a user-provided force from a user's finger to transition to a desired user-selectable position among the multiple user-selectable positions.

[0067] As shown, a plurality of visual indicators 116 may be disposed adjacent to the adjustment member 114. The plurality of visual indicators 116 may be disposed on the nozzle housing 107. Each of the plurality of visual indicators 116 may correspond to one of the plurality of user-selectable positions. The adjustment member 114 may include a selector indicator 118. The selector indicator 118 may be a visual indicator, such as a sticker or other surface feature (such as, but not limited to, a concave surface), which may indicate to the user the current user-selected position. Figure 1CAs shown, display selector indicator 118 is arranged adjacent to the first user selectable position. In this example, the first user selectable position is indicated by a corresponding visual indicator in the plurality of visual indicators 116. As shown, this corresponding visual indicator includes a "0" symbol representing a minimum fragrance intensity value (such as but not limited to zero / off). This first user selectable position may also be referred to as a closed position. In this closed position, the odor control assembly 110 is preferably configured to emit / output fragrance particles less than 1 milligram / hour (mg / hour). In some instances, the odor control assembly 110 may be configured to emit / output fragrance particles of a minimum amount (such as, substantially zero and / or less than 1Mg / hour) when in a closed position.

[0068] Each of the plurality of user selectable positions may be positioned at a predetermined distance from one another. Figure 1C As shown, each of the plurality of user-selectable positions is disposed at a uniform distance from one another so that the adjustment member 114 is rotated a predetermined number of degrees about the first rotation axis 122 (see Figure 1A ) will transform the adjustment component 114 to a different user-selected position.

[0069] like Figure 1C , the user can change the adjustment component from a first user-selected position (e.g., a closed position) to a second user-selected position (e.g., a position indicated as "30") based on rotating the adjustment component 114 around the first rotation axis 122 (e.g., 30 degrees counterclockwise). In this example, the odor control assembly 110 can be configured to output / emit / release a second amount of fragrance particles at the second user-selected position. The second amount of fragrance particles released at the second position can be different from the first amount of fragrance particles released at the first position. The second amount of fragrance particles released at the second position can be in the range of 1 to 100% (e.g., 1 to 33%) of the maximum amount of fragrance particles. As a non-limiting example, the maximum amount of fragrance particles can be at least 4 mg / hour, such as at least 9 mg / hour. In this particular example, the position generally shown with the indicator "90" can be a user-selectable position that outputs the maximum amount of fragrance particles.

[0070] Note that the present disclosure need not be limited in this respect, and each of the user selectable positions may be positioned / positioned at other positions, such as 30, 50, or 90 degrees, from each other. Likewise, the distance between each of the user selected positions need not be uniform, and may vary.

[0071] In at least one example, each subsequent user-selected position of the plurality of user-selected positions after the closed position causes the odor control assembly 110 to release a greater amount of fragrance particles.

[0072] The plurality of user selectable positions may include a release position. The release position may be at a position other than the user selectable position for adjusting the output of the fragrance particles. For example, and with reference to Figure 1C , the release position may be when the adjustment member 114 is rotated 120 degrees counterclockwise from the closed position. The release position may be marked / indicated, for example, via a visual indicator (120 degree position) disposed at a corresponding position on the nozzle housing 107.

[0073] In the release position, the adjustment component 114 may be configured to be decoupled from the nozzle housing 107 based on a pulling force supplied by a user along an axis extending substantially parallel (e.g., coaxial) to the first rotation axis 122. The adjustment component 114 and the fragrance component may be decoupled from the nozzle housing 107 in the release position. The adjustment component 114 and the fragrance component may be fixed together so that when the adjustment component 114 is decoupled from the nozzle housing 107, the adjustment component 114 and the fragrance component remain coupled together.

[0074] Figure 1D Show along Figure 1A DD is a cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning device 100 taken along the line DD of FIG. As shown, the odor control assembly 110 can be at least partially disposed in the nozzle cavity 109, for example, adjacent to the first end 112-1 of the nozzle housing 107. The odor control assembly 110 may further include a tray 111, a cam 124, and a fragrance component 126. The adjustment component 114 can be coupled to the tray 111 by means of the cam 124 and / or the fragrance component 126. The adjustment component 114 can also be coupled to the nozzle housing 107 directly or by means of the cam 124 and / or the fragrance component 126. The adjustment component 114, the cam 124, and the fragrance component 126 can be coupled together in a nested / concentric relationship and share a common axis.

[0075] The tray 111 may separate the odor control assembly 110 from other components within the nozzle cavity 109, such as the control circuitry 128 that may be disposed therein. As shown, the odor control assembly 110 may further include an O-ring 125 disposed between the adjustment member 114 and a surface of the nozzle housing 107 to form a substantially airtight seal / interface and minimize or otherwise reduce the likelihood of fragrance particles being released / leaked therethrough.

[0076] As further shown, the nozzle housing 107 can include (eg, define) a dirty air passage 130 extending through at least a portion of the nozzle housing 107. The dirty air passage 130 can be fluidly coupled to a dirty air inlet 132 (see Figure 1E). The dirty air passage 130 may be further fluidly coupled to a suction motor as discussed above to draw debris / dirty air into the dirty air passage 130 for storage in a dust cup or the like. The nozzle housing 107 may further include one or more drive motors 134 (also referred to herein as a second motor) disposed in the nozzle cavity 109. The drive motor 134 may be disposed adjacent to the second end 112-2 of the nozzle housing 107. The drive motor 134 may be a DC motor (e.g., a brushed DC motor) and / or an AC motor.

[0077] The drive motor 134 can extend along a motor longitudinal axis 152 from the first end toward the second end. The motor longitudinal axis 152 can extend generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 150 of the nozzle housing 107. The first end of the drive motor 134 can include a motor shaft 136, which can be disposed adjacent to the second end 112-2 of the nozzle housing 107, for example. The motor shaft 136 can be coupled to the first wheel 108-1 and / or the second wheel 108-2 for driving purposes. Alternatively or in addition, the motor shaft 136 can be coupled to one or more of the agitator / brush rollers 113 ( Figure 1E ) to drive the agitator / brush roller.

[0078] The first end of the drive motor 134 may include an air inlet 131 ( Figure 1D ). The air inlet 131 of the drive motor 134 can be positioned adjacent to the motor port / motor vent 132 provided by the nozzle housing 107. The turbine / fan can be coupled to the drive motor 134 to generate suction as air is displaced toward the second end of the drive motor 134 when the drive motor shaft 136 rotates. Alternatively, the low pressure area formed by the dirty air passage can pull air into the nozzle cavity 109 and across the drive motor 134 via the motor port / motor vent 132. In either case, the suction can be configured to draw at least 12.0±+-0.5 CFM.

[0079] The suction force generated can be configured to draw air from the environment around the nozzle housing 107 via the motor vent 132, and receive the drawn air into the drive motor 134 by means of the air inlet 131 of the motor 134. Therefore, the air drawn into the drive motor 134 is so-called "clean" air. The received air can then be drawn above one or more heat generating components such as stators and / or windings in the drive motor 134 for cooling purposes. The received air can then absorb heat from the one or more heat generating components of the drive motor 134. The drive motor 134 may further include an air outlet adjacent to the second end of the drive motor 134 to output the heated air. The temperature of the air output by the drive motor 134 in this manner can be in the range of 25 degrees Celsius to 50 degrees Celsius.

[0080] The air output from the drive motor 134 can be delivered to the odor control assembly 110. As discussed further below, the airflow rate of the air delivered across the drive motor 134 to the odor control assembly 110 and / or the temperature of the delivered air can be advantageously used to enhance and / or control the amount of fragrance particles output by the odor control assembly 110 during use of the surface cleaning device 100.

[0081] As further shown, the dirty air passage 130 is disposed between the odor control assembly 110 and the drive motor 134 .

[0082] Figure 1E Display along Figure 1B EE of the surface cleaning device 100. Although the drive motor 134 was previously described as being disposed adjacent to the second end 112-2 of the nozzle housing 107 near the rear portion 112-4 (and the odor control assembly 110 is disposed adjacent to the first end 112-1 of the nozzle housing 107 near the rear portion 112-4), it should be understood that one or more drive motors may be located anywhere in the nozzle housing 107. For example, the drive motor 138 (also referred to herein as the third motor) may also be disposed in the nozzle housing 107, adjacent to the first lateral end 112-1 and / or the second lateral end 112-2 of the nozzle housing 107 near the front portion 112-3, and may be configured to drive one or more agitators / brush rollers 113.

[0083] Figure 1F Surface cleaning apparatus 100 is shown with cover 127 of nozzle housing 107 omitted for clarity (e.g., in FIG. Figure 1A 107). As shown, the nozzle cavity 109 defines a receiver / motor cavity 140. The motor cavity 140 can be disposed adjacent to the second end 112-2 of the nozzle housing 107. The motor cavity 140 can be configured to securely mount the drive motor 134 within the nozzle housing 107. The motor cavity 140 can be further configured to form an airtight seal, for example, when the cover 127 is coupled to the nozzle housing 107. The motor cavity 140 can be fluidly coupled to the motor vent 132 of the nozzle housing 107 to draw air to the drive motor 134, as discussed above. The motor cavity 140 can be fluidly coupled to the odor control assembly 110.

[0084] The motor cavity 140 can be fluidly coupled to the odor control assembly 110 via one or more motor channels / motor ducts 142. The motor duct 142 can be configured to provide air transmitted across the drive motor 134 to the odor control assembly 110. In more detail, the motor duct 142 can include a first end that is fluidly coupled to the motor cavity 140 and / or the drive motor 134, and a second end that is fluidly coupled to the inlet 144 of the odor control assembly 110. The motor duct 142 can be arranged along a nozzle housing 107 (see Figure 1A ) of the longitudinal axis 150 (see Figure 1A ) extends in a direction generally parallel to the motor cavity 140. The motor duct 142 can extend at least partially across (or completely across) the dirty air passage 130. For example, the motor duct 142 can extend at least partially across the dirty air passage 130 in a transverse relationship. Alternatively, a duct, channel, and / or tubing can be used to connect between the motor cavity 140 and / or the drive motor 134 and the inlet 144 of the odor control assembly 110.

[0085] The odor control assembly 110, such as the tray 111 of the odor control assembly 110, can form an airtight seal with the cover 127 of the nozzle housing 107 when the cover 127 is coupled thereto. The outlet 146 of the odor control assembly 110 can be fluidically coupled to the dirty air passage 130. As shown, the outlet 146 of the odor control assembly 110 is fluidically coupled to the dirty air passage 130 by means of an odor channel / smell duct 148 and an aperture 160. The odor duct 148 can be formed by a straight Z-shaped or L-shaped section. Note that the odor duct 148 can also be formed by a U-shaped section that forms a channel / channel to guide the air output from the outlet 146 of the odor control assembly 110. The bottom surface of the cover 127 of the nozzle housing 107 can be configured to be coupled to the U-shaped section and form a substantially airtight seal with the duct 148. This can advantageously allow the bottom surface of the cover 127 of the nozzle housing 107 to define at least a section of a channel / duct that fluidly couples the outlet 146 of the odor control assembly 110 to the dirty air passage 130. Alternatively, a tube may be used to couple between the outlet 146 of the odor control assembly 110 and the passage 130.

[0086] Figure 1G and Figure 1H Each one displays Figure 1F107 of the nozzle housing 107 of the surface cleaning device 100 shown in FIG. In some examples, the inlet 144 of the odor control assembly 110 may include a one-way valve. The one-way valve may include a valve member formed of materials such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber or acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (also known as nitrile rubber or Buna rubber). The valve member can be configured to be displaced into the cavity 133 (which can be at least partially defined by the tray 111) based on the air flowing from the drive motor 134, for example. Then, the displaced valve member allows the air transmitted from the drive motor 134 to enter the cavity 133. On the other hand, the valve member can be further configured to return to a seated position against the inlet 144 when the flow rate and / or pressure of the air from the drive motor 134 drops below a threshold value (e.g., the drive motor 134 is cut off) (e.g., based on the elasticity of the material forming the valve member) to minimize or otherwise substantially prevent air from escaping from the cavity 133 of the tray 111. The outlet 146 may include a similar configuration as the inlet 144, and may also include a one-way valve configuration. Thus, typically in the absence of air being transmitted across the drive motor 134, the inlet 144 and / or the outlet 146 may be configured to close / seal upon the return of the corresponding valve member to the seated position. In the closed / sealed position, each of the inlet 144 and the outlet 146 may prevent at least 80% of air flow therethrough, such as preventing at least 90% of air flow therethrough.

[0087] As further shown, the adjustment component 114 can be placed at a user-selected position that at least partially fluidly closes one or more through-holes or fragrance passages 162 (see Figure 1D ) is connected to the inlet 144, and thus is connected to the drive motor 134 by extension to receive the air delivered by the drive motor. The adjustment member 114 may include a base 115 (see Figure 1G ). The base 115 may also be referred to herein as a cap or gripping portion. The base 115 of the adjustment member 114 may further include a first arm 170-1 and a second arm 170-2 extending therefrom (see Figure 1H and Fig. 1I ). The first arm 170-1 and the second arm 170-2 can extend from the base 115, for example, substantially parallel to each other. The first arm 170-1 and the second arm 170-2 can be disposed on opposite sides of the base 115. These features of the adjustment member 114 can also be Figure 2D to Figure 2G See more clearly in.

[0088] Cam 124 (see Figure 1D ) may define a first pore 164-1 and a second pore 164-2 (see Figure 1G to Figure 1H), for example, they can be arranged opposite to each other. The first aperture 164-1 and the second aperture 164-2 can be aligned with each other, for example Figure 2H and Fig.2I The first aperture 164-1 and the second aperture 164-2 can be configured to be substantially aligned with the one or more fragrance passages 162 of the fragrance component 126 when the fragrance component 126 is disposed between the first aperture 164-1 and the second aperture 164-2 of the cam 124. The adjustment component 114 can be configured to rotate relative to the cam 124 about the first rotation axis 122 ( Figure 1A ), wherein the cam 124 (and the fragrance component 126) remain in a fixed position. Rotation of the adjustment component 114 can then cause the first and second arms 170-1, 170-2 of the adjustment component 114 to reach a position that at least partially blocks / obstructs the first aperture 164-1 and the second aperture 164-2 of the cam 124 to minimize or otherwise reduce air flow through the fragrance component 126.

[0089] Alternatively, the first arm 170-1 and the second arm 170-2 may be integrated into the nozzle housing 107 as a continuous cylindrical extrusion. This extrusion may contain one or more through holes that serve as air passages through the fragrance component 126. The adjustment component 114, cam 124, and fragrance component 126 may rotate together as a unit while the extrusion in the nozzle housing 107 remains stationary.

[0090] The first arm 170-1 and the second arm 170-2 can be configured to selectively block a portion or all of the first aperture 164-1 and the second aperture 164-2 so as to prevent at least a portion of the air flow through the fragrance component 126 and, in the aforementioned closed position of the adjustment component 114, substantially prevent all air flow through the fragrance component 126, for example, prevent / restrict at least 90% of the air flow.

[0091] Thus, based on the alignment of the first and second arms 170 - 1 , 170 - 2 of the adjustment component 114 relative to the first and second apertures 164 - 1 , 164 - 2 of the cam 124 , the amount of air passing through the at least one through hole 162 of the fragrance component 126 may be selectively increased or decreased.

[0092] Figure 1G The example of FIG. 1 shows the adjustment component 114 in the open position. In this open position, the first aperture 164 - 1 of the cam 124 and the at least one through hole 162 of the fragrance component are fluidly coupled to the inlet 144 . Figure 1H Show from opposite side Figure 1GAs shown, the first arm 170-1 of the adjustment member 114 partially blocks the second aperture 164-2 of the cam 124. Therefore, in this example, the amount of air flowing through the fragrance member 126 is less than the maximum air flow but greater than zero.

[0093] Fig. 1I exhibit Figure 1F 1 and 12. As shown, the adjustment member 114 can be transformed into a user-selectable position that fluidly closes the at least one fragrance passage 162 of the fragrance member 126 based on the first arm 170-1 and the second arm 170-2 of the adjustment member 114 blocking the first aperture 164-1 and the second aperture 164-2 of the cam 124. Figure 1H ) is decoupled from the air transmitted across the drive motor 134. This user-selectable position may also be referred to as a closed position. Note that the adjustment component 114 need not be limited to a single user-selectable position that fluidly decouples the at least one fragrance passage 162 of the fragrance component 126 from the air transmitted across the drive motor 134.

[0094] like Fig. 1I As further shown in FIG. 1 , this closed position can also fluidly couple the bypass path 174 to air transmitted across the drive motor 134. Figure 1J As more clearly shown in FIG. 1 , bypass path 174 is at least partially defined by tray 111 and outer surfaces of adjustment member 114 and / or cam 124. Bypass path 174 can be configured to receive at least 80% of the air transmitted across drive motor 134 when adjustment member 114 is in the closed position, and more preferably receive at least 99% of the air transmitted across drive motor 134. Conversely, when adjustment member 114 is in the open position (e.g., Figure 1H ), the air flow through the bypass path 174 may be at least partially reduced.

[0095] Return briefly to Fig. 1I , the tab feature / yoke feature 166 can be provided by the adjustment member 114 or the tray 111. As shown, the yoke feature 166 can be defined by the tray 111 and can extend toward the adjustment member 114. In this example, the adjustment member 114 (and / or the cam 124) can include an outer diameter of varying width, where the varying width is used to vary the opening to the bypass path 174. This feature is similar to a concentric nut.

[0096] Thus, when the adjustment member 114 is in the closed position, for example Figure 1H , the opening of the bypass path 174 may be at a maximum width to allow a maximum predetermined amount of air flow. Conversely, when the adjustment member 114 is in the open position, for example Fig. 1IAs shown in FIG. 1 , the opening to the bypass path 174 may be closed or otherwise reduced.

[0097] The odor control assembly 110 can be configured to utilize the bypass path 174 to ensure that a substantially equal or constant amount of air flow flows through the drive motor 134, regardless of the particular user-selected position of the adjustment component 114. This can advantageously prevent overheating of the drive motor 134. Consider an example in which the user turns the adjustment component 114 to a position that causes the odor control assembly 110 to output 50% of the maximum amount of fragrance particles. In this example, the bypass path 174 can be configured to receive approximately half of the air transmitted across the drive motor 134, while the remainder passes through the at least one through hole of the fragrance component 126.

[0098] The bypass path 174 is preferably configured to receive air transmitted across the motor 134 in a first direction and redirect the received air in a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are different. More preferably, the first direction can extend away from the motor 134 and toward the odor control assembly 110, and the second direction can extend toward the dirty air passage 130. The bypass path 174 can be curved.

[0099] Note that the odor control assembly 110 need not be limited to being fluidly coupled to the drive motor 134, as discussed above. The odor control assembly 110 may include an inlet 144 that is fluidly coupled to other air sources, such as a suction motor. As discussed above, the odor control assembly 110 also need not be limited to providing / outputting fragrance particles to the dirty air path 130 of the surface cleaning device 100. Alternatively or in addition, the odor control assembly 110 may, for example, output fragrance particles to the environment without transmitting the fragrance particles via the dirty air path 130, or may, for example, output fragrance particles at the clean air output of the suction motor. It should also be noted that the odor control assembly 110 may not need to be positioned / mounted on the nozzle housing 107, such as Figure 1A The odor control assembly 110 can be positioned / mounted at various locations on the nozzle housing 107, such as at the center of the nozzle housing 107, or, for example, mounted on other features / structures of the surface cleaning apparatus 100 (e.g., the upright section 104), mounted on a wand assembly that can be coupled to the upright section 104, mounted on a handle coupled to the upright section 104, mounted within a dust cup (not shown), or mounted in a hose and dust cup connection.

[0100] Figure 2A An exploded view of an example odor control assembly 210 consistent with aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The odor control assembly 210 may be used to implement Figures 1A to 1JThe various features and examples of the odor control assembly 110 are also applicable to the odor control assembly 210 and will not be repeated for the sake of brevity.

[0101] The odor control assembly 210 includes an adjustment member 214, a cam 224, a fragrance member 226, an O-ring 225, and a tray 211. As shown, the odor control assembly 210 may further include a line / duct 242 to fluidly couple to an inlet 244 defined by the tray 211. The duct 242 is preferably used to fluidly couple air transmitted across the drive motor to the odor control assembly 210. The odor control assembly 210 may further include a duct / duct 248 to fluidly couple an outlet 246 defined by the tray 211 to a dirty air passage, such as the dirty air passage 130 discussed above.

[0102] Figure 2B and Figure 2C exhibit Figure 2A The tray 211 of the present invention can be provided with a tray 211. The tray 211 can include materials such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene, polyphenylene oxide, polyoxymethylene or polypropylene. As shown, the bottom surface 201 of the tray 211 can define a recess / at least one channel 269. The at least one channel 269 can be configured to receive a portion of the cam 224 and / or the adjustment component 214 for the purpose of connection. The at least one channel 269 can preferably be configured to provide a track / guide to allow the rotational movement of the adjustment component 214, the cam 224 and / or the fragrance component 226, and thus by extension, allow the adjustment component 214 to transition between the multiple user-selectable positions, as discussed above. The at least one channel 269 can be configured to allow the adjustment component 214 to rotate 360 ​​degrees, or limit the movement to less than 360 degrees. For example, and as shown, the at least one channel 269 is configured to allow the adjustment component 214 to rotate up to 120 degrees.

[0103] As further shown, the at least one channel 269 preferably further defines one or more position recesses 272. More preferably, the at least one channel 269 may define a plurality of such position recesses 272. Each of the one or more position recesses 272 may correspond to a different user-selectable position of the adjustment member 214. The adjustment member 214 may further include a tab / position protrusion 268 (see Figure 2A ), which can be received by each of the one or more position recesses 272. The position protrusion 268 can extend from the first arm 270-1 of the adjustment member 214. Alternatively, the tab / position protrusion 268 can be included in the cam 224, but can extend from another portion of the adjustment member 214.

[0104] The position protrusion 268 and the one or more position grooves 272 of the adjustment member 214 can provide a tongue and groove arrangement together. The position protrusion 268 is further preferably configured to provide tactile feedback to the user when the user changes the adjustment member 214 between user-selectable positions. The position protrusion 268 is further configured to "lock" in place when the adjustment member changes between the multiple user-selectable positions. When the user wishes to change the current user-selected position, the user then supplies a rotational force sufficient to displace and / or elastically deform the position protrusion 268 (e.g., by defining the curved sidewalls of the one or more grooves 272) to the adjustment member 214. This displacement / elastic deformation of the position protrusion 268 generates a counterforce / spring force. When the adjustment member 214 rotates, the position protrusion 268 is then aligned with the next position groove 272, and the position protrusion 268 is then released based on the spring force of the position protrusion 268 and "snaps" into it. This advantageously provides tactile feedback to the user to indicate that the next user-selected position has been reached. Additionally, this tongue and groove arrangement may maintain / hold the adjustment member 214 in a user-selected position to accommodate movement and / or vibration that may occur during use of the surface cleaning apparatus 100 .

[0105] Figure 2D to Figure 2G Show separately Figure 2A The adjustment member 214 is a member of the embodiment of the present invention. The adjustment member 214 may include materials such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene, polyphenylene oxide, polyoxymethylene, or polypropylene. In some examples, the adjustment member 214 may have a cylindrical profile such as shown, but other shapes / profiles are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0106] FIG. 2H to FIG. 2I Show separately Figure 2A The cam 224 of the embodiment of the present invention is a cam 224. The cam 224 can include materials such as polyphenylene oxide, polyoxymethylene, or polypropylene. In some examples, the cam 224 can have a cylindrical profile such as shown, but other shapes / profiles are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0107] The cam 224 may include, for example, a first aperture 264-1 and a second aperture 264-2 disposed on substantially opposite sides. As discussed above, the first aperture 264-1 and the second aperture 264-2 may be aligned with the one or more through holes or fragrance passages 262 of the fragrance component 226 (see, for example, Figure 2J to Figure 2L). The cam 224 can be fixedly coupled to the fragrance component 226 and / or the tray 211. Thus, when the adjustment component 214 is rotated to a given user-selectable position, the cam 224 and the fragrance component 226 can remain in a fixed position. Alternatively, the adjustment component 214, the cam 224, and the fragrance component 226 can be fixed together when rotated to a given user-selectable position. Additional fixing components can be provided to partially and / or completely block the first aperture 264-1 and the second aperture 264-2 on the cam 224.

[0108] The adjustment component 214 can then change the amount of air delivered to the fragrance component 226, for example, based on the position of the first arm 270-1 and the second arm 270-2 (see Figure 2G ). The first arm 270-1 and the second arm 270-2 can be configured to at least substantially completely / entirely block the first aperture 264-1 and the second aperture 264-2 when the adjustment component 214 is in the closed position. On the other hand, the first arm 270-1 and the second arm 270-2 can be configured to only partially block / obstruct the first aperture 264-1 and the second aperture 264-2 to, for example, change the amount of fragrance particles output by the odor control assembly 210 based on a desired user selection, or not block the first aperture 264-1 and the second aperture 264-2 so that the odor control assembly 210 outputs a maximum amount of fragrance particles. In any such case, the adjustment component 214 can adjust the cross-section of the air path opening leading to the fragrance component 226 to change the total amount of fragrance particles output by the odor control assembly 210.

[0109] Figure 2J Show separately Figure 2A The fragrance component 226 of the present invention can be formed into a solid. In some embodiments, the fragrance component 226 can include a material containing at least one of ethylene vinyl acetate, thermoplastic polyurethane and / or polyolefin. The fragrance component 226 can be injected with one or more fragrance oils, and / or one or more fragrance oils are placed on the fragrance component 226. The fragrance component 226 can include the one or more fragrance oils injected and / or placed on the surface defining the one or more through holes or fragrance passages 262. In any such case, the fragrance component 226 can be formed into a solid. In some embodiments, the fragrance component 226 can include a liquid fragrance. The liquid fragrance can be dispensed, for example, using wicking, evaporation, etc.

[0110] Figure 2K Display along Figure 2J26. The cross-sectional view of the fragrance component 226 taken along the line KK of FIG. The fragrance component 226 may include at least one through hole / fragrance passage 262, and may optionally include multiple through holes / fragrance passages 262 such as those shown. The fragrance component 226 may have a cylindrical shape. Each through hole / fragrance passage 262 may extend through the fragrance component 226 in a transverse relationship, for example, relative to the longitudinal axis. When utilizing multiple through holes / fragrance passages 262 such as those shown, each of the multiple through holes / fragrance passages 262 may extend substantially parallel to each other. The through holes / fragrance passages 262 may also be collectively referred to as fragrance air paths. The fragrance air path may be formed by one or more through holes / fragrance passages 262, or may alternatively be provided by other features such as the top and / or bottom surfaces of the fragrance component 226. Therefore, the fragrance air path provided by the fragrance component 226 does not have to be limited to the through holes / fragrance passages 262.

[0111] Figure 2L Display along Figure 2J LL of the cross-sectional view of the fragrance component 226. As shown, the fragrance component 226 preferably has an overall diameter D1. The overall diameter D1 is preferably measured in the range of 30mm to 50mm. The overall height H1 of the fragrance component 226 is preferably in the range of 5mm to 50mm.

[0112] One or more (e.g., each) of the through-hole / fragrance passage 262 may have a total height H2 in the range of 1 mm to 10 mm. One or more (e.g., each) of the through-hole / fragrance passage 262 may have a first total width W1. The first total width W1 may be in the range of 15 mm to 40 mm, for example, 25 mm to 35 mm. The opening of the through-hole / fragrance passage 262 may have a first total width W1, which transitions to a second total width W2 at approximately the center of the fragrance component 226. The second total width W2 may be less than the first total width W1 to provide a tapered section (which may also be referred to as an internal taper in this article). The tapered section may be advantageously used to increase the speed of the air passing through the through-hole / fragrance passage 262. The second total width W2 may be in the range of 10 mm to 35 mm, for example, 20 mm to 30 mm.

[0113] The fragrance component 226 can be configured to emit at least 4 mg / h of fragrance particles, and more preferably at least 9 mg / h. Based on a target use of up to one hour per week, the fragrance component 226 can further preferably be configured to have an operational / functional life of at least six months, wherein the fragrance component 226 is configured to emit at least 4 mg / h for at least six months.

[0114] Figure 3AAnother example surface cleaning device 300 consistent with aspects of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the surface cleaning device 300 can include an odor control assembly 310 that is configured substantially similar to the configuration of the odor control assembly 110 / 210 as discussed above. The odor control assembly 310 can further include an adjustment component 312 that includes at least one visual indicator. Figure 3B As shown in , the visual indicator may include an array of status lights 390, which may collectively provide a dial / meter. For example, the status lights 390 may be illuminated by one or more LEDs. The dial / meter may be used to display the current user-selectable position of the adjustment component 312. Figure 3A In the example of , this may include four open positions. Therefore, the first position may correspond to the minimum amount of fragrance particles output by the odor control assembly 310, and the last position may correspond to the maximum amount of fragrance particles output by the odor control assembly 310.

[0115] More simply, the three positions may then correspond to 33% output, 66% output, and 100% output of fragrance particles from the odor control assembly 310, respectively (but it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to these outputs and / or position numbers unless explicitly required). Selecting the first position may energize the rightmost state light in the state lights 390, selecting the second position may energize the two rightmost state lights 390, and so on. The "closed" position may be indicated by the state lights 390 not being energized. The adjustment component 312 may be configured to be rotated by the user so as to transition between these user-selectable positions. Alternatively or in addition, the adjustment component 312 may include a touch-sensitive area / surface to allow the user to input a gesture, such as a finger swipe, so as to transition the adjustment component 312 between user-selectable positions. This embodiment may include a linkage / actuator / gear or other mechanical assembly that may be electrically actuated to adjust the amount of air flow through the associated fragrance component.

[0116] Furthermore, adjustment between user-selectable positions may not necessarily involve rotational movement of the adjustment member. For example, the adjustment member may also be implemented as a gate / sliding door with minor modifications. In this example, the adjustment member may then be displaced along a linear path to transition between user-selectable positions. In any such case, the adjustment member is preferably slidably movable between user-selectable positions to allow the user to conveniently set the amount of fragrance particles output during operation of the surface cleaning device.

[0117] Figure 4AAnother example surface cleaning device 400 consistent with aspects of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the surface cleaning device 400 can include an odor control assembly 410 that is configured substantially similar to the configuration of the odor control assembly 110 / 210 / 310 as discussed above. However, the odor control assembly 410 can further include an adjustment member 414 that includes a rotatable section 415 that is rotatable between Figure 4B More clearly shown in.

[0118] As shown, the rotatable section 415 may be moved from, for example Figure 4A The first orientation shown in the figure is transformed into, for example, Figure 4B The first orientation of the rotatable section 415 may include the rotatable section 415 being flush with the surface defining the adjustment member 414 (see Figure 4B ). The second orientation of the rotatable section 415 may include the rotatable section 415 extending from the nozzle housing 407 at a predetermined angle (eg, a predetermined angle of 90 degrees). Therefore, the second orientation of the rotatable section 415 may be referred to as an extended position.

[0119] The rotatable section 415 may include an arcuate profile that defines a through hole 498 when transitioning to the second orientation, so that the rotatable section 415 can act as a handle. The user can then, for example, use a force supplied by one or more fingers to rotate the rotatable section 415 from the first orientation to the second orientation. The user can then grip the rotatable section 415 by inserting one or more fingers into the through hole 498. The user can then supply force to the rotatable section 415 to rotate the adjustment member 414, as discussed above, so that the adjustment member is transitioned between a plurality of user-selectable positions, so as to select the desired amount of fragrance particles to be output by the odor control assembly 410. The rotatable section 415 can be rotatably coupled to the adjustment member 414 via one or more hinges 411 to transition between the first orientation and the second orientation, and can also be fixedly coupled to the adjustment member 414 to allow the force provided by the user to cause the rotation of the adjustment member 414 (e.g., via torque).

[0120] Now turn to FIG. 5A to FIG. 6, another example of a surface cleaning device 500 having an odor control assembly 501 consistent with the present disclosure is shown as a whole. Specifically, the surface cleaning device 500 may include an upright section 504 coupled to a nozzle 506. The surface cleaning device 500 may include any features described herein that will not be repeated for the sake of brevity. The nozzle 506 may include one or more drive motors 508, which may be configured to rotate one or more agitators 510 (which may be at least partially disposed in one or more agitator chambers 512), as described herein as a whole. The nozzle 506 (e.g., the agitator chamber 512) may be fluidically coupled to the upright section 504 by means of a dirty air passage 514.

[0121] The odor control assembly 501 can be configured to receive air (e.g., atmospheric air 505 transmitted across the drive motor 508) to adjust the amount of fragrance and / or neutralizer dispensed into the fragrance air 507 by the odor dial assembly 516. The fragrance air 507 can flow into the dirty air passage 514 and / or can be dispensed substantially directly into the atmosphere (e.g., can not flow through a filter associated with the surface cleaning device 500). The odor control assembly 501 can include at least one odor dial assembly 516 that is configured to be removably coupled to a tray 518 in the surface cleaning device 500. Specifically, FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B The scent dial assembly 516 is generally shown coupled to a tray 518, and Figure 6 The scent dial assembly 516 is generally shown removed from the tray 518. The tray 518 can be formed by the nozzle 506, such as by the housing 503 of the nozzle 506.

[0122] The scent dial assembly 516 and / or the nozzle 506 (e.g., but not limited to, the housing 503 and / or the tray 518) may include one or more visual indicators 550 configured to indicate the amount of fragrance being dispensed. For example, the visual indicator 550 may indicate a minimum and / or off fragrance intensity position, a maximum fragrance intensity position, and / or any number of intermediate fragrance intensity positions. In the example shown, the visual indicator 550 may include a mark that gradually increases in size corresponding to the fragrance intensity increase position.

[0123] Alternatively (or in addition), the visual indicator 550 may include a display (such as (but not limited to) a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) backlit LCD, a thin film transistor (TFT) LCD, a quantum dot (QLED) display, a light emitting diode (LED) display, an OLED display, an AMOLED display, and / or a super AMOLED display) and / or one or more individual LEDs configured to represent the fragrance intensity position of the scent dial assembly 516. Optionally, one or more sensors may be provided. In at least one example, an odor detection sensor may be included downstream of the scent dial assembly 516 to detect the amount of fragrance being dispensed. One or more sensors may also be provided to detect the remaining amount or level of fragrance within the scent dial assembly 516. This information may be displayed on any display.

[0124] Alternatively (or in addition), the scent dial assembly 516 may include a lock and / or unlock indicia 555. The lock and / or unlock indicia 555 may indicate to the user when the scent dial assembly 516 is in an insertion / removal position, and / or when the scent dial assembly 516 is in a locked or fixed position and cannot be removed from the tray 518.

[0125] Steering Fig. 7A , the user can insert the scent dial assembly 516 into and remove the scent dial assembly from the tray 518 by positioning the scent dial assembly 516 in a predetermined alignment relative to the tray 518. Alignment can be facilitated by one or more alignment marks 520 on the scent dial assembly 516 and / or the tray 518. The user can manipulate the scent control assembly 501 to adjust the amount of fragrance and / or neutralizer dispensed by the scent dial assembly 516, for example, by rotating the scent dial assembly 516 around the dial rotation axis 522. The scent dial assembly 516 can be rotated to multiple positions. For example, the scent dial assembly 516 can be rotated between insertion / removal positions (such as Fig. 7A ) to the minimum intensity position (as shown in Figure 7B ), the maximum intensity position (as shown in Figure 7C ), and / or any number of intermediate positions. At the minimum intensity position (e.g. Figure 7B), the odor dial assembly 516 can be rotated about 27.5 degrees counterclockwise and the fragrance intensity is set to the minimum setting. Optionally, the odor control assembly 501 may include one or more intermediate or medium intensity settings (e.g., between the minimum and maximum settings), each of which may correspond to a rotation of about 27.5 degrees beyond the previous position. In the maximum intensity position, the odor dial assembly 516 can be rotated about 110 degrees, and the user sets the fragrance intensity to the maximum setting. In at least one example, various positions may correspond to predefined positions. Alternatively, the odor dial assembly 516 may be infinitely variable. Of course, the present disclosure is not limited to a specific degree of rotation unless specifically required. It should be understood that different positions are not limited to those orders shown relative to their respective orders.

[0126] refer to Figure 8 , generally showing an example of a scent dial assembly 516 consistent with the present disclosure. The scent dial assembly 516 may include a dial body 802 configured to be removably secured to a tray 518 and configured to receive one or more fragrance components 804 (also referred to as fragrance discs). The dial body 802 may have a generally circular cross-section and may be configured to generally form one or more seals with a nozzle 506 (e.g., tray 518), and may optionally define a fragrance cavity 806 configured to receive and generally enclose the fragrance component 804. The dial body 802 and / or the fragrance component 804 may define one or more fragrance passages 808 configured to allow air (e.g., atmospheric air 505 transmitted across a drive motor 508) to flow through / through the fragrance component 804 to transfer fragrance particles into the air to form scented air 507. The dial body 802 may also optionally include one or more air bypass flow paths 810. As explained herein, the air bypass flow paths 810 may be configured to ensure that a sufficient amount of air can flow through the drive motor 508 even when the odor control assembly 501 is in a minimum and / or off position, for example by providing an alternative air path that does not substantially transfer any fragrance particles.

[0127] Now turn to Fig. 9 , generally showing an exploded view of one example of a scent dial assembly 516. The dial body 802 can include a base or barrel 902 and a dial or cap 904. The barrel 902 and the cap 904 can be configured to be removably coupled to each other to at least partially form a fragrance chamber 806 and a fragrance passage 808. In the example shown, the barrel 902 includes an entry port 906 and an exit port (at the end of the barrel 902) of the fragrance passage 808. Fig. 9906, and the aromatherapy component 804, and exit from the exit. The cap 904 may optionally include one or more rotatable sections 908 that serve as handles or D-rings to help insert and remove the scent dial assembly 516. The rotatable sections 908 may be coupled to the cap 904, for example, by means of one or more hinges 910, etc. The cap 904 may also optionally include a fixing ring 912 fixed to the cap 904.

[0128] As described above, the barrel 902 and the cap 904 can be configured to be removably coupled to each other to at least partially form the fragrance chamber 806 and the fragrance passage 808. The barrel 902 and the cap 904 can be removably fixed to each other in any manner known to those skilled in the art, such as (but not limited to) threaded connections, tabs, detents, clamps, etc. The coupling of the barrel 902 and the cap 904 can be facilitated by one or more cap alignment marks 1002, one example of which is generally at Fig.10 Shown in.

[0129] One benefit of the removable connection between the cartridge 902 and the cap 904 is that it allows the cartridge 902 and the fragrance component 804 to be replaced without the user having to touch the fragrance component 804 and without having to replace the entire scent dial assembly 516. Specifically, when the user wishes to replace the fragrance component 804, the user can purchase the cartridge 902 preloaded with the fragrance component 804. The user can then disconnect the cartridge 902 (which contains the fragrance component 804) from the cap 902, and then connect a new cartridge 902 (with the fragrance component 804 preloaded therein) to the existing cap 902.

[0130] Now turn to Fig.11 , generally showing an example of a cartridge 902. The cartridge 902 may include, for example, one or more sidewalls 1102 extending upward from a base 1104. The sidewalls 1102 (and optionally the base 1104) may define a disc chamber 1106 configured to receive the fragrance component 804. The disc chamber 1106 may be the same as the fragrance chamber 806, or may define a portion of the fragrance chamber 806. The sidewalls 1102 may also at least partially define an entry port 906 and an exit port 1108 of a fragrance passage 808. In the example shown, the entry port 906 and the exit port 1108 of the fragrance passage 808 are generally aligned 180 degrees relative to each other; however, it should be understood that the entry port 906 and the exit port 1108 may be aligned at any other angle.

[0131] The sidewall 1102 may optionally include one or more disc alignment features 1110. The disc alignment features 1110 are configured to align the fragrance component 804 relative to the entry port 906 and the exit port 1108. In the example shown, the disc alignment features 1110 include grooves configured to receive corresponding tabs 1202 ( Fig.12 ), and align the passage 1204 of the main body 1206 extending through the fragrance component 804 with the inlet 906 and the exit 1108. The inlet 906, the exit 1108 and the passage 1204 can define (at least partially) the fragrance passage 808 together. The height H of the inlet 906 and / or the exit 1108 can vary across the width W. Specifically, the height H can be smaller near one or more ends of the width and larger between (e.g., in the middle) one or more ends of the width. When the odor dial assembly 516 rotates, the height H of the change can facilitate the adjustment of the air flow through the fragrance passage 808. The passage 1204 extending through the main body 1206 of the fragrance component 804 can include a through hole aligned with the inlet and the exit of the fragrance air path. The through hole can define a passage through the fragrance component 804, which is surrounded by the fragrance component 804 and has an inlet and an outlet. The through hole can also have a cross section corresponding to the cross section of the inlet 906 and the exit 1108. A benefit of the through holes in the fragrance component 804 is that they increase the surface area available for transferring fragrance particles into the air flowing through the fragrance component 804 .

[0132] refer to Fig.10 , Fig.11 and FIG. 13A to FIG. 13B, generally showing an example of an air bypass flow path 810. In the example shown, the cartridge 902 may include, for example, one or more skirts or bypass sidewalls 1302 extending downward from the base 1104. The bypass sidewall 1302 may generally extend around at least a portion of the periphery or periphery of the base 1104 of the cartridge 902, but unless specifically required, this is not a limitation of the present disclosure. For example, the bypass sidewall 1302 may generally extend around only a portion of the bottom of the cartridge 902. The cartridge 902 may include one or more bypass inlets 1304 and a bypass exit 1306 of the air bypass flow path 810. The bypass inlet 1304 and the bypass exit 1306 may be separated by one or more partitions 1308. The bypass sidewall 1302 and the partition 1308 may be configured to rotate generally against the tray 518 and generally seal with the tray, for example, with the bottom surface or base of the tray 518. The bypass sidewall 1302, the dividing wall 1308, the base 1104 (and optionally the tray 518) can at least partially collectively define an air bypass flow path 810 through the scent dial assembly 516. It should be appreciated that the cartridge 902 can optionally include a wall extending from a distal end of the bypass sidewall 1302 and a dividing wall 1308 defining opposite sides of the air bypass flow path 810. As explained herein, rotation of the scent dial assembly 516 (e.g., cartridge 902) can selectively fluidly couple the bypass inlet port 1304 and / or the bypass exit port 1306 to the air bypass flow path 810, thereby adjusting the air flow rate through the air bypass flow path 810.

[0133] The bottom surface of the cartridge 902 may optionally include a groove or the like that allows the cartridge 902 to be easily disconnected from the cap 904. This may allow a user to remove the cartridge 902 without having to touch the cartridge 902.

[0134] Now turn to FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B , generally illustrating one example of a cap 904. As noted herein, the cap 904 can be configured to be removably coupled to the cartridge 902 in any manner known to one skilled in the art. The cap 904 can include one or more locking grooves 1402 configured to engage with one or more tabs or locking protrusions 1502 associated with the tray 518 (e.g., see Fig.15 ) engagement. The locking groove 1402 and the locking protrusion 1502 can be configured to push the scent dial assembly 516 into engagement with the nozzle 506 (e.g., the tray 518) to substantially seal the scent dial assembly 516 as explained herein, while also allowing the scent dial assembly 516 to rotate. In at least one example, at least a portion of the locking groove 1402 and the locking protrusion 1502 can have a ramp profile.

[0135] The locking recesses 1402 can be formed in the sidewalls 1406, for example, extending generally around at least a portion of the perimeter or outer periphery of the top surface 1408 of the cap 904. Each locking recess 1402 can include an access opening 1410. The access openings 1410 can be arranged asymmetrically around the cap 904 so that the access openings 1410 are aligned with the locking protrusions 1502 only in a single orientation, thereby preventing the scent dial assembly 516 from being inadvertently and incorrectly inserted into the tray 518. The access openings 1410 can also have different sizes and / or shapes.

[0136] The cap 904 may optionally include one or more raised ribs 1412. The ribs 1410 may extend generally downward from the top surface 1408 into the fragrance cavity 806 and / or the disc cavity 1106 and are configured to generally limit the movement of the fragrance component 804, prevent the fragrance component 804 from being inserted upside down and / or prevent the cartridge 902 from being inserted upside down into the cap 904.

[0137] Steering Fig.15 , generally showing an example of a tray 518 (which may also be referred to as a scent base). The tray 518 can be at least partially formed by the nozzle 506, such as by the housing 503 of the nozzle 506. The tray 518 may include a recess or the like 1504 having an opening 1506 configured to at least partially accommodate the scent dial assembly 516. Referring to Figures 16A to 16B, the tray 518 may include one or more side walls 1602 and optionally a base 1604. The tray 518 may include a scent inlet 1606 and a scent outlet 1608. The scent inlet 1606 may be configured to fluidly couple the tray 518 to the motor conduit 142 (see, for example, Fig.17 ), which motor conduit itself may include an end that is fluidly coupled to the motor cavity 140 and / or the drive motor 134, as generally described herein. Scent inlet 1606 and / or odor outlet 1608 (see also Figures 18 to 20 ) can have a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the entry port 906 and exit port 1108 of the scent dial assembly 516 (e.g., in the cartridge 902).

[0138] As explained herein, the scent dial assembly 516 is configured to rotate to adjust the alignment of the inlet port 906 and the exit port 1108 of the scent dial assembly 516 relative to the scent inlet 1606 and / or the scent outlet 1608 of the tray 518, thereby adjusting the flow rate through the scent dial assembly 516 (and therefore the amount of fragrance introduced into the air). As the alignment of the scent inlet 1606 and / or the scent outlet 1608 of the scent dial assembly 516 relative to the inlet port 906 and the exit port 1108 of the tray 518 increases (i.e., they become more aligned), the flow rate through the scent dial assembly 516 increases. Conversely, if the scent dial assembly 516 is rotated so that the entry port 906 and the exit port 1108 of the scent dial assembly 516 are not aligned with the scent inlet 1606 and / or the scent outlet 1608 of the tray 518, the flow rate through the scent dial assembly 516 may be minimized and / or substantially prevented. For example, the sidewall 1102 of the cartridge 902 may block all or a portion of the scent inlet 1606 and / or the scent outlet 1608 of the tray 518.

[0139] The tray 518 may also optionally include one or more bypass inlets 1620 and bypass outlets 1622 (see also FIGS. 16A-16B and Figures 18 to 20 ), which fluidically couples the tray 518 to the bypass path 174, as described herein as a whole. The bypass inlet 1620 can be configured to fluidically couple the tray 518 to the bypass path 174, and the bypass outlet 1622 can be configured to fluidically couple the tray 518 to the dirty air passage 514. The bypass inlet 1620 and / or the bypass outlet 1622 can have a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the inlet 1304 and the exit 1306 of the odor dial assembly 516 (e.g., in the cartridge 902). The bypass inlet 1620 and / or the bypass outlet 1622 can be separated by a bypass partition wall 1630.

[0140] As explained herein, the scent dial assembly 516 is configured to rotate to adjust the alignment of the bypass inlet 1304 and bypass exit 1306 of the scent dial assembly 516 relative to the bypass inlet 1620 and / or bypass outlet 1622 of the tray 518, thereby adjusting the flow rate through the scent dial assembly 516 and / or the air bypass 810 below the scent dial assembly. As the alignment of the bypass inlet 1304 and bypass exit 1306 of the scent dial assembly 516 relative to the bypass inlet 1620 and / or bypass outlet 1622 of the tray 518 increases (i.e., they become more aligned), the flow rate through / under the scent dial assembly 516 increases. Conversely, if the scent dial assembly 516 is rotated so that the bypass inlet 1304 and the bypass exit 1306 of the scent dial assembly 516 are not aligned with the bypass inlet 1620 and / or the bypass outlet 1622 of the tray 518, the bypass flow rate 810 through the scent dial assembly 516 can be minimized and / or substantially prevented. For example, the bypass sidewall 1302 of the cartridge 902 can block all or a portion of the bypass inlet 1620 and / or the bypass outlet 1622 of the tray 518.

[0141] The tray 518 may also optionally include one or more sealing surfaces or seals 1610 (e.g., best seen in FIGS. 16A-16B ) configured to sealingly engage the odor dial assembly 516. The seal 1610 may include an elastically deformable material, such as, but not limited to, an O-ring or the like. In the example shown, the seal 1610 may be disposed on a shelf 1612 formed in / on the sidewall 1602 and may be configured to engage with a corresponding shelf 820 (e.g., formed by the cap 904) formed when the odor dial assembly 516 is received in the tray 518. Figure 8 ) are sealingly engaged. Of course, this arrangement can be reversed, and other seals are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0142] refer to Fig.17 , the tray 518 may also optionally include a cam 1702. The cam 1702 may include a plurality of detent grooves 1704 corresponding to the plurality of predefined positions of the scent dial assembly 516 (e.g., but not limited to, an insertion / removal position, a minimum intensity position, one or more intermediate intensity positions, and / or a maximum intensity position). Specifically, the scent dial assembly 516 may include one or more resilient detent rods 1320 ( FIG. 13A to FIG. 13B1704) which is configured to engage the detent recess 1704. The interaction between the detent recess 1704 and the detent lever 1320 allows the user to easily identify different intensity positions of the scent dial assembly 516 relative to the tray 518. In the illustrated example, the cam 1702 can be located on the base 1604 of the tray 518 and the resilient detent lever 1320 can be located on the base 1104 of the scent dial assembly 516, but unless specifically required to do so, this is not a limitation of the present disclosure and the cam 1702 and resilient detent lever 1320 can be located anywhere on the tray 518 and the scent dial assembly 516.

[0143] Steering Fig.21 , generally showing an example, which generally shows the air flow path through the odor dial assembly 516 and the tray 518. Ambient (atmospheric) air 2102 can flow through the drive motor 508, where the heat from the drive motor 508 can be transferred to the air. The heated air 2104 can selectively flow through the motor duct 142 to the odor inlet 1606 and / or odor outlet 1608 of the tray 518 and the inlet 906 and exit 1108 of the odor dial assembly 516, as described in general herein. Optionally, a portion of the heated air 2104 can selectively flow through the air bypass flow path 810 to the bypass inlet 1620 and / or bypass outlet 1622 of the tray 518 and the bypass inlet 1304 and bypass exit 1306 of the odor dial assembly 516, as described in general herein. The nozzle 506 may optionally include a dedicated motor cooling air path 2106 that may bypass the odor control assembly 501 .

[0144] Figures 22 to 33 5 is a general exemplary orientation of the scent dial assembly 516 in various positions, thereby achieving alignment of the scent inlet 1606 and the scent outlet 1608 of the tray 518 relative to the inlet port 906 and the exit port 1108 of the scent dial assembly 516, thereby achieving alignment of the bypass inlet 1620 and / or the bypass outlet 1622 of the tray 518 relative to the bypass inlet port 1304 and the bypass exit port 1306 of the scent dial assembly 516, and thereby creating an air flow path. Specifically,

[0145] Figure 22 to Figure 24 The scent dial assembly 516 is generally shown in a maximum intensity position. In the maximum intensity position, the bypass inlet 1620 and / or the bypass outlet 1622 of the tray 518 are not aligned with the bypass entry port 1304 and / or the bypass exit port 1306 of the scent dial assembly 516 (e.g., the bypass outlet 1622 is generally sealed by the bypass sidewall 1302), as shown. Fig. 22Thus, the air bypass flow path 810 may not flow through the tray 518 and the odor dial assembly 516. In addition, the odor inlet 1606 and the odor outlet 1608 of the tray 518 are aligned with the inlet 906 and the outlet 1108 of the odor dial assembly 516, as shown in FIG. Fig.23 , so that substantially all of the air will flow through the fragrance passage 808 of the scent dial assembly 516, as shown in FIG. Fig.24 Shown as a whole in .

[0146] Figure 25 to Figure 27 The scent dial assembly 516 is generally shown in a minimum intensity position. In the minimum intensity position, the bypass inlet 1620 of the tray 518 is aligned with the bypass entry port 1304 of the scent dial assembly 516, and the bypass outlet 1622 of the tray 518 is aligned with the bypass exit port 1306 of the scent dial assembly 516, as shown in FIG. Fig.25 Thus, the air bypass flow path 810 may pass through the tray 518 and the scent dial assembly 516. In addition, the scent inlet 1606 and the scent outlet 1608 of the tray 518 may not be aligned with the inlet 906 and the outlet 1108 of the scent dial assembly 516, as shown in FIG. Fig.26 As shown in the figure as a whole, minimal or no air will flow through the fragrance passage 808 of the scent dial assembly 516, as shown in the figure as a whole, Fig. 27 Shown as a whole in FIG.

[0147] Figures 28 to 30 The scent dial assembly 516 is generally shown in a first intermediate intensity position. In the first intermediate intensity position, the bypass inlet 1620 and the bypass outlet 1622 of the tray 518 are partially aligned with the bypass entry port 1304 and the bypass exit port 1306 of the scent dial assembly 516, as shown in FIG. Fig.28 Thus, the air bypass flow path 810 can flow through the tray 518 and the scent dial assembly 516. In addition, the scent inlet 1606 and the scent outlet 1608 of the tray 518 are partially aligned with the inlet 906 and the exit 1108 of the scent dial assembly 516, as shown in FIG. Fig.29 As shown in the figure as a whole, some air will flow through the fragrance passage 808 of the scent dial assembly 516, such as Fig.30 Shown as a whole in FIG.

[0148] Figure 31 to Figure 33The scent dial assembly 516 is generally shown in a second intermediate intensity position. In the second intermediate intensity position, the bypass inlet 1620 and / or the bypass outlet 1622 of the tray 518 are not aligned with the bypass entry port 1304 and / or the bypass exit port 1306 of the scent dial assembly 516 (e.g., the bypass outlet 1622 is generally sealed by the bypass sidewall 1302), as shown. Fig.31 Thus, the air bypass flow path 810 may not flow through the tray 518 and the odor dial assembly 516. In addition, the odor inlet 1606 and the odor outlet 1608 of the tray 518 are partially aligned with the inlet 906 and the outlet 1108 of the odor dial assembly 516, as shown in FIG. Fig.32 As shown in the figure as a whole, some air will flow through the fragrance passage 808 of the scent dial assembly 516, such as Fig.33 Shown as a whole in FIG.

[0149] It should be understood that the surface cleaning devices and nozzles described herein may include any surface cleaning devices and nozzles known to those skilled in the art, including but not limited to upright vacuums, cordless vacuums, stick vacuums, stick vacuums, canister vacuums, robotic vacuums, and the like.

[0150] Although the principles of the present disclosure have been described herein, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that this description is intended only as an example and not as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. In addition to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein, other embodiments are also contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the surface cleaning device may embody any one or more of the features contained herein, and these features may be used in any specific combination or sub-combination. Modifications and substitutions by one of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure, and the scope of the present invention is limited only by the claims.

Claims

1. An odor dial assembly, comprising: The dial body comprises: a barrel comprising one or more side walls extending upwardly from a base, the one or more side walls comprising an inlet and an outlet; and a cap configured to be removably coupled to the cartridge to at least partially form a fragrance chamber; and A fragrance disc comprising a fragrance body and a passage extending through the fragrance body, the fragrance disc being configured to be received within the fragrance cavity and secured to the dial body such that the passage of the fragrance body is aligned with the inlet and outlet of the one or more side walls to form a fragrance passage extending through the dial body and the fragrance disc, and wherein movement of the dial body causes corresponding movement of the fragrance disc.

2. The odor dial assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The cylinder comprises: one or more bypass skirts extending downwardly from the base; one or more bypass inlet ports and bypass exit ports forming an air bypass flow path; as well as One or more dividing walls separate the one or more bypass inlet ports and the bypass exit port.

3. The odor dial assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The one or more bypass skirts extend around at least a portion of a periphery of the base of the barrel.

4. The odor dial assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The bypass skirt extends around only a portion of the bottom of the barrel.

5. The odor dial assembly of claim 1, wherein: The scent scale dial assembly further includes one or more resilient detent rods configured to engage one or more detent grooves formed in the scent scale dial organizer tray, wherein the interaction between the one or more detent grooves and the one or more detent rods corresponds to different strength positions of the scent scale dial assembly relative to the scent scale dial organizer tray.

6. The odor dial assembly of claim 1, wherein: The entry port includes an entry port width and an entry port height, wherein the entry port height varies across the entry port width.

7. The odor dial assembly of claim 6, wherein: The entry port height is smaller near one or more ends of the entry port width than between the ends of the entry port width.

8. The odor dial assembly of claim 7, wherein: The entry port height is greater near the middle of the entry port than near the ends of the entry port width.

9. The odor dial assembly of claim 6, wherein: The passageway of the fragrance disc has a cross-section corresponding to the cross-section of the inlet opening.

10. The scent dial assembly of claim 1, wherein: The cap further includes a stand configured to form a seal with the scent scale dial organizer tray.

11. The odor dial assembly of claim 10, wherein: The scaffold generally extends radially outwardly away from the one or more sidewalls of the barrel when the cap is coupled to the barrel.

12. The scent dial assembly of claim 1, wherein: The cap further includes one or more locking grooves configured to engage with one or more locking protrusions associated with the scent scale dial organizer tray.

13. The odor dial assembly of claim 12, wherein: The one or more locking grooves are configured to urge the scent scale dial assembly into engagement with the scent scale dial organizer tray to substantially seal the scent scale dial assembly to the scent scale dial organizer tray while also allowing the scent scale dial assembly to rotate.

14. The odor dial assembly of claim 13, wherein: At least a portion of the one or more locking grooves has a ramp profile.

15. The scent dial assembly of claim 12, wherein: The one or more locking grooves are formed in a side wall of the cap that generally extends around at least a portion of a periphery of a top surface of the cap.

16. The scent dial assembly of claim 12, wherein: The one or more locking grooves include a plurality of locking grooves, wherein each locking groove includes a locking groove access opening, the locking groove access openings being asymmetrically arranged around the cap such that the locking groove access openings align with the locking protrusion in only a single orientation.

17. The scent dial assembly of claim 16, wherein: The locking groove access openings have different sizes and / or shapes.

18. The scent dial assembly of claim 1, wherein: The cap includes one or more ribs configured to extend downwardly from a top surface of the cap into the fragrance chamber.

19. The odor dial assembly of claim 18, wherein: The one or more ribs are configured to substantially limit movement of the fragrance disc within the fragrance chamber.

20. The scent dial assembly of claim 18, wherein: The one or more ribs are configured to prevent the fragrance disc from being inserted upside down.

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