Suction device and suction system

Abstract

The present invention provides a suction device that can suppress the generation of unpleasant noises and handle vibrations caused by the object being sucked in. [Solution] According to one aspect of the present invention, a suction device is provided comprising a volute case having a suction port, and a fan case having an exhaust port and a blower fan provided inside, wherein the volute case together with the fan case forms a flow path from the suction port to the exhaust port, is connected to the fan case on the upstream side of the flow path, and has an opening on the centrifugal outward side, and the opening is to which a first storage section can be attached for storing objects that have passed through the opening among the objects sucked in from the suction port by the airflow generated in the flow path by the blower fan.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a suction device and a suction system.

Background Art

[0002] In Patent Document 1, an intake port portion along the drive shaft of a fan is formed in a portable fan case, and an outlet port portion along the centrifugal direction of the fan is formed. In a portable power suction device that sucks an object to be sucked from the tip of a suction pipe attached to the intake port portion, a fan protection member that is attached to rotate integrally with the drive shaft and rotates upstream of the intake direction of the fan is provided in the intake port portion. The fan protection member is disclosed as a portable power suction device characterized by having a collision receiving surface perpendicular to the intake direction of the intake port portion.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a suction device, objects such as small stones and dead leaves may also be sucked. When these objects collide with the blower fan inside the suction device, there is a risk of generating unpleasant sounds due to the collision and the impact received by the blower fan being transmitted to the handle and vibrating the handle. In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to provide a suction device or the like that can suppress the generation of unpleasant sounds and vibrations of the handle caused by the sucked objects.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, a suction device is provided comprising a volute case having a suction port, and a fan case having an exhaust port and a blower fan provided inside, wherein the volute case together with the fan case forms a flow path from the suction port to the exhaust port, is connected to the fan case on the upstream side of the flow path, and has an opening on the centrifugal outward side, to which a first storage section can be attached for storing objects that have passed through the opening among the objects sucked in from the suction port by the airflow generated in the flow path by the blower fan.

[0006] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a suction device that can suppress the generation of unpleasant noises and vibrations of the handle caused by the object being sucked in. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is an overall configuration diagram showing the outline of suction system 1. [Figure 2] This is a right side view of suction system 1. [Figure 3] This is a left side view of suction system 1. [Figure 4] This is a front view of the suction system 1. [Figure 5] This is a rear view of the suction system 1. [Figure 6] This is a plan view of suction system 1. [Figure 7] This is a bottom view of the suction system 1. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view showing a disassembled portion of the suction system 1. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view along the cutting line A1-A1 in Figure 4. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view along the cutting line A2-A2 in Figure 2. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view along the cutting line A3-A3 in Figure 5. [Figure 12] This figure shows another example of a volute case. [Figure 13] This figure shows another example of a suction device. [Figure 14] This is a cross-sectional view of the suction device 2b. [Figure 15] This figure shows another example of a suction unit. [Figure 16] This is a diagram showing another example of a storage unit. [Figure 17] This figure shows another example of how to install the first storage unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The various features shown in the embodiments below can be combined with each other.

[0009] Figure 1 is an overall configuration diagram showing the outline of the suction system 1. The suction system 1 is a device that removes dust, dirt, debris, fallen leaves, pebbles, and other objects that have fallen on the floor, etc., by sucking in air along with the air. The suction system 1 comprises a suction unit 10, a suction device 2, and a storage unit 60. The suction device 2 is a device that generates an airflow for sucking in air and objects. The suction device 2 has an airflow path R20 formed inside. The suction unit 10 is attached to the suction device 2 and forms a flow path R10 that connects to the flow path R20.

[0010] The storage unit 60 is configured to store objects sucked in by the suction device 2. The storage unit 60 comprises a first storage unit 61 and a second storage unit 62, both of which are attached to the suction device 2. The first storage unit 61 stores objects on the upstream side of the flow path R20, and the second storage unit 62 stores objects on the downstream side of the flow path R20. The suction device 2 will be described in order to explain the mounting positions of the first storage unit 61 and the second storage unit 62.

[0011] The suction device 2 includes a volute case 20, a connecting portion 30, and a fan case 40. The volute case 20 forms a flow path R21 which is a part of the flow path R20. The connecting portion 30 forms a flow path R22 which is a part of the flow path R20. The fan case 40 forms a flow path R23 which is a part of the flow path R20. By connecting the connecting portion 30 to the volute case 20 and the fan case 40, the flow paths R21, R22, and R23 are connected to form the flow path R20.

[0012] The volute case 20 has a suction port 22, an opening 23, and a connection port 25. The suction port 22 is the upstream end of the flow path R21, and the connection port 25 is the downstream end of the flow path R21. That is, the flow path R21 is the flow path from the suction port 22 to the connection port 25. An opening 23 is provided in the middle of the flow path R21. A first storage portion 61 is attached to the opening 23. Objects sucked from the suction port 22 and flowing out from the opening 23 are stored in the first storage portion 61.

[0013] The fan case 40 includes a connection port 46 and an exhaust port 43. The connection port 46 is the upstream end of the flow path R23, and the exhaust port 43 is the downstream end of the flow path R23. That is, the flow path R23 is the flow path from the connection port 46 to the exhaust port 43. The connection port 25 of the volute case 20 and the connection port 46 of the fan case 40 are connected by the flow path R22 formed by the connecting portion 30. A second storage portion 62 is attached to the exhaust port 43 which is the most downstream of the flow path R20. Objects sucked from the suction port 22 and not stored in the first storage portion 61 are stored in the second storage portion 62.

[0014] Next, the details of each component will be described with reference to the appearance of the suction system 1. FIG. 2 is a right side view of the suction system 1. FIG. 3 is a left side view of the suction system 1. FIG. 4 is a front view of the suction system 1. FIG. 5 is a rear view of the suction system 1. FIG. 6 is a plan view of the suction system 1. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the suction system 1. In these figures, the front-back direction, up-down direction, and left-right direction in the installed state where the suction system 1 is placed on the ground are indicated by arrows. Note that the right side view is a view from the right side when the suction system 1 is viewed from the front (from the front), and the left side view is a view from the left side when the suction system 1 is viewed from the front. On the other hand, the left-right direction of the suction system 1 is shown such that the direction coming to the right side as viewed from the operator using the suction system 1 is the right direction, and the direction coming to the left side is the left direction.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a part of the suction system 1 disassembled. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line A1-A1 in FIG. 4. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line A2-A2 in FIG. 2. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line A3-A3 in FIG. 5.

[0016] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 etc., the suction part 10 includes a pipe part 11, a suction port 12, and a mounting part 13. The pipe part 11 is composed of a cylindrical member and has the suction port 12 and the mounting part 13 at both ends respectively. The mounting part 13 is attached to the suction port 22 of the suction device 2. Thereby, the suction force generated in the suction device 2 is transmitted to the suction port 12 through the suction part 10, and air etc. is sucked from the suction port 12. The suction part 10 may or may not have flexibility.

[0017] The volute case 20 is a case configured to guide air in a volute shape. The volute case 20 includes a housing 21, a suction port 22, an opening 23, a mounting part 24, and a connection port 25. As shown in FIG. 9, the housing 21 has an inner wall surface 211 and forms a flow path R21 surrounded by the inner wall surface 211. The flow path R21 is in a form where a straight cylindrical flow path R211 starting from the suction port 22 and a volute-shaped (spiraled) flow path R212 leading to the connection port 25 are connected.

[0018] To explain the position along the flow path R212, the position along the flow path R212 is represented by the angles shown in Figure 9, in the above-described installation state (with the suction system 1 placed on the ground and the suction port 12 positioned at the front in a side view). Specifically, the vertical upward position of the imaginary line L1 drawn perpendicularly to the ground through the center P1 of the rotation axis of the centrifugal fan 44 (blower fan) provided in the fan case 40 (described later) is called the 0-degree position, and the vertical downward position is called the 180-degree position. Other positions are represented by angles ranging from 0 to 360 degrees, which increase as the rotation direction D1 of the centrifugal fan 44 approaches. Note that the center P1 of the rotation axis of the centrifugal fan 44 is also the center P1 of the rotation axis of the volute case 20.

[0019] Here, the boundary B21 between flow paths R211 and R212 is located between 300 and 360 degrees (0 degrees). Beyond boundary B21, flow path R21 (i.e., flow path R212) follows an arc, and air flows in the direction of rotation D1. Beyond the direction of rotation D1, an opening 23 is provided at a position between 180 and 285 degrees (more specifically, between 225 and 285 degrees) outside the centrifugal direction D2 of flow path R212.

[0020] The object sucked in from the housing 21 is subjected to centrifugal force as it moves through the flow path R212, and is pressed against the outer portion of the inner wall surface 211 in the centrifugal direction D2, moving in the rotational direction D1, and then moves out of the flow path R212 through the opening 23 and is stored in the first storage unit 61. The first storage unit 61 is attached to the opening 23 by the mounting part 24. The first storage unit 61 is a container shaped like a cylinder that becomes narrower towards the end and has a bottom surface.

[0021] The first storage section 61 should have sufficient rigidity to prevent deformation due to the weight of the object being stored or the negative pressure on the R212 passage side, while also being as lightweight as possible. When the pipe section 11, i.e., the front side of the suction system 1, is used to suck up an object from the ground, the position of the opening 23 approaches a vertically downward position, and with the added effect of gravity on the object, it becomes easier for the object to be stored in the first storage section 61 through the opening 23.

[0022] As shown in Figures 4 and 10, the volute case 20 and the fan case 40 are connected by a connecting member 31 of the connecting section 30. In addition, a flow path R22 is formed between the connecting port 25 of the volute case 20 and the connecting port 46 of the fan case 40 by the connecting section 30.

[0023] Here, as shown in Figure 9, the length of the inner wall surface 211 in the centrifugal direction D2 decreases as it moves in the rotational direction D1, and is shortest around the position inside the boundary B21 beyond the opening 23. As a result, some of the air flowing through the flow path R212 flows into the first storage section 61, while the rest is pushed out by the inner wall surface 211 and flows out into the fan case 40 through the connecting port 25 of the volute case 20, via the connecting port 30 and the connecting port 46. At the same time, light objects that were not stored in the first storage section 61 flow out into the fan case 40 along with the air.

[0024] As shown in Figure 10, the air and other fluids flowing out from the connecting port 25 move in the direction D3 from the connecting port 25 towards the connecting port 46, and flow into the interior of the fan case 40 through the flow path R22. As shown in Figures 9 and 10, a mesh section 32 is provided in the flow path R22. The mesh section 32 is sized and shaped to cover the entire flow path R22, preventing objects larger than the mesh (such as twigs and pebbles) from flowing into the interior of the fan case 40.

[0025] As shown in Figure 8, the fan case 40 comprises a housing 41, a cover 42, an exhaust port 43, a centrifugal fan 44, and a motor 45. The centrifugal fan 44 and motor 45 are housed in an internal space formed by placing the cover 42 over the housing 41. The motor 45 rotates the centrifugal fan 44 in the rotation direction D5 shown in Figure 11. A flow path R23 is formed around the centrifugal fan 44. Air flowing in from the connecting port 46 is moved in the centrifugal direction D4 by the rotating centrifugal fan 44, and then moves through the flow path R23 in the rotation direction D5.

[0026] An exhaust port 43 is provided at the end of the rotational direction D5 of the flow path R23, and air moving through the flow path R23 flows out from the exhaust port 43. Small, lightweight objects contained in the air flowing through the flow path R20, such as dust and dirt, that are not stored in the first storage section 61 and pass through the mesh section 32 pass through the exhaust port 43 and are stored in the second storage section 62. The second storage section 62 is a filter made of nonwoven fabric or a dust bag.

[0027] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the suction device 2 includes a drive operation unit 50. The drive operation unit 50 is configured to receive operations for driving the suction device 2. The drive operation unit 50 includes a battery 51, a lever 52, and a handle 53. The battery 51 supplies power to the motor 45. The lever 52 receives operations for switching the power supply to the motor 45 on and off, and for adjusting the rotation speed of the motor 45. The handle 53 is the part that the operator grips when lifting the suction system 1.

[0028] As described above, the suction device 2 comprises a volute case 20 equipped with a suction port 22, and a fan case 40 equipped with an exhaust port 43 and containing a centrifugal fan 44 (an example of a blower fan). The volute case 20, together with the fan case 40, forms a flow path R20 from the suction port 22 to the exhaust port 43. The volute case 20 is connected to the fan case 40 upstream of the flow path R20, and an opening 23 is provided on the outside in the centrifugal direction D2. A first storage section 61 can be attached to the opening 23 to store objects that have passed through the opening 23 among the objects sucked in from the suction port 22 by the airflow generated in the flow path R20 by the centrifugal fan 44.

[0029] When a sucked-in object collides with the blower fan, depending on the size, weight, or hardness of the object, it may generate an unpleasant noise, or the impact of the blower fan may be transmitted to the handle 53, causing vibration to be felt in the hands of the worker gripping the handle 53. In addition, objects larger than the spacing between the blower fan blades may get stuck before reaching the blower fan or repeatedly come into contact with the blower fan blades. In the suction system 1, an opening 23 is provided in the volute case 20 so that such objects can flow out through the opening 23 before reaching the blower fan. As a result, compared to a system without an opening 23, the generation of unpleasant noises and vibrations in the handle 53 caused by objects such as pebbles or twigs sucked in from the suction port 22 are suppressed, and consequently, vibrations are prevented from being felt in the hands of the worker or objects larger than the spacing between the blower fan blades reaching the blower fan.

[0030] Furthermore, by providing the opening 23 on the outside of the volute case 20 in the centrifugal direction D2, the centrifugal force generated on objects reaching the opening 23 is greater compared to when the opening 23 is provided in another location. Also, because the opening 23 is located in the direction in which the centrifugal force acts, heavier objects that are more likely to impact the blower fan are more susceptible to the effects of centrifugal force due to their weight and are more likely to exit through the opening 23.

[0031] Furthermore, if a blower fan were installed in the volute case 20, and the spacing between the fan blades was narrow, objects could get stuck between the fan blades or between the blades and the housing, preventing them from ever reaching the first storage section 61. In contrast to this case, the suction device 2 shown in Figure 2, etc., has a blower fan installed downstream of the first storage section 61, which prevents objects larger than the spacing between the blades from reaching the blower fan.

[0032] The exhaust port 43 of the fan case 40 is configured to accommodate a second storage section 62 for storing objects that were not stored in the first storage section 61 among the objects that were sucked in. Since the centrifugal force generated in a sucked-in object is proportional to the mass of that object, lightweight objects such as dust and dirt have a small centrifugal force and may not exit through the opening 23 but may flow into the fan case 40 while being carried by the airflow. By providing the second storage section 62, such lightweight objects can also be stored.

[0033] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the exhaust port 43 of the fan case 40 is configured to face backward when the suction port 22 is facing forward of the suction device 2. If the second storage unit 62 is mounted in front of the suction device 2, it may obstruct the view of the area to be dusted during dust collection work. In contrast to that case, by configuring the exhaust port 43 to face backward, the second storage unit 62 is also mounted at the rear and does not obstruct the view during work, thus making the second storage unit 62 less likely to get in the way.

[0034] Furthermore, the suction device 2 is provided with a mesh section 32, as shown in Figure 9, between the opening 23 of the flow path R20 and the centrifugal fan 44 (an example of a blower fan). The mesh section 32 is an example of a prevention section that prevents the suctioned object from moving. More specifically, the mesh section 32 is provided at the connecting section 30, which is the point where the volute case 20 and the fan case 40 are connected. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent large objects from hitting the blower fan (centrifugal fan 44). In the example shown in Figure 9, objects larger than the mesh size of the mesh section 32 are prevented from hitting the blower fan.

[0035] Furthermore, the volute case 20 is connected to the fan case 40 at its central portion. Specifically, as shown in Figure 9, a connecting port 25 located in the central portion of the volute case 20 is connected to the fan case 40. In the volute case 20, the flow velocity increases closer to the outer edge, and the higher the flow velocity, the greater the energy loss when turbulence occurs. In other words, the flow velocity decreases closer to the center, and the energy loss when turbulence occurs decreases, thus reducing energy loss due to air movement between the cases compared to the case where the fan case 40 is connected on the outer edge.

[0036] On the other hand, the fan case 40 has a volute shape, and the central part of this volute-shaped fan case 40 is connected to the volute case 20. Specifically, as shown in Figure 11, etc., a connecting port 46 provided in the central part of the volute-shaped fan case 40 is connected to the volute case 20.

[0037] When the outer periphery of the volute-shaped fan case 40 is connected to the volute case 20, the velocity of the incoming air increases rapidly, making it easy for energy loss to increase when turbulence occurs. In contrast, if the volute-shaped fan case 40 is also connected at its central portion, the initial velocity of the incoming air is slow, so energy loss due to air movement between the cases can be further reduced compared to when the outer periphery of the fan case 40 is connected.

[0038] Furthermore, by making the fan case 40 volute-shaped, and aligning the direction in which air flows around the rotation axis of the centrifugal fan 44 (blower fan) inside the fan case 40 (rotation direction D5 shown in Figure 11) with the direction in which air flows around the rotation axis of the centrifugal fan 44 (blower fan) inside the volute case 20 (rotation direction D1 shown in Figure 9), the driving energy of the blower fan can be reduced compared to when these directions are opposite, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0039] Furthermore, the suction system 1 includes a suction device 2, a first storage unit 61 that can be attached to the opening 23, and a second storage unit 62 that can be attached to the exhaust port 43. By providing storage units on both the upstream and downstream sides in this way, heavy objects can be collected on the upstream side to suppress damage to the blower fan, while lighter objects can also be collected.

[0040] <Variation: Opening> The position and size of the opening in the volute case are not limited to those shown in Figure 9, etc. For example, the opening may be larger or smaller than the opening 23 shown in Figure 9, etc. The larger the opening, the easier it is for the sucked-in object to be stored in the first storage section 61, but the airflow also flows into the first storage section 61, creating turbulence and increasing energy loss. Therefore, it is desirable to have a size that is well balanced with airflow efficiency.

[0041] Furthermore, the opening may be located upstream or downstream of the flow path R20 from the opening 23 shown in Figure 9, etc. Regardless of the position of the rotation direction D1, if the opening is located outside the centrifugal direction D2 of the volute case 20, it will be easier for objects to exit the opening due to centrifugal force compared to when it is located elsewhere. Also, if the opening is located in a position that faces vertically downward during dust collection, gravity will act in addition to centrifugal force to make it easier for objects to exit the opening.

[0042] Specifically, for example, using the angles from 0 to 360 degrees shown in Figure 9, it is desirable to have the opening at a position between 90 and 270 degrees, which is below the center P1 of the rotation axis of the volute case 20 in the direction of gravity during operation, and it is even more desirable to have it closer to 180 degrees, which is directly below in the direction of gravity during operation. For example, if the suction system 1 is used with the pipe section 11 tilted forward by about 45 degrees compared to the installation position (placed on the ground) during operation, it is desirable that the position of the opening at the time of installation be between 135 and 315 degrees, and it is even more desirable to have it closer to 225 degrees.

[0043] However, the positions indicated by these angles are just examples, and the desirable position of the opening during installation will change depending on the expected inclination during the work. Specifically, during work or installation, it is desirable that at least a portion of the opening be positioned below the imaginary line (the imaginary line L2 shown in Figure 9 in the installed state) that passes through the center P1 of the rotation axis of the centrifugal fan 44 (blower fan) installed in the fan case 40 and is parallel to the ground, in the direction of gravity.

[0044] Furthermore, in the installed state of the suction system 1, the first storage section 61 is located on the opposite side of the battery 51, that is, in front of the imaginary line L1 shown in Figure 9, which is drawn perpendicularly to the ground through the center P1 of the rotation axis of the centrifugal fan 44 (blower fan) provided in the fan case 40. As a result, as heavy objects such as pebbles are stored in the first storage section 61, the center of gravity shifts from rear to front, making it easier to tilt the suction section 10 forward during operation compared to when the first storage section 61 is located behind the imaginary line L1.

[0045] Furthermore, the first storage section 61 is designed so that it does not come into contact with the ground when the suction system 1 is placed on a level surface. This protects the first storage section 61 from wear caused by contact with the ground.

[0046] Furthermore, although the number of openings provided in the volute case was one in the example shown in Figure 2, etc., it is not limited to this, and two or more openings may be provided in the volute case. In that case, for example, by shifting the positions of the two or more openings in the rotational direction D1, even if the inclination of the suction system 1 changes during operation, the position of one of the openings will be closer to the vertically downward, making it possible to make it easier for the object to flow out of the openings compared to when there is only one opening.

[0047] <Modification: Position adjustment> The position of the opening in the volute case may be variable. Figure 12 shows another example of a volute case. The suction system 1a shown in Figure 12 includes a suction device 2a, which includes a volute case 20a. The opening 23a of the volute case 20a is configured to be adjustable in the circumferential direction D6 of the volute case 20a. The circumferential direction D6 is the direction along the arc drawn by the outer circumference of the flow path formed by the volute case 20a (a flow path similar to the flow path R21 shown in Figure 9), and is also the direction along the rotational direction D1 shown in Figure 9.

[0048] The volute case 20a specifically comprises a housing 21a including, for example, a movable part 26a with an opening 23a and a main body part 27a. The main body part 27a is provided with a slide guide, and the movable part 26a has an engaging portion that engages with the slide guide and is slidable in the circumferential direction D6. The movable part 26a is formed with a sufficiently large size in the circumferential direction D6 so that the airtightness of the flow path R20 is maintained even when it is slid.

[0049] By making the position of the opening 23a in the circumferential direction D6 adjustable in this way, the position of the opening 23a can be brought closer to a vertically downward position in accordance with the tilt of the suction system 1 during operation. As a result, compared to the case where the position of the opening 23a in the circumferential direction D6 is fixed, it becomes possible to make it easier for objects to exit the opening 23a due to gravity in addition to centrifugal force, regardless of the tilt of the suction device 2.

[0050] <Variation: Adjusting the position of the case> The configuration of the volute case and fan case is not limited to the examples above. Figure 13 shows another example of a suction device. The suction system 1b shown in Figure 13 includes a suction device 2b, which comprises a volute case 20b, a connecting part 30b, and a fan case 40b. The volute case 20b and the fan case 40b are configured to be adjustable in their relative positions in the circumferential direction.

[0051] The circumferential direction D6 of the volute case 20b is the same as in the example in Figure 12. The circumferential direction D7 of the fan case 40b is along the arc drawn by the outer circumference of the flow path formed by the volute case 20b (a flow path similar to the flow path R23 shown in Figure 11), and is also along the rotational direction D5 shown in Figure 11.

[0052] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the suction device 2b. As shown in Figure 14, the connecting portion 30b comprises a first part 33b that connects to the volute case 20b and a second part 34b that connects to the fan case 40b. The first part 33b and the second part 34b are connected to each other so as to be rotatable in the circumferential direction. By rotating these first part 33b and second part 34b, the circumferential positions of the volute case 20b and the fan case 40b are adjusted.

[0053] For example, in the case of the suction system 1 shown in Figure 2, if the front is tilted downwards during operation, the exhaust port 43 on the opposite side will face vertically upwards, making it easier for objects stored in the second storage unit 62 to return to the flow path R20. In contrast to that case, with the above configuration, by rotating the fan case 40b so that the exhaust port 43b faces horizontally or vertically downwards, it is possible to make it more difficult for objects stored in the second storage unit 62 to return to the flow path R20.

[0054] <Variation example: Suction hose> The shape of the suction section is not limited to those shown in Figure 2, etc. Figure 15 shows another example of the suction unit. The suction system 1c shown in Figure 15 further comprises a suction hose 11c and a rod-shaped member 13c, in addition to the suction device 2 and storage unit 60 shown in Figure 2, etc. The suction hose 11c is attachable to the suction port 22 of the volute case 20 and is configured to be retractable. The suction hose 11c is formed in a bellows shape using, for example, a flexible material, and its tip can be moved freely.

[0055] The rod-shaped member 13c is configured such that one end is attached to the tip of the suction hose 11c by a fixing member 15c, and the other end can be gripped by the operator. A grip 14c is attached to the other end of the rod-shaped member 13c to make it easier for the operator to manipulate the rod-shaped member 13c.

[0056] When the suction unit 10 shown in Figure 2 is attached to the suction device 2, for example, when collecting dust from a high place such as a ceiling, the opening 23 of the volute case 20 faces vertically upward, making it difficult for objects to be stored in the first storage unit 61. In contrast to that case, when the suction unit 10c is attached to the suction device 2, the rod-shaped member 13c can be operated to bring the suction port 12c to a high place while keeping the opening 23 facing vertically downward. Thus, according to the example in Figure 15, compared to the case without the suction unit 10c, it is possible to make it easier to perform suction work while maintaining the orientation of the opening 23, and as a result, it is possible to suppress the difficulty in storing the sucked-up objects in the first storage unit 61.

[0057] Furthermore, even objects located in recessed areas, such as gaps between equipment and walls, can be sucked up by extending the suction hose 11c and inserting its tip into the gap. Additionally, the suction resistance can be reduced by shortening the suction hose 11c. Thus, the suction system 1c makes it easier to suck up objects in various locations compared to a system with a non-extendable suction hose, while suppressing a decrease in suction airflow.

[0058] Furthermore, one end of the rod-shaped member 13c is attached to the tip of the bellows-shaped suction hose 11c by the fixing member 15c, and the other end is attached to the grip 14c. Therefore, compared to a typical suction device in which a rod-shaped member and a suction port are provided at the tip of the suction hose, the overall length from the suction port 12c to the suction port 22 can be shortened while utilizing the maneuverability of the bellows-shaped suction hose 11c, thereby reducing suction resistance.

[0059] <Variation: Storage section> The shape of the storage compartment is not limited to the examples shown above. Figure 16 shows another example of a storage unit. The suction system 1d shown in Figure 16 includes a suction device 2d and a first storage unit 61d, in addition to the suction unit 10c shown in Figure 15. The volute case 20d of the suction device 2d has an opening 23d located on the lower side in the direction of gravity. The first storage unit 61d is attached to the opening 23d. This makes it easier for the suctioned object to fall into the first storage unit 61d on the lower side in the direction of gravity, compared to when the opening is in a different position.

[0060] The first storage compartment 61d is shaped like a rectangular box. The first storage compartment 61d comprises a top lid 611d, a container section 612d, a fixing section 613d, and a caster section 614d. The top lid 611d is fixed to the opening 23d. The container section 612d is fixed to the top lid 611d by the fixing section 613d, and can be removed from the top lid 611d without the need for tools by operating the fixing section 613d. This makes it easier to dispose of objects stored in the first storage compartment 61d compared to, for example, a case where the top lid 611d and the container section 612d are formed as a single unit.

[0061] The caster section 614d is a wheel that can be attached to and removed from the container section 612d, and three or more (preferably four) are attached to it to ensure stability when the suction system 1d is placed on the ground. By placing the caster section 614d on the ground and rolling the suction system 1d, the worker does not need to support the entire suction system 1d with their hands. Compared to a system without casters, the worker can move the suction system 1d simply by placing their hand on the handle 53, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0062] <Example: Offset of the first storage unit> The mounting method for the first storage unit is not limited to the configuration described above. Figure 17 shows another example of how the first storage unit is mounted. The suction device 2e of the suction system 1e shown in Figure 17 comprises a volute case 20e and a first storage unit 61e. The volute case 20e comprises a housing 21e, an opening 23e, and a mounting portion 24e.

[0063] The housing 21e has a flow path R212e formed inside. The opening 23e is located outside the flow path R212e in the centrifugal direction D2. The first storage unit 61e is attached to the opening 23e by a mounting part 24e, but unlike the example in Figure 5, etc., in a rear view, the imaginary line L3 passing through the left-right center of the flow path R212e and the imaginary line L4 passing through the left-right center of the first storage unit 61e are offset in the left-right direction, that is, they are attached with a left-right offset.

[0064] Because the first storage section 61e is mounted with this offset, the air that flows from the flow path R212e through the opening 23e into the first storage section 61e within the volute case 20e flows along the inner side of the first storage section 61e, generating a swirling flow. As a result, compared to the case where the first storage section is not offset, it is possible to suppress the backflow of objects from the first storage section 61e into the flow path R212e.

[0065] <Variations: Other configurations> The suction system 1 is not limited to the configuration described above. For example, the suction system 1 does not need to have a second storage section 62. Even in that case, some of the sucked-in objects (especially heavy or large objects) are stored in the first storage section 61, and objects that are not stored in the first storage section 61 (small and light objects) are discharged from the exhaust port 43.

[0066] Furthermore, the blower fan is not limited to a centrifugal fan; it may also be an axial fan. In that case, the fan case may be volute-shaped, but it may also be cylindrical or other shapes. Even with an axial fan, by creating an airflow in the direction of outflow from the connecting port 25 of the volute case 20, an airflow along the flow path R21 is created inside the volute case 20, and the sucked-in object is stored in the first storage section 61 through the opening 23. In addition, by attaching a second storage section 62 to the exhaust port of the fan case, objects that were not stored in the first storage section 61 can be stored.

[0067] Furthermore, in the suction system 1, the volute case 20 and the fan case 40 were connected by a connecting part 30, but the volute case 20 and the fan case 40 may be directly connected without the connecting part 30. Also, the storage section (first storage section and second storage section) was a container with a shape that does not deform in the above examples, but it may be a container that deforms, such as a plastic bag or a mesh. The storage section may have any shape as long as it can maintain a state in which it stores the incoming object.

[0068] Furthermore, the suction section is not limited to those described above (suction section 10 and suction section 10a). It may be longer or shorter than suction section 10. Also, suction section 10 may be detachable from the suction device 2, or it may be integrated with the suction device 2. In addition, although the suction system 1 was a portable type that the operator carried and used during work, it may also be a stationary type that is installed in a fixed location. In either case, by having an opening in the volute case connected to the fan case upstream of the blower fan, objects subjected to centrifugal force will exit the flow path through the opening, thus suppressing the generation of unpleasant noises and vibrations of the handle 53 caused by the sucked-in objects compared to cases without this configuration.

[0069] Furthermore, although it has been stated that the centrifugal fan 44 and motor 45 are housed in the space of the vibe formed by covering the housing 41 with a cover, they may also be incorporated inside the housing 41. Also, although it has been stated that the second storage section 62 is a filter such as nonwoven fabric or a dust bag, it may be a container with a cylindrical shape and a bottom, or a container with a square, triangular, or elliptical bottom as long as it can accommodate an object. In this case, the second storage section 62 should, like the first storage section 61, have sufficient rigidity to prevent deformation due to the weight of the object stored inside, while being as lightweight as possible. However, the second storage section 62 must be provided with an air hole to discharge the incoming air. It is desirable that this air hole be provided, for example, vertically upward so that the stored dust and dirt do not easily escape to the outside.

[0070] Furthermore, they may be provided in the following embodiments.

[0071] (1) A suction device comprising a volute case having a suction port and a fan case having an exhaust port and a blower fan provided inside, wherein the volute case together with the fan case forms a flow path from the suction port to the exhaust port, is connected to the fan case on the upstream side of the flow path and has an opening on the centrifugal outward side, and the opening can be fitted with a first storage section for storing objects that have passed through the opening among the objects sucked in from the suction port by the airflow generated in the flow path by the blower fan.

[0072] This configuration makes it possible to suppress the generation of unpleasant noises and vibrations in the handle caused by the object being sucked in.

[0073] (2) A suction device as described in (1) above, wherein the exhaust port is configured to be capable of attaching a second storage unit for storing objects that were not stored in the first storage unit among the objects that were sucked in.

[0074] According to this configuration, even lightweight objects can be stored.

[0075] (3) A suction device as described in (2) above, wherein the exhaust port is configured to face backward when the suction port is facing forward of the suction device.

[0076] In this configuration, the second storage unit can be made less likely to get in the way.

[0077] (4) A suction device according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein a prevention part is provided between the opening of the flow path and the blower fan to prevent the object being sucked in from moving.

[0078] This configuration makes it possible to prevent large objects from hitting the blower fan.

[0079] (5) A suction device according to any one of (1) to (4) above, wherein the volute case is connected in its central portion to the fan case.

[0080] This configuration makes it possible to reduce energy loss due to air movement between cases.

[0081] (6) A suction device as described in (5) above, wherein the fan case has a volute shape, and the central part of the fan case is connected to the volute case.

[0082] This embodiment further reduces energy loss due to air movement between cases.

[0083] (7) A suction device as described in (6) above, wherein the volute case and the fan case are configured to be able to adjust their relative positions in the circumferential direction to each other.

[0084] According to this configuration, regardless of the tilt of the suction device, it is possible to prevent objects from accumulating in the fan case.

[0085] (8) A suction device according to any one of (1) to (7) above, wherein the opening is configured to be adjustable in the circumferential position of the volute case.

[0086] In this configuration, the object can be easily discharged from the opening regardless of the tilt of the suction device.

[0087] (9) A suction system comprising a suction device described in any one of (1) to (8) above, a first storage unit that can be attached to the opening, and a second storage unit that can be attached to the exhaust port.

[0088] (10) The suction system described in (9) above, further comprising a suction hose and a rod-shaped member, wherein the suction hose is attachable to the suction port and is configured to be retractable, and the rod-shaped member is configured such that one end is attached to the tip of the suction hose and the other end can be grasped by an operator.

[0089] This configuration makes it easier to perform suction work while keeping the opening oriented vertically downward. Of course, this is not limited to this. Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above may be combined in any way.

[0090] As previously described, various embodiments of the present invention have been explained, but these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the invention in any way. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0091] 1: Suction system 1a: Suction system 1b: Suction system 1c: Suction system 1d: Suction system 1e: Suction system 2:Suction device 2a: Suction device 2b:Suction device 2d: Suction device 2e: Suction device 10: Suction part 10a: Suction part 10c: Suction part 11: Pipe section 11c: Suction hose 12: Inlet 12c: Inlet 13: Mounting part 13c: Rod-shaped member 14c: Grip 15c: Fixing member 20: Volute Case 20a: Volute case 20b: Volute Case 20d: Volute Case 20e: Volute Case 21: Cabinet 21a: Enclosure 21e: Enclosure 22: Suction port 23: Opening 23a: Opening 23d: opening 23e: Opening 24: Mounting part 24e: Mounting part 25: Connection port 26a: Movable parts 27a: Main body parts 30:Connection part 30b:Connection part 31: Connecting member 32: Amibe 33b: Part 1 34b: Part 2 40: Fan Case 40b: Fan case 41: Cabinet 42: Cover 43: Exhaust vent 43b: Exhaust port 44: Centrifugal fan 45: Motor 46: Connection port 50: Drive operation unit 51: Battery 52: Lever 53: Handle 60: Storage Unit 61: First storage unit 61d: First storage unit 611d: Upper lid 612d: Container part 613d:Fixed part 614d: Caster section 61e: First storage unit 62: Second storage unit 211: Interior wall surface B21 :Boundary R10: Flow path R20: Flow path R21: Flow path R211: Flow path R212: Flow path R212e: Flow path R22: Flow path R23: Flow path

Claims

1. A volute case equipped with a suction port, A fan case with an internal cooling fan and an exhaust vent, A suction device equipped with, The volute case, together with the fan case, forms a flow path from the intake port to the exhaust port, is connected to the fan case on the upstream side of the flow path, and has an opening on the centrifugal outward side. The opening can be fitted with a first storage unit for storing objects that have passed through the opening among the objects sucked in from the suction port by the airflow generated in the flow path by the blower fan. Suction device.

2. In the suction device according to claim 1, The exhaust port is configured to allow the attachment of a second storage unit for storing objects that were not stored in the first storage unit among the objects that were sucked in. Suction device.

3. In the suction device according to claim 2, The exhaust port is configured to face backward when the suction port is facing forward of the suction device. Suction device.

4. In the suction device according to claim 1, Between the opening of the flow path and the blower fan, there is a prevention part to prevent the sucked-in object from moving. Suction device.

5. In the suction device according to claim 1, The volute case is connected to the fan case in its central portion. Suction device.

6. In the suction device according to claim 5, The aforementioned fan case has a volute shape, The aforementioned fan case is connected to the aforementioned volute case in its central portion. Suction device.

7. In the suction device according to claim 6, The volute case and the fan case are configured to allow adjustment of their relative positions in the circumferential direction. Suction device.

8. In the suction device according to claim 1, The opening is configured to allow adjustment of the circumferential position of the volute case. Suction device.

9. It is a suction system, A suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, A first storage unit that can be attached to the aforementioned opening, A second storage unit that can be attached to the exhaust port and A suction system equipped with the following features.

10. In the suction system according to claim 9, It further comprises a suction hose and a rod-shaped member, The suction hose is attachable to the suction port and is configured to be retractable. The rod-shaped member is configured such that one end is attached to the tip of the suction hose and the other end can be gripped by the worker. Suction system.

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