CLEANER

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present application claims priority to and incorporates by reference the entire contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-154326 filed in Japan on Sep. 6, 2024.

TECHNICAL FIELD

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

BACKGROUND

A cleaner disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 7514668 is known in the technical field related to the cleaner.

When a size of a cleaner increases, a user of the cleaner may have difficulty in handling the cleaner.

One non-limiting object of the present teachings is to suppress an increase in size of a cleaner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect of the present teachings, a cleaner includes: a main body housing having a suction port; a motor assembly that is housed in the main body housing and includes a fan motor that rotates about a rotation axis to generate a suction force at the suction port; and one or more first flow paths through which air discharged from the motor assembly flows. The one or more first flow paths are provided between the motor assembly and the main body housing in a radial direction of the rotation axis only in a part in a circumferential direction of the rotation axis and extend in a front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis.

According to the techniques disclosed in the present teachings, an increase in size of a cleaner is suppressed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view of a cleaner and an extension pipe according to an embodiment as viewed from the upper right front;

FIG. 2 is a view of the cleaner according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front;

FIG. 3 is a view of the cleaner according to the embodiment as viewed from the right;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cleaner according to the embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the cleaner according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front;

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the cleaner according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front;

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the cleaner according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cleaner according to the embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a view of a part of the cleaner according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front;

FIG. 10 is a view of a motor assembly, a first elastic member, second elastic members, and third elastic members according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front;

FIG. 11 is a view of the motor assembly, the first elastic member, the second elastic members, and the third elastic members according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the first elastic member according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front;

FIG. 13 is a view of a part of the cleaner according to the embodiment as viewed from the right;

FIG. 14 is a view of a part of the cleaner according to the embodiment as viewed from the right rear; and

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cleaner according to another embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In one or more embodiments, a cleaner may include: a main body housing having a suction port; a motor assembly that is housed in the main body housing and includes a fan motor that rotates about a rotation axis to generate a suction force at the suction port; and one or more first flow paths through which air discharged from the motor assembly flows. The one or more first flow paths are provided between the motor assembly and the main body housing in a radial direction of the rotation axis only in a part in a circumferential direction of the rotation axis and extend in a front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis.

In the above configuration, since one or more first flow paths are provided only in a part in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis, an increase in size of the cleaner is suppressed. In particular, an increase in size of the main body housing in the radial direction is suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, the first flow path(s) may be provided above and/or below the motor assembly.

In the above configuration, since the first flow path(s) is (are) provided above and/or below the motor assembly, an increase in size of the main body housing in a left-right direction is suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, the cleaner may include: an inlet pipe portion through which air sent to the suction port flows; and a dust cup disposed forward of the suction port. The inlet pipe portion and the dust cup may be disposed in an up-down direction. The first flow paths may be provided above and below the motor assembly, respectively.

In the above configuration, since the inlet pipe portion and the dust cup are disposed in the up-down direction, an up-down dimension of the cleaner increases in the inlet pipe portion and the dust cup. A dead space is formed at the rear of the inlet pipe portion and the dust cup. Since the first flow paths are provided above and below the motor assembly, respectively, the first flow paths are disposed in the dead space at the rear of the inlet pipe portion and the dust cup. Since the dead space is effectively utilized, an increase in size of the main body housing in the left-right direction is suppressed. In addition, since the air discharged from the motor assembly flows through each of the first flow path provided above the motor assembly and the first flow path provided below the motor assembly, a decrease in air flow is suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, the main body housing may have a first rib protruding from an inner surface of the main body housing and facing a part of an outer surface of the motor assembly, and a second rib protruding from the inner surface of the main body housing and disposed outside the first rib in the radial direction. The first flow path may be provided between the first rib and the second rib in the radial direction.

In the above configuration, the first flow path can be formed by the first rib and the second rib of the main body housing.

In one or more embodiments, the main body housing may have a first rib protruding from the inner surface of the main body housing and facing a part of the outer surface of the motor assembly. The first flow path may be provided outside the first rib in the radial direction. The cleaner may include a second flow path provided between the motor assembly and the first rib in the radial direction of the rotation axis, extending in the front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis, and through which air discharged from the motor assembly flows. The air discharged from the motor assembly may flow forward through the second flow path, pass through a front end portion of the first rib, and then flow rearward through the first flow path.

In the above configuration, the air discharged from the motor assembly flows forward through the second flow path and then flows rearward through the first flow path. Since the flow path of the air discharged from the motor assembly becomes long, generation of noise from the cleaner is suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, the cleaner may include a first sound absorbing member disposed in the first flow path.

In the above configuration, the first sound absorbing member suppresses generation of noise from the cleaner.

In one or more embodiments, the first sound absorbing member may have first circulation holes penetrating a front surface and a rear surface of the first sound absorbing member.

In the above configuration, air can smoothly flow rearward through the first circulation holes.

In one or more embodiments, the first circulation holes may be provided at a plurality of positions different from each other in each of the up-down direction and the left-right direction of the first sound absorbing member.

In the above configuration, air can smoothly flow rearward through each of the circulation holes.

In one or more embodiments, a front-rear dimension of the first sound absorbing member may be larger than an up-down dimension and a left-right dimension of the first sound absorbing member.

In the above configuration, since lengths of the first circulation holes in the front-rear direction becomes long, generation of noise caused by air flowing through the first circulation holes is suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, the main body housing may have an exhaust port for discharging air that has flowed through the first flow path. The cleaner may include a second sound absorbing member disposed at a position facing the exhaust port inside the main body housing. The second sound absorbing member may have second circulation holes penetrating a front surface and a back surface of the second sound absorbing member. A size of the first circulation hole and a size of the second circulation hole may be different.

In the above configuration, the second sound absorbing member suppresses generation of noise from the cleaner.

In one or more embodiments, the cleaner may include a first elastic member that is in contact with each of the front end portion of the motor assembly and the main body housing.

In the above configuration, the first elastic member suppresses transmission of vibration of the motor assembly to the main body housing. Therefore, generation of noise from the cleaner is suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, the main body housing may have a partition wall portion, which is disposed forward of the motor assembly and in which the suction port is formed. At least a part of the first elastic member may be in contact with an inner surface of the suction port. At least a part of the first elastic member may be in contact with a rear surface of the partition wall portion.

In the above configuration, since at least a part of the first elastic member is in contact with the inner surface of the suction port, the motor assembly is restricted from moving in the radial direction. Since at least a part of the first elastic member is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall portion, the motor assembly is restricted from moving in the front direction.

In one or more embodiments, the first elastic member may include an annular large diameter portion in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall portion, and an annular small diameter portion protruding forward from the large diameter portion and in contact with the inner surface of the suction port.

In the above configuration, since the small diameter portion of the first elastic member is in contact with the inner surface of the suction port, the motor assembly is restricted from moving in the radial direction. Since the large diameter portion of the first elastic member is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall portion, the motor assembly is restricted from moving in the front direction.

In one or more embodiments, the first elastic member may include a metal mesh portion, a synthetic resin portion to which the metal mesh portion is fixed, and a rubber portion to which the synthetic resin portion is fixed.

In the above configuration, since the metal mesh portion is disposed in a ventilation port of the first elastic member, dust is suppressed from passing through the ventilation port. The synthetic resin portion secures rigidity of the first elastic member. The rubber portion suppresses transmission of vibration of the motor assembly to the main body housing, so that generation of noise from the cleaner is suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, the cleaner may include a second elastic member disposed rearward of the first elastic member and in contact with each of the motor assembly and the main body housing.

In the above configuration, the second elastic member suppresses transmission of vibration of the motor assembly to the main body housing. Therefore, generation of noise from the cleaner is suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, the second elastic member may be disposed so as to be in contact with a position where vibration is the smallest in the motor assembly when the fan motor rotates.

In the above configuration, since the second elastic member is in contact with the position where the vibration is the smallest in the motor assembly, the vibration of the motor assembly is effectively suppressed from being transmitted to the main body housing. Therefore, generation of noise from the cleaner is effectively suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, a radially inner end portion of the second elastic member may be in contact with the motor assembly and a radially outer end portion of the second elastic member may be supported by the main body housing.

In the above configuration, the motor assembly is radially supported by the main body housing via the second elastic member.

In one or more embodiments, the second elastic members may be in contact with an outer surface of the motor assembly 7 at four locations in an intermediate portion of the motor assembly in the front-rear direction.

In the above configuration, the motor assembly is radially supported at four locations by the main body housing. In the above configuration, the motor assembly is radially supported via four second elastic members.

In one or more embodiments, the second elastic member may include: a body portion supported by the main body housing; and a support portion having a curved surface in contact with the motor assembly.

In the above configuration, since a contact area between the support portion and the motor assembly is small, transmission of vibration of the motor assembly to the main body housing is effectively suppressed. Therefore, generation of noise from the cleaner is effectively suppressed.

Hereinafter, an embodiment according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiment. The components of the embodiment described below can be appropriately combined. In addition, some components may not be used.

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

Outline of Cleaner

FIG. 1 is a view of the cleaner 1 and an extension pipe 101 according to an embodiment as viewed from the upper right front. FIG. 2 is a view of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front. FIG. 3 is a view of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment as viewed from the right. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front. FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front. FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 corresponds to a cross-sectional arrow view taken along line A-A of FIG. 3.

In the embodiment, the cleaner 1 is a cyclone cleaner that separates foreign substances from air using a centrifugal force. The cleaner 1 is a handy cleaner capable of performing cleaning work in a state of being held by a user of the cleaner 1.

The cleaner 1 includes a main body assembly 2, a filter assembly 3, and a dust collecting assembly 4. A rear end portion of the extension pipe 101 is connected to the main body assembly 2. A suction nozzle 100 is connected to a front end portion of the extension pipe 101. The suction nozzle 100 has a suction port. A rotary brush 102 is disposed at the suction port of the suction nozzle 100. The rotary brush 102 is rotated by a rotational force generated by an electric motor (not illustrated) disposed in the suction nozzle 100.

The main body assembly 2 includes a main body housing 5, a battery mounting portion 6, a motor assembly 7, an operation panel 9, and a light 10.

The main body housing 5 houses the motor assembly 7. The main body housing 5 is formed of synthetic resin. The main body housing 5 includes a pair of half-split housings. The main body housing 5 includes a left housing 5L and a right housing 5R. The right housing 5R is disposed on the right side of the left housing 5L. The left housing 5L and the right housing 5R are fixed by a plurality of screws 5S.

The main body housing 5 includes a body portion 11, a partition wall portion 16, a grip portion 12, a battery holding portion 13, and an inlet pipe portion 34.

The body portion 11 houses the motor assembly 7. The body portion 11 has a substantially tubular shape. The partition wall portion 16 is disposed at a front portion of the body portion 11. The partition wall portion 16 has a plate shape. The partition wall portion 16 is disposed so as to cover an opening at the front portion of the body portion 11. The body portion 11 and the partition wall portion 16 are integrated. A suction port 14 is provided in the partition wall portion 16. The suction port 14 is provided at the center of the partition wall portion 16. The body portion 11 is provided with exhaust ports 15. The exhaust ports 15 are respectively provided in the left portion and the right portion of the body portion 11.

A user of the cleaner 1 grips the grip portion 12. The grip portion 12 is provided so as to extend rearward from an upper portion of the body portion 11.

The battery holding portion 13 holds a battery pack 17 via the battery mounting portion 6. The battery holding portion 13 is coupled to a rear portion of the body portion 11 and a lower end portion of a rear portion of the grip portion 12.

The battery mounting portion 6 is provided at a lower portion of the battery holding portion 13. The battery pack 17 is mounted on the battery mounting portion 6. The battery pack 17 is attachable to and detachable from the battery mounting portion 6.

The battery pack 17 functions as a power source of the cleaner 1. The battery pack 17 supplies electric power to the cleaner 1 in a state of being attached to the battery mounting portion 6. The battery pack 17 is a general-purpose battery that can be used as a power source of various electric devices. The battery pack 17 can be used as a power source of a power tool. The battery pack 17 can be used as a power source of an electric device other than the power tool. The battery pack 17 can be used as a power source of a cleaner different from the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment. The battery pack 17 includes a lithium ion battery. The battery pack 17 is a rechargeable battery that can be charged. The battery mounting portion 6 has a structure equivalent to that of a battery mounting portion of the power tool.

The user of the cleaner 1 can perform work of mounting the battery pack 17 on the battery mounting portion 6 and work of removing the battery pack 17 from the battery mounting portion 6. The battery mounting portion 6 includes a guide member that guides the battery pack 17 and a main body terminal coupled to a battery terminal provided in the battery pack 17. The user can mount the battery pack 17 on the battery mounting portion 6 by inserting the battery pack 17 into the battery mounting portion 6 from the rear. The battery pack 17 is inserted into the battery mounting portion 6 while being guided by the guide member. When the battery pack 17 is mounted on the battery mounting portion 6, the battery terminal of the battery pack 17 and the main body terminal of the battery mounting portion 6 are electrically connected. The user of the cleaner 1 can remove the battery pack 17 from the battery mounting portion 6 by moving the battery pack 17 rearward.

The motor assembly 7 generates a suction force at the suction port 14 of the main body housing 5. The motor assembly 7 is housed in the body portion 11 of the main body housing 5. The motor assembly 7 includes a fan motor 8 and a control board 20. A rotor and a fan of the fan motor 8 are rotatable about a rotation axis AX. The rotation axis AX extends in a front-rear direction. The motor of the fan motor 8 generates power for rotating the fan. When the fan motor 8 rotates, a suction force is generated at the suction port 14. The control board 20 outputs a control signal for controlling the fan motor 8. The control board 20 includes, for example, a field effect transistor (FET).

The operation panel 9 is operated by the user of the cleaner 1. The operation panel 9 is disposed on the grip portion 12. The user of the cleaner 1 can operate the operation panel 9 in a state of gripping the grip portion 12. In the embodiment, the operation panel 9 includes a mode switching button 9A, a drive button 9B, and a display unit 9C. The mode switching button 9A and the drive button 9B are operated by the user. The user can operate the mode switching button 9A and the drive button 9B in a state of gripping the grip portion 12.

When the drive button 9B is operated while the fan motor 8 is stopped, the fan motor 8 starts to be driven. When the mode switching button 9A is operated while the fan motor 8 is driven, a rotational speed of the fan motor 8 is adjusted in four stages. When the mode switching button 9A is operated once while the fan motor 8 is driven, the rotational speed of the fan motor 8 is changed from a first rotational speed to a second rotational speed. When the mode switching button 9A is further operated once, the rotational speed of the fan motor 8 is changed from the second rotational speed to a third rotational speed. When the mode switching button 9A is still further operated once, the rotational speed of the fan motor 8 is changed from the third rotational speed to a fourth rotational speed. When the mode switching button 9A is still further operated once, the rotational speed of the fan motor 8 returns to the first rotational speed. The suction force at the suction port 14 is changed by changing the rotational speed of the fan motor 8. When the drive button 9B is operated while the fan motor 8 is driven, the fan motor 8 stops.

The display unit 9C includes four light emitting units. As the light emitting unit, a light emitting diode (LED) is exemplified. When the fan motor 8 is driven at the first rotational speed, one light emitting unit is turned on. When the fan motor 8 is driven at the second rotational speed, two light emitting units are turned on. When the fan motor 8 is driven at the third rotational speed, three light emitting units are turned on. When the fan motor 8 is driven at the fourth rotational speed, four light emitting units are turned on. When the fan motor 8 is stopped, the four light emitting units are turned off.

The light 10 is disposed at the front portion of grip portion 12. The light 10 illuminates the front of the cleaner 1. The light 10 includes a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode (LED).

The rear end portion of the extension pipe 101 is inserted into an opening at a front end portion of the inlet pipe portion 34. A lock mechanism 36 is provided at the front end portion of the inlet pipe portion 34. The lock mechanism 36 fixes the inlet pipe portion 34 and the extension pipe 101 to each other. When the fixation by the lock mechanism 36 is released, the extension pipe 101 is removed from the inlet pipe portion 34. The extension pipe 101 is attachable to and detachable from the inlet pipe portion 34.

By inserting the rear end portion of the extension pipe 101 into the opening at the front end portion of the inlet pipe portion 34, a power supply terminal 34C of the inlet pipe portion 34 and a power receiving terminal of the extension pipe 101 are connected. By connecting the power supply terminal 34C of the inlet pipe portion 34 and the power receiving terminal of the extension pipe 101, the electric power from the battery pack 17 is supplied to the electric motor disposed in the suction nozzle 100 via the power supply terminal 34C of the inlet pipe portion 34 and the power receiving terminal of the extension pipe 101. When the drive button 9B is operated to rotate the fan motor 8, the electric motor disposed in the suction nozzle 100 rotates in synchronization with the fan motor 8. When the electric motor disposed in the suction nozzle 100 rotates, the rotary brush 102 rotates.

As shown in FIG. 4, at least a part of the filter assembly 3 is disposed forward of the main body assembly 2. The filter assembly 3 is disposed to face the suction port 14 of the main body assembly 2. The filter assembly 3 has a support frame 18 and a filter 19. The support frame 18 supports the filter 19. The filter 19 is disposed forward of the suction port 14 of the main body assembly 2. The filter 19 has air permeability. The filter 19 collects foreign substances from air passing through the filter 19. Air flows into the filter 19 from a front portion of the filter 19. The foreign substances contained in the air are collected by the filter 19. The air that has passed through the filter 19 flows out from an opening at the rear portion of the filter 19 and then flows into the suction port 14.

At least a part of the dust collecting assembly 4 is disposed forward of the filter assembly 3. The dust collecting assembly 4 includes a cyclone housing 30 and a cyclone dust collection unit 40. The cyclone dust collection unit 40 includes a filter unit 50 and a dust cup 42.

The cyclone housing 30 is coupled to the body portion 11. The filter assembly 3 is housed in a rear portion of the cyclone housing 30. A lock mechanism 37 is provided at a rear end portion of the cyclone housing 30. As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7, a recessed portion 11R is provided at a front end portion of the body portion 11. The lock mechanism 37 is provided at a lower portion of the rear end portion of the cyclone housing 30. The recessed portion 11R is provided at a lower portion of the front end portion of the body portion 11. The lock mechanism 37 includes a hook portion hooked on the recessed portion 11R and an operation lever that moves the hook portion. The hook portion of the lock mechanism 37 is hooked on the recessed portion 11R, whereby the body portion 11 and the cyclone housing 30 are fixed to each other. When the operation lever is operated and the fixation by the lock mechanism 37 is released, the cyclone housing 30 is removed from the body portion 11. The cyclone housing 30 is attachable to and detachable from the body portion 11.

The dust cup 42 is connected to the cyclone housing 30. Lock mechanisms 44 are provided at a rear end portion of the dust cup 42. As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, recessed portions 30R are provided at a front end portion of the cyclone housing 30. The lock mechanisms 44 are provided on left and right portions of the rear end portion of the dust cup 42, respectively. The recessed portions 30R are provided in left and right portions of the front end portion of the cyclone housing 30, respectively. The lock mechanism 44s each include a hook portion hooked on the corresponding recessed portion 30R and an operation lever that moves the corresponding hook portion. When the hook portion of the lock mechanism 44 is hooked on the corresponding recessed portion 30R, the cyclone housing 30 and the dust cup 42 are fixed. When the operation lever is operated and the fixation by the lock mechanism 44 is released, the dust cup 42 is removed from the cyclone housing 30. The dust cup 42 is attachable to and detachable from the cyclone housing 30.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the cyclone housing 30 can be removed from the body portion 11 in a state where the cyclone housing 30 and the dust cup 42 are fixed. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the dust cup 42 can be removed from the cyclone housing 30 in a state where the body portion 11 and the cyclone housing 30 are fixed. As shown in FIG. 7, the dust cup 42 can be removed from the cyclone housing 30 in a state where the cyclone housing 30 is removed from the body portion 11.

The cyclone housing 30 is disposed in parallel with the inlet pipe portion 34 of the main body housing 5. The dust cup 42 is disposed in parallel with the inlet pipe portion 34 of the main body housing 5. The cyclone housing 30 is disposed forward of the suction port 14 of the main body housing 5. The dust cup 42 is disposed forward of the suction port 14 of the main body housing 5 and the cyclone housing 30. The inlet pipe portion 34 and the cyclone housing 30 are disposed in an up-down direction. The inlet pipe portion 34 and the dust cup 42 are disposed in the up-down direction. The cyclone housing 30 and the dust cup 42 are disposed below the inlet pipe portion 34.

The air sent to the suction port 14 of the main body housing 5 flows through an internal flow path of the inlet pipe portion 34. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, an outflow port 33 is provided at the rear portion of the inlet pipe portion 34. The outflow port 33 faces downward. An inflow port 35 is provided at the upper portion of the cyclone housing 30. The inflow port 35 faces upward. The outflow port 33 and the inflow port 35 are coupled in a state where the body portion 11 of the main body housing 5 and the cyclone housing 30 are connected. The filter assembly 3 is housed in the rear portion of the cyclone housing 30 at the rear of the outflow port 33 and the inflow port 35.

The air that has flowed through the internal flow path of the inlet pipe portion 34 flows into an internal space of the cyclone housing 30 via the outflow port 33 and the inflow port 35. The internal space of the cyclone housing 30 and an internal space of the dust cup 42 are connected to each other. The air that has flowed into the internal space of the cyclone housing 30 is converted into a swirling flow by a swirling member (not illustrated), and then flows into the internal space of the dust cup 42.

A rear portion of the filter unit 50 is disposed in the internal space of the cyclone housing 30. A front portion of the filter unit 50 is disposed in the internal space of the dust cup 42. The air that has flowed into the dust cup 42 from the cyclone housing 30 swirls around the filter unit 50. The air in the internal space of the dust cup 42 passes through the filter unit 50 and then is discharged from the internal space of the dust cup 42.

The filter unit 50 includes a pre-filter 51, a sound absorbing member 52, and a post-filter 53. The sound absorbing member 52 is disposed around the post-filter 53. At least a part of the pre-filter 51 is disposed around the sound absorbing member 52.

The air that has flowed into the dust cup 42 from the cyclone housing 30 flows from the outside to the inside of the filter unit 50. Air that has passed through the pre-filter 51 flows through the sound absorbing member 52. Air that has passed through the sound absorbing member 52 flows through the post-filter 53.

The post-filter 53 is made of synthetic resin. In the embodiment, the post-filter 53 is made of ABS resin. The post-filter 53 has a filter tubular portion provided with a plurality of holes. The holes of the filter tubular portion are formed so as to penetrate an inner surface and an outer surface of the filter tubular portion.

The sound absorbing member 52 is disposed around the filter tubular portion of the post-filter 53. The sound absorbing member 52 includes a cylindrical sponge member. The sponge member is made of urethane resin. The sponge member is a porous member through which air can pass.

At least a part of the pre-filter 51 is disposed around the sound absorbing member 52. The pre-filter 51 includes a cylindrical mesh member. The mesh member is disposed around the sound absorbing member 52. The mesh member is made of nylon resin. The mesh member has a plurality of holes through which air passes.

As shown in FIG. 4, in the cyclone housing 30, a support plate portion 31 is provided in front of the filter assembly 3. An opening portion 32 is provided at the center of the support plate portion 31. A rear end portion of the post-filter 53 is inserted into the opening portion 32. The filter unit 50 is attachable to and detachable from the support plate portion 31 of the cyclone housing 30.

An outflow port is provided at the rear end portion of the post-filter 53. The rear end portion of the post-filter 53 is disposed in the opening portion 32. A space inside the post-filter 53 and a space around the filter assembly 3 are connected via the opening portion 32. The fan motor 8 can generate a suction force in the filter unit 50. When the fan motor 8 is driven to generate a suction force at the suction port 14, a suction force is generated in the opening portion 32 via the filter assembly 3 housed in the internal space of the cyclone housing 30. When the suction force is generated in the opening portion 32, the space inside the post-filter 53 has a negative pressure, and a suction force is generated in the filter unit 50. When the space inside the post-filter 53 has a negative pressure, air flows from the space around the filter unit 50 toward the space inside the post-filter 53. The air around the filter unit 50 passes through the pre-filter 51, passes through the sound absorbing member 52, then passes through the post-filter 53, and flows into the space inside the post-filter 53. The air that has flowed into the space inside the post-filter 53 flows out from the outflow port of the rear end portion of the post-filter 53 and is supplied to the filter assembly 3. The air that has passed through the filter assembly 3 flows into the motor assembly 7 from the suction port 14.

Motor Assembly

FIG. 9 is a view of a part of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front. FIG. 9 is a view illustrating a part of the cleaner 1 in a state where the right housing 5R is removed. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the cleaner 1 includes the motor assembly 7, a first elastic member 71 that is in contact with the front end portion of the motor assembly 7, second elastic members 72 that are in contact with an intermediate portion of the motor assembly 7 in the front-rear direction, and third elastic members 73 that are in contact with the rear end portion of the motor assembly 7.

FIG. 10 is a view of the motor assembly 7, the first elastic member 71, the second elastic members 72, and the third elastic members 73 according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a state in which each of the first elastic member 71, the second elastic members 72, and the third elastic members 73 is in contact with the motor assembly 7. FIG. 11 is a view of the motor assembly 7, the first elastic member 71, the second elastic members 72, and the third elastic members 73 according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front. FIG. 11 is a view illustrating a state in which each of the first elastic member 71, the second elastic members 72, and the third elastic members 73 is separated from the motor assembly 7.

The motor assembly 7 includes a motor case 22, a fan cover 24, and a control board 20. The motor case 22 houses the fan motor 8. The fan cover 24 is fixed to a front portion of the motor case 22. In the fan motor 8, the fan is disposed forward of the motor. The fan cover 24 is disposed so as to cover the fan.

The motor case 22 includes a cylindrical portion 23 and leg portions 26. The cylindrical portion 23 is disposed so as to surround the rotation axis AX. The cylindrical portion 23 is disposed so as to surround the fan motor 8. The leg portions 26 support the control board 20. The leg portions 26 are provided so as to protrude rearward from the rear end portion of the cylindrical portion 23. Two leg portions 26 are provided. The two leg portions 26 are disposed at positions facing each other in the radial direction. Rear portions of the leg portions 26 are disposed outside an outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23 in the radial direction.

The fan cover 24 includes a cylindrical portion 24A, a hook portion 24B, a plate portion 24C, and a rib portion 24D. The cylindrical portion 24A is disposed so as to surround the rotation axis AX. The cylindrical portion 24A is disposed around a front portion of the cylindrical portion 23. The hook portion 24B is hooked on a claw portion 23A provided on the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23. The hook portion 24B is hooked on the claw portion 23A, whereby the fan cover 24 is fixed to the motor case 22. The plate portion 24C is formed so as to cover an opening at the front end portion of the cylindrical portion 24A. The plate portion 24C is formed inside the front end portion of the cylindrical portion 24A. The outer shape of the plate portion 24C is substantially circular. A plurality of rib portions 24D are formed between the plate portion 24C and a front end portion of an inner surface of the cylindrical portion 24A. The rib portions 24D connect the cylindrical portion 24A and the plate portion 24C. The plurality of rib portions 24D are provided at intervals in a circumferential direction of the rotation axis AX. The rib portions 24D secure rigidity of the fan cover 24. A decrease in strength of the fan cover 24 is suppressed, and deformation of the fan cover 24 is suppressed.

The motor assembly 7 has an intake port 22A and an exhaust port 22B. The intake port 22A is provided at the front end portion of the motor assembly 7. The exhaust port 22B is provided at the rear of the intake port 22A. The intake port 22A is provided in the fan cover 24. The intake port 22A is provided at the center of the plate portion 24C of the fan cover 24. The intake port 22A has a substantially circular shape. A center of the intake port 22A substantially coincides with the rotation axis AX. The exhaust port 22B is provided at the rear end portion of the cylindrical portion 23. The exhaust port 22B is provided between the rear end portion of an outer surface of the fan motor 8 and the rear end portion of an inner surface of the cylindrical portion 23. A case flow path 68 is provided between the outer surface of the fan motor 8 and the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 23. The air that has flowed into the motor assembly 7 (motor case 22) from the intake port 22A flows rearward through the case flow path 68 and then is discharged from the exhaust port 22B.

The control board 20 outputs a control signal for controlling the fan motor 8. The control board 20 is supported by the leg portion 26. The control board 20 is disposed between the two leg portions 26.

The first elastic member 71 is in contact with each of the front end portion of the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5. At least a part of the first elastic member 71 is in contact with the fan cover 24. The first elastic member 71 is disposed at a front end portion of the fan cover 24. The main body housing 5 has the partition wall portion 16 disposed in front of the motor assembly 7. The suction port 14 is formed in the partition wall portion 16. At least a part of the first elastic member 71 is in contact with an inner surface of the suction port 14. At least a part of the first elastic member 71 is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16.

The first elastic member 71 includes an annular large diameter portion 71A and an annular small diameter portion 71B protruding forward from the large diameter portion 71A. Each of the large diameter portion 71A and the small diameter portion 71B has an annular shape. Each of the large diameter portion 71A and the small diameter portion 71B is disposed around the rotation axis AX. A center of the large diameter portion 71A and a center of the small diameter portion 71B substantially coincide with the rotation axis AX. In the radial direction of the rotation axis AX, a dimension (diameter) of the large diameter portion 71A is larger than a dimension (diameter) of the small diameter portion 71B. A front surface of the large diameter portion 71A is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16. The small diameter portion 71B is disposed in the suction port 14. An outer surface of the small diameter portion 71B is in contact with the inner surface of the suction port 14.

The first elastic member 71 has a ventilation port 71C. The ventilation port 71C is provided so as to penetrate a front surface of the small diameter portion 71B and the rear surface of the large diameter portion 71A. The ventilation port 71C includes a space inside the annular large diameter portion 71A and a space inside the annular small diameter portion 71B. As the fan motor 8 rotates, air around the filter assembly 3 flows into the intake port 22A of the motor assembly 7 via the ventilation port 71C.

When the fan motor 8 rotates and the internal space of the cyclone housing 30 becomes a negative pressure, the motor assembly 7 moves forward. Since the front surface of the large diameter portion 71A is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving in the front direction. Since the small diameter portion 71B is disposed in the suction port 14, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving in the radial direction. A frictional force between the front surface of the large diameter portion 71A and the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16 and a frictional force between the outer surface of the small diameter portion 71B and the inner surface of the suction port 14 restrict the motor assembly 7 from moving in the circumferential direction.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the first elastic member 71 according to the embodiment as viewed from the upper right front. In the embodiment, the first elastic member 71 includes a metal mesh portion 711, a synthetic resin portion 712 to which the metal mesh portion 711 is fixed, and a rubber portion 713 to which the synthetic resin portion 712 is fixed. The synthetic resin portion 712 is disposed so as to surround the ventilation port 71C. The rubber portion 713 is disposed so as to surround the ventilation port 71C. At least a part of the rubber portion 713 is disposed so as to surround the synthetic resin portion 712. At least a part of the rubber portion 713 is disposed outside the synthetic resin portion 712 in the radial direction. A front portion of an inner peripheral surface of the ventilation port 71C is formed by an inner peripheral surface of the synthetic resin portion 712. A rear portion of the inner peripheral surface of the ventilation port 71C is formed by an inner peripheral surface of the rubber portion 713. Most of the surface of the first elastic member 71 is the surface of the rubber portion 713. Each of the rear surface of the large diameter portion 71A, an outer peripheral surface of the large diameter portion 71A, the front surface of the large diameter portion 71A, and an outer peripheral surface of the small diameter portion 71B is formed by the surface of the rubber portion 713. The front surface of the small diameter portion 71B includes a surface of the synthetic resin portion 712 and a surface of the rubber portion 713. The front surface of the small diameter portion 71B has an annular shape. A peripheral edge portion of the front surface of the small diameter portion 71B is formed by the surface of the rubber portion 713. A region on the radially inner side of the surface of the rubber portion 713 on the front surface of the small diameter portion 71B is formed by the surface of the synthetic resin portion 712. The metal mesh portion 711 is fixed to the synthetic resin portion 712. At least a part of the metal mesh portion 711 is disposed in the ventilation port 71C. The synthetic resin portion 712 is disposed around the metal mesh portion 711 by, for example, insert molding.

The second elastic members 72 are disposed rearward of the first elastic member 71. The second elastic members 72 are made of rubber. The second elastic members 72 are in contact with the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5. At least a part of each of the second elastic member 72s is in contact with an intermediate portion of the cylindrical portion 23 of the motor case 22 in the front-rear direction. At least a part of each of the second elastic members 72 is in contact with an inner surface of the body portion 11.

The second elastic members 72 are disposed to be in contact with positions where the vibration is the smallest in the motor assembly 7 when the fan motor 8 rotates. The positions where the vibration is the smallest in the motor assembly 7 can be specified by, for example, a preliminary experiment or simulation. In the embodiment, the positions where the vibration is the smallest in the motor assembly 7 are the positions of the intermediate portion of the cylindrical portion 23 in the front-rear direction.

The second elastic members 72 support the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23 from the radial outside of the cylindrical portion 23 of the motor case 22. The radially inner end portions of the second elastic members 72 are in contact with the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23 of the motor case 22. The radially outer end portions of the second elastic members 72 are supported by the body portion 11 of the main body housing 5.

In the embodiment, the second elastic members 72 are provided to be in contact with the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23 at four locations in an intermediate portion of the cylindrical portion 23 in the front-rear direction. In the embodiment, four second elastic members 72 are provided. In the front-rear direction, the positions of the four second elastic members 72 are equal to each other. A first second elastic member 72 supports the upper left portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23. A second second elastic member 72 supports the lower left portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23. A third second elastic member 72 supports an upper right portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23. The fourth second elastic member 72 supports a lower right portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23.

Each of the second elastic members 72 includes a body portion 72A supported by the main body housing 5 and a support portion 72B in contact with the motor assembly 7. The body portion 72A is supported by a holding rib 29 (see FIG. 8) provided on the inner surface of the body portion 11. The support portion 72B is disposed inside the body portion 72A in the radial direction. The surface of the support portion 72B has a curved surface shape. At least a part of the surface of the support portion 72B is spherical. The support portion 72B is in contact with the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23 of the motor case 22. The support portion 72B is substantially in point contact with the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23. The cylindrical portion 23 is supported by the four support portions 72B. The movement of the motor assembly 7 in at least the radial direction is restricted by the four support portions 72B (i.e., the four second support members 72).

The third elastic members 73 are disposed rearward of the second elastic members 72. The third elastic members 73 are in contact with the motor assembly 7. In the embodiment, the third elastic members 73 are respectively disposed on the leg portions 26 of the motor case 22. Each of the third elastic members 73 has a recessed portion 73A into which the rear portion of the corresponding leg portion 26 is fitted. Two third elastic members 73 are provided so as to be disposed on the two leg portions 26, respectively.

Flow Path

FIG. 13 is a view of a part of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment as viewed from the right. FIG. 14 is a view of a part of the cleaner 1 according to the embodiment as viewed from the right rear. FIGS. 13 and 14 are views illustrating a part of the cleaner 1 in a state where the right housing 5R is removed.

The cleaner 1 has: inner flow paths 66 (second flow paths) through which the air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows; and outer flow paths 60 (first flow paths) through which the air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows. The outer flow paths 60 are disposed outside the inner flow paths 66 in the radial direction. The inner flow paths 66 and the outer flow paths 60 are disposed in parallel.

The outer flow paths 60 are provided between the outer surface of the motor assembly 7 (motor case 22) and the inner surface of the body portion 11 of the main body housing 5 in the radial direction of the rotation axis AX. The outer flow paths 60 are provided only in parts in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis AX. The outer flow paths 60 extend in the front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis AX. The air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows through the outer flow paths 60.

According to the present teachings, one or more outer flow paths 60 can be provided above and/or below the motor assembly 7. In the embodiment, the outer flow paths 60 are provided above and below the motor assembly 7, respectively. In the following description, the outer flow path 60 provided above the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as an outer upper flow path 60A, and the outer flow path 60 provided below the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as an outer lower flow path 60B.

The main body housing 5 has first ribs 27 protruding from the inner surface of the body portion 11 of the main body housing 5 and second ribs 28 protruding from the inner surface of the body portion 11 of the main body housing 5. The first ribs 27 face a part of the outer surface of the motor assembly 7. The first ribs 27 face a part of the outer surface of the motor case 22. The second ribs 28 are disposed outside the first ribs 27 in the radial direction. Each of the first ribs 27 and at least a part of each of the second ribs 28 are disposed at the same position in the front-rear direction. Each of the first ribs 27 and at least a part of each of the second ribs 28 are disposed at the same position in the left-right direction. The first ribs 27 and the second ribs 28 face each other in the up-down direction.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the first ribs 27 are provided in each of the left housing 5L and the right housing 5R. The first ribs 27 of the left housing 5L and the first ribs 27 of the right housing 5R are connected to each other. The first ribs 27 of the left housing 5L protrude rightward from an inner surface (right surface) of the left housing 5L. The first ribs 27 of the right housing 5R protrude leftward from an inner surface (left surface) of the right housing 5R. The right end portions of the first ribs 27 of the left housing 5L and the left end portions of the first ribs 27 of the right housing 5R are connected to each other.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the second ribs 28 are provided in each of the left housing 5L and the right housing 5R. The second ribs 28 of the left housing 5L and the second ribs 28 of the right housing 5R are connected to each other. The second ribs 28 of the left housing 5L protrude rightward from the inner surface (right surface) of the left housing 5L. The second ribs 28 of the right housing 5R protrude leftward from the inner surface (left surface) of the right housing 5R. The right end portions of the second ribs 28 of the left housing 5L and the left end portions of the second ribs 28 of the right housing 5R are connected to each other.

The first ribs 27 are provided above and below the motor assembly 7. In the following description, the first ribs 27 provided above the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as first upper ribs 27A, and the first ribs 27 provided below the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as first lower ribs 27B.

The second ribs 28 are provided above and below the motor assembly 7. In the following description, the second ribs 28 provided above the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as second upper ribs 28A, and the second ribs 28 provided below the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as second lower ribs 28B.

The outer flow paths 60 are provided outside the first ribs 27 in the radial direction. Each of the outer flow paths 60 is provided between the corresponding first ribs 27 and the corresponding second ribs 28. Each of the outer flow paths 60 is defined by the corresponding first ribs 27, the corresponding second ribs 28, and the inner surface of the body portion 11. Specifically, the outer upper flow path 60A is defined by upper surfaces of the first upper ribs 27A, lower surfaces of the second upper ribs 28A, and the inner surface of the body portion 11. The outer lower flow path 60B is defined by lower surfaces of the first lower ribs 27B, upper surfaces of the second lower ribs 28B, and the inner surface of the body portion 11.

In the embodiment, the front end portion of each of the second ribs 28 is connected to the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16. The front end portion of each of the first ribs 27 is disposed rearward of the partition wall portion 16. The front end portions of the first ribs 27 are separated from the partition wall portion 16. The rear portion of each of the first upper ribs 27A is bent downward. The rear portion of each of the first lower ribs 27B is bent upward. Rear end portions of the first upper ribs 27A and rear end portions of the first lower ribs 27B are connected to each other. The rear end portions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end portions of the first lower ribs 27B are connected to each other at a position rearward of the motor assembly 7.

Each of the inner flow paths 66 is provided between the outer surface of the motor assembly 7 and the corresponding first ribs 27 in the radial direction of the rotation axis AX. The inner flow path 66 may be provided only in a part in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis AX, or may be provided in the entire part in the rotation axis AX in the circumferential direction. The inner flow paths 66 extend in the front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis AX. The air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows through the inner flow paths 66.

In the embodiment, the inner flow paths 66 are provided above and below the motor assembly 7, respectively. In the following description, the inner flow path 66 provided above the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as an inner upper flow path 66A, and the inner flow path 66 provided below the motor assembly 7 will be appropriately referred to as an inner lower flow path 66B.

The inner upper flow path 66A is defined by the upper portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23, lower surfaces of the first upper ribs 27A, and the inner surface of the body portion 11. The inner lower flow path 66B is defined by the lower portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 23, upper surfaces of the first lower ribs 27B, and the inner surface of the body portion 11.

In the internal space of the body portion 11, an exhaust space 61 is provided rearward of the outer flow paths 60. The exhaust space 61 is defined at a position rearward of the first ribs 27. As described above, the rear end portions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end portions of the first lower ribs 27B are connected to each other at a position rearward of the motor assembly 7. An assembly space, which is provided forward of the rear end portions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end portions of the first lower ribs 27B and in which the motor assembly 7 is disposed, and the exhaust space 61 provided rearward of the rear end portions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end portions of the first lower ribs 27B are sectioned by the rear end portions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end portions of the first lower ribs 27B. The assembly space includes a space between the first upper ribs 27A and the first lower ribs 27B in the up-down direction. The assembly space is a space inside the first ribs 27, which is defined by the first upper ribs 27A and the first lower ribs 27B. Air in the assembly space does not flow out into the exhaust space 61 via the rear end portions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end portions of the first lower ribs 27B. Air in the exhaust space 61 does not flow out into the assembly space via the rear end portions of the first upper ribs 27A and the rear end portions of the first lower ribs 27B. That is, air does not directly flow between the assembly space and the exhaust space 61.

A rear end portion of each of the outer flow paths 60 is connected to the exhaust space 61. The air that has flowed through each of the outer flow paths 60 flows into the exhaust space 61. A rear end portion of the outer upper flow path 60A and a rear end portion of the outer lower flow path 60B are each connected to the exhaust space 61. The air that has flowed through the outer upper flow path 60A and the air that has flowed through the outer lower flow path 60B merge in the exhaust space 61.

As shown in FIG. 8, the main body housing 5 has holding ribs 29 protruding from the inner surface of the body portion 11 of the main body housing 5. The holding ribs 29 are provided in each of the left housing 5L and the right housing 5R. The holding ribs 29 of the left housing 5L protrude rightward from the inner surface (right surface) of the left housing 5L. The holding ribs 29 of the right housing 5R protrude leftward from the inner surface (left surface) of the right housing 5R.

The holding ribs 29 face the corresponding first ribs 27. The holding ribs 29 includes upper holding ribs 29A facing the lower surfaces of the first upper ribs 27A and lower holding ribs 29B facing the upper surfaces of the first lower ribs 27B. The upper holding ribs 29A are disposed below the first upper ribs 27A. The lower holding ribs 29B are disposed above the first lower ribs 27B.

The body portion 72A of each of the second elastic members 72 is inserted between the corresponding first rib 27 and the corresponding holding rib 29. The body portion 72A of the second elastic member 72 disposed at the upper left portion of the motor assembly 7 is held by the first upper rib 27A and the upper holding rib 29A of the left housing 5L. The body portion 72A of the second elastic member 72 disposed at the lower left portion of the motor assembly 7 is held by the first lower rib 27B and the lower holding rib 29B of the left housing 5L. The body portion 72A of the second elastic member 72 disposed at the upper right portion of the motor assembly 7 is held by the first upper rib 27A and the upper holding rib 29A of the right housing 5R. The body portion 72A of the second elastic member 72 disposed at the lower right portion of the motor assembly 7 is held by the first lower rib 27B and the lower holding rib 29B of the right housing 5R.

The cleaner 1 includes first sound absorbing members 62 disposed in the outer flow paths 60. The first sound absorbing members 62 are open-cell porous members. The first sound absorbing members 62 absorb sound propagating through the air to suppress generation of noise.

An outer shape of each of the first sound absorbing members 62 is substantially a rectangular parallelepiped shape. A front-rear dimension of the outer shape of the first sound absorbing member 62 is larger than an up-down dimension and a left-right dimension of the outer shape of the first sound absorbing member 62. That is, the outer shape of the first sound absorbing member 62 is a rectangular parallelepiped shape elongated in the front-rear direction.

Each of the first sound absorbing members 62 has first circulation holes 621 penetrating the front surface and the rear surface of the first sound absorbing member 62. The first circulation holes 621 are provided at a plurality of positions different from each other in each of the up-down direction and the left-right direction of the first sound absorbing member 62. In the embodiment, five first circulation holes 621 are provided in one first sound absorbing member 62. The first circulation holes 621 extend in the front-rear direction. The five first circulation holes 621 are parallel to each other.

The first sound absorbing members 62 are disposed in each of the outer upper flow path 60A and the outer lower flow path 60B. In the following description, the first sound absorbing members 62 disposed in the outer upper flow path 60A are appropriately referred to as first upper sound absorbing members 62A, and the first sound absorbing members 62 disposed in the outer lower flow path 60B are appropriately referred to as first lower sound absorbing members 62B.

Two first sound absorbing members 62 are disposed in the left-right direction in each of the outer flow paths 60. A right surface of each of the left first sound absorbing members 62 and a left surface of each of the right first sound absorbing members 62 are in contact with each other. Two first upper sound absorbing members 62A are disposed in the left-right direction in the outer upper flow path 60A. Two first lower sound absorbing members 62B are disposed in the left-right direction in the outer lower flow path 60B.

The cleaner 1 includes second sound absorbing members 64 disposed at positions facing the exhaust ports 15 inside the main body housing 5. The second sound absorbing members 64 are open-cell porous members. The second sound absorbing members 64 absorb sound propagating through the air to suppress generation of noise.

The exhaust ports 15 face the exhaust space 61. The air that has flowed through the outer flow paths 60 is discharged from the exhaust ports 15. The second sound absorbing members 64 are disposed in the exhaust space 61.

Each of the second sound absorbing members 64 has a substantially plate shape. A left-right dimension of the outer shape of the second sound absorbing member 64 is smaller than an up-down dimension and a front-rear dimension of the outer shape of the second sound absorbing member 64.

The second sound absorbing members 64 are disposed at positions facing the exhaust ports 15 provided in the left portion of the body portion 11 and the exhaust ports 15 provided in the right portion of the body portion 11. Each of the second sound absorbing members 64 has a front surface facing the center of the internal space of the body portion 11 and a back surface facing the exhaust ports 15.

Each of the second sound absorbing members 64 has second circulation holes 641 penetrating the front surface and the back surface of the second sound absorbing member 64. The second circulation holes 641 are provided at a plurality of positions different from each other in each of the up-down direction and the front-rear direction of the second sound absorbing member 64. In the embodiment, one second sound absorbing member 64 is provided with a larger number of second circulation holes 641 than the number (five) of first circulation holes 621 provided in one first sound absorbing member 62.

A size (flow path sectional area) of one first circulation hole 621 is different from a size (flow path sectional area) of one second circulation hole 641. In the embodiment, the size of the first circulation hole 621 is smaller than the size of the second circulation hole 641.

Using Method

Next, a method of using the cleaner 1 will be described. When the drive button 9B is operated and the fan motor 8 starts rotating, a suction force is generated at the suction port 14. When a suction force is generated at the suction port 14, a suction force is generated at the suction port of the suction nozzle 100. The air sucked through the suction port of the suction nozzle 100 flows through an internal flow path of the extension pipe 101, and then flows into the internal flow path of the inlet pipe portion 34 from the opening at the front end portion of the inlet pipe portion 34. The air that has flowed through the internal flow path of the inlet pipe portion 34 flows into the internal space of the cyclone housing 30 through the outflow port 33 of the inlet pipe portion 34 and the inflow port 35 of the cyclone housing 30. The air that has flowed into the internal space of the cyclone housing 30 passes through a swirling member (not illustrated) and then flows into the internal space of the dust cup 42.

The air that has flowed into the internal space of the dust cup 42 swirls in the internal space of the dust cup 42. In the dust cup 42, air and dust are separated by a centrifugal force. The dust is accumulated at the front end portion of the internal space of the dust cup 42. The air separated from the dust flows from the outside to the inside of the filter unit 50.

The air that has flowed into the space inside the post-filter 53 from the space around the filter unit 50 flows out from the outflow port provided at the rear end portion of the post-filter 53 and is supplied to the filter assembly 3. The air that has passed through the filter assembly 3 passes through the ventilation port 71C of the first elastic member 71 disposed in the suction port 14. The air that has passed through the ventilation port 71C flows into the intake port 22A of the motor assembly 7. The air that has flowed into the intake port 22A flows rearward through the case flow path 68 between the outer surface of the fan motor 8 and the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 23, and then is discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7.

The air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 is supplied to the inner flow paths 66 between the outer surface of the motor assembly 7 and the first ribs 27. The air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows into the inner flow paths 66 from the rear end portion of the inner flow paths 66. As described above, air does not flow directly between the assembly space and the exhaust space 61. The air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 hits the front surfaces of the rear portions of the first ribs 27 disposed rearward of the motor assembly 7, and then flows into the inner flow paths 66 from the rear end portions of the inner flow paths 66.

The air discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 flows into each of the inner upper flow path 66A and the inner lower flow path 66B. The air that is discharged from the exhaust port 22B of the motor assembly 7 and flows into the inner flow paths 66 (66A, 66B) from the rear end portions of the inner flow paths 66 flows forward through the inner flow paths 66. The air that has flowed forward through the inner flow paths 66 passes through the front end portions of the first ribs 27 and then flows into the outer flow paths 60 from the front end portions of the outer flow paths 60.

As described above, the front end portions of the first ribs 27 are disposed rearward of the partition wall portion 16 and are separated from the partition wall portion 16. The front end portions of the inner flow paths 66 and the front end portions of the outer flow paths 60 are connected via a space between the front end portions of the first ribs 27 and the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16. The first elastic member 71 is in contact with (in close contact with) the partition wall portion 16. Therefore, the air that has flowed out from the front end portions of the inner flow paths 66 can flow into the outer flow paths 60 from the front end portions of the outer flow paths 60.

The air that has flowed through the inner upper flow path 66A passes through the front end portions of the first upper ribs 27A and then flows into the outer upper flow path 60A. The air that has flowed through the inner lower flow path 66B passes through the front end portions of the first lower ribs 27B and then flows into the outer lower flow path 60B.

The air that has flowed out from the front end portions of the inner flow paths 66 and flowed into the outer flow paths 60 from the front end portions of the outer flow paths 60 flows rearward through the outer flow paths 60. In the embodiment, the first sound absorbing members 62 are disposed in the outer flow paths 60. The air flows through the first circulation holes 621 of the first sound absorbing members 62. The air flows rearward through the first circulation holes 621 of the first sound absorbing members 62. In the embodiment, the air flowing rearward through the outer flow paths 60 includes the air flowing rearward through the first circulation holes 621.

The rear end portions of the outer flow paths 60 (the rear end portions of the first circulation holes 621) are connected to the exhaust space 61. The air that has flowed through the outer flow paths 60 flows into the exhaust space 61. A rear end portion of the outer upper flow path 60A (rear end portions of the first circulation holes 621 of the first upper sound absorbing member 62A) and a rear end portion of the outer lower flow path 60B (rear end portions of the first circulation holes 621 of the first lower sound absorbing member 62B) are connected to the exhaust space 61. The air that has flowed through the outer upper flow path 60A and the air that has flowed through the outer lower flow path 60B merge in the exhaust space 61.

The air that has flowed into the exhaust space 61 from the outer flow paths 60 is discharged to the outside of the main body housing 5 from the exhaust ports 15 facing the exhaust space 61. In the embodiment, the second sound absorbing members 64 are disposed at positions facing the exhaust ports 15 inside the body portion 11. The air in the exhaust space 61 passes through the second circulation holes 641 of the second sound absorbing members 64 and then is discharged from the exhaust ports 15.

Effects

As described above, in the embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes: the main body housing 5 having the suction port 14; the motor assembly that is housed in the main body housing 5, includes the fan motor 8 that rotates about the rotation axis AX, and generates a suction force at the suction port 14; and one or more outer flow paths 60 serving as one or more first flow paths through which air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows. One or more outer flow paths 60 are provided between the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5 in the radial direction of the rotation axis AX only in a part in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis AX and extend in the front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis AX.

In the above configuration, since the outer flow paths 60 are provided only in parts in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis AX, an increase in size of the cleaner 1 is suppressed. In particular, an increase in size of the main body housing 5 in the radial direction is suppressed.

In the embodiment, the outer flow path(s) 60 is (are) provided above and/or below the motor assembly 7.

In the above configuration, since the outer flow path(s) 60 is (are) provided above and/or below the motor assembly 7, an increase in size of the main body housing 5 in the left-right direction is suppressed.

In the embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes: the inlet pipe portion 34 through which the air sent to the suction port 14 flows; and the dust cup 42 disposed forward of the suction port 14. The inlet pipe portion 34 and the dust cup 42 are disposed in the up-down direction. The outer flow paths 60 are provided above and below the motor assembly 7, respectively.

In the above configuration, since the inlet pipe portion 34 and the dust cup 42 are disposed in the up-down direction, the up-down dimension of the cleaner 1 increases in the inlet pipe portion 34 and the dust cup 42. A dead space is formed at the rear of the inlet pipe portion 34 and the dust cup 42. Since the outer flow paths 60 are provided above and below the motor assembly 7, respectively, the outer flow paths 60 are disposed in the dead space at the rear of the inlet pipe portion 34 and the dust cup 42. Since the dead space is effectively utilized, an increase in size of the main body housing 5 in the left-right direction is suppressed. In addition, since the air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows through each of the outer flow path 60A provided above the motor assembly 7 and the outer flow path 60B provided below the motor assembly 7, a decrease in air flow is suppressed.

In the embodiment, the main body housing 5 may have the first ribs 27 protruding from the inner surface of the main body housing 5 and facing a part of the outer surface of the motor assembly 7, and the second ribs 28 protruding from the inner surface of the main body housing 5 and disposed outside the first rib 27 in the radial direction. The outer flow paths 60 are provided between the first ribs 27 and the second ribs 28 in the radial direction.

In the above configuration, the outer flow paths 60 can be formed by the first ribs 27 and the second ribs 28 of the main body housing 5.

In the embodiment, the main body housing 5 has the first ribs 27 protruding from the inner surface of the main body housing 5 and facing a part of the outer surface of the motor assembly 7. The outer flow paths 60 are provided outside the first ribs 27 in the radial direction. The cleaner 1 includes the inner flow paths 66 that are second flow paths provided between the motor assembly 7 and the first ribs 27 in the radial direction of the rotation axis AX, extending in the front-rear direction parallel to the rotation axis AX, and through which the air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows. The air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows forward through the inner flow paths 66, passes through the front end portions of the first ribs 27, and then flows rearward through the outer flow paths 60.

In the above configuration, the air discharged from the motor assembly 7 flows forward through the inner flow paths 66 and then flows rearward through the outer flow paths 60. Since the flow paths of the air discharged from the motor assembly 7 becomes long, generation of noise from the cleaner 1 is suppressed.

In the embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes the first sound absorbing members 62 disposed in the outer flow paths 60.

In the above configuration, the first sound absorbing member 62 suppresses generation of noise from the cleaner 1.

In the embodiment, the first sound absorbing member 62 has the first circulation holes 621 penetrating the front surface and the rear surface of the first sound absorbing member 62.

In the above configuration, air can smoothly flow rearward through the first circulation holes 621.

In the embodiment, the first circulation holes 621 are provided at a plurality of positions different from each other in each of the up-down direction and the left-right direction of the first sound absorbing member 62.

In the above configuration, the air can smoothly flow rearward through each of the first circulation holes 621.

In the embodiment, the front-rear dimension of the first sound absorbing member 62 is larger than the up-down dimension and the left-right dimension of the first sound absorbing member 62.

In the above configuration, since lengths of the first circulation holes 621 in the front-rear direction becomes long, generation of noise caused by air flowing through the first circulation holes 621 is suppressed.

In the embodiment, the main body housing 5 has the exhaust ports 15 for discharging the air that has flowed through the outer flow paths 60. The cleaner 1 includes the second sound absorbing members 64 disposed at position facing the exhaust ports 15 inside the main body housing 5. The second sound absorbing member 64 has second circulation holes 641 penetrating the front surface and the back surface of the second sound absorbing member 64. The size of first circulation hole 621 is different from the size of second circulation hole 641.

In the above configuration, the second sound absorbing members 64 suppress generation of noise from the cleaner 1.

In the embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes the first elastic member 71 that is in contact with each of the front end portion of the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5.

In the above configuration, the first elastic member 71 suppresses transmission of the vibration of the motor assembly 7 to the main body housing 5. Therefore, generation of noise from the cleaner 1 is suppressed.

In the embodiment, the main body housing 5 has the partition wall portion 16, which is disposed forward of the motor assembly 7 and in which the suction port 14 is formed. At least a part of the first elastic member 71 is in contact with an inner surface of the suction port 14. At least a part of the first elastic member 71 is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16.

In the above configuration, since at least a part of the first elastic member 71 is in contact with the inner surface of the suction port 14, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving in the radial direction. Since at least a part of the first elastic member 71 is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving in the front direction.

In the embodiment, the first elastic member 71 has the annular large diameter portion 71A in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16, and the annular small diameter portion 71B protruding forward from the large diameter portion 71A and in contact with the inner surface of the suction port 14.

In the above configuration, since the small diameter portion 71B of the first elastic member 71 is in contact with the inner surface of the suction port 14, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving in the radial direction. Since the large diameter portion 71A of the first elastic member 71 is in contact with the rear surface of the partition wall portion 16, the motor assembly 7 is restricted from moving in the front direction.

In the embodiment, the first elastic member 71 includes the metal mesh portion 711, the synthetic resin portion 712 to which the metal mesh portion 711 is fixed, and the rubber portion 713 to which the synthetic resin portion 712 is fixed.

In the above configuration, since the metal mesh portion 711 is disposed in the ventilation port 71C of the first elastic member 71, dust is suppressed from passing through the ventilation port 71C. The metal mesh portion 711 prevents dust from entering the inside of the motor assembly 7. The synthetic resin portion 712 secures the rigidity of the first elastic member 71. The rubber portion 713 suppresses transmission of vibration of the motor assembly 7 to the main body housing 5, so that generation of noise from the cleaner 1 is suppressed.

In the embodiment, the cleaner 1 includes the second elastic members 72 disposed rearward of the first elastic member 71 and in contact with each of the motor assembly 7 and the main body housing 5.

In the above configuration, the second elastic member 72 suppresses transmission of the vibration of the motor assembly 7 to the main body housing 5. Therefore, generation of noise from the cleaner 1 is suppressed.

In the embodiment, the second elastic members 72 are disposed so as to be in contact with positions where the vibration is the smallest in the motor assembly 7 when the fan motor 8 rotates.

In the above configuration, since the second elastic members 72 are in contact with the positions where the vibration is the smallest in the motor assembly 7, the vibration of the motor assembly 7 is effectively suppressed from being transmitted to the main body housing 5. Therefore, generation of noise from the cleaner 1 is effectively suppressed.

In the embodiment, the radially inner end portion of the second elastic member 72 is in contact with the motor assembly 7, and the radially outer end portion of the second elastic member 72 is supported by the main body housing 5.

In the above configuration, the motor assembly 7 is radially supported by the main body housing 5 via the second elastic members 72.

In the embodiment, the second elastic members 72 are in contact with the outer surface of the motor assembly 7 at four locations in the intermediate portion of the motor assembly 7 in the front-rear direction.

In the above configuration, the motor assembly 7 is radially supported at four locations by the main body housing 5. In the above configuration, the motor assembly 7 is radially supported via four second elastic members 72.

In the embodiment, the second elastic member 72 includes the body portion 72A supported by the main body housing 5 and the support portion 72B having a curved surface in contact with the motor assembly 7.

In the above configuration, since the contact area between the support portion 72B and the motor assembly 7 is small, transmission of vibration of the motor assembly 7 to the main body housing 5 is effectively suppressed. Therefore, generation of noise from the cleaner 1 is effectively suppressed.

OTHER EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cleaner 1 according to another embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the outer flow paths 60 are provided only above and below the motor case 22. That is, the outer flow paths 60 include the outer upper flow path 60A and the outer lower flow path 60B. Instead, the outer flow path 60 may include only the outer upper flow path 60A or only the outer lower flow path 60B. The outer flow path 60 may include only an outer left flow path 60C provided on the left side of the motor case 22. The outer flow path 60 may include only an outer right flow path 60D provided on the right side of the motor case 22. The outer flow path 60 may include only an outer left upper flow path 60E provided on the upper left side of the motor case 22. The outer flow path 60 may include only an outer right lower flow path 60F provided on the lower right side of the motor case 22. The outer flow path 60 may include only an outer right upper flow path 60G provided on the upper right side of the motor case 22. The outer flow path 60 may include only an outer left lower flow path 60H provided on the lower left side of the motor case 22.

In the embodiment described above, the cleaner 1 is a cyclone cleaner. The cleaner 1 may not be a cyclone cleaner.

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