Vacuum cleaner nozzle assembly

Abstract

A nozzle assembly (10) for use with a vacuum device includes a housing (12), a neck (28), and a front slide (30, 30'). The housing defines a duct extending therethrough. The neck is connected to and extends from a portion of the housing, wherein the neck is configured to connect to the vacuum device. The front slide is mounted to a forward edge of the housing. The front slide is positioned to remain out of contact with the floor as an inclination angle of the nozzle assembly changes during operation of the nozzle assembly. The inclination angle of the nozzle assembly comprises an angle between the floor and a plane defined by a downward facing opening defined by the housing.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to vacuum cleaners. In particular, the present disclosure relates to attachment nozzles for vacuum cleaners.

[0002] Existing vacuum cleaner nozzles can incorporate standards regarding an overall performance of cleaning machines. Such standards can relate to power consumption, efficiency, cleaning rates, dust removal rates, and other such performance characteristics of the cleaning machine. One disadvantage of existing nozzles can be that the nozzles have difficulties in removing debris from a cleaning surface. For example, existing nozzles can have difficulty picking up debris during a backward stroke of the nozzle.

[0003] The inventor has recognized that there is a need for an improved system that overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages of existing vacuum nozzles.SUMMARY

[0004] A nozzle assembly for use with a vacuum device includes a housing, a neck, and a front slide. The housing defines a duct extending therethrough. The neck is connected to and extends from a portion of the housing, wherein the neck is configured to connect to the vacuum device. The front slide is mounted to a forward edge of the housing. The front slide is positioned to remain out of contact with the floor as an inclination angle of the nozzle assembly changes during operation of the nozzle assembly. The inclination angle of the nozzle assembly comprises an angle between the floor and a plane defined by a downward facing opening defined by the housing.

[0005] A nozzle assembly includes a top portion, a first endwall, a second endwall, a forward edge, a rear edge, and an inlet. The top portion includes a downward facing surface and an upward facing surface. The first endwall is connected to and extends from a first longitudinal end of the top portion. The second endwall is connected to and extends from a second longitudinal end of the top portion that is opposite the first longitudinal end of the top portion. The forward edge is connected to and extends between the first endwall and the second endwall. The rear edge is connected to and extends between the first endwall and the second endwall. The rear edge is disposed on an opposite side of the housing from the forward edge. The inlet is defined by the first endwall, the forward edge, the second endwall, and the rear edge of the housing. A height of the downward facing surface is defined from the downward facing surface of the top portion to the plane. At least 50% of the top portion includes a height that is less than 4% of a maximum height of the top portion of the housing.

[0006] A first aspect relates to a nozzle assembly for use with a vacuum device for cleaning a surface, the nozzle assembly comprising: a) a housing defining a duct extending therethrough; b) a neck connected to and extending from a portion of the housing, wherein the neck is configured to connect to the vacuum device; and c) a front slide mounted to a forward portion of the housing; wherein the front slide is positioned to remain out of contact with the surface as an inclination angle of the nozzle assembly changes during operation of the nozzle assembly. Preferably, the inclination angle of the nozzle assembly is defined by the angle between the surface and a plane defined by a downward facing opening defined by the housing.

[0007] A second aspect relates to a nozzle assembly for use with a vacuum device for cleaning a surface, the nozzle assembly comprising: a) a housing defining a duct extending therethrough; b) a neck connected to and extending from a portion of the housing, wherein the neck is configured to connect to the vacuum device; and c) a front slide mounted to a forward portion of the housing. Preferably the front slide is positioned to remain out of contact with the surface as an inclination angle of the nozzle assembly changes during operation of the nozzle assembly. Preferably, the inclination angle of the nozzle assembly is defined by the angle between the surface and a plane defined by a downward facing opening defined by the housing.

[0008] In one or more embodiments, the nozzle assembly further comprises d) a wheel pivotably attached to the housing. Preferably, the wheel is disposed to rotate about a centerline axis of the wheel and relative to the housing, and wherein the front slide comprises a front surface with a first curvature, i.e., the front slide comprises a curved front surface. Preferably, the first curvature of the front surface of the front slide includes a first radius of curvature, and wherein the first radius of curvature of the front surface of the front slide is equal to a distance from the front surface of the front slide to the centerline axis of the wheel. Alternatively, the wheel defines a wheel radius, and wherein the first radius of curvature is greater than the wheel radius of the wheel.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the nozzle assembly further comprises d) a wheel rotatably attached to the housing. Preferably, the wheel is disposed to rotate about a centerline axis of the wheel and relative to the housing, wherein a center of curvature of the front surface is coaxial to the centerline axis of the wheel.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the front slide further comprises a front surface, and a rear surface disposed opposite from the front surface. Preferably, the front surface and the rear surface of the front slide join together at an apex.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the front slide defines a first plurality of openings disposed in and along a length of the front slide. Preferably, at least one opening of the first plurality of openings is defined by at least one of an inlet, an outlet, a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a combination thereof. Preferably, at least one of the first sidewall, and the second sidewall of the at least one opening are curved, such that the inlet of the opening is larger than the outlet of the opening. Preferably, a height of the inlet is larger than a height of the outlet, a width of the inlet is larger than a width of the outlet, or a combination thereof.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the front slide defines a first plurality of openings disposed therethrough, wherein the plurality of openings is distributed with inconsistent spacing between adjacent openings.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the nozzle assembly further comprises e) a rear slide. Preferably, the rear slide is connected to and extending from a rear edge of the housing. Preferably, the rear slide defines a second plurality of openings extending through a portion of the rear slide. Preferably, the rear slide comprises a plurality of bristles defining a brush. In some embodiments, the second plurality of openings comprises inconsistent spacing between adjacent openings of the second plurality of openings.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the housing comprises: a top portion, wherein the top portion includes a downward facing surface and an upward facing surface; a first end wall connected to and extending from a first longitudinal end of the top portion; a second end wall connected to and extending from a second longitudinal end of the top portion that is opposite the first longitudinal end of the top portion; a forward edge connected to and extending between the first end wall and the second end wall; a rear edge connected to and extending between the first end wall and the second end wall, the rear edge disposed on an opposite side of the housing from the forward edge; and an inlet defined by the first end wall, the forward edge, the second end wall, and the rear edge of the housing, wherein the inlet extends along first plane; wherein a height of the downward facing surface is defined from the downward facing surface of the top portion to the plane. Preferably, at least 40% of the housing along a length of the housing includes a height of the downward facing surface that is less than 8% of a length of the housing.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the housing defines a front slot disposed forward of the duct along an intended direction of use of the nozzle assembly, wherein the front slot defines a first end and a second end. Preferably, a portion of the front slide is disposed within the front slot of the housing. Preferably, the housing further comprises a first tab, and a second tab disposed at the first end of the front slot, and wherein the first tab and the second tab are disposed to retain the front slide in the front slot.

[0016] It should be noted that embodiments and features described in the context of one of the aspects of the present invention also apply to the other aspects of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a nozzle assembly. FIG. 2 shows a front isolation view of a front slide of the nozzle assembly. FIG. 3 shows a bottom view of a portion of the front slide with openings. FIG. 4 shows an isolated front view of an opening of the front slide. FIG. 5 shows a front view of a rear brush of the nozzle assembly according to a first embodiment. FIG. 6 shows a front view of the rear brush of the nozzle assembly according to a second embodiment. FIG. 7 shows a front view of the rear brush of the nozzle assembly according to a third embodiment. FIG. 8 shows a front view of the rear brush of the nozzle assembly according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 9A shows an isolated cross-section view of a first portion of a suction duct of the nozzle assembly taken along 1-1 in FIG. 1. FIG. 9B shows another isolated cross-section view of the first portion of the suction duct of the nozzle assembly taken along 1-1 in FIG. 1. FIG. 10 shows a cross-section view of the nozzle assembly taken along 2-2 in FIG. 2. FIG. 11 shows a cross-section view of the nozzle assembly taken along 3-3 in FIG. 2. FIG. 12 shows a cross-section view of the nozzle assembly taken along 4-4 in FIG. 2 with the nozzle assembly shown in a first angular position. FIG. 13 shows another cross-section view of the nozzle assembly taken along 4-4 in FIG. 2 with the nozzle assembly shown in a second angular position. FIG. 14 shows a side view of a wheel of the nozzle assembly. FIG. 15 shows a side view of a first front slide according to an embodiment. FIG. 16 shows a side view of a second front slide according to an embodiment. FIG. 17 shows a side view of a third front slide according to an embodiment. FIG. 18A shows a partial perspective view of a bottom of the housing according to an embodiment. FIG. 18B shows another partial perspective view of the bottom of the housing with the front slide installed according to an embodiment. FIG. 19 shows a bottom view of the nozzle assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] In existing vacuum nozzles, the shape and contouring of the duct inside the nozzle can lead to inefficiencies in suction performance. Other aspects of existing vacuum nozzles can lead to decreases in suction performance of the nozzle. For example, existing vacuum nozzles can include issues with relative positioning and movement of front and / or rear slides attached to the housing causing poor dirt collection and inconsistent clearance heights as an angle of inclination between the nozzle the cleaning surface is changed.

[0019] The inventor has recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved with existing attachment nozzles is providing higher levels of suction through changes to a profile of the nozzle housing, to a pattern of openings in one or both slides of the nozzle, to a shape of the front slide, to a contour of openings in one or both of the slides, and to placement of wheels of the nozzle.

[0020] The proposed disclosure presents a new design for a vacuum nozzle with a curved profile with a gradual curvature upwards towards a suction tube attachment location. The curved profile of the housing allows for a small distance to the floor thereby increasing the velocity of the air moving through the nozzle. Also, the housing profile is smooth without any abrupt transitions enabling minimization of pressure loss and noise generation resulting in a more efficient and quieter machine.

[0021] A pattern of openings in one or both of the front and rear slides is also proposed. As will be discussed below, the openings in the front and / or slide(s) or brush(es) allow larger debris to pass to the suction duct. Additionally, various curved side profiles are provided for the front slide enabling a consistent distance between the floor and one of the slides across a range of angles of nozzle inclination. In addition, the disclosure presents a wheel placement of the nozzle assembly so that the sealing effect between the nozzle (e.g., front slide of the nozzle assembly) and the floor is not sensitive to small changes in an angle between the vacuum tube and the floor (e.g., nozzle inclination).

[0022] A controlled vertical distance between the front slide and the floor can be critical for performance of the nozzle. To overcome any problems with geometrical imperfections (like unevenness) from the housing of the nozzle, the front slide can be vertically mounted to the nozzles close to the two wheels. Such a mounting can allow an even front slide to move freely in a vertical direction over most of a length of the front slide and thus to be parallel to the floor regardless of any imperfections in the nozzle assembly. In an embodiment, the housing of the nozzle assembly can be formed with a thermoplastic polymer material, such as polypropylene. In another embodiment, the front slide can be formed with a thermoplastic polymer material, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene.

[0023] The features and characteristics of the present disclosure, alone and in combination, provide for a vacuum nozzle with an improved suction efficiency as well as improvements in power consumption, overall efficiency, and debris removal rates.

[0024] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of nozzle assembly 10 including housing 12 (with first end 14, first endwall 16, second end 18, second endwall 20, front edge 22, and top surface 24), wheels 26, neck 28, and front slide 30 (with front surface 32 and openings 34). FIG. 1 also shows cleaning surface 36 positioned beneath nozzle assembly 10.

[0025] Nozzle assembly 10 is a cleaning head for a vacuum cleaner. In an embodiment, nozzle assembly 10 is configured to connect to a component (e.g., a hose or tube) of a vacuum system (not shown in FIGS. 1-18) via neck 28 of housing 12. Housing 12 is a casing of solid material. In an embodiment, housing 12 is a single piece of solid material. In another embodiment, housing 12 can be made up of a plurality of pieces adhered or otherwise affixed to one another. First end 14 and second end 18 are opposite longitudinal ends of housing 12. First endwall 16 and second endwall 20 are walls or flat surfaces disposed on opposite ends of housing 12 from each other. Front edge 22 is a side of housing 12 towards a front of housing 12 (with the front of housing 12 facing out of the page as shown in FIG. 1). Top surface 24 is an outer surface of housing 12 facing in an upward direction (oriented upward as shown in FIG. 1).

[0026] Wheels 26 are circular rolling elements rotatably connected to housing 12. In an embodiment, wheels 26 are disposed partially in slots formed in housing 12. Wheels 26 are rotatably attached to housing 12. Neck 28 is a hollow shaft or tube connected to and extends from housing 12. In an embodiment, neck 28 and housing 12 are of the same piece of material. In another embodiment, neck 28 can be a separate component from housing 12 and can be configured for movement relative to a portion of housing 12.

[0027] Front slide 30 is a wiper or guide. In an embodiment, front slide 30 can include a material with a uniform or semi-uniform hardness. In other embodiments, front slide 30 can include a brush with a plurality of bristles. Front surface 32 is a forward-facing surface of front slide 30. Openings 34 are gaps or spaces disposed in and / or along portions of front slide 30.

[0028] Cleaning surface 36 is a surface for cleaning by nozzle assembly 10. In an embodiment, cleaning surface 36 can include different types of floors, such as soft or hard material types. In other embodiment, cleaning surface 36 can instead by a different surface besides a floor such as a wall, a ceiling, or other type of surface to be cleaned.

[0029] Nozzle assembly 10 is used in combination with a vacuum device for cleaning a surface, such as cleaning surface 36. Housing 12 provides structural reinforcement for the components included in and attached to housing 12. Housing 12 also defines a duct extending therethrough and through which debris laden air is drawn into the vacuum device connected to nozzle assembly 10. First endwall 16 and second endwall 20 enclose portions of housing 12 to provide containment of air passing through housing 12.

[0030] Wheels 26 engage with cleaning surface 36 to enable relevant movement between cleaning surface 36 and nozzle assembly 10. In an embodiment, wheels 26 maintain housing 12 at a height above cleaning surface 36. In another embodiment, a centerline axis of wheels 26 is a pivot point about which nozzle assembly can be rotated. In this way, an inclination angle between nozzle assembly 10 and cleaning surface 36 can be adjusted (see e.g., FIGS. 13 and 14).

[0031] Neck 28 provides a conduit through which debris laden air travels from housing 12 to the vacuum device connected to nozzle assembly 10 In an embodiment, neck 28 can include one or more pivots points allowing housing 12 to articulate and rotate relative to a hose or tube attached to neck 28.

[0032] Front slide 30 can be disposed at a front or forward portion of housing 12. For example, front slide 30 can be mounted in a portion of housing 12 that is near front edge 22 of housing 12. Additionally or alternatively, front slide 30 can be mounted in and / or to housing 12 in a front slot (see e.g., FIGS. 18A-18B) defined by housing that is positioned near a forward end of housing 12.

[0033] During operation of the vacuum device and nozzle assembly 10, front slide 30 can come into contact with debris upon cleaning surface 36 and position the debris in alignment with one or more openings of openings 34. In an embodiment, front slide 30 can interact with cleaning surface 36 to create a fluidic seal (or a partial fluidic seal) between cleaning surface 36 and front slide 30. For example, a bottom edge of front slide 30 can be positioned in close proximity to cleaning surface 36 to minimize a clearance height between front slide 30 and cleaning surface 36. In this way, an amount of air velocity drawn across front slide 30, and a resulting suction power across front slide 30, can be increased.

[0034] Openings 34 provide channels through which relatively large pieces of debris can pass to enter into housing 12 and be exposed to the suction in the duct inside of housing 12. Additionally, with front slide including a hard material, nozzle assembly 10 with front slide 30 can be used on carpet floors in addition to hard floors.

[0035] FIG. 2 shows a front isolation view of front slide 30 of nozzle assembly 10. Here, some of openings 34 of front slide 30 are labeled openings 34A-34D. In an embodiment, openings 34 can include a uniform height and width. In other embodiments, openings 34 can include uniform, nonuniform, or a combination thereof of heights and widths. Front slide 30 is also shown to include top edge 38 and bottom edge 40. In this embodiment, openings 34 are disposed along bottom edge 40 of front slide 30.

[0036] Front slide 30 defines a plurality of openings 34 disposed therethrough. In an embodiment, the plurality of openings 34 are positioned to define inconsistent spacing between adjacent openings 34. Additionally or alternatively, openings 34 can be distributed with inconsistent spacing between adjacent openings 34. Likewise, openings 34 (e.g., spacings 34A-34D) can be arranged at inconsistent spacing between adjacent openings 34. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of openings 34 are positioned such that at least two spaces in between any two adjacent openings of the plurality of openings 34 are inconsistent in size.

[0037] For example, a first one of openings 34 (e.g., opening 34A) is located at a first end of front slide 30. In an embodiment, another of openings 34 can be located at an opposite end of front slide 30 from opening 34A. Opening 34B is disposed adjacent to opening 34A and is positioned a distance from opening 34A. For example, opening 34B is disposed adj acent to opening 34A such that there is not an opening 34 positioned between opening 34A and opening 34B. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 34A and opening 34B. Opening 34A and opening 34B are separated by first distance D 1 . In an embodiment, first distance D 1 extends from an edge of opening 34A nearest to opening 34B to an edge of opening 34B nearest to opening 34A.

[0038] Opening 34C is disposed adjacent to opening 34B and is positioned a distance from opening 34B. For example, opening 34C is disposed adjacent to opening 34B such that there is not an opening 34 positioned between opening 34B and opening 34C. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 34B and opening 34C. Opening 34B and opening 34C are separated by second distance D 2 . In an embodiment, second distance D 2 extends from an edge of opening 34B nearest to opening 34C to an edge of opening 34C nearest to opening 34B.

[0039] Opening 34D is disposed adjacent to opening 34C and is positioned a distance from opening 34C. For example, opening 34D is disposed adjacent to opening 34C such that there is not an opening 34 positioned between opening 34C and opening 34D. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 34C and opening 34D. Opening 34C and opening 34D are separated by third distance D 3 . In an embodiment, third distance D 3 extends from an edge of opening 34C nearest to opening 34D to an edge of opening 34D nearest to opening 34C.

[0040] In an embodiment, first distance D 1 is unequal to second distance D 2 and second distance D 2 is unequal to third distance D 3 . First distance D 1 can also be unequal to third distance D 3 . Additionally or alternatively, an alternating pattern of second distance D 2 and third distance D 3 can continue along a portion of front slide 30.

[0041] With the inconsistent spacing between openings 34, front slide 30 can more effectively collect debris with uneven distribution patterns along a cleaning surface (e.g., cleaning surface 36). Additionally, front slide 30 can be replaced with other front slides with different patterns of openings 34 based on a situation or a different use case such as a type of floor, types of debris, type of debris distribution pattern or density, size of debris, etc.

[0042] FIG. 3 shows a bottom view of a portion of front slide 30 with openings 34B and 34C. As shown in FIG. 3, an upward direction can depict a forward direction of operation of nozzle assembly 10.

[0043] Opening 34B is defined by inlet 42, outlet 44, first sidewall 46, and second sidewall 48. Inlet 42 and outlet 44 are defined by portions of front slide 30. For example, inlet 42 is defined by first sidewall 46 and second sidewall 48 at a forward end of opening 34B (e.g., a forward direction being in an upward direction as shown in FIG. 3). Likewise, outlet 44 is defined by first sidewall 46 and second sidewall 48 at a reward end of opening 34B (e.g., a rearward direction being in a downward direction as shown in FIG. 3).

[0044] In an embodiment, at least one of first sidewall 46 and second sidewall 48 of opening 34B are curved such that inlet 42 is larger than outlet 44. For example, inlet 42 can include a larger surface area than outlet 44.

[0045] In this embodiment, opening 34B is shown to include a first curvature profile. In the first curvature profile shown in FIG. 3, first sidewall 46 includes a curvature oriented concave away from second sidewall 48. Likewise, in the first curvature profile shown in FIG. 3, second sidewall 48 includes a curvature oriented concave away from first sidewall 46. In another embodiment, opening 34B (or another opening 34) can include a second curvature profile different than the first curvature profile shown in FIG. 3. For example, first sidewall 46 can include a curvature oriented concave towards second sidewall 48, second sidewall 48 can include a curvature oriented concave towards first sidewall 46, or a combination thereof.

[0046] In another embodiment, one or more of openings 34 may include a partial or fully cylindrical or elliptical configuration with inlet 42 forming a forward end of the cylindrical opening and outlet 44 forming a rearward end of the cylindrical opening. In such an embodiment, the cylindrical or elliptical opening can define at least one of an inlet, an outlet, a first sidewall, a second sidewall, or a combination thereof. In yet another embodiment, one or both of first sidewall 46 and second sidewall 48 can include a straight non-curved profile.

[0047] The larger surface area of inlet 42, in combination with each of inlets 42 of other openings 34 along front slide 30, provides a larger aggregate surface area of all of openings 34 across front surface 32 of front slide 30. In this way, large amounts of larger sized debris are allowed to pass through openings 34 and into a duct portion of housing 12.

[0048] The curvature profile of first sidewall 46 and second sidewall 48 provide curved sidewalls that create a curved nozzle for increased air velocity into and through openings 34 and into housing 12 of nozzle assembly 10. The resulting increase in air velocity into and through openings 34 from the curved profile of openings 34 increases a rate of debris collection of nozzle assembly 10.

[0049] FIG. 4 shows an isolated front view of opening 34B of front slide 30. Inlet height H I is a height of inlet 42 (shown in FIG. 3, omitted in FIG. 4 for clarity) that extends from a bottom of first sidewall 46 and a bottom of second sidewall 48 to a top of first sidewall 46 and a bottom of second sidewall 48 at front surface 32 of front slide 30. Inlet width W I is a width of inlet 42 that extends from first sidewall 46 to second sidewall 48 at front surface 32 of front slide 30. Outlet height Ho is a height of outlet 44 that extends from a bottom of first sidewall 46 and a bottom of second sidewall 48 to a top of first sidewall 46 and a bottom of second sidewall 48 at a rear surface of front slide 30. Outlet width Wo is a width of outlet 44 that extends from first sidewall 46 to second sidewall 48 at the rear surface of front slide 30.

[0050] In an embodiment, inlet height H I of inlet 42 is larger than outlet height Ho of outlet 44. In another embodiment, inlet width W I of inlet 42 is larger than outlet width Wo of outlet 44. In yet another embodiment, inlet height H I of inlet 42 can be larger than outlet height Ho of outlet 44 and inlet width W I of inlet 42 can be larger than outlet width Wo of outlet 44. In such embodiments, a surface area of inlet 42 is larger than a surface area of outlet 44.

[0051] Similar to the effect of the curved profile of first sidewall 46 and second sidewall 48 discussed with respect to FIG. 3, the larger surface area of inlet 42 compared to the surface area of outlet 44 creates a nozzle for increased air velocity into and through openings 34 and into housing 12 of nozzle assembly 10. The resulting increase in air velocity into and through openings 34 from the surface area differential between inlet 42 and outlet 44 of openings 34 increases a rate of debris collection of nozzle assembly 10.

[0052] FIG. 5 shows a front view of rear brush 50 of nozzle assembly 10 according to a first embodiment. Rear brush 50 is shown to include openings 52A-H, first end 54, second end 56, and midpoint 58.

[0053] Rear brush 50 is a brush element with bristles. In another embodiment, rear brush 50 can be a rear slide element including a solid material similar to front slide 30. Rear brush 50 is configured to mount to a rear end of housing 12 on an opposite side of housing 12 from front slide 30. Rear brush 50 can include length L.

[0054] Rear brush 50 includes and defines a plurality of openings 52. In this embodiment, rear brush includes eight openings 52 (e.g., openings 52A-52H). A pattern of openings 52 can be a mirror image across midpoint 58 of rear brush 50. Openings 52 can be evenly distributed, unevenly distributed, or a combination thereof across rear brush 50. First end 54 and second end 56 are opposite ends of rear brush 50. Midpoint 58 is positioned at a center of rear brush 50 and is equidistant from both first end 54 and second end 56.

[0055] At least opening 52A of openings 52 can include height H. In an embodiment, height H of opening 52A can be less than 7 millimeters, such as for example 6 to 4 millimeters, such as for example 5 millimeters. Opening 52A can be located at first distance D 1 from first end 54 of rear brush 50. In an embodiment, each of openings 52A-52H can include a uniform height H. In other embodiments, height H of each opening 52A-52H can be non-uniform.

[0056] At least opening 52A of openings 52 can include width W. In an embodiment, width W of opening 52A can be less than 10 millimeters, such as for example 5 to 9 millimeters, such as for example 6 to 8 millimeters, such as for example 7 millimeters. In an embodiment, each of openings 52A-52H can include a uniform width W. In other embodiments, width W of each opening 52A-52H can be non-uniform.

[0057] Opening 52A is located at first distance D 1 from first end 54 of rear brush 50. In an embodiment, first distance D 1 extends from an edge of opening 52A nearest to first end 54 to first end 54. First distance D 1 can be 9 to 15 millimeters, such as for example 10 to 13 millimeters, such as for example 11 to 12 millimeters.

[0058] Opening 52B is disposed adjacent to opening 52A and is positioned a distance from opening 52A. For example, opening 52B is disposed adj acent to opening 52A such that there is not an opening 52 positioned between opening 52A and opening 52B. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 52A and opening 52B. Opening 52A and opening 52B are separated by second distance D 2 . In an embodiment, second distance D 2 extends from an edge of opening 52A nearest to opening 52B to an edge of opening 52B nearest to opening 52A. Second distance D 2 can be 35 to 45 millimeters, such as for example 38 to 42 millimeters, such as for example 40 to 41 millimeters.

[0059] Opening 52C is disposed adjacent to opening 52B and is positioned at third distance D 3 from opening 52B. For example, opening 52C is disposed adjacent to opening 52B such that there is not an opening 52 positioned between opening 52B and opening 52C. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 52B and opening 52C. Opening 52B and opening 52C are separated by third distance D 3 . In an embodiment, third distance D 3 extends from an edge of opening 52B nearest to opening 52C to an edge of opening 52C nearest to opening 52B. Third distance D 3 can be 20 to 30 millimeters, such as for example 22 to 28 millimeters, such as for example 25 to 26 millimeters.

[0060] Opening 52D is disposed adjacent to opening 52C and is positioned at fourth distance D 4 from opening 52C. For example, opening 52D is disposed adjacent to opening 52C such that there is not an opening 52 positioned between opening 52C and opening 52D. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 52C and opening 52D. Opening 52C and opening 52D are separated by fourth distance D 4 . In an embodiment, fourth distance D 4 extends from an edge of opening 52C nearest to opening 52D to an edge of opening 52D nearest to opening 52C. Fourth distance D 4 can be 5 to 11 millimeters, such as for example 6 to 10 millimeters, such as for example 8 millimeters.

[0061] In an embodiment, first distance D 1 can be unequal to second distance D 2 , to third distance D 3 , and / or to fourth distance D 4 . Second distance D 2 can also be unequal to third distance D 3 and / or to fourth distance D 4 . Third distance D 3 can also be unequal to fourth distance D 4 . Additionally or alternatively, an alternating pattern of second distance D 2 and third distance D 3 can continue along a portion of rear brush 50.

[0062] With the inconsistent spacing between openings 52, rear brush 50 can more effectively collect debris with uneven distribution patterns along a cleaning surface (e.g., cleaning surface 36). Additionally, rear brush 50 can be replaced with other slides or brushes with different patterns of openings 52 based on a situation or a different use case such as a type of floor, types of debris, type of debris distribution pattern or density, size of debris, etc.

[0063] FIG. 6 shows a front view of rear brush 60 according to a second embodiment. Rear brush 60 is shown to include openings 62A-H, first end 64, second end 66, and midpoint 68.

[0064] Rear brush 60 is a brush element with bristles. In another embodiment, rear brush 60 can be a rear slide element including a solid material similar to front slide 30. Rear brush 60 is configured to mount to a rear end of housing 12 on an opposite side of housing 12 from front slide 30. Rear brush 60 can include length L. Rear brush 60 includes and defines a plurality of openings 62. In this embodiment, rear brush includes six openings 62 (e.g., openings 62A-62F). A pattern of openings 62 can be a mirror image across midpoint 68 of rear brush 60. Openings 62 can be evenly distributed, unevenly distributed, or a combination thereof across rear brush 60.

[0065] First end 64 and second end 66 are opposite ends of rear brush 60. Midpoint 68 is positioned at a center of rear brush 60 and is equidistant from both first end 64 and second end 66. At least opening 62A of openings 62 can include height H. In an embodiment, height H of opening 62A can be less than 7 millimeters, such as for example 6 to 4 millimeters, such as for example 5 millimeters. Opening 62A can be located at first distance D 1 from first end 64 of rear brush 60. In an embodiment, each of openings 62A-62F can include a uniform height H. In other embodiments, height H of each opening 62A-62F can be non-uniform.

[0066] At least opening 62A of openings 62 can include width W. In an embodiment, width W of opening 62A can be less than 10 millimeters, such as for example 5 to 9 millimeters, such as for example 6 to 8 millimeters, such as for example 7 millimeters. In an embodiment, each of openings 62A-62F can include a uniform width W. In other embodiments, width W of each opening 62A-62F can be non-uniform.

[0067] Opening 62A is located at first distance D 1 from first end 64 of rear brush 60. In an embodiment, first distance D 1 extends from an edge of opening 62A nearest to first end 64 to first end 64. First distance D 1 can be 9 to 16 millimeters, such as for example 10 to 13 millimeters, such as for example 11 to 12 millimeters.

[0068] Opening 62B is disposed adjacent to opening 62A and is positioned a distance from opening 62A. For example, opening 62B is disposed adj acent to opening 62A such that there is not an opening 62 positioned between opening 62A and opening 62B. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 62A and opening 62B. Opening 62A and opening 62B are separated by second distance D 2 . In an embodiment, second distance D 2 extends from an edge of opening 62A nearest to opening 62B to an edge of opening 62B nearest to opening 62A. Second distance D 2 can be 36 to 46 millimeters, such as for example 38 to 42 millimeters, such as for example 40 to 41 millimeters.

[0069] Opening 62C is disposed adjacent to opening 62B and is positioned at third distance D 3 from opening 62B. For example, opening 62C is disposed adjacent to opening 62B such that there is not an opening 62 positioned between opening 62B and opening 62C. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 62B and opening 62C. Opening 62B and opening 62C are separated by third distance D 3 . In an embodiment, third distance D 3 extends from an edge of opening 62B nearest to opening 62C to an edge of opening 62C nearest to opening 62B. Third distance D 3 can be 20 to 30 millimeters, such as for example 22 to 28 millimeters, such as for example 24 to 26 millimeters.

[0070] Opening 62D is disposed adjacent to opening 62C and is positioned at fourth distance D 4 from opening 62C. For example, opening 62D is disposed adjacent to opening 62C such that there is not an opening 62 positioned between opening 62C and opening 62D. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 62C and opening 62D. Opening 62C and opening 62D are separated by fourth distance D 4 . In an embodiment, fourth distance D 4 extends from an edge of opening 62C nearest to opening 62D to an edge of opening 62D nearest to opening 62C. Fourth distance D 4 can be 90 to 115 millimeters, such as for example 95 to 110 millimeters, such as for example 100 to 105 millimeters.

[0071] In an embodiment, first distance D 1 can be unequal to second distance D 2 , to third distance D 3 , and / or to fourth distance D 4 . Second distance D 2 can also be unequal to third distance D 3 and / or to fourth distance D 4 . Third distance D 3 can also be unequal to fourth distance D 4 . Additionally or alternatively, an alternating pattern of second distance D 2 and third distance D 3 can continue along a portion of rear brush 60.

[0072] Similar to rear brush 50, rear brush 60 can more effectively collect debris with uneven distribution patterns along a cleaning surface (e.g., cleaning surface 36). Additionally, rear brush 60 can be replaced with other slides or brushes with different patterns of openings 62 based on a situation or a different use case such as a type of floor, types of debris, type of debris distribution pattern or density, size of debris, etc.

[0073] FIG. 7 shows a front view of rear brush 70 according to a third embodiment. Rear brush 70 is shown to include openings 72A-H, first end 74, second end 76, and midpoint 78.

[0074] Rear brush 70 is a brush element with bristles. In another embodiment, rear brush 70 can be a rear slide element including a solid material similar to front slide 30. Rear brush 70 is configured to mount to a rear end of housing 12 on an opposite side of housing 12 from front slide 30. Rear brush 70 can include length L.

[0075] Rear brush 70 includes and defines a plurality of openings 72. In this embodiment, rear brush includes four openings 72 (e.g., openings 72A-72D). A pattern of openings 72 can be a mirror image across midpoint 78 of rear brush 70. Openings 72 can be evenly distributed, unevenly distributed, or a combination thereof across rear brush 70. First end 74 and second end 76 are opposite ends of rear brush 70. Midpoint 78 is positioned at a center of rear brush 70 and is equidistant from both first end 74 and second end 76.

[0076] At least opening 72A of openings 72 can include height H. In an embodiment, height H of opening 72A can be less than 7 millimeters, such as for example 6 to 4 millimeters, such as for example 5 millimeters. Opening 72A can be located at first distance D 1 from first end 74 of rear brush 70. In an embodiment, each of openings 72A-72D can include a uniform height H. In other embodiments, height H of each opening 72A-72D can be non-uniform.

[0077] At least opening 72A of openings 72 can include width W. In an embodiment, width W of opening 72A can be less than 10 millimeters, such as for example 5 to 9 millimeters, such as for example 6 to 8 millimeters, such as for example 7 millimeters. In an embodiment, each of openings 72A-72D can include a uniform width W. In other embodiments, width W of each opening 72A-72D can be non-uniform.

[0078] Opening 72A is located at first distance D 1 from first end 74 of rear brush 70. In an embodiment, first distance D 1 extends from an edge of opening 72A nearest to first end 74 to first end 74. First distance D 1 can be 9 to 17 millimeters, such as for example 10 to 13 millimeters, such as for example 11 to 12 millimeters.

[0079] Opening 72B is disposed adjacent to opening 72A and is positioned a distance from opening 72A. For example, opening 72B is disposed adj acent to opening 72A such that there is not an opening 72 positioned between opening 72A and opening 72B. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 72A and opening 72B. Opening 72A and opening 72B are separated by second distance D 2 . In an embodiment, second distance D 2 extends from an edge of opening 72A nearest to opening 72B to an edge of opening 72B nearest to opening 72A. Second distance D 2 can be 37 to 47 millimeters, such as for example 38 to 42 millimeters, such as for example 40 to 41 millimeters.

[0080] Opening 72C is disposed adjacent to opening 72B and is positioned at third distance D 3 from opening 72B. For example, opening 72C is disposed adjacent to opening 72B such that there is not an opening 72 positioned between opening 72B and opening 72C. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 72B and opening 72C. Opening 72B and opening 72C are separated by third distance D 3 . In an embodiment, third distance D 3 extends from an edge of opening 72B nearest to opening 72C to an edge of opening 72C nearest to opening 72B. Third distance D 3 can be 150 to 180 millimeters, such as for example 160 to 170 millimeters, such as for example 165 to 170 millimeters.

[0081] In an embodiment, first distance D 1 can be unequal to second distance D 2 and / or to third distance D 3 . Second distance D 2 can also be unequal to third distance D 3 . Additionally or alternatively, an alternating pattern of second distance D 2 and third distance D 3 can continue along a portion of rear brush 70.

[0082] Similar to rear brushes 50, and 60, rear brush 70 can more effectively collect debris with uneven distribution patterns along a cleaning surface (e.g., cleaning surface 36). Additionally, rear brush 70 can be replaced with other slides or brushes with different patterns of openings 72 based on a situation or a different use case such as a type of floor, types of debris, type of debris distribution pattern or density, size of debris, etc.

[0083] FIG. 8 shows a front view of rear brush 80 according to a fourth embodiment. Rear brush 80 is shown to include openings 82A-H, first end 84, second end 86, and midpoint 88.

[0084] Rear brush 80 is a brush element with bristles. In another embodiment, rear brush 80 can be a rear slide element including a solid material similar to front slide 30. Rear brush 80 is configured to mount to a rear end of housing 12 on an opposite side of housing 12 from front slide 30. Rear brush 80 can include length L.

[0085] Rear brush 80 includes and defines a plurality of openings 82. In this embodiment, rear brush includes nine openings 82 (e.g., openings 82A-82I). A pattern of openings 82 can be a mirror image across midpoint 88 of rear brush 80. Openings 82 can be evenly distributed, unevenly distributed, or a combination thereof across rear brush 80. First end 84 and second end 86 are opposite ends of rear brush 80. Midpoint 88 is positioned at a center of rear brush 80 and is equidistant from both first end 84 and second end 86. In an embodiment, rear brush 80 can include opening 82E located on midpoint 88.

[0086] At least opening 82A of openings 82 can include height H. In an embodiment, height H of opening 82A can be less than 8 millimeters, such as for example 2 to 4 millimeters, such as for example 3 millimeters. Opening 82A can be located at first distance D 1 from first end 84 of rear brush 80. In an embodiment, each of openings 82A-82I can include a uniform height H. In other embodiments, height H of each opening 82A-82I can be non-uniform.

[0087] At least opening 82A of openings 82 can include width W. In an embodiment, width W of opening 82A can be less than 10 millimeters, such as for example 5 to 9 millimeters, such as for example 6 to 8 millimeters, such as for example 7 millimeters. In an embodiment, each of openings 82A-82I can include a uniform width W. In other embodiments, width W of each opening 82A-82I can be non-uniform.

[0088] Opening 82A is located at first distance D 1 from first end 84 of rear brush 80. In an embodiment, first distance D 1 extends from an edge of opening 82A nearest to first end 84 to first end 84. First distance D 1 can be 9 to 18 millimeters, such as for example 10 to 13 millimeters, such as for example 11 to 12 millimeters.

[0089] Opening 82B is disposed adjacent to opening 82A and is positioned a distance from opening 82A. For example, opening 82B is disposed adj acent to opening 82A such that there is not an opening 82 positioned between opening 82A and opening 82B. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 82A and opening 82B. Opening 82A and opening 82B are separated by second distance D 2 . In an embodiment, second distance D 2 extends from an edge of opening 82A nearest to opening 82B to an edge of opening 82B nearest to opening 82A. Second distance D 2 can be 38 to 48 millimeters, such as for example 38 to 42 millimeters, such as for example 40 to 41 millimeters.

[0090] Opening 82C is disposed adjacent to opening 82B and is positioned at third distance D 3 from opening 82B. For example, opening 82C is disposed adjacent to opening 82B such that there is not an opening 82 positioned between opening 82B and opening 82C. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 82B and opening 82C. Opening 82B and opening 82C are separated by third distance D 3 . In an embodiment, third distance D 3 extends from an edge of opening 82B nearest to opening 82C to an edge of opening 82C nearest to opening 82B. Third distance D 3 can be 20 to 30 millimeters, such as for example 22 to 28 millimeters, such as for example 28 to 26 millimeters.

[0091] Opening 82D is disposed adjacent to opening 82C and is positioned at fourth distance D 4 from opening 82C. For example, opening 82D is disposed adjacent to opening 82C such that there is not an opening 82 positioned between opening 82C and opening 82D. Put another way, there are no intervening openings 34 positioned between opening 82C and opening 82D. Opening 82C and opening 82D are separated by fourth distance D 4 . In an embodiment, fourth distance D 4 extends from an edge of opening 82C nearest to opening 82D to an edge of opening 82D nearest to opening 82C. Fourth distance D 4 can be 8 to 11 millimeters, such as for example 6 to 10 millimeters, such as for example 8 millimeters.

[0092] In an embodiment, first distance D 1 can be unequal to second distance D 2 , to third distance D 3 , and / or to fourth distance D 4 . Second distance D 2 can also be unequal to third distance D 3 and / or to fourth distance D 4 . Third distance D 3 can also be unequal to fourth distance D 4 . Additionally or alternatively, an alternating pattern of second distance D 2 and third distance D 3 can continue along a portion of rear brush 80.

[0093] With the inconsistent spacing between openings 82, rear brush 80 can more effectively collect debris with uneven distribution patterns along a cleaning surface (e.g., cleaning surface 36). Additionally, rear brush 80 can be replaced with other slides or brushes with different patterns of openings 82 based on a situation or a different use case such as a type of floor, types of debris, type of debris distribution pattern or density, size of debris, etc.

[0094] As presented herein, rear brushes 50, 60, 70, and 80 and their corresponding descriptions can also be slides of solid material capable of being used in place of or in combination with rear brushes 50, 60, 70, and 80. Additionally or alternatively, the configurations described with respect to front slide 30 and rear brushes 50, 60, 70, and 80 (e.g., patterns of openings 34A-34D, 54A-54H, 64A-64F, 74A-74D, and 84A-84I) may be incorporated with either front slide 30, rear brush 50, or a combination thereof.

[0095] FIG. 9A shows an isolated cross-section view of nozzle assembly 10 taken along 1-1 in FIG. 1. FIG. 9A shows nozzle assembly 10 including housing 12 (with first end 14, second end 18, top surface 24, top portion 90, inlet 92, downward surface 94, and duct 96), and neck 28. FIG. 9A additionally identifies length L, first portion A, second portion B, third portion C, fourth portion D, and fifth portion E of housing 12, as well as plane 98 defined by a bottom of housing 12. In FIG. 9A, wheels 26 have been omitted for clarity.

[0096] Top portion 90 of housing 12 is a solid portion of housing 12 positioned above duct 96. Top portion 90 defines top surface 24 (e.g., an upward facing surface as shown in FIG. 9A) and downward surface 94 (e.g., a downward facing surface as shown in FIG. 9A).

[0097] Inlet 92 is a downward facing opening and is defined by a bottom of housing 12. In an embodiment, inlet 92 can include a rectangular shape with a first dimension oriented from left-to-right as shown in FIG. 9A and a second dimension oriented into and out of the page as shown in FIG. 9A. Inlet 92 is in fluid communication with neck 28 via duct 96. Inlet 92 extends along and parallel with plane P defined by a bottom surface of housing 12.

[0098] Duct 96 is defined by housing 12 and is a fluidic channel or passage. Duct 96 is fluidly connected to inlet 92 and to neck 28. In an embodiment, duct 96 can include height H extending vertically from points along downward surface 94 to plane 98. Alternatively, height H can extend from vertically from points along downward surface 94 to cleaning surface 36.

[0099] During operation, plane 98 may be level with cleaning surface 36. In other embodiments, plane 98 may be positioned at a distance from cleaning surface 36. For example, a radius and relative mounting position of wheels 26 can position plane 98 a distance from cleaning surface 36. In an embodiment, a distance from cleaning surface 36 to plane 98 defined by housing 12 can be from 2 to 16 millimeters, such as for example 4 to 12 millimeters, such as for example 6 to 10 millimeters.

[0100] Housing 12 can define length L extending from first end 14 to second end 18 of housing 12 (as shown from left-to-right in FIG. 9A). In an embodiment, length L can be 250 to 350 millimeters, such as for example 275 to 325 millimeters, such as for example 290 to 310 millimeters, such as for example 295 to 305 millimeters.

[0101] First portion A of housing 12 is a portion of housing 12 extending from first end 14 toward a center of housing 12 and reaching a near edge of portion B. In an embodiment, first portion A (as measured from left-to-right in FIG. 9A) can be 3% to 8% of length L of housing 12, such as for example 4% to 7% of length L of housing 12, such as for example approximately 6% of length L of housing 12. In an embodiment, height H (e.g., distance from downward surface 94 to plane 98) of first portion A can be constant and can be less than 2% of length L, such as for example equal to or less than 1% of length L, such as for example height H can be 0 mm from plane 98.

[0102] Second portion B is a portion of housing 12 extending from an edge of first portion A towards a center of housing 12 and reaching an edge of third portion C. In an embodiment, second portion B (as measured from left-to-right in FIG. 9A) can be 5% to 10% of length L of housing 12, such as for example 6% to 9%, of length L of housing 12, such as for example approximately 7.5% of length of housing 12. In an embodiment, height H of second portion B can vary from 0 mm from a first end of second portion B to a second end of second portion B by up to 1% of length L of housing 12, such as for example by up to 0.7% of length L of housing 12. Downward surface 94 of portion B can be wholly or partially concave.

[0103] Third portion C is a portion of housing 12 extending from an edge of second housing B towards a center of housing 12 and reaching an edge of fourth portion D. In an embodiment, third portion C (as measured from left-to-right in FIG. 9A) can be 6% to 12% of length L of housing 12, such as for example 7% to 11% of length L of housing 12, such as for example approximately 9% of length L of housing 12. In an embodiment, height H of third portion C can be constant and can be less than 5% of length L, such as for example equal to or less than 1% of length L, such as for example height H can be less than 0.7% of length L from plane 98. Downward surface 94 of portion C can be wholly or partially convex.

[0104] Fourth portion D is a portion of housing 12 extending from an edge of third portion C towards a center of housing 12 and reaching an edge of fifth portion E. In an embodiment, fourth portion D (as measured from left-to-right in FIG. 9A) can be 16% to 26% of length L of housing 12, such as for example 18% to 24% of length L of housing 12, such as for example 20% to 22% of length L of housing 12, such as for example approximately 21% of length L of housing 12. In an embodiment, height H of fourth portion D can increase from interface 100 (located at an interface between third portion C and fourth portion D) to interface 102 (located at an interface between fourth portion D and fifth portion E) to a height of up to 9% of length L of housing 12, such as for example up to 8% of length L of housing 12, such as for example up to approximately 7.5% of length L of housing 12.

[0105] Fifth portion E is a portion of housing 12 extending from interface 102 towards a center of housing 12 as shown in FIG. 9A. In an embodiment, fifth portion E (as measured from left-to-right in FIG. 9A) can be 2% to 6% of length L of housing 12, such as for example 3% to 5% of length L of housing 12, such as for example approximately 4% of length of housing 12. Slots 104 are openings define by housing 12 and are configured to receive and to partially contain wheels 26 (not shown in FIG. 9A).

[0106] In an embodiment, a configuration of housing 12 can be symmetric about a midpoint of housing 12, with a first side (left half of housing 12 as shown in FIG. 9A) of housing 12 comprising first portion A, second portion B, third portion C, fourth portion D., and fifth portion E. Likewise, a second side (right half of housing 12 as shown in FIG. 9A) of housing 12 opposite the first side, can also include first through fifth portions equivalent or approximately equivalent in size to first portion A, second portion B, third portion C, fourth portion D, and fifth portion E. In such an embodiment, corresponding first through fifth portions of the second side of housing 12 can include dimensions (e.g., height or length) equivalent to or approximately equivalent to dimensions of the first side.

[0107] FIG. 9B shows another isolated cross-section view of nozzle assembly 10 taken along 1-1 in FIG. 1. FIG. 9B identifies first portion A L , second portion B L , and third portion C L of a first side of housing 12 (left side as shown in FIG. 9B) and first portion A R , second portion B R , and third portion C R of a second side of housing 12 (right side as shown in FIG. 9B).

[0108] First portion A L , second portion B L , and third portion C L of the first side of housing 12 and first portion A R , second portion B R , and third portion C R of the second side of housing 12 can add up to at least 40% of length L of housing 12, such as for example at least 42% of length L of housing 12, such as for example at least 43% of length L of housing 12. Height H of each of first portion A, second portion B, and third portion C can be less than 10% of length L of housing, such as for example less than 9% of length L of housing, such as for example less than 8% of length L of housing. Additionally or alternatively, at least 40% of housing 12 along length L of housing 12 includes height H 1 (of downward surface 94) that is less than 8% of length L of housing 12.

[0109] Due to the size of height H across length L of housing 12, nozzle assembly 10 is shaped to increase air velocity across housing 12 and through duct 96. The effect of duct 96 being shaped to create high air velocity across length L of nozzle assembly 10 adds to the improved suction efficiency. In this way, nozzle assembly 10 is optimized for improved suction efficiency, even at low suction powers from a fan of a vacuum connected to nozzle assembly 10. Additionally, more debris can be drawn into the moving air thereby increasing the cleaning capacity of nozzle assembly 10 in response to the increase in air velocity.

[0110] FIG. 10 shows a cross-section view of nozzle assembly 10 taken along 2-2 in FIG. 9A. FIG. 10 shows housing 12 (with front edge 22, downward surface 94, duct 96, rear edge 106, and rear slot 108), wheel 26, neck 28, front slide 30, and rear brush 50.

[0111] In an embodiment, an upper portion of front slide 30 is disposed upward (e.g., towards an up direction as shown in FIG. 10) into and / or within a portion of housing 12. Additionally or alternatively, a lower portion of front slide 30 extends downward (e.g., in a down direction as shown in FIG. 10) from housing 12.

[0112] In FIG. 10, an embodiment of a cross-sectional configuration of duct 96 is provided. Duct 96 can define a profile including two upper corners on the front and rear ends of downward surface 94. Downward surface 94 may be approximately parallel with at least one of plane 98, a cleaning surface, or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, downward surface 94 can be tilted towards or away from front edge 22 of housing 12. In another embodiment, a shape of the profile of duct 96 can include at least one of a curved shape, a single corner, or a combination thereof.

[0113] In an embodiment, height H 2 of duct 96 (e.g., a distance from downward surface 94 to plane 98) at the location of 2-2 (as shown in FIG. 9A) can be up to 1% of length L of housing 12 (e.g., length L of housing 12 as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B), such as for example by up to 0.7% of length L of housing 12. Housing 12 can include width W H . Duct 96 can include width W D2 (e.g., representative of a width of duct 96 at a location of 2-2 along length L and / or along portion C of housing 12 as shown in FIG. 9A). In an embodiment, width W D2 can be less than height H 2 of duct 96 at the location of 2-2.

[0114] FIG. 11 shows a cross-section view of nozzle assembly 10 taken along 3-3 in FIG. 9A. FIG. 11 shows housing 12 (with front edge 22, downward surface 94, duct 96, rear edge 106, and rear slot 108), wheel 26, neck 28, front slide 30, and rear brush 50.

[0115] Duct 96 of housing 12 can define front sidewall 110 and back sidewall 112. In an embodiment, at least one of front sidewall 110 and back sidewall 112 can extend in a direction along length L of housing 12 (e.g., into and out of the page as shown in FIG. 11)

[0116] In an embodiment, height H 3 of duct 96 (e.g., a distance from downward surface 94 to plane 98) at the location of 3-3 (as shown in FIG. 9A) can be up to 9% of length L of housing 12 (e.g., length L of housing 12 as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B), such as for example up to 8% of length L of housing 12, such as for example up to approximately 7.5% of length L of housing 12.

[0117] Duct 96 can include width W D3 (e.g., representative of a width of duct 96 at a location of 3-3 along length L and / or along portion C of housing 12 as shown in FIG. 9A). In an embodiment, width W D2 can be greater than width W D3 . Additionally or alternatively, width W D3 of duct 96 can be less than height H 3 of duct 96.

[0118] In an embodiment, front sidewall 110 can define a curvature that is oriented concave away from (or convex towards) duct 96 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11). In another embodiment, front sidewall 110 can be flat. In yet another embodiment, front sidewall 110 can define a curvature that is oriented convex away from (or concave towards) duct 96 (see e.g., FIGS. 12 and 13).

[0119] FIG. 12 shows a cross-section view of nozzle assembly 10 taken along 4-4 in FIG. 2 with nozzle assembly 10 shown in a first angular position. FIG. 12 shows nozzle assembly 10 (with housing 12 (defining duct 96, plane 98, rear slot 108, and front sidewall 110), neck 28, front slide 30 (with front surface 32), and rear brush 50) and cleaning surface 36. FIG. 13 shows a cross-section view of nozzle assembly 10 taken along 4-4 in FIG. 2 with nozzle assembly 10 shown in a second angular position. FIGS. 12 and 13 are discussed in tandem.

[0120] Front slide 30 can include front surface 32 which faces in a forward direction (e.g., to the right as shown in FIG. 12) of housing 12. In an embodiment, front surface 32 can include a curved shape. For example, front surface 32 can include a curved shape that generally curves in a same direction as a curved shape of wheel 26. Front slide 30 can also include tip 116 disposed on an end of front slide 30 that is distal from an end of front slide that connects to housing 12.

[0121] In an embodiment, a portion of rear brush 50 is disposed inside of a portion of rear slot 108 of housing 12. Additionally or alternatively, rear brush 50 can be partially disposed within rear slot 108 such that rear brush 50 is capable of moving within rear slot 108. For example, during different modes of operation of nozzle assembly 10, rear brush 50 can occupy one or more angular positions relative to rear slot 108 of housing 12.

[0122] In FIG. 12, nozzle assembly 10 is shown as moving in forward direction F (e.g., to the right in FIG. 12). In this embodiment, plane 98 of housing 12 is approximately parallel with cleaning surface 36. In FIG. 13, nozzle assembly 10 is shown as moving in backward direction B (e.g., to the left in FIG. 13). In this embodiment, plane 98 of housing 12 can define angle θ extending between plane 98 and plane Pcs defining an imaginary plane parallel to cleaning surface 36. For example, angle θ can define an inclination angle or an angle of inclination including an angle between the floor (e.g., cleaning surface 36) and a plane (e.g., plane 98) defined by a downward facing opening (e.g., inlet 92, see e.g., FIG. 9A) defined by housing 12. In an embodiment, angle θ can be greater than or equal to 0° as nozzle assembly 10 is drawn backwards along backward direction B.

[0123] In an embodiment, front slide 30 can be disposed relative to housing 12 to provide a small gap between tip 116 of front slide 30 and cleaning surface 36 as angle θ changes during operation of nozzle assembly 10. Additionally or alternatively, front slide 30 is disposed to remain out of contact with the floor (e.g., cleaning surface) as an inclination angle (e.g., angle θ) of nozzle assembly 10 changes during operation of nozzle assembly 10.

[0124] For example, the curved shape of front slide 30 enables front slide 30 to remain at a consistent or uniform distance from cleaning surface 36 as angle θ is adjusted during operation. The consistent or uniform distance between front surface 32 of front slide 30 and cleaning surface 36 allows consistent sealing during operation of nozzle assembly 10. The curved shape of front slide 30 also prevents collisions between front surface 32 and cleaning surface 36.

[0125] Additionally or alternatively, during operation of nozzle assembly 10, at least one of wheel 26, front slide 30, rear brush 50, or a combination thereof remains in contact with cleaning surface 36. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of front slide 30, rear brush 50, or a combination thereof forms a sealing interface with cleaning surface 36. As nozzle assembly 10 moves along forward direction F (e.g., to the right in FIG. 12), rear brush 50 can be pushed into a first angular position by cleaning surface 36 (e.g., first angular position as shown in FIG. 12). For example, a friction force caused by the relative motion between cleaning surface 36 and rear brush 50 acts upon rear brush 50 which causes a bottom end (e.g., downward end as shown in FIG. 12) of rear brush 50 to be pushed towards a rear of housing 12 (e.g., to a left side of housing 12 as shown in FIG. 12).

[0126] As nozzle assembly 10 moves along backward direction B (e.g., to the left in FIG. 13), rear brush 50 can be pushed into a second angular position by cleaning surface 36 (e.g., second angular position as shown in FIG. 13). For example, a friction force caused by the relative motion between cleaning surface 36 and rear brush 50 acts upon rear brush 50 which causes a bottom end (e.g., downward end as shown in FIG. 13) of rear brush 50 to be pushed towards a front of housing 12 (e.g., to a front side of housing 12 as shown in FIG. 13).

[0127] As the angular position of rear brush 50 changes during maneuvering of housing 12 (e.g., shifting from first angular position to second angular position), rear brush 50 maintains contact with cleaning surface 36. For example, a size of a cross-section shape of rear slot 108 is larger than a cross-section shape of top end 118 of rear brush 50. In an embodiment, rear slot 108 is sized to allow top end 118 of rear brush 50 (e.g., top of rear brush 50 as shown in FIGS. 12 & 13) space to move around inside of rear slot 108. As rear brush 50 maintains contact with cleaning surface 36, rear brush 50 maintains a sealing interface with cleaning surface 36 which, in combination with front slide 30, increases a capacity to maintain negative pressure within housing 12 to effectively draw in dirt and particulate.

[0128] FIG. 14 shows an isolated side view of wheel 26 of nozzle assembly 10. In an embodiment, wheel 26 shown in FIG. 14 can be either of wheels 26 shown in FIG. 1. Wheel 26 defines center 120 and radius Rw of curvature. For example, center 120 can extend axially relative to wheel 26 to form a centerline axis. Additionally or alternatively, radius Rw can refer to a wheel radius of wheel 26.

[0129] For example, radius Rw of curvature of wheel 26 extends from center 120 to an outer edge of wheel 26. As will be discussed with respect to FIGS. 15-17, Rw of curvature of wheel 26 can be larger than a radius of curvature of front surface 114 of front slide 30.

[0130] FIG. 15 shows an isolated side view of front slide 30 of nozzle assembly 10. Front slide 30 includes and / or defines front surface 114, tip 116, and rear surface 122. Front surface 114 can define a curvature about center C (e.g., center of curvature). In an embodiment, front surface 114 and rear surface 122 of front slide 30 can join together to form a point at tip 116. In an embodiment, front surface 114 and rear surface 122 of front slide 30 join together at an apex to form tip 116.

[0131] Front surface 114 of front slide 30 can include a constant curvature defined by radius R FS of curvature. Radius R FS of curvature of front surface 114 can be defined by a distance between center C and points along front surface 114 of front slide 30. In another embodiment, front surface 114 of front slide 30 can include an inconsistent or variable curvature.

[0132] In an embodiment, center C of front surface 114 (e.g., the center of curvature of front surface 114) can be coaxial to the centerline axis of wheel 26 (e.g., the centerline axis of wheel 26 represented by center 120 of wheel 26 as shown in FIG. 14).

[0133] In an embodiment, radius R FS of curvature of front surface 114 can be less than radius Rw of curvature of wheel 26 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 14). For example, with radius R FS of curvature of front surface 114 less than radius R W of curvature of wheel 26, front surface 114 of front slide 30 will continue to form a gap or space between front slide 30 and cleaning surface 36 as the inclination angle of housing 12 (e.g., angle θ shown in FIGS. 12-13) is adjusted during operation.

[0134] In this way, the gap or space between front slide 30 and cleaning surface 36 as the inclination angle of housing 12 is adjusted during operation allows consistent sealing during operation of nozzle assembly 10. The curved shape of front slide 30 also prevents collisions between front surface 114 and cleaning surface 36 or particulate disposed on cleaning surface 36.

[0135] FIG. 16 shows an isolated side view of front slide 30' of nozzle assembly 10. Front slide 30' includes and / or defines front surface 114, tip 116, and rear surface 122. Front surface 114 defines a curvature about center C, with center C defining an imaginary center of curvature of front surface 114.

[0136] In an embodiment, at least one of front surface 114, rear surface 122, or a combination thereof can terminate before front surface 114 and rear surface 122 intersect. In this way, front slide 30' defines end 124. In an embodiment, end 124 can be extend between front surface 114 and rear surface 122 of front slide 30'. In an embodiment, end 124 can form a flat, planar surface. Additionally or alternatively, end 124 can extend parallel to a top end (e.g., towards a top as shown in FIG. 16) of front slide 30'. In another embodiment, end 124 can define at least one of a concave surface, a convex surface, or a combination thereof.

[0137] FIG. 17 shows an isolated side view of front slide 30" of nozzle assembly 10. Front slide 30" includes and / or defines front surface 114, tip 116, and rear surface 122. Front surface 114 defines a curvature about center C, with center C defining an imaginary center of curvature of front surface 114. In an embodiment, at least one of front surface 114, rear surface 122, or a combination thereof can terminate before front surface 114 and rear surface 122 intersect. In this way, front slide 30" defines end 124. In an embodiment, end 124 can be extend between front surface 114 and rear surface 122 of front slide 30". In an embodiment, end 124 can form a flat, planar surface. Additionally or alternatively, end 124 can extend perpendicular to a top end (e.g., towards a top as shown in FIG. 16) of front slide 30". In another embodiment, end 124 can define at least one of a concave surface, a convex surface, or a combination thereof.

[0138] FIG. 18A shows a partial perspective view of a bottom of housing 12. In FIG. 18A, housing 12 is shown with front slide 30 removed from housing 12.

[0139] Housing 12 includes and defines front slot 126. Similar to rear slot 108, front slot 126 extend along a length of housing 12 from first end 14 (see e.g., FIG. 1) of housing 12 to second end 18 of housing 12. In an embodiment, front slot 126 can be positioned in front (e.g., towards forward direction F as shown in FIG. 18A) of duct 96 of housing 12.

[0140] In an embodiment, housing 12 can include first tab 128 and second tab 130 that extend towards each other and cover a portion of front slot 126. First tab 128 and second tab 130 can be positioned at second end 18 of housing 12. Additionally or alternatively, first end 14 of housing 12 can also include first and second tabs extending towards each other and cover a portion of front slot 126 at first end 14 of housing 12. In an embodiment, first tab 128 and second tab 130 can be disposed adjacent to wheel 26.

[0141] FIG. 18B shows another partial perspective view of the bottom of housing 12 with front slide 30 installed according to an embodiment. In FIG. 18B, housing 12 is shown with front slide 30 installed in front slot 126 of housing 12.

[0142] In an embodiment, when front slide 30 is installed in housing 12, front slide 30 can be mounted to housing 12 at two locations on housing 12. For example, front slide 30 can be mounted to housing 12 at opposite ends of front slide 30 at opposite ends of front slot 126. Additionally or alternatively, front slide 30 can be held in front slot 126 by first tab 128 and second tab 130 on second end 18 of housing 12 and by corresponding tabs on first end 14 of housing 12.

[0143] In an embodiment, along the length of front slot 126, front slide 30 does not include additional mounting points besides being mounted to first end 14 and second end 18 of housing 12. In this way, front slide 30 can be fixed vertically over a limited portion of the length of front slide 30. A benefit of front slide 30 being mounted to housing 12 at opposite ends of housing 12 (e.g., close to wheels 26) is that a consistent distance between front slide 30 and the floor (e.g., cleaning surface 36) can be maintained.

[0144] FIG. 19 shows a bottom view of 10 nozzle assembly with front slide 30 mounted in front slot 126. Housing 12 can include first tab 128A and second tab 130A. First tab 128A and second tab 130A are disposed on second end 18 of housing 12. Housing 12 can also include first tab 128B and second tab 130B. First tab 128B and second tab 130B can be disposed on first end 14 of housing 12.

[0145] In an embodiment, front slide 30 is positioned partly within front slot 126. Additionally or alternatively, a first end of front slide 30 can be retained by first tab 128A and second tab 130A. Likewise, a second end of front slide 30 can be retained by first tab 128B and second tab 130B. For example, first tab 128A, second tab 130A, first tab 128B, and second tab 130B can extend partially across front slot 126. The ends of front slide 30 can be slid into a first position where first tab 128A and second tab 130A hold the first end of front slide 30 in place relative to housing 12 and where first tab 128B and second tab 130B hold the second end of front slide 30 in place relative to housing 12.Various Notes & Examples

[0146] A nozzle assembly for use with a vacuum device includes a housing, a neck, and a front slide. The housing defines a duct extending therethrough. The neck is connected to and extends from a portion of the housing, wherein the neck is configured to connect to the vacuum device. The front slide is mounted to a forward edge of the housing. The front slide is positioned to remain out of contact with the floor as an inclination angle of the nozzle assembly changes during operation of the nozzle assembly. The inclination angle of the nozzle assembly comprises an angle between the floor and a plane defined by a downward facing opening defined by the housing.

[0147] Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own or can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or more of the other examples.

[0148] Optionally, the nozzle assembly can further comprise a wheel pivotably attached to the housing, wherein the wheel can be disposed to rotate about a centerline axis of the wheel and relative to the housing. The front slide can comprise a front surface with a first curvature. The first curvature of the front surface of the front slide can include a first radius of curvature. The first radius of curvature of the front surface of the front slide can be equal to a distance from the front surface of the front slide to the centerline axis of the wheel.

[0149] Optionally, the nozzle assembly can further comprise a wheel pivotably attached to the housing. The wheel can be disposed to rotate about a centerline axis of the wheel and relative to the housing. The wheel can define a wheel radius. The front slide can comprise a front surface with a first curvature. The first curvature of the front surface of the front slide can include a first radius of curvature, wherein the first radius of curvature can be greater than the wheel radius of the wheel.

[0150] Optionally, the nozzle assembly can further comprise a wheel rotatably attached to the housing, wherein the wheel can be disposed to rotate about a centerline axis of the wheel and relative to the housing, wherein a center of curvature of the front surface can be coaxial to the centerline axis of the wheel.

[0151] Optionally, the front slide can further comprise a front surface and a rear surface disposed opposite from the front surface. The front surface and the rear surface of the front slide can join together at an apex.

[0152] Optionally, the front slide can define a first plurality of openings disposed in and along a length of the front slide. At least one opening of the first plurality of openings can be defined by at least one of an inlet, an outlet, a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a combination thereof.

[0153] Optionally, at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall of the at least one opening are curved such that the inlet of the opening can be larger than the outlet of the opening.

[0154] Optionally, a height of the inlet can be larger than a height of the outlet, a width of the inlet can be larger than a width of the outlet, or a combination thereof.

[0155] Optionally, the front slide can define a first plurality of openings disposed therethrough, wherein the plurality of openings can be distributed with inconsistent spacing between adjacent openings.

[0156] Optionally, a rear slide connected to and extending from a rear edge of the housing, wherein the rear slide can define a second plurality of openings extending through a portion of the rear slide, wherein the rear slide can comprise a plurality of bristles defining a brush.

[0157] Optionally, the second plurality of openings can comprise inconsistent spacing between adjacent openings of the second plurality of openings.

[0158] Optionally, the housing can comprise a top portion, a first endwall, a second endwall, a forward edge, a rear edge, and an inlet. The top portion can include a downward facing surface and an upward facing surface. The first endwall can be connected to and / or extend from a first longitudinal end of the top portion. The second endwall can be connected to and / or extend from a second longitudinal end of the top portion that can be opposite the first longitudinal end of the top portion. The forward edge can be connected to and / or extend between the first endwall and the second endwall. The rear edge can be connected to and / or extend between the first endwall and the second endwall. The rear edge can be disposed on an opposite side of the housing from the forward edge. The inlet can be defined by the first endwall, the forward edge, the second endwall, and / or the rear edge of the housing. The inlet can extend along first plane. A height of the downward facing surface can be defined from the downward facing surface of the top portion to the plane. At least 40% of the housing along a length of the housing can include a height of the downward facing surface that can be less than 8% of a length of the housing.

[0159] Optionally, the housing can define a front slot disposed forward of the duct along an intended direction of use of the nozzle assembly, wherein the front slot can define a first end and a second end. A portion of the front slide can be disposed within the front slot of the housing. The housing can further comprise a first tab and a second tab disposed at the first end of the front slot. The first tab and the second tab are disposed to retain the front slide in the front slot.

[0160] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the disclosure can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventor also contemplates examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventor also contemplates examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0161] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of "at least one" or "one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0162] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the disclosure should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

1. A nozzle assembly (10) for use with a vacuum device for cleaning a surface (36), the nozzle assembly (10) comprising: a housing (12) defining a duct (96) extending therethrough; a neck (28) connected to and extending from a portion of the housing (12), wherein the neck (28) is configured to connect to the vacuum device; and a front slide (30, 30') mounted to a forward portion of the housing (12); wherein the front slide (30, 30') is positioned to remain out of contact with the surface as an inclination angle (θ) of the nozzle assembly (10) changes during operation of the nozzle assembly (10), wherein the inclination angle (θ) of the nozzle assembly (10) comprises an angle between the surface (36) and a plane (98) defined by a downward facing opening (92) defined by the housing (12).

2. The nozzle assembly (10) of claim 1, further comprising: a wheel (26) pivotably attached to the housing (12), wherein the wheel (26) is disposed to rotate about a centerline axis of the wheel (26) and relative to the housing (12); wherein the front slide (30, 30') comprises: a front surface (32, 114) with a first curvature; wherein the first curvature of the front surface (32, 114) of the front slide (30, 30') includes a first radius (RFS) of curvature; and wherein the first radius (RFS) of curvature of the front surface (32, 114) of the front slide (30, 30') is equal to a distance from the front surface (32, 114) of the front slide (30, 30') to the centerline axis of the wheel (26).

3. The nozzle assembly (10) of claim 1, further comprising: a wheel (26) pivotably attached to the housing (12), wherein the wheel (26) is disposed to rotate about a centerline axis of the wheel (26) and relative to the housing (12); wherein the wheel (26) defines a wheel radius (Rw); and wherein the front slide (30, 30') comprises: a front surface (32, 114) with a first curvature, wherein the first curvature of the front surface (32, 114) of the front slide (30, 30') includes a first radius (RFS) of curvature, wherein the first radius (RFS) of curvature is greater than the wheel radius (Rw) of the wheel (26).

4. The nozzle assembly (10) of any of the claims 1 to 3, further comprising a wheel (26) rotatably attached to the housing (12), wherein the wheel (26) is disposed to rotate about a centerline axis of the wheel (26) and relative to the housing (12), wherein a center (120) of curvature of the front surface (32, 114) is coaxial to the centerline axis of the wheel (26).

5. The nozzle assembly (10) of any of the claims 1 to 4, wherein: the front slide (30, 30') further comprises a front surface (32, 114) and a rear surface (122) disposed opposite from the front surface (32, 114); wherein the front surface (32, 114) and the rear surface (122) of the front slide (30, 30') join together at an apex (116).

6. The nozzle assembly (10) of any of the claims 1 to 5: wherein the front slide (30, 30') defines a first plurality of openings (34, 34B, 34C, 52, 62, 72, 82) disposed in and along a length of the front slide (30, 30'); and wherein at least one opening (34, 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D, 52, 52A, 52B, 52C, 52D, 62, 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D, 72, 72A, 72B, 72C, 82, 82A, 82B, 82C, 82D, 82E) of the first plurality of openings (34, 34B, 34C, 52, 62, 72, 82) is defined by at least one of an inlet (42, 92), an outlet (44), a first sidewall (112) (46), a second sidewall (112) (48), and a combination thereof.

7. The nozzle assembly (10) of claim 6, wherein at least one of the first sidewall (112) (46) and the second sidewall (112) (48) of the at least one opening (34, 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D, 52, 52A, 52B, 52C, 52D, 62, 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D, 72, 72A, 72B, 72C, 82, 82A, 82B, 82C, 82D, 82E) are curved such that the inlet (42) of the opening (34, 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D, 52, 52A, 52B, 52C, 52D, 62, 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D, 72, 72A, 72B, 72C, 82, 82A, 82B, 82C, 82D, 82E) is larger than the outlet (44) of the opening (34, 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D, 52, 52A, 52B, 52C, 52D, 62, 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D, 72, 72A, 72B, 72C, 82, 82A, 82B, 82C, 82D, 82E).

8. The nozzle assembly (10) of claim 6 or 7, wherein a height (HI) of the inlet (42) is larger than a height (Ho) of the outlet (44), a width (WI) of the inlet (42, 92) is larger than a width (Wo) of the outlet (44), or a combination thereof.

9. The nozzle assembly (10) of any of the claims 1 to 8, wherein the front slide (30, 30') defines a first plurality of openings (34, 34B, 34C, 52, 62, 72, 82) disposed therethrough, wherein the plurality of openings (34, 34B, 34C, 52, 62, 72, 82) is distributed with inconsistent spacing between adjacent openings (34, 34B, 34C, 52, 62, 72, 82).

10. The nozzle assembly (10) of any of the claims 1 to 9, further comprising a rear slide (50) connected to and extending from a rear edge (106) of the housing (12), wherein the rear slide (50) defines a second plurality of openings (34, 34B, 34C, 52, 62, 72, 82) extending through a portion of the rear slide (50), wherein the rear slide (50) comprises a plurality of bristles defining a brush.

11. The nozzle assembly (10) of claim 10, wherein the second plurality of openings (34, 34B, 34C, 52, 62, 72, 82) comprises inconsistent spacing between adjacent openings (34, 34B, 34C, 52, 62, 72, 82) of the second plurality of openings (34, 34B, 34C, 52, 62, 72, 82).

12. A nozzle assembly (10) according to any of the claims 1 to 11, wherein the housing (12) comprises: a top portion (24), wherein the top portion (24) includes a downward facing surface (94) and an upward facing surface (24); a first end wall (16) connected to and extending from a first longitudinal end (14) of the top portion (24); a second end wall (20) connected to and extending from a second longitudinal end (18) of the top portion (24) that is opposite the first longitudinal end (14) of the top portion (24); a forward edge (22) connected to and extending between the first end wall (16) and the second end wall (20); a rear edge (106) connected to and extending between the first end wall (16) and the second end wall (20), the rear edge (106) disposed on an opposite side of the housing (12) from the forward edge (22); and an inlet (42, 92) defined by the first end wall (16), the forward edge, the second end wall (20), and the rear edge (106) of the housing (12), wherein the inlet (92) extends along first plane (98); wherein a height of the downward facing surface is defined from the downward facing surface of the top portion (90) to the plane (98); wherein at least 40% of the housing (12) along a length of the housing (12) includes a height (H) of the downward facing surface (94) that is less than 8% of a length (L) of the housing (12).

13. A nozzle assembly (10) according to any of the claims 1 to 12: wherein the housing (12) defines a front slot (126) disposed forward of the duct (96) along an intended direction (F) of use of the nozzle assembly (10), wherein the front slot (126) defines a first end (14) and a second end (18); wherein a portion of the front slide (30, 30') is disposed within the front slot (126) of the housing (12); wherein in the housing (12) further comprises: a first tab (128, 128A, 128B) and a second tab (130, 130A, 130B) disposed at the first end (14) of the front slot (126), wherein the first tab (128, 128A, 128B, 128A) and the second tab (130, 130A, 130B) are disposed to retain the front slide (30, 30') in the front slot (126).

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