Vacuum cleaner comprising waste separation and collection device provided with dust bag

Abstract

The vacuum cleaner (2) comprises: a body (3) comprising a suction end piece (4); a gripping handle (31); a waste separation and collection device (6) comprising a receiving compartment (7) open upwards and provided with an access opening, a dust collector bag housed in the receiving compartment (7), and a closing cover (14) mounted so as to be movable on the upper portion of the body (3) between a closed position in which the closing cover (4) closes the access opening (13) and an open position in which the closing cover (4) opens the access opening (13), in the open position, the closing cover (14) releases the access opening (13); and a suction motor (26) configured to generate an air flow through the suction end piece (4) and the waste separation and collection device (6).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of vacuum cleaners allowing the extraction of dust and waste present on a surface to be cleaned, which may be, for example, a tiled floor, a parquet floor, a laminate floor, a rug or a carpet. Background Art

[0002] Document CN211633083U describes a portable vacuum cleaner comprising:

[0003] a main body comprising a suction tip arranged in a front portion of the main body and through which air can be sucked in by the cleaner;

[0004] - a grip handle mechanically connected to the body;

[0005] a waste separation and collection device fluidically connected to the suction end-piece, the waste separation and collection device comprising: a receiving compartment arranged on the main body and comprising an access opening; a cleaner bag configured to be at least partially accommodated in the receiving compartment and configured to be introduced into the receiving compartment via the access opening; and a closing hood mounted so as to be movable relative to the main body between a closed position, in which the closing hood closes the access opening and delimits the suction chamber together with the receiving compartment, and an open position, in which the closing hood releases the access opening and permits the cleaner bag to be inserted into or removed from the receiving compartment; and

[0006] - A suction motor housed in the body, the suction motor having a motor axis and configured to generate an air flow through the suction tip-piece and the waste separation and collection device.

[0007] According to document CN211633083U, the access opening is located at the front end of the body and the closing cover is mounted so as to be pivotable on the front end of the body.

[0008] Therefore, removing the vacuum cleaner bag from the storage compartment requires displacing the vacuum cleaner bag to a certain distance from the gripping handle and thus to a user who is firmly gripping the gripping handle, which may be difficult for some users.

[0009] Furthermore, when the cleaner bag is removed from the storage compartment, it rubs against the inner wall of the storage compartment, which may cause part of the waste contained in the cleaner bag to be discharged from the cleaner bag, thereby contaminating the user's hands or his environment. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The present invention aims to overcome all or part of these disadvantages.

[0011] The technical problem on which the present invention is based is, in particular, to provide a vacuum cleaner comprising a waste separation and collection device provided with a vacuum cleaner bag, which has a simple, reliable and ergonomic construction while limiting the risks of contamination of the user or his environment during the phases of removing or replacing the vacuum cleaner bag.

[0012] To this end, the present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner comprising:

[0013] - a main body comprising a suction end piece arranged in a front part of the main body and through which air can be sucked by the cleaner;

[0014] - a gripping handle mechanically connected to the body, the gripping handle being elongated and having a central longitudinal axis;

[0015] a waste separation and collection device fluidically connected to the suction end piece, the waste separation and collection device comprising: a receiving compartment, which is arranged on the main body and comprises an access opening; a dust cleaner bag, also called a dust bag, which is configured to be at least partially accommodated in the receiving compartment and to be introduced into the receiving compartment via the access opening; and a closing cover, which is mounted so as to be movable relative to the main body between a closed position, in which the closing cover closes the access opening and delimits a suction chamber together with the receiving compartment, and an open position, in which the closing cover releases the access opening and permits the vacuum cleaner bag to be inserted into or removed from the receiving compartment;

[0016] a suction motor housed in the body, the suction motor having a motor axis and configured to generate an air flow through the suction end-piece and the waste separation and collection device,

[0017] The closing cover is mounted to be movable on the upper part of the main body, the storage compartment opens upwardly and includes an upper peripheral edge that defines the access opening, and when the closing cover occupies the open position, the vacuum cleaner bag is configured to be inserted into and removed from the storage compartment through the top of the main body, and the middle longitudinal axis of the gripping handle intersects the suction chamber.

[0018] This configuration of the waste separation and collection device and the gripping handle, and in particular the arrangement of the storage compartment and the closure cover relative to the gripping handle, allows the user to easily remove the vacuum cleaner bag from the storage compartment. In fact, by holding the gripping handle with one hand, the user can easily access the closure cover and, with the other hand, move it to the open position, and then use the other hand to remove the vacuum cleaner bag from the storage compartment. Consequently, the vacuum cleaner according to the present invention has improved ergonomics compared to prior art vacuum cleaners.

[0019] Furthermore, this configuration of the storage compartment facilitates the introduction of the vacuum cleaner bag into the storage compartment by limiting the risk of wrinkling the vacuum cleaner bag and, by limiting the stresses exerted on the vacuum cleaner bag by the inner walls of the storage compartment, in particular when the vacuum cleaner bag is filled with waste and / or dust, significantly reduces the risk of waste or dust being emitted from the vacuum cleaner bag when the vacuum cleaner bag is removed from the storage compartment. Thus, the vacuum cleaner according to the invention limits the risk of contamination of the user and his or her environment during the stage of removing the vacuum cleaner bag.

[0020] Furthermore, such a configuration of the waste separation and collection device allows easy cleaning of the receiving compartment.

[0021] The vacuum cleaner may further have one or more of the following features, used alone or in combination.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the closure cover is accessible from above the vacuum cleaner. When a user holds the vacuum cleaner by means of the gripping handle, the closure cover is easily displaced towards the open position.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the invention, the vacuum cleaner is configured such that the displacement of the closure from the closed position to the open position includes at least one initial displacement phase, during which the closure is displaced by being lifted upwards to a position at a distance from the access opening, for example opposite the gripping handle. This configuration of the closure further facilitates handling the closure and thus facilitates replacing the vacuum cleaner bag accommodated in the suction chamber with another vacuum cleaner bag.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the invention, the access opening of the storage compartment is provided in an upper portion of the main body.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the invention, the access opening of the storage compartment is configured to be oriented upwards during a normal use phase of the vacuum cleaner.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the invention, the closing cover and the gripping handle are positioned opposite each other with respect to the motor axis.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the invention, the closure is mounted so as to be pivotable relative to the body about a pivot axis.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the invention, the closure is pivotably mounted on the body, advantageously on a lateral portion of the body.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the invention, the suction chamber has a central longitudinal axis.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the invention, the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber is substantially parallel to the motor axis and, for example, substantially coincides with the motor axis.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the invention, the suction chamber has a shape of revolution about the central longitudinal axis, such as a substantially cylindrical or truncated cone shape about the central longitudinal axis.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the invention, the closure and the gripping handle are positioned opposite each other with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the invention, the storage compartment is elongated and has a longitudinal axis, the pivot axis extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the storage compartment.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the invention, the longitudinal axis of the storage compartment is substantially parallel to the motor axis.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the invention, the pivot axis of the closure extends substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber, for example substantially parallel to the motor axis.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the invention, the pivot axis of the closure extends substantially along a longitudinal edge of the storage compartment.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the invention, the suction end piece has a central axis which is substantially parallel to the motor axis and / or the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber. Advantageously, the suction end piece is cylindrical in shape.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the invention, the central axis of the suction end piece coincides with the motor axis.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the invention, the vacuum cleaner comprises a locking device configured to reversibly lock the closure in the closed position. The presence of such a locking device prevents any accidental displacement of the closure towards the open position.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the locking device includes a locking member arranged on one of the main body and the closing cover and a locking element arranged on the other of the main body and the closing cover, the locking member being installed to be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the locking member is configured to cooperate with the locking element to lock the closing cover in the closed position when the closing cover occupies the closed position, and in the unlocked position, the locking member is configured to release the locking element and allow the closing cover to move toward the open position.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the invention, the pivot axis and the locking member are configured so as to be arranged on either side of a median longitudinal plane of the body when the closure occupies the closed position.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the invention, the pivot axis and the locking member are configured to be arranged on both sides of the storage compartment when the closure occupies the closed position. This arrangement of the locking member ensures that the closure is securely locked in the closed position.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the invention, the pivot axis of the closure cover extends substantially along a first longitudinal edge of the storage compartment, and the locking member is configured to be located near a second longitudinal edge of the storage compartment opposite to the first longitudinal edge when the closure cover occupies the closed position.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the invention, the vacuum cleaner comprises a peripheral sealing joint configured to be interposed between the upper peripheral edge of the storage compartment and the lower peripheral edge of the closure cover when the closure cover occupies the closed position. The presence of this peripheral sealing joint ensures optimal sealing of the suction chamber during the use phase of the vacuum cleaner.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the invention, the peripheral sealing joint is overmoulded onto the closure or onto the body.

[0046] According to another embodiment of the invention, the peripheral sealing joint is fixed to the closure or to the body by gluing or adhering.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the invention, the body comprises a suction duct which is fluidically connected to the suction terminal and which opens into the receiving compartment.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum cleaner comprises a support member, such as a support plate, which is arranged in the storage compartment and is configured to support and hold in place a fixed interface belonging to the vacuum cleaner bag, the support member comprising a storage location in which the fixed interface is detachably mounted. The presence of such a support member ensures that the vacuum cleaner bag is securely positioned in the suction chamber.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the support member includes a passage opening, and the passage opening is configured to be positioned facing the air inlet hole provided on the fixing interface when the fixing interface is stored in the storage position.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the support member includes two lateral guide rails, which are configured to extend on both sides of the fixing interface, for example, symmetrically on both sides of the fixing interface, and are configured to guide the fixing interface in translation when the fixing interface is inserted into or removed from the storage position. These arrangements facilitate the insertion of the vacuum cleaner bag into the storage compartment.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fixing interface is configured to be removed from the storage position according to a removal movement directed upwards, for example directed opposite to the gripping handle. These arrangements further facilitate removal of the vacuum cleaner bag from the storage compartment.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the storage position is opened upward.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the support member is mounted so as to be movable relative to the main body between an operating position and a bag replacement position, wherein the suction duct extends through the passage opening provided on the support member and, when the fixed interface is stored in the storage position, can extend through the air inlet hole provided on the fixed interface, and a bag replacement position, wherein the support member is located at a distance from the suction duct and, in the bag replacement position, the fixed interface can be inserted into or removed from the storage position. This configuration of the support member ensures that the vacuum cleaner bag can be easily removed from the storage compartment and at the same time ensures optimal positioning of the vacuum cleaner bag during the use phase of the vacuum cleaner.

[0054] According to one embodiment of the invention, the support member is configured to protrude from the storage compartment, for example when the storage compartment occupies the working position.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the two lateral guide rails are configured to protrude from the storage compartment when the support member occupies the bag replacement position. This configuration of the support member facilitates inserting the fixing interface of the vacuum cleaner bag into the storage position.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the invention, the support member is mounted so as to be pivotable relative to the body about a hinge axis. Advantageously, the hinge axis extends transversely, for example substantially perpendicularly, to the pivot axis of the closure.

[0057] According to one embodiment of the invention, the hinge axis of the supporting member is located in a lower part of the storage compartment, for example in the vicinity of the bottom of the storage compartment.

[0058] According to one embodiment of the invention, the suction duct is provided with an air outlet opening, which is oriented according to an orientation that is inclined relative to the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber and / or the motor axis. The air outlet opening can, for example, be configured to be oriented toward the closure when the closure occupies the closed position.

[0059] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the suction duct extends substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber and / or the motor axis and is provided with an air outlet opening which is oriented towards the suction motor.

[0060] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum cleaner comprises a locking device configured to reversibly lock the support member in the working position. The presence of such a locking device avoids any accidental displacement of the support member towards the bag changing position.

[0061] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the locking device includes at least one locking member, which is arranged on the main body and is configured to occupy a locking position and a release position. In the locking position, the at least one locking member cooperates with the support member and prevents the support member from being displaced toward the bag replacement position, and in the release position, the at least one locking member releases the support member and allows the support member to be displaced toward the bag replacement position.

[0062] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one locking member is elastically deformable between the locking position and the release position.

[0063] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the locking device comprises two locking members, which are provided on the body and are configured to be provided on both sides of the support member. Advantageously, the two locking members are configured to cooperate with two opposite lateral portions of the support member.

[0064] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the gripping handle is arranged in the rear part of the vacuum cleaner.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the invention, the gripping handle is located below the assembly formed by the storage compartment and the suction motor.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the gripping handle is located below the suction motor.

[0067] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the gripping handle is located at the rear of the storage compartment.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the invention, the suction motor is located rearward of the middle longitudinal axis of the gripping handle.

[0069] According to one embodiment of the invention, the middle longitudinal axis of the gripping handle is inclined relative to the motor axis.

[0070] According to one embodiment of the invention, the middle longitudinal axis of the gripping handle is inclined relative to the central axis of the suction end piece and / or the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber.

[0071] According to one embodiment of the invention, the middle longitudinal axis of the gripping handle is inclined relative to the central axis of the suction end piece and / or the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber at an inclination angle α of between 110° and 130°, advantageously between 120° and 130°, and for example about 123°.

[0072] According to one embodiment of the invention, the suction end-piece is arranged in the front part of the main body.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the invention, the storage compartment has a substantially semi-cylindrical shape.

[0074] According to one embodiment of the invention, the suction chamber comprises an air discharge opening fluidically connected to the suction motor. Advantageously, the air discharge opening is provided on the body.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the invention, the air discharge opening of the suction chamber is located opposite to the suction duct.

[0076] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum cleaner further comprises a filter element, the filter element being arranged in the suction chamber and upstream of the air discharge opening, the filter element being configured to filter the air flow passing through the air discharge opening. Advantageously, the filter element is configured to be located downstream of the vacuum cleaner bag, the vacuum cleaner bag being located in the suction chamber.

[0077] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum cleaner comprises a rechargeable battery, and the rechargeable battery is configured to supply power to the vacuum cleaner.

[0078] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the gripping handle is provided between the rechargeable battery and the receiving compartment.

[0079] According to one embodiment of the invention, the rechargeable battery forms the lower part of the vacuum cleaner and the storage compartment at least partially forms the upper part of the vacuum cleaner. The suction motor is advantageously substantially aligned with the storage compartment and at least partially forms the upper part of the vacuum cleaner.

[0080] According to one embodiment of the invention, the rechargeable battery is housed in a battery housing which is connected, for example fixed, to the grip handle, more specifically to its lower portion. In a configuration in which the grip handle is located below the storage compartment housing the cleaner bag and extends in a direction opposite to the access opening (opposite to the closure) relative to the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber, the placement of the rechargeable battery in the lower portion of the grip handle and the consequent arrangement of the grip handle between the rechargeable battery and the storage compartment (preferably with the central longitudinal axis of the grip handle extending in a direction between 60° and 120° relative to the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber) allows limiting or eliminating moments which would tend to cause the cleaner to swing forward or backward when the user holds the cleaner with one hand. As a result, the user can hold the cleaner in a horizontal position, i.e. with the access opening pointing upwards, with less force, for example with a first hand, in order to more easily enter and remove the cleaner bag with a second hand.

[0081] According to one embodiment of the invention, the gripping handle forms a middle portion of the cleaner, the middle portion extending between the storage compartment and the rechargeable battery.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum cleaner comprises a column, which is substantially parallel to the gripping handle and extends between the battery housing and the main body.

[0083] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum cleaner is a portable vacuum cleaner, also called a handheld vacuum cleaner.

[0084] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum cleaner bag comprises a filter enclosure and a fixing interface, wherein the fixing interface is provided with an air inlet hole leading to the filter enclosure.

[0085] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fixing interface is rigid or semi-rigid. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0086] In any case, the invention will become clear from the following description made with reference to the accompanying drawing which shows, by way of non-limiting example, one embodiment of the vacuum cleaner.

[0087] Figure 1 is a perspective front view of a vacuum cleaner according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0088] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional top view of a vacuum cleaner;

[0089] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A side view of a vacuum cleaner;

[0090] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional top view of a vacuum cleaner, wherein a closing cover belonging to the vacuum cleaner has been removed;

[0091] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional rear view of a vacuum cleaner with a closing cover of the vacuum cleaner removed;

[0092] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A partial three-dimensional top view of a vacuum cleaner;

[0093] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A longitudinal sectional view of a vacuum cleaner;

[0094] Figure 8 It is a partial perspective top view of a vacuum cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0095] In this document, the terms "front", "rear", "upper", "lower", "high", "above" and "below" are defined with respect to the use of the vacuum cleaner, during which a user holds the vacuum cleaner by gripping the handle and holds it essentially horizontally, and the suction end piece provided on the main body is positioned relative to the user, with the central axis of the suction end piece being in a horizontal position.

[0096] Figures 1 to 7 A vacuum cleaner 2 is shown, more particularly a handheld vacuum cleaner, comprising a main body 3 including a suction end piece 4, through which air can be sucked by the vacuum cleaner 2 and to which, for example, a suction attachment (not shown in the figures) can be connected. Advantageously, the suction end piece 4 is arranged in the front part of the main body 3.

[0097] The vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a suction duct 5 which is fluidly connected to the suction end piece 4 and a waste separation and collection device 6 which is fluidly connected to the suction duct 5 .

[0098] The waste separation and collection device 6 more specifically comprises a storage compartment 7, such as a storage cavity, provided on the main body 3, and a dust collector bag 8 configured to be at least partially housed in the storage compartment 7. The dust collector bag 8 more specifically comprises a filter enclosure 9 and a fixing interface 11 provided with an air inlet hole 12 leading to the filter enclosure 9. Advantageously, the fixing interface 11 is rigid or semi-rigid.

[0099] according to Figures 1 to 7 In the embodiment shown, the suction duct 5 opens into the storage compartment 7, more specifically into the front portion thereof, and the storage compartment 7 comprises an upper peripheral edge defining an access opening 13 through which the cleaner bag 8 can be introduced into or removed from the storage compartment 7. Advantageously, the access opening 13 is provided in the upper portion of the body 3 and is configured to be oriented upwards during the normal use phase of the vacuum cleaner 2. In other words, the storage compartment 7 opens upwards.

[0100] The waste separation and collection device 6 further comprises a closing cover 14 which is arranged on the upper part of the body 3 and is mounted so as to be movable relative to the body 3 between a closed position and an open position in which the closing cover 14 closes the access opening 13 and defines, together with the receiving compartment 7, a suction chamber 15 (see FIG. Figure 7 ), in which open position the closure 14 releases the access opening 13 and permits the cleaner bag 8 to be inserted into or removed from the storage compartment 7. Advantageously, the closure 14 is configured to be displaced into the open position by being lifted upwards.

[0101] according to Figures 1 to 7 In the embodiment shown, the closure 14 is hingedly mounted on the body 3 , more specifically on a lateral portion thereof, by a pivot connection defining a pivot axis A extending substantially along the longitudinal edge of the storage compartment 7 .

[0102] More specifically, Figure 1 and Figure 4As shown, the storage compartment 7 has a substantially semi-cylindrical shape, and the closing cover 14 also has a substantially semi-cylindrical shape, so that the suction chamber 15 has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0103] The vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a locking device 16 configured to reversibly lock the closure 14 in the closed position. The locking device 16 comprises a locking member 17 provided on the closure 14 and a locking element 18 provided on the body 3 and configured to cooperate with the locking member 17.

[0104] The locking member 17 is more specifically mounted to be movable, for example pivotable, between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which, when the closure 14 occupies the closed position, the locking member 17 is configured to cooperate with the locking element 18 to lock the closure 14 in the closed position, and an unlocked position in which the locking member 17 is configured to release the locking element 18 and allow the closure 14 to be displaced toward the open position.

[0105] according to Figures 1 to 7 In the embodiment shown, the pivot axis A and the locking member 17 are configured so as to be arranged on either side of the median longitudinal plane of the body 3, more specifically on either side of the storage compartment 7, when the closure 14 occupies the closed position. Advantageously, the pivot axis A of the closure 14 extends along a first longitudinal edge of the storage compartment 7, and the locking member 17 is configured so as to be located near a second longitudinal edge of the storage compartment 7, opposite the first longitudinal edge, when the closure 14 occupies the closed position.

[0106] The vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a peripheral sealing joint 19 configured to be interposed between the upper peripheral edge of the storage compartment 7 and the lower peripheral edge of the closure 14 when the closure 14 occupies the closed position.

[0107] according to Figures 1 to 7 In the embodiment shown, the peripheral sealing joint 19 is fixed to the body 3 and extends over the entire length of the upper peripheral edge of the body 3. The peripheral sealing joint 19 may be fixed to the body 3, for example, by overmolding or by gluing or adhering.

[0108] The vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a support member 21 , such as a support plate, which is provided in the storage compartment 7 and is configured to support and hold the fixing interface 11 of the vacuum cleaner bag 8 in place when the vacuum cleaner bag 8 is stored in the storage compartment 7 .

[0109] according to Figures 1 to 7In the illustrated embodiment, the support member 21 includes: a storage position 22, where the fixing interface 11 is detachably mounted; and a passage opening 23, which is configured to face the air inlet hole 12 provided on the fixing interface 11 when the fixing interface 11 is stored in the storage position 22.

[0110] The support member 21 is more specifically mounted so as to be pivotable relative to the main body 3 about a hinge axis B and between a working position, in which the suction duct 5 extends through a passage opening 23 provided on the support member 21 and is able to extend through an air inlet hole 12 provided on the fixed interface 11 when the fixed interface 11 is stored in the storage position 22, and a bag change position, in which the support member 21 is located at a certain distance from the suction duct 5 and in which the fixed interface 11 can be inserted into or removed from the storage position 22.

[0111] Advantageously, the hinge axis B extends transversely and, for example, substantially perpendicularly, to the pivot axis A of the closure 14 and is situated in the lower part of the storage compartment 7 , for example near the bottom of the storage compartment 7 .

[0112] according to Figures 1 to 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the support member 21 includes two lateral guide rails 24 that are configured to extend on either side of the fixing interface 11, for example, symmetrically on both sides of the fixing interface 11, and are configured to guide the fixing interface 11 in translation when the fixing interface 11 is inserted into or removed from the storage position 22. Advantageously, the fixing interface 11 is configured to be removed from the storage position 22 according to an upwardly directed removal movement. In other words, the storage position 22 opens upward.

[0113] The support member 21 may for example be configured to protrude from the storage compartment 7 at least when the storage compartment 7 occupies the working position. Advantageously, the two lateral guides 24 are configured to protrude from the storage compartment 7 when the support member 21 occupies the bag changing position.

[0114] like Figure 6 As shown, the vacuum cleaner 2 advantageously comprises a locking device configured to reversibly lock the support member 21 in the working position.

[0115] according to Figures 1 to 7In the illustrated embodiment, the locking device includes two locking members 25, which are provided on the main body 3 and are configured to be provided on both sides of the support member 21. The two locking members 25 are more specifically configured to occupy a locking position and a release position, in which the two locking members 25 respectively cooperate with two opposite lateral portions of the support member 21 and prevent the support member 21 from being displaced toward the bag replacement position, and in which the two locking members 25 release the support member 21 and permit the support member 21 to be displaced toward the bag replacement position.

[0116] Advantageously, each locking member 25 is elastically deformable between a locking position and a release position and is provided with a stop surface configured to cooperate with a rear surface of the support member 21 , ie a surface of the support member 21 oriented opposite the suction end piece 4 .

[0117] like Figure 3 As shown, the vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a suction motor 26 having a motor axis C and housed in the main body 3. The suction motor 26 is configured to generate an air flow through the suction end piece 4, the suction duct 5 and the waste separation and collection device 6. The suction motor 26 more specifically comprises a ventilator and an electric motor configured to drive the ventilator in rotation.

[0118] according to Figures 1 to 7 In the embodiment shown, the suction chamber 15 has a central longitudinal axis which is substantially parallel to the motor axis C. However, according to an embodiment of the invention, the motor axis C may be inclined relative to the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber 15 .

[0119] Advantageously, the pivot axis A of the closure 14 extends substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber 15, and the suction end piece 4 is cylindrical in shape and has a central axis D substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber 15. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the central axis D of the suction end piece 4 substantially coincides with the motor axis C.

[0120] according to Figures 1 to 7 In the embodiment shown, the suction duct 5 is provided with an air outlet opening 27 oriented according to an orientation direction that is inclined relative to the motor axis C. The air outlet opening 27 can, for example, be configured to be oriented toward the closure 14 when the closure 14 occupies the closed position. However, according to an embodiment of the invention, the suction duct 5 can extend substantially parallel to the motor axis C, and the air outlet opening 27 of the suction duct 5 can be oriented toward the suction motor 26.

[0121] according to Figures 1 to 7In the illustrated embodiment, the suction chamber 15 includes an air discharge opening 28 provided on the body 3, the air discharge opening 28 being positioned opposite the suction duct 5 and being fluidically connected to the suction motor 26. Advantageously, the vacuum cleaner 2 further includes a filter element 29 provided in the suction chamber 15 and upstream of the air discharge opening 28, the filter element 29 being configured to filter the air flow passing through the air discharge opening 28. Advantageously, the filter element 29 is configured to be located downstream of the cleaner bag 8 located in the suction chamber 15.

[0122] The vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a gripping handle 31 which is mechanically connected to the main body 3 and allows the vacuum cleaner to be gripped by a user. The gripping handle 31 may be manufactured in one piece with the main body 3 or may be attached to the main body 3.

[0123] Advantageously, a grip handle 31 is provided in the rear part of the vacuum cleaner 2 , in particular behind the storage compartment 7 , and below the suction motor 26 .

[0124] according to Figures 1 to 7 In the embodiment shown, the gripping handle 31 is elongated and has a central longitudinal axis E that intersects the suction chamber 15 and is inclined at an angle α of between 110° and 130°, advantageously between 120° and 130°, and for example about 123°, relative to the motor axis C. Advantageously, the suction motor 26 is located behind the central longitudinal axis E of the gripping handle 31 .

[0125] The vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a rechargeable battery 32 configured to supply power to the vacuum cleaner, in particular to the suction motor 26. The rechargeable battery 32, also referred to as a battery pack, comprises a plurality of battery cells. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the gripping handle 31 is arranged between the rechargeable battery 32 and the storage compartment 7, and the rechargeable battery 32 forms the lower part of the vacuum cleaner 2, the storage compartment 7 and the suction motor 26 form the upper part of the vacuum cleaner 2, and the gripping handle 31 forms the middle part of the vacuum cleaner 2, which extends between the storage compartment 7 and the rechargeable battery 32.

[0126] The rechargeable battery 32 is advantageously housed in a battery housing 33 connected to the grip handle 31, more specifically to the lower portion of the grip handle 31. Advantageously, the vacuum cleaner 2 comprises a column 34 extending substantially parallel to the grip handle 31 and between the battery housing 33 and the body 3.

[0127] In a configuration in which the gripping handle 31 extends below the storage compartment 7 housing the cleaner bag 8 and in a direction opposite to the access opening 13 (opposite to the closure 14) relative to the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber 15, the fact that the rechargeable battery 32 is located in a lower position of the gripping handle 31, and therefore the fact that the gripping handle is disposed between the rechargeable battery 32 and the storage compartment 7, allows limiting or eliminating the moment that would tend to swing the cleaner forward or backward when the user holds the cleaner 2 with one hand. As a result, the user can use less force, for example, to hold the cleaner 2 in a horizontal position with the first hand, that is, with the access opening 13 facing upwards, so as to more easily enter and remove the cleaner bag 8 with the second hand.

[0128] The vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises an electronic control unit (not visible in the figure) which is configured to control the operation of the vacuum cleaner 2. Advantageously, the electronic control unit is housed in the body 3. In particular, Figure 2 As shown, the vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a control button 35 which is configured to control, inter alia, the activation of the suction motor 26 when the control button 16 is actuated by a user.

[0129] Figure 8 A second embodiment of a vacuum cleaner 2 according to the invention is shown, which differs from the first embodiment mainly in that a peripheral sealing joint 19 is fixed to the closing cover 14, for example by overmolding, and in that the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber 15 substantially coincides with the motor axis C.

[0130] Of course, the invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described and shown, given by way of example. Modifications can be made, in particular from the point of view of the construction of the various elements or by substitution of technically equivalent ones, without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A vacuum cleaner (2), comprising: a main body (3) comprising a suction end piece (4) arranged in the front part of the main body (3) and through which air can be sucked by the cleaner (2); - a gripping handle (31) mechanically connected to the body (3), the gripping handle (31) being elongated and having a central longitudinal axis (E); a waste separation and collection device (6) fluidically connected to the suction end piece (4), the waste separation and collection device (6) comprising: a receiving compartment (7) arranged on the body (3) and comprising an access opening (13); a dust collector bag (8) configured to be at least partially accommodated in the receiving compartment (7) and configured to be introduced into the receiving compartment (7) via the access opening (13); and a closing hood (14) mounted so as to be movable relative to the body (3) between a closed position and an open position, in which the closing hood (4) closes the access opening (13) and delimits a suction chamber (15) together with the receiving compartment (7), and an open position in which the closing hood (14) releases the access opening (14) and permits the dust collector bag (8) to be inserted into or removed from the receiving compartment (7); a suction motor (26) housed in the body (3), the suction motor (26) having a motor axis (C) and configured to generate an air flow through the suction end-piece (4) and the waste separation and collection device (6), Characterized in that the closing hood (14) is mounted so as to be movable on the upper part of the main body (3), and the storage compartment (7) opens upwards and includes an upper peripheral edge defining the access opening (13), and when the closing hood (14) occupies the open position, the vacuum cleaner bag (8) is configured to be inserted into and removed from the storage compartment (7) through the top of the main body (3), and the middle longitudinal axis (E) of the gripping handle (31) intersects the suction chamber (15).

2. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 1 is configured so that the displacement of the closing hood (14) from the closed position to the open position includes at least one initial displacement phase, during which the closing hood (14) is displaced to a certain distance from the access opening (13) by being lifted upward.

3. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The closing cover (14) and the gripping handle (31) are positioned relative to each other with respect to the motor axis (C).

4. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The suction chamber (15) has a central longitudinal axis.

5. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 4, wherein: The suction chamber (15) has a shape of revolution about the central longitudinal axis.

6. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The closure (14) is mounted to pivot relative to the body (3) about a pivot axis (A).

7. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 4 and 6, wherein: The pivot axis (A) of the closure (14) extends substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the suction chamber (15).

8. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 6 and 7, wherein: The pivot axis (A) of the closure (14) extends substantially along a longitudinal edge of the storage compartment (7).

9. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a locking device (16) configured to reversibly lock the closure (14) in the closed position.

10. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 9, wherein: The locking device (16) comprises a locking member (17) provided on one of the main body (3) and the closing cover (14) and a locking element (18) provided on the other of the main body (3) and the closing cover (14), the locking member (17) being mounted to be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which, when the closing cover (14) occupies the closed position, the locking member (17) is configured to cooperate with the locking element (18) to lock the closing cover (14) in the closed position, and in the unlocked position, the locking member (17) is configured to release the locking element (18) and permit the closing cover (14) to be displaced toward the open position.

11. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to claims 6 and 10, wherein The pivot axis (A) and the locking member (17) are configured to be arranged on both sides of the storage compartment (7) when the closure (14) occupies the closed position.

12. A vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising a peripheral sealing joint (19), which is configured to be inserted between the upper peripheral edge of the storage compartment (7) and the lower peripheral edge of the closing cover (14) when the closing cover (14) occupies the closed position.

13. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The peripheral sealing joint (19) is overmolded onto the closure (14) or the body (3).

14. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: The body (3) comprises a suction duct (5) which is fluidically connected to the suction end-piece (4) and which opens into the receiving compartment (7).

15. A vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising a support member (21), the support member (21) being arranged in the storage compartment (7) and being configured to support and hold in place a fixed interface (11) belonging to the vacuum cleaner bag (8), the support member (21) comprising a storage position (22), the fixed interface (11) being detachably mounted in the storage position (22).

16. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 15, wherein The support member (21) includes a passage opening (23) configured to be positioned facing an air inlet hole (12) provided on the fixing interface (11) when the fixing interface (11) is stored in the storage position (22).

17. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The support member (21) includes two lateral guide rails (24), which are configured to extend on both sides of the fixing interface (11) and are configured to guide the fixing interface (11) in translation when the fixing interface (11) is inserted into the storage position (22) or removed from the storage position (22).

18. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 16 or 17 in combination with claim 14, wherein: The support member (21) is mounted so as to be movable relative to the main body (3) between a working position and a bag replacement position, wherein the suction duct (5) extends through the passage opening (23) provided on the support member (21) and is capable of extending through the air inlet hole (12) provided on the fixed interface (11) when the fixed interface (11) is accommodated in the accommodation position (22), and wherein the support member (21) is located at a certain distance from the suction duct (5) and wherein the fixed interface (11) is capable of being inserted into or removed from the accommodation position (22).

19. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 18, comprising a locking device configured to reversibly lock the support member (21) in the working position.

20. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein: The gripping handle (31) is located below the assembly formed by the storage compartment (7) and the suction motor (26).

21. The vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, being a portable vacuum cleaner.

Images