Nozzle for surface treatment apparatus, and surface treatment apparatus having that nozzle

Abstract

To provide cleaners that can perform cleaning operations intended to draw in large pieces of debris without clogging.SOLUTION: An agitator includes: an elongated main body configured to rotate about a pivot axis; one or more soft cleaning features coupled to and extending outside a substantial portion of a surface of the elongated main body, the one or more soft cleaning features defining at least one channel; and at least one deformable flap disposed at least partially within the at least one channel and extending from the elongated main body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to vacuum cleaners, and more specifically to vacuum cleaner nozzles including chamfered castellations and / or cambered wheels to maintain suction while collecting relatively large debris (e.g., cheerios) and enhance user experience through improved handling and reduced wheel induced noise. Additionally (or alternatively), the present disclosure also relates generally to vacuum cleaners, and more specifically to vacuum cleaner nozzles including a brush roll having an elongated body substantially covered by a soft material having flaps, which may enhance user experience through improved debris agitation, debris containment, and / or reduced noise on various surfaces being cleaned (e.g., but not limited to, hard surfaces). [Background technology]

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 058,371, filed July 29, 2020, entitled NOZZLE FOR A SURFACE TREATMENT APPARATUS AND A SURFACE TREATMENT APPARATUS HAVING THE SAME, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0003] The following is not an admission that anything discussed below is part of the prior art or part of the common general knowledge of those skilled in the art. Vacuum cleaners may be used to clean a variety of surfaces. Some vacuum cleaners include nozzles with castellated configurations, whereby dust and debris are drawn into a dirty air inlet through multiple different inlets (or inlet paths). Such castellated nozzles allow for increased air velocity and higher suction compared to other nozzle configurations. The generally narrow castellations restrict / confine more area of ​​the suction inlet and result in higher air velocity during operation. Existing vacuum cleaners with castellated nozzles are generally effective at collecting debris, but some larger debris (e.g., cheerios) may not pass through the relatively narrow opening / inlet provided by the nozzle, or even worse, may clog the opening / inlet. On the other hand, widening the inlet of a castellated nozzle tends to result in lower air velocity and, by extension, reduced suction power, thus negating the benefits of having castellations. Thus, vacuum cleaners with castellated nozzles tend to remain limited to cleaning applications that do not call for the removal of large debris.

[0004] Embodiments are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying figures in which like reference numbers indicate similar parts and in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a vacuum cleaner nozzle consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 2 is a front view of the vacuum nozzle of FIG. 1 consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 3 is a side view of the vacuum cleaner nozzle of FIG. 1 consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 4 is a bottom view of the vacuum cleaner nozzle of FIG. 1, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] 5 is a bottom perspective view of the vacuum cleaner nozzle of FIG. 1 consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of a bottom frame of a vacuum cleaner nozzle consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B illustrates an isometric view of the leading edge of the bottom frame of FIG. 6A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A illustrates a front view of a bottom frame of the vacuum cleaner nozzle of FIG. 6A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B illustrates a front view of the leading edge of the bottom frame of FIG. 7A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A illustrates a side view of a bottom frame of the vacuum cleaner nozzle of FIG. 6A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B illustrates a side view of the leading edge of the bottom frame of FIG. 8A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A illustrates a bottom view of the bottom frame of the vacuum cleaner nozzle of FIG. 6A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B illustrates a bottom view of the leading edge of the bottom frame of FIG. 9A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 illustrates an isometric view of the leading edge of the bottom frame of FIG. 9A, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11A] 11A-11B illustrate a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the leading edge of the bottom frame of FIG. 6A taken along line 219 of FIG. 7B, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] 11A-11B illustrate a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the leading edge of the bottom frame of FIG. 6A taken along line 219 of FIG. 7B, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 illustrates a front perspective view of one embodiment of a chamfered castellation consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of a chamfered castellation consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14]FIG. 14 illustrates a bottom perspective view of one embodiment of a chamfered castellation consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 illustrates a front view of one embodiment of a chamfered castellation consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16A] FIG. 16A is a graph illustrating large debris pickup with chamfered castellations of various shell angles. [Figure 16B] FIG. 16B is a graph illustrating the relationship between shell angle and debris acceleration for an aspirator nozzle with chamfered castellations. [Figure 17A] 17A and 17B are schematic diagrams illustrating a nozzle with castellations as the nozzle encounters large debris, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17B] 17A and 17B are schematic diagrams illustrating a nozzle with castellations as the nozzle encounters large debris, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 illustrates a front view of one embodiment of a space between chamfered castellations consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19A] FIG. 19A is a front view of the leading edge of a vacuum cleaner nozzle having chamfered castellations and a cambered wheel consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19B] FIG. 19B is a semi-transparent view of the leading edge of the vacuum nozzle, FIG. 19A, showing the cambered wheels within the chamfered castellations. [Figure 19C] FIG. 19C illustrates a bottom view of a translucent leading edge of the vacuum nozzle of FIG. 19B, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19D] FIG. 19D illustrates an isometric view of a translucent leading edge of the vacuum cleaner nozzle of FIG. 19B, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20A] FIG. 20A is a front view of a cambered wheel consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20B]FIG. 20B is an isometric view of a cambered wheel consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a bottom partial view of another nozzle consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a bottom view of yet another nozzle consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 23] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the agitator of FIG. 22 consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] 24 is a perspective view of the elongated main body of the agitator of FIG. 23 consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a partial assembly view of the agitator of FIG. 23, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is another partial assembly view of the agitator of FIG. 23, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a further partial assembly view of the agitator of FIG. 23, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a partial assembly view of the agitator of FIG. 23 including an elastically deformable flap consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is another partial assembly view of the agitator of FIG. 23 including an elastically deformable flap consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 is a further partial assembly view of the agitator of FIG. 23 including an elastically deformable flap consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is yet another partial assembly view of the agitator of FIG. 23 including an elastically deformable flap consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of another nozzle including multiple vibration absorbers consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0006] While the making and using of various embodiments of the present disclosure are discussed in detail below, it should be understood that the present disclosure provides numerous applicable inventive concepts that can be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the present disclosure and do not limit the scope of the disclosure.

[0007] As mentioned above, vacuum cleaners with castellated nozzles benefit from high suction power, but cannot be used for a wide range of cleaning operations, such as those aimed at removing large pieces of debris, such as Cheerios, etc. To make matters worse, castellated nozzles tend to clog easily, as debris, such as Cheerios, can become trapped within the associated channels.

[0008] Therefore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, disclosed herein is a nozzle having chamfered castellations that provide high suction pressure while also allowing large debris to pass through the inlet opening. More particularly, disclosed herein is a nozzle for a surface treatment device. The nozzle provides a suction channel through which debris passes into a main body of the surface treatment device. Chamfered castellations are provided along a leading edge of the nozzle to allow debris to pass through the leading edge into the suction channel and into the main body, for example, during forward and rearward strokes of the surface treatment device.

[0009] In one embodiment, the chamfered castellation further includes a receiver / cavity for receiving and securely holding the wheel therein. The wheel may advantageously be located at an offset distance from the side of the nozzle. This provides improved edge cleaning, as the nozzle may be configured with an inlet that allows for side-to-side cleaning movement, for example along the wall. As discussed in more detail below, the wheel may be configured as a cambered wheel.

[0010] Nozzles configured in accordance with the present disclosure offer numerous advantages and features over existing nozzle configurations, for example, the chamfered castellations disclosed herein allow vacuum cleaners incorporating same to be used in a wide range of cleaning operations, and importantly, cleaning operations aimed at drawing in large debris without clogging.

[0011] 1-5, one embodiment of a nozzle 100 is generally illustrated. As used herein, the term vacuum cleaner nozzle refers to any type of vacuum cleaner nozzle and may also be referred to as a cleaning head, cleaning nozzle, or simply a nozzle. Such a nozzle may be attached to a vacuum cleaner (or any other surface cleaning device), including, but not limited to, manual vacuum cleaners and robotic vacuum cleaners. Further non-limiting examples of manual vacuum cleaners include upright vacuum cleaners, canister vacuum cleaners, stick vacuum cleaners, and central vacuum systems. Thus, although various aspects of the present disclosure may be illustrated and / or described in the context of manual vacuum cleaners or robotic vacuum cleaners, it will be understood that unless specifically stated otherwise, the features disclosed herein are applicable to manual vacuum cleaners, robotic vacuum cleaners, and other similar surface cleaning devices.

[0012] With this in mind, Figure 1 generally illustrates an isometric view of the nozzle 100. Figure 2 generally illustrates a front view of the nozzle 100 of Figure 1. Figure 3 generally illustrates a side view of the nozzle 100 of Figure 1. Figure 4 generally illustrates a side view of the bottom cleaner nozzle 100 of Figure 1. Figure 5 generally illustrates a side view of the bottom perspective cleaner nozzle 100 of Figure 1.

[0013] It will be appreciated that the nozzle 100 shown in Figures 1-5 is for illustrative purposes only, and that a vacuum cleaner consistent with the present disclosure may not include all of the features shown in Figures 1-5 and / or may include additional features not shown in Figures 1-5.

[0014] As shown, the nozzle 100 includes a body or housing 130 that at least partially defines / contains one or more agitator chambers 122. The agitator chambers 122 include one or more openings (or air inlets) defined in and / or by a portion of a bottom surface / plate 105 of the housing 130. At least one rotating agitator or brush roll 180 is configured to be coupled to the nozzle 100 (either permanently or removably coupled thereto) and configured to rotate about a pivot axis within the agitator chamber 122 by one or more rotation systems. The rotation system may be at least partially disposed within the cleaner head 100 and may include one or more motors, e.g., AC motors and / or DC motors, coupled to one or more belts and / or gear trains for rotating the agitator 180.

[0015] The nozzle 100 is coupled to a debris collection chamber (not shown) which places it in fluid communication with the agitator chamber 122 to draw in and store debris collected by the rotating agitator 180. The agitator chamber 122 and the debris chamber are fluidly connected to a vacuum source (e.g., a suction motor or the like) to create an air flow (e.g., a partial vacuum) within the agitator chamber 122 and the debris collection chamber, thereby sucking in debris proximate to the agitator chamber 122 and / or the agitator 180.

[0016] Rotation of the agitator 180 operates to agitate / loosen debris from the cleaning surface. Optionally, one or more filters may be positioned within the nozzle 100 (or at other suitable locations in the vacuum cleaner) to remove debris (e.g., ultrafine debris such as dust particles or the like) entrained within the vacuum airflow.

[0017] The debris chamber, vacuum source, and / or filter may be located at least partially within the nozzle 100. Additionally, one or more suction tubes, ducts, or the like 136 may be provided to fluidly connect the debris chamber, vacuum source, and / or filter to the nozzle 100. The nozzle 100 may include and / or be configured to be electrically coupled to one or more power sources, such as, but not limited to, an electrical cord / plug, a battery (e.g., rechargeable and / or non-rechargeable batteries), and / or circuitry (e.g., an AC / DC converter, a voltage regulator, a step-up / step-down transformer, or the like), to provide power to various components of the nozzle 100, such as, but not limited to, the rotation system and / or the vacuum source.

[0018] The housing 130 further includes an upper surface 102 and a leading edge (or leading edge) 101. Air flows past the leading edge 101 and into the agitator chamber 122. Recesses or castellations 110 are provided along the leading edge 101 of the nozzle 100. The castellations 110 provide multiple inlets and associated inlet paths that transition into a shared suction channel within the nozzle 100.

[0019] As more clearly shown in FIGS. 4-5, the castellations 110 are defined by a plurality of protrusions extending away from the base plate 105 of the housing. Each protrusion includes a substantially converging (e.g., but not limited to, triangular / arrowhead shaped, which may include two or three sides) profile, the tip of which is disposed adjacent the leading edge 101 of the nozzle 100. Each protrusion may therefore be at least partially defined by at least two beveled edges that extend towards each other and may be substantially transverse to the leading edge 101, such that the two beveled edges meet at an apex / point adjacent the leading edge 101. One or more of the beveled edges may be linear and / or non-linear. Adjacent protrusions collectively define an air inlet that tapers towards the center of the nozzle 100 and, importantly, towards its dirty air inlet. Thus, each air inlet includes a tapered profile having a first width W1 adjacent the leading edge 101 of the nozzle transitioning to a second width W2 adjacent the center of the nozzle, the first width W1 being greater than the second width W2. Thus, the castellations 110 may also be referred to as having a chamfered profile or being chamfered castellations. As discussed further below, the distance between adjacent castellations and the castellation characteristics (such as dimensions and surface angles) can be selected to achieve a desired airflow / suction and clearance profile for the target debris, e.g., Cheerios.

[0020] Subsequently, chamfered castellations 110 are provided along the leading edge 101 of the nozzle 100 to allow debris to pass through the leading edge 101 into the suction channel and ultimately into the main body during the forward and rearward strokes of the surface treatment device. As further shown in FIGS. 4-5, the chamfered castellations 110 can provide protrusions with wheel receivers / cavities. A wheel, e.g., wheel 111, may then be coupled to and trapped on the wheel receiver. The wheel 111 and associated receiver provided by the castellations 110 advantageously allow for the wheel 111 to be positioned within the nozzle 100 at a location that is offset away from the side of the nozzle 100 to allow for improved edge cleaning, e.g., as described above. Additionally, the placement of the wheel 111 within the receiver of the chamfered castellations 110 minimizes or otherwise reduces the possibility of restricting airflow.

[0021] 6A-11B illustrate an example embodiment of a nozzle bottom frame 200 consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. The bottom frame 200 includes chamfered castellations 210. The chamfered castellations 210 are disposed at a leading edge of the bottom frame 200 and protrude from a lower planar surface 219 toward a floor surface. As discussed above, the castellations can define wheel receivers for receiving and coupling wheels 211, for example.

[0022] The present disclosure has identified that several factors of the castellations 210 work in combination and can be selected to achieve the desired function and airflow / suction.

[0023] 12-15 show example dimensions of chamfered castellations 1100 consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. One objective of the present disclosure is to balance the need to maximize airflow / suction with the ability to allow relatively large debris to enter the nozzle through the castellations 110. With this in mind, the present disclosure has determined that the spacing (or offset distance) between the castellations 1100 at least partially determines the overall size / dimensions of debris that can enter the brush roll chamber. The spacing of the castellations is preferably set to a predefined uniform offset distance that allows objects approximately the size of Cheerios to pass through the castellations.

[0024] The castellations 1100 then protrude from a face 1104 of the nozzle that is closest to the floor during operation. Each castellation 1100 has a bottom surface 1105 that contacts or abuts the floor surface during operation. The overall height 1103 of the castellation 1100 is the distance from the face 1104 of the nozzle to the bottom surface 1105 of the castellation 1100. The castellation height 1103 is determined in part based on the desired ground clearance for the nozzle. The ground clearance can further affect, for example, the maximum size of debris that can pass under the castellation 1100 and can affect migration over a partition.

[0025] The horizontal dimension or castellation width 1107 of any individual castellation 1100 is one factor that determines how area-limiting the castellation 1100 is. The castellation width 1107 can be determined, for example, based on the nozzle inlet opening width and the spacing between each castellation 1100. Wider castellations 1100 generally increase the surface area coverage of the nozzle. The nozzle surface area coverage caused by the increased width 1107 of the castellations 1100 creates narrower openings at the nozzle inlet. These narrower openings cause higher air velocities through the nozzle during operation.

[0026] The castellation depth 1108 is the dimension of how far the castellation 1100 extends back from the leading edge of the nozzle toward the brush roll chamber. The angle of the front "shell" of the castellation 1100, or shell angle (Φ) 1110, is the angle the front of the castellation 1100 makes between its two edges. The shell angle 1110 affects how quickly large debris can slide into the brush roll chamber after contacting the castellation 1100. At smaller angles 1110, the castellation 1100 generally mimics a flat blade, and large debris can easily pass past the leading edge 1112 of the nozzle and into the brush roll chamber. However, a larger angle 1110 usually means that large debris will face more resistance when entering the brush roll chamber. Generally, a larger shell angle 1110 will lead to more large debris accumulating and clogging the front entrance. A smaller shell angle 1110 may not be practical or desirable for castellations 1100 with wider widths 1107.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 16A, a larger shell angle may be acceptable when the castellation width is large, since higher air velocity helps to evacuate larger debris faster from the ramp, which prevents or reduces the chance of clogging.

[0028] Assuming there is no suction or rolling motion of the Cheerios as they slide down the castellations, their acceleration down the castellations can be approximated as follows:

[0029]

number

[0030] FIG. 16B illustrates the relationship between shell angle and acceleration of an exemplary large debris. The lighter line area 1601 (90-130 degrees) represents the normal range of shell angles when modeling chamfered castellations. In this area 1601, acceleration decreases an average of 2.8% for each degree increase in shell angle, and decreases more per degree as the shell angle increases. The lower acceleration causes the debris (e.g., Cheerios) to exit more slowly into the brush roll chamber, leading to more clogging and failure to pick up the debris.

[0031] In the present disclosure, the castellation 1100 is further characterized by at least one chamfer 1120 (see, e.g., FIG. 12 ). The chamfer 1120 can be created / formed by removing a portion of the castellation 1100, the dimensions of which are then chosen to achieve the nominal suction and clearance as described above.

[0032] The chamfer 1120 may be formed by a beveled edge cut from a vertical surface. As seen in Figure 12, the chamfer 1120 flush with the rear of the castellation 1100 generally widens the spacing at the bottom 1105 while keeping the spacing tighter at the top 1104. This increases the overall surface area restricted by the castellation 1100 and increases air velocity while importantly still allowing larger debris to pass through.

[0033] The main dimensions of the chamfer 1120 are its horizontal dimension (x) 1102 and vertical dimension (y) 1101. These dimensions 1102, 1101 help determine the size and type of debris that can pass through into the brush roll chamber.

[0034] As discussed above, the dimensions of the castellation 1100 influence the possible dimensions 1102 , 1101 of any possible chamfer 1120 . The extrusion angle (α) 1106 (see, for example, FIG. 13) is the angle that the castellation 1100 makes with respect to the horizontal (side view). The extrusion angle 1106 affects both the x and y components of the chamfer 1120.

[0035] Radius (R) 1109 (see, e.g., FIG. 14) is the radius of the anterior radius on the castellation 1100 and primarily affects the x-component of the chamfer. Radius 1109 primarily affects the x-component of the chamfer.

[0036] The castellation height 1103 (see, for example, FIG. 12) affects both the x and y components of the chamfer 1120. The castellation width 1107 primarily affects the x-component of the chamfer 1120 .

[0037] The castellation depth 1108 primarily affects the x-component of the chamfer 1120 . The shell angle 1110 primarily affects the x-component of the chamfer 1120 . The offset (O) 1111 (see, for example, Figures 12 and 14) is the distance that the angled wall of the castellation is shifted toward the front of the plate.

[0038] For standard castellations, determining the spacing between castellations is simple and can be based on factors such as the size of the debris that needs to pass through the suction nozzle. For example, if the maximum dimension of debris to be picked up is 13.95 mm, then a minimum spacing of approximately 13.95 mm is required for castellations without chamfers. Furthermore, testing suggests that an additional 2 mm of clearance reduces clogging at the intake nozzle. Testing and simulations indicate that the additional clearance space does not further reduce debris clogging at the nozzle, but reduces the air velocity through the nozzle. Thus, a spacing of 16 mm +- 2 mm between each castellation allows for clogging-free passage of the target debris size while also benefiting from increased air velocity from the castellation.

[0039] Figures 17A and 17B are schematic diagrams illustrating a nozzle with castellations as the nozzle encounters a large piece of debris. Figure 17A illustrates a standard castellation 2100 without one or more chamfers. Figure 17B illustrates a chamfered castellation 2110. A large piece 2200, e.g., Cheerios, cannot pass through the castellation 2100 shown in Figure 17A, but a piece of the same size can pass through the chamfered castellation 2110 of Figure 17B due to the increased spacing provided by the chamfer 2111.

[0040] 17A shows castellations 2100 without chamfers and spaced 12 mm apart. The example large piece 2200 has a height 2201 of 7.58 mm, and an outer diameter 2202 of 13.95 mm.

[0041] FIG. 17B shows castellations 2110 with 12 mm spacing with chamfers 2111 of 4 mm by 4.75 mm. The x dimension of the chamfers 2111 extends the spacing to 20 mm at the bottom. However, the use of chamfers 2111 preserves the inlet area of ​​29 mm2 per spacing as opposed to no chamfers with 20 mm spacing. Therefore, larger debris is picked up without the reduction in air velocity caused by castellations with 20 mm spacing.

[0042] Just as the size of the pieces to be picked up is used to determine the spacing for a standard castellation, the dimensions 2201, 2202 of the pieces can be used to determine the dimensional components of the chamfer 2111. In addition to the width 2202, the height 2201 of the pieces may be used to calculate the vertical component of the chamfer 2111. After the desired height has been calculated, the following formula may be used to determine the initial y component of the chamfer:

[0043] y = height - ground clearance Equation (2) The x-component of the chamfer should preferably be selected to produce the desired spacing without having a chamfer at the midpoint of the chamfer. Therefore, the initial desired spacing for the castellations is located in the middle of the space. For example, as described above, when determining spacing without a chamfer, a 16 mm spacing was used to obtain 100% pickup of pieces having an outer dimension of 13.95 mm.

[0044] If a line is extended between the two castellation chamfers at the midpoint of the hypotenuse of the chamfer, as shown in Figure 18, this value should be equal to whatever nominal spacing was originally calculated without the use of the chamfer. In this embodiment, a 4mm by 4.75mm chamfer is used on top of a 12mm wide spacing to create a 16mm spacing at the midpoint of the chamfer.

[0045] Once the castellation requirements for the suction nozzle have been determined, the following dimensions can be determined: Chamfer dimensions: x and y Castellation height: H (usually determined based on the requirements of the suction nozzle) Extrusion angle: α (45° may be used for initial calculations, but can be increased or decreased to achieve the desired radius) Castellation depth: D (determined based on the requirements of the suction nozzle) Castellation width: W (determined from the width of the front entrance, spacing, and number of castellations) Using the above dimensions, the following measurements may be calculated for the chamfered castellation: offset (O), extrusion length (E), shell angle (Φ), and radius (R).

[0046]

number

[0047] 19A-19D, some embodiments further include one or more wheels 1901 positioned within one or more chamfered castellations 1902, e.g., within the wheel receivers / cavities discussed above, such that the wheels 1901 are positioned away from the sides of the nozzle. Therefore, the dimensions of the castellations must allow for the inclusion of the wheels.

[0048] During operation of the vacuum cleaner, the wheels 1901 in front of the suction inlet are exposed to debris. To prevent debris from clogging the wheels, the leading edge of the suction nozzle preferably completely encapsulates / surrounds the one or more wheels 1901 (e.g., the leading edge of the one or more wheels 1901). If the one or more wheels 1901 are located on the lateral sides of the suction nozzle, the housing of the wheels constrains the range of shapes for the side castellations 1903 by the suction nozzle. Furthermore, the side castellations 1903 may be required to accommodate other hardware such as attachment points, leaving only a relatively small amount of room for the one or more wheels 1901. In this embodiment, the side castellations 1903 allow for improved edge cleaning without necessarily having to accommodate the wheels.

[0049] As shown in Figures 20A-20B, one or more of the wheels shown in Figures 19A-19D may be cambered wheels. Camber is the angle at which the wheel stands relative to the floor. In this embodiment, the wheels have a static negative camber, where the top of each wheel is tilted closer to the center of the suction nozzle when not moving. The camber angle changes the maneuverability of a particular suspension design, and in particular, negative camber improves grip while moving. Generally, each wheel operates independently and rolls in an arc. When both wheels have symmetric negative camber, the lateral forces substantially cancel each other out. Therefore, the user can easily steer the cleaning device during operation, and the increased "grip" improves the perception of control.

[0050] In addition to the perception of control, the noise generated during operation of the vacuum cleaner can significantly impact the user experience. Increased noise, especially noise not associated with the suction motor, is seen as a negative and undesirable quality. Wheel chatter, i.e. the noise produced by the vacuum cleaner's wheels during operation, should be reduced as much as possible. The cambered wheels of the present embodiment allow for a reduction in wheel chatter during operation.

[0051] The cambered wheel generates a force substantially perpendicular to the direction of travel that forces the cambered wheel into the wheel housing above the nozzle. Since one cause of wheel chatter noise is the wheel knocking against the housing, the cambered wheel limits the range of motion of the wheel relative to the housing.

[0052] 21, another embodiment of a nozzle 2100 including one or more castellations 2110 consistent with the present disclosure is generally illustrated. As described herein, the castellations 2110 may include a substantially converging (e.g., but not limited to, triangular / arrowhead shaped, which may include two or three sides) profile with a tip 2115 disposed adjacent the leading edge 2101 of the nozzle 2100. The castellations / protrusions 2110 may be at least partially defined by at least two beveled edges / walls 2113, 2114 that extend toward one another and may be substantially transverse to the leading edge 2101, such that the two beveled edges / walls 2113 / 2114 meet at an apex / point / tip 2115 adjacent the leading edge 2101. One or more of the beveled edges / walls 2113, 2114 may be linear and / or non-linear. One or more of the castellations / protrusions 2110 may be considered to have a hollow rear portion. As used herein, the term "hollow rear portion" is intended to mean that the castellation 2110 does not include a portion that joins / connects the distal ends 2117, 2119 of the two beveled edges / walls 2113, 2114 (e.g., the ends 2117, 2119 of the two beveled edges / walls 2113, 2114 generally opposite the apex / point 2115). As such, the hollow rear castellation 2110 does not have a rear wall that joins / connects the distal ends of the two beveled edges / walls 2113, 2114. Thus, the hollow rear castellation 2110 and the housing 2120 (e.g., sole plate 2121) may define a recess and / or cavity 2122 that is exposed to (e.g., directly fluidly coupled to) the airflow into the stir chamber 122.

[0053] 22, another embodiment of a nozzle 2200 is generally shown including one or more agitators 2210, which may be an embodiment of the agitator 180 of FIG. 4. The agitator 2210 may be rotatably disposed within one or more stirring chambers 122 formed within the housing / body 130, generally as described herein. With reference to FIG. 23, the agitator 2210 is shown removed from the nozzle 2200. The agitator 2210 may include an elongated body or core 2300 having a longitudinal axis 2301 extending along a pivot axis PA (FIG. 22) of the agitator 2210. The elongated body or core 2300 may be formed from a substantially rigid material configured to permit the agitator 2210 to rotate within the agitator chamber 122. The elongated body or core 2300 may have a generally cylindrical shape (see, e.g., FIG. 24) or may have a tapered design as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 656,930, filed October 18, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As can be seen, the agitator 2210 includes at least one soft cleaning feature 2302 and at least one elastically deformable flap 2304 (which may be an example of a sidewall) disposed within at least one channel and extending spirally around and radially outward from at least a portion of the elongated main body 2300 of the agitator 2210 in a direction along the longitudinal axis 2806 of the agitator 2210. As described herein, the agitator 2210 may generally be considered a napped roller having a soft material forming at least one channel and at least one elastically deformable flap disposed therein.

[0054] The soft cleaning feature 2302 may include a plush, dense pile fabric (e.g., but not limited to, velvet or velvet-like material) formed from relatively flexible filaments / materials. The pile fabric may be similar to the raised or fluffy surface of a carpet, rug, or fabric, and may comprise filaments woven onto a fabric carrier member (not shown) that is attached to the elongated main body 2300, for example, using an adhesive. The length of the pile fabric filaments may be in the range of 5-15 mm. The fabric carrier may be in the form of a strip wound onto the elongated main body 2300 such that the pile fabric is substantially continuous and substantially covers the outer surface of the elongated main body 2300 as described herein. Alternatively, the carrier member may be in the form of a cylindrical sleeve into which the elongated main body 2300 is inserted.

[0055] The pile material may include synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, petroleum-based acrylic or acrylonitrile, natural fibers (such as wool or animal fur), or wood pulp-based rayon, and / or may be derived from blended fibers. The fluff or pile of the soft cleaning feature 2302 may be configured to agitate and / or transport debris toward the opening of the nozzle 2200. Due to the softness of the pile / fluff, the soft cleaning feature 2302 may dampen vibrations, absorb sound, and / or reduce damage (e.g., scratches) to floor surfaces (e.g., but not limited to, hardwood floors or the like). As a non-limiting example, the soft cleaning feature 2302 may have a density of 5000-8250 grams / cm, e.g., 6600 grams / cm. The pile of the soft cleaning features 2302 may extend from the elongate body or core 2300 approximately 2-10 cm, for example 7 mm.

[0056] The agitator 2210 may include one or more channels 2310 in which at least one elastically deformable flap 2304 is at least partially disposed. The channel 2310 may be configured to allow the elastically deformable flap 2304 to move forward and backward as the agitator 2210 rotates. In at least one embodiment, the channel 2310 may have a width adjacent to the opening of about 6-12 mm, e.g., about 8 mm wide (front to back).

[0057] The channel 2310 may be at least partially formed and / or defined by the soft cleaning feature 2302. In at least one embodiment (see, e.g., FIGS. 25-27), the channel 2310 may have a "U" cross-sectional shape including a base 2312 (which may be formed by the elongated main body 2300) and two sidewalls 2314, 2316 (which may be formed by the soft cleaning feature 2302). The sidewalls 2314, 2316 may be substantially perpendicular to a surface of the elongated main body 2300 and / or may extend at an obtuse and / or acute angle to a surface of the elongated main body 2300. Alternatively (or additionally), the channel 2310 may have a "V" cross-sectional shape with the two sidewalls 2314, 2316 extending from a base region of the elastically deformable flap 2304.

[0058] One or more channels 2310 may extend from one of the ends or end regions 2320, 2322 of the agitator 2210 generally toward a central region 2324 of the agitator 2210. In at least one embodiment, the channels 2310 extend from the ends or end regions 2320, 2322 and terminate at the central region 2324. As such, the length of each of the channels 2310 is less than the length of the main body 2300. The portions 2326 of the channels 2310 from each end 2320, 2322 may overlap longitudinally with one another in the central region 2324 as the agitator rotates about the pivot axis (i.e., the portions 2326 of the channels 2310 may contact the same area of ​​the floor as the agitator 2310 rotates). The channels 2310 may extend linearly and / or non-linearly across the agitator 2310.

[0059] In at least one embodiment, the soft cleaning features 2302 (e.g., fluff) may extend across a substantial portion of the surface of the cylindrical portion of the elongated main body 2300 (i.e., portions of the elongated main body 2300 other than the circular ends). As used herein, a substantial portion of the surface of the cylindrical portion of the elongated main body 2300 is intended to mean at least 75% of the surface of the cylindrical portion of the elongated main body 2300, for example, at least 80% of the surface of the cylindrical portion of the elongated main body 2300, at least 85% of the surface of the cylindrical portion of the elongated main body 2300, and / or at least 90% of the surface of the cylindrical portion of the elongated main body 2300, including all values ​​and ranges therein. The soft cleaning features 2302 may extend across the entire surface of the cylindrical portion of the elongated main body 2300 except where the channels 2310 are located.

[0060] The soft cleaning feature 2302 may be formed from a single monolithic piece of material. Alternatively, the soft cleaning feature 2302 may be formed from multiple separate pieces coupled to the elongated main body 2300. Forming the soft cleaning feature 2302 formed from multiple separate pieces may aid in the manufacture of the agitator 2210, particularly the formation of the channels 2310.

[0061] As discussed herein, the agitator 2210 may include a plurality of deformable flaps 2304, each of which has a length less than the length of the main body 2300. As shown, the agitator 2210 includes a plurality of deformable flaps 2304 extending from end regions 2320, 2322 of the agitator 220 and / or main body 2300 to a central region 2324 of the agitator 220 and / or main body 2300. As discussed herein, the agitator 2210 may not include any bristles, although it will be appreciated that the agitator 2800 may optionally include bristles in addition to (or without) the flaps 2304 (e.g., the bristles are substantially adjacent to the flaps 2304).

[0062] 23, the flap 2304 may extend generally helically around at least a portion of the elongated main body 2300 and may be formed of an elastically deformable material. One or more of the end regions 3200, 3202 of the flap 2304 may include a chamfer or taper (e.g., the flap 2304 may include a taper at only or each end region 3200, 3202). In this manner, the height of the flap 2304 at at least a portion of the end regions 3200, 3202 may be less than the height 3204 of the flap 2304 at the central region 3206. In other words, the taper may bring the cleaning edge 3201 of the flap 2304 closer to the elongated main body 2300. According to one embodiment, the height of the flap 2304 may be measured from the base 3208 of the flap 2304 to the cleaning edge 3201 of the flap 2304, where the base 3208 is configured to be secured to the agitator 2210 (e.g., the elongated main body 2300). Alternatively, the height of the flap 2304 may be measured from the axis of rotation of the agitator 2210 to the cleaning edge 3201 of the flap 2304. The taper of the end regions 3200, 3202 may be constant (e.g., linear) and / or non-linear. In at least one embodiment, the middle of the flap 2304 may have the greatest height. The taper of the first end region 3200 may be the same as or different from the taper of the second end region 3202.

[0063] The first end region 3200 may be disposed within one of the end regions of the elongated main body 2300, and the second end region 3202 may be disposed within a central region 2324 of the elongated main body 2300. The taper of the first end region 3200 may be configured to be at least partially received within an end cap, for example, a moving hair end cap, such as the end cap described in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 656,930, filed October 18, 2019, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. The taper of the first end region 3200 may reduce wear and / or friction between the flap 2304 and the end cap, which may increase the life of the flap 2304 and the end cap. In at least some embodiments, the taper of the first end region 3200 may reduce folding of the flap 2304 (both within the end cap and portions of the flap 2304 disposed proximal and exterior to the end cap) as the flap 2304 rotates within the end cap. Reducing the folding of the flap 2304 may increase contact between the flap 2304 and the surface being cleaned, thereby enhancing cleaning performance.

[0064] The taper of the first end region 3200 may have a length and a height. The length may be selected based on the dimensions of the end cap in which it is received. For example, the length may be the same as the insertion distance of the flap 2304 in the end cap, may be less than the insertion distance of the flap 2304 in the end cap, or may be greater than the insertion distance of the flap 2304 in the end cap. The taper of the first end region 3200 helps to mitigate bending of the flap 2304 as it is pressed into the end cap. By way of example, the taper of the first end region 3200 may have a length of 5-9 mm and a height of 1-3 mm, and / or a length of 7 mm and a height of 2 mm.

[0065] The taper of the second end region 3202 may be configured to enhance the movement of hair along the agitator 2210. In particular, the taper may enhance the movement of hair as hair tends to move to a smallest diameter. Hence, the taper of the second end region 3202 may allow hair to migrate more effectively towards a particular location. In addition, the taper of the second end region 3202 may act as a hair storage area. To this end, the central region 2324 of the agitator 2800 may have a smaller overall diameter compared to the overall diameter of the proximal end regions 3000, 3002. In this manner, hair may accumulate and wrap around the central region 2324 of the agitator 2310. The taper of the second end region 3202 of the first flap 2304 may partially overlap with the taper of the second end region 3202 of the adjacent flap 2304 in the central region 2324. As described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 656,930, filed October 18, 2019 (hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety), when the flap 2304 is optionally used in combination with a debrider unit and / or ribs, the teeth and / or ribs of the debrider unit may optionally be longer in an area adjacent the second end region 3202 of the flap 2304.

[0066] The dimensions of the taper of the flap 2304 can affect the performance and / or lifespan of the flap 2304. Increasing the taper (e.g., length and / or height) can improve hair movement, but too much taper can adversely affect cleaning performance. For example, too much taper of the second end region 3202 can result in gaps and the flap 2304 does not make sufficient contact with the surface being cleaned. On the other hand, too little taper of the second end region 3202 (e.g., length and / or height) may not result in sufficient hair movement.

[0067] Experiments have shown that removing the inner chamfer (e.g., removing the taper of the second end region 3202) may remove the middle gap, which may result in improved cleaning performance and aesthetic appearance (no kinky chamfer), but removing the middle gap may cause hair buildup on the agitator 2310 due to insufficient hair movement. A taper of the second end region 3202 with too short a length may reduce and / or eliminate the detrimental effects caused by the middle gap and may promote hair movement, but such a configuration may result in a chamfer that is too steep and may cause bad twisting. For example, experiments have shown that a taper in the second end region 3202 with a length of 5 mm and a height of 7 mm results in a taper that causes twisting that has an aesthetically unpleasant appearance to the user and may cause the flap 2304 to fold backwards, which may impair cleaning / hair removal.

[0068] A taper in the second end region 3202 with too long a length may improve hair movement and may not twist the flap 2304, but may result in a large intermediate gap. For example, experiments have shown that a taper in the second end region 3202 with a length of 30 mm and a height of 7 mm results in a taper with a large cleaning gap that may be detrimental to overall cleaning performance.

[0069] The inventors of the present application have unexpectedly found that a taper in the second end region 3202 having a length of 15-25 mm and a height of 5-12 mm allows hair movement while minimizing the intermediate cleaning gap and the size of any resulting twist (e.g., the resulting twist is generally not visible and does not substantially affect performance). As a non-limiting example, the taper in the second end region 3202 may have a length of 17-23 mm and a height of 6-10 mm, e.g., a length of 20 mm and a height 3302 of 7 mm. Stated differently, the taper in the second end region 3202 may have a length and height with a slope of 1-0.3, e.g., a slope of 0.28-0.42, a slope of 0.315-0.0385, and / or a slope of 0.35. In at least one embodiment, the second end region 3202 may have a taper of 25 x 7 mm. The overlap in the central region 2324 of the channel 2310 and / or the flap 2304 may be 10-20 mm.

[0070] One or more of the tapers in the first and / or second end regions 3200, 3202 may be formed by removing a portion of the outer cleaning edge 3201 of the flap 2304 (e.g., the edge that contacts the surface to be cleaned). This is particularly useful when the flap 2304 is formed from a non-woven material (e.g., but not limited to, rubber, plastic, silicone, or the like).

[0071] In embodiments in which the flap 2304 is formed, at least in part, from a woven material, it may be desirable to maintain selvedge in one or more of the first and / or second end regions 3200, 3202. The selvedge extends along the cleaning edge 3201 of the flap 2304, and the selvedge may improve the wear resistance of the flap 2304 if the portion of the cleaning edge 3201 of the flap 2304 that does not include the selvedge (e.g., if a portion of the flap 2304 is removed to create a taper). In at least one embodiment, the manufacturer's selvedge is maintained, and one or more of the tapers in the first and / or second end regions 3300, 3202 may be formed by modifying the installation edge of the flap 2304. Specifically, the cleaning edge 3201 of the flap 2304 may be substantially straight prior to installation into the agitator, and in the region of the first and / or second end regions 3200, 3202, the installation edge (which may also be the base) of the flap 2304 may be reduced in length as compared to the length of the flap 2304 in the central region 2324 (e.g., middle). In at least one embodiment, the installation edge may include multiple segments (e.g., molded contoured multiple "T" segments) that straighten when the flap 2304 is installed into the agitator body 2300, thereby resulting in contoured (e.g., tapered) selvedge in the first and / or second end regions 3200, 3202. In other words, the flap 2304 may be generally described as including multiple segments along the installation edge that cause a taper to be formed in the flap 2304 when installed into the body 2300.

[0072] In at least one embodiment, the flap 2304 (see, e.g., FIGS. 28-30) may include a protrusion 2800 extending generally outwardly from a base 2802. The protrusion 2800 may be formed at least in part from a polyester fabric. Optionally, a rear surface of the protrusion 2800 (as viewed based on the rotation of the agitator 2310) may include a silicone layer and a front surface of the protrusion 2800 may include a polyester fabric. The protrusion 2800 may have a height of 8-12 mm from the base 2802, e.g., 10.1 mm or 10.6 mm. The protrusion 2800 extends below, substantially flush with, or beyond the outer surface of the soft cleaning feature 2302. In at least one embodiment, the protrusions 2800 may extend up to 3 mm beyond the outer surface of the soft cleaning feature 2302, for example, about 0.5-2 mm beyond the outer surface of the soft cleaning feature 2302, and / or about 1-1.5 mm beyond the outer surface of the soft cleaning feature 2302.

[0073] The base 2802 may be configured to secure the flap 2304 to the agitator 2210 (e.g., elongated main body 2300) such that the protrusion 2800 extends generally radially outward from the agitator 2210. In at least one embodiment, the base 2802 may be configured to be at least partially received within a slot or groove 2804 formed in the agitator 2210 (e.g., elongated main body 2300) and disposed within the channel 2310. The base 2802 and slot 2804 may form a T-slot type connection, although it should be appreciated that the base 2802 and slot 2804 may form any other type of connection. Optionally, the base 2802 may include a retention portion 2806 that extends outward beyond the main body 2300. The retaining portion 2806 may be configured to extend outside of a portion of the soft cleaning feature 2302 and may be configured to help secure the soft cleaning feature 2302 to the agitator and generally prevent the soft cleaning feature 2302 from getting caught, caught, and dislodged as the agitator rotates. For example, the retaining portion 2806 may include one or more shelves or extensions that press the soft cleaning feature 2302 (e.g., pile or fluff) against the main body 2300 as the flap 2304 advances into the slot 2804.

[0074] 32, another embodiment of a nozzle 3100 consistent with the present disclosure is generally illustrated. The nozzle 3100 may include one or more vibration absorbing materials 3102 configured to reduce vibration and / or noise generated by the nozzle 3100 as the agitator rotates within the stir chamber. In one embodiment, the vibration absorbing material 3102 may include isobutyl rubber (e.g., Dynamat or equivalent) bonded to the brush roll window for vibration dampening. The vibration absorbing material 3102 may also be disposed along one or more portions of the interior or exterior surface of the stir chamber.

[0075] While the principles of the present invention have been described herein, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that this description is made by way of example only and not as a limitation on the scope of the invention. Other embodiments are contemplated within the scope of the present invention in addition to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that a surface cleaning device and / or agitator may embody any one or more of the features contained herein, and that the features may be used in any particular combination or subcombination. Modifications and substitutions made by those skilled in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present invention, which should not be limited except as by the claims.

Claims

1. An agitator, an elongated main body configured to rotate about a pivot axis, the elongated main body having a first end region, a second end region disposed opposite the first end region, and a central region disposed between the first end region and the second end region; one or more soft cleaning features coupled to and extending outwardly of a substantial portion of a surface of the elongate main body, the one or more soft cleaning features defining a plurality of channels, the plurality of channels including a first and a second channel, the first channel extending from the first end region and terminating in the central region, and the second channel extending from the second end region and terminating in the central region; at least first and second resiliently deformable flaps at least partially disposed within each of the first and second channels.

2. The agitator of claim 1 , wherein the first resiliently deformable flap extends beyond an outer surface of the one or more soft cleaning features.

3. The agitator of claim 1 , wherein the first channel has a U-shape.

4. The agitator of claim 1 , wherein the first channel has a V-shape.

5. 2. The agitator of claim 1, wherein the first channel is configured to allow the first elastically deformable flap to move from front to rear as the agitator rotates about the pivot axis.

6. 2. The agitator of claim 1, wherein the first and second resiliently deformable flaps each extend from the elongated main body.

7. 2. The agitator of claim 1, wherein the first and second channels partially overlap longitudinally within the central region as the agitator rotates about the pivot axis.

8. 2. The agitator of claim 1, wherein the first elastically deformable flap extends from the first end region to the central region and the second elastically deformable flap extends from the second end region to the central region.

9. 2. The agitator of claim 1, wherein the first and second elastically deformable flaps partially overlap longitudinally within the central region as the agitator rotates about the pivot axis.

10. An agitator, an elongated main body configured to rotate about a pivot axis, the elongated main body having a first end region, a second end region disposed opposite the first end region, and a central region disposed between the first end region and the second end region; one or more flexible cleaning features connected to and extending outwardly of a substantial portion of a surface of the main elongate body; a plurality of channels extending through the one or more soft cleaning features, the plurality of channels including first and second channels, the first channel extending from the first end region and terminating in the central region, and the second channel extending from the second end region and terminating in the central region; a plurality of elastically deformable flaps, including first and second elastically deformable flaps at least partially disposed within each of the first and second channels, whereby the first and second elastically deformable flaps can move forward and backward as the agitator rotates about the pivot axis.

11. The agitator of claim 1 , wherein the elongated main body has a generally cylindrical shape.

12. 2. The agitator of claim 1, wherein said elongated main body has a tapered shape with said central region having a smaller cross section than said first end region and said second end region.

13. The agitator of claim 1 , wherein the at least one channel includes a base and two side walls.

14. The agitator of claim 13 , wherein the base is defined by the elongated main body.

15. 14. The agitator of claim 13, wherein one or more of the side walls extend substantially perpendicular to the surface of the main elongate body.

16. 14. The agitator of claim 13, wherein one or more of the side walls extend at an obtuse and / or acute angle relative to the surface of the main elongate body.

17. The agitator of claim 1 , wherein the at least one channel extends from the first end region of the elongate main body generally toward the central region.

18. 2. The agitator of claim 1, wherein portions of the first and second channels longitudinally overlap one another within the central region as the agitator rotates about the pivot axis.

19. 11. The agitator of claim 10, wherein the soft cleaning feature extends across an entire surface of the cylindrical portion of the main elongate body except for the one or more channels.

20. The agitator of claim 10 , wherein the soft cleaning feature is formed from a single monolithic piece of material.

21. The agitator of claim 10 , wherein the soft cleaning features are formed from a plurality of separate pieces that are coupled to the main body.

22. 11. The agitator of claim 10 further comprising bristles.

23. 23. The agitator of claim 22, wherein the bristles are substantially adjacent to the at least one elastically deformable flap.

24. 11. The agitator of claim 10, wherein the at least one resiliently deformable flap includes a taper.

25. 25. The agitator of claim 24, wherein a height of the at least one elastically deformable flap in at least a portion of a first end region of the at least one elastically deformable flap is less than a height of the at least one elastically deformable flap in a central region of the at least one elastically deformable flap.

26. 26. The agitator of claim 25, wherein a second end region of the at least one elastically deformable flap is configured to be disposed about an end region of the main body and the first end region of the at least one elastically deformable flap is configured to be disposed about a central region of the main body.

27. 27. The agitator of claim 26, wherein the second end region of the at least one resiliently deformable flap has a taper configured to be at least partially received within an end cap.

28. 26. The agitator of claim 25, wherein the taper of the first end region of the at least one elastically deformable flap is configured to enhance movement of hair along the agitator toward a central region of the agitator.

29. 30. The agitator of claim 28, wherein the taper of the first end region of the at least one elastically deformable flap is configured to collect and store dislodged hair.

Images