CLEANING DEVICE

Abstract

There is provided a cleaning device comprising a shaft with a proximal portion and a distal portion. The device comprises a sweeping mechanism comprising a bristle head and a set of bristles attached to the bristle head, the bristle head coupled to a distal end of the distal portion. The device comprises a suction mechanism comprising a suction head disposed adjacent the distal end of the distal portion. The device comprises a switching mechanism operable to control displacement of the bristle head and the set of bristles relative to the suction head between their extended state and their retracted state. The displacement of the bristle head and the set of bristles between their extended state and their retracted state selectively positions the set of bristles to cover or expose the suction head respectively, thereby enabling operation of the device in a sweeping mode or a vacuuming mode respectively.

Claims

1. A cleaning device comprising: a shaft comprising a proximal portion and a distal portion; a sweeping mechanism comprising a bristle head and a set of bristles attached to the bristle head, the bristle head coupled to a distal end of the distal portion of the shaft; a suction mechanism comprising a suction head being disposed adjacent the distal end of the distal portion of the shaft; and a switching mechanism operable to control displacement of the bristle head and the set of bristles relative to the suction head between their extended state and their retracted state, wherein displacement of the bristle head and the set of bristles between their extended state and their retracted state selectively positions the set of bristles to cover or expose the suction head respectively, thereby enabling operation of the cleaning device in a sweeping mode or a vacuuming mode respectively.

2. The cleaning device of claim 1, wherein in the extended state the set of bristles protrudes distally beyond the suction head along a longitudinal axis of the shaft, thereby enabling operation of the cleaning device in the sweeping mode.

3. The cleaning device of claim 1, wherein in the retracted state the suction head protrudes distally beyond the set of bristles along a longitudinal axis of the shaft, thereby enabling operation of the cleaning device in the vacuuming mode.

4. The cleaning device of claim 1, wherein the switching mechanism comprises a lock operable to selectively fix a position of the bristle head and the set of bristles relative to the suction head.

5. The cleaning device of claim 1, wherein the suction mechanism comprises a motor and a debris chamber, the suction mechanism being operable to generate suction through operation of the motor to suck debris via an intake opening of the suction head into the debris chamber.

6. The cleaning device of claim 5, wherein the debris chamber is detachably coupled to the shaft.

7. The cleaning device of claim 5, wherein the suction mechanism comprises a filter disposed within the debris chamber, a battery configured to power the motor, and one or more conduits extending between the suction head and the debris chamber.

8. The cleaning device of claim 1, wherein the switching mechanism is defined by the proximal portion and the distal portion, the distal portion being telescopically displaceable relative to the proximal portion along a longitudinal axis of the shaft between an extended state and a retracted state.

9. The cleaning device of claim 8, wherein displacement of the distal portion between its extended state and its retracted state relative to the proximal portion causes corresponding displacement of the bristle head and the set of bristles relative to the suction head between their extended state and their retracted state.

10. A cleaning device operable selectively in a sweeping mode and in a vacuuming mode, the cleaning device comprising: a switching mechanism operable to facilitate switching of the cleaning device between the sweeping mode and the vacuuming mode, the switching mechanism defined by a shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion, the distal portion being slidably displaceable between its extended state and its retracted state relative to the proximal portion along a longitudinal axis of the shaft; a suction mechanism comprising a motor and a suction head, the suction mechanism being operable to generate suction through operation of the motor to suck debris via the suction head; and a sweeping mechanism comprising a bristle head and a set of bristles attached to the bristle head, the bristle head coupled to the distal portion of the shaft so as to displace, along with the set of bristles, between their raised state and their lowered state relative to the suction head simultaneously with the distal portion, wherein in the vacuuming mode, the distal portion is in its retracted state relative to the proximal portion, the bristle head and the set of bristles are in their retracted state relative to the suction head, and the suction head protrudes distally to a greater extent relative to a position of the set of bristles to be exposed for operation, and wherein in the sweeping mode, the distal portion is in its extended state relative to the proximal portion, the bristle head and the set of bristles are in their extended state relative to the suction head, and the set of bristles protrude distally to a greater extent relative to a position of the suction head to cover the suction head.

11. The cleaning device of claim 10, wherein the suction head is fixed relative to the proximal portion of the shaft.

12. The cleaning device of claim 10, wherein the switching mechanism comprises a lock operable to lock and unlock the switching mechanism to respectively prevent and allow sliding displacement of the distal portion relative to the proximal portion.

13. The cleaning device of claim 10, wherein the suction mechanism comprises a filter disposed within the debris chamber, a battery configured to power the motor, and one or more conduits extending between the suction head and the debris chamber.

14. The cleaning device of claim 10, wherein the proximal portion defines a proximal end and the distal portion defines a distal end, a distance between the proximal end and the distal end defining a length of the shaft.

15. The cleaning device of claim 14, wherein the length of the shaft is adjustable, wherein the length of the shaft when the cleaning device is in the sweeping mode is greater than the length of the shaft when the cleaning device is in the vacuuming mode.

16. The cleaning device of claim 10, comprising a handle covering at least partially the proximal portion of the shaft.

17. The cleaning device of claim 10, wherein the set of bristles are detachably coupled at one of their ends to an interior of the bristle head.

18. The cleaning device of claim 10, wherein the suction mechanism comprises an activation switch operable to switch the suction mechanism from an active state to an inactive state to respectively activate and deactivate the suction mechanism.

19. The cleaning device of claim 10, wherein suction mechanism is operable to automatically deactivate upon switching of the cleaning device from the vacuuming mode to the sweeping mode.

20. A cleaning device operable selectively in a sweeping mode and in a vacuuming mode, the cleaning device comprising: a shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion, the distal portion being slidably displaceable between its extended state and its retracted state relative to the proximal portion along a longitudinal axis of the shaft; a suction head fixed in position relative to the proximal portion of the shaft; a motor operable to generate suction to suck debris via the suction head; and a bristle head and a set of bristles attached to the bristle head, the bristle head coupled to the distal portion of the shaft so as to displace, along with the set of bristles, between their raised state and their lowered state relative to the suction head simultaneously with the distal portion; wherein in the vacuuming mode, the distal portion is in its retracted state relative to the proximal portion, the bristle head and the set of bristles are in their retracted state relative to the suction head, and the suction head protrudes distally to a greater extent relative to a position of the set of bristles to be exposed for operation, and wherein in the sweeping mode, the distal portion is in its extended state relative to the proximal portion, the bristle head and the set of bristles are in their extended state relative to the suction head, and the set of bristles protrude distally to a greater extent relative to a position of the suction head to cover the suction head.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] The preferred embodiments of the invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings provided to illustrate and not to limit the invention, where like designations denote like elements, and in which:

[0049] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cleaning device, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the cleaning device of FIG. 1, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of the cleaning device with a sweeping mechanism in a raised state and a suction mechanism in an active state, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic view of interior of the cleaning device with the sweeping mechanism in a lowered state and a suction mechanism in an inactive state, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic view of interior of the cleaning device with the sweeping mechanism in a raised state and a suction mechanism in an active state, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention

[0054] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a cleaning device in a sweeping mode, in accordance with another non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the cleaning device in a vacuuming mode, in accordance with another non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] FIG. 8A illustrates a side view of the cleaning device of FIG. 6, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] FIG. 8B illustrates a front view of the cleaning device of FIG. 6, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] FIG. 9A illustrates a side view of the cleaning device of FIG. 7, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; and

[0059] FIG. 9B illustrates a front view of the cleaning device of FIG. 7, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word exemplary or illustrative means serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any implementation described herein as exemplary or illustrative is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. All of the embodiments described below are exemplary embodiments provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms upper, lower, left, rear, right, front, vertical, horizontal, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in the drawings. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0062] In the following description, certain specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that embodiments may be practiced without one or more of these specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and the like. In other instances, well-known elements associated with vacuum cleaners and/or brooms have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring descriptions of the embodiments.

[0063] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims which follow, the word comprise and variations thereof, such as, comprises and comprising are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense, that is, as including, but not limited to.

[0064] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms a, an, and the include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise, and the vice versa. It should also be noted that the term or is generally employed in its broadest sense, that is, as meaning and/or unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0065] The headings and Abstract of the Disclosure provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.

[0066] The present invention relates to a cleaning device that combines the functions of a broom and a vacuum cleaner. Specifically, the cleaning device integrates mechanical and electrical components that allow for seamless switching between sweeping and vacuuming modes, offering enhanced convenience and efficiency in cleaning operations. The cleaning device may be referred to as Braccum in portions of this disclosure or elsewhere.

[0067] Referring initially to FIGS. 1-2, the cleaning device 100 is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the cleaning device 100. FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the cleaning device 100.

[0068] The cleaning device 100 comprises a shaft 102 configured to be held by a user. The shaft 102 may be made of suitable material that provides durability and enables the shaft 102 to serve as a central structure of the cleaning device 100. The shaft 102 may be configured to support the mechanical and electronic components of the cleaning device 100 while providing stability during use.

[0069] In an embodiment, the shaft 102 may have a hollow body so as to enable the shaft 102 to accommodate one or more components within the hollow body. In an embodiment, one or more portions of the shaft 102 may be hollow while one or more portions of the shaft 102 may be provided with passages for accommodating various components of the cleaning device 100.

[0070] The shaft 102 may comprise a first end 104 and a second end 106. The first end 104 may refer to the end closer to a user while the cleaning device 100 is in use while the second end 106 may refer to the end closer to a surface to be cleaned (e.g., ground) while the cleaning device 100 is in use. The shaft 102 may extend between the first end 104 and the second end 106. Although the shaft 102 is depicted as a straight shaft, in other embodiments, the shaft 102 may be curved, angled, or may have other configuration without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0071] At the first end 104, the cleaning device 100 may comprise a push button 108. The push button 108 may be configured to be pushed by a user, as depicted by arrow A. Once pushed, the push button 108 may return to the position as depicted in FIG. 1. Thus, the push button 108 may be understood as a retractable button which return to its position once the pushing force applied by the user on the push button 108 is removed. The push button 108 may be configured to allow the cleaning device 100 to switch between different operational modes, such as sweeping mode and vacuuming mode, as will be detailed further below.

[0072] The cleaning device 100 may further comprise a debris chamber 110. The debris chamber 110 may be a compartment where dirt and debris can be collected during vacuuming process. For instance, dirt and debris sucked by the cleaning device 100 may be collected in the debris chamber 110. In an embodiment, the debris chamber 110 may be removable coupled with the shaft 102. The debris chamber 110 may be removed from attached from the shaft 102 for cleaning purposes. In another embodiment, the debris chamber 110 may have an access opening for emptying the contents of the debris chamber 110 after use.

[0073] The cleaning device 100 may further comprise a motor 112. In an embodiment, the motor 112 may be located within a compartment attached to the shaft 102. The motor 112 may be configured to provide suction force to a suction mechanism of the cleaning device 100 for vacuuming purpose. i.e., to draw dirt and debris from the ground to the debris chamber 110.

[0074] In an embodiment, the motor 112 may be disposed adjacent the debris chamber 110. In an embodiment, the debris chamber 110 and the motor 112 may be positioned closer to the first end 104 of the shaft 102. For instance, the debris chamber 110 and the motor 112 may be positioned around a central area between the first end 104 and a mid-point of the shaft 102.

[0075] The cleaning device 100 may be configured to be used in a sweeping mode and a vacuuming mode. The cleaning device 100 may comprise a sweeping mechanism for use during the sweeping mode and a suction mechanism for use during the vacuuming mode.

[0076] The sweeping mechanism may comprise a bristle head 120 with a set of bristles 122 attached thereto. The set of bristles 122 may be utilized in the sweeping mode to effectively gather debris when the cleaning device 100 is moved over the ground.

[0077] The bristle head 120 may be coupled to a rotating arm 124, forming a part of the sweeping mechanism. The connection between the bristle head 120 and the rotating arm 124 may be a pivotable connection provided via a first pivot pin 126, in that, the bristle head 120 may be pivotable with respect to the rotating arm 124 about the first pivot pin 126.

[0078] The rotating arm 124 may further be coupled with the shaft 102. The connection between the rotating arm 124 and the shaft 102 may be a pivotable connection provided via a second pivot pin 128. The rotating arm 124 may thus be pivotable with respect to the shaft 102 about the second pivot pin 128, as depicted by arrow B.

[0079] The rotating arm 124 may further be displaceable with respect to the shaft 102. The shaft 102 may comprise a slot 105 adjacent the second end 106 thereof. The rotating arm 124 may be coupled to the shaft 102 at the slot 105 by means of the second pivot pin 128, such that, the slot 105 enables sliding movement of the rotating arm 124 with respect to the shaft 102, as depicted by arrow C. The second pivot pin 128 may slide within the slot 105 between the limiting positions defined by the ends of the slot 105, and thus, the rotating arm 124 may slide with respect to the shaft 102.

[0080] The slot 105 may include a first limiting end 105a and the second limiting end 105b. When the second pivot pin 128 is at the first limiting end 105a, the sweeping mechanism may be at a raised state. The raised state is depicted in FIG. 3. When the second pivot pin 128 is at the second limiting end 105b, the sweeping mechanism may be at a lowered state.

[0081] In the lowered state, as depicted in FIG. 1, the bristle head 120 and the set of bristles 122 may face the ground so as to enable sweeping of the ground for cleaning purposes. Thus, in the lowered state of the sweeping mechanism, the cleaning device 100 can be used in the sweeping mode thereof.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 3, the suction mechanism may comprise the debris chamber 110, the motor 112, as well as a suction chamber 116. As depicted, the suction chamber 116 may be disposed at the second end 106 of the shaft 102. In an embodiment, the suction chamber 116 may be moveable into and out of the shaft 102, in that, the suction chamber 116 may have a retracted state in which the suction chamber 116 is within the shaft 102 and an extended state in which the suction chamber 116 is extending from the second end 106 of the shaft 102. FIG. 3 depicts the suction chamber 116 in the extended state while the sweeping mechanism is in the raised state.

[0083] In an embodiment, the suction mechanism may further comprise a battery, a control unit, and wirings to enable the cleaning device 100 to operate in the vacuuming mode. The control unit may be configured to manage the operation of various components of the cleaning device 100.

[0084] In an embodiment, the battery may be a rechargeable battery that powers the motor and the control unit. In an embodiment, the battery may be housed within the motor housing or the shaft. A charging port may be provided to charge the battery. The wiring may connect the battery, the push button, the motor, the control unit, etc. for proper transmission of power and control signals.

[0085] In an embodiment, the cleaning device 100 may further comprise an air filter to trap fine dust particles and prevent them from re-entering the environment. The air filter may be removable for cleaning or replacement. In an embodiment, the cleaning device 100 may further comprise indicator lights to provide visual status on the operational status of the cleaning device 100, such as battery level and/or mode activation.

[0086] The motor 112 may be connected to a fan which spins when the motor is powered on. The rotation of the fan may create a low-pressure area within the shaft 102 since the spinning fan may force air outside the motor housing. To balance the air pressure, air from suction chamber 116 may enter into the shaft 102, bringing with it dirt, dust, and debris from the ground being cleared. The suction chamber 116 may be connected to the debris chamber 110 via a channel to allow the incoming air flow from the ground to be directed from the suction chamber 116 to the debris chamber 110.

[0087] As described above, the push button 108 may be pressed by a user to switch the cleaning device 100 between the sweeping mode and the vacuuming mode. Initially, the sweeping mechanism (such as, the bristle head 120 and the set of bristles 122) are in the lowered state while the suction mechanism is in an inactive state (the suction chamber 116 is in the retracted state and the motor 112 is turned off). When the push button 108 is pressed, the sweeping mechanism is shifted to the raised state by virtue of the rotating arm 124 sliding over the slot 105, the rotating arm 124 pivoting about the second pivot pin 128, and the bristle head 120 pivoting about the first pivot pin 126. This configuration is depicted in FIG. 3.

[0088] Further, when the push button 108 is pressed, the suction mechanism is switched from the inactive state to an active state, in that, the motor 112 is activated and the suction chamber 116 is shifted to the extended state in which the suction chamber 116 extends from the second end 106 of the shaft 102, as depicted by arrow D. As a result, the cleaning device 100 can be operated in the vacuuming mode in which air flow (along with dust, dirt, and debris) is directed into the suction chamber 116, through the shaft 102, and into the debris chamber 110, as depicted by arrows E.

[0089] In an embodiment, the push button 108 may be associated with a spring mechanism configured to allow switching of the cleaning device 100 between the sweeping modes and the vacuuming modes. The push button 108 may further act as a switch to turn on and turn off the motor 112.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 4-5, schematic diagrams of the interior of the cleaning device 100 are depicted. FIG. 4 illustrates the cleaning device 100 in the sweeping mode while FIG. 5 illustrates the cleaning device 100 in the vacuuming mode.

[0091] When the cleaning device 100 is in the sweeping mode, the sweeping mechanism is in the lowered state. The set of bristles 122 along with the bristle head 120 face the ground so as to enable a user to sweep the ground using the set of bristles 122. The rotating arm 124 is positioned such that the second pivot pin 128 is at the second limiting end 105b of the slot 105.

[0092] When the cleaning device 100 has been utilized in the sweeping mode, the cleaning device 100 can be shifted to the vacuuming mode. The push button 108 can be pressed by the user, as depicted in FIG. 5. As described above, the push button 108 may be associated with a spring mechanism 130. The pressing of the push button 108 activates the spring mechanism 130 such that the second pivot pin 128 along with the rotating arm 124 slides along the slot 105 to the first limiting end 105a of the slot 105. Arrow F depicts the activation of the spring mechanism. Further, the rotating arm 124 pivots about the second pivot pin 128 while the bristle head 120 pivots about the first pivot pin 126. The sweeping mechanism including the rotating arm 124, the bristle head 120, and the set of bristles are thus in the raised state, as depicted in FIG. 5.

[0093] Further, by action of the spring mechanism 130 due to pressing of the push button 108, the suction mechanism is activated. The suction mechanism is switched from the inactive state to the active state. The suction chamber 116 is shifted from the retracted state (as in FIG. 4) to the extended state (as in FIG. 5) in which the suction chamber 116 extends from the second end 106 of the shaft 102. The motor 112 is also turned on. The suction mechanism including the suction chamber 116, the motor 112, and the debris chamber 110 can now be used with the cleaning device 100 in the vacuuming mode.

[0094] The motor causes vacuum within the shaft 102 such that airflow (arrows E) flows into the shaft 102 via the suction chamber 116, taking with it the dirt, dust, and debris on the ground. The airflow carries the dirt, dust, and debris to the debris chamber 110. Once the operation of the cleaning device 100 is completed in the vacuuming mode, the cleaning device 100 can be switched to the sweeping mode by pressing the push button 108. The suction mechanism is deactivated, in that, the suction chamber 116 is shifted to the retracted state within the shaft 102 and the motor 112 is turned off.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 6, 7, 8A-8B, and 9A-9B, a cleaning device 200 is depicted in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the cleaning device 200 in its sweeping mode. FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the cleaning device 200 in its vacuuming mode. FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a side view and a front view respectively of the cleaning device 200 of FIG. 6. FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate a side view and a front view respectively of the cleaning device 200 of FIG. 7.

[0096] The cleaning device 200 may comprise a shaft 202 configured to be held by a user during use of the cleaning device 200. The shaft 202 may be made of suitable material that provides durability and enables the shaft 202 to serve as a central structure of the cleaning device 200. The shaft 202 may be configured to support the mechanical and electronic components of the cleaning device 200 while providing stability during use.

[0097] In an embodiment, the shaft 202 may have a hollow body so as to enable the shaft 202 to accommodate one or more components within the hollow body. In an embodiment, one or more portions of the shaft 202 may be hollow while one or more portions of the shaft 202 may be provided with passages for accommodating various components of the cleaning device 200.

[0098] The shaft 202 may comprise a proximal portion 204 having a proximal end 204a of the shaft 202. The shaft 202 may comprise a distal portion 206 having a distal end 206a of the shaft 202. The shaft 202 may extend between the proximal end 204a and the distal end 206a along a longitudinal axis X1, a distance between the proximal end 204a and the distal end 206a defining a length of the shaft 202.

[0099] The proximal end 204a may refer to the end closer to a user while the cleaning device 200 is in use while the distal end 206a may refer to the end closer to a surface to be cleaned (e.g., ground) while the cleaning device 200 is in use. Although the shaft 202 is depicted as a straight shaft, in other embodiments, the shaft 202 may be curved, angled, or may have other configuration without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0100] The cleaning device 200 may comprise a handle 207 covering at least partially the proximal portion 204 of the shaft 202. The handle 207 may act as a covering for the proximal portion 204, partially or fully, to enable a user to hold and use the cleaning device 200.

[0101] The cleaning device 200 may comprise a debris chamber 210. The debris chamber 210 may be a compartment where dirt and debris can be collected during vacuuming process. For instance, dirt and debris sucked by the cleaning device 200 may be collected in the debris chamber 210. In an embodiment, the debris chamber 210 may be removably coupled with the handle 207. In an embodiment, the debris chamber 210 may be removably coupled with the shaft 202. The debris chamber 210 may be removed from attached from the shaft 202 for cleaning purposes. In another embodiment, the debris chamber 210 may have an access opening for emptying the contents of the debris chamber 210 after use.

[0102] The cleaning device 200 may comprise a motor 212. In an embodiment, the motor 212 may be located within a compartment attached to the shaft 202. The motor 212 may be configured to provide suction force to a suction mechanism of the cleaning device 200 for vacuuming purpose. i.e., to draw dirt and debris from the ground to the debris chamber 210.

[0103] In an embodiment, the motor 212 may be disposed adjacent the debris chamber 210. In an embodiment, the debris chamber 210 and the motor 212 may be positioned at the proximal portion 204 of the shaft 202, i.e., close to the proximal end 204a of the shaft 202. For instance, the debris chamber 210 and the motor 212 may be positioned between the proximal end 204a and a mid-point of the shaft 202.

[0104] The cleaning device 200 may be configured to be used in a sweeping mode and a vacuuming mode. The cleaning device 200 may comprise a sweeping mechanism for use during the sweeping mode and a suction mechanism for use during the vacuuming mode. The cleaning device 200 may be operable to switch between different operational modes, such as the sweeping mode and the vacuuming mode, as will be detailed further below.

[0105] The sweeping mechanism may comprise a bristle head 220 with a set of bristles 222 attached thereto and projecting outwardly (distally) from the bristle head 220 in a direction along the longitudinal axis X1. The set of bristles 222 may be utilized in the sweeping mode to effectively gather debris when the cleaning device 200 is moved over or in contact with the ground. The bristle head 220 may define a housing for the set of bristles 222. In an embodiment, the set of bristles 222 may be fixedly coupled at one of their ends to an interior of the bristle head 220. In an embodiment, the set of bristles 222 may be detachably coupled at one of their ends to an interior of the bristle head 220, allowing some of the set of bristles 222 or the entirety of the set of bristles 222 to be removed from the bristle head 220, e.g., for replacement with a new set of bristles.

[0106] The bristle head 220 may be fabricated from a durable polymeric, metallic, or composite material. The bristle head 220 may include one or more internal openings configured to enable one or more components of the suction mechanism to pass thereto. The set of bristles 222 may include a plurality of individual bristles arranged in one or more rows or patterns. The bristles may be of uniform or varying length, stiffness, or material composition to facilitate different cleaning effects. The bristles may be formed of synthetic fibers, natural fibers, metallic filaments, or combinations thereof.

[0107] The bristle head 220 and thereby the set of bristles 222 may be coupled to the distal end 206a of the shaft 202. In an embodiment, the bristle head 220 may be fixedly coupled with the distal end 206a of the shaft 202. In an embodiment, the coupling of the bristle head 220 with the distal end 206a may be realized through various interfaces, such as, threaded coupling, slide and lock grooves, magnetic coupling, clamping, etc.

[0108] The sweeping mechanism comprising the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222 may be displaceable between an extended state and a retracted state, as will be described further below.

[0109] The suction mechanism may comprise the debris chamber 210, the motor 212, as well as a suction head 216. The suction mechanism may be operable to generate a negative pressure for drawing debris, dust, and particulate matter from a surface (e.g., ground) into the debris chamber 210. The suction mechanism may further comprise a battery, a control unit, one or more conduits, and wirings, positioned internally in the cleaning device 200, to enable the cleaning device 200 to operate in the vacuuming mode. The suction mechanism may further comprise an activation switch 213 operable to switch the suction mechanism from an active state to an inactive state, i.e., activate and deactivate the suction mechanism (e.g., the motor and battery) to selectively use the device 200 in the vacuuming mode. The control unit may be configured to manage the operation of various components of the cleaning device 200.

[0110] In an embodiment, the suction head 216 may be disposed relative to the distal end 206a of the shaft 202. The suction head 216 may be disposed adjacent to the distal end 206a of the shaft 202. The suction head 216 may extend distally relative to the distal end 206a in a direction along the longitudinal axis X1. In an embodiment, at least the distal portion 206 of the shaft 202 may be slidable relative to the suction head 216 such that the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222 (sweeping mechanism) is displaceable relative to the suction head 216 between the extended state and the retracted state, as will be described in detail further below.

[0111] The suction head 216 may define an intake opening 216a at a distal end thereof. When in use, the intake opening 216a may be positioned adjacent to the surface to be cleaned. The suction head 216 may be fluidly connected to the debris chamber via the one or more conduits extending between the suction head 216 and the debris chamber 210. In the vacuuming mode, debris drawn in through the intake opening 216a may be conveyed towards the debris chamber 210. In an embodiment, the one or more conduits may pass through corresponding openings formed in the bristle head 220.

[0112] In an embodiment, the battery may be a rechargeable battery that powers the motor and the control unit. In an embodiment, the battery may be housed within the housing of the motor 212 or the shaft 202. A charging port may be provided to charge the battery. The wiring may connect the battery, the motor, the control unit, the activation switch 213, etc. for proper transmission of power and control signals.

[0113] In an embodiment, the cleaning device 200 may further comprise an air filter to trap fine dust particles and prevent them from re-entering the environment. The air filter may be removable for cleaning or replacement. In an embodiment, the cleaning device 200 may further comprise indicator lights to provide visual status on the operational status of the cleaning device 200, such as battery level and/or mode activation. In an embodiment, the control unit may control the motor 212 to adjust the operational parameters of the device 200 in the vacuuming mode (e.g., suction power). In an embodiment, the device 200 may include user-operable controls, such as buttons, dials, or a touchscreen interface, for manually adjusting the operational parameters.

[0114] In operation during the vacuuming mode, the activation switch 213 may be actuated by a user to activate (power on) or deactivate (power off) the motor 212, thereby controlling the vacuum functionality of the cleaning device 200. When the motor 212 is powered on, the motor 212 may be connected to the fan which spins, the rotation of the fan creating a low-pressure area within the conduits and the suction head 216. In an embodiment, the spinning fan may force air outside to the ambient through the housing of the motor 212 (e.g., via vents). To balance the air pressure, air from suction head 216 and the intake opening 216a may enter into the conduits, bringing with it dirt, dust, and debris from the surface being cleared.

[0115] As described above, the cleaning device 200 may operate selectively in its sweeping mode and in its vacuuming mode. The cleaning device 200 may switch between the sweeping mode and the vacuuming mode. The cleaning device 200 may include a switching mechanism configured to facilitate switching of the cleaning device 200 between the sweeping mode and the vacuuming mode. The switching mechanism may be operable to cause displacement of the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222 (sweeping mechanism) relative to the suction head 216.

[0116] In an embodiment, the shaft 202 comprising the proximal portion 204 and the distal portion 206 may define the switching mechanism. The distal portion 206 may be telescopically coupled with the proximal portion 204, in that, the distal portion 206 may be displaced slidingly relative to the proximal portion 204 along the longitudinal axis X1 between an extended state and a retracted state, and optionally, intermediate states. The shaft 202 may comprise concentrically arranged tubes defining the proximal portion 204 and the distal portion 206. The proximal portion 204 may define a hollow outer tube, and the distal portion 206 may define an inner tube slidably received within the outer tube.

[0117] The switching mechanism may further include a lock 209 configured to fix a state (position) of the distal portion 206 relative to the proximal portion 204. The lock may include one or more of a twist-lock collar, a spring-loaded pin detent, or a push-button latch. In operation, the user may actuate the lock 209 to lock and unlock the switching mechanism to respectively prevent and allow axial sliding displacement of the switching of the distal portion 206 relative to the proximal portion 204. The lock 209 may be provided at the distal portion 206 and/or the proximal portion 204.

[0118] In the vacuuming mode of the cleaning device 200, as seen in FIG. 7, the distal portion 206 may be in its retracted state relative to the proximal portion 204. In the retracted state of the distal portion 206, the shaft 202 may have a first length L1 between the proximal end 204a and the distal end 206a. In the sweeping mode of the cleaning device 200, as seen in FIG. 6, the distal portion 206 may be in its extended state relative to the proximal portion 204. In the extended state of the distal portion 206, the shaft 202 may have a second length L2 between the proximal end 204a and the distal end 206a. The second length L2 may be greater than the first length L1.

[0119] The sliding movement of the distal portion 206 relative to the proximal portion 204 between its extended state and its retracted state may cause displacement of the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222 between their extended state and their retracted state. As described above, the bristle head 220 may be coupled to the distal end 206a of the distal portion 206, thereby causing corresponding displacement of the bristle head 220, and consequently the set of bristles 222, simultaneously with the displacement of the distal portion 206.

[0120] The suction head 216 may be fixed relative to the proximal portion 204 of the shaft 202. In an embodiment, the suction head 216 may be connected at least indirectly with the proximal portion 204. The distal portion 206, and consequently the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222, may thus be displaceable relative to the suction head 216.

[0121] In the vacuuming mode of the cleaning device 200, as seen in FIG. 7, the distal portion 206 may be in its retracted state relative to the proximal portion 204, and consequently, the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222 may be in their retracted state. With the lock 209, the distal portion 206 may be fixed in position relative to the proximal portion 204. In the retracted state of the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222, the suction head 216 may be exposed, in that, the suction head 216 may protrude distally to a greater extent relative to the position of the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222. Accordingly, the intake opening 216a may be exposed. The suction mechanism, including the motor 212, may then be shifted to its active sate (e.g., by the user pressing the switch 213) to power on the suction mechanism and operate the cleaning device 200 in its vacuuming mode.

[0122] In the vacuuming mode, debris, dust, and fine particles located on the surface may be drawn through the intake opening of the suction head 216 and conveyed through the conduits to the debris chamber 210. The debris chamber 210 may trap the collected material.

[0123] To switch from the vacuuming mode to the sweeping mode, the lock 209 may be actuated to unlock the position of the distal portion 206 relative to the proximal portion 204. The distal portion 206 may be slidably displaced away from the proximal portion 204, to be moved from its retracted state to its extended state. When the distal portion 206 is in its extended state, the lock 209 may be actuated to fix the distal portion 206 in position relative to the proximal portion 204. Consequently, the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222 may be displaced from their retracted state to their extended state simultaneously with the distal portion 206. Optionally, the suction mechanism, including the motor 212, may be switched to its inactive state (e.g., by the user pressing the switch 213) to power off the suction mechanism prior to switching the cleaning device 200 from the vacuuming mode to the sweeping mode.

[0124] In the sweeping mode of the cleaning device 200, as seen in FIG. 6, the distal portion 206 may be in its extended state relative to the proximal portion 204, and consequently, the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222 may be in their extended state. In the extended state of the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222, the suction head 216 may be covered by the set of bristles 222, in that, the set of bristles 222 may protrude distally to a greater extent relative to the position of the suction head 216. Accordingly, the intake opening 216a may be covered (at least partially, substantially, or fully) by the bristles.

[0125] Since the set of bristles 222 protrude distally to a greater extent relative to the position of the suction head 216, the user may move the cleaning device 200 across the surface, allowing the bristles 222 to collect and aggregate dust, dirt, or debris. The bristles 222 may flex against the surface to dislodge particles and direct them into a concentrated region or debris line. In an embodiment, the cleaning device 200 is operable to automatically de-activate the suction mechanism when the distal portion is in its extended state and the set of bristles cover the suction head, i.e., when the cleaning device 200 switches from the vacuuming mode to the sweeping mode. In an embodiment, the control unit may automatically de-activate the suction mechanism upon a detection of the cleaning device 200 switching from the vacuuming mode to the sweeping mode.

[0126] To switch from the sweeping mode to the vacuuming mode, the lock 209 may be actuated to unlock the position of the distal portion 206 relative to the proximal portion 204. The distal portion 206 may be slidably displaced towards the proximal portion 204, to be moved from its extended state to its retracted state. When the distal portion 206 is in its retracted state, the lock 209 may be actuated to fix the distal portion 206 in position relative to the proximal portion 204. Consequently, the bristle head 220 and the set of bristles 222 may be displaced from their extended state to their retracted state simultaneously with the distal portion 206. In an embodiment, the cleaning device 200 is operable to automatically activate the suction mechanism when the distal portion is in its retracted state and the set of bristles expose the suction head, i.e., when the cleaning device 200 switches from the sweeping mode to the vacuuming mode. In an embodiment, the control unit may automatically activate the suction mechanism upon a detection of the cleaning device 200 switching from the sweeping mode to the vacuuming mode.

[0127] In alternate embodiments, the switching mechanism may be realized through other mechanical arrangements configured to achieve relative displacement between the distal portion 206 and the proximal portion 204, and thereby between the bristle head 220 and the suction head 216. For example, a lever-actuated linkage, cam-and-slot mechanism, or motor-driven actuator may be provided to raise or lower the bristle head 220 relative to the suction head 216.

[0128] Accordingly, the cleaning device 100, 200 allows a user to clean a surface by a combination of sweeping and vacuuming. The user may use the cleaning device to sweep the surface by using the cleaning device in the sweeping mode. Further, the user may use the cleaning device to suck the dirt and debris from the surface by using the cleaning device 100 in the vacuuming mode. The cleaning device thus ensures that all dirt and debris are vacuumed after sweeping the surface. The suction chamber extends towards the ground when the cleaning device is in the vacuuming mode so as to allow easy suction of dirt and debris. The push button is ergonomically positioned for easy access. The dirt and debris are collected in the debris chamber, thus preventing the user from bending and picking up the debris. When the set of bristles start to fray, the set of bristles can be replaced easily.

[0129] A versatile and effective cleaning device is thus provided that meets the needs of users seeking both manual and powered cleaning solutions. The cleaning device streamlines cleaning by combining the capabilities of a broom and a vacuum in a single device. The users can effortlessly switch between sweeping and vacuuming modes, reducing the need for multiple cleaning tools.

[0130] Since many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.