Suction device and suction system

Abstract

According to one aspect of the present invention, provided is a suction device provided with: a volute provided with a suction port; the suction device includes a volute having a suction port and a suction port, and a fan housing having a blower fan disposed therein and having an exhaust port, the suction device being characterized in that the volute forms a flow path from the suction port to the exhaust port together with the fan housing, and is connected to the fan housing on an upstream side of the flow path, and the fan housing is connected to the fan housing on an upstream side of the flow path. An opening part is arranged on the outer side of the centrifugal direction, a first accommodating part can be installed on the opening part, and the first accommodating part accommodates objects which pass through the opening part and are sucked from the suction port through the flow of the air generated in the flow path by the blower fan.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a suction device and a suction system. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a portable powered suction device, which has an air intake portion formed along the drive shaft of the fan on a portable fan housing, and an air outlet portion formed along the centrifugal direction of the fan. The device draws in the object to be sucked from the front end of a suction tube installed at the air intake portion. The portable powered suction device is characterized in that a fan protection member is provided inside the air intake portion, which is installed in a manner that is integral with the drive shaft and rotates upstream in the air intake direction of the fan. The fan protection member has a collision bearing surface perpendicular to the air intake direction of the air intake portion.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-114858 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] The suction device may sometimes suck up small stones, dead leaves and other objects. When these objects collide with the blower fan inside the suction device, they may produce an unpleasant sound, or the impact on the blower fan may be transmitted to the handle and cause it to vibrate.

[0008] In view of the above, this invention provides a suction device or the like that can suppress the generation of unpleasant sounds or vibrations of the handle caused by the object being suctioned.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a suction device is provided, comprising: a volute having a suction port; and a fan housing having an internally disposed fan and an exhaust port, wherein the volute and the fan housing together form a flow path from the suction port to the exhaust port, the volute is connected to the fan housing on the upstream side of the flow path, and an opening is provided on the outer side in the centrifugal direction, the opening being capable of housing a first receiving portion, the first receiving portion accommodating an object that has been suctioned from the suction port through the opening portion by the airflow generated in the flow path by the fan.

[0011] Based on this method, a suction device can be provided that can suppress the generation of unpleasant sounds caused by the object being suctioned or the generation of vibrations in the handle. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1This is an overall structural diagram showing the general structure of the suction system 1.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a right-side view of suction system 1.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a left-side view of suction system 1.

[0015] Figure 4 This is the front view of suction system 1.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a rear view of suction system 1.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a top view of suction system 1.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a bottom view of suction system 1.

[0019] Figure 8 It is a three-dimensional diagram representing a portion of the suction system 1.

[0020] Figure 9 yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view at the cut line A1-A1.

[0021] Figure 10 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view at the cut line A2-A2.

[0022] Figure 11 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view at the cut line A3-A3.

[0023] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing another example of a volute.

[0024] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing another example of a suction device.

[0025] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the suction device 2b.

[0026] Figure 15 This is another example of a suction section.

[0027] Figure 16 This is another example of a receiving section.

[0028] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating another example of the installation method of the first receiving part.

[0029] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0030] 1: Suction system; 1a: Suction system; 1b: Suction system; 1c: Suction system; 1d: Suction system; 1e: Suction system; 2: Suction device; 2a: Suction device; 2b: Suction device; 2d: Suction device; 2e: Suction device; 10: Suction section; 10a: Suction section; 10c: Suction section; 11: Tubing section; 11c: Suction hose; 12: Suction inlet; 12c: Suction inlet; 13: Mounting section; 13c: Rod-shaped component; 14c: Holder; 15c: Fixing component; 20: Volute housing; 20a: Volute housing; 20b: Volute housing; 20d: Volute housing; 20e: Volute housing; 21: Frame; 21a: Frame; 21e: Frame; 22: Suction port; 23: Opening; 23a: Opening; 23d: Opening; 23e: Opening; 24: Mounting part; 24e: Mounting part; 25: Connection port; 26a: Movable part; 27a: Main component Body parts; 30: Connecting part; 30b: Connecting part; 31: Connecting component; 32: Mesh part; 33b: First part; 34b: Second part; 40: Fan housing; 40b: Fan housing; 41: Frame; 42: Cover; 43: Exhaust port; 43b: Exhaust port; 44: Centrifugal fan; 45: Motor; 46: Connecting port; 50: Drive operation part; 51: Battery; 52: Operating lever; 53: Handle; 60: Container Part; 61: First receiving part; 61d: First receiving part; 611d: Top cover; 612d: Container part; 613d: Fixing part; 614d: Caster part; 61e: First receiving part; 62: Second receiving part; 211: Inner wall surface; B21: Boundary; R10: Flow path; R20: Flow path; R21: Flow path; R211: Flow path; R212: Flow path; R212e: Flow path; R22: Flow path; R23: Flow path. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described using the accompanying drawings. The various features shown in the embodiments described below can be combined with each other.

[0032] Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram showing the general outline of the suction system 1. The suction system 1 is a device that removes dust, debris, litter, fallen leaves, small stones, and other objects that have fallen to the ground by suctioning air. The suction system 1 includes a suction unit 10, a suction device 2, and a receiving unit 60. The suction device 2 is a device that generates airflow for suctioning air and objects. An airflow path R20 is formed inside the suction device 2. The suction unit 10 is mounted on the suction device 2, forming a flow path R10 connected to the flow path R20.

[0033] The receiving portion 60 is configured to receive an object sucked by the suction device 2. The receiving portion 60 includes a first receiving portion 61 and a second receiving portion 62, both of which are mounted on the suction device 2. The first receiving portion 61 receives the object upstream of the flow path R20, and the second receiving portion 62 receives the object downstream of the flow path R20. The suction device 2 will be described to explain the mounting positions of the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 62.

[0034] The suction device 2 includes a volute 20, a connecting portion 30, and a fan housing 40. The volute 20 forms a flow path R21, which is part of a flow path R20. The connecting portion 30 forms a flow path R22, which is part of a flow path R20. The fan housing 40 forms a flow path R23, which is part of a flow path R20. The connecting portion 30 connects the volute 20 and the fan housing 40, thereby connecting the flow paths R21, R22, and R23 to form the flow path R20.

[0035] The volute 20 has a suction port 22, an opening 23, and a connecting port 25. The suction port 22 is the upstream end of the flow path R21, and the connecting port 25 is the downstream end of the flow path R21. That is, the flow path R21 is a flow path from the suction port 22 to the connecting port 25. The opening 23 is provided in the middle of the flow path R21. A first receiving portion 61 is installed in the opening 23. The first receiving portion 61 receives an object sucked from the suction port 22 and flowing out of the opening 23.

[0036] The fan housing 40 has a connection port 46 and an exhaust port 43. The connection port 46 is the upstream end of the flow path R23, and the exhaust port 43 is the downstream end of the flow path R23. That is, the flow path R23 is the flow path from the connection port 46 to the exhaust port 43. The connection port 25 of the volute 20 is connected to the connection port 46 of the fan housing 40 through the flow path R22 formed by the connecting part 30. A second receiving part 62 is installed at the exhaust port 43, which is the downstream end of the flow path R20. The second receiving part 62 receives objects that are drawn from the suction port 22 but are not received in the first receiving part 61.

[0037] Next, referring to the appearance of suction system 1, the details of each structure will be explained. Figure 2 This is a right-side view of suction system 1. Figure 3 This is a left-side view of suction system 1. Figure 4 This is the front view of suction system 1. Figure 5 This is a rear view of suction system 1. Figure 6 This is a top view of suction system 1. Figure 7These are bottom views of the suction system 1. In these views, arrows indicate the front-to-back, up-down, and left-to-right directions when the suction system 1 is placed on the ground. Furthermore, the right-side view is a view of the suction system 1 from the right when viewed from the front, and the left-side view is a view of the suction system 1 from the left when viewed from the front. Regarding the left-to-right direction of the suction system 1, from the perspective of the operator using the suction system 1, the direction to the right is designated as the right direction, and the direction to the left is designated as the left direction.

[0038] Figure 8 It is a three-dimensional diagram representing a portion of the suction system 1. Figure 9 yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view at the cut line A1-A1. Figure 10 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view at the cut line A2-A2. Figure 11 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view at the cut line A3-A3.

[0039] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the suction unit 10 includes a tube 11, an intake port 12, and a mounting portion 13. The tube 11 is a cylindrical component with an intake port 12 and a mounting portion 13 at each end. The mounting portion 13 is mounted on the suction port 22 of the suction device 2. Thus, the suction force generated in the suction device 2 is transmitted to the intake port 12 through the suction unit 10, and air is drawn in from the intake port 12. The suction unit 10 may or may not be flexible.

[0040] The volute 20 is a casing configured to guide air in a vortex shape. The volute 20 includes a frame 21, a suction port 22, an opening 23, a mounting portion 24, and a connection port 25. (The text abruptly ends here.) Figure 9 As shown, the frame 21 has an inner wall surface 211, forming a flow path R21 surrounded by the inner wall surface 211. The flow path R21 is a straight cylindrical flow path R211 starting from the suction port 22 and a vortex-shaped flow path R212 facing the connection port 25.

[0041] To illustrate the position along the flow path R212, in the aforementioned setup (with the suction system 1 placed on the ground and the suction inlet 12 positioned at the front when viewed from the side), as follows... Figure 9The angles shown indicate positions along the flow path R212. Specifically, the position vertically above the center P1 of the rotation axis of the centrifugal fan 44 (air blower fan) located in the fan housing 40 (described later) and extending downwards perpendicularly to the ground is designated as 0 degrees; the position vertically below is designated as 180 degrees; other positions are also designated as angles ranging from 0 degrees to 360 degrees, increasing with the rotation direction D1 of the centrifugal fan 44. Furthermore, the center P1 of the rotation axis of the centrifugal fan 44 is also the center P1 of the rotation axis of the volute 20.

[0042] Here, the boundary B21 of flow paths R211 and R212 is located between 300 degrees and 360 degrees (0 degrees). The flow path R21 (i.e., flow path R212) extending forward from the boundary B21 is arc-shaped, and air flows along the rotation direction D1. At the front end of the rotation direction D1, an opening 23 is provided at a position 180 degrees to 285 degrees (more specifically, between 225 degrees and 285 degrees) outside the centrifugal direction D2 of the flow path R212.

[0043] As the object drawn from the frame 21 moves along the flow path R212, it is subjected to centrifugal force and pressed against the portion of the inner wall surface 211 outside the centrifugal direction D2, moving along the rotational direction D1. It then moves out of the flow path R212 from the opening 23 and is accommodated in the first accommodating portion 61. The first accommodating portion 61 is mounted on the opening 23 via the mounting portion 24. The first accommodating portion 61 is a container shaped like a cylinder that tapers towards the front end and has a bottom surface.

[0044] Preferably, the first receiving portion 61 has rigidity to the extent that it will not deform due to the weight of the object being received or the negative pressure on the R212 passage side, and is as lightweight as possible. Furthermore, when the tube portion 11, i.e., the front side of the suction system 1, is oriented diagonally downward in order to suck up objects on the ground, the opening portion 23 is located close to the vertically downward position, so gravity also acts on the object, making it easy for the object to be received into the first receiving portion 61 from the opening portion 23.

[0045] like Figure 4 , Figure 10 As shown, the volute 20 and the fan housing 40 are connected by the connecting member 31 of the connecting portion 30. In addition, a flow path R22 is formed by the connecting portion 30 between the connecting port 25 of the volute 20 and the connecting port 46 of the fan housing 40.

[0046] Here, as Figure 9As shown, the length of the inner wall surface 211 in the centrifugal direction D2 decreases as it moves along the rotational direction D1, and is shortest near the inner side of the boundary B21, past the opening 23. Therefore, regarding the air flowing in the flow path R212, a portion flows into the interior of the first receiving portion 61, while the rest is compressed by the inner wall surface 211 and flows out from the connection port 25 of the volute 20 through the connection portion 30 and the connection port 46 into the interior of the fan housing 40. At this time, light objects that are not contained in the first receiving portion 61 flow out into the interior of the fan housing 40 along with the air.

[0047] like Figure 10 As shown, the air flowing out of the connection port 25 moves in the direction D3 from the connection port 25 towards the connection port 46, and flows into the interior of the fan housing 40 through the flow path R22 from the connection port 46. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, a mesh section 32 is provided on the flow path R22. The mesh section 32 is designed to cover the entire size and shape of the flow path R22, preventing objects larger than the mesh (such as small twigs and small stones) from flowing into the interior of the fan housing 40.

[0048] like Figure 8 As shown, the fan housing 40 includes a frame 41, a cover 42, an exhaust port 43, a centrifugal fan 44, and a motor 45. The centrifugal fan 44 and the motor 45 are housed within an internal space formed by covering the frame 41 with the cover 42. The motor 45 causes the centrifugal fan 44 to move along... Figure 11 The centrifugal fan 44 rotates in the direction D5 shown. A flow path R23 is formed around the centrifugal fan 44. Air flowing in from the connection port 46 moves along the centrifugal direction D4 through the rotating centrifugal fan 44 and moves along the rotational direction D5 in the flow path R23.

[0049] An exhaust port 43 is provided at the front end of the flow path R23 in the rotation direction D5, and air moving in the flow path R23 flows out from the exhaust port 43. Small and lightweight objects, such as dust and dirt, that are not contained in the first receiving part 61 but have passed through the mesh part 32 in the air flowing in the flow path R20 are collected in the second receiving part 62 through the exhaust port 43. The second receiving part 62 is a filter material such as non-woven fabric or a dust collection bag.

[0050] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the suction device 2 includes a drive operation unit 50. The drive operation unit 50 is configured to receive operations for driving the suction device 2. The drive operation unit 50 includes a battery 51, an operating lever 52, and a handle 53. The battery 51 supplies power to the motor 45. The operating lever 52 receives operations for switching the power supply to the motor 45 on and off, and for adjusting the speed of the motor 45. The handle 53 is the part that the operator holds when lifting the suction system 1.

[0051] As described above, the suction device 2 includes a volute 20 and a fan housing 40. The volute 20 has a suction port 22, and the fan housing 40 has a centrifugal fan 44 (an example of a blower fan) disposed inside it and an exhaust port 43. The volute 20 and the fan housing 40 together form a flow path R20 from the suction port 22 to the exhaust port 43. In addition, the volute 20 is connected to the fan housing 40 upstream of the flow path R20, and has an opening 23 on the outer side in the centrifugal direction D2. The opening 23 can accommodate a first receiving portion 61, which receives an object that has passed through the opening 23 from the object sucked from the suction port 22 by the flow of air generated by the centrifugal fan 44 in the flow path R20.

[0052] When the object being sucked collides with the blower fan, depending on the size, weight, or hardness of the object, an unpleasant sound may be produced, or the impact of the blower fan may be transmitted to the handle 53, and the vibration may be transmitted to the operator's hand holding the handle 53. Additionally, objects larger than the spacing between the blower fan blades may become obstructed in front of the blower fan or repeatedly come into contact with the blower fan blades. In the suction system 1, by providing an opening 23 on the volute 20, such objects flow out through the opening 23 before reaching the blower fan. As a result, compared to the case where the opening 23 is not provided, the generation of unpleasant sounds caused by objects such as small stones or twigs sucked from the suction port 22, the generation of vibration in the handle 53, and consequently, the transmission of vibration to the operator's hand or the reaching of objects larger than the spacing between the blower fan blades to the blower fan can be suppressed.

[0053] Furthermore, by providing an opening 23 on the outer side of the volute 20 in the centrifugal direction D2, compared to providing an opening 23 at another location, the centrifugal force generated by the object reaching the opening 23 is greater. Since the opening 23 exists in the direction in which the centrifugal force acts, it is possible to achieve the following: among the objects being sucked, the heavier the object, the more likely it is to impact the blower fan, the more likely it is to be affected by the centrifugal force due to its weight, and the easier it is to be discharged from the opening 23.

[0054] Furthermore, assuming a fan is installed on the volute 20 and the spacing between the fan blades is narrow, the following situation may occur: an object may become stuck between the fan blades or between the blades and the outer casing, and no matter how long it takes, the object will not be discharged into the first receiving portion 61. Compared to this situation, in Figure 2 In the suction device 2 shown, by providing a blower fan on the downstream side of the first receiving part 61, it is possible to suppress objects larger than the gap between the blades from reaching the blower fan.

[0055] The exhaust port 43 of the fan housing 40 is configured to accommodate a second receiving portion 62, which receives objects that are not received in the first receiving portion 61 from the sucked-up objects. Because the centrifugal force generated on the sucked-up object is proportional to the object's mass, light objects such as dust and dirt sometimes do not exit from the opening 23 due to their small centrifugal force, but instead flow into the fan housing 40 as part of the airflow. By providing the second receiving portion 62, such light objects can also be accommodated.

[0056] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the exhaust port 43 of the fan housing 40 is configured such that when the suction port 22 faces the front of the suction device 2, the exhaust port 43 faces rearward. When the second receiving portion 62 is installed in front of the suction device 2, the second receiving portion 62 sometimes obstructs the view of the area to be collected during dust collection operations, thus becoming an obstacle. In contrast, by configuring the exhaust port 43 to face rearward and also installing the second receiving portion 62 at the rear, the view is not obstructed during operation, so the second receiving portion 62 does not become an obstacle.

[0057] Furthermore, in the suction device 2, a [missing information - likely a type of fan] is provided between the opening 23 of the flow path R20 and the centrifugal fan 44 (an example of a blower fan). Figure 9 The mesh part 32 shown is an example of a preventive part that prevents the sucked-up object from moving. More specifically, the mesh part 32 is provided at the connection part 30 where the volute 20 and the fan housing 40 meet. In this way, large objects can be prevented from touching the blower fan (centrifugal fan 44). Figure 9 In examples like these, objects larger than the mesh size of mesh section 32 do not touch the air supply fan.

[0058] Additionally, the central portion of the volute 20 is connected to the fan housing 40. Specifically, as follows... Figure 9 As shown, the connection port 25, located in the central part of the volute 20, connects to the fan housing 40. Within the volute 20, the flow velocity is faster closer to the outer periphery, and the faster the flow velocity, the greater the energy loss during turbulence. Conversely, the flow velocity is slower closer to the central part, resulting in less energy loss during turbulence. Therefore, compared to connecting the fan housing 40 to the outer periphery, energy loss caused by air movement between the housings can be reduced.

[0059] On the other hand, the fan housing 40 is volute-shaped, and the central portion of this volute-shaped fan housing 40 is connected to the volute 20. Specifically, as... Figure 11 As shown, the connection port 46, located in the central part of the volute-shaped fan housing 40, is connected to the volute 20.

[0060] When the outer periphery of the volute-shaped fan housing 40 is connected to the volute 20, the energy loss due to turbulence is easily amplified because the velocity of the incoming air increases dramatically. Conversely, when the connection is also made at the central portion of the volute-shaped fan housing 40, the initial velocity of the incoming air is slow, thus further reducing energy loss caused by air movement between the housings compared to the case where the connection is made at the outer periphery of the fan housing 40.

[0061] Additionally, by setting the fan housing 40 to a volute shape, and by directing the air flow inside the fan housing 40 in a manner that rotates around the axis of rotation of the centrifugal fan 44 (air blower), the direction of airflow is improved. Figure 11 The rotation direction D5 shown is the same direction in which air flows inside the volute 20 in a manner that it rotates around the axis of rotation of the centrifugal fan 44 (the blower fan). Figure 9 The rotation direction shown (D1) is consistent with that of the fan. Compared with the case where their directions are opposite, it can reduce the driving energy of the fan and suppress power consumption.

[0062] In addition, the suction system 1 includes a suction device 2, a first receiving portion 61 that can be installed into the opening 23, and a second receiving portion 62 that can be installed into the exhaust port 43. By having receiving portions on both the upstream and downstream sides, heavy objects can be collected on the upstream side while preventing damage to the blower fan, and light objects can also be collected.

[0063] <Variation: Opening>

[0064] The location and size of the opening in the volute are not limited to... Figure 9 The position and size are shown in the figure. For example, the opening can be larger than... Figure 9 The opening 23 shown can be large or smaller. The larger the opening, the easier it is for the object being sucked to be accommodated in the first accommodating part 61. However, the incoming air also flows into the first accommodating part 61, generating turbulence and easily causing energy loss. Therefore, it is preferable to set the opening to a size that is well balanced with the air supply efficiency.

[0065] In addition, the opening can be set at a ratio of Figure 9 The opening 23 shown is located upstream of the flow path R20, and can also be provided at a location that is more... Figure 9 The opening 23 shown is located downstream of the flow path R20. Regardless of its position in the rotation direction D1, as long as the opening is located outside the centrifugal direction D2 of the volute 20, centrifugal force can be used to easily discharge objects from the opening compared to other locations. Furthermore, when the opening is located vertically downwards during dust collection operations, gravity also plays a role in addition to centrifugal force, allowing objects to be easily discharged from the opening.

[0066] Specifically, for example, when using Figure 9 When the position is shown in the angle from 0 to 360 degrees, it is preferable to set the opening at a position between 90 and 270 degrees below the center P1 of the rotation axis of the volute 20 in the direction of gravity during operation. The closer to the position directly below the direction of gravity during operation, i.e., 180 degrees, the more preferable. For example, if the suction system 1 is used by tilting the tube 11 45 degrees forward and downward compared to its position when placed on the ground, the position of the opening during installation is preferably between 135 and 315 degrees, and the closer to 225 degrees, the more preferable.

[0067] However, these angles represent only one example; the preferred position of the opening during installation varies depending on the angle envisioned during operation. Specifically, it is preferred that, during operation or installation, at least a portion of the opening is positioned on an imaginary line that passes through the center P1 of the rotation axis of the centrifugal fan 44 (air blower) housed in the fan housing 40 and is parallel to the ground (in the installed state). Figure 9 The imaginary line L2 shown is on the lower side in the direction of gravity.

[0068] Furthermore, in the suction system 1 in its set state, the first receiving part 61 is separated by an imaginary line extending downward perpendicularly to the ground, passing through the center P1 of the rotation axis of the centrifugal fan 44 (air blower) installed in the fan housing 40. Figure 9 The imaginary line L1 shown is positioned on the opposite side of the battery 51, that is, in front of the imaginary line L1. As a result, when a heavy object such as a small stone is received into the first receiving part 61, the center of gravity moves from the rear to the front. Compared with the case where the first receiving part 61 is positioned behind the imaginary line L1, the suction part 10 can be more easily tilted forward during operation.

[0069] Furthermore, the first receiving portion 61 is configured so as not to touch the ground when the suction system 1 is placed on a horizontal surface. This protects the first receiving portion 61 from wear caused by contact with the ground.

[0070] In addition, the number of openings provided on the volute is Figure 2 In some examples, there is only one opening, but it is not limited to this; two or more openings can also be provided on the volute. In this case, for example, by staggering the positions of two or more openings in the rotation direction D1, even if the inclination of the suction system 1 changes during operation, the position of any one opening is close to the vertical bottom, which makes it easier for the object to flow out from the opening compared to the case where there is only one opening.

[0071] <Variation: Position Adjustment>

[0072] The position of the opening in the volute can also be variable. Figure 12This is a diagram showing another example of a volute. Figure 12 The suction system 1a shown includes a suction device 2a, which in turn includes a volute 20a. The opening 23a of the volute 20a is configured to be adjustable in position along a circumferential direction D6. The circumferential direction D6 is along the flow path formed by the volute 20a (and...). Figure 9 The direction of the arc drawn along the outer periphery of the flow path R21 (same as the flow path shown) is also along... Figure 9 The direction of rotation D1 is shown.

[0073] Specifically, the volute 20a includes, for example, a frame 21a, which includes a movable part 26a and a main body part 27a. The movable part 26a includes an opening 23a. A guide rail is provided on the main body part 27a, and the movable part 26a has a locking portion that engages with the guide rail, allowing it to slide along the circumferential direction D6. Regarding the movable part 26a, the circumferential dimension D6 is made sufficiently large so that even when the movable part 26a slides, the airtightness of the flow path R20 is maintained.

[0074] In this way, by adjusting the position of the circumferential direction D6 of the adjustable opening 23a, the position of the opening 23a can be brought closer to the vertical position according to the inclination of the suction system 1 during operation. As a result, compared with the case where the position of the circumferential direction D6 of the opening 23a is fixed, regardless of the inclination of the suction device 2, the object can be easily discharged from the opening 23a by utilizing both centrifugal force and gravity.

[0075] <Modification: Adjustment of the shell position>

[0076] The structure of the volute and fan housing is not limited to the examples mentioned above. Figure 13 This is a diagram showing another example of a suction device. Figure 13 The suction system 1b shown includes a suction device 2b, which includes a volute 20b, a connecting part 30b, and a fan housing 40b. The volute 20b and the fan housing 40b are configured to adjust their relative positions in the circumferential direction.

[0077] The circumferential direction D6 of the volute 20b is related to... Figure 12 The example follows the same direction. The circumferential direction D7 of the fan housing 40b is along the flow path formed by the volute 20b (and...). Figure 11 The direction of the arc drawn along the outer periphery of the flow path R23 (same as the flow path shown) is also along... Figure 11 The direction of rotation D5 is shown.

[0078] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the suction device 2b. (Example) Figure 14As shown, the connecting part 30b includes a first part 33b that connects to the volute 20b and a second part 34b that connects to the fan housing 40b. The first part 33b and the second part 34b are connected to each other in a manner that allows them to rotate in the circumferential direction. By rotating these first parts 33b and second parts 34b, the circumferential positions of the volute 20b and the fan housing 40b are adjusted.

[0079] For example, in Figure 2 In the case of the suction system 1 shown, when tilted forward and downward during operation, the exhaust port 43 located on the opposite side faces vertically upward, thus making it easy for the object contained in the second receiving part 62 to return to the flow path R20. In contrast, according to the structure described above, rotating the fan housing 40b causes the exhaust port 43b to face horizontally or vertically downward, thereby making it difficult for the object contained in the second receiving part 62 to return to the flow path R20.

[0080] <Modification: Suction Tube>

[0081] The shape of the suction section is not limited to Figure 2 As shown in the figure. Figure 15 This is another example of a suction section. Figure 15 The suction system 1c shown has, in addition to Figure 2 In addition to the suction device 2 and the receiving part 60 shown, the suction part 10c also includes a suction hose 11c and a rod-shaped component 13c. The suction hose 11c can be installed on the suction port 22 of the volute 20 and is configured to be telescopic. The suction hose 11c is made of a flexible material and is corrugated, for example, so that the tip can move freely.

[0082] The rod-shaped component 13c is configured such that one end is attached to the front end of the suction hose 11c via a fixing component 15c, and the operator can hold the other end. A gripping component 14c is attached to the other end of the rod-shaped component 13c, making it easy for the operator to operate the rod-shaped component 13c.

[0083] exist Figure 2 When the suction unit 10 shown is mounted on the suction device 2, for example, when collecting dust at a height such as a ceiling, the opening 23 of the volute 20 faces vertically upwards, making it difficult to accommodate objects in the first receiving portion 61. In contrast, when the suction unit 10c is mounted on the suction device 2, the rod-shaped member 13c can be operated with the opening 23 facing vertically downwards to bring the suction inlet 12c to a higher position. Thus, according to... Figure 15 For example, compared to the case without the suction section 10c, the suction operation can be easily performed while maintaining the orientation of the opening 23, and as a result, it is possible to prevent the object being suctioned from being difficult to be contained in the first receiving section 61.

[0084] Furthermore, even objects deep within gaps, such as between equipment and walls, can be suctioned by extending the suction hose 11c and inserting its tip into the gap. Conversely, shortening the suction hose 11c reduces suction resistance. Thus, according to the suction system 1c, compared to systems with non-extendable suction hoses, it is easier to suction objects from various locations and reduces the reduction in suction airflow.

[0085] Furthermore, one end of the rod-shaped component 13c is mounted to the front end of the corrugated suction hose 11c via a fixing component 15c, and a gripping component 14c is mounted on the other end. Therefore, compared with a conventional suction device that has a rod-shaped component and a suction port at the front end of the suction hose, the operability of the corrugated suction hose 11c can be effectively utilized, and the overall length from the suction port 12c to the suction port 22 can be shortened, thereby reducing suction resistance.

[0086] <Variation: Receiving Section>

[0087] The shape of the receiving part is not limited to the examples above. Figure 16 This is another example of a receiving section. Figure 16 The suction system 1d shown has, in addition to Figure 15 In addition to the suction unit 10c shown, the device also includes a suction device 2d and a first receiving portion 61d. The volute 20d of the suction device 2d has an opening 23d located in the downward direction of gravity. The first receiving portion 61d is installed in the opening 23d. Therefore, compared to the case where the opening is located differently, the object being suctioned can fall more easily into the first receiving portion 61d located in the downward direction of gravity.

[0088] The first receiving portion 61d is a rectangular box shape. The first receiving portion 61d includes a top cover 611d, a container portion 612d, a fixing portion 613d, and a caster portion 614d. The top cover 611d is fixed to the opening 23d. The container portion 612d is fixed to the top cover 611d by the fixing portion 613d, and can be removed from the top cover 611d even without tools by operating the fixing portion 613d. Therefore, compared to a case where the top cover 611d and the container portion 612d are integrally formed, objects contained in the first receiving portion 61d can be easily disposed of.

[0089] The caster section 614d is a wheel that can be attached and detached from the container section 612d, and three or more (preferably four) are installed to ensure the stability of the suction system 1d when placed on the ground. By bringing the caster section 614d into contact with the ground and rolling the suction system 1d, the operator does not need to support the entire suction system 1d by hand. Compared with the case without casters, the suction system 1d can be moved simply by placing the hand on the handle 53, which improves workability.

[0090] <Variation Example: Offset of the First Receiving Part>

[0091] The installation method of the first receiving part is not limited to the structure described above. Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating another example of the installation method of the first receiving part. Figure 17 The suction device 2e of the suction system 1e shown includes a volute 20e and a first receiving portion 61e. The volute 20e includes a frame 21e, an opening 23e, and a mounting portion 24e.

[0092] The frame 21e has a flow path R212e formed inside. The opening 23e is located outside the flow path R212e in the centrifugal direction D2. The first receiving portion 61e is mounted to the opening 23e via the mounting portion 24e, but not with… Figure 5 In different examples, when viewed from the rear, the imaginary line L3, which passes through the center of the flow path R212e in the left and right directions, and the imaginary line L4, which passes through the center of the first receiving part 61e in the left and right directions, are offset in the left and right directions, that is, they are offset in the left and right directions.

[0093] By offsetting the first receiving portion 61e in this way, the air flowing into the interior of the first receiving portion 61e from the flow path R212e via the opening 23e flows along the inner side of the first receiving portion 61e inside the volute 20e, creating a swirling flow. Thus, compared to the case where the first receiving portion is not offset, it is possible to suppress the backflow of objects from the first receiving portion 61e to the flow path R212e.

[0094] <Variations: Other Structures>

[0095] The suction system 1 is not limited to the structure described above. For example, the suction system 1 may not have the second receiving part 62. In this case, a part of the object being suctioned (especially heavy or large objects) is also received in the first receiving part 61, and the object not received in the first receiving part 61 (small and light objects) is discharged from the exhaust port 43.

[0096] Furthermore, the blower fan is not limited to a centrifugal fan; it can also be an axial fan. In this case, the fan housing can be volute-shaped or cylindrical, or other shapes. Even with an axial fan, by generating airflow in the direction of the flow from the connection port 25 of the volute 20, airflow along the flow path R21 is generated inside the volute 20, allowing the sucked-up object to be accommodated from the opening 23 into the first accommodating portion 61. Additionally, by installing a second accommodating portion 62 at the exhaust port of the fan housing, objects not accommodated in the first accommodating portion 61 can be accommodated.

[0097] Furthermore, in the suction system 1, the volute 20 and the fan housing 40 are connected via the connecting part 30, but they can also be directly connected without using the connecting part 30. Additionally, the receiving parts (first receiving part and second receiving part) are containers of a non-deformable shape as described in the above examples, but they can also be deformable containers such as plastic bags or nets. The receiving parts can be of any shape as long as they can maintain the state of containing the flowing-in object.

[0098] Furthermore, the suction unit is not limited to the suction units described above (suction unit 10 and suction unit 10a). It may be longer or shorter than suction unit 10. Additionally, suction unit 10 may be detachable from suction device 2 or integrated with suction device 2. Furthermore, the suction system 1 may be a portable type used by the operator during operation, or a fixed type used in a fixed location. In either case, by having a structure with an opening in the volute connected to the fan housing upstream of the blower fan, objects subjected to centrifugal force are discharged from the opening out of the flow path. Therefore, compared to cases without this structure, the generation of unpleasant noise caused by the suctioned object or the vibration of the handle 53 can be suppressed.

[0099] Furthermore, the text describes a case where the centrifugal fan 44 and motor 45 are housed within an internal space formed by covering the frame 41, but it is also possible to assemble the centrifugal fan 44 and motor 45 inside the frame 41. Additionally, the text describes a second housing 62 made of a filter material such as non-woven fabric or a dust bag, but the second housing 62 can also be a container with a bottom shape within a cylinder; it can be a container with a quadrilateral, triangular, or elliptical bottom shape, as long as it can hold objects. In this case, it is preferable that the second housing 62, like the first housing 61, has rigidity to the point that it will not deform due to the weight of the contained objects, and is as lightweight as possible. However, it is necessary to provide an air hole in the second housing 62 to discharge the incoming air. Preferably, this air hole is provided, for example, vertically, to make it difficult for contained dust and other debris to escape to the outside.

[0100] Furthermore, it can also be provided in the following ways.

[0101] (1) A suction device comprising: a volute having a suction port; and a fan housing having an internal fan and an exhaust port, wherein the suction device is characterized in that the volute and the fan housing together form a flow path from the suction port to the exhaust port, the volute is connected to the fan housing on the upstream side of the flow path, and an opening is provided on the outer side in the centrifugal direction, the opening being capable of housing a first receiving portion, the first receiving portion accommodating an object that has been suctioned from the suction port by the air flow generated by the fan in the flow path and has passed through the opening.

[0102] In this way, it is possible to suppress the generation of unpleasant sounds or vibrations of the handle caused by the suctioned object.

[0103] (2) The suction device according to (1) above, wherein the exhaust port is configured to accommodate a second receiving portion, the second receiving portion accommodating the object being suctioned that was not accommodated in the first receiving portion.

[0104] This method also allows for the storage of light objects.

[0105] (3) The suction device according to (2) above, wherein the exhaust port is configured such that when the suction port is facing the front of the suction device, the exhaust port faces the rear.

[0106] In this way, the second compartment can be made less likely to become an obstacle.

[0107] (4) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein a prevention part for preventing the suctioned object from moving is provided between the opening of the flow path and the air supply fan.

[0108] This method allows large objects to avoid touching the fan.

[0109] (5) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (4) above, wherein the central portion of the volute is connected to the fan housing.

[0110] This method can reduce energy loss caused by air movement between the shells.

[0111] (6) The suction device according to (5) above, wherein the fan housing is in the shape of a volute, and the central part of the fan housing is connected to the volute.

[0112] This approach can further reduce energy loss caused by air movement between the shells.

[0113] (7) The suction device according to (6) above, wherein the volute and the fan housing are configured to be adjustable relative to each other in the circumferential direction.

[0114] In this way, regardless of the angle of the suction device, it is difficult for objects to remain in the fan housing.

[0115] (8) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (7) above, wherein the opening is configured to be adjustable in position in the circumferential direction of the volute.

[0116] In this way, regardless of the angle of the suction device, the object can be easily discharged from the opening.

[0117] (9) A suction system, characterized in that it comprises: a suction device as described in any one of (1) to (8) above; a first receiving portion, the first receiving portion being installable in the opening portion; and a second receiving portion, the second receiving portion being installable in the exhaust port.

[0118] (10) The suction system according to (9) above further includes a suction hose and a rod-shaped component, wherein the suction hose can be installed at the suction port and is configured to be telescopic, and the rod-shaped component is configured such that one end is installed at the front end of the suction hose and the operator can hold the other end.

[0119] In this way, suction operations can be easily performed with the opening facing vertically downwards.

[0120] Of course, this is not the only option. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments and variations can be combined in any way to implement the project.

[0121] As described above, various embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated, but they are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the invention in any way. This novel embodiment can be implemented in various other ways, with various omissions, substitutions, and modifications possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. This embodiment and its variations are included within the scope or spirit of the invention, and are also included within the scope of the invention as described in the claims and its equivalents.

Claims

1. A suction device, comprising: A volute, the volute having a suction port; and The fan housing has an internal air supply fan and an exhaust port. The suction device is characterized in that... The volute and the fan housing together form a flow path from the suction port to the exhaust port. The volute is connected to the fan housing on the upstream side of the flow path, and an opening is provided on the outer side in the centrifugal direction. The opening can accommodate a first receiving portion, which receives an object that has passed through the opening from the suction port due to the airflow generated in the flow path by the air supply fan.

2. The suction device according to claim 1, wherein, The exhaust port is configured to accommodate a second receiving portion, which receives objects from the suctioned objects that were not received in the first receiving portion.

3. The suction device according to claim 2, wherein, The exhaust port is configured such that when the suction port is facing the front of the suction device, the exhaust port faces the rear.

4. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, Between the opening of the flow path and the air supply fan, there is a preventive part to prevent the sucked-up object from moving.

5. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The central portion of the volute is connected to the fan housing.

6. The suction device according to claim 5, wherein, The fan housing is volute-shaped. The central portion of the fan housing is connected to the volute.

7. The suction device according to claim 6, wherein, The volute and the fan housing are configured to be adjustable in their relative positions in the circumferential direction.

8. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The opening is configured to be adjustable in position in the circumferential direction of the volute.

9. A suction system, characterized in that, have: The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 8; A first receiving portion, the first receiving portion being installable in the opening; and A second receiving portion may be installed in the exhaust port.

10. The suction system according to claim 9, wherein, It also features a suction hose and a rod-shaped component. The suction hose can be installed at the suction port and is configured to be retractable. The rod-shaped component is configured such that one end is mounted on the front end of the suction tubing, and the operator can hold the other end.

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