Cleaner

Abstract

To prevent the vacuum cleaner from becoming too large. [Solution] The cleaner comprises a main body housing having a suction port, a motor assembly housed in the main body housing and including a fan motor that rotates around a rotation axis and generates suction force at the suction port, and a first flow path provided between the motor assembly and the main body housing in the radial direction of the rotation axis and provided only in a part of the circumferential direction of the rotation axis, extending in a front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis, through which air discharged from the motor assembly flows.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] In the technical field related to cleaners, a cleaner as disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When a cleaner becomes larger, the user of the cleaner may find it difficult to handle.

[0005] The technology disclosed in this specification aims to suppress the enlargement of the cleaner.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] This specification discloses a cleaner. The cleaner includes a main body housing having a suction port, a fan motor accommodated in the main body housing and rotating about a rotation axis, a motor assembly that generates a suction force at the suction port, and a first flow path provided between the motor assembly and the main body housing in the radial direction of the rotation axis and provided only in a part of the circumferential direction of the rotation axis, extending in the front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis, through which the air discharged from the motor assembly flows.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the technology disclosed in this specification, the enlargement of the cleaner is suppressed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a view of the cleaner and extension pipe according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a view of the cleaner according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a view of the cleaner according to the embodiment, seen from the right. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a cleaner according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an exploded view of the cleaner according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an exploded view of the cleaner according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an exploded view of the cleaner according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a cleaner according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a view of a part of the cleaner according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a view of the motor assembly, first elastic member, second elastic member, and third elastic member according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a view of the motor assembly, first elastic member, second elastic member, and third elastic member according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the first elastic member according to the embodiment, viewed from the upper right front. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a view of a part of the cleaner according to the embodiment, seen from the right. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a view of a part of the cleaner according to the embodiment, seen from the right rear. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a cleaner according to an embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the cleaner includes a main body housing having a suction port, a motor assembly that is housed in the main body housing and includes a fan motor that rotates about a rotation axis and generates a suction force at the suction port, and a first flow path that is provided between the motor assembly and the main body housing in the radial direction of the rotation axis, is provided only in a part of the circumferential direction of the rotation axis, extends in the front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis, and through which the air discharged from the motor assembly flows.

[0010] In the above configuration, since the first flow path is provided only in a part of the circumferential direction of the rotation axis, an increase in the size of the cleaner is suppressed. In particular, an increase in the size of the main body housing in the radial direction is suppressed.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the first flow path may be provided above or below or both above and below the motor assembly.

[0012] In the above configuration, since the first flow path is provided above or below or both above and below the motor assembly of the rotation axis, an increase in the size of the main body housing in the left-right direction is suppressed.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the cleaner may include an inlet pipe portion through which the air sent to the suction port flows, and a dust cup disposed in front of the suction port. The inlet pipe portion and the dust cup may be arranged in the vertical direction. The first flow path may be provided above and below the motor assembly, respectively.

[0014] In the above configuration, since the inlet pipe section and the dust cup are arranged vertically, the dimensions of the cleaner in the vertical direction in the inlet pipe section and the dust cup become larger. A dead space is formed behind the inlet pipe section and the dust cup. Since the first flow path is provided above and below the motor assembly respectively, the first flow path is arranged in the dead space behind the inlet pipe section and the dust cup. Since the dead space is effectively utilized, the enlargement of the main body housing in the left-right direction is suppressed. Further, since the air discharged from the motor assembly flows through the first flow path above the motor assembly and the first flow path below the motor assembly respectively, the reduction of the air flow rate is suppressed.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the main body housing may have a first rib protruding from the inner surface of the main body housing and facing a part of the outer surface of the motor assembly, and a second rib protruding from the inner surface of the main body housing and arranged radially outside the first rib. The first flow path may be provided between the first rib and the second rib.

[0016] In the above configuration, the first rib and the second rib of the main body housing can form the first flow path.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the main body housing may have a first rib protruding from the inner surface of the main body housing and facing a part of the outer surface of the motor assembly. The first flow path may be provided radially outside the first rib. The cleaner may include a second flow path provided between the motor assembly and the first rib in the radial direction of the rotation axis, extending in the front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis, and through which the air discharged from the motor assembly flows. The air discharged from the motor assembly may flow forward through the second flow path, pass through the front end portion of the first rib, and then flow backward through the first flow path.

[0018] In the above configuration, the air discharged from the motor assembly flows forward through the second passage and then backward through the first passage. Because the air passage from the motor assembly is longer, noise generation from the cleaner is suppressed.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the cleaner may include a first sound-absorbing member positioned in the first flow path.

[0020] In the above configuration, the first sound-absorbing member suppresses the generation of noise from the cleaner.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the first sound-absorbing member may have a first flow-through hole that penetrates the front and rear surfaces of the first sound-absorbing member.

[0022] In the above configuration, air can flow smoothly toward the rear through the first circulation hole.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the first flow holes may be provided at multiple mutually distinct positions in both the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0024] In the above configuration, air can flow smoothly toward the rear through each of the multiple first flow holes.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the front-to-back dimension of the first sound-absorbing member may be larger than the vertical and left-to-right dimensions of the first sound-absorbing member.

[0026] In the above configuration, the length of the first flow hole in the front-to-back direction is increased, which suppresses the generation of noise caused by the air flowing through the first flow hole.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the main housing may have an exhaust port for discharging air that has flowed through the first flow path. The cleaner may include a second sound-absorbing member positioned inside the main housing opposite the exhaust port. The second sound-absorbing member may have a second flow-through hole that penetrates the front and back surfaces of the second sound-absorbing member. The size of the first flow-through hole and the size of the second flow-through hole may be different.

[0028] In the above configuration, the second sound-absorbing member suppresses the generation of noise from the cleaner.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, the cleaner may include a first elastic member that contacts the front end of the motor assembly and the main body housing, respectively.

[0030] In the above configuration, the first elastic member suppresses the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly to the main housing. As a result, noise generation from the cleaner is suppressed.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, the main housing may be positioned in front of the motor assembly and have a partition wall portion in which a suction port is formed. At least a portion of the first elastic member may be in contact with the inner surface of the suction port. At least a portion of the first elastic member may be in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall portion.

[0032] In the above configuration, at least a portion of the first elastic member contacts the inner surface of the suction port, thus restricting the radial movement of the motor assembly. At least a portion of the first elastic member contacts the rear surface of the partition wall, thus restricting the forward movement of the motor assembly.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the first elastic member may have an annular large-diameter portion that contacts the rear surface of the partition wall and an annular small-diameter portion that protrudes forward from the large-diameter portion and contacts the inner surface of the suction port.

[0034] In the above configuration, the small-diameter portion of the first elastic member contacts the inner surface of the suction port, thus restricting the radial movement of the motor assembly. The large-diameter portion of the first elastic member contacts the rear surface of the partition wall, thus restricting the forward movement of the motor assembly.

[0035] In one or more embodiments, the first elastic member may have a metal mesh portion, a synthetic resin portion to which the metal mesh portion is fixed, and a rubber portion to which the synthetic resin portion is fixed.

[0036] In the above configuration, the metal mesh portion is positioned at the vent of the first elastic member, thereby preventing dust from passing through the vent. The synthetic resin portion ensures the rigidity of the first elastic member. The rubber portion prevents vibrations from the motor assembly from being transmitted to the main housing, thus suppressing noise generation from the cleaner.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the cleaner may include a second elastic member positioned behind the first elastic member and in contact with the motor assembly and the main body housing, respectively.

[0038] In the above configuration, the second elastic member suppresses the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly to the main housing. As a result, noise generation from the cleaner is suppressed.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the second elastic member may be positioned to contact the motor assembly at the location where vibration is minimized when the fan motor rotates.

[0040] In the above configuration, the second elastic member contacts the position in the motor assembly where vibration is least significant, effectively suppressing the transmission of motor assembly vibrations to the main housing. As a result, noise generation from the cleaner is effectively suppressed.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, the radially inner end of the second elastic member may be in contact with the motor assembly, and the radially outer end of the second elastic member may be supported by the main body housing.

[0042] In the above configuration, the motor assembly is radially supported by the main housing via a second elastic member.

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the second elastic member may contact four external surfaces of the intermediate portion of the motor assembly in the front-rear direction.

[0044] In the above configuration, the motor assembly is radially supported by the main housing via four second elastic members.

[0045] In one or more embodiments, the second elastic member may have a body portion supported by the main housing and a support portion having a curved surface that contacts the motor assembly.

[0046] In the above configuration, the contact area between the support and the motor assembly is small, so the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly to the main housing is effectively suppressed. As a result, noise generation from the cleaner is effectively suppressed.

[0047] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings, but this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. The components of the embodiments described below can be combined as appropriate. In addition, some components may not be used.

[0048] In the embodiments, the terms "front," "rear," "left," "right," "up," and "down" are used to describe the positional relationships of each part. These terms indicate relative positions or directions with respect to the center of the cleaner 1.

[0049] [Cleaner Overview] Figure 1 is a view of the cleaner 1 and extension pipe 101 according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. Figure 2 is a view of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. Figure 3 is a view of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment, seen from the right. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 5 is an exploded view of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. Figure 6 is an exploded view of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. Figure 7 is an exploded view of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 8 corresponds to the view taken along line AA in Figure 3.

[0050] In one embodiment, the cleaner 1 is a cyclone cleaner that uses centrifugal force to separate foreign matter from the air. The cleaner 1 is a handheld cleaner that can be used to perform cleaning while being held in the user's hand.

[0051] The cleaner 1 comprises a main body assembly 2, a filter assembly 3, and a dust collection assembly 4. The rear end of an extension pipe 101 is connected to the main body assembly 2. A suction nozzle 100 is connected to the front end of the extension pipe 101. The suction nozzle 100 has a suction port. A rotating brush 102 is positioned at the suction port of the suction nozzle 100. The rotating brush 102 rotates due to the rotational force generated by an electric motor (not shown) located in the suction nozzle 100.

[0052] The main unit assembly 2 includes a main unit housing 5, a battery mounting section 6, a motor assembly 7, an operation panel 9, and a light 10.

[0053] The main housing 5 houses the motor assembly 7. The main housing 5 is made of synthetic resin. The main housing 5 consists of a pair of split housings. The main housing 5 includes a left housing 5L and a right housing 5R. The right housing 5R is positioned to the right of the left housing 5L. The left housing 5L and the right housing 5R are fastened together by a number of screws 5S.

[0054] The main housing 5 has a body section 11, a bulkhead section 16, a grip section 12, a battery holding section 13, and an inlet pipe section 34.

[0055] The fuselage section 11 houses the motor assembly 7. The fuselage section 11 is substantially cylindrical. The bulkhead section 16 is located at the front of the fuselage section 11. The bulkhead section 16 is plate-shaped. The bulkhead section 16 is positioned to cover the opening at the front of the fuselage section 11. The fuselage section 11 and the bulkhead section 16 are integrated. A suction port 14 is provided in the bulkhead section 16. The suction port 14 is located in the center of the bulkhead section 16. An exhaust port 15 is provided in the fuselage section 11. The exhaust ports 15 are located on the left and right sides of the fuselage section 11, respectively.

[0056] The grip portion 12 is held by the user of the cleaner 1. The grip portion 12 is provided so as to extend from the upper part of the body portion 11 toward the rear.

[0057] The battery holder 13 holds the battery pack 17 via the battery mounting section 6. The battery holder 13 is connected to the rear of the body section 11 and the lower end of the rear of the grip section 12.

[0058] The battery mounting section 6 is located at the bottom of the battery holding section 13. The battery pack 17 is mounted in the battery mounting section 6. The battery pack 17 is detachable from the battery mounting section 6.

[0059] The battery pack 17 functions as a power source for the cleaner 1. The battery pack 17 supplies power to the cleaner 1 while installed in the battery mounting section 6. The battery pack 17 is a general-purpose battery usable as a power source for various electrical devices. The battery pack 17 can be used as a power source for power tools. The battery pack 17 can be used as a power source for electrical devices other than power tools. The battery pack 17 can be used as a power source for a cleaner other than the cleaner 1 according to this embodiment. The battery pack 17 includes a lithium-ion battery. The battery pack 17 is a rechargeable battery. The battery mounting section 6 has a structure equivalent to that of the battery mounting section of a power tool.

[0060] The user of Cleaner 1 can install the battery pack 17 into the battery mounting section 6 and remove the battery pack 17 from the battery mounting section 6. The battery mounting section 6 has a guide member that guides the battery pack 17 and main terminals that connect to the battery terminals provided on the battery pack 17. The user can install the battery pack 17 into the battery mounting section 6 by inserting the battery pack 17 into the battery mounting section 6 from the rear. The battery pack 17 is inserted into the battery mounting section 6 while being guided by the guide member. When the battery pack 17 is installed in the battery mounting section 6, the battery terminals of the battery pack 17 and the main terminals of the battery mounting section 6 are electrically connected. The user of Cleaner 1 can remove the battery pack 17 from the battery mounting section 6 by moving the battery pack 17 backward.

[0061] The motor assembly 7 generates an attractive force at the suction port 14 of the main housing 5. The motor assembly 7 is housed in the body portion 11 of the main housing 5. The motor assembly 7 includes a fan motor 8 and a control board 20. The rotor and fan of the fan motor 8 are rotatable around the rotation axis AX. The rotation axis AX extends in the front-rear direction. The motor of the fan motor 8 generates power to rotate the fan. As the fan motor 8 rotates, an attractive force is generated at the suction port 14. The control board 20 outputs control signals to control the fan motor 8. The control board 20 has, for example, a field-effect transistor (FET).

[0062] The control panel 9 is operated by the user of the cleaner 1. The control panel 9 is located on the grip portion 12. The user of the cleaner 1 can operate the control panel 9 while holding the grip portion 12. In this embodiment, the control panel 9 has a mode switching button 9A, a drive button 9B, and a display portion 9C. The mode switching button 9A and the drive button 9B are operated by the user. The user can operate the mode switching button 9A and the drive button 9B while holding the grip portion 12.

[0063] When the fan motor 8 is stopped, the drive button 9B is operated to start the fan motor 8. When the fan motor 8 is running, the mode switching button 9A is operated to adjust the rotation speed of the fan motor 8 in four stages. When the mode switching button 9A is operated once while the fan motor 8 is running, the rotation speed of the fan motor 8 is changed from the first rotation speed to the second rotation speed. When the mode switching button 9A is operated one more time, the rotation speed of the fan motor 8 is changed from the second rotation speed to the third rotation speed. When the mode switching button 9A is operated one more time, the rotation speed of the fan motor 8 is changed from the third rotation speed to the fourth rotation speed. When the mode switching button 9A is operated one more time, the rotation speed of the fan motor 8 returns to the first rotation speed. The suction force at the suction port 14 is changed by changing the rotation speed of the fan motor 8. When the fan motor 8 is running, the drive button 9B is operated to stop the fan motor 8.

[0064] The display unit 9C has four light-emitting units. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are exemplified as light-emitting units. When the fan motor 8 is driven at the first rotational speed, one light-emitting unit lights up. When the fan motor 8 is driven at the second rotational speed, two light-emitting units light up. When the fan motor 8 is driven at the third rotational speed, three light-emitting units light up. When the fan motor 8 is driven at the fourth rotational speed, all four light-emitting units light up. When the fan motor 8 is stopped, all four light-emitting units are off.

[0065] The light 10 is positioned at the front of the grip portion 12. The light 10 illuminates the area in front of the cleaner 1. The light 10 includes a light-emitting element such as an LED.

[0066] The rear end of the extension pipe 101 is inserted into the opening at the front end of the inlet pipe section 34. A locking mechanism 36 is provided at the front end of the inlet pipe section 34. The locking mechanism 36 fixes the inlet pipe section 34 and the extension pipe 101 together. When the locking mechanism 36 is released, the extension pipe 101 is removed from the inlet pipe section 34. The extension pipe 101 is detachable from the inlet pipe section 34.

[0067] The rear end of the extension pipe 101 is inserted into the opening at the front end of the inlet pipe section 34, thereby connecting the power supply terminal 34C of the inlet pipe section 34 with the power receiving terminal of the extension pipe 101. With the power supply terminal 34C of the inlet pipe section 34 and the power receiving terminal of the extension pipe 101 connected, power from the battery pack 17 is supplied to the electric motor located on the suction nozzle 100 via the power supply terminal 34C of the inlet pipe section 34 and the power receiving terminal of the extension pipe 101. When the drive button 9B is operated and the fan motor 8 rotates, the electric motor located on the suction nozzle 100 rotates in sync with the fan motor 8. As the electric motor located on the suction nozzle 100 rotates, the rotating brush 102 rotates.

[0068] As shown in Figure 4, at least a portion of the filter assembly 3 is positioned in front of the main body assembly 2. The filter assembly 3 is positioned opposite the suction port 14 of the main body assembly 2. The filter assembly 3 has a support frame 18 and a filter 19. The support frame 18 supports the filter 19. The filter 19 is positioned in front of the suction port 14 of the main body assembly 2. The filter 19 is permeable. The filter 19 collects foreign matter from the air passing through it. Air flows into the filter 19 from the front. Foreign matter contained in the air is collected by the filter 19. The air that has passed through the filter 19 flows out from the opening at the rear of the filter 19 and then flows into the suction port 14.

[0069] At least a portion of the dust collection assembly 4 is positioned in front of the filter assembly 3. The dust collection assembly 4 includes a cyclone housing 30 and a cyclone dust collection unit 40. The cyclone dust collection unit 40 includes a filter unit 50 and a dust cup 42.

[0070] The cyclone housing 30 is connected to the body section 11. The filter assembly 3 is housed in the rear of the cyclone housing 30. A locking mechanism 37 is provided at the rear end of the cyclone housing 30. As shown in Figures 5 and 7, a recess 11R is provided at the front end of the body section 11. The locking mechanism 37 is located at the lower part of the rear end of the cyclone housing 30. The recess 11R is located at the lower part of the front end of the body section 11. The locking mechanism 37 has a hook portion that is hooked into the recess 11R and an operating lever that moves the hook portion. When the hook portion of the locking mechanism 37 is hooked into the recess 11R, the body section 11 and the cyclone housing 30 are fixed together. When the operating lever is operated and the locking mechanism 37 is released, the cyclone housing 30 is removed from the body section 11. The cyclone housing 30 is detachable from the body section 11.

[0071] The dust cup 42 is connected to the cyclone housing 30. A locking mechanism 44 is provided at the rear end of the dust cup 42. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, a recess 30R is provided at the front end of the cyclone housing 30. The locking mechanism 44 is provided on the left and right sides of the rear end of the dust cup 42. The recess 30R is provided on the left and right sides of the front end of the cyclone housing 30. The locking mechanism 44 has a hook portion that is hooked onto the recess 30R and an operating lever that moves the hook portion. When the hook portion of the locking mechanism 44 is hooked onto the recess 30R, the cyclone housing 30 and the dust cup 42 are fixed together. When the operating lever is operated and the locking mechanism 44 is released, the dust cup 42 is removed from the cyclone housing 30. The dust cup 42 is detachable from the cyclone housing 30.

[0072] As shown in Figure 5, the cyclone housing 30 can be detached from the body 11 while the cyclone housing 30 and the dust cup 42 are fixed together. As shown in Figure 6, the dust cup 42 can be detached from the cyclone housing 30 while the body 11 and the cyclone housing 30 are fixed together. As shown in Figure 7, the dust cup 42 can be detached from the cyclone housing 30 while the cyclone housing 30 is detached from the body 11.

[0073] The cyclone housing 30 is positioned parallel to the inlet pipe section 34 of the main housing 5. The dust cup 42 is positioned parallel to the inlet pipe section 34 of the main housing 5. The cyclone housing 30 is positioned in front of the suction port 14 of the main housing 5. The dust cup 42 is positioned in front of both the suction port 14 of the main housing 5 and the cyclone housing 30. The inlet pipe section 34 and the cyclone housing 30 are positioned vertically. The inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42 are positioned vertically. The cyclone housing 30 and the dust cup 42 are positioned below the inlet pipe section 34.

[0074] The air supplied to the suction port 14 of the main housing 5 flows through the internal passage of the inlet pipe section 34. As shown in Figures 5 and 7, an outlet 33 is provided at the rear of the inlet pipe section 34. The outlet 33 faces downward. An inlet 35 is provided at the top of the cyclone housing 30. The inlet 35 faces upward. With the body section 11 of the main housing 5 and the cyclone housing 30 connected, the outlet 33 and the inlet 35 are connected. The filter assembly 3 is housed at the rear of the cyclone housing 30, behind the outlet 33 and the inlet 35.

[0075] The air flowing through the internal passage of the inlet pipe section 34 flows into the internal space of the cyclone housing 30 via the outlet 33 and inlet 35. The internal space of the cyclone housing 30 and the internal space of the dust cup 42 are connected. The air that flows into the internal space of the cyclone housing 30 is converted into a swirling flow by a swirling member (not shown) and then flows into the internal space of the dust cup 42.

[0076] The rear of the filter unit 50 is positioned within the internal space of the cyclone housing 30. The front of the filter unit 50 is positioned within the internal space of the dust cup 42. Air flowing from the cyclone housing 30 into the dust cup 42 swirls around the filter unit 50. After passing through the filter unit 50, the air in the internal space of the dust cup 42 is discharged from the internal space of the dust cup 42.

[0077] The filter unit 50 includes a pre-filter 51, a sound-absorbing member 52, and a post-filter 53. The sound-absorbing member 52 is positioned around the post-filter 53. At least a portion of the pre-filter 51 is positioned around the sound-absorbing member 52.

[0078] Air flowing from the cyclone housing 30 into the dust cup 42 flows from the outside to the inside of the filter unit 50. Air that has passed through the pre-filter 51 flows through the sound-absorbing member 52. Air that has passed through the sound-absorbing member 52 flows through the post-filter 53.

[0079] The post-filter 53 is made of synthetic resin. In the embodiment, the post-filter 53 is made of ABS resin. The post-filter 53 has a filter tubular portion with a plurality of holes. The holes in the filter tubular portion are formed to penetrate the inner and outer surfaces of the filter tubular portion.

[0080] The sound-absorbing member 52 is positioned around the filter tubular portion of the post-filter 53. The sound-absorbing member 52 includes a cylindrical sponge member. The sponge member is made of urethane resin. The sponge member is a porous material through which air can pass.

[0081] At least a portion of the prefilter 51 is positioned around the sound-absorbing member 52. The prefilter 51 includes a cylindrical mesh member. The mesh member is positioned around the sound-absorbing member 52. The mesh member is made of nylon resin. The mesh member has multiple holes through which air passes.

[0082] As shown in Figure 4, a support plate portion 31 is provided in front of the filter assembly 3 in the cyclone housing 30. An opening 32 is provided in the center of the support plate portion 31. The rear end of the post filter 53 is inserted into the opening 32. The filter unit 50 is detachable from the support plate portion 31 of the cyclone housing 30.

[0083] An outlet is provided at the rear end of the post-filter 53. The rear end of the post-filter 53 is positioned in the opening 32. The space inside the post-filter 53 and the space around the filter assembly 3 are connected via the opening 32. The fan motor 8 can generate suction force on the filter unit 50. When the fan motor 8 is driven and suction force is generated at the suction port 14, suction force is generated at the opening 32 via the filter assembly 3 housed in the internal space of the cyclone housing 30. The generation of suction force at the opening 32 creates negative pressure in the space inside the post-filter 53, generating suction force on the filter unit 50. The negative pressure in the space inside the post-filter 53 causes air to flow from the space around the filter unit 50 towards the space inside the post-filter 53. The space around the filter unit 50 passes through the pre-filter 51, then through the sound-absorbing member 52, then through the post-filter 53, and flows into the space inside the post-filter 53. Air that flows into the space inside the post-filter 53 flows out from the outlet at the rear end of the post-filter 53 and is supplied to the filter assembly 3. The air that has passed through the filter assembly 3 flows into the motor assembly 7 from the suction port 14.

[0084] [Motor Assembly] Figure 9 is a view of a part of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment, seen from the upper right front. Figure 9 is a view of a part of the cleaner 1 with the right housing 5R removed. As shown in Figure 9, the cleaner 1 includes a motor assembly 7, a first elastic member 71 that contacts the front end of the motor assembly 7, a second elastic member 72 that contacts the middle part of the motor assembly 7 in the front-rear direction, and a third elastic member 73 that contacts the rear end of the motor assembly 7.

[0085] Figure 10 is a view of the motor assembly 7, the first elastic member 71, the second elastic member 72, and the third elastic member 73 according to the embodiment, viewed from the upper right front. Figure 10 shows the state in which each of the first elastic member 71, the second elastic member 72, and the third elastic member 73 is in contact with the motor assembly 7. Figure 11 is a view of the motor assembly 7, the first elastic member 71, the second elastic member 72, and the third elastic member 73 according to the embodiment, viewed from the upper right front. Figure 11 shows the state in which each of the first elastic member 71, the second elastic member 72, and the third elastic member 73 is separated from the motor assembly 7.

[0086] The motor assembly 7 includes a motor case 22, a fan cover 24, and a control board 20. The motor case 22 houses the fan motor 8. The fan cover 24 is fixed to the front of the motor case 22. In the fan motor 8, the fan is positioned in front of the motor. The fan cover 24 is positioned to cover the fan.

[0087] The motor case 22 has a cylindrical portion 23 and leg portions 26. The cylindrical portion 23 is arranged to surround the rotating shaft AX. The cylindrical portion 23 is arranged to surround the fan motor 8. The leg portions 26 support the control board 20. The leg portions 26 are provided so as to protrude rearward from the rear end of the cylindrical portion 23. There are two leg portions 26. The two leg portions 26 are positioned facing each other in the radial direction. The rear portions of the leg portions 26 are positioned radially outward from the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23.

[0088] The fan cover 24 has a cylindrical portion 24A, a hook portion 24B, a plate portion 24C, and a rib portion 24D. The cylindrical portion 24A is arranged to surround the rotating shaft AX. The cylindrical portion 24A is arranged around the front of the cylindrical portion 23. The hook portion 24B is hooked onto a claw portion 23A provided on the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23. The fan cover 24 is fixed to the motor case 22 by the hook portion 24B being hooked onto the claw portion 23A. The plate portion 24C is formed to cover the opening at the front end of the cylindrical portion 24A. The plate portion 24C is formed on the inside of the front end of the cylindrical portion 24A. The outer shape of the plate portion 24C is substantially circular. Multiple rib portions 24D are formed between the plate portion 24C and the front end of the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 24A. The rib portions 24D connect the cylindrical portion 24A and the plate portion 24C. Multiple rib sections 24D are provided at intervals in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis AX. The rib sections 24D ensure the rigidity of the fan cover 24. This suppresses a decrease in the strength of the fan cover 24 and prevents deformation of the fan cover 24.

[0089] The motor assembly 7 has an intake port 22A and an exhaust port 22B. The intake port 22A is located at the front end of the motor assembly 7. The exhaust port 22B is located behind the intake port 22A. The intake port 22A is located on the fan cover 24. The intake port 22A is located in the center of the plate portion 24C of the fan cover 24. The intake port 22A is substantially circular in shape. The center of the intake port 22A and the axis of rotation AX substantially coincide. The exhaust port 22B is located at the rear end of the cylindrical portion 23. The exhaust port 22B is located between the rear end of the outer surface of the fan motor 8 and the rear end of the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 23. A case passage 68 is provided between the outer surface of the fan motor 8 and the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 23. Air flowing into the motor assembly 7 (motor case 22) from the intake port 22A flows backward through the case passage 68 and is then discharged from the exhaust port 22B.

[0090] The control board 20 outputs control signals to control the fan motor 8. The control board 20 is supported by the legs 26. The control board 20 is positioned between the two legs 26.

[0091] The first elastic member 71 contacts the front end of the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5, respectively. At least a portion of the first elastic member 71 contacts the fan cover 24. The first elastic member 71 is positioned at the front end of the fan cover 24. The main body housing 5 has a partition wall portion 16 positioned in front of the motor assembly 7. The suction port 14 is formed in the partition wall portion 16. At least a portion of the first elastic member 71 contacts the inner surface of the suction port 14. At least a portion of the first elastic member 71 contacts the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16.

[0092] The first elastic member 71 has an annular large-diameter portion 71A and an annular small-diameter portion 71B that protrudes forward from the large-diameter portion 71A. Each of the large-diameter portion 71A and the small-diameter portion 71B is annular. Each of the large-diameter portion 71A and the small-diameter portion 71B is positioned around the rotation axis AX. The centers of the large-diameter portion 71A and the small-diameter portion 71B each substantially coincide with the rotation axis AX. In the radial direction of the rotation axis AX, the dimension (diameter) of the large-diameter portion 71A is larger than the dimension (diameter) of the small-diameter portion 71B. The front surface of the large-diameter portion 71A contacts the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16. The small-diameter portion 71B is positioned at the suction port 14. The outer surface of the small-diameter portion 71B contacts the inner surface of the suction port 14.

[0093] The first elastic member 71 has a vent 71C. The vent 71C is provided so as to penetrate the front surface of the small-diameter portion 71B and the rear surface of the large-diameter portion 71A. The vent 71C includes the space inside the annular large-diameter portion 71A and the space inside the annular small-diameter portion 71B. As the fan motor 8 rotates, air around the filter assembly 3 flows into the intake port 22A of the motor assembly 7 through the vent 71C.

[0094] When the fan motor 8 rotates and the internal space of the cyclone housing 30 becomes negatively pressurized, the motor assembly 7 moves forward. The front surface of the large-diameter portion 71A contacts the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16, restricting the motor assembly 7 from moving forward. The small-diameter portion 71B is positioned at the suction port 14, restricting the motor assembly 7 from moving radially. The frictional force between the front surface of the large-diameter portion 71A and the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16, and the frictional force between the outer surface of the small-diameter portion 71B and the inner surface of the suction port 14, restrict the motor assembly 7 from moving circumferentially.

[0095] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the first elastic member 71 according to the embodiment, viewed from the upper right front. In this embodiment, the first elastic member 71 has a metal mesh portion 711, a synthetic resin portion 712 to which the metal mesh portion 711 is fixed, and a rubber portion 713 to which the synthetic resin portion 712 is fixed. The synthetic resin portion 712 is arranged to surround the vent 71C. The rubber portion 713 is arranged to surround the vent 71C. At least a portion of the rubber portion 713 is arranged to surround the synthetic resin portion 712. At least a portion of the rubber portion 713 is arranged radially outward from the synthetic resin portion 712. The front part of the inner circumferential surface of the vent 71C is formed by the inner circumferential surface of the synthetic resin portion 712. The rear part of the inner circumferential surface of the vent 71C is formed by the inner circumferential surface of the rubber portion 713. The majority of the surface of the first elastic member 71 is the surface of the rubber portion 713. The rear surface of the large-diameter portion 71A, the outer circumferential surface of the large-diameter portion 71A, the front surface of the large-diameter portion 71A, and the outer circumferential surface of the small-diameter portion 71B are each formed by the surface of the rubber portion 713. The front surface of the small-diameter portion 71B includes the surface of the synthetic resin portion 712 and the surface of the rubber portion 713. The front surface of the small-diameter portion 71B is annular. The peripheral edge of the front surface of the small-diameter portion 71B is formed by the surface of the rubber portion 713. The region radially inward from the surface of the rubber portion 713 on the front surface of the small-diameter portion 71B is formed by the surface of the synthetic resin portion 712. The metal mesh portion 711 is fixed to the synthetic resin portion 712. At least a portion of the metal mesh portion 711 is placed in the vent 71C. The synthetic resin portion 712 is placed around the metal mesh portion 711, for example, by insert molding.

[0096] The second elastic member 72 is positioned rearward of the first elastic member 71. The second elastic member 72 is made of rubber. The second elastic member 72 contacts the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5, respectively. At least a portion of the second elastic member 72 contacts the middle portion of the cylindrical portion 23 of the motor case 22 in the front-rear direction. At least a portion of the second elastic member 72 contacts the inner surface of the body portion 11.

[0097] The second elastic member 72 is positioned to contact the motor assembly 7 at the position where vibration is minimized when the fan motor 8 rotates. The position in the motor assembly 7 where vibration is minimized can be determined, for example, by preliminary experiments or simulations. In this embodiment, the position in the motor assembly 7 where vibration is minimized is at the midpoint of the cylindrical portion 23 in the front-rear direction.

[0098] The second elastic member 72 supports the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23 of the motor case 22 from the radially outer side of the cylindrical portion 23. The radially inner end of the second elastic member 72 contacts the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23 of the motor case 22. The radially outer end of the second elastic member 72 is supported by the body portion 11 of the main housing 5.

[0099] In this embodiment, the second elastic member 72 contacts the outer surface of the middle portion of the cylindrical portion 23 at four locations in the front-rear direction. Four second elastic members 72 are provided. In the front-rear direction, the positions of the four second elastic members 72 are equal to each other. The first second elastic member 72 supports the upper left portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23. The second second elastic member 72 supports the lower left portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23. The third second elastic member 72 supports the upper right portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23. The fourth second elastic member 72 supports the lower right portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23.

[0100] The second elastic member 72 has a body portion 72A supported by the main housing 5 and a support portion 72B that contacts the motor assembly 7. The body portion 72A is supported by retaining ribs 29 (see Figure 8) provided on the inner surface of the body portion 11. The support portion 72B is positioned radially inward from the body portion 72A. The surface of the support portion 72B is curved. At least a portion of the surface of the support portion 72B is spherical. The support portion 72B contacts the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23 of the motor case 22. The support portion 72B makes substantially point contact with the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23. The cylindrical portion 23 is supported by the four support portions 72B. The four second support members 72 restrict the movement of the motor assembly 7, at least in the radial direction.

[0101] The third elastic member 73 is positioned rearward of the second elastic member 72. The third elastic member 73 contacts the motor assembly 7. In this embodiment, the third elastic member 73 is positioned on the leg portion 26 of the motor case 22. The third elastic member 73 has a recess 73A into which the rear portion of the leg portion 26 fits. Two third elastic members 73 are provided, one for each of the two leg portions 26.

[0102] [Flow path] Figure 13 is a view of a part of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment, seen from the right. Figure 14 is a view of a part of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment, seen from the right rear. Figures 13 and 14 each show a part of the cleaner 1 with the right housing 5R removed.

[0103] The cleaner 1 has an inner passage 66 (second passage) through which air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows, and an outer passage 60 (first passage) through which air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows. The outer passage 60 is located radially outward from the inner passage 66. The inner passage 66 and the outer passage 60 are arranged in parallel.

[0104] The outer flow path 60 is provided between the outer surface of the motor assembly 7 (motor case 22) and the inner surface of the body portion 11 of the main housing 5 in the radial direction of the rotating shaft AX. The outer flow path 60 is provided only in a portion of the circumferential direction of the rotating shaft AX. The outer flow path 60 extends in the front-rear direction parallel to the rotating shaft AX. Air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows through the outer flow path 60.

[0105] The outer flow path 60 is provided above and below the motor assembly 7, or both. In this embodiment, the outer flow path 60 is provided above and below the motor assembly 7. In the following description, the outer flow path 60 provided above the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as the outer upper flow path 60A, and the outer flow path 60 provided below the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as the outer lower flow path 60B.

[0106] The main housing 5 has a first rib 27 protruding from the inner surface of the body portion 11 of the main housing 5, and a second rib 28 protruding from the inner surface of the body portion 11 of the main housing 5. The first rib 27 faces a portion of the outer surface of the motor assembly 7. The first rib 27 faces a portion of the outer surface of the motor case 22. The second rib 28 is positioned radially outward from the first rib 27. At least a portion of the first rib 27 and the second rib 28 are positioned at the same location in the front-rear direction. At least a portion of the first rib 27 and the second rib 28 are positioned at the same location in the left-right direction. The first rib 27 and the second rib 28 face each other in the up-down direction.

[0107] As shown in Figure 8, the first rib 27 is provided in both the left housing 5L and the right housing 5R. The first rib 27 of the left housing 5L and the first rib 27 of the right housing 5R are connected. The first rib 27 of the left housing 5L protrudes to the right from the inner surface (right side) of the left housing 5L. The first rib 27 of the right housing 5R protrudes to the left from the inner surface (left side) of the right housing 5R. The right end of the first rib 27 of the left housing 5L and the left end of the first rib 27 of the right housing 5R are connected.

[0108] As shown in Figure 8, the second rib 28 is provided in both the left housing 5L and the right housing 5R. The second rib 28 of the left housing 5L and the second rib 28 of the right housing 5R are connected. The second rib 28 of the left housing 5L protrudes to the right from the inner surface (right side) of the left housing 5L. The second rib 28 of the right housing 5R protrudes to the left from the inner surface (left side) of the right housing 5R. The right end of the second rib 28 of the left housing 5L and the left end of the second rib 28 of the right housing 5R are connected.

[0109] The first rib 27 is provided above and below the motor assembly 7. In the following description, the first rib 27 provided above the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as the first upper rib 27A, and the first rib 27 provided below the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as the first lower rib 27B.

[0110] The second rib 28 is provided above and below the motor assembly 7. In the following description, the second rib 28 provided above the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as the second upper rib 28A, and the second rib 28 provided below the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as the second lower rib 28B.

[0111] The outer channel 60 is provided radially outward from the first rib 27. The outer channel 60 is provided between the first rib 27 and the second rib 28. The outer channel 60 is defined by the first rib 27, the second rib 28 and the inner surface of the fuselage 11. The outer upper channel 60A is defined by the upper surface of the first upper rib 27A, the lower surface of the second upper rib 28A and the inner surface of the fuselage 11. The outer lower channel 60B is defined by the lower surface of the first lower rib 27B, the upper surface of the second lower rib 28B and the inner surface of the fuselage 11.

[0112] In this embodiment, the front end of the second rib 28 is connected to the rear surface of the bulkhead 16. The front end of the first rib 27 is positioned behind the bulkhead 16. The front end of the first rib 27 is separated from the bulkhead 16. The rear of the first upper rib 27A is bent downward. The rear of the first lower rib 27B is bent upward. The rear end of the first upper rib 27A and the rear end of the first lower rib 27B are connected. The rear end of the first upper rib 27A and the rear end of the first lower rib 27B are connected behind the motor assembly 7.

[0113] The inner flow path 66 is provided between the outer surface of the motor assembly 7 and the first rib 27 in the radial direction of the rotating shaft AX. The inner flow path 66 may be provided only in a part of the circumferential direction of the rotating shaft AX, or it may be provided along the entire circumferential direction of the rotating shaft AX. The inner flow path 66 extends in the longitudinal direction parallel to the rotating shaft AX. Air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows through the inner flow path 66.

[0114] In this embodiment, the inner flow paths 66 are provided above and below the motor assembly 7, respectively. In the following description, the inner flow path 66 provided above the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as the inner upper flow path 66A, and the inner flow path 66 provided below the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as the inner lower flow path 66B.

[0115] The inner upper passage 66A is defined by the upper part of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23, the lower surface of the first upper rib 27A, and the inner surface of the body portion 11. The inner lower passage 66B is defined by the lower part of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23, the upper surface of the first lower rib 27B, and the inner surface of the body portion 11.

[0116] In the internal space of the fuselage section 11, an exhaust space 61 is provided behind the outer flow path 60. The exhaust space 61 is defined behind the first rib 27. As described above, the rear end of the first upper rib 27A and the rear end of the first lower rib 27B are connected behind the motor assembly 7. The assembly space in front of the rear ends of the first upper rib 27A and the first lower rib 27B, where the motor assembly 7 is located, and the exhaust space 61 behind the rear ends of the first upper rib 27A and the first lower rib 27B are separated by the rear ends of the first upper rib 27A and the first lower rib 27B. The assembly space includes the space between the first upper rib 27A and the first lower rib 27B in the vertical direction. The assembly space is the space inside the first rib 27 defined by the first upper rib 27A and the first lower rib 27B. Air in the assembly space does not flow into the exhaust space 61 through the rear end of the first upper rib 27A and the rear end of the first lower rib 27B. Air in the exhaust space 61 does not flow into the assembly space through the rear end of the first upper rib 27A and the rear end of the first lower rib 27B. In other words, air does not flow directly between the assembly space and the exhaust space 61.

[0117] The rear end of the outer passage 60 is connected to the exhaust space 61. The air that flows through the outer passage 60 flows into the exhaust space 61. The rear ends of the outer upper passage 60A and the outer lower passage 60B are each connected to the exhaust space 61. The air that flows through the outer upper passage 60A and the air that flows through the outer lower passage 60B merge in the exhaust space 61.

[0118] As shown in Figure 8, the main housing 5 has retaining ribs 29 that protrude from the inner surface of the body portion 11 of the main housing 5. Retaining ribs 29 are provided on both the left housing 5L and the right housing 5R. The retaining rib 29 of the left housing 5L protrudes to the right from the inner surface (right side) of the left housing 5L. The retaining rib 29 of the right housing 5R protrudes to the left from the inner surface (left side) of the right housing 5R.

[0119] The retaining rib 29 faces the first rib 27. The retaining rib 29 includes an upper retaining rib 29A that faces the lower surface of the first upper rib 27A, and a lower retaining rib 29B that faces the upper surface of the first lower rib 27B. The upper retaining rib 29A is positioned below the first upper rib 27A. The lower retaining rib 29B is positioned above the first lower rib 27B.

[0120] The body portion 72A of the second elastic member 72 is inserted between the first rib 27 and the retaining rib 29. The body portion 72A of the second elastic member 72 located in the upper left of the motor assembly 7 is held by the first upper rib 27A and the retaining upper rib 29A of the left housing 5L. The body portion 72A of the second elastic member 72 located in the lower left of the motor assembly 7 is held by the first lower rib 27B and the retaining lower rib 29B of the left housing 5L. The body portion 72A of the second elastic member 72 located in the upper right of the motor assembly 7 is held by the first upper rib 27A and the retaining upper rib 29A of the right housing 5R. The body portion 72A of the second elastic member 72 located in the lower right of the motor assembly 7 is held by the first lower rib 27B and the retaining lower rib 29B of the right housing 5R.

[0121] The cleaner 1 includes a first sound-absorbing member 62 positioned in the outer flow path 60. The first sound-absorbing member 62 is a porous material with open cells. The first sound-absorbing member 62 absorbs sound transmitted through the air, thereby suppressing the generation of noise.

[0122] The outer shape of the first sound-absorbing member 62 is substantially that of a rectangular parallelepiped. The front-to-back dimension of the outer shape of the first sound-absorbing member 62 is larger than the vertical and left-to-right dimensions of the outer shape of the first sound-absorbing member 62. In other words, the outer shape of the first sound-absorbing member 62 is that of a rectangular parallelepiped that is elongated in the front-to-back direction.

[0123] The first sound-absorbing member 62 has first flow holes 621 that penetrate the front and rear surfaces of the first sound-absorbing member 62. The first flow holes 621 are provided at multiple mutually different positions in the vertical and horizontal directions of the first sound-absorbing member 62. In one embodiment, five first flow holes 621 are provided in one first sound-absorbing member 62. The first flow holes 621 extend in the front-rear direction. The five first flow holes 621 are parallel to each other.

[0124] The first sound-absorbing member 62 is positioned in the outer upper channel 60A and the outer lower channel 60B, respectively. In the following description, the first sound-absorbing member 62 positioned in the outer upper channel 60A will be appropriately referred to as the first upper sound-absorbing member 62A, and the first sound-absorbing member 62 positioned in the outer lower channel 60B will be appropriately referred to as the first lower sound-absorbing member 62B.

[0125] Two first sound-absorbing members 62 are arranged in the left-right direction in the outer flow path 60. The right surface of the left first sound-absorbing member 62 and the left surface of the right first sound-absorbing member 62 are in contact. Two first upper sound-absorbing members 62A are arranged in the left-right direction in the outer upper flow path 60A. Two first lower sound-absorbing members 62B are arranged in the left-right direction in the outer lower flow path 60B.

[0126] The cleaner 1 includes a second sound-absorbing member 64 positioned inside the main housing 5, facing the exhaust port 15. The second sound-absorbing member 64 is a porous material with open cells. The second sound-absorbing member 64 absorbs sound transmitted through the air, thereby suppressing the generation of noise.

[0127] The exhaust port 15 faces the exhaust space 61. Air that has flowed through the outer flow path 60 is discharged from the exhaust port 15. The second sound-absorbing member 64 is positioned in the exhaust space 61.

[0128] The second sound-absorbing member 64 is substantially plate-shaped. The left-right dimension of the outer shape of the second sound-absorbing member 64 is smaller than the up-down dimension and the front-to-back dimension of the outer shape of the second sound-absorbing member 64.

[0129] The second sound-absorbing member 64 is positioned opposite to the exhaust port 15 located on the left side of the body portion 11 and the exhaust port 15 located on the right side of the body portion 11. The second sound-absorbing member 64 has a surface facing the center of the internal space of the body portion 11 and a back surface facing the exhaust port 15.

[0130] The second sound-absorbing member 64 has second flow holes 641 that penetrate the front and back surfaces of the second sound-absorbing member 64. The second flow holes 641 are provided at multiple mutually different positions in the vertical and front-to-back directions of the second sound-absorbing member 64. In one embodiment, one second sound-absorbing member 64 is provided with a number of second flow holes 641 greater than the number of first flow holes 621 (5) provided in one first sound-absorbing member 62.

[0131] The size (flow channel cross-sectional area) of one first flow hole 621 is different from the size (flow channel cross-sectional area) of one second flow hole 641. In this embodiment, the size of the first flow hole 621 is smaller than the size of the second flow hole 641.

[0132] [How to use] Next, the method of using the cleaner 1 will be explained. When the drive button 9B is operated and the fan motor 8 starts to rotate, suction force is generated at the suction port 14. As a result of the suction force generated at the suction port 14, suction force is generated at the suction port of the suction nozzle 100. Air sucked in from the suction port of the suction nozzle 100 flows through the internal flow path of the extension pipe 101 and then flows into the internal flow path of the inlet pipe section 34 through the opening at the front end of the inlet pipe section 34. The air that has flowed through the internal flow path of the inlet pipe section 34 flows into the internal space of the cyclone housing 30 via the outlet 33 of the inlet pipe section 34 and the inlet 35 of the cyclone housing 30. The air that has flowed into the internal space of the cyclone housing 30 passes through a swirling member (not shown) and then flows into the internal space of the dust cup 42.

[0133] Air flowing into the internal space of the dust cup 42 swirls within the dust cup 42. Within the dust cup 42, air and dust are separated by centrifugal force. The dust accumulates at the front end of the internal space of the dust cup 42. The air separated from the dust flows from the outside to the inside of the filter unit 50.

[0134] Air flowing from the space surrounding the filter unit 50 into the space inside the post-filter 53 flows out from an outlet provided at the rear end of the post-filter 53 and is supplied to the filter assembly 3. The air that has passed through the filter assembly 3 passes through the vent 71C of the first elastic member 71 located at the intake port 14. The air that has passed through the vent 71C flows into the intake port 22A of the motor assembly 7. The air that has flowed into the intake port 22A flows backward through the case flow path 68 between the outer surface of the fan motor 8 and the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 23, and is then discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7.

[0135] The air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 is supplied to the inner passage 66 between the outer surface of the motor assembly 7 and the first rib 27. The air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows into the inner passage 66 from its rear end. As described above, air does not flow directly between the assembly space and the exhaust space 61. The air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 strikes the front of the rear of the first rib 27, which is located behind the motor assembly 7, and then flows into the inner passage 66 from its rear end.

[0136] The air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows into the inner upper passage 66A and the inner lower passage 66B, respectively. The air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 and flowing into the inner passage 66 from its rear end flows forward through the inner passage 66. After flowing forward through the inner passage 66, the air passes the front end of the first rib 27 and then flows into the outer passage 60 from its front end.

[0137] As described above, the front end of the first rib 27 is positioned behind the partition wall 16 and is separated from the partition wall 16. The front end of the inner flow path 66 and the front end of the outer flow path 60 are connected via the space between the front end of the first rib 27 and the rear surface of the partition wall 16. The first elastic member 71 is in contact (tightly attached) to the partition wall 16. Therefore, air flowing out from the front end of the inner flow path 66 can flow into the outer flow path 60 from its front end.

[0138] Air flowing through the inner upper channel 66A passes through the front end of the first upper rib 27A and then flows into the outer upper channel 60A. Air flowing through the inner lower channel 66B passes through the front end of the first lower rib 27B and then flows into the outer lower channel 60B.

[0139] Air flowing out from the front end of the inner channel 66 and flowing into the outer channel 60 from the front end of the outer channel 60 flows backward through the outer channel 60. In this embodiment, a first sound-absorbing member 62 is placed in the outer channel 60. Air flows through the first flow hole 621 of the first sound-absorbing member 62. Air flows backward through the first flow hole 621 of the first sound-absorbing member 62. In this embodiment, air flowing backward through the outer channel 60 includes air flowing backward through the first flow hole 621.

[0140] The rear end of the outer flow path 60 (the rear end of the first flow hole 621) is connected to the exhaust space 61. The air that flows through the outer flow path 60 flows into the exhaust space 61. The rear end of the outer upper flow path 60A (the rear end of the first flow hole 621 of the first upper sound-absorbing member 62A) and the rear end of the outer lower flow path 60B (the rear end of the first flow hole 621 of the first lower sound-absorbing member 62B) are each connected to the exhaust space 61. The air that flows through the outer upper flow path 60A and the air that flows through the outer lower flow path 60B merge in the exhaust space 61.

[0141] Air flowing into the exhaust space 61 from the outer flow path 60 is discharged to the outside of the main body housing 5 from the exhaust port 15 facing the exhaust space 61. In this embodiment, a second sound-absorbing member 64 is positioned on the inside of the body portion 11 opposite the exhaust port 15. The air in the exhaust space 61 passes through the second flow hole 641 of the second sound-absorbing member 64 before being discharged from the exhaust port 15.

[0142] [effect] As described above, in the embodiment, the cleaner 1 comprises a main body housing 5 having a suction port 14, a motor assembly housed in the main body housing 5 and including a fan motor 8 that rotates around a rotation axis AX and generates suction force at the suction port 14, and an outer flow path 60 which is a first flow path provided between the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5 in the radial direction of the rotation axis AX, and provided only in a part of the circumferential direction of the rotation axis AX, extending in a front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis AX, and through which air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows.

[0143] In the above configuration, since the outer flow path 60 is provided only in a portion of the circumferential direction of the rotating shaft AX, the size of the cleaner 1 is suppressed. In particular, the size of the main housing 5 in the radial direction is suppressed.

[0144] In this embodiment, the outer flow path 60 is provided above and / or below the motor assembly 7.

[0145] In the above configuration, the outer flow path 60 is provided above and / or below the motor assembly 7 of the rotating shaft AX, thereby suppressing an increase in the size of the main housing 5 in the left-right direction.

[0146] In this embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes an inlet pipe section 34 through which air supplied to the suction port 14 flows, and a dust cup 42 positioned in front of the suction port 14. The inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42 are positioned vertically. The outer flow path 60 is provided above and below the motor assembly 7, respectively.

[0147] In the above configuration, the inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42 are arranged vertically, so the dimensions of the cleaner 1 in the vertical direction are increased in the inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42. A dead space is formed behind the inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42. Since the outer flow path 60 is provided above and below the motor assembly 7, the outer flow path 60 is located in the dead space behind the inlet pipe section 34 and the dust cup 42. Because the dead space is effectively utilized, the enlargement of the main housing 5 in the left-right direction is suppressed. In addition, since the air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows through the outer flow path 60 above the motor assembly 7 and the outer flow path 60 below the motor assembly 7, a decrease in airflow is suppressed.

[0148] In this embodiment, the main housing 5 may have a first rib 27 that protrudes from the inner surface of the main housing 5 and faces a portion of the outer surface of the motor assembly 7, and a second rib 28 that protrudes from the inner surface of the main housing 5 and is positioned radially outward from the first rib 27. The outer flow path 60 is provided between the first rib 27 and the second rib 28.

[0149] In the above configuration, the first rib 27 and the second rib 28 of the main housing 5 can form the outer flow path 60.

[0150] In this embodiment, the main housing 5 has a first rib 27 that protrudes from the inner surface of the main housing 5 and faces a portion of the outer surface of the motor assembly 7. The outer passage 60 is provided radially outward from the first rib 27. The cleaner 1 is provided between the motor assembly 7 and the first rib 27 in the radial direction of the rotation axis AX, and includes an inner passage 66 which is a second passage through which air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows, extending in a front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis AX. The air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows forward through the inner passage 66, passes through the front end of the first rib 27, and then flows backward through the outer passage 60.

[0151] In the above configuration, the air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows forward through the inner passage 66 and then backward through the outer passage 60. Since the air passage for the air discharged from the motor assembly 7 is lengthened, the generation of noise from the cleaner 1 is suppressed.

[0152] In one embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes a first sound-absorbing member 62 positioned in the outer flow path 60.

[0153] In the above configuration, the first sound-absorbing member 62 suppresses the generation of noise from the cleaner 1.

[0154] In this embodiment, the first sound-absorbing member 62 has a first flow-through hole 621 that penetrates the front and rear surfaces of the first sound-absorbing member 62.

[0155] In the above configuration, air can flow smoothly toward the rear through the first circulation hole 621.

[0156] In this embodiment, the first flow holes 621 are provided at multiple mutually different positions in both the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0157] In the above configuration, air can flow smoothly toward the rear through each of the multiple first flow holes 621.

[0158] In this embodiment, the front-to-back dimension of the first sound-absorbing member 62 is larger than the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the first sound-absorbing member 62.

[0159] In the above configuration, the length of the first flow hole 621 in the front-to-back direction is increased, so the generation of noise caused by the air flowing through the first flow hole 621 is suppressed.

[0160] In this embodiment, the main housing 5 has an exhaust port 15 for discharging air that has flowed through the outer flow path 60. The cleaner 1 includes a second sound-absorbing member 64 positioned inside the main housing 5, opposite the exhaust port 15. The second sound-absorbing member 64 has a second flow hole 641 that penetrates the front and back surfaces of the second sound-absorbing member 64. The size of the first flow hole 621 and the size of the second flow hole 641 are different.

[0161] In the above configuration, the second sound-absorbing member 64 suppresses the generation of noise from the cleaner 1.

[0162] In this embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes a first elastic member 71 that contacts the front end of the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5, respectively.

[0163] In the above configuration, the first elastic member 71 suppresses the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly 7 to the main housing 5. As a result, the generation of noise from the cleaner 1 is suppressed.

[0164] In this embodiment, the main body housing 5 is positioned in front of the motor assembly 7 and has a partition wall portion 16 in which a suction port 14 is formed. At least a portion of the first elastic member 71 contacts the inner surface of the suction port 14. At least a portion of the first elastic member 71 contacts the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16.

[0165] In the above configuration, at least a portion of the first elastic member 71 contacts the inner surface of the suction port 14, thereby restricting the radial movement of the motor assembly 7. At least a portion of the first elastic member 71 contacts the rear surface of the partition wall 16, thereby restricting the forward movement of the motor assembly 7.

[0166] In this embodiment, the first elastic member 71 has an annular large-diameter portion 71A that contacts the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16, and an annular small-diameter portion 71B that protrudes forward from the large-diameter portion 71A and contacts the inner surface of the suction port 14.

[0167] In the above configuration, the small-diameter portion 71B of the first elastic member 71 contacts the inner surface of the suction port 14, thereby restricting the radial movement of the motor assembly 7. The large-diameter portion 71A of the first elastic member 71 contacts the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16, thereby restricting the forward movement of the motor assembly 7.

[0168] In this embodiment, the first elastic member 71 includes a metal mesh portion 711, a synthetic resin portion 712 to which the metal mesh portion 711 is fixed, and a rubber portion 713 to which the synthetic resin portion 712 is fixed.

[0169] In the above configuration, the metal mesh portion 711 is positioned in the vent 71C of the first elastic member 71, thereby suppressing the passage of dust through the vent 71C. The metal mesh portion 711 also prevents dust from entering the inside of the motor assembly 7. The synthetic resin portion 712 ensures the rigidity of the first elastic member 71. The rubber portion 713 suppresses the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly 7 to the main body housing 5, thus suppressing the generation of noise from the cleaner 1.

[0170] In this embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes a second elastic member 72 positioned behind the first elastic member 71 and in contact with the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5, respectively.

[0171] In the above configuration, the second elastic member 72 suppresses the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly 7 to the main housing 5. As a result, noise generation from the cleaner 1 is suppressed.

[0172] In this embodiment, the second elastic member 72 is positioned to contact the motor assembly 7 at the location where vibration is minimized when the fan motor 8 rotates.

[0173] In the above configuration, the second elastic member 72 contacts the position in the motor assembly 7 where vibration is least significant, effectively suppressing the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly 7 to the main housing 5. As a result, noise generation from the cleaner 1 is effectively suppressed.

[0174] In this embodiment, the radially inner end of the second elastic member 72 contacts the motor assembly 7, and the radially outer end of the second elastic member 72 is supported by the main body housing 5.

[0175] In the above configuration, the motor assembly 7 is radially supported by the main housing 5 via the second elastic member 72.

[0176] In this embodiment, the second elastic member 72 contacts the outer surfaces of the intermediate portion of the motor assembly 7 at four locations in the front-rear direction.

[0177] In the above configuration, the motor assembly 7 is radially supported by the main housing 5 via four second elastic members 72.

[0178] In this embodiment, the second elastic member 72 has a body portion 72A supported by the main housing 5 and a support portion 72B having a curved surface that contacts the motor assembly 7.

[0179] In the above configuration, the contact area between the support portion 72B and the motor assembly 7 is small, so the transmission of vibrations from the motor assembly 7 to the main housing 5 is effectively suppressed. As a result, the generation of noise from the cleaner 1 is effectively suppressed.

[0180] [Other embodiments] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a cleaner 1 according to the embodiment. In the above embodiment, the outer flow path 60 is provided only above and below the motor case 22. That is, the outer flow path 60 consists only of an outer upper flow path 60A and an outer lower flow path 60B. The outer flow path 60 may consist only of the outer upper flow path 60A, or only of the outer lower flow path 60B. The outer flow path 60 may consist only of the outer left flow path 60C provided to the left of the motor case 22. The outer flow path 60 may consist only of the outer right flow path 60D provided to the right of the motor case 22. The outer flow path 60 may consist only of the outer upper left flow path 60E provided to the upper left of the motor case 22. The outer flow path 60 may consist only of the outer lower right flow path 60F provided to the lower right of the motor case 22. The outer flow path 60 may consist only of the outer upper right flow path 60G provided to the upper right of the motor case 22. The outer flow path 60 may consist only of the outer lower left flow path 60H located in the lower left of the motor case 22.

[0181] In the above embodiment, Cleaner 1 is assumed to be a cyclone cleaner. Cleaner 1 does not have to be a cyclone cleaner. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0182] 1...Cleaner, 2...Main unit assembly, 3...Filter assembly, 4...Dust collection assembly, 5…Main housing, 5L…Left housing, 5R…Right housing, 5S…Screw, 6…Battery mounting section, 7…Motor assembly, 8…Fan motor, 9…Operation panel, 9A…Mode switching button, 9B…Drive button, 9C…Display section, 10…Light, 11…Body section, 11R…Recess, 12…Grip section, 13…Battery holder section, 14…Intake port, 15…Exhaust port, 16…Bulkhead section, 17…Battery pack, 18…Support frame, 19…Filter, 20…Control board, 22…Motor case, 22A…Intake port, 22B…Exhaust port 23...Cylinder section, 23A...Claw section, 24...Fan cover, 24A...Cylinder section, 24B...Hook section, 24C...Plate section, 24D...Rib section, 26...Legs, 27...First rib, 27A...First upper rib, 27B...First lower rib, 28...Second rib, 28A...Second upper rib, 28B...Second lower rib, 29...Retaining rib, 29A...Retaining upper rib, 29B...Retaining lower rib, 30...Cyclone housing, 30R...Recess, 31...Support plate section, 32...Opening, 33...Outlet, 34...Inlet pipe section, 34C...Power supply terminal, 35...Inlet, 3 6... Locking mechanism, 37... Locking mechanism, 40... Cyclone dust collection unit, 42... Dust cup, 44... Locking mechanism, 50... Filter unit, 51... Pre-filter, 52... Sound absorbing material, 53... Post-filter, 60... Outer flow path (first flow path), 60A... Outer upper flow path, 60B... Outer lower flow path, 60C... Outer left flow path, 60D... Outer right flow path, 60E... Outer upper left flow path, 60F... Outer lower right flow path, 60G... Outer upper right flow path, 60H... Outer lower left flow path, 61... Exhaust space, 62... First sound absorbing material, 62A... First upper sound absorbing material, 62B... 1 Lower sound-absorbing member, 621...First flow hole, 64...Second sound-absorbing member, 641...Second flow hole, 66...Inner flow path (second flow path), 66A...Inner upper flow path, 66B...Inner lower flow path, 68...Case flow path, 71...First elastic member, 71A...Large diameter section, 71B...Small diameter section, 71C...Ventilation opening, 72...Second elastic member, 72A...Body section, 72B...Support section, 73...Third elastic member, 73A...Recess, 100...Suction nozzle, 101...Extension pipe, 102...Rotating brush, 711...Metal mesh section, 712...Synthetic resin section, 713...Rubber section, AX...Rotating shaft.

Claims

1. A main body housing having a suction port, A motor assembly housed in the main body housing and including a fan motor that rotates around a rotation axis, which generates suction force at the suction port, The first flow path is provided between the motor assembly and the main housing in the radial direction of the rotating shaft, and is provided only in a part of the circumferential direction of the rotating shaft, extending in a front-rear direction parallel to the rotating shaft, through which air discharged from the motor assembly flows. Cleaner.

2. The first flow path is provided above and below the motor assembly, or both. The cleaner according to claim 1.

3. The inlet pipe section through which the air sent to the suction port flows, It comprises a dust cup positioned in front of the aforementioned suction port, The inlet pipe section and the dust cup are arranged in the vertical direction. The first flow path is provided above and below the motor assembly, The cleaner according to claim 1.

4. The main housing has a first rib that protrudes from the inner surface of the main housing and faces a part of the outer surface of the motor assembly, and a second rib that protrudes from the inner surface of the main housing and is positioned radially outward from the first rib. The first flow path is provided between the first rib and the second rib, The cleaner according to claim 1.

5. The main body housing has a first rib that protrudes from the inner surface of the main body housing and faces a part of the outer surface of the motor assembly, The first flow path is provided radially outward from the first rib, A second flow path is provided between the motor assembly and the first rib in the radial direction of the rotation axis, extending in a front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis, and through which air discharged from the motor assembly flows. The air discharged from the motor assembly flows forward through the second channel, passes through the front end of the first rib, and then flows backward through the first channel. The cleaner according to claim 1.

6. The first sound-absorbing member is provided in the first flow path, The cleaner according to claim 1.

7. The first sound-absorbing member has a first flow hole that penetrates the front and rear surfaces of the first sound-absorbing member. The cleaner according to claim 6.

8. The first flow holes are provided at multiple mutually different positions in both the vertical and horizontal directions. The cleaner according to claim 7.

9. The front-to-back dimension of the first sound-absorbing member is greater than the vertical dimension and the left-to-right dimension of the first sound-absorbing member. The cleaner according to claim 6.

10. The main housing has an exhaust port for discharging the air that has flowed through the first flow path, The main housing is further provided with a second sound-absorbing member positioned inside the main housing, facing the exhaust port. The second sound-absorbing member has a second flow hole that penetrates the surface and back surface of the second sound-absorbing member. The size of the first flow hole and the size of the second flow hole are different. The cleaner according to claim 7.

11. The motor assembly is equipped with a first elastic member that contacts the front end and the main housing, respectively. The cleaner according to claim 1.

12. The main housing is positioned in front of the motor assembly and has a partition wall portion in which the suction port is formed. At least a portion of the first elastic member is in contact with the inner surface of the suction port, At least a portion of the first elastic member contacts the rear surface of the partition wall portion. The cleaner according to claim 11.

13. The first elastic member has an annular large-diameter portion that contacts the rear surface of the partition wall portion, and an annular small-diameter portion that protrudes forward from the large-diameter portion and contacts the inner surface of the suction port. The cleaner according to claim 12.

14. The first elastic member comprises a metal mesh portion, a synthetic resin portion to which the metal mesh portion is fixed, and a rubber portion to which the synthetic resin portion is fixed. The cleaner according to claim 11.

15. The system includes a second elastic member positioned behind the first elastic member and in contact with the motor assembly and the main body housing, respectively. The cleaner according to claim 11.

16. The second elastic member is positioned to contact the motor assembly at the position where vibration is minimized when the fan motor rotates. The cleaner according to claim 15.

17. The radially inner end of the second elastic member contacts the motor assembly. The radially outer end of the second elastic member is supported by the main housing. The cleaner according to claim 15.

18. The second elastic member contacts the outer surfaces of four locations in the middle portion of the motor assembly in the front-rear direction. The cleaner according to claim 15.

19. The second elastic member has a body portion supported by the main housing and a support portion having a curved surface that contacts the motor assembly. The cleaner according to claim 15.

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