CLEANING APPARATUS WITH MULTI-INPUT RELIEF VALVE CONTROL

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/659,987, filed on Jun. 14, 2024, entitled, “CLEANING APPARATUS WITH MULTI-INPUT RELIEF VALVE CONTROL,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002]The present disclosure generally relates to a cleaning apparatus, and more specifically, to a vacuum cleaning apparatus with multi-input pressure relief valve control.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003]Vacuum cleaners can draw dirt from a surface using a vacuum system. Vacuum cleaners often include bleed valves that open in response to pressure. Typically, the bleed valves open to allow air to flow into the vacuum cleaner when there is a clog in the vacuum cleaner that prevents sufficient airflow.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004]According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes a base configured to engage an underlying surface, a body assembly, and a tank assembly for collecting debris material from working air. A suction assembly is in fluid communication with a suction inlet. The suction assembly includes a suction source configured to generate a vacuum effect at the suction inlet. An airflow path for the working air is defined from the suction inlet, through the tank assembly, and the suction assembly. A sensor is configured to sense a condition of the cleaning apparatus to provide a sensed value. A relief valve is disposed along the airflow path. The relief valve is operable between an opened state to allow cooling air into the airflow path at a location separate from the suction inlet and a closed state. A controller is communicatively coupled with the relief valve and the sensor where the relief valve is configured to adjust to the opened state in response to an activation signal from the controller. The controller is configured to send the activation signal when a differential between the sensed value and a baseline level for the condition exceeds a predefined value for a predefined period of time.

[0005]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes a base, a body assembly, a tank assembly, and a suction assembly. The suction assembly includes a suction source in fluid communication with a suction inlet via an airflow path defined from the suction inlet, through the tank assembly, and through the suction assembly. A relief valve is disposed along the airflow path upstream of the suction assembly. The relief valve is operable between a closed state and an opened state. A pressure sensor is configured to sense pressure in the airflow path. A controller is communicatively coupled with the relief valve and the pressure sensor. The controller is configured to adjust the relief valve to the opened state to allow cooling air into the airflow path at a location separate from the suction inlet when the airflow path is at an elevated vacuum pressure relative to a baseline pressure level for a predefined period of time.

[0006]According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes a base configured to engage an underlying surface, a body assembly, and a tank assembly for collecting debris material from working air. A suction assembly is in fluid communication with at least one suction inlet. The suction assembly includes a suction source configured to generate a vacuum effect at the at least one suction inlet. An airflow path for the working air is defined from at least one suction inlet, through the tank assembly, and through the suction assembly. A relief valve assembly is disposed along the airflow path. The relief valve assembly includes a relief valve operable between an opened state to allow cooling air into the airflow path at a location separate from at least one suction inlet and a closed state, and a timer operably coupled to the relief valve. The relief valve is configured to adjust to the opened state after a predefined period of time has elapsed upon a predefined vacuum pressure in the airflow path being reached.

[0007]These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008]In the drawings:

[0009]FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a cleaning apparatus, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0010]FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of a cleaning apparatus with a suction assembly and a mechanical relief valve, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0011]FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram of a cleaning apparatus with a suction assembly and a controllable relief valve, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0012]FIG. 3 is a partially exploded, side perspective view of a cleaning apparatus with a tank assembly exploded from a spine section to illustrate a relief valve, according to the present disclosure;

[0013]FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cleaning apparatus of FIG. 4, taken along lines IV-IV, illustrating a suction assembly, a tank assembly, and a relief valve, according to the present disclosure;

[0014]FIG. 5 is a side perspective, cross-sectional view of a suction assembly of a cleaning apparatus, according to the present disclosure;

[0015]FIG. 6 is an enlarged, side perspective, cross-sectional view of a relief valve from FIG. 5, taken at area VI, according to the present disclosure; and

[0016]FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a cleaning apparatus with a controller communicatively coupled with at least one sensor and a relief valve, according to the present disclosure.

[0017]The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018]The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a cleaning apparatus with multi-input pressure relief valve control. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

[0019]For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in FIG. 1. Unless stated otherwise, the term “front” shall refer to the surface of the element closer to an intended viewer, and the term “rear” shall refer to the surface of the element further from the intended viewer. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0020]The terms “including,” “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by “comprises a . . . ” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0021]With reference to FIGS. 1-7, reference numeral 10 generally designates a cleaning apparatus that includes a foot or base 12 for engaging an underlying surface and a body assembly 14 operably coupled to the base 12. The cleaning apparatus 10 also includes a tank assembly 16 for collecting debris materials, as well as a suction assembly 18. The suction assembly 18 is configured to generate a vacuum or suction effect at a suction inlet 20 to draw the debris materials and air into the cleaning apparatus 10 and along an airflow path 22 through the cleaning apparatus 10 to be exhausted via an exhaust outlet 24. A relief valve 26 is disposed along the airflow path 22. The relief valve 26 is operable between an opened state where additional cooling air can be drawn into the airflow path 22 at a location separate from the suction inlet 20 and a closed state. The relief valve 26 is configured to adjust to the opened state when a condition related to the cleaning apparatus 10 is at a predefined difference relative to a baseline level for the condition for a predefined period of time.

[0022]Referring to FIGS. 1-2B, the cleaning apparatus 10 may have a variety of configurations. For example, the cleaning apparatus 10 may be a vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaner may be usable in an upright mode of operation, where the vacuum cleaner can be maneuvered along the underlying surface, such as a floor surface. The vacuum cleaner may also be a portable unit. In such examples, the vacuum cleaner may be hand-carried by a user. The portable vacuum cleaner may be smaller and lighter to allow the user to carry the portable vacuum cleaner. Further, the vacuum cleaner may be operable in the upright mode of operation and may include an attachable portable unit that can be removed and hand-carried by the user.

[0023]The cleaning apparatus 10 includes the suction assembly 18 configured to generate the vacuum effect at the suction inlet 20 to capture the debris materials from a surface being cleaned. Based on the configuration and use of the cleaning apparatus 10, the surface to be cleaned may be an underlying surface or another surface, which may be horizontal or vertical. The vacuum or suction effect generated by the suction assembly 18 draws the air, which may be referred to as working air, and the debris material into the cleaning apparatus 10 and along the airflow path 22.

[0024]The air and debris materials are drawn into a tank 50, which may be referred to as a dirty tank 50, of the tank assembly 16. The captured debris materials are generally collected in the dirty tank 50 for later disposal. The captured debris material may be separated from the working air via a separator 52. The working air is configured to flow through the separator 52, while the debris material is generally too large to flow through the separator 52 and is retained in the dirty tank 50. The air is drawn out of the tank assembly 16 and directed through the suction assembly 18 to be exhausted from the cleaning apparatus 10.

[0025]As the air is directed through the suction assembly 18, the air is configured to reduce or prevent overheating of a suction source 54 of the suction assembly 18. The suction source 54 typically generates heat when activated, which can affect the performance of the suction source 54. The air flowing through the suction assembly 18 can capture or direct the generated heat away from the suction source 54 to be exhausted with the air. Accordingly, the suction source 54 may be considered a flow-through suction source 54 where the air flowing through the suction assembly 18 provides cooling to assist with reducing or preventing overheating of the suction source 54.

[0026]Referring still to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the cleaning apparatus 10 includes the relief valve 26, which may also be referred to as a bleed valve, disposed along and in fluid communication with the airflow path 22. The relief valve 26 is operable between the opened state, which allows cooling air to be drawn into the cleaning apparatus 10 at a location separate from the suction inlet 20, and the closed state, sealing the separate location and reducing or preventing the cooling air from entering the cleaning apparatus 10 at the auxiliary or separate location.

[0027]Depending on the configuration of the cleaning apparatus 10, the relief valve 26 can be disposed anywhere along the airflow path 22 between the suction inlet 20 and the suction source 54. The relief valve 26 is configured to adjust the opened state to provide the cooling air for cooling the suction source 54 when airflow upstream of the relief valve 26 is blocked or significantly reduced, such as from a clogged airflow path 22.

[0028]The relief valve 26 disclosed herein may be controlled based on multiple inputs or conditions to adjust when the relief valve 26 moves to the opened state. In other words, the cleaning apparatus 10 may have or include multi-input pressure relief control. The relief valve 26 may have different configurations based on how the relief valve 26 is controlled. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, the relief valve 26 may be associated or operate with a time-based adjustment feature or timer 60, which affects when the relief valve 26 is opened, as discussed further herein. Additionally or alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, the relief valve 26 may be controlled via a controller 62. In such examples, the relief valve 26 or electronic component coupled with the relief valve 26 may receive an activation or control signal from the controller 62 to move the relief valve 26 between the opened and closed states in response to inputs received by the controller 62, as discussed further herein.

[0029]Components of the cleaning apparatus 10 are electrically coupled with a power source 70, such as a battery or power cord plugged into a household electrical outlet. A power switch 72 between the power source 70 and the electrical components of the cleaning apparatus 10 can be selectively closed by the user to activate the electrical components. The power source 70 may be utilized for powering the cleaning apparatus 10, such as the suction source 54, the relief valve 26, or components coupled to the cleaning apparatus 10.

[0030]Referring again to FIG. 1, as well as FIGS. 3 and 4, an exemplary cleaning apparatus 10 is illustrated. The cleaning apparatus 10 includes the base 12 for engaging the underlying surface and the body assembly 14, which is generally operably coupled with the base 12. The base 12 and the body assembly 14 may be collectively referred to as a housing. The base 12 includes a base housing 80 and wheels 82 operably coupled to the base housing 80. The base 12 is adapted to be moved relative to the surface being cleaned via the wheels 82.

[0031]In various aspects, the base 12 defines, includes, or is coupled with at least one suction inlet 20, which may be referred to as a base suction nozzle 84. Movement of the base 12 is configured to move the base suction nozzle 84 relative to the surface being cleaned. The base 12 may also include an agitator 86 operably coupled with the base housing 80. The agitator 86 is positioned proximate or adjacent to the base suction nozzle 84 and is configured to agitate the surface being cleaned to disrupt the debris material. Disruption of the debris materials on the surface being cleaned may assist with capturing the debris material with the suction effect at the base suction nozzle 84. The agitator 86 may be configured as at least one brushroll, at least one horizontally rotating brushroll, at least one vertically rotating brushroll, at least one stationary brushroll, etc.

[0032]The base 12 includes or defines a base conduit 88 in fluid communication with the base suction nozzle 84. In the illustrated configuration, the base conduit 88 has an inlet end disposed proximate to the agitator 86 and an outlet end operably coupled with the body assembly 14 to provide fluid communication between the base suction nozzle 84 and the body assembly 14. In the illustrated configuration, the base conduit 88 extends through and out of the base housing 80 to provide a physical connection between the base 12 and the body assembly 14. Further, as illustrated, the base conduit 88 extends generally horizontally in the base 12 and then curves to extend generally vertically to engage the body assembly 14. The base conduit 88 is configured to guide the debris material and the working air through the base 12 and to or towards the body assembly 14 along the airflow path 22.

[0033]The body assembly 14 is operably coupled with the base 12 for directing the base 12 across the underlying surface. A coupling 100 may operably couple the body assembly 14 with the base 12. This coupling 100 can be a pivoting, single-axis coupling or a rotational, multi-axis coupling. In the illustrated configuration, the coupling 100 is disposed proximate to the portion of the base conduit 88 that extends between the base 12 and the body assembly 14. The body assembly 14 is generally configured to be an upright body, extending vertically from proximate the base 12.

[0034]Referring still to FIGS. 3 and 4, the body assembly 14 forms one or more portions of the airflow path 22. As illustrated, the body assembly 14 includes a first airflow passage 102 and a second airflow passage 104 of the airflow path 22, which extend generally parallel to one another. The first airflow passage 102 is illustrated as extending along a rear of the cleaning apparatus 10 with the second airflow passage 104 disposed forward of the first airflow passage 102, though other configurations are contemplated without departing from the teachings herein. The first airflow passage 102 is in fluid communication with the base conduit 88. Accordingly, the air and debris material are configured to flow from the base conduit 88 and into the first airflow passage 102 of the body assembly 14.

[0035]The first airflow passage 102 may also be a receiving passage for a tube or wand 110 of the cleaning apparatus 10. An inlet end 114 of the wand 110 is inserted into the first airflow passage 102 and can be configured to lock into the body assembly 14. The wand 110 may also be removed from the first airflow passage 102 to be used separately from the base 12 and/or with an accessory or tool 112. When the wand 110 is removed from the first airflow passage 102, the suction source 54 is no longer in fluid communication with the base 12 due to a disruption in the airflow path 22, and the suction source 54 remains in fluid communication with the wand 110. The inlet end 114 of the wand 110 can form one of the suction inlets 20, which may be referred to as a wand suction nozzle 116, that can be manually maneuvered relative to the cleaning apparatus 10 and the surface being cleaned. This configuration may be advantageous for applying the suction effect at smaller areas or crevices.

[0036]When the wand 110 is removed from the first airflow passage 102, the inlet end 114 may be coupled with the accessory or tool 112. The tool 112 is configured to utilize features and functions of the cleaning apparatus 10, such as the suction assembly 18. In such examples, the suction assembly 18 can be used to generate the suction effect at a tool suction nozzle 118 (i.e., one of the suction inlets 20). Similar to the wand 110, the tool 112 can be manually maneuvered by the user relative to the surface being cleaned. The use of the tool 112 may provide different functions and features to the cleaning apparatus 10 for different cleaning processes. For example, the tool 112 may be a dusting brush, a crevice tool, a wand extension, a pet hair tool, or any other tool 112 that can utilize a suction or vacuum effect. The tool 112 can maximize the user experience by allowing the user to utilize the tool 112, the wand 110, or the base 12 for collecting debris material. Additionally, in examples where the cleaning apparatus 10 is a portable unit or includes the detachable portable unit, the wand 110 and the tool 112 can provide the suction inlet 20 as the user carries the detachable unit separate from the base 12.

[0037]In various aspects, the body assembly 14 includes an accessory receiver 126 for supporting the accessory or tool 112 that can be used with the cleaning apparatus 10. The body assembly 14 can also include one or more cord supports for supporting and stowing the power cord. Further, the body assembly 14 may include a hose support 130 for securing a portion of a hose 132 to the body assembly 14. Additional support features may be included on or supported by the body assembly 14.

[0038]Referring still to FIGS. 3 and 4, as well as FIG. 5, the body assembly 14 also includes a spine section 134. The spine section 134 may support various components and provide connections between components. The spine section 134 at least partially defines or includes the second airflow passage 104, which fluidly couples the tank assembly 16 with the suction assembly 18. The spine section 134 generally projects upwardly from the suction assembly 18. As illustrated, the spine section 134 includes an outer channel 136, and the relief valve 26 extends through an opening 138 in the outer channel 136 of the spine section 134. Sides of the outer channel 136 may assist in retaining space between the relief valve 26 and the tank assembly 16 to allow air to be drawn through the relief valve 26.

[0039]When the wand 110 is positioned in the first airflow passage 102, the wand 110 extends out of the body assembly 14. An outer or exposed end of the wand 110 includes a handle 142 coupled thereto. The handle 142 can be grasped by the user for maneuvering the cleaning apparatus 10 when the wand 110 is disposed in the first airflow passage 102 and/or the wand 110 separately from the base 12 when the wand 110 is removed from the first airflow passage 102.

[0040]The outer, exposed end of the wand 110 is coupled with the hose 132. The hose 132 can be retained in the hose support 130 to reduce movement of the hose 132. The hose 132 can also be released from the hose support 130, which may assist in the maneuverability of the wand 110. The hose 132 extends from the wand 110 and to a connecting passage 148 coupled with the body assembly 14. Generally, the hose 132 includes a hose connector 150 that can be selectively coupled with the connecting passage 148. The connecting passage 148 provides fluid communication between the hose 132 and the tank assembly 16, and, consequently, between the hose 132 and the suction assembly 18.

[0041]Referring still to FIGS. 3-5, the tank assembly 16 is selectively and operably coupled with the body assembly 14. The tank assembly 16 may be supported by or coupled with the spine section 134 and/or the suction assembly 18. In certain aspects, at least a portion of the tank assembly 16 can extend into the outer channel 136 of the spine section 134, which may assist in aligning and positioning the tank assembly 16 on the body assembly 14.

[0042]The tank assembly 16 generally includes the dirty tank 50 and a lid or cover 160. Additionally, the cover 160 often includes a carrying handle 162, which may be advantageous for removing and carrying the dirty tank 50 for disposing of the debris material. Additionally, in configurations where the cleaning apparatus 10 is or includes a portable or detachable unit, the user may carry the portable unit via the carrying handle 162. The tank assembly 16 may also include a lower door 164, which may be advantageous for removing the collected debris materials from the dirty tank 50.

[0043]The tank assembly 16 includes an inlet conduit 166 that mates or couples with the connecting passage 148 of the body assembly 14 to receive the working air and debris material from the hose 132. The tank assembly 16 may include the separator 52 for separating the debris materials from the working air. The separator 52 can have a variety of configurations. For example, the separator 52 may have multiple filtration layers. In such examples, the separator 52 may include a pre-filter or coarse filter, such as a mesh screen, and a fine filter, which collectively facilitate separating the debris materials from the working air. The components of the separator 52 may define different shapes, such as cylindrical, conical, or frustoconical shapes. Further, the components of the separator 52 may provide different levels of filtration, such that different-sized debris material may flow through some components and not others. The separator 52 is configured to retain the captured debris material within the dirty tank 50 while allowing the working air to flow through the separator 52 and out of the tank assembly 16. Various filters, media, cyclonic, and non-cyclonic separation processes may be used to separate the debris material from the working air without departing from the teachings herein.

[0044]The tank assembly 16 also includes an outlet conduit 168. Generally, the outlet conduit 168 is defined or included at an upper portion of the tank assembly 16, such as in the cover 160. This configuration allows the inlet conduit 166 to be vertically lower than the outlet conduit 168 to assist with the debris material being collected in the bottom of the dirty tank 50 and the substantially debris-free working air flowing upward and out of the tank assembly 16. The outlet conduit 168 is configured to mate or couple with an air inlet 174 of the body assembly 14. The air inlet 174 is generally at a top or upper end of the spine section 134 and in fluid communication with the second airflow passage 104. Accordingly, the tank assembly 16 is configured to fluidly couple the hose 132 with the second airflow passage 104 at the spine section 134 of the body assembly 14.

[0045]The second airflow passage 104 extends between the outlet conduit 168 and the suction assembly 18 to provide fluid communication therebetween. The suction assembly 18 may be included in the body assembly 14 or may be a separate component. In certain aspects, the suction assembly 18 may be supported on the base 12 and extend partially into the outer channel 136 of the spine section 134. In examples where the cleaning apparatus 10 is or includes the portable unit, the portable unit may generally include the suction assembly 18 and the tank assembly 16, which can be removed as a single unit from the base 12 and the body assembly 14.

[0046]The suction assembly 18 is in fluid communication with the suction inlet 20 for generating the working airstream through the airflow path 22. When the suction assembly 18 is in fluid communication with the base suction nozzle 84, the airflow path 22 is defined: from the base suction nozzle 84, through the base conduit 88, through the first airflow passage 102, through the wand 110, through the hose 132, through the tank assembly 16, through the second airflow passage 104, and through the suction assembly 18 to be exhausted via the exhaust outlet 24. When the wand 110 is removed from the first airflow passage 102, the airflow path 22 generated by the suction assembly 18 is defined: from the wand suction nozzle 116 or the tool suction nozzle 118, through the wand 110, through the hose 132, through the tank assembly 16, through the second airflow passage 104, and through the suction assembly 18 to be exhausted via the exhaust outlet 24.

[0047]Referring still to FIG. 5, the suction assembly 18 generally includes a duct 178 for guiding the working air from the second airflow passage 104 and into a motor/fan housing 180. Further, the duct 178 may be configured to direct the air along or past the suction source 54 to capture heat generated by the suction source 54. The motor/fan housing 180 houses the suction source 54 and may be one integrated component or formed of several components coupled together. The suction source 54 may be or include a motorized fan assembly or vacuum motor. In various aspects, the suction may include an impeller assembly 182 operably coupled with a motor 184, which drives the impeller assembly 182. A motor shroud 186 may be positioned about the motor 184.

[0048]Additionally, the motor/fan housing 180 may include an exhaust filter 188 disposed proximate to the exhaust outlet 24. The exhaust outlet 24 may be a single opening 138 or multiple openings 138. The working air is directed through the duct 178, around or through the suction source 54 to capture heat, through the exhaust filter 188, and then exhausted from the cleaning apparatus 10.

[0049]The suction source 54 is configured to generate the suction or vacuum effect at the suction inlet 20 and along the airflow path 22 to draw the debris materials into the tank assembly 16 and the working air through the suction assembly 18. In operation, a power button may be used to electrically couple the power source 70 (see FIGS. 2A and 2B) with the suction assembly 18 to activate the suction source 54 to generate the suction or vacuum effect. The user can move the suction inlet 20 relative to the surface being cleaned to draw in the debris materials from the surface being cleaned into the cleaning apparatus 10 with the working air. As described herein, the debris materials are collected in the tank assembly 16 for disposal and the working air flows through the suction assembly 18 to reduce or prevent overheating of the suction source 54.

[0050]Referring now to FIGS. 5-7, the relief valve 26 is disposed along the airflow path 22 to provide a secondary or separate location for air to flow into the airflow path 22, separate from the suction inlet 20 (see FIGS. 2A and 2B), which may be referred to as cooling air. As illustrated, the relief valve 26 is coupled with the spine section 134 of the body assembly 14 to provide fluid communication with the second airflow passage 104. Accordingly, in the illustrated configuration of FIGS. 5 and 6, the relief valve 26 is disposed along the portion of the airflow path 22 between the tank assembly 16 and the suction assembly 18. However, it is contemplated that the relief valve 26 may be disposed anywhere along a negative portion of the airflow path 22 between the suction inlet 20 and the suction source 54. It may be advantageous to have the relief valve 26 upstream of the suction source 54 and downstream of the inlet end 114 of the wand 110 to be disposed along the airflow path 22 for each of the suction nozzles 84, 116, 118 (see FIG. 4) that can be used. Alternatively, multiple relief valves 26 may be utilized without departing from the teachings herein.

[0051]The relief valve 26 is configured to adjust to the opened state in response to at least one and often more than one condition or input. The configuration of the relief valve 26 may affect the conditions or inputs that can change the state of the relief valve 26. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the relief valve 26 may be a mechanical valve. In additional or alternative examples, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the relief valve 26 may be an electronic or electric valve controllable via a signal from the controller 62.

[0052]Referring still to FIG. 6, an exemplary configuration of the relief valve 26 is illustrated where the relief valve 26 includes an insert 200 which extends through the opening 138 of the cleaning apparatus 10 and houses a valve body 202 and a biasing member 204. Generally, the biasing member 204 is a coil spring positioned about the valve body 202. The biasing member 204 may be configured to bias the valve body 202 to the closed state, which generally reduces or blocks the cleaning air from flowing through the opening 138. When the relief valve 26 is in the opened state, the valve body 202 is moved against the biasing force of the biasing member 204, which allows the cooling air to flow into the cleaning apparatus 10 at the location of the relief valve 26 (i.e., the auxiliary location separate from the suction inlet 20).

[0053]In certain aspects, the biasing member 204 may be calibrated such that a sufficient pressure difference between the airflow path 22 and a baseline pressure level, which is generally atmospheric pressure, can move the valve body 202 against the biasing force. The relief valve 26 is adjusted to the opened state, at least in part, due to the pressure difference between an internal vacuum pressure of the airflow path 22 and the baseline pressure. The pressure difference may be caused by the suction effect generated by the suction source 54. If there is insufficient air being drawn into the cleaning apparatus 10 and the suction source 54 is activated to generate the suction effect, a vacuum or negative pressure can be generated or increased in the airflow path 22. The vacuum pressure can be caused by closing the suction inlet 20 or a clog in the airflow path 22. The continued activation of the suction source 54 with reduced airflow to capture heat can increase a risk of overheating the suction source 54.

[0054]In more conventional systems, a bleed valve typically opens automatically when the pressure difference between internal and atmospheric pressures is reached. This can affect a sealed lift of the more conventional cleaning device. The sealed lift is generally a measurement (in inches of water or ″H₂O) of a maximum suction force when an inlet is blocked. A higher sealed lift value generally correlates to a cleaner being able to suction heavier or denser objects. However, bleed valves opening immediately upon the increase in the internal vacuum can significantly lower the available sealed lift at the inlet. In certain aspects, the suction or lift at the inlet can decrease up to between about 10% and about 20% compared to the maximum sealed lift when the bleed valve is opened.

[0055]In comparison, in the present cleaning apparatus 10, the sealed lift or the maximum suction/vacuum available to the user can be increased by controlling the relief valve 26. For example, the relief valve 26 can remain in the closed state as the pressure differential increases. In such circumstances, the internal vacuum pressure increases but the relief valve 26 remains closed and is bypassed.

[0056]Referring again to FIG. 6, the relief valve 26 may be part of a relief valve assembly 210, which also includes the timing adjustment feature, which may also be referred to as the timer 60. The timer 60 can adjust when the relief valve 26 is opened. In other words, the timer 60 can provide a time delay for adjusting the relief valve 26 to the opened state. The relief valve 26 can then be adjusted based on at least two inputs: pressure and time.

[0057]With the relief valve assembly 210, the vacuum pressure of the cleaning apparatus 10 can change to create the predefined pressure differential compared to the baseline pressure. Instead of the relief valve 26 automatically opening, the vacuum pressure reaching a predefined value and/or the predefined pressure differential being reached can trigger or start a “countdown” for the predefined period of time. The predefined period of time may be set during a manufacturing process, calibrated, and/or adjusted or changed. The predefined period of time may be up to about 60 seconds, about 120 seconds, about 4 minutes, or any practicable amount of time.

[0058]The timer 60 may have a variety of configurations such as a rotating timer 60, a feature that disengages the relief valve 26 or the biasing member 204 after the predefined period of time, etc. The relief valve 26 may remain in the closed state during the predefined period of time and, upon the predefined period of time elapsing, may then adjust to the opened state to allow the cooling air into the airflow path 22. The predefined period of time allows the maximum lift to be maintained for the user to use the maximum lift and then allows the cooling air to cool the suction assembly 18.

[0059]The timing aspect may be automatic, such that after the predefined period of time has elapsed, the relief valve 26 is adjusted to the opened state. Additionally or alternatively, the relief valve 26 may be adjusted to the opened state if the pressure difference remains after the predefined period of time has elapsed. In this regard, when the vacuum pressure has reached the predefined pressure difference relative to the baseline pressure (i.e., a predefined vacuum pressure), the timing aspect may be initiated. The pressure may continue to be monitored such that if the pressure difference between the internal vacuum pressure and the baseline pressure is reduced when the time elapses, the relief valve 26 may remain in the closed state. This may be advantageous if the maximum lift causes the airflow path 22 to unclog or if the user temporarily seals the suction inlet 20 for the cleaning process. In this configuration, if the pressure difference remains or has increased after the predefined time has elapsed, then the relief valve 26 may be adjusted to the opened state to cool the suction assembly 18.

[0060]In certain aspects, the relief valve 26 may be a mechanical valve, as illustrated in FIG. 6, and have a built-in or associated time delay component (e.g., the timer 60). In such aspects, the timer 60 may be integrated with or operably coupled with the relief valve 26. When the timer 60 measures or determines that the predefined period of time has elapsed, the timer 60 may move, adjust, or otherwise allow the relief valve 26 to be adjusted to the opened state, such as by the biasing member 204. Accordingly, when the vacuum pressure increases or elevates to a predefined level (or, stated differently, the pressure drops to a predefined negative pressure) such that the pressure differential is sufficient to overcome the biasing force and the predefined period of time elapsed, the relief valve 26 is configured to adjust to the opened state.

[0061]Referring to FIG. 7, the relief valve 26 may be the signal-based controllable valve 26. In such examples, the relief valve 26 is communicatively coupled with the controller 62. The controller 62 may be a designated controller 62 that is part of the relief valve assembly 210 or may be an overall controller 62 for the cleaning apparatus 10. In non-limiting examples, the relief valve assembly 210 includes one or more circuits, such as a circuit board or printed circuit board assembly (PCBA), and a microcontroller 62. The terms controller 62 and microcontroller 62 for the relief valve 26 may be used interchangeably herein. The controller 62 includes a processor 212, a memory 214, and other control circuitry. Instructions or routines 216 are stored within the memory 214 and executable by the processor 212. The routines 216 may include one or more instructions or algorithms for receiving various inputs, monitoring various inputs, processing or analyzing various inputs, and providing various outputs as described herein.

[0062]The controller 62 may include various types of control circuitry, digital or analog, and may include the processor 212, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other circuitry configured to perform the various inputs or outputs, control, analysis, or other functions described herein. The memory 214 disclosed herein may be implemented in a variety of volatile and nonvolatile memory formats, and the routines 216 may include operating instructions to enable the various methods and processes described herein.

[0063]The signal-based relief valve 26 that is controllable via the controller 62 may have a variety of configurations. The relief valve 26 may have the valve body 202 and an associated adjustment feature or control component 226 that moves the valve body 202. The relief valve 26 may be configured as, include, or be operably coupled with the control component 226, which may be, for example, a stepper motor, a solenoid, a motorized valve, a solenoid valve, or similar devices. The actively controlled relief valve 26 can be adjusted between the opened and closed states in response to a signal from the controller 62.

[0064]The controller 62 may be configured to adjust the relief valve 26 between the opened and closed states in response to one and often two or more inputs or conditions. At least one sensor 228 may be communicatively coupled to the controller 62 and configured to sense a condition or conditions related to the cleaning apparatus 10 to provide a sensed value. The controller 62 may be configured to control the relief valve 26 in response to the sensed value for the condition(s) reaching a predefined value for the predefined period of time or a differential between the sensed value and a baseline level exceeding a predefined value for the predefined period of time. The condition may be any one or more of internal pressure, pressure differential, temperature, temperature differential, motor temperature, motor temperature differential, air temperature, air temperature differential, airflow rate, airflow differential, motor current, current differential, etc. The condition may be any practicable condition indicative of low airflow or overheating of one or more components of the suction assembly 18 without departing from the teachings herein.

[0065]In various examples, the condition utilized to control the relief valve 26 is pressure, which may be used in conjunction with time (i.e., two inputs). The cleaning apparatus 10 may include at least one pressure sensor 228a. Typically, this pressure sensor 228a is an internal pressure sensor 228a for sensing the pressure within the airflow path 22. The pressure sensor 228a may be disposed at any location along the airflow path 22 or to sense the airflow path 22.

[0066]Further, there may be multiple internal pressure sensors 228a, which can provide different sensed pressure inputs to the controller 62 at different locations on the airflow path 22. This may be advantageous for identifying where a clog is in the airflow path 22 or identifying a clog in comparison to the maximum lift being used by the user. Accordingly, with multiple internal pressure sensors 228a, the controller 62 may control the relief valve 26 differently based on the different sensed pressures. For example, an increased vacuum sensed proximate to the suction source 54 may result in a shorter predefined period before the relief valve 26 compared to an increased vacuum pressure at the suction inlet 20.

[0067]The controller 62 may receive sensed pressure information (i.e., the sensed pressure value(s)) from at least one internal pressure sensor 228a. The controller 62 may store the baseline pressure or the controller 62 may be in communication with an exterior or atmospheric pressure sensor 228b configured to sense the pressure in an external area surrounding the cleaning apparatus 10. The controller 62 may be configured to compare the sensed internal pressure with the stored baseline pressure and/or the sensed atmospheric pressure to determine a pressure differential. When the sensed pressure value and/or the pressure differential exceeds a threshold, the controller 62 may send the signal to the relief valve 26 to adjust the relief valve 26 to the opened state.

[0068]Further, the controller 62 may retain the relief valve 26 in the closed state until the predefined period of time has elapsed after determining the pressure differential. The controller 62 may store a time delay or multiple time delays for certain conditions (e.g., the pressure differential, where the increased vacuum pressure is located, etc.). The controller 62 may wait for the predefined period of time to elapse before sending the signal to open the relief valve 26. Accordingly, the controller 62 may utilize both pressure and time to control the relief valve 26.

[0069]In addition or in lieu of time and/or pressure, the controller 62 may utilize temperature as at least one of the conditions for controlling the relief valve 26 sensed by one or more temperature sensors 228c. For example, a temperature of the suction source 54 and/or a temperature of the working air in the motor/fan housing 180 may be indicative of overheating of the suction source 54 and/or lack of airflow at the suction source 54.

[0070]When the sensed temperature or sensed temperature value has increased to a predefined temperature to exceed a threshold or has increased relative to a baseline level to form a predefined temperature differential, the controller 62 may be configured to adjust the relief valve 26 to the opened state to allow the cooling air to be drawn into the cleaning apparatus 10. Further, when temperature is used in conjunction with time, the controller 62 may wait until the sensed temperature is at the predefined level relative to the baseline (i.e., a predefined temperature differential) for the predefined period of time before sending the signal to open the relief valve 26.

[0071]Additionally or alternatively, the controller 62 may utilize motor current as the condition, which can be utilized alone or in conjunction with time and/or another condition. The motor 184 may include or be associated with a current sensor 228d to monitor the current utilized by the motor 184. When the motor current changes to reach a predefined level or a predefined threshold compared to a baseline current level to form a predefined current differential, the controller 62 may adjust the relief valve 26 to the opened state or wait for the predefined period of time to elapse to send the activation signal.

[0072]In additional non-limiting examples, the controller 62 may utilize airflow rate as the condition, which can be utilized alone or in conjunction with time and/or another condition. The cleaning apparatus 10 may include at least one airflow sensor 228e disposed in or along with airflow path 22. When the sensed airflow value or airflow rate lowers or has decreased to a predefined level or a predefined threshold and/or forms a predefined airflow differential compared to a baseline airflow level, the controller 62 may adjust the relief valve 26 to the opened state or wait for the predefined period of time to elapse to send the signal.

[0073]The conditions set forth herein are merely exemplary and not meant to be limiting. The conditions disclosed relate to or are indicative of overheating of the suction source 54. Any condition related to or indicative of overheating of the suction source 54 may be utilized by the controller 62 for controlling the relief valve 26 without departing from the teachings herein.

[0074]Further, multiple conditions can be used in combination with one another for controlling the relief valve 26. For example, the controller 62 may adjust the relief valve 26 to the opened state in response to pressure reaching a predefined pressure differential and temperature reaching a predefined temperature differential. In another non-limiting example, the controller 62 may adjust the relief valve 26 based on a combination of conditions and time. For example, the controller 62 may adjust the relief valve 26 to the opened state in response to the pressure reaching the predefined pressure differential, the temperature reaching the predefined temperature differential, and the predefined period of time elapsing. The controller 62 may be programmed and reprogrammed to adjust which conditions and inputs are utilized for controlling the relief valve 26. The controller 62 may utilize any of the conditions disclosed herein or other similar conditions indicative of a blocked airflow path 22 along with combinations thereof. Moreover, the controller 62 may directly control the relief valve 26 or may indirectly control the relief valve 26 by adjusting a component that is associated with movement of the relief valve 26, such as the timer 60, the control component 226, etc.

[0075]Referring again to FIGS. 6 and 7, the biasing member 204 and/or the controller 62 may be configured to adjust the relief valve 26 to the opened state in response to the sensed value for the condition(s) reaching or exceeding a predefined value. Additionally or alternatively, the biasing member 204 and/or the controller 62 may be configured to adjust the relief valve 26 to the opened state upon the differential between the sensed value and the baseline level for the condition exceeding a predetermined value or differential. Typically, the sensed value reaching the threshold and/or the differential being formed triggers the timing aspect. In this regard, the relief valve 26 is configured to open after the predefined period of time elapses upon the differential or sensed level reaching and/or maintaining the predefined level.

[0076]Further, the biasing member 204 and/or the controller 62 may be configured to adjust the relief valve 26 to the closed state upon the condition (e.g., pressure, temperature, airflow, motor current, etc.) returning to the baseline level or a predefined baseline or operating range. The biasing member 204 and the controller 62 may repeatedly adjust the relief valve 26 between the opened and closed states based on the condition(s) of the cleaning apparatus 10 and/or time.

[0077]Referring to FIGS. 1-7, the sealed lift may increase the user experience and allow the user to utilize the maximum suction during the cleaning process, as well as maximize sealed lift testing for the cleaning apparatus 10. In general, as airflow increases, the lift decreases. For example, lift was tested relative to airflow using the BISSELL Upright Vacuum Model No. 16502. When the airflow was between 45 CFM and 50 CFM, the lift was about less than five ″H₂O. In comparison, when the airflow was about zero CFM, the lift was between 50 ″H₂O and 60 ″H₂O. The relationship was found to be generally linear. Accordingly, the maximum lift can be greatly affected by sealing the suction inlet 20 and retaining the relief valve 26 in the closed state for the predefined period of time. The maximum lift may be useful for the cleaning process, such as for providing an increased suction effect to draw the debris material into the suction inlet 20.

[0078]Use of the present device may provide for a variety of advantages. For example, the cleaning apparatus 10 may utilize one or more inputs for controlling the relief valve 26. Further, the relief valve 26 may not automatically adjust immediately upon the internal vacuum pressure reaching the predefined differential with the baseline pressure. Additionally, the controllable relief valve 26 may allow the user to use the maximum lift for the predefined period of time. Further, the relief valve 26 may be utilized to maintain the maximum lift for the predefined period of time and then also allow cooling air to flow into the cleaning apparatus 10 to cool the suction source 54. Also, the relief valve 26 may be a mechanical valve with a timing aspect or may be a valve controlled via a signal. Additional benefits or advantages may be realized in/or achieved.

[0079]The device disclosed herein is further summarized in the following paragraphs and is further characterized by combinations of any and all various aspects described herein.

[0080]According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes a base configured to engage an underlying surface, a body assembly, and a tank assembly for collecting debris material from working air. A suction assembly is in fluid communication with a suction inlet. The suction assembly includes a suction source configured to generate a vacuum effect at the suction inlet. An airflow path for the working air is defined from the suction inlet, through the tank assembly, and the suction assembly. A sensor is configured to sense a condition of the cleaning apparatus. A relief valve is disposed along the airflow path. The relief valve is operable between an opened state to allow cooling air into the airflow path at a location separate from the suction inlet and a closed state. A controller is communicatively coupled with the relief valve and the sensor where the relief valve is configured to adjust to the opened state in response to an activation signal from the controller. The controller is configured to send the activation signal when the condition is sensed at a predefined level compared to a baseline level for a predefined period of time.

[0081]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a sensor is an airflow sensor and a condition is airflow rate. A controller is configured to send an activation signal when a sensed value for the airflow rate in an airflow path has decreased to form a differential that exceeds a predetermined value.

[0082]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a suction source includes a motor. A condition the sensor is configured to sense is motor current.

[0083]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a sensor is a temperature sensor and a condition is temperature. A controller is configured to send an activation signal when a sensed value for the temperature in an airflow path has increased to form a differential that exceeds a predetermined value.

[0084]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a sensor is a pressure sensor and a condition is pressure. A controller is configured to send an activation signal when a sensed value for the pressure in an airflow path forms a vacuum that forms a differential that exceeds a predetermined value.

[0085]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one of a stepper motor and a solenoid is operably coupled with a relief valve.

[0086]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a body assembly includes a spine section extending from proximate to a suction assembly. The body assembly includes a portion of the airflow path. The spine section defines an opening into the portion of the airflow path. The relief valve is disposed in the opening.

[0087]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes a base, a body assembly, a tank assembly, and a suction assembly. The suction assembly includes a suction source in fluid communication with a suction inlet via an airflow path defined from the suction inlet, through the tank assembly, and through the suction assembly. A relief valve is disposed along the airflow path upstream of the suction assembly. The relief valve is operable between a closed state and an opened state. A pressure sensor is configured to sense pressure in the airflow path. A controller is communicatively coupled with the relief valve and the pressure sensor. The controller is configured to adjust the relief valve to the opened state to allow cooling air into the airflow path at a location separate from the suction inlet when the airflow path is at an elevated vacuum pressure relative to a baseline pressure level for a predefined period of time.

[0088]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a base defines a suction inlet. The suction inlet is in fluid communication with a suction assembly via a body assembly and a tank assembly.

[0089]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a hose is coupled with a wand, and a tool is coupled with the wand. The tool a the suction inlet. The suction inlet is in fluid communication with a suction assembly via the wand, the hose, and a tank assembly.

[0090]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a baseline pressure level is sensed by an exterior pressure sensor.

[0091]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one of a stepper motor and a solenoid operably is coupled with the relief valve.

[0092]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a predefined period of time is up to about 120 seconds.

[0093]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a relief valve is disposed along an airflow path between a tank assembly and a suction assembly.

[0094]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one of a temperature sensor is configured to sense temperature of at least one of working air in an airflow path and a suction source and a current sensor is configured to sense a current of a suction source. A controller is configured to control a relief valve in response to sensed information from the at least one of the temperature sensor and the current sensor.

[0095]According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes a base configured to engage an underlying surface, a body assembly, and a tank assembly for collecting debris material from working air. A suction assembly is in fluid communication with at least one suction inlet. The suction assembly includes a suction source configured to generate a vacuum effect at the at least one suction inlet. An airflow path for the working air is defined from at least one suction inlet, through the tank assembly, and through the suction assembly. A relief valve assembly is disposed along the airflow path. The relief valve assembly includes a relief valve operable between an opened state to allow cooling air into the airflow path at a location separate from at least one suction inlet and a closed state, and a timer operably coupled to the relief valve. The relief valve is configured to adjust to the opened state after a predefined period of time has elapsed upon a predefined vacuum pressure in the airflow path being reached.

[0096]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a relief valve includes a valve body and a biasing member. The biasing member biases the valve body to a closed state.

[0097]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a timer is configured to maintain a relief valve in a closed state for a predefined period of time. The timer is configured to allow a valve body to be moved against a biasing force of the biasing member by a predefined vacuum pressure after the predefined period of time has elapsed to adjust the relief valve to an opened state.

[0098]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a relief valve is configured to adjust to an opened state when a predefined vacuum pressure is maintained in an airflow path for a predefined period of time.

[0099]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a wand is operably coupled with a body assembly via a hose. At least one suction inlet includes a base suction nozzle defined by a base and a wand suction nozzle defined by the wand.

[0100]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning apparatus includes a base configured to engage an underlying surface, a body assembly, and a tank assembly for collecting debris material from working air. A suction assembly is in fluid communication with a suction inlet. The suction assembly includes a suction source configured to generate a vacuum effect at the suction inlet. An airflow path for the working air is defined from the suction inlet, through the tank assembly, and the suction assembly. A relief valve is disposed along the airflow path. The relief valve is operable between an opened state to allow cooling air into the airflow path at a location separate from the suction inlet and a closed state. The relief valve is configured to adjust to the opened state in response when a negative pressure is generated along the airflow path for a predefined period of time.

[0101]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a relief valve includes a valve body and a biasing member configured to bias the valve body to a closed state.

[0102]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a biasing member is calibrated such that a predefined pressure difference between an airflow path and a baseline pressure level can move a valve body against a biasing force.

[0103]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a valve body is moved against a biasing force of a biasing member to an opened state.

[0104]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a relief valve assembly includes a relief valve and a timing adjustment feature that is configured to adjust when the relief valve is moved to an opened state.

[0105]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a relief valve remains in a closed state in response to a vacuum pressure reaching a predefined pressure differential with a baseline during a predefined period of time and, upon the predefined period of time elapsing, adjusts to an opened state to allow cooling air into an airflow path.

[0106]According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a relief valve remains in a closed state in response to a vacuum pressure reaching a predefined pressure differential with a baseline during a predefined period of time and, upon the predefined period of time elapsing and the pressure differential being maintained, adjusts to an opened state to allow cooling air into an airflow path.

[0107]It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.

[0108]For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.

[0109]It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes, and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0110]It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.