Cleaning head for a surface cleaner, a floor plate for a vacuum cleaner head and a surface cleaner

Abstract

Disclosed are a cleaning head for a surface cleaner, a floor plate for a vacuum cleaner head, and a surface cleaner. A cleaning head for a surface cleaner can include a wall pivotable between a deployed position and a stowed position. The wall can be in the deployed position when the cleaning head is moved forward along a surface to be cleaned, and the wall can be in the stowed position when the cleaning head is moved rearward along the surface. The wall in the deployed position can be a first distance from the surface, and the wall in the stowed position can be a second, greater distance from the surface. The wall can be pivotable by at least one foot depending on the direction of movement of the cleaning head. The cleaning head can include a plurality of tabs or castellations rearward of the wall and a plurality of channels arranged between the plurality of tabs. The plurality of channels can direct a flow of air toward a suction inlet when the cleaning head is moved rearward.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] PCT / US2024 / 044420 ('736 Publication), published on March 6, 2025, describes various exemplary embodiments and features related to devices and systems for surface cleaners, and specifically relates to cleaning heads capable of reverse cleaning. The '736 Publication is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and is a part of this disclosure. The embodiments described below are compatible with and may be part of the embodiments described in the '736 Publication, and some or all of the features described below may be used or otherwise combined together or in combination with any features described in the '736 Publication.

[0003] US18 / 663,384 ('384 application), filed May 14, 2024, describes various exemplary embodiments and features related to devices and systems for orientation-aware vacuum cleaners, and specifically relates to a cleaning head with an articulated debris scraper. '384 application is expressly incorporated in its entirety by reference and is a part of this disclosure. The embodiments described below are compatible with and may be part of the embodiments described in '384 application, and some or all of the features described below may be used or otherwise combined together or in combination with any features described in '384 application.

[0004] US18 / 786,438 ('438 application), filed July 27, 2024, describes various exemplary embodiments and features relating to devices and systems for vacuum cleaners with scrapers. '438 application is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and is a part of this disclosure. The embodiments described below are compatible with and may be part of the embodiments described in '438 application, and some or all of the features described below may be used or otherwise combined together or in combination with any features described in '438 application. Technical Field

[0005] This disclosure relates in some respects to surface cleaners, and more specifically to surface cleaners with improved reverse cleaning. Background Technology

[0006] Surface cleaners can be used to clean a variety of surfaces. A non-limiting example of a surface cleaner may include an upright vacuum cleaner, which may include a cleaning head. Some surface cleaners include a rotating agitator in the cleaning head for cleaning. Utility Model Content

[0007] A surface cleaner's cleaning head may include an agitator (also called a brush roller or cleaning roller), multiple wheels, and a scraper or wall disposed between the agitator and the multiple wheels. When the cleaning head moves in the forward direction, the suction inlet of the cleaning head is located in front of the scraper or wall. When the cleaning head moves in the reverse or rearward direction, the suction inlet is located behind the scraper or wall.

[0008] As the cleaning head moves along the surface to be cleaned (e.g., a floor) in a forward direction (e.g., forward stroke), the scraper can push debris from the surface forward toward the suction inlet (pick up debris in front of the scraper). The scraper or wall can form a seal, or at least a partial seal, with the surface to reduce air leakage behind the suction inlet, thereby increasing air velocity in other directions around the suction inlet, which can improve debris pickup in those other directions. In some cases, debris slightly outside the physical periphery or coverage area of ​​the suction inlet or cleaning head can be picked up. Therefore, as the cleaning head moves in its forward stroke, the scraper or wall can improve edge cleaning and overall debris removal.

[0009] As the cleaning head moves along the surface to be cleaned in the backward direction (e.g., backward stroke), debris lies behind the scraper or wall and is thus separated from the suction inlet by the scraper or wall. Not only may debris be prevented from being picked up into the suction inlet, but it may also be pushed and dispersed by the scraper or wall during the reverse stroke (also known as the problem of "reverse snow plowing"), making the surface more difficult to clean. In some cases, the scraper may get stuck when encountering large pieces of debris, and the user may need to lift the cleaning head above the large debris to continue cleaning. Therefore, the user may spend more time and / or exert more effort to clean the floor.

[0010] This disclosure provides various embodiments of a cleaning head with improved reverse cleaning capabilities without affecting forward stroke cleaning performed with a scraper or wall.

[0011] In some aspects, this document discloses a cleaning head for a surface cleaner, comprising: a suction inlet; a cleaning roller at least partially disposed within the suction inlet; a wall movable between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein: the wall is in an extended position when the cleaning head moves forward along the surface to be cleaned; the wall is in a retracted position when the cleaning head moves rearward along the surface to be cleaned; the wall in the extended position is at a first distance from the surface; the wall in the retracted position is at a second distance from the surface, the second distance being greater than the first distance; and at least one downward protrusion operatively coupled to the wall, wherein rearward movement of the cleaning head causes the downward protrusion to operatively move the wall from the extended position to the retracted position; a plurality of crenellations located behind the wall when the cleaning head moves forward; and a plurality of channels disposed between the plurality of crenellations, which guide airflow toward the suction inlet when the cleaning head moves rearward.

[0012] In some aspects, the cleaning head includes a base plate that is attached to a portion of the cleaning head at the bottom of the cleaning head, wherein a plurality of crenellations are integrally formed on the base plate, and wherein the walls are separate from the base plate.

[0013] In some aspects, the cleaning head includes a base plate that is attached to a portion of the cleaning head at the bottom of the cleaning head, wherein the base plate includes walls and a plurality of crenellations.

[0014] In some aspects, the base plate is connected to the cleaning head via multiple fasteners.

[0015] In some aspects, multiple fasteners are spaced apart from each other across multiple channels.

[0016] In some respects, multiple channels are not parallel in the forward-backward direction of the cleaning head.

[0017] In some respects, multiple channels are angled toward the center of the cleaning head.

[0018] In some respects, the at least one downward protrusion has a length and is angled relative to the cleaning head, such that when the cleaning head moves in the forward direction, the at least one downward protrusion can move along the surface, and when the cleaning head moves in the rearward direction, the at least one downward protrusion can pivot such that the wall moves from the unfolded position to the retracted position.

[0019] In some aspects, the at least one downward protrusion includes feet, and the cleaning head also includes two feet positioned laterally near the cleaning head.

[0020] In some respects, the shapes of multiple crenellations are polygonal.

[0021] In some aspects, the cleaning head includes a flexible hinge that connects the wall to the cleaning head, allowing the wall to pivot between an extended position and a retracted position.

[0022] In some respects, at least one crenellation overlaps with an adjacent crenellation.

[0023] In some aspects, this document discloses a base plate for a vacuum cleaner head, comprising: a wall movable between a first position when the base plate moves along a surface to be cleaned in a first direction and a second position when the base plate moves along the surface in a second direction, the first direction being different from the second direction, wherein: the wall in the first position is a first distance from the surface; and the wall in the second position is a second distance from the surface, the second distance being greater than the first distance; a plurality of crenellations; and a plurality of channels arranged between the plurality of crenellations when the base plate moves in the first direction, and capable of guiding airflow toward the front of the base plate when the base plate moves in the second direction.

[0024] In some aspects, the base plate is connected to the cleaning head via multiple fasteners.

[0025] In some aspects, multiple fasteners are spaced apart from each other across multiple channels.

[0026] In some respects, multiple channels are not parallel in the forward-backward direction of the base plate.

[0027] In some respects, multiple channels are angled toward the center of the base plate.

[0028] In some respects, the base plate includes feet that enable the wall to move between a first position and a second position.

[0029] In some respects, the foot has length and is angled relative to the base plate, so that when the base plate moves in a first direction, the foot can move along the surface, and when the base plate moves in a second direction, the foot can pivot such that the wall moves from a first position to a second position.

[0030] In some respects, the base plate includes two feet positioned laterally near the base plate.

[0031] In some respects, the shapes of multiple crenellations are polygonal.

[0032] In some respects, at least one crenellation overlaps with an adjacent crenellation.

[0033] In some respects, the base plate includes a flexible hinge that connects the wall to the base plate, allowing the wall to pivot between a first position and a second position.

[0034] In some respects, this article discloses a cleaning head for a surface cleaner, comprising: a suction inlet; and a base plate.

[0035] In some respects, this article discloses a surface cleaner that includes a handle, a suction motor, a dust collector, a debris separator, and a cleaning head. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Various aspects and / or embodiments will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These aspects and / or embodiments are shown and described by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Various features of the disclosed aspects and / or embodiments may be combined to form additional aspects and / or embodiments as part of this disclosure.

[0037] Figure 1A This is an exemplary schematic diagram of a surface cleaner according to aspects of this disclosure.

[0038] Figure 1B The cleaning head of a surface cleaner is schematically shown in the forward stroke.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a vacuum cleaner system according to aspects of this disclosure.

[0040] Figure 3 A perspective view of an exemplary cleaning head according to aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0041] Figure 3A Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 3 The cleaning head along Figure 3 A three-dimensional sectional view, partially enlarged and cut off from line 3A-3A;

[0042] Figure 3B Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 3 A close-up view of the area near the reverse cleaning assembly and Hall effect sensor circuitry of the cleaning head.

[0043] Figure 3C The following describes operation in the forward direction according to aspects of this disclosure. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the cleaning head.

[0044] Figure 3D The following describes operation in the backward direction according to aspects of this disclosure. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the cleaning head.

[0045] Figure 4 A perspective view of an exemplary cleaning head according to aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0046] Figure 4A Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A top perspective view of an exemplary base plate.

[0047] Figure 4B Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A A bottom-view perspective of the base plate, with the wall in the first position.

[0048] Figure 4C Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A Top view of the base plate.

[0049] Figure 4D Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A A bottom view of the base plate, with the wall in the first position.

[0050] Figure 4E Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A The front view of the base plate, with the wall in the first position.

[0051] Figure 4F Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A Rear view of the base plate, with the wall in the first position.

[0052] Figure 4G Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A A side view of the base plate, with the wall in the first position.

[0053] Figure 4H Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A A three-dimensional side view of the base plate, in which the wall is in the first position.

[0054] Figure 4I Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A A three-dimensional sectional view of the base plate, in which the wall is in the first position.

[0055] Figure 4J Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A A three-dimensional sectional view of a portion of the base plate, with the wall in the first position.

[0056] Figure 4K Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A The front view of the base plate, with the wall in the second position.

[0057] Figure 4L Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A Rear view of the base plate, with the wall in the second position.

[0058] Figure 4M Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A A side view of the base plate, with the wall in the second position.

[0059] Figure 4N Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 4A A side perspective view of the base plate, with the wall in the second position.

[0060] Figure 4O It shows Figure 4A A three-dimensional view of the hinged walls and foot components of the base plate.

[0061] Figure 4P It shows Figure 4A The bottom view of the base plate and the exemplary cleaning head.

[0062] Figure 5A It shows Figure 4A A schematic top view of multiple protrusions on the base plate.

[0063] Figure 5B It shows Figure 4A Front view of the protrusion on the base plate.

[0064] Figure 5C The diagram schematically illustrates the movement of debris across the crenellations of the cleaning head during the reverse stroke.

[0065] Figure 5D The illustration schematically shows debris that has moved through the crenellations and been blocked from leaving the cleaning head.

[0066] Figure 6A A top view of a portion of an exemplary base plate with multiple protrusions is shown.

[0067] Figure 6B A top view of another exemplary base plate with multiple protrusions is shown.

[0068] Figure 6C A perspective view of another exemplary base plate with multiple protrusions is shown.

[0069] Figure 6D A top view of another exemplary base plate with multiple protrusions is shown.

[0070] Figure 6E A top view of another exemplary base plate with multiple protrusions is shown.

[0071] Figure 7A A cross-sectional view of an exemplary reverse cleaning component is shown.

[0072] Figure 7B A cross-sectional view of another exemplary reverse cleaning component is shown.

[0073] Figure 7C A perspective view of another exemplary reverse cleaning component is shown.

[0074] Figure 7D A cross-sectional view of another exemplary reverse cleaning component is shown.

[0075] Figure 7E A cross-sectional view of another exemplary reverse cleaning component is shown.

[0076] Figure 7F A cross-sectional view of another exemplary reverse cleaning component is shown.

[0077] Figure 8A An airflow into an exemplary cleaning head is shown, which has no protrusions.

[0078] Figure 8B An airflow into an exemplary cleaning head with multiple protrusions is shown.

[0079] Figure 9 A perspective view of another exemplary base plate according to an aspect of this disclosure is shown.

[0080] Figure 10A A perspective view of another exemplary base plate according to an aspect of this disclosure is shown.

[0081] Figure 10B Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 10A A bottom view of the base plate.

[0082] Figure 10C Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 10A A side view of the base plate, with the wall in the first position.

[0083] Figure 10D Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 10A A side view of the base plate, with the wall in the second position.

[0084] Figure 11A A perspective view of another exemplary cleaning head and base plate according to aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0085] Figure 11B Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 11A A three-dimensional view of the base plate. Detailed Implementation

[0086] This disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals may refer to the same elements throughout. The following description is illustrative in nature only and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or its use. Furthermore, the apparatuses, systems, and / or methods disclosed herein may include several novel features, wherein no single feature is solely responsible for its desired properties or is essential for practicing the apparatuses, systems, and / or methods disclosed herein. Additionally, the structures, systems, and / or apparatuses described herein may be embodied as integrated components or separate components.

[0087] Some aspects and / or embodiments have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings may be drawn to scale, but this scale is not limiting, as dimensions and scales other than those shown are considered and are within the scope of the disclosed utility model. Distances, angles, etc., are illustrative only and do not necessarily have a precise relationship to the actual dimensions and layout of the illustrated device. Components may be added, removed, and / or reconfigured. Furthermore, any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, etc., disclosed herein in connection with various embodiments can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, any method described herein can be practiced using any apparatus suitable for performing the enumerated steps. The various steps within the method may be performed in a different order without altering the principles of this disclosure.

[0088] This document discloses a cleaning head for a surface cleaner, such as a vacuum cleaner. It also discloses a base plate (base plate) that can be attached to the cleaning head for the surface cleaner and / or otherwise formed part of the cleaning head for the surface cleaner. The cleaning head can move along the surface to be cleaned to collect debris from the surface. The cleaning head, such as the base plate of the cleaning head, or other components of the cleaning head may include walls (e.g., doors, hinged walls, flexible strips, blades, scrapers, scrapers, bristles, etc.) configured to switch between a first (e.g., deployed, engaged) position and a second (e.g., retracted, withdrawn, disengaged) position (e.g., rotated, pivoted). The wall can be configured to switch between the first and second positions according to the direction of movement of the cleaning head along the surface. For example, the wall may be in the first position when the cleaning head moves along the surface in a forward direction (e.g., forward stroke), and / or in the second position when the cleaning head moves along the surface in a backward direction (e.g., backward stroke). In some aspects, when in the first position (e.g., during forward stroke), the wall may guide debris from the surface toward the suction inlet of the cleaning head. In some respects, when in the second position (e.g., during backward travel), the wall can allow debris to pass beneath it, allowing the suction inlet to move near the debris for collection (e.g., vacuum cleaning). The bottom edge of the wall can be a first distance from the surface to be cleaned in the first position and a second distance from the surface in the second position. The first distance can be smaller than the second distance, such that the bottom edge of the wall is closer to the surface in the first position than in the second position. The first distance can be small enough to prevent debris from passing beneath the wall. The second distance can be large enough to allow debris to pass beneath the wall.

[0089] The cleaning head, such as the base plate of the cleaning head, or other components of the cleaning head, may include one or more feet (also referred to as downward projections) configured to cause the wall to transition between a first position and a second position (e.g., rotation, pivot). For example, the one or more feet may be configured to pivot in a first direction (e.g., away from the surface) during a backward stroke (e.g., via contact with the surface to be cleaned), such that the wall is driven (e.g., rotated, pivoted) from the first position to the second position in a manner away from the surface. The one or more feet may be configured to pivot in a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., toward the surface) during a forward stroke, such that the wall transitions toward the surface from the second position (e.g., rotated, pivoted) to the first position.

[0090] The wall can function as the wall disclosed herein during the forward stroke and allow debris to pass through during the backward stroke (e.g., below), which can reduce reverse snow removal problems. However, the gap between the bottom edge of the wall in the second position and the surface can lead to air leakage and reduced sealing behind the suction inlet. Furthermore, the gap may be less effective or unable to prevent debris from splashing back from the cleaning head during the reverse stroke (such as when debris contacts the agitator). To address these and other issues, the cleaning head, such as the base plate of the cleaning head or other components of the cleaning head, may include multiple protrusions (e.g., castellations) positioned behind the wall. The castellations can face the surface to be cleaned when the cleaning head rests on the surface. Multiple channels (e.g., air ducts) are arranged between the multiple castellations. The multiple channels can be configured to improve airflow by increasing the air velocity around the suction inlet (including behind, in front of, and to the sides of the suction inlet) during the backward stroke. The crenellations can be shaped to prevent or at least reduce debris from splashing out of the cleaning head during the backward stroke.

[0091] Exemplary diagram

[0092] Figure 1A This is an exemplary schematic diagram of a surface cleaner 100. The surface cleaner 100 may include a cleaning head 102, which may include one or more nozzle wheels 103 rotatably coupled thereto, an upright section 104, a dust cup 106, a suction motor 108, and / or an agitator 116 (e.g., a roller brush). The suction motor 108 may be fluidly coupled to a suction inlet 110 of the cleaning head 102. The suction motor 108 may be configured to generate an airflow into the suction inlet 110 of the cleaning head 102, such that debris can be drawn from the surface 180 to be cleaned (e.g., a floor). At least a portion of the debris entrained in the airflow may be deposited in the dust cup 106 for later disposal (e.g., by the user of the surface cleaner 100). After passing through the dust cup 106, the airflow may be discharged from the suction motor 108 at an outlet 112.

[0093] The surface cleaner 100 can be configured to move relative to the surface 180 to be cleaned, at least according to directions 182 and 184. As used herein, a user moving the surface cleaner 100 in the direction indicated by direction 182 (e.g., forward stroke) is considered a forward direction, i.e., the user is pushing the surface cleaner 100 away from the user. A user moving the surface cleaner 100 in the direction indicated by direction 184 (e.g., backward stroke) is considered a reverse direction, i.e., the user is pulling the surface cleaner 100 back towards the user. Direction 182 may extend from the one or more nozzle wheels 103 toward the agitator 116, and / or direction 184 may extend from the agitator 116 toward the one or more nozzle wheels 103.

[0094] The cleaning head 102 may include a hinged scraper or a wall 118. The wall 118 may be disposed between the one or more nozzle wheels 103 and the agitator 116. The wall 118 may extend along an axis substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the one or more nozzle wheels 103 and / or the agitator 116. The wall 118 may be configured to cooperate with the agitator 116 to facilitate debris entry into the suction inlet 110 as the surface cleaner 100 moves according to directions 182 and 184. In some cases, at least one of the one or more nozzle wheels 103 may be configured such that rotational motion of the at least one nozzle wheel 103 is transmitted to the wall 118, thereby causing a corresponding motion in the wall 118. Additional details are further described in the '736 publication, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0095] like Figure 1B As shown, when the cleaning head 102 moves along the surface 180 (e.g., a floor) to be cleaned according to the forward direction of movement (e.g., forward stroke), the wall 118 is in a first position and can push debris 190 on the surface 180 forward toward the suction inlet 110 (pick up debris in front of the scraper). The scraper or wall 118 can form a seal or at least a partial seal with the surface 180 to reduce air leakage behind the suction inlet 110, thereby increasing the air velocity in other directions around the suction inlet 110, which can improve debris pickup in other directions. In some cases, debris slightly outside the physical periphery of the suction inlet and / or the cleaning head can be picked up. Therefore, as the cleaning head moves in its forward stroke, the scraper or wall can improve edge cleaning and overall debris removal.

[0096] Figure 2A block diagram of a vacuum cleaner system 200 is shown. The vacuum cleaner system 200 can be a surface cleaner 100 or any other surface cleaner disclosed herein. The vacuum cleaner system 200 can include, for example, an upright vacuum system, a canister vacuum system, a handheld vacuum system, a battery-powered vacuum system, a central vacuum cleaner, etc. The system 200 can include a handle or base portion 202 (“handle / base 202”) and / or a cleaning head 204. The cleaning head 204 can be movable (e.g., rollable) relative to the surface to be cleaned (e.g., a floor). The cleaning head 204 can be similar to or identical to any cleaning head described herein in some or all respects. The cleaning head 204 can include a controllable cleaning roller 206 and / or controllable motor circuitry 208 to control the rotational speed of the cleaning roller 206 (e.g., revolutions per minute (RPM)). The cleaning head 204 may include a wall 210 (e.g., a door, hinged wall, flexible strip, wing, scraper, blade, bristles) that can push and / or collect debris along a surface in contact with the cleaning head 204, as will be described in more detail below. The wall 210 is pivotally coupled to the cleaning head 204. The wall 210 can be deployed in a first (e.g., deployed, engaged) position and / or a second (e.g., retracted, folded, disengaged) position. In some aspects, the wall 210 can switch between a first (e.g., deployed) position and a second (e.g., folded) position depending on the rolling direction of the cleaning head 204, as described below. The cleaning head 204 may include a position sensor circuit 212 that can be configured to determine a first position and / or a second position of the wall 210 and generate a control signal indicating the first or second position of the wall 210. The cleaning head 204 may be in fluid communication with the handle / base portion 202 via a vacuum conduit 203. The cleaning head 204 can be configured to exchange commands, sensor data, and / or power via an electrical interface 201. The electrical interface 201 may include, for example, male / female plugs, electrical contacts, locking pins / holes, etc. In some aspects, the vacuum conduit 203 and / or the electrical interface 201 can removably connect the cleaning head 204 to the handle or base portion 202.

[0097] The handle / base 202 may include a cleaning roller RPM control circuit 214, which may be configured to control a controllable motor circuit 208 (and thus the rotational speed (e.g., RPM) of the cleaning roller 206) based on a control signal generated by the position sensor circuit 212. In some aspects, the rotational speed (e.g., RPM) of the cleaning roller 206 is controlled to have a first rotational speed (e.g., RPM) when the cleaning head 204 moves in the forward direction (e.g., is pushed away from the user, moving in a "forward stroke"). In some aspects, the rotational speed (e.g., RPM) of the cleaning roller 206 is controlled to have a second rotational speed (e.g., RPM) when the cleaning head 204 moves in the reverse direction (e.g., is pulled towards the user, moving in a "reverse stroke"). In some respects, the second rotational speed may be less than the first rotational speed, which can prevent or reduce the removal (e.g., throwing, shifting, kicking) or splashing of dirt and debris from the coverage area of ​​the cleaning head 204 when the cleaning head 204 moves in the reverse direction. For example, the rotational speed of the cleaning roller 206 may be reduced when the cleaning head 204 moves in the reverse direction compared to when the cleaning head 204 moves in the forward direction. By way of non-limiting example, the rotational speed of the cleaning roller 206 in the forward direction may be approximately 1000 RPM, and / or the rotational speed of the cleaning roller 206 in the reverse direction may be approximately 500 RPM (or less). The rotational speed of the cleaning roller 206 may be additionally or alternatively selected based on, for example, the type of surface to be cleaned, the nozzle configuration, etc.

[0098] The handle / base portion 202 may include a controllable vacuum motor circuit 218 configured to generate suction force (e.g., via a motor of the vacuum cleaner system 200). The controllable vacuum motor circuit 218 (and / or the motor) may supply suction force to the cleaning head 204 via a vacuum conduit 203. In some aspects, the handle / base portion 202 may include a vacuum suction force control circuit 216 configured to control the suction force generated by the vacuum motor circuit 218 (e.g., via a motor). The vacuum suction force control circuit 216 may control the generated suction force based on a control signal generated by a position sensor circuit 212. For example, when the cleaning head 204 moves in a forward direction (e.g., is pushed away from the user, moving during a "forward stroke"), the suction force generated by the vacuum motor circuit 218 (e.g., via a motor) is controlled to have a first suction force. For example, when the cleaning head 204 moves in the reverse direction (e.g., is pulled toward the user, moving in a "backward stroke"), the suction force generated by the vacuum motor circuit 218 (e.g., via a motor) is controlled to have a second suction force. In some respects, the second suction force is less than the first suction force, so that the suction force transmitted to the cleaning head 204 is reduced when moving in the reverse direction compared to the forward direction, as indicated by pivot arrow 327. Reducing the suction force when the cleaning head 204 moves in the reverse direction reduces the pulling force required to move the cleaning head 204 across the surface. By way of a non-limiting example, the suction force in the forward direction can be approximately 100% of the available suction force, while the suction force in the reverse direction can be approximately 70% of the maximum suction force.

[0099] Exemplary cleaning head

[0100] Figure 3This is a perspective view of an exemplary cleaning head 304. The cleaning head 304 may be similar to or identical in some or all respects to any cleaning head of the surface cleaner described herein. The cleaning head 304 can be incorporated into any suitable surface cleaner. The cleaning head 304 may include a vacuum interface region 320, which may be configured to receive a handle / base portion (e.g., handle / base portion 202), a body, and / or control components (not shown) associated with a vacuum cleaner system (e.g., vacuum cleaner system 200). The vacuum interface region 320 may form a vacuum conduit 303 for fluid communication between the cleaning head 304 and the handle / base portion (e.g., handle / base 202). The vacuum interface region 320 may include an electrical interface 301 to provide electrical and power connections between the cleaning head 304 and the handle / base portion (e.g., handle / base 202). The cleaning head 304 may include a surface cleaning area 322. Cleaning head 304 (e.g., surface cleaning area 322) may include a body 324 configured to roll across an area to be cleaned (e.g., carpet, floor, etc.). Cleaning head 304 may include one or more rollers 326 (e.g., wheels) to allow cleaning head 304 to move across the floor in both forward and reverse directions (typically indicated by F and R arrows). Cleaning head 304 (e.g., body 324) may include cleaning roller 306 (e.g., controlled cleaning roller 306), also referred to as an agitator or brush roller. Cleaning roller 306 may be at least partially arranged within an opening (e.g., suction inlet) 329 of cleaning head 304 (e.g., body 324). Cleaning roller 306 may be configured to controllably rotate to lift dirt and debris into and / or toward the opening 329.

[0101] The cleaning roller 306 may extend across the width of the body 324. The cleaning roller 306 may include one or more bristle tracks 321 to provide cleaning as the body 324 passes over the surface. Figure 3 In the view, the cleaning roller 306 can be controlled to rotate counterclockwise. The one or more bristle tracks 321 can be formed of, for example, stiff bristles, blades (e.g., rubber blades), or a fuzzy material (e.g., a low-floss material). The cleaning roller 306 can be coupled to a controllable motor circuit (e.g., a controllable vacuum motor circuit 218) to cause controllable rotation of the cleaning roller 306 and / or allow the user to "on" and "off" the roller 306 according to a given cleaning task. In some aspects, the cleaning head 304 (e.g., body 324) may include a roller 332 (e.g., a "leading edge" roller) positioned in front of the cleaning roller 306. As the body 324 moves across the surface to be cleaned, the roller 332 can retain dirt and debris within the coverage area of ​​the body 324.

[0102] The opening 329 (e.g., a suction inlet) may be an elongated opening disposed near the leading edge of the cleaning head 304 (e.g., the body 324), for example, near the roller 332 of the cleaning head 304. The opening 329 may be disposed rearward from the leading edge of the cleaning head 304 (e.g., the body 324) (e.g., toward the one or more rollers 326), for example, disposed behind the roller 332 of the cleaning head 304. The cleaning roller 306 may be disposed at least partially within the opening 329 and / or may extend partially below the opening 329, which allows contact between the cleaning roller 306 and the surface to be cleaned.

[0103] The body 324 may include a reverse cleaning assembly 330 (e.g., a debris scraper assembly, an articulated debris scraper assembly). The reverse cleaning assembly 330 may be positioned behind the cleaning roller 306. The assembly 330 may include a wall (e.g., an articulated wall) 334 as disclosed herein and at least one foot assembly 360 that can pivot in response to the orientation of the cleaning head 304. The wall 334 may extend across the width of the body 324. The wall 334 may be arranged partially or substantially parallel to the cleaning roller 306. The wall 334 may be rotatably coupled to the body 324 at one or both ends. One or more portions of the wall 334 may be formed of, for example, a flexible elastomeric material (e.g., soft plastic, rubber, etc.), stiff bristles, blades (e.g., rubber blades), plush material (e.g., low-pile material), etc. Figure 3 The reverse cleaning assembly 330 is shown in an extended position, such that as the cleaning head 304 moves in a forward direction, the bottom edge of the wall 334 can contact or be at a first distance from the floor. As will be described elsewhere in this disclosure, the reverse cleaning assembly 330 can be configured to switch (e.g., pivot in the forward direction) to a retracted position, such that as the cleaning head 304 moves in a rearward direction, the bottom edge of the wall 334 can be at a second distance from the floor greater than the first distance. The retracted wall 334 can reduce the "accumulation" of debris on the rear edge of the reverse cleaning assembly 330 as the cleaning head 304 moves in the rearward direction. Features of various aspects of the cleaning head 304 and the reverse cleaning assembly 330 are described in more detail herein.

[0104] Figure 3A The cleaning head 304' is shown along Figure 3A partially enlarged perspective sectional view taken along line 3A-3A. The cleaning head 304' may be similar or identical in some or all respects to any cleaning head described herein, such as cleaning head 304. The cleaning head 304' may include a reverse cleaning assembly 330'. The reverse cleaning assembly 330' may be similar or identical in some or all respects to any reverse cleaning assembly described herein, such as reverse cleaning assembly 330. The reverse cleaning assembly 330' may include a wall 334 (e.g., a door, hinged wall, flexible strip, wing, scraper, blade, bristles) that may be coupled to a rotatable head portion 336. The rotatable head portion 336 may pivot within a groove 338 formed in the body 324. The reverse cleaning assembly 330' (e.g., wall 334) may be in a first (expanded) position (e.g., ...). Figure 3A Rotate between the first (shown) and second (retracted) positions (not shown), as roughly indicated by pivot arrow 327.

[0105] In some aspects, the cleaning head 304' may include a Hall effect sensor circuit 340. The Hall effect sensor circuit 340 may be arranged within the body 324 adjacent to the reverse cleaning assembly 330'. The Hall effect sensor circuit 340 may be configured to determine a first position (extended) and a second position (retracted) of the scraper assembly 330' (e.g., wall 334). References below... Figure 3B Details of the reverse cleaning assembly 330' and the Hall effect sensor circuit 340 are described. In other embodiments, the cleaning head of the surface cleaner disclosed herein does not include a Hall effect sensor or any other position sensor capable of sensing whether the wall is extended or retracted.

[0106] Figure 3B A close-up view of the area surrounding the back-cleaning assembly 330' and the Hall effect sensor circuitry 340 is shown for the main body 324. As shown, the rotatable head portion 336 of the back-cleaning assembly 330' may include a hemispherical member 350. The hemispherical member 350 may be removably coupled to the inner housing member 352. The rotatable head portion 336 may be configured to pivot within a groove 338. The wall 334 may include a T-shaped flange portion 335, the dimensions of which are generally set to fit within an annular portion of the inner housing member 352. The inner housing member 352 and / or the wall 334 may be removably coupled to the hemispherical member 350 (using, for example, tabs, interference fits, etc.) to allow the inner housing member 352 and / or the wall 334 to be removed for replacement and / or cleaning of the scraper assembly 330'.

[0107] The cleaning head 304' may include at least one foot assembly 360 (e.g., an actuated foot assembly) that may assist rotation of the reverse cleaning assembly 330' (e.g., a wall 334) when the cleaning head 304' (e.g., a body 324) changes from forward movement to reverse movement. The foot assembly 360 may be coupled to the scraper assembly 330'. At least a portion of the foot assembly 360 may be positioned rearward of the reverse cleaning assembly 330'. The foot assembly 360 may include a first portion 362 (e.g., a first foot, a first member) arranged substantially parallel to the wall 334. The foot assembly 360 may include a second portion 364 (e.g., a second foot, a second member, a curved portion) that may be curved generally toward the rear of the cleaning head 304' (e.g., a body 324). For example, when the reverse cleaning assembly 330' is in a first position, the second portion 364 may be at least partially positioned rearward of the first portion 362. For example, when the reverse cleaning component 330' (e.g., wall 334) is in Figure 3B In the first (e.g., unfolded) position, the lower edges of the first portion 362 and / or the second portion 364 may extend beyond the lower edge of the wall 334. In some aspects, when the cleaning head 304' (e.g., body 324) moves in a rearward direction, the second portion 364 may contact (e.g., engage) the cleaning surface, causing the foot assembly 360 to rotate (e.g., in a forward direction), thereby causing the reverse cleaning assembly 330' (e.g., wall 334) to switch (e.g., rotate with the foot assembly 360) to a second (e.g., retracted) position. Rotating the reverse cleaning assembly 330' (e.g., wall 334) to the second (e.g., retracted) position when the cleaning head 304' moves in a rearward direction may reduce debris buildup along the rearward edge of the wall 334. In some aspects, a plurality of foot assemblies 360 may be included, and the plurality of foot assemblies 360 may be spaced apart from each other along the width of the reverse cleaning assembly 330'.

[0108] In some aspects, the hemispherical member 350 may include a magnetic member 370 disposed thereon (and / or disposed therein). The magnetic member 370 may be generally positioned such that it is magnetically decoupled from the Hall effect sensor circuit 340 when the reverse cleaning assembly 330' is in a first position, and / or magnetically coupled to the Hall effect sensor circuit 340 when the reverse cleaning assembly 330' is in a second position. By way of example, Figure 3B The reverse cleaning assembly 330' is shown in a first (e.g., unfolded) position, in which the magnetic member 370 is decoupled from the Hall effect sensor circuit 340. When the cleaning head 304' moves in the reverse direction (R), the reverse cleaning assembly 330' can pivot to a retracted position (as described above), thereby rotating the magnetic member 370 to magnetically engage with the Hall effect sensor circuit 340.

[0109] The Hall effect sensor circuit 340 can generate a first control signal indicating (or proportional to) a condition such that, for example, when the reverse cleaning assembly 330' rotates away from the Hall effect sensor circuit 340 to a first (e.g., unfolded) position, the magnetic member 370 is decoupled from the Hall effect sensor circuit 340. Figure 3B As shown. The Hall effect sensor circuit 340 can generate a second control signal indicating (or proportional to) a condition such that, for example, when the reverse cleaning assembly 330' rotates to a second (e.g., retracted) position (not shown) causing the magnetic member 370 to rotate to be substantially "facing" the Hall effect sensor circuit 340, the magnetic member 370 is connected to the Hall effect sensor circuit 340.

[0110] The first and second control signals generated by the Hall effect sensor circuit 340 can be transmitted to the cleaning roller RPM control circuit 214 (see...). Figure 2 If the first control signal indicates that the reverse cleaning assembly 330' is in the first (expanded) position, the cleaning roller RPM control circuit 214 can control the controllable motor circuit 208 to rotate the controllable cleaning roller 306 at a first rotational speed (e.g., RPM). This corresponds to the forward movement of the cleaning head 304'. If the second control signal indicates that the reverse cleaning assembly 330' is in the second (retracted) position, the cleaning roller RPM control circuit 214 can control the controllable motor circuit 208 to rotate the controllable cleaning roller 306 at a second rotational speed (e.g., RPM). This corresponds to the rearward movement of the cleaning head 304'. To prevent and / or mitigate the "kick-up" of dirt and debris when the cleaning head 304' moves in the rearward direction, the first RPM can be greater than the second RPM rate.

[0111] In some respects, the first and second control signals generated by the Hall effect sensor circuit 340, attached to (or alternatively to) the controllable cleaning roller 306, can be transmitted to the vacuum suction force control circuit 216 (see...). Figure 2 If the first control signal indicates that the reverse cleaning assembly 330' is in a first (e.g., deployed) position, the vacuum suction control circuit 216 can control the controllable vacuum motor circuit 218 (see...). Figure 2 This causes the controllable vacuum motor circuit 218 (e.g., via a motor in the vacuum cleaner system 200) to generate a first vacuum suction force. This corresponds to the forward movement of the cleaning head 304'. If a second control signal indicates that the reverse cleaning assembly 330' is in a second (e.g., retracted) position, the vacuum suction force control circuit 216 can control the controllable vacuum motor circuit 218 (see...) Figure 2This causes the controllable vacuum motor circuit 218 (e.g., via the motor of the vacuum cleaner system 200) to generate a second vacuum suction force. In some respects, the second suction force may be less than the first suction force. This corresponds to the reverse movement of the cleaning head 304'.

[0112] Figure 3C A cross-sectional view of a cleaning head 304' operating (e.g., moving) in the forward direction is shown. Figure 3D A cross-sectional view of the cleaning head 304' operating (e.g., moving) in the rearward direction is shown. Figure 3C The reverse cleaning component 330' (e.g., wall 334) is shown in a first (e.g., unfolded, downward) position, allowing dirt and debris to be pushed forward along the leading edge of wall 334 (see also...). Figure 1B ).like Figure 3C As shown, when the reverse cleaning assembly 330' is in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, the bottom edge of the wall 334 can be substantially coplanar with the roller 306. Figure 3C As shown, when the reverse cleaning component 330' is in the first (e.g., deployed) position, the bottom edge of the wall 334 is substantially parallel to the surface to be cleaned (e.g., floor). Also as... Figure 3C As shown, when the cleaning head 304' moves in the forward direction, the actuation foot assembly 360 can be in a first (e.g., unfolded) position. Figure 3D A reverse cleaning assembly 330' (e.g., wall 334) in a second (e.g., retracted, folded up, upward) position is shown, thereby preventing dirt and debris from being collected along the trailing edge of wall 334. Figure 3D As shown, when the reverse cleaning assembly 330' is in the second (e.g., retracted) position, the bottom edge of the wall 334 can be "tucked" behind the roller 306. Also... Figure 3D As shown, when the cleaning head 304' moves in the rearward direction, the actuation foot assembly can be in a second (e.g., retracted) position.

[0113] As shown in the figure, the internal structure of the body 324 of the cleaning head 304' includes various slots, channels, and / or chambers to secure and / or accommodate the reverse cleaning assembly 330', cleaning roller 306, Hall effect sensor circuit 340, controllable motor circuit 308', etc., within the body 324. These slots, channels, and / or chambers for securing and / or accommodating components within the body 324 can be modified, for example, according to the dimensions of the selected components, desired tolerances within the body, and between components. Additional details are further described in '384 application, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0114] In some embodiments, the cleaning head of the surface cleaner disclosed herein may incorporate any features of the reverse cleaning assemblies 330, 330' (e.g., wall 334 and / or foot assembly 360), but does not include Hall sensors, magnetic sensors, or any other position sensors with associated circuitry to sense whether the wall is extended or retracted. In other words, in some embodiments, the reverse cleaning assembly of the cleaning head does not include any electronics and operates in a non-powered manner. For example, Figure 4 A cleaning head 403 is shown, which can be combined with Figure 3 and Figures 3A to 3C The cleaning head may include any features other than position sensing features. In some embodiments, the cleaning head 403 may include one or more sensors and sensing circuitry as disclosed herein. Additionally, the reverse cleaning assembly of the cleaning head 403 also includes crenellations behind the hinged walls and foot assembly, details of which are described elsewhere in this disclosure. Figure 4 A cleaning head 403 without a cleaning roller is shown. However, the cleaning head 403 may include a cleaning roller (e.g., cleaning roller 306) or a different cleaning roller in a manner similar to or the same as any cleaning head disclosed herein.

[0115] Exemplary base plate

[0116] Figures 4A to 4O Various views of the base plate 400 are shown. Any cleaning head disclosed herein (e.g., cleaning head 304, 304', 401, 403) may include any or all of the features, aspects, and / or components described with respect to the base plate 400. The base plate 400 may be included in any cleaning head described herein (e.g., cleaning head 304, 304', 401, 403). In some aspects, the base plate 400 may be connected to (e.g., removably connected to) a cleaning head (e.g., cleaning head 304, 304', 401, 403). In some aspects, the base plate 400 may be integrally formed with the cleaning head disclosed herein. The base plate 400 may be connected to and / or arranged on the underside of the cleaning head disclosed herein. In some aspects, the base plate 400 may be partially or substantially arranged within the cleaning head disclosed herein. In some aspects, the bottom surface of the base plate 400 may define the bottom surface of the cleaning head or may be substantially planar with the bottom surface of the cleaning head. One or more portions of the base plate 400 may be arranged behind the suction inlet (e.g., opening 329) and / or roller (e.g., cleaning roller 306) of the cleaning head disclosed herein.

[0117] The cleaning head disclosed herein can move along the surface 422 to be cleaned, together with the base plate 400, in both forward and backward directions (typically by...). Figure 4G and Figure 4M(Indicated by the F and R arrows) moving on both. In some respects, as the cleaning head moves along surface 422, one or more portions of base plate 400 are positioned above surface 422, which may allow air and / or debris to pass under base plate 400.

[0118] Figure 4A A top-view perspective view of the base plate 400 is shown. Figure 4B A bottom perspective view of the base plate 400 is shown, in which the wall 410 (e.g., door, hinged wall, flexible strip, wing, scraper, scraper, bristles) is in a first position (which may also be referred to herein as the “unfolded” and / or “engaged” position). Figure 4C A top view of the base plate 400 is shown. Figure 4D , Figure 4E , Figure 4F , Figure 4G and Figure 4H The bottom view, front view, rear view, side view and perspective view of the base plate 400 are shown respectively, with the wall 410 in a first (e.g., unfolded) position. Figure 4I and Figure 4J A cross-sectional view of the base plate 400 is shown, with the wall 410 in a first (e.g., unfolded) position. Figure 4K , Figure 4L , Figure 4M and Figure 4N The front view, rear view, side view and perspective view of the base plate 400 are shown respectively, with the wall 410 in the second position (which may also be referred to herein as the "retracted", "shrunk" and / or "disengaged" position). Figure 4O A perspective view of the hinged wall of the base plate 400 and the foot assembly 402 is shown. Figure 4P A bottom view is shown of a base plate 400 arranged at (e.g., on and / or at least partially within) a cleaning head 401, which may be similar to or the same as any cleaning head disclosed herein.

[0119] The base plate 400 may include one or more locking mechanisms 406 (e.g., fasteners), hinged walls and foot assemblies 402, multiple protrusions 404 (e.g., crenellations), and / or multiple channels 418 (e.g., air ducts). The base plate 400 may be connected via the one or more locking mechanisms 406 (see...) Figure 4P The locking mechanism 406 is connected to the housing of the cleaning head (e.g., cleaning heads 304, 304', 401, 403). In some aspects, the locking mechanism 406 may be one or more mechanical fasteners, such as... Figure 4BOne or more coin-slot screws, or any other suitable locking mechanism such as a snap-fit ​​connection, may be used. The locking mechanism may extend through a hole in the base plate 400 to engage with the housing of the cleaning head. In some aspects, the one or more locking mechanisms 406 may engage the base plate 400 to the underside of the cleaning head. In some aspects, the base plate 400 may include one, two, three, four, five, six, or more locking mechanisms 406.

[0120] The base plate 400 may include a reverse cleaning assembly. The reverse cleaning assembly may include a hinged wall and foot assembly 402, which may include a wall 410 (as disclosed herein), a first foot 412 (e.g., a first member, a first downward extension), a second foot 414 (e.g., a second member, a second downward extension), a fastener 411 (e.g., a bracket), and / or a hinge 416 (e.g., a flexible hinge, a movable hinge). The first foot 412 and the second foot 414 may include any of the functions of the feet disclosed herein with reference to other figures. The hinged wall and foot assembly 402 may be similar to or identical to the reverse cleaning assemblies 330 and / or 330' in some or all respects. In some respects, one or more components of the hinged wall and foot assembly 402 may be separable from any base plate disclosed herein. For example, the hinged wall and foot assembly 402 may be separable from the base plate 400 and may be individually coupled to the cleaning head disclosed herein.

[0121] The articulated wall and foot assembly 402 may extend across the width of the base plate 400. The articulated wall and foot assembly 402 may be positioned behind the suction inlet (e.g., opening 329) and / or roller (e.g., cleaning roller 306) of the cleaning head (e.g., cleaning head 304, 304'). The articulated wall and foot assembly 402 may be positioned behind the distal edge 408 (e.g., leading edge) of the base plate 400. In some aspects, the articulated wall and foot assembly 402 may be removably attached to the base plate 400 and / or other portions of the cleaning head disclosed herein. The removable articulated wall and foot assembly 402 may allow for replacement and / or repair, and / or improvement of the manufacturability of the cleaning head.

[0122] The hinged wall and foot assembly 402 can switch (e.g., rotate, pivot) between a first (e.g., deployed) position and a second (e.g., retracted, folded) position. In the first (e.g., deployed) position (e.g., as...), Figure 4G In the diagram, wall 410 (e.g., the bottom surface of wall 410) can be positioned at a first distance from the surface 422 to be cleaned, so that as the cleaning head disclosed herein moves, for example, along the surface 422 in a forward direction, wall 410 can push debris on the surface 422 toward the suction inlet (see also...). Figure 1BIn some aspects, when in the first (e.g., deployed) position, wall 410 may contact surface 422. In some aspects, when in the first (e.g., deployed) position, wall 410 may form a seal or at least a partial seal with surface 422. In some aspects, when in the first (e.g., deployed) position, wall 410 may at least partially block and / or suppress airflow from behind the suction inlet to the suction inlet of the cleaning head described herein. This can improve the performance of a vacuum cleaner system (e.g., vacuum cleaner system 200), for example, by increasing the velocity of air flowing into the suction inlet of the vacuum system (e.g., by forcing air through a smaller area), which can increase the amount of debris collected by the vacuum system. Wall 410 in the first position may also increase the velocity of air entering the suction inlet from the front and sides, thereby picking up more debris in front of wall 410.

[0123] In some aspects, when in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, wall 410 (e.g., one or more lateral sides of wall 410) may be substantially perpendicular to surface 422. In some aspects, in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, the bottom surface of wall 410 may be partially or substantially parallel to surface 422. In some aspects, when in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, wall 410 may extend beyond the bottom surface of base plate 400. In some aspects, when in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, wall 410 may be spaced apart from surface 422. In some aspects, when in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, wall 410 may be pushed (e.g., compressed, opened) against surface 422, for example, by base plate 400 and / or cleaning head disclosed herein. In some aspects, when the wall is in a first (e.g., unfolded) position, the distance between the base plate 400 (e.g., the bottom surface of the base plate 400) and the bottom surface of the wall 410 may be greater than the distance between the base plate 400 (e.g., the bottom surface of the base plate 400) and the surface 422, such that when in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, the wall 410 is pushed (e.g., compressed, opened) against the surface 422. In some aspects, the wall 410 may have a height greater than the distance between the top of the wall 410 and the surface 422 (e.g., uncompressed height), such that when the wall 410 is in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, the wall 410 is pushed (e.g., compressed, opened) against the surface 422. For example, when the surface 422 is uneven and / or carpeted, pushing the wall 410 against the surface 422 may allow the wall 410 to more effectively remove debris from the surface 422. When the wall 410 is in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, pushing the wall 410 against the surface 422 can prevent and / or suppress airflow below the wall 410 (e.g., provide a better seal).

[0124] In the second (e.g., collapsed) position (e.g., as Figure 4MAs shown, wall 410 can be positioned at a second distance from surface 422, which is greater than a first distance, so that debris can pass under wall 410 as the cleaning head disclosed herein moves across surface 422. Allowing debris to pass under wall 410 when the cleaning head moves in the reverse direction prevents debris from accumulating on wall 410, for example, on the rearward side of wall 410. Allowing debris to pass under wall 410 allows the suction inlet of the cleaning head described herein to approach debris during the rearward stroke, vacuuming the debris without wall 410 moving the debris away from the suction inlet. In some aspects, when in a second (e.g., retracted) position, wall 410 (e.g., one or more lateral sides of wall 410 and / or the bottom surface of wall 410) can be angled relative to surface 422. In some aspects, when wall 410 is in the second (e.g., retracted) position, the angle between the bottom surface of wall 410 and surface 422 may be greater than the angle when wall 410 is in the first (e.g., unfolded) position. In some aspects, when in the second (e.g., retracted) position, wall 410 may be partially or substantially located within base plate 400 (e.g., a cavity of base plate 400). In some aspects, when in the second (e.g., retracted) position, at least a portion of wall 410 may be located outside base plate 400 (e.g., a cavity of base plate 400).

[0125] The wall 410 can be switched between a first position and / or a second position via a first foot 412 and / or a second foot 414. The first foot 412 and / or the second foot 4141 can have… Figure 3 and Figures 3A to 3D The foot assembly 402 may have any features of the wall and perform the same function. In the illustrated embodiment, the articulated wall and foot assembly 402 may include only two feet, while in other embodiments, the articulated wall and foot assembly 402 may include a different number of feet, as disclosed elsewhere herein. In some aspects, the base plate 400 may include only one of a first foot 412 and a second foot 414. In some aspects, the base plate 400 may include one or more additional feet that may be similar to or identical to the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414. For example, the base plate 400 may include a third foot located near the center of the wall 410. In some aspects, the base plate 400 may include one, two, three, four, five, or more feet 412, 414.

[0126] The first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be coupled (e.g., rotatably coupled) to the wall 410, for example, via a hinged wall and foot assembly 402 (e.g., hinge 416). The first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be positioned rearward of the wall 410. The first foot 412 and the second foot 414 may be positioned adjacent to the opposite end (e.g., lateral side) of the wall 410, the base plate 400, and / or the cleaning head disclosed herein. The first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be angled relative to the wall 410, the base plate 400 (e.g., the top and / or bottom surfaces of the base plate 400), the cleaning head (e.g., the top and / or bottom surfaces of the cleaning head), and / or surface 422. The first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be angled rearward relative to the wall 410. In some aspects, when the articulated wall and foot assembly 402 (e.g., wall 410) is in a first (e.g., extended) position, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be angled rearward relative to the base plate 400 and / or cleaning head disclosed herein. In some aspects, when the articulated wall and foot assembly 402 (e.g., wall 410) is in a second (e.g., retracted) position, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be angled forward relative to the base plate 400 and / or cleaning head disclosed herein.

[0127] In some aspects, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be curved. In some aspects, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may bend away from the wall 410. In some aspects, for example, when the hinged wall and foot assembly 402 (e.g., wall 410) is in a first (e.g., deployed) position, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be bent in a rearward direction. In some aspects, the bottom surfaces of the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be substantially parallel and / or coplanar with the bottom surface of the wall 410. In some aspects, for example, when the hinged wall and foot assembly 402 (e.g., wall 410) is in a first (e.g., deployed) position, the bottom surfaces of the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be substantially parallel and / or coplanar with surface 422. In some aspects, such as when the hinged wall and foot assembly 402 (e.g., wall 410) is in a first (e.g., deployed) position and / or a second (e.g., retracted) position, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 (e.g., the bottom surfaces of the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414) may be positioned closer to surface 422 than the wall 410. In some aspects, the height of the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be greater than the height of the wall 410.

[0128] In some aspects, for example, when the hinged wall and foot assembly 402 (e.g., wall 410) is in a first (e.g., deployed) position and / or a second (e.g., retracted) position, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may contact the surface 422. In some aspects, when the wall is in the first (e.g., deployed) position, the distance between the base plate 400 (e.g., the bottom surface of the base plate 400) and the bottom surface of the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be greater than the distance between the base plate 400 (e.g., the bottom surface of the base plate 400) and the surface 422, such that when the wall 410 is in the first (e.g., deployed) position, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 are pushed (e.g., compressed) against the surface 422. In some respects, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may have a height (e.g., uncompressed height) greater than the distance between the top of the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 and the surface 422, so that when the wall 410 is in a first (e.g., unfolded) position, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 are pushed (e.g., compressed) against the surface 422.

[0129] The first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may have a length and be angled relative to the cleaning head and / or base plate 400 disclosed herein, such that when the cleaning head moves in a forward direction, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 move along (e.g., in contact with) a surface. The first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may have a length and be angled relative to the cleaning head and / or base plate 400 disclosed herein, such that when the cleaning head and / or base plate 400 moves in a rearward direction, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 pivot in a first direction (e.g., forward direction) (e.g., via contact with surface 422). Pivoting the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 in the first direction can, for example, drive (e.g., rotate, pivot) the wall 410 from a first (e.g., unfolded) position to a second (e.g., retracted) position by pivoting the wall 410 away from surface 422 in the first direction. The first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may have a length and be angled relative to the cleaning head and / or base plate 400, such that when the cleaning head and / or base plate 400 changes from moving in a rearward direction to moving in a forward direction, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 pivot in a second direction (e.g., rearward) opposite to the first direction. Pivoting the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 in the second direction can, for example, allow the wall 410 to pivot from a second (e.g., retracted) position to a first (e.g., unfolded) position by allowing the wall 410 to pivot toward the surface 422 in the second direction.

[0130] like Figure 4GAs shown, when the cleaning head disclosed herein moves in the forward direction, the hinged wall and foot assembly 402 (e.g., wall 410) can be switched to and / or held in a first (e.g., unfolded) position. When the base plate 400 moves in the forward direction, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 can be pulled along surface 422 behind wall 410. In some aspects, when the cleaning head moves in the first direction, a rearward force (e.g., friction) can be generated between the bottom surfaces of the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414. The rearward force can cause the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 to rotate (e.g., pivot) in a second (e.g., rearward) direction, which... Figure 4G The orientation in the view can be counterclockwise. The first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 can be mechanically linked (e.g., rotatably coupled) to the wall 410 such that rotating the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 in a second (e.g., rearward) direction causes the wall 410 to rotate (e.g., pivot) in the second (e.g., rearward) direction toward a first (e.g., unfolded) position (e.g., toward surface 422). In some aspects, the wall 410 can be biased toward the first (e.g., unfolded) position, for example, by the weight of the wall 410 and / or the biasing force of the hinge 416.

[0131] like Figure 4M As shown, when the cleaning head moves in the rearward direction, the hinged wall and foot assembly 402 (e.g., wall 410) can be switched to and / or held in a second (e.g., retracted) position. When the cleaning head moves in the rearward direction, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 can contact (e.g., engage) the surface 422, causing the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 to rotate (e.g., pivot) in a first (e.g., forward) direction. Figure 4M The view can be clockwise. As described herein, the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 can be mechanically linked (e.g., rotatably coupled) to the wall 410 such that rotating the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 in a first (e.g., forward) direction causes the wall 410 to rotate (e.g., pivot) toward a second (e.g., retracted) position (e.g., in the forward direction and / or away from the surface 422). As described herein, rotating the wall 410 to the second (e.g., retracted) position increases the distance between the wall 410 and the surface 422, which allows debris to pass under the wall. This can reduce and / or prevent debris buildup on the rearward side of the wall 410 and / or allow the suction inlet of the cleaning head to vacuum debris during the rearward stroke.

[0132] In some aspects, the articulated wall and foot assembly 402 may include one or more support feet 413. For example, when the base plate 400 moves in a forward direction, the one or more support feet 413 may support the wall 410 as it moves (e.g., drags) along the surface 422 in a first (e.g., unfolded) position. For example, the one or more support feet 413 may at least partially suppress deformation of the wall 410 in a rearward direction during forward movement of the base plate 400. The one or more support feet 413 may assist the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 in converting (e.g., rotating, pivoting) the wall from a first (e.g., unfolded) position to a second (e.g., retracted) position. For example, when the base plate 400 moves in a rearward direction to drive the wall 410 toward a second (e.g., retracted) position, the one or more support feet 413 may rotate together with the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 in the first (e.g., forward) direction.

[0133] The one or more support legs 413 may be substantially parallel to the wall 410. For example, when the wall 410 is in a first (e.g., unfolded) position, the one or more support legs 413 may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the surface 422. The one or more support legs 413 may be positioned behind the wall 410. In some aspects, the one or more support legs 413 may be shorter than the wall 410, the first leg 412, and / or the second leg 414. In some or all aspects, the one or more support legs 413 may be similar to or identical to the first leg 412 and / or the second leg 414. The one or more support legs 413 may be positioned adjacent to the first leg 412 and / or the second leg 414. In some aspects, the one or more support legs 413 may be positioned inward toward the center of the wall 410, inside the first leg 412 and the second leg 414. For example, the base plate 400 may include a first support foot 413 positioned adjacent to and / or inside the first foot 412 and / or a second support foot 413 positioned adjacent to and / or inside the second foot 414.

[0134] The wall 410, first foot 412, second foot 414, and / or one or more support feet 413 may be connected to the base plate 400 via a hinge 416. In some aspects, the hinge 416 may be a flexible and / or movable hinge. The hinge 416 enables the wall 410, first foot 412, second foot 414, and / or one or more support feet 413 to rotate relative to the surface 422, base plate 400, and / or cleaning head housing disclosed herein. The hinge 416 enables the wall 410, first foot 412, second foot 414, and / or one or more support feet 413 to rotate between a first position and a second position. In some aspects, the first foot 412, second foot 414, and / or one or more support feet 413 may be integrally formed with the hinge 416. In some aspects, the wall 410 may be connected to the hinge 416 via a fastener 411, such as a bracket.

[0135] One or more portions of the hinged wall and foot assembly 402 (e.g., wall 410) may be formed of, for example, a flexible elastomeric material (e.g., soft plastic, rubber, etc.), bristles, flaps (e.g., rubber flaps), plush material (e.g., low-pile material), Kevlar, etc. In some aspects, wall 410, first foot 412, second foot 414, and / or the one or more support feet 413 may be made at least partially of the same material as the hinge 416 (e.g., an elastomeric material). In some aspects, one or more portions of the base plate 400 may be made of a synthetic polymer, such as a thermoplastic polymer, such as ABS. In some aspects, one or more portions of the hinge 416 may be made of an elastomeric material, such as silicone. This allows the hinge 416 to bend and / or rotate more easily under force, thereby allowing wall 410 to rotate more easily between a first position and a second position. In some aspects, wall 410 may include multiple bristles. The bristles allow the wall 410 to more effectively collect and / or push debris from the surface 422, such as a carpeted surface. Including multiple bristles in the wall 410 also allows the wall 410 to bend more easily due to contact with the surface 422, which can reduce damage to the surface 422 (e.g., scratching). In some aspects, one or more portions of the wall 410 may be made of a synthetic polymer, such as nylon. In some aspects, one or more portions of the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414 may be made of an elastomeric material, such as silicone. This allows the feet 412, 414 to bend (e.g., deform) due to contact with the surface 422, which can prevent damage to the surface (e.g., scratching).

[0136] In some aspects, the hinge 416 may be connected to the base plate 400 via a recess 420 (e.g., a receiving portion). A portion of the hinge 416 (e.g., an end portion) may be sized and / or shaped to fit within the recess 420 of the base plate 400 such that the wall 410, the first foot 412, and / or the second foot 414 may rotate relative to the base plate 400 at the hinge 416. The recess 420 may include a plurality of posts to hold the hinge 416 (e.g., the end portion of the hinge 416) within the recess 420. The posts may prevent and / or inhibit the hinge 416 and / or one or more components connected to the hinge 416 from disengaging from the base plate 400.

[0137] In some aspects, hinge 416 can be flexible. Hinge 416 can be bent to allow wall 410 to move relative to surface 422, for example, to accommodate surface 422 with uneven (e.g., inconsistent) height (e.g., carpet). Hinge 416 can be bent to reduce friction between wall 410 and surface 422, for example, by allowing wall 410 to move upward to reduce the force exerted by wall 410 on surface 422. This can allow wall 410 to be more easily converted (e.g., rotated, pivoted) to a second (e.g., retracted) position and / or prevent wall 410 from damaging (e.g., scratching) surface 422. In some aspects, hinge 416 may include a bent portion (e.g., a recess), such as a "C"-shaped bend, which can make hinge 416 more easily bent (e.g., deformed) under force. In some aspects, hinge 416 may include a forward-facing recess (see, for example, a forward-facing recess). Figure 7F In some aspects, hinge 416 may include a rearward-facing recess (see, for example...). Figure 4J ).

[0138] The reverse cleaning assembly of the base plate 400 may also include a plurality of protrusions 404 (e.g., crenellations). The crenellations may be positioned toward the rear portion of the base plate 400. The plurality of protrusions 404 (e.g., crenellations) may be arranged at least partially behind the hinged wall and foot assembly 402 (e.g., wall 410). In some aspects, the entire protrusion 404 may be arranged behind the wall 410. The protrusions 404 may be positioned near the proximal edge (e.g., rear edge) 409 of the base plate 400. The protrusions 404 may extend at least partially toward the surface 422 as the cleaning head moves along the surface 422. The protrusions 404 may extend from the bottom surface of the base plate 400. The protrusion 404 may extend from the base plate 400 such that when the cleaning head rests on the surface 422, there is a gap between the protrusion 404 and the surface 422, which prevents the protrusion 404 from damaging (e.g., scratching) the surface 422. In some aspects, one or more portions of the protrusion 404 may be made of a synthetic polymer, such as a thermoplastic polymer, such as ABS.

[0139] In some aspects, the shape of the protrusion or crenellation 404 may be polygonal. In some aspects, the shape and / or size of the protrusion 404 may vary. In some aspects, the protrusion 404 may have angled corners and / or edges. In some aspects, the protrusion 404 may have rounded corners and / or edges. In some aspects, the base plate 400 may include seven protrusions 404. In some aspects, the base plate 400 may have any number of protrusions 404, for example, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, and / or fourteen protrusions 404. In some aspects, the protrusions 404 may be configured along the width of the base plate 400. In some aspects, the protrusions 404 may be mirror images across the centerline of the base plate 400. For example, a protrusion 404 on one lateral side (e.g., half) of the base plate 400 may be mirror images of a protrusion 404 on the opposite lateral side (e.g., half) of the base plate 400. In some aspects, the protrusion 404 may include one or more angled surfaces. In some aspects, the protrusion or crenellation 404 may be angled relative to the lateral side of the base plate 400. In some aspects, the protrusion 404 may be angled at least partially toward the suction inlet of the cleaning head described herein. In some aspects, the protrusion 404 may be angled at least partially toward the center of the base plate 400. When the cleaning head is in the reverse stroke and the wall is in the retracted position (see, for example...), Figure 5D The configuration and / or angle of the width of the protrusion or crenellation across the base plate can prevent debris from splashing or spraying out of the cleaning head.

[0140] Multiple channels 418 (e.g., air ducts) may be configured between and / or at least partially defined by the multiple protrusions 404. When the cleaning head is in the reverse stroke and the wall is in the retracted position (see, for example...), Figure 5C Debris can pass through channel 418. For example, when the cleaning head moves in a rearward direction, channel 418 can also guide airflow toward the suction inlet of the cleaning head disclosed herein. Air can be drawn from the surrounding environment (e.g., via the vacuum cleaner system disclosed herein) through channel 418 toward the suction inlet of the cleaning head disclosed herein. The shape and / or angle of channel 418 can determine the path followed by air as it flows toward the suction inlet of the base plate 400 disclosed herein. In some aspects, channel 418 may not be parallel to the base plate 400 and / or the cleaning head in the forward-rearward direction. In some aspects, channel 418 may be at least partially angled toward the center of the cleaning head disclosed herein, such that airflow and / or debris are guided toward the center of the cleaning head. In some aspects, channel 418 may be at least partially angled toward the suction inlet disclosed herein, such that airflow and / or debris are guided toward the suction inlet.

[0141] The protrusion 404 can guide airflow through the channel 418 to the suction inlet of the cleaning head disclosed herein. Guiding airflow through the channel 418 can increase the velocity of the airflow to the suction inlet by forcing air through a narrower area (e.g., a duct), as shown in the reference. Figure 8A and Figure 8B Furthermore, this can increase the amount of debris collected. The narrower channel 418 can also increase air velocity in other directions (e.g., front and sides) around the suction inlet, which can improve the ability to pick up debris around the suction inlet. In some embodiments, debris slightly outside the coverage area of ​​the cleaning head can be moved towards the suction inlet by the increased air velocity. Therefore, when the cleaning head is in reverse stroke, channel 418 can improve edge cleaning, debris removal from behind the cleaning head, and overall cleaning.

[0142] In some respects, the multiple locking mechanisms 406 may be spaced apart from each other among the multiple channels 418. Positioning the locking mechanisms 406 within the channels 418 can reduce the coverage area of ​​the locking mechanisms 406 and / or the base plate 400 as a whole. In some respects, the locking mechanisms 406 may be substantially flush with the surface of the channels 418 to prevent and / or limit the locking mechanisms 406 from obstructing airflow through the channels 418.

[0143] Figure 5A A schematic top view of a protrusion 404 of the base plate 400 is shown. The protrusion 404 (e.g., the inward-facing surface of the protrusion 404) may form an angle Φ1 with respect to the wall 410, the distal edge 408 of the base plate 400, and / or the leading edge of the cleaning head disclosed herein. The channel 418 may be oriented at an angle Φ1 relative to the wall 410, the distal edge 408 of the base plate 400, and / or the leading edge of the cleaning head disclosed herein. In some aspects, the angle Φ1 may be approximately 30 degrees. The angle Φ1 may be between 85 degrees and 0 degrees, for example, between 75 degrees and 5 degrees, between 65 degrees and 10 degrees, between 55 degrees and 15 degrees, between 45 degrees and 20 degrees, or between 35 degrees and 25 degrees, or any of these values ​​or ranges, or any value or range defined by any of these values ​​or ranges.

[0144] Figure 5B A front view of a protrusion 404 of the base plate 400 is shown. (E.g., when viewed from the front and / or rear) At least one or more protrusions or crenellations 404 may at least partially overlap with adjacent protrusions or crenellations 404. In some embodiments, more than half of a crenellation overlaps with an adjacent crenellation. This overlap of crenellations can suppress the ejection of debris in a rearward direction from the cleaning head disclosed herein, for example, due to the rotation of the cleaning head's rollers (e.g., cleaning roller 306). Making at least some of the protrusions 404 overlap makes it more difficult for debris to be ejected between the protrusions 404.

[0145] like Figure 5C As shown, channel 418 allows debris 40 to pass through, enabling debris 40 to move from the rear of the cleaning head disclosed herein toward the suction inlet of the cleaning head. Figure 5D As shown, when the wall 410 is in the second (e.g., retracted) position, orienting the channel 418 at an angle Φ1 (e.g., approximately 30 degrees) and / or having partially overlapping protrusions 404 can prevent and / or inhibit debris 40 from being ejected from the cleaning head disclosed herein in a rearward direction (e.g., by rotating the cleaning roller 306). In some aspects, such as when debris is ejected in a direction not partially or substantially aligned with the angle Φ1 of the channel 418, the protrusions 404 can substantially inhibit debris from being ejected through the channel 418 in a rearward direction.

[0146] In some embodiments, the protrusion may be located on the base plate 400 or any other base plate that can be removably attached to the housing of the cleaning head as disclosed herein. In other embodiments, the base plate may be integrally formed with the cleaning head. The protrusion may be part of the base plate integrally formed with the cleaning head. In this embodiment, the wall and foot assemblies disclosed herein may be separate components removably attached to the cleaning head. In embodiments where the base plate is removable from the cleaning head, a crenellation may be formed on the base plate. The base plate may be permanently or removably attached to the hinged wall and foot assemblies. In embodiments where the base plate is integrally formed with the cleaning head, the crenellation may be integrally formed on a non-removable portion of the base plate of the cleaning head. In those embodiments, the hinged wall and foot assemblies may be removably attached to the cleaning head.

[0147] Figure 6AA top view of a portion of a base plate 600 having multiple protrusions 601 (e.g., crenellations) is shown. The base plate 600 may be similar to or identical to any base plate described herein, such as base plate 400. The base plate 600 may include multiple protrusions 601, which may be similar to or identical to any protrusion described herein, such as protrusion 404. The base plate 600 may include multiple channels 602 (e.g., air ducts), which may be similar to or identical to any channel described herein, such as channel 418. Protrusions 601 may be thinner than protrusions 404. Protrusions 601 may be shaped such that channels 602 are non-linear and / or include variations along at least one direction. This can reduce the amount of debris that can be ejected from the cleaning head disclosed herein. Protrusions 601 may be shaped such that channels 602 include one or more angled portions. For example, channels 602 may include one or more bends of approximately 90 degrees (e.g., turns). This can prevent and / or inhibit debris from being ejected from the cleaning head disclosed herein. In some aspects, the first portion of the protrusion 604 may be substantially parallel to the leading edge of the base plate 600, and the second portion 601 of the protrusion 604 may be substantially perpendicular to the leading edge of the base plate 600, such that the two portions of the protrusion 601 form an angle of approximately 90 degrees. In some aspects, the protrusion 404 may be zigzag and / or serpentine.

[0148] Figure 6B A top view of a base plate 610 having a plurality of protrusions 611 (e.g., crenellations) is shown. The base plate 610 may be similar to or identical to any base plate described herein, such as base plate 400. The base plate 610 may include a plurality of protrusions 611, which may be similar to or identical to any protrusion described herein, such as protrusion 404. The base plate 610 may include a plurality of channels 612 (e.g., air ducts), which may be similar to or identical to any channel described herein, such as channel 418. In some aspects, one or more of the protrusions 611 may include a quadrilateral shape. In some aspects, the base plate 610 does not include a locking mechanism (e.g., locking mechanism 406) within the channels 612, which may prevent debris from being trapped within the locking mechanism. In some aspects, the sides (e.g., lateral sides) of one or more of the channels 612 may be substantially parallel.

[0149] Figure 6CA perspective view of a base plate 620 having a plurality of protrusions 621 (e.g., crenellations) is shown. The base plate 620 may be similar to or identical to any base plate described herein, such as base plate 400. Except for the number of feet 624, the material of the walls 623, and / or the shape of the protrusions or crenellations 621, the base plate 620 may have the same features as base plate 400. The base plate 620 may include a plurality of protrusions 621, which may be similar to or identical to any protrusion described herein, such as protrusion 404. The base plate 620 may include a plurality of channels 622 (e.g., air ducts), which may be similar to or identical to any channel described herein, such as channel 418. The base plate 620 may include walls 623, which may be similar to or identical to any wall described herein, such as wall 410. (For example, when wall 623 is in the first deployed position) Wall 623 may at least partially block (e.g., cover) passage 622, thereby preventing and / or inhibiting airflow through the passage, for example, during forward movement of base plate 620. In some aspects, wall 623 may be made of a synthetic polymer, such as a thermoplastic polymer, such as ABS. Base plate 620 may include one or more feet 624, which may be similar to or identical to any feet described herein, such as first foot 412 and / or second foot 414. Base plate 620 may include a plurality of feet 624, for example, four feet 624. Feet 624 may be evenly spaced along the width of wall 623. Feet 624 may be positioned behind wall 623.

[0150] Figure 6D A top view of a base plate 630 having multiple protrusions 631 (e.g., crenellations) is shown. The base plate 630 may be similar to or identical to any base plate described herein, such as base plate 400. The base plate 630 may include multiple protrusions 631, which may be similar to or identical to any protrusion described herein, such as protrusion 404. The base plate 630 may include multiple channels 632 (e.g., air ducts), which may be similar to or identical to any channel described herein, such as channel 418. In some aspects, the protrusions 631 may be generally trapezoidal in shape. In some aspects, the protrusions 631 may be arranged in the rear half of the base plate 630, which may provide space for a back-cleaning assembly, such as back-cleaning assembly 402.

[0151] Figure 6EA top view of a base plate 640 having a plurality of protrusions 641 (e.g., crenellations) is shown. The base plate 640 may be similar to or identical to any base plate described herein, such as base plate 400. The base plate 640 may include a plurality of protrusions 641, which may be similar to or identical to any protrusion described herein, such as protrusion 404. The base plate 640 may include a plurality of channels 642 (e.g., air ducts), which may be similar to or identical to any channel described herein, such as channel 418. The base plate 640 may include a plurality of protrusions 643. Protrusions 643 may be smaller than protrusions 641. Protrusions 643 may be at least partially arranged between and / or in line with the plurality of channels 642. Protrusions 643 may be arranged between protrusions 641. Protrusions 643 may allow airflow and / or debris to flow around the protrusions 643 into the cleaning head disclosed herein. The protrusion 643 can, for example, prevent and / or inhibit debris from being ejected from the cleaning head disclosed herein by physically blocking a portion of the debris.

[0152] Figure 7A A cross-sectional view of a reverse cleaning assembly 700 is shown. The reverse cleaning assembly 700 may be included in any cleaning head and / or base plate disclosed herein, such as cleaning head 304 and / or base plate 400. The reverse cleaning assembly 700 may be similar to or identical to any reverse cleaning assembly described herein, such as reverse cleaning assemblies 330, 330', 402 (e.g., as indicated by similar components having the same reference numerals). The reverse cleaning assembly 700 may include one or more feet 701, which may be similar to or identical to any feet described herein, such as first foot 412 and / or second foot 414. The one or more feet 701 may be partially or substantially linear. The one or more feet 701 may be integrally formed with a hinge 416. The one or more feet 701 may be made of the same material as the hinge 416, such as an elastomeric material, such as silicone. This allows the one or more feet 701 to bend (e.g., deform) due to contact with a surface, which can prevent damage to the surface (e.g., scratching).

[0153] Figure 7BA cross-sectional view of a reverse cleaning assembly 710 is shown. The reverse cleaning assembly 710 may be included in any cleaning head and / or base plate disclosed herein, such as cleaning head 304 and / or base plate 400. The reverse cleaning assembly 710 may be similar to or identical to any reverse cleaning assembly described herein, such as reverse cleaning assemblies 330, 330', 402 (e.g., as indicated by similar components having the same reference numerals). The reverse cleaning assembly 710 may include one or more feet 711, which may be similar to or identical to any feet described herein, such as first foot 412 and / or second foot 414. In some aspects, the one or more feet 711 may include a body 713 and a cover 714. The cover 714 may at least partially cover a portion of the one or more feet 711, such as the body 713, to reduce friction between the one or more feet 711 and the surface to be cleaned. The body 713 may include a first material (e.g., an elastomer material, such as silicone) that allows the body 713 (and the one or more feet 711) to bend (e.g., deform) under force. The cover 714 may include a second material (e.g., a fabric material) different from the first material. In some aspects, the second material has a lower coefficient of friction than the first material, which can reduce friction between the one or more feet 711 and the surface to be cleaned. This can reduce damage (e.g., degradation) to the surface to be cleaned and / or the one or more feet 711 over time. In some aspects, the cover 714 may cover the bottom, front, and / or rear sides of the one or more feet 711 (e.g., the body 713).

[0154] Figure 7CA perspective view of a reverse cleaning assembly 720 is shown. The reverse cleaning assembly 720 may be included in any cleaning head and / or base plate disclosed herein, such as cleaning head 304 and / or base plate 400. The reverse cleaning assembly 720 may be similar to or identical to any reverse cleaning assembly described herein, such as reverse cleaning assemblies 330, 330', 402 (e.g., as indicated by similar components having the same reference numerals). The reverse cleaning assembly 720 may include one or more feet 721, which may be similar to or identical to any feet described herein, such as first foot 412 and / or second foot 414. In some aspects, the cover 714 may at least partially cover only the front and / or rear sides of the one or more feet 721, such that at least a portion of the body 713 may contact the surface to be cleaned during movement of the cleaning head disclosed herein. Allowing the body 713 to contact the surface to be cleaned may result in higher friction between the one or more feet 721 and the surface (e.g., due to the first material having a higher coefficient of friction than the second material). As the cleaning head disclosed herein moves in a rearward direction, this allows the one or more feet 721 to rotate more easily, thereby allowing the wall disclosed herein to transition from a first position to a second position. For example, when the one or more feet 721 can at least partially sink into a carpeted surface, including a cover 714 on the front and / or rear sides of the one or more feet 721 can reduce the friction between the one or more feet 721 and the carpeted surface.

[0155] Figure 7D A cross-sectional view of a reverse cleaning assembly 730 is shown. The reverse cleaning assembly 730 may be included in any cleaning head and / or base plate disclosed herein, such as cleaning head 304 and / or base plate 400. The reverse cleaning assembly 730 may be similar to or identical to any reverse cleaning assembly described herein, such as reverse cleaning assemblies 330, 330', 402 (e.g., as indicated by similar components having the same reference numerals). The reverse cleaning assembly 730 may include one or more feet 731, which may be similar to or identical to any feet described herein, such as first foot 412 and / or second foot 414. The reverse cleaning assembly 730 may include one or more support feet 733, which may be similar to or identical to any support feet described herein, such as support foot 413. The one or more support feet 733 may include a body 715 and / or a cover 716, which may be similar to or identical to the body 713 and cover 714, respectively. In some aspects, the one or more feet 731 may be curved. In some respects, such as when the reverse cleaning component 730 is in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, the one or more feet 731 can be bent in the rearward direction.

[0156] Figure 7EA cross-sectional view of the reverse cleaning assembly 740 is shown. The reverse cleaning assembly 740 may be included in any cleaning head and / or base plate disclosed herein, such as cleaning head 304 and / or base plate 400. The reverse cleaning assembly 740 may be similar to or identical to any reverse cleaning assembly described herein, such as reverse cleaning assemblies 330, 330', 402 (e.g., as indicated by similar components having the same reference numerals). As disclosed elsewhere in this disclosure, the hinge 416 may include a rearward-facing recess.

[0157] Figure 7F A cross-sectional view of the back cleaning assembly 750 is shown. The back cleaning assembly 750 may be included in any cleaning head and / or base plate disclosed herein, such as cleaning head 304 and / or base plate 400. The back cleaning assembly 750 may be similar to or the same as any back cleaning assembly described herein, such as back cleaning assemblies 330, 330', 402 (e.g., as indicated by similar parts having the same reference numerals). The dimensions of the wall 410 may be set such that when the cleaning assembly 750 (e.g., wall 410) is in a first position, the wall 410 (e.g., in an undeformed and / or compressed state) and / or one or more bristles of the wall 410 extend beyond the surface 422 by a distance d1. This allows the wall 410 and / or one or more bristles of the wall 410 to contact the surface 422 (e.g., collect debris from the surface 422, agitate debris on the surface 422) even when the surface 422 is uneven and / or carpeted. In some respects, the distance d1 may be approximately 1 mm. In some aspects, the distance d1 can be between 2 mm and 0 mm, for example between 1.75 mm and 0.25 mm, between 1.5 mm and 0.5 mm, or between 1.25 mm and 0.75 mm, or any of these values ​​or ranges, or any value or range defined by any of these values ​​or ranges. It should be noted that, in the context of the bottom edge of wall 410 being a first distance from surface 422 when wall 410 is in the first position, where the first distance is less than the second distance from surface 422 when wall 410 is in the second (retracted) position, as disclosed elsewhere in this disclosure, in these embodiments, distance d1 will be a negative value (below the surface), while the second distance will be a positive value because the wall will be above the surface. In other words, the bottom edge of wall 410 is closer to the surface in the first position than in the second position, so that debris cannot pass through wall 410 in the first position but can pass under wall 410 in the second position.

[0158] The reverse cleaning assembly 730 may include one or more feet 751, which may be similar to or identical to any feet described herein, such as first foot 412 and / or second foot 414. When the cleaning head disclosed herein moves along surface 422 and / or the reverse cleaning assembly 750 (e.g., wall 410) is in a first (e.g., unfolded) position, the one or more feet 751 may form an angle with surface 422. This can reduce the friction between the one or more feet 751 and surface 422, and prevent the reverse cleaning assembly 750 (e.g., wall 410) from rotating (e.g., pivoting) in the rearward direction when the cleaning head disclosed herein moves in the forward direction. The one or more feet 751 may be sized such that when the cleaning assembly 750 (e.g., wall 410) is in the first position, the one or more feet 751 (e.g., in an undeformed and / or compressed state) extend beyond surface 422 by a distance d2. Even when surface 422 is uneven and / or carpeted, this allows one or more feet 751 to contact surface 422 (e.g., generate friction with surface 422). In some aspects, distance d2 can be approximately 1 mm. In some aspects, distance d2 can be between 2 mm and 0 mm, for example between 1.75 mm and 0.25 mm, between 1.5 mm and 0.5 mm, or between 1.25 mm and 0.75 mm, or any of these values ​​or ranges or any value or range defined by any of these values ​​or ranges. In some aspects, distance d2 can be similar to or the same as distance d1.

[0159] The reverse cleaning assembly 730 may include one or more support feet 753, which may be similar to or identical to any support foot described herein, such as support foot 413. The dimensions of the one or more support feet 753 may be configured such that when the cleaning assembly 750 (e.g., wall 410) is in a first position, the one or more support feet 753 (e.g., in an undeformed and / or compressed state) extend beyond the surface 422 by a distance d3. This allows the one or more support feet 753 to contact the surface 422 (e.g., generate friction with the surface 422) even when the surface 422 is uneven and / or carpeted. In some aspects, the distance d3 may be approximately 0.5 mm. In some aspects, the distance d3 may be between 1 mm and 0 mm, for example between 0.8 mm and 0.2 mm, or between 0.6 mm and 0.4 mm, or any of these values ​​or ranges, or any value or range defined by any of these values ​​or ranges. In some aspects, the distance d3 may be less than distance d2 and / or distance d1.

[0160] The reverse cleaning assembly 730 may include a hinge 752, which may be similar to or identical to any hinge described herein, such as hinge 416. As disclosed elsewhere in this disclosure, hinge 416 may include a forward-facing recess (e.g., towards the front of any cleaning head and / or base plate disclosed herein), which may facilitate (e.g., deformation of hinge 416 when the cleaning head disclosed herein moves in the forward direction). This may reduce friction between surface 422 and the reverse cleaning assembly 730 (e.g., wall 410, the one or more feet 751 and / or the one or more support feet 753) when the cleaning head disclosed herein moves in the forward direction, which may reduce damage (e.g., degradation) of surface 422 and / or the reverse cleaning assembly 730 (e.g., wall 410, the one or more feet 751 and / or the one or more support feet 753) over time.

[0161] Figure 8A An airflow 850 is shown entering a cleaning head 801, which has no protrusions (e.g., crenellations) disclosed herein. Figure 8B An airflow 850 into a cleaning head 802 is shown, the cleaning head 802 including a plurality of protrusions 804. Cleaning heads 801 and 802 may be similar to or identical to any cleaning head disclosed herein, such as cleaning head 304. Protrusions 804 may be similar to or identical to any protrusion described herein, such as protrusion 404. Cleaning head 802 may include a plurality of channels 818 (e.g., air ducts) disposed between the protrusions 804, these channels may be similar to or identical to any channel disclosed herein, such as channel 418. Channels 818 may guide the airflow 850 toward a suction inlet of cleaning head 802. Figure 8B As shown, the velocity of the airflow 850 can be increased when guided through channel 818, which can increase the amount and / or percentage of debris collected from the surface to be cleaned. This increased velocity is due to the Venturi effect. The Venturi effect occurs when fluid flows through narrow or constricted sections of the tube, resulting in increased velocity and decreased pressure. According to the Venturi effect, the fluid velocity must be increased when flowing through narrower areas to maintain a constant flow rate. Therefore, the velocity of the airflow 850 entering the cleaning head 802 can be increased when guided through the narrower area defined by channel 818.

[0162] Figure 9A perspective view of base plate 900 is shown. Base plate 900 may be similar to or identical to any base plate disclosed herein, such as base plate 400 (e.g., as indicated by similar components having the same reference numerals). In some aspects, the hinged wall and foot assembly 402 may include a third foot 915, which may be similar to or identical to any foot described herein, such as first foot 412 and / or second foot 414. The third foot 915 may be positioned close to the center of wall 410 and / or base plate 900. The third foot 915 may be equally spaced between the first foot 412 and the second foot 414. The third foot 915 may allow the reverse cleaning assembly 402 (e.g., wall 410) to be more easily and / or uniformly converted (e.g., rotated, pivoted) from a first (e.g., unfolded) position to a second (e.g., retracted) position. The third foot 915 may provide additional support for wall 410 to prevent and / or inhibit deformation of wall 410 (e.g., the central portion of wall 410).

[0163] The base plate 900 may include a plurality of protrusions 904 (e.g., crenellations) that may be similar to or identical to any of the protrusions described herein, such as protrusion 404. One or more of the protrusions 904 may be circular. The shape of one or more of the protrusions 904 may be partially or substantially spherical and / or hemispherical, which may reduce the amount of debris (e.g., hair, fabric) trapped on the protrusions 904 and / or within the channels 918. The base plate 900 may include a plurality of channels 918 (e.g., air ducts) arranged between and / or at least partially defined by the plurality of protrusions 904. For example, when the cleaning head (e.g., base plate 400) moves in a rearward direction such that the wall 410 moves to a second (e.g., retracted) position, the channels 918 may direct airflow toward the suction inlet of the cleaning head disclosed herein. The channels 918 may be similar to or identical to any of the channels described herein, such as channel 418.

[0164] Figures 10A to 10D Various views of the base plate 1000 are shown. Any cleaning head disclosed herein (e.g., cleaning head 304, 304', 401) may include any or all of the features, aspects, and / or components described with reference to the base plate 1000. The base plate 1000 may be included in any cleaning head described herein (e.g., cleaning head 304, 304', 401). The base plate 1000 may be connected to any cleaning head disclosed herein. Figure 10A A three-dimensional view of the base plate 1000 is shown. Figure 10B A bottom view of the base plate 1000 is shown. Figure 10C A side view of the base plate 1000 is shown, in which the wall 1010 (e.g., hinged wall, flexible strip, wing, scraper, blade, bristles) is in a first (e.g., deployed) position. Figure 10DA side view of the base plate 1000 is shown, with the wall in a second (e.g., retracted) position.

[0165] The base plate 1000 may include a wall 1010, a plurality of protrusions 1004 (e.g., crenellations), a plurality of channels 1018 (e.g., air ducts), a hinge 1016, a first foot 1012, a second foot 1014, and / or a third foot 1015. Except that the crenellations 1004 are located on one side of the wall 1010, such that the front surface of the wall 1010 has a continuous plane, and the rear surface of the wall 1010 includes the crenellations 1004, the wall 1010 may be similar to or identical to any wall described herein, such as wall 410. In some aspects, the wall 1010 may switch between a first (e.g., unfolded) position and a second (e.g., retracted, folded) position in a manner similar to or identical to any wall described herein, such as wall 410 (e.g., rotated, pivoted). In the first (e.g., unfolded) position (e.g., as...), Figure 10C As shown), wall 1010 (e.g., the bottom surface of wall 1010) can be positioned at a first distance from the surface 422 to be cleaned, so that as the base plate 1000 moves along surface 422, for example in a forward direction, the continuous plane of wall 1010 can collect (e.g., move) debris on surface 422. In some aspects, when in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, wall 1010 can at least partially block and / or inhibit airflow to the suction inlet of the cleaning head described herein, for example, by preventing and / or inhibiting airflow through wall 1010 and / or between wall 1010 and surface 422 to the suction inlet. In the second (e.g., retracted) position (e.g., as shown), Figure 10D As shown, the wall 1010 can be positioned at a second distance from the surface 422, which is greater than the first distance, so that as the base plate 1000 moves across the surface 422, debris can pass through the channel defined by the crenellation 1004.

[0166] In some aspects, when in a first (e.g., unfolded) position, wall 1010 (e.g., one or more lateral sides of wall 1010) may be angled relative to surface 422 and / or base plate 1000 (e.g., the top and / or bottom surfaces of base plate 1000) at a first angle. In some aspects, when in a second (e.g., retracted) position, wall 1010 (e.g., one or more lateral sides of wall 1010) may be angled relative to surface 422 and / or base plate 1000 (e.g., the top and / or bottom surfaces of base plate 1000) at a second angle, which is smaller than the first angle. In some aspects, in the first (e.g., unfolded) position, the bottom surface of wall 1010 (e.g., leading edge 1008) may be partially or substantially parallel to surface 422. In some aspects, in the second (e.g., retracted) position, the bottom surface of wall 1010 (e.g., leading edge 1008) may be angled relative to surface 422.

[0167] The wall 1010 can be configured to switch between a first (e.g., unfolded) position and a second (e.g., retracted) position according to the direction in which the base plate 1000 moves along the surface 422. For example, when the base plate 1000 moves along the surface in the forward direction (e.g.) Figure 10C As the base plate 1000 moves (approximately indicated by the F arrow), the wall 1010 can be switched to and / or remain in a first (e.g., unfolded) position, so that when the base plate 1000 moves in the forward direction, the wall 1010 can collect debris from the surface 422. When the base plate 1000 moves along the surface 422 in the rearward direction (e.g., as indicated by the F arrow), the wall 1010 can be switched to and / or remain in a first (e.g., unfolded) position, so that when the base plate 1000 moves in the forward direction, the wall 1010 can collect debris from the surface 422. Figure 10D As the wall 1010 moves (approximately indicated by the R arrow in the diagram), it can be switched to and / or remain in a second (e.g., retracted) position.

[0168] Wall 1010 can be switched between a first position and / or a second position via a first foot 1012, a second foot 1014, and / or a third foot 1015. The first foot 1012, the second foot 1014, and / or the third foot 1015 can be similar to or identical to any foot described herein, such as the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414. The first foot 1012, the second foot 1014, and / or the third foot 1015 can be coupled (e.g., rotatably coupled) to wall 1010 such that rotation of the first foot 1012, the second foot 1014, and / or the third foot 1015 causes rotation of wall 1010. The first foot 1012, the second foot 1014, and / or the third foot 1015 can be positioned rearward of the center of wall 1010. When the wall 1010 is in a first (e.g., unfolded) position, for example when the base plate 1000 moves in the forward direction, the first foot 1012, the second foot 1014, and / or the third foot 1015 may be angled backward. When the wall 1010 is in a second (e.g., retracted) position, for example when the base plate 1000 moves in the rearward direction, the first foot 1012, the second foot 1014, and / or the third foot 1015 may be angled forward.

[0169] The wall 1010 can be switched between a first position and a second position (e.g., rotated, pivoted) by means of the first foot 1012, the second foot 1014, and / or the third foot 1015 in a manner similar to or the same as how the wall 410 is rotated between a first position and a second position by means of the first foot 412 and / or the second foot 414. For example, when the base plate 1000 moves in a rearward direction to drive (e.g., rotated, pivoted) the wall 1010 away from the surface 422 to a second (e.g., retracted) position, the first foot 1012, the second foot 1014, and / or the third foot 1015 can pivot in a first direction (e.g., forward direction) (e.g., via contact with the surface 422). For example, when the base plate 1000 moves in the forward direction to drive (e.g., rotate, pivot) the wall 1010 toward the surface 422 to a first (e.g., unfolded) position, the first foot 1012, the second foot 1014, and / or the third foot 1015 may pivot in a second direction (e.g., rearward) (e.g., via contact with the surface 422).

[0170] The protrusion 1004 may be similar to or identical to any protrusion described herein, such as protrusion 404, in shape, size, and / or orientation. A channel 1018 (e.g., an air duct) may be arranged among and / or at least partially defined by the protrusions 1004, and may be similar to or identical to any channel disclosed herein, such as channel 418. One or more of the protrusions 1004 may include a recess 1019 (e.g., a release area) that reduces the force required to move the base plate 1000 and / or cleaning head disclosed herein along a surface (e.g., a carpet). In some aspects, a first foot 1012, a second foot 1014, and / or a third foot 1015 may be configured on a separate protrusion 1004, for example, at least partially configured within a recess 1019 of the protrusion 1004.

[0171] In some aspects, the protrusion 1004 may be coupled to the wall 1010 such that the protrusion rotates with the wall 1010 when the wall 1010 changes between a first position and a second position. In some aspects, the protrusion 1004 and / or the wall 1010 may rotate (e.g., pivot) relative to the base plate 1000 and / or the cleaning head disclosed herein via a hinge 1016 (e.g., a flexible hinge, a movable hinge), which may be similar to or identical to any hinge described herein, such as hinge 416. When the wall 1010 is in a first (e.g., extended) position (e.g., during forward movement of the base plate 1000), the protrusion 404 may face away from debris in front of the cleaning head. When the wall 1010 is in a second (e.g., retracted) position (e.g., during rearward movement of the base plate 1000), the protrusion 404 may face towards debris behind the cleaning head. The protrusion 1004 not only allows debris to pass through toward the suction inlet, but also increases the velocity of the airflow entering the cleaning head (e.g., by reducing the area through which air can travel), which can increase the amount of debris collected by the cleaning head from the surface 422, as disclosed herein.

[0172] Figure 11A A perspective view of a cleaning head 1101 including a base plate 1100 is shown. Figure 11B A perspective view of the base plate 1100 is shown. The cleaning head 1101 may be similar to or identical to any cleaning head described herein, such as cleaning heads 304, 304' (e.g., as indicated by similar components having the same reference numerals). Figure 11AAs shown, a base plate 1100 may be included in (e.g., at least partially disposed within) a cleaning head 1101. The base plate 1100 may be configured behind rollers 332 (e.g., “leading edge” rollers), openings 329 (e.g., suction inlets), and / or cleaning rollers 306. The base plate 1100 may be positioned in front of one or more rollers 326 (e.g., wheels). In some aspects, the base plate 1100 may be removably attached to the cleaning head 1101 to allow for replacement and / or repair of the base plate 1100.

[0173] like Figure 11B As shown, the base plate 1100 may include a wall 1110 (e.g., a door, hinged wall, flexible strip, wing, scraper, scraper blade, bristles), feet 1112, hinges 1116, and a plurality of winglets 1130. The wall 1110 may be similar to or identical to any wall described herein, such as wall 410. The wall 1110 can be switched (e.g., rotated, pivoted) between a second (e.g., retracted) position and a first (e.g., extended) position (not shown) by the feet 1112. The feet 1112 may be similar to or identical to any feet described herein, such as first foot 412 and / or second foot 414. The feet 1112 may switch the wall 1110 between the first and second positions in a manner similar to or identical to how the wall 410 rotates between the first and second positions by the first foot 412 and / or second foot 414. In some aspects, the base plate 1100 may include more than one foot 1112. The vane 1130 may be coupled to or integrally formed with the rear surface of the wall 1110, such that the vane 1130 moves (e.g., rotates, pivots) as the wall 1110 transitions between a first position and a second position. When the wall 1110 is in the first position, as the cleaning head is in its forward stroke, the continuous front surface of the wall 1110 may push debris toward the suction inlet, as disclosed herein. Figure 11B The base plate 1100 is shown, with the wall 1110 in a second (e.g., retracted) position, such that the wing 1130 can face the surface and debris behind the cleaning head.

[0174] The vane 1130 may overlap with adjacent vanes 1130. In some aspects, the vane 1130 may be flexible, such that, for example, when the cleaning head 1101 moves along the surface during its forward stroke, the vane 1130 may deform due to contact with the surface to be cleaned. For example, the vane 1130 may be formed of a flexible rubber material, a flexible polymer material, a flexible cloth material, and / or combinations thereof. When the wall 1110 is in the second position and the cleaning head is in the reverse stroke, the vane 1130 may deform to form angled channels 1118, thereby allowing debris to pass through and airflow to be delivered to the cleaning head 1101 through the multiple channels 1118. Forming the vane 1130 from a flexible material can improve (e.g., during the rearward movement of the cleaning head 1101) the seal between the vane 1130 and the surface to be cleaned. In some aspects, the shape of the vane 1130 may be polygonal. In some aspects, one or more of the vanes 1130 may be partially or substantially rectangular, triangular, and / or any other suitable shape. Additional details (for example, regarding wing 1130) are further described in application '438, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0175] Additional considerations

[0176] Although this disclosure has been described in the context of certain examples, those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure extends beyond the specific examples disclosed to other alternative examples and / or uses of this disclosure, as well as their obvious modifications and equivalents. Furthermore, while many variations of this disclosure have been shown and described in detail, other modifications within the scope of this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art based on this disclosure. It is also conceivable that various combinations or subcombinations of specific features and aspects of the examples can be made and still fall within the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various features and aspects of this disclosure can be combined or substituted with each other to form variations of the disclosed content.

[0177] Features, materials, properties, or groups described in connection with a particular aspect or example should be understood to be applicable to any other aspect or example described in this section or elsewhere in this specification, unless incompatible with it. All features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstracts, and drawings) and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed may be combined in any combination other than at least some mutually exclusive combinations of such features and / or steps. Protection is not limited to the details of any of the foregoing examples of apparatus or systems. Protection extends to any novel individual or any novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstracts, and drawings), or to any novel individual or any novel combination of steps of any method or process so disclosed.

[0178] Furthermore, certain features described in the context of individual embodiments in this disclosure may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments. Moreover, although features may be described above as functioning in certain combinations, in some cases, one or more features from a claimed combination may be removed from that combination, and that combination may be claimed as a sub-combination or a variation of a sub-combination.

[0179] Furthermore, while operations may be depicted in the accompanying drawings or described in the specification in a specific order, such operations need not be performed in the specific order shown or in a prescribed order, or all operations need to be performed to achieve the desired result. Other operations not depicted or described may be incorporated into the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional operations may be performed before, after, simultaneously with, or between any of the stated operations. Furthermore, in other embodiments, operations may be reconfigured or reordered. Those skilled in the art will understand that the actual steps taken in the illustrated and / or disclosed processes may differ from those shown in the figures. Depending on the system, some of the above steps may be removed, and others may be added. Moreover, the features and properties of the specific examples disclosed above may be combined in different ways to form additional examples of systems, all of which fall within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the separation of various system components in the above embodiments should not be construed as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products.

[0180] Unless otherwise specified, or otherwise understood in the context in which they are used, the conditional language used herein, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” etc., is generally intended to express that certain features, elements, and / or steps are optional. Therefore, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are required in any way, or that one or more implementations need to include logic for determining whether such features, elements, and / or steps are included or always performed, with or without additional input or prompting. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” etc., are synonymous and used inclusively in an open-ended manner, and do not exclude additional elements, features, actions, operations, etc. Furthermore, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (rather than its exclusive sense), so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the listed elements. In addition, the term “each” as used in this article, besides having its ordinary meaning, can also refer to any subset of a set of elements to which the term “each” is applied.

[0181] Unless otherwise specified, connective language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z” is understood in context to generally express that an item, term, etc., can be X, Y, or Z. Therefore, such connective language is not generally intended to imply that some implementation requires the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

[0182] The degree language used herein, such as the terms “approximately,” “about,” “roughly,” and “substantially”, refers to a value, quantity, or characteristic that is close to the stated value, quantity, or characteristic while still performing the desired function or achieving the desired result. For example, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “roughly,” and “substantially” can refer to a quantity that is less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, and less than 0.01%. As another example, in some embodiments, the terms “generally parallel” and “substantially parallel” refer to a value, quantity, or characteristic that deviates from exact parallelism by less than or equal to 10 degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, or 1 degree. As another example, in some embodiments, the terms “generally perpendicular” and “substantially perpendicular” refer to a value, quantity, or characteristic that deviates from exact perpendicularity by less than or equal to 10 degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, or 1 degree.

[0183] While novel features have been shown, described, and pointed out in the detailed description above, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes may be made to the form and details of the illustrated apparatus or system without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. As will be appreciated, certain portions of this specification may be presented in a form that does not provide all the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features may be used or practiced separately from other features. The scope of certain embodiments disclosed herein is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All modifications within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are included within their scope.

Claims

1. A cleaning head for a surface cleaner, characterized in that... include: Suction inlet; A cleaning roller, which is at least partially disposed within the suction inlet; A wall, which is movable between an unfolded position and a retracted position, wherein: As the cleaning head moves forward along the surface to be cleaned, the wall is in the unfolded position; When the cleaning head moves in the rearward direction along the surface to be cleaned, the wall is in the retracted position; The wall in the unfolded position is a first distance away from the surface; and The wall in the retracted position is at a second distance from the surface, and the second distance is greater than the first distance; At least one downward protrusion, the downward protrusion being operatively coupled to the wall, wherein rearward movement of the cleaning head causes the downward protrusion to operatively move the wall from the unfolded position to the retracted position; A plurality of crenellations, the plurality of crenellations being located behind the wall as the cleaning head moves in the forward direction; and Multiple channels are arranged between the multiple crenellations, and the multiple channels are configured to guide airflow toward the suction inlet when the cleaning head moves in the rearward direction.

2. The cleaning head according to claim 1, characterized in that... It also includes a base plate that is connected to a portion of the cleaning head at the bottom of the cleaning head, wherein the plurality of crenellations are integrally formed on the base plate, and wherein the walls are separate from the base plate.

3. The cleaning head according to claim 1, characterized in that... It also includes a base plate, which is connected to a portion of the cleaning head at the bottom of the cleaning head, wherein the base plate includes the wall and the plurality of crenellations.

4. The cleaning head according to claim 3, characterized in that, The base plate is connected to the cleaning head via multiple fasteners.

5. The cleaning head according to claim 4, characterized in that, The plurality of fasteners are spaced apart from each other between the plurality of channels.

6. The cleaning head according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multiple channels are not parallel in the forward-backward direction of the cleaning head.

7. The cleaning head according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of channels are angled toward the center of the cleaning head.

8. The cleaning head according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one downward protrusion has a length and is angled relative to the cleaning head, such that when the cleaning head moves in the forward direction, the at least one downward protrusion is configured to move along the surface, and when the cleaning head moves in the rearward direction, the at least one downward protrusion is configured to pivot such that the wall moves from the unfolded position to the retracted position.

9. The cleaning head according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one downward protrusion includes a foot, and the cleaning head further includes two feet positioned laterally near the cleaning head.

10. The cleaning head according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shapes of the plurality of crenellations are polygonal.

11. The cleaning head according to claim 1, characterized in that... It also includes a flexible hinge that connects the wall to the cleaning head, allowing the wall to pivot between the extended position and the retracted position.

12. The cleaning head according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one crenellation overlaps with an adjacent crenellation.

13. A base plate for a vacuum cleaner head, characterized in that... include: A wall, the wall being movable between a first position when the base plate moves along the surface to be cleaned in a first direction and a second position when the base plate moves along the surface in a second direction, the first direction being different from the second direction, wherein: The wall at the first position is a first distance away from the surface; and The wall in the second position is at a second distance from the surface, and the second distance is greater than the first distance; Multiple crenellations; and Multiple channels are arranged between the multiple crenellations when the base plate moves in the first direction, and the multiple channels are configured to guide airflow toward the front of the base plate when the base plate moves in the second direction.

14. The base plate according to claim 13, characterized in that, The base plate is connected to the cleaning head via multiple fasteners.

15. The base plate according to claim 14, characterized in that, The plurality of fasteners are spaced apart from each other between the plurality of channels.

16. The base plate according to claim 13, characterized in that, The multiple channels are not parallel in the forward-backward direction of the base plate.

17. The base plate according to claim 13, characterized in that, The plurality of channels are angled toward the center of the base plate.

18. The base plate according to claim 13, characterized in that... It also includes feet that are configured to move the wall between the first position and the second position.

19. The base plate according to claim 18, characterized in that, The foot has a length and is angled relative to the base plate, such that when the base plate moves in the first direction, the foot is configured to move along the surface, and when the base plate moves in the second direction, the foot is configured to pivot such that the wall moves from the first position to the second position.

20. The base plate according to claim 19, characterized in that... It also includes two feet positioned laterally near the base plate.

21. The base plate according to claim 13, characterized in that, The shapes of the plurality of crenellations are polygonal.

22. The base plate according to claim 13, characterized in that, At least one crenellation overlaps with an adjacent crenellation.

23. The base plate according to claim 13, characterized in that... It also includes a flexible hinge that connects the wall to the base plate, allowing the wall to pivot between the first position and the second position.

24. A cleaning head for a surface cleaner, characterized in that... include: Suction inlet; as well as The base plate according to claim 13.

25. A surface cleaner, characterized in that... It includes a handle, a suction motor, a dust collector, a debris separator, and a cleaning head as described in claim 24.

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