Cleaner

Abstract

To improve usability of a cleaner.SOLUTION: A cleaner comprises: a main body housing; a dust collection housing attachable / detachable to / from the main body housing and having an inlet port; a suction assembly stored in the main body housing so as to allow the inlet port to generate suction force; a first filter unit stored in the dust collection unit and including a first filter to which air sucked from the inlet port is supplied and a first support member which supports the first filter; a filter support mechanism for allowing the first filter unit to be fixed to the main body housing at a fixing position in a rotation direction by allowing the first filter unit to be rotated in a normal rotation direction with respect to the main body housing; and a reverse rotation restriction mechanism for restricting the first filter unit from rotating at a restriction angle or more in a reverse rotation direction from the fixing position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 30

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a cleaner. [Background technology]

[0002] In the technical field related to cleaners, a portable cleaner as disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known. In Patent Document 1, the portable cleaner includes a filter device. In Patent Document 1, the filter device is fixed to the housing when rotated in a first direction, and is removed from the housing when rotated in a second direction. Also, in Patent Document 1, a rotation prevention mechanism is provided to prevent the filter device attached to the housing from being further rotated in the first direction. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6347196 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] To improve ease of use of the cleaner by the user, a technique is desired that allows the filter device to be easily attached to and detached from the housing.

[0005] The technology disclosed in this specification aims to improve the usability of the cleaner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] This specification discloses a cleaner comprising: a main housing, a dust-collection housing that is detachably attached to the main housing and has an air intake, a suction assembly that is housed in the main housing and generates a suction force at the air intake, a first filter unit that is housed in the dust-collection housing and has a first filter to which air sucked through the air intake is supplied and a first support member that supports the first filter, a filter support mechanism that fixes the first filter unit to the main housing at a fixed position in the rotation direction by rotating the first filter unit in the forward direction relative to the main housing, and a reverse rotation limiting mechanism that limits the first filter unit from rotating in the reverse direction from the fixed position by more than a limited angle. Effect of the Invention

[0007] The technology disclosed in this specification improves the usability of the cleaner. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing a cleaner according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a view of the cleaner according to the first embodiment as viewed from the right side. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the cleaner according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the cleaner according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the front. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a front portion of the main body housing and a filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a front portion of a main body housing and a filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the front part of the main body housing and the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a view of the filter assembly according to the first embodiment as viewed from the right side. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a rear view of the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a front view of the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an exploded front perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the rear. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view showing the rear part of the first filter unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a view of the rear part of the first filter unit according to the first embodiment as viewed from above. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view showing the rear part of the second filter unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a view of the rear part of the second filter unit according to the first embodiment as viewed from above. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating a method of assembling the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing a method of mounting the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a front view showing a method of mounting the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a front view showing a method of mounting the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a front view showing a method of mounting the filter assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a front view showing the flange immediately before it enters the support groove according to the first embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a perspective view showing the flange immediately after it enters the support groove according to the first embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing a portion of the filter assembly fixed to the main body housing according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 is a perspective view for explaining the reverse rotation limiting mechanism according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a front perspective view showing a filter assembly according to the second embodiment. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is a rear perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the second embodiment. [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 is a view of the filter assembly according to the second embodiment as viewed from the right side. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 is a rear view of the filter assembly according to the second embodiment. [Diagram 35] FIG. 35 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a filter assembly according to the second embodiment. [Diagram 36] FIG. 36 is an exploded front perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the second embodiment. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is an exploded rear perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the second embodiment. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a perspective view showing a method of assembling the filter assembly according to the second embodiment. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is an exploded perspective view showing a front portion of a main body housing and a filter assembly according to the third embodiment. [Diagram 40]FIG. 40 is a front perspective view showing a filter assembly according to the third embodiment. [Diagram 41] FIG. 41 is a rear perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the third embodiment. [Diagram 42] FIG. 42 is a right side view of the filter assembly according to the third embodiment. [Diagram 43] FIG. 43 is a rear view of the filter assembly according to the third embodiment. [Diagram 44] FIG. 44 is a front view of the filter assembly according to the third embodiment. [Diagram 45] FIG. 45 is an exploded front perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the third embodiment. [Figure 46] FIG. 46 is an exploded rear perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the third embodiment. [Figure 47] FIG. 47 is a front view of a main body housing to which a filter assembly according to the third embodiment is attached. [Figure 48] FIG. 48 is an exploded perspective view showing a front portion of a main body housing and a filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is a front perspective view showing a filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 50] FIG. 50 is a rear perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 51] FIG. 51 is a view of the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment as viewed from the right side. [Figure 52] FIG. 52 is a rear view of the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 53] FIG. 53 is a front view of the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 54] FIG. 54 is an exploded front perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 55]FIG. 55 is an exploded rear perspective view showing the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 56] FIG. 56 is a perspective view showing a method of assembling the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the cleaner comprises a main housing, a dust collection housing that is detachable from the main housing and has an air intake, a suction assembly that is housed in the main housing and generates suction at the air intake, a first filter unit that is housed in the dust collection housing and has a first filter to which air sucked in from the air intake is supplied and a first support member that supports the first filter, a filter support mechanism that fixes the first filter unit to the main housing at a fixed position in the rotational direction by rotating the first filter unit in a forward direction relative to the main housing, and a reverse limit mechanism that limits rotation of the first filter unit in the reverse direction from the fixed position by more than a limited angle.

[0010] In the above configuration, since the rotation of the first filter unit in the reverse direction is restricted, excessive fluctuation in the relative position between the first filter unit and the main body housing in the rotation direction is suppressed when the first filter unit is attached to or removed from the main body housing. In other words, when the first filter unit is attached to or removed from the main body housing, it is easy to position the first filter unit and the main body housing in the rotation direction. In addition, the first filter unit is smoothly attached to the main body housing by rotating in the forward direction. Therefore, the workability is good when attaching the first filter unit to or removing it from the main body housing. Therefore, the usability of the cleaner is improved.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the filter support mechanism releases the first filter unit from the main housing when the first filter unit is rotated a release angle in a reverse direction from the fixed position.

[0012] In the above configuration, the first filter unit is smoothly removed from the main housing by being rotated in the reverse direction.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the limit angle comprises a release angle.

[0014] In the above configuration, since the release angle is a limited angle, when the first filter unit is removed from the main body housing, the first filter unit is prevented from rotating in the reverse direction more than the release angle. In other words, when the first filter unit is removed from the main body housing, the first filter unit is prevented from unnecessarily rotating more than the release angle.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the first support member has a first rear support part that supports a rear end of the first filter, and a flange part that protrudes radially outward from the first rear support part. The main body housing is disposed at the front of the main body housing, and has a front plate part having a suction port, an inner cylindrical part disposed to surround the suction port, an outer cylindrical part disposed to surround the inner cylindrical part, and an engagement part that protrudes radially inward from the inner surface of the outer cylindrical part. The inner cylindrical part is surrounded by the first rear support part, and the outer cylindrical part is surrounded by the rear end of the dust collection housing. A support groove is provided between the rear surface of the engagement part and the front surface of the front plate part. The filter support mechanism includes a flange part. The first filter unit is rotated in the normal direction relative to the main body housing, and the flange part is inserted into the support groove, thereby fixing the first filter unit to a fixed position.

[0016] In the above configuration, the first filter unit is fixed to the main body housing by being rotated in the forward direction.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a portion of the first rear support portion that contacts the engagement portion when the first filter unit is rotated by the limit angle in the reverse direction from the fixed position.

[0018] In the above configuration, the shape of the first rear support portion is such that it contacts the engagement portion when the first filter unit rotates in the reverse direction from the fixed position by the limited angle, thereby restricting the first filter unit from rotating in the reverse direction from the fixed position by more than the limited angle.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the cleaner includes a forward rotation limiting mechanism that limits forward rotation of the first filter unit from a fixed position.

[0020] In the above configuration, when the first filter unit is attached to the main body housing, the first filter unit is prevented from unnecessarily rotating beyond the fixed position.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the forward rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a portion of the first rear support portion that contacts the engagement portion when the first filter unit is disposed in the fixed position.

[0022] In the above configuration, the first rear support portion is shaped so that it comes into contact with the engagement portion when the first filter unit moves beyond the fixed position, thereby restricting the first filter unit from rotating beyond the fixed position.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the first rear support part is arranged at a point-symmetrical position with respect to the rotation axis of the first filter unit, and has a pair of straight parts parallel to each other and a pair of arc parts arranged adjacent to the straight parts in the rotation direction. A pair of flange parts are provided so as to be arranged adjacent to the arc parts in the rotation direction. A pair of engagement parts are provided in the rotation direction. After the first rear support part is inserted inside the outer tube part so that the straight parts and the engagement parts match, the first filter unit is rotated in the forward direction, whereby the flange parts are inserted into the support grooves.

[0024] In the above configuration, the first filter unit is smoothly attached to the main housing by being rotated in the forward direction.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes a straight portion that contacts the engagement portion when the first filter unit is rotated by the limit angle in the reverse direction from the fixed position.

[0026] In the above configuration, the first rear support portion has a straight portion that contacts the engagement portion when the first filter unit rotates in the reverse direction from the fixed position by the limited angle, thereby limiting the rotation of the first filter unit in the reverse direction from the fixed position by more than the limited angle.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the first rear support portion is disposed forward of the flange portion and has an inclined portion that is inclined radially inward toward the forward rotation direction. The forward rotation limiting mechanism includes an inclined portion that contacts the engagement portion when the first filter unit is disposed at the fixed position.

[0028] In the above configuration, the first rear support portion has an inclined portion that comes into contact with the engagement portion when the first filter unit moves beyond the fixed position, thereby restricting the first filter unit from rotating beyond the fixed position.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, the cleaner includes a second filter unit having a second filter to which air that has passed through the first filter is supplied and a second support member that supports the second filter. The second filter unit is fixed to the first filter unit while being disposed inside the first filter unit.

[0030] In the above configuration, the first filter unit and the second filter unit are fixed, and therefore, by fixing the first filter unit to the main body housing, the second filter unit is fixed to the main body housing via the first filter unit.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, the second support member has a second rear support part that supports a rear end of the second filter. The second rear support part has a cylindrical part and a plurality of protrusions that protrude radially outward from the cylindrical part. The protrusions fit inside the first rear support part, thereby fixing the second filter unit to the first filter unit.

[0032] In the above configuration, the first filter unit and the second filter unit are properly fixed.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the second support member has a second rear support part that supports a rear end of the second filter. The second rear support part has a cylindrical part and an annular flange part that protrudes radially outward from the cylindrical part. The flange part fits inside the first rear support part, thereby fixing the second filter unit to the first filter unit.

[0034] In the above configuration, the first filter unit and the second filter unit are properly fixed.

[0035] In one or more embodiments, the second rear support portion is provided at the rear of the tube portion and has an annular seal portion that contacts the front surface of the front plate portion.

[0036] In the above configuration, the boundary between the filter assembly including the first filter unit and the second filter unit and the main housing is sealed.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the first support member has a first front support portion that supports a front end of the first filter, the second support member has a second front support portion that supports a front end of the second filter, and the second front support portion is fixed to the first front support portion while being disposed inside the first front support portion.

[0038] In the above configuration, the first filter unit and the second filter unit are properly fixed.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the first front support part has an annular part surrounding the second front support part and a plurality of protrusions protruding radially inward from an inner surface of the annular part. The second front support part is fixed to the first front support part by fitting inside the plurality of protrusions.

[0040] In the above configuration, the first filter unit and the second filter unit are properly fixed.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, the first filter unit is secured to the body housing with the second filter unit secured to the first filter unit.

[0042] In the above configuration, the filter assembly including the first filter unit and the second filter unit and the main housing are properly fixed.

[0043] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiment, the positional relationship of each part will be described using the terms "front", "rear", "left", "right", "upper", and "lower". These terms indicate relative positions or directions based on the center of the cleaner 1.

[0044] The cleaner 1 has a fan motor 3A. The rotor of the fan motor 3A rotates around a rotation axis AX. In the embodiment, the radial direction of the rotation axis AX is appropriately referred to as the radial direction. The direction going around the rotation axis AX is appropriately referred to as the circumferential direction or the rotation direction. The direction parallel to the rotation axis AX is appropriately referred to as the axial direction.

[0045] In the radial direction, a position or direction closer to the rotation axis AX is referred to as the radially inner or inner direction, as appropriate, and a position or direction farther from the rotation axis AX is referred to as the radially outer or outer direction, as appropriate. A position or direction on one side in the circumferential direction is referred to as the forward side or forward direction, as appropriate, and a position or direction on the other side in the circumferential direction is referred to as the reverse side or reverse direction, as appropriate. A position or direction on one side in the axial direction is referred to as the front side or front direction, as appropriate, and a position or direction on the other side in the axial direction is referred to as the rear side or rear direction, as appropriate.

[0046] [First embodiment] A first embodiment will be described.

[0047] <Cleaner> Fig. 1 is a front perspective view of the cleaner 1 according to this embodiment. Fig. 2 is a right side view of the cleaner 1 according to this embodiment. Fig. 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the cleaner 1 according to this embodiment. Fig. 4 is an exploded front perspective view of the cleaner 1 according to this embodiment.

[0048] The cleaner 1 includes a housing 2, a suction assembly 3, a filter assembly 4, a battery mounting portion 6, a controller 7, and an interface device 8.

[0049] The housing 2 has a handle 9 that is held by a user of the cleaner 1. The cleaner 1 is a handy cleaner that allows a cleaning operation to be performed while the handle 9 is held by the user.

[0050] The housing 2 accommodates the suction assembly 3, the filter assembly 4, and the controller 7. The housing 2 has an intake port 10 and an exhaust port 11. The intake port 10 is provided at the front end of the housing 2. The exhaust ports 11 are provided at the left and right rear portions of the housing 2. The intake port 10 connects the external space and the internal space of the housing 2. The exhaust port 11 connects the internal space and the external space of the housing 2.

[0051] The housing 2 includes a dust-collection housing 21 and a main body housing 22. The handle 9 is provided on the main body housing 22. The main body housing 22 is disposed rearward of the dust-collection housing 21. The dust-collection housing 21 is detachably attached to the main body housing 22. In the embodiment, the dust-collection housing 21 is detachably attached to the front end portion of the main body housing 22.

[0052] The suction assembly 3 and the controller 7 are each housed in a main body housing 22. The battery mounting portion 6 is disposed in the main body housing 22. The filter assembly 4 is housed in a dust-collection housing 21.

[0053] The air intake 10 is provided at the front end of the dust-collection housing 21. In the embodiment, a connection pipe portion 16 is provided at the front of the dust-collection housing 21. The air intake 10 is provided at the front end of the connection pipe portion 16.

[0054] The main body housing 22 includes a left housing 22L and a right housing 22R. The left housing 22L is disposed to the left of the right housing 22R. The left housing 22L and the right housing 22R are fixed together with a plurality of screws (not shown). An exhaust port 11 is provided in the main body housing 22. An exhaust port 11 is provided in each of the left housing 22L and the right housing 22R.

[0055] The suction assembly 3 generates a suction force at the intake port 10. The suction assembly 3 has a fan motor 3A and a control board 3B. The fan motor 3A includes a motor and a fan rotated by the motor. The fan is disposed forward of the motor. The fan rotates about a rotation axis AX by the rotational force generated by the motor. The fan is a centrifugal fan. The control board 3B outputs a control signal to control the motor. The control board 3B has, for example, a field effect transistor (FET).

[0056] A cover 12 is disposed around the suction assembly 3. The cover 12 houses the suction assembly 3. The cover 12 is fixed to the main housing 22. The suction assembly 3 is supported by the main housing 22 via the cover 12. The cover 12 has an inlet 13 and an outlet 14. The inlet 13 is provided at the front end of the cover 12. The outlet 14 is provided rearward of the inlet 13.

[0057] The filter assembly 4 collects dust from the air sucked in through the intake port 10. The filter assembly 4 is disposed between the intake port 10 and the suction assembly 3 in the internal space of the housing 2. The filter assembly 4 has a first filter unit 30 and a second filter unit 50. The air sucked into the internal space of the housing 2 through the intake port 10 is supplied to the first filter unit 30. The air that has passed through the first filter unit 30 is supplied to the second filter unit 50. The first filter unit 30 collects dust from the air that has flowed into the internal space of the housing 2 through the intake port 10. The second filter unit 50 collects dust that the first filter unit 30 has not been able to collect.

[0058] The battery mounting portion 6 is disposed at the lower rear portion of the housing 2. The battery pack 5 is mounted in the battery mounting portion 6. The battery pack 5 is attachable to and detachable from the battery mounting portion 6.

[0059] The battery pack 5 functions as a power supply unit for the cleaner 1. The battery pack 5 supplies power to the cleaner 1 when attached to the battery attachment unit 6. The motor of the fan motor 3A is driven by power supplied from the battery pack 5. The controller 7 operates by power supplied from the battery pack 5. The battery pack 5 is a general-purpose battery that can be used as a power supply unit for various electrical devices. The battery pack 5 can be used as a power supply unit for power tools. The battery pack 5 can be used as a power supply unit for electrical devices other than power tools. The battery pack 5 can be used as a power supply unit for a cleaner other than the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment. The battery pack 5 includes a lithium ion battery. The battery pack 5 includes a rechargeable secondary battery. The battery attachment unit 6 has a structure equivalent to that of a battery attachment unit of a power tool.

[0060] A user of the cleaner 1 can mount the battery pack 5 on the battery mounting section 6 and remove the battery pack 5 from the battery mounting section 6. The battery mounting section 6 has a guide member and a main body terminal. The battery pack 5 has a battery terminal. The guide member of the battery mounting section 6 guides the battery pack 5. The main body terminal of the battery mounting section 6 is connected to the battery terminal of the battery pack 5. A user can mount the battery pack 5 on the battery mounting section 6 by inserting the battery pack 5 into the battery mounting section 6 from the rear side. The battery pack 5 is inserted into the battery mounting section 6 while being guided by the guide member. By mounting the battery pack 5 on the battery mounting section 6, the battery terminal of the battery pack 5 and the main body terminal of the battery mounting section 6 are electrically connected. The battery pack 5 has a fixing release button. A user of the cleaner 1 can remove the battery pack 5 from the battery mounting section 6 by operating the fixing release button of the battery pack 5 and moving the battery pack 5 to the rear side.

[0061] The controller 7 controls the electrically-driven members mounted on the cleaner 1. The controller 7 controls the motor of the fan motor 3A via the control board 3B. The controller 7 controls the drive current supplied from the battery pack 5 to the motor. The controller 7 and the control board 3B are connected via a cable. Examples of the cable include a power cable for supplying power from the battery pack 5 to the motor and a signal cable for supplying control signals to the control board 3B. The controller 7 includes a board on which a plurality of electronic components are mounted. Examples of the electronic components mounted on the board include a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or storage, a volatile memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), and a resistor.

[0062] The interface device 8 is provided on the handlebar 9. The interface device 8 includes a drive button, a mode switching button, and a display unit. The drive button and the mode switching button are operated by a user. The user can operate the drive button and the mode switching button while gripping the handlebar 9.

[0063] When the drive button is operated while the fan motor 3A is stopped, the motor starts to be driven. When the mode switch button is operated while the motor is driving, the motor speed is adjusted in four stages. By changing the motor speed, the suction force at the air intake 10 is changed. When the drive button is operated while the motor is driving, the motor stops. The display unit has a plurality of light-emitting elements. Examples of the light-emitting elements include light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Based on the motor speed, each of the four light-emitting elements is switched between on and off.

[0064] Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the front part of the main body housing 22 and the filter assembly 4 according to this embodiment. Fig. 5 corresponds to an enlarged view of a part of Fig. 4. Fig. 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing the front part of the main body housing 22 and the filter assembly 4 according to this embodiment. Fig. 6 corresponds to the cross-sectional view of Fig. 5. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the front part of the main body housing 22 and the filter assembly 4 according to this embodiment.

[0065] The main housing 22 has an annular front plate portion 24 having a suction port 23 of the main housing 22, an inner cylindrical portion 25 arranged to surround the suction port 23, an outer cylindrical portion 26 arranged to surround the inner cylindrical portion 25, and an engagement portion 27 protruding radially inward from the inner surface of the outer cylindrical portion 26.

[0066] The front plate portion 24 is disposed at the front of the main housing 22. The front plate portion 24 is annular. The suction port 23 is provided at the front of the main housing 22. The inlet 13 of the cover 12 is disposed inside the suction port 23.

[0067] The inner tubular portion 25 protrudes forward from the front surface of the front plate portion 24. The inner tubular portion 25 is surrounded by the rear end portion of the first filter unit 30.

[0068] The outer cylindrical portion 26 protrudes forward from the front surface of the front plate portion 24. The outer cylindrical portion 26 is surrounded by the rear end portion of the dust-collection housing 21.

[0069] 3, an opening 15 is provided at the rear end of the dust-collection housing 21. The outer tubular portion 26 of the main body housing 22 is inserted into the opening 15 of the dust-collection housing 21. The outer tubular portion 26 is surrounded by the rear end of the dust-collection housing 21. The dust-collection housing 21 is attached to the main body housing 22 by inserting the outer tubular portion 26 of the main body housing 22 into the opening 15 of the dust-collection housing 21.

[0070] The engagement portion 27 protrudes radially inward from the inner surface of the outer tubular portion 26. A pair of engagement portions 27 are provided in the rotational direction. One engagement portion 27 is connected to an upper portion of the inner surface of the outer tubular portion. The other engagement portion 27 is connected to a lower portion of the inner surface of the outer tubular portion. The engagement portions 27 are disposed forward of the front plate portion 24. In the following description, one engagement portion 27 will be appropriately referred to as the upper engagement portion 27, and the other engagement portion 27 will be appropriately referred to as the lower engagement portion 27.

[0071] A support groove 28 is provided between the rear surface of the engagement portion 27 and the front surface of the front plate portion 24. A pair of support grooves 28 are provided. One support groove 28 is provided between the rear surface of the upper engagement portion 27 and the upper part of the front surface of the front plate portion 24. The other support groove 28 is provided between the rear surface of the lower engagement portion 27 and the lower part of the front surface of the front plate portion 24. In the following description, one support groove 28 will be appropriately referred to as the upper support groove 28, and the other support groove 28 will be appropriately referred to as the lower support groove 28.

[0072] <Filter Assembly> FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is a right side view of the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a rear view of the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 12 is a front view of the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view of the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment, which corresponds to the cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 10. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment, which corresponds to the cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 10. FIG. 16 is an exploded front perspective view of the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 17 is an exploded rear perspective view of the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of the rear part of the first filter unit according to the present embodiment. FIG. 19 is a top view of the rear part of the first filter unit according to the present embodiment. FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of the rear part of the second filter unit according to the present embodiment. FIG. 21 is a view of the rear part of the second filter unit according to this embodiment as viewed from above.

[0073] The filter assembly 4 has a first filter unit 30 and a second filter unit 50. The filter assembly 4 is attached to the main body housing 22 by being rotated relative to the main body housing 22. In the embodiment, the rotation axis of the filter assembly 4 is coaxial with the rotation axis AX of the fan motor 3A. Note that the rotation axis of the filter assembly 4 may be offset from the rotation axis AX of the fan motor 3A.

[0074] The first filter unit 30 has a first filter 31 and a first support member 32 that supports the first filter 31. Note that the first filter 31 is shown by virtual lines in Figures 8, 9, 16, and 17, and is omitted from the other figures.

[0075] The first filter 31 is a mesh filter. The first filter 31 includes a cylindrical portion 31A and a front portion 31B disposed at the front end of the cylindrical portion 31A. Air sucked in through the intake port 10 is supplied to the first filter 31. The first filter 31 collects dust from the air sucked in through the intake port 10.

[0076] The first support member 32 supports the first filter 31. The first support member 32 has an annular first rear support part 33 that supports the rear end part of the first filter unit 30, an annular first front support part 34 that supports the front end part of the first filter unit 30, a plurality of linear parts 35 that connect the first rear support part 33 and the first front support part 34, and a plurality of linear parts 36 that are arranged inside the first front support part 34.

[0077] When the filter assembly 4 is fixed to the main housing 22 , the inner cylindrical portion 25 of the main housing 22 is surrounded by the first rear support portion 33 .

[0078] The first rear support portion 33 is arranged at a point-symmetrical position with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30, and has a pair of straight portions 37 parallel to each other, a pair of arc portions 38 arranged adjacent to the straight portions 37 in the rotation direction, a pair of flat portions 39 arranged adjacent to the arc portions 38 in the rotation direction, a pair of flange portions 40 protruding radially outward from the flat portions 39, and a pair of inclined portions 41 arranged forward of the flange portions 40 and inclined radially inward toward the forward rotation direction. The arc portions 38 are arranged adjacent to the straight portions 37 on the forward rotation direction side. The flange portions 40 are arranged adjacent to the arc portions 38 on the forward rotation direction side.

[0079] The straight portion 37 is a part of the outer periphery of the first rear support portion 33. The straight portion 37 is provided so as to extend in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis AX in a tangent direction to an imaginary circle centered on the rotation axis AX.

[0080] The arc portion 38 is a part of the outer periphery of the first rear support part 33. The arc portion 38 is provided so as to bulge outward in the radial direction in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis AX. The arc portion 38 is point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30.

[0081] The flat surface portion 39 is a part of the outer periphery of the first rear support portion 33. The flat surface portion 39 is point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30.

[0082] The flange portion 40 is point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30. The inclined portion 41 is point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30.

[0083] The axial dimension of the straight portion 37 and the arc portion 38 is a first dimension Da. The axial dimension of the flat portion 39 is a second dimension Db that is smaller than the first dimension Da.

[0084] The first front support portion has an annular portion , a circular portion 43, and a plurality of protrusions 44 that protrude radially inward from the inner surface of the annular portion .

[0085] The second filter unit 50 includes a second filter 51 and a second support member 52 that supports the second filter 51 .

[0086] The second filter 51 is a HEPA filter. The second filter 51 is cylindrical. The air that has passed through the first filter 31 is supplied to the second filter 51. The second filter 51 collects dust that the first filter 31 has not been able to collect.

[0087] The second support member 52 supports the second filter 51. The second support member 52 has a second rear support portion 53 that supports the rear end portion of the second filter 51 and a second front support portion 54 that supports the front end portion of the second filter 51.

[0088] The second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30. The second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30 in a state in which the second filter unit 50 is disposed inside the first filter unit 30.

[0089] The second rear support part 53 is fixed to the first rear support part 33 while being disposed inside the first rear support part 33. The second front support part 54 is fixed to the first front support part 34 while being disposed inside the first front support part 34.

[0090] The second rear support portion 53 has a cylindrical portion 55, a plurality of protrusions 56 protruding radially outward from the cylindrical portion 55, and an annular seal portion 57 provided at the rear of the cylindrical portion 55. When the filter assembly 4 is fixed to the main body housing 22, the seal portion 57 comes into contact with the front surface of the front plate portion 24.

[0091] <How to Assemble the Filter Assembly> Next, a method for assembling and attaching the filter assembly 4 according to this embodiment will be described. Fig. 22 is a perspective view showing a method for assembling the filter assembly 4 according to this embodiment.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 22, when assembling the filter assembly 4, the second filter unit 50 is inserted into the first filter unit 30 from the rear of the first filter unit 30. The second filter unit 50 is inserted into the first filter unit 30 so that the second front support part 54 is surrounded by the annular part 42 of the first front support part 34. The second front support part 54 is supported by the multiple protrusions 44. The second front support part 54 fits into the inner side of the multiple protrusions 44. The second front support part 54 is fixed to the first front support part 34 by fitting into the inner side of the multiple protrusions 44. In addition, the multiple protrusions 56 of the second rear support part 53 fit into the inner side of the first rear support part 33. The multiple protrusions 56 fit into the inner side of the second rear support part 53, so that the second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30.

[0093] The filter assembly 4 is attached to the main body housing 22 with the second filter unit 50 fixed to the first filter unit 30. With the second filter unit 50 fixed to the first filter unit 30, the first filter unit 30 is fixed to the main body housing 22, whereby the filter assembly 4 is fixed to the main body housing 22.

[0094] 7, with the second filter unit 50 fixed to the main housing together with the first filter unit 30, the inner cylindrical portion 25 of the main housing 22 is surrounded by the first rear support portion 33 of the first support member 32. With the second filter unit 50 fixed to the main housing 22 together with the first filter unit 30, the seal portion 57 comes into close contact with the front surface of the front plate portion 24. With the second filter unit 50 fixed to the main housing 22 together with the first filter unit 30, the boundary between the main housing 22 and the second filter unit 50 is sealed by the annular seal portion 57 provided at the rear of the cylindrical portion 55.

[0095] <How to install the filter assembly> Next, a method of mounting the filter assembly 4 according to this embodiment to the main body housing 22 will be described. Fig. 23 is a perspective view showing the mounting method of the filter assembly 4 according to this embodiment. Fig. 24 is a front view showing the mounting method of the filter assembly 4 according to this embodiment. Fig. 25 is a front view showing the mounting method of the filter assembly 4 according to this embodiment. Fig. 26 is a front view showing the mounting method of the filter assembly 4 according to this embodiment.

[0096] 23 and 24, the rear end of the first support member 32 is inserted into the inside of the outer tubular portion 26 so that the straight portion 37 and the engaging portion 27 coincide with each other. That is, the rear end of the first support member 32 is inserted into the inside of the outer tubular portion 26 so that the outer surface of the straight portion 37 and the inner surface of the engaging portion 27 face each other.

[0097] 25, after the rear end of 30 is inserted inside 26, the first filter unit 30 is rotated in the forward direction. The second filter unit 50 rotates in the forward direction together with the first filter unit 30.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 26, when the first filter unit 30 is rotated in the forward direction relative to the main housing 22, a pair of flange portions 40 protruding radially outward from the rear end portion of the first support member 32 are inserted into the support groove 28 of the main housing 22.

[0099] Fig. 27 is a front view showing the flange 40 immediately before entering the support groove 28 according to this embodiment. Fig. 28 is a perspective view showing the flange immediately after entering the support groove 28 according to this embodiment.

[0100] The rear end of the first support member 32 elastically deforms in the radial direction. When the flange 40 enters the support groove 28, the rear end of the first support member 32 elastically deforms so as to bend radially inward. As shown in Fig. 28, when the filter assembly 4 is further rotated in the forward direction from a state in which the end of the flange 40 on the forward rotation direction side is in contact with the inner surface of the support groove 28, the rear end of the first support member 32 elastically deforms so as to bend radially inward.

[0101] After the filter assembly 4 is further rotated in the forward direction and the flange 40 is fully inserted into the support groove 28, the rear end of the first support member 32 elastically deforms radially outward so that the flange 40 approaches the inner surface of the support groove 28. A clicking sensation is provided by the rear end of the first support member 32 elastically deforming radially outward.

[0102] The filter assembly 4 is attached to the filter housing 22 by inserting the flange portion 40 into the support groove 28. The filter assembly 4 is fixed at a fixed position in the rotational direction by inserting the flange portion 40 into the support groove 28. The flange portion 40 functions as a filter support mechanism that fixes the filter assembly 4 at a fixed position in the rotational direction by rotating the filter assembly 4 in the forward direction relative to the main housing 22.

[0103] FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing a part of the filter assembly 4 fixed to the main body housing 22 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 26 and FIG. 29, when the flange portion 40 is inserted into the support groove 28 and the filter assembly 4 is arranged at the fixed position, at least a part of the first rear support portion 33 contacts the engagement portion 27. In the embodiment, when the filter assembly 4 is arranged at the fixed position, the outer surface of the inclined portion 41 contacts the inner surface of the engagement portion 27. The outer surface of the inclined portion 41 contacts the inner surface of the engagement portion 27, thereby restricting the filter assembly 4 from further rotating in the forward direction from the fixed position. The inclined portion 41 functions as a forward rotation limiting mechanism that restricts the filter assembly 4 from rotating in the forward direction from the fixed position.

[0104] The flange portion 40, which is a filter support mechanism, releases the filter assembly 4 from the main body housing 22 when the filter assembly 4 is rotated in the reverse direction from the fixed position by a release angle. In other words, when the filter assembly 4 is rotated in the reverse direction from the fixed position by about 90 degrees so as to change from the state shown in Fig. 26 to the state shown in Fig. 24, the flange portion 40 is removed from the support groove 28, and the filter assembly 4 is released from the main body housing 22. In this embodiment, the release angle is about 90 degrees.

[0105] In an embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes a reverse rotation limiting mechanism that limits the filter assembly 4 from rotating in the reverse direction from the fixed position by a limit angle or more. In an embodiment, the limit angle includes the above-mentioned release angle. That is, the reverse rotation limiting mechanism limits the filter assembly 4 from rotating in the reverse direction from the fixed position by 90 degrees or more. Note that the limit angle may be greater than the release angle. The reverse rotation limiting mechanism may limit the filter assembly 4 from rotating in the reverse direction from the fixed position by, for example, 100 degrees or more.

[0106] 30 is a perspective view for explaining the reverse rotation limiting mechanism according to the present embodiment. The reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a part of the first rear support part 33 that contacts the inner side of the engagement part 27 when the first filter unit 30 is rotated in the reverse direction by the limit angle from the fixed position. In the embodiment, the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes a straight part 37 that contacts the inner side of the engagement part 27 when the first filter unit 30 is rotated in the reverse direction by the limit angle from the fixed position. The reverse rotation limiting mechanism may include a boundary between the arc part 38 and the straight part 37, or may include the arc part 38.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 30, even if an attempt is made to rotate the filter assembly 4 in the reverse direction from the fixed position by more than 90 degrees, the straight portion 37 of the first dimension Da contacts the inner surface of the engagement portion 27, so that the filter assembly 4 cannot rotate in the reverse direction by more than 90 degrees (more than the limit angle) from the fixed position.

[0108] <Cleaner operation> When the drive button of the interface device 8 is operated and the fan motor 3A is driven, the fan motor 3A rotates. As the fan motor 3A rotates, a suction force is generated at the intake port 10. As a result of the suction force being generated at the intake port 10, the air in the external space of the housing 2 is sucked into the intake port 10 together with dust. The air sucked in from the intake port 10 flows into the internal space of the housing 2. The air that flows into the internal space of the housing 2 passes through the first filter 31. The first filter 31 captures dust contained in the air. The air that has passed through the first filter 31 passes through the second filter 51. The second filter 51 captures dust that the first filter 31 has not been able to capture. The air that has passed through the second filter 51 passes through the inlet 13 of the cover 12, passes through the fan motor 3A, and then passes through the outlet 14 of the cover 12. The air that has flowed out from the outlet 14 is discharged from the exhaust port 11 to the external space of the housing 2.

[0109] <Effects> As described above, in this embodiment, the cleaner 1 comprises a main housing 22, a dust collection housing 21 that is detachably attached to the main housing 22 and has an air intake 10, a suction assembly 3 that is housed in the main housing 22 and generates a suction force at the air intake 10, a first filter unit 30 that is housed in the dust collection housing 21 and has a first filter 31 to which air sucked in from the air intake 10 is supplied and a first support member 32 that supports the first filter 31, a filter support mechanism that fixes the first filter unit 30 to the main housing 22 at a fixed position in the rotational direction by rotating the first filter unit 30 in the forward direction relative to the main housing 22, and a reverse rotation limiting mechanism that limits the first filter unit 30 from rotating in the reverse direction from the fixed position by more than a limited angle.

[0110] In the above configuration, since the rotation of the first filter unit 30 in the reverse direction is restricted, when the first filter unit 30 is attached to or removed from the main body housing 22, the relative position between the first filter unit 30 and the main body housing 22 in the rotation direction is suppressed from fluctuating excessively. That is, when the first filter unit 30 is attached to or removed from the main body housing 22, the first filter unit 30 and the main body housing 22 are easily positioned in the rotation direction. In addition, the first filter unit 30 is smoothly attached to the main body housing 22 by being rotated in the forward direction. Therefore, the workability is good when attaching the first filter unit 30 to or removing it from the main body housing 22. Therefore, the usability of the cleaner 1 is improved.

[0111] In this embodiment, the filter support mechanism releases the first filter unit 30 from the main housing 22 when the first filter unit 30 is rotated from the fixed position in the reverse direction by the release angle.

[0112] In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 can be smoothly removed from the main housing 22 by rotating it in the reverse direction.

[0113] In this embodiment, the limit angle includes the release angle.

[0114] In the above configuration, since the release angle is a limited angle, the first filter unit 30 is prevented from rotating in the reverse direction beyond the release angle when the first filter unit 30 is removed from the main body housing 22. In other words, when the first filter unit 30 is removed from the main body housing 22, the first filter unit 30 is prevented from unnecessarily rotating beyond the release angle.

[0115] In this embodiment, the first support member 32 has a first rear support part 33 that supports the rear end part of the first filter 31, and a flange part 40 that protrudes radially outward from the first rear support part 33. The main body housing 22 is disposed at the front part of the main body housing 22 and has a front plate part 24 having a suction port 23, an inner cylindrical part 25 that is disposed so as to surround the suction port 23, an outer cylindrical part 26 that is disposed so as to surround the inner cylindrical part 25, and an engagement part 27 that protrudes radially inward from the inner surface of the outer cylindrical part 26. The inner cylindrical part 25 is surrounded by the first rear support part 33, and the outer cylindrical part 26 is surrounded by the rear end part of the dust collection housing 21. A support groove 28 is provided between the rear surface of the engagement part 27 and the front surface of the front plate part 24. The filter support mechanism includes the flange part 40. The first filter unit 30 is rotated in the normal direction relative to the main body housing 22, and the flange portion 40 is inserted into the support groove 28, whereby the first filter unit 30 is fixed at a fixed position.

[0116] In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 is fixed to the main body housing 22 by being rotated in the forward direction.

[0117] In this embodiment, the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a portion of the first rear support portion 33 that comes into contact with the engagement portion 27 when the first filter unit 30 is rotated by the limit angle in the reverse direction from the fixed position.

[0118] In the above configuration, the shape of the first rear support portion 33 is such that it contacts the engagement portion 27 when the first filter unit 30 rotates in the reverse direction from the fixed position by the limited angle, thereby restricting the first filter unit 30 from rotating in the reverse direction from the fixed position by more than the limited angle.

[0119] In this embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes a forward rotation limiting mechanism that limits the rotation of the first filter unit 30 in the forward rotation direction from the fixed position.

[0120] In the above configuration, when the first filter unit 30 is attached to the main body housing 22, the first filter unit 30 is prevented from unnecessarily rotating beyond the fixed position.

[0121] In this embodiment, the forward rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a portion of the first rear support portion 33 that contacts the engagement portion 27 when the first filter unit 30 is placed in the fixed position.

[0122] In the above configuration, the shape of the first rear support portion 33 is such that it contacts the engagement portion 27 when the first filter unit 30 passes beyond the fixed position, thereby restricting the first filter unit 30 from rotating beyond the fixed position.

[0123] In this embodiment, the first rear support part 33 is arranged at a point-symmetrical position with respect to the rotation axis of the first filter unit 30, and has a pair of straight parts 37 parallel to each other, and a pair of arc parts 38 arranged adjacent to the straight parts 37 in the rotation direction. A pair of flange parts 40 are provided so as to be arranged adjacent to the arc parts 38 in the rotation direction. A pair of engagement parts 27 are provided in the rotation direction. After the first rear support part 33 is inserted inside the outer tube part 26 so that the straight parts 37 and the engagement parts 27 coincide with each other, the first filter unit 30 is rotated in the forward direction, whereby the flange part 40 is inserted into the support groove 28.

[0124] In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 is smoothly attached to the main body housing 22 by being rotated in the normal direction.

[0125] In this embodiment, the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes a straight portion 37 that comes into contact with the engagement portion 27 when the first filter unit 30 is rotated by the limit angle in the reverse direction from the fixed position.

[0126] In the above configuration, the first rear support portion 33 has a straight portion 37 that contacts the engagement portion 27 when the first filter unit 30 rotates in the reverse direction from the fixed position by the limited angle, thereby limiting the rotation of the first filter unit 30 in the reverse direction from the fixed position by more than the limited angle.

[0127] In this embodiment, the first rear support portion 33 is disposed forward of the flange portion 40 and has an inclined portion 41 that inclines radially inward toward the forward rotation direction. The forward rotation limiting mechanism includes the inclined portion 41 that contacts the engagement portion 27 when the first filter unit 30 is disposed at the fixed position.

[0128] In the above configuration, the first rear support portion 33 has an inclined portion 41 that contacts the engagement portion 27 when the first filter unit 30 passes beyond the fixed position, thereby restricting the first filter unit 30 from rotating beyond the fixed position.

[0129] In this embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes a second filter unit 50 having a second filter 51 to which air that has passed through the first filter 31 is supplied, and a second support member 52 that supports the second filter 51. The second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30 while being disposed inside the first filter unit 30.

[0130] In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 are fixed, and therefore, by fixing the first filter unit 30 to the main body housing 22, the second filter unit 50 is fixed to the main body housing 22 via the first filter unit 30.

[0131] In this embodiment, the second support member 52 has a second rear support part 53 that supports the rear end part of the second filter 51. The second rear support part 53 has a cylindrical part 55 and a plurality of protrusions 56 that protrude radially outward from the cylindrical part 55. The protrusions 56 fit into the inside of the first rear support part 33, whereby the second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30.

[0132] In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 are properly fixed together.

[0133] In this embodiment, the second rear support portion 53 is provided at the rear of the tube portion 55 and has an annular seal portion 57 that contacts the front surface of the front plate portion 24.

[0134] In the above-described configuration, the boundary between the filter assembly 4 including the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 and the main housing 22 is sealed.

[0135] In this embodiment, the first support member 32 has a first front support part 34 that supports a front end part of the first filter 31. The second support member 52 has a second front support part 54 that supports a front end part of the second filter 51. The second front support part 54 is fixed to the first front support part 34 while being disposed inside the first front support part 34.

[0136] In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 are properly fixed together.

[0137] In this embodiment, the first front support part 34 has an annular part 42 that surrounds the second front support part 54, and a plurality of protrusions 44 that protrude radially inward from the inner surface of the annular part 42. The second front support part 54 fits into the inner side of the plurality of protrusions 44, whereby the second front support part 54 is fixed to the first front support part 34.

[0138] In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 are properly fixed together.

[0139] In this embodiment, the first filter unit 30 is fixed to the main body housing 22 with the second filter unit 50 fixed to the first filter unit 30 .

[0140] In the above configuration, the filter assembly 4 including the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 and the main housing 22 are properly fixed.

[0141] [Second embodiment] A second embodiment will be described below. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of those components will be simplified or omitted.

[0142] FIG. 31 is a front perspective view of the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 32 is a rear perspective view of the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 33 is a right side view of the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 34 is a rear view of the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 35 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 36 is an exploded front perspective view of the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 37 is an exploded rear perspective view of the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 38 is a perspective view showing a method of assembling the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment.

[0143] The filter assembly 4B has a first filter unit 30 and a second filter unit 50B. The first filter unit 30 is the same as the first filter unit 30 described in the first embodiment above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0144] The second filter unit 50B has a second rear support portion 53B that supports the rear end portion of the second filter 51. The second rear support portion 53B has a cylindrical portion 55 and an annular flange portion 58 that protrudes radially outward from the cylindrical portion 55. The flange portion 58 is a rubber membrane. The flange portion 58 is flexible. The flange portion 58 is elastically deformable.

[0145] 38 , when assembling the filter assembly 4B, the second filter unit 50B is inserted into the inside of the first filter unit 30 from the rear of the first filter unit 30. The flange portion 58 fits into the inside of the first rear support portion 33, whereby the second rear support portion 53B is fixed to the first rear support portion 33, and the second filter unit 50B is fixed to the first filter unit 30.

[0146] As described above, in this embodiment, the second rear support part 53B that supports the rear end part of the second filter 51 has the cylindrical part 55 and the annular flange part 58 that protrudes radially outward from the cylindrical part 55. The flange part 58 fits inside the first rear support part 33, whereby the second filter unit 50B is fixed to the first filter unit 30.

[0147] In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50B are properly fixed together.

[0148] [Third embodiment] A third embodiment will be described below. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of those components will be simplified or omitted.

[0149] FIG. 39 is an exploded perspective view showing the front part of the main body housing 22 and the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 40 is a front perspective view showing the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 41 is a rear perspective view showing the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 42 is a right side view of the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 43 is a rear view of the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 44 is a front view of the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 45 is an exploded front perspective view of the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 46 is an exploded rear perspective view of the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 47 is a front view of the main body housing 22 to which the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment is attached.

[0150] The filter assembly 4C includes a first filter unit 30 and a second filter unit 50B. The second filter unit 50 is the same as the second filter unit 50 described in the first embodiment above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0151] The first support member 32C of the first filter unit 30C has a first rear support portion 33C that supports the rear end portion of the first filter 31.

[0152] The first rear support part 33C is arranged in a point-symmetrical position with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30C, and has a pair of straight parts 37C that are parallel to each other, a pair of arc parts 38C that are arranged adjacent to the straight parts 37C in the rotational direction, a pair of elastic deformation parts 45 that are supported on the straight parts 37C so as to be elastically deformable, a handle part 46 that protrudes circumferentially from the elastic deformation parts 45, and a hook part 47 that protrudes radially outward from the rear end part of the elastic deformation part 45.

[0153] The arc portion 38C is point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30C. The handle portion 46 is point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30C. The hook portion 47 is point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30C.

[0154] The straight portions 37C are provided on the upper and lower portions of the first rear support portion 33C. The straight portions 37C extend in the left-right direction. The upper surface of the upper straight portion 37C can face the inner surface of the upper engagement portion 27. The lower surface of the lower straight portion 37C can face the inner surface of the lower engagement portion 27.

[0155] The arcuate portions 38C are provided on the left and right portions of the first rear support portion 33C. The left surface of the left arcuate portion 38C can face the left inner surface of the outer cylindrical portion 26. The right surface of the right arcuate portion 38C can face the right inner surface of the outer cylindrical portion 26.

[0156] The upper elastic deformation portion 45 protrudes leftward from the left end of the upper straight portion 37C. The upper elastic deformation portion 45 can be elastically deformed such that the right end of the upper elastic deformation portion 45 serves as a fulcrum and the left end of the upper elastic deformation portion 45 moves up and down. The upper handle portion 46 protrudes leftward from the front of the left end of the upper elastic deformation portion 45. The user can elastically deform the upper elastic deformation portion 45 downward by pushing the handle portion 46 downward. The upper hook portion 47 protrudes upward from the rear of the upper elastic deformation portion 45. The upper hook portion 47 is inserted into the upper support groove 28.

[0157] The lower elastic deformation portion 45 protrudes rightward from the right end of the lower straight portion 37C. The lower elastic deformation portion 45 can be elastically deformed such that the left end of the lower elastic deformation portion 45 serves as a fulcrum and the right end of the lower elastic deformation portion 45 moves up and down. The lower handle portion 46 protrudes rightward from the front of the right end of the lower elastic deformation portion 45. The user can elastically deform the lower elastic deformation portion 45 upward by pushing the handle portion 46 upward. The lower hook portion 47 protrudes downward from the rear of the lower elastic deformation portion 45. The lower hook portion 47 is inserted into the lower support groove 28.

[0158] When assembling the filter assembly 4C, the second filter unit 50B is inserted into the inside of the first filter unit 30C from the rear of the first filter unit 30C. The second filter unit 50B is fixed to the first filter unit 30C by fitting the protrusion 56 into the inside of the first rear support portion 33C.

[0159] When attaching the filter assembly 4C to the main housing 22, the user operates the handle portion 46 so that the upper elastic deformation portion 45 elastically deforms downward and the lower elastic deformation portion 45 elastically deforms upward. With the elastic deformation portion 45 kept elastically deformed, the user inserts the rear end of the first support member 32C into the inside of the outer tubular portion 26 so that the straight portion 37C and the engagement portion 27 coincide with each other. After the rear end of the first support member 32C is inserted into the inside of the outer tubular portion 26, the elastic deformation of the elastic deformation portion 45 is released, so that the left end of the upper elastic deformation portion 45 moves upward and the right end of the lower elastic deformation portion 45 moves downward. The left end of the upper elastic deformation portion 45 moves upward, so that the upper hook portion 47 is inserted into the upper support groove 28. The right end of the lower elastic deformation portion 45 moves downward, so that the lower hook portion 47 is inserted into the lower support groove 28. The hook portion 47 is inserted into the support groove 28, whereby the filter assembly 4C is attached to the main body housing 22.

[0160] As described above, in this embodiment, the filter assembly 4C can be attached to the main body housing 22 without being rotated.

[0161] [Fourth embodiment] A fourth embodiment will be described below. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of those components will be simplified or omitted.

[0162] FIG. 48 is an exploded perspective view showing the front part of the main body housing 22 and the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 49 is a front perspective view showing the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 50 is a rear perspective view showing the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 51 is a right side view of the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 52 is a rear view of the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 53 is a front view of the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 54 is an exploded front perspective view showing the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 55 is an exploded rear perspective view showing the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 56 is a perspective view showing a method of assembling the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment.

[0163] The filter assembly 4D has a first filter unit 30D and a second filter unit 50D.

[0164] The first support member 32D of the first filter unit 30D has a first rear support portion 33D that supports the rear end portion of the first filter 31.

[0165] The first rear support portion 33D is arranged in a point-symmetric position with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30D, and has a pair of straight portions 37D that are parallel to each other, a pair of arc portions 38D that are arranged adjacent to the straight portions 37D in the rotational direction, and hook portions 48 that are arranged on each of the pair of straight portions 37D.

[0166] The arc portion 38D is point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30D. The hook portion 48 is point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30D.

[0167] The straight portions 37D are provided on the left and right portions of the first rear support portion 33D and extend in the up-down direction.

[0168] The arcuate portions 38D are provided on the upper and lower portions of the first rear support portion 33D. The flange portion 40 and the inclined portion 41 described in the first embodiment are provided adjacent to each of the pair of arcuate portions 38D.

[0169] The hook portions 48 are disposed on the left and right portions of the first rear support portion 33D. At least a portion of the hook portion 48 is disposed inside a notch formed in the straight portion 37D. A front end portion of the hook portion 48 is connected to at least a portion of the straight portion 37D. The hook portion 48 can be elastically deformed such that the front end portion of the hook portion 48 serves as a fulcrum and the rear end portion of the hook portion 48 moves in the radial direction.

[0170] The second rear support portion 53D of the second filter unit 50D has an engagement portion 59 that protrudes radially outward. The engagement portion 59 has a rectangular ring shape. The engagement portions 59 are disposed on the left and right portions of the second rear support portion 53D. The second rear support portion 53D also has a plurality of protrusions 56D that fit into the inside of the first rear support portion 33D.

[0171] 56, when assembling a filter assembly 4D, the second filter unit 50D is inserted into the inside of the first filter unit 30D from the rear of the first filter unit 30D. The hook portion 48 is hooked onto the engagement portion 59, and the multiple protrusions 56D fit into the inside of the first rear support portion 33D, thereby fixing the second rear support portion 53D to the first rear support portion 33D, and thus fixing the second filter unit 50D to the first filter unit 30D.

[0172] After the second filter unit 50D is fixed to the first filter unit 30D, the filter assembly 4D is rotated in the normal direction relative to the main body housing 22, whereby the flange portion 40 is inserted into the support groove 28. By inserting the flange portion 40 into the support groove 28, the filter assembly 4D is fixed to the main body housing 22.

[0173] As described above, in this embodiment, the hook portions 48 are hooked onto the engagement portions 59, thereby fixing the second filter unit 50D to the first filter unit 30D.

[0174] [Other embodiments] In the above embodiment, the power supply unit of the cleaner 1 is the battery pack 5 including a secondary battery. The power supply unit of the cleaner 1 may be an AC power supply (commercial power supply). [Explanation of symbols]

[0175] 1...cleaner, 2...housing, 3...suction assembly, 3A...fan motor, 3B...control board, 4...filter assembly, 4B...filter assembly, 4C...filter assembly, 4D...filter assembly, 5...battery pack, 6...battery mounting section, 7...controller, 8...interface device, 9...handle, 10...intake port, 11...exhaust port, 12...cover, 13...inlet, 14...outlet, 15...opening, 16...connection pipe section, 21...dust collection housing, 22...main body housing, 22L...left housing, 22R...right housing, 23...suction port, 24...front plate section, 25...inner cylinder section, 26...outer cylinder section, 27...engagement section, 28...support groove, 30...first filter unit, 30C...first filter unit, 30D...first filter unit, 31...first filter, 31A...cylinder section, 31B...front section, 32...first support member, 32C...first Support member, 32D...first support member, 33...first rear support portion, 33C...first rear support portion, 33D...first rear support portion, 34...first front support portion, 35...linear portion, 36...linear portion, 37...straight portion, 37C...straight portion, 37D...straight portion, 38...arc portion, 38C...arc portion, 38D...arc portion, 39...flat portion, 40...flange portion, 41...inclined portion, 42...annular portion, 43...annular portion, 44...projection portion, 45...elastically deformable portion, 46 ...handle portion, 47...hook portion, 48...hook portion, 50...second filter unit, 50B...second filter unit, 50D...second filter unit, 51...second filter, 52...second support member, 53...second rear support portion, 53B...second rear support portion, 53D...second rear support portion, 54...second front support portion, 55...tubular portion, 56...convex portion, 56D...convex portion, 57...seal portion, 58...flange portion, 59...engagement portion, AX...rotating shaft.

Claims

1. A main body housing; a dust collection housing that is detachably attached to the main body housing and has an air intake; a suction assembly housed in the main housing and configured to generate a suction force at the intake port; a first filter unit accommodated in the dust-collection housing and including a first filter to which air drawn through the air intake is supplied and a first support member supporting the first filter; a filter support mechanism that fixes the first filter unit to the main body housing at a fixed position in a rotation direction by rotating the first filter unit in a normal rotation direction relative to the main body housing; a reverse rotation limiting mechanism that limits rotation of the first filter unit from the fixed position in a reverse direction by a limit angle or more, Cleaner.

2. the filter support mechanism releases the first filter unit from the main body housing when the first filter unit is rotated a release angle in a reverse direction from the fixed position.

2. The cleaner of claim 1.

3. The limit angle includes the release angle.

3. The cleaner of claim 2.

4. The first support member is a first rear support portion that supports a rear end portion of the first filter; a flange portion protruding radially outward from the first rear support portion, The main body housing includes: a front plate portion disposed at a front portion of the main body housing and having a suction port; An inner cylindrical portion arranged to surround the suction port; An outer tubular portion disposed so as to surround the inner tubular portion; an engagement portion protruding radially inward from an inner surface of the outer cylindrical portion, the inner tubular portion is surrounded by the first rear support portion, The outer cylindrical portion is surrounded by a rear end portion of the dust-collection housing, A support groove is provided between the rear surface of the engagement portion and the front surface of the front plate portion, the filter support mechanism includes the flange portion, The first filter unit is rotated in a forward direction relative to the main body housing, and the flange portion is inserted into the support groove, thereby fixing the first filter unit at the fixed position.

2. The cleaner of claim 1.

5. the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a part of the first rear support portion that contacts the engagement portion when the first filter unit is rotated by the limit angle in the reverse rotation direction from the fixed position.

5. The cleaner of claim 4.

6. a forward rotation limiting mechanism that limits rotation of the first filter unit from the fixed position in a forward rotation direction; 5. The cleaner of claim 4.

7. the forward rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a portion of the first rear support portion that contacts the engagement portion when the first filter unit is disposed at the fixed position.

7. The cleaner of claim 6.

8. The first rear support portion is a pair of straight portions that are arranged at positions point-symmetrical with respect to a rotation axis of the first filter unit and parallel to each other; a pair of arcuate portions disposed adjacent to the straight portion in the rotation direction, The flange portion is provided in a pair so as to be disposed adjacent to the arc portion in the rotation direction, The engaging portion is provided in a pair in the rotational direction, the first rear support portion is inserted into the inside of the outer tubular portion so that the straight portion and the engagement portion are aligned, and then the first filter unit is rotated in the normal direction, whereby the flange portion is inserted into the support groove; 6. The cleaner of claim 5.

9. the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes the straight portion that comes into contact with the engagement portion when the first filter unit is rotated by the limit angle in the reverse direction from the fixed position.

9. The cleaner of claim 8.

10. The first rear support portion is disposed forward of the flange portion and has an inclined portion inclined radially inward toward the forward rotation direction, the forward rotation limiting mechanism includes the inclined portion that contacts the engagement portion when the first filter unit is disposed at the fixed position, 7. The cleaner of claim 6.

11. a second filter unit including a second filter to which the air that has passed through the first filter is supplied and a second support member that supports the second filter; The second filter unit is fixed to the first filter unit in a state where the second filter unit is disposed inside the first filter unit.

5. The cleaner of claim 4.

12. The second support member is a second rear support portion that supports a rear end portion of the second filter; The second rear support portion has a cylindrical portion and a plurality of protrusions protruding radially outward from the cylindrical portion, The second filter unit is fixed to the first filter unit by fitting the protrusion into the inside of the first rear support part. The cleaner of claim 11.

13. The second support member is a second rear support portion that supports a rear end portion of the second filter; The second rear support portion has a cylindrical portion and an annular flange portion protruding radially outward from the cylindrical portion, The flange portion is fitted into the inside of the first rear support portion, thereby fixing the second filter unit to the first filter unit. The cleaner of claim 11.

14. the second rear support portion is provided at the rear of the cylindrical portion and has an annular seal portion that contacts the front surface of the front plate portion; 13. The cleaner of claim 12.

15. the first support member has a first front support portion that supports a front end portion of the first filter, the second support member has a second front support portion that supports a front end portion of the second filter, The second front support portion is fixed to the first front support portion while being disposed inside the first front support portion. The cleaner of claim 11.

16. the first front support portion has an annular portion surrounding the second front support portion and a plurality of protrusions protruding radially inward from an inner surface of the annular portion, The second front support portion is fixed to the first front support portion by fitting into the inner sides of the plurality of protrusions.

16. The cleaner of claim 15.

17. The first filter unit is fixed to the main body housing with the second filter unit fixed to the first filter unit. The cleaner of claim 11.

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