Stirrer for vacuum cleaner

Abstract

An agitator for a vacuum cleaner includes an agitator body (40, 280, 360, 3758, 6001) and an elastically deformable flap (62, 280, 3752, 490, 5200, 560, 6004). The elastically deformable flap includes a front face (4808, 4908), a rear face (4909), and one or more protrusions (1903, 6402) extending outwardly from the front face (4808, 4908). An agitator (18, 200, 504, 1300, 1500, 1600, 2280, 375, 6000) for a vacuum cleaner (10, 380) includes an agitator body (40, 2280, 360, 375, 6001) and a bristle strip (1304, 1502, 3754) and / or a plurality of tufts (6002) arranged in one or more rows along the agitator body (40, 2280, 360, 375, 6001). The bristle strip (1304, 1502, 3754) and / or the plurality of tufts (6002) comprises a first bristle group (6102) and at least a second bristle group (6104), the first bristle group (6102) comprises a plurality of nylon bristles, and the at least second bristle group (6104) comprises a plurality of para-aramid bristles.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application is a continuation application of PCT application PCT / CN22 / 101930, filed on Jun. 28, 2022. The PCT application is a partial continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 466,242, filed on Sep. 3, 2021, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63 / 074,719, filed on Sep. 4, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62 / 077,386, filed on Sep. 11, 2020. All of the above applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. This application is also a partial continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No. 16 / 656,930, filed on Oct. 18, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to a vacuum cleaner, and more particularly to a vacuum cleaner that includes a system for migrating and / or removing debris from an agitator. Background Art

[0004] Vacuum cleaners can be used to clean various surfaces. Some vacuum cleaners include a rotating agitator (e.g., a brush roll). While known vacuum cleaners generally effectively collect debris, some debris (e.g., long and thin debris such as hair, fur, etc.) may become entangled in the agitator. Entangled debris may reduce the efficiency of the agitator and may cause damage to the motor, bearings, support structure, and / or drivetrain of the rotating agitator. In addition, due to its entanglement in the bristles, it may be difficult to remove the entangled debris from the agitator. Summary of the Utility Model

[0005] This application provides an agitator for a vacuum cleaner, comprising:

[0006] an agitator body; and

[0007] an elastically deformable flap that extends outwardly from the agitator body, the elastically deformable flap comprising:

[0008] a front face;

[0009] a rear face; and

[0010] one or more protrusions that extend outwardly from the front face, wherein the one or more protrusions include a raised portion that extends outwardly from the front face and a recessed portion that extends inwardly from the front face.

[0011] In an alternative embodiment, it further includes a first bristle strip and / or a row of tufts disposed adjacent to the first deformable flap.

[0012] In another alternative embodiment, the one or more protrusions include a first set of protrusions arranged in a first row.

[0013] In another alternative embodiment, the one or more protrusions include a second set of protrusions arranged in a second row.

[0014] In another alternative embodiment, the first row and the second row are substantially parallel to each other.

[0015] In another alternative embodiment, the first set of protrusions in the first row is offset from left to right with respect to the second set of protrusions in the second row.

[0016] In another alternative embodiment, the elastically deformable flap includes a polyester layer and a silicone layer, the polyester layer forming the front face, and the silicone layer forming at least a part of the back face.

[0017] In another alternative embodiment, the one or more protrusions are formed only in the polyester layer.

[0018] In another alternative embodiment, it further includes a surface layer coupled to a backing layer, the surface layer forming the front face, and the backing layer forming the back face.

[0019] In another alternative embodiment, at least a part of the surface layer is melted to at least partially form the one or more protrusions.

[0020] In another alternative embodiment, the melted surface layer forms one or more protrusions having a local hardness.

[0021] In another alternative embodiment, a part of the melted surface layer flows away from the surface layer to form the raised portion and the recessed portion.

[0022] In another alternative embodiment, only a part of the surface layer is melted to form the one or more protrusions.

[0023] In another alternative embodiment, it further includes a surface layer coupled to a backing layer through one or more intermediate layers, wherein at least a part of the intermediate layer is melted to at least partially form the one or more protrusions.

[0024] In another alternative embodiment, at least a part of the surface layer is melted to form at least a part of the one or more protrusions.

[0025] In another alternative embodiment, the first row is arranged at 1.75 mm +0.50 / -0.60 mm from the cleaning edge of the elastically deformable flap.

[0026] In another alternative embodiment, the one or more protrusions include a raised portion extending outwardly from the front face, the raised portion having a generally annular shape.

[0027] In another alternative embodiment, the one or more protrusions include a raised portion extending outwardly from the front face, the raised portion having a generally annulus shape.

[0028] In another alternative embodiment, the one or more protrusions have an outer diameter of the annulus of 2.20 mm + / - 0.30 mm.

[0029] In another alternative embodiment, the first set of protrusions has a center-to-center distance of the protrusions of 5.00 mm. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Embodiments are illustrated by way of example in the drawings, where like reference numerals indicate like parts, and wherein:

[0031] Figure 1 is a bottom view of an embodiment of a vacuum cleaner consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the vacuum cleaner taken along line II-II consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 ;

[0033] Figure 3 generally shows an example of a hair migration system consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 4 generally shows a perspective cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a grooming unit taken along Figure 1 line IV-IV;

[0035] Figure 5 generally shows a cross-sectional view of a grooming unit taken along Figure 1 line IV-IV Figure 4 ;

[0036] Figure 6 generally shows a cross-sectional view of a grooming unit taken along Figure 2 line VI-VI Figure 4 ;

[0037] Figure 7 generally shows a cross-sectional view of a grooming unit taken along Figure 2 line VI-VI of another embodiment of the grooming unit;

[0038] Figure 7AA perspective view showing an example of a carding unit having teeth in a central region, the teeth having a length measured to be greater than the length of the teeth in the lateral (or end) region, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 8 Generally shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a plurality of segmented agitator chambers of a Figure 1 vacuum cleaner taken along line II-II;

[0040] Figure 9 is a side view of an agitator that can be used with a Figure 1 vacuum cleaner in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 10 Shows a schematic view of a plurality of ribs of an agitator configured to engage (e.g., contact) Figure 9 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 11 Shows a schematic view of a plurality of ribs of an agitator configured to engage (e.g., contact) the agitator in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 12 Shows a schematic cross-sectional end view of a surface cleaning head in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 13 Shows a Figure 12 cross-sectional perspective view of a surface cleaning head in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 14 Shows a perspective view of a surface cleaning head in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure 14A Shows a perspective view of an example of an agitator cover in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0047] Figure 14B Shows a perspective view of a part of a robotic cleaner having an agitator cover 14A attached thereto in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 15 Shows an agitator cover that can be used with a Figure 14 surface cleaning head in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 16 Shows a Figure 15 bottom view of an agitator cover in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 17Shows a perspective view of a blender lid that can be used with a Figure 14 surface cleaning head in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 18 Shows a bottom view of a Figure 17 blender lid in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0052] Figure 19 Shows a side view of a rib in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0053] Figure 20 Shows a schematic view of a blender having a flap and bristles in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] Figure 21 Shows a schematic view of a blender having bristles in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0055] Figure 22 Shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a blender having an end cap in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0056] Figure 23 Shows a Figure 22 schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary blender having ribs that extend along a portion of the blender and are disposed between end caps in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0057] Figure 24 Shows a perspective view of an end cap of a blender in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0058] Figure 25 Shows a Figure 24 different perspective view of an end cap in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0059] Figure 26 Shows a perspective view of an end cap of a blender in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0060] Figure 27 Shows a Figure 26 different perspective view of an end cap in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0061] Figure 27A Shows a perspective view of an end cap of a blender in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0062] Figure 27B Shows a perspective view of a surface cleaning head having an end cap coupled thereto in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 27A in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0063] Figure 28 Is a front view of another example of a blender in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0064] Figure 29 a cross-sectional view of an agitator taken along line 29-29 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 28

[0065] Figure 30 shows an example of an elongate body of an agitator without baffles in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 29

[0066] Figure 31A shows another example of an elongate body of an agitator in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 30

[0067] Figure 31B shows a close-up of an end of a baffle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 31A

[0068] Figure 32 shows an example of a baffle without an elongate body in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 29

[0069] Figure 33 shows another example of a baffle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 32

[0070] Figure 34 shows an example of a baffle with a portion removed to form a cone in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0071] Figure 35 shows another example of a baffle having a base configured to form a cone in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0072] Figure 36 shows an example of an agitator in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, the agitator having baffles disposed at a non-vertical angle relative to the agitator body;

[0073] Figure 37 shows another example of an end cap having a plurality of ribs for engaging the distal end of a baffle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0074] Figure 37A shows a perspective view of an agitator in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0075] Figure 37B shows a cross-sectional view of an agitator having passive angled bristles and active angled baffles in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0076] Figure 37C ​​​​​​Shows a perspective view of a blender consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0077] Figure 37D Shows a perspective view of a cleaner with a bristle comb consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0078] Figure 37E Shows a Figure 37A -D cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner including a leading roller and a blender consistent with an embodiment;

[0079] Figure 37F Shows a side view of a deformable flap including one or more holes consistent with the present disclosure;

[0080] Figure 37G Shows various cross-sections of bristles consistent with the present disclosure;

[0081] Figure 38 Shows another example of a vacuum cleaner consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0082] Figure 39 Shows a Figure 38 example of a hand-held vacuum portion including a trigger;

[0083] Figure 40 Shows a Figure 38 example of a hand-held vacuum portion including an air flow path extending therethrough;

[0084] Figure 41 Generally shows an example of a close-up of a debris collection chamber fixed to the body of a hand-held vacuum portion consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0085] Figure 42 Generally shows an example of a close-up of a debris collection chamber not fixed to the body of a hand-held vacuum portion consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0086] Figure 43 Generally shows an example of a debris collection chamber and a primary filter consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0087] Figure 44 Generally shows an example of a debris collection chamber and a primary filter with the lid open consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 43 ;

[0088] Figure 45 Generally shows an example of a secondary filter consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0089] Figure 46Generally shows an example of a front motor filter consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0090] Figure 47 Generally shows an example of a rear motor filter consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0091] Figure 48 Generally shows an embodiment of a robotic vacuum cleaner, which may include one or more features described in the present disclosure;

[0092] Figure 49 Generally shows a perspective view of another embodiment of an elastically deformable flap consistent with the present disclosure;

[0093] Figure 50A Generally shows Figure 49 a side view of the elastically deformable flap;

[0094] Figure 50B Generally shows Figure 49 a cross-sectional view of the elastically deformable flap;

[0095] Figure 50C Generally shows Figure 50B an enlarged view of the protrusion;

[0096] Figure 51 Generally shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an elastically deformable flap consistent with the present disclosure;

[0097] Figure 52 Generally shows the various dimensions of an example of an elastically deformable flap consistent with the present disclosure;

[0098] Figure 53 Generally is Figure 52 the various dimensions of the elastically deformable flap;

[0099] Figure 54 Generally shows the various dimensions of an example of an elastically deformable flap consistent with the present disclosure;

[0100] Figure 55 Generally is Figure 53 the various dimensions of the elastically deformable flap;

[0101] Figure 56 Generally shows a perspective view of an example of a stirrer with a body and a plurality of brush strips and / or a plurality of tufts of hair consistent with the present disclosure;

[0102] Figure 57 Generally shows Figure 56 a cross-sectional view of the body and the plurality of brush strips and / or the plurality of tufts of hair;

[0103] Figure 58 Exemplary tests generally showing the power spectral density are shown;

[0104] Figure 59 Exemplary tests generally showing psychoacoustics over time are shown; and

[0105] Figure 60 An example of an elastically deformable flap including a plurality of molded protrusions is generally shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0106] Although the manufacture and use of various embodiments of the present disclosure are discussed in detail below, it should be understood that the present disclosure provides many applicable inventive concepts that can be implemented in a variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways of manufacturing and using the present disclosure and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0107] The present disclosure generally relates to a stirrer for a surface treatment device. The stirrer includes a body and a deformable flap extending from the body. The deformable flap includes one or more cones extending within corresponding end regions of the deformable flap. The stirrer is configured to be received within a stirrer chamber of a surface treatment device such that the stirrer can rotate within the stirrer chamber. Rotation of the stirrer causes the deformable flap to engage a surface to be cleaned (e.g., a floor) such that debris deposited thereon may be disturbed by the deformable flap. In operation, the one or more cones may facilitate the migration of fibrous debris (e.g., hair) along the longitudinal axis of the body towards a common location (e.g., a removal location).

[0108] Now turning to Figure 1 and 2 , an embodiment of a vacuum cleaner 10 is generally shown. The term vacuum cleaner 10 is intended to refer to any type of vacuum cleaner, including but not limited to a manually operated vacuum cleaner and a robotic vacuum cleaner. Non-limiting examples of manually operated vacuum cleaners include upright vacuum cleaners, canister vacuum cleaners, stick vacuum cleaners, and central vacuum systems. Thus, while various aspects of the present disclosure may be shown and / or described in the context of a manually operated vacuum cleaner or a robotic vacuum cleaner, it should be understood that the features disclosed herein apply to both manually operated vacuum cleaners and robotic vacuum cleaners unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0109] With this in mind, Figure 1 A bottom view of the vacuum cleaner 10 is generally shown, Figure 2 A cross-section of the vacuum cleaner 10 taken along line II-II is generally shown. It should be understood that Figure 1 and Figure 1 and 2The vacuum cleaner 10 shown is for exemplary purposes only, and a vacuum cleaner consistent with the present disclosure may not include Figure 1 and 2 all of the features shown in Figure 1 and 2 and / or may include additional features not shown in

[0110] For exemplary purposes only, the vacuum cleaner 10 may include a cleaning head (which may also be referred to as a nozzle and / or cleaning nozzle) 12, and optionally a handle 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 14 is pivotally coupled to the cleaning head 12 such that a user can grasp the handle 14 while standing to move the cleaning head 12 across a surface 114 to be cleaned (e.g., a floor) using one or more wheels 16. However, it should be understood that the cleaning head 12 and the handle 14 may be an integrated or unitary structure (e.g., a handheld vacuum cleaner). Alternatively, the handle 14 may be eliminated (e.g., in a robotic vacuum cleaner). Figure 2 ) rotate. The rotation system 24 may be at least partially disposed within the vacuum head 12 and / or the handle 14 and may include one or more motors 26 (e.g., AC and / or DC motors) that are coupled to one or more belts and / or gear trains 28 for rotating the agitator 18.

[0111] The vacuum cleaner 10 includes a debris collection chamber 30 that is in fluid communication with the agitator chamber 22, enabling the storage of debris collected by the rotating agitator 18. The agitator chamber 22 and the debris chamber 30 can be fluidly coupled to a vacuum source 32 (e.g., a suction motor, etc.) for creating an air flow (e.g., a partial vacuum) in the agitator chamber 22 and the debris collection chamber 30, thereby sucking up debris near the agitator chamber 22 and / or the agitator 18. As can be appreciated, the rotation of the agitator 18 can assist in agitating / loosening debris from the cleaning surface. Optionally, one or more filters 34 can be provided to remove any debris (e.g., dust particles, etc.) entrained in the vacuum air flow. The debris chamber 30, the vacuum source 32, and / or the filter 34 can be at least partially located in the cleaning head 12 and / or the handle 14. Additionally, one or more suction tubes, ducts, etc. 36 can be provided to fluidly couple the debris chamber 30, the vacuum source 32, and / or the filter 34. For example, the suction tube 36 can include a suction inlet and / or a suction opening 33, Figure 2 , which separates the suction tube 36 from the agitation chamber 22 (e.g., it is the inlet of the suction tube 36 from the agitation chamber 22). The vacuum cleaner 10 can include and / or be configured to be electrically coupled to one or more power sources, such as but not limited to a wire / plug, a battery (e.g., a rechargeable and / or non-rechargeable battery), and / or a circuit (e.g., an AC / DC converter, a voltage regulator, a step-up / step-down transformer, etc.) to supply power to various components of the vacuum cleaner 10 (such as but not limited to the rotating system 24 and / or the vacuum source 32).

[0112] The agitator 18 includes an elongated agitator body 40 that is configured to extend along a longitudinal / pivot axis 20 and rotate about that axis. The agitator 18 (e.g., but not limited to one or more of the ends of the agitator 18) is permanently or removably coupled to the vacuum head 12 and can be rotated about the pivot axis 20 by a rotating system 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated agitator body 40 has a generally cylindrical cross-section, but other cross-sectional shapes (e.g., but not limited to oval, hexagonal, rectangular, octagonal, concave, convex, etc.) are also possible. The agitator 18 can have bristles, fabric, felt, tufts, fuzz, and / or other cleaning elements (or any combination thereof) 42 around the exterior of the elongated agitator body 40. Examples of brush rollers and other agitators 18 are shown and described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 9,456,723 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0220082, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0113] When the agitator 18 rotates within the agitation chamber 22, the agitator 18 can come into contact with elongated (or fibrous) debris, such as but not limited to hair, string, etc. The fibrous debris 44 can have a length that is much longer than the diameter of the agitator 18. By way of non-limiting example, the fibrous debris 44 may have a length that is 2 - 10 times longer than the diameter of the agitator 18. Due to the rotation of the agitator 18 and the length and flexibility of the fibrous debris 44, the fibrous debris 44 will tend to wrap around the diameter of the agitator 18.

[0114] As may be appreciated, an excessive accumulation of fibrous debris 44 on the agitator 18 can reduce the efficiency of the agitator 18 and / or cause damage to the vacuum cleaner 10 (e.g., the rotation system 24, etc.). To address the problem of the fibrous debris 44 wrapping around the agitator 18, the vacuum cleaner 10 can include one or more hair migration systems 49 and / or one or more grooming units 50 (also referred to as cleaners) that are at least partially disposed within the agitation chamber 22. As explained herein, the hair migration system 49 can be configured to move at least some of the fibrous debris 44 that is wrapped around the agitator 18 along the agitator 18 (and optionally remove it from the agitator 18) when the agitator 18 rotates about the pivot axis 20. The grooming unit 50 (which can optionally be used in combination with the hair migration system 49) can be configured to dislodge at least some of the fibrous debris 44 that is wrapped around the agitator 18, where the dislodged fibrous debris 44 can be entrained in the suction air flow, through the suction tube 36, and ultimately reach the debris collection chamber 30. The hair migration system 49 can include one or more ribs 116, bristles 60, and / or sidewalls 62 (e.g., elastically deformable sidewalls / flaps). At least one rib 116 (shown in dashed lines) can extend within the surface cleaning head 12 and can be configured to engage (e.g., contact) the agitator 18 such that the fibrous debris can be pushed to one or more predetermined locations on the agitator 18. For example, at least one rib 116 can extend transversely (e.g., at a non-perpendicular angle) to the longitudinal axis L of the agitator 18 such that when the fibrous debris becomes entangled around the agitator 18, the fibrous debris engages (e.g., contacts) the rib 116 and is pushed to a predetermined location along the agitator 18. Although the vacuum cleaner 10 is shown with both the hair migration system 49 and the grooming unit 50, it should be understood that some examples of the vacuum cleaner 10 may include only the hair migration system 49 or the grooming unit 50.

[0115] Now turning to Figure 3, generally shows an example of a hair migration system 49. The hair migration system 49 may include a plurality of bristles 60 aligned in one or more rows or strips on the agitator 18. Alternatively (or additionally), the hair migration system 49 may include one or more sidewalls and / or continuous sidewalls (which may be referred to as flaps or elastically deformable flaps in some examples) 62 adjacent to at least one row of bristles 60. These rows of bristles 60 and / or continuous sidewalls 62 are configured to reduce hair entanglement in the bristles 60 of the agitator 18. Optionally, the combination of the bristles and sidewalls 62 may be configured to generate an Archimedes screw force that pushes / causes the hair to migrate towards one or more collection areas of the agitator 18 (such as, but not limited to, the central area 41 of the agitator 18). The bristles 60 may include a plurality of bristle tufts 60 arranged in rows and / or one or more rows of continuous bristles 60.

[0116] A plurality of bristles 60 extend outwardly (such as, generally radially outwardly) from the elongated agitator body 40 (such as, the base portion) to define one or more continuous rows. One or more rows of the continuous rows of bristles 60 may be coupled (permanently or removably coupled) to the elongated agitator body 40 using one or more shape-locking connections (such as, but not limited to, tongue and groove connections, T-slot connections, etc.), interference connections (such as, interference fit, press fit, friction fit, Morse taper, etc.), adhesives, fasteners, overmolding, etc.

[0117] These rows of bristles 60 rotate at least partially around and extend along at least a portion of the longitudinal axis / pivot axis 20 of the elongated agitator body 40 of the agitator 18. As defined herein, the continuous rows of bristles 60 are defined as a plurality of bristles 60, wherein the spacing along the rotation axis 20 between adjacent bristles 60 is less than or equal to 3 times the maximum cross-sectional dimension (such as, diameter) of the bristles 60.

[0118] As mentioned above, the plurality of bristles 60 are aligned with and / or define at least one row that rotates at least partially around and extends along at least a portion of the longitudinal axis / pivot axis 20 of the elongated agitator body 40 of the agitator 18. For example, at least one of these rows of bristles 60 may be arranged in a generally helical, arcuate, and / or V-shaped configuration / pattern / shape. Optionally, one or more of these rows of bristles 60 (such as, the entire row or a portion thereof) may have a constant spacing (such as, a constant helical spacing). Alternatively (or additionally), one or more of these rows of bristles 60 (such as, the entire row or a portion thereof) may have a variable spacing (such as, a variable helical spacing). For example, at least a portion of these rows of bristles 60 may have a variable spacing that is configured to accelerate the migration of the hair and / or generally direct debris towards a desired location (such as, the central area 41 of the agitator 18 and / or towards the primary inlet 33 of the suction pipe 36).

[0119] In one example, at least one row of bristles 60 may be arranged to be close to (e.g., adjacent to) at least one sidewall 62. The sidewall 62 may be arranged as close as possible to the nearest row of bristles 60 while still allowing the bristles 60 to freely bend from left to right. For example, one or more of the sidewalls 62 may extend substantially continuously along the row of bristles 60. In one embodiment, the sidewall 62 may have a length that is at least as long as the length of an adjacent row of bristles 60. The sidewall 62 may extend generally parallel to at least one of the multiple rows of bristles 60. As used herein, the term "generally parallel" is intended to mean that the separation distance between the sidewall 62 and this row of bristles 60 remains within 25% of the maximum separation distance along the entire longitudinal length of this row of bristles 60, e.g., within 20% of the maximum separation distance along the entire longitudinal length of this row of bristles 60 and / or within 15% of the maximum separation distance along the entire longitudinal length of this row of bristles 60. And, as used herein, the term "adjacent" is intended to mean that no other structural features or elements having a height greater than the height of the sidewall 62 are provided between the sidewall 62 and the nearest row of bristles 60, and the separation distance D between the sidewall 62 and the nearest row of bristles 60 is less than or equal to 5 mm (e.g., less than or equal to 3 mm, less than or equal to 2.5 mm, less than or equal to 1.5 mm, and / or any range between 1.5 mm and 3 mm).

[0120] One or more of the sidewalls 62 may thus rotate at least partially about and extend along at least a portion of the longitudinal axis / pivot axis 20 of the elongate agitator body 40 of the agitator 18. For example, at least one of the sidewalls 62 may be arranged in a generally helical, arcuate, and / or V-shaped configuration / pattern / shape. Optionally, one or more of the sidewalls 62 (e.g., an entire row or a portion thereof) may have a constant pitch (e.g., a constant helical pitch). Alternatively (or additionally), one or more of the sidewalls 62 (e.g., an entire row or a portion thereof) may have a variable pitch (e.g., a variable helical pitch).

[0121] Although the agitator 18 is shown as having a row of bristles 60 with the sidewall 62 arranged behind the row of bristles 60 when the agitator 18 rotates about the pivot axis 20, the agitator 18 may include one or more sidewalls 62 in front of the row of bristles 60, behind the row of bristles 60, and / or without the row of bristles 60. As described above, one or more of the sidewalls 62 may be as Figure 3extends outwardly from a portion of the elongate agitator body 40 shown generally in the middle. For example, one or more of the side walls 62 may extend outwardly from the base of the elongate agitator body 40 to which the row of bristles 60 is coupled, and / or may extend outwardly from a portion of the outer perimeter of the elongate agitator body 40. Alternatively (or additionally), one or more of the side walls 62 may extend inwardly from a portion of the elongate agitator body 40. For example, the radially outermost portion of the side wall 62 may be disposed at a radial distance from the pivot axis 20 of the elongate agitator body 40 that is within 20% of the radial distance of the elongate agitator body 40 adjacent the surrounding perimeter, and the innermost portion of the side wall 62 (i.e., the portion of the side wall 62 where it begins to extend away from the base) may be disposed at a radial distance less than the radial distance of the elongate agitator body 40 adjacent the surrounding perimeter. As used herein, the term "adjacent the surrounding perimeter" is intended to refer to the portion of the perimeter of the elongate agitator body 40 that is within 30 degrees of the pivot axis 20.

[0122] In some examples, the agitator 18 may include at least one row of bristles 60 that is generally parallel to at least one of the side walls 62. According to one embodiment, at least a portion (e.g., all) of the bristles 60 in a row may have a total height Hb (e.g., measured from the pivot axis 20) that is longer than the total height Hs (e.g., measured from the pivot axis 20) of at least one of the adjacent side walls 62. Alternatively (or additionally), at least a portion (e.g., all) of the bristles 60 in a row may have a height Hb that is longer than the height Hs of at least one of the adjacent side walls 62, i.e., 2 - 3 mm (e.g., but not limited to 2.5 mm). Alternatively (or additionally), the height Hs of at least one of the adjacent side walls 62 may be 60% to 100% of the height Hb of at least a portion (e.g., all) of the bristles 60 in the row. For example, the bristles 60 may have a height Hb in the range of 12 to 32 mm (e.g., but not limited to, in the range of 18 to 20.5 mm), and the adjacent side walls 62 may have a height Hs in the range of 10 to 29 mm (e.g., but not limited to, in the range of 15 to 18 mm).

[0123] The bristles 60 may have a height Hb that extends at least 2 mm beyond the most distal end of the sidewall 62. The sidewall 62 may have a height Hs that is at least 2 mm from the base and may have a height Hs that is at most 50% or less of the height Hb of the bristles 60. At least one sidewall 62 may be positioned close enough to at least one row of bristles 60 to increase the stiffness of the bristles 60 (e.g., reduce the range or movement) in at least one front-to-back direction when the agitator 18 rotates during normal use. The sidewall 62 may thus allow the bristles 60 to flex more freely in at least one lateral direction than in the front-to-back direction. For example, the bristles 60 may be 25%-40% stiffer (including all values and ranges therein) in the front-to-back direction than in the lateral direction. According to one embodiment, the sidewall 62 may be positioned adjacent (e.g., immediately adjacent) to the row of bristles 60. For example, the most distal end of the sidewall 62 (i.e., the end of the sidewall 62 that is farthest from the center of rotation PA) may be 0-10 mm from the row of bristles 60, such as 1-9 mm from the row of bristles 60, 2-7 mm from the row of bristles 60, and / or 1-5 mm from the row of bristles 60, including all ranges and values therein.

[0124] In another example, at least a portion (e.g., all) of the bristles 60 in a row may have a total height Hb that is shorter than the total height Hs of at least one of the adjacent sidewalls 62. Alternatively (or additionally), at least a portion (e.g., all) of the bristles 60 in a row may have a height Hb that is shorter than the height Hs of at least one of the adjacent sidewalls 62, i.e., 2-3 mm (e.g., but not limited to, 2.5 mm). Alternatively (or additionally), the height Hb of at least a portion (e.g., all) of the bristles 60 in a row may be 60% to 100% of the height Hs of at least one of the adjacent sidewalls 62. For example, the bristles 60 may have a height Hb in the range of 10 to 29 mm (e.g., but not limited to, in the range of 15 to 18 mm), and the adjacent sidewall 62 may have a height Hs in the range of 12 to 32 mm (e.g., but not limited to, in the range of 18 to 20.5 mm). The sidewall 62 may have a height Hs that extends at least 2 mm beyond the most distal end of the bristles 60. The bristles may have a height Hb that is at least 2 mm from the base and may have a height Hb that is at most 50% or less of the height Hs of the sidewall 62.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the sidewall 62 includes a flexible and / or elastic material and can generally be referred to as a flap and / or an elastically deformable flap. Examples of flexible and / or elastic materials include (but are not limited to) rubber, silicone, and / or the like. The sidewall 62 can include a combination of a flexible material and a fabric. The combination of the flexible material and the fabric can reduce wear of the sidewall 62, thereby increasing the service life of the sidewall 62, and provide an additional method for cleaning and agitation. The rubber can include natural and / or synthetic rubber and can be a thermoplastic and / or a thermosetting plastic. The rubber and / or silicone can be combined with a polyester fabric and / or a nylon fabric (such as PA66). In one embodiment, the sidewall 62 can include cast rubber and a fabric (such as, a polyester fabric). The cast rubber can include natural rubber cast with the polyester fabric. Alternatively (or additionally), the cast rubber can include polyurethane (such as but not limited to PU 45 Shore A) and be cast with the polyester fabric.

[0126] Since the sidewall 62 can be assembled in a helical path, it may be necessary for the top edge and the bottom edge of the sidewall 62 to follow different helical portions having different helical radii, respectively. When selecting a flexible material with a reinforcement to meet the life requirements, the stretching required along these edges should be considered so that the position of the sidewall 62 after assembly is consistent with the different helical radii and helical paths of each edge (since the fibrous material of the composite sidewall 62 can reduce the flexibility of the sidewall 62). If this requirement is not met, the distal end of the sidewall 62 may not be positioned at a constant distance from the bristles 60 (such as, within 10 mm as described herein). Thus, the geometry and material selection of the sidewall 62 can be chosen to meet the spatial / position requirements of the sidewall 62, the flexibility required to perform the anti-wrapping function, and the durability to withstand the normal use of the vacuum cleaner. The addition of the fabric can be used for higher agitator speed applications (such as but not limited to, upright vacuum applications).

[0127] The agitator 18 (e.g., the bristles 60 and / or the sidewall 62) should be aligned within the agitator chamber 22 such that the bristles 60 and / or the sidewall 62 can contact the surface to be cleaned. The bristles 60 and / or the sidewall 62 should be stiff enough in at least one direction to engage the surface to be cleaned (e.g., but not limited to, carpet fibers) without undesirable bending (e.g., stiff enough to agitate debris from the carpet), but also soft enough to allow lateral bending. The size (e.g., height Hs) and position of the sidewall 62 relative to the row of bristles 60 can be configured to substantially prevent and / or reduce hair from becoming tangled around the base or bottom of the bristles 60. The bristles 60 can be sized such that they sweep the floor during use when used on a hard floor. However, when the surface cleaning device 10 is on a carpet, the wheels will sink and the bristles 60 and / or the sidewall 62 will penetrate the carpet. The length of the bristles 60 and / or the sidewall 62 can be selected such that they always contact the floor, regardless of the floor surface. Additional details of the agitator 18 (e.g., but not limited to, the bristles 60 and / or the sidewall 62) are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0070785, titled "Agitator for Hair Removal," filed on September 8, 2017, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0128] As mentioned herein, the hair migration system 49 (e.g., a combination of the bristles 60 and / or the sidewall 62) can be configured to migrate the fiber debris 44 in a desired and / or target direction and / or to migrate the fiber debris to a desired location. According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the hair migration system 49 is configured to migrate the fiber debris 44 towards the grooming unit 50 and / or towards the area of the agitator 18 proximate the inlet of the suction tube 36, which inlet is fluidly coupled to the agitation chamber 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the hair migration system 49 is configured to migrate the fiber debris 44 towards the central region 41 of the agitator 18 (e.g., which is accessible to the grooming unit 50) and the primary inlet 33 of the suction tube 36 ( Figures 4 - 6 ) when the agitator 18 rotates within the agitator chamber 22. For example, the hair migration system 49 can be configured to migrate the fiber debris 44 along the agitator 18 towards the grooming unit 50 to allow the grooming unit 50 to remove the fiber debris 44 from the agitator 18, whereby the fiber debris 44 can be entrained in the suction air stream and enter the suction tube 36.

[0129] In at least one example, the hair migration system 49 can include a first hair migration section and at least second (e.g., left and right) hair migration sections 66, 67. Each hair migration section 66, 67 can include one or more sidewalls 62 and / or bristles 60 generally described herein. The sidewalls 62 and / or bristles 60 of one or more of the hair migration sections 66, 67 can have a generally helical pattern and / or a generally V-shaped pattern. According to one aspect, at least a portion of the hair migration sections 66, 67 can partially overlap in an overlap region 69. In the example shown, only the sidewalls 62 overlap; however, it should be understood that only the bristles 60 can overlap and / or both the sidewalls 62 and the bristles 60 can partially overlap. As used herein, when the agitator 18 rotates within the agitator chamber 22 about the pivot axis 20, the hair migration sections 66, 67 are considered to overlap if the sidewalls 62 and / or bristles 60 of adjacent hair migration sections 66, 67 cross a radial cross-section. The amount and / or degree of overlap (i.e., the size of the overlap region 69) can vary according to the intended application. For example, the size of the overlap region 69 can vary according to the length of the grooming unit 50, the total length of the agitator 18, the rotational speed of the agitator 18, etc. According to one embodiment, the size of the overlap region 69 can be 10 - 30 mm, and the agitator 18 can have a length of 225 mm. According to another embodiment, the size of the overlap region 69 can be 4 - 20% of the length of the agitator 18. Of course, these are merely examples.

[0130] Optionally, the height of one or more of the sidewalls 62 and / or bristles 60 can taper in at least a portion of the overlap region 69. The reduction in the height of the sidewalls 62 and / or bristles 60 in the overlap region 69 can facilitate the removal of fiber debris 44 from the agitator 18 by reducing the compressive force exerted by the fiber debris 44 on the agitator 18.

[0131] Although the hair migration system 49 is shown as having two adjacent hair migration sections 66, 67, each section extending only a portion of the length of the agitator 18 respectively, it should be understood that the hair migration system 49 can have more or fewer than two migration sections 66, 67. For example, the hair migration system 49 can include one or more continuous hair migration sections extending substantially along the entire length of the agitator 18. Specifically, the elongate hair migration section can have a generally helical and / or generally V-shaped pattern that can change direction at a target location to migrate from both ends of the agitator 18 toward the target location.

[0132] Now turning to Figures 4 - 6 , an example of the grooming unit 50 is generally shown. Specifically, Figure 4 a perspective cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV of Figure 1 is generally shown, and for clarity, the agitator 18 is not shown.Figure 5 Generally shows a cross-sectional view taken along the Figure 1 line IV-IV, and Figure 6 generally shows a cross-sectional view taken along the Figure 2 line VI-VI. For clarity, agitator 18 is not shown. Although only a single grooming unit 50 is shown, it should be understood that the vacuum cleaner 10 may include multiple grooming units 50.

[0133] The grooming unit 50 may be at least partially disposed within the agitator chamber 22 and may include a plurality of fingers, ribs, and / or teeth 52 that form a comb-like structure configured to contact a portion of the length of the agitator 18 (e.g., the bristles 60 and / or the sidewall 62 as discussed herein). The fingers 52 are configured to extend (e.g., project) generally toward the agitator 18 from a portion of the vacuum cleaner 10 (such as, but not limited to, the body 13, the agitator chamber 22, the bottom surface 25, and / or the debris collection chamber 30) such that at least a portion of the fingers 52 contacts one or more of the end portions of the bristles 60 and / or the sidewall 62. Rotation of the agitator 18 causes the fingers 52 of the grooming unit 50 to pass between the plurality of bristles 60 and / or contact one or more of the sidewalls 62, thereby preventing hair from tangling on the agitator 18. It should be understood that unless otherwise claimed, the shape or the fingers, ribs, and / or teeth 52 are not limited to those shown and / or described in the present application.

[0134] According to one embodiment, at least some of the fingers 52 (e.g., all of the fingers 52) extend generally toward the agitator 18 such that when the sidewall 62 rotates past the fingers 52, the outermost distal end of the fingers 52 is within 2 mm of the sidewall 62. Thus, the fingers 52 may or may not contact the sidewall 62.

[0135] Alternatively (or additionally), at least some of the fingers 52 (e.g., all of the fingers 52) extend generally toward the agitator 18 such that when the sidewall 62 rotates past the fingers 52, the outermost distal end of the fingers 52 contacts (e.g., overlaps) the sidewall 62. For example, the outermost distal end of the fingers 52 may contact the outermost distal end of the sidewall 62 by up to 3 mm, such as 1-3 mm of the outermost distal end of the sidewall 62, 0.5-3 mm of the outermost distal end of the sidewall 62, up to 2 mm of the outermost distal end of the sidewall 62, and / or 2 mm of the outermost distal end of the sidewall 62, including all ranges and values therebetween.

[0136] The fingers 52 may be placed along all or a portion of the longitudinal length L of the carding unit 50, e.g., spaced evenly or randomly along the longitudinal length L. According to one embodiment, the density of the fingers 52 (e.g., the number of fingers 52 per inch) may range from 0.5 to 16 fingers 52 per inch, e.g., but not limited to, 1 to 16 fingers 52 per inch, 2 to 16 fingers 52 per inch, 4 to 16 fingers 52 per inch, and / or 7 to 9 fingers 52 per inch, including all ranges and values therein. For example, the fingers 52 may have a center-to-center spacing of 2 - 5 mm, 3 - 4 mm, 3.25 mm, 1 - 26 mm, up to 127 mm, up to 102 mm, up to 76 mm, up to 50 mm, 2 - 26 mm, 2 - 50.8 mm, and / or 1.58 - 25.4 mm center-to-center spacing, including all ranges and values therein.

[0137] The width of the fingers 52 (e.g., also referred to as teeth) may be configured to occupy a minimum width constrained by manufacturing and strength requirements. The reduced width of the fingers 52 may minimize wear on the agitator 18 and facilitate airflow between the fingers 52 for cleaning hair. The common width of the plastic fingers 52 may be 30% or less of the total width of the carding unit 50, especially when the carding unit 50 is plastic.

[0138] The width of the fingers 52 along the profile and the brush roller axis 20 may be based on structural and molding requirements. The profile of the distal end of the fingers 52 may be arcuate (e.g., circular) or may form a sharp end (e.g., the front and rear edges may intersect at an inflection point to form an acute angle). According to one embodiment, the profile of the distal end of the fingers 52 may be rounded and smooth based on material and production factors. For example, for an agitator 18 with a 28 mm diameter, the diameter of the profile of the distal end of the fingers 52 may be 0.6 - 2.5 mm (e.g., but not limited to, 1 - 2 mm diameter and / or 1.6 mm diameter).

[0139] The root clearance of the fingers 52 (e.g., the transition between adjacent fingers 52) may have a radial clearance of 0 to 25% of the major diameter of the agitator 18. For example, the root clearance of the fingers 52 may be 2 - 7% of the major diameter of the agitator 18, e.g., but not limited to, 3 - 6% of the major diameter of the agitator 18 and / or 5.4% of the major diameter of the agitator 18. As a non-limiting example, the root clearance of the fingers 52 may be a 1.5 mm clearance for a 28 mm agitator 18.

[0140] Although the fingers 52 are shown as being spaced apart in a direction extending along the longitudinal length L of the grooming unit 50 generally parallel to the pivot axis 20 of the agitator 18, it should be understood that all or a portion of the fingers 52 may extend along one or more axes (e.g., multiple axes) in one or more directions transverse to the pivot axis 20 (e.g., but not limited to a V-shape).

[0141] The grooming unit 50 extends only across a portion of the length of the agitation chamber 22, e.g., the portion corresponding to the primary suction inlet 33 of the suction tube 36. At least one grooming unit 50 may be disposed proximate the primary suction inlet 33 of the suction tube 36. As used herein, phrases such as "proximate the primary suction inlet 33 of the suction tube 36" are intended to mean that the grooming unit 50 is disposed within and / or upstream of the primary suction inlet 33 at a distance less than 20% of the cross-sectional area of the primary suction inlet 33 of the suction tube 36.

[0142] In the illustrated example, the vacuum cleaner 10 is shown as having a primary suction inlet 33 (best shown in Figure 6 ), and two adjacent secondary suction inlets 71 that extend laterally (e.g., left and right) from the primary suction inlet 33 along the length of the agitation chamber 22. The primary suction inlet 33 and the secondary suction inlets 71 of the suction tube 36 are defined as a transition region between the agitation chamber 22 and the suction tube 36, which defines the start of the suction path from the agitation chamber 22. Although the vacuum cleaner 10 is shown as having only a single primary suction inlet 33 and two adjacent secondary suction inlets 71, it should be understood that the vacuum cleaner 10 may have less than or greater than two secondary suction inlets 71 and / or more than one primary suction inlet 33. In embodiments having more than one primary suction inlet 33, the vacuum cleaner 10 may optionally include more than one grooming unit 50. Additionally, the vacuum cleaner 10 may not have any secondary suction inlets 71.

[0143] The primary suction inlet 33 of the suction pipe 36 is defined as having a greater height than the adjacent secondary suction inlet 71. Thus, compared with the secondary suction inlet 71, the primary suction inlet 33 can have a greater pressure (but a lower velocity). For example, the height of the secondary suction inlet 71 can be less than 25% of the height of the primary suction inlet 33, for example, the height of the secondary suction inlet 71 can be less than 20% of the height of the primary suction inlet 33; the height of the secondary suction inlet 71 can be less than 15% of the height of the primary suction inlet 33; and / or the height of the secondary suction inlet 71 can be less than 10% of the height of the primary suction inlet 33, including all values and ranges therein. The combined length of the primary suction inlets 33 is less than the length of the agitation chamber 22. For example, the combined length of the primary suction inlets 33 is less than 80% of the length of the agitation chamber 22, for example, the combined length of the primary suction inlets 33 can be less than 60% of the length of the agitation chamber 22; the combined length of the primary suction inlets 33 can be less than 50% of the length of the agitation chamber 22; the combined length of the primary suction inlets 33 can be less than 40% of the length of the agitation chamber 22; and / or the combined length of the primary suction inlets 33 can be less than 30% of the length of the agitation chamber 22, including all values and ranges therein.

[0144] According to one aspect, when the vacuum cleaner 10 is disposed on the surface to be cleaned, the upper surface of the secondary suction inlet 71 can be disposed 3 - 5 mm from the surface to be cleaned. The secondary suction inlet 71 can be configured to extend substantially across the entire length of the agitation chamber 22 from the primary suction inlet 33. This configuration can enhance the suction of the vacuum cleaner 10 by reducing and / or eliminating dead zones within the agitation chamber 22 where the airflow is too low to entrain debris. Additionally (or alternatively), the upper surface of the primary suction inlet 33 can be 12 - 18 mm (e.g., 15 mm) from the upper surface of the secondary suction inlet 71 (e.g., 15 - 21 mm from the floor).

[0145] As discussed herein, the fingers 52 of the grooming unit 50 can be configured to contact the agitator 18, e.g., the bristles 60 and / or the sidewall 62. According to one aspect, the fingers 52 of the grooming unit 50 can all have substantially the same height as that generally shown in Figures 4 - 6 . According to one aspect, the fingers 52 can have a height of 8 - 10 mm, and the grooming unit 50 can have a total length of 30 - 40 mm (e.g., but not limited to 35 mm). The plurality of fingers 52 of the grooming unit 50 can extend across the entire length of the upper portion of the primary suction inlet 33. Alternatively, one or more of the fingers 52 can have different lengths. For example, one or more of the fingers 52' in the lateral region 73 can have a longer length, generally as shown in Figure 7As shown. In other words, one or more fingers 52' corresponding to the lateral region 73 may have a length measurement greater than that of the teeth 52 corresponding to the central region 77. As a further example, one or more fingers 52' within the lateral region 73 may have a length measurement less than that of one or more fingers 52 within the central region 77. Figure 7A An example of a carding unit 93 having a plurality of fingers 94 is shown in Figure 7A , wherein a portion of the plurality of fingers 94 corresponding to the central region 95 of the carding unit 93 has a length 96 measured to be greater than the length 96 of a portion of the plurality of fingers 94 corresponding to the lateral region 97. As Figure 7A shown, the central region 95 extends between each of the lateral regions 97. The length 98 of the central region 95 may be measured to be in the range of 20% to 60% of the length 99 of the carding unit 93.

[0146] Turning now to Figure 8 , the present disclosure may also be characterized by a plurality of segmented agitator chambers 80. Specifically, the segmented agitator chambers 80 may extend between the agitator 18 and the inner wall 82 defining the agitation chamber 22. The pressure within the segmented agitator chambers 80 may be higher and / or lower compared to the pressure within the remainder of the agitation chamber 22 (e.g., the pressure in the agitation chamber 22 near the opening 23) and / or the pressure within the suction pipe 36. The segmented agitator chambers 80 may be defined by sidewalls 62 and / or bristles 60 extending from the agitator body 40 and contacting the inner wall 82 of the agitation chamber 22. Specifically, the bristles 60 and / or the sidewalls 62 may form a partial seal with the inner wall 82. The shape, size, and pattern of the bristles 60 and / or the sidewalls 62 may be used to adjust the pressure within the segmented agitator chambers 80 as the agitator 18 rotates about the pivot axis 20. Although the example shown is depicted as having four segmented agitator chambers 80, it should be understood that the vacuum cleaner 10 may have more or fewer than four segmented agitator chambers 80.

[0147] Turning now to Figure 9 , a schematic view of an agitator 200 that may be an example of the agitator 18 that may be Figure 1 is generally shown. As shown, the agitator 200 includes at least one elastically deformable flap 202 (which may be an example of the sidewall 62) that spirally extends around the elongated body 203 of the agitator 200 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 204 of the agitator 200. As discussed herein, the agitator 200 may not include any bristles; however, it should be understood that the agitator 200 may optionally include bristles in addition to (or without) the flap 202.

[0148] The flap 202 can be generally described as a continuous strip extending longitudinally and away from the elongate body 203 of the agitator 200 along at least a portion of the elongate body. In some cases, the flap 202 may extend longitudinally along the elongate body 203 for a majority (e.g., at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95% or at least 99%) of the length 205 of the elongate body 203. The flap 202 is configured to engage (e.g., contact) the surface to be cleaned when the agitator 200 rotates, such that debris is pushed in the direction of, for example Figure 1 the opening / air inlet 23 of the vacuum cleaner 10.

[0149] In some cases, the flap 202 may spiral around the body 203 of the agitator 200 according to a first direction. In other cases, the flap 202 may spiral around the body 203 of the agitator 200 according to first and second directions such that at least one V-shaped form is formed.

[0150] When the flap 202 extends around the elongate body 203 of the agitator 200, the spiral shape of the flap 202 may be configured to push fibrous debris along the agitator 200 towards one or more predetermined locations. For example, when fibrous debris such as hair tangles around the agitator 200, according to the spiral shape of the flap 202, the engagement (e.g., contact) of the flap 202 with the surface to be cleaned and / or Figure 1 the rib 116 may cause the fibrous debris to be pushed along the agitator 200.

[0151] Figure 10 A schematic example of a plurality of ribs 300 is shown, which may be an example of ribs that engage (e.g., contact) the ribs 116 of the agitator 200. As shown, each of the ribs 300 extends transversely to the longitudinal axis 204 of the agitator 200 at a non-vertical angle and is configured to engage (e.g., contact) at least a portion of the flap 202. For example, the rib angle α formed between the longitudinal axis 204 and a respective one or more of the ribs 300 may be measured to be in the range of about 30° to about 60°. As the number of ribs 300 increases and the rib angle α decreases, the rate of pushing fibrous debris along the agitator 200 may increase.

[0152] In some cases, the ribs 300 may be configured to extend at least partially around the agitator 200. Accordingly, the ribs 300 may have an arcuate shape. This configuration can increase the amount of engagement (e.g., contact) between the flaps 202 and the ribs 300. The ribs 300 are configured to deform the flaps 202 in response to the flaps 202 engaging (e.g., contacting) the ribs 300. For example, the ribs 300 may be made of plastic (e.g., acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene), metal (e.g., aluminum or steel alloy), and / or any other suitable material, and the flaps 202 may be made of rubber (e.g., natural or synthetic rubber) and / or any other suitable material.

[0153] In some cases, each of the ribs 300 may extend parallel to one another. In other cases, one or more of the ribs 300 may not extend parallel to at least one other rib 300 (e.g., at least one rib 300 may extend transverse to at least one other rib 300). As shown, in some cases, each of the ribs 300 may be evenly spaced. In other cases, the ribs 300 may be unevenly spaced. For example, the separation distance 301 extending between the ribs 300 may decrease or increase in the migration direction 304 extending along the longitudinal axis 204 of the agitator 200. The migration direction 304 can generally be described as the direction in which the fiber debris is pushed.

[0154] As shown, each of the ribs 300 may be oriented such that at least a portion of at least one rib 300 overlaps at least a portion of at least one other rib 300 (e.g., the longitudinal position along a first rib corresponds to the longitudinal position along an adjacent rib). Accordingly, the overlap region 303 may extend between two adjacent ribs 300. The overlap region 303 can cause the fiber debris to be pushed substantially continuously in the migration direction 304.

[0155] When the agitator 200 rotates according to the rotation direction 302, the flaps 202 engage (e.g., contact) a portion of at least one of the ribs 300 and move along the peripheral edge of the ribs 300. The mutual engagement between the ribs 300 and the flaps 202 pushes the fiber debris in the migration direction 304.

[0156] In some cases, there may be multiple migration directions 304. For example, the agitator 200 may be configured to push the fiber debris toward opposite ends of the agitator 200. The migration direction 304 may be at least partially based on the helical pitch of the flaps 202, the rotation direction 302, and / or the rib angle α.

[0157] Figure 11Shows a schematic example of a plurality of ribs 400, which may be an example of rib 116, engaging (e.g., contacting) a agitator 401, which may be an example of agitator 200 of Figure 9 As shown, the direction of rotation 402 and the migration direction 404 are opposite to those in Figure 10 . Thus, the migration directions 304 and 404 can generally be described as being at least partially based on the orientation of ribs 300 and 400.

[0158] Figure 12 Shows a schematic cross-sectional end view of a surface cleaning head 500, which may be an example of surface cleaning head 12 of Figure 1 . As shown, the surface cleaning head 500 includes an agitator chamber 502 configured to receive an agitator 504, which may be an example of agitator 200 of Figure 9 . The agitator 504 includes a plurality of baffles 506, and the surface cleaning head 500 includes at least one rib 508 configured to engage (e.g., contact) the plurality of baffles 506. As shown, at least one rib 508 extends from the inner surface 501 of the agitator chamber 502. For example, at least one rib 508 may be formed by or coupled to at least a portion of the surface cleaning head 500.

[0159] When the baffle 506 engages (e.g., contacts) at least one rib 508, the overlap distance 512 between the rib 508 and the baffle 506 can be measured from the engagement surface 516 of the at least one rib 508 to the most distal portion of the baffle 506 adjacent to the rib 508. For example, the overlap distance 512 can be measured such that its maximum value is in the range of about 1 millimeter (mm) to about 3 mm. As another example, the overlap distance 512 can be measured such that its maximum value is in the range of about 1 mm to about 2 mm.

[0160] In cases where there are multiple ribs 508, the measure of the height 514 of one or more ribs 508 can be different from at least one other rib 508. Thus, the overlap distance 512 can be configured to vary between the ribs 508. Additionally or alternatively, the measure of the length 510 of the engagement surface 516 can be different from at least one other rib 508. Alternatively, the measure of the height 514 of each rib 508 and / or the measure of the length 510 of the engagement surface 516 can be substantially the same.

[0161] In some cases, a friction increasing material can be coupled to at least a portion of the engagement surface 516. For example, rubber (e.g., natural or synthetic rubber) can extend along at least a portion of the engagement surface 516. This configuration can improve the rate of pushing the fibrous material along the agitator 504.

[0162] Figure 13 Shows a schematic cross-sectional perspective view of a surface cleaning head 500. As shown, the surface cleaning head 500 may include a plurality of ribs 508, each rib being configured to engage (e.g., contact) a flap 506. As shown, the ribs 508 are configured to extend at least partially around at least a portion of the agitator 504.

[0163] Figure 14 Shows a perspective view of a surface cleaning head 700, which may be an Figure 1 example of the surface cleaning head 12. The surface cleaning head 700 may include an agitator cover 702 having a plurality of ribs 704 (shown in dashed lines) extending therefrom. The agitator cover 702 may be coupled to the surface cleaning head 700 or integrally formed by the surface cleaning head such that the agitator cover 702 defines at least a portion of an agitator chamber in which an agitator (e.g., agitator 18) rotates. In some cases, the agitator cover 702 may be invisible to a user of the surface cleaning head 700 and may have a length measured to be less than the length of the agitator. For example, the surface cleaning head 700 may include a plurality of agitator covers 702, where each agitator cover 702 corresponds to a respective distal end of the agitator, and the combined length of the agitator covers 702 is measured to be less than the total length of the agitator. Figure 14A Shows an example of an agitator cover 710 having a length measured to be less than the total length of the agitator, Figure 14B Shows an example of an agitator chamber 712 of a robotic cleaner having a plurality of agitator covers 710 disposed therein at opposite distal ends of the agitator chamber 712. The agitator covers 710 include ribs 714 and may be coupled to the agitator chamber 712 or integrally formed by the agitator chamber such that the ribs 714 are positioned to engage at least a portion of the agitator. In other words, the agitator chamber 712 includes ribs at opposite distal ends of the agitator chamber 712. By positioning the agitator covers 710 at opposite distal ends of the agitator chamber 712, migration of fibrous debris (e.g., hair) to the ends of the agitator (e.g., into bearings and / or shafts) can be reduced and / or prevented while reducing wear on the agitator.

[0164] The ribs 704 are configured to engage (e.g., contact) an agitator (e.g., agitator 18) disposed within the surface cleaning head 700 such that fibrous debris (e.g., hair) entangled around the agitator can be pushed to one or more locations along the agitator at least partially by the ribs 704.

[0165] In some cases, the rib 704 may extend only along a portion of the agitator cover 702. For example, the rib 704 may extend along a central portion of the agitator cover 702 (e.g., a portion corresponding to 20% to 60% of the length of the agitator cover 702, which is substantially centered between the distal ends of the agitator cover 702). As another example, the rib 704 may extend along one or more distal portions of the agitator cover 702 (e.g., a portion corresponding to 15% to 40% of the length of the agitator cover 702, which is close to or extends from the distal end of the agitator cover 702).

[0166] Although the rib 704 is shown as being disposed along the agitator cover 702, the rib 704 may be disposed elsewhere within the surface cleaning head 700. Thus, the rib 704 may generally be described as being disposed within the surface cleaning head 700 such that the rib 704 is fixed relative to the agitator when the agitator rotates. For example, the rib 704 may be disposed along the sidewall of the surface cleaning head 700. In these cases, when the agitator cover 702 is transparent and visible to the user, the rib 704 may not obstruct the view of the agitator through the agitator cover 702.

[0167] Figure 15 and 16 respectively show Figure 14 the bottom perspective view and bottom view of the agitator cover 702 of. As shown, the plurality of ribs 704 all extend parallel to each other and (e.g., at a non - vertical angle) transverse to the longitudinal axis 800 of the agitator cover 702. The ribs 704 may generally be described as being oriented to push fiber debris toward a single distal end of the agitator.

[0168] Figure 17 and 18 show the perspective view and bottom view of the agitator cover 1000 that can be used with Figure 14 the surface cleaning head 700 of. As shown, the agitator cover 1000 includes a plurality of ribs 1002. The ribs 1002 are configured to engage (e.g., contact) the agitator (e.g., the agitator 18) such that fiber debris is pushed toward at least one predetermined position (e.g., toward the center of the agitator) between the distal ends of the agitator. As shown, at least one of the ribs 1002 extends transverse to at least one other of the ribs 1002. Thus, the transverse ribs 1002 may generally be described as jointly defining a V - shaped configuration. In some cases, the agitator may include one or more flaps that extend helically around the elongated body of the agitator in a first and a second direction such that the one or more flaps define a V - shaped configuration.

[0169] Figure 19 shows a side view of the rib 1200, which may beFigure 1 An example of the rib 116. The rib 116 may have an arcuate shape that extends at least partially around the agitator (e.g., agitator 18) in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the agitator (e.g., at a non-vertical angle). Thus, the rib 1200 may generally be described as helically extending around the elongate body of the agitator. In some cases, the rib 1200 may be coupled to the surface cleaning head (e.g., surface cleaning head 12) such that the rib 1200 is fixed relative to the agitator and pushes fiber debris towards a predetermined location.

[0170] Figure 20 A schematic example of an agitator 1300 is shown, which may be Figure 1 an example of the agitator 18. As shown, the agitator 1300 includes a plurality of baffles 1302 and a plurality of brush strips 1304 extending generally parallel to the corresponding baffles 1302. The brush strips 1304 may include a plurality of individual bristles extending from the elongate body 1305 of the agitator 1300.

[0171] The bristle height 1306 may be measured to be less than the baffle height 1308. For example, the bristle height 1306 may be such that when the agitator 1300 rotates within the surface cleaning head of the surface cleaning head 12, for example, Figure 1 the brush strips 1304 do not engage (e.g., contact) one or more ribs configured to push fiber debris along the agitator 1300. As another example, in some cases, the brush strip height 1306 may be measured such that the portion of the bristles that engage (e.g., contact) one or more ribs is measured to be less than the portion of the baffles 1302 that engage (e.g., contact) one or more ribs. Alternatively, the bristle height 1306 may be measured to be greater than the baffle height 1308. Thus, the brush strips 1304 may engage (e.g., contact) one or more ribs configured to push fiber debris along the agitator 1300. In some cases, the bristle height 1306 may be measured to be substantially equal to the baffle height 1308. Thus, both the brush strips 1304 and the baffles 1302 may engage (e.g., contact) one or more ribs configured to push fiber debris along the agitator 1300. In some cases, the agitator 1300 may not include the brush strips 1304 (e.g., as Figure 9 shown). In some examples, the bristle height 1306 and / or the baffle height 1308 may be measured from the axis of rotation of the agitator 1300.

[0172] Figure 21 A schematic example of an agitator 1500 is shown, which may be Figure 1An example of the agitator 18. As shown, the agitator 1500 includes a plurality of bristle strips 1502 that extend helically around the elongated body 1504 of the agitator 1500. The bristle strips 1502 may include a plurality of individual bristles that extend from the elongated body 1504 of the agitator 1500.

[0173] Figure 22 A schematic cross-sectional view of the agitator 1600 is shown, and the agitator may be Figure 1 An example of the agitator 18. As shown, the agitator 1600 includes an elongated body 1602 having one or more flaps 1604 extending therefrom. The flaps 1604 are configured to engage a surface to be cleaned (e.g., the floor). The elongated body 1602 is configured to rotate about a rotational axis 1606 that extends longitudinally through the elongated body 1602. One or more shafts 1608 may be disposed along the rotational axis 1606 and coupled to the elongated body 1602. For example, a plurality of shafts 1608 may be coupled to the elongated body 1602 at opposite ends of the body 1602.

[0174] A first end cap 1610 and a second end cap 1612 may be disposed at opposite distal ends of the elongated body 1602. The end caps 1610 and 1612 may be generally described as agitator caps, where at least a portion of the agitator cap extends completely around the rotational axis of the agitator. The first end cap 1610 and the second end cap 1612 are configured to be fixed relative to the elongated body 1602 such that the elongated body 1602 rotates relative to the first end cap 1610 and the second end cap 1612. For example, the first end cap 1610 and the second end cap 1612 may be coupled to a portion of a surface cleaning head (e.g., Figure 1 the surface cleaning head 12).

[0175] The first end cap 1610 and the second end cap 1612 may define corresponding end cap cavities 1614 and 1616 having cavity side walls 1615 and 1617. At least a portion of the elongated body 1602 and at least a portion of one or more of the flaps 1604 are received within the corresponding end cap cavities 1614 and 1616. When the elongated body 1602 and one or more of the flaps 1604 are received within the corresponding end cap cavities 1614 and 1616, the cavity side walls 1615 and 1617 extend longitudinally along the elongated body 1602 and one or more of the flaps 1604 by an extension distance 1619 and 1621. The extension distances 1619 and 1621 may be measured, for example, within a range of 1% to 25% of the total length 1623 of the elongated body 1602. As another example, the extension distances 1619 and 1621 may be measured within a range of 5% to 15% of the total length 1623 of the elongated body 1602. As yet another example, the extension distances 1619 and 1621 may be measured as 10% of the total length 1623 of the elongated body 1602. As yet another example, the extension distances 1619 and 1621 may be measured within a range of 1.3 centimeters (cm) to 5 cm. In some cases, the extension distances 1619 and 1621 may be measured differently for each of the first end cap 1610 and the second end cap 1612.

[0176] Each of the end caps 1610 and 1612 may include one or more ribs 1618 and 1620 extending within the end cap cavities 1614 and 1616. The one or more ribs 1618 and 1620 extend in a radial direction toward the elongated body 1602 such that the one or more ribs 1618 and 1620 engage (e.g., contact) one or more of the flaps 1604. As shown, at least a portion of one or more of the flaps 1604 overlaps one or more of the ribs 1618 and 1620. For example, the measure of the overlap between the ribs 1618 and 1620 and one or more of the flaps 1604 may be measured within a range of 1% to 99% of the rib thickness 1625. By further example, the measure of the overlap between the ribs 1618 and 1620 and one or more of the flaps 1604 may be measured within a range of 10% to 75% of the rib thickness 1625. As yet another example, the measure of the overlap between the ribs 1618 and 1620 and one or more of the flaps 1604 may be measured as greater than 0% and less than 99% of the rib thickness 1625. Reducing the amount of overlap between the ribs 1618 and 1620 and one or more of the flaps 1604 may reduce the amount of wear experienced by one or more of the flaps 1604 and increase the lifespan of one or more of the flaps 1604.

[0177] One or more ribs 1618 and 1620 can be configured to push fiber debris (e.g., hair) in a direction away from the distal end of the elongate body 1602 (e.g., in the direction of the central portion of the elongate body 1602). The interaction between the ribs 1618, 1620 and the flap 1604 can mitigate and / or prevent the fiber debris from tangling around one or more axes 1608 and / or being trapped within one or more bearings supporting the one or more axes 1608.

[0178] One or more flaps 1604 can be configured to cooperate with one or more ribs 1618 and 1620 to push fiber debris in a direction away from the distal end of the elongate body 1602. For example, one or more flaps 1604 can extend helically around at least a portion of the elongate body 1602. In some cases, one or more flaps 1604 can extend helically around at least a portion of the elongate body 1602 according to two or more directions such that one or more V - shaped shapes are formed. In some cases, one or more flaps 1604 can be configured to push fiber debris in a direction away from the distal end of the elongate body 1602 after the fiber debris is separated from the end caps 1610 and 1612. In these cases, one or more flaps 1604 can push the fiber debris along the elongate body 1602 to a common location such that the fiber debris can be removed therefrom (e.g., using a grooming unit / cleaning rib that engages one or more flaps 1604 and removes the fiber debris therefrom due to the rotation of the elongate body 1602).

[0179] As Figure 23 shown, one or more ribs 1700 can extend between the end caps 1610 and 1612. The ribs 1700 can be coupled to and / or integrally formed with, for example, a portion of a surface cleaning head (e.g., Figure 1 the surface cleaning head 12) and / or one or more of the end caps 1610 and 1612. The ribs 1700 can cooperate with the ribs 1618 and 1620 of the end caps 1610 and 1612 to push fiber debris (e.g., hair) along the elongate body 1602 toward one or more common locations. When the elongate body 1602 includes one or more bristles (e.g., in addition to or as an alternative to one or more flaps 1604), the ribs 1700 can improve the migration of fiber debris along the elongate body 1602 toward one or more locations.

[0180] Figure 24 A perspective view of an end cap 1800 is shown that can be an example of the end cap 1610 of Figure 22 As shown, the end cap 1800 defines a receptacle for receiving a agitator (e.g., Figure 1cavity 1802 of at least a portion of the agitator 18). The cavity 1802 is defined by a cavity sidewall 1804 extending from a cavity base 1806. The cavity sidewall 1804 may extend from the cavity base 1806 by an extension distance 1805. The extension distance 1805 extends from the cavity base 1806 to a distal surface 1810 of the cavity sidewall 1804, and the distal surface 1810 is spaced apart from the cavity base 1806. The measure of the extension distance 1805 may vary along the perimeter of the cavity base 1806. For example, the end cap 1800 may be configured such that when the end cap 1800 is coupled to a surface cleaning head (e.g., Figure 1 surface cleaning head 12), the measure of the extension distance 1805 increases as the distance from the surface to be cleaned increases. As shown, the measure of the extension distance 1805 corresponding to the floor-facing portion 1807 of the end cap 1800 is less than the measure of the extension distance 1805 corresponding to the surface-cleaning-head-facing portion 1809 of the end cap 1800. Compared to the surface-cleaning-head-facing portion 1809, such a configuration may increase the effective cleaning width of the agitator while still alleviating and / or preventing hair from migrating into the shaft and / or bearings by exposing a greater portion of the agitator on the floor-facing portion 1807.

[0181] The cavity sidewall 1804 may include one or more ribs 1808 that extend from the cavity sidewall 1804 and into the cavity 1802. As shown, the ribs 1808 may extend from the cavity base 1806 along the cavity sidewall 1804 in the direction of the distal surface 1810 of the cavity sidewall 1804. The ribs 1808 may form a rib angle β with the cavity base 1806. The rib angle β may be measured as greater than or less than 90°. Thus, in some cases, one or more ribs 1808 may extend helically along the cavity sidewall 1804.

[0182] As shown, the ribs 1808 extend from the cavity base 1806 to the distal surface 1810 of the cavity sidewall 1804. In some cases, multiple ribs 1808 extend from the cavity sidewall 1804. When multiple ribs 1808 extend from the cavity sidewall 1804, the measure of the rib length 1812 corresponding to each rib 1808 may be different. For example, the measure of the rib length 1812 may be at least partially based on the measure of the extension distance 1805 of the cavity sidewall 1804 at a location along the perimeter of the cavity base 1806 where the corresponding rib 1808 terminates. As shown, the measure of the rib length 1812 corresponding to the rib 1808 near the floor-facing portion 1807 of the end cap 1800 is less than the measure of the rib length 1812 corresponding to the rib 1808 near the surface-cleaning-head-facing portion 1809 of the end cap 1800.

[0183] Figure 25Shows another perspective view of the end cap 1800. As shown, the end cap 1800 may include a shaft opening 1902, and at least a portion of a shaft (e.g., Figure 22 the shaft 1608) may extend through the shaft opening. A protrusion 1903 may extend from the cavity base 1806 and extend around the shaft opening 1902. Also as shown, one or more rib openings 1904 may extend along the cavity base 1806. The rib openings 1904 may have a rib opening length 1906, which generally corresponds to a measure of the distance that the corresponding rib 1808 extends along the cavity base 1806. Thus, the measure of the rib opening length 1906 may be less than the measure of the rib length 1812 of the corresponding rib 1808.

[0184] The cavity sidewall 1804 may also define an engagement area 1908 that extends on an outer surface 1910 of the cavity sidewall 1804. The outer surface 1910 faces away from the cavity 1802. The engagement area 1908 is configured to engage at least a portion of, for example, a surface cleaning head (e.g., Figure 1 the surface cleaning head 12), such that the end cap 1800 is retained within the surface cleaning head. For example, the engagement area 1908 may include a raised portion 1911 and a recessed portion 1912 that together define a part of a snap-fit joint.

[0185] Figure 26 and 27 Shows a perspective view of an end cap 2000 that may be an example of the end cap 1612 of Figure 22 . As shown, the end cap 2000 includes a cavity 2002 defined by a cavity base 2004 and a cavity sidewall 2006 extending from the cavity base 2004. One or more ribs 2008 may extend from the cavity sidewall 2006 and into the cavity 2002. As shown, one or more ribs 2008 have a helical shape. In other words, the cavity base 2004, the cavity sidewall 2006, and the ribs 2008 may be similar to the cavity base 1806, the cavity sidewall 1804, and the ribs 1808 described with respect to Figure 24 and 25 .

[0186] As shown, the end cap 2000 may include an engagement area 2010. The engagement area 2010 may be configured to engage at least a portion of, for example, a surface cleaning head (e.g., Figure 1 the surface cleaning head 12), such that the end cap 2000 is retained within the surface cleaning head. For example, the engagement area 2010 may define a part of a snap-fit joint. Also as shown, the cavity base 1806 may be substantially planar and include one or more rib openings 2012 and a shaft opening 2014 for receiving at least a portion of a shaft (e.g., Figure 22 the shaft 1608).

[0187] Although end caps 1800 and 2000 have been shown as separate components from the housing / body of vacuum cleaner 10, it should be understood that any one or more of the end caps described herein may be integrally formed as part of the housing / body of vacuum cleaner 10. Any one or more of the end caps described herein may be formed as a separate component from agitator 18 such that removal of agitator 18 does not result in removal of the end cap. Alternatively, one or more of the end caps may form part of the agitator assembly, where removal of agitator 18 results in removal of at least one of the end caps.

[0188] In some instances, one or more openings may extend through at least a portion of cavity sidewalls 1804 and 2006. For example, Figure 27A An example of end cap 2750 is shown having one or more openings 2752 that extend through cavity sidewall 2754. As shown, one or more openings 2752 extend between adjacent ribs 2756. For example, and as shown, the combined area of each of one or more openings 2752 may be measured as greater than the surface area of cavity sidewall 2754. When end cap 2750 is coupled to the surface cleaning head, a portion of the surface cleaning head extends over one or more openings 2752. Figure 27B An example of end cap 2750 within surface cleaning head 2758 is shown. As shown, end cap 2750 is coupled to the inner surface of surface cleaning head 2758. For example, end cap 2750 may be coupled to surface cleaning head 2758 such that end cap 2750 extends around at least a portion of the top portion of agitator 2760. In some instances, at least a portion of surface cleaning head 2758 may be visible light transparent such that at least a portion of agitator 2760 and / or end cap 2750 is visible.

[0189] Now turning to Figure 28 and 29 , another example of agitator 2800 is generally shown, which may be an example of agitator 18 of Figure 1 . Specifically, Figure 28 is a front view of agitator 2800, Figure 29 is taken along line 29-29 of Figure 29Cross-sectional view of agitator 2800. The agitator 2800 may include at least one elastically deformable flap 2802 (which may be an example of the side wall 62), and the at least one elastically deformable flap spirally extends around at least a portion of the elongated body 2804 of the agitator 2800 in a direction along the longitudinal axis 2806 of the agitator 2800. For example, the agitator 2800 may include a plurality of deformable flaps 2802, wherein the length of each deformable flap 2802 is measured to be less than the length of the body 2804. As shown, the agitator 2800 includes a plurality of deformable flaps 2802 that extend from the end regions 3000, 3002 of the body 2804 to the central region 3004 of the body 2804. As discussed herein, the agitator 2800 may not include any bristles; however, it should be understood that the agitator 2800 may optionally include bristles in addition to (or without) the flaps 2802.

[0190] Figure 30 An example of the elongated body 2804 of the agitator 2800 without the flaps 2802 and / or bristles is shown. Figure 29 An example of the elongated body 2804 of the agitator 2800. The elongated body 2804 of the agitator 2800 may have a generally circular cross-section (taken along a cross-section generally transverse to the longitudinal axis 2806). As used herein, the phrase "generally circular cross-section" is intended to mean that the radius R at any point within the circular cross-section of the elongated body 2804 is within 25% of the maximum radius of the elongated body 2804 within the circular cross-section. In the example shown, the circular cross-section of the elongated body 2804 is larger in the proximal regions 3000, 3002 than in the central region 3004. Thus, the circular cross-section of the elongated body 2804 can be said to taper from the proximal regions 3000, 3002 to the central region 3004. The taper of the proximal regions 3000, 3002 may be constant (e.g., linear) and / or non-linear. In at least one example, the middle portion 3008 of the elongated body 2804 may have the smallest circular cross-section. The taper of the first proximal region 3000 may be the same as or different from the taper of the second end region 3002.

[0191] The taper of the elongate body 2804 can increase the stiffness of the elastically deformable flap 2802 in the proximal regions 3000, 3002 while increasing the flexibility of the elastically deformable flap 2802 in the central region 3004. The reduced cross-section of the central region 3004 can also increase debris (e.g., hair) removal by allowing the grooming unit 50 (e.g., teeth 52) to extend further into the elastically deformable flap 2802 and / or the bristles (e.g., further towards the center of the agitator 2800), thereby increasing the contact between the grooming unit 50 and the elastically deformable flap 2802 and / or the bristles. Thus, the teeth 52 can have a greater length in the central region 3004 compared to the teeth 52 located outside the central region 3004.

[0192] Reference Figure 31A -B, shows Figure 30 another example of the elongate body 2804 of the agitator 2800. Similar to Figure 30 , the elongate body 2804 can have a generally circular cross-section, where the circular cross-section of the proximal regions 3000, 3002 is larger than the central region 3004. In at least one embodiment, the first end region 3000 can have a length extending along the longitudinal axis 2806 that is 10% to 40% of the total length 3100 of the elongate body 2804. For example, the length of the first end region 3000 can be 25% to 30% of the total length 3100 of the elongate body 2804 and / or 20% of the total length 3100 of the elongate body 2804.

[0193] The length of the second end region 3002 along the longitudinal axis 2806 can be the same as that of the first end region 3000. Alternatively, the length of the second end region 3002 can be shorter than that of the first end region 3000. In at least one example, the second end region 3002 can have a length extending along the longitudinal axis 2806 that is 8% to 30% of the total length 3100 of the elongate body 2804. For example, the length of the second end region 3002 can be 10% to 20% of the total length 3100 of the elongate body 2804, e.g., 17% of the total length 3100 of the elongate body 2804. As a non-limiting example, the total length 3100 of the elongate body 2804 can be 222.2 mm, the first end region 3000 can have a length of 45.7 mm, and the second end region 3002 can have a length of 36.9 mm.

[0194] As discussed herein, the proximal regions 3000, 3002 may have a tapered radius R. The taper can be linear or non-linear (e.g., curved). In at least one embodiment, the radius R of the inner end regions 3102 of the proximal regions 3000, 3002 (e.g., the regions 3102 of the proximal regions 3000, 3002 adjacent to the central region 3004) can be 3-15% smaller than the radius R of the distal end regions 3104 of the proximal regions 3000, 3002 (e.g., the regions 3104 of the proximal regions 3000, 3002 adjacent to the end caps). For example, the radius R of the inner end region 3102 can be 5-10% smaller than the radius R of the distal end region 3104 and / or 8.6% smaller than the radius R of the distal end region 3104. The difference in the radii of the end regions of the first proximal region 3000 can be the same as or different from the difference in the radii of the end regions of the second proximal region 3002.

[0195] As a non-limiting example, the radius R of the inner end region 3102 can be 21.25 mm, and the radius R of the distal end region 3104 can be 23.25 mm. The taper of the end regions 3000, 3002 can facilitate hair migration through the tapered stiffness of the ribs / flaps and / or bristles. To this end, increasing the length of the free / unsupported portions of the ribs / flaps and / or bristles will result in a reduced effective stiffness of the ribs / flaps and / or bristles, thereby enhancing hair migration.

[0196] Now turning to Figures 32 - 33 , generally shown without the elongated body 2804 Figure 29An example of the flap 2802. As described herein, the flap 2802 may generally extend helically around at least a portion of the elongate body 2804 and may be formed of an elastically deformable material. One or more of the end regions 3200, 3202 of the flap 2802 may include a bevel or taper (e.g., the flap may include a taper only in one or each of the end regions 3200, 3202). Thus, the height 3204 of the flap 2802 in at least a portion of the end regions 3200, 3202 may be less than the height 3204 of the flap 2802 in the central region 3206. In other words, the taper may bring the cleaning edge 3201 of the flap 2802 closer to the elongate body 2804. According to one example, the height 3204 of the flap 2802 may be measured from the base 3208 of the flap 2802 to the cleaning edge 3201 of the flap 2802, where the base 3208 is configured to be fixed to the agitator 2800 (e.g., the elongate body 2804). Alternatively, the height 3204 of the flap 2802 may be measured from the axis of rotation of the agitator 2800 to the cleaning edge 3201 of the flap 2802. The taper of the end regions 3200, 3202 may be constant (e.g., linear) and / or non-linear. In at least one example, the middle portion 3210 of the flap 2802 may have the maximum height 3204. The taper of the first end region 3200 may be the same as or different from the taper of the second end region 3202.

[0197] Additionally referring Figure 28 , the first end region 3200 may be disposed within one of the proximal regions 3000, 3002 of the elongate body 2804, and the second end region 3202 may be disposed within the central region 3004 of the elongate body 2804. The taper of the first end region 3200 may be configured to be at least partially received within an end cap, e.g., the migration hair end cap of the end cap described, for example Figures 22 - 27 in. The taper of the first end region 3200 may reduce wear and / or friction between the flap 2802 and the end cap, thereby enhancing the service life of the flap 2802 and the end cap. In at least some examples, when the flap 2802 rotates within the end cap, the taper of the first end region 3200 may reduce the folding of the flap 2802 (within the end cap and within the portion of the flap 2802 disposed adjacent to and outside the end cap). Reducing the folding of the flap 2802 may increase the contact between the flap 2802 and the surface to be cleaned, thereby enhancing the cleaning performance.

[0198] Referring Figure 33, the cone of the first end region 3200 may have a length 3304 and a height 3306. The length 3304 can be selected based on the size of the end cap that receives it. For example, the length 3304 can be the same as the insertion distance of the flap 2802 into the end cap, shorter than the insertion distance of the flap 2802 into the end cap, or longer than the insertion distance of the flap 2802 into the end cap. The cone of the first end region 3200 helps relieve the bending of the flap when the flap 2802 is inserted into the end cap. For example, the cone of the first end region 3200 may have a length 3304 between 5-9 mm and a height 3306 between 1-3 mm, and / or a length 3304 of 7 mm and a height 3306 of 2 mm.

[0199] The cone of the second end region 3202 can be configured to enhance hair migration along the agitator 2800. Specifically, the cone can enhance hair migration because hair will tend to migrate to the minimum diameter. Thus, the cone of the second end region 3202 can allow hair to migrate more effectively towards a specific location. Additionally, the cone of the second end region 3202 can serve as a hair storage area. To this end, the central region 3004 of the agitator 2800 can have a smaller overall diameter compared to the total diameter of the proximal regions 3000, 3002. Thus, hair can accumulate and wrap around the central region 3004 of the agitator 2800. As Figures 29 - 30 generally illustrated, the cone of the second end region 3202 of the first flap 2802 can partially overlap with the cone of the second end region 3202 of an adjacent flap 2802 within the central region 3004. When the flap 2802 is optionally used in combination with the cleaning unit 50 and / or the ribs 116, the teeth of the cleaning unit 50 and / or the ribs 116 can optionally be longer in the region near the second end region 3202 of the flap 2802.

[0200] Returning to Figure 33 , the size of the cone of the flap 2802 can affect the performance and / or service life of the flap 2802. Increasing the cone (e.g., length 3300 and / or height 3302) can improve hair migration; however, a cone that is too large can adversely affect the cleaning performance. For example, a cone that is too large in the second end region 3202 can result in a gap in which the flap 2802 does not sufficiently contact the surface to be cleaned. On the other hand, a cone that is too small in the second end region 3202 (e.g., length 3300 and / or height 3302) may not result in sufficient hair migration.

[0201] Experiments have shown that eliminating the internal bevel (e.g., eliminating the taper of the second end region 3202) can eliminate the intermediate gap, which can result in improved cleaning performance and aesthetic appearance (bevel without tangles); however, eliminating the intermediate gap can cause hair to accumulate on the agitator 2800 due to insufficient hair migration. The taper in the second end region 3202 with a length 3300 that is too short can mitigate and / or eliminate the adverse effects caused by the intermediate gap and can promote the migration of hair; however, such a configuration may result in the bevel being too steep and may result in undesirable tangling. For example, experiments have shown that the taper in the second end region 3202 with a length 3300 of 5 mm and a height 3302 of 7 mm results in a taper that results in tangles that are aesthetically unpleasant to the user and may cause the flap 2802 to fold back, which may impair cleaning / hair removal.

[0202] A taper in the second end region 3202 with a length 3300 that is too long may improve the migration of hair and may not tangle the flaps 2802; however, this may result in a larger intermediate gap. For example, experiments have shown that a taper in the second end region 3202 with a length 3300 of 30 mm and a height 3302 of 7 mm results in a taper with a larger cleaning gap that may be detrimental to the overall cleaning performance.

[0203] The inventors of the present application unexpectedly discovered that the taper in the second end region 3202 having a length 3300 of 15-25 mm and a height 3302 of 5-12 mm allows hair migration while minimizing the size of the intermediate cleaning gap and any resulting tangles (e.g., the resulting tangles are generally not visible and do not substantially affect performance). As a non-limiting example, the taper in the second end region 3202 may have a length 3300 of 17-23 mm and a height 3302 of 6-10 mm, such as a length 3300 of 20 mm and a height 3302 of 7 mm. In other words, the taper in the second end region 3202 has a length 3300 and a height 3302 that can have a slope of 1 to 0.3, such as a slope of 0.28 to 0.42, a slope of 0.315 to 0.0385, and / or a slope of 0.35.

[0204] The one or more tapers in the first end region 3200 and / or the second end region 3202 may be formed by removing a portion 3400 of the outer cleaning edge 3201 (e.g., the edge that contacts the surface to be cleaned) of the flap 2802, e.g., as Figure 34 This is particularly useful when the flap 2802 is formed from a nonwoven material (such as, but not limited to, rubber, plastic, silicon, etc.).

[0205] In embodiments where the flap 2802 is at least partially formed of a woven material, it may be desirable to maintain a selvedge in one or more of the first end region 3200 and / or the second end region 3202. The selvedge extends along the clean edge 3201 of the flap 2802 and can improve the abrasion resistance of the flap 2802 when compared to portions of the clean edge 3201 of the flap 2802 that do not include the selvedge (e.g., if portions of the flap 2802 are removed to create a taper). In at least one example, the manufacturer's selvedge is maintained and one or more tapers can be formed in the first end region 3300 and / or the second end region 3202 to modify the mounting edge of the flap 2802. Figure 35 An example of the selvedge 3500 is generally shown. Specifically, the clean edge 3201 of the flap 2802 can be substantially linear prior to installation onto the agitator, and the mounting edge 3402 (which can also be the base 3208) of the flap 2802 in the region of the first end region 3200 and / or the second end region 3202 can have a reduced length 3502 when compared to the length 3504 of the flap 2802 in the central region 3206 (e.g., the middle portion 3210). In at least one example, the mounting edge 3402 can include a plurality of segments 3506 (e.g., a plurality of profile "T" segments created in a mold), which straighten when the flap 2802 is installed in the agitator body 2804, thereby creating a profiled (e.g., tapered) selvedge 3500 in the first end region 3200 and / or the second end region 3202. In other words, the flap 2802 can generally be described as including a plurality of segments 3506 along the mounting edge 3402, which cause a taper to form within the flap 2802 when installed onto the body 2804.

[0206] Now turning to Figure 36 , another example of an agitator 3600 is generally shown, which can be Figure 1An example of the agitator 18. The agitator 3600 may include an agitator body 3602, the agitator body including a plurality of channels 3604 configured to receive an installation edge 3606 of a baffle 3608, such as the baffle generally described herein. The plurality of channels 3604 and / or the installation edge 3606 of the baffle 3608 may be configured to align the baffle 3608 at an installation angle 3610. The installation angle 3610 may be defined as the angle between a line 3612 extending along the radius of the agitator body 3602 and a line 3614 extending along the length of the baffle 3608. The lines 3612, 3614 may intersect at the outer edge 3615 of the agitator body 3602. The installation angle 3610 may be angled towards the direction of rotation (e.g., when the agitator 3600 rotates, the line 3614 may contact the surface to be cleaned before the line 3612). The installation angle 3610 may be any angle within the range of 10 - 45 degrees, such as 15 - 30 degrees, 30 - 25 degrees, and / or 22.53 degrees. The aggressive installation angle 3610 may improve cleaning and help prevent hair from bending the baffle 3608 and wrapping around the agitator 3600. However, if the installation angle 3610 is too aggressive, excessive noise and / or wear may occur.

[0207] Now referring to Figure 37 , a cross-sectional view generally showing another example of an end cap 3700 is shown. The end cap 3700 may be similar to Figure 22 the end cap 1610. Thus, unless otherwise indicated, like reference numerals refer to like features and will not be repeated for the sake of brevity. Similar to the end cap 1610, the end cap 3700 may include a plurality of ribs 3702 - 3712. For example, the plurality of ribs 3702 - 3708 may extend from the inner surface 3714 of the end cap 3700, such as near the top region 3716 of the end cap 3700. The plurality of ribs 3702 - 3708 may have different heights 3718. The different heights of the ribs 3702 - 3708 may help reduce noise and / or wear on the baffle 2802.

[0208] The height 3718 of the plurality of ribs 3702 - 3708 can generally correspond inversely to the taper of the flap 2802 (e.g., the taper of the first end region 3200). In at least one example, the different heights 3718 of the plurality of ribs 3702 - 3708 can have different amounts of rib / flap engagement 3720. For example, compared to the rib (e.g., but not limited to rib 3708) at the end 3722 furthest from the agitator 2800, the rib (e.g., but not limited to rib 3702) closest to the distal end 3722 of the agitator 2800 can have a greater rib / flap engagement 3720. In at least one example, the end cap 3700 can include one or more ribs that engage and / or are adjacent to the flap 2802 but are not within the cone of the first end region 3200. For illustrative purposes, the rib / flap engagement 3720 of the closest rib (e.g., but not limited to rib 3702) and the distant rib (e.g., but not limited to rib 3708) can taper between 2.0 mm and 0 mm, e.g., 1.5 mm to 0 mm. The spacing between adjacent ribs 3702 - 3712 can be constant or variable. For example, the spacing between adjacent ribs 3702 - 3712 can be 2 - 4 mm, e.g., 2 - 3 mm, 2.5 - 2.75 mm, and / or 2.75 mm. The close proximity of the ribs / teeth 3702 - 3712 prevents hair from rotating continuously between two adjacent ribs / teeth. The ribs / teeth 3702 - 3712 can have a tooth width of 1 - 3 mm, e.g., 1 - 2 mm, 1.5 - 1.75 mm, and / or 1.75 mm.

[0209] In at least one example, compared to the top end region 3716, the bottom region 3724 of the end cap 3700 (e.g., the region of the end cap 3700 closest to the surface to be cleaned) can have a different configuration of ribs 3710 - 3712. For example, compared to the top region 3716, the bottom region 3724 of the end cap 3700 can have fewer ribs. The ribs 3710 - 3712 can also extend across a smaller region of the flap 2802. For example, the ribs 3710 - 3712 can be provided only within the cone of the first end region 3200.

[0210] Figure 37AA perspective view of an example of a blender 3750 is shown having a plurality of deformable flaps 3752 (which may be an example of the side wall 62) and a plurality of bristle strips and / or a plurality of tufts of bristles arranged in rows 3754. The bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 extend along and generally parallel to at least a portion of the corresponding deformable flap 3752 (e.g., the separation distance between the deformable flap 3752 and an adjacent bristle strip and / or row of tufts 3754 may deviate by less than 10%, e.g., less than 5% or less than 2%, along their coextensive portion). As shown, the length of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 is measured to be less than the length of the corresponding deformable flap 3752. In other words, the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 extend only along a portion of the corresponding deformable flap 3752. For example, the measure of the length of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 may be less than half of the measure of the length of the corresponding deformable flap 3752.

[0211] One or more of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 may be arranged in front of the corresponding deformable flap 3752 (e.g., from a rotational perspective, when the blender rotates, the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 contact the surface to be cleaned before the corresponding deformable flap 3752 adjacent to the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754). Alternatively (or additionally), one or more of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 may be arranged behind the corresponding deformable flap 3752 (e.g., from a rotational perspective, when the blender rotates, the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 contact the surface to be cleaned after the corresponding deformable flap 3752 adjacent to the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754).

[0212] As shown, the deformable flaps 3752 each include a cone 3753 at a central end region 3756. The cones 3753 of the central end regions 3756 of at least one deformable flap 3752 may be different from the cones 3753 of the central end regions 3756 of at least one other deformable flap 3752. For example, a first set of deformable flaps 3752 may have a first cone 3753a with a first slope, and a second set of deformable flaps 3752 may have a second cone 3753b with a second slope, the second slope being measured as different from the first slope. In some cases, the first set of deformable flaps and the second set of deformable flaps 3752 may be arranged in a generally alternating manner around the body 3758 of the agitator 3750. For example, a deformable flap 3752 having a first cone 3753a may be positioned such that the next adjacent deformable flap 3752 on one side has a second cone 3753b, while the next adjacent deformable flap 3752 on the other side includes a first cone 3753a. As another example, a deformable flap 3752 having a first cone 3753a may be positioned such that the next adjacent deformable flap 3752 on either side has a second cone 3753b.

[0213] In some cases, the body 3758 of the agitator 3750 may narrow and / or taper towards the central portion of the body 3758. The cone may extend from the distal end of the body 3758. In some cases, the cone may extend from an end region of the body 3758 such that the cone begins at a position spaced from the distal end of the body 3758.

[0214] Reference Figure 37B, when the agitator 3750 rotates, the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 can be arranged at a passive angle. As used herein, passive angle means that when the agitator 3750 rotates, the base of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 (i.e., the portion where the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 extend from the body 3758 of the agitator 3750) is arranged perpendicular to the surface to be cleaned before the tips of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 are arranged perpendicular to the surface to be cleaned. The corresponding deformable flap 3752 can be arranged at an aggressive angle when the agitator 3750 rotates. As used herein, aggressive angle means that when the agitator 3750 rotates, the tip of the deformable flap 3752 is arranged perpendicular to the surface to be cleaned before the base of the deformable flap 3752 is arranged perpendicular to the surface to be cleaned. As a non-limiting example, the aggressive angle can be defined as the angle between a line extending along the radius of the agitator body 3758 and a line extending along the length of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 or the deformable flap 3752 in the direction of rotation of the agitator, and can include any angle within the range of 10 - 45 degrees (e.g., 15 - 30 degrees, 30 - 25 degrees, 16 degrees, and / or 22.53 degrees). As a non-limiting example, the passive angle can be defined as the angle between a line extending along the radius of the agitator body 3758 and a line extending along the length of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 or the deformable flap 3752 in the direction away from the rotation of the agitator, and can include any angle within the range of 10 - 45 degrees (e.g., 15 - 30 degrees, 30 - 25 degrees, 16 degrees, and / or 22.53 degrees).

[0215] In Figure 37B , when the agitator 3750 rotates clockwise, the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 are shown on the left side and the deformable flap 3752 is shown on the right side. As previously mentioned, the arrangement of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 and the deformable flap 3752 can be reversed (i.e., the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 can be rotatably arranged before the deformable flap 3752). In this arrangement, the distal ends (e.g., tips) of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 and the deformable flap 3752 can generally converge towards each other (e.g., in an inverted V configuration, but the tips do not have to touch each other).

[0216] As mentioned herein, the agitator 3750 can include one or more bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 (collectively referred to as the bristle / flap arrangement 5000) extending along and generally parallel to at least a portion of one or more corresponding deformable flaps 3752, Figure 37C)。The length of the bristle strip and / or the bristle tuft row 3754 may be the same as, less than, or equal to the length of the corresponding deformable flap 3752. In one example, the first bristle / flap arrangement 5000a may extend from the first lateral end region 5051 of the agitator 3750 towards the central region 5052 of the agitator 3750 (e.g., extend to the central region 5052), and the second bristle / flap arrangement 5000b may extend from the second lateral end region 5053 of the agitator 3750 towards the central region 5052 of the agitator 3750 (e.g., extend to the central region 5052). In at least one example, the first and / or second bristle / flap arrangements 5000a, 5000b may extend from the first lateral end region 5051 to the second lateral end region 5053. The second bristle / flap arrangement 5000b may rotate / circumferentially offset relative to the first bristle / flap arrangement 5000a when the agitator 3750 rotates such that the first bristle / flap arrangement 5000a first contacts the surface to be cleaned before the second bristle / flap arrangement 5000b. This arrangement of the first and second bristle / flap arrangements 5000a, b may be repeated around the agitator 3750.

[0217] In at least one example, an agitator 3750 consistent with the present disclosure may include one or more first and second bristle / flap groups 5050a, b. The first bristle / flap group 5050a may include at least two bristle / flap arrangements 5000 and / or at least one bristle / flap arrangement 5000 and one or more bristle strips and / or bristle tuft rows 3754 or deformable flaps 3752. The first bristle / flap group 5050a may extend from the first lateral end region 5051 of the agitator 3750 towards the central region 5052 of the agitator 3750 (e.g., extend to the central region 5052). In at least one example, the plurality of bristle / flap arrangements 5000 (e.g., bristle strips and / or bristle tuft rows 3754 and / or deformable flaps 3752) within the first bristle / flap group 5050a may be spaced apart from each other by a circumferential distance of no more than 20% of the circumference of the body of the agitator 3750 (e.g., no more than 15% of the circumference of the body of the agitator 3750, no more than 10% of the circumference of the body of the agitator 3750, and / or no more than 5% of the circumference of the body of the agitator 3750).

[0218] The second bristle / flap group 5050b may include at least two bristle / flap arrangements 5000 and / or at least one bristle / flap arrangement 5000 and one or more bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 or deformable flaps 3752. The second bristle / flap group 5050b may extend from the second lateral end region 5053 of the agitator 3750 towards the central region 5052 of the agitator 3750 (e.g., extend into the central region 5052). In at least one example, the plurality of bristle / flap arrangements 5000 (e.g., bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 and / or deformable flaps 3752) within the second bristle / flap group 5050b may be spaced from each other by a circumferential distance of no more than 20% of the circumference of the body of the agitator 3750 (e.g., no more than 15% of the circumference of the body of the agitator 3750, no more than 10% of the circumference of the body of the agitator 3750, and / or no more than 5% of the circumference of the body of the agitator 3750).

[0219] Optionally, when the agitator 3750 rotates, the central end regions 3756 of the deformable flaps 3752 and / or bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 of one or more bristle / flap arrangements 5000 of the first bristle / flap group 5050a may partially overlap the same regions on the surface to be cleaned as the central end regions 3756 of the deformable flaps 3752 and / or bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 of one or more bristle / flap arrangements 5000 of the second bristle / flap group 5050b. In one example, the length of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 3754 in the central region of the agitator 3750 may be shorter than their corresponding deformable flaps 3752 and / or eliminated.

[0220] The first and second brush / flap sets 5050a, b can rotate / offset circumferentially relative to each other. In other words, when the agitator 3750 rotates, the first brush / flap set 5050a first contacts the surface to be cleaned before the second brush / flap set 5050b. This arrangement of the first and second brush / flap sets 5050a, b can be repeated around the agitator 3750. In other words, the first and second brush / flap sets 5050a, b can generally be described as circumferentially staggered around the agitator 3750 (e.g., a staggered configuration). In some cases, there may be some overlap between the first and second brush / flap sets 5050a, b. For example, when extending helically in a staggered configuration, portions of the first and second brush / flap sets 5050a, b can contact the surface to be cleaned simultaneously. In at least one example, no part of any of the brush / flap sets 5050a, b intersects or extends into the other brush / flap set (e.g., no part of the brush / flap arrangement 5000 of any of the brush / flap sets 5050a, b is disposed between the brush / flap arrangements 5000 of the other brush / flap set 5050a, b).

[0221] It should be understood that in any of the embodiments described herein, the deformable flaps, rows of brush strips, and / or rows of tufts can contact the teeth of the cleaner 5061. Alternatively (or additionally), any of the embodiments described herein can include deformable flaps, rows of brush strips, and / or rows of tufts that are spaced (i.e., gapped) from the teeth of the cleaner 5061 such that the deformable flaps, rows of brush strips, and / or rows of tufts do not contact the teeth of the cleaner 5061. In particular, the deformable flaps, rows of brush strips, and / or rows of tufts and the teeth of the cleaner 5061 can be spaced from each other such that one or more layers of hair (e.g., two or more layers, three or more layers, etc.) on the agitator 3750 can contact the cleaner 5061 when the agitator 3750 rotates. Additionally, the teeth of any of the cleaners 5061 described herein can include rigid teeth and / or flexible teeth (e.g., the bristles of the brush comb 5060 generally shown as Figure 37D in) that can deflect when contacting the deformable flaps, rows of brush strips, rows of tufts, and / or the hair on the agitator 3750.

[0222] The agitator 3750 can be used in any vacuum cleaner known to those skilled in the art. In Figure 37EAn example of a vacuum cleaner including a dual agitator in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The vacuum cleaner includes a surface cleaning head 100 having a housing 110 with a front side 112 and a rear side 113, left side 116a and right side 116b, an upper side 118, and a lower or bottom side 120. The housing 110 defines a suction conduit 128 having an opening 127 on the lower side 120 of the housing 110. The suction conduit 128 is fluidly coupled to a dirty air inlet that leads to a suction motor (not shown) in the surface cleaning head 100 or another location in the vacuum cleaner. The suction conduit 128 is an internal space defined by an inner wall in the housing 110 that receives and directs air drawn in by suction, and the opening 127 is where the suction conduit 128 meets the lower side 120 of the housing 110. Although embodiments of the housing 110 are described herein for illustrative purposes, the housing 110 and its components may have other shapes and configurations.

[0223] The surface cleaning head 100 includes dual rotary agitators 122, 124, such as a brush roller 122 and a leading roller 124. The brush roller 122 and the leading roller 124 may be configured to rotate about first and second rotational axes (RA1, RA2) that extend generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis LA of the surface cleaning head 100 (e.g., generally perpendicular to an expected direction of vacuuming movement of the surface cleaning head 100 and / or generally parallel to the front side 112). The rotating brush roller 122 and / or the leading roller 124 may be rotated about the rotational axes by one or more motors coupled to the rotating shafts.

[0224] The rotating brush roller 122 (which may include an agitator 3750 as shown in Figure 37A -D) may be at least partially disposed within the suction conduit 128 (schematically shown in dashed lines in Figure 37E ). The leading roller 124 is positioned in front of and spaced from the brush roller 122 and is at least substantially outside the suction conduit 128. The leading roller 124 may include any roller known to those skilled in the art, including but not limited to a soft roller (e.g., a roller having flocking or tufting) or an agitator 3750 as shown in Figure 37A -D. As shown in Figure 37EAs shown, at least the inner upper portion (e.g., at least the inner upper half) of the leading roller 124 may not be exposed to the flow path in the opening 127 of the suction catheter 128, while at least the inner part of the bottom portion of the leading roller 124 may be exposed to the flow path in the opening 127 of the suction catheter 128. The leading roller 124 may be received in the leading roller chamber 126, which may prevent the inner upper half of the leading roller 124 from being exposed to the flow path. Other variations are possible, where different portions of the leading roller 124 are exposed or not exposed to the flow path. The space between the lower portion of the leading roller 124 and the lower portion of the brush roller 122 forms an inter-roller air passage 146, which may provide at least a portion of the flow path into the opening 127 of the suction catheter 128 and allow debris to be carried into the suction catheter 128.

[0225] As shown, the brush roller 122 may be disposed in front of one or more wheels 130 that support the housing 110 on the surface 10 to be cleaned. For example, one or more larger wheels may be disposed along the rear side 114, and / or one or more smaller intermediate wheels (not shown) may be disposed at an intermediate section on the lower side of the housing 110 and / or along the left side 116a and the right side 116b. Other wheel configurations may also be used. The wheels 130 assist in moving the surface cleaning head 100 along the surface 10 to be cleaned and may also allow the user to easily tilt or pivot the surface cleaning head 100 (e.g., the brush roller 122 and / or the leading roller 124) away from the surface 10 to be cleaned. The rear wheels 130 and the intermediate wheels may provide the main contact with the surface being cleaned and thus mainly support the surface cleaning head 100. When the surface cleaning head 100 is positioned on the surface 10 being cleaned, the leading roller 124 may also rest on the surface 10 being cleaned. In other embodiments, the leading roller 124 may be positioned such that the leading roller 124 is located just above the surface being cleaned.

[0226] One or more combing units, cleaning protrusions, and / or ribs may contact the surface of the leading roller 124 and / or the brush roller 122 to facilitate debris removal and / or migrate hair to a desired location. The combing units, cleaning protrusions, and / or ribs may include any combing units, cleaning protrusions, and / or ribs known to those skilled in the art and / or described herein, including but not limited to, the combing units, cleaning protrusions, and / or ribs including the combing units 50, 93, the cleaner 5061, the cleaning protrusions 150, and the ribs 508, 704, 1002, 1200, 1700, 1808, 2008, 3702.

[0227] According to an embodiment, one or more sealing strips 170, 172 may be positioned along the rear side and the left and right sides of the opening 127 to the suction catheter 128. The sealing strips 170, 172 may contact the surface 10 being cleaned to seal the surface together with the leading roller 124 of the surface 10 in front of the contact roller. A side edge vacuum passage may be formed between the side sealing strip 172 and the leading roller 124 to direct air into the inter-roller air passage 146 and back toward the opening 127 of the suction catheter 128. Accordingly, the side edge vacuum passage and the inter-roller air passage 146 provide at least a portion of the airflow path to the suction catheter 128.

[0228] The housing 110 may be opened at the front side 112 such that the front portion of the leading roller 124 is exposed to facilitate edge cleaning. According to an embodiment, the housing 110 may include a front shock absorber 160 that extends from the front side 112 of the housing 110 just beyond (or at least up to) the front contact surface of the leading roller 124 such that the shock absorber 160 contacts the vertical surface 12 first to prevent damage to the leading roller 124. The shock absorber 160 may be resilient enough to bend or compress to allow the leading roller 124 to contact the vertical surface 12 for edge cleaning.

[0229] The rotary brush roller 122 may have bristles, fabric, or other cleaning elements or any combination thereof around the outside of the brush roller 122. For example, the rotary brush roller 122 may include agitators 3750. The agitators 3750 may also include two deformable flaps 3752 in front of each row of bristle strips 3754. Accordingly, when the agitator 3750 rotates, the two deformable flaps 3752 may be disposed in front of (e.g., directly in front of) each bristle strip 3754, and the two deformable flaps 3752 may be disposed behind (e.g., directly behind) each bristle strip 3754. Having two deformable flaps 3752 disposed in front of each bristle strip 3754 and two deformable flaps 3752 disposed behind each bristle strip 3754 may increase the number of agitation interactions, thereby improving carpet cleaning. Refer to Figure 37F , one or more deformable flaps 3752 may include holes 6262 that may reduce the stiffness of the deformable flaps 3752, thereby reducing noise. The holes 6262 may be located anywhere on the deformable flaps 3752, e.g., near the base of the deformable flaps 3752.

[0230] Additionally, the hardness of the deformable flap 3752 can be reduced, thereby reducing the flap impact force and the buckle reaction force and reducing noise. The flap tip OD / flap-to-ground engagement can be reduced, which can increase deep carpet agitation and reduce noise. Optionally, the brush strip 3754 can be replaced by a row of brush tufts. The brush tufts can increase deep carpet agitation, thereby improving carpet cleaning. The brush strip 3754 can be actively angled, which can increase deep and rough carpet agitation and enhance carpet cleaning and pet hair pickup. The actively angled brush strip 3754 can optionally be used in combination with the passively angled deformable flap 3752 and / or the actively angled deformable flap 3752. The brush filament length diameter / hardness can be increased to improve deep carpet agitation and carpet cleaning. Alternatively, the brush filament diameter / hardness can be reduced to reduce human hair entanglement and improve hair migration ability (e.g., hair migration to the center). Instead of a circular cross-section, the brush filament shape in any of the examples disclosed herein can include one or more of the following cross-sectional shapes generally shown in Figure 37G : a triangular cross-section 7102 (optionally having a diameter of 0.15 - 0.20 mm); a square cross-section 7104 (optionally having a diameter of 0.15 - 0.20 mm); a hexagonal cross-section 7106 (optionally having a diameter of 0.12 - 0.15 mm); elliptical cross-sections 7108, 7110 (optionally having a diameter of 0.13 - 0.15 mm); an unequal cross-section 7112 (optionally having a diameter of 0.13 - 0.16 mm); a six-lobed cross-section 7114 (optionally having a diameter of 0.16 mm); a caterpillar cross-section 7116 (optionally having a diameter of 0.24 - 0.30 mm); and a star cross-section 7118 (optionally having a diameter of 0.15 - 0.30 mm). Variations in the brush shape can increase cleaning or pet hair pickup. Soft material can be added between the deformable flaps 3752 to improve fine scrubbing / wiping of hard floors and increase the pickup of adhering dust. The rotational speed of the agitator 3750 can be reduced to reduce the total number of interactions, thereby reducing noise.

[0231] Other examples of brush rollers and agitators are shown and described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 9,456,723 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0220082, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0232] The leading roller 124 may include a relatively soft material (e.g., soft bristles, fabric, felt, napped or tufted), which is arranged in a pattern (e.g., a helical pattern) to facilitate debris capture, as will be described in more detail below. The leading roller 124 may be selected to be substantially softer than the brush roller 122. The softness, length, diameter, arrangement, and resilience of the bristles and / or tufts of the leading roller 124 may be selected to form a seal with hard surfaces (e.g., but not limited to hardwood floors, tile floors, laminate floors, etc.), while the bristles of the brush roller 122 may be selected to agitate carpet fibers, etc. For example, the leading roller 124 may be at least 25% softer than the brush roller 122, alternatively, the leading roller 124 may be at least 30% softer than the brush roller 122, alternatively, the leading roller 124 may be at least 35% softer than the brush roller 122, alternatively, the leading roller 124 may be at least 40% softer than the brush roller 122, alternatively, the leading roller 124 may be at least 50% softer than the brush roller 122, alternatively, the leading roller 124 may be at least 60% softer than the brush roller 122. The softness may be determined, for example, based on the flexibility of the bristles or tufts being used.

[0233] The size and shape of the bristles and / or tufts may be selected based on the intended application. For example, the leading roller 124 may include bristles and / or tufts having a length between 5 and 15 mm (e.g., 7 to 12 mm) and a diameter that may be 0.01 to 0.04 mm (e.g., 0.01 - 0.03 mm). According to one embodiment, the bristles and / or tufts may have a length of 9 mm and a diameter of 0.02 mm. The bristles and / or tufts may have any shape. For example, the bristles and / or tufts may be straight, arcuate, and / or may have a composite shape. According to one embodiment, the bristles and / or tufts may have a generally U and / or Y shape. The U-shaped and / or Y-shaped bristles and / or tufts may increase the number of points of contact with the floor surface 10, thereby enhancing the cleaning function of the leading roller 124. The bristles and / or tufts may be made of any material, such as but not limited to nylon 6 or nylon 6 / 6.

[0234] The outer diameter Dlr of the leading roller 124 can be smaller than the outer diameter Dbr of the brush roller 122. For example, the diameter Dlr can be greater than zero and less than or equal to 0.8Dbr, greater than zero and less than or equal to 0.7Dbr, or greater than zero and less than or equal to 0.6Dbr. According to an exemplary embodiment, the diameter Dlr can be in the range of 0.3Dbr to 0.8Dbr, 0.4Dbr to 0.8Dbr, 0.3Dbr to 0.7Dbr, or 0.4Dbr to 0.7Dbr. As an illustrative example, the brush roller 122 can have an outer diameter of 48 mm, and the leading roller 124 can have an outer diameter of 30 mm. Although the outer diameter Dlr of the leading roller 124 can be smaller than the outer diameter Dbr of the brush roller 122, the bristles of the brush roller 122 can be longer than the bristles and / or fluff of the leading roller 122.

[0235] Positioning the leading roller 124 (having a diameter Dlr smaller than the diameter Dbr of the brush roller 122) in front of the brush roller 122 provides numerous benefits. For example, this arrangement reduces the height Hf of the front side 112 (e.g., the housing 110) of the surface cleaning head 100 from the surface 10 to be cleaned (see, for example Figure 1 ). The reduced height Hf of the front portion of the surface cleaning head 100 provides a lower profile that allows the surface cleaning head 100 to fit under an object (e.g., furniture and / or cabinets). Additionally, the lower height Hf allows for the addition of one or more light sources 111 (e.g., but not limited to LEDs), while still allowing the surface cleaning head 100 to fit under an object.

[0236] Furthermore, the smaller diameter Dlr of the leading roller 124 allows the axis of rotation of the leading roller 124 to be placed closer to the front side 112 of the surface cleaning head 100. When rotating, the leading roller 124 forms a generally cylindrical protrusion having a radius based on the total diameter of the leading roller 124. As the diameter of the leading roller 124 decreases, the bottom of the leading roller 124 contacts the surface 140 ( Figure 1 ) moves forward towards the front side 112 of the surface cleaning head 100. Additionally, when the surface cleaning head 100 contacts a vertical surface 12 (e.g., but not limited to a wall, a skirting board, and / or a cabinet), the bottom contact surface 140 of the leading roller 124 is also closer to the vertical surface 12, thereby enhancing the front edge cleaning of the surface cleaning head 100 as compared to a leading roller with a larger diameter. Moreover, the smaller diameter Dlr of the leading roller 124 also reduces the load / drag on the motor driving the leading roller 124, thereby increasing the service life of the motor and / or allowing the use of a smaller motor to rotate the brush roller 122 and the leading roller 124.

[0237] Refer to Figure 38, generally shows another example of a vacuum cleaner 3800. The vacuum cleaner 3800 may include a head 3802 (which may optionally include one or more agitators as described herein), a rod 3804 (which may optionally include one or more joints 3806 configured to allow the rod 3804 to bend, for example, between an extended position and a bent position as shown), and a hand-held vacuum portion 3808. The hand-held vacuum portion 3808 may include a debris collection chamber 3810 and a vacuum source 3812 (e.g., a suction motor, etc.) for generating an air flow (e.g., a partial vacuum) in the head 3802, the rod 3804, and the debris collection chamber 3810 to suction debris near the head 3802. The rod 3804 may define a rod longitudinal axis 3814 that extends between a first end 3816 configured to be coupled to the head 3802 and a second end 3818 configured to be coupled to the hand-held vacuum portion 3808. One or more of the first end 3816 and the second end 3818 may be removably coupled to the head 3802 and the hand-held vacuum portion 3808, respectively.

[0238] Now turning to Figure 39 , more particularly shows Figure 38 the hand-held vacuum portion 3808 of. Specifically, the hand-held vacuum portion 3808 may include a rod connector 3900 having a first end region 3902 fluidly coupled to the second end 3818 of the rod 3804 and a second end region 3904 coupled to a handle body 3906 to form a part of the body 3908 of the hand-held vacuum portion 3808. The rod connector 3900 includes a longitudinal rod axis 3910 that extends through the first end region 3902 to the second end region 3904 and extends through at least a portion of the handle body 3906. The longitudinal rod axis 3910 may be parallel to the rod longitudinal axis 3814. For example, the longitudinal rod axis 3910 may be collinear with the rod longitudinal axis 3814.

[0239] The handle body 3906 may also include a handle 3912, for example, in the form of a pistol grip, that a user may grasp to manipulate the hand-held vacuum portion 3808. The handle body 3906 may optionally include one or more actuators (e.g., buttons) 3914. The actuator 3914 may be located anywhere on the hand-held vacuum portion 3808 (e.g., but not limited to, on the handle body 3906). The actuator 3914 may be configured to adjust one or more parameters of the hand-held vacuum portion 3808 and / or the head 3802. For example, the actuator 3914 may turn on the power of the suction motor 3812 and / or one or more rotatable agitators located in the head 3802.

[0240] Alternatively, or in addition to the actuator 3914, the handle body 3906 may include a trigger 3916 that is configured to adjust one or more parameters of the handheld vacuum portion 3808 and / or the head 3802. The trigger 3916 may be at least partially located between the handle 3912 and the rod connector 3900 and may be movable along a trigger direction 3918. The trigger direction 3918 may be linear or non-linear (e.g., arcuate, etc.). In at least one example, the trigger direction 3918 may be parallel to the longitudinal rod axis 3910 and / or the rod longitudinal axis 3814. For example, the trigger direction 3918 may be collinear with the longitudinal rod axis 3910 and / or the rod longitudinal axis 3814. The trigger direction 3918 may extend through at least a portion of the rod connector 3900 and / or the rod 3804. The trigger 3916 may be particularly suitable for adjusting the suction force of the suction motor 3812 and / or adjusting the rotational speed of one or more rotatable agitators located in the head 3802. The positioning of the trigger 3916 may provide an ergonomic design that facilitates the use of the vacuum cleaner 3800.

[0241] Reference Figures 40 - 47 , shows additional details of an example of the handheld vacuum portion 3808 of Figures 38 - 39 . Specifically, the air path 4000 may extend from the rod 3804 (not shown) through the rod connector 3900 (e.g., through the first end region 3902) and into the debris collection chamber 3810. At least some of the debris may be collected in the debris collection chamber 3810, for example, through the inlet 4001 ( Figures 43 - 44 ) of the debris collection chamber 3810, which inlet couples the second end region 3904 of the rod connector 3900. The air path 4000 may extend from the debris collection chamber 3810 through one or more primary filters 4002 (see, for example, Figures 43 - 44 ). In at least one example, the primary filter 4002 may include one or more cyclone filters 4004 generally shown, but it should be understood that any filter may be used. Optionally, the air path 4000 may extend through one or more secondary (e.g., second stage) filters 4006 (see, for example, Figure 45 ). The secondary filter 4006 may include any known filter, such as but not limited to a plurality of cyclones 4008. The plurality of second stage cyclones 4008 may be smaller than the primary filter 4002 and may be configured to separate smaller debris particles from the air path 4000 as compared to the primary filter 4002. The secondary filter 4006 may be located in the air path 4000 between the primary filter 4002 and the vacuum source 3812.

[0242] Optionally, one or more pre-motor filters 4010 may be provided (see, for example, Figure 46)。The pre-motor filter 4010 can be located in the air path 4000, between the primary filter 4002 and the vacuum source 3812, for example, between the secondary filter 4006 and the vacuum source 3812. The pre-motor filter 4010 can be configured to separate smaller debris particles from the air path 4000 compared to the primary filter 4002 and / or the secondary filter 4006. In at least one example, the pre-motor filter 4010 can include one or more foam layers, cloth, and / or woven layers, etc. Optionally, the exhaust in the air path 4000 can leave the vacuum source 3812 through one or more post-motor filters 4012 (see, for example Figure 47 ). The post-motor filter 4012 can include a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or the like.

[0243] Although the various features disclosed herein have been shown in combination with a manually operated vacuum cleaner, any one or more of these features can be incorporated into a robotic vacuum cleaner, as Figure 48 generally shown. It should be understood that the robotic vacuum cleaner shown is for illustrative purposes only, and the robotic vacuum cleaner may not include Figure 48 all of the features shown in Figure 48 and / or may include additional features not shown in

[0244] The robotic vacuum cleaner can include an air inlet 23 fluidly coupled to the debris compartment 30 and a suction motor 32. The suction motor 32 draws debris into the air inlet 23 and deposits it into the debris compartment 30 for later disposal. The robotic vacuum cleaner can optionally include one or more agitators 18 disposed at least partially within the air inlet 23. The agitator 18 can be driven by one or more motors disposed within the robotic vacuum cleaner. As a non-limiting example, the agitator 18 can include a rotatable liner bar with multiple bristles and / or sidewalls 62 (e.g., elastically deformable flaps). The robotic vacuum cleaner can include one or more wheels 16 coupled to respective drive motors 910. Thus, each wheel 16 can generally be described as being independently driven. The robotic vacuum cleaner can turn by adjusting the rotational speed of one wheel among the plurality of wheels 16 relative to another wheel among the plurality of wheels 16. One or more side brushes 918 can be positioned such that a portion of the side brush 918 extends at least to (e.g., beyond) the perimeter defined by the vacuum housing 13 of the robotic vacuum cleaner. The side brush 918 can be configured to push debris in the direction of the air inlet 23 such that debris located outside the perimeter of the vacuum housing 13 can be collected. For example, the side brush 918 can be configured to rotate in response to the activation of the side brush motor 920.The user interface 922 can be provided to allow a user to control the robotic vacuum cleaner. For example, the user interface 922 can include one or more buttons corresponding to one or more features of the robotic vacuum cleaner. The robotic vacuum cleaner can optionally include a power source (e.g., one or more batteries) and / or one or more displaceable buffers 912 disposed along a portion of the perimeter defined by the vacuum housing 13 of the robotic vacuum cleaner. The displaceable buffer 912 can be displaced in response to engaging (e.g., contacting) at least a portion of an obstacle spaced from the surface to be cleaned. Thus, the robotic vacuum cleaner can avoid getting stuck between the obstacle and the surface to be cleaned. The robotic vacuum cleaner can include any one or more of the various features disclosed herein.

[0245] Now turning to Figures 49 - 50C , another example of an elastically deformable flap 4900 is generally shown. The elastically deformable flap 4900 can be similar to Figures 28 - 37G the elastically deformable flaps and agitators described therein and can thus include any combination of the features described therein. For the sake of brevity, the following discussion will primarily focus on the differences. The elastically deformable flap 4900 can be used in combination with one or more rows of brush strips and / or tufts (e.g., one or more adjacent rows of brush strips and / or tufts) or with an agitator without the brush strips and / or tufts as described herein.

[0246] The elastically deformable flap 4900 includes an elongate body 4902 extending from a base 4904. The elongate body 4902 extends outwardly from the base 4904 and its distal end forms a cleaning edge 4906. The elongate body 4902 can have a generally planar front face 4908 and / or a rear face 4909; however, it should be understood that the front face 4908 and / or the rear face 4909 can be non-planar. As used herein, the front face 4808 of the elongate body 4902 refers to the face / surface of the elongate body 4902 that is closest to (and / or first contacts) the surface to be cleaned during cleaning when the flap 4900 is coupled to the agitator and the agitator is rotating (i.e., the "front side" of the flap 4900), while the rear face 4909 of the elongate body 4902 refers to the face of the elongate body 4902 that is generally opposite the front face 4908 (i.e., the "back side" of the flap 4900). The cleaning edge 4906 can extend linearly generally along the length L of the flap 4900 (i.e., from left to right as shown in Figure 50A ); however, it should be understood that the cleaning edge 4906 can also be non-linear.

[0247] Figure 50AThe distance D that the elongate body 4902 extends from the base 4904 can be constant or variable along the total length L. For example, as generally described herein, the distance between the base 4904 and the cleaning edge 4906 can be smaller in the first end region 4912 and / or the second end region 4913 than in the central region 4914. The first end region 4912 and / or the second end region 4913 can have a taper as generally described herein.

[0248] The base 4904 (which can also be referred to as the mounting edge) can be configured to be fixed to the flap 4900, which is fixed to the agitator, as generally described herein. As a non-limiting example, the base 4904 can include a "T" shape that is configured to be slidably advanced into a corresponding "T" channel formed in the agitator. The base / mounting edge 4904 can be formed by a single continuous segment as generally shown; however, it will be understood that the base / mounting edge 4904 can optionally include multiple segments (e.g., multiple contoured "T" segments produced in a mold), which straighten when the flap 4900 is installed in the agitator body, thereby creating a contoured (e.g., tapered) cleaning edge 4906 in the first end region 4912 and / or the second end region 4913 as generally described herein.

[0249] The elongate body 4902 can include one or more (e.g., a plurality of) protrusions 4920. The protrusions 4920 can be disposed on at least a portion of the front face 4908 of the elongate body 4902. In the example shown, the protrusions 4920 are disposed only on the front face 4908 of the elongate body 4902. However, it should be understood that the protrusions 4920 can be disposed on the front face 4908 and the rear face 4909 of the elongate body 4902. For example, separate protrusions 4902 can be disposed on the front face 4908 and the rear face 4909, and / or the protrusions 4920 can extend from the front face 4908 to the rear face 4909.

[0250] One or more of the protrusions 4920 can extend substantially across a significant portion of the length of the elongate body 4902, e.g., across at least 25% of the length of the elongate body 4902, at least 33% of the length of the elongate body 4902, at least 50% of the length of the elongate body 4902, at least 75% of the length of the elongate body 4902, at least 80% of the length of the elongate body 4902, at least 85% of the length of the elongate body 4902, at least 90% of the length of the elongate body 4902, at least 95% of the length of the elongate body 4902, including all values and ranges therebetween. The elastically deformable flap 4900 can optionally include two or more rows of protrusions 4920 that extend substantially across a significant portion of the length of the elongate body 4902.

[0251] Reference Figure 50B and 50C ,the protrusion 4920 may include a raised portion 4922 extending outward from the front face 4908 or the rear face 4909 of the elongate body 4902. For example, the raised portion 4922 may extend generally perpendicular to the front face 4908 or the rear face 4909 of the elongate body 4902. As shown, the raised portion 4922 may have a generally annular or ring shape; however, the raised portion 4922 may have other shapes including, but not limited to, rectangular shapes, star shapes, oval shapes, etc. Additionally, the raised portion 4922 may be a partial shape or a truncated shape (e.g., truncated annular or ring shape, rectangular shape, star shape, oval shape, etc.). The distance that the protrusion 4920 extends away from the face of the elongate body 4902 (e.g., the thickness of the raised portion 4922) may be selected based on durability, effectiveness of agitation and debris release, repeatability in manufacturing, and / or selected to minimize the likelihood of increased hair entanglement by remaining within the triangle created by the hair 5102.

[0252] The protrusion 4920 may optionally include a recessed portion 4924. The recessed portion 4924 may extend (e.g., inwardly relative to the front face 4908 from which the protrusion 4920 extends and / or inwardly relative to the rear face 4908 from which the protrusion 4920 extends) into the elongate body 4902. In the example shown, the recessed portion 4924 is at least partially disposed within the central region of the raised portion 4922. The raised portion 4922 may define the perimeter of the recessed portion 4924 (e.g., the raised portion 4922 may define the recessed portion 4924). The distance that the protrusion 4920 extends into the elongate body 4902 from the face (e.g., the thickness of the recessed portion 4924) may be selected to disperse sufficient molten material to form the raised portion 4922 and avoid reducing the overall durability of the flap 4900. The recessed portion 4924 may have a generally "melt pit" - like shape with a base at the lower / deepest point; however, the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration unless specifically required to be so.

[0253] Return to reference Figures 49 - 50A, a plurality of protrusions 4920 may be disposed along the length L of the flap 4900. For example, the protrusions 4920 may be arranged in one or more rows 4930 extending generally along the length L of the flap 4900. In the illustrated example, the protrusions 4920 are arranged in two rows 4930 (4930a, 4930b). Within each row 4930, the separation distance between adjacent protrusions 4920 (e.g., center to center) may be constant or variable along the length L. One or more of the rows 4930 (e.g., 4930a) may extend generally parallel to the cleaning edge 4906. One or more of the rows 4930 (e.g., 4930a) may extend generally parallel to another (e.g., adjacent) row 4930 (e.g., 4930b). The protrusions 4920 within the first row 4930 (e.g., row 4930a) may be offset from the protrusions 4920 in the adjacent row 4930 (e.g., row 4930b) from left to right. Offsetting the protrusions 4920 in adjacent rows 4930 may allow the protrusions 4920 to be grouped more closely together, thereby reducing / minimizing the "blank space" between the protrusions 4920 and increasing the likelihood that the surface to be cleaned will contact the protrusions 4920 when the agitator rotates. In at least one example, the protrusions 4920 may be spaced from the cleaning edge 4906 to reduce the likelihood of the protrusions 4920 scratching a hard (e.g., wooden) floor.

[0254] Reference Figure 51 , generally shows a cross-sectional view of another example of an elastically deformable flap consistent with Figures 49 - 50B . The elastically deformable flap 5200 may include two or more layers. For example, the elastically deformable flap 5200 may include a face layer 5202 and a backing layer 5204. As used herein, the face layer 5202 defines the front (e.g., during cleaning, when the flap 5200 is fixed to the agitator and the agitator rotates about its axis of rotation, the face layer 5202 faces the direction of rotation), and the backing layer 5204 defines the back (e.g., the backing layer 5204 is the opposite surface of the flap 5200 and is generally opposite the face layer 5202). The face layer 5202 may be configured to provide toughness / durability to the elastically deformable flap 5200, while the backing layer 5204 may be configured to provide elasticity and support to the face layer 5202. In at least one example, the face layer 5202 may include a fabric (e.g., but not limited to, woven or non-woven polyester fabric), and the backing layer 5204 may include an elastomer (e.g., but not limited to, silicone and / or rubber). It should be understood that the flap 5200 may include additional layers between the face layer 5202 and the backing layer 5204. Additionally, the flap 5200 may include only a single layer.

[0255] The facing layer 5202 and the backing layer 5204 can be joined together. For example, the facing layer 5202 and the backing layer 5204 can be bonded together, welded together, adhered together, etc. In at least some examples, the facing layer 5202 and the backing layer 5204 can be co-molded or overmolded together.

[0256] In the example shown, both the facing layer 5202 and the backing layer 5204 can form at least a part of the base 5206 of the flap 5200. The backing layer 5204 can extend across both the front portion 5208 and the rear portion 5209 of the base 5206, while the facing layer 5202 can extend only across the front portion 5208 of the base 5206. However, it should be understood that the base 5206 can be formed by only the facing layer 5202, only the backing layer 5204, or by a completely different layer (e.g., the base 5206 can be formed without the facing layer 5202 or the backing layer 5204).

[0257] In the example shown, when the flap 5200 is installed on the agitator, the facing layer 5202 extends further radially outward than the backing layer 5204. For example, the facing layer 5202 can extend away from the base 5206 by a distance D1, which is further than the distance D2 of the backing layer 5204. Thus, the outermost end of the facing layer 5202 can be configured to contact the surface to be cleaned, while the backing layer 5204 generally may not contact the surface to be cleaned. This configuration can be beneficial because the facing layer 5202 can be more durable / more wear-resistant than the backing layer 5204. The cleaning edge 5205 of the flap 5200 can form a trim that further enhances the durability / wear resistance of the facing layer 5202.

[0258] In one example, a plurality of protrusions 5210 can be formed in and / or can be formed only by the facing layer 5202. In other examples, the plurality of protrusions 5210 can extend into the facing layer 5202 but not into the backing layer 5204. Thus, the plurality of protrusions 5210 can extend into the facing layer 5202 and optionally into any layer between the facing layer 5202 and the backing layer 5204. In still other examples, the plurality of protrusions 5210 can be formed by and / or from at least a part of both the facing layer 5202 and the backing layer 5204 (and optionally any layer therebetween).

[0259] In any case, a plurality of protrusions 5210 can be formed by hot melting. For example, a hot melt head can be pressed onto and / or into the facing layer 5202 (and optionally the backing layer 5204 and / or any other layer) of the flap 5200 using a press (e.g., a hydraulic press having an upper plate and / or a lower plate, a pneumatic press, etc.). When the hot melt head is pushed towards the flap 5200, the hot melt head can be configured to melt a portion of the facing layer 5202 of the flap 5200 (e.g., but not limited to melting a polyester fabric) to form a plurality of protrusions 5210. When the facing layer 5202 melts, a portion of the melted facing layer 5202 flows away from the facing layer 5202 to form a raised portion 4922. This displaced portion of the melted facing layer 5202 also forms a recessed portion 4924. The hot melt head can be configured to melt only the facing layer 5202 (thereby keeping the backing layer 5204 intact). The hot melt head can also be configured to melt any additional layer (also referred to as an intermediate layer) between the facing layer 5202 and the backing layer 5204. The additional layer between the facing layer 5202 and the backing layer 5204 can form all or part of the plurality of protrusions 5210. The hot melt head can also be configured to melt the backing layer 5204, in which case the backing layer 5204 can optionally form all or part of the plurality of protrusions 5210. Additional hot melt heads can also be provided, e.g., to melt the backing layer 5204.

[0260] The plurality of protrusions 5210 can optionally form hardened polyester plastic protrusions. Since the plurality of protrusions 5210 are formed from the facing layer 5202, the "one-piece" construction between the facing layer 5202 and the plurality of protrusions 5210 increases the adhesion between the plurality of protrusions 5210 and the facing layer 5202. The locally hardened protrusions can increase agitation without affecting hair migration or hair entanglement. Relative to features made of compliant materials, the locally hardened protrusions can also provide high durability to withstand wear during the product life. The plurality of protrusions 5210 can also form a plurality of microscopic hooks that facilitate picking up hair or debris, and specifically facilitate picking up pet hair. As can be appreciated, the flaps on a agitator typically do not contribute much to hair pickup, and the agitator typically includes bristles (e.g., bristle strips and / or bristle tufts) to improve hair pickup.

[0261] Now turning to Figures 52 - 55 , various exemplary dimensions of an embodiment of an elastically deformable flap 5600 including a plurality of protrusions 5602 are generally shown that are consistent with Figures 49 - 51 . One or more of the protrusions 5602 can have an annulus 5604 with an outer diameter of 2.20 mm + / - 0.30 mm (see, e.g., Figure 52 and 54 ). This range of the outer diameter of the annulus 5604 can ensure that the facing layer (e.g., fabric) remains between the protrusions / ablated portions to maintain the service life / durability of the flap 5600.

[0262] One or more of the protrusions 5602 may have a thickness 5702 of the 3D ablation protrusion of 0.40 mm + / - 0.15 mm (see, for example, Figure 53 and 55 ). The thickness 5702 of the 3D ablation protrusion may also be referred to as the distance that the raised portion 5704 of the protrusion 5602 extends away from the outer surface of the facing layer. This thickness range 5702 of the 3D ablation protrusion is configured to provide sufficient height of the protrusion 5602 to effectively pick up pet hair from the carpet, while not being so high that the protrusion 5602 becomes fragile or locks onto debris.

[0263] One or more of the protrusions 5602 may have a center-to-center distance 5606 of the protrusions of 5.00 mm + / - 1.5 mm in the same row, and an offset 5608 of about 2.5 mm + / - 1.5 mm between adjacent rows (e.g., but not limited to, between the first row and the second row). These ranges can ensure that the facing layer (e.g., fabric) remains between the melting / ablation portions to maintain the service life / durability of the flap 5600, while also achieving 100% (or substantially 100%) coverage width.

[0264] One or more of the protrusions 5602 may have a center-to-center distance of 1.50 + / - 1.0 mm between the protrusions 5802 in each row ( Figure 54 ). This range of the center-to-center distance between the protrusions 5802 in each row can ensure that the facing layer (e.g., fabric) remains between the ablation portions to maintain the service life / durability of the flap 5600, while also bringing the second row of protrusions closer to the fin tip / cleaning edge to increase the effectiveness of pet hair pickup.

[0265] One or more of the protrusions 5602 may have a distance of 6.85 mm + 0.50 / - 0.60 mm from the protrusion closest to the fin tip / cleaning edge to the fin base 5610. This distance range from the protrusion closest to the fin tip / cleaning edge to the fin base 5610 is configured to provide a six-sigma tolerance stack-up where the protrusion 5602 will not scratch the bare floor. The protrusions in the first row (i.e., the row or protrusions farthest from the base) may be 1.75 mm + 0.50 / - 0.60 mm.

[0266] One or more of the protrusions 5602 enter a central recessed portion (e.g., "melt pit") in the facing layer (e.g., fabric surface) (see, for example, Figure 53 and 55) The depth 5712 can be 0.2 mm + / - 0.1 mm. This depth 5712 of the central recessed portion can be set by pressing down on the hot melt machine so that the hot head pin does not pierce the surface layer (e.g., fabric). This range can also be configured to maintain service life / durability while providing sufficient displaced molten polyester to form protrusions (e.g., ablated rings).

[0267] The protrusion 5602 can be formed by using hot melt 530, for example, using a hot melt head at a temperature of approximately 300 - 400 degrees Celsius for 1 - 2 seconds. In at least one example, the temperature used is 399 degrees Celsius for 1 second. The temperature of 399 degrees Celsius can produce a rapid deflection of the molten material to provide a semi-smooth protrusion / ablated ring with the desired height. The time of 1 second can allow the material to form the protrusion / ablated ring without becoming brittle or easily breakable. The temperature should be hot enough to effectively melt the surface layer (e.g., polyester) without damaging other layers (e.g., the backing layer). Lower temperatures can result in more drag of the molten debris, which can produce a more fragile protrusion and increase the risk of hair entanglement. Increasing the melting time after 2 seconds can make the protrusion more fragile, and the material can be easily removed from the flap 5200 when adhered to the hot head fixture.

[0268] It should be understood that the values and ranges described herein are for exemplary purposes only, and the present disclosure is not limited to these values unless expressly required. The number and placement of multiple protrusions can vary depending on the application. For example, multiple protrusions may not be arranged in rows, the spacing between adjacent protrusions can vary, and the size of multiple protrusions can vary.

[0269] Figure 56 A perspective view of an example of a stirrer 6000 having a body 6001 and a plurality of brush strips and / or a plurality of tufts 6002 is shown. The stirrer 6000 can optionally include one or more deformable flaps 6004. The deformable flap 6004 can include any sidewall or deformable flap described herein.

[0270] Multiple bristle strips and / or multiple tufts 6002 are arranged in one or more rows 6006. The rows may extend along and generally parallel to at least a portion of the corresponding deformable flap 6004 (e.g., the separation distance between the deformable flap 6004 and an adjacent row of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002 may deviate by less than 10%, such as less than 5% or less than 2%, along their co-extending portion). As shown, the length of the row of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002 is measured to be less than the length of the corresponding deformable flap 6004. In other words, the row of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002 extends only along a portion of the corresponding deformable flap 6004. For example, the measure of the length of the row of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002 may be less than half of the measure of the length of the corresponding deformable flap 6004. However, it should be understood that the row of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002 may have a length equal to or greater than the length of the corresponding deformable flap 6004. In some examples, the row of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002 may extend substantially from the first lateral end 6006 of the body 6001 of the agitator 6000 to substantially the second lateral end 6005 of the body 6001 of the agitator 6000.

[0271] One or more of the rows of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002 may be arranged in front of the corresponding deformable flap 6004 (e.g., from a rotational perspective, during cleaning, when the agitator rotates, the row of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002 contacts the surface to be cleaned before the corresponding deformable flap 6004 immediately adjacent to the row of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002). Alternatively (or additionally), one or more of the rows of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002 may be arranged behind the corresponding deformable flap 6004 (e.g., from a rotational perspective, during cleaning, when the agitator rotates, the row of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002 contacts the surface to be cleaned after the corresponding deformable flap 6004 immediately adjacent to the row of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002). Again, it should be understood that the rows of bristle strips and / or tufts 6002 need not be used in combination with the deformable flaps 6004.

[0272] Now turning to Figure 57, generally shows a cross-section of an example of a bristle strip and / or a row of tufts 6002. The bristle strip and / or the row of tufts 6002 can generally extend between a first opposite lateral end and a second opposite lateral end of the agitator body 6001 (e.g., generally left and right relative to the pivot axis PA). The bristle strip and / or the row of tufts 6002 can extend substantially entirely between the first lateral end and the second lateral end of the body 6001 (e.g., completely across the left and right of the body 6001), and / or partially between the first lateral end and the second lateral end of the body 6001 (e.g., partially across the left and right of the body 6001). In some examples, the bristle strip and / or the row of tufts 6002 can extend partially or entirely in a helical shape across all or a portion of the body 6001 (e.g., left and right). Alternatively (or additionally), the bristle strip and / or the row of tufts 6002 can extend partially or entirely in a substantially linear manner across all or a portion of the body 6001 (e.g., left and right). The bristle strip and / or the row of tufts 6002 can cover 75% to 100% of the outer surface of the body 6001, e.g., 50% to 75% of the outer surface of the body 6001, 40% to 50% of the outer surface of the body 6001, 30% to 40% of the outer surface of the body 6001, 20% to 30% of the outer surface of the body 6001, 10% to 20% of the outer surface of the body 6001, 5% to 10% of the outer surface of the body 6001, and / or 1% to 5% of the outer surface of the body 6001, including all ranges and values therein.

[0273] The bristle strip and / or the row of tufts 6002 includes a first bristle group 6102 and at least a second bristle group 6104, the first bristle group includes a plurality of nylon bristles 6103, and the at least second bristle group includes a plurality of para-aramid (e.g., Kevlar TM ) bristles 6105. The bristle strip and / or the row of tufts 6002 can optionally include one or more third bristle groups 6106, the one or more third bristle groups include a plurality of para-aramid (e.g., Kevlar TM ) bristles 6107. One or more of the third bristle groups 6106 can be similar to the second bristle group 6104. The second bristle group 6104 and the third bristle group 6106 can have bristles formed from a common filament (e.g., a single filament can form a "U" or "V" shape, where the base or middle section is fixed to the body 6001, and the other parts of the "U" or "V" shape form the bristles in the second bristle group 6104 and the third bristle group 6106. The bristle strip and / or the row of tufts 6002 can optionally include one or more fourth bristle groups (not shown) that can be similar to the first bristle group 6102, the one or more fourth bristle groups include a plurality of nylon bristles.

[0274] The first bristle group 6102 may extend along all or one or more portions of the bristle strip 6002. The second bristle group 6104 may extend along all or one or more portions of the bristle strip 6002. In some examples, the second bristle group 6104 may extend coextensively with the first bristle group 6102 (e.g., the second bristle group 6104 and the first bristle group 6102 may have the same length and / or may start / end at the same location on the body 6001). In other examples, the length of the second bristle group 6104 may be longer and / or shorter than the length of the first bristle group 6102 (e.g., the second bristle group 6104 may start and / or end at a different location on the body 6001 than the first bristle group 6102). In at least one example, the second bristle group 6104 may define the first bristle group 6102. The second bristle group 6104 may partially define the first bristle group 6102, e.g., the second bristle group 6104 may be about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, or about 90% of the first bristle group 6102. Alternatively, the first bristle group 6102 may define the second bristle group 6104. The first bristle group 6102 may partially define the second bristle group 6104, e.g., the first bristle group 6102 may be about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, or about 90% of the second bristle group 6104. As described above, one or more of the third bristle groups 6106 may be similar to the second bristle group 6104.

[0275] The second bristle group 6104 can be disposed substantially adjacent to the first bristle group 6102. At least a portion (e.g., all) of the second bristle group 6104 can be disposed in front of the first bristle group 6102 (i.e., during cleaning, when the agitator rotates about the pivot axis PA, the second bristle group 6104 can contact the surface to be cleaned before the first bristle group 6102). Disposing at least a portion (e.g., all) of the second bristle group 6104 in front of the first bristle group 6102 can reduce the roughness and / or sharpness of the bristle strips and / or rows of tufts 6002 when the agitator rotates during cleaning. It should be appreciated that the bristles of the first bristle group 6102, the second bristle group 6104, and / or the third bristle group 6106 can be angled. Thus, the distal ends of the bristles in any one of the first bristle group 6102, the second bristle group 6104, and / or the third bristle group 6106 can be disposed in front of and / or behind the bristles in another one of the first bristle group 6102, the second bristle group 6104, and / or the third bristle group 6106. In some examples, the relative positions of the first bristle group 6102, the second bristle group 6104, and / or the third bristle group 6106 can be described based on the relative positions of the bases of the bristles (i.e., the portions where the bristles extend immediately from the body 6001) within the first bristle group 6102, the second bristle group 6104, and / or the third bristle group 6106. The second bristle group 6404 and the third bristle group 6106 can be disposed on generally opposite sides of the first bristle group 6102. At least a portion (e.g., all) of the third bristle group 6106 can be disposed behind the first bristle group 6102 (i.e., during cleaning, when the agitator rotates about the pivot axis PA, the third bristle group 6106 can contact the surface to be cleaned after the first bristle group 6102). In some examples, the second bristle group 6104 and / or the third bristle group 6106 can contact the first bristle group 6102.

[0276] The parameters of the first bristle group 6102 and the second bristle group 6104 can vary according to the intended application. The following examples are provided for illustrative purposes and are not a limitation of the present disclosure, unless expressly required. The first bristle group 6102 may have a filament (bristle) density of 240 fil / cm (±10%) (as measured at the base of the first bristle group 6102 close to the body 6001). The first bristle group 6102 may have a filament (bristle) diameter of 0.1 mm (±0.015 mm). The height of the first bristle group 6102 (i.e., the distance away from the base 6001 and generally perpendicular to the rotational axis of the agitator) may be 10.3 mm (±0.25 mm). The length of the first bristle group 6102 (i.e., the distance generally measured between the lateral ends of the agitator) may be 95.7 mm (±0.5 mm). The width of the first bristle group 6102 (i.e., the distance generally measured front-to-back between the lateral ends of the agitator at the base of the first bristle group 6102 close to the body 6001) may be 0.5 mm (±1 mm).

[0277] The second bristle group 6104 may have a filament (bristle) density of 11952 fil / cm (±10%) (as measured at the base of the second bristle group 6104 close to the body 6001). The second bristle group 6104 may have a filament (bristle) diameter of 0.02 mm (±0.01 mm). The height of the second bristle group 6104 (i.e., the distance away from the base 6001 and generally perpendicular to the rotational axis of the agitator) may be 10.3 mm (±0.25 mm). The height of the second bristle group 6104 may be the same as the height of the first bristle group 6102. The height of the second bristle group 6104 may be longer than the height of the first bristle group 6102. The height of the second bristle group 6104 may be shorter than the height of the first bristle group 6102. The length of the second bristle group 6104 (i.e., the distance generally measured between the lateral ends of the agitator) may be 95.7 mm (±0.5 mm). The width of the second bristle group 6104 (i.e., the distance generally measured front-to-back between the lateral ends of the agitator at the base of the second bristle group 6104 close to the body 6001) may be 0.5 mm (±1 mm).

[0278] The third bristle group 6106 may have a filament (bristle) density of 11952 fil / cm (±10%) (as measured at the base of the third bristle group 6106 proximate to the body 6001). The third bristle group 6106 may have a filament (bristle) diameter of 0.02 mm (±0.01 mm). The height of the third bristle group 6106 (i.e., the distance substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the agitator away from the base 6001) may be 10.3 mm (±0.25 mm). The length of the third bristle group 6106 (i.e., the distance measured substantially between the lateral ends of the agitator) may be 95.7 mm (±0.5 mm). The width of the third bristle group 6106 (i.e., the distance measured substantially front-to-back between the lateral ends of the agitator at the base of the third bristle group 6106 proximate to the body 6001) may be 0.5 mm (±1 mm).

[0279] Testing was performed using four different agitators, the four different agitators including three different nylon bristle agitators (BR1, BR2, BR3) and one Kevlar agitator (BR4) using a brush roll isolation device. BR1 included only nylon bristles with a 0.1 mm filament diameter (480 fil / cm^2 density). BR2 included only nylon bristles with a 0.2 mm filament diameter (72 fil / cm^2 density). BR3 included only nylon bristles with a 0.04 mm filament diameter (1450 fil / cm^2 density). BR4 included only Kevlar bristles with a 0.02 mm filament diameter (11952 fil / cm^2 density). Flap plates were removed from all brush rolls (i.e., only bristles remained). A 1 1 / 4” capacitive microphone was placed 20 cm from the center axis of the brush roll to record time-domain sound pressure data. The RPM was kept low so that motor noise would not confound the data, and an optical tachometer was used to monitor and maintain consistency between tests. The power spectral density, sharpness, and roughness of the time-domain data were calculated.

[0280] The results of the tests (see, for example, Figures 58 - 59) It is indicated that the Kevlar bristles do not affect the overall sound pressure level of the brush roll, and the levels of all four brush rolls are similar. The Kevlar bristles significantly reduce the roughness of the brush roll. Each time the brush roll rotates, each row of bristles contacts the floor once (e.g., 4 rows = 4 times in total). This contact is considered to generate a pressure wave, which increases the total amplitude of the brush roll pressure. The varying amplitude is considered to generate roughness, and by using a softer material (e.g., Kevlar), this amplitude variation appears less drastic. The Kevlar bristles significantly reduce the sharpness of the brush roll. Kevlar should be understood to be less "scratchy" than nylon, thus reducing the high-frequency content, which is considered to be attributed to the smaller filament diameter (since nylon bristles with a smaller diameter are considered to have a lower sharpness than those with a larger diameter). By placing Kevlar on the outer side of the nylon / Kevlar sandwich (i.e., the first bristle group 6102 and the second bristle group 6104), the Kevlar (e.g., the second bristle group 6104) is the contact surface of the agitator, thereby reducing roughness and / or reducing sharpness.

[0281] As used herein, roughness is defined as a psychoacoustic metric that describes the amount of rapid amplitude modulation, i.e., it describes the rapid variation of the SPL of a sound, and is measured in asper (with a maximum of 1 asper). As used herein, sharpness is defined as a psychoacoustic metric that quantifies the high-frequency content of a signal, and is measured in acum. As used herein, A-weighting is defined as a method of weighting frequency-domain data, which scales the frequency-domain data to more accurately represent how humans will perceive these frequencies (based on equal-loudness curves). As used herein, power spectral density is defined as how the sound power of a signal varies with frequency. As used herein, sound pressure level is defined as the pressure level of a sound (SPL = 20 * log10(pressure / (20 * 10^-6))).

[0282] It should be understood that multiple protrusions can be formed by molding. Refer to Figure 60 , which generally shows an example of an elastically deformable flap 6400 including multiple molded protrusions 6402. For example, the multiple protrusions can be molded polyurethane protrusions 6402. The multiple protrusions 6402 can be molded from a flap made entirely of plastic, such as entirely made of polyurethane, etc. The flap 6400 can be molded with raised protrusions / bumps 6402 to mimic the appearance and / or function of ablation points. The molded protrusions 6402 can use the same spacing and distribution as the ablation points, but the profile is set to match the curve of the fin / flap 6400. In at least one example, the molded flap 6400 and protrusions 6402 can be molded using 57A polyurethane rubber. The flap 6400 and protrusions 6402 can be molded entirely from polyurethane.

[0283] Examples of agitators for a vacuum cleaner consistent with the present disclosure may include a body and at least one deformable flap extending from the body. The deformable flap may include at least one cone. The at least one cone brings a cleaning edge of the deformable flap closer to the body.

[0284] In some cases, the at least one cone may extend in an end region of the at least one deformable flap. In some cases, the at least one cone may include a first cone and a second cone, each cone extending in a corresponding end region of the deformable flap. In some cases, the first cone may have a first slope, and the second cone may have a second slope, the first slope being measured in a manner different from the second slope. In some cases, the deformable flap may include a woven material. In some cases, the deformable flap may include a trim along the cleaning edge. In some cases, the deformable flap may include a mounting edge having a plurality of segments that, when mounted to the body, cause the cones to be formed within the deformable flap. In some cases, the at least one deformable flap may include a plurality of deformable flaps, each deformable flap extending helically around the body and wherein the length of each deformable flap is measured to be less than the length of the body. In some cases, each deformable flap may extend from an end region of the body to a central region of the body. In some cases, the agitator may further include at least one brush strip extending generally parallel to a corresponding deformable flap. In some cases, the length of the at least one brush strip may be measured to be less than the length of the corresponding deformable flap.

[0285] Examples of vacuum cleaners consistent with the present disclosure may include: an agitator chamber including one or more ribs; and an agitator disposed within the agitator chamber such that at least a portion of the agitator engages the one or more ribs. The agitator may include a body and at least one deformable flap extending from the body. The deformable flap may include at least one cone. The at least one cone brings a cleaning edge of the deformable flap closer to the body.

[0286] In some cases, the one or more ribs may be provided at opposite distal ends of the agitator chamber. In some cases, the at least one cone may include a first cone and a second cone, the first cone and the second cone extending within opposite end regions of a corresponding deformable flap. In some cases, the ribs may extend from the agitator lid. In some cases, the agitator lid may be an end cap. In some cases, the agitator may further include at least one brush strip extending generally parallel to a corresponding deformable flap. In some cases, the length of the at least one brush strip may be measured as less than the length of the corresponding deformable flap. In some cases, the at least one cone may include a first cone and a second cone, each cone extending within a corresponding end region of the deformable flap. In some cases, the first cone may have a first slope and the second cone may have a second slope, the first slope being measured in a different manner than the second slope. In some cases, the body may include a cone extending towards a central region of the body.

[0287] While the principles of the invention have been described herein, those skilled in the art will understand that this description is by way of example only and not as a limitation on the scope of the invention. Other embodiments are within the scope of the invention in addition to the illustrative embodiments shown and described herein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the surface cleaning device and / or agitator may embody any one or more of the features contained herein, and these features may be used in any particular combination or sub-combination. Modifications and substitutions by those of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the invention, the scope of which is limited only by the claims.

Claims

1. A stirrer for a vacuum cleaner, characterized in that, Comprising: A stirrer body; And An elastically deformable flap that extends outward from the stirrer body, the elastically deformable flap comprising: A front face; A rear face; and One or more protrusions that extend outward from the front face, wherein the one or more protrusions include a raised portion that extends outward from the front face and a recessed portion that extends inward from the front face.

2. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes a first brush strip and / or a row of tufts disposed adjacent to the first deformable flap.

3. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more protrusions include a first set of protrusions arranged in a first row.

4. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The one or more protrusions include a second set of protrusions arranged in a second row.

5. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first row and the second row are substantially parallel to each other.

6. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 4, wherein, The first set of protrusions in the first row is offset from left to right relative to the second set of protrusions in the second row.

7. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastically deformable flap includes a polyester layer and a silicone layer, the polyester layer forms the front face, and the silicone layer forms at least a part of the rear face.

8. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 7, characterized in that, The one or more protrusions are formed only in the polyester layer.

9. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes a surface layer coupled to a backing layer, the surface layer forms the front face, and the backing layer forms the rear face.

10. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 9, characterized in that, At least a part of the surface layer melts to at least partially form the one or more protrusions.

11. The stirrer for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 10, wherein the melted surface layer forms one or more protrusions having a local hardness.

12. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 10, wherein A part of the melted surface layer flows away from the surface layer to form the raised portion and the recessed portion.

13. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 10, characterized in that, Only a part of the surface layer melts to form the one or more protrusions.

14. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, wherein, Also includes a surface layer coupled to a backing layer through one or more intermediate layers, wherein at least a part of the intermediate layer melts to at least partially form the one or more protrusions.

15. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 14, characterized in that, At least a part of the surface layer melts to form at least a part of the one or more protrusions.

16. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first row is set at 1.75 mm +0.50 / -0.60 mm from the cleaning edge of the elastically deformable flap.

17. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more protrusions include a raised portion that extends outward from the front face, and the raised portion has a generally annular shape.

18. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more protrusions include a raised portion that extends outward from the front face, and the raised portion has a generally annulus shape.

19. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 18, characterized in that, The one or more protrusions have an outer diameter of the annulus of 2.20 mm + / -0.30 mm.

20. The agitator for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first set of protrusions has a center-to-center distance of the protrusions of 5.00 mm.

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