SUCTION APPARATUS AND SEPARATING UNIT FOR A SUCTION APPARATUS HAVING A FLAP WITH RESTRICTED MOVEMENT

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the priority, under 35 U.S.C. § 119, of German Patent Application DE 10 2024 203 006.6, filed Mar. 28, 2024; the prior application is herewith incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a separating unit for a suction apparatus, in particular for a cordless and/or handheld vacuum cleaner. The invention also relates to a suction apparatus having a separating unit.

A suction apparatus, in particular a handheld vacuum cleaner, typically includes a suction unit which can be carried and guided by hand by a user. The suction unit has a fan which is operated by electrical energy from an electrical energy storage device of the suction unit. The fan is configured to generate a suction air flow in order to suck dirt through the suction nozzle of the suction unit into the separating unit of the suction unit, the separating unit having a collecting container for dirt. In order to increase the suction power of the suction unit the suction air flow is preferably introduced into the separating unit and/or guided inside the separating unit, such that the suction air flow flows inside the separating unit in the manner of a cyclone around the central filter unit of the separating unit.

German Patent Application DE 10 2021 203 242 A1 describes a dirt filter for a vacuum cleaner. Chinese Patent Application CN 1 12 401 741 A describes a vacuum cleaner device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a suction apparatus and a separating unit for a suction apparatus having a flap with restricted movement, which overcome the hereinafore-mentioned disadvantages of the heretofore-known devices of this general type and which further optimize the direction of flow of the suction air flow inside the separating unit of a suction unit, in particular to achieve a permanently high suction power even when the suction unit is in prolonged use.

With the foregoing and other objects in view there is provided, in accordance with the invention, a separating unit for a suction apparatus, wherein the separating unit comprises a collecting container enclosed by a housing wall, the collecting container has an inlet opening for a suction air flow which is disposed on the housing wall and covered with a flexible flap, the flexible flap is fastened to the housing wall via a leading edge of the flap, the flap has a first portion and a subsequent second portion along the leading edge, the flap is configured such that the flap is bent away from the housing wall into the collecting container by an external force acting on the flap and as a result exposes the inlet opening at least in part, and the separating unit is configured such that the bending away of the first portion of the flap is more greatly restricted than the bending away of the second portion of the flap.

Advantageous forms of embodiment are in particular defined in the dependent claims, are described in the following description, or are illustrated in the appended drawing.

In accordance with one aspect, a separating unit for a suction apparatus is described. The separating unit includes a collecting container enclosed by a housing wall. The separating unit can have a longitudinal axis, and the housing wall of the collecting container can be configured to be (circular) cylindrical about the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis can run centrally inside the collecting container. The housing wall can for example correspond to the lateral surface of a hollow cylinder and/or the longitudinal axis can correspond to the vertical axis of the hollow cylinder. The collecting container can extend from a first end face (e.g. end surface or end plane) along the longitudinal axis to a second end face (e.g. end surface or end plane). The first end face can face the fan of the suction apparatus. A lid for emptying the collecting container can be disposed on the opposing second end face.

The collecting container can have a particular total length (e.g. between 10 cm and 20 cm) along the longitudinal axis from the first end face to the second end face. Furthermore, the collecting container can have a particular total diameter (e.g. between 8 cm and 12 cm) transversely to the longitudinal axis (i.e. in the radial direction to the longitudinal axis).

The first end face (on which the fan is disposed) can run substantially completely inside a particular transverse plane which is disposed perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis. The second end face (on which the lid is disposed) can run inside a plane which is disposed obliquely to the longitudinal axis, wherein the oblique arrangement of the second end face and in particular of the lid may be advantageous for emptying the collecting container.

The collecting container has an inlet opening disposed on the housing wall, which is preferably closed and/or covered with a (flexible) flap. The flap can be made of plastic, in particular a flexible and/or elastic plastic. The inlet opening is preferably disposed on top of the collecting container (which is intended to be aligned upward during operation). Furthermore, the inlet opening is preferably disposed on the first end face of the collecting container. The inlet opening of the first end face of the collecting container along the longitudinal axis is at least preferably closer than the opposing second end face of the collecting container.

The separating unit can further include a filter unit disposed in the collecting container, which is configured to retain dirt particles from the suction air flow (entering the collecting container through the inlet opening) on the surface of the filter unit, the surface of the filter unit preferably being configured to be (circular) cylindrical about the longitudinal axis. The separating unit is preferably configured such that the suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening flows around the filter unit (along the circumferential direction) in the manner of a cyclone. The separating unit can for this purpose be configured such that the suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening has a direction of flow which runs substantially in the circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis.

The (cylindrical) filter unit and the (cylindrical) collecting container preferably have the same central longitudinal axis. Typically disposed between the surface of the filter unit and the inside of the collecting container is the collecting area for receiving the dirt particles sucked up.

The flap at the inlet opening can have a (rectangular) total surface area for (complete) coverage of the (rectangular) inlet opening. The flap and the inlet opening can each have two longitudinal edges (opposing one another along the circumferential direction) and two transverse edges (opposing one another along the longitudinal axis). The flap can be attached to a leading edge at the housing wall. The leading edge can be aligned in parallel to the longitudinal axis (i.e. the leading edge can correspond to a longitudinal edge). On the other hand, the flap can be freely movable on both the transverse edges and on the other longitudinal edge (so that the flap can bend away from the inlet opening into the collecting container in order to open or expose a portion of the inlet opening).

The flap has a first portion and a subsequent second portion along the leading edge (in particular along the longitudinal axis). The first portion of the flap can face the first end face of the collecting container (and the first transverse edge of the flap), and the second portion of the flap can face the second end face of the collecting container (and the second transverse edge of the flap). Alternatively or additionally, the first portion of the flap of the first end face of the collecting container can be closer than the second portion of the flap.

The flexible flap is configured such that the flap is bent away from the housing wall or away from the inlet opening and/or into the collecting container by an external force acting (in the radial direction) on the flap and as a result exposes the inlet opening at least in part. The flap can for example be bent toward the surface of the filter unit. The force for bending the flap away can be caused by the suction air flow flowing through the inlet opening into the collecting container from outside.

The separating unit can be configured such that the bending away of the first portion of the flap is more restricted and/or limited than the bending away of the second portion of the flap. Thus in an efficient and reliable manner an impulse can be applied (by the flap) to the suction air flow flowing through the inlet opening, by which the suction power of the suction apparatus and/or the dust separation quality of the separating unit are improved.

The separating unit is preferably configured such that the suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening (in the circumferential direction) flows around the longitudinal axis (in particular around the surface of the filter unit). The separating unit can further be configured such that because the bending away of the first portion of the flap is more restricted than the bending away of the second portion of the flap, the flap is aligned in respect of the inflowing suction air flow such that the suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening receives an impulse in the direction of the longitudinal axis. This can cause the suction air flow inside the collecting container to flow helically around the longitudinal axis. Thus in an efficient and reliable manner the dirt particles carried with the suction air flow can be caused to move away from the inlet opening (toward the second end face of the collecting container), as a result of which the suction power and/or the separation quality can be increased to a particularly high degree.

The separating unit can have a (mechanical) barrier (which is disposed inside the collecting container), by which the bending away of the first portion of the flap, and in particular not the bending away of the second portion of the flap, is selectively restricted. The separating unit can for example have a support surface (formed by the barrier) for supporting the first portion of the flap, the support surface being configured to restrict the bending away of the first portion of the flap. The support surface can be configured to receive the reverse of the flap (in the region of the first portion of the flap) facing away from the inlet opening. In particular, the separating unit can be configured such that the reverse of the first portion of the flap rests on the support surface if an external force acts on the flap in the radial direction (the force being caused for example by the suction air flow).

By providing a mechanical barrier, the suction air flow circulating inside the collecting container around the longitudinal axis can be partially blocked in the region of the reverse of the flap (facing the collecting container). In consequence, the closing force acting on the reverse of the flap to close the flap is reduced, as a result of which the force required to open the flap is reduced. In consequence, the suction power of the suction apparatus can be further increased.

The separating unit is preferably configured such that the bending away of the second portion of the flap is not substantially restricted, in particular not by a (mechanical) barrier. This means that the inlet opening can still be opened sufficiently wide for the receipt of coarse dirt.

The separating unit can include an ejection and/or compacting element which is configured to be moved inside the collecting container in order to compact dirt particles disposed in the collecting container and/or to eject them from the collecting container (via the second end face). The ejection and/or compacting element can in particular be configured to be moved (starting from an initial position, for example disposed on the first end face) along the longitudinal axis over the surface of the filter unit (in particular toward the second end face of the collecting container).

The ejection and/or compacting element can be configured to form a (mechanical) barrier, which is restricted by the selective bending away of the first portion of the flap (and not of the second portion of the flap). For this purpose the ejection and/or compacting element is disposed in the initial position preferably along the radial direction (in respect of the longitudinal axis) flush with the first portion of the flap. By using the ejection and/or compacting element as a barrier the selective limitation of the freedom of movement of the first portion of the flap can be achieved in a particularly efficient and reliable manner.

The ejection and/or compacting element is preferably configured as a ring with an inner edge facing the surface of the filter unit and an outer edge facing the housing wall. A surface of the ring (which faces the second end face of the collecting container) running between the inner edge and the outer edge can be configured in an efficient and reliable manner as a support surface for storing the first portion of the flap.

The normal vector of the support surface (standing perpendicular to the support surface) can run obliquely to the longitudinal axis. The angle between the longitudinal axis and the normal vector of the support surface is preferably between 10° and 45°. Furthermore, the normal vector of the support surface can have a directional component which points in a radial direction out of the collecting container. With a support surface configured in this way, the flap can be aligned in a particularly advantageous manner to create a helical suction air flow inside the collecting container.

The (annular) ejection and/or compacting element can have an annular surface which includes the support surface for the first portion of the flap. The annular surface of the ejection and/or compacting element can extend in the radial direction from the inner edge to the outer edge. The annular surface can face the second end face of the collecting container. The normal vector of the annular surface can with increasing angular distance from the support surface be aligned in parallel to the longitudinal axis. The annular surface of the ejection and/or compacting element can thus have a section (which serves as a support surface for the flexible flap) which is inclined (in respect of the longitudinal axis). Outside the inclined section, the annular surface of the ejection and/or compacting element can run substantially inside the transverse plane (aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis). Thus, even when providing an obliquely aligned support surface for the flap, a reliable compacting and/or ejection function of the ejection and/or compacting element can still be provided.

The flap can have a linear predetermined bending point, which enables the second portion to be bent about an additional bending axis. The predetermined bending point and/or the additional bending axis can run linearly between the first portion and the second portion. Due to the leading edge of flap a main bending axis of the flap can be formed (around the longitudinal axis). The predetermined bending point and/or the additional bending axis can be aligned obliquely to the main bending axis.

The predetermined bending point can be implemented as a local (linear) thinning and/or by a locally changed material of the flap. In particular, the flap along the additional bending axis can have a locally thinner and/or different material (compared to the regions of the flap without a predetermined bending point). The linear predetermined bending point can in particular be configured as a film hinge, in particular if the flap is made of plastic, in particular a flexible plastic.

The flap can be configured such that the second portion of the flap is bent about the additional bending axis into the collecting container by an external force acting (in the radial direction) on the second portion. By providing a flap with a linear predetermined bending point the impulse caused by the flap (along the longitudinal axis) can be further strengthened, in order to cause a helical suction air flow in a particularly reliable manner.

As already explained above, the additional bending axis of the predetermined bending point can run obliquely to the main bending axis (i.e. to the leading edge), in particular such that a triangular second portion is formed by the predetermined bending point. Thus the impulse caused by the flap (along the longitudinal axis) can be further strengthened.

In accordance with a further aspect, a further separating unit for a suction apparatus is described. As already explained, the separating unit includes a collecting container enclosed by a housing wall. The collecting container can extend along the longitudinal axis from the first end face to the opposing second end face. A (cylindrical) filter unit can be disposed in the collecting container. The above-described features of the separating unit and in particular of the collecting container can also be applied individually or in combination for this separating unit.

The collecting container has an inlet opening for a suction air flow disposed on the housing wall. The inlet opening is preferably covered by a flexible flap (as explained above). The inlet opening is preferably disposed on the first end face of the collecting container. The inlet opening of the first end face of the collecting container along the longitudinal axis can at least be closer than the opposing second end face of the collecting container.

The separating unit is preferably configured such that a suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening has a direction of flow running in the circumferential direction in respect of the longitudinal axis. The separating unit can in particular be configured as a centrifugal separator. For this purpose the direction of flow of the suction air flow at the inlet opening can have a directional component in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, the direction of flow of the suction air flow at the inlet opening can have a (relatively small) directional component in the radial direction. On the other hand, the direction of flow of the suction air flow at the inlet opening typically does not substantially have a directional component along the longitudinal axis.

The separating unit can include a deflection element which has a surface which acts on the suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening. The surface of the deflection element can be configured as a guide surface to guide the suction air flow. At least part of the suction air flow flowing into the collecting container through the inlet opening can thus strike the surface of the deflection element, in particular an inclined section of the deflection element. The normal vector of the inclined section of the surface of the deflection element can run obliquely to the longitudinal axis. The normal vector of the inclined section of the surface of the deflection element preferably has an angle to the longitudinal axis of between 10° and 45°, in particular between 15° and 25°.

By using a deflection element with an inclined section an impulse can be applied to the suction air flow flowing through the inlet opening, by which the suction power of the suction apparatus and/or the dust separation quality of the separating unit can be improved.

The inclined section of the surface of the deflection element can in particular be aligned such that the suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening receives an impulse in the direction of the longitudinal axis. As a result, the suction air flow inside the collecting container flows helically around the longitudinal axis. Thus in an efficient and reliable manner the dirt particles carried with the suction air flow can be moved away from the inlet opening (toward the second end face of the collecting container), as a result of which the suction power and/or the separation quality can be increased to a particularly high degree.

The inclined section of the surface of the deflection element is preferably disposed flush with the inlet opening (in particular with the first transverse edge of the inlet opening facing the first end face) in the radial direction in respect of the longitudinal axis. Thus an impulse can be applied to the suction air flow in the direction of flow directly behind the inlet opening in order to generate the helical suction air flow in a particularly reliable manner.

The surface of the deflection element can be configured such that the normal vector of the surface of the deflection element is with increasing distance along the direction of flow of the suction air flow increasingly, in particular progressively, aligned in parallel to the longitudinal axis, in particular such that as from a predefined distance the normal vector of the surface of the deflection element is aligned in parallel to the longitudinal axis. By progressively changing the alignment of the surface of the deflection element, the direction of flow of the suction air flow can be aligned toward the longitudinal axis in a particularly efficient manner (in particular without causing turbulence).

The normal vector of the inclined section of the surface of the deflection element preferably has a directional component which points in the radial direction out of the collecting container. Due to a surface configured in this way a helical suction air flow inside the collecting container can be achieved in a particularly reliable manner.

Furthermore, the normal vector of the inclined section of the surface of the deflection element is preferably aligned toward the second end face of the collecting container. Thus a helical suction air flow inside the collecting container toward the second end face of the collecting container can be achieved in a particularly reliable manner.

It may be noted that at least one portion of the inclined section of the surface of the deflection element can serve as a support surface for the flexible flap of the separating unit (as explained above). Thus a change in the direction of flow of the suction air flow can be achieved in a particularly reliable manner.

As already explained, the housing wall of the collecting container preferably runs cylindrically, in particular circular cylindrically, about the longitudinal axis. The deflection element can run annularly along the inside of the housing wall around the longitudinal axis. In this case the annular deflection element can have an outer edge facing the housing wall and an inner edge facing away from the housing wall, in particular facing the filter unit of the separating unit.

The surface of the deflection element can be disposed at a first angular position in respect of the longitudinal axis along the radial direction flush with the inlet opening (in particular with the first transverse edge of the inlet opening). The inclined section of the surface of the deflection element can thus be disposed in the region of the first angular position (for example starting from the first angular position). The first angular position can for example have the value 0°.

The inner edge at the first angular position can have an inner edge distance with a first distance value from a reference plane disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (wherein the reference plane for example corresponds to the reverse of the deflection element facing away from the surface of the deflection element). At the first angular position the outer edge can have an outer edge distance with a second distance value from the reference plane. The first distance value can be less than the second distance value.

As already explained, the collecting container can have a particular total length from the first end face to the second end face. The second distance value can for example be between 0.5% and 2% of the total length higher or larger than the first distance value. Thus the inclined section of the surface of the deflection element can be provided in a particularly reliable manner.

The inner edge distance and the outer edge distance can align with increasing angular distance, in particular progressively, so that as from a second angular position the inner edge distance and the outer edge distance have the same distance value, in particular the first distance value. The second angular position is (in the circumferential direction) preferably between 70° and 110°, for instance 90°, away from the first angular position. By aligning the distance values, the normal vector of the surface of the deflection element can little by little be aligned in parallel to the longitudinal axis. Thus a particularly reliable change in the direction of flow of the suction air flow can be achieved.

The inner edge distance and the outer edge distance can each have the same distance value as from the second angular position. In this case the shared distance value can (progressively) increase with increasing angular distance from the second angular position, in particular such that the inner edge distance and the outer edge distance have a third distance value at a third angular position. The third angular position can for example be between 350° and 360°, for instance between 353° and 359°, away from the first angular position. Furthermore, the third distance value can be 5% or more, in particular between 5% and 20%, of the total length of the collecting container higher or larger than the first distance value.

Between the third angular position and the first angular position, the surface of the annular deflection element can have a step at which the distance value of the inner edge distance and of the outer edge distance is reduced (abruptly) to the second distance value or to the first distance value.

Thus a deflection element can be provided which (in the circumferential direction) has a ramped surface which acts on the suction air flow in the collecting container (and thus serves as a guide surface for the suction air flow). Thus a helical suction air flow can be achieved in a particularly reliable manner.

As already explained, the separating unit can include an (annular) ejection and/or compacting element which is configured to be moved inside the collecting container in order to compact the dirt particles disposed in the collecting container and/or to eject them from the collecting container. The ejection and/or compacting element can in particular be configured (starting from the initial position, for example disposed at the first end face) to be moved along the longitudinal axis over the surface of the filter unit (in particular toward the second end face of the collecting container). In the initial position the ejection and/or compacting element is preferably disposed along the radial direction (in respect of the longitudinal axis) flush with the inlet opening (in particular with the first transverse edge of the inlet opening).

In a preferred embodiment the ejection and/or compacting element is configured as a deflection element which has a surface which acts on the suction air flow. In other words, the deflection element can be configured as an (annular) ejection and/or compacting element. Thus the direction of flow of the suction air flow can be achieved in a particularly efficient manner.

In accordance with a further aspect, a further separating unit for a suction apparatus is described. As already explained, the separating unit includes a (cylindrical) collecting container enclosed by a housing wall. The collecting container can extend along the longitudinal axis from the first end face to the opposing second end face. A (cylindrical) filter unit can be disposed in the collecting container. The features described above of the separating unit and in particular of the collecting container can also be applied individually or in combination for this separating unit.

The collecting container has an inlet opening for a suction air flow disposed on the housing wall. The inlet opening is preferably covered by a flexible flap (as explained above). The inlet opening is preferably disposed on the first end face of the collecting container. The inlet opening of the first end face of the collecting container along the longitudinal axis can at least be closer than the opposing second end face of the collecting container.

The separating unit is preferably configured such that a suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening has a direction of flow running in the circumferential direction in respect of the longitudinal axis. The separating unit can in particular be configured as a centrifugal separator. For this purpose the direction of flow of the suction air flow at the inlet opening can have a directional component in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, the direction of flow of the suction air flow at the inlet opening can have a (relatively small) directional component in the radial direction. On the other hand, the direction of flow of the suction air flow at the inlet opening typically substantially does not have a directional component along the longitudinal axis.

The separating unit can include an (annular) deflection element which has a surface which acts on the suction air flow entering the collecting container through the inlet opening. At least part of the suction air flow flowing into the collecting container through the inlet opening can thus strike the surface of the deflection element. The surface of the deflection element can be configured as a guide surface to guide the suction air flow.

The surface of the (annular) deflection element can at least in one subsection run helically and/or spirally along the inside of the housing wall around the longitudinal axis, so that the surface of the deflection element has a step with a first edge and a second edge, the first edge and the second edge being spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis. The pitch of the helical and/or spiral shape can run along (in particular in parallel to) the longitudinal axis. Furthermore, the pitch can correspond to the height of the step between the first edge and the second edge. The second edge can for example be spaced apart from the first edge by 5% or more, in particular between 5% and 20%, of the total length of the collecting container along the longitudinal axis (i.e. the pitch of the helical and/or spiral shape can correspond to 5% or more, in particular between 5% and 20%, of the total length of the collecting container).

By providing a helical and/or spiral guide surface for the suction air flow entering the collecting container an impulse can be applied to the suction air flow in the direction of the longitudinal axis in an efficient and reliable manner. This means that the suction air flow inside the collecting container flows helically around the longitudinal axis. Thus in an efficient and reliable manner the dirt particles carried with the suction air flow can be caused to move away from the inlet opening (toward the second end face of the collecting container), as a result of which the suction power and/or the separation quality can be increased.

The step on the surface of the deflection element preferably runs obliquely to the longitudinal axis. In particular, the step on the surface of the deflection element can have an angle to the longitudinal axis of between 1° and 7°, in particular between 2° and 6°, for instance of 5°. Due to an inclined step, turbulence at the (second) edge of the step can be prevented in a reliable manner, as a result of which the suction power and/or the separation quality of the separating unit can be further increased.

The surface of the deflection element can in each case be rounded at the first edge and/or at the second edge in the circumferential direction (for example with a particular rounding radius). By rounding the first and/or the second edge, turbulence of the suction air flow at the step can be prevented in a particularly reliable manner, as a result of which the suction power and/or the separation quality of the separating unit can be further increased.

As already explained, the deflection element can be configured to be annular (around the longitudinal axis). The step, in particular the first edge of the step, can be disposed at a particular angular position in respect of the longitudinal axis. This angular position can be referred to as the first angular position (and can for example correspond to 0°). The surface of the deflection element can then run, starting from the first angular position, (exactly once) about the longitudinal axis (and can thus cover an angular range of 360°).

The surface of the deflection element (in particular the first edge of the step) can be disposed at the first angular position in respect of the longitudinal axis along the radial direction flush with the inlet opening, in particular flush with the first transverse edge of the (rectangular) inlet opening facing the first end face. Furthermore, the surface of the deflection element can be increasingly displaced along the longitudinal axis toward the second end face subsequent to the first angular position with increasing angular distance from the first angular position, so that the helical surface of the deflection element is formed.

As already explained, the first edge of the step can be disposed at the first angular position. The second edge of the step can be disposed at an angular position which is referred to in this document as the fourth angular position. The fourth angular position and the first angular position can be spaced apart from one another by 2° or more, for instance between 2° and 7°, for example by 5°. The surface of the deflection element, in particular the outer edge of the surface of the deflection element facing the inside of the housing wall, can run substantially in a straight line from the second edge at the fourth angular position to the first edge at the first angular position. Thus the inclined step of the deflection element can be provided in a particularly reliable manner.

As a second angular position, the surface of the deflection element can, with increasing angular distance, be displaced from the second angular position to a third angular position increasingly along the longitudinal axis toward the second end face, so that the helical surface is formed. The second angular position can be spaced apart (in the circumferential direction) by between 70° and 110°, for instance by 90°, from the first angular position. The third angular position can be spaced apart (in the circumferential direction) by between 1° and 15° from the first angular position, in particular from the first angular position increased by 360°. Between the second angular position and the third angular position the surface of the deflection element can have a consistent, constant gradient in the circumferential direction. Thus a particularly reliable and efficient deflection of the suction air flow toward the longitudinal axis can be achieved.

Between the third angular position and the fourth angular position the surface of the deflection element can have a smaller gradient along the circumferential direction than between the second angular position and the third angular position. Between the third angular position and the fourth angular position the surface of the deflection element can in particular have substantially no gradient along the circumferential direction. The fourth angular position can be spaced apart from the third angular position by between 5° and 10°. By providing a flattened section of the surface at the second edge of the step the degree of turbulence of the suction air flow at the step of the deflection element can be further reduced.

Between the first angular position and the second angular position the normal vector of the surface of the deflection element can have directional components in the radial direction and in the axial direction in respect of the longitudinal axis (in order to provide the above-mentioned inclined section of the surface of the deflection element).

On the other hand, between the second angular position and the third angular position the normal vector of the surface of the deflection element can have directional components in the circumferential direction and in the axial direction in respect of the longitudinal axis. Furthermore, between the second angular position and the third angular position the normal vector of the surface of the deflection element preferably does not have a directional component in the radial direction. The normal vector of the surface of the deflection element can thus be aligned subsequently to the second angular position in parallel to the longitudinal axis. This is in particular advantageous if the deflection element is additionally configured as an ejection and/or compacting element.

As already explained, the separating unit can include an (annular) ejection and/or compacting element which is configured to be moved inside the collecting container, in order to compact dirt particles disposed in the collecting container and/or to eject them from the collecting container. The ejection and/or compacting element can in particular be configured (starting from the initial position, for example disposed at the first end face) to be moved along the longitudinal axis over the surface of the filter unit (in particular toward the second end face of the collecting container). In the initial position the ejection and/or compacting element is preferably disposed along the radial direction (in respect of the longitudinal axis) flush with the first transverse edge of the inlet opening.

The surface of the annular ejection and/or compacting element has an inner edge facing the surface of the filter unit, which is configured to clean the surface of the filter unit if the annular ejection and/or compacting element is moved along the longitudinal axis.

In a preferred embodiment the ejection and/or compacting element is configured as a deflection element which has a surface which acts on the suction air flow. In other words, the deflection element can be configured as an (annular) ejection and/or compacting element. Thus the direction of flow of the suction air flow can be achieved in a particularly efficient manner.

With the objects of the invention in view, there is concomitantly provided a suction apparatus, in particular a handheld vacuum cleaner, which comprises the separating unit described in this document. The suction apparatus further includes a fan, which is configured to achieve a suction air flow from the suction nozzle of the suction apparatus, through the inlet opening of the separating unit, through the filter unit, and to the fan.

It should be noted that any aspects of the separating unit described in this document and of the suction apparatus described in this document can be combined with one another in many ways. In particular, the features of the claims can be combined with one another in many ways. Furthermore, the features for a separating unit described in this document can be used individually or in combination in the different variants described of the separating unit.

Other features which are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims.

Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a suction apparatus and a separating unit for a suction apparatus having a flap with restricted movement, it is nevertheless not intended to be limited to the details shown, since various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims.

The construction and method of operation of the invention, however, together with additional objects and advantages thereof will be best understood from the following description of specific embodiments when read in connection with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic, perspective view of an exemplary suction apparatus having a suction unit, a suction tube and a nozzle;

FIGS. 2a to 2c are different perspective views of a suction unit and of the separating unit of a suction unit;

FIGS. 3a to 3b are different plan and perspective views of flexible flaps for covering the inlet opening of a separating unit;

FIG. 3c includes a plan view and a side view of a flap;

FIGS. 4a to 4d are different perspective views of the flap resting on a contact surface (of the ejection and/or compacting element) of the separating unit;

FIGS. 5a to 5c are different perspective views of an exemplary ejection and/or compacting element;

FIG. 5d is a graph showing an exemplary progression of the height of the edges of the ejection and/or compacting element along the circumferential direction; and

FIGS. 6a to 6b are perspective views of an exemplary ejection and/or compacting element having a ramp running in the circumferential direction for alignment of the suction air flow.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As explained in the introduction, the present document is concerned with achieving a particularly advantageous alignment of the cyclonic suction air flow inside the separating unit of a suction apparatus, in particular to provide a high suction power even after prolonged use of the suction apparatus without emptying the collecting container of the separating unit.

Referring now to the figures of the drawings in detail and first, particularly, to FIG. 1 thereof, there is seen, in this connection, an exemplary (handheld) vacuum cleaner 100 (as an example of a suction apparatus), which has a suction unit 110 having an electrical energy storage device 111. The suction unit 110 has a (hand) grip 112 which can be gripped with a hand by a user in order to hold the suction unit 110. Due to the fan of the suction unit 110 a suction air flow is achieved through the suction nozzle 114 of the suction unit 110, via the separating unit 113 of the suction unit 110 to the fan. The suction unit 110 can be configured to be used independently as a suction apparatus.

An accessory 120, 130 can be connected to the suction unit 110 via a coupling 121. In the example shown the suction unit 110 is connected to a suction tube 120 via a coupling 121, and is in turn connected to a floor nozzle 130 via a coupling 121.

FIGS. 2a to 2c show different views of a suction unit 110 and of a separating unit 113. The suction air flow 212 caused by the fan 230 is sucked into the separating unit 113 through the suction nozzle 114 of the suction unit 110. The separating unit 113 has an outer housing wall 227 which encloses a filter unit 225. A collecting container is formed by the housing wall 227. The suction air flow 212 is sucked through an (inlet) opening 211 formed on the housing wall 227 into the collecting container enclosed by the housing wall 227. In this case the suction air flow 212 is preferably aligned on entry into the collecting container such that the suction air flow 212 circles around the (circular cylindrical) filter unit 225. The suction air flow 212 is further sucked through the surface of the filter unit 225 toward the central longitudinal axis 220 of the separating unit 113. In this case the dirt from the suction air flow 212 is retained at the surface of the filter unit 225 and remains in the collecting area 226 formed between the filter unit 225 and the housing wall 227.

The (circular cylindrical) collecting container formed by the housing wall 227 extends along the longitudinal axis 220 from a first end face 221 (facing the fan 230) to a second end face 222 (facing away from the fan 230). A lid 224 can be disposed at the second end face 222 and covers the collecting container. The lid 224 can be opened (for example flipped open), so that dirt from the collecting area 226 can be removed from the collecting area 226 of the collecting container via the second end face 222.

An ejection and/or compacting element 240 can be disposed inside the collecting container, and is configured to be moved along the longitudinal axis 220. The ejection and/or compacting element 240 can, as shown in FIG. 2b, be configured as a ring which is disposed around the filter unit 225. The ejection and/or compacting element 240 can extend in the radial direction (in respect of the longitudinal axis 220) from the surface of the filter unit 225 to the inside of the housing wall 227.

The ejection and/or compacting element 240 can be disposed in a basic state on the first end face 221 of the collecting container. Furthermore, the ejection and/or compacting element 240 can be configured to be moved along the longitudinal axis 220 from the first end face 221 to the second end face 222, so that the dirt disposed in the collecting area 226 is pushed toward the second end face 222 by the ejection and/or compacting element 240. Thus it can be made possible to compact the dirt disposed in the collecting area 226 (in the region of the second end face 222), so that the surface of the filter unit 225 is substantially free from dirt, and thus a high suction power is still available. Furthermore, dirt can conveniently be pushed by the ejection and/or compacting element 240 along the longitudinal axis 220 via the second end face 222 (and the open lid 224) out of the collecting container, in order to empty the collecting container.

As shown for example in FIG. 2b, the housing wall 227 of the collecting container has a frame 210 which surrounds the opening 211 to the collecting area 226 of the collecting container. The frame 210 is in this case preferably disposed in the immediate vicinity of the first end face 221 of the collecting container. A flexible flap 200 is disposed inside the frame 210, and is configured such that the flap 200 closes the opening 211 bounded by the frame 210, if no suction air flow 212 is being caused by the fan 230, i.e. if no external forces are acting on the flap 200 in the radial direction into the collecting container. The collecting container can thus be closed by the flexible flap 200, making it reliably possible to prevent dirt from falling out of the collecting container through the opening 211 (for example, if the separating unit 113 is disconnected from the suction unit 110 in order to empty the separating unit 113).

The flap 200 can have a pretension which presses the flap 200 to the frame 210. Thus it is possible to ensure in a particularly reliable manner that the flap 200 is closed if no suction air flow 212 is applied.

The flap 200 preferably is formed of a flexible material (for example a flexible plastic), so that the flap 200 is bent away from the frame 210 toward the filter unit 225 under the effect of an external force (caused for example by the suction air flow 212) acting on the flap 200 and in this case exposes at least part of the opening 211. Thus it is possible to ensure that the suction air flow 212 reaches the collecting container from the outside.

As is apparent from FIG. 2b, the suction unit 110 can be configured such that the suction air flow 212 starting from the suction nozzle 114 initially has a direction of flow which is aligned substantially in parallel to the longitudinal axis 220. At the inlet opening 211 and/or at the frame 210 the direction of flow of the suction air flow 212 is diverted by approx. 90°, so that the suction air flow 212 flows into the collecting container through the inlet opening 211 in the circumferential direction (and thus substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220).

During the suction operation the inlet opening 211 is preferably disposed (in respect of the circumferential direction) on top of the housing wall 227 of the collecting container. This means that gravity acts on the dirt in the suction air flow 212 in order to convey the dirt into the collecting container. On the other hand, because of the alignment of the inlet opening 211 it can happen that (in particular relatively large) dirt particles remain on the outside of the flap 200 and thus increasingly accumulate on the outside of the flap 200, possibly resulting in a blockage of the inlet opening 211.

The dirt on the outside of the flap 200 may fall off if the separating unit 113 is disconnected from the suction unit 110, which may be perceived as inconvenient by a user. Furthermore, the suction operation must be interrupted if the inlet opening 211 is blocked, and the separating unit must be cleaned, which likewise can be perceived as inconvenient.

The flap 200 preferably has one or more predetermined bending points 201, 202 (as shown by way of example in FIGS. 3a to 3b), through the use of which the opening angle of at least a portion of the flap 200 can be increased. A predetermined bending point 201, 202 can in particular be configured as a (film) hinge. The flap 200 can have a main hinge 201, which runs along a (leading) edge of the frame 210, and which allows the entire flap 200 (i.e. the entire surface of the flap 200) to be opened. Furthermore, the flap 200 has one or more (linear) predetermined bending points 202, each of which enables additional opening of a respective portion of the flap 200.

The flap 200 can, as shown by way of example in FIG. 3c, have a total surface 300, for example a rectangular total surface, wherein the total surface 300 completely covers the inlet opening 211. The total surface 300 is delimited by a leading edge 301 and one or more (in particular three) secondary edges 302. The leading edge 301 is typically permanently connected to the frame 210 of the inlet opening 211, so that the flap 200 cannot be moved away from the frame 210 at the leading edge 301. The one or more secondary edges 302 are not connected to the frame 210 of the inlet opening 211, and can be moved away from the frame 210 (by applying a radial force) in order to open the inlet opening 211.

A linear main predetermined bending point 201 (for example in the form of a film hinge) can be disposed at the leading edge 301, which enables a rotational movement of the total surface 300 of the flap 200 about the linear main predetermined bending point 201 (i.e. main bending axis). The angle of rotation made possible by the main predetermined bending point 201 is typically limited (for example to 45° or less, or to 30° or less) so that the total surface 300 of the flap 200 can only be flipped open as far as a particular opening angle by the force of the suction air flow 212. This has the advantage that the direction of flow of the suction air flow 212 through the inlet opening 211 has a particularly large directional component in the circumferential direction and only a relatively small directional component in the radial direction. Thus a robust cyclonic suction air flow 212 can be reliably achieved inside the collecting container of the separating unit 113.

On the other hand, limiting the opening angle of the main predetermined bending point 201 at the leading edge 301 of the flap 200 can result in relatively large dirt particles getting stuck on the outside of the flap 200.

The flap 200 can hence have at least one further (linear) predetermined bending point 202, which enables an additional rotation or bending of a portion 305 of the total surface 300 of the flap 200 about the respective predetermined bending point 202 (i.e. about the respective bending axis). A further predetermined bending point 202 (in particular a further film hinge) thus enables a portion 305 (facing away from the leading edge 301) of the total surface 300 to additionally move away from the frame 210 (in particular under the influence of a relatively large dirt particle). As a result, the inlet opening 211 in the corresponding portion of the inlet opening 211 can be opened further, so that relatively large dirt particles can also enter the collecting container.

The additional bending or turning away of a portion 305 of the total surface 300 of the flap 200 is typically not caused by a suction air flow 212, which only has relatively small dirt particles. Thus it can still be ensured that the direction of flow of the suction air flow 212 has the largest possible directional component in the circumferential direction and only a relatively small directional component in the radial direction. On the other hand, the additional bending or turning away of the portion 305 of the total surface 300 of the flap 200 can be achieved if a relatively large dirt particle carried by the suction air flow 212 acts on this portion 305 of the total surface 300 (and in this case causes a relatively large force in the radial direction).

Due to the additional introduction of one or more film hinges 202, which are disposed transversely, lengthwise, diagonally, on the front and/or on the reverse or else in a variety of combinations on the elastic dam bridge retaining cover 200, it is thus possible for the flap 200 to open further in the case of relatively large particles and/or in the case of a relatively large amount of dirt in the suction air flow 212 at least in one or more portions 305 of the total surface 300 and thus for no dirt to get stuck between the flap 200 and the inlet opening 211 of the collecting container. Furthermore, in this case the wall orientation of the suction air flow 212 (toward the inside of the housing wall 227) remains unchanged for better dust separation. This wall orientation results (at relatively high air volumes) from the main film hinge 201 (which for example runs along the longitudinal axis 220). At relatively low air volumes, one or more subsequent further film hinges 202 running longitudinally can cause (at least one or more portions 305 of) the flap 200 to open. Thus a good wall orientation of the inflowing suction air can be ensured even with a relatively low air volume.

The first end face 221 of the collecting container of the separating unit 113 is typically aligned upward during the suction operation of the suction unit 110, while the second end face 222 of the collecting container is aligned downward. Gravity thus acts on the dirt (for example dust particles) disposed in the collecting area 226 during the suction operation, by which at least some of the dirt is moved toward the second end face 222. As a result, during the suction operation there tends to be less dirt in the vicinity of the first end face 221 than in the vicinity of the second end face 222. Hence in order to maintain the highest possible suction power, it is typically advantageous if the inlet opening 211 for the inlet of the suction air flow 212 into the collecting container is disposed as close as possible to the first end face 221 of the collecting container.

In order to keep the collecting area 226 of the collecting container of the separating unit 113 in the region of the inlet opening 211 as free from dirt as possible, and in order as a result to provide a continuously high suction power, it is advantageous if the suction air flow 212 flows helically around the filter unit 225 and toward the second end face 222. For this purpose the flap 200 at the inlet opening 211 can be configured to align the suction air flow 212 flowing through the inlet opening 211 such that the directional vector of the direction of movement of the suction air flow 212 has a first vector component in the circumferential direction and a second vector component in the longitudinal direction (i.e. along the longitudinal axis 220). Due to the ratio between the first vector component and the second vector component the pitch of the helical direction of flow of the suction air flow 212 can be defined.

The flap 200 can have one or more (linear) predetermined bending points 202, which make it possible to bend or rotate one or more corresponding portions 305 of the total surface 300 of the flap 200 about a respective (bending) axis, wherein the respective (bending) axis runs obliquely with respect to the longitudinal axis 220. The normal vector standing perpendicular to the bending axis of a predetermined bending point 202 can in particular have a directional component which is aligned toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container. This means that the suction air flow 212 can be directed toward the second end face 222 by the portion 305 of the total surface 300 of the flap 200 which is bent about this bending axis, so that as a result a helical suction air flow 212 is achieved in the collecting container of the separating unit 113.

FIG. 2b shows an exemplary flap 200 having a (linear) predetermined bending point 202, by which a bending axis is defined, which is aligned obliquely to the longitudinal axis 220 such that the direction of flow of the suction air flow 212 is aligned (by a particular angle) toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container by the portion 305 of the flap 200 bent around the bending axis. Thus it can be ensured that more dirt accumulates at the second end face 222 of the collecting container, and that the inlet opening 211 remains free for the receipt of additional dirt. This can result in a permanently high suction power.

FIG. 4a shows an exemplary separating unit 113 having a flexible flap 200, which by the action of the suction air flow 212 is pushed away from the frame 210 of the inlet opening 211 into the collecting container. The flexible flap 200 is in this case stored on a support surface 403 inside the collecting container. In particular, the (first) portion of the flap 200 facing the first end face 221 of the collecting container is stored on a support surface 403.

The support surface 403 can be configured such that the flap 200 stored in the support surface 403 has a normal vector (standing perpendicular on the surface 300 of the flap 200) with a directional component along the longitudinal axis 220. This can in particular be achieved by the support surface 403 having a normal vector which has a directional component along the longitudinal axis and a directional component in the radial direction.

As explained above, the suction air flow 212 typically flows in the circumferential direction through the inlet opening 211. In consequence, the flap 200 is bent about the main bending axis (running in parallel to the longitudinal axis 220) of the main bending point 201. Without the provision of a support surface 403, the normal vectors on the bent surface 300 of the flap 200 would only have directional components in the circumferential direction and in the radial direction. Due to the support surface 403, which acts on the (first) portion of the flap 200 facing the first end face 221 of the collecting container, the flap 200 is bent such that the normal vectors of the bent surface 300 of the flap in the stored (first) portion also have a directional component along the longitudinal axis 220, wherein this directional component faces the second end face 222 of the collecting container.

A flap 200 aligned in such a way can cause an impulse to be applied by the flap 200 to the suction air flow 212 flowing in through the inlet opening 211, which turns the direction of flow of the suction air flow 212 (at least slightly) toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container, so that the direction of flow has a directional component along the longitudinal axis 220 (toward the second end face 222) in addition to a directional component in the circumferential direction. Thus a helical suction air flow 212 inside the collecting container can be achieved in an efficient and reliable manner.

The support surface 403 can be provided by the ejection and/or compacting element 240 in a particularly efficient manner. The ejection and/or compacting element 240 can have an outer edge 401 facing the inside of the housing wall 227 and an inner edge 402 facing the surface of the filter unit 225. The support surface 403 can be formed by the surface of the ejection and/or compacting element 240, which faces the second end face 222 of the collecting container and which runs from the inner edge 402 to the outer edge 401 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240. This surface of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 typically serves to push the dirt in the collecting area 226 of the collecting container toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container.

FIG. 4b shows the support surface 403 in a perspective through the inlet opening 211 of the collecting container. FIGS. 4c and 4d show how the flexible flap 200 is supported on the support surface 403 formed by the ejection and/or compacting element 240, and as a result is bent toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container.

FIGS. 5a to 5c show further details of an exemplary (annular) ejection and/or compacting element 240. As is apparent in particular from FIG. 5b, the (annular) surface 503 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 facing the second end face 222 of the collecting container for providing the support surface 403 for the flexible flap 200 can have an alignment 520 which runs obliquely to the longitudinal axis 220, so that the alignment 520 (i.e. the normal vector) of the surface 503 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 does not run in parallel to the longitudinal axis 220, but has a directional component which points outward in the radial direction.

The outer edge 401 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 can have, in the region of the support surface 403, an outer edge distance 511 from a reference plane 510 (which is aligned perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis 220). The reference plane 510 can for example correspond to the reverse (facing the first end face 221) of the ejection and/or compacting element 240. The inner edge 402 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 can have, in the region of the support surface 403, an inner edge distance 512 to the reference plane 510. The inner edge distance 512 is larger than the outer edge distance 511, so that the support surface 403 running (substantially in a straight line) between the inner edge 402 and the outer edge 401 is inclined outward in the radial direction.

As explained below, the surface 503 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 facing the second end face 222 can be used to directly influence the direction of flow of the suction air flow 212. It is hence advantageous to limit the oblique alignment 520 of the surface 503 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 to the portion (in particular to the angular range) of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 which is disposed along the radial direction directly beneath the inlet opening 211. In other portions (in particular in other angular ranges) of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 it may be advantageous to align the surface 503 in parallel to the longitudinal axis 220.

FIG. 5d shows an exemplary distance 511 of the outer edge 401 (dashed) and an exemplary distance 512 of the inner edge 402 (dotted) as a function of the angular position 530 about the longitudinal axis 220. The oblique support surface and/or the inclined section 403 is provided in the angular range between the first angular position 531 and the second angular position 532. In this case the alignment 520 of the surface 503 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 is changed progressively from a maximum angle (for example 20°) relative to the longitudinal axis 220 (at the first angular position 531) to a parallel arrangement to the longitudinal axis 220 (at the second angular position 532). This is advantageous for guidance of the suction air flow 212 caused by the surface 503 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240. As of the second angular position 532 the alignment 520 of the surface 503 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 can be aligned substantially in parallel to the longitudinal axis 220.

As emerges from FIG. 5d, the outer edge 401 between the first angular position 531 and the second angular position 532 has a consistent first distance value 541 to the reference plane 510. On the other hand, the inner edge distance 512 of the inner edge 402 starting from a relatively high second distance value 542 (at the first angular position 531) is reduced progressively (where appropriate linearly) to the first distance value 541 (at the second angular position 532).

Due to the obliquely inclined flap 200 a spiral suction air flow 212 can be achieved, which is aligned toward the second end face of the collecting container. As a result, the volume flow of the suction air flow 212, which acts on the reverse of the flap 200, and as a result causes a closing force to close the inlet opening 211, can be reduced. In consequence, the effective degree of opening of the inlet opening 211 can be increased, as a result of which the flow resistance of the inlet opening 211 is reduced, and as a result of which the suction power is increased.

Due to the spiral suction air flow 212 it is further possible to cause dirt to be conveyed toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container, and thus it does not reach the first end face 221 behind the ejection and/or compacting element 240.

Due to the oblique support of the flap 200 in a support surface 403 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 it is also possible for the ejection and/or compacting element 240 to be actuated during the suction operation of the suction unit 110, in order to compact dirt (without having to switch the fan 230 off). Thus the convenience of the suction unit 110 can be further increased.

Thus an improved separation power is achieved with a centrifugal separator 113. This can in particular be achieved in that after the air current 212 has passed the inlet opening 211 a spiral air current is generated around the filter.

In a centrifugal separator 113 for a vacuum cleaner 100, in which the inlet 211 is covered by a movable (preferably one-piece) elastic flap 200, the flap 200 can have two (preferably contiguous) portions, an upper (in respect of the longitudinal axis 220) (i.e. first) and a lower (i.e. second) portion. The flap 200 is opened by the sucked-in air 212. In this case, the upper portion or the upper edge of the flap 200 touches a barrier (for example an incline on the wiper ring, i.e. on the ejection and/or compacting element 240). As a result, the flap 200 is opened asymmetrically in respect of the longitudinal axis 220 (as seen through the air flow 212) (not a complete cross-sectional opening), so that the air flow 212 experiences at least a spiral movement downward (toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container) due to the inclined position of the flap 200 in the upper portion of the flap 200 (which faces the first end face 221). In other words, not only is a spiral air flow created perpendicularly around the longitudinal axis 220, but additionally a spiral angular momentum or impulse in the direction of the air flow. This results not only in an air flow around the internal filter unit 225, but also an angular momentum and/or an impulse in the direction of the suction flow. As a result, dirt particles can better reach the inside of the housing wall 227 of the collecting container, so that the degree of separation is improved.

Thus a centrifugal separator (i.e. a separating unit) 113 with an inlet 211 is described, which is covered by a movable elastic flap 200. The centrifugal separator 113 further has a barrier (for example in the form of a support surface 403), which restricts the opening movement of the flap 200 at the upper or first edge (facing the first end face 221 of the collecting container).

The flap 200 can be disposed in a resting position between the inlet opening 211 and the centrifugal separator 113. The inlet opening 211 and the flap 200 can each be configured to be approximately rectangular. The barrier can be disposed in or on the centrifugal separator 113. The barrier can in particular be formed by the wiper ring, i.e. by the ejection and/or compacting element 240 (where appropriate with an incline at the inflow area).

As explained in connection with FIG. 5d, the surface 503 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 can have an inclined section 403, in which the normal vector of the surface 503 runs obliquely to the longitudinal axis 220. The inclined section 403 can serve at least in part as a support surface for the flap 200. The ejection and/or compacting element 240 can generally be regarded as a deflection element which is configured to divert at least partially the suction air flow 212 entering the collecting container. It may be noted that the aspects described in this document in respect of an ejection and/or compacting element 240 can be applied generally to a deflection element.

The normal vector of the inclined section 403 of the surface 503 can have a directional component in the radial direction outward (out of the collecting container). Furthermore, the normal vector of the inclined section 403 of the surface 503 can have a directional component in the axial direction along the longitudinal axis 220 toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container.

The angle between the longitudinal axis 220 and the normal vector of the inclined section 403 can, starting from a maximum value (for example 20°) at the first angular position 531, be reduced progressively to 0° at the second angular position 532. The second angular position 532 can be spaced apart from the first angular position 531 by approx. 90° along the circumferential direction. A helical suction air flow 212 inside the collecting container can be achieved in a particularly reliable and efficient manner by such a progression of the surface 503.

As is in particular apparent from FIG. 5d, the surface 503 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240 (generally of the deflection element) can be configured such that the distance value of the inner edge distance 512 and of the outer edge distance 511 (i.e. of the distance of the surface 503 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240) from the reference plane 510 rises with increasing angular position 530, so that in the circumferential direction a spiral ramp is provided. In the example illustrated in FIG. 5d the distance 511, 512 of the surface 503 rises progressively as from the second angular position 532 to the third angular position 533 starting from the first distance value 541 (for example with a constant gradient in the circumferential direction) to a third distance value 543. The third distance value 543 can for example be larger than the first distance value 541 by up to 20% of the total length of the collecting container (along the longitudinal axis 220). The third angular position 533 can for example correspond to an angle of between 340° and 360°. By providing a ramped surface 503 the direction of flow of the suction air flow 212 entering the collecting container can be changed in a particularly reliable manner in order to achieve a helical or spiral suction air flow 212.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 5d the surface 503 optionally constantly has the third distance value 543 between the third angular position 533 and a fourth angular position 534. The fourth angular position 534 can for example be spaced apart by between 2° and 10° from the third angular position 533. By providing such a flattened region of the surface 503 the gradient of the ramped surface 503 and the height (along the longitudinal axis 220) of the step 500 formed as a result can be adjusted in a flexible manner in order to achieve an optimized change in the direction of flow of the suction air flow 212.

Between the fourth angular position 534 and the first angular position 531 the distance value of the distance 511, 512 of the surface 503 is reduced relatively abruptly to the first distance value 541 (at the outer edge 401) or to the second distance value 542 (at the inner edge 402), so that a step 500 is created. Between the fourth angular position 534 and the first angular position 531 there is preferably an angular distance of 1° or more, in particular of 3° or more, so that

• • the step 500 has a negative gradient which is less than infinity; and/or
  • the normal vector of the surface 503 in the region of the step 500 has a particular angle (for example of 1° or more, in particular of 3° or more) compared to the transverse plane of the collecting container standing perpendicular on the longitudinal axis 220; and/or
  • the surface 503 in the region of the step 500 has a particular angle (for example of 1° or more, in particular of 3° or more) compared to the longitudinal axis 220.

The first (lower) edge 501 of the step 500 can be disposed at the first angular position 531, and the second (upper) edge 502 of the step 500 can be disposed at the fourth angular position 534. The surface 503 can run substantially in a straight line between the first edge 501 and the second edge 502. In particular, the inner edge 402 and the outer edge 401 can each run substantially in a straight line between the first edge 501 and the second edge 502.

Thus an ejection and/or compacting element 240 (generally a deflection element) having a ramped and/or spiral surface 503 can be provided. In this case the step 500 of the surface 503 can run slightly obliquely. In this way the suction air flow 212 can be prevented from stalling at the second (upper) edge 502 of the step 500, in order to achieve a high separation quality of the separating unit 113.

As already explained, the separating unit 113 can thus have a wiper ring (i.e. an ejection and/or compacting element 240) which in the region of the inlet opening 211 of the collecting container has a particular gradient (for example approx. 20°) compared to a reference plane 510 (wherein the reference plane 510 is disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220). The gradient of the surface 503 compared to the reference plane 510 can be present in the radial direction. The surface 503 of the wiper ring (i.e. of the ejection and/or compacting element 240) can thus have an inclined section 403.

The first edge 501 of the ejection ring (i.e. of the ejection and/or compacting element 240) can be disposed flush with the transverse edge of the inlet opening 211 (facing the first end face 221 of the collecting container). Furthermore, the inclined section 403 starting from the first edge 501 of the ejection ring (i.e. of the ejection and/or compacting element 240) can extend in the circumferential direction over a particular angular range. Due to this oblique surface 403 the inflowing air 212 experiences a deflection toward the second end face 222, as a result of which a monocyclone directed toward the second end face 222 arises inside the collecting container.

The wiper ring (i.e. the ejection and/or compacting element 240) is preferably formed so that the surface 503 of the wiper ring (i.e. of the ejection and/or compacting element 240) has the inclination only in the region of the inlet opening 211 (for example limited to an angular range of 90°). Apart from the inclined section 403 the surface 503 of the wiper ring (i.e. of the ejection and/or compacting element 240) can run inside the transverse plane of the collecting container (which is disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220).

Due to the inclined section 403 and the resultant monocyclone, directed toward the second end face 222, the suction air flow 212 can be selectively guided toward the second end face 222, resulting in better dirt separation and less turbulence of the suction air flow 212. Furthermore, the airflow toward the first end face 221 is reduced, so that it is possible to prevent dirt particles from being deposited on the reverse of the ejection ring (i.e. of the ejection and/or compacting element 240).

Due to the inclined section 403, when using an optional flap 200 at the inlet opening 211 it is possible to ensure that the flap 200 closes reliably.

As already explained, the surface 503 of the wiper ring and/or ejection ring (i.e. of the ejection and/or compacting element 240) preferably does not have an inclined position over the whole circumference, but only inside the inclined section 403. This means that the wiper ring and/or ejection ring (i.e. the ejection and/or compacting element 240) continues to have the greatest possible stroke along the longitudinal axis 220 in order to eject dirt particles from the collecting container.

Thus, in addition to helical air guidance, an angular momentum or impulse can be created in order to achieve helical air guidance inside the collecting container. For this purpose, the spiral surface 503 at the wiper ring (i.e. at the ejection and/or compacting element 240) in the inflow region of the collecting container (i.e. at the inlet opening) can be inclined by approx. 20° (radially outward) compared to the transverse plane (disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220). The inclination preferably reduces again to 0°, for example after a quarter circle. The inner delimiting line (i.e. the inner edge 512) of the air guidance surface (i.e. of the surface 503) is disposed elevated (in respect of the longitudinal axis 220) compared to the outer delimiting line (i.e. compared to the outer edge 401).

The suction air 212 can thus be selectively guided to the spiral surface 503, wherein additionally an angular momentum or impulse onto the suction air 212 is generated along the airflow. As a result, an improved separation of dust particles by the separating unit 113 can be achieved.

In one example the inclination can extend over the whole spiral surface 503. In other words, the inclined section 403 can extend over the whole surface 503 and over the whole angular range (of 360°), in order further to increase the impulse onto the suction air flow 212 in the direction of the second end face 222 of the collecting container.

FIGS. 6a and 6b show by way of example the step 500 of the ramped surface 503 of the ejection and/or compacting element 240. As illustrated in FIG. 6b, the surface 503 at the step 500 preferably has a particular angle 621 (for example of between 1° and 7°, for instance 5°) compared to the longitudinal axis 220. Thus turbulence of the suction air flow 212 at the second (upper) edge 502 of the step 500 can be prevented in a reliable manner, as a result of which the separation power of the separating unit 113 is further increased.

The ejection ring (i.e. the ejection and/or compacting element 240) can thus be provided with a ramp in the circumferential direction, by which the incoming dust and/or dirt is conveyed toward the second end face 222 of the collecting container. Thus the efficiency of the suction apparatus 100 and the dust loading of the collecting container of the separating unit 113 can be positively influenced.

The step 500 on the ejection ring (i.e. of the ejection and/or compacting element 240) following the ramp preferably has an inclined wall (in respect of the longitudinal axis 220), wherein the wall of the step 500 is preferably disposed in the circumferential direction directly in front of or directly at (the first transverse edge of) the inlet opening 211 of the collecting container. For example, an inclined position of the wall (of the step 500) of approx. 95° relative to the transverse plane (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220) can be achieved. An inclined wall can prevent the suction air flow 212 from stalling in this region and as a result causing turbulence and thus negative influences on the efficiency and dust loading of the separating unit 113.

The wall (of step 500) can be rounded at the first (lower) edge 501 and/or at the second (upper) edge 502 (with a particular radius). Thus turbulence of the suction air flow 212 can be prevented in a particularly reliable manner.

Thus a movable wiper ring and/or ejection ring (i.e. an ejection and/or compacting element 240) for a cyclone filter (i.e. for a filter unit 225) in a vacuum cleaner 100 is described, wherein the wiper ring and/or ejection ring (i.e. the ejection and/or compacting element 240) has a spirally ascending air guidance surface (i.e. surface 503). At the end of the gradient, at the point where the spiral meets itself again offset by the gradient, an edge surface (i.e. a step 500) is formed, this edge surface not being at right angles to the cross-sectional area of the cyclone filter (i.e. of the filter unit 225), but being inclined at between 93° and 98°, preferably at 95°. In this way, stalls in flow at the change in height (i.e. at the step 500) can be reliably prevented. Thus the efficiency of a vacuum cleaner 100, in particular in respect of the dust separation, can be improved. Furthermore, the dust loading of the collecting container of the vacuum cleaner 100 can be improved in this way.

The step 500 (i.e. the oblique wall) preferably has rounding radii at the respective surface ends of the oblique wall (i.e. at the first edge 501 and/or at the second edge 502 of the step 500).

The surface normal (i.e. the normal vector) of the oblique wall (i.e. of the step 500) can be aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 220 (in particular in parallel to a radial direction). Alternatively, the surface normal of the wall can be aligned at an angle of between 0° and +−30° to the perpendicular of the longitudinal axis 220.

At the start and/or at the end of the oblique wall (i.e. of the step 500) the air guidance surface, i.e. the surface 503, can have a plane without gradient (in the circumferential direction). Alternatively or additionally, the air guidance surface (i.e. the surface 503) can have a continuous or discontinuous progression of the gradient of the spiral or helix.

The inner edge 402 of the air guidance surface (i.e. of the surface 503) preferably has a relatively small distance (for example of approx. 1 mm) from the surface of the filter unit 225.

Due to the measures described in this document an improvement in the efficiency, in particular of dust separation, of a suction unit 110 can be achieved. Furthermore, an optimization of the dust loading of the collecting container of a separating unit 113 can be achieved.

The present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown. In particular, it should be noted that the description and the figures are only meant to illustrate the principle of a separating unit 113 and/or a suction apparatus 100.

The following is a summary list of reference numerals and the corresponding structure used in the above description of the invention:

• • 100 Suction apparatus (suction wiper)
  • 110 Suction unit
  • 111 Electrical energy storage device
  • 112 Grip
  • 113 Separating unit
  • 114 Suction nozzle
  • 120 Accessory (suction tube)
  • 121 Coupling
  • 130
  • 130 Nozzle
  • 200 (Dam bridge retaining) flap
  • 201 Main bending point (film hinge)
  • 202 Further bending point (film hinge)
  • 210 Frame
  • 211 Inlet opening (collecting container)
  • 212 Suction air
  • 220 Longitudinal axis
  • 221 First end face (collecting container)
  • 222 Second end face (collecting container)
  • 224 Lid
  • 225 Filter unit
  • 226 Collecting area
  • 227 Housing wall
  • 230 Fan
  • 240 Deflection element/ejection and/or compacting element
  • 300 Total surface (flap)
  • 301 Leading edge
  • 302 (Free) edge
  • 305 Portion (of the total surface)
  • 401 Outer edge
  • 402 Inner edge
  • 403 Inclined section/support surface
  • 500 Step
  • 501 First (lower) edge
  • 502 Second (upper) edge
  • 503 Surface of the deflection element or of the ejection and/or compacting element
  • 510 Reference plane (reverse)
  • 511 Outer edge distance
  • 512 Inner edge distance
  • 520 Normal vector or orientation (surface)
  • 530 Angular position
  • 531, 532, 533, 534 Different angular positions
  • 541, 542, 543 Distance values
  • 621 Angle