Accessory tool for vacuum cleaner

Abstract

An accessory tool for a vacuum cleaner includes: a body including a suction chamber; a slit suction nozzle on the body, the slit suction nozzle comprising a suction inlet leading to the suction chamber; and a wiping tool on a lower side portion of the body. The wiping tool has an outer friction surface configured to rub against the surface to be cleaned, and the tool can be used by causing the wiping tool to wipe back and forth on the surface to be cleaned in a direction substantially along the wiping axis, and causing the wiping tool to saw back and forth on the surface to be cleaned in a direction substantially along the sawing axis.

Description

[0001] Cross-citation of related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 648,759, filed May 17, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Vacuum cleaners have one or more cleaning heads with inlets leading to an air path for cleaning surfaces. One type of cleaning head is a floor base adapted to move across the floor surface. Another type is an attachment tool. Vacuum cleaners are typically equipped with various types of attachment tools for cleaning areas inaccessible to the floor base of a regular vacuum cleaner, or for specialized cleaning operations. Attachment tools are usually attached to the vacuum cleaner via an auxiliary flexible vacuum hose and / or a rigid rod.

[0004] Removing pet hair from surfaces is a cleaning operation for which specialized attachment tools have been developed. Pet hair often gets embedded in upholstery, making removal particularly difficult. Many attachment tools are ineffective at removing hair embedded in upholstery because the hair tends to clump together as the tool passes over the surface. Solutions that mitigate this can improve hair removal from firm, cushioned surfaces, but problems remain when removing hair from compressible surfaces such as pet beds and pillows or surfaces with complex geometries such as cat towers. Providing an attachment tool that can effectively remove pet hair from the wide variety of surfaces commonly found in the home remains a challenge for the floor cleaning industry. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An accessory tool for a vacuum cleaner is provided, which has improved features for cleaning pet fur.

[0006] In one aspect of this disclosure, an accessory tool includes: a body including a suction chamber; an attachment extending from the body and in fluid communication with the suction chamber; a crevice nozzle located on the body, the crevice nozzle including a first suction port leading to the suction chamber; and a wiping tool located on a lower portion of the body, the wiping tool including a wall disposed below the crevice nozzle and the suction chamber, the wall including an external friction surface configured to rub against a surface to be cleaned, the wiping tool having a wiping axis and a sawing axis, wherein the wiping axis defines a first direction of intended movement of the wiping tool, the sawing axis being generally transverse to the wiping axis and defining a second direction of intended movement of the wiping tool, wherein the length of the wall along the sawing axis is greater than the length along the wiping axis.

[0007] In another aspect, the wiping tool has a flexible, curved and hollow shape and has one or more walls that can be bent to conform to the surface to be cleaned.

[0008] In yet another aspect, the wiping tool has protruding features for improving pet hair removal by increasing friction with the surface to be cleaned and / or providing surfaces having various different orientations so as to engage the surface to be cleaned at a variety of different angles.

[0009] In still another aspect, the wiping tool is made of a material that facilitates pet hair removal.

[0010] These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of the specific embodiments, read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning apparatus or floor cleaner having an accessory tool according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 is Figure 1 is a perspective view of the accessory tool in

[0013] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the accessory tool taken through line III-III in Figure 2

[0014] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the accessory tool taken through line IV-IV in Figure 2

[0015] Figure 5 is a bottom view of the accessory tool;

[0016] Figure 6 is a close-up front view of the accessory tool in Figure 1

[0017] Figure 7 is an exploded view of the accessory tool in Figure 1

[0018] Figure 8 is a view showing the operation of the accessory tool cleaning a surface of a soft cushion sofa pad in a wiping motion;

[0019] Figure 9 is a view showing the operation of the accessory tool cleaning between sofa pads in a sawing motion;

[0020] Figure 10 is a perspective view of an accessory tool according to another aspect of the present disclosure; ​​​​

[0021] Figure 11 is a perspective view of an accessory tool according to yet another aspect of the disclosure; and

[0022] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the accessory tool taken through line XII-XII in Figure 11 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] An accessory tool having improved pet hair cleaning features is described below. The accessory tool has an outer rubbing surface configured to rub against a surface to be cleaned, which can have: (1) a flexible, curved, and hollow shape, and one or more walls that can bend to conform to the surface to be cleaned; (2) protruding features to increase pet hair removal by increasing the rubbing force against the surface to be cleaned and / or providing surfaces with various orientations to engage the surface to be cleaned at a variety of angles; (3) a material that facilitates pet hair removal; or any combination of the above features. As just one example, the accessory tool can be used in a wiping motion or a sawing motion to release pet hair from the surface to be cleaned and draw the pet hair into an air path inside the accessory tool. For more detailed cleaning, the accessory tool can have a slot nozzle.

[0024] As can be appreciated from the description herein, the accessory tool has a variety of uses, but is generally used as an accessory tool for removing pet hair, fur, and other debris not limited to fur or hair from soft cushion surfaces, compressible surfaces, and / or surfaces with complex geometries, including but not limited to sofas, chairs, cushions, pillows, pet beds, and cat towers. The accessory tool is also suitable for use on non-soft cushion surfaces, and can also be used for general vacuum cleaning. At least some aspects of the accessory tool provided herein function through its various elements, which can be used in a wiping motion or a sawing motion depending on the contours of the surface to be cleaned, as described below. Pet hair can be removed from larger soft cushion surfaces by using a wiping motion, while pet hair can be removed from slots and corners by using a sawing motion. By providing an accessory tool having one or more features disclosed herein, pet hair can be quickly and efficiently removed from all areas of indoor furnishings, compressible surfaces, and / or surfaces with complex geometries. Thus, certain features of the surface cleaning device can be considered functional, but can also be implemented in different aesthetic configurations.

[0025] In Figure 1In the exemplary embodiment shown in the drawings, like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the several views, and an accessory tool is shown and generally designated 10. As will be discussed in further detail below, the accessory tool 10 has various features and improvements, including improved pet hair cleaning features for removing pet hair and other debris, not limited to pet hair, from soft cushion surfaces and from tight spaces of indoor furnishings, such as spaces between sofa cushions or spaces in corners. Generally, as used herein, the term "debris" includes pet hair, pet dander, dirt, dust, stains, mud, and other debris.

[0026] For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal", "inner", "outer", and derivatives thereof shall relate to the application as Figure 1 The orientation of the accessory tool 10, as viewed from the perspective of a user holding the tool 10 in a single hand, is associated with the orientation in

[0027] Referring to Figures 2-3 , the accessory tool 10 includes a body 12, a crevice nozzle 14, and a wiping tool 16, wherein the body can be coupled to a vacuum cleaner. As shown, the tool 10 includes a first end 18 including the crevice nozzle 14, a second end 20 including an air outlet 22, and an underside 24 between the first end 18 and the second end 20, wherein the wiping tool 16 is located on the underside 24. With both the crevice nozzle 14 and the wiping tool 16, the accessory tool 10 is a multi-functional or combination tool having multiple cleaning functions, as will be described in further detail below.

[0028] Referring to Figures 3-4 , the body 12 includes a suction chamber 28. The suction chamber 28 is adapted to be in fluid communication with a source of suction, such as a source of suction of a vacuum cleaner or other surface cleaning apparatus. The air outlet 22 forms an outlet of the suction chamber 28.

[0029] The crevice nozzle 14 defines a first suction inlet 26 to the suction chamber 28. The first suction inlet 26 includes at least one opening in the crevice nozzle 14 through which pet hair and other debris can be drawn in. An internal flow path Fl is defined within the suction chamber 28 of the body 12 and is located between the first suction inlet 26 and the air outlet 22.

[0030] The wiping tool 16 can define a second suction inlet 30. The second suction inlet 30 includes at least one opening in the wiping tool 16 through which pet hair and other debris can be drawn in. A second internal flow path F2 is defined within the body 12 and is located between the second suction inlet 30 and a passageway 34 leading to the suction chamber 28, such that the two flow paths F1, F2 join at a location within the body 12 of the tool 10 upstream of the air outlet 22.

[0031] The first suction inlet 26 can be located at the first end 18 of the tool 10, and the second suction inlet 30 can be located on the underside of the wiping tool 16, such that the inlets 26, 30 are oriented in different planes. Thus, pet hair and other debris can be drawn into the tool 10 at two locations spaced apart from one another.

[0032] Generally, the tool 10 has a longitudinal axis X and a transverse axis Y. The first end 18 and the second end 20 of the tool 10 are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis X. As shown, the tool 10 includes a first side 36 and a second side 38, and the transverse axis Y is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X and extends through the sides 36, 38. Further, the wiping tool 16 can be offset relative to the longitudinal axis X along a third vertical axis Z that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y.

[0033] The tool 10 can be used by wiping the wiping tool 16 back and forth over a surface to be cleaned in a direction generally along the transverse axis Y (also referred to herein as the wiping axis), and sawing the wiping tool 16 back and forth over the surface to be cleaned in a direction generally along the longitudinal axis X (also referred to herein as the sawing axis). One example of a wiping action is shown in Figure 8 , and one example of a sawing action is shown in Figure 9 . Thus, the transverse or wiping axis Y defines a first direction of intended movement of the wiping tool 16, and the longitudinal or sawing axis X defines a second direction of intended movement of the wiping tool 16. Further, the tool 10 can be used by moving the slot nozzle 14 over a surface to be cleaned, such as by holding the tool 10 at an angle such that the first suction inlet 26 is against or close to the surface to be cleaned.

[0034] The wiping tool 16 includes a wall 40 disposed below the slot nozzle 14 and the suction chamber 28. The wall 40 includes an outer friction surface 42 configured to rub against the surface to be cleaned when the tool 10 is wiped back and forth along the axis Y or sawed back and forth along the axis X. The outer friction surface 42 can have a physical shape, flexibility, and / or material that facilitates the removal of pet hair, for example, by dragging the wiping tool 16 back and forth over the surface to be cleaned with pressure and pulling out embedded pet hair and other debris from the surface. The wiping and / or sawing action can gather the pet hair or other collected material into a clump that can then be removed with a vacuum suction force through one or both of the suction ports 26, 30. The flexibility of the outer friction surface 42 (through the curvature of the wall 40) enables the wiping tool 16 to conform to the contours of the surface to be cleaned, thereby improving the pet hair removal effect.

[0035] With reference to Figure 5 , the wall 40 can be elongated along the sawing axis X, for example, the wall has a greater dimension along the sawing axis X than along the wiping axis Y. Correspondingly, the outer friction surface 42 of the wall 40 can be generally elongated along the sawing axis X, for example, having a length greater than a width. Thus, the wiping tool 16 covers a greater surface area when wiped back and forth along the wiping axis Y than when sawed back and forth along the sawing axis X. The narrow shape enables the wiping tool 16 to access narrow spaces when sawed back and forth, such as between couch cushions.

[0036] The wall 40 can at least partially define a bottom of the wiping tool 16. In addition to the wall 40, the wiping tool 16 can include side walls 44, 46 and front and rear end walls 48, 50, respectively, where the side walls 44, 46 and end walls 48, 50 overhang the underside of the body 12 and the wall 40 connects the side walls 44, 46 and end walls 48, 50. The side walls 44, 46 are oriented toward the first and second side faces 36, 38, respectively, of the tool 10. The front and rear end walls 48, 50 are oriented toward the first and second end portions 18, 20, respectively, of the tool 10. The respective walls 40, 44, 46, 48, 50 can be connected to one another by rounded corners to minimize turbulent airflow and / or avoid sharp corners that can collect hair or other debris.

[0037] The side walls 44, 46 can converge toward one another in a downward direction generally along the vertical axis Z, as shown in Figure 4 , that is, the side walls 44, 46 extend downwardly and inwardly to connect with the bottom wall 40. The side walls 44, 46 of the wiping tool 16 can provide a more extensive and flexible way to clean certain surfaces and provide a greater contact area when in contact with those surfaces, and can have such an outer surface as the wall 40 that is configured to rub against the surface to be cleaned when the tool 10 is wiped back and forth along the axis Y or sawed back and forth along the axis X.

[0038] One or more of the walls 40, 44, 46, 48, 50 of the wiping tool 16 is flexible and can be bent inward to conform to a surface to be cleaned. For example, the bottom wall 40 can generally be able to bend upward toward the axis X, the side walls 44, 46 can generally be able to bend inward toward the axis Z, and / or the end walls 48, 50 can generally be able to bend inward toward the axis Z. The flexibility of the wiping tool 16 enables the wiping tool 16 to conform to curved surfaces, such as curved arms of a soft cushion sofa.

[0039] The second suction inlet 30 can extend equidistant on both sides of the wiping axis Y and / or on both sides of the sawing axis X so that the tool 10 performs equally well when moved in both directions along the axes X, Y.

[0040] The second suction inlet 30 can be defined by the wall 40. The second suction inlet 30 can be defined by at least one airflow opening. In the illustrated embodiment, the second suction inlet 30 includes a plurality of airflow openings 52. The wall 40 can have cross-ribs 54 to separate adjacent airflow openings 52 and to stiffen the wiping tool 16 so that the second suction inlet 30 does not collapse when the wiping tool 16 is moved along the wiping axis Y.

[0041] The airflow openings 52 are narrow and elongated, i.e., their long axis is generally parallel to the sawing axis X. The airflow openings 52 are relatively small in size compared to the size of the suction chamber 28, which ensures an increased air speed through the airflow openings 52. In some embodiments, the corners of the airflow openings 52 can be rounded to minimize turbulent airflow and / or to avoid sharp corners that can collect hair or other debris.

[0042] In some embodiments, the slot nozzle 14 can have an intake end 58 in which the suction inlet 26 is located. The intake end 58 can protrude beyond the front end wall 48 of the wiping tool 16 so that the intake end 58 can be inserted into a narrow or confined space. To enable the accessory tool 10 to be held in a comfortable and ergonomic position with the first inlet 26 generally lying flat against a surface to be cleaned, the intake end 58 can be angled. For example, the intake end 58 can lie in a plane that intersects the sawing axis X and that intersects the wiping axis Y.

[0043] The slot nozzle 14 is shown as a generally linear component with a linear intake end 58, but other shapes of the slot nozzle 14 are possible. At least the intake end 58 of the slot nozzle 14 can be narrow and elongated, i.e., the width dimension of the intake end along the wiping axis Y is smaller than the height dimension along the vertical axis Z.

[0044] Various configurations are possible for integrating the slot nozzle 14 into the tool 10. In one embodiment, the slot nozzle 14 is integrally formed with the body 12 at the first end 18 of the tool 10. In other embodiments, the slot nozzle 14 is a separate component that is attached to the body 12.

[0045] The attachment tube 60 extends from the body 12 and is configured to selectively connect to a portion of a vacuum cleaner, such as a hose and / or wand of a vacuum cleaner. At least a portion of the attachment tube 60 is hollow to define a portion of the flow path Fl of the tool 10. The attachment tube 60 can be slightly tapered and dimensioned to slide into (or around) a hose and / or wand of a vacuum cleaner and be retained thereon or therein by a friction fit. Alternatively, a conventional bayonet fitting, screw fitting, snap connection, or other fitting can be used for this purpose.

[0046] Various configurations are possible for integrating the attachment tube 60 into the tool 10. In one embodiment, the attachment tube 60 is integrally formed with the body 12. In another embodiment, the attachment tube 60 is a separate component that is attached to the body 12. The attachment tube 60 is shown as a generally cylindrical component having a circular profile, but other shapes of the attachment tube 60 are possible.

[0047] The attachment tube 60 can be rotationally fixed to the body 12 or can be pivotable relative to the body 12. For example, the attachment tube 60 can be mounted to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the attachment tube 60.

[0048] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the wiping tool 16, or at least the outer frictional surface 42 of the wiping tool 16, is made of a rubber or other elastomeric material that facilitates frictional gripping and / or electrostatic attraction of pet hair and that has a suitable flexibility so as to bend without permanently deforming when in contact with the ground or with each other. Non-limiting examples of other suitable elastomers are nitrile rubber, polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic rubber (TPR), and silicone. These materials can be used to grip pet hair or debris and gather it into a clump that can then be removed with a vacuum suction force through either of the inlets 26, 30. Furthermore, these materials are elastic such that the wiping tool 16 can deform to fit into tight spaces and other difficult-to-clean areas. Other materials for the wiping tool 16 are possible as long as they exhibit the hair collection capabilities and elasticity disclosed herein.

[0049] In some embodiments, one or more of the body 12, the slot nozzle 14, and the attachment tube 60 can be substantially rigid, i.e., not elastic or flexible, as compared to the wiping tool 16.

[0050] The wiping tool 16 can include protruding features that enhance pet hair removal by increasing friction with the surface to be cleaned and / or providing surfaces with various orientations to engage the surface to be cleaned at a variety of different angles. The protruding features can extend from the bottom wall 40 or other outer surface of the wiping tool 16 and can form at least a portion of the outer friction surface 42 of the wiping tool 16. Some non-limiting examples of protruding features are a plurality of protrusions, a plurality of serrations, a blade with or without serrations and / or protrusions, or any combination thereof.

[0051] Various configurations for integrating the protruding features with the wiping tool 16 are possible. In one embodiment, the protruding features are integrally formed with the wall 40 or other outer surface of the wiping tool 16. In other embodiments, the protruding features are one or more separate components that are attached to the wall 40 or other outer surface of the wiping tool 16.

[0052] Referring to Figures 5-6 In one embodiment, the wiping tool 16 has a blade 62 extending from the wall 40. The blade 62 has a serrated edge forming a plurality of triangular teeth or serrations 66 through triangular notches 64. The blade 62 is elongated in the direction of the sawing axis X, and the serrations 66 are arranged in a row in the direction generally along the sawing axis X. The blade 62 can extend along the side of the suction inlet 30, and the serrations 66 can extend fully or partially along the length of the suction inlet 30.

[0053] The wiping tool 16 can have more than one blade 62. In the illustrated embodiment, the wiping tool 16 has a first blade 62 located on one side of the suction inlet 30 and a second blade 62 located on the other side of the suction inlet 30. The blades 62 are shown spaced apart from the inlet 30 outwardly in the direction generally along the wiping axis Y. In another embodiment, the blades 62 can extend from and define the inlet 30.

[0054] Each blade 62 can include an inner surface 68 and an outer surface 70 Figure 6 , with the inner surface 68 facing the suction inlet 30 and / or the inner surface 68 of the other blade 62, and the outer surface 70 facing away from the suction inlet 30 and / or the other blade 62. Each blade 62 also includes a front surface 72 and a back surface 74 Figure 5 and a bottom end surface 76 that can be defined by one or more ends of the serrations 66.

[0055] The minimum length of the blade 62 (i.e., the minimum distance between the front surface 72 and the back surface 74) is greater than the height of the blade 62 (i.e., the distance between the wall 40 and the tip surface 76) and also greater than the thickness of the blade 62 (i.e., the distance between the inner surface 68 and the outer surface 70). In some embodiments of the tool 10, the ratio of the minimum blade length to the blade height is at least 5: 1, alternatively at least 10: 1. In some embodiments of the tool 10, the ratio of the minimum blade length to the blade thickness is at least 10: 1, alternatively at least 20: 1. The height of the blade 62 can be at least 5 mm, and / or the thickness of the blade 62 can be at least 3 mm, alternatively 5 mm or less, in order to facilitate effective use of the blade 62 to remove pet hair and other debris.

[0056] In addition to the serrated blade 62, the wiping tool 16 can have a plurality of protrusions 78 extending from the wall 40. One or more of the protrusions 78 can include a protruding body including a base 80 and a tip 82, where the protruding body extends along an axis 84 through the center of the base 80 and the tip 82. Each protrusion 78 has a length defined as the distance along the axis 84 between the base 80 where it lies at the surface of the wall 40 and the tip 82.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusions 78 can include one or more tapered or generally tapered bodies, e.g., tapering from a rounded base 80 to a smaller rounded or pointed tip 82. It is contemplated that the protrusions 78 can have alternative configurations, e.g., rounded cylindrical, triangular, square, linear, polygonal, irregular, uniform, non-uniform, and / or tapered.

[0058] The protrusions 78 can have a generally smooth outer surface as shown in the figures. In other embodiments, the protrusions 78 can have a textured outer surface.

[0059] The dimensions of the protrusions 78, including their relative length and / or thickness, can vary between the protrusions 78. Having different sizes of protrusions 78 on the wiping tool 16 can facilitate the removal of different types of pet hair on different types of upholstery, such that the tool 10 is effective for different combinations of fur type and cushion material. In one example, the relative length of the protrusions 78 can increase toward the middle of the wiping tool 16 and can correspondingly decrease toward the ends 18, 20 of the tool 10. The protrusions 78 having a length greater than a thickness tend to slightly bend or deform along the protrusion axis 84 when dragged along a surface to be cleaned. This individual bending of the protrusions 78 enables the protrusions 78 to remain in contact with the surface to be cleaned as the user drags the wiping tool 16 along that surface. Note that for tapered protrusions 78, the thickness of the protrusion 78 is the diameter normal to the protrusion axis 84.

[0060] In some embodiments of tool 10, the ratio of protrusion length to protrusion thickness is in the range of about 0.5:1 to about 3:1. Figures 5-6 In the embodiment of the tool 10 with varying protrusion lengths shown, the ratio of protrusion length to protrusion thickness is approximately 3:1 at the middle of the wiping tool 16, and approximately 0.5:1 towards the ends 18, 20 of the tool 10. The protrusion 78 may be at least 2 mm long and / or at least 5 mm thick to facilitate effective use of the protrusion 78 to remove pet hair and other debris. Generally, if serrations are present, the protrusion 78 is wider and / or larger than the serrations 66.

[0061] The wiping tool 16 may have more than one set of protrusions 78. In the illustrated embodiment, the wiping tool 16 has a plurality of first protrusions 78 located on one side of the suction port 30 and a plurality of second protrusions 78 located on the other side of the suction port 30. The plurality of protrusions 78 are shown as being spaced outward from the inlet 30 in a direction generally along the wiping axis Y. If serrations are present, the protrusions 78 may be laterally located outside the serrations 66.

[0062] Multiple protrusions 78 can be arranged in multiple rows, which are oriented in a direction generally along the sawing axis X. The multiple rows of protrusions 78 can extend along the side of the suction port 30 and extend completely or partially along the length of the suction port 30.

[0063] Although this document discusses the use of a scraper 62 as part of a larger tool, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the wiping tool 16 may have multiple teeth or serrations 66, independent of the presence of a scraper. Embodiments of the tool 10 may also have serrations 66 without protrusions, or protrusions 78 without serrations. However, the combination of serrations 66 and protrusions 78 has been found to be effective because both serrations and protrusions on the tool 10 can help remove different types of fur from different types of upholstery, making the tool 10 effective for different combinations of fur types and upholstery materials.

[0064] refer to Figures 3-4 In one embodiment of tool 10, wall 40 is curved and forms a circular bottom end of tool 10. The circular bottom end allows wiping tool 16 to maintain contact with a recessed and / or compressible surface to be cleaned. Due to the circular bottom wall 40, movement of tool 10 in a sawing or wiping motion causes the outer friction surface 42 to abut against the surface to be cleaned in both directions of movement along the axis X or Y.

[0065] Wall 40 may be rounded from front to back and / or from side to side. For example, from... Figure 3As can be seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6, the wall 40 can be curved such that the wall curves away from Z in the X-Z plane defined by the sawing axis X and the vertical axis Z. As can be seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 7, the wall 40 can additionally be curved such that the wall curves away from Z in the Y-Z plane defined by the wiping axis Y and the vertical axis Z. This dual curvature of the wall 40 helps maintain the outer friction surface 42 in contact with the surface to be cleaned as the tool 10 is moved back and forth along the axis Y in a wiping motion and / or along the axis X in a sawing motion. Figure 4 As can be seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 7, the wall 40 can additionally be curved such that the wall curves away from Z in the Y-Z plane defined by the wiping axis Y and the vertical axis Z. This dual curvature of the wall 40 helps maintain the outer friction surface 42 in contact with the surface to be cleaned as the tool 10 is moved back and forth along the axis Y in a wiping motion and / or along the axis X in a sawing motion.

[0066] In one embodiment, the protrusions 78 and / or the saw teeth 66 are disposed on both sides of the vertical axis Z in the X direction and the Y direction. As a result of the protrusions 78 and / or the saw teeth 66 on the dual curved bottom wall 40, the tool 10 performs equally well in both directions along the axes X, Y when moved in a sawing motion or a wiping motion.

[0067] With reference to FIG. 6, Figures 5-6 the wall 40 can at least partially define a bottom outer surface 86 of the wiping tool 16. In addition, the wall can define lateral outer surfaces 88, 90 that curve outwardly from the bottom outer surface 86 and connect the side walls 44, 46. The outer surfaces 86, 88, 90 can form part of the outer friction surface 42 that is configured to rub against the surface to be cleaned as the tool 10 is moved back and forth along the axis Y in a wiping motion or along the axis X in a sawing motion.

[0068] The protruding features can extend from any one or a combination of the outer surfaces 86, 88, 90 of the wall 40. In one embodiment, the blade 62 can extend from the bottom outer surface 86, a plurality of first protrusions 78 can extend from the first lateral outer surface 88, and a plurality of second protrusions 78 can extend from the second lateral outer surface 90.

[0069] Figure 7 is an exploded view of the accessory tool 10. In one embodiment, the tool body 12 includes the crevice nozzle 14 and the attachment tube 60, wherein the crevice nozzle 14 and the attachment tube 60 are formed as one piece with the tool body 12.

[0070] A frame 94 for reinforcing the wiping tool 16 can be provided on the lower side 24 of the tool body 12. An elongated opening 92 leading to the suction chamber 28 Figure 3 ) can be defined at a lower end of the frame 94, and the frame has at least one side wall that can support one or more walls of the wiping tool 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 94 has side walls 96, 98 and front and rear end walls 100, 102, wherein the side walls 96, 98 correspond to and support the side walls 44, 46 of the wiping tool 16, and the end walls 100, 102 correspond to and support the end walls 48, 50 of the wiping tool 16.

[0071] Frame 94 can have at least one crossbeam 104 transverse to the sawing axis X, the outer surface of crossbeam 104 facing the inner surface of wiping tool 16. For example, crossbeam 104 can face or alternatively be in contact with the transverse ribs 54 of wall 40, thereby supporting wiping tool 16 such that wall 40 does not invert when wiping tool 16 is pressed against the surface to be cleaned. Crossbeam 104 can extend generally parallel to wiping axis Y and transverse to sawing axis X. Figure 3

[0072] In one embodiment, walls 40, 44, 46, 48, 50 of wiping tool 16 can form a cup-shaped lid that is attached to tool body 12 to enclose the elongated opening 92 to suction chamber 28. Thus, elongated opening 92 provides passage 34 between the interior of wiping tool 16 (e.g., defined by walls 40, 44, 46, 48, 50 forming the cup-shaped lid) and the interior of tool body 12. Other shapes of wiping tool 16 are possible.

[0073] In some embodiments, wall 40 can be formed as one piece with side walls 44, 46 and end walls 48, 50. For example, each wall 40, 44, 46, 48, 50 can be made from an elastomeric plastic material using an injection molding process, such as but not limited to being made as a single-piece cup-shaped lid from an elastomeric plastic material.

[0074] Various configurations for integrating wiping tool 16 into tool 10 are possible. In one embodiment, wiping tool 16 can have a flange 106 that mates with a flange 108 of tool body 12. Flange 108 of tool body extends outwardly over frame 94 such that wiping tool 16 is inserted over frame 94 to bring flanges 106, 108 together in mating contact. In one embodiment, flange 108 can define lower side 24 of tool 10 on which wiping tool 16 is located.

[0075] A bracket 110 can hold mating flanges 106, 108 together, for example using fasteners (not shown) installed through the bracket and flanges 106, 108. Bracket 110 can have an opening through which wall 40 of wiping tool 16 is inserted to mount bracket 110 on the lower side of wiping tool flange 106, with a portion of bracket 110 extending upwardly alongside mating flanges 106, 108. Bracket 110 is shown as a generally linear member having a linear opening, but other shapes of bracket 110 are possible.

[0076] ​In some embodiments, the tool 10 has a handle 112 that makes holding the tool 10 more comfortable and secure. The handle 112 can be disposed on the upper side of the body 12, or in other locations on the tool 10 that are comfortable for holding the tool 10. As the handle is located on the upper side of the tool body 12, the wiping tool 16 is disposed below the handle 112.

[0077] The handle 112 can cover at least the top side of the body 12, and can further cover the sides of the body 12. The handle 112 can also cover a portion of the gap nozzle 14.

[0078] The handle 112 can be elongated along the sawing axis X, and have a curved shape that allows the user to employ a hinged action when wiping the tool 10 back and forth along the wiping axis Y. By hinging the tool 10, a first side is used for a wiping pass, while a second side is used for a return wiping pass.

[0079] Various configurations for integrating the handle 112 into the tool 10 are possible. In one embodiment, the handle 112 is a separate component that is attached to the body 12. The handle can have a flange 114 that engages with the flange 108 of the tool body 12, and can be held to the flange of the tool body by the bracket 110 and / or fasteners (not shown). In other embodiments, the handle 112 is integrally formed with the body 12.

[0080] Reference is now made to Figures 8-9 wherein the operation of the accessory tool 10 is shown and described in greater detail. Figure 8 The operation of the accessory tool 10 to clean the surface of a soft cushion sofa pad 116 in a wiping motion is shown. Figure 9 The operation of the accessory tool 10 to clean the gap 118 between sofa pads 116 in a sawing motion is shown. The wiping tool 16 can be dragged across the surface to be cleaned, for example, when the user is cleaning the surface of the sofa pads 116 as shown in Figure 8 The wiping tool 16 can also be sawed along the surface to be cleaned, for example, when the user is cleaning the gap 118 between sofa pads 116 as shown in Figure 9 The wiping tool 16 will remove, trap and gather pet hair and other debris into a clump that can be used by hand or removed with vacuum suction through the gap nozzle 14 or wiping tool 16.

[0081] Figure 1A floor cleaner 120 including an accessory tool 10 is shown. The floor cleaner 120 can be a vacuum cleaner that can be used to clean hard surfaces, such as tile and hardwood, and soft surfaces, such as carpet, area rugs, and upholstery. The floor cleaner 120 can include at least one cleaning system, including a vacuum cleaning system for recovering debris, which can include pet hair, hair, dirt, dust, stains, soil, and other debris, from a surface to be cleaned.

[0082] The illustrated floor cleaner 120 is an upright vacuum cleaner having an upright assembly 122 pivotally mounted to a cleaning head or base 124. One end of the upright assembly 122 can include a handle 126 to facilitate movement by a user. The upright assembly 122 can have a suction source 130, which can be a vacuum fan / motor assembly, and which is configured to generate a working airflow through a working air path of the vacuum cleaner 120 that extends from a "dirty" air inlet to a "clean" air outlet. The suction source 130 can form a portion of the working air path. In addition, the base 124 includes a suction mouth 128 in fluid communication with the suction source 130.

[0083] The upright assembly 122 has a separation and collection assembly 132 for separating hair and other debris from the working airflow. The separation and collection assembly 132 is shown herein as including a cyclonic module having a cyclonic separator for separating entrained debris from the working airflow and a collection chamber for collecting the separated debris. It should be appreciated that other types of dirt separation and collection assemblies can be used, such as a centrifugal separator or a bulk separation. In yet another conventional arrangement, the filtration system can include a filter bag. Regardless of its configuration, the filtration system can form a portion of the working air path through the floor cleaner 120.

[0084] The vacuum hose 134 can form at least a portion of the working air path to the separation and collection assembly 132. The accessory tool 10 is configured to operably couple with the vacuum cleaner 120 and can couple with the vacuum hose 134 that is in fluid communication with the suction source 130. For example, one end 136 of the vacuum hose 134 can be selectively disconnected from the vacuum cleaner 120 and connected to the accessory tool 10 for cleaning using the accessory tool 10, while the other end (not shown) remains in fluid communication with the separation and collection assembly 132. When the accessory tool 10 is in use and the end 136 of the vacuum hose 134 is coupled with the accessory tool 10, the accessory tool 10 can form a "dirty" air inlet for the working air path of the vacuum cleaner 120. Thus, the floor cleaner 120 can draw dirt-laden air through the accessory tool 10 and the hose 134 into a filtration system, such as the separation and collection assembly 132, where the dirt is captured for subsequent disposal. When the accessory tool 10 is not in use, the end 136 of the vacuum hose 134 is connected to the floor cleaner 120 and the suction nozzle 128 can form the "dirty" air inlet. Alternatively, the accessory tool 10 can be selectively connected to a wand (not shown) that is coupled with the vacuum hose 134, rather than directly to the vacuum hose 134.

[0085] It is noted that while the floor cleaner 120 is shown as an upright device, it is understood that the functional systems of the floor cleaner 120 can be arranged in any desired configuration, such as a portable device adapted to be hand-held by a user, a canister device having a cleaning tool connected to a wheeled base by a vacuum hose, or a commercial device. Any of the above-described cleaners can be adapted to include a flexible vacuum hose and / or a rigid wand that can form part of the conduit between the nozzle and the suction source.

[0086] Figure 10 is a perspective view of an accessory tool 10A in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, wherein like elements are indicated with like reference numerals with the letter "A". The accessory tool 10A is similar to the accessory tool 10 described above with reference to FIGS. 1-6, except that the accessory tool 10A has a closed bottom wall 40A. The wiping tool 16A does not have a suction inlet and is closed to the incoming airflow. The suction inlet 26A of the slot nozzle 14A can be the only air inlet for the tool 10A. Figures 1-8 The accessory tool 10 described above is substantially similar, except that the accessory tool 10 has a closed bottom wall 40. The wiping tool 16 does not have a suction inlet and is closed to the incoming airflow. The suction inlet 26 of the slot nozzle 14 can be the only air inlet for the tool 10.

[0087] In operation, the tool 10A can be used in a wiping motion or a sawing motion to release pet hair or other material from the surface to be cleaned using the wiping tool 16A, optionally, to gather the pet hair or other collected material into a mass, which can then be removed with a vacuum suction through the suction inlet 26A of the slot nozzle 14A.

[0088] Figures 11-12An accessory tool 10B is shown in accordance with yet another aspect of the disclosure, wherein like elements are indicated with like reference numerals with the letter "B". The accessory tool 10B is substantially similar to the reference Figures 1-8 The described accessory tool 10 is substantially similar, except that the wiping tool 16B is free of additional structure, e.g., is free of protrusions and serrations. The wiping tool 16B can have a flat outer surface, e.g., the walls 40B have a substantially smooth outer friction surface 42B.

[0089] The wiping tool 16B is overmolded on a portion of the tool body 12B to integrate the wiping tool 16B with the tool body 12B. For example, one or more of the walls 40B, 44B, 46B, 48B, 50B of the wiping tool 16B can be overmolded on the frame 94B. In the illustrated embodiment and as can be seen from the perspective view of Fig. 2B, at least the side walls 44B, 46B of the wiping tool 16B are overmolded on the side walls 96B, 98B of the frame 94B, wherein the material of the wiping tool 16B extends upward on the inwardly facing surfaces of the side walls 96B, 98B. Figure 12

[0090] In yet another aspect of the disclosure and with reference to Figures 1-3 The accessory tool 10 according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein can include a flow divider (not shown) located between the first and second internal flow paths. The flow divider can for example comprise a valve body housed in the tool body 12 and can be selectively displaced between a first position in which the flow divider air outlet is arranged in fluid communication with the first suction inlet 26 of the slot nozzle 14 and the second flow path F2 is closed or blocked, and a second position in which the flow divider air outlet is arranged in fluid communication with the second suction inlet 30 of the wiping tool 16 and the first flow path Fl is closed or blocked.

[0091] In yet another aspect of the disclosure and with reference to Figures 1-3 The accessory tool 10 according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein can include an illuminating member (not shown) for illuminating the surface to be cleaned. The illuminating member can for example be located at the slot nozzle 14 or at other locations of the first end portion 18 of the tool 10 so that the user can more easily see hard-to-reach areas. The illuminating member can comprise any suitable light-emitting element, such as a light-emitting diode (LED).

[0092] ​The accessory tool 10 described herein can be used with a suction source, including a cleaning device, such as the floor cleaner described, to form a system for cleaning and removing pet hair. In addition, the wiping tool 16 can be used with a cleaning head, such as the base 124 for the vacuum cleaner 120, in addition to the accessory tool 10. Further, it is understood that the accessory tool 10 described herein can be used in a method of removing pet hair.

[0093] The terms "comprise" or "comprising" are used herein in their broadest sense to mean and encompass the notions of "include," "include but not limited to," "have," "have since" and "consist of." The use of "for example," "for instance," "such as," and "including" to list illustrative examples does not limit to only the listed examples. Thus, "for example" or "such as" means "for example but not limitations" or "such as but not limitations," and encompasses other similar or equivalent examples.

[0094] The above description relates to specific and general embodiments of the present disclosure. Various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and more general aspects of the disclosure which are set forth in the appended claims. Accordingly, the disclosure is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of all embodiments of the disclosure. It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise numerous alternative arrangements without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as there set forth, and that the exemplary nature of the embodiments should be at times understood within that frame. Any reference to an element herein using a designation such as "one," "each," and "the" are used in common sense to mean "one or more" and "at least one." Any reference to an element herein using a designation such as "one," "each," and "the" are used in common sense to mean "one or more" and "at least one."

[0095] Also, it is to be understood that the appended claims are not limited to the specific embodiments described in the specific embodiments, which can vary in modifications in the specific embodiments, which also fall within the scope of the appended claims. With respect to any Markush groups relied upon herein, it is intended that individual members of the groups can be present one at a time, or in the alternative, in mixtures of two or more members. A mixture of members of a Markush group is intended to be a mixture of individual members of the group, e.g. a mixture of two or more members of the Markush group, not a mixture of a Markush group with one or more additional Markush groups. Moreover, it is not intended that individual members of a Markush group be present exclusively in mixtures with one or more additional Markush groups, as a Markush group can comprise a mixture of two or more members of the group.

Claims

1. An accessory tool for a vacuum cleaner, comprising: a body including a suction chamber; an attachment tube extending from the body, the attachment tube being in fluid communication with the suction chamber; a slot nozzle located on the body, the slot nozzle including a first suction inlet to the suction chamber; and a wiping tool located on an underside of the body, the wiping tool including a wall disposed below the slot nozzle and the suction chamber, the wall including an outer rubbing surface configured to rub against a surface to be cleaned; the wiping tool having a wiping axis defining a first direction of intended movement of the wiping tool and a sawing axis generally transverse to the wiping axis and defining a second direction of intended movement of the wiping tool; wherein a length of the wall along the sawing axis is greater than a length along the wiping axis. the wall includes a bottom wall of the wiping tool, and the wiping tool includes spaced apart first and second side walls and includes front and rear end walls, wherein the bottom wall connects the first and second side walls and connects the front and rear end walls.

2. The accessory tool of claim 1, wherein, the bottom wall is circularly arcuate in at least one of a front-to-rear and a side-to-side direction.

3. The accessory tool of claim 2, wherein, the bottom wall defines a bottom outer surface and first and second lateral outer surfaces that curve outwardly from the bottom outer surface and connect the first and second side walls.

4. The accessory tool of claim 2, wherein, the wiping tool includes a second suction inlet to the suction chamber.

5. The accessory tool of claim 1, wherein, 6. The accessory tool of claim 5, including at least one of a plurality of serrations and a plurality of protrusions disposed on the wall adjacent the second suction inlet. a plurality of serrations are disposed outwardly of the second suction inlet, and wherein a plurality of protrusions are disposed outwardly of the plurality of serrations.

7. The accessory tool of claim 5, wherein, 8. The accessory tool of claim 5, including at least one of a plurality of serrations and a plurality of protrusions on the wall, the at least one being disposed on opposite sides of the second suction inlet, spaced apart from the second suction inlet and extending outwardly from the wall. the at least one of the plurality of serrations and the plurality of protrusions are disposed in a plurality of rows located on opposite sides of the second suction inlet and spaced apart from the second suction inlet, the plurality of rows including a first row on a first side of the second suction inlet and a second row on a second side of the second suction inlet.

9. The accessory tool of claim 8, wherein, the at least one of the plurality of serrations and the plurality of protrusions are spaced apart from one another in a direction generally along the sawing axis.

10. The accessory tool of claim 1, comprising at least one of a plurality of serrations and a plurality of protrusions on the wall, wherein, the wiping tool includes a cup-shaped cover located on the body, the cup-shaped cover including a plurality of flexible walls.

11. The accessory tool of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, 12. The accessory tool of any one of claims 1 to 10, including at least one squeegee extending from the wall, the squeegee being elongate in a direction of the sawing axis and including a plurality of serrations. ​ 13. The accessory tool of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The body includes a frame on the underside of the body for stiffening the wiping tool, wherein the frame includes at least one crossbeam transverse to the sawing axis, an outer surface of the crossbeam being in contact with an inner surface of the wiping tool.

14. The accessory tool of any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a handle on an upper side of the body, wherein, The wiping tool is arranged below the handle, wherein the handle is elongate along the sawing axis.

15. An accessory tool for a vacuum cleaner, comprising: a body including a suction chamber; an attachment tube extending from the body, the attachment tube being in fluid communication with the suction chamber; and a wiping tool on an underside of the body, the wiping tool comprising: a wall arranged below the suction chamber, the wall including an outer friction surface configured to rub against a surface to be cleaned; a suction inlet through the wall, the suction inlet being in fluid communication with the suction chamber; a plurality of serrations on the outer friction surface adjacent to the suction inlet, the plurality of serrations extending outwardly from the wall; and a plurality of protrusions on the outer friction surface adjacent to the suction inlet, the plurality of protrusions extending outwardly from the wall; the wiping tool having a wiping axis and a sawing axis, wherein the wiping axis defines a first direction of intended movement of the wiping tool, the sawing axis being generally transverse to the wiping axis and defining a second direction of intended movement of the wiping tool; wherein a length of the wall along the sawing axis is greater than a length along the wiping axis; and wherein at least one of the plurality of serrations and the plurality of protrusions are spaced apart from one another in a direction generally along the sawing axis.

16. The accessory tool of claim 15, wherein, The wall includes a bottom wall of the wiping tool, and the wiping tool includes spaced apart first and second side walls, and includes front and rear end walls, wherein the bottom wall connects the first and second side walls and connects the front and rear end walls.

17. The accessory tool of claim 16, wherein, The bottom wall is rounded in at least one of a front-to-rear and a side-to-side direction.

18. The accessory tool of claim 16, wherein, The bottom wall defines a bottom outer surface and defines first and second side outer surfaces that curve outwardly from the bottom outer surface and connect the first and second side walls.

19. The accessory tool of any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein: the plurality of serrations includes: a first set of serrations on a first side of the suction inlet; and a second set of serrations on a second side of the suction inlet opposite the first side; and the plurality of protrusions includes: a first set of protrusions on the first side of the suction inlet; and a second set of protrusions on the second side of the suction inlet.

20. The accessory tool of any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein, At least some of the plurality of serrations are arranged outside of the suction inlet, and wherein at least some of the plurality of protrusions are arranged outside of the plurality of serrations.

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