Abstract
A vacuum cleaner including a power head having a power head housing at least partially enclosing a power head volume therein, a blower assembly at least partially positioned within the power head volume, and a docking interface including a plurality of connection elements. Where each connection element of the plurality of connection elements is configured to form a releasable connection with an accessory.
Claims
1. A vacuum cleaner comprising: a power head including: a power head housing at least partially enclosing a power head volume therein, a blower assembly at least partially positioned within the power head volume, and a docking interface including a plurality of connection elements, wherein each connection element of the plurality of connection elements is configured to form a releasable connection with an accessory.
2. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1, further comprising a container defining a container volume therein, wherein the power head is removably couplable to the container, and wherein the blower assembly is configured to draw dust and debris into the container volume.
3. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1, wherein the docking interface defines a docking plane, and wherein each connection element lies on the docking plane.
4. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1, wherein each connection element of the plurality of connection elements has a similar size and shape.
5. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1, wherein each connection element of the plurality of connection elements defines a direction of insertion.
6. The vacuum cleaner of claim 5, wherein the direction of insertion for each connection element is parallel.
7. The vacuum cleaner of claim 5, wherein the docking interface defines a docking plane, and wherein the direction of insertion for at least one connection element is parallel to the docking plane.
8. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1, wherein the plurality of connection elements is positioned so that a single accessory may form a releasable connection with two or more connection elements simultaneously.
9. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1, wherein at least one connection element of the plurality of connection elements includes a pocket formed into the docking interface with at least one tab extending into the pocket from the perimeter thereof.
10. The vacuum cleaner of claim 1, wherein the docking interface includes a docking plate with a substantially planar exterior surface.
11. A vacuum cleaner comprising: a power head including: a power head housing at least partially enclosing a power head volume therein, a blower assembly at least partially positioned within the power head volume, a docking plate defining a docking plane, wherein the docking plate is configured to allow one or more accessories to be releasably attached thereto, and a handle recessed into the docking plate below the docking plane.
12. The vacuum cleaner of claim 11, wherein the handle includes a recess formed into the docking plate and a grip portion positioned within the recess.
13. The vacuum cleaner of claim 11, wherein the docking plate includes a plurality of connection elements, and wherein each connection element is configured to form a releasable connection with an accessory.
14. The vacuum cleaner of claim 13, wherein the plurality of connection elements define a connection region, and wherein the handle is positioned completely within the connection region.
15. The vacuum cleaner of claim 11, wherein the handle is positioned on the docking plate so that the handle remains accessible when at least one accessory is attached to the docking plate.
16. The vacuum cleaner of claim 15, wherein the handle is positioned on the docking plate so that the handle is inaccessible when at least one accessory is attached to the docking plate.
17. The vacuum cleaner of claim 11, wherein the power head defines a midpoint axis, and wherein the handle intersects the midpoint axis.
18. The vacuum cleaner of claim 11, wherein the power head defines a center of gravity, and wherein a reference axis oriented normal to the docking plane passes through both the center of gravity and the handle simultaneously.
19. The vacuum cleaner of claim 18, wherein the power head defines a stack axis, and wherein the docking plane is oriented normal to the stack axis.
20. A vacuum cleaner comprising: a container defining a container volume therein, wherein the container forms a first connection interface; and a power head including: a power head housing at least partially enclosing a power head volume therein, wherein the power head housing includes a second connection interface configured to be releasably attached to the first connection interface of the container, a blower assembly at least partially positioned within the power head volume and in fluid communication with the container volume when the power head is releasably attached therein, and a docking interface having an exterior surface facing opposite the second connection interface, wherein the docking interface includes a plurality of connection elements formed into the exterior surface, and wherein each of the connection elements is configured to form a releasable connection with an accessory.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vacuum assembly.
[0025] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the vacuum assembly of FIG. 1.
[0026] FIG. 3A is a top view of the vacuum assembly of FIG. 1 with a single accessory attached thereto.
[0027] FIG. 3B is a top view of the vacuum assembly of FIG. 1 with two accessories attached thereto.
[0028] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the power head of the vacuum assembly of FIG. 1.
[0029] FIG. 5 is a detailed perspective view of the hose rest of the vacuum assembly of FIG. 1.
[0030] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a remote user input for use with the vacuum assembly of FIG. 1.
[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates the remote user input of FIG. 6A installed on the distal end of a vacuum hose.
[0032] FIG. 8 is a section view taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 with the remote user input removed.
[0033] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a transport assembly for use with the vacuum assembly of FIG. 1.
[0034] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of the transport assembly of FIG. 9.
[0035] FIGS. 11A-11D illustrate indicia for use with the vacuum assembly of FIG. 1.
[0036] FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate a volute for use with the vacuum assembly of FIG. 1.
[0037] FIG. 13 is a section view taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 12A.
[0038] FIG. 14 illustrates the vacuum assembly of FIG. 1 with an intermediate stack accessory included therein.
[0039] FIG. 15 illustrates another embodiment of the vacuum assembly with two battery terminals.
[0040] FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate another embodiment of a distal end of a vacuum hose.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0041] Before any embodiments are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of including, comprising or having and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms mounted, connected and coupled are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mounting, connecting and coupling. Further, connected and coupled are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, and can include hydraulic or electrical connections or couplings, whether direct or indirect.
[0042] FIGS. 1-4 illustrate a vacuum assembly 100. More specifically, the vacuum assembly 100 is a form of wet/dry vacuum assembly including a collection vessel or container 104 defining a collection volume 106 therein, and a power head 108 removably couplable to the collection container 104. The vacuum assembly 100 also defines a support plane 114 that is parallel to the support surface upon which the vacuum 100 rests during operation, and a stack axis 122 extending in the direction of stacking. In the illustrated embodiment, the stack axis 122 is normal to the support plane 114 (see FIG. 2).
[0043] The container 104 of the vacuum assembly 100 includes a body 110 at least partially defining the collection volume 106 therein. More specifically, the body 110 includes a base wall 112, and a plurality of side walls 116 extending from the periphery of the base wall 112 to define an open end 120 opposite thereof. The resulting open end 120 provides access to the collection volume 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the base wall 112 is generally octagonal in shape having eight side walls 116 extending upwardly therefrom. However, in other embodiments, different shaped containers may be present. In the illustrated embodiment, the base wall 112 is parallel to the support plane 114. In still other embodiments, the base wall 112 is normal to the stack axis 122.
[0044] As shown in FIG. 2, the open end 120 of the container 102 forms a first connection interface 124 to which other devices may be releasably attached (e.g., the power head 108 or other intermediate stack accessories 130, discussed below). During use, the first connection interface 124 serves to physically align the connected elements (e.g., vertically, horizontally, and rotationally) while also establishing an internal connection region. The internal connection region, in turn, serves as an area where various operable connections (e.g., airflow passage connections, electrical connections, debris passage connections, and the like) may be made and the transfer of material (e.g., air, dust, debris, and the like) may occur within the confines of the assembled vacuum's structure.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 1, the container 102 also includes a coupling element 134 positioned proximate the open end 120 and configured to form a releasable connection with a corresponding coupling element 134 of either the power head 108 or an intermediate stack accessory 130. More specifically, the container 102 includes a lip formed into the body 110 thereof to which a latch 142 may releasably engage. While the illustrated coupling element 134 is a lip to be used together with a corresponding latch 142, it is understood that in other embodiments the positions may be reversed. In still other embodiments, other forms of connection (e.g., latches, clamps, clips, and the like) may be used.
[0046] As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the power head 108 of the vacuum assembly 100 includes a housing 146 at least partially enclosing a power head volume 148 therein, a blower assembly 152 at least partially positioned within the power head volume 148 of the housing 146 and in fluid communication with the collection volume 106 when the power head 108 is attached to the container 102, and an inlet passage 150 extending between and open to the exterior of the housing 146 and the collection volume 106 when the power head 108 is attached to the container 104.
[0047] The housing 146 of the power head 108, in turn, includes a series of walls or plates that at least partially define the power head volume 148. More specifically, the housing 146 includes a bottom or base wall 154, a face plate or front wall 156 extending from the base wall, a back plate or back wall 158 extending from the base wall 154 opposite the front plate 156, and a pair of side walls 162 extending from the base wall 154 between the front plate 156 and the back plate 158. The housing 146 also includes a top plate or top wall 166 opposite the base wall 154 to at least partially enclose the power head volume 148 therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the base wall 154 defines a base wall plane 160 generally parallel thereto. In some embodiments, the base wall plane 160 is parallel to the support plane 114 when the power head 108 is attached to the container 104. In other embodiments, the base wall plane 160 is normal to the stack axis 122 when the power head 108 is attached to the container 104.
[0048] The housing 146 of the power head 108 also defines a longitudinal midpoint center axis 241 subdividing the power head 108 in half in a front-to-back direction (e.g., the center axis 241 passes through the front wall 156 and back wall 158). The power head 108 also defines a lateral midpoint center axis 240 subdividing the power head 108 in half in a side-to-side direction (e.g., the center axis 240 passes through the pair of side walls 162).
[0049] As shown in FIG. 2, the base wall 154 of the power head 108 forms a second connection interface 172 to which other devices may be releasably attached (e.g., the container 104 or other intermediate stack accessories 130, discussed below). During use, the second connection interface 172 serves to physically align the connected elements (e.g., vertically, horizontally, and rotationally) while also establishing an internal connection region. The internal connection region, in turn, serves as an area where various operable connections (e.g., airflow passage connections, electrical connections, debris passage connections, and the like) may be made and the transfer of material (e.g., air, dust, debris, and the like) may occur within the confines of the assembled vacuum's structure.
[0050] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the housing 146 includes a docking or connection interface 176 configured to allow one or more accessories 214 (e.g., storage containers, tools, bags, pouches, organizers, and the like) to be releasably attached thereto. In some embodiments, the docking interface 176 includes a plurality of individual connection elements or points 180, each configured to form an individual releasable connection with an accessory. In other embodiments, the docking interface 176 includes a docking plate forming a substantially planar exterior surface 184 that, in turn, defines a docking plane 188. In still other embodiments, the docking interface 176 may form all or a portion of the top plate 166 of the housing 146. In the illustrated embodiment, the docking plane 188 is parallel to the support plane 114 and the base wall plane 160. In other embodiments, the docking plane 188 is normal to the stack axis 122.
[0051] In some embodiments, one or more of the individual connection points 180 may include a pocket 192 formed into the exterior surface 184 of the docking interface 176 (i.e., the pocket 192 is recessed into the top plate 166 of the housing 146 and extends inwardly toward the bottom wall 154 below the docking plane 188). In such embodiments, the connection points 180 may also include one or more tabs 196 extending into the pocket 192 at various locations around the perimeter thereof. In some embodiments, the tabs 196 of each pocket 192 are oriented so that an accessory 214 may be slidingly introduced into the pockets 192 via a first direction of insertion A whereby the resulting interlocking interaction between the tabs 196 and the accessory 214 form a releasable connection therebetween (see FIG. 3A). To remove the accessory 214, the user may slide the accessory in a second direction B opposite the first direction of insertion A. In some embodiments, the direction of insertion A and/or the second direction B are parallel to the tabs 196 (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%). In still other embodiments, the first direction of insertion A and/or the second direction B of at least one connection point 180 is parallel (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%) the docking plane 188. In still other embodiments, the orientation of the tabs 196 of at least two connection points 180 are parallel.
[0052] As shown in FIG. 1, the direction of insertion of each connection point 180 is parallel each other such that an accessory being introduced along the first insertion direction A may engage and form a connection with two or more connection points 180 simultaneously. However, in other embodiments, different individual connection points 180 or subsets of connection points 180 may have different insertion directions. In still other embodiments, one or more of the connection points 180 may accommodate two or more directions of insertion.
[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, each connection point 180 is substantially similar in construction so that a common connection element style may interchangeably form a releasable connection with any of the connection points 180 during use. In some embodiments, the connection points 180 are also arranged on the docking interface 176 so that a single accessory may form releasable connections with two or more of the connection points 180 simultaneously (see FIG. 3A). For example, accessory 214 of FIG. 3A forms individual releasable connections with the four connection points 180 in the occupied region 216 simultaneously (discussed below). In other embodiments, one or more of the connection points 180 may lie on the docking plane 188. In still other embodiments, all of the connection points 180 may lie on the docking plane 188.
[0054] While the illustrated connection points 180 include pockets 192 forming a sliding connection, it is understood that in other embodiments different types of connection points 180 forming different styles of connections may be present. Some connections may include, but are not limited to pins, tabs, latches, detents, apertures, protrusions, bayonet fittings, threads, and the like. Furthermore, while all of the illustrated connection points 180 have a similar size and configuration, it is understood that in other embodiments different sizes and/or styles of connection points 180 may be used on a given connection interface 176.
[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the connection points 180 are generally evenly distributed over the entire connection interface 176 forming a rectangular array. Specifically, the connection points 180 are distributed to form two rows positioned along the edges of the connection interface 176 with each row containing four connection points 180 equally distributed along the length of the connection interface 176. In other embodiments, the connection points 180 may be distributed unevenly or in distinct patterns over the connection interface 176. For example, in some embodiments the connection points 180 may be distributed in sub-patterns (e.g., form sub-regions) that, in turn, are distributed about the connection interface 176. In still other embodiments, the points 180 may be distributed in a radial array. In still other embodiments, the points 180 may be distributed in a series of overlaid patterns, with each pattern corresponding to a particular accessory or industry standard connection pattern.
[0056] Together, all of the individual connection points 180 define a connection region 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the connection region 200 includes an enclosed region 200 completely encompassing all connection points 180 (see FIGS. 1 and 3A). Specifically, the enclosed connection region 200 is a rectangular region encompassing all connection points 180 although other regional shapes may be produced.
[0057] The connection interface 176 also includes a handle 204 incorporated therein to allow the user to lift or otherwise manipulate the power head 108 during operation. The handle 204 includes a grip portion 208 that is recessed into the exterior surface 184 of the connection interface 176 so that the entire grip portion 208 is positioned below the docking plane 188 (i.e., is positioned between the docking plane 188 and the bottom wall 154). In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 204 includes a cavity 212 extending into the top plate 166 (i.e., extending inwardly generally toward the bottom wall 154 of the power head 108 away from the docking plane 188), with the grip potion 208 (e.g., a rod or shaft) positioned within the cavity 212 that is also positioned below the docking plane 188 (i.e., between the docking plane 188 and the bottom wall 154). Furthermore, the handle 204 is positioned so that the handle 204 is at least partially positioned within the connection region 200. In some embodiments, the handle 204 is completely positioned within the connection region 200.
[0058] In some embodiments, the handle 204 is positioned such that it intersects at least one of the longitudinal midpoint center axis 241 or the lateral midpoint center axis 240. In other embodiments, the handle 204 is oriented parallel to one of the longitudinal midpoint center axis 241 or the lateral midpoint center axis 240. In still other embodiments, the handle 204 is oriented and positioned both parallel to and aligned with one of the longitudinal midpoint center axis 241 or the lateral midpoint center axis 240. In still other embodiments, the power head 108 defines a power head center of gravity PHCG and a reference axis oriented parallel normal to the docking plane 188 passes through the power head center of gravity PHCG and the handle 204 simultaneously. In still other embodiments, the combined container 102 and power head 108 define a power head/container center of gravity PHCCG and a reference axis oriented parallel normal to the docking plane 188 passes through the power head/container center of gravity PHCCG and the handle 204 simultaneously. In still other embodiments, the handle 204 may be positioned so that it is positioned completely on one side of the longitudinal midpoint center axis 241 and/or the lateral midpoint center axis 240.
[0059] During use, the user may selectively attach and detach one or more accessories 214 to the connection interface 176 by way of the above-described connection points 180 (see FIG. 3A). More specifically, the user may attach the one or more accessories 214 to the connection interface 176 thereby producing one or more occupied regions 216, generally corresponding to the portion of the connection interface 176 that is not accessible due to the presence of the accessories, and one or more unoccupied regions 220, generally corresponding to the portion of the connection interface 176 that remains accessible despite the presence of the accessories. In the illustrated embodiment, the connection interface 176 is configured and the handle 204 positioned so that at least one accessory may be attached to the connection interface 176 such that handle 204 remains at least partially in an unoccupied region 220. In still other embodiments, the connection interface 176 is configured and the handle 204 positioned so that at least one accessory may be attached to the connection interface 176 such that the handle 204 remains completely in an unoccupied region 220 (see FIG. 3A). In still other embodiments, the connection interface 176 is configured and the handle 204 positioned so that at least one accessory 214 may be attached to the connection interface 176 such that the handle is at least partially positioned within an occupied region 216. In still other embodiments, the top plate 166 is configured and the handle 204 positioned so that at least one accessory 214 may be attached to the connection interface 176 such that the handle 204 is completely positioned within an occupied region 216. In still other embodiments, the handle 204 may be positioned so that the handle 204 remains accessible with at least one accessory attached to the connection interface 176. In such embodiments, the handle 204 may also be positioned so that it becomes inaccessible when at least one accessory is attached to the connection interface 176.
[0060] For example, FIG. 3A illustrates a configuration where an accessory 214 is attached to the connection interface 176 such that the handle 204 remains accessible (i.e., is in an unoccupied region 220). In contrast, FIG. 3B illustrates a configuration where two accessories 214 are attached to the connection interface 176 such that the handle 204 is no longer accessible (i.e., the handle is in an occupied region 216).
[0061] As shown in FIG. 4, the front plate 156 of the power head 108 includes an inlet passage 150, one or more battery terminals 224, and a user interface panel 228. The user interface panel 228, in turn, generally includes one or more user inputs (i.e., buttons, displays, touch screens, and the like) to operate the vacuum 100.
[0062] Together, the relative location of the three elements 150, 224, 228 permit the user to access all of the major interactive points of the vacuum 100 from a single location. Specifically, the user may install the vacuum hose 362 into the inlet 150, install the battery packs 236, and control the operation of the vacuum 100 from a single panel 156. Stated differently, the vacuum 100 is configured so that the inlet passage 150, the one or more battery terminals 224, and the user interface panel 228 are all positioned on the same wall. In still other embodiments, the inlet passage 150, the one or more battery terminals 224, and the user interface panel 228 are all positioned on the same half of the vacuum 100 (i.e., each of the inlet passage 150, the one or more battery terminals 224, and the user interface panel 228 are positioned on the same side of a mid-point reference axis 240 subdividing the vacuum 100 geometrically in half).
[0063] The one or more battery terminals 224 of the vacuum 100 are each configured to serve as a location where a given battery pack 236 may be releasably coupled to the vacuum 100 and provide electrical power thereto during use. Each battery terminal 224 includes a mechanical interface 244 that is configured to physically locate and selectively couple the battery pack 236 to the terminal 224, and one or more electrical contacts 248, each configured to form an electrical connection with the battery pack 236 when the battery pack 236 is coupled to the terminal 224. More specifically, the mechanical interface 244 is such that the battery pack 236 is introduced into engagement with and removed from the battery terminal 224 while traveling along a battery docking axis 252 (see FIG. 2). In the illustrated embodiment, the battery terminals 224 are located on the housing 146 so that the terminals 224 are positioned outside the connection region 200.
[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the battery introduction axis 252 is oriented such that it forms a first angle 256 relative to the stack axis 122. More specifically, the battery introduction axis 252 is oriented (i.e., the first angle 256 is sized) so that it is sufficiently angled to allow the user to readily read the battery level indicator on the battery pack 236 when installed on the terminal 224, but also sufficiently vertical so that the vacuum 100 does not roll or otherwise move due to the docking force F applied to the battery pack 236 when being installed in the terminal 22. More specifically, in some embodiments the first angle 256 is approximately 5 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%), 10 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%), 15 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%), and 20 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%). In still other embodiments, the first angle 256 is between 1 degree and 10 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%), between 2 degrees and 10 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%), between 5 degrees and 10 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%), between 5 degrees and 15 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%), between 5 degrees and 20 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%), between 1 degree and 15 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%), between 5 degrees and 15 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%), and between 5 degrees and 20 degrees (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%).
[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the mechanical interface 244 of the battery terminal 224 includes a pair of rails 284 (see FIG. 4) configured to engage with corresponding rails (not shown) of the battery pack 236 to physically locate the battery pack 236 relative to the terminal 224 and a detent 288 configured to be engaged by a latch 292 formed on the battery pack 236 to releasably secure the battery pack 236 to the terminal 224. The rails 284, in turn, are parallel with the battery docking axis 252.
[0066] To install a battery pack 236 on the power head 108, the user first aligns the battery pack 236 with the battery terminal 224 (i.e., aligns the rails of the battery pack 236 with the rails 284 of the terminal 224). The user then introduces the battery pack 236 along the battery docking axis 252 in a first direction C causing the battery pack 236 to engage with the rails 284 of the terminal 224. The user then continues to advance the battery pack 236 along the axis 252 until the latch 292 of the battery pack 236 engages the corresponding detent 288 of the terminal 224. Once engaged, the user the applies a final docking force (F) parallel to the battery docking axis 252 to lock the battery pack 236 in place.
[0067] To remove the battery pack 236, the user actuates (i.e., releases) the latch 292 of the battery pack 236 and begins to withdraw the batter pack 236 from the terminal 224 in a second direction D, opposite direction C, that is parallel to the battery docking axis 252.
[0068] While the illustrated terminal 224 includes rails 284 and a detent 288, it is understood that other forms of connection may be used. For example, a probe and pocket connection, twist-lock connection, and the like may also be used. Furthermore, while the illustrated vacuum 100 includes a single terminal 224 for receiving a single battery pack 236. However, in other embodiments more or fewer terminals 224 may be present. For example in some embodiments the vacuum 100 may include two terminals 224 each incorporated into the front panel 156 (see FIG. 15).
[0069] As shown in FIG. 4, the vacuum 100 also includes a hose rest 260 for storing and retaining the vacuum hose 362 on the vacuum 100. During use, the rest 260 can be adjusted to compensate for different sizes and types of hose 362. More specifically, the rest 260 includes a slide portion 264 and a hook portion 268 extending from the distal end of the slide portion 264. The hook portion 268, in turn, curves upwardly from the slide portion 264 so as to capture and retain the hose 362 against the housing 146 of the head unit 108. While the illustrated rest 260 is shown being attached to the power head 108, it is understood that the rest 260 may also be incorporated into the container 104 or transport assembly 408.
[0070] When assembled, the slide portion 264 is adjustably coupled to the housing 146 of the power head 108 so that the distance between the hook portion 268 and the housing 146 can be adjusted (i.e., the clamping distance 262, see FIG. 5). During use, the user can then slide the hose rest 260 toward the housing 146 (i.e., reducing the effective clamping distance 262 between the hook portion 260 and the housing 146) to accommodate smaller diameter hoses, and slide the hose rest 260 away from the housing 146 (i.e., increasing the effective clamping distance between the hook portion 260 and the housing 146) to accommodate larger diameter hoses. Although not shown, in some embodiments, the rest 260 may also include a biasing member (not shown) to bias the rest 260 toward the housing 146 to produce a form of clamping or retaining pressure on the hose 362 when in place. In still other embodiments, the rest 260 may include a locking mechanism (not shown) to allow the user to secure the rest 260 in a desired position. In still other embodiments, the rest 260 may include a spring-loaded detent to allow the user to move the rest 260 with respect to the housing 146 to have the detent retain the rest 260 in one of a given number of pre-determined locations. The illustrated rest 260 is positioned proximate the back plate 158 of the housing 146.
[0071] As shown in FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 13, the blower assembly 152 of the power head 108 includes a motor 300, a volute 304, and an impeller 306 positioned within the volute 304 and rotatable with respect thereto. During use, electrical power is provided to the motor 300 which, in turn, rotates the impeller 306 relative to the volute 304 generating airflow within the vacuum 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the volute 304 is formed from two halves 308a, 308b that together form the volute-shaped interior volume 312 therebetween. The two halves 308a, 308b, in turn, both form a contact surface 316 that are in physical contact with each other when the two halves 308a, 308b are assembled to form the completed volute 304. Furthermore, the two halves 308a, 308b also include a seal 310 encompassing the interior volume to form an air tight seal about the interior volume 312 of the volute. More specifically, the illustrated embodiment includes a ridge 314 extending outwardly from one half 308a that is sized and shaped to fit within a corresponding groove 318 formed in the opposing half 308b. The resulting fit produces an air-tight seal between the two halves 308a, 308b without the need of any seals, gaskets and the like (see FIG. 13).
[0072] As shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, the vacuum 100 also includes a remote user interface or remote 272 to allow the user to operate the vacuum 100 remotely from the user interface panel 228 incorporated into the power head 108. During use, the remote 272 sends and receives signals with the power head 108 via wireless communications (i.e., Bluetooth and the like). Inputs available to the user may include, but are not limited to, turning on and off the vacuum 100, setting the speed of the vacuum 100, selecting between various operating modes, and the like. The remote 272 may also include one or more outputs providing information to the user such as, but not limited to, the current operating conditions, battery levels, and the like.
[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, the remote user interface 272 includes a substantially rectangular body 276 with one or more buttons 280 included therein. However, in other embodiments more or less elements may be incorporated therein such as LEDs, speakers, microphones, displays, touchscreens, and the like. In the illustrated embodiment, all user inputs 280 (i.e., a mode and a power button) are formed into a single face of the body 276 forming an input surface 350.
[0074] The remote 272 also includes a plurality of mounting elements incorporated therein to allow the remote 272 to be more readily stored and carried during operation of the vacuum 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the remote 272 includes a connection loop 354 extending outwardly from the body 276, and one or more magnets 358 incorporated into the body 276 opposite the input surface 250. The presence of the loop 354 permits the remote 272 to be readily hung (i.e., on a nail, hook, and the like) or attached to lanyard, keychain, and the like. Furthermore, the presence of the magnets 358 allows the remote 272 to be attached to metallic objects like refrigerators, tables, and the like. Still further, the magnets 258 of the remote 272 permit the remote 272 to be incorporated into a wrist strap (not shown).
[0075] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 7-8, the vacuum 100 also includes a vacuum hose 362 that may be releasably coupled to the inlet 150 of the power head 108. Specifically, the vacuum hose 362 is an elongated element having a first end 366 removably couplable to the inlet 150 of the power head 108 and a second or distal end 370 opposite the first end 366. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the hose 362 may be flexible. In other embodiments, all or a portion of the hose 362 may be rigid. In still other embodiments, the hose 362 may be formed as a single piece or include a plurality of individual sub-segments that can be combined in various combinations to produce the desired hose configuration.
[0076] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the distal end 370 of the hose 362 includes a mount 374 for releasably coupling the remote 272 thereto. More specifically, the mount 374 includes a series of tabs or walls 378a, 378b forming a pocket 382 sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the remote 272 therein while allowing the inputs 280 of the input surface 250 of the remote 272 to remain accessible. More specifically, the walls 378 include a pair of side walls 374a and an end wall 274b that together permit the remote 272 to be introduced into the pocket 382 in a direction parallel to the axis of the hose 362 (see FIG. 7). In the illustrated embodiment, the mount 374 also includes a recess 382 formed into the end wall 274b to allow a user to more easily access the remote 272 and bias the remote 272 out of the pocket 382.
[0077] As shown in FIG. 8, the mount 274 also includes a retention mechanism 386 to secure the remote 272 within the mount 274. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention mechanism 386 includes a resilient detent 390 that is sized and shaped to resiliently engage the remote 272 and restrict its removal from the pocket 382. Specifically, the detent 390 includes a locking lug 394 that is sized and shaped to be received within the connection loop 354 of the remote 272. Furthermore, the illustrated retention mechanism the retention mechanism 386 is formed from a ferrous metallic materials so that the magnets 358 within the remote 272 supplement the retention strength of the mount 274.
[0078] FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate another embodiment of the distal end 370 of the hose 362. The distal end 370 is substantially similar to the distal end 370 discussed above so only the differences will be discussed in detail herein. The distal end 370 includes a storage mount 400 configured to allow the distal end 370 to be removably secured to the hose rest 260. Specifically, the storage mount 400 includes a loop or bracket that encloses an aperture 404 therein that is sized so that the hook portion 268 of the hose rest 260 may be received therein (see FIG. 16B).
[0079] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate a transport support 408 for use with the vacuum assembly 100. Specifically, the transport support 408 is configured to provide conveyance for the vacuum assembly 100 over a support surface (i.e., a floor and the like). The support 408 includes a frame 412 forming a pocket 416 sized to receive at least a portion of the container 104 therein (see FIG. 1), and a set of wheels or casters 420 attached to the frame 412.
[0080] As shown in FIG. 9, the support 408 also includes a foot pad 424 incorporated into the frame 412 to allow the user to steady the support 408 with his or her feet when operating the vacuum assembly 100 itself. In the illustrated embodiment, the foot pad 424 is integrated into the frame 412 itself although alternative pads 424 may be separately formed and coupled to the frame 412.
[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the support 408 includes a pair of pads 424 on opposite sides thereof, where ach pad 424 is incorporated into the side of the frame 412 between adjacent wheels 420. More specifically, the pad 424 is positioned so that a vertically oriented reference plane passing through two of the wheels 420 of the support 408 will also pass through the pad 424 itself. As such, the pad 424 is positioned so that it will not generate a large tipping moment about the wheels 420, to avoid the chance of tipping over the vacuum 100 when the user is applying pressure to the pad 424 with his or her foot.
[0082] As shown in FIG. 10, the pad 424 is also oriented so that it is angled relative to the underlying support surface (i.e., is oblique to the support plane 114). More specifically, the pad 424 is oriented outwardly such that the outward edge 428a is vertically lower than the inward edge 428b with the surface of the pad 424 forming an acute angle 432 with the support plane 114.
[0083] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 11A-11D, the vacuum assembly 100 also includes a series of indicia 450a-d configured to aid the user in assembling the final vacuum assembly 100. Specifically, the indicia 450a-d includes a schematic view or image of the vacuum assembly 100 itself generally depicting a top or power head layer 454, a middle or intermediate layer 458, a bottom or container layer 462, and a transport layer 466. The indicia depicts each of these layers 454, 458, 462, 466 in their relative position within a completely assembled vacuum stack (see FIGS. 11A-11D). Within this image, the indicia is further configured to highlight the layer that corresponds with the layer to which the item the indicia is affixed should be installed. For example, the indicia 450a of FIG. 11A is configured to use on a power head 108 and therefore has the power head layer 454 highlighted in the image. Furthermore, the indicia 450b of FIG. 11B is configured for use on a stack accessory 130 and therefore has the intermediate layer 458 highlighted in the image. Still further, the indicia 450c of FIG. 11C is configured for use on a container 104 and therefore has the container layer 462 highlighted in the image. Finally, the indicia 450d of FIG. 11D is configured for use on a transport assembly 408 and therefore has the transport layer highlighted in the image.
[0084] As shown in FIG. 14 the vacuum assembly 100 may also include a color scheme to assist the user in operating the device. Specifically, the vacuum 100 includes a primary color (i.e., red) covering the device generally and an accent color (i.e., black). Specifically, the accent color is applied to the device such that items configured for manipulation or use by the user are colored in the accent color. Such items may include, but are not limited to, the inlet 150, the latches 142, the docking interface 176, hose rest 260, and the like. [0085] Clause 1. A vacuum cleaner comprising: a container defining a container volume therein; and a power head removably couplable to the container, the power head including a blower assembly configured to draw dust and debris into the container volume, wherein the power head includes a panel defining a panel plane, wherein the panel includes a handle recessed into the panel below the panel plane, and wherein the panel includes one or more connection points configured to allow accessories to be releasably attached to the panel. [0086] Clause 2. The vacuum cleaner of clause 1, wherein the panel is a top panel, and wherein the handle is positioned below the panel plane. [0087] Clause 3. The vacuum cleaner of clause 1, wherein the handle includes a recess formed into the panel and a grip portion positioned within the recess. [0088] Clause 4. The vacuum cleaner of clause 1, wherein the one or more connection points define a connection region, and wherein the handle is at least partially positioned within the connection region. [0089] Clause 5. The vacuum cleaner of clause 4, where the handle is completely positioned within the connection region. [0090] Clause 6. The vacuum cleaner of clause 1, wherein attaching an accessory to the panel forms an occupied region and an unoccupied region, and wherein the handle is positioned such that at least one accessory may be attached to the panel with the handle being at least partially in the unoccupied region. [0091] Clause 7. The vacuum cleaner of cleaner of clause 1, wherein the one or more connection point includes a pocked formed into the panel with at least one tab extending into the pocket from the perimeter thereof. [0092] Clause 8. The vacuum cleaner of clause 1, wherein the vacuum cleaner includes a support plane and a stack axis normal to the support plane, and wherein the panel plane is normal to the stack axis. [0093] Clause 9. A vacuum cleaner comprising: a container at least partially defining a container volume therein; a power head removably coupled to the container to at least partially enclose the container volume therebetween, wherein the power head includes a blower assembly, and wherein the power head includes a battery terminal defining an insertion axis; and wherein the vacuum cleaner defines a stack axis normal to the support plane, wherein the insertion axis defines a first angle with respect to the stack axis, and wherein the first angle is between 5 and 20 degrees. [0094] Clause 10. The vacuum cleaner of clause 9, wherein the container includes a base wall and at least one side wall extending from the base wall to define an open end, and wherein the base wall is normal to the stack axis. [0095] Clause 11. The vacuum cleaner of clause 9, wherein the power head includes a base wall and at least one side wall extending from the base wall, and wherein the base wall is normal to the stack axis. [0096] Clause 12. The vacuum cleaner of clause 9, wherein the battery terminal includes a pair of rails, and wherein the rails are parallel to the insertion axis. [0097] Clause 13. The vacuum cleaner of clause 9, wherein the vacuum defines a support plane, and wherein the stack axis is normal to the support plane. [0098] Clause 14. A vacuum cleaner comprising: a container at least partially defining a container volume therein; a power head removably coupled to the container, wherein the power head includes a blower assembly; a remote user interface configured to send and receive signals to the power head; and a vacuum hose, wherein the vacuum hose includes a first end removably attachable to one of the container and the power head and a second end opposite the first end, and wherein the second end includes mount defining a pocket sized to receive at least a portion of the remote user interface therein. [0099] Clause 15. The vacuum of clause 14, wherein the mount includes a spring detent configured to engage the remote user interface when at least partially positioned within the mount. [0100] Clause 16. The vacuum of clause 14, wherein the spring detent is made of a ferrous material and wherein the remote user interface includes at least one magnet therein. [0101] Clause 17. The vacuum of clause 14, wherein the remote user interface includes at least one of a connection loop and a magnet. [0102] Clause 18. The vacuum of clause 14, wherein the remote user interface includes one or more buttons formed into an input surface, and wherein the mount is configured so that the remote user interface may be fixedly coupled to the distal end of the hose while allowing access to the input surface. [0103] Clause 19. A vacuum assembly comprising: a container at least partially defining a container volume therein; a power head removably couplable to the container and including a blower assembly; and a transport support, wherein the transport support includes a frame that forms a pocket sized to receive at least a portion of the container therein, wherein the transport support includes a plurality of wheels attached thereto, and wherein the transport support includes a foot pad formed therein. [0104] Clause 20. The vacuum assembly of clause 19, wherein the footpad is positioned such that a vertical plane extending between two of the plurality of wheels will pass through the footpad.
