A brushroll for a surface cleaning apparatus
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- TECHTRONIC CORDLESS GP
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-15
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-06
Smart Images
Figure EP2026050983_06082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] A BRUSHROLL FOR A SURFACE CLEANING APPARATUS TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a brushroll for a surface cleaning apparatus, and to a surface cleaning apparatus.
[0003] BACKGROUND
[0004] Conventional surface cleaning apparatuses (often also referred to as vacuum cleaners) may typically have an agitator configured to agitate dust and / or dirt present on a surface to aid its removal via suction. One type of agitator is a brushroll, which are generally configured to remove dirt or dust from a first floor surface such as a carpeted surface, a brushroll configured for a carpeted surface may not be suitable for a second type of floor surface such as a hard-wood floor. As such, the user may change the brushroll for a second brushroll configured for use with a hard-wood floor. When the user is cleaning a building with multiple carpeted and non-carpeted areas, switching the brushroll multiple times can be wearisome. Therefore, there is a need for a brushroll that can adapt to different cleaning situation and provide more flexibility and convenience for the user. It is at least one aim of the present teachings to provide an improved brushroll.
[0005] The present teachings seek to provide an improved surface cleaning apparatus.
[0006] SUMMARY
[0007] The present teachings provide a brushroll and a surface cleaning apparatus according to the appended claims.
[0008] According to an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided brushroll for a surface cleaning apparatus, the brushroll comprising: a body comprising a shaft defining a rotational axis of the brushroll; at least one first surface cleaning member provided on the body; at least one second surface cleaning member provided on the body and comprising a distal end thereof, wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member is moveable between a first position in which the distal end is arranged radially inward relative to an outer surface of the at least one first surface cleaning member, and a second position in which the distal end is arranged at or radially outward of the outer surface of the at least one first surface cleaning member.
[0009] The brushroll is able to be used in two or more modes to enable cleaning of multiple types of surfaces or alternatively particularly stubborn stains on a single surface type. By deploying the second surface cleaning member the user can tailor the brushroll to thecleaning operation they wish to or are currently undertaking. Advantageously, this may be done without the need to remove / exchange the brushroll.
[0010] Optionally, wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member moves between the first and second positions based on a direction of rotation of the brushroll.
[0011] By causing deployment of the second surface cleaning member in response to the direction of rotation of the brushroll the brushroll can be operated in a first mode by rotating it in a first direction and a second mode by rotating it in a second direction different to the first direction.
[0012] Optionally, wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member is pivotally mounted on the body and the second surface cleaning member is configured to pivot between the first and second positions based on a direction of rotation of the brushroll.
[0013] By pivotally mounting the seconds surface cleaning member on the body the second surface cleaning member may pivot between the first and second positions based upon the direction of rotation of the brushroll. The second surface cleaning member may therefore be kept in the first or second position by the forces acting upon it whilst the brushroll rotates.
[0014] Optionally, wherein the body comprises a deployment surface and the at least one second surface cleaning member has a cleaning element, and when the second surface cleaning member is in the second position a portion of the cleaning element abuts the deployment surface.
[0015] By having a portion of the cleaning element abutting the deployment surface it may help to orientate the distal end of the second surface cleaning member at an appropriate angle or orientation for cleaning of a surface.
[0016] The cleaning element may be a portion of the second surface cleaning member. Optionally, the cleaning element may be a portion of the second surface cleaning member between a proximal end and the distal end of the second surface cleaning member. Optionally, the cleaning element may be a portion of the second surface cleaning member that between a proximal end and the distal end of the second surface cleaning member having a length equal or substantially equal to a length of the deployment surface. Optionally, the cleaning element may be a portion of the second surface cleaning member that between a proximal end and the distal end of the second surface cleaning member having a length equal to a length of the deployment surface or 1 to 1.2 times the length of the length of the deployment surface.
[0017] Optionally, the cleaning element comprises the distal end of the second surface cleaning member.Optionally, wherein the cleaning element abuts the deployment surface to orientate the distal end of the at least one surface cleaning member at a deployment angle.
[0018] Optionally, wherein the deployment angle is 0 to 180 degrees measured normal to a surface of the body or at least one first surface cleaning member.
[0019] Optionally, wherein the deployment angle is 10 to 170 degrees or 20 to 160 degrees or 30 to 150 degrees or 40 to 130 degrees or 45 to 125 degrees or 60 to 120 degrees or 80 to 100 degrees or 90 degrees or 10 to 90 degrees or 10 to 80 degrees or 20 to 90 degrees or any subset, range, or individual value described previously.
[0020] Optionally, wherein the cleaning element is a plurality of bristles, and the contact between the cleaning element and the deployment surface forces the bristles of the plurality of bristles to splay.
[0021] The splaying of the bristles may provide a greater swept area by the second surface cleaning member than where the bristles not splayed. Moreover, by having a splayed configuration and a non-splayed configuration the plurality of bristles will be more compact and easier to store in the first position.
[0022] Optionally, wherein the cleaning element abutting the deployment surface in the second position prevents over deployment of the second surface cleaning member.
[0023] By preventing the over deployment of the at least one second surface cleaning member it may prevent the second surface cleaning member bending back on itself which may reduce the efficacy of the cleaning operation it is used with.
[0024] Optionally, wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member moves between the first and second positions based on a rotational speed of the brushroll.
[0025] By having the second surface cleaning member moveable in dependence upon a rotational speed the movement between the first and second positions may only occur once a threshold or target speed has been reached (going from a higher speed to a lower speed or conversely from a lower speed to a higher one). As such, the second surface cleaning member may be deployed, where for example, there is a particularly stubborn stain on a surface necessitating an increase in speed to remove it.
[0026] Optionally, the at least one surface cleaning member moves between the first and second positions based on one or both of: the rotational speed of the brushroll and a direction of rotation of the brushroll.
[0027] Optionally, wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member is slidably located on a track connected to the body and configured to rotate therewith, and the second surface cleaning member is moveable between the first and second positions on the track.By slidably locating the second surface cleaning member on a track it may move between the first and second positions relatively quickly.
[0028] Optionally, wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member is connected to the body by a biasing member having a threshold force, and wherein when a centripetal force acting on the moveable member is equal to or above the threshold force the moveable member moves between the first and second configuration.
[0029] By connecting the second surface cleaning member to a biasing member the biasing member may prevent deployment of the moveable member until a threshold force is reached (or a target force) this reduces the likelihood of unintentional deployment of the second surface cleaning element during use when the user does not wish for it to be deployed.
[0030] Further, by providing a biasing member the second surface cleaning member may be returned to its original position after the user no longer wishes to use it. The movement from the second position to the first position may therefore be quicker than where no biasing member is provided.
[0031] Optionally, wherein the biasing member is any one of: a spring, a leaf spring, a coiled spring, a sheet spring, a Belleville spring, and a resiliently deformable member.
[0032] Provision of a biasing member being a spring, a leaf spring, coiled spring, sheet spring, a Belleville spring, or a resiliently deformable member, may provide a compact arrangement within the brushroll body.
[0033] Optionally, wherein the brushroll further comprises at least one electromagnetic coil connected to the body and the second surface cleaning member comprises a permanent magnetic material, and wherein the electromagnetic coil has a powered state configured to attract or repel the permanent magnetic material to move the at least one second surface cleaning member between the first and second position.
[0034] By attracting or repelling the second surface cleaning member to move it between the first and second position may be achieved when the brushroll is at rest (before rotating) or when it is moving (during rotation) and may be moved between the first and second positions independent of both the speed of rotation and / or direction of rotation.
[0035] The arrangement may therefore enable the second surface cleaning member to move between the first and second positions in a number of additional scenarios to provide greater flexibility of use for the operator.
[0036] Optionally, further comprising a locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a locking member moveable between a locked position whereby movement ofthe at least one second surface cleaning member is prevented and an unlocked position whereby movement of the at least one surface cleaning member is permitted.
[0037] The locking mechanism may enable the user to maintain the second surface cleaning member in a position in dependence upon the requirements of the user.
[0038] Optionally, whereby the locking member is configured to lock the at least one second surface cleaning member in the second position.
[0039] By locking the second surface cleaning member in the second position the second surface cleaning member may be used in different ways than the way in which it is caused to be deployed. For example, where the second surface cleaning member is deployed at above a threshold speed locking the second surface cleaning member in the second position above the threshold speed may enable the user to use the second surface cleaning member below the threshold speed in preference of the first surface cleaning member. Optionally, whereby the locking member is configured to lock the at least one second surface cleaning member in the first position.
[0040] By locking the second surface cleaning member in the first position the second surface cleaning member may be used in different ways than the way in which it is caused to be deployed. For example, where the second surface cleaning member is deployed at above a threshold speed locking the second surface cleaning member in the first position below the threshold speed may enable the user to use the first surface cleaning member above the threshold speed in preference of the second surface cleaning member.
[0041] Optionally, wherein the at least one first surface cleaning member comprises any one or more of: a first plurality of bristles having a first stiffness, a second plurality of bristles having a second stiffness different to the first stiffness, a blade, a wiper, a microfibre material.
[0042] Optionally, wherein the at least one second surface leaning member comprises any one or more of: a first plurality of bristles having a first stiffness, a second plurality of bristles having a second stiffness different to the first stiffness, a blade, a wiper, a microfibre material.
[0043] Optionally, wherein the distal end of the second surface cleaning member is partially covered or covered or received by a portion of the body and / or first surface cleaning member in the first position.
[0044] By partially covering, covering or receiving the second surface cleaning member by the body or first surface cleaning member the second surface cleaning member and its distal end may be prevented from coming into contact with a surface being cleaned by the firstsurface cleaning member. This may increase the useable life of the second surface cleaning member in practice as it may only interact with the surface when required by the user. Optionally, wherein body defines an internal cavity, and the second surface cleaning member is at least partially located within the internal cavity in the first position.
[0045] Optionally, the body comprises an aperture and the distal end of the second surface cleaning member extends through the aperture in the second position.
[0046] By locating the second surface cleaning member at least partially within the internal cavity in the first position the second surface cleaning member may be prevented from coming into contact with a surface being cleaned by the first surface cleaning member. This may increase the useable life of the second surface cleaning member in practice as it may only interact with the surface when required by the user.
[0047] Optionally the second surface cleaning member may be located within the internal cavity in the first position.
[0048] By having the distal end of the second surface cleaning member extend through an aperture of the body only the distal end of the second surface cleaning member and optionally a section below (the cleaning element) may come into contact with the surface to be cleaned in the second position.
[0049] According to a further aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a surface cleaning apparatus comprising: an upright body comprising a handle; a base connected to the upright body, said base configured for movement across a surface to be cleaned; a suction source; a suction nozzle provided on the base and defining a suction nozzle inlet in fluid communication with the suction source; and a brushroll according to any previously described aspect provided on the base.
[0050] The surface cleaning apparatus has the advantages of the brushroll which it comprises. Moreover, the surface cleaning apparatus may be utilised in a number of two or more different surface cleaning scenarios where prior surface cleaning apparatus may have been best suited to one surface cleaning scenario.
[0051] Optionally, wherein the brushroll is removably provided on the base.
[0052] By removably providing the brushroll on the base it may be removed for cleaning, for example the user may wish to remove hair or other threads which have become wrapped around the brushroll during normal use.
[0053] Optionally, comprising a control system configured to receive an operational mode signal indicative an operational mode of the surface cleaning apparatus, and to output a signal to instruct the at least one second surface cleaning member to move from the first position to the second position based on the determined operational mode.By providing a control system the brushroll can be instructed to move from the first position to the second position without the need for manual intervention by the user by interacting or replacing the brushroll.
[0054] Optionally, wherein the surface cleaning apparatus further comprises a sensor configured to detect a type of floor surface on which the surface cleaning apparatus is supported and generate a floor surface signal, the operational mode signal comprises the floor surface signal, and the determination of the operational mode is made in dependence upon the detected floor surface.
[0055] By providing such a sensor arrangement the surface cleaning apparatus may automatically cause the brushroll to move from the first to second position without the need for instruction from the user themselves. Such an arrangement provides ease of use advantages for the operator of the surface cleaning apparatus.
[0056] Optionally, wherein the surface cleaning apparatus further comprises a moisture sensor configured to detect the presence of a fluid on a floor surface on which the surface cleaning apparatus is supported and generate a moisture detected signal, the operational mode signal comprises the moisture detected signal, and the determination of the operational mode is made in dependence upon the presence of fluid on the floor surface.
[0057] By providing such a sensor arrangement the surface cleaning apparatus may automatically cause the brushroll to move from the first to second position without the need for instruction from the user themselves. Such an arrangement provides ease of use advantages for the operator of the surface cleaning apparatus.
[0058] Optionally, wherein the surface cleaning apparatus further comprises a mount configured to connect to a wet bin and a sensor or switch connected to the control system configured to generate a wet bin present signal when the wet bin is connected to the mount, the operational mode signal comprises the wet bin present signal, and the determination of the operational mode is made in dependence upon whether the wet bin is mounted on the mount.
[0059] By providing such an arrangement the surface cleaning apparatus may automatically cause the brushroll to move from the first to second position without the need for instruction from the user themselves. Such an arrangement provides ease of use advantages for the operator of the surface cleaning apparatus.
[0060] Optionally, wherein the surface cleaning apparatus has a user operated input device and wherein the user operated input device is configured to generate a user requested operational mode signal indicative of a user requested operational mode, the operational mode signal comprises the user requested operational mode signal, and the determinationof the operational mode is made in dependence the user requested operational mode signal.
[0061] The user operated input device provides the ability for the user to request the brushroll to move between the first and second positions. This arrangement may afford the user greater flexibility and control of the surface cleaning apparatus during a surface cleaning operation.
[0062] Optionally, the user operated input devices comprises any one of: a button, a switch, a touch screen.
[0063] According to an additional aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a kit of parts comprising the surface cleaning apparatus according to any previously described aspect.
[0064] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0065] Embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0066] Figure 1 shows a surface cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment;
[0067] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a main body of the surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 1;
[0068] Figure 3 shows a schematic of a cross-sectional view of a base or floorhead of the surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 1;
[0069] Figures 4 to 6 shows schematic cross-sectional views of a brushroll according to an embodiment;
[0070] Figures 7 and 8 shows schematic cross-sectional views of a brushroll according to an embodiment;
[0071] Figures 9 and 10 show schematic cross-sectional views of a brushroll according to an embodiment; and
[0072] Figures 11 and 12 show schematic cross-sectional views of a brushroll according to an embodiment.
[0073] DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0074] Referring firstly to Figures 1 and 2, a surface cleaning apparatus is shown and is indicated generally at 10. The apparatus 10 includes an upright body 12. The upright body 12 may also be referred to as a main body or a housing. The apparatus 10 includes a base 14 connected to the upright body, said base 14 configured for movement across a surface to be cleaned. The base 14 may also be referred to as a floorhead. The base 14 includes a brushroll 100, 200, 300, 400 provided thereon.In the illustrated example, the apparatus 10 includes an elongate pole 16 fluidly connecting the base 14 to the upright body 12. In this embodiment, the surface cleaning apparatus 10 is illustrated in Figure 1 as a pole or stick vacuum cleaner. However, it will be understood that the brushrolls described herein may be utilised with any type of vacuum cleaning device or surface cleaning apparatus. For example, the surface cleaning apparatus may be one of: a hand held surface cleaning device, an upright surface cleaning device, a stick vacuum cleaner (as in Figure 1), a wet-vacuum cleaner, a robotic vacuum cleaner, a cordless vacuum cleaner, a canister vacuum cleaner, a carpet cleaner, a central vacuum cleaner, a backpack vacuum cleaner or a cylinder vacuum cleaner. The surface cleaning apparatus may be a bagged surface cleaning apparatus or a turbine surface cleaning apparatus. In such embodiments, the base 14 may connect directly to the housing 12 without the need for the intermediate elongate pole 16.
[0075] The housing 12, in this example, is operable as a handheld surface cleaning apparatus in a second configuration shown in Figures 2, commonly known as a hand vacuum, a hand carriable vacuum, or handheld cleaning apparatus, when the pole 16 is not connected to the hosing 12. In this second configuration, the housing 12 can be used with or without the base 14 connected thereto.
[0076] The housing 12 supports a suction source 18. The suction source 18 includes a motor which rotates a fan to generate a suction airflow. The housing 12 includes a housing inlet 22 that is releasably connectable to the pole 16 for fluidly connecting a dirty air inlet (not shown) of the base 14 with the suction source 18.
[0077] The housing 12 supports a dirt separation device 20. The dirt separation device 20 includes a separator 24 for separating dirt from dirt-laden air and a dirt collection chamber 26 for receiving the separated dirt. In some embodiments, the separator 24 may be a cyclonic separator, but it will be appreciated that any suitable separator may be used in alternative embodiments. The dirt collection chamber 26 is connected to, and supported by, the housing 12.
[0078] In some embodiments, the dirt collection chamber 26 may be substantially cylindrical. In alternative embodiments, it will be appreciated that any suitable shape of dirt collection chamber 26 may be used. The dirt collection chamber 26 defines an elongate axis X. The elongate axis X may, in some embodiments, be parallel to the elongate axis of the pole or wand 16. The dirt collection chamber 26 may be removable (i.e. disconnected or detached) from the housing 12, for example to facilitate emptying of the dirt collection chamber 26. In some embodiments, the dirt collection chamber 26 may be supported by the housing 12 to enable movement of the dirt collection chamber 26 relative to the housing 12. The dirt collection chamber 26 may be moveable relative to the housing 12. Put another way,the dirt collection chamber 26 may be removable from the housing 12. The dirt collection chamber 26 may be moveable relative to the housing 12 between a first position in which the dirt collection chamber 26 is connected to and supported by the housing 12 and a second position in which the dirt collection chamber is detached from the housing 12. In some embodiments, the dirt collection chamber 26 is moveable, e.g. slidable, relative to the housing 12 along an axis that is substantially parallel to the axis X.
[0079] The housing 12 may support the dirt collection chamber 26 whilst it is moving from the first position to the second position. The first position refers to a state in which the dirt collection chamber 26 is retained on the housing 12 whether that be a locked state in which the device 20 is inhibited from movement relative to the housing 16, where the dirt collection chamber 26 is connected to the housing 12 and permitted to move relative to the housing 12. The second position refers to a state where the dirt collection chamber 26 is no longer supported by the housing 12 and has been removed or detached from the housing 12. This configuration may help to facilitate emptying of the dirt collection chamber, but this slidable and / or removable configuration of the dirt collection chamber 26 may be omitted in alternative embodiments.
[0080] The dirt collection chamber 26 may be removed or released from the housing 12. The dirt collection chamber 26 may include an end wall or lid 30 provided at an of the dirt collection camber that is moveable between a closed position in which collection chamber 26 is closed and an open position in which the collection chamber 26 is open, for example to empty the dirt collection chamber 26. The end wall or lid 30 may be pivotally movable between its closed and open states. The dirt collection chamber 26 may include a locking device 32, e.g. in the form of a user operable button or latch, for retaining the end wall or lid 30 in its closed state. A user may operate the locking device 32, e.g. by pressing the user operable button, to release the end wall or lid 32 and allow it to move to its open state. The dirt collection chamber 26 may be a dry dirt collection chamber or it may be a wet dirt collection chamber. The housing 12 may additionally comprise a bin connection sensor 508 or switch 508. The bin connection sensor 508 or switch 508 may be configured to detect the type of dirt collection chamber 26 connected to the surface cleaning apparatus 10. The connection of the dry dirt collection chamber for example may cause a first output from the sensor 508 or switch 508 to be generated and where the wet dirt collection chamber is connected a second output from the sensor 508 or switch 508 to be generated. The housing 12 may include a user graspable handle 28. The suction source 18 may be positioned forward of the user graspable handle 28. Put another way, the suction source 18 may be positioned forwardly of the handle 28. In some embodiments, there may be a space for receiving a user's hand which extends between the user graspable handle 28 and the suction source 18. The user graspable handle 28 may be arranged on an opposingside of the suction source 18 to the dirt separation device 20. Put another way, the suction source 18 may be arranged between the user graspable handle 28 and the dirt collection chamber 26 along an axis parallel to the elongate axis X of the dirt collection chamber 26. In some embodiments, the handle 28 may be arranged at a rear of the surface cleaning apparatus 10.
[0081] The surface cleaning apparatus 10 includes a filter assembly 34. The filter assembly 34 is provided to clean the relatively clean air outputted by the dirt separation device 20. The filter assembly 34 is often called a pre-motor filter, and is arranged to clean air upstream of the suction source 18 prior to the air reaching the suction source 18.
[0082] The pole 16, in conjunction with the main body 12 and base 14, is able to be used to clean (by entraining dust, dirt or other detritus in an airflow) around an obstacle. The pole 16 may be selectively flexible or rigid and as a result may be used in both a 'straight' configuration and a 'flexible' or 'bent' configuration. A selectively flexible pole 16 therefore allows the user of a surface cleaning device 10 to which the pole 16 is connected to clean areas which they may not otherwise be able to easily access. Pole 16 and selectively flexible pole 16 will be used interchangeably for brevity throughout the application. The pole 16 shown in Figure 1 is a rigid pole. The pole 16 comprises a tube 60. There is a fluid flow path that extends through the tube 60. The fluid flow path provides a pathway for air and entrained dirt to travel along. In use, the fluid flow path extends between an inlet, for example the inlet of the base 14, and the suction source 18.
[0083] The pole 16 may form part of a surface cleaning apparatus wand 8 (shown in Figures 1 connected to the main body 12). Said wand 8 may comprise additional components, such as means to connect the pole 16 to a surface cleaning apparatus 10 and / or the base or floorhead 14. The wand 8 may be removably connectable to the surface cleaning apparatus 10 and / or the base 14, alternatively the wand 8 may be directly connected to the surface cleaning apparatus 10 and / or the base 14.
[0084] The base 14 has a brushroll 100. The brushroll 100 is shown by dashed lines. The base 14 may be removably attached to the wand 8. Alternatively, the base 14 may not be removably attached to the wand 8 but instead fixed to the wand 8. Alternatively, the base 14 may be removably connected directly to the main body 12 or may be fixed to the main body 12.
[0085] The surface cleaning apparatus 10 includes a control system 500. The control system 500 is configured to receive various signals indicative of operational modes of the surface cleaning apparatus 10 as will be described in more detail below. The control system 500 is configured to output various signals to instruct the surface cleaning device 10 and / or the brushroll 100, 200, 300, 400 to move between different operational modes.Referring now to Figure 3, the surface cleaning apparatus 10 may have a sensor 504 shown in the base 14 in Figure 4. The sensor 504 may be configured to detect the type of surface S the surface cleaning apparatus 10 is being used on. The sensor 504 may be an optical sensor or a light reflectance sensor configured to transmit light and detect the quantity of light reflected back at the sensor. Smooth surfaces such as ceramic floor tiles or wood panelling may reflect more light back to the sensor 504 than rougher surfaces such as a carpet or rug. The sensor 504 is configured to generate a floor surface signal indicating the type of surface S the surface cleaning device is located on.
[0086] The surface cleaning apparatus 10 may have a moisture sensor 505 shown in the base 14 in Figure 4. The moisture sensor 504 may be configured to detect moisture on surface S the surface cleaning apparatus 10 is being used on. The moisture sensor is configured to generate a moisture detected signal.
[0087] The surface cleaning apparatus 10 may additionally comprise a useroperated input device 502 (shown in Figure 1). The user operated input device 502 is configured to generate a user requested operational mode signal indicative of a user requested operational mode as will be described below. The user operated input device 502 may be any one of a button, a switch and a touch screen. Whilst the user operated input device 502 is depicted as on the main body 12 the user operated input device 502 may be disposed at any location on the surface cleaning apparatus 10 such as the handle 18 or on an outer surface of the base 14.
[0088] Whilst this disclosure may have described that the surface cleaning apparatus 10 is being supported on a surface S or being used on a surface S or various sensors are configured to detect an aspect of a surface the surface cleaning apparatus 10 is supported on this is not intended to be limiting to only a ground surface but is intended to cover situations whereby the base 14 is cleaning any surface to which it is presently engaged. For example, where the base 14 or surface cleaning apparatus 10 is cleaning a staircase, the intention is that the present disclosure may be utilised with both the stair tread but also the stair riser. Similarly, the disclosure may be utilised with rugs which are hung for cleaning for example.
[0089] The brushroll 100, 200, 300, 400 will now be described in more detail with the aid of Figures 4 to 12.
[0090] Figure 4 shows a brushroll 100 in cross-section. The brushroll 100 is configured to be connected to the base 14. The brushroll 100 has a shaft 102 that defines a rotational axis of the brushroll. In use the brushroll 100 rotates around the axis. The shaft 102 may be configured to connect at one end to a bushing or plane bearing or roller bearing or ball bearing such that the shaft 102 may rotate within the base 14. At a second end of theshaft 102 the shaft may comprise a means to connect to a drive means such as a vacuum impeller or brushroll motor (not shown). The drive means may provide a force to cause the brushroll 100 to rotate around the rotational axis. Where a vacuum impeller is present the vacuum impeller may be directly coupled to the rotational shaft or indirectly coupled by means of a belt or by one or more gears or a gear train. Where a brushroll motor is utilised the brushroll motor may be connected to the shaft by means of a belt or by one or more gears or a gear train.
[0091] The brushroll 100 has a first surface cleaning member 110 and a second surface cleaning member 120.
[0092] The first surface cleaning member 110 is disposed on the shaft 102 and is configured to rotate therewith. The surface cleaning member 110 may for example be a microfibre cloth or plurality of brushes or blade or wiper or any other surface cleaning member that is configured to remove dust or dirt from a surface.
[0093] The first surface cleaning member 110 is shown in Figure 4 affixed to a radially outer portion of the body 104. The body 104 comprises the shaft 102 therein. The body 104 is cylindrical or substantially cylindrical. The first surface cleaning member 110 may be disposed across a portion of the cylindrical surface. The first surface cleaning member 110 is fixedly disposed upon the cylindrical surface.
[0094] The radially outer face of the first surface cleaning member 110 defines an outer surface 112 of the first surface cleaning member 110. The outer surface 112 of the first surface cleaning member 110 in use will contact the surface on to which the brushroll 100 is engaged. As will be apparent to the skilled person, a portion of the outer surface 112 may move radially inward toward the axis of rotation when a pressure is applied to it as the material of which the second surface cleaning member 110 is made may be resiliently deformable.
[0095] The second surface cleaning member 120 is provided on the shaft 102 as shown in Figure 4. The second surface cleaning member 120 has a proximal end 122 and a distal end 124. The proximal end 122 is disposed radially closer to the shaft 102 than the distal end 124 as is shown in Figure 4.
[0096] The second surface cleaning member 120 may be a microfibre cloth or plurality of brushes or blade or wiper or any other surface cleaning member that is configured to remove dust or dirt from a surface. The second surface cleaning member 120 is moveably disposed on the brushroll 110 and is able to move between a first position and a second position. The first position is shown in Figure 4 and the second position is shown in Figure 5. In the first position the distal end 124 is radially inward relative of the outer surface 112 of the first surface cleaning member 110 as is shown in Figure 4. In the second position, shown inFigure 5, the distal end 124 is radially outward relative to the outer surface 112 of the first surface cleaning member 110. Alternatively, the distal end 124 may be arranged at the same radial distance from the axis of rotation as the outer surface 112 of the first cleaning member 110 (this is not shown in the depicted examples).
[0097] As will be apparent to the skilled reader, in the first position the distal end 124 is not able to engage a surface for cleaning and therefore the second surface cleaning member 120 is not configured to clean a surface in this position. In the second position the distal end 124 is able to engage a surface for cleaning and therefore the second surface cleaning member 120 is configured to clean a surface in this position.
[0098] The body 104 of the brushroll 100 may have one or more or a plurality of apertures 106 which the second surface cleaning member 120 is configured to move within or through when transitioning between the first and second positions. In the first position the second surface cleaning member 120 may be radially inward of the aperture 106 or partially disposed within the aperture 106 as shown in Figure 4. In the second position the surface cleaning member 120 extends partially through the aperture 106 as is shown in Figure 5. The aperture 106 extends through the body 104 of the brushroll to a chamber 108 located within the brushroll 100. The aperture 106 may be complementary to second surface cleaning member 120. By providing a complementary aperture 106 there may be a reduction of dirt or fluid that may enter into the chamber 108 during use. The aperture 106 may be circular through hole, a slot, channel, an opening or slit.
[0099] The means for moving the second surface cleaning member(s) 120 between the first and second position will now be described in more detail with the aid of Figure 4 and 5. Figures 4 and 5 show one means for moving the second surface cleaning member 120, alternative means will be described in more detail below.
[0100] In the example depicted in Figure 4 the second surface cleaning member(s) 120 are connected to the shaft 102 by a biasing member 130 and optionally a moveable member 132.
[0101] The second surface cleaning member 120 may be directly connected to the moveable member or may be continuous with the moveable cleaning member 132. For example, where the second surface cleaning member 120 is a plurality of bristles an end and / or portion of each of the bristles may be encapsulated in the moveable member. Where the surface cleaning member 120 is a wiper or blade the moveable member 132 may form a portion of the body of the wiper or the wiper may be disposed upon the moveable memberIn alternative configurations, the second surface cleaning member 120 may be directly coupled to the biasing member 130 and there may not be an intermediate moveable member 132 disposed therebetween.
[0102] The biasing member 130 may be configured to bias the second surface cleaning member 120 to the first position as shown in Figure 4. In other words the biasing member 130 biases the second surface cleaning member 120 in a retracted or undeployed position. The biasing force may act radially towards the shaft 102.
[0103] During use the brushroll 100 rotates, the speed of rotation of the brushroll 100 is governed by the drive means for example the brushroll 100 may rotate at a first speed driven by the drive means (a first operational mode) and rotate at a second speed (a second operational mode). As the speed of rotation increases from the first speed to the second speed the centripetal force experienced by the second surface cleaning member 120 increases causing the second rotational surface cleaning member 120 to move radial outwards towards the second position (shown in Figure 5) overcoming the biasing force. Once the speed of rotation is at or exceeds the second speed the second surface cleaning member 120 is fully deployed.
[0104] The biasing member 130 may be a spring, such as a leaf spring, a coiled spring, a sheet spring or a Belleville spring. Alternatively, the biasing member 130 may be a resiliently deformable member.
[0105] One advantage of such an arrangement which is deployable depending upon speed of rotation is that the second surface cleaning member 120 may be configured for higher-intensity cleaning operations such as cleaning surfaces with high dirt concentration. Where the second surface cleaning member 120 is a plurality of bristles with a different stiffness to the first surface cleaning member 110 this can be particularly advantageous as stubborn stains or patches of dirt may be agitated to a greater extent than a lower stiffness first surface cleaning member 110.
[0106] The brushroll 100 may optionally comprise a locking mechanism 150 as shown in Figures 4 and 5. The locking mechanism 150 is configured to lock the second surface cleaning member 120 to prevent it from moving between the first position and second position or to lock the second surface cleaning member 120 into a first position or to lock the second surface cleaning member 120 into the second position.
[0107] A depicted example of the locking mechanism 150 is shown Figures 4 and 5. In Figure 4 the locking mechanism 150 is in a locked position and prevents the movement of the second surface cleaning member 120. In Figure 5 the locking mechanism is in an unlocked position that enables the movement of the second surface cleaning members 120.The locking mechanism 150 may comprise a shaft 152 and an arm 154 rotatably coupled to the shaft 152 at a first end thereof.
[0108] The shaft 152 may be connected to a lock control mechanism to rotate the shaft 152 and therefore the lock mechanism 150 between the locked and unlocked positions. The lock control mechanism is not shown in the figures but may take the form of a gear or linkage coupled to the shaft 152. When the gear or linkage is actuated the shaft 152 rotates causing the arm 154 to move therewith.
[0109] The arm 154 is shown in Figure 4. The arm 154 comprises a first arm portion and a second arm portion joined together at a bent portion 155, the join is at angle such that the arm 154 may be dog-legged or bent. Alternatively, the arm 154 may be curved or arcuate in shape.
[0110] The arm 154 has an arm end 156 at a second end of the arm 154. The arm end 156 operatively abuts the moveable member or a portion of the second surface cleaning member 120 when the locking mechanism 150 is in the locked position as shown in Figure 4. When the arm end 156 abuts the moveable member or second surface cleaning member 120 this prevents the second surface cleaning member 120 from moving from the first position to the second position.
[0111] When the shaft 152 rotates anti-clockwise the arm 154 and therefore the arm end 156 rotate therewith. This disengages the arm end 156 from the moveable member and / or the second surface cleaning member 120 to enable the second surface cleaning member 120 to move to the second position as is shown in Figure 5.
[0112] Figure 5 shows the locking mechanism 150 in the unlocked position. In this position both of the depicted second cleaning members 120 are able to move between the first and second position.
[0113] Upon movement of the second surface cleaning member 120 back to the first position the locking mechanism 150 can be moved back to the locked position shown in Figure 4 by rotating the shaft 152 clockwise.
[0114] Instead, the second surface cleaning members 120 may be locked into the second position as shown in Figure 6. This may be achieved by rotating the shaft 152 further anti-clockwise such that the arm 154 and the bent portion 155 or a portion of the arm 154 abuts the moveable member or a portion of the second surface cleaning member 120. Such an arrangement is shown in Figure 6. In this position the locking mechanism 120 locks the second surface cleaning member 120 into the second position. This arrangement may be advantageous where the use of the second surface cleaning members 120 are required by the user but at different rotational speeds whereby deployment may not normally occuras the rotational speed may not provide a centripetal force sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the biasing member 130.
[0115] To unlock the second surface cleaning members 120 from the second position the shaft 152 may be rotated clockwise to enable movement of the moveable member and / or second surface cleaning member 120.
[0116] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art the description of the locking mechanism 150 and its deployment in a clockwise / anticlockwise fashion is not intended to be limiting. The locking mechanism 150 may work similarly where the arm end 156 faces the opposite second surface cleaning member 120.
[0117] The locking mechanism 150 optionally act as a deployment mechanism for the second surface cleaning member 120. Where the locking mechanism 150 acts as a deployment mechanism the biasing member 130 may or may not be provided.
[0118] The locking mechanism 150 may be used to move the moveable member or second surface cleaning members 120 by forcing engagement of the arm 154 or bent portion 155 into the moveable member or second surface cleaning member 120 forcing the second surface cleaning member 120 to move by continued rotation of the shaft 152.
[0119] An alternative deployment mechanism for the second surface cleaning member 120 (not shown) may be to provide a linkage on the shaft 152 that is connected directly to either the moveable member or the second surface cleaning member 120. By rotating the shaft 152 the linkage moves causing the second surface cleaning member 120 to move between the first and second positions depending upon the direction of rotation. Such a deployment mechanism may take the form of a rack and pinion type arrangement whereby the shaft 152 has the pinion gear disposed thereon, and the rack forms a part of the linkage that is connected to the moveable member and / or second surface cleaning member 120.
[0120] A different brushroll 200 will now be described with the aid of Figures 7 and 8, brushroll 200 is substantially similar to brushroll 100 and comprises a number of the same features as brushroll 100. As such, the same feature reference numbers will be used for common features.
[0121] Brushroll 200 has an alternative means for deploying second surface cleaning member 120 as will be described in more detail below. In the depicted brushroll 200 of Figure 7 the second surface cleaning member 120 is disposed on a moveable member 232. The moveable member 232 is moveably disposed on a mount 234 that has a track 236.
[0122] The second surface cleaning member 120 may be directly connected to the moveable member or may be continuous with the moveable cleaning member 232. For example, where the second surface cleaning member 120 is a plurality of bristles an end and / orportion of each of the bristles may be encapsulated in the moveable member 232. Where the surface cleaning member 120 is a wiper or blade the moveable member 232 may form a portion of the body of the wiper or the wiper may be disposed upon the moveable member 232.
[0123] The mount 234 may be directly coupled to the shaft 102 to move rotationally or connected to another portion of the brushroll 200 such as a sidewall (not shown) or the body 104. The connection is not shown in the schematic Figure 7.
[0124] The moveable member 232 is able to move or slide along the track 236 to move the second surface cleaning member 120 between the first and second position such that upon increasing the rotational speed of the brushroll 200 around the rotational axis causes the moveable member 232 to move radially outward along the track 236 and thus the distal end 124 of the second surface cleaning member 120 also to the second position. The second position is shown in Figure 8 whereby the second surface cleaning members 120 are deployed.
[0125] Alternatively, the moveable member 232 may be able to move or slide along the track 236 to move the second surface cleaning member 120 between the first and second position when the rotational direction of the brushroll 200 is changed. In a first rotational direction the moveable member 232 may be forced to move radially inward and therefore the second surface cleaning member 120 is moved to the first position. When rotating in second direction opposite to the first direction the moveable member 232 may be forced to move radially outward and therefore the second surface cleaning member 120 is forced to move to the second position.
[0126] Whilst not shown, the brushroll 200 may have a biasing member 130 connected to the moveable member 232 as described previously with respect to brushroll 100. The biasing member 130 being connected to the moveable member 232 to bias the moveable member 232 into the radially inner position on the track 236 and thus the first position of the second surface cleaning member 120.
[0127] Movement of the moveable member 232 on the track 236 where a biasing member 130 is present may optionally only be permitted once the centripetal force acting on the moveable member 232 and the second surface cleaning member 120 overcomes the biasing force. The brushroll 200 may have a locking mechanism 150 as previously described to lock the moveable member 232 in place in one or both of the first and second positions. The locking mechanism 150 may be of the type previously described. Alternatively, the locking mechanism may comprise a moveable pin or pushrod which when in the locked position prevents movement of the moveable member 232 and therefore lock second surface cleaning member 120 into the first and / or second position.A different brushroll 300 will now be described with the aid of Figures 9 and 10, brushroll 300 is substantially similar to brushroll 100 and 200 and comprises a number of the same features as brushrolls 100 and 200. As such, the same feature reference numbers will be used for common features.
[0128] Brushroll 300 has an alternative means for deploying second surface cleaning member 120 as will be described in more detail below. In the depicted brushroll 300 of Figure 8 the second surface cleaning member 120 is disposed on a moveable member 332. The moveable member 332 is rotatable or pivotable about a pivot axis permitting the movement of the moveable member 332 about said pivot axis.
[0129] The moveable member 332 may be mounted in one or two pivot seats or bushings or roller bearings or ball bearings to permit the rotation of the moveable member 332 about the pivot axis.
[0130] The second surface cleaning member 120 may be directly connected to the moveable member or may be continuous with the moveable cleaning member 332. For example, where the second surface cleaning member 120 is a plurality of bristles an end and / or portion of each of the bristles may be encapsulated in the moveable member 332. Where the surface cleaning member 120 is a wiper or blade the moveable member 332 may form a portion of the body of the wiper or the wiper may be disposed upon the moveable member 332.
[0131] The brushroll 300 body may optionally have a recessed portion 336, a lip, a covering or void into which the second surface cleaning member 120 may be received or covered or partially covered when the second surface cleaning member 120 is in the first position. The recessed portion 336 lip or covering or void may partially or completely cover the distal end 124 of the second surface cleaning member 120 when in the first position. Providing such an arrangement may reduce the likelihood of damage to the distal end 124 of the second surface cleaning member 120 when it is not in use.
[0132] In Figure 9 the second surface cleaning member 120 is in the recessed portion 336. In Figure 10 the second surface cleaning member 120 is not in the recessed portion 336 and as such the recessed portion 336 is visible.
[0133] The body 104 may have a deployment surface 334 as shown in Figure 10. The abutting surface 334 may be used to prevent over deployment of the second surface cleaning member 120 when the second surface cleaning member 120 is in the second position. A portion of the second surface cleaning member 120 may abut the deployment surface 334 in the second position. The portion of the second surface cleaning member 120 may be a portion of the second surface cleaning member 120 between the distal end 124 and the proximal end 122.Where the second surface cleaning member 120 is a plurality of bristles the deployment surface can aid deployment of the bristles by causing them to splay as the plurality of bristles abut the deployment surface 334. By causing the bristles to splay a greater effective cleaning area may be achieved in practice.
[0134] The second surface cleaning member 120 may optionally be connected to the shaft or body by a biasing member as previously described.
[0135] Figure 9 shows the brushroll 300 rotating around the shaft 102 in first rotational direction R1 (either anti-clockwise or clockwise around the shaft 102) and Figure 10 shows the brushroll 300 rotating in a second rotational direction R2 (the other of clockwise or anticlockwise). In Figure 9 the second surface cleaning member 120 and the distal end 124 are in the first position. In the first position where the brushroll 300 rotates in the first rotational direction R1 the second surface cleaning member 120 is stored and the distal end 124 does not extend radially outward of the outer surface 112 of the first surface cleaning member 110.
[0136] Whilst not shown in the schematic view of Figure 9 the brushroll 300 may optionally have a storage portion that the second surface cleaning member 120 may be positioned in when in the first position.
[0137] When the brushroll 300 rotates in the second direction R2 the moveable member 332 pivots around the pivot axis moving the second surface cleaning member 120 into the second position to enable its use for cleaning. Where the second surface cleaning member 120 comprises a plurality of bristles the bristles may fan out.
[0138] The brushroll 300 may have a locking mechanism (not shown) which locks the moveable member 332 into position to prevent the moveable member 332 pivoting. The locking mechanism may comprise a detent that engages a catch or aperture complementary to the detent on the moveable member 332. The moveable member 332 may have more than one catch or aperture permitting the moveable member 332 to be locked into the first position and / or the second position and / or an intermediate position between those two positions.
[0139] A different brushroll 400 will now be described with the aid of Figures 11 and 12, brushroll 400 is substantially similar to brushroll 100, 200 and 300 and comprises a number of the same features as brushrolls 100, 200 and 300. As such, the same feature reference numbers will be used for common features.
[0140] Brushroll 400 has an alternative means for deploying second surface cleaning member 120 as will be described in more detail below. In the depicted brushroll 400 of Figure 11 the second surface cleaning member 120 is disposed on a moveable member 432.The second surface cleaning member 120 may be directly connected to the moveable member or may be continuous with the moveable cleaning member 432. For example, where the second surface cleaning member 120 is a plurality of bristles an end and / or portion of each of the bristles may be encapsulated in the moveable member 432. Where the surface cleaning member 120 is a wiper or blade the moveable member 432 may form a portion of the body of the wiper or the wiper may be disposed upon the moveable member 432.
[0141] The moveable member 432 has a permanent magnet 434 disposed on or in the moveable member 432.
[0142] The shaft 402 of brushroll 400 has a coiled wire around it, that when an electrical current is passed therethrough for example from a battery or power source that the brushroll 400 is connected to, a magnetic field is produced. Depending upon the direction of the current passing through the coil the magnetic field may act to attract or repel the permanent magnet 434 causing the moveable member 432 and thus the second surface cleaning member 120 to move therewith.
[0143] Figure 11 shows the brushroll 400 and the surface cleaning member 120 in the first position. In this position there may be an attractive force between the permanent magnet 434 and any magnetic field provided by the shaft 402. Optionally or alternatively, the brushroll 400 may comprise a biasing member 130 as previously described which couples the moveable member 432 to the shaft 402 the biasing member 130 acting to move the moveable member 432 into the first position. In such a case, the interaction between the permanent magnet 434 and the magnetic field of the powered shaft 402 may therefore not be required.
[0144] In Figure 12 the coil on shaft 402 is powered and the magnetic field is repelling the permanent magnet 434 causing the moveable member 432 to move radially outwards and causing the second surface cleaning member 120 to move to the second position.
[0145] Optionally, the brushroll 400 may comprise the locking mechanism 150 of brushroll 100 or any other described locking mechanism.
[0146] Optionally or alternatively, the permanent magnet 434 and shaft 402 may together act as a locking mechanism when in a powered state to cause the second surface cleaning member 120 to be locked in place in either the first or second position.
[0147] Any of the described brushrolls 100, 200, 300, 400 may be utilised with any particular type of surface cleaning apparatus 10, such as those previously described.
[0148] Control of the brushroll 100, 200, 300, 400 and the operation of the surface cleaning apparatus 10 will now be described in more detail in conjunction with the control system500. The control system 500 may comprise one or more controllers, memory devices and or processors known in the art. The control system 500 has an input which may take the form of a BUS of a known type and an output which may take the form of a BUS of a known type. The input is configured to receive signals, and the output is configured to transmit or send signals to other systems or sub-systems or components of the surface cleaning apparatus 10.
[0149] The memory may be a permanent or non-transitory memory comprising instructions for the control system 500 to carry out various steps for changing the operational mode of the brushroll 100, 200, 300, 400.
[0150] The surface cleaning apparatus 10 can be operated in a number of different operational modes. The operational modes may be requested by the user or they may be determined by the control system 500.
[0151] There is a first operational mode where the second surface cleaning member 120 is configured to be in the first position or move from the second position to the first position. There is a second operational mode where the second surface cleaning member 120 is configured to move between the first position and the second position when the brushroll is in the second operational mode or when the brushroll transitions from the first operational mode to the second operational mode.
[0152] The first operational mode may be utilised where the user is cleaning a first surface and therefore the control system 500 may receive one or more of the following signals indicating that:
[0153] a user has requested a first operational mode via the user operated input device 502,
[0154] a wet dirt tank has been connected to the surface cleaning device and the sensor 508 or switch 508 indicates that this is the case,
[0155] the moisture sensor 505 indicates that the surface S is wet, and / or the sensor 504 indicates that the surface S is a tiled or wooden surface S. The second operational mode may be utilised where the user is cleaning a second surface different to the first surface, or where the user has requested that they would like to utilise the second operating mode on the first surface. Therefore, the control system 500 may receive one or more of the following signals indicating that:
[0156] a user has requested a second operational mode via the user operated input device 502,a dry dirt tank has been connected to the surface cleaning device and the sensor 508 or switch 508 indicates that this is the case,
[0157] the moisture sensor 505 indicates that the surface S is dry, and / or the sensor 504 indicates that the surface S is a carpeted surface S. Depending upon the input signal received the control system 500 will thereafter output a signal to instruct the second surface cleaning member 120 to move from the first position to the second position, or move from the second position to the first position, or to remain in the first position, or to remain in the second position as applicable.
[0158] Depending on the particular brushroll 100, 200, 300, 400 being utilised the output signal may instruct different components of the surface cleaning apparatus 10 to take action. For brushrolls 100, 200 the output signal may instruct the drive means to change speed and to therefore alter the speed of the brushroll 100, 200. Where the drive means is a brushroll motor the output signal may directly instruct the brushroll motor to change speed to cause the second surface cleaning member 120 to move between the first and second positions. Where the drive means is a vacuum impeller the output signal may instruct the suction source to increase the suction to increase the speed of rotation of the vacuum impeller and thus shaft 102 or decrease the suction to decrease the speed of rotation of the vacuum impeller and thus shaft 102 to cause the second surface cleaning member 120 to move between the first and second positions.
[0159] Where brushroll 300 is employed the drive means may be instructed to change direction of rotation. Where the drive means is a brushroll motor the output signal may directly instruct the brushroll motor to change direction of rotation. Alternatively, the drive means may comprise a clutch mechanism coupled to the shaft 102, the clutch mechanism may comprise one or more gears in a transmission arrangement that cause the direction of rotation to alter from a first rotational to a second rotational direction. In such an arrangement the output signal instructs the clutch mechanism to move from a first position to a second position causing the shaft 102 to rotate in a second direction.
[0160] Where the drive means is a vacuum impeller, the vacuum impeller may be indirectly connected to the shaft 102 via such a clutch mechanism to cause the shaft 102 to rotate in a second direction.
[0161] Alternatively, the drive means may comprise a fluid valve which directs the vacuum from a first direction to a second direction of the vacuum impeller to cause the vacuum impeller to change direction of rotation. The valve may be a rotational valve or gate valve or ball valve controllable by the control system 500.Where brushroll 400 is employed the output signal may instruct a current to be passed through the coil of the shaft 402 causing the permanent magnets 434 to move towards or away from the shaft 402 as applicable to cause the second surface cleaning member 120 to move between the first and second positions.
Claims
Claims1. A brushroll for a surface cleaning apparatus, the brushroll comprising:a body comprising a shaft defining a rotational axis of the brushroll; at least one first surface cleaning member provided on the body;at least one second surface cleaning member provided on the body and comprising a distal end thereof,wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member is moveable between a first position in which the distal end is arranged radially inward relative to an outer surface of the at least one first surface cleaning member, and a second position in which the distal end is arranged at or radially outward of the outer surface of the at least one first surface cleaning member.
2. The brushroll of claim 1, wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member moves between the first and second positions based on a direction of rotation of the brushroll.
3. The brushroll of claim 2, wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member is pivotally mounted on the body and the second surface cleaning member is configured to pivot between the first and second positions based on a direction of rotation of the brushroll.
4. The brushroll of claim 2 or 3, wherein the body comprises a deployment surface and the at least one second surface cleaning member has a cleaning element, and when the second surface cleaning member is in the second position a portion of the cleaning element abuts the deployment surface.
5. The brushroll of claim 4, wherein the cleaning element is a plurality of bristles, and the contact between the cleaning element and the deployment surface forces the bristles of the plurality of bristles to splay.
6. The brushroll of any preceding claim, wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member moves between the first and second positions based on a rotational speed of the brushroll.
7. The brushroll of any preceding claim, wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member is slidably located on a track connected to the body and configured to rotate therewith, and the second surface cleaning member is moveable between the first and second positions on the track.
8. The brushroll of any preceding claim, wherein the at least one second surface cleaning member is connected to the body by a biasing member having a threshold force,25and wherein when a centripetal force acting on the moveable member is equal to or above the threshold force the moveable member moves between the first and second configuration.
9. The brushroll of claim 8, wherein the biasing member is any one of: a spring, a leaf spring, a coiled spring, a sheet spring, a Belleville spring, and a resiliently deformable member.
10. The brushroll of any preceding claim, wherein the brushroll further comprises at least one electromagnetic coil connected to the body and the second surface cleaning member comprises a permanent magnetic material, and wherein the electromagnetic coil has a powered state configured to attract or repel the permanent magnetic material to move the at least one second surface cleaning member between the first and second position.
11. The brushroll of any preceding claim, comprising a locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a locking member moveable between a locked position whereby movement of the at least one second surface cleaning member is prevented and an unlocked position whereby movement of the at least one surface cleaning member is permitted.
12. The brushroll of claim 11, whereby the locking member is configured to lock the at least one second surface cleaning member in the second position.
13. The brushroll of claim 11 or 12, whereby the locking member is configured to lock the at least one second surface cleaning member in the first position.
14. The brushroll according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one first surface cleaning member comprises any one or more of: a first plurality of bristles having a first stiffness, a second plurality of bristles having a second stiffness different to the first stiffness, a blade, a wiper, a microfibre material.
15. The brushroll according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one second surface leaning member comprises any one or more of: a first plurality of bristles having a first stiffness, a second plurality of bristles having a second stiffness different to the first stiffness, a blade, a wiper, a microfibre material.
16. The brushroll according to any preceding claim, wherein the distal end of the second surface cleaning member is partially covered or covered or received by a portion of the body and / or first surface cleaning member in the first position.
17. The brushroll according to any preceding claim, wherein body defines an internal cavity, and the second surface cleaning member is at least partially located within the internal cavity in the first position.
18. A surface cleaning apparatus comprising:an upright body comprising a handle;a base connected to the upright body, said base configured for movement across a surface to be cleaned;a suction source;a suction nozzle provided on the base and defining a suction nozzle inlet in fluid communication with the suction source; anda brushroll according to any one of claims 1 to 17 provided on the base.
19. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the brushroll is removably provided on the base.
20. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 18 or 19, comprising a control system configured to receive an operational mode signal indicative an operational mode of the surface cleaning apparatus, and to output a signal to instruct the at least one second surface cleaning member to move from the first position to the second position based on the determined operational mode.
21. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 20, wherein the surface cleaning apparatus further comprises a sensor configured to detect a type of floor surface on which the surface cleaning apparatus is supported and generate a floor surface signal, the operational mode signal comprises the floor surface signal, andthe determination of the operational mode is made in dependence upon the detected floor surface.
22. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 20 or 21, wherein the surface cleaning apparatus further comprises a moisture sensor configured to detect the presence of a fluid on a floor surface on which the surface cleaning apparatus is supported and generate a moisture detected signal, the operational mode signal comprises the moisture detected signal, andthe determination of the operational mode is made in dependence upon the presence of fluid on the floor surface.
23. The surface cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the surface cleaning apparatus further comprises a mount configured to connect to a wet bin and a sensor or switch connected to the control system configured to generate a wet bin present signal when the wet bin is connected to the mount,the operational mode signal comprises the wet bin present signal, andthe determination of the operational mode is made in dependence upon whether the wet bin is mounted on the mount.
24. The surface cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the surface cleaning apparatus has a user operated input device and wherein the user operated input device is configured to generate a user requested operational mode signal indicative of a user requested operational mode, the operational mode signal comprises the user requested operational mode signal, andthe determination of the operational mode is made in dependence the user requested operational mode signal.28