Patent ID: 8028372
Filing Date: 2011-10-04
Classification: E01H

Abstract:
1. A blower/vacuum device including: a base to move over a surface to which the device is to cause an airstream to pass over; at least one wheel fixed to the base to engage the surface to aid a user to move the device over the surface, the wheel having an axis of rotation; a handle attached to the base and extending away from the base in a direction of extension generally normal to said axis, the handle being adapted to be gripped by the user so that the user may direct the device over the surface by rotation of said wheel; a motor and impeller assembly to cause air to pass through the device, said assembly having a generally vertical rotational axis; a first duct extending to said assembly to deliver air thereto; a reservoir to store material collected by the device; a second duct, said second duct extending away from said assembly to the reservoir to deliver air thereto together with any material passing through the first duct to said assembly; a third duct extending away from said assembly; a valve downstream of said assembly to direct air therefrom to said second duct or said third duct, said valve including a movable valve member that is pivotal about a generally vertical axis to direct the air from said first duct to said second duct or said third duct; and wherein said first duct has an inlet opening at a forward portion of said base, and said third duct has an outlet opening at said forward portion.