CORNER SUCTION DEVICES FOR VACUUM CLEANERS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure is directed generally to vacuum cleaners, and associated systems and methods.

BACKGROUND

Conventional vacuum cleaners include a suction region positioned toward a front edge of the vacuum cleaner and elongated perpendicular to the path of travel of the vacuum cleaner. These conventional elongated suction regions are helpful for cleaning wide swaths of a surface. However, the geometry of a conventional vacuum cleaner and the conventional elongated suction region frustrates vacuum access to edges or corners of a room adjacent to the cleaning surface.

SUMMARY

Disclosed are devices, systems, and methods for vacuum cleaners, including vacuum cleaners with corner suction functionality.

In some aspects, a vacuum cleaner includes a vacuum head assembly comprising a housing, the housing including a main suction passage leading out of the vacuum head assembly and a main suction inlet and a corner suction inlet to allow intake into the vacuum head assembly; a suction drive assembly to create a suction force to pull an airflow containing debris into the vacuum head assembly though the main suction inlet and the corner suction inlet and out through the main suction passage; a debris collection assembly in fluid communication with the suction drive assembly and the vacuum head assembly to receive at least some of the debris from the pulled airflow; and a front corner suction assembly disposed in the housing of the vacuum head assembly and interfaced with the corner suction inlet, the front corner suction assembly comprising: a channel inlet component having at least one wall surrounding a hollow interior, where the channel inlet component is positioned within the housing at a front corner region between a side wall and a front wall of the housing, the channel inlet component having an aperture to interface the corner suction inlet, and a projection channel coupled to the channel inlet component and spanning to a terminus region of the projection channel that is directed at the main suction passage.

In some aspects, a vacuum cleaner floor head, comprises: a housing having a main cavity within an interior of the housing, a main suction input, and a main suction outlet to create a main suction channel in the main cavity between the main suction input and the main suction outlet; and one or more branch channels disposed in one or more respective corners within the housing, the one or more branch channels comprising an opening forming an auxiliary suction input of the vacuum cleaner floor head, wherein a branch channel extends away from a respective corner and leads to the main suction channel.

In some aspects, a vacuum cleaner system includes a suction channel assembly, wherein the suction channel assembly includes a main channel having a main suction input; and one or more branch channels connected to the main channel and extending away from the main channel, each branch channel comprising an opening forming an auxiliary suction input.

The subject matter described in this patent document can be implemented in specific ways that provide one or more of the following features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a partially schematic block diagram of a vacuum cleaner system configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 2 illustrates a partially schematic isometric view of a portion of a vacuum cleaner system providing a corner suction system configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 3 illustrates a partially schematic isometric view of a portion of a vacuum cleaner system providing a corner suction system configured in accordance with other embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 4 illustrates a partially schematic bottom view of the corner suction system of the vacuum cleaner system shown in FIG. 3.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate devices for accessing branch channels to clean them in the event of a clog, obstruction, or for other reasons. Specifically, FIG. 5A illustrates a top view of a branch channel including a door for accessing the interior of the branch channel. The door can pivot open to open up a side of the branch channel and expose an interior of the branch channel. FIG. 5B illustrates a bottom view of the branch channel and the door shown in FIG. 5A. FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the door, showing a latch for engaging the branch channel.

FIG. 6A illustrates a partially schematic front view of a vacuum cleaner system configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. FIG. 6B illustrates a partially schematic side view of the vacuum cleaner system shown in FIG. 6A.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate diagrams depicting an example embodiment of a corner suction system of a vacuum cleaner system configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 8 shows a diagram illustrating a conventional vacuum cleaner floor head.

The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale and are not necessarily drawn consistently from one figure to another. Instead, emphasis is placed on clearly illustrating the principles of the present technology. In the drawings and description, the same reference number indicates the same element throughout the views and description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present technology is directed to corner suction devices for vacuum cleaners, and associated systems and methods. Various embodiments of the technology will now be described. The following description provides specific details for a thorough understanding and enabling description of these embodiments. One skilled in the art will understand, however, that the invention may be practiced without many of these details. Additionally, some well-known structures or functions, such as structures or functions common to vacuum cleaners, may not be shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the relevant description of the various embodiments. Accordingly, embodiments of the present technology can include additional elements or exclude some of the elements described below with reference to FIGS. 1-7B, which illustrate examples of the technology.

The terminology used in the description presented below is intended to be interpreted in its broadest reasonable manner, even though it is being used in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific embodiments of the invention. Certain terms may even be emphasized below; however, any terminology intended to be interpreted in any restricted manner will be overtly and specifically defined as such in this detailed description section.

Where the context permits, singular or plural terms can also include the plural or singular term, respectively. Moreover, unless the word “or” is expressly limited to mean only a single item exclusive from the other items in a list of two or more items, then the use of “or” in such a list is to be interpreted as including (a) any single item in the list, (b) all of the items in the list, or (c) any combination of items in the list. As used herein, the term “and/or” when used in the phrase “A and/or B” means “A, or B, or both A and B.” A similar manner of interpretation applies to the term “and/or” when used in a list of more than two terms. Further, unless otherwise specified, terms such as “attached” or “connected” are intended to include integral connections, as well as connections between physically separate components.

Traditional upright vacuum cleaners typically have poor performance with inside corners edges of floors. This is due to the relatively large amount of plastic and metal material required to form the front corners of the vacuum floor head and the bearing housings for the cleaning rollers, as shown in FIG. 8. This material prevents the negative space and vacuum pressure underneath the floor head from reaching all the way into edges and especially into corners.

FIG. 8 shows a diagram of a conventional vacuum cleaner floor head, featuring the underside of the floor head. The conventional floor head has a housing with a main suction line toward the back of the floor head and a vacuum suction area toward the front of the floor head, where a brushroll agitator is disposed in the vacuum suction area. To operatively couple the brushroll agitator to the housing of the floor head, conventional vacuum cleaner floor heads have roller bearings and bearing housings (e.g., plastic material) that secure the brushroll agitator at its ends, which occupy the corner regions of the floor head housing and prevent corner suction.

As such, typical upright vacuum cleaners require a user to perform several cleaning passes over edges. The user will typically need to perform an awkward lifting motion to allow some of the negative pressure under the vacuum head to reach the edges of the floor. Corners simply cannot be effectively cleaned with traditional vacuum cleaners without the use of the vacuum's extension hose and some type of cleaning attachment for edges and crevices.

Disclosed are devices, systems, and methods for providing corner suction in a vacuum cleaner or other suction devices.

FIG. 1 illustrates a partially schematic block diagram of a vacuum cleaner system 100, configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaner system 100 includes an upper frame 105 connected to a lower assembly 110 via a joint 115. The joint 115 can facilitate movement of the upper frame 105 relative to the lower assembly 110 while the upper frame 105 and the lower assembly 110 are connected together via the joint 115. For example, the upper frame 105 can pivot, rotate, or otherwise move relative to the lower assembly 110 to facilitate a user's operation of the vacuum cleaner system 100, such as pushing and steering the lower assembly 110 along a surface 120 using the upper frame 105.

Accordingly, the upper frame 105 can support a handle portion 125 positioned for a user to grasp during operation of the vacuum cleaner system 100, and the lower assembly 110 can optionally include one or more motility units 130 (such as wheels or tracks) to facilitate travel of the lower assembly 110 along the surface 120. In some embodiments, the motility units 130 can include powered motility units, such as motorized wheels. In other embodiments, the motility units 130 can be unpowered (such as freewheeling or otherwise freely movable), except for the pushing force provided by a user upon the vacuum cleaner system 100.

In some embodiments, the lower assembly 110 includes a main suction input 135, which receives a suction airflow to pull debris (such as waste or particles) from the surface 120. To aid in releasing debris from the surface 120, the lower assembly 110 can also carry a brush 140. The brush 140 can agitate debris on the surface 120 to facilitate release of the debris and suction of the debris into the main suction input 135. In some embodiments, the brush 140 is motorized such that it rotates against the surface 120. In some embodiments, a brush roller belt connected to a wheel bar (such as a wheel axle) and the brush 140 can drive the brush 140 (see FIG. 4).

In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaner system 100 includes one or more suction and collection components 145 to facilitate providing suction to the main suction input 135 and collection of debris from the main suction input 135. For example, the suction and collection components 145 can include: a suction drive unit 150 operatively connected to the main suction input 135 to provide the suction airflow; a filtration unit 155 operatively connected between the main suction input 135 and the suction drive unit 150 to remove debris from the suction airflow passing from the main suction input 135 to the suction drive unit 150; and/or a debris collection chamber 160 operatively connected to the filtration unit 155 to collect debris that is filtered from the suction airflow. In some embodiments, the suction and collection components 145 can include a debris passage 165 between the filtration unit 155 and the debris collection chamber 160 to facilitate passage of debris from the filtration unit 155 to the debris collection chamber 160. The suction and collection components 145 can be connected to the main suction input 135 via an airflow pathway 170. For example, the airflow pathway 170 can connect the main suction input 135 to the filtration unit 155. In some embodiments, the suction drive unit 150 includes a motor, fan, or other suitable source of airflow suction. The debris collection chamber 160 can be removable and replaceable from the vacuum cleaner system 100 to facilitate emptying the debris collection chamber 160.

In some embodiments, some or all of the suction and collection components 145 can be carried by the upper frame 105. For example, the upper frame 105 can include a base 175 positioned to support some or all of the suction and collection components 145. In some embodiments, the base 175 can store a power cord 180 for connecting the vacuum cleaner system 100 to an external power source. In some embodiments, the base 175 can house electronic components, including but not limited to a power converter (e.g., AC/DC conversion) and/or a power supply (e.g., a battery).

In some embodiments, the joint 115 can facilitate separation of the upper frame 105 from the lower assembly 110. In such embodiments, some or all of the suction and collection components 145 can be carried by the lower assembly 110, such that the lower assembly 110 and the suction and collection components 145 form a lower vacuum unit 185 that can be operable independently of the upper frame 105 and the handle portion 125. In some embodiments, the airflow pathway 170 can include a hose that is detachable from the lower assembly 110, in which the detachable end of the hose can allow for attachment pieces (not shown), such as a pet hair brush, dust brush, crevice tool, etc., to attach to the detachable end and allow a user to vacuum clean surfaces difficult or otherwise unreachable by the lower assembly 110 (see FIGS. 6A and 6B).

Although FIG. 1 illustrates a vacuum cleaner system 100 configured in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology, in other embodiments, the vacuum cleaner system 100 can be configured in other ways.

FIG. 2 illustrates a partially schematic isometric view of a portion of a vacuum cleaner system 200 configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. The vacuum cleaner system 200 can be generally similar to the vacuum cleaner system 100 described above with regard to FIG. 1. For example, the vacuum cleaner system 200 can include the lower assembly 110 that is movably connected to the upper frame 105 via the joint 115. The lower assembly 110 illustrated in FIG. 2 is illustrated as being partially transparent in order to show features within, beneath, and/or carried by the lower assembly 110. However, the lower assembly 110 need not be transparent, rather, it can be opaque, translucent, colored, and/or it can have other characteristics.

The lower assembly 110 includes at least a portion of the airflow pathway 170 from the main suction input 135 to the suction and collection components 145 (see FIG. 1). In particular, for example, the lower assembly 110 carries a suction channel assembly 205, which is part of the airflow pathway 170. The suction channel assembly 205 can include a main channel 210, which includes the main suction input 135 and which receives debris that is agitated by the optional brush 140. The main channel 210 can be in the form of a hollow passageway and it can include a converging and/or diverging portion to provide a venturi effect to the airflow forming the suction of the vacuum cleaner system 200.

In some embodiments, the suction channel assembly 205 can further include one or more branch channels 215 connected to the main channel 210 and extending away from the main channel 210. For example, each branch channel 215 can extend away from a side of the main channel 210. The branch channels 215 can be generally tubular, although they need not be cylindrical. Each branch channel 215 can terminate at a corresponding opening 220 positioned in a perimeter wall 225 of the lower assembly 110, such that the branch channel 215 opens to a forward and/or lateral exterior of the lower assembly 110 rather than opening downward to face the surface 120 (see FIG. 1). Each opening 220 constitutes an auxiliary suction input (i.e., auxiliary to the main suction input 135). In some embodiments, the opening 220 can be positioned at a front corner region 230 of the lower assembly 110. In some embodiments, the opening 220 can be generally positioned in a plane that is transverse to the surface 120. However, generally, the opening 220 faces laterally and/or forward away from the side of the lower assembly 110 as opposed to downward toward the surface 120. Although only one branch channel 215 and one opening 220 are shown in FIG. 2, in further embodiments, another similar or identical branch channel 215 and opening 220 can be positioned on the other side of the lower assembly 110 (as illustrated in other figures described below).

Each branch channel 215 and its corresponding opening 220 provides suction at the side of the lower assembly 110, which advantageously facilitates capturing debris that is adjacent to the travel pathway of the vacuum cleaner system 200, including debris on the surface 120 (see FIG. 1), in corners, along sides of furniture, and/or other locations. In some embodiments, the smaller size of the opening 220 (forming an auxiliary suction input) relative to the larger opening associated with the main suction input 135 provides a stronger, targeted suction feature. In some embodiments, the branch channel 215 can include a venturi shape to increase the speed of suction airflow. Representative airflow patterns A are also shown in FIG. 2 and in the other figures herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates a partially schematic isometric view of a portion of a vacuum cleaner system 300 configured in accordance with other embodiments of the present technology. The vacuum cleaner system 300 can be generally similar to the vacuum cleaner systems 100, 200 described above with regard to FIGS. 1 and 2, including some or all of the same or similar features. In addition, in some embodiments, the vacuum cleaner system 300 can include features to facilitate selectively blocking or opening airflow through the branch channels 215 to facilitate deactivation and activation of the corner suction feature.

For example, in some embodiments, the suction channel assembly 205 can include one or more valves 305 positioned to open or close to allow or deny airflow through the branch channels 215. The valves 305 can be positioned between each branch channel 215 and the main channel 210.

As described above, in some embodiments, the branch channels 215 can terminate at a front corner region 230 of the lower assembly 110 in a manner that positions the openings 220 to generally direct suction from forward of the lower assembly and/or from lateral to the lower assembly (as generally shown in FIGS. 2 and 3), rather than downwardly toward the surface 120. However, in other embodiments, the branch channels 215 can be oriented, configured, and/or positioned to terminate in other locations in manners that position the openings 220 to generally direct suction along other directions. For example, in some embodiments, the branch channels 215 can terminate at openings that point downwardly toward the surface 120, near the front corner region 230, or in other locations within the lower assembly 110. In some embodiments, the branch channels 215 can terminate at openings at a front (forward) end 310 of the lower assembly 110 (such that suction is directed opposite a forward direction from the lower assembly 110) and/or in a lateral side 315 of the lower assembly 110 (such that suction is directed along a lateral direction transverse or perpendicular to a forward direction).

In some embodiments, branch channels 215 may be terminate at openings in various other locations or combinations of locations (such as some branch channels terminating downwardly while others terminate forward, while yet others terminate laterally). Each opening 220 may be configured to open forward, to the side, and/or downwardly. In some embodiments, the branch channels 215 may be adjustable and/or reconfigurable by a user.

In some embodiments, the position and configuration of the openings 220 may depend on the position and/or size of the brush 140 and the specific application of the vacuum cleaner system 300. For example, downward-facing or at least partially downward-facing openings 220 (facing the surface 120) may provide enhanced suction relative to suction provided by the main channel 210, which may be useful in configurations in which a lower assembly 110 travels at a relatively higher elevation above the surface 120 (such as in an implementation for carpet). Forward, lateral, and/or corner facing openings 220 may be implemented for configurations in which the lower assembly 110 travels at a relatively lower elevation above the surface 120 (such as for bare floors). The foregoing configurations and advantages are for example only and are not limiting. Accordingly, embodiments of the present technology include branch channels 215 that terminate at openings 220 that are positioned and/or oriented in any suitable location on the lower assembly 110 and in any suitable direction to provide auxiliary suction inputs. FIGS. 6A and 6B (described below) each illustrate positions of openings 220 according to further embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 4 illustrates a partially schematic bottom view of the portion of the vacuum cleaner system 300 shown in FIG. 3. Although FIG. 4 includes descriptive text, such text is for example only and not meant to limit the scope of the technology. In some embodiments, each valve 305 can include a movable (e.g., pivotable) flap element 400 and an actuator 405 connected to the flap element 400 to move the flap element 400. Each flap element 400 is movable between a first position in which the valve 305 is open, allowing airflow and suction through the corresponding branch channel 215, and a second position in which the flap element 400 blocks the branch channel 215 (shown by dotted lines indicated as 400a in FIG. 4) such that the valve 305 is closed and airflow/suction is generally prevented from passing through the branch channel 215. In some embodiments, the actuators 405 are connected to a switch/power source 410 for controlling the direction of the actuators 405 (i.e., to open and close the valve 305 by moving the flap element 400). In some embodiments, all branch channels 215 can connect to the airflow pathway 170 via a single valve 305. Although flap elements 400 are shown and described as the valves 305, in other embodiments, other suitable valve devices can be implemented to selectively block or allow airflow (suction) through the branch channels 215. In operation, the vacuum cleaner system 300 can perform a method of opening or closing the valves 305 in response to a command input from the switch/power source 410 generated by a user or a controller programmed with instructions to operate the switch/power source 410 and/or the valves 305.

In some embodiments, the valves 305 can be positioned and/or configured to block airflow/suction from the main channel 210 when they are open to allow flow through the branch channels 215. Accordingly, embodiments of the present technology can include at least: (a) a suction channel assembly 205 with branch channels 215 do not have valves (e.g., they are always open) (see FIG. 2); (b) a suction channel assembly 205 with branch channels 215 and valves 305 to selectively open or close to allow or deny suction through the branch channels 215 while always allowing suction through the main channel 210 (see FIG. 4); and/or (c) a suction channel assembly 205 with branch channels 215 and valves 305 that selectively open or close to allow or deny suction through the branch channels 215, and when open the valves 305 allow suction through the branch channels 215, but they block suction through/from the main channel 210 (see FIG. 4, but the valves 305, such as the flap elements 400, would be sized to block airflow in the main channel 210, for example as a gate spanning the main channel 210). In further embodiments, the valves 305 need not operate in a binary manner (i.e. they need not only have two positions). Rather, in some embodiments, they can be adjustable to selectively adjust the flow/suction through the branch channels 215 and/or the main channel 210.

In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaner system 300 can include an additional suction drive unit (such as a fan, turbo, or other suitable source of airflow suction) operatively positioned to provide suction to one or more (such as all) of the branch channels 215. The additional suction drive unit can be operable to increase suction force for the openings 220 (the auxiliary suction inputs). The valves 305 can connect the additional suction drive unit to the branch channels 215. Accordingly, in some embodiments, flow through the branch channels 215 may be (a) always open and augmented with the additional suction drive unit; (b) adjusted with valve(s) 305 such that the additional suction drive unit provides suction to the branch channels 215 while the main channel 210 is engaged in suction via the suction drive unit 150 and/or the additional suction drive unit; and/or (c) adjusted with valve(s) 305 such that the additional suction drive unit provides suction to the branch channels 215 while the valve(s) 305 or another device blocks suction to the main channel 210. In some embodiments, the additional suction drive unit (and hence, the auxiliary suction inputs provided by the branch channels 215) can be operated independently of the suction drive unit 150 and the main suction input 135 described above.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate devices for accessing the branch channels 215 to clean them in the event of a clog, obstruction, or for other reasons. FIG. 5A illustrates a top view of a branch channel 215 including a door 500 for accessing the interior 510 of the branch channel 215. The door 500 can pivot open to open up a side of the branch channel 215. In FIG. 5A, the door 500 is open. FIG. 5B illustrates a bottom view of the branch channel 215 and the door 500 shown in FIG. 5A, however, in FIG. 5B, the door 500 is closed. In some embodiments, the door 500 may open in other directions (e.g., downwardly, laterally, etc.) and/or it may have other configurations suitable for providing access to the interior 510 of the branch channel 215. FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the door 500, showing a latch 505 for clickably engaging the branch channel 215 and/or by a compression fit against the branch channel 215. The latch 505 may be configured to hold the door 500 closed against the branch channel 215 in any suitable manner.

FIG. 6A illustrates a partially schematic front view of a vacuum cleaner system 600 configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. FIG. 6B illustrates a partially schematic side view of the vacuum cleaner system 600 shown in FIG. 6A. The vacuum cleaner system 600 can be generally similar to the vacuum cleaner systems 100, 200, 300 described above with regard to FIGS. 1-4, including some or all of the same or similar features. For example, the vacuum cleaner system 600 can include the switch/power source 410 for controlling the actuators 405. The switch/power source 410 can be connected to the actuators 405 via wiring 602. In some embodiments, the wiring 602 can be separable and reconnectable at one or more junctions 605 to facilitate separation of one or more of the suction and collection components 145, such as the top of a debris collection chamber 160 or when the debris collection container 160 is removed from the upper frame 105. In some embodiments, the switch/power source 410 can be positioned on or near the handle 125.

In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaner system 600 can include one or more mechanical devices for a user to manually operate the valves 305 (see FIGS. 3, 4) in addition to, or as an alternative to, the actuators 405. For example, in some embodiments, a manual adjustment mechanism may be positioned on the vacuum cleaner system 600 (for example, on a top region of the suction and collection components 145, similar to the placement of the switch/power source 410). The manual adjustment mechanism may be operatively connected through suitable mechanisms to the valves 305 to adjust their positions. In some embodiments, the manual adjustment mechanism may be a rotatable device that transmits rotation to the valves 305 to move the flap elements 400 (for example, in a manner similar to the manner of operation of the actuators 405). In other embodiments, other suitable manual mechanisms can be implemented and they can be suitably positioned anywhere on the vacuum cleaner system 600.

FIG. 6B also shows a representative airflow path A, in which the airflow enters the opening 220 of the branch channel 215 (and/or the main suction input 135, depending on the position of the valves 305) and travels along the airflow pathway 170, which can include traveling through the upper frame 105, through the handle 125, through a flexible hose 615, into the suction and collection components 145, and out of an exhaust area 620. Accordingly, the air in the airflow A can be cleaned and filtered from particles. In some embodiments, the handle 125 can be removable from the upper frame 105 and used as a cleaning tool, whereby suction comes from a portion of the handle 125.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate diagrams depicting an example embodiment of a corner suction system of a vacuum cleaner system configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. The diagram of FIG. 7A illustrates the underside of a housing 701 of a lower assembly 700 (e.g., vacuum cleaner floor head) of a vacuum cleaner system, e.g., such as the vacuum cleaner systems 100, 200, 300, and/or 600. The diagram of FIG. 7B illustrates the upperside of the housing 701 of the lower assembly 700 of the vacuum cleaner system, including a cut-away inset drawing of an example front corner region 730 of the housing 701.

Referring to FIG. 7A, the housing 701 includes a top wall 724 (i.e., underside surface of top wall 724 is shown in the diagram), side perimeter walls 725, a front perimeter wall 726, and a rear perimeter wall 727. In some embodiments, for example, like that shown in FIG. 7A, the top wall 724 may include an opening 708, e.g., to provide an access region into the interior of the housing 701. In some embodiments, for example, like that shown in FIG. 7A, the front perimeter wall 726 may include an opening 709, e.g., to provide a location to position front headlights or other components of a vacuum cleaner system. The housing 701 can include a bottom wall (not shown), e.g., which can couple to the side, front, and rear perimeter walls 725, 726, and 727, respectively, to fully or at least partially enclose the interior of the housing 701. The bottom wall of the housing 701 can include a central suction input region 735, e.g., such as an opening in the bottom wall, which receives a main suction airflow M to pull debris (e.g., dirt, dust, allergen, microbes, or other particles) from the floor surface to be cleaned. In some embodiments, to aid in releasing debris from the surface, the lower assembly 700 can include an agitator (e.g., brush roll), where the agitator can dislodge and/or direct debris on the surface into the central suction input region 735, e.g., with the addition of suction, to facilitate release and pull of the debris into a main suction passage 760, e.g., which interfaces the housing 701 of the lower assembly 700. In some embodiments, the agitator is motorized such that it rotates against the surface. In some embodiments, a brush roller belt can be connected to a wheel bar (such as a wheel axle) so as to drive the example brushroll agitator (as in the example previously discussed in FIG. 4). The lower assembly 700 includes at least one front corner suction assembly 710 (or two front corner suction assemblies) placed in at least one (or both) front corner region(s) 730, located between the front perimeter wall 726 and the side perimeter wall 725.

The front corner suction assembly 710 includes a corner channel inlet component 711 positioned within the interior of the housing 701 at the front corner region 730 of the lower assembly 700, and a projection channel component 717 coupled to the corner channel inlet component 711 (e.g., in some embodiments, at a distal end) and spanning to a terminus region 718 that is directed toward the main suction passage 760 within the interior of the housing 701. In some optional embodiments, for example, the distal end of the corner channel inlet component 711 can include a tapered portion to facilitate an interface 712, e.g., where the projection channel component 717 can attach to the distal end of the corner channel inlet component 711. The corner channel inlet component 711 includes a corner aperture 715 on a downward and/or outward facing wall of the corner channel inlet component 711 that is positioned (e.g., angled) to facilitate suction from the corner interface of the front perimeter wall 726 and the side perimeter wall 725. In various embodiments, the corner aperture 715 can be sized based on a level (or range) of suction force to be applied at the front corner region 730. For example, in some embodiments, the corner aperture 715 is configured in a rectangular or elliptical shape, or a circular or triangular shape, or other. Also, for example, in some embodiments, the corner aperture 715 is configured such that at least one dimension has a length in a range of ¼ inch to 2 inches, or in a smaller range of ½ inch to 1½ inches.

In some embodiments, for example, the front corner suction assembly 710 is configured as a modular system, where the corner channel inlet component 711 and/or the projection channel component 717 includes one or more separate pieces (i.e., separate with respect to the housing 701) that can be inserted/assembled into the housing 701 and removed from the housing 701 by a user. For example, the corner channel inlet component 711 can be removably attached to the interior side of the front perimeter wall 726 and/or the interior side of the respective side perimeter wall 725 (and/or the underside of the top wall 724), such that the corner aperture 715 is exposed at the corner (front corner region 730) of the lower assembly 700. In such embodiments, for example, the projection channel component 717 can be removably detached from the corner channel inlet component 711 and optionally attached to portion(s) of the interior side of the side perimeter wall 725 and/or underside of the top wall 724 to direct the terminus region 718 at or proximate to the main suction passage 760. Whereas, in some embodiments, for example, the front corner suction assembly 710 can be partially integrated with one or more walls of the housing 701 of the lower assembly 700. In such embodiments, for example, the wall(s) of the corner channel inlet component 711 can be formed as part of the interior side of the front perimeter wall 726 and/or the interior side of the respective side perimeter wall 725 (and/or the underside of the top wall 724).

In some embodiments, for example, the projection channel component 717 can include a tube structure, which can be configured in various shapes, such as a cylindrical tube, a rectangular tube, a pyramidal tube, etc. In some embodiments, the tube structure includes a rigid tube, at least at some portions, to define a specific pathway between the corner channel inlet component 711 and the terminus region 718 of the projection channel component 717 at or proximate the main suction passage 760. Yet, in some embodiments, the tube structure includes a flexible tube, at least at some portions, to allow the pathway to be modified or to allow for easier manufacturing protocols when assembling the front corner suction assembly 710 in the lower assembly 700. In some example embodiments, the tube structure can be or include a hose.

In some embodiments, for example, the projection channel component 717 is connected between the corner channel inlet component 711 (e.g., at the optional interface 712, or directly at/around the corner aperture 715) and the terminus region 718 that interfaces with the main suction passage 760, which creates a corner suction effect that is passively active (meaning a user does not need to activate the corner suction feature, which can negate a need for sensors, switches, gates, or valves to control the corner suction feature). Yet, in some embodiments, as an example, the projection channel component 717 is connected between the corner channel inlet component 711 (e.g., at the optional interface 712, or directly at/around the corner aperture 715) and the terminus region 718, where the terminus region 718 is positioned within the main interior of the housing 710, proximate but distant from the main suction passage 760.

In some embodiments, for example, the corner channel inlet component 711 may include a door (not shown) that can allow a user to adjust the size of the corner aperture 715, e.g., such as a slide door that traverses a fully open position and at least partially open position and/or a closed position of the corner aperture 715. In some embodiments, for example, the door can be a sliding door and/or a rotatable door. In some embodiments, for example, the door can be removable from the corner channel inlet component 711. In such configurations, for example, the front corner suction assembly 710 can be disengaged, e.g., allowing a user to redirect more suction force from the main suction passage 760 to the central suction input region 735.

In some embodiments, like in the diagram of FIG. 7A, for example, the projection channel component 717 can be configured along or proximate to the interior surface of the side perimeter wall 725 and angled to project toward the main suction passage 760. In such embodiments, the suction force created within the front corner suction assembly 710 can be at a maximum as the terminus region 718 of the projection channel component 717 can be interfaced at a location at or near where the suction force to create the main suction airflow M is located. Whereas, in other embodiments, for example, the projection channel component 717 can be configured to attach to the attachment interface 712 and terminate within a central region of the interior of the housing 701.

In some embodiments, like in the diagram of FIG. 7B, for example, the projection channel component 717 can be configured within the corner channel inlet component 711 and span to the terminus portion of the projection channel component 717, e.g., angled to project toward the main suction passage 760. In this manner, the projection channel component 717 connects to the corner aperture 715.

In implementations, for example, the front corner suction assembly 710 provides a targeted corner suction airflow A at hard-to-reach spots on the surface to be cleaned into the corner aperture 715 of the corner channel inlet component 711 positioned in the corner region 730 of the lower assembly 700 (e.g., floor head vacuum component). The projection channel component 717 can be connected to a main airflow line in the back center of the floor head (e.g., main suction passage 760), where the projection channel component 717 is routed to the front corners of the floor head vacuum component and connect to specially shaped holes (e.g., corner aperture 715) in the material (e.g., plastic) of the floor head.

In implementations, for example, the corner aperture 715 directs the suction from the projection channel component 717 and through the corner channel inlet component 711 directly at the edges and corners of the floor to be cleaned. The targeted suction pressure into floor corners is increased when the corner aperture 715 on the floor head is placed far into a corner (e.g., between two walls), e.g., since the front perimeter wall 726 and side wall perimeter wall 725 of the housing 701 (combined with the top perimeter wall 724) with the focused, shaped corner aperture 715 can create a quasi-seal at the corner location to be cleaned. This sealing effect forces the vast majority of the airflow to come from the corner of the floor itself as opposed to being pulled from anywhere else. Moreover, this greatly improves edge and corner cleaning without the user needing to perform multiple cleaning passes, lift or manipulate the vacuum in any way, or use any special tools, hoses, or cleaning attachments.

The implementation of the corner suction system can slightly reduce the overall suction pressure of the main suction airflow M in the primary center chamber of the housing 701 (e.g., vacuum head). Yet, it is noted that testing of the disclosed center suction system (e.g., embodiments of the corner suction assembly 710) has shown that a relatively small amount of the total airflow is diverted from the main suction airflow M, which has a de minimis effect on the efficacy of the cleaning functionality through the central suction input region 735, yet while having a substantial corner suction force to increase the targeted corner suction airflow A and thereby achieve proper corner cleaning.

While not shown in FIG. 7A or 7B, the corner suction system can include at least one (e.g., of two) rear corner suction assemblies that is/are positioned in rear corner region(s) of the housing 701, located between the rear perimeter wall 727 and the side perimeter wall 725. Example embodiments of the rear corner suction assembly can include the components and configurations as in example embodiments of the front corner suction assembly 710, with modifications to components as needed (e.g., length, angles, direction of projection channel component 717) to direct the rear corner suction airflow to the main suction passage 760.

While the example embodiments of the corner suction system (e.g., corner suction assembly 710) shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B are integrated into a vacuum cleaner floor head, it is understood that the disclosed corner suction system technology can be employed in other vacuum cleaner heads with similar constraints as discussed for conventional floor heads.

Examples of other vacuum cleaner heads (with or without an agitator) that can include the corner suction system include, but not limited to, detachable heads like a pet brush, upholstery brush, etc.

Examples

The examples and embodiments disclosed herein can be combined with each other, and further examples of the present technology include more or fewer elements than the elements in the examples.

In some embodiments in accordance with the present technology (example A1), a vacuum cleaner system includes a suction channel assembly, wherein the suction channel assembly includes a main channel having a main suction input; and one or more branch channels connected to the main channel and extending away from the main channel, each branch channel comprising an opening forming an auxiliary suction input.

Example A2 includes the vacuum cleaner system of example A1, further comprising a valve positioned between the main channel and at least one branch channel of the one or more branch channels, wherein the valve is operable to: open or close to allow or block suction through the at least one branch channel; and/or (b) open or close to allow or block suction through the main channel.

Example A3 includes the vacuum cleaner system of example A2, further comprising a switch and/or power source operatively connected to the valve to control opening and/or closing of the valve.

Example A4 includes the vacuum cleaner system of any one of examples A1-A3, further comprising: a lower assembly, wherein the lower assembly carries the suction channel assembly, and wherein each branch channel opens to a forward and/or lateral exterior of the lower assembly through a perimeter wall of the lower assembly; and one or more suction and collection components configured to provide suction to the suction channel assembly.

Example A5 includes the vacuum cleaner system of example A4, wherein the forward and/or lateral exterior of the lower assembly comprises a front corner region of the lower assembly.

Example A6 includes the vacuum cleaner system of example A4 or example A5, wherein the one or more suction and collection components comprises a suction drive unit (such as a motor and/or a fan); a filtration unit; and/or a debris collection chamber positioned to collect debris pulled from the surface by the lower assembly.

Example A7 includes the vacuum cleaner system of any one of examples A4-A6, further comprising an upper frame connected to the lower assembly via a joint to facilitate movement (such as pivoting or rotating) relative to the lower assembly.

Example A8 includes the vacuum cleaner system of example A7, wherein the upper frame comprises a handle portion for a user to grasp during operation of the vacuum cleaner system.

Example A9 includes the vacuum cleaner system of example A7 or example A8, wherein the joint comprises a separable joint that facilitates separation of the upper frame from the lower assembly, and wherein the suction and collection components are carried by the lower assembly.

Example A10 includes the vacuum cleaner system of any one of examples A4-A9, wherein the lower assembly comprises a brush for agitating debris on a surface.

Example A11 includes the vacuum cleaner system of example A10, wherein the brush is rotatable against the surface, optionally via motorized mechanism and/or a brush roller belt.

Example A12 includes the vacuum cleaner system of any one of examples A4-A11 wherein the lower assembly comprises one or more motility units to facilitate travel of the lower assembly along a surface.

Example A13 includes the vacuum cleaner system of any one of examples A1-A12, wherein at least one of the branch channels comprises a door for accessing an interior of the at least one of the branch channels.

In some embodiments in accordance with the present technology (example B1), a vacuum cleaner includes a vacuum head assembly comprising a housing, the housing including a main suction passage leading out of the vacuum head assembly and a main suction inlet and a corner suction inlet to allow intake into the vacuum head assembly; a suction drive assembly to create a suction force to pull an airflow containing debris into the vacuum head assembly though the main suction inlet and the corner suction inlet and out through the main suction passage; a debris collection assembly in fluid communication with the suction drive assembly and the vacuum head assembly to receive at least some of the debris from the pulled airflow; and a front corner suction assembly disposed in the housing of the vacuum head assembly and interfaced with the corner suction inlet, the front corner suction assembly comprising: a channel inlet component having at least one wall surrounding a hollow interior, where the channel inlet component is positioned within the housing at a front corner region between a side wall and a front wall of the housing, the channel inlet component having an aperture to interface the corner suction inlet, and a projection channel coupled to the channel inlet component and spanning to a terminus region of the projection channel that is directed at the main suction passage.

Example B2 includes the vacuum cleaner of any of examples B1-B15, wherein the aperture is positioned on a downward and/or outward facing wall of the channel inlet component.

Example B3 includes the vacuum cleaner of any of examples B1-B15, wherein the projection channel is coupled to a surrounding perimeter of the aperture on the channel inlet component.

Example B4 includes the vacuum cleaner of any of examples B1-B15, wherein the projection channel is coupled to a distal end of the channel inlet component.

Example B5 includes the vacuum cleaner of example B4 or any of examples B1-B15, wherein the distal end of the channel inlet component includes a tapered portion to facilitate an interface between the channel inlet component and the projection channel.

Example B6 includes the vacuum cleaner of any of examples B1-B15, wherein the aperture includes one of a rectangular, circular, elliptical, or triangular shape.

Example B7 includes the vacuum cleaner of any of examples B1-B15, wherein the aperture includes a size with at least one dimension having a length in a range of ¼ inch to 2 inches.

Example B8 includes the vacuum cleaner of any of examples B1-B15, wherein the aperture includes a size with at least one dimension having a length in a range of ½ inch to 3/2 inches.

Example B9 includes the vacuum cleaner of any of examples B1-B15, wherein the front corner suction assembly further includes a door coupled to the channel inlet component and disposed with respect to the aperture, wherein the door is moveable between a first position where the aperture is fully open and a second position where the aperture is closed or at least partially open position.

Example B10 includes the vacuum cleaner of example B9 or any of examples B1-B15, wherein the door includes a sliding door or a rotatable door.

Example B11 includes the vacuum cleaner of example B9 or any of examples B1-B15, wherein the door is removable from the channel inlet component.

Example B12 includes the vacuum cleaner of any of examples B1-B15, wherein the projection channel includes a first segment that is configured along or proximate to an interior surface of the side wall of the housing and a second segment that is angled to project toward the main suction passage.

Example B13 includes the vacuum cleaner of any of examples B1-B15, wherein the projection channel includes a segment that is curved or angled from a portion of the projection channel at or out of the channel inlet component that projects toward a central region within the interior of the housing.

Example B14 includes the vacuum cleaner of any of examples B1-B15, further comprising: a second front corner suction assembly disposed in the housing of the vacuum head assembly and interfaced with a second corner suction inlet at a second front corner region opposite the front corner region with respect to the housing, the second front corner suction assembly comprising: a second channel inlet component positioned within the housing at the second front corner region between a second side wall and the front wall of the housing, the second channel inlet component having a second aperture to interface the second corner suction inlet, and a second projection channel coupled to the second channel inlet component and spanning to a terminus region of the second projection channel that is directed at the main suction passage.

Example B15 includes the vacuum cleaner of any of examples B1-B14, wherein the housing of the vacuum head assembly comprises a rear corner inlet, and wherein the vacuum cleaner further comprises: a rear corner suction assembly disposed in a rear corner region of the housing of the vacuum head assembly to interface with the rear corner inlet, wherein the one or more rear corner suction assemblies comprising: a rear channel inlet component positioned within the housing at the rear corner region between the side wall and a rear wall of the housing, the rear channel inlet component having an aperture to interface the rear corner suction inlet, and a rear projection channel coupled to the rear channel inlet component and spanning to a terminus region of the rear projection channel that is directed at the main suction passage.

In some embodiments in accordance with the present technology (example B16), a vacuum cleaner floor head, comprises: a housing having a main cavity within an interior of the housing, a main suction input, and a main suction outlet to create a main suction channel in the main cavity between the main suction input and the main suction outlet; and one or more branch channels disposed in one or more respective corners within the housing, the one or more branch channels comprising an opening forming an auxiliary suction input of the vacuum cleaner floor head, wherein a branch channel extends away from a respective corner and leads to the main suction channel.

Example B17 includes the vacuum cleaner floor head of any of examples B16-B20, further comprising a valve positioned between the main suction channel and at least one branch channel of the one or more branch channels, wherein the valve is operable to: open or close to allow or block suction through the at least one branch channel; and/or open or close to allow or block suction through the main suction channel.

Example B18 includes the vacuum cleaner floor head of example B17 or any of examples B16-B20, further comprising a switch and/or power source operatively connected to the valve to control opening and/or closing of the valve.

Example B19 includes the vacuum cleaner floor head of any of examples B16-B20, further comprising a brushroll agitator disposed within the housing proximate the main suction input for agitating debris on a surface to be cleaned within the main suction channel.

Example B20 includes the vacuum cleaner floor head of any of examples B16-B19, wherein at least one of the branch channels comprises a door for accessing an interior of the at least one of the branch channels.

Implementations of the subject matter and the functional operations described in this patent document can be implemented in various systems, digital electronic circuitry, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware, including the structures disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents, or in combinations of one or more of them. Implementations of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented as one or more computer program products, i.e., one or more modules of computer program instructions encoded on a tangible and non-transitory computer readable medium for execution by, or to control the operation of, data processing apparatus. The computer readable medium can be a machine-readable storage device, a machine-readable storage substrate, a memory device, a composition of matter effecting a machine-readable propagated signal, or a combination of one or more of them. The term “data processing unit” or “data processing apparatus” encompasses all apparatus, devices, and machines for processing data, including by way of example a programmable processor, a computer, or multiple processors or computers. The apparatus can include, in addition to hardware, code that creates an execution environment for the computer program in question, e.g., code that constitutes processor firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an operating system, or a combination of one or more of them.

A computer program (also known as a program, software, software application, script, or code) can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program does not necessarily correspond to a file in a file system. A program can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store one or more modules, sub programs, or portions of code). A computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers that are located at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication network.

The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform functions by operating on input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by, and apparatus can also be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit).

Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read only memory or a random access memory or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for performing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g., magnetic, magneto optical disks, or optical disks. However, a computer need not have such devices. Computer readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of nonvolatile memory, media and memory devices, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices. The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific embodiments of the presently disclosed technology have been described herein for purposes of illustration but that various modifications may be made without deviating from the scope of the technology. For example, aspects of the corner suction functionality and devices disclosed herein can be implemented in robotic or autonomous vacuum cleaner systems, including those that do not necessarily include a user-operable handle. Certain aspects of the technology described in the context of particular embodiments can be combined or eliminated in other embodiments. The separation of various system components in the embodiments described in this patent document should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments.

Further, while advantages associated with certain embodiments of the presently disclosed technology have been described in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments may also exhibit such advantages, and not all embodiments need necessarily exhibit such advantages to fall within the scope of the technology. Accordingly, the disclosure and associated technology can encompass other embodiments not expressly shown or described herein.

While this patent document contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any invention or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular embodiments of particular inventions. Certain features that are described in this patent document in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

Only a few implementations and examples are described herein, and other implementations, enhancements and variations can be made based on what is described and illustrated in this document.

CORNER SUCTION DEVICES FOR VACUUM CLEANERS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

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