fan

Abstract

A blower is provided. The blower comprises a blower housing, which defines an air inlet and an air outlet opposite the air inlet, and a blower tube, which is detachably coupled to the air outlet of the blower housing. At least a portion of the blower housing and the blower tube defines an airflow channel. The blower housing includes a motor, a fan, a stator adjacent to the fan, and a plurality of guide elements. The plurality of guide elements extends from an inner surface of the blower housing and is configured to engage with the stator.

Description

Field of InterestThe present disclosure relates generally to an exterior tool such as a blower, and more particularly to improved blower functions.BackgroundExterior tools, such as blowers, are often used to collect dirt, e.g., leaves, using a blowing function. Fans driven by a battery power source are particularly desirable because of their portability. However, improvements in various aspects of fans, and particularly hand-held fans, are desired.For example, one or more of the following points would be advantageous: reducing assembly and disassembly difficulties, reducing size, reducing performance risks such as risk of shutdown and / or damage to electronics, improving sound quality and reducing sound volume, improving aerodynamics and airflow performance, reducing vibration during use, and / or improving user safety.Accordingly, improved fans are desired in the art. In particular, a blower that addresses one or more of the problems described above would be advantageous.Brief Description of the InventionAspects and advantages of the invention according to the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the technology.According to one embodiment, a blower is provided. The blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet opposite the air inlet, and a blower tube detachably coupled to the air outlet of the blower housing. At least a portion of the blower housing and the blower tube define an airflow passage. The fan housing includes a motor, a fan, a stator adjacent to the fan, and a plurality of guide members. The plurality of guide members extend from an inner surface of the fan housing and are configured to engage the stator.According to another embodiment, a blower is provided. The blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet opposite the air inlet, and a blower tube extending between a first end and a second end. The blower tube includes an inner wall extending from the first end to the second end and an outer wall extending from the first end of the inner wall. The outer wall and the first end of the inner wall are detachably coupled to the air outlet of the blower housing.According to another embodiment, a blower is provided. The blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet, an air outlet, and an air flow channel between the air inlet and the air outlet. The blower also includes a fan within the blower housing, a stator within the blower housing adjacent the fan, and at least one liner within the blower housing between the stator and the air outlet. The at least one liner is formed from a damping material.These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more fully understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the technology and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the technology.Brief Description of the DrawingsA full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode for making and using the present systems and methods directed to one skilled in the art, is set forth in the specification, which references the appended figures, in which: FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a blower according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 1B is a side view of the blower of FIG. 1A, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a fan housing of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 3A is a detailed side view of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the blower of FIG. 3A, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 4A is a top perspective view of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 4B is a detailed view of the blower of FIG. 4A, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 5 is an interior view of a fan housing of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 6A is an interior view of a fan housing of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a stator of the blower of FIG. 6A, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a spout of the blower of FIGS. 6A-6B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 7B is a side view of the spout of FIG. 7A, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a fan housing of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an inlet grille of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a fan case of the fan of the present invention; FIG. 1A- 1B is according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 11 is a top view of a fan tube of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 12 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a motor of a fan housing of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure; and FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a handle of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONReference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration.". Any implementation described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Moreover, each example is for explanation and not for limitation of the technology. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made to the present technology without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed technology. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to obtain yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure cover such modifications and variations as fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. The detailed description uses numerical and letter designations to refer to features in the drawings. Like or similar labels have been used in the drawings and the specification to refer to like or similar parts of the invention.As used herein, the terms "first / r / s", "second / r / s", and "third / r / s" may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another, and are not intended to refer to the location or meaning of the individual components. The singular forms "a", "an" and "the / s" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms "coupled," "fixed," "attached," and the like refer to both direct coupling, fixing, or attachment, and indirect coupling, fixing, or attachment by one or more intermediary components or features, unless otherwise indicated herein. As used herein, the terms "comprise," "comprising," "includes," "including," "has," "having," or any other variation thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or device comprising a list of features is not necessarily limited to only those features, but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent in such process, method, article, or device. Moreover, unless expressly stated otherwise, "or" refers to an inclusive or not an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any of the following conditions: A is true (or present) and B is false (or absent), A is false (or absent) and B is true (or present) and both A and B are true (or present).Approximate terms such as "about," "generally," "about," or "substantially" include values within ten percent higher or lower than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include terms that are greater or less than the indicated angle or direction within ten degrees. For example, "generally vertical" includes directions within ten degrees vertical in each direction, e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise.Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems are described below with respect to certain embodiments. However, the advantages, benefits, solutions to problems, and any features that may result in an advantage, solution, occurring or becoming clearer are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all claims.In general, the present disclosure addresses one or more of the problems described above by providing fans with improved features as shown and described herein. For example, a blower may include one or more features to prevent improper assembly of one or more components of the blower, improve ease of assembly and disassembly, reduce vibration during use, reduce sound volume during use, reduce the risk of shutting down and damaging the electronics, improve aerodynamics by reducing drag and airflow disturbances, improve safety by protecting users and electronics from impacts, and enable versatility for use with additional tool attachments.Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a blower according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the blower of FIG. 1A, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one exemplary embodiment, a blower 100 includes a blower housing 108 that extends between a first end 101 and a second end 103 opposite the first end. The blower housing 108 defines an air inlet 102 adjacent the first end 101 and an air outlet 104 adjacent the second end 103. The blower 100 may also include a blower tube 109 that is detachably coupled to the second end 103 of the blower housing 108. For example, the blower tube 109 may include a first blower end 111 configured to couple to the second end 103 of the blower housing 108 and a second blower end 113 opposite the first blower end 111. The second blower end 113 may delimit the air outlet 104. The blower 100 is configured to generate an airflow along an airflow channel 106 that extends between the air inlet 102 and the air outlet 104.For example, the airflow channel 106 may extend from the air inlet 102, through the blower housing 108 and the blower tube 109 to the air outlet 104, as shown in FIG. 1B.In at least one exemplary embodiment, blower 100 is provided as a standard hand-held blower with a wireless, battery-powered power source. For example, the blower housing 108 includes a handle 115. A power source 116 may be detachably coupled to the blower housing 108. For example, the power source 116 may include one or more batteries that are releasably coupled to a portion of the handle 115 of the blower housing 108. In other example embodiments, the blower 100 may include a wired electrical power source and / or a gasoline power source. In still other exemplary embodiments, the blower 100 may be provided as a standard backpack blower (not shown) suitable for being worn on a user's back and having a wireless battery power source.FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fan housing of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, blower housing 108 may at least partially enclose components of blower 100, such as an airflow generating assembly 110 including a fan 112 and a motor 114 driving fan 112, as well as various other components. The power for operating the airflow generating assembly 110 may be provided by the power source 116, such as one or more batteries, that are releasably coupled to the blower housing 108.In at least one exemplary embodiment, airflow generating assembly 110 may have an axial configuration. For example, the fan 112 and the motor 114 may be located within the fan housing 108 between the air inlet 102 and the air outlet 104 and oriented along a central axis 120 of the airflow duct 106. Rotation of the motor 114 causes rotation of a motor shaft 122 that extends along the central axis 120. The motor shaft 122 is coupled to the fan 112. In this way, rotation of motor shaft 122 causes rotation of fan 112.In at least one example embodiment, fan 112 includes a hub 130 and a plurality of blades 132. The hub 130 may have a generally circular cross-sectional shape and extend along the central axis 120. Motor shaft 122 is coupled to hub 130 and / or fan drive shaft 134 to allow rotation to be transmitted from motor 114 to hub 130 or fan drive shaft 134, and ultimately to blades 132.In at least one exemplary embodiment, airflow generation assembly 110 also includes a stator 200 disposed in series with fan 112 within blower housing 108. For example, the stator 200 may be disposed downstream of the fan 112 along the central axis 120. The stator 200 is configured to reduce the swirling in the airflow, such as the airflow along the airflow duct 106 associated with the rotation of the fan 112. The stator 200 may include one or more airflow features configured to reduce swirling. For example, the stator 200 may include air deflecting stationary surfaces, such as a plurality of vanes 205, shaped and angled to provide straightening characteristics to the airflow. The plurality of vanes 205 may be spaced apart around the motor 114 to provide similar characteristics to the airflow pattern over the entire perimeter of the airflow distribution of the blower.In at least one example embodiment, stator 200 is coupled to an inner surface of blower housing 108, as will be explained in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 5-6B. The stator 200 may be configured to secure the motor 114 and the fan 112 within the fan housing 108. In other example embodiments, the stator 200 is coupled to at least a portion of the motor 114. For example, the stator 200 may be coupled to a housing of the motor 114.FIG. 3A illustrates a detailed side view of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the blower of FIG. 3A, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, blower tube 109 includes an inner wall 300 and an outer wall 305. The inner wall 300 may extend from the first blower end 111 to the second blower end 113 of the blower tube 109. The outer wall 305 may extend from the inner wall 300 adjacent the first blower end 111. For example, the outer wall 305 may include a first portion 310 and a second portion 315. The first portion 310 may extend from an outer surface of the inner wall 300 at an angle 320. The angle 320 may be less than about 90°. The first portion 310 may be offset from the first end 111 of the inner wall 300 such that the first portion 310 and the inner wall 300 define a cavity 325. The first portion 310 of the outer wall 305 and the cavity 325 may encircle the first fan end 111 of the inner wall 300. For example, the cavity 325 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the second end 103 of the blower housing 108 and secure the blower tube 109 to the blower housing 108.In at least one example embodiment, second portion 315 of outer wall 305 extends from first portion 310 and is parallel to inner wall 300. The second portion 315 of the outer wall 305 is configured to cover at least a portion of an outer surface of the blower housing 108 adjacent the second end 103. The outer wall 305 and the inner wall 300 of the blower tube 109 are configured to form a liquid seal such that no airflow exits through the airflow channel 106 between the blower housing 108 and the blower tube 109.In at least one exemplary embodiment, blower tube 109 includes a fastener 330 configured to engage and disengage blower housing 108. The fastener may be located adjacent the lower portion of the blower 100. In other exemplary embodiments, the fastener 330 may be disposed adjacent a side portion or a top portion of the blower 100.In at least one example embodiment, fastener 330 includes a lever 335 having a first side 331 and a second side 332. The lever 335 may be rotatable about a rod or pin 340. The pin 340 may pass through an opening in the lever 335 and a corresponding opening in the outer wall 305 of the blower tube 109 to couple the lever 335 to the outer wall 305 of the blower tube 109. In at least one example embodiment, lever 335 is rotatable about pin 340 between an engaged position (shown in FIGS. 3A-3B ) and a disengaged position. In at least one example embodiment, first side 331 of lever 335 is configured to engage a protrusion 345 extending on an outer surface of blower housing 108 adjacent second end 103 in the engaged position such that blower tube 109 is secured to blower housing 108.In at least one example embodiment, an operator may actuate lever 335 by exerting a force adjacent second side 332 of lever 335. A biasing member 350 may be disposed adjacent the second side 332 of the lever 335. For example, the biasing member 350 may be located between the pin 340 and the second side 332 of the lever 335. The biasing member 350 may be biased between an extended position and a retracted position. When the biasing member 350 is in the extended position (see FIGS. 3A-3B ), the lever 335 is in the engaged position and the first side 331 of the lever 335 is configured to engage the protrusion 345 such that the blower tube 109 is secured to the blower housing 108. When the biasing member 350 is in the retracted position, for example, when the operator applies a force to the second side 332 of the lever 335 to overcome a force of the biasing member 350, the lever 335 is in the disengaged position. In the disengaged position, the blower tube 109 may be removed from or coupled to the blower housing 108. In at least one example embodiment, biasing member 350 includes a spring.FIG. 4A illustrates a top perspective view of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG. 4B illustrates a detailed view of the blower of FIG. 4A, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, second end 103 of blower housing 108 defines a notch 405 configured to receive an extension 400 of blower tube 109. The extension 400 may extend from the first blower end 111 of the blower tube 109. For example, the extension 400 may extend from the outer wall 305 of the blower tube.In at least one example embodiment, extension 400 is configured to be inserted within notch 405 of blower housing 108. The engagement of the extension 400 in the notch 405 may ensure that the blower tube 109 is properly installed and secured to the blower housing 108. For example, if extension 400 is not aligned with and inserted into notch 405, blower tube 109 may not be attached to blower housing 108. Additionally or alternatively, the blower 100 may not be operated when the extension 400 is not aligned with and inserted into the notch 405.In at least one example embodiment, notch 405 and extension 400 are adjacent to an upper portion of blower 100, as shown in FIGS. 4A-4B. In other example embodiments, notch 405 and extension 400 may be adjacent to at least one side or a lower portion of blower 100.In at least one exemplary embodiment, extension 400 is substantially flat. In other example embodiments, the extension 400 may be curved. For example, the extension 400 may have substantially the same shape as the outer wall 305 and / or the inner wall 300 of the blower tube 109.FIG. 5 illustrates an interior view of a fan housing of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, a plurality of guide members 500 are located within blower housing 108. For example, the plurality of guide members 500 may extend from an inner surface of the blower housing 108. The plurality of guide members 500 may be configured to engage the stator 200 and secure the stator 200 within the blower housing, as will be explained in more detail with reference to FIGS. 6A-7B.In at least one example embodiment, each of the plurality of guide members 500 includes a receptacle 505 and at least one elongated rib. For example, each of the plurality of guide members 500 may include a first elongated rib 510 extending from the receptacle 505 and a second elongated rib 515 extending from the receptacle 505 opposite the first elongated rib 510. The receptacle 505, the first elongated rib 510, and the second elongated rib 515 are configured to receive and / or engage at least a portion of the stator 200 and ensure that the stator 200 is properly aligned and secured within the blower housing 108.In at least one example embodiment, blower housing 108 may include at least one of the plurality of guide members 500 adjacent a first side of blower housing 108 and at least one of the plurality of guide members 500 adjacent a second side of the blower housing opposite the first side. For example, a first pair of the plurality of guide members 500 may be positioned adjacent a first side of the blower housing 108 and a second pair of the plurality of guide members 500 may be positioned adjacent a second side of the blower housing 108 opposite the first side. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first pair and second pair of the plurality of guide members 500 may include a rod 520. For example, the rod 520 may extend between adjacent receptacles 505 of the plurality of guide members 500.In at least one exemplary embodiment, each of elongated ribs, such as first elongated rib 510 and second elongated rib 515, of each of plurality of guide members 500 may include at least one rib notch 525. Each of the at least one rib notch 525 may be configured to receive and / or engage a portion of the stator 200 to align and secure the stator 200 within the fan housing 108.FIG. 6A illustrates an interior view of a fan housing of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of a stator of the blower of FIG. 6A, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, one or more grommets 600 are coupled to an outer surface of stator 200. For example, a first side of the stator 200 may include one or more of the grommets 600 (as shown in FIGS. 6A-6B ) and a second side of the stator 200 opposite the first side may also include one or more of the grommets 600. The receptacle 505 of each of the guide members 500, as shown in FIG. 5, is configured to receive each of the grommets 600. For example, each of the grommets 600 is inserted into the receptacle 505 of each of the guide members 500 when the stator 200 is properly inserted and installed in the blower housing 108.In at least one example embodiment, stator 200 includes a plurality of stator ribs 605 extending from an outer surface of stator 200. Each of the plurality of stator ribs 605 may be adjacent to each of the plurality of grommets 600. Each of the plurality of stator ribs 605 may be configured to limit radial movement of the stator 200 within the fan housing 108. Each of the plurality of stator ribs 605 may also prevent the one or more grommets 600 from dropping off the stator 200 during assembly and during installation of the stator 200 into the fan housing 108. For example, one or more of the plurality of stator ribs 605 may extend further from the outer surface of the stator 200 than the one or more grommets 600.In at least one example embodiment, one or more of plurality of stator ribs 605 define a space or gap 610. The gap 610 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the rod 520 extending between the receptacle 505 of the plurality of guide members 500 (shown in FIG. 5 ). For example, the gap 610 receives the rod 520 when the one or more grommets 600 are properly seated within the receptacle 505 of each of the guide members 500.FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of a spout of the blower of FIGS. 6A-6B, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 7B illustrates a side view of the spout of FIG. 7A, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, each of the one or more grommets 600 includes a first end 700 and a second end 705 opposite the first end. The one or more grommets may define an opening 710 that extends from the first end 700 to the second end 705. The opening 710 may be configured to receive a screw, bolt, or other fastener extending from the outer surface of the stator 200 such that the one or more grommets 600 overlap the screw, bolt, or other fastener.In at least one example embodiment, the one or more grommets 600 may taper from the first end 700 toward the second end 705. For example, the one or more grommets 600 may have a conical surface 715 adjacent the second end 705. The conical surface 715 is configured to assist in guiding the one or more grommets into the receptacles 505 of the guide members 500. In at least one example embodiment, conical surface 715 may form an angle 720 relative to an axis 725 that extends along second end 705. In at least one example embodiment, angle 720 is less than about 90°. For example, in some example embodiments, the angle 720 may be about 45°.In at least one example embodiment, one or more grommets 600 have a circular or cylindrical shape, as shown in FIGS. 6A-7B. In other example embodiments, the one or more grommets 600 have a rectangular, oval, or other polygonal shape. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more grommets 600 may have a shape that is the same or substantially the same as the shape of the receptacles 505 of each of the guide members 500.In at least one example embodiment, the one or more grommets 600 comprise a rubber material. In other exemplary embodiments, the one or more grommets 600 may comprise other suitable materials.FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fan housing of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, blower housing 108 defines a secondary airflow inlet 800 adjacent to first end 101 of blower housing 108, an airflow vent 805 adjacent to second end 103 of blower housing 108, and a cooling path 810 between secondary airflow inlet 800 and airflow vent 805. The cooling path 810 may be fluidly isolated from the airflow channel 106.In at least one example embodiment, control electronics 815 are located within blower housing 108 and are configured to control motor 114 and fan 112. Control electronics 815 may also be located within cooling path 810 such that air entering cooling path 810 through secondary airflow inlet 800 is configured to cool control electronics 815 and exit blower 100 through airflow vent 805.In at least one example embodiment, airflow vent 805 includes a plurality of vent openings 820. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 4A, the plurality of vent openings 820 may be located adjacent the second end 103 of the blower housing 108. For example, the plurality of vent openings 820 may be adjacent the notch 405 of the blower housing 108.FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an inlet grille of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, an inlet grille 900 may be located adjacent the first end 101 of the blower housing 108. The inlet grid 900 may define a plurality of openings, such as a plurality of passages 905 extending between a first side 901 and a second side 902 of the inlet grid 900. The plurality of passages 905 may form at least a portion of the air inlet 102, and each of the plurality of passages 905 is fluidly coupled to the airflow passage 106, as shown in FIG. 2.In at least one exemplary embodiment, the plurality of passages 905 have a airfoil shape. For example, each of the plurality of passages 905 tapers from the first side 901 of the inlet grid to the second side 902 such that the width of each of the plurality of passages 905 may decrease from the first side 901 to the second side 902. The tapered design of each of the plurality of passages 905 improves aerodynamics of air flowing into the blower 100. For example, the tapered design of each of the plurality of passages 905 reduces drag and airflow disturbances as air flows through the plurality of passages 905 and along the airflow channel 106 into the blower 100.In at least one exemplary embodiment, inlet grille 900 is a unitary or separate component configured to be releasably coupled to first end 101 of blower housing 108. In other exemplary embodiments, the inlet grille 900 is integrally formed with the first end 101 of the blower housing 108.FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fan housing of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, at least one liner is exposed within blower housing 108 of blower 100. For example, a first liner 1000 may be located between the stator 200 and an outlet adjacent the second end 103 of the blower housing 108.In at least one example embodiment, first liner 1000 includes a damping material configured to dampen sound generated by blower 100. For example, the damper material is configured to reduce noise associated with the air flowing through the blower housing 108 in general. Accordingly, the damping material can improve sound quality and reduce acoustic intensity emitted from the blower 100. The degree of sound attenuation may be adjusted by adjusting a length 1005 of the first liner 1000.In at least one exemplary embodiment, first liner 1000 comprises a cylindrical or tubular shape. For example, the first liner 1000 may be coupled adjacent an inner surface of the blower housing 108 and configured to surround an outlet cone 1010 of the airflow generating assembly 110 downstream of the stator 200. The first liner 1000 may also define at least a portion of the airflow duct 106 adjacent the second end 103 of the blower housing 108. The first liner 1000 may be secured within the fan housing 108 between the stator 200 and the second end 103 of the fan housing 108. For example, the second end 103 of the fan housing 108 may include a flange 1020 extending into the fan housing 108 towards the airflow duct 106. The flange 1020 may have a cylindrical shape that extends around the second end 103 of the blower housing 108. The flange 1020 may be configured to secure the first liner 1000 within the blower housing 108 adjacent the second end 103 such that the first liner 1000 does not come out during operation or assembly of the blower 100.In at least one example embodiment, a second liner 1015 may be located within blower housing 108 adjacent first end 101. For example, the second liner 1015 may be located between the air inlet 102 at the first end 101 and the fan 112. The second liner 1015 may be secured within the blower housing 108 between the inlet grille 900 and the stator 200, in some example embodiments. In at least one exemplary embodiment, second liner 1015 includes a cushioning material, such as the same cushioning material that first liner 1000 is comprised of.In at least one exemplary embodiment, second liner 1015 includes a cylindrical or tubular shape. For example, the second liner 1015 may be coupled to an inner surface of the blower housing 108 and may define at least a portion of the airflow duct 106 adjacent the first end 101.In at least one example embodiment, cushioning material of one or both of first liner 1000 and second liner 1015 comprises a foam. For example, the cushioning material of the first liner 1000 and / or the second liner 1015 may be an open-cell material, such as an open-cell foam. In some example embodiments, the cushioning material of the first liner 1000 and / or the second liner 1015 may be formed from a polyurethane foam, such as an open cell polyurethane foam. In other example embodiments, the cushioning material forming the first liner 1000 and / or the second liner 1015 may be a fiber-based composite material or another material, such as a fiberglass or natural fiber-based (such as jute) composite material or another material. In still other example embodiments, the cushioning material forming the first liner 1000 and / or the second liner 1015 may comprise other suitable materials.FIG. 11 illustrates a top view of a fan tube of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, blower tube 109 of blower 100 includes an interface configured to receive one or more attachments. The one or more attachments may be detachably coupled to the second blower end 113 of the blower tube 109. For example, the second fan end 113 of the fan tube 109 may include a plurality of threads 1100 for engaging and securing the one or more attachments to the fan tube 109. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the one or more attachments include a gutter attachment or other suitable attachment.FIG. 12 illustrates a detailed cross-sectional view of a motor of a fan housing of the fan of FIGS. 1A-1B, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, blower 100 includes a ground plate 1200 disposed in blower housing 108. The ground plate 1200 may be coupled to the motor 114 adjacent the second end 103 of the blower housing 108. For example, the ground washer 1200 may be located between the motor 114 and the exhaust cone 1010. In at least one exemplary embodiment, ground plate 1200 has a sinusoidal shape. In other example embodiments, the ground plate 1200 may have a curved, concave, convex, or flat shape.In at least one example embodiment, ground plate 1200 is configured to protect components of blower 100, such as control electronics 815, from electric shocks. For example, the ground plate 1200 may protect the control electronics 815 from electrostatic discharge generated impacts.Figure 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a handle of the blower of Figures 1A-1B in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.In at least one example embodiment, handle 115 may be coupled to blower housing 108. In other exemplary embodiments, the handle 115 may be integrally formed with the blower housing 108. A trigger 1305 may be disposed in the handle 115. The trigger 1305 may be electrically coupled to the motor 114, the power source 116, and / or the control electronics 818 and configured to control operation of the blower 100 by enabling and disabling the motor 114.In at least one example embodiment, a ground cable 1310 is located in handle 115. For example, the ground cable 1310 is located in the handle 115 adjacent the trigger 1305 so that an operator contacts the ground cable 1310 when operating the blower 100. The ground cable 1310 is configured to protect the operator from a surge generated by the blower 100. For example, the ground cable 1310 protects the operator from a current shock if something enters the blower 100.Further aspects of the invention are provided by one or more of the following embodiments:A blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet opposite the air inlet, and a blower tube releasably coupled to the air outlet of the blower housing. The fan housing includes a motor, a fan, a stator adjacent the fan, and a plurality of guide members extending from an inner surface of the fan housing and configured to engage the stator. At least a portion of the blower housing and the blower tube define an airflow passage.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein each of the plurality of guide members includes a receptacle configured to receive a portion of the stator, a first elongated rib extending from the receptacle, and a second elongated rib extending from the receptacle opposite the first elongated rib.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the stator comprises one or more grommets coupled to an outer portion of the stator, and the receptacle of each of the plurality of guide members is configured to receive the one or more grommets.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the one or more grommets comprise a rubber material.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the plurality of guide members comprises at least one first guide member adjacent a first side of the blower housing and at least one second guide member adjacent a second side of the blower housing opposite the first side.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the stator comprises two or more grommets coupled to an outer surface of the stator and a plurality of stator ribs extending from the outer surface of the stator adjacent the two or more grommets.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the two or more grommets comprise at least one first grommet adjacent a first side of the stator and at least one second grommet adjacent a second side of the stator opposite the first side.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the blower housing comprises a secondary airflow inlet, an airflow vent opposite the secondary airflow inlet and adjacent the air outlet, and a cooling path between the secondary airflow inlet and the airflow vent. The cooling path is separated from the airflow channel.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, including control electronics located in the cooling path and configured to control the motor and the fan. Air entering the cooling path through the secondary airflow inlet is configured to cool the control electronics and exit the blower housing through the airflow vent.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, including an inlet grille coupled to the air inlet. The inlet grid defines a plurality of openings, and the plurality of openings taper from a first side of the inlet grid to a second side of the inlet grid opposite the first side.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the plurality of openings comprise a airfoil shape.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, including a ground plate coupled to an end of the motor adjacent the air outlet. The grounding disk has a sinusoidal shape.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, including a handle coupled to the blower housing and a ground cable disposed in the handle.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, including a power source releasably coupled to the blower housing and electrically coupled to the motor. The power source includes at least one battery.A blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet opposite the air inlet, and a blower tube extending between a first end and a second end. The blower tube includes an inner wall extending from the first end to the second end and an outer wall extending from the first end of the inner wall. The outer wall and the first end of the inner wall are detachably coupled to the air outlet of the blower housing.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein a first portion of the outer wall extends at an angle from the first end of the outer wall, a second portion of the outer wall extends from the first portion parallel to the inner wall, and an inner surface of the second portion of the outer wall is configured to cover an outer surface of the blower housing adjacent the air outlet.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein at least a portion of the outer wall is concentric with the first end of the inner wall.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein at least a portion of an outer surface of the blower tube adjacent the second end comprises a plurality of threads.The blower of any one or more embodiments further includes at least one tool bit configured to be releasably coupled to the second end of the blower tube by the plurality of threads.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the blower housing comprises a protrusion extending from an outer surface of the blower housing adjacent the air outlet, and the blower tube comprises a fastener configured to engage the protrusion and secure the blower tube to the blower housing.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the fastener comprises a lever coupled to the blower tube via a rod. The lever extends between first and second ends and is rotatable about the rod. A biasing member adjacent the second end biases the lever between an engagement position and a non-engagement position. The first end of the lever engages the protrusion of the blower housing in the engagement position.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the blower tube includes an extension extending from the first end of the blower tube, and the blower housing includes a notch adjacent the air outlet. The notch is configured to receive the extension of the blower tube.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the extension extends from the outer wall of the blower tube and the extension has a substantially flat surface.A blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet, an air outlet, and an airflow channel between the air inlet and the air outlet. The fan includes a fan within the fan housing, a stator within the fan housing adjacent the fan, and at least one liner within the fan housing between the stator and the air outlet. The at least one liner is formed from a cushioning material.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the damping material comprises foam.The blower of any one or more embodiments, wherein the at least one liner has a tubular shape.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the at least one liner is coupled to an inner surface of the blower housing and defines at least a portion of the airflow duct.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the at least one liner comprises a first liner and the blower further comprises a second liner within the blower housing between the air inlet and the fan. The second liner is formed of a cushioning material.The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the second liner comprises a tubular shape. The second liner is coupled to an inner surface of the blower housing and defines at least a portion of the airflow duct.This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using devices or systems and performing methods incorporated therein. The patentable scope of the invention is determined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the wording of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the wording of the claims.

Claims

A blower comprising: a blower housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet opposite the air inlet, the blower housing comprising: a motor, a fan, a stator adjacent the fan, and a plurality of guide members extending from an inner surface of the blower housing and configured to engage the stator; and a blower tube releasably coupled to the air outlet of the blower housing, wherein at least a portion of the blower housing and the blower tube define an airflow passage.The blower of claim 1, each of the plurality of guide members comprising: a receptacle configured to receive a portion of the stator; a first elongated rib extending from the receptacle; and a second elongated rib extending from the receptacle opposite the first elongated rib.The blower of claim 2, wherein: the stator comprises one or more grommets coupled to an outer portion of the stator; and the receptacle of each of the plurality of guide members is configured to receive the one or more grommets.The blower of claim 3, wherein the one or more grommets comprise a rubber material.The blower of claim 1, the plurality of guide members comprising: at least one first guide member adjacent a first side of the blower housing; and at least one second guide member adjacent a second side of the blower housing opposite the first side.The blower of claim 1, the stator comprising: two or more grommets coupled to an outer surface of the stator; and a plurality of stator ribs extending from the outer surface of the stator adjacent the two or more grommets.The blower of claim 6, comprising two or more grommets: at least one first grommet adjacent a first side of the stator; and at least one second grommet adjacent a second side of the stator opposite the first side.The blower of claim 1, the blower housing comprising: a secondary airflow inlet; an airflow vent opposite the secondary airflow inlet and adjacent the air outlet; and a cooling path between the secondary airflow inlet and the airflow vent, the cooling path being separate from the airflow duct.The blower of claim 8, further comprising: control electronics located in the cooling path and configured to control the motor and the fan; wherein air entering the cooling path through the secondary airflow inlet is configured to cool the control electronics and exit the blower housing through the airflow vent.The blower of claim 1, comprising: an inlet grille coupled to the air inlet; wherein the inlet grille defines a plurality of openings; and wherein the plurality of openings taper from a first side of the inlet grille to a second side of the inlet grille opposite the first side.The blower of claim 10, wherein the plurality of openings comprise a airfoil shape.The blower of claim 1, further comprising: a ground plate coupled to an end of the motor adjacent the air outlet; and wherein the ground plate comprises a sinusoidal shape.The blower of claim 1, further comprising: a handle coupled to the blower housing; and a ground cable disposed in the handle.The blower of claim 1, further comprising: a power source releasably coupled to the blower housing and electrically coupled to the motor; wherein the power source comprises at least one battery.A blower comprising: a blower housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet opposite the air inlet; and a blower tube extending between a first end and a second end, the blower tube comprising: an inner wall extending from the first end to the second end and an outer wall extending from the first end of the inner wall, wherein the outer wall and the first end of the inner wall are detachably coupled to the air outlet of the blower housing.The blower of claim 15, wherein: a first portion of the outer wall extends at an angle from the first end of the outer wall; a second portion of the outer wall extends from the first portion parallel to the inner wall; and an inner surface of the second portion of the outer wall is configured to cover an outer surface of the blower housing adjacent the air outlet.The blower of claim 15, wherein at least a portion of the outer wall is concentric with the first end of the inner wall.The blower of claim 15, wherein at least a portion of an outer surface of the blower tube adjacent the second end comprises a plurality of threads.The blower of claim 18, further comprising at least one tool bit configured to be releasably coupled to the second end of the blower tube by the plurality of threads.The blower of claim 15, wherein: the blower housing comprises a protrusion extending from an outer surface of the blower housing adjacent the air outlet; and the blower tube comprises a fastener configured to engage the protrusion and secure the blower tube to the blower housing.The blower of claim 20, wherein: the blower tube comprises a lever coupled to the blower tube via a rod, the lever extending between first and second ends and being rotatable about the rod; a biasing member adjacent the second end biases the lever between an engaged position and a disengaged position; and the first end of the lever engages the protrusion of the blower housing in the engaged position.The blower of claim 15, wherein: the blower tube comprises an extension extending from the first end of the blower tube; and the blower housing comprises a notch adjacent the air outlet, the notch configured to receive the extension of the blower tube.The blower of claim 22, wherein: the extension extends from the outer wall of the blower tube; and the extension comprises a substantially flat surface.A blower comprising: a blower housing defining an air inlet, an air outlet, and an airflow channel between the air inlet and the air outlet; a fan within the blower housing; a stator within the blower housing adjacent the fan; and at least one liner in the blower housing between the stator and the air outlet, wherein the at least one liner is formed from a damping material.The blower of claim 24, wherein the damping material comprises a foam.The blower of claim 24, wherein the at least one liner comprises a tubular shape.The blower of claim 24, wherein the at least one liner is coupled to an inner surface of the blower housing and defines at least a portion of the airflow duct.The blower of claim 24, wherein: the at least one liner comprises a first liner; and the blower further comprises a second liner within the blower housing between the air inlet and the fan, the second liner formed from the damping material.The blower of claim 28, wherein: the second liner comprises a tubular shape; and the second liner is coupled to an inner surface of the blower housing and defines at least a portion of the airflow duct.

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