ADAPTER PLATE FOR SELECTIVELY SECURING VACUUM CLEANER TO PORTABLE TOOL CONTAINER

Abstract

An adapter plate for selectively securing a vacuum cleaner to a portable tool container includes a frame and a vacuum cleaner attachment assembly coupled to the frame. The vacuum cleaner attachment assembly includes at least one fixed locking tab positioned to engage a first end of the vacuum cleaner, at least one retractable locking tab movable between an extended position and a retracted position and positioned to engage a second end of the vacuum cleaner opposite the first end, an actuator operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab, and at least one spring operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab to bias the at least one retractable locking tab toward the extended position. Actuation of the actuator causes the at least one retractable locking tab to move from the extended position to the retracted position.

Description

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The field relates generally to vacuum cleaners and, in particular, to adapter plates for selectively securing vacuum cleaners to portable tool containers.

BACKGROUND

Wet/dry vacuum cleaners are useful tools for a variety of cleaning applications due to their high suction power and durable, high-capacity debris storage capability. Many wet/dry vacuums are portable and may be carried by a user during use. Further, many wet/dry vacuums are commonly used on worksites with other tools that are stored in portable tool containers or stacked tool containers, colloquially referred to as “packout” rolling toolboxes. However, vacuum cleaners can be bulky and difficult to move, and transporting vacuum cleaners and portable tool containers separately can be challenging.

This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the disclosure, which are described and/or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, an adapter plate for selectively securing a vacuum cleaner to a portable tool container includes a frame and a vacuum cleaner attachment assembly coupled to the frame. The vacuum cleaner attachment assembly includes at least one fixed locking tab positioned to engage a first end of the vacuum cleaner, at least one retractable locking tab movable between an extended position and a retracted position and positioned to engage a second end of the vacuum cleaner opposite the first end, an actuator operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab, and at least one spring operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab to bias the at least one retractable locking tab toward the extended position. Actuation of the actuator causes the at least one retractable locking tab to move from the extended position to the retracted position.

In another aspect, a system includes a portable tool container. The portable tool container includes a lid and at least one latch. The system further includes an adapter plate releasably secured to the portable tool container via the at least one latch. The adapter plate includes a frame and a vacuum cleaner attachment assembly coupled to the frame. The vacuum cleaner attachment assembly includes at least one fixed locking tab, at least one retractable locking tab movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and an actuator operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab. Actuation of the actuator causes the at least one retractable locking tab to move from the extended position to the retracted position. The system further includes a vacuum cleaner releasably secured to the adapter plate via the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly such that the vacuum cleaner is removable from the adapter plate upon actuation of the actuator. The at least one fixed locking tab engages a first end of the vacuum cleaner, and the at least one retractable locking tab engages a second end of the vacuum cleaner opposite the first end to secure the vacuum cleaner to the adapter plate.

In yet another aspect, a method of selectively securing a vacuum cleaner to a portable tool container includes connecting an adapter plate to a lid of the portable tool container using at least one latch of the portable tool container. The adapter plate includes a frame and a vacuum cleaner attachment assembly coupled to the frame. The vacuum cleaner attachment assembly includes at least one fixed locking tab, at least one retractable locking tab movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and an actuator operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab and operable to move the at least one retractable locking tab from the extended position to the retracted position. The method further includes securing the vacuum cleaner to the adapter plate by engaging the at least one fixed locking tab with a first end of the vacuum cleaner and engaging the at least one retractable locking tab with a second end of the vacuum cleaner opposite the first end.

Various refinements exist of the features noted in relation to the above-mentioned aspects of the present disclosure. Further features may also be incorporated in the above-mentioned aspects of the present disclosure as well. These refinements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For instance, various features discussed below in relation to any of the illustrated embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into any of the above-described aspects of the present disclosure, alone or in any combination.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example adapter plate with retractable locking tabs illustrated in an extended position.

FIG. 2 is a top view of the adapter plate shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the adapter plate shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an end view of the adapter plate shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the adapter plate shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the adapter plate shown in FIG. 1, with the retractable locking tabs illustrated in a retracted position.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an example actuator with retractable locking tabs of the adapter plate shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the adapter plate shown in FIG. 2, taken along line 8-8.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a portion of the adapter plate shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of an example cover plate of the adapter plate shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective view of the cover plate shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example frame of the adapter plate shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 is a side view of an example system including an adapter plate, a portable tool container, and a vacuum cleaner.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the system shown in FIG. 13, with the vacuum cleaner removed.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of a portion of the system shown in FIG. 13, with a portion of the vacuum cleaner removed.

FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of another portion of the system shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the system shown in FIG. 15, taken along line 17-17.

FIG. 18 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the system shown in FIG. 16, taken along line 18-18.

FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of another portion of the system shown in FIG. 13, with a portion of the portable tool container removed and with a portion of the vacuum cleaner removed.

FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of an example vacuum cleaner of the system shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 21 is a schematic view of the vacuum cleaner shown in FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a sectional view of the system shown in FIG. 13, taken along line 22-22.

FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the system shown in FIG. 22, taken along line 23-23, with the vacuum cleaner removed.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example adapter plate 100. FIGS. 2, 3, 4, and 5 are top, side, end, and bottom views, respectively, of the adapter plate 100 shown in FIG. 1. The adapter plate 100 is operable to selectively secure a vacuum cleaner (e.g., vacuum cleaner 300—shown in FIGS. 13 and 15-22) to a portable tool container or packout rolling toolbox (e.g., to a lid 502 of portable tool container 500) as described further herein.

In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter plate 100 includes a frame 102 and a vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104 coupled to the frame 102. The vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104 is operable to selectively secure the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100. Further, the adapter plate 100 may be selectively secured to the portable tool container 500, as described further herein.

With reference to FIGS. 1-6, the frame 102 extends from a first end 106 to a second end 108 and from a first side 110 to a second side 112. The frame 102 also includes a top surface 114 and a bottom surface 116. The frame 102 defines an access opening 118, a dustpan opening 120, and at least one slot 121 therein.

The access opening 118 provides access to the portable tool container 500 to which the adapter plate 100 is secured. That is, the access opening 118 provides access to the portable tool container 500 while the adapter plate 100 is secured to the portable tool container 500. More specifically, when the adapter plate 100 is secured to the portable tool container 500 and the vacuum cleaner 300 is not secured to the adapter plate 100, a user may access the portable tool container 500 (e.g., handle 504 of the portable tool container 500) via the access opening 118. The access opening 118 may also provide storage space for vacuum cleaner accessories (e.g., an extension wand, a dusting brush, a nozzle, a crevice tool, a rotary brush, etc.) between the adapter plate 100 and the portable tool container 500.

The dustpan opening 120 is adapted to receive at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner 300 therein. That is, when the vacuum cleaner 300 is secured to the adapter plate 100, a portion of the vacuum cleaner 300 is inserted or received into the dustpan opening 120. The dustpan opening 120 can also form at least part of a flow path with a suction device (e.g., suction device 314) of the vacuum cleaner 300 when the vacuum cleaner 300 is connected to the adapter plate 100 as described further herein.

The at least one slot 121 extends from the top surface 114 to the bottom surface 116 of the frame 102, and facilitates connecting anchoring components (e.g., hooks 802, shown in FIG. 22) used to help secure the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100 as described further herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter plate 100 defines a plurality of slots 121 that includes ten slots 121, with five slots 121 defined near each of the first and second sides 110, 112 of the frame 102. In other embodiments, the adapter plate 100 may include any suitable number of slots 121 in any suitable configuration that enables the adapter plate 100 to function as described herein.

The adapter plate 100 (e.g., the frame 102) also includes at least one container attachment clip 122 extending laterally outward from the frame 102. The at least one container attachment clip 122 is sized, shaped, and positioned to engage at least one latch (e.g., latch 506) of the portable tool container 500 to secure the adapter plate 100 to the portable tool container 500 as described further herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 102 includes four container attachment clips 122, with two container attachment clips 122 positioned at each of the first and second ends 106, 108 of the frame 102. However, in other embodiments, the frame 102 may include any suitable number of container attachment clips 122 in any suitable arrangement that enables the adapter plate 100 to function as described herein.

The adapter plate 100 (e.g., the frame 102) also includes at least one accessory attachment clip 124 coupled to the frame 102. The at least one accessory attachment clip 124 is operable to secure at least one vacuum accessory (e.g., an extension wand) to the adapter plate 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 102 includes four accessory attachment clips 124 (e.g., two on the first side 110 and two on the second side 112 of the frame 102). In the illustrated embodiment, each set of two accessory attachment clips 124 on each side 110, 112 of the frame 102 is operable to hold one vacuum wand. In other embodiments, the frame 102 may include any suitable number of accessory attachment clips 124 in any suitable arrangement that enables the adapter plate 100 to function as described herein. Further, in other embodiments, each accessory attachment clip 124 may be configured to hold a separate vacuum accessory (e.g., each accessory attachment clip 124 may hold a separate extension wand).

In the illustrated embodiment, the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104 includes at least one fixed locking tab 126 positioned to engage a first end (e.g., first end 301) of the vacuum cleaner 300 and at least one retractable locking tab 128 positioned to engage a second end (e.g., second end 303) of the vacuum cleaner 300 opposite the first end 301 to secure the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100. The retractable locking tab 128 is movable between an extended position (shown in FIG. 1) and a retracted position. The vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104 also includes an actuator 130 operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab 128. The vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104 further includes at least one spring 132 (FIG. 9) operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab 128 to bias the at least one retractable locking tab 128 toward the extended position. Actuation of the actuator 130 causes the at least one retractable locking tab 128 to move from the extended position to the retracted position.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the at least one retractable locking tab 128 in the extended position, and FIG. 6 illustrates an example of the at least one retractable locking tab 128 in the retracted position. In the extended position, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 is operable to engage the second end 303 of the vacuum cleaner 300. In the retracted position, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 does not engage the vacuum cleaner 300, allowing the vacuum cleaner 300 to be removed or disconnected from the adapter plate 100.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the at least one fixed locking tab 126 extends from a protrusion 134 of the frame 102. That is, the protrusion 134 extends from the frame 102 at a first end 136 to a second, free end 138, and the at least one fixed locking tab 126 extends from the protrusion 134. The at least one fixed locking tab 126 extends from the protrusion 134 towards the second end 108 of the frame 102 and has a generally triangular profile (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 8 and 17). That is, the at least one fixed locking tab 126 extends from the protrusion 134 and forms a point or catch 140 (shown in FIGS. 8 and 17). The triangular profile and the point 140 of the at least one fixed locking tab 126 facilitates engagement between the at least one fixed locking tab 126 and the first end 301 of the vacuum cleaner 300 as described further herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104 includes two fixed locking tabs 126. In other embodiments, the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104 may include any suitable number of fixed locking tabs 126 having any suitable configuration that enables the adapter plate 100 to function as described herein.

In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 is positioned near the second end 108 of the frame 102. That is, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 is positioned opposite to the at least one fixed locking tab 126. The at least one fixed locking tab 126 and the at least one retractable locking tab 128 are spaced apart by a gap or opening 131 that is sized and shaped to receive at least a portion the vacuum cleaner 300 therein.

The at least one retractable locking tab 128 is operably coupled to the actuator 130, such that actuation of the actuator 130 from the extended position to the retracted position facilitates movement of the at least one retractable locking tab 128 from the extended position to the retracted position. In the example embodiment, the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104 includes two retractable locking tabs 128 operably coupled to the actuator 130. However, in other embodiments, the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104 may include any suitable number of retractable locking tabs 128 that enable the adapter plate 100 to function as described herein.

Similar to the at least one fixed locking tab 126, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 has a triangular profile and includes a point or catch 142 (also shown in FIGS. 7 and 18) similar to the point 140. More specifically, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 includes an upper engagement surface 144 that includes a tapered portion 146. The tapered portion 146 is oriented at an oblique angle α (shown in FIG. 8) relative to a travel direction (e.g., indicated by reference number 148) of the at least one retractable locking tab 128 when moving between the extended position and the retracted position such that, as the vacuum cleaner 300 is inserted into the opening 131 to connect the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100, the vacuum cleaner 300 engages the tapered portion 146 and moves the at least one retractable locking tab 128 from the extended position to the retracted position. That is, when the vacuum cleaner 300 is secured to the adapter plate 100, a user is not required to directly actuate the actuator 130 in order to secure the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100. Rather, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 will engage the vacuum cleaner 300 and automatically retract when securing the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100 without direct actuation of the actuator 130 by the user.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the actuator 130, FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the adapter plate 100 shown in FIG. 2, taken along line 8-8, and FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a portion of the adapter plate 100 shown in FIG. 8.

As shown in FIG. 7, the actuator 130 extends from a first end 147 to a second end 149 and includes a button 150 that defines a recessed portion 152 therein.

In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 is integrally formed as one piece with the actuator 130. That is, movement of the actuator 130 directly facilitates movement of the at least one retractable locking tab 128. In other embodiments, the actuator 130 and the at least one retractable locking tab 128 may be formed as separate pieces that are operably coupled together (e.g., via a mechanical linking mechanism, via an electrical actuation system etc.).

With reference to FIG. 9, when the button 150 of the actuator 130 is pressed, the actuator 130 moves from the extended position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1) to the retracted position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6). Similarly, as the actuator 130 moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 moves from the extended position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1) to the retracted position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6). That is, the actuator 130 is operable to control the at least one retractable locking tab 128 to selectively move between the extended position and the retracted position and to selectively engage the vacuum cleaner 300.

As shown in FIG. 9, the recessed portion 152 of the button 150 generally has a curved side profile. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the recessed portion 152 includes a pattern 154 formed therein. In the example embodiment, the pattern 154 is a hex-pattern formed of hexagonal divots within the recessed portion 152. In other embodiments, the button 150 may include any suitable pattern that enables the adapter plate 100 to function as described herein. The recessed portion 152 of the button 150 and the pattern 154 helps to provide an indication to the user that the button 150 may be pressed in order to move the actuator 130 and the at least one retractable locking tab 128.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 10, and 11, the adapter plate 100 also includes a cover plate 156 that is operable to secure the actuator 130 and the at least one retractable locking tab 128 to the adapter plate 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover plate 156 defines at least one hole 158 that is operable to receive one of the at least one retractable locking tabs 128 therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover plate 156 defines two holes 158, one for each of the corresponding retractable locking tabs 128. In other embodiments, the cover plate may define any suitable number of holes 158 in any suitable configuration that enables the adapter plate 100 to function as described herein.

The cover plate 156 also includes alignment tabs 160 that facilitate properly aligning the cover plate 156 on the actuator 130 before securing the cover plate 156 to the frame 102, thereby securing the actuator 130 (and the at least one retractable locking tab 128) to the cover plate 156. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover plate 156 includes two alignment tabs 160. In other embodiments, the cover plate may include any suitable number of alignment tabs 160 in any suitable configuration that enables the adapter plate 100 to function as described herein.

In the illustrated embodiment (e.g., FIG. 2), the cover plate 156 is secured to the frame 102 via fasteners (e.g., screws). In other embodiments, the cover plate 156 may be secured to the frame 102 in any suitable manner that enables the adapter plate 100 to function as described herein.

With reference to FIG. 9, the at least one spring 132 is positioned between the actuator 130 and the frame 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one spring 132 is one compression spring 132 that is operable to bias the at least one retractable locking tab 128 and the actuator 130 towards their respective extended positions. The cover plate 156 functions as a stopper for the actuator 130 and the at least one retractable locking tab 128 that are biased away from the second end 108 of the frame 102 by the at least one spring 132. That is, the cover plate 156 restricts how far the actuator 130 and the at least one retractable locking tab 128 may move away from the second end 108 of the frame 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 130 and the at least one retractable locking tab 128 are in their respective extended positions when the spring 132 has moved the actuator 130 and the at least one retractable locking tab 128 away from the second end 108 of the frame 102 and into engagement with the cover plate 156.

In the illustrated embodiment, when the actuator 130 is moved from the extended position to the retracted position (e.g., via the user pushing the button 150 or when the vacuum cleaner 300 is inserted into the adapter plate 100), the retractable locking tabs 128 are moved from their extended positions to their retracted positions, and the spring 132 is compressed between the actuator 130 and the frame 102. As shown in FIG. 6, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 is at least partially retracted within the adapter plate 100 (specifically, within the cover plate 156) in the retracted position. When the actuator 130 is released from the retracted position, the spring 132 moves the actuator 130 and the retractable locking tabs 128 back toward their respective extended positions.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the frame 102 shown in FIG. 1. With reference to FIGS. 7-12, when assembling the adapter plate 100, the cover plate 156 is placed on the actuator 130 such that the alignment tabs 160 engage first and second ends 147, 149 of the actuator 130. The spring 132 is positioned between the actuator 130 and the frame 102, and the cover plate 156 is secured to the frame 102 such that the actuator 130 and the spring 132 are secured between the cover plate 156 and the frame 102.

FIG. 13 is a side view of an example system 700 including the adapter plate 100, the portable tool container 500, and the vacuum cleaner 300, and FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the system 700 shown in FIG. 13, with the vacuum cleaner 300 removed.

As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the portable tool container 500 includes a lid 502 and at least one latch 506. The portable tool container 500 also includes a handle 504 and at least one wheel 505. The handle 504 and the wheels 505 facilitate transportation of the portable tool container 500 by the user. In the illustrated embodiment, the portable tool container 500 is a packout rolling toolbox and includes two wheels 505 (only one wheel 505 is shown in FIGS. 13 and 14—the other wheel is positioned on the other side of the portable tool container 500 opposite the illustrated wheel 505) coupled thereto to facilitate rolling the portable tool container 500 during transportation.

The adapter plate 100 is releasably secured or connected to the portable tool container 500 (e.g., the lid 502) via the at least one latch 506 of the portable tool container 500. That is, the at least one latch 506 of the portable tool container 500 engages the at least one container attachment clip 122 to secure the adapter plate 100 to the portable tool container 500. The vacuum cleaner 300 is releasably secured to the adapter plate 100 via the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104 such that the vacuum cleaner 300 is removable from the adapter plate 100 upon actuation of the actuator 130.

The adapter plate 100 is operable to selectively secure the vacuum cleaner 300 to the lid 502 of the portable tool container 500. More specifically, the at least one latch 506 is operable to engage the at least one container attachment clip 122 of the adapter plate 100 to secure the adapter plate 100 (and the vacuum cleaner 300, if the vacuum cleaner 300 is secured to the adapter plate 100) to the lid 502 of the portable tool container 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the lid 502 includes two pivotable latches 506, and each latch 506 engages a corresponding set of two container attachment clips 122 of the adapter plate 100 to secure the adapter plate 100 to the lid 502. In other embodiments, the portable tool container 500 may include any suitable number of latches 506 having any suitable configuration that enables the system 700 to function as described herein.

When the vacuum cleaner 300 is secured to the adapter plate 100 and the adapter plate 100 is secured to the portable tool container 500, the user may transport the system 700 by rolling the system on wheels 505, which facilitates easier, more-efficient transportation of the vacuum cleaner 300 and the portable tool container 500. That is, the vacuum cleaner 300 and the portable tool container 500 may be transported together (e.g., as one unit) instead of separately.

As shown in FIG. 14, the access opening 118 of the adapter plate 100 provides access to the handle 504 of the portable tool container 500 such that the portable tool container 500 can be carried by the user with the adapter plate 100 secured to the portable tool container 500 (e.g., to the lid 502). In some embodiments, the portable tool container 500 may include an access opening (e.g., in the lid 502) that allows a user to access contents within the portable tool container 500 without opening the lid 502, and the access opening 118 of the adapter plate 100 may enable a user access to the access opening of the portable tool container 500 when the adapter plate 100 is secured to the portable tool container 500.

Although the vacuum cleaner 300 is shown and described herein with reference to a wet/dry vacuum cleaner, vacuum cleaners consistent with this disclosure may be embodied in other types and in other combinations, including, for example and without limitation, backpack vacuum cleaners and canister vacuum cleaners.

FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of the vacuum cleaner 300 of the system 700 shown in FIG. 13, and FIG. 21 is a schematic view of the vacuum cleaner 300 shown in FIG. 20. With reference to FIGS. 13, 20, and 21, the vacuum cleaner 300 extends from a first end 301 to a second end 303 and includes a bottom surface 307 (shown in FIG. 18). The vacuum cleaner 300 includes a collection drum or canister 302 including an inlet port 304, and a powerhead 308 removably mounted to a top of the canister 302. The canister 302 defines a debris chamber 306 (shown in FIG. 21) for storing debris collected by the vacuum cleaner 300. The powerhead 308 is removably attached to the canister 302 (e.g., via a hinge mechanism or latches) such that it can be readily removed to empty debris or liquids contained in the canister 302. The powerhead 308 includes a housing 309 and, as shown in FIG. 21, a motor 312, and a suction device 314 (collectively referred to as a suction unit 310) located within the housing 309. The suction unit 310 is operable to generate airflow through the debris chamber 306 from an inlet opening 316 (shown in FIG. 15) defined by the inlet port 304 to an outlet port 318 such that debris and/or liquid is drawn into the debris chamber 306.

A vacuum conduit 320 (FIG. 20) is removably connected to the inlet port 304 to direct suction and/or forced air generated by the suction unit 310 into the debris chamber 306. The debris chamber 306 is fluidly connected to both the inlet port 304 and the outlet port 318. The canister 302 can further include an access door or lid (not shown) that provides access to the debris chamber 306, for example, to empty debris collected within the debris chamber 306.

The vacuum conduit 320 can generally include any suitable conduit for directing suction and/or forced air, including, for example and without limitation, vacuum hoses, vacuum wands or tubes, surface cleaning tools, and combinations thereof. With reference to FIGS. 20 and 21, the vacuum conduit 320 includes a hose 321 having a first, inlet end 323 and a second, outlet end 325.

The powerhead 308 also includes a handle 322 (FIG. 13) to facilitate lifting, manipulating, and/or transporting the vacuum cleaner 300. The handle 322 can be formed integrally with the powerhead housing 309, or it can be formed separately from and attached to the housing 309 or another part of the powerhead 308. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 322 is hingedly connected to the housing 309 and is selectively rotatable from a flat, stowed position, in which the handle 322 is substantially flush or conformal with the powerhead housing 309, to an upward, deployed position, in which the handle 322 extends upwardly from the housing 309 via one or more support arms (not shown). The vacuum cleaner 300 can also be transported by rolling it on optional wheels or casters (not shown) removably connected to the canister 302.

With reference to FIG. 21, the motor 312 is operatively connected to the suction device 314 to generate airflow through the debris chamber 306. The suction device 314 receives airflow from the debris chamber. The suction device 314 can include, for example and without limitation, an impeller, a fan, or any suitable device for generating a sufficient suction force for collecting dirt, debris, and other wet and/or dry materials within the debris chamber 306.

The vacuum cleaner 300 can also include a filter assembly 328 operable to filter out fine debris and small particles from the airflow through the debris chamber 306. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter assembly 328 is connected to and depends downward from the powerhead 308 and into the debris chamber 306. The illustrated filter assembly 328 is a cartridge filter, but the vacuum cleaner 300 can also operate with other types of filters, including, for example and without limitation, a bag filter.

In operation, when the motor 32 is energized, the suction unit 310 creates an airflow path between the inlet end 323 of the hose 321 and the outlet port 318 of the powerhead 308. The airflow path is illustrated generally by the arrows in FIG. 21. The suction unit 310 creates a suction force at the inlet end 323 of the hose 321, drawing airflow and debris through the hose 321, through the inlet port 304 of the canister 302 and into the debris chamber 306, through the filter assembly 328, and through the suction device 314 (e.g., into the powerhead 308) and out the outlet port 318 into an environment surrounding the vacuum cleaner 300. In certain embodiments, a vacuum accessory can be attached to the inlet end 323 of the hose 321, including, for example and without limitation, an extension wand, a dusting brush, a nozzle, a crevice tool, or a rotary brush. In certain embodiments, operation of the suction unit 310 can be reversed to enable the vacuum cleaner 300 to operate as a blower.

The powerhead 308 can also include a controller 330 and a power switch (not shown) for selectively connecting and disconnecting the vacuum cleaner 300 from a power source 332. The power source 332 can be any suitable power source that supplies electrical power to components of the vacuum cleaner 300, such as the motor 312 and the controller 330, and that enables the vacuum cleaner 300 to operate as described herein. Suitable types of power sources 332 include, for example and without limitation, DC power sources, such as battery packs, and AC power sources, such as mains AC electricity from a household or commercial wall outlet.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of a portion of the system 700 shown in FIG. 13, with a portion of the vacuum cleaner removed. FIG. 17 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the system 700 shown in FIG. 15, taken along line 17-17 in FIG. 15. FIGS. 15 and 17 illustrate engagement of the at least one fixed locking tab 126 of the adapter plate 100 with the vacuum cleaner 300 (e.g., with the first end 301 of the vacuum cleaner 300). More specifically, the vacuum cleaner 300 includes at least one first engagement groove 334 sized and shaped to receive the at least one fixed locking tab 126 therein. The at least one fixed locking tab 126 engages the at least one first engagement groove 334 when securing the first end 301 of the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100. In the example embodiment, the vacuum cleaner 300 includes two first engagement grooves 334, one for each of the fixed locking tabs 126. In other embodiments, the vacuum cleaner 300 may include any suitable number of first engagement grooves 334 that enable the system 700 to function as described herein.

FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of a portion of the system 700 shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 18 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the system shown in FIG. 16, taken along line 18-18 in FIG. 16. FIGS. 16 and 18 illustrate engagement of the at least one retractable locking tab 128 of the adapter plate 100 with the vacuum cleaner 300 (e.g., with the second end 303 of the vacuum cleaner 300). More specifically, the vacuum cleaner 300 includes at least one second engagement groove 336 sized and shaped to receive the at least one retractable locking tab 128 therein to facilitate securing the second end 303 of the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the vacuum cleaner 300 (specifically, the canister 302) includes two second engagement grooves, one for each of the retractable locking tabs 128. In other embodiments, the vacuum cleaner 300 may include any suitable number of second engagement grooves 336 that enable the system 700 to function as described herein.

When securing the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100, the vacuum cleaner 300 is initially positioned such that the at least one first engagement groove 334 in the first end 301 of the vacuum cleaner 300 engages the at least one fixed locking tab 126 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 17). While maintaining engagement of the first engagement groove 334 (i.e., the first end 301 of the vacuum 300) with the at least one fixed locking tab 126, the vacuum cleaner 300 is then positioned (e.g., by rotating the second end 303 of the vacuum cleaner 300 downward about the engagement point between the at least one fixed locking tab 126 and the at least one first engagement groove 334) such that the bottom surface 307 near the second end 303 of the vacuum cleaner 300 engages the tapered portion 146 of the at least one retractable locking tab 128. That is, at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner 300 is inserted into the gap or opening 131. Engagement of the bottom surface 307 near the second end 303 of the vacuum cleaner 300 with the tapered portion 146 of the at least one retractable locking tab 128 facilitates movement of the at least one retractable locking tab 128 (and the actuator 130) from the extended position to the retracted position and allows the vacuum cleaner 300 to be inserted into the frame 102 of the adapter plate 100.

Once the vacuum cleaner 300 is inserted or received into (e.g., installed on) the adapter plate 100 (e.g., once at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner 300 is inserted or received into the gap or opening 131) such that the at least one retractable locking tab 128 engages the at least one second engagement groove 336, the at least one spring 132 moves the at least one retractable locking tab 128 (and the actuator 130) toward the extended position to engage the at least one second engagement groove 336, thereby securing the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100. That is, the spring 132 moves the at least one retractable locking tab 128 to the extended position after the vacuum cleaner 300 is seated within the opening 131 of the adapter plate 100 such that the at least one retractable locking tab 128 engages and secures the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100 in the extended position.

To remove the vacuum cleaner 300 from the adapter plate 100, the button 150 of the actuator 130 is depressed or pushed such that the actuator 130 and the at least one retractable locking tab 128 move to their respective retracted positions. As the at least one retractable locking tab 128 moves towards the retracted position, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 disengages the at least one second engagement groove 336 of the vacuum cleaner 300, and the second end 303 of the vacuum cleaner 300 may be lifted upward and removed from the adapter plate 100 (e.g., the vacuum cleaner 300 is removed from the gap or opening 131). That is, the at least one retractable locking tab 128 is operable to selectively engage the vacuum cleaner 300 via actuation of the actuator 130 to release the vacuum cleaner 300 from the adapter plate 100. With the second end 303 of the vacuum cleaner 300 removed from the adapter plate 100, the vacuum cleaner 300 may be moved or rotated by the user such that the at least one fixed locking tab 126 disengages the at least one first engagement groove 334 and such that the first end 301 of the vacuum cleaner 300 is removed from the adapter plate 100.

FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of another portion of the system shown in FIG. 13, with a portion of the portable tool container 500 removed to illustrate an underside of the lid 502. With reference to FIGS. 19 and 20, the example vacuum cleaner 300 also includes a dustpan 340, and a hose end mount 344 defining a hose end opening (not labeled). The dustpan 340 defines a debris intake opening 346. When the inlet end 323 of the hose 321 is connected to the hose end mount 344, the debris intake opening 346 is in fluid communication with the inlet end 323 of the hose 321 and becomes part of the flow path of the vacuum cleaner 300 described above. In such configurations, operation of the suction unit 310 of the vacuum cleaner 300 creates a suction force at the debris intake opening 346, drawing airflow and debris into the flow path therefrom. The user can thus sweep debris near or through the debris intake opening 346 to be drawn into the dustpan 340 by the suction force of the suction unit 310.

The hose end opening (not labeled) is defined within the hose end mount 344 and is sized and shaped to receive an inlet adapter 345 of the hose 321 to removably connect the inlet end 323 of the hose 321 to the hose end mount 344. The inlet end 323 of the hose 321 can be inserted therein either for storage purposes or to use the dustpan 340 when the vacuum cleaner 300 is in operation. The hose end mount 344 can retain the inlet end 323 of the hose 321 by an interference fit, clearance fit, interlocking features, or by any other suitable means.

In the illustrated embodiment, the vacuum cleaner 300 also includes a hose retainer 348 that includes a back plate 352 and a bottom wall 350 that extends or protrudes from the back plate 352. The dustpan 340 includes the bottom wall 350 of the hose retainer 348, and a skirt 354 that depends from the bottom wall 350. The skirt 354 extends around the bottom wall 350 from one side of the back plate 352 to the other, and is notched along a front of the hose retainer 348 to define the intake opening 346. The dustpan 340 also includes an arcuate baffle 356 depending from the bottom wall 350 to guide debris from the debris intake opening 346 towards the inlet end 323 of the hose 321 when connected to the hose end mount 344. The bottom wall 350, the skirt 354, and the arcuate baffle 356 cooperatively define a plenum or cavity 358 within the dustpan 340 that receives debris through the intake opening 346. The hose end opening is defined by the bottom wall 350, and extends through the bottom wall 350 into communication with the cavity 358.

In the illustrated embodiment, the dustpan 340 has an open bottom such that the cavity 358 is partially defined by a surface on which the vacuum cleaner 300 sits (e.g., the ground). Operation of the suction unit 310 creates a suction force within the cavity 358, drawing air and debris into the cavity 358 from the intake opening 346 and through the hose end opening from the cavity 358. The user can thus move the vacuum cleaner 300 from one location to the next, situating the dustpan 340 above any debris to generate a suction force within the cavity 358 that draws the debris into the flow path. Additional details and examples of vacuum cleaners including dustpans suitable for use with the systems disclosed herein are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/575,440, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

When the vacuum cleaner 300 is secured to the adapter plate 100, the dustpan opening 120 of the adapter plate 100 extends the cavity 358 such that the cavity 358 extends to the bottom surface 116 of the frame 102 of the adapter plate 100. That is, when the vacuum cleaner 300 is secured to the adapter plate 100, operation of the suction unit 310 creates a suction force within the cavity 358 that extends to the bottom surface 116 of the frame 102 of the adapter plate 100, drawing air and debris into the cavity 358 from the dustpan opening 120 and through the hose end opening from the cavity 358. A user can thereby move the vacuum cleaner 300 and adapter plate 100 as one unit (e.g., without the portable tool container 500) from one location to the next, situating the dustpan 340 and the dustpan opening 120 above any debris to generate a suction force within the cavity 358 that draws the debris into the flow path. That is, the dustpan opening 120 of the adapter plate facilitates use of the dustpan 340 of the vacuum cleaner 300 when the vacuum cleaner 300 is secured to the adapter plate 100 (e.g., without the portable tool container 500).

FIG. 22 is a sectional view of the system 700 shown in FIG. 13, taken along line 22-22 in FIG. 13, and FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the system 700 shown in FIG. 22, taken along line 23-23, with the vacuum cleaner 300 removed. In the illustrated embodiment, the system 700 further includes an auxiliary or secondary attachment system 800 that provides a secondary connection between the vacuum cleaner 300 and the adapter plate 100. The secondary attachment system 800 is configured to interact with the slots 121 (e.g., at least two slots 121) of the adapter plate 100 to secure the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100. More specifically, the vacuum cleaner 300 is positioned between at least two of the slots 121, and the secondary attachment system 800 engages a first slot 121 of the at least two slots 121 and a second slot 121 of the at least two slots 121. The secondary attachment system 800 extends around the vacuum cleaner 300 to releasably secure the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100 independently of the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104.

Examples of suitable secondary attachment systems 800 include, for example and without limitation, straps, cords, belts, ropes, fasteners, hooks, and combinations thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary attachment system 800 is a bungee cord 804 that includes a hook 802 at each end (e.g., at least two hooks 802), and each hook 802 is secured to the adapter plate 100 by engaging the slots 121 of the adapter plate 100. That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the hooks 802 each engage a separate slot 121 of the plurality of slots 121 of the adapter plate 100 (e.g., on separate sides 110, 112 of the frame 102), and the bungee cord 804 is coupled to each of the hooks 802. The vacuum cleaner 300 is positioned such that the hooks 802 and the bungee cord 804 releasably secure the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100. In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104 may be used to secure the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100, and the secondary attachment system 800 may also be used to further secure the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100. In other embodiments, only the secondary attachment system 800 may be used to secure the vacuum cleaner 300 to the adapter plate 100 (e.g., without use of the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly 104).

Embodiments of the adapter plates and the systems described herein provide several advantages over prior designs. For example, the adapter plate enables vacuum cleaners to be selectively secured to portable tool containers, allowing the vacuum cleaner and the portable tool container to be transported together, rather than separately. Further, the wheels of the portable tool container facilitate easier transportation (e.g., rolling) of the system (e.g., the vacuum cleaner, adapter plate, and portable tool container), which may otherwise be heavy and bulky for a user to carry.

The adapter plate also engages the vacuum cleaner without the user directly interacting with components of the adapter plate and facilitates ease and efficiency of securing the vacuum cleaner to the adapter plate. For example, when the vacuum cleaner is secured to the adapter plate, the retractable locking tabs automatically engage the vacuum cleaner without a user needing to directly move the actuator.

Additionally, embodiments of the adapter plates described herein provide access to the portable tool container to which the adapter plate is secured via an access opening (e.g., when the vacuum cleaner is not secured to the adapter plate). Further, embodiments of the adapter plates enable debris pickup using the dustpan of the vacuum cleaner via the dustpan opening in the adapter plate. That is, when the vacuum cleaner is secured to the adapter plate, a user can sweep debris into the dustpan to be picked up. Alternatively, and because the dustpan has an open bottom, a user can move the vacuum cleaner and the adapter plate (e.g., as one unit) to situate the dustpan over debris to be picked up. Users can also remove the inlet end of the hose from the hose retainer to use it manually, and can attach various vacuum accessories to more effectively clean different surfaces or hard-to-reach areas.

Embodiments of the adapter plates also facilitate multiple methods of securing the vacuum cleaner to the adapter plate (e.g., via slots that interact with secondary attachment systems).

The adapter plate may also be selectively secured to different portable tool containers. For example, the container attachment clips of the adapter enable the adapter plate (and thus the vacuum cleaner) to be secured to many different types of portable tool containers because of common attachment systems used across portable tool containers and packout systems.

As used herein, the terms “about,” “substantially,” “essentially” and “approximately” when used in conjunction with ranges of dimensions, concentrations, temperatures or other physical or chemical properties or characteristics is meant to cover variations that may exist in the upper and/or lower limits of the ranges of the properties or characteristics, including, for example, variations resulting from rounding, measurement methodology or other statistical variation.

When introducing elements of the present disclosure or the embodiment (s) thereof, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. The use of terms indicating a particular orientation (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “side,” etc.) is for convenience of description and does not require any particular orientation of the item described.

As various changes could be made in the above constructions and methods without departing from the scope of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawing[s] shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

1. An adapter plate for selectively securing a vacuum cleaner to a portable tool container, the adapter plate comprising: a frame; anda vacuum cleaner attachment assembly coupled to the frame and including: at least one fixed locking tab positioned to engage a first end of the vacuum cleaner;at least one retractable locking tab movable between an extended position and a retracted position and positioned to engage a second end of the vacuum cleaner opposite the first end;an actuator operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab; andat least one spring operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab to bias the at least one retractable locking tab toward the extended position,wherein actuation of the actuator causes the at least one retractable locking tab to move from the extended position to the retracted position.

2. The adapter plate according to claim 1 further comprising at least one container attachment clip extending laterally outward from the frame, wherein the at least one container attachment clip is sized, shaped, and positioned to engage at least one latch of the portable tool container to secure the adapter plate to the portable tool container.

3. The adapter plate according to claim 1 further comprising at least one accessory attachment clip coupled to the frame and operable to secure at least one vacuum accessory to the adapter plate.

4. The adapter plate according to claim 1, wherein the frame defines an opening adapted to receive at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner, wherein the opening forms at least part of a flow path with a suction device of the vacuum cleaner when the vacuum cleaner is connected to the adapter plate.

5. The adapter plate according to claim 1, wherein the frame defines an access opening that provides access to the portable tool container to which the adapter plate is secured.

6. The adapter plate according to claim 1, wherein the at least one retractable locking tab includes an upper engagement surface that includes a tapered portion oriented at an oblique angle relative to a travel direction of the at least one retractable locking tab when moving between the extended position and the retracted position such that, when the vacuum cleaner is connected to the adapter plate, the vacuum cleaner engages the tapered portion and moves the at least one retractable locking tab from the extended position to the retracted position.

7. The adapter plate according to claim 1, wherein the at least one spring moves the at least one retractable locking tab to the extended position after the vacuum cleaner is installed on the adapter plate such that the at least one retractable locking tab engages and secures the vacuum cleaner to the adapter plate in the extended position.

8. The adapter plate according to claim 1, wherein the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly includes two retractable locking tabs operably coupled to the actuator.

9. The adapter plate according to claim 1, wherein the at least one retractable locking tab is operable to selectively engage the vacuum cleaner via actuation of the actuator to release the vacuum cleaner from the adapter plate.

10. The adapter plate according to claim 1, wherein the adapter plate is operable to selectively secure the vacuum cleaner to a lid of the portable tool container.

11. The adapter plate according to claim 1, wherein the at least one retractable locking tab is at least partially retracted within the adapter plate in the retracted position.

12. A system comprising: a portable tool container including a lid and at least one latch;an adapter plate releasably secured to the portable tool container via the at least one latch, the adapter plate comprising: a frame; anda vacuum cleaner attachment assembly coupled to the frame and including: at least one fixed locking tab;at least one retractable locking tab movable between an extended position and a retracted position; andan actuator operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab, wherein actuation of the actuator causes the at least one retractable locking tab to move from the extended position to the retracted position; anda vacuum cleaner releasably secured to the adapter plate via the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly such that the vacuum cleaner is removable from the adapter plate upon actuation of the actuator,wherein the at least one fixed locking tab engages a first end of the vacuum cleaner, and the at least one retractable locking tab engages a second end of the vacuum cleaner opposite the first end to secure the vacuum cleaner to the adapter plate.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the adapter plate further comprises at least one container attachment clip extending laterally outward from the frame, wherein the at least one latch of the portable tool container engages the at least one container attachment clip to secure the adapter plate to the portable tool container.

14. The system according to claim 12, wherein the adapter plate further comprises at least one accessory attachment clip coupled to the frame and operable to secure at least one vacuum accessory to the adapter plate.

15. The system according to claim 12, wherein the frame defines an opening in which a portion of the vacuum cleaner is received, wherein the opening forms at least part of a flow path with a suction device of the vacuum cleaner.

16. The system according to claim 12, wherein the frame defines an access opening that provides access to the portable tool container while the adapter plate is secured to the portable tool container.

17. The system according to claim 12, wherein the at least one retractable locking tab includes an upper engagement surface that includes a tapered portion oriented at an oblique angle relative to a travel direction of the at least one retractable locking tab when moving between the extended position and the retracted position such that, when the vacuum cleaner is connected to the adapter plate, the vacuum cleaner engages the tapered portion and moves the at least one retractable locking tab from the extended position to the retracted position.

18. The system according to claim 12, wherein the adapter plate further comprises at least one spring operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab, and wherein the at least one spring moves the at least one retractable locking tab to the extended position after the vacuum cleaner is installed on the adapter plate such that the at least one retractable locking tab engages and secures the vacuum cleaner to the adapter plate in the extended position.

19. The system of claim 12, wherein the adapter plate defines a plurality of slots, wherein the vacuum cleaner is positioned between at least two of the slots, wherein the system further comprises a secondary attachment system that engages a first slot of the at least two slots and a second slot of the at least two slots and extends around the vacuum cleaner to releasably secure the vacuum cleaner to the adapter plate independently of the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly.

20. A method of selectively securing a vacuum cleaner to a portable tool container, the method comprising: connecting an adapter plate to a lid of the portable tool container using at least one latch of the portable tool container, the adapter plate including a frame and a vacuum cleaner attachment assembly coupled to the frame, the vacuum cleaner attachment assembly including at least one fixed locking tab, at least one retractable locking tab movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and an actuator operably coupled to the at least one retractable locking tab and operable to move the at least one retractable locking tab from the extended position to the retracted position; andsecuring the vacuum cleaner to the adapter plate by engaging the at least one fixed locking tab with a first end of the vacuum cleaner and engaging the at least one retractable locking tab with a second end of the vacuum cleaner opposite the first end.