CLEANING DEVICE

Abstract

A cleaning device comprises a main body housing with a suction opening, a motor assembly housed within the main body housing and comprising a fan motor rotating about an axis of rotation to generate suction at the suction opening, and one or more flow paths through which air drawn from the motor assembly flows. The one or more flow paths are located between the motor assembly and the main body housing in a radial direction relative to the motor's axis of rotation, but only partially in a circumferential direction relative to the axis of rotation, and extend in a front-to-back direction parallel to the axis of rotation.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The techniques revealed in the present teachings relate to a cleaning device. BACKGROUND

[0002] A cleaning device disclosed in JP 7 514 668 B2 is known in the technical field relating to the cleaning device.

[0003] If the size of a cleaning device increases (becomes larger), a user of the cleaning device may have difficulty handling it.

[0004] One non-restrictive task of the present teachings is to suppress an increase in the size of a cleaning device. BRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] The above-mentioned problem is solved by a cleaning device according to claim 1.

[0006] In one aspect of the present teachings, a cleaning device comprises a main body housing having a suction opening, a motor assembly housed in the main body housing and comprising a fan motor rotating about an axis of rotation to generate suction at the suction opening, and one or more flow paths through which air drawn from the motor assembly flows. The first one or more flow paths are provided between the motor assembly and the main body housing in a radial direction of the axis of rotation only partially in a circumferential direction of the axis of rotation and extend in a front-back direction parallel to the axis of rotation.

[0007] According to the techniques disclosed in the present teachings, an increase in the size of a cleaning device is suppressed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a view from the top right front of a cleaning device and an extension tube according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 is a view of the cleaning device as seen from the top right front, according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 is a view of the cleaning device as seen from the right, according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the cleaning device according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 5 is an exploded view of the cleaning device as described in the embodiment, seen from the top right front. Fig. Figure 6 is an exploded view of the cleaning device as described in the embodiment, seen from the top right front. Fig. Figure 7 is an exploded view of the cleaning device as described in the embodiment, seen from the top right front. Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the cleaning device according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 9 is a view from the top right front of a part of the cleaning device according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 is a view from the top right front of a motor assembly, a first elastic component, a second elastic component and a third elastic component according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 11 is a view from the top right front of the motor assembly, the first elastic component, the second elastic component and the third elastic component according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the first elastic component according to the embodiment, seen from the top right front. Fig. Figure 13 is a right-hand view of part of the cleaning device according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 14 is a view from the rear right of a part of the cleaning device according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a cleaning device according to a further embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0008] In one or more embodiments, a cleaning device may comprise a main body housing having a suction opening, a motor assembly housed in the main body housing and comprising a fan motor (blower motor) rotating about an axis of rotation to generate suction at the suction opening, and one or more first flow paths through which air drawn from the motor assembly flows. The one or more first flow paths are provided between the motor assembly and the main body housing in a radial direction of the axis of rotation only partially in a circumferential direction of the axis of rotation and extend in a front-to-back direction parallel to the axis of rotation.

[0009] In the configuration described above, because one or more primary flow paths are only partially located in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation, an increase in the size of the cleaning device can be suppressed. Specifically, an increase in the size of the main body housing in the radial direction is suppressed.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the first flow path (the first flow paths) may be provided above and / or below the motor assembly.

[0011] In the configuration described above, since the first flow path (the first flow paths) is (are) located above and / or below the motor assembly, an increase in the size of the main body housing in a left-right direction is suppressed.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the cleaning device can have an inlet pipe section through which air, directed to the suction opening, flows, and a dust cup (dust pot, dust container) arranged in front of the suction opening. The inlet pipe section and the dust cup can be arranged in an up-down direction. The first flow paths can be provided above and below the motor assembly, respectively.

[0013] In the configuration described above, because the inlet pipe section and dust cup are arranged in the top-bottom direction, the top-bottom dimension of the cleaning device increases at the inlet pipe section and dust cup. A dead space is formed at the rear of the inlet pipe section and dust cup. Since the first flow paths are provided above and below the motor assembly, the first flow paths are located in the dead space at the rear of the inlet pipe section and dust cup. Because the dead space is used effectively, an increase in the size of the main body housing in the left-right direction is suppressed. Furthermore, because the air exhausted from the motor assembly flows through each of the first flow paths provided above the motor assembly and the first flow path provided below the motor assembly, a decrease in airflow is suppressed.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the main body housing can have a first rib projecting from an inner surface of the main body housing and directed towards (facing, opposite) a portion of an outer surface of the motor assembly, and a second rib projecting from the inner surface of the main body housing and arranged radially outside the first rib. The first flow path can be provided between the first rib and the second rib in the radial direction.

[0015] In the configuration described above, the first flow path can be formed through the first rib and the second rib of the main body casing.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the main body housing may have a first rib projecting from the inner surface of the main body housing and facing (directed, opposite) a portion of the outer surface of the motor assembly. The first flow path may be provided outside the first rib in the radial direction. The cleaning device may have a second flow path located between the motor assembly and the first rib in the radial direction of the axis of rotation, extending in the front-back direction parallel to the axis of rotation, through which air drawn off from the motor assembly flows. The air drawn off from the motor assembly may flow forward through the second flow path, pass over a front end region of the first rib, and then flow rearward through the first flow path.

[0017] In the configuration described above, the air extracted from the motor assembly flows forward through the second flow path and then backward through the first flow path. Because the flow path of the air extracted from the motor assembly is long, noise generation from the cleaning device can be suppressed.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, the cleaning device may have a first sound attenuation component that is arranged in the first flow path.

[0019] In the configuration described above, the first sound-absorbing component suppresses the noise generated by the cleaning device.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the first sound attenuation component may have first circulation holes that penetrate a front surface and a rear surface of the first sound attenuation component (penetrating the first sound attenuation component from a front surface to a rear surface of the first sound attenuation component).

[0021] In the configuration described above, air can flow smoothly to the rear through the first circulation holes.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the first circulation hole can be provided at a plurality of positions differently from each other in each of the top-bottom direction and the left-right direction of the first sound attenuation component.

[0023] In the configuration described above, air can flow smoothly to the rear through each of the circulation holes.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, a front-back dimension of the first sound-absorbing component can be larger than a top-bottom dimension and a left-right dimension of the first sound-absorbing component.

[0025] In the configuration described above, because the lengths of the first circulation holes in the front-back direction become long, noise generation caused by the air flowing through the first circulation holes is suppressed.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the main body housing may have a discharge opening for venting the air that has flowed through the first flow path. The cleaning device may have a second sound-dampening component located opposite the discharge opening on the inside of the main body housing. The second sound-dampening component may have second circulation holes penetrating a front surface and a rear surface of the second sound-dampening component (penetrating from a front surface to a rear surface of the second sound-dampening component). The size of the first circulation hole and the size of the second circulation hole may be different.

[0027] In the configuration described above, the second sound-dampening component suppresses noise generation from the cleaning device.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the cleaning device may have a first elastic component that is in contact with each of the front end regions of the motor assembly and the main body housing.

[0029] In the configuration described above, the first elastic component suppresses vibration transmission from the motor assembly to the main body housing. Therefore, noise generation from the cleaning device is suppressed.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, the main body housing can have a partition wall region arranged at the front of the motor assembly, in which the suction opening is formed. At least a portion of the first elastic component can be in contact with an inner surface of the suction opening. At least a portion of the first elastic component can be in contact with a rear surface of the partition wall region.

[0031] In the configuration described above, because at least part of the first elastic component is in contact with the inner surface of the suction opening, the motor assembly is restricted from moving in the radial direction. Because at least part of the first elastic component is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall area, the motor assembly is restricted from moving in the forward direction.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the first elastic component can have an annular large diameter region in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall region and an annular small diameter region projecting forward from the large diameter region and in contact with the inner surface of the suction opening.

[0033] In the configuration described above, because the small-diameter region of the first elastic component is in contact with the inner surface of the suction opening, the motor assembly is restricted from moving in the radial direction. Because the large-diameter region of the first elastic component is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall region, the motor assembly is restricted from moving forward.

[0034] In one or more embodiments, the first elastic component can have a metal mesh area (metal grid area, metal mesh area), a synthetic resin area to which the metal mesh area is fixed, and a rubber area to which the synthetic resin area is fixed.

[0035] In the configuration described above, because the metal mesh section is positioned in a ventilation opening of the first elastic component, dust is prevented from passing through the ventilation opening. The synthetic resin section ensures the rigidity (strength) of the first elastic component. The rubber section suppresses the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly to the main body housing, thus reducing noise generation from the cleaning device.

[0036] In one or more embodiments, the cleaning device may have a second elastic component located behind the first elastic component and in contact with each of the motor assembly and the main body housing.

[0037] In the configuration described above, the second elastic component suppresses the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly to the main body housing. Therefore, noise generation from the cleaning device is suppressed.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, the second elastic component can be arranged such that it is in contact with a position where the vibration is the smallest in the motor assembly when the fan wheel motor is rotating.

[0039] In the configuration described above, because the second elastic component is in contact with the position where the vibration of the motor assembly is minimal, the vibration of the motor assembly is effectively prevented from being transmitted to the main body housing. Therefore, noise generation from the cleaning device is effectively suppressed.

[0040] In one or more embodiments, a radially inner end region of the second elastic component can be in contact with the motor assembly, and a radially outer end region of the second elastic component can be supported by the main body housing.

[0041] In the configuration described above, the motor assembly is radially supported by the main body housing via the second elastic component.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, the second elastic components can be in contact with an outer surface of the motor assembly at four points in an intermediate area of ​​the motor assembly in the front-back direction.

[0043] In the configuration described above, the motor assembly is radially supported at four points by the main body housing. In the configuration described above, the motor assembly is supported by four secondary elastic components.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, the second elastic component may have a body area that is supported by the main body housing and a bearing area that has a bent (curved) surface in contact with the motor assembly.

[0045] In the configuration described above, the small contact area between the bearing area and the motor assembly effectively suppresses the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly to the main body housing. Therefore, noise generation from the cleaning device is effectively suppressed.

[0046] An embodiment according to the following disclosure is described below with reference to the drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to this embodiment. The components in the embodiment described below can be suitably combined. Furthermore, some components may not be used.

[0047] In this embodiment, the positional relationship of each part is described using the terms "front", "back", "left", "top", and "bottom". These terms indicate relative positions or directions with respect to the center of the cleaning device 1. Overview of cleaning equipment

[0048] Fig. Figure 1 is a view from the top right front of the cleaning device 1 and an extension tube 101 according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 is a view of the cleaning device 1 from the top right front, according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 is a view of the cleaning device 1 as seen from the right, according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the cleaning device 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 5 is an exploded view of the cleaning device 1 as seen from the top right front, according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 6 is an exploded view of the cleaning device 1 as seen from the top right front, according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 7 is an exploded view of the cleaning device 1 as seen from the top right front, according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the cleaning device 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. 8 corresponds to a cross-sectional view along line AA in Fig. 3.

[0049] In this embodiment, the cleaning device 1 is a cyclone cleaning device (cyclone vacuum cleaner, cyclone separator) that separates foreign material from the air using centrifugal force. The cleaning device 1 is a handheld cleaning device that can perform cleaning work while being held by a user of the cleaning device 1.

[0050] The cleaning device 1 comprises a main body assembly 2, a filter assembly 3, and a dust collection assembly 4. A rear end of the extension tube 101 is connected to the main body assembly 2. A suction nozzle 100 is connected to a front end of the extension tube 101. The suction nozzle 100 has a suction opening. A rotating brush 102 is located at the suction opening of the suction nozzle 100. The rotating brush 102 is rotated by a rotary force generated by an electric motor (not shown) located in the suction nozzle 100.

[0051] The main body assembly 2 comprises a main body housing 5, a battery mounting area 6, a motor assembly 7, an actuating panel 9 and a light 10.

[0052] The main body housing 5 accommodates the motor assembly 7. The main body housing 5 is made of a synthetic resin. The main body housing 5 has a pair of semi-divided housings. The main body housing 5 has a left housing 5L and a right housing 5R. The right housing 5R is located on the right side of the left housing 5L. The left housing 5L and the right housing 5R are secured by a plurality of screws 5S.

[0053] The main body housing 5 has a body area 11, a subdivision wall area 16, a handle area 12, a battery holding area 13 and an inlet pipe area 34.

[0054] The body section 11 accommodates the motor assembly 7. The body section 11 is essentially tubular in shape. The partition wall section 16 is arranged at a front section of the body section 11. The partition wall section 16 is plate-shaped. The partition wall section 16 is arranged such that it covers an opening at the front section of the body section 11. The body section 11 and the partition wall section 16 are integrated. A suction opening 14 is provided in the partition wall section 16. The suction opening 14 is located in the center of the partition wall section 16. The body section 11 is provided with exhaust openings 15. The exhaust openings 15 are provided in the left and right sections of the body section 11, respectively.

[0055] A user of the cleaning device 1 grasps the handle area 12. The handle area 12 is designed to extend backwards from an upper area of ​​the body area 11.

[0056] The battery holding area 13 holds a battery pack 17 above the battery mounting area 6. The battery holding area 13 is coupled to a rear area of ​​the body area 11 and a lower end area of ​​the rear area of ​​the handle area 12.

[0057] Battery mounting area 6 is located on a lower portion of battery holding area 13. Battery pack 17 is mounted on battery mounting area 6. Battery pack 17 can be attached to and removed from battery mounting area 6.

[0058] The battery pack 17 functions as a power source for the cleaning device 1. The battery pack 17 supplies electrical power to the cleaning device 1 when attached to the battery mounting area 6. The battery pack 17 is a general-purpose battery that can be used as a power source for various electrical devices. The battery pack 17 can be used as a power source for a power tool. The battery pack 17 can be used as a power source for an electrical device other than the power tool. The battery pack 17 can be used as a power source for a cleaning device that is different from the cleaning device 1 according to the embodiment. The battery pack 17 comprises a lithium-ion battery. The battery pack 17 is a rechargeable battery.Battery mounting area 6 has a structure that is equivalent to that of a battery mounting area of ​​the power tool.

[0059] The user of the cleaning device 1 can perform an operation to mount the battery pack 17 onto the battery mounting area 6 and an operation to remove the battery pack 17 from the battery mounting area 6. The battery mounting area 6 has a guide component that guides the battery pack 17 and a main body connector that connects to a battery terminal provided on the battery pack 17. The user can mount the battery pack 17 onto the battery mounting area 6 by inserting the battery pack 17 into the battery mounting area 6 from the rear. The battery pack 17 is inserted into the battery mounting area 6 as it is guided by the guide component. When the battery pack 17 is mounted onto the battery mounting area 6, the battery terminal of the battery pack 17 and the main body connector of the battery mounting area 6 are electrically connected.The user of the cleaning device 1 can remove the battery pack 17 from the battery mounting area 6 by moving the battery pack 17 backwards.

[0060] The motor assembly 7 generates a suction force at the suction opening 14 of the main body housing 5. The motor assembly 7 is housed in the body area 11 of the main body housing 5. The motor assembly 7 comprises a fan motor 8 and a control board 20. A rotor and a fan wheel of the fan motor 8 are rotatable about a rotational axis AX. The rotational axis AX extends in a front-back direction. The motor of the fan motor 8 generates power to rotate the fan wheel. When the fan motor 8 rotates, a suction force is generated at the suction opening 14. The control board 20 outputs a control signal to control the fan motor 8. The control board 20 includes, for example, a field-effect transistor (FET).

[0061] The operating panel 9 is operated by the user of the cleaning device 1. The operating panel 9 is located on the handle area 12. The user of the cleaning device 1 can operate the operating panel 9 by grasping the handle area 12. In this embodiment, the operating panel 9 has a mode switch 9A, a drive button 9B, and a display unit 9C. The switch 9A and the drive button 9B are operated by the user. The user can operate the mode switch 9A and the drive button 9B by grasping the handle area 12.

[0062] If the drive button 9B is pressed while the fan motor 8 is stopped, the fan motor 8 starts running. If the mode switch button 9A is pressed while the fan motor 8 is running, the speed of the fan motor 8 is set (adjusted) in four steps. If the mode switch button 9A is pressed once while the fan motor 8 is running, the speed of the fan motor 8 changes from the first speed to the second speed. If the mode switch button 9A is pressed once more, the speed of the fan motor 8 changes from the second speed to the third speed. If the mode switch button 9A is pressed once again, the speed of the fan motor 8 changes from the third speed to the fourth speed. If the mode switch button 9A is pressed once more, the speed of the fan motor 8 returns to the first speed.The suction force at the suction opening 14 is changed by altering the speed of the fan motor 8. If the drive button 9B is pressed while the fan motor 8 is being driven, the fan motor 8 stops.

[0063] The display unit 9C has four light-emitting units. A light-emitting diode (LED) is used as an example of a light-emitting unit. When the fan motor 8 is operated at the first speed, one light-emitting unit is switched on. When the fan motor 8 is operated at the second speed, two light-emitting units are switched on. When the fan motor 8 is operated at the third speed, three light-emitting units are switched on. When the fan motor 8 is operated at the fourth speed, four light-emitting units are switched on. When the fan motor 8 is stopped, the four light-emitting units are switched off.

[0064] The light 10 is located at the front of the handle area 12. The light 10 illuminates the front of the cleaning device 1. The light 10 has a light-emitting element, such as a light-emitting diode (LED).

[0065] The rear end of the extension tube 101 is inserted into an opening at the front end of the inlet tube section 34. A locking mechanism 36 is provided at the front end of the inlet tube section 34. The locking mechanism 36 secures the inlet tube section 34 and the extension tube 101 to each other. When the locking mechanism 36 releases, the extension tube 101 is removed from the inlet tube section 34. The extension tube 101 can be attached to and removed from the inlet tube section 34.

[0066] By inserting the rear end of the extension tube 101 into the opening at the front end of the inlet tube section 34, a power supply port 34C of the inlet tube section 34 and a power input port of the extension tube 101 are connected. By connecting the power supply port 34C of the inlet tube section 34 and the power input port of the extension tube 101, electrical power is supplied from the battery pack 17 to the electric motor located in the suction nozzle 100 via the power supply port 34C of the inlet tube section 34 and the power input port of the extension tube 101. When the drive knob 9B is actuated to rotate the fan motor 8, the electric motor located in the suction nozzle 100 rotates synchronously with the fan motor 8. When the electric motor located in the suction nozzle 100 rotates, the rotary brush 102 also rotates.

[0067] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, part of the filter assembly 3 is initially arranged at the front of the main body assembly 2. The filter assembly 3 is positioned such that it faces (opposites) the suction opening 14 of the main body assembly 2. The filter assembly 3 comprises a support frame 18 and a filter 19. The support frame 18 holds the filter 19. The filter 19 is located at the front of the suction opening 14 of the main body assembly 2. The filter 19 is permeable to air. The filter 19 collects contaminants from the air that passes through it. Air flows into the filter 19 from a front region of the filter 19. The contaminants contained in the air are collected by the filter 19. The air that has passed through the filter 19 flows out of an opening at the rear region of the filter 19 and then flows into the suction opening 14.

[0068] At least part of the dust collection assembly 4 is arranged at the front of the filter assembly 3. The dust collection assembly 4 comprises a cyclone housing 30 and a cyclone dust collection unit 40. The cyclone dust collection unit 40 comprises a filter unit 50 and a dust cup (dust container) 42.

[0069] The cyclone housing 30 is coupled to the body section 11. The filter assembly 3 is housed in a rear section of the cyclone housing 30. A locking mechanism 37 is provided at the rear end section of the cyclone housing 30. As shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, a recessed area 11R is provided at a front end region of the body region 11. The locking mechanism 37 is provided at a lower region of the rear end region of the cyclone housing 30. The recessed area 11R is provided at a lower region of the front end region of the body region 11. The locking mechanism 37 has a hook region that engages with the recessed area 11R and an actuating lever that moves the hook region. The hook region of the locking mechanism 37 engages with the recessed area 11R, thereby fixing the body region 11 and the cyclone housing 30 to one another. When the actuating lever is actuated and the fixing by the locking mechanism 37 is released, the cyclone housing 30 is removed from the body region 11. The cyclone housing 30 can be attached to and removed from body area 11.

[0070] The dust cup 42 is connected to the cyclone housing 30. Locking mechanisms 44 are provided at a rear end region of the dust cup 42. As shown in Fig. 6 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, recessed areas 30R are provided at a front end region of the cyclone housing 30. Locking mechanisms 44 are provided at a left and a right region of the rear end region of the dust cup 42. The recessed areas 30R are provided at a left and a right region of the front end region of the cyclone housing 30. The locking mechanisms 44 each have a hook section that engages with the corresponding recessed area 30R and an actuating lever that moves the corresponding hook section. When the hook section of the locking mechanism 44 is engaged with the corresponding recessed area 30R, the cyclone housing 30 and the dust cup 42 are fixed (to each other). When the actuating lever is actuated and the fixation by the locking mechanism 44 is released, the dust cup 42 is removed from the cyclone housing 30.The dust cup 42 can be attached to and removed from the cyclone housing 30.

[0071] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the cyclone housing 30 can be removed from the body region 11 in a state in which the cyclone housing 30 and the dust cup 42 are fixed. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the dust cup 42 can be removed from the cyclone housing 30 in a state in which the body region 11 and the cyclone housing 30 are fixed. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the dust cup 42 can be removed from the cyclone housing 30 in a state in which the cyclone housing 30 is removed from the body area 11.

[0072] The cyclone housing 30 is arranged parallel to the inlet pipe section 34 of the main body housing 5. The dust cup 42 is arranged parallel to the inlet pipe section 34 of the main body housing 5. The cyclone housing 30 is located upstream of the suction opening 14 of the main body housing 5. The dust cup 42 is located upstream of the suction opening 14 of both the main body housing 5 and the cyclone housing 30. The inlet pipe section 34 and the cyclone housing 30 are arranged in an up-down direction. The inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42 are arranged in an up-down direction. The cyclone housing 30 and the dust cup 42 are located below the inlet pipe section 34.

[0073] The air directed to the suction opening 14 of the main body housing 5 flows through an internal flow path of the inlet pipe area 34. As shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, an outlet opening 33 is provided in a rear end region of the inlet pipe region 34. The outlet opening 33 points downwards. An inlet opening 35 is provided in the upper region of the cyclone housing 30. The inlet opening 35 points upwards. The outlet opening 33 and the inlet opening 35 are coupled in a state in which the body region 11 of the main body housing 5 and the cyclone housing 30 are connected. The filter assembly 3 is located in the rear region of the cyclone housing 30 at the rear of the outlet opening 33 and the inlet opening 35.

[0074] The air that has flowed through the internal flow path of the inlet pipe section 34 flows into an interior space of the cyclone housing 30 via the outlet opening 33 and the inlet opening 35. The interior space of the cyclone housing 30 and an interior space of the dust cup 42 are connected. The air that has flowed into the interior space of the cyclone housing 30 is converted into a vortex flow by a vortex element (not shown) and flows into the interior of the dust cup 42.

[0075] A rear end section of the filter unit 50 is located inside the cyclone housing 30. A front section of the filter unit 50 is located inside the dust cup 42. The air flowing into the dust cup 42 from the cyclone housing 30 swirls around the filter unit 50. The air in the interior of the dust cup 42 passes through the filter unit 50 and is then discharged from the interior of the dust cup 42.

[0076] The filter unit 50 comprises a pre-filter 51, a sound-absorbing component 52, and a post-filter 53. The sound-absorbing component 52 is arranged around the post-filter 53. At least part of the pre-filter 51 is arranged around the sound-absorbing component 52.

[0077] The air that has flowed into the dust cup 42 from the cyclone housing 30 flows from the outside to the inside of the filter unit 50. Air that has passed through the pre-filter 51 flows into the sound attenuation component 52. Air that has passed through the sound attenuation component 52 flows through the post-filter 53.

[0078] The post-filter 53 is made of synthetic resin. In this embodiment, the post-filter 53 is made of ABS resin. The post-filter 53 has a tubular filter section provided with a plurality of holes. The holes of the tubular filter section are configured such that they penetrate an inner surface and an outer surface of the tubular filter section (that they penetrate the tubular filter section from an inner surface to an outer surface of the tubular filter section).

[0079] The sound-absorbing component 52 is arranged around the tubular filter section of the post-filter 53. The sound-absorbing component 52 comprises a cylindrical foam component (sponge component). The foam component is made of a urethane resin. The foam component is a porous component through which air can pass.

[0080] At least part of the pre-filter 51 is arranged around the sound-absorbing component 52. The pre-filter 51 has a cylindrical mesh component (grid component). The mesh component is arranged around the sound-absorbing component 52. The mesh component is made of a nylon resin. The mesh component has a plurality of holes through which air passes.

[0081] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, a bearing plate area 31 is provided at the front of the filter assembly 3 in the cyclone housing 30. An opening area 32 is provided in the middle of the bearing plate area 31. A rear end area of ​​the post-filter 53 is inserted into the opening area 32. The filter unit 50 can be attached to and removed from the bearing plate area 31 of the cyclone housing 30.

[0082] An inlet opening is provided at the rear end of the post-filter 53. The rear end of the post-filter 53 is located in the opening area 32. A space inside the post-filter 53 and a space around the filter assembly 3 are connected via the opening area 32. The fan motor 8 can generate suction in the filter unit 50. When the fan motor 8 is driven to generate suction at the suction opening 14, suction is generated at the opening area 32 via the filter assembly 3, which is housed in the interior of the cyclone casing 30. When suction is generated in the opening area 32, the space inside the post-filter 53 has a negative pressure, and suction is generated in the filter unit 50. When the space inside the post-filter 53 has a negative pressure, air flows from the space around the filter unit 50 toward the space inside the post-filter 53.The air around the filter unit 50 passes through the pre-filter 51, through the sound-absorbing component 52, and then through the post-filter 53, flowing into the space inside the post-filter 53. The air that has flowed into the space inside the post-filter 53 exits the outlet opening at the rear end of the post-filter 53 and is fed to the filter assembly 3. The air that has passed through the filter assembly 3 flows from the suction opening 14 into the motor assembly 7. Engine assembly

[0083] Fig. Figure 9 is a view from the front right of a part of the cleaning device 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 9 is a view showing part of the cleaning device 1 in a state where the right housing 5R is removed. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the cleaning device 1 comprises the motor assembly 7, a first elastic component 71 which is in contact with the front end region of the motor assembly 7, second elastic components 72 which are in contact with an intermediate region of the motor assembly 7 in the front-back direction, and third elastic components 73 which are in contact with the rear end region of the motor assembly 7.

[0084] Fig. Figure 10 is a view from the top right front of the motor assembly 7, the first elastic component 71, the second elastic components 72 and the third elastic components 73 according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 is a view seen from the top right front, showing a state in which each of the first elastic component 71, the second elastic components 72 and the third elastic components 73 are in contact with the motor assembly 7. Fig. Figure 11 is a view of the motor assembly 7, the first elastic component 71, the second elastic components 72 and the third elastic components 73 according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 11 is a view showing a state in which each of the first elastic component 71, the second elastic components 72 and the third elastic components 73 are separated from the motor assembly 7.

[0085] The motor assembly 7 comprises a motor housing 22, a fan wheel cover 24, and a control board 20. The motor housing 22 accommodates the fan motor 8. The fan wheel cover 24 is fixed to a front area of ​​the motor housing 22. In the fan motor 8, the fan wheel is located at the front of the motor. The fan wheel cover 24 is positioned to cover the fan wheel.

[0086] The motor housing 22 has a cylindrical section 23 and leg sections 26. The cylindrical section 23 is arranged to surround the axis of rotation AX. The cylindrical section 23 is arranged to surround the fan motor 8. The leg sections 26 support the control board 20. The leg sections 26 project rearward from the rear end of the cylindrical section 23. Two leg sections 26 are provided. The two leg sections 26 are arranged at positions that are radially opposite each other. Rear portions of the leg sections 26 are arranged radially on the outer surface of the cylindrical section 23.

[0087] The fan wheel cover 24 has a cylindrical section 24A, a hook section 24B, a plate section 24C, and a rib section 24D. The cylindrical section 24A is arranged to surround the axis of rotation AX. The cylindrical section 24A is arranged around a front section of the cylindrical section 23. The hook section 24B is hooked onto a claw section 23A, which is provided on the outer surface of the cylindrical section 23. The hook section 24B is hooked onto the claw section 23A, thereby fixing the fan wheel cover 24 to the motor housing 22. The plate section 24C is designed to cover an opening at the front end section of the cylindrical section 24A. The plate section 24C is formed inside the front end section of the cylindrical section 24A. The outer shape of the plate section 24C is essentially circular.A plurality of rib regions 24D are formed between the plate region 24C and a front end region of an inner surface of the cylindrical region 24A. The rib regions 24D connect the cylindrical region 24A and the plate region 24C. The majority of the rib regions 24D are spaced circumferentially around the axis of rotation AX. The rib regions 24D ensure the rigidity of the fan wheel cover 24. A decrease in the strength of the fan wheel cover 24 is suppressed, and deformation of the fan wheel cover 24 is suppressed.

[0088] The motor assembly 7 has an intake opening 22A and an exhaust opening 22B. The intake opening 22A is located at the front end of the motor assembly 7. The exhaust opening 22B is located at the rear of the intake opening 22A. The intake opening 22A is located in the fan wheel cover 24. The intake opening 22A is located in the center of the plate area 24C of the fan wheel cover 24. The intake opening 22A is substantially circular. The center of the intake opening 22A coincides substantially with the axis of rotation AX. The exhaust opening 22B is located at the rear end of the cylindrical area 23. The exhaust opening 22B is located between the rear end of an outer surface of the fan motor 8 and the rear end of an inner surface of the cylindrical area 23.A housing flow path 68 is provided between the outer surface of the fan wheel motor 8 and the inner surface of the cylindrical area 23. The air that has flowed into the motor assembly 7 (motor housing 22) from the intake opening 22A flows to the rear through the housing flow path 68 and is then discharged from the discharge opening 22B.

[0089] The control board 20 outputs a control signal for controlling the fan motor 8. The control board 20 is supported by the leg section 26. The control board 20 is positioned between the two leg sections 26.

[0090] The first elastic component 71 is in contact with each of the front end regions of the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5. At least a portion of the first elastic component 71 is in contact with the fan wheel cover 24. The first elastic component 71 is located at a front end region of the fan wheel cover 24. The main body housing 5 has the partition wall region 16, which is located at the front of the motor assembly 7. The intake opening 14 is formed in the partition wall region 16. At least a portion of the first elastic component 71 is in contact with an inner surface of the intake opening 14. At least a portion of the first elastic component 71 is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall region 16.

[0091] The first elastic component 71 has an annular large-diameter region 71A and an annular small-diameter region 71B, which projects forward from the large-diameter region 71A. Each of the large-diameter region 71A and the small-diameter region 71B has an annular shape. Each of the large-diameter region 71A and the small-diameter region 71B is arranged around the axis of rotation AX. A center of the large-diameter region 71A and a center of the small-diameter region 71B coincide substantially with the axis of rotation AX. In the radial direction of the axis of rotation AX, one dimension (diameter) of the large-diameter region 71A is larger than a dimension (diameter) of the small-diameter region 71B. A front surface of the large-diameter region 71A is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall region 16. The small-diameter region 71B is arranged in the suction opening 14.An outer surface of the small diameter area 71B is in contact with the inner surface of the suction opening 14.

[0092] The first elastic component 71 has a ventilation opening 71C. The ventilation opening 71C is designed to penetrate a front surface of the small-diameter region 71B and the rear surface of the large-diameter region 71A (that it penetrates the first elastic component 71 from a front surface of the small-diameter region 71B to the rear surface of the large-diameter region 71A). The ventilation opening 71C has a chamber inside the annular large-diameter region 71A and a chamber inside the tubular small-diameter region 71B. When the fan motor 8 rotates, air flows around the filter assembly 3 into the intake opening 22A of the motor assembly 7 via the ventilation opening 71C.

[0093] When the fan motor 8 rotates and the interior of the cyclone housing 30 is pressurized, the motor assembly 7 moves forward. Because the front surface of the large-diameter section 71A is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall section 16, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving forward. Because the small-diameter section 71B is located at (in) the suction opening 14, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving radially. A frictional force between the front surface of the large-diameter section 71A and the rear surface of the partition wall section 16, and a frictional force between the outer surface of the small-diameter section 71B and the inner surface of the suction opening 14, restrict the motor assembly 7 from moving circumferentially.

[0094] Fig. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the first elastic component 71 according to the embodiment, viewed from the top right front. In this embodiment, the first elastic component 71 has a metal mesh area 711, a synthetic resin area 712 to which the metal mesh area 711 is fixed, and a rubber area 713 to which the synthetic resin area 712 is fixed. The synthetic resin area 712 is arranged such that it surrounds the ventilation opening 71C. The rubber area 713 is also arranged such that it surrounds the ventilation opening 71C. At least a portion of the rubber area 713 is arranged such that it surrounds the synthetic resin area 712. At least a portion of the rubber area 713 is arranged radially outside the synthetic resin area 712.A front region of an inner circumferential surface of the ventilation opening 71C is formed by an inner circumferential surface of the synthetic resin region 712. A rear end region of the inner circumferential surface of the ventilation opening 71C is formed by an inner circumferential surface of the rubber region 713. The predominant part of the surface of the first elastic component 71 is the surface of the rubber region 713. Each of the rear surface of the large-diameter region 71A, an outer circumferential surface of the large-diameter region 71A, the front surface of the large-diameter region 71A, and an outer circumferential surface of the small-diameter region 71B is formed by the surface of the rubber region 713. The front surface of the small-diameter region 71B has a surface of the synthetic resin region 712 and a surface of the rubber region 713. The front surface of the small-diameter region 71B has an annular shape.A circumferential edge region of the front surface of the small-diameter region 71B is formed by the surface of the rubber region 713. A region on the radial inner side of the surface of the rubber region 713 on the front surface of the small-diameter region 71B is formed by the surface of the synthetic resin region 712. The metal mesh region 711 is fixed to the synthetic resin region 712. At least a portion of the metal mesh region 711 is located in the ventilation opening 71C. The synthetic resin region 712 is arranged around the metal mesh region 711, for example by injection molding.

[0095] The second elastic components 72 are arranged behind the first elastic component 71. The second elastic components 72 are made of rubber. The second elastic components 72 are in contact with the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5. At least a portion of each of the second elastic components 72 is in contact with an intermediate region of the cylindrical area 23 of the motor housing 22 in the front-to-back direction. At least a portion of each of the second elastic components 72 is in contact with an inner surface of the body area 11.

[0096] The second elastic components 72 are arranged such that they are in contact with positions where the vibration of the motor assembly 7 is minimal when the fan motor 8 is rotating. The positions where the vibration of the motor assembly 7 is minimal can be determined, for example, by a preliminary test or a simulation. In this embodiment, the positions where the vibration of the motor assembly 7 is minimal are the positions of the intermediate section of the cylindrical section 23 in the front-back direction.

[0097] The second elastic components 72 support the outer surface of the cylindrical area 23 from the radial outer surface of the cylindrical area 23 of the motor housing 22. The radial inner end regions of the second elastic components 72 are in contact with the outer surface of the cylindrical area 23 of the motor housing 22. The radial outer end regions of the second elastic components 72 are supported by the body region 11 of the main body housing 5.

[0098] In this embodiment, the second elastic components 72 are arranged such that they are in contact with the outer surface of the cylindrical area 23 at four points along an intermediate section of the cylindrical area 23 in the front-back direction. In this embodiment, four second elastic components 72 are provided. In the front-back direction, the positions of the four second elastic components 72 are identical relative to each other. A first second elastic component 72 supports the upper left region of the outer surface of the cylindrical area 23. A second second elastic component 72 supports the lower left region of the outer surface of the cylindrical area 23. A third second elastic component 72 supports the upper right region of the outer surface of the cylindrical area 23. The fourth second elastic component 72 supports a lower right region of the outer surface of the cylindrical area 23.

[0099] Each of the second elastic components 72 has a body area 72A, which is supported by the main body housing 5, and a bearing area 72B in contact with the motor assembly 7. The body area 72A is supported by a retaining rib 29 (see Fig. 8), which is provided on the inner surface of the body region 11. The bearing region 72B is arranged radially inside the body region 72A. The surface of the bearing region 72B has a curved surface shape. At least a portion of the surface of the bearing region 72B is spherical. The bearing region 72B is in contact with the outer surface of the cylindrical region 23 of the motor housing 22. The bearing region 72B is essentially in point contact with the outer surface of the cylindrical region 23. The cylindrical region 23 is supported by the four bearing regions 72B. The movement of the motor assembly 7 in at least the radial direction is restricted by the four bearing regions 72B (i.e., the four second bearing components 72).

[0100] The third elastic components 73 are arranged on the rear side of the second elastic components 72. The third elastic components 73 are in contact with the motor assembly 7. In this embodiment, the third elastic components 73 are each arranged on the leg sections 26 of the motor housing 22. Each of the third elastic components 73 has a recessed area 73A into which the rear section of the corresponding leg section 26 fits. Two third elastic components 73 are provided such that they are arranged on the two leg sections 26. Flow path

[0101] Fig. Figure 13 is a right-hand view of part of the cleaning device 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 14 is a right-hand view of part of the cleaning device 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. 13 and Fig. Figure 14 shows a portion of the cleaning device 1 in a state where the right housing 5R is removed.

[0102] The cleaning device 1 has inner flow paths 66 (secondary flow paths) through which the air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows, and outer flow paths 60 (primary flow paths) through which the air discharged from the motor assembly 7 also flows. The outer flow paths 60 are arranged radially outside the inner flow paths 66. The inner flow paths 66 and the outer flow paths 60 are arranged parallel to each other.

[0103] The outer flow paths 60 are provided between the outer surface of the motor assembly 7 (motor housing 22) and the inner surface of the body area 11 of the main body housing 5 in the radial direction of the axis of rotation AX. The outer flow paths 60 extend only partially in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation AX. The outer flow paths 60 extend in the front-back direction parallel to the axis of rotation AX. The air discharged from the exhaust opening 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows through the outer flow paths 60.

[0104] According to the present teachings, one or more external flow paths 60 can be provided above and / or below the motor assembly 7. In the embodiment, the external flow paths 60 are provided both above and below the motor assembly 7. In the following description, the external flow path 60 provided above the motor assembly 7 is suitably referred to as an external upper flow path 60A, and the external flow path 60 provided below the motor assembly 7 is suitably referred to as an external flow path 60B.

[0105] The main body housing 5 has first ribs 27 projecting from the inner surface of body region 11 of the main body housing 5, and second ribs 28 projecting from the inner surface of body region 11 of the main body housing 5. The first ribs 27 are opposite a portion of the outer surface of the motor assembly 7. The first ribs 27 are opposite a portion of the outer surface of the motor housing 22. The second ribs 28 are arranged radially outside the first ribs 27. Each of the first ribs 27 and at least a portion of each of the second ribs 28 are arranged in the same position in the front-back direction. Each of the first ribs 27 and at least a portion of each of the second ribs 28 are arranged in the same position in the left-right direction. The first ribs 27 and the second ribs 28 are opposite each other in the top-bottom direction.

[0106] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the first ribs 27 are provided in each of the left housing 5L and the right housing 5R. The first ribs 27 of the left housing 5L and the first ribs 27 of the right housing 5R are connected to each other. The first ribs 27 of the left housing 5L project to the right from an inner surface (right surface) of the left housing 5L. The first ribs 27 of the right housing 5R project to the left from an inner surface (left surface) of the right housing 5R. The right end regions of the first ribs 27 of the left housing 5L and the left end regions of the first ribs 27 of the right housing 5R are connected to each other.

[0107] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the second ribs 28 are provided on each of the left housing 5L and the right housing 5R. The second ribs 28 of the left housing 5L and the second ribs 28 of the right housing 5R are connected to each other. The second ribs 28 of the left housing 5L project to the right from the inner surface (right surface) of the left housing 5L. The second ribs 28 of the right housing 5R project to the left from the inner surface (left surface) of the right housing 5R. The right end regions of the second ribs 28 of the left housing 5L and the left end regions of the second ribs 28 of the right housing 5R are connected to each other.

[0108] The first ribs 27 are provided above and below the motor assembly 7. In the following description, the first ribs 27 provided above the motor assembly 7 are appropriately referred to as the first upper ribs 27A, and the first ribs 27 provided below the motor assembly 7 are appropriately referred to as the first lower ribs 27B.

[0109] The second ribs 28 are provided above and below the motor assembly 7. In the following description, the second ribs 28 provided above the motor assembly 7 are appropriately referred to as the second upper ribs 28A, and the second ribs 28 provided below the motor assembly 7 are appropriately referred to as the second lower ribs 28B.

[0110] The outer flow paths 60 are located radially outside the first ribs 27. Each outer flow path 60 is situated between the corresponding first ribs 27 and the corresponding second ribs 28. Each outer flow path 60 is defined by the corresponding first ribs 27, the corresponding second ribs 28, and the inner surface of the body region 11. Specifically, the outer upper flow path 60A is defined by the upper surfaces of the first upper ribs 27A, the lower surfaces of the second upper ribs 28A, and the inner surface of the body region 11. The outer lower flow path 60B is defined by the lower surfaces of the first lower ribs 27B, the upper surfaces of the second lower ribs 28B, and the inner surface of the body region 11.

[0111] In this embodiment, the front end region of each of the second ribs 28 is connected to the rear surface of the partition wall region 16. The front end region of each of the first ribs 27 is located behind the partition wall region 16. The front end regions of the first ribs 27 are separated from the partition wall region 16. The rear region of each of the first upper ribs 27A is bent downwards. The rear region of each of the first lower ribs 27B is bent upwards. The rear end regions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end regions of the first lower ribs 27B are connected to each other. The rear end regions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end regions of the first lower ribs 27B are connected to each other at positions behind the motor assembly 7.

[0112] Each of the internal flow paths 66 is provided between the outer surface of the motor assembly 7 and the corresponding first ribs 27 in the radial direction of the axis of rotation AX. The internal flow path 66 may be provided only in a portion of the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation AX, or it may be provided in the entire circumferential direction of the axis of rotation AX. The internal flow paths 66 extend in the front-back direction parallel to the axis of rotation AX. The air discharged from the exhaust opening 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows through the internal flow paths 66.

[0113] In this embodiment, the internal flow paths 66 are provided both above and below the motor housing 22. In the following description, the internal flow path 66 provided above the motor assembly 7 is suitably referred to as an internal upper flow path 66A, and the internal flow path 66 provided below the motor assembly 7 is suitably referred to as an internal lower flow path 66B.

[0114] The inner upper flow path 66A is defined by the upper region of the cylindrical region 23, the lower surfaces of the first upper ribs 27A, and the inner surface of the body region 11. The inner lower flow path 66B is defined by the lower region of the outer surface of the cylindrical region 23, the upper surfaces of the first lower ribs 27B, and the inner surface of the body region 11.

[0115] Within the interior of body section 11, a drainage chamber 61 is provided behind the outer flow paths 60. The drainage chamber 61 is defined at a position behind the first ribs 27. As described above, the rear end regions of the first upper ribs 27A and the end regions of the first lower ribs 27B are connected to each other at a position behind the motor assembly 7. An assembly space, which is provided in front of the rear end regions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end regions of the first lower ribs 27B, and in which the motor assembly 7 is arranged, and the drainage chamber 61, which is provided behind the rear end regions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end regions of the first lower ribs 27B, are subdivided by the rear end regions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end regions of the first lower ribs 27B.The assembly space comprises a space between the first upper ribs 27A and the first lower ribs 27B in the top-bottom direction. The assembly space is a space within the first ribs 27, which are defined by the first upper ribs 27A and the first lower ribs 27B. Air in the assembly space does not need to flow into the drainage space 61 via the rear end regions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end regions of the first lower ribs 27B. Similarly, air in the drainage space 61 does not need to flow into the assembly space via the rear end regions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end regions of the first lower ribs 27B. That is, air does not flow directly between the assembly space and the drainage space 61.

[0116] A rear end region of each of the outer flow paths 60 is connected to the discharge chamber 61. The air that has flowed through each of the outer flow paths 60 flows into the discharge chamber 61. A rear end region of the outer upper flow path 60A and a rear end region of the outer lower flow path 60B are each connected to the discharge chamber 61. The air that has flowed through the outer upper flow path 60A and the air that has flowed through the outer lower flow path 60B mix in the discharge chamber 61.

[0117] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the main body housing 5 has retaining ribs 29 that project from the inner surface of the body region 11 of the main body housing 5. The retaining ribs 29 are provided in each of the left housing 5L and the right housing 5R. The retaining ribs 29 of the left housing 5L project to the right from the inner surface (right surface) of the left housing 5L. The retaining ribs 29 of the right housing 5R project to the left from the inner surface (left surface) of the right housing 5R.

[0118] The retaining ribs 29 are opposite the corresponding first ribs 27. The retaining ribs 29 have upper retaining ribs 29A, which are directed towards the lower surfaces of the first upper ribs 27A, and lower retaining ribs 29B, which are directed towards the upper surfaces of the first lower ribs 27B. The upper retaining ribs 29A are located below the first upper ribs 27A. The lower retaining ribs 29B are located above the first lower ribs 27B.

[0119] The body section 72A of each of the second elastic components 72 is inserted between the corresponding first ribs 27 and the corresponding retaining rib 29. The body section 72A of the second elastic component 72 located at the upper left region of the motor assembly 7 is held by the first upper rib 27A and the upper retaining rib 29A of the left housing 5L. The body section 72A of the second elastic component 72 located at the lower left region of the motor assembly 7 is held by the first lower rib 27B and the lower retaining rib 29B of the left housing 5L. The body section 72A of the second elastic component 72 located at the upper right region of the motor assembly 7 is held by the first upper rib 27A and the upper retaining rib 29A of the right housing 5R.The body area 72A of the second elastic component 72, which is located on the lower right area of ​​the motor assembly 7, is held by the first lower rib 27B and the lower retaining rib 29B of the right housing 5R.

[0120] The cleaning device 1 has first sound-absorbing components 62 arranged in the outer flow paths 60. The first sound-absorbing components 62 are open-cell porous components. The first sound-absorbing components 62 dampen sound propagating through air to suppress noise generation.

[0121] The outer shape of each of the first sound-absorbing components 62 is essentially a rectangular cuboid. A front-back dimension of the outer shape of the first sound-absorbing component 62 is larger than a top-bottom dimension and a left-right dimension of the outer shape of the first sound-absorbing component 62. That is, the outer shape of the first sound-absorbing component 62 is a rectangular cuboid that is elongated in the front-back direction.

[0122] Each of the first sound-absorbing components 62 has first circulation holes 621 that penetrate the front and rear surfaces of the first sound-absorbing component 62 (penetrating the first sound-absorbing component from the front surface to the rear surface of the first sound-absorbing component 62). The first circulation holes 621 are provided at a plurality of positions that differ from one another in the top-bottom and left-right directions of the first sound-absorbing component 62. In this embodiment, five circulation holes 621 are provided in each first sound-absorbing component 62. The first circulation holes 621 extend in the front-back direction. The five first circulation holes 621 are parallel to one another.

[0123] The first sound-attenuating components 62 are arranged in each of the outer upper flow path 60A and the outer lower flow path 60B. In the following description, the first sound-attenuating components 62 arranged in the outer upper flow path 60A are suitably referred to as first upper sound-attenuating components 62A, and the first sound-attenuating components 62 arranged in the outer lower flow path 60B are suitably referred to as first lower sound-attenuating components 62B.

[0124] Two first sound-attenuating elements 62 are arranged in the left-right direction in each of the outer flow paths 60. A right surface of each of the left first sound-attenuating elements 62 and a left surface of each of the right first sound-attenuating elements 62 are in contact with each other. Two first upper sound-attenuating elements 62A are arranged in the left-right direction in the outer upper flow path 60A. Two first lower sound-attenuating elements 62B are arranged in the left-right direction in the outer lower flow path 60B.

[0125] The cleaning device 1 has secondary sound-absorbing components 64 arranged at positions opposite the discharge openings 15 inside the main body housing 5. The secondary sound-absorbing components 64 are open-cell porous components. The secondary sound-absorbing components 64 absorb sound propagating through the air to suppress noise generation.

[0126] The discharge openings 15 are located opposite the discharge chamber 61. The air that has flowed through the outer flow paths 60 is discharged by the discharge openings 15. The second sound attenuation components 64 are arranged in the discharge chamber 61.

[0127] Each of the second sound-absorbing components 64 has a substantially plate-like shape. A left-right dimension of the outer shape of the second sound-absorbing component 64 is smaller than a top-bottom dimension and a front-back dimension of the outer shape of the second sound-absorbing component 64.

[0128] The second sound-absorbing components 64 are arranged at positions opposite the discharge openings 15 provided in the left region of the body area 11 and the discharge openings 15 provided in the right region of the body area 11. Each of the second sound-absorbing components 64 has a front surface facing the center of the interior of the body area 11 and a rear surface facing the discharge openings 15.

[0129] Each of the second sound-absorbing components 64 has second circulation holes 641 that penetrate the front and rear surfaces of the second sound-absorbing component 64 (penetrating the second sound-absorbing component 64 from its front surface to its rear surface). The second circulation holes 641 are arranged at a plurality of positions that differ from one another in the top-bottom and front-back directions of the second sound-absorbing component 64. In this embodiment, a second sound-absorbing component 64 is provided with a greater number of second circulation holes 641 than the number (five) of first circulation holes 621 provided in a first sound-absorbing component 62.

[0130] The size (cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path) of a first circulation hole 621 differs from the size (cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path) of a second circulation hole 641. In this embodiment, the size of the first circulation hole 621 is smaller than the size of the second circulation hole 641. Usage methods

[0131] The following describes a usage procedure for the cleaning device 1. When the drive button 9B is actuated and the fan motor 8 begins to rotate, a suction force is generated at the suction opening 14. When the suction force is generated at the suction opening 14, a suction force is generated at the suction opening of the suction nozzle 100. The air drawn in through the suction opening of the suction nozzle 100 flows through an internal flow path of the extension tube 101 and then flows into the internal flow path of the inlet tube section 34 from the opening at the front end of the inlet tube section 34. The air that has flowed through the internal flow path of the inlet tube section 34 flows into the interior of the cyclone housing 30 through the outlet opening 33 of the inlet tube section 34 and the inlet opening 35 of the cyclone housing 30.The air that has flowed into the interior of the cyclone housing 30 passes through a turbulence component (not shown) and then flows into the interior of the dust cup 42.

[0132] The air flowing into the interior of the dust cup 42 becomes turbulent within it. Inside the dust cup 42, air and dust are separated by centrifugal force. The dust accumulates at the front end of the interior of the dust cup 42. The air, separated from the dust, flows from the outside to the inside of the filter unit 50.

[0133] The air flowing into the space inside the post-filter 53 from the space around the filter unit 50 flows out of the outlet opening provided at the rear end of the post-filter 53 and is fed to the filter assembly 3. The air that has passed through the filter assembly 3 passes through the ventilation opening 71C of the first elastic component 71, which is located in the intake opening 14. The air that has passed through the ventilation opening 71C flows into the intake opening 22A of the motor assembly 7. The air that has flowed into the intake opening 22A flows rearward through the housing flow path 68 between the outer surface of the fan motor 8 and the inner surface of the cylindrical area 23 and is then discharged by the discharge opening 22B of the motor assembly 7.

[0134] The air discharged from the exhaust opening 22B of the motor assembly 7 is fed into the inner flow paths 66 between the outer surface of the motor assembly 7 and the first ribs 27. The air discharged from the exhaust opening 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows into the inner flow paths 66 from the rear end region of the inner flow paths 66. As described above, air does not flow directly between the assembly space and the exhaust space 61. The air discharged from the exhaust opening 22B of the motor assembly 7 impinges on the front surfaces of the rear regions of the first ribs 27, which are located on the rear side of the motor assembly 7, and then flows into the inner flow paths 66 from the rear end regions of the inner flow paths 66.

[0135] The air discharged from the exhaust opening 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows into each of the inner upper flow path 66A and the inner lower flow path 66B. The air discharged from the exhaust opening 22B of the motor assembly 7 and flowing into the inner flow paths 66 (66A, 66B) from the rear end regions of the inner flow paths 66 flows forward through the inner flow paths 66. The air that has flowed forward through the inner flow paths 66 passes through the front end regions of the first ribs 27 and then flows into the outer flow paths 60 from the front end regions of the outer flow paths 60.

[0136] As described above, the front end regions of the first ribs 27 are located behind the partition wall region 16 and are separated from it. The front end regions of the inner flow paths 66 and the front end regions of the outer flow paths 60 are connected via a space between the front end regions of the first ribs 27 and the rear surface of the partition wall region 16. The first elastic component 71 is in contact with (in close contact with) the partition wall region 16. Therefore, the air that has flowed out of the front end regions of the inner flow paths 66 can flow into the outer flow paths 60 from the front end regions of the outer flow paths 60.

[0137] The air that has flowed through the inner upper flow path 66A passes over the leading edge regions of the first upper ribs 27A and then flows into the outer upper flow path 60A. The air that has flowed through the inner lower flow path 66B passes over the leading edge regions of the first lower ribs 27B and flows into the outer lower flow path 60B.

[0138] The air that has flowed from the front end regions of the inner flow paths 66 and into the outer flow paths 60 flows rearward through the outer flow paths 60. In this embodiment, the first sound-absorbing components 62 are arranged in the outer flow paths 60. The air flows through the first circulation holes 621 of the first sound-absorbing components 62. In this embodiment, the air flowing rearward through the outer flow paths 60 includes the air flowing rearward through the first circulation holes 621.

[0139] The rear end regions of the outer flow paths 60 (the rear end regions of the first circulation holes 621) are connected to the discharge chamber 61. The air that has flowed through the outer flow paths 60 flows into the discharge chamber 61. A rear end region of the outer upper flow path 60A (rear end regions of the first circulation holes 621 of the first upper sound-attenuating component 62A) and a rear end region of the outer lower flow path 60B (rear end regions of the first circulation holes 621 of the first lower sound-attenuating component 62B) are connected to the discharge chamber 61. The air that has flowed through the outer upper flow path 60A and the air that has flowed through the outer lower flow path 60B mix in the discharge chamber 61.

[0140] The air flowing into the discharge chamber 61 from the external flow paths 60 is discharged to the outside of the main body housing 5 by the discharge openings 15, which are directed towards the discharge chamber 61. In this embodiment, the second sound-absorbing components 64 are arranged in positions opposite the discharge openings 15 on the inside of the body area 11. The air in the discharge chamber 61 passes through the second circulation holes 641 of the second sound-absorbing components 64 and is then discharged by the discharge openings 15. Effects

[0141] As described above, in the embodiment the cleaning device 1 comprises the main body housing 5, which has the suction opening 14, the motor assembly which is housed in the main body housing 5, the fan motor 8 which rotates about the axis of rotation AX and generates a suction force at the suction opening 14, and one or more external flow paths 60 which serve as one or more first flow paths through which air, drawn from the motor assembly 7, flows. One or more external flow paths 60 are provided between the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5 in the radial direction of the axis of rotation AX only partially in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation AX and extend in the front-back direction parallel to the axis of rotation AX.

[0142] In the configuration described above, since the outer flow paths 60 are only provided in parts of the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation AX, an increase in the size of the cleaning device 1 is suppressed. In particular, an increase in the size of the main body housing 5 in the radial direction is suppressed.

[0143] In this embodiment, the outer flow path (the outer flow paths) 60 is (are) provided above and / or below the motor assembly 7.

[0144] In the configuration described above, since the external flow path (the external flow paths) 60 is (are) located above and / or below the motor assembly 7, an increase in the size of the main body housing 5 in the left-right direction is suppressed.

[0145] In this embodiment, the cleaning device 1 has an inlet pipe section 34, through which the air flowing to the suction opening 14, and a dust cup 42, which is arranged in front of the suction opening 14. The inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42 are arranged in an up-down direction. The outer flow paths 60 are provided above and below the motor assembly 7, respectively.

[0146] In the configuration described above, because the inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42 are arranged in the top-bottom direction, the top-bottom dimension of the cleaning device 1 increases at the inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42. A dead space is formed at the rear of the inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42. Since the outer flow paths 60 are provided above and below the motor assembly 7, respectively, the outer flow paths 60 are located in the dead space at the rear of the inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42. Because the dead space is effectively utilized, an increase in the size of the main body housing 5 in the left-right direction is suppressed.Furthermore, since the air diverted from the motor assembly 7 flows through each of the external flow path 60A provided above the motor assembly 7 and the external flow path 60B provided below the motor assembly 7, a decrease in airflow is suppressed.

[0147] In this embodiment, the main body housing 5 can have first ribs 27, which project from the inner surface of the main body housing 5 and face a portion of the outer surface of the motor assembly 7, and second ribs 28, which project from the inner surface of the main body housing 5 and are arranged radially outside the first ribs 27. The external flow paths 60 are provided radially between the first ribs 27 and the second ribs 28.

[0148] In the configuration described above, the outer flow paths 60 can be formed by the first ribs 27 and the second ribs 28 of the main body casing 5.

[0149] In this embodiment, the main body housing 5 has first ribs 27 that project from the inner surface of the main body housing 5 and face a portion of the outer surface of the motor assembly 7. The outer flow paths 60 are provided on the outside of the first ribs 27 in the radial direction. The cleaning device 1 has inner flow paths 66, which are second flow paths provided between the motor assembly 7 and the first ribs 27 in the radial direction of the axis of rotation AX. These flow paths extend in the front-back direction parallel to the axis of rotation AX and carry the air discharged from the motor assembly 7. The air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows forward through the inner flow paths 66, passes over the front end regions of the first ribs 27, and then flows rearward through the outer flow paths 60.

[0150] In the configuration described above, the air extracted from the motor assembly 7 flows forward through the inner flow paths 66 and then backward through the outer flow paths 60. Because the flow paths of the air extracted from the motor assembly 7 become long, noise generation from the cleaning device 1 is suppressed.

[0151] In this embodiment, the cleaning device 1 has the first sound-absorbing components 62, which are arranged in the outer flow paths 60.

[0152] In the configuration described above, the first sound-absorbing components 62 suppress noise generation from the cleaning device 1.

[0153] In this embodiment, the first sound-absorbing component 62 has the first circulation holes 621, which penetrate (from) the front surface and (to) the rear surface of the first sound-absorbing component 62.

[0154] In the configuration described above, air can easily flow to the rear through the first circulation holes 621.

[0155] In this embodiment, the first circulation holes 621 are provided at a plurality of positions that differ from each other in the top-bottom direction and the left-right direction of the first sound attenuation component 62.

[0156] In the configuration described above, the air can flow smoothly (evenly) to the rear through each of the first circulation holes 621.

[0157] In this embodiment, the front-back dimension of the first sound attenuation component 62 is larger than the top-bottom dimension and the left-right dimension of the first sound attenuation component 62.

[0158] In the configuration described above, since the lengths of the first circulation holes 621 become long in the front-back direction, noise generation caused by air flowing through the first circulation holes 621 is suppressed.

[0159] In this embodiment, the main body housing 5 has the discharge openings 15 for discharging the air that has flowed through the external flow paths 60. The cleaning device 1 has the second sound-absorbing components 64, which are arranged in positions opposite (facing) the discharge openings 15 inside the main body housing 5. The second sound-absorbing components 64 have second circulation holes 641, which penetrate (from) the front surface and (to) the rear surface of the second sound-absorbing component 64. The size of the first circulation hole 621 differs from the size of the second circulation hole 641.

[0160] In the configuration described above, the second sound-absorbing components 64 suppress noise generation from the cleaning device 1.

[0161] In this embodiment, the cleaning device 1 has the first elastic components 71 which are in contact with each of the front end region of the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5.

[0162] In the configuration described above, the first elastic component 71 suppresses the transmission of a vibration from the motor assembly 7 to the main body housing 5. Therefore, noise generation from the cleaning device 1 is suppressed.

[0163] In this embodiment, the main body housing 5 has the partition wall section 16, which is arranged at the front of the motor assembly 7 and in which the suction opening 14 is formed. At least a part of the first elastic component 71 is in contact with an inner surface of the suction opening 14. At least a part of the first elastic component 71 is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall section 16.

[0164] In the configuration described above, since at least part of the first elastic component 71 is in contact with the inner surface of the suction opening 14, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving in the radial direction. Since at least part of the first elastic component 71 is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall area 16, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving in the forward direction.

[0165] In this embodiment, the first elastic component 71 has the annular large diameter area 71A in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall area 16 and the annular small diameter area 71B, which projects forward from the large diameter area 71A and is in contact with the inner surface of the suction opening 14.

[0166] In the configuration described above, because the small-diameter region 71B of the first elastic component 71 is in contact with the inner surface of the suction opening 14, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving in the radial direction. Because the large-diameter region 71A of the first elastic component 71 is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall region 16, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving in the forward direction.

[0167] In the embodiment, the first elastic component 71 has the metal mesh area 711, the synthetic resin area 712 to which the metal mesh area 711 is fixed, and the rubber area 713 to which the synthetic resin area 712 is fixed.

[0168] In the configuration described above, because the metal mesh section 711 is located in the ventilation opening 71C of the first elastic component 71, dust is prevented from passing through the ventilation opening 71C. The metal mesh section 711 prevents dust from entering the interior of the motor assembly 7. The synthetic resin section 712 ensures the rigidity of the first elastic component 71. The rubber section 713 suppresses the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly 7 to the main body housing 5, thus suppressing the noise generated by the cleaning device 1.

[0169] In this embodiment, the cleaning device 1 has the second elastic components 72, which are arranged behind the first elastic component 71 and are in contact with each of the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5.

[0170] In the configuration described above, the second elastic component 72 suppresses the transmission of a vibration from the motor assembly 7 to the main body housing 5. Therefore, noise generation from the cleaning device 1 is suppressed.

[0171] In this embodiment, the second elastic components 72 are arranged such that they are in contact with the positions where the vibration is smallest in the motor assembly 7 when the fan wheel motor 8 is rotating.

[0172] In the configuration described above, since the second elastic components 72 are in contact with the positions where the vibration of the motor assembly 7 is smallest, the vibration of the motor assembly 7 is effectively suppressed and prevented from being transmitted to the main body housing 5. Therefore, the noise generation from the cleaning device 1 is effectively suppressed.

[0173] In this embodiment, the radial inner end region of the second elastic component 72 is in contact with the motor assembly 7, and the radial outer end region of the second elastic component 72 is supported by the main body housing 5.

[0174] In the configuration described above, the motor assembly 7 is radially supported by the main body housing 5 via the second elastic components 72.

[0175] In this embodiment, the second elastic components 72 are in contact with the motor assembly 7 at four points in the intermediate area of ​​the motor assembly 7 in the front-back direction.

[0176] In the configuration described above, the motor assembly 7 is radially supported at four points by the main body housing 5. In the configuration described above, the motor assembly 7 is radially supported by four second elastic components 72.

[0177] In this embodiment, the second elastic component 72 has the body area 72A, which is supported by the main body housing 5, and the bearing area 72B, which has a curved surface in contact with the motor assembly 7.

[0178] In the configuration described above, because the contact area between the bearing area 72B and the motor assembly 7 is small, the transmission of vibration from the motor assembly 7 to the main body housing 5 is effectively suppressed. Therefore, noise generation from the cleaning device 1 is effectively suppressed. Other embodiments

[0179] Fig.Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a cleaning device 1 according to a further embodiment. In the embodiment described above, the external flow paths 60 are provided only above and below the motor housing 22. That is, the external flow paths 60 have the external upper flow path 60A and the external lower flow path 60B. Instead, the external flow path 60 can have only the external upper flow path 60A or only the external lower flow path 60B. The external flow path 60 can have only one external left flow path 60C, which is provided on the left side of the motor housing 22. The external flow path 60 can have only one external right flow path 60D, which is provided on the right side of the motor housing 22. The external flow path 60 can have only one external left upper flow path 60E, which is provided on the upper left side of the motor housing 22.The outer flow path 60 can only have one outer right lower flow path 60F, which is provided on the lower right side of the motor housing 22. The outer flow path 60 can only have one outer right upper flow path 60G, which is provided on the upper right side of the motor housing 22. The outer flow path 60 can only have one outer left lower flow path 60H, which is provided on the lower left side of the motor housing 22.

[0180] In the embodiment described above, the cleaning device 1 is a cyclone cleaning device. The cleaning device 1 does not necessarily have to be a cyclone cleaning device.

[0181] Although the invention has been described with regard to a complete and unambiguous disclosure in respect of certain embodiments, the attached claims are not to be regarded as limiting, but are to be interpreted as encompassing all modifications and alternative constructions that a person skilled in the art might consider and which appropriately fall within the basic teaching set forth herein.

[0182] It is explicitly emphasized that all features disclosed in the description and / or the claims are to be considered separate and independent of one another for the purposes of the original disclosure as well as for the purpose of limiting the claimed invention, irrespective of the combinations of features in the embodiments and / or the claims. It is explicitly stated that all range specifications or specifications of groups of units disclose every possible intermediate value or subgroup of units for the purposes of the original disclosure as well as for the purpose of limiting the claimed invention, in particular also as a boundary of a range specification. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 7 514 668 B2

[0002]

Claims

[1] Cleaning device, with a main body casing that has a suction opening, a motor assembly which is housed in the main body casing and includes a fan motor which rotates about a rotary axis to generate a suction force at the suction opening, and one or more flow paths through which air, which is diverted from the motor assembly, flows, wherein the one or more flow paths between the motor assembly and the main body housing are provided in a radial direction of the axis of rotation only in a circumferential direction of the axis of rotation and extend in a front-back direction parallel to the axis of rotation. [2] Cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the first flow path(s) is / are provided above and / or below the motor assembly. [3] Cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an inlet pipe area through which air, which is directed to the suction opening, flows, and a dust cup located at the front of the suction opening, in which the inlet pipe area and the dust cup are arranged in an up-down direction, and The first flow paths are provided above and below the engine assembly. [4] Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the main body housing has a first rib projecting from an inner surface of the main body housing and facing part of an outer surface of the engine assembly, and a second rib projecting from the inner surface of the main body housing and arranged radially outside the first rib, and The first flow path is provided between the first rib and the second rib in the radial direction. [5] Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the main body housing has a first rib that projects from an inner surface of the main body housing and faces part of an outer surface of the engine assembly, the first flow path is provided on the outside of the first rib in the radial direction, The cleaning device further comprises a second flow path, which is provided between the motor assembly and the first rib in the radial direction of the axis of rotation, extends in the front-back direction parallel to the axis of rotation, and through which air diverted from the motor assembly flows, and the air, which is diverted from the engine assembly, flows forward through the second flow path, passes through a front end area of ​​the first rib, and then flows backward through the first flow path. [6] Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a first sound attenuation component arranged in the first flow path. [7] Cleaning device according to claim 6, wherein the first sound-absorbing component has first circulation holes that penetrate the first sound-absorbing component from a front surface to a rear surface of the first sound-absorbing component. [8] Cleaning device according to claim 7, wherein the first circulation holes are provided at a plurality of positions which are different from each other in each of an up-down direction and a left-right direction of the first sound-absorbing component. [9] Cleaning device according to one of claims 6 to 8, wherein a front-back dimension of the first sound-absorbing component is larger than a top-bottom dimension and a left-right dimension of the first sound-absorbing component. [10] Cleaning device according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein The main body casing has a drainage opening for draining the air that has flowed through the first flow path, The cleaning device further comprises a second sound-absorbing component, which is arranged in a position opposite the discharge opening inside the main body housing, the second sound attenuation component has second circulation holes that penetrate the second sound attenuation component from a front surface to a rear surface of the second sound attenuation component, and The size of the first circulation hole differs from the size of the second circulation hole. [11] Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a first elastic component which is in contact with each of a front end region of the motor assembly and the main body housing. [12] Cleaning device according to claim 11, wherein the main body housing has a partition wall area which is located at the front of the motor assembly and in which the suction opening is formed, at least part of the first elastic component is in contact with an inner surface of the suction opening, and at least part of the first elastic component is in contact with a rear surface of the partition wall area. [13] Cleaning device according to claim 12, wherein the first elastic component has an annular large diameter area in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall area and an annular small diameter area that projects rearward from the large diameter area and is in contact with the inner surface of the suction opening. [14] Cleaning device according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the first elastic component has a metal mesh area, a synthetic resin area to which the metal mesh area is fixed, and a rubber area to which the synthetic resin area is fixed. [15] Cleaning device according to one of claims 11 to 14, further comprising a second elastic component arranged behind the first elastic component and in contact with each of the motor assembly and the main body housing. [16] Cleaning device according to claim 15, wherein the second elastic component is arranged such that it is in contact with a position in which a vibration is the smallest in the motor assembly when the fan wheel motor rotates. [17] Cleaning device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein a radially inner end region of the second elastic component is in contact with the motor assembly, and a radially outer end region of the second elastic component is supported by the main body housing. [18] Cleaning device according to one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the second elastic component(s) is / are in contact with an outer surface of the motor assembly at four points in an intermediate area of ​​the motor assembly in the front-back direction. [19] Cleaning device according to one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the second elastic component a body area that is supported by the main body casing, and a bearing area that has a curved surface in contact with the motor assembly.

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