Cleaning tool set

Abstract

The objective is to provide a technology that reduces resistance to the airflow used for collecting dust from a vacuum cleaner to a collection device. [Solution] The cleaning tool set of this disclosure comprises a vacuum cleaner having a first dust storage section for storing dust, and a collection device for collecting dust from the first dust storage section. The first dust storage section has a dust discharge port that allows dust to be discharged from the first dust storage section. The collection device comprises a second dust storage section for storing dust that has flowed out from the first dust storage section, an upstream duct connected to the dust discharge port of the first dust storage section and forming a flow path for air and dust flowing from the dust discharge port to the second dust storage section, and a downstream duct extending from the second dust storage section to form a flow path for air that has flowed out from the second dust storage section. The upstream and downstream ducts are extended so that the air sucked out from the dust discharge port of the first dust storage section by the suction force of the suction source flows into the inflow space without flowing downward.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cleaner set comprising: a cleaner having a suction source that generates a suction force for sucking dust; and a collection device that collects dust from the cleaner.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a cleaner set 300 shown in Fig. 28. The cleaner set 300 includes a stick-type cleaner 310 configured to suck dust on a floor surface, and a collection device 320 that collects dust from the cleaner 310.

[0003] As shown in Fig. 29, the cleaner 310 has a cleaner body 312 incorporating a suction source 311 that generates an upward suction force for sucking dust, and a switching container 313 and a dust storage container 314 are arranged on the lower side of the cleaner body 312. As shown in Fig. 30, the switching container 313 is formed with not only a first inflow port 315 opening downward, but also a second inflow port 316 opening rearward.

[0004] As shown in Fig. 29 and Fig. 30, a switching valve 317 is attached to the switching container 313, and the switching valve 317 opens one of the first inflow port 315 and the second inflow port 316 while closing the other. Specifically, when the cleaner 310 is not connected to the collection device 320, the switching valve 317 is configured to open the first inflow port 315 and close the second inflow port 316 as shown in Fig. 29. When the cleaner 310 is connected to the collection device 320 as shown in Fig. 30, the switching valve 317 closes the first inflow port 315 and opens the second inflow port 316.

[0005] The dust storage container 314 is fixed to the underside of the switching container 313. The internal space of the dust storage container 314 communicates with the internal space of the switching container 313 when the switching valve 317 is open at the first inlet 315, and the suction force of the suction source 311 can act on the internal space of the dust storage container 314 through the internal space of the switching container 313. Dust sucked in by the suction force of the suction source 311 is stored in the dust storage container 314.

[0006] A filter 335 is placed inside the dust storage container 314 to prevent dust from the dust storage container 314 from flowing into the switching container 313 through the first inlet 315. The filter 335 is configured to allow air to pass through while capturing dust contained in this air. As a result, air from which dust has been removed by the filter 335 can flow into the switching container 313 through the first inlet 315.

[0007] As shown in Figure 29, the dust collection container 314 has a bottom wall portion 318 and a peripheral wall portion 319 that rises from the bottom wall portion 318. The peripheral wall portion 319 has a dust inlet 331 into which dust sucked in by the suction force of the suction source 311 flows. When the vacuum cleaner 310 is connected to the collection device 320, the bottom wall portion 318 opens downward as shown in Figure 30, and the internal space of the dust collection container 314 is opened downward. In this state, the dust inside the dust collection container 314 falls due to gravity.

[0008] As shown in Figure 29, a base pipe section 332 extends vertically from the front of the dust storage container 314. The flow path of the base pipe section 332 communicates with the dust inlet 331 of the dust storage container 314. As shown in Figure 28, an extension pipe section 333 extends downward from the lower end of the base pipe section 332. A suction nozzle 334 is attached to the lower end of the extension pipe section 333. When the suction source 311 is activated with the switching valve 317 open, as shown in Figure 29, the suction force of the suction source 311 acts on the suction nozzle 334 through the internal space of the switching container 313 and the dust storage container 314, as well as through the flow paths of the base pipe section 332 and the extension pipe section 333. When the user moves the suction nozzle 334 on the floor, dust on the floor is sucked up by the suction nozzle 334 and then flows into the dust collection container 314 through the extension pipe section 333 and the base pipe section 332.

[0009] The collection device 320 is used to collect dust from the dust container 314. As shown in Figure 28, the collection device 320 has a front housing portion 321 on which the dust container 314 of the vacuum cleaner 310 is placed, and a rear housing portion 322 which is erected behind the front housing portion 321 and is taller than the front housing portion 321. As shown in Figure 30, the front housing portion 321 forms a first collection passage 323 that extends in the vertical direction. When the bottom wall portion 318 of the dust container 314 rotates downward as shown in Figure 30, the internal space of the dust container 314 is opened downward, and the first collection passage 323 becomes connected to the internal space of the dust container 314. In this state, the dust in the dust container 314 falls into the first collection passage 323. To catch this dust, a collection container 325 is placed at the lower end of the first collection passage 323.

[0010] The lower end of the first recovery path 323 communicates with the lower end of the second recovery path 324 via a filter 326. The filter 326 is configured to allow air to pass through while capturing dust. As a result, dust that falls from the dust collection container 314 is contained within the first recovery path 323.

[0011] The upper end of the second recovery passage 324 communicates with the internal space of the switching container 313 when the switching valve 317 is open at the second inlet 316 as shown in Figure 30. When the suction source 311 is activated in this state, the air from which dust has been removed by the filter 326 can flow into the switching container 313 through the second recovery passage 324. At this time, since the switching valve 317 is closed at the first inlet 315, dust accumulated at the lower end of the first recovery passage 323 does not flow into the switching container 313 through the first recovery passage 323 and the dust storage container 314. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0012] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024-35355 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0013] In the cleaning tool set 300 shown in Figure 30, most of the dust in the dust collection container 314 falls due to gravity, but some dust may remain in the dust collection container 314. To remove the dust remaining in the dust collection container 314, the user can activate the suction source 311. Due to the suction force of the suction source 311, air flows sequentially through the base pipe section 332, the dust collection container 314, the first recovery path 323, the second recovery path 324, and the switching container 313. The dust remaining in the dust collection container 314 can be carried by this airflow to the recovery container 325 in the first recovery path 323.

[0014] The longer the flow path formed by the base pipe section 332, the dust storage container 314, the first recovery path 323, the second recovery path 324, and the switching container 313, the greater the resistance to the airflow, i.e., the pressure loss, when collecting dust from the dust storage container 314 to the recovery container 325. As the pressure loss increases, the suction force acting on the dust storage container 314 decreases, which can increase the time required to remove dust from the dust storage container 314.

[0015] This disclosure aims to provide a technology for reducing resistance to the airflow used to collect dust from a vacuum cleaner to a collection device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0016] The cleaning tool set in this disclosure includes a vacuum cleaner having a housing that houses a suction source that generates an upward suction force for sucking up dust and air, and a first dust storage section that captures and stores dust contained in the air sucked in by the suction force of the suction source and allows the air to flow out upward, and a recovery device for recovering dust from the first dust storage section. The first dust storage section has a dust discharge port that allows dust to be discharged from the first dust storage section. The recovery device includes a second dust storage section configured to store dust that has flowed out of the first dust storage section and to allow air that has flowed out of the first dust storage section to pass through, an upstream duct connected to the dust discharge port of the first dust storage section and forming a flow path for air and dust flowing from the dust discharge port to the second dust storage section, and a downstream duct extending from the second dust storage section to form a flow path for air that has flowed out of the second dust storage section. The vacuum cleaner housing has a connection port where the downstream duct is connected at a lower position than the suction source, and it also forms an inflow space below the suction source into which air that has passed through the downstream duct flows. The upstream and downstream ducts are extended so that the air sucked out from the dust discharge port of the first dust collection section by the suction force of the suction source flows into the inflow space without flowing downwards. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] The aforementioned technology can reduce resistance to the airflow used to collect dust from the vacuum cleaner to the collection device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] Longitudinal cross-sectional view of the cleaning tool set (first embodiment) [Figure 2] Longitudinal cross-section of a cleaning tool set [Figure 3] Perspective view of the first dust collection section of the cleaning tool set. [Figure 4]Longitudinal sectional view of the connecting portion between the cleaner of the cleaning tool set and the downstream duct [Figure 5] Longitudinal sectional view of the connecting portion between the cleaner and the downstream duct [Figure 6] Longitudinal sectional view of the connecting portion between the cleaner and the downstream duct [Figure 7] Longitudinal sectional view of the connecting portion between the cleaner and the downstream duct [Figure 8] Cross-sectional view of the connecting portion between the cleaner and the downstream duct [Figure 9] Cross-sectional view of the connecting portion between the cleaner and the downstream duct [Figure 10] Cross-sectional view of the connecting portion between the cleaner and the downstream duct [Figure 11] Longitudinal sectional view of the connecting portion between the cleaner and the downstream duct [Figure 12] Longitudinal sectional view of the lower part of the cleaner housing (Second Embodiment) [Figure 13] Longitudinal sectional view of the lower part of the cleaner housing [Figure 14] Longitudinal sectional view of the lower part of the cleaner housing [Figure 15] Perspective view of the tip portion of the downstream duct [Figure 16] Longitudinal sectional view of the lower part of the cleaner housing (Third Embodiment) [Figure 17] Longitudinal sectional view of the connecting portion between the cleaner and the downstream duct [Figure 18] Longitudinal sectional view of the lower part of the cleaner housing [Figure 19] Longitudinal sectional view of the lower part of the cleaner housing (Fourth Embodiment) [Figure 20] Cross-sectional view of the lower part of the cleaner housing [Figure 21] Longitudinal sectional view of the connecting portion between the cleaner and the downstream duct [Figure 22] Longitudinal sectional view of the lower part of the cleaner housing (Fifth Embodiment) [Figure 23] Plan view of the fixed disc and the restricting portion of the cleaner [Figure 24] Longitudinal sectional view of the lower part of the cleaner housing [Figure 25] Plan view of the fixed disc and the restricting portion of the cleaner [Figure 26]Longitudinal cross-section of the connection point between the vacuum cleaner and the downstream duct. [Figure 27] Plan view of the regulatory section [Figure 28] Perspective view of a conventional cleaning tool set [Figure 29] Cross-sectional view of a conventional vacuum cleaner [Figure 30] Cross-sectional view of a conventional cleaning tool set [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0019] The first to fifth embodiments of the cleaning tool set will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings, but in order to facilitate understanding for those skilled in the art, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0020] <First Embodiment> Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cleaning tool set 101. The cleaning tool set 101 includes a stick-type vacuum cleaner 100 and a collection device 200 for collecting dust from the vacuum cleaner 100. The collection device 200 is fixed on a base 102 so that it can be positioned at a height that allows it to be connected to the vacuum cleaner 100.

[0021] (Overall structure of a vacuum cleaner) The vacuum cleaner 100 includes a vacuum cleaner body 110 and a substantially cylindrical first dust collection section 140 fixed to the lower side of the vacuum cleaner body 110. The vacuum cleaner body 110 includes a substantially cylindrical housing 119 and a suction source 111 and a storage battery 114 housed within the housing 119. The storage battery 114 stores power for the suction source 111 and is located above the suction source 111. The suction source 111 uses this power to generate an upward suction force to suck up dust from the floor surface, and is configured to suck out air from the first dust collection section 140 during cleaning. The suction source 111 may include, for example, a motor that generates rotational force and a rotating blade configured to generate an upward airflow when rotated by the motor.

[0022] The lower part of the housing 119 forms an inflow space 125 below the suction source 111 and above the first dust storage section 140. During cleaning, the air sucked upward from the first dust storage section 140 by the suction force of the suction source 111 flows into the inflow space 125.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2, a connection port 126 is formed in the lower rear wall of the housing 119, which is used for connecting to the recovery device 200. The connection port 126 is located below the suction source 111 and at a height above the first dust storage section 140, and communicates with the inflow space 125. Therefore, the inflow space 125 can be opened backward through the connection port 126.

[0024] A cover 127 for opening and closing the connection port 126 is positioned within the inlet space 125. Pivot shafts 128, which connect to the inner wall of the housing 119, are provided on the left and right edges of the cover 127. The pivot shafts 128 are located near the lower end of the cover 127. In Figure 2, the cover 127 is in the closed position, closing the connection port 126. When the vacuum cleaner 100 is connected to the retrieval device 200, the cover 127 is pushed forward by the retrieval device 200. As a result, the cover 127 tilts forward around the pivot shafts 128 and is displaced to the open position, which opens the connection port 126. A cover biasing part 129 is attached to the pivot shafts 128 to bias the cover 127 to the closed position, and when the vacuum cleaner 100 is separated from the retrieval device 200, the cover 127 closes the connection port 126. This lid biasing portion 129 may be composed of, for example, a torsion spring.

[0025] As shown in Figure 1, a rod-shaped gripping portion 113 is provided on the front side of the housing 119, which is formed to be gripped by the user. The gripping portion 113 is integrally formed with the housing 119.

[0026] Below the grip portion 113, a suction pipe 120 extends vertically, forming a flow path for dust sucked up from the floor surface by the suction force of the suction source 111. A suction nozzle 130 is attached to the lower end of the suction pipe 120, which is made movable on the floor surface while in contact with it. Inside the suction nozzle 130, a suction space is formed that allows dust from the floor surface to be sucked up by the suction force of the suction source 111 and to flow into the suction pipe 120.

[0027] The suction tube 120 has a base tube portion 121 located in front of the first dust collection section 140, and an extension tube portion 122 extending downward from the base tube portion 121. The extension tube portion 122 is formed to be separable from the base tube portion 121. The base tube portion 121 is integrally formed with the grip portion 113 and forms a flow path that curves toward the first dust collection section 140.

[0028] The first dust storage unit 140 includes a dust storage container 146 that forms a dust storage space 145 for storing dust that has been sucked up from the floor surface by the suction force of the suction source 111 and passed through the suction pipe 120, and a filtration unit 147 housed within the dust storage space 145. The filtration unit 147 is configured to allow air in the dust storage space 145 to flow into the filtration unit 147 when the suction source 111 is operating, while centrifuging the dust contained in this air.

[0029] The dust storage container 146 is configured to connect the dust storage space 145 to the flow path of the base pipe section 121 and to store dust centrifuged by the filtration section 147. Specifically, the dust storage container 146 has a substantially cylindrical peripheral wall section 148 and a bottom wall section 149 that closes the lower end of the peripheral wall section 148.

[0030] As shown in Figure 3, the first dust storage section 140 further includes a top cover 164 that closes the opening at the upper end of the peripheral wall 148, and a filter 112 mounted on the top cover 164. The top cover 164 has a plurality of through holes 165 drilled through it in the vertical direction. Air from which dust has been reduced by centrifugal separation by the filtration section 147 flows upward from the first dust storage section 140 to the inflow space 125 through these through holes 165. The filter 112 is configured to allow the air flowing out from the through holes 165 to pass upward while capturing the dust contained in this air. The dust is retained in the dust storage container 146 by the filter 112 and the filtration section 147.

[0031] As shown in Figure 3, a dust discharge port 167 is formed at the rear of the peripheral wall portion 148 for discharging dust from the dust storage space 145. To open and close the dust discharge port 167, a dust discharge cover 168 is attached to the peripheral wall portion 148, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. The dust discharge cover 168 shown in Figure 1 is in the closed position, closing the dust discharge port 167. The dust discharge cover 168 can be tilted backward on its lower end as an axis. As a result, the dust discharge cover 168 can be rotated to the open position, as shown in Figure 2, to open the dust discharge port 167. In this embodiment, the dust discharge cover 168 is configured so that the user can operate the dust discharge cover 168 by hand to open and close the dust discharge port 167.

[0032] (Overall structure of the recovery device) As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the collection device 200 has a roughly rectangular box-shaped second dust storage section 210 for storing dust discharged from the first dust storage section 140 of the vacuum cleaner 100. To form a flow path for air and dust from the first dust storage section 140 to the second dust storage section 210, an upstream duct 220 extends forward from the front wall of the second dust storage section 210 in a roughly horizontal position.

[0033] The rear end of the upstream duct 220 is fixed to the second dust storage section 210, and the front end of the upstream duct 220 is in contact with the peripheral wall 148 of the first dust storage section 140 of the vacuum cleaner 100 when the vacuum cleaner 100 is connected to the collection device 200. Specifically, the front end of the upstream duct 220 is in contact with the peripheral wall 148 of the first dust storage section 140 so as to surround the dust discharge port 167 of the first dust storage section 140 in the circumferential direction. The front end portion of the upstream duct 220 is wider than the rear end portion of the upstream duct 220, and the dust discharge cover 168 of the first dust storage section 140 can fit into the front end portion of the upstream duct 220.

[0034] A downstream duct 230 extends from the upper wall of the second dust storage section 210 to form a flow path for the air flowing out of the second dust storage section 210. A thin plate-shaped filter member 211 is housed inside the second dust storage section 210 so as to block the base end of the downstream duct 230 that is connected to the upper wall of the second dust storage section 210. The filter member 211 is configured to allow air to flow out into the downstream duct 230 while retaining dust inside the second dust storage section 210.

[0035] The tip of the downstream duct 230 is wide enough to be inserted into the inflow space 125 through the connection port 126 of the vacuum cleaner 100. Since the upper wall of the second dust storage section 210 is lower than the connection port 126 of the vacuum cleaner 100, the downstream duct 230 forms a flow path that extends diagonally upward from the upper wall of the second dust storage section 210 toward the front.

[0036] (Operation of the cleaning tool set) During cleaning, the vacuum cleaner 100 is separated from the collection device 200, so the lid 127 of the vacuum cleaner 100 is biased to the closed position by the lid biasing unit 129, closing the connection port 126. In this state, even if the suction source 111 is activated, no air flows into the inflow space 125 through the connection port 126.

[0037] Meanwhile, the suction force of the suction source 111 acts on the dust on the floor surface through the first dust storage section 140, the suction pipe 120, and the suction nozzle 130. As a result, the dust on the floor surface flows into the suction nozzle 130 along with the air and flows through the flow path of the suction pipe 120. The air and dust then flow into the first dust storage section 140. The air that flows into the first dust storage section 140 passes through the filter 112 and flows towards the suction source 111. Meanwhile, the dust that flows into the first dust storage section 140 is retained within the first dust storage section 140 by the filtration section 147 and the filter 112. As a result, the dust is stored within the first dust storage section 140.

[0038] To dispose of the dust accumulated in the first dust storage section 140, the user displaces the dust discharge lid 168 to the open position and opens the dust discharge port 167. In this state, the user connects the vacuum cleaner 100 to the recovery device 200 from the front. At this time, the dust discharge lid 168, which has been displaced to the open position, is inserted into the front end portion of the upstream duct 220 of the recovery device 200. The front end of the upstream duct 220 then comes into contact with the peripheral wall portion 148 of the first dust storage section 140. As a result, the dust storage space 145 of the first dust storage section 140 communicates with the internal space of the second dust storage section 210 through the flow path of the upstream duct 220.

[0039] When the user brings the vacuum cleaner 100 closer to the collection device 200 so that the peripheral wall portion 148 of the first dust storage section 140 comes into contact with the front end of the upstream duct 220, the downstream duct 230 is connected to the housing 119 of the vacuum cleaner body 110, as shown in Figures 4 and 5. That is, the tip of the downstream duct 230 is inserted into the connection port 126 formed in the lower part of the housing 119. Subsequently, as the vacuum cleaner 100 approaches the collection device 200, the tip of the downstream duct 230 pushes forward the lid 127 located in the inflow space 125. At this time, the lid 127 tilts forward around the pivot axis portion 128 and is displaced from the closed position to the open position. As a result, the lid 127 is positioned lying on the upper lid portion 164 of the first dust storage section 140 in the inflow space 125, as shown in Figure 5.

[0040] After the connection state shown in Figure 5 is achieved, the user activates the suction source 111. At this time, the suction force of the suction source 111 acts on the dust in the first dust storage section 140 through the inlet space 125 of the vacuum cleaner 100, the flow path of the downstream duct 230 of the collection device 200, the internal space of the second dust storage section 210, and the flow path of the upstream duct 220. As a result, the dust in the first dust storage section 140 flows into the second dust storage section 210 through the upstream duct 220 along with the air. This dust is retained within the second dust storage section 210 by the filter member 211 provided in the second dust storage section 210. Meanwhile, the air in the second dust storage section 210 is sucked out into the downstream duct 230 by the suction force of the suction source 111, and then flows into the inlet space 125 of the vacuum cleaner 100.

[0041] Due to the suction force of the suction source 111, the air in the first dust collection section 140 of the vacuum cleaner 100 attempts to flow upward into the inflow space 125 through the through-hole 165 of the top cover 164 and the filter 112. However, the lid 127, which lies horizontally above the top cover 164, and the tip of the downstream duct 230 inserted into the inflow space 125, create resistance to the upward flow of air from the first dust collection section 140. As a result, less air flows upward into the inflow space 125 through the through-hole 165 of the top cover 164 and the filter 112. On the other hand, more air flows into the inflow space 125 through the upstream duct 220, the second dust collection section 210, and the downstream duct 230.

[0042] In the cleaning tool set 101 shown in Figure 1, the upstream duct 220 connected to the first dust collection section 140 extends in a nearly horizontal position, while the downstream duct 230 extends diagonally upward and is inserted into the inflow space 125 above the first dust collection section 140. Therefore, the upstream duct 220 and the downstream duct 230 allow air to flow into the inflow space 125 without flowing downward.

[0043] If the upstream duct 220 and the downstream duct 230 form a flow path section in which air flows downward, this flow path section is inefficient for directing air from the first dust storage section 140 to the inflow space 125 above the first dust storage section 140. On the other hand, if the upstream duct 220 and the downstream duct 230 do not form such a flow path section, as in the cleaning tool set 101 shown in Figure 1, the flow path formed by the upstream duct 220 and the downstream duct 230 can be shortened. Therefore, the resistance to air flowing into the inflow space 125 through the upstream duct 220, the second dust storage section 210, and the downstream duct 230 is reduced, and dust can be efficiently transferred from the first dust storage section 140 to the second dust storage section 210.

[0044] The upstream duct 220 shown in Figure 1 extends from the second dust storage section 210 in a substantially horizontal position. Alternatively, the upstream duct 220 may extend from the second dust storage section 210 in a position inclined diagonally downward. In this case, a flow path is formed through which dust and air flow diagonally upward from the first dust storage section 140.

[0045] The downstream duct 230 shown in Figure 1 extends diagonally upward from the second dust collection section 210. Alternatively, if the second dust collection section 210 is taller than the height of the connection port 126 of the vacuum cleaner 100 connected to the recovery device 200, the downstream duct 230 may extend from the second dust collection section 210 in a substantially horizontal position.

[0046] The dust cover 168 shown in Figure 1 is opened and closed manually by the user. Alternatively, the dust cover 168 may be biased to the closed position, closing the dust outlet 167, by a biasing member such as a torsion spring. In this case, the suction source 111 is configured to generate a suction force large enough to rotate the dust cover 168 to the open position, opening the dust outlet 167, against the biasing force of the biasing member.

[0047] The lid 127 shown in Figure 2 is biased to the closed position by the lid biasing mechanism 129. Alternatively, the lid 127 may be moved to the closed and open positions by the user themselves. In this case, the lid biasing mechanism 129 may be omitted.

[0048] The filter member 211 in the second dust storage section 210 shown in Figure 2 is in the shape of a thin plate. Alternatively, the filter member 211 may be a breathable bag formed to contain dust that has passed through the upstream duct 220.

[0049] The lid 127 shown in Figures 4 and 5 is configured to tilt forward from the closed position. Alternatively, the lid 127 may be displaced vertically, as shown in Figures 6 and 7. Specifically, in the housing 119, a vertically elongated hole 172 is formed in the upper wall portion 171 of the connection port 126. This hole 172 is formed to allow the lid 127, which is in the closed position shown in Figure 6, to be displaced upward. Displacement in the left-right and front-back directions is restricted by the wall portion 171 surrounding the hole 172.

[0050] A lid biasing member 129 is housed within the hole 172, which biases the lid 127 downward. This lid biasing member 129 may be composed of, for example, a coil spring.

[0051] The rear surface of the cover 127 and the front surface of the downstream duct 230 are formed to abut each other. Specifically, the rear surface of the cover 127 and the front surface of the downstream duct 230 are inclined such that an upward force acts on the cover 127 as the rear surface of the cover 127 is pressed against the front surface of the downstream duct 230.

[0052] The flow path of the downstream duct 230 opens upward at the tip of the downstream duct 230. As shown in Figure 7, the tip of the downstream duct 230 is configured to divide the inflow space 125 vertically when inserted into the inflow space 125.

[0053] When the vacuum cleaner 100 is separated from the collection device 200, the lid 127 is pushed downward by the lid biasing part 129, closing the connection port 126. When the suction source 111 is activated in this state, the suction force of the suction source 111 acts on the first dust storage section 140 through the inflow space 125. As a result, the air in the first dust storage section 140 is sucked upward and flows into the inflow space 125.

[0054] When the user connects the vacuum cleaner 100 to the collection device 200, the rear surface of the cover 127 is pressed against the front end of the downstream duct 230. As a result, the cover 127 receives an upward force, compressing and deforming the cover biasing portion 129, and displacing upward along the hole 172. When the user pushes the vacuum cleaner 100 further backward, the front end of the downstream duct 230 enters the inflow space 125 through the connection port 126. In this state, the front end of the downstream duct 230 divides the inflow space 125 vertically. At this time, the suction force of the suction source 111 acts on the space above the front end of the downstream duct 230, drawing out the air in the flow path of the downstream duct 230. On the other hand, the suction force of the suction source 111 acting on the space below the front end of the downstream duct 230 is prevented by the front end of the downstream duct 230. Therefore, the upward suction of air from within the first dust storage section 140 is suppressed.

[0055] The cover 127 shown in Figures 6 and 7 is configured to be displaceable in the vertical direction. Alternatively, the cover 127 may be provided to be displaceable in the circumferential direction of the housing 119, as shown in Figures 8 and 9.

[0056] The cover 127 shown in Figures 8 and 9 has two cover pieces 173 and 174. Cover piece 173 shown in Figure 8 closes the left half of the connection port 126. The other cover piece 174 closes the right half of the connection port 126. The right end portion of the left cover piece 173 and the left end portion of the right cover piece 174 are formed such that when these cover pieces 173 and 174 are abutted against each other, a roughly triangular recess 179 is obtained in plan view.

[0057] The lid biasing section 129 includes a spring body 175 connected to the left lid piece 173 and a spring body 176 connected to the right lid piece 174. Furthermore, grooves 177 and 178 for accommodating these spring bodies 175 and 176 are recessed into the inner surface of the housing 119.

[0058] The tip of the downstream duct 230 is formed in a semi-circular shape in plan view, and the flow path of the downstream duct 230 opens upward at its tip. From the tip of the downstream duct 230, a protrusion 231 is provided that is complementary to a roughly triangular recess 179 formed by the abutted cover pieces 173 and 174.

[0059] When the vacuum cleaner 100 is separated from the retrieval device 200, the lid pieces 173 and 174 are abutted against each other by the spring bodies 175 and 176, closing the connection port 126. When the user connects the vacuum cleaner 100 to the retrieval device 200, the protrusion 231 provided at the tip of the downstream duct 230 is inserted into the recess 179 formed by the lid pieces 173 and 174. When the vacuum cleaner body 110 is pushed further backward from this state, the lid pieces 173 and 174 are pushed open in the left-right direction by the tip of the downstream duct 230. That is, the lid pieces 173 and 174 are displaced in the circumferential direction of the housing 119 along the grooves 177 and 178. As a result, the tip of the downstream duct 230 enters the inflow space 125, and the inflow space 125 can be divided vertically.

[0060] As shown in Figure 10, the housing 119 of the vacuum cleaner body 110 may form a substantially rectangular inlet space 125 in a plan view. In this case, the lid 127 may be formed in a substantially rectangular plate shape and attached to the housing 119 so as to be displaceable in the front-rear direction.

[0061] Specifically, rail members 181 and 182 are fixed to the inner surfaces of the left and right walls of the housing 119 so as to support the left and right ends of the lid 127. The rail members 181 and 182 extend in the front-rear direction and support the lid 127 from below while it moves in the front-rear direction.

[0062] Spring bodies 175 and 176 extend forward from the front surface of the lid 127. The front ends of the spring bodies 175 and 176 are fixed to the inner surface of the front wall of the housing 119. These spring bodies 175 and 176 constitute a lid biasing section 129 that biases the lid 127 to the closed position. When the lid 127 is displaced forward from the closed position shown in Figure 10, these spring bodies 175 and 176 are compressed and deformed.

[0063] A spacer 183 is fixed to the front surface of the lid 127 so as to form a space between the lid 127 and the front wall of the housing 119 for accommodating the compressed and deformed spring bodies 175 and 176. The spacer 183 is a long, rod-shaped member in the left-right direction, with its left end in contact with the inner surface of the left wall of the housing 119. The right end of the spacer 183 is in contact with the inner surface of the right wall of the housing 119.

[0064] As shown in Figure 11, the lid 127 can be pushed into the housing 119 until the spacer 183 contacts the inner surface of the front wall of the housing 119. At this time, the lid 127 is separated from the front wall of the housing 119 by the thickness of the spacer 183, and a space is formed between the lid 127 and the front wall of the housing 119. The compressed and deformed spring bodies 175 and 176 are housed in this space.

[0065] The tip of the downstream duct 230 is formed in a rectangular tube shape. The flow path of the downstream duct 230 opens upward at its tip. The width of the tip of the downstream duct 230 is approximately equal to the width of the inflow space 125.

[0066] When the user connects the vacuum cleaner body 110 to the collection device 200, they press the cover 127 against the end of the downstream duct 230. In this state, when the user pushes the vacuum cleaner body 110 backward, the cover 127 is pushed forward by the downstream duct 230. As a result, the cover 127 is displaced forward relative to the housing 119 along the rail members 181 and 182. The user can push the vacuum cleaner body 110 backward until the spacer 183 contacts the front wall of the housing 119.

[0067] When the spacer 183 contacts the front wall of the housing 119, the inflow space 125 is divided vertically by the spacer 183, the cover 127, and the tip of the downstream duct 230. As a result, the suction force of the suction source 111 acts on the space below the spacer 183, the cover 127, and the tip of the downstream duct 230, and consequently, the upward flow of air from the first dust storage section 140 into this lower space is suppressed. On the other hand, the suction force of the suction source 111 acts on the space above the spacer 183, the cover 127, and the tip of the downstream duct 230, so the air in the flow path of the downstream duct 230 is drawn out into the inflow space 125.

[0068] <Second Embodiment> In the cleaning tool set 101 of the first embodiment, the suction force of the suction source 111 acts not only on the flow path of the downstream duct 230 but also on the outside of the downstream duct 230. Alternatively, the cleaning tool set 101 may be modified so that the suction force of the suction source 111 acts concentratedly on the flow path of the downstream duct 230. In this case, the cleaning tool set 101 may be configured as shown in Figure 12.

[0069] The inflow space 125 shown in Figure 12 has a lower space 184 and an upper space 185 above the lower space 184. When the suction source 111 is activated with the vacuum cleaner 100 separated from the collection device 200, the air flowing upward from the first dust collection section 140 flows into the lower space 184 and then passes through the upper space 185.

[0070] The upper space 185 has a smaller flow path cross-sectional area than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the lower space 184. Therefore, an annular abutment surface 186 is formed at the boundary between the upper space 185 and the lower space 184. The abutment surface 186 is inclined to rise towards the rear.

[0071] As shown in Figure 13, the tip surface 232 of the downstream duct 230, which is inserted into the inflow space 125 through the connection port 126, abuts against the abutting surface 186. This tip surface 232 is inclined to match the inclination of the abutting surface 186 so that it contacts the abutting surface 186 as a whole.

[0072] When the user pushes the vacuum cleaner body 110 backward until the abutting surface 186 abuts against the tip surface 232 of the downstream duct 230, the upper space 185 forms a flow path that is continuously connected to the flow path of the downstream duct 230. That is, the upper space 185 forms a flow path that curves backward along with the flow path of the downstream duct 230. Therefore, the suction force of the suction source 111 can act concentratedly on the flow path of the downstream duct 230 through the upper space 185. On the other hand, since the suction force of the suction source 111 hardly acts on the lower space 184, upward air outflow from the first dust collection section 140 to the lower space 184 is suppressed by the abutting structure between the abutting surface 186 and the tip surface 232 of the downstream duct 230.

[0073] To further suppress air inflow through the joint between the abutment surface 186 and the end surface 232 of the downstream duct 230, the abutment surface 186 may be formed by an annular sealing material 187 fixed to the housing 119, as shown in Figure 14. Alternatively, the sealing material 187 may form the end surface 232 of the downstream duct 230, as shown in Figure 15. When compressed and deformed, the sealing material 187 can restrict air inflow through the joint between the abutment surface 186 and the end surface 232 of the downstream duct 230.

[0074] <Third Embodiment> In the cleaning tool set 101 of the first and second embodiments, the upward outflow of air from the first dust collection section 140 through the top cover 164 and filter 112 into the inflow space 125 is suppressed by the tip of the downstream duct 230 inserted into the inflow space 125. Alternatively, the upward outflow of air from the first dust collection section 140 may be suppressed by a magnetic valve 188 housed in the housing 119 of the vacuum cleaner 100, as shown in Figure 16.

[0075] The magnetic valve 188 shown in Figure 16 is positioned lower than the connection port 126 and is displaceable in the front-rear direction within the inflow space 125. A valve biasing part 189 is attached to the magnetic valve 188, and the valve biasing part 189 pulls it forward. In the following description, the position of the magnetic valve 188 shown in Figure 16 will be referred to as the "open position". When the magnetic valve 188 is in the open position, air in the first dust storage section 140 is allowed to flow upward into the inflow space 125 through the top cover 164 and the filter 112.

[0076] As shown in Figure 17, when the magnetic valve 188 is displaced backward against the biasing force of the valve biasing section 189, it divides the inflow space 125 into the space above the magnetic valve 188 and the space below the magnetic valve 188. In the following description, the position of the magnetic valve 188 shown in Figure 17 will be referred to as the "closed position". When the magnetic valve 188 is in the closed position, it can restrict the upward flow of air in the space below the magnetic valve 188 and in the first dust storage section 140.

[0077] To displace the magnetic valve 188 from the open position to the closed position, the recovery device 200 has a magnetic piece 233. The magnetic piece 233 and the magnetic valve 188 are formed to be magnetically attracted to each other.

[0078] The magnetic piece 233 is positioned so as to be at approximately the same height as the magnetic valve 188 when the downstream duct 230 is inserted into the connection port 126 of the vacuum cleaner 100. For example, to hold the magnetic piece 233 at this height, it may be fixed to a retaining bracket attached to the downstream duct 230, for example. Alternatively, this retaining bracket may be attached to the base 102 shown in Figure 1.

[0079] The user inserts the downstream duct 230 into the connection port 126 while pushing the housing 119 backward until the magnetic piece 233 contacts the outer surface of the housing 119. This causes the magnetic valve 188 to approach the magnetic piece 233 in a position facing it in the front-rear direction. As a result, the magnetic valve 188 is displaced from the open position to the closed position against the biasing force of the valve biasing part 189. When the suction source 111 is activated in this state, the suction force of the suction source 111 acts on the flow path of the downstream duct 230, while being restricted from acting on the space below the magnetic valve 188. As a result, the air in the flow path of the downstream duct 230 is drawn out into the space above the magnetic piece 233.

[0080] Instead of the magnetic piece 233 provided on the recovery device 200, an electromagnet 190 may be provided on the vacuum cleaner 100, as shown in Figure 18. The electromagnet 190 is fixed to the housing 119 on the rear side of the magnetic valve 188 so as to face the magnetic valve 188 in the front-rear direction.

[0081] To supply power to the electromagnet 190, the vacuum cleaner 100 includes a power supply unit 191 electrically connected to the electromagnet 190, and an operating unit 192 operated to instruct the power supply unit 191 to supply power to the electromagnet 190. The power supply unit 191 may be housed in the upper part of the housing 119 together with a storage battery 114 and a suction source 111. The operating unit 192 may be provided on the grip 113 of the vacuum cleaner 100.

[0082] The power supply unit 191 is electrically connected to the battery 114, and is configured to supply power from the battery 114 to the electromagnet 190 when power supply is instructed by operation of the control unit 192. In response to this power supply, the electromagnet 190 magnetically attracts the magnetic valve 188, and the magnetic valve 188 can be displaced from the open position to the closed position.

[0083] <Fourth Embodiment> In the third embodiment, the inflow space 125 is partitioned vertically by a magnetic valve 188. Alternatively, the inflow space 125 may be partitioned vertically by a thin plate-shaped restricting portion 193, as shown in Figure 19.

[0084] The restrictor 193 is held in place by the housing 119 at a position higher than the connection port 126. An extrusion section 194 is attached to the front end of the restrictor 193, which biases the restrictor 193 to push it backward from the inflow space 125. A housing chamber 195 for housing the extrusion section 194 is formed inside the housing 119. This extrusion section 194 may be composed of, for example, a coil spring extending in the front-rear direction.

[0085] Below the restricting section 193, an insertion space 196 is formed into which the tip of the downstream duct 230 is inserted. The insertion space 196 is open to the outside through the connection port 126. Inside the housing 119, a partition plate 197 is erected to separate the inflow space 125 and the insertion space 196 front to back. The upper end of the partition plate 197 abuts against the lower surface of the restricting section 193, supporting the restricting section 193. The insertion space 196 opens upward between the partition plate 197 and the rear wall of the housing 119.

[0086] As shown in Figure 20, the housing 119 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape in plan view, and the restricting portion 193 has a rectangular shape with substantially the same width as the internal space of the housing 119. The restricting portion 193 has a first communication opening 198 and a second communication opening 199 that are spaced apart in the front-rear direction. In the following description, the portion of the restricting portion 193 between the first communication opening 198 and the second communication opening 199 will be referred to as the "closing portion 150".

[0087] The first communication opening 198 is formed in the front portion of the regulating section 193. When no forward external force is applied to the regulating section 193, the upper and lower spaces of the regulating section 193 in the inflow space 125 communicate with each other through the first communication opening 198.

[0088] The second communication port 199 is formed in the rear portion of the restricting section 193. When no forward external force is applied to the restricting section 193, the rear portion of the restricting section 193 is extended outwards from the housing 119. In this state, as shown in Figure 19, the insertion space 196 is separated from the inflow space 125 by the closing portion 150 of the restricting section 193. Therefore, even if the suction source 111 is activated when no forward external force is applied to the restricting section 193, air from outside the housing 119 does not flow into the inflow space 125 through the connection port 126. On the other hand, since the inflow space 125 is not divided vertically by the restricting section 193, air flowing upward from the first dust collection section 140 can flow from the space below the restricting section 193 in the inflow space 125 through the first communication port 198 to the space above the restricting section 193.

[0089] A push-in portion 234 for pushing the restricting portion 193 forward into the housing 119 protrudes upward from the downstream duct 230. The flow path of the downstream duct 230 opens upward at the tip of the downstream duct 230 that is inserted into the insertion space 196.

[0090] The user pushes the vacuum cleaner body 110 backward while inserting the tip of the downstream duct 230 into the insertion space 196 through the connection port 126. At this time, the restricting part 193 protrudes significantly backward from the housing 119, and the rear end of the restricting part 193 strikes the pushing part 234. If the user pushes the vacuum cleaner body 110 further backward in this state, the pushing part 234 pushes the restricting part 193 forward. As a result, the restricting part 193 moves forward relative to the housing 119, compressing and deforming the extrusion part 194, and is pushed into the inflow space 125.

[0091] When the housing 119 is pushed backward until the tip of the downstream duct 230 abuts against the partition plate 197, the flow path of the downstream duct 230 communicates with the inflow space 125 through the second communication port 199 of the regulating section 193. When the suction source 111 is activated in this state, the air in the flow path of the downstream duct 230 is drawn out into the inflow space 125.

[0092] At this time, the occluding portion 150 of the restricting portion 193 is positioned to divide the inflow space 125 vertically. Therefore, the suction force of the suction source 111 does not act on the area below the restricting portion 193 in the inflow space 125, and upward air outflow from the first dust storage portion 140 into this area is suppressed.

[0093] When the user subsequently separates the vacuum cleaner 100 from the collection device 200, the restricting section 193 is pushed backward by the extrusion section 194, displacing it from the position shown in Figure 21 to the position shown in Figure 19. That is, the restricting section 193 is pulled out from the housing 119. In this state, the inflow space 125 is not partitioned vertically, and when the suction source 111 is activated, the air in the first dust storage section 140 is sucked upward by the suction force of the suction source 111.

[0094] The vacuum cleaner 100 shown in Figure 19 has an extrusion unit 194, so the restricting unit 193 can be displaced from the position shown in Figure 21 to the position shown in Figure 19 without the user having to pull it out themselves. However, the vacuum cleaner 100 may also be configured so that the user can displace the restricting unit 193 in the front-rear direction. In this case, the extrusion unit 194 may be omitted.

[0095] The restrictor 193 shown in Figure 19 is held by the housing 119 above the connection port 126. Alternatively, the restrictor 193 may be held below the connection port 126. In this case, the push-in portion 234 is provided to protrude downward from the downstream duct 230.

[0096] <Fifth Embodiment> In the fourth embodiment, the restricting portion 193 is pulled out from the housing 119 to the rear during cleaning, and the rear portion of the restricting portion 193 may protrude significantly from the housing 119. To reduce the amount of protrusion of the restricting portion 193, the vacuum cleaner 100 may be improved as shown in Figure 22.

[0097] The inflow space 125 shown in Figure 22 has a lower space 151 formed in front of the partition plate 197 and an upper space 152 formed above the lower space 151. An insertion space 196 is formed behind the lower space 151, and the lower space 151 and the insertion space 196 are separated in the front-rear direction by the partition plate 197. The upper space 152 has a larger flow path cross-sectional area than the lower space 151 so that it can communicate with the lower space 151 and the insertion space 196.

[0098] A fixed disc 153 and a regulating section 193 are positioned in a substantially horizontal position at the boundary between the lower space 151 and the upper space 152. The fixed disc 153 is fixed to the housing 119. As shown in Figure 23, a first communication opening 198 and a second communication opening 199 are formed on the fixed disc 153, spaced apart in the front-rear direction. The first communication opening 198 is formed in front of the second communication opening 199 and is provided to connect the lower space 151 to the upper space 152. The second communication opening 199 is provided to connect the insertion space 196 to the upper space 152.

[0099] The regulating unit 193 is rotatably mounted on the housing 119 on a fixed disc 153 and has a disc portion 154 that is approximately the same shape and size as the housing 119, and an operating piece 155 that protrudes from the outer edge of the disc portion 154. As shown in Figure 22, the disc portion 154 is housed inside the housing 119, while the operating piece 155 protrudes to the outside of the housing 119. Therefore, the user can rotate the regulating unit 193 by grasping the operating piece 155.

[0100] As shown in Figure 23, a hole 156 is formed in the disc portion 154. By rotating the regulating portion 193, the hole 156 can be positioned to overlap the first communication opening 198 or the second communication opening 199 of the fixed disc 153 in the vertical direction. In Figures 22 and 23, the regulating portion 193 has the hole 156 on the outside of the lower space 151, and partitions the lower space 151 and the upper space 152 vertically. In this state, the regulating portion 193 restricts the suction force of the suction source 111 from acting on the lower space 151, and consequently, restricts the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage portion 140 into the lower space 151.

[0101] On the other hand, the hole 156 overlaps the second communication opening 199 of the fixed disc 153 in the vertical direction, and the insertion space 196 and the upper space 152 communicate with each other through the second communication opening 199 of the fixed disc 153 and the hole 156 of the regulating part 193. The rotational position of the regulating part 193 shown in Figures 22 and 23 will be referred to as the "closed rotational position" in the following description.

[0102] The user can grasp the operating piece 155 and rotate the restrictor 193 to the position shown in Figures 24 and 25. The rotation position of the restrictor 193 shown in Figures 24 and 25 will be referred to as the "open rotation position" in the following description. When the restrictor 193 reaches the open rotation position, the hole 156 overlaps the first communication port 198 and the lower space 151, and the lower space 151 and the upper space 152 are connected. When the suction source 111 is activated in this state, the suction force of the suction source 111 causes air to flow upward from the first dust storage section 140, passing sequentially through the lower space 151 and the upper space 152. Meanwhile, the second communication port 199 is blocked by the restrictor 193.

[0103] During cleaning, the user sets the restrictor 193 to the open rotation position and activates the suction source 111. In this case, the suction force of the suction source 111 allows the air in the first dust storage section 140 to pass sequentially upward through the lower space 151 and the upper space 152. On the other hand, since the insertion space 196 is separated from the upper space 152 by the restrictor 193, no air flows in through the connection port 126 and the insertion space 196, and the decrease in the suction force of the suction source 111 acting on the first dust storage section 140 is suppressed. As a result, a strong suction force acts on the first dust storage section 140, and dust sucked up from the floor flows into the first dust storage section 140.

[0104] After completing the cleaning work, the user stops the suction source 111 and rotates the restrictor 193 to the closed position. Then, the user inserts the downstream duct 230 into the connection port 126 and pushes the vacuum cleaner body 110 backward until the tip of the downstream duct 230 contacts the partition plate 197. As a result, as shown in Figure 26, the flow path of the downstream duct 230 communicates with the upper space 152 through the second communication port 199 and the hole 156. When the suction source 111 is activated in this state, the air in the flow path of the downstream duct 230 flows into the upper space 152. At this time, since the lower space 151 is separated from the upper space 152 by the restrictor 193, the suction force of the suction source 111 does not act on the lower space 151.

[0105] The restricting portion 193 shown in Figure 23 has a hole 156 formed in it. Alternatively, the restricting portion 193 may have a notch 157 formed in it, as shown in Figure 27.

[0106] (Effects, etc.) The cleaning tool set 101 according to the above embodiment has the following features and provides the following effects.

[0107] A cleaning tool set according to one aspect of the above-described embodiment includes a vacuum cleaner having a housing that houses a suction source that generates an upward suction force for sucking up dust and air, a first dust storage section that captures and stores dust contained in the air sucked in by the suction force of the suction source and allows the air to flow out upward, and a collection device for collecting dust from the first dust storage section. The first dust storage section has a dust discharge port that allows dust to be discharged from the first dust storage section. The collection device includes a second dust storage section configured to store dust that has flowed out of the first dust storage section and to allow air that has flowed out of the first dust storage section to pass through, an upstream duct connected to the dust discharge port of the first dust storage section and forming a flow path for air and dust flowing from the dust discharge port to the second dust storage section, and a downstream duct extending from the second dust storage section to form a flow path for air that has flowed out of the second dust storage section. The vacuum cleaner housing has a connection port where the downstream duct is connected at a lower position than the suction source, and it also forms an inflow space below the suction source into which air that has passed through the downstream duct flows. The upstream and downstream ducts are extended so that the air sucked out from the dust discharge port of the first dust collection section by the suction force of the suction source flows into the inflow space without flowing downwards.

[0108] In the above configuration, during cleaning, the vacuum cleaner's suction source generates an upward suction force, causing dust-laden air to flow into the first dust storage section. The first dust storage section captures and stores the dust contained in this air. As a result, the air with reduced dust flows upward from the first dust storage section and through the inflow space from the first dust storage section to the suction source. Consequently, the suction source can be protected from dust.

[0109] To collect dust stored in the first dust storage section, the vacuum cleaner and collection device are connected as follows: The upstream duct of the collection device is connected to a dust outlet formed in the first dust storage section. The downstream duct of the collection device is connected to a connection port formed in the housing at a lower position than the vacuum cleaner's suction source. In this state, when the vacuum cleaner's suction source is activated, the suction force of the suction source can act on the first dust storage section through the downstream duct of the collection device, the second dust storage section, and the upstream duct. As a result, the dust in the first dust storage section flows out into the upstream duct through the dust outlet and then into the second dust storage section. This dust is retained in the second dust storage section, while the air sucked out from the first dust storage section along with this dust flows out of the second dust storage section and into the inflow space through the downstream duct. Because the amount of dust in this air is reduced by the second dust storage section, the suction source is protected from dust even when collecting dust from the first dust storage section to the second dust storage section.

[0110] The upstream and downstream ducts used to collect dust from the first dust storage section to the second dust storage section are extended so that the air drawn out from the first dust storage section does not flow downwards but flows to a suction source located above the first dust storage section. In this case, the length of the flow path formed by the upstream and downstream ducts may be shorter than when there is a flow path section in which the air drawn out from the first dust storage section flows downwards. As a result, the resistance exerted by the upstream and downstream ducts on the airflow generated when collecting dust from the first dust storage section to the second dust storage section may be reduced.

[0111] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may have a lid attached to the housing so as to be displaceable between an open position that opens the connection port and a closed position that closes the connection port, and a lid biasing part that biases the lid to the closed position. The downstream duct may be formed so as to be insertable into the inflow space through the connection port. The lid may be displaced from the closed position to the open position by being pushed by the downstream duct inserted into the inflow space.

[0112] In the above configuration, the lid is biased to the closed position by the lid biasing part, thus preventing the connection port from being unintentionally opened during cleaning. When the user inserts the downstream duct into the inflow space to collect dust from the first dust storage section to the second dust storage section, the lid is pushed by the downstream duct and displaced to the open position. The downstream duct inserted into the inflow space can act as resistance to the airflow of air flowing upward from the first dust storage section. Therefore, the air flowing upward from the first dust storage section can be reduced by the downstream duct. By the amount of this reduction in air, the suction force acting on the first dust storage section through the downstream duct, the second dust storage section, and the upstream duct can increase.

[0113] In the above configuration, the lid may be configured to lie horizontally in the inflow space when displaced to the open position by the downstream duct, thereby suppressing the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage section.

[0114] In the above configuration, when the user inserts the downstream duct into the connection port and displaces the lid to the open position, the lid lies horizontally within the inflow space, suppressing the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage section. The amount by which the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage section is suppressed may increase the suction force acting on the first dust storage section through the downstream duct, the second dust storage section, and the upstream duct.

[0115] In the above configuration, the downstream duct may be formed to be insertable into the inflow space through a connection port. The housing is configured to have a lower space into which air flowing upward from the first dust collection section flows, and an upper space above the lower space having a smaller flow path cross-sectional area than the lower space, and may have a mating surface at the boundary between the lower space and the upper space that abuts against the end surface of the downstream duct inserted into the inflow space. The outflow of upward air from the first dust collection section into the lower space may be suppressed by bringing the abutting surface and the tip surface of the downstream duct into contact.

[0116] In the configuration described above, during cleaning, the air flowing upward from the first dust storage section due to the suction force of the suction source passes sequentially through the lower space and upper space and flows towards the suction source. When collecting dust from the first dust storage section to the second dust storage section, the leading edge of the downstream duct inserted into the inflow space abuts against a joint surface provided at the boundary between the lower space and the upper space. In this state, the air in the downstream duct flows towards the suction source through the upper space, while the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage section to the lower space is suppressed. Therefore, the suction force of the suction source can strongly act on the dust in the first dust storage section through the upper space, the downstream duct, the second dust storage section, and the upstream duct.

[0117] In the above configuration, the butt joint or the tip of the downstream duct may be made of a sealing material that restricts the inflow of air through the joint between the butt joint and the tip of the downstream duct.

[0118] In the above configuration, since the butt joint or the tip of the downstream duct is made of sealing material, the inflow of air through the joint between the butt joint and the tip of the downstream duct is restricted. As a result, the suction force of the suction source acting on the dust in the first dust storage section through the upper space, the downstream duct, the second dust storage section, and the upstream duct may become stronger.

[0119] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may have a magnetic valve that is displaceable between a closed position that restricts the upward flow of air from the first dust collection section below the connection port and an open position that allows the upward flow of air from the first dust collection section, and a valve biasing unit that biases the magnetic valve to the open position. The recovery device may have a magnetic piece that magnetically attracts the magnetic valve so that the magnetic valve is displaced to the closed position when the downstream duct is connected to the connection port.

[0120] In the configuration described above, during cleaning, the magnetic valve is displaced to the open position by the valve biasing unit. When the suction source is activated in this state, air flows upward from the first dust storage unit, and this air flows towards the suction source through the inflow space. As air flows out from the first dust storage unit, dust-containing air flows into the first dust storage unit, and this dust is stored within the first dust storage unit.

[0121] When collecting dust from the first dust storage section to the second dust storage section, the downstream duct of the collection device is connected to the vacuum cleaner's connection port. At this time, the magnetic piece of the collection device magnetically attracts the magnetic valve of the vacuum cleaner. Due to this magnetic attraction, the magnetic valve is displaced to the closed position. Even if the suction source is activated in this state, the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage section is restricted by the magnetic valve. Therefore, the suction force of the suction source acts strongly on the dust in the first dust storage section through the inflow space, the downstream duct, the second dust storage section, and the upstream duct.

[0122] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may include a magnetic valve that is displaceable between a closed position that restricts upward airflow from the first dust collection section below the connection port and an open position that allows upward airflow from the first dust collection section; a valve biasing unit that biases the magnetic valve to the open position; an electromagnet that magnetically attracts the magnetic valve in response to the supply of power so that the magnetic valve is displaced to the closed position; a power supply unit that supplies power to the electromagnet; and an operating unit that is operated to instruct the power supply unit to supply power to the magnet.

[0123] In the configuration described above, the user can instruct the power supply unit to supply power to the electromagnet by operating the control unit. This power supply causes the magnetic valve to be magnetically attracted to the electromagnet and displaced from the open position to the closed position. In this state, a vacuum cleaner can be connected to the collection device. When the suction source is activated, the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage unit is suppressed, while dust is transferred from the first dust storage unit to the second dust storage unit.

[0124] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may have a restricting unit positioned in the inlet space to restrict the upward flow of air from the first dust collection unit. The housing may be formed so that the restricting unit can be pulled out from the inlet space. The restricting unit may be configured to allow upward flow of air from the first dust collection unit when it is pulled out from the inlet space.

[0125] In the configuration described above, during cleaning, the restricting unit is withdrawn from the inflow space. When the suction source is activated in this state, air flows upward from the first dust storage unit, and this air flows towards the suction source through the inflow space. As air flows out from the first dust storage unit, dust-containing air flows into the first dust storage unit, and this dust is stored within the first dust storage unit.

[0126] When dust is collected from the first dust storage section to the second dust storage section, the restricting section is positioned in the inflow space. Even if the suction source is activated in this state, the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage section is restricted by the restricting section. Therefore, the suction force of the suction source acts strongly on the dust in the first dust storage section through the inflow space, the downstream duct, the second dust storage section, and the upstream duct.

[0127] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may have an extrusion unit that biases the restricting unit to push it out of the inflow space.

[0128] In the above configuration, the restricting section is pushed out of the inflow space by the extrusion section. Therefore, the user does not need to pull the restricting section out of the inflow space themselves.

[0129] In the above configuration, the restricting portion may protrude outwards from the housing as it is withdrawn from the inflow space. The recovery device may have a pushing portion provided in the downstream duct to push the restricting portion protruding outwards from the housing back into the inflow space as the downstream duct is connected to the connection port.

[0130] In the configuration described above, when the user attempts to connect the downstream duct to the vacuum cleaner's connection port, the push-in portion provided in the downstream duct can push the restricting portion, which protrudes to the outside of the housing, into the inflow space. When the restricting portion is pushed into the inflow space by the push-in portion, it can restrict the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage section. As a result, the suction force of the suction source acts strongly on the dust in the first dust storage section through the inflow space, downstream duct, second dust storage section, and upstream duct.

[0131] In the above configuration, the inflow space may have a lower space into which air flowing upward from the first dust collection section flows, and an upper space above the lower space having a larger flow path cross-sectional area than the lower space. The upper space may be provided so as to be able to communicate with the flow path of a downstream duct connected to the connection port. The vacuum cleaner may have a restricting part mounted on the housing so as to be rotatable from a closed rotation position that closes the lower space to restrict air from flowing upward from the first dust collection section to an open rotation position that is angularly displaced by a predetermined angle. The restricting part may have a hole or notch formed therein that overlaps with the lower space when the restricting part is in the open rotation position. The hole or notch may be located outside the lower space when the restricting part is in the closed rotation position.

[0132] In the configuration described above, air flowing upward from the first dust storage section flows into the lower space of the inflow area, while air that has passed through the downstream duct can flow into the upper space, in addition to air flowing upward from the first dust storage section. For this reason, the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the upper space is larger than that of the lower space.

[0133] If the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the lower space is smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the upper space, the hole or notch of the restrictor can be positioned outside the lower space when the restrictor is in the closed rotation position. When the suction source is activated in this state, the upward outflow of air from the first dust collection section can be restricted by the restrictor.

[0134] When the regulating part is rotated from the closed rotation position to the open rotation position, the hole or notch of the regulating part overlaps with the lower space. When the suction source is activated in this state, the air in the first dust storage section can flow upward from the first dust storage section and through the lower and upper spaces toward the suction source.

[0135] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may have an operating piece that is operated to rotate the regulating part. The operating piece may be provided on the regulating part so as to be exposed to the outside of the housing.

[0136] In the configuration described above, the user can rotate the restrictor by operating the exposed control piece on the outside of the housing. [Industrial applicability]

[0137] The cleaning tool set of the above embodiment is suitably used in equipment used for cleaning work. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0138] 100··········vacuum cleaner 101············Cleaning tool set 111...Suction source 119············Cabinet 125 Inflow space 126············Connection port 127···········Lid 129 · · · · · · · · · Lid biasing part 140 1st dust storage section 151············Lower space 152... Upper space 155··················Operation piece 156... Hole 157···········Notch 167... Dust exhaust port 184············Lower space 185... Upper space 186············Butt joint 187············Sealing materials 188············Magnetic valve 189············Valve biasing section 190···········Electromagnet 191... Power supply section 192·············Operation section 193············Regulatory Department 194············Extrusion section 200··········· Recovery device 210 2nd dust storage section 220············Upstream duct 230············Downstream duct 232················Tip surface 233...Magnetic piece 234············Insertion section

Claims

1. A vacuum cleaner comprising: a housing containing a suction source that generates an upward suction force for sucking in dust and air; and a first dust storage section that captures and stores dust contained in the air sucked in by the suction force of the suction source, while allowing the air to flow out upward; The system includes a collection device for collecting dust from the first dust storage section, The first dust storage section is provided with a dust discharge port that allows dust to be discharged from the first dust storage section. The aforementioned recovery device is A second dust storage section is configured to store dust that flows out from the first dust storage section and to allow air that flows out from the first dust storage section to pass through, An upstream duct, connected to the dust discharge port of the first dust storage unit, forms a flow path for air and dust flowing from the dust discharge port to the second dust storage unit, It has a downstream duct extending from the second dust storage section so as to form a passage for the air flowing out from the second dust storage section, The housing of the vacuum cleaner has a connection port to which the downstream duct is connected at a position lower than the suction source, and an inflow space into which air that has passed through the downstream duct flows is formed below the suction source. A cleaning tool set wherein the upstream duct and the downstream duct are extended so that the air sucked out from the dust outlet of the first dust storage section by the suction force of the suction source flows into the inflow space without flowing downward.

2. The vacuum cleaner mentioned above, A lid is attached to the housing so as to be displaceable between an open position where the connection port is open and a closed position where the connection port is closed, It has a lid biasing part that biases the lid to the closed position, The downstream duct is formed to be insertable into the inflow space through the connection port, The cleaning tool set according to claim 1, wherein the cover is pushed by the downstream duct inserted into the inflow space and displaced from the closed position to the open position.

3. The cleaning tool set according to claim 2, wherein the cover is configured to lie horizontally in the inflow space when displaced to the open position by the downstream duct, thereby suppressing the upward outflow of air from the first dust collection section.

4. The downstream duct is formed to be insertable into the inflow space through the connection port, The housing is configured such that the inflow space has a lower space into which air flowing upward from the first dust collection section flows, and an upper space above the lower space having a smaller flow path cross-sectional area than the lower space, and at the boundary between the lower space and the upper space, there is a mating surface that abuts against the tip surface of the downstream duct inserted into the inflow space. The cleaning tool set according to claim 1, wherein the outflow of upward air from the first dust collection section to the lower space is suppressed by the abutting surface and the tip surface of the downstream duct being brought into contact.

5. The cleaning tool set according to claim 4, wherein the abutting surface or the tip surface of the downstream duct is made of a sealing material that restricts the inflow of air through the joint between the abutting surface and the tip surface of the downstream duct.

6. The vacuum cleaner mentioned above, A magnetic valve is provided that is displaceable between a closed position that restricts the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage section below the connection port and an open position that allows the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage section. It has a valve biasing unit that biases the magnetic valve to the open position, The cleaning tool set according to claim 1, wherein the recovery device has a magnetic piece that magnetically attracts the magnetic valve such that the magnetic valve is displaced to the closed position when the downstream duct is connected to the connection port.

7. The vacuum cleaner mentioned above, A magnetic valve is provided that is displaceable between a closed position that restricts the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage section below the connection port and an open position that allows the upward outflow of air from the first dust storage section. A valve biasing unit that biases the magnetic valve to the open position, An electromagnet magnetically attracts the magnetic valve in response to the supply of power, so that the magnetic valve is displaced to the closed position. A power supply unit that supplies power to the electromagnet, The cleaning tool set according to claim 1, further comprising an operating unit which is operated to instruct the power supply unit to supply power to the electromagnet.

8. The vacuum cleaner has a restricting unit positioned in the inflow space to restrict the upward flow of air from the first dust collection unit, The housing is formed such that the restricting portion can be pulled out from the inflow space, The cleaning tool set according to claim 1, wherein the restricting portion is configured to allow air to flow upward from the first dust collection portion when it is withdrawn from the inflow space.

9. The cleaning tool set according to claim 8, wherein the vacuum cleaner has an extrusion unit that biases the regulating unit to push it out of the inflow space.

10. The restricting portion protrudes outward from the housing as it is withdrawn from the inflow space. The cleaning tool set according to claim 8, wherein the recovery device has a pushing portion provided in the downstream duct so as to push the restricting portion protruding to the outside of the housing into the inflow space in accordance with the connection of the downstream duct to the connection port.

11. The inflow space comprises a lower space into which air flowing upward from the first dust storage section flows, and an upper space above the lower space having a larger flow path cross-sectional area than the lower space. The upper space is provided so as to be able to communicate with the flow path of the downstream duct connected to the connection port. The vacuum cleaner has a restricting unit attached to the housing that is rotatable from a closed rotation position that closes the lower space to an open rotation position that is angularly displaced by a predetermined angle to restrict air from flowing upward from the first dust collection section, The restricting portion has a hole or notch formed therein that overlaps with the lower space when the restricting portion is in the open rotation position. The cleaning tool set according to claim 1, wherein the hole or notch is located outside the lower space when the regulating portion is in the closed rotation position.

12. The vacuum cleaner has an operating piece that is operated to rotate the regulating part, The cleaning tool set according to claim 11, wherein the operating piece is provided on the restricting portion so as to be exposed to the outside of the housing.

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