BLOWERS

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to an outdoor tool such as a blower, and more particularly, to improved blower features.

BACKGROUND

Outdoor tools such as blowers are commonly used to concentrate debris, e.g., leaves, using a blowing function. Blowers being powered by a battery power source are particularly desirable due to their portability. However, improvements in various aspects of blowers, and particularly handheld blowers, are desired.

For example, one or more of reducing assembly and disassembly difficulties, reducing size, reducing performance risks such as risk of shutdown and/or electronics damage, improvements in sounds quality and reduction in sound volume, improved aerodynamics and airflow performance, reducing vibration during use, and/or improving user safety would be advantageous.

Accordingly, improved blowers are desired in the art. In particular, a blower which addresses one or more of the above-described issues would be advantageous.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Aspects and advantages of the invention in accordance with the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the technology.

In accordance with one embodiment, a blower is provided. The blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet opposite the air inlet and a blower tube removably coupled to the air outlet of the blower housing. At least a portion of the blower housing and the blower tube define an airflow conduit. The blower housing includes a motor, a fan, a stator adjacent the fan, and a plurality of guide members. The plurality of guide members extends from an interior surface of the blower housing and is configured to engage the stator.

In accordance with another embodiment, a blower is provided. The blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet opposite the air inlet and a blower tube extending between a first end and a second end. The blower tube includes an inner wall extending from the first end to the second end and an outer wall extending from the first end of the inner wall. The outer wall and the first end of the inner wall are removably coupled to the air outlet of the blower housing.

In accordance with another embodiment, a blower is provided. The blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet, an air outlet, and an airflow conduit between the air inlet and the air outlet. The blower also includes a fan within the blower housing, a stator within the blower housing adjacent the fan, and at least one liner within the bower housing between the stator and the air outlet. The at least one liner is formed from a damper material.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the technology and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the technology.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode of making and using the present systems and methods, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a blower in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1B is a side view of the blower of FIG. 1A in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a cross-section view of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3A is a detailed, side view of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3B is a cross-section view of the blower of FIG. 3A in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4A is a top, perspective view of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4B is a detailed view of the blower of FIG. 4A in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is an interior view of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6A is an interior view of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a stator of the blower of FIG. 6A in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a grommet of the blower of FIGS. 6A-6B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7B is a side view of the grommet of FIG. 7A in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a cross-section view of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a cross-section view of an inlet grate of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a cross-section view of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a top view of a blower tube of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a detailed, cross-section view of a motor of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 13 is a cross-section view of a handle of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Moreover, each example is provided by way of explanation, rather than limitation of, the technology. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made in the present technology without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed technology. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. The detailed description uses numerical and letter designations to refer to features in the drawings. Like or similar designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to like or similar parts of the invention.

As used herein, the terms “first”, “second”, and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms “coupled,” “fixed,” “attached to,” and the like refer to both direct coupling, fixing, or attaching, as well as indirect coupling, fixing, or attaching through one or more intermediate components or features, unless otherwise specified herein. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus, Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive-or and not to an exclusive-or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

Terms of approximation, such as “about,” “generally,” “approximately,” or “substantially,” include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction, e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems are described below with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all the claims.

In general, the present disclosure addresses one or more of the above-described issues by providing blowers with improved features as shown and described herein. For example, a blower may include one or more features for preventing improper assembly of one or more components of the blower, improving ease of assembly and disassembly, reducing vibrations during use, reducing sound volume during use, reducing risk of shutdown and damage to electronics, improving aerodynamics by reducing drag and airflow disruptions, improving safety by protecting users and electronics from shock, and enabling versatility for use with additional tool attachments.

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a blower in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the blower of FIG. 1A in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, a blower 100 includes a blower housing 108 extending between a first end 101 and a second end 103 opposite the first end. The blower housing 108 defines an air inlet 102 adjacent the first end 101 and an air outlet 104 adjacent the second end 103. The blower 100 may also include a blower tube 109 removably coupled to the second end 103 of the blower housing 108. For example, the blower tube 109 may include a first blower end 111 configured to be coupled to the second end 103 of the blower housing 108 and a second blower end 113 opposite the first blower end 111. The second blower end 113 may define the air outlet 104. The blower 100 is configured to generate airflow along an airflow conduit 106 extending between the air inlet 102 and the air outlet 104. For example, the airflow conduit 106 may extend from the air inlet 102 through the blower housing 108 and the blower tube 109 to the air outlet 104, as shown in FIG. 1B.

In at least one example embodiment, blower 100 is provided as a standard handheld blower having a cordless battery powered power source. For example, the blower housing 108 includes a handle 115. A power source 116 may be removably coupled to the blower housing 108. For example, the power source 116 may include one or more batteries removably coupled to a portion of the handle 115 of the blower housing 108. In other example embodiments, the blower 100 may include a corded electric power source and/or a gas power source. In still other example embodiments, the blower 100 may be provided as a standard backpack blower (not shown) adapted to be worn on a user's back and having a cordless battery power source.

FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section view of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiments, the blower housing 108 may at least partially enclose components of the blower 100 such as an airflow generation assembly 110 including a fan 112 and a motor 114 that drives the fan 112, as well as various other components. Power to operate the airflow generation assembly 110 may be provided by the power source 116, such as one or more batteries removably coupled to the blower housing 108.

In at least one example embodiment, the airflow generation assembly 110 may have an axial configuration. For example, the fan 112 and the motor 114 may be within the blower housing 108 between the air inlet 102 and the air outlet 104 and oriented along a central axis 120 of the airflow conduit 106. Rotation of the motor 114 causes rotation of a motor shaft 122 extending along the central axis 120. The motor shaft 122 is coupled to the fan 112. In this manner, rotation of the motor shaft 122 causes rotation of the fan 112.

In at least one example embodiment, the fan 112 includes a hub 130 and a plurality of blades 132. The hub 130 may have a generally circular cross-sectional shape and may extend along the central axis 120. The motor shaft 122 is coupled to the hub 130 and/or a fan drive shaft 134 to enable transmission of rotation from the motor 114 to the hub 130 or the fan drive shaft 134 and ultimately to the blades 132.

In at least one example embodiment, the airflow generation assembly 110 also includes a stator 200 disposed in series with the fan 112 within the blower housing 108. For example, the stator 200 may be disposed along the central axis 120 downstream of the fan 112. The stator 200 is configured to reduce swirl in the airflow, such as the airflow along the airflow conduit 106, associated with rotation of the fan 112. The stator 200 may include one or more airflow features configured to reduce swirl. For example, the stator 200 may include air-deflecting, stationary surfaces, such as a plurality of stator vanes 205, which are shaped and angled to impart straightening characteristics to the airflow. The plurality of stator vanes 205 may be spaced apart from each other around the motor 114 to impart similar characteristics to the airflow pattern across the entire circumferential area of the blower's airflow distribution.

In at least one example embodiment, the stator 200 is coupled to an interior surface of the blower housing 108, as will be discussed in greater detail with respect to FIGS. 5-6B, below. The stator 200 may be configured to secure the motor 114 and the fan 112 within the blower housing 108. In other example embodiments, the stator 200 is coupled to at least a portion of the motor 114. For example, the stator 200 may be coupled to a housing of the motor 114.

FIG. 3A illustrates a detailed side view of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-section view of the blower of FIG. 3A in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, the blower tube 109 includes an inner wall 300 and an outer wall 305. The inner wall 300 may extend from the first blower end 111 to the second blower end 113 of the blower tube 109. The outer wall 305 may extend from the inner wall 300 adjacent the first blower end 111. For example, the outer wall 305 may include a first portion 310 and a second portion 315. The first portion 310 may extend from an exterior surface of the inner wall 300 at an angle 320. The angle 320 may be less than about 90°. The first portion 310 may be offset from the first end 111 of the inner wall 300 such that the first portion 310 and the inner wall 300 define a cavity 325. The first portion 310 of the outer wall 305 and the cavity 325 may circumscribe the first blower end 111 of the inner wall 300. For example, the cavity 325 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the second end 103 of the blower housing 108 and secure the blower tube 109 to the blower housing 108.

In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 315 of the outer wall 305 extends from the first portion 310 and is parallel with the inner wall 300. The second portion 315 of the outer wall 305 is configured to cover at least a portion of an exterior surface of the blower housing 108 adjacent the second end 103. The outer wall 305 and the inner wall 300 of the blower tube 109 are configured to create a fluid seal such that airflow through the airflow conduit 106 does not leak out between the blower housing 108 and the blower tube 109.

In at least one example embodiment, the blower tube 109 includes a fastener 330 configured to engage and disengage the blower housing 108. The fastener may be adjacent the bottom portion of the blower 100. In other example embodiments, the fastener 330 may be positioned adjacent a side portion or a top portion of the blower 100.

In at least one example embodiment, the fastener 330 includes a lever 335 having a first side 331 and a second side 332. The lever 335 may be rotatable about a rod or a pin 340. The pin 340 may extend through an opening in the lever 335 and a corresponding opening in the outer wall 305 of the blower tube 109 to couple the lever 335 to the outer wall 305 of the blower tube 109. In at least one example embodiment, the lever 335 is rotatable about the pin 340 between an engaged position (shown in FIGS. 3A-3B) and a disengaged position. In at least one example embodiment, the first side 331 of the lever 335 is configured to engage a protrusion 345 extending from an exterior surface of the blower housing 108 adjacent the second end 103 in the engaged position such that the blower tube 109 is secured to the blower housing 108.

In at least one example embodiment, an operator may actuate the lever 335 by applying a force adjacent the second side 332 of the lever 335. A biasing member 350 may be disposed adjacent the second side 332 of the lever 335. For example, the biasing member 350 may be between the pin 340 and the second side 332 of the lever 335. The biasing member 350 may be biased between a protracted position and a retracted position. When the biasing member 350 is in the protracted position (shown in FIGS. 3A-3B), the lever 335 is in the engaged position and the first side 331 of the lever 335 is configured to engage the protrusion 345 such that the blower tube 109 is secured to the blower housing 108. When the biasing member 350 is in the retracted position, such as when the operator applies a force to the second side 332 of the lever 335 to overcome a force of the biasing member 350, the lever 335 is in the disengaged position. In the disengaged position, the blower tube 109 may be removed from or coupled to the blower housing 108. In at least one example embodiment, the biasing member 350 includes a spring.

FIG. 4A illustrates a top perspective view of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4B illustrates a detailed view of the blower of FIG. 4A in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, the second end 103 of the blower housing 108 defines a notch 405 configured to receive an extension 400 of the blower tube 109. The extension 400 may extend from the first blower end 111 of the blower tube 109. For example, the extension 400 may extend from the outer wall 305 of the blower tube.

In at least one example embodiment, the extension 400 is configured to be inserted within the notch 405 of the blower housing 108. Engaging the extension 400 with the notch 405 may ensure that the blower tube 109 is properly installed and secured to the blower housing 108. For example, if the extension 400 is not aligned with and inserted into the notch 405, the blower tube 109 will not attach to the blower housing 108. Additionally, or alternatively, if the extension 400 is not aligned with and inserted into the notch 405, the blower 100 may not be operated.

In at least one example embodiment, the notch 405 and the extension 400 are adjacent a top portion of the blower 100, as shown in FIGS. 4A-4B. In other example embodiments, the notch 405 and the extension 400 may be adjacent at least one side or a bottom portion of the blower 100.

In at least one example embodiment, the extension 400 is substantially flat. In other example embodiments, the extension 400 may be curved. For example, the extension 400 may have substantially the same shape as the outer wall 305 and/or the inner wall 300 of the blower tube 109.

FIG. 5 illustrates an interior view of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, a plurality of guide members 500 are disposed within the blower housing 108. For example, the plurality of guide members 500 may extend from an interior surface of the blower housing 108. The plurality of guide members 500 may be configured to engage the stator 200 and secure the stator 200 within the blower housing, as will be discussed in greater detail with respect to FIGS. 6A-7B.

In at least one example embodiment, each of the plurality of guide members 500 includes a receptacle 505 and at least one elongated rib. For example, each of the plurality of guide members 500 may include a first elongated rib 510 extending from the receptacle 505 and a second elongated rib 515 extending from the receptacle 505 opposite the first elongated rib 510. The receptacle 505, the first elongated rib 510, and the second elongated rib 515 are configured to receive and/or engage at least a portion of the stator 200 and ensure that the stator 200 is properly aligned and secured within the blower housing 108.

In at least one example embodiment, the blower housing 108 may include at least one of the plurality of guide member 500 adjacent a first side of the blower housing 108 and at least one of the plurality of guide members 500 adjacent a second side of the blower housing opposite the first side. For example, a first pair of the plurality of the guide members 500 may be positioned adjacent a first side of the blower housing 108 and a second pair of the plurality of guide member 500 may be adjacent a second side of the blower housing 108 opposite the first side. In at least one example embodiments, the first pair and the second pair of the plurality of guide members 500 may include a bar 520. For example, the bar 520 may extend between adjacent ones of the receptacles 505 of the plurality of guide members 500.

In at least one example embodiment, each of the elongated ribs, such as the first elongated rib 510 and the second elongated rib 515, of each of the plurality of guide members 500 may include at least one rib notch 525. Each of the at least one rib notch 525 may be configured to receive and/or engage a portion of the stator 200 for aligning and securing the stator 200 within the blower housing 108.

FIG. 6A illustrates an interior view of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of a stator of the blower of FIG. 6A in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, one or more grommets 600 are coupled to an exterior surface of the stator 200. For example, a first side of the stator 200 may include one or more of the grommets 600 (as shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) and a second side of the stator 200 opposite the first side may also include one or more of the grommets 600. The receptacle 505 of each of the guide members 500, as shown in FIG. 5, are configured to receive each of the grommets 600. For example, each of the grommets 600 are inserted into the receptacle 505 of each of the guide members 500 when the stator 200 is properly inserted and installed within the blower housing 108.

In at least one example embodiment, the stator 200 includes a plurality of stator ribs 605 extending from an exterior surface of the stator 200. Each of the plurality of stator ribs 605 may be adjacent each of the plurality of grommets 600. Each of the plurality of stator ribs 605 may be configured to limit radial movement of the stator 200 within the blower housing 108. Each of the plurality of stator ribs 605 may also prevent the one or more grommets 600 from falling off of the stator 200 during assembly and while installing the stator 200 in the blower housing 108. For example, one or more of the plurality of stator ribs 605 may extend further from the exterior surface of the stator 200 than the one or more grommets 600.

In at least one example embodiment, one or more of the plurality of stator ribs 605 define a space or gap 610. The gap 610 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the bar 520 extending between the receptacle 505 of the plurality of guide members 500 (shown in FIG. 5). For example, the gap 610 receives the bar 520 when the one or more grommets 600 are properly seated within the receptacle 505 of each of the guide members 500.

FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of a grommet of the blower of FIGS. 6A-6B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 7B illustrates a side view of the grommet of FIG. 7A in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, each of the one or more grommets 600 include a first end 700 and a second end 705 opposite the first end. The one or more grommets may define an opening 710 extending from the first end 700 towards the second end 705. The opening 710 may be configured to receive a screw, bolt, or other fastener extending from the exterior surface of the stator 200 such that the one or more grommets 600 cover the screw, bolt, or other fastener.

In at least one example embodiment, the one or more grommets 600 may taper from the first end 700 to the second end 705. For example, the one or more grommets 600 may include a tapered surface 715 adjacent the second end 705. The tapered surface 715 is configured to aid in guiding the one or more grommets into the receptacles 505 of the guide members 500. In at least one example embodiment, the tapered surface 715 may form an angle 720 relative to an axis 725 extending along the second end 705. In at least one example embodiments, the angle 720 is less than about 90°. For example, the angle 720 may be about 45° in some example embodiments.

In at least one example embodiments, the one or more grommets 600 include a circular or cylindrical shape, as shown in FIGS. 6A-7B. In other example embodiments, the one or more grommets 600 include a rectangular, ovular, or other polygonal shape. Additionally, or alternatively, the one or more grommets 600 may have a shape that is the same or substantially the same as a shape of the receptacles 505 of each of the guide members 500.

In at least one example embodiments, the one or more grommets 600 comprise a rubber material. In other example embodiments, the one or more grommets 600 may comprise other suitable materials.

FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-section view of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, the blower housing 108 defines a secondary airflow inlet 800 adjacent the first end 101 of the blower housing 108, an airflow vent 805 adjacent the second end 103 of the blower housing 108, and a cooling pathway 810 between the secondary airflow inlet 800 and the airflow vent 805. The cooling pathway 810 may be fluidly isolated from the airflow conduit 106.

In at least one example embodiment, control electronics 815 are disposed within the blower housing 108 and configured to control the motor 114 and the fan 112. The control electronics 815 may also be disposed within the cooling pathway 810 such that air entering the cooling pathway 810 through the secondary airflow inlet 800 is configured to cool the control electronics 815 and exit the blower 100 through the airflow vent 805.

In at least one example embodiment, the airflow vent 805 includes a plurality of vent holes 820. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 4A, the plurality of vent holes 820 may be disposed adjacent the second end 103 of the blower housing 108. For example, the plurality of vent holes 820 may be adjacent the notch 405 of the blower housing 108.

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-section view of an inlet grate of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, an inlet grate 900 may be disposed adjacent the first end 101 of the blower housing 108. The inlet grate 900 may define a plurality of openings, such as a plurality of passageways 905, extending between a first side 901 and a second side 902 of the inlet grate 900. The plurality of passageways 905 may form at least a portion of the air inlet 102 and each of the plurality of passageways 905 are fluidly coupled with the airflow conduit 106, as shown in FIG. 2.

In at least one example embodiments, the plurality of passageways 905 include an airfoil shape. For example, each of the plurality of passageways 905 taper from the first side 901 to the second side 902 of the inlet grate such that a width of each of the plurality of passageways 905 may decrease from the first side 901 to the second side 902. The tapered design of each of the plurality of passageways 905 improves aerodynamics of the air flowing into the blower 100. For example, the tapered design of each of the plurality of passageways 905 mitigates drag and airflow disruptions as air flows into the blower 100 through the plurality of passageways 905 and along the airflow conduit 106.

In at least one example embodiment, the inlet grate 900 is a unitary or separate component configured to be removably coupled to the first end 101 of the blower housing 108. In other example embodiments, the inlet grate 900 is integral with the first end 101 of the blower housing 108.

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-section view of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, at least one liner is exposed within the blower housing 108 of the blower 100. For example, a first liner 1000 may be disposed between the stator 200 and an outlet adjacent the second end 103 of the blower housing 108.

In at least one example embodiment, the first liner 1000 includes a damper material configured to dampen sound generated by the blower 100. For example, the damper material is configured to reduce noise associated with air flowing through the blower housing 108 generally. Accordingly, the damper material may improve sound quality may be improved and reduce sound volume output by the blower 100. The amount of sound dampening may be adjusted by adjusting a length 1005 of the first liner 1000.

In at least one example embodiment, the first liner 1000 comprises a cylindrical or tubular shape. For example, the first liner 1000 may be coupled adjacent an interior surface of the blower housing 108 and configured to surround an outlet cone 1010 of the airflow generation assembly 110 downstream of the stator 200. The first liner 1000 may also define at least a portion of the airflow conduit 106 adjacent the second end 103 of the blower housing 108. The first liner 1000 may be secured within the blower housing 108 between the stator 200 and the second end 103 of the blower housing 108. For example, the second end 103 of the blower housing 108 may include a flange 1020 extending into the blower housing 108 towards the airflow conduit 106. The flange 1020 may have a cylindrical shape extending about the second end 103 of the blower housing 108. The flange 1020 may be configured to secure the first liner 1000 withing the blower housing 108 adjacent the second end 103 such that the first liner 1000 does not come out during operation or assembly of the blower 100.

In at least one example embodiment, a second liner 1015 may be disposed within the blower housing 108 adjacent the first end 101. For example, the second liner 1015 may be disposed between the air inlet 102 at the first end 101 and the fan 112. The second liner 1015 may be secured within the blower housing 108 between inlet grate 900 and the stator 200 in some example embodiments. In at least one example embodiment, the second liner 1015 includes a damper material, such as the same damper material forming the first liner 1000.

In at least one example embodiment, the second liner 1015 comprises a cylindrical or tubular shape. For example, the second liner 1015 may be coupled to an interior surface of the blower housing 108 and define at least a portion of the airflow conduit 106 adjacent the first end 101.

In at least one example embodiment, the damper material of one or both of the first liner 1000 and the second liner 1015 comprises a foam. For example, the damping material of the first liner 1000 and/or the second liner 1015 may be an open cell material, such as an open cell foam. In some example embodiments, the damper material of the first liner 1000 and/or the second liner 1015 may be formed from a polyurethane foam, such as an open cell polyurethane foam. In other example embodiments, the damping material forming the first liner 1000 and/or the second liner 1015 may be a fiber-based composite or other material, such as a glass-fiber or natural-fiber (such as jute) based composite or other material. In still other example embodiments, the damping material forming the first liner 1000 and/or the second liner 1015 may include other suitable materials.

FIG. 11 illustrates a top view of a blower tube of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, the blower tube 109 of the blower 100 includes an interface configured to receive one or more attachments. The one or more attachments may be removably coupled to the second blower end 113 of the blower tube 109. For example, the second blower end 113 of the blower tube 109 may include a plurality of threads 1100 for engaging and securing the one or more attachments to the blower tube 109. In at least one example embodiments, the one or more attachments include a gutter attachment or other suitable attachment.

FIG. 12 illustrates a detailed, cross-section view of a motor of a blower housing of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, the blower 100 includes a grounding washer 1200 disposed in the blower housing 108. The grounding washer 1200 may be coupled to the motor 114 adjacent the second end 103 of the blower housing 108. For example, the grounding washer 1200 may be between the motor 114 and the outlet cone 1010. In at least one example embodiment, the grounding washer 1200 has a sinusoidal shape. In other example embodiments, the grounding washer 1200 may have a curved, concave, convex, or flat shape.

In at least one example embodiment, the grounding washer 1200 is configured to protect components of the blower 100, such as the control electronics 815, from electric shock. For example, the grounding washer 1200 may protect the control electronics 815 from shock generated by electrostatic discharge.

FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-section view of a handle section of the blower of FIGS. 1A-1B in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In at least one example embodiment, the handle 115 may be coupled to the blower housing 108. In other example embodiments, the handle 115 may be integral with the blower housing 108. A trigger 1305 may be disposed in the handle 115. The trigger 1305 may be electrically coupled to the motor 114, the power source 116, and/or the control electronics 818, and may be configured to control operation of the blower 100 by activating and deactivating the motor 114.

In at least one example embodiment, a grounding wire 1310 is disposed within the handle 115. For example, the grounding wire 1310 is disposed within the handle 115 adjacent the trigger 1305 such that an operator comes in contact with the grounding wire 1310 when operating the blower 100. The grounding wire 1310 is configured to protect the operator from an electrical shock generated by the blower 100. For example, the grounding wire 1310 protects the operator from electrical shock when ingress is experienced by the blower 100.

Further aspects of the invention are provided by one or more of the following embodiments:

A blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet opposite the air inlet and a blower tube removably coupled to the air outlet of the blower housing. The blower housing includes a motor, a fan, a stator adjacent the fan, and a plurality of guide members extending from an interior surface of the blower housing and configured to engage the stator. At least a portion of the blower housing and the blower tube define an airflow conduit.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein each of the plurality of guide members include a receptacle configured to receive a portion of the stator, a first elongated rib extending from the receptacle, and a second elongated rib extending from the receptacle opposite the first elongated rib.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the stator includes one or more grommets coupled to an exterior portion of the stator and the receptacle of each of the plurality of guide members is configured to receive the one or more grommets.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the one or more grommets comprise a rubber material.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the plurality of guide members include at least one first guide member adjacent a first side of the blower housing and at least one second guide member adjacent a second side of the blower housing opposite the first side.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the stator includes two or more grommets coupled to an exterior surface of the stator and a plurality of stator ribs extending from the exterior surface of the stator adjacent the two or more grommets.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the two or more grommets include at least one first grommet adjacent a first side of the stator and at least one second grommet adjacent a second side of the stator opposite the first side.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the blower housing includes a secondary airflow inlet, an airflow vent opposite the secondary airflow inlet and adjacent the air outlet, and a cooling pathway between the secondary airflow inlet and the airflow vent. The cooling pathway is separate from the airflow conduit.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, including control electronics disposed in the cooling pathway and configured to control the motor and the fan. Air entering the cooling pathway through the secondary airflow inlet is configured to cool the control electronic and exit the blower housing through the airflow vent.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, including an inlet grate coupled to the air inlet. The inlet grate defines a plurality of openings and the plurality of openings taper from a first side of the inlet grate to a second side of the inlet grate opposite the first side.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the plurality of openings comprise an airfoil shape.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, including a grounding washer coupled to an end of the motor adjacent the air outlet. The grounding washer includes a sinusoidal shape.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, including a handle coupled to the blower housing and a grounding wire disposed in the handle.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, including a power source removably coupled to the blower housing and electrically coupled to the motor. The power source includes at least one battery.

A blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet opposite the air inlet and a blower tube extending between a first end and a second end. The blower tube includes an inner wall extending from the first end to the second end and an outer wall extending from the first end of the inner wall. The outer wall and the first end of the inner wall are removably coupled to the air outlet of the blower housing.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein a first portion of the outer wall extends from the first end of the outer wall at an angle, a second portion of the outer wall extends from the first portion parallel to the inner wall, and an interior surface of the second portion of the outer wall is configured to cover an exterior surface of the blower housing adjacent the air outlet.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein at least a portion of the outer wall is concentric with the first end of the inner wall.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein at least a portion of an exterior surface of the blower tube includes a plurality of threads adjacent the second end.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, further comprising at least one tool attachment configured to be removably coupled to the second end of blower tube via the plurality of threads.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the blower housing comprises a protrusion extending from an exterior surface of the blower housing adjacent the air outlet and the blower tube comprises a fastener configured to engage the protrusion and secure the blower tube to the blower housing.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the fastener comprises a lever coupled to the blower tube via a rod. The lever extends between a first end and a second end and is rotatable about the rod. A biasing member adjacent the second end biases the lever between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The first end of the lever engages the protrusion of the blower housing in the engaged position.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the blower tube includes an extension extending from the first end of the blower tub and the blower housing includes a notch adjacent the air outlet. The notch is configured to receive the extension of the blower tube.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the extension extends from the outer wall of the blower tube and the extension includes a substantially flat surface.

A blower includes a blower housing defining an air inlet, an air outlet, and an airflow conduit between the air inlet and the air outlet. The blower includes a fan within the blower housing, a stator within the blower housing adjacent the fan, and at least one liner within the blower housing between the stator and the air outlet. The at least one liner is formed from a damper material.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the damper material comprises a foam.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the at least one liner includes a tubular shape.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the at least one liner is coupled to an interior surface of the blower housing and defines at least a portion of the airflow conduit.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the at least one liner comprises a first liner and the blower further includes a second liner within the blower housing between the air inlet and the fan. The second liner is formed from the damper material.

The blower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the second liner comprises a tubular shape. The second liner is coupled to an interior surface of the blower housing and defines at least a portion of the airflow conduit.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

	Number	Date	Country
	63542108	Oct 2023	US
	63610914	Dec 2023	US

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