Vacuum cleaner duct equipped with hinge device

Abstract

The vacuum cleaner duct (5) comprises: first and second rigid duct portions (7, 8); a hinge arrangement (9) configured to allow the first and second rigid duct portions (7, 8) to pivot between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration; and a flexible conduit (15) fluidly connecting the first and second rigid conduit portions (7, 8), the flexible conduit (15) comprising a flexible tubular portion (19), a first securing ring (21) secured to a first end of the flexible tubular portion (19) and configured to be removably secured to the first rigid conduit portion (7), and a second securing ring (22) secured to a second end of the flexible tubular portion (19) and configured to be removably secured to the second rigid conduit portion (8). And a second securing ring (22) secured to a second end of the flexible tubular portion and configured to be removably secured to the second rigid conduit portion (8).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vacuum cleaner tubing, and more particularly to vacuum cleaners equipped with such vacuum cleaner tubing. Background Technology

[0002] Vacuum cleaners are known to include a vacuum cleaner housing equipped with a suction unit, a nozzle configured to contact the floor to be cleaned, and a vacuum cleaner tubing that fluidly and mechanically connects the vacuum cleaner housing to the nozzle and defines an airflow passage.

[0003] To facilitate the storage of the vacuum cleaner or the use of the vacuum cleaner to clean under furniture, the vacuum cleaner tubing advantageously includes: - First rigid pipe section and second rigid pipe section - A flexible conduit connecting the first and second rigid conduit portions and at least partially defining the airflow passage, the flexible conduit including a flexible tubular portion, a first retaining ring fixed to a first end of the flexible tubular portion and non-removably fixed to the first rigid conduit portion, and a second retaining ring fixed to a second end of the flexible tubular portion and non-removably fixed to the second rigid conduit portion. - A hinged device connecting first and second rigid pipe sections to each other, the hinged device including a hinge axis and configured to allow the first rigid pipe section to pivot relative to the second rigid pipe section about the hinge axis between an unfolded configuration in which the first and second rigid pipe sections are substantially aligned with each other and a folded configuration in which the first and second rigid pipe sections define an angle of less than 180° between each other. - A locking member configured to reversibly lock the first and second rigid pipe sections in the deployed configuration.

[0004] When using this type of vacuum cleaner tubing, waste sucked in through the nozzle connected to the flexible tubing may accumulate in or even become stuck in the flexible tubing section, potentially causing partial or complete blockage. However, because the flexible tubing section is difficult to access from both the end of the vacuum cleaner tubing connected to the nozzle and the end connected to the vacuum cleaner housing, blockage of the flexible tubing section can render the vacuum cleaner tubing completely inoperable.

[0005] Similarly, in the event of damage to the flexible tubular portion, such as partial breakage due to repeated movement of the first and second rigid tubular portions between the unfolded and folded configurations, the cleaning performance of the vacuum cleaner tubing is significantly reduced. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention aims to overcome all or some of these disadvantages.

[0007] The technical problem upon which this invention is based is particularly to provide a vacuum cleaner pipe that is simple in structure, reliable, and ergonomic.

[0008] Therefore, the present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner duct that defines an airflow passage and includes: - First rigid pipe section and second rigid pipe section - A flexible conduit connecting the first and second rigid conduit portions and at least partially defining an airflow passage, the flexible conduit including a flexible tubular portion, a first retaining ring fixed to a first end of the flexible tubular portion, and a second retaining ring fixed to a second end of the flexible tubular portion. - A hinged device connecting first and second rigid pipe sections to each other, the hinged device including a hinge axis and configured to allow the first rigid pipe section to pivot relative to the second rigid pipe section about the hinge axis between an unfolded configuration in which the first and second rigid pipe sections are substantially aligned with each other and a folded configuration in which the first and second rigid pipe sections define an angle of less than 180° between each other. - A locking member configured to reversibly lock the first and second rigid pipe sections in the deployed configuration.

[0009] The first retaining ring is configured to be detachably fixed to the first rigid pipe portion, and the second retaining ring is configured to be detachably fixed to the second rigid pipe portion.

[0010] This configuration of flexible tubing allows for disassembly, particularly for cleaning, removing large debris stuck in the tubing, or replacing the tubing in case of damage.

[0011] Therefore, the vacuum cleaner pipe according to the present invention has improved reliability compared to the vacuum cleaner pipe according to the prior art.

[0012] Vacuum cleaner ducts may also have one or more of the following features, either individually or in combination.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first retaining ring includes a first locking device configured to reversibly lock the first retaining ring onto the first rigid pipe portion, and the second retaining ring includes a second locking device configured to reversibly lock the second retaining ring onto the second rigid pipe portion.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first locking device includes at least one first locking element, such as a first locking arm or a first locking tongue, movable between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration. In the locking configuration, the at least one first locking element is configured to cooperate with the first rigid pipe portion to lock the first retaining ring onto the first rigid pipe portion. In the unlocking configuration, the at least one first locking element is configured to release the first rigid pipe portion to allow the first retaining ring to exit from the first rigid pipe portion. The second locking device includes at least one second locking element, such as a second locking arm or a second locking tongue, movable between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration. In the locking configuration, the at least one second locking element is configured to cooperate with the second rigid pipe portion to lock the second retaining ring onto the second rigid pipe portion. In the unlocking configuration, the at least one second locking element is configured to release the second rigid pipe portion to allow the second retaining ring to exit from the second rigid pipe portion.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the invention, each of at least one first locking element and at least one second locking element extends along an extension direction substantially parallel to the central axis of the flexible conduit when it occupies the locking configuration.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first fixing ring includes a first annular ring body and at least one first locking element extends from the first annular ring body, and the second fixing ring includes a second annular ring body and at least one second locking element extends from the second annular ring body.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the invention, each of at least one first locking element and at least one second locking element is elastically deformable between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the invention, each of at least one first locking element and at least one second locking element is located on the side of the vacuum cleaner pipe. In other words, at least one first locking element is a first lateral locking element, and at least one second locking element is a second lateral locking element.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the invention, each of at least one first locking element and at least one second locking element is accessible from the outside of the vacuum cleaner duct.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one first locking element is configured to be accessible from the side of a first rigid pipe portion, and at least one second locking element is configured to be accessible from the side of a second rigid pipe portion.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first locking device includes at least one first locking hole disposed on the first rigid pipe portion and configured to cooperate with at least one first locking element when the at least one first locking element is in a locking configuration, and the second locking device includes at least one second locking hole disposed on the second rigid pipe portion and configured to cooperate with at least one second locking element when the at least one second locking element is in a locking configuration.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the invention, the at least one first locking hole opens into the outer surface of the first rigid pipe portion and is configured to allow access to the at least one first locking element from the outside of the vacuum cleaner pipe and to allow the at least one first locking element to move into an unlocking configuration, and the at least one second locking hole opens into the outer surface of the second rigid pipe portion and is configured to allow access to the at least one second locking element from the outside of the vacuum cleaner pipe and to allow the second locking element to move into an unlocking configuration.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the invention, the at least one first locking hole is configured to be positioned facing the at least one first locking element when the first retaining ring is secured to the first rigid pipe portion, and is provided with a first locking finger, for example, facing the at least one first locking element; and the at least one second locking hole is configured to be positioned facing the at least one second locking element when the second retaining ring is secured to the second rigid pipe portion, and is provided with a second locking finger, for example, facing the at least one second locking element.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the invention, each of at least one first locking hole and at least one second locking hole is oblong.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one first locking hole is provided on a lateral portion of the first rigid pipe portion, and at least one second locking hole is provided on a lateral portion of the second rigid pipe portion.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first locking device includes two first locking elements radially opposite to the central axis of the flexible pipe, and the second locking device includes two second locking elements radially opposite to the central axis of the flexible pipe.

[0027] As a result of the above configuration, when the first and second rigid pipe sections are in the deployed configuration, each locking element is arranged on the side of the vacuum cleaner pipe and spaced apart from the hinge.

[0028] This configuration allows easy access to the two first and two second locking elements without being obstructed by the hinge mechanism.

[0029] This configuration of the first and second locking devices allows for easy disassembly of the flexible pipe by applying pressure to the two first locking elements in succession with the thumb and forefinger of the same hand to move them into the unlocked configuration, and enables the first retaining ring to be disengaged from the first portion of the rigid pipe, and then pressure is applied to the two second locking elements to move them into the unlocked configuration, and the second retaining ring to be disengaged from the second rigid pipe portion.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the invention, two first locking elements are configured to be close to each other when they are in the unlocked configuration and far apart when they are in the locked configuration, and two second locking elements are configured to be close to each other when they are in the unlocked configuration and far apart when they are in the locked configuration.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the invention, the flexible conduit includes a first annular seal fixed to a first retaining ring and configured to seal against a first rigid conduit portion, and a second annular seal fixed to a second retaining ring and configured to seal against a second rigid conduit portion.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first rigid conduit portion includes a tubular first mounting portion having a first insertion opening, and a second rigid conduit portion includes a tubular second mounting portion having a second insertion opening, a first retaining ring being configured to be inserted into the first mounting portion via the first insertion opening, and a second retaining ring being configured to be inserted into the second mounting portion via the second insertion opening.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one first locking hole is provided on the first mounting portion, and at least one second locking hole is provided on the first mounting portion.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first retaining ring is configured to be detachably fixed to a first mounting portion, and a second retaining ring is configured to be detachably fixed to a second mounting portion.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the invention, a first rigid tube portion is configured to be fluidly connected to a vacuum cleaner housing equipped with a suction unit, and a second rigid tube portion is configured to be fluidly connected to a nozzle configured to contact the floor to be cleaned.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the invention, the vacuum cleaner pipe includes a first suction tube fluidly and mechanically connected to a first rigid pipe portion and a second suction tube fluidly and mechanically connected to a second rigid pipe portion.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the invention, a first suction tube is configured to be fluidly and mechanically connected to a vacuum cleaner housing, and a second suction tube is configured to be fluidly and mechanically connected to a nozzle.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first rigid pipe portion includes a first connecting portion fluidly and mechanically connected to the first straw, and the second rigid pipe portion includes a second connecting portion fluidly and mechanically connected to the second straw.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, first and second suction tubes, and a flexible conduit define an airflow channel.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the invention, the hinge is configured to be located above the flexible duct when the vacuum cleaner duct is in normal use. In other words, the hinge is configured to be oriented upwards, meaning it is directly visible to the user when the vacuum cleaner duct is in normal use. Advantageously, the hinge axis does not intersect with the flexible duct.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the invention, a locking member is pivotally mounted on one of the first and second rigid pipe portions about a pivot axis substantially parallel to the hinge axis, and is configured to pivot between a locked position and a released position. In the locked position, the locking member is configured to cooperate with the other of the first and second rigid pipe portions to lock the first and second rigid pipe portions in an unfolded configuration, and in the released position, the locking member is configured to release the other of the first and second rigid pipe portions to allow the first and second rigid pipe portions to pivot in a folded configuration.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the invention, the vacuum cleaner duct includes an actuating member that is linked to a locking member, and includes an actuating portion configured to be manually actuated by a user. The actuating member is mounted to pivot about a pivot axis between a rest position and an unlocked position. The vacuum cleaner duct is configured such that movement of the actuating member from the rest position to the unlocked position causes movement of the locking member from a locked position to a released position.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the invention, when the first and second rigid pipe sections are in an deployed configuration, the locking member and the hinge device are substantially radially opposite each other relative to the central longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner pipe. According to this embodiment of the invention, the actuating portion may be located on the same side as the hinge device.

[0044] According to another embodiment of the invention, when the first and second rigid pipe sections are in the deployed configuration, the locking member and the actuating portion are substantially radially opposite to the hinge device relative to the central longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner pipe.

[0045] In a configuration where the first locking device includes two first locking elements and the second locking device includes two second locking elements—the two first locking elements are radially opposite each other relative to the central axis of the flexible pipe, and the two second locking elements are radially opposite each other relative to the central axis of the flexible pipe—when the first and second rigid pipe sections are in an extended configuration, each of the first and second locking elements is positioned on a side of the vacuum cleaner pipe between a hinge on one side and a locking member on the other. This configuration allows easy access to both the first and second locking elements without obstruction by the hinge or locking member.

[0046] The vacuum cleaner tubing includes a cover cap configured to cover at least one distal portion, also referred to as the free end portion, of a locking member. The cover cap includes a main cover wall configured such that, when the first and second rigid tubing portions are in an extended configuration, the distal portion of the locking member is disposed between the main cover wall and another of the first and second rigid tubing portions. The presence of this cover cap significantly limits, on the one hand, the risk of the locking member snagging on external components when the vacuum cleaner tubing is in an extended configuration, thus limiting the risk of the locking member getting stuck; on the other hand, it limits the risk of the user's fingers being pinched when the locking member pivots between a locked position and a released position.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cap is also configured as a lateral capping locking member.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cap is configured to make the locking member inaccessible when the first and second rigid pipe portions occupy the unfolded configuration.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the invention, the locking member and the actuating member are made as a single piece. This configuration of the vacuum cleaner tubing facilitates assembly and reduces its manufacturing cost.

[0050] The present invention also relates to a vacuum cleaner, comprising: - Vacuum cleaner housing equipped with a suction unit. - A nozzle configured to contact the floor being cleaned, and - According to the invention, the vacuum cleaner tubing mechanically and fluidly connects the vacuum cleaner housing to the nozzle.

[0051] Vacuum cleaners can be, for example, broom-type vacuum cleaners or sled-type vacuum cleaners.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the invention, the vacuum cleaner further includes a grip and a flexible suction tube, the grip and the flexible suction tube being disposed between the vacuum cleaner tube and the vacuum cleaner housing, and configured to mechanically and fluidly connect the vacuum cleaner housing to the nozzle. Attached Figure Description

[0053] In any way, the invention will be clearly understood by means of the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate one embodiment of the vacuum cleaner duct by way of non-limiting example.

[0054] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to the present invention.

[0055] Figure 2 It belongs to Figure 1 A partial perspective side view of the vacuum cleaner duct, showing the vacuum cleaner duct in an unfolded configuration.

[0056] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A partial bottom view of the vacuum cleaner's ductwork.

[0057] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A partial top view of the vacuum cleaner's ductwork.

[0058] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A partial perspective side view of a vacuum cleaner duct, showing the vacuum cleaner duct in an unfolded configuration.

[0059] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A partial perspective bottom view of a vacuum cleaner duct, showing the vacuum cleaner duct in its unfolded configuration.

[0060] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A partial 3D top view of the vacuum cleaner's ductwork.

[0061] Figure 8 It belongs to Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of the locking component, actuating component, and cover cap of a vacuum cleaner duct.

[0062] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Top view of the locking component, actuating component, and cover cap.

[0063] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 A three-dimensional rear view of the locking component, actuating component, and cover cap.

[0064] Figure 11 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of a vacuum cleaner duct, showing the vacuum cleaner duct in an unfolded configuration and the flexible duct exiting from the first and second rigid duct sections belonging to the vacuum cleaner duct.

[0065] Figure 12 yes Figure 2A longitudinal sectional view of the vacuum cleaner duct, showing the locking member in the locked position.

[0066] Figure 13 yes Figure 2 A longitudinal sectional view of a vacuum cleaner duct, showing the vacuum cleaner duct in a folded configuration. Detailed Implementation

[0067] Figures 1 to 13 A vacuum cleaner 2 is shown, and more specifically a sled vacuum cleaner, which includes a vacuum cleaner housing 3, a nozzle 4 configured to contact the floor to be cleaned, and a vacuum cleaner tube 5 fluidly and mechanically connecting the vacuum cleaner housing 2 to the nozzle 4. The vacuum cleaner housing 3 is specifically equipped with a suction unit 6 in a known manner, which may include, for example, an electric motor fan, and waste separation and storage devices.

[0068] like Figure 2 As shown, the vacuum cleaner pipe 5 includes a first rigid pipe section 7, a second rigid pipe section 8, and a hinge device 9 that connects the first and second rigid pipe sections 7 and 8 to each other.

[0069] The hinge device 9 is configured to allow the first rigid pipe portion 7 to pivot relative to the second rigid pipe portion 8 about the hinge axis A, and wherein the first and second rigid pipe portions 7, 8 are in an unfolded configuration aligned with each other (see...). Figure 2 ) and the folded configuration in which the first and second rigid pipe sections 7 and 8 mutually define an angle of less than 180° (see Figure 5 The hinge device 9 is pivoting between the first and second rigid pipe sections 7 and 8. Advantageously, the hinge device 9 is configured to face upward when the vacuum cleaner pipe 5 is in normal use, i.e., facing the user, and is also configured such that the hinge axis A does not intersect with the first and second rigid pipe sections 7 and 8.

[0070] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the hinge device 9 includes a first hinge portion 9.1 fixed to the outer surface of the first rigid pipe portion 7 and a second hinge portion 9.2 fixed to the outer surface of the second rigid pipe portion 8. Advantageously, the second rigid pipe portion 8 includes two lateral protective ribs 10, which are respectively located on both sides of the second hinge portion 9.2 (see figure). Figure 4 and Figure 5 It is configured to prevent external objects from being clamped or stuck at the hinge 9.

[0071] The vacuum cleaner pipe 5 also includes a first suction tube 11, which includes a proximal portion 11.1 fluidly and mechanically connected to the first rigid pipe portion 7, and a distal portion 11.2 configured, for example, to be fluidly and mechanically connected directly to the vacuum cleaner housing 3 in the case of a broom-type vacuum cleaner, or fluidly and mechanically connected to the vacuum cleaner housing 3 via a grip handle and a flexible suction tube in the case of a sled-type vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaner pipe 5 also includes a second suction tube 12, which includes a proximal portion 12.1 fluidly and mechanically connected to the second rigid pipe portion 8 and a distal portion 12.2 configured to be fluidly and mechanically connected to the nozzle 4.

[0072] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the first rigid tube portion 7 includes a first connecting portion 13, which is tubular and fluidly and mechanically connected to the proximal portion 11.1 of the first straw 11, and the second rigid tube portion 8 includes a second connecting portion 14, which is tubular and fluidly and mechanically connected to the proximal portion 12.1 of the second straw 12.

[0073] like Figure 5 and Figure 11 As shown more specifically, the vacuum cleaner duct 5 also includes a flexible duct 15 that defines an internal flow channel and connects the first and second rigid duct portions 7, 8. The flexible duct 15 is more specifically configured to fluidly connect the first connecting portion 13 and the second connecting portion 14, such that the first connecting portion 14, the second connecting portion 14, the first and second suction tubes 11, 12, and the flexible duct 15 define an airflow channel that connects to the suction unit 6 on one side and to the nozzle 4 on the other.

[0074] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the first and second rigid pipe portions 7 and 8 each include tubular first and second mounting portions 16 and 17, and the first and second mounting portions 16 and 17 define a receiving compartment 18 in which the flexible pipe 15 is mounted. Advantageously, the first mounting portion 16 includes a first insertion opening, and the second mounting portion 17 includes a second insertion opening configured to face the first insertion opening when the first and second rigid pipe portions 7 and 8 are in an deployed configuration.

[0075] The flexible conduit 15 more specifically includes a flexible tubular portion 19, a first retaining ring 21 fixed to a first end of the flexible tubular portion 19 and configured to be detachably fixed to a first mounting portion 16, and a second retaining ring 22 fixed to a second end of the flexible tubular portion 19 and configured to be detachably fixed to a second mounting portion 17. The first retaining ring 21 is more specifically configured to be inserted into the first mounting portion 16 via a first insertion opening, and the second retaining ring 22 is more specifically configured to be inserted into the second mounting portion 17 via a second insertion opening.

[0076] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the first fixing ring 21 includes a first locking device 23 configured to reversibly lock the first fixing ring 21 onto the first mounting portion 16, and the second fixing ring 22 includes a second locking device 24 configured to reversibly lock the second fixing ring 22 onto the second mounting portion 17.

[0077] The first locking device 23 more specifically includes two first locking elements 25, such as first locking arms or first locking tongues, which are radially opposed to the central axis of the flexible conduit 15 and movable and advantageously elastically deformable between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration. In the locking configuration, the two first locking elements 25 are spaced apart from each other and configured to cooperate with the first mounting portion 16 to lock the first retaining ring 21 onto the first mounting portion 15. In the unlocking configuration, the two first locking elements 25 are close together and configured to release the first mounting portion 16 to allow the first retaining ring 21 to exit from the first mounting portion 16. One of the two first locking elements 25 is in Figure 11 It is particularly visible in the middle, and another of the two first locking elements 25 is in Figure 4 It is particularly visible in the middle.

[0078] Similarly, the second locking device 24 includes two second locking elements 26, such as second locking arms or second locking tongues, which are radially opposed to the central axis of the flexible conduit 15 and movable between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration, and advantageously elastically deformable. In the locking configuration, the two second locking elements 26 are spaced apart from each other and configured to cooperate with the second mounting portion 17 to lock the second retaining ring 22 onto the second mounting portion 17. In the unlocking configuration, the two second locking elements 26 are close together and configured to release the second mounting portion 17 to allow the second retaining ring 22 to exit from the second mounting portion 17. One of the two second locking elements 26 is in Figure 11 It is particularly visible in the middle, and another of the two second locking elements 26 is in Figure 4 It is particularly visible in the middle.

[0079] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the first retaining ring 21 includes a first annular ring body 21.1, and each first locking element 25 extends from the first annular ring body 21.1 in an extension direction substantially parallel to the central axis of the flexible conduit 15 when the first locking element 25 is in the locking configuration. The second retaining ring 22 includes a second annular ring body 22.1, and each second locking element 26 extends from the second annular ring body 22.1 in an extension direction also substantially parallel to the central axis of the flexible conduit 15 when the second locking element 26 is in the locking configuration.

[0080] Advantageously, each of the first locking element 25 and the second locking element 26 is configured to be accessible from the outside of the vacuum cleaner duct 5. Each first locking element 25 is more specifically configured to be accessible from a corresponding side of the first rigid duct portion 7, and each second locking element 26 is more specifically configured to be accessible from a corresponding side of the second rigid duct portion 8.

[0081] When the first and second rigid pipe sections 7 and 8 are in the deployed configuration, each of the first and second locking elements 25 and 26 is disposed on the side of the vacuum cleaner pipe 5 between a hinge 9 on one side and a locking member 32 on the other side. This configuration allows easy access to the two first and two second locking elements 25 and 26 without obstruction by the hinge 9 or the locking member 32.

[0082] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the first locking device 23 includes two first locking holes T1, which are disposed on the first mounting portion 16, more specifically on two corresponding lateral portions of the first mounting portion 16, and configured to cooperate with the two first locking elements 25 respectively when the two first locking elements 25 are in the locked configuration. Similarly, the second locking device 24 includes two second locking holes 28, which are disposed on the second mounting portion 17, more specifically on two corresponding lateral portions of the second mounting portion 17, and configured to cooperate with the two second locking elements 26 respectively when the two second locking elements 26 are in the locked configuration.

[0083] Each first locking hole T1 more specifically passes through and leads to the outer surface of the first mounting portion 16 to allow access to the corresponding first locking element 25 from the outside of the vacuum cleaner pipe 5 and to allow the corresponding first locking element 25 to move in the unlocked configuration. Each second locking hole 28 more specifically passes through and leads to the outer surface of the second mounting portion 17 to allow access to the corresponding second locking element 26 from the outside of the vacuum cleaner pipe 5 and to allow the corresponding second locking element 26 to move to the unlocked configuration. Each of the first locking holes T1 and the second locking holes may, for example, be oblong. Advantageously, each first locking hole T1 is configured to face a first locking position provided with the corresponding first locking element 25 when the first retaining ring 21 is secured to the first rigid pipe portion 7, and each second locking hole 28 is configured to face a second locking position provided with the corresponding second locking element 26 when the second retaining ring 22 is secured to the second rigid pipe portion 8.

[0084] like Figure 11 As shown, the flexible conduit 15 also includes a first annular seal 29 fixed to the first fixing ring 21 and configured to seal with the first rigid conduit portion 7, and a second annular seal 31 fixed to the second fixing ring 22 and configured to seal with the second rigid conduit portion 8.

[0085] The vacuum cleaner pipe 5 also includes a locking member 32, such as a locking lug or locking latch equipped with locking fingers, configured to lock the first and second rigid pipe portions 7, 8 in the deployed configuration. Advantageously, in the deployed configuration of the first and second rigid pipe portions 7, 8, the locking member 32 and the hinge device 9 are substantially radially opposite to the central longitudinal axis B of the suction pipe 5.

[0086] The locking member 32 is pivotally mounted on the first rigid conduit portion 7 about a pivot axis C parallel to the hinge axis A, between a locked position and a released position. In the locked position, the locking member 32 is configured to engage with the locking element 33 disposed on the second rigid conduit portion 8. Figure 11 (As can be seen), for example, a locking hole that can at least partially accommodate the aforementioned locking finger to lock the first and second rigid portions 8, 9 in the unfolded configuration, and in the released position, the locking member 32 is configured to release the locking element 33 to allow the first and second rigid pipe portions 7, 8 to pivot into the folded configuration.

[0087] The vacuum cleaner duct 5 also includes an actuating member 34 configured to move the locking member 32 to a released position. Advantageously, the locking member 32 and the actuating member 34 are made as a single piece, and the actuating member 34 extends in an extension of the locking member 32.

[0088] The actuating member 34 is linked with the locking member 32, and is therefore mounted in a stationary position about the pivot axis C (see...). Figure 2 The vacuum cleaner duct 5 is more specifically configured such that movement of the actuating member 34 from the rest position to the unlocked position causes movement of the locking member 32 from the locked position to the released position.

[0089] The actuating member 34 includes an actuating portion 35 configured to be manually actuated by a user and a connecting portion 36 connecting the actuating portion 35 to the locking member 32.

[0090] More specifically, the actuating portion 35 includes a support surface 37 against which a user can apply a supporting force, i.e., pressure, to move the actuating member 34 to the unlocked position. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the actuating portion 35 includes a rear lateral edge defining a rear lateral edge of the actuating member 34.

[0091] Advantageously, the actuating portion 35 and the locking member 32 are located on the same side of the suction pipe 5, which is radially opposite to the side where the hinge device 9 is located in the suction pipe 5, and the actuating portion 35 and the locking member 32 are substantially aligned longitudinally.

[0092] like Figure 10As shown, the actuating portion 35 is curved and extends around a portion of the outer periphery of the first rigid conduit portion 7. Therefore, the inner surface 35.1 of the actuating portion 35, facing the first rigid conduit portion 7, is concave and circular, and the supporting surface 37 is convex and circular. Advantageously, the inner surface 35.1 of the actuating portion 35 has a curvature substantially complementary to the outer curvature of the first rigid conduit portion 7. This configuration of the actuating member 34 allows for an increased displacement stroke, i.e., clearance, of the actuating member 34 during movement between the rest position and the unlocked position, while limiting the volume of the actuating member 34.

[0093] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the connecting portion 36 is elongated and extends parallel to the central longitudinal axis B of the vacuum cleaner pipe 5 when the first and second rigid pipe portions 7, 8 are in the deployed configuration, and the actuating portion 35 extends from the rear lateral edge of the connecting portion 36, thus being opposite the locking member 32 relative to the pivot axis C. Advantageously, the actuating portion 35 is configured to be retracted overall from a plane parallel to the hinge axis A and including the central longitudinal axis B of the vacuum cleaner pipe 5 when the first and second rigid pipe portions 7, 8 are in the deployed configuration.

[0094] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the actuating portion 35 has a first longitudinal dimension measured parallel to the central longitudinal axis B of the vacuum cleaner pipe 5 in the deployed configuration of the first and second rigid pipe portions 7, 8, and the locking member 32 has a second longitudinal dimension, smaller than the first longitudinal dimension, measured parallel to the central longitudinal axis B of the vacuum cleaner pipe 5 in the deployed configuration of the first and second rigid pipe portions 7, 8. Advantageously, the locking member 32 has a lateral dimension measured perpendicular to the intermediate longitudinal plane of the suction pipe 5 in the deployed configuration of the first and second rigid pipe portions 7, 8, which is smaller than the first longitudinal dimension of the actuating portion 35.

[0095] The vacuum cleaner duct 5 also includes a biasing element 38, such as a biasing spring, configured to bias the actuating member 34 to a rest position. This biasing element 38 allows for defining a stable rest position for the actuating member 34.

[0096] The vacuum cleaner pipe 5 also includes a cover cap 39, which is fixed to the first rigid pipe portion 7 and configured to extend below the locking member 32 and generally cover the lower surface of the locking member 32, i.e. the surface of the locking member 32 that is positioned relative to the first rigid pipe portion 7.

[0097] The cap 39 is specifically configured to cover the distal portion of the locking member 32. Advantageously, the cap 39 is also configured to cover the side edges of the locking member 32 entirely and to render the locking member 32 inaccessible when the first and second rigid conduit portions 7, 8 are in the deployed configuration. This cap 39 significantly limits the risk of the locking member 32 getting stuck and also limits the risk of the user's fingers being pinched when the locking member 32 pivots between the locked and released positions.

[0098] More specifically, the cover cap 39 includes a main cover wall 39.1 that extends parallel to the central axis of the first rigid pipe portion 7 and is configured such that, when the first and second rigid pipe portions 7, 8 are in the deployed configuration, the distal portion of the locking member 32 is disposed between the main cover wall 39.1 and the second rigid pipe portion 8. The main cover wall 39.1 is configured to extend below the locking member 32 when the vacuum cleaner pipe 5 is in the normal use configuration.

[0099] When the first and second rigid pipe portions 7 and 8 are in the deployed configuration, the radial distance between the inner surface of the main cover wall 39.1 and the outer surface of the second rigid pipe portion 8 is sufficient to allow the distal portion of the locking member 32 to move as the locking member 32 moves from the locked position to the released position.

[0100] The cap 39 also includes two sidewalls 39.2 extending on both sides of the locking member 32 and an endwall 39.3 opposite to the actuating portion 35.

[0101] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, when the first and second rigid pipe portions 7 and 8 are in the deployed configuration, the second rigid pipe portion 8 and the cover cap 39 define an internal compartment for accommodating the locking member 32.

[0102] Advantageously, the cover 39 extends longitudinally beyond the pivot axis C of the locking member 32, but the actuating member 34 extends longitudinally beyond the cover 39, so that the actuating part 35 is not covered by the cover 39, thereby allowing the actuating part 35 to be easily actuated by the user.

[0103] like Figure 2 As shown more specifically, when the actuating member 34 is in the rest position, the supporting surface 37 is substantially flush with the outer surface 41 of the cover cap 39. For this purpose, the actuating member 34 may, for example, include a lateral shoulder 42 that separates the connecting portion 36 and the actuating portion 35, and is configured such that the lower surface of the connecting portion 36 is raised relative to the supporting surface 37, i.e., offset upward relative to the supporting surface 37, the offset distance substantially corresponding to the thickness of the main cover wall 39.1 of the cover cap 39.

[0104] Advantageously, the actuating portion 35 includes two outer surfaces 43, which are also substantially flush with the two outer surfaces 44 of the cover cap 39 (see...). Figure 3 Each outer surface 43 of the actuating portion 35 may advantageously be parallel to the corresponding outer surface 44 of the cover cap 39.

[0105] Of course, the present invention is by no means limited to the embodiments described and shown, which are given by way of example only. Modifications are still possible without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention, particularly from the perspective of the construction of various elements or by substitution with technical equivalents.

Claims

1. A vacuum cleaner duct (5) defining an airflow passage and comprising: - First rigid pipe section (7) and second rigid pipe section (8). - A flexible conduit (15) that connects the first and second rigid conduit portions (7, 8) and at least partially defines the airflow passage, the flexible conduit (15) including a flexible tubular portion (19), a first retaining ring (21) fixed to a first end of the flexible tubular portion (19) and a second retaining ring (22) fixed to a second end of the flexible tubular portion (19). - A hinge device (9) connecting the first and second rigid pipe portions (7, 8) to each other, the hinge device (9) including a hinge axis (A) and configured to allow the first rigid pipe portion (7) to pivot relative to the second rigid pipe portion (8) about the hinge axis (A) between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration, in which the first and second rigid pipe portions (7, 8) are substantially aligned with each other, and in the folded configuration the first and second rigid pipe portions (7, 8) define an angle of less than 180° with each other. - A locking member (32) configured to reversibly lock the first and second rigid pipe portions (7, 8) in the deployed configuration. The first fixing ring (21) is configured to be detachably fixed to the first rigid pipe portion (7), and the second fixing ring (22) is configured to be detachably fixed to the second rigid pipe portion (8).

2. The vacuum cleaner pipe (5) according to claim 1, wherein, The first retaining ring (21) includes a first locking device (23) configured to reversibly lock the first retaining ring (21) onto the first rigid pipe portion (7), and the second retaining ring (22) includes a second locking device (24) configured to reversibly lock the second retaining ring (22) onto the second rigid pipe portion (8).

3. The vacuum cleaner pipe (5) according to claim 2, wherein, The first locking device (23) includes at least one first locking element (25) movable between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration, wherein in the locking configuration the at least one first locking element (25) is configured to cooperate with the first rigid pipe portion (7) to lock the first retaining ring (21) onto the first rigid pipe portion (7), and in the unlocking configuration the at least one first locking element (25) is configured to release the first rigid pipe portion (7) to allow the first retaining ring (21) to exit from the first rigid pipe portion (7), and wherein the second locking device (24) includes at least one second locking element (26) movable between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration, wherein in the locking configuration the at least one second locking element (26) is configured to cooperate with the second rigid pipe portion (8) to lock the second retaining ring (22) onto the second rigid pipe portion (8), and in the unlocking configuration the at least one second locking element (26) is configured to release the second rigid pipe portion (8) to allow the second retaining ring (22) to exit from the second rigid pipe portion (8).

4. The vacuum cleaner pipe (5) according to claim 3, wherein, Each of the at least one first locking element (25) and the at least one second locking element (26) is capable of elastic deformation between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration.

5. The vacuum cleaner duct (5) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, Each of the at least one first locking element (25) and the at least one second locking element (26) is located on the side of the vacuum cleaner pipe (5).

6. The vacuum cleaner duct (5) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, Each of the at least one first locking element (25) and the at least one second locking element (26) can be accessed from the outside of the vacuum cleaner pipe (5).

7. The vacuum cleaner duct (5) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein, The at least one first locking element (25) is configured to be accessible from the side of the first rigid pipe portion (7), and the at least one second locking element (26) is configured to be accessible from the side of the second rigid pipe portion (8).

8. The vacuum cleaner duct (5) according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein, The first locking device (23) includes at least one first locking hole (27) disposed on the first rigid pipe portion (7) and configured to cooperate with the at least one first locking element (25) when the at least one first locking element is in a locked configuration, and the second locking device (24) includes at least one second locking hole (28) disposed on the second rigid pipe portion (8) and configured to cooperate with the at least one second locking element (26) when the at least one second locking element (26) is in a locked configuration.

9. The vacuum cleaner pipe (5) according to claim 8, wherein, The at least one first locking hole (27) opens into the outer surface of the first rigid pipe portion (7) and is configured to allow access to the at least one first locking element (25) from the outside of the vacuum cleaner pipe (5) and allow the at least one first locking element (25) to move to the unlocking configuration, and the at least one second locking hole (28) opens into the outer surface of the second rigid pipe portion (8) and is configured to allow access to the at least one second locking element (26) from the outside of the vacuum cleaner pipe (5) and allow the second locking element (26) to move to the unlocking configuration.

10. The vacuum cleaner pipe (5) according to claim 9, wherein, The at least one first locking hole (27) is provided on the lateral portion of the first rigid pipe portion (7), and the at least one second locking hole (26) is provided on the lateral portion of the second rigid pipe portion (8).

11. The vacuum cleaner duct (5) according to any one of claims 3 to 10, wherein, The first locking device (23) includes two first locking elements (25) that are radially opposite to the central axis of the flexible pipe (15), and the second locking device (24) includes two second locking elements (26) that are radially opposite to the central axis of the flexible pipe (15).

12. The vacuum cleaner duct (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The flexible conduit (15) includes a first annular seal (29) fixed to the first retaining ring (21) and configured to cooperate with the first rigid conduit portion (7) in a sealing manner, and includes a second annular seal (31) fixed to the second retaining ring (22) and configured to cooperate with the second rigid conduit portion (8) in a sealing manner.

13. The vacuum cleaner duct (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The first rigid pipe portion (7) includes a first mounting portion (16), which is tubular and has a first insertion opening, and the second rigid pipe portion (8) includes a second mounting portion (17), which is tubular and has a second insertion opening. The first retaining ring (21) is configured to be inserted into the first mounting portion (16) via the first insertion opening, and the second retaining ring (22) is configured to be inserted into the second mounting portion (17) via the second insertion opening.

14. The vacuum cleaner duct (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The first rigid pipe portion (7) is configured to be fluidly connected to a vacuum cleaner housing (3) equipped with a suction unit (6), and the second rigid pipe portion (8) is configured to be fluidly connected to a nozzle (4) configured to contact the floor to be cleaned.

15. A vacuum cleaner (2), comprising: - Vacuum cleaner housing (3) equipped with suction unit. - A nozzle (4) configured to contact the floor to be cleaned, and - A vacuum cleaner pipe (5) according to any one of the preceding claims, the vacuum cleaner pipe (5) mechanically and fluidly connecting the vacuum cleaner housing (3) to the nozzle (4).

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