A selectively flexible pole of a surface cleaning apparatus

Abstract

A selectively flexible pole 16 of a surface cleaning apparatus 10 comprises a tube 60 having a flexible duct section 62, a first rigid duct section (64, fig 1), a second rigid duct section 66, and a slidable member 50 wherein the first rigid duct section is connected to a first side (65, fig 4) of the flexible duct section and the second rigid duct section is connected to a second side (67, fig 4) of the flexible duct section to define a fluid flow pathway (68, fig 4) through the tube. The flexible duct section being configured to enable relative movement between the first and second rigid duct sections whilst maintaining the fluid flow pathway through the tube, wherein further the slidable member is slidably located on the tube and slidable between a first position and a second position, and wherein in the first position the slidable member prevents relative movement between the first and second rigid ducts and in the second position the slidable member enables relative movement between the first and second rigid ducts. Also disclosed is a method of using a surface cleaning apparatus to clean a surface and a flexible pole having a biasing member.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present disclosure relates to a selectively flexible pole of a surface cleaning apparatus. Aspects of the invention relate to a selectively flexible pole of a surface cleaning apparatus, a surface cleaning apparatus wand incorporating the flexible pole, a surface cleaning apparatus, a method of using a surface cleaning apparatus to clean a surface or volume obstructed by an obstacle, and an additional selectively flexible pole of a surface cleaning apparatus. BACKGROUND Conventional surface cleaning apparatuses (often also referred to as vacuum cleaners) may typically have a rigid wand that connects the suction unit to the cleaning head. However, such a configuration has limited manoeuvrability and can present difficulties in cleaning around an obstacle, such as a piece of furniture, without moving the obstacle or manipulating the surface cleaning apparatus, for example by making the whole apparatus parallel to the surface on which it is supported. Therefore, there is a need for a surface cleaning apparatus that can adapt to different cleaning situations and provide more flexibility and convenience for the user. It is at least one aim of the present invention to provide such a surface cleaning apparatus. SUMMARY Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a selectively flexible pole of a surface cleaning apparatus. Aspects of the invention relate to a selectively flexible pole of a surface cleaning apparatus, a surface cleaning apparatus wand incorporating the flexible pole, a surface cleaning apparatus, a method of using a surface cleaning apparatus to clean a surface or volume obstructed by an obstacle, and an additional selectively flexible pole of a surface cleaning apparatus as claimed in the appended claims. According an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a selectively flexible pole of a surface cleaning apparatus comprising: a tube comprising a flexible duct section, a first rigid duct section, a second rigid duct section, and a slidable member; wherein: the first rigid duct section is connected to a first side of the flexible duct section and the second rigid duct section is connected to a second side of the flexible duct section to define a fluid flow pathway through the tube; the flexible duct section being configured to enable relative movement between the first and second rigid duct sections whilst maintaining the fluid flow pathway through the tube, wherein further the slidable member is slidably located on the tube and slidable between a first position and a second position, and wherein in the first position the slidable member prevents relative movement between the first and second rigid ducts and in the second position the slidable member enables relative movement between the first and second rigid ducts. The invention provides a convenient and easily usable mechanism for a user to provide a bend in a pole or wand of a surface cleaning device for cleaning under or around obstructions. The slidable member therefore enables both a ‘straight pole / wand’ mode of operation and a second mode of operation with a ‘bent pole / wand’. The bent pole / wand mode of operation enables the user of the surface cleaning device to clean surfaces under or around obstructions in a domestic or commercial setting such as furniture, for example sofas, chairs, desks or coffee tables without the need to move said obstacle. This can advantageously be achieved utilising the sliding member without the need to bend down or arrange the pole substantially horizontal with a surface on which the surface cleaning device is supported (e.g. hard-wood floor, carpet, tiling, etc) or where the pole is utilised in an above floor cleaning wand the pole can enable the wand to be manoeuvred around difficult to access places. Optionally, the tube further comprises a biasing member and the relative movement of the first and second rigid duct sections is within a range of movement between a first configuration and a second configuration; wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the tube to the first configuration. The biasing member enables the surface cleaning device into which it is incorporated to more easily return to the first configuration, for example a straight configuration or a bent configuration. This means that less intervention is required on the behalf of the user to return the device to the first configuration. Optionally, the first rigid duct section has a first longitudinal axis and the second rigid duct section has a second longitudinal axis; and wherein in the first configuration the first and second longitudinal axes are substantially co-axial, and in the second configuration the first and second longitudinal axes are at an angle relative to each other. By providing an angle between the first and second axes there may only be a single bend in the pole. As a result, there is a decrease in any pressure losses which may occur due to multiple angles along the length of the pole. Optionally, the angle is between 0 to 90 degrees. The pole enables a relatively large range of motion to enable the user to move the device around a number of obstacles relatively easily. Alternatively, the angle may be any value between 0 to 180 degrees, 0 to 160 degrees, 0 to 140 degrees, 0 to 120 degrees, 0 to 100 degrees, 0 to 90 degrees, or 0 to 89 degrees, or 0 to 80 degrees. Whilst it may be the case that the angle may be in one direction, e.g. a ‘positive’ increase in angle in there may be some movement in the ‘negative’. As such whilst the ranges are given as absolute values there may be some movement in the opposite direction should the user require it. For example, the range may in fact be from -10 degrees to 180 degrees, -10 to 160 degrees, -10 to 140 degrees, -10 to 120 degrees, -10 to 100 degrees, -10 to 90 degrees, or-10 to 89 degrees, or-10 to 80 degrees. Alternatively, the minimum value may be any one of: -40, -30, -20, -15, -10, -5, -2, -1 degrees. Optionally, the biasing member is a constant force spring or a flat spring. The use of a spring helps to revert the joint to the first configuration without the need for substantial intervention by the user (i.e. manually manipulating the tube). A constant force spring may be a strip of material that is biased to return to its undeformed shape. When the constant force spring is stressed or loaded, the spring resists the loading force and aims to return to its rest state. The constant force spring may be curved around at least a portion of a transverse axis of the pole. A flat spring may comprise a single leaf or a plurality of leaves. The flat spring may be a strip of material that is biased to return to its undeformed shape. When the flat spring is stressed or loaded, the spring resists the loading force and aims to return to its rest state. The flat spring may be curved around at least a portion of a transverse axis of the pole. The provision of a constant force spring or flat spring provides a low volume spring which does not extend significantly in a lateral direction away from the surface of the pole. As a result, the provision of such a spring may provide a more compact arrangement. In alternative embodiments, the spring may be a leaf spring, a coiled spring, a sheet spring, an arcuate spring, a leaf spring or any other suitable spring. Optionally, the transverse cross-section of the biasing member is arcuate. The biasing member extending between the first and second rigid ducts helps to maintain the tube into the first configuration. By providing the biasing member as an arcuate biasing member it enables the flexible duct to flex in one direction in a fashion similar to a tape measure. Should the user attempt to flex the biasing member in a second direction they would be required to provide an increased force to bend the arcuate biasing member back upon itself. The arcuate biasing member has an inner face and an outer face. The inner face is the face of the biasing member which faces towards the centre of the circle of which the arcuate biasing member would form. Optionally, the biasing member is unitary with the flexible duct section. Providing a biasing member that is unitary with the flexible duct means that the two parts can be manufactured at the same time, for example via an injection moulding process or co-moulding process or overmoulding process. This may also reduce the assembly time as compared to two components being assembled. The biasing member may be made of an acetal polyoxymethylene (POM) polymer. The polymer may be a polymer blend comprising additional additives, such as a colourant and / or a filler. As the biasing member is unitary with the flexible duct there may be no space for the user to inadvertently trap or catch their fingers between the biasing member and the flexible duct during normal operation (unless the user were utilising the pole in an untended way). Alternatively, the biasing member may be manufactured separately to the flexible duct using any of the previously described injection moulding methods and then the two components may be connected together. Optionally, the biasing member extends around 5% to 50% of the perimeter of the flexible duct section. Providing a biasing member which extends only around a portion of the flexible duct provides both the biasing force but also enables the user to bend the tube easily. Optionally, the pole further comprises a locking means, wherein the locking means is configured to lock the slidable member into the first or second position. By locking the slidable member into the first position it may prevent the slidable member from moving when the user is utilising the surface cleaning device. By locking the slidable member into the second position it may prevent the slidable member from moving when the user is utilising the surface cleaning device. Optionally, the locking means is a bayonet connector arrangement. A bayonet connector arrangement provides an easy means of connecting and disconnecting the sliding member and tube. Optionally, the locking means comprises an inclined surface on one of the tube and an inner face of the slidable member respectively, wherein in use the locking of the slidable member in the first or second position is achieved by engaging the inclined surface with the other of the tube and inner face of the slidable member to form a transition fit. By providing a transition fit the user can easily disconnect and reconnect the components. Optionally, the other of the tube and slidable member comprises a complementary inclined surface, and wherein in use the lock is achieved by engaging the inclined surfaces to form a transition fit. By providing a complementary inclined surface the transition fit may be achieved more easily in use. Optionally, the inclined surface is arranged such that the inclination of the inclined surface increases from a first height to a second height axially or radially with respect to a longitudinal axis of the tube or slidable member. By providing such an arrangement the transition fit may be achieved more easily in use. Optionally, the locking means comprises an actuator and a latch, the actuator being configured to operate the latch. By providing an actuator and latch configuration the user may be able to disconnect the components more easily by actuating the actuator which may be a push button connected to the latch for example. Optionally, the actuator is located on the slidable member and the first or second ridged duct sections has a strike, and the latch is configured to engage the strike to prevent axial movement of the slidable member in the first or second position. By providing such an arrangement the slidable member and tube may be more easily connected and more securely retained together in use preventing accidental movement of the slidable member. Optionally, the locking means comprises an extension and a receiving portion, the extension being located on the slidable member and configured to move with the slidable member, the receiving portion being located on the first or second rigid duct and the receiving portion is configured to receive a portion of the extension to prevent axial movement of the slidable member. By providing such an arrangement the slidable member can be slid into engagement with the tube without any additional actions to be undertaken. Optionally, the slidable member is a slidable collar. A slidable collar provides an easy surface for the user to grip in practice. Optionally, the slidable collar extends around 60% to 100% of the perimeter of the tube. By extending around a portion or entirety of the perimeter of the tube the slidable collar may be easier to grip for the user. According to another aspect of the invention, there is described a surface cleaning apparatus wand comprising the pole according to any preceding embodiment and a surface cleaning tool connected to the first or second rigid duct section. The surface cleaning apparatus wand may be utilised with any type of vacuum cleaner, for example: a handheld vacuum cleaner, a pole vacuum cleaner, a pod vacuum cleaner, an upright vacuum cleaner, a stick vacuum cleaner, a canister vacuum cleaner, a central vacuum cleaner and a backpack vacuum cleaner. A central vacuum cleaner may be a vacuum cleaner with the vacuum cleaner motor and dirt bin located remotely with the dirt inlet port located in a port in a wall of a domestic or commercial property. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art the apparatus may be supplied with a vacuum cleaner or may be provided (e.g. sold separately) as an accessory for use with a known vacuum cleaner or a new vacuum cleaner of any type known in the art. According to a further aspect of the invention, there is described a surface cleaning apparatus comprising the pole according to any embodiment of the pole aspect or the surface cleaning apparatus wand of the previous aspect. By providing a surface cleaning apparatus with the pole or wand the surface cleaning apparatus has the advantages of that aspect and embodiments thereof. Optionally, wherein the surface cleaning apparatus is any one of: a handheld vacuum cleaner, a pole vacuum cleaner, a pod vacuum cleaner, an upright vacuum cleaner, a stick vacuum cleaner, a canister vacuum cleaner, and a central vacuum cleaner, and a backpack vacuum cleaner. According to a yet further aspect of the invention, there is described a kit of parts comprising the pole according to any embodiment of the pole aspect, or a surface cleaning apparatus wand of the surface cleaning wand aspect, or a surface cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the surface cleaning apparatus embodiment. According to an even further aspect of the invention, there is described a method of using a surface cleaning apparatus to clean a surface or volume obstructed by an obstacle, the method comprising: providing a surface cleaning apparatus having a pole and a surface cleaning tool connected to the pole, the pole comprising: a tube comprising a flexible duct section, a first rigid duct section, a second rigid duct section, and a slidable member; the first rigid duct section is connected to a first side of the flexible duct section and the second rigid duct section is connected to a second side of the flexible duct section to define a fluid flow pathway through the tube; the flexible duct is configured to enable relative movement between the first and second rigid duct sections whilst maintaining the fluid flow pathway through the tube, the slidable member is slidably located on the tube and slidable between a first position and a second position, and wherein in the first position the slidable member prevents relative movement between the first and second rigid duct sections and in the second position the slidable member enables relative movement between the first and second rigid duct sections; and the steps of: sliding the slidable member from the first position to the second position, moving the first and second rigid duct sections relative to each other, manoeuvring the surface cleaning tool around the obstacle to clean a surface or volume obstructed by said obstacle. The method provides a convenient means to clean around an obstacle in a commercial or domestic setting, which can be used whilst the surface cleaning apparatus is in on and use (in other words, the surface cleaning apparatus may not need to be switched off to move the rigid ducts relative to each other). The method may comprise any additional feature or the pole aspect, the wand aspect or the surface cleaning apparatus aspect. According to a still further aspect of the invention, there is provided a selectively flexible pole of a surface cleaning apparatus comprising: a tube comprising a flexible duct section, a first rigid duct section, a second rigid duct section, and a biasing member; wherein: the first rigid duct section is connected to a first side of the flexible duct section and the second rigid duct section is connected to a second side of the flexible duct section to define a fluid flow pathway through the tube; the flexible duct section is configured to enable a range of movement between a first configuration and a second configuration whilst maintaining the fluid flow pathway through the tube; and wherein the biasing member is connected to the tube and is configured to bias the tube to the first configuration. The biasing member enables the surface cleaning device into which it is incorporated to more easily return to the first configuration, for example a straight configuration or a bent configuration. This means that less intervention is required on the behalf of the user to return the device to the first configuration. Optionally, the biasing member is a constant force spring or a flat spring. The use of a spring helps to revert the joint to the first configuration without the need for substantial intervention by the user (i.e. manually manipulating the tube). A constant force spring may be a strip of material that is biased to return to its undeformed shape. When the constant force spring is stressed or loaded, the spring resists the loading force and aims to return to its rest state. The constant force spring may be curved around at least a portion of a transverse axis of the pole. A flat spring may comprise a single leaf or a plurality of leaves. The flat spring may be a strip of material that is biased to return to its undeformed shape. When the flat spring is stressed or loaded, the spring resists the loading force and aims to return to its rest state. The flat spring may be curved around at least a portion of a transverse axis of the pole. The provision of a constant force spring or flat spring provides a low volume spring which does not extend significantly in a lateral direction away from the surface of the pole. As a result, the provision of such a spring may provide a more compact arrangement. In alternative embodiments, the spring may be a leaf spring, a coiled spring, a sheet spring, an arcuate spring, a leaf spring or any other suitable spring. Optionally, the transverse cross-section of the biasing member is arcuate. The biasing member extending between the first and second rigid ducts helps to maintain the tube into the first configuration. By providing the biasing member as an arcuate biasing member it enables the flexible duct to flex in one direction in a fashion similar to a tape measure. Should the user attempt to flex the biasing member in a second direction they would be required to provide an increased force to bend the arcuate biasing member back upon itself. The arcuate biasing member has an inner face and an outer face. The inner face is the face of the biasing member which faces towards the centre of the circle of which the arcuate biasing member would form. Optionally, the biasing member is unitary with the flexible duct section. Providing a biasing member that is unitary with the flexible duct means that the two parts can be manufactured at the same time, for example via an injection moulding process or co-moulding process or overmoulding process. This may also reduce the assembly time as compared to two components being assembled. The biasing member may be made of an acetal polyoxymethylene (POM) polymer. The polymer may be a polymer blend comprising additional additives, such as a colourant and / or a filler. As the biasing member is unitary with the flexible duct there is no space for the user to inadvertently trap or catch their fingers between the biasing member and the flexible duct during normal operation (unless the user were utilising the pole in an untended way). Alternatively, the biasing member may be manufactured separately to the flexible duct using any of the previously described injection moulding methods and then the two components may be connected together. Optionally, the biasing member extends around 5% to 50% of the perimeter of the flexible duct section. Providing a biasing member which extends only around a portion of the flexible duct provides both the biasing force but also enables the user to bend the tube easily. Optionally, the pole further comprises a slidable member, the slidable member is slidably located on the tube and slidable between a first position and a second position, and wherein in the first position the slidable member prevents relative movement between the first and second rigid ducts and in the second position the slidable member enables relative movement between the first and second rigid ducts. The slidable member provides a convenient and easily usable mechanism for a user to provide a bend in a pole or wand of a surface cleaning device when they so wish for cleaning under or around obstructions. The slidable member therefore enables both a ‘straight pole / wand’ mode of operation and a second mode of operation with a ‘bent pole / wand’. The bent pole / wand mode of operation enables the user of the surface cleaning device to clean surfaces under or around obstructions in a domestic or commercial setting such as furniture, for example sofas, chairs, desks or coffee tables without the need to move said obstacle. This can advantageously be achieved utilising the sliding member without the need to bend down or arrange the pole substantially horizontal with a surface on which the surface cleaning device is supported (e.g. hard-wood floor, carpet, tiling, etc) or where the pole is utilised in an above floor cleaning wand the pole can enable the wand to be manoeuvred around difficult to access places. Optionally, the pole further comprises a locking means, wherein the locking means is configured to lock the slidable member into the first or second position. By locking the slidable member into the first position it may prevent the slidable member from moving when the user is utilising the surface cleaning device. By locking the slidable member into the second position it may prevent the slidable member from moving when the user is utilising the surface cleaning device. Optionally, the locking means is a bayonet connector arrangement. A bayonet connector arrangement provides an easy means of connecting and disconnecting the sliding member and tube. Optionally, the locking means comprises an inclined surface on one of the tube and an inner face of the slidable member respectively, wherein in use the locking of the slidable member in the first or second position is achieved by engaging the inclined surface with the other of the tube and inner face of the slidable member to form a transition fit. By providing a transition fit the user can easily disconnect and reconnect the components. Optionally, the other of the tube and slidable member comprises a complementary inclined surface, and wherein in use the lock is achieved by engaging the inclined surfaces to form a transition fit. By providing a complementary inclined surface the transition fit may be achieved more easily in use. Optionally, the inclined surface is arranged such that the inclination of the inclined surface increases from a first height to a second height axially or radially with respect to a longitudinal axis of the tube or slidable member. By providing such an arrangement the transition fit may be achieved more easily in use. Optionally, the locking means comprises an actuator and a latch, the actuator being configured to operate the latch. By providing an actuator and latch configuration the user may be able to disconnect the components more easily by actuating the actuator which may be a push button connected to the latch for example. Optionally, the actuator is located on the slidable member and the first or second ridged duct sections has a strike, and the latch is configured to engage the strike to prevent axial movement of the slidable member in the first or second position. By providing such an arrangement the slidable member and tube may be more easily connected and more securely retained together in use preventing accidental movement of the slidable member. Optionally, the locking means comprises an extension and a receiving portion, the extension being located on the slidable member and configured to move with the slidable member, the receiving portion being located on the first or second rigid duct and the receiving portion is configured to receive a portion of the extension to prevent axial movement of the slidable member. By providing such an arrangement the slidable member can be slid into engagement with the tube without any additional actions to be undertaken. Optionally, the slidable member is a slidable collar. A slidable collar provides an easy surface for the user to grip in practice. Optionally, the slidable collar extends around 60% to 100% of the perimeter of the tube. By extending around a portion or entirety of the perimeter of the tube the slidable collar may be easier to grip for the user. According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is described a surface cleaning apparatus wand comprising the pole according to any preceding embodiment and / or surface cleaning tool to the first or second rigid duct section. The surface cleaning apparatus wand may be utilised with any type of vacuum cleaner, for example: a handheld vacuum cleaner, a pole vacuum cleaner, a pod vacuum cleaner, an upright vacuum cleaner, a stick vacuum cleaner, a canister vacuum cleaner, a central vacuum cleaner and a backpack vacuum cleaner. A central vacuum cleaner may be a vacuum cleaner with the vacuum cleaner motor and dirt bin located remotely with the dirt inlet port located in a port in a wall of a domestic or commercial property. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art the apparatus may be supplied with a vacuum cleaner or may be provided (e.g. sold separately) as an accessory for use with a known vacuum cleaner or a new vacuum cleaner of any type known in the art. According to a yet another further aspect of the invention, there is described a surface cleaning apparatus comprising the pole according to any embodiment of the pole aspect or the surface cleaning apparatus wand of the previous aspect. By providing a surface cleaning apparatus with the pole or wand they surface cleaning apparatus has the advantages of that aspect and embodiments thereof. Optionally, wherein the surface cleaning apparatus is any one of: a handheld vacuum cleaner, a pole vacuum cleaner, a pod vacuum cleaner, an upright vacuum cleaner, a stick vacuum cleaner, a canister vacuum cleaner, and a central vacuum cleaner, and a backpack vacuum cleaner. According to a yet even further aspect of the invention, there is described a kit of parts comprising the pole according to any embodiment of the pole aspect, or a surface cleaning apparatus wand of the surface cleaning wand aspect, or a surface cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the surface cleaning apparatus embodiment. According to an even further additional aspect of the invention, there is described a method of using a surface cleaning apparatus to clean a surface or volume obstructed by an obstacle, the method comprising: providing a surface cleaning apparatus having a pole and a surface cleaning tool connected to the pole, the pole comprising: a tube comprising a flexible duct section, a first rigid duct section, a second rigid duct section, and a biasing member; wherein: the first rigid duct section is connected to a first side of the flexible duct section and the second rigid duct section is connected to a second side of the flexible duct section to define a fluid flow pathway through the tube; the flexible duct section is configured to enable a range of movement between a first configuration and a second configuration whilst maintaining the fluid flow pathway through the tube; and wherein the biasing member is connected to the tube and is configured to bias the tube to the first configuration; and the steps of: moving the first and second rigid duct sections relative to each other from the first configuration to the second configuration, manoeuvring the surface cleaning tool around the obstacle to clean a surface or volume obstructed by said obstacle, and the biasing member biasing the tube to return to the first configuration. The method provides a convenient means to clean around an obstacle in a commercial or domestic setting, which can be used whilst the surface cleaning apparatus is in on and use (in other words, the surface cleaning apparatus may not need to be switched off to move the rigid ducts relative to each other). The method may comprise any additional feature or the pole aspect, the wand aspect or the surface cleaning apparatus aspect. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a surface cleaning apparatus having a selectively flexible pole in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, wherein a sliding member of the pole is shown at a first position on the surface cleaning apparatus; Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a main body of the surface cleaning apparatus; Figure 3 shows the surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 1 with the sliding member in a second position; Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a part of the pole of Figure 3 along a plane that lies on a longitudinal axis of the pole; Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the pole of Figure 3 perpendicular to a plane A-A shown in Figure 4; Figure 6 shows a pole in accordance with an embodiment of the invention with an optional locking mechanism; Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a pole in accordance with an embodiment of the invention with an optional locking mechanism; Figure 8a is a front-on view of a pole having a sliding member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the sliding member being at a first position on the pole; Figure 8b shows the pole of Figure 8a with the sliding member with a sliding member that is in a second position; Figure 8c shows a rear-on view of the pole of Figure 8b; Figure 8d shows a side on view of the pole of Figure 8b whereby the pole has been manipulated to induce a bend such that a first rigid duct and a second rigid duct are at an angle relative to each other; Figure 9 shows a surface cleaning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention being used to clean a surface that is obstructed by an obstacle; and Figure 10 shows a flow chart describing a method in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. DESCRIPTION Referring firstly to Figures 1 and 2, a surface cleaning apparatus is shown and is indicated generally at 10. The apparatus 10 includes a main body or housing 12, a surface cleaning tool 14 (a floorhead, in this example), an elongate pole 16 fluidly connecting the surface cleaning tool 14 to the housing 12. The surface cleaning apparatus 10 illustrated in Figure 1, is shown in a first configuration that is commonly referred to as a stick vacuum cleaner. The housing 12, in this example, is operable as a handheld surface cleaning apparatus in a second configuration shown in Figures 2 to 5, commonly known as a hand vacuum, a hand carriable vacuum, or handheld cleaning apparatus, when the pole 16 is not connected to the hosing 12. In this second configuration, the housing 12 can be used with or without the surface cleaning tool 14 connected thereto. The pole 16 may form part of a surface cleaning apparatus wand 8 as will be described in more detail below. The housing 12 supports a suction source 18. The suction source 18 includes a motor which rotates a fan to generate a suction airflow. The housing 12 includes a housing inlet 22 that is releasably connectable to the pole 16 for fluidly connecting a dirty air inlet (not shown) of the surface cleaning tool 14 with the suction source 18. The housing 12 supports a dirt separation device 20. The dirt separation device 20 includes a separator 24 for separating dirt from dirt-laden air and a dirt collection chamber 26 for receiving the separated dirt. In some embodiments, the separator 24 may be a cyclonic separator, but it will be appreciated that any suitable separator may be used in alternative embodiments. The dirt collection chamber 26 is connected to, and supported by, the housing 12. In some embodiments, the dirt collection chamber 26 may be substantially cylindrical. In alternative embodiments, it will be appreciated that any suitable shape of dirt collection chamber 26 may be used. The dirt collection chamber 26 defines an elongate axis X. The elongate axis X may, in some embodiments, be parallel to the elongate axis of the pole or wand 16. The dirt collection chamber 26 may be removable (i.e. disconnected or detached) from the housing 12, for example to facilitate emptying of the dirt collection chamber 26. In some embodiments, the dirt collection chamber 26 may be supported by the housing 12 to enable movement of the dirt collection chamber 26 relative to the housing 12. The dirt collection chamber 26 may be moveable relative to the housing 12. Put another way, the dirt collection chamber 26 may be removable from the housing 12. The dirt collection chamber 26 may be moveable relative to the housing 12 between a first position in which the dirt collection chamber 26 is connected to and supported by the housing 12 and a second position in which the dirt collection chamber is detached from the housing 12. In some embodiments, the dirt collection chamber 26 is moveable, e.g. slidable, relative to the housing 12 along an axis that is substantially parallel to the axis X. The housing 12 may support the dirt collection chamber 26 whilst it is moving from the first position to the second position. The first position refers to a state in which the dirt collection chamber 26 is retained on the housing 12 whether that be a locked state in which the device 20 is inhibited from movement relative to the housing 16, where the dirt collection chamber 26 is connected to the housing 12 and permitted to move relative to the housing 12. The second position refers to a state where the dirt collection chamber 26 is no longer supported by the housing 12 and has been removed or detached from the housing 12. This configuration may help to facilitate emptying of the dirt collection chamber, but this slidable and / or removable configuration of the dirt collection chamber 26 may be omitted in alternative embodiments. The dirt collection chamber 26 may be removed or released from the housing 12. The dirt collection chamber 26 may include an end wall or lid 30 provided at an of the dirt collection camber that is moveable between a closed position in which collection chamber 26 is closed and an open position in which the collection chamber 26 is open, for example to empty the dirt collection chamber 26. The end wall or lid 30 may be pivotally movable between its closed and open states. The dirt collection chamber 26 may include a locking device 32, e.g. in the form of a user operable button or latch, for retaining the end wall or lid 30 in its closed state. A user may operate the locking device 32, e.g. by pressing the user operable button, to release the end wall or lid 32 and allow it to move to its open state. The housing 12 may include a user graspable handle 28. The suction source 18 may be positioned forward of the user graspable handle 28. Put another way, the suction source 18 may be positioned forwardly of the handle 28. In some embodiments, there may be a space for receiving a user's hand which extends between the user graspable handle 28 and the suction source 18. The user graspable handle 28 may be arranged on an opposing side of the suction source 18 to the dirt separation device 20. Put another way, the suction source 18 may be arranged between the user graspable handle 28 and the dirt collection chamber 26 along an axis parallel to the elongate axis X of the dirt collection chamber 26. In some embodiments, the handle 28 may be arranged at a rear of the surface cleaning apparatus 10. The surface cleaning apparatus 10 includes a filter assembly 34. The filter assembly 34 is provided to clean the relatively clean air outputted by the dirt separation device 20. The filter assembly 34 is often called a pre-motor filter, and is arranged to clean air upstream of the suction source 18 prior to the air reaching the suction source 18. The pole 16 will now be described in more detail with the aid of Figures 1 and 3-10. The pole 16, in conjunction with the main body 12 and surface cleaning tool 14, is able to be used to clean (by entraining dust, dirt or other detritus in an airflow) around an obstacle 100. The pole 16 is selectively flexible and as a result may be used in both a ‘straight’ configuration and a ‘flexible’ or ‘bent’ configuration as will be described below. The selectively flexible pole 16 therefore allows the user of a surface cleaning device 10 to which the pole 16 is connected to clean areas which they may not otherwise be able to easily access. Pole 16 and selectively flexible pole 16 will be used interchangeably for brevity throughout the application. The pole 16 may form part of a surface cleaning apparatus wand 8 (shown in Figures 1, 3 and 9 connected to the main body 12). Said wand 8 may comprise additional components, such as means to connect the pole 16 to a surface cleaning apparatus 10 and / or the surface cleaning tool 14. The surface cleaning tool 14 may for example be any one of: a surface cleaning head (with or without a roller brush or agitator), a nozzle (e.g. a flat suction nozzle), a brush (e.g. comb brush, carpet brush), or any other suitable surface cleaning tool 14. The wand 8 may be removably connectable to the surface cleaning apparatus 10 and / or the surface cleaning tool 14, alternatively the wand 8 may be directly connected to the surface cleaning apparatus 10 and / or the surface cleaning tool 14. The pole 16 comprises a tube 60 with a flexible duct section 62, a first rigid duct section 64 and a second rigid duct section 66. The first rigid duct section 64 is connected to a first side 65 of the flexible duct section 62 and the second rigid duct section 66 is connected to a second side 67 of the flexible duct section 62. The first and second rigid duct sections 64, 66 and flexible duct section 62 together define a fluid flow path 68 that extends through the tube 60. The fluid flow path 68 provides a pathway for air and entrained dirt to travel along. In use, the fluid flow path 68 extends between an inlet, for example the inlet of the surface cleaning tool 14, and the suction source 18. The flexible duct section 62 enables relative movement of the first rigid duct section 64 and the second rigid duct section 66 as will be explained in more detail below. The connection between the flexible duct section 62 and one or both of the rigid duct sections 64, 66 may be continuous or contiguous. In other words the tube 60 may be unitary in design such that the three sections 62, 64, 66 are manufactured together as a single piece, for example by a single injection moulding process. Alternatively, they may be manufactured separately and connected together, for example by a polymer welding process or co-moulding process, or over moulding process. As can be seen in Figures 3 to 5 the first and second rigid ducts 64, 66 may be pipes that extend along a length of the pole 16 away from the flexible duct section 62. The first rigid duct section 64 has a longitudinal axis Y-Y. The second rigid duction section 66 has a longitudinal Z-Z. The first rigid duct section 64 may have a housing connector 94 disposed at a distal end of the first rigid duct section 64. The housing connector 94 is configured to connect to the housing 12. The connection may be a permanent connection such that the housing connector 94 is fixable connected to the housing 12 such that the housing connector 94, and by extension the pole 16 may not be disconnected from each other. Alternatively, the connection may be a releasable connection. The housing connector94 may be male orfemale and the housing may have a respective complementary female or male connector. In such a configuration, the releasable connection may be achieved by means and methods known in the art, for example by use of a bayonet fixture. In the depicted embodiment of Figure 3 there is a first rigid duct section release 90 located at the housing connector 94. The first rigid duct section release 90 is an actuator 90 and a latch, the actuator 90 is configured to operate the latch. The latch engages a strike that is located on a portion of the housing 12 which in the depicted embodiment is located radially inward of the actuator 90. For reasons of clarity, the latch and strike are not shown. When the actuator 90 is in an actuated position the latch disengages the strike to enable the removal of the housing connector 94 from the housing 12. This enables the pole 16 to be disconnected from the housing 12 for cleaning or to enable the pole 16 to be used on a different surface cleaning apparatus 10. The second rigid duct section 66 may have a surface cleaning tool connector 96 disposed at a distal end of the second rigid duct section 66. The surface cleaning tool connector 96 is configured to connect to the surface cleaning tool 14. The connection may be a permanent connection such that the surface cleaning tool connector 96 is fixable connected to the surface cleaning tool 14 such that the surface cleaning tool connector 96, and by extension the pole 16 may not be disconnected from each other. Alternatively, the connection may be a releasable connection. The surface cleaning tool connector 96 may be male or female and the surface cleaning tool 14 may have a respective complementary female or male connector. In such a configuration, the releasable connection may be achieved by means and methods known in the art, for example by use of a bayonet fixture. In the depicted embodiment of Figure 3 there is a second rigid duct section release 96 located at the surface cleaning tool connector 96. The second rigid duct section release 92 is an actuator 92 and a latch, the actuator 92 is configured to operate the latch. The latch engages a strike that is located on a portion of the surface cleaning tool 14 which in the depicted embodiment is located radially inward of the actuator 92. For reasons of clarity, the latch and strike are not shown. When the actuator 92 is in an actuated position the latch disengages the strike to enable the removal of the surface cleaning tool connector 96 from the surface cleaning tool 14. This enables the pole 16 to be disconnected from the surface cleaning tool 14 for cleaning or to enable the pole 16 to be used on a different surface cleaning tool 14, for example a nozzle, nozzle-brush, rotary brush, etc. The slidable member 50 is slidably located on the tube 60. In the embodiment depicted in the Figures 1, 3-9, the slidable member 50 is a slidable collar 50. The collar 50 extends around the whole circumference of the tube 60, however in alternative embodiments it may extend around only a portion of the perimeter of the tube 60. For example, the collar 50 may extend around 60% to 100% of the perimeter of the tube 60. The slidable member 50 is able to move between a first position (shown in Figure 1) and a second position (shown in Figure 3). In the first position the slidable member 50 prevents the relative movement of the first and second rigid sections 64, 66. In the second position the first and second rigid duct sections 64, 66 may move relative to each other as will be described below. The sliding member 50 may have a runner that is configured to fit a groove located on first rigid duct section 64. The runner and grove being configured to enable only axial movement of the sliding member 50 and prevent rotational movement of the sliding member 50. Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the tube 60 and the slidable member 50. The tube 60 in Figure 4 is in the first position. In the first position the axis Y-Y and Z-Z are co-axial as the slidable member 50 prevents the relative movement of the first and second rigid ducts 64, 66. As can be seen from the depicted embodiment, the slidable member 50 extends across the flexible duct section 62. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4 the tube 60 has an optional double wall arrangement comprising the tube 60 and an inner tube, the inner tube comprising a flexible inner duct section 63 connected to a first inner rigid duct section 61 and a second inner rigid duct section 69. The use of a double wall arrangement allows for concealing of one or more wires 72 between those components and permits an effective seal between the inner tube and the connectors and / or the sliding member 50. because there may be only two connections points (to a male connector and a female connector of the type previously described). As can be seen from Figure 4, the first inner rigid duct section 61 is located inside of the first rigid duct section 64. The first inner rigid duct section 61 may extend along the entire length of the first rigid duct section 64 or a portion of the first rigid duct section 64, alternatively the first inner rigid duct section 61 may extend beyond the length of the first rigid duct section 64 by 0 to 5 cm. Alternatively, the first inner rigid duct section 61 may extend into only a portion of the first rigid duct section 64. The flexible inner duct section 63 is located inside of the flexible duct section 62. flexible inner duct section 63 may extend along the entire length of the flexible duct section 62 or a portion of the flexible duct section 62, alternatively the flexible inner duct section 63 may extend beyond the length of the flexible duct section 62 at one or both ends of the flexible duct section 62 by 0 to 5 cm. As can be seen from Figure 4, the second inner rigid duct section 69 is located inside of the second rigid duct section 66. The second inner rigid duct section 69 may extend along the entire length of the second rigid duct section 66 or a portion of the second rigid duct section 66, alternatively the second inner rigid duct section 69 may extend beyond the length of the second rigid duct section 66 by 0 to 5 cm. Alternatively, the second inner rigid duct section 69 may extend into only a portion of the second rigid duct section 66. The flexible inner duct section 63, first inner rigid duct section 61 and second inner rigid duct section 69 may be continuous and unitary. The inner tube may form a lining, the lining being used to fluidly disconnect the fluid pathway 68 from the tube 60 and / or slidable member 50. Such an arrangement may prevent fouling of the tube 60 and / or slidable member 50 which may occur during normal use of the surface cleaning apparatus 10 when it is removing dirt from a surface 102 or volume. The double wall arrangement may further provide greater sealing along the length of the tube 60 to reduce the likelihood of air being sucked into the fluid flow pathway 68 via a sidewall of the tube 60. Alternatively, one or both of the first and second inner rigid duct sections 61 and 69 may not be rigid but may be flexible. This may aid in assembly and use whereby it is easier for the flexible inner sections 61,69 to deform to the inner surface of the ducts 64, 66 that they lie within. Alternatively, the inner tube may comprise only the flexible inner duct section 63 and extends along a portion of the tube 60. In such an embodiment the flexible inner duct section 63 may be connected to one or both of the first rigid duct section 64 and the second rigid duct section 66. The tube 60 has a biasing member 70 as shown in cross-section in Figure 4, 5 and in reverse in Figures 8c and side on in Figures 8d and 9. The biasing member 70 aids in returning tube 60 to a first configuration (e.g. straight) after the user has finished using the tube 60 in the second configuration (e.g. bent). The biasing member 70 is connected at a first end 74 to the first rigid duct section 64 and is connected at a second end 76 to the second rigid duction section 66 such that the biasing member 70 extends therebetween the two rigid duct sections 64, 66. The biasing member 70 in the depicted embodiment of Figure 4 is a constant force spring or a flat spring. The biasing member 70 is arcuate in a transverse section of the biasing member as is shown in Figure 5. The biasing member 70 may extend transversely around a portion of the flexible duct section 62. The portion may be 5% to 50% of the perimeter, or 10% to 40% of the perimeter, or 20% to 30% of the perimeter, or 25% to 33% of the perimeter, or a third or a quarter or a fifth or any subset or range defined comprising any of the previous values as the start and end points of said range. The biasing member 70 may be unitary with the flexible duct section 62. As shown in Figure 5 the tube 60 may further comprise one or more wires 72. The wires 72 may connect to an electrical contacts located at both ends of the pole 16. The wires 72 may transmit power and / or an electrical signal between a controller located in the housing 12 of the surface cleaning apparatus 10 and an electrical device located in the surface cleaning tool 14, for example an LED light, or a motor to power a rotary brush. The pole 16 may further comprise a locking means 80 configured to lock the slidable member into a first or second position. In the embodiment depicted in Figure 4 the locking means 80 comprises an extension 82 and a receiving portion 84. The extension 82 is located on the sliding member 50 and is configured to fit into the receiving portion 84 which is located on the first rigid duct section 64 of the tube 60. The extension 82 may be annular such that it extends around an inner surface of the slidable member 50. The receiving portion 84 may also be annular in such a configuration. In alternative configurations only the receiving portion 84 may be annular. The connection between the extension 82 and receiving portion 84 may be a transition fit such that a user may push the two components (slidable member 50 and first rigid duct section 64) into alignment, the transition fit maintaining the two components together by means of friction. When the user then wishes to move the slidable member 50 they may move the extension 82 out of the receiving member using a force F1 (shown in Figure 3). Whilst the depicted embodiment shows a receiving portion 84 on the first rigid duct 64 it is envisioned that the receiving portion 84 may alternatively be located on the second rigid duct section 66. In such a case, the extension 82 is located on the slidable member 50 to face the receiving portion 84 on the second rigid duct section 66. Alternatively, or additionally or optionally the pole 16 may comprise a locking means 180 as shown in Figure 6. The locking means 180 comprises an actuator 182 and a latch, the actuator 180 being configured to operate the latch. The first rigid duct section 64 has a first strike (not shown). The strike is located on the first rigid duct section 64 of the pole 16 which is radially inward of the actuator 182 in the depicted embodiment of Figure 6. The latch is configured to engage the first strike to prevent axial movement of the slidable member 50 in the first position as is shown in Figure 6. In order to move the slidable member 50 from the first position to the second position the actuator 182 may be actuated disengaging the latch from the strike enabling the user to slide the slidable member 50. In the depicted embodiment of Figure 6, the pole 16 has an optional second strike 184. The second strike 184 is located on the first rigid duct section 64 at a second position axially spaced from the first strike. The latch is configured to engage the second strike 184 to prevent axial movement of the slidable member 50 in the second position. Such an arrangement enables the slidable member 50 to be retained in the second position enabling the relative movement of the sections of tube 60. Whilst it has been described with relation to the first and optional second switches 184 being located on the first rigid duct section 64 it is envisioned that the first and optional second switches 184 may be located on the second rigid duct section 66, in such a configuration the actuator 182 is located on the slidable member 50 such that it is located more towards the second rigid duct member 66 than the first rigid duct member 64. In other words, in comparison to the depicted embodiment of Figure 6 the actuator 182 is located axially ‘downward’ on Figure 6. Figure 7 shows an alternative optional locking means 280 comprising an inclined surface 282 on the tube 60 and an inclined surface 284 on an inner face 52 of the slidable member 50. The inclined surface(s) 282, 284 are inclined from a first height to a second height axially and / or radially with respect to a longitudinal axis of the tube 60 or slidable member 50. The first height may be 0 mm to 5 mm from the surface of the tube 60 and / or inner face 52. The second height may be 1 mm to 10 mm from the surface of the tube 60 and / or the inner face 52. In use the locking of the slidable member 50 in the first or second position is achieved by engaging the inclined surface 282, 284 with the other of the tube and inner face 284, 282 of the slidable member 50 to form a transition fit. The transition fit arrangement is shown schematically in Figure 7 utilising a simplified cross-sectional view through tube 60. The manipulation of the pole 16 between a first and second configuration will now be described with reference to Figures 8a to 8d. Figure 8a shows a partially cropped close up view of the pole 16 showing tube 60 and the slidable member 50. The slidable member 50 is in the first position and the duct 60 is in the first configuration. Where the pole 16 has an optional locking means 80, 180, 280 for locking the slidable member 50 in the first position the locking means 80, 180, 280 is first actuated to unlock the slidable member 50 from the tube 60 to enable slidable movement of the slidable member 50. Where there is no locking means 80, 180, 280 the slidable member 50 may be moved without the unlocking step. Turning next to Figure 8b, the slidable member 50 has been moved from the first position to the second position by moving the slidable member 50 ‘upwards’ (in terms of the orientation of the page on which Figure 8b sits, this language is not intended to limit to any defined orientation in use) using force F1. As can be seen in Figure 8b the flexible duct section 62 has been revealed and it is no longer covered by the slidable member 50. Where the pole 16 has an optional locking means 80, 180, 280 for locking the slidable member 50 in the second position the locking means 80, 180, 280 may then be actuated to lock the slidable member 50 to the tube 60 to prevent slidable movement of the slidable member 50. Where there is no locking means 80,180, 280 the slidable member 50 may be held in place either through friction or by the user without a locking step. Figure 8c shows a rear on view of the pole 16 of Figure 8b. Figure 8c shows the biasing member 70. In Figure 8c the duct 60 is in the first configuration. Figure 8d shows a side on view of the pole 16 with the slidable member 50 in the second position and the duct 60 in the second configuration. The first and second rigid duct sections 64, 66 have been moved relative to each other by the action of force F2 which is acting along the longitudinal axis of the pole 16 (in its original straight first configuration). The slidable member 50 being located at the second position has enabled the relative movement of the two rigid duct sections 64, 66 as the slidable member 50 is not preventing their relative movement in this position. As such the tube 60 is able to move from the first configuration (straight) to the second configuration (bent). The second configuration is defined by an angle 0 between the longitudinal axes of the two rigid ducts Y-Y and Z-Z. The angle 0 between axes Y-Y and Z-Z is shown in Figure 8d. The angle may be any value between 0 to 180 degrees, 0 to 160 degrees, 0 to 140 degrees, 0 to 120 degrees, 0 to 100 degrees, 0 to 90 degrees, or 0 to 89 degrees, or 0 to 80 degrees. Whilst it may be the case that the angle may be in one direction, e.g. a ‘positive’ increase in angle in the exemplary image in a clockwise direction there may be some movement in the ‘negative’ direction (e.g. counter-clockwise in the exemplary image 8d). As such whilst the ranges are given as absolute values there may be some movement in the opposite direction should the user require it. For example, the range may in fact be from -10 degrees to 180 degrees, -10 to 160 degrees, -10 to 140 degrees, -10 to 120 degrees, -10 to 100 degrees, -10 to 90 degrees, or -10 to 89 degrees, or -10 to 80 degrees. Alternatively, the minimum value may be any one of: -40, -30, -20, -15, -10, -5, -2, -1 degrees. Subsequently, upon removal of the force F2 the biasing member 70 biases the duct 60 to return to the first configuration. This causes the longitudinal axes Y-Y and Z-Z to once again become co-axial as is shown in Figure 4. The user may thereafter slide the slidable member 50 back into the first position to cover the flexible duct section 62 preventing relative movement of the first and second duct sections 64, 66 until it is required to do so again. Optionally where there is a locking means 80, 180, 280 the user may lock the slidable member 50 into place on the tube 60. A method of using a surface cleaning apparatus 10 to clean a surface 102 or volume obstructed by an obstacle 100 will be described with reference to Figures 9 and 10. Figure 10 shows a flow chart 200 showing a number of method steps. Advantageously, the method 200 enables a user to clean around or under obstacles without having to move them. Such a method is particularly useful where the obstacle is relatively heavy, e.g. a bed or other item of furniture which may require more than one person to move to clean underneath. As shown in Figure 9 the surface cleaning apparatus 10 comprises the pole 16 of one of the previously described embodiments. In the depicted drawing a user (not shown) has provided a force F2 through handle 28 to manipulate the first and second rigid ducts 64, 66 relative to each other. The method 200 comprises providing at S-210 a surface cleaning apparatus 10 having a pole 16 and a surface cleaning tool 14 connected to the pole 16. The method 200 has the further step S-220 of sliding the slidable member 50 from the first position to the second position. Subsequently at step S-230 moving the first and second rigid duct sections 64, 66 relative to each other. Then at step S-240 manoeuvring the surface cleaning tool 14 around the obstacle 100 to clean a surface 102 or volume obstructed by said obstacle 100. Optionally, where the pole 16 comprises an optional biasing member 70 the method may comprise a further optional step whereby after the surface 102 or volume is cleaned the biasing member 70 biases the duct 60 to return to a first configuration. Optionally, where the pole 16 comprises a locking means 80, 180, 280 the method may comprise an additional step of unlocking the locking means 80, 180, 280 to enable slidable movement of the slidable member 50 and / or an additional step of locking the locking means 80, 180, 280 to prevent slidable movement of the slidable member 50. Whilst an embodiment of the invention has been explained with reference to a stick type vacuum cleaner (surface cleaning apparatus 10). It will be apparent to those skilled in the art reading the present disclosure that the pole 16 may be utilised with any surface cleaning apparatus. For example, the surface cleaning apparatus 10 may be any one of: a handheld vacuum cleaner, a pole vacuum cleaner, a pod vacuum cleaner, an upright vacuum cleaner, a stick vacuum cleaner, a canister vacuum cleaner, a central vacuum cleaner and a backpack vacuum cleaner. A central vacuum cleaner may be a vacuum cleaner with the vacuum cleaner motor and dirt bin located remotely with the dirt inlet port located in a port or a wall of a domestic or commercial property, in such an embodiment the pole 16 may be connected via a flexible hose to the dirt inlet port. Similarly, whilst the embodiment of the invention has been explained with reference to a dry-vacuum type surface cleaning apparatus it will be apparent to those skilled in the art reading the present disclosure that the pole 16 may be utilised as part of a wet-vacuum surface cleaning apparatus. As such, the surface cleaning apparatus may be a wet-vacuum surface cleaning apparatus or a dryvacuum surface cleaning apparatus. In such a wet-vacuum surface cleaning apparatus the pole 16 may be used to convey dirty fluid (comprising a mixture of dirty air and dirty liquid) to filtration means to separate the dirty liquid and direct it to a collection tank located in the wet-vacuum cleaner. The pole 16 in such an embodiment may further comprise a pipe or tube to convey cleaning fluid from a tank located on or in the surface cleaning apparatus to a surface cleaning tool 14 that may comprise a nozzle to spray fluid onto the surface prior to or during a vacuuming session. According to another aspect of the invention, not shown in the Figures, there is described a kit of parts which may comprise any pole 16 of any previously described embodiment or a wand 8 of any 5 previously described embodiment or any previously described surface cleaning apparatus 10 having the pole 16 and / or wand 8. As will be apparent to the skilled reader, the kit of parts may be supplied as separate components for assembly or a partially assembled kit. The kit of parts may be supplied as individual components for assembly in a factory by a manufacturer or home or commercial setting by an end user. 10 The skilled reader of the present disclosure will appreciate that various modifications and changes may be made to the presently described invention without departing from the scope of the application.

Claims

1. A selectively flexible pole (16) of a surface cleaning apparatus (10) comprising:a tube (60) comprising a flexible duct section (62), a first rigid duct section (64), a second rigid duct section (66), anda slidable member (50);wherein:the first rigid duct section is connected to a first side (65) of the flexible duct section and the second rigid duct section is connected to a second side (67) of the flexible duct section to define a fluid flow pathway (68) through the tube;the flexible duct section being configured to enable relative movement between the first and second rigid duct sections whilst maintaining the fluid flow pathway through the tube, wherein furtherthe slidable member is slidably located on the tube and slidable between a first position and a second position, andwherein in the first position the slidable member prevents relative movement between the first and second rigid ducts and in the second position the slidable member enables relative movement between the first and second rigid ducts.

2. The pole of claim 1, wherein the tube further comprises a biasing member (70) and the relative movement of the first and second rigid duct sections is within a range of movement between a first configuration and a second configuration; wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the tube to the first configuration.

3. The pole of claim 1, wherein the first rigid duct section has a first longitudinal axis (Y-Y) and the second rigid duct section has a second longitudinal axis (Z-Z); and wherein in the first configuration the first and second longitudinal axes are substantially co-axial, and in the second configuration the first and second longitudinal axes are at an angle relative to each other.

4. The pole of claim 3, wherein the angle is between 0 to 90 degrees.

5. The pole of any of claims 2 to 4, wherein the biasing member is a constant force spring or aflat spring.

6. The pole of any of claims 2 to 5, wherein the transverse cross-section of the biasing member is arcuate.7.The pole of claim 5 or 6, wherein the biasing member is unitary with the flexible duct section.

8. The pole of any of claims 4 to 7, wherein the biasing member extends around 5% to 50% of the perimeter of the flexible duct section.

9. The pole of any preceding claim, wherein the pole further comprises a locking means (80, 180, 280), wherein the locking means is configured to lock the slidable member into the first or second position.

10. The pole of claim 9, wherein the locking means is a bayonet connector arrangement.

11. The pole of claim 9, wherein the locking means (280) comprises an inclined surface (282, 284) on one of the tube and an inner face (52) of the slidable member respectively, wherein in use the locking of the slidable member in the first or second position is achieved by engaging the inclined surface with the other of the tube and inner face of the slidable member to form a transition fit.

12. The pole of claim 11, wherein the other of the tube and slidable member comprises a complementary inclined surface (282, 284), and wherein in use the lock is achieved by engaging the inclined surfaces to form a transition fit.

13. The pole of claim 11 or 12, wherein the inclined surface is arranged such that the inclination of the inclined surface increases from a first height to a second height axially or radially with respect to a longitudinal axis (Y-Y, Z-Z) of the tube or slidable member.

14. The pole of claim 9, wherein the locking means (180) comprises an actuator (182) and a latch, the actuator being configured to operate the latch.

15. The pole of claim 14, wherein the actuator is located on the slidable member and the first or second ridged duct sections has a strike, and the latch is configured to engage the strike to prevent axial movement of the slidable member in the first or second position.

16. The pole of claim 9, wherein the locking means (80) comprises an extension (82) and a receiving portion (84), the extension being located on the slidable member and configured to move with the slidable member, the receiving portion being located on the first or second rigid duct and the receiving portion is configured to receive a portion of the extension to prevent axial movement of the slidable member.

17. The pole of any preceding claim, wherein the slidable member is a slidable collar (50).

18. The pole of claim 17, wherein the slidable collar extends around 60% to 100% of the perimeter of the tube.

19. A surface cleaning apparatus wand (16) comprising the pole according to any preceding claim and a surface cleaning tool (14) connected to the first or second rigid duct section.

20. A surface cleaning apparatus comprising the pole according to any of claims 1 to 18 or the surface cleaning apparatus wand of claim 19.

21. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 20, wherein the surface cleaning apparatus is any one of: a handheld vacuum cleaner, a pole vacuum cleaner, a pod vacuum cleaner, an upright vacuum cleaner, a stick vacuum cleaner, a canister vacuum cleaner, and a central vacuum cleaner, and a backpack vacuum cleaner.

22. A kit of parts comprising the pole of any one of claims 1 to 18, or the surface cleaning apparatus wand of claim 19, or the surface cleaning apparatus of claim 20 or 21.

23. A method (200) of using a surface cleaning apparatus to clean a surface (102) or volume obstructed by an obstacle, the method comprising:providing (S-210) a surface cleaning apparatus having a pole and a surface cleaning tool (14) connected to the pole, the pole comprising:a tube comprising a flexible duct section, a first rigid duct section, a second rigid duct section, anda slidable member;the first rigid duct section is connected to a first side of the flexible duct section and the second rigid duct section is connected to a second side of the flexible duct section to define a fluid flow pathway through the tube;the flexible duct is configured to enable relative movement between the first and second rigid duct sections whilst maintaining the fluid flow pathway through the tube,the slidable member is slidably located on the tube and slidable between a first position and a second position, andwherein in the first position the slidable member prevents relative movement between the first and second rigid duct sections and in the second position the slidable member enables relative movement between the first and second rigid duct sections; andthe steps of:sliding (S-220) the slidable member from the first position to the second position, moving (S-230) the first and second rigid duct sections relative to each other, manoeuvring (S-240) the surface cleaning tool around the obstacle to clean a surface or volume obstructed by said obstacle.

24. A selectively flexible pole of a surface cleaning apparatus comprising:a tube comprising a flexible duct section, a first rigid duct section, a second rigid duct section, anda biasing member;wherein:the first rigid duct section is connected to a first side of the flexible duct section and the second rigid duct section is connected to a second side of the flexible duct section to define a fluid flow pathway through the tube;the flexible duct section is configured to enable a range of movement between a first configuration and a second configuration whilst maintaining the fluid flow pathway through the tube; andwherein the biasing member is connected to the tube and is configured to bias the tube to the first configuration.

25. The pole of claim 24, wherein the biasing member is a constant force spring or a flat spring.

Images