AU2024201730B2 - Surface cleaner - Google Patents

Abstract

A surface cleaner includes a base movable over a surface to be cleaned and having a suction inlet and a brushroll removably coupled to the base and rotatable about a brushroll axis, and a brushroll cover coupled to the base. A latch is movable between an unlocked position in which the brushroll is removable from the base and a locked position in which the brushroll is coupled to the base. The brushroll cover includes an actuator that moves the latch from the unlocked position toward the locked position when the brushroll cover is attached to the base such that when the brushroll cover is coupled to the base, the latch is retained in the locked position by the actuator to prevent removal of the brushroll. When the brushroll cover is uncoupled from the base, the latch moves to the unlocked position such that the brushroll is removable from the base.

Description

3/12

12 46 170 2024201730

166 82 58

9B-9B 62 174

74 106

54 134 110 118 50 142 70 102

FIG. 3

166 82

170

174

86 58 62 74 178 =Al

54 130

Al 70 142 118

FIG. 4

SURFACE CLEANER 15 Mar 2024

SURFACE CLEANER BACKGROUND BACKGROUND

[0001]

[0001] The disclosure relates to surface cleaners, and more particularly, to surface cleaners The disclosure relates to surface cleaners, and more particularly, to surface cleaners

having aa removable having removablebrushroll. brushroll.

SUMMARY SUMMARY 2024201730

[0002]

[0002] In one In embodiment one embodiment a surfacecleaner a surface cleanerisisdisclosed disclosedincluding includingaahandle handleconfigured configuredtoto move the surface cleaner along a surface, a debris collector, a vacuum source operable to move the surface cleaner along a surface, a debris collector, a vacuum source operable to

generate a suction airflow along a fluid flow path from a suction inlet to the debris collector, and generate a suction airflow along a fluid flow path from a suction inlet to the debris collector, and

a base a base coupled to the coupled to the handle. Thebase handle. The baseis is movable overthe movable over thesurface surfacetoto be be cleaned cleanedby bythe the handle handle and includes and includes the the suction suction inlet inletininfluid communication fluid communication with the vacuum with the sourceand vacuum source andthe thedebris debris collector, a brushroll removably coupled to the base and rotatable about a brushroll axis, and a collector, a brushroll removably coupled to the base and rotatable about a brushroll axis, and a

brushroll cover brushroll cover coupled to the coupled to the base. A latch base. A latch is is movable betweenananunlocked movable between unlocked positionininwhich position which the brushroll is removable from the base and a locked position in which the brushroll is coupled the brushroll is removable from the base and a locked position in which the brushroll is coupled

to the base for rotation about the brushroll axis. The brushroll cover includes an actuator that to the base for rotation about the brushroll axis. The brushroll cover includes an actuator that

movesthe moves thelatch latch from fromthe the unlocked unlockedposition positiontoward towardthe thelocked lockedposition positionwhen whenthethe brushrollcover brushroll cover is attached to the base such that when the brushroll cover is coupled to the base, the latch is is attached to the base such that when the brushroll cover is coupled to the base, the latch is

retained in the locked position by the actuator to prevent removal of the brushroll. When the retained in the locked position by the actuator to prevent removal of the brushroll. When the

brushroll cover is uncoupled from the base, the latch moves to the unlocked position such that brushroll cover is uncoupled from the base, the latch moves to the unlocked position such that

the brushroll is removable from the base. the brushroll is removable from the base.

[0003]

[0003] Other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed Other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed

description and description and accompanying drawings. accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF OF THE THE DRAWINGS DRAWINGS

[0004]

[0004] Fig. 11 isisaaperspective Fig. perspectiveview viewof ofa asurface surfacecleaner cleaneraccording accordingtotoone oneembodiment of the embodiment of the disclosure. disclosure.

[0005]

[0005] Fig. 2 is a side view of a base of the surface cleaner of Fig. 1. Fig. 2 is a side view of a base of the surface cleaner of Fig. 1.

[0006]

[0006] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the base of Fig. 2. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the base of Fig. 2.

[0007] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the base of Fig. 3 with a brushroll cover removed. 15 Mar 2024

[0007] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the base of Fig. 3 with a brushroll cover removed.

[0008]

[0008] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the base of Fig. 4, with an arm in an unsecured Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the base of Fig. 4, with an arm in an unsecured

position. position.

[0009]

[0009] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the base of Fig. 4, with a brushroll and the brushroll Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the base of Fig. 4, with a brushroll and the brushroll

cover hidden. cover hidden. 2024201730

[0010]

[0010] Fig. 7 is a first perspective view of a brushroll. Fig. 7 is a first perspective view of a brushroll.

[0011]

[0011] Fig. 8 is a second perspective view of the brushroll of Fig. 7. Fig. 8 is a second perspective view of the brushroll of Fig. 7.

[0012]

[0012] Fig. 9a is a partial cross-sectional view of the base of Fig. 6, taken along section line Fig. 9a is a partial cross-sectional view of the base of Fig. 6, taken along section line

9a—9a 9a-9a ininFig. Fig.6.6.

[0013]

[0013] Fig. 9b is a partial cross-sectional view of the base of Fig. 3, taken along section line Fig. 9b is a partial cross-sectional view of the base of Fig. 3, taken along section line

9b—9b 9b-9b in in Fig.3.3. Fig.

[0014]

[0014] Fig. 10 is a partial top view of the base of Fig. 6. Fig. 10 is a partial top view of the base of Fig. 6.

[0015]

[0015] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the base, with the brushroll cover removed and the Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the base, with the brushroll cover removed and the

base coupled to a drip tray. base coupled to a drip tray.

[0016]

[0016] Fig. 12 Fig. 12 is is aaperspective perspectiveview view of ofaasurface surfacecleaner cleaneraccording accordingtotoanother anotherembodiment of embodiment of

the disclosure. the disclosure.

[0017]

[0017] Fig. 13a is a perspective view of a base of a surface cleaner according to yet another Fig. 13a is a perspective view of a base of a surface cleaner according to yet another

embodiment embodiment of of thedisclosure. the disclosure.

[0018]

[0018] Fig. 13b is a perspective view of the base of Fig. 13a, with a brushroll cover removed. Fig. 13b is a perspective view of the base of Fig. 13a, with a brushroll cover removed.

[0019]

[0019] Before any embodiments of the present disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be Before any embodiments of the present disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be

understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of

construction and construction and the the arrangement ofcomponents arrangement of componentssetset forthininthe forth thefollowing followingdescription descriptionor or illustrated ininthe illustrated following the followingdrawings. drawings. Example embodiments Example embodiments of of thethe present present disclosure disclosure are are

capable of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. capable of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

2

DETAILEDDESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION 15 Mar 2024

DETAILED

[0020]

[0020] Fig. 1 illustrates a surface cleaner 10 including a base 12 and a body 14 pivotally Fig. 1 illustrates a surface cleaner 10 including a base 12 and a body 14 pivotally

coupled to the base 12. The body 14 is pivotal relative to the base 12 between an upright storage coupled to the base 12. The body 14 is pivotal relative to the base 12 between an upright storage

position (Fig. 1) and an inclined operating position. The surface cleaner 10 further includes a position (Fig. 1) and an inclined operating position. The surface cleaner 10 further includes a

vacuumsource vacuum source1818operable operable to to generatea asuction generate suctionairflow airflowalong alonga afluid fluid flow flowpath path from fromaasuction suction inlet 66 (Fig. 6) to a debris collector 22 in fluid communication with the vacuum source 18. In inlet 66 (Fig. 6) to a debris collector 22 in fluid communication with the vacuum source 18. In 2024201730

the illustrated embodiment, the surface cleaner 10 includes a supply tank 26 to store a cleaning the illustrated embodiment, the surface cleaner 10 includes a supply tank 26 to store a cleaning

fluid. In fluid. In other other embodiments, the surface embodiments, the surface cleaner cleaner 10 10 may maybebea avacuum vacuum cleaner cleaner thatdoes that does not not

include aa supply include tank and supply tank does not and does not spray spray fluid fluid onto onto aa surface. surface. In In such such an an embodiment, thedebris embodiment, the debris collector 22 may include a cyclonic separator. collector 22 may include a cyclonic separator.

[0021]

[0021] A handle A handle3030extends extendsfrom fromthe thebody body1414 to to allowananoperator allow operatortotomove movethethe surface surface

cleaner 10 along a surface to be cleaned. The handle 30 includes a grip 34 and a user interface cleaner 10 along a surface to be cleaned. The handle 30 includes a grip 34 and a user interface

38 adjacent the 38 adjacent the grip grip 34. 34. The grip 34 The grip is graspable 34 is graspable by by aa user user when operating the when operating the surface surface cleaner cleaner

10, 10, and and the the user user interface interface38 38controls controlsthe vacuum the vacuum source source 18, 18, and and may control the may control the flow flow of of cleaning fluid from the supply tank 26 or other features of the cleaner. The user interface 38 cleaning fluid from the supply tank 26 or other features of the cleaner. The user interface 38

maybebeprovided may providedononanother anotherlocation locationononthe thecleaner. cleaner.InInthe theillustrated illustrated embodiment, embodiment, a abattery battery 42 42 is removably coupled to the surface cleaner 10 to provide power to the surface cleaner 10 (e.g., is removably coupled to the surface cleaner 10 to provide power to the surface cleaner 10 (e.g.,

to the to the vacuum source1818and vacuum source andbrushroll brushrollmotor). motor).The The battery4242 battery ofof theillustrated the illustrated embodiment embodiment is isa a

rechargeable lithium-ion rechargeable lithium-ion battery. battery. In In other other embodiments, power embodiments, power is is suppliedtotothe supplied thecleaner cleanerby byaa powercord power cordconnected connectedtotomains mains electricity. electricity.

[0022]

[0022] Withreference With referenceto to Figs. Figs. 1-6, 1-6, the thebase base12 12 includes includes aarearward rearward end end 46, 46, aa forward forward end end 50 50

opposite the opposite the rearward end 46, rearward end 46, aa first first side side5454extending extendingbetween between the the rearward end 46 rearward end 46 and andthe the forwardend forward end50, 50, and andaa second secondside side5858opposite oppositethe thefirst first side side54. 54. The The base base 12 includes wheels 12 includes wheels62 62 to facilitate movement of the base 12 over the surface, and the base 12 includes the suction inlet to facilitate movement of the base 12 over the surface, and the base 12 includes the suction inlet

66 in 66 in fluid fluid communication withthe communication with thevacuum vacuum source source 18 18 andand the the debris debris collector22.22.A brushroll collector A brushroll 70 is 70 is removably coupledtotothe removably coupled thebase base12 12and, and,when whencoupled coupled to to thebase the base12, 12,isisrotatable rotatable about a about a

brushroll axis A1 that extends between the first side 54 and the second side 58 of the base 12. brushroll axis A1 that extends between the first side 54 and the second side 58 of the base 12.

The base 12 further includes a latch 74 that selectively secures the brushroll 70 to the base 12 The base 12 further includes a latch 74 that selectively secures the brushroll 70 to the base 12

and a brushroll cover 82 that is selectively coupled to the base 12 to cover a portion of the and a brushroll cover 82 that is selectively coupled to the base 12 to cover a portion of the

3 brushroll 70. The base 12 further includes a fluid distributor configured to deliver fluid to the 15 Mar 2024 brushroll 70. The base 12 further includes a fluid distributor configured to deliver fluid to the surface to be cleaned. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid distributor includes a plurality of surface to be cleaned. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid distributor includes a plurality of dispensers 78 positioned adjacent to the suction inlet 66 and to the brushroll 70. The dispensers dispensers 78 positioned adjacent to the suction inlet 66 and to the brushroll 70. The dispensers

78 are 78 are in in fluid fluidcommunication withthe communication with thesupply supplytank tank2626totoselectively selectively administer the cleaning administer the cleaning

fluid to the brushroll 70 to wet the brushroll 70. fluid to the brushroll 70 to wet the brushroll 70.

[0023]

[0023] Withcontinued With continuedreference referencetotoFigs. Figs. 2-6, 2-6, the the base base 12 12 includes includes aa drive drive mechanism mechanism 8686that that 2024201730

is operably is operably coupled to the coupled to the brushroll brushroll 70 70 when the brushroll when the brushroll 70 70 is is coupled coupled to to the thebase base12. 12. The The

drive mechanism drive mechanism 8686 includes includes anan output output 9090 to to driverotation drive rotationofof the the brushroll brushroll 70 70 about the about the

brushroll axis A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the output 90 is adjacent the second side 58 of brushroll axis A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the output 90 is adjacent the second side 58 of

the base the base 12. Thedrive 12. The drive mechanism mechanism 86 86 maymay include include a brushroll a brushroll motor motor 94 and 94 and a transmission a transmission 98 98 (schematically identified (schematically identified in Fig. in Fig. 6), 6), such such as aas a belt belt drive, drive, to provide to provide torquetorque to the to the output output 90. In 90. In

other embodiments, other thetransmission embodiments, the transmission9898may may be be driven driven by by thethe suction suction motor motor or or a turbine. a turbine.

[0024]

[0024] With reference to Figs. 3-8, the brushroll 70 includes a first end 102 and a second end With reference to Figs. 3-8, the brushroll 70 includes a first end 102 and a second end

106 opposite 106 opposite thethe firstendend first 102. 102. The The brushroll brushroll axis A1axis A1 extends extends through through the the102 first end first andend the 102 and the

second end 106, and the brushroll 70 is rotatable about the brushroll axis A1. A brushroll second end 106, and the brushroll 70 is rotatable about the brushroll axis A1. A brushroll

material 110 such as bristles, bristle strips, flaps, microfiber, tufted fiber, or other material is material 110 such as bristles, bristle strips, flaps, microfiber, tufted fiber, or other material is

disposed along an outer surface of the brushroll 70. In the illustrated embodiment the brushroll disposed along an outer surface of the brushroll 70. In the illustrated embodiment the brushroll

material 110 is a microfiber or tufted fiber material and extends between the first and second material 110 is a microfiber or tufted fiber material and extends between the first and second

ends 102, ends 102, 106. 106. The Thesecond second end end 106106 includes includes an an input input 114114 to to be be coupled coupled to to thethe output output 90 90 of of the the

drive mechanism drive mechanism 8686 when when thethe brushroll brushroll 70 70 is is coupled coupled to to thebase the base12. 12.InInthe theillustrated illustrated embodiment,thetheinput embodiment, input114 114and and theoutput the output9090form form a keyed a keyed or or splined splined connection connection such such that that oneone of of

the input the input 114 114 and the output and the output 90 90 includes includes grooves to receive grooves to receive keyed or splined keyed or splined drive drive members members

provided on the other of the input 114 and the output 90 such that the input 114 co-rotates with provided on the other of the input 114 and the output 90 such that the input 114 co-rotates with

the output 90, and the brushroll 70 (e.g., the brushroll material 110) co-rotates with the input 114 the output 90, and the brushroll 70 (e.g., the brushroll material 110) co-rotates with the input 114

so that the drive mechanism 86 rotates the brushroll 70 about the brushroll axis A1 during at SO that the drive mechanism 86 rotates the brushroll 70 about the brushroll axis A1 during at

least some least modesofofoperation some modes operationofofthe the surface surface cleaner cleaner 10. 10. Therefore, Therefore,the the second secondend end106 106isis supported by supported bythe the drive drive mechanism mechanism 86 86 when when the the brushroll brushroll 70 70 is is coupled coupled to to thebase the base12.12.

[0025]

[0025] With continued reference to Figs. 3-8, the first end 102 of the brushroll 70 includes an With continued reference to Figs. 3-8, the first end 102 of the brushroll 70 includes an

arm118 arm 118that that is is selectively selectivelymovable betweenananunsecured movable between unsecuredposition position(Fig. (Fig.5)5)in in which whichthe the

4 brushroll 70 is removable and a secured position (Fig. 3) in which the brushroll 70 is secured to 15 Mar 2024 brushroll 70 is removable and a secured position (Fig. 3) in which the brushroll 70 is secured to the base the base 12. Thearm 12. The arm118 118inhibits inhibitsremoval removalofofthe thebrushroll brushroll70 70from fromthe thebase base1212when whenin in the the secured position and the latch 74 is in the locked position and allows removal of the brushroll 70 secured position and the latch 74 is in the locked position and allows removal of the brushroll 70 from the from the base base 12 12 when whenininthe theunsecured unsecuredposition. position.The The arm arm 118118 is is rotatablycoupled rotatably coupled to to thefirst the first end 102 and extends away from the brushroll axis A1 (e.g., transverse to the brushroll axis A1 in end 102 and extends away from the brushroll axis A1 (e.g., transverse to the brushroll axis A1 in a radial direction). The arm 118 is supported such that the brushroll 70 is rotatable relative to the a radial direction). The arm 118 is supported such that the brushroll 70 is rotatable relative to the arm118 arm 118during duringoperation. operation. 2024201730

[0026]

[0026] With reference to Figs. 3 and 4, the arm 118 forms an outer surface 134 of the first With reference to Figs. 3 and 4, the arm 118 forms an outer surface 134 of the first

side 54 of the base 12 when the brushroll 70 is coupled to the base 12. The brushroll material side 54 of the base 12 when the brushroll 70 is coupled to the base 12. The brushroll material

110 extends 110 extends adjacent adjacent the the brushroll brushroll firstfirst endsuch end 102 102that suchthethat the brushroll brushroll material material 110 is adjacent 110 is adjacent

the arm 118. In this way, the distance between the outer surface of the first side 54 and the the arm 118. In this way, the distance between the outer surface of the first side 54 and the

brushroll material 110 is a function of the thickness of the arm 118, reducing the distance brushroll material 110 is a function of the thickness of the arm 118, reducing the distance

between the outer surface of the first side 54 and the brushroll material 110 over prior cleaners. between the outer surface of the first side 54 and the brushroll material 110 over prior cleaners.

This reduces This reduces the the distance distance between the brushroll between the brushroll material material 110 and, for 110 and, for example, example, aa wall wall when whenthe the surface cleaner 10 is operating with the first side 54 adjacent the wall and enables a user to clean surface cleaner 10 is operating with the first side 54 adjacent the wall and enables a user to clean

close to a wall. close to a wall.

[0027]

[0027] Referring now Referring nowtotoFigs. Figs. 7-8, 7-8, the the arm 118 includes arm 118 includes aa bore bore or or pocket 122positioned pocket 122 positionedin in an underside or end of the arm, and may be disposed closer to a distal end of the arm 118 than to an underside or end of the arm, and may be disposed closer to a distal end of the arm 118 than to

brushroll axis brushroll axis A1. Thepocket A1. The pocket122 122may maybe be a blind a blind bore bore thatextends that extendspartially partially into into the the arm 118. arm 118.

When the brushroll 70 is coupled to the base 12 and the arm 118 is in the secured position, the When the brushroll 70 is coupled to the base 12 and the arm 118 is in the secured position, the

pocket 122 receives a portion of the base 12 therein to inhibit movement of the brushroll 70 pocket 122 receives a portion of the base 12 therein to inhibit movement of the brushroll 70

along the along the brushroll brushroll axis axis A1. In one A1. In embodiment,thethearm one embodiment, arm 118 118 furtherincludes further includesa arecess recess126 126 disposed between disposed betweenthe thepocket pocket122 122and and thebrushroll the brushrollaxis axisA1. A1.TheThe recess recess 126126 engages engages a portion a portion of of the base 12 when the brushroll 70 is coupled to the base 12 and the arm 118 is in the secured the base 12 when the brushroll 70 is coupled to the base 12 and the arm 118 is in the secured

position to position to prevent prevent movement movement ofofthe thebrushroll brushroll70 70along alongthe thebrushroll brushroll axis axis A1. Finally, the A1. Finally, the arm arm

118 ofthe 118 of theillustrated illustratedembodiment embodiment includes includes a tab a tab or or handle handle 130 to facilitate 130 to facilitate a user the a user grasping grasping the arm118 arm 118toto move movethe thearm armbetween between thethe secured secured andand thethe unsecured unsecured positions. positions.

[0028]

[0028] With reference to Figs. 5-8, the base 12 includes a protrusion 138 that is receivable With reference to Figs. 5-8, the base 12 includes a protrusion 138 that is receivable

within the within the pocket 122 and pocket 122 andaa retaining retaining wall wall 142 engageablewith 142 engageable withthe therecess recess 126 126when when thearm the arm 118 118

5 is in the secured position. The positioning of the protrusion 138 within the pocket 122 and the 15 Mar 2024 is in the secured position. The positioning of the protrusion 138 within the pocket 122 and the retaining wall retaining wall 142 142 outside outside of of the the recess recess126 126 prevents prevents the thebrushroll brushroll70 70from from moving alongthe moving along the brushroll axis brushroll axis A1 whenthe A1 when thearm arm118 118isisinin the the secured secured position. position. Furthermore, Furthermore,the theprotrusion protrusion138 138 and the retaining wall 142 support the arm 118 relative to the base 12 in the secured position so and the retaining wall 142 support the arm 118 relative to the base 12 in the secured position SO that the arm 118 supports the first end 102 of the brushroll 70 relative to the base 12. In the that the arm 118 supports the first end 102 of the brushroll 70 relative to the base 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 12 further includes a secondary latch 144 (Fig. 10) that inhibits illustrated embodiment, the base 12 further includes a secondary latch 144 (Fig. 10) that inhibits upwardmovement upward movement of the of the armarm 118 118 whenwhen the 118 the arm armis118 in is in secured the the secured position. position. In the In the illustrated illustrated 2024201730 embodiment,thethesecondary embodiment, secondary latch144 latch 144 is isa adeformable deformable hook hook that that engages engages a corresponding a corresponding detent detent

145 (Fig. 8) 145 (Fig. 8) on on the the arm arm 118. Thesecondary 118. The secondarylatch latch144 144holds holdsthe thearm arm118 118 when when the the latch latch 74 74

movestotothe moves the unlatched unlatchedposition position when whenthe thecover cover8282isisremoved removed from from thethe base base 12.12.

[0029]

[0029] Referring to Figs. 6 and 9a, the latch 74, shown in an unlocked position, is supported Referring to Figs. 6 and 9a, the latch 74, shown in an unlocked position, is supported

by the base 12 to selectively prevent removal of the brushroll 70. More particularly, the latch 74 by the base 12 to selectively prevent removal of the brushroll 70. More particularly, the latch 74

is disposed closer to the first side 54 of the base 12 than the second side 58 of the base 12 and is disposed closer to the first side 54 of the base 12 than the second side 58 of the base 12 and

movablerelative movable relative to to the the base base 12 12 between the unlocked between the unlockedposition positionwhen when thecover the cover8282 isisremoved removed from the from the base base 12 12 in in which the brushroll which the brushroll 70 70 is is removable fromthe removable from thebase base1212and anda alocked lockedposition position when the cover 82 is attached to the base 12 in which the brushroll 70 is coupled to the base 12 when the cover 82 is attached to the base 12 in which the brushroll 70 is coupled to the base 12

for rotation about the brushroll axis A1. The latch 74, shown in the locked position in Figs. 3 for rotation about the brushroll axis A1. The latch 74, shown in the locked position in Figs. 3

and 9b, and 9b, engages engagesthe the arm arm118 118when whenin in thelocked the lockedposition positiontotomaintain maintainthe thearm arm118 118 inin thesecured the secured position. The position. The latch latch 74 inhibits movement 74 inhibits movement ofofthe thearm arm118 118from from thesecured the secured positiontoward position toward thethe

unsecured position. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 74 is moveable in a direction unsecured position. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 74 is moveable in a direction

parallel to the brushroll axis A1, and the latch 74 is disposed closer to the first side 54 of the base parallel to the brushroll axis A1, and the latch 74 is disposed closer to the first side 54 of the base

12 whenininthe 12 when the locked lockedposition position to to block movement block movement of of thearm the arm 118. 118. In In oneone embodiment, embodiment, the latch the latch

74 is 74 is rotatable rotatablebetween between the the locked locked position position and and unlocked position. unlocked position.

[0030]

[0030] Referring now to Figs. 9a and 9b, the latch 74 includes a catch portion 146 that Referring now to Figs. 9a and 9b, the latch 74 includes a catch portion 146 that

engagesthe engages the arm arm118 118asasthe thelatch latch 74 74 is is moved towardthe moved toward thelocked lockedposition. position.The The catch catch portion146146 portion

is configured is configured to to engage a portion engage a portion of of the thearm arm 118 118 to to prevent prevent movement movement ofof thearm the arm118 118 toward toward thethe

unsecuredposition. unsecured position. InIn one oneembodiment, embodiment,thethe catch catch portion portion 146 146 includes includes a chamfer a chamfer such such that, that, ifif

the arm 118 is not fully in the secured position, the chamfer on the catch portion 146 engages a the arm 118 is not fully in the secured position, the chamfer on the catch portion 146 engages a

correspondingsurface corresponding surfaceononthe thearm arm118 118pressing pressingthe thearm arm118 118 toward toward thethe secured secured position position as as the the

cover 82 presses the latch 74 toward the locked position. The latch 74 further includes a cover 82 presses the latch 74 toward the locked position. The latch 74 further includes a

6 follower 150 that, as will be described in greater detail herein, is engageable by the brushroll 15 Mar 2024 follower 150 that, as will be described in greater detail herein, is engageable by the brushroll cover 82 cover 82 to to move thelatch move the latch 74 74 toward towardthe thelocked lockedposition positionform formthe theunlocked unlockedposition. position.A A spring spring member member oror elasticmember elastic member applies applies a forceononthe a force thelatch latch7474toward towardthe theunlocked unlocked position.The position. The illustrated spring member is a coil spring 154 that pushes the latch 74 toward the unlocked illustrated spring member is a coil spring 154 that pushes the latch 74 toward the unlocked position when position the cover when the cover82 82isis removed. removed.

[0031]

[0031] Movement Movement of of thethe arm arm 118118 between between the the secured secured position position and and the the unsecured unsecured position position 2024201730

mayinclude may includerotation rotation as as shown shownininFig. Fig. 5. 5. In In other other embodiments, movement embodiments, movement of the of the arm arm 118 118 to to the the unsecuredposition unsecured position includes includes rotation rotation and translation. In and translation. In some embodiments, some embodiments, thearm the arm 118 118 is is

configured to translate to the unsecured position. In the illustrated embodiment, the brushroll 70 configured to translate to the unsecured position. In the illustrated embodiment, the brushroll 70

is removable from the base 12 when the arm 118 is in the unsecured position by a user lifting the is removable from the base 12 when the arm 118 is in the unsecured position by a user lifting the

first end 102 of the brushroll 70 away from the base 12 in a vertical direction, releasing the input first end 102 of the brushroll 70 away from the base 12 in a vertical direction, releasing the input

114 of the 114 of the second end 106 second end 106from fromthe theoutput output9090ofofthe the drive drive mechanism mechanism 86 86 andand releasing releasing thethe

brushroll 70 brushroll 70 from the base from the 12. Removal base 12. Removal of of thebrushroll the brushroll7070bybymoving movingthethe firstend first end102 102 vertically enables vertically enables the thebrushroll brushroll70 70totobeberemoved removed from the base from the base 12 12 when thebase when the base12 12isis positioned in positioned in aa drip drip tray tray164 164(Fig. (Fig.11) 11)oror other container other that container may that constrain may brushroll constrain movement brushroll movement

in an axial direction of the brushroll. Such an arrangement enables the drip tray 164 to conform in an axial direction of the brushroll. Such an arrangement enables the drip tray 164 to conform

to the shape of the base reducing size and cost of the drip tray while maintaining the convenience to the shape of the base reducing size and cost of the drip tray while maintaining the convenience

of removing the brushroll while the base 12 is in the drip tray. of removing the brushroll while the base 12 is in the drip tray.

[0032]

[0032] With continued reference to Fig. 9, the brushroll cover 82 is releasably couplable to With continued reference to Fig. 9, the brushroll cover 82 is releasably couplable to

the base 12 to cover a portion of the brushroll 70 during operation of the surface cleaner 10. the base 12 to cover a portion of the brushroll 70 during operation of the surface cleaner 10.

Extending from the brushroll cover 82 is an actuator 158 that cooperates with the latch 74 to Extending from the brushroll cover 82 is an actuator 158 that cooperates with the latch 74 to

movethe move thelatch latch 74 74 toward towardthe thelocked lockedposition positionwhen whenthethebrushroll brushrollcover cover8282isisattached attachedto to the the base base

12. Theactuator 12. The actuator 158 158extends extendsfrom fromthe thebrushroll brushrollcover cover8282toward towardthe thesurface surfacewhen whenthethe brushroll brushroll

cover 82 cover 82 is is coupled to the coupled to the base base 12, 12, and and the the actuator actuator158 158 includes includes aacam cam surface surface 162 162 that that engages engages

the follower 150 to move the latch 74 toward the locked position as the cover 82 is installed. the follower 150 to move the latch 74 toward the locked position as the cover 82 is installed.

Moreparticularly, More particularly, the the cam surface 162 cam surface 162and andthe the follower follower150 150are areoriented oriented such suchthat that movement movement of of

the actuator 158 transverse to the brushroll axis A1 results in movement of the latch 74 in a the actuator 158 transverse to the brushroll axis A1 results in movement of the latch 74 in a

direction along direction along the the brushroll brushroll axis axisA1. A1. As the actuator As the actuator 158 158 moves withthe moves with thecover cover8282toward towardthe the cover’s installed cover's installed position, position,the cam the camsurface surface162 162 engages engages the the follower follower 150 150 and presses the and presses the follower follower

150 andthethelatch 150 and latch74 74 toward toward the first the first sideside 54 of54 ofbase the the 12 base 12the into into the locked locked position position against the against the

7 force of of the the spring spring 154, 154, and and as asthe thecover cover82 82and and the theactuator actuator158 158move awayfrom fromthe thebase base12,the 12,the 15 Mar 2024 force move away actuator 158 actuator disengagesfrom 158 disengages fromthe thefollower follower150 150enabling enablingthe thelatch latch74 74toto move movetoward toward thesecond the second side 58 of the base 12 into the unlocked position by the force of the spring 154. In the illustrated side 58 of the base 12 into the unlocked position by the force of the spring 154. In the illustrated embodiment,thetheactuator embodiment, actuator158 158isisintegrally integrally formed formedwith withthe thebrushroll brushroll cover cover 82 82and andremovable removable from the from the base base 12 12 with with the the brushroll brushroll cover cover 82. In one 82. In one embodiment, embodiment, theactuator the actuator158 158a aseparate separate componentfrom component from thethe cover cover 82.Alternatively 82. Alternativelyororadditionally, additionally,the the actuator actuator 158 remainsononthe 158 remains thebase base 12 whenthe 12 when thecover cover8282isis removed removedfrom from thethe base base 12,actuatable 12, actuatablebybythe thecover cover8282ororbybyuser user 2024201730 interaction. For interaction. For example, Figs. 13a example, Figs. 13a and and 13b 13billustrate illustrate an an embodiment embodiment ininwhich whichthe thecover cover8282does does not include an actuator. Rather, the latch 74 includes is a finger grip 190, instead of a follower not include an actuator. Rather, the latch 74 includes is a finger grip 190, instead of a follower

150, 150, to to be be actuated actuated by by aa user userto tomove move the the latch latch74 74toward toward the the unlocked position. The unlocked position. latch 74 The latch 74

may include a detent (not shown) that engages the base 12 to secure the latch 74 in the locked may include a detent (not shown) that engages the base 12 to secure the latch 74 in the locked

position until the user disengages the detent by applying a force to the finger grip 190. In the position until the user disengages the detent by applying a force to the finger grip 190. In the

illustrated embodiment, the latch 74 is retained in the locked position when the brushroll cover illustrated embodiment, the latch 74 is retained in the locked position when the brushroll cover

82 is 82 is coupled to the coupled to the base base 12, 12, and and the thelatch latch74 74moves moves to to the theunlocked unlocked position position when the brushroll when the brushroll cover 82 cover 82 is is uncoupled fromthe uncoupled from thebase base12. 12.InInone oneembodiment embodimentthe the cover cover forms forms a portion a portion of the of the

fluid flow fluid flow path path in in communication withthe communication with thevacuum vacuum source source 18 18 andand the the debris debris collector22.22.In In collector one one

embodiment embodiment shown shown in Fig. in Fig. thethe 12,12, surfacecleaner surface cleaner10' 10ʹisisaa carpet carpet extractor extractor wherein the cover wherein the 82ʹ cover 82'

is aa suction is suctionnozzle nozzle forming forming the the suction suction inlet inlet66ʹ. 66'.InIn another embodiment, another embodiment, not not shown, the base shown, the base and the cover enclose the brushroll 70 such that the first end 102 is not open to the side, and the and the cover enclose the brushroll 70 such that the first end 102 is not open to the side, and the

suction inlet is formed along the underside of the base beneath the brushroll, such as for suction inlet is formed along the underside of the base beneath the brushroll, such as for

application in application in aa dry dryvacuum cleaner. vacuum cleaner.

[0033]

[0033] With reference to Figs. 3-4, the brushroll cover 82 includes a cover latch 166 that With reference to Figs. 3-4, the brushroll cover 82 includes a cover latch 166 that

selectively secures the brushroll cover 82 to the base 12. An actuator 170 is supported by the selectively secures the brushroll cover 82 to the base 12. An actuator 170 is supported by the

brushroll cover brushroll cover 82 and moveable 82 and moveablebetween between a latched a latched positionininwhich position which thebrushroll the brushrollcover cover8282isis secured to secured to the the base base 12 12 and and an an unlatched position in unlatched position in which the brushroll which the brushroll cover cover 82 82 is is removable removable

from the from the base base 12. 12. The Thecover coverlatch latch166 166isis includes includes aa spring spring or or aa spring spring member thatapplies member that applies aa force on the latch 166 toward the latched position. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover latch force on the latch 166 toward the latched position. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover latch

166 is aa pinch 166 is pinchlatch latchandand is is operable operable independently independently of the of the74latch latch that 74 that secures secures the brushroll the brushroll 70 to 70 to the base 12. the base 12.

8

[0034] The brushroll cover 82 of the illustrated embodiment includes a light 174 to 15 Mar 2024

[0034] The brushroll cover 82 of the illustrated embodiment includes a light 174 to

illuminate the illuminate the surface surface during during operation operation of of the thesurface surfacecleaner cleaner10. 10.The The light light174 174 isispowered powered by by

the surface the surface cleaner cleaner 10 10 when the cover when the cover 82 82is is coupled to the coupled to the base base 12 12 and is removable and is fromthe removable from the base 12 with the brushroll cover 82. The base 12 includes a first electrical connector 178, and base 12 with the brushroll cover 82. The base 12 includes a first electrical connector 178, and

the brushroll cover 82 includes a second electrical connector 182. The first and second electrical the brushroll cover 82 includes a second electrical connector 182. The first and second electrical

connectors 178, connectors 178, 182 182are areoperably operablycoupled coupledtotoone oneanother anotherwhen whenthethe brushrollcover brushroll cover 8282 is iscoupled coupled to the base 12. Therefore, when the brushroll cover 82 is coupled to the base 12, an electrical to the base 12. Therefore, when the brushroll cover 82 is coupled to the base 12, an electrical 2024201730

connection exists between the base 12 and the brushroll cover 82 so that the surface cleaner 10 is connection exists between the base 12 and the brushroll cover 82 SO that the surface cleaner 10 is

operable to power the light 174. operable to power the light 174.

[0035]

[0035] Toremove To removethe thebrushroll brushroll7070from fromthe thesurface surfacecleaner cleaner10, 10,an anoperator operatorfirst first removes the removes the

brushroll cover brushroll cover 82 by releasing 82 by releasing the the cover cover latch latch 166. 166. The brushroll 70 The brushroll is not 70 is not removable fromthe removable from the base 12 base 12 when whenthe thebrushroll brushrollcover cover8282isis coupled coupledtoto the the base base 12. 12. The Thebrushroll brushrollcover cover8282does doesnot not directly engage directly the brushroll engage the brushroll 70 70 to to secure secure the thebrushroll brushroll70 70toto thethebase 12.12.However, base However, removal of removal of

the brushroll cover 82 allows the latch 74 to move to the unlocked position. More particularly, the brushroll cover 82 allows the latch 74 to move to the unlocked position. More particularly,

removalofofthe removal the brushroll brushroll cover 82 disengages cover 82 disengagesthe the actuator actuator 158 158from fromthe thelatch latch 74 74 and andallows allowsthe the spring 154 spring to move 154 to thelatch move the latch 74 74 toward towardthe theunlocked unlockedposition positionininwhich whichthe thelatch latch 74 74is is not not

engagedwith engaged withthe thearm arm118. 118.TheThe operator operator then then moves moves the the arm arm 118 118 from from the secured the secured position position (Fig. (Fig.

3) to the unsecured position (Fig. 5) to disengage the secondary latch 144 and de-couple the 3) to the unsecured position (Fig. 5) to disengage the secondary latch 144 and de-couple the

protrusion 138 protrusion fromthe 138 from the pocket pocket122 122and andthe theretaining retainingwall wall142 142from fromthe therecess recess126. 126.Once Oncethethe

arm 118 is rotated to the unsecured position, the brushroll 70 is removable from the base 12. arm 118 is rotated to the unsecured position, the brushroll 70 is removable from the base 12.

Moreparticularly, More particularly, the the operator operator is isthen thenable abletoto move move the thebrushroll brushroll70 70away away from the second from the side second side

58 of 58 of the the base base 12 12 to to disengage disengage the the input input 114 114 from the output from the output 90. In the 90. In the illustrated illustratedembodiment, embodiment,

the operator removes the brushroll 70 by lifting the first end 102 of the brushroll 70 vertically the operator removes the brushroll 70 by lifting the first end 102 of the brushroll 70 vertically

awayfrom away fromthe thebase base12. 12.

[0036]

[0036] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail with reference to certain Although the present disclosure has been described in detail with reference to certain

preferred embodiments, preferred variationsand embodiments, variations andmodifications modificationsexist existwithin withinthe thescope scopeand andspirit spirit of of one one or or

moreindependent more independentaspects aspectsofofthe thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure as as described. described.

[0037]

[0037] Various features and advantages of the present disclosure are set forth in the Various features and advantages of the present disclosure are set forth in the

following claims. following claims.

9

Claims (23)

CLAIMS 15 Mar 2024 CLAIMS Theclaims The claims defining defining the the invention invention are asare as follows: follows:

1. 1. A surface A surface cleaner cleaner comprising: comprising: a handle a configured to handle configured to move movethe thesurface surfacecleaner cleaneralong alongaa surface; surface; a debris collector; a debris collector;

a vacuum a sourceoperable vacuum source operabletotogenerate generatea asuction suctionairflow airflowalong alongaafluid fluid flow flow path path from fromaa 2024201730

suction inlet to the debris collector; suction inlet to the debris collector;

a base coupled to the handle, the base movable over the surface to be cleaned by the a base coupled to the handle, the base movable over the surface to be cleaned by the

handle, the base including, handle, the base including,

the suction the suction inlet inletininfluid communication fluid communication with with the the vacuum sourceand vacuum source andthe thedebris debris collector, collector,

a brushroll removably coupled to the base and rotatable about a brushroll axis, a brushroll removably coupled to the base and rotatable about a brushroll axis,

and and

a brushroll cover releasably coupled to the base, a brushroll cover releasably coupled to the base,

a latch a latch movable betweenananunlocked movable between unlocked positionininwhich position whichthethe brushrollisisremovable brushroll removable from the base and a locked position in which the brushroll is coupled to the base for from the base and a locked position in which the brushroll is coupled to the base for

rotation about the brushroll axis, rotation about the brushroll axis,

whereinthe wherein the brushroll brushroll cover cover includes includes an an actuator actuator that that moves the latch moves the latch from from the the unlocked unlocked

position toward position the locked toward the position when locked position thebrushroll when the brushroll cover cover is is attached attached to to base base such such that thatwhen when

the brushroll cover is coupled to the base, the latch is retained in the locked position by the the brushroll cover is coupled to the base, the latch is retained in the locked position by the

actuator to prevent removal of the brushroll, and actuator to prevent removal of the brushroll, and

wherein, when wherein, whenthe thebrushroll brushrollcover coverisis uncoupled uncoupledfrom fromthe thebase, base,the thelatch latch moves movestotothe the unlocked position such that the brushroll is removable from the base. unlocked position such that the brushroll is removable from the base.

2. 2. The surface cleaner of claim 1, wherein the brushroll has a first end and a second end The surface cleaner of claim 1, wherein the brushroll has a first end and a second end

opposite the first end, the brushroll axis extending through the first end and the second end, opposite the first end, the brushroll axis extending through the first end and the second end,

whereinan wherein anarm armisis coupled coupledtotothe the first first end end of ofthe thebrushroll brushrolland andthe arm the armisis movable movable between a between a

secured position secured position in in which the arm which the inhibits removal arm inhibits of the removal of the brushroll brushroll from from the the base base and and an an

unsecuredposition unsecured position in in which whichthe the brushroll brushroll is is removable fromthe removable from thebase. base.

10

3. The surface cleaner of claim 2, wherein, when the brushroll cover is coupled to the base 15 Mar 2024

3. The surface cleaner of claim 2, wherein, when the brushroll cover is coupled to the base

and the latch is in the locked position, the latch inhibits movement of the arm from the secured and the latch is in the locked position, the latch inhibits movement of the arm from the secured

position toward position the unsecured toward the unsecuredposition. position.

4. 4. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof claims claims22through through3,3, wherein whereinthe thebase base includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein, when the brushroll is includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein, when the brushroll is

coupled to the base, the first side of the brushroll is disposed adjacent the first side of the base coupled to the base, the first side of the brushroll is disposed adjacent the first side of the base 2024201730

and the second side of the brushroll is adjacent the second side of the base, and wherein, when and the second side of the brushroll is adjacent the second side of the base, and wherein, when

the brushroll is coupled to the base, the arm forms an outer surface of the first side of the base. the brushroll is coupled to the base, the arm forms an outer surface of the first side of the base.

5. 5. The surface cleaner of claim 4, wherein the brushroll includes a brushroll material The surface cleaner of claim 4, wherein the brushroll includes a brushroll material

disposed on an outer surface of the brushroll, the brushroll material extending between the first disposed on an outer surface of the brushroll, the brushroll material extending between the first

end of the brushroll and the second end of the brushroll such that, when the brushroll is coupled end of the brushroll and the second end of the brushroll such that, when the brushroll is coupled

to the base, the brushroll material extends adjacent the arm and the first side of the base. to the base, the brushroll material extends adjacent the arm and the first side of the base.

6. 6. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof claims claims22 through through4,4, wherein, wherein,the the arm arm includes a pocket, wherein the base includes a protrusion, and wherein the protrusion is received includes a pocket, wherein the base includes a protrusion, and wherein the protrusion is received

within the pocket when the arm is in the secured position to inhibit removal of the brushroll. within the pocket when the arm is in the secured position to inhibit removal of the brushroll.

7. 7. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof claims claims22through through6,6, wherein whereinthe thebase base includes aa secondary includes latch that secondary latch that inhibits inhibitsmovement of the movement of the arm armwhen whenthe thearm armisisininthe the secured secured position. position.

8. 8. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof the the preceding precedingclaims, claims, wherein whereinthe themovement movement of the of the arm arm between thesecured between the securedposition position and andthe the unsecured unsecuredposition positionincludes includesrotation. rotation.

9. 9. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof the the preceding precedingclaims, claims, wherein whereinthe theactuator actuator extends from extends fromthe the brushroll brushroll cover cover toward towardthe thesurface surface to to be be cleaned whenthe cleaned when thebrushroll brushrollcover coverisis coupled to the base. coupled to the base.

11

10. The surface cleaner according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator is 15 Mar 2024

10. The surface cleaner according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator is

integrally formed integrally with the formed with the brushroll brushroll cover cover and and removable fromthe removable from thebase basewith withthe thebrushroll brushrollcover. cover.

11. 11. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof the the preceding precedingclaims, claims, wherein whereinthe theactuator actuator includes aa cam includes surface that cam surface that engages the latch engages the latch to to move the latch move the latch from from the the unlocked position unlocked position

toward the locked position as the brushroll cover is coupled to the base. toward the locked position as the brushroll cover is coupled to the base. 2024201730

12. 12. The surface cleaner of claim 11, wherein the latch includes a follower that engages the The surface cleaner of claim 11, wherein the latch includes a follower that engages the

camsurface cam surfacesuch suchthat that movement movement of of thetheactuator actuatorinduces inducesmovement movement of the of the latch latch from from the the

unlocked position toward the locked position when the brushroll cover is attached to the base. unlocked position toward the locked position when the brushroll cover is attached to the base.

13. 13. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner of of claim 12, wherein claim 12, the follower wherein the follower and andthe the cam camsurface surfaceare areoriented oriented such that movement of the actuator in a direction transverse to the brushroll axis results in such that movement of the actuator in a direction transverse to the brushroll axis results in

movement of the latch in a direction parallel to the brushroll axis when the brushroll cover is movement of the latch in a direction parallel to the brushroll axis when the brushroll cover is

coupled to the base. coupled to the base.

14. 14. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneclaims claims22through through13, 13,wherein whereinthe thebase baseincludes includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the brushroll includes a first end a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the brushroll includes a first end

positioned adjacent the first side of the base and a second end positioned adjacent the second side positioned adjacent the first side of the base and a second end positioned adjacent the second side

of the base when the brushroll is coupled to the base, the brushroll axis extending through the of the base when the brushroll is coupled to the base, the brushroll axis extending through the

first end of the brushroll and the second end of the brushroll, and wherein the latch moves along first end of the brushroll and the second end of the brushroll, and wherein the latch moves along

the brushroll axis from the second side of the base toward the first side of the base when moved the brushroll axis from the second side of the base toward the first side of the base when moved

fromthe from the unlocked unlockedposition positiontoward towardthe thelocked lockedposition. position.

15. 15. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof claims claims11 11through through14, 14,wherein whereinthe thelatch latch includes aa catch includes catch portion portion that thatengages engages the the arm arm when the latch when the latch moves fromthe moves from theunlocked unlocked position position

towardthe toward the locked lockedposition position to to move thearm move the armtoward towardthethesecured securedposition. position.

16. 16. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof claims claims22 through through15, 15,wherein whereinthe thesurface surface cleaner includes cleaner includes a a drive drive mechanism, whereinthe mechanism, wherein thebrushroll brushrollisis coupled coupledtoto the the drive drive mechanism mechanism

when the brushroll is coupled to the base such that the brushroll is rotatable about the brushroll when the brushroll is coupled to the base such that the brushroll is rotatable about the brushroll

12 axis by by the the drive drive mechanism, andwherein whereinthethedrive drivemechanism mechanism is disposed on on an opposite side 15 Mar 2024 axis mechanism, and is disposed an opposite side of the base as the latch. of the base as the latch.

17. 17. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof the the preceding precedingclaims, claims, wherein whereinthe thebrushroll brushroll cover includes a cover latch to selectively secure the brushroll cover to the base, wherein the cover includes a cover latch to selectively secure the brushroll cover to the base, wherein the

cover latch cover latch includes includes an an actuator actuator movable betweena alatched movable between latchedposition positioninin which whichthe thebrushroll brushroll cover cover is secured is secured to to the thebase baseand and an an unlatched unlatched position position in inwhich which the the brushroll brushrollcover coverisisremovable removable from from 2024201730

the base. the base.

18. 18. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof the the preceding precedingclaims, claims, wherein whereinthe thebrushroll brushroll cover does not directly engage the brushroll to secure the brushroll to the base. cover does not directly engage the brushroll to secure the brushroll to the base.

19. 19. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner of of claim claim 18, 18, wherein whenthe wherein when thebrushroll brushrollcover coverisis coupled coupledtoto the the base, base, the brushroll is not removable from the base. the brushroll is not removable from the base.

20. 20. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof the the preceding precedingclaims, claims, further further comprising comprising aa

spring member spring thatapplies member that appliesaaforce force on on the the latch latch toward the unlocked toward the position. unlocked position.

21. 21. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof the the preceding precedingclaims, claims, wherein whereinthe thebrushroll brushroll cover includes a light, wherein the base includes a first electrical connector, wherein the cover includes a light, wherein the base includes a first electrical connector, wherein the

brushroll cover includes a second electrical connector operably couplable to the first electrical brushroll cover includes a second electrical connector operably couplable to the first electrical

connector, and connector, and wherein whereinthe thelight light is is powered byaa power powered by powersource sourceofofthe thesurface surfacecleaner cleaner when whenthe the brushroll cover is coupled to the base and the first electric connector is operably coupled to the brushroll cover is coupled to the base and the first electric connector is operably coupled to the

second electrical connector. second electrical connector.

22. 22. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof the the preceding precedingclaims, claims, wherein whereinthe thecover cover forms a portion of the fluid flow path. forms a portion of the fluid flow path.

23. 23. Thesurface The surface cleaner cleaner according accordingtoto any anyone oneofof the the preceding precedingclaims, claims, wherein whereinthe thecover cover includes the suction inlet. includes the suction inlet.

13