A surface cleaning apparatus

Abstract

A surface cleaning apparatus has a main body with a suction source, and a base configured for movement across a surface to be cleaned and, the base having a suction nozzle defining a suction nozzle inlet. The surface cleaning apparatus also includes a fluid delivery system comprising a clean liquid supply chamber and a fluid dispenser provided on the base and in fluid communication with the clean liquid supply chamber and a fluid recovery system comprising a dirty liquid recovery chamber in fluid communication with the suction nozzle inlet. The surface cleaning apparatus also includes a tank for storing liquids, where the tank comprises a tank housing defining an internal cavity, and a diaphragm arranged within the tank housing to separate the internal cavity into a first volume defining the clean liquid supply chamber and a second volume defining the dirty liquid recovery chamber. A first port is fluidly connected to the first volume and a second port fluidly connected to the second volume. At least a part of the diaphragm is moveable to adjust the relative size of the first and second volumes.

Description

[0001] P609089PC00

[0002] A Surface Cleaning Apparatus

[0003] FIELD

[0004] The present teachings relate to a surface cleaning apparatus and a tank for a surface cleaning apparatus.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Surface cleaning apparatus are well-known devices for cleaning a variety of surfaces, such as hardwood and fabric. These can include two main systems: a fluid delivery system and a fluid recovery system. The fluid delivery system generally includes one or more fluid supply tanks that store cleaning fluid, a fluid distributor that applies the cleaning fluid to the surface being cleaned, and a fluid supply conduit that transports the cleaning fluid from the supply tank to the distributor.

[0007] The fluid recovery system usually comprises a recovery tank, a nozzle positioned adjacent to the surface being cleaned and connected to the recovery tank via a conduit, and a suction source that communicates with the conduit to draw the cleaning fluid from the surface, through the nozzle and conduit, and into the recovery tank.

[0008] The present teachings provide an improved surface cleaning apparatus.

[0009] SUMMARY

[0010] The present teachings provide a surface cleaning apparatus and a tank for a surface cleaning apparatus according to the appended claims.

[0011] A first aspect of the invention provides a surface cleaning apparatus comprising: a main body comprising a handle and a suction source; a base configured for movement across a surface to be cleaned and comprising a suction nozzle defining a suction nozzle inlet; a fluid delivery system comprising a clean liquid supply chamber and a fluid dispenser provided on the base and in fluid communication with the clean liquid supply chamber; a fluid recovery system comprising a dirty liquid recovery chamber in fluid communication with thesuction nozzle inlet; and a tank for storing liquids, said tank comprising a tank housing defining an internal cavity, wherein the tank comprises a diaphragm arranged within the tank housing to separate the internal cavity into a first volume defining the clean liquid supply chamber and a second volume defining the dirty liquid recovery chamber, a first port fluidly connected to the first volume, and a second port fluidly connected to the second volume, wherein at least a part of the diaphragm is moveable relative to the tank housing to adjust the relative size of the first and second volumes.

[0012] Optionally, wherein the diaphragm is configured to move between an expanded and collapsed state. Optionally, the diaphragm is configured to fold over itself to move between an expanded and collapsed state. Optionally, the diaphragm comprises a concertinaed body. Optionally, the diaphragm comprises a conical body.

[0013] Optionally, the diaphragm is fixedly attached to a side wall of the tank.

[0014] Optionally, the tank comprises a locking arrangement to secure the diaphragm to the side wall of the tank.

[0015] Optionally, the diaphragm is mounted between the side wall of the tank and either a removeable base of the tank or a part of a removable lid of the tank.

[0016] Optionally, the diaphragm comprises a piston configured to be moveable within the tank housing.

[0017] Optionally, the piston comprises a lipped perimeter rim.

[0018] Optionally, the piston comprises a seal extending around a perimeter thereof.

[0019] Optionally, the tank housing defines a length, and the piston is configured to move along said length.

[0020] Optionally, the surface cleaning apparatus further includes a drive mechanism that is operable to move the piston along the length of the tank housing.

[0021] Optionally, the diaphragm is at least partially made of a flexible material, optionally silicon or polyurethane.

[0022] Optionally, the tank housing comprises a cylindrical body, a removeable lid at one end of the body, and a removeable base at an opposing end of the body.Optionally, the first port is in the removeable lid or the removeable base, and the second port is on the other of the removeable lid or the removable base.

[0023] Optionally, the surface cleaning apparatus further includes a cap with a check valve arranged over the first port, wherein the check valve is operable between an open position to allow a fluid to flow through the first port, and a closed position that restricts fluid flow through the first port.

[0024] Optionally, the tank comprises a removable lid comprising the second port, wherein the second port comprises an inlet for receiving dirty liquid and air and an air outlet.

[0025] Optionally, the surface cleaning apparatus includes a filter arranged downstream of the inlet and upstream of the outlet for filtering debris.

[0026] Optionally, the removable lid comprises a separator configured to separate dirty liquid from the airflow.

[0027] Optionally, the separator comprises a shroud arranged downstream of the inlet, said shroud extending into the second volume of the tank and configured and arranged to deflect the dirty liquid onto a side wall of the tank housing.

[0028] Optionally, the tank is removably mounted to the base.

[0029] A duct may extend between the base and a port in a lid of the tank to fluidly connect the tank to the suction nozzle inlet. The duct may be integrally formed in a side wall of the tank.

[0030] A further aspect of the invention provides a tank for a surface cleaning apparatus, the tank comprising a tank housing defining an internal cavity, the tank comprising: a diaphragm arranged within the tank housing to separate the internal cavity into a first volume defining a clean liquid supply chamber and a second volume defining a dirty liquid recovery chamber; a first port fluidly connected to the first volume; and a second port fluidly connected to the second volume, wherein at least a part of the diaphragm is moveable relative to the tank housing to adjust the relative size of the first and second volumes.

[0031] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSEmbodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1 shows a surface cleaning apparatus according to the present teachings;

[0033] Figure 2 shows a surface cleaning apparatus according to the present teachings;

[0034] Figures 3 and 4 show the base of the surface cleaning apparatus shown in Figure 2;

[0035] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a tank according to an embodiment; Figure 6 shows an exploded view of a tank according to the present teachings;

[0036] Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the tank of Figure 6;

[0037] Figures 8A and 8B show perspective views of the diaphragm of Figure 6 in a collapsed and expanded state, respectively;

[0038] Figures 9A-9D show cross-sectional views of the sequential process of filling and emptying the tank of Figure 6;

[0039] Figure 10 shows an exploded view of a lid of the tank of Figure 6; and Figures 11A and 11B show cross-sectional views of a tank according to an embodiment.

[0040] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(S)

[0041] Referring firstly to Figure 1, a surface cleaning apparatus is shown and is indicated generally at 10. The apparatus 10 includes a main body 12. The main body 12 may also be referred to as an upright body or a housing. The apparatus 10 includes a base 14 connected to the main body. The base 14 is configured for movement across a surface to be cleaned. The base 14 may also be referred to as a floorhead. In the illustrated example, the apparatus 10 includes an elongate pole 16 fluidly connecting the base 14 to the main body 12.

[0042] In the illustrated example, the apparatus 10 includes an elongate pole 16 fluidly connecting the base 14 to the main 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 vacuumcleaner, 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 main body 12 without the need for the intermediate elongate pole 16.

[0043] The main body 12, in this example, is operable as a handheld surface cleaning apparatus in a second configuration, 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 main body 12 can be used with or without the base 14 connected thereto.

[0044] The main body 12 supports a suction source 18. The suction source 18 includes a motor which rotates a fan to generate a suction airflow. The main body 12 includes a main body inlet (not shown) that is releasably connectable to the pole 16 for fluidly connecting a suction nozzle inlet 15 of the base 14 with the suction source 18. The main body 12 supports a dirt separation device 20. The dirt separation device 20 includes a separator for separating dirt from dirt-laden air and water.

[0045] The main body 12 may include a user graspable handle 17. The suction source 18 may be positioned forward of the user graspable handle 17. In some embodiments, there may be a space for receiving a user's hand which extends between the user graspable handle 17 and the suction source 18.

[0046] As discussed above, the main body 12 supports the dirt separation device 20. The dirt separation device includes a tank 21 for storing liquids. The tank 21 is connected to, and supported by, the main body 12. In some embodiments, the tank 21 may be substantially cylindrical. In alternative embodiments, it will be appreciated that any suitable shape of tank 21 may be used. The tank 21 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 tank 21 may be removable (i.e. disconnected or detached) from the main body 12, for example to facilitate emptying of the liquid contained in the tank 21.

[0047] The user graspable handle 17 may be arranged on an opposing side of the suction source 18 to the tank 21 on the main body 12. Put another way, the suction source 18 may be arranged between the user graspable handle 17 and the tank 21 along an axis parallel to the elongate axis X of the tank 21. In someembodiments, the handle 17 may be arranged at a rear of the surface cleaning apparatus 10.

[0048] In some embodiments, the tank 21 may be supported by the main body 12 to enable movement of the tank 21 relative to the main body 12. The tank 21 may be moveable relative to the main body 12. Put another way, the tank 21 may be removable from the main body 12. The tank 21 may be moveable relative to the main body 12 between a first position in which the tank 21 is connected to and supported by the main body 12 and a second position in which the tank 21 s detached from the main body 12. In some embodiments, the tank 21 is moveable, e.g. slidable, relative to the main body 12 along an axis that is substantially parallel to the axis X.

[0049] The main body 12 may support the tank 21 whilst it is moving from the first position to the second position. The first position refers to a state in which the tank 21 is retained on the main body 12 whether that be a locked state in which the tank 21 is inhibited from movement relative to the main body 12, where the tank 21 is connected to the main body 12 and permitted to move relative to the main body 12. The second position refers to a state where the tank 21 is no longer supported by the main body 12 and has been removed or detached from the main body 12. This configuration may help to facilitate emptying of the tank 21, but this slidable and / or removable configuration of the tank 21 may be omitted in alternative embodiments.

[0050] Although not illustrated, the surface cleaning apparatus 10 includes a fluid delivery system and a fluid recovery system. The fluid delivery system includes a clean liquid supply chamber and a fluid dispenser 31. The clean liquid supply chamber is arranged to hold clean liquid, such as clean water, detergent or any other suitable cleaning liquid. The fluid dispenser 31 is provided on the base 14 of the surface cleaning apparatus 10. In the present example, the fluid dispenser 31 is provided as several outlets, e.g. nozzles or jets, arranged on the base 14. The fluid dispenser 31 is in fluid communication with the clean liquid supply chamber. In this example, the fluid dispenser 31 is in fluid communication with the clean liquid supply chamber through a tube 60 in the pole 16. The liquid contained within the clean liquid supply chamber is delivered to the surface to be cleaned by the base 14 by the fluid dispenser 31. The clean liquid can be deployed near to the base 14 e.g. near a suction nozzle inlet 15 during use. The clean liquid is then used in conjunction with a brushroll in the base (not shown) to help loosen andextract dirt from the surface to be cleaned. In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may include a pump to convey fluid from the clean liquid supply chamber to the fluid dispenser 31. The fluid recover system includes a dirty liquid recovery chamber. The dirty liquid recovery chamber is in fluid communication with the suction nozzle inlet 15 in the base 14. In this example, the dirty liquid recovery chamber is in fluid communication with the suction nozzle inlet 15 through the base 14. The dirty liquid recovery chamber is therefore arranged to receive dirty liquid from the suction nozzle inlet 15 through the operation of the suction source 118.

[0051] It will be understood that the tube 60 may be arranged to ensure that the fluid communication between the fluid dispenser 31 and the clean liquid supply chamber 32 does not interact with the fluid communication between the dirty liquid recovery chamber 42 and the suction nozzle inlet 15. For example, the pole 16 may have dedicated tubes 60 for the clean liquid supply chamber 32 and the dirty liquid recovery chamber 42.

[0052] Referring now to Figures 2 to 4, another exemplary surface cleaning apparatus is shown and indicated generally at 110. The apparatus 110 shown in Figure 2 is an exemplary wet-vacuum cleaner. Similarly to the surface cleaning apparatus 10 shown in Figure 1, the apparatus 110 includes a main body 112, also referred to as a housing. The apparatus 110 includes a base 114. In the illustrated example, the base 114 forms part of the main body 112 of the apparatus 110. The base 114 may also be referred to as a floorhead.

[0053] As with the apparatus 10 shown in Figure 1, the apparatus 110 shown in Figure 2 includes a suction source 118 with a motor that rotates a fan to generate a suction airflow. The main body 112 supports a dirt separation device 20, similar to the dirt separation device illustrated in Figure 1. In particular, the base 114 supports the dirt separation device 20.

[0054] The main body 112 includes a user graspable handle 117 that is connected to the base 114 through an elongate pole 116. In this example, the suction source 118 is positioned below the user graspable handle 117. Put another way, the suction source 118 is provided on the main body 112. In the illustrated example, the elongate pole 116 extends from the handle 117 and connects to an inclinable portion 122 of the main body 112. As shown in Figure 2, the inclinable portion 122 is connected (i.e. pivotally connected) to the base 114 at a lower end thereof.The inclinable portion 122 of the main body 112 is configured to pivot relative to the base 114.

[0055] The dirt separation device 20 includes a tank 21 for storing liquids. The dirt separation device 20 includes a separator for separating dirt from dirt-laden air and water. In this example, the dirt separation device 20 is mounted to the base 114. In this way, the dirt separation device 20 is maintained in an upright position when the inclinable portion 122 of the main body 112 is pivoted relative to the base 114. The orientation of the dirt separation device 20 is therefore fixed during operation of the surface cleaning apparatus 110. The inclinable portion 122 of the main body 112 is configured to pivot away from the tank 21. This allows a user to easily move and steer the surface cleaning apparatus 110 along a surface to be cleaned.

[0056] The surface cleaning apparatus 110 includes a fluid delivery system and a fluid recovery system, similar to what has been described with reference to Figure 1. As described with reference to Figure 1, the clean liquid can be dispensed near to the suction nozzle inlet 115. In this example, the suction nozzle inlet 115 is provided as a single outlet nozzle that extends along a width of the base 114.

[0057] The fluid delivery system includes a clean liquid supply chamber and a fluid dispenser 131. The clean liquid supply chamber is arranged to hold clean liquid, such as clean water, detergent or any other suitable cleaning liquid. The fluid dispenser 131 is provided on the base 114. One or more agitators 125 are provided on the base 114 to help loosen and extract dirt from the surface to be cleaned. In the illustrated example, five agitators 125a-e are provided, but any suitable number may be used in alternative embodiments. The agitators 125a-e are arranged to rotate about a substantially vertical axis, but may be arranged to rotate about a substantially horizontal axis in other embodiments. In the illustrated example, the fluid dispenser 131 is arranged near to, adjacent to or above the or each agitator 125. In this example, the fluid dispenser 131 is provided as a plurality of outlet nozzles on the base 114 arranged above the agitators 125a-e, but only a single nozzle may be provided.

[0058] The fluid recovery system includes a dirty liquid recovery chamber. The dirty liquid recovery chamber is in fluid communication with the suction nozzle inlet 115 in the base 114. In this example, the dirty liquid recovery chamber is in fluid communication with the suction nozzle inlet 115 through the base 114. The dirtyliquid recovery chamber is therefore arranged to receive dirty liquid from the suction nozzle inlet 115 through the operation of the suction source 118.

[0059] Referring to Figure 4, the tank 21 includes a lid 27. The lid 27 is configured to remove dirt from dirt-laden air and water that has been retrieved through the suction nozzle inlet 15. The lid 27 includes a port 46. The port 46 is in fluid communication with first and second ducts 47a, 47b that extend between the lid 27 and the base 28 of the tank 21. The first and second ducts 47a, 47b fluidly connect the tank 21 to the suction nozzle inlet 115 to receive dirt laden air and liquid. Although the illustrated example includes first and second ducts 47a, 47b, only a single duct or more than two ducts may be provided in alternative embodiments.

[0060] In the example illustrated in Figure 4, the first and second ducts 47a, 47b are provided in the form of conduits, pipes or tubes extending between the base 114 and the tank 21. In alternative embodiments, for example as illustrated in Figure 5, the first and second ducts 47a, 47b may be integrally formed with the tank 21. For example, the first and second ducts 47a, 47b may be integrally formed in a tank wall 24.

[0061] Referring now to Figure 6, the tank 21 is illustrated in more detail. The tank 21 has a tank housing 22 that defines an internal cavity 23. The tank housing 22 has a first end 22a and a second end 22b. A wall 24 of the tank housing 22 extends between the first end 22a and the second end 22b. The tank housing 22 has an external width Wi and an internal width W2. The external width Wi is an outer diameter of the tank housing 22. Similarly, the internal width W2is an internal diameter of the tank housing 22 (i.e. the perimeter of the cavity 23). The difference between the external width Wi and the internal width W2of the tank housing 22 may be determined by the thickness of the wall 24 of the tank housing 22.

[0062] As shown, the tank housing 22 is elongate and has a length L that extends along the elongate axis X of the tank 21. As shown, the length L of the tank 21 that is larger than the internal / external width Wi, W2of the tank housing 22. In this example, the tank housing 22 is cylindrical. The wall 24 of the tank housing 22 is therefore a continuous surface that extends around the outer diameter Wi of the tank housing 22.The lid 27 is arranged at the first end 22a of the tank 21, and a tank base 28 is arranged at the second end 22b of the tank 21. The tank base 28 and the lid 27 of the tank housing 22 delimit the internal cavity 23 of the tank 21. Both the base 28 and the lid 27 of the tank housing 22 may be removable from the tank 21. In other examples, only the tank base 28 may be removable, or only the lid 27 may be removable from the tank housing 22.

[0063] In this example, the tank base 28 is removably mounted to the tank housing 22 through a threaded arrangement 29 on the tank housing 22. The threaded arrangement 29 extends around the second end 22b of the tank 21. As shown, the threaded arrangement 29 extends on the inside surface of the tank wall 24. The threaded arrangement 29 in this example is provided on a region of the tank housing 22 that has a larger outer diameter than the rest of the tank housing 22. This is to facilitate ease of removing the tank base 28 from the tank 21. However, in other examples, the threaded arrangement 29 may be provided on a region of the tank housing 22 that has the same diameter as the outer diameter Wi of the tank 21. Similarly, the threaded arrangement 29 may be provided on an outer surface of the side wall 24. The tank base 28 also has a complimentary threaded arrangement 28a that is arranged to engage with, and secure to, the threaded arrangement 29 on the tank housing 22. The threaded arrangement 28a on the tank base 28 is provided on an outer surface of a rim of the tank base 28. Therefore, the tank base 28 sits flush within the tank housing 22 through the threaded arrangements 28a, 29. The tank base 28 is therefore removably secured to the tank housing 22 via the threaded arrangement 28a.

[0064] The lid 27 is removably received in the tank housing 22 through an interference fit. An inner diameter of the lid 27 is sized to be received within the inner diameter W2of the tank housing 22. The lid is therefore removable by pulling the lid 27 upward and away from the tank housing 22. The lid 27 and / or tank base 28 are therefore moveable between a secured position (installed or otherwise attached to the tank 21) and a released position in the user has access to the internal cavity 23 of the tank 21. The user may therefore remove the lid 27 or tank base 28, for example, to fill the internal cavity with cleaning liquid, or empty dirty liquid contained in the tank (discussed in more detail below). In other examples, both the lid 27 and the tank base 28 may be secured to the tank housing 22 via threaded arrangements, interference fit, or any other suitable method to mount the lid 27 and / or tank base 28 to the tank housing 22, such as a hinged connection.While the tank housing 22 in this example is shown as being substantially cylindrical in this example, it will be understood that the tank housing 22 may be provided as any suitable shape that is received on the main body 12 of the surface cleaning apparatus 10. For example, the tank housing 22 may be cuboidal or irregularly shaped. The lid 27 and the tank base 28 may be shaped according to the shape of the tank housing 22 to contain the internal cavity 23.

[0065] The tank 21 also includes a diaphragm 50, shown in a collapsed state in Figure 4. The diaphragm 50 is arranged within the internal cavity 23 of the tank 21 to separate the internal cavity 23 into a first volume 34 and a second volume 44. The first volume 34 of the internal cavity 23 defines the clean liquid supply chamber 32, while the second volume 44 defines the dirty liquid recovery chamber 42. The diaphragm 50 is configured so that at least a part of the diaphragm is moveable to adjust the relative size of the first volume 34 and the second volume 44. At least part of the diaphragm 50 may be moveable to adjust the relative size of the first volume 34 and the second volume 44 in the tank 21. By providing a diaphragm 50 in the tank 21, the cleaning apparatus 10 only requires one tank to provide the cleaning liquid and retrieve the collected liquid. This provides a more compact arrangement that is easier for a user to use.

[0066] Referring now to Figure 7, the diaphragm 50 is illustrated in an expanded state. The tank 21 includes a clean liquid supply chamber 32. The clean liquid supply chamber 32 is arranged to hold clean liquid, such as clean water, detergent or any other suitable cleaning liquid. The fluid delivery system is configured to convey the clean liquid from the chamber 32 to the fluid dispenser 31, 131.

[0067] The fluid dispenser 31 is in fluid communication with the clean liquid supply chamber 32. In the embodiment of Figure 1, the fluid dispenser 31 is in fluid communication with the clean liquid supply chamber 32 through a tube 60 in the pole 16. In the embodiment of Figure 2, the fluid dispenser 31 is in fluid communication with the clean liquid supply chamber 32 through a fluid pathway extending through the base 114. The fluid delivery system in both the surface cleaning apparatus 10 and 110 may include an actuator (not shown), e.g. in the form of a user operable button or switch, for delivering fluid from the clean liquid supply chamber 32 to the fluid dispenser 31, 131. A user may deliver clean liquid from the clean liquid supply chamber 32 to the fluid dispenser 31, 131 by operating the actuator 33, 133 e.g. by pressing the user operable button, to release deliver clean liquid to the surface to be cleaned near the base 14, 114. itwill be understood that the fluid dispenser 31, 131 may be provided in any suitable arrangement that is able to deliver fluid from the clean liquid supply chamber 32 to the surface to be cleaned by the base 14, 114.

[0068] The tank 21 includes a dirty liquid recovery chamber 42. The dirty liquid recovery chamber 42 is in fluid communication with the suction nozzle inlet 15, 115.

[0069] The tank housing 26 has a first port 36 that is in fluid communication with the first volume 34. The tank housing 26 also has a second port 46 (the port 46, described above) that is in fluid communication with the second volume 44. The surface cleaning apparatus 10 is arranged to delivery clean liquid from the clean liquid supply chamber 32 to the base 14 through the fluid port 36. Similarly, the surface cleaning apparatus 10 is arranged to receive and collect dirty liquid from the suction nozzle inlet 15 through the second port 46, which is in fluid communication with the dirty liquid recovery chamber 42. In the examples shown the first port 36 is provided on the tank base 28 of the tank 21, while the second port 46 is provided on the lid 27 of the tank 21. The first port 36 and the second port 46 may therefore be easily removed from the tank 21 as they each form part of the lid 27 and tank base 28 respectively. However, in other examples, the first port 36 and / or the second port 46 may provided as part of the wall 24 of the tank 21, or otherwise in fluid communication with the first volume 34 and second volume 44 of the tank 21.

[0070] The first port 36 and the second port 46 may be openings that allow fluid communication between the first volume 34 and the base 14 and the second volume 44 and the suction inlet nozzle 15. However, in other examples, the tank 21 may further have a cap 60 with a check valve 62 over the first port 36. The cap 60 may be operable to move the check valve 62 between an open and closed position. In the open position, the check valve 62 opens the flow path and permits the flow of liquid from the first volume 34 and out through the first port 36. In the closed position, the check valve 62 obstructs the flow path and prevents the flow of liquid from the first volume 34 and through the first port 36. This arrangement may be used to prevent clean liquid from dispensing from the first volume 34 during certain operations of the surface cleaning apparatus 10 or may be used to prevent a backflow of liquid into the first volume. The operation of the cap 60 and check valve 62 may be controlled by the user or may be automatically controlled by the surface cleaning apparatus 10.The diaphragm 50 is arranged to change the relative size of the volumes 34, 44 by being moveable between the collapsed state and the expanded state. The diaphragm 50 is arranged in the internal cavity 23 so that the diaphragm 50 expands with the introduction of liquid into the first volume 34 and collapses to increase the second volume 44 with the introduction of liquid into the second volume 44. In other arrangements, the diaphragm 50 may operate in a reversed manner (i.e. expands with introduction of liquid into the second volume 44 and collapse with the introduction of liquid into the first volume 34).

[0071] The diaphragm 50 has a mounting base 51. In this example, the base 51 is substantially circular to match the inner diameter W2of the tank housing. The outer perimeter of the base 51 matches the internal diameter W2of the tank housing 22 so the diaphragm effectively separates the first volume 34 and the second volume 44 when the diaphragm 50 is housed inside the internal cavity 23 of the tank housing 22. The diaphragm 50 therefore blocks any passage of fluid from the clean liquid supply chamber 32 to the dirty liquid recovery chamber 42 and vice versa.

[0072] The diaphragm 50 is rigidly or fixedly attached to the wall 24 of the tank 21. In the illustrated example, the mounting base 51 of the diaphragm 50 is received in a correspondingly shaped recess 28b in the tank 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting portion or rim 51 of the diaphragm 50 is mounted and secured between the side wall of the tank housing 22 and the removable base 51. In particular, mounting portion 51 is clamped between a lower edge of the side wall of the tank housing 22 and the tank base 28. In other embodiments, a portion 51 of the diaphragm 50 may be mounted and secured between the side wall of the tank housing 22 and the removable lid 27, e.g. between an upper edge of the side wall of the tank housing 22 and the lid 27. In further alternative embodiments, the diaphragm 50 may be mounted to a part of the side wall of the tank housing 22 at a location spaced apart from the lid 27 and base. It will be appreciated, however, that the diaphragm 50 may be installed or otherwise secured to the recess 28b by any suitable means. For example, the base rim 51 may be arranged to be received in the recess 28b in a "snap-fit" arrangement.

[0073] The diaphragm 50 has a distal end 58 opposite the mounting base 51. The height H of the diaphragm 50 is defined between the base 51 and the end 58 when the diaphragm 50 is in a fully expanded state. The width W of the diaphragm 50 decreases along the height H of the diaphragm 50. The diaphragm 50 therefore isthe widest at the base 51, and narrowest at the end 58. In this example, the diaphragm 50 has a conical shape that tapers to the end 58. The diaphragm 50 has a substantially truncated pyramid shape. By having this shape, the diaphragm 50 is able to collapse within itself to move between the collapsed state and the expanded state.

[0074] Referring to Figures 8A and 8B, the diaphragm 50 has a bellows configuration. Put another way, the diaphragm 50 has a concertinaed body or walls that allow the diaphragm to expand (shown in Figure 8B) and contract (shown in Figure 8A). In the illustrated example, the concertinaed body is conical. The diaphragm 50 is stable in the extended position until the volume of liquid in the second volume provides enough force against the end 58 or other parts of the diaphragm 50 to cause it to collapse on itself. Similarly, the diaphragm 50 moves between the collapsed state to an at least partially expanded state when the volume of liquid in the first volume 34 generates enough force against the diaphragm 50 to cause expansion. The amount of force, or volume of liquid, that will cause the diaphragm 50 to collapse may be customised by changing various structural properties of the diaphragm 50, such as the thickness of the walls, material used and configuration of the diaphragm.

[0075] The diaphragm bellows 52 are formed of a series of relatively rigid walls 54 that are interspersed with flexural hinges 55, which flex as the diaphragm 50 is collapsed or expanded. Each bellow 52 describes a segment of the diaphragm with walls 54 that is interconnected to an adjacent wall 54 through a flexural hinge 55. The walls 54 extend 20-40 degrees off vertical (i.e. the longitudinal X-axis along the height H of the diaphragm 50) in the expanded form. This allows the walls 54 to fold next to each other in a generally parallel configuration, reducing the profile of the diaphragm 50 in a collapsed state. The walls 54 of the diaphragm 50 are therefore arranged to fold over themselves to collapse. The flexing hinges 55 and the conical shape of the diaphragm 50 allows the walls 54 to fold next to each other rather than stacking on top of each other. This maximises the first volume 34 in the internal cavity 23 in the expanded state, and also maximises the second volume 44 in the internal cavity 23 when the diaphragm 50 is in the collapsed state. In other examples, the diaphragm 50 may be arranged to collapse so that the walls 54 stack on top of each other. The bellows 52 therefore allow the diaphragm 50 to collapse and expand in the axial direction X.Movement of the diaphragm 50 between the collapsed and the expanded state is shown in Figures 9A-9D. In Figure 9A, the tank housing 22 is removed from the surface cleaning apparatus 10 and the first volume 34 is filled with a clean liquid 34a. The clean liquid 34a may be introduced into the first volume 34 by removing the tank base 28 of the tank housing 22 and introducing the clean liquid 34a within the first volume 34. Alternatively, the clean liquid 34a may be introduced into the first volume 34 through the first port 36, as indicated by arrow A in Figure 9A. The diaphragm 50 may be in an expanded state as shown in Figure 9A or may be partially expanded depending on the volume of clean liquid 34a introduced into the first volume 34. The tank base 28 is secured back onto the tank housing 22.

[0076] In Figure 9B, the tank housing 22 is received on the main body 12 of the surface cleaning apparatus 10. As shown, the first port 36 is received in the cap 60, and fluid flow through the first port 36 is controlled by the check valve 62. In this arrangement, the cap 60 and check valve 62 are provided as part of the surface cleaning apparatus main body 12. In other examples, the cap 60 and check valve 62 may be formed as part of the tank 21. the surface cleaning apparatus 10 begins to operate. The volume of the clean liquid 34a decreases as the clean liquid 34a is dispensed through the first port 36, indicated by arrow B. The decrease in clean liquid 34a in the first volume 34 may be controlled by the user using the fluid dispenser 31 or may be automatically dispensed as the surface apparatus 10 is used. The clean liquid 34a exits through the first port 36 and through the fluid dispenser 31 near the base 14. The volume of liquid in the first volume 34 therefore decreases. As the suction nozzle 15 is used on the surface being cleaned, the collected dirty liquid 44a is introduced into the second volume 44 though the second port 46, as indicated by arrow 84. In Figure 9B, a small volume of dirty liquid 44a is in the second volume 44. In this arrangement, the lid 27 has a conical flared skirt 39 that has a base 39a extending outwardly to a rim 39b. As dirty liquid 44a enters the second volume, the dirty liquid 44a contacts the flared skirt 39 and is deflected into the second volume 44. This ensures an even dispersion of dirty liquid 44a into the tank 22. Furthermore, due to the conical shape of the diaphragm 50, the dirty liquid 44a collects near the base 51 of the diaphragm 50. However, as the volume of dirty liquid 44a increases, the volume of dirty liquid 44a in the second volume 44 increases, as shown in Figure 9C.The diaphragm bellows 52 begin to collapse towards the base 51 as the clean liquid 34a is pumped out of the tank 22. This is because a negative hydraulic pressure is created when the clean liquid 34a is pumped from the first volume 34. This draws the end 58 of the diaphragm 50 towards the base 51. Additionally, the increased volume of dirty liquid 44a may also create a force against the end 58 of the diaphragm 50. This may contribute to the collapse of the diaphragm 50 and in some instances and may also allow the diaphragm 50 to collapse more evenly. However, the diaphragm 50 collapses primarily due to the change in hydraulic pressure within the tank 22 as the clean liquid 34a is removed from the tank 22. The diaphragm 50 in Figure 9C is therefore in a partially expanded state. The first volume 34 therefore decreases as the volume of the second volume 44 increases. This occurs as the surface cleaning apparatus 10 is being used as more dirty liquid 44a is in the second volume 44. This may occur as the volume of clean liquid 34a in the first volume 34 decreases or may occur as the volume of clean liquid 34 in the first volume 34 remains the same. The diaphragm 50 therefore partially collapses to increase the relative second volume 34 of the tank 21 to the first volume 44.

[0077] Finally, in Figure 9D, the diaphragm 50 is in a fully collapsed state. The first volume 34 is decreased to a minimum volume and the second volume 44 has increased to a maximum volume in the tank 21. The first volume 34 may contain a small volume of clean liquid 34a between the walls 54 when the diaphragm 50 is fully collapsed or may alternatively contain no clean liquid 34a. The second volume 44 is at a maximum volume when the diaphragm 50 is in a fully collapsed state. Once the second volume 44 is full of dirty liquid 44a, the operator may remove the tank 21 from the main body 12 to remove the dirty liquid 44a from the tank 21. Preferably, the dirty liquid 44a is removed from the second volume 44 by removing the lid 27 and pouring the dirty liquid 44a out. This allows the user to transport the tank 21 containing the dirty liquid 44a without worrying that the dirty liquid 44a will spill out because it is contained by the lid 27 and the tank base 28. Removing the lid 27 also provides the user to easily remove large volumes of liquid from the second volume 44. In other examples, the user may empty the dirty liquid 44a through the second port 46 without removing the lid 27. Emptying the dirty liquid 44a in this manner is quicker for the user. Furthermore, emptying the dirty liquid 44a through the second port 46 prevents backsplash of dirty liquid while the tank 21 is being emptied because the lid 27 is secured in position. It is easy for the user to empty the internal cavity 23 of the tank 21 because the diaphragm 50 is not attached to the first inlet 36 or thesecond inlet 46, and so, the diaphragm does not have to be removed to empty the second volume 44. However, if the user desires to clean the diaphragm 50 or the side walls of the tank 21, then it is easy for the user to remove the diaphragm 50 from the tank 21. Once the second volume 44 is emptied, the lid 27 can be reattached to the tank housing 22, and the tank base 28 can be opened to add clean liquid into the first volume 34. The introduction of liquid into the first volume 34 causes the diaphragm 50 to expand into a partially expanded or fully expanded state, as shown in Figure 9A.

[0078] Referring now to Figure 10, the lid 27 of the tank 21 is illustrated in more detail. The lid 27 is configured to remove dirt from dirt-laden air and water that has been retrieved through the suction nozzle inlet 15. The lid 27 includes a lid housing 66, a separator 68, and a filter 70. The separator 68 is nested within the housing 66. The filter 70 is arranged within the separator 68.

[0079] The lid housing 66 includes the second port 46. In this arrangement, the second port 46 includes a second inlet port 46a and a second outlet port 46b. The second inlet port 46a is in fluid communication with the nozzle inlet 15, 115 to receive dirt-laden air and liquid from the suction nozzle inlet 15. The dirt-laden air and liquid enters the tank 21 via the second inlet port 46a and flows onto the separator 68.

[0080] The separator 68 includes a skirt 76 extending therearound. The skirt 76 is angled downwardly towards the side wall of the tank housing 22. Put another way, the skirt 76 extends from an inner, upper, edge 76a to a lower, outer, edge 76b. The lower edge 76b of the skirt 76 is spaced apart from the side wall of the tank housing 22 to enable the liquid to pass therebetween. When the dirt-laden air and liquid flows down the skirt 76 it is directed towards the side wall of the tank housing 22. Put another way, the skirt 76 is configured and arranged to direct dirt-laden air and liquid to the side wall of the tank housing 22. Upon contacting the side wall of the tank housing 22, the dirt-laden liquid falls down the side wall of the tank housing 22. This works to separate the dirt-laden air from the dirtladen liquid.

[0081] In some embodiments, the skirt 76 may also include one more supporting members 78. The supporting members 78 may be provided in the form of reinforcing ribs. The supporting members 78 may be equally spaced around the skirt 76. The reinforcing members 78 are configured to counteract any cyclonic air pattern within the lid 27 that may adversely affect the operation of the separator68. The reinforcing members 78 may also, or alternatively act as guide members to guide dirt-laden liquid towards the bottom edge of the skirt 76.

[0082] The filter 70 is provided within the lid 27 to evenly distribute the suction applied to the separator 68 to improve liquid separation within the separator 68. In this example, the filter 70 is provided as a perforated plate, but it will be understood that any suitable arrangement of filter 70 may be utilised. Any air that has been retrieved during this process flows through the lid 27 and out of the second outlet port 74. This filtered air is then expelled from the surface cleaning apparatus at any suitable location. The lid housing 66 may include an exit port 80 to enable the separated air to be expelled from the tank 21.

[0083] While the lid 27 has been described in this arrangement with three nested components, it will be understood that any suitable lid maybe provided with the tank containing a diaphragm 50, in other embodiments.

[0084] Figures 11A and 11B show a cross-sectional view of an alternative tank 21 for use with the surface cleaning apparatus 10. The tank 21 is substantially the same as the tank 21 shown in Figures 6 to 9D. Although not illustrated, the lid 27 may include the separator and filter as described with reference to Figure 10.

[0085] In this embodiment, the diaphragm is provided in the form of a moveable piston 150. The diaphragm 150 operates in a substantially similar way to the diaphragm 50 to be moveable within the tank housing 22 to change the relative volumes of the first volume 34 and the second volume 44.

[0086] The diaphragm 150 has a piston 151 that is substantially planar and has a width W that extends across the inner diameter W2of the tank housing 22. In this example, the piston 151 of the diaphragm 150 is circular to match the inner cavity 23 of the tank 21. It will be understood that the piston 151 will be configured to conform to any suitable shape of the tank housing 22. The piston 151 may include a lipped rim 152 that extends around the perimeter of the piston 151. As shown, the diaphragm 150 has at least one seal 153 that extends around the perimeter of the diaphragm 150. The seal 153 extends between the lipped rim 152 and the inner surface of the tank housing 22. The seal 153 ensures that the diaphragm 150 provides a fluid tight separation between the first volume 34 and the second volume 44. The diaphragm 150 has two seals 153 that are axially distanced from each other along the lipped rim 152 of the diaphragm 150. However, it will be understood that any number, type or configuration of seal maybe used to achieve a fluid separation between the first volume 34 and the second volume 44.

[0087] The diaphragm 150 is arranged to translate along the length L of the tank 21 (i.e. in the axial direction) to change the relative volume of the first volume 34 and the second volume 44. Similarly to the function of the diaphragm 50 described in Figures 9A to 9D, as the volume of the clean liquid 34a in the first volume 34 increases, the axial position of the diaphragm 150 changes. The piston 151 translates the diaphragm 150 axially when the clean liquid 34a is pumped out of the tank 22. This is because a negative hydraulic pressure is created within the tank 22 when clean liquid 34a is pumped from the first volume 34. This causes the diaphragm 150 to translate axially towards proximally towards the lid 27. Additionally, the increased volume of dirty liquid 44a may create a force against the diaphragm 150. This may contribute to the translation of the diaphragm 150, and in some instances, help the diaphragm 150 to translate in a uniform manner along the tank 22. However, the diaphragm 150 primarily translates due to the change in hydraulic pressure within the tank 22 as the clean liquid 34a is removed from the tank 22. In this example, the diaphragm 150 moves proximal to the lid 27 (and reduces the volume of the second volume 44) as the volume 34 increases. Conversely, as the surface cleaning apparatus 10 is used and collects dirty liquid 44a, the dirty liquid 44a contacts against the piston 151 of the diaphragm 150 and translates the diaphragm 150 to increase the second volume 44. In this example, the diaphragm 150 is translated axially towards the tank base 28 to increase the second volume 44 within the tank 21. In this example, the axial translation of the diaphragm 150 is passive and is controlled by the volume of liquid in each respective volume 34, 44. In other examples, the movement of the diaphragm 150 may be controlled by a drive mechanism 80 (not shown) that is operable by the user or by the surface cleaning apparatus 10 to translate the diaphragm 150 along the tank 21 to change the relative volumes 34, 44 within the tank 21. The drive mechanism 80 may be operated by the same actuator 33 used to operate the fluid distributer 31, so that the diaphragm 150 translates to deliver clean liquid 34a from the tank 21 by reducing the first volume 34 within the tank 21.

[0088] In both arrangements, the diaphragm 50, 150 are made at least partially from a flexible material, such as polyurethane or silicone. The diaphragms 50, 150 are therefore easily moveable within the tank 21 to change the relative volume of the first volume 34 and the second volume 44. This also allows the diaphragm 50 toeasily move between a collapsed and expanded state. The diaphragms 50, 150 are also easy to remove and clean by the user.

[0089] Although the invention has been described above with reference to one or more preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

Claims1. A surface cleaning apparatus comprising:a main body comprising a handle;a base configured for movement across a surface to be cleaned and comprising a suction nozzle defining a suction nozzle inlet;a fluid delivery system comprising a clean liquid supply chamber, and a fluid dispenser provided on the base in fluid communication with the clean liquid supply chamber;a fluid recovery system comprising a dirty liquid recovery chamber in fluid communication with the suction nozzle inlet; anda tank for storing liquids, said tank comprising a tank housing defining an internal cavity,wherein the tank comprisesa diaphragm arranged within the tank housing to separate the internal cavity into a first volume defining the clean liquid supply chamber and a second volume defining the dirty liquid recovery chamber,a first port fluidly connected to the first volume, anda second port fluidly connected to the second volume,wherein at least a part of the diaphragm is moveable relative to the tank housing to adjust the relative size of the first and second volumes.

2. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the diaphragm is configured to move between an expanded and collapsed state.

3. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the diaphragm is configured to fold over itself to move between an expanded and collapsed state.

4. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the diaphragm comprises a concertinaed body.

5. The surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the diaphragm comprises a conical body.

6. The surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the diaphragm is fixedly attached to a side wall of the tank.

7. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the tank comprises a locking arrangement to secure the diaphragm to the side wall of the tank.

8. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the diaphragm is mounted between the side wall of the tank and either a removeable base of the tank or a part of a removable lid of the tank.

9. The surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the diaphragm comprises a piston configured to be moveable within the tank housing.

10. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the piston comprises a lipped perimeter rim.

11. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the piston comprises a seal extending around a perimeter thereof.

12. The surface cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the tank housing defines a length, and the piston is configured to move along said length.

13. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 12, comprising a drive mechanism that is operable to move the piston along the length of the tank housing.

14. The surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the diaphragm is at least partially made of a flexible material, optionally silicon or polyurethane.

15. The surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the tank comprises a removeable lid at one end of the tank housing, and a removeable base at an opposing end of the tank housing.

16. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first port is in the removeable lid or the removeable base, and the second port is on the other of the removeable lid or the removable base.

17. The surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the tank is removably mounted to the base.

18. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 17, comprising a duct extending between the base and a port in a lid of the tank to fluidly connect the tank to the suction nozzle inlet.

19. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the duct is integrally formed in a side wall of the tank.

20. The surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim, comprising a cap with a check valve arranged over the first port, wherein the check valve is operable between an open position to allow a fluid to flow through the first port, and a closed position that restricts fluid flow through the first port.

21. The surface cleaning apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the tank comprises a removable lid comprising the second port, wherein the second port comprises an inlet for receiving dirty liquid and air and an air outlet.

22. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 21, comprising a filter arranged downstream of the inlet and upstream of the outlet for filtering debris.

23. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the removable lid comprises a separator configured to separate dirty liquid from the airflow.

24. The surface cleaning apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the separator comprises a shroud arranged downstream of the inlet, said shroud extending into the second volume of the tank and configured and arranged to deflect the dirty liquid onto a side wall of the tank housing.

25. A tank for a surface cleaning apparatus, the tank comprising a tank housing defining an internal cavity, the tank comprising:a diaphragm arranged within the tank housing to separate the internal cavity into a first volume defining a clean liquid supply chamber and a second volume defining a dirty liquid recovery chamber;a first port fluidly connected to the first volume; anda second port fluidly connected to the second volume,wherein at least a part of the diaphragm is moveable relative to the tank housing to adjust the relative size of the first and second volumes.

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