CLEANER

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present application claims priority to and incorporates by reference the entire contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-151723 filed in Japan on Sep. 19, 2023.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The techniques disclosed in the present specification relate to a cleaner.

BACKGROUND ART

A known portable cleaner is disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6347196 B2 is known. In Japanese Patent No. 6347196, a portable cleaner includes a filter device. In Japanese Patent No. 6347196, the filter device is fixed to a housing by being rotated in a first direction, and is detached from the housing by being rotated in a second direction. Further, in Japanese Patent No. 6347196, a rotation stop mechanism is provided to prevent the filter device attached to the housing from being further rotated in the first direction.

In order to improve user's usability of a cleaner, there is a demand for a technique that allows the filter device to be easily attached to or detached from the housing.

SUMMARY

One non-limiting object of the present teachings is to disclose techniques for improving usability of a cleaner.

In one non-limiting aspect of the present teachings, a cleaner includes: a main body housing; a dust collecting housing detachably attached to the main body housing and having an air-intake port; a suction assembly housed in the main body housing and configured to generate a suction force to suck in dust with air through the air-intake port; a first filter unit housed in the dust collecting housing, the first filter including a first filter to which air sucked through the air-intake port is supplied and a first support member that supports the first filter; a filter support mechanism configured to fix the first filter unit to the main body housing at a fixed position in a rotation direction when the first filter unit is rotated in a normal rotation direction with respect to the main body housing; and a reverse rotation limiting mechanism configured to restrict the first filter unit from being rotated beyond a limit angle from the fixed position in a reverse rotation direction.

According to the techniques disclosed in the present specification, usability of a cleaner can be improved.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view illustrating a cleaner according to a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the cleaner as viewed from a right side according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the cleaner according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 4 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating the cleaner according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a front portion of a main body housing and a filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view illustrating the front portion of the main body housing and the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the front portion of the main body housing and the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly as viewed from a right side according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly as viewed from a rear side according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly as viewed from the front side according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a transverse cross-sectional view illustrating the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a transverse cross-sectional view illustrating the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 16 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 17 is an exploded rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 18 is a front perspective view illustrating a rear portion of a first filter unit according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 19 is a diagram of the rear portion of the first filter unit as viewed from above according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 20 is a front perspective view illustrating a rear portion of a second filter unit according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 21 is a diagram of the rear portion of the second filter unit as viewed from above according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating a method of assembling the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating a method of attaching the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 24 is a front view illustrating the method of attaching the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 25 is a front view illustrating the method of attaching the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 26 is a front view illustrating the method of attaching the filter assembly according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 27 is a front view illustrating a collar part immediately before entering a support groove according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view illustrating the collar part immediately after entering the support groove according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view illustrating a part of the filter assembly fixed to the main body housing according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view illustrating a reverse rotation limiting mechanism according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 31 is a front perspective view illustrating a filter assembly according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 32 is a rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly viewed from a right side according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly as viewed from a rear side according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 35 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the filter assembly according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 36 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 37 is an exploded rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view illustrating a method of assembling the filter assembly according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 39 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a front portion of a main body housing and a filter assembly according to a third embodiment;

FIG. 40 is a front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the third embodiment;

FIG. 41 is a rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the third embodiment;

FIG. 42 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly as viewed from a right side according to the third embodiment;

FIG. 43 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly as viewed from a rear side according to the third embodiment;

FIG. 44 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly as viewed from a front side according to the third embodiment;

FIG. 45 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the third embodiment;

FIG. 46 is an exploded rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the third embodiment;

FIG. 47 is a diagram illustrating the main body housing to which the filter assembly is attached as viewed from the front side of according to a third embodiment;

FIG. 48 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a front portion of a main body housing and a filter assembly according to a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 49 is a front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment;

FIG. 50 is a rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment;

FIG. 51 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly as viewed from a right side according to the fourth embodiment;

FIG. 52 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly as viewed from a rear side according to the fourth embodiment;

FIG. 53 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly as viewed from a front side according to the fourth embodiment;

FIG. 54 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment;

FIG. 55 is an exploded rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment; and

FIG. 56 is a perspective view illustrating a method of assembling the filter assembly according to the fourth embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In one or more embodiments, a cleaner includes: a main body housing; a dust collecting housing detachably attached to the main body housing and having an air-intake port; a suction assembly housed in the main body housing and configured to generate a suction force to suck in dust with air through the air-intake port; a first filter unit housed in the dust collecting housing, the first filter including a first filter to which air sucked through the air-intake port is supplied and a first support member that supports the first filter; a filter support mechanism configured to fix the first filter unit to the main body housing at a fixed position in a rotation direction when the first filter unit is rotated in a normal rotation direction with respect to the main body housing; and a reverse rotation limiting mechanism configured to restrict the first filter unit from being rotated beyond a limit angle from the fixed position in a reverse rotation direction.

In the above configuration, since the rotation of the first filter unit in the reverse rotation direction is restricted, excessive variation in a relative position between the first filter unit and the main body housing in the rotation direction is suppressed when the first filter unit is attached to or detached from the main body housing. In other words, when the first filter unit is attached to or detached from the main body housing, it is easy to position the first filter unit and the main body housing in the rotation direction. The first filter unit is smoothly attached to the main body housing by being rotated in the normal rotation direction. Therefore, good workability is achieved when the first filter unit is attached to or detached from the main body housing. Accordingly, usability of the cleaner is improved.

In one or more embodiments, the filter support mechanism releases the first filter unit from the main body housing when the first filter unit is rotated by a release angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit is smoothly detached from the main body housing by being rotated in the reverse rotation direction.

In one or more embodiments, the limit angle includes the release angle.

In the above configuration, since the release angle is equal to the limit angle, the first filter unit is prevented from being rotated beyond the release angle in the reverse rotation direction when the first filter unit is detached from the main body housing. In other words, when the first filter unit is detached from the main body housing, unnecessary rotation of the first filter unit beyond the release angle is suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, the first support member includes: a first rear support part that supports a rear end portion of the first filter; and a collar part that protrudes radially outward from the first rear support part. The main body housing includes: a front plate part disposed on a front portion of the main body housing and having a suction port; an inner cylindrical part disposed so as to surround the suction port; an outer cylindrical part disposed so as to surround the inner cylindrical part; and an engagement part protruding radially inward from an inner surface of the outer cylindrical part. The inner cylindrical part is surrounded by the first rear support part, and the outer cylindrical part is surrounded by the rear end portion of the dust collecting housing. A support groove is provided between a rear surface of the engagement part and a front surface of the front plate part. The filter support mechanism includes the collar part. The first filter unit is fixed at the fixed position when the first filter unit is rotated in the normal rotation direction with respect to the main body housing and the collar part is inserted into the support groove.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit is fixed to the main body housing by being rotated in the normal rotation direction.

In one or more embodiments, the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a portion of the first rear support part that makes contact with the engagement part when the first filter unit is in a state of being rotated by the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

In the above configuration, since the first rear support part has a shape that comes into contact with the engagement part when the first filter unit is rotated by the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction, the first filter unit is restricted from being rotated beyond the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

In one or more embodiments, the cleaner includes a normal rotation limiting mechanism that restricts the first filter unit from rotating from the fixed position in the normal rotation direction.

In the above configuration, when the first filter unit is attached to the main body housing, unnecessary rotation of the first filter unit beyond the fixed position is suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, the normal rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a portion of the first rear support part that makes contact with the engagement part when the first filter unit is in a state of being located at the fixed position.

In the above configuration, since the first rear support part has the shape that comes into contact with the engagement part when the first filter unit is located at the fixed position, the first filter unit is restricted from being rotated beyond the fixed position.

In one or more embodiments, the first rear support part includes: a pair of straight parts arranged at point-symmetrical positions with respect to a rotation axis of the first filter unit and parallel to each other; and a pair of arc parts arranged adjacent to the straight parts in the rotation direction. A pair of collar parts is provided so as to be arranged adjacent to the arc parts in the rotation direction. A pair of engagement parts is provided in the rotation direction. The collar parts are inserted into the support groove when the first filter unit is rotated in the normal rotation direction after the first rear support part is inserted into the outer cylindrical part such that the straight parts and the engagement parts coincide in position with each other.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit can be smoothly attached to the main body housing by being rotated in the normal rotation direction.

In one or more embodiments, the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes the straight parts that make contact with the engagement parts when the first filter unit is in a state of being rotated by the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

In the above configuration, since the first rear support part includes the straight parts that come into contact with the engagement parts when the first filter unit is rotated by the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction, the first filter unit is restricted from being rotated beyond the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

In one or more embodiments, the first rear support part includes an inclined part that is disposed forward of the collar part and is inclined radially inward in the normal rotation direction. The normal rotation limiting mechanism includes the inclined part that makes contact with the engagement part when the first filter unit is in a state of being disposed at the fixed position.

In the above configuration, since the first rear support part has the inclined part that makes contact with the engagement part when the first filter unit is located at the fixed position, the first filter unit is restricted from being rotated beyond the fixed position.

In one or more embodiments, the cleaner includes a second filter unit having a second filter to which air that has passed through the first filter is supplied and a second support member that supports the second filter. The second filter unit is fixed to the first filter unit in a state that the second filter unit is disposed inside the first filter unit.

In the above configuration, since the first filter unit and the second filter unit are fixed to each other, the first filter unit is fixed to the main body housing, whereby the second filter unit is fixed to the main body housing via the first filter unit.

In one or more embodiments, the second support member includes a second rear support part that supports a rear end portion of the second filter. The second rear support part includes a cylinder part and a plurality of protrusions protruding radially outward from the cylinder part. The second filter unit is fixed to the first filter unit with the protrusions fitting inside the first rear support part.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit and the second filter unit are appropriately fixed.

In one or more embodiments, the second support member includes a second rear support part that supports a rear end portion of the second filter. The second rear support part includes a cylinder part and an annular flange part protruding radially outward from the cylinder part. The second filter unit is fixed to the first filter unit with the flange part fitting inside the first rear support part.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit and the second filter unit are appropriately fixed.

In one or more embodiments, the second rear support part includes an annular sealing part provided at a rear of the cylinder part. The annular sealing part makes contact with the front surface of the front plate part.

In the above configuration, a boundary between the filter assembly, including the first filter unit and the second filter unit, and the main body housing is sealed.

In one or more embodiments, the first support member includes a first front support part that supports a front end portion of the first filter. The second support member includes a second front support part that supports a front end portion of the second filter. The second front support part is fixed to the first front support part in a state of being disposed inside the first front support part.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit and the second filter unit are appropriately fixed.

In one or more embodiments, the first front support part includes: an annular part surrounding the second front support part; and a plurality of projections projecting radially inward from an inner surface of the annular part. The second front support part is fixed to the first front support part with the second front support part fitting inside the projections.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit and the second filter unit are appropriately fixed.

In one or more embodiments, the first filter unit is fixed to the main body housing in a state where the second filter unit is fixed to the first filter unit.

In the above configuration, the filter assembly, including the first filter unit and the second filter unit, and the main body housing are appropriately fixed.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiment, a positional relationship of each part will be described using terms of “front”, “rear”, “left”, “right”, “up”, and “down”. These terms indicate relative positions or directions with respect to a center of a cleaner 1.

The cleaner 1 includes a fan motor 3A. A rotor of the fan motor 3A rotates about a rotation axis AX. In the embodiments, a radiation direction of the rotation axis AX is referred to as a radial direction as appropriate. A direction around the rotation axis AX is referred to as a circumferential direction or a rotation direction as appropriate. A direction parallel to the rotation axis AX is referred to as an axial direction as appropriate.

In the radial direction, a position close to or a direction approaching the rotation axis AX is referred to as a radially inward direction or an inner direction as appropriate, and a position far from or a direction away from the rotation axis AX is referred to as a radially outward direction or an outer direction as appropriate. A position on one side or a direction on one side in the circumferential direction is referred to as a normal rotation side or a normal rotation direction as appropriate, and a position on the other side or a direction on the other side in the circumferential direction is referred to as a reverse rotation side or a reverse rotation direction as appropriate. A position on one side or a direction on one side in the axial direction is referred to as a front side or a front direction as appropriate, and a position on the other side or a direction on the other side in the axial direction is referred to as a rear side or a rear direction as appropriate.

First Embodiment

A first embodiment will be described.

Cleaner

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view illustrating a cleaner 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the cleaner 1 as viewed from a right side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the cleaner 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating the cleaner 1 according to the present embodiment.

The cleaner 1 includes a housing 2, a suction assembly 3, a filter assembly 4, a battery mounting unit 6, a controller 7, and an interface device 8.

The housing 2 has a handle 9 that is gripped by a user of the cleaner 1. The cleaner 1 is a handy cleaner capable of performing a cleaning work in a state where the handle 9 is gripped by the user.

The housing 2 houses the suction assembly 3, the filter assembly 4, and the controller 7. The housing 2 has an air-intake port 10 and air-exhaust ports 11. The air-intake port 10 is provided at a front end of the housing 2. The exhaust ports 11 are provided on both left and right sides of the rear of the housing 2. The air-intake port 10 connects an external space and an internal space of the housing 2. The exhaust ports 11 connect the internal space and the external space of the housing 2.

The housing 2 includes a dust collecting housing 21 and a main body housing 22. The handle 9 is provided on the main body housing 22. The main body housing 22 is disposed rearward of the dust collecting housing 21. The dust collecting housing 21 is detachably attached to the main body housing 22. In the embodiment, the dust collecting housing 21 is detachably attached to a front end of the main body housing 22.

The suction assembly 3 and the controller 7 are housed in the main body housing 22. The battery mounting unit 6 is disposed on the main body housing 22. The filter assembly 4 is housed in the dust collecting housing 21.

The air-intake port 10 is provided at a front end of the dust collecting housing 21. In the embodiment, a connection pipe 16 is provided at a front portion of the dust collecting housing 21. The air-intake port 10 is provided at a front end of the connection pipe 16.

The main body housing 22 includes a left housing 22L and a right housing 22R. The left housing 22L is disposed leftward of the right housing 22R. The left housing 22L and the right housing 22R are fixed by a plurality of screws (not illustrated). The exhaust ports 11 are provided on the main body housing 22. The exhaust ports 11 are provided on the left housing 22L and the right housing 22R, respectively.

The suction assembly 3 generates a suction force to suck in dust with air through the air-intake port 10. The suction assembly 3 includes a fan motor 3A and a control board 3B. The fan motor 3A includes a motor and a fan rotated by the motor. The fan is disposed forward of the motor. The fan rotates about the rotation axis AX by a rotational force generated by the motor. The fan is a centrifugal fan. The control board 3B outputs control signals for controlling the motor. The control board 3B includes, for example, a field effect transistor (FET).

A cover 12 is arranged around the suction assembly 3. The cover 12 houses the suction assembly 3. The cover 12 is fixed to the main body housing 22. The suction assembly 3 is supported by the main body housing 22 via the cover 12. The cover 12 has an inlet 13 and an outlet 14. The inlet 13 is provided at a front end of the cover 12. The outlet 14 is provided rearward of the inlet 13.

The filter assembly 4 collects dust in air sucked through the air-intake port 10. The filter assembly 4 is disposed between the air-intake port 10 and the suction assembly 3 in an internal space of the housing 2. The filter assembly 4 includes a first filter unit 30 and a second filter unit 50. Air sucked into the internal space of the housing 2 through the air-intake port 10 is supplied to the first filter unit 30. Air that has passed through the first filter unit 30 is supplied to the second filter unit 50. The first filter unit 30 collects dust in the air flowing into the internal space of the housing 2 via the air-intake port 10. The second filter unit 50 collects dust that has not been collected by the first filter unit 30.

The battery mounting unit 6 is disposed in a lower portion of the rear portion of the housing 2. A battery pack 5 is mounted on the battery mounting unit 6. The battery pack 5 is detachably attached to the battery mounting unit 6.

The battery pack 5 functions as a power supply of the cleaner 1. The battery pack 5 is mounted in the battery mounting unit 6 to supply power to the cleaner 1. The motor of the fan motor 3A is driven with power supplied from the battery pack 5. The controller 7 operates with power supplied from the battery pack 5. The battery pack 5 is a general-purpose battery that can be used as a power supply of various electric apparatuses. The battery pack 5 can be used as a power supply of a power tool. The battery pack 5 can be used as a power supply of an electric apparatus other than the power tool. The battery pack 5 can be used as a power supply of a cleaner different from the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment. The battery pack 5 includes a lithium ion battery. The battery pack 5 includes a rechargeable secondary battery. The battery mounting unit 6 has a configuration equivalent to that of a battery mounting unit of the power tool.

The user of the cleaner 1 can mount the battery pack 5 on the battery mounting unit 6 and remove the battery pack 5 from the battery mounting unit 6. The battery mounting unit 6 includes a guide and a main body terminal. The battery pack 5 has a battery terminal. The guide of the battery mounting unit 6 guides the battery pack 5. The main body terminal of the battery mounting unit 6 is connected to the battery terminal of the battery pack 5. The user can mount the battery pack 5 on the battery mounting unit 6 by inserting the battery pack 5 into the battery mounting unit 6 from the rear side. The battery pack 5 is inserted into the battery mounting unit 6 while being guided by the guide. When the battery pack 5 is mounted on the battery mounting unit 6, the battery terminal of the battery pack 5 and the main body terminal of the battery mounting unit 6 are electrically connected to each other. The battery pack 5 has a fixing release button. The user of the cleaner 1 operates (pushes) the fixing release button of the battery pack 5 to move the battery pack 5 to the rear side, thereby detaching the battery pack 5 from the battery mounting unit 6.

The controller 7 controls an electric member mounted on the cleaner 1. The controller 7 controls the motor of the fan motor 3A via the control board 3B. The controller 7 controls a drive current supplied from the battery pack 5 to the motor. The controller 7 and the control board 3B are connected via a cable. Examples of the cable include a power cable for supplying power from the battery pack 5 to the motor and a signal cable for supplying a control signal to the control board 3B. The controller 7 includes a board on which a plurality of electronic components is mounted. Examples of the electronic components mounted on the board include a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU), a nonvolatile memory such as a read only memory (ROM) or a storage, a volatile memory such as a random access memory (RAM), and a resistor.

The interface device 8 is provided on the handle 9. The interface device 8 includes a drive button, a mode switching button, and a display unit. The drive button and the mode switching button are operated by the user. The user can operate the drive button and the mode switching button while gripping the handle 9.

When the drive button is operated while the motor of the fan motor 3A is stopped, the motor starts to be driven. When the mode switching button is operated while the motor is driven, a rotation speed of the motor is adjusted in four stages. The suction force at the air-intake port 10 is changed by changing the rotation speed of the motor. When the drive button is operated while the motor is driven, the motor stops. The display unit includes a plurality of light emitting parts. As the light emitting part, a light emitting diode (LED) is exemplified. Each of the four light emitting parts is turned on and turned off based on the rotation speed of the motor.

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a front portion of the main body housing 22 and the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 corresponds to an enlarged view of a part of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view illustrating the front portion of the main body housing 22 and the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 6 corresponds to a cross-sectional view of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the front portion of the main body housing 22 and the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment.

The main body housing 22 includes an annular front plate part 24 having a suction port 23 of the main body housing 22, an inner cylindrical part 25 disposed to surround the suction port 23, an outer cylindrical part 26 disposed to surround the inner cylindrical part 25, and engagement parts 27 protruding radially inward from an inner surface of the outer cylindrical part 26.

The front plate part 24 is disposed on the front portion of the main body housing 22. The front plate part 24 has an annular shape. The suction port 23 is provided in the front portion of the main body housing 22. The inlet 13 on the cover 12 is disposed in the suction port 23.

The inner cylindrical part 25 protrudes forward from a front surface of the front plate part 24. The inner cylindrical part 25 is surrounded by a rear end portion of the first filter unit 30.

The outer cylindrical part 26 protrudes forward from the front surface of the front plate part 24. The outer cylindrical part 26 is surrounded by a rear end portion of the dust collecting housing 21.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, an opening 15 is provided at the rear end portion of the dust collecting housing 21. The outer cylindrical part 26 of the main body housing 22 is inserted into the opening 15 of the dust collecting housing 21. The outer cylindrical part 26 is surrounded by the rear end portion of the dust collecting housing 21. The dust collecting housing 21 is attached to the main body housing 22 by inserting the outer cylindrical part 26 of the main body housing 22 into the opening 15 of the dust collecting housing 21.

The engagement parts 27 protrudes radially inward from the inner surface of the outer cylindrical part 26. A pair of the engagement parts 27 is provided in the rotation direction. One engagement part 27 is connected to an upper portion of the inner surface of the outer cylindrical part. The other engagement part 27 is connected to a lower portion of the inner surface of the outer cylindrical part. The engagement parts 27 are disposed forward of the front plate part 24. In the following description, one engagement part 27 is referred to as an upper engagement part 27 as appropriate, and the other engagement part 27 is referred to as a lower engagement part 27 as appropriate.

Support grooves 28 are provided between a rear surface of each of the engagement parts 27 and the front surface of the front plate part 24. A pair of the support grooves 28 is provided. One support groove 28 is provided between the rear surface of the upper engagement part 27 and an upper portion of the front surface of the front plate part 24. The other support groove 28 is provided between the rear surface of the lower engagement part 27 and a lower portion of the front surface of the front plate part 24. In the following description, one support groove 28 is referred to as an upper support groove 28 as appropriate, and the other support groove 28 is referred to as a lower support groove 28 as appropriate.

Filter Assembly

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly 4 as viewed from the right side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly 4 as viewed from the rear side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly 4 as viewed from the front side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 14 is a transverse cross-sectional view illustrating the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment and corresponds to a cross-sectional arrow view taken along line A-A of FIG. 10. FIG. 15 is a transverse cross-sectional view illustrating the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment and corresponds to a cross-sectional arrow view taken along line B-B of FIG. 10. FIG. 16 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 17 is an exploded rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 18 is a front perspective view illustrating a rear portion of the first filter unit according to the present embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating the rear portion of the first filter unit as viewed from above according to the present embodiment. FIG. 20 is a front perspective view illustrating a rear portion of the second filter unit according to the present embodiment. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating the rear portion of the second filter unit as viewed from above according to the present embodiment.

The filter assembly 4 includes the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 (see FIG. 16). The filter assembly 4 is attached to the main body housing 22 by being rotated with respect to the main body housing 22. In the embodiment, the rotation axis of the filter assembly 4 is coaxial with the rotation axis AX of the fan motor 3A. Note that the rotation axis of the filter assembly 4 may be deviated from the rotation axis AX of the fan motor 3A.

The first filter unit 30 includes a first filter 31 and a first support member 32 that supports the first filter 31. Note that the first filter 31 is indicated by dotted lines as imaginary lines in FIGS. 8, 9, 16, and 17, and illustration of the first filter 31 is omitted in other drawings.

The first filter 31 is a mesh filter. The first filter 31 includes a cylinder 31A and a front 31B disposed at a front end portion of the cylinder 31A. Air sucked through the air-intake port 10 is supplied to the first filter 31. The first filter 31 collects dust in the air sucked through the air-intake port 10.

The first support member 32 supports the first filter 31. The first support member 32 includes: an annular first rear support part 33 that supports the rear end portion of the first filter unit 30; an annular first front support part 34 that supports the front end portion of the first filter unit 30; a plurality of linear parts 35 that connects the first rear support part 33 and the first front support part 34; and a plurality of linear parts 36 disposed inside the first front support part 34.

In a state where the filter assembly 4 is fixed to the main body housing 22, the inner cylindrical part 25 of the main body housing 22 is surrounded by the first rear support part 33.

The first rear support part 33 includes: a pair of straight parts 37 arranged at point-symmetrical positions with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30 and parallel to each other when viewed from the rear side; a pair of arc parts 38 arranged adjacent to the straight parts 37 in the rotation direction; a pair of flat parts 39 arranged adjacent to the arc parts 38 in the rotation direction; a pair of collar parts 40 protruding radially outward from the flat parts 39; and a pair of inclined parts 41 arranged forward of the collar parts 40 and inclined radially inward in the normal rotation direction (see FIGS. 12 and 18, for example). The arc parts 38 are disposed adjacent to the straight parts 37 in the normal rotation direction. The collar parts 40 are disposed adjacent to the arc parts 38 in the normal rotation direction.

The straight parts 37 constitute a portion of an outer periphery of the first rear support part 33. Each of the straight part 37 is provided so as to extend in a tangential direction of a virtual circle centered on the rotation axis AX in a plane orthogonal to the rotation axis AX.

The arc parts 38 constitutes a portion of the outer periphery of the first rear support part 33. The arc parts 38 are provided so as to bulge radially outward in the plane orthogonal to the rotation axis AX. The arc parts 38 are point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30 when viewed from the rear side.

The flat parts 39 constitute a portion of the outer periphery of the first rear support part 33. The flat parts 39 are point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30.

The collar parts 40 are point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30 when viewed from the rear side. The inclined parts 41 are point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30 when viewed from the rear side.

Axial dimensions of the straight part 37 and the arc part 38 are a first dimension Da. The axial dimension of the flat part 39 is a second dimension Db smaller than the first dimension Da.

The first front support part 34 includes: an annular part 42; a circular part 43; and a plurality of projections 44 projecting radially inward from an inner surface of the annular part 42 (see FIG. 16, for example).

The second filter unit 50 includes a second filter 51 and a second support member 52 that supports the second filter 51.

The second filter 51 is a HEPA filter. The second filter 51 has a cylindrical shape. Air that has passed through the first filter 31 is supplied to the second filter 51. The second filter 51 collects dust that has not been collected by the first filter 31.

The second support member 52 supports the second filter 51. The second support member 52 includes: a second rear support part 53 that supports a rear end portion of the second filter 51; and a second front support part 54 that supports a front end portion of the second filter 51.

The second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30. The second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30 in a state of being arranged inside the first filter unit 30.

The second rear support part 53 is fixed to the first rear support part 33 in a state where the second rear support part 53 is disposed inside the first rear support part 33. The second front support part 54 is fixed to the first front support part 34 in a state of being arranged inside the first front support part 34.

The second rear support part 53 includes: a cylinder part 55; a plurality of protrusions 56 protruding radially outward from the cylinder part 55; and an annular sealing part 57 provided at a rear portion of the cylinder part 55. In a state where the filter assembly 4 is fixed to the main body housing 22, the sealing part 57 makes contact with the front surface of the front plate part 24. Method of Assembling Filter Assembly

Next, a method of assembling and attaching the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating a method of assembling the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 22, when assembling the filter assembly 4, the second filter unit 50 is inserted into the first filter unit 30 from the rear of the first filter unit 30. The second filter unit 50 is inserted into the first filter unit 30 such that the second front support part 54 is surrounded by the annular part 42 of the first front support part 34. The second front support part 54 is supported by the projections 44. The second front support part 54 fits inside the projections 44. The second front support part 54 is fixed to the first front support part 34 with the second front support part 54 fitting inside the plurality of projections 44. The protrusions 56 of the second rear support part 53 fit inside the first rear support part 33. The second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30 with the protrusions 56 fitting inside the first rear support part 33.

The filter assembly 4 is attached to the main body housing 22 in a state where the second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30. The filter assembly 4 is fixed to the main body housing 22 by fixing the first filter unit 30 to the main body housing 22 in a state where the second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, in the state where the second filter unit 50 is fixed to the main body housing together with the first filter unit 30, the inner cylindrical part 25 of the main body housing 22 is surrounded by the first rear support part 33 of the first support member 32. In the state where the second filter unit 50 is fixed to the main body housing 22 together with the first filter unit 30, the sealing part 57 is brought into close contact with the front surface of the front plate part 24. In the state where the second filter unit 50 is fixed to the main body housing 22 together with the first filter unit 30, a boundary between the main body housing 22 and the second filter unit 50 is sealed by the sealing part 57 having an annular shape provided at the rear of the cylinder part 55.

Method of Attaching Filter Assembly

Next, a method of attaching the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment to the main body housing 22 will be described. FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating a method of attaching the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 24 is a front view illustrating the method of attaching the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 25 is a front view illustrating the method of attaching the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 26 is a front view illustrating the method of attaching the filter assembly 4 according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 24, a rear end portion of the first support member 32 is inserted into the outer cylindrical part 26 such that the straight parts 37 and the engagement parts 27 coincide in position with each other. In other words, the rear end portion of the first support member 32 is inserted into the outer cylindrical part 26 such that an outer surface of each of the straight parts 37 and an inner surface of each of the engagement parts 27 face each other.

As illustrated in FIG. 25, after the rear end portion of the first filter unit 30 is inserted into the outer cylindrical part 26, the first filter unit 30 is rotated in the normal rotation direction. The second filter unit 50 rotates in the normal rotation direction together with the first filter unit 30.

When the first filter unit 30 is rotated in the normal rotation direction with respect to the main body housing 22 as illustrated in FIG. 26, the pair of collar parts 40 protruding radially outward from the rear end portion of the first support member 32 is inserted into the pair of support grooves 28 of the main body housing 22.

FIG. 27 is a front view illustrating the collar part 40 immediately before entering the support groove 28 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 28 is a perspective view illustrating the collar part 40 immediately after entering the support groove 28 according to the present embodiment.

The rear end portion of the first support member 32 is elastically deformed in the radial direction. When the collar part 40 enters the support groove 28, the rear end portion of the first support member 32 is elastically deformed so as to bend radially inward. As illustrated in FIG. 28, when the filter assembly 4 is further rotated in the normal rotation direction from a state where an edge of the collar part 40 in the normal rotation direction is in contact with an inner surface of the support groove 28, the rear end portion of the first support member 32 is elastically deformed so as to bend radially inward.

After the filter assembly 4 is further rotated in the normal rotation direction and the collar part 40 is sufficiently inserted into the support groove 28, the rear end portion of the first support member 32 is elastically deformed radially outward such that the collar part 40 approaches the inner surface of the support groove 28. A click feeling is obtained by the rear end portion of the first support member 32 being elastically deformed radially outward.

As such, the collar parts 40 are inserted into the support grooves 28, whereby the filter assembly 4 is attached to the main body housing 22. The collar parts 40 are inserted into the support grooves 28, whereby the filter assembly 4 is fixed at a fixed position in the rotation direction. The filter assembly 4 is rotated in the normal rotation direction with respect to the main body housing 22, whereby the collar parts 40 function as a filter support mechanism that fixes the filter assembly 4 at the fixed position in the rotation direction.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the filter assembly 4 fixed to the main body housing 22 according to the present embodiment. As illustrated in FIGS. 26 and 29, at least a portion of the first rear support part 33 comes into contact with the engagement part 27 in a state where the collar part 40 is inserted into the support groove 28 and the filter assembly 4 is disposed at the fixed position. In the embodiment, in the state where the filter assembly 4 is disposed at the fixed position, the outer surface of the inclined part 41 makes contact with the inner surface of the engagement part 27. The contact of the outer surface of the inclined part 41 with the inner surface of the engagement part 27 restricts further rotation of the filter assembly 4 in the normal rotation direction from the fixed position. The inclined parts 41 function as the normal rotation limiting mechanism that restricts the filter assembly 4 from rotating in the normal rotation direction from the fixed position.

When the filter assembly 4 is rotated by the release angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction, the collar parts 40 serving as the filter support mechanism release the filter assembly 4 from the main body housing 22. In other words, the collar parts 40 are detached from the support groove 28 when the filter assembly 4 is rotated by about 90 degrees from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction so as to change from the state illustrated in FIG. 26 to the state illustrated in FIG. 24. Thus, the filter assembly 4 is released from the main body housing 22. In the embodiment, the release angle is about 90 degrees.

In the embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes the reverse rotation limiting mechanism that restricts the filter assembly 4 from rotating beyond the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction. In the embodiment, the limit angle includes the release angle described above (i.e., the release angle is equal to the limit angle). In other words, the limit angle is set to 90 degrees, and the reverse rotation limiting mechanism restricts the filter assembly 4 from rotating beyond 90 degrees from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction. The limit angle may be larger than the release angle. The reverse rotation limiting mechanism may restrict the filter assembly 4 from rotating beyond 100 degrees, for example, from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view illustrating the reverse rotation limiting mechanism according to the present embodiment. The reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a portion of the first rear support part 33 that comes into contact with the inner surface of the engagement part 27 when the first filter unit 30 is rotated by the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction. In the embodiment, the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes the straight part 37 that comes into contact with the inner surface of the engagement part 27 when the first filter unit 30 is rotated by the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction. Note that the reverse rotation limiting mechanism may include a boundary between the arc part 38 and the straight part 37, or may include the arc part 38.

As illustrated in FIG. 30, even when the filter assembly 4 is attempted to be rotated beyond 90 degrees from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction, the straight part 37 having the first dimension Da comes into contact with the inner surface of the engagement part 27, so that the filter assembly 4 cannot be rotated beyond 90 degrees (i.e., beyond the limit angle) from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

Operation of Cleaner

When the drive button of the interface device 8 is operated and the fan motor 3A is driven, the fan motor 3A rotates. When the fan motor 3A rotates, the suction force is generated at the air-intake port 10. When the suction force is generated at the air-intake port 10, air in the external space of the housing 2 is sucked through the air-intake port 10 together with dust. The air sucked through the air-intake port 10 flows into the internal space of the housing 2. The air flowing into the internal space of the housing 2 passes through the first filter 31. The first filter 31 collects dust contained in the air. The air having passed through the first filter 31 passes through the second filter 51. The second filter 51 collects dust that has not been collected by the first filter 31. The air having passed through the second filter 51 passes through the inlet 13 of the cover 12, passes through the fan motor 3A, and then passes through the outlet 14 of the cover 12. The air flowing out from the outlet 14 is discharged from the air exhaust ports 11 to the external space of the housing 2.

Effects

As described above, in the present embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes: the main body housing 22; the dust collecting housing 21 that is detachably attached to the main body housing 22 and has the air-intake port 10; the suction assembly 3 that is housed in the main body housing 22 and generates the suction force to suck in dust with air through the air-intake port 10; the first filter unit 30 that is housed in the dust collecting housing 21 and has the first filter 31 to which air sucked through the air-intake port 10 is supplied and the first support member 32 that supports the first filter 31; the filter support mechanism that fixes the first filter unit 30 to the main body housing 22 at the fixed position in the rotation direction when the first filter unit 30 is rotated in the normal rotation direction with respect to the main body housing 22; and the reverse rotation limiting mechanism that restricts the first filter unit 30 from being rotated beyond the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

In the above configuration, since the rotation of the first filter unit 30 in the reverse rotation direction is limited, excessive variation in the relative position between the first filter unit 30 and the main body housing 22 in the rotation direction is suppressed when the first filter unit 30 is attached to the main body housing 22 or detached from the main body housing 22. In other words, when the first filter unit 30 is attached to the main body housing 22 or detached from the main body housing 22, it is easy to position the first filter unit 30 and the main body housing 22 in the rotation direction. The first filter unit 30 is smoothly attached to the main body housing 22 by being rotated in the normal rotation direction. Therefore, good workability is achieved when the first filter unit 30 is attached to the main body housing 22 or detached from the main body housing 22. Accordingly, usability of the cleaner 1 is improved.

In the present embodiment, the filter support mechanism releases the first filter unit 30 from the main body housing 22 when the first filter unit 30 is rotated by the release angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 is smoothly removed from the main body housing 22 by being rotated in the reverse rotation direction.

In the present embodiment, the limit angle includes the release angle.

In the above configuration, since the release angle is equal to the limit angle, the first filter unit 30 is prevented from being rotated beyond the release angle in the reverse rotation direction when the first filter unit 30 is detached from the main body housing 22. In other words, when the first filter unit 30 is detached from the main body housing 22, unnecessary rotation of the first filter unit 30 beyond the release angle is suppressed.

In the present embodiment, the first support member 32 includes: the first rear support part 33 that supports the rear end portion of the first filter 31; and the collar part 40 that protrudes radially outward from the first rear support part 33. The main body housing 22 includes: the front plate part 24 disposed on the front portion of the main body housing 22 and having the suction port 23; the inner cylindrical part 25 disposed so as to surround the suction port 23; the outer cylindrical part 26 disposed so as to surround the inner cylindrical part 25; and the engagement part 27 protruding radially inward from the inner surface of the outer cylindrical part 26. The inner cylindrical part 25 is surrounded by the first rear support part 33, and the outer cylindrical part 26 is surrounded by the rear end portion of the dust collecting housing 21. The support grooves 28 are provided between the rear surface of the engagement part 27 and the front surface of the front plate part 24. The filter support mechanism includes the collar part 40. The first filter unit 30 is rotated in the normal rotation direction with respect to the main body housing 22, and the collar parts 40 are inserted into the support grooves 28, whereby the first filter unit 30 is fixed at the fixed position.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 is fixed to the main body housing 22 by being rotated in the normal rotation direction.

In the present embodiment, the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a portion of the first rear support part 33 that makes contact with the engagement part 27 when the first filter unit 30 is rotated by the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

In the above configuration, since the first rear support part 33 has a shape that comes into contact with the engagement part 27 when the first filter unit 30 is rotated by the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction, the first filter unit 30 is restricted from being rotated beyond the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

In the present embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes the normal rotation limiting mechanism that restricts the rotation of the first filter unit 30 from the fixed position in the normal rotation direction.

In the above configuration, when the first filter unit 30 is attached to the main body housing 22, unnecessary rotation of the first filter unit 30 beyond the fixed position is suppressed.

In the present embodiment, the normal rotation limiting mechanism includes at least a portion of the first rear support part 33 that comes into contact with the engagement part 27 when the first filter unit 30 is in a stated of being located at the fixed position.

In the above configuration, since the first rear support part 33 has a shape that comes into contact with the engagement part 27 when the first filter unit 30 is located at the fixed position, the first filter unit 30 is restricted from being rotated beyond the fixed position.

In the present embodiment, the first rear support part 33 includes: the pair of straight parts 37 arranged at point-symmetrical positions with respect to the rotation axis of the first filter unit 30 and parallel to each other; and the pair of arc parts 38 arranged adjacent to the straight parts 37 in the rotation direction. The pair of collar parts 40 is provided so as to be disposed adjacent to the arc parts 38 in the rotation direction. The pair of engagement parts 27 is provided in the rotation direction. After the first rear support part 33 is inserted inside the outer cylindrical part 26 to make the straight parts 37 and the engagement parts 27 coincide in position with each other, the first filter unit 30 is rotated in the normal rotation direction, whereby the collar parts 40 are inserted into the support grooves 28.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 is smoothly attached to the main body housing 22 by being rotated in the normal rotation direction.

In the present embodiment, the reverse rotation limiting mechanism includes the straight parts 37 that come into contact with the engagement parts 27 when the first filter unit 30 is in a state of being rotated by the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

In the above configuration, since the first rear support part 33 includes the straight parts 37 that come into contact with the engagement part 27 when the first filter unit 30 is rotated by the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction, the first filter unit 30 is restricted from being rotated beyond the limit angle from the fixed position in the reverse rotation direction.

In the present embodiment, the first rear support part 33 includes the inclined parts 41 that is disposed forward of the collar parts 40 and inclined radially inward in the normal rotation direction. The normal rotation limiting mechanism includes the inclined parts 41 that comes into contact with the engagement part 27 when the first filter unit 30 is in a state of being disposed at the fixed position.

In the above configuration, since the first rear support part 33 has the inclined part 41 that comes into contact with the engagement part 27 when the first filter unit 30 is located at the fixed position, the first filter unit 30 is restricted from being rotated beyond the fixed position.

In the present embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes the second filter unit 50 having the second filter 51 to which air having passed through the first filter 31 is supplied, and the second support member 52 that supports the second filter 51. The second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30 in the state of being arranged inside the first filter unit 30.

In the above configuration, since the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 are fixed to each other, the first filter unit 30 is fixed to the main body housing 22, whereby the second filter unit 50 is fixed to the main body housing 22 via the first filter unit 30.

In the present embodiment, the second support member 52 includes the second rear support part 53 that supports the rear end portion of the second filter 51. The second rear support part 53 includes the cylinder part 55 and the plurality of protrusions 56 protruding radially outward from the cylinder part 55. The second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30 with the protrusions 56 fitting inside the first rear support part 33.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 are appropriately fixed.

In the present embodiment, the second rear support part 53 includes the annular sealing part 57 provided at the rear of the cylinder part 55 and in contact with the front surface of the front plate part 24.

In the above configuration, the boundary between the filter assembly 4 including the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 and the main body housing 22 is sealed.

In the present embodiment, the first support member 32 includes the first front support part 34 that supports the front end portion of the first filter 31. The second support member 52 includes the second front support part 54 that supports the front end portion of the second filter 51. The second front support part 54 is fixed to the first front support part 34 in the state of being arranged inside the first front support part 34.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 are appropriately fixed.

In the present embodiment, the first front support part 34 includes: the annular part 42 surrounding the second front support part 54; and the plurality of projections 44 projecting radially inward from the inner surface of the annular part 42. The second front support part 54 is fixed to the first front support part 34 with the second front support part 54 fitting inside the projections 44.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 are appropriately fixed.

In the present embodiment, the first filter unit 30 is fixed to the main body housing 22 in the state where the second filter unit 50 is fixed to the first filter unit 30.

In the above configuration, the filter assembly 4 including the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50 and the main body housing 22 are appropriately fixed.

Second Embodiment

A second embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those of the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals to simplify or omit description of the components.

FIG. 31 is a front perspective view illustrating a filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 32 is a rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly 4B viewed from a right side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly 4B as viewed from a rear side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 35 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 36 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 37 is an exploded rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment. FIG. 38 is a perspective view illustrating a method of assembling the filter assembly 4B according to the present embodiment.

The filter assembly 4B includes the first filter unit 30 and a second filter unit 50B. Since the first filter unit 30 is equivalent to the first filter unit 30 described in the first embodiment described above, the description thereof will be omitted.

The second filter unit 50B includes a second rear support part 53B that supports a rear end portion of the second filter 51. The second rear support part 53B has the cylinder part 55 and a flange part 58 having an annular shape and protruding radially outward from the cylinder part 55. The flange part 58 is a rubber film. The flange part 58 can bend. The flange part 58 can be elastically deformed.

As illustrated in FIG. 38, when assembling the filter assembly 4B, the second filter unit 50B is inserted into the first filter unit 30 from the rear of the first filter unit 30. The second rear support part 53B is fixed to the first rear support part 33 with the flange part 58 fitting inside the first rear support part 33, so that the second filter unit 50B is fixed to the first filter unit 30.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the second rear support part 53B that supports the rear end portion of the second filter 51 includes the cylinder part 55 and the flange part 58 having the annular shape and protruding radially outward from the cylinder part 55. The flange part 58 is fitted inside the first rear support part 33, whereby the second filter unit 50B is fixed to the first filter unit 30.

In the above configuration, the first filter unit 30 and the second filter unit 50B are appropriately fixed.

Third Embodiment

A third embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those of the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals to simplify or omit description of the components.

FIG. 39 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a front portion of the main body housing 22 and a filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 40 is a front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 41 is a rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 42 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly 4C as viewed from a right side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 43 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly 4C as viewed from a rear side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 44 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly 4C as viewed from a front side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 45 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 46 is an exploded rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4C according to the present embodiment. FIG. 47 is a diagram illustrating the main body housing 22 to which the filter assembly 4C is attached as viewed from the front side according to the present embodiment.

The filter assembly 4C includes the first filter unit 30C and the second filter unit 50. Since the second filter unit 50 is equivalent to the second filter unit 50 described in the above-described first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

A first support member 32C of the first filter unit 30C includes a first rear support part 33C that supports a rear end portion of the first filter 31.

The first rear support part 33C includes a pair of straight parts 37C arranged at point-symmetrical positions with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30C and parallel to each other viewed from the rear side, a pair of arc parts 38C arranged adjacent to the straight parts 37C in the rotation direction, a pair of elastic deformation parts 45 elastically deformable and supported by the straight parts 37C, handles 46 protruding in the circumferential direction from the elastic deformation parts 45, and hooks 47 protruding radially outward from a rear end portion of the elastic deformation parts 45.

The arc parts 38C are point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30C viewed from the rear side. The handles 46 are point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30C. The hooks 47 are point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30C.

The straight parts 37C are respectively provided on upper and lower sides of the first rear support part 33C. The straight parts 37C each extend in the left-right direction. An upper surface of the upper straight part 37C is configured to face an inner surface of the engagement part 27 provided on the upper side. A lower surface of the lower straight part 37C is configured to face an inner surface of the engagement part 27 provided on the lower side.

The arc parts 38C are respectively provided on left and right sides of the first rear support part 33C. A left surface of the left arc part 38C is configured to face a left inner surface of the outer cylindrical part 26. A right surface of the right arc part 38C is configured to face a right inner surface of the outer cylindrical part 26.

The elastic deformation part 45 provided on the upper side protrudes leftward from a left end of the upper straight part 37C. The upper elastic deformation part 45 can be elastically deformed such that a right end of the upper elastic deformation part 45 serves as a fulcrum and a left end of the upper elastic deformation part 45 moves in the vertical direction. The handle 46 provided on the upper side protrudes leftward from the front portion of the left end of the upper elastic deformation part 45. The user can elastically deform the upper elastic deformation part 45 downward by pushing the handle 46 downward. The hook 47 provided on the upper side protrudes upward from the rear portion of the upper elastic deformation part 45. The upper hook 47 is inserted into the support groove 28 provided on the upper side.

The elastic deformation part 45 provided on the lower side protrudes rightward from the right end of the lower straight part 37C. The lower elastic deformation part 45 can be elastically deformed such that the left end of the lower elastic deformation part 45 serves as the fulcrum and a right end of the lower elastic deformation part 45 moves in the vertical direction. The lower handle 46 protrudes rightward from the front portion of the right end of the lower elastic deformation part 45. The user can elastically deform the lower elastic deformation part 45 upward by pushing the handle 46 upward. The lower hook 47 protrudes downward from the rear portion of the lower elastic deformation part 45. The lower hook 47 is inserted into the support groove 28 provided on the lower side.

When assembling the filter assembly 4C, the second filter unit 50 is inserted into the first filter unit 30C from the rear of the first filter unit 30C. The second filter unit 50B is fixed to the first filter unit 30 with the protrusions 56 fitting inside the first rear support part 33C.

When attaching the filter assembly 4C to the main body housing 22, the user operates the handles 46 so that the upper elastic deformation part 45 is elastically deformed downward and the lower elastic deformation part 45 is elastically deformed upward. The user inserts the rear end portion of the first support member 32C into the outer cylindrical part 26 so that the straight parts 37C and the engagement parts 27 are made to coincide in position with each other while maintaining a state where the elastic deformation part 45 is elastically deformed. After the rear end portion of the first support member 32C is inserted into the outer cylindrical part 26, the elastic deformation of the elastic deformation parts 45 is released, so that the left end of the upper elastic deformation part 45 moves upward and the right end of the lower elastic deformation part 45 moves downward. When the left end portion of the upper elastic deformation part 45 moves upward, the upper hook 47 is inserted into the upper support groove 28. When the right end of the lower elastic deformation part 45 moves downward, the lower hook 47 is inserted into the lower support groove 28. When the hooks 47 are inserted into the support grooves 28, the filter assembly 4C is attached to the main body housing 22.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the filter assembly 4C can be attached to the main body housing 22 without being rotated.

Fourth Embodiment

A fourth embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those of the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals to simplify or omit description of the components.

FIG. 48 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a front portion of the main body housing 22 and a filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 49 is a front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 50 is a rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 51 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly 4D as viewed from a right side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 52 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly 4D as viewed from a rear side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 53 is a diagram illustrating the filter assembly 4D as viewed from a front side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 54 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 55 is an exploded rear perspective view illustrating the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment. FIG. 56 is a perspective view illustrating a method of assembling the filter assembly 4D according to the present embodiment.

The filter assembly 4D includes a first filter unit 30D and a second filter unit 50D.

A first support member 32D of the first filter unit 30D includes a first rear support part 33D that supports a rear end portion of the first filter 31.

The first rear support part 33D includes a pair of straight parts 37D arranged at point-symmetrical positions with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30D and parallel to each other, a pair of arc parts 38D arranged adjacent to the straight parts 37D in the rotation direction, and hooks 48 respectively arranged in the straight parts 37D.

The arc parts 38D are point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30D. The hooks 48 are point-symmetric with respect to the rotation axis AX of the first filter unit 30D.

The straight parts 37D are respectively provided on the left and right sides of the first rear support part 33D. The straight parts 37D each extends in the vertical direction.

The arc parts 38D are respectively provided on upper and lower sides of the first rear support part 33D. The collar part 40 and the inclined part 41 described in the above-described first embodiment are provided adjacent to each of the arc parts 38D.

The hooks 48 are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the first rear support part 33D. At least a portion of the hook 48 is disposed inside a notch formed in the straight part 37D. A front end portion of the hook 48 is connected to at least a portion of the straight part 37D. The hook 48 can be elastically deformed such that the front end portion of the hook 48 serves as a fulcrum and the rear end portion of the hook 48 moves in the radial direction.

A second rear support part 53D of the second filter unit 50D has engagement parts 59 each protruding radially outward. The engagement parts 59 have a rectangular annular shape. The engagement parts 59 are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the second rear support part 53D. The second rear support part 53D has a plurality of protrusions 56D that fits inside the first rear support part 33D.

As illustrated in FIG. 56, when assembling the filter assembly 4D, the second filter unit 50D is inserted into the first filter unit 30D from the rear of the first filter unit 30D. The hooks 48 are hooked on the engagement parts 59 and the protrusions 56D are fitted inside the first rear support part 33D, whereby the second rear support part 53D is fixed to the first rear support part 33D, and the second filter unit 50D is fixed to the first filter unit 30D.

After the second filter unit 50D is fixed to the first filter unit 30D, the filter assembly 4D is rotated in the normal rotation direction with respect to the main body housing 22, whereby the collar parts 40 are inserted into the support grooves 28. With the insertion of the collar part 40 into the support groove 28, the filter assembly 4D is fixed to the main body housing 22.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the second filter unit 50D is fixed to the first filter unit 30D with the hooks 48 being hooked on the engagement parts 59.

Other Embodiments

In the embodiments described above, the power supply of the cleaner 1 is the battery pack 5 including the secondary battery. The power supply of the cleaner 1 may be an AC power supply (commercial power supply).

Although the invention has been described with respect to specific embodiments for a complete and clear disclosure, the appended claims are not to be thus limited but are to be construed as embodying all modifications and alternative constructions that may occur to one skilled in the art that fairly fall within the basic teaching herein set forth.

Information

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Date Filed

Date Published

Inventors

Original Assignees

CPC

International Classifications

Abstract

Description

Claims

Priority Claims (1)